Jeffries To Meet With Jewish Constituents Tonight
Central Brooklyn Congressman Hakeem Jeffries will meet and discuss the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, also know as the Iran Nuclear Accord, with his Jewish constituents tonight.
The Brooklyn Jewish organizations sponsoring the event include the Flatbush Community Council Coalition, The Jewish Community Council of Canarsie, the Jewish Community Council of Marine Park, the Crown Heights Jewish Community Council and the Russian American Jewish Experience. Additional sponsors include the national Agudath Israel of America and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee.
A large majority of Brooklyn’s American Jews oppose the pact as they feel it is against both American and Israel security interests. In order for Obama to sign the accord, it needs approval of at least one more vote than a third of Congress, and Brooklyn’s Jewish organization are strongly lobbying Jeffries and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke – both with strong ties to President Obama to vote against it. Both federal lawmakers have large Jewish constituencies.
Jeffires recently quipped to KCP that he is keeping an open mind as he studies the accord and speaks with his constituents. Recently, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, who lives in Brooklyn, broke with the Democratic Party and voted against it.
The Town Hall meeting on the issue is slated for 7:30 p.m., tonight, Aug. 11 at the Flatbush Park Jewish Center 6363 Ave. U.
De Blasio Sign Bills Co-Naming Thoroughfares For Brooklynites
Mayor Bill de Blasio, yesterday, signed into law the co-naming of 51 thoroughfares and public places – including a good many in Brooklyn – for people, events and institutions that have marked the history of New York City and helped strengthen their communities.
Below are comments from Brooklyn lawmakers about thoroughfares in their districts that received co-naming:
Bedford-Stuyvesant City Councilman Robert Cornegy Jr.: “My Bedford-Stuyvesant has a big personality. We love the arts, we love our culture and we love community-minded people. The creation of Do The Right Thing Way and Det. Clarence M. Surgeon Way, one unique co-naming and the other traditional, exemplifies these shared values. I’m so proud to join with Spike Lee, the Surgeon family, and all my constituents in continuing this great tradition of community self-determination.”
Fort Greene/Prospect Heights City Councilwoman Laurie Cumbo: “For nearly 80 years, New Yorkers have frequented Tom’s Restaurant in Prospect Heights for its good food, warm smiles, and stellar customer service exemplified by the late Gus Vlahavas and his staff. Founded in 1936, this popular eatery has preserved the unique identity, charm, and history of its surrounding community over the past several decades. Today, thousands of hungry diners continue to wait on line for its classic menu including the infamous egg creams. The co-naming of Sterling Place to Gus Vlahavas Place, which I proudly spearheaded, will serve as a lasting tribute to a man who will forever be remembered as a strong pillar of the small business community in Brooklyn.”
Northern Brooklyn City Councilman Stephen Levin: “Briana Ojeda’s passing was a tragic shock to her family and her community. I am proud to honor her memory with this co-naming.”
Mill Basin/Marine Park City Councilman Alan Maisel: “Peter Piccininni was a dedicated, community-minded man who helped to improve the lives of so many people through the Kings Plaza Kiwanis and other organizations. This most fitting honor will serve as a reminder of the strong legacy he left and his love for the community.”
Coney Island City Councilman Mark Treyger: “Our city’s greatest strengths include those individuals who make their community better for others and leave a positive, unique legacy through their actions and words. Co-naming a public street in honor of these great New Yorkers is a fitting tribute and a way to ensure that their efforts are remembered and appreciated by future generations. There is no question that community activist and business leader Lou Powsner, world-renowned photographer Seth Kushner and spiritual leader Father Connie Mobley all made an indelible impression on countless lives throughout southern Brooklyn and beyond, and truly deserve this recognition. I am proud to be part of this effort to co-name local streets in thanks for the lasting impact these New Yorkers had on our community and city.”
Flatlands City Councilman Jumaane Williams: “Catherine McAuley High School was a beacon in the East Flatbush community for decades, known for its academic excellence and positive community impact. Named after Mother Catherine Elizabeth McAuley who exemplified public service, the all-girls’ Catholic high school was designated a Nationally Recognized School of Excellence – the first and only in my district. Though it closed in 2013, I am proud that it will forever live on by co-naming East 37th Street and Foster Avenue ‘Catherine McAuley High School Way.’”
Felder Promotes Bike Safety In His District
In light of the New York Business Journal finding the 66th Police Precinct among the most dangerous places in New York City for bike riders, Borough Park State Sen. Simcha Felder is launching a campaign aimed at increasing bike safety and awareness in the community.
“I am deeply concerned that there are so many bicyclists being injured in my community,” said Felder. “Thank G-d there are many active children in the community who love riding their bikes and having fun outdoors. However, we must stress to our children the importance of being safe while also having fun.”
The initiative includes Felder partnering with BINA Stroke and Brain Injury Assistance to start a ‘Wear a Helmet’ Campaign to promote bike safety. “Wearing a helmet is such an easy thing to do, and it is also required by law. We should work together to teach our children safety in a fun, enjoyable, way,” said the lawmaker.
Additionally, beginning Sunday, August 30 to Friday, September 4, any child or teenager wearing a helmet while riding a bike may pick up a coupon for a free Klein’s ice cream or ices from the following participating neighborhood toy stores: Toys 4 You – 4510 13th Ave., Linicks – 4811 13th Ave., Double Play – 4115 14th Ave., Tree House – 5210 16th Ave., Toys 2 Discover – 5504 18th Ave. and Totally Toys – 1435 Coney Island Ave.
The coupons can then be redeemed at the Safety Sunday Extravaganza on Sunday, September 6 from 1–4 p.m.at the Boro Park Ice Cream House, 2 Church Avenue.
The event will feature entertainment and special appearances by the New York Police Department, Fire Department, Hatzolah, Shomrim, and others. Children will be treated to balloons and a magician along with clowns and free prizes.
William FlatPoP Festival Continues Tonight
Flatlands City Council Member Jumaane Williams, tonight, will continue co-hosting the Third Annual “FlatPoP! Summer Movie Series: Old School Movie Night” with caribBEING at Amersfort Park on Avenue I between East 38th St and East 39th Street.
FlatPop, which runs through the end of the month, features much more than just films, and includes live music, contests, refreshments and more.
Tonights movie is the 1985 martial arts musical “The Last Dragon” with a special guest appearance by The Last Dragon’s star Taimak Guarriello in honor of the film’s 30th anniversary. Prior to the screening, Council Member Williams will present Taimak with a special honor, and Canarsie’s own Pierre Family- martial artists Brandon, Aniesha and Woodlyn Pierre -will provide a self-defense demonstration.
Co-hosts include GMACC Inc.’s Shanduke McPhatter and is co-sponsored by Sesame Flyers, Assembly Members N. Nick Perry and Helene Weinstein, New York Mets, New York Aquarium, Citizens Committee for NYC, and Con Ed. Light refreshments will be provided, but be sure to bring your own blanket and chairs.
The event is subject to change depending on the weather. For more information, contact Farah Louis-Drayton, Director of Community Outreach for Council Member Williams at (718) 629-2900, or caribBeing’s Shelley Worrell athello@caribbeing.com.
