12 BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP • SEPTEMBER 2 - SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 14 BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP • MARCH 6 GO BACK TO THE editorial A LOOK BACK compiled Gary Nilsen and Photo by Gardiner Anderson And the award goes to… Bay Ridge, which has provided the backdrop for many movies and television shows over the years, from “Blue Bloods” and “Saturday Night Fever” to “Mad Men” and, in 2006, to “Then She Found Me,” starring Helen Hunt and Bette Midler, seen above in a September, 2006, Home Reporter photo taken on location on Shore Road at 77th Street. Midler performed at the most recent Oscars, singing “Wind Beneath My Wings” during the awards show’s In Memoriam segment. “Then She Found Me,” which also starred Matthew Broderick, was also shot inside a historic home on 88th Street. (USPS 248.800) 14 BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP • MARCH 6 - MARCH 12, 2014 editorial A LOOK BACK compiled by GO BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD B20E R- M 1A4 R- CNHO V26E,M 2B0E14R •2 0B,R 2O01O3K • LBYRNO OMKELDYINAM GERDOIAUGPR OUP ▲ MNAORVCEHM B20E R- M 1A4 R- CNHO V26E,M 2B0E14R •2 0B,R 2O01O3K • LBYRNO OMKELDYINAM GERDOIAUGPR OUP ▲ Would you support the Education Investment Tax MNAORVCEHM NOVEMBER 14 - NOVEMBER 20, 2013 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ guest op-ed guest op-ed NOVEMBER 14 - NOVEMBER 20, 2013 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ guest op-ed guest op-ed JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2014 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2014 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ “Bridge the gap” guest op-ed “Bridge the gap” guest op-ed NOVEMBER 14 - NOVEMBER 20, 2013 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ guest op-ed Veteran status now available on NYS driver’s licenses Veteran status now available on NYS driver’s licenses NOVEMBER 14 - NOVEMBER 20, 2013 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ our “Hall Making guest op-ed HOMEREPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS BY COUNCILMEMBER VINCENT GENTILE BY COUNCILMEMBER VINCENT GENTILE BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER BY ALAN MAISEL BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER ALAN MAISEL What do you think about What do the you dog think ban at about Shore the Road dog Park ban at at BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER FELIX W. ORTIZ What’s your favorite part BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER ALAN MAISEL What do you think about the dog ban at Shore It’s wrong. Veteran Last week in the City Council, (Estab. 1953) Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and I introduced a resolution calling upon the Metropolitan Transit Authority to consider the impact of the current pricing scheme on the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge on both the residents of Brooklyn and Staten Island – contending that it is crucial that any decision regarding the pricing of bridges and tunnels in New York City include an impact analysis for residents on both sides of the span. The Verrazano serves as the primary connection for motorists traveling between Brooklyn and Staten Island. There was a time when I drove across the Verrazano nearly every day back when I represented parts of Staten Island as a member of the New York State Senate. I still have friends, family, favorite restaurants and places I often visit on the “other side” of the Verrazano. HOMEREPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS Change to 2015 ▲ NOVEMBER 14 - NOVEMBER 20, 2013 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ ▲ Gary Nilsen and Helen Klein (Estab. 1953) (USPS 248.800) 9733 FOURTH AVE. • BROOKLYN, NY 11209 Co-Publisher ... Victoria Schneps-Yunis In February, Governor Andrew Co-Publisher ... Joshua A. Schneps Cuomo announced a plan to reduce the toll on the Verrazano for residents in Staten Island, and the MTA board adopted an action item to increase the rebate available to Staten Islanders. Editor in Chief ... Helen Klein Telephone 718-238-6600 Fax 718-238-6630 E-mail [email protected] Periodical postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Published weekly by Brooklyn Media Group, Inc. Single copies, 50 cents. $35 per year by mail, $40 outside Brooklyn. On June 8, 1962, the Bay Ridge Home Reporter (founded 1953) and the Brooklyn Sunset News, a continuation of the Bay Ridge News (founded 1943) were merged into the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS. street talk According to the MTA, the reason Postmaster: Send Address Changes To: for the increased rebate is that Staten Island residents are uniquely disadvantaged in that the Verrazano Home Reporter and Sunset News 9733 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, N.Y. 11209 Entire contents copyright 2014 by Home Reporter and Sunset News All letters sent to the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS should be brief and are subject to condensing. Writers should include a full address and home and office telephone numbers, where available, street talk as well as affiliation, indicating special interest. Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request. I think it’s unfair. You should be allowed to be there before 9 a.m. It’s a giant field. A lot of people LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, AS WELL AS OP-ED PIECES IN NO WAY REFLECT THE PAPER’S POSITION. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without prior permission of the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS. The publishers will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS within five days of publication. Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication. Brooklyn Media Group, Inc. assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS and its employees harmless from all cost, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication or recording placed by the advertiser or any reply to such advertisement. Photo by Gardiner Anderson And the award goes to… Bay Ridge, which has provided the backdrop for many movies and television shows over the years, from “Blue Bloods” and “Saturday Night Fever” to “Mad Men” and, in 2006, to “Then She Found Me,” starring Helen Hunt and Bette Midler, seen above in a September, 2006, Home Reporter photo taken on location on Shore Road at 77th Street. Midler performed at the most recent Oscars, singing “Wind Beneath My Wings” during the awards show’s In Memoriam segment. “Then She Found Me,” which also starred Matthew Broderick, was also shot inside a historic home on 88th Street. MNAORVCEHM B20E R- M 1A4 R- CNHO V26E,M 2B0E14R •2 0B,R 2O01O3K • LBYRNO OMKELDYINAM GERDOIAUGPR OUP ▲ guest op-ed guest op-ed JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2014 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ “Bridge the gap” guest op-ed Helping Veteran status the people now available of central Italy on NYS in driver’s their time licenses of need BY COUNCILMEMBER VINCENT GENTILE NOVEMBER 14 - NOVEMBER 20, 2013 • BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP ▲ HALL Incidents of graffiti our readers, to submit “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a for induction Send all high resolution and a contact Help us take our Making guest op-ed BY COUNCILMEMBER VINCENT GENTILE ASSEMBLYMEMBER ALAN MAISEL BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER ALAN MAISEL What do you think about the dog ban at Shore BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER FELIX W. ORTIZ BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER FELIX W. ORTIZ What’s your favorite part of the BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER ALAN MAISEL What do you think about the dog ban at Shore Road Veteran status Veteran now status available now available on NYS driver’s licenses Maybe they Bridge is their Last sole means week of in vehicular access to the rest of New York City. Last week in the City Council, the City Council, While the plan may result in Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and I introduced a resolution calling upon the Metropolitan Transit Authority to consider the impact of the current pricing scheme on the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge on both the residents of Brooklyn and Staten Island – contending that it is crucial that any decision regarding the pricing of bridges and tunnels in New York City include an impact analysis for residents on both sides of the span. Bridge is their sole means of vehicular access to the rest of New York City. Bridge is their sole means of vehicular access to the rest of New York City. While the plan may result in Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and I introduced a resolution calling upon the Metropolitan Transit Authority to consider the impact of the current pricing scheme on the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge on both the residents of Brooklyn and Staten Island – contending that it is crucial that any decision regarding the pricing of bridges and tunnels in New York City include an impact analysis for residents on both sides of the span. meaningful relief for Staten Islanders, it fails to recognize the importance of the Verrazano to Brooklynites who travel to Staten Island and New Jersey. That said, I have always believed Staten Islanders deserve toll discounts due to their unique travel burdens. This is not the issue that Brooklyn Borough President Adams and I are addressing. The issue is the burden Brooklynites face in getting onto Staten Island! When we say we want a fair toll in Brooklyn, we’re talking about visiting our families, going to school, getting to work, seeing our grandparents and paying respects at the graves of our dead. While the plan may result in meaningful relief for Staten Islanders, it fails to recognize the importance of the Verrazano to Brooklynites who travel to Staten Island and New Jersey. That said, I have always believed Staten Islanders deserve toll discounts due to their unique travel burdens. This is not the issue that Brooklyn Borough President Adams and I are addressing. The issue is the burden Brooklynites face in getting onto Staten Island! When we say we want a fair toll in Brooklyn, we’re talking about visiting our families, going to school, getting to work, seeing our grandparents and paying respects at the graves of our dead. BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER ALAN MAISEL meaningful relief for Staten Islanders, it fails to recognize the importance of the Verrazano to Brooklynites who travel to Staten Island and New Jersey. That said, I have always believed Staten Islanders deserve toll discounts due to their unique travel burdens. This is not the issue that Brooklyn Borough President Adams and I are addressing. The issue is the burden Brooklynites face in getting onto Staten Island! When we say we want a fair toll in Brooklyn, we’re talking about visiting our families, going to school, getting to work, seeing our grandparents and paying respects at the graves of our dead. What do you think about the dog ban at Shore Road BY ASSEMBLYMEMBER BY ALAN MAISEL What do you think about the dog ban at Shore Each day, thousands of people depend on SUNY Downstate Medical Center for emergency medical care and vital health care services. But this state-operated public hospital has been in danger of being closed or privatized for more than two years. Hundreds of jobs have been lost, and numerous health The care services Verrazano have been serves cut or as curtailed the due to the hospital’s ill-prepared “Sustainability Plan.” Now, there is language in the 2014-15 proposed state budget that would open the door to as many as five corporations The Verrazano serves as the primary connection for motorists traveling between Brooklyn and Staten Island. There was a time when I drove across the Verrazano nearly every day back when I represented parts of Staten Island as a member of the New York State Senate. I still have friends, family, favorite restaurants and places I often visit on the “other side” of the Verrazano. primary connection for motorists traveling between Brooklyn and Staten Island. There was a time when I drove across the Verrazano nearly every day back when I represented parts of Staten Island as a member of the New York State Senate. I still have friends, family, favorite restaurants and places I often visit on the “other side” of the Verrazano. to operate SUNY’s public hospitals. United University Professions, the union that represents nearly 3,000 employees at SUNY Downstate, has been fighting to keep SUNY Downstate a fully operational staterun Ever since the Verrazano was built, ASSEMBLYMEMBER ALAN MAISEL Ever since the Verrazano was built, Brooklyn and Staten Island have enjoyed a symbiotic relationship, connected by much more than a bridge. But that relationship will likely end if our tolls rise to $20 in the next few years. Ever since the Verrazano was built, Brooklyn and Staten Island have enjoyed a symbiotic relationship, connected by much more than a bridge. But that relationship will likely end if our tolls rise to $20 in the next few years. facility. However, UUP isn’t fighting the battle alone. The SUNY Downstate Coalition of Faith, Labor and Community Leaders has become an important ally. The coalition has staged a number of rallies and protests over the past 18 months to save health care services and jobs at SUNY Downstate and keep it a public facility. The latest such effort is a 48-hour interfaith fast. It will begin Sunday, March 9, at 3 p.m., in front of Downstate’s 470 Clarkson Avenue entrance. Interfaith leaders and members of the community will participate to show their strong support for this beacon in Brooklyn and call attention to the threats it faces. You can take part in the fast or find out more about it by calling 718-270-1519, or sending an email to [email protected]. We strongly urge you to join our campaign. Take part in the fast, or come out and show your support. Together, we can deliver a strong message that SUNY Downstate must remain a full-service, state-operated public hospital. The threats facing SUNY Downstate are real. The SUNY Board of Trustees has openly discussed the possibility We’re not asking that Staten In February, Governor Andrew In February, Governor Andrew Island’s discount be taken away or reduced; what we are asking for is some relief on the other side of the bridge so that the toll burdens on Brooklyn are also recognized and so we can keep up the relationship we’ve built with Staten Island. City Councilmember Vincent Gentile represents the 43rd Council District. Cuomo announced a plan to reduce the toll on the Verrazano for residents in Staten Island, and the MTA board adopted an action item to increase the rebate available to Staten Islanders. Cuomo announced a plan to reduce the toll on the Verrazano for residents in Staten Island, and the MTA board adopted an action item to increase the rebate available to Staten Islanders. According to the MTA, the reason According to the MTA, the reason for the increased rebate is that Staten Island residents are uniquely disadvantaged in that the Verrazano Brooklyn and Staten Island have enjoyed a symbiotic relationship, connected by much more than a bridge. But that relationship will likely end if our tolls rise to $20 in the next few years. We’re not asking that Staten We’re not asking that Staten Island’s discount be taken away or reduced; what we are asking for is some relief on the other side of the bridge so that the toll burdens on Brooklyn are also recognized and so we can keep up the relationship we’ve built with Staten Island. City Councilmember Vincent Gentile represents the 43rd Council District. for the increased rebate is that Staten Island residents are uniquely disadvantaged in that the Verrazano street talk of closing SUNY Downstate. There is also language in the Executive Budget, which would allow corporations to control SUNY’s public hospitals; one corporation must affiliate with an academic medical institution or teaching hospital. SUNY Downstate has Brooklyn’s only teaching hospital. Privatizing or closing SUNY Downstate as a way for the state to save dollars is shortsighted and unnecessary. We believe the answer to Brooklyn’s health care shortcomings 76th Street Third lies in the “Brooklyn Hospitals Safety Net Plan,” a UUP-backed initiative to stabilize and deliver health care throughout Brooklyn. This plan would preserve SUNY Downstate and save several financially unstable hospitals in Brooklyn, including Interfaith Medical Center, Brookdale, Long Island College Hospital and Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center. You can see the proposal online at http://www.brooklynhospitalplan.org. It calls for the creation of a network of satellite ambulatory Avenue 76th Street and Third Avenue care centers, and would be controlled by and affiliated with 14 other Brooklyn hospitals. Downstate would Island’s discount be taken away or reduced; what we are asking for is some relief on the other side of the bridge so that the toll burdens on Brooklyn are also recognized and so we can keep up the relationship we’ve built with Staten Island. City Councilmember Vincent Gentile represents the 43rd Council District. be the network’s hub, educating and supplying physicians and medical staff to the care centers and working with doctors at the other hospitals. It’s a simple, effective plan and, if given a chance, it will work. New York has a responsibility to provide for the health care needs of its citizens. The Brooklyn Hospitals Safety Net Plan—our plan and the community’s plan—is a viable, workable option for long-term health care in Brooklyn. That’s something that Brooklyn residents desperately need. Frederick E. Kowal is president of United University Professions, the union representing 35,000 faculty and professional staff at SUNY’s 29 state-operated campuses, including SUNY’s public teaching hospitals and health science centers in Brooklyn, Buffalo, Long Island and Syracuse. With the city deciding to move forward on most of the school co-locations approved late last year, as Mayor Bloomberg prepared to vacate City Hall, parents in southwest Brooklyn are not only disappointed but angry. While the Department of Education under Mayor de Blasio wisely opted to back out of a planned co-location of a new high school inside Gravesend’s John Dewey High School, the DOE decided to move ahead with two others: the co-location of a charter school inside Seth Low Intermediate School in Bensonhurst and another inside Joseph B. Cavallaro Intermediate School in Bath Beach. These – like others in the borough and the city – are both fiercely opposed by parents, educators, students and the local Community Education Councils, all of whom contend that the co-locations would steal necessary space from students already attending the schools, and those who will be going to them in the near future. While the city has said it only considers under-utilized schools for co-locations, area education advocates say that both Cavallaro and Seth Low are well utilized, and likely to become more crowded as students now in elementary school in both District 20 and District 21 move up to middle school. Indeed, District 20 is one of the most crowded school districts in the city, so much so that the city built a host of new schools for it in the past decade, with more being planned, meaning that public school students in both District 20 and District 21 are likely to feel the squeeze should they have to share space with students from a charter school. That strikes us as patently unfair. While some of the charter schools poised to open in September, 2014 may be worthy additions to the city’s educational offerings, their needs should not trump the needs of existing schools with existing students. And, indeed, when a charter school is put inside a public school, the process must involve the school communities at both educational institutions, and parents must also be involved. The city must go back to the drawing board and come up with alternative arrangements for the charter schools planned for Seth Low and Cavallaro as well as other schools where they are opposed.. The students who attend those schools deserve no less. guest op-ed Keep SUNY Downstate open and public BY FREDERICK E. KOWAL Entire contents copyright 2015 by Home Reporter and Sunset News Last week, a 6.2 magnitude earthquake struck central Italy, killing 290 people and injuring several hundred more. Towns including Amatrice, Pescara del Tronto and Rieti resembled devastation on par with the destruction of Pompeii nearly 2,000 years ago, eerily on the same date. We are no strangers to natural disasters here in New York City. Hurricane Sandy dealt us a big blow but through the help of our neighbors and the world, we bounced back. These majestic towns in the central region of Italy are not built like New York City. They do not have the infrastructure and resources of a major municipality. Our city could not rebuild alone and this region especially cannot. Its recovery will undoubtedly be a long process and those who have lost loved ones will never truly heal. However, we can assist in easing their burden. There are recent reports that faulty construction of buildings in these towns, including the renovation of an elementary school that was said to be “earthquake proof,” may have played a large role in the fatalities. Italy’s government is looking into the matter to see if building codes were lawfully met or erroneously ignored. Indeed, this is alarming news, but we must keep the victims at the forefront for immediate relief. Simply put: the people of central Italy need our help. With Italian American Heritage Month in October just a month away, the FIAO swiftly acted and organized a relief fund in partnership with the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce and with support from elected offi cials. FIAO raised $5,000 on its fi rst day of accepting donations. How can you help? To donate to FIAO’s relief fund, make a check payable to the FIAO Emergency Relief Fund and send it to 7403 18th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11204. You can also visit www.fi aobrooklyn.org and click the “Donate for the Central Italy Earthquake Victims” tab at the top of the page, which will direct you to the Italian Red Cross. In addition, the society of “Figli di Santa Rosalia” held a fundraiser for earthquake relief to close this past week’s festival in Bensonhurst and is organizing a committee to run a fullscale fundraising project through which people all over the world can donate too. To donate, make a check payable to “Figli Di Santa Rosalia” and mail it to 7204 20th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11204. For further information call 718- 234-0160 and ask for Angelo Timoneri or Pio Andreotti. This city and the borough of Brooklyn will always have a special bond with Italy. This earthquake has rocked its central region and its people are in dire need of aid. Please join me and support the Federation of Italian-American Organizations and the Santa Rosalia Society in their efforts to assist the victims of this natural disaster in getting back on their feet so that these cities can rise again from the rubble of this tragedy. Thank you and please keep Italy’s central region and its victims in your thoughts and prayers. City Councilmember Vincent Gentile represents the 43rd Council District in Bay Ridge, Bensonhurst, Bath Beach and Dyker Heights. street talk I think it’s unfair. You should be HALL Incidents of graffiti our readers, to submit “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a for induction Send all high resolution and a contact Help us take our I think it’s unfair. As long as they’re New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk our kids the biggest winners In Albany earlier this month, I joined with celebrities from NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” Time Warner Cable representatives and State Senate Co-Leader Jeffrey Klein to double down on public/private efforts to reverse rising obesity trends among children and young adults in New York. We want all our children to have the chance to be “The Biggest Winners” in good health. The stakes are high. According to health experts, including the U.S. Surgeon General, obesity, especially among children and minority populations, is approaching epidemic proportions. The percentage of American children who are obese has doubled since the 1980s. One in four obese children has early signs of Type II diabetes formerly seen only in adults. Overweight children as young as eight have been found with risk factors for heart disease. We need to tackle the problem to protect the children in our communities. A study conducted in New York City elementary public schools found that 43 percent of the students weigh more than they should. The city’s survey of obesity found significant differences among the races and ethnic groups; among Hispanic children the rate of obesity is 31 percent. I am proud that last month Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law my legislation to increase direct marketing of fresh fruits and vegetables (Assembly bill A.6628). This law will increase direct marketing of fresh fruits and vegetables in areas of New York with high levels of adult and child obesity, create obesity awareness sessions in schools and encourage the expansion of community gardens to increase the availability and affordability of local produce. We must build on this and other initiatives to promote healthy and active lifestyles, proper nutrition and rigorous exercise in underserved communities. As parents, we must provide our children with the tools they will need to be prosperous and successful; an important aspect of this is to highlight the importance of healthy eating and an active lifestyle. Together, we can raise awareness to an even higher level and become part of a healthy solution in which all New Yorkers are winners. Assemblymember Felix W. Ortiz represents the 51st Assembly District, encompassing Sunset Park, Red Hook, Bay Ridge, Greenwood Heights, Gowanus, the Columbia Street Waterfront District and Borough Park. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk I think it’s unfair. HALL Incidents of graffiti have risen. The our readers, to submit photos of vandalism “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a home or business for induction into our “Hall of Send all high resolution JPG images and a contact number. Otherwise,Help us take our borough back from I think it’s unfair. on NYS driver’s licenses New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk I think it’s unfair. You should be allowed to be there before 9 a.m. It’s a giant field. A lot of people take their HALL Incidents of graffiti have risen. The our readers, to submit photos of vandalism “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a home or business for induction into our “Hall of Fame.” Send all high resolution JPG images and a contact number. Otherwise,Help us take our borough back from I think it’s unfair. As long as they’re on a leash, it should be fine. Lots of people have dogs. James W. Maybe they a time frame don’t even think that’s legal them. It’s a park. If dogs on a leash, they Veteran status now available on NYS driver’s licenses New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk I think it’s unfair. You should be HALL OF SHAME BROOKLYN Incidents of graffiti have risen. The Home Reporter our readers, to submit photos of vandalism – or addresses “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a home or business has “cleaned up for induction into our “Hall of Fame.” Send all high resolution JPG images (300 DPI) to editorial@and a contact number. Otherwise, contact us at 9733 Help us take our borough back from the vandals! I think it’s unfair. As long as they’re Maybe they can do a time frame . I Veteran status now available on NYS driver’s licenses New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk HALL OF SHAME BROOKLYN Incidents of graffiti have risen. The Home Reporter our readers, to submit photos of vandalism – or addresses “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a home or business has “cleaned up for induction into our “Hall of Fame.” Send all high resolution JPG images (300 DPI) to editorial@and a contact number. Otherwise, contact us at 9733 Help us take our borough back from the vandals! Making our kids the biggest winners In Albany earlier this month, I joined with celebrities from NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” Time Warner Cable representatives and State Senate Co-Leader Jeffrey Klein to double down on public/private efforts to reverse rising obesity trends among children and young adults in New York. We want all our children to have the chance to be “The Biggest Winners” in good health. The stakes are high. According to health experts, including the U.S. Surgeon General, obesity, especially among children and minority populations, is approaching epidemic proportions. The percentage of American children who are obese has doubled since the 1980s. One in four obese children has early signs of Type II diabetes formerly seen only in adults. Overweight children as young as eight have been found with risk factors for heart disease. We need to tackle the problem to protect the children in our communities. A study conducted in New York City elementary public schools found that 43 percent of the students weigh more than they should. The city’s survey of obesity found significant differences among the races and ethnic groups; among Hispanic children the rate of obesity is 31 percent. I am proud that last month Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law my legislation to increase direct marketing of fresh fruits and vegetables (Assembly bill A.6628). This law will increase direct marketing of fresh fruits and vegetables in areas of New York with high levels of adult and child obesity, create obesity awareness sessions in schools and encourage the expansion of community gardens to increase the availability and affordability of local produce. We must build on this and other initiatives to promote healthy and active lifestyles, proper nutrition and rigorous exercise in underserved communities. As parents, we must provide our children with the tools they will need to be prosperous and successful; an important aspect of this is to highlight the importance of healthy eating and an active lifestyle. Together, we can raise awareness to an even higher level and become part of a healthy solution in which all New Yorkers are winners. Assemblymember Felix W. Ortiz represents the 51st Assembly District, encompassing Sunset Park, Red Hook, Bay Ridge, Greenwood Heights, Gowanus, the Columbia Street Waterfront District and Borough Park. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus What’s I think it’s unfair. your favorite part of the “big game?” HALL OF SHAME BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP/Photo Incidents of graffiti have risen. The Home Reporter and Brooklyn Spectator our readers, to submit photos of vandalism – or addresses where you see graffiti “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a home or business has “cleaned up its act,” submit a photo for induction into our “Hall of Fame.” Send all high resolution JPG images (300 DPI) to [email protected] and a contact number. Otherwise, contact us at 9733 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn,Help us take our borough back from the vandals! I think it’s unfair. Maybe they can do status now available on NYS driver’s licenses New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus What do you think about the dog ban at Shore Road Park at 88th Street? take their HALL OF SHAME BROOKLYN MEDIA GROUP/Photo Incidents of graffiti have risen. The Home Reporter and Brooklyn Spectator our readers, to submit photos of vandalism – or addresses where you see graffiti “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a home or business has “cleaned up its act,” submit a photo for induction into our “Hall of Fame.” Send all high resolution JPG images (300 DPI) to [email protected] a contact number. Otherwise, contact us at 9733 Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn,Help us take our borough back from the vandals! I think it’s unfair. As long as they’re on a leash, it should be fine. Lots of people have dogs. James W. Maybe they can do a time frame . I don’t even think that’s legal to stop them. It’s a public park. If dogs are on a leash, they It’s dogs vicious someone. long being and Veteran status now available on NYS driver’s licenses New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus What do you think about the dog ban at Shore Road Park at 88th Street? compiled by Jaime DeJesus Fort Hamilton Pkwy. and 97th Street. Would you support the Education I think Investment it’s unfair. You should be Tax Credit if passed? our “I think it’s unfair. As long as they’re New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk our kids the biggest winners In Albany earlier this month, I joined with celebrities from NBC’s “The Biggest Loser,” Time Warner Cable representatives and State Senate Co-Leader Jeffrey Klein to double down on public/private efforts to reverse rising obesity trends among children and young adults in New York. We want all our children to have the chance to be “The Biggest Winners” in good health. The stakes are high. According to health experts, including the U.S. Surgeon General, obesity, especially among children and minority populations, is approaching epidemic proportions. The percentage of American children who are obese has doubled since the 1980s. One in four obese children has early signs of Type II diabetes formerly seen only in adults. Overweight children as young as eight have been found with risk factors for heart disease. We need to tackle the problem to protect the children in our communities. A study conducted in New York City elementary public schools found that 43 percent of the students weigh more than they should. The city’s survey of obesity found significant differences among the races and ethnic groups; among Hispanic children the rate of obesity is 31 percent. I am proud that last month Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law my legislation to increase direct marketing of fresh fruits and vegetables (Assembly bill A.6628). This law will increase direct marketing of fresh fruits and vegetables in areas of New York with high levels of adult and child obesity, create obesity awareness sessions in schools and encourage the expansion of community gardens to increase the availability and affordability of local produce. We must build on this and other initiatives to promote healthy and active lifestyles, proper nutrition and rigorous exercise in underserved communities. As parents, we must provide our children with the tools they will need to be prosperous and successful; an important aspect of this is to highlight the importance of healthy eating and an active lifestyle. Together, we can raise awareness to an even higher level and become part of a healthy solution in which all New Yorkers are winners. Assemblymember Felix W. Ortiz represents the 51st Assembly District, encompassing Sunset Park, Red Hook, Bay Ridge, Greenwood Heights, Gowanus, the Columbia Street Waterfront District and Borough Park. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk I think it’s unfair. HALL Incidents of our readers, to “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, for induction Send all high and a contact Help us take I think it’s unfair. New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 license replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus street talk I think it’s unfair. You should be allowed to be there before 9 a.m. It’s a giant field. A lot of people take their HALL Incidents of graffiti our readers, to submit “Hall of Shame.” Conversely, if a for induction Send all high resolution and a contact Help us take our I think it’s unfair. As long as they’re on a leash, it should be fine. Lots of people have dogs. James W. New York State is home to more than 900,000 military veterans and their families. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our way of life, and without them our country wouldn’t be nearly what it is today. As a member of the state Assembly, I’m committed to honoring and helping those who have served our country in the military. Last month, a law took effect that allows eligible residents to have their status as a veteran designated on their New York State driver’s license (Ch. 487 of 2012). Those who qualify can have the word “Veteran” printed on the upper left corner of their newly issued license, learner permit or non-driver photo identification card at no additional charge. The standard $12.50 replacement fee applies if a veteran chooses to replace his or her current license prior to its expiration date. Rather than carrying official military paperwork wherever they go, these special licenses will allow veterans to show proof of their service anywhere they bring their wallets. As a result, it will be easier for veterans to take advantage of many of the programs, benefits and discounts that are available to them. If you are an eligible veteran, you can apply for the status designation in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles office or by mail.To qualify, you will need to provide verification that you received an honorable discharge from military service or were released from military service under honorable conditions. If you would like to apply in person, you will need to provide an original document, which will be returned to you; if you apply by mail, you can include a photocopy. Acceptable forms of verification include a U.S. Department of Defense form DD- 214 that indicates an honorable discharge; a form DD-215 that indicates an honorable discharge; or honorable discharge forms WD AGO 53, WD AGO 55, WD AGO 53-55, NAVPERS 553, NAVMC 78PD or NAVCG 553. This law I helped pass will make it easier and more convenient for those who have served our country to get the benefits they deserve. The brave men and women of our military have made enormous sacrifices for all of us, and we have a responsibility to do everything we can to support them. For more information on the veteran status designation, you can visit dmv.ny.gov/armedforces.htm. As always, if you have questions, please feel free to contact me at 718-968-2770 or email [email protected]. Alan Maisel represents the 59th A.D. Compiled by Jaime DeJesus compiled by Jaime DeJesus Would you support the Education Investment DRAWING BOARD ▲ ▲ 9733 FOURTH AVE. • BROOKLYN, NY 11209 Co-Publisher ... Victoria Schneps-Yunis Co-Publisher ... Joshua A. Schneps Editor in Chief ... Helen Klein Telephone 718-238-6600 Fax 718-238-6630 E-mail [email protected] Periodical postage paid at Brooklyn, N.Y. Published weekly by Brooklyn Media Group, Inc. Single copies, 50 cents. $35 per year by mail, $40 outside Brooklyn. On June 8, 1962, the Bay Ridge Home Reporter (founded 1953) and the Brooklyn Sunset News, a continuation of the Bay Ridge News (founded 1943) were merged into the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS. Postmaster: Send Address Changes To: Home Reporter and Sunset News 9733 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, N.Y. 11209 Entire contents copyright 2014 by Home Reporter and Sunset News All letters sent to the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS should be brief and are subject to condensing. Writers should include a full address and home and office telephone numbers, where available, as well as affiliation, indicating special interest. Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, AS WELL AS OP-ED PIECES IN NO WAY REFLECT THE PAPER’S POSITION. No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without prior permission of the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS. The publishers will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS within five days of publication. Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication. Brooklyn Media Group, Inc. assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold the HOME REPORTER AND SUNSET NEWS and its employees harmless from all cost, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication or recording placed by the advertiser or any reply to such advertisement. Each day, thousands of people depend on SUNY Downstate Medical Center for emergency medical care and vital health care services. But this state-operated public hospital has been in danger of being closed or privatized for more than two years. Hundreds of jobs have been lost, and numerous health care services have been cut or curtailed due to the hospital’s ill-prepared “Sustainability Plan.” Now, there is language in the 2014-15 proposed state budget that would open the door to as many as five corporations to operate SUNY’s public hospitals. United University Professions, the union that represents nearly 3,000 employees at SUNY Downstate, has been fighting to keep SUNY Downstate a fully operational staterun facility. However, UUP isn’t fighting the battle alone. The SUNY Downstate Coalition of Faith, Labor and Community Leaders has become an important ally. The coalition has staged a number of rallies and protests over the past 18 months to save health care services and jobs at SUNY Downstate and keep it a public facility. The latest such effort is a 48-hour interfaith fast. It will begin Sunday, March 9, at 3 p.m., in front of Downstate’s 470 Clarkson Avenue entrance. Interfaith leaders and members of the community will participate to show their strong support for this beacon in Brooklyn and call attention to the threats it faces. You can take part in the fast or find out more about it by calling 718-270-1519, or sending an email to [email protected]. We strongly urge you to join our campaign. Take part in the fast, or come out and show your support. Together, we can deliver a strong message that SUNY Downstate must remain a full-service, state-operated public hospital. The threats facing SUNY Downstate are real. The SUNY Board of Trustees has openly discussed the possibility of closing SUNY Downstate. There is also language in the Executive Budget, which would allow to control SUNY’s public hospitals; one affiliate with an academic medical institution hospital. SUNY Downstate has teaching hospital. Privatizing or closing SUNY Downstate the state to save dollars is shortsighted We believe the answer to Brooklyn’s health lies in the “Brooklyn Hospitals a UUP-backed initiative to stabilize and care throughout Brooklyn. This plan would preserve SUNY Downstate several financially unstable hospitals including Interfaith Medical Center, Island College Hospital and Kingsbrook Center. You can see the proposal http://www.brooklynhospitalplan.org. It calls for the creation of a network care centers, and would be controlled with 14 other Brooklyn hospitals. be the network’s hub, educating and and medical staff to the care centers with doctors at the other hospitals. It’s a simple, effective plan and, if given will work. New York has a responsibility to provide care needs its citizens. The Brooklyn Net Plan—our plan and the community’s viable, workable option for long-term Brooklyn. That’s something that Brooklyn residents need. Frederick E. Kowal is president of United Professions, the union representing 35,000 staff at SUNY’s 29 state-operated campuses, SUNY’s public teaching hospitals and health in Brooklyn, Buffalo, Long Island and Syracuse. With the city deciding to move forward on most of the school co-locations approved late last year, as Mayor Bloomberg prepared to vacate City Hall, parents in southwest Brooklyn are not only disappointed but angry. While the Department of Education under Mayor de Blasio wisely opted to back out of a planned co-location of a new high school inside Gravesend’s John Dewey High School, the DOE decided to move ahead with two others: the co-location of a charter school inside Seth Low Intermediate School in Bensonhurst and another inside Joseph B. Cavallaro Intermediate School in Bath Beach. These – like others in the borough and the city – are both fiercely opposed by parents, educators, students and the local Community Education Councils, all of whom contend that the co-locations would steal necessary space from students already attending the schools, and those who will be going to them in the near future. While the city has said it only considers under-utilized schools for co-locations, area education advocates say that both Cavallaro and Seth Low are well utilized, and likely to become more crowded as students now in elementary school in both District 20 and District 21 move up to middle school. Indeed, District 20 is one of the most crowded school districts in the city, so much so that the city built a host of new schools for it in the past decade, with more being planned, meaning that public school students in both District 20 and District 21 are likely to feel the squeeze should they have to share space with students from a charter school. That strikes us as patently unfair. While some of the charter schools poised to open in September, 2014 may be worthy additions to the city’s educational offerings, their needs should not trump the needs of existing schools with existing students. And, indeed, when a charter school is put inside a public school, the process must involve the school communities at both educational institutions, and parents must also be involved. The city must go back to the drawing board and come up with alternative arrangements for the charter schools planned for Seth Low and Cavallaro as well as other schools where they are opposed.. The students who attend those schools deserve no less. guest op-ed Keep SUNY Downstate open and BY FREDERICK E. KOWAL TACKLING THE CURSE OF DRUG ADDICTION As is becoming increasingly obvious, southwest Brooklyn is being plagued by drug problems, with far too many of the area’s teens and young adults hooked on prescription painkillers and heroin. Just a few weeks back, the 68th Precinct saved two people in unrelated incidents from heroin overdoses, thanks to the use of Narcan. Over the past several months, there have been multiple impressive drug busts, with cops bringing in signifi cant quantities of illegal drugs. And, organizations like the Resource Training Center, which originated in Sunset Park and has expanded to Bay Ridge, are seeing increasing numbers of addicts seeking help. Unfortunately, at the same time, people have been OD’ing and dying, many of them young, vibrant people. Rocky Bekuradze, a Gravesend resident, was one, dying last month of a heroin overdose at the age of 25. Because of his death, Gravesend residents came together in a show of anger against the devastation that drug addiction has wrought and a show of compassion for those who are addicted, in a march and rally that drew hundreds of people. Rocky’s mother, her loss still raw and painful, was one. She says she wants to stop other mothers from going through what she is going through, telling this paper, “I hope everyone wakes up. The politicians, the doctors who write prescriptions, people on the street who don’t say anything. If everyone would do something, maybe our kids wouldn’t die.” Indeed, it is long past time to tackle this complex and devastating problem. With addictions all too often arising from legitimate prescriptions for painkillers, it becomes incumbent upon medical practitioners to be more careful about writing prescriptions for opioids. We also need more detox programs and easier access for addicts, a greater commitment by government to rooting out the suppliers wherever they may lurk and to using technology as a tool to keep track of exactly who is getting opioid prescriptions and how frequently, and a greater understanding that drug addiction is, fi rst and foremost, a disease that too often proves deadly. A LOOK BACK Compiled by Gary Nilsen and Helen Klein As today southwest Brooklyn is helping to collect needed money for earthquake-ravaged towns in central Italy, 53 years ago, area residents banded together to help an area of the country devastated by ooding. In this photo from the October 18, 1963 edition of The Home Reporter and Sunset News, then-Senator Kenneth Keating, and former Assemblymembers Robert Kelly and Luigi Marano, left to right, are shown at 71st Street and 13th Avenue collecting relief supplies for Italy, where, on October 9, water had overtopped the Vajont Dam in the country’s Dolomite Mountain region while it was being lled, destroying several villages and killing approximately 2,000 people.
HRR09012016
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