Marty Hosts Conference to Wrap up Domestic Violence Month

On November 4th, Marty brought together a number of experts in the field of domestic violence, including Kings County District Attorney Charles Hynes, to discuss what can be done to try and tackle this very serious issue. "For far too long, domestic violence has been a dirty secret," said the BP. "Women and children, who are the vast majority of domestic violence victims, feel shame, guilt, fear, as though it was their fault. I urge you to continue your struggle to build awareness and increase sensitivity regarding this life and death issue, and also to push for legislation for more and better housing, better protection, and the full range of support services that women and children require to permanently escape this cycle of violence." The panel outlined the challenges facing domestic violence victims and the law enforcement and healthcare agencies that help them, opportunities to overcome these challenges and tried to determine a plan of action for the future. Wanda Lucibello, Chief of the Kings County Domestic Violence Bureau, moderated the discussion. Participating organizations were the Brooklyn District Attorney's Office, Park Slope Safe Homes Project, Sanctuary for Families, The Family Violence Project of the Urban Justice Project and The Kings County Hospital Center.

Panamanian Independence Day Celebration at Borough Hall

On November 4th, Marty commemorated the 99th Anniversary of Panamanian Independence with a Borough Hall celebration. A number of Panamanian-Americans were also recognized for their valuable contributions to the betterment of the borough. "I want to congratulate President Mauricio Alleyne and the officers and members of the Panamanian Civic Committee of New York for once again doing an outstanding job creating tonight's program," said the BP. "Brooklyn is home to the largest Panamanian community in the Tri-State area. We celebrate Panamanian Independence Day, as well as the vibrant cultural additions Panamanian-Americans have made to our borough. Panamanian-Americans have distinguished themselves in every profession and field of endeavor, and I commend your dedication and commitment to greatly improving the quality of life in Brooklyn. And even though I'm a self-proclaimed Trini, I nonetheless admire our brothers and sisters of Panamanian heritage!"

Long Island College Hospital Opens New Emergency Room

On November 6th, Marty celebrated another milestone at Long Island College Hospital with the grand opening of its newly renovated emergency room. "The renovation of this emergency care unit is one more example of Long Island College Hospital's outstanding contributions to Brooklyn's reputation as a place to receive the very best medical care," said Marty. This project has completely renovated the 15,000 square foot emergency unit to reduce waiting time for patients, ensure greater comfort and update the technology in the ER. It also will provide special services for cardiac and stroke patients, pediatric emergencies, asthma, and for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

Marty Hosts Brooklyn's First Ever Block Association Assembly

On November 7th, Marty welcomed several hundred Brooklynites to NYC College of Technology's Auditorium for the borough's first Block Association Assembly. He stressed the importance of organizing a Brooklyn Federation of Block Associations, which could, among other things, address important quality of life issues and be an incredibly powerful purchasing body. Another important topic was how these associations can and should collaborate together to help improve their neighborhoods and the entire borough. "Because Brooklyn has so many block associations - about 1500 at last count - I believe that we can accomplish a great deal more for our communities by organizing neighborhood groups to work together," said the BP. "By organizing, I believe that block and civic associations can wield considerable influence in addressing community concerns and gaining access to city services. And I believe this is particularly true when a number of associations in the same neighborhood speak in one voice." Community Board Two Chairperson Shirley McRae, Judy Grimaldi, co-president of the Alliance of Bay Ridge Block Associations, and Ellen Kirby from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden also gave presentations. A number of representatives from City agencies were also in attendance.

Two Brooklyn Churches Celebrate Major Milestones

Marty recently attended the 75th anniversary celebrations for both the Good Shepherd Church in Marine Park and the Mary Queen of Heaven Church in Mill Basin. "I want to congratulate Monsignor Thomas Brady and Father Jamie Gigantiello on this momentous milestone and for all of the incredible work that both of these churches have done for their communities and the entire borough. There is no doubt that Brooklyn is the borough of churches and you both continue to make us incredibly proud," said the BP.

Brooklyn Mourns Losses

Our condolences go out to Brooklyn North NYPD Chief Joseph Cunneen and his family on the loss of his brother John M. Cunneen, who died on November 6th. Marty joins the rest of Brooklyn in also mourning the death of Tae-Sub Kim, the 64 year-old Park Slope shoe repairman who was murdered in his store on November 4th. Natalie Helene Jacobs Cave, wife of the esteemed Dr. Vernal G.K. Cave, and Estelle Hyatt, former Democratic State Committeewoman and aide to Congressman Anthony Weiner, also recently passed.