ATTENTION: 9-Year-Old Boy Killed In Fort Greene Vehicular Incident

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
November 2, 2013

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081 

9-Year-Old Boy Killed In Fort Greene Vehicular Incident

(Brooklyn, NY)-- Around 12:45PM on Saturday, November 2, 2013, a man driving a red SUV Ford Expedition west along Fort Greene's DeKalb Avenue, moved to turn left onto Clermont Avenue and collided with another vehicle.

According to reports, the driver of the SUV then lost control of his brakes, mounted the sidewalk, and crashed into a nearby building.

The tragic accident caused pedestrian injuries, and killed a 9-year-old boy. Witnesses state that the 9-year-old boy, his sibling (a 5-year-old boy), their 47-year-old mother, and another 28-year-old woman were among those injured. The 9-year-old boy was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, while the other victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

"My heart goes out to the victims and loved ones affected by the tragic vehicular incident that took place in Fort Greene today," said Council Member Letitia James. "I will be working with the Department of Transportation to review the details of the incident, and specifically determine what measures can be taken to increase driver and pedestrian safety along De Kalb Avenue."

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New York Political Advisor Bill Lynch Passes

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
AUGUST 12, 2013

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

New York Political Advisor Bill Lynch Passes 
William Lynch Served As Deputy Mayor Under Dinkins Administration, Later Founded New York’s Premier African-American Owned Consulting Firm

(New York, NY)— “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Bill Lynch, one of New York City’s most active and well-regarded public affairs experts, and a brilliant political mind.”

“Throughout the 1990’s, Mr. Lynch was known as a tireless public servant. As Deputy Mayor of the City of New York, and later as a political advisor, he remained an influential figure and voice for multi-ethnic community and coalition-building. Since establishing his firm, Mr. Lynch served as an advisor to countless elected officials, building Bill Lynch Associates LLC into a respected and successful consulting firm.”

“Straight-forward and focused, Mr. Lynch was often called “the rumpled genius” for his unassuming manner and political expertise. I extend my condolences to his wife Mary, and two children, William Lynch III and Stacy.”

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CM James Commends NYPD for Quick Identification of Hit-and-Run Suspect; Accident Claimed the Lives of Young Williamburg Family

UPDATE: Multiple media reports now state that Mr. Julio Acevedo will surrender to police.

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
MARCH 4, 2013

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James Commends NYPD for Quick Identification of Hit-and-Run Suspect 

(New York, NY)— On March 3, 2013, a tragic car crash claimed the lives of a young Williamsburg couple expecting a child. Raizel (Raizy) and Nachman Glauber— who were traveling to the hospital in a Toyota Camry livery cab at the time of the collision— were struck by a BMW Sedan driving northbound along Kent Avenue. While the cab driver was treated for minor injuries, the Glauber’s child (a boy) was born prematurely in an emergency procedure. The baby sustained blunt trauma, and was pronounced deceased on March 4, 2013. The driver of the BMW left the scene of the collision.

By 2PM on Monday, March 04, 2013, police had identified Julio Acevedo as a suspect in the hit-and-run. Mr. Acevedo had a previous DWI arrest in February 2013, and was reportedly traveling at least 60mph when his car struck the cab carrying the Glaubers. The speed limit in the area is 30mph. Additionally, media reports state that Mr. Acevedo previously served an estimated eight years in prison on a manslaughter charge in a shooting death.

“I extend my condolences to the Glauber’s extended family at this tragic time,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I commend the police department for quickly identifying a suspect, and I join the voices calling for the suspect to be charged with a triple homicide.”

Police state that at minimum Mr. Acevedo would be charged with fleeing from the scene of a crime. Community leaders are calling for a charge of triple homicide for the suspect.

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CM James Comments on Legacy of Mayor Ed Koch

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
FEBRUARY 1, 2013

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James Comments on Legacy of Mayor Ed Koch

(New York, NY)— “My thoughts are with the loved ones of Mayor Ed Koch, who was an icon and a true New Yorker. His influence in strengthening New York’s then-struggling economy, and his fighter spirit was an inspiration to us all. He will be deeply missed, and remembered as a prominent figure in both New York and national politics.”

 Edward Irving Koch served in the United States House of Representatives from 1969 to 1977. He was New York City’s 105th Mayor from 1978 to 1989, serving three consecutive terms. After leaving public office, he remained a political figure, and enjoyed notoriety as a media personality.

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UPDATE: FAMILY LOCATED- CM James Calls on Relatives of Winston Gillett to Come Forward

UPDATE: Since this press release was sent, Mr. Gillett's family has been located and notified of his passing. We thank the media for their assistance in bringing closure during this difficult time.

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**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
SEPTEMBER 11, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES CALLS ON RELATIVES OF WINSTON GILLETT TO COME FORWARD 
Mr. Gillett Was A Construction Worker Killed in A Fort Greene Roof Collapse 

(Brooklyn, NY)— Yesterday, a four-story building’s roof collapsed at the Fort Greene site of the developing Carlton Mews Townhouses at 227 Carlton Avenue. The roof collapse took the life of Mr. Winston Gillett, 67, a construction worker with TTNJ Community-Based Organization. Another worker, Mr. Clayton LaBoard, 43, remains hospitalized and in critical condition.

At this time, no relatives of Mr. Gillett have come forward. The Jamaican Consulate General has been contacted to assist in the search for family members. Mr. Gillett’s last known address was on Irving Avenue in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn.

“I urge anyone who recognizes Mr. Gillett to come forward so that we can provide closure to his family at this tragic time.” said Council Member Letitia James.

Any individual who recognizes Mr. Gillett, and is in contact with his relatives, should reach out to the Office of Council Member Letitia James at (212) 788-7081 immediately.

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ATTENTION: CM James Comments on Collapse of FG Townhouse Roof

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
SEPTEMBER 10, 2012

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES COMMENTS ON COLLAPSE OF FORT GREENE TOWNHOUSE ROOF
CALLS ON FURTHER OVERSIGHT AND PRECAUTION AT CONSTRUCTION SITES

(Brooklyn, NY)— On Monday, September 10, 2012, a four-story building’s roof collapsed at the site of the developing Carlton Mew Townhouses at 227 Carlton Avenue. The roof collapse, which took place at around 9:15AM, severely injured two construction workers—one who was pronounced deceased at Brooklyn Hospital. Additionally, two other workers were busy on the roof at the time of the collapse.

The development at both 225 and 227 Carlton held Department of Building (DOB) permits for proposed two-family homes. A representative of the DOB clarified that there were no open complaints or violations on the development (although some media reports state the site has at least 1 violation). However, the New York Times reported that a neighbor recently called 311 to complain about excessive vibrations coming from the construction site; but they did not file a formal complaint with the City. Various media reports echo poor construction at the development site.

The Times also reports that other neighbors say they had noticed structural damage to their own homes since the construction started a few months ago.

“This tragic incident raises serious concerns about the safety practices at this construction site, and whether there was proper oversight of this construction by both the Department of Buildings and the developer,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I will be working closely with the Department to review the circumstances that led to this horrific incident. I believe this tragedy further underscores the need for greater safety precautions and worker safety training at major development sites throughout the City.”

The Carlton Mews Townhouses consist of five proposed townhouses along Carlton Avenue between Willoughby Avenue and Dekalb Avenue. The proposed completion date for the project was December 2012.

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ATTENTION: CM James Hosts Non-Violence Community March & Rally; 4/1

Council Member Letitia James
Rev. Dr. Mark V. C. Taylor, Church of the Open Door
Ed Brown, Ingersoll Houses TA President
Isabella Lee, Whitman houses TA President
Mary Andrews, Farragut Houses TA President

Non-Violence March and Rally
Ingersoll / Whitman / Farragut Houses
Please Put Down the Weapons: Let’s Stop the Violence
Palm Sunday April 1st 2012 at 3:00 PM

• Start in Whitman on Carlton Avenue
• Walking through the development
• Crossing at No. Portland Avenue & Auburn Place
• Into Ingersoll walking across the bridge to
• Fleet Walk crossing over Park Avenue into
• Farragut on to York Street continuing to Bridge Street
• Ending at The Church of the Open Door
• Resources, remarks, refreshments

For more information, please contact the Office of Council Member Letitia James at (718) 260-9191.

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO WEAR HOODIES WEDNESDAY, CALL FOR JUSTICE FOR TRAYVON MARTIN

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
March 26, 2012

CONTACT: Joe Taranto, Council Member Viverito’s Office
(917) 535-5531, jtaranto@council.nyc.gov
Aja Worthy-Davis, Council Member James’ Office
(212) 788-7081, aworthydavis@council.nyc.gov

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO WEAR HOODIES WEDNESDAY, CALL FOR JUSTICE FOR TRAYVON MARTIN

(New York, NY) – This Wednesday, March 28th, New York City Council Members will wear hoodies at an action on the steps of City Hall at 12:30 PM to call for justice for Trayvon Martin. After a brief press conference, participating Council Members and their staff will attend the Council’s Stated meeting in their hoodies. They will also bring Skittles and iced tea, which Trayvon carried as he was shot and killed because he looked “like he [was] up to no good." This action is being coordinated by Council Members Melissa Mark-Viverito and Letitia James, and several Council Members have already confirmed their participation (list in formation).

"The senseless murder of Trayvon Martin is an unspeakable tragedy and his family deserves justice," said Council Member Melissa Mark-Viverito. "Incidents like these only serve as a reminder of how much further we as a society have to go until all people are treated equally. As the 911 calls from that tragic night demonstrate, Trayvon was targeted strictly based on his appearance. The fact that George Zimmerman has not been brought up on any charges only reinforces the cynicism in communities of color about our law enforcement and criminal justice systems. I send my deepest condolences to Trayvon's family and remain hopeful that, with the growing pressure being felt throughout the nation, his killer will be brought to justice. This Wednesday, we will send the message that the City Council will not stand silent against such flagrant injustices, no matter where they occur."

"The sad reality of the Trayvon Martin tragedy is one that plagues urban communities throughout America," said Council Member Letitia James. "People of color, particularly young men of color, are faced with bouts of racism each day. As I zip up my hoodie, sip my iced tea, and snack on some Skittles, I extend my heart to the Martin family and demand justice for Trayvon."

The hoodie has emerged as a symbol to remember Trayvon’s story and the failure of the Sanford Police Department to bring his killer to justice. Last week, Trayvon's parents joined a Million Hoodie March in Union Square and on Friday, nearly 300 Congressional staffers held a "Hoodies on the Hill" protest. Yesterday, congregants in churches across New York City wore hoodies to call for an end to discrimination.

"Wearing a hoodie should not be a death sentence," said Council Member Debi Rose. "Today, we are standing in solidarity with all of the Trayvons, cut down in their prime solely because of how they look and what they wear. The choice of clothing that one chooses to wear should not relegate them to unwarranted search, negative profiling, or the most tragic of outcomes, death. All people of good conscience and a sense of justice must stand to ensure that this type of vigilante justice is stopped now.

“As a parent of two teenage children I am concerned about their safety and this tragic incident underscores my and many other parents fears in the African-American community. It is important we come together as a community, city, and nation, in order to understand why and how this took place so we can stop these calamities from occurring in the future," said Council Member Leroy Comrie. "The attempt to hide behind the ‘Stand Your Ground’ law in this situation is transparent and the profiling that took place in this matter is disturbing. Listening to the chilling 9-1-1 account as Trayvon called for help, compelled me to work with my local Community Council to organize a march and rally this Saturday at 10:00am in Southeast Queens to not only protest, but also to educate our youth about their rights. My hearts and prayers go out to Trayvon Martin and his family in this difficult time and I hope justice will prevail.”

Earlier today, Speaker Christine Quinn announced that she would be introducing a resolution with Council Members Mark-Viverito, James and other colleagues “that will condemn this killing, the weaknesses in its investigation and the lack of an arrest. Our resolution will also call for an examination of stand your ground laws nationwide, including their impact on increasing the flow of illegal guns to New York City.”

"Trayvon Martin has tragically become something far more than a boy who senselessly lost his life. His death has become a cry for us to do more to confront ongoing racism in this country,” said Council Member Brad Lander. “I hope that the local police will make an arrest today, and that the Justice Department will investigate whether this was a hate crime. But more than that: I hope we will all see the need to confront the enduring racial bias that too often persists, so deeply rooted in our personal reactions, our neighborhoods, our workplaces, our policing practices, and our public policies. Let's work to honor Trayvon's memory by doing more to advance Dr. King's dream, toward which we still have so far to go."

"Wearing a hoodie shouldn't be a capital offense" said Council Member Ydanis Rodriguez. "Trayvon's death struck a chord in New York City because we've seen far too many young Black and Latino men killed unjustly. Council Members James and Mark-Viverito have brought the Council together to stand up against this injustice, and I'll be wearing a hoodie with them to show that Trayvon's death will not be forgotten."

"Trayvon's life was cut short at the promising age of 17. Thanks to runaway gun laws, his loved ones will be unable to see him reach his full potential as a scholar or an athlete. His loss reminds us all of the dangers of intolerance, while the inadequate handling of his death by the Sanford City Police Department highlights the need to reform radical gun policies," said Council Member Robert Jackson.

"In the face of this terrible tragedy, we must coalesce and demand justice for the unwarranted death of Trayvon Martin," said Council Member Daniel Dromm. "I would like to express my deepest sympathies to Trayvon's family and call upon local law enforcement to fully and fairly investigate the case because such blatant injustices are not acceptable in our society."

"In this country, we need to have a clear and quick response to profiling and biased murders, whether committed by civilians or police officers,” said Council Member Rosie Mendez. “We demand justice for Trayvon Martin as well as for all New Yorkers who have been subject to profiling."

"The Trayvon Martin incident was a horrible tragedy that never should have happened -- and certainly not in this country," said Council Member Dan Garodnick. "The investigation needs to be swift and comprehensive, and must conclude in a way that ensures that justice is served."

"This madness must stop! We demand justice, before we are forced into desperate means to protect ourselves,” said Council Member Charles Barron. “The Department of Justice should immediately arrest George Zimmerman and begin the prosecution of this case."

“There is no experience worse for a parent than losing a child. For the parents of young Trayvon Martin though, the situation is made more unbearable due to Stand your Ground, outrageous legislation passed by the politicians in Florida. George Zimmerman, the murderer, might remain free because he claims that he felt threatened even though Mr. Martin was unarmed and returning from the store. Without this law, Trayvon might be alive or, at the very least, we could rest assured that justice would prevail. I look forward to standing with my colleagues in the City Council in my hoodie to remember Trayvon Martin and demand justice for his family,” said Council Member Gale A. Brewer.

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COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES REMEMBERS ARTIST AND VISIONARY AARON INGRAM

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
March 22, 2012

Contact: Amyre Loomis (646) 201-8183

COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES REMEMBERS ARTIST AND VISIONARY AARON INGRAM

(Brooklyn, NY)— Aaron Ingram, the beloved ActNow Foundation founder & Executive Director, passed away on Monday, March 19th, after a prolonged battle with cancer. We will remember the theater and film programs that he brought to Brooklyn audiences, and his innumerable contributions to the national and international artistic communities.

The funeral service celebrating the life of Aaron Ingram will take place this Friday, March 23rd, at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 279 Lafayette Avenue in Brooklyn. The viewing begins at 10am and the celebration begins at 11am. For more information please contact ActNow’s Curtis John at (347) 275-0563, or curtis@actnowproduction.org. Aaron’s family has created the following link as well: http://www.facebook.com/events/206561192783357/ .

Aaron Ingram founded ActNow Foundation nearly a decade ago to support artists of color, and showcase black film and theater. ActNow started humbly by showing short films at local bars, and has since grown to producing the Brooklyn Academy of Music’s “New Voices in Black Cinema” screening series. Aaron said that his passion to promote black films stems from his upbringing in a racially and culturally mixed neighborhood in the Bronx, where he learned you didn’t have to be black to identify with black characters. Aaron’s strength and sensitivity created a home for the black arts community, and his inspiration continues to keep ActNow moving forward.

We remember Aaron for his big heart, love of the arts, his achievements as an actor, director, visionary, and as founder of a leading Black theater and film institution. Through ActNow Foundation, his legacy lives on with the continuation of great programs like New Voices in Black Cinema, New Voices in Theater, and the program that started ActNow, the ANF Short Film Collective. Aaron Ingram will truly be missed. His support of the African-American creative process is legendary. A gentleman with a wonderful spirit, he kept on fighting the fight for artists of color, and today his vision is already a part of the future. Aaron made a difference in the lives of many people. We thank him for sharing his gifts, and nurturing the Brooklyn renaissance in film and theatre. We will miss Aaron dearly, but will continue his dream.

The Funeral Service for Aaron Ingram will take place:
Friday March 23rd at Emmanuel Baptist Church
279 Lafayette Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238 (at Lafayette Avenue & St. James Place)
Viewing at 10am - Celebration Begins at 11am


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BK Mourns Loss of Luigi Viaggio, Founder of Clinton Hill Pizzeria

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
January 31, 2012

Contact: Amyre Loomis (718) 260-9191

COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES SADDENED BY PASSING OF LUIGI VIAGGIO, FOUNDER OF LUIGI’S PIZZERIA IN CLINTON HILL

(Brooklyn, NY) The Fort Greene, Clinton Hill and Bed-Stuy communities mourn the loss of Luigi Viaggio, who together with brother Angelo, and Rosario Longo founded Luigi’s Pizzeria in 1983 located on DeKalb Avenue; the restaurant now has an additional shop on Grand Avenue.

He died on Wednesday, January 25 at the age of 62, and Luigi was the beloved husband of Mattia and the loving father of Maria Antonella Viaggio-Giovanni, Daniela Viaggio and Nicolo Luigi Viaggio. A Christian mass and burial was held at Our Lady of Hope Church on Monday, January 30 at 9:45am. The pizza shop was closed Monday, and a makeshift memorial can be found at the eatery on Dekalb Avenue near Washington Avenue.

“Luigi’s Pizzeria has always been known as the pizza shop around the corner that the community can depend on to provide high quality slices and pies to residents, students, local churches, as well as to me when in need of a snack after a long work-day. The restaurant will continue to provide delicious Italian food in honor of its founder, a big-hearted man remembered for making sure that locals were fed, regardless of the money in their pockets,” said Council Member James.

“A constituent who resides across the street shared that her now 21-year old daughter would have gone hungry on many days while growing up, if it had not been for this pizzeria, and she cried when expressing how good Luigi had been to her. Godspeed to this generous spirit, Luigi Viaggio, your presence is already missed.”

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UPDATE: Fort Greene Man Stabbed and Killed In Farragut Houses; Suspect Remains At Large

UPDATE: According to the FG/CH Patch, Keylester Williams was arrested yesterday, following a four-day search.
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**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
January 9, 2011

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081

Fort Greene Man Stabbed and Killed In Farragut Houses; Suspect Remains At Large

New York, NY— On January 6, 2012, Marcquel McDuffy, 22, was stabbed in the head and chest with a pen knife following a wrestling match with a friend in Fort Greene’s Farragut Houses (NYCHA). According to the victim’s brother, Mr. McDuffy and the suspect (Keylester Williams) had no known conflict between them. Both parties were reportedly inebriated during the attack, which took place around 9:30PM.

Mr. McDuffy, who lived at 177 Sands Street, staggered out of the apartment following the attack and collapsed in a nearby stairwell. He was taken to the nearby Brooklyn Hospital Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. Mr. Williams, reportedly an employee with Duane Reade drug stores, remains at large.

“The senseless murder of this young man is horrific,” said Council Member Letitia James. “I urge residents of Farragut Houses, Fort Greene and Vinegar Hill to work with NYPD to locate the suspect and bring him swiftly to justice.”

Mr. Duffy was a student in a music production program, and wanted to have a career in hip-hop music.

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UPDATE: Crown Heights Woman Killed By Hit-And-Run Driver Along Eastern Parkway on Christmas Day

UPDATE: According to Gothamist, the vehicle has been recovered (although the driver is still at large).
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**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**
December 28, 2011

Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis at (212) 788-7081, (347) 247-3600

Crown Heights Woman Killed By Hit-And-Run Driver Along Eastern Parkway on Christmas Day

(New York, NY)— On Christmas morning, 38-year-old Donna Fountain lost her life after being struck down by a hit-and-run driver on Eastern Parkway near Troy Avenue. The accident occurred around 7:30AM on December 25, 2011. Ms. Fountain and her young son were on their way home following work.

The car that hit Ms. Fountain was grey. Investigators are currently reviewing traffic camera footage to uncover information about the vehicle. Witnesses have reported that the accident may have been related to illegal street-racing nearby.

Ms. Fountain was a home healthcare aid with Partners in Care, as well as the mother to an eight-year-old boy, Elijah. Officials at the scene discovered a list entitled “My Dreams” which included such personal goals as—‘find a great job, buy a house, start a sanctuary for gay and lesbian teens, marry the woman of [Ms. Fountain’s] dreams, and watch [Elijah] graduate from college’.

“To experience such a tragic loss during the Holiday season is devastating,” said Council Member Letitia James. “My heart goes out to the Fountain family and especially young Elijah. I hope the driver(s) think about the family, and comes forward to bring them some closure at this difficult time.”

In early 2011, Tri-State Transportation Campaign (a region-wide advocacy group) found Eastern Parkway to be one of the City’s most dangerous streets for pedestrians— with five fatalities reported at the time of the study. Council Member Letitia James recently requested that the NYC Department of Transportation complete a study to determine the feasibility of a slow zone along Eastern Parkway.

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CM James and Gillespie Family Hold Press Conference; 12/29; 250 Broadway

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** December 28, 2011

Contact: Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191, (646) 201-8183

THE FAMILY OF DELORIS GILLESPIE HELD PRESS CONFERENCE TO DISCUSS TRAGIC MURDER OF THEIR MOTHER, WHO WAS SET ON FIRE

(Brooklyn, NY)- “The family of Deloris Gillespie wanted to speak with media about their mother’s death. Most of the family members have traveled from out of town; therefore I have been supporting them as much as possible. Deloris Gillespie’s family would like to share their mother’s story as they prepare for her memorial service, which is taking place in Brooklyn this week,” said Council Member Letitia James.

A Memorial Service for the beloved Deloris Gillespie was held Friday, December 30 at 12PM at First AME Zion Church, located at 54 Macdonough Street, Brooklyn, NY 11216; (718) 638-3343, (718) 443-3001; www.amez.org

DONATIONS STILL BEING ACCEPTED: FUND SET UP FOR DELORIS GILLESPIE, MURDERED BY FIRE ON SATURDAY IN PROSPECT HEIGHTS, BROOKLYN (MORE FUND DETAILS BELOW)

In light of the horrendous murder of Deloris Gillespie, who was set on fire in her apartment building elevator, the community has set up a rehabilitation fund to assist her family in their time of need.

Council Member James said: “This horrific crime has shocked everyone in New York City, and Carver Federal Savings Bank is accepting donations into a Rehabilitation Fund for Disaster Victims to support the family, which was set up by the community with the assistance of my office. We have come together to support the family of a local resident in need. I believe that it is the responsibility of the community to hold up their neighbors during unfortunate times such as these; we will do whatever we can to make sense of this gruesome crime, and more importantly to help put the lives of the family members of Deloris Gillespie back together. Family and friends remember Deloris as a generous, active member of her community; she fed and clothed the hungry, worked closely with the 77th Precinct Community Council, as well as was a dedicated U.S. Postal Service employee.”

Donations for Deloris Gillespie can be sent to Carver Federal Savings Bank, to the Rehabilitation Fund for Disaster Victims (set up by the community). The account number for deposits is: 801281750. Carver Federal Savings Bank is located at 4 Hanson Place, Brooklyn, NY, 11217. For more information please contact (718) 230-2900.

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*Photo credited to Prospect Heights Patch.

Arrest Made In Fatal Shooting in FG Walt Whitman Housing on 8/23

On Monday, August 23, 2011, Jashaya Stanley (19) was fatally shot following a domestic dispute in Fort Greene's Walt Whitman housing. Ms. Stanley’s boyfriend Joshua Knox (19), who is the father of her 3-year-old daughter, was taken into custody as a suspect yesterday evening.

Ms. Stanley was shot three times in the chest, and was pronounced deceased at Brooklyn Hospital.

Council Member James' public comments from yesterday can be read below--

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Council Member Letitia James Comments on Fatal Shooting in Fort Greene’s Walt Whitman Houses

“The tragic death of such a young woman is senseless and heartbreaking,” said Council Member Letitia James. “Gun violence is one of the most horrifying and preventable crimes in our society. Today, a young child is left without a mother, and a family is forever altered. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the Stanley family for their loss.”

CM James Comments on Death of Leiby Kletzky

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE** July 13, 2011

Contacts: Amyre Loomis at (718) 260-9191

NYC COUNCIL MEMBER LETITIA JAMES DEVASTATED BY SENSELESS DEATH OF ORTHODOX JEWISH BOY

“Residents all over Brooklyn are devastated to learn about the eight-year-old Orthodox Jewish boy from Borough Park whose body was found early this morning. The crime committed against him is absolutely horrific and a tragic fate for all involved. I extend my deepest condolences to the Kletzky family, and want to express gratitude for community support, especially to the Shomrim volunteer patrol, along with the more than 2,000 volunteers from New York and New Jersey who took to the streets to assist the NYPD. My sincerest prayers go out to family and loved ones on this very sad day,” said Council Member James.


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REMEMBERING OUR BELOVED CURTIS RODGERS, A.K.A. “COOKIE,” ON TUESDAY, NOV. 30, & WEDNESDAY, DEC. 1

Cookie told each person he loved them and made everyone smile!

REMEMBERING OUR BELOVED CURTIS RODGERS, A.K.A. “COOKIE”

Loving, kind and funny are some of the words local residents are saying to describe Curtis “Cookie” Rodgers, who could be found helping out at Pioneer Super Market, as well as other shops on Lafayette and Grand Avenues nearly seven days a week.

Cookie passed away on Sunday, November 20 in his mid-50s. His friends, family, coworkers and customers describe him as friendly, community-oriented, uplifting, humorous, and a big-hearted man with a smile on his face always.

A wake will take place for Curtis “Cookie” Rodgers on Tuesday November 30 from 1:00 pm until 7:30 pm at Dekalb Funeral Services (Dekalb and Franklin Avenues), located at 491 Dekalb Avenue, (on the border of Clinton Hill & Bed Stuy) Brooklyn 11205 - (718) 230-3147.

A Funeral Service for Cookie is also planned from 10 am until 12 pm on Wednesday, December 1 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, located at 279 Lafayette Avenue in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn 11238 - (718) 622-1107. A final viewing is scheduled from 9:00 am - 10:00 am prior to the funeral service (also at EBC).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Below are a few comments posted on Facebook about Cookie last week:
“Our friend Cookie died on Sunday. Probably the first person I met when I moved to Clinton Hill back in '05. Lesson: you don't need to have $ or a PhD to show someone you care.”

“RIP”

“I remember Cookie :-( sorry to hear.”

“Many happy bk moments involving cookie!”

“Sorry to hear that. Just remember that you were lucky enough to be in his life, as I am sure he will always be in yours.”

“I remember him too, funny, crazy guy. bless his soul...”

For more information please contact: Tango at Pioneer Super Market - (718) 783-8653, or Dave - (646) 685 9554. If you can help spread the word...we would appreciate it!

CM James, Community Mourn Passing of Mr. William Saunders, former State 57AD District Leader

On Monday, September 27, 2010, former State Committeeman/District Leader of the 57th A.D. William "Bill" Saunders passed away. The Office of Council Member Letitia James has learned that in accordance with the final wishes of Mr. Saunders, a funeral will not be held to celebrate his life. In the very near future, information will be available about a memorial service that will be held in his honor.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent to--

Mr. James Cockerl
1215 Dean Street, 2nd Floor
Brooklyn, N.Y. 11216

PRAYER VIGIL for Cyclist; 9/25; 8PM

PRAYER VIGIL FOR Bicyclist JASMINE HERRON

On September 11, 2010, Jasmine Herron was riding her bicycle on Atlantic between Clinton and Washington Avenues; a motorist opened the car door and knocked Jasmine Herron, 23, into the path of on coming traffic. Unfortunately, the B45 bus hit Jasmine, and she did not survive the accident.

Jasmine was an only child from Denver, Colorado and is survived by her mother. We are asking all bikers to ride their bikes in tribute of Jasmine Herron.

DATE: Saturday, SEPTEMBER 25, 2010
TIME: 8:00 PM
WHERE: ATLANTIC AVENUE & WASHINGTON AVENUE, BROOKLYN, NY

“Again, we have witnessed another fallen rider on the streets of Brooklyn, and sadly here in the 35th Council District. I urge all travelers- drivers, cyclists and pedestrians- to remain careful, and please remember to be cautious and aware of others when traveling,” said Council Member Letitia James.

If you have any questions please call (917) 689-0747.
Sponsored by 77th Precinct Community Council, Community Board 8, Council Member Letitia James, 77th Precinct Community Clergy

Crown Heights Community Group Organize To Address Gun Violence; 9/23; 6PM; Crown Heights

In reaction to two shootings that have took place in Crown Heights on Sunday, September 19th, and Monday, September 20th, S.O.S., a grassroots community organization will be holding a community rally on Thursday, September 23rd at 6PM at Hebron Seventh Day Adventist Church on the corner of Dean and New York Avenues.

For more information, contact ljones@crownheights.org.

Memorial Service for Frank Romeo Saturday in Fort Greene

Please join Council Member Letitia James at a memorial service taking place for Frank Romeo tomorrow in Fort Greene. Read more about the event below.
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From NYT- The Local, "Community members have organized a memorial service for Mr. Romeo tomorrow, September 11, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church, located at 85 South Oxford Street. Mr. Romeo’s family has asked that in lieu of flowers, well-wishers donate money in his name to the Pratt Area Community Council."