News

NYC’s Pollinator Port Project Transforming City Landscapes for Native Bees

BQE Admin on May 2, 2024

Department of Transportation

Ydanis Rodriguez, NYC DOT Commissioner, announces the launch of the Pollinator Port Project during Earth Week, highlighting the city’s commitment to supporting native bee populations.

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

In a bid to bolster urban biodiversity and support at-risk native bee populations, the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), in collaboration with The Horticultural Society of New York (The Hort) and Rutgers University, has launched the Pollinator Port Project.

Unveiled during Earth Week, this initiative aims to create habitats for native bees in select NYC DOT public plazas and Open Streets, deploying innovative structures like ‘bee hotels’ and ‘bee bunkers’ alongside strategic vegetation plantings.

“Bees are essential for the health of our planet, and this initiative will create habitats for at-risk native bee populations and help facilitate important scientific research,” NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez said.

The Pollinator Port Project is poised to transform NYC’s bustling streetscapes into havens for bees, promoting biodiversity and ecological resilience within the city. These efforts align with the United Nations’ Environment Program’s emphasis on the critical role of bees in sustaining life and biodiversity.

“We are thrilled to work with DOT to support bringing pollinators to NYC public plazas and open streets, and to share more with New Yorkers about the pollinators that help their green public spaces thrive,” stated Georgia Faulkner, senior director of partnerships, programming, and public space at The Horticultural Society of New York.

The project’s scientific underpinning comes from Rutgers University’s expertise, led by Dr. Kimberly N. Russell. By integrating science and design, the team is crafting habitats – Bee Bunkers and Bee Barrels tailored to meet the specific needs of native bee populations.

“Most bee species cannot live in hives, so we need to give them other materials to build their homes,” Russel said. “Our hope is that these Pollinator Ports connect green spaces, giving bees the resources, they need to move around the city and pollinate our flowers.”

The initiative also carries significant educational and community engagement components. The Hort, known for its commitment to greening urban spaces, will oversee the installation and maintenance of these habitats across the city. Additionally, Rutgers University will conduct research on the movement and behavior of bees in urban environments, fostering a deeper understanding of their ecological significance.

Department of Transportation

Bee Bunkers: Burrowing bees find refuge in these protected soil chambers, providing safe nesting grounds for their eggs until spring.

This groundbreaking project has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Ittleson Foundation, which provided a $50,000 grant to Rutgers for the first three years of the study.

The Pollinator Port Project will encompass several NYC DOT plazas and Open Streets, including Parkside Plaza and Gates Ave in Brooklyn and 34th Ave in Queens.

Bee hotels, resembling birdhouses filled with natural materials like reeds and bamboo, offer ‘rooms’ for solitary bees to nest and rest, where female bees lay eggs and provide food for developing larvae. These hotels will be strategically placed in planted areas of public plazas and Open Streets, facilitating bee movement across boroughs.

Alternatively, bee bunkers provide protected soil for female bees to build nests and lay eggs, ensuring the safety of developing larvae until spring. Burrowing bees, known for their docile nature, tend to forage within a few blocks of their habitat. These bunkers will be situated within existing planters to minimize interactions with people.

Anthony C. Wood, executive director of the Ittleson Foundation, lauded the initiative, stating, “Turning public plazas and open streets into habitat for at-risk bees is brilliant and exactly the type of innovative environmental model we love to support.”

Mackenzie Pitt, Communications Manager at the Horticultural Society of New York, sheds light on the collaborative effort behind the Pollinator Port Project, which seeks to create havens for at-risk native bee populations within the urban expanse of New York City. The initiative, born out of a partnership between Rutgers University, The Hort, and the NYC Department of Transportation (DOT), aims to address the pressing need for habitats that support pollinators, particularly native bee species, in the city’s concrete jungle.

“The polio project is a collaboration of Rutgers, the Horticultural Society, and DOT, made possible by a grant from the Ittleson Foundation,” Pitt explains. “It’s both a research and a social experiment and that there’s never been this form of installing the habitats for native bees in this way. It’s all about creating.”

Pitt underscores the significance of these habitats for native bee populations, emphasizing their role in sustaining the city’s ecological balance.

“These native species are the ones that take care of our native flora and allow for humans to benefit from all the needs and benefits we get from plants, particularly our native plant species,” Pitt said.

With New York City’s landscape predominantly characterized by concrete, the provision of suitable habitats becomes imperative to prevent the decline of these essential pollinators.

Reflecting on the project’s origins, Pitt highlights The Hort’s mission to “green the in-between,” bringing verdant spaces to unconventional urban locales. Through their partnership with DOT and community engagement initiatives, The Hort has been instrumental in maintaining green spaces in various neighborhoods across the city, laying the groundwork for the Pollinator Port Project.

The project’s expansion underscores a broader commitment to enhancing green spaces and fostering ecological resilience in urban environments. By harnessing the power of collaboration and innovation, NYC aims to become a beacon for biodiversity conservation and sustainable urban development.

Department of Transportation

Bee Hotels: Resembling birdhouses, these structures offer solitary bees ‘rooms’ to nest and rest, aiding in the conservation of native bee populations in urban environments.

Understanding Injury & Tort Laws (Brooklyn Follows NYS Laws)

webadmin on May 1, 2024

In New York City, injury law is a crucial aspect of the legal system that aims to protect individuals who have suffered harm due to the negligence or wrongdoing of others. Whether it’s a slip and fall accident, a car collision, medical malpractice, or any other unfortunate incident resulting in injury, understanding the basics of injury law is essential. This article will provide an overview of injury law in NYC, highlighting key concepts and procedures to help individuals navigate the legal landscape and protect their rights.

Negligence and Personal Injury Claims:

Injury cases in NYC are often based on the legal principle of negligence. Negligence occurs when a person or entity fails to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm or damage to another person. To establish a personal injury claim, the injured party must prove four essential elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. In other words, it must be demonstrated that the defendant owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and that the breach directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries, resulting in damages.

Statute of Limitations:

In New York City, there is a statute of limitations that sets a time limit for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Generally, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is three years from the date of the accident or injury. However, it is crucial to consult with an attorney promptly, as there are exceptions and variations depending on the circumstances and the type of injury.

Comparative Negligence:

New York follows the doctrine of comparative negligence, which means that even if the injured party is partially at fault for the accident, they may still be entitled to recover damages. Nevertheless, the compensation awarded will be diminished commensurately with the individual’s degree of responsibility. For example, if a court determines that the plaintiff is 20% responsible for their injuries, their compensation will be reduced by 20%.

No-Fault Insurance:

New York is a no-fault insurance state. This means that in the case of a motor vehicle accident, individuals must first seek compensation from their own insurance company, regardless of who was at fault. However, if the injuries meet certain thresholds defined by the law, such as significant disfigurement, bone fracture, or permanent loss of a bodily function, The party who has sustained injuries may have the option to initiate a legal action against the at-fault party.

Seeking Legal Representation:

Navigating injury (aka tort) law in NYC can be complex, and legal representation is highly recommended. An experienced personal injury lawyer can guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights. They will work to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

In conclusion, understanding injury law in New York City is crucial for protecting your rights if you have suffered harm due to someone else’s negligence. Remember, consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney in Aronov Law is essential to navigate the legal complexities and advocate for your best interests.

Contributed By: Aronov Law NY141-24 Jewel Ave Fl 2, Queens, NY 11367 (718) 682-3480. An Award Winning Personal Injury & Accident Lawyer in Queens, NY.

Greek Kitchen Opens in Greenpoint

BQE Admin on April 29, 2024

By John Sanchez & Yasin Akdag

New Fast-Casual Mediterranean Restaurant, Greek Kitchen, delivers a healthy alternative on a block lined with fast-food chains

The Brooklyn Star News team visited Greek Kitchen, a new Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant at 912 Manhattan Ave.in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Led by partners Lukas Georgiadis and George Konstantaras, Greek Kitchen is a sit-down restaurant that offers fresh Mediterranean cuisine with a modern Greek-themed interior.

Greek Kitchen is passionate about representing Greek culture, and it truly shows in the effort that was put into its interior design. As soon as you step foot inside, the bright blue and white colors and the photos of Greece make you feel as if you have been transported to Greece.

Cooking is a tradition in their families, and many Greek Kitchen recipes were handed down by the yia-yias (grandmas) in the family.

With over 25 years of experience in the food and hospitality industry, Georgiadis and Konstantaras have built strong relationships with the best food vendors in the country; including Optimo and Mega.

“Sourcing ingredients such as virgin feta cheese, organic honey from Crete, olives, and oregano straight from Greece helps us attain the high quality that our customers deserve“, said Georgiadis.

“There aren’t a ton of fresh and organic food options on this block, so we’re excited to bring a fresh Mediterranean experience to Greenpoint – right next to the G train,” said Konstantaras.

The stars of Greek Kitchen‘s menu are The Gyro and The Souvlaki; loaded with fresh and generous cuts of lamb and chicken, respectively, creamy tzatziki, onion, and crispy french fries.

I loved the tantalizing blend of flavors and textures of The Classic Lamb Gyro, and John indulged in the juicy marinated meats of a Chicken Souvlaki. Each bite was a “symphony of Mediterranean goodness,” John exclaimed.

Definitely don’t sleep on Greek Kitchen’s Whipped Spicy Feta—a creamy blend of tangy feta cheese and fiery spices that packs a punch. We spread it on warm pita bread and it was a uniquely delicious kick to the mouth.

Greenpoint is populated with many European immigrants, especially Polish residents, but as the community continues to grow, Greek Americans and other nationalities have found their way to Brooklyn.

Beyond the food, Greek Kitchen embodies the spirit of community and culture. “It’s not just a place to eat; it’s an immersive cultural experience that invites guests to savor the flavors of Greece while celebrating the diversity of Greenpoint,” said Georgiadis.

Georgiadis and Konstantaras brought on long-time friends, Manny Lazanakis and Jimmy Stathakis, to become partners in Greek Kitchen; and all of the partners add value in unique ways.

With its dedication to quality, flavor, and community, Greek Kitchen is poised to become a beloved neighborhood institution.

Be sure to visit Greek Kitchen located at 912 Manhattan Ave in Greenpoint for more tasty Greek food!

Queens and Brooklyn Embrace LockerNYC Expansion

BQE Admin on April 19, 2024

Courtesy NYC.gov

City officials unveil LockerNYC initiative to combat package theft and transform delivery logistics, promising a safer and more efficient future for New Yorkers.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

In a bid to tackle the rampant issue of package theft and alleviate the burgeoning congestion caused by delivery trucks, city officials have unveiled LockerNYC, a pioneering initiative set to revolutionize the way New Yorkers send and receive packages.

Data reveals that 80 percent of households in New York City receive at least one delivery per week, with 20 percent receiving four or more deliveries. Additionally, each day witnesses 90,000 reported instances of packages being stolen or lost in transit within the city, often exacerbated by the absence of secure areas in many buildings for package deliveries.

Mayor Eric Adams declared the launch of LockerNYC as a pivotal step towards safeguarding residents’ deliveries.

“New Yorkers deserve convenient deliveries without rampant theft and unhealthy pollution. With the LockerNYC pilot, our administration is delivering a creative solution that address all three,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Shared lockers are a proven model that will serve our economy, our health, and our quality of life – and this is just the beginning.”

The LockerNYC program, operating on a one-year pilot basis, offering a solution by installing secure public delivery lockers strategically across the city. These lockers, standing at six-and-a-half feet tall and adorned in green, have the capacity to store up to 25 packages simultaneously and are accessible to multiple delivery carriers, including UPS and DHL.

In Queens and Brooklyn, the LockerNYC initiative has strategically positioned its secure public delivery lockers at key locations to serve the diverse communities of these boroughs. In Sunnyside, Queens, residents can access the lockers conveniently situated at 47-01 49th Street, outside the Cosmopolitan Houses apartments, providing a secure and accessible option for package deliveries. Meanwhile, in Brooklyn, multiple neighborhoods benefit from locker installations. In Bedford-Stuyvesant, residents can utilize the lockers outside the Ideal Food Basket grocery store at 830 Lafayette Avenue. In Canarsie, lockers are available at 1380 Rockaway Parkway, offering a reliable solution for package storage. Similarly, in East Flatbush, lockers stand at 1086 Brooklyn Avenue, also located outside an Ideal Food Basket grocery store. Additionally, in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, lockers are conveniently positioned at 2036 Bedford Avenue, enhancing the safety and convenience of package deliveries for local residents.

Plans are underway for the expansion of LockerNYC with additional locations slated to open in Queens and Brooklyn at later dates.

“New Yorkers deserve to receive their deliveries safely, efficiently and sustainably,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “As New Yorkers continue to enjoy e-commerce, we are using every tool in our toolbox to reduce the number of trucks on our streets and mitigate congestion at the curb.”

The initiative, spearheaded by the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), aims not only to curb package theft but also to mitigate the adverse environmental and safety impacts associated with the surge in delivery truck traffic.

Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez underscored the significance of this endeavor.

“As the number of at-home deliveries have surged in recent years, so have the number of large delivery trucks on our city streets,” Rodriguez said. “The LockerNYC initiative will help reduce the number of trips delivery trucks make each day while also providing a secure place for New Yorkers to receive packages.”

Drawing inspiration from successful models implemented in other cities, such as Seattle, where similar locker programs significantly reduced delivery truck idling and emissions, LockerNYC promises a multifaceted approach to address New York City’s logistical challenges.

To ensure the security and efficacy of the lockers, each installation will be equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance systems, LED lighting, and anti-theft mechanisms. GoLocker, the vendor overseeing the operation and maintenance of the lockers, will provide round-the-clock support and management.

As the LockerNYC pilot unfolds, city officials remain optimistic about its potential to reshape the urban delivery landscape. With plans for extensive evaluation and data collection throughout the pilot phase, NYC DOT aims to refine and expand the program, paving the way for a more sustainable and secure future in package delivery across the city.

“As package theft continues to adversely impact our communities, LockerNYC is an innovative solution that will provide every New Yorker with the safe and secure deliveries they deserve,” said New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn.

BQE Redevelopment Initiative Receives $5.6M Federal Grant to Bridge Neighborhood Divides

glendaleregstg on March 27, 2024

Examples of treatments that could be applied to BQE North and South. Credit: Department of Transportation

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

The U.S. Department of Transportation has greenlit a $5.6 million grant to propel forward a transformative redesign of the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway’s (BQE) North and South corridors, Brooklyn elected officials revealed. For nearly seven decades, the BQE, colloquially referred to as the “trench,” has severed neighborhoods like South Williamsburg and Sunset Park, fostering environmental hazards and health concerns due to noise, pollution, and heightened levels of respiratory illnesses.

This substantial grant, announced on March 12, aims to mend these urban scars, fostering community cohesion while mitigating the adverse environmental and economic impacts stemming from the daily influx of approximately 150,000 vehicles along the expressway.

Brooklyn representatives, alongside the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway Environmental Justice Coalition, a consortium comprising 17 community groups spanning northern to southern Brooklyn, have waged a sustained campaign to rectify the infrastructural rifts caused by the BQE’s inception, led by the influential urban planner Robert Moses. In a unified statement on the 12th, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Rep. Dan Goldman (NY-10), Rep. Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand lauded the decision, highlighting their concerted efforts to prioritize the “BQE Connects: Advancing the BQE North and South Corridor Vision” grant.

“This grant is the catalyst we need to finally put together a comprehensive plan to reimagine the entire BQE corridor and to address environmental justice issues that plague the northern and southern portions of the expressway,” the officials stated. “Our offices will work to ensure this is just the beginning of the federal government’s investment in the BQE with fairness and justice at the forefront.”

Echoing this sentiment, the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway Environmental Justice Coalition emphasized a clear vision to reshape the BQE into a space prioritizing the well-being of all affected communities, pledging to advocate for environmentally conscious decision-making in future infrastructure planning. Notably, the grant’s approval follows Mayor Eric Adams’ announcement, heralding a significant step toward rectifying the historical disunity sewed by the BQE’s construction.

Governor Kathy Hochul and state DOT Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez reaffirmed their dedication to collaborative efforts with the community and governmental stakeholders in this endeavor. Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi lauded the city’s Federal Infrastructure Task Force for crafting exemplary grant applications, which also secured a $117 million federal grant to advance the QueensWay project, a park initiative situated on a disused corridor of the former LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch. However, a contentious $800 million NYC DOT grant proposal aimed at rebuilding the deteriorating BQE Central section, stretching from Atlantic Avenue to Sands Street, was recently rebuffed. NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez expressed eagerness to explore various initiatives in consultation with Brooklyn residents along the BQE, envisioning possibilities like highway capping, street redesigns, and other enhancements to the corridor.

Notably, NYC DOT has orchestrated workshops to solicit ideas for enhancing areas adjacent to the BQE North and South, emphasizing community engagement in envisioning the future of these regions. According to DOT’s release, proposed treatments for BQE North and South encompass full or partial highway capping, pedestrian infrastructure enhancements, intersection and ramp optimizations, and under-elevated improvements. At least two proposals, each addressing BQE North and South, will progress to partial design, laying the groundwork for further collaboration between DOT and NYSDOT to foster community reconnection initiatives across the corridor.

Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul aimed financing planning endeavors to enhance the quality of life for residents residing in proximity to the BQE, particularly those hailing from disadvantaged communities. This grant will facilitate the exploration of proposals to revitalize connectivity in the local transportation network, bolstering accessibility to employment, amenities, and green spaces while fortifying safety measures for pedestrians and cyclists.

The comprehensive efforts outlined Mayor Adams’ overarching BQE Corridor Vision, underscoring a commitment to collaborate with communities along Brooklyn’s sole interstate highway, redressing longstanding divides and addressing critical infrastructure challenges within the city-owned BQE Central stretch between Atlantic Avenue and Sands Street.

LTE: Pols must ensure Medicare Advantage is fully funded

glendaleregstg on March 22, 2024

Dear Editor,
As we age, the importance of maintaining our health becomes increasingly paramount. This often brings new concerns for many seniors like me, especially about being able to afford the necessary care to sustain our quality of life. Fortunately, Medicare Advantage has supported me in addressing these concerns.

When I had to get my kidney removed a few years ago, my doctor prescribed five medications to take daily. I was immediately concerned about how the cost of these medications would affect my finances. Fortunately, my Medicare Advantage plan included prescription drug coverage, so I was able to afford the medications I needed. Since then, I have been able to access a large network of providers to help me navigate life after surgery. These doctors have been remarkable in helping me stay healthy, and it gives me peace of mind knowing that I have a low monthly premium and all out-of-pocket expenses are capped. The top-notch value that Medicare Advantage provides is truly immeasurable. And I’m not the only one. Nearly 2 million New Yorkers, including seniors and people with disabilities, count on this program for their health care coverage. With rising costs in mind, I hope that leaders will see just how important access to quality care at an affordable price is to me and many other seniors. That is why I encourage them to work together to ensure Medicare Advantage is fully funded.

Diane Sanders
East New York

BRIC offers platform for artistic expression

wpengine on March 21, 2024

Jelani Johnson, Master Control Operator showcasing BRIC’s public network channels. Photo by Mohamed Farghaly

By Mohamed Farghaly

For over four decades, BRIC has long been an essential part of Brooklyn’s cultural

landscape, providing creative stimulation and community engagement at its center.

BRIC serves as a non-profit energetic gathering point where individuals come to

express themselves artistically, explore media concepts, or simply build connections

within their local community.

The mission of the Brooklyn art space has been the same since its founding in 1979,

and that includes helping produce contemporary visual and performing art, media

production, and civic action. Their goal has long been to have a hand in shaping

Brooklyn’s cultural and media landscape as a creative accelerator and providing

programs and initiatives for artists of all ages to participate.

“BRIC is the hub for community media in Brooklyn and a public access media center,

but we are also an arts and culture organization,” said Martiza Carmona, Director of

Government Affairs. “And I think that’s what makes us really unique. It is the

only model of its kind in New York City.”

In the 2022-23 season, BRIC made a significant impact, engaging 170,092

individuals through their diverse range of events and programs. Their reach

extended far beyond Brooklyn, reaching 44 states and 14 countries through multi-

platform initiatives. Collaborating with 44 educational institutions and

organizations, alongside 30 teaching artists, they provided educational

opportunities to 4,168 Brooklyn students and involved 539 community producers

through Brooklyn Free Speech, culminating in a win and five nominations at the NY

Emmys.

Visitors will discover an exciting environment at BRIC House, the primary venue of

this institution, featuring media centers accessible to the public, galleries dedicated

to contemporary art, TV studios equipped with state-of-the-art filming equipment,

performance areas and workspaces for artists and public media centers – making

BRIC an integral part of Brooklyn culture and society for decades.

“We have a massive production team that are trained, producers, directors,

technicians, audio engineers, in house, we have all of that talent in house,” Carmona

said. “And a lot of that talent has come up through our community media arm,

because we have trained them, they have taken our classes, they have been certified

here, and then we hire them.”

The art hub prides itself on its dedication to diversity, inclusion and equity as seen

through its efforts to foster environments which recognize, respect and celebrate all

human beings. Through partnerships with government agencies, corporate partners

and foundations, BRIC receives wide support for its programs and missions.

BRIC’s workforce initiatives aim to strengthen communities and individuals alike

through providing practical skills training in media production, digital literacy and

arts education – providing practical skills training programs designed to address

pressing social issues while aiding underserved populations.

BRIC provides an essential link between arts, media, and community development –

the arts as a source of cultural enrichment – and public dialogue to foster belonging

and connections across diverse communities in Brooklyn. Through public dialogues,

cultural exchange, artistic expression and artistic performances; BRIC continues to

enrich our cultural landscape.

The organization stands out as an institution committed to shaping Brooklyn’s

creative future creatively, serving as its premier arts, media, and education

institution, one of the only of its kind.

“As a leading arts and culture institution anchored in Brooklyn, BRIC fosters an

evolving workplace focused on the growth of our staff while developing arts, media,

and cultural programs that reflect our core values,” said Wes Jackson, President of BRIC. “We embrace curiosity and wisdom to leverage the expertise of our diverse

staff and community members and embody our commitment to the arts and

diversity.”

BRIC prides itself on its ability to quickly adapt and evolve in response to shifting

cultural, societal and demographic dynamics, including technological innovation and

demographic shifts. BRIC strives to stay at the forefront of innovation and

inclusivity initiatives to maintain relevance and impact throughout its region.

The non-profit remains dedicated to education as one of its core missions, working

closely with schools, youth organizations, and community centers across New York

City to offer arts and media instruction for children of all ages to explore their

creative side while developing essential life skills.

BRIC also hosts events and activities outside its core programming that cater to

audiences of all kinds and interests, from film screenings and panel discussions,

workshops, artist talks and more – something is always happening at BRIC that

inspires, educates and entertains.

Their most recent initiative is the ‘Aftermath’, a strategic partnership and space rental that explores the

interplay between data and art, inviting artists to delve into the aftermath of

historical events through the lens of information collected and interpreted, shedding

light on how these narratives shape our understanding of the past, present, and

future.

At BRIC, enrolled artists benefit from a range of services, from media production

training to access to state-of-the-art facilities, all provided free of charge through

their 17 million dollar annual budget. They rely upon the support of individuals,

foundations and government agencies for its operations as a nonprofit organization.

Their contributions of funds or time help deliver its vital work while expanding its

outreach.

BRIC stands out as more than just a cultural institution – it serves as an engine of

creativity, community building and social transformation. Through innovative

programs, inclusive approaches and unyielding commitment to excellence it

enriches countless individuals while adding vibrancy and vitality to Brooklyn. To

learn more about BRIC, please visit bricartsmedia.org.

“BRIC is committed to creating environments that honor, respect, and celebrate the

humanity of all people,” Jackson said. “We support our artistic and creative

communities in their efforts to affect positive social change in Brooklyn and

beyond.

BRIC President Wes Jackson emphasizes BRIC’s dedication to creativity, diversity
and social impact both locally and beyond the borders of Brooklyn.

Brooklynites can learn more about creativity in their community thanks to three Macon Library librarians.

glendaleregstg on March 20, 2024

From left to right are Peter Enzinna, Riann Roca, and Krishna Paul

by Lauren Peacock | news@queensledger.com

Although some people think a library is just an archive of reading and writing, three librarians at Macon Library in Bedford-Stuyvesant (Bed-Stuy) are showing Brooklyn that it is so much more.

It is safe to say that Riann Roca, Peter Enzinna, and Krishna Paul have mastered the world of books. But once they witnessed the vessel that their workplace was for conversation, connection, culture, and community, they could not keep it to themselves. They came together to create the podcast Bed-Stuy Tea, a safe space to spotlight locals and give them the credit they deserve.

“There’s a really vibrant creative life that’s making use of the library and that’s taking place around the library,” said Enzinna. “I think we just wanted to tap into that and kind of have more conversations and get those conversations out there with the people in our neighborhood who are making art, making food, making life in the community a little more vibrant every day.”

The hosts on Bed-Stuy Tea interview Bed-Stuy residents to talk about their favorite books, creative projects, careers, etc. The podcast aims to show that everyone has a story, or stories, depending on what stage of life they are in. Bed-Stuy Tea allows locals to learn new things about their community and listen to interesting and true stories.

“Bed-Stuy is such a mixing pot of different cultures, people, and history … .We learn so many different things every day just sitting at the desk and speaking to the community,” said Krishna Paul. “So it was just a way to introduce Bed-Stuy to the rest of New York and the rest of Brooklyn and give them a little taste of what we have every day.”

The podcast has put out seven episodes since April, interviewing young adult Author Ashley Woodfolk, Senior Digital Editor at PBS NewsHour Aaron Foley, Owner-Operator of Wadadli Jerk Edwin-Hughes, and more. The podcast hosts meet their guests at Macon Library, whether they stop by to check out a book, say hello, attend a workshop, use its digital and interactive resources, etc.

“Since we are located in Bed-Stuy we are already part of a very vibrant and artistic community, so that had a huge influence on us starting the podcast,” said Roca. “We would meet people on the desks who were artists, authors, chefs, etc…Having the podcast we’re able to have a deeper conversation with them to see who they are in the community and share their art, their writing, etc. with the community.”

Bed-Stuy Tea is part of Brooklyn Community Audio, a network of Brooklyn Public Library staff and patrons. It is produced by Brooklyn Public Library’s Senior Audio Producer Virgina Marshall. Brooklyn Public Library has other podcasts, including an award-winning flagship podcast called Borrowed. Borrowed and Marshall was a huge inspiration to the hosts in creating Bed-Stuy Tea.

When the idea to create a podcast hit, Roca, Enzinna, and Paul taught themselves the skills they needed to know when it comes to podcasting.

“They just found something interesting and they taught themselves basically how to interview, how to write scripts, how to record, how to edit audio, etc. with some help from our professional producer on the staff,” said Fritzi Bodenheimer, Brooklyn Public Library Press Officer.

The three librarians used the gear that they had on hand at the library including recorders, microphones, editing software, etc. These resources and more including two recording studios are available to anyone with a library card, which is completely free.

“The library is like a platform of platforms. It connects people to resources and programs and capabilities that they might not know they have but that are all out there for public use as long as you have a card,” said Enzinna.

In Bed-Stuy Tea’s upcoming season, the hosts will interview local restaurant owners in a segment titled “Á La Carte”, including Chef Amadeus Broger-Hetzner of La Antagonista located in the heart of Bed-Stuy. The hosts say they enjoyed interviewing Broger-Hetzner because he was humble, gracious, and they learned a lot about him as he talked about his stories, influences, and experiences.

The hosts are also working on a new segment for March about Women’s History Month and will continue to discuss the library’s significance in bringing people and new ideas together.

Letter From the Editor: March 10, 2024

Christine Stoddard on March 11, 2024

Dear readers,

This is my last letter as editor. I have resigned from my position. Opportunities in film, theatre, and comedy are knocking on my door and I have to answer. Want to support me? Stream my arthouse movie “Sirena’s Gallery” on Tubi. Watch my talk show “Badass Lady-Folk” on YouTube @badassladyfolk or listen on podcast platforms. The comedy TV show I co-host with Aaron Gold is on YouTube @dontmindtheshow. Our next episode is on psychics! Keep up with me on Instagram at @stoddardsays. Visit my website at WorldOfChristineStoddard.com for more to stream or a live show schedule. If you are a producer or casting director, I’m on Backstage and Casting Networks.

Thanks so much for your support!

Best,

Christine Stoddard