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).
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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."

CM James Holds Vigil in Honor of Aileen McKay-Dalton

On the evening of July 14th, Council member Letitia James held a candlelight vigil honoring the late Aileen McKay-Dalton. Last Thursday, Aileen McKay-Dalton was traveling by motor scooter and was struck by an SUV vehicle at DeKalb and Clinton Avenues in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.

A crowd of over 75 people deemed the Fort Greene resident a pillar of her community and a dear friend. Mrs. McKay-Dalton leaves behind a husband and three children, as well as many friends and acquaintances who were touched by her warmth and generosity. "Aileen really loved living in Brooklyn...we're going to miss her forever", said a friend of the family. "She touched everybody that she met", said another friend.

To date, the NYPD has declined to investigate this incident and has ruled there was no crime committed. Council Member Letitia James believes that the NYPD mishandled the initial investigation by ruling that there was no criminality even though witnesses say the vehicle that hit Mrs. McKay-Dalton was speeding and had run a red light.

We applaud the efforts of Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes for conducting his own criminal investigation into the awful death of the Ms. McKay-Dalton. However, Council Member James is also urging Mayor Bloomberg and Commissioner Kelly to carry out a NYPD investigation looking into the circumstances surrounding this terrible accident.

If you are interested in joining Council Member James in requesting an investigation, please sign our petition by visiting the following link:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/fgvestaaccidentjustice

It is evident that this tragic traffic accident has deeply touched the neighborhoods of Fort Greene and Clinton Hill. The thoughts and prayers of the entire community are with the family during this most difficult time.

CM James Calls for Investigation into Fatal Scooter Accident

**For Immediate Release**
Contact: Aja Worthy-Davis (212) 788-7081

Council Member Letitia James Calls for Investigation into Fatal Scooter Accident

(Brooklyn, NY)— At 5:30 p.m. on July 8, 2010, a 40-year-old woman traveling by motor scooter was struck by an SUV vehicle that ran a red light near DeKalb and Clinton Avenues in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. As a result of the incident, the woman sustained fatal injuries.

At this time, the individual driving the SUV has been neither identified nor placed under arrest by the NYPD. Additionally, it is believed that the driver is currently a member of a federal law enforcement agency. It is unclear whether this individual was traveling at the time in an official capacity.

“This tragedy claimed the life of an innocent individual. The NYPD must investigate the circumstances of this incident, and communicate openly with the victim's family, my office, and the community at large,” said Fort Greene Council Member Letitia James. “I am calling for an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. The thoughts and prayers of the entire community are with the family during this most difficult time.”