DUMBO
Yippee! Michael Burke is taking over the reigns from Phillip Li, former COO, and joining the guys at The Brooklyn Community Foundation as its new COO. Our pal Michael brings a whole lot of experience to the position. “I’ve known Michael through his accomplished work at the Downtown Brooklyn Partnership and his support of the Brooklyn Navy Yard,” said Alan Fishman, chairman of the board. Foundation prez Marilyn Gelber added her two cents, and told Standing O, “Michael’s impressive knowledge and experience will help the Foundation build the resources needed to strengthen Brooklyn’s vital non-profit sector.” And we all know how vital that is.
The Brooklyn Community Foundation [45 Main St. between Front and Water streets in DUMBO (718) 246-6882].
Canarsie
Lifestyles of the famous
It’s never too late too learn — especially about fitness. Directors Nathan Williams and Marianna Hernandez inspired the Let’s Move: Forward Physical Campaign, which offers the residents at the Abe Stark Senior Center an opportunity to put the metal to the pedal and do at least 60 minutes of healthy exercise each day. The seniors — who have a thing or two to teach young whippersnappers, too — took the challenge and far exceeded the expectations of both directors. Our pal Nathan told Standing O, “With this type of programming, people stay active and motivated.” Marianna said that the idea hit her like a ton of bricks when her nine-year-old son became the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award winner at his school last month. She told us, “If my son could do it, why couldn’t the seniors?” She’s also elated that the seniors did so well with the challenge; in fact, one of the center’s oldest residents, 96-year-old Monty Garcia, led the group by riding a stationary bike for at least 30 minutes every day. Whew, Standing O get’s winded after a couple of minutes. Monty told Standing O, “It is an out-of-this-world uplifting experience. It lets you know what you can do, no matter what your age, as long as you use the power of will.” Hey Monty, can you send some of that will power Standing O’s way?
Abe Stark Senior Center [10315 Farragut Rd. between E. 104th and E. 103rd streets in Canarsie, (718) 272-9515].
Bensonhurst
Welcome aboard!
Victor DiBlase, the realtor with the mostest, just joined the gang at The Franzese Group. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in business, our pal Victor worked as a production coordinator in the music industry before taking the leap and jumping into the real estate market. Victor buys and sells properties in Bensonhurst, Dyker Heights, Bay Ridge and Sheepshead Bay. Owner Anthony told us, “Victor knows the market like the back of his hand.” And it’s a good thing!
Weichert Realtors, The Franzese Group [1524 86th St. between 14th and 15th avenues in Bensonhurst, (718) 232-1004].
Williamsburg
Disaster relief
In case of emergency, call volunteer EMT Frank Nauer, who received the Red Cross Disaster Planning and Response Award for exceptional emergency services this past December. Frank joined the Red Cross right after 9/11, and in the last 10 years has become one of the organizations most active volunteers. His role consists of deploying volunteers to emergencies, such as fires and building collapses throughout the city, and providing humanitarian relief to affected residents. His dedication to the Red Cross has pushed him to work four full shifts per week, mainly at night. “Frank is a truly amazing volunteer,” said Charles Wells, director of the Greater NY Red Cross. Standing O is glad that Frank has Brooklyn’s back.
Reach reporter Joanna DelBuono at jdelbuono@cnglocal.com or by calling (718) 260-2523.
