There was a whole lot of love in Borough Hall on Friday.
Borough President Adams celebrated Brooklyn’s “golden couples” — those who have been married for more than 50 years — at a reception ahead of Valentine’s Day complete with a catered lunch, dancing, and a sparkling wine toast.
One of the veteran husbands shared his secret for a long and prosperous matrimony.
“Two words,” said David Hammerman, who lives with his wife Gail in Midwood. “Yes, ma’am.”
Gail agreed that her husband’s servility is an important factor in keeping the couple together, but she also pointed to a fiscal consideration.
“The other thing is a joint bank account,” Gail Hammerman said. “He puts some money in, and I take it out.”
The Beep said the 150 partners attending his celebration have spent a combined 8,000 years together, an accomplishment worthy of a toast.
“Brooklyn’s golden couples are a shining example of the power of love and commitment for happy, healthy lives,” Adams said. “Celebrations like these remind us of the values of family that make our borough an inviting place for all lovers, both young and young at heart.”
Alla and Yuriy Natkovich live in Brighton Beach and have been married for 54 years. The husband said it was nice to see the Beep going out of his way to celebrate some of Brooklyn’s most committed couples.
“I really appreciate that Eric Adams does this,” said Yuriy Natkovich. “It’s a big job and it’s not easy. That’s a lot of people.”
Gail Hammerman, who has three children and five grandchildren, enjoyed the chance to see all the couples together under one roof.
“It’s beautiful to see such vibrant dynamic couples,” she said. “Being able to sustain a relationship over a period of time takes a lot of hard work.”
When pressed about the secret to her and her husband’s golden commitment, she said the little things matter most.
“It’s a mutual respect, and it’s civility. Saying good morning. A kiss hello. It’s the simple things that make a difference,” she said.
