In Marty’s defense

To The Editor:

Re: “Marty defends taking Ratner’s money,” (10-23 issue).

I write this letter in support of Marty, a dedicated, hardworking, concerned, caring and a totally committed individual who lovingly and with great heart serves his constituents in Brooklyn, and makes all their lives better, more meaningful, eventful and exciting.

From the days he was a state senator and continuing through today, where he tirelessly serves as Brooklyn borough president, Marty is all Brooklyn. As a person, who was born in Brownsville (Kings County Hospital), reared in East New York, lived in Midwood after I graduated from collage and married, now in my senior years residing in Sheepshead Bay (across the water from Manhattan Beach), I respect, honor and thank Marty for all that he has done, and continues to do for all individuals in Brooklyn.

If he uses private donations to help finance the worthwhile good deeds, that positively adds to the lives of his constituents, then that is okay with me and, I am certain, with the majority (if not all) of the residents of Brooklyn.

Just being at one of his Summer Concerts (Seaside Park), or Wingate Field (Martin Luther King Concerts), and seeing the thousands of Brooklynites attending, sitting on folding chairs, beach chairs, the bleachers, the lawn, on blankets, standing on the boardwalk, or infield, or along the streets, is more than worth the donated money used.

Marty is more than the concerts. He has changed Brooklyn in so many different ways, as are noted in his article, that many organizations, community groups, etc., have honored him. In fact, two years ago, my organization, Brighton-Atlantic Unit of B’nai B’rith, which has never received or given funds to Marty’s charities, presented him with their most prestigious award – “The Sons of the Covenant.” This award is presented, annually, to a community leader, elected official, dignitary, individual, etc., who has made a difference in their neighborhood, district, community or borough; an individual who, through his actions, involvement and good deeds has positively changed the lives of so many different and diverse individuals.