A Bay Ridge resident is in critical condition after he was rescued from an apartment fire on Saturday. The blaze broke out just before 4 p.m. in a second-floor apartment at the corner of 91st Street and Third Avenue, according to the FDNY, trapping 89-year-old Richard Martin inside. Firefighters crawled through thick smoke and flames to find and rescue an unconscious Martin, who was reportedly treated on the scene before being rushed to Staten Island University Hospital.
"I have wanted to bring my dog to a blessing of the animals his entire life. I told him, 'I know you guys do a pantry for people here, but would you be interested in doing one about dogs, but for seniors?'"
Gerard Bell, co-owner of Skinflints, expressed gratitude towards his staff, saying, "I will always give credit to the staff, because I'm just one guy. I'm just a coach. They do everything."
The revamped Russell Pedersen Playground, dedicated to U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Russell Pedersen, features colorful interactive play structures, fitness equipment, swings, and a water play area.
"What's so appealing about Bay Ridge and Fifth Avenue especially is its diversity. It's a small town in a big city. Everyone knows each other, and that's why Bay Ridge is so special," BID Executive Director Elizabeth Lovejoy told the Eagle at last year's milestone festival.
"It has been one of the greatest joys of my life to watch your families grow, celebrate milestones with you, and share in so many meals, laughs and even tears," she wrote. "I've made friendships through Blue Door that I will forever cherish."
"Mary loved this community and the people in it, and she was fearless in demanding the best of the people who served it," said Brannan. "She earned the respect of so many and will be deeply missed."