Contact: Sunny Mindel/Jennifer Chait (212) 788-2958
The next bill before me, Introductory Number 530, sponsored by Council Members Lasher, Abel and O'Donovan, would add through the posting of an additional sign, the name "Sidney Jonas Bandshell" to the bandshell in Asser Levy Park, in Brooklyn.
Sidney Jonas was born in Poland in 1904 and in 1922, he and his family settled in Brooklyn. As a young man Sidney secured a job as a laborer in a shoe factory. At his new job, he became sensitive to the poor working conditions endured by his co-workers. This inspired him to become a labor advocate.
In addition to his efforts and contributions on behalf of workers in the field of shoe manufacturing, Sidney Jonas fought for the rights of workers in the automobile and airline industries.
Mr. Jonas retired from the shoemaking business in the 1960's and immersed himself in community activism. He was active in various organizations and spent many years in a successful effort to attract musical talent to perform at the bandshell in Asser Levy Park.
On November 22, 1998, at the age of 94, Sidney Jonas passed away.
While Mr. Jonas and I had sometimes disagreed on issues of public policy, he also compared me to Presidents Reagan and Bush, which I consider a compliment.
In view of the community's support for memorializing Mr. Jonas' contributions to his neighborhood, it is fitting that the bandshell in Asser Levy Park be named "Sidney Jonas Bandshell".
For the reasons previously stated, I will now sign the bill.