Celebrating Earth Day 2019 - Doing Our Part to Protect the Environment

Observed every year on April 22, Earth Day promotes environmental literacy and awareness. U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson founded Earth Day as an environmental teach-in held in 1970. Many consider this event the genesis of the "Going Green" movement. Coordinated by the Earth Day Network, there are now annual events held in 193 countries around the world to promote the idea that we, as humans, should protect the environment.

At Broadway Stages we're doing our part to raise awareness about environmental sustainability and we're walking the talk with the use of renewable technologies. From our green roofs, currently totaling 27,000 square feet, that help to advance ecosystem services that are critical to our habitat and community, to 50,000 square feet of solar panels that help improve air quality and decrease power grid demand. And later this year we'll be expanding our green roof garden program [Broadway Stages Green Corridor] by an additional 1.4 acres — or almost 61,000 square feet — thanks to a grant from the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation's Green Innovation Grant Program, and the support of Alive Structures who will design and implement the green roofs.

There is so much that each of us can do to protect our earth, and we encourage you to lend a hand. It's easy and fun. Consider implementing a recycle, reduce, reuse approach, or plant some green. Earth Day is a great time to plant a tree or even add a plant to your home or office. Not only does a plant add some color to a room, but it also helps to clean the air.

Check out the Earth Day Network to see what other initiatives are underway and how you can get involved.

Futures in Education Angels Reception Brings Students and Donors Together

Futures in Education 2018-19 Angel Program Recipients

The New York Hall of Science in Queens was buzzing with excitement last night! Futures in Education held their Angel Program reception that was attended by hundreds of students, their families, and Angel sponsors. It was an amazing opportunity to bring the students and their donors together to meet face to face.

Broadway Stages has been a longtime supporter of the Futures in Education Angel Program that allows less fortunate children in Brooklyn and Queens to receive a Catholic education. This year, Gina Argento was the Angel to four children, subsidizing the cost of their Catholic grammar school tuition.

"It's a privilege to play a role in the lives of these children, and helping them expand their knowledge and love of learning," Gina said. The Angel Program provides access to an excellent education for those who need a helping hand."

Any family with a child or children grades K-8 registered in a Catholic elementary school or academy in Brooklyn or Queens that can demonstrate financial need of tuition assistance may apply. To learn more about Futures in Education and the Angel Program, click here.

Staten Island Children's Museum Carnival & Science Spectacular!

Broadway Stages is thrilled to be among the sponsors of this year's Carnival and Science Spectacular, a fundraiser that benefits the Staten Island Children's Museum. You won't want to miss the fun! This old-fashioned festival includes many fan favorites including carnival games and rides, bounce house, obstacle course, music, rock wall, science demonstrations, robots, solar cars, lasers, raffles, food, entry to the museum, and so much more!

Staten Island Children's Museum
Carnival & Science Spectacular

1000 Richmond Terrace
Staten Island, NY 10301
Saturday June 1 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at
www.sichildrensmuseum.org/carnival-and-science-spectacular or at the museum.

Discount tickets are available for $13 until May 30
Special early bird pricing is available to members for $10 until April 26  
Tickets at the gate are $16

The Staten Island Children's Museum was founded in 1974. Since that time they have worked to nurture the creativity and curiosity natural to all children. Their programming emphasizes direct and authentic hands-on experiences conducted in a welcoming and pleasing environment. The museum encourages participation by visitors of all abilities and endeavors to reach beyond its walls to serve as an educational resource for the members of our diverse community, especially families and schools. To learn more about the Staten Island Children's Museum, click here.

Canarsie Park Easter Egg Hunt Hosted by Senator Persaud - Sponsored by BWS

Spring is in full swing with Easter right around the corner, so what better way to celebrate than with an Easter egg hunt for the kids? Broadway Stages invites you to attend the Senate District 19 Easter Egg Hunt hosted by Senator Roxanne J. Persaud.

Carnarsie Park
Senator Roxanne J. Persaud Free Easter Egg Hunt

Seaview Ave &, E 102nd St (East 88th Street and Seaview Avenue)
Brooklyn, NY 11236
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

"SD-19 Easter Egg Hunt is one more way to serve the community. I am happy with the response and support from the community because families in the 19th senatorial district deserve opportunities for physical and social activities outdoors. I am proud to be able to host this egg hunt in the district for a second year," Senator Persaud said.

This fun family event will feature giveaways and refreshments, games for the kids, as well as a visit from the Easter Bunny! Admission is FREE, and we can't wait to see you there. Just don't forget to bring a basket!

RSVP via goo.gl/forms/CChl5logefycqHlA3

Join Us in Donating Prom Dresses and Suits

Broadway Stages Boutique (Donations requested by May 20)
Drop Off Box Located at:
Broadway Stages
203 Meserole Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11222

For pick up request please email: monica@broadway-stages.com

It's prom season, and the Broadway Stages Boutique is open and awaiting your donations! We are looking for gently used, prom appropriate evening dresses, gowns, and men's suits. We are hoping to bring big "Brooklyn" smiles to those less fortunate who want to attend this milestone event. For many who want to go to their prom, the price of the ticket alone is too much. When you add the cost of a dress or suit and all the extras it can become completely unaffordable.

So, while you're doing your spring cleaning, please consider donating any prom appropriate attire (for women or men), that has been hiding in the back of your closet. You will be helping someone deserving to attend their prom in style.

Please contact monica@broadway-stages.com to schedule a pick up or drop off your donations at Broadway Stages headquarters located at 203 Meserole Ave., Brooklyn, NY no later than May 20, 2019.

Donations from Broadway Stages will be distributed across Brooklyn. The date and location for distribution will be provided as soon as details are finalized.

"Broadway Stages has a long history of giving back; it's just part of who we are and what we do. Our commitment to be a good neighbor means lending a helping hand whenever we can, and that's what we're doing with our prom dress and suit drive. The excitement of high school prom is something that takes us all back to a milestone moment. For those excited about attending, the challenge of affording a ticket and the required attire may prevent them from participating in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. We hope that our prom dress and suit drive will allow underprivileged young women and men to attend their prom in style. Building a sense of community and providing to those less fortunate is a passion of Broadway Stages, and we invite the community to join us by donating gently used prom style dresses and suits. Together we can help bring a smile to deserving students." - Monica Holowacz, Director of Community Relations, Broadway Stages, Ltd.

Sold-Out Success! North Brooklyn Angels' Inaugural Fundraising Luncheon

Photos courtesy of Philip Mauro Photography

The North Brooklyn Angels' Neighbors Helping Neighbors luncheon hosted by Broadway Stages was a big success! The sold-out fundraiser held at the Warsaw Polish National Home on March 27 raised over $130,000, which equals more than 32,000 meals that will be served to our neighbors in need over the next year.

It was a virtual who's who in attendance including those honored as Neighbors of the Year, including Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams; Ana Oliveira, Brooklyn Chamber Chair and Marketing Executive for Investors Bank; and restaurateur and behind-the-scenes "Angel" chef Josh Cohen. Also, in attendance was Chair of the Luncheon and the North Brooklyn Chamber Elaine Brodsky as well as President of the North Brooklyn Chamber Paul Samulski. Of course, our very own Tony and Gina Argento were on hand to celebrate the North Brooklyn Angels and the Neighbors of the Year, along with others who came out to support the cause.

A special shoutout to the Brownsville Culinary Community Center (BCCC) who made and served the delicious food for the luncheon. BCCC is an amazing community service organization located in East New York, Brooklyn. Similar to the North Brooklyn Angels, their mission is to address issues around food scarcity by offering healthy, accessible cuisine to neighborhood residents. They also offer a culinary training program designed to educate and inspire participants to excel in the food-service industry. To learn more visit BCCC.

Sincere thanks to all who attended the event – to those who made the event happen, for volunteering, for donating, and for spreading the word about food insecurity in Brooklyn. We also acknowledge the Episcopal Ministries of Long Island who provided the start-up funding for the Angelmobile project, and to Elaine and Norm Brodsky, founding partners and sustained donors of the Angelmobile, for their continued commitment to community.

Did you miss the luncheon? No worries, it's never too late! Please consider donating your time or financial resources. To learn more about the North Brooklyn Angels and how you can help fight hunger, food insecurity, and poverty in North Brooklyn, click here.

Celebrating Women's History Month and Recipients of the "Made in NY" Women's Film, TV, and Theatre Fund Grant

On February 28, 2019, Deputy Mayor Alicia Glen and the Mayor's Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) Acting Commissioner Anne del Castillo kicked off Women's History Month with the announcement of the first round of grant recipients of the "Made in NY" Women's Film, TV, and Theatre Fund.

Funds totaling $1.5 million were awarded to 63 film, television, theatre, and digital media women-led projects. This is the first round of a $5 million, three-year program funded by MOME and administered by New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA).

Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages, congratulates the grant recipients for their creativity, drive, and perseverance in making a mark in this challenging industry and celebrates the importance of Women's History Month. "At Broadway Stages, we value diversity and promote the inclusion of experiences, talents, and culture across our operations, and we support efforts to advance opportunities for women and minorities in the television and film industry and beyond," Gina said. "I applaud the efforts of Deputy Mayor Glen and MOME Acting Commissioner Anne del Castillo for their leadership in bringing attention and support to the underrepresented women in this industry. I am proud of what New York City is doing to help advance women in television, film, and theater and hope to see continued progress. Throughout the year, and especially during Women's History Month, it's important to understand the contributions of women across the globe, the value of our experiences and perspectives, and the obligation we all have to advance equality and inclusion."

A full list of projects that were funded by this grant can be found here.  

Read more about the Women's Film, TV, and Theater Fund and Women's History Month.

Broadway Stages Hosts North Brooklyn Angels' Inaugural Fundraising Luncheon

North Brooklyn Angels Luncheon
216 Driggs Ave
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Wednesday, March 27, 2019
Contact: Aleksandra @ 347-752-2016 

Broadway Stages is hosting the North Brooklyn Angels' first annual Neighbors Helping Neighbors luncheon on March 27. The North Brooklyn Angels are hoping to raise enough funds to prepare and serve 50,000 meals over a period of a year to those in need right here in Brooklyn.

Did you know that Brooklyn has the highest rate of food insecurity in NYC at 20% of its population? And that housing cost is the primary cause of food sacrifice? When you also consider the negative impacts of housing instability and poverty on many of our neighbors in Brooklyn, you soon understand the need for the North Brooklyn Angels.

Not only will this inaugural luncheon raise funds to feed those in need, but it will also serve to recognize three Neighbors of the Year who have generously worked toward community betterment, namely Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams; Brooklyn Chamber Chair, SVP, and Marketing Executive for Investors Bank Ana Oliveira; and North Brooklyn restaurateur Josh Cohen, who is responsible for helping to prepare 1,000 meals a week for our neighbors in need.

Broadway Stages encourages you to join us in supporting the North Brooklyn Angels, either through financial or volunteer support, and personally invite you to attend the Neighbors Helping Neighbors luncheon.

For more information about the North Brooklyn Angels and how you can help, click here.

Celebrating Black History Month and Local Hero #42 Jackie Robinson

Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams Hosts Jackie Robinson Essay Contest
The first two months of the new year have special significance – in January we recognize the 100th birthday of a local hero, Jackie Roosevelt Robinson, and in February we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Black History Month.

On April 15, 1947 Jackie Robinson became the first black athlete to play Major League Baseball (MLB) in the modern era, playing first base for the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field in the Flatbush neighborhood of New York. From pioneering integration of professional athletics in America to playing a critical role in the Civil Rights movement, Robinson helped change the landscape of race relations in the United States. But his influence goes beyond the baseball field. Robinson was also the first black television analyst in MLB and the first black vice president of a major American corporation, Chock full o'Nuts. In addition, in the 1960s, he helped establish the Freedom National Bank, an African American-owned financial institution based in Harlem, New York. Robinson passed away in 1972 at the age of 53, but his memory continues to be celebrated.

On January 31, 2019, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, together with Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo, kicked off Black History Month with a tribute to Jackie Robinson. At a celebration at Brooklyn Borough Hall, a proclamation and posthumous "Key to Brooklyn" were presented to the family of Jackie Robinson (accepted by his granddaughter Sonya Pankey) on what would have been the 100th birthday of the hall of famer. In addition, the winners of an essay contest acknowledging the character and achievements of Jackie Robinson were recognized. The essay contest was held at three local schools named after the famous baseball player and civil rights leader. The schools involved in the essay contest were M.S. 352 - Brooklyn, P.S. 375 – Brooklyn, and P.S. 15 - Queens.   

Judges for the essay contest included community leaders, educators, a Brooklyn Supreme Court Justice, an attorney, and Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages. As a company with local roots, Broadway Stages is committed to giving back and welcomed the opportunity to join in the celebration and serve as a judge for the essay contest. Gina applauds the efforts of Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and Majority Leader Laurie Cumbo for kicking off Black History Month with this ceremonial event. "Celebrating culture, and accomplishments, helps build awareness, and reminds us all of the value that our diverse experiences and talents bring to our world," Gina said. Broadway Stages congratulates all the students who participated in the essay contest and recognizes the winners on a job well done.

M.S. 352, Ebbets Field Middle P.S. 375, Jackie Robinson Primary          P.S. 15, Jackie Robinson Primary
1st  – Merlik Alleyne 1st – Kamryn Bennett                      1st – Anaelle Pierre Charles
2nd – Ragiyata Bah   2nd – Victoria Rolon             2nd – Madison St. Claire
3rd – Brianna Pettiford     3rd – N/A             3rd – Jasmine Jackson

For information about the Jackie Robinson Foundation, click here. To view the award ceremony at Brooklyn Borough Hall, click here. 

Broadway Stages Receives $1.5 Million Grant for 1.4-Acre Green Roof

New York State AssemblyMan joe lentol

city councilman rafael espinal

Assemblyman Joe Lentol announced that Broadway Stages was awarded a $1.5 million grant by the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation's Green Innovation Grant Program for the installation of  a 1.4-acre green roof. The project will be designed, installed, and managed by Alive Structures atop three of Broadway Stages' film production studios in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The almost 61,000 square feet of green rooftops will be called Broadway Stages Green Corridor and will help to advance ecosystem services that are critical to habitat and community.

kingsland wildflower rooftop

The announcement was made at the Kingsland Wildflowers green roof garden, a successful project that Alive Structures, along with New York City Audubon and the Newtown Creek Alliance, helped to create and transform upon one of Broadway Stages' production studios located on Kingsland Avenue in Greenpoint. Attendees at the event included Marni Majorelle, Principal, Alive Structures; Kathryn Heintz, Executive Director, New York City Audubon; New York City Councilman Rafael Espinal; Sol Kjøk resident artist and founder of NOoSPHERE Arts; Willis Elkins, Executive Director, Newtown Creek Alliance; and Paul Samulski, President, North Brooklyn Chamber.

kingsland wildflowerS rooftop SPHERE

kingsland wildfloweRS rooftop

kingsland wildflowerS rooftop

"Broadway Stages is thrilled to have been chosen in cooperation with Alive Structures for this prestigious grant," said Gina Argento, President and CEO of Broadway Stages. "Our commitment to community and environmental sustainability is a cornerstone of our business philosophy. Through green infrastructure and renewable energy projects such as Kingsland Wildflowers at Broadway Stages, Eagle Street Rooftop Farm, and our solar rooftop that spans 50,000 square feet, we are able to utilize our sound stages in a way that brings mutual value to our operations, our environment, and our community. We are excited to embark on this green roof garden project and continuing to do our part to contribute to the health of our environment."

For additional information about the announcement, view media reports at Greenpointers.com by Aaron Simon, Brooklyn Daily Eagle, Patch.com by Anna Quinn, Brooklyn Paper by Julianne McShane, and Brooklyn News 12.

Broadway Stages Supports Futures in Education Angel Scholarship Program

As advocates for education, Broadway Stages seeks to support organizations and programs that promote student achievement, offer the opportunity for students to expand their knowledge, and provide equal access to education. One of many programs that we support is the Futures in Education Angel Scholarship Program. This year we had the opportunity to sponsor four children who will have their tuition subsidized by Broadway Stages. Without the help from donors, many of our less fortunate children in Brooklyn and Queens would be denied the value of a Catholic education. Any family with a child or children grades K-8 registered in a Catholic Elementary school or academy in Brooklyn or Queens that can demonstrate financial need of tuition assistance may apply.

Being an Angel gives you a chance to become involved in a student's life in a positive, impactful way, and you can directly witness the positive influence of your donation. Broadway Stages encourages you to consider a donation to Futures in Education. Together we can change lives through the gift of education. Watch the Angel Program video here. We guarantee it will touch your heart.

Broadway Stages, Ltd., New York's premier television and film production company, manages over three million square feet of integrated space with more than 50 sound stages, unique locations, production services, and over seven acres of parking throughout three boroughs in New York City. As a responsible company with local roots, we actively support economic and social growth, education, community betterment, and environmental sustainability throughout Brooklyn and greater NYC. Through financial, in-kind, and volunteer resources we strive to make a difference in the communities where we work and live.

Children's Christmas Celebration Host to Over 500!

On Saturday, December 8 Broadway Stages and the 94th Precinct Community Council hosted their 8th children's Christmas celebration. We welcomed over 500 guests who enjoyed a day full of fun activities including face painting, balloon animals, a photo booth, and arts and crafts. Delicious kid-inspired sweet and savory snacks were available for our guests to enjoy, and each child was given a goody bag of arts and crafts to continue the fun when they got home. But the best part of the day was a meeting with Santa, complete with a gift from his toy shop at Broadway Stages.  

Together with the 94th Precinct, Broadway Stages is grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season with our community.  

Merry Christmas!
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Broadway Stages, Ltd., New York's premier television and film production company, manages over three million square feet of integrated space with more than 50 sound stages, unique locations, production services, and over seven acres of parking throughout three boroughs in New York City. As a responsible company with local roots, we actively support economic and social growth, education, community betterment, and environmental sustainability throughout Brooklyn and greater NYC. Through financial, in-kind, and volunteer resources we strive to make a difference in the communities where we work and live.