On Monday, July 20, Capt. Doreen McCarthy assumed command of the U.S. Coast Guard New York Sector based at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. She relieved Capt. Jonathan Andrechik.
Photo courtesy of FDNY
The New York Sector is the largest operational field command on the east coast. Her regional command covers the area waterways from Sandy Hook, N.J., up the Hudson River to Albany. Additionally, she becomes the new captain of the Port of New York and New Jersey (COTP), which includes regulating vessel traffic, enforcing maritime safety and security and managing anchorage locations.
Among the guests at the change of command were Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, Fire Commissioner Lillian Bonsignsore and Chief of the Department John Esposito.
An interesting sidebar from Bay Ridge’s St. Patrick’s Church: Both Capt. Andrechik and his family, and Capt. McCarthy are parishioners at the church. However, Capt. Andrechik and family are preparing to move to Washington, D.C.
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On Thursday, July 16, the new NYPD Police Academy in College Point, Queens, was formally dedicated as the Detective Steven D. McDonald Police Academy. It was NYC Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch who proposed naming the academy in memory of McDonald.




Eagle Urban Media/file photo by Ted General
The Detectives’ Endowment Association (DEA) present at the dedication stated, “Detective Steven McDonald embodied courage, sacrifice, resilience and faith. His life and legacy continue to inspire generations of detectives and Finest of every rank who proudly serve New York City. DEA board officers were honored to celebrate this historic tribute. Steve’s name will forever remind those who enter the academy doors what it truly means to wear the Gold Shield.”
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Coming up on Saturday, Aug. 22 at 12 p.m. is the annual Maryland 400 Remembrance Ceremony at the Old Stone House in Park Slope. In addition to readings of the roster of the Marylanders, there will be a large group of American Revolution reenactors, musket salutes and several wreath-layings.

Eagle Urban Media/file photo by Ted General
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The National Grid gas company has been digging up streets and sidewalks in upper Bay Ridge to replace old gas lines. However, after they complete the installations they temporarily asphalt the top of the sidewalks.
Recently the utility had a private contracting company come in and resurface the sidewalks with an off white cream-like cement color. This was in sharp contrast to the more traditional previous gray color variations. Why does this make a difference? Because the former gray-toned pathways don’t highlight a spill, spot or soiled area as brazenly as this off-white replacement.
