
BROOKLYN — YMCA BRANCHES AROUND the borough will be hosting New Year, family-friendly open houses on Jan. 11. Participating branches include those in Bed-Stuy, Coney Island, Greenpoint, North Brooklyn, Park Slope and Prospect Park, as well as the Dodge YMCA in Boerum Hill. Giveaways and refreshments, along with information regarding the YMCA’s programs, like swim classes and summer camp, will be available; kids and families can also have fun at free activities and workshops.
Participants can enjoy the Y for free. The open houses begin at 10:00 a.m.; classes and times vary by location and can be found online on the YMCA NYC website.
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SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.