Community Corner

Editor's Picks: Favorite Stories of 2012

Amid chaotic weather and freak building collapses, heartwarming stories of inspiration also came out of Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill, Columbia Waterfront District, Gowanus and Boerum Hill.


As 2012 comes to a close, it's given this editor pause to reflect on the varied articles that I've written over the last year in Carroll Gardens, Cobble Hill and Boerum Hill. In truth, there were many, many stories I've enjoyed reporting on. But here are five of my favorites that I found particularly heartwarming and inspiring:

Lee Lee's Valise Steps Into Spotlight With TLC Makeover Series

Carroll Gardens plus-sized clothing shop owners Lisa and Jim Dolan debuted as the stars of "Big Brooklyn Style" in May—inspiring women all over the country to love themselves and to dress fierce.

Find out what's happening in Carroll Gardens-Cobble Hillwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Good Samaritan Creates Neighborhood Park Out of Vacant Lot

After watching a city-owned lot at the corner of Woodhull and Columbia streets remain vacant for more than 35 years, overrun with wildlife, vermin and drug paraphernalia, neighbor Lou Formisano decided to take matters into his own hands.

Find out what's happening in Carroll Gardens-Cobble Hillwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Against All Odds: Michelle Sauer & Jose Portes

How one Brooklyn couple survived a near-fatal motorcycle crash, built a skateboarding business, and coasted off into the sunset. 

Score! Royal Palms Shuffleboard Approved for Liquor License at CB6 Committee Mtg.

After months of heated exchanges with neighbors, community leaders and local businesses, the owners of New York City's first shuffleboard club celebrated a victory when their application for an on-premise liquor license was approved. 

"We're putting in a lot of stipulations that will cut into our business," co-owner Ashley Albert told Patch after the final vote. "But in the end, if these concessions make [neighbors] feel like they can get behind it and enjoy it, then it is worth it. It was important to us that the community know we heard their concerns."

Carroll Gardens Neighbors Rally Around Fallen Tree

It was late at night when Gina Vutera's dog woke her up in the middle of Hurricane Sandy. Wondering what her terrier was barking at, she looked out the window just in time to watch a large maple tree in front of her Carroll Gardens brownstone hit the sidewalk with an ominous boom. And it brought a power line with it.


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