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Today’s Daily News reports that Sheepshead Bay residents are in vehement opposition to a  proposed mosque in their area.  Situated on a residential street, many residents claim that the building presents a security issue in addition to bringing undue noise and traffic to the quiet street.  The building, which is to be affiliated with the Muslim American Society, would include a prayer hall and a community center with youth programs.  For the complete article, click here.

Strolling through the neighborhood, I noticed that the house on Coleman Street that has gotten much publicity over the past few months due to its public displays opposing St. Thomas Aquinas ringing the church bells every hour, has acknowledged MarineParker’s role in publicizing this battle which has become a hotbed of controversy, chock full of stinging discussion.

Additionally, in an act of solidarity, a neighbor has hung a sign in support of decreasing the frequency of the church bells.

The Good Shepherd Christmas Tree, as pictured above, is beautifully lit for the Christmas season.  In addition, as part of their Sunday Evening Recital Series, the Good Shepherd Chancel Choir Soloists and Orchestra will perform George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah” (Part 1) on Sunday, December 13th at 6:00 PM.  The recital is free of charge.

What a great event to get one into the holiday spirit!  Click here for more information on the Music Ministry.

Because here at MarineParker we love to butcher things to death, CBS 2 news has contributed to the on the ongoing battle of the bells between local resident John Russo and St. Thomas Aquinas Church.

If you reside within Southern Marine Park in the vicinity of Flatbush Avenue, chances are that you are cognizant of the bells being rung every hour, on the hour, by St. Thomas Aquinas Church.  Although I live a few blocks away, I oftentimes hear the bells very clearly so one can imagine what they must sound like for residents adjacent to the church.  One displeased resident on Coleman Street between Flatlands Avenue and Avenue P has chosen to voice his/her concern through artistic means for at least the past year, possibly two years.  Reminiscent of Edvard Munch’s “The Scream,” the painting displayed in front of the house (in addition to the signage) clearly exhibits the owner’s sentiments toward the bells. 

Can neighbors offer some further information concerning this?  Has St. Thomas reached out to this owner?   Since this signage is still up, it is probably safe to say that this problem has not been rectified and may not be for quite some while.