“Is Brooklyn Tech in the house?” Applause. “Brooklyn College?” A roar from school buddies. After a number of shout-outs he gave special mention, “My mom!” (She was holding court in the club’s mezzanine.) “Mom, stand up!”
Those weren’t the only ones in the house at the packed Katra lounge on the Bowery where Councilman Jumaane Williams celebrated his 35th birthday on May 12. Family, friends, fans, former co-workers, a slew of union representatives, political colleagues and young Democrats who are interested in politics schmoozed over ear-deafening contemporary music with calypso or reggae beats.
Among the Council people who brought their well-wishes were Julissa Ferreras and Danny Dromm (Queens) and Gayle Brewer (Manhattan). Assemblymember Hakeem Jefferies stopped by.
Early supporters of Jumaane from Flatbush Development Corporation FDC were also at the multi-generational event, which additionally was a fundraiser.
The birthday party was intended to “have fun” as directed from Jumaane in his initial greeting to those gathered. “But, it was more than that,” said Chief of Staff Ede Fox. “The turnout showed how well-respected Jumaane is by the progressive community. The turnout is a representation of the support he has and his ability to galvanize people.” Non-the-less, people hung out with their old and new friends and had a great time.
The black and white birthday cake had a shooting sparkler as people sang Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday to Ya.” When Jumaane saw a picture of the cake he said, “Nice cake, I didn’t taste it!
