Local heroes feast on pizza, Spumoni Gardens style

When Congressmember Michael Grimm and broadcast journalist Geraldo Rivera decided to meet for lunch at Rivera’s favorite Brooklyn eatery, they made the further decision to make it a real meal to remember – by inviting local firefighters and police officers to enjoy L & B Spumoni Gardens’ legendary pizza with them.

So, on the afternoon of October 15, the party was held at the landmark restaurant on 86th Street near Avenue V, with students from David A. Boody Intermediate School providing the musical entertainment as New York’s Finest and Bravest chowed down on Spumoni Gardens squares, or wedges of a round pie for the traditionalists in the crowd. Also included in the party was a contingent of U.S. veterans.

“We figured we would get the neighborhood involved,” noted Grimm, “and show the cops and the firefighters how much we appreciate them.” And, he added, with the intermediate school students on hand, “It was an opportunity for the FDNY and the NYPD to see how the kids are doing. It was a win-win for everyone,” he stressed.

“You’ve got veterans, firefighters, cops and pizza. You can’t go wrong,” added Rivera.

As some of the firefighters relaxed at the outdoor tables, they expressed appreciation for the event and for the support. “It’s nice that they took an interest in the local firehouses and the cops in the area,” remarked Firefighter William Cona of Ladder 153. “I’ve met Congressman Grimm on several occasions and he’s a real gentleman, and it was nice to meet Geraldo Rivera.”

Firefighter Brian McManus concurred. “We know he’s on our side, which we appreciate,” he said.