Green-Wood Cemetery, one of the borough’s most historic burial places, celebrated the arts and awarded Brooklynites, Earl and Gina Ingoglia Weiner the DeWitt Clinton Award for Excellence at its seventh annual fundraising gala.
The event was held on September 18 and featured cocktails, dinner and a live auction. The effort was a success, with the benefit raising $145,000 that will go towards Green-Wood’s new visitors center in the historic Weir Greenhouse, along with benefiting public programs including trolley and walking tours, educational programs, concerts and outdoor performances.
The Weiners were presented with the milestone award for their dedication to the arts, theater history, education and historic preservation.
President of Green-Wood Richard Moylan said, “Gina has dedicated her life to preserving Brooklyn’s storied past. Her literary prowess, mastery of painting and expertise on gardening and landscape architecture make her quite an asset to our city.” She is director of the Brooklyn Historical Society, co-founder and vice president of the Florilegum Society for the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and author of more than 80 books.
As for her husband, Moylan noted, “Earl’s commitment to theater and the beauty of Brooklyn, is matched only by his remarkable dedication to Green-Wood,” having now served three decades as a trustee of the cemetery. He also serves as chair of the Acting Company and Theatre Development Fund and vice chair of the Brooklyn Hospital Center.
Moylan contended, “They are a perfect tribute to DeWitt Clinton,” who served as New York governor, New York City mayor and state senator, assemblymember and U.S. senator during a long political career, which lasted from 1798 to his death in 1828.
Two hundred and forty New Yorkers were in attendance at the gala to support the 176-year-old Brooklyn landmark. Among the guests were Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, New York State Assembly member James Brennan and Marty Markowitz, the former Brooklyn borough president who is now a vice president with NYC & Company.
Former Borough President Marty Markowitz, Jamie Markowitz and Richard Moylan.