Good News: Remembering Pearl Harbor, Mandela

As a local news organization, Patch covers stories of all kinds, from heartbreaking tragedies to nitty-gritty breakdowns of government and school district issues. But some stories are simply inspiring, often showing that at the heart of our communities is a desire to do good. Here are some of the touching headlines from the past seven days.

Local Pols Remember Nelson Mandela

Former South African president Nelson Mandela, a man who captured the world's attention for his stand against apartheid, died Thursday at 95.

Since the news broke an outpouring of sentiments have come from across the nation and will continue as Mandela is remembered. President Barack Obama, past presidents and politicians everywhere have shared their thoughts and memories of Mandela. Yvette Clark shared her thoughts, as well as Hakeem Jeffries in Bed-Stuy.

Help Push Typhoon Relief Over The Top

The typhoon that swept through the Philippines earlier this year spread damage far and wide, with an impact felt even here in Brooklyn.

Now, through GoFundMe, a local resident is putting together donations to help mitigate the damage felt by one family that has truly struggled in the aftermath of that powerful storm.

Long-Awaited Lakeside Center to Open Before Christmas

It's been a long time in the making, but the highly anticipated Lakeside Center -- officially named Samuel J. and Ethel LeFrak Center at Lakeside -- will open before Christmas.

The 26-acre, $74 million restoration and redesign of an underutilized section of Prospect Park will feature a year-round facility that includes two rinks for ice skating, roller skating and water play for each season. It will also offer a café, event space and restrooms year-round. 

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Event in Brooklyn

Councilwoman Darlene Mealy hosted an "intergenerational Pearl Harbor memorial" event on Dec. 5. with several local groups at P.S. 12. The 72nd anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor falls on Dec. 7 this year. Mealy is hopeful this year's event, which is happening for the fourth time, will be a learning experience for Brooklyn youth, and a good way to honor Brooklyn's veterans.