Today was the rally calling for Bruce Ratner to put up or shut up. Brooklyn is getting tired of Ratner making promises then breaking those promises even as he demands more taxpayer money. The rally was well attended, though we came slightly late and were way at the back, so didn't really see the whole crowd.

Chris Owens, President of Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats and Brooklyn Progressive Activist, led the rally. Three groups organized the rally: Develop Don’t Destroy Brooklyn, The Council of Brooklyn Neighborhoods, and Brooklyn Speaks. MANY local politicians attended, including some who had previously been pretty solidly behind Ratner. Ratner has worn out his welcome even among his supporters.

Here are some excerpts from the press release from the three organizing groups:

Tis the season to consume. Of course there are two ways to consume: shop at those awful soulless malls owned by people like Bruce Ratner who doesn't give a rat's ass about community, or shop at local businesses run by your neighbors and friends. I admit it. I have done my share of shopping at big chain stores. But when you get to know the owner and the store is part of your neighborhood, it just feels better shopping there.

Develop Don't Destroy Brooklyn, the group that has been at the forefront of defending Central Brooklyn from overdevelopment, is highlighting the community based businesses that support them as a way to say "thank you" for that support. Here is the list: (after the break)