NYC Gazette

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso has pledged $20,000 to support the Magnolia Tree Earth Center in Bedford-Stuyvesant. The center, founded by Hattie Carthan in 1972, is known for its environmental education and advocacy efforts. It houses New York City's last living landmark, a 140-year-old Magnolia grandiflora.

Reynoso's donation honors Carthan's original effort to save the tree from redevelopment in the late 1960s. "Hattie Carthan recognized that taking care of our environment was a collective act of love for one another and the neighborhoods we call home," said Reynoso. He emphasized community power and nature as vital educational tools.

The tree and surrounding brownstones were designated landmarks in 1970 after Carthan opposed plans to replace them with a parking lot and apartments. She initially needed $20,000 to protect the tree from harsh weather conditions but managed to raise $7,000 with community help. This amount was matched by the Horticultural Society of New York.

Wayne Devonish, Chairman of the Magnolia Tree Earth Center, stated, "Magnolia Tree Earth Center has been serving the community for 50 years... Now we need the community to support us." The center requires $350,000 for urgent repairs to its facade.

Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo praised Reynoso's donation: "I applaud Borough President Reynoso’s donation and call to action for New Yorkers to help save this important institution."

Council Member Chi Ossé highlighted the center's significance: "The Magnolia Tree Earth Center is a historical anchor and neighborhood centerpiece... Its preservation and rehabilitation are a critical mission."