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Remembering Joe Ferris

Earlier this week, former Assemblymember Joe Ferris, who was my predecessor Jim Brennan’s predecessor, passed away.  He was 85.

Ferris was elected to the Assembly in 1974 and served for 10 years until Jim was elected in 1984. Joe Ferris had a profound impact on the politics of Brooklyn and New York City and was a fierce advocate for independence and reform.

He was one of the founders of Park Slope’s local political club, Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats (CBID) and did much for Brooklyn and the constituents he served.

Prior to being elected to the Assembly, Joe served in the Army, taught in New York City schools for 15 years and at Rikers Island.   On a personal level, Joe was a true friend to my family and a mentor to my father, Jack Carroll.

He was an individual of unshakeable integrity and since I was elected in 2016, I have always done my best to live up to his example of independence and honesty. I offer my deepest condolences to his two sons,  Joseph, Jr. and Thoma,s who should know that through their father’s lifetime of public service he had a profound impact on so many and will be sorely missed.

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  • Blake Sandberg is an artist, musician, filmmaker, skateboarder, company owner/. Sandberg is known for his painting and drawing; as well as his post-punk band Aliens. Sandberg also founded and runs a skateboard and printed goods company called Severed Leg Productions. While a long time east-coaster, his roots are in Austin, Texas.

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