Senator Montgomery honors the life of Dr. Sam Pinn Jr., Founder and Chairman of the Fort Greene Council and Co-Founder and Director of Jazz966

Senator Velmanette Montgomery

February 24, 2018

On Saturday, February 24th, Senator Montgomery joined Cynthia Doris Pinn, the Pinn family and the community for a Memorial Tribute Celebrating the Life of Dr. Sam Pinn Jr., Founder and Chairman of the Fort Greene Council and Co-Founder and Director of Jazz966.  

In May of 1973, Dr. Sam Pinn Jr. helped found and then served as Chairman of the Fort Greene Council Inc. Under his luminous leadership, the Council expanded its sponsorship of senior centers, offering a range of comprehensive services, from their first center located in Fort Greene-Clinton Hills to its present sponsorship of 13 centers located throughout Brooklyn. The much needed expansion also included a meals-on-wheels program, two child care centers, COMPASS, and UPK for ALLs.

He was a visionary who created and organized Jazz 966 in November 1990, opening its doors to the Brooklyn community at affordable admission fees,  which was an alternative to the expensive Jazz clubs in New York City. Jazz 966 featured world renowned artist such as Wynton Marsalis, Trumpeter; Houston Person, Saxophonist; Etta Jones, Jazz Singer; and their own Danny Mixon, Pianist, to name a few.

Sam Pinn was an icon who built institutions in our community. As the Senator travels around her district, she is continually reminded of Sam’s legacy. From the senior citizens centers located throughout Brooklyn, to the countless organizations on which he served and countless constituents he helped, Sam left a tremendous footprint.

Sam was an inspirational role model and an iconic leader who selflessly devoted his life to empowering our community.  He was a tireless warrior who taught us all by example. We are all so blessed to have known him. His voice will greatly be missed.    

To read the full resolution honoring the life Dr. Sam Pinn, Jr.,  visit https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/resolutions/2017/j3667

For more remembrances of Sam Pinn, visit:

http://www.ourtimepress.com/a-life-well-lived-politicians-and-community-members-gather-to-honor-community-culture-keeper-dr-sam-pinn/

http://www.ourtimepress.com/remembering-sam-pinn/

http://www.ourtimepress.com/sam-pinn-a-gallant-freedom-fighter-and-brooklyn-legend-passes-at-82/

https://issuu.com/makf/docs/ourtimepress_ra_1_web