Brooklyn Bar Association members surprise Avery Okin with 30th anniversary party
Past presidents of the Brooklyn Bar Association (BBA) held a 30th anniversary and 60th birthday party for Executive Director Avery Eli Okin at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge on Tuesday night.
The event was initially planned as a party for the BBA members who went to Cuba in March, and it still was to an extent as photos from the trip were everywhere and Cuban-themed food was served, but current President Arthur Aidala and past President Andrea Bonina decided to honor their mentor instead. Knowing that he would turn down such an idea, they had to do it in secret.
“Judge [Frank] Seddio, I’m angry at you because you were in my office for an hour and didn’t say anything,” Okin said, probably only half-joking.
Okin, who is known for avoiding the center of attention, got loud cheers and congratulations from the members, past presidents, judges and family members in attendance. Past President Joe Farrell, who was responsible for hiring Okin 30 years ago, even attended and said a few words.