DYKER HEIGHTS — The Kings County Conservative Party’s annual reception recently took place at Siricos, honoring the Brooklyn-based caterer and banquet hall in addition to two significant Brooklynites.
Eileen Long was acknowledged by the Kings County Conservative Party (KCCP) as “a lifetime advocate and matriarch of conservative principles” and received the James Gay Memorial Award. Karen Staub was given the Alice Gaffney Memorial Award.
From left: Ross Brady, Councilmember Susan Zhuang, D-43, KCCP Chair Fran Vella-Marrone and Chung Dick. Photo courtesy of the Kings County Conservative PartyEmbodying conservative values
KCCP Chair Fran Vella-Marrone told the Brooklyn Eagle that Long embodies conservative values.
“She was active from the very beginning, supporting all the candidates and supporting the issues,” Vella-Marrone said. “Eileen was just somebody that we all could count on and somebody that I emulated. She’s still a supporter of the Conservative Party, and I think it was so apropos that we gave her this honor.”
Vella-Marrone pointed out that Staub, who is on the KCCP’s executive committee, is a very active member. “Karen was influential in getting candidate petition signatures, which is so important, but she also supports the party throughout the year.”
Kings County Republican Party Chair Liam McCabe. Photo courtesy of the Kings County Conservative Party
Siricos, a family-owned and operated business, is known as a site for weddings, sweet 16 parties, anniversaries, graduations, communions, corporate events and other milestone celebrations. The venue was recognized at the event as well.
“We gave Sirico’s a citation honoring them for their 100 years in business,” Vella-Marrone said. “It’s amazing to have a business that’s been around for 100 years and is still going strong. They are so supportive of the community, and we’re happy to support them.”
Looking forward
Vella-Marrone underscored that 2025 was “kind of a down year” for the KCCP, but she is optimistic about the future.