Trader Joensing: With A Parade, Brooklyn Welcomes TJ's Store

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A small group of press, governmental officials and gawkers gathered at the steps of 209 Joralemon Street this morning at 10:30am to celebrate the news that Trader Joe's is coming to Brooklyn. A Caribbean steel drum band played. Pictured here, the scene outside Marty's office in downtown Brooklyn before the parade began. Can't you just feel the excitement?

Councilmember Bill de Blasio apparently didn't get the Hawaiian shirt memo. Here he is donning one hurriedly.

Marty and co. lead the "parade."

Crew member Jim Poppe, aka Trader Joe's regional vice pres., represents in spite of his injury.

Marty talks to a fan along the way.

The Hawaiian shirt mafia.

The oldest member of the press. Despite his age, this guy was way ahead of the pack. Coming soon, photos and a report from the press conference held inside the Trader Joe's site at 130 Court Street a mere hour ago.
· Racked Liveblog: Trader Joe's Comes to Brooklyn! [Racked]
· Breaking: Press Conference At Brooklyn Trader Joe's Site Tomorrow [Racked]