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Editorial; Toxic Social Media Culture Ready For Warning Label

BQE Admin on June 21, 2024

For those who recall the time of the surgeon general’s warning on cigarette packs, it was a statement basically ignored, but it was there, and had an impact that would have its day. The statement went unappreciated, but eventually proved effective. Fewer people smoke cigarettes today and its impact on better health, although tough to measure, is certainly real. It was 1965, and smoking was clearly fundamentally accepted as normal. That is until a 1964 report by the surgeon general cited articles and studies linking cigarette smoking to dangerous health effects. The warning label went on cigarettes soon after and decades of measures to curb smoking followed.

Now, the surgeon general is calling for this type label on social media. One knee jerk reaction is that it won’t help, but we see the surgeon general’s warning on social media as a great start. For one, it’s a way of taming the development the apps will have going forward. It’s a disgrace that tic tok, instagram and others contain algorithms that are intentionally addictive and coerce children to stay on the site for hours at a time. It’s quite jarring that young minds are being manipulated intentionally, but that’s the business of these social networks making money. So it will take decades to fully realize the positive impact of a warning label, but it will do more for mental health for generations of people than we can imagine.

Child Center of NY Launches Annual Backpack Drive to Support Underserved Students

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

Courtesy Child Center of NY

The Child Center of NY’s annual Backpack Drive aims to assist 12,000 children and young adults facing economic challenges, homelessness, or recent immigration, providing essential school supplies to empower underserved communities.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The Child Center of NY is gearing up for its annual Backpack Drive, aiming to aid 12,000 children and young adults across New York City and Long Island. The initiative, which provides essential school supplies to students facing economic challenges, homelessness, or recent immigration, kicks off with a focus on empowering underserved communities.

The backpacks, packed with crucial school essentials, aim to equip students aged 3 to 21 with the tools they need to excel academically. The campaign, a cornerstone of the organization’s efforts, seeks to alleviate financial burdens for families and ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to succeed in their educational journey.

“We provide a range of services for New Yorkers in all boroughs,” Abby Addis, Director of Marketing and Communications said. “We do everything from behavioral health, prevention and family support, youth development, and we have a residential treatment facility.”

Founded in 1953 as a children’s counseling center in Queens, The Child Center of NY has grown into a vital community resource. The Child Center of NY’s headquarters, located at 118-35 Queens Blvd in Forest Hills, serves as the central hub for coordinating their impactful initiatives and community outreach efforts. With over 60 locations and 100 programs across the city, the organization serves more than 58,000 New Yorkers annually, offering a range of services from early childhood education to youth development and behavioral health support.

“Our methodology is focused on young people from very underserved communities,” Addis said. “We partner with corporate sponsors and distribute backpacks. As you can imagine, we’re distributing 1000s and 1000s of backpacks, and it all comes through Forest Hills.”

The Child Center of NY takes a holistic approach to its mission, addressing the cognitive, social-emotional, and physical well-being of each individual. By engaging with families, schools, and communities, the organization aims to create a supportive environment where children can thrive.

The Backpack Drive, a collaborative effort involving corporate sponsors and volunteers, highlights the power of collective action in addressing educational inequities. From stuffing backpacks with supplies to coordinating distribution, the initiative showcases the dedication of individuals and organizations committed to making a difference.

“It’s very important to help families relieve economic hardship for them to  start confident and set them up for success,” Addis said. “It’s important to highlight that the Children’s Center of NY serves everyone, not just children. We have military services, we have benefits access, we have job nets, things for the whole community. So, it’s children and families.”

Brently Winstead, the Director of Development at The Child Center of NY, highlighted the organization’s longstanding commitment to their annual Backpack Drive, which has been ongoing since 2013 and has seen a remarkable increase in scale over the years.

With an aspirational goal of distributing 12,000 backpacks this year, the initiative targets children from underserved communities, including recent immigrants, those experiencing homelessness, and those living below the poverty line. Winstead emphasized the importance of alleviating the financial burdens on families, allowing parents to prioritize necessities without sacrificing their children’s education.

“We look at the kids who are recent immigrants to New York City in the last six months to a year, we also look at kids who live in shelters, temporary housing, homeless doubled up situations like that, and we also look at kids who live below the poverty line based off New York City standards,” Winstead said.

Organizing such a large-scale initiative requires extensive communication and collaboration with internal and external partners, spanning several months from planning to execution. Winstead outlined the meticulous process of coordinating with vendors, program directors, corporate sponsors, and government officials to ensure the success of the Backpack Drive.

He also emphasized the organization’s broader mission beyond the backpack campaign, aiming to combat generational poverty and stigma surrounding mental health while striving to increase graduation rates across the communities they serve. Winstead highlighted various avenues for community involvement, including donating supplies, volunteering time or expertise, and offering financial support, underscoring the organization’s multifaceted approach to making a meaningful impact on the lives of thousands of individuals each year.

“We just think that the backpack drive is one of many things that we as an organization are doing to end the generational divide that comes with poverty,” Winstead said. We serve around 58,000 individuals each year. We’ve been around for over 70 years. We have six divisions that encompass our work.”

As the campaign gains momentum, The Child Center of NY encourages community members to lend their support through donations and volunteering. Every contribution, whether big or small, plays a crucial role in empowering underserved youth and fostering academic success.

To learn more about how you can support the Backpack Drive and other initiatives by The Child Center of NY, visit their website and consider making a difference in the lives of children and families in need.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Brentley Winstead, Director of Development, at brentleywinstead@childcenterny.org.

“Our backpack drive embodies the philosophy of TCCNY: meaningful change begins by providing everyone with opportunities,” CEO Traci Donnelly said. “Whether it’s through a backpack or our innovative Cash+Community Works program, we strive to make a cycle-breaking difference. We are immensely grateful to our New York community for coming together to support this amazing Child Center program.”

Courtesy Child Center of NY

With an aspirational goal of equipping students aged 3 to 21 with academic tools, the campaign alleviates financial burdens for families, ensuring equal opportunities for success.

Arrest Made in Decade-Long Unsolved Murder Case in Ridgewood

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

 

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

A grand jury indictment has been issued for Anthony Scalici, charging him with second-degree murder in the 2009 stabbing death of his uncle, Rosario Prestigiacomo, inside the victim’s Ridgewood home. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz confirmed the indictment, highlighting the use of forensic genetic genealogy as the key method leading to Scalici’s identification and subsequent arrest.

“This development marks a significant breakthrough in the case, which had remained unsolved for over a decade,” Katz said.

Scalici, 41, a resident of Boynton Beach, Florida, was arraigned on the indictment and ordered to return to court on July 8. He faces a potential sentence of up to 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

“The breakthrough came when DNA retrieved from a discarded fork, collected in Florida in February, was matched to DNA found at the crime scene in Ridgewood,” said Katz. “Defendants should not be able to evade justice no matter how much time has passed.”

The breakthrough came after Linda Doyle of the NYPD’s Forensic Investigations Division utilized public genealogy databases to construct a family tree, eventually leading to the identification of Scalici as a suspect. Subsequent surveillance efforts and DNA testing on the fork confirmed his connection to the crime.

Scalici was apprehended in Boynton Beach, Florida, on May 14 by law enforcement agencies including the United States Marshals and the NYPD’s Regional Fugitive Task Force. He was later extradited to New York on May 29, 2024.

In a harrowing retelling of events, on February 2009, police arrived at a home on Greene Avenue after reports of a disturbance. Inside, they found Joseph Prestigiacomo brutally murdered. The investigation revealed a horrific scene: Prestigiacomo had been stabbed and beaten repeatedly.

Despite collecting evidence, including blood swabs, the initial investigation yielded no leads. Analysis of the swabs identified Prestigiacomo’s DNA, but also a mysterious second male profile, suggesting the attacker was injured during the assault. This unknown profile was entered into national databases, but with no matches.

The case went cold for over a decade. Determined to find justice for Prestigiacomo, authorities in 2022 took a renewed approach.  They enlisted the help of a private lab and the Department of Homeland Security to utilize forensic genetic genealogy, a technique that leverages public DNA databases to identify potential relatives of a suspect.

This approach proved fruitful. In June 2022, advanced DNA testing produced a detailed genetic profile of the suspect. Using this information, NYPD investigators painstakingly built a family tree, leading them to a potential suspect in December 2023: Joseph Scalici.

Further investigation revealed a chilling connection – Scalici was the son of the victim’s ex-wife’s brother.  Months of meticulous surveillance followed, culminating in detectives obtaining a discarded utensil used by Scalici in February 2024.  DNA testing confirmed a definitive match between the utensil and the unknown male profile found at the crime scene 15 years prior.

The investigation was a collaborative effort involving the NYPD’s Cold Case Squad, the Boynton Beach Police Department, and the United States Department of Homeland Security. Assistant District Attorney Karen L. Ross is prosecuting the case, with support from Deputy Bureau Chief Veronika Podoprigora.

It’s important to note that criminal complaints and indictments are accusations, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

“Key to the City” Event Empowers Immigrant Communities

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

Mohamed Farghaly

The New York Immigration Coalition hosted the “Key to the City” event at the Queens Public Library Langston Hughes on June 7.

 

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The New York Immigration Coalition hosted its “Key to the City” event at the Queens Public Library Langston Hughes, located at 100-01 Northern Blvd on June 7. The event, a cornerstone of the Coalition’s community outreach efforts, provided essential resources and services to immigrant neighborhoods, free of charge.

The Key to the City event is a vital initiative aimed at addressing the diverse needs of immigrant communities across New York City. Services offered at the event included immigration legal consultations, access to health resources, social services, workshops, and referrals. With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, the event catered to the linguistic and cultural diversity of the city, offering support in over 15 languages through translations and interpreters.

“Key to the City is really the place where we can provide that safe and informative space that families can ask questions they may not want to ask a city agency, all of these services are really geared towards the particular neighborhood that we hold them in,” Liza Schwartzwald,  Director of Economic Justice and Family Empowerment at the New York Immigration Coalition said.

The New York Immigration Coalition, a member-based organization, collaborates with community-based organizations throughout the state to provide direct services to immigrant communities. According to a spokesperson for the Coalition, the Key to the City events have been held for approximately 13 years, serving over 5000 individuals this year alone and distributing over 40,000 resources. The Coalition has organized 58 events thus far, with plans for five more in the current year.

“We want them to walk away saying, ‘I now know who in my community can help me get my kid into school,’ or maybe even, like, tell me what’s a good school here,” Schwartzwald said. “I think what makes the program so effective is it’s also sort of what people walk out of here feeling like they’ve connected better with their communities.”

Attendees at the event had the opportunity to engage with various service providers, ranging from assistance with enrolling children in school to immigration legal consultations. The goal, according to organizers, was to empower attendees with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate life in New York City successfully.

The event offered essential resources and services to immigrant neighborhoods free of charge.

Jodi Ziesemer, the Co-Director of the Immigrant Protection Unit at the New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG), highlighted the collaborative efforts with the New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC) to provide free legal immigration consultations at the Key to the City events for over a decade.

“We provide one on one individual consultations for anyone who makes an appointment or walks in, we’ve been responding to the needs in various different communities,” Ziesemer said. “This is a critical program, and I think especially because we’ve seen such evolving needs and changing needs of what the community needs.”

Ziesemer emphasized the significance of offering individual consultations to address diverse immigration needs, including asylum, status renewal, citizenship applications, and temporary protected status inquiries. They underscored the importance of these events in meeting evolving community needs and empowering immigrants with essential information and resources in multiple languages, enabling them to navigate the immigration system effectively.

Sushmita Diyali, the Assistant Manager at the South Asian Council for Social Services, outlined the organization’s multifaceted support programs during the Key to the City event. Based in Flushing and established in 2000, the organization serves as a vital resource for the New York City community. Diali highlighted the Hub Access Program, assisting individuals without insurance with Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care, alongside initiatives like food pantry services for 200 families weekly, senior centers, mental health programs, and women’s wellness and economic stability programs.

“We help people every week with groceries, and we also have senior centers, and we do mental health programs too,” Diyali said. “We provide people with language assistance, providing English and computer classes also, and we also do advocacy with different like-minded organizations.”

With a staff proficient in over 21 languages, the organization prioritizes addressing the diverse needs of the community, offering language assistance, English and computer classes, and advocacy efforts. At the Key to the City event, they provided legal support for immigrants and extended their services for direct contact or in-person visits to their office.

The impact of the Key to the City event extends beyond the services provided. It fosters a sense of community and belonging among immigrant residents, creating a space where individuals can connect with others facing similar challenges and access support in a familiar and welcoming environment.

Looking ahead, the New York Immigration Coalition remains committed to supporting immigrant communities across the city. They also encouraged individuals interested in supporting the Coalition’s efforts to consider volunteering or contributing to their initiatives.

“It’s always a pleasure to collaborate annually with the New York Immigration Coalition for their Key to the City event, a crucial opportunity for our immigrant communities and low-income residents in District 21 to access essential resources for free,” Council Member Francisco Moya said. “Every year, I work closely with my colleagues to ensure the council funds this vital initiative that ensures the well-being and prosperity of those I serve.”

With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, the event provided support in multiple languages and addressed diverse needs, from immigration legal consultations to health resources and workshops.

Queens Honors Councilman Paul Vallone with Heartfelt Bench Dedication

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

 

Mohamed Farghaly

Community members, political leaders, and loved ones gathered at Francis Lewis Park in Queens to unveil a memorial bench honoring the late Councilman Paul Vallone.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Community members, political officials, and friends gathered solemnly at Francis Lewis Park on June 14 for a heartfelt dedication ceremony honoring the late Councilman Paul Vallone. The event, organized by the Friends of Francis Lewis Park, paid tribute to Vallone’s enduring legacy of service and dedication to Queens’ District 19.

Formerly a distinguished member of the New York City Council and currently serving as the city’s Veterans Services deputy commissioner, Vallone passed away earlier this year on January 27 at the age of 56. His sudden death due to a fatal heart attack at home stunned the community, leaving behind his wife, Anna-Marie, and their three children, Catena, Lea, and Charlie.

Throughout his three terms in office from 2014 to 2021, Vallone championed initiatives aimed at enhancing education and community development within his district. His commitment to public service and passion for improving local parks were hallmarks of his tenure, making the bench dedication at Francis Lewis Park a poignant moment for all in attendance.

The ceremony, organized by the Friends of Francis Lewis Park, celebrated Vallone’s lifelong dedication to public service and his contributions to parks and education in Queens’ District 19.

The dedication ceremony at Francis Lewis Park on June 14 was a poignant tribute to the late Councilman Paul Vallone, celebrating his profound impact on Queens’ District 19 and beyond. Friends, family, and community members gathered to honor Vallone’s legacy of public service, highlighted by his advocacy for education and park improvements.

Among the attendees, Vallone’s friends and family played a central role, sharing memories that underscored his commitment to community and family. The ceremony commenced with a presentation of colors and a stirring rendition of the national anthem by Police Officer Murray, setting a solemn tone for the event.

Pastor Johnson delivered a heartfelt invocation, emphasizing Vallone’s faith and leadership, while Phil Sparacio, Chief of Operations in Queens Parks, reflected on Vallone’s enduring influence and dedication to enhancing public spaces.

“I’d like to welcome everyone to this day, it’s a very special thing that the Friends of Francis Lewis Park have done to commemorate all of what Paul did for the community,” Sparacio said. “He was a true friend of parks, not just Queen’s parks, but in the council, he pursued many other park initiatives that benefit the people in the city of New York. For me, it’s a little bittersweet. The last place I actually spoke with Paul was here in Francis Lewis Park during one of the summer concerts. But he certainly left a legacy.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards delivered a tribute at the bench dedication ceremony for Councilman Paul Vallone at Francis Lewis Park. Amidst a gathering of friends, family, and community members, Richards honored Vallone’s enduring legacy as a dedicated public servant and advocate for Queens.

“First of all, giving honor to God,” Richards began, addressing Vallone’s family and friends present. He praised Vallone’s selfless dedication and remarked on the impact Vallone had left on the community. Reflecting on the park where the ceremony was held, Richards emphasized that Vallone’s efforts were instrumental in its development, noting that Vallone always prioritized what was best for the neighborhood.

Richards fondly recalled Vallone’s character as someone who cared deeply about the community, making decisions not based on political calculations but on genuine concern for the welfare of others. He highlighted Vallone’s initiatives in Veteran Affairs, ensuring housing and services for veterans, and his commitment to improving the lives of residents across Queens.

Expressing gratitude for the commemoration of Vallone with the bench dedication, Richards assured that Vallone’s legacy would endure through future tributes like street renaming and other acknowledgments of his contributions.

“In the future, people will sit at this bench and reflect,” Richards said, concluding with a heartfelt tribute to Vallone’s enduring legacy. “May his legacy live on. He continues to be a blessing. And when time is up, just remember that smile. I love you, Paul.”

Friends and Family Gather to Celebrate Councilman Paul Vallone’s Life at Bench Dedication Event.

Councilwoman Sandra Ung spoke warmly at the bench dedication honoring Councilman Vallone, recalling personal moments that underscored Vallone’s profound impact on her life and the community.

“I have to say those words were so meaningful to me, because it was very contentious, and it was like a difficult moment at that time,” Ung said. “But him giving those words really did a lot to me, and we finished that deal. So, you know, his memory will always live on with me, who he is as a person.”

Ung reflected, recounting how Vallone’s supportive words helped her navigate a difficult legal issue. She shared how Vallone’s reassurance and empathy not only guided her through tough times but also left a lasting impression of his character as a caring and supportive friend.

New York State Senator John Liu delivered a heartfelt tribute at the bench dedication ceremony honoring Councilman Paul Vallone at Francis Lewis Park, acknowledging the profound impact Vallone had on his community and those who knew him.

“It’s hard to see you all out here, but it’s a beautiful day in a lot of different ways,” Liu began, recognizing the bittersweetness of the occasion.

“He still is beloved, and he is sorely missed during so many meetings with him, and now to not have him there, it’s kind of a hole in your heart, which I know is the same feeling that many of you have,” Liu said. “But today is a shiny day, it’s a good day when we take one of the very first steps to remember Paul’s memory, his legacy, with the dedication of this bench. And I know there’s going to be many, many more times for our brother Paul.”

Dorian Mecir, President of the Friends of Francis Lewis Park, spoke passionately at the bench dedication ceremony honoring Councilman Paul Vallone at Francis Lewis Park.

“Today is a bench dedication honoring the life of Council Member Paul Vallone,” Mecir said, highlighting Vallone’s instrumental role in founding and inspiring their grassroots group. “He was the best mentor, supporter that anybody could ever ask for. How fitting that today’s Flag Day, and here we are at the very beautiful veteran memorial that was renovated under his leadership.”

Mecir expressed gratitude for Vallone’s unwavering support and the tremendous turnout of friends and community members who gathered to commemorate Vallone’s contributions. The dedication ceremony, organized by the Friends of Francis Lewis Park, underscored Vallone’s enduring legacy and the profound influence he had on shaping the local park and community initiatives.

“Today, I ask everybody here to be a mentor, to take someone under your wing and show them the way,” Mecir said. “Share your knowledge, lend your wisdom, be a friend, encourage someone to go for it and wear your smile big and live like Paul gave along. We miss you, Paul. We love you. Paul, always.”

College Point Hosts Inaugural Restaurant Week to Celebrate Local Cuisine

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

Mohamed Farghaly

College Point’s local business week program aims to boost community engagement and support local establishments.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

In an effort to highlight its unique culinary scene, College Point unveiled its first-ever Restaurant Week during a press conference at Nonna Delia’s at 18-32 College Point Blvd on June 13. Organized by The College Point Board of Trade, Inc. in collaboration with the Queens Chamber of Commerce, the event aims to showcase the diverse and authentic flavors available in the vibrant Queens neighborhood. This program runs from June 16 to June 30 and visitors can look forward to receiving 20 percent off for customers coming in for in-person dine-in and pickup orders.

Settled along College Point Boulevard, residents and visitors are invited to savor a rich tapestry of international cuisines, from the robust flavors of South American fare to the comforting tastes of Italian trattorias and the exotic offerings of Asian cuisine. Participating restaurants, which include eateries specializing in Chilean, Colombian, Mexican, and other cuisines, are offering enticing discounts and special menus throughout the week.

“So, we’re very proud to partner with Tom Palma and the college point Board of Trade to put together college point Restaurant Week,” George Hadjiconstantinou, Vice President of Strategic Programs at the Queens Chamber of Commerce said. “We haven’t done this before in College Point, and frankly, this is not something that the Chamber of Commerce often does, either, but other neighborhoods in Queens have had very successful restaurant weeks, and we want to make sure that we are providing business support and assistance to businesses in College Point because we want to spur economic development, and we just want to encourage people to shop in their neighborhoods.”

The initiative, spurred by a grant from the New York City Small Business Services, underscores a concerted effort to revitalize College Point Boulevard as a thriving commercial corridor.

“A successful restaurant week is increased sales, not just for the restaurants, but for all surrounding businesses,” Hadjiconstantinou said. “We are operating on the theory that small that folks will come to college point, they’ll park their car or take the bus. Alternatively, they’ll eat at a restaurant and then they might need to buy something else. Maybe they’ll stop at the pharmacy across the street, or they’ll or maybe they’ll patronize any of the other great stores that are in the strip late. And also just, you know, this won’t be their last time they visit College point once they’ll have an excellent culinary experience. And hope that people from outside of college point will come in from Whitestone.”

Nonna Delia’s, a cherished establishment in College Point since 1989 known for its authentic Italian cuisine, is one the local restaurants participate in College Point’s local business week. The establishment embodies a rich family legacy steeped in culinary tradition. Originally known as Cascarino’s and renamed in honor of owner Robert Cascarino’s late mother, Nonna Delia, the restaurant remains a beacon of Italian comfort and hospitality. Delia herself was the heart and soul of the kitchen, renowned for her handmade meatballs, fresh sauces, and traditional pasta dishes.

Today, Nonna Delia’s continues to delight patrons with its signature brick oven pizzas, hearty pasta salads, and flavorful entrees like the Pan Fried Chicken dish. As College Point eagerly anticipates its first Restaurant Week, Robert Cascarino looks forward to sharing his family’s passion for authentic Italian cuisine and welcoming new diners to experience the warm atmosphere and exceptional service that define Nonna Delia’s.

Nonna Delia’s, a fixture in College Point since 1989, looks forward to showcasing its traditional Italian dishes and welcoming new patrons during this exciting community event.

 

In addition to showcasing the area’s diverse dining options, organizers have strived for inclusivity. As residents and food enthusiasts flock to College Point for this inaugural event, organizers are optimistic about its impact.

For more information and a list of participating restaurants offering exclusive discounts, visit the Queens Chamber of Commerce website at queenschamber.org.

Local Heroes recognized by Queens Community House

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Queens Community House (QCH) celebrated its annual “Celebrating Heroes” event on June 12th, honoring two local figures and paying homage to its roots in the Forest Hills community. This year marked a decade since the event’s inception, drawing in residents, businesses, and volunteers who have been pivotal to QCH’s mission.

Founded in 1975 as Forest Hills Community House, QCH has grown to encompass 57 programs across 37 sites, serving over 25,000 Queens residents annually. The organization’s mission focuses on alleviating poverty and supporting families across three generations.

“We got our start right here in Forest Hills and do everything from early childhood to after school programming college and career oriented programming for young adults, adult education for immigrants,” Executive Director, Ben Thomases said. “And Senior Services, we have older adult centers and home delivered meals for homebound seniors. So, lot of different services.”

Mohamed Farghaly

Queens Community House celebrated its annual “Celebrating Heroes” event on June 12th, commemorating a decade of honoring local figures and reaffirming its roots in Forest Hills.

 

The event showcased artwork from five senior centers, each contributing pieces created by their older adult populations, reflecting the vibrant creativity and talent within the community.

“Queens Community House got its start in the Forest Hills community,”  Ade Omotade, Director of Development said. “Although we’ve expanded now to work in kind of all parts of Queens, we consider Forest Hills kind of our home base. And so, this event is one where we pay homage to Forest Hills. Today we honor two Forest Hills trailblazers. We do the event in Forest Hills. And many of the people who come out are Forest Hills businesses, vendors or residents who live in the community. So, it’s very local, we keep it a very local event.”

The event highlighted two trailblazers deeply connected to the Forest Hills community. Paul Khahera, a dedicated volunteer for 25 years, was recognized for his service at QCH’s pantry.  Sal Favia, former QCH Board Member and event founder, was honored for his role in establishing the event a decade ago.

Khahera, a dedicated volunteer at the Forest Hills Older Adult Center, was honored with the Irma Rodriguez Community Builder Award during the Queens Community House’s annual Celebrating Local Heroes event. Originally from India, Khahera immigrated to Queens in 1972 and has since become an integral part of the community. For over two decades, he has selflessly contributed his time to various roles at QCH, including assisting in the kitchen, managing the food pantry, and providing support in the office.

 “I get involved because it’s our neighborhood, you know, lots of different, different nationalities,” Khahera said. “People come there, and it’s very good for the old people to help out.”

His dedication extends beyond his daily responsibilities; Khahera ensures that essential services like the food pantry operate smoothly, offering vital support to neighbors in need. His commitment and positive spirit have made a lasting impact on the Forest Hills community, earning him admiration and recognition at the award ceremony.

Khahera’s journey from a career in computer engineering to volunteerism exemplifies the transformative power of community involvement.

Paul Khahera, a devoted volunteer at QCH’s Forest Hills Older Adult Center for over 25 years, received the Irma Rodriguez Community Builder Award for his selfless service and commitment to his neighborhood.

 

Sal Favia, former board member and co-founder of Queens Community House’s annual Celebrating Local Heroes event, was honored for his significant contributions during this year’s ceremony. Favia joined QCH’s board a decade ago, drawn by the organization’s comprehensive services and impactful community outreach. His tenure saw the inception of the spring fundraiser, now a cornerstone event honoring local trailblazers and fostering community cohesion.

“When I did join, it was a really great experience,” Favia said. “We got to serve the community, which is really, really cool.” It’s really neat that they chose me, and it feels really good to be recognized for doing the work that I did in the organization.”

Beyond board responsibilities, Favia actively engaged in volunteer efforts at QCH’s Pomona Center, organizing festive events and food distributions with colleagues.

“Not only is Queens Community House important to the community, but I think it’s really important to give back,” Favia said. “And these volunteer events and serving the people in the community and bringing them to a better place also gives you a good feeling about yourself and the things that you’re doing. So, they’ve been expanding their programs, and it’s incredible how much they’ve expanded over the last 10 years. But I really think it’s important to keep the community together as a whole.”

His dedication to community service continues to inspire, highlighting QCH’s role in promoting inclusivity and resilience across Queens.

Sal Favia, former QCH Board Member and co-founder of the “Celebrating Heroes” event, was recognized for his pivotal role in establishing the event.

 

Over the years, QCH has remained steadfast in its dedication to Queens, adapting its services to meet the diverse and complex needs of its residents.

The “Celebrating Heroes” event not only celebrates individuals but also underscores QCH’s ongoing mission to foster community resilience and empowerment across Queens.

Suspect Arrested in Kissena Park Assault Case

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

Courtesy Crime Stoppers

Christian Giovani Landi, a 25-year-old migrant from Ecuador, was arrested early Tuesday morning in Corona, New York, following a week-long manhunt sparked by a brazen assault in Kissena Corridor Park.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Authorities have apprehended a suspect in connection with the shocking sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl in a Queens park.

The arrest early Tuesday morning follows a week-long manhunt that gripped the city after the brazen attack last Thursday. Police identified the suspect as Christian Giovani Landi, a 25 year old migrant from Ecuador who entered the U.S. through Eagle Pass, Texas, in June 2021. He was taken into custody around 1:30 a.m. after vigilant members of the community recognized him from surveillance images released by the NYPD.

According to police sources, the suspect was located at a single-room-occupancy dwelling in Corona, just three miles from the scene of the assault at Kissena Corridor Park in Flushing. Upon spotting him, several individuals intervened, resulting in a physical altercation that left the suspect with minor injuries. He was subsequently transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

Authorities have described the apprehended individual as a “strong person of interest” in the case but have not yet filed formal charges.

The assault, which occurred in broad daylight, sent shockwaves through the community. Police recounted that the suspect approached the two 13-year-olds as they finished playing soccer, brandishing a large machete-style knife. He coerced them into a wooded area, where he allegedly tied their wrists with a shoelace and sexually assaulted the girl before stealing their cellphones and fleeing.

In response to the incident, the NYPD swiftly mobilized, deploying sketches based on descriptions provided by the victims, including a distinctive tattoo of a boar on the suspect’s chest. Surveillance footage captured the suspect on a bicycle, further aiding investigators in their search.

The arrest comes on the heels of a $10,000 reward offered by authorities for information leading to the suspect’s capture and conviction. Police credit the quick identification and apprehension to the cooperation of the community and the bravery of the victims in providing crucial details.

Authorities have indicated that further updates on charges and court proceedings will be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.

Courtesy NYPD

Identified with the help of surveillance images and community vigilance, the migrant man is a prime suspect in the alleged coercion, assault, and robbery of two 13-year-olds last Thursday.

From NYPD to Assemblyman Candidate, Meet Kenneth Paek

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

Mohamed Farghaly

 

Kenneth Paek, an experienced NYPD veteran, seeks to become Assemblyman in District 25, focusing on public safety, economic reform, and education.

 

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Kenneth Paek, a seasoned NYPD veteran with a distinguished career spanning precinct duty to specialized units, is now vying for the position of Assemblyman in District 25. His candidacy is defined by a commitment to public safety, economic reform, and educational improvement, rooted in his deep-seated passion for community service and his extensive experience in law enforcement. Paek is one of the candidates seeking to challenge current Assemblywoman Nily Rozic.

Kenneth and his wife, Eun Paek have been married for 20 years and reside in Oakland Gardens, with their children, Katelyn and Brenden. Their personal experiences navigating the challenges of raising a family in New York City inform Paek’s policies aimed at improving community life and securing a brighter future for all residents.

Paek’s journey in law enforcement began in the 5th Precinct and evolved through roles in high-stakes units like the Emergency Services Unit, where he handled complex cases including incidents involving weapons of mass destruction. Paek’s career spans over two decades in the New York City Police Department, where he went on to serve as a Public Safety Sergeant at the 109th Precinct.

Motivated by a lifelong aspiration to serve and protect, Paek entered law enforcement to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. His decision to run for Assemblyman stems from a desire to continue his public service in a broader capacity, advocating for policies that prioritize safety and empower local law enforcement agencies.

Central to Paek’s campaign is his critique of recent bail reforms, which he believes jeopardize public safety by swiftly releasing potentially dangerous offenders back into communities. This stance resonates deeply with constituents concerned about crime rates and community security, despite the challenges of engaging residents wary of recent legislative changes.

“I started feeling like this bail reform, like while I’m putting my life on the line, I’m putting my police officer’s life on the line to catch that person and they are on the street again,” Paek said. “You know, people do make mistakes, but the same time you don’t make mistakes by using a weapon to rob somebody, that’s not a mistake.”

His campaign emphasizes his commitment to ensuring safety in local neighborhoods, drawing on his firsthand experience addressing community concerns and maintaining law and order. Paek believes that with this breadth of experience, it equips him with a unique perspective on community safety and crisis management, crucial skills he intends to leverage in Albany.

“I’m gonna start advocating, I’m gonna be the the loudest voice amplifier in Albany or the city hall trying to educate these people,” Paek said. “At the same time, it kind of boils down to safety, right? Like I want to go to work without getting slashed. I want to go to work without getting shot, whether you’re Democrats or whether Republican. I’m going to educate them. I’m going to persuade them we need to change these rules and regulations.”

In addition to an emphasis on law enforcement, Paek understands the challenges faced by small businesses in New York City. He advocates for reducing bureaucratic red tape and regulations to foster job creation and stimulate economic growth. Paek promises to fight for fiscal responsibility in government, vowing to cut wasteful spending and promote efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

Campaigning actively by personally canvassing neighborhoods, Paek is undeterred by these obstacles. In a district with approximately 7,000 registered Republican voters, he estimates needing around 1,200 votes to secure victory in the primary—a goal he pursues with passion, addressing voter concerns face-to-face and through community outreach efforts.

On criminal justice reform, Paek advocates for a balanced approach that combines tough penalties for repeat and violent offenders with rehabilitative programs aimed at younger individuals to prevent recidivism. His stance reflects his belief in strengthening law enforcement capabilities while fostering initiatives that address root causes of crime.

In navigating political challenges, Paek emphasizes amplifying district concerns in Albany, promising to advocate for regulatory changes based on community feedback and his extensive law enforcement background. His candidacy gains traction through grassroots support and a well-organized campaign bolstered by significant fundraising efforts.

“I want to make city lot safer for everybody that that lives in the five boroughs, in New York State and New York City,” Paek said. “I was telling people, I was telling my voters, don’t just call me on your good days, call me on your bad days. Meaning that, coming from a cop background, people don’t call 911 when they’re having a birthday parties or a good time. People always calls like in emergencies. If you got any worries, concerns and ideas that could make my district and my city better, contact me and I’m all in for it.”

District 25 encompasses a diverse array of neighborhoods in Queens, including areas that have seen rapid demographic changes in recent years. Paek’s candidacy is positioned to resonate with voters seeking a leader who understands local issues and is committed to implementing practical solutions.

The Assemblyman position in District 25 carries significant responsibilities, including voting on legislation, approving state spending, and weighing in on gubernatorial vetoes. Paek’s candidacy underscores his readiness to take on these responsibilities and advocate vigorously on behalf of his constituents in Albany. In New York City, early voting is held from June 15 to June 23. There is a one day break before the primary on June 25.

 

 

His candidacy challenges Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, driven by his extensive law enforcement background and commitment to community service.

Surrogate Court Candidate Holds Rally Ahead of Early Voting

BQE Admin on June 19, 2024

 

Wendy Li, a candidate for surrogate court, speaks to rally-goers in Flushing. Credit: Jean Brannum

 

By Jean Brannum | jbrannum@queensledger.com

Surrogate Judge candidate Wendy Li hosted one last rally in front of the Queens Public Library in Flushing before early voting on June 14. 

Li, who promises to challenge the political ties in the surrogate court, galvanized supporters to vote early in the upcoming election. Most rally-goers and campaign staff spoke Chinese to the crowd. Li is known for having strong support of the Asian community in Queens. 

“We’re going to return the power to the people, and we’re going to have a better surrogate court that works for everyone,” Li said. 

Li also plans to challenge the court corruption related to adult guardianship. Sam Kleinplatz, a supporter, said he will vote for Wendy to end the monetary connections between surrogate courts and guardianship appointments. He found out about Li when he went to the borough president’s office to complain about the issue and met volunteers for Li’s campaign. 

The surrogate court oversees cases related to estates and dependents of the deceased. The judge will also appoint lawyers for the cases. Lawyers often receive payment from the proceedings.

An ABC7 investigation found that the adult guardianship system allows for so-called guardians to take financial advantage of their clients. Since guardianship strips adults of their right to decide how they spend their money and allows guardians to isolate adults from family and friends, the lack of accountability can lead to elder abuse. The investigation found evidence of judges in charge of guardianship cases receiving campaign donations from those in charge of guardianships. 

Another part of Li’s campaign is her lack of ties to political parties. The Queens Democratic Party endorsed Judge Cassandra Johnson. Li hopes to challenge the Party’s ties to the surrogate court. She hopes to bring diversity to the court and help people with language barriers. 

“For me, I think it’s important that our panels are actually from all communities, not just from one community. That means we will have attorneys who might be able to speak multiple languages,” Li told the Queens Ledger in a previous interview. “The diversity of the attorneys, especially the diversity of the language, is very important. I want to make our bench and our attorney panel more inclusive.”

Li reiterated that it is important for people to vote. The early voting period started on June 15 and will close on June 23. 

Click to read more about Li’s campaign platforms and to learn about Cassandra Johnson.



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