Click the button below to read the Woodhaven Residents' Block Association's newsletter and learn about all of the exciting things going on in our great community. Jamaica Avenue was originally named Jamaica Plank Road.

January 31, 2012 Weather Notes, Our NYPD, Happy New Year 4709, Year of the Dragon Woodhaven Developments By:Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District This has really been some “non winter”, it has been great! No snow to speak of and warm sunny weather. Think warm, for the return to Daylight Savings time is only 41 days away followed by the beginning of Spring only 50 days away! As I stated our 102nd Precinct has received no additional Police Officers from the last graduation class, this means again as in 2010 no Police Officers for 2 of the last 3 years. Our Woodhaven needs additional fine professional men and women for our Precinct. We thank you our 102nd Precinct Deputy Inspector Armando DeLeon, our Lieutenants, Sergeants and Police Officers for holding the line and you know that our good thoughts and prayers are with each one of you always as you patrol our Streets and keep us safe. Remember, leave your porch lights on! Also if you see people loitering where they don’t belong or walking into driveways or on the side of your homes, do not confront them, call 911. Important Telephone numbers Woodhaven’s CPOP Police Officer P.O. Alsemi Ioele his telephone number is 718 805-3237, the Community Affairs Officer, P.O. Joseph T. Martins and P.O. Jose Severino their telephone number is 718 805-3215 Anti-Terror Hotline number 1-888-nyc-safe (1-888-7233). If you see something, say something. Emergencies and suspicious persons call 911 and if anyone presents themselves as police officers ask to see a badge and identification, both before admitting them to your home, if they hesitate call 911. Woodhaven supports the 102 Precinct N.Y.’s Finest. Sadly, Queens lost another lovely leading lady recently Dee Garvey. Lady Dee was a hardworking Community Activist who worked tirelessly for the Woodhaven American Legion Post 118 as President of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary a true Patriot and a role model for all the young women that she mentored and guided. She also encouraged them to be involved with government and to practice true American values, for her Community and for Queens for which she will be well remembered. As I observed all of our Chinese friends and neighbors enjoy the Chinese Lunar New Year of 4709 I thought of our own “Malaysian Lion Dancers” that appear yearly at our “Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival”. These Dancers are so colorful and exciting. Now we are entering the Chinese Lunar New Year of 4709, the Year of the Dragon. The Dragon is a very strong symbol of courage and prosperity. So let us hope that this Second New Year of 2012 is one of individual courage in all of our endeavors and Prosperity for us all. So may I wish you Kung Hei Fat Choi Happy New Year! May God Bless Our Leaders, May God Bless Our Armed Forces fighting Terrorism on foreign shores, so that we may be safe at home, and May God Bless Our America. January 24, 2012 Our Jewel, Muni-Meters and Happy New Year! Woodhaven Developments By:Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District This past weekend when the snow arrived it was somewhat scary. Although the forecast was for 3 to 6 inches, I couldn’t help but have the feeling of “de’ja’vu” from last year. Since the snowstorms of 2010, any forecast is frightening. But, it wasn’t that bad and we continue to have a mild beautiful winter. Let us hope that it remains this way. Every year the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation composes a “Wish List” for the New Year. In all of our years for the last many many years our Wish List has consisted of two major “Wishes”. They were 1. The repair and painting of our Jamaica Avenue J Line Elevated structure and 2. A new concessionaire for “Our Jewel of Forest Park” the Forest Park Carousel, hopefully an Artisan that would repair and renovate it with loving care while making it a profitable venture. The search for a new concessionaire has continued for two years now. As I said last week, in a New York publication “there may be a light at the end of the tunnel” for an excellent concessionaire with a successful track record, and then on to Historic Landmarking. As you know the GWDC and then with the assistance of the WBID accomplished the J Line Elevated structure repair and painting, which was completed just in time for the Holidays. Now the work continues on the Jamaica Avenue stanchions. Last week I appeared on a New York City T.V. station along with a business owner commenting on the installation of “Muni-Meters” on our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue. I expressed my concern that it may be easier to convert these muni-meters if there is an increase in the rate of parking per hour. At this time, it is difficult for our shoppers to pay 25 cents for 15 minutes (1 dollar for an hour) and that we would not be condusive to any further increases; for it is detrimental to business. I also stated that our small shopping strips in Queens unlike Manhattan can not sustain high meter parking rates. Hopefully when the muni-meters are installed we will see no increase in the parking meter rate. Now we are entering the Chinese Lunar New Year of 4709, the Year of the Dragon. The Dragon is a very strong symbol of courage and prosperity. So let us hope that this Second New Year of 2012 is one of individual courage in all of our endeavors and Prosperity for us all. To all of our Chinese friends and neighbors Kung Hei Fat Choi. God Bless Our Woodhaven, May God Bless Our Leaders, May God Bless Our Armed Forces and May God Bless America. January 10, 2012 Our Woodhaven in Retrospect and Our Future Into 2012 Woodhaven Developments BY: Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District As we enter this second week of the New Year of 2012, we again reflect on 2011. A very important part of this past year and all of our years are Woodhaven’s Elected Officials. In 2011 our Woodhaven voted in Special Elections. Now in addition to our excellent current Elected Officials we have a new U.S. Congressman, Honorable Robert L.Turner joining Honorable Gregory W. Meeks and Honorable Nydia Valasquez on the Federal Level of Government. Also on our N.Y.S. level we now have newly Elected N.Y.S. Assemblyman Honorable Michael G. Miller. These new Leaders along with our Honorable Eric A. Ulrich and Honorable Elizabeth S.Crowley our New York City Councilmembers and Honorable Helen M. Marshall our Queens Borough President make us realize how very fortunate we are to have such excellent Elected Officials. They will continue their inspired and strong leadership throughout the year 2012. As we enter this New Year may these past years portent the beginning of a bright safe future in 2012. During 2011 the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation has sponsored a very successful “Finally Spring” Dinner Dance. The Honorees were Our “Man of the Year 2011” James F. Rooney Esq, our longtime well respected Woodhaven lawyer, Our “Woman of the Year 2011” Margie A. Schmidt of Schmidt’s Confectionery, who has for generations kept Woodhaven’s sweet tooth sweet. Our “Businessowner of the Year 2011” Binder Vasudev, owner of the new Cordon Bleu Caterers, who has made such a great economic investment into our Woodhaven, “Our Businessman of the Year 2011” Dominick Brienza, owner of Sal’s Pizzeria a former GWDC and WBID Officer, owner of one of the best Pizzeria’s in Woodhaven and our “Special Recognition Award 2011” Deputy Inspector Armando DeLeon the Commanding Officer of our 102nd Precinct for his timely professional response and support of our Community residents.This Dinner Dance with these well deserving Honorees was very enjoyable. Also during 2011 the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation has sponsored the “Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival 2011.” Which has been chosen the “Best Street Fair in Queens” it was a tremendous success. This day was as advertised “Wonderful!” and it was once again a Happy, Safe, Enjoyable “Family Day.” This well attended Festival also showcased our Wonderful Entertainers and Jamaica Avenue Stores and Businesses. It also displayed our beautiful homes and our stable strong Community. This past year the Woodhaven Business Improvement District welcomed many new stores and businesses with large dollar investments on Jamaica Avenue from Dexter Court to 100th Street. These monies being spent on these new as well as on our older locations. Our Award Winning Woodhaven Business Improvement District continued into our 17th year with cleaning of our Avenue, graffiti vandalism removal and may promotions, most of all our Holiday Season Promotions. Our 102nd Precinct has worked very hard to keep our Communities safe. Our 102nd Precinct Commanding Office Deputy Inspector Armando DeLeon and our professional 102nd Precinct Police Officers, under his leadership, with the support of their Lieutenants and Sergeants worked with us in our little town of Woodhaven. As we enter 2012 we have a feeling of security, because of our NYPD truly N.Y’s Finest, has been evident throughout our Great City of New York. This being in spite of the eminent threat of terrorism. This is also a Tribute to the Leadership, of our Mayor, Honorable Michael R. Bloomberg and his excellent NYPD Police Commissioner Raymond W. Kelly. So now we look ahead with these fine Leaders, our 102nd Precinct, our Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation and our Woodhaven Business Improvement District into another year of Progress for our strong vital safe Little Town of Woodhaven. May God Bless our Leaders, May God Bless our Armed Forces and May God Bless America. January 3, 2012 Our Award Winning Woodhaven Business Improvement District's Jamaica Avenue Christmas Lights Dim, And My Wish List For 2012 Woodhaven Developments By: Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District As we approach the New Year let me share with you my wish list for our Woodhaven in 2012. First, never having to fight again the MTA implementing their draconian proposals of eliminating our Q56 Bus line and our Z Train on the “J” Elevated Line. This fight was fought and won, let us not have to fight this fight again. Second, The rezoning of our Woodhaven Community in order to preserve our neighborhoods character. The painting and repair of our “J” Line Elevated Structure and the repair of the stanchions along Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue from Dexter Court to 100th Street. This wish came to fruition as of March 2011. Thirdly, The Forest Park Carousel-restoration of the Carousel, enclosing the Carousel for all-year- round use, a restaurant in line with the restaurant in Bryant Park or Tavern on the Green within the enclosure. Also landmarking of the Carousel so that it will be preserved and eligible for preservation funding. And last but Most Importantly More Police Officers for our 102nd Precinct. My wishes will be pursued by our Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation with diligence through 2012. Our Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation through the last 39 years has fought to keep our quality of life strong and our Woodhaven stable and we deserve to have these projects, our wishes accomplished this year. It has been too long a wait, but our time has come in 2012. Now to our Award Winning (named the Best Business Improvement District in New York City in 2000) Woodhaven Business Improvement District’s Woodhaven Tree. At the beginning of December our real Christmas Tree, in our Forest Parkway Plaza area was named number 4, shared with Sunnyside, of the Top Ten NYC Holiday Trees. The Listing being 1. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, 2. Citipond at Bryant Park,3. Broad St. at the New York Stock Exchange, 4. Sunnyside Holiday Tree and Woodhaven Tree in Forest Parkway Plaza 5. Seaport Chorus Tree, 6. Metropolitan Museum of Art, 7. Brooklyn Borough Hall, 8. American Museum of Natural History, 9. Washington Square Park Christmas Tree, 10 Peace Tree at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine. After placing purchased trees for many years, our real tree was planted over 25 years ago, when our Forest Parkway Plaza Area was last renovated. As our trees on Jamaica Avenue, our Woodhaven Tree has flourished. This naming is a very prestigious honor for our Woodhaven that we all can be proud of. So please remember be aware when you park your car by a meter, the change is now 25 cents for 15 minutes. . This change is throughout Queens. If you encounter any problems with this change, please call our Office at 718 805-0202 or 718 805-0760 for assistance. So now the music will be silenced, our Jamaica Avenue Christmas lights will be dimmed along with our Menorah lights and our Christmas Tree will be darkened after “Little Christmas” . These all signs being of our Holiday Season along with our year 2011 coming to an end. Although this year is coming to an end, please continue to shop our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue’s local stores and businesses. They support the Community so please support them. As we enter 2012 May we wish to you and for us all a Very Happy, Healthy, Prosperous and Safe 2012. May God Bless Our Armed Forces, those that are fighting on foreign shores as we enter this New Year, May God Bless Our Leaders and May God Bless Our America. December 27, 2011 Santa Pictures, This Year Mild Weather, No Winter Storm Woodhaven Developments By:Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District On the Saturdays, December 10, 2011 and December 17, 2011 Santa in his beautiful sleigh circa 1877 owned and driven by Joe Trippi (with his 84 year old mom ringing the bells) rode along Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue and then Santa took free pictures with the young and the young at heart. This WBID sponsored picture taking took place in the “Forest Park Plaza” area off Jamaica Avenue. We took over 300 pictures, gave out goodies and made everyone happy. Also, our WBID Santa’s helpers distributed quarters along our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue to parking cars for 20 minutes free parking with a flyer stating “compliments of the WBID and thank you for Shopping Woodhaven.” This was very much appreciated by these car owners. This promotion is only on our Jamaica Avenue, only in Woodhaven! Then Santa and all his helpers sang together “We wish you a Merry Christmas, we wish you a Happy Hanukah, We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year”! So we hope that you spent your last days of Shopping on our WBID’s Jamaica Avenue at our Stores and Businesses that care. And while we think of Jamaica Avenue, and parking we must think of the increase in our Parking Meters from 20 minutes for 25 cents to 15 minutes for 25 cents. Our Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation and our Woodhaven Business Improvement District fought this on behalf of our Storeowners, Businessowners, all small Mom and Pop stores, our businesses and our shoppers and residents now though have to pay this increase. So if a young person wearing a WBID hat approaches your car and gives you a quarter and a flyer, please accept it and use it to pay for your 1st 15 minutes of parking. This year we were very fortunate, for we experienced mild weather shopping for all your Christmas and Hanukkah presents. Also, Christmas Day was sunny which made travelling to “Grandma’s house” an easy ride. Not like last year! Remember the strong winter storm that hit New York City? Our little Woodhaven was a winter wonderland and our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue,our homes and streets were covered with deep snow” As I wrote at that time it is so hard to believe what we experienced and coped with this time last year. “In spite of this, there are some hearty souls out shopping at the stores that are open. These stores being Scaturro’s, fruit stores and some large delis. The Post Office was closed and the Banks open for limited hours. There are few cars and no buses and no mail deliveries”.So now , with our beautiful Tree (which was choosen by the Daily News as the fourth Best Tree in all of New York City) trimmed with handmade decorations from the students of the Forest School P.S. 97, St. Luke’s Nursery School, The St. Thomas the Apostle School and St. Elizabeth’s School. These decorations if not placed on the Tree and on the fence near the Tree are on display at New Pops Restaurant and the Avenue Restaurant, drop by and see them there. We hope that you had a Very Merry Christmas and are enjoying a Very Happy Hannukah. This Saturday, for New Year’s Eve be safe and We Wish You a Very Happy, Healthy, Safe And Prosperous New Year to you and yours. May God Bless Our Armed Forces, May God Bless Our Leaders and May God Bless Our America December 20, 2011 The WBID and Our Sponsored Events, Wish You A Happy Hanukkah, A Merry Christmas and A Happy, Healthy, Safe and Prosperous New Year Woodhaven Developments By: Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District After our glorious Friday evening Christmas Tree (with new lights, along with the new lights on the four little trees all courtesy of the WBID) and Menorah Lighting Ceremony at our “Forest Parkway Plaza”, our “Welcome Santa to Woodhaven Parade” took place on Saturday. It was sunny and mild ! Our marchers young and old lined up for our Parade. The beautiful, sparkling Antique Cars, courtesy of Empire Cars along with our costumed characters, with our Fire Engine Co. 293 Truck, 102nd Precinct Auxillary Police and our 102nd Precinct Police Officers kicked off the Parade with the ROTC Franklin K. Lane High School Marching Band. In the Parade, the young men and women with Military Bearing marched proudly down Jamaica Avenue with their precision National Award-Winning Rifle Team. I would like to thank Sergeant Eddie Carr for his assistance now as their new leader succeeded their great ROTC Leader Jose L. Silveria who has retired. They were the highlight of the Parade. Also, P.S. 97, “The Forest School” and St. Luke’s Nursery School were true troopers and marched from 98th Street to Dexter Court! We thank them for being there for the WBID and the GWDC. All of these great Parade participants, were cheered on by Store and Businessowners that came out of their stores, businesses, the Woodhaven Senior Citizens Center and the WRBA who waved and applauded our hearty Woodhaven wonderful marchers. At the end of Parade the festivities where Santa, Mrs. Claus and our Costumed Characters took pictures with the children and distributed candy canes and free Pizza all courtesy of the Woodhaven Business Improvement District. The next Saturday,December 10, 2011 and Saturday December 17, 2011 before Santa sat on his Throne for the Free Pictures, we took a little ride along our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue, from Dexter Court to 100th Street. Santa Claus rode in the antique sleigh circa 1877. As we rode along the Avenue ringing the sleigh bells, and wishing all Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukah, the response was very warm and positive. We, at the WBID, hope that those gifts and toys found their way to Santa from our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue Stores from 100th Street to Dexter Court - our Avenue, where the Christmas Lights are strung across the length of the Avenue, and music fills the air, where WBID Security ride and walk and the lighted Menorah is visible from our WBID/GWDC window on Forest Parkway; it being near our brightly lighted and decorated (with decorations from our Woodhaven school children) of the “Forest Park School” , (P.S. 97), St. Luke’s Nursery School, St. Thomas the Apostle and St. Elizabeth School. Our Christmas Tree (which was chosen as the 4th place winning tree, out of 10 throughout N.Y.C. by the Daily News. Be proud Woodhaven!) and our little Trees sparkling in the night. All of these Christmas and Hanukkah Events are a gift to Woodhaven from the WBID, so thank them by Shopping Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue for the Holidays. Also remember that our Jamaica Avenue Parking Meters costs have been raised, (Remember we fought this increase) the cost has changed to 25 cents for 15 minutes. Now more than ever Shop locally, Shop Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue. As Holiday Music fills the air, may we, at this time, our WBID President Mathew Xenakis, our GWDC/WBID Staff Maureen Bermingham, Lisa Komninos, James DeMauro and me, as Executive Director, Maria Thomson, wish you a Happy Hanukkah and, as the song goes, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas, “We Wish You a Happy Hanukah , We Wish You a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy, Prosperous and Safe New Year”. May God Bless Our Men and Women of our Armed Forces who are bravely protecting our America so that we may be safe this Holiday Season. May God Bless Our Leaders and May God Bless Our America. December 13, 2011 Shop Woodhaven on Our Woodhaven Business Improvement District, Our Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony Woodhaven Developments By:Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District Our Christmas and Hanukah Holidays are here! On Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue from Dexter Court to 100th Street, our Award Winning Woodhaven Business Improvement District sponsored Holiday Lights are brightly shining, marking the beginning and the end of Woodhaven’s portion of Jamaica Avenue. (As since the inception of our Woodhaven Business Improvement District, I have wanted to mark our boundaries, so that the difference in our Jamaica Avenue is very evident!) Also, we are the only Commercial Strip in our area with Lights!) Our Holiday Music sounds again (as during the last 16 years) fills the Avenue air, as shoppers feel the Holiday Spirit” singing along with the songs, as they shop. As I have stated before,our Stores also are in tune and bright with Bargains, Bargains, Bargains! So Shop all of the many stores old and new on our Jamaica Avenue. Every Store offering 30% to 50% discounts. If you need the latest hot computer, or any computer components, cell phones, TV sets, Holiday cards, special collectibles, unique gifts or toys; you don’t have to fight the crowds at the malls, shop right here. It’s all right here in you neighborhood, within walking distance. Dress your family or yourself for there are boutique stores with suits blouses, dresses, jackets, leather and down and New Year’s Eve gowns for the pretty ladies. Also, jackets, shirts, casual or formal slacks for all those handsome Woodhaven men (one men’s store offering 1 suit, shirts and ties for free with other purchases). Let our Storeowners offer you their personalized services. So don’t travel to the Malls, with their lack of salespersons, impersonal indifferent service, long lines, higher prices, and finding your merchandise on your own! So Shop locally, and save precious GAS, eat locally and keep your money in your Community, your neighborhood especially now when economically it is so important to our small store and businessowners who depend on you for their livelihood. Remember your Storeowners and Businessowners, through your Award Winning, Woodhaven’s Business Improvement District clean our streets 7 days a week, maintain our Avenue’s 98% graffiti vandalism free environment, has brightly lighted Street Lights, Holidays Lights and Holiday Music. Our Woodhaven Business Improvement District also has private Security patrolling our Avenue Streets for your safety. As I have stated before, this is the only Business Improvement District in our Southeast Queens area, (there are only three others and located all in Jamaica.) where your Stores and Businesses because of their monetary contributions bring you all of these amenities. So spend your gift money in your Avenue Stores and Businesses that care. This year we have welcomed some new Stores and Businesses to our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue Family. Look for them in our WBID Advertisements. The strong monetary investment of the new Stores and Businesses on our Avenue are a true testament to our Woodhaven’s vitality and stability. As I have always stated, you need a strong Commercial Strip to support a strong Residential Community. Our Woodhaven Business Improvement District Staff and I worked very hard (as always) planning our Woodhaven Business Improvement District sponsored “Holidays in Woodhaven Weekend.” On Friday December 2, 2011, the weather was mild and clear when our Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony took place. It was a beautiful evening. The Woodhaven Business Improvement District Ceremony then began. The Color Guard from Franklin K. Lane H.S., presented the Colors, and Pledge of Allegiance was recited lead by Deputy Inspector Armando DeLeon our Commanding Officer of the 102nd Precinct. Then I made a statement explaining Chanukah the “Festival of Lights” After the statement there was a symbolic lighting of the Menorah. All of the children delighted in the bright lights of the Menorah and all stated “Happy Chanukah”. “Twas the Night Before Christmas” was recited, (with the assistance of the little and big voices in the crowd) by Honorable Joseph P. Addabbo our NYS Senator and Stephen Esposito, GWDC President and WBID Board Member. In attendance were Our N.Y.S. Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, N.Y.S. Assemblyman Michael G. Miller, N.Y.C. Councilman Erich A. Ulrich, N.Y.C. Councilwoman Elizabeth S. Crowley, and Deputy Inspector Armando DeLeon, the Commanding Officer of our 102nd Precinct and a very honored surprise guest Honorable Gregory W. Meeks, our U.S. Congressman, all conveyed their best wishes to Woodhaven for a Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah and a Wonderful Holiday Season. Then it was time to meet our Costumed Characters who were introduced by Paul Rudolph Jr., WBID Board Member, the Christmas Mouse, The Christmas Rabbit, Shrek, Frosty the Snowman our old friend Rudolph, and the Stars of the evening, Mr. and Mrs. Claus. The children and all in attendance were so happy to see them. The countdown commenced by Santa 10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1! Then our real Christmas Tree with new red, white and blue lighting on our Christmas Tree ( and on our little trees in honor of our American Armed Forces) the WBID’s gift to you in our Forest Parkway Plaza with their bright lights! were lighted then all of the children wearing their Santa Hats, courtesy of the WBID and those young at heart in attendance cheered with delight. Everyone was thanked for attending. Especially with a big thank you to our 102nd Precinct Commanding Officer and our 102nd Precinct Police Officers. Then wearing their Santa Hats proudly all joined in singing “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “Jingle Bells. Then I requested that everyone lift the red white and blue glowsticks and our small American Flags that the WBID had distributed, it was stated let us remember our brave Armed Forces that are not with us this evening and are fighting for our freedom. Then I lead in the singing of “God Bless America”. It was a great evening Our “Holiday Weekend” kickoff event was a great success and enjoyed by all the young and young at heart! Now don’t forget the Woodhaven Business Improvement District sponsors during the month of December, Santa and Friends, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” and “Frosty the Snowman” will be at the new Forest Parkway Plaza area (weather permitting) off Jamaica Avenue taking FREE YES, NO CHARGE PICTURES WITH OUR LITTLE ONES plus distributing goodies! on Saturday December 10 and December 17 from 1:00PM to 4:00PM. On these Saturdays look for Santa again riding along Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue which is now 98% Graffiti Vandalism Free and cleaned seven days a week. Please shop Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue for the Holidays in Woodhaven Taking Care of BIDness, in a small town Haven in the City and save precious gas! In my next article I will give your highlights from our very wet Welcome Santa to Woodhaven Parade. May God Bless the brave honorable men and women of our Armed Forces fighting for our way of Life, especially at this time of year so far away from home, and May God Bless Our America. November 29, 2011 Remember Our Holidays in Woodhaven in 2003? Have A Happy And Blessed Thanksgiving Woodhaven Developments By:Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District The weather has been very "balmy" for November, no very frigid days or snow. Just some cold rain. I hope that this "balmy" weather continues through this week and into our Woodhaven Business Improvement District's "Holidays in Woodhaven Weekend". I remember when on the night of our Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony in 2003, we had a real heavy snowstorm. Our stage couldn't get here, for it had spun out on the Long Island Expressway and we had about a foot of snow and it still continued to snow. All of our families with their small children, we were not sure would show up. Also our Special Surprise Guest for the evening Honorable Michael R. Bloomberg, our Mayor, we were certain would not make it, all due to this blizzard. But, my Staff and I bought the Santa Hats, stickers, and giveaways also our star Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Holiday Characters to the tree with us, and hoped for the best. Well, to our surprise there were nearly 100 hearty Woodhavenites gathering in the cold and snow ready for Santa standing near our tree. Since we had no stage, we gathered around our beautiful Christmas Tree and with the sound system working we sang Jingle Bells and other Holiday songs. Everyone had their Santa Hats on and were cheery in spite of the heavy snowfall. Then, a car drove down from Forest Parkway in the deep snow and our Mayor Bloomberg was here! Through all of the snow, he made it to our Ceremony. He was promptly given a special Santa hat by Jeff Lewis of Lewis’ of Woodhaven. Then our Mayor Bloomberg, wearing the Santa hat wished us very Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year. He proceeded to sing with us and speak to all those in attendance individually. Our Mayor was under the tree with us in the blizzard of snow. After spending a great deal of time with us, our Mayor left. We then, families and children WBID Board Members, my Staff and I most importantly Santa, Mrs. Claus and our Holiday Characters covered with snow all trugged home with the happy thoughts of Woodhavenites being there in a snowstorm to light our tree with our Mayor, good memories. So now, hopefully on a clear evening and day. So now mark your Calendars for this year’s Woodhaven Business Improvement District Sponsored Holidays in Woodhaven Weekend will arrive on Friday, December 2, 2011 at 6:30 P.M. with the Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony, Forest Parkway Plaza area off Jamaica Avenue. And the next day on Saturday December 3, 2011 the “Welcome Santa to Woodhaven” Parade, kicking off at 12:00 Noon from 100th Street marching down Jamaica Avenue to Dexter Court, where Santa and Mrs. Santa Claus will greet the children young and those young at heart. Also, after this weekend the Woodhaven Business Improvement District will take free pictures with Santa Claus and friends at our Forest Parkway Plaza area on Saturday, December 10, 2011 and December 17, 2011 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. (weather permitting). At this time of Thanksgiving, please give thanks for all that we have here in our great America and for those in our Armed Forces that perpetuate and preserve our freedom and keep us safe and free. Please remember these our protectors the Armed Forces in your thoughts this Thanksgiving. May God Bless them and May God Bless America. November 15, 2011 Veteran's Day, Our Forest Park Carousel, Lights Are Up! By:Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District It was truly wonderful to see that Veteran’s Day this year was so greatly acknowledged by our N.Y.C. Residents. . In the last few years, this day the Parade in Manhattan and the display of gratitude to these fine men and women of our Armed Services was mostly low key with a low crowd turn out. This year was different with more floats and cars carrying our WWII, Korean and Vietnam Vets as well as those from the wars of Desert Storm, Iraq and Afghanistan and Congressional Medal of Honor Awardees in cars and many marching proudly with more Marchers and Marching Bands, There were many Marching Bands, but this year for the first time our Franklin. K. Lane H.S. ROTC Marching Band and Rifle Team did not participate. They and honored Elected Officials held a Ceremony at Cypress Hills Cemetery for veterans buried there. In this way they honored our Heroes at rest here in the Community. These our Veterans, deserve every and any honors we can bestow upon them, for because of them and our current Armed Forces, our America and we as Americans are safe and free. So fly our American Flag, above all others (this being American Flag protocol)and if you know of a Veteran or you see a man or woman in uniform tell them “thank you”. Last year I stated “Recently there was a lot of activity with filming at our Forest Park Jewel “the Forest Park Carousel”. Being filmed there was the comedy film “The Sitter”. It is sad to see the Carousel, and its regal horses for the first time in two years unshuttered, knowing after this filming, the gates will come down and again it will go unused and unavailable to our Communities and our children. It is time for N.Y.C. Parks and Recreation to treat this our Forest Park Carousel, as the treasure it is. It is time to engage a professional artisan for its care and repair. Also to have someone with a passion for Carousels to be the Concessionaire there. In this way they will create an atmosphere that will make this Carousel a financial success as well as an enjoyable and entertaining destination for Queens and New York City. To do this, this “lowest bidder” procedure has to be waived. This procedure will only lead to an abusive uncaring individual winning this bid as we have seen in the past. This is not just another plastic “Merry Go Round”. This is a historic treasure, our jewel our Forest Park Carousel and as the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation has been stating for the last 15 years, to protect it, it should be Historically Landmarked.” Since that time a request for proposal has been let. Hopefully a “caring professional artisan” will submit a bid to operate our “Jewel”. Notes The Woodhaven Residents Block Association is selling Forest Park Carousel Tee shirts available at their Office. If you attend the 102nd Precinct Meeting this evening, you can pick up a free whistle. This 102nd Precinct Community Council "Whistle Program" will assist you in bringing attention to any unsafe situation. You can also call the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation or Woodhaven Business Improvement District at (718) 805-0202 to pick one up. You can call our Office for information on how to humanely keep away Racoons from your property. Remember if you See Something Say Something. It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! The Woodhaven Business Improvement District sponsored Christmas Lights are up along the 25 blocks of our Jamaica Avenue WBID District. Soon the music will be heard along our District adding spring to the step of our shoppers. Now with our newly painted Jamaica Avenue Elevated Lines (now completed and our J line named the best MTA train line in the City)the lights will glow brighter than ever before. Our Holiday Season Woodhaven Business Improvement District Sponsored Holidays in Woodhaven Weekend will arrive on Friday, December 2, 2011 at 6:30 P.M. with the Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony, Forest Parkway Plaza area off Jamaica Avenue. And the next day on Saturday December 3, 2011 the “Welcome Santa to Woodhaven” Parade, kicking off at 12:00 Noon from 100th Street marching down our newly repaved Jamaica Avenue to Dexter Court, where Santa and Mrs. Santa Claus will greet the children young and those young at heart. Also, after this weekend the Woodhaven Business Improvement District will take free pictures with Santa Claus and friends at our Forest Parkway Plaza area on Saturday, December 10, 2011 and December 17, 2011 from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. (weather permitting). Have A Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving.May God Bless Our Armed Forces who perpetuate our Freedom and May God Bless Our America. November 1, 2011 Police Safety on our Residential and Commercial Strips By: Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District The sun is still shinning brightly as it was at our 31st Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation sponsored Annual “Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival 2011”, another safe happy day. I can hardly believe that it has been more than a week ago. Now we are into beautiful Fall weather which we hope will last. But Mother Nature had other ideas! An ice and snowstorm. I hope every one came out of it well. At least we didn’t lose Cond Ed power, but sadly we did lose some trees. As you know, I am President of the 102nd Precinct Community Council, and we hold monthly meetings at the Moose Hall located at 87-34 118th Street in Richmond Hill, on the third Tuesday of the month across the street from the Precinct. This month the meeting will be held on Tuesday November 15, 2011 at 8:00 P.M. At these meetings many police problems are brought to the attention of our excellent Deputy Inspector DeLeon and his professional Police Officers. Our Commanding Officer, his Lieutenants, Sergeants and our Police Officers keep us very safe. This being evident in our Precinct being listed as the 22nd safest Precinct in the City of New York. This is quite a feat, for our Precinct is very undermanned. In the last two Police Academy Classes we have received no additional Police Officers. The fact is we need more Police Officers at our Precinct to protect our 4 communities (Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, Kew Gardens, and Ozone Park). They also cover all of Forest Park. This is why I cannot understand Community Board #9 which covers the same communities, listing our need for more Police Officers as number 6 on our Priority Expense Budget needs statement to New York City. This number 6 being after #1 the Mounted Police returning, #2 the Park Enforcement for Forest Park, #3 Pruning Contract for Forest Park, #4 Funding Universal Pre K Programs and continuing #5 to fund the Beacon Program at Middle School 210. Although these are credible and needed in our Communities, if we don't have enough Police Officers, none of these Programs in our Communities will be safe and protected. The statement made to justify the #6 rating of the need for more Police Officers at the 102nd Precinct. Is that “all the first 10 listed are equal”. But if this is the case, what is the harm in sending a message by making this # 6 rating #1? This would tell us that we support our Police Officers and we want more of them. I made this motion for the move from #6 to #1 at the CB # 9 Meeting, but although many voted for it, it was defeated and voted down. Our Communities need and would benefit by more Police presence on our residential streets and on our Commercial Strips. It is our thinking that just because our 102nd Precinct is doing an Excellent job, in spite of their low man and woman power they should be rewarded. The reward being assigning many more Police Officers to assist them in holding the line. They should not be penalized for doing a great job, by not receiving any Police Officers from the previous graduating classes. This December a new Class will be graduating from the Police Academy, so hopefully we in the 102nd Precinct and in Queens will get our fair share of these graduates. Remember, Shop Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue in this great Fall weather. May God Bless Our Armed Forces, May God Bless Our Coalition Forces, May God Bless Our Leaders and May God Bless America. October 27, 2011 Our Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival 2011, Our 31st Year, the Best Street Fair in Queens, Again a Safe, Happy, Sunny Family Day! By: Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District All week long prior to our Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival, sponsored and run by the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation, on Sunday, October 11, 2011, I was checking the weather forecasts. It was truly a nerve wracking time, but happily the forecast was great for a sunny, warm day. Our day was drenched with sunshine and the weather was perfect. So, the entertainment Program was on. The acrobatics of the Malaysian Lion Dancers were great and show stopping, with the drums and the Lion Dancers enchanting the crowd; and Deneille’s Dance and Exercise Studio of Woodhaven with their beautiful dancers from young to younger performed so professionally and were enjoyed by all. The Franklin K. Lane High School outdid themselves this year with the Drum Corps, the R.O.T.C. Cadets and their great Honor Guard and Ryfle Drill Corps under the leadership of Master Sergeant Eddie Carr (since the retirement of the wonderful Chief Master Sergeant Jose L. Silveira;) what a great group of young people; and the Imperial Dragon Hombu Dojo under the leadership of Kyoshi Myron were here for their 30th year. Our Musical Groups along our Avenue were just fantastic - Heartbreak Station who have been with us for years now and our two new groups Erik Lee and the Razors of Neirs Tavern and Solid State Band what great musicians, who had people dancing. Our Country Western Group this year was the “County Line ”; they really got our toes tapping and our feet dancing. The Line Dance instructor was leading ladies, gentlemen and youngsters in the art of Line Dancing and, as at all of our GWDC Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festivals, this year more than ever there was “Dancing in the Streets”. The theme of our Day again this year was “Patriotic Red, White and Blue”, and American Flags were flying proudly along Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue, from Dexter Court to 100th Street as always (and have been for the last nineteen or more years) and our GWDC Booth distributed over 300 small American Flags, red, white and blue pencils, “I Love Woodhaven” and Woodhaven Fire Department decals. Also, in keeping with the Country Western Music, Cowboy Hats could be seen worn by young and the young at heart. There was something for everyone. The Festival blocks marked by bright lights strung across our Jamaica Avenue courtesy of Illuminations by Arnold. Also represented were the 102nd Precinct Auxiliary Police, and many more non-for-profit groups. The NYPD and the N.Y. Fire Department recruiting future Fire Officers amongst the crowd and many N.Y.C. Agencies distributing information, give-a-ways, and offering free Medical Testing. Our Jamaica Avenue Restaurants welcomed in those that wanted seated service. Those participating were our own Pan Ugo Bakery, Beky Bakery, Avenue Diner, Mistura Pervana, Guadalupana Meat Market, El Puerto Mexicano and Arreola’s Grocery All the restaurants on our Avenue were very busy. Also, the businesses – Karako Suit Warehouse, the DeSano Chiropractic and Vitality Center, the Haven “Hallmark” Card Store, Woodhaven Pharmacy, Allstate Insurance, Harry’s Grocery, Dr. Castelli, Mayo Karate, R. & S. Army/Navy, Park Place Florist, and Healthmax Pharmacy. This year we had the beautiful Antique Classic Cars from the Empire Car Club. Our formal Ceremony for the day was held at 3:00 P.M. Our Elected Officials, Honorable Eric A. Ulrich, and Honorable Elizabeth S. Crowley our New York City Councilmembers were all on stage and they were introduced, all being Good Long-time Friends of our Woodhaven Community and then each spoke glowingly of the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation and our Great Woodhaven Community! As did our New York State Senator Honorable Joseph P. Addabbo who dropped by earlier and NYC Comptroller Honorable John C. Liu who visited us later. This year we missed Honorable Michael G. Miller, Our N.Y.S. Assemblyman being in attendance, get well soon. Then Awards were presented to two true Woodhaven Supporters. The first Award presented by our GWDC President Stephen Esposito was to Frank Castelli, owner of Beat the Clock Printing, a longtime well liked professional printer. This Award was accepted by Frank and his wife Jacqueline, who also received a bouquet of roses. The GWDC then presented the second Special Award. Our second Honoree was our own GWDC President Stephen Esposito. This Award was in recognition of his dedication, volunteerism and Leadership through these many years. Along with the plaque he received a bouquet of roses for his wife. This Award was presented to him by our WBID President Mathew Xenakis who was accompanied by his sons George and Manny who wore cowboy hats proudly. What a Great Day with Great Honorees! It was a wonderful day, and again the best Street Fair in Queens! To all of our Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue Stores and Businesses, all of our Local Organizations, the unique vendors and most of all the wonderful old and young, new happy homeowners and residents in attendance, a big “Thank You” (and if you don’t live here, consider moving into our little Woodhaven). Also, to our Sponsors – Honorable Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., N.Y.S. Senator; Honorable Michael G. Miller, N.Y.S. Assemblyman, Honorable Councilpersons Eric Ulrich and Honorable Elizabeth Crowley, Community Federal Savings Bank, P.C. Ricards, New York State Lottery, Woodhaven Business Improvement District, President Mathew Xenakis; Illuminations by Arnold; Rubie’s Costumes, our long-time Sponsor; Logan Bus Company; Queens County Savings Bank; Walker Funeral Home; Ohlert-Ruggiere; and our Excellent Local Newspapers, The Leader Observer, and The Queens Chronicle, Also, the New York Mets, Health First, and Dee and Dee Stores. This year our Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival for the 31st year, for more than a Quarter of a Century, was again a safe family day. The GWDC Staff thanks our supportive Board of Directors, President Stephen Esposito, our hardworking Staff – Maureen, Lisa, and James, who did a great job, coordinating this year and his assistant John and all the fine young people of Woodhaven who helped us that day a big thank you to our GWDC President Stephen Esposito, our GWDC Board and Staff for my beautiful bouquet of stunning flowers. It was so thoughtful of you all!!! Most of all, though, we thank you, the residents of Woodhaven , for you made this day the success it was, proving once again that Woodhaven is Strong, Stable and Safe. To you and all of our dignitaries, thank you for you came out for your and our Community. So Shop Woodhaven’s Jamaica Avenue. In this our Woodhaven – A Small Town Haven in the City where we were truly Blessed on this Day. On this and every day, fly our American Flag Proudly above all others. May God Bless Our Armed Forces, May God Bless Our Coalition Forces, May God Bless our Good Leaders and May God Bless America. This Memorial Day Observance, sponsored by the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation is held every year in memory of our Armed Forces that have been killed in the line of duty and those still fighting to preserve our safety and our freedom. God Bless Our Great America. September 15, 2011 Update on F.K. Lane, the Woodhaven Street Festival 2011 and GWDC's Sept. 11 remembrance meeting By: Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Woodhaven Business Improvement District In last week's article I gave you an update on our Franklin K. Lane H.S. and the near loss of our highly honored ROTC Airforce Program. I also noted that how in the last year and a half there have been many viable Programs (that would have assisted students in gaining employment in many specialized fields) that have been lost to this school and that some of our best educators, leading these programs at the school have been excessed and told that they no longer had positions. Why is F.K. Lane H.S. important to Woodhaven Queens? Because it is located in Woodhaven, near out homes and on our Commercial Strip and of great concern to us as to the programs and the curriculum they set forth for our students and our Community. At this time it is important that we place viable programs in creating new Campus Schools or as additional Programs to the existing Campus Schools. The two programs that will be proposed are The High School For Health And Medical Careers, for training in the Medical field and a Program dedicated Excellence through Arts and Media. These Programs will be excellent additions to F.K. Lane H.S. and would attract many new students to these High Schools. I will keep you informed as to the progress on these Programs. Excitement is filling the air and the late night oil is burning in our GWDC Office. Yes it is that time again! Our Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Board Staff and I are working very hard on the October 16, 2011 "Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival." All of our Woodhaven's Jamaica Avenue Stores and Restaurants are getting prepared for our 31st Annual Street Festival. (yes 31 years!) As I have stated, I remember the first "Wonderful Woodhaven Street Fair," a small Arts and Crafts Fair, with only Arts and Crafts vendors, no stores or businesses participating. The area covered 5 blocks and the hours were 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. What a difference now: our "Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival" is now on 10 blocks, from Woodhaven Boulevard to 80th Street with most of our own Jamaica Avenue Stores and Restaurants involved. It normally lasts from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., but this year it's ending at 5:00 p.m. (The city has shortened our Festival by 1 hour). The sales, signs and bargain tags are being readied and our Woodhaven's Jamaica Avenue restaurant menus are being prepared. The Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation Board and Staff are working very hard to sponsor and produce this festival which is no easy feat for our organization, and we are one of the few organizations that does it all. In order to gain the proper approvals and accomplish a successful, safe festival for 31 years it takes a lot of work! Remember, the GWDC sponsors this Street Festival on our own, no Professional Producer is involved, it's all us, my Staff and I - all part-timers! In this way our GWDC Board and small Staff who care about Woodhaven control this New York City renowned, safe Woodhaven Festival(which has been chosen as the "Best Street Fair" in Queens, now five years in a row!) So come out on Sunday, October 16, 2011 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Woodhaven's Jamaica Avenue from 80th Street to Woodhaven Boulevard. Bring the family for a safe, fun-filled Family Day. We will have pony rides, rides and games, antique cars and a variety of vendors with unique products and our great Woodhaven Stores, and Bargains. The entertainment for the Festival will be a country western band, featuring Country Western Music with line dancers and instruction and dancing in the streets. Also from Woodhaven, expect to hear "Heartbreak Station" with 50's and 60's songs. This year there will be a Special Feature, "The Malaysian Lion Dancers" of Chinese New Year's Celebration as they play foot-tapping, live musical entertainment. These thrilling musicians and dancers who were so great in past years will also be part of our entertainment program. Please have some good thoughts for sun for Sunday, October 16, 2011 for it to be just as it was last year, a warm and sunny day. Last week in honor of September 11, 2001, the Woodhaven Business Improvement District delivered American Flags and "Never Forget and Never Again" 9/11/01 and "God Bless America" Flyers to every business and store owner on Woodhaven's Jamaica Avenue from Dexter Court to 100th Street. On Sunday I attended the small but poignant Ceremony which was held at Dry Harbor Playground in Forest Park at the 9/11 Memorial Garden and Memorial Stone. This Memorial, a dream of the late Ed Walter and the American Day Committee, was made a reality in 2007. It was a somber Ceremony with many dignitaries and residents in attendance. Also representatives from the American Legion, the Fire Department, Police Department with many veterans of WWII and other wars in attendance. It was a good way to begin this day of remembrance. Our next GWDC Meeting will be on Tuesday evening, September 27, 2011 at 7:30 P.M. at our meeting location at St. Thomas the Apostle School, 87-49 87th Street, 1st Floor. At this meeting, as at all of our Annual September Meetings, there will be a "Special September 11, 2001 Remembrance." Please attend and share with us all your September 11, 2011 experiences, poems and your thoughts on this evening. May God Bless Our Leaders, May God Bless Our Armed Forces and Coalition Forces and May God Bless Our America. September 6, 2011 September 11, 2011 Remembered, FKL HS ROTC Program Saved, If You Received a Parking Ticket Woodhaven Developments By: Maria A. Thomson Executive Director Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation and Woodhaven Business Improvement District Notices of Two Important Information Number 1- The highly honored Franklin K. Lane H.S. ROTC Program, the leading Airforce ROTC Program in the United States, was nearly lost to our Queens, Brooklyn, and New York City last week. It appears that since Chief Master Sergeant Jose L. Silveira was retiring, unfortunately this opportunity was taken to try to discontinue this Program. Then because of the involvement of our Brooklyn and Queens Elected Officials namely in Queens on the City Level Councilwoman Elizabeth S. Crowley, Councilman Eric A. Ulrich and on the State Level State Senator Joseph P. Addabo Jr. and State Assemblyman Michael G. Miller our new Chancellor Dennis M. Walcott intervened and our ROTC Program was saved. This Airforce ROTC Program, now under the leadership of Master Sergeant Edward Carr and the administration of the Multicultural Campus School will now continue. SO, again thankfully they will be the Color Guard at our Woodhaven Ceremonies, they will appear at our Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival and march in the Queens, Brooklyn, and New York City Parades. In the last year and a half there have been many viable Programs (that would have assisted students in gaining employment in many specialized fields) that have been lost to this school. Some of our best educators, leading these programs at the school have been excessed and told that they no longer had positions. Since FK Lane H.S. is located in Woodhaven, near our homes and on our Commercial Strip it is of great concern to us as to the Programs and the curriculum they set forth for our students and our Community. More on this in my next article. Number 2- Our Woodhaven's Jamaica Avenue has again been victimized with "No Parking Anytime Signs" that remained posted and had not been removed by the MTA. This has caused parking tickets for $115.00 each to be issued. If you have received a parking ticket on Woodhaven's Jamaica Avenue since Friday September 2, 2011, please call our Woodhaven Business Improvement District Office at 718 805-0760 or 718 805-0202 and we will handle them for you. As I have stated before "Every year since 2001, the month of September has brought with it a very sad special feeling. It is a feeling that filled our very being and souls, because of the sad events of that day on September 11, 2001. It has been 10 years now and our wounds are still painful and strong. In September of 2002, I spoke at an Ecumenical Prayer Mass. The words that I wrote and stated at that time are still poignant now nine years later. I would like to share them again with you, so that we may reflect and pray. "Since last year, the sadness of September 11th, 2001 has been constant, as we in Woodhaven cope with the life stories of all those Heroes lost and their families that are suffering from their loss. The dirge of bagpipes and the flow of tears have been with us every day, and we grieve. We grieve for all of the innocent men, women, and children that were so brutally taken from us that fateful day. We grieve for our Majestic Twin Towers, forever taken from our skyline. These innocents were taken because they were Americans, and our Towers for they were symbols of America. Our eyes may be filled with tears, but our vision is clear. Our America is at War and we view the enemy, terrorism, through eyes of strength and with resolve. The men and women of our Armed Forces are fighting this War, against Terrorism with Bravery, not as our Enemy, who act in cowardice. Our Woodhaven supports these good defenders, in this War against these hateful Evil doers. And because of our good, we will be victorious against this evil. In this time of War, may our Leaders, our Country and our little Woodhaven be protected. May we be resolute in stating "Never Forget, Never Again." May God Bless Our Leaders, May God Bless Our Armed Forces, Coalition Forces, May God Bless Us All and Most of all May God Bless Our America. Woodhaven's own, Maria Thomson is Woodhaven's Woman of Distinction Woodhaven's own Maria Thomson was chosen by Honorable Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., our New York State Senator as the 15th Senatorial District's "Woman of Distinction 2011". The presentation of this prestigious Award was made in Albany, New York.