Shown at the John F. Kennedy Democratic Club of Jackson Heights annual dinner-dance at Bruno’s On the Boulevard are (l. to r.) City Councilmember Helen Sears, Assemblymember Ivan Lafayette, Joseph William Ricevuto, state Senator John Sabini and Borough President Helen Marshall. The Jackson Heights John F. Kennedy Democratic Club, serving the 34th Assembly District, Part A, Jackson Heights for more than 40 years, recently honored City Councilmember Helen Sears and community activist Joseph William Ricevuto at the club’s annual dinner-dance at Bruno’s On the Boulevard in Jackson Heights.

Sears is widely known for her advocacy on behalf of senior citizens and for many years of service in the health field. She became a district leader in the 34th A.D. in 1979 and has represented the 25th Council District since 2001. She is the chief budget negotiator for the Queens Delegation.

Ricevuto began his campaign to beautify Jackson Heights on Mothers Day 1988, when he placed plantings in front of his beauty shop on 37th Avenue with a sign: “In Honor of All Mothers”. Other merchants and residents were inspired to follow his example, which eventually led to the founding of the Jackson Heights Garden Club, which has grown to 140 members. His efforts brought more than 70 trees and plantings that have been adopted by community members and business owners to 37th Avenue.

--Austin H. Armistead

Photo Austin H. Armitstead