Cathie Black, Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s selection as the city’s next chancellor of public schools, was granted a waiver by New York State Education Commissioner David Steiner on November 29. Black, appointed by Bloomberg to replace Joel Klein who is resigning on December 31, does not have the required education and training to serve as a school superintendent under state law. […]
New York Cares Coat Drive Underway
Each winter, tens of thousands of New Yorkers are faced with the decision of whether to buy a winter coat or put food on the table. Since 1989 New York Cares has helped keep those in need warm by collecting more than one million coats for distribution to children and adults throughout the five boroughs. You can help, by donating […]
The Story of Chanukah
The story of Chanukah begins in the reign of Alexander the Great. Alexander conquered Syria, Egypt and Judea, but allowed the people under his control to continue observing their own religions and retain a certain degree of autonomy. Under this relatively benevolent rule, many Jews assimilated, adopting Hellenistic culture, including the language, customs and dress in much the same way […]
Community ‘Stars’ Dance To Support Boys And Girls Club
If you missed Dancing with the Stars of Our Community at St. Rafael’s, on November 20, now would be a good time to kick yourself. The unique fundraiser for the new Sunnyside/Woodside Boys and Girls Club was a splashy affair that transformed St. Rafael’s serviceable gymnasium, 48-25 37th St., Long Island City, into a nightclub with simple touches like glowing […]
Thanksgiving Food Drive And Liturgy Held At Holy Cross H.S.
On November 24, Holy Cross H.S., 26-20 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing, held its annual Thanksgiving Liturgy. In a video presentation produced by the HCTV students aired prior to the Thanksgiving Mass, students and staff members shared what they were most grateful for. “I am especially thankful this year that my whole family will be together for the holiday including my […]
Michael M. Smith, Former Media Mogul, Dies At 75
Michael M. Smith died on November 21 from complications due to prostate cancer at his home, the historic Lent-Riker-Smith Homestead, with his wife, Marion, by his side. Born July 22, 1935 in Paris, France of Russian descent (nee Matveyev) Smith was educated in the United States and an alumnus of the Millbrook School. He was founder of Larimi Communications, publishers […]
The Pulpit
Times and dates are subject to change. Please call event sponsors to confirm. All Nations Baptist: •Sunday, 2:30-5:30 p.m., for three months, free English classes which have already begun, registration required, limited space, 86-76 80th St., Woodhaven; 718.296.2025. **** All Saints’: •Tuesdays, 6 p.m. Join the Sunnyside Drum Corps Marching Band, boys/girls ages 7-17; band information. 43-12 46th St., Sunnyside; […]
Lawmakers Hold Fundraiser For Crime Victim
Assemblymember Michael DenDekker (D–Jackson Heights) and City Councilmembers Daniel Dromm (D–Jackson Heights) and Julissa Ferreras (D–Corona), saddened by the severe beating of a Jackson Heights deliveryman, got together recently and held a community fundraiser for him which brought in close to $3,000. Unfortunately, the last word they had was that the 28-year-old victim, Victor Mejia de los Santos, was in […]