October 3, 2019, was the monthly meeting of the Federated Blocks of Laurelton at the Theta Chi Chapter office. To begin the night, the board reviewed information given in the previous meeting last month as well as adding new strategies to make the Laurelton community safe and livable. Last month’s meeting focused thoroughly on examples of past murders and also the traffic issues in Laurelton on Merrick Boulevard specifically.
The President of the Federation, Robert Glover, made the night about the neighborhood and it’s residents. His primary focus was to address the resident’s concerns and suggest strategies that would refurbish the community as a whole. President Glover also spoke about his ability to have control of all of the Laurelton street signs before January 2020 which is significant because he would have the authority to add signs aiding the flow of traffic in the area. Smoother traffic does result from traffic signs because these new traffic signs would help people learn when to speed up, slow down, accelerate and come to a complete stop. In other words, traffic signs equal less accidents in the community. Moreover, the Federation organization is putting their best foot forward by attempting to keep the Laurelton community in pristine condition and safe at all times. The organization is also advocating for cleaner streets and reduced crime rates in our school districts. Less crimes would not only help the children but the parents would feel that their children are safe and sound throughout the school day.
At the meeting, there was a resident of Laurelton who spoke of a man named Ronald Hickman who was part of the Federation on 229th street in Laurelton. He had recently passed away and it was suggested that a street be named in memory of him due to the impact he had on the community. Naming streets in memory of people would be a great idea because it makes the residents feel appreciated for the work they feel goes unnoticed. Showing appreciation in that way is a great way to pay homage to people beyond their life. President Glover was also happy to announce that there was an approval of the “Welcome to Laurelton” sign on 121st Ave which is another advancement towards the beautification of this community.
1st Vice President, Ferrell Boncoeur spoke on the improvements in the community such as sanitation picks up garbage 6-7 days a weeks now which should decrease the amount of litter on the streets of Laurelton. A great improvement that is a slow process, but will gradually get better and better is the crime rate which is down by 4% from last month which was approved by captain chin.
Another great action taken in this lovely community is the approval that in 2022, all LIRR trains will become handicap accessible, which also brought up the fact that Queens to Long Island riders pay more than other LIRR riders pay which is an unusual thing.
The only downside in Laurelton is the growth of gangs and to be specific, it would be snow gang. Hopefully and soon enough these gangs will dial down and won’t be such a threat to this community.
The Community Coordinator, Dwight Johnson came to speak on how the people in the community say that there isn’t any change in Laurelton and he is highly tired of it. There are so many people in the neighborhood trying their best to make Laurelton have beauty, character, along with safety. There was a comment on National Grid and Con Edison regarding their way of either not giving a notice or giving one out on short notice. There should be at least a week notice rather than a paper the day before them doing work on anyone’s block.
At the meeting, the Queen’s representative from the Mayor’s Office, Kevin Morris spoke about his position on helping the community. He stated that any complaints about the community, you call him and he will do anything within his power to fix any issues brought to his attention. His number is 917-280-6060
Shauna, a representative from Alicia Hyndman’s office came and spoke about the upcoming events such as:
-Free Legal Services
Attorneys specializing in Foreclosure and Consumers Debt.
Every third Thursday. Sept. 19th, Oct. 24th, Nov. 21st, & Dec, 19th
Address: 232-06A Merrick Blvd, Springfield Gardens, NY, 11413
To make an appointment, contact 718-723-5412
From 4pm to 7pm
-Public Assistance Workshop
Get help applying for social & financial programs (Food Stamps, Medicaid, Medicare, etc.)
Every last Tuesday of the month. Upcoming date is October 29th
From 12pm to 3 pm
Address: 232-06A Merrick Blvd, springfield gardens, NY, 11413
-Early Voting Workshop
October 9th at 6pm
Address: 227-10 Merrick Blvd at the Evangel Temple
Vote 9 days in advance to Election Day.
-Free E-Waste Recycling
November 9th at 10am to 4 pm
Roy Wilkins Park 177-01 Baisely Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434
Ernest Flowers, a representative from Senator Leroy Comrie’s office come to the meeting and also gives brief information about upcoming events such as:
-Metrocard Mobile Sales Van & E-ZPASS “Pop-UP”
Learn about the benefits of having an E-ZPASS
Purchase, refill, or replace Metrocard
October 30th from 10 am to 2pm
Address: 113-43 Farmers Blvd St. Albans, NY
For more info: 718-765-6359
-Free Foreclosure Legal Assistance
Select Tuesday
2pm-5pm
Address: 113-43 Farmers Blvd St. Albans, NY
-The Power of Pink: Breast Cancer Awareness Forum
Cancer diagnosis & treatment options and many more topics
October 12 from 10am to 3pm
Address: 218-12 136th ave, Springfield Gardens, NY at the St. Mary Magdalene Church
For registry, call Senator Comrie’s office at 718-765-6359
-Citizen Preparedness Corps
Learn how to fully prepare for any natural disaster
Address: Church of St. Alban the Martyr 116-42 Farmers Boulevard
October 5 at 11am
-Save on Home Energy Costs
Receive personalized and direct assistance with home electric and heat bills.
October 8th at 10am to 2pm
Address: 85-70 148th street, Briarwood, NY 11435
