Southeast Queens Scoop Blog - Streetwise Digital News: 2025

Wednesday, April 16, 2025

Earth Day Craft

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List. Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

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In Honor of our Home, we are Going to Make a Special Earth Day Craft!

Get The Scoop On Global Prostate Cancer Advocate Kevin Byrd's Induction into Who’s Who In America V2

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Global Prostate Cancer Advocate with
New York Roots Set to
Be Inducted into
Who’s Who in America

New York, New York — Global Prostate Cancer Advocate and award-winning actor Kevin Byrd, who proudly traces his roots to New York, is set to be inducted into the Marquis Who’s Who in America 77th Edition on May 1, 2025. Who’s Who in America is a prestigious publication by Marquis Who’s Who, a respected publisher of biographical directories that has chronicled notable individuals since 1898.

Byrd, who also serves as President of the Brown Byrd Foundation, Inc., is being honored for his lifelong commitment to prostate cancer awareness and advocacy. His induction into Who’s Who in America marks the culmination of decades of work dedicated to promoting early detection and screening for prostate cancer—work that began in his teenage years following his grandfather’s diagnosis.

Although Byrd’s impact is global, his efforts have had a lasting influence on local communities, including the Village of Hempstead, Nassau County, and Suffolk County. In partnership with the 100 Black Men organization, he helped bring a mobile prostate cancer screening unit to the Village of Hempstead, expanding access to critical health services.

Byrd has graced the cover of New Health Magazine, a Long Island-based publication by Gloria Gantt, on multiple occasions, highlighting his global advocacy through the Brown Byrd Foundation, Inc.

He has served as the Health Care Chairman for both the 100 Black Men and the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC), New York State’s largest African American Chamber of Commerce. His advocacy earned him a spotlight on Verizon Fios 1 News in a special segment titled "Heroes on Long Island."

Get The Scoop On The Weekly Jamaica & Southeast Queens Politics In Review

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Jamaica & Southeast Queens
Politics Weekly In Review 4/10/2025

Weekly Jamaica & Southeast Queens Politics In Review

April 10, 2025

Speaker Adrienne Adams Advocates for Participatory Budgeting

On March 28, 2025, NYC Council Speaker Adrienne Adams encouraged residents to participate in Vote Week for Participatory Budgeting, running from March 29 through April 6. This initiative allows New Yorkers aged 11 and up to vote on how to allocate $25 million in capital funding across 25 Council districts. New York City Council

Mayor Eric Adams Hosts Older Adult Town Hall in Queens

On April 9, 2025, Mayor Eric Adams held a town hall focused on issues affecting older adults. Reflecting on his personal connection to the area, Mayor Adams emphasized the administration's commitment to addressing the needs of senior residents. Welcome to NYC.gov | City of New York

Senator James Sanders Jr. Addresses Discrimination in Mortgage Industry

Senator James Sanders Jr. highlighted concerns about discrimination within New York's mortgage industry during a Senate Banks Committee hearing on March 11, 2025. The discussion aimed to identify and address discriminatory practices affecting prospective homeowners. NYSenate.gov

Senator Leroy Comrie's Community Initiatives

Senator Leroy Comrie continues to focus on community engagement and legislative efforts within the 14th Senate District. Residents are encouraged to visit his official Senate page for updates on initiatives and upcoming events. NYSenate.gov

Council Member Dr. Nantasha Williams Enhances Community Spaces

Council Member Dr. Nantasha Williams has been active in improving local infrastructure. Notably, she presented a $2.8 million check for resilience upgrades to the Cambria Heights Library on September 19, 2023, and announced the completion of a beautification project along Jamaica Avenue on August 31, 2023. New York City Council

For more detailed information and further updates, please refer to the official press releases linked above.

Black Maternal Health Week

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Black Maternal Health Week

Soulful Sunday: A Palm Sunday Gospel Jam Session

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Soulful Sunday:
A Palm Sunday Gospel Jam Session

Click Here For More Info

Join us for Soulful Sunday, an evening of music, love, and worship like no other! This Palm Sunday, come experience a soul-stirring open mic and karaoke night featuring old-school gospel favorites in a space where all are welcome—no judgment, just love.

This event is for those who miss the power of worship but may not feel comfortable in traditional church settings. Whether you want to sing your heart out, play an instrument, or just soak in the atmosphere, Soulful Sunday is your chance to feel God's love and presence in a new way.

🎤 Open Mic & Karaoke – Share your gift or join in the classics
🎶 Live Music & Jam Session – Feel the rhythm, lift your spirit
🍹 Bar & Vendors – Good vibes, great company, and a relaxed setting

Come as you are, bring your voice, your heart, and your spirit. Let’s create a night of worship, connection, and community together!

📅 Date: April 13th 2024
📍 Location: HALL OF FAME STUDIOS, 89-37 164TH ST, JAMAICA, NY
🎟 RSVP Now – Limited Spots Available!

Get The Scoop On The BlaQue Community Cares: Buy Build *Bond - Black Business & Community Wealth Expo

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BlaQue Resource Network Announces
*Buy *Build *Bond
Black Business &
Community Wealth Expo
on June 21, 2025

Queens, NY — The BlaQue Resource Network (BRN), a leading community organization dedicated to empowering Black residents in Queens, is proud to present the "Buy Build Bond: Black Business & Community Wealth Expo." This landmark event is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Resorts World New York City in Queens, NY.Eventbrite

The "Buy Build Bond" Expo aims to foster economic empowerment by connecting Black-owned businesses with the community, promoting entrepreneurship, and facilitating wealth-building strategies. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with local entrepreneurs, participate in workshops, and access resources designed to support business growth and financial literacy.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Location: Resorts World New York City, Queens, NY Eventbrite
Time: 10am - 5pm

Prom Dress Giveaway Event

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Say yes to the dress! Join us for a week of fun and free dress shopping at Cambria Heights Teen Center. We will have a wide assortment of prom dresses, suiting, shoes, handbags, and jewelry available for teens attending prom.

Get The Scoop On The Exclusive Interview With Dr. Alexis Donald On Her New Book Mommy I want To Be A Doctor

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The Exclusive Interview With
Dr. Alexis Donald On Her
New Book
"Mommy I want To Be A Doctor"

Dr. Alexis Donald is on a mission with insightful alacrity to inspire young girls to pursue the medical profession as doctors. Dr. AD, as we affectionately call her at the Black News Scoop, looks to add more young women into the medical profession to help increase better health outcomes in our communities.

As many of us probably could imagine, becoming a physician isn't easy and not for the faint of heart. However, Dr. Donald explains and has authored a book for young girls on how to navigate successfully their ambitious careers to become medical doctors.

In this exclusive interview for Women's History and Empowerment Month, Dr. Donald shares her secrets with Black News Scoop Publisher Kamau Austin (www.BlackNewsScoop.com) on how to steer your daughter in the right direction with her New Book "Mommy I Want To Be A Doctor!" See my Exclusive and Provocative interview with her below...

Paint Night

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Come join us for a fun and creative evening at Growing Up Green II Middle School in Jamaica! Let your inner artist shine as you sip on drinks and paint away.

Manga & Comic Arts For Teens With Ivan Velez

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Manga & Comic Arts For Teens With Ivan Velez

Join cartoonist, mangaka and writer Ivan Velez in this awesome manga workshop! Focusing on Japanese and American style comics, learn the history of this very popular art form and make connections to your own experiences and culture.

Get The Scoop On How 100 Black Men of Eastern New York Inc., Is Expanding Their Deep Roots On Long Island

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100 Black Men of Eastern New York Inc.

Builds its Deep Roots On Long Island As It Expands Its Service Territory To Eastern New York.

New York, New York - The first chapter of 100 Black Men of America, Inc. was established in New York City in 1963 and was named the One Hundred Black Men of New York, Inc. Although it was established in New York City, it had deep Roots on Long Island as many of the men in the New York City Chapter lived on Long Island and had the desire to establish a chapter on Long Island. A conversation was held with the NYC Chapter and shortly thereafter in 1974 a chapter was formed in Hempstead, Long Island.

The 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. is known throughout Nassau and Suffolk County. The founding president was William Urquhart, Jr., a resident of the Village of Hempstead. Mr. William Urquhart, Jr. was a local real estate broker and the first black person to serve on the Hempstead School Board.

100 Black Men Eastern New York, Inc. Group photo – Stakeholder Development and Membership Meeting in Nassau County.

Today new chapter is known as the 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. As it builds on its deep roots on Long Island and expands its service territory into Eastern New York City, it will continue to serve the community and be affectionately known as “The Organization That Makes A Difference.”

The “100”as it is known on Long Island for short, advocates for excellence in 4 main areas which are Mentoring, Education, Health and Wellness and Economic Empowerment. Its goal is to bring together a variety of men from diverse backgrounds who are committed to the community and have exemplified excellence in their prospective spheres of influence, then unite them to impact our community in a positive manner.

As Long Island seeks to develop its infrastructure; it must also develop its human capital, intellectual capital, and social capital, and cultural capital. Organizations such as this chapter of the 100 Black Men, will be crucial to developing and nurturing the next generation of leaders on Long Island.

The men who formed the initial chapter on Long Island in 1974 were well off financially, but thought perhaps if they came together under an organization, under a structure, they would be able to make a significant difference in the community. By 1986 initial meetings with several chapters that had been formed across America had been convened to discuss and lay out a plan to form a national body.

On October 2, 1986, representatives from 100 Black Men Chapters converged in Washington, DC, for a final meeting to establish a national organization. Today that body is called 100 Black Men of America, Inc.

Some of the members of the first chapters included businessmen and industry leaders such as David Dinkins, Robert Mangum, Dr. William Hayling, Nathaniel Goldston III, Livingston Wingate, Andrew Hatcher, and Jackie Robinson.

Queens College & University

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Queens College & University

Customized Training Webinar

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Customized Training Webinar

The Customized Training Program is a competitive, reimbursable training grant available to New York City based businesses that are:

for-profit
in operation for at least one year
able to pay for training upfront

This grant offers financial support to make training your staff more affordable. The right training can help your bottom line, reduce employee turnover, improve morale, promote an efficient and productive workforce, and increase your competitiveness in the marketplace.

You will identify the challenges your business is currently facing and select the trainings that address these challenges. You will get reimbursed up to 60% of the total training costs and receive a trainee completion credit for every trainee that completes training.

Program Overview

Grants range from $30,000-$400,000
Businesses must train at least 10 employees. *Businesses with less than 10 employees can apply jointly as a consortium application to meet the trainee requirement.
Businesses pay for training costs upfront and get reimbursed on a quarterly basis
Employees can take different trainings
Employees have one year to complete training
Upon completion of training, businesses must provide wage increases to trainees

The Miracle of Tonya Pinkins

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The Miracle of Tonya Pinkins

One and all are welcome to a premiere film screening of The Miracle of Tonya Pinkins. Reception at 7:00 pm. Film screening at 7:30 pm.

Get The Scoop On Clay Figurines: A Craft Workshop For Adults

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Clay Figurines: A
Craft Workshop For Adults

Create beautiful clay figurines that you can paint at home on your own! These figurines can be used as gifts, ornaments, or home decoration. Materials will be provided for up to 20 people. Call the library or come in person to register. This program is funded by New York State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr.

“Spring Into Art!” With Juan Ortega

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Join us for this fun-filled Spring Paint Workshop with Juan Ortega. Discover new painting techniques and explore vibrant colors. Don’t miss out – bring a friend and leave with your own unique artwork!

Culture Connection: Me And Mr. Jones

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QPL’s Culture Connection is delighted to host this conversation with Suzi Ronson and May Pang in honor of Women’s History Month!

Let Your Light Shine GAC Girls Brunch

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Join us on Saturday, March 29, at 11:00 AM for a special EmpowHER Brunch as we close out Women’s History Month with fellowship, fun, and the power of sisterhood. Enjoy a delicious brunch and an engaging conversation with Rev. Aneesha Jacko, who will inspire you to embrace your light and walk boldly in your purpose.

Earth Day 2025

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Students, it’s time to showcase your creativity for a greener future! Senator Leroy Comrie invites you to submit an essay, poem, or artwork for the Earth Day 2025 Online Showcase with the theme “Our Power, Our Planet.”

Eric Adams Has Done An Admirable Job Against The Odds: OP-ed By Rev. Conrad Tillard

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Eric Adams Has Done an
Admirable Job Against The Odds

Op-ed by Rev. Conrad Bennette Tillard

Eric Adams has done an admirable job, against the odds. There was never anything to the case.

This case came about because he was enthusiastic in receiving migrants in New York City (he went to the busses to receive them) but he watched his city budget destroyed, with no help from the federal government. He then challenged the Biden administration to come up with a coherent border policy so that cities would not break their budgets, (which are designed to provide services for their residents) trying to handle what the federal government has the obligation of solving. For this he was told to be quiet and be a good Democrat.

Fighting for New Yorkers he took this hit. We all watched what was presented, there was no compelling evidence, no smoking guns! Now the case has been dropped.

Eric Adams is only the second Black mayor in the 400 year history of New York City. A working class brother who has climbed up from poverty in Brownsville and South Jamaica Queens, distinguished himself as a warrior against police brutality while he was on the police force, standing with many of us activists fighting Giuliani and the others and he had to go to work the next day at the NYPD. I didn't, Rev. Sharpton didn't, Alton Maddox didn't, Rev Daughtry and Dr. Butts didn't, Mother Viola Plumber didn't but Eric did. He stood like a solid oak tree with the NYC activist community during the intense battles of the 80s, 90s and early 2000s.

4th Degree Black Belt Sensei Jessica Corbin Works To Empower Parents And Strengthen Children

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4th Degree Black Belt Sensei Jessica Corbin Empowers Parents And Strengthens Children

About Sensei Jessica Corbin: 4^th Degree Black Belt and Volunteer Firefighter

Training in traditional martial arts at Okinawa Karate Kobudo Kai (OKKK) in Elmont since the age of 11, Sensei Jessica Corbin has dedicated 24 years to mastering her craft. She earned her black belt at just 16, a testament to her dedication, discipline, and passion for the art.

Growing up in Roosevelt, she found inspiration in her sister, a devoted public servant and community supporter. This led her to give back to her community as a volunteer at the Roosevelt Fire Department.

As a woman in martial arts, Sensei Jessica Corbin has gained a deep understanding of both her strengths and weaknesses, using this knowledge to build confidence and resilience. She has used this drive to inspire students, working as a Head Instructor at OKKK.

Teaching has become one of her greatest joys, as she takes pride in witnessing her students' transformation and growth. Serving as a role model, she strives to empower others, instilling in them the same discipline and determination that have shaped her journey.

Get The Scoop On How NY State's Largest African American Chamber Of Commerce Celebrated Black History Month

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New York State’s largest Chamber LIAACC Host Black History Program in Hempstead

New York, New York – New York State’s largest Chamber LIAACC Host Black History Program in the Village of Hempstead. On February 27th, 2025 the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC) hosted its 2025 Black History Month Program at the Joysetta Pearse and Julius Pearse African American Museum of Nassau County in Hempstead.

This year’s Black History Month Program was part of the chamber’s 15th year anniversary celebration; and all year the chamber celebrating the year with old and new signature programs of the chamber.

Rosa Yardon provided a new twist to LIAACC’s Black History Month Program by providing a “Trivia Game – titled “What Your Best Guess”

The program included a Supplier Diversity Presentation by Akim Jones, a fireside chat with small business owners and business leaders in the community. Nadia Diaz, Chase 401K Representative provided information Everyday 401K Retirement Options for your Employees and Amy Flores, Chase Bank Community Manager introduced the attendees to Coaching for Impact Chase for Business Program.

This groundbreaking conversation was led by the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc.’s Vice President Rose Ward. Rose Ward is the CEO of NFocus Management Group, LLC

The panelist on the fireside chat included Phil Andrews, President of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc./President, 100 Black Men of Eastern New York, Inc. *2019 NY Metro District Office of the United States Small Business Administration for 14 counties Downstate, New York and Surrounding Areas.

Anthony Quinones, is the owner of Interim CFOs an outsourced accounting agency that provides financial infrastructure for emerging startups, creatives and nonprofits so they can devote their full energy to the dream. They do your numbers, and you do your dream.

Jonathan Ortiz, Owner of Creative Focus Designs a professional photography studio located in Nassau County. Mr. Ortiz is a Certified Professional Photographer, Member of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc., and Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. He is also a MWBE Certified Business by Nassau County.

Jazz Musical Entertainment was provided by Everton Bailey & the ISOP Youth Ensemble”

Leroy Comrie Sponsors A Bus Trip To Non-Profit Advocacy Day In Albany NY

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State Senator Invites You To
Non-profit Advocacy Day

The New York State Black Legislative Task Force will be hosting a Non-Profit Advocacy Day on Monday, March 17th from 10am - 2pm in Albany. I am partnering with my colleagues from Southeastern Queens to provide FREE bus transportation. Seats are limited so please RSVP asap.

We encourage community-based organizations from within SD14 to participate. Attached, you will find the event flyer and below you can see the planned activities. You are your own best advocates, please take the opportunity to come up and share with my legislative colleagues and I, how we can best serve you.

The New York State Black Legislative Task Force (NYSBLT), in partnership with Elmcor, is proud to host our first Advocacy Day in Albany—as it provides a pivotal opportunity for community-based organizations to engage with legislators and advocate for funding that supports socially disadvantaged groups. This event provides organizations with a platform to amplify their priorities, address critical community needs, and forge strategic relationships that drive meaningful change. The day will feature a press conference, lobbying efforts, a Grants Information Workshop, and lunch.

During Advocacy Day, we will:

Advocate for $50 million in the budget to be allocated to fiscal conduits, who will distribute these funds to small and community-based nonprofits across New York State to provide essential services to socially disadvantaged communities.
Explore opportunities for capacity building to help non-profits grow and sustain their work.
Highlight the needs of underserved populations and the essential services non-profits provide to these communities.
Rally support for policies that foster an environment where all non-profits can thrive and fulfill their missions.

To maximize the impact of Advocacy Day, we encourage participating organizations to visit legislative offices and deliver a one-pager that outlines your organization’s work, its impact, and the critical community needs it addresses.

If you have any questions about the Advocacy Day, please feel free to reach out to my Albany office at 518-455-2701.

Yours in Service,

Leroy Comrie
New York State Senator
District 14 | Queens

Know You Immigrant Rights Webinar

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Know Your Rights As Immigrants

When: Thursday, March 13th, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Where: Virtual (Zoom link will be sent by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 12th)

This webinar will focus on explaining how New Yorkers can protect themselves and their communities from the overreach of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Black, Latino, and AAPI-based immigration service organizations will join the discussion to share resources, along with experts and lawyers who will provide guidance and answer any questions. Please RSVP below to receive the Zoom link.

For the "Please enter the name of the elected official that referred you to this webinar." please enter Caucus/Comrie

RSVP HERE: https://forms.gle/AJv6jwvWNUvRNyTH7

She Exist Magazine Covers The First Ladies CSW-69 Reception

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She Exist Magazine Covers The

First Ladies CSW-69 Reception

The First Ladies CSW-69 Reception is a prestigious gathering of influential women leaders, policymakers, and global changemakers, convened in celebration of International Women’s Day during the 69th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW-69).

Hosted by AWHPI Global Foundation and Waterlight Initiative, this event is dedicated to advancing gender equality, fostering cross-sector collaborations, and amplifying the role of women in leadership, governance, and global development.

This exclusive reception will bring together First Ladies, UN representatives, business executives, and high-profile advocates to engage in insightful discussions on the progress and challenges of women’s empowerment worldwide. The event will feature keynote speeches, panel discussions, award recognitions, and cultural showcases, celebrating the achievements of women across different sectors.

Through a dynamic and interactive program, the First Ladies CSW-69 Reception will highlight strategies for breaking barriers in leadership, policy influence, and sustainable development while encouraging actionable commitments to further gender equality initiatives.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with esteemed dignitaries, share best practices, and build lasting partnerships that contribute to a more inclusive and equitable future for women and girls worldwide.

Event Details:

March 13th and 14th, New York, NY

Click on the following link to learn more:

FIRST LADIES CSW-69 HIGH-LEVEL BILATERAL RECEPTION HONORS

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