Woodhaven Residents Fight Street Changes, But Will They Succeed?

Woodhaven residents are pushing back against a pair of street changes that will be voted upon Tuesday by Community Board 9 (at the Punjabi Palace 91-52 Lefferts Boulevard in Richmond Hill). The meeting starts at 7:45. Although it appears, at this late hour, that the proposed changes may already have the votes to pass, our only hope is to make a very reasonable request. Residents have sent e-mails to the Community Board, asking them to postpone the vote until meetings can be held that look more closely at these plans and, possibly, explore alternatives.

Click here for maps, pictures, video.

There is still time to send a polite e-mail to Community Board 9 at communitybd9@nyc.rr.com or by calling (718) 286-2686. You can also call your City Council representative — either Eric Ulrich (718-738-1083) or Elizabeth Crowley (718-366-3900) — and make your feelings known. Every single e-mail or phone call adds weight to the scale that we need to tip in our favor.

Here is a sample of some of the e-mails that have been sent –

This change in traffic flow would make it very inconvenient to get on to the west side of 89th. Ave. & Woodhaven Blvd. not mention the problem it would cause the people on the east side of 89th Ave. to get onto the Blvd. To get to my home coming North using Woodhaven Blvd, You would have to make a “U-Turn at Jamaica Ave. and come back South using the service road. Then making a right onto 89th Ave.!

Having only one access to a main road is ridiculous. At least leaving it as is, gives a usable traffic flow for the community to get around. We disagree with your proposal and are asking for a postponement; and the proper community hearings be held on the subject!

* * * * * * * * * *

I suggest that the changes to these streets be tabled by community board 9 as they severely impact me and my family in regard to emergency services ,shopping and entrance and egress in the neighborhood. I am disabled and need access for services via these streets and regard the change to 84th st specifically as a jeapardy to my health safety and well being.

It was of severe impact to me the change made to 87th st wherein it became one way to avoid the home owners having their car mirrors sheared off for one measely block and now its proposed to change the most expedent way to get into Woodhaven from Liberty Ave which is ridiculous and silly. I have not received any impact statement or survey to support these changes and resent them.

* * * * * * * * * *

I live in Woodhaven and oppose the proposed changes to the traffic patterns on 84th Street and 89th Avenue. Both would cause inconvenience and force more traffic to the alternative routes.

* * * * * * * * * *

The purpose of this e-mail is to respectfully request that the proposed changes to traffic directions in Woodhaven and Ozone Park be delayed until the effected communities can be surveyed and be allowed give input. The fact that no one was alerted to these proposed changes and no Impact Study has been made available is of great concern. Additionally, since there is a school (St. Elizabeth) with several hundred children in attendance on one of the effected streets, I would think that a public hearing would be necessary. Thank you for your consideration to this matter.

* * * * * * * * * *

Please postpone any street changes you are planning to vote on until the residents of Woodhaven have a chance to know more about the changes and how they will effect traffic in and out Woodhaven.

* * * * * * * * * *

I am writing regarding the proposed street changes to 89th Avenue and 84th Street. As it stands right now, there are only a limited number of access streets that allow the residents to cross Atlantic Avenue and cross Woodhaven Boulevard for us to travel around the community. To reverse 84th Street to be in opposing directions on either side of Atlantic makes no sense at all and will create a major headache for the residents of Woodhaven. Expecting everyone to travel all the way to either end of town just to cross from one side of the Avenue to the other will create major traffic issues, and is also a huge waste of energy, with absolutely no appreciable benefit. It is imperative that the people of this community continue to have viable travel routes around the area. Likewise, switching 89th Avenue will leave only 91st Street as an alternative to cross Woodhaven Blvd, short of using Atlantic Avenue, Jamaica Avenue or Park Lane….all of which already have too much traffic trying to cross over. While the issue of cars turning off Woodhaven Blvd on to 89th Avenue when other cars are waiting to cross is an understandable concern, that issue is better addressed by limiting parking on that corner, to create the necessary room. Reversing the direction in a manner opposite to that on the other side of the boulevard, and making the street one way, again will wreak havoc with the ability of residents to navigate around their own neighborhood. I urge you to re-consider these plans and do a more complete investigation of the impact on the area and the thoughts of those who live here before making any such decision.

* * * * * * * * * *

There is still time — but not much. Woodhaven needs your help. Please take advantage of tomorrow (Monday) to send a polite e-mail to Community Board 9 at communitybd9@nyc.rr.com or calling (718) 286-2686. And don’t forget to call your City Council representative — either Eric Ulrich (718-738-1083) or Elizabeth Crowley (718-366-3900) — and ask them to postpone the vote.

Fighting For Woodhaven – Saturday, September 17th

The residents of Woodhaven will gather for their monthly Town Hall meeting on Saturday, September 17th at 1 PM. The meeting will be held at 78-15 Jamaica Avenue (the Volunteer Ambulance Corps).

** We’ll be planning for our next Graffiti Clean Up — we’re looking to do some weekday — late afternoon / early evening walkabouts, painting over mailboxes, light poles, etc. A great way to make new friends and get some exercise at the same time. Interested? We need volunteers!

** We’ll also have reports from our elected officials.

** * Our 40th Anniversary Celebration Fundraiser is one week from today — Friday, September 23rd at Joe Abbraciamento — and we’ve got a great time planned for those who attend. Click here to read about it.  You can still order tickets online by clicking here.  And many thanks to all who have supported the WRBA through purchasing tickets or ads, those who have made donations, and those who have signed up and paid dues as members — every dollar goes back into Woodhaven.

Note:  If you purchased a ticket, you can pick it up at tomorrow’s meeting — otherwise, it will be at the door of Abbraciamento.  E-mail us, or call us, if you have any questions.

* We’ll be talking about all of this — and more — on our weekly web-based radio show TONIGHT.  Click here Friday Night at 10 PM to listen to the show LIVE.  Dial (646) 378-1612 to share your thoughts with us.

* Tomorrow we will be coming up with a list of issues we need addressed in Woodhaven – your input is welcome. Got an issue you want to see addressed? It won’t get addressed if all you do is sit home and complain about it. Come down and get involved. Fight for your investment. Fight for a better community.

Woman Attacked in Forest Park

On September 7, 2011 at approximately 10:00 a.m. in the confines of Forest Park in the 102 Precinct a woman was approached and Assaulted by a:
-Male white
-Approx. 20 to 30 years of age
-Approx. 6 foot tall
-Wearing a Blue hat, Blue Jacket, and Khaki pants.

The woman is currently with the Queens Special Victims Squad and has sustained no injuries. If any information in regards to this incident please contact the 102 Precinct Community Affairs Office @ 718-805-3215.

Advertise Your Business And Help Woodhaven

Are you looking for a way to advertise your business and help your community at the same time? The Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association is celebrating their 40th Anniversary on September 23rd at a fundraiser at Joe Abbraciamento. The WRBA is an all-volunteer group of residents to advocate on behalf of Woodhaven — they have fought against the closure of the local firehouse, they have fought against closing the local library — they have walked the streets taking down unsightly signs and they have dragged paint cans through the neighborhood painting over graffiti.

The Annual Journal is a collector’s item — and at a small cost, the businesses who sponsor the WRBA by taking out an ad are showing the community that they care. The Journal is distributed to all who attend, community and civic leaders, as well as our elected officials. The entire journal will also be placed online for added visibility (and blasted out to all of our members & friends on our E-mail list, on Facebook, and on Twitter). Each sponsor will also be included in a commemorative video which will be posted online after the event.

Below is an example of last year’s cover alongside some partial page advertisements — the size of a business card — which go for $50.

And here is an example of a Full Page Color Ad, which goes for $100. You can also get a 1/2 page Color Ad ($75) or 1/2 page Black and White ($65).

Again, it’s a way to reach potential clients and help the community at the same time — it’s a win-win! You can contact us at info@woodhaven-nyc.org for more information or leave a message at 718-296-3735. You can pay for your ads by check or you can also now pay online by clicking here. Ads need to be purchased by Tuesday, September 13th.

Interested in attending the fundraiser? Click here to purchase tickets — sit down and enjoy a 4 course meal with the residents. Read more about it here.

The WRHVAC To Be Honored Friday, September 23rd

The Woodhaven – Richmond Hill Volunteer Ambulance Corp, now in its’ 46th year of operation, will be honored by the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association at its’ annual dinner on Friday, September 23rd, which will be held at Joe Abbraciamento on Woodhaven Boulevard.  The WRHVAC will be inducted into the Woodhaven Hall of Fame — and accepting on behalf of the WRHVAC will be Kathy Sexton-Dalby and Kelly Sexton — along with their mom Patricia Sexton –

Though there were many rough patches over the years, the volunteers of the WRHVAC have always somehow managed to survive — a fire, a roof collapse, a flood — the WRHVAC survived them all to provide care for their community and a rich training ground for young caregivers.  They offer First Aid classes, EMT classes — that they have managed to keep an all-volunteer organization up and running these many decades is a remarkable accomplishment.

They also serve as role models to a younger generation of residents of Woodhaven.  And for that, and everything else that they do, the Woodhaven – Richmond Hill Volunteer Ambulance Corp will be honored, Friday September 23rd at Joe Abbraciamento.  The doors open at 7:00 PM and there will be a 4 course meal (including beer and wine) — a door prize, raffles, a live DJ and dancing.  Tickets are $65 each and can be ordered by calling 718-296-3735 (if no one answers, leave a message)  — or you can order tickets online and pay by credit card by clicking here.

We chope you’ll consider coming out to honor the WRHVAC and to also support the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association, which you can read more about here.

 

Things are Happening at Emanuel in Woodhaven, NY

The good folks over at Emanuel have passed along news of some upcoming events you should be aware:

First, Emanuel will open its doors for quiet personal prayer and meditation at 8:30 on the morning of Sunday, September 11. There will be a special commemorative worship service at 10:00. All are welcome. Emanuel is located on Woodhaven Blvd and 91st Avenue.

Next, Emanuel will be holding their Fall Dinner & Show on Saturday, September 24th at 5:30 PM.  The Dinner Menu (prepared by the famous and talented Chef Eric) will consist of Chicken Parmigiana with Spaghetti, a Salad with your choice of dressing, Italian Bread, Dessert, Coffee, Tea, & Iced Tea.  We’ve been to this dinner before and it’s a treat.  There will also be entertainment, provided by Charles Locasto and his lovely back up singers.  The Theme of this dinner is “Love Is In The Air” — try to think of all the songs you know that have the word “Love” in the title — see if Charles includes them in his repertoire!  Tickets are only $15 for Adults, $7.50 for Children 12 and under.

To reserve seats, call Emanuel on Tuesday or Wednesday between 10 AM and 2 PM — 718-849-1153 – ask for Pam!

Please also save the date for Emanuel’s Annual Church Fair, November 12th from 10 AM to 8 PM.  There will be a large number of vendors with a variety of items for sale, a Granny’s Attic, a Book-Nook, and a Bakery with many home-baked items to be enjoyed.  And, per custom, there will be Emanuel’s GIANT AUCTION TABLE.  This year, you can get bagels and coffee and tea in the morning — and hot dogs and other hot and cold snacks in the afternoon — it’s a great way to spend the day.

And finally, Emanuel will once again hold a “Bless The Pets” ceremony on their front steps — we’ve been to the last two ceremonies

Bring your furry friends — it’s a fun morning and you’ll get to meet fellow pet lovers.  And even if you don’t have a pet, come down and see all the cute little fuzzies — the date still to be announced.  Either call Emanuel or watch this space!

To review:

Sunday 09/11/11 – Prayer and meditation at 8:30. Special commemorative worship service at 10:00. All are welcome.

Saturday 09/24/11 – Fall Dinner & Show at 5:30 PM

Saturday 11/12/11 – Emanuel’s Annual Church Fair, 10 AM to 8 PM.

Bless The Pets – TBA

 

How Dumb Is That?

One of our Block Captains reported something unbelievable.  In the wake of Hurricane Irene, residents of 92nd Street, just off 89th Avenue, notice one of the large trees was leaning a bit — and closer inspection revealed that it was coming out of the ground.  Fair enough, we’ve seen a lot of that the past few days.  311 was called and an arborist from the Parks Department arrived to inspect the tree.

After a few minutes inspection he asked the local residents who had done the sidewalk.  The answer was “the city” — this was one of the blocks that had construction done due to water mains — many sidewalks in Woodhaven had been torn up and replaced.  It turns out the guys doing the sidewalk had cut the roots of the tree.

How Dumb Is That?

On top of that, the arborist pointed out that electrical wires had been run through limbs of the tree — here’s one angle of the tree (taken from Google’s street view):

It’s kinda hard to see, but it does look like the wires go in between the limbs — which means when this tree comes down it’s a guarantee that the wires are gonna come down.  How Dumb Is That?

Here’s another angle — we’ll try and get some better pictures later this morning –

As there has been many sidewalks torn up and replaced by the city in Woodhaven — and there are a ton of giant, old trees — the WRBA calls on the city to have the Parks Department inspect every tree on each sidewalk that was replaced in Woodhaven — and they should also check the street wiring, as well.

 

Damage Report for Woodhaven – Hurricane Irene

Here is a final report for the weekend — a listing of the damage caused by Hurricane Irene.  This information was collected by our Block Captains.  If you have any damage on your block that you do not see on this list, it is because your block doesn’t have a Block Captain.

We have been in contact with our elected officials and they are working to resolve all the problems on this list.

Power Outages:

(1)  Luckily we only know of one power outage — live wires in the backyard of a house on Eldert Lane.  A number of houses are without power.

Downed Trees / Dangerous Conditions / Blocked Street – Unresolved as of 5:30 PM – Listed West to East

(2)  81st St between 91st Ave and Atlantic Ave. – A fallen tree is blocking the street.  Seems to have missed the parked cars.  Cordoned off by police tape.

(3)  84th St North of 91st Avenue – telephone pole ready to topple - Click Here For Picture - Street is blocked off and FDNY was on scene at 5:30 PM.

(4)  87th Street North of Atlantic – Downed tree blocking street - Click Here for Picture  – this was still blocking the street as of 5:30 PM

(5)  89th street between 88th and 89th Avenue – Downed Tree.  Click Here for Picture - this was still blocking the street as of 5:30 PM

(6)  92-06 Woodhaven Boulevard (near the bridge that crosses Atlantic) – Sidewalk blocked – dangerous condition as the branches force pedestians to walk out onto the Boulevard.  Click Here for Picture - this was still blocking the sidewalk as of 5:30 PM

(7)  87-20 94th Street – Large Tree leaning against house – dangerous condition.   Click Here for Picture - this was still blocking the sidewalk as of 5:30 PM

(8)  90th Street between 89th and 90th Avenue.  Downed Tree.  This was still blocking the street as of 5:30 PM

Downed Trees / Dangerous Conditions / Blocked Street – Seems OK for Now - Listed West to East

The following incidents of damage appear to be under control for now.  This does not mean they do not require further action.  It just means they do not require immediate action.

(9)  91-40 80th St between 91st Ave and Atlantic Ave – A large broken tree branch is hanging in the tree in front of 91-40.

(10)  88th Ave between 80th St and 85th St. - Click Here For Picture - it was small enough that residents were able to clear a path for vehicles.

(11)  86th st between 91st and Atlantic – A large tree fell and damaged 2 houses and looks like it took down some wires.  Sidewalk is cordoned off.

(12)  On Woodhaven Boulevard, a tree destroyed a garage and a vehicle.  The address of the house is actually 87-64 94th Street.  We saw emergency vehicles there and they secured the scene.

(13)  95th St between Jamaica Ave and 89th Avenue - Click Here For Picture - the residents cleared the street and chopped up the tree themselves.

(14)  83-25 98th Street – Downed tree blocking street, but there’s enough room for a car to get by.  311 Report Number –   # C1-1-678945715

Woodhaven Braces for Irene

As you’ve no doubt heard, Hurricane Irene is rapidly approaching our area — recent reports suggest that New York City will begin to experience tropical storm or hurricane conditions starting late Saturday Night and continuing all day Sunday, with a potential of 6 to 12 inches of rain and extremely high winds (estimated at 70+ mph).  Woodhaven is currently listed as a Zone C, which states that we are in danger of potential flooding from a Category 3-4  hurricane.  Under these conditions, we could also be at risk of losing electrical power.   Click here to view a map of Hurricane Zones as well as Evacuation Centers.

This is important because you will hear alerts that the Mayor has ordered a mandatory evacuation of all “Zone A” areas as well as the “Zone B” portion of the Rockaway Peninsula.   Woodhaven has NOT been ordered to evacuate.

Governor Cuomo has declared a state of emergency and NYC has already announced plans for shutting down the ENTIRE transit system effective Noon tomorrow.

We will be on the air LIVE TONIGHT AT 10 PM – click here at 10 PM to listen.  We will discuss the latest news about Irene and hurricane precautions.  During the show you can call in and share your opinions — 646-378-1612.

Be Prepared

Needless to say, this all sounds scary — but it’s best to prepare for the worst.  Attention to all our Block Captains, we will be reaching out to you for a report late Sunday, early Monday — you will be getting a follow-up e-mail before the storm hits.  Click here to see a map of all the blocks that have a captain — if your block does not have a Block Captain, please consider signing up.  It’s a way for us to be organized — to quickly gather information about conditions in our community in the event of an emergency (flooding, downed trees, power outages).  E-mail us at info@woodhaven-nyc.org or call 718-296-3735 if interested in signing up, or if you have questions.

Resources

Here are a few sites you may finds useful:

The Latest Weather for Woodhaven – Click here to see the latest forecast, or click here for a Hurricane Irene tracker.

A Guide to Preparing for an Emergency in NYC - This useful guide provides you with some handy checklists of things to think about in advance.  Are you prepared?

NYC Severe Weather Updates – Click here for the latest updates on Irene from NYC.

Tips and Things to Think About

• Follow all official instructions for Evacuation and Emergency warnings to stay off the road.  Get out today and get your supplies.  Do not take warnings of dangerous conditions lightly.
• Gas up your vehicles ahead of time.  Gas stations may close early – head out today and fill up your tank.
• Make sure any loose items on your porch or in your backyard are secured.  In a hurricane, these items can become lethal objects.
• Have Cash on hand.  If there’s a power outage, credit cards will not be accepted in most locations.
• Have batteries and flashlights on hand.  Make sure they work.  Try not to use candles.  The last thing you need is a fire!
• Make sure you have all of your critical medication on hand, in the house, before Irene hits.
• Have a 3-day non-perishable food supply on hand.  Have 1 gal water per person per day/plan for 3 day minimum.
• Have personal documents on hand in dry bag or sealed plastic bag.
• Have “old electronic” radio on hand (battery or crank).
• If you have elderly neighbors, please check in on them today and make sure they are okay and that they have your number (or the number of someone they can call for help).
• Prepare for a few days indoors.  Do not head outdoors during the storm.

Con Edison’s Safety Advice

ConEdison will be on high-alert throughout the storm. Customers can report power interruptions or service problems at www.conEd.com or at 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633).  As a reminder:

• If you see downed electrical wires, do not go near them. Treat all downed wires as if they are live. Be mindful that downed wires can be hidden from view by tree limbs, leaves or water.
• Report all downed wires to Con Edison and your local police department immediately. If a power line falls on your car while you’re in it, stay inside the vehicle and wait for emergency personnel.
• If your power goes out, turn off all lights and appliances to prevent overloaded circuits when power is restored.
• Check to make sure your flashlights and any battery-operated radios are in working order.  Also, make sure you have a supply of extra batteries. Weather updates and news on power outages can be heard on most local radio and television stations.
• In the event that you lose electricity, limit how much you open your freezer or refrigerator.  Most fully loaded freezers will keep food frozen for approximately 36 to 48 hours; half-full freezers will keep food frozen for approximately 24 hours.

Messages From Our Elected Officials To Woodhaven Residents

Sen. Joe Addabbo:  If you have any emergencies over the weekend please call my 24 hour hotline at 718-738-1111 so we can start working on your issues immediately.

Assemblyman Mike Miller:   If our office can be of any assistance to you before, during, or after the storm, please feel free to contact us 24/7 at 718-805-0950.  As always we will have someone answering the phone during all hours of the day and night.

Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley:  If you have any questions or need assistance please do not hesitate to call my office at 718-366-3900. Our office will be open from 9-3 on Saturday and when appropriate on Sunday, so feel free to visit us at 64-77 Dry Harbor Rd. Middle Village.

Councilman Eric Ulrich:  My Ozone Park district office will be OPEN all weekend to assist people who need help. (718) 738-1083

You can also call the WRBA at 718-296-3735 — but you will need to leave a message.  Once again, consider becoming a Block Captain — you’ll be more “plugged in” during an emergency.

Raising Funds to Fight For Woodhaven

The Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association is holding a fundraiser on Friday, September 23rd at Joe Abbraciamento on Woodhaven Boulevard.  Doors open at 7:00 and festivities begin at 7:30.  Tickets are $65 and if you want to attend, call 718-296-3735 (leave a message), send an email to info@woodhaven-nyc.org, or you can purchase them online (click here).

A little background if you’re new to the WRBA — we are a group of Woodhaven residents, all volunteers, we do not get paid a penny.  The organization survives largely on donations and small membership dues.

What is it that we do?  When it looked like the city was going to close our Firehouse, we worked with our elected officials and other organizations and we hit the streets and mobilized people — the result was a strong rally –

This is really nothing new for the WRBA. When they’ve come for our firehouse in the past, the WRBA was there. When they came for our library, the WRBA was there. When they threatened our senior center, we were there. We’ve attended rallies and written letters in support of our local teachers, brought attention to the need to reduce residential noise, fought against illegal conversions, out of state parking. We’ve walked the streets of Woodhaven with paint cans in our hand, covering up graffiti vandalism.

When faced with an abandoned house being used as a drug den, we were told it would take 18 months to get it sealed. The WRBA got it sealed in 18 days!  These accomplishments have been done the old-fashioned way – by rolling up our sleeves and working hard. It is no secret that for the past few years, the WRBA has been neglected financially – we have received very little in the way of funding and have barely scraped by. And that is why we’re reaching out to the residents for help.

Every single dollar raised at this fundraiser goes to the Woodhaven Community.  We run a tight ship and we do not waste a single dollar –

And besides helping your community — you’ll have one heck of a time!  Have you ever eaten at Joe Abbraciamentos?  The food is fantastic — and for your money you get a delicious 4-course meal, you get dessert — beer and wine is included — we’ve got a great DJ, there’s dancing, raffles, prizes –

And, most importantly, come out to celebrate Woodhaven with your friends and neighbors.  And if you don’t know anyone?  Let us know and we’ll take you around and introduce you — and at the end of the night you’ll find that your Community just got a little smaller, and a lot friendlier.

Hope to see you on the 23rd –