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Suspect Arrested in Kissena Park Assault Case

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

Courtesy Crime Stoppers

Christian Giovani Landi, a 25-year-old migrant from Ecuador, was arrested early Tuesday morning in Corona, New York, following a week-long manhunt sparked by a brazen assault in Kissena Corridor Park.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Authorities have apprehended a suspect in connection with the shocking sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl in a Queens park.

The arrest early Tuesday morning follows a week-long manhunt that gripped the city after the brazen attack last Thursday. Police identified the suspect as Christian Giovani Landi, a 25 year old migrant from Ecuador who entered the U.S. through Eagle Pass, Texas, in June 2021. He was taken into custody around 1:30 a.m. after vigilant members of the community recognized him from surveillance images released by the NYPD.

According to police sources, the suspect was located at a single-room-occupancy dwelling in Corona, just three miles from the scene of the assault at Kissena Corridor Park in Flushing. Upon spotting him, several individuals intervened, resulting in a physical altercation that left the suspect with minor injuries. He was subsequently transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

Authorities have described the apprehended individual as a “strong person of interest” in the case but have not yet filed formal charges.

The assault, which occurred in broad daylight, sent shockwaves through the community. Police recounted that the suspect approached the two 13-year-olds as they finished playing soccer, brandishing a large machete-style knife. He coerced them into a wooded area, where he allegedly tied their wrists with a shoelace and sexually assaulted the girl before stealing their cellphones and fleeing.

In response to the incident, the NYPD swiftly mobilized, deploying sketches based on descriptions provided by the victims, including a distinctive tattoo of a boar on the suspect’s chest. Surveillance footage captured the suspect on a bicycle, further aiding investigators in their search.

The arrest comes on the heels of a $10,000 reward offered by authorities for information leading to the suspect’s capture and conviction. Police credit the quick identification and apprehension to the cooperation of the community and the bravery of the victims in providing crucial details.

Authorities have indicated that further updates on charges and court proceedings will be forthcoming as the investigation progresses.

Courtesy NYPD

Identified with the help of surveillance images and community vigilance, the migrant man is a prime suspect in the alleged coercion, assault, and robbery of two 13-year-olds last Thursday.

From NYPD to Assemblyman Candidate, Meet Kenneth Paek

BQE Admin on June 20, 2024

Mohamed Farghaly

 

Kenneth Paek, an experienced NYPD veteran, seeks to become Assemblyman in District 25, focusing on public safety, economic reform, and education.

 

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Kenneth Paek, a seasoned NYPD veteran with a distinguished career spanning precinct duty to specialized units, is now vying for the position of Assemblyman in District 25. His candidacy is defined by a commitment to public safety, economic reform, and educational improvement, rooted in his deep-seated passion for community service and his extensive experience in law enforcement. Paek is one of the candidates seeking to challenge current Assemblywoman Nily Rozic.

Kenneth and his wife, Eun Paek have been married for 20 years and reside in Oakland Gardens, with their children, Katelyn and Brenden. Their personal experiences navigating the challenges of raising a family in New York City inform Paek’s policies aimed at improving community life and securing a brighter future for all residents.

Paek’s journey in law enforcement began in the 5th Precinct and evolved through roles in high-stakes units like the Emergency Services Unit, where he handled complex cases including incidents involving weapons of mass destruction. Paek’s career spans over two decades in the New York City Police Department, where he went on to serve as a Public Safety Sergeant at the 109th Precinct.

Motivated by a lifelong aspiration to serve and protect, Paek entered law enforcement to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. His decision to run for Assemblyman stems from a desire to continue his public service in a broader capacity, advocating for policies that prioritize safety and empower local law enforcement agencies.

Central to Paek’s campaign is his critique of recent bail reforms, which he believes jeopardize public safety by swiftly releasing potentially dangerous offenders back into communities. This stance resonates deeply with constituents concerned about crime rates and community security, despite the challenges of engaging residents wary of recent legislative changes.

“I started feeling like this bail reform, like while I’m putting my life on the line, I’m putting my police officer’s life on the line to catch that person and they are on the street again,” Paek said. “You know, people do make mistakes, but the same time you don’t make mistakes by using a weapon to rob somebody, that’s not a mistake.”

His campaign emphasizes his commitment to ensuring safety in local neighborhoods, drawing on his firsthand experience addressing community concerns and maintaining law and order. Paek believes that with this breadth of experience, it equips him with a unique perspective on community safety and crisis management, crucial skills he intends to leverage in Albany.

“I’m gonna start advocating, I’m gonna be the the loudest voice amplifier in Albany or the city hall trying to educate these people,” Paek said. “At the same time, it kind of boils down to safety, right? Like I want to go to work without getting slashed. I want to go to work without getting shot, whether you’re Democrats or whether Republican. I’m going to educate them. I’m going to persuade them we need to change these rules and regulations.”

In addition to an emphasis on law enforcement, Paek understands the challenges faced by small businesses in New York City. He advocates for reducing bureaucratic red tape and regulations to foster job creation and stimulate economic growth. Paek promises to fight for fiscal responsibility in government, vowing to cut wasteful spending and promote efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

Campaigning actively by personally canvassing neighborhoods, Paek is undeterred by these obstacles. In a district with approximately 7,000 registered Republican voters, he estimates needing around 1,200 votes to secure victory in the primary—a goal he pursues with passion, addressing voter concerns face-to-face and through community outreach efforts.

On criminal justice reform, Paek advocates for a balanced approach that combines tough penalties for repeat and violent offenders with rehabilitative programs aimed at younger individuals to prevent recidivism. His stance reflects his belief in strengthening law enforcement capabilities while fostering initiatives that address root causes of crime.

In navigating political challenges, Paek emphasizes amplifying district concerns in Albany, promising to advocate for regulatory changes based on community feedback and his extensive law enforcement background. His candidacy gains traction through grassroots support and a well-organized campaign bolstered by significant fundraising efforts.

“I want to make city lot safer for everybody that that lives in the five boroughs, in New York State and New York City,” Paek said. “I was telling people, I was telling my voters, don’t just call me on your good days, call me on your bad days. Meaning that, coming from a cop background, people don’t call 911 when they’re having a birthday parties or a good time. People always calls like in emergencies. If you got any worries, concerns and ideas that could make my district and my city better, contact me and I’m all in for it.”

District 25 encompasses a diverse array of neighborhoods in Queens, including areas that have seen rapid demographic changes in recent years. Paek’s candidacy is positioned to resonate with voters seeking a leader who understands local issues and is committed to implementing practical solutions.

The Assemblyman position in District 25 carries significant responsibilities, including voting on legislation, approving state spending, and weighing in on gubernatorial vetoes. Paek’s candidacy underscores his readiness to take on these responsibilities and advocate vigorously on behalf of his constituents in Albany. In New York City, early voting is held from June 15 to June 23. There is a one day break before the primary on June 25.

 

 

His candidacy challenges Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, driven by his extensive law enforcement background and commitment to community service.

New Library Opens at Samaritan Daytop Village Shelter in Queens

BQE Admin on June 6, 2024

By MOHAMED FARGHALY mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Samaritan Daytop Village, in collaboration with United Way and NYC Department for Social Services, launched ‘The Bookmark,’ a new library at Boulevard family shelter in Queens on May 29. Courtesy of Anat Gerstein, Inc.

A new chapter in literacy and community support unfolded on May 29 as Samaritan Daytop Village, in collaboration with United Way and the New York City Department for Social Services, unveiled ‘The Bookmark,’ a vibrant library nestled within the Boulevard family shelter in Queens.

Designed to serve 199 families residing at the shelter, The Bookmark offers an array of literary resources aimed at enriching the lives of children and parents alike. From a diverse collection of children’s books to designated reading spaces and computer terminals for older youth and adults, the facility promises to be a sanctuary of learning and relaxation.

The facility, serving 199 families, offers books, reading spaces, and computers. Courtesy of Anat Gerstein, Inc.

The grand opening ceremony witnessed a heartwarming moment as DSS Administrator Carter, Samaritan CEO Mitchell Netburn, and United Way CEO Grace Bonilla came together to read the beloved children’s book “Chicka Chicka Boom Boom” to the shelter’s young residents.

The creation of this haven for literature owes its existence to a $10,000 grant from United Way of New York City, part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing access to books and literacy-based activities in underserved communities. In line with this vision, The Bookmark represents a cornerstone of a larger endeavor to ensure that every child in shelter environments has access to the resources necessary for their educational and personal development.

“We are grateful to partner with trusted organizations to advance education equity and empower all children and adults with increased access to the world of literature and books,” Grace Bonilla, President & CEO at United Way of New York City said. “These community libraries are foundational for ensuring that all New Yorkers can thrive as the libraries are planting seeds for future economic mobility.”

In a statement, Mitchell Netburn, CEO of Samaritan Daytop Village, expressed gratitude for the collaborative effort that brought The Bookmark to fruition, emphasizing its significance in promoting academic advancement and fostering social and emotional well-being among shelter residents. Netburn underscored the library’s role as a model for similar initiatives across New York City, thanking United Way for their generosity and support.

“Thanks to the generosity of United Way and the partnership with the New York City Department of Homeless Services, our families have a space where children and their parents can spend quiet time, research, read, and engage in activities,” Netburn said. “This new library adds to our Afterschool Zone initiative at the Boulevard shelter, which gives children a leg up academically, promotes intellectual learning, and expands their social and emotional learning opportunities.  Together, this library and the Afterschool Zone serve as a model for other family residences in New York City. We are grateful to United Way for making this possible.”

United Way’s $10,000 grant funded the project, aiming to enhance literacy in marginalized communities. Courtesy of Anat Gerstein, Inc.

Similarly, Joslyn Carter, DHS Administrator, highlighted the transformative power of reading, describing it as a conduit to imagination and relaxation. Carter commended United Way of New York City for their contribution, recognizing The Bookmark as a vital resource for children and families seeking solace and inspiration during challenging times.

“Reading is fundamental. Reading is one of things that can take you to a place of fantasy, where you can just relax and hear stories,” Carter said. “That’s the opportunity that we need to give to children and families, and here it is, the chance to do just that in this beautiful space. As soon as I walked through this door, my spirits were lifted. We could not have done this without the generosity of the United Way of New York City – thank you.”

Leaders praised the initiative’s potential to support educational and emotional well-being in shelter residents. Courtesy of Anat Gerstein, Inc.

The unveiling of The Bookmark marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to provide holistic support to families experiencing homelessness, reflecting a shared commitment to nurturing a culture of learning and resilience within communities across the city.

Tour of the 1964/65 World’s Fair Grounds Features Queens-Based Performers

BQE Admin on May 29, 2024

By Britney Trachtenberg britt@queensledger.com

Queens Theater and Queensboro Dance Festival gave free tours of the 1964/65 World’s Fair Grounds on Sun., May 26 in honor of the fair’s 60th Anniversary. Karesia Batan, Executive Director of the Queensboro Dance Festival, and Justin Rivers, Chief Experience Officer of Untapped New York led attendees around Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Pop-up performances represented the pavilions at the World’s Fair, which opened in Apr. of 1964 and ran until Oct. of 1965.

Batan asked, “All the performances and all the artists that you’re [going to see] today [are] all from Queens, so can we please give a shout out to the most diverse borough in the world?” The attendees clapped.

Attendees met at the Unisphere at 2:00 p.m. and participated in an international flag parade in honor of the Fair’s Avenue of Flags and Court of Nations, which represented the unity of the countries that came to the 1964/65 World’s Fair. 

Queens-based band Brass Monkeys led the participants to the Court of the Universe in honor of the New Orleans Jazz Tent at the World’s Fair. Rivers said, “The city of New Orleans was represented by Louisiana. They had a New Orleans Jazz Tent where you could see jazz performed on a regular basis throughout your time here at the World’s Fair.”

The Chinese Dance studio RU Dance from Flushing performed Latin dances at the Court of the Universe. Barbara Deakin from Sunnyside said, “It was cross-cultural, so that seemed to embody the idea of the World’s Fair.”

Rivers discussed the Court of the Universe and the Fountain of the Planets’ significant roles in the World’s Fair. He said, “For those of you who remember the World’s Fair, you know that the theme was all about space. Behind me in that body of water is the Fountain of the Planets. When it was actually created for the 1939 World’s Fair, it required a conduit from the Flushing Bay that is the size of the Holland Tunnel to push the water into the basin and create the lakes on the other side of the highway that we have today.” He also said, “For the 1964/65 World’s Fair, all around this pool were the captains of industry and commerce.” The companies in this area included GE, Clairol, Bell Industries, IBM, and Pepsi-Cola.

CarNYval Dancers from Jamaica, Queens presented a Caribbean Soca near the Rocket Thrower statue. During the 1964/65 World’s Fair, the Caribbean Pavilion was located near the structure. The pavilion consisted of two buildings with palm-tree-lined terraces and contained steel drum bands and calypso dance performances.

Rivers said, “Robert Moses was President of the World’s Fair Corporation and had a say in basically everything that was going on here. He picked the artist Donald De Lue for that statue. He had only six months to create that bronze statue.” Rivers elaborated, “When it was revealed, it was not loved so much by the people in general because it was a little bit older than people’s sensibilities in the post-modern futuristic ‘60s.”

Tinikling from the Philippines and The Physical Plant from Sunnyside danced on a set of steps near the base of the Unisphere. During the 1964/95 World’s Fair, a moat surrounded the Philippines Pavilion with three bridges.

Kofago Dance Ensemble from Jamaica, Queens taught attendees a West African dance routine. The ensemble presented a West Africa drum routine as well.

10tecomai Yosakoi Dance Project from Bayside performed a Japanese Yosakoi routine.

In the Nebula Lobby at Theaterama!, N.Y. Aikikai gave an Aikido martial arts demonstration. The dojo of Yamada Sensei introduced Aikido to the U.S. at the World’s Fair. Batan said, “That is actually something very personal to me. My whole family practices Aikido.”

The Greek American Folklore Society from Astoria presented Greek dances. During their last routine, the dancers invited attendees to perform with them. Participants held hands and danced in a circle. They learned the basic steps involved in Greek dances.

Students from McManus Irish Dance in Sunnyside performed three Irish step dancing routines.

After arriving at the Vatican Bench, participants listened to a music installation of the Cities Service Band of America, which played at the World’s Fair.

When asked how the World’s Fair Tour came together, Batan said, “I love producing events like this. We determined the type of walking route. I looked up the actual souvenir map to see what country pavilions were sort of near the historical sites that we would be stopping at and that was the inspiration to figure out which Queens-based dance groups on our roster to reach out to.”

The QDF presents free outdoor dance performances in public parks across Queens. Their free dance tour begins on June 8. The twenty-five dance groups represent the various cultures in Queens.

Mural Brings Color and Comfort to St. Mary’s Hospital

BQE Admin on May 23, 2024

By MOHAMED FARGHALY mfarghaly@queensledger.com

St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children recently unveiled a vibrant mural at its Bayside Facility, commissioned by Maspeth Federal Savings and crafted by Splashes of Hope, aiming to uplift patients and families. Courtesy of Maspeth Federal Savings.

St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for kids and young adults with special health needs, celebrated the unveiling of a vibrant new mural at its Bayside Facility on May 15. 

Commissioned by Maspeth Federal Savings (MFS) and crafted by Splashes of Hope, a nonprofit organization known for its transformative healthcare murals, the artwork aims to uplift the spirits of patients and their families.

Jill Nicolois, Vice President and Community Affairs Director at Maspeth Federal Savings, shed light on the recent collaboration with St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children and Splashes of Hope to unveil a new mural. Nicolois highlighted the longstanding relationship between Maspeth Federal and Splashes of Hope, emphasizing their shared commitment to supporting healthcare facilities, particularly during the pandemic.

“St. Mary’s has long been a beacon of hope for the New York City families,” Nicolois said.  “It is our hope that this mural becomes a source of light and healing for patients and their loved ones.”

Nicolois noted the specific details about the mural’s design and its significance to the Queens community. She emphasized the meticulous attention to detail in portraying Queens’ rich tapestry of landmarks and iconic locations, which collectively contribute to the borough’s vibrant spirit.

“Somebody from the hospital requested this theme,” Nicolois said. “They came up with that idea and so as a lifelong Queens, we were able to brainstorm the A to Z Queens locations.”

Nicolois elaborated on the diverse array of Queens landmarks depicted in the mural, ranging from renowned structures like the Unisphere and JFK Airport to local favorites such as the Queens Zoo and the Seven Train. Each element was carefully selected to represent the borough’s cultural and historical significance, offering patients and their families a visual journey through Queens’ storied landscape.

Representing the diverse tapestry of Queens, the mural features iconic landmarks and businesses, highlighting the borough’s cultural richness and celebrating its entrepreneurial spirit, with bilingual elements to reflect the community’s diversity. Courtesy of Maspeth Federal Savings.

The inclusion of representations of local businesses within the mural was also highlighted, underscoring the community’s interconnectedness and the mural’s role in celebrating Queens’ entrepreneurial spirit. From beloved eateries like the Cone Ice King to prominent establishments like Target, the mural serves as a tribute to the diverse economic ecosystem that thrives within the borough.

Additionally, Nicolois pointed out the bilingual elements incorporated into the mural, reflecting Queens’ status as one of the most linguistically diverse places in the world. With portions of the artwork featuring text in both English and Spanish, the mural celebrates the cultural diversity of the community and ensures that all visitors, regardless of language proficiency, feel welcomed and represented.

The decision to commission the mural for St. Mary’s stemmed from Maspeth Federal’s desire to bring light and inspiration to the hospital’s patients and families. Nicolois outlined the collaborative process, which involved visiting the hospital with Splashes of Hope to select a suitable location for the mural and commissioning the artwork at no cost to the hospital.

St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children, known for its advanced care and specialized services, was described as a lifeline for children with long-term health needs.  St. Mary’s  has been a beacon of hope since its establishment in 1870 as New York City’s first hospital dedicated to severely ill children. Regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, St. Mary’s provides essential care for children who require advanced treatments, serving as a lifeline for countless families.

“As a community bank, our mission is to always try to help those in our community that need help and to complete this mission we need to find partners who share the same vision of helping those that are in need,” Thomas Rudzewick, President and CEO of Maspeth Federal Savings. “St. Mary’s Children Hospital’s mission statement says, ‘We bring big hearts to our little patients,’ so who better to partner with.”

Dr. Edwin Simpser, President and CEO of St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children, expressed gratitude for the partnership with MFS and Splashes of Hope, emphasizing the positive impact such collaborations have on the hospital’s programs and services.

“With the help of philanthropic support from organizations like Maspeth Federal Savings, our programs and services keep thriving and enriching the daily lives of children at St. Mary’s,” Simpser said.

The unveiling ceremony, attended by representatives from MFS, Splashes of Hope, and St. Mary’s, featured heartfelt speeches and the presence of patients eager to witness the unveiling of the mural, which had been concealed until the event. The event marked the culmination of months of collaboration and planning, with the mural serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who encounter it.

“Today marks another step toward transforming medical spaces from clinical to colorful,” Elizabeth Schafer of Splashes of Hope said.

The collaboration between Maspeth Federal Savings, Splashes of Hope, and St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children underscores the power of art in healthcare settings, providing comfort, inspiration, and a sense of belonging to those facing challenging circumstances.

To find out more about Maspeth Federal Savings, please visit maspethfederal.com. For information about Splashes of Hope and their impactful community work visit splashesofhope.org.

Maspeth Federal Savings, established in 1947, is among New York City’s oldest mutual savings banks. Committed to providing fee-free, community-centered banking services to individuals, families, and small businesses throughout Queens and Long Island, MFS upholds core values and actively engages with the community. Recognized as a certified Great Place to Work, MFS supports local initiatives through charitable donations and partnerships.

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