Luke Adams
Jan. 12, 2014 By Christian Murray
A group of Sunnyside artists are banding together to help raise funds for long-time resident Luke Adams who lost his job and was admitted into hospital last week.
Adams, a long-serving volunteer and former business owner, lost his $300 per week marketing director position at the Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce early last week. His position was eliminated due to a lack of funds, according to the chamber.
Later in the week, Adams was rushed to hospital with a serious foot infection by his local physician Dr. Jagat Rawal. His condition is listed as stable.
Given Adams’ tough times, local artists Manny Gomez, Patricia Dorfman and Frances Schmidt are organizing a fundraising event at Murphy’s Lobster Grill on Monday, February 3, from 5-9 pm. Some of Adams’ personal items will be sold. There will also be raffles, food and drink on offer. There will be a $25 cover.
“Luke Adams is a local treasure,” said Pat Dorfman, a close friend of his. “He is the best promoter in Queens and loyal to a fault. I urge everyone to come and wish him well at our old-time ‘rent party.’”
Adams, who was at one time the vice president of the Chamber of Commerce, is well known by the community for his work with the Lions Club and SunnysideArtists.org. Furthermore, he was the first recipient of the Sunnysider of the Year award, which is named after him.
Adams’ medical expenses are largely covered by Medicare, but all proceeds from the benefit will help him pay his rent and other bills.
The event will be held through SunnysideArtists, a group which “Luke helped from the very beginning,” said Manny Gomez, the president of the organization. “Luke is a local arts booster. He still is a big help.”
For more information, email sunnysideartists@gmail.com, or call 718-909-4806.
