By Mark Hallum
The memory of President John F. Kennedy is alive and well in Queens where elected officials and community leaders celebrated what would be his 100th birthday in Oakland Gardens.
John F. Kennedy Circle filled with people May 19, including City Councilman Barry Grodenchik (D-Oakland Gardens), state Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows), retiring Community Board 11 District Manager Susan Seinfeld and students at PS 46 to mark the 35th president’s birth with musical performances and poetry.
Kennedy was born May 29, 1917 in Brookline, Mass.
“Today we commemorate the centennial of the birth of John F. Kennedy,” Grodenchik said. “Given today’s political climate, we must remember and celebrate JFK’s spirit of inclusion and his contributions to our country and the world at large. Joined by Assembly member David I. Weprin and the promising young students of PS 46 Queens, let us continue to work together to make a difference in our communities.”
Kennedy came from an Irish-American background. He placed a strong emphasis on civil rights in his 1963 speech calling for a Civil Rights Act of 1964. The act, signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson following Kennedy’s death, is often regarded as a turning point for the movement when it became no less of a legal question and more of a moral one.
Kennedy was assassinated on Nov. 22, 1963, during a visit to Dallas.
The circle at 218th Street and 68th Avenue in Oakland Gardens became the only street in New York City named in his honor, according to Grodenchik’s office.
“In the 1960s, President John F. Kennedy inspired millions to get involved and take on their civic duty,” Weprin said. “In 2017, with millions of Americans marching for civil rights, equal opportunity, and justice, President Kennedy’s message resonates more than ever.”
Seinfeld explained she had been influenced by Kennedy at a young age when news broke of his death.
“I was the age of these students, attending PS 152 in Woodside, Queens, when I learned of the assassination of the president. It is a moment in time that is never forgotten because Mr. Kennedy was such an eminent national hero during my formative years,” Seinfeld said.
Bell Park Gardens co-op sits nearby the grassy, oblong circle dedicated to Kennedy.
“The park and its memorial flag pole are an important part of the Bell Park Gardens community,” said Stuart Betheil, manager of the co-op. “The organization of the event by our local public officials and the participation of the children from PS 46Q, made the event and the recognition of our former president a significant occasion for the community as well as for the residents and the board of directors of Bell Park Gardens.”
Reach reporter Mark Hallum by e-mail at mhall
