By Naeisha Rose
Elected officials helped to kick off the 15th annual Senior Appreciation Month at the Southern Queens Parks Association’s headquarters last week. In attendance with the seniors were officials from the city Department of Finance.
Throughout the celebration, seniors learned about the different events they could attend throughout southeast Queens at various institutions and cultural centers.
“These older men and women created the communities we all enjoy to live in, and I am pleased to be able to work with my colleagues in government to support the quality of life they so deserve,” said Councilman I. Daneek Miller (D-St. Albans). “This month, our seniors will have the opportunity to socialize, exercise and be entertained with music and comedy.”
Some of the events included a Gospel fest, bowling and a comedy show.
Representatives of the city agency informed the seniors during a presentation that their property tax credits were increased , meaning they will save $115 per year.
Other elected officials in attendance were state Sens. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) and James Sanders (D-South Ozone Park), Assemblywomen Alicia Hyndman (D-Springfield Gardens) and Vivian Cook (D-Jamaica), as well as Councilmen Rory Lancman (D-Hillcrest) and Barry Grodenchik (D-Oakland Gardens).
“I am pleased to join my colleagues from across eastern Queens who are providing a range of programs in honor of Senior Month,” said Grodenchik. “My office is sponsoring programs at a SNAP Senior Center in Queens Village, at which both the state comptroller’s office and the city Finance Department will help local seniors to access rent freezes, property tax exemptions, and unclaimed funds.”
So far this Fiscal Year $195,000 has been secured for senior services in Council District 27.
Reach reporter Naeisha Rose by e-mail at nrose
