STITCHIE PERFORMS FOR MHHC HEALTH CARE FESTIVAL IN THE BRONX

Dancehall Pioneer Stitchie

From Dave Rodney, Contributor

Morris Heights Health Center, a group of health care providers located in the Bronx, NY is hosting an exciting free Health Care Festival and Fun Day on Saturday August 16 from 10 AM to 4 PM at its newest Bronx facility at 825 East 233 Street.

The Saturday daytime Bronx bashment forms part of MHHC's celebration of National Health Center Week, and this special event promises to sizzle with a range of invigorating activities for all ages.

A huge magnet for the day's activity will be a rousing live performance by dancehall pioneer, veteran and hit machine Stitchie. Over the years, Stitchie has enjoyed a dazzing career in both dancehall and gospel.  He has churned out a barrage of #1 hits including 'Wear Yu Size', 'Natty Dread', 'Big Broad Hips', 'Night & Day', 'Bun It Dung', 'Dress To Impress' and many more, and his electrifying showmanship alongside his lyrical genius have brought him rave reviews all over the world- from the dancehalls and church halls of Jamaica to the mega-size concert stadiums of Europe and Japan. He was the first dancehall artist to be signed by Atlantic Records, and he was recently named ''Best Performer' at the recently held Rebel Salute concert in Jamaica. One of Stitchie's singles, 'Body Body' promotes a better understanding for the workings of the human body, and it is sure to strike a familiar chord at the MHHC health care event.

But there will be a lot more stewing in the MHHC Festival and Fun Day pot. The facility will be offering free screenings for a number of health issues including HIV, blood pressure and glucose, and medical professionals will be on hand to offer guidance and information to attendees who have questions and concerns.

There will be loads of fun stuff too that will be simply too good to miss-  free hair cuts, face painting, a rising stars competition, a dance contest, music, food, ice cream for the kids, giveaways, and a number of New York City radio stations broadcasting live from the event. Residents of the community are urged to come out early to make the most of the day.

MHHC has a heritage of providing first class health care for Caribbean American, Hispanic and African communities in the Bronx for over thirty years, and the company is continuing that outstanding and impeccable tradition as it expands and grows. For more, go to www.mhhc.org

Green Acres Mall Participates in National Night Out

Join the folks at the Green Acres Mall along with Assemblywoman Michaelle C. Solages and Nassau County legislator Carrie Solages for National Night Out. Tuesday, August 5, 2014 is dedicated to promoting crime prevention, police-community partnerships, and sending a message to expand and strengthen crime prevention programs for the next 364 days!

Look out for the giveaways, raffles and entertainment at the Green Acres Mall parking lot right by the Macy's Men and Kohl's entrance.

for more information or directions check their website at Green Acres Mall

Sunnyside Summer Strolls - July 26th and August 2nd

Get ready for the 2014 Sunnyside Summer Strolls event series!  This year we are back on 46th Street under the Sunnyside arch with free arts programming for the entire family.  This year's series consists of two events: the Children's Arts & Crafts Fair on Saturday, July 26 and the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Concert on Saturday, August 2.



JULY 26: Children's Arts and Crafts Fair | 1pm-6pm

Free arts and crafts festival for the entire family!  This year, we are joining forces with Re-Create QNS, a fantastic coalition of arts organizations in Sunnyside to present the Children's Arts and Crafts Fair.  We'll have craft-making activities and performances all day long, as well as some amazing activities and giveaways from local Sunnyside businesses.

Adjacent to the event, we'll have a pop-up library happening right in the Bliss Plaza at 46th Street, thanks to the Uni Project, the Sunnyside Library and the Neighborhood Plaza Partnership!

These amazing organizations and local businesses will have stations set up at the craft fair:

Artist & Craftsman Supply
Bing's Hallmark
Dime Savings Bank
4Squared Flavors
Fresh n Save Marketplace
KMIA Salon
McManus Irish Dance
Sunnyside Ballet Studio
Sunnyside Community Services
TD Bank
Turkish Cultural Center
Unplug Kids


Performance Schedule:

1:00 PM: McManus Irish Dance

1:30 PM: Mare Nostrum Elements

2:00 PM: Music Together  

3:00 PM: McManus Irish Dance

4:00 PM: Sunnyside Ballet Studio

4:30 PM: Music Together

5:00 PM: Music for Queens (Tyronne Barnett)



The Sunnyside Shines BID is a great organization that really engages its residents and businesses in fun activities and events. For more information visit their website at:

http://www.sunnysideshines.org/

So..You Still Don't Believe in Social Media

I just came across a great article on the Business 2 Community website (http://www.business2community.com/) that walks you through how to talk to a social media skeptic. The article is really for someone who is in the role of social media manager or social media marketing but the ideas in the piece apply to all those skeptical of the role social media plays in business and in society. I am not here to defend the viability of these platforms to make money (although many of them are doing quite well). But to be at this point in time and deny that social media platforms have no power or purpose, well...

I will let you check this article out for yourself and if you're in the position of social media manager and someone questions what you do, take a deep breath and use these points in the article to win a new fan

How To Talk To A Social Media Skeptic:
http://www.business2community.com/social-media/talk-social-media-skeptic-0953408#!bkvi7q

It’s In Queens! (July 24 to July 30)

It must be Classics Week, as Shakespeare, the Beatles, Godzilla, The Wizard of Oz, Fiddler on the Roof, and a multi-day Latin cultural festival come to town. Fun-seekers can also enjoy outdoor movies, concerts and festivals and indoor lectures on such topics as feral cats, the environment, and the Holocaust. Here’s the rundown:

July 24, Two Gentlemen of Verona, 7:30 pm. Hip-to-Hip Theatre Company performs Shakespeare’s slapstick comedy about love, friendship, betrayal, forgiveness, and a dog. This zany tale of romantic rivals asks the question: Is all really fair in love? Special workshop for children at 7 pm. Free. Crocheron Park, vicinity of 214th Place, and 33rd Avenue, Bayside, www.hiptohip.org

July 24, The Devotions, 7:30 pm. Enjoy a Doo Wop vocal group with Astoria roots as part of the Central Astoria Local Development Coalition’s 2014 Waterfront Concert Series. Free. Astoria Park Great Lawn, Shore Boulevard between the Hell Gate Bridge and Astoria Pool, www.centralastoria.org

July 24-26, Fiddler on the Roof, 8 pm. The Josephine Foundation hosts this time-honored musical about a Jewish family’s struggles in Russia in 1905. $25/$40 for VIP seating. Immaculate Conception Center, 72-00 Douglaston Pkwy., Douglaston, www.thejosephinefoundation.org

July 24, Tom Finnegan’s Rainbow, 7 pm. This Woodside group plays classic rock as part of the Woodside Summer Concert Series presented by the Northwest Woodside Coalition and Goliard Concerts. Free. Sgt. Collins Park, 58th Street and Broadway, Woodside, (718) 205-1030

July 25-27, The World’s Fair Play Festival, Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 2 pm and 8 pm, Sundays at 3 pm. This is Queens Theatre’s 25th season, which coincides with the 50th and 75th anniversaries of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs. In celebration, QT presents 10 original, 10-minute plays inspired by these fairs, which took place in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. $18. QT, 14 United Nations Ave. S., FMCP, www.queenstheatre.org

July 25, Classic Monster Film Fridays: Godzilla, 8:19 pm. The ocean’s surface boils and a Japanese freighter vanishes in the Pacific Ocean. Odo Island’s superstitious villagers rightly fear the ancient legend Godzilla has come true. The behemoth seeks revenge on the world, turning Tokyo into a wasteland of atomic fire and rubble. Young lovers Emiko and Ogata are trapped in the monster’s path of destruction, forced to choose between betraying a friend and saving the world. Free. Rufus King Park, Jamaica Avenue at 153rd Street, Jamaica, www.abetterjamaica.org

July 25, Beatles Concert at the Beach, 7 pm. Enjoy an evening of Beatles music with a terrific tribute band. Free. Beach 108th Street Hockey Rink, Rockaway

July 25, Two Gentlemen of Verona, 7:30 pm. Hip-to-Hip Theatre Company performs Shakespeare’s slapstick comedy about love, friendship, betrayal, forgiveness, and a dog. Special workshop for children at 7 pm. Free. Lost Battalion Hall Recreation Center, 93-29 Queens Blvd., Rego Park, www.hiptohip.org

July 26, Fourth Annual FLIC NIC in the Street, dusk. The Queens World Film Festival and the Jackson Heights Green Alliance offer three family friendly films about fathers and their children. Bring a chair, blanket, a picnic and a beverage. Free. 78th Street Play Street at 34th Avenue, Jackson Heights, www.queensworldfilmfestival.com

July 26, Caïn et les Cadiens: Chez Nous Autres, 2 pm and 4 pm. Cain-Oscar Bergeron and his ensemble take audiences on a musical journey across Cajun America while exploring change and the human spirit. This musical and visual collaboration tells the story of the French settlers who became known as Acadians, or Cajuns. The flute, viola, piano, guitar, accordion, and more play in classical and Cajun folk styles. Free. Flushing Branch Library, 41-17 Main St., Flushing, www.cainoscarbergeron.com

July 26, Children’s Arts and Crafts Fair, 1 pm to 6 pm. Activities include face painting, water marbling, ballet, Irish step, modern dance, and performances by local musicians. Families learn about the wide array of local arts and enrichment programs and meet the artists and teachers in person. Plus, the new Bliss Plaza under the elevated 7 train on 46th Street hosts a pop-up library. Free. 46th Street between Greenpoint Avenue and Queens Boulevard, under the Sunnyside arch and adjacent to the 46thStreet/Bliss Street station on the 7 line, Sunnyside, www.sunnysideshines.org

July 26, Beach Flix, sundown. Bring a blanket or beach chair and watch the movie Surf’s Up outdoors on the sand. Free. Beach 73rd Street, www.RockawayCivic.com

July 26, Candy Twisted Balloon Show, 1 pm. As part of its Children’s Summer Entertainment Series, Rego Center presents interactive performances, including Mad Science Show, Candy Twisted Balloon Show, and Kid’s Singer Dave Jay. Free. Rego Center, 61-35 Junction Blvd., Rego Park, www.regocenter.com

July 26, King Cymbeline, 7:30 pm. Hip-to-Hip Theater Company presents a fantastical action-adventure Shakespeare play that combines tragedy, comedy, and romance. King Cymbeline’s only daughter, Imogen, secretly marries against his wishes, and he banishes her new husband. With war looming and an evil stepmother plotting, the spunky princess ventures into the wild to reunite with her true love. Special workshop for children at 7 pm. Free. St. Albans Park, vicinity of 169th Street, Merrick Boulevard, Marne Place and Linden Boulevard, St. Albans, www.hiptohip.org

July 26, Wizard of Oz, 1 pm. This 1939 musical starring Judy Garland is 75 years old. Notable for its use of Technicolor, fantasy storytelling, musical score and unusual characters, over the years it has become one of the best known of all films. Free. Greater Astoria Historical Society, Quinn Building, 35-20 Broadway, Fourth Floor, LIC, www.astorialic.org

July 26, Feral/Stray/Community Cats & TNR, Class/Workshop/Webinar, 11 am to 2:30 pm. Learn how to care for feral and stray cats. All steps in setting up a managed colony will be covered, including establishing good community relations, feeding, winter shelter, veterinary care, recovery space, safe handling, and trapping. All workshop attendees will become certified TNR caretakers, and NYC residents will gain access to low-cost spay/neuter, free traps and equipment, and expert guidance and assistance. Free, but advance registration is required. Ridgewood Branch Library, 20-12 Madison St., Ridgewood, www.neighborhoodcats.org

July 27, A Taste of Italy, 2:30 pm. The music, food and culture of Italy and the chance to view the exhibition Remembering Yesterday: Queens and Its World’s Fairs, which takes a look at the two World’s Fairs in Queens (1939 and 1964). $15/$20 at the door. Queens Historical Society, Kingsland Homestead, 143-35 37th Ave., Flushing, www.queenshistoricalsociety.org

July 27, Young Dancemakers, 2 pm. Flushing Town Hall’s free summer concerts series presents a live music and dance performance featuring excerpts of works by master choreographer Paul Taylor. Audience members are invited to join in for a post-concert improvisational workshop with the dancers. Lessons at 1 pm. FTH, 137-35 Northern Blvd., www.flushingtownhall.org

July 27, Music in the Garden: Alicia Svigals & Friends, 6:15 pm. Enjoy a concert featuring the world’s leading Klezmer violinist. Free with admission. Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 St., Flushing, www.queensbotanical.org

July 27, 114th Precinct Civilian Observation Patrol Street Fair, noon to 6 pm. Broadway between Steinway and 47th streets, Astoria, www.centralastoria.org

July 28, Lecture on Catholicism and the Holocaust, 1:30 pm. Catholic Holocaust educator Linna McDonald discusses anti-Semitism in church teachings. She talks about Catholic responses to the Holocaust, from the controversy over Pope Pius and the Vatican to the priests and nuns who risked their lives to rescue Jews. She also addresses the revolution in Catholic teachings since the 1960s and anti-Semitism in the church today. $7 suggested donation. Central Queens Y, 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills, www.cqy.org

July 28, The Goonies, 8:30 pm. Outdoor screening as part of Central Astoria Local Development Coalition’s 2014 Movies on the Waterfront series. Free. Astoria Park Great Lawn, Shore Boulevard between the Hell Gate Bridge and Astoria Pool, www.centralastoria.org

July 29, Kevin Batchelor’s Grand Concourse, 7 pm. Live Reggae and Ska music as part of Live at the Gantries, a series of outdoor performances featuring Queens-based musicians. Free. Gantry Plaza State Park, vicinity of 50th Avenue along the East River, LIC, www.liveatthegantries.com

July 29, Latino Cultural Festival: Glamour Tango, 8 pm. This multi-media show of music and dance was created as a tribute to the women who quietly wrote the pages of Tango from the very beginning. Twelve women make up the entire company, a rarity in the world of Tango. $30. Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing Meadows Corona Park, www.queenstheatre.org

July 29, Summer of ‘69 with Generations, 7 pm. Retro rock as part of 2014 Juniper Valley Park Free Summer Concerts Series. Free. Juniper Valley Park, 80th Street between Juniper Boulevard North and Juniper Boulevard South, Middle Village, www.junipercivic.com

July 29, Stewards of the Environment, 6 pm. Join the Greater Astoria Historical Society for a glass of wine and a community discussion on finding a responsible balance between using and protecting natural resources. Free. GAHS, Quinn Building, 35-20 Broadway, Fourth Floor, LIC, www.astorialic.org

July 30, Latino Cultural Festival: Cocomama, 8 pm. A virtual United Nations of women — from Cuba, Israel, France, Argentina, Mexico, Oregon, and Wisconsin — whose sound draws from the musical traditions of Cuba, Brazil, South and North America. $30. Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing Meadows Corona Park, www.queenstheatre.org

July 30, Beach Flix, sundown. Bring a blanket or beach chair and watch the movie Sixteen Candles outdoors on the sand. Free. Beach 117rd Street, Rockaway, www.RockawayCivic.com

July 30, King Cymbeline, 7:30 pm. Hip-to-Hip Theater Company presents a fantastical action-adventure Shakespeare play that combines tragedy, comedy, and romance. King Cymbeline’s only daughter secretly marries against his wishes, and he banishes her new husband. With war looming and an evil stepmother plotting, the spunky princess ventures into the wild to reunite with her true love. Special workshop for children at 7 pm. Free. Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38th Ave., Flushing, www.hiptohip.org

The “It’s In Queens” column is produced by the Queens Tourism Council with the hope that readers will enjoy the borough’s wonderful attractions. More info at www.itsinqueens.com

Queens World Film Festival - Special Screenings July 19th and 26th in Jackson Heights

FLIC NIC in the STREET: July 19 and July 26, 2014

venue: Travers Park - AKA 78th Street Plaza
where: 78th Street and 34th Ave, Jackson Heights, NY 11372 directions
when: July 19 and July 26 at dusk
website: www.jhgreen.org

The Queens World Film Festival returns to the 78th Street Play Street in Jackson Heights for 2 evenings of wonderful films including shorts AND features; animation AND live action; international AND local. Bring a chair, blanket, a picnic and a beverage or just pull up a piece of curb and enjoy films from around the world and around the corner.

Find all the information on the films here:

Queens World Film Festival

Also don't forget that submissions are open for 2015 (our 5th Annual festival):

QWFF SUBMISSIONS

It’s In Queens! (July 17 to July 23)

No cabin fever this week as Queens hosts outdoor festivals featuring jerk chicken, Shakespeare, African dance, movies, beer, water games, health/wellness, a charity fun run, and music genres such rap, R&B, Top 40, and jazz. But fun-seekers can also stay in the air-conditioned indoors and enjoy Japanese calligraphy, history, comedy, Bugs Bunny, and World’s Fair-inspired theater.

Here’s the rundown:
July 17, SummerStage Presents: Mobb Deep, 7 pm. This rap group has appeared on records that have sold over 40 million copies. They make a special homecoming with Lyrics Lounge in the housing projects where they grew up. Free. Queensbridge Park, vicinity of Vernon Boulevard, 41st Avenue, and the East River, www.nycgovparks.org

July 17, Forever Ray, 7:30 pm. A musical tribute to Ray Charles. Free. Astoria Park Great Lawn, Shore Boulevard between the Hell Gate Bridge and Astoria Pool, www.centralastoria.org

July 17, The Jenny Marino Band, 7 pm. This Middle Village group plays Top 40 hits as part of the Woodside Summer Concert Series presented by the Northwest Woodside Coalition and Goliard Concerts. Free. Sgt. Collins Park, 58th Street and Broadway, Woodside, (718) 205-1030

July 18, QNSMADE Exhibition & Launch Party, 7 pm. The Queens Council on the Arts 3rd Space program launches a web-based project that celebrates the borough’s stories via a series of portraits and interviews. QNSMADE features artists, makers, and doers who were either born in Queens or currently live there. $5. 37-11 35th Ave., Kaufman Arts District, www.queenscouncilarts.org

July 18-27, The World’s Fair Play Festival, Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and 8 pm, Sunday at 3 pm. Queens Theatre presents 10 original 10-minute plays by well-respected playwrights who were inspired by the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, which took place in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. $18. QT, 14 United Nations Ave. S., FMCP, www.queenstheatre.org

July 18, Harambee Dance Company, 7 pm. In Swahili “Harambee” means "let us pull together." Harambee Dance Company pulls together the essence of African and African-American dance and music, presenting it from an innovative and exciting new contemporary perspective. Dance class at 7 pm; concert at 8 pm. Free. Queensbridge Park, vicinity of Vernon Boulevard, 41st Avenue, and the East River, www.nycgovparks.org

July 18, Classic Monster Film Fridays: King Kong, 8:24 pm. The second film in A Better Jamaica’s series. Free. Rufus King Park, Jamaica Avenue at 153rd Street, www.abetterjamaica.org

July 18, Ticked-Off Vic, 8 pm. An evening with comedian Vic DiBitetto, a You Tube sensation who appears on WPLJ’s The Todd Show on Friday. $15-$25. Resorts World Casino New York City, 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., Jamaica, www.rwnewyork.com

July 18, Bokusai, runs until Aug. 7. Exhibit on Japanese artist Shoko Kazama, a distinguished calligrapher of the renowned Zen sect of Kencho-ji. This show’s theme is Otogizoshi, stories from Muromachi period (13th century) that have been passed down verbally among children in Japan. Free. Gallery hours: Monday through Friday, 11 am to 5 pm; Saturday, noon to 5 pm. Resobox, 41-26 27th St., LIC, www.resobox.com

July 19, What’s Up, Doc? The Animation Art of Chuck Jones (runs through Jan. 19, 2015). Legendary animation director from the Bugs Bunny franchise, Chuck Jones, is the focus of this Smithsonian traveling exhibition featuring original artwork, 23 animated films, a short documentary, and an interactive experience. Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria, www.movingimage.us

July 19, World’s Fair Brewfest, noon to 3 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm. Food, craft and art vendors, live musical performances throughout the day, and craft beer choices in a festive setting. $45 in advance, $50 at the door. Tickets required, ages 21 and up. Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 St., Flushing, www.queensbotanical.org

July 19, Fourth Annual FLIC NIC in the Street, dusk. The Queens World Film Festival and the Jackson Heights Green Alliance offer an evening of shorts, features, live action, international, and local movies. Bring a chair, blanket, a picnic, and a beverage or just pull up a piece of curb. Free. 78th Street Play Street at 34th Avenue, Jackson Heights, www.queensworldfilmfestival.com

July 19, History Roundtable Astoria Stars, 1 pm. Learn about a variety of world known entertainers – including Christopher Walken, Ethel Merman, Perry Cuomo, Tony Bennett, and Dee Snider – who lived in Astoria. Plus, Dee Anne Gorman, a NYC-based vocalist/poet, performs some of this group’s most famous songs. $5. Greater Astoria Historical Society, Quinn Building, 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor, LIC, www.astorialic.org

July 19, Freestyle Reunion IV, 9 pm. Live performances by TKA, Judy Torres, Sugar Hill Gang, Soave, C&C Music Factory, Alisha, CNR of Trilogy, and more. Doors open at 8 pm. $25-$125. Resorts World Casino New York City, 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., Jamaica, www.rwnewyork.com

July 19, Unchain Your Inner Improviser, noon to 1:30 pm. Queens World Film Festival Executive Director Katha Cato leads a workshop on techniques. Free. Chain Theatre, 21-28 45th Rd., LIC, www.chain-theatre.org

July 19, Rory O’Shea Was Here, 7:30 pm. It’s Irish movie night with a short comedy added to the mix. $8-$11. New York Irish Center, 10-40 Jackson Ave., LIC, www.newyorkirishcenter.org

July 20, The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival NY, noon to 8 pm. New York’s biggest Caribbean food festival attracts about 20,000 people, including a mix of professional chefs and home cooks, eager taste-testers, Reggae and Soca lovers and dance aficionados. $30 in advance/$40 at the gate. Roy Wilkins Park, 177-01 Baisley Blvd., Jamaica, www.jerkfestivalny.com

July 20, Queens Family Day: Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Wynton Marsalis, Rashida Bumbray, Michael Mossman, and Copland Jazz, 4 pm to 7 pm. Interactive music and dance workshops with the best of the best. Free. Queensbridge Park, vicinity of Vernon Boulevard, 41st Avenue and the East River, www.nycgovparks.org

July 20, Help Fight Drug Abuse 5K Run/Walk, 9 am. The Federation of Italian American Organizations of Queens hosts its annual run/walk to help fight drug abuse. Race starts and ends at Fiao Soccer Field, 20th Avenue and 33rd Street, Astoria. $15-$25, (718) 204-2444, www.italianfederation.com

July 20, All-Queens Family Entertainment Fest, 1 pm. The Ray Blue Band plays with performances from dancers and singers from African-American, Chinese, Latin, Korean, and South Asian traditions. Free. Kissena Corridor Park, Main Street and Elder Avenue, Flushing

July 20, Health and Wellness Fair, 9 am to 4 pm. Hosted by the Queens Borough President’s Office in conjunction with Jamaica Hospital, HealthFirst and MetroPlus, this event includes bone marrow registry, stress testing, senior services, health screenings and giveaways. Free. 83-09 157th Ave., Howard Beach

July 21, Geraldine Ferraro: Paving the Way, 7 pm. To commemorate the 30th anniversary of Geraldine Ferraro’s vice presidential nomination on the Democratic ticket in 1984, St. John’s University hosts a panel discussion and screening of a documentary that her daughter directed and produced. Free. SJU D’Angelo Center, 80-00 Utopia Pkwy., Jamaica, www.stjohns.edu

July 21, Family Movies in the Park: Madea’s Family Reunion, 8:22 pm. Actor and playwright Tyler Perry returns as Madea, a brash but loving African-American grandmother with her own way of doing things, in this screen adaptation of his popular stage comedy. Madea finds herself dealing with a handful of family crises the same weekend that she’s planned a massive family reunion. Free. Cambria Playground/Frederick Cabbell Park, Francis Lewis Boulevard at 120th Avenue, Jamaica, www.abetterjamaica.org

July 22, Live at the Gantries: Dahka Band, 7 pm. Dahka Band plays world music as part of Live at the Gantries, a series of outdoor performances featuring Queens-based musicians. Free. Gantry Plaza State Park, vicinity of 49th and 50th avenues along the East River, www.liveatthegantries.com

July 23, Shakespeare in the Park, 7:30 pm. The Hip to Hip Theatre Company opens its eighth season with Cymbeline, a romantic fairy tale. An interactive workshop, Kids & the Classics, starts 30 minutes before the show. Free. In the vicinity of the Unisphere, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, www.hiptohip.org

July 23, Water Festival, 11 am to 1 pm. Water inflatables, bouncy houses, cotton candy, popcorn, and giveaways. Free. Beach 108th Street and Boardwalk, Rockaway Beach, www.nycgovparks.org

The “It’s In Queens” column is produced by the Queens Tourism Council with the hope that readers will enjoy the borough’s wonderful attractions. More info at www.itsinqueens.com.

Federation of Italian American Organizations of Queens Present: Italian Nights 2014

             Starting  July 16th to August 27th, 2014 Wednesdays, 7:00 pm to 9:30 pm


Wednesday, July 16th (held at)
St. Joseph Church 43rd Street (Between 30th Ave & 28th Ave.) Astoria
ANDREA & FRIENDS – SINGING POPULAR ITALIAN SONGS FROM THE 50’S, 60’S & 70’S
Presented by: Astoria Italia Soccer Club & Societa San Michele di Senerchia

Wednesday, July 23RD      (held at)
St. Joseph Church 43rd Street (Between 30th Ave. & 28th Ave.) Astoria
TONY PASQUARIELLO – DANCE UNDER THE STARS TO THE OLD TIME ITALIAN FAVORITES
Presented by: Circolo di Calabrito

Wednesday, July 30th    (held at)
St. Joseph Church 43rd Street (Between 30th Ave & 28th Ave.) Astoria
EXTASY’S – MARTY HRONCICH & Co. songs and music are flavored with Old Italian favorites from the Istria & Kvarner region.Guaranteed to sing along and dance all evening.
Presented by: San Antonio Abate di Cstrofilippo

Wednesday, August 6th  (held at)
Athens Square Park – 30th Ave & 30th Street, Astoria
THE INOCULATED CANARIES BAND
YOUTH NIGHT - ROCK MUSIC
Presented by: BORGETTO CULTURAL ASSOC.

Wednesday, August 13th (held at)
Athens Square Park
SIMONA ROSA & GUITAR PALYER – a night of Old Italian favorites jazzed up
Presented by: Italian-American Women Center

Monday, August 18th (held at)
St. Lukes Parking Lot  - 16-34 Clintonville Street, Whitestone, New York 11357
FILIPPO & Francesca (Lead singer from Armonia) amazing voice will entertain you with old Italian-American favorites for dancing and singing along.
Presented by: BORGETTO CULTURAL ASSOC.

Wednesday, August 20th (held at)
Athens Square Park
TINO “LIVE ENTERTAINMENT” singing old Italian favorites from the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s
Presented by: PALO DEL COLLE

Wednesday, August 27th (held at)
Athens Square Park
EXTASY’S – MARTY HRONCICH Songs and Music of Istria Region.  Passionate singers and entertainers with a dedicated following.
Presented by: ISTRIA SPORT CLUB


These shows are made possible with funding from : Con Edison, Basil Brick Oven Pizza and Attorneys at Law: Iannece & Calavacca Of Bayside

For more information

Federation of Italian American
Organizations of Queens, Inc.
20-12  21st Ave., Astoria, NY 11105
(718) 204-2444  ~  (FAX) 204-9145
Email: fiao@juno.com
http://www.italianfederation.com/
NO RAIN DATES
For verification please call 718-204-2444

GREEN ACRES MALL ANNOUNCES NEW STORE OPENINGS

 
Six New Retailers to Debut Early This Year

Media Contact:  Amaka Oweazim, Marketing Manager, Green Acres Mall, 516-561-7360

VALLEY STREAM, NY ― July 10, 2014 ― Green Acres Mall today announced the opening of a crop of new stores and restaurants, including: Justice, Panera Bread, Chipotle, Haagen-Dazs, Starbucks and Journeys Kids. Justice is already open and Starbuck’s, Journey Kidz, and Haagen Dazs will open this fall.

“These new additions tell us that we are truly connecting with our urban and suburban shoppers in this dynamic part of New York,” said Amaka Oweazim, Marketing Manager, Green Acres Mall.   “With over 1.8 million square feet of shopping and dining, Green Acres Mall is a popular destination and a great place to shop, dine and be entertained.”

The  new retailers include:
• Justice opened in April offering the hottest fashions and accessories for the “Tween” girl including the latest trends in clothing, swimwear, accessories and fun items for girls 5-14, all at a great value for Mom.
• Panera Bread will open in 4,200 square feet and will offer its usual perks of free WiFi and cozy nooks for unwinding as well as freshly baked bagels, breads and pastries, handcrafted sandwiches and paninis, pastas, soups and salads.
• Chipotle will open in a little over 2,100 square feet and offer guests fresh ingredients in a refined fast food experience.
• Haagen- Dazs, known for its simple and pure ingredients will open in 300 square feet and offer the best ice cream, sorbet and frozen yogurt.
• Starbucks will open in 288 square feet and offer signature roasts and light bites in a kiosk setting.
• Journeys Kids will open in a little over 2,000 square feet and offer the hottest brands and latest styles of athletic sneakers, boots, and sandals for young boys and girls.

Green Acres Mall has been serving southeast Queens and southwest Nassau County for more than 50 years. The regional mall is home to Macy’s, Sears, JCPenney and dozens of popular specialty stores and restaurants, including American Eagle, Aeropostale, Express, Forever 21, The Children’s Place, Old Navy, Applebee’s, Olive Garden and much more.

For up-to-the-moment information, like us on Facebook or check out our website http://www.greenacresmallonline.com

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Green Acres Mall is owned and operated by Macerich (NYSE:MAC), which is an S&P 500 company. Macerich is a fully integrated self-managed and self-administered real estate investment trust, which focuses on the acquisition, leasing, management, development and redevelopment of regional malls throughout the United States.

Macerich currently owns 56 million square feet of real estate consisting primarily of interests in 52 regional shopping centers. Macerich specializes in successful retail properties in many of the country’s most attractive, densely populated markets with significant presence in California, Arizona, Chicago and the Greater New York Metro area. Additional information about Macerich can be obtained from the Company’s website at www.macerich.com.
   

2014 US OPEN job fair July 9th and July 10th

The US Open is the 4th and final major championship in the sport of tennis. It consistently has sellout crowds and is a huge economic boon for New York City and Queens especially. Queens residents will have an opportunity to work at the open by attending the 2014 job fair taking place on Wednesday July 9th at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

For more information on the USTA and the different programs they have check out http://www.usta.com

Cohen’s Fashion Optical gets social with guys during #JULYGUY

(Garden City, NY) July 7, 2014 – This July, guys get a chance to get social with Cohen’s Fashion Optical.

Cohen’s is focusing on men’s fashion and style all month through a new social media promotion; The #MyCohens #JulyGuy Style Contest.  An interactive social media contest featuring style posts, fashion tips and  unique fashion inspired customer images, the contest prompts viewers to send in a selfie that showcases your individual summer style featuring eyewear or sunwear. Each week one lucky winner can win a pair of Tom Ford sunnies from the Tom Ford Eyewear collection.

“Our continued goal to curate what’s current for our viewers continues this month with #JulyGuy” says Cohen’s Chief Marketing Officer Sheila Haile. “Cohen’s is dedicated to bringing relevant eyewear and style content to its viewers. #JulyGuy is a great way to showcase your style, learn tips from experts AND get a chance to win a hot pair of suns!” 

Be a part of our summer guy style focus, visit us at www.facebook.com/cohensoptical. To find a store visit www.CohensFashionOptical.com

#MyCohens & #JulyGuy 

ABOUT COHEN’S FASHION OPTICAL

Over eighty years ago, our founder, Jack Cohen, pioneered a new philosophy in the retail eyewear business. His vision was everyone who needed prescription eyeglasses wanted to look better, see better, and feel better about themselves. 

In 1927, Cohen’s became the only fashion eyewear retail location to be found in New York. Cohen’s Fashion Optical quickly became a New York City retail landmark. Today, with over 130 franchise stores in the US and Puerto Rico, Cohen’s is one of the top ten optical retailers in the country and one of the longest operating optical franchise companies in the country. 

Cohens Fashion Optical is headquartered in Garden City, New York. To learn how to become a franchisee visit  www.cohensfashionoptical.com

To discuss PR, partnerships or social opportunities please contact sheilah@cohens.bz.  

It's in Queens : July 10-16th

Met Opera on the west side, the Lincoln Center symphony orchestra on the east. Such is the upcoming week, which also features the best Beatles cover band, two great R&B acts, ballroom dancing, German classics, and live salsa. Other options include a three-hour tea break, e-waste recycling, yoga, sewing, and a photo exhibit on the Whitestone Bridge.

Here’s the rundown:

July 10, Metropolitan Opera Recital, 7 pm. Produced in association with SummerStage and NYC Parks, this concert features three talented young Met singers performing arias and duets from a variety of operas. Free. Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., LIC, www.socratessculpturepark.org

July 10, New York Philharmonic in the Park, 8 pm. The country’s oldest symphony orchestra leaves Lincoln Center to offer an outdoor concert of priceless music. Free. Cunningham Park, 193rd Street near Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows, www.nyphil.org

July 10, Strawberry Fields, 7:30 pm. The Central Astoria Local Development Corporation’s 2014 Waterfront Concert Series kicks off with the ultimate Beatles tribute band. Free. Astoria Park Great Lawn, Shore Boulevard between the Hell Gate Bridge and Astoria Pool, www.centralastoria.org

July 11, Finding Samuel Lowe: From Harlem to China, 7 pm. Screening of movie about three successful siblings who discover their heritage by searching for clues about their long-lost Chinese grandfather, Samuel Lowe. The siblings -- including retired NBC Universal executive Paula Williams Madison who will attend the event -- were raised in Harlem by their Chinese-Jamaican mother. Their ancestral journey takes them from Toronto to Jamaica to China, and to an emotional and unforgettable family reunion. www.movingimage.us

July 11, Yoga in the Garden, 7 pm. Bring a mat for a series of poses with Yumcha Yoga Studio during a beautiful sunset, followed by kirtan singing from the Indian bhakti devotional tradition. Suitable for all age and talent levels. $5 suggested admission. Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd., www.flushingtownhall.org

July 11, An Evening of Ballroom Dancing, 8 pm. Professionals teach new and classic ballroom dances. $15. Resorts World Casino NYC, 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., Jamaica, www.rwnewyork.com

July 12, Hands-on History: Cup of Tea, noon to 3 pm. There’s nothing like an afternoon tea. Check out Eliza Gracie King’s tea set and get inspired to decorate your own cup. Read a story about tea time. Free. King Manor Museum, 150-3 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica, www.kingmanor.org

July 13, Soul Party: Old School R&B, 2 pm. Flushing Town Hall’s free summer concerts series kicks off with an R&B concert with a classic hit list that includes the likes of The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Junior Walker & the All Stars, Bill Withers, and Johnnie Taylor performed by groove-heavy Soul Party. Dance lessons at 1 pm. FTH, 137-35 Northern Blvd., www.flushingtownhall.org

July 13, Summertime Electronic Waste Event, 10 am to 4 pm. Dispose of unwanted or broken gadgets in an environmentally friendly way. Free. Queens Botanical Garden, 43-50 St., Flushing, www.queensbotanical.org

July 13, The Bridge and the Fair. A photo exhibition organized by the Queens Historical Society celebrating the 75^th anniversary of the Whitestone Bridge’s opening. This span, as well as the Whitestone Expressway and Flushing Bridge, brought visitors directly and quickly to the 1939 World Fair. Free. Queens Public Library, Whitestone Branch. 151-10 14th Rd

July 13, Taste of Germany, 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm. Enjoy the music, food and culture of Germany and check out the new exhibition, Remembering Yesterday: Queens and Its World’s Fairs, which takes a look at the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs. $15. Queens Historical Society, Kingsland Homestead, Weeping Beech Park, 143-35 37^th Ave., Flushing, www.queenshistoricalsociety.org

July 13, Make It: Sew Cool, 1:30 pm to 5 pm. Learn to sew a sunglass case. Attendees learn how to measure and cut fabric, sew a few different hand stitches, and attach buttons, straps, and other trimmings. Workshops are for children ages 6 and older. $5 per parent/child pair, and register on the day of the event in the admissions area. New York Hall of Science, www.nysci.org

July 15, Queensbridge Summer Concert Series, 7 pm. Ismael Miranda and his band, Orquesta Revelación, recorded “Así se compone un son,” which fueled the 1970s salsa craze. Now known as "El Niño Bonito de la Salsa," Miranda and his band perform the opening act in this series. Free. Queensbridge Park, vicinity of Vernon Boulevard, 41^st Avenue and the East River, Long Island City, www.nycgovparks.org

July 16, Dishcrawl, 7 pm. A delicious dining adventure in Long Island City with chefs of three restaurants. $45, drinks may be purchased separately. For more info, contact Greta Rushion at 917-975-2887 or gretar@dishcrawl.com

July 16, J. Holiday, 7 pm. Laid-back vocalist J. Holiday brings an unexpected edge to R&B music. He bears a street sensibility and bravado normally reserved for hip-hop, but remains inspired by groups such as Boyz II Men and Jodeci. Free. Queensbridge Park, vicinity of Vernon Boulevard, 41^st Avenue and the East River, Long Island City, www.nycgovparks.org

The “It’s In Queens” column is produced by the Queens Tourism Council with the hope that readers will enjoy the borough’s wonderful attractions. More info at www.itsinqueens.com.