Southeast Queens Scoop Blog - Streetwise Digital News cover Southeast Queens and Jamaica NY: 2026

Monday, August 10, 2026

Get The Scoop On Why Blacks Have A Cure for Sickle Cell Anemia But Few Can Access it

Help Us To continue to inform and empower our community please Donate. Get The Scoop Weekly On the Global Black Community and Southeast Queens, NY. Subscribe to Our Mailing List. Receive the Latest Events, News, Jobs, and Top Community Economic Development Stories Like this one Click Here | Reach up to 1.3 million people Promote

-------

Sickle Cell's Quiet Revolution: A Cure Exists - So Why Can't Black America Access It?

By AiSha | Digital Green Book and Kamau Austin for Southeast Queens Scoop

According to Pharmacy Times, "In a historic medical breakthrough, 21-year-old Sebastien Beauzile from Laurelton, Long Island (Queens, NYC) , has become the first New Yorker to be cured of sickle cell anemia. This life-changing transformation was made possible through Lyfgenia (in Spring 2025) , a pioneering gene therapy that corrects the genetic defect responsible for the disease. Sebastien's journey offers hope to countless others battling this debilitating condition."

Pharmacy Times also added "Sebastien's battle with sickle cell anemia began at just four months old, leading to years of excruciating pain and frequent hospitalizations. Traditional treatments provided little relief, making daily life a constant struggle. However, with the advent of Lyfgenia, a therapy that introduces healthy genes into stem cells, Sebastien's life has been transformed. He now enjoys activities previously hindered by his condition, such as working out, traveling, and pursuing his education.

The success of this treatment not only marks a personal victory for Sebastien but also signifies a monumental advancement in medical science. By effectively curing sickle cell anemia without the need for bone marrow transplants, Lyfgenia paves the way for new therapeutic approaches to genetic disorders. This breakthrough offers renewed hope to millions affected by similar conditions worldwide."

Sebastien and Cohen Children's Medical Center weighed in "A new birthday, a new beginning! After living with sickle cell anemia for over two decades, Sebastien is now disease-free thanks to Lyfgenia — a groundbreaking genetic treatment.

“Growing up with sickle cell, it’s kind of been over all my life,” Sebastien said. “So now that I’m cured, I’d say it’s my new birthday because now nothing’s going to stop me.”

Sebastien was the first patient in New York to receive this life-changing therapy, and with the generous $100,000 donation from civil rights attorney Ben Crump, we will continue advancing sickle cell care for more patients. We are so happy to celebrate Sebastien’s incredible journey and the future of sickle cell treatment!

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens the Weekend of August 7th

-------

Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens the Weekend of August 7th

Renowned Jamaican Chef
Charlotte Billings Brings
Authenic Island Cuisine to
Queens Village for 3rd Year on

August 8th 2026

Tap Here for More Info

Tap Here To Enjoy Jamaican Food & Culture

Get The Scoop On The Renowned Jamaican Chef Bringing Authenic Island Cuisine to Queens Village

-------

Renowned Jamaican Chef
Charlotte Billings Brings
Authenic Island Cuisine to
Queens Village for 3rd Year

By The Southeast Queens Scoop

The irresistible aromas of authentic Jamaican cooking will once again fill the air in Queens Village, as renowned Jamaican chef Charlotte Billings brings her passion for traditional island cuisine to the Third Annual Nadz Bring Old Time Sinting Jamaican Nyamings on Saturday, August 8, in Queens Village.

For Billings, cooking is far more than preparing delicious meals. It is a ministry of love, resilience, and cultural pride that has taken her from the hills of Jamaica to communities across the United States, where she continues sharing the rich culinary traditions of her homeland one plate at a time.

A Journey of Faith, Perseverance, and Purpose

Charlotte Billings' story is one of determination in the face of adversity.

Growing up in Jamaica, Billings endured discouragement from those who repeatedly told her she would never succeed. Rather than allowing those voices to define her future, she chose to chart her own path. During a difficult period in her life, she discovered a passion that would transform everything—cooking.

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens July 31st - August 2nd Weekend

-------

Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens July 31st - August 2nd Weekend

Tap In Here To Visit The Jamaica Jams Website

Get The Scoop Update From Deadly Family Shooting Tragedy That Rocked Far Rockaway

-------

Family Tragedy Ends in
Deadly Police Standoff and
House Fire in Far Rockaway

FAR ROCKAWAY, QUEENS — A heartbreaking act of family violence has left two women dead, a home destroyed by fire, and an entire Far Rockaway neighborhood searching for answers after a chaotic police standoff Saturday afternoon.

According to the NYPD, officers responded just before noon to a home on Ocean Crest Boulevard near Beach 25th Street after receiving a frantic 911 call from the suspect's wife. She reportedly told dispatchers that her husband, 33-year-old Kegan Thomas, was armed, had a history of mental illness, and repeatedly said he had "killed them."

When officers arrived, the woman told them she had heard gunshots, entered a bedroom, and saw a body lying on a bed before fleeing the house and warning police that her husband was armed with a shotgun.

"The caller states that her husband is armed and had a history of mental illness and he 'killed them, killed them,'" NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh said during a news briefing.

Police established a perimeter and requested the Emergency Service Unit (ESU), while attempting unsuccessfully to contact Thomas inside the home. As ESU officers prepared to enter the residence, a powerful explosion erupted from inside the house.

Within seconds, investigators said Thomas emerged wearing a tactical vest and carrying a shotgun.

According to police, officers repeatedly ordered him to drop the weapon.

"Officers issued numerous verbal commands... After failing to comply with repeated commands... officers discharged their weapons," Assistant Chief McIntosh said.

Thomas was struck by police gunfire and transported to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition, according to authorities.

Queens Mourns a Hometown Hero: Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad Remembered for a Life of Service and Sacrifice

-------

Queens Mourns a Hometown Hero:
Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad Remembered
for a Life of Service and Sacrifice

By Kamau Austin | Southeast Queens Scoop

The Southeast Queens community is mourning the loss of one of its own.

According to the U.S. Army and Pentagon officials, Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad, 28, of Ozone Park, Queens, was killed during an Iranian missile and drone attack on Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan on July 17 while serving overseas with the 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, based in Germany. Military officials later confirmed her death after she was initially listed as missing following the attack.

Her death has left a profound impact not only on her family but throughout Queens, where neighbors, elected officials, veterans, and fellow service members have come together to honor the young soldier whose life was defined by courage, compassion, and service.

A Queens Daughter Who Chose to Serve

ABC7 New York reported that Rampersad was born in Trinidad and moved to the United States with her mother and sister when she was just two years old. She grew up in Ozone Park, attended P.S. 108 and Forest Hills High School, and later earned a degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College before pursuing the career she had dreamed about for years—joining the United States Army.

According to NY1, she enlisted in the Army in 2019 at age 21 after completing college, later serving assignments in Hawaii before being stationed in Germany. She re-enlisted last year, reflecting her continued commitment to military service.

Remembered as a Gentle Giant

Those who knew Sgt. Rampersad describe someone whose strength was matched only by her kindness.

NY1 reported that her mother, Carol Acevedo, described her daughter as a "gentle giant" who "stood up for those who couldn't fight for themselves" and "loved her family fiercely." Family members said she was active in church as a young girl, played the drums, excelled in track and field, and touched countless lives with her generosity and unwavering spirit.

The Guardian, citing friends and members of the military, reported that fellow soldiers remembered Rampersad as humble, selfless, and someone who always put others before herself. One friend recalled that she never sought recognition but simply wanted "to serve, protect others, and do her duty with courage and humility."

Queens Comes Together

In the days following confirmation of her death, the Ozone Park community rallied around the Rampersad family.

ABC7 New York reported that neighbors displayed American flags outside their homes and left porch lights on each evening as a tribute until Sgt. Rampersad's remains returned home. Community leaders also organized a public vigil to honor her memory and ensure her sacrifice would never be forgotten.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said the community should remember Angel not only for the way she died but for the remarkable life she lived—as a talented drummer, athlete, daughter, sister, wife, and proud American who volunteered to defend her adopted country. ABC7 also reported that Richards announced plans to pursue a permanent memorial in her honor, including the possible renaming of the street where her family lives.

NYS Senator James Sanders Jr. Gives Condolences For Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad A Fallen Soldier In War with Iran

-------

From Ozone Park to the Front Lines: Senator James Sanders Jr. Pays Tribute to Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad.

SOUTH OZONE PARK, NY — I am deeply saddened by the loss of U.S. Army Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad, a proud daughter of Ozone Park, Queens, who is believed to have been killed in action during an Iranian ballistic missile and drone attack in a war that many people disagree with, but we should not take it out on our soldiers. Anyone who disagree should focus on the commander in chief and his leading commanders

Sgt. Rampersad served with distinction in the 10th Army Air & Missile Defense Command, answering the call to defend our country with courage and honor.

When a soldier falls in my district, I feel especially touched because, as a veteran, I feel like a brother or sister has fallen. There is a bond among those of us who have worn the uniform that never leaves us. We understand the sacrifices, commitment, and willingness to place the mission above ourselves.

Choosing to serve your country is one of the bravest decisions anyone can make. When young men and women raise their right hand and take that oath, they are not thinking about sacrificing their lives. They are thinking first about their love of country, their commitment to protecting others, and their desire to serve something greater than themselves.

Today, I speak as a veteran, myself, and understand the sacrifice more than most. I salute and honor Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad for her extraordinary courage, dedication, and selfless service. Her sacrifice is a solemn reminder that the freedoms we enjoy are safeguarded every day by brave Americans willing to stand in harm's way on behalf of us all.

I know that when one service member is lost, an entire military family mourns. But beyond that, an entire community mourns. Sgt. Rampersad was more than a soldier—she was a daughter, a family member, a friend, a neighbor, and a source of pride for Queens.

To her family, friends, fellow soldiers, and everyone whose life she touched, I extend my deepest and most heartfelt condolences. No words can ease the pain of your loss, but please know that your grief is shared by an entire community that is forever grateful for Angel's service and sacrifice.

Military families also serve. They endure long deployments, constant uncertainty, and the hope that their loved one will safely return home. Today, our hearts are with Sgt. Rampersad's family as they bear this unimaginable burden with strength and dignity.

May we never forget Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad's courage, her patriotism, and her sacrifice. May her legacy inspire future generations to serve with honor, and may her memory forever be a blessing.

Today, I ask the residents of the 10th Senate District and all New Yorkers to keep Sgt. Rampersad's family in your prayers and to remember all the brave men and women in uniform who continue to protect our nation around the world.

May God bless Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad, may God comfort her loved ones, and may God continue to bless the United States of America.

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens July 24th Weekend

-------

Fun Events in
Southeast Queens July 24th Weekend

------------

Get The Scoop On New York City's Powerful New Advocate For Minority Entrepreneurs!

-------

The New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Stands To Be a Powerful New Advocate For Minority Entrepreneurs!

🚀 The New York City Minority Small Business Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

(NYCMSBCC) has announced its official upscale soft launch networking event.

Founded to dismantle structural barriers, bridge resource gaps, and provide direct municipal and state advocacy, the Chamber is building an equitable business ecosystem across all five boroughs.

Event Highlights:

Date: September 1, 2026

Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Location: Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse (Elmhurst, NY)

Focus: High-end networking, M/WBE compliance support, and corporate procurement pathways. certification assistance (such as M/WBE compliance), and direct access to contract bidding"

Inaugural membership drives are officially open.

Secure your seat at the table to scale your business effectively.

🔗 Register for the Launch Event: Tap or Click Here

🔗 Apply for Chamber Membership: Tap or Click Here

Get The Scoop On How The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce Will Celebrate Minority Enterprise Development Month 2026

-------

Month-Long Initiative Will Celebrate Minority-Owned Businesses, Economic Empowerment, Innovation, Leadership, and Regional Opportunity

Tap or Click Here for More Info

GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK — In case you missed it, Ann Dumay, Nassau County Director of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC), has announced the chamber’s 2026 Minority Enterprise Development Month initiative for minority entrepreneurs, professionals, community leaders, corporations, government agencies, and business-support organizations throughout the New York metropolitan area.

The 2026 celebration will recognize the accomplishments, resilience, innovation, and economic contributions of minority-owned businesses across Nassau County, Suffolk County, New York City, and the surrounding region.

This year’s theme is: “Building Legacy, Expanding Opportunity, and Advancing Minority Enterprise” Minority Enterprise Development Month will feature business education, networking, recognition programs, access-to-capital discussions, procurement information, leadership development, technical assistance, and opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with corporate, government, nonprofit, and community partners.

The first day of 2026 activities are scheduled for Thursday, October 8th, 2026 at the Town of Hempstead Pavillion One Washington Street, Hempstead, New York 11550. Time: 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.

To register for the first day of activities for Minority Enterprise Development Month Tap or Click on link here

Get The Scoop On How To Enjoy Historic Jamaican Food and Culture This Summer

-------

Eat & Chill Enjoying Historic
Jamaican Food and Culture In
Queens Village August 8th 2026

Nadz Bring Old Time Sinting Annual
Jamaican Nyamings Returns for
the Third Year with Authentic
Food, Games, Music, and
Community Fun

Queens Village, NY – Get ready for a true taste of Jamaica as Nadz Bring Old Time Sinting Annual Jamaican Nyamings returns for its third year on Saturday, August 8, from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. at 109-05 209th Street, Queens Village, NY 11412.

This exciting all-day event invites families, friends, and food lovers to come together for a memorable celebration of Jamaican culture, delicious cuisine, and good old-fashioned entertainment.

Guests will enjoy an authentic menu featuring Jamaican favorites, including:

jerk chicken
pot jerk pork
curry goat
escovitch fish
roast fish
mannish wata
mackerel rundown
festival and bammy
roast breadfruit
blue draws
gungo rice
cornmeal pudding
pepper shrimp and...
corn in coconut milk!

Plates are $40 each or two for $70, offering generous portions of traditional island flavors.

Cool down with a refreshing selection of Jamaican exotic juices, including:

sorrel
homemade lemonade
pineapple ginger
watermelon sizzle
Jamaica’s best rum punch
refreshing coconut water
fresh sugar cane and...
Red Stripe, all made to complement every meal.

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens July 17th Weekend

-------

Fun Events in
Southeast Queens July 17th Weekend

------------

------------

----------

Get The Scoop On How NYS AG Letitia James Has Joined A Coalition To Stop Cuts To School-based Mental Health Services.

-------

Attorney General James Sues Trump Administration for Trying to Slash Youth Mental Health Funding Again

After AG James Won Court Order Protecting School-Based Mental Health Grants, Trump Administration Attempts to Cut the Same Funding

Bipartisan Grant Programs Were Established After Parkland and Uvalde to Help Schools Hire Mental Health Professionals in Low-Income and Rural Communities

New York Attorney General Letitia James joined a coalition of 14 other attorneys general in suing the U.S. Department of Education and Secretary Linda McMahon for again attempting to unlawfully cut federal funding for school-based mental health services. The lawsuit challenges the administration’s latest effort to terminate grant programs that help schools hire mental health professionals, which were created by a bipartisan majority in Congress in response to the worsening youth mental health crisis and a series of tragic school shootings, including in Parkland, Florida and Uvalde, Texas.

In December 2025, Attorney General James and the coalition secured a permanent injunction blocking the administration’s attempt to unlawfully end these grants. Now, the Education Department is attempting to evade that court order by implementing the very same policy to eliminate these grants using a different method. Attorney General James and the coalition are asking the court to preliminarily and permanently stop the administration from cutting off this critical funding and protect the youth mental health infrastructure schools have built under these programs.

“The first time this administration tried to take mental health services away from children, we beat them in court,” said Attorney General James. “Now they are trying to carry out the same illegal scheme and abandon students who need support. We already stopped them once, and we are prepared to do it again. My office will keep fighting to protect our children’s mental health and ensure schools have the resources to hire counselors, social workers, and psychologists in communities that need them most.”

Get the Scoop On NYS Senator James Sanders' Bill to Protect Businesses from Predatory Lending and His views on the 2026-2027 Budget

-------

Senator James Sanders Jr. Announces Senate Passage of Bill S.3695 to Protect Small Businesses from Predatory Lending

Albany, NY — Senator James Sanders Jr. proudly announces the Senate passage of S.3695, a critical consumer‑protection bill that prohibits the use of confessions of judgment in contracts for financial products or services. This legislation represents a major step forward in safeguarding New York’s small businesses from predatory lenders who have long exploited this legal loophole.

A confession of judgment allows a lender to obtain a court judgment against a borrower without ever filing a lawsuit. For years, unscrupulous lenders have used this tactic to seize assets, drain bank accounts, and financially devastate tens of thousands of small businesses — including many that never missed a payment.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities, and they deserve protection from predatory practices that threaten their survival,” said Senator James Sanders Jr. “Confessions of judgment have been weaponized against hardworking entrepreneurs. With S.3695, we are closing the door on this abuse once and for all.”

Under S.3695, lenders will no longer be permitted to include confessions of judgment in any contract or agreement for a financial product or service. This ensures that disputes must go through proper legal channels, giving small businesses the due process they deserve.

The bill now heads to the Assembly for consideration.

“Today’s vote is a victory for fairness, transparency, and economic justice,” Senator Sanders added. “We will continue fighting to ensure that every small business in New York has a fair chance to grow and thrive.”

For more information, please contact the Office of Senator James Sanders Jr.

Office of Senator James Sanders Jr.

Phone: (718) 523-3069

Get The Scoop On The 2026 Minority Enterprise Development Month for the New York Metropolitan Area

-------

ICYMI: LIAACC Nassau County Director Announces 2026 Minority Enterprise Development Month for the New York Metropolitan Area

Month-Long Initiative Will Celebrate Minority-Owned Businesses, Economic Empowerment, Innovation, Leadership, and Regional Opportunity

GARDEN CITY, NEW YORK — In case you missed it, Ann Dumay, Nassau County Director of the Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce, Inc. (LIAACC), has announced the chamber’s 2026 Minority Enterprise Development Month initiative for minority entrepreneurs, professionals, community leaders, corporations, government agencies, and business-support organizations throughout the New York metropolitan area.

This year’s theme is: “Building Legacy, Expanding Opportunity, and Advancing Minority Enterprise”

Minority Enterprise Development Month will feature business education, networking, recognition programs, access-to-capital discussions, procurement information, leadership development, technical assistance, and opportunities for entrepreneurs to connect with corporate, government, nonprofit, and community partners.

Get The Scoop On Fun Events in Southeast Queens July 4th Weekend

-------

Fun Events in
Southeast Queens July 4th Weekend

------------

Get The Scoop On Fun Events in Southeast Queens This Weekend 6-27-2026

-------

Fun Events in Southeast Queens
This Weekend

------------

-----------

------------

Pages

Monday, August 10, 2026

Get The Scoop On Why Blacks Have A Cure for Sickle Cell Anemia But Few Can Access it

Thursday, August 6, 2026

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens the Weekend of August 7th

Tuesday, August 4, 2026

Get The Scoop On The Renowned Jamaican Chef Bringing Authenic Island Cuisine to Queens Village

Friday, July 31, 2026

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens July 31st - August 2nd Weekend

Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Get The Scoop Update From Deadly Family Shooting Tragedy That Rocked Far Rockaway

Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Queens Mourns a Hometown Hero: Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad Remembered for a Life of Service and Sacrifice

Monday, July 27, 2026

NYS Senator James Sanders Jr. Gives Condolences For Sgt. Angel Sarah Rampersad A Fallen Soldier In War with Iran

Friday, July 24, 2026

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens July 24th Weekend

Monday, July 20, 2026

Get The Scoop On New York City's Powerful New Advocate For Minority Entrepreneurs!

Saturday, July 18, 2026

Get The Scoop On How The Long Island African American Chamber of Commerce Will Celebrate Minority Enterprise Development Month 2026

Get The Scoop On How To Enjoy Historic Jamaican Food and Culture This Summer

Friday, July 17, 2026

Get The Scoop On Fun and Empowering Events in Southeast Queens July 17th Weekend

Wednesday, July 15, 2026

Get The Scoop On How NYS AG Letitia James Has Joined A Coalition To Stop Cuts To School-based Mental Health Services.

Wednesday, July 8, 2026

Get the Scoop On NYS Senator James Sanders' Bill to Protect Businesses from Predatory Lending and His views on the 2026-2027 Budget

Monday, July 6, 2026

Get The Scoop On The 2026 Minority Enterprise Development Month for the New York Metropolitan Area

Saturday, July 4, 2026

Get The Scoop On Fun Events in Southeast Queens July 4th Weekend

Saturday, June 27, 2026

Get The Scoop On Fun Events in Southeast Queens This Weekend 6-27-2026