Unsung Bay Ridge: Man of many hats

NEIGHBORS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Our unsung heroes

This week I have chosen to highlight the community service of Paul Knudsen, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran Church for the past 30 years. Pastor Paul wears many hats, including overseer of the Lutheran Elementary School, Bay Ridge, the Bay Ridge Center for Older Adults, and the Meals on Wheels program that delivers 650 hot meals, seven days per week, to homebound seniors.

Pastor Paul leads the annual Meals on Wheels Walk, which helps the budget of the program. After the successful walk, volunteers are treated to Pastor Paul’s barbecue skills.

In spite of his busy schedule, Pastor Paul is always ready to help in community projects. He assisted his neighbor, the St. Nicholas Home, on its own fundraising projects by lending his time and equipment during its Night at the Races. He is supported by his children Jessica and Justin, who volunteer their services for church functions. We are blessed to have the community services of this energetic spiritual leader.

COMMUNITY NEWS

A very special happy birthday to a true treasure of Bay Ridge — Jane Kelly, who is proud to announce that she is 94 years old and still very active in community service. When I asked Jane the secret to her longevity, she credited keeping busy as a big factor in her longevity. May you enjoy many more healthy ones.

Bay Ridge entertainer Martin McQuade will be doing a special show celebrating the 100th birthday of the Chairman of the Board, Frank Sinatra. This tribute will take place at Hunters Steak House on October 22, (94th Street and Fourth Avenue) from 7 p.m. Don’t miss it.

UNSUNG FOLK REMEDIES: Smoking

I know that there are many people who would like to quit smoking but find the habit very ingrained in mind and body. I thought I would share the experience of a woman who discovered by chance that whenever she ate an apple and orange for her break, the cigarette tasted disgusting and she only smoked very little of it before discarding. Eventually, she quit, as the enjoyment of the cigarette got less. Who knows what the apple and orange did, but if other methods have failed, it is worth a try.

Please consult your doctor if you have any health concerns, or are on any medication.