Unsung Bay Ridge: Singing his praises

NEIGHBORS WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Our unsung heroes

My person of the week is a well-known entertainer and a lifelong resident of Bay Ridge, whose recognition is long overdue, Jeff Samaha, founded the Samaha Singers almost 50 years ago. Since then he has dedicated much of his time and resources in entertaining us at a variety of locations.

Jeff was raised on Ridge Boulevard, in St. Mary’s parish, and has not ceased in bringing Broadway and other cultural presentations those who cannot easily go to Manhattan. We can enjoy premier presentations at our street festivals and also at indoor venues.

For example, no one could deny the high production standard of “Mary Poppins,” which was recently presented by Jeff Samaha Theatre Productions at the High School of Communication, Arts and Technology, 67th Street and Fourth Avenue.

It was Jeff’s lifelong dream to start a chorus in the Bay Ridge community. The 55 singers do concerts to raise funds for charity, as well as for entertainment. Together with the Ridge Chorale Youth Theatre, and the Samaha Vocal Ensemble & Orchestra, the group has produced such classics as “West Side Story,” “Ragtime,” “Les Miserables” and “Smokey Joe’s Café.”

Jeff’s contribution to the cultural richness of Bay Ridge cannot be overestimated. We are so thankful that he is our neighbor, for he has truly made a difference.

COMMUNITY NEWS

It is the happiest season for children and children at heart. Band Master Brian Worsdale once again conducts the very popular Christmas Concert on December 13, at 7 p.m. at St. Patrick’s Church, 97th Street and Fourth Avenue. The concert is free and the quality of this concert is top notch. We hope to see you there.

Our Celebration of Lights continue with an impressive tree lighting ceremony at the St. Athanasius Church grounds. The ceremony is on December 13, from 6 p.m. Parishioners and onlookers will gather at Bay Parkway and 61st Street to see the lights go on from dozens of trees that cover a two block radius.

UNSUNG FOLK REMEDIES: Soft Tissue Injury

My wife swears by castor oil for quickly healing the injury to her toes after a folding table fell on them last week. She soaked two round cotton pads with the castor oil, taped them to the two injured toes and went to sleep. The next evening, she was dancing in heels, on those toes, without discomfort.

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