UsaNewsOnline.Com Desk, Laurelton, N.Y. – On Friday, November 15, Council Member Richards and local leaders celebrated the denial of a liquor store application located at 224-01 141st Avenue. Richards’ office sent a letter on October 1 calling on the New York State Liquor Authority to deny the Talware Wine and Liquor’s license citing the location’s close proximity to two daycare facilities.

The rapid increase of retail liquor stores in Southeastern Queens has been damaging to the quality of life in our neighborhood. In response to community concerns and the letter, the State Liquor Authority denied the application on October 23.

This was made possible by the advocacy of local leaders such as Laurelton Academy Day Care Director and Founder Merna Hughes, Bishop Dorsey, Clive Williams of Community Board 13, Bob Glover of Federated Blocks of Laurelton, Price Olivier of Concerned Citizens of Laurelton, Fritz Casimir of Kickers Junior Soccer Team, PTA Board President Tameeka Richards and many others.

“Our communities deserve better than to be flooded with liquor stores so close to our local schools focused on empowering and preparing our youth for success,” said Council Member Donovan Richards. “A liquor store on every corner is not what is best for our neighborhood and we must not allow our quality of life to be dialed back. I’d like to thank all of the local leaders who made sure their concerns were heard and especially to the State Liquor Authority for responding to our community.” Press Release.