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Black inventors in AI: Shaping the Future of Technology Exhibition

BQE Admin on March 20, 2025

By: Courtney Kerr

Black History month has come to an end, but at the Black Inventors Museum they celebrate year round. Their latest exhibit, “Black Inventors in AI: Shaping the Future of Technology” ran between February 21-23 and February 28-March 2, 2025 at Brooklyn City Point. This multimedia presentation is a tribute to Black inventors and innovators internationally.

“The Black Inventors Exhibit is for everyone — all age groups and ethnicities,” said James Ince, the curator.  “It graciously complements all science and American history curricula, while promoting positive images in those who seek to learn about the discoveries and challenges of these great inventors.”

While the museum was founded 29 years ago in western Massachusetts, this is the first exhibit it has hosted in New York City. Their last weekend in the city, the exhibit also featured a book signing for Keith C. Holmes´ book, Black Inventors, Crafting Over 200 Years of Success as well as a children’s workshop.

The museum’s goal, as Ince describes it, is to celebrate history and inspire future generations — promoting racial understanding as well as providing a new motivation for learning. The exhibits reveal many interesting facts, and highlight the accomplishments of Black inventors in the fields of science, aerospace, communication, health care, agriculture, transportation and engineering. Over 175 inventions are represented in a collection which includes patents designs, personal letters, rare photographs and brief biographies of Black inventors. 

The exhibit featured inventors like Lonnie Johnson, the creator of the super soaker water gun, which has generated well over $200 million dollars in retail sales and continues to be a top seller. Elsewhere was Sarah Goode, the first Black woman to be granted a patent by the U.S Patent and Trademark Office for her invention the cabinet bed, in 1885. Another figure was Dr. Shirley-Ann Jackson, who was the first African-American woman to acquire a Ph.D. from the M.I.T and is the woman who made Caller ID and call waiting possible. Lastly, Emmet McHenry’s innovation and vision helped shape the internet’s infrastructure, which has paved the way for the growth of the digital economy and global connectivity we have today. 

While their recent run has ended, the Black Inventors Museum defines themselves as a “traveling museum,” meaning that the exhibit can still be booked for events across the United States and internationally. They are therefore available in a lot of places where this information wouldn’t be shared or taught normally. Their exhibits have been featured at educational conferences, cultural expos, professional conventions, and corporate diversity programs.

You can find all their information about upcoming events and exhibits on https://blackinventorsmuseum.com/lab

Grammar School Performs

BQE Admin on March 20, 2025

When a small catholic academy puts on a theatrical performance that includes 80 performers and few dozen crewmembers, it’s nothing short of a logistical marvel. The St. Stans, Maspeth, Performing Arts Players have been performing shows with students from the school for 15 years now, and the Beauty & The Beast performances this past weekend, which featured 80 cast members singing and dancing, did not disappoint.

More than 200 audience members came to each of the three performances and the performing arts program at this school continues to attract students interested in theatre, music and dance.

Flushing Town Hall Hosts Indo-Constellations: A Night of Music and Culture

BQE Admin on March 20, 2025

Courtesy: Roshni Samlal

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Flushing Town Hall will host “Indo-Constellations” on March 23, a one-night-only event that brings the dynamic sounds of Liberty Avenue to the stage. The show, curated by tabla artist and DJ Roshni Samlal, highlights Indo-Caribbean artists whose music reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Queens.

“Indo-Constellations” will feature performances by Ben Parag, Josanne Francis, Roshni Samlal, and Pallaví, also known as Fijiana, with music spanning Bollywood classics, jazz, chutney, hip-hop, and more. Samlal described the show as “very Queens” in the way it reflects the borough’s musical landscape, where Indo-Caribbean heritage and contemporary sounds naturally mix.

The festival, which runs from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., will also include a DJ set for dancing and vendors serving West Indian street food. Samlal, who moved from Trinidad to Richmond Hill and grew up surrounded by the vibrant Indo-Caribbean culture of Liberty Avenue, said the event is intended to be more than a concert. 

“We’re really going for the festival vibe, inviting people to come and hang. It’s not just one set and then a passive experience,” Samlal said. 

Raised in a family of Guyanese musical talent, Ben Parag is a New York native and fluent Hindi speaker who trained in classical music under the guidance of gurus Kinnar and Payal Seen. His talent took him to India, where he performed on the television show Dil Hai Hindustani, earning praise from Bollywood director Karan Johar and other renowned judges. Parag’s style blends Bollywood classics with chutney and tassa influences, creating a unique sound that appeals to diverse audiences while keeping his Caribbean roots close.

Josanne Francis, born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago, is an internationally acclaimed steelpan performer and music educator known for her delicate yet powerful playing style. Her music draws from traditional Calypso, Jazz, Indian, Funk, Rock, and Classical influences—an unconventional mix for her instrument. She has performed at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Strathmore Music Center, and has been featured at festivals across the U.S. and internationally. Francis is also the Executive Director of the Cultural Academy for Excellence, Inc., and runs her own educational steelpan program, Steel on Wheels.

Pallaví, known by her stage name Fijiana, embodies the multicultural landscape of Fiji and the Bay Area. Her eclectic sound combines jazz-influenced rap, modern pop, and Indo-Afro beats, reflecting her dual cultural identity. Pallaví’s music tackles political issues, spiritual experiences, and personal stories, all rooted in real emotions. Her work has been featured in Rolling Stone India, Vogue India, KQED, and Brown Girl Magazine, and her song “Identity” was an official selection at the South Asian Film Festival of America.

Samlal, a New York-based tabla player and DJ, has studied within the Farrukhabad, Benares, and Punjab gharanas of Indian classical percussion. She is a prolific teacher and performer, collaborating with traditional musicians like Pt. Krishna Bhatt, as well as contemporary ensembles such as In D Ensemble and Orakel. Samlal’s work also explores electronic production, using sound collages and poetry to address topics like post-colonial Caribbean identity and migration. As the curator and producer of the Ragini Festival, she spotlights innovative arts within the South Asian diaspora, focusing on Indo-Caribbean heritage.

The evening’s lineup will open with Ben Parag’s Bollywood-inspired set, followed by a special mash-up performance featuring steelpan, tassa, and tabla—highlighting the rich musical heritage of Trinidad. The event will culminate with Pallaví’s powerful blend of hip-hop, storytelling, and Indo-Fijian themes.

Flushing Town Hall’s collaboration with Samlal’s Ragini Festival marks the first time the event has been held at the venue, bringing together artists from the Indo-Caribbean diaspora in a celebration of identity and innovation.

“For South Asians in particular, a lot of them don’t realize that there’s a whole extension of South Asian culture that morphed and moved and preserved so much connection to the continent,” Samlal said. “What an act of resistance that is. And how we really progressed our identity too.”

Tickets for Indo-Constellations are available for $30 at flushingtownhall.org.

Maspeth Federal Savings Opens State-of-the-Art Tech Center

BQE Admin on March 20, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Maspeth Federal Savings took a step toward the future on March 12 with the unveiling of its new Tech Center at 55-31 69th St, Maspeth. The state-of-the-art facility, which aims to enhance the bank’s focus on innovation, cybersecurity, and community leadership, was presented during a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local officials, partners, and community members.

“This state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Maspeth is a testament to our unwavering commitment to innovation, cybersecurity, and community leadership,” said Thomas Rudzewick, President and CEO of Maspeth Federal Savings, during his speech.

Rudzewick, who was recently honored as Business Person of the Year by the Queens Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of adapting to a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence are no longer a futuristic concept. They’re an urgent priority,” he said. “This center represents our pledge to proactively address challenges that these technologies bring and harness their potential so that we are ensuring the financial safety and stability of our associations’ members and the communities that we serve.”

The new Tech Center houses talented minds from the bank’s information technology, cybersecurity, data science, and core banking departments, providing them with a collaborative workspace designed to promote innovative solutions and enhance the bank’s technological capabilities.

“Here, they’ll be able to collaborate and solve problems together face-to-face in a shared space because we at Maspeth Federal Savings believe that people are the answers. No matter how digital the universe becomes, our world will always revolve around the people that are living in it,” Rudzewick said.

The Tech Center is equipped with cutting-edge tools designed to strengthen security measures, including fraud prevention, rapid incident response, and enhanced risk management. According to Rudzewick, this investment is about more than just technological growth; it’s about community service.

“Most importantly, though, it’s about serving our community. We’re here to support the dreams and aspirations of our neighbors, providing them with the financial resources and guidance that they need to thrive,” he said.

Rudzewick also extended his gratitude to the bank’s board of directors, employees, elected officials, and various partners involved in the project. “Together, we’ve built something more than just a physical structure. We’ve built a beacon of innovation, security, and community right here in the center of Maspeth, our little town.”

The Tech Center’s unveiling marks the beginning of what Maspeth Federal Savings hopes will be a new era of technological advancement and community leadership. As Rudzewick noted, “This technology center will be a powerful reminder in years to come of what we can achieve when we embrace change and work together for a common goal.”

 

Woodhaven Kicks Off 190th Anniversary Celebration with Community Mixer

BQE Admin on March 13, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Woodhaven officially launched its 190th-anniversary celebration on Feb 27 with a special Community Mixer at the historic Oak Ridge in Forest Park. The event brought together local leaders from schools, churches, and civic organizations for an evening of networking, history, and discussion about the yearlong celebration ahead.

Hosted by Woodhaven Historian Ed Wendell and attended by representatives from All Nations Baptist Church, All Saints Episcopal Church, American Legion Post 118, American Legion Post 118 Auxiliary, Community Board 9, Emanuel United Church of Christ, Forest Park Trust, Leader-Observer, PS 254, PS 97, Richmond Hill Historical Society, School Sisters of Notre Dame Educational Center for Women, St. Thomas the Apostle, Unidad y Fe Lutheran Mission, Woodhaven Art Circle, Woodhaven Cultural & Historical Society, Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association, and WORKS Little League were in attendance.

The gathering also welcomed Sen. Joe Addabbo and representatives from Nydia Velazquez (Jonathan Betancourt), Jennifer Rajkumar (Anna Sargeant), and Joann Ariola (Phyllis Inserillo). While many were able to join, other groups such as PS 60, PS 254, Woodhaven Business Improvement District, Woodhaven Library, Geordie’s Joint, and Neir’s Tavern are also in touch with organizers to participate in future events.

Guests had the opportunity to tour the 120-year-old former golf clubhouse and explore the Museum of Woodhaven History before gathering to share ideas for upcoming festivities. The event set the stage for a larger community-wide celebration planned for Saturday, June 14 at Victory Field, marking both Woodhaven’s milestone anniversary and the 100th anniversary of the beloved local sports venue, which opened in 1925.

The June event, held in partnership with Councilmember Joann Ariola and the Forest Park Trust, will offer a full day of activities and celebrations. The festivities will begin with a 190th Anniversary Parade and ceremony at the track in Victory Field from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., which will include a special ceremony honoring Victory Field’s centennial. Following the parade, a Flag Day event sponsored by Councilmember Joann Ariola will be held from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on the cement softball field, featuring children’s activities and bounce houses.

At the same time, a vintage baseball game will take place on the big baseball field, where a Woodhaven team will face off against The New York Mutuals, dressed in 19th-century-style uniforms. After the game, children will have the opportunity to play a historic game called rounders, providing a fun and educational experience about the early days of baseball. Throughout the day, the Woodhaven Art Circle will host the Woodhaven Art Market along the road through Forest Park adjacent to the track.

Organizers encourage residents and community groups to get involved as planning continues. For more information on the upcoming event and ways to contribute, please email projectwoodhaven@gmail.com.

Community & Creativity Shine at Malikah’s Iftar

BQE Admin on March 13, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria played host to a unifying Iftar event on March 7, organized by Malikah, a global grassroots collective dedicated to building safety, power, and healing for women and their communities. The event brought together community members, elected officials, and talented artists for an evening of reflection, empowerment, and connection during the holy month of Ramadan.

Founded by Rana Abdelhamid, Malikah has spent the past decade providing essential services such as self-defense training, economic empowerment, and organizing skills to more than 20,000 women in 20 cities around the world. With a focus on amplifying women’s power and promoting healing through community, Malikah has established itself as a transformative force for social justice and gender equality.

Abdelhamid, who opened the evening’s program, welcomed the audience with a warm bilingual speech in English and Arabic, emphasizing the importance of Ramadan as a time of unity, compassion, and community service. She reflected on Malikah’s recent achievements and ongoing efforts to empower women and marginalized communities. The event aimed to bring people together, fostering healing, sharing, and collective advocacy for justice.

Local representatives and political figures in attendance included New York City Comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander, Astoria Assemblyman and fellow mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, New York City Council Member Julie Won, and Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez.

Brad Lander, who has been involved with the “Iftar on the Go” program in previous years, spoke passionately about the importance of diversity and his commitment to advocating for MENA (Middle Eastern and North African) representation in city and state data. He recited verses from the Quran, expressing solidarity with the Muslim community, and called for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing Palestine-Israel conflict, highlighting the necessity of peace and justice worldwide.

Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, another mayoral hopeful, praised Malikah’s efforts in organizing such a diverse and welcoming event. He acknowledged the organization’s dedication to the Muslim and Middle Eastern communities, providing resources and a powerful voice. He outlined his vision for tackling the pressing issues facing New York City, from affordable housing to immigrant rights, pledging that his mayoral campaign would center the needs of the most vulnerable.

City Council Member Julie Won addressed the importance of providing halal and kosher meals in public spaces throughout New York City. She emphasized the significance of inclusivity in essential services, advocating for policies that ensure all communities feel welcome and respected.

Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez used her platform to speak about the ongoing fight to protect immigrant rights and promote justice. A staunch advocate for immigration reform, Velázquez vowed to continue her efforts in Washington to defend marginalized groups and push for policies that safeguard their rights and dignity.

The evening’s program featured moving Quran recitations by local residents, setting a serene and reflective atmosphere. As the call to prayer marked the end of the fast, attendees gathered to share a meal, reinforcing the night’s theme of unity and community-building.

Forest Hills Civic Leaders Gather for Annual State of the Community Meeting

BQE Admin on March 13, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Local civic leaders, elected officials, and community members convened at the West Side Tennis Club on Feb 24 for the annual State of Forest Hills Civic Community meeting, where they discussed key neighborhood issues, upcoming initiatives, and the importance of civic engagement.

Councilwoman Lynn Schulman opened the event, addressing local concerns and legislative updates. Michael Carlier, Director of Community Boards for Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, highlighted recent accomplishments and ongoing projects.

A representative from the 112th Precinct Community Council emphasized the importance of police-resident relationships through community meetings. Commander Mike Arcati and Bill Woods of the American Legion in Forest Hills discussed plans for the upcoming Memorial Day Parade.

The NYC Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) provided insights into its disaster preparedness efforts, while Let’s Talk Democracy Club introduced its mission to foster civic discourse. Daniel Olson, a columnist for Forest Hills Times, spoke about his work covering the local music scene.

Representatives from Metro Village of Forest Hills stressed the importance of supporting small businesses to keep money circulating locally. The Friends of the QueensWay team updated attendees on the project to convert an abandoned railway into a public green space.

Jason Simba of Festival Cinema NYC announced a ten-day film festival coming to Regal Midway in Forest Hills. The Forest Hills Green Team detailed plans to restart a composting program at MacDonald Park along with their gardening initiatives.

Additionally, Central Queens Against Hate spoke about efforts to foster unity and combat discrimination. Heather Beers-Dimitriadis of Community Board 6 closed the event by expressing appreciation for the West Side Tennis Club’s hospitality and reinforcing the board’s commitment to keeping residents informed.

The annual gathering, attended by representatives from numerous civic organizations, reinforced the importance of community engagement in shaping the future of Forest Hills.

Yelp and Variety Boys and Girls Club team up to host “Toys for Tinis”

BQE Admin on December 17, 2024

On Giving Tuesday, December 3rd, the vibrant community of Yelp Queens came together for an unforgettable evening of philanthropy, fun, and festive cheer at SkyBar in Long Island City. The event, titled “Toys for Tinis,” was a heartwarming celebration that brought people together to support the Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering youth by offering a diverse range of programs to inspire and guide them toward a brighter future.

Hosted by Yelp Queens Director, Samantha Chillemi-Berenz, the event’s mission was clear: combine the joy of holiday giving with the social atmosphere of a cocktail party to raise funds and collect gifts for local children in need. The night was a perfect blend of generosity and celebration, featuring signature cocktails (including a specialty “Tini” in honor of the theme) and plenty of opportunities for guests to contribute to the cause.

“I’m so grateful to the Yelp Queens community for coming together on Giving Tuesday to support such an important cause,” said Samantha Chillemi-Berenz, beaming with pride as the event came to a close. “The turnout exceeded all expectations, and it’s truly inspiring to see how people can come together to make a difference in the lives of kids who need it most. We’re not just raising toys; we’re raising hope for these kids, and that’s what makes this event so special.”

The event successfully raised $690 and brought in approximately 55 gifts, all of which will be delivered to the Variety Boys & Girls Club to help brighten the holidays for local children. The toys, ranging from games and books to sports equipment and art supplies, were carefully selected to ensure they could inspire creativity and learning for kids of all ages.

John Sanchez and John Renda, co-chairs of the Variety Young Professionals Committee, also attended the event and shared their gratitude for the support from Yelp Queens. “We are incredibly thankful to Samantha and her team for their dedication and hard work in making Toys for Tinis a success,” said John Sanchez. “These gifts will go a long way in supporting the mission of Variety Boys & Girls Club. It’s heartwarming to see how the community rallies around our programs, and we’re excited to see the positive impact these contributions will have on the kids we serve.”

John Renda added, “The kids we work with at Variety often face challenging circumstances, but thanks to events like this, they are given the opportunity to dream big and develop the skills they need for the future. The generosity we’ve seen tonight will make a huge difference in their lives.”

As the evening drew to a close, the mood was filled with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie. Attendees exchanged stories, enjoyed the festive atmosphere, and reflected on the power of community support. For those who attended, Toys for Tinis wasn’t just a fun holiday event—it was a reminder of the difference one collective effort can make.

With $690 raised and 55 gifts collected, the event was an overwhelming success. It was an evening that not only celebrated the season of giving but also highlighted the ongoing work of organizations like Variety Boys & Girls Club, whose impact extends far beyond the holiday season.

Julie Won Secures $4.5 Million in Capital Funding for LaGuardia Community College Updates

BQE Admin on September 25, 2024

 

By Jean Brannum | jbrannum@queensledger.com

Councilmember Julie Won and Laguardia Community College President Kenneth Adams unveiled major refurbishment plans for the college’s pool made possible by Won securing $4.5 million in funding on Sept 19.

The funding will purchase a new roof for the pool building, air conditioning for the room, and a brand-new chiller to keep the water cool. Those who use the pool will enjoy a much more comfortable experience since many at the press conference were sweating. The pool is a place for exercise, youth and adult swimming lessons, and youth swim team practice. The updates will also increase the building’s energy efficiency by 50%.

“Our students are working hard to complete their certificates and earn their degrees, and we want to make sure they get to do so in facilities that are as safe and up-to-date as possible,” President Adams said.

Won, who completed part of her four-year degree at a local community college, said she was excited to provide funding that would update the hall.

“You have my commitment at LaGuardia Community College to make sure that your students are always amplified and uplifted, that your students are going to be the first in line for workforce development and job opportunities for training, as well as partnerships with unions and everything that we can possibly think of,” Won said.

The pool is part of Shenker Hall, which opened in 1971 as the college’s first building. The building holds classrooms, labs, offices, a cafeteria, a gym, a theater, and three daycare centers. The current cooling tower is prone to mechanical failures, and replacement parts are no longer available for the old equipment.

Construction is expected to begin in April of 2025 and conclude in early 2027.

 

New Public Library Could Be Coming to Court Square

BQE Admin on September 18, 2024

5PointzLIC apartment building. Credit: Jean Brannum

By Jean Brannum | jbrannum@queensledger.com

The Queens Public Library has reached a tentative agreement with 5PointzLIC in Court Square to build a new location on the building’s second floor, according to a press release.

The new branch will replace the former LIC library at One Court Square, which closed in 2020. The Queens Public Library negotiated a fifteen-year lease with a five-year renewal plan with the development owner, G-M Realty L.P.

The lease is expected to be finalized in the Fall and construction is estimated to be two years starting Summer 2025.

This deal comes after the Mayor’s office and LIC Councilmember Julie Won continue to advance the Long Island City Neighborhood Plan, a comprehensive planning process to develop a vision for the future of the area.

“Court Square is a rapidly growing neighborhood and this new library will give our neighbors access to countless books, technology, and vital, free programming,” Won said.

5PointzLIC is an apartment building on Jackson Ave.

 

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