Facebook Twitter
718 426 7200
Facebook Twitter

Glendale Register

Search
SEARCH
There are no ads matching your search criteria.

“Marching Through Time: Honoring Woodhaven’s Rich History at Victory Field”

BQE Admin on April 10, 2025

Victory Field, which was converted from an eyesore into a state-of-the-art athletic facility in 1925 and dedicated to the memory of “The Unknown Soldier of the World War.” On June 14th, residents from Woodhaven and surrounding communities will gather to celebrate Woodhaven’s 190th Anniversary and Victory Field’s 100th birthday.

By the time you read this, June 14th will be just over two months away—which means Woodhaven’s 190th Anniversary Celebration and Parade at Victory Field is right around the corner!

You can register your group or organization to participate in the parade by emailing projectwoodhaven@gmail.com. Groups from Woodhaven or neighboring communities around Forest Park are welcome to march around the track and celebrate both Woodhaven’s 190th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of Victory Field.

Back in the early 1920s, the large plot of land at Woodhaven Boulevard and Myrtle Avenue was described in the Leader-Observer as “a dump heap and an eyesore.” But in 1925, Queens Parks Commissioner Albert C. Benninger unveiled plans to transform the space into a state-of-the-art athletic facility, complete with a four-lane quarter-mile track, six baseball diamonds, basketball and handball courts—all for a cost of $100,000 (roughly $1.8 million today).

As for the name, in the aftermath of the First World War, communities were looking for ways to honor the young men who went off to fight and never came home. And so, as the brand-new park neared completion Commissioner Benninger announced that it would be named “Victory Field” in honor of ‘The Unknown Soldier of the World War’ from Woodhaven and Richmond Hill.

Victory Field was officially dedicated on Sunday, December 6, 1925, before a crowd of several thousand people, old and young. Veterans from Woodhaven and Richmond Hill were in attendance, including members of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Spanish-American War Veterans.

They were also joined by local members of the Grand Army of the Republic, whose members fought in the Civil War. Imagine that – veterans from the United States Civil War marching around the track at Victory Field!

The ceremony began with a triple-salute from an eight-man firing squad, followed by a moving moment as a bugler played taps, answered from across the field by a second bugler’s echo.

American Legion Post 118 played a central role in the event, with their commander, John Pasta, serving as Chairman.

Just weeks after opening as freezing temperatures set in, the Parks Department flooded the track at Victory Field, turning it into a frozen rink for local ice skating, a cherished memory for generations.

After the ceremonies were over, spectators were treated to a race featuring William Plant, a ‘racewalker’ from Ridgewood who had competed in the 1920 Olympics. Plant was seeking to beat the single-hour walking record of 7 miles, 1,437 yards and 4 inches. He was also looking to best the eight-mile walking record of 1 hour, 1 minute and 34 seconds.

But more than halfway through the race, it was apparent that Plant was going to fall far short of both records and so he abandoned the attempts and said it was due to darkness.

Just weeks later, as freezing temperatures set in, the Parks Department flooded the track, turning it into a frozen rink for local ice skating, a cherished memory for generations.

Now, 100 years later, Victory Field will once again be a place of celebration. On June 14th, residents of Woodhaven and neighboring communities will gather to honor the area’s rich history. And all other veteran groups and organizations are welcome to join us and march in the parade to honor sacrifices of those who served and lost their lives in World War I.

In addition to the parade, the celebration will include a Flag Day ceremony at the cement ballfields (with a bounce house and other activities for children), an art sale featuring local artists, and a vintage baseball game between the New York Mutuals and a local team, played by 1880s rules. After the game, kids will be invited onto the field for old-time baseball workshops.

This special event is made possible by the Woodhaven Cultural & Historical Society, the Forest Park Trust, Councilwoman Joann Ariola, and the Woodhaven Art Circle. Make sure you save the date and tell your friends and neighbors.

Watch Party at Lowery Bar

BQE Admin on April 10, 2025

By: Sirra Ryan

Lowery bar hosted a watch party for the Men’s college basketball game between the Florida Gators and Houston Cougars. Inside the Sunnyside bar at 43-02 42rd Ave the front was packed with a group of people watching and cheering for their team to win.

Loud conversation took place as people discussed the game with one person even saying that they didn’t care which team won. “Gotta a really good group of fun people hanging out, good energy, good food and a good vibe” Anne Muldoon, the owner of the bar said. 

From ordering food from the bar such as nachos to drinks like beer to the loud cheering it was clear that the night was about community. 

As the game went on the crowd all cheered on their team from their seats. Some even took bets on which team would win.

“So because of the fact that I have a couple dollars on Houston I am rooting for the Houston Cougars tonight. So, Houston seems to be the concession for all that are here” says customer JJ. 

When asked if he thought that would be his pick JJ says “No I know it depends on the match up I didn’t think Houston was going to beat Duke on Saturday, but it ends up being a crazy game and I’m kind of riding the momentum.”

As the night progressed it was clear that the watch party was a way to bring a community of fans together.

Florida finished the exciting game by beating the Cougars 65-63.

Capri Jet Realty Hosts Successful Investor Seminar

BQE Admin on April 10, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The Real Estate Investor’s Seminar hosted by Capri Jet Realty Corp. on March 27th brought together a diverse group of aspiring and experienced investors for an evening of practical insights and expert advice. Held at Ocean Prime in Maspeth, the event provided attendees with essential tools and strategies to help them navigate today’s real estate market.

In an effort to empower investors with the knowledge necessary for making informed decisions, the event covered a range of crucial topics including property financing, inspections, legal considerations, market trends, and investment strategies. Expert speakers took the stage to provide a comprehensive look at real estate investment and offer actionable advice.

Robert Napolitano, Associate Real Estate Broker at Capri Jet Realty, spoke with enthusiasm about the event’s purpose.

“Investing in real estate can be a game-changer, but knowledge is key,” he said. “We created this seminar to help investors—whether they’re just starting out or have years of experience—make smart, strategic moves in today’s market.”

One of the seminar’s highlights was a dynamic panel discussion, which featured a mix of experienced investors and legal professionals. The panel offered real-world examples and gave attendees the chance to hear from those who have successfully navigated the real estate market. The open discussion that followed allowed guests to directly engage with the experts, providing even further opportunities for learning and networking.

“It’s all about educating our clients on what’s happening in the market,” said Napolitano. “Tonight, we’re not just discussing how to buy or sell properties, but also things like utilizing tax strategies or understanding the mortgage landscape—that can lead to greater financial success.”

Among the speakers was Mario Saggese, a CPA and tax consultant, who addressed the tax implications of real estate transactions. 

“People who own properties often need guidance on how much tax they’ll pay when selling, particularly in areas like capital gains taxes,” Saggese said. “At this event, we’re not only helping them understand the tax aspects, but also offering strategies—like the 1031 exchange—to help defer those taxes.”

The event also featured a presentation from a mortgage broker and a home inspector, providing critical information on securing financing and ensuring the quality of investment properties. 

Napolitano also emphasized the importance of working with a qualified real estate agent to achieve the highest returns on property sales. “Our job is to put the needs of our clients first,” he said. “Whether they’re buying or selling, our goal is to ensure they’re getting the best deal.”

Throughout the evening, attendees had the opportunity to network with fellow investors, realtors, and professionals, establishing connections that could lead to future collaborations or investment deals.

As seats were limited, those who attended were eager to make the most of the rare opportunity. The seminar’s success has sparked considerable interest in future events, with many attendees expressing a desire for more in-depth sessions.

“We want our clients to leave with a full understanding of all the tools available to them when making decisions about real estate investments,” said Napolitano.

For those who missed the event, Capri Jet Realty Corp. has announced plans for additional seminars and networking opportunities aimed at empowering the next generation of real estate investors. For more information, visit CapriJetRealty.com or contact the team directly at Robert@CapriJetRealty.com.

Ronen Nahom Launches Mayoral Bid, Emphasizing Policing

BQE Admin on April 10, 2025

Jack Delaney

JDelaney@Queensledger.com

Ronen Nahom, a longtime West Village resident with a varied career spanning entertainment, finance, and construction, has launched his bid to become New York City’s next mayor, espousing a vision for the city that includes beefing up policing, cracking down on protests, and repealing congestion pricing. 

Nahom, XX, is helming a largely grassroots campaign to challenge Curtis Sliwa, a Republican mainstay, in the GOP’s mayoral primary in June.

What inspired the Manhattanite to run for mayor? “It’s years in the making,” said Nahom at a recent roundtable. “It’s a puzzle of a lot of things that I did in my life, that I went through.”

Nahom, who was born in Israel, moved to NYC in 1992 after fulfilling his mandatory military service. He only intended to visit briefly, but life had other plans: “After the army, I came to New York,” he recalled. “I was supposed to go travel, but my brother was here. So I came here [thinking I’d] work for a little bit, then go on the trip.” He laughed. “And I’m still here.”

In those first few years, Nahom drove a tow truck to pay the bills. After returning from a trip to Israel, he switched to driving limousines — and started to pursue his passion for acting. He worked as an extra, landing cameos in both “Sex and the City” and a skit for “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” and joined the Screen Actors Guild. From there, he dipped his toes into the production side, forming his own outfit before shifting gears again: this time, as a home remodeler. Nahom also traded options with his brother on the side, until the dotcom bubble burst in the early aughts. Since then, he has focused on growing his construction business.

Though Nahom’s platform includes undoing DEI programs and addressing antisemitism, his campaign emphasizes policing and public safety as its top priority. “I’ve been doing martial arts since I was 14,” shared Nahom, and that practice informs his proposed solutions for the city’s problems. 

At the heart of Nahom’s pitch to voters is the argument that the city must take a harsher approach to law enforcement and the criminal justice system. Specifically, he advocated — in a callback to former Mayor Rudolph Giuliani’s “broken windows” strategy — for levying heavy fines against fare evaders, while also restoring qualified immunity for police officers and seeking the maximum penalty for repeat offenders. 

Furthermore, Nahom promised to crack down on protesters, which will likely be a hot-button issue in the race given the detainment last month of the Columbia graduate Mahmoud Khalil. As mayor, Nahom would “deploy specialized riot police to swiftly arrest and detain individuals participating in illegal demonstrations,” per his campaign site. “Peaceful assembly is a right but lawlessness and public disruption will be met with strict enforcement and zero tolerance. Our streets must remain open, safe, and functional for all law-abiding citizens.”

At the roundtable, Nahom expressed frustration with the slow pace of bureaucracy. While not a politician by trade, he pointed to his experience on the board of his housing cooperative in 2012 as evidence that he would be able to wrangle NYC’s many agencies: “I became loved by many, and hated by others,” he said. “I cleaned up everything. I made a lot of changes, and obviously other people don’t like it.”

In contrast to his own track record in that position, Nahom criticized current Mayor Eric Adams, characterizing him as ineffective. “How hard is it to go out there, take some action, and get some guts to do what it takes? If I was there in his shoes, I wouldn’t care who’s fighting what, and what the politics are like,” he said of Adams. “If I have to fight to the end and even lose the job, but try to actually get things done, I will.” 

If needed, he continued, he would consider taking action against judges who he said were too lenient in their sentencing, to hold them to account: “How about every time these guys let these criminals out for the 150th time, you say, okay, this judge, put something out there and make them look bad — make them retract and change their mind.”

Nahom said one impetus for running was the experience of bringing his children on the subway, and having to tell them that it was not safe. He moved his family to Florida when the pandemic hit and mandates for both masks and vaccinations were floated, and said he was dismayed at what he perceived as the city’s decline since then.

Though his campaign faces long odds, having only raised approximately $20,000 to date, Nahom is confident that he will be able to unseat Sliwa. When Nahom started considering a run late last year, for example, he was initially cowed. “I started watching videos and debates. At first, it looked like this is a big thing — what am I thinking?” But after listening to the other candidates, he had an epiphany. “I was like, wait a minute, I can do a better job.”

Safety Concerns Spark Outrage at Proposed Battery Storage Site

BQE Admin on April 10, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

A rally was held on April 2 to protest the proposed installation of a lithium-ion battery storage system in Middle Village, located at 64-30 69th Place, directly across from PS/IS 128. The proposed project, which has sparked community outrage, would position the large-scale energy storage system in a residential area already home to a daycare center, an animal hospital, and a children’s play center—raising serious concerns about safety and the well-being of the community.

The rally, organized by Council Member Robert Holden, drew a crowd of concerned residents, political figures, and local parents who voiced their fears about the safety and environmental impact of the facility in such a densely populated area. Holden emphasized the potential dangers posed by the facility, particularly for the nearby schools.

“We go around here, and we see who are the most affected, the children that go here, the parents of the children, the homeowners who live close to this facility,” Holden said. “We’re not going to take this lying down, we have to fight back. They are always shoving these kind of places at us, but this is now very, very dangerous.” 

Republican mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, who also attended the rally, criticized the siting of such facilities in residential areas, urging officials to consider industrial zones for energy storage systems instead.

“You say to yourself, why would you be putting such dangerous facilities in residential areas,” Sliwa said. “So, I’ve been the Paul Revere on this only because I spent time in Staten Island, where it first became very obvious, eight locations alone, North Shore, mid Island, South Shore. But it doesn’t mean that people are opposed to green energy or lithium-ion batteries or the warehouse, they just need to be in industrial areas. And it’s a Democratic issue, and it’s a Republican issue.” 

Sliwa’s remarks echoed concerns about the city’s energy infrastructure. He blamed former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s decision to close the Indian Point nuclear plant, which once provided a third of the region’s power, as a key reason for the city’s reliance on alternative energy storage solutions. The issue has ignited concern across multiple neighborhoods. Sliwa pointed to locations in Staten Island, Brooklyn, and now Queens where similar facilities are being proposed, citing a growing trend of placing these sites in areas with higher residential density. 

The debate over lithium-ion battery storage has become a flashpoint for broader discussions about the balance between green energy initiatives and community safety. While proponents argue that the facilities are necessary to stabilize the grid and store renewable energy, opponents contend that the risks of storing such volatile materials in residential areas outweigh the benefits.

The rally also featured a speech from Donald Cranston, a representative from Assemblywoman Jaime Williams’ office. Cranston highlighted the health risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, including the release of toxic metals such as cobalt.

“On a personal note, I have a brother who died from 911 illness in 2019 he was 48 years old,” Cranston said. “These batteries emit cobalt, high metals. They’re toxic. What are we going to do when we find out 10 years from now, what the effects are on the children to go to school here?” 

Cranston added that Assemblywoman Williams had introduced a bill (A6955) aimed at restricting the placement of battery storage facilities near schools and residential areas. The bill would require a 1,000-foot buffer zone between such facilities and schools, homes, or commercial properties that people frequent.

​Eight-year-old Paula, a third-grade student at PS/IS 128, got a chance to expresse her concerns during the rally. 

“I’m in the third grade and I love this school, and I really hope there’s not gonna be a power facility here,” she said. “It’s harmful to our community, it’s harmful to our classmates, the students, the teachers, the parents and even for the houses across the street.”  

In response to the backlash, Holden vowed to continue pursuing legal action to halt the facility’s construction. “Right across the street over a thousand kids attend, who in their right mind would want to put this kind of facility next to a school?” 

​Holden then went on to initiate a chant, to further emphasize the community’s opposition to the proposed facility:​

“No storage facility here, protect our children!”

At the rally, Paul Pogozelski, a candidate for city council, expressed concerns about the proposed lithium-ion battery storage facility, suggesting that the $2.25 million property in question may have been bought with prior knowledge of the facility’s plans. 

“Maybe we can find a better location for it, where it’s in a little more industrial area,” Pogozelski said.  “That in case of an incident that you’re not having to evacuate kids from school, veterinarian clinics and local residents, because it’s right across the street from them.”

Pogozelski questioned how the facility would handle emergencies like fires, especially in such a densely populated area, highlighting the potential risks for local residents, schools, and businesses. While acknowledging the need for solutions to issues like brownouts and blackouts, he argued that a more appropriate location in an industrial area would be safer and less disruptive. 

The FDNY report, issued on January 8, highlights significant progress in reducing lithium-ion battery-related fires and fatalities in New York City, following ongoing efforts to address the growing safety concerns associated with these batteries.  

The report highlights a significant 67% decrease in lithium-ion battery-related deaths, from 18 in 2023 to 6 in 2024. This reduction is attributed to improved public education, safety campaigns, and increased inspections of e-bike shops, which led to numerous violations being issued. Despite this progress, the number of lithium-ion battery fires remained high, with 277 incidents in 2024 compared to 268 in 2023. However, the increase in outdoor fires suggests that public awareness about proper storage and charging is improving. Overall fire fatalities in the city decreased by 25%, with electrical fires, including those caused by lithium-ion batteries, identified as the leading cause.

NYC Ramadan Night Market Unites Communities

BQE Admin on April 3, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Steinway Street became a vibrant hub of culture, flavor, and connection on March 13 as Malikah hosted its second annual NYC Ramadan Night Market. The stretch between 28th Avenue and 25th Avenue was alive with the sounds of bustling crowds, the aromas of halal street food, and the colorful display of modest fashion and handmade goods from Muslim-owned businesses.

The night market wasn’t just a feast for the senses—it also served a larger purpose as a fundraiser for Malikah. The event’s proceeds went directly to the organization’s mutual aid fund, supporting efforts to uplift and protect vulnerable communities. As attendees enjoyed an eclectic mix of local vendors, they also helped fuel Malikah’s mission of empowerment and solidarity.

Guests savored diverse culinary delights and discovered one-of-a-kind creations, all within a warm, inclusive atmosphere that celebrated Muslim culture in New York.

“We couldn’t be more excited about the success of this past week’s Malikah Ramadan Night Market. With over 30 amazing vendors and thousands of community members, it was truly a celebration of everything that makes our community so special. Malikah’s mission has always been to support small businesses, create space for connection, and bring joy, especially during such an important time of year for all of us. Seeing the energy, the love, and the unity at the event reminded us why we do this work. It was a beautiful opportunity to come together, lift each other up, and celebrate our shared values.” Rana Abdelhamid, Executive Director and Founder of Malikah said.

Small Businesses in NYC Seek REAP Extension

BQE Admin on April 3, 2025

Courtesy Ferrara Manufacturing

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

As the cost of living continues to rise in New York City, particularly in the borough of Queens, Governor Kathy Hochul is pushing a key tax incentive aimed at spurring business growth and job creation. The Relocation and Employment Assistance Program (REAP) is designed to help businesses move to areas like Queens, providing crucial support at a time when small businesses are struggling with inflation, high rent, and competition from neighboring states.

Since its inception, REAP has successfully attracted businesses to Queens by offering tax credits for relocating jobs from outside the city or Manhattan below 96th Street to designated areas in the city’s outer boroughs. The program has been particularly beneficial for small businesses, which make up the backbone of Queens’ economy. With a growing need for affordable and sustainable business opportunities, local leaders and economic development advocates are urging for the program’s extension beyond its current expiration in 2025.

Tom Grech, President of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, explained the significance of the program. “The most important part about all of this is that the rest of the world is not waiting for New York to figure out how to be efficient and affordable,” Grech said. “This program helps level the playing field, especially for small businesses, and allows them to compete in a city that’s becoming increasingly expensive.”

The REAP program offers businesses a $3,000 tax credit per eligible employee for up to twelve years if they relocate to qualifying locations in Queens or other outer boroughs. These designated areas are typically revitalization zones in the city’s industrial and commercial districts. In areas outside these zones, businesses can still receive a $1,000 annual credit for each qualifying employee. With benefits like these, REAP has become an attractive option for businesses seeking to expand or relocate to Queens.

Queens is home to roughly 57,000 small businesses, many of which are struggling to survive amid rising operational costs. “90% of those businesses have 10 or fewer employees,” Grech said, emphasizing the challenges of sustaining these enterprises. “This effort has been on the books for years, helping ensure that small businesses can stay open in places like Queens.”

Despite its success, REAP faces an uncertain future. Coalition members from the Five Borough Jobs Campaign, a coalition of local economic development corporations, business improvement districts, and businesses, are advocating for the program’s continued support. The coalition, which is focused on bringing new jobs to New York’s communities, believes REAP is vital to addressing the affordability crisis and ensuring that small businesses have access to the resources they need to thrive.

The program’s extension is currently under consideration in this year’s state budget, with advocates urging state lawmakers to reaffirm its importance. Grech stressed that as New York recovers from the economic toll of the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting small businesses through programs like REAP is more crucial than ever.

“I think it’s really, really important to extend this program, especially as we look to rebuild in the post-COVID era,” Grech said. “This is about reaffirming our commitment to small businesses, which are the lifeblood of our community.”

Queens residents and business owners alike are hopeful that the state will continue to support the REAP program, ensuring that local businesses can prosper in the face of growing economic challenges. While the program’s future remains uncertain, advocates remain committed to fighting for the job creation and economic sustainability that businesses in Queens need to succeed.

The REAP program, which is slated to expire in June 2025, will play a key role in the future of business development in the outer boroughs. As local leaders push for an extension, the focus remains on securing a more affordable and equitable environment for businesses and workers across New York City.

For more information about the Five Borough Jobs Campaign, visit fiveboroughjobs.com, for more information about the the REAP program, visit tinyurl.com/reapnyc.

Kora Opens To Fanfare in Sunnyside

BQE Admin on April 3, 2025

Kora, the bakery that social media loves, opened its doors at its new Sunnyside location Saturday morning. More than a hundred people lined up along Greenpoint Avenue down and around 45th Street at 9am, as owners Kevin and Kimberly cut the ribbon. In front of the store at 45-18 Greenpoint Avenue, included in the picture are George Hadjiconstantinou, from the  Queens Chamber of Commerce, Dirk McCall, director of Sunnyside Shines and State Senator Mike Gianaris.

“Queens, The World’s Borough” Sculpture Unveiled at MacDonald Park

BQE Admin on March 27, 2025

By Alice Moreno

On March 22, hundreds of Queens residents came together to celebrate community, diversity, and love with the unveiling of a new sculpture at MacDonald Park in Forest Hills. The sculpture — a blue, red, and white (the borough’s flag colors) statue in the same typewriter font used during the I ❤ NY campaign that says “Queens, The World’s Borough” — is based on the borough’s tagline. Queens houses people from all over the world; in fact, there are more than 130 languages spoken in the borough alone. 

The celebration kicked off with speeches from Larry Ng, who designed the sculpture, and various Queens officials, such as the borough president Donovan Richards, Jr. and District Attorney Melinda Katz. Representatives from Northwell Health and Queens Rising were in attendance as well, who helped organize the event. Even Mrs. Mets, the mascot of the New York Mets attended, bringing smiles to patrons and children alike. 

All speeches given had a common theme: their love for their borough. 

“To all of my friends in Queens County, we are an amazing borough,” said Nedelka Sotelo, a representative for Queens Rising, during her speech. “We make it work, every single day. We work together, we live together, [and] we go to school together. Our kids play together […] and we do it all year.”

Dancers then came to dazzle audiences with their impressive moves. In collaboration with Queens College School of the Arts, a salsa group from Queens Rising spun and moved their hips with rhythm to songs such as “Tu Con El” by Frankie Ruiz. They invited audience members to dance with them, with a sea of smiles surrounding the sign as everyone danced along. 

Queensboro Dance Festival also had dancers perform after the sculpture unveiling, showcasing the vast diversity of cultures in the borough. Countries such as Colombia, India, West Africa, and the state of Hawai’i each moved in a circle, each taking their turn in the middle to do a dance representative of their culture. 

“It’s very important for oneself to grow [and] adapt to the world and its obstacles,” said Valentina Olaya-Florez, a Colombian dancer from the Queensboro Dance Festival. “And I think it really helps to showcase that cultural identity. It’s important to understand and learn and teach to other people that it’s knowledgeable to connect with that part of yourself and your culture […] and to share that with the world as well.”

Towards the end of the event, a raffle was held, giving away three miniature versions of the sculpture and taking home a piece of Queens history.

This groundbreaking moment for Queens wouldn’t have occurred without the help of Larry Ng, the sculpture’s designer. 

Ng always felt that the borough is underrepresented. Between Manhattan being the epicenter and Brooklyn becoming a trendier spot for 20-somethings, he was interested in finding something unique about Queens. After doing some research, he came to realize how grandiose Queens diversity is, being home to 190 nationalities and even being in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the “most ethnically diverse urban area on the planet.”

After his discovery, Ng was on a mission to bring a sculpture to life, highlighting the borough’s tagline: “The World’s Borough.” 

Initially, the sculpture was originally going to be a Spider-Man sculpture, as he is regarded as a Queens icon and the character originated from Forest Hills. As Ng began to find new ideas, Kevin Sanichara — organizer of the unveiling event and one of the designers and coordinators of the sculpture — listened in and shared his grievances. Since then, Sanichara, alongside a team of architects, supporters, and volunteers, came together with Ng to bring the sculpture to life. 

“I was like, ‘Man, it sucks [that] you couldn’t get the Spider-Man’ [sculpture] up,” said Sanichara to Ng upon their first meeting. “But we didn’t want to give up, [so] we decided to kind of bring a storm and put this together, and we want to do something for Queens.”

The concept of the sculpture also came with a multitude of support from corporations and government officials alike. Northwell Health had heard about the initiative and offered their help by donating a large sum of the budget. 

From a $50,000 budget, Ng received vast donations from Northwell Health, private donors, and even a small GoFundMe campaign that was held, in which $5,000 was raised. 

“Northwell Health was instrumental in making [the sculpture] happen,” said Ng. “They gave money, they helped […] they reached out to [the] community. So, therefore, I really owe a lot to Northwell Health.”

In addition, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation expedited its efforts into making the sculpture a part of the “Arts in the Park” program, which helps preserve and celebrate public artwork. 

With a central location on Queens Boulevard and easy to spot from any angle, the new “Queens The Worlds Borough” statue brings community together, celebrating the idea that Queens is indeed, home to the world. 

“When I was kind of working with [the sculpture during installation, ] I saw so many people take photos with it, especially little kids,” said Ng. “[These] two little girls jumped up [and said], ‘Mommy, mommy, I want to take a picture!’ So one wanted to sit on the “U” [and one] wanted to stick their head out of the Q. It’s kind of like, it’s just very heartwarming.”

To learn more about the “Queens, The World’s Borough” sculpture, visit https://www.queens-nyc.com/ 

Forest Hills Stadium Concert Series in Jeopardy

BQE Admin on March 27, 2025

The future of the Forest Hills Stadium summer concert series is uncertain after the NYPD revoked its sound amplification permits, citing safety concerns linked to a dispute over road access.

Over the weekend, the NYPD Legal Bureau notified the stadium’s operators that permits could not be issued because the Forest Hills Garden Corporation (FHGC) had blocked access to the private roads surrounding the venue. The NYPD stated that without the ability to close these streets, it could not ensure public safety at the 13,000-capacity open-air venue.

The decision has sparked backlash from local businesses and workers who depend on the stadium’s concerts for revenue. In response, Forest Hills Stadium pushed back, insisting on social media that its 2025 concert schedule remains on track. 

“Forest Hills Stadium is moving forward with our 2025 concert schedule as planned and our permitting timeline is on its standard schedule,” the stadium wrote on social media. “As happens every season, the vocal NIMBY minority of Forest Hills Gardens are attempting to roadblock yet another enjoyable season of music.”

Residents opposing the concerts say their concerns go beyond noise complaints, arguing that the events disrupt their quality of life. The upcoming season is slated to begin on May 31 with a performance by Bloc Party, but whether the show will go on remains to be seen.

© – All Rights Reserved – LIC Journal
Facebook Twitter

Fill the Form for Events, Advertisement or Business Listing