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Affordable Housing and the City of Yes At The Center of Community Board 1 Meeting

Jean Brannum on May 29, 2024

City Council Member Tiffany Caban addresses Community Board One. Credit: Jean Brannum

By Jean Brannum | jbrannum@queensledger.com

Members of Community Board One in Astoria heard another proposal for the City of Yes campaign and a short speech from City Council Member Tiffany Caban on May 21 on Astoria Blvd. 

Colin Ryan, from the Department of City Planning, gave a presentation outlining the mayor’s proposed ‘City of Yes’ amendments that will loosen zoning restrictions to allow the building of more housing in the city. 

According to the department’s statistics, Queens has a vacancy rate of just 0.88 percent, meaning there is significantly less housing inventory for people in the city. With a tighter housing market, the rent prices rise. Fifty-three percent of Queens residents are rent-burdened. While the community district has had more housing development, other districts have significantly fewer new apartments.

Community board member Richard Khuzani commented that the district has “shouldered the burden” of new developments. The presentation showed that the Astoria and Long Island City area had over 12,000 new units built between 2010 and 2023. 

The amendments would allow the building of more shared apartments, meaning more units where multiple people would have private bedrooms, but share one kitchen or bathroom. The proposal also strips the requirement for parking spaces to allow for more units and allows some buildings to expand their square footage by up to 20 percent. The new amendment would also allow housing to be built on top of businesses in low-density neighborhoods. 

Ryan asked the board to consider voting on the zoning changes in June. 

Meanwhile, two zoning change proposals for new housing developments were approved, including one new apartment building near Astoria Park. Astoria Park Warehouse LLC owns the lots and proposed to rezone tax lots to build the complex. Astoria natives 

The board was concerned about the true affordability of the units but ultimately voted to approve the project. Board member Doreen Mohammed disclosed that as a city government employee, she would not be able to afford the proposed complex. Northwest Queens is also a historically low-income housing area. 

“Who is this affordable for?” Mohammed said. 

Jaclyn Scarinci, the land use and zoning lawyer for the project, acknowledged Mohammed’s concern and said that while it may not be affordable for everyone, the project would serve a need for affordable housing in the city. 

The Borough President’s office will be next to review the proposed zoning changes. The development is on 24th Avenue and 21st Street and is two buildings. 

City Council Member Tiffany Caban visited the board for the first fifteen minutes and gave an update on the affairs of the City Council. The Council is reintroducing the Secure Jobs Bill which would protect workers from being fired for nonlegitimate reasons. The same protection exists in other countries, according to Caban. 

The bill was introduced in the previous legislative session but failed to pass due to the two-year terms some city council members served when elected in 2021. 

 

New Rooftop Farm Opens in LIC

Jean Brannum on May 29, 2024

IS10 students plant tomatoes. Sky Farm LIC opens. Credit: Jean Brannum

By Jean Brannum | jbrannum@queensledger.com

Kids, the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens, and company executives cut a ribbon marking the official opening of Sky Farm LIC on May 21. 

The one-acre rooftop farm, once owned by Brooklyn Grange, received a makeover after the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens acquired the rooftop property in 2023. The once abandoned rooftop now has a solid footpath, rows of produce growing, and bee hives maintained by Honey House in Astoria. 

To celebrate the opening, children from Horace Greely Middle School visited to receive a VIP tour of the farm, eat watermelon, and plant tomatoes with farmers Alexis Curnutte and Abby Avital. Before planting the tomatoes, the students got the chance to take a whiff of the fishy water that provides nutrients to the plants.

Middle Schoolers received watermelon during their tour of the farm. Sky Farm LIC opens. Credit: Jean Brannum

Among the students were Sherronice Robinson and Alicia Andrews, both 5th graders. 

Sherronice Robinson sniffs fish water, which will provide nutrients to the tomato plants. . Credit: Jean Brannum

“That was fun because we got to like, really get inside the dirt,” Robinson said referring to what it was like to plant the tomatoes. 

Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens CEO Costa Constantinides thanked the project’s sponsors at the opening, including the New York Power Authority, Hydro Quebec, and building owner RXR. The New York Power Authority designed and financed the project. 

“This space is a haven, an oasis in an urban jungle. We have a bonafide farm right here in the middle of Long Island City,” Constantinides said. 

The farm will educate visitors on the practice of growing, preparing, and eating fruits and vegetables. NYPA is sponsoring educational sessions to teach children about climate change and sustainable solutions. LaGuardia Community College, also a partner of the project, will help develop a curriculum for sustainable agriculture. 

This summer, the farm will host summer camp sessions until September which is when school programs start again. Before the opening, the farm was already hosting field trips for local schools. 

Farmer Alexis Curnutte said in a previous interview that she was excited about the opportunity to get kids into farming, especially in the concrete-laden city. 

“I think that giving kids the opportunity to understand where their food comes from, especially in a place like New York is just so exciting,” Curnutte said.” And I certainly wish that I had had something like this when I was their age.”

Students, sponsors, and Boys and Girls Club cuts the ribbon to mark the opening of the Sky farm. Credit: Jean Brannum

The next phase of the project will refurbish the western side of the rooftop where the bee hives are currently located. A new greenhouse is being built to replace the old one, according to landscape architect Michael White. 



Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade Honors Fallen Heroes

BQE Admin on May 29, 2024

By MOHAMED FARGHALY mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The streets of Forest Hills were alive with patriotic spirit as the American Legion Continental Post #1424 hosted its annual Memorial Day Parade on May 26, honoring fallen service members and local heroes alike.

The parade, a longstanding tradition dating back decades, served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served in the armed forces. Held by the legion post, it was a testament to the enduring legacy of the organization, which was established in 1946. Despite facing closure just five years ago due to declining participation, the post has been revitalized and modernized under the leadership of Commander Michael Arcati and Vice Commander Pat Conley, along with other dedicated members.

The Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade also welcomed a distinguished guest this year: New York City Mayor Eric Adams. His presence underscored the city’s deep-rooted patriotism and unwavering appreciation for the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.

Mayor Adams, standing tall among the procession, exemplified a profound respect for those who have served on the battlefield and those who never returned home. His participation in the parade spoke volumes about his commitment to honoring the memory of fallen heroes and supporting the veterans who have bravely served their nation.

“I still say I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God,” Mayor Adams recited. 

Mayor Eric Adams expressed his resolute commitment to honoring heroes and defending the country, emphasizing his personal connection to the cause through the loss of his 19-year-old uncle, who died defending his nation. He vowed to stand boldly against any attempts to tarnish the country’s legacy, refusing to remain silent in the face of adversity.

“We come out today so we can honor our heroes,” Mayor Adams said. “I want to defend this country and display it till my death. I believe in America. God bless America and God bless our troops.” 

The two grand marshals who were announced earlier this month by the legion lead the Memorial Day parade down the streets with flare and spirit. Led by the grand marshals, Vietnam veteran William Hartnett and dedicated civilian Michael Reddy, the procession wound its way through the neighborhood, drawing crowds of spectators who lined the streets to pay their respects.

Hartnett and Reddy exemplified the spirit of remembrance and gratitude as they led the parade with pride and reverence. 

Hartnett, a distinguished veteran who served in Vietnam, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent his fellow servicemen and women. He emphasized the importance of the Legion’s role in providing support and camaraderie to veterans, highlighting the organization’s commitment to the community.

Similarly, Reddy’s journey into his role as Grand Marshal began over a decade ago when he witnessed the declining participation in the parade and stepped in to support the organization. His unwavering dedication to honoring the sacrifices of servicemen and women has earned him the respect and admiration of the community.

Their presence served as a reminder of the importance of honoring the memory of fallen heroes and recognizing the contributions of those who have served their country.

The parade route, which began in front of the American Legion post on Metropolitan Avenue, traversed through the heart of Forest Hills before culminating at the Remsen Family Cemetery. Along the way, participants and spectators alike paused to reflect on the significance of Memorial Day and to pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

As the procession made its way to the Remsen Family Cemetery, where Revolutionary War soldiers rest, the solemnity of the occasion was palpable. 

As the parade drew to a close, the community came together to celebrate the enduring spirit of remembrance and gratitude that defines Memorial Day. Through their participation and attendance, participants and spectators alike paid tribute to the brave men and women who have served their country with honor and distinction.

Tour of the 1964/65 World’s Fair Grounds Features Queens-Based Performers

BQE Admin on May 29, 2024

By Britney Trachtenberg britt@queensledger.com

Queens Theater and Queensboro Dance Festival gave free tours of the 1964/65 World’s Fair Grounds on Sun., May 26 in honor of the fair’s 60th Anniversary. Karesia Batan, Executive Director of the Queensboro Dance Festival, and Justin Rivers, Chief Experience Officer of Untapped New York led attendees around Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Pop-up performances represented the pavilions at the World’s Fair, which opened in Apr. of 1964 and ran until Oct. of 1965.

Batan asked, “All the performances and all the artists that you’re [going to see] today [are] all from Queens, so can we please give a shout out to the most diverse borough in the world?” The attendees clapped.

Attendees met at the Unisphere at 2:00 p.m. and participated in an international flag parade in honor of the Fair’s Avenue of Flags and Court of Nations, which represented the unity of the countries that came to the 1964/65 World’s Fair. 

Queens-based band Brass Monkeys led the participants to the Court of the Universe in honor of the New Orleans Jazz Tent at the World’s Fair. Rivers said, “The city of New Orleans was represented by Louisiana. They had a New Orleans Jazz Tent where you could see jazz performed on a regular basis throughout your time here at the World’s Fair.”

The Chinese Dance studio RU Dance from Flushing performed Latin dances at the Court of the Universe. Barbara Deakin from Sunnyside said, “It was cross-cultural, so that seemed to embody the idea of the World’s Fair.”

Rivers discussed the Court of the Universe and the Fountain of the Planets’ significant roles in the World’s Fair. He said, “For those of you who remember the World’s Fair, you know that the theme was all about space. Behind me in that body of water is the Fountain of the Planets. When it was actually created for the 1939 World’s Fair, it required a conduit from the Flushing Bay that is the size of the Holland Tunnel to push the water into the basin and create the lakes on the other side of the highway that we have today.” He also said, “For the 1964/65 World’s Fair, all around this pool were the captains of industry and commerce.” The companies in this area included GE, Clairol, Bell Industries, IBM, and Pepsi-Cola.

CarNYval Dancers from Jamaica, Queens presented a Caribbean Soca near the Rocket Thrower statue. During the 1964/65 World’s Fair, the Caribbean Pavilion was located near the structure. The pavilion consisted of two buildings with palm-tree-lined terraces and contained steel drum bands and calypso dance performances.

Rivers said, “Robert Moses was President of the World’s Fair Corporation and had a say in basically everything that was going on here. He picked the artist Donald De Lue for that statue. He had only six months to create that bronze statue.” Rivers elaborated, “When it was revealed, it was not loved so much by the people in general because it was a little bit older than people’s sensibilities in the post-modern futuristic ‘60s.”

Tinikling from the Philippines and The Physical Plant from Sunnyside danced on a set of steps near the base of the Unisphere. During the 1964/95 World’s Fair, a moat surrounded the Philippines Pavilion with three bridges.

Kofago Dance Ensemble from Jamaica, Queens taught attendees a West African dance routine. The ensemble presented a West Africa drum routine as well.

10tecomai Yosakoi Dance Project from Bayside performed a Japanese Yosakoi routine.

In the Nebula Lobby at Theaterama!, N.Y. Aikikai gave an Aikido martial arts demonstration. The dojo of Yamada Sensei introduced Aikido to the U.S. at the World’s Fair. Batan said, “That is actually something very personal to me. My whole family practices Aikido.”

The Greek American Folklore Society from Astoria presented Greek dances. During their last routine, the dancers invited attendees to perform with them. Participants held hands and danced in a circle. They learned the basic steps involved in Greek dances.

Students from McManus Irish Dance in Sunnyside performed three Irish step dancing routines.

After arriving at the Vatican Bench, participants listened to a music installation of the Cities Service Band of America, which played at the World’s Fair.

When asked how the World’s Fair Tour came together, Batan said, “I love producing events like this. We determined the type of walking route. I looked up the actual souvenir map to see what country pavilions were sort of near the historical sites that we would be stopping at and that was the inspiration to figure out which Queens-based dance groups on our roster to reach out to.”

The QDF presents free outdoor dance performances in public parks across Queens. Their free dance tour begins on June 8. The twenty-five dance groups represent the various cultures in Queens.

Ridgewood and Glendale Honor Troops With 86th Memorial Day Parade

BQE Admin on May 29, 2024

By Britney Trachtenberg britt@queensledger.com

Credit: Britney Trachtenberg.

The communities of Ridgewood and Glendale held their 86th Memorial Day parade on Mon., May 27 around 11:00 a.m. at the corner of Myrtle Ave. and Cypress Ave. The Allied Veterans Memorial Committee of Ridgewood and Glendale sponsored the parade.

The Allied Veterans Memorial Committee of Ridgewood and Glendale started in 1920 with a mission of creating monuments for service members who lost their lives in World War I. The Allied Veterans Memorial Committee consists of Brewery-Keenan Heisser Post 1815 of the American Legion, Joseph B. Garity Post 562 of the American Legion, Ridgewood Post 123 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (V.F.W.), Lt. Alfred Lucia Chapter 118 of the Disabled American Veterans organization, and Glendale Post 104 of the American Legion, and Sgt. Edward Miller Post 7336 of the V.F.W. The auxiliaries of the Allied Veterans Memorial Committee of Ridgewood and Glendale include Edward R. Miller Post 7336 of the V.F.W. Auxiliary, Ridgewood Post 123 of the V.F.W. Auxiliary, and Lt. Alfred Lucia Unit 118 of the D.A.V. Auxiliary. 

Russell Goeller, Parade Chairman and member of the Brewery-Keenan Heisser Post 1815, hosted the opening ceremony and called each speaker to the microphone. Sailors and Marines from the Amphibious Assault Ship USS Bataan (LHD-5) in Norfolk, Virginia gathered in the street to listen.

Father Dariuz Blicharz of St. Matthias Roman Catholic Church gave an invocation. Larry Biordi, member of the Lieutenant Alfred Lucia Chapter 118 of the Disabled American Veterans organization, spoke the Pledge of Allegiance and Russell Goeller, III sang “God Bless America. Attendees who had gathered on the sidewalk joined in. Father Blicharz gave a benediction.

Goeller introduced James “Jimmy” Dwyer, Grand Marshall of the parade. Dwyer signed up for the U.S. Navy at sixteen years old and fought in the Vietnam War. The Grand Marshall said, “‘All gave some. Some gave all.’ You hear that said a lot and that’s what today represents. We remember those who serve our country and fell in the many, many conflicts and wars this country has been in. That’s the purpose of Memorial Day.”

NYC Council Members Robert Holden and Jenifer Rajkumar spoke during the opening ceremony.

Holden showed a photograph of Eddie Hoyt, a sailor who died at nineteen years old aboard the USS Jacob Jones. Hoyt’s family lived near Holden’s family. After Hoyt’s passing, Holden’s mother became a pen pal for sailors. Though she corresponded with many sailors, one caught her eye. The man became Holden’s father.

Rajkumar thanked the Sailors and Marines for their service. She said, “Every day, I thank God that I was born in the greatest nation on Earth and all of us have to prove ourselves worthy of the sacrifice made by those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.”

The Joseph B. Garity Post 562 American Legion Firing Squad conducted the Salute to the Dead.

Participating organizations walked 1.4 miles from Myrtle Ave. and Cypress Ave. to Myrtle Ave. and Cooper Ave. Police from the 104 Precinct led the floats along the route. The Allied Veterans of Ridgewood/Glendale and Glendale Post 104 American Legion shared the first float, followed by a float from the Kiwanis Club of Ridgewood with the 104 Precinct and NYC Community Board 5.

Caroline Barnes, Music Teacher, led the drum line from Hawtree Creek Middle School in a lively performance with choreography. Barnes said, “We perform all over the place for different events. This is our first Memorial Day event. We are the junior G-line for the New York Giants. We started in 2018, but in the past three or four years, we started to get some recognition.”

Members from the NYPD American Legion Post 460 marched, followed by NYPD police officers in a pink car which honored Women’s Veterans Recognition Day. 

The Sacred Heart Twirlers from Sacred Heart Catholic Academy in Glendale performed a routine with their batons.

Walter Rastetter, Assistant Scout Master, led children from Scouts America Troop 427 of the Sacred Heart Parish. He said, “We march every year in this parade.” 

Members of Gotham Volunteer EMS carried the American flag, POW MIA flag, and NYS Excelsior flag. The Middle Village Volunteer Ambulance Unit 7, FDNY Unit 286, and FDNY Unit 135 followed in their respective vehicles.

Police officers from the NYPD Community Affairs, Highway Patrol, and Auxiliary attended the event. The Toys for Tots East Coast Car Connection and members from the Knights of Columbus Council 5103 made appearances at the parade. 

Representatives for Johanna Carmona handed out flyers to promote her campaign for NYS Assembly. Representatives from Wendy Li’s office handed out flyers to promote her campaign for Surrogate Court Judge.

Goeller led a closing ceremony at Myrtle Ave. and Cypress Ave. Desiree Wisotsky sang the National Anthem, joined by attendees who followed the parade to its final stop. Deacon Peter Stamm of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church said an invocation and Biordi recited the Pledge of Allegiance.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. spoke at the closing ceremony about the housing crisis affecting veterans. He said, “Too many of our veterans come home from serving our country and they do not have access to a home. That is disgraceful. We recommit our work to ensure that you have housing when you come home. We are now undergoing the redevelopment of the [state-owned] Creedmoor site where we pushed for veterans’ housing to be on that site.”

Marissa Corston sang “God Bless America” and Deacon Stamm administered a benediction to end the parade.

The Allied Veterans Memorial Committee of Ridgewood and Glendale plan to hold the 87th parade on May 26, 2025.

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