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Sweating to the All Stars; WNBA’s Best to Gather in Phoenix this Week in Advance of Summer Olympics

BQE Admin on July 17, 2024

 

Photo Courtesy of @caitlinclark22 on Instagram

By Alexander Bernhardt Bloom | alex@queensledger.com

The Stanley Cup, this year, was won in Sunrise, Florida. This week, Major League Baseball’s best faced off in Arlington, Texas. Perhaps there is an organized campaign at work among our nation’s professional athletics leagues to send their most accomplished into the depths of the smoldering South this summer.

This week, the All Star representatives of the WNBA will get the worst of it, weather-wise, when they convene in Phoenix, Arizona, but to be fair, they’re not there to perform outdoor activities.

Friday is when said activities will get underway with the famed Skills and 3-Point Challenges, the league’s best and those there to cheer them taking up residence in the Footprint Center, usually home to the middling Phoenix Mercury. In the meantime and over the whole course of the two-day gathering, a related event across the street called WNBA Live will occupy the Phoenix Conference Center, and provide a venue for celebrity handshaking, ticketed proxy event-viewing, and the distribution of corporate partner-emblazoned swag and merchandise. On Saturday night all heads will turn toward the main event with the All Star exhibition game in the Phoenix arena.

The main event will look a little different this year because of the augmented structure adopted by the league to accommodate the 2024 Summer Olympics. In years past, the WNBA has suspended the All Star Game entirely as it prepares to send players – the USA Women’s National Team are all league members – to compete abroad. In 2021, sensing the opportunity, no doubt, for increased visibility in the spectacle, league leaders decided to stage the midsummer game, but billed it not as a show-down, but a send-off for the players who would compete in the games in Tokyo that year. This year they’ll repeat the successful format.

Of the twenty-four All Stars making their way to Phoenix to receive the honor this week, twelve of them are Olympians who will subsequently be making their way to Paris to compete in the summer games. (The other twelve are selected through a complicated schema that includes fan voting and input from other players, managers, and members of the media). If the claim is that the Phoenix event was arranged in their honor they’ve certainly earned it: the national team will seek their eighth consecutive title and possess a historical record to inspire would-be competitors to run for the exits at 70-3.

The domestic celebration should provide for a good show in its own right nevertheless. The WNBA is enjoying a crest-resembling moment in what has been a tsunami wave of rising fan following in recent years. Analysts have measured numbers three times the size of what they were for television viewers this season compared with the last, and ticket sales and player sponsorships have soared. The talking heads that be have said much about why.

Many of the sets of eyes present in Phoenix or tuned in from afar will be trained with special attention on Caitlin Clark, midwestern poster child, collegiate sports All American, WNBA rookie and highly-anticipated Rookie of the Year, and first-time WNBA All Star selection.

Clark has been credited with raising the visibility of the sport in general, and for carrying the banner as it enters a new era. At 22, the backcourt-lurking guard has had little time in the public eye but has widened them nonetheless in great numbers. She dribbles with dexterity and attacks in the paint with slithering stealth. She shoots with an outrageously quick release and astounding accuracy, and does so fearlessly, often from distances more frequently chosen in jest in schoolyard pick-up games – reach!

Coaches have explained the pass on Clark’s selection for Team USA as a matter of experience, and so she’ll join the home team on Saturday night, but we should expect to see her in the ranks of All Stars here and abroad for many years to come.

Sweating it out in one of America’s hottest municipalities this weekend, the WNBA’s best and the fans there to see them will, by any measure, have much reason to rejoice. Half of their stars will depart for the glamorous municipality in France thereafter, but they’ll always have Phoenix.

 

JCAL Exhibitions at Greater Nexus Spotlights Local Artists Queens Visual Arts Consortium Launches at Greater Nexus

BQE Admin on July 17, 2024

By MOHAMED FARGHALY | mfarghaly@queensledger.com

JCAL and GJDC are collaborating for three years to bring dynamic art exhibitions to Greater Nexus, aiming to enhance the space and inspire creative thinking. Photo courtesy of JCAL

Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning (JCAL) and the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation (GJDC) have embarked on a transformative three-year collaboration aimed at bringing dynamic art exhibitions to Greater Nexus, Jamaica’s pioneering co-working space.

“Displaying art throughout Greater Nexus enhances the atmosphere in multiple ways,”  Justin Rodgers, President and CEO of the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation said. “It beautifies the entire space, makes a welcoming, comfortable environment, and helps inspire creative thinking. Furthermore, Nexus is about providing a place for Queens minds to grow. We are thrilled to be part of JCAL’s Queens Visual Arts Consortium to showcase the talents of local artists.”

The partnership marks a departure from static displays, promising a quarterly rotation of artists, each infusing their unique themes and styles into the venue. This innovative approach not only celebrates local talent but also expands the reach of art beyond traditional gallery settings, aiming to engage a broader audience.

The partnership features quarterly artist rotations, prioritizing Queens residents and showcasing a variety of framed artworks. Photo courtesy of JCAL

“Diving into the deep JCAL talent pool was thrilling as our partnership with Greater Nexus strengthens the notion that art is a part of our daily lives,” JCAL Director of Program Operations Wendy Arimah Berot said.  “In a space where business is being conducted almost around the clock, the work of local visual artists will create an ambiance that may invite someone to pause for a moment to recognize and appreciate the talents of their fellow community members.”

The selection process prioritizes artists residing in Queens, ensuring their work resonates with the vibrant local culture. Artworks are curated to complement the professional atmosphere of Greater Nexus, predominantly consisting of framed pieces suitable for office display.

Jaime Todd, a self-taught multidisciplinary artist from Queens, kicks off the inaugural exhibit at Greater Nexus. Known for her bold abstract paintings, Todd’s work explores themes of identity and human biology, offering viewers a visual journey through intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

Jaime Todd, a local artist, launches the inaugural exhibit with abstract works celebrating life and identity. Photo courtesy of JCAL

“This collection of abstract paintings and drawings celebrate the vitality of life through pattern, bold lines, and vivid colors,” Artist Jaime Todd said. “The works come from two series: ‘Cellular Networks,’ which examines the wonder of human biology, and ‘Searching for Proginoskes,’ which explores the power of identity and bearing witness.”

The collaboration is part of the broader Queens Visual Arts Consortium, a coalition of nonprofit arts institutions and commercial enterprises dedicated to promoting local artists and enhancing community engagement through art. This initiative not only provides exposure but also economic opportunities for participating artists, including potential sales of their artwork.

“Our partnership with GJDC is truly about our community,” JCAL Executive Director Leonard Jacobs said. “There is, right now, a vast and flourishing cultural renaissance here in Queens, especially in Southeast Queens. We’re grateful for partners who see what we see, and who embrace the economic, educational, and humanitarian impact of arts as we do. After all, don’t artists always lead the way?”

For selecting artists to exhibit at JCAL, the primary focus was on Queens residents, aligning with their commitment to spotlight local talent from within New York City’s boroughs. The organization emphasizes artworks that strike a balance between neutrality and vibrancy, ensuring they complement the professional environment of our co-working space. Pieces must be framed and of moderate size, typically around 30 by 40 inches, to fit the gallery walls effectively. While the current lineup features artists with whom they have a history of collaboration or submissions, they aim to rotate through diverse talents who have showcased their work with them over the past three years.

Unlike a formal application process, they evaluate submissions received over the years—totaling approximately 2,000 artists—to curate compelling exhibitions that resonate with their diverse audience. This approach allows them to maintain a dynamic showcase of visual art while supporting local artists and providing them with exposure and potential sales opportunities through our exhibitions at JCAL.

Future exhibitions at Greater Nexus will continue to feature diverse artists from Queens, each bringing their unique perspectives and artistic visions to the forefront. The ongoing rotation ensures a dynamic and ever-evolving cultural experience for visitors and residents alike.

For more information about upcoming exhibits and the Queens Visual Arts Consortium, visit JCAL’s official website at jcal.org.

“Visual Arts makes a world of difference when it comes to public spaces,”  JCAL Artistic Director Courtney Ffrench said. “Color, texture, symbolism and expression, stimulates the mind and inspires creativity and revolution. The exhibitions coming to Greater Nexus are set to deliver, intentionally, a stimulating experience for all who are fortunate enough to see it.”

Cheerful Clefs Perform for Women for Afghan Women

BQE Admin on July 17, 2024

by Christine Sung

For the second year, Cheerful Clefs performed a small concert for Women for Afghan Women, a grassroots civil society organization in Queens, New York dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of disenfranchised Afghan women and girls in Afghanistan and the United States. This year, in celebration of the last day of their Youth Program, Cheerful Clefs, a student volunteer organization of six student volunteers passionate about the arts, provided a 40-minute concert including both vocal group and solo performances that included the following repertoire: O Del Mio Dolce Ardor by Christoph Willibald Gluck, I Wish You Love by Laufey, Rainbow Connection by Jim Henson, Let Us Adore You from Steven Universe, The Moon Will Sing by The Crane Wives, and Blackbird by The Beatles. 

Christine Sung, Katie Machado, and Nyla Anderson opened the performance by doing a short dance to The Pink Panther Theme Song, jumping straight into a group vocal performance of The Moon Will Sing by The Crane Wives. After, they introduced themselves warmly greeting everyone. Then, the group performed vocal solos: Katie performed Rainbow Connection by Jim Henson, Nyla performed I Wish You Love by Laufey, and Christine performed O Del Mio Dolce Ardor by Christoph Willibald Gluck. After the vocal solos, the group performed Let Us Adore You from Steven Universe. Lastly, the group performed Blackbird by The Beatles. To close the performance, Claire Shin gave a Korean Drum (buk) performance. Christopher Sung was on the Cheerful Clefs staff and assisted performers in setting up technical aspects of the performance. After the performance, they left some goody bags for the students to take on their way home.


The performance was anticipated with excitement and met with enthusiasm. Some audience members recorded parts of the performance and after the performance found members of the organization to thank them for the performance and exchanged kind words with performers. 

“We are grateful that Women for Afghan Women allowed us to join them for the last day of the Youth Program and perform for the students. We appreciate deeply that we were able to spread some joy of music and art on a day of celebration!” – Cheerful Clefs

Politicians, Community Members Weigh in on City of Yes

BQE Admin on July 17, 2024

Courtesy of @NYCPlanning

By Jean Brannum and Celia Bernhardt| news@queensledger.com

The City of Yes for Housing Opportunity got a marathon of a public hearing on July 10, with residents and representatives testifying to the City Planning Commission for over 12 hours.  

The third section of the Adams administration’s three-part City of Yes plan (with other proposals addressing climate and commercial businesses), City of Yes for Housing Opportunity includes a broad set of zoning and policy changes that would allow “a little more housing in every neighborhood.” 

Last week’s meeting was part of a larger public review phase for the housing proposal, where borough presidents and community boards can weigh in and suggest alterations. The next step after public review concludes is a binding vote from the City Planning Commission; following that, the City Council can vote to either approve, modify, or deny the plan. That final vote is expected to take place before the end of 2024. 

Many residents of Queens and Brooklyn expressed concerns about suburban neighborhoods losing their quiet environment. Some residents are worried that the population increase will exacerbate existing issues in the neighborhood. 

“Let us be clear about what this housing proposal does in fact represent: A little more Manhattan in every neighborhood,” said John Sheridan, a City Island resident who also said the changes would cause neighborhoods to lose their unique characteristics. 

On the flip side, many in the meeting argued that the changes are needed to create more affordable housing options. Vice President of Policy at TechNYC and former City Council member Marjorie Velasquez explained how the lack of affordable housing keeps potential talent out of the technology industries.

“Young professionals, even those with promising careers, are priced out of the market, forcing them to relocate or furlough living in New York City,” Velasquez said. “We want people building technology in New York City and build their families here.”

One of the most outspoken critics of the City of Yes was Councilmember Vicky Paladino, whose district includes College Point, Douglaston, and North Flushing. She said the city has pushed the proposed zoning changes “like a freight train” and said it would be better to have a pilot program for the changes. 

Paladino compared the process of the City of Yes to the legalization of cannabis, saying that the quick legalization process led to multiple smoke shops popping up around the city. 

Department of City Planning Director Daniel Garodnick argued with Paladino saying that 50% of the people in her district are rent-burdened, which means people pay more than 30% of their income towards housing. Paladino replied that her district is affordable due to Co-op apartments and condos. 

A map of community districts shows some neighborhoods in Paladino’s district built between 2,000 and 4,000 new buildings between 2010 and 2023. A section including the Douglaston area shows between zero and 2,000 new buildings. 

Carol Mccarthy from the Douglaston Civic Association said that only developers would benefit from the proposal and that no affordable housing would be built. Mccarthy also said that if the City of Yes passes, then Douglaston would consider seceding from New York City. 

“If passed we will be forced to consider the real possibility of secession from the city of New York,” Mccarthy said. “This can be done and it will be done if necessary. We have the means to do it”

Another disagreement ensued between Paul Graziano — an urban planner at the forefront of advocacy against the housing proposal — and the City Planning director. Graziano argued that increasing housing density would be “apocalyptic” due to the increase in number of people living in areas built for single-family homes. He also said that the population of New York City has not changed since 1960. According to city data and census data, the population of the city has increased since 1960 by about 1 million. 

Graziano’s other point was that the city already allows for more housing to be built, so there is no need to loosen restrictions more. Graziano claims the current zoning laws allow housing for up to 20 million people to be built now. 

“I am tired of listening to the propaganda from the City Planning Commission and Department of City Planning,” Graziano said. “You’ve heard the voices of the folks from outside of Manhattan, from the community boards, as well as the civic organizations. And if you persist in going forward with this, there will be consequences to this and we’ll find out what they are.”

Garodnick said that this has been brought up at other community board meetings and said it indicated a “fundamental misunderstanding of how zoning works.” 

According to Garodnick, land zones are rarely completely utilized due to existing buildings and finances among other reasons. He also said that the proposal would not eliminate single-family homes. Gardonkick used his response to also say that people should stick to the facts during the hearing. One person from the crowd told the committee to “stop lying” though it is not clear what they were referring to. 

The Department of City Planning will vote on the proposed changes in September. In the meantime, New Yorkers can make public statements at the next public hearing on July 24. 



Dermot Smyth Declares Candidacy for District 30 Seat

BQE Admin on July 17, 2024

by MOHAMED FARGHALY | mfarghaly@queensledger.com


Dermot Smyth, an advocate for education and community empowerment, contends in the upcoming district 30 election.

Dermot Smyth, a passionate advocate for education and community empowerment, emerges as a formidable contender in the upcoming district 30 election for Council Member Robert Holden’s seat.

With a robust background in education policy and a deep- seated commitment to improving local schools, Smyth’s campaign resonates with voters seeking substantial reforms in the education sector. 

Smyth, a Democrat and newcomer to the political arena, emerges with a unique blend of experience and a deep-rooted commitment to community service. Born to Irish immigrant parents who sought a better life in America, Smyth was inspired by their spirit of hard work and determination. 

His father’s journey to citizenship resonates strongly with him, shaping his belief in the importance of inclusive policies and opportunities for all. Currently residing in Middle Village, Smyth has been an integral part of the district for three decades, deeply embedded in its fabric long before his political aspirations took flight. Smyth, a dedicated father, has two children: a 30-year-old daughter and a 17-year-old son. 

Smyth’s professional journey is equally diverse. Starting as a janitor, Smyth witnessed firsthand the challenges and triumphs of local schools in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Initially trained as a teacher with a degree in history from Queens College, he found his calling in education, passionately shaping young minds for years. His tenure as an educator instilled in him a profound understanding of the challenges facing both students and teachers, fueling his drive for educational reform. 

In a roundtable with the Queens Ledger, Smyth emphasized the critical role of public schools in shaping the community fabric. 

“Education is extremely, extremely important to me,” Smyth said. “I’ve been a teacher, I’ve worked in the education space for 25 years now. Education is my number one priority because our kids matter.” 

Transitioning into the political sphere, Smyth honed his advocacy skills at his current position with the United Federation of Teachers (UFT) as Political Coordinator, where he tirelessly fights for better resources and support for educators. His grassroots approach and firsthand knowledge of educational issues distinguish him from other candidates, underlining his commitment to improving educational standards and opportunities for every child.


Smyth’s diverse experience and deep ties to the community underscore his platform for inclusive policies and community development.

“Dermot has been an exceptional advocate for our public schools for almost 20 years, not only in Queens but across the city,” Michael Mulgrew, President of the United Federation of Teachers said. “I look forward to Dermot taking part in our nomination process. His extensive experience in education and politics, and his deep knowledge of Queens communities,  would make a real difference in the lives of families in the 30th City Council district.”

Smyth’s stance on education policy is nuanced, reflecting a broad understanding of the challenges facing both public and charter schools. He acknowledges the achievements of charter schools but is wary of their potential impact on traditional public schools, especially those in underserved communities. 

Smyth’s primary focus remains on education, aiming to overhaul curriculum standards, enhance teacher training, and expand access to technology in schools. Additionally, he plans to champion small businesses, advocating for policies that support local entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth within the district. 

Central to Smyth’s platform is his support for community schools, a model he believes can bridge educational gaps and serve as community hubs beyond school hours. His endorsement of community schools aligns with his vision of community development, where schools play a pivotal role in neighborhood cohesion and support. 

Beyond education, Smyth is vocal on various community issues, including housing affordability and neighborhood preservation. He highlights the plight of residents forced to move further away due to rising costs, advocating for policies that enable families to stay rooted in their communities. 

“The issues here actually carry over across the city,” Smyth said. “Affordability in neighborhoods is everywhere, and it’s overcrowded. There’s school overcrowding. These are issues that have to be addressed, and I’m looking forward to working with community leaders and elected officials and the city administration to make sure all of these issues are addressed.” 

Throughout his campaign, Smyth emphasizes transparency and community engagement “It’s sugar coating crime that certain crimes are allowed and should be tolerated as a way of people surviving,” Smyth said. “And we’re a nation of laws. We’re a nation of laws, and if you start undermining that, or whittling away at them, it undermines the fabric of what this country is.” 

While acknowledging his limited visibility in traditional community boards, he asserts that effective leadership transcends boardroom politics.

 “Politics has gotten very, very toxic the way we have a conversation about it,” Smyth said. “People can disagree, you can have ideas and have different ideas, and that’s the way it should be.” 

Looking ahead, Smyth envisions a district where every child has access to quality education, families can afford to live and thrive, and communities are empowered to shape their own futures. His candidacy represents a call for inclusive leadership and pragmatic solutions to the district’s most pressing challenges. 

Dermot Smyth’s candidacy has garnered support from prominent figures, including Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Congressman Tom Suozzi, Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi, and UFT President Michael Mulgrew. 

“Having known and worked with Dermot over many years in his role with the UFT, I have seen first-hand his ability to work with a variety of elected officials, city agencies, and community stakeholders, to make sure the issues advocated for were moved in the right direction,” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said. “His knowledge of city government, and his vast experience working with leaders across the borough and city, make him the very best candidate to take on this role in the city council. I look forward to supporting Dermot in this race and working with him once elected.” 

Smyth aims to represent a fresh voice in local politics, grounded in a rich tapestry of personal and professional experiences. His candidacy symbolizes a blend of passion for education, advocacy for community interests, and a commitment to inclusive, sustainable growth for all residents of the district.

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