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

MacDonald Park”

“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/ 

Transfiguration Church Faces Uncertain Future Amid Financial Struggles

BQE Admin on March 27, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com

 

The future of Transfiguration Church, a historic and beloved institution in the Maspeth
community, is uncertain. Built in 1962 on Perry Avenue near 64th Street, the church has
served generations of residents, with roots tracing back to the early 1900s when it was
founded to support Lithuanian immigrants. The building has stood as a cornerstone of the
community for more than six decades, but now, financial pressures and the deterioration
of the church property have placed it in danger of closing.

The church’s financial struggles, detailed by Msgr. Monsignor Calise, the pastor of St.
Stanislaus Kostka Parish, highlighted the dire situation. The church has faced increasing
costs associated with repairs and maintenance of the property, but with a dwindling
congregation and fewer donations, it has become financially unsustainable. Repairs to the
church’s physical structure have been deferred, but the need for significant investment
has reached a point where Msgr. Calise believes the best option may be to sell the
property. The Diocese’s real estate division conducted an assessment, estimating that over
$1 million in repairs would be needed to keep the church functional. Without a growing
congregation to support these expenses, the idea of going into debt to fund repairs seems
untenable.

At present, around 160 to 200 people attend Sunday services, and the church has
struggled to attract new members. Neighboring parishes, such as St. Stanislaus Kostka,
benefit from a much larger congregation and stronger financial backing. St. Stanislaus, in
particular, has a thriving school with over 330 students and a strong community
foundation, leaving Transfiguration increasingly isolated in terms of both attendance and
financial support.

An assessment of the Transfiguration Church building has revealed several critical issues
that need urgent attention. The main roof, originally installed with three-tab asphalt
shingles, is at the end of its useful life and needs replacement. Additionally, the side aisle
roofs have experienced significant water damage, requiring complete replacement, with
potential asbestos testing. Concrete and paving around the church, especially near the
rectory and parking lot, are in poor condition and need extensive repairs, including
excavation and replacement of a potentially blocked or collapsed drain line. The rectory
has suffered from brick displacement, poorly installed windows contributing to water
damage, and requires upgrades to its heating system and possible asbestos removal. The

total cost for these repairs is estimated between $1.3 million and $1.5 million, which far
exceeds the church’s current budget, prompting the consideration of selling the property.

At a town hall meeting held on March 20, at Transfiguration Church, community
members voiced their concerns and frustrations. Many expressed outrage at the potential
closure of the church, viewing it as a blow to the heart of Maspeth. Longtime
churchgoers spoke about the deep emotional and spiritual connection they have to the
church, and the significance of Transfiguration in the history and culture of the
neighborhood.

The meeting revealed a shared sense of disbelief that the church might close, especially
given that it was financially solvent before its merger with St. Stanislaus Kostka in 2019.
Parishioners questioned what changes led to the decline in donations and attendance. Was
it the merger that created confusion? Were there actions taken that alienated long-time
supporters? The loss of the church would be devastating, not only as a place of worship
but as a historic landmark for the Lithuanian community, which has been a cornerstone of
the parish for over a century.

One key point raised at the meeting was the need to involve the younger generation.
Churchgoers emphasized the importance of engaging children and their parents in the life
of the church, encouraging families to return and support the church’s mission. The
community’s strength lies in its ability to rally together, and the hope is that renewed
involvement from families could help secure the future of Transfiguration.

Dr. Paul-Michael Kazas, President of the Knights of Lithuania Council 110, expressed
strong dissatisfaction with the town hall at Transfiguration Church. He felt the
information presented was misleading and intended to justify the potential sale and
demolition of the church. Kazas criticized the lack of discussion regarding the liabilities
and structural issues at Saint Stanislaus and questioned why the church had not pursued
grant opportunities, such as applying for National Register of Historical Sites status,
which could have helped fund repairs. He also pointed out contradictions in the church’s
statements, particularly regarding the church’s closure and the claim that no final decision
had been made. Kazas expressed frustration with the church’s response to efforts from the
Knights to engage the community and support the church, including organizing events
that raised funds. He argued that Transfiguration Church should not be closed or sold,
emphasizing that with proper repairs, parishioners would return, and the church could
continue to serve the community.

In an interview, Msgr. Monsignor Calise explained the difficult financial situation facing
the Transfiguration Church. He emphasized that while the church has been a beautiful
and integral part of the community for many years, attendance has dramatically decreased
to around 140 to 150 people per weekend. This has made it difficult to cover the monthly
expenses. Calise said that “the more people that come, obviously, the more donations

there’ll be. So it’s easier than to pay the bills.” Additionally, the church has lost some
rental income, and the aging buildings require costly repairs that the parish can’t afford.
Calise also called for more community involvement, saying, “What’s crucial is getting
people into the seats. If we can get people into the seats, then the parish stays open and
lively,” and stressed the importance of volunteer work and donations, although he
acknowledged that even those efforts may not be enough to cover the extensive repairs
needed.

The “Parish Health” report shows fluctuating trends in sacraments and mass attendance at
Transfiguration and St. Stanislaus Kostka from 2021 to 2024. Baptisms at
Transfiguration declined in 2023 but rebounded in 2024, while marriages dropped
significantly. Mass attendance varied, with some declines at Transfiguration, while St.
Stanislaus Kostka saw growth, especially in its 12:30 PM Spanish service, which nearly
doubled from 102 in 2021 to 186 in 2024.

Despite the grim outlook, no final decision has yet been made regarding the church’s
future. As the meeting concluded, the pastor assured the congregation that all options
were still on the table, including the possibility of selling some of the other properties
attached to the church in order to fund the repairs. The church’s fate, according to Msgr.
Calise, is not a decision to be made hastily.

Parishioners remain determined to explore every avenue, from securing additional
funding to organizing community efforts, in hopes of preserving the church that has
served as a spiritual home for many.

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.

Puppy Kitty NYC: A Lifeline for Stray Cats Across New York City

BQE Admin on March 27, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Puppy Kitty NYC, a non-profit based in Queens, is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating stray and injured cats across New York City. Run by Meagan Licari, the organization focuses on providing care for cats that are sick, homeless, or critically injured—animals that other shelters might turn away. Through their rescue efforts and Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program, Puppy Kitty NYC works to reduce the city’s overwhelming feline population while offering these animals a second chance at life.

Puppy Kitty NYC has become a crucial player in addressing the city’s feral cat crisis, rescuing an average of 900 cats annually, with 600 finding loving homes each year. Through a dedicated team of employees and volunteers, the organization has gained a reputation for taking in cats that might not make it through traditional shelters, offering them both medical care and, in many cases, a forever home. While the organization rescues a variety of animals, including dogs and small pets, they are primarily equipped to handle cats, with 90% of their focus dedicated to feline care.

Licari, who was born and raised in Connecticut, founded Puppy Kitty NYC after moving to New York and witnessing the overwhelming number of stray and feral cats on the streets. Having studied veterinary technology at Quinnipiac University, she was drawn back to animal rescue after missing the work and began volunteering. Starting with small tasks like transporting cats to veterinary appointments, Licari quickly rose through the ranks of the organization and became its president.

“The purpose of Puppy Kitty and one of our main focuses is rehabilitating and rescuing homeless street cats. We do TNR, trap, neuter, return, to reduce the population of cats here across New York City,” Licari said. 

The organization’s work is grounded in the principles of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), a method to control the city’s overwhelming feline population. TNR involves trapping feral cats, getting them neutered and vaccinated, and returning them to their original location if it’s safe to do so. This approach helps stop the cycle of uncontrolled breeding and ultimately reduces suffering.

However, the task is not without its challenges. Funding remains a constant hurdle, with the organization relying almost entirely on donations and volunteers. Licari expressed frustration that despite the city’s need for services like those Puppy Kitty NYC provides, government funding is limited, leaving the organization often to fend for itself.

“We’re doing animal control, essentially, but there’s very little government support,” she said. “It’s disappointing that New York City doesn’t support the work that’s being done here. We rely on our community, our donors, and social media to keep the organization afloat.”

Despite these difficulties, the organization has flourished, growing from an operation run out of Licari’s garage to a facility with full-time staff and foster homes throughout the five boroughs. Puppy Kitty NYC currently cares for around 400 cats at any given time, with the cats spread across different locations, including foster homes and over 100 cats in the main facility in Queens.

Collaboration with other organizations is key to the success of Puppy Kitty NYC. The group partners with municipal shelters, including the Animal Care Centers of New York, and several other rescue groups, sharing resources and working together to save as many animals as possible. They also operate a food bank to support smaller rescues with essential supplies.

One of the organization’s most notable achievements was in 2024, when it raised over $1 million in funds and in-kind donations, enabling them to continue their mission and support their food bank.

“Last year, we rescued over 900 cats and found 600 cat’s homes and I think that’s pretty amazing,” Licari said. 

Puppy Kitty NYC has also been at the forefront of advocating for responsible pet ownership in the city. Licari is an outspoken advocate for the city’s ban on the sale of cats and dogs from breeders, a law she supported by testifying at city council meetings.

“Always adopt, not shop,” Licari said. “Breeders are for profit, not for animals. So always go to your local animal shelter or rescue to help out an animal.”

Licari also advises pet owners not to let their cats outside, as it increases the risk of accidents, exposure to diseases like feline leukemia, and interactions with other animals that could lead to injury or illness.

“We do not recommend letting your cat outside ever, especially here in New York City,” Licari said. “There’s a lot of different reasons, but number one, it puts them at risk for cars, getting in fights with other animals, disease, losing them. It’s just not safe.”

The journey for Licari, who has built both the organization and lasting friendships with volunteers and staff, has been one of personal growth. Seeing rescued cats transformed from sick and frightened creatures into healthy, happy animals living in loving homes is a reward she says cannot be measured.

“This is the most rewarding thing I’ve ever done,” Licari said, holding back tears. “Watching these cats go from almost dying on the streets to living their best life—it’s amazing. So, if are passionate about animals and are interested in joining and volunteering, I promise it will change your life.” 

For those who want to help, Puppy Kitty NYC encourages volunteering, fostering, and donating. The organization is active on social media, posting updates on rescues, needs, and success stories.

“The more support we get, the more lives we can save,” Licari said. 

You can follow Puppy Kitty NYC on Instagram, TikTok, X, and Facebook at @PuppyKittyNYC to stay up to date and get involved.

 

 

Headwall Theatre Presents The Pillowman in Queens

BQE Admin on March 27, 2025

Courtesy Headwall Theatre

 

Headwall Theatre Company will stage Martin McDonagh’s The Pillowman, a darkly
comedic and thought-provoking play, at The Secret Theatre in Woodside, NY. Directed
by Josh Lombard, the production will run from March 27 to April 12, with 7:30 p.m.
performances on March 27, 28, 29, April 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, and 12, and 2 p.m. matinees
on March 30 and April 6.

The play follows Katurian, a writer interrogated by two detectives over the disturbing
content of his short stories. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that Katurian’s
tales mirror real-life murders in his town, leading to a gripping exploration of the
relationship between art, violence, and the power of the state to control creative
expression.

Featuring an Equity-approved cast, The Pillowman stars Jonathan Dauermann as
Tupolski, Brian Patterson as Katurian, Nicholas James Reilly as Ariel, Chris Robertson
as Michal, and Luli Ortega as Child. The play’s design team includes Assistant Director
Marianne Goodell, Technical Director John Orosz, and Makeup Designer Kyle Krueger.

Lombard, who has described the play as a haunting examination of storytelling’s impact,
noted that its themes of censorship, truth, and artistic freedom resonate strongly in
today’s climate. “In an era where debates about censorship and creative expression rage
across the nation, where artists and their work are censored, stifled, or erased from
history books, and where the line between fact and fiction grows increasingly blurred, the
play’s themes feel more urgent than ever,” said Lombard in a statement.

The production, which has been praised for its balance of humor and darkness, will run
approximately 150 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. Tickets are available for
purchase on the company’s website at headwalltheatrecompany.org.

The Pillowman premiered in London in 2003 and had a Broadway debut in 2005,
winning multiple awards, including the Olivier Award for Best New Play and Tony
Awards for Best Lighting and Scenic Design.

Headwall Theatre Company, based in Queens, seeks to support emerging theater artists
and foster a vibrant, creative community. This production offers a chance to experience
McDonagh’s thought-provoking work in an intimate, community-driven setting.

For more information, visit headwalltheatrecompany.org or follow the company on social
media @headwalltheatre.

Unplug and Grow, The Power of Summer Camp

BQE Admin on March 27, 2025

Courtesy Freepik

 

By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com

As the days start to grow warmer and the school year winds down, many parents are
considering the benefits of summer camp for their children. Far beyond a mere escape
from the classroom, summer camps provide kids with life-changing experiences that
foster personal growth, build resilience, and create lasting memories. According to the
American Camp Association (ACA) and Gateway Region YMCA, the skills and values
developed at summer camp contribute to shaping the future of young minds.

Summer camps offer more than just fun—they provide a unique environment where
children develop critical life skills. Whether through outdoor adventures like canoeing
and horseback riding or creative activities like arts and crafts, kids learn to communicate,
collaborate, and problem-solve. For example, children playing a sport or hiking with
peers develop leadership skills, while group projects teach them to work together toward
common goals.

Moreover, summer camp promotes independence. For many kids, camp represents their
first extended time away from their parents, offering them the opportunity to explore new
activities, make decisions on their own, and develop a sense of identity.

Camp also offers a much-needed break from the screen-heavy, structured routine of the
school year. With more than seven hours a day spent in front of a screen, children often
miss out on the chance to engage in physical play and creative exploration. Summer
camps, however, provide ample opportunities for unstructured outdoor play, which is
vital for mental, physical, and emotional development.

Another key benefit of summer camp is the development of resilience. Whether it’s
overcoming a fear of heights on a climbing wall or learning from a lost game, kids at
camp face challenges that help them grow stronger, teaching them the value of
perseverance.

Lastly, summer camps play an essential role in developing social skills. Through
teamwork, community living, and shared activities, kids learn the importance of respect,
fairness, and trust. These values, fostered in a supportive and supervised setting, prepare
children to become compassionate and responsible citizens.

As noted by the Gateway Region YMCA, camps provide a nurturing environment where
children not only grow but thrive, building competencies in areas like communication,
leadership, and teamwork.

As the summer season soon approaches, Queens parents are encouraged to start
researching local camps and programs to give their children the opportunity to benefit
from these life-changing experiences. Whether you’re looking for day camps, overnight
options, or specialized programs, there are numerous opportunities in the area that cater
to various interests and age groups. By starting early, parents can ensure they find a camp
that aligns with their child’s needs and passions.

 

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