Maspeth Honors Heroes at 39th Annual Memorial Day Parade

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The Maspeth community came together on May 25 for the 39th annual Memorial Day Parade, honoring the brave men and women who served the nation. Organized by the United Veterans and Fraternal Organizations of Maspeth and co-sponsored by Maspeth Federal Savings, the event drew crowds along Grand Avenue for a patriotic afternoon of remembrance.

This year’s Grand Marshals were veteran brothers John and Leonard Rosiak and community leader Thomas K. Rudzewick. John and Leonard, both U.S. Army veterans, shared stories of sacrifice and resilience—from surviving World War II displacement to serving during Vietnam. Rudzewick, President and CEO of Maspeth Federal Savings, was honored for his decades of civic involvement and dedication to local causes.

John Rosiak, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime member of Kowalinski Post 4, shared his powerful story of resilience—from a childhood disrupted by World War II in Europe to proudly serving the country that gave him a new start. His brother Leonard, also a veteran, served in Vietnam and went on to build a life centered around hard work, family, and civic pride.

Joining the Rosiak brothers was Thomas Rudzewick, President and CEO of Maspeth Federal Savings. Rudzewick, recognized widely for his leadership and community engagement, has devoted decades to supporting local causes and institutions. His dedication to Maspeth and its residents reflects the spirit of Memorial Day beyond the battlefield.

Maspeth Federal Savings was founded in 1947 to help returning soldiers establish roots in the local area. Together as grand marshals, Thomas, John, and Leonard carry the torch of passion for both country and community.

The parade began at Walter A. Garlinge Memorial Park and ended with a moving ceremony at Maspeth Memorial Park. Local veterans, students, and community groups participated, making it a meaningful tribute to those who gave their lives—and those who continue to serve.

Community Support Keeps Forest Hills Parade Tradition Alive

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Forest Hills Honors Sacrifice and Community at Memorial Day Parade

Forest Hills came together in heartfelt remembrance and celebration on Sunday, May 25, for the 2025 Memorial Day Parade, a cherished neighborhood tradition that marked its 60th year. With veterans, community leaders, and residents lining Metropolitan Avenue, the parade served as a poignant tribute to fallen service members while also highlighting the strength and unity of this vibrant Queens community.

The procession stepped off from the American Legion Continental Post No. 1424 and wound its way through the heart of Forest Hills, culminating at the historic Remsen Family Cemetery—final resting place of Revolutionary War soldiers. The solemn atmosphere at the cemetery underscored the parade’s purpose: honoring those who gave their lives in service to the nation.

This year’s Grand Marshals—community leader Ed Wong and U.S. Air Force veteran Bernadette Vermersch—led the parade with pride. Wong, a longtime civic advocate and co-founder of the Forest Hills Asian Association, was recognized for his decades of public service and community-building efforts. Vermersch, who served during the Vietnam era and is the first woman Grand Marshal in recent memory, reflected on her military service and lifelong ties to Forest Hills.

Joining them were NYPD Officer Christopher DeSantis of the 112th Precinct and Kathy Reddy, nursing director at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Hospital.

Preceding the parade were two events celebrating the official kickoff: a private gathering at the West Side Tennis Club on May 14 and a public ceremony at the American Legion post on May 16. These events honored sponsors and supporters who help keep the parade alive through private donations, as the event remains independently funded.

Commander Michael Arcati, in his final month leading the post, emphasized the importance of community support. “Without our sponsors, it would be very difficult to put on a good show,” he said.

Navy sailors and Marines marched in the parade, joining local youth groups, civic organizations, and marching bands in a display of patriotism and community pride.

Forest Hills Vets and Leaders Awards Patriotism Ahead of Memorial Day Parade

Christian Spencer

At the American Legion Continental Post 1424, the annual Memorial Day Banquet and Parade Kick-Off Party on Friday, May 23, set the stage for honorees and a celebration of patriotism ahead of the Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade.

The heartfelt gathering brought together veterans, law enforcement, community leaders, students, and families who dined inside the historic post building on Metropolitan Avenue ahead of Sunday’s parade.

As the Queens Ledger previously reported, it was announced that Grand Marshals—community leader Ed Wong and U.S. Air Force veteran Bernadette Vermersch—would be featured at this year’s parade.

“Serving in the Air Force was a defining chapter in my life,” Vermersch said. “To be recognized by my own community is truly humbling.”

Joining them are NYPD Officer Christopher DeSantis of the 112th Precinct and Kathy Reddy, nursing director at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Hospital.

All four individuals received awards for the occasion.

“I’m here for the people of Forest Hills every day, and this award reminds me why I put on the badge,” DeSantis said. “I share this with my colleagues who do the work with heart and courage.”

“Nursing is about care, compassion, and resilience,” Kathy said. “The last few years have tested us, but this community’s support has never wavered.”

In addition to honoring those selected for this year’s march, the celebration also marked a farewell to Commander Michael Arcati, whose term as commander of the post is coming to a close, and a welcome to a newly campaigned commander who ran unopposed.

“This is my last parade as commander of the post,”Arcati said. “This will be my last official act this week, and my wife gave me permission to go out with a bang. We’ve been working on this since February. This community, this post, these people—we’ve built something special.”

Arcati’s tenure as commander—one that began during the pandemic—helped transform the American Legion from an almost condemned bar into a growing and vibrant hangout for those who had served.

Taking over as commander of the post is Patrick Conley, who was serving as vice commander before being elected to lead earlier this month.

“We are sad to see him go,” said Conley of Arcati. “He’s done a terrific job turning the post around. But he’s not going far.”

When asked how he would run as the new commander of the post, Conley said he would continue the momentum Arcati spearheaded in his revitalization efforts.

The banquet served a packed attendance of between 40 and 50 people, an increase from went

Arcati first led with five people, he claims.

Much of the growth in the American Legion’s presence is accredited to its donors, notably the Forest Hills Asian Association, which helped bring much attention to the ill-forgotten parade and provided at least $100 or more in funding.

There were vital contributions from numerous volunteers and sponsors who sustain the parade year after year.

Michael Reddy, Kathy’s husband and last year’s Civilian Grand Marshal, continues to coordinate parade marchers.

Longtime donors Herb and Heidi Chain, who Mrs. Chain serves as a liaison between the New York Police Department and residents, and were also thanked for their steadfast support.

Commander Arcati reminded everyone that each bus in the parade costs $1,000 and pointed out that the event is fully privately funded and reliant on the generosity of the community.

Another contributing factor to the American Legion’s success in patriotism throughout NYC is seeing a visible embrace as the number of Memorial Day parades has been getting more spotlight and revived since COVID-19.

“This evening is about more than awards. It’s about celebrating the spirit of patriotism and sacrifice that defines us. Wishing everyone a meaningful and safe Memorial Day weekend,” Arcati said.

Near the end of the celebration, a deeply symbolic gesture was made to recognize those who could not be present. The missing man table was described with poignant clarity:

“A slice of lemon on the plate reminds us of their bitter fate. The salt symbolizes the countless tears of families. The inverted glass—they cannot toast with us tonight. The chair is empty—they are not here. The candle is the light of hope that lives in our hearts.”

The room held three solemn silences to honor those still missing in action.

QCP Recognizes Cindy Heller’s Lifetime of Service

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

For nearly five decades, Cindy Heller has been a cornerstone of Queens Centers for Progress (QCP), touching the lives of thousands of children with developmental disabilities and the families who love them. Now, as QCP celebrates its 75th anniversary on June 17, the organization will also honor the retirement of one of its most devoted leaders.

Heller began her journey with QCP on January 2, 1978, fresh out of Columbia University with a master’s in special education. What started as a teaching position soon evolved into a life’s work.

Throughout her 47-year tenure, Heller rose through the ranks—from Special Education Teacher to Director of Children’s Services. Her unwavering dedication and passion helped shape QCP’s pioneering preschool program, the first of its kind in Queens, designed to serve children ages 3–5 with complex developmental needs.

“I started out there was a brand new teacher and I was very, very green,” Heller recalled. “Even when I was a teacher, I looked to increase my responsibilities and do more and more, I became a supervisor of the teachers, then a coordinator, then I became an assistant director, and then now I’m retiring as the director of the Children’s Services.”

Heller’s impact goes far beyond titles. Her leadership has created a nurturing, therapeutic environment where children receive individualized instruction, adaptive play opportunities, and onsite medical support. Families who may have felt isolated or overwhelmed found a trusted ally in QCP—largely thanks to Heller’s vision.

“I always geared to yearn to be with the students and have them get as much out of the life and community and opportunities as everybody else,” she said. “You might have to have different goals, but you can still make a difference in those children and families’ lives.”

Born and raised in Rockville Centre, Long Island, Heller was drawn to the field through volunteer work in her youth. She studied Human Development at Cornell University before pursuing her graduate education at Columbia. She later earned a postgraduate degree from Hunter College.

During her graduate studies at Columbia University, Cindy Heller completed her student teaching in Howard Beach, working with children who had recently been deinstitutionalized from Willowbrook State School—a facility on Staten Island notorious for its inhumane treatment of individuals with developmental disabilities. That experience shaped her lifelong commitment to serving this vulnerable population. When Queens Centers for Progress opened one of the first classrooms in Queens for former Willowbrook residents, Cindy was hired—marking the beginning of a 47-year career. “Queens Centers for Progress was like the first school that said that they would open up a classroom for these former residents from Willowbrook,” she said. “So, I was hired, and it was very exciting.”

Known for her personal connection with students and a leadership style grounded in compassion, Heller made it a point to visit classrooms daily. “All the children should know me, and I should know them,” she said. “Getting that extra hug or hello from them just makes my day.”

QCP staff and leadership describe her as a rare figure whose ethics, empathy, and drive have left a permanent imprint. “They are so ethical in this organization,” Heller said. “They’re extremely ethical. They use their money wisely, and they’re so supportive of staff.”

For Heller, being honored at the upcoming gala feels particularly meaningful. “I’m extraordinarily honored,” she said. “Usually, they just honor, you know, business people in the world… But I was… such an honor that they’re recognizing me as a staff person and recognizing… that I devoted my whole life to QCP.”

As she prepares to retire, Heller looks forward to spending more time with her husband, Randy, their daughter Marissa, son-in-law Dan, and grandchildren Justin and Brooke. “I love theater. I love to travel and seeing my family more,” she said.

Asked what she hopes her legacy at QCP will be, Heller replied, “Just to remember that we have such a quality program and that we strive to have children meet all their challenges in life and for their families to feel supported and part of the community.”

To support QCP’s work, Heller encourages the public to visit queenscp.org, attend the gala, and continue advocating for inclusion. “We want people to be accepting of our children with special needs, and to have us be part of their community, and them as part of our community,” she said.

NYPD Jazz Band Kicks Off the Opening of Astoria Park’s New Performance Center With Sensational Performance

Taylor Dennis

Since 1913, Astoria Park has been a neighborhood staple. People from all over Queens come to this expansive 60-acre park to walk along the East River, admire the Manhattan skyline, practice tricks on their skateboard, run around the track, and picnic in the park. Now locals have the ability to attend free summer concerts at Astoria Park’s new Performance Center.

The night began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The symbolic green ribbon was held and cut by Borough Commissioner at NYC Department of Parks & Recreation Jacqueline Langsam, Center Astoria’s George Stamatiades and Marie Torniali, and others. Once cut, the night kicked off with Commissioner Langsam giving a powerful speech. She expressed just how important this park is to the community and all it has to offer. “There are not many places where you can go swimming while overlooking the East River, Manhattan skyline, and two spectacular bridges. It’s no wonder Astoria Pool is one of the most popular pools,” Langsam stated. “In fact, it’s the largest pool in New York City and serves not only the Astoria community, but the entire borough of Queens and beyond.”

This new center, located at the site of the pool’s former Olympic high-dive, features amphitheater-style seating, sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, and an immersive natural setting. The iconic diving boards remain in place as a tribute to the pool’s historical past. Commissioner Langsam highlighted the unique beauty of the space, stating, “The decorative glass, the art deco metal highlights, the proud Olympic history-not to mention this incredible view.”

Although the performance center looks finished, it’s still not done. As they continue to fundraise, they plan on redoing the pool’s locker rooms and fixing up the rooftop deck that overlooks the skyline. Commissioner Langsam stated, “We are still not done. There’s great beauty and potential for the locker room and the rooftop deck, which is just behind me. I hope you can support our effort to continue fundraising to restore these historic spaces.” The diving platform has been a staple of the community since Robert Mosses built it in 1936. Since then, it’s been used summer after summer. Although the community is sad to see the diving pool go, they are welcoming these new changes. These changes were made possible by Center Astoria’s George Stamatiades and Marie Torniali who advocated for and arranged the entire evening.

The free concert drew families, children, and dogs alike, all gathering to enjoy an evening of incredible music by the NYPD Jazz Band. Off-duty officers were also in attendance, showing support for their fellow peers. Many in the community turned it into a full night out, arriving with baskets of food, toys for their children, and cozy cushions. As the band began to play, spectators from across the park streamed in, eager to grab a front-row seat. Mothers and children danced along, some captured the moment with photos and videos, while others joined in singing along to the music.

NYPD Jazz Band members were absolutely incredible at their craft. Two officers took turns signing popular songs such as Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me,” Gladys Knight & the Pips “Midnight Train to Georgia,” Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely” and many more. As the sun began to set, flood lights came on and lit up the amphitheater, really setting the stage for a great night.

If you missed tonight, don’t worry as there are big plans to continue this concert series all summer long. Stamatiades stated, “There’s gonna be a lot more events here…God bless this terrific jazz band that’s going to make you rock.”

Judge Strips NYC Control Over Rikers Amid Violence Crisis

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

A federal judge has stripped New York City of its authority over Rikers Island, ordering the appointment of a court-controlled “remediation manager” to take over operations at the notorious jail complex after years of what she described as “extraordinarily high” levels of violence and systemic dysfunction.

U.S. District Judge Laura Taylor Swain issued the landmark ruling on May 13, citing the city’s failure to implement mandated reforms despite nearly a decade of federal oversight. The decision effectively removes control of Rikers from the city’s Department of Correction and gives sweeping powers to a yet-to-be-named independent official who will report directly to the court.

The ruling comes after years of escalating violence, misuse of force by correction officers, and in-custody deaths that watchdogs and federal monitors say have worsened since the city agreed to a federal consent judgment in 2015. That agreement was the result of a class-action lawsuit, Nunez v. City of New York, which alleged a pattern of excessive force and inhumane treatment in violation of the U.S. Constitution.

Swain’s decision to appoint a remediation manager follows her November 2024 ruling that held the city in civil contempt on 18 separate counts related to its handling of Rikers. The judge said that repeated violations and “foundational” failures within the Department of Correction rendered further court orders futile without a drastic change in oversight.

The new court-appointed official will wield significant authority, including the power to revise internal jail policies, make hiring and disciplinary decisions, and oversee training and safety protocols. Parties in the case must submit recommendations for the role by August 29.

Council Member Keith Powers released the following statement following the decision by a federal judge to place Rikers Island under the control of a remediation manager:

“For years, Rikers Island has been in a state of emergency. Inmates are forced to live in inhumane conditions, without proper nutrition or medical care, and the situation has become so dire that there has been a steady stream of deaths at the jail – over 100 in the last decade. As one of the first elected officials to call for receivership of Rikers Island, I am relieved that Judge Swain has ordered this change today. The decision to place the jail under the supervision of a remediation manager is a crucial step in the right direction.”

Rikers Island, which houses roughly 6,000 detainees—most of whom are awaiting trial—has long been criticized for its violent environment and lack of mental health support. Roughly 20% of the jail population has been diagnosed with serious mental illness, according to a 2023 report from the city comptroller.

Since 2022, at least 33 people have died in custody at Rikers. In 2023 alone, there were 6,784 use-of-force incidents—a sharp increase from 4,652 in 2016. Federal monitors have raised concerns about unreliable record-keeping and underreporting of violent incidents, including stabbings and sexual assaults.

“Seventy percent of our inmate population is facing violent felony charges,” said Benny Boscio, president of the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association. “That same population is driving the hundreds of assaults on our officers, including sexual assaults, as well as inmate on inmate attacks, which requires necessary, not excessive force, to keep everyone in our jails safe. Outsourcing control of Rikers Island to a federal receiver will not be a silver bullet and will not solve any of these problems. Giving correction officers the manpower and resources to enforce law and order in our jails will.”

Meanwhile, reforms that have been implemented often falter. Body cameras issued to officers in 2020 were recalled in 2024 due to safety concerns and have yet to be reissued. City Council hearings last fall revealed widespread failures in implementing recommended reforms and highlighted disturbing testimony from formerly incarcerated women about long-standing sexual abuse by staff.

Speaker Adrienne Adams released the following statement on the Federal Court Order to Appoint Independent Official Control over Rikers Island Jails.

“Under Mayor Adams’ administration, staff and those incarcerated at Rikers have suffered from an increase in violence and worsening humanitarian conditions, leading to dozens of New Yorkers dying on the island. The federal court’s decision to appoint a remediation manager to oversee changes on Rikers reflects the mayoral administration’s failure to adhere to the Nunez Court Orders and convince the court of meaningful progress to make the jails safer. While this intervention presents a crucial opportunity to bring lasting change to our jail system, the next steps must advance the closure of Rikers and transition to more effective borough-based jails as the solutions for a safer jail system and city.”

The judge’s order raises further questions about the feasibility of the city’s plan to shut down Rikers entirely. In 2019, lawmakers committed to closing the complex by 2026, later pushing the target to 2027. Construction delays and resistance from local communities have cast doubt on the timeline.

Despite those delays, Adams’ administration insists the city remains committed to the closure plan, which would replace Rikers with four smaller, borough-based jails. But Swain’s ruling underscores skepticism that the city is capable of achieving that goal without outside intervention.

Judge Swain’s ruling may be one of the most sweeping federal interventions in a local jail system in recent memory. It reflects years of failed reforms, mounting legal pressure, and a growing consensus among civil rights advocates that the city can no longer police itself.

The next step in the process is the appointment of the remediation manager—a decision that could determine the future of the New York City jail.

Workers Rally on National Day of Action

Sierra Ryan 

sryan@queensledeger.com

The Justice for App Workers coalition rallied on May 1st to demand equitable solutions that recognize the vital role of FHV drivers and delivery workers in the city’s transit ecosystem. The Justice for App Workers coalition joined the call for a national day of action with a rally and strike action at the New York City Department of Transportation to demand an end to unfair bus lane ticketing practices targeting For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) drivers and delivery workers. New York City is home to over 100,000 rideshare drivers and delivery workers who form the backbone of its transportation system.This is the third year of the protest.

FHV drivers and delivery workers play a vital role in New York City’s transportation system, ensuring residents and visitors can travel safely and efficiently. However, current regulations unfairly penalize drivers with bus lane tickets when they are simply doing their jobs.

Drivers and delivery workers often have to pick up passengers, especially the elderly and disabled who can’t make it to the other side of the street, by pulling over in a bus lane in front of their building. Right now, drivers are being unfairly ticketed for stopping in bus lanes while assisting passengers. This causes more stress and problems for the service drivers. Taxi driver and president of  the Utany coalition organization Adagisa Payero talks about the unfair ticketing that happens to drivers “The bus lane has been ticketing drivers for a long time. As of August of last year more buses were installed with an automatic program where automatically once when they see a vehicle blocking the bus lane you get a ticket. So when drivers are providing a service to elderly people or picking up and dropping off a person which should be in a safe area but they have no choice and do it in a bus lane and if the bus comes at that time they get a ticket. This is unfair because then now you provided a service to a passenger so maybe fifteen to twenty dollars then you’re gonna lose fifty or one hundred the ticket is going to come up to that amount or more. So that is the problem. As part of the transportation department we as taxi drivers, we are demanding to be included in the Department of Finances program where they are exempted from being ticketed because we are providing a service to the community.” Payero says.

Safety is another big issue as drivers have experienced having their car stolen from passengers, being hacked and even attacked by customers. Payero talks about the dangers drivers and delivery workers face.“There are some issues when it comes to hacking. We have had drivers who have been hacked with their account and money have been stolen. Some had their phone taken away and things like that. Even their vehicles have been stolen from them by an aggressive passenger. So we are asking the city to consider some safety issues for drivers even delivery workers have been victims of those kinds of issues.” Payero says.

Another issue for service workers is bathrooms. Payero talks about the struggle of drivers and delivery workers not having access to bathrooms “We have been fighting for bathroom services for a while. So what we are trying to do is a lot of restaurants are denying delivery workers access to their bathrooms which they shouldn’t but also we have areas where its very difficult for any driver to stop and use the restroom so we are trying to work a program where drivers and delivery workers can use the restroom in business by showing maybe their id or if they have an order.” Payero says.

The next event will take place on Memorial day. A memorial service will be held for those that have fallen while on the job will be held in honor of the service workers memory “What we do for the memorial is we try to just remember those that have fallen either driver or delivery worker while doing their job and know that we need to continue doing more for the safety of our members drivers and delivery workers to protect them and bring awareness to the city and politicians.” says Payero, “Even one life is too many.”

 

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