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Taste the Best of Queens at QCP’s 29’th Annual Cuisine Event

BQE Admin on February 18, 2025

Courtesy Queens Center for Progress

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Queens Centers for Progress (QCP) is gearing up for a festive celebration of community and culinary excellence at its 29th Annual “Evening of Fine Food,” set to take place on Tuesday, February 25, at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. This highly anticipated event will bring together more than 700 guests for a night of gourmet tastings, mingling, and fundraising—all to support QCP’s mission of empowering individuals with developmental disabilities.

QCP has been serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities for 75 years. Founded in 1950, its mission is to help people live independent, fulfilling, and enriching lives through various supports and services. These services focus on fostering independence, inclusion, and active participation in the community. QCP’s work is dedicated to ensuring that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are able to live full lives, engage with their surroundings, and integrate into the broader community.

The Evening of Fine Food is one of the longest-running food-tasting events in Queens, now in its 29th year. It is a significant annual fundraiser for QCP, and it plays a key role in supporting the organization’s mission. The event features an impressive array of Queens restaurants, local breweries, and other food and beverage vendors who showcase their signature dishes and drinks. The event is described as a “festival of eating and drinking” that gives guests the opportunity to sample the best of what Queens has to offer in terms of food and drink.

Courtesy Dominick Totino

“Our Evening of Fine Food brings together the heart and flavors of Queens, showcasing dishes that reflect our community’s diversity during QCP’s 75th anniversary,” said QCP Executive Director Terri Ross. “Beyond the delicious food, it’s inspiring to know that every ticket purchased directly supports our programs, helping individuals with developmental disabilities pursue fuller, more independent lives. We’re proud to bring people together for a meaningful cause that strengthens our borough.”

The event will honor two individuals with the prestigious “Chefs of the Year” award for their contributions to the community: Dr. Sharon B. DeVivo, EdD, President and CEO of Vaughn College, and Uzoamaka N. Okoye, Chief of Staff at The New Terminal One at JFK Airport. The honorees will not only be recognized for their leadership but will also serve up a family specialty dish, allowing attendees to taste a piece of their personal culinary heritage.

Additionally, QCP will present the Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award to Rachel Kellner, the owner of Aigner Chocolates. Kellner, who has made significant contributions to the Queens community, is being honored for her ongoing support of local businesses and her commitment to giving back to the neighborhood.

QCP Director of Development Wendy Gennaro elaborated on how the event has grown substantially over the years. What started as a small gathering with around 250 attendees and a handful of restaurants has now expanded to welcome over 700 guests, with nearly 50 food vendors. In addition to the food tastings, the event now features a casino, a silent auction, and raffles, with prizes such as airline tickets donated by JetBlue. The growth of the event parallels the expansion of QCP’s services and its reach within the community. Over the years, the event has become a popular fixture of the Queens social calendar, and it provides an important opportunity for residents to come together and network, while also supporting a worthy cause.

“The evening of fine food is a food tasting, and it’s one of the longest running food tastings in Queens, if not all of New York City,” Gennaro said. “This is our 29th year, and what it does is we bring restaurants from all over Queens, and some from other boroughs and even Long Island, but mostly Queens residents and Queens restaurants.”

One of the key reasons for the event’s success is its ability to bring together a wide cross-section of people, including business leaders, community members, and local food enthusiasts. The partnership with Yelp also helps bring in a diverse group of attendees, ensuring that the event is accessible and appealing to all parts of the community. The evening’s casual yet upscale atmosphere, combined with the vibrant food and drink offerings, ensures that it remains a highly anticipated event every year.

Some restaurants have participated since the very first event, including Bourbon Street, Austin’s Ale House, and Marbella Restaurant. Over the years, the food offerings have diversified to reflect the changing culinary landscape of Queens, which is known for its multicultural food scene. Newer additions, such as Khalil Biryani House, which serves Bangladeshi cuisine, and kosher restaurants like Union Bistro and Simcha Palace, offer more options to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences. This inclusivity is essential to ensuring that all attendees feel welcome, and that everyone can enjoy the event’s offerings.

The event has also provided an opportunity for QCP to adapt and grow alongside the changing tastes and needs of the community. Wendy noted that as Queens has evolved, so have the event’s food options, with an emphasis on offering something for everyone, from halal to kosher to vegan selections.

The proceeds from the event directly benefit QCP’s programs, helping the organization continue its mission of providing critical services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As Wendy explained, the event not only generates significant revenue but also raises awareness about QCP’s work in the community. This is particularly important in a time when there is often a lack of events that combine fun with charitable giving. Through this event, QCP has created a space where attendees can enjoy themselves, all while supporting a cause that impacts the lives of many people in the community.

“I think people, the atmosphere and the energy at this event is always really uplifting. People really feel good when they go, when they’re there,” Gennaro said. “The proceeds all go back to our programs and just help us achieve our mission. So really, you know, it’s a win-win for everyone.”

Tickets for the event are priced at $150, which includes access to the food and drink tastings, the casino, and other activities for three hours of entertainment and can be purchased at tinyurl.com/25QCPFineFood.

“We’re proud of the 75 years that we’ve been operating in Queens, and we’re proud of the services and our staff and the support that we get from the community, and appreciate it,” Gennaro said. “Food isn’t just food, you know, is nurturing and it’s a great way to bring people together. So, we hope that everyone will come and check it out.”

Church Leaders Consider Sale Of Property

BQE Admin on February 18, 2025

The historic Transfiguration Church was built in 1962. It sits on Perry Avenue near 64th Street.

With a post in the Transfiguration bulletin this past Sunday, churchgoers of the Maspeth Church were met with a letter explaining the dire financial situation that the condition of the physical structures on the property put the parish through. The letter went on to state that patchwork on the buildings has been done over the years, but their effectiveness has essentially worn out. Originally built in 1909 as a Parish to help Lithuanian immigrants, the current structure was built in 1962. In 2019 it merged into the St. Stanislaus parish, run by its pastor Msgr. Joseph Calise. The property includes the church structure and attached convent, now rented by the Lithuanian Catholic Relief Association, situated on Perry Avenue, just east of 64th Street. The property runs through to Clinton Avenue where the rectory is located. The site is just short of an acre and Msgr. Calise says while he put the financial dilemma in front of the parish council and the financial advisory board, there were currently no options given for the property other than the possibility of a sale. “We’d love to keep the property,” he said, “but with the repairs so costly, I’m not sure it makes sense.”

There are three churches within blocks of each other. Holy Cross, the Polish Parish on 56th Road, just a block away and St. Stanislaus Kostka, on Maspeth Avenue, just two blocks away. St. Stanislaus has one of the most healthy Catholic schools in the diocese. Its school is bursting at the seams, with strong managerial leadership and a vibrant philanthropic arm, quite engaged at making sure the school thrives.  This year the Academy has more than 330 children attending and the reported scholarships gained by the graduating 8th graders into private high schools topped 450 thousand dollars this year.  The families of the children attending the school feed the church, which is in a strong financial position.

Msgr. Calise estimates between 160 and 200 people attend Sunday services at Transfiguration. With the Catholic population no longer filling (the churches) like they once did, “… the burden of keeping the buildings at Transfiguration going is just too financially draining,” said Msgr. Calise, during an exclusive interview this week. “We would have to spend more than a million dollars in needed repairs and upgrades to keep it going.” Calise confirmed that the real estate division of the Diocese made the repair assessment recently and “… going into debt with the diocese for that, without a growing congregation at Transfiguration, well, it just makes sense to sell the property,” he said. Dr. Paul Michael Kazas, president of the Knights of Lithuanian Council #110 has been involved with the church for twenty years. “There are so few Lithuanian churches left. It would be devastating to lose it. This church has been a part of Maspeth for 115 years. Anything can be fixed. All resources have to be considered to save this historic church. It was built in 1963 and there is no other church like it in New York. We should make every effort to save it,” he said.

Proceeds from any sale would likely stay within the parish, however a plan will have to be in the hands of the Bishop of the Brooklyn-Queens Catholic Diocese, Robert Brennan.

The Church and convent sit on the property which is nearly an acre and goes through from Perry to Clinton Avenue.

With Charges Dropped Tone Deaf Calls for Adams to Resign Escalate

BQE Admin on February 18, 2025

By Robert Hornak

With the Department of Justice dropping the charges against Eric Adams, you’d think that all the Democrats who said previously that they didn’t know if Adams could continue to perform his job while fighting a federal indictment should be relieved that he’s now considered in the clear. 

But not in the bizarro world that is New York politics lately. 

After the indictment, Gov. Hochul met with Adams to discuss what he needed to do to hold on until his trial. There were other members of his administration that were implicated, and she insisted that he remove anyone else that was under suspicion. And Adams quickly complied.

Calls for his resignation died down as everyone realized that Adams was in trouble not just legally but politically. His poll numbers are as bad as they get and the chance he could win reelection is nonexistent. 

Now the DOJ has dropped the charges, freeing Adams to at least continue working for the next few months without the pressure of a trial until city voters engage in the generally accepted method to replace elected officials they no want, an election. 

But rather than feeling relieved that one of their own dodged a bullet and won’t go through the spectacle of a big trial, they are all melting down and losing their minds. Why? Because Adams is doing what he said he would do, work to deport illegal immigrants, especially those who have committed crimes, in cooperation with the Trump administration, which is doing exactly what everyone knew they would do. 

And THIS is what is causing all the controversy. Not that Eric Adams may have broken campaign finance laws, but that he might uphold immigration laws and work with federal authorities in doing so. 

However, now that the charges have been dropped, the case for removal of Adams from office is no longer a legal argument but now entirely a political attack for supporting a policy that many NYC Democrats object to. And it is not at all clear that Hochul has the power to remove the mayor without legal charges hanging over his head. The NYS Constitution states, “The mayor may be removed from office by the governor upon charges and after service upon him of a copy of the charges and an opportunity to be heard in his defense.”

What charges would Hochul press to make the case for removal? Even in this crazy new world they can’t seriously argue that Adams following federal law – and cooperating with the President of the United States, who received 77 million votes just a few months ago to take action on issues exactly like this – is what Democrats in NY see as his offense. 

But that is exactly what they are saying. Top Democrats, including Lt Gov Antonio Delgado, are now aggressively calling for Adams to resign or be removed. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez posted on social media, “As long as Trump wields this leverage over Adams, the city is endangered. We cannot be governed under coercion. If Adams won’t resign, he must be removed.”

And this is the left’s spin. That Adams must be under coercion to follow federal law, even though he has stated very clearly that this situation is unsustainable and that those here illegally who commit other crimes must be deported. It’s actually mind-boggling to think anyone could disagree with that. 

And yet, this is where the Democratic Party is today. While Hochul, who is likely to face a tougher than expected reelection herself next year, is not rushing to take action on this, she realizes what most of us realize. This is all just politics. 

 

Robert Hornak is a professional political consultant who has previously served as the Deputy Director of the Republican Assembly Leader’s NYC office and as Executive Director of the Queens Republican Party. He can be reached at rahornak@gmail.com and @RobertHornak on X.

 

 

NYC Housing Crisis Worsens as Advocates Fight Airbnb’s Proposed Bill

BQE Admin on February 13, 2025

Courtesy Tenants Not Tourists

By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com

A new coalition of housing advocates, Tenants Not Tourists, has emerged in New
York City to oppose a controversial bill that they argue would worsen the city’s
ongoing housing crisis. Launched in December, the coalition includes 43
organizations, ranging from tenant groups and unions to churches and human rights
advocates, all united in their opposition to Intro 1107. This piece of legislation,
currently under consideration by the New York City Council, has garnered support
from Airbnb and aims to allow short-term rentals in one- and two-family homes.
Critics argue that this could turn residential properties into tourist
accommodations, further exacerbating the city’s already severe housing shortage.

The coalition warns that allowing more short-term rentals would result in
thousands of homes being taken off the rental market, driving up rents and
intensifying the affordability crisis in New York City. This shift, they say, would also
undercut the progress made by Local Law 18 of 2022, which was designed to
regulate short-term rentals (STRs) and ensure that housing remains available for
long-term residents. Under the current law, only homeowners who live on the
property are allowed to rent out their homes for short-term stays. However, the
proposed bill would eliminate this key provision, potentially enabling landlords to
lease properties to tourists without even being present, leading to unchecked
growth in short-term rentals.

“New York City cannot afford to lose any more homes,” echoed the coalition. They
argue that while proponents of the bill claim it would benefit homeowners, it would
instead encourage real estate speculation and drive-up housing costs, ultimately
displacing long-term residents. Moreover, the coalition asserts that allowing short-
term rentals in these neighborhoods would not only hurt tenants but also expose
homeowners to greater risks, particularly those in vulnerable financial positions. As
the city faces a growing foreclosure crisis, advocates warn that the bill does little to
address these underlying problems.

The coalition also highlights the broader impact of the bill, particularly how it would
benefit large investors and private equity firms. These firms have increasingly been
buying up properties in New York, including one- and two-family homes, flipping
them into short-term rentals or reselling them for profit.

Whitney Hu, a coalition member from Churches United for Fair Housing, pointed out
that this trend disproportionately harms communities of color, where private equity
firms exploit the lack of regulations to make significant profits.

“You’re competing against Wall Street in the housing market,” said Hu. “For many
residents, there’s no way to win when these large investors are in the game.”

While the bill would make it easier for landlords to convert units into short-term
rentals, critics argue that this could also lead to entire buildings being turned into
transient accommodations, as has already been seen in some neighborhoods.

“We’ve seen entire buildings turned into Airbnbs,” Hu said, emphasizing how these
properties, originally meant to be stable homes for families, have instead been
transformed into sources of short-term profit. This shift, she argues, undermines the
integrity of local communities, creating an unstable and transient population, rather
than one with deep, long-term roots in their neighborhoods.

“This bill aims to fix an overly restrictive short-term rental law that, in the last year, has failed to decrease rents in NYC and only increased hotel rates exorbitantly for travelers,” Nathan Rotman, Director of Policy at Airbnb. “The bill makes common sense and marginal updates to the existing law by allowing one- and two family homeowners in New Yorkers to share their primary homes and yet, the big hotel chains are using scare tactics to exploit one of the biggest social challenges of our time to boost their profits with sky high nightly rates – it’s time to fix a broken law that hasn’t helped housing but has padded hotel industry pockets at everyone else’s expense.”

Although Local Law 18 of 2022 marked a step forward in regulating short-term
rentals, Hu expressed concern that efforts by companies like Airbnb to push for
legislative carve-outs could weaken enforcement of these protections. She argued
that any attempt to roll back these laws would set a dangerous precedent,
particularly in neighborhoods already experiencing high levels of displacement due
to gentrification and market pressures.

In addition to concerns about short-term rentals, Hu emphasized another key issue
facing New York City’s housing market: the growing influence of private equity in
purchasing properties. Many of these firms have been buying up one- and two-
family homes and converting them into short-term rental units, further driving up
rents and making housing less affordable for long-term residents. According to Hu,
these private equity firms are exacerbating the housing crisis by speculating on real
estate, driving prices up, and pushing local residents out of their communities.

Despite these challenges, Hu and her colleagues maintain that there are alternative
solutions that can address the housing crisis without opening the door to more
short-term rentals. One such solution, proposed by New York City Comptroller Brad
Lander, involves creating a city-run home-sharing platform that would allow
homeowners to rent out their properties in compliance with state law. Hu explained
that such a platform would offer a more regulated and equitable way to connect
homeowners with renters, ensuring that the housing market remains stable and fair.
“This would be a much more sustainable option, one that pairs New Yorkers with
homeowners in a way that falls within the law,” she said.

Advocates are also pushing for other forms of financial relief for homeowners, such
as mortgage assistance, that would allow them to stay in their homes without
resorting to short-term rentals. Hu stressed that it is essential for policymakers to
find solutions that balance the needs of both homeowners and renters, especially
given that the majority of New Yorkers are tenants.

On January 23, Tenants Not Tourists, a coalition of housing advocates, tenant groups,
labor organizations, and New York City renters, rallied outside City Hall with
prominent figures such as NYC Councilmembers, Comptroller Brad Lander,
Assembly Members Zohran Mamdani and
Harvey Epstein, and others to demand the rejection of Intro 1107.

“Rolling back the strongest Airbnb protections in the country will not solve the
affordable housing crisis that is pushing New Yorkers out of the city,” said New York
City Comptroller Brad Lander at the rally. “Homeowners are also feeling the crunch,
but that doesn’t mean we should put the burden back on renters through prices
New Yorkers can’t afford. We need to look to other models for shared living to
connect homeowners with spare rooms with renters in a way that ensures
transparency and accountability while truly alleviating the housing crisis.”

The coalition shared a letter signed by 43 housing and tenant rights organizations,
urging Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and Housing Chair Pierina Ana Sanchez to
stand with the majority of struggling New Yorkers and reject Airbnb’s efforts to
undermine the housing market. At the rally, Darius Gordon, Executive Director of
the Met Council on Housing, emphasized that passing the bill would incentivize
private equity buy-ups, allowing landlords to take homes off the rental market,
further exacerbating the housing shortage and driving up rents.

“The City Council has promised to address our historic housing crisis and provide
stable, affordable homes, but it cannot do that by passing legislation that would pull
the rug out from under tenants and roll back regulations on our housing supply.

Airbnb’s bill would create loopholes that incentivize private equity buy-ups and
allow landlords to take thousands of homes off the rental market, driving rents up
and making our housing shortage even worse. We’re not going to let Airbnb and
other real estate vultures use our homes for profit without a fight, which is why
we’re urging the Council not to take their bait and reject this dangerous bill,” said
Gordon.

“It’s important to ask who is funding this alleged tenants group that has the funds necessary to buy television advertising and whose bottom line those funders are working to protect. This is clearly about protecting the rising prices Hotels are charging in New York City, not about tenants,” Rotman said.

As the debate continues, Tenants Not Tourists is urging New Yorkers to take action
by contacting their local council members and expressing their opposition to the
bill. They have also created a platform on their website, tenantsnottourists.com,
where residents can join the fight by filling out a form to get involved.

QCP recognizes Rachel Kellner’s Community Impact

BQE Admin on February 13, 2025

 

Rachel Kellner, the owner of Aigner Chocolates, is gearing up to receive the prestigious Claire
Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award at the upcoming 29th Annual Evening of Fine Food
hosted by Queens Centers for Progress. This event, known for celebrating the diverse culinary
scene of Queens, will honor Kellner and many others for their significant contributions to the
community and the ongoing efforts to support local businesses and residents.

Aigner Chocolates, founded in 1930 as Krause’s Candy Kitchen, has become a beloved part of
the Forest Hills neighborhood under Kellner’s leadership. With her unique background as a
licensed clinical social worker, Kellner brings a compassionate, community-focused approach to
the business.

“My background is as a social worker, and I worked in drug addiction for 10 years. Now I help
enable addiction, chocolate addiction that is,” she said, blending her expertise in social work
with her love for creating joy through delicious treats.

Under Kellner’s guidance, Aigner Chocolates has grown into more than just a candy shop; it’s a
community institution that prides itself on its inclusivity and dedication to giving back. Aigner
Chocolates is home to a diverse, predominantly female-led management team, and the
business holds certifications from WBENC, NYC, and NYS, reflecting its commitment to both
excellence and social responsibility.

Kellner’s passion for community engagement was especially evident during the COVID-19
pandemic, when Aigner Chocolates donated over $30,000 worth of chocolates to spread joy
and hope to those in need. Beyond this, Kellner has been instrumental in supporting local
schools, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations, ensuring that Aigner Chocolates is not only
known for its high-quality confections but also as a source of healing and support.
In addition to running Aigner Chocolates, Kellner co-founded Metro Village of Forest Hills, an
informal business alliance that later became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Born out of the challenges of
the pandemic, particularly after a burglary at Eisner Chocolates, Metro Village aims to support
and promote businesses along Metropolitan Avenue, fostering collaboration and mutual support
among local entrepreneurs.

Kellner’s dedication to her community is deeply personal. She lives, works, and raises her son
in Forest Hills, and her belief in the importance of community is evident in everything she does.

“I think because people that own small businesses tend to live, work and enjoy themselves in
the community,” Kellner said.

The Claire Shulman “Spirit of Community” Award, named after the late Queens Borough
President who was known for her transformative work in the borough, is given to individuals who

exemplify the values of community, leadership, and social responsibility. Kellner’s upcoming
award is a recognition of her tireless efforts to serve the Queens community, both through her
business and her philanthropic work.

“I’m always trying to find ways to give back to the Forest Hills Community and just to the
Queens community at large,”Kellner said. “And we’ve done a lot of work doing that over the
years. With the chocolate shop and through Metro village. And so, I feel incredibly privileged to
even be in the same sentence as Claire Shulman. I look forward to continuing to commit myself
to all the ways that I can give back to the Queen’s community over my career.”

As Aigner Chocolates continues to thrive, Kellner remains focused on the core values of social
responsibility, community engagement, and excellence that have guided her business from the
beginning.

“I look forward to honoring Claire and what she’s done for the Queen’s community by
continuously recommitting my efforts to the Queen’s community every day,” Kellner said.

The 29th Annual Evening of Fine Food, hosted by Queens Centers for Progress, will take place
on Tuesday, February 25, at Terrace on the Park in Corona. This event, which supports adults
and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Queens, promises an
unforgettable evening of food, drinks, and entertainment. For more details and to purchase
tickets, visit tinyurl.com/25QCPFineFood.

Drew Seskunas Bridges Art and Architecture in New Installation

BQE Admin on February 13, 2025

Courtesy Drew Seskunas

 

By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com

 

Drew Seskunas, a Queens-based architect and artist, has been selected as a recipient
of the prestigious 2024 Art in the Parks: Alliance for Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Grant and has since built a momentous sculpture. The grant, which is now in its fifth
year, is designed to support the creation of two site-specific artworks by local artists
within Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. These installations aim to enhance the cultural
landscape of the park and offer new opportunities for engagement through art and
programming. Each grantee is awarded $10,000 to realize their vision, and Seskunas
was chosen and in turn created, ‘What is the Opposite of a Black Hole?’

The Art in the Parks initiative, organized by the Alliance for Flushing Meadows-Corona
Park, helps to transform public spaces into vibrant cultural destinations. The grant
supports the development of art projects that engage the local community while
celebrating the park’s history and significance. For Seskunas, the creation of this
sculpture was an opportunity to explore and highlight the scientific contributions of
remarkable individuals who lived in Queens, a borough with a rich yet often overlooked
history of scientific innovation.

Seskunas grew up in Baltimore before moving to New York nearly two decades ago,
where he pursued graduate studies in architecture. With a deep interest in the
relationship between the built environment and the human experience, Drew’s work
reflects a fascination with how the spaces we create shape our understanding of reality.
Initially trained in traditional architecture, his career evolved when he spent several years
working in Europe with a Belgian artist. This experience expanded his perspective,
leading him to blend architecture with art, furniture design, and sculpture.

He believes in the interconnectedness of all creative fields and pushes the boundaries of
what it means to be an architect, continually challenging the notion that one must strictly

belong to a singular discipline. He has since founded a practice in Brooklyn, called
SAW.EARTH, where he works directly with materials, developing a hands-on approach
to design that allows him to connect more deeply with his work and inspire others,
especially young architects, to do the same.

The ‘What is the Opposite of a Black Hole?’ sculpture, located adjacent to the New York
Hall of Science, is a striking prismatic ring made from a mirror-polished material. The
ring is engraved with the names and stories of six influential scientists who lived in
Queens, including Dr. Marie Maynard Daly, the first African American woman to receive
a Ph.D. in chemistry in the United States, and Dr. Lisa Randall, a leading physicist
known for her research in higher dimensions and particle physics.

“The idea was to create a sculpture that celebrated the stories of these six scientists that
lived in Queens, and I thought, wouldn’t it be interesting to kind of create a sculpture that
celebrated all these people that you know, I don’t think a lot of people know about, but
they contributed so much to our understanding of the world,” Seskunas said.

In creating the sculpture, Seskunas sought to celebrate the achievements of scientists
whose contributions are not widely known, yet have had a profound impact on the way
we understand the universe.

“I’ve always just been interested in kind of the relationship between the human world and
like the world that we build for ourselves and the world that we inhabit, how we interpret,
understand everything else through that world,” Seskunas said.

The concept for the artwork was inspired by a visit to the New York Hall of Science,
where Seskunas pondered the concept of a black hole—an object in space that absorbs
everything around it, including light.

The process of developing and constructing the sculpture took nearly a year. After initial
research and idea development, Seskunas spent three months refining the concept and
designing the sculpture. Once the design was finalized, he dedicated another six months
to fabricating the piece in his studio, working closely with materials to bring his vision to
life. The installation, which was completed in October 2024, will remain in place for one
year.

“When you make a sculpture in a really highly trafficked public park like Flushing
Meadows, you know you have to deal with how people treat it,” he said. “I think that was
probably one of the most difficult things. Like if somebody accidentally did something to
it, that it wouldn’t get damaged. There’s a downside to having it in such a public place,
but the upside is that you really get to interact with it, and for me, that’s the only point of
doing it. To try to create something around how I see and understand the world, and then
try to connect, create connections with other people through that piece.”

The design process, while complex, was an incredibly personal and fulfilling experience
for Seskunas.

“I really think that everything in the world that we inhabit is valid and interesting,
everything from like, a door handle to a chair to a church or a large building, or the
artwork that we make, and that’s kind of what’s so special about it, “he said. “I think it’s
all part of some kind of secret language. And how we communicate, we don’t really know
exactly what the language is, but we all tend to understand it, and it helps us kind of
communicate in ways that we don’t typically communicate.”

Seskunas admitted that one of the most gratifying moments came when he completed
the installation. The public reception to the sculpture has been overwhelmingly positive.

“I grew up loving Legos, so I always like to design sculptures that are part of systems
like that,” he said.  “And I think there’s a relationship between what are the parts that
you’re making and what the end result is.”

As for the legacy of the sculpture, Seskunas hopes it will inspire visitors, particularly
those from Queens, to learn more about the extraordinary individuals who contributed to
scientific progress.

In addition to his current project, Seskunas is involved in a number of exciting
endeavors. He is leading a student workshop at the New York Institute of Technology,
where students are designing and constructing a greenhouse for the School Street
Community Garden in Williamsburg. Additionally, Seskunas is working on a new series
of lighting fixtures, set to debut at Nomia, a fashion and design store in Williamsburg.

NYC Students Experience Anne Frank’s Legacy Through Exhibit

BQE Admin on February 13, 2025

Credit John Halpern

 

By MOHAMED FARGHALY
mfarghaly@queensledger.com

 

The grand opening of Anne Frank The Exhibition launched at the Center for Jewish
History in Manhattan at 15 W 16th St on January 27, offering a unique educational
experience for students and educators. The exhibition, a collaboration between the Anne
Frank House and the Center for Jewish History, is designed to immerse visitors in the
history of Anne Frank’s life and legacy through a full-scale recreation of the Annex where
she and seven other Jewish refugees hid during World War II.

The exhibit features a meticulously recreated version of the secret annex where Anne
penned her now-famous diary, offering students a chance to step into the space that has
captivated generations of readers. It is the first time that such an experience has been
presented outside of Amsterdam.

“Anne Frank’s words resonate and inspire today, a voice we carry to all corners of the
world, nearly eight decades later. As a custodian of Anne’s legacy, we have an obligation
to help world audiences understand the historical roots and evolution of antisemitism,
including how it fueled Nazi ideology that led to the Holocaust,” Ronald Leopold,
Executive Director of the Anne Frank House said. “Anne’s legacy is remarkable, as
represented in the diary she left us, and as one of the 1.5 million Jewish children who
were murdered at the hands of Nazi officials and their collaborators. Through this
exhibition, the Anne Frank House offers insights into how this could have happened and
what it means for us today. The exhibition provides perspectives, geared toward younger
generations, that are certain to deepen our collective understanding of Anne Frank and
hopefully provide a better understanding of ourselves.”

Anne Frank The Exhibition is a limited engagement, now extended through October 31 and has already drawn significant attention.
Schools from across the United States, including from New York, California, and points

in between, have booked visits, making the event a major educational resource for
students and educators nationwide. Special funding has allowed the Anne Frank House
to subsidize visits from Title I schools throughout the country, with complimentary
admission for New York City public school students thanks to the Gray Foundation.

“We believe the best way to address the alarming rise in antisemitism is through
education. Our Foundation’s support of Anne Frank The Exhibition exemplifies our
ongoing commitment to expand access to ensure all students and schools have the
resources and opportunities they deserve. We are honored to enable free field trips for
New York City public schools to this groundbreaking exhibition as we work to empower
the next generation of learners across our city,” said Mindy and Jon Gray, Co-Founders
of the Gray Foundation.

The exhibition is a response to rising concerns over antisemitism in the United States.
According to the Anne Frank House, Jewish people remain the most targeted group in
the country, and hate crimes against other marginalized groups are on the rise. The
exhibition is part of an ongoing effort to educate younger generations about the
Holocaust and its continuing relevance.

The Anne Frank The Exhibition also includes more than 100 original artifacts from the
Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, many of which have never before been seen in the
United States. Artifacts such as Anne Frank’s first photo album, a handwritten invitation
to a film screening, and verses written by Anne in her friends’ poetry albums will provide
a powerful glimpse into her life before and during her time in hiding.

The exhibition is made possible through philanthropic partnerships, with significant
contributions from Barbra Streisand, Mindy and Jon Gray, and the Fuhrman Family
Foundation. Streisand, who has long supported Holocaust education, emphasized the
importance of such exhibitions in today’s climate.

In addition to the exhibit, the Anne Frank Center at the University of South Carolina is
developing a curriculum to support the educational goals of the exhibition. The
curriculum places antisemitism in its historical context and helps students understand its
role in the rise of Nazi ideology and the Holocaust.

“Anne Frank’s story provides a compelling window into the past, one that helps students
understand the dangers of bigotry and the importance of never being a bystander,” said
Doyle Stevick, Executive Director of the Anne Frank Center at the University of South
Carolina and educational advisor to the exhibition. “At a time characterized by a
disheartening rise in antisemitism, The Anne Frank Center is working to ensure that
teachers and students have the high-quality Holocaust education resources they need to
learn about the Holocaust and its relevance today.”

The exhibition will be housed in a 7,500-square-foot gallery space in Union Square and
aims to reach up to 250,000 students during its limited run. It has already sold tens of
thousands of tickets, signaling strong interest in the exhibition’s educational offerings.

For New York City students, Anne Frank The Exhibition offers an invaluable opportunity
to engage with history in a deeply personal and immersive way. The exhibition brings
Anne Frank’s story closer to home, allowing students to experience a full-scale
recreation of the annex where she hid, making the events of the Holocaust tangible and
real. For many, this will be their first direct connection to a history that continues to
shape our world today. With New York City being a hub of diverse communities, the
exhibition provides a powerful space for students to reflect on the dangers of prejudice,
racism, and antisemitism, encouraging them to learn from the past and become active
participants in creating a more inclusive future. Through free access for public school
students, the exhibition ensures that all students, regardless of background, can benefit
from this

As the world marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, Anne Frank The
Exhibition serves as a reminder of the consequences of hatred and bigotry, while
providing an invaluable resource for students and educators to reflect on the history and
lessons of the Holocaust.

For more information or to schedule a visit, tickets can be purchased at
AnneFrankExhibit.org.

Brad Lander Wants to be Mayor – Will New Yorker’s Vote for Change?

BQE Admin on February 13, 2025

Brad Lander’s Bid for Mayor: A Progressive Vision for NYC

MOHAMED FARGHALY

Mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Brad Lander, the current city comptroller and former City Council member, is setting his sights on New York City’s highest office. With a track record of progressive legislation and a deep commitment to affordable housing, education, and public safety, Lander believes it is time for a new kind of leadership in the big city. He is running as a Democrat, hoping to capitalize on his years of public service and his passion for improving the city he loves.

Lander visited the Queens Ledger office for a sit-down roundtable interview, where he shared insights into his vision for the city and his plans as a mayoral candidate.

Lander’s story begins far from New York City, in his hometown of St. Louis. He moved to the city at the age of 23, enchanted by the borough’s vibrancy, energy, and promise. From that moment, he immersed himself in the fabric of the city — in its neighborhoods, people, and, eventually, its politics. Now, at 50, he is ready to take the next step in his journey and offer his vision for the future of New York.

“I love this city. I’ve lived here for 27 years now, and every day I’m inspired by the people, the culture, and the energy here,” said Lander, who resides in Park Slope, Brooklyn, with his two children.

Since 2021, he’s served as comptroller, a role he describes as being the “city’s watchdog,” managing pension funds and auditing government contracts. There’s only one rung higher in city government, and that’s mayor — a post for which Lander will be on the ballot, come November.

But roughly eight months out, the race is already crowded. Lander is one of nine candidates who have announced mayoral bids, and that’s not counting former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who leads the polls but has yet to officially enter the fray. To win, he would have to overcome the embattled incumbent, Eric Adams — Politico has called Lander the current mayor’s ‘archrival’ — and distinguish himself from a pack of progressives with similar policies, including state Senator Jessica Ramos and Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani. In the process, he’ll have to navigate two hot-button issues which many view as weak points for New York Democrats: affordability and public safety.

A poll by the Manhattan Institute gives Lander the best odds of challenging the controversial heavyweights, Cuomo and Adams. Courtesy of the Manhattan Institute.

“People are pissed off with government that’s not working for them,” Lander told the Queens Ledger during the roundtable. “People feel like the cost of living is going through the roof: the rent’s up, home prices are up, child care costs so much that I can’t afford to live here. It doesn’t feel safe and secure, and I don’t see government fighting for me.”

Lander’s path to public service began at the age of 23, when he was hired by the Fifth Avenue Committee to help turn around a neighborhood facing an affordable housing crisis. His work was pivotal in securing properties for hundreds of residents, ensuring that they could remain in their homes despite growing pressures to gentrify the area.

This early success ignited Lander’s passion for policy that directly impacts the lives of working-class New Yorkers. As a City Council member, Lander championed a range of progressive initiatives, including raising the minimum wage for city workers, creating affordable housing, and advocating for better public education. He also co-founded the New York City Progressive Caucus, helping shape the city’s legislative agenda in a way that prioritized the needs of marginalized communities.

During his tenure, Lander was instrumental in pushing through major development programs in Brooklyn, including the creation of affordable housing units in areas like Gowanus. The once-polluted area has seen the development of over 8,000 new housing units, 3,000 of which are set aside as affordable.

As current Comptroller of New York City over the last four years, Lander has played a pivotal role in improving the city’s fiscal management and advocating for its residents. One of his key accomplishments has been his focus on enhancing the city’s contracting process. His office has worked tirelessly to streamline operations, ensuring that contracts are registered on time and reducing delays that have historically plagued nonprofits and small businesses. Lander has also prioritized better oversight of city spending, aiming to eliminate waste and improve efficiency in how taxpayer dollars are utilized, all while making sure that public services reach the communities that need them the most.

Another significant achievement in Lander’s tenure has been his advocacy for improved transparency in the city’s financial operations. He has worked to make the city’s budget more accessible and understandable to the public, ensuring that New Yorkers are informed about where their tax dollars are going. Additionally, Lander has championed initiatives that promote stronger worker protections, such as his efforts to push for higher wages for city employees and greater support for workers facing difficult economic conditions.

Under his leadership, the office has saved taxpayers over $2 billion and registered more affordable housing projects than any previous comptroller. He’s proud of the work, but he believes more needs to be done.

Affordable housing remains at the heart of Lander’s mayoral campaign. His “Housing First” plan is the cornerstone of his 75-page policy proposal to combat the city’s growing housing crisis. The plan focuses on prioritizing housing for New Yorkers, especially those coming out of institutions like Rikers Island, where individuals often have no housing plan upon release.

Lander recognizes that New York’s affordable housing crisis is compounded by the mental health challenges many of its residents face. He is committed to addressing both issues simultaneously, working to remove the mentally ill from the streets and subways and into housing that includes necessary services.

“The root issue with affordable housing is that our housing stock has not kept pace with demand,” said Lander. “Meanwhile, more than 2,500 vacant units remain in the city, and people are still struggling to find homes they can afford.”

Lander is also a vocal advocate for tenants’ rights. He co-sponsored the landmark “Right to Counsel” law, ensuring that every tenant in New York City will have access to legal representation, thus preventing illegal evictions and preserving affordable housing options.

Subway crime in particular has become the flashpoint for conversations around safety, and left-leaning candidates like Lander have taken note. In an interview with the New York Editorial Board last December, he acknowledged that “progressives, including myself, were slow to respond to the growing sense of disorder coming out of the pandemic,” and at the roundtable he reaffirmed his support for more proactive security measures, albeit with a caveat.

“Look, sometimes you do still need involuntary hospitalization,” Lander said, adding that as mayor he would expand law enforcement’s ability to mandate people perceived as ‘dangerous’ to undergo medical examination, a proposal that was seen as fraught in 2022 when it was rejected by state Democrats, yet which — in another sign of a Clinton-esque sea change within local politics — now has broad approval. “And I support more officers in the subway, especially at night, which is what the governor is doing. But the real answer is getting people connected to housing with the services they need.”

That response might seem predictable, since it dovetails nicely with Lander’s background as a housing advocate, an experience that continues to inform his approach to the city’s problems writ large.

Lander’s vision for New York includes a balanced approach to crime and public safety, one that strengthens both law enforcement accountability and the support systems for those at risk. While he is a staunch advocate for police reform, he recognizes the importance of keeping the city safe.

A key part of his plan is to create a deputy mayor for public safety, who would work with the NYPD to ensure effective crime prevention strategies are in place. Lander supports current police commissioner Jessica Tisch and wants to invest more in police training, as well as reducing recruitment requirements to address the city’s current shortage of officers.

“I believe that public safety is best achieved when there is accountability and trust,” said Lander. “We need a system where officers who misuse force are held accountable, while also ensuring our officers are well-trained and supported in their work.”

Lander is deeply committed to supporting the diverse cultural fabric of New York City, regularly participating in cultural events such as Diwali and Ramadan Iftar celebrations. He sees the city’s diversity as its greatest strength, but acknowledges that it also presents challenges.

“Queens is the most amazingly diverse borough in New York City, and it’s a place where people from all over the world come together and share their cultures,” Lander remarked during an interview. “I want to make sure that no matter where you’re from, no matter what your background, you feel welcome and supported in this city.”

In a city with a growing immigrant population, Lander has taken action to support policies that protect immigrants, such as opposing the turn-over of undocumented immigrants to federal authorities. His progressive stance on immigration is reflected in his response to the Trump administration’s policies, and he believes New York should lead by example in ensuring the safety and well-being of all its residents.

At the core of Lander’s mayoral platform is a desire to make New York more affordable and accessible to all. His ultimate vision is a city where families can live without fear of displacement, where crime is kept in check, and where education and housing are accessible to everyone.

Lander is also a strong proponent of a more efficient government, using his experience as comptroller to propose reforms aimed at saving money for taxpayers. He believes that by shifting responsibility for claims against the city to the agencies responsible for the problems—such as traffic crashes and police misconduct—the city can save billions of dollars each year.

“People want to stay in New York City because it’s the most remarkable city on the planet,” said Lander. “But it has to be more affordable. People should be able to raise their kids here, have a job they can live on, and live in a place where they feel safe. That’s the city I want to create.”

Lander’s campaign is built on the belief that a better, more responsive government can be the answer to the challenges New Yorkers face. His elevator pitch to residents is that he’s less corrupt than the big name candidates, and more proven than the small ones. In that sense, he’s positioning himself as a foil both to Cuomo and Adams — who have a track record of getting things done, but also skeletons in their closets — and to his fellow progressives, whom he portrays as honest yet less battle-tested.

Jack Delaney contributed reporting.

Photos Courtesy Mohamed Farghaly

 

Timeline: Superbowl, Adams Charges, Egg Prices

BQE Admin on February 12, 2025

Philadelphia Eagles Win Second Superbowl Title Against Kansas City Chiefs

The Philadelphia Eagles conquered the Kansas City Chiefs in last week’s Superbowl, giving the city its second title in NFL history. Led by coach Nick Sirriani and quarterback Jalen Hurts, the Eagles won 40-22, crushing the Chiefs’ hopes of a three-peat, which would have made them the first team to win three Superbowls in a row. After losing to the Chiefs two years ago, the Eagles succeeded in claiming the title, confident by halftime with a lead of 24 to 0. Jalen Hurts was chosen as MVP of the season, besting rival Patrick Mahomes throughout the game. 

 

Rare Sighting of Deep-Sea Anglerfish Blows Up on Social Media

The frightening deep-sea anglerfish known as the “black seadevil” made an unusual and rare appearance in the shallow waters off the coast of Africa earlier this month. Caught on camera, the fish swam toward the surface for unknown reasons. Anglerfish, which are characterized by the bioluminescent lure that protrudes from their face, are known to stay in the dark depths of the sea, from 600 to 6,000 feet down. Previously, most photos and videos of the anglerfish have been from dead specimens or taken from submarines near the bottom of the ocean. Social media quickly took to the fish, who was far from her home. Researchers reported that it is not known why the fish was swimming in the relatively shallow waters.

 

Elon Musk Pressures FEMA to Halt Federal Funding for NYC Migrant Housing

Elon Musk, who President Donald Trump appointed as head of the Department of Government Efficiency, has blasted the Federal Emergency Management Agency on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. Musk posted “just discovered that FEMA sent $59M LAST WEEK to luxury hotels in New York City to house illegal migrants,” to which the acting administrator of FEMA, Cameron Hamilton, agreed and responded that the payments had been halted. Elon Musk did not provide documentation to support his claim, and the City of New York says any funds they were granted was done so by Congress from the previous year. New York City spokesperson Liz Garcia also reported that the city has not been notified of the supposed halt in federal funding.

 

President Trump Plans to Eliminate Pennies

President Donald Trump spoke openly about his plan to eliminate pennies in the United States, writing on his Truth Social platform “For far too long the United States has minted pennies which literally cost us more than 2 cents.” The Department of Government Efficiency has agreed, writing that each penny costs over three cents to mint, making them more expensive to produce than they are worth. Like many of Trump’s proposed plans, it is not clear whether he can bring them to fruition by himself. Usually, matters to do with minting fall under the purview of Congress. However, many lawmakers have attempted to diminish the production of the penny, meaning Donald Trump could have significant allies. Some proponents of the penny disagree with the plan, claiming businesses in America will round-up to the nearest five cents, making everything more expensive. Several other countries have discontinued one-cent coins in previous years, including Canada.

 

Department of Justice Tells Prosecutors to Drop Adams’ Charges

This week, Trump’s appointed acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove sent an official memo to federal prosecutors telling them to dismiss all charges against Mayor Eric Adams. The memo says the case may be reviewed after the November mayoral election, but no further investigations should be performed. Adams’ charges, of which he has pleaded not guilty, include wire fraud and bribery. Although Adams is a Democrat, he has worked with President Trump since the election, even telling NYC authorities to cooperate with ICE raids. The Deputy Attorney General claims that the federal investigation into Adams has hampered his ability to deal with the migrant crisis within the city. If federal prosecutors decide to drop the charges, it must then be approved by a judge. 

 

Restaurants Introduce Egg Surcharge Due to Rising Prices

Restaurants throughout the country, most notably the chain Waffle House, have now added an egg surcharge to customers due to rising costs. The bird flu outbreak that has decimated American chicken populations is not only affecting grocery stores now, but eating out as well. Some surcharges are clocking in at an extra 50 cents, sometimes more for those who want to eat eggs at restaurants. Experts say that the price of eggs is unlikely to drop significantly by spring, as the bird population has to be rebuilt and come to maturity before egg stock is back to normal. 36 million birds have died since October, adding up to 10% of America’s egg laying fowl. 

When Will Mayoral Candidates Get the Message?

BQE Admin on February 12, 2025

By Robert Hornak

Last week a Democratic consulting firm released a poll they conducted of likely Democrat primary voters for the upcoming mayoral race. And it had some eye-opening findings. 

As you’d expect, these voters want whoever is mayor to be able to stand up to President Trump. These are prime Democrats, of course. But after that, the issues that received very high levels of support were the same as every other voter in NYC, fighting crime, making NYC safer, and ending the migrant crisis. 

So, you’d think that the numerous candidates running who want to replace embattled Eric Adams as mayor next year would listen to their own voters and start to moderate their positions based on this enlightening information. After all, if they all continue to push hard left at a time when their own voters are moving back to the center, they open the door for a well-known moderate, namely Andrew Cuomo, to get into the race and walk away with the nomination. 

Cuomo’s numbers in this poll were exceptionally high, and in a ranked choice voting simulation they determined that if the election were held now Cuomo would win in only a few rounds with 58% of the vote, after starting at a commanding 44% in the first round. 

And Cuomo hasn’t even declared his candidacy yet. That means that Democrat primary voters are looking at their current field of declared candidates – including Eric Adams and DSA favorite Zohran Mamdani – and saying nope, none of these are the person we are looking for. 

Well, none of this seems to have sunk in with the candidates. At a mayoral forum last week that included former City Comptroller Scott Stringer, current City Comptroller Brad Lander, state Senator Jessica Ramos, state Senator Zellnor Myrie, and Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, every one of these candidates doubled down on the policies their own primary voters are rejecting. 

It was just revealed that illegal migrants are now costing the city $7 billion, that’s Billion with a B, money that could be going to help the mentally disturbed living on our streets, education, or parks. Or to pay for the multitude of environmental regulations they want to impose on legal residents, such as the brutally expensive local law 97, which they all support. 

Stringer, considered the most moderate in the current field, said, “Eric Adams has been hurting migrants, people undocumented for his whole term as mayor, and nobody has come to the rescue. We needed someone to stand up and do the numbers and say very clearly that our migrants, our undocumented workers, are the heart of our economy.”

That is shockingly tone deaf. Does anyone really think it hurts illegals to put them up for months at a time in luxury hotels, at taxpayer expense? Most people would argue that those here illegally are substantially contributing to the increase in crime, to the decline in quality of life, and are taking precious resources away from other needs we were already struggling with before. 

All the candidates also seemed to think that a top priority should to be to “stand up” to traditional energy companies. At a time when wind and solar projects are having trouble competing and still only provide around 5% of our total energy, and with Con Edison just announcing they are seeking massive rate hikes for the coming year on top of recent hikes, Mamdani offered incredible insight into this problem, claiming that fossil fuel companies like BlackRock only care about money, not morals or principles. As if there is a morals and principles surcharge on our electric bill.

Democrat voters also want housing to be more affordable. Heating and cooling your home is part of that cost, and NY is driving that cost up dramatically. And for no reason than radical policies against the one thing we all use every day. There were no ideas discussed on how to bring the cost of energy down, or to make these radical conversions to everything electric they want to force on homeowners less financially painful. 

These candidates refuse to listen to their own voters, and they will ultimately pay the price. A strong centrist candidate is likely to jump into the race, and it will very likely be Andrew Cuomo who the NY political establishment hates but the voters appear to want, desperately. 

Robert Hornak is a professional political consultant who has previously served as the Deputy Director of the Republican Assembly Leader’s NYC office and as Executive Director of the Queens Republican Party. He can be reached at rahornak@gmail.com and @RobertHornak on X.

 

 

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