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Flushing Airport Redevelopment to Deliver Thousands of New Homes

BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

Courtesy  S9 Architecture

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

New York City Mayor Eric Adams on Sunday announced plans to transform the long-vacant Flushing Airport in Queens into a new community featuring 3,000 homes and 60 acres of open space, marking one of the largest housing proposals on city-owned land in decades.

The $3.2 billion redevelopment will be led by Cirrus Workforce Housing and LCOR Incorporated. Officials say it will create more than 1,300 union construction jobs and over 500 permanent careers. Construction is expected to begin in 2028, following the city’s land use review and environmental approvals.

“For too many decades, this valuable land has sat vacant, but our administration said it was time to change that,” Adams said. “We issued a landmark executive order to build housing on city-owned sites like this one and now, we are excited to announce we will create around 3,000 new homes at the site of the former Flushing Airport.”

The project will be financed and built with union pension dollars and labor. Developers plan to incorporate sustainable construction, explore the use of mass timber, and design wetlands-compatible landscaping that includes walking paths, sitting areas and wildlife habitat.

“The redevelopment of the former Flushing Airport will deliver thousands of affordable and accessible homes that are financed by, built by, and lived in by union workers, as a result of our partnership with Cirrus and Mayor Adams,” said Gary LaBarbera, president of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York.

Originally opened in 1927, Flushing Airport was once the city’s busiest airfield before being decommissioned in 1984. Since then, the site has largely reverted to marshland. Adams said the plan will repurpose a piece of Queens history into homes for working families.

“At the dawn of modern aviation a century ago, Flushing Airport made history as New York City’s first-ever airfield and eventually the busiest airport in the five boroughs. But today, we’re beginning the process of repurposing that incredible piece of Queens’ history into a critical aspect of Queens’ future,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr.

Union leaders and labor groups hailed the announcement as a turning point for affordable workforce housing in the city.

“This transformative project to build working class housing will be built by the members of Building Trades unions such as Steamfitters Local 638,” said Robert Bartels Jr., business manager of the union. “As a union, we have the simple belief that if you build something, then you should be able to afford to live in it.”

Joseph McDonnell, managing partner of Cirrus Workforce Housing, said the development would prioritize middle-class New Yorkers. “Cirrus looks forward to collaborating with local elected officials, labor unions, community organizations, and residents to bring this transformative project to life,” he said.

Adams has pledged to build 500,000 new homes by 2032, calling the city’s housing crisis “generational.” Officials said the Flushing Airport project will play a critical role in that goal, alongside rezonings and other city-led housing initiatives.

“This proposal is exactly what working New Yorkers have been waiting for — thousands of new homes, good union jobs, and a healthier future for our communities,” said Joseph Azzopardi, business manager and secretary treasurer of the District Council 9 of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades.

Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry said the housing could also help keep police officers and first responders in the city they serve. “This development is a welcome step toward making it easier for New York City police officers and our fellow first responders to live in the city we protect,” Hendry said.

NYCEDC President and CEO Andrew Kimball said the project will strike a balance between growth and preservation. “The redevelopment of the former Flushing Airport is finally ready for take-off,” Kimball said. “We are thrilled to work with Cirrus and LCOR to transform this long-vacant site into a mixed-use project that will deliver thousands of workforce housing units, new public green space, and other community amenities all while protecting and preserving the wetlands.”

Andrew Sokolof Díaz Honored for Tenant Rights Activism


BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Andrew Sokolof Díaz, a lifelong Jackson Heights resident and dedicated community advocate, was presented the Irma E. Rodriguez Queens Community Builder Award on June 12, 2025, in recognition of his persistent efforts to unite neighbors and safeguard affordable housing in Queens.

The award, established in 2013 by Queens Community House (QCH), honors Queens residents who embody humility, tenacity, kindness, courage, compassion, and collaboration—qualities that the late community leader Irma E. Rodriguez championed throughout her life. The annual Celebrating Local Heroes event also recognized Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. for his leadership in advancing community values amid challenging times.

Sokolof Díaz’s commitment to tenant rights and community resilience has been unwavering. Born, raised, and now raising his family in Jackson Heights, he co-founded the 89th Street Tenants Unidos Association with his wife Jacqueline in 2017. This grassroots group played a critical role in preserving 133 units of deeply affordable housing, protecting longtime residents from displacement in an increasingly gentrified neighborhood.

“I’m a Queens kid. I was born here in Jackson Heights. I’m still here in Jackson Heights. I’m raising my son here with my wife at our building that we return to where we run the tenants Association,” Sokolof Díaz said.

His activism gained new urgency during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many tenants faced job losses and food insecurity. Sokolof Díaz organized a food mutual aid network within his largely Latino immigrant building and helped lead a successful rent strike. “The pandemic, people had no food, literally. So we had to bring food every week from wherever we could for months,” he recalled.

In April 2021, an eight-alarm fire devastated several rent-stabilized buildings in Jackson Heights, displacing over 500 residents. The fire, sparked by an electrical fault in a senior’s apartment, led to months of uncertainty and threats of demolition. Sokolof Díaz and fellow tenant leaders mobilized legal aid, local nonprofits, and elected officials, including a high-profile press conference with Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, to demand humane treatment and long-term housing solutions.

“We were able to save the buildings overall, which is another big feat for us. It’s 132 units of really deeply affordable housing,” he said, noting that more than 90% of displaced families returned home after two years.

He credited the strength of community networks for this success. “There’s a lot of community support in Jackson Heights, the restaurants and the people that like brought us thanksgiving meals when people were still living in hotels with their children. That made it humane,” Sokolof Díaz said.

His advocacy extends beyond his immediate neighborhood. He has supported families affected by other fires in the Bronx and Sunnyside and is actively engaged with coalitions like FED-UP and Jackson Heights Indivisible, opposing private development on public land, including a contentious casino proposal.

Sokolof Díaz is firmly opposed to the proposed casino development in Flushing Meadows Park. Speaking from his experience as a tenant advocate, he called the casino plan “one of the most egregious, like thefts, that’s being sanctioned by all of our elected officials.” He emphasized that such projects threaten working-class communities by driving displacement and worsening affordability, saying, “I’m completely, completely opposed to any idea of a casino, let alone in this part of Queens, but in any working-class community.”

In his view, protecting tenants from displacement is inseparable from broader fights against economic and social injustice. “We’re under attack on all fronts in Queens, the working class communities, the immigrant communities here, are all under attack at all angles economically. It’s so important that we’re here, so that we’re not just like responding, but we’re able to push back,” he said.

Receiving the Irma E. Rodriguez Award was a meaningful milestone for Sokolof Díaz. “Personally? It means a lot. I’ve never been personally recognized for, for what I’ve been doing for, I guess, a decade or so now. It feels great. It feels really nice to be recognized,” he shared. Still, he emphasized the collective nature of community work: “It also shows that there’s, like so many other people out there that are, aren’t, you know, necessarily being recognized, but being elevated, so they can do the work they do.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. praised QCH’s role in fostering community during turbulent times. “What we have to do especially during this time, when we see civil rights under attack, women’s rights under attack, immigrant rights under attack, democracy under attack, we have to make sure that every community feels seen in our borough,” Richards said.

Queens Community House, celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, serves over 26,000 children, youth, adults, and older adults annually across 40 sites in 15 neighborhoods. Executive Director Ben Thomases highlighted the organization’s mission: “In a world of increasing division and social isolation, QCH remains committed to building a Queens where everyone belongs.”

When asked what advice he would offer new organizers or residents interested in tenant advocacy and mutual aid, Sokolof Díaz said simply, “Don’t hesitate. You know, just, just talk to your next door neighbor, and that’s all it takes is to just begin talking to each other. Sometimes we’re looking for heroes and others to come save us, and it’s, it’s us, you know, who, who have the answers.”

Sokolof Díaz also acknowledged the personal sacrifices involved in his activism. “I was displaced in the fire with my wife and my infant son at the time. It’s very hard for people to organize and do this when they have their own families. I want to thank my wife and son, my family and friends who I lost time with and who sacrificed to support the work that I undertook to protect our affordable housing and mitigate our displacement” he said.

 

Astoria Welfare Society Honors Officer Gabriel Tobar for Outstanding Community Service

BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

Astoria Welfare Society USA Inc. has honored NYPD Officer Gabriel Tobar of the 114th Precinct for his significant contributions to the Bangladeshi-American community in New York. A recognition ceremony was held on Monday evening, August 4, at a local restaurant in Astoria.

The event commenced with a moment of silence to honor Detective Didarul Islam Ratan, who was fatally shot by an armed assailant while on duty on Park Avenue in Manhattan. Attendees also reflected on his life and service to the city.

The program was presided over by Shohel Ahmed, President of the Astoria Welfare Society, and conducted by General Secretary Jabed Uddin. Distinguished guests included Dr. Masudur Rahman, NYPD Sergeants Michael Murphy and Asmat, Abu Taher (Editor of Bangla Patrika and CEO of Time Television), senior journalist and author Saeed Tarek, and Shahab Uddin, President of Al-Amin Mosque.

Speakers included Shamsul Haque, founder of the Bangladesh American Police Association (BAPA), BAPA member Syed Enayet Ali. Vice President of the AWS koyes Ahmed, advisor committee Chowdhury Saleh, Abdur Rahman, Dewan Shahed Chowdhury and among others. Officer Gabriel Tobar was presented with a commemorative plaque in recognition of his dedicated community service.

Leaders and members of the Astoria Welfare Society were present in full support, making the event a heartfelt tribute to both past and present contributors to community safety and cohesion.

Glendale Kiwanis Puts The Fun in Fundraising At Myrtle Avenue Street Fair 2025

BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

Christian Spencer

Children tugged at their parents’ hands as the scent of grilled chicken and sweet funnel cakes drifted down Myrtle Avenue.

Some jumped around with excitement while others perched on the edges of their strollers as parents soaked in the sights and sounds of this year’s Myrtle Avenue Street Fair, a lively block party presented by the Glendale Kiwanis Club.

Money raised from vendor sales and ride admissions supported youth programs and community initiatives like scholarships, youth sports, and neighborhood cleanups, something the civic group has been doing for more than seven decades.

Beyond fundraising, the July 20 celebration was about bringing Queens, and even Brooklyn, neighbors together. It was a moment when local vendors wanted not only to sell but also to share in the fun.

“I just want people to have a good time and enjoy our strawberries and our agua frescas,” said Vanessa Dominguez, who runs La Mera La Coca, offering free samples to entice new customers.

Nearby, Randy Nueva’s booth drew anime fans and curious passersby with colorful plant pots inspired by Pokémon and Studio Ghibli films.

“We do street fairs. We started with animated planters for, like, ourselves, and then people just started asking if we did them, so we started a business, and we sell planters now,” he said about his small business, Nena’s Garden.

While Kiwanis did not hold a booth this year, its presence was felt through its partners. The Myrtle Avenue Business Improvement District helped organize the event, while FDNY and NYPD teams were stationed at key points to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow.

For visitors, the fair was just as much about the experience as the shopping.

“I always go to the fair for food,” said Justin Guiracocha, who enjoyed chicken shish kebabs that reminded him of flavors from his Ecuadorian culture.

His friend, David Quito, mirrored the sentiment, saying the event felt welcoming and lively.

“I felt like it was really an experience that I really enjoyed because everywhere I felt comfortable. There was a lot of police, a lot of family, a lot of people. The food was amazing,” he said.

Future of the Vote: NYC Teens Step Into Democracy

BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Seventeen New York City high school students are spending their summer as part of the 2025 NYC Votes Youth Ambassadors program, learning how to mobilize their peers around civic engagement and the electoral process as the city heads into another busy election year.

The program, now in its sixth year, is run by the NYC Campaign Finance Board (CFB), a nonpartisan, independent city agency that oversees local campaign spending and administers the city’s public matching funds program. Under its NYC Votes initiative, the ambassadors receive training in voter outreach, community organizing, and local history while hosting events to help increase youth voter participation across all five boroughs.

“This is really an initiative for New York City High School students who want to get more involved in community organizing, and specifically from the lens of youth voter turnout and getting their communities engaged in the voting process,” said Olivia Brady, the program’s manager. “Not only do they learn about voting, how to vote, how to get registered, what it means to be pre-registered. We also really take a holistic approach, where we learn from community organizers across the city. We look at local history, and we also take field trips every Thursday. We just came back from the Transit Museum.”

Brady said youth voter turnout is consistently the lowest of any age group across New York City, regardless of the type of election. She noted that the South Bronx and East New York in Brooklyn show some of the weakest participation rates among young voters, while communities such as Corona, Jackson Heights, and Flushing in Queens, and Sunset Park and Borough Park in Brooklyn, also face barriers tied to language access. “Voters under 30 have consistently the lowest turnout out of any age group,” Brady said. “However, the South Bronx, the entire South Bronx, and also East New York and Brooklyn, have extremely low youth voter turnout… we also have a few other priority communities that you know are also kind of primarily focused on reaching voters who speak a language other than English.”

The ambassadors — all under the age of 17 and collectively speaking seven languages — were chosen from a competitive pool of more than 500 applicants. This year, 16 students were selected, with priority given to neighborhoods with historically low youth voter turnout, such as the South Bronx and East New York.

“This is our sixth cohort. I should also emphasize that this is a paid program as a part of our commitment to equity and really ensuring that youth who are most impacted by the issue of low voter turnout can participate,” Brady said.

For many students, the experience has been their first introduction to hands-on civic engagement.

“My name is Isa Hernandez. I’m from Queens. I’m 18, and I’m also a high schooler. I applied to this program in May, and have been having so much fun supporting my community ever since,” said one of the new ambassadors.

Another, Gulshan Aachol, said: “Hi. My name is Gulshan, I’m also from Queens. I live in Astoria. I’m a high school student. I’ve also been having so much fun in the ambassador’s program.”

Both students said the program has broadened their perspective on politics and activism.

“I really wanted to take that opportunity, because I’m just recently getting into civic engagement, and I feel like I am interested in it, but I’m not educated in politics and just so much stuff like that,” Hernandez said. “And like, being a part of the Youth Ambassador Program has given me so many opportunities to learn so many.”

Aachol added: “Honestly, I didn’t think I was gonna get it just because of how un-educated I was. But I think that just goes to show how many like different people were taking in, and how many different communities were trying to engage because like, this is the first step.”

Ambassadors spend their weeks visiting museums, conducting research, and hosting civic events, including canvassing and text-banking. They also split into committees — research, marketing, and press — to examine voter behavior and community perspectives.

“In my committee, basically what we’re doing is we are researching or conducting interviews with people about the matching funds program and their opinions on it, and how that kind of shifts their opinions on voting,” Aachol said. “And like we’re just analyzing these things, and we’re just giving key takeaways on our interviews.”

The program is designed not only to train future voters, but to address systemic barriers to participation in underrepresented communities.

“I will see like we are the next generation at the end of the day,” Aachol said. “Even outside of school, people don’t think about the things going around in their communities, and they just don’t have enough, like engagement about it. And just like you have to be interested in voting, and you have to learn about the things in your community, not just voting, but you have to know about the things going around you, because we are the next generation, the way we shape our world is really important.”

Hernandez agreed: “I think it’s important, because the data shows that we are people under 29 — 18 to 29 — are the least in voter turnout, and if we move that number up, it could definitely make a difference. And I will say, also, I would like to piggyback what Gulshan said, we are the next generation, and sooner or later, we will have to worry about policy, even if we think we won’t have to worry about it.”

Some of the ambassadors are already exercising their right to vote.

“Yes, I actually participated in my first election. I voted in the primary,” Hernandez said. “That was my first voter experience, and I am excited to continue using my voice. And yeah, I’m definitely gonna become a certified voter.”

For Aachol, the program has sparked excitement about casting her first ballot: “I actually just pre-registered to vote. Many people don’t know, but you can pre register to vote at the age of 16 or 17, as long as you’ll be 18 by the time of the next election. So I am really excited. You can, like, pre-register on our website nyc.org.”

Brady said that’s exactly the kind of change the program is designed to inspire.

“It’s really important for young people to have access to this information so that they can take that information and feel empowered to themselves participate,” she said. “But also, you know, to help get their communities tapped in.”

Coffee Pro Celebrates One Year in Astoria with a Cash Giveaway

BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

Coffee Pro, Astoria’s favorite halal café, bakery, and coffee shop, is celebrating a major milestone — its 1-year anniversary on August 31st, 2025! To mark the occasion, they’re giving back to the community that made it all possible with an exciting cash giveaway.

Located at 23-33 Astoria Blvd, Queens, NY 11102, Coffee Pro has become a cozy and welcoming destination for locals looking for freshly brewed coffee, homemade pastries, and halal-friendly bites. Over the past year, it’s grown into a neighborhood staple — and now, they’re ready to celebrate in a big way.

As a part of the celebration, Coffee Pro is inviting customers to enter their 1-Year Anniversary Giveaway. To participate, customers simply need to join the loyalty program and submit a receipt of $40 or more on their website. Three lucky winners will be selected to win $100, $200, or $300 in cash!

“This first year has been a blessing,” says owner Mohammed, reflecting on the shop’s journey. “We opened Coffee Pro to create something meaningful for the community — and the love and support we’ve received has been incredible. This giveaway is just a small way of giving back.”

Manager Kholoud adds, “We’ve had so many regulars become like family. Seeing people connect, relax, and enjoy what we serve — that’s what it’s all about. We’re so thankful to be part of this neighborhood.”

To enter the giveaway and join in the celebration, visit yourcoffeepro.com, sign up for the loyalty program, and upload your receipt before August 31st.

From the entire team at Coffee Pro: Thank you, Astoria! Here’s to many more years of coffee, community, and connection.

Booking.com Partnership Lets Creators Monetize TikTok Travel Videos

BQE Admin on August 15, 2025

TikTok is expanding its role in social commerce by bridging the gap between travel inspiration and direct booking. In a strategic partnership with Booking.com, the platform now allows users in select markets to explore hotel options, compare prices, and confirm reservations without ever leaving the app.

Alongside this, TikTok is rolling out an enhanced version of its TikTok Go program in the U.S., designed to give travel content creators a direct opportunity to earn commissions or receive travel vouchers for promoting bookable properties.

Seamless Booking Within the TikTok Experience

Participating hotels receive dedicated in-app landing pages that showcase everything a traveler might need to decide: room rates, amenities, guest reviews, nearby attractions, and TikTok videos featuring the property. Users can select their dates and complete their reservations directly through Booking.com’s embedded system—keeping the entire process, from discovery to booking, within TikTok.

This approach transforms user-generated travel content from passive inspiration into an actionable step toward booking, effectively positioning TikTok as both an entertainment platform and a revenue-driving channel for the travel industry.

TikTok Go: A New Gateway for Creator Earnings

TikTok Go is designed to simplify travel-related affiliate marketing for creators. Eligibility requires a clean account history, a follower count of at least 1,000, and a minimum age of 18. Once approved, creators can choose their location and access a list of promotional tasks from hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

These assignments might include creating property walkthroughs, reviewing local dining spots, or highlighting unique experiences. Successful completion can lead to commission-based earnings or travel perks. While Booking.com hasn’t disclosed exact commission rates, the model closely mirrors established affiliate programs, aligning creator rewards with tangible results for hospitality brands.

Strengthening TikTok’s Social Commerce Strategy

This collaboration is part of TikTok’s broader strategy to merge content and commerce. While TikTok Shop has focused largely on physical goods, the platform has steadily been adding service-based and experience-based offerings to its portfolio.

Past integrations have included in-app ticket purchases for events and cinema through partners like Ticketmaster and Fandango. Extending this model to travel represents a move into higher-value transactions. TikTok’s “Places” tab—which already serves as a hub for exploring destinations—naturally feeds into this initiative, making it easier for users to transition from inspiration to booking in a single environment.

For hotels and travel brands, this means reduced friction in the purchasing process and increased exposure to high-intent travelers through TikTok’s powerful recommendation engine.

What This Means for Marketers

For marketers in travel and related industries, TikTok’s Booking.com integration creates a unique blend of influencer marketing, affiliate partnerships, and native e-commerce. Key points to consider include:

  • Tracking Performance: Accurate attribution will be essential, as TikTok manages the entire booking journey.
  • Choosing the Right Creators: Commission models may attract a wide range of influencers—ensuring quality and brand alignment remains critical.
  • Exploring New Verticals: Trademark filings suggest TikTok Go could soon expand beyond hospitality into dining, retail, and other experiences.
  • Staying Competitive: TikTok’s move positions it against both traditional online travel agencies and search platforms introducing booking features.

Looking Ahead

While questions remain over payout transparency, brand safety, and creative control, this partnership signals TikTok’s ambition to evolve from a platform for discovery into a fully integrated booking channel. As with TikTok Shop, the challenge will be maintaining quality while scaling accessibility for brands and creators alike.

For now, the message to travel marketers is clear: the boundaries between storytelling, influencer content, and direct sales are dissolving. Those who adapt quickly will be best placed to capture both the attention of TikTok’s audience and the bookings that follow.

Doctor Explains Legionnaires’ Disease Amid Deadly NYC Outbreak

BQE Admin on August 14, 2025

Courtesy NYC.Gov

3 Dead, 24 Hospitalized in NYC Legionnaires’ Cluster

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

A recent cluster of Legionnaires’ disease cases in Central Harlem has raised alarm in New York City as the Department of Health reports 81 infections, including 24 hospitalizations and three deaths, over the past two weeks. The outbreak has prompted plans to increase enforcement, penalties, and reporting requirements for building water systems suspected to be sources of infection.

Dr. Andrew Fleming, chief of infectious diseases and hospital epidemiologist at NYU Langone Health spoke extensively about the disease, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures amid the ongoing outbreak.

“As an infectious disease doctor, I see all sorts of patients with a variety of infections, including Legionnaires’ disease,” said Fleming. “It’s a subspecialty, I completed my training about three or four years ago, and I’ve been the hospital epidemiologist here for the last year and a half or so, and that involves investigating, outbreaks and performing preventive measures to reduce infections in the hospital.”

Courtesy Legionnaires Disease News

What is Legionnaires’ Disease?

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by the bacteria Legionella, which naturally inhabits water sources including rivers, lakes, and coastal seawater. The bacteria also thrive in man-made water systems. “We all are exposed to Legionella bacteria in small amounts all the time,” Fleming explained. However, only certain species typically cause human infection.

“The disease usually occurs when the Legionella bacteria in a water source become aerosolized — turned into a vapor — that people inadvertently breathe in,” he said. This aerosolization can happen through cooling towers, air conditioning systems, and water fountains.

Legionella bacteria can cause two types of illness: the more serious Legionnaires’ disease, which results in pneumonia, and a milder, self-limiting flu-like illness called Pontiac fever.

Fleming stressed the populations most at risk for serious infection: “People with compromised immune systems, those on immunosuppressive medications, older adults especially over 50, smokers, and individuals with pre-existing lung conditions are at increased risk.”

Why Now? Why Harlem?

Legionnaires’ outbreaks are more common in the summer months when water temperatures exceed 75 degrees Fahrenheit, conditions favorable for bacterial growth. Additionally, increased use of air conditioning and cooling towers during hot weather creates opportunities for bacteria to spread.

“Cooling towers circulate water and release hot water vapor that can contain Legionella,” Fleming said. “There is actually a requirement in New York State for all conditioning water towers to be registered, and they are supposed to be treated yearly with with chlorine to reduce that risk of bacteria growth at least above a certain level. And so there’s lots of water towers around or cooling towers around the city. And if you’re not up to date on on your maintenance, that could be a potential risk. So in the summertime, we tend to think of those as major risk factors in New York City.

The current outbreak is localized to five zip codes in Central Harlem, complicating efforts to identify the exact source. “Water vapor from these cooling towers can actually distribute over quite a large area,’ Fleming said. “It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly which cooling tower is the source. As of right now. I think the most you know critical thing for people to be aware of is that it does seem to be localized in one geographic area, in Central Harlem.”

Severity and Public Health Response

With three deaths confirmed and numerous hospitalizations, the outbreak is serious. The city’s Department of Health is “working very diligently to limit the scope” of the outbreak, Fleming said, though the exact source has not yet been identified.

The Health Department plans to intensify oversight of water systems linked to the spread of Legionella, imposing stricter enforcement and penalties to ensure compliance.

Symptoms and When to Seek Care

Legionnaires’ disease often begins like a common flu: fever, body aches, fatigue. However, if symptoms persist beyond two days, or if a person develops cough, headaches, diarrhea, or shortness of breath, medical attention should be sought promptly.

Myths and Misconceptions

Fleming highlighted a key misconception: “This is not a contagious infection. There is no person-to-person transmission. It’s not like COVID-19.” The risk comes exclusively from environmental exposure to contaminated water vapor. “So you cant get it from your neighbor or your roommate, but obviously those who are in an affected geographic area can have the same environmental risk factor if they are living near an infected cooling tower. So you still need to be aware of those and know that you know it is out there, and especially if you’re living in this area, know the symptoms to be on the lookout for, so that you can get started on treatment soon.”

Advice for Building Owners and Residents

Building managers and landlords are urged to ensure their cooling towers are tested and disinfected yearly as required, and to file the proper reports with the Department of Health.

“But obviously, there’s a lot of cooling towers, and the Department of Health only has so much capacity,” Fleming said. “So, a lot of this, you know, unfortunately, is the responsibility of the individual proprietors and owners of these cooling towers to to be aware of the regulations and make sure that they’re up to date.

Outlook

Fleming is optimistic that the outbreak will be controlled soon. “The fact that all of the cases so far seem to be localized in one specific geographic area, you know, I would say for the general public who don’t live in that geographic area, I don’t think there’s any cause for, you know, concern or alarm, it’s not going to spread to their area, and as long as the Department of Health continues their investigation, I expect the outbreak in Central Harlem should be under control soon,” he said.

For residents outside the affected area, Fleming advises no cause for alarm, emphasizing that the disease is linked to specific environmental sources.

What You Need to Know:

Legionnaires’ disease is caused by inhaling water vapor containing Legionella bacteria.

It mainly affects people with weakened immune systems, smokers, and older adults.

The current outbreak is focused in Central Harlem with 81 cases and 3 deaths.

Cooling towers and air conditioning systems are common sources.

Early symptoms mimic the flu; seek medical care if symptoms persist or worsen.

The disease is not contagious person-to-person.

NYC Health Department is stepping up enforcement of water system regulations.

Courtesy Doctor Fleming

Queens man fatally shot while visiting Puerto Rico for Bad Bunny concert

BQE Admin on August 14, 2025

Queens Man Dies in Puerto Rico Shooting

Courtesy Mares Family

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

A Queens man visiting Puerto Rico to attend a Bad Bunny concert was fatally shot early Sunday at a nightclub in San Juan’s La Perla neighborhood, authorities said.

Kevin Mares, 25, of East Elmhurst, was an innocent bystander when a fight broke out between two men at Refugio de Hombres Maltratados just before 4:15 a.m., police said. One of the men pulled out a gun and opened fire, striking Mares in the left side of his abdomen, according to local Puerto Rican authorities.

Mares was rushed to Puerto Rico’s largest public hospital, where he died. Two other men from the area were also shot and remained hospitalized, Ruiz said. The suspected shooter has not been identified, and the investigation is ongoing.

Mares had traveled to Puerto Rico with his girlfriend, her brother and a friend for the trip. His girlfriend stayed at the hotel that night, while Mares went out with the others, his parents said. They had warned him about venturing out late.

A veterinary technician on Long Island, Mares was studying to become a veterinarian. He was a devoted fan of Bad Bunny and had already seen the Puerto Rican superstar perform multiple times. His family said he had been preparing to propose to his girlfriend of six years this fall.

“Kevin had a bright future ahead, with plans to propose … and he was always creating memories with those closest to him,” his family said in a statement. “Family was at the center of everything he did, and his sudden passing has left an unfillable void in our lives.”

Mares’ relatives are raising money to bring his body back to New York for a funeral. They said the process will cost about $23,000. A GoFundMe campaign has been created to help cover transportation and funeral expenses at Frederick Funeral Home in Queens.

“This past weekend, while in Puerto Rico celebrating with friends and preparing to attend the Bad Bunny concert, Kevin was tragically caught in the crossfire of a shooting,” the GoFundMe reads. “Your support will help us honor Kevin’s memory and give him the farewell he deserves.”

La Perla, located just outside the historic district of Old San Juan, is a seaside shantytown once notorious for drug trafficking and violence. For decades, police avoided the area, which even had signs warning visitors to stay away. A 2011 federal raid and dozens of arrests brought improvements, and the neighborhood gained international attention after being featured in the hit song “Despacito” by Puerto Rican singers Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee.

In recent years, the community has welcomed more tourists, but violence has not disappeared entirely. In February 2023, three tourists were stabbed after being told to stop filming in the area. In April 2024, a 24-year-old man from Delaware was killed and his body set on fire after an attack linked to a drug purchase, according to police.

To help Kevin’s family bring him home and cover funeral expenses, consider donating at tinyurl.com/KevinMares.

Courtesy PuertoRico.com

Queens Officials Rally to Strengthen Flood Defenses for Future Storms

BQE Admin on August 14, 2025

Officials Demand Flood Warning Signs After Bay Terrace Flash Flood

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards joined Council Member Vickie Paladino, State Senator John Liu, and community advocates in Bay Terrace on Friday, August 8, to demand the installation of flood warning signage and enhanced storm mitigation measures after heavy flooding submerged parts of the Cross Island Parkway at the end of July.

The gathering took place near 208th Place and the Cross Island Parkway, the site where several cars were trapped underwater during the intense flash flood on July 31. Officials called on the New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) to promptly place signage alerting drivers to the flood risk during severe weather conditions.

The flooding occurred after a cloudburst dumped over six inches of rain in less than an hour, overwhelming the drainage system. In addition to vehicles stranded in the floodwaters, dozens of nearby businesses reported up to a foot of water flooding their basements.

Borough President Richards emphasized the need for both immediate and long-term solutions. While acknowledging that large-scale flood infrastructure would take time to implement, he said the installation of warning signs are of upmost importance and DOT should act on without delay.

He advocated for a “holistic” flood mitigation strategy, including street signage and measures designed to absorb and reduce excess water.

Council Member Paladino, whose office worked tirelessly during and after the flood, affirmed the urgency of the situation. They did not stop that day until all relevant agencies were contacted, she said, including the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Department of Small Business Services. Paladino stressed that while local residents know the area’s flood risks, many motorists unfamiliar with the neighborhood do not.

“People need to know that this is a flood zone,” she said.

Senator Liu highlighted the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, urging coordination between city, state, and federal agencies to protect residents. He condemned the Trump administration’s cuts to over $300 million in funding for flood protection and climate resilience projects in Queens and New York State.

Matthew Silverstein, president of the Bay Terrace Community Alliance and a longtime resident near the flooded intersection, described the situation vividly: “We joke in this neighborhood, it’s called Lake Bay Terrace. When it rains, it started down by the shopping center. It actually moved all the way down past the overpass, and it’s putting people’s lives in danger.” Silverstein urged for warning signage and legislation to implement “spongifying” infrastructure.

He recalled previous meetings with officials and said, “We asked the city as a first step for signage. We understand it’s going to take a long time to put up great infrastructure, but they were the ones that brought up signs in the first place when we were here, not us… We have horrifying images of people standing on top of their cars… trying to avoid drowning water, which came in less than an hour.”

Paul DiBenedetto, vice president of the Bayside Historical Society and Community Board 11 member, recounted the storm’s intensity during his drive along the Clearview Expressway on the day of the flood.

“So I was driving north on the Clearview, especially the day of the storm. The storm was so intense, I missed 35th Avenue. I drove right past it… I couldn’t see to the right. I couldn’t see to the left. I could barely see through my wiper blades on full speed.”

As an “amateur historian,” DiBenedetto noted that while severe storms are not new, the increasing frequency is alarming and underscores the reality of climate change. He praised Paladino for her dedication to clearing storm drains promptly.

“The water did accumulate, and then it went away. But that accumulation is unacceptable. We have to get that water out of here in the first place. And we can’t have cars driving into it,” DiBenedetto said, endorsing the installation of flood warning signage as a crucial initial step.

During the press conference, Richards also addressed the importance of bipartisan support for climate resilience funding. “Infrastructure is supposed to be a bipartisan issue. It’s not Republican or Democrat when these storms hit. No one cares what your affiliation is, rain doesn’t discriminate,” he said.

When asked about resistance from DOT to install signs, Paladino explained, “Think about what we’re talking about. We’re talking about signs, folks. How hard is it to get a sign from DOT? They’ll give you bike lanes overnight. They will extend their curbs with their Ground Zero initiative, but we want signs. Come on. DOT wake up, get in touch with the borough president. Do what you need to do, and let’s start small with signs. It’s a joke.”

Paladino also described ongoing collaboration with city agencies to monitor and clear drains after the storm and meet with affected businesses to support recovery.

A community member raised concerns about flooding at Lake Francis Lewis, where signage has been installed but flooding continues. Richards acknowledged the complexities and mentioned ongoing projects including a large rain garden near the area and potential buyouts of flood-prone properties to convert them back into parkland for water absorption.

The officials reiterated that while signage is an important first step, long-term solutions including improved drainage systems and green infrastructure are essential to address the growing threat of flash flooding in Queens neighborhoods.

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