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Council Member Julie Won Distributes Over 750 Toys to NYCHA Residents and Larger Community Ahead of the Holidays

BQE Admin on January 3, 2025

On Monday, December 16, and Friday, December 20, Council Member Julie Won, community partners, and volunteers distributed over 750 toys to children Queensbridge Houses, Ravenswood Houses, and Woodside Houses at three toy giveaways, as well as neighbors throughout District 26 during the Council Member’s office toy giveaway on Monday, December 23. Council Member Won provided $25,000 in funding for toys to New York Irish Center and Woodside on the Move, and an additional $25,000 to Little Essentials, part of which includes funding to purchase toys for holiday giveaways. Plaxall also donated toys for this year’s giveaways. 

“We’re excited to once again provide over 750 toys to children in public housing and throughout the community. The holidays can be a source of stress for many families, and we wanted to ensure that we could help make the season a special one for our neighbors,” said Council Member Julie Won. “Thank you to our partners at Queensbridge, Ravenswood, and Woodside Houses, Riis Settlement, New York Irish Center, Woodside on the Move, Little Essentials, Plaxall, Rethink Foods and Queens Together for the generous food donations.”

“It was amazing to see the smiling faces of children who live at Woodside Houses at our toy distribution in partnership with Council Member Won,” said Nan McKie and Tammy Reyes, President and Acting President, Woodside Houses Residents Association. “In addition to providing toys, Council Member Won always makes sure she’s there for residents to celebrate our successes and be advocates for us in difficult situations. Thank you to Council Member Won, Sunnyside Community Services, and all of the volunteers for making sure that the holidays are a special time for our families and children.” 

“The holiday season brings families and friends together for quality time and presents. Our toy giveaway with Council Member Won makes sure that Queensbridge Houses children will be able to experience the joy that this time of year brings,” said Corinne Haynes, President, NYCHA Queensbridge Houses Residents Association. “All year long, the Council Member shows up for Queensbridge residents, whether it’s making sure our students get backpacks for the school year or our families get turkeys for Thanksgiving. Thank you to Council Member Won, Jacob A. Riis Settlement, and all of our community partners for prioritizing Queensbridge Houses residents and making this toy giveaway possible!”

“We are so excited to partner with Council Member Won to bring back our toy giveaway for Ravenswood children this year. This giveaway is one of our favorite traditions that makes this a special time for every single child,” said Carol Wilkins, President, NYCHA Ravenswood Houses Resident Association. “Thank you to the Council Member, Jacob A. Riis Settlement, and local organizations for putting our community first. We look forward to continuing this work with the Council Member to continue improving Ravenswood for all of the residents.” 

“Riis Settlement is proud to partner with Council Member Julie Won, the New York Irish Center, and the Queensbridge and Ravenswood Residents Associations to provide toys and holiday cheer to the children and families in our community. This can be a challenging time of year for many despite the lights and decorations and we are grateful to Council Member Won and our community partners for bringing a little extra joy to our youngest neighbors,” said Christopher Hanway, Executive Director, Jacob A. Riis Neighborhood Settlement. 

“A highlight of this holiday season for New York Irish Center has been working in partnership with NY City Council Member Julie Won and her exceptional team. Our annual Toy Drive continues to expand as we bring even more support to families across our neighborhoods. Throughout the year our other partner drives include a coat drink and back-to-school backpack appeal. Serving our neighborhoods at this time is a top priority,” said George Heslin, Executive Director, New York Irish Center.

Timeline: Jimmy Carter Dies, NYS to Raise Minimum Wage

BQE Admin on December 30, 2024

Tragic South Korean Plane Crash Takes the Lives of 179, Only 2 Survivors

Following the political discourse that has affected South Korea in the past several months, a tragedy has struck the nation. Last week, a passenger jet flying from Bangkok crashed in South Korea, killing all but two crew members aboard. Reports say the pilot of the airplane announced prior to the crash that a bird had struck the plane, and an emergency landing would be employed. Unfortunately, the plane’s landing gear did not work properly, and the aircraft crashed. Two of the passengers were Thai citizens, and the rest residents of South Korea. Acting President, Choi Sang-mok, addressed the country following the crash, only two days into his term after his predecessor’s impeachment. He has declared a seven-day period of national mourning for those killed and their families. As authorities attempt to recover and identify the bodies, loved ones currently fill Muan International Airport, waiting to receive news. The National Transportation Safety Board has sent a team of U.S. investigators from Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration to help South Korea’s team. A memorial  altar for those who lost their lives has been placed within Muan Airport. 

 

Former President Jimmy Carter Dies at Age 100

Former President Jimmy Carter, who started as a humble peanut farmer in rural Georgia, has passed away at the age of 100. He was the oldest president to have ever lived, and leaves behind a large family and a larger legacy. While he left the White House after only one term with negative public reception, Carter pivoted his post-administration life to philanthropy and helping others. Along with his wife, Rosylnn, who he had been married to for 77 years, he created the Carter Center, an organization formed to expand human rights throughout the world. Working with Nelson Mandela, Carter also formed The Elders, a group of global leaders focused on world peace. He earned a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his humanitarian work, making him only the third American president to receive such an award. While many may remember Carter for his presidency’s economic and international crises, even more remember the generous and modest man that committed decades to doing good for others. Jimmy Carter’s state funeral will be held on January 9th in Washington DC, with the stock exchange and other organizations closing its doors for the occasion in his honor. 

 

New York State to Raise Minimum Wage

With inflation as an ever-present issue in the lives of Americans, many are living paycheck to paycheck. The federal minimum wage, which still sits at $7.25 an hour, is often not enough for American adults to care for their families. New York State has continually increased their minimum wage, and will be doing so again in the new year. Throughout the state, the minimum wage will be increased by 50 cents, meaning it will become $16.50 in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester, and $15.50 for all other counties. The federal minimum wage has been unchanged since 2009, while New York has grown continuously over the past decade. 

 

NYPD Chief of Department Resigns After Allegations of Sexual Misconduct

NYPD Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey has resigned after allegations against him have come to light. Lieutenant Quathisha Epps, an administrative worker in Maddrey’s department, filed a complaint with the city alleging Maddrey performed a quid pro quo exchange of sexual favors for Epps to receive more overtime. Maddrey submitted his resignation to new Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who accepted. Several other accusations have been leveled against Maddrey, including one police captain who says he sexually harassed her incessantly over years. While the Commissioner’s office is investigating the allegations, they have moved several heads of departments and inspectors within the NYPD. Among these are the heads of the Internal Affairs Bureau and six members of Maddrey’s office. “The NYPD works tirelessly to protect New Yorkers, and these roles are critical to keeping our communities safe,” Tisch said in her statement. “The interim Chiefs of Department and Patrol will continue to lead the efforts to reduce crime and disorder and build public trust,” Tisch said. 

 

Violent Tornadoes Cause Fatalities in the South

A severe weather event has caused destruction throughout the American South. At least four people have been declared dead throughout the region, with large scale destruction of communities. A series of tornadoes have ravaged across seven states, with as many as 44 tornadoes having been reported. One church in Mississippi was hit especially hard, with the structure completely destroyed. This will be the second time a tornado has ripped its way through the church in 90 years, the last time back in 1934. Now, many have lost their homes or are attempting to prevent further damage.

Make Your New Years Resolution to Run for Office

BQE Admin on December 30, 2024

By Robert Hornak

They say it’s every American’s right to complain. And we do, we complain about everything. About the weather, about traffic, about the price of eggs. We love to complain. But the one thing everyone really loves to complain about – politicians. 

They are out of touch, they are corrupt, they don’t care about the people they represent, and so on. And in some cases, that may be true. But mostly, the truth is that most people who get elected to public office are just average people themselves, no smarter or more insightful that anyone else. 

In many ways, being an elected official is an all-access backstage pass to life. And often the people who run just want to be “someone” with privilege and influence and see winning public office as the easy path to achieve their goals. So, they join political clubs, volunteer and then work for other elected officials, and then they run themselves as insiders of a process that favors insiders. 

Otherwise, they are just like people in general. Some good, some bad, many somewhere in-between. Some are smart, some less so, and they fall all across the spectrum for human behavior and personal insecurities. What they all have in common is the willingness to take action to achieve their goals, whatever they may be. And this is how they become insiders.

The one thing the insiders, who have spent time working their way up the insiders ladder, fear the most is someone who has not spent their life working in the political trenches, but someone with real life experience who becomes fed up with the insiders playing their game of offices and decides to get into the game themselves. 

These are the candidates that suddenly inspire average people, connect with the voters, and make a real difference. They change the political dynamic. They ask the questions that need to be asked – what do the voters really want? What do they really care about? And what will get them to vote for the change they want?

But candidates like this are the exception, not the rule. You can change that. 

Why are they so rare? Because people – people like you – don’t think things can change. That the system is rigged for the insiders. It isn’t. The way they rig the system is by reinforcing that feeling of futility and allowing it to take root and grow. They want you to throw up your hands and walk away, to continue going about your life, and to accept business-as-usual. 

If you care about your community and the future of the city, you should rethink that mentality they have ingrained in us and examine the possibility of running for office yourself. 

Getting started is fairly easy. You contact someone involved in politics who knows the system and will give you honest advice on navigating the system. Someone who can help you determine the opportunities you may have and how to approach them. And, most importantly, someone who puts your interests above those of what others may want. Someone who can help you avoid the pitfalls, and there are many. 

It’s not complicated, but it is hard work. It is, however, one of the most rewarding things you will ever do, win or lose. I’ve never had a candidate tell me at the end they regret having run. It introduces people to a whole new world. 

The hardest part is always getting started. To stop complaining and to make the commitment to become the change agent that counters the business-as-usual dynamic of politics. It’s more possible than you realize and just takes making that first step out of your comfort zone.

Our founders never intended for us to have a permanent political class running the country. For the new year make that resolution to think about your opportunities to run for public office and bring your life experience to governing, just as our Founding Fathers intended. Feel free to contact me or the editors of this paper with any questions.

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.

 

 

$500 in Relief for New Yorkers, Hochul’s Holiday Promise

BQE Admin on December 27, 2024

Governor Hochul Promises $500 Inflation Refund for New Yorkers during QCM visit

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

New York Governor Kathy Hochul visited Queens Center Mall in Elmhurst on Dec 19, engaging with local residents as they shopped ahead of the holidays. The visit tagged along by Queens Borough President, Donovan Richards was part of a larger effort to promote her proposal for providing financial relief to New Yorkers grappling with the rising cost of living.

During her time at the local mall, Hochul met with shoppers and discussed her plan to offer direct financial assistance to state residents through her proposed “Inflation Reduction checks,” aimed at easing the strain of inflation on household budgets. The proposal has gained attention as part of the governor’s broader strategy to support everyday New Yorkers facing financial difficulties.

“I’ve been walking around for the last 20 minutes or so,” Hochul said, referring to her tour of the mall. “Took about 4,000 selfies, at least it seemed like that, but it’s a friendly place, and this is a beautiful, beautiful mall where investors engaged to make it lighter, safer, more inviting.”

Hochul’s visit came on the heels of a broader discussion about public safety in New York City, particularly regarding the subway system. She highlighted recent efforts to improve security and public safety, emphasizing the increased presence of law enforcement and National Guard members on the streets.

“This is an area where there’s a great sense of safety,” Hochul said. “I just came off the subway, and I want to thank our National Guard and 250 more joining the numbers we already have. The people on the trains I talked to, dozens of them, are really happy about the presence of police, the National Guard, it makes them feel safer.”

The governor also took the opportunity to champion her proposed economic relief package, designed to address the financial pressures faced by New Yorkers in the wake of inflation.

“Lastly, I’m here to talk about this, More money in the pockets of New Yorkers,” she said. “Making sure that I get support for putting into our plan a reduction act to make sure that we put money back in the pockets of those who pay too much for everything—sneakers, jewelry, toys, and their groceries.”

Hochul’s proposal, which she plans to include in her 2025 State of the State address, would provide a one-time, direct payment to New York taxpayers. The initiative is expected to direct approximately $3 billion to around 8.6 million residents statewide, using a surplus in sales tax revenue generated by inflation. This growth in revenue, which has exceeded historical averages in recent years, is largely attributed to rising prices across everyday goods.

Under the proposal, eligible New Yorkers would receive $500 if they are married or filing jointly with an annual income of less than $300,000, and $300 if they are single or head of household with an income of less than $150,000.

“I’m working with the legislature and have the support of our great Borough President, Don Richards who knows how important it is to help his constituents putting money back in your pockets.”

The governor’s plan has been designed to directly address the impact of inflation on New Yorkers who are already facing high costs for essentials such as food, transportation, and healthcare. Since taking office, Hochul has focused on delivering financial relief through various programs, including more than $5.5 billion in supplemental payments, tax relief, and rebates.

The initiative is part of a larger package of proposals that Hochul will present in her upcoming State of the State address. The aim is to provide immediate assistance to those most affected by the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“So next holiday season, let’s make sure you have over $500 more because of this plan,” she said.

With the holiday shopping season in full swing, Hochul’s visit to Queens Center Mall served as a reminder of the challenges facing many New Yorkers this year. As inflation continues to impact household budgets, the governor’s proposed Inflation Refund is being positioned as an important tool for addressing these financial struggles and providing relief for residents across the state.

Hochul’s proposal comes as the state faces mounting pressure to address affordability issues and the growing cost of living. With millions of New Yorkers still reeling from the economic impacts of the pandemic, the governor’s plan is seen as a step toward easing some of the burdens felt by everyday residents.

As the plan moves forward, attention will turn to the state legislature, where lawmakers will have to decide whether to approve the $3 billion Inflation Refund. If passed, the relief payments will go to New Yorkers in every corner of the state, with payments expected to be distributed starting in Fall 2025.

Queens Central Library to Receive $11 Million for Renovation

BQE Admin on December 27, 2024

Queens Central Library is set to receive an $11 million renovation to its 1,800-square-foot auditorium, funded by a $5 million allocation from the NYC Council’s Queens Delegation and $6 million from the mayor.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The Queens Central Library is set to undergo a transformative renovation of its 1,800-square-foot auditorium, a hub for community programs and cultural events since 1966. The $11 million funding for the library located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd, Jamaica includes a $5 million allocation from the NYC Council’s Queens Delegation and $6 million from Mayor Eric Adams. The renovation will modernize the space and ensure it continues to serve as a vital resource for the borough’s diverse population.

The announcement was made during a check presentation ceremony in the library’s auditorium, with notable attendees including Council Member Nantasha Williams, Speaker Adrienne Adams, the Queens Delegation, and Queens Public Library (QPL) President Dennis M. Walcott.

“Today marks a transformative milestone for the Queens Central Library and our community,” said Council Member Nantasha Williams, Co-Chair of the Queens Delegation. “This investment ensures the Central Library Auditorium will continue to be a welcoming and inclusive space for education, culture, and creativity. As a gathering place for residents across the borough, this renovation reflects our commitment to improving resources that enrich lives.”

Queens Central Library is a vital institution, welcoming over 675,000 visitors annually and hosting nearly 160,000 program attendees in Fiscal Year 2024. The facility serves as a crucial hub for resources, technology, and programs, providing services to one of the most ethnically and culturally diverse populations in the country. The auditorium, which accommodates up to 200 people, has hosted countless cultural events, educational programs, and community celebrations over the years.

“Libraries are pillars of our neighborhoods, serving as community centers and resource hubs that support New Yorkers of all ages,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “In addition to securing funding to restore full library service, the Council’s Queens Delegation is proud to invest $5 million for the renovation of Queens Central Library’s auditorium. This essential, widely-used space hosts events, programs, and meetings for the entire community. I thank the entire Queens Delegation, led by Council Members Williams and Lee, and Queens Public Library for their work to secure this important investment for the future of Queens.”

Dennis M. Walcott, President and CEO of Queens Public Library, expressed his excitement about the renovation.

“Central Library’s auditorium has served as an essential gathering place and a cultural hub for the community for the past 58 years, and we are very much looking forward to bringing it up to 21st century standards,” he said “The public deserves a modern, vibrant and welcoming venue for the performing arts, films, author talks and more. We are incredibly grateful to New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Council Member Nantasha Williams and the Council’s Queens delegation for their work with Mayor Eric Adams to secure the funding needed to renovate this important space.”

 

Council Member Linda Lee, Co-Chair of the Queens Delegation, was next to speak at the event and praise the rennovation.

“I am honored to serve as Co-Chair of the Queens Delegation, and thanks to Speaker Adams and Co-Chair Williams, we secured $5 million to redevelop the Queens Central Library’s auditorium for families to enjoy. Thank you to QPL President & CEO Dennis Walcott for your ongoing leadership and advocacy. Libraries are pillars of our communities that provide residents of all ages with the tools, services, and programs they need to be successful,” Lee said.

The renovation will include ADA-accessible seating and ramps, updated finishes, advanced audiovisual technology, a hearing loop system, acoustical panels, and a new stage with dedicated features for performers. Additionally, flexible multipurpose rooms and an upgraded reception area will enhance the visitor experience. Once completed, the auditorium will also support live streaming of select events, expanding access to QPL’s programming.

“Growing up in a working class family, the Queens Library system was my primary source for learning, reading for enjoyment, and pursuing my education.  Joining in the presentation of a $5 million check to the Queens Library is my ability to give back to the institution that helped shape my career, and this funding will now help others in their journey,” said Council Member Lynn Schlman

The Central Library’s auditorium not only serves the residents of Council District 27 but also benefits the broader community, hosting events for elected officials, government agencies, nonprofits, and other community organizations at no cost. The renovation will help ensure that the library remains a cornerstone of the community for years to come.

“Queens Public Library has long been a cornerstone of our community, providing critical resources, education, and a welcoming space for all,” said New York City Council Majority Whip Selvena N. Brooks-Powers. “The $5 million allocation by the Queens Delegation to redevelop the auditorium at Queens Central Library is a testament to our commitment to enhancing these vital public institutions. This investment will ensure that the library continues to serve as a hub for cultural and educational programming for generations to come. I am proud to join my colleagues and President Dennis Walcott in celebrating this milestone.”

The event concluded with a symbolic oversized check presentation, marking the partnership and shared commitment to advancing the educational and cultural resources of the borough.

The upgrade will modernize the space, ensuring it continues to serve as a vital community hub for cultural events and educational programs.

 Wreaths Across America initiative

BQE Admin on December 27, 2024

On Saturday, December 7th the United Veterans Fraternal Organizations of Maspeth visited Mt. Olivet Cemetery as part of the national Wreaths Across America initiative. Participants included members of the United Veterans Fraternal Organizations of Maspeth, Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy National Junior Honor Society, Maspeth Town Hall, and St. Stanislaus Kostka CAQN Confirmation candidates. A total of 300 wreaths were laid at the gravesites of Veterans along with an American flag.

Students Break into Finance, One Line of Code at a Time

BQE Admin on December 27, 2024

 

Courtesy New York Edge

Middle school students from New York Edge recently visited Morgan Stanley’s Manhattan offices as part of a coding club at P.S. 78Q, where they learned programming and financial literacy with the help of Morgan Stanley volunteers.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Middle school students from New York Edge, the city’s largest provider of school-based afterschool and summer programs, recently had the unique opportunity to visit Morgan Stanley’s Manhattan offices as part of a special coding club at P.S. 78Q, The Robert F. Wagner Jr. School. The initiative, which aimed to expose students to programming and financial literacy, was the culmination of a semester-long partnership between New York Edge and the  financial services firm.

New York Edge’s mission is to bridge the opportunity gap for students in under-resourced communities by providing enriching afterschool and summer programs. The program at P.S. 78Q focused on introducing students to coding through tools like Scratch and imagiCharm, with Morgan Stanley employees volunteering their time to lead the lessons.

Danielle Federico, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at New York Edge, described the program as an exciting opportunity for students to gain valuable skills in coding while also exploring career possibilities in finance.

“So, we had a program with Morgan Stanley with several middle school students from PS 78. ” said Federico. “The employees from Morgan Stanley were volunteers, and they have a curriculum that they brought to the school to help students learn the fundamentals of programming using tools like Scratch and imagiCharm. They partnered with us on this initiative, and we’re just grateful that they’re able to take the time out to empower our students and share their passion for coding.”

The program lasted six weeks, and Federico noted the high level of enthusiasm from students, many of whom chose the coding club over other extracurricular activities. “This school has a big STEM focus, and we had students who were so eager to be part of the coding club that they even gave up gym class to attend,” she said. “One parent even took her child out of band so she could be part of this opportunity, recognizing how valuable coding skills are for their future.”

Throughout the semester, students collaborated with Morgan Stanley volunteers, using laptops and learning software to develop their programming skills.

 “The employees that came and volunteered really brought their knowledge to the school,” Federico explained. “The students were so excited to see them every week. It was a six-week program, and the students really lit up during it, walking away with the confidence knowing that they’ve gained such important skills in coding. This school specifically does have a pretty big STEM focus. So there were tons of students that were so excited to be part of the club.”

The culmination of the program was an end-of-semester celebration at Morgan Stanley’s office on 757 Fifth Avenue, where students got a taste of what it’s like to work in finance. One of the highlights of the celebration was a stock market simulation game, where students were given a set amount of money and tasked with making investment decisions. Morgan Stanley employees, acting as financial advisors, guided the students as they navigated the stock market, integrating their newly acquired coding knowledge with financial literacy.

Federico praised the event as an invaluable experience for the students.

“A lot of our students do have some knowledge of coding, but they don’t really have the technology at the school to really hone in on that,” she said. “So we were able to use laptops, and Morgan Stanley was able to bring in a message on which is kind of a fun way to learn coding, they were able to kind of donate that to our program to learn it, expose the students, hopefully build upon the skills they continue to use.”

Looking ahead, New York Edge is exploring the possibility of expanding the program.

“We’re definitely in a discussion with Morgan Stanley for at least extending it to this particular school,” Federico said. “Their curriculum is really great. We do have to kind of further figure out, just manpower-wise, if that could work for other schools, but that is the plan.”

New York Edge offers a range of afterschool and summer programs that cater to the diverse needs of students, including robotics, tech clubs, and career readiness initiatives. Federico emphasized that the goal is to provide students with a holistic education that goes beyond the traditional classroom.

“There are real costs to the families that we serve, and that includes robotics classes, step club, tech club, space, career and college leadership,” she said. “All of these programs are really customized to integrate the school day or the whole expanding beyond the afterschool lane, and they really serve a different board to life beyond the classroom and our in-school and out-of-school time. We really try to make it as seamless as possible. Our mission is to utilize this time to accelerate the students’ learning. Our afterschool programs offer the latitude to address a variety of subject matters that aren’t always covered during the school day. So, these programs and these opportunities that we have with Morgan Stanley kind of further expand that and just make it so much more exciting for our students to get into the offices of professionals, to really see themselves as professionals.”

For more information on New York Edge and its programs, visit www.newyorkedge.org.

The six-week program culminated in a celebration that included a stock market simulation, offering students a hands-on experience in both coding and finance.

Christmas Without CTE?

BQE Admin on December 23, 2024

MIKE PORCELLI

What’s Christmas without tool-skills?

At Christmas two years ago, I wrote about the many skilled workers who make the holiday season possible and the ways their skills are essential, not only during holidays – but every day. For example, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, the most popular attraction of Christmas in this city since it was first erected almost a hundred years ago. It takes thousands of skilled workers to produce that iconic symbol. Think about what this and every holiday would look like without the skills those workers bring.

Imagine Dicken’s classic Christmas Carol with a focus on skilled trade workers. In this version, the Tradesman-of-Christmas-Past is the Jack-of-All-Trades, who can build and repair every piece of technology. He can grow the tree, cut it down, transport it, install it, decorate it, light it, and then remove it when the season ends. He learned his skills from generations of craftsmen who came before and passed their skills onto their children. Each successor improved their skills, as they used them to make life more enjoyable for their contemporaries, particularly during the holidays.

Now, think about two versions of the Tradesman-of-Christmas-Present. The first one learned his skills from a parent, or one of the excellent public school vocational programs of the last century, or both, as I was privileged to do. Next, there’s the Non-Tradesman-of-Christmas-Present, educated by a school that removed shop classes from the curriculum. This person grew up without tool-skills and is virtually helpless in dealing with anything requiring their use. So sad! These unskilled individuals are the butt of Christmas morning horror stories about the most dreaded words found as children unwrap their gifts and find on the boxes – ASSEMBLY-REQUIRED. Deprived of shop classes growing up, they struggle to allow their children to enjoy their gifts. Some must even pay others to provide those required assembly services. How embarrassing!

Lastly, imagine what life would be like in the future if we continue to lose skilled workers at growing rates. This bleak scenario is represented by the Non-Tradesman-of-Christmas-Future, who’s not only incapable of assembling toys, but symbolizes a future without enough skilled workers to provide all the services modern society is dependent on. Life, as we know it – will cease to exist. Scary!

Children believe their presents are built by Santa’s Elves in his North Pole workshop. Elves with tool-skills. At some point, they begin to comprehend those elves are really the skilled tradesmen working in factories, and the products they produce with their trade skills, are not delivered on Santa’s sled propelled by reindeer, that are led by one with a red nose. They come to understand that those packages are really delivered by other skilled workers in the supply chain, particularly those ever-present blue Amazon trucks.

Let’s prevent the unskilled version of Christmas future, and other holidays, by… expanding CTE in all schools!

That’s the best present of all… for all!

JJ: A Holiday Wish List For NY Sports

BQE Admin on December 23, 2024

JOHN JASTREMSKI

I hope that the 2024 holiday season has treated you well. 

We all have our wish lists every year for Santa Claus and what he may bring us under the Christmas tree. 

Maybe it’s that apple watch or the newest video game console, but I have my wish list for Santa Claus for some of the New York Sports teams. 

For some of the New York teams, this past year brought a lot of presents. 

For some others, a whole lot of coal. 

Mets: Re-Sign Pete Alonso

Yes, the Mets are coming off one of their best seasons without a championship. A feel good ride to the NLCS. To cap off the year, the Mets signed Juan Soto away from the Yankees to become the next franchise cornerstone. 

The Mets added Soto, brought back Sean Manaea, but still have one more major need to address. 

They need to bring back Pete Alonso to round out the middle of their lineup. 

The power, protection for Soto and the idea of Alonso being a Met for life all should make the Mets fans spirit bright. 

Giants: Find And Draft a Franchise Quarterback

The Giants are in the middle of the worst season in the 100 year history of the franchise. 

The season thankfully ends in two weeks, but now the stage is set for a great present in late April.

If the Giants lose their final two games of the season, they end up with the # 1 pick in the draft.

Of course it’s not a given, but the idea of the next hope at quarterback come April and the entire draft to choose from, at least gives 2025 a chance at a promising start. 

Jets: End the longest playoff drought in professional sports! Hire Mike Vrabel! 

The Jets have the longest playoff drought in professional sports. They’ve hired plenty of GM’ and head coaches since 2010. 

They brought in Aaron Rodgers, a future Hall Of Fame quarterback, yet here we are. 

No playoffs since 2010.

The franchise needs a program and culture builder. 

There is no better place to start than to look at Mike Vrabel to be that guy. 

Vrabel thrived for years as coach of the Tennessee Titans. His teams were always prepared, tough minded and successful. 

This is the perfect choice to change the culture. 

Yankees: Become More Fundamentally Sound in 25! 

The 2024 Yankees ended a 15 year drought without an American League pennant. 

They were also a team that was fundamentally flawed all season long. 

They ran the bases terribly and the team’s defense left a lot to be desired. 

The Yankee defense was responsible for one of the worst defensive innings in the history of the Yankees and the World Series in a 5th inning of Game 5 of the World Series that will live in infamy. 

I am hopeful that the Yankees can be a more fundamentally sound team next season. 

Adding Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt who are two terrific defensive players should help the overall team defense. 

It will be needed with the addition of weak contract machine Max Fried joining Gerrit Cole at the top of the rotation. 

There are a few of the things I listed for New York fans to wish for under their trees for 2025. 

To all a Merry Christmas and to all a good night. 

You can listen to my podcast New York, New York on the Ringer Podcast Network on Spotify/Apple podcasts every Sunday & Thursday. You can watch me nightly on Honda Sports Nite at 11 PM on SNY.

Greek Americans Defeat Pancyprian Freedoms 3-1 in Hellenic Derby

BQE Admin on December 23, 2024

First defeat faced by Pancyprians in EPSL as we head into the winter break

NOAH ZIMMERMAN

noah@queensledger.com

The NY Pancyprian Freedoms suffered their first loss of the EPSL season, dropping the Fall finale to the NY Greek Americans in the “Hellenic Derby” at Hofstra University.

NY Pancyprians were near perfect in league play, with 9 wins and a draw heading into the rivalry matchup. They boasted a division-leading 33 goals and 7 goals allowed (+26 GD) with 5 consecutive wins since their 2-2 draw to Lansdowne Yonkers prior to the final contest.

Right behind the Pancyprians were the Greek Americans, who had gone 7-1-1 since their Week 1 loss to NY Athletic Club. They sat just behind the leaders in points and goals scored entering the final week.

Under the lights at Hofstra, the Greek Americans put their rivals to the test. In the 28th minute, a deflected free kick gave them a 1-0 advantage heading into the half.

In the 64th minute Brian Saramago doubled the Greek lead, going on to complete his brace with their third goal just minutes later.

The Pancyprians were able to pull a goal back in stoppage time, but ultimately fell 3-1 in the derby. They maintain a three point advantage in the EPSL Metro Division as we await the second half of the season following the Winter break.

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