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Sunnyside Community Center Hosts Press Conference For Elder Justice Program Support Services

BQE Admin on June 4, 2025

ALICE MORENO

news@queensledger.com

Elder abuse is an unfortunate reality that many face. According to the National Council on Aging, studies show that during the COVID-19 Pandemic, 1 out of 5 adults reported elder abuse. In another study, 1 out of 24 cases of abuse was reported. 

Sunnyside Community Center (SCS) is doing all it can to help elders get the justice they deserve. 

On Thursday, April 3, SCS held a press conference to learn more about the Elder Justice Program’s support services. With speakers such as Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and Commissioner of the NYC Department for the Aging, Lorraine Cortés-Vázquez, guests learned about the resources offered and how city officials will help combat this issue.

“I want to make sure that you understand that you can trust the process,” said Queens District Attorney Katz during her speech. “That we will prosecute those [who] are coming after the elderly, and we will make sure that they are accountable for that crime. But you need to trust that we will do that.”

The SCS offers help to elders located in Western Queens (Community Districts 1-7 and 11), and —  according to their press release — includes services such as: case assistance, counseling, crisis intervention, support groups, benefits enrollment, transportation assistance, referral to legal resources, and assistance with security, such as replacing locks. They offer services in Spanish and Mandarin as well, with staff members who understand cultural differences and language barriers. 

Launette Billups, a 74-year-old single mother of six, shared her story during the press conference. One of her children suffered from mental health issues, and Billups, who was facing abuse during her child’s episode, had called the police. She eventually received a phone call from SCS, offering their help and services to her. A year later, Billups thanks the SCS for their support. 

“​​Here I am today, almost a year later. My journey at the Elder Justice Program has been very beneficial, but it was one of the hardest things I had to do, because I don’t worry about being safe, but I still have a child that has mental illness and society would like to put her in jail,” said Billups as she described her story. “My fight is not over, and my fight is not ended, but at least I know that I have a safe space, and I have people here in my corner that’s going to advise you, and all I have to do is speak up.”

According to Shyvonne Noboa, the Associate Executive Director of Older Adult Services at SCS, there are various warning signs of elder abuse. These include restricting access to money, such as from their Social Security Income, closely monitoring their whereabouts, isolating elders from leading their normal lives, and verbal, physical, and/or mental abuse. All calls are confidential, giving survivors the safe space they need to combat abuse. 

Funded by the New York City Committee on Aging, the SCS works tirelessly to help elders in need escape their abusive situations. They hope to listen and understand what each individual is going through, giving them a space and resources to get through each situation safely. Though they understand the difficulties of opening up about being abused, as it is severely underreported, SCS urges those to call 911 or go to the hospital, since they are willing to help. 

“My advice to [those who are victims of abuse] would be when they’re ready to say, ‘I need help,’ to trust that they call Sunny Side Community Services,” said Noboa. “We’re going to listen, we’re going to give them the space that they need, and we’re going to connect them with resources and services to value them and treat them with dignity and respect.”

Queens Bus Network Gets a Makeover, But Not Everyone’s On Board

BQE Admin on June 4, 2025

MTA Buses in Flushing, Queens

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has released the final version of its Queens Bus Network Redesign, marking a major overhaul of bus service across the borough — and one of the most ambitious transit restructuring efforts in the city’s history.

The new plan, which has been years in the making, aims to modernize bus routes to better reflect the current travel patterns of Queens residents. Beginning this summer, sweeping changes will be implemented in two phases — on June 29 and August 31 — to streamline service, improve reliability, and shorten travel times for riders.

Under the redesign, the number of total routes will grow from 113 to 124, consisting of 94 local routes and 30 express or “rush” routes. These routes fall into four main categories: Local Routes that connect neighborhoods; Limited Routes, which offer faster connections along key corridors; Rush Routes, designed to move riders from neighborhoods to major hubs; and Select Bus Service (SBS)/Crosstown Routes, which operate as bus rapid transit on high-demand routes with limited stops.

“800,000 Queens residents depend on our buses every day, and we owe it to them to find new ways to speed service,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber. “No matter what else is going on in New York right now, the new MTA is listening to our customers and delivering bus speed improvements – whether it’s by transformative redesign of the bus network, Automated Camera Enforcement, or congestion pricing.”

The CEO of MTA

MTA Chair & CEO Janno Lieber, NYCT President Demetrius Crichlow, and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards announce the two-phase implementation of the Queens Bus Network Redesign at Queens Borough Hall on Monday, Apr 7, 2025. (Marc A. Hermann / MTA)

In Phase One, the MTA will launch 16 new routes, modify 67 existing ones, and discontinue five. Phase Two will bring one new route, changes to 37 existing routes, and the discontinuation of one.

The finalized plan follows years of planning and public outreach. Since 2019, the MTA has hosted more than 250 events and collected roughly 18,000 comments from riders, elected officials, and community members. The plan was formally approved by the MTA Board in January 2025.

“Starting this summer, bus riders in Queens will get to experience an enhanced, efficient and modern bus network, holistically designed for the future, not the past,” said NYC Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “We are proud to support the implementation of this redesign in partnership with the MTA to deliver enhanced bus service and bus stops for Queens riders, and we will continue to develop and implement bus priority projects that complement the Network Redesign service changes.”

The MTA has rolled out a suite of digital tools to help riders navigate the upcoming changes. A new route look-up tool at mta.info/queensbus allows riders to check specific route changes and timing, with translation features powered by Google Translate. Riders can also preview the new network using Remix, an interactive mapping tool, or explore their future commute using the Future Trip Planner, which shows trip options based on the fully implemented network.

In preparation for the changes, NYC DOT is currently updating signage at bus stops across Queens. GAR boxes — the permanent information panels at bus stops — will soon display redesign-specific updates, and signage inside buses and subways is also being rolled out. Onboard announcements and community outreach, including pop-up events and presentations to community boards, are part of an education campaign that began earlier this year.

Transit officials say the project will deliver clear benefits for riders: improved neighborhood connections, simplified routes, increased service frequency, and more consistent spacing between stops — all of which are expected to result in faster, more reliable service. Key corridors will also benefit from Bus Priority Projects, which aim to reduce delays and improve the overall rider experience.

“The Queens Bus Network Redesign is a game-changer for the 800,000 borough residents who ride an MTA bus each day. As we prepare for the official rollout of the redesign this summer to speed up commutes and make our system easier to navigate, I encourage all our straphangers in Queens to get informed on potential changes to your most frequently used routes,” said Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. “I was proud to work hand-in-hand with the MTA and all our partners on this plan and I couldn’t be more excited to see what a world of difference it will make in the daily lives of our neighbors as they travel to work, school and everywhere in between.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards announces the two-phase implementation of the Queens Bus Network Redesign at Queens Borough Hall on Monday, Apr 7, 2025. (Marc A. Hermann / MTA)

While the MTA touts the Queens Bus Network Redesign as a long-awaited step toward modernization, some longtime residents remain skeptical about its actual impacts

Michelle Cook Lopez, a lifelong Queens resident and small business owner in Glendale, brings a deeply community-rooted perspective to the Queens Bus Network Redesign. She operates Cook’s Arts and Crafts, a family-run yarn and hobby store that’s been in business since 1970, started by her grandmother. Beyond her store, Michelle is involved in the local American Legion and property owners’ association, giving her a strong pulse on neighborhood concerns. From her apartment above the store, she’s witnessed firsthand how essential accessible transit is for her community, particularly for seniors, families, and people with limited mobility. “I saw it posted with a link of which bus stops they were going to be taking out, and I took a look at it, and I said, well, that’s stupid, because they’re taking away the one closest to CVS drugstore in Glendale.”

While Michelle acknowledges that some changes to the bus network might be justified—especially stops that are unusually close together or in low-traffic areas—she’s particularly concerned about the removal of key stops in Glendale along the Q55 route. One is near the CVS drugstore, a lifeline for many elderly residents who may struggle with the added distance. Another is in front of Ideal Supermarket, which she sees as not only a blow to local businesses but also a challenge for shoppers managing groceries. Michelle emphasized she’s not just thinking of herself, “I can walk a bit of ways, I don’t mind so much for me personally, but a lot of seniors in the area use CVS, and now they’re going to have to walk an extra two to three blocks to get to the nearest bus stop.”

Linda Zimmer, a longtime Queens resident from Middle Village, has called the borough home for 67 years. Now retired, Linda once relied daily on the Q38 bus to connect her to the M train for her commute. Though no longer traveling for work, she still depends on that route for everyday errands. With the upcoming Queens Bus Network Redesign, Linda is facing a new challenge: her local stop on Juniper Valley Road is being eliminated, forcing her to walk nearly half a mile through the park to reach the next available stop on Eliot Avenue. “I used to just walk to the corner,” she says, noting that the increased distance is especially tough for seniors like herself — particularly with two bad knees and the added obstacles of navigating through parks filled with bikes and scooters. For Linda, the redesign feels less like a modernization and more like a disruption to the routines and mobility many longtime residents rely on.

Customers are encouraged to visit www.mta.info/project/queens-bus-network-redesign/service-changes for more information to see if their route has been affected and to stay informed ahead of the upcoming launch dates.

The first phase of service changes takes effect on Sunday, June 29, followed by the second phase on Sunday, August 31, or the next regular service day.

Queens Officials Rally to Save Job-Creating Incentives

BQE Admin on June 4, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Amid rising costs and economic strain on small businesses, Queens leaders joined state lawmakers, city officials, and business advocates last week in Albany to rally behind a package of critical tax incentives they say are vital to sustaining job growth and economic development across New York City.

At a press conference on May 28, State Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Grace Lee were joined by the Queens Chamber of Commerce, representatives from Mayor Eric Adams’ administration, and economic development organizations to advocate for the passage of SB8063 and A8676—a legislative package including three key tax incentives: the Relocation and Employment Assistance Program (REAP), the Lower Manhattan Relocation and Employment Assistance Program (LM-REAP), and the new Relocation Assistance Credit for Employees (RACE).

Supporters say the legislation is essential to addressing the city’s affordability crisis, combating high commercial vacancy rates, and helping small businesses—especially in Queens—stay afloat and grow in a competitive economic environment.

“Businesses are feeling the affordability crisis severely– if businesses are struggling, that means slower job growth and a cascading effect on neighborhoods across the city,” said Queens Chamber of Commerce President and Five Borough Jobs Campaign Co-Chair Tom Grech. “SB8063 offers a set of solutions to give these local businesses the support they need to grow and create good-paying jobs along the way. Albany cannot wait any longer to make them available to the folks who make our city strong.”

REAP provides eligible businesses with a $3,000 tax credit per employee annually for up to twelve years if they relocate from outside the city or Manhattan below 96th Street to designated revitalization zones in outer boroughs like Queens. Even outside those zones, businesses may still receive $1,000 per employee per year. In Long Island City alone, at least 12 businesses have used REAP to help create more than 2,600 jobs.

“Long Island City has already seen the benefits of programs like REAP, which helped a business like Ferrara Manufacturing stay true to their New York roots and expand into our neighborhood instead of going somewhere else,” said Laura Rothrock, President of the Long Island City Partnership. “In total, REAP has supported more than 2,600 jobs in Long Island City alone – this is a success story that we should be encouraging, not stifling, by renewing such a long-standing and common sense tax incentive.”

Since 1987, New York City has leveraged the REAP incentive program to attract businesses to commercial corridors in northern Manhattan and the outer boroughs, with an expansion in 2003 (LM-REAP) targeting Lower Manhattan’s recovery post-9/11. These programs offer a $3,000 tax credit per employee for up to 12 years, encouraging companies from sectors like engineering, design, biotech, and consulting to relocate within the city. To date, nearly 16,000 employees have benefited, with 178 firms claiming $26.1 million in credits in FY25 alone. The proposed legislation, S8063, seeks a three-year extension of REAP and LM-REAP alongside new reporting requirements to track effectiveness. With NYC office vacancy rates near historic highs and the programs supporting well-paying jobs, median salary $91,371 and over $2 billion in wages from out-of-state firms, advocates emphasize that renewing these incentives is crucial for sustaining employment and economic growth now.

Ferrara Manufacturing, a Queens-based apparel maker specializing in luxury suits and coats, credits the REAP program for enabling it to remain and expand in the city and they are just one business that benefits.

“New York’s business owners aren’t looking for a handout — we’re looking for a shot to succeed so we can uplift the city we care about,” said Gabrielle Ferrara Rose, COO and President of Ferrara Manufacturing. “REAP was instrumental in our expansion, and businesses across the city are counting on this bill so that all of New York City can thrive”

The proposed legislation also includes LM-REAP, aimed at addressing record office vacancy rates in Lower Manhattan, and RACE, a new program designed to attract out-of-state businesses and boost underutilized office space citywide. The RACE incentive alone is projected to generate approximately $385 million in economic returns by bringing new employers to New York City.

At a time when 90% of Queens’ approximately 57,000 small businesses have 10 or fewer employees, advocates say these incentives are not just helpful—they’re urgent.

“Brooklynites are counting on their elected officials to meet the urgency of the moment and deliver a more affordable and thriving city – we’re here today to advance proven tools to do just that,” said State Senator Andrew Gounardes (SD-26). “These programs have already helped thousands of New Yorkers find work closer to home, revitalized local business corridors, and brought new life to vacant office space. We can’t afford to let these incentives lapse at a time when New Yorkers are already struggling with an affordability crisis.”

Members of the Five Borough Jobs Campaign, a coalition of local development groups and business organizations met with lawmakers in Albany to underscore the momentum behind the proposal and the need to extend REAP beyond its scheduled expiration this month.

As New York continues to recover from the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, supporters argue that maintaining and expanding these programs is essential for small business survival, job creation, and equitable economic development.

“Lower Manhattan is one of the most dynamic economic centers in the country, but at a moment of historic commercial vacancy, we need targeted tools to keep it competitive,” said Assemblymember Grace Lee (AD-65). “Programs like LM-REAP and RACE help attract new employers, fill vacant office space, and keep our business corridors active and resilient—all of which creates more opportunity for working families to thrive. With the legislative session coming to a close, we must act swiftly to renew and expand these essential tools for economic growth.”

For more information about the REAP program, visit tinyurl.com/reapnyc. Learn more about the Five Borough Jobs Campaign at fiveboroughjobs.com.

Maspeth Honors Heroes at 39th Annual Memorial Day Parade

BQE Admin on May 29, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

Community Support Keeps Forest Hills Parade Tradition Alive

BQE Admin on May 29, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Forest Hills Honors Sacrifice and Community at Memorial Day Parade

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BQE Admin on May 29, 2025

Christian Spencer

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

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

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

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

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

All four individuals received awards for the occasion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Arcati first led with five people, he claims.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

QCP Recognizes Cindy Heller’s Lifetime of Service

BQE Admin on May 29, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BQE Admin on May 29, 2025

Taylor Dennis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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