Michael Perlman, Author at Queens Ledger

Legendary T-Bone Diner to reopen

Michael Perlman on January 11, 2023

Pastrami, matzah balls and around the clock nostalgia

By Michael Perlman

T-Bone with historic neon sign on its side, April 2022, photo by Michael Perlman.

One of Queens’ earliest freestanding diners will have a second lease on life.

The T-Bone Diner at 107-48 Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills, which shuttered last February, will reopen next summer or potentially sooner in spotless condition.

It will merge two classic concepts of Americana – a diner and a deli, and will be known as “T-Bone Diner & Delicatessen.”

It will operate as a kosher-style 24-hour establishment.

This columnist brokered a deal to rescue the historic T-Bone Diner by introducing A. Kumar, owner of nearby Jade Eatery and Lounge to Richard Jagusiak, the diner’s leasing agent, and helped defeat a plan to have a Popeyes location open in its place.

The now missing T-Bone front neon sign, Photo copyright Thom Sheridan, July 31, 1987.

“My endeavor is to keep our culture alive,” said Kumar, whose business partner is Glenn Reiner. “A main reason that I decided to reopen this diner was to serve our community, since there are not too many diners remaining in the neighborhood.”

He remembers the recent losses of the beloved Tower Diner and Shalimar Diner, in addition to delis of yesteryear, including Sandy’s Surf, Ben’s Best and King’s/Boulevard Delicatessen. Eyeing a meaningful and creative future for the T-Bone, Kumar explained, “Our menu highlights will be pastrami, matzo ball soup, and a 24-hour breakfast and the likes. We will be like Katz’s Deli. Our dress code for the staff would be a long skirt for the ladies, and men will wear fully white or black with a bowtie, just like the 1940s and 1950s.”

One of the T-Bone Diner’s major attractions is a circa 1950s-era Art Deco neon sign on the side, which will continue to illuminate upon Queens Boulevard in bright pink neon, but with the addition of the term “Delicatessen.”

Historic neon sign, Photo by Retrologist Rolando Pujol.

“The historic sign is a fantastic example of mid-20th century neon signage,” said David Barnett, co-founder of the New York Sign Museum and Noble Signs, who envisions restoring the authentic sign and adding to it in the same style.

“This sign is notable for the unique floating raceway mounting of the mill finish neon channel letters, and for the unique neon pictorial pan sign, which has a playful style that showcases the maker’s artistic sensibility,” he continued.

The front also had vintage signs, but those vanished several years ago and can be replicated.

T-Bone Diner in 1930 by NYC transit surveyors & circa 1940 by NYC Municipal Archives.

The T-Bone was prefabricated by the famed diner manufacturer, Kullman.

In 1930, an even more traditionally styled diner existed with “Seminole Grill” artfully stenciled on the base of each exposure.

Then in 1936, the IND subway entrance would be erected adjacent to the diner’s front entrance.

Today, a granite plaque near the front door reads, “T-Bone Diner, Since 1934.”

In its early days, it was known as The Boulevard Cafeteria, followed by the T-Bone Tudor Grill in 1937.

According to historian Ron Marzlock, the diner’s name was based on Robert Grassi preparing a perfect-old world Florentine T-bone steak, which boosted traffic and earned it the reputation it needed. Afterall, this was the era of The Great Depression.

Early on, T-Bone Diner was also stenciled on the facades.

Over the decades, the T-Bone Diner underwent several renovations. Its most recent owners are fondly remembered as Peter and George Plevrites.

The T-Bone was frequented by many notables, including Abe Colman, who was nicknamed the “Jewish Tarzan” and “Hebrew Hercules,” and began achieving much success during the Great Depression.

Passing away at age 101 in 2007, he was recognized as the oldest professional wrestler worldwide.

In a 2018 interview, his niece, Miriam Bly, referenced the T-Bone Diner as his favorite stop.

“He loved steak and soup, and would eat two meals a day,” she recalled.

Another notable T-Bone patron was legendary rock photographer Neal Preston, who captured the “who’s who” of rock musicians.

After compiling the Sunday New York Times at a candy shop on Queens Boulevard and Continental Avenue, he could not resist a tradition of rewarding himself with cheeseburgers at the T-Bone Diner.

The T-Bone earned its spot on TV, as in the case of the 2003 “Regular Joe” comedy series on ABC.

Joe Binder was portrayed by Daniel Stern and Joanie Binder, portrayed by Kelly Karbaez, was his 18-year-old child who attended Queens College and worked at the T-Bone to support her daughter, Zoe.

The demand for a diner and deli is high, according to patrons who are current and past residents. “I wish we had another kosher deli or diner in the neighborhood,” a resident named Sandra Martin said. “We used to go to Ben’s Best while my parents were alive, and we enjoyed it.”

The T-Bone was a go-to place for Forest Hills Inn Board President George Hoban, who would come home late from the airport after a business trip. “It was comforting to know that I could get a great meal and friendly staff at any hour,” he said. He also misses Ben’s Best. “I loved the hot dogs, knishes and sandwiches. The kosher style delicatessen is almost a rite of passage for any New Yorker and it’s a sin that our neighborhood no longer has that option.”

Diner expert Riley Arthur of San Diego, California, captured the broad picture of the NYC diner culture on Instagram; @dinersofnyc and February will mark the seven years of photographing them.

“In that time, 99 diners have closed, never to reopen, but a handful closed and reopened by brave new owners. Queens lost 28 diners, second only to Manhattan in fastest rate of diner loss,” she explained. “Gentrification and rising rents are the two largest factors, although the pandemic resulted in a steady rise to their closure.”

She considers diners and delis to be “pillars of the community.”

T-Bone Diner in 1948.

“Maybe their food reminds them of home cooking. I’ve seen diner owners give cups of coffee to the homeless on multiple occasions. This is a place where people can sit for hours and be welcomed, eat alone, or their kids can do homework at the booths or patrons can have a safe first date,” Arthur added.

She felt that the T-Bone offered all the ambiance to be desired in a diner, consisting of frosted windows bearing its name, deep blue and white booths and a welcoming sit-up counter overlooking an open grill, where you can keep an eye on your eggs and potatoes.

“There was colorful lighting and a cozy atmosphere. The cooks wore classic paper soda jerk hats. Ironically, food is always secondary to the diner experience for me, but if you wanted an authentic diner meal, their menu delivered,” she said.

Stu Mazlish may be a Richmond, Virginia resident, but he left his heart in Forest Hills.

“After a ceremony at Forest Hills Jewish Center, my father took our family to the T-Bone for lunch. I must have been around six and ordered a slice of blackout cake, which was bigger than life,” he reminisced.

The personalization factor and ambiance of delis also cannot be beat.

Looking NW on Queens Blvd from 71st Ave, 1984.

For Sandy’s Surf, he said, “All I can remember was the smell that is amazing to this day, and how Sandy was so nice to my mother and I. He gave a free hot dog after showing him my report card. Every Friday, my father gave me a dollar to buy a loaf of rye bread sliced from Jay Dee Bakery to go with the deli from Ben’s Best.”

The T-Bone was one of San Diego, California resident Pete Attardo’s most frequented stops, and he remembers how the landmark always seemed to be open and welcoming. “There was a counter man by the grill, whose name I believe was Spiro. He was good-natured and always willing to laugh at our shenanigans. I used to go with my dad on many afternoons and get their open-faced turkey meal with mashed potatoes and gravy,” Attardo said.

He relocated in 1973, but revisited in the 1980s.

“In later years, I would take my wife and kids, and especially my youngest son would enjoy it. Every one of my friends who left Forest Hills would make it a point to hit the T-Bone on their trips home.”

Fifteen-year Forest Hills resident Lindsey Nicholson, who admired the T-Bone’s retro appearance with its neon sign, said, “I love a good diner and the fact that you can get a large variety of food. My partner and I loved the Shalimar on 63rd Drive and the ‘50s feel of UJ’s on 71st Road. Tower Diner on 66th Road was one of our favorites too. Diners are a much-needed option, since they offer breakfast all day and are casual.”

Forest Hills resident, Jeffrey Carrasquillo, lived next door at Lane Towers. T-Bone was his go-to for a quality meal after a long day of work.

He describes the establishment as “more than a restaurant” and a “place of socialization” where particularly the elderly and single folks could talk about current events and holidays.

He feels the same holds true for Jewish delis.

“The restaurant staff became like family. You knew them by their first names and would chat,” he said. “Our neighborhood will never be the same again as more of these places are gone. Corporate restaurants don’t have that ambiance.”

This adds to my earlier diner preservation victories, where Manhattan’s historic Moondance Diner and Cheyenne Diner were hoisted up and transported on a flatbed to Wyoming and Alabama, respectively, which led to the NY Observer assigning the nickname “Diner Man.” – Michael Perlman

Vintage postcards celebrate New Year’s traditions

Michael Perlman on January 4, 2023

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

Several decades ago, postcards were a unique work of art, which could be found at your corner pharmacy, but today vintage ones are found on eBay and at estate sales and postcard shows. They represent nearly every theme, including hometowns, hobbies and even New Year’s.

In 1873, the first American “picture postcard” was designed.

Today, a significant number of postcards from the late 19th and early to mid-20th century exist in an excellent state with fine penmanship and a one-cent stamp for domestic mail and two cents for international mail.

Deltiology is the collection and study of postcards, which derives from “deltion,” a Greek term for a writing tablet or letter. A postcard collector is known as a deltiologist.

Most New Year’s postcards are colorful lithographs that seem realistic, and a majority were published between 1898 and 1918.

Those from the 1920s to the 1940s were published in fewer quantities.

Some postcards offered a New York City theme.

One celebrated urban innovations and buildings that were regarded as landmarks.

A postcard recognizing the approach of 1906 features photos of significant landmarks; the Times Building, the New York City subway, the Flatiron Building and the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument within large block letters of the year, was adorned with holly.

It was published by Franz Huld of 246 Fifth Avenue as part of Series 1906, No. 1.

He is regarded as a significant American publisher who experimented with views, commemorations, comics and novelties.

Earlier on, the postcard trade was largely based in Germany and Holland.

It is all eyes on Times Square in a selection of postcards. A white border postcard features a black and white printed image of shoulder to shoulder attendees.

It is captioned, “They definitely met at the Astor on New Year’s Eve.”

It was photographed from a once ornate Times Building and faces the Studebaker Building.

A Chevrolet illuminated sign reads 12:00. To its left is the legendary Beaux Arts style Hotel Astor, which was in operation from 1904 to 1967.

Times Square became the scene of New Year’s Eve celebrations in 1904, and the first ball drop dates to 1907, which was erected by New York Times publisher Adolph Ochs.

Other festive events were captured on hand-colored lithographs, including the Tournament of Roses on New Year’s Day in Pasadena, California.

It features an exquisitely decorated high school float with roses on trees, floats and vines that unite the unique costumed marchers.

Poetry and inspirational quotes can be found on early 20th century postcards.

A circa 1910 postcard features an illustration of an elegantly dressed woman holding flowers and sitting on a ladder, with flowers growing around the ladder.

It is titled “A Glad New Year” and reads in a creative font, “As you climb the ladder of success, With heart that’s kind and humble, You’ll surely reach the topmost rung, And never get a tumble.”

It becomes a musical production on an Auld Lang Syne postcard, which bids farewell to the old year and is interpreted as a call to remember long-standing friendships.

It features the complete lyrics on a banner with a watercolor background, and two men on top wearing suits with a top hat and a traditional hat, shaking hands.

Another New Year Greetings circa 1912 postcard reads: “We’ll take the Grand Tour round the sun, Nor mind the wind and wet, And may we say when it is done, ‘The happiest journey yet.’”

The poem is complemented by a child in a raincoat and a rain hat on a boat with a backdrop of an early skyline with blues and golds.

This signed postcard was the result of a significant American illustrator, Ellen Hattie Clapsaddle (1865 – 1934), whose style has drawn much admiration, making her a most prolific postcard and greeting card artist of her time.

Other postcards offer a romantic theme. Among a most elegant hand-colored lithograph depicts a couple dressed in an evening gown and suit and toasting in front of a picturesque scene of water, trees and a mountain while embracing on a landing in front of a mansion with a balustrade.

It is trimmed in gold leaf.

Another chromolithograph postcard from circa 1910 focuses on a Colonial era couple dancing at a ball, kicking their feet, with Impressionist musicians playing the violin and outlines of couples dancing in the background.

A gold frame with graceful ornamentation can be found within, where candlelight sconces are tied to the detail.

This embossed postcard was published by E. Nash Co. under the New Year Postcards Series, and was also a well-known illustrator of high-quality holiday cards and based in Manhattan.

A most famous publisher was Raphael Tuck & Sons, and the firm was considered “Art publishers to their majesties the king and queen.”

Postcards by this firm are most desirable and operated from 1866 to the 1960s in London and at 122 Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.

One postcard depicts an elegant couple ringing in the new year by looking into each other’s eyes as the man is pulling off a page of a calendar to reveal Jan. 1 under an elaborate Victorian style band with golden four-leaf clovers and under a Roman numeral clock.

Clocks that struck midnight were a popular theme, as in the case of an embossed gold, pink and blues accentuated 1907 postcard designed in the Art Nouveau style.

Some outstanding features were torches with ribbons, leaves and floral motifs.

A bottom inscription reads, “P. Sanders, New York,” which references the publisher. Illustrated holiday postcards were his specialty.

The advent of the automobile is celebrated in colorful postcards that were futuristic yet graceful.

A young couple, facing the camera, rides in a two-seater in “A Prosperous New Year” circa 1910 postcard.

The woman wears a traditional coat with a floral hat, beside a man in a well-appointed coat tipping his hat. The same couple was depicted in at least one variation of this postcard.

A deltiologist takes note of personalized features, including a ribbon and varied rose vines outlining the curves of the car. A young boy with angelic wings blows a triumphant horn in unison.

Prior to the postcard trade arriving in America, production was underway in Europe.

A “Buon Anno” circa 1900 Art Nouveau illustration features a woman pouring water from an urn to extinguish a fire, symbolizing renewal.

It bears the name of author R.M. Orlow. An inscription from publisher Stengel & Co (1885 – 1945) reads “Dresden u. Berlin.”

Real photo postcards, with color-tinted highlights of an image, were often dominated by a sepia tone finish.

It was rare to find the same couple or a group of children featured on other postcards of its kind.

These postcards usually offer an ornate ambiance and one-of-a-kind calligraphy, such as in a Bonne Année card, where a man looks into a woman’s eyes, ready for that New Year’s kiss.

The viewer can encounter timeless romance, and have a taste of Victorian era fashions and furnishings. Unlike completely illustrated postcards, these cards feature images of real people, often in a studio depicting a European setting.

Family bonds were represented on real photo postcards, and some featured calendars alongside portraits that reinforced those bonds year-round.

A baby boy hugs his father in one frame, whereas a baby girl hugs her mother in another.

A greeting, “May the New Year bring every happiness to you and yours,” can be seen daily while checking its 1911 calendar.

Gilded Age accented corners add to its distinction. This divided back postcard was part of the Rotary “Real Photographic” Opalette Series and was printed in England.

The Rotary Photographic Co. was associated with at least 1,422 portraits, was active between 1897 and 1916 and was a foremost real photo postcard publisher.

A hybrid of a romance and humor postcard can be found as a snowman takes on male and female form and engages in a proposal.

At midnight, a couple placed themselves in their shoes in a light-hearted interpretation in this circa 1920s or 1930s W.H.B. watercolor, which reads “Die besten wünsche zum jahreswechsel” or “Best wishes for the turn of the year” in German.

‘Chanukah on The Park’ draws record crowd

Michael Perlman on December 28, 2022

Lighting the way with a vibrant Forest Hills tradition

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

Rabbi Mendy & the FDNY kindles the Chanukah lights, Courtesy of Moishe Recheste Photography

“Chanukah on The Park” and its symbolic 18-foot menorah continues to beam brighter each year.

Situated in front of Yellowstone Municipal Park, a ceremony filled with diverse activities continues to grow – both logistically and in spirit.

This Forest Hills tradition originated in 2015 and was founded by Rabbi Mendy Hecht and Rebbetzin Chaya Hecht of Chabad of Forest Hills North, which also serves the greater community.

On the first of eight nights of Chanukah on Dec. 18, from 4:15 to 6:30 p.m., over 500 guests were ready to embrace the miracles of Chanukah.

Additionally, residents of Yellowstone Boulevard apartment buildings took advantage of an aerial view from their windows.

“What a beautiful sight,” Hecht said. “Being that we had a longer event this year with more entertainment, we had crowds of people at all times.”

Rebbetzin Chaya Hecht & Rabbi Mendy Hecht in front of the symbolic 18 ft menorah, Courtesy of Moishe Recheste Photography

Each night thereafter, a Chanukah menorah lighting was held on a smaller scale.

This past September marked another miracle; the 10-year anniversary of Chabad of Forest Hills North.

Chanukah descends from the Hebrew term, “chinuch,” meaning inauguration and education.

The “Festival of Lights” rejoices in the miracle of how a tiny cruse of oil, fit for a single-day supply, conveyed luster for eight days.

In addition, it recalls the Jewish victory over a tyrant king and the temple’s rededication in Jerusalem.

It is a tradition to eat fried latkes (potato pancakes), which symbolizes the miracle of the oil.

The ambiance felt traditional yet innovative. The diverse lineup of the eighth annual Chanukah festival featured many highlights, such as the FDNY Ladder 138 Menorah Lighting and Chanukah Gelt (chocolate coin) drop from a cherry picker that is over 30 feet in height, which is a Chabad of Forest Hills North novelty.

The menorah was kindled with a torch, beginning with the “Shamash,” the central candle used to light the other candles. Lighting one candle is symbolic of unity.

Chabad boys dressed up as dreidel mascots, clowns and Maccabees, choreographed their way through the multi-generational crowd.

Festive mascots, Courtesy of Moishe Recheste Photography

Hecht delivered a bold speech from his heart. “The light of the menorah is not just for us or our families, but for the people around us like the windows of the Holy Temple going outwards to bring light outwards.”

He referenced and adapted a notable quote from John F. Kennedy’s inaugural address by saying, “Do not say what can my country do for me, but say what can I do for my country. Spread the light to others.”

A production featured traditional and original Chanukah tunes and Israeli songs, and the ambiance was heightened with a newly created stage.

Performers included keyboardist and singer, Michel Krohn, and Israeli singer, Itzik Weingarten, a surprise guest.

Musician Michel Krohn, Courtesy of Moishe Recheste Photography.

Surprise Israeli singer Itzik Weingarten, Courtesy of Moishe Recheste Photography.

Memorable Chanukah tunes include “Al Hanisim,” “Candlelight,” “Light Up The Nights,” “Ma’oz Tzur” and “I Have A Little Dreidel.”

The CKids of The Arts performance, consisting of Chabad of Forest Hills North’s very own Hebrew School children, made a debut. Their show-stopper was “I’ll be a neis. I will be a bright light. I will be a miracle of light.”

The Illusionist and Duo Fire Show was also an eye-opener, marked with oohs and ahhs from the crowd. Guests reminisced about earlier successful lineups, which featured DJs, a ventriloquist puppet show and a magic show. Among last year’s highlights was a BMX bike show that spanned the block.

Reflecting upon the festival’s success, Hecht said, “We had the honor to have Borough President Donovan Richards. His strong support for the Jewish community and for Israel and Jewish values was delivered. He said he doesn’t speak words, but takes action, and he will continue to fight against anti-Semitism. This was heard loud and clear, echoing from the podium. Other elected officials also expressed their support for the Jewish community.”

There is a significant message of Chanukah that everyone should understand and be compassionate about, regardless of their religion and culture. Hecht explained, “Spread goodness and kindness. Spread light. A little bit of light pushes away darkness. We all need this lesson and we all need a bit of light in this dark world, regardless of our religion.”

Chanukah serves as a model for all inaugurations, including education, which is the most significant.

“The Lubavitcher Rebbe often stressed the unique connection between Chanukah and education. It is a special time that inspires children to connect to their heritage, as can be seen by many customs, including the giving of Chanukah gelt,” he continued. Chanukah is also a time of continued spiritual growth.

Another miracle is how rabbis and rebbetzins, local residents, guest speakers, the FDNY, 112th Precinct and musicians among other creative personalities come together in the name of unity to spread much light.

112th Precinct with Law Enforcement Explorers, Courtesy of Moishe Recheste Photography

Each year, the event is noted in detail, so the following year can be grander and more accurate. Much transpires behind the scenes to ensure the festival’s success, as explained by Hecht, who says it is not a “1-2-3 job.”

“We can surely say that after eight years, next year’s will be even better than before. Every detail is looked over and there is much work for several weeks dedicated to it,” he said.

“Even an order of over 600 donuts is not an easy undertaking. Then picture the entertainment crew details and setup, the schedule and ensuring the NYPD are briefed properly for the event to run smoothly. The FDNY also has their time slot. Just the 18-foot menorah is a job within itself, and then it truly looks beautiful ‘on the park.’”

Rabbi Mendy & Rebbetzin Chaya with FDNY, Courtesy of Moishe Recheste Photography

The traditions of Chanukah in the Holy Land vary from some of those observed in America.

Hecht said, “In Israel, menorahs are displayed in glass boxes and sit outside homes unlike how in America, where you will mostly find them in windows or inside homes. It’s a truly beautiful sight to see in Jerusalem. The jelly donuts are served hot, unlike here how they are served cold.”

He also pointed out how the dreidel in Israel features the Hebrew alphabet Nun (none), Gimmel (all), Hei (half) and Pay instead of Shin (some).

“Since the Pay is the first letter representing the word Poh which means ‘here,’ it means that a great miracle happened here in Jerusalem,” he continued.

As a religious leader, it is even a continuous learning process for Hecht, for events including Chanukah on the Park.

“I have learned that it is never enough, and I have more light and more Jewish fun to bring to the masses. The community is thirsty and I have a responsibility,” he said.

He thanks G-d for the miraculous achievement of eight years of Chanukah on the Park.

“Everyone is looking forward to this annual event, so we said on such a milestone, we must boost it up,” he said.

This is also a time of additional divinity, as in eight lights on the menorah pertaining to the “Hakhel Gathering.” “In the Holy Temple, all Jews would gather in the eighth year to hear the Torah read by the king, and to learn to fear G-d and keep his laws. The Rebbe OBM asked that we actualize it just like our ancestors have in the corresponding year, and create big gatherings.”

The festival is another achievement that signifies how Chabad of Forest Hills North is a beacon of light in the community, continuing to spread the message behind the Chanukah light year-round.

“We are here for the community in goodness and during the unfortunate times, but we hope we can be there for only good times,” Hecht said. “We will be a support in so many ways, whether spiritually or by physically showing up with a care package in a rehabilitation center, or to do a simple mitzvah (good deed) in other ways.”

New York Tea Society keeps history alive

Michael Perlman on December 21, 2022

Forest Hills tea club preserves tradition, envisions expansion

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

David Edelman, Michael Perlman and Roy Lamberty at the Forest Hills tea sanctuary.

The New York Tea Society (NYTS), which operates out of a Forest Hills tea studio, is creating a buzz around town.

Afterall, tea is the second most consumed drink worldwide.

The society’s mission is to “facilitate the gathering of tea enthusiasts for the purpose of promoting tastings, discussions and education about tea and tea culture.”

Gatherings are held every Sunday at 1 p.m. and on some Saturday evenings.

With an in-person meets virtual format, this non-profit organization attracts local, national and even international fans.

An intriguing lineup of events includes tea comparisons, water/vessel comparisons, outdoor tea, the Making Tea Workshop at Camellia Forest Nursery, Snug Harbor Scholar’s Garden and Spring Water Collecting.

“When you start learning about tea, you are brought into a never-ending journey consisting of history and culture,” said Forest Hills resident Roy Lamberty, founder and president of NYTS.

“Whether it’s geography or language, it’s all told through the story and practice of tea,” added David Edelman, an active NYTS member, also from Forest Hills. “The space resembles a sanctuary for tea. Every tea has a story, just like the people that attend. You never know who is going to show up to a tea session, whether it’s an overseas visitor or your next-door neighbor.”

Traditional pottery & NYTS members worldwide at the studio. Photo by Michael Perlman.

Looking ahead, Lamberty said, “One day I will most certainly open a tea house and would love for it to be in Queens.”

In Lamberty’s Forest Hills tea studio, he has 50 kilos of tea at any given time from all regions and categories, including green tea, yellow tea, white tea, oolong, dark tea and pu’er.

The sanctuary ambiance is also evident through nearly 50 yixing teapots, Jingdezhen porcelain gaiwan and vases and pewter canisters.

A unique display, courtesy of Roy Lamberty.

His culinary career spans over three decades. With much passion, he serves as director of food and beverage at Marriott Hotels, and also draws from his experience as executive chef of various hotels, a private NYC club and restaurants.

Edelman is a social studies teacher at Union Square Academy for Health Sciences in Manhattan, who takes his passion a step further by operating a tea club for his students. At the pandemic’s onset, he developed an interest in tea.

“I also like to introduce my students to unique teas,” he said. “I was looking for a new hobby that would serve as an intellectual and calming distraction from the chaos and fear.”

Lamberty pointed out that most members consider their tea friends more of a family than a club.

“We are a casual group who can get quite geeky about tea knowledge, while leaving plenty of time for getting to know each other,” he said.

There are over 700 members on www.newyorkteasociety.com and typically around 50 who participate in live sessions.

Most members are from the New York area, with the exception of members spanning the U.S.

“Our Virtual Tea Club was born during the pandemic, when the tea community only used an online format,” Lamberty continued.

Lamberty explained how he and tea became acquainted. “After traveling to China, I realized what a special role tea played in social settings. It united people from all paths of life; young, old, male, female, Chinese, Americans, etc. Upon returning to NYC, I quickly realized that this type of social activity was extremely rare, which is when I decided to form NYTS.”

As a sous chef in 1997, Lamberty’s chef assigned him the task of developing a recipe infused with tea, resulting in citrus Darjeeling red snapper.

“In my research to develop the recipe, I discovered that tea, when used skillfully, could play a central role in the culinary scene,” he said.

Since then, he developed other dishes, such as Lapsang Souchong braised beef shortribs, Gyokuro gravlax and hojicha ochazuke with quinoa, edamame and tofu.

His interest in Chinese teas originated in 2011, when a friend introduced him to aged pu’er.

“This is when I was bitten by the bug and began journeying down the never-ending path of gongfu tea,” he reminisced.

With every gathering, Tea Society guests never know which teas they will encounter, in addition to uncovering their history.

Over a week ago, it was heicha, post-fermented teas from various regions in China.

Edelman explained, “Over two weeks ago, Roy brewed the same tea in different styles of teapots to assess a difference. One of the pots was recovered from a tomb and buried during the Ming Dynasty. Sometimes we do blind taste tests of different teas of either the same style or from a different age. There is a lot of experimentation and whimsicalness.”

Most often, at least three different types of tea are sampled.

Edelman explained, “Roy often prepares and serves the teas, but guests are also encouraged. We sit in a circle and often enjoy tea in the Chinese gongfu style of preparation, using a small gaiwan or clay pot for preparation to drink multiple infusions of a tea, to appreciate how it changes over the brewing cycle.”

Teas are also served in other styles, such as in a traditional East Frisian style with cream and rock sugar.

Lamberty and Edelman pinpointed their favorite teas.

“I have come to love pu’er tea because of its ability to change in flavor, aroma and texture from year to year. Additionally, it’s due to the very special feeling known as ‘chaqi,’ derived from pu’er, harvested from ancient trees,” Lamberty said.

Edelman’s favorite tea is Da Hong Pao. “It’s a semi-oxidized oolong tea grown in the Wuyishan Mountains of Fujian, China. The taste is described in Chinese as ‘yen yun’ or rock rhyme. It’s super rich in minerals, since the soil is rocky, and tastes like cherries, leather and brown sugar.”

The society’s website features an intricate tea timeline, as far back as 6,000 B.C.

Lamberty explained what he considers to be the most amazing story in the tea world.

“It’s the story of Robert Fortune, who the British sent into China disguised as a Chinese aristocrat to steal the secrets of cultivating tea. This is where Darjeeling tea is derived from. The full story is told in, ‘For All the Tea in China’ by Sarah Rose.”

Another highlight occurred in the year 729. The timeline reads, “The Japanese emperor Shomu serves Chinese tea to visiting monks. The monks are inspired by the tea and decide to grow it in Japan. The monk Gyoki dedicates his entire life to the cultivation of tea in Japan, during which he built 49 temples, each with a tea garden.”

Jumping to 1707, Thomas Twining placed tea on the menu at his London coffeehouse, and then converted it in 1717 to the first tea shop, “The Golden Lyon,” which became the first place for women to meet and socialize publicly.

In 1880, Thomas Lipton purchased plantations in Ceylon and introduced Lipton tea with a slogan, “Direct from the tea gardens to the teapot.”

The paper tea bag is taken for granted, but that luxury originated in 1953 by Tetley tea Company, setting a norm worldwide.

Today, over 2.5 million teas are grown and produced in greater than 40 countries.

The culture of tea drinking and its accessibility was captured in late 19th century trade cards, featuring detailed lithograph style illustrations and text.

One standout from 1884 represented the Consumers Importing Tea Company at 8 Church Street in Manhattan. “It’s not surprising that it markets the teas as pure, since there was concern, similar to today. The styles of tea mentioned can all be sampled today, along with new styles and cultivars. Experimentation is a never-ending practice,” Edelman said.

Consumers Importing Tea Company trade card, 1884. Courtesy of Michael Perlman’s collection.

A wide range of benefits is associated with tea.

Lamberty explained, “To prepare gongfu tea requires that you separate from the bustling world around you and enjoy the moment. After your meditative moment, you can experience the alert calmness brought on by the combination of caffeine and L-theanine. Some teas are loaded with antioxidants and will eliminate toxins.”

Edelman calls tea an all-around healthy drink and highlighted heicha, which is scientifically associated with weight loss.

Nestled behind Jade Eatery in Forest Hills Gardens is the long-forgotten Tea Garden, awaiting restoration.

It was designed by prominent architect Grosvenor Atterbury and notable landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. in 1912, coinciding with the Forest Hills Inn.

Both Lamberty and Edelman envision joining forces with Jade’s owner, Kumar.

“Offering Gongfu tea tasting sessions in a historical tea garden would be a perfect setting. It would be filled with historical and mythological stories, which would amaze guests,” Lamberty said.

Edelman continued, “Our neighborhood’s history and culture lies dormant and often hidden in plain sight. We need to find ways to educate the public, as well as reestablish the sense of pride and community that existed not too long ago. Restoring the Tea Garden would add another treasure, on par with Eddie’s Sweet Shop and Forest Hills Stadium’s rebirth.”

Tradition at NYTS. Photo by Michael Perlman

The society continues to gain fans.

“I am pleased to learn that the New York Tea Society is based in Forest Hills, and look forward to sharing the good news with friends,” said Belén Mendoza, who became passionately acquainted with tea during cafe study sessions with a dear college friend. “I relished the relaxing and uplifting elements of a steaming cup of tea, prepared to perfection. I wish the society wonderful success in reaching avid tea lovers, near and far, and I would love to attend a tea time event.”

Alexandra Shambhavi Stutman admires the sacredness of tea and “Tea Time,” which her yoga teacher from Japan introduced her to.

She recalled their quote, “Tea is liquid meditation.”

“From the moment you prepare the herbs, pour hot water, stir the cup, and all the way until you are slowly savoring it, it’s meditation and an art. I try to make it a meditative ritual, even honoring those who planted the seeds for the tea leaves to grow and harvested them.”

She is now in the Andean city. “Tea Time is practically a must, so between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m., people of all ages gather at tea or coffee shops.”

Queens Name Explorer project honors notables

Michael Perlman on December 14, 2022

Mapping the names of streets, buildings, parks

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

Mickey Leigh, black shirt center, among FHHS grads, The Ramones Way, Oct 2016, Photo by Michael Perlman.

Every day, residents take a stroll, relax in a park, encounter a sculpture, attend school, go to work and take pride in “home sweet home,” but not everyone stops to wonder, “What’s in a name?”

Throughout Queens, a borough that is most culturally diverse and the largest in land area, lies a trail of street names, building names and scenic destinations awaiting rediscovery.

Thanks to the recently launched Queens Name Explorer project, the accomplishments and memory of our ancestors will be honored by telling their story, and the public is invited to participate.

“I believe that the history of Queens is one of the richest histories in America, and the Queens Name Explorer project is helping to preserve this great legacy,” said Jason D. Antos, executive director of the Queens Historical Society and author of seven Queens history books.

He describes the street names of Queens and greater New York City as “fascinating.”

“There is a lot of depth and history behind some of these names, and the public should be educated about who these people or places are,” he continued.

Antos was born in Flushing and is a 38-year resident of Whitestone. Since high school, he has been intrigued by Queens history, and feels there are some mysteries that need to be solved.

Jason Antos, Queens Historical Society executive director & Queens Memory presenter.

“There are so many names of families and individuals of whom I would love to know about,” he said. “We must preserve our local history to pass down these stories to future generations.”

Jackson Heights resident Natalie M. Milbrodt is the Metadata Services coordinator at the Queens Central Library.

She not only founded and directs the Queens Memory Project, but serves as director of Queens Name Explorer project, its outgrowth.

“Since the Queens Memory Project’s founding in 2010, I lead a talented team of staff and volunteers who recorded approximately 1,000 oral history interviews. We also host countless public events and workshops on local history, memoir and archival preservation,” Milbrodt said.

The twofold mission is to raise awareness of local history collections and to encourage Queens neighbors to contribute their own history to the library.

“Every volunteer who records an oral history interview with a neighbor, friend or relative and shares it with us, has made a contribution to the way future researchers will understand Queens in 2022,” she continued.

The Queens Name Explorer project originated from a dialogue with their technology partner, Urban Archive, about how to explore monuments and other named Queens sites.

“Currently, there’s a national conversation about how the individuals we celebrate in public places with statues and other namings, shape our understanding of what is important to know about the past. There was no single list of honorary namings for schools, streets, parks, and other public places, so we wanted to create one,” Milbrodt said.

Data specialist Angela Miskis was appointed to mine public datasets for places named after individuals, while a team of researchers under Lori Wallach assembles biographical information about each honored notable.

Geraldine Ferraro Way unveiled Oct 2012, alongside historic Ascan Ave & Austin St names, Photo by Michael Perlman.

“All data is public, but our project is bringing it all together for the first time. Thanks to Urban Archive, we are able to present it in the form of an interactive map, where visitors can locate named places in any section of Queens,” Milbrodt explained.

“Since our emphasis as the Queens Memory Project is on people’s lived experiences and personal connections to history, our goal was to create an opportunity through this map for people to share the kinds of details about those who are honored, but not included in official proclamations or historical markers.”

The public can explore the Queens Name Explorer map and share their story and photos at https://nameexplorer.urbanarchive.me.

“Anyone can click the ‘Add/Edit’ button to share a photo, a memory or report a missing or damaged sign online,” she said.

The majority of data is honorary street names after notables of the past century.

“We want their friends, family members and colleagues to share stories and photographs, which will offer a better sense of their personalities, talents and motivations for the pursuits that inspired their neighbors to honor them after their passing,” said Milbrodt.

There are over 700 live entries on the interactive map, and hundreds more will follow in the upcoming weeks.

“I want to get their names live on the site quickly, so people can begin interacting with them by sharing photos and stories,” Milbrodt said.

This project has no expiration date. “We will keep compiling biographical details in the coming months and years,” she added.

Milbrodt also referenced mysteries, since some mapped street names are in need of bios.

She explained, “We are beginning an outreach campaign to public schools and community boards to help us solve these mysteries, but invite anyone with an interest in local history to see if they can contribute.”

To date, a search through some archives retrieved no results for Gerard Place in Forest Hills, but rumor has it that it was named after a farmer.

Local residents wonder how the Rego Park Crescents were named, which consist of Asquith, Boelsen, Cromwell, Dieterle and Ellwell Crescents, followed by Fitchett Street.

Local interactive map entries include a number of sites, but await historic data from the public, as in the case of P.S. 175 The Lynn Gross Discovery School and Annadale Playground, J.H.S. 157 Stephen A. Halsey, P.S. 220 Edward Mandel, P.S. 144 Col. Jeromus Remsen, P.S. 174 William Sidney Mount, J.H.S. 190 Russell Sage, P.S. 206 The Horace Harding School, Ehrenreich-Austin Playground, Samuel Picker Square and Lefrak Memorial Square.

Stephen A. Halsey JHS 157 in 1949.

Bios appear for local sites, but also await public contributions.

They include Rabbi Dr. Asher Murciano Way, MacDonald Park – named after Captain Gerald MacDonald, Federoff Triangle – named after Barnett and Gussie Federoff, William Cooper Walk, Harry Van Arsdale, Jr. Avenue (69th Road), Abe Miller Way, Walter Becker Way, The Ramones Way, Rue Barry Lewis Way, Detective Jeffrey A. Lee Way, Ilyau Aronov Corner, Alex Braginsky Drive and Nathaniel Schneider Triangle.

Walter Becker Way unveiled, Oct 2018. Photo by Michael Perlman

Milbrodt shared her passion for the larger picture of history. “History is most interesting when I can learn about larger historical events through the lives of individuals. I think we often fail to see how we are all part of history, how much our circumstances shape our lives and how much each of us can impact the future.”

On Dec. 6, Antos, in partnership with Queens Memory, presented “Naming Queens” at the North Forest Park library branch, which attracted a great turnout.

He demonstrated how residents can have a street co-named and pinpointed notables who are honored locally. A recording will soon be published in the digital archives, and the public can anticipate similar programs over time.

Antos is open to street co-naming collaborations with residents and community organizations.

“In 2015, I worked with Bayside Historical Society to co-name the intersection of Northern Boulevard and Marathon Parkway as Matinecock Way, honoring the history of the Native Americans of Queens. This tribe once resided in villages spanning Little Neck, Flushing, Pomonok, Bayside, College Point, Douglaston and Whitestone.”

Milbrodt cited solid examples of public interaction. A main map entry is for Joe Imp Way in Long Island City, followed by a second entry consisting of an image and detailed story by his widow, Marie Imparato.

“You can see that the photo isn’t perfect, but her contribution is so moving and personal, and it’s precisely what we were hoping for. As for the person who moves to an apartment building on that street a century from now, ‘Joe Imp’ will just be words on a sign, until they come across Marie’s contribution,” she said.

A contributor who has superb local expertise is Ed Wilmarth III, historian of the Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department, who told the story behind Chief Christian Hoobs Way.

Another example is Susan Latham’s contribution to an entry for Latham Park entry, named after her grandfather.

There have been four walking tours of named places in Forest Hills, Ridgewood, Long Island City and Jamaica, in affiliation with Open House New York in October.

Another public lecture was led by geographer Joshua Jelly-Schapiro, which entailed named places and their role in capturing local history.

On Jan. 4, the team will host an “office hours” event online to address questions about Queens Name Explorer, and will feature additional information on site navigation and the resource’s progress.

The public can visit various online resources, such as the Project Launch clip: https://queenslibrary.aviaryplatform.com/r/3f4kk95b4r and the Latham Park clip: https://youtu.be/rDYKKX38Yos.

For more information, follow @queensmemory on Instagram or visit their Facebook page www.facebook.com/queensmemory.

Authentic Mexican food & entertainment at Lime & Salt Cantina

Michael Perlman on December 7, 2022

A small business with a huge heart

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

Obet Juarez & his staff Emmanuel, Francisco, William, Claudia, Isidro and Catalino give a thumbs up to community.

Queens is nicknamed the “The World’s Borough.” Holding up to its title is a most diverse culinary landscape, where Lime & Salt Cantina holds the mark of distinction for a Mexican restaurant and bar, inspired by iconic taquerias and longtime traditions.

At 98-102 Queens Boulevard in Rego Park, freshly prepared authentic dishes, cocktails and entertainment come together in a colorful ambiance, creating a unique community destination.

Owner Obet Juarez, a 34-year-old Sunnyside resident, cultivated his dream by bringing part of his native residence of Puebla, Mexico to Queens Boulevard, which came to fruition on Feb. 4 of this year.

From the moment patrons enter, they are often greeted by Juarez and his friendly team. Then the personalization continues while sitting at cozy booths or at the bar, creating the sensation of an extended family.

“My recipe for success is to love what I do,” Juarez said.

The chef is his brother, who not only has experience preparing Mexican dishes that resemble “food art,” but with cuisines including French, Italian and Greek.

“We learned from our mother’s style of cooking and loved it so much, that we wanted to share it with the world by offering our food alongside our famous cocktails to introduce something special for the neighborhood.”

His role model also included his bosses. “I saw how well it went for them, so over the years, I wanted to do the same,” he continued.

A bird’s-eye view of authenticity, courtesy of Lime & Salt.

Signature elements of Puebla, the fourth-largest Mexican city, include its culinary history, pottery and Colonial architecture.

Juarez, who emigrated to the U.S. at age 16, has worked in the culinary industry ever since.

He recalled, “I began working as a dishwasher and then I moved into the kitchen. From there, I worked on the floor and was a bartender for 10 years.”

Juarez takes pride in his heritage. He said, “Throughout my time working in Manhattan, I wanted to open a place that felt like home. I dreamt of a Mexican restaurant, where I could sell food that originated in my home country.” The restaurant name bears cultural significance. “We came up with our name, ‘Lime & Salt’ through the years of saying it, since we use lime and salt for our tacos, beer, shots and more foods. It’s very common and the name sounds catchy,” said Juarez.

Lime & Salt’s walls feature murals of a map of Mexico with maracas, a calavera, which is known as a decorative skull, tacos and a chihuahua bearing the Lime & Salt logo.

Other decorative features include a mariachi sombrero, tequila bottles and traditional colorful collectibles hanging from the walls and the ceiling.

Without a doubt, Lime & Salt’s ambiance has been a breeding ground for unique memories since its opening.

“We have a mural that says, ‘Will You Mariachi Me?,’ and we actually had a couple who got engaged here and took a picture with it,” Juarez said.

Site of a proposal. Photo by Michael Perlman

Patrons can sing their way into the weekend with karaoke every two weeks on Friday beginning at 7 PM (subject to change). Occasionally, a DJ adds to the vibe.

Juarez explained a most anticipated dish as the nachos and steak nachos to be specific.

“It comes with mozzarella, black beans, ranch, sriracha, pico de gallo, guacamole and any choice of meat ranging from chicken, chorizo, al pastor, steak, shrimp and birria, but what makes the nachos special is the way our chef prepares the chipotle cheese sauce.”

As for the most unique dishes, he highlighted “mole enchiladas.”

“It is from my hometown. It’s a very unique sauce that is made with 60 ingredients. Examples are chocolate, almond, crackers, raisins and different kinds of chili peppers. It’s a sweet sauce, which is very common where I’m from.”

Their signature dish, “Boulevard Molcajete,” consists of carne asada, chicken, chorizo, queso frito, nopales, papalo leaves, cebollitas, cilantro and salsa mocha, which is served with rice, beans and tortillas.

To warm up this winter, “caldo de pollo” soup or “tortilla soup” would do the trick.

Patrons also have a lesson while enjoying a wide selection of taqueria, such as “al pastor,” consisting of onions, cilantro, marinated pork, grilled pineapple, salsa verde, radish and cucumber, which is served with three tacos. Eye-catching sides include adobo fries and nopales & cebollitas.

A meal is not complete without dessert. A classic is the “tres leches” Mexican milk cakes.

A full lineup of unique cocktails includes a “Rego Park Old Fashion,” consisting of bourbon, amaro Averna, special house syrup and orange aromatic bitters.

Signature cocktails, courtesy of Lime & Salt

For additional zing, choose a “Sweet & Spicy.” This is a serrano-infused tequila, passionfruit, triple sec and of course, lime and salt tajin.

Juarez is a humanitarian. “I donated outside of my restaurant, but we are open to partnering and contributing to community causes,” he said.

Additionally, he is open to hosting community events, family gatherings, parties for all occasions and catering outside his restaurant.

Besides maintaining his dream business that supports the community, his family and staff, he said, “My long-term plan is to create more jobs by opening more businesses.”

Patrons have warmly welcomed Lime & Salt.

A bustling crowd.

Forest Hills resident Audrey Pavey explained, “After reading about this restaurant on Facebook six months ago, I decided to stop by and try it. I had the ‘Mexican cobb salad’ and I always get it to go. I get home late from work and I’m always looking for a quick and convenient place. I love the flavor of the chicken, chorizo, avocado and corn. I am a creature of habit.”

She also admires the rapport and embraces the small business model.

“The owner and staff are very friendly and always invite me to have a seat at the bar, while I wait for my food to go. It’s a very comfortable atmosphere,” Pavey said. “I try to support our local businesses whenever I can, since it’s important to have a thriving community with places to eat, drink and congregate. I hope Lime & Salt remains part of our community for a long time to come.”

“The food is fresh and full of flavor, and we love it,” said Niki Szenasi of Rego Park. Her daughter can attest to that. “So far, I’ve ordered delivery. My two favorite dishes are the chicken quesadilla and the chicken burrito. The ambiance is colorful and fun. I’m also such a loyal customer due to the friendliness of the staff. Every time I call to place an order, the person on the phone is welcoming and overall very pleasant. It’s so important to preserve small businesses since they add personality and character to our neighborhood and help put money back into it,” Szenasi said.

She envisions holding events there. “I could totally see myself hosting a Women’s Empowerment gathering. It’s a wonderful addition to our neighborhood and I’ll continue supporting Lime & Salt.”

Forest Hills resident Lauren Gantman cannot forget the veggie fajita, which she first tried last summer, and most certainly the accommodations.

“I have food allergies, so the wait staff and manager checked all ingredients. They were able to adjust the platter specifically. It’s important to feel safe eating in a restaurant,” she said.

Eddie Alvarez and his family, who live nearby at Birchwood Towers, discovered Lime & Salt over the summer after encountering Yelp.

“One evening, my wife, our three-year-old and I were blown away by the hospitality, food, overall service and experience. We are big foodies and eat here quite a bit,” he said. “We have been here on Fridays for Happy Hour, as well as socializing with family, friends and kids. I have a small group of Forest Hills dads and we grab drinks occasionally, and last week, my wife scheduled a ‘mom’s night out.’”

Some favorite dishes that they don’t seem to deviate from are nachos, mahi-mahi tacos and shrimp tacos.

Their daughter orders from the Kids Corner menu, and enjoys her empanadas and French fries.

“The food is authentic and seasoned just right, and the drinks measure up,” he continued.

When Juarez is not in the dining area and interacting with patrons, he cherishes his family time, especially with his two daughters.

Owner Obet Juarez & manager William, Photo by Michael Perlman.

“We hope to impress this lovely neighborhood and offer new experiences. From what we have noticed, it’s filled with wonderful people who are from various countries, and we are happy to be part of the community,” Juarez said.

Lime & Salt’s hours of operation are from 11:30 am to 11 pm on Monday to Thursday and Sunday, and until 1 AM on Friday and Saturday.

Patrons can call (718) 275-1575 or place an order online via Grubhub, Seamless, Uber Eats and DoorDash.

For more information about this community gem, visit www.facebook.com/limeansaltRegopark, @lime_andsalt on Instagram or www.limeandsaltregopark.com.

Celebrating traditions through vintage Thanksgiving postcards

Michael Perlman on November 30, 2022

Reviving forgotten postcard treasures

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

An early 1900s gobble-producing mechanical postcard.

Historians consider the first Thanksgiving meal to date to 1621, where 53 Mayflower pilgrims and 90 Wampanoag Native Americans at Plymouth shared an autumn feast for a three-day period.

Thanksgiving traditions came to life through highly stylized and vibrant hand-colored lithograph postcards.

Today, they are considered to be collectible works of art.

In 1873, the first American picture postcard was designed.

A significant number of postcards of the late 19th and early to mid-20th century exist in good to excellent condition and feature handwritten messages and one-cent and two-cent stamps.

Deltiology is the collection and study of postcards, which derives from “deltion,” a Greek term for a writing tablet or letter. Therefore, a postcard collector is known as a deltiologist.

Several decades ago, postcards could be found at a corner pharmacy, but today they can be purchased at postcard shows and estate sales or on eBay. Amazingly, the topics represent nearly every theme imaginable, capturing the history of hometowns and hobbies to holidays.

As a deltiologist, it is timely to explore the artistry and history associated with Thanksgiving postcards by pinpointing highlights.

Mechanical postcards are most interactive and were cleverly engineered, which is why such postcards continue to operate approximately 120 years later.

In one postcard, a collector lightly presses the stomach of one of two elaborately illustrated turkeys, and it produces a “gobble.”

Steps away is the Hudson River with lustrous rays from the Statue of Liberty in the background. The application of color evokes the feeling of a watercolor painting.

The “Macy Color Views of New York” postcard series captures the magic of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade as of 1939, a year that is more recent than nearly all Thanksgiving postcards. This chrome postcard features a toy soldier float making its way alongside the Columbus Monument.

The 1939 Thanksgiving Parade, R.H. Macy & Co. series.

A caption reads, “Annual mile pageant of giant helium-filled balloons escorts Santa Claus to the world’s largest store at Broadway & 34th Street.” Since postcards are the catalyst for historic research, the viewer learns that the parade originated in 1924 and once featured animals from the Central Park Zoo.

Then floats were introduced and would be released into the air with a return address. If one was fortunate enough to find it after the parade ended, they would be a prize winner.

Some Thanksgiving postcards are embossed, adding an engaging feel to the realistic, yet dreamy hand-colored images, coupled with illustrations known as add-ons.

A divided back postcard from 1910 has “Thanksgiving Series Number 906” printed on the back, with the name A.S. Meeker, N.Y, granting insight on its publication.

It features a harvest theme with apples, grapes, corn, wheat and a pumpkin as part of a border formed by branches with Elm tree leaves.

It frames a river scene consisting of a rich autumn sky over a river with a farmhouse and a cow grazing. A turkey walks along the branches, overlooking the scene.

Other postcards in this series feature similar imagery and design details, hence telling a story.

A significant artist was Ellen Hattie Clapsaddle (1865 – 1934), whose style has drawn much admiration, making her the most prolific postcard and greeting card artist of her time.

In one of her signed postcards, children have big eyes on a pie after presumably baking it, considering their hats.

A product of the famed artist Ellen Clapsaddle.

The postcards offer a lesson within themselves when it comes to calligraphy, as each one is personalized.

Some of her postcards were accompanied by poetry: “Oh sing a song of pumpkin pies; And turkeys roasted brown; Thanksgiving Day is here again. And come this year to crown. Oh pray receive my wholesome wishes, For well-prepared Thanksgiving Dishes.”

This postcard was produced by International Art Publishing Company of New York and Philadelphia, as evident by a logo on the reverse featuring an eagle landing on a planet.

This subsidiary was founded by Wolf & Co. and Art Lithographic Publishing Co. to assume production of their souvenir and holiday postcards.

They were significant as a publisher of artist-signed cards and operated largely between 1895 and 1915.

Their firm was located at 3 and 5 Waverly Place in New York.

John Winsch (1865 – 1923) of Stapleton, New York was co-manager of the Art Lithographic Publishing Company.

He copyrighted his artist signed greeting cards, where many were published in sets, and produced approximately 4,000 designs between 1910 and 1915.

He was highly recognized for his Thanksgiving and Halloween postcards. He also used European artists who worked with his German printers.

His circa 1909 postcard, printed in Germany, consists of a black and white photographic window into nearly a few hundred years earlier, where pilgrims are preparing for their meal.

It is offset by a Victorian green, red and golden yellow color scheme, which dominates the large frame featuring ornate details, corn, a fall moon and triumphant instruments.

Some of Winsch’s cards feature poetry such as that of John Greenleaf Whittier (1807 – 1892).

An excerpt from his work, “Peace Autumn,” reads: “Thank God for rest, where none molest, And none can make afraid, for Peace that sits as Plenty’s guest, Beneath the homestead’s shade.”

Artist John Winsch & poet John Greenleaf Whittier: Significant art coming together.

He was noteworthy as an American Quaker poet, an advocate for abolishing slavery and a founder of “The Atlantic Monthly.”

His friends included Mark Twain and Frederick Douglass. His poetry reflected rural life, religion and nature.

The pilgrims’ arrival at Plymouth Rock was featured on a postcard by Raphael Tuck & Sons, where traditional colors, texture and emotions are brilliantly captured.

This firm was founded in London by Raphael Tuck (1821 – 1900) and operated from 1866 to 1959. Other locations included Paris, Berlin, Montreal, and 298 Broadway and 122 – 124 Fifth Avenue.

In 1894, his son, Adolph Tuck, created their first picture postcard.

Pilgrims’ arrival at Plymouth Rock by the significant firm, Raphael Tuck & Sons.

This prominent publisher was considered “Art publishers to their majesties the king and queen,” as noted on the reverse of their postcards, since Queen Victoria granted them the Royal Warrant of Appointment in 1883. These postcards are among the most desirable by collectors.

Certain postcards offer a lesson in patriotism, where at least one in the Gottschalk series exhibits a very rare 47-star American flag, symbolic of New Mexico’s addition in January 1912. The flag was active for only a month.

Victorian masterpiece, Gottschalk series with a rare 47-star American flag, 1912.

The colorful and highly stylized postcard series frequently says “Thanksgiving Greetings,” and this card also features an ornate gold embossed border, flowers and fruits marking a prosperous harvest, as well as a family of turkeys with teepees forming the backdrop.

Gottschalk, Dreyfuss & Davis Co. Ltd. was active from 1904 to 1915 and operated offices in New York, London and Munich.

Sometimes a menu was brought to the recipient; not always in the form of food, but a selection of blessings.

One such Gilded Age style postcard in this series features a pilgrim boy and girl, shoulder to shoulder, holding up graceful desserts, while a turkey, pumpkin and leaves add much character.

The entrée menu reads: “Health a la Wealth, Prosperity, Garnished with Joys, True Love, Happiness, Long Life.”

An E. Nash “Health a la Wealth” menu postcard.

Grapes are depicted on the menu as a symbol of abundance and good fortune.

This circa 1910 series was produced by New York publisher E. Nash.

Among the best Thanksgiving postcards highlights a Victorian-era family, ready for their cozy feast, marked by an elegant table setting under a gas lamp.

One artist brilliantly captured the anticipation between a husband and wife with a “Home Sweet Home” frame over the mantel, and a cat that is ready for the occasion, with a bowtie.

Embossed in gold leaf is “Welcome Thanksgiving Day.”

The design has a 1908 copyright by M.W. Taggart, a New York City-based firm from 1905 to 1910. Their specialty was holiday and greeting postcards with patriotic and humorous themes and a superb use of primary colors.

“Welcome Thanksgiving Day” by M.W. Taggart, 1908.

Many postcards feature handwritten messages, often with fine penmanship, either written with a fountain pen or in pencil.

It reads: “Dear Teacher, This card is from Carlie Strumguist. Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving. Good bye.” The recipient is Frances C. Smith.

Over a century later, the spirit of past generations has its way of communicating.

Sounding the alarm: Race to preserve historic FDNY pedestals

Michael Perlman on November 23, 2022

Joining forces after a restored fire alarm pedestal vanishes

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

Northern Blvd & 55th St, The now missing historic alarm side by side with its plain replacement, Photo courtesy of FDNY.

For over a decade, Woodside resident and volunteer John S. Colgan, nicknamed the “Fire Alarm Box Guy,” has meticulously restored historic cast-iron V.F. (Valentine Fendrich) fire alarm box pedestals.

But without any individually landmarked via the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, some are being removed, including one of Colgan’s restored models in Woodside.

In an age of rapid demolition, residents worry that another chapter of the city’s historic character is further being diminished.

A couple of weeks ago, some locals, including Colgan, were devastated to learn that Box No. 7802, a 1921 V.F. pedestal on Northern Boulevard and 55th Street in Woodside, was removed and replaced with a plain rectangular 1950s-style O’Brien model a few feet away.

“Ten years ago, my mother gave me some money and told me, ‘Go paint and clean the neighborhood.’ No one could have known that simple gesture would lead me a decade later to advocating for the preservation of the FDNY fire alarms,” Colgan said.

John Colgan applying finishing touches, V.F. model, 67th Ave & Queens Blvd, Photo by Michael Perlman.

Today, there are an estimated 15,077 fire alarm boxes citywide. A majority of the ornate V.F. models date to 1913, 1921 and 1931, whereas the 1950s non-descript O’Brien models have a prototype dating to 1947.

The historic treasures exhibit Beaux Arts meets Art Nouveau vine-like lacework, topped by a torch, where details are often enhanced in gold to accentuate their craftsmanship.

This columnist helped Colgan survey Forest Hills and Rego Park’s historic pedestals and actively supported the restoration process.

Locally, Colgan dedicated a year toward restoring a circa 1929 model on 67th Avenue and Queens Boulevard, which was completed in August, followed by another on 66th Avenue and Queens Boulevard, where restoration is now underway.

Each of Colgan’s restoration projects becomes a public show, as witnessed by passersby who gain an education on their history and intricate nature behind restoration.

As a result, an online petition was posted a week ago, requesting NYC Individual Landmark status for all remaining historic pedestals, a halt on their removal by the FDNY and a reversal on the ones that were already removed.

So far, the petition garnered nearly 600 signatures plus comments.

John Colgan restoring the 66th Ave & Queens Blvd V.F. pedestal, Photo by Michael Perlman.

Colgan believes that no one is suggesting that every pedestal remain precisely where they are.

“We have to be realistic with our goals of preservation, but the city and the FDNY did not consult with local residents to see where we wanted our community’s alarms to be reset. Box No. 7802 was removed and the community does not know where it is located.”

He suggested that it could have been moved two blocks away to a major intersection of Broadway and Northern Boulevard, or placed at a park within his community’s crossroads.

Years earlier, a historic model met the same fate on Austin Street and 70th Road, as well as in front of the Forest Hills Post Office, where a circa 2012 O’Brien replacement is already falling apart.

Referencing the Woodside scenario, an FDNY spokesperson explained that the intersection is part of the NYCDOT street redesign to address pedestrian safety.

“The V.F. pedestal was too close to the intersection where work was being completed. DOT contractors are tasked to install a new O’Brien pedestal in the new pre-determined location, so we can de-energize the old pedestal and activate a new one to avoid any prolonged out of service issues of the alarm box. In this situation, the old V.F. pedestal is returned to an FDNY depot garage. This one will most certainly be preserved.”

The FDNY spokesperson pointed out that if a V.F. pedestal is returned in worse condition, it may be kept for parts for repairs of other such models.

The FDNY Bureau of Plant Operations does not deliberately remove or replace historic pedestals, according to the spokesperson.

“The qualifying reasons for removal and replacement is if the V.F. pedestal is structurally unsound regarding its sub-base or pressure fitted upper portion, which can result in serious injury if it falls. The other is if it is within the perimeter of NYCDOT’s work for pedestrian sidewalk safety. In such cases, the VF pedestals are secured and transported to a FDNY depot, where it is kept for possible future installation elsewhere, if feasible.”

“The FDNY doesn’t produce these types of pedestals anymore. We are vested in the preservation of these historic pedestals and take measures to ensure they are secured and preserved,” the spokesperson continued.

However, after observing the historic pedestal most recently in Woodside, following earlier scenarios, local residents are sounding the red alert.

“Please don’t remove the fire alarms. They mean the world to our communities, for what they symbolize and their historical context,” said Inmaculada Gattas of Kew Gardens.

Another petition signer, tour guide and professor, Riley Kellogg, provided three reasons for on-site preservation.

“These historic fire alarms are beautiful to look at, enhancing the aesthetic experience of a street and neighborhood. It is an educational reminder of the history of our city and technological development. They help keep the appreciation of ‘New York’s Bravest’ in our minds.”

“These boxes are a lovely leftover from my childhood,” added Liz Zollner. “Can’t be fixed? I am sure they could be built to house a modern system. Quit ruining the character of NYC. You have free maintenance from a devoted New Yorker. Let him do his thing.”

Sometimes residents feel a sense of ownership.

“I have one on 70th Ave. and 110th St. I have been wondering for years when they will give it a fresh coat of paint. They should not be removed,” said Mitchel Powers.

Their historic character has been additionally stunning, according to Ida Langsam of Forest Hills.

“John Colgan’s gorgeous restoration brightens up the corner of Queens Boulevard and 67th Avenue, where it is admired by all and adds to the neighborhood’s special nature.”

Colgan sees the fire alarms as the largest and heaviest worldwide.

“It would only seem natural that we would also have the nicest ones in the world, but that is not the case. The FDNY fire alarms are in a horrible condition,” he said, citing decades of paint, rust and human and dog urine, as well as missing pedestal doors, screws, torches and handles.

“The ones that do have all of their parts are being restored citywide by people like me. They grew tired of waiting for the government to do something, and took it upon themselves to paint and preserve their local fire alarms,” said Colgan. Examples are in Brooklyn, Inwood and Northern Queens.

“Local residents decided that their community could not afford to lose such an important piece of our history, so they painted it in hopes that would deter the FDNY from removing their 100-year-old work of art, but that did not turn out to be the case in the fire alarm that I began restoring in Woodside,” he continued.

The NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission’s mission is to regulate NYC’s architecturally, historically and culturally significant buildings and sites after granting landmark or historic district status.

Citywide, greater than 37,800 properties are landmarked, where a majority are located in 154 historic districts and historic district extensions.

The sum includes 1,446 individual landmarks, 121 interior landmarks and 11 scenic landmarks.

Besides facades, individual landmarks can include street furniture.

For historic lampposts, the earliest date to the mid-1800s, and many will continue lighting the way due to the Commission’s blessing.

An estimated 100 historic cast-iron lampposts were identified, which resulted in the “Historic Street Lampposts” designation in June 1997.

It consisted of 62 lampposts and four wall bracket lamps, spanning Queens, the Bronx, Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Notable examples include one on 53rd Avenue between 64th Street and 65th Place in Maspeth and on Rockaway Boulevard near 150th Street.

Meanwhile, the remainder were already safeguarded within historic districts or situated on landmarked sites.

At least seven sidewalk clocks will also keep on ticking, as a result of landmark status.

The clocks were a significant part of the late 1800s NYC landscape.

The designations include a Seth Thomas Co. clock in front of 522 5th Avenue from 1907 and the Bomelstein Jewelers clock by E. Howard & Co. in Greenpoint.

There is much to be discovered about the history of V.F. pedestals.

VF & OB pedestals, 1912 to 1978, Courtesy of FDNY.

To Colgan, each fire alarm is an educational tool for the right teacher.

“The alarms were handmade by long-lost craftsmen and incorporate art, history and American invention and engineering. We don’t know who made the original models and in which foundry, or where the original molds are located and who was the original artist. Many of these questions can be answered over time and by examining multiple alarms, but nothing can be done currently or in the future if there are no alarms left to enjoy.”

Colgan considers them “historic street art.”

“Each is individually made with a unique personality. We must landmark them so future generations can enjoy their beauty, as we do today.”

Honoring Forest Hills’ early veterans

Michael Perlman on November 18, 2022

WWI Soldiers & Sailors Memorial stands tall

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

WWI Soldiers & Sailors Memorial undergoing restoration, Photo by Rocco Del Greco

It is always timely to honor military veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, and one day to maximize that honor for America’s bravest is Veterans Day on Nov. 11.

Forest Hills was named in 1906 and Forest Hills Gardens was founded in 1909. Architecturally and culturally significant buildings, landscapes and monuments add a mark of distinction, and some sites are associated with veterans, including the Captain Gerald MacDonald Statue in MacDonald Park and the landmarked Remsen Cemetery with doughboy sculptures.

Public art is a gift to the masses that bonds the generations, and a most historic and diverse monument is the WWI Soldiers & Sailors Memorial in Forest Hills Gardens.

It is situated on Flagpole Green, formerly known as Village Green. Dedicated in 1920, this ornate Neo-Classical pink granite and bronze monument commemorates 102 Forest Hills residents.

WWI Soldiers & Sailors Memorial circa 1920, Courtesy of Forest Hills Gardens Foundation

The monument reads: “Erected by the citizens of Forest Hills in recognition of the patriotic spirit and loyal devotion of the men of this community who served in the military forces of The United States in The Great War.”

The monument was designed by the renowned American sculptor, Adolph Alexander Weinman (1870 – 1952), who resided nearby at 236 Greenway South and operated a studio at 234 Greenway South.

Sculptor Adolph Weinman, WWI Soldiers & Sailors Memorial

The design symbolizes “The Call to Service” above the 102 names on the tablet.

Since last summer, residents observed meticulous restoration work, resulting in the polishing of the bronze tablet, which was green as far as most residents can recall.

Now it is particularly timely to memorialize and rejoice in the spirit of some of the most well-known and long-forgotten names, which opens a window into countless achievements. Artistry runs in the Weinman family. His son, Howard Kenneth Weinman (1901 – 1976), a WWI veteran, is featured on the monument.

One of his notable achievements is the Long Island Tercentenary Silver Half Dollar, which commemorates the 300th anniversary of the Dutch settlement of Long Island, and was issued in 1936.

Distinctive characteristics are heads of a Dutch settler and an Algonquin Native American, where the heads are alongside one another to represent the harmony among a peaceful settlement.

The reverse features a 17th century Dutch ship in full sail. His father is credited with the Walking Liberty Half Dollar and Winged Liberty Dime.

In some instances, families are featured, as in the case of Dr. Joseph MacDonald, Henry MacDonald, and Captain Gerald MacDonald (1882 – 1929), synonymous with MacDonald Park, named on April 25, 1933.

WWI Captain Gerald MacDonald Statue, Photo by Michael Perlman

The park’s bronze sculpture bears homage to G. MacDonald, an officer of engineers at the Battle of Meuse-Argonne, who also erected bridges and dug trenches.

The sculpture was dedicated on May 27, 1934 by Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia, after American Legion Post 630 allocated $1,500 at the request of veteran Henry MacDonald, Gerald’s brother.

The granite base inscription reads: “Capt. Gerald MacDonald; Memorial Dedicated By Forest Hills Post No. 630 The American Legion; To Those Who Served In The World War; 1934.”

The statue was sculpted by Henry MacDonald’s brother-in-law, Frederic de Henwood, and designed by architect William Henry Deacy.

A.M., David and Howard Springsteen represent one of the first families of Queens.

David Springsteen Residence, Courtesy of Michael Perlman Postcard Collection

This family consisted of influential Dutch farmers who owned farmland encompassing what would currently be the southside of Queens Boulevard between Ascan Avenue and 77th Avenue.

Their property recalls the days of Forest Hills as Whitepot, prior to 1906.

Farmer David Springsteen (1849 – 1911) was also a director of Cord Meyer Development Company and represented the ninth Springsteen generation to settle locally.

His six children, included David, who is inscribed on the monument.

Through the 1940s, the porch-fronted Springsteen homestead, which was erected in 1898, stood at 112 Queens Boulevard and was later renumbered 108-36 Queens Boulevard.

Born in Truxton, N.Y., Cornell graduate and Forest Hills Gardens resident Clarence A. Perry (1872 – 1944) served as a major overseas during WWI and coordinated the post exchange system in training camps.

In 1924, he became a lieutenant colonel in the Reserve. He was an employee of the Division of Recreation of the Russell Sage Foundation from 1909 to 1937.

As an architect and planner, he originated the “Neighborhood Unit” theory in 1924, where he notably advocated for community development entailing educational, physical, social and recreational components.

Perry authored several books, including “Wider Use of the School Plant” (1910), “The Rebuilding of Blighted Areas” (1933), “Planning Improvement of Your Own Neighborhood” (1935) and “Housing for the Machine Age” (1939).

Part of his advocacy included promoting community pageants and plays exhibiting patriotic value, in place of risky Fourth of July fireworks.

WWI veteran Augustin S. Hardart (1889 – 1969) was the son of Frank Hardart, Sr., who with Joseph V. Horn, founded the Horn & Hardart Company, which launched the Automat, an icon of Americana.

Born in New Orleans, A. Hardart settled in New York in 1912 with his brother, Frank.

A. Hardart served as secretary of the company through 1946, followed by vice president.

The first Automat opened in 1902 in Philadelphia, and New Yorkers were proud to experience their first branch in Times Square in 1912.

In New York and Philadelphia, an estimated 800,000 patrons once frequented 180 self-service cafeterias daily, shaping 20th century dining and culture prior to the rise of the fast food industry. Forest Hills offered smaller Horn & Hardart Retail Shops at 71-63 Austin Street and 116-63 Queens Boulevard.

Frank Hardart, Jr (1884 – 1972), the firm’s vice president, resided at 188 Ascan Avenue and 64 Dartmouth Street.

Patrons inserted nickels into a slot on a distinctive display of compartments, turned a knob, opened a glass door and enjoyed fresh sandwiches, entrées or pies in an Art Nouveau or Art Deco ambiance with a signature massive picture window. Fresh drip-brewed coffee emerged from the mouth of a crafted lion or dolphin.

In 1991, the last Automat in New York shuttered, marking the end of a tradition.

The monument takes the viewer into the life of Kenneth G. Judson (1895 – 1970), who resided at 61 Olive Place and whose family was among Forest Hills Gardens’ founders.

He served as Navy ensign during WWI and then joined Judson & Co, a cotton brokerage.

He was a 65-year Gardens resident, who served as the longtime Forest Hills Gardens Corporation president. Additionally, he was a member of the West Side Tennis Club and Sons of the Colonial Wars.

Also featured is WWI veteran Frederick Truesdale Goudy (1899 – 1962), the son of Frederic William Goudy (1865 – 1947), a prominent American typeface designer, who proved that printing is a fine art.

In 1943, the Goudy Collection was acquired by the Library of Congress and considered the most comprehensive of its kind.

More than 100 of his designs were displayed in a 1946 exhibition. The collection consisted of thousands of books, where most featured his typography and design.

Signature titles include “Why We Have Chosen Forest Hills Gardens For Our Home” and “The Alphabet and Elements of Lettering.”

At Village Press in a pre-Revolutionary farm mill that he named Deepdene in Marlboro, N.Y., it was a family operation, with his wife Bertha working at the case and setting up books, and Frederick T. Goudy operating machines, as his father cut the matrices.

The operation was previously located at the family residence on Deepdene Road in Forest Hills Gardens.

Deepdene is a crisp serif type that the elder Goudy designed.

Other highlighted typefaces include Goudy Old Style, Goudy Stout and Copperplate Gothic.

In his obituary, it said, “Mr. Goudy did more to rescue typography from standardized ugliness than any man since William Morris, whose spiritual descendant he was.”

The Goudys worked in the tradition of 16th century artisans.

Village Grill: A town center in Forest Hills

Michael Perlman on November 9, 2022

Embracing the magic touch and humanitarian values for 10+ years

By Michael Perlman

[email protected]

Owner Dina and waitress Angela.

For nearly 11 years, owner Dina Stergiopoulos of Village Grill has opened her heart to Forest Hills patrons and the greater community by working long hours to freshly prepare signature Greek meals and classic American favorites.

Situated on an inviting corner of Ingram Street at 73-01 Yellowstone Boulevard, patrons have sparked friendships with the owner, waitress Angela and fellow patrons, all while enjoying diverse scrumptious foods at reasonable prices.

Along with her late husband, Panagiotis Stergiopoulos, they opened Village Grill on Feb. 28, 2012, which may seem as if it was yesterday.

He was a much-admired face of the community, but passed away on Dec. 31, 2021 after battling cancer.

“My husband was funny, outgoing and always smiling,” Stergiopoulos said.

Panagiotis with food to be donated during the pandemic.

Today her husband is fondly remembered by patrons, and she is committed to keeping his spirit alive with every meal she cooks and by continuing to give back to the community by donating meals to people in need.

Stergiopoulos will host the “Village Grill Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway” on the Tuesday prior to Thanksgiving from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

“There will be 50 turkey meals with mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, biscuits and apple cake. My goals after my husband passed were to become a better person and try to help people and carry on his legacy,” Stergiopoulos said.

“I want to provide a warm home-cooked meal to people in need. This is a way to remember my good-hearted husband, so his soul can be at peace.”

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple donated a total of 40 meals to Long Island Jewish Forest Hills Northwell Health, NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst and the 112th Precinct.

Patrons do not need to travel far to feel as if they are in Greece for an afternoon or dinner engagement, thanks to the charming ambiance that features the color scheme of the Greek flag, model sailboats, paintings and ceramic artwork. One can even take a Greek crash course, where a sign features catchphrases such as “kalo fagito” for “good food,” “orea mera” for “nice day” and “kalimera” for “good morning.”

Stergiopoulos was raised in America, but when she was 16, she built upon her family’s Greek heritage in Athens. Her husband was born and raised in Volos, Greece.

“We came to the USA in 2003 and got married on Oct. 28 of that year,” she recalled.

Dina & her late husband Panagiotis preparing sausage.

They lived in College Point and later relocated to Forest Hills, a close distance to Village Grill.

A tradition runs in the family. “Everyone in my family likes to cook,” said Stergiopoulos.

“My grandma, Pige, was an influence on all of us, as she made everything good, but her signature dish was stuffed grape leaves with rice. My grandma taught me how to prepare them two years before she passed. Mine are good, but my grandma’s were excellent.”

Pige did not use a recipe book. “Her measurements were a handful of this and a pinch of that,” Stergiopoulos chuckled.

Stergiopoulos and her husband had a dream.

“We wanted to work hard and retire in Greece at a small village outside Athens, where he could have a small parcel of land and raise his own chickens and plant vegetables,” she said. “I am focusing on the business very much these days, so I do not feel the pain that is left behind when a loved one goes away. I am very blessed that I have customers; my friends that have supported me. My customers walk into my shop and I mostly know them by name. They walk in and say, ‘Dina, what am I eating today?’ That is a beautiful feeling. I greet my customers like friends that come to visit. It’s beautiful how even customers that moved away still come to dine.”

Village Grill has a “recipe for success.” “I always say we are not perfect, since mistakes happen, especially when it is very busy. If a dish is undercooked or overcooked and is brought to my attention, I will make it right. The one thing I say and I am always proud of is that it’s fresh. This is how I managed to stay open for nearly 11 years,” she said.

Between the walls are many timeless memories.

Dina & her husband Panagiotis upon first opening in 2012 .

Stergiopoulos considers the restaurant as her home that she erected with her husband, and she spends more time at the restaurant than her residence.

“It is our baby,” she said.

A memory of the recent past surfaced. “Even when my husband was ill in the wheelchair, he spent his day at the restaurant window, greeting people as they walked. He did not want to stay home.”

Another fond memory was celebrating her husband’s 55th birthday on April 9, 2021, where not only family was in attendance, but a family of close friends. To mark the occasion, there were 55 balloons.

Dina’s husband Panagiotis, head of table on his 55th birthday with 55 balloons, April 9, 2021.

Family-style recipes are always on the menu, in contrast to gourmet recipes.

Stergiopoulos said, “People want to eat, especially if they’re enjoying their food, so we serve a good-sized portion.” For example, a platter consists of a Greek salad, a side dish and meat. Once a patron orders a platter, they receive their salad as the meat is freshly being prepared.

“Every souvlaki and meat is cooked to order,” she continued.

Stergiopoulos is detail-oriented, which also contributes to her success.

When patrons often ask what makes a great Greek salad, her response is the olives and the feta cheese.

“I only use imported Greek feta and olives. I am in general a big cheese eater, and when I go out to eat, if another restaurant doesn’t know the brand of feta, I won’t order the salad,” she said.

Since day one, she goes on a trek for quality meat. She explained, “I don’t order meat to be delivered, but have to hand-pick it to ensure it is not laying around on a truck. I cut and marinate all of my meat at the restaurant, and it’s never frozen.”

Spinach pie is among her patrons’ favorites. “It is prepared with many fresh herbs and original feta to make the difference,” she said.

Dina & her “Never trust a skinny chef” collectible.

A popular soup is chicken avgolemono, featuring celery, carrots, lemon and orzo.

A unique pita sandwich is Bifteki souvlaki sandwich, which consists of a meatball with spices, tomatoes, red onions and tzatziki sauce.

A beef gyro platter (80 percent beef and 20 percent lamb) and features a small Greek salad, tzatziki, pita and a side of one’s preference.

Also available is a variety of starters, salads, burgers and wraps, such as the Santorini fish wrap and a Mediterranean wrap. Authentic sides include oven-roasted lemon potatoes and grilled vegetables.

A meal is not complete without dessert, such as baklava, galaktoboureko and rice pudding.

A full line of beverages includes Greek coffee, cappuccino and shakes.

Every day on Village Grill’s hot table, comes the “Special of The Day,” which remains identical on certain days. Stergiopoulos said, “Monday is always oven roasted chicken legs. Wednesday is spaghetti Bolognese, and Thursday it’s chicken again, since people love it. Friday is usually a fish dish, Saturday is pastitsio (Greek lasagna) and Sundays is usually beef stew. People ask me what is in this dish, and my answer always is ‘a lot of love,’ since I like to cook and create new recipes.”

Village Grill is open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily, with the exception of Tuesdays, and free delivery is available until 8:45 p.m.

Village Grill’s authentic Greek ambiance.

On her day off, she is an early and determined riser who cleans her home and then enjoys a leisurely walk with her dog, goes shopping and watches TV with Sophie at her side.

“Cleaning is another obsession. If your space at home or in your ‘second home’ is clean and orderly, your life will be,” she said.

If Stergiopoulos decides to retire someday, she hopes to relax, but cannot visualize herself sitting and doing nothing. “I want to volunteer in helping people in any way I can, and especially young children,” she said.

Until then, her priority is Village Grill, where every day she shares her magic touch among a community of friends.

She is open to community partnerships for the upcoming Village Grill Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway, particularly to benefit the needy. Interested organizations can email [email protected] or call 718-544-4024.

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Reviving forgotten postcard treasures

Sounding the alarm: Race to preserve historic FDNY pedestals

Joining forces after a restored fire alarm pedestal vanishes

Honoring Forest Hills’ early veterans

Village Grill: A town center in Forest Hills

Embracing the magic touch and humanitarian values for 10+ years

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