Forest Hills Archives - Queens Ledger

New Law Targets Landlords of Unlicensed Smoke Shops

Iryna Shkurhan on August 16, 2023

Councilmember Lynn Schulman alongside Assistant Chief James Mccarthy of Manhattan South, Senior Advisor to Union Square Travel Agency, Robert Cornegy, and Councilmember Carlina Rivera. Photo courtesy of Councilmember Schulman’s office.

By Iryna Shkurhan | ishkurhan@queensledger.com

New legislation passed by the city council last month is seeking to hold landlords, not business owners, accountable for the unlicensed sale of cannabis under their roof.

The city estimates that there are 8,000 smoke shops, 2,000 of which sell cannabis products, operating illegally across all five boroughs. So far there are only a handful of licensed cannabis dispensaries approved by the state – the majority are located in lower Manhattan. Good Grades in Jamaica is the only cannabis shop operating legally in Queens.

Intro 1001-B, first introduced by Councilmember Lynn Schulman in April, prohibits knowingly leasing a commercial space to a tenant who will utilize it for the distribution or sale of illicit cannabis or tobacco products without a license. Landlords can face a $5,000 civil penalty at first, and a $10,000 penalty for each subsequent violation, if they do not cease the operation.

“This legislation is a game changer and adds another tool to the enforcement toolbox against these harmful businesses,” said Councilmember Schulman at the press conference outside the Union Square Travel Agency Cannabis Dispensary in the East Village. It served as a formal announcement of the legislation which was adopted on July 23.

“We stand here today because we have an obligation to protect a healthy legal cannabis market and ensure that the industry meets its equity goals,” said Councilwoman Carlina Rivera, who also pointed out that those who were disproportionately affected by the war on drugs have priority to receive Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary licenses. In legal shops, there is also a 13 percent sales tax that goes towards community reinvestments.

Councilmember Carina Rivera has several legal cannabis dispensaries in her district. Photo courtesy of Councilmember Schulman’s office.

Officials believe that the illicit market of unregulated products undermines those who took the rigorous legal route of securing a license through the state, as well as the social justice element of cannabis legalization. There is also a health risk to the public when consuming substances that are not officially tested and regulated.

“As you can imagine having in close proximity to here so many illegal shops, it flies in the face of consumer safety, because we don’t know what’s in those products,” said Robert Cornegy, Senior Advisor to the Union Square Travel Agency, and former Councilman. “Our products here are tested by the state and have been proven to be safe for consumption.”

“If a space is being utilized illegally, and an owner is aware, it is appropriate for that owner to be penalized along with others who are knowingly involved in the arrangement,” said Steve Soutendijk, Co-Chair of the Real Estate Board of New York’s Retail Committee.

Schulman also mentioned that in Forest Hills, which falls in her district, there are several cannabis shops operating illegally.

“Illegal smoke and cannabis shops have been an ongoing challenge in our communities,” said Heather Beers-Dimitriadis, Chair of Queens Community Board 6 which encompasses Forest Hills and Rego Park. “It is important to protect our community from businesses selling adulterated cannabis, to protect our city from the theft of tax dollars, and to protect future regulated cannabis shops that continue to open throughout our borough.”

LIJ Forest Hills Celebrates 70 Years With Special Guests

Iryna Shkurhan on August 9, 2023

City Councilmember Lynn Schulman joined hospital staff to celebrate the anniversary. Photo: Iryna Shkurhan

By Iryna Shkurhan | ishkurhan@queensledger.com

In honor of 70 years of treating the Forest Hills community, staff at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills hospital celebrated with recollections and a shared vision for the upcoming decades.

“I realized that we actually just hit 70 years, and that this is a point of pride, it’s not hard to find somebody here who’s worked here for 40 years,” said Executive Director Lorraine Chambers, who stepped into the role two years ago. “I really wanted them to be very proud of what they accomplished and all the transitions over the years.”

Over the decades, the hospital has changed both owners and names numerous times while it remained stationed on 66th Road and 102nd Street.

Chambers took the initiative to plan the celebration and invite special guests, including several former employees who she refers to as “LIJ Forest Hills Alumni.” The dozens who couldn’t make it recorded heartfelt video messages which were compiled and played at the party held in the hospital’s cafe.

“The people here are so tight knit, and they have such an amazing work family culture,” said Chambers on how the hospital manages to retain many of its employees for decades. “So many of the workers here are from the community, so it’s an extremely diverse workforce that can meet the challenges of serving healthcare for an extremely diverse community.”

The hospital debuted as privately owned Forest Hills General with 150 beds and seven stories in 1953. After an insurance scandal shuttered the site a decade later, it reopened as Laguardia Hospital under new management. Its expansion in the 1970s added three new floors and doubled its bed count.

Over the decades, the hospital has changed both names and owners numerous times. Photo: Iryna Shkurhan

But financial difficulties in 1996 led to another name change, North Shore Hospital at Forest Hills, after the North Shore Health System, now known as Northwell Health, based on Long Island took over. In 2006 the moniker was shortened to Forest Hills Hospital, and in 2016 it acquired its current name.

At the celebration, City Councilwoman Lynn Schulman presented LIJ with a proclamation from the city council which recognized its impact on the community. Local elected officials, including Borough President Donovan Richards and State Senator Leroy Comrie, also delivered remarks at the celebration.

“I’ve known this hospital since it was LaGuardia hospital. So that’s how many years I’ve been around. And it didn’t always have a great reputation,” recalled Councilwoman Schulman, a Forest Hills native. “I have been a patient here, and the care has been amazing. The facility, not so great.”

To help the hospital upgrade, Shulman announced that she will allocate four million dollars from city funds, which Northwell agreed to match. She also called on Senator Comrie, who gained representation of the hospital in last year’s redistricting, to contribute state funds during her speech.

Attendee Lee Solomon, 96, spent over 30 years volunteering inside the hospital. After she moved to the Forest Hills area, her search for new connections and a purpose led her to dedicate some of her free time to clerical work. She said the decades-long commitment brought many friends who she considers family into her life. Soloman still lives two blocks from the hospital.

“I don’t think it’s changed that much,” she said. “To me, it’s the people. I’ve found some good friends.”

Gogarty performed at the celebration as a thank you to the hospital for saving his life. Photo: Iryna Shkurhan

Another special guest, Alan Gogarty, was miraculously revived after he spent 23 minutes without a pulse detected inside the hospital. Following strange symptoms, Gogarty checked himself into LIJ and subsequent bloodwork detected he was having a cardiac episode. The staff’s unwavering efforts to revive him led to a full recovery.

“I was a little bit shocked, but then I found it slightly amusing as well,” said Gogarty, recalling waking up from the near death experience. “I wouldn’t be here if not for them.”

Gogarty, an Irish singer who has played professionally for over 33 years, returned to the hospital for a solo guitar performance at the celebration.

He arrived in Queens from Ireland in 2002 and has lived in Sunnyside, Maspeth and Glendale for the past seven years. You can find him playing alone, and with various bands, at Irish bars in Sunnyside.

A two-tier cake featuring an aerial image of 150 employees forming the number “70” was unveiled at the end of the speeches. Old and new employees connected over a slice while trading stories. And while the hospital may continue to change, it has a way of making people stay.

Schulman Will Represent District 29 in Second Term

Iryna Shkurhan on July 5, 2023

By Iryna Shkurhan | ishkurhan@queensledger.com

City Councilmember Lynn C. Schulman secured just over fifty percent of the vote in the democratic primary on July 27, landing a second term representing District 29.

“Now that the results are in, I am heartened by my decisive victory in this primary. This is a result of showing up for our communities, speaking to neighbors, and producing results since I took office,” said Schulman in a press release. “We have fought to make our district healthier and safer, invest in our schools, and support our seniors — and we have succeeded.”

Schulman grew up in Forest Hills and served as Vice-Chair of Community Board 6 for more than 20 years. Throughout her professional career, she served in various roles in government, and in both private and non-profit industries. As a progressive, she is a staunch advocate of LGBTQ rights, accessible healthcare and quality public school education.

“Government can be an incredible tool for our communities if we elect the right people, and as our country veers to the right, we are reminded how vital it is to have progressive women at all levels of government, including the City Council,” said Schulman.

In her first term, she introduced a bill that will hold landlords accountable for leasing to a tenant that uses the space for the distribution or sale of cannabis products without a license.

Running against her was Ethan Felder, an advocate for climate action, more funding towards education and addressing the housing crisis. Progressive Sukhi Singh, a small business owner and Sikh community leader also ran for the seat on a campaign that denounced city council cuts to education in the budget and the lack of affordable housing.

“Thank you to everyone who voted and supported our campaign for change. From the start, our campaign and its people wanted to present a new way of doing politics in our community: one centered in serving people,” said Felder on Twitter the morning after election day. “We engaged our neighborhoods in elevated dialogue about the future, included the perspectives of our youth, and set forth concrete plans for education, public safety and healthcare.”

Felder secured 34.58 percent of the vote, and Singh gathered 10.71 percent, with 99 percent of votes reported, according to unofficial data from the NYC Board of Elections.

“While we may not have earned the most votes, I am deeply grateful to the over 2,000 people who believed and voted for change,” continued Felder. “This movement towards an inclusive and participatory politics must continue – together.”

Schulman is Chair of the Aging Committee and sits on various other committees – Aging, Education, Fire and Emergency Management, Governmental Operations and Criminal Justice. She is also a member of the Jewish, LGBT and Women’s Caucuses.

“We won our primary by building bridges — the same way we are delivering results in the City Council. With the help of a broad coalition of diverse community leaders, colleagues in government, and organized labor, I spread across our Queens communities my vision for the change we need,” said Schulman.

The election occurred just two years into the term due to redistricting which responds to decennial census data. City law requires an off-cycle election every other redistricting cycle to address significant changes to boundaries.

Sections of Rego Park were lost in redistricting, but now the district encompasses the majority of Richmond Hill. The district also gained approximately 5,000 voters, bringing it closer to the citywide average for council districts.

In November, Schulman will go up against Republican Danniel Maio who previously ran for the Queens borough president role.

“Lastly, I am humbled by the opportunity to continue to represent the community I grew up in, alongside the new constituents I have gained,” she said. I am beyond excited to be on my way to a second term in the City Council advocating for a Queens of the future that we can all be proud of.”

Speaker Adams Joins Schulman on Forest Hills Small Business Tour

Iryna Shkurhan on June 21, 2023

The group visited small businesses on Austin St. in Forest Hills.

By Iryna Shkurhan |ishkurhan@queensledger.com

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams joined City Councilmember Lynn Schulman on a tour of small businesses in Forest Hills on Thursday, June 15.

The goal was to gauge the opinions of business owners and their employees on economic concerns, street design and any other frustrations they may have. Many expressed struggles to attract customers and generate the same level of revenue prior to the pandemic, while others shared their thoughts on how to improve the design of bustling Austin Street.

Thomas Grech, the President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, also joined them in going door to door to offer businesses resources on how to expand in today’s digital age, such as social media promotion.

The tour included a visit to a dry cleaning business on Austin Street.

“I really felt good about showing the speaker, all the diversity of the store owners and the kinds of small businesses we have and all of their unique stories,” said Schulman in an interview with the Queens Ledger. “That’s what makes a community, the local mom and pop shops.”

Thank Heaven, a children’s boutique selling baby clothing and toys, is a family run business that has sat on Austin St. for the past 19 years. The owner, Ariena Thomsen, expressed that business has been slow, especially following the pandemic.

“It’s not nearly what it used to be when I first opened,” said Thomsen during the tour.

To stay afloat during the crisis, she took out loans because she was not entitled to pandemic government loan programs because she has no employees. Now she is stuck with paying off the debt, despite less incoming business. And competing with online retailers like Amazon has made it even more difficult to generate revenue.

“We know that while business is improving, it’s not improving for everyone,” said Schulman. “And so we need to help them in certain ways.”

The owner of Renegade Hair Salon, which has been in business in Forest Hills for decades, expressed similar concerns about slower business following the pandemic.

“It’s a lot slower, people are letting their gray grow out, people have really long hair,” said owner Tony Rinkon.

He also complained that there is constant traffic and honking on Austin St. where his storefront stands. And many of his customers blame the traffic and congestion on the street when they come in late for appointments.

“All day long you hear honking,” he said, while expressing to the speaker and councilwoman that he is in favor of converting the street to a one way to create better flow. “If you tried to make the street like they say a pedestrian only might as well shut every store down immediately,” Rinkin added.

Other people in the neighborhood believe that banning cars from Austin St. is the best solution to make the street safer for pedestrians and cyclists, without hurting businesses in the process.

Pedro Rodriguez, a longtime Forest Hills resident, and founder of a safer Austin St. collective, joined the tour to convey support for making segments of Austin St. car free.

“The reality is, the current conditions are preventing certain people from coming here. So there’s a lot more people that will come here more often, but cannot,” said Eric Zolov, a Forest Hills resident who was biking past the tour.

Schulman said that she commissioned the Department of Transportation to conduct a survey of Austin St. to determine what redesign solutions are best.

“As we heard on this tour, there are concerns about congestion, noise, the proliferation of illegal smoke shops, the need for more foot traffic, and additional support needed from all levels of government,” said Speaker Adams in an email to the Queens Ledger. “It’s critical that we continue to listen to our small businesses and local merchants to better understand their challenges and concerns.”

The Eagles Fly Again at Forest Hills Stadium

Michael Perlman on June 14, 2023

By Michael Perlman | mperlman@queensledger.com

Every community has its mysteries, and one remains unsolved at the Stadium.

The two stone eagles that vanished at the base of the iconic Forest Hills Stadium seven decades ago have at last been closely replicated, but in steel with high-tech illumination, and made their way from Rio Rancho, New Mexico and installed.

The eagles traversed nine states in their 2,000-mile drive before arriving in New York: New Mexico (where they were built), Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

Some people may say that the eagles flew in just in time for this summer’s centennial festivities at what was America’s first tennis stadium, later co-adapted into a concert venue and revitalized in 2013.

A sticker featuring an eagle sculpture and a centennial logo read “The Eagles Fly on Friday,” coincided with the unveiling of the two eagles on June 9 during the Dave Matthews Band concert. Their alternating colors formed a beat of their own, as a shoulder-to-shoulder audience danced the night away.

Eagles centennial sticker for Dave Matthews Band.

The archives at the West Side Tennis Club (WSTC) have been unable to determine why the original two stone eagles at far corners of the lower seat level were removed, or potentially where they were relocated to.

“Several eagles that decorated the classic Penn Station and Grand Central Station were rediscovered over the years, and the Archives Council hopes that will materialize at the Stadium,” said WSTC Archives Committee co-chair Bea Hunt. “From documents in the recently acquired Bud Collins Tennis Library and photos in the archives, we have been able to determine that the eagles were removed following the 1951 National Championships and before the 1952 Championships.”

Some history buffs speculated that Alfred Hitchcock’s filming of “Strangers on a Train” during the 1950 Davis Cup cast a spell on them.

Some materials indicate that the stone eagles surrounding the upper perimeter of the Stadium are original from 1923. “One and possibly more eagles have been reconstructed over the years. The one we know of is from 1950, when Althea Gibson was playing,” said Hunt.

Additional research is underway, but as for the original stone eagles, if any longtime WSTC members or the public can pinpoint their whereabouts and reason for removal, the Archives Council is all ears: archives@thewestsidetennisclub.com

Now it’s time to step behind the scenes and embark on a journey of the nearly replicated two eagles, which are now designed in steel. Norman C. Ruth is Vice President of Deluxe Design, Inc, who collaborated with sculptor Jake Smith.

“The mystery behind the original eagles is fantastic,” said Ruth.

Since the first efforts were made to restore and reinvent Forest Hills Stadium as a viable concert venue, Deluxe Design has been on scene.

“Our firm alongside the Stadium team and creative director Bill Sullivan, pushed the envelope in exploring, designing, and manufacturing the branded signage. Now our involvement in the eagle project has truly been an honor that we hold close to us, and we choose to elevate every aspect of the project,” said Ruth.

“I am honored and couldn’t be prouder that my work is part of the living history that is Forest Hills Stadium,” said Smith.

Ruth feels historic preservation is essential. “Our history as a creative society has been, and continues to be erased by the next real estate project such as a strip mall, but our commitment to the future must be to also preserve the past,” he said. As for Smith, he considers preservation as imperative for maintaining and evolving the cultural values that reflect communities. “In the case of a stadium like Forest Hills, preservation is also an opportunity to build community through shared experiences and traditions,” he continued.

As American society all too often pitches a throwaway culture, Smith speculates that one or both eagles were likely damaged and presumably sent to a landfill.

Stepping into the stadium, Ruth reminisced what the ambiance was initially like. “Every crack, flaw and aged surface gives me a feeling of nostalgia, and respect for the craftspeople and masters of trades that brought the building to life 100 years ago. What a time it must have been!”

His personal celebration was the feeling of satisfaction of a successful adventure, and a dance with the Dave Matthews Band.

Sharing Ruth’s emotions, Smith could spend hours eyeing various architectural features. “I also love that it is vibrant and full of life. It is a whimsical place that honors its history, while granting visitors a modern entertainment experience,” he added.

Forest Hills Stadium concert manager Mike Luba emailed Ruth on March 13 at 4:36 p.m. with links depicting the eagles. “He asked me to give him a shout, and that’s when the wheels started turning,” said Ruth. Smith received a firm go-ahead around April 10, and he would apply his handiwork for an amazing 345 hours spanning seven weeks.

“Each sculpture is 513 pounds and 64 inches in height, with approximate 48-inch wide wings, shoulder to shoulder,” continued Ruth. The steel eagles are powder-coated with a semi-holographic glimmer in “Interstellar” color.

Side by side eagles under 1923 cornerstone.

Smith, who sculpted eagles that he considers a modern interpretation of the originals, explained a detailed process. “I was given several historical photos and a video in which one of the surviving (uppermost) eagles was measured at several points. Norm produced large-scale prints of the historical photos. I was then able to transfer the measurements from the video onto the prints, and properly scale the sculpture as I built it.”

After determining the scale and proportions, Smith mainly worked from the bottom up, originating with the bases that house much of the lighting. He explained, “I built a tubular structure that acted as a framework in which to add and shape feathers, as well as a guidepost for proportions and symmetry. I made templates for the various types of feathers, cut them out, and shaped them. Throughout the sculpture, I left air gaps and spaces around the feathers for the internal lighting feature. The heads involved the most metal shaping. They are made from 18-gauge steel, which is the thinnest on the sculpture. They were made using an English wheel, hammer and dolly, and a shrinker/stretcher system.”

Transporting a nearly replicated eagle into the colonnade.

All great projects are built on challenges, and in this case, it was a tight timeline. “I put other work on hold to complete this project, but I could in no way sacrifice quality or detail for the sake of a deadline. It meant long hours in the shop, and my wife, Kayleigh, taking over a lot of my parenting and household responsibilities. I couldn’t have gotten through it without her,” said Smith.

Projects at the stadium materialize due to a history of close bonds. The trek from New Mexico was combined with visiting family members and friends. Ruth explained, “This ‘sneak peek’ tour was very much in the spirit of flying high with eagles, as we were grounded in the warmth of our visits. We stopped at Jake Smith’s cousins in Tulsa, Oklahoma and St. Louis, Missouri. I was able to visit my sister in Springfield, Ohio, and a dear friend at an assisted living facility in Princeton, New Jersey.”

Luba and Ruth met in fall 1997 at a String Cheese Incident concert in Gallup, New Mexico. Norm reminisced, “I drove our bus, Terrapin Trailways, and provided lighting special effects using oil projectors, similar to the early concerts in the 1960s. The folks that put on this event were unveiling a large sculpture of one of the late Jerry Garcia’s guitars, ‘Rosebud.’ This sculpture can be seen when traveling along I-40 at an outdoor sculpture garden. We have remained close brothers ever since, engaging on endless fun and creative projects.”

Deluxe Design is on a mission to design and create exceptional signs, awards, and screen-printed products through optimism, teamwork, and collaboration. Ever since 1986, the firm has been considered an industry leader that maintains solid relationships with organizations and individuals, which span local companies to international corporations such as Live Nation, AEG, Samsung, and Intel. They take pride in identifying a client’s needs and employing a collective organizational experience to facilitate plans for design, execution, and utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and technology to yield exquisite results.

Smith’s mission is to feed his passion, but not without feeding his family. “I’m completely addicted to making things with my hands, and this is what I have to do for a living,” he said. “There are causes that I am passionate about, and sometimes use my art to support it through donating proceeds.”

What can be considered a sculpture is debatable. Smith’s early career focused primarily on hand-built motorcycles, where many were featured internationally in magazines and on television. He also feels fortunate to be selected as one of six artists to create functional public art in Sartell, MN from remnants of a historic paper mill that succumbed to a fire. “I had a well-received series of five metal sugar skulls. I have also been showing a metal butterfly pierced with a two-foot safety pin that I absolutely love.” As for functional art, he creates artistic gates, handrails, and benches.

Unlike the two original eagles that vanished less than three decades after their installation in 1923, the replacements are here to grace and energize the next generations of concertgoers at the historic Stadium.

Forest Hills Festival Uniting Communities For A Generation

Michael Perlman on May 24, 2023

2019 Forest Hills Festival of the Arts on Austin St. Photo: Michael Perlman

By Michael Perlman | mperlman@queensledger.com

For over 20 years, the Forest Hills Festival has been a tradition that unites Forest Hills residents and visitors with local merchants and nearby businesses, offering nearly every type of service.

On June 11 from 10 AM to 6 PM, diverse international foods and high-quality merchandise including novelties will line Austin Street from 69th Road to 72nd Road, and “Restaurant Row” will once again become an outdoor performance venue.

This festival, which is among the most distinctive neighborly and family-friendly events citywide, is the creative vision of Leslie Brown, longtime president of the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce, whose mission is the 3 C’s: “Commerce, Community, Culture.” “Culture brings the community together and commerce makes the community thrive.” Chamber members consist of 125 local members.

“My goals are to support our community’s small businesses and promote Forest Hills by bringing as many visitors and residents together to enjoy shops, restaurants, and all businesses,” she said.

Not only is Brown the founder of the Forest Hills Festival, but Jazz Thursdays each summer. She reminisced, “The festival came about as a way to showcase Forest Hills businesses and allow its business owners and residents to come together at a fun family event.” Part of her vision was to showcase local talent. Throughout the festival’s history, performers included dance students, martial arts students, fencing students, young musicians from local music schools, local jazz singers, and even world-class performers on a large stage. “This year will be the 3rd annual Sandwich Eating Contest, sponsored by Stacked Sandwich Shop,” she said.

This is community at its finest. She said, “Many families and people plan the start of their summer activities by attending the festival. The rides, the local talent showcased at the beginning, and the entertainment that continues in the mid-afternoon is what everyone looks forward to. There is always something to discover and someone to meet.”

The business district began to take shape after Forest Hills’ founding in 1906, and Austin Street would soon be nicknamed, “The Village.” Even today residents and merchants share long relationships of community support, according to Brown. “Business owners will support a patron’s kids’ Little League team, or a customer will spread the word about a business they love. Mutual respect and connections still exist here, so we need to celebrate such communities, since AI and internet shopping lead us away from human contact,” she said.

Not only have a few new stores opened this year, adding to the community’s diverse offerings, but the owners are ethnically diverse. Year-round, Austin Street becomes a magnet for shoppers from the five boroughs and Long Island.

Nancy Valentin, owner of NV Jewelry, founded her business in June 2010 and participated in at least 10 festivals. She feels additionally proud being raised in Forest Hills. Her kiosk will offer earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings, and of course new jewelry creations. “No matter what circumstances or challenges women have endured in their lives, a piece of jewelry will empower them, and make them feel the very best,” she said.

Michelle Charlesworth of Eyewitness & Nancy Valentin of NV Jewelry.

Valentin embraces the sense of celebration that runs throughout the streets of the festival, as well as the rapport she builds with longtime and new clients. “Leslie Brown does such an amazing job selecting diverse vendors. She always cares about the needs of others, which truly shows,” she continued.

“The Forest Hills Festival is one event I look forward to all year long,” said Christopher Iavarone, owner of Tiger Schulmann’s Martial Arts at 73-25 Woodhaven Boulevard, which serves the community since 2009 and puts on a show every year. The students will take the stage and provide demonstrations.

Sensei Christopher Iavarone of Tiger Schulmann’s Martial Arts, Demonstration on Restaurant Row.

“It enables me to plug into the community and showcase kids who worked hard in their classes and give a platform to express themselves through martial arts. I choreograph the moves and the music. The community will have an ‘inside view of our school’ on a daily basis.” Kickboxing and jiu-jitsu are the true forms of the art, but by having different people perform, introduces a new dynamic each year. “When we put up a tent and have a huge tiger, it brings smiles to our community, and then we get to work with people one-on-one,” he continued.

Iavarone explained his mission. “Self-defense and physical conditioning are two most important aspects. We help kids who aren’t confident, but then are able to defend themselves from bullies. Adults also benefit greatly, as soon as they step through our door.” He considers his classes as a 3D activity. “It’s fun, teaches a life skill, and you get fit.”

The musical sensation, Yacht Lobsters, is sailing the waves and will newly take the grand stage on Restaurant Row. The seven-piece ensemble will engage a large audience at 3 PM, followed by a second set at 4:10 PM.

Yacht Rock is a genre that is a conglomeration of many artists, mostly from the 1970s and early 1980s. As a tribute band, the goal is typically to emulate their sounds. “For a tribute to be unique, it’s almost an oxymoron, but we take it pretty seriously. We go beyond copying music by taking songs that we heard a million times and love, and doing something unique,” explained musician David Mendelson of Yacht Lobsters, who anticipates performing and giving back to his birthplace, Forest Hills.

Singing sensation Yacht Lobsters. Photo: Arazelly Guevara

The character of the musicians also distinguishes them from other tribute bands, and Mendelsohn considers their harmonious teamwork a blessing. Afterall, vocal harmonies are a significant element of the genre. “We are trained musicians from NYC, who I feel are some of the best in the world,” he said.

Some staples of Yacht Rock are “Africa” by Toto and “You Make My Dreams Come True” by Hall & Oates. Their repertoire even reflects the sounds of Steely Dan, which bears Forest Hills roots. Yacht Lobsters is big on medleys, and therefore takes segments of classics and consolidates them along a theme, which may include some titles that may not qualify as Yacht Rock, but complements it. “The Magic Medley,” consisting of “Magic” by Olivia Newton-John and “Magic” by Pilot, and it may also allow the audience to hop on a “Magical Mystery Tour” by The Beatles.

Also original is how songs typically performed by high tenor males take on a new context through their female solo vocalist, Charly Kay, a master of blue-eyed soul. The band also takes pride in jamming and improvisation, varying from typical Yacht Rock.

Since the mid-2000s, Rysa Childress, owner of All Star Studios, made a mark on the Forest Hills Festival. She explained, “The kids love dancing for their very own community, and we hope it spreads joy to all. After the performance, our booth turns into one big dance party. You can stop by to get information about our programs and free trials, to just say hi, or to dance with us.”

All Star Studios team performing at their best, 2021. Photo: Rysa Childress

As a small business owner, she strives for a family atmosphere and giving back to the community through their art form is emphasized to all dance students. She explained, “Our Shining Star dance team does do competitions, but that is not our main focus. The teams do a multitude of performances to share their love of dance with the community and fundraise for those in need. Outside of their year-end recital, many team dancers perform for seniors in nursing homes, kids in programs at Queens Center mall, and have done an amazing job with fundraising events and shows for Autism Awareness organizations.” In their studio, she coordinated the PJammin’ Party to fundraise for American Childhood Cancer Association, donate time, gifts, or money to City Harvest, Forestdale Foster Care & Social Services, and From Our Hearts To Your Toes.

For a few years, Dream City, owned by Corrie Hu, has been a festival participant. Dream City is a children’s play and learn center that is on a mission to create a fun and safe learning environment, sparking curiosity while encouraging social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.

Corrie Hu, founder of Dream City, 2nd from left.

Hu opened prior to the pandemic in January 2020. She reminisced, “While we were only open for 7 weeks before NYC shut down, I was so touched and amazed at the support from our community, and that we were welcomed back as soon as it was safe to re-open. Dream City is a type of business that requires a high level of trust from parents to bring the most cherished people in their lives to our business, and I am forever grateful for their trust in us.”

Participant Stephanie Khan is a perfect example of a business that recently underwent expansion. Now the Stephanie Khan Medical Office is located at 110-78 Queens Boulevard. Many years ago, statistics revealed that there is a shortage in primary care physicians. Therefore, nurse practitioners were to fill in the gap of primary care. She wants fairgoers to be educated on what is a nurse practitioner and how they can help the health of their loved ones.

Khan explained, “Many illnesses and complications are manageable through medication and lifestyle choices. It is important to have strong communication and relationship with your healthcare provider, which is something I strive for. I also focus on shared decision-making, when it comes to treatment options. My goal is for people to feel empowered over their health and to empower future nurses and nurse practitioners to follow my lead in improving primary care.”

Chef François Danielo and fifth-generation breadmaker of La Boulangerie de François at 109-01 72nd Road, is a mainstay at the festival. He has participated in nearly all since opening in 2011, initiating an authentic bakery cafe experience in Forest Hills. He will always cherish the community’s response. “I will always remember the first time we made crepes outside for a 14th of July, French Bastille Day,” he said.

Francois Danielo of La Boulangerie, right, in September 2017. Photo: Michael Perlman

As patrons sit at a communal table at the café and observe the art of baking through a viewing window, fairgoers have observed the preparation of crepes, in addition to enjoying native pastries. When asked about his favorites, he selected the croissant, and as for more recent additions, Ispahan and Caramel Petit Gateau.

Danielo considers Forest Hills a small town that grants a great warm feeling. “Our bakery is like the town bakery, when patrons come and buy their bread and croissants.”

Twenty-four-year resident Christine Sheehan opened Dude’s Delicious Dog Treats last year. Her kiosk will offer homemade dog treats with quality ingredients. She aspires to grow the brand and business, while contributing to the health of dogs.

Dude’s Delicious Dog Treats table setup. Photo: Christine Sheeha

In response to last year’s festival, she said, “I was thrilled that we sold out, but more importantly with the great community response and most specifically our dog community. Many of our dog park buddies not only purchased items, but to sing the praises of our products to other dog owners. It really warmed my heart to see so much support and meet other dog parents and dogs.”

She founded her business stemming from a passion for dogs, baking, and the many lovely residents she met as a result of getting her dog, Dude. “I never thought that a dog would enrich our lives the way it has, but my husband and I can no longer think of life without him,” she said.

Sheehan will be in front of the new Pet Club that opened on May 14 at 71-24 Austin Street. “Our businesses can support each other by being a gathering area for dog owners,” she said.

Grand Marshals Announced for Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade

Alicia Venter on May 17, 2023

By Alicia Venter aventer@queensledger.com

*From Left: Mike Arcati, Joseph Connely, Mary Kehoe, Kevin Kehoe, Robert Schnell. Front: Anthony Sarro*

The grand marshals for the Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade were named on Friday at the American Legion Continental Post #1424. The parade, which will be on Sunday, May 28 beginning with an opening ceremony at 11 a.m., will be led by five notable members of the community who have each shown exemplary service in different ways. “This is a point where we take the opportunity to thank our community and veteran heroes,” said Mike Arcati, commander of the American Legion Continental Post #1424. Parade organizers are having their annual VIP Donors Kickoff at the West Side Tennis Club (1 Tennis Place) on Thursday, May 25 from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. This event allows us to honor past grand marshals and introduce this year’s Grand Marshals to the parade sponsors,” said Walter Sanchez, president of the Kiwanis Club of Forest Hills. The grand marshals are: Community Service Grand Marshal: Robert Schnell Veteran Grand Marshal of the Year: Anthony Sarro Of the Year: Joseph Conley Law Enforcement Honoree of the Year: Kevin Kehoe First Responder Grand Marshal of the Year: Mary Kehoe Anthony Sarro, who will be 94 in July, served in the Korean Conflict a leader of the explosive ordnance disposal team, and was selected as a veteran grand marshal. “I’m not egoistic about it, but I do consider it an honor and it feels good,” Sarro said in an interview with the Forest Hills Times. “You get a little change in perspective of yourself. You feel a little more proud of yourself — without being egotistical.” “If you don’t know what team leader was in the 1950s, those were the Seals before we had Seals,” Arcati said of Sarro. “The Seals teams didn’t start until the 1960s. What these people did was go underwater and diffuse bombs and torpedoes, one of the most dangerous jobs in the service.” Sarro recalled his favorite war story during his speech: when he found the wedding ring of the wife of a fellow service member after she dropped it in the ocean. “I found a mussel sold down here, and I flipped it aside. As the saints would have it, low and behold, there was the ring,” he said, adding that, “Other than that, we blew things up and made a lot of noise.” Sarro’s son, Anthony Sarro Jr., is very proud of his father, attributing who he is to his father, describing him as “an enabler of good things.” “He is a people person. He entertains, he cares, he is wise and is funny,” Sarro Jr. said. Robert Schnell, 61, is the community service grand marshal of the year, and is part of a running list of volunteer organizations. Deemed the mayor of Forest Hills, he is a Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus, first Vice President of Lions Club International and former president of the Men’s Club of Forest Hills. He is notably involved in numerous organizations devoted to the protection of military dogs. After reading a novel called “Top Dog,” Schnell realized the impact that dogs have had both in their service in the military and to the veterans. He volunteers with the Military Working Dog Heritage Museum, K-9 Hero Haven, Military Working Dog Team Support Association — which supports military K9s and their handlers in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard — Leashes of Valor and the US War Dogs Association. Schnell holds the nickname “Mr. Dog,” as his devotion to the protection of war dogs stands alongside him in the American Legion Continental Post #1424 with a wall he ensured would be erected which displays honorable military dogs with their handlers.

Robert Schnell, Mr.Dog, by his wall of war dogs.

Having a service dog drastically helps those leaving the service, drastically reducing veteran suicide, Schnell shared. “The alarming thing is that the war continues and rages on for veterans that are back with us,” Schnell said. Veterans are 1.5 times more likely to die by suicide than nonveteran adults, according to the American Psychological Association. According to the most recent Annual Report from the United States Department of Veteran Affairs in 2022, the average number of veteran suicides per day in 2022 was 16.8. “When you see a veteran, please say thank you for your service and ask them how they are doing,” Schnell said, “They may give you the conditional, ‘okay, I’m doing alright,’ but maybe they will open up to you.” Joseph Connely was selected as a grand marshal for his military service, which began when he was drafted to serve in the Vietnam War. He was selected to be part of the Army Security Agency, whose primary mission was to locate Viet Cong transmitters operating in the south. “I was 20 years old when I received top secret crypto clearance. People around me were 19 and 20 years old, and had top secret crypto clearance. We’d never thought of anything like this.” Connely served as Chairman of Community Board 2 until 2014. After 40 years of combined law service with the NYC Transit Police Department, NYC Corrections Department and the NYPD, Kevin Kehoe has been selected as the law enforcement grand marshal of the year. He is currently a lieutenant of investigations at the Queens District Attorney’s Office. A military family — including a father who served in the Korean conflict — gave Kehoe an immense value and appreciation for the military. Holding this position in the Memorial Day parade resonated with him on a personal note. “It’s probably the biggest honor in my life, being selected to represent the law enforcement community as a whole. Not just for New York City, but for New York State and for the country,” Kehoe said. Over 20 years of experience, Mary Kehoe will stand beside her husband as the first responder grand marshal of the year. She is currently a public health nurse as P.S. 101, starting her career as a cardiology nurse at Long Island Jewish Medical Center. Born in Ridgewood, Kehoe moved to Forest Hills at age seven. “To see the memorial day was always the greatest time. The people, the community, families, all out together. For me to be a grand marshal in this parade I’ve grown up with is absolutely unbelievable. I thank one and all for allowing me to do this. It’s very special to me.” Her father was one of four men who served in the military, and the American Legion Continental Post #1424 was always an important spot for her. “It was always a soft spot in my heart,” she said. Kehoe is among one of the people that helped save the legion when it almost closed in 2018. They have hosted four fundraisers to help support the legion.

Uniting Generations Through Memorials Around Forest Hills

Michael Perlman on May 15, 2023

By Michael Perlman | mperlman@queensledger.com

Throughout Forest Hills, a number of monuments, parks, buildings, and parade routes keep the memory of America’s bravest alive. May we never cease to honor those who dedicated their soul to our country.

On Flagpole Green, formerly Village Green in Forest Hills Gardens, stands an ornate Neo-Classical pink granite and green and gold bronze monument, which honors 102 residents and was dedicated in 1920. The WWI Soldiers & Sailors Memorial was designed by renowned American sculptor Adolph Alexander Weinman (1870 – 1952), who lived nearby at 236 Greenway South and operated a studio at 234 Greenway South.

The memorial 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 design represents “The Call to Overseas” above the names on the tablet, including Dr. Joseph MacDonald, Gerald MacDonald, Henry MacDonald, George C. Meyer who served as president of Cord Meyer, and David and Howard Springsteen of the community’s farming family, when Forest Hills was known as Whitepot. Since last summer, residents observed meticulous restoration work, resulting in the polishing of the bronze tablet, which developed a green patina, as far back as most residents can recall.

Midway Theatre Upon Completion in 1942.

The historic Art Moderne style Midway Theatre at 108-22 Queens Boulevard, with its accordion-like façade and vertical beacon, was designed in 1942 by America’s foremost theater architect, Thomas Lamb. Upon making an entrance, theatergoers once took pride in an illuminated Battle of Midway mural. When community residents picked up a copy of The Forest Hills-Kew Gardens Post on September 18, 1942, they came across an ad, which read, “The Midway Theatre has been so named and dedicated as a tribute to the gallant men of our armed forces, who achieved so brilliant a victory at Midway Island.” Patrons were ready for a single-screen theater, where they could enjoy films and attempt to escape the traumas of WWII.

Enter the small forested setting of Samuel Picker Square at 69th Avenue and Burns Street near Forest Hills Stadium and Chatwick Gardens. Situated alongside the fence in an often overlooked spot is a stone bearing an inscription: “This Sitting Area is Dedicated to the Memory of Samuel Picker; Outstanding American, Community Leader and Dedicated Legionnaire; 1921 – 1981; Forest Hills Post 630, The American Legion.” It then bears the names of past officials, Borough President Donald R. Manes and Councilman Arthur J. Katzman.

Samuel Picker Square stone dedication. Photo by Michael Perlman

Samuel J. Picker, a Renaissance man, wore several hats, mostly throughout the 1960s and 1970s, consistently fulfilling his humanitarian spirit. They included Queens County American Legion Commander, Governor of District 20-K Lions International, Queens Cancer Crusade committee member, and President of the National American Legion Press Association. He served as Grand Marshal of the American Legion County Parade in Ridgewood in June 1971, which began with exercises at the War Memorial on Myrtle Avenue and surpassed expectations with 15,000 guests. He also served as president of the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, which offered philanthropic gift guide dogs and rehab to qualified blind applicants, where masters and guide dogs were duly trained at the Foundation’s center in Smithtown.

Picker owned the longtime Continental Hardware at 102-01 Metropolitan Avenue. As of 1976, he was a Queens County Grand Jurors Association member, and in 1977, he became founder and first president of the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce. In 1978, Lieutenant Governor-Elect Mario Cuomo presented him with the Henry G. Wenzel Medal of the American Cancer Society at the Biltmore Hotel dinner dance.

The tour continues with Forest Hills’ earliest extant tributary site, Remsen Cemetery, which was landmarked in 1981. Situated on a park-like setting between Trotting Course Lane and Alderton Street, the cemetery contains tombstones dating from 1790 through 1819. Flanking a flagpole, two doughboys honor Forest Hills’ service in WWI.

Later addition of limestone tombstones at Remsen Cemetery with doughboys. Photo: Michael Perlman

In Colonial times, it was popular for families to have private cemeteries close to home. The Remsen family erected a homestead on their farm adjacent to the cemetery in 1699, which stood until 1925. Jeromus Remsen Sr. (1735 – 1790) fought in the French and Indian War. As colonel of the Kings and Queens County Militia in the Battle of Long Island, he commanded the 7th New York Regiment in the American Revolutionary War.

The Remsen Park Coalition’s 1981 plaque states, “Within this park lies the remains of Revolutionary War Veteran Colonel Jeromus Remsen. Buried in the confines of this site were his cousins Major Abraham Remsen, Captain Luke Remsen, Lieutenant Aurt Remsen and their families. The Remsen family was amongst the first settlers of this area, originally known as White Pot.” A 1925 survey revealed brownstone grave inscriptions of Jeromus, Anna, Jerome (two), Cornelius, Ann Elizabeth, Bridget, and Major Abraham Remsen. The Veterans Administration erected non-brownstone graves that memorialize Colonel Remsen, Maj. Abraham Remsen, and brothers Aurt and Garrett Remsen, who were also Revolutionary War officers. The vanishing of some brownstone tombstones remains a mystery.

Remsen Farmhouse. Courtesy of Michael Perlman

The Captain Gerald MacDonald Statue stands prominently in MacDonald Park as a bronze sculpture bearing homage to Gerald MacDonald (1882 – 1929), a Forest Hills resident and WWI veteran. He was an officer of engineers, who erected bridges and dug trenches. It was dedicated on May 27, 1934 by Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia, after American Legion Post 630 allocated $1,500 at the request of WWI 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. As for MacDonald Park, it was officially named on April 25, 1933.

WWI Captain Gerald MacDonald Statue. Photo by Michael Perlman

On May 28, 1933, the New York Times reported, “The ceremonies included a parade through Forest Hills by American Legion posts, Boy and Girl Scouts, and civic groups. Colonel F.W. Stopford of the U.S. Army, who was the principal speaker at the ceremonies, praised Mr. MacDonald’s war service as an officer of engineers at the battle of the Meuse-Argonne.” A rare MacDonald Memorial Games brass medal that represents Forest Hills and WWI history, was rediscovered a few years ago on eBay. It features Captain Gerald MacDonald.

Marching in the spirit of our bravest has been a unifying theme of the Forest Hills Memorial Day Parades. Forest Hills residents can trace an extensive route of historic parades. In 1922, red paper poppies were sold by a group of young ladies for 10 cents, and the proceeds benefited the veterans’ Mountain Camp. They hoped that everyone in Forest Hills would wear a poppy, which would pay tribute to wounded soldiers in the war. Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address was read, and the Forest Hills Choral Club led “My Country Tis’ of Thee.”

In June 1923, The Forest Hills Bulletin captured how a multi-generational community bonded and paid tribute: “On Memorial Day, the Forest Hills Post of the American Legion conducted services on the Green, in which they honored Rice Bassett, Whitney Bowles, Clarence O. Collins and Lewis Serlin from Forest Hills, who rendered the supreme sacrifice during the war. Commander Thomas B. Paton, Jr. was in charge.” A parade was led by a fifteen-piece Naval Reserve Band.

It continued, “During the services, an aeroplane circled over the Green, and Comrade John von Hofe dropped a wreath, to which was attached a message from President Harding. The wreath was placed on the memorial tablet and the message, calling upon the people for renewed consecration to ‘the finest sentiments of national love, devotion and loyalty’ was read. The speakers were Robert W. McCleary, Major, Coast Artillery Corps, and Hon. Robert W. Bonynge, ex-Congressman from Colorado, who both made stirring appeals for national patriotism. The Choral Club led the singing: Lead Kindly Light was sung by the post quartet, and Dr. Latshaw led in prayer.” A Memorial Day essay contest would engage the interest of neighborhood children, including those of Public School 3.

On May 31, 1938, The New York Times published, “In Forest Hills, a Memorial Day parade was headed by a detail from the Sixty-second Coast Artillery (Anti-Aircraft). The American Legion and other veteran organizations took part together with youth auxiliary units. The parade started at Austin St and Ascan Ave and proceeded to the Flagpole Green and thence to Jerry MacDonald Park, and to the Forest Hills Theatre, where exercises were held.”

The 2023 parade will begin on May 28 with an opening ceremony at 11 AM and the parade at 12 PM along Metropolitan Avenue. Now it is time to take a look back at American Legion Continental Post 1424 at 107-15 Metropolitan Avenue, which made it all possible. The American Legion was incorporated by Congress in 1919, and is known as the nation’s largest wartime veterans’ service organization. It maintains a mission to mentor youth and sponsor wholesome community programs, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to fellow service members and veterans.

At the American Legion’s Forest Hills post, a plaque commemorates past commanders. The earliest recorded is James P. Grimes in 1946, alongside names including Stanley J. Koerner in 1953, John Civita from 1968 to 1969, and Arthur L. Dunckelman from 1984 to 1987. Former Forest Hills resident Michael Albetta served as parade coordinator from 1978 to 1990, president and founder of the Remsen Park Coalition which helped restore and landmark Remsen Cemetery, and was coordinator of the “Colonel Remsen Memorial Encampment.”

Remsen Memorial Encampment. Courtesy of Michael Albetta

Sponsored by the American Legion Continental Post 1424 and the Remsen Park Coalition, the May 30, 1979 parade was predicted to be the largest of its kind countrywide, with hundreds of marchers and nearly 5,000 spectators. It culminated with ceremonies in commemoration of veterans at Remsen Cemetery, including Revolutionary War Colonel Jeromus Remsen.

The 1980 Forest Hills Memorial Day Festival marked an expansion to a two-day event. On May 25, over 200 Colonial troops participated in the “Colonel Remsen Memorial Encampment,” held at Greenfield Park bordering Union Turnpike. Attendees acquired a taste of Colonial life, complete with the era’s crafts. The next day, over 2,000 marchers proceeded along Metropolitan Avenue from the turnpike, which was the parade’s former starting point.

Ceremony Sparks Dialogue for Tea Garden’s Rebirth

Michael Perlman on May 8, 2023

Attendees in front of the historic gate bearing Forest Hills logo. Photo: Michael Perlman

By Michael Perlman | mperlman@queensledger.com

Behind an ornate gate on Greenway Terrace and under an over century-old Gothic archway-inspired tree canopy lies the Tea Garden, which opened in 1912 as part of the iconic Forest Hills Inn. Today, Jade Eatery & Lounge’s party room in Forest Hills Gardens leads to this historic yet long-forgotten Tudor-style retreat, awaiting further restoration and revitalization.

On May 7 at 4 PM, a traditional “Tea Time” gathering took center stage in the Tea Garden, where a very engaged assemblage of members of the New York Tea Society (NYTS) met local residents. They made friends while exploring the art of drinking tea, shared tea stories and site history, and envisioned the garden’s beautification and future capabilities.

Tea Garden circa 1912. Photo courtesy of Olmsted Archives.

“We want to bring our history back,” said Kumar, the owner of Jade Eatery, who treats patrons like an extended family and shared over an hour of quality time with ceremonial guests. “Everyone is very much excited, and I am so honored to be part of the Tea Garden. The tea society brought along great flavored tea that was nice and hot, and they gave us a great presentation.” Kumar plans to partner with the organization and serve a variety of carefully selected teas.

Tea is the second most consumed drink worldwide. NYTS, which operates out of a Forest Hills tea studio and holds gatherings on weekends and digitally taps into an international fanbase, is on a mission to “facilitate the gathering of tea enthusiasts to promote tastings, discussions and education about tea and tea culture.”

Roy Lamberty, founder and president of NYTS and a director of food and beverage of Marriott Hotels, served a Taiwanese High Mountain Oolong known as Dayuling. “It is a very floral and bright tea, perfect for a spring day. Meeting other Forest Hills neighbors and introducing a Chinese gongfu tea service is our passion at NYTS. If I could do it every day, I would, and I loved meeting everyone,” he said.

Roy Lamberty, New York Tea Society President. Photo by Michael Perlman

Authenticity conveys value. A gaiwan was used and small traditional three-sip cups. “High Mountain Oolong is a tea that holds all of its original nutrients that are within the semi-oxidized tea. It contains hints of chestnut flavor paired with a nutty aroma,” said Forest Hills resident David Edelman, a very active NYTS member since 2020. He 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.

Eyeing the future, Lamberty envisions Indian, English, and Chinese tea sessions coexisting, pending Kumar’s approval. “It would be filled with historical and mythological stories, which would amaze guests,” he said.

As for Edelman, he explained, “The NYTS would love to host future tea gatherings in the historic Tea Garden to introduce more people to tea culture, and experience the simple enjoyment of thoughtfully preparing and drinking tea with new friends.”

Edelman imagines spending an afternoon in the garden, ringing the tea bell to order cup after cup. “Ringing the bell helps one to connect with the neighborhood’s allure and hidden history. The Tea Garden is a little gem, hidden within the larger treasure of Forest Hills Gardens.”

He overheard commentary from attendees who discussed a need for local routine historical walking tours. “I could visualize the Tea Garden being the meeting place for such events, as well as a community space to recreate and celebrate local history. One can easily envision music, magic, theater, dance, all within this space.”

The tea gathering continued along the path of restoration, since on March 31, preservationists were first to witness the delivery of a highly stylized “Ring For Tea” stand, after the original vanished approximately 75 years ago. Attendees also rang its circa 1890s bell and drank tea. The replication was made possible through tours and puzzle sales by this columnist, in partnership with volunteer civil engineer Bea Hunt, Flushing Iron Weld and Noble Signs.

The Tea Garden was designed by Forest Hills Gardens principal architect Grosvenor Atterbury and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. It once accommodated Forest Hills Inn guests and their friends with afternoon teas, dinner dances, plays by The Gardens Players, wedding receptions, dog shows, flower shows and July 4th events. However, when the Forest Hills Inn underwent conversion into a residence in 1968, the Tea Garden gradually became neglected.

Tea Garden circa 1912. Photo courtesy of Olmsted Archives.

The July 12, 1924 edition of The Forest Hills Bulletin read, “The Tea Garden of the Forest Hills Inn is a veritable fairyland, when lighted with Japanese lanterns, with the trickling fountain heard in the background, and a new moon shining overhead. There is no more delightful place in Greater New York for one to spend the dinner hour.” Every evening during the warmer months between 6:30 and 9 PM, a delectable dinner was served, to the music of the Inn Trio, such as Dvorak’s “Humoresque,” Nevin’s “A Day in Venice,” Godard’s “Canzonetta,” and Albeniz’s “A Night In Seville.”

Fast-forwarding nearly 100 years, Alexandra Gecin of Forest Hills first noticed the serenity and relaxation upon stepping into the Tea Garden. She explained, “Imagining the weddings, celebrations and afternoon teas that took place many years ago, as well as a working central fountain, cascading fountain and turtle pond, and thriving plants that existed, only added to its ‘secret garden’ feel. The icing on the cake, and hopefully the start of a fruitful restoration, was Perlman’s replication of the Ring For Tea stand, with a Gardens blue-green paint and a bell from Ukraine.”

NY Tea Society & residents join Kumar at the replicated Ring For Tea stand. Photo courtesy of Jade staff

Gecin also had no idea that a tea society existed in Forest Hills, and considered it a “lovely surprise.” “The second surprise was that the head of the society actually planned a tea ceremony for us and we could chat about it,” she continued.

She shared her vision for the Tea Garden’s future. “In addition to celebrations in a restored Tea Garden, I envision a full British tea service, with finger sandwiches and pastries in the warmer months, and a hot chocolate/s’mores/fondue chalet-type experience in colder months. The fountain could become a fire pit in the winter to gather around. It would also be landscaped with shade-loving perennials and evergreens, to have even more of that garden feel year-round.”

Babylon resident Alexander Nguyen was unaware of how many people were interested in not only tea, but the whole culture and history surrounding tea. “As I grew up, I always thought that tea was just a drink for adults, usually in the morning and during dinner, since it was sweet, sugary, and full of color. Now that I have grown up and experienced the culture of the New York Tea Society, I learned that tea is often more than just a drink, but a centerpiece of social events between friends, and strangers alike, snacking on cookies, or talking about tea.”

Tea Garden in 1950s with famed interior designer Dorothy Draper’s influence. Photo: Michael Perlman Postcard Collection

Nguyen stepped into this columnist’s exhibition at Jade’s gallery, which features restored vintage prints of the Tea Garden. “It made me wonder what events occurred in the garden, what kind of life it had, and what kind of stories could be told from its weathered walls and surface patina,” he said.

Nguyen felt that the Ring For Tea stand’s replication was a delight, adding to a surreal feeling of standing in a place of history upon viewing the vintage photos, which featured the original tea stand.

He explained his vision. “The Tea Garden could be restored to its prime, as a piece of serenity amidst a busy and bustling city. If the fountain were to be restored, then the garden would be like something out of a fairytale; a secluded sanctuary covered by trees and bushes, with the fountain at the center of it all.”

“The Tea Garden is beautiful, even in its semi-abandoned state, and hearing stories about its wedding receptions and the social and communal events at the Forest Hills Inn was very touching,” said Jamaica resident Aayesha Ayub, who found the area to be full of hope for a new life. “It was nice to see people from all walks of life and ages gather to experience a common love and interest. Having a space for the community to connect is my hope, and I would love to plant additional forestry to help create a more beautiful space that people can enjoy once again.”

Children at the cascading fountain & turtle pond circa 1912. Photo courtesy of Olmsted Archives.

The peaceful and inviting Tea Garden and all it represents, is inspiring for its historical value for the community, according to Rosa M. Lazon of Forest Hills. “It could be the perfect space for community gatherings and cultural events, including tea ceremonies and educational artistic events,” she said.

Lazon described her experience as unique and educational, as the members of the tea society are very passionate about sharing their knowledge of tea ceremonies. “I want to express my great appreciation for what all supporters are doing to restore and preserve the Tea Garden,” she continued.

To support the Tea Garden initiative or volunteer, join the Facebook group. Additionally, to become an active member of the New York Tea Society and learn more, visit their page.

Remembering Legends Jerry Springer & Harry Belafonte

Michael Perlman on May 4, 2023

Jerry Springer, FHHS Class of 1961 yearbook portrait. Photo courtesy of Herb Kunkes

By Michael Perlman | mperlman@queensledger.com

Each night there will be two brighter stars in the sky in memory of local icons who achieved international recognition. One is Jerry Springer, who was born Gerald Norman Springer in 1944 and passed away on April 27. Another is Harry Belafonte, who was born Harold George Bellanfanti Jr. in 1927 and passed away on April 25.

Jerry Springer, a native of London, who was born in an underground railway station turned bomb shelter, once resided at the Roger Williams at 83-33 Austin Street in Kew Gardens and began 1^st grade at Public School 99. He also lived in Park City at 97-07 63^rd Road, and was a 1961 Forest Hills High School graduate who pursued drama. In a 2011 clip for PIX 11, where he grew up watching the Yankees from 1 PM to 7:30 PM, he said, “Every single birthday, we come back to New York” and “I have a lot of difficulty giving up my roots. This is my blood living here. I love it and never stopped loving New York.”

In this columnist’s book, “Legendary Locals of Forest Hills and Rego Park,” Springer wrote the foreword, which read: “Forest Hills – It was an idyllic place to grow up. The 1950s: A sense of neighborhood and the American Dream. Friends lived in the same apartment building or on the same block. We went to school together, played in the schoolyard together, and rooted for the same teams together. We were all going to college, and my first job was working as a ball boy at the West Side Tennis Club for the U.S. Tennis Championships. What was not to like? And Simon and Garfunkel were a year ahead of me at Forest Hills High School.”

Jerry Springer’s 5th grade class, PS 99, 1954, Springer in 4th row, 2nd from right. Photo courtesy of Carol Feigl Paplin.

His father, Richard Springer, was the owner of a local shoe shop, whereas his mother, Margot nee Kallmann worked as a bank clerk. Due to the Holocaust, his Jewish parents fled Landsberg an der Warthe in Prussia and emigrated to London. However, most of his relatives passed away as a result.

Springer pursued political science at Tulane University and earned a law degree at Northwestern University. He was an aide for Robert F. Kennedy’s 1968 presidential campaign. As the 56th mayor of Cincinnati, Ohio at age 33 in 1977, he was considered one of the country’s youngest. Pursuing an alternate career path, he became a news anchor and managing editor of NBC in Cincinnati.

In 1991, he began achieving prominence as a television personality on his daily talk show, “The Jerry Springer Show,” which originated with a politically-based format. That was followed by being rebranded in 1994. It featured everyday people on a stage, battling out disputes among family and significant others, which focused on controversial topics. It ran through 2018, holding a record for a longest running talk show, with nearly 5,000 episodes. From 2015 through 2022, he was also the face behind “The Jerry Springer Podcast.”

Springer’s presence on TV and in films was diverse, as he starred in the film “Citizen Verdict,” hosted “Springer on the Radio,” “America’s Got Talent,” “The Price Is Right Live!” in Vancouver’s Boulevard Casino and “Baggage and Tabloid.” His comedic skills were prevalent when he starred as Billy Flynn in the musical, “Chicago.”

Springer was the recipient of various accolades, which included the Laurence Olivier Award for the British musical “Jerry Springer: The Opera,” influenced by his diverse life and talk show. He was also an Emmy Award-winning newscaster and country artist. In 1995, he released an album titled “Dr. Talk.” He also sang Elvis five years ago on “The Ray D’Arcy Show.”

Springer also achieved success as a lawyer with the firm Grinker, Sudman & Springer and was the host of “Judge Jerry,” airing from 2019 to 2022.

Upon Springer’s death in Chicago, Illinois, BBC referenced him as televising “fringes of (American) society to a global audience” and commended him as “an era-defining television host.”

Harry Belafonte, a Harlem native, is being remembered as a talented singer, composer, social activist and actor who broke racial barriers. In fact, Belafonte was a trailblazer as one of the first black singers to sell a million records and have an immense fan base on film. He popularized calypso music with international audiences as of the 1950s and also resided in East Elmhurst at that time. As of 1957, Belafonte had four albums released under RCA Victor, and “Calypso” sold one million copies.

Harry Belafonte singing in 1954. Photo courtesy of Library of Congress.

In an interview with the Long Island Star-Journal in April 1957, he explained that as a child, he owned no records and not even a radio, as a result of his family living in poverty. He said, “We were hungry as kids. We didn’t even have our own hand-me-downs to wear. My father’s clothes were strictly his work clothes as a tailor.”

This charismatic balladeer and folk singer appeared on August 25 to August 27, 1961 at the Forest Hills Music Festival at the iconic Forest Hills Stadium, and had a return engagement on July 31 to August 2, 1964 with singer and songwriter Miriam Makeba. On July 31, he exhibited perfect pitch with flawless tempo, and his repertoire included “Day-O” (The Banana Boat Song), “Every Night When The Sun Goes Down,” “Glory Manager” and “John Henry.” With a harmonious expression, he performed “Jamaica Farewell during the second half of the program. Long Island Star-Journal readers picked up Walter Kaner’s popular column that August and read, “Harry Belafonte pocketed $75,000 for his three shows at the Forest Hills Stadium last weekend. Some 35,000 show-goers shelled out $175,000 to witness his performances.”

Belafonte sang soulful renditions of Jewish classics such as “Hava Nagila” and “Erev Shel Shoshanim” (Evening of Roses). These songs are staples at weddings and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs.

1964 Forest Hills Music Festival poster featuring Harry Belafonte. Photo courtesy of Michael Perlman.

As a humanitarian and performer, he recorded a double album in April 1959, “Belafonte at Carnegie Hall,” which benefited The New Lincoln School and Wiltwyck School.

Boulevard Tavern, later renamed The Boulevard was the go-to entertainment venue and social establishment at 94-05 Queens Boulevard in Rego Park from the 1930s to the late 1960s. It attracted the likes of Belafonte, as well as other big names such as Tony Bennett, Jerry Vale, Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme, Connie Haines, and Peggy Lee.

Belafonte starred in films including “Carmen Jones” (1954), “Island in the Sun,” (1957) which was screened at the Midway Theatre, and “Odds Against Tomorrow” (1959). In 1954, he was a Tony Award recipient after starring in John Murray Anderson’s “Almanac.” He also achieved a record as the first black performer to receive an Emmy for “Tonight with Harry Belafonte,” a television special.

As a Civil Rights activist, Belafonte participated in marches and helped coordinate them. He developed a close relationship in 1956 with Martin Luther King Jr. and collaborated, and was joined by other entertainers and elected officials. He made Civil Rights his priority in the early 1960s and produced a benefit concert in response to the Montgomery, Alabama bus boycott that helped King become nationally recognized. He fundraised to bail King among other protestors out of jail and helped coordinate Washington’s Freedom March. In Belafonte’s 2011 memoir, “My Song,” he wrote, “I was having almost daily talks with Martin” and “I realized that the movement was more important than anything else.”

Civil Rights March on Washington, DC, Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Charlton Heston, 1963 ay Lincoln Memorial. Photo by Rowland Scherma.

In 1985, Belafonte was instrumental in consolidating musicians for the iconic song, USA for Africa’s “We Are The World,” which featured a supergroup of 46 vocalists.

Belafonte was a real estate investor who took much pleasure in owning the Old Farm estate in Chatham, New York, a 21-room apartment at 300 West End Avenue and two condos in the Central Savings Bank Building, situated at 2100 Broadway.

His mighty words include, “I am an activist who happened to be an artist” and “Each and every one of you has the power, the will and the capacity to make a difference in the world in which you live in.” The Harry Belafonte 115^th Street Library, a historic McKim, Mead & White building in Harlem, casts a spirit in his memory.

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