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Astoria Welfare Society Honors Officer Gabriel Tobar for Outstanding Community Service

BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Flushing Airport Redevelopment to Deliver Thousands of New Homes

BQE Admin on August 20, 2025

Courtesy  S9 Architecture

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

La Cevicheria by de Mole debuts new summer cocktails

BQE Admin on August 15, 2025

La Ceviche by De Mole is turning up the summer in Astoria with a bright, beachy lineup of cocktails—and a marquee hire behind the bar. The neighborhood favorite, known for its vibrant Peruvian-Mexican flavors and relaxed, convivial vibe, is debuting four new warm‑weather sippers: La Toronjita, Coconita, Estrellita, and a Passionfruit Caipirinha.

The timing couldn’t be better: weekday Happy Hour runs a generous 1–8 p.m., and weekends bring a two‑hour bottomless brunch. Even better, the restaurant’s tapas, family‑style format invites lingering, mixing, and sharing—drinks included—for just $56 per person.

Watch the new cocktails in action by local Astoria food influencer, John Sanchez, on Instagram.

At the center of this refresh is Eugenio, La Ceviche by De Mole’s newly minted bartender, who arrives with serious pedigree: over 25 years at the famed Gotham in Manhattan. His move to Astoria is a win for cocktail lovers borough‑wide. Eugenio brings hospitality that’s confident yet unpretentious, coupled with a craftsman’s touch for balance and presentation. “I want guests to taste the seasons—citrus at its peak, herbs when they’re fragrant, and spirits that tell a story,” he says, setting the tone for a bar program that’s both polished and playful.

La Toronjita is a crisp, grapefruit‑forward cooler that lands like a sea breeze—bright, lightly bitter, and refreshing with a zesty salted rim that begs for another sip. Coconita leans lush and tropical, pairing coconut and lime with a whisper of vanilla for a silky, sun‑on‑skin finish. Estrellita—“little star”—twinkles with starfruit and pineapple, rounded by agave and a squeeze of lemon for a clean, high‑tone sparkle. And the Passionfruit Caipirinha riffs on Brazil’s classic with fragrant passionfruit pulp, muddled lime, and cachaça over crushed ice, the kind of golden, tangy cocktail that turns a table into a mini‑vacation.

Food remains the heartbeat here, with a menu designed for sharing and discovery. Think bracing, lime‑kissed ceviches that snap with freshness; crispy calamari and yuca that deliver satisfying crunch; and warm tortillas ferrying grilled seafood, citrus, and herbs. The family‑style, tapas approach encourages guests to try everything—and the mix‑and‑match drinks format means each course can meet its perfect cocktail partner. Whether you’re chasing citrus with La Toronjita or letting Coconita mellow the heat, every pairing feels intentional.

For planners (and spontaneous friends who become planners by 4 p.m.), the value is clear. Weekday Happy Hour from 1–8 p.m. stretches well past office hours, ideal for late lunches, early dinners, or that sweet in‑between. On weekends, the two‑hour bottomless brunch transforms the day into a leisurely feast: tapas passed around the table, cocktails refreshed with a smile, and the whole experience—meals served tapas family‑style plus mix‑and‑match drinks—priced at just $56 per person. With Eugenio steering the bar and summer in full swing, La Ceviche by De Mole isn’t just pouring drinks; it’s pouring a mood. Grab your friends, bring your appetite, and let the afternoon drift into evening—Astoria style.

TikTok Creators Bring Budget-Friendly Cooking to a New Generation

BQE Admin on August 15, 2025

With food prices remaining a top concern for many households, a growing wave of home cooks on social media is showing audiences how to prepare affordable, simple, and satisfying meals.

Easy, recession-free recipes

One of the most popular voices in this space is Matthew Bounds, known online as Your Barefoot Neighbor. In a recent TikTok video, he declared, “Every day in August, we’re making an easy, shortcut recipe for back-to-school season. The goal is just to get dinner on the table.”

Bounds has built an audience of more than four million followers across TikTok and Instagram and has become a bestselling cookbook author, with his latest release titled Keep It Simple, Y’all. His recipes favor convenience over extravagance—think chicken casserole made with cream of celery soup and dehydrated gravy mix, reminiscent of the quick, comforting meals found in 1980s magazines. Each video delivers a complete recipe in under 90 seconds, making them ideal for TikTok’s fast-paced format.

But his work goes far beyond cooking tips. This summer, Bounds and his community joined forces with creator V Spehar of Under the Desk News to raise approximately $80,000 for Toups’ Family Meal, a New Orleans nonprofit that provides meals to food-insecure families, particularly children during school breaks. He also organized a food drive for the Knox Pride Food Pantry System, resulting in 15,000 packages of food being donated—enough to supply their pantry and four others in the area within just 48 hours.

Bounds attributes the success of these efforts to a desire for meaningful action. “People are looking for positivity. Many want to help but aren’t sure where to start. When I point them toward a specific need, they’re eager to step in,” he said.

Cooking Lessons from the Past

Another influential figure in the affordable cooking movement is Kiki Ruff, widely recognized as the “Recession Recipes Lady.” Ruff’s inspiration comes from history—she studies cookbooks from the Great Depression, wartime rationing periods, and previous economic downturns. “I figured I’d learn from the pros,” she explained. “If it worked during World War II rationing, I can adapt it for today’s economy.”

Her recipes are designed to be flexible. For example, a homemade hamburger helper can be made with beef, or swapped for chickpeas, mushrooms, or tofu to cut costs. If tomato sauce isn’t on hand, she encourages substitutions such as tomato paste, salsa, pasta sauce, or even ketchup.

Ruff has chosen not to monetize her content, emphasizing that she does not want to profit from an audience facing financial hardship. Her videos resonate with a diverse group—single parents, young adults aging out of foster care, and individuals coping with job loss.

She ends every video with a personal sign-off: “Please remember to eat, and also I love you.” The phrase originated from a note a friend gave her during a difficult time, a reminder to prioritize self-care. “It meant so much to me then, and now I see how meaningful it is for viewers who might not hear those words anywhere else,” she said.

From nostalgic casseroles to wartime-inspired substitutions, creators like Bounds and Ruff are doing more than sharing recipes—they’re building communities of support, offering both practical help and encouragement during challenging times.

Workers at Gowanus Climbing Gym Rally for Health and Safety Committee

BQE Admin on July 17, 2025

By Ruby Kollar

Earlier last week, workers at a climbing gym in Gowanus organized an event to promote a health and safety committee for their union. Staff from multiple locations, union workers and climbers wore red to show their support for the union.

Movement Gym workers at LIC and Gowanus locations have been unionized for almost a year — and now, they are fighting for a health and safety committee. Their unionization was initially sparked by the buyout of these locations by Movement. Two years ago, The Cliffs, a smaller franchise of climbing gyms, operated gyms in LIC, Gowanus, Harlem, Valhalla and one in Callowhill, Philadelphia. In late 2023 all five gyms were bought out and rebranded as Movement Gyms. This sudden change in management caused concern among the gym workers and talk of unionization grew.

The LIC gym unionized in early 2024, followed by the Gowanus location later that year. But there is still work to be done, union representatives noted. Michael Quiles, a coach at Movement LIC for three years, has experienced and worked through the buyout and union organization first hand. “We’re proposing a health and safety committee,” he said, “that can bring up certain issues in the gym in regards to air quality, rope fraying, things of that nature.” The union wants to address these issues with arbitration, while Movement rejects ideas for a third party opinion on problems the gyms may face. (The company did not respond to a request for comment.)

In the northeast, Movement gyms see threats to health and safety in regards to cleanliness and equipment constantly, workers allege. At the Gowanus event, speakers outlined their concerns: mold on the staffroom’s ceiling, which poses a threat to respiratory health. Frayed ropes, which threaten the safety of climbers and staff. And most shockingly, water damage that has caused mushrooms to grow in some parts of the gym. 

“If I want to have a safe experience and a good experience climbing,” said Serenity Scattoni, who has climbed at Movement for the past three years, “I know that I need the workers and the facility to also mirror that and be safe and fair.”

Councilwoman Hanif joined union members at Movement Gowanus, a local climbing gym, as they called for better oversight. Photos via Instagram.

Movement Union workers want to build a safer community not only for themselves but the climbing community that occupy these gyms. City Councilwoman Shahana Hanif made an appearance at the event and demonstrated her support and admiration for the union. She expressed concern about the climbing ropes, equipment failure and lack of accountability of Movement management. She ended with a quick remark directed towards management: “They have been stalling, and it seems like they know how unions bust,” said Hanif, “but we know how to organize.” 

LIC and Gowanus are not alone in their campaign. Other Movement locations across the country have also unionized over the course of the past couple of years. Movement Crystal City in Virginia became the first climbing gym in the nation to unionize back in 2022. The gym was originally called Earth Treks and opened in 1997, before being acquired by Movement. When employees experienced the effects of the new corporate culture, including what they described as poor communication, they unionized. Then, two gyms in Chicago, who were also bought out by Movement, unionized after instructors were terminated with one week notice and little to no explanation. 

Competitors closer to home are following suit: After facing issues with pay and say in gym decisions, Vital locations in Williamsburg and Manhattan unionized in 2023. In May of this year, workers at Metrorock Bushwick petitioned the National Labor Rights Board for a union election. 

As Movement gyms grow, so does the climbing community. Today, climbing has become more mainstream, particularly since it became an olympic sport. And the climbing community is like no other in terms of support and togetherness. Whether you’re a new climber or an experienced one, the community is accepting and encouraging, which is why in many cases unions have support from customers and fellow climbers. 

“Climbing is a community, that’s what it’s all about, it’s what it’s always been about,” said Alexa Zielinski, a routesetter, who designs climbing routes at Movement Gowanus, during last week’s event. “It’s not about profit. It’s not about private equity. It’s all the people that you see around you right now, so thank you all for being here.”

Employees have allegedly found mold and even mushrooms in the staff room.

 

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

BQE Admin on May 29, 2025

 Taylor Dennis

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zellnor Myrie, the Brooklyn-Born Reformer Running to Rebuild NYC

BQE Admin on May 15, 2025

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Zellnor Myrie still rides the subway—not as a campaign prop, but because it’s how he’s always gotten around. One recent evening, as he waited on a platform, a fellow rider recognized him. There were no cameras, no staffers, just a brief exchange and a quiet thank-you. “That’s the kind of interaction that keeps me grounded,” Myrie says. Now a State Senator and one of New York City’s leading mayoral candidates, Myrie is running on a promise to rebuild a city that feels increasingly out of reach for working families. His campaign is rooted in the everyday experiences of New Yorkers — shaped by the same commutes, rent hikes, and after-school pickups — and driven by bold, progressive solutions to make the city more affordable, more just, and more livable for all.

Born and raised in a rent-regulated apartment in Brooklyn to Costa Rican immigrant parents, Myrie is hoping to ride a wave of progressive momentum from Albany to City Hall. The 37-year-old state senator, a Fordham graduate and product of New York City’s public schools and after-school programs, says his lived experience gives him a clear-eyed perspective on the city’s most urgent crisis: affordability.

“I’m living the struggle,” Myrie told the Queens Ledger during a recent roundtable interview. “I have student loans like everyone else. I take the train. I know what it’s like to watch friends leave this city because they can’t afford to stay.”

Myrie, first elected to the State Senate in 2018, quickly made a name for himself as a forceful advocate for tenant protections, criminal justice reform, and gun safety. In his first legislative session, he helped pass a suite of landmark reforms, from the Reproductive Health Act to the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Since then, he’s sponsored more than 60 bills that have become law, earning him praise from progressive groups and legislative colleagues alike.

Now, he’s turning that track record into a campaign for mayor — anchored by a sweeping housing proposal he calls Rebuild NYC, which aims to deliver one million new homes over the next decade.

“I am excited about this opportunity to lead the city that my parents came to 50 years ago, but that opportunity that they came for that’s slipping away for a lot of us,” Myrie said. “I want to change all of those things, and I believe that I have the record, and I’m the right person to do that at this moment.”

Under Rebuild NYC, Myrie would rezone Midtown to allow for 85,000 mixed-income units and use city tools like mandatory inclusionary housing to build and preserve 1 million homes — 700,000 new, 300,000 preserved. The plan also secures permanent revenue for the city’s public housing authority, NYCHA, and would phase out councilmember veto power over land-use projects, a long-debated political bottleneck to construction.

His passion for public service began early. “The best mayor we’ve had was La Guardia — someone who spoke his mind and fought for all New Yorkers,” he said. Myrie’s journey started with community board meetings and escalated through law school, a stint in the City Council, and finally the State Senate. 

He often thinks back to his own childhood — how a public school education, after-school programs, and a stable apartment gave him a foundation. He wants every child in New York to have that same chance. His universal after-school proposal — extending care from 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. — would cost billions, but Myrie argues the tax revenue from families staying in the city would offset the price.

“As I mentioned, I’m the product of an after-school program, but you shouldn’t have to be in a neighborhood where you have a PTA that can afford this programming to be able to benefit from that,” Myrie said. “Every kid should have access to it, and it should be high quality. We cannot be a city where you cannot afford to raise a kid here.”

On public safety, Myrie walks a fine line. He proposes a stronger presence in subways, but favors reallocating officers to platforms and train cars, backed by 150 police-clinician teams. His approach to crime is deeply shaped by personal experience, including a mass shooting at a Brooklyn parade last year. He wrote the nation’s first law holding gun manufacturers accountable and was named “Gun Sense Lawmaker of the Year” by Everytown for Gun Safety in 2021.

Myrie is clear-eyed about the fiscal challenges the city faces. He opposes raising property taxes unless absolutely necessary, and says the city has already missed its window to bolster reserves before federal cuts hit. But he’s firm on protecting the city’s social infrastructure: after-school care, summer youth jobs, and safe housing.

Myrie is running against seasoned insiders and political veterans but makes the case that he brings a different kind of experience — one rooted not in decades of power but in firsthand knowledge of what it takes to stay in the city.

“The same folks responsible for our current problems shouldn’t be the ones trusted to fix them,” he says. “We need to do big things again. If we could build the Empire State Building in 13 months, we can build a city people can afford to live in.”

Zellnor Myrie envisions a transformed New York City after four years under his leadership. His promise is clear: a city where every child has access to high-quality after-school programs, where every young person who seeks a summer job can find one, where people feel safe on the street and subway and where the cost of living is lower, making it more affordable for families to stay. With a focus on safety, fairness, and opportunity, Myrie’s vision is one of inclusivity and resilience, where the city’s social infrastructure is robust and accessible for all. He believes that through bold, progressive actions, New York can once again be a place where working families thrive, and where the opportunities his parents came to the city for are restored and expanded for future generations.

New York Becomes Largest State to Ban Smartphones in Schools

BQE Admin on May 15, 2025

Courtesy Officer of Governor Kathy Hochul

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

New York will become the largest state in the nation to impose sweeping, bell-to-bell restrictions on smartphone use in K-12 schools under a new policy announced by Governor Kathy Hochul, marking a landmark move aimed at improving student mental health and reducing classroom distractions.

The statewide mandate, secured as part of the recently passed Fiscal Year 2026 state budget, requires all public, charter, and BOCES schools to restrict unsanctioned use of internet-enabled personal devices during the entire school day, including lunch and study hall periods. The policy goes into effect for the 2025-2026 academic year and is backed by a $13.5 million allocation to help schools implement storage solutions for student devices.

“New York was the first state to target addictive social media feeds — and now we’re the largest state to restrict smartphones in schools throughout the entire school day.” Governor Hochul said. “I know our young people succeed when they’re learning and growing, not clicking and scrolling — and that’s why New York continues to lead the nation on protecting our kids in the digital age.”

The policy mandates that parents still be provided with a way to contact their children during the school day, a move aimed at alleviating safety concerns. Schools will have the flexibility to determine how smartphones are stored, with local implementation plans required to be developed in consultation with teachers, parents, and students. The measure also prohibits policies that could lead to inequitable discipline outcomes.

“This isn’t about being anti-phone or anti-technology — it’s about being pro-childhood,” New York State United Teachers President Melinda Person said. “We’re giving students seven hours a day free from distractions so they can focus on learning, access their creativity, and make real human connections. Tackling social media and technology use as a public health issue will take continued partnership, education, and courage — and New York is ready to lead the way.”

This initiative aligns with the mission of Phone Free New York, a movement founded by Raj Goyle that advocates for protecting children from the harmful effects of smartphones and social media. Goyle emphasizes that while digital technology has transformed modern life, its unchecked use — especially among teens — has fueled a crisis in mental health, exacerbated by the pandemic. The evidence, he notes, increasingly supports that smartphones and social media are major contributors to declining youth well-being.

Courtesy Officer of Governor Kathy Hochul

New York now joins a growing list of at least nine other states that have implemented some form of school-based phone restrictions, signaling a bipartisan recognition of the issue. As Goyle highlights, this movement is not about rejecting technology outright but about ensuring that students have the freedom to learn, connect, and grow in healthier, more focused educational environments.

Hochul’s announcement follows a months-long statewide listening tour that brought together educators, students, parents, and public safety officials to assess the impact of smartphones in schools. The resulting report, More Learning, Less Scrolling: Creating Distraction-Free Schools, concluded that unrestricted access to personal devices hampers academic performance, impedes creativity, and contributes to rising mental health issues among youth.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, up to 95% of teens use social media, with more than a third reporting near-constant use. The report highlights a correlation between high social media usage and increased risks of anxiety, depression, poor sleep, and cyberbullying — concerns echoed by educators and mental health professionals across the state.

Nearly 75% of teachers surveyed in a 2023 Pew Research Center poll identified cell phone distractions as a major issue in their classrooms. Teachers and administrators who participated in the listening sessions cited increased student engagement and decreased behavioral incidents in schools that had already adopted phone-free policies.

“Smartphones are designed to be addictive in a way that makes it harder for kids to focus and learn,” Mothers Against Media Addiction Founder and Executive Director Julie Scelfo said. “As parents, we are grateful to Governor Hochul and the lawmakers who led this effort to support engaged, distraction-free learning in our schools, making New York a model for the rest of the nation. MAMA volunteers are energized by this victory — five states down, and only 45 more to go.”

In addition to the restrictions, students with documented needs — including medical conditions, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), or translation services — will be granted exceptions under the policy. Students will also continue to use school-issued devices such as laptops and tablets for educational purposes.

Courtesy Freepik

The new statewide standard builds on Hochul’s broader youth mental health agenda. In 2024, she signed the first-in-the-nation “Safe for Kids Act,” which requires parental consent for minors to access algorithm-driven social media feeds, and the New York Child Data Protection Act, prohibiting the sale of personal data from users under 18 without explicit permission.

The governor has also overseen a $1 billion statewide investment in mental health, including $20 million in startup grants for school-based mental health clinics. Since February 2024, 71 new clinic satellites have opened, with 40 located in high-needs districts, expanding the state’s network of over 1,100 school-based mental health sites.

Borough President Richards Outlines Bold Plans in Annual Address

BQE Admin on May 1, 2025

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

In his third annual State of the Borough address, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. delivered an ambitious and determined vision for the future of the borough. Speaking before a full house at the Queens Theatre on April 25, Richards reviewed his administration’s progress over the past year, emphasizing key initiatives in education, healthcare, economic development, social services, and environmental sustainability.

The address kicked off with a heartfelt performance of the Star Spangled Banner by students from the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts. The event brought together a diverse group of leaders, starting with New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, who took the podium to express his admiration for Borough President Donovan Richards and the vibrant Queens community. Public Advocate Jumaane Williams also addressed the crowd, praising Queens as a microcosm of America, with its rich blend of cultures and immigrant stories. Williams commended Richards for his deep understanding of the borough’s complexities and challenges.

The evening continued with a performance of Summer Wind by the renowned RIOULT Dance New York, before Speaker of the NYC Council, Adrienne Adams, delivered a pointed critique of the Trump administration. Adams emphasized the importance of standing firm in Queens to protect New Yorkers, underscoring her partnership with Richards in “Trump-proofing” City Hall. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz also spoke, thanking local officials and the community for their support in tackling crime. She highlighted efforts to dismantle gangs, remove illegal weapons from the streets, combat human trafficking, and educate the public on scams, ensuring the borough remains safe and resilient.

Richards began his speech with a sharp critique of federal policies, particularly those under former President Donald Trump, which he argued posed significant threats to the people of Queens. “Now we’re going to do things a little differently this year, no fluff, no rhetoric, because we don’t have time to play games.” Richards said. “The state of our borough is precarious, Queens is under attack. Our wallets, our families, our futures, our values, our way of life.”  His defiant tone set the stage for the rest of the address, where he emphasized the borough’s resilience and diverse strength as the key to overcoming these challenges.

Immigration and Social Services

Richards highlighted his administration’s efforts to protect and support Queens’ immigrant communities, underscoring initiatives like the “Know Your Rights” workshops held in Corona and Queens Borough Hall, as well as resource fairs in Flushing. His office’s Immigration Task Force continues to connect residents to essential services, including legal and community support.

Notable investments included:

Make the Road Community Center: $1.8 million to support this Corona-based center, which provides legal services, childcare, and educational opportunities for local residents.

Variety Boys and Girls Club: An additional $5 million toward expanding this Astoria-based facility, following a previous $5 million investment in 2020.

River Fund Center: $3 million allocated for Richmond Hill’s nonprofit that provides food pantry services, SNAP enrollment assistance, and more.

Arverne East Aquatics Center: $46 million secured from the state, alongside an additional $36 million from city and borough funds, aimed at creating a state-of-the-art facility for the community.

Richards also discussed the planned $132 million Roy Wilkins Recreation Center, with $15 million allocated for renovations to the existing facility.

Borough President Richards also pointed to the significant strides already being made to address the swimming disparity gap, citing recent investments in public swimming pools in underserved neighborhoods. He specifically mentioned the allocation of resources to build and refurbish pools in locations where they are most needed, such as in the communities of Far Rockaway and South Jamaica. These new and renovated facilities will serve as vital community hubs, offering swimming lessons, water safety programs, and recreational opportunities for youth and adults alike. Richards emphasized that these pools are not just amenities—they are life-changing investments that equip residents with critical skills, promote physical activity, and enhance community cohesion.

Education Initiatives:

Richards focused on education as a cornerstone of Queens’ future, highlighting the $25 million allocated this year for Queens public schools, including the creation of new culinary arts kitchens at several schools. His administration also secured funding for:

$1 million to renovate P.S. 177Q, a special education school in Fresh Meadows.

Construction of a new 547-seat elementary school in Long Island City and a 700-seat annex at Forest Hills High School.

The opening of Motion Picture Technical High School and the upcoming Northwell School of Health and Sciences.

Since taking office, Richards has directed over $78 million in capital funding for school improvements.

Economic Development and Job Creation:

On the economic front, Richards detailed the progress of the $19 billion redevelopment of JFK Airport, including the $100 million refresh of Terminal 5 in partnership with JetBlue. This project, expected to create over 15,000 jobs, is a significant part of the borough’s broader economic growth strategy. Richards also noted that over $1 billion in contracts from the JFK redevelopment have been awarded to Queens-based businesses.

The Global Tech and Innovation Center, located at One Court Square, also received attention, with $5 million in funding for its development. Richards is committed to making Queens a hub for tech startups and innovation, a goal reinforced by the success of the borough’s annual Queens Tech and Career Expo.

Healthcare Investments: 

Queens’ first standalone cancer center at Jamaica Hospital, funded with $180 million in partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering. Reflecting on his personal experiences, Richards shared a poignant story about his grandmother, who was forced to navigate an inadequate healthcare system that ultimately failed her. He vowed to continue advocating for people in similar situations, ensuring that no one is left behind due to systemic inequities. His commitment to improving the borough’s healthcare infrastructure stems from a deeply personal place, as he understands the critical importance of accessible, quality care for all, particularly those in underserved communities.

The groundbreaking of a $30 million Gotham Health Clinic in Rockaway Village, slated to serve over 19,000 patients annually by 2027.

The expansion of St. John’s Episcopal Hospital’s labor and delivery unit, currently under construction. Richards also addressed the troubling maternal and infant mortality rates in Queens, particularly among Black women, who experience higher rates than any other demographic group. He emphasized that the borough’s new $30 million labor and delivery unit, under construction at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, is a vital step toward addressing this inequality. No woman, Richards argued, should have to leave her community to receive the care she deserves during one of the most important moments of her life. The new facility will offer comprehensive care to expectant mothers, helping to reduce these disparities and ensure healthier outcomes for both mothers and infants in Queens.

Since taking office, Richards has allocated $36 million toward improving healthcare facilities across the borough.

Environmental and Energy Initiatives:

In the realm of environmental sustainability, Richards emphasized his administration’s commitment to green infrastructure, citing more than $44 million invested into parks across Queens, including major upgrades at Cunningham, Brookville, Baisley, and Juniper Valley parks.

Champlain Hudson Power Express, which will bring hydroelectricity from Canada to Queens starting in 2026.

The transformation of the Ravenswood Generating Station in Long Island City into a renewable wind energy facility, which is expected to power 700,000 homes.

Richards also pledged $5.2 million for hydroponics labs in Queens schools and continued expansion of the borough’s Open Streets program.

Transportation Improvements:

Richards provided an update on several key transportation initiatives, including the upcoming $30 million Queens Bus Network Redesign, set to take effect in June, which will improve service on 20 bus routes and introduce 17 new routes.

Another major transportation project is the $5.5 billion Interborough Express, which will link Queens to Brooklyn, cutting commute times and benefiting millions of riders annually.

Affordable Housing:

Richards also reviewed the borough’s progress on affordable housing, noting the following developments:

Willets Point Development: Phase one, which includes 2,500 affordable units, a new school, and public park space, is slated for completion in 2026.

The One LIC Plan, which would add 14,000 affordable housing units in the Queensboro Bridge area, entered the public review process in April.

Arverne East: A community that has already seen hundreds of families move into newly built affordable housing units.

Beach Green Dunes III: New affordable housing units in Far Rockaway, with 116 units launched in a recent housing lottery.

Looking Forward:

In his closing remarks, Richards urged Queens residents to stand united in the face of national challenges, asserting that their collective strength would continue to drive the borough’s success. “I choose you, Queens. I choose the borough that builds riches, not burns them. I choose the borough that opens its arms to the world, not closes its doors to it,” he said.

Protest to Reopen Rainey Park Brings Community Together

BQE Admin on May 1, 2025

By Alice Moreno

Tom Griffin — a local Astoria resident and protest organizer — stood by Rainey Park at 10:00 a.m. sharp with a makeshift, paper-made yellow megaphone with the words “We the People” and “Thou Shalt Reopen Rainey Park” written on it, and a cart filled with signs in favor of Rainey Park’s reopening. He had one mission to accomplish: to have his and other local residents’ voices heard by city officials.

“I’ve had people contact us about this demonstration, complaining that their 83-year-old mother relies on this green space because she lives just around the corner and is infirm, and this is the sole access to a park for her,” said Griffin, as he shares his frustrations. “So for the past year and eight months, at this point, there’s been no park access for her.”

Rainey Park, located at 34-24 Vernon Blvd in Astoria, has been under construction since September 2023, according to the official website of the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. It had a projected completion date of September 2024 and has been adjusted to April 2025. The $8.5 million project was expected to reconstruct the playground, picnic grove, and basketball courts at the park.

However, residents aren’t seeing the change; in fact, the lack of parks is actively affecting their community. From the area, the closest parks are both Queensbridge Park — a 15-minute walk — and Astoria Park — a 25-minute walk — which render them inaccessible to those who are elderly, disabled, or own dogs. Many are also concerned by overcrowding in nearby parks such as Socrates Sculpture Park, making it difficult for those to walk around or play.

“It’s sad that a lot of the kids in the neighborhood don’t have a park anymore,” said Elia Sliba, a protester and resident of Astoria. “They’ve been playing in cement, like around the neighborhood. There are no playgrounds, and the closest Park is Queensbridge, and that’s kind of far for the parents to walk over there.”

Business owners are also getting affected by the park’s closure. Yesse Siqal, owner of “Bakers Cafe LIC” located across the street from Rainey Park, has noticed a significant decrease in foot traffic caused by the closure. It led to his business, which recently opened up two years ago, struggling financially.

“I went from like, going through all my life savings to getting a loan just to survive, because it’s it’s very hard to sustain,” said Siqal.

The idea of a protest began circling around the social media platform Reddit on April 1, when Griffin, under the username KickBlue22, posted on the Astoria thread about his frustrations with the park being closed for so long. Under the thread, many local residents also shared their discontent, with many thinking that the delayed opening is from a lack of budget. On April 11, Griffin made a separate post, urging residents to show up to the protest, hoping that a large number of people causing noise would bring attention to those around it.

Many residents, including Griffin, have also reached out to representatives of New York City Parks and Recreation and city officials, such as Tiffany Caban, via email.

In an email sent October 18, 2024, Griffin had asked the Capital Project Tracker email about the opening date of the park (it was then slated for September 2024). He received a response on November 16 from a representative of NYC Parks, apologizing for the delay due to supply chain issues. Griffin sent follow-up emails from December until February of 2025, with no response.

In an email thread dated from December 11 to 13, Griffin reached out to a representative of District 26 of the NYC Council, asking for clarification on park opening. After being transferred through various representatives, he received a response from John Guana, a representative of Caban’s office, who did not have any information regarding the opening and was still awaiting further information on a timeline for the construction. By December 19, a representative of Caban’s office responded to Griffin, stating that the park was 94% complete, and the opening date on the Park’s website was yet to be updated.

Griffin had also commented on Caban’s Instagram, asking to join him on the protest. He did not receive a response.

With over a dozen people showing up in the cold and rain, Astoria resident’s dedication to their green spaces is evident. As a plethora of cars beeped in support, many of the protesters cheered and chanted, all with a common goal to bring back their beloved park.

“This is the only park we had around here, and now they just took that away from us,” said Marcia Guerra, an Astoria resident. “It’s really upsetting. It’s just a waste of time and resources, and it’s something that our kids should be enjoying.”

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