Saturday, December 15, 2012

Civic Virtue To Be Snatched From Queens Today?

Shame Cam: In 4 hours, this historic view may be gone forever
 Will this be known as the day that Civic Virtue/civic virtue died in Queens?

Starting at 7 AM today, Queens' historic Civic Virtue, a historic public work of art will reportedly be confiscated by our city, chiseled away from its Angelina Crane Fountain, and be transported to Brooklyn's Green-Wood Cemetery on "long-term loan." Potentially according to the City Charter, long-term loan indicates a period of 3 years. Queens citizens pay their fair share of taxes, so public art belongs to us. We need to launch a further investigation and demand its return to Queens and its restoration! 

Does Queens have a Democracy? Would political forces dare to remove other famed works such as the Statue of David, Venus de Milo, or Perseus holding up the head of Medusa?

Jon Torodash, Founder of Triumphofcivicvirtue.org has been leading a "good fight" to have Civic Virtue retained and restored in Queens, which is where it has remained for 71 years. Torodash will be at the site, documenting its move. Kudos to his dedication and transparent nature in the face of political greed as witnessed over the years locally.

Case Studies of Political Greed?

--  A public servant known as our ex-Congressman Anthony Weiner called Civic Virtue sexist at his February 2011 press conference, and sent a request to the Department of Citywide Administrative Services, calling for its removal from Queens. In the meantime, he was caught sexting not long after, and then resigned from public office. 

 -- Queens BP Helen Marshall wants her rendition of a statue placed on top of the historic fountain base that would remain after Civic Virtue's removal. First, she envisioned a glass addition to the back of Queens Borough Hall which lead to the elimination of at least 20 healthy cherry trees in spring 2012, and then she refuses to restore Civic Virtue at her community's request, permitting its removal.

Civic Virtue holds a mirror up to the wrongdoings of our politicians, as it denounces societal corruption & vice, and some public servants just cannot bear the truth.

According to Triumphofcivicvirtue.org:

"Tomorrow, December 15th, Triumph of Civic Virtue is slated for removal. We have heard from a supporter, who has been serving jury duty in the area and spoke with the workmen, that removal will start at 7 AM. Apparently, they have already been sawing through the base. Jon Torodash will be down at the site filming the removal, both to make sure that it is done properly and to take record of the disgrace the event symbolizes. We welcome you to come out and witness this sad event."
http://triumphofcivicvirtue.org/2012/12/14/statue-to-be-removed-tomorrow/



Friday, December 7, 2012

RALLY To Spare Civic Virtue In Queens, Dec 8 at 11:30 AM


PLEASE ATTEND: SAT, DEC 8th at 11:30 AM, RALLY TO SPARE CIVIC VIRTUE STATUE IN QUEENS!

THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
OFFICE OF COUNCIL MEMBER PETER F. VALLONE JR.

For Immediate Release, December 7, 2012
Contact: Nicole Gelber
718-274-4500
914-469-2567

**MEDIA ADVISORY**

VALLONE: “DON’T TAKE OUR VIRTUE!”

Council Member joins Community Board 9 to protest relocation of historic “Civic Virtue” sculpture


Tomorrow, Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr. will join Community Board 9 Chair Andrea Crawford, District Manager Mary Ann Carey and residents of Queens at a rally protesting the City Design Commission’s recent ruling to permanently relocate the Triumph of Civic Virtue statue to Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn from Queens Borough Hall. The cemetery has stated that the statue may be moved in the next week!

The Design Commission ruled on November 13th to move the statue without input from the public, despite most Queens residents wanting the sculpture to remain in the borough. Community Board 9, which has always supported keeping Civic Virtue in Queens, is also greatly disappointed by the decision and the lack of consultation with residents and community leaders.

WHAT:
Triumph of Civic Virtue Rally
WHEN: Saturday, December 8th, 11:30 AM
WHERE: In front of statue, next to Queens Borough Hall (120-55 Queens Boulevard, Kew Gardens)
PHOTOS: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/8235435205/

* Triumph of Civic Virtue advocacy group: http://www.triumphofcivicvirtue.org

* Forest Hills Times/Queens Ledger column by Michael Perlman: http://www.foresthillstimes.com/view/full_story/21027503/article-Civic-Virtue-is-lost-to-Queens

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Civic Virtue At Stake In Queens


The Forest Hills Times/Queens Ledger features "Civic Virtue Is Lost To Queens?" by Michael Perlman:

http://www.foresthillstimes.com/view/full_story/21027503/article-Civic-Virtue-is-lost-to-Queens











Queens is about to suffer the historic loss of a prominent public work of art, an unofficial landmark, and the meaning of civic virtue.

On November 13, the NYC Design Commission approved a move of the Triumph of Civic Virtue, a statue situated west of Queens Borough Hall in Kew Gardens, to Brooklyn’s Green-Wood Cemetery. A public statue is slated to undergo a move to a privately owned cemetery on “long-term loan,” according to published reports. This decision was quietly made by the city, without the Queens community having any say in the process.

Civic Virtue kept an eye on passersby at the intersection of Queens Boulevard and Union Turnpike since 1941. After decades of neglect by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), Civic Virtue is not only corroding from the elements and physical abuse, but the city enclosed it with a jail-like fence in summer 2012, barring public interaction.

On July 17, the Daily News broke the news of a "secret plan” to transport it to the Brooklyn cemetery, in which DCAS was negotiating its future.

Much of the present controversy was ignited in February 2011, when former Congressman Anthony Weiner and Councilwoman Julia Ferreras staged a press conference at the statue. Weiner called Civic Virtue “sexist” and “anti-woman.” He then addressed a letter to DCAS calling for its removal from Queens.

In 2007, Queens Borough President Helen Marshall told the New York Times, “Vice is portrayed in the form of a woman. I have no enthusiasm for restoring the Civic Virtue statue.”

Green-Wood Cemetery has now pledged to finance Civic Virtue’s restoration, but ironically, history would be fragmented as the statue would be detached from its foundational Angelina Crane fountain; the latter of which would remain in Queens.

On November 26, 2012, Marshall’s spokesman, Dan Andrews, told the Times that the borough president hopes to restore the fountain and create a place paying tribute to women in history.

Since when is Civic Virtue sexist? An artist's vision is bound for misinterpretation, and Civic Virtue is often devalued through political debate. It depicts a muscular nude Hercules who stands over, but not atop, two mermaid-like sirens, which allegorically represent Vice and Corruption. It denounces societal wrongdoings, which some politicians cannot bear as they pass the statue en route to Queens Borough Hall.

Four omni-directional dolphin-head sprouts surround a fountain at its base. An inscription reads “This Fountain Was Erected By The City Of New York With Funds Bequeathed By Mrs. Angelina Crane.” Also engraved is “Mac Monnies 1920.”

The Classical 22-foot stone-and-White Georgia marble sculpture was designed in 1920 by the last major American Beaux Art sculptor, Frederick William MacMonnies, and was carved and placed by the Piccirilli Brothers. Thomas Hastings was the architect.

In 1922, Civic Virtue watched park-goers in City Hall Park. When some misinterpreted the statue as anti-women, it earned the nicknames “Tough Guy” and “Fat Boy.” On May 29, 1941, the 24-ton statue was transported to Kew Gardens, after Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia despised eyeing the statue’s backside from his City Hall window.

On October 7, 1941, Queens Borough President George Harvey stated, “For 12 years, Queens has really had civic virtue, but has never been able to prove it. We can now!” There were 50 invited guests including Adolph Weimann and A.F. Brinkerhoff of the National Sculptors Society, as well as 200 cheering onlookers.

Fast forward 71 years, Queens residents are now calling for an immediate halt of its slated transport to Brooklyn, and seek answers. Jon Torodash, a 30-year-old resident of Forest Hills/Kew Gardens founded TriumphofCivicVirtue.org, an advocacy group aimed to preserve Civic Virtue where it sits in Queens, and acquire funding for its restoration. Through social media, it sparked the interest of over 100 supporters and continues to grow.

Upon learning about Civic Virtue’s politically related endangerment, Torodash’s immediate response was “righteously indignant.”

“A sense of civic virtue motivated me,” he said. “The statue is a Neo-Classical interpretation of an American idea; namely the importance of open and honest government. The urge to move it reflects a person’s uneasiness with his or her own corruption.

“DCAS and the Design Commission have a mandate to preserve public art residing on public grounds,” Torodash added. “It is their obligation to Queens residents who pay their share of taxes.”

According to the Design Commission’s online bulletin, the public is “encouraged to submit their testimony in writing at least 3 business days in advance of the meeting date.” For Civic Virtue, TriumphofCivicVirtue.org noted, “The Design Commission’s public hearing was held on Tuesday, November 13, but the public bulletin about the hearing was not finalized online until Friday, November 9 at 9:48 PM, which is not 3 business days.”

As for the group’s next course, “Triumphofcivicvirtue.org will be investigating the Design Commission’s public hearing procedure,” said Torodash.

“Many of us emigrated to the USA precisely because it’s not like the corrupt 'Old World,’ so how the hell does something so nefarious get pulled off in the free world?” asked Architect Ivan Mrakovcic, president of the Richmond Hill Historical Society.

“I want a full accounting of who is responsible for this blatant attempt of theft of our public art,” he continued. “The only heads that need to roll are the duplicitous staff of DCAS, and whoever they answered to. Community Board 9 was ignored too.”

John Scandalios, a 2013 candidate for City Council, pointed fingers at ex-Congressman Weiner for being a major cause of the Civic Virtue debate.

“It is more than odd that a U.S. Congressman, who resigned his office following the media reporting his lewd behavior, found such an important piece of New York City art history so objectionable, that he attempted to sell this statue on Craigslist without having authority,” he said.

“Would people like to have pieces of art history such as the statue of David or Venus de Milo banished to cemeteries, just because some elected officials find it tasteless and offensive?” Scandalios asked. “Which elected official will stand up now for what's right, and undo the wrong of a past shamed elected official?”

Councilman Peter Vallone answered Scandalios’ plea.

“I am looking into the legality of the Design Commission’s hearing, and I want to see if their notice was sufficient,” he said. “Two weeks after Hurricane Sandy, they sent out a mass email with items being considered for the entire city. Many people had their email down at that time, including City Council. Not one citizen I know of testified, and I first found out about the hearing through the New York Times blog, after it took place.

“If Civic Virtue was against women, I wouldn’t stand for it as a father of two daughters,” said Vallone. “If you oppose this statue, then you have to oppose Perseus holding the head of Medusa. This is a complete misunderstanding of Greek mythology, and Civic Virtue should be restored right where it is.”

A rally to spare Civic Virtue for Queens’ sake of civic virtue is planned among community representatives later in the week. “We are always looking for volunteers, and supporting their own ideas as to how,” Torodash stated.

Stay tuned for updates on www.TriumphOfCivicVirtue.org.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs To Host Centennial Gala


Rego-Forest Preservation Council is proud to support the preservation and any historically-accurate restoration of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church in Forest Hills.


Our Lady Queen of Martyrs To Host Centennial Gala
by Michael Perlman of the Forest Hills Times/Queens Ledger


http://www.foresthillstimes.com/view/full_story/20960017/article-Our-Lady-Queen-of-Martyrs-to-host-centennial-gala

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs photos by Michael Perlman







Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Roman Catholic Church is a sacred and scenic cornerstone in the heart of Forest Hills, and has been for generations. Now parishioners, alumni, and family and friends have the chance to be part of history in the making.

The “100 Years of Gratitude Centennial Dinner Dance Gala” will take place on December 3, at 6 p.m. at Russo’s On The Bay, 162-45 Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach. All proceeds will benefit the church.

This conclusive centennial gala will mark a new chapter, while rejoicing its deeply rooted history of development and the growth of Catholicism since the congregation’s founding in 1912 in Forest Hills.

The gala will follow the glory of the November 18th Centennial Mass of Thanksgiving by Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, and the June 3rd Centennial Concert, which featured the Sacred Music Society and honored Reverend Monsignor Joseph Funaro upon his retirement. Rev. Paul R. Sanchez is the new pastor.

As religious buildings age and congregations sometimes dwindle, this church has fared well in both areas, but is in need of funding for restoration and improvements. According to the church’s website, the Centennial Campaign seeks to raise $1,240,000, and $1,440,541 has been pledged by 433 families to date.

Parishioners expressed a bond and recognized the church’s commitment to the community. Parishioner BarbaraAnn Balzaretti Flannery, a member of the Sacred Music Society, will always recall the immediate welcome she and her husband received upon moving to Forest Hills six years ago.

“I have made friends for life, and we are truly part of an amazing family,” she said. “Our Lady Queen of Martyrs is such an important part of Forest Hills history, and I have always favored a magnificent, traditional cathedral. As a musician, the acoustics enable a glorious sound from the organ and orchestra when we have our Christmas concert, a sound that can be heard even from the street.”

Regina Judith Faighes, a parishioner for over 10 years and a lector and choir member, highly anticipates attending the Centennial Gala.

“As this Centennial year draws to a close, I will be a part of the generation that will begin our parish's next century,” she said. “Our church, school, rectory, and convent are architectural gems that are esthetically pleasing even to people who are not members of our Catholic faith. The beauty of these structures augments their sacredness, and I am grateful it did not undergo the modernization that happened to other churches its age following Vatican II.”

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs was modeled after England’s Durham Cathedral, which was erected from 1093 to 1130, and conveyed Medieval ties. The church’s campus is one of the most pristine, stately, and memorable sites in Forest Hills, and spans Queens Boulevard, Ascan Avenue, Austin Street, and 72nd Road.

Its architecturally harmonious buildings of three decades cast a Tudor Neo-Gothic presence within a suburban country setting, which passersby would not typically expect to encounter along the highly civilized Queens Boulevard. Regal architecture is complemented by mature Sycamore and Oak trees, a landscaped perimeter, and inner gardens.

The church’s sanctuary building at 110-06 Queens Boulevard was the recipient of a 1st prize architectural award in the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s annual building competition in December 1939.

Designed by architects Maginnis & Walsh of Boston and erected by the Edmund J. Naughton Building Corp. for a cost of $365,000, it was part of a $2,000,000 building plan. The groundbreaking took place on May 18, 1938, where Reverend Joseph R. McLaughlin told the operator “Now do your stuff.”

After the church was able to acquire a square block, McLaughlin shared his vision of a church and a rectory on December 3, 1936. It came to fruition when the church opened on November 5, 1939. In front of 3,000 attendees, Bishop Molloy led a dedication ceremony on May 30, 1940. The church signified the enthusiastic nature of a small Catholic community in Forest Hills, but with expanding demographics due to the nearby 1939-1940 World’s Fair, the new church became an icon in the eyes of many.

Backtracking, in January 1929, the church’s Parochial School at 72-15 Austin Street won a 1st prize award in the Queens Chamber of Commerce’s Institutional Buildings category. It was also designed by Maginnis & Walsh, and erected by Laurence J. Rice. To the benefit of the 22-year-old Forest Hills community, the sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary opened the school on September 9, 1928, and would later teach its students. Through 1939, the 500-plus seat School Hall hosted church services, and in 1984, it was named McLaughlin Hall in homage to the first pastor.

A three-story convent would rise on 72nd Road in 1953. In December 1954, it was also the recipient of a 1st prize architectural award by the Chamber. It would house 24 sisters of the teaching order, and contain a chapel. Carved in stone, the convent features a life-sized statue of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs.

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs’ 100 years can be traced to November 13, 1912, when permission was granted by Bishop Charles E. McDonnell for a Sunday Mass in Forest Hills. The Bishop was noted for the development of Catholic schools and churches to address Catholic immigrants’ spiritual needs.

Margaret Dealy offered her Forest Hills home for Mass. On May 28, 1916, a humble wood-framed chapel was dedicated by the bishop, but succumbed to fire on April 29, 1929.

The current church’s interior is grand yet warm, with its vaulted ceilings, archways, columns, and abundant stained glass. The perspective from the pulpit area makes it seem more intimate. The church is cruciform in layout, reminiscent of most early churches.

Architectural features are enriching, and offer a lesson in religious history. For example, The Pieta is one of many limestone carvings found over the arched main portal and secondary entrances on Ascan Avenue, as well as the Queens Boulevard portal.

Ornamental carvings include the Scale of Judgment and the Ten Commandments tablets, and the pelican brass gate in front of the altar. Wooden pulpit statues include St. Augustine.

The extensive quantity of multi-sized and shaped stained glass windows of the campus’ Weymouth granite, Indiana limestone, and Deer Island granite trimmed façades offer varying motifs and biblical lessons. A rectangular steeple bears dominance over Queens Boulevard, and a traditional spire adds uniqueness to Austin Street.

“The architecture and stained glass are magnificent, and with its illuminated façade at night, as our Administrator and former pastor Msgr. Funaro so well phrased it,” said Faighes, “it is a beacon of faith on Queens Boulevard.”

Monday, October 22, 2012

Jeff Gottlieb: Historian Paints A Central Queens Legacy Read more: Forest Hills Times - Jeff Gottlieb Historian Paints A Central Queens Legacy


This is Michael Perlman's Forest Hills Times/Queens Ledger 10/18/12 article on Historian Jeff Gottlieb, Founder & President of Central Queens Historical Association. On October 14th, he led the Downtown Forest Hills tour, and addressed architectural styles and historic patterns:

http://www.foresthillstimes.com/view/full_story/20541607/article-Jeff-Gottlieb--Historian-Paints-A-Central-Queens-Legacy


Buildings of historic note in the Austin St, Continental Ave, Queens Blvd, & Ascan Ave vicinity of Forest Hills are as follows: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/collections/72157617717136872/

Throughout Forest Hills and Rego Park, as well as much of Central Queens and beyond, a richly built history with individuals who made an imprint exists in unique ways. We just need to know where to look, pause momentarily, and gaze up in midst of busy routines to admire historic architectural styles above modern storefronts. If feeling inspired enough, we can also visit archives.

Thanks to the dedication of historian Jeff Gottlieb, founder and president of Central Queens Historical Association, the 11th annual Downtown Forest Hills tour took place on October 14, and the public acquired some excerpts from this “walking encyclopedia.”

Gottlieb, a resident of Kew Gardens Hills, was raised in Crown Heights. He is a retired history teacher, who is currently employed by the Board of Elections. He graduated from Forest Hills High School and earned a BA and MS in Education at Queens College.

In the early 1980s, Gottlieb joined Community Board 6, and felt enriched by the history of Forest Hills. He visited the Long Island Room of Jamaica’s Central Library, which is home to historic newspapers, books, and vintage photos.

In 1986, he coordinated his first Forest Hills tour, which he admits he initially had minimal knowledge of. His followers increased when weeklies printed local history articles.

In the 1990s, he conducted lectures and additional tours, and submitted papers and slideshows to libraries. Some of his walking tours include Forest Hills Gardens, Rego Park, 108th Street, Cord Meyer, Kew Gardens, Kew Gardens Hills, Queens College, Downtown Jamaica, and Richmond Hill.

Some of his bus tours are Jewish Central Queens and “Jazz Trail: From Flushing Town Hall to Addisleigh Park.”

The Downtown Forest Hills tour encompasses Austin Street on the south, Ascan Avenue on the east, 70th Avenue on the west, and Queens Boulevard on the north, and contains commercial and residential developments, as well as religious buildings.

Notable sites reflect the Tudor, Georgian Colonial, Colonial, Art Moderne, Tudor Gothic, and Neo-Renaissance styles. Gottlieb explained historic patterns of the 20th century business district, distinctive architectural details, and skillful developers and architects such as Benjamin Braunstein and Theobald Engelhardt.

Memorable 20th century businesses include the Forest Hills Theatre, Sutton Hall Pharmacy (a soda-fountain spot), Beau Brummel, Woolworth’s, Addie Vallens, the Homestead, Cheeses of The World, and Buster Brown Shoes.

Some of Forest Hills' numerous notables are Helen Keller, Bud Abbott, Lou Costello, and Geraldine Ferraro. Non-existent alphabetical street names include DeKoven Street, Euclid Street, Fife Street, Windsor Place, and Roman Avenue.

Continental Avenue was a thoroughfare referred to as "The Village,” with sites designed in the 1920s as a complementary gateway to the nearby Forest Hills Gardens (1909), the country’s earliest planned garden community.

Continental Avenue and much of Austin Street retain an English village feel. For example, Tudor design is most prevalent at 1 Continental Avenue at Queens Boulevard, which features a steep slate roofline with wood spandrels, a two-tone brick and stone half-timber effect, a limestone entryway, and a shield at the climactic point of the central cross section with limestone quoins.

The glazed terra-cotta tiled brick and stone façade of the 1920s former Forest Hills Theatre once had an organ and screened silent films. The two-story Tudor-style building at Continental Ave and Austin Street is the earliest extant business site, which housed Horton’s Ice Cream circa 1911, a general shop, and then Cushman’s Bakery and King George in its more recent past.

Adjacent on Austin Street are Austin Hall and Tudor Hall, which are the street’s earliest apartment houses dating to the late teens. The 1920s former Corn Exchange Bank on the opposite corner now houses Boston Market, which features a pitched tiled roof and crops in ornamentation between windows, tying in with the bank’s theme of prosperity.

Another signature element of the tour was the site of Forest Hills' first firehouse, a humble wooden edifice on Austin Street. A temporary electrified LIRR station on the south side was built in close proximity to Forest Hills' first developed street in 1906, Roman Avenue, which is now 72nd Avenue.

Its few remaining elaborate Neo-Renaissance rowhouses were the earliest sites developed by Cord Meyer Development, which named Forest Hills. This was the site of Central Queens Historical Association’s 1991 and 2006 dedication ceremonies. Some rowhouses were demolished in recent years.

One of Forest Hills’ largest buildings of the 1920s is Sutton Hall, which spans Ascan Avenue. Benjamin Braunstein was a household architect, and it is one of the greatest examples of Tudor architecture and urban planning in Downtown Forest Hills, evident by its stepped entryway, Medieval wood doors with knight motifs on stained glass, a cupola, a mansard roof, a prominent half-timber effect, castle-like corners, and inner courtyards and recessed facades enabling light and air.

Another one of Forest Hills’ largest buildings is the predominantly built 1920s and 1930s-era Tudor Gothic-style Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church, which covers a square block, with a main entrance on Ascan Avenue.

It was designed by Maginnis & Walsh, and offers a soaring Indiana limestone sanctuary, numerous stained glass windows varying in design, and landscaped areas surrounding and between its buildings.

Erected in 1930, Georgian Court bears distinction as being Forest Hills’ first sole apartment house on Queens Boulevard, and features a Corinthian entryway, a heavily inlaid mosaic lobby, a mansard slate roof with balustrades, and a recessed planting area.

Further west on Queens Boulevard, the Art Moderne Midway Theatre, named after WWII’s Battle of Midway, was designed by the renowned Thomas Lamb and features a signature sweeping staircase.

When interviewed about how the Landmarks Preservation Commission can be improved, Gottlieb explained, “I would like to see more personnel and increased funding for research.

“I want them to provide the real reasons why Queens sites are rejected, rather than serving form letters to the public,” he added. “I also want more Queens landmarks, some public hearings in the evenings, and Queens properties to be heard in Queens.”

Gottlieb’s credentials extend to President of the Queens Jewish Historical Society, VP of Native New Yorkers Historical Society, Co-Chair of Queens College’s Polish-Jewish Dialogue Committee, and President of the Committee to Preserve Jamaica Architecture & History.

Gottlieb’s wisdom prospers with age. Now at 71, he foresees his future as historian. As the Central Queens Historical Association will be celebrating their 25th anniversary in 2013, he envisions future tours.

He also hopes to achieve city landmarking victories on the Queens College and St. John’s University campuses, landmark designations in Jamaica, as well as designations in Forest Hills, such as Eddie’s Sweet Shop, the Medical Society of Queens County, the former Metropolitan Industrial Bank (Bank of America), and Rego Park’s Lefrak Center.

Foremost leaders owe gratitude to others. Evident by his vision of presenting humanitarian awards, Gottlieb builds a legacy as a community historian and leader.














Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Queens Ledger: "Autumn Tree Giveaway In Forest Hills, A Colorful Opportunity"


This is Michael Perlman's article, "Autumn Tree Giveaway In Forest Hills: A Colorful Opportunity," published in the Forest Hills Times/Queens Ledger on Oct 10, 2012. Please feel free to comment & share:

http://www.foresthillstimes.com/view/full_story/20432000/article-Autumn-Tree-Giveaway-in-Forest-Hills--A-Colorful-Opportunity

Volunteers at the May 20, 2012 4BNPA Tree Giveaway, Courtesy of Dennis O'Brien Photography

Varied species at the 4BNPA Tree Giveaway May 20, 2012, Courtesy of Michael Perlman

This autumn, the boroughs are about to become greener with a splash of color.

The Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance (4BNPA) will hold its third tree giveaway event in Forest Hills, which will be the first of its kind in the fall. On Sunday, October 14th from 1 to 3 PM, citywide residents will have the chance to line up in MacDonald Park on Queens Boulevard and 70th Avenue and adopt one of the unique 100 trees to take home and plant on private property.


To make this event possible, 4BNPA is working in partnership with MillionTreesNYC and New York Restoration Project (NYRP). Toyota is a lead sponsor, and lead partners are NYRP, plaNYC, and the Parks Department.

This season, in combination with other citywide tree giveaways, 1,450 trees will be donated. There are 14 tree giveaways scheduled, with four in Queens. In spring 2013, NYRP expects to give away between 3,300 and 3,700 trees. In spring 2012, more than 5,000 trees were donated, which means that NYRP will donate greater than 6,500 trees over the course of a year.

“Forging long-lasting, inter-city relationships are the best way to develop a sense of community in New York City,” said Mike Mitchell, NYRP Community Initiative coordinator. “NYRP is very excited about our third giveaway with 4BNPA. The commitment 4BNPA has shown for improving our urban environment is amazing, and we hope 4BNPA continues to push the envelope when it comes to expanding NYC’s urban tree canopy.”

NYRP began coordinating tree giveaways in 2008. Inspiration stemmed from the understanding that MillionTreesNYC was focused on greening public spaces, but private homes, religious institutions, and community gardens also represent a great portion of the city, and therefore merit tree planting.

On September 16, 2010, parts of Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island experienced a rare macroburst tornado. Joseph Bruno of the city's Office of Emergency Management reported 3,113 trees fell in Queens. Furthermore, Hurricane Irene contributed to the loss of trees citywide in August 2011.

As Queens vice president of the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance Corporation and a native Forest Hills resident, I documented the local devastation, submitted a proposal to NYRP, and developed a bond.

4BNPA agreed to host its first tree giveaway event on June 12, 2011, and its second giveaway on May 20, 2012, where 100 trees and 245 trees were donated, respectively. Volunteers from Rego-Forest Preservation Council also played a prominent role. With a major emphasis on donating native tree species at the second event, it helped restore the natural and historic local beauty.

Many community residents did not realize the benefits of trees, until some of which were a century-old succumbed in seconds during the natural disasters. Trees convey life, beauty, contribute to environmental sustainability, and enhance property values.

MacDonald Park was once again selected as the event site, in order to shed light upon a concentrated space which lost sixty mature trees during the tornado, and to initiate memories of productive community events. Forest Hills was one of the greatly damaged neighborhoods, and the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliances seeks to restore its “forest” factor, as a case in point.

Most common trees in the boroughs include Gingko, Honey Locust, Callery Pear, Oak, and Sycamore. Many graceful Maple and Elm trees that lined streets succumbed to the Asian Longhorn Beetle and Dutch Elm disease, respectively, so it is urgent to maintain surviving trees.

To diversify the tree population, four unique species will now be available, which are American Beech, Serviceberry, Common Witch Hazel, and Black Walnut.

American Beech is native from Quebec to Florida, and is a slow to moderate-growing tree that reaches 30 feet in 20 years. Many can live greater than 150 years. After 50 to 75 years, it will reach its maximum height of 50 to 70 feet. Its fall color will be a showy yellow or copper.

“There is no replacement for the American Beech, as far as its value to wildlife,” said Mitchell. “We believe planting and keeping these trees healthy is key to creating ecological corridors for wildlife traveling to and from Jamaica Bay.”

Serviceberry is native from Maine to the Carolinas, and is a slow to moderate-growing tree that reaches its full height of 20 to 25 feet in 20 to 40 years. It can survive between 50 and 150 years.

It produces white flowers in the spring, and edible red or purple fruit from May to July. In the fall, its leaves are orange, red, or yellow, and its bark is silver and gray with stripes.

“This tree is truly a year-round stunner,” Mitchell said. “Its fruit is also delicious raw, and you can use it for jellies or jam. It is a favorite of New York City birds.”

Common Witch Hazel is native to eastern and central U.S. and is a moderate grower reaching 15 to 25 feet in approximately two decades. It lives between 50 and 150 years.

Witch Hazels are known for their late fall and winter blooms, and the Common Witch Hazel produces showy yellow fragrant flowers in the late fall. Its bark is brownish-gray.

Black Walnut is native from Quebec to Florida, and is a large, moderately fast grower, reaching 30 to 50 feet in two decades. Its full height ranges from 50 to 70 feet in the city. The tallest Black Walnuts reach greater than 120 feet. Healthy Black Walnuts can live longer than 150 years.

“The Black Walnut produces black walnuts, which are delicious,” Mitchell said. “Best picked and husked when they are green, it is one of the most prized nut-producing trees in the U.S.”

“This endeavor is consistent with the borough-wide movement toward ecological sensitivity,” said James Trent, president of 4BNPA. “Four Borough's involvement is a great event, since our mission is to preserve and improve the quality of life for low-density neighborhoods.

“Some trees may end up in highly dense neighborhoods, but that is not a problem, since none of us live in a vacuum,” he added. “Trees improve air quality and beautify the city for all.”

On October 14, those who wish to adopt a potted tree should line up before 1 p.m. at MacDonald Park. In advance, tree adopters may reserve their tree online at www.nyrp.org/QueensTrees.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Press Release: 10/14 Forest Hills Tree Giveaway Will Be A Colorful Opportunity This Autumn



Contact: Michael Perlman
Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance
Rego-Forest Preservation Council
unlockthevault@hotmail.com

For Immediate Release

10/14 Forest Hills Tree Giveaway Will Be A Colorful Opportunity This Autumn

 
NYC's 5 Boroughs (October 2012) - This autumn, the boroughs are about to become greener with a splash of color. The Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance will hold its third tree giveaway event in Forest Hills, which will be the first of its kind in the fall. On Sunday, October 14 from 1 PM – 3 PM, citywide residents will have the chance to line up in MacDonald Park on Queens Boulevard and 70th Avenue, and adopt one of the unique 100 trees to take home and plant on private property. To make this event possible, Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance (4BNPA) is in partnership with MillionTreesNYC and New York Restoration Project (NYRP). Toyota is a lead sponsor, and lead partners are NYRP, plaNYC, and NYC Parks.


Mike Mitchell, NYRP Community Initiative Coordinator explained, “Forging long-lasting, inter-city relationships are the best way to develop a sense of community in New York City. NYRP is very excited about our third giveaway with 4BNPA. The commitment 4BNPA has shown for improving our urban environment is amazing, and we hope 4BNPA continues to push the envelope when it comes to expanding NYC’s urban tree canopy.”

NYRP began coordinating tree giveaways in 2008. Inspiration stemmed from the understanding that MillionTreesNYC was focused on greening public spaces, but private homes, religious institutions, and community gardens also represent a great portion of the city, and therefore merits tree-planting.

On September 16, 2010, parts of Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island experienced a rare macroburst. Joseph Bruno of the NYC Office of Emergency Management reported 3,113 fallen Queens trees. As Queens VP of the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance Corporation and a native Forest Hills resident, Michael Perlman documented the local devastation, submitted a proposal to NYRP, and developed a bond. Furthermore, Hurricane Irene contributed to the loss of trees citywide in August 2011.

4BNPA agreed to host its first tree giveaway event on June 12, 2011 and its second giveaway on May 20, 2012, where 100 trees and 245 trees were donated, respectively. Volunteers from Rego-Forest Preservation Council also played a dominant role. With a major emphasis on donating native tree species at the second event, it helped restore the natural and historic beauty locally and beyond. 

Perlman explained, "Many community residents did not realize the benefits of trees, until some of which were a century-old succumbed in seconds during natural disasters. Trees convey life, beauty, contribute to environmental sustainability, and enhance property values. MacDonald Park was once again selected as the event site, in order to shed light upon a concentrated space which lost sixty mature trees during the tornado, and to initiate memories of productive community events. Forest Hills was one of the greatly damaged neighborhoods, and the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliances seeks to restore its 'forest' factor, as a case in point."

 Most common trees in the boroughs include Gingko, Honey Locust, Callery Pear, Oak, and Sycamore. Many graceful Maple and Elm trees that gracefully lined streets succumbed due to the Asian Longhorn Beetle and Dutch Elm disease, respectively, so it is urgent to maintain surviving trees. To diversify the tree population, four unique species will now be available, which are American Beech, Serviceberry, Common Witch Hazel, and Black Walnut.  

 
James A. Trent, President of the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance Foundation, explained, “This endeavor is consistent with the borough-wide movement toward ecological sensitivity. Four Borough's involvement is a great event, since our mission is to preserve and improve the quality of life for low-density neighborhoods. Some trees may end up in highly dense neighborhoods, but that is not a problem, since none of us live in a vacuum. Trees improve air quality and beautify the city for all.”

With much enthusiasm, Mitchell stated, “This fall, New Yorkers not only get to take a tree home, but they get to see the urban nature in its most festive state.” On October 14, those who wish to adopt a potted tree should line up before 1 PM at MacDonald Park. In advance, tree adopters may reserve their tree online at www.nyrp.org/QueensTrees
Photos

Oct 2012 Tree Giveaway: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157631726378478/

May 2012 Tree Giveaway: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157629808414806/
June 2011 Tree Giveaway: http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157626715360082

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Wednesday, July 4, 2012

4th of July: Forest Hills Edition

4th of July 1917, Station Square costume dance
This is Michael Perlman's article, "4th of July: Forest Hills Edition," published in the Forest Hills Times/Queens Ledger on July 4, 2012. Please feel free to comment & share:
http://www.queensledger.com/view/full_story/19208316/article-4th-of-July--Forest-Hills-Edition

Patriotism and tradition echo in Forest Hills. In recent times, on the weekend following Memorial Day, Forest Hills Gardens organizes a celebration known as Children’s Day at Flagpole Green, which features decorations, face painting, cotton candy, hot dogs, raffles, and games.

Historically, music has played a significant role in Forest Hills Gardens celebrations, so attendees can expect to rejoice to the sounds of John Philip Sousa, a late American composer, who is noted for his patriotic and military marches.

Stepping back in time, Forest Hills Gardens witnessed the light of very elaborate 4th of July commemorations on the actual date. The teens are nearly a century ago, so let’s place our modern minds into the shoes our ancestors walked, and stand in the footsteps of triumph in our country’s earliest planned garden community. Station Square, Village Green, and Olivia Park were classic sites of rich tradition, and exist in a pristine state to this very day.




July 4, 1914 marked the Gardens’ first annual Independence Day celebration. Since the population of the community was minimal, and Forest Hills at large was a small town, the first celebration was noted for its camaraderie.

Greenway Terrace became an al fresco dancing pavilion, which signified the first step of solidarity. A highlight of the second celebration in 1915 was the Pageant of Colonial Times in Station Square, the dedication of the Piping Pan bird fountain (cherub blowing a flute) in Olivia Park with Baroness von Rottenthall’s interpretative dancing, and the Fourth of July Committee’s acquisition of a silver cup for annual tennis matches, which began that year.


 The Forest Hills Gardens Bulletin defined the success of teamwork through organizations and residents in 1916, which read, “The Fourth of July Celebration at the Gardens is primarily, yes wholly, a community affair. It is the people’s day – a memorial of the first great test of unity in this country, and it is interpreted here in the Gardens as an expression of organized community effort.”

That same year, attendees participated in the dedication of a 108-foot flagpole on Village Green, with an inscribed bronze collar at the base. The official flag of the Forest Hills Gardens was first to be raised on the 4th of July.


An allegory called The Happy Stranger was presented in the natural amphitheater-style Olivia Park. The Red Cross Society generated proceeds by selling ice cream, Cracker Jacks, lemonade, peanuts, popcorn, and lollipops under the Square’s archways.



 In great anticipation, Gardens residents decorated their homes, and the Committee on Decorations and Illuminations applied their touch to Station Square and Village Green. The iconic Forest Hills Inn offered special menus and decorations. The Inn’s Tea Garden was boasted as a particular attraction, since children of the entire community were treated as guests to a party of their own.



 One of Forest Hills’ most notable 4th of July moments took place atop the steps of Station Square’s Long Island Railroad Station in 1917, where onlookers heard Colonel Theodore Roosevelt’s One-Hundred Percent American Speech. He pleaded for allegiance to the America of Washington and Lincoln, and thousands cheered in response.



A miniature Greek temple was erected in Olivia Park, which functioned as a stage setting for attendees witnessing the light of Ralph Renaud’s The Masque of Liberty.




A 1918 highlight was U.S. Senator Calder’s speech in Station Square. That year had a more sacred feel, since wounded soldiers and sailors of WWI were honored over dinner at the Church-In-The-Gardens. Students of Louis Chalif’s famed dance school performed in Olivia Park.




 The success of the U.S. and her allies played a pivotal role in the 1919 commemoration. An excerpt from the Forest Hills Gardens Bulletin captured the spirit.

“Nothing was more impressive than the raising of the Flag by a member of the old Rifle Corps while the people assembled sang the Star-Spangled Banner, and nothing was more skillfully done than the reading of the Independence Day Proclamation of the Citizens by the Town Crier, Harvey Warren, in old New England costume. Captain Horace F. Pomeroy, chairman of the celebration committee, spoke of the history of the old Rifle Club – the first military organization of Forest Hills – and then introduced the Rev. Rowland S. Nichols, Chaplain of the Rifle Club who spoke briefly and offered prayer.”

The Forest Hills Rifle Club was the first case of loyalty locally, and its revival for the celebration was integral.

Beginning at 9:30 a.m., Village Green hosted flag-raising exercises, the Community Chorus sang patriotic airs, and the Rifle Club reunion took place. Station Square hosted political addresses at 11 a.m. Tennis matches took place at the Forest Hills Inn Courts at 12:30 p.m., which featured the Inns vs. the Outs. The Inns lived in the Forest Hills Inn, and the Outs lived throughout the Forest Hills Gardens.


At 1 p.m., attendees enjoyed children’s games, as well as the French Doll Dance, where female dancers were assisted by the Boy Scouts. Games included yard dashes for children, grand tilting matches for parents, a kiddie car race, a paper fight, a sack race, a baby carriage race for fathers, a pillow fight, an optic contest for adults, a half-mile relay, and dressing and obstacle races.

At 4:30 p.m., The Golden Day allegory by Ralph Renaud took stage at Olivia Park, where locals and talented students of the Chalif Normal School of Dancing performed in a sylvan setting. The play featured the harmonious Butterfly Dance, The Dances of The Summer Nocturne, and The Song of The Birds. The setting was complemented by an orchestra of strings and a vocal interlude.

At 7:30 p.m., under incandescent lights and electric streamers with flags and pennants, nearly 3,000 attendees would enjoy the 9th Coast Artillery Band Concert in Station Square, followed by the flamboyant Costume Dance at 8:30 p.m. Popular costumes were the Pierrot, Pierrette and Yama Yama.

Artists designed highly stylized 4th of July posters annually. Herman Rountree’s 1916 poster depicted a clown and a mule with astonished children in period clothing in the backdrop. It read, “Yes Mule – It’s The Greatest Show on Earth.”



B. Hooper’s “Coming July 4th” poster from 1916 depicted a clown-like child rejoicing on a circus elephant bearing a humanly expression of wisdom and holding high a 4th of July flag.

Rountree’s 1917 poster depicted the Forest Hills Inn and Station Square as the backdrop of Village Green, where bystanders witnessed the raising of the flag. That same year, another one of Rountree’s posters captured the masquerade feel of Station Square with the train station in the backdrop. On various levels of creativity, beauty was indeed in the detail!



A typical celebration called for glorious expression, as in the case of Gertrude Knevels’ Station Square – A Fourth Of July Impression, which read:

Old Glory from the Tower looks down. 
To bless the folly of the town,
Lights, laughter, color everywhere –
Wise folks like happy children there,
At play in Station Square.
Far over all the clear night sky
Spreads tender hands – What hurries by? – 
It is the train that grumbling goes,
Bearing the world and all its woes
Away from Station Square!