Rego-Forest Preservation Council

All Aboard The QueensLine! Petition Drive For A 21st Century Queens Destination!!!

2011-12-09T01:30:00.000-05:00

A fragment of the 3.5-mile stretch of the LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch Line is the Fleet Street trestle, which sits abandoned since 1962, Photo by Michael Gannon, Associate Editor of the Queens Chronicle.

Are you a fan of historic & environmental preservation, and recreation? Queens has a treasure waiting to happen! Visualize a mixed-use leafy & colorful path, offering a commanding view of Rego Park, Forest Hills, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill,and Ozone Park. As part of Mayor Bloomberg's PlaNYC 2030, every community resident should be within a 10-minute walk to a park.

Well... It takes moments to sign and post a comment on the PETITION to grant new life to the abandoned LIRR Rockaway Beach Branch Line as the "Queens (High) Line," which could become one of Queens' greatest assets. Please help spread the word through today's many methods of social media, and inform as many family members and friends as possible, to help reach a goal of 1,000 signatures as a start:

http://www.change.org/petitions/queens-borough-commissioner-nyc-parks-and-recreation-create-a-greenway-along-the-abandoned-rockaway-beach-branch-right-of-way

Follow & comment on "Envisioning The Queens High Line," which began as a blog by Anandi Premlall: http://queenshighline.blogspot.com

It greatly expanded into a 560-member Facebook Group, which began not long ago... Nov 13th, and I take pride in being one of the admins: http://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/queenshighline

The cause has caught wind on Twitter too:
http://www.twitter.com/queenshighline

According to Peter Beadle, it would link the above Central & Southern Queens communities with Forest Park and theBrooklyn-Queens Greenway, and to nearby bike lanes leading to the recreationalspaces of Rockaway Beach and Jamaica Bay, including the Shore Parkway path,Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and Gateway National Recreation Area. It would alsoconnect at least five subway lines and numerous commercial districts, shops andschools.

As a case in point, at the NYC High Line, some only saw a structure unkempt for decades and called it an eyesore, calling for its demolition, but civic-minded NYC residents realized that beneath the grime, there was detail that read N-Y-C all over it. The High Line is a unique inspiration. It initiates greenery, spares a historic site from demolition, provides some recreation, hosts historic tours, connects and bonds our communities, creates jobs, and enhances community character and property values. It is a backyard treasure that becomes easily accessible.

A creative vision, teamwork, and perseverance resulted in the great success of the High Line in Manhattan, and the same can be achieved for a "Queens (High) Line." The wishes of the Queens community can be fulfilled through some of the same ingredients, and much can be accomplished through volunteers from all age groups, who walk Queens with every heartbeat.

This is a landmark opportunity to eliminate the heavy mass of litter at the site (wrecked cars, aluminum cans, plastic bags, tires), and sensitively and creatively reuse this 6-decade abandoned stretch for the 21st century. Imagine... how you can take your family and friends on a polished industrial relic bonding our Central & Southern Queens communities, and walking or bicycling through a 3.5-mile park and trail with some native vegetation and edible gardens, while reuniting with old friends and making new ones from Queens' diverse communities.

Trestle on Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills of the abandoned LIRR Rockaway Line - A golden opportunity awaits! Photos by Michael Perlman, Rego-Forest Preservation Council

The trestles of the conceived Queens (High) Line were designed by the well-known American Bridge Company in 1908, at least in Forest Hills and Rego Park, which was when the company was only 8 years old. The company also played a role in the development of the Chrysler Building in 1929 and the Henry Hudson Bridge in 1936. We need to give more recognition to our industrial history. This is a photo tour on Old NYC of the LIRR Rockaway Line through the Whitepot Junction & Underjump (Whitepot was Forest Hills pre-1906), 63rd Dr to Fleet St, Fleet St to Yellowstone Blvd, Yellowstone Blvd to Metropolitan Ave, and other stops to a full-speed ahead to the Rockaways : http://www.oldnyc.com/rockaway/contents/rockaway.html

A plaque reading "American Bridge Company of New York" with the date of manufacture, often goes unrecognized, as it lies in the corners of some of our neighborhood's trestles.

As a historic preservationist and conservationist, and as Chair of Rego-Forest Preservation Council serving Rego Park and Forest Hills, which are 2 communities the conceived Queens (High) Line would run through, I am willing to lend my expertise, and explore and further develop the visions of my colleagues and I.

- Michael Perlman

Tale of 2 of Forest Hills' Earliest Apartment Houses

2011-11-23T22:02:00.001-05:00

The historic Georgian Court, 109-20 Queens Blvd

The Alberta, a historic Tudor gem at 108-22 72nd Ave, which was originally 2 Roman Ave.

Two of Forest Hills' earliest apartment houses are the Georgian Court and the Alberta, which are situated in the business and residential district in the heart of our neighborhood.

It is the compilation of low-density developments with mainly Tudor and Colonial design which surround the Austin St and Queens Blvd thoroughfares, and which grant character to what was once referred to as "Forest Hills Village" or "The Village." Let's think twice before insensitively altering or demolishing the low-rise residential and commercial sites along and in between these thoroughfares. Preserving, restoring, and adaptively reusing our assemblage of buildings which began in 1906, will pay respect to the fine craftsmanship and vision of our remarkable developers, urban planners, architects, and business owners, who would once strive to make our streestscapes harmonious and distinctive from Anytown USA. It was a complementary extension to the aura of the Forest Hills Gardens, and still is in many ways, with the exception of a few tacky aluminum or stucco-covered buildings, and the brick and steel sliver McOffices that began to rise on 72nd Ave.

We extend our gratitude to Historian Ron Marzlock of the Queens Chronicle's I Have Often Walked column, for publishing the history of the Georgian Court and The Alberta on June 23rd & June 16, 2011 respectively, and establishing the need for their preservation and that of the greater neighborhood:

Georgian Court: An Innovator in Forest Hills

Georgian Court, located at 109-20 Queens Blvd, with tenniscourts to the left, May 1931.

Georgian Court holds the distinction of being the firstapartment building built on Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills. Itwas an innovation for its time for many other reasons too.

It was designed by Manhattan architect Louis I. Brooks of 63Madison Ave. and was the only apartment building built in ForestHills during the Great Depression, opening for occupancy on Oct. 1,1930.

All apartments were built with three or four rooms and wereconvertible to six- or seven-room units.

The building had two Otis elevators, individual incinerators foreach unit, refrigerators and gas ranges. There were no dumbwaiters.It was Forest Hills’ first apartment building with colored tile tomatch the fixtures in both the bathroom and kitchen, a welcomechange to the stark black and white of the 1920s. References wererequired for tenants to rent a three-room apartment for $100 orfour rooms for $140, expensive at the time.

Georgian Court’s most attractive selling point was that it wassituated next to beautiful tennis courts. However, that was shortlived. It was announced on Dec. 3, 1936 that a new church andrectory were to be built there for Our Lady Queen of Martyrs for$365,000. Steam shovels broke ground in May 1938, residents losttheir view and they endured the noise for the next year.

Today Georgian Court sits modestly on the boulevard, obscured byall the other structures towering over it. Compared to newerbuildings, residents are still very happy with its solidconstruction and love their 80-year-old building.

More photos of the Georgian Court, courtesy of Michael Perlman

A Forest Hills Gem: The Alberta, Built in ’23

A 1923 architect’s rendering of The Alberta, located at 2 Roman Ave,today’s 108-22 72 Ave in Forest Hills.

The oldest apartment building in Forest Hills outside of theGardens I have found to be The Alberta. John S. Myers of Manhattanwas the builder, and he named the structure after his mother.

In 1922 Myers hired architect Rudolf C.P. Boehler to design afour-story luxury walk-up building at what was then 2 Roman Ave.Boehler worked mainly in Manhattan, from 1920 to 1954, and this washis only project in Queens.

Through a beautiful marble covered vestibule you enter TheAlberta’s spacious, artistically treated reception room, from wheremarble stairs lead to the apartments.

One of the selling points was Myers’ willingness to arrange thecolor scheme in accordance with tenants’ wishes if leases weresigned before completion of the building. Inspection began in lateSeptember 1923 and it was ready for occupancy on Oct. 15. Expensivefor its time, The Alberta’s A and B line of four-room apartmentscost $145 a month, the three-room C and E line was $110 and thetwo-room D was $85.

Another selling point was that, as advertised, the apartmentshad a commanding view overlooking Queens Boulevard to Kew Gardensin one direction and Jackson Heights and Elmhurst in the other.

The building has been renumbered 108-22 72 Ave. but retains thename Alberta. After 88 years it is in pristine condition, andserious thought should be given to its preservation as buildingslike this will never be constructed again in Forest Hills. With thevery high value of the land alone, this beauty could be put indanger of destruction at some point.

More photos of the Alberta, Courtesy of Michael Perlman

In Memorium: Pat Dolan, Queens Community Leader

2011-11-16T16:16:00.001-05:00

Photo courtesy of Bates, Susana Freelancer & NY Daily News

I was shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of Patricia Dolan, the President of the Queens Civic Congress, and a long-dedicated borough-wide advocate. She was struck by a car on the evening of November 15th at the intersection of Hillside Ave & 198th St. She was 72.

Pat Dolan worked at the Queens Community House, and directed a para-transit system to aid senior citizens. She was the Chair of the Kew Gardens Hills Civic Association, and was a founder of the Flushing Meadows Corona Park Conservancy. One of her priorities was advocating for the protection of Queens neighborhoods from overdevelopment.

In a public statement, Queens BP Helen Marshall said, "Last night, the people of Queens lost a terrific and tireless leader who fought with knowledge and passion for libraries, senior citizens, parks, children, transportation safety, and every other issue that affects all of us. Pat dedicated her life to Queens. She was the epitome of a civic leader and the definition of a community leader."

City Council Speaker Christine Quinn told the Daily News, "I am deeply saddened to have learned of the tragic death of Patricia Dolan, one of our city's great civic and community leaders. Pat was extremely involved in the preservation of quality of life not just for Queens residents, but for all new Yorkers. She was interested in and dedicated to making the city a better place to live.”

She will be greatly missed. We must continue to work together to preserve and fulfill her legacy, benefit from her teachings, and make our borough and city a safer and more attractive place to live and visit.

Memorial services for PATRICIA DOLAN

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 7:00 PM

Schwartz Brothers - Forest Park Chapel
114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
(Queens Blvd. and 76th Road)

Press

Douglaston Patch, 11/16/11

Times Ledger, 11/16/11

NY Daily News, 11/16/11

NY Daily News, Article II, 11/16/11

Queens Chronicle, 11/16/11

Save Our 600 Trees At The Kew Gardens Interchange - Open Letter To NYS DOT

2011-11-13T17:42:00.001-05:00

Highway Plans Will Uproot 600 trees, 600 trees will fall, Queens Chronicle cover photo by Peter C Mastrosimone, Sept 29, 2011

Time may be running out to save 600 trees, which the NYS Dept of Transportation reportedly plans to cut down at the Kew Gardens Interchange, affecting Kew Gardens, Briarwood, & other Queens communities and beyond. Below is an open letter originally sent on 10/28 to Landscape ArchitectJim Lau of the NYS Department of Transportation, & now Landscape Architect Scott Levy. Please publicize & add your voice.

From: Michael Perlman
To: jlau@dot.state.ny.us

slevy@dot.state.ny.us
Subject: IMPORTANT: Kew Gardens Interchange Project - Creative Options To Rescue The 600 Trees Slated For Chopping

Dear Mr. Jim Lau & Mr. Scott Levy,
I understand you are the landscape architects of the NYS Dept of Transportation, who are assigned to the Kew Gardens Interchange Project. Many of my colleagues and I have read in local papers such as the Queens Chronicle, that 600 trees would be slated for the chopping block, as the roads undergo reconfiguration in Kew Gardens and Briarwood. I have some creative ideas, which I encourage you and the NYS Dept of Transportation to consider.

We feel there is no replacement for our beautiful, mature trees. The September 2010 tornado and the August 2011 hurricanes was responsible for the loss of about 4,000 trees cumulatively in our borough. Natural disasters are beyond our control, but proactively preserving our trees is within our control. The NY State DOT's plans to cut down 600 trees goes against my morals as a citizen and humanitarian. What may be "as of right" is not always right for the citizens. Trees convey life, beauty, are nature's pride, purify our air, keep the ground cool, are home to wildlife, and are historic to our Queens landscape.

Statistically speaking, the significant and very successful tree giveaway event that I coordinated in MacDonald Park in June 2011, as well as the tree plantings and giveaways occurring citywide through MillionTreesNYC, will not exceed the beauty and benefits posed by our mature trees in our lifetime. Applying measures towards the preservation and maintenance of our mature trees is most beneficial towards our community.

I urge the NYS DOT to creatively revise their Kew GardensInterchange plans, in order to preserve the endangered trees. The roads can be reconfigured alternatively. In sections where revision is not at all possible, then Plan B would be tohave the endangered trees moved by tree moving companies that specialize incommonly moving medium to larger size trees. Then they can be planted either inparks or on private property which lost a plethora of trees, and they could be named in honor of victims of 9/11,or in the memory of loved ones in a broader perspective. It could be financedby any combination of the State, Parks Dept, green organizations, banks, elected officials, and citizens. Some of the trees can also be given to the tree movingcompanies which have nurseries, and they can be sold.

Rather than New York State using the funds to chop down these trees, NYS should allocate those funds towards theirsalvation via transport. As long as our graceful and mature treesalong the Kew Gardens Interchange are saved, that is what bears the greatest significance. It would be a sad day or time period in our history to witness the mass destruction of our mature trees, so please work with us by exploring our ideas, and hopefully a compromise can be reached for all parties. Please contact me ASAP. Thank you for your consideration!

Sincerely,

Michael Perlman

Forest Hills, NY

Forest Hills Tennis Stadium May Have A Sports & Entertainment Future

2011-11-05T21:07:00.000-04:00

Proposed exterior perspective, Courtesy of Stadium Arts Alliance & rendered by John Ciardullo PC

Proposed site plan, Courtesy of Stadium Arts Alliance & rendered by John Ciardullo PC

At the legendary Forest Hills Tennis Stadium, the ball may be back in court. A non-profit known as the Stadium Arts Alliance is one of the contenders that submitted a proposal, in response to the West Side Tennis Club's Request For Proposals which ended on November 4th. The Stadium Arts Alliance would potentially lease the stadium and boost revenue for the WSTC. All particulars are not yet publicly known, but the US' 1st concrete tennis stadium would likely undergo restoration and conversion to accommodate tennis matches and hockey, with music and art festivals in the warmer months.

A known alteration would be the installation of stadium seating in place of the authentic wood and iron grandstands, and a reduction of seating from 14,000 to 9,700. The dilapidated barbed-wire fence surrounding the property would be replaced by a traditional iron fence with brick posts, and the perimeters would be landscaped. A new walkway with an overhead brick archway with pitched rooflines and letters which read "WSTC Stadium." Two replicas of the Stadium's blue & gold glazed terra-cotta shields bearing the WSTC logo and "1923" would be installed on the gateway. Historic architectural features including the archways, eagles, shields, flagpoles, and cornice lines would undergo restoration.

Besides the Stadium Arts Alliance's proposal, Cord Meyer proposed a new plan for condos, and other proposals also involved demolition for residential development. For a proposal to materialize, it would be subject to a review by the Stadium Committee, and in 2012, it would need to pass by a 2/3 vote of WSTC voting-eligible members, followed by approval of the Forest Hills Gardens Corporation.

The Stadium Arts Alliance is comprised of developer & President Kevin McCabe, and Chairman John Banks. Kevin McCabe is the founding partner and chief executive of the Aviator Sports & Events Center at Floyd Bennett Field, and John Banks is the VP of Government Relations for Con Ed, and a NY Public Library and MTA board member.

A seemingly greater path towards the stadium's restoration and creative reuse was discovered on November 3, 2011, when the WSTC elected Roland Meier as their new President over Kenneth Parker, who was reportedly anti-preservation. In August 2010, Cord Meyer Development proposed condos on the site of the stadium, and in protest, WSTC Tennis Committee Chair Roland Meier resigned from his position. Some neighborhood residents, countrywide preservationists, WSTC members, and tennis and music notables joined Rego-Forest Preservation Council in opposition to the condo plan. After the October 2010 vote, Kenneth Parker expressed his disappointment that the Cord Meyer plan was rejected by more than half of its voting-eligible WSTC members.

Chairman Michael Perlman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council explains, "Since the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium became endangered in July 2010 for typical condos, we have advocated for the historic stadium's preservation and creative-reuse as a mixed-use venue, to benefit the greater community and the WSTC. We will continue to hold public relations campaigns, conduct outreach, coordinate petition drives and letter campaigns, and meet with elected officials and other influential parties. We have maintained a dialogue with some tennis buffs, preservationists, some celebs, & President Obama's Advisory Board on Historic Preservation, which supports preservation and reuse. On behalf of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, I submitted a comprehensive city landmark bid in July 2010, and a bid for the State & National Register of Historic Places in summer 2011, in which the latter would likely generate more funding for restoring (and ultimately reusing) the stadium, if approved. We will support any plan that encompasses tennis, music and art festivals, and restores the iconic features of the iconic Stadium. There is always hope towards preserving and reusing our historic sites, as long as there is creativity, dedication, and proactive teamwork. Mixed-use creative revitalization and restoration for our country's 1st concrete tennis stadium, and home to firsts in the tennis and music world, will convey historic pride, create jobs, and be a boost to our quality of life, character, property values, and local business, as well as become a 21st-century family destination."

President Obama's Advisory Board on Historic Preservation admitted that the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission "irked its public duty," by not calendaring the stadium for a public hearing. Rego-Forest Preservation Council feels the LPC has a "double-standard" when it comes to Queens, since under the Landmarks Law's architectural and cultural provisions, the Stadium has the criteria for city landmarking, and it mentions nothing about a site's physical condition as a means for rejection. Sites in worse physical condition in Manhattan have been heard, landmarked, and restored. If it becomes a State & Federal landmark through NYS Historic Preservation Office (the Register), the West Side Tennis Club and any potential partner or owner can apply for federal tax credits, state grants, as well as other funds for repairing the stadium.

NY 1 News coverage, Nov 5, 2011:
http://www.ny1.com/content/top_stories/150250/new-proposal-aims-to-bring-sports-back-to-historic-queens-stadium

Michael Perlman's feature story for Untapped Cities offers a comprehensive illustrated history, and explains the community rewards for collaborating to save a rare piece of Americana:
http://newyork.untappedcities.com/2011/07/29/preservation-campaign-underway-for-america%E2%80%99s-tennis-stadium

The storied stadium provides dimension to the streetscape! Photo by Michael Perlman

View from the top, as the eagles have a commanding view of Forest Hills, Photo by Peter Dutton

Have a seat in the grandstands & visualize legendary tennis players & musicians, which once again can play at the stadium, Photo by Peter Dutton

MacDonald Park Meeting Calls For Proactive Approach By Our Volunteers To Restore Forest Hills' Historic Anchor

2011-10-15T03:00:00.001-04:00

Since the early 1930s, MacDonald Park with its Gerald MacDonald statue, has been an anchor of Forest Hills. However, in early August 2011, park-goers and passersby began to notice disturbing issues. Chair Michael Perlman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, submitted a 12-page photo survey to the NYC Dept of Parks, with copies to our elected officials: http://www.scribd.com/doc/62766462/Macdonald-Park-Maintenance-Problems

Since the survey submission, members of Rego-Forest Preservation Council began discussing the creation of a voluntary subcommittee which would engage in proactive strategies for maintaining, beautifying, and enhancing MacDonald Park. On Oct 2, 2011, members were grateful to hold a meeting in MacDonald Park with Parks Manager Rene Herrera, who serves the CB 6 vicinity, comprising of Forest Hills & Rego Park. Hassan King of Partnerships For Parks has also been very helpful towards our cause, and plans on meeting with us as well. The Parks Dept could always benefit through the role of volunteers, considering the city's budget, and also as a result of the progress of a public-private partnership.

Primary Topics of Discussion

1. Almost 10 trees that were planted in April 2011 at the One Thing That's Green event have perished prematurely. It may be attributed to the late July drought. Those trees will be replaced, since they are under warranty. Rego-Forest Preservation Council members suggested replacing the irrigation system which was dismantled during the Sept 2010 tornado, & Rene Herrera thought it would be a good idea for us to look into the possibility of acquiring a drip sprinkler system.

2. We discussed the possibility of a mature tree moving company to strengthen the integrity of our park trees, by engaging in methods of stabilizing them and pruning when necessary. Historically speaking, mature trees can be excavated and transplanted! There is no replacement for a mature tree, which fosters much beauty, shade, and purification of our air.

3. Rego-Forest Preservation Council's subcommittee will assign volunteers to help maintain the park by cleaning, watering, and planting bushes, flowers, and trees upon agreement per project. We will be on the lookout for organizations that can donate these plantings, so bald areas on the lawn and some unkempt bushes will be addressed, for example.

4. The centerpiece of MacDonald Park is the historic Gerald MacDonald statue. Its base contains text, but weathering has taken its toll, making it difficult to decipher the statement of dedication. Rego-Forest Preservation Council plans on nominating the statue and the park for the State & National Register of Historic Places. If the nomination is successful, it will commemorate the park, and open the door to federal tax credits and state-matching grants, among other potential incentives, and allow for the restoration of the statue and park over time.

5. A bench that went missing, which was documented in our August 2011 survey submission to the Parks Dept (above) has been restored almost immediately thereafter, and graffiti on the MacDonald Park plaque has been cleaned off.

Press To Date

1. NY1 News interview: Forest Hills Residents Want Parks Dept To Fix Up MacDonald Park

2. Queens Chronicle: Civic Group Seeks Partnership

3. Forum West, Dead Trees In MacDonald Park Worry Residents

4. Forest Hills Patch, The history of MacDonald Park, written by Michael Perlman:
http://foresthills.patch.com/articles/local-history-macdonald-park

We thank Rene Herrera, Parks Manager of CB 6, and the Parks Department for their willingness to work with us. We also thank Hassan King of Partnerships For Parks for his assistance and plans to meet with us in the near future.

If anyone is interested in joining our subcommittee to help maintain the park, and volunteer with and/or support Rego-Forest Preservation Council, please e-mail Michael Perlman at unlockthevault@hotmail.com

Facebook Groups: Please Take Action For S.O.S. (Save Our Stadium!) & Rego-Forest Preservation Council

2011-10-10T01:04:00.003-04:00

Facebook is upgrading all of its groups. Even some of the most successful Facebook Groups were not given the option to upgrade to date. For those who are members of the S.O.S. (Save Our Stadium!) group (which has 190 members currently), please visit the link below. When asked on top of the page if you want to remain in the group when Facebook upgrades it, please press YES. Then you won't have any interruption of your membership for the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Preservation cause: http://on.fb.me/SaveOurStadium

The Facebook Group for Rego-Forest Preservation Council has luckily been presented the option to upgrade months ago, & has made a smooth transition. Kudos to the 390 members. If you aren't already a member, please consider joining & supporting our historic preservation causes: http://on.fb.me/RegoForest

Please spread the word to ALL your neighbors & friends, and help preserve & enhance our community's historic character. Help our volunteer recruitment initiative as well. Thank you!

America's Tennis Stadium Feature Story in Untapped New York by Michael Perlman

2011-10-07T02:42:00.000-04:00

The storied stadium provides dimension to the streetscape! Photo by Michael Perlman

View from the top, as the eagles have a commanding view of Forest Hills, Photo by Peter Dutton

Have a seat in the grandstands & visualize legendary tennis players & musicians, which once again can play at the stadium, Photo by Peter Dutton

May the ball be in our court! Rego-Forest Preservation Council Chair Michael Perlman was presented with the opportunity to cover the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Cause for Untapped NY.

The feature story consists of a comprehensive illustrated history, and explains the potential for community rewards for collaborating to save a rare piece of Americana:

http://newyork.untappedcities.com/2011/07/29/preservation-campaign-underway-for-america%E2%80%99s-tennis-stadium/

About Untapped New York: Untapped is about discovering the city anew. The lens is photography, the writing is historical, architectural, witty and hip. We show you not only what is there, but also what once was. We take you to places rumored and places true, locales abandoned and avenues prosaic; but always—cool.

"Queens Blvd Big Sweep" Needs Volunteers on October 15th, 8:30 AM - 3 PM

2011-10-07T01:31:00.000-04:00

Want to dedicate a few hours of community service? Queens Boulevard Restoration Group & In Our Back Yard (IOBY.org) need volunteers to help clean the tree-lined medians of Queens Blvd in Forest Hills and Rego Park. Help restore the medians along Queens Blvd from 78th Ave to 63rd Dr, & make our community shine while helping the environment!

When? Saturday, October 15, 2011, 9:00 AM -3:00 PM. Meet at 8:30 AM

Where? Meet in MacDonald Park on Queens Blvd & 70th Rd, Forest Hills

Water, gloves, t-shirts, and lunch will be provided. Pitch in for as long as you want!

To sign up or for more information, please e-mail info@queensblvd.org or call (917) 558-3802. Please bring your friends, neighbors, family, & help spread the word.

Commemorate Arthur Szyk with Forest Hills Jewish Center & The Arthur Syzk Society on 9/25/11 at 12:30 PM - A Ceremony Fit For A Legend!

2011-09-19T23:31:00.000-04:00

Public Ceremony Marking 60^th Anniversary of Famous Artist's Death
to be Held at his Gravesite on Sunday, September 25, 2011 at 12:30 PM

The renowned Arthur Szyk's Aron Kodesh (Holy Ark) at Forest Hills Jewish Center. In the NewYork Press, Szyk stated “This is my first work for a temple,” which was also his first 3-D creation for a synagogue.Meant to symbolize the crown and breastplate of a Torah scroll, it is unique howTorah design elements can serve as an inspiration for a ‘larger than life’model. Architectural critics and historians consent that it is one ofthe most phenomenal 20^th century Judaic works of art. - Photo & explanation provided by Michael Perlman, Rego-Forest Preservation Council

Long Island, New York - World renowned artist and activist Arthur Szyk, who designed the magnificent Ark of the Forest Hills Jewish Center (FHJC) in the late 1940s, will be remembered during a graveside ceremony at New Montefiore cemetery on Long Island, New York, on Sunday, September 25 at 12:30PM. Rabbi Irvin Ungar, curator of The Arthur Szyk Society, will travel from California to lead the commemoration.

Arthur Szyk was born in Łódź, Poland in 1894 and immigrated to the United States in 1940. The foremost anti-Nazi artist in America during World War II, he was also a leading advocate for the rescue of European Jewry and the creation of the State of Israel. Sixty years after Szyk's death in New Canaan, Connecticut at the age of fifty-seven, this ceremony will pay tribute to the artist's memory and legacy. Readings will include passages from the FHJC founding Rabbi Ben Zion Bokser's moving 1951 eulogy, which will be interwoven with thoughts and reflections on Arthur Szyk as an artist and as a great man.

The Szyk gravesite is located within Block 7, Section 5, Row C of the New Montefiore Cemetery, Pinelawn, Long Island, Suffolk County, New York. The ceremony is free and open to the public.

Directions: Long Island Expressway to Exit 49 North, follow service road to traffic light. Turn left on to Pinelawn Road (Wellwood Avenue). Follow to cemetery on left. The New Montefiore Cemetery may be reached at 631-249-7000.

For more information about the legacy of Arthur Szyk, as well as information on the Arthur Szyk Society and Forest Hills Jewish Center, please visit:

http://szyk.org

facebook.com/arthurszyk

http://www.fhjc.org

Invite: Birth of Historic Preservation 9/20/11 at Museum of The City of NY - Special Discount to RFPC Blog Readers!

2011-09-19T20:50:00.001-04:00

You are invited to......

Preserving the Past: The Birth of Historic Preservation

Tuesday, September 20 at 6:30 PM

The burgeoning 19th- and 20th-century interest in Colonialstyles of art and architecture coincided with the emergence of the historicpreservation movement, whose earliest subjects were colonial sites, including Colonial Williamsburg, Mount Vernon, and the Powel House in Philadelphia.

* Why did earlypreservationists focus specifically on the nation’s colonial past?

* What were the ideological underpinnings of preservation?

Max Page,professor and author of several books, including The CreativeDestruction of Manhattan, 1900-1940 (University ofChicago Press, 1999); Franklin D. Vagnone,Executive Director of the Historic House Trust; and others explore preservationand the Colonial Revival to understand their complicated relationship.

Co-sponsored by the HistoricHouse Trust.

Reservations required: (917) 492-3395or e-mail programs@mcny.org

$6 museum members; $8 seniors andstudents; $12 non-members

$6 when you mention Rego-Forest Preservation Council

- Museum of The City of New York

1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street

New York, NY 10029

www.mcny.org

(212) 534-1672

On a related note, the birth of the NYC Landmarks Law began in 1965, when Mayor Robert Wagner signed it into being, in response to the public outcry when the classic Pennsylvania Station was demolished in 1963.

1910 photo courtesy of the Evening Telegraph Blog

NYC Trees Need Your Help - Any Sum Makes A Great Difference!

2011-09-13T03:02:00.000-04:00

A common picture of Hurricane Irene's devastation. Photo courtesy of MillionTrees NYC

When Hurricane Irene hit the eastern seaboard in late August 2011, it was responsible for the loss of over 2,000 trees, according to Million Trees NYC.

Backtracking, the tornado in Sept 2010 was responsible for at last 3,100 fallen trees in our borough, not to mention those damaged significantly. Our trees are an aesthetically & environmentally beneficial component, as well as historic component of all neighborhoods citywide. They become members of our extended family.

Fortunately, Million Trees NYC is the face behind an endeavor to raise funding for the replacement of the loss trees throughout NYC's 5 boroughs. Please consider donating to assist NYC street and park trees, or to assist tree planting on private property such as schools, and housing. This is a noble cause, so please take a few moments to also spread the word. Even a few dollars would be appreciated:

http://milliontreesnyc.org/html/donate/donate.shtml

One of the few remaining historic Elm trees in Central Queens, which survived the tornado but not the hurricane. It sustained a large collapsed limb, which damaged the trunk. Sadly, this 7-story graceful Elm tree, which was at least 60 years old & was loved by many local residents, was taken down within days. All that remains is barely a stump on the corner of the Howard Apts on 66th Rd off the north side of Queens Blvd. Perhaps routine pruning would have paid off, & the tree would have still been around today. Photo by Michael Perlman, Rego-Forest Preservation Council.

The purple oasis of Cherry Plum trees was compromised at Parker Towers along Queens Blvd in Forest Hills. Let's hope these trees will be resurrected. Photo by Michael Perlman, Rego-Forest Preservation Council

A once bold Maple tree, which provided much beauty & shade in Forest Hills' Federoff Triangle falls. Photo by Michael Perlman, Rego-Forest Preservation Council.

Forest Hills' historic MacDonald Park was struck again, after losing around 70 trees during last year's tornado. This tree was likely planted by volunteers when MacDonald Park received some upgrades in the 1980s. A tree we will miss. Photo by Michael Perlman, Rego-Forest Preservation Council.

September 11, 2011 - We Are Stronger Than Ever!

2011-09-11T04:39:00.003-04:00

We will always remember our heroes, our survivors, our victims, and all families and friends of September 11th.

It is hard to believe it has been 10 years. I remember waking up, and witnessing the unbelievable on TV, along with my family. We were in denial, not knowing what may be the next target. First the Twin Towers and then the Pentagon, not to mention all those who perished as the planes crashed, and the hero who saved the White House. As we experienced the largest attack in American history, it showed how caring and brave Americans are. Under crisis, we unconsciously and consciously looked out for each other. I remember the fire crews, police, and the Port Authority who rushed to the Towers to save who they can. The heroes inside the Twin Towers became one family, helping each other flee in every way possible.

Mayor Giuliani coordinated the response of various city departments, while organizing the support of state and federal authorities for the World Trade Center site. Within days, stories of the rescue and those who perished emerged. The rescue mission was ongoing between the rubble. Candlelight vigils filled thoroughfares.On September 23, 2001, the World Trade Center Memorial Service was held at Yankee Stadium.

Our Twin Towers fell, but our courage and unity never sunk with it.

This postcard is captioned "April 4, 1973 - Sept 11, 2001"

This pre-9/11 view reads "Long live liberty!" We must keep strong, even when they attempt to reduce our country and its people.

On Thurs, Dec 11, 2008, the NY Daily News reported "The survivors' staircase, the 37 concrete steps that scores of people raced down to flee the World Trade Center attacks, was moved Thursday for the final time. A massive yellow crane hoisted the 22-foot-tall staircase into the air and placed it 150 feet away at the entrance to the future Sept. 11 museum." According to SaveTheStairway.org, "The Stairway stands as a uniquely important historical artifact, and a dramatic symbol of hope and survival." The NY Landmarks Conservancy played a great role in the rescue of this artifact: http://www.nylandmarks.org/programs_services/technical_assistance/projects/preserving_the_world_trade_center_site

Survivors' Staircase, WTC, Courtesy of SaveTheStairway.org

On April 26, 2011, ABC News announced the 9/11 Memorial is set to open on the 10th anniversary of the attacks: http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local/new_york&id=8095409

Superb coverage with 9/11/01 photos on Drake's Edge of The City Blog: http://edgeofthecityblog.blogspot.com/2011/09/remembering-911.html

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Trade_Center_site

Google News thread on September 11, 2011 memorials: 9/11/11

UNITED WE STAND!

9/14 INVITE: Colonial Revival in Extremis at the Museum of The City of NY - Rego-Forest Preservation Council Discount

2011-09-10T20:17:00.001-04:00

You are invited to a special event at the Museum of The City of New York.........

Wednesday, September 14, 2011 at 6:30 PM

Cherry Trees and Giant Porticos: Colonial Revival in Extremis

Colonial Revival is inmany ways America’s national style, with incarnations ranging from architectureto painting, music, sculpture, furniture, gardens, and literature. Aswith many nationalist expressions, it can at times become exaggerated,humorous, and perhaps even weird.

Richard Guy Wilson,occupant of the Commonwealth Professor’s Chair in Architectural History at the University of Virginia,will examine some of the ways houses such as Washington’sMount Vernonand portraits of the founding fathers, have been utilized for a variety ofpurposes, sometimes with strange results.

Reservations required: (917) 492-3395or e-mail programs@mcny.org

$6 museum members; $8 seniors andstudents; $12 non-members

$6 when you mention the Rego-Forest Preservation Council
E-mail Chair Michael Perlman at unlockthevault@hotmail.com with comments or questions.

On a related note, the American Style exhibition began June 14th & will end on Nov 6, 2011. Backtracking, the Colonial Revival Then & Now lecture and discussion took place on July 19th, and was well-attended.

http://www.nytimes.com/2011/06/14/arts/design/american-style-at-the-museum-of-the-city-of-new-york.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=american%20style&st=cse.

Museum of the City of New York

1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street

New York, NY 10029
www.mcny.org

(212) 534-1672

9/12/11 Event: Historic Building Survey Basics, Monday Morning Coffee Talk at Neighborhood Preservation Center

2011-09-10T18:19:00.001-04:00

~Monday Morning Coffee Talk~

Historic Building Survey Basics

September 12, 2011 at 8:30 AM

The Neighborhood Preservation Center (232 East 11th Street, NYC) will host aFree and Open to the Public event.

The most frequently asked question by community activists is “How do I know if my neighborhood could be a historic district?" It all starts with an architectural survey. Preservation consultant and HDC Vice-President Gregory Dietrich will explain the basics of identifying and evaluating historic properties, as a first step toward neighborhood preservation. This program is intended for community members who are interested in defining objectives, identifying historic assets, and devising an effective strategy to preserve their neighborhood's distinct sense of place.

E-mail sromanoski at hdc dot org (in proper e-mail format) to reserve a space.

HURRICANE IRENE ADVICE

2011-08-26T17:42:00.000-04:00

To all New Yorkers: Please check for information related to Hurricane Irene on the Office of Emergency Management website. Let's pray everyone will be safe, & the hurricane will "take a swim & drown!"

NYC Office of Emergency Management

http://www.facebook.com/NYCemergencymanagement?sk=wall

NYC OEM plans for and responds to emergencies in New York City. For more info, visit http://www.nyc.gov/oem For emergency assistance, call 911. For service requests, call 311.

This is an important e-mail from Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi:

Take steps to prepare for Hurricane Irene‏

Dear Neighbor:

By now, it is likely that you have received news that New York City may be hit by Hurricane Irene this weekend, likely Saturday evening into Sunday. While this hurricane has the capacity to cause a significant amount of damage, there are steps you can take to ensure that your homes and loved ones are protected.

The first step you should take in preparing is finding out if you live in an evacuation zone. Click here to see evacuation zones throughout New York City. If you live in one of these zones, when instructed, you should follow these evacuation instructions.

I am strongly urging residents in our communities to take every precaution possible and prepare for the worst-case scenario. Please gather ample amounts of water, non-perishable food, and batteries for flashlights. Secure loose items on your property, consider boarding up vulnerable windows, and bring in any trash lying on your curbs. Do the best you can to prepare for up to 2 weeks of power and utility outages. To report outages to Con Edison, have your account number ready and call 1-800-75-CONED (1-800-752-6633). You can keep up to date on the city’s storm monitoring and response by clicking here or by calling 311. In case of a life threatening emergency, always call 911.

Please review the following links:

You can view updates from the New York City Office of Emergency Management by clicking here.
The Red Cross has put together a Hurricane Safety Checklist, available in English, Spanish and Chinese.

If the storm hits, the greatest impact is expected to be felt on Sunday. Please use this time to prepare for the storm by stocking up on resources and reviewing evacuation plans if they apply to your neighborhood. As always, if you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911.

-Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi
28 A.D.

More important tips:

* Examine the Office of Emergency Management link above, & see if you are required to evacuate.
* Stock up on food & water for at least 3 days' supply
* Buy flashlights
* Buy batteries & battery-powered radios (in case of power outages)
* Steer clear of windows & consider buying plywood to board them up
* Take all street furniture indoors, since objects can fly & be fatal
* Brace trees
* Contact family, friends, & neighbors proactively to ensure their safety, & SPREAD THE WORD!

Measuring the storm, The Saffir-Simpson Scale (Credit: CBS & AP)

Forest Hills Post Office History Recognized in Queens Chronicle

2011-08-05T02:13:00.000-04:00

The Forest Hills post office under construction in September 1938 and completed in 1940. The topless female sculpture above the door was criticized at the time. The building behind the facility is labeled “Forest Hills Fireproof Storage.” Courtesy of Ron Marzlock, Queens Chronicle Historian

Forest Hills Post Office in September 1938 - Courtesy of Ron Marzlock, Queens Chronicle Historian

2007 photo courtesy of Greg Godfrey

The Forest Hills Post Office is currently the only building in Forest Hills on the State & National Register of Historic Places, making it eligible for federal tax credits and state-matching grants for preservation-friendly upgrades & restoration work. Rego-Forest Preservation Council is currently documenting the Forest Hills Post Office's history and authentic features for a good cause, so imagine how we felt when we discovered the building in the 8/4 edition of the Queens Chronicle's "I Have Often Walked" column, written by Historian Ron Marzlock:

Queens Chronicle: A Post Office Deemed Risque

In the 1930s, most post offices in Queens were little candy store-type buildings housing only a few letter carrier routes in a leased building.

In June 1936, the Emergency Construction Program Act was passed. Politically strong Forest Hills was able to arrange the construction of a federal building to house a post office, at 106-28 Queens Blvd.

The new building was to be a showpiece of the area, topped off with a sculpture called “The Spirit of Communication.” The Art Deco-style work, a bare-breasted woman holding a clock and dove, was denounced by conservative 1938 Forest Hills as bad art in bad taste. But sculptor Sten Jacobson’s creation was valued at more than $150,000 in 1990, and is protected today and cared for by the General Services Administration.

Most other buildings of the era put up by the Works Progress Administration got a painting for artwork. Forest Hills got real sculpture. The other fortunate areas of Queens to secure WPA buildings for a post office were Jackson Heights, Woodhaven, Far Rockaway and Flushing. All of them are protected by landmark status.

Today, the fine 71-year-old structure facing MacDonald Park is dwarfed by the highly-concentrated apartment houses which have since engulfed so much of Forest Hills. At least it’s not one of the five post offices in Queens the United States Postal Service is considering closing.

"The Spirit of Communication" adorns the terra-cotta facade. Recent photos courtesy of Michael Perlman, Chair of Rego-Forest Preservation Council


Polished brass doors bear Art Deco handles

The Forest Hills Post Office made the grade on the 10th annual walking tour of Downtown Forest Hills in September 2010 by Historian Jeff Gottlieb, President of the Central Queens Historical Association.

Admiring the verticals and cubism of an International Style/Art Moderne Federal building. Most other post offices designed in the 1930s & prior were of (Georgian) Colonial design in Queens. This design would be found in a 1939 World's Fair pavilion, but this predated it! A patriotic mark is made upon Queens Boulevard!

WSTC Issues Request For Proposals For Storied Forest Hills Tennis Stadium - RFPC Seeks Preservation-Friendly Partners For WSTC

2011-08-05T00:56:00.000-04:00

On 8/1/11, the West Side Tennis Club issued a Request For Proposals, appealing to developers on potential ideas for redevelopment of our iconic Forest Hills Tennis Stadium. Since Cord Meyer's condo plan was rejected in Oct 2010 by a majority of voting-eligible members, there is now a greater opportunity to preserve & reuse the stadium. Nevertheless, we learned that Cord Meyer Development is once again interested in the stadium and plans to respondto the Request For Proposals. A tour for potential suitors will be on August 15th.

It is the hope of Rego-Forest Preservation Council and citizens alike, that Cord Meyer will not submit any proposal to alter or demolish our internationally-recognized stadium. Not only would that obliterate a site of historic firsts, but crush an opportunity to landmark, restore, and creatively reuse it as a mixed-use 21st century venue that could be use for tennis, subdued concerts, music & art festivals, charity events, weddings, graduations, school trips, etc. We need to safeguard historic character, boost jobs, and help our local business corridors, and not hinder it. Yes to a destination... No to typical condos. The Stadium Committee of the WSTC will review new proposals in early Oct 2011.

On August 3rd, Journalist Dawn Wotapka of the Wall Street Journal covered this issue, which features an interview with Chairman Michael Perlman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council:

http://blogs.wsj.com/metropolis/2011/08/03/forest-hills-tennis-stadium-still-seeking-savior/

Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Petition Seeking Landmarking & Restoration

2011-07-22T02:34:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Michael Perlman

Please sign, post a comment, & circulate the petition to landmark & restore the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium & Clubhouse of the West Side Tennis Club:

http://www.petitiononline.com/FHtennis/petition.html

Courtesy of Peter Dutton

Courtesy of Pat Lannan

PETITION TEXT

To: NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, NY State Historic Preservation Office, Councilmember, Congressmember, Mayor, State Senator, Assemblymember, Queens Borough President, Public Advocate (elected official at time of petition serving Forest Hills, NY)

The Forest Hills Tennis Stadium & Clubhouse of the West Side Tennis Club (1 Tennis Place, Forest Hills, NY) has architectural, cultural, and historical significance, and it is of the utmost to designate this complex, inclusive of grounds and interiors, as an official Landmark on city, state, & federal levels. In addition to preserving and commemorating an iconic site for future generations, landmarking will open the door to funding (i.e. grants and tax credits) for a restoration and historically-sensitive upgrades. Mixed-use creative revitalization of the Stadium would hold great potential for the economic benefit of the West Side Tennis Club and greater community, and a 21st century cultural destination would enhance our quality of life.

HISTORY

The Forest Hills Tennis Stadium is an American and International icon, situated in the earliest planned garden community countrywide, the Forest Hills Gardens. The Stadium embodies firsts in tennis, music, architectural, and social history, and was referred to as the "World Capital of Tennis." Designed by award-winning public building architect Kenneth M. Murchison, and built by The Foundation Co. in 1923, it was the first concrete tennis stadium in the U.S. The Stadium features eagles, terra-cotta shields bearing the West Side Tennis Club logo, archways, simplified cornice detail, flagpoles, authentic grandstands seating 14,000, etc. The Stadium was the 1st home of the US Open (through 1978), & was also home to singles championships, the Davis Cup, Wightman Cup, etc. It hosted tennis greats such as Bill Tilden, Helen Jacobs, Billie Jean King, Roger Federer, and Arthur Ashe & Althea Gibson who broke the racial color barrier. The Stadium also played cinematic roles, as it featured key scenes of Alfred Hitchcock's "Strangers On A Train." The annual Forest Hills Music Festival and concerts took ground in the late 1950s - late 1990s, featuring the likes of The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross, The Monkees, The Who, Johnny Mathis, Barbra Streisand, Simon & Garfunkel, Trini Lopez, Peter, Paul, & Mary, etc. The Stadium & Clubhouse and its history has long-influenced our cultural possessions and media, including records & CDs, films, maps, the Forest Hills tennis racquet, clothing, postcards, (news) photos, videos, news, matchcovers, ads, etc. The Tudor-style Clubhouse dates to 1913, and was designed by famed architect Grosvenor Atterbury & John Almay Tompkins. The West Side Tennis Club was established in 1892, & first operated courts on Manhattan's Upper West Side. The West Side Tennis Club helped establish the sport of tennis in the US. Forest Hills is known for tennis, and tennis helped place Forest Hills on the map. In MIT's Nov. 1922 "The Technology Review," an ad referred to the stadium as "America's Tennis Stadium," and history has proven how it was built for the greater public.

STATUS

On May 3, 2011, local to international landmark supporters of the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium received a letter from the Landmarks Preservation Commission stating that "after a careful review of the current condition and architectural integrity of the above-referenced property, a senior staff committee of the Landmarks Preservation Commission found that the building does have some historic significance related to cultural and historic events that have taken place at the site, and does retain intact architectural features. At this time, however, the property will not be recommended to the full Commission for further consideration as an individual New York City landmark. The reason not to recommend further consideration is due to the deteriorated state of the building’s architectural features."

Rego-Forest Preservation Council feels that for the Landmarks Preservation Commission to not calendar a public hearing for the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium, is a neglect of public duty and of the architectural & cultural provisions of the Landmarks Law. We believe the Landmarks Law does NOT reference a site's condition as a means for rejecting a public hearing. Despite, there have been buildings in other boroughs needing major repairs and in worse condition, which have been calendared, heard, and landmarked, and have been restored or are now undergoing restoration. Some case studies are The Windermere, West Park Presbyterian Church, & Coignet Stone Co. This represents a double standard.

On behalf of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Chairman Michael Perlman launched a grassroots campaign on July 23, 2010 by submitting a Request For Evaluation form with 50 pages of primary sources to the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, recommending the Stadium, Clubhouse, grounds, & interiors for NYC Landmark status. Perlman also met with local politicians. A landmark letter campaign and offline petition drive to the LPC & elected officials was launched, & was greatly supported by local to international residents & organizations. On October 7, 2010, Cord Meyer Development's proposal to build condos and demolish the majority of the stadium was rejected by West Side Tennis Club members, after not receiving a 2/3 vote to approve a sale.

Mixed-use creative revitalization of the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium (as opposed to condos) would most likely yield a greater economic return in the long-run, and could feature tennis matches, concerts, weddings, graduations, exhibits, school trips, charity events, music and art festivals, etc. The Stadium has the potential to be a 21st-century family destination, bring Queens & citywide communities closer together, boost tourism, convey historic pride, educate our children, help local businesses through tough economic times, and be an incentive for newer businesses i.e. on the Austin St corridor. Without landmarking, restoration, and creative reuse, it could be demolished, and would be a preservation travesty along the lines of Pennsylvania Station's historic loss.

FLICKR PHOTOS: http://bit.ly/ForestHillsTennisStadium
BLOG: http://regoforestpreservation.blogspot.com
FACEBOOK GROUP, "S.O.S. (Save Our Stadium!)" http://on.fb.me/SaveOurStadium

All historic photos courtesy of Michael Perlman

LIRR Destroys Forest Hills Trees on June 18th & Pledges To Alter More on July 5, 2011 - CALL TO ACTION!

2011-06-29T22:08:00.005-04:00

At the rate of the LIRR decimating mature, healthy, and stable trees in Forest Hills, which have not fallen since their planting a century ago, it may EXCEED the rate of the tornado's destruction upon our trees last September.

Ever wonder why some people go for the easy way out, and how some organizations which supposed to provide beneficial services to their communities turn their back? In this case, rather than pruning a tree to promote healthy growth, the Long Island Railroad figures just chop down our trees!

On the quiet Saturday morning of June 18th, the LIRR commissioned the ironically-titled Looks Great Services ("LI's Favorite Tree Care Co"), & rudely awakened the Forest Hills Gardens, decimating a healthy, historic Oak tree that was a monumental pillar for 100+ years. This came with just a couple of days prior notice, and after Congressman Weiner's resignation, since it was Congressman Weiner who worked with residents to try curbing the LIRR's approach. This follows in the footsteps of the countless trees the LIRR decimated in 2007. All that now remains is a massive stump, which is apparently not leaning towards the tracks, and is believed to be a lame excuse by the LIRR.

True that the trees are owned by the LIRR, but the larger picture is their membership in the natural environment, and by the people who admire their historic beauty and realize their means of purifying air and buffering noise from accelerating trains.

In the past, the LIRR said they would prune our trees, but instead chopped them down. Let's hope history won't repeat itself on July 5, 2011 between Ascan Ave & Station Square, when a LIRR-commissioned company returns to assess those century-old, graceful trees. After the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance & Rego-Forest Preservation Council led a highly successful Tree Giveaway Event in MacDonald Park on June 12th, in response to the Sept 16th tornado, the LIRR evidently defeated the purpose.

We The People urgently request a meeting and a public hearing from the LIRR, and want the LIRR and its commissioned companies to further halt tree destruction. New trees must be planted in place of those that prematurely perished, although there is no replacement for a mature tree. Our politicians need to join us in this movement.

- Michael Perlman, Chair of Rego-Forest Preservation Council

CALL & WRITE OUR POLITICIANS, CB, & FH GARDENS CORP ASAP:

1. Councilmember Karen Koslowitz: (718) 544-8800, koslowitz@council.nyc.gov, glavine@council.nyc.gov
2. The office of former Congressman Weiner: (718) 520-9001, weiner@mail.house.gov
3. Borough President Helen Marshall: (718) 286-3000, info@queensbp.org, bgrodenchik@queensbp.org, arosa@queensbp.org
4. Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi: (718) 263-5595, hevesia@assembly.state.ny.us, persaudm@assembly.state.ny.us
5. Senator Toby A. Stavisky: (718) 445-0004, stavisky@senate.state.ny.us
6. Public Advocate Bill deBlasio: (212) 669-7200, deblasio@pubadvocate.nyc.gov, ecanfield@pubadvocate.nyc.gov
7. Community Board 6, District Manager Frank Gulluscio: (718) 263-9250, cb6q@nyc.rr.com
8. Forest Hills Gardens Corporation: (718) 268-2420, fhgcemail@aol.com
9. Carbon copy all letters with an update on phone calls: unlockthevault@hotmail.com

This is a letter sent to local newspapers prior to the June 18th tree chopping, which was also sent to this blog:

LOSING DAVID

To The Editor:

In the aftermath of the Anthony Weiner controversy, his constituents are left without their David to battle the LIRR goliath. I learned from a work crew yesterday morning that the LIRR would be coming this Saturday to cut down yet another 100-year-old hardwood tree on their property adjacent to Forest Hills Station Square and across from the Tennis View Apartments.

After they clear cut most of the area back in 2007 and repeated efforts to have them replant the area were made, we are still left with an embankment denuded and not one inch of progress with any plan to restore the area.

Congressman Weiner had championed the cause on our behalf and was instrumental in getting the LIRR to use more discretion in the blowing of train horns as the trains passed through Forest Hills station. His office had been working to secure funding to rebuild the wall that the LIRR removed and replant the trees they cut down.

But it seems that in the power vacuum created by the scandal, the LIRR after four years has decided with only three days notice to the community that they are cutting down another old growth hardwood tree that towers above the surrounding neighborhood, providing shade to the street and buildings and a pleasant vista to the eye.

In related stories, the LIRR planted evergreens to replace the trees they removed around a Flushing station and Metro North after clear cutting along their branches in northern Queens agreed to pay $460,000 to replant those areas. So why is the LIRR so reticent to agree to make good on a promise to replant here in Forest Hills?

It seems strangely ironic that there is an encampment of media one block away waiting to pounce on the Congressman should he appear but a real human interest story that shows why his constituents are not overwhelmingly in favor of his resignation unfolds down the block and within ear shot of the chainsaws to come.

Russ Gundlach,
Forest Hills

PRESS COVERAGE - Response to the June 18th travesty

1. Forum West, Forest Hills Residents Slam LIRR For Tree Removal, June 23, 2011
2. Forest Hills Times/Queens Ledger series, Forest Hills Residents Still Frustrated With LIRR Actions, June 22, 2011
3. Forest Hills Patch, Residents Decry Loss of Century-Old Oak on LIRR Embankment, June 21, 2011

PRESS COVERAGE - In anticipation of LIRR's claimed "tree-trimming" on July 5, 2011

1. Forest Hills Patch, Gardens Residents Push LIRR To Restore Embankment Treeline, June 29, 2011

"Colonial Revival: Then & Now" lecture & discussion at the Museum of the City of New York, July 19 at 6:30 PM AND "American Style: Colonial Revival and the Modern Metropolis" exhibition though Nov 6, 2011

2011-06-29T17:13:00.002-04:00

Howard Johnson’s Restaurant, Queens Boulevard, Rego Park, New York. Joseph G. Morgan, with New York World’s Fair of 1939-40 Beyond. Courtesy of the Queens Chamber of Commerce.

Emerging more than a century ago, Colonial Revival architecture continues to influence present-day architecture and design. Join leading New York City architects Gil Schafer and Peter Pennoyer for an illustrated lecture and discussion as they explore historic examples of the Colonial Revival style and the lessons to be learned from them today. Mr. Schafer’s work is featured in the exhibition The American Style: Colonial Revival and the Modern Metropolis, which was designed by Peter Pennoyer Architects. Click here to read a 6/14/11 exhibition review by the NY Times, titled National Design That's Hidden In Plan Sight.

"Colonial Revival: Then and Now" will take place on Tuesday, July 19th at 6:30 PM

Reservations required: (917) 492-3395 or e-mail programs@mcny.org

$6 museum members; $8 seniors and students; $12 non-members

$6 when you mention the Rego-Forest Preservation Council
To qualify for the RFPC discount, please e-mail Michael Perlman at unlockthevault@hotmail.com

It is important to note that the American Style exhibition runs from June 14 - Nov 6, 2011, but Colonial Revival Then & Now lecture and discussion will only take place on July 19 at 6:30 PM.

Museum of the City of New York

1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street

New York, NY 10029
www.mcny.org

(212) 534-1672

Howard Johnson’s Restaurant, Northern Boulevard, Queens, New York, 1939. Photograph by the Wurts Brothers Company. Courtesy of the Museum of the City of New York.

American Style exhibition, Courtesy of Museum of the City of New York

Residential Revivalism: Anne Morgan House, Sutton Place between E 57th & 58th Sts, Manhattan, Photo by Berenice Abbott, Courtesy of Museum of the City of New York

American Style exhibition, Courtesy of the Museum of the City of New York

American Style exhibition, 116 East 55th St, NYC, Photo by Wurts Bros, NY, Courtesy of the Museum of the City of New York

Daniel Eldridge House Landmarking Testimony By Queens Preservation Council

2011-06-28T18:24:00.070-04:00

Daniel Eldridge House, Photo by Landmarks Preservation Commission

As a board member of Queens Preservation Council, I represent Rego-Forest Preservation Council. We endorse the below testimony by QPC Chair Mitchell Grubler. We urge the Landmarks Preservation Commission to landmark the circa 1867 Daniel Eldridge House, 87-61 111th St, a rare survivor in Richmond Hill and for Queens at large, and we are grateful for the June 28, 2011 public hearing:

As Chairman, I am speaking today on behalf of the Queens Preservation Council, a consortium of historical societies, civic and neighborhood groups that advocate for the protection and preservation of traditional neighborhood character.

The Queens Preservation Council is pleased to see the Landmarks Preservation Commission considering a house in Richmond Hill, one of Queens' most historical communities, yet sorely lacking in Landmark protections. Although the community boasts many historical houses of significance, the Daniel Eldridge House is an extremely rare surviving example of the mid-19th century Italianate style. In addition to its scale and form, the four ornate bracketed oriel windows, bracketed door hood and low-pitched roof with prominent cupola together make it architecturally impressive.

Daniel Eldridge of the infamous Tweed Ring, purchased the land from Charles Paulson for $600 in 1867, and had the 40' by 60' house built. A clerk in the Water Department, he was arrested on the property and charged with embezzlement. The story goes that after the hearing, the police were on their way to arrest him, and with no place left to hide, he simply sat up in the cupola and watched with binoculars as they came to arrest him.

The Queens Preservation Council, in memory of the indefatigable champion of Richmond Hill, Nancy Cataldi, urges the Landmarks Preservation Commission to continue to focus its attention on this historical community, and do more designations in the near future.

- Testimony delivered by Mitchell Grubler, Chair of Queens Preservation Council on June 28, 2011. Endorsed by Rego-Forest Preservation Council & posted online by RFPC Chair Michael Perlman.

Joseph B. Hellmann Park Would Honor A Community Leader & Friend

2011-06-24T02:33:00.000-04:00

This is a letter to CB 11's District Manager Susan Seinfeld, in memory of Joseph Hellmann, a community leader and a dear friend to many. Since this letter, CB 11 has voted on June 6th to rename parkland, Joseph B. Hellmann Park. Susan Seinfeld has told the Times Ledger "The plan was approved and awaits funding." Final approval is needed from the Parks Dept. This letter has since been published in the Queens Chronicle:

May 30, 2011

Dear Ms. Seinfeld & Community Board 11 Colleagues,

I am writing on behalf of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, which advocates for historic preservation and commemorates the history of Rego Park and Forest Hills, while acknowledging and safeguarding the greater picture of Queens. We strongly endorse a proposal to name the parkland at 243^rd Street and Douglaston Parkway in honor of our dear friend, Joseph Hellmann. Joseph was persistent in his fight to defeat a proposed apartment house, which would have occupied the lot on Douglaston Parkway, and was victorious in achieving his vision of having the site transformed into parkland. In a city that has been increasingly overdeveloped in recent years, this was one of Joseph’s many gifts to society. Imagine how fitting it will be for park-goers, passersby, and many of his friends, as well as future generations, to step into parkland commemorating his legacy.

On May 28, 2010, we were shocked and saddened to hear about his passing. He was a friend of my colleagues and I, and a friend of all of Queens. He will always be remembered as a very caring, amiable, intelligent, and creative individual. Joseph Hellmann was a well-respected and accomplished member of the Queens Preservation Council, the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance, a trustee of the Queens Historical Society, historian of the Douglaston-Little Neck Historical Society, a member of Community Board 11, and secretary of the Douglaston Civic Association. He was the recipient of the 2004 Van Zandt Award for community service. For three decades, he was an environmental engineer for the private sector.

I have known Joseph since I began attending Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance meetings in spring 2006 (today I am the Queens VP). At the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance and Queens Preservation Council meetings we attended together, I admired how he advocated for historic preservation; always searching for wise solutions to assist his colleagues and friends, and never abandoning hope in assisting our communities when facing some ruthless developers. He was the type of person you can truly talk to; a good listener and advice-giver.

In 2010, he continued doing what he loved, despite his brave battle with cancer and a hip fracture. I always respected his dedication and optimism, and particularly when he attended his last meetings as his health declined. My time knowing him was rather short in comparison to many of my colleagues, but I am thankful for his imprint upon that period of time. It is important to be grateful for what we have. As we advocate for preservation, we are strengthened through his memory and teachings. May we always cherish a true friend who made a difference in our lives.

We encourage CB 11 and all enthusiasts to preserve and build upon his legacy. Naming Old Oak Pond Addition in his memory would be an everlasting tribute. Thank you for your consideration!

Sincerely,

Michael Perlman

Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Chair

unlockthevault@hotmail.com

6/12/11 Tree Giveaway Is A Success - Greenery Restored Borough-Wide!

2011-06-20T02:52:00.002-04:00

One week breezed right by, and Forest Hills, Rego Park, and other communities in Queens and beyond, became a bit greener as a result of the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance Tree Giveaway Event on Sunday, June 12th from 1 PM - 3 PM, which included the members of Rego-Forest Preservation Council. It was a preservation event for the records!

Nearly 150 people, including homeowners, property managers, and supers, lined up in historic MacDonald Park on 70th Ave & Queens Blvd (circle), and the spirit of Gerald MacDonald, which prevails in the park's centerpiece statue, took great pride in the enthusiasm of tree adoptees. The earliest adoptees began lining up around 10 AM, hoping for their first chance of adopting either a Blackgum tree or 1 of 2 varieties of Cherry, by completing a tree adoption agreement. In total, 100 trees were donated, but many people had to be wait-listed for a potential future 4BNPA tree giveaway event. The trees were approximately 7 - 8 ft, were potted, and weighed 30 lbs. All trees have since been planted on private property.

Michael Perlman, Chairman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council & Queens VP of the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance began coordinating the event shortly after last September's tornado, by sending a proposal to the NY Restoration Project. Volunteers from 4BNPA and Rego-Forest Preservation Council joined forces. Forest Hills Jewish Center was the holding site for the trees prior to the event, and Key Food loaned load luggers to help transfer trees to MacDonald Park.

Steve Goodman, a board member of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, designed and presented certificates to tree adoptees, naming each tree on the basis of local "landmarks," notable residents, and historic street names. Tree names included the Trylon Theater, Hollywood Lanes, Roman (Roman Ave which is now 72nd Ave), Colonial (Colonial Ave, now 110th St), Helen Keller, Fred Silverman, Margaret Olivia Slocum Sage, etc.

Students of the Queens Community House Beacon Program designed a canvas depicting 2 varieties of Cherry tree. They also incorporated a poem on their reaction to the tornado, and how they felt after planting trees to restore MacDonald Park at the April 9th volunteer tree planting event, One Thing That's Green.

Michael Perlman explains, "It was inspirational to see the smiles on the faces of tree adoptees, and restore our historic tree canopy, especially since the 9/16/10 macroburst accounted for an approximate 3,113 fallen trees in Queens alone, while affecting sections of Brooklyn and Staten Island. Hopefully, no more mature trees will be cut down, and hopefully, there will be no more tornadoes. We owe gratitude to all who volunteered, and to those who adopted trees! Our organization has already began visualizing a future tree giveaway event, so stay tuned."

The tree giveaway event was made possible by the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance in partnership with New York Restoration Project and MillionTreesNYC (MTNYC), and through the generous support of Put Down Roots tree giveaway sponsor JetBlue, and MTNYC lead sponsors BNP Paribas and Toyota.

A trailer from a VA nursery arrives at 8 AM on June 10th to deliver 100 trees.

Volunteers recruited by Michael Perlman committed to a labor of love, by transporting the trees into a holding area, 2 days prior to the event.

Assembly line of Cherry & Blackgum trees in their holding area.

Moving trees from the holding area into MacDonald Park on 6/12

The trees take center stage, in preparation for the adoptees.

Some of the early risers, eager to paint our community green!

Some of the tree adoptees!

QCH Beacon Program students design a creative & touching mural capturing the theme of the tornado's fury & how they felt restoring MacDonald Park on 4/9, & volunteering on 6/12. Let's take inspiration from our young.

Planting a heart

Michael Perlman poses with the Beacon Program

NY Restoration Project

Harmony of Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance & Rego-Forest Preservation Council

Some of the members of Rego-Forest Preservation Council & 4BNPA

A local JHS student lends a helping hand.

May our trees prosper! Photo by David Kramer

MORE EVENT PHOTOS

Our Flickr photoset features our preparation for the event, the faces behind volunteers & tree adoptees posing with their trees, and some trees which have since been planted:
http://bit.ly/June12TreeGiveaway4BNPA

PRESS ROUND-UP

1. NY1 News & Forest Hills Patch coverage from the event:
http://queens.ny1.com/content/top_stories/140860/trees-given-away-to-forest-hills-homeowners
http://foresthills.patch.com/articles/residents-line-up-to-put-forest-back-in-forest-hills

2. Times Ledger, Forum West, & Forest Hills Patch coverage preceding the event:
http://www.yournabe.com/articles/2011/06/09/queens/qns_tree_giveaway_event_20110609.txt
http://theforumnewsgroup.com/2011/06/09/free-tree-giveaway-in-forest-hills
http://foresthills.patch.com/articles/one-hundred-trees-to-be-awarded-to-homeowners-on-june-12

3. Our 5/22 press release featuring the event flyer, before & after tornado photos and a personal account, and more background information leading up to the event: http://regoforestpreservation.blogspot.com/2011/05/june-12-2011-tree-giveaway-event-helps.html

HOW YOU CAN HELP

1. Please send any tree planting photos to unlockthevault@hotmail.com for inclusion in the flickr photoset, & credit will be granted.

2. If you are interested in being added to our mailing list for a future tree giveaway event, please e-mail us as well.

Forest Hills Gardens Tour by Historian Jeff Gottlieb, June 12th & 19th - Happy 25th Anniversary!

2011-06-08T00:02:00.001-04:00

Historian Jeff Gottlieb discusses how the Forest Hills Gardens was planned, how to distinguish its architectural styles, and which Forest Hills notables lived in homes some of us pass every day without a clue. These photos are from the June 15, 2008 tour. 2011 marks the 25th anniversary of his Forest Hills Gardens tours.

Mark your calendar! Summer is in the air, and so are walking tours. Residents of Forest Hills and beyond will have the privilege of embarking upon 2 Forest Hills Gardens tours this June. This walking tour highlights the 25th Anniversary of Jeff Gottlieb's first Forest Hills Gardens tour.

Jeff Gottlieb, a licensed tour guide, is President of the Central Queens Historical Association and Queens Jewish Historical Society. Established in 1909, the Forest Hills Gardens is the earliest planned garden community countrywide, which was inspired by Ebenezer Howard's Garden City Movement. It retains its high degree of Tudor architecture as well as Colonial design, and lush gardens.

Jeff Gottlieb will divide the walking tours into two parts, and each tour will take 2 1/2 hours:

1. Sunday, June 12, 2011, 10:00 AM: Meet at Station Square, and walk to Greenway North and Markwood Place.

2. Sunday, June 19, 2011, 10:00 AM: Meet at Greenway North and Markwood Place, and trek back to Station Square.

In early May 2011, Jeff Gottlieb was the recipient of the HDC Grassroots Preservation Award for his work as a preservationist and historian.

The Forest Hills Gardens tour is free, and no pre-registration is necessary. For further information, please contact Jeff Gottlieb at (917) 376-4496 or Preservationist Michael Perlman at unlockthevault@hotmail.com

Sample of freestanding homes

Rowhouses

One of a few religious sites

One of a few apartment houses

June 12, 2011 Tree Giveaway Event Helps Restore NYC's Historic Tree Canopy Since The September 2010 Macroburst

2011-05-22T03:19:00.002-04:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: Michael Perlman, Queens VP
Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance
unlockthevault@hotmail.com

Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance To Hold June 12th Tree Giveaway Event - Restoring NYC's Historic Tree Canopy!

NYC's 5 Boroughs (May 22, 2011) - The boroughs are about to become greener at the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance Tree Giveaway Event. The first event of its kind in Forest Hills is scheduled for SUNDAY, JUNE 12, 2011 from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM at historic MacDonald Park on 70th Ave & Queens Blvd (circle).

100 free trees will be dispersed on a first-come, first-serve basis, and property owners and representatives will line up, and have the option of adopting a Cherry or Blackgum tree by completing an agreement. The trees are approximately 7 - 8 ft, are potted, and weigh 30 lbs. Each property is eligible for 1 tree donation, and is required to be planted on private property within a few days of the event.

After parts of Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island experienced a rare macroburst on September 16, 2010, Queens VP Michael Perlman of the 4BNPA documented some of its devastation, sent a proposal to New York Restoration Project (NYRP), and developed a bond. 4BNPA agreed to host a tree giveaway event to restore the natural and historic beauty of our boroughs, with the volunteerism of members of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, which Perlman chairs in Rego Park and Forest Hills.

Perlman explains, "Many people don't realize the benefits of our trees, until some of which were a century old, succumbed in seconds. We mustn't take anything for granted. Trees convey life, beauty, contribute to our environmental sustainability, and enhance property values. MacDonald Park was selected as the event site, in order to shed light upon a concentrated space that lost 60 mature and historic trees, and to initiate memories of a positive community event. Forest Hills was one of the greatly damaged neighborhoods, and we seek to restore its 'forest' factor. If all residents dedicated some time, we can make a major difference citywide."

Aimee Mara Zehner explains, "I was in it, hiding in my car, under an overpass approaching the Grand Central from the Jackie Robinson. I was blessed to be protected by an overpass. As soon as it passed and I could see, I began driving. It was the first few trees I saw, and I knew it was a tornado, and not just a blinding windy downpour. As I drove past more trees and then the cars, I cried. The devastation was horrifying. I was in shock for hours. The loss of the trees makes me cry when I pass them to & from work, since I appreciated them for years. When trees face mortality, it's a sad day."

Joseph Bruno of the NYC Office of Emergency Management reported 3,113 fallen trees in Queens, and 4,000 more damaged. Some of the most devastated varieties included Sycamore, Oak, Maple, Linden, Cherry & Apple Blossoms, Evergreen, and Weeping Willow. A fallen tree took the life of 30 year-old PA-resident Aline Levakis on Grand Central Parkway, cars were smashed, utility poles and traffic lights fell, and properties with major damage had to be condemned.

This tree giveaway event is made possible by the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance in partnership with New York Restoration Project and MillionTreesNYC (MTNYC), and through the generous support of Put Down Roots tree giveaway sponsor JetBlue, and MTNYC lead sponsors BNP Paribas and Toyota. Forest Hills Jewish Center will be the holding site for the trees prior to the event, and Key Food will loan load luggers to help transfer trees to MacDonald Park. 4BNPA and Rego-Forest Preservation Council will design an installation depicting the tornado's devastation locally, and name each tree on the basis of local "landmarks," notable residents, and historic street names. Students of the Queens Community House Beacon Program will design an installation of trees with poetry and slogans.

Event Flyer & Tornado Aftermath Photo Links

4BNPA Tree Giveaway Flyer

Aftermath photos by Michael Perlman

Aftermath photos by Greg Godfrey

Tree Species Photos

Nyssa Sylvatica Blackgum

Prunus Cerasifera Thundercloud, Courtesy Missouri Botanical Garden PlantFinder

Prunus Subhirtella Autumnalis, Courtesy of midwesternplants com

MacDonald Park throughout its many seasons before the tornadoes....

MacDonald Park, where 56 trees fell after the tornadoes, with many more damaged.....

The monumental Weeping Willow trees outside The James Madison before & after the tornado...

More tornado destruction....

Religious Sites Open Doors Statewide on May 21 & 22 - Happy 25th Anniversary, Sacred Sites Program!

2011-05-19T04:36:00.000-04:00

Mark your calendars! On 5/21 & 5/22, YOU are invited to tour numerous religious institutions, as part of The NY Landmarks Conservancy's State-wide Open House Weekend.

Religious institutions which received Sacred Site grants &/or Lucy G Moses Preservation Awards for their restoration, will participate. The Sacred Sites Program is having a 25th Anniversary celebration, so what better way to celebrate with the public, who has played a major role in the process for a quarter of a century?!?!

Take these religious sites as case studies, & most of all, enjoy this rare state-wide tour with your family & friends. For more information, visit The New York Landmarks Conservancy's website:

http://www.nylandmarks.org/events/lectures_and_other_events/25th_anniversary_of_sacred_sites_program_open_house_weekend

http://www.nylandmarks.org/pdfs/events/Alphabetized_open_house_rsvps_5-5-11.pdf

Landmarking Restores Church of The Resurrection: A Case Study!

2011-05-19T03:26:00.000-04:00

Church of The Resurrection Episcopal, Richmond Hill/Kew Gardens, circa 1910, courtesy of KewGardensHistory.com

The Church of The Resurrection Episcopal in Kew Gardens has a new chapter in its history text! It is a case study showing how State & Federal Landmarking served as a catalyst for historic commemoration and funding for restoration work. It now has a new roof, and there's no reason why the church cannot live on for another 137 years!

According to the Forest Hills Times, "The church was able to replace the roof thanks to a $10,000 grant from the New York Landmarks Conservancy, which was given to the church because it is both a state and federal historic site. A $250,000 matching grant was also awarded to the church by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation."

The article then explains, "While in the process of replacing the roof, the main stained-glass window, which features four archangels, was found to be in bad shape. The window was carefully removed, restored and reinstalled."

http://foresthillstimes.com/bookmark/13197347/article-Church+of+the+Resurrection+gets+a+new+roof

Landmarks are cornerstones of all communities. It requires teamwork and creativity to preserve, and adaptively and creatively reuse them, if a site has to accommodate a new use.

If you have an interest in exploring such landmarking and funding incentives, please e-mail unlockthevault@hotmail.com

Which other historic religious and non-religious sites are on your wish list for a similar restoration?

Green For Queens Community Earth Day Fair

2011-05-10T01:49:00.000-04:00

As supporters of environmental preservation and our community spirit, Rego-Forest Preservation Council takes pride in the 2nd Annual Green For Queens Community Earth Day Fair.......

Take your family & friends to a FREE environmental festival on Sunday, May 15th from 1 PM to 4 PM at the Central Queens YMHA/YWHA at 67-09 108th St, Forest Hills, NY

Earth-Friendly Fun For Kids:

Wildlife Children’s Theater of the Central Park Zoo
Big Apple “Circus to Go”
Music and cooking for kids!
Create an edible eco-system & eco-crafts.
Learn about worm composting!
Snakes & Worms & Other Wild Animals!

Green Vendors, Exhibits, & Talks for Adults:

Sustainable Food: local & organic cheese & coffee tastings, vegetarian cooking demonstrations, and more!
Bestselling Author Anna Lappe speaking on Diet for a Hot Planet at 3:00 PM (Babysitting available during Anna Lappe’s talk.)
Learn how you can save energy, save $ & fight global warming!
Recycle: cell phones, rechargeable batteries, clothes & shoes.
Sign up for a FREE energy audit or for clean wind energy. (Bring one year of your gas & electric bills along)
Learn about neighborhood organic food coops, community gardens, white roofs, bike paths, and green walls.
Free reusable water bottles, shopping bags, and CFL light bulbs!

And.... Delicious, healthy snacks for all!

Event flyer:

http://www.centralqueensy.org/clientuploads/EarthDayPoster2011.pdf

For more information: www.centralqueensy.org/EarthDay
Call (718) 268-5011, ext. 151, or e-mail pkurtz@cqyjcc.org

Iconic Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Rejected For Landmark Hearing

2011-05-04T07:33:00.003-04:00

For Immediate Release

Contact: Chairman Michael Perlman

Rego-Forest Preservation Council

unlockthevault@hotmail.com
http://regoforestpreservation.blogspot.com

Iconic Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Rejected For Landmark Hearing

QUEENS, NY (May 4, 2011) - On May 3, 2011, local to international landmark supporters of the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium were dismayed to receive a form letter from the Landmarks Preservation Commission stating that after "a careful review of the current condition and architectural integrity of the above-referenced property, a senior staff committee of the Landmarks Preservation Commission found that the building does have some historic significance related to cultural and historic events that have taken place at the site and does retain intact architectural features. At this time, however, the property will not be recommended to the full Commission for further consideration as an individual New York City landmark. The reason not to recommend further consideration is due to the deteriorated state of the building’s architectural features."

On behalf of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Chair Michael Perlman states "By not calendaring a public hearing for the historic Forest Hills Tennis Stadium on local to international levels, this proves the LPC's dereliction of public duty, and of the architectural & cultural provisions of the Landmarks Law. The Landmarks Law does not reference a site's condition as a means for rejecting a public hearing. Despite, there have been buildings in Manhattan or Brooklyn needing major repairs, which have been calendared, heard, and landmarked, and have been restored or are now undergoing restoration. Some case studies are The Windermere, West Park Presbyterian Church, & Coignet Stone Co" (*LPC reports & press below).

Chairman Michael Perlman launched a grassroots campaign on July 23, 2010 by submitting a Request For Evaluation form with 50 pages of primary sources to the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, recommending the Stadium, Clubhouse, grounds, & interiors for NYC Landmark status. Perlman also reached out and met with local politicians. A landmark letter campaign and petition drive to the LPC and elected officials is ongoing.

On October 7, 2010, Cord Meyer Development's proposal to build condos and demolish the majority of the stadium was rejected by West Side Tennis Club members, after not receiving a 2/3 vote (required by bylaws) to approve a sale. Perlman explained "Disney-esque condos would have torn the heart out of Forest Hills. Mixed-use creative revitalization would yield a greater economic return in the long-run, and may feature tennis matches, concerts, weddings, exhibits, school trips, charity events, music and art festivals, etc. It would abide with its original and proven mission as "America's Tennis Stadium" according to a 1922 ad. It has the potential to be a 21st-century family destination, bring our communities closer together, boost tourism, convey historic pride, educate our children, help local businesses through tough economic times, and be an incentive for newer businesses i.e. on the Austin St corridor."

The Forest Hills Tennis Stadium embodies firsts in tennis, music, and architectural history. Designed by award-winning architect Kenneth Murchison and built by The Foundation Co, it was the first concrete tennis stadium countrywide, and was the first home to the US Open, Davis Cup, & Wightman Cup. It hosted players such as Bill Tilden, Helen Jacobs, Billie Jean King, Roger Federer, and Arthur Ashe & Althea Gibson who broke the racial color barrier. The Stadium also played cinematic roles, as it featured key scenes of Alfred Hitchcock's Strangers On A Train. The annual Forest Hills Music Festival and concerts took ground in the late 1950s - late 1990s, featuring The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Bob Dylan, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross, The Monkees, The Who, Johnny Mathis, Barbra Streisand, Simon & Garfunkel, Trini Lopez, Peter, Paul, & Mary, etc.

Rego-Forest Preservation Council will continue advocating for city, state, & federal landmark status to commemorate an icon while opening the door to funding (grants & tax credits) for a restoration and historically-sensitive upgrades (potentially $12 million), exploring an amendment to Transferable Development Rights (TDR), and advocating for creative mixed-use revitalization and seeking benefactors. We hope the West Side Tennis Club will confide in us an ally, and work cooperatively towards a viable future for the historic Forest Hills Tennis Stadium, which reflects the sentiments and ideals of the greater American public.

PHOTOS

1. Rego-Forest Preservation Council Photoset featuring Stadium, Clubhouse, Memorabilia -
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157607136282297/

2. Forest Hills Tennis Stadium: Gallery 1 featuring Joe Shlabotnik/Peter Dutton's photos -
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/galleries/72157624960334088

3. Forest Hills Tennis Stadium: Gallery 2 featuring Joe Shlabotnik/Peter Dutton's photos -
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/galleries/72157624960580042/

*Case studies of Landmark victories despite ailing infrastructure

1. The Windermere (400-406 W 57th St, NYC), an early apartment house was designated on June 28, 2005:
http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/reports/windermere.pdf
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/05/21/new-owner-tol-repair-a-once-grand-landmark/

2. Coignet Stone Company (360 Third Ave, Brooklyn) was designated on June 27, 2006:

http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/press/06_27_06.1.pdf

http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/reports/ny_li_coignet_stone_co.pdf

http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/brooklyn/2008/07/15/2008-07-15_gowanus_landmark_building_caught_in_repa.html

3. West Park Presbyterian Church (165 W 86th St, NYC) was designated on Jan 12, 2010:

http://www.landmarkwest.org/westpark.htm

http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/downloads/pdf/reports/WestParkM.pdf

###

Trylon Theater in Forest Hills Patch - A 1939 World's Fair Legacy Never Ceases

2011-04-25T00:12:00.002-04:00

The 1939 Trylon Theater as boasted in 1941 in The Theatre Catalog

The Trylon Theater after its 60-year run in Dec 1999. A time when the facade's most significant Art Deco features with international ties remained intact.

The TRYLON THEATER is your Rego-Forest Preservation Council Chairman's latest installation in the Local History column for Forest Hills Patch.

This theater at 98-81 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills had cultural, architectural, and historical significance to the 1939 – 1940 World's Fair, which was held in Flushing Meadows Park, and categorized by the 700-ft spire Trylon (pyramid) and 180-ft Perisphere (globe) monuments. It was the “Theater of Tomorrow,” since the theme of the 1939 World’s Fair was the “World of Tomorrow,” where exhibits emphasized technological improvements. Social and cultural change led to new waves of immigrants. The marquee once boasted The Wizard of Oz and Gone With The Wind.

With the exception of its closure in 1999, and the jackhammering of significant Art Deco features in 2005 despite a community preservation movement and political controversy, you can read an excerpt of its intriguing 60-year chapter of what defined a neighborhood theater with international ties. Please share your memories: http://foresthills.patch.com/articles/trylon-theatre

Thankfully hosted on the 1939 New York World's Fair (Reaction Grid) website, you can read more about the Committee To Save The Trylon Theater (which led to the creation of Rego-Forest Preservation Council in late 2006): http://www.1939nyworldsfair.com/worlds_fair/trylon_theater.htm In short, when former councilmember, Melinda Katz, did NOT support landmarking sites in Forest Hills, the Landmarks Preservation Commission backed off from the Trylon Theater. Sometimes public officials forget why they were elected.

Art Deco glory! The Trylon Theater entrance pavilion after closure in Dec 1999. It features a Trylon Monument on the mosaic ticket booth with a central 3D mirror-image on the terrazzo floor, which is then accompanied by Art Deco chevrons in mosaic tiles.

Art Deco travesty in 2005: Hard to believe that this was all that remained of the above image, consisting of the priceless ticket booth and entrance pavilion, as a demolition crew was told to destroy this artifact.

2005: Bad enough the lobby was gutted, but the back-lit mosaic Trylon fountain wasn't even spared.

The World of Tomorrow-themed cloth mural for the Trylon Theater, a "Theater of Tomorrow." Sadly, this work of art alongside the proscenium wasn't preserved when the building underwent a conversion.

After viewing these photos and reading its history, the question on most people's minds becomes.........

Wouldn't it have been much easier to work together to preserve and creatively reuse the Trylon Theater's historic Art Deco features, while undergoing conversion to a cultural center in 2005?

Preserving Your Neighborhood's Commercial Districts Presentation - You're Invited on May 2nd at 8:30 AM

2011-04-24T08:31:00.001-04:00

Before your work day, you are invited to an HDC Monday Morning Coffee Talk - Preserving Your Neighborhood’s Commercial Districts

When? Mon, May 2, 2011 at 8:30 AM

Where? Neighborhood Preservation Center, 232 East 11^th Street, Manhattan

For the May Coffee Talk, come learn about how you can PRESERVE, FUND, and REVITALIZE your local commercial corridors. Attendees will understand the steps needed to identify and implement a successful main street program for your historic commercial corridor, including façade restorations, streetscape improvements and funding opportunities for these types of projects. This presentation will be led by Robert and Victor Dadras, partners at Dadras Architects, who have overseen more than 500 Main Street revitalization projects over the last twenty-five years in the NY region.

This event is FREE to the public. Reservations are required, as space is limited.

For more information, please contact Sara Romanoski at (212) 614-9107 or sromanoski (at) hdc (dot) org.

The Neighborhood Partners Program is sponsored in part by Assembly Members Jonathan L. Bing, Deborah J. Glick, Richard N. Gottfried and Daniel J. O’Donnell, and State Senators Thomas K. Duane, Liz Krueger, Bill Perkins, & Diane J. Savino.

Robert & Victor Dadras at the LISC Urban Forum in Miami, FL, Nov 2006, Courtesy of Dadras Architects

Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Recognized in National Trust For Historic Preservation's Preservation Magazine

2011-04-23T14:26:00.000-04:00

This is a Nov 1922 ad which appeared in MIT's Technology Review. Designed by public building architectural specialist Kenneth Murchison in 1923, it became the country's first permanent concrete tennis stadium. There's no denying its strong foundation in more ways than 1!

Centerfield! August 2010 photo by Patrick Lannan

The famed yet endangered Forest Hills Tennis Stadium is recognized in the National Trust For Historic Preservation's Preservation Magazine (May-June 2011 issue) as threatened. It is the hope of Rego-Forest Preservation Council that such exposure along with city, state, federal landmark status, and potentially an amended version of Transferable Development Rights (TDR), will yield funds for restoration and creative multi-reuse. Hopefully, exposure in this noteworthy publication will spark the interest of historically-sensitive visionaries, who will partner with the Stadium's owner, the West Side Tennis Club. Below is the excerpt from the magazine's Transitions section:

The greatest tennis players of the 20th century—Arthur Ashe, Billie Jean King, Rod Laver, Margaret Court, and Jimmy Connors among them—served, volleyed, and stroked backhands at this 14,000-seat stadium in the Forest Hills section of Queens, N.Y. After the U.S. Open moved to Flushing Meadows in 1977, the West Side Tennis Stadium hosted various professional tournaments but was eventually abandoned. The club that owns the badly deteriorated stadium discussed demolition with a developer interested in building condos. But in October, the club voted to retain the stadium and solicit ideas for reuse. About $12 million is needed just to repair the crumbling 1923 landmark.

Source: http://www.preservationnation.org/magazine/2011/may-june/transitions.html

1968 US Open Tennis Championships press kit featuring Arthur Ashe

Golden glory awaits TLC! Photo by Michael Perlman, Sept 2010

Frank Sinatra at the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium, July 15, 1977

1937 news photo

Judy Garland at Forest Hills Tennis Stadium on July 17, 1965 at the annual Forest Hills Music Festivals, Courtesy of Robert Rauschenbach

Palm Sunday 4/17 Concert: Help Restore The Historic First Presbyterian Church of Newtown

2011-04-12T00:00:00.005-04:00

The historic First Presbyterian Church of Newtown proudly extends an invite, and encourages your help. ALL are invited to the church's Easter Concert & Restoration Fundraiser on Palm Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 2:00 PM. The church adult choir and youth will present For Such A One As This, a moving and beautiful musical presentation of the Easter story. The Organist and Choir Director is Kiyomi Kimura.

The church is at the south side of Queens Blvd & 54th Ave in Elmhurst, near the Grand Ave subway entrance. For more information, contact Church Historian Marjorie Melikian at (718) 897-5668. Rego-Forest Preservation Council is committed to assist the church in a restoration cause, and Chair Michael Perlman can be contacted at unlockthevault@hotmail.com

This church is endangered not by developers which have undermined the integrity of historic religious institutions in recent years, but is endangered, since it is in need of some major repairs to its 1895 building, including restoration of its intricate wooden doors, weatherproofing, electrical work, roofing, refinishing, the cleaning and repair of stained glass, and the installation of historic-style railings around the church's stoop. Similar repairs are needed for the adjoining 1931 Church House. Restoration is often costly, particularly for many religious institutions citywide, but the salvation of a historic religious edifice is priceless.

There is no admission fee, and a free-will offering will be collected, to benefit the restoration and upgrades of one of Queens' greatest "Landmarks at heart!" The church and its bell are symbols of the lost history of Queens, and have withstood the test of time. Your help is most crucial towards preserving this historic site for future generations to cherish. Please help by spreading the word, and bringing your family and friends.

If you cannot attend this restoration fundraiser concert, & would still like to help restore a site with 17th century Newtown roots, please send donations to:

First Presbyterian Church of Newtown Building Fund
54-05 Seabury St, Elmhurst, NY 11373.
("Building Fund" must be noted on the check.)

Historic Overview

The First Presbyterian Church of Newtown is a greatly intact Gothic brownstone masterpiece from 1895 with a bell tower, stained glass windows, a pitched roof, and elaborate woodwork. The church’s congregation dates to 1652, making it one of New York City’s earliest extant. Originally a community church, it officially became Presbyterian in 1715. The church was founded in the wilderness (now Elmhurst) of the Dutch Colony of New Netherlands, and has survived war, invasion, and religious and political persecution. In 1924, the church faced another hurdle. Queens Boulevard was slated to be widened by the city, and therefore, the sole hope of salvation was transporting it. Teamwork resulted in an engineering marvel, as the 5 million-pound church was moved 125 feet.

The church has a bell which dates to 1788, and was installed in its 4th church building erected in 1791, just after the American Revolution. This replaced its 3rd church, which was desecrated by British soldiers and demolished. The bell survived the destruction of that church by fire, and the moving of the present church a half-block in the 1920s, which caused the loss of its original huge steeple. The bell was originally in an edifice on a single-lane dirt road, with horses going by. The current church was built on a double-lane dirt road. Both the single and double lanes form what is now bustling Queens Blvd. The bell has witnessed significant historic moments in Queens. A rare and unique history of the First Presbyterian Church of Newtown, published by Church Historian Marjorie Melikian of Rego Park, NY: http://www.fpcn.org/history/

Postcards and photo documentation by Michael Perlman, Chair of Rego-Forest Preservation Council & Queens VP of the Four Borough Neighborhood Preservation Alliance, is below and on flickr:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157605752409722/

Interior of the Gothic sanctuary towards the altar.

Looking out from the altar towards the balcony.

One of the church's many enriching stained glass works.

The 1895 First Presbyterian Church of Newtown is moved during the 1920s, and Queens Blvd is expanded to its current size today. The congregation and riggers worked diligently to spare the church from demolition, and this could potentially be the largest and heaviest building ever moved in New York!

A rare glimpse of rural Queens Boulevard with the First Presbyterian Church of Newtown & humble frame houses. The church's original huge steeple doubled the height of the building, and was sacrificed during the move. ~ Courtesy of the Michael Perlman Postcard Collection.

More stained glass beauty of the 19th century. They sure don't make 'em like they used to!

Spiritual scenes transcend from the artist's vision to reality.

An 1895 Gothic masterpiece is a one & only encounter on Queens Blvd! Visualize farmland with frame houses mere steps from this edifice 115 years ago.

John Goldsmith Payntar left $70,000 in his will for the new 1895 church building. "Payntar Memorial" is inscribed above the entranceway. Stained glass windows and Gothic ornamentation create an empowering entry, which is complemented by its hand-carved wood doors with intricate brass handles. These are a few of many authentic features which merit restoration, before they are lost forever.

A closer eye on the Gothic facade with stained glass overlooking Queens Blvd.

The charming 1931 limestone & brick Church House annex on Seabury St consists of recreational facilities, performance space, and classrooms. It is also in great need of restoration and upgrades.

One Thing That's Green For The Records - Nearly 900 Volunteers Plant 180 Trees In MacDonald Park & Forest Hills Surroundings

2011-04-10T03:28:00.010-04:00

MacDonald Park with newly planted trees by volunteers

Nearly 900 volunteers help restore the tree canopy of MacDonald Park & nearby Forest Hills sites, including a tree to be planted on the Queens Boulevard median

MacDonald Park with trees ready to be planted in the footprint of those destroyed by the 9/16/10 macroburst

5 year-old trees slated for planting in MacDonald Park

Historic MacDonald Park devastation after the macroburst

To be missed: MacDonald Park with its monumental yet graceful pillars

Most of these trees were lost. May the new plantings mature before our eyes!

Queens Blvd's historic tree canopy: Most of MacDonald Park's mature trees, particularly on the western side may have been blown away, but this classic scene from a few seasons ago will not be forgotten.

Hats off to One Thing That's Green, or what some may refer to as Forest Hills Community Day, which became more of a citywide community cause in the heart of Forest Hills. April 9, 2011 (9 AM - 2:30 PM) is one day for the records!

Forest Hills was one neighborhood which sustained some of the worst devastation during the Sept 16, 2010 tornadoes, and a total of 3,113 trees were lost in Queens, Brooklyn, & Staten Island. Chairman Michael Perlman & board members of Rego-Forest Preservation Council have documented the tornado's fury, first recommended Forest Hills for tree replanting projects last fall, and assisted NYRP in the property survey over the course of the last few months. On March 26, 2011, Michael Perlman of RFPC & Steve Melnick of the Queens Boulevard Restoration Group joined forces, and erected a table and poster board on Continental Ave, distributed flyers, signed up volunteers on a netbook, and thankfully received permission to use wi-fi from Starbucks at 107-12 Continental Ave.

Let's extend a huge thank you to local & citywide volunteers, who planted 79 trees in our MacDonald Park (the center of the event) on April 9th, our Yellowstone Park, as well as other historic sites, which include PS 303, The James Madison & The Benjamin Franklin apartment houses (communal gardens included). The diversity of the tree species in MacDonald Park increased with newly planted Japanese Zelkovas, Red Oaks, Winter King Thornless Hawthornes, and more. Around 180 trees were planted within a few hours' time, proving how each person can account for a major difference in our communities.

A huge thank you to the NY Restoration Project, JetBlue, Million Trees NYC, PlaNYC, NYC Parks, colleagues at Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Queens Boulevard Restoration Group, The Beacon Program, KTU 103.5 FM, Z100, & 106.7 Lite FM, BNP Paribas, Toyota, etc.

Volunteers numbered around 860, which was far more than the expected 500-600 volunteers, and spanned many generations. It was very inspirational to see everyone who arrived early, with the face of civic pride and a vision. What a great sense of community!

The diverse citywide faces line up to help restore Forest Hills, symbolizing "a blockade against tornadoes!"

Some volunteers from Rego-Forest Preservation Council

Councilmember Karen Koslowitz

State Senator Toby Stavisky

Assemblymember Andrew Hevesi

Queens Borough President Helen Marshall

When volunteers registered, they received color-coded wristbands, which determined which group they would be placed in, and where they would plant trees. Volunteers were served breakfast, and listened to opening speeches by City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, CM Karen Koslowitz, BP Helen Marshall, Deputy BP Barry Grodenchik, radio station personalities, a JetBlue safety expert, and a representative of the NY Restoration Project. Then everyone repeated a green empowerment slogan, ending in "Now I will do my one thing that's green!"

The youngest of children receive a lesson in community service in MacDonald Park

Power to the people!

Members of the Beacon Program with "going green" Chairman Michael Perlman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council

Curb tree pits also received a Very Important Plant treatment

Besides planting at MacDonald Park, volunteer groups crossed Queens Blvd with NYRP staff, carrying huge banners reading "Million Trees NYC" & "Do One Thing That's Green." Groups cheered at each other when arriving at each site within close proximity (symbolic of a competition). A tree planting demonstration was done by The James Madison curb tree pit. Some street trees were also planted elsewhere.

Crossing Yellowstone Blvd towards Yellowstone Park, The Thomas Jefferson, The James Madison, & PS 303. Long may they wave!

Volunteers outside The Thomas Jefferson

Volunteers gather outside The James Madison, watching a tree planting demonstration. & anticipate planting on the lawn

As a token of appreciation, around 1,000 catered buffet-style lunches were provided by Dallas BBQ, and families and friends dined in the newly planted MacDonald Park, admiring their accomplishments. Children participated in a number of additional activities, such as hula hoops and a match game. An owl, bird, turtle, iguana, and a snake were available for petting. "Queen of Freestyle" Judy Torres performed her classic hits, including "No Reason To Cry," "Come Into My Arms," and "Faithfully," and the crowd cheered her on. Then a a few raffle drawings were held, and people won complimentary flights on JetBlue. Amy Freitag, Executive Director of the New York Restoration Project thanked volunteers, waving adieu.

A picnic lunch, Forest Hills-style!

Statue of Gerald MacDonald watches over in pride

Petting zoo demonstration

Sharing is caring!

Freestyle singer Judy Torres engages audience participation

The new 14+ ft trees in MacDonald Park are at least 5 years old, and have quite a way to mature, to match the small quantity of 30-60 year-old trees which survived the 9/16/10 macroburst. A child said they will return in 20 years to see the tree they planted grow much taller. Not only was a tree planted, but a heart in Forest Hills.

The day in photos speak louder than words, so relive the memories, courtesy of Chair Michael Perlman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council: http://bit.ly/OneThingThatsGreenForestHillsPerlmanPhotos

Some photos from the tornado in Forest Hills:
http://regoforestpreservation.blogspot.com/2011/03/help-plant-trees-in-forest-hills-on-sat.html

With deep gratitude to all,
- Michael Perlman, Rego-Forest Preservation Council, Chairman

Introducing "Local History" Column in Forest Hills Patch - Debuting Eddie's Sweet Shop

2011-04-09T15:03:00.005-04:00

Youngsters sitting at the counter of Witt's Ice Cream, which would later be known as Eddie's Sweet Shop. Could it be Owner William Witt?

As a native Forest Hills resident, NYC preservationist, and writer, I take pride in my new weekly column with a popular hyper-publication, Forest Hills Patch. Introducing... Local History. Enjoy my first feature, "Eddie's Sweet Shop." As we celebrate the 119th anniversary of the sundae, treat yourself in what's NYC's earliest intact ice cream parlor, at 105-29 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills:

http://foresthills.patch.com/articles/eddies-sweet-shop

If you are curious about the history of any landmarks, worthy sites & sections, long-forgotten sites, or historic notables of Forest Hills or Rego Park, please send your suggestions to unlockthevault@hotmail.com, and I will consider coverage. It is a pleasure to serve our community!

- Michael Perlman, Chairman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council

Rego-Forest Preservation Council

All Aboard The QueensLine! Petition Drive For A 21st Century Queens Destination!!!

Tale of 2 of Forest Hills' Earliest Apartment Houses

In Memorium: Pat Dolan, Queens Community Leader

I was shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of Patricia Dolan, the President of the Queens Civic Congress, and a long-dedicated borough-wide advocate. She was struck by a car on the evening of November 15th at the intersection of Hillside Ave & 198th St. She was 72.

She will be greatly missed. We must continue to work together to preserve and fulfill her legacy, benefit from her teachings, and make our borough and city a safer and more attractive place to live and visit.

Memorial services for PATRICIA DOLAN

Tuesday, November 29, 2011 at 7:00 PM

Schwartz Brothers - Forest Park Chapel 114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375 (Queens Blvd. and 76th Road)

Press

Save Our 600 Trees At The Kew Gardens Interchange - Open Letter To NYS DOT

Forest Hills Tennis Stadium May Have A Sports & Entertainment Future

MacDonald Park Meeting Calls For Proactive Approach By Our Volunteers To Restore Forest Hills' Historic Anchor

Facebook Groups: Please Take Action For S.O.S. (Save Our Stadium!) & Rego-Forest Preservation Council

Please spread the word to ALL your neighbors & friends, and help preserve & enhance our community's historic character. Help our volunteer recruitment initiative as well. Thank you!

America's Tennis Stadium Feature Story in Untapped New York by Michael Perlman

May the ball be in our court! Rego-Forest Preservation Council Chair Michael Perlman was presented with the opportunity to cover the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Cause for Untapped NY.

The feature story consists of a comprehensive illustrated history, and explains the potential for community rewards for collaborating to save a rare piece of Americana:

"Queens Blvd Big Sweep" Needs Volunteers on October 15th, 8:30 AM - 3 PM

Commemorate Arthur Szyk with Forest Hills Jewish Center & The Arthur Syzk Society on 9/25/11 at 12:30 PM - A Ceremony Fit For A Legend!

Invite: Birth of Historic Preservation 9/20/11 at Museum of The City of NY - Special Discount to RFPC Blog Readers!

NYC Trees Need Your Help - Any Sum Makes A Great Difference!

September 11, 2011 - We Are Stronger Than Ever!

We will always remember our heroes, our survivors, our victims, and all families and friends of September 11th.

Our Twin Towers fell, but our courage and unity never sunk with it.

This postcard is captioned "April 4, 1973 - Sept 11, 2001"

On April 26, 2011, ABC News announced the 9/11 Memorial is set to open on the 10th anniversary of the attacks: http://abclocal.go.com/wabc/story?section=news/local/new_york&id=8095409

Superb coverage with 9/11/01 photos on Drake's Edge of The City Blog: http://edgeofthecityblog.blogspot.com/2011/09/remembering-911.html

Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Trade_Center_site

Google News thread on September 11, 2011 memorials: 9/11/11

UNITED WE STAND!

9/14 INVITE: Colonial Revival in Extremis at the Museum of The City of NY - Rego-Forest Preservation Council Discount

9/12/11 Event: Historic Building Survey Basics, Monday Morning Coffee Talk at Neighborhood Preservation Center

HURRICANE IRENE ADVICE

Take steps to prepare for Hurricane Irene‏

Measuring the storm, The Saffir-Simpson Scale (Credit: CBS & AP)

Forest Hills Post Office History Recognized in Queens Chronicle

A post office deemed risque 1

WSTC Issues Request For Proposals For Storied Forest Hills Tennis Stadium - RFPC Seeks Preservation-Friendly Partners For WSTC

On August 3rd, Journalist Dawn Wotapka of the Wall Street Journal covered this issue, which features an interview with Chairman Michael Perlman of Rego-Forest Preservation Council:

Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Petition Seeking Landmarking & Restoration

LIRR Destroys Forest Hills Trees on June 18th & Pledges To Alter More on July 5, 2011 - CALL TO ACTION!

"Colonial Revival: Then & Now" lecture & discussion at the Museum of the City of New York, July 19 at 6:30 PM AND "American Style: Colonial Revival and the Modern Metropolis" exhibition though Nov 6, 2011

Daniel Eldridge House Landmarking Testimony By Queens Preservation Council

Joseph B. Hellmann Park Would Honor A Community Leader & Friend

6/12/11 Tree Giveaway Is A Success - Greenery Restored Borough-Wide!

Forest Hills Gardens Tour by Historian Jeff Gottlieb, June 12th & 19th - Happy 25th Anniversary!

June 12, 2011 Tree Giveaway Event Helps Restore NYC's Historic Tree Canopy Since The September 2010 Macroburst

Religious Sites Open Doors Statewide on May 21 & 22 - Happy 25th Anniversary, Sacred Sites Program!

Take these religious sites as case studies, & most of all, enjoy this rare state-wide tour with your family & friends. For more information, visit The New York Landmarks Conservancy's website:

Landmarking Restores Church of The Resurrection: A Case Study!

The article then explains, "While in the process of replacing the roof, the main stained-glass window, which features four archangels, was found to be in bad shape. The window was carefully removed, restored and reinstalled."

Landmarks are cornerstones of all communities. It requires teamwork and creativity to preserve, and adaptively and creatively reuse them, if a site has to accommodate a new use.

If you have an interest in exploring such landmarking and funding incentives, please e-mail unlockthevault@hotmail.com

Which other historic religious and non-religious sites are on your wish list for a similar restoration?

Green For Queens Community Earth Day Fair

Iconic Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Rejected For Landmark Hearing

PHOTOS

1. Rego-Forest Preservation Council Photoset featuring Stadium, Clubhouse, Memorabilia -http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157607136282297/

2. Forest Hills Tennis Stadium: Gallery 1 featuring Joe Shlabotnik/Peter Dutton's photos -http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/galleries/72157624960334088

3. Forest Hills Tennis Stadium: Gallery 2 featuring Joe Shlabotnik/Peter Dutton's photos -http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/galleries/72157624960580042/

Trylon Theater in Forest Hills Patch - A 1939 World's Fair Legacy Never Ceases

Preserving Your Neighborhood's Commercial Districts Presentation - You're Invited on May 2nd at 8:30 AM

Forest Hills Tennis Stadium Recognized in National Trust For Historic Preservation's Preservation Magazine

Palm Sunday 4/17 Concert: Help Restore The Historic First Presbyterian Church of Newtown

One Thing That's Green For The Records - Nearly 900 Volunteers Plant 180 Trees In MacDonald Park & Forest Hills Surroundings

Introducing "Local History" Column in Forest Hills Patch - Debuting Eddie's Sweet Shop

Schwartz Brothers - Forest Park Chapel
114-03 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
(Queens Blvd. and 76th Road)

1. Rego-Forest Preservation Council Photoset featuring Stadium, Clubhouse, Memorabilia -
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157607136282297/

2. Forest Hills Tennis Stadium: Gallery 1 featuring Joe Shlabotnik/Peter Dutton's photos -
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/galleries/72157624960334088

3. Forest Hills Tennis Stadium: Gallery 2 featuring Joe Shlabotnik/Peter Dutton's photos -
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/galleries/72157624960580042/