Behind The Lens with Preservationist & Author Michael Perlman

Michael Perlman is a fifth generation Forest Hills resident and Chair of Rego-Forest Preservation Council, who takes pride in commemorating architectural and cultural history, as well as proposing sites for Individual Landmark and sections for Historic District status to the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. He is completing RFE nomination forms for Forest Hills (founded 1906) and Rego Park (1923), where the latter community was selected as a Historic Districts Council “Six To Celebrate” 2020 community in advance of turning 100 in 2023. 

Michael Perlman honored at Local Heroes reception by Queens Community House, Forest Hills Stadium stage, May 2023

Perlman is a Class of 2000 vocal major graduate of LaGuardia HS of Music & Art and the Performing Arts, and achieved a BA in Communications and Writing from Marymount Manhattan College in 2004. 

 

Perlman is the recipient of a 2014 Historic Districts Council Grassroots Preservation Award for NYC, and was appointed Grand Marshal of the 2017 Forest Hills Memorial Day Parade. In May 2023, he received a crystal “Local Champions” trophy by the Queens Community House on the Forest Hills Stadium stage.

 

“Legendary Locals of Forest Hills and Rego Park,” a book by Michael H. Perlman (foreword by Jerry Springer) features local history, landmarks, and the stories of 210+ notables ranging from celebrities to unsung heroes.

Perlman, a Forest Hills Times columnist since 2012, spotlights historic preservation, human interest stories, humanitarian initiatives, and the arts. He is an admin of Facebook groups Rego-Forest Preservation Council and Forest Hills, Rego Park, Kew Gardens – “Our Communities.”

Forest Hills Stadium, Michael Perlman in center with James Dylan Burris, great-great-grandson & Lynne DeWardener-Burris, great-granddaughter of Stadium architect Kenneth Murchison

Perlman is a member of the West Side Tennis Club’s Tennis History & Archives Council. He played a significant role in rescuing the iconic Forest Hills Stadium from demolition after founding a committee and spearheading a PR and preservation campaign, salvaged the Art Deco neon Jay Dee Bakery sign among other features, secured State & National Register of Historic Places status for Rego Park Jewish Center and First Presbyterian Church of Newtown, acquired landmark status for the Ridgewood Theatre, and prevented Cinemart Cinemas from shuttering.

Historic Rego Park Jewish Center, Photo by Michael Perlman

Perlman earned the nickname “Diner Man” as a result of preserving NYC’s Moondance Diner and Cheyenne Diner via transport to WY and AL in 2007 and 2009, respectively. In recent times, he brokered a deal to reopen the T-Bone Diner (1934) as T-Bone Diner & Delicatessen. 

 

Forest Hills Tree Giveaway Event in MacDonald Park, Photo by coordinator Michael Perlman, May 2014

In partnership with New York Restoration Project, Perlman founded the Forest Hills Tree Giveaway event in MacDonald Park. In 2011 to 2015, he recruited local volunteers, and with the help of sponsors, donated 1,225 trees to property owners and board members.

 

In November 2019, Perlman’s architectural photography and restored vintage prints exhibit, “Reflections of Historic Forest Hills” opened at Jade Eatery’s gallery. He decorated various lobbies with his prints. He also formed the Tea Garden Restoration Committee, which seeks to restore what feels like a magical tea garden from 1912. He spearheaded the replication of a detailed 11-foot ring for tea stand through a partnership with Jade Eatery, Flushing Iron Weld, and Noble Signs.

Replicated Ring For Tea stand in front of Tea Garden's ornate gate upon delivery

In 2020, Perlman co-founded the Forest Hills & Rego Park Graffiti Cleanup Initiative, which restores storefronts and street furniture. In 2021, he founded the Forest Hills & Rego Park Historic Plaque Initiative. As of 2023, the Tudor style Sutton Hall and the Mid-Century Modern style Park Briar have “Forest Hills Historic Site” bronze plaques, which he co-designed with Frank DiBella of Academy Engraving. 

 

In partnership with the New York Sign Museum since 2022, Perlman arranged several deals to salvage historic signs in Queens, Manhattan, and Brooklyn.

 

Along the LIRR Ascan Avenue underpass, Perlman developed two murals, “A Tribute To Ascan Avenue & The Forest Hills Gardens” (2017) and the “Helen Keller Forest Hills Tribute” (2019), painted by Crisp and Praxis, with a Helen Keller pictorial plaque in collaboration with Continental Photo. 

 

Forest Hills & Rego Park architectural mural, "Wish You Were Here... Forest Hills & Rego Park Historic Buildings" by Gigi Chen & accompanying sign by Michael Perlman

Since June 2025, The Bagel Spot at 101-01 Queens Boulevard, features his mural project with national artist Gigi Chen, which bears homage to local architectural treasures, where some have been demolished, such as the Trylon Theatre, Tower Diner bank building, Howard Johnson’s, and the Gulf Station building. Forest Hills Stadium is among the represented preserved properties.

 

Last September, Perlman traveled 500 miles to rescue famed muralist Andre Durenceau’s circa 1939 40-foot mural from Hugh Kelly of MA, who first salvaged it in 1974 from Rego Park’s once iconic Howard Johnson’s. Restoring the mural and resurrecting it in Queens is a goal.

One of three sections of the Howard Johnson's mural by André Durenceau, which Michael Perlman rescued last September in its entirety, 1940 photo in Fortune

Another goal is to erect a “Little Free Library” in Federoff Triangle, which will be modeled after a demolished historic building, as well as co-name streets after historic architects and builders.

 

His interests also include singing, dancing, deltiology, photography, botany, public relations, long exploratory walks, and travel. He performed solo shows at Carnegie Hall, NYC clubs, and aboard cruise ships.  

 

It is always timely to fulfill mitzvahs. To volunteer, email Michael Perlman at mperlman@queensledger.com and join www.facebook.com/groups/SaveRegoParkForestHillsQueens 

 

Sweet Memories of Eddie’s Sweet Shop as Witt’s Confectionery & Ice Cream

 By Michael Perlman

Eddie's Sweet Shop, January 2021, Photo by Michael Perlman

Forest Hills is known for tennis, music, and of course ice cream! Eddie’s Sweet Shop at 105-29 Metropolitan Avenue holds the record for the most intact and what is likely the longest continuously operating ice cream parlor citywide.

In July 1979, artist Randy Jones sketched “The Great Ice Cream Safari” comic strip for The New York Times, which featured an elephant touring ice cream parlors, an endangered species. Eddie’s Sweet Shop was saved for last, where a patron on a swivel stool said, “This antique parlor would make a fine trophy in the Smithsonian!”

That vision continues today as patrons encounter vintage signs with Coca-Cola insignias and thematically decorated windows with stained-glass reading “Candy” and “Ice Cream.” Around 20 homemade flavors are prepared on the premises along with fresh whipped cream. Original flavors include rum raisin, butter pecan, and tutti frutti.

Patrons can sit on the same cast-iron swivel stools their great-grandparents sat on and enjoy a sundae or a float at the mahogany and marble counter facing stenciled built-ins and one of the first electric Frigidaire freezers. The authentic ambiance also features a honeycomb pattern mosaic floor, a tin ceiling with rose stamped molding, leaded glass windows with a sunburst and tulip motif, and tapestry appointed woodwork topped off by a wall clock by the pioneer Seth Thomas Clock Company.

In 1925, a 2-story brick building with a corner entranceway was filed and Seelig & Finkelstein drafted blueprints. One of the earliest owners was reportedly Mr. Krohn, followed by Schaefer. Around the mid-1940s, the shop was renamed Witt’s Ice Cream & Confectionery after owner William Witt, a German immigrant. When Witt retired, he sold the shop to the Citrano family in 1968, and it became a success ever since. Giuseppe and his son Vito Citrano and wife Angelina are cherished Forest Hills personalities. Three generations worked alongside one another until Vito’s grandpa, also Vito, passed away in 1995.

Three generations of the Citrano family in the footsteps of the Witts, 2014 photo by Michael Perlman 

Much of the shop’s history prior to 1968 is undocumented, but is being rediscovered thanks to the memories of patrons. Owner William Witt and his wife Elsie, who were often addressed as Mr. and Mrs. Witt, as well as their daughter with the same name, would also be proud.

Michael Dillon lived around the corner on Nansen Street since 1953, and after playing ball in the street with his friends, Witt’s was the go-to place. He said, “In the mid-60s while working at Associated Food Stores on Metropolitan Avenue, I was fortunate to deliver sugar and get a glimpse of all the wonderful ice cream making machines. The Witts were always such kind and lovely people, who always reminded me of the ideal grandma and grandpa.”

“My father, Joseph proposed to my mother, Clara at Witt’s. It was a fine treat for our parents to take my sisters and I on a walk there in the summer, and we always sat in ‘Mom and Dad’s booth,’ which was the first towards the back,” said Joe Burchill, who lived on Greenway Terrace followed by Burns Street. He reminisced, “I tried my first ice cream soda and my first sundae there. All of their ice cream was so creamy and the taste was very real. My absolute favorite was coffee.” He was also tempted by the candy display across from the soda fountain. “There were so many, it was hard to choose, but root beer barrels were a favorite.” He also remembered unique Panasonic radio ads photographed there. “They were promoting their unusually shaped and brightly colored line. There was a spherical radio and the ‘Toot-a-Loop’ that you could put on your wrist and untwist, so it could stand up on its own.”

John Mattis lived on Loubet Street and now resides near Tampa. He said, “I remember watching Mr. Witt pack the containers, really pushing the ice cream into them as hard as he could. Later on, when I would get ice cream from other places and watched them pack it gingerly, I realized how much the Witts always did the right thing for their family of customers. I also remember the cold feel of the marble countertops, the glorious banana splits, and the girls swim teams that would pack the booths and loudly and joyously talk among themselves. I was always sneaking a peak on a girl I liked!”

Witt's ad, December 1958, Community House Chatter publication 

Northern California resident Nick Covell feels fortunate to have lived in Forest Hills three times. “I delivered the Long Island Press there in 1956. When I collected for the 40 cents a week bill, Bill Witt used to give me a 35-cent malted for a tip, a big deal for a 13-year-old kid.”

Another account of graciousness was shared by Paul Hettler, who was raised on Kessel Street. “My dad and I would walk there every Saturday in the mid-fifties, and he would buy me a vanilla ice cream soda which cost about a quarter. A few years later, when I was old enough to walk alone, I would get the ice cream soda and give Mr. Witt a quarter. This went on for several weeks, when finally, he quietly told me they haven’t been a quarter for several years.”

Nancy Jeanne O’Connor, a Bronxville and Danbury resident, was raised on Manse Street between 69th and 70th Avenue. She said, “Many a night between 1951 and 1962, my parents walked up to Witt’s for dessert. Mom’s favorite was butter pecan and dad’s was chocolate, sometimes with orange sherbet. Our Lady of Mercy had processions of the little girls usually on Holy Thursday and the Feast of Corpus Christi, and many of us went to Witt’s afterward with our friends and parents. We went many Sundays with the ‘Klaum girls.’ We ordered hot fudge sundaes, but when funds were low, a 15-cent cherry coke. Now my siblings and I have the pleasure of introducing the next generation to Eddie’s, and it was always a special treat for them.”

Phyllis Pellitteri Cush especially remembers marshmallow sundaes and quality time at Witt’s after swim meets at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs. “My friends and I used to storm into Witt’s at one time and take over the whole shop. Sometimes there weren’t enough seats for us. I cannot forget the icicles in our hair!”

Andrea Stone also recalled swim meets, which were followed by banana splits and chocolate egg creams. Witt’s was also a tradition after 6th to 8th grade dances at The Community House. She said, “I told a friend in Colorado that Witt’s is now Eddie's Sweet Shop, and he said that he can't wait to try it the next time he goes to NYC. I love that it still looks the same!”

Reflecting on how the beloved ice cream parlor withstood the test of time, the Citrano family had much to share. “We feel so happy to see that Eddie’s Sweet Shop served generations of customers through the years we have been here, as well as new ones. Our family estimates that over 30 films, commercials, and ads have been produced at our shop during the years we own it.” Vito added, “My father showed me not to be afraid to work hard. When it’s time to make hot fudge, I will keep stirring until it’s right, no matter how late it is or tired I am.” Angelina is also grateful. “We had many proposals at Eddie’s, and the first wedding ceremony in front of our doors a few months ago. We were honored!”

A Forest Hills Tradition at Traymore Chemists

By Michael Perlman

Mom & pop shops once lined the streets of Forest Hills, granting much personalization and ambiance, but today small businesses built on tradition are increasingly an endangered species. This is due to high rents, changing demographics, the pandemic, and the lack of interest in younger generations to acquire the business or a landlord or tenant’s disinterest in making it available for another party.

Among Forest Hills’ longest continuously operating family businesses is Traymore Chemists at 110-80 Queens Boulevard, which was owned by Kenneth Liebowitz for over four decades. “Growing up, I never fully appreciated how hard my father worked to support our family, but one thing I knew is that he was very proud of his business,” said Kew Gardens Hills resident David Liebowitz, who began running the business after his father retired a few years ago. Now he feels privileged for the opportunity to continue building upon his father’s service to the community and preserve a classic business.

Original owner Kenneth Liebowitz

Patrons enter a classic recessed storefront with an original wooden door, and encounter authentic wooden built-ins and “Prescriptions” stylistically painted on the wall behind a counter with a vintage torsion balance and a pharmacy class cup, contributing to the charm. It is Traymore Chemists’ mission to offer the most economical prices for vitamins, over-the-counter medications, DMV eye exams, diabetic stockings, walkers, wheelchairs, blood pressure monitors, knee and back braces, fragrances, etc. They offer senior care specialty services and free delivery. Staff members relate to a diverse community by their ability to speak Spanish and Greek.

Michael Perlman, Owner David Liebowitz, & District 29 City Council Candidate Michael Conigliaro

Liebowitz acquired a first-hand lesson over time, despite not working at Traymore Chemists early on. He explained, “My father took great pride in serving customers, but even more than that, he really made customers feel like family. When I say that, I am not exaggerating. He truly cared about people, and they loved him for it. Ask anyone who knew him, and they will tell you the same thing.”


“When I began to run the business, I hired new pharmacists in the mold of my father,” he said. They are Anna Antiaris and Kathy Legakis, who have also become much admired community personalities. He continued, “I can tell you 100 percent that they really are like my father, since they are so special in that same way. They have such pleasant personalities.”

Kenneth Liebowitz, Courtesy of David Liebowitz

A pharmacy existed on site prior to Traymore Chemists, which was known as Jules Landsberg Pharmacy in 1963 and possibly earlier. Patrons would dial BO 1-8440. Today, the phone number is consistent, but in a numerical form, 718-261-8440 to reach Liebowitz and his colleagues.

Such a business poses advantages over a large chain. Liebowitz emphasized how crucial it is for the community to support small businesses and their neighbors, especially during the pandemic. “We are all suffering due to Covid-19, and as a society, we need to help each other by supporting our local small businesses. In today’s world, society has become so emotionally distant, but people crave friendliness and warmth. Our goal is to make people feel good when walking into our pharmacy by knowing their name and treating them with dignity and respect.”

Recently, an elder patron needed assistance and called the shop, so Liebowitz fulfilled his mission to “save the day!” He explained, “I asked our delivery person to assist them. We have elderly customers that sometimes ask us to pick something up for them at the food store, so we do it for them. It is our pleasure, since we want to be known in our community as the place that everyone can turn to, and especially for seniors who need some extra care.”

“My father used to call his customers ‘friends and family,’ and that’s exactly what I want to continue,” said Liebowitz.

A similar version was published in Michael Perlman's Forest Hills Times column:

foresthillstimes.com/view/full_story/27787175/article-Tradition-continues-at-Traymore-Chemists

A Sweet Celebration Filled with Memories for Aigner Chocolates’ 90th Anniversary

By Michael Perlman

It is proven that what is homemade and from the heart is a recipe for success. Aigner Chocolates at 103-02 Metropolitan Avenue has achieved a milestone, which tells a story of a mom and pop shop that is a rare survivor, thanks to the long hours of dedication under past and current owners, creativity, personalization, and a humanitarian spirit where patrons and the community become an extended family. To celebrate 90 years in Forest Hills, a socially distanced ceremony was held in front of the shop on September 13, with speeches from generations of owners and nearly ten elected officials; some of whom presented proclamations. Gift bags with a commemorative “90” chocolate pop were distributed, and harpist Erin Hill performed standards. 

 

Guest speakers were Community Board 6 District Manager Frank Gulluscio, Congresswoman Grace Meng, Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz, Councilman Donovan Richards, NYS Senator Joseph Addabbo, NYS Senator John Liu, Assemblyman Ed Braunstein, and representatives of Queens BP Sharon Lee and Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi. It even included a Certificate of Recognition from Governor Andrew Cuomo. 

Congresswoman Grace Meng, who presented a proclamation said, “Representing the Sixth Congressional District, I hold up Aigner Chocolates for great recognition and honor on the 90th anniversary of its founding, and declare today to be ‘Aigner Chocolates Day!’” President and CEO Thomas Grech of the Queens Chamber of Commerce said, “If you work to support your family, such as a meat guy, bagel guy, or the chocolatier, you are an essential worker. Aigner employs 8 people, which is 8 rents and 8 kids to put through school. At the end of the day, we should value every single job, since the person that has it, is essential to their family.” 

Owners Mark Libertini and Rachel Kellner acquired the business in October 2015 and added a new chapter to the Aigner story. Back in 1930, Germany native and confectioner Alfred Krause opened Krause’s Candy Kitchen in a predominantly German community. Since 1960, three generations of the Aigner family satisfied the sweet tooth of patrons. It consisted of John Aigner, who began working at Krause’s in the 1950s after training in Austria and Germany, his son Peter and wife Pia, and then their son Chris. In 2009, the business was renamed Aigner Chocolates. Then in 2015, master confectioner Peter Aigner trained Kellner and Libertini, who continue to produce chocolates on museum-quality equipment from the 1940s and 1950s. 

Kellner explained that it was love at first sight for the shop’s history and felt honored to preserve a tradition. She said, “What we didn’t realize at that time was that we were being adopted by a community, so caring and involved. The friendships we’ve developed with our fellow business owners, neighbors, and customers were completely unexpected, and now we can’t imagine our lives without all of these amazing people.” She then explained, “My husband loves making chocolate and I love running a chocolate shop, but the passion and love wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for all of you. This day is a celebration about community, because without this incredible community, we wouldn’t be here. To Mark, my partner in life and in business, you had a vision, and it allowed my vision of ‘food as therapy’ to become a realty in this beautiful business. You said our life would be an adventure. Babe, you were right!” Libertini said, “We are devoted to the art of creating beautiful and delicious chocolates using traditional family recipes and techniques. Our vision is to share our passion for the art of chocolate while making the world a better place.” 

Vintage photo of past owner Peter Aigner

Peter Aigner’s earliest memories date to his childhood. “We lived above the chocolate shop, when I was about 9 in 1960. When my parents were in bed, I would sneak downstairs into the store to help myself to half a dozen milk chocolate marshmallows and take it up to my room. As I grew up, my tastes mellowed to a little less sweet.” Chris Aigner continued, “I would sneak down early Saturday morning, before the store was open, and get a chocolate pop, and then go upstairs to my grandparents and watch cartoons with a glass of orange juice and chocolate pop.” Pia Aigner said, “I was so impressed how Americans loved chocolates, coming from a country where chocolate was so expensive, that people would buy one to two pieces. I came to America and they would buy it by the pound.” 

Pia Aigner, Chris Aigner, Mark Libertini, Rachel Kellner, Peter Aigner, Thomas Grech 

The Aigner family feels they made the perfect choice after interviewing Mark and Rachel. Peter said, “Very few businesses in New York manage to survive that long. Our customers were very loyal. We always maintained a high quality product, and Mark and Rachel are excellent heirs. They took it seriously and learned it from the ground up and continuing the tradition with the same recipes and manner that we ran it, but with a little more artistic flair, and we are very happy for them. Customers continue to have the high quality they’re accustomed to.” Chris continued, “Ninety years is three full generations of families that probably touched five generations of families that had chocolate in their homes on holidays and centered around it on their most intimate family moments. It is wonderful to be part of a business that touched so many lives.” Pia continued, “We are very happy that Mark and Rachel are continuing making chocolates at that location, and they’re doing it very well.” 

Peter, Mary, John & Grandpa Aigner

One must wonder if there are any life lessons from running a chocolate shop. Chris said, “Being in service, you’re in a very special position in the world. You can change people’s experiences. Being kind and treating them with respect and dignity regardless of how short your interaction is an important life lesson.” Peter agreed and said, “We have been taught by my parents and passed that on.” 

When seeing Mark and Rachel operating the business in 2020, it reminds Peter and Pia of their younger selves. He said, “We had a lot of people who wanted to buy the business, but their heart wasn’t really in it. When we came across Mark and Rachel, there was this enthusiasm, which we felt was very important. Mark loves making chocolates, and Rachel has excellent people skills! Those are two important ingredients, and it’s similar to the talents that my wife and I had.”

Chris Aigner served as the broker in the sale. “The first year was the tricky year, since my parents and Mark and Rachel worked together nearly every day. They wanted to learn the recipes well and make sure that the transition was seamless. Then they re-branded slightly and added artistic value to the products. It has been a great experience to see them grow and take the business to the next level.” Peter continued, “When you sell a family business that has been with you for three generations, it’s a bittersweet experience. On one hand, sad, but yet it’s very happy.”

His father is one of his largest inspirations. “I would go in with my dad since I was 5 years old. I first learned how to lay out cups for nutcrackers. I would spend almost every Saturday making chocolate. Since I was a very young boy, I wanted to be a chocolatier.” Peter continued, “My dad was an Austrian confectioner who taught me the trade from a very early age. No one will teach you like your own father! My parents worked for another confectioner, since it wasn’t easy to get your own business in Europe.”

Chocolate production has evolved tremendously, according to Peter. “It helped the small manufacturers like us a lot. When I was a kid, basically all of the machinery was developed for big factories, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars. Over the years, machinery was developed, geared towards smaller manufacturers. When I was a kid, every single piece had to be rolled, cut, and dipped by hand. Over the years, we invested in machinery that automatically cut and formed chocolate.” 

Peter & John Aigner

Chris shared a story that his parents would tell him. “My great-grandfather would help out. They had professional dippers who dipped piece by piece, all day long, and set the pieces onto wax paper, fill up the tray, and put it on a rack. They would produce a whole rack in a day’s work, whereas today we can do it in a few hours. After a day’s work, he squeezed into the cooling room to get a piece of chocolate, but knocked over an entire rack. As the dipper started to scream ‘My work, my work,’ the first thing out of his mouth was ‘It wasn’t me!’ You can really picture what it was like back then.” 

The Aigner family and Kellner and Libertini are humanitarians. The tradition of raffling off an over 3-foot chocolate Easter bunny named Harvey originated in the 1980s. Most recently, it was donated to Elmhurst Hospital, the “epicenter of the epicenter” during the pandemic. Chris recalled, “My maternal grandma passed away from Alzheimer’s, and when she was sick, we started a raffle with Harvey The Bunny and gave all the proceeds to a research foundation.”

Many notables once entered Aigner’s showroom. Peter said, “I remember my father used to enjoy seeing celebrities such as Ralph Bunche, Dale Carnegie, Geraldine Ferraro, and Louis Armstrong, as well as his sister. He wouldn’t eat any other chocolates, so she would later buy it for him and send it out to Hollywood.”

The Aigner family has much to be grateful for. Since much revolves around chocolates, Chris explained, “We were able to experience the holidays in a very special way. We were surrounded by Christmas the whole month of December, and the same with Easter and Thanksgiving.” Pia added, “I will always be thankful to our customer’s loyalty.” 

Owners Rachel Kellner & Mark Libertini with the NYPD, Photo by Michael Perlman

Historic Forest Hills Banks Merit New Lease on Life & Not Demolition!

 By Michael Perlman

Banks were traditionally erected as freestanding buildings with solid construction comprised of high ceilings and classical architectural features, to instill a sense of financial stability, integrity, security, and commitment, and were regarded as community centerpieces. In Forest Hills, three bank buildings became available over the past year, echoing the neighborhood’s past, as they were designed in harmony with their surroundings. Now community residents and visitors are hopeful that their unique period details will be preserved, whether the buildings continue to operate as a bank or are adaptively reused, which has been accomplished countrywide. 

 

A “For Sale” sign was posted on the façade of Forest Hills National Bank of New York at 99-00/02 Metropolitan Avenue , which most recently operated as a branch of Chase. This Greek Revival meets Colonial building style building’s façade remains mostly intact, retaining its brick and stonework consisting of pilasters, a door surround, arched windows, and a pediment. It opened in December 1928 to primarily serve a growing community of south Forest Hills which was 22 years old at that time, whereas Rego Park was 5 years old. The Queens Chamber of Commerce’s “Queensborough” publication stated, “The capital stock of $200,000 is held for the most part by Queens Borough business men who believe in the future of the borough. The bank starts with a surplus of $50,000.” It also explained that the bank operated a Special Interest department and a Christmas Club.

Daniel J. Flynn, Vice President of Jones Lang LaSalle, a commercial real estate services company, explained that he and his colleague is currently under negotiations with a buyer. The façade’s few modifications include the uppermost arched section of the windows covered with aluminum siding, replaced windows, and the building’s original etched name also covered with aluminum. The interior has dropped ceilings, but can be eliminated to reveal distinctive details from 1928. While examining the façade, he said, “I love the look of the building. It captures a bygone era, in which materials and labor were disproportionately less expensive. At this point, the buyer fully plans to utilize the building and not modify the exterior.” Considering its ideal location, he continued, “This part of Queens serves a very important function in housing and commerce.” 

The longtime location of HSBC Bank at 107-15 Continental Avenue was home to The Williamsburgh Savings Bank in 1975 to benefit Forest Hills’ growing community. It is now available for lease and its use remains to be seen. In the 1970s, the bank appointed an architect to creatively design the façade in the Tudor style, a hallmark of Forest Hills architecture, which complements the harmonious ambiance along Austin Street, Continental Avenue, and Forest Hills Gardens. A few decades ago, the commercial district was still referred to as “The Village” by community residents. The façade remains mostly intact and includes signature half-timbering, ornamental brick and stone chimneys, a slate pitched roof, a finial, Roman numeral clock, and flagpoles. 

A leasing opportunity advertises an available 6,500 square feet with an additional mezzanine and basement. It also references heavy daytime traffic and the space’s excellent condition which remains fully built out as a bank.

As of March 1975, The Williamsburgh Savings Bank, which was incorporated in 1851, increased in resources to over $1.7 billion. An ad featuring a façade rendering read, “Get a free gift at our new Forest Hills office only for opening a new savings account of $5,000, $1,000, $500 or $200 or more during the opening celebration.” Weekly door prizes ranged from a G.E. cassette recorder or a Polaroid SX-70 camera to a Raleigh 10-speed bicycle or a Panasonic 16 in. solid state TV. Grand door prizes included a trip for two to Bermuda or Las Vegas, a choice of grandmother’s or grandfather’s clock, a G.E. washer & dryer, a Panasonic Quadruplex stereo, or a Sun Fish sailboat. Nineteen prizes for a new account of $5,000 or more included a Caravelle by Bulova, a Manning-Bowman stainless steel rotisserie broiler, and a Corelle 20-piece Livingware set by Corning. For over $1,000, 14 options included an ICP AM/FM portable radio, a Sankyo digital alarm clock, and a flight bag. 

In November 1921, the Corn Exchange Bank received permission from the State Banking Department to open a Forest Hills branch at 106-24 Continental Avenue. Now it is known as Boston Market and also consists of the recently shuttered Aldo, which is being advertised as a store for rent. Around 1922, patrons were welcomed to a prominent Tudor style brick and stone building at a major intersection. It features a pitched sweeping roof with terra-cotta tiles and a spire harmonious to the nearby Forest Hills Inn, as well as tall windows with motifs of crops and flowers. The bank’s name, etched in stone, reportedly exists underneath Boston Market’s signage. As renovations were underway in Aldo nearly ten years ago, the removal of a faux ceiling revealed a much higher curved ceiling with period details, but was only witnessed by the modern eye briefly.

In January 1928, readers of “Queensborough” learned that the firm, which began business on February 1, 1853, had eight of its more than 60 branches in Queens. It stated, “The bank has a capital of $11,000,000 and surplus and undivided profits of $16,527,000. The bank entered the Queens field on August 28, 1899, when it absorbed the Queens County Bank.” The Forest Hills branch manager was Edward L. DeForest.

“Part of the lure and rewards of exploring New York’s history is how every neighborhood has its own character,” said Riley Kellogg, an adjunct lecturer in history and a licensed NYC tour guide. My hometown’s rich history teaches us about all the people who have been drawn here for myriad reasons, and how all have contributed to building the New York City we know and love. One of the most visible, and we hope lasting marks of those characters, are a place’s architecture. The evidence of who Forest Hills has been, who it is now -- who we are now -- is there to be seen in the mix of Tudor and Classical, humble and grand, commercial and residential buildings. These former bank buildings each reveal one of the faces of this ever-growing, ever-evolving neighborhood. There are good reasons to keep our older buildings. We needn't obliterate our past in order to grow our future. In fact, the future will have stronger roots, and be sounder and more truly ours, if we build with the past, rather than demolishing and forgetting it.”

Helen Day, Richmond Hill Historical Society VP, is also concerned about Forest Hills’ historic buildings. She was surprised to see Chase closing its Metropolitan Avenue branch. “It is a lovely building that I would really like to see preserved with a new use. It is large enough for a restaurant or another bank.” She continued, “The Tudor style buildings on Continental Avenue also fit well with the neighborhood. They don’t need to go to the expense of tearing a building down or doing a complete renovation of the façade. Each one of these buildings contributes to the character and appeal of their location. It is unfortunate that the businesses are no longer there, but this is an opportunity for another business to make good use of them.”

She explained a case in point. “Many period features get covered up, but that doesn’t mean you cannot uncover them. I know of a hair salon in Ridgewood, where the owner pulled out all the modern stuff and found tin ceilings and great details that she incorporated into her décor. The interiors should have as much character as the exterior! Preserving something unique will give a special look to whatever they will open at those three Forest Hills locations.” 

Preservation Call: Forest Hills Jewish Center, A Community Cornerstone!

 By Michael Perlman  

Forest Hills and Rego Park are home to a vast collection of historic buildings that bear architectural and cultural significance. Among them is the sanctuary building of Forest Hills Jewish Center at 106-06 Queens Boulevard, situated on Rabbi Ben Zion Bokser Square, named after the congregation’s prior and longtime rabbi, who was highly influential in Conservative Judaism in the U.S. It has an adjoining religious school, recreation center, and senior center. Collaboratively, it boosts the community’s quality of life. Each period of architecture offers distinctive buildings meriting preservation. Without education, history and architecture is sometimes misunderstood and undiscovered. 

Forest Hills Jewish Center was designed by Architect Joseph J. Furman, and represents a fusion of the International Style and earlier Art Moderne style. Today, the firm operates as Furman & Furman Architects. The convex front façade bears a relationship to the street. Limestone steps with modernistic brass railings lead to varnished carved wooden doors with brass handles. Etched in limestone above the entryway is “They Shall Build Unto Us A Sanctuary” and “That I May Dwell Among Them.” Limestone surrounds hold sleek stained glass windows that depict the Burning Bush on the front and side façades. The crab-orchard rock façade, quarried from Tennessee, is reminiscent of the stone pattern of the Western (Wailing) Wall in Jerusalem; the only surviving remnant of the destroyed Holy Temple. On December 6, 1949, the synagogue received an Honorable Mention award for its excellence in design and construction in the Queens Chamber of Commerce's public buildings category. 

“This new building, raising its hands to heaven, is more than a sacred structure. It is an example of the type of thinking that will bring universal peace and solution of the problem that faces all mankind” were the bold words of New York City Mayor William O’Dwyer to 5,000 attendees on the steps of the newly dedicated Forest Hills Jewish Center on September 18, 1949. He then stated, “Sacred institutions embodied the democratic ideal and principle.” 

For the synagogue, the prospectus read, “The heart and soul of the community. Beautiful and inspiring – soaring heavenward, lifting the aspirations of our congregation.” It also introduced a chapel, main auditorium, school, library, bridal chambers, social halls, club rooms, committee rooms, a kitchen, gymnasium, and lounge. 

Right to left: Rabbi Ben-Zion Bokser, Building Committee Chair Fred Katzner, Huntington Bache great grand-nephew of Benjamin Franklin in center, Mayor O’Dwyer, & Building Committee members Emanuel Roth, John Turk, & Harvey Pearls

Photo: Architect Joseph J Furman & Rabbi Ben-Zion Bokser overlook the 1947 FHJC cornerstone

The first synagogue was organized in 1931 in a frame house on Kessel Street, and then a 2-story synagogue was erected on site. Later on, the Queens Boulevard cornerstone was laid in 1947, and incorporated one stone from the Holy Land and another from a desecrated synagogue’s ruins in Frankfort on the Main, Germany. The cornerstone reads, “That The World May Be Perfected Under The Kingdom Of The Almighty (1947/ 5708).” The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Rabbi Ben-Zion Bokser, Chair of Building Committee Fred Katzner, Huntington Bache; great grand-nephew of Benjamin Franklin, Mayor O’Dwyer, and Building Committee members Emanuel Roth, John Turk, and Harvey Pearlstein. 

Stepping into the synagogue’s 1,400-seat sanctuary, the charming ambiance is embellished by stained glass windows and the Aron Kodesh (Holy Ark). The over 20-feet high elaborate golden ark depicts Judaic traditions and holidays, and was designed by the famed artist Arthur Szyk. This was his first 3D creation for a synagogue, and resembles the breastplate of a Torah scroll. It is considered unique how a Torah design element can serve as an inspiration for a larger than life model, which houses the Torah. Historians and critics consider the Ark to be one of the greatest works of 20th century Judaic art. Two of Szyk’s candelabras sit adjacent.

According to the Arthur Szyk Society, Szyk’s art was his means to promote ethnic and religious tolerance, human dignity, and social justice. Syzk worked in the tradition of 16th century miniaturist painters utilizing text and illustrations. The famed Szyk Haggadah was given to Forest Hills Jewish Center. It became a work of hope and courage during Hitler’s rise. It addressed the era’s politics paired with earlier oppression. Referring to WWII, Szyk told the New York Daily Mirror on April 10, 1941, “The Revolution America fought was an ideal that any artist could thrill to. Today art must be almost negatively directed against a force that destroys all ideals. But no true artist has the right to avoid using his strength to strike at the darkness." The Times of London referred to his work to be “among the most beautiful ever produced by the hand of man.” Szyk is considered by art critics to be the greatest illuminator of the past four centuries.

In the late 1940s, a synagogue building boom was underway, especially in the suburbs. Religious persecution and tragedies of the Holocaust were fresh in the consciousness of Americans, resulting in renewed interest in Judaism, and Forest Hills Jewish Center is a physical example of how they persevered with forward thinking and community-oriented faith. The year 1948 also coincided with the new state of Israel, tying into religious pride. The December 1948 issue of “Interiors & Industrial Design” referred to Forest Hills Jewish Center’s style as “a radical departure from the usual Moorish and Oriental style of synagogue architecture.”

Mitchell Grubler, president of Queens Preservation Council, called the synagogue a prime example of post-WWII modernist synagogue architecture. He explained, “After the Second World War, the design of synagogues moved away from traditional Old World influences and embraced a modernist aesthetic. The Forest Hills complex embodies the spirit, design and social philosophies of midcentury Judaism. The temple complex was intended to not only serve a growing suburban Jewish population after WWII, but also to benefit and be open to the wider community with recreational services.” 

Forest Hills Jewish Center is often a subject on Forest Hills history and Mid-Century Modern walking tours. Architectural historian and tour guide Frampton Tolbert also had much to express in the name of preservation. He founded an innovative website, “Queens Modern,” to largely chronicle the period of 1948 to 1970, when the Queens Chamber of Commerce recognized nearly 400 Queens buildings at its annual building awards program. He said, “Forest Hills Jewish Center is a jewel of the neighborhood. The restrained Modern design, including Crab-Orchard stone cladding across a convex facade, is highly visible from MacDonald Park. I have been pleased to include the building as a featured site on my annual tour of Forest Hills architecture.”

Coronavirus Relief Initiative – Local volunteers ready to serve our community!

Coronavirus Relief Initiative – Local volunteers ready to serve our community by offering services including supplies, food, & conversation. All volunteers are strongly advised to wear a face mask & gloves!

** Annamaria Girardi: amgirardidolfini@gmail.com & 347-272-6149

https://www.facebook.com/annamaria.girardi.77

** Thomas Mei: thomas.mei@gmail.com & 718-909-5874

https://www.facebook.com/ThomasMei

** Peter Fleming: pjfleming@verizon.net & 917-584-9900

** Anna Demetrashvili: Ademetra@aol.com & 646-775-1949 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100011513072487

** Nathania Horowitz: Nathaniajayne@yahoo.com

https://www.facebook.com/nathania.kurtz

**Marie DiBella: Mariedibella@gmail.com  

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008197146975

** Alexandra Kay: Iluvelyfe@yahoo.com

https://www.facebook.com/alexkay459 

** Tiffany Pierce: tiffanyspierce@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=546490715

** Gabriella Golan: gabgabgo@gmail.com 

https://www.facebook.com/gabriella.golan

** Roger Mashihi: (347) 489-6828

https://www.facebook.com/roger.mashihi 

** Yvonne Scibelli: ynagan@optonline.net

https://www.facebook.com/yvonne.scibelli

** Cari Cohen: cbccohen@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/cari.cohen.16

** Elizabeth Stoddard: larubiachula33@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/LaRubiaChula31

** Marlene Meltz: https://www.facebook.com/marlene.meltz.1  

** Patty Bugland: lisabugland@aol.com & itsmsbug@aol.com  

https://www.facebook.com/patty.bugland

** Amy Beth Goldman: amybeth4@aol.com  

https://www.facebook.com/amy.b.goldman.7

** Paige Cragg & her husband: plc.cragg@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/paige.c.cragg

** Christine Liem & husband Chris: itschrismail@yahoo.com 

https://www.facebook.com/christine.mei.liem

** Astrid Munera & Elkin Verona: astrmuar@hotmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/astrid.munera 

** Madiha Zoobear: madihaz1987@gmail.com 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008854562229

** Yael Yomtov-Emmanuel: yaelyom@aol.com

https://www.facebook.com/yael.yomtovemmanuel 

** Jessica Keller & Noel John: jkeller.interiors@yahoo.com & noeljohn1986@yahoo.com

https://www.facebook.com/jessicalkelle

** Congressional candidate Sandra Choi: sandra.choix@gmail.com & 347-286-1140

https://www.facebook.com/schoi13

** Bruce Goerlich: 917-592-8335

** Batya Kaufman: Batya.S.Kaufman@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/batyak

** Dina Bouzier Murphy: dbouzier@yahoo.com

https://www.facebook.com/DinaBouzier

** Cristina Liparulo: cparadelo@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100019876297484 

** Mickey Blume-Zacarias: M2zacarias@yahoo.com 

https://www.facebook.com/mikael.blumezacarias 

** Marla Kleinman: mpkleinman@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/marla.kleinman.9 

** Melanie Rudolfo: Mrudolfo1@aol.com

https://www.facebook.com/melanie.rudolfo

** Helaine Lu: lainey557@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/Laineylu.xo 

** Jessica Crespo: jessicafcr@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/jessica.fcr 

** Patricia Bernard: Patriciabernard9@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/patriciabb

** Yvette Jong: Yvettejong@gmail.com & 718-5444037

https://www.facebook.com/yvette.jong 

** David C. Vitt : dcvitt@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/dcvitt
Donating his time in honor of his employer, Farmingdale State College.

** Mike Arcati, Forest Hills American Legion Post Advocate: michaelarcati@outlook.com & 646-512-1359

“We want the community to know that the American Legion Post's members and building is available to help in the best capacity possible.  Our initial thought is to connect with a local hospital and make our location either a testing/vaccination site or a triage location.  As an alternative, it can be a location to collect supplies, for volunteers to meet & gather supplies to deliver to community members who cannot leave their homes.” 

** Kim Collins, The Bowery Mission: kcollins@bowery.org

In need of critical supplies and food as we feed and shelter those who have no home.

https://www.facebook.com/kimcollins7 & https://www.bowery.org

** Questions? Contact founder Michael Perlman, co-admin of Forest Hills, Rego Park, Kew Gardens – “Our Communities”

 unlockthevault@hotmail.com & mperlman@queensledger.com 

https://www.facebook.com/MichaelHPerlman