Back to School - Fall Guide - Queens Chronicle

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2023 E D I U G L L D FA AN

Back to School & Fall Guide 2023

QUEENS

KNOWLEDGE IS A WONDERF WONDERFUL GIFT TO GIVE…

CONTENTS

BACK TO SCHOOL

Welcome Back-To-School

• When you build it they will enroll . . . . . . . . . . . 4 • Charters offer parents a key choice . . . . . . . . 6 • Many have faith in Catholic schools . . . . . . . . 8 • Expanding curricula to embrace all . . . . . . . . 10 • Sports and the well-rounded student . . . . . . 12 • Fashion trends dress up the casual. . . . . . . . .14 • Your 2023-24 city school calendar . . . . . . . . 16

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• Community theater is just the ticket . . . . . . . 18 • On view at galleries and museums . . . . . . . . 20 • A day da trip to the Pocono Mountains . . . . . . . 22 • Mets can make moves off-season. . . . . . . . . 24 Recipes both simple and complex . . . . . . . . 26 • Reci Publisher: Mark Weidler Supplement editor: Peter C. Mastrosimone Editorial layout: Gregg Cohen Cover and section design: Jan Schulman

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Buildings, additions bring more seats

by Kristen Guglielmo

gymnasium and the auditorium. It’s fully functional.”

The SCA is used to building schools The 2023-24 school year is right around the corner, and with the new year comes while working with a minimal amount of new Queens public schools, and additions to space. “Sometimes we build schools with as little as 20,000 square feet,” Ortiz said. some existing ones.

In addition to the gymatorium, which IS 429, a new District 30 middle school located at 47-10 Barnett Ave. in Sunnyside, comes complete with bleachers, basketball nets and a stage with a baby grand piano, IS is set to open this September with 725 seats.

The school refers to itself as a “STEAM” 429 has a fitness classroom with padded school — meaning the curriculum includes walls for other movement-related activities.

The school also follows green guidelines, a special focus on science, technology, engioperating fully electric with no usage of fosneering, arts and math.

“It’s an educational approach that inte- sil fuels. That can be attributed to the SCA’s grates these subjects into a cohesive learn- effort to ensure all future city schools will be fully electric. ing paradigm based on real-world applicaAdd it ion al ly, IS 429 is tions,” the school’s website wheelchair-accessible, another detailed. priority for the SCA when The state-of-the-art midbuilding new establishments. dle school is one of 10 new As an added touch, each schools opening citywide, new school being built by the and one of 32 new Queens SCA will receive new artbuildings in the 2020-24 work exclusive to that specifSchool Construction Authoriic institution. IS 429 has Expanded ty’s Capital Plan, according two large pieces of artto Kevin Ortiz, the direcs e c a p s work hung in the halltor of communications for ways on the school’s first the SCA, who took the floor, by José Carlos Casado Chronicle on an exclusive Mancha, a New York-based tour of the new multimedia artist from Spain. establishment.

It’s safe to say the SCA is proud of the IS 429, where construction began in 2019, has 24 classrooms and two special education work they have done in building the new classrooms, Or tiz shared. The space middle school.

“IS 429 is the embodiment of everything includes a reading and speech resource room, a science lab with demo and prep we do at the SCA,” said Nina Kubota, presirooms, art classrooms, a music suite, a dent and chief executive officer of the agenlibrary, a gymatorium (a gymnasium and cy. “We are addressing overcrowding, espeauditorium, combined), an outdoor play cially in Queens, while providing our stuspace, a staff lunch room, a parent room and dents with the state-of-the-art facilities they an administrative suite. The hallways are need to learn and grow.”

Asked if the layout and design for IS 429 brightly lit and spacious, with each floor is the same as other schools, Ortiz conhaving its own dedicated color scheme.

Ortiz clarified why the school has a sin- firmed it is not.

“We have various types of spaces we gle combined gymatorium instead of two have to work with,” he explained, “We have separate areas.

“There are certain locations, this one a combination of in-house architects and being one of them, that in terms of foot- designers, and for other locations, we may print, we aren’t dealing with a lot of square hire consultants.”

In the case of IS 429, Ortiz said the footage,” he explained. “So we maximize the space by combining them both, the school was designed completely by archiAssociate Editor

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School

IS 429, a new middle school in Sunnyside, is ready to open for the 2023-24 school year. The school comes equipped with 24 classrooms, like the one seen above. PHOTOS BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO tects from the SCA. Other new school buildings opening for the year include the replacement building for PS/MS 47, the Chris Galas School, in District 27 in Broad Channel, which has been under construction since 2022 after the old building was demolished in 2021 to facilitate construction of the new space. The school’s previous building was at 140 percent capacity before suffering extensive storm damage from Hurricane Sandy in 2012.

PS/MS 47’s new space will be located at 9 Power Road in Broad Channel. The school capacity is on the smaller side, with 260 seats, and teaches students from pre-K through eighth grade.

Waterside Children’s Studio School, also in District 27 and otherwise known as PS 317, will relocate to 140 Beach 112 St. in Rockaway under a new lease. The school will operate at a capacity of 463 seats and welcome students from pre-K through fifth grade.

In terms of new seats, District 26’s PS 46, the Alley Pond School, located at 64-45 218 St. in Oakland Gardens, will be adding 435

seats to its capacity.

Also in Oakland Gardens and part of District 26, Cardozo High School will have 795 additional seats added at 221-15 58 Ave. Cardozo High School is also receiving exciting new creative amenities for its students, such as a mock courtroom and a television studio, Ortiz said.

PS 206, The Horace Harding School, located at 61-01 97 Place in District 28, in Rego Park, will see 392 seats added to its capacity this year.

According to Ortiz, the additional capacity in those Queens locations is part of the 4,422 new seats being added across schools citywide.

As part of the SCA Capital Plan, Ortiz shared that 45,000 seats will be added citywide, with Queens getting 32 new buildings and 18,735 seats. Those numbers, however, do not include seats for early childhood (pre-K or 3K).

Early-childhood schools will see 15 locations and 2,100 seats added citywide under the SCA Capital Plan. Since the program’s inception, 16,000 early childhood seats have Q been added, Ortiz said.

From left to right: A view into the kitchen area of IS 429’s spacious cafeteria; exclusive artwork in a hallway on the school’s first floor, by José Carlos Casado Mancha; and part of the school’s gymatorium — a combined gymnasium and auditorium.

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Free Public Charter Schools Escuelas charter publicas gratuitas en Queens SD 24, SD 27, SD 30 • Rigorous academic curriculum Plan de estudios riguroso • Spanish beginning in Kindergarten Español comenzando en Kindergarten • ICT program/SETTS Programaa de Co-enseñanza integrada • Study of world cultures Estudio de las culturas del mundo

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• Physical Education, Arts & Music integrated into curriculum Educación física, arte y música integrado en el currículo • Social-emotional learning Aprendizaje socioemocional • Robust technology program Programa tecnológico robusto • Free breakfast & lunch Desayuno y almuerzo gratuitos

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Por favor contacte a la Oficina de Admisión

Page 5 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023

Our World Neighborhood Charter Schools

Educating our students to be independent thinkers and lifelong learners

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Congratulations to the Class of 2023 on their achievement earning over $178 million in scholarships.

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Charters take pride in personalization

by Kristen Guglielmo

about their child’s unique needs.

Parents are the experts on their chilWhile traditional, district public dren. Charter schools offer the schools remain the default choice opportunity for different programs for most New York City parents, and models to provide additional charter schools can be a viable choices and opportunities for paroption to optimize a child’s educa- ents,” she added. “Choosing where tion, according to their administra- your child goes to school is one of tors and supporters. Queens is home the most important things a parent to 27 charter schools serving nearly can do.”

A representative from Success 15,000 students, according to the New York City Charter Schools Academy, a network of charter schools around NYC with multiple Center website.

Free to attend, the schools are Queens locations, shared a statedescribed by the New York Char- ment on behalf of the organization: ters Schools Association as “public “Success Academy is a great choice schools that offer personalized for parents looking for strong acalearning experiences for students, demic outcomes, unique arts and no matter their needs, circumstanc- athletic opportunities and robust es and learning styles.” According communication between teachers to the city Department of Educa- and families. It’s a K-12 experience tion, charters give enrollment pref- that guarantees placement in higherences to returning students, sib- quality middle and high schools, where 100 percent of lings of enrolled students and stugraduates to date have dents in the same been accepted to fourcommunity year colleges.” school district. If The statement conthe number of stutinued, “According to dents who apply to a recent report from a charter school is Stanford University’s mo r e t h a n t h e CR EDO, Success number of availt u b Public Academy leads the able seats, schools l city and nation in will use a ranontraditiona n learning, deliverdom selection ing the equivalent of process, such as more than 100 extra a lottery. days of learning in A n n a H a l l, reading and 200+ days in math.” t h e C E O of t h e The institution stated that the Northeast Charter Schools Network, which includes the New York majority of Success Academy Charter Schools Association, spoke scholars are children of color from to the Chronicle about parents mak- low-income households in disading the choice between charters and vantaged neighborhoods, admitted through a random public lottery. other schools.

Last summer, Success Academy “I think the most important thing is that parents have the ability and shared that its Queens eighth-gradthe opportunity to access whatever ers did exceptionally well on type of school is best for their child, Regents exams. According to a repand I don’t necessarily think that’s resentative of the school, 100 percent of students passed the Algebra always a charter school,” Hall said.

“It’s about the opportunity for Regents by the state’s standard of 65 every parent to make a decision percent, and 86.3 percent passed by Associate Editor

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School

Queens is home to a number of charter schools, including Forte Preparatory Academy in Elmhurst, seen above. Charters pride themselves on personalized learning experiences for children. Is it time to consider a charter school PHOTOS COURTESY FORTE PREPARATORY ACADEMY VIA AMY MCGEADY instead of a traditional district public school? the school’s standard of 80 percent.

Charter schools often receive heat from some parents and educators. Critics say the schools’ higherthan-average test scores may be the result of their denying entry to students based on academics, or expelling those who average lower on exams or have behavioral issues.

“In our experience, most families prefer calm, orderly classrooms over disruptive, chaotic ones,” a representative from Success Academy said. “We take the safety of our students and staff seriously, and while we are strict, we have expelled only two students during the 18 years since we opened our first school.”

Hall also spoke to the criticism, saying, “I think people often think that charter folks are opposed to traditional district schools. And in my experience, that’s not the case.

We’re not anti-district, we’re pro-

parents and pro-child. ... It’s always important for parents to be as involved as they possibly can be and understand what goes on in their child’s school, whether it’s a district school or a charter school, and to really work in partnership with the school to ultimately support their child, regardless of where they go.”

Asked whether charter schools are a viable option for the influx of migrant children arriving in the city, Hall responded, “Oh, definitely. There are a lot of charter schools that have really specifically extended themselves and their school community to migrants. I think what’s often the case with charter schools is that they’re actually incredibly interested in reaching those communities.”

She continued, “But the infrastructure that gets set up around transition planning and housing

typically excludes charters. In many cases, oftentimes charters have to really sort of go above and beyond to make sure that newcomers to a community are actually aware of charters because they are relatively unique. But there are a lot of charters in New York City that have really pur posefully thought to serve migrants.”

One parent, Dianne Jenkins of Rosedale, told the Chronicle, “I never considered a charter before until I kept hearing people talk about how good they can be. My oldest graduated from a public school, but I’m considering a charter school for my youngest when he’s ready for middle school.”

Asked which schools she is consider ing, Jen k ins sa id, “Whichever seems the best when it comes time to enroll. Actually, no, he’ll go wherever he can get Q on the lottery list.”

From left to right: Two students work on an activity together, a teacher aids a student with an assignment and eager students observe a lesson at Forte Preparatory Academy.

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WHEN Within two years of approval WHERE Community School Districts 24, 25, 26, and 28

GRADES Commencing with Kindergarten and 1st grade and growing to serve preK-12th grade.

Page 7 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023

SUCCESS ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOLS—NYC is applying to open new free high quality public charter schools in Queens. We’re proud that 100% of our high school graduates were accepted to competitive four year colleges.

To learn more about Success Academy’s proposed new schools, please visit: http://successacademies.org/newschools We encourage your input: NewSchools@SuccessAcademies.org

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Putting one’s faith in education

by Kristen Guglielmo

more on their interests.

“We develop our curriculum and our “For schools, I’ve never really considered opportunities based on the needs of our students. We are able to individualize the eduanything else,” said Forest Hills parent cation for each student to give them the full Maria Ramos.

Ramos, like many others, had an impor- experience to develop themselves as a pertant choice to make this summer — she had son and not just the students.”

Though much of the school’s curriculum to pick a school for her kindergartner. is indeed faith-based, Ferguson said students When thinking about which school is of all religious backgrounds are welcome at right for her daughter, it was a no-brainer: Mary Louis. The same is true at “She’s going to a Catholic other Catholic schools, accordschool.” ing to the website for the ArchFaith-based schools may diocese of New York. “Everybe the right choice for famithing we do is rooted in dignilies who prioritize religion ty for the human person and but still want a thorough our Catholic faith tradition, academic experience. and we offer this to everyEllen Ferguson, the direcone,” it read. tor of recruitment and marCatholic Holy Cross High keting for The Mary Louis n o Foundati School, a co-ed institution Academy, the all-girls in Flushing, also takes Catholic high school in pride in its curriculum.

Jamaica Estates, spoke on “Holy Cross offers stuthe highlights of enrolling dent-centric classrooms with high in a Catholic school.

“I feel that being part of a Catholic academics focused on student achievement,” said Andrea Aloi, director of admissions at school gives students the opportunity to be Holy Cross. “Our students are not only prepart of something more than just their education,” she said. “I believe Catholic pared for the next steps in their education schools, especially Mary Louis, help devel- and careers but also instilled with a strong op the whole child and give them the oppor- moral code and are best prepared to be the leaders of tomorrow.” tunities to experience and study or focus Associate Editor

School

A group of students from The Mary Louis Academy, the Catholic high school in Jamaica Estates, PHOTO COURTESY THE MARY LOUIS ACADEMY bond outside of lessons.

Catholic schools also foster a more personal, familial bond among students and educators, according to some faculty.

“We have very much of a family feel, where I find that some of that may be missing at some public schools,” said Jonathan DiDonato, director of admissions, engagement and media at Archbishop Molloy High

School in Briarwood. “I see warmth in the hallways. I think Molloy excels at that feeling of family. That’s something that we always preach, but we truly feel it, we see it and we experience it.”

“I love to tell people that coming to Catholic schools is like an extension of family,” Q Ferguson said.

TO KNOW. TO LOVE. TO SERVE.

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Save the Date - Open House October 15, 2023 holycrosshs.org/RSVP Educating the Hearts and Minds of Young Men and Women

• 13:1 Student-to-teacher ratio • Over 45 Honors and AP Courses offered • 30 Athletic Teams • 50 + Clubs and Organizations • Over $1,000,000 dollars invested in our STREAM program • Every incoming freshman is provided with a Chromebook and full access to the Google Apps for Education • Class of 2023 earned over $61,000,000 in academic scholarships • 100% graduation rate For more information contact admissions at: 718-886-7250 x 524 or text 631-600-3346 Email admissions@holycrosshs.org

TACHS Prep Program

Holy Cross High School is proud to offer a rigorous 6-week program for boys and girls to best prepare for the TACHS exam.

Over the span of 6 weeks students enrolled in our program will participate in face-to-face instruction and review mathematics and language skills that are assessed on the Test for Admission into Catholic High School (TACHS) exam.

Historically, students that attend a prep-class are better prepared and score higher on the exam.

To enroll or for more information visit www.holycrosshs.org/tachsprep/ 26-20 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing, NY 11358

HOHS-082382

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average class size

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THROUGH A RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF ACADEMIC, COMMUNITY, AND PERSONAL EXCELLENCE, FORTE PREPARATORY ACADEMY CHARTER SCHOOLS EQUIP ALL STUDENTS TO BECOME THE NEXT GENERATION OF LEADERS IN QUEENS AND BEYOND.

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Teaching more diverse histories

by Sophie Krichevsky

known as the Hidden Voices initiative, which, according to the Department of EduThe resurgence of the Black Lives Matter cation, provides teachers with resources to Movement following the police killing of teach students about their own backgrounds George Floyd in 2020 sparked discussion as well as their peers’.

“Diversity makes up the very fabric of our about anti-racism throughout the country. As b o o k s l i k e R o b i n D i A n g e l o ’ s communities, our neighborhoods, and our “White Fragility” and “Between the World classrooms, and it is our responsibility as the and Me” by Ta-Naheisi Coates shot to the top largest school district in the country to bring of bestseller lists, many began to urge for these lessons into all of our classrooms, reform in a plethora of fields and institu- starting with kindergarten,” DOE spokespertions. That includes changes to school curri- son Nicole Brownstein told the Chronicle via cula to discuss the contributions of marginal- email.

“The Hidden Voices initiative is one way ized groups to American history.

While that has not been met with open that educators can bring in the strengths and arms everywhere, New York City has been backgrounds of their students into everyday taking steps toward teaching a more inclu- classroom instruction.”

The DOE has unveiled Hidden Voices sive curriculum. But what is being taught in guides regarding LGBTQ+ people, Asian schools come September?

Former City Councilman and educator American and Pacific Islander people in U.S. Danny Dromm noted that New York City history along with the “untold stories” of and New York State have made long overdue New York City history so far. The departstrides in mandating more comprehensive ment also has plans to release similar school curricula. It was not until 1994 that resources for teaching about Black history, schools were required to teach about slavery Latino history and the history of Americans and the Holocaust; in 1996, the state mandat- with disabilities.

Meanwhile, the city has been piloting a ed the teaching of the Irish Potato Famine.

“When I was a councilmember, one of the Black studies curriculum in Harlem and in things that we wanted to do was infuse Queens’ own District 29. The program was LGBTQ history and education beyond anti- developed in partnership with the Education bullying measures,” Dromm recalled to the Equity Action Plan Coalition, a group of several activist organizations working to Chronicle.

He worked to do that through various pro- support Black educators and students. The grams and initiatives through his time on the city is expected to make an announcement Council, which he was term-limited out of in about implementing it systemwide sometime December 2021. Among others, those efforts this fall.

Most of that curriculum, said Adrian included providing schools with sets of books by authors of color and LGBTQ+ Straker, president of the Association of Black authors and teaching about earlier LGBTQ+ Educators of New York, will be integrated figures — before the Stonewall uprising in into schools’ social studies programs.

The Black history pilot has been designed 1969 — like activist Marsha P. Johnson and for kindergartners, fourth-, ninth- and 10thcivil rights leader Bayard Rustin.

“It took almost 25-plus years to turn that graders, Straker said. Highlights include lessituation around to a place today where we sons on Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. do have some LGBTQ programming going DuBois, Marcus Garvey, Marie Van Brittan in the schools — unfortunately, it’s not sys- Browne — the Jamaica, Queens, native who tem-wide, but it has made significant chang- invented the first home security system — es,” Dromm said. “They do have a curricu- and even a lesson on Mali’s ancient communilum that they do offer to teachers, although I ties for kindergartners. Straker added that teachers, many of whom have weighed in on believe it’s optional.”

The program Dromm was referring to is the curriculum and have taken part in workshops about how to implement it, have expressed excitement about it.

But Shango Blake, president of Black Edf luencers United, emphasized that studying the Black d ia spor a would not be an addition to the curriculum; rather, it would complement wh at is a l r e a dy being taught. He poi nted to I r ish immigration to the United States as an Educators are learning how to integrate more diverse histories into their exa mple — st uPHOTO COURTESY SHANGO BLAKE / BE- U dents would also lessons and pedagogies.

Associate Editor

Schools across New York City and State are working to teach histories more reflective of the stuPHOTO BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF / FILE dents in their classrooms. learn about Black people’s journeys and con- is by eradicating the ignorance.”

Several other bills focusing on the teaching tributions to the United States, be they from Haiti, the Dominican Republic or Jamaica, to of LGBTQ+ history and about hate crimes are also pending in the Legislature. name a few.

Those working to make school curriculums “This is not a replacement — this is an enhancement of the curriculum,” he told the more diverse are well aware of the pushback Chronicle. “Our focus is to right a historic, to critical race theory — a legal concept that wrong, so that our children can see the examines the way race has been embedded into public policy and institutions reflections and the contributions that they — across the country. have given to the develop“If we’re going to talk Black ment of the world and to the history, this sounds familiar — development of America.” this sounds like the same parMitch Klages-Bombich, a ents that said it would do ‘irrepbehavioral specialist who arable damage’ to their chilworks on inclusive curricula dren to have Black students go with the United Federation of to their schools,” Blake said.

Teachers, made a similar point in y Inclusivit “It’s the same rhetoric.” in regard to the teaching of m lu u ic Dromm, too, looked at LGBTQ+ history. rr u c e th the opposition in historical “Educators are bringing context — just closer to a lens of equity and diverhome. Asked about demonsity, culturally responsive strations against Drag Story education and history as Hour, the reading events designed to celebrate they’re lesson planning — it’s something that is being just infused in the cur- gender diversity, he looked back at the riculum naturally, it’s not something that is response to the Children of the Rainbow initiative, a 1991 effort to aid in the teaching of being imposed,” he said.

Klages-Bombich also said there is “no multicultural issues. Dromm recalled “busblanket curriculum,” which allows teachers to loads” of people protesting the program outtailor to the needs of their students’ side the Department of Education.

“With Drag Queen Story Hour, that’s the backgrounds.

The state Legislature is also considering same misrepresentations that happened during bills that would require the teaching of AAPI Children of the Rainbow,” he said. “In those history. The bill, sponsored by state Sen. John days, they called us ‘recruiters.’ Now they call Liu (D-Flushing), has only been passed in the us ‘groomers.’”

Dromm thought back to an early Drag Senate.

“There’s very little reference to Asian Story Hour he attended with Queens Public Americans or the contributions thereof, in the Library President and CEO Dennis Walcott teaching of American history — there’s the and former Rep. Joe Crowley.

“The drag queen asked the kids, ‘Does anyrequisite mention of the completion of the railroads, the mention of the prison camps during body here know what a drag queen is?’” he World War II, but little else,” said Liu, who recalled. “And this little kid raised his hand chairs the Senate’s New York City Education and says, ‘Yes, a drag queen is somebody who Committee. “We have clearly seen an unprec- reads stories to you.’

“That was beautiful, because that’s all they edented few years of anti-Asian hate. And the root cause of hate is ignorance. The only way saw — they didn’t see the difference,” Dromm we can actually eradicate hate in the long term added. “[Kids] have to be taught to hate.” Q

School

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Smart Supportive Empowering Leading Faith-based Friendly Active Challenging Diverse Prestigious Vibrant Imaginative Rigorous Familiar

YOU

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023

A few words about The Mary Louis Academy:

Visit us at our Open House on Oct. 22 10am-3pm.

You’ll find we’re as good as our word.

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J o in u s for our 25t h ry A n n iv e r s a n C e le b r a t io at H a ll C a r n e g ie on r 18 t h N ove m b e m a t 1: 0 0 p

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023 Page 12

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Student athletes, student leaders

by Michael Gannon

The PSAL will be reaching out to its student athletes where they can be found these Tryouts and practices for fall high school days — on social media.

The city also is working with private busisports were well underway before the end of summer, long before rosters are finalized and nesses and business leaders, as well as college and professional sports teams, to provide uniforms handed out.

But officials with the Public School Ath- students with opportunities.

Lastly, through each sport, PSAL teams letic League and the Catholic High School Athletic Association also have spent their and programs will be instructed to implesummers helping student athletes succeed off ment service projects within their communities to build leadership and mentoring skills. the playing field.

Vulpis said the CHSAA effort has compoBoth organizations have been working on fostering leadership skills. And both organi- nents for athletes, coaches and parents. The zations believe their programs will help the philosophy is to let schools run their athletic programs “within a context that holds paracommunity at large as well as their students. mount the academic and religious “Athletics work within the framework of programs of member schools our schools,” Dominic Vuland the academic, spiritual and pis, executive director for personal growth of the student the CHSAA’s schools in participants.”

Queens and Brooklyn, said Vulpis said the CHSAA in an interview with the does not want its schools, parChronicle. ticularly those with tradition“Why? Because it’s part of ally strong athletic programs, their becoming part of the Sports to be seen by parents merewhole community,” Vulpis ly as someplace where added. “How well you do s e u g a le athletics are just considwith life on the playing ered an oppor t u nit y to fields is important to how secure a college scholarship. you will deal with life in “As opposed to usi ng reality ... It’s a matter of [sports] as an extracurricular activity that’s keeping the ‘C’ in Catholic for going to groom them in different aspects of the CHSAA.” A spokeswoman for the PSAL, which gov- life,” Vulpis said. “It’s not just about sports. erns 57 sports at New York City’s public It’s more about building an individual for schools, said league officials are following a life.”

Everything started with a meeting of prinsimilar path, including planning for athletes’ futures, and molding them into people who cipals and athletic directors back in June to will serve the communities they will be a bring everyone in on the plans. Student initiatives took place over the summer. part of.

“One of the things that we were finding is “Sports and athletics are a critical component in the lives of many of our young peo- that hiring coaches — schools hire their own ple, teaching them important social and emo- individual coaches — it’s not like yestertional lessons, including teamwork and disci- year,” Vulpis said. “A lot of coaches of yespline, as well as helping them to perform bet- teryear were your physical education teachter in the classroom,” the spokeswoman told ers, coaches. Now what is happening is that a the Chronicle in an email. “This upcoming lot of coaches are coming from the ranks of school year we’re focused on ensuring our youth coaching, travel teams. The philosophy students have access to the programs they’re is different. The philosophy is win at all cost. interested in and collaborating with profes- We used to see coaches who are teachers.

They were in doctrine with the community. sional partners across New York City.”

Senior News Editor

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School

St. John’s Preparatory School brought the 2023 CHSAA baseball title back home to Astoria.

The softball team at Archbishop Molloy High School in Briarwood won the 2023 championship in the Catholic High School Athletic Association of Brooklyn and Queens. With new programs incorporating players, coaches and parents, the CHSAA and the city’s Public School Athletic League are looking to craft champion student leaders as well as champion athletes. PHOTOS BY DENISE HILLIG They were in doctrine with the Catholic Church itself ... But we’re not getting them anymore.”

The new initiative stresses teaching.

“We’re putting something in writing for athletic directors to work from with their coaches,” he said. “How to go about coaching in this league, and what’s expected of them.”

The new procedures also offer avenues of redress for a coach who believes his or her team has been poorly or unfairly treated in some aspect of a contest; or a coach who is confronted with in-game problems such as the possibility of running up the score or a game getting out of hand when the schedule hands his or her team a badly overmatched opponent.

“Coaches can turn those things over to the league and let them sort it out,” Vulpis said.

He said the student section of the initiative also began back in June.

“We knew in getting this plan, we need to reach out to the students themselves,” he said.

“How do you do something like that, have them come through in a leadership role?

What role do student leaders play in the development of other athletes, their teams?”

Officials opted for a student leadership course offered by the National Federation of High Schools. Athletic directors were tasked with selecting two students from their schools, one male, one female. A single student was chosen from each boys’ or girls’ school. The students took the coursework online on their own time.

“It gets them into the development of leadership qualities that are needed to bring the other student along,” Vulpis said.

A PowerPoint presentation for athletics personnel this summer stressed the need for the schools and coaching staffs to use sports to teach things like personal accountability, self-control, commitment and dedication to

pursuing excellence.

And, finally, the ability to win or lose gracefully, with the ability to go back to the grind after even the toughest loss.

The third point of the trident is getting parents to buy into the educational mission rather than just the athletic competition, particularly those who see sports as a college scholarship opportunity.

He said some parents are not accepting of their child not making the starting five, or of being cut from a team altogether. Some, he said, even threaten to sue.

Parents’ comportment and conduct at a game or match also now will come under more control of the league office.

“We never really had anything to do with [disciplining] a parent,” Vulpis said. “The schools would do their own disciplining. But now the schools have come back to the league saying, ‘We need the help. It’s become so rampant.’”

There now will be standard, uniform regulations for parental conduct, rather than allowing parents at some schools to get away with unacceptable behavior that was not tolerated elsewhere.

Vulpis said one set of conduct disciplinary standards also will offer protection for coaches and athletic directors, as the league will be the final arbiter of any complaint rather than having it settled at their children’s school.

Vulpis pointed out that high school sports are not an inexpensive undertaking. The aim of the new initiatives, he said, is to improve the sports, the students and the schools.

“It’s the backbone, the basis for everything that comes afterward,” Vulpis said. “If we don’t incorporate the values we want in an athletic program, a system that reinforces what we teach in the classroom, then why are we doing this? Why are we spending the Q money?”

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PRE-HUNG DOORS, IRON SECURITY DOORS, ANDERSEN STORM DOORS

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023 Page 14

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Styles as cool as a fall breeze

by Stephanie G. Meditz

look, while sporty types may pair basketball shorts with a hooded Though students may still be in sweatshirt and denim jacket. If the vacation mode, back-to-school weather permits, cargo shorts with season has arrived. The heat might a polo or other smart collared shirt stick around for a few more weeks, create a timeless look.

Students who are more advenbut orange and brown leaves will continue to fall, with crisp autumn turous with their style might even air not far behind. If you’re look- curate their wardrobe to match a ing for a bargain on trendy back- certain aesthetic tailored to their to-school wear or a new wardrobe individual tastes and personalities.

Macken zie Dor ward and for your new college student, George Coronel, employees at Queens is the place to be.

Denim will be a wardrobe sta- Other People’s Clothes in Ridgeple for students of all ages this fall. wood, spoke to the ever-increasing While the weather is still warm, popularity of the “Y2K” aesthetic, girls may opt for a denim jumper which includes bright colors and and brightly colored T-shirt for a pieces reminiscent of the late ’90s feminine yet comfortable look. and early 2000s, such as low-rise When the temperature drops, you jeans and velour tracksuits. Anothmay want to send them to class er common aesthetic, known as with a warm flannel or trade their “cottagecore,” is characterized by l ig ht- c olo r e d pu f f d resses for some sleeve blouses and jeans with a gunny sack dresses. relaxed fit.

With their lace-up Bagg y jea ns bodice and f low y are trendy for all skirt, these dresses a ge s , i nclu d i ng are hot sellers, Corhigh schoolers and onel said. He added college students. that high schoolW het her t hey’re Student ers generally go f lared, bootcut, fashion for a skater look straight leg or with large shoes, the increasingly and Dorward popular “mom” attested to the and “dad” jeans, resu rgence of g r u nge teens and t weens will rock the halls in a wave of looks that, without saying a word, denim. Pair any of these styles indicate the wearer’s affinity for with a tee or sweater for an easy, new metal bands. Though mostly stylish look. Oversized tees and young adults and postgraduates crew neck sweatshirts are hot frequent the buy/sell/trade store, commodities for as little as $12.99 many high schoolers and college in JC Pen ney, located in the students have begun tailoring their wardrobe to an aesthetic.

Queens Center mall.

Isabella, an incoming college For young men, layering tees or hoodies with unbuttoned jackets is freshman, visited Queens Center’s all the rage. They may opt to style Aeropostale with her mom, selectjeans with a T-shirt or classic but- ing f lare jeans and a white knit ton-down for a more put-together sweater reminiscent of Rory GilChronicle Contributor

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School

more’s signature look from “Gilmore Girls” pilot episode. Pair this look with sneakers or black combat boots and a pumpkin spice latte, and you’ve mastered the cozy “downtown girl” look. While the weather is still warm, young women may pair baby tees with black miniskirts and carry a knit cardigan in case it gets chilly.

Whether they stick to one aesthetic or not, thrift stores can provide affordable, sustainable, timeless pieces.

“Things are cyclical, so it makes it easier to transition into the next trend versus having to get a whole new wardrobe. You spend less money on certain pieces ... things are coming and going, honestly,” Coronel said.

Collegians may even opt to reuse their business casual attire from a summer job or internship. Women might pair wide-leg jeans with an oversized button-down shirt. Others may even test the line between comfort and sophistication by dressing up athletic wear, such as leggings and sports tops, with dress shoes and an oversized blazer. This trend of repurposing workout attire for everyday wear, commonly

Denim’s comfortable, classic versatility makes it a back-to-school staple for all ages. Above, a jeans display at American Eagle Outfitters in the Queens Center mall. At left, a forest green varsity jacket at Abercrombie Kids is PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ among the trendiest back-to-school finds.

known as “athleisure,” encourages young people not to sacrifice comfort for a polished look. They may even elevate it further by choosing monochromatic shades, especially for an all-black outfit.

Athleisure is in high demand among elementar y-school students, too — in patterned sweatpants and zip-up sweatshir ts, youngsters can be stylish from study hall to the schoolyard.

While older generations often opt for dark, neutral or jewel tones like maroon and navy blue in their fall wardrobe, elementary schoolers want their clothes to mimic their vibrant personalities.

Girls’ clothing this season showcases neon and pastel pink, purple and blue, and boys’ darker palette includes f lashes of red, forest green or royal blue.

Child ren’s clothing s t o r e s s e l l c olo r f u l g r aph ic t e e s ga lor e, including some that reference popular media.

“T h is generat ion, where everyone’s watching a bunch of shows that Also trending at Queens Center were a cargo pants and crew neck display at JC Penney, left, and all-black men’s ensemble at come out and premiere American Eagle Outfitters, center. The Children’s Place, right, boasts a wide variety of boys’ and girls’ colorful graphic tees for and everything like that, they love,” Alexis Menas low as $4.99. Outside of the malls, buy-sell-trade shops such as Other People’s Clothes can cater to popular aesthetics.

doza, an employee at Abercrombie Kids in Queens Center, said.

Kids can literally wear their interests on their sleeve with graphics from “The Mandalorian,” “Stranger Things,” “Top Gun” and even Xbox. The Children’s Place, with locations in Elmhurst, Ridgewood, Jamaica and Astoria, allows boys to become their heroes with a Spider-Man or Avengers tee that matches their slim or straight leg jeans. Girls can take their pick of “girl power” tees for as little as $4.99 and style them with trendy cargo pants.

Varsity, leather and denim jackets can also be appropriate layering pieces and staples in your child’s wardrobe. If your student is still in the market for a new backpack, you can find one for 25 percent off.

To find the hottest trends on a budget, check out one of Rainbow’s locations in Ridgewood, Woodhaven or Elmhurst. You might even find a bargain at thrift stores, including Goodwill in Jamaica, Jackson Heights, Astoria and Long Island City.

Students who like what they’re wearing are set to feel confident in the classroom and beyond, so help them choose stylish, comfortable and practical pieces for their backQ to-school wardrobe.

C M BTS page 15 Y K Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023 Page 16

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2023-24 PUBLIC SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR

SEPT. 7, 2023 THURSDAY FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR ALL STUDENTS Sept. 14 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: elementary schools and Pre-K Centers Sept. 21 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: middle schools and District 75 schools Sept. 25 Monday Yom Kippur (schools closed) Sept. 28 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools Oct. 9 Monday Italian Heritage Day / Indigenous People’s Day (schools closed) Nov. 2 Thursday Afternoon Parent-Teacher conferences: elementary schools (early dismissal) Nov. 7 Tuesday Election Day (fully remote, asynchronous instructional day) Nov. 9 Thursday Afternoon Parent-Teacher confs: middle schools and Dist. 75 schools (early dismissal) Nov. 16 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools Nov. 17 Friday Afternoon Parent-Teacher confs: high schools, K-12, 6-12 schools (early dismissal) Nov. 23-24 Thursday and Friday Thanksgiving recess (schools closed) Monday to following Monday Winter recess (schools closed). School resumes Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2023.

Dec. 25-Jan. 1 Jan. 15, 2024 Monday Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (schools closed) Jan. 23-26 Tuesday through Friday Regents Exams Administration (students in these schools do not attend) Jan. 29 Monday Professional Development for 9-12 & 6–12 schools Jan. 30 Tuesday Spring term begins (semester-based schools) Feb. 19-23 Monday through Friday Midwinter recess (schools closed) Mar. 7 Thursday Parent-Teacher conferences: elementary schools and Pre-K Centers (early dismissal) Afternoon & Evening Parent-Teacher confs: middle schools and Dist. 75 schools(early dismissal) Mar. 14 Thursday Mar. 21 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools Mar. 22 Friday Afternoon Parent-Teacher confs: high schools, K-12, 6-12 schools (early dismissal) Friday to Monday Easter Weekend (schools closed — includes Good Friday & day after Easter Sunday) Mar. 29-April 1 April 10 Wednesday Eid al-Fitr (schools closed) Monday to following Tuesday Spring recess (schools closed — includes Passover) April 22-30 May 9 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: elementary schools & Pre-K Centers May 16 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: middle schools and District 75 schools May 23 Thursday Evening Parent-Teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools May 27 Monday Memorial Day (schools closed) June 4 Tuesday Regents Administration in Algebra I June 6 Thursday Anniversary Day/Chancellor’s Conference Day for staff (students do not attend) June 7 Friday Clerical Day for K-5, K–6, 6–8, and K–12 schools and D75 (students do not attend) Friday to second Wednesday Regents Exams Administration (excluding June 17, 19 when schools are closed) June 14-26 June 17 Monday Eid al Adha — observed (schools closed) June 19 Wednesday Juneteenth — observed (schools closed) JUNE 26, 2024 WEDNESDAY LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR ALL STUDENTS!

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The Harvest Festival Returns September 16th, 2023

Note: Parent-Teacher conference dates are citywide, however, please check with your school for changes. For testing dates and other events, visit schools. nyc.gov/calendar.

Courtesy NYC DOE website: schools.nyc.gov

The Annual Harvest Festival is a celebration of our community and the people that make it great.

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The play’s the thing this season

by Mark Lord

Chronicle Contributor

While some local theater companies managed to overcome the obstacles imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic more readily than others, the overall scene has a definite new feel to it, as evidenced by the productions scheduled for the upcoming fall season.

This was traditionally the time of year when big Broadway-style musicals were to be found in abundance on the borough’s stages, but that is decidedly not the case this time around.

Only one musical is on the calendar between now and the end of the year, while several groups have opted to go with smaller-scale straight plays, with titles and authors that are largely unknown.

The sole musical on tap, “All Shook Up,” comes courtesy of Royal Star Theatre, which also will hold the distinction of being the first company to raise its curtain to usher in the new theater season.

The show was inspired by and features the music of Elvis Presley, with more than an occasional nod to the comedies of William Shakespeare for several of its plot twists and turns.

The central role of Chad, a hipswiveling, guitar-strumming roustabout, is embodied here by Nick Prior, with Jamie Berger sharing the stage as his love interest, Natalie.

Other leading roles are played by Amanda Doria and Paul Mastrella, all under the direction of Amanda Montoni. Musical direction is by Daniel Tomlin, with Tara Mangione providing the choreography.

Hit songs in the show include “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Jailhouse Rock” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”

“I wanted to do this show since

Royal Star Theatre’s birth,” Montoni said. “It worked perfectly with the Elvis movie that came out this year.”

The show, she added, is about “finding that spark in you and fulfilling your dream. Nowadays a lot of people forget it’s OK to follow your dream.”

Performances at The Mary Louis Academy (176-21 Wexford Terrace, Jamaica Estates) are on Sept. 22, 23, 29 and 30 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 1 at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $20 in advance, online only, $17 for seniors 65 and over and children under 12. Add $2 to each ticket at the door.

For more information, go online to royalstartheatre.com or call (516) 521-5500.

Next up will be City Gate Productions’ rendering of “Picasso at the Lapin Agile,” an absurd comedy by comedian Steve Martin, which asks the question, “What would happen if Albert Einstein bumped into Pablo Picasso at a French bar in 1904 just before both gentlemen became household names?”

According to the company’s promotional material, the play includes a group of regulars who inhabit the Lapin Agile, witnessing the event.

There’s also a visitor from the future who is said to get things “all shook up.” (A mere coincidence, and absolutely no connection to RST’s musical!)

Director Tim Reifsch neider guides a nine-member ensemble cast headed by Gaston Leguizamon as Picasso and Josh Saffran Sedacca as Einstein. Other roles are to be played

by Christopher Hanks, Jim Haines, Ashley Gage, Toni Watterson, Rick Eisenberg, Rocco Sanabria and David Isareli.

According to one of the producers, Thom Harmon, audiences can expect “a lot of surreal humor,” with

Ben Kaminski, left, Jamie Berger, Amanda Doria and Paul Mastrella rehearse PHOTO BY ALISON KURTZMAN “All Shook Up,” with its nods to both King and Bard.

Doing a readthrough of “Picasso at the Lapin Agile” are, in order of appearance (in the show, not at the table) Christopher Hanks as Freddy, Jim Haines as Gaston, Ashley Gage as Germaine, Josh Saffran Sedacca as Einstein, Toni Watterson as Suzanne, Rick Eisenberg as Sagot, Gaston Leguizamon as Picasso, Rocco Sanabria as Schmendiman and David Isareli as The Visitor; they’re joined by Director Tim Reifschneider and Assistant Director Emma Reifschneider. The setting is Donovan’s Pub in Woodside — fitting for a play taking place in a bar. PHOTO BY VIRGINIA HARMON a roster of “zany and interesting” characters.

Performances at The Secret Theatre (38-02 61 St., Woodside) are on Oct. 13, 14, 20 and 21 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 15 and 22 at 3 p.m.

Tickets are $25, $20 for seniors and students. For more information, visit citygateproductions.org or call (929) 377-7495.

Come November, audiences will be treated to a wide variety of plays, opening in rapid succession.

Douglaston Community Theatre offers “Making God Laugh,” by Sean Grennan, which follows a typical American family over the course of 30 years’ worth of holidays.

Joe Marshall directs a cast that features Rosemary Kurtz, Christopher Tyrkko, Matt Benincasa, James Brodigan and Tara Mangione.

Performances at Zion Church Parish Hall (243-20 Church St., Douglaston) are on Nov. 3, 4, 10, 11 and 18 at 8 p.m. and Nov. 11 and 19 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $22; $20 for seniors and students.

For more information, click one dctonline.org or call (718) 885-4785.

The next night brings to St. Mary’s Drama Guild a production of “Death by Chocolate,” by Paul Freed, which is said to combine all the elements of classic murder mysteries with a scathing satire of today’s health crazes.

The play is directed by Claire Spinetti, who explained how she was introduced to it.

“You know how you pick up little plays just to read?” she said. A

friend of hers did so and passed it women and their role in marriage.”

Performances at the church (85 along to Spinetti.

“I was so hooked,” she said. “It’s Greenway South, Forest Hills) are funny, different, not well-known, on Nov. 11 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 12 and 19 at 2:30 p.m. which I love.”

For more information, click on The cast is headed by Alison Goldman, Alex Alejandro, Tara gingerbreadplayers.org or call (718) 268-7772.

Gleason, and Landon Browne.

Another classic comedy, ShakePerformances at St. Mary’s Mary s speare’s “A MidsumAuditorium (70-20 0-20 47 Ave., spea mer Night’s Dream,” Woodside) are scheduled heduled for arrives one week Nov. 4 and 11 at 6:30 p.m. arr later, and Nov. 5 and lat with auditions scheduled for 12 at 3:30 p.m. early September Ti c k e t s a r e ea with the Park$20 general side Players. admission and Theater The play, one $25 for reserved of seats. o the Bard’s most review p popular, revolves For more inforrpo around mation, visit arou love and all its vagaries. stmarysdramaguuvag D i r e c t o r Wi l l i a m ild.org or call (718) Frenzel is approaching the 672-4848.

George Bernard Shaw’s classic casting with an open mind. “I’m “Candida,” a comedy centered open to pretty much anything,” he around the notions of love and mar- said. “I like to be flexible in the riage, comes to The Gingerbread audition process. Anybody can play Players of Saint Luke’s Church for anybody. I’m not worried about genfour performances beginning on der one way or the other.”

According to Frenzel, the producNov. 11.

Lauren Snyder stars in the title tion is the first of a Shakespeare play role, the wife of a clergyman who to be done by Parkside in many finds herself torn between her feel- years. It also is the first show of the ings for her husband (to be played by first full season for the group since David Ezra Stein) and a young poet coming back from the pandemic (Joe Mignone). Rounding out the shutdown.

Performances at Grace Lutheran cast are Farah Diaz-Tello, Andrew Church (103-15 Union Tpke., Forest Dinan and Mike Miller.

Director Bill Logan, a Shaw afi- Hills) are on Nov. 18, 19, 25 and 26 cionado, calls the play “funny” and and Dec. 1, 2 and 3.

For more information, visit the “well-written,” offering what he Q calls “a modern message about Parkside Players on Facebook.

Fall

C M BTS page 19 Y K

“

Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023

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Exhibits look into the past and future

by Naeisha Rose

the other offerings at SculptureCenter, which is located at 44-19 Purves St. in Long Island City, Fall. It’s a time for going back to school and visit sculpturecenter.org.

Nevena Prijic, a Los Angeles-based artist vacation blues as one prepares to go back to work, but it’s also a transformative season whose work is featured at Mrs., an art gallery located at 60-40 56 Drive in Maspeth, will preswhere a person can expand his or her mind.

So as we get ready to put on some layers, roll ent her work “Feral Currents” from Sept. 5 to back the clock and buy pumpkin spice every- Oct. 28, and there will be a reception on Saturthing, let’s make room to explore exhibits day, Sept. 16 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Born in Serbia, Prijic takes inspiration from throughout the World’s Borough. A handful are described here.

Vinča figurines in her paintings, as well as One of several kicking off next month at Neolithic archeological history and contrasts SculptureCenter is a sound exhibit by Julian biological life with futuristic landscapes.

“Togar” Abraham.

“Vinča culture, being a very important part “We are hosting Togar’s first U.S. solo exhi- of Serbian history, their androgynous and futurbition,” Kyle Dancewicz told the Queens istic look was exactly what I was looking for Chronicle. “We brought him to SculptureCenwhen representing human figures at the time,” ter to activate our lower-level spaces and to said Prijic about how the figurines stirred her. engage with his interest in music and group “Even though they date around 5500 BC, and sonic culture.” from this particular territory, they appeared as Dancewicz, SculptureCenter’s deputy direcif they could belong to some distant worlds, tor, said that Togar’s “exciting” collaborative either from the past or the future.” use of exhibition spaces made it a no-brainer to To learn more about “Feral Currents” or bring him to the center.

Mrs., visit mrsgallery.com.

“We’ve been working with Togar for about a The Godwin Ternbach Museum, located year and there is also goingg to to be be aa lot lot of of within Queens at 65-30 Kissena Blvd.

Queens College Col live programming throughout the fall,” fall,” hout the in Flushing at the university’s F Dancewicz added.

Klapper Hall building, is hostKlap Togar, who resides inn ing an exhibit called “Ubuhle Indonesia, said his sound Women: Beadwork & The W exhibit “Too good to be Art of Independence,” from A OK,” which features newly Oct. 4 to Jan. 11, 2024. A Oc commissioned musical reception will be held on instruments, audio works, Oct. 4 from 6 to 8 p.m. and d n a t r A kinetic sculptures, video, ppeople interested in attendpainting and live events, was was museums ing the exhibit must RSVP by in inspired by his time in the e Oct. 1 by emailing gtmuseOct Southeast Asian country. um@qc.cuny.edu. um@q “Historically, Indonesia is a “Ubuhle,” which means beauty “Ub relatively young nation that hat was was in the Xhosa Xho and Zulu languages, is born out of anti-colonialist movements beadwork art sewn into fabric and is the initiated and formulated by a handful of stubrainchild of South African artist Ntombephi dents, young politicians, cultural practitioners Ntobela and curator Bev Gibson. from different parts of the archipelago. A nation Inspired by the breakdown of families in that has diverse languages and cultures, thereSouth Africa during the 19th century due to fore diverse sounds,” Togar said via email. “To the discovery of gold and diamonds, as well as be able to participate in these movements com- the cultivation of sugar cane, which forced ing from a lineage of listening as practices is men into migrant labor while women were left my way to contribute to a less unjust society.” at home unemployed, Ubuhle is also the name The exhibit starts on Sept. 23 from 6 to 8 of a women’s organization created by Ntobela p.m., and runs until Dec. 11. and Gibson that encouraged women to use To learn more about “To good to be OK” or their skills with beads to create works of art Associate Editor

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Fall

and income in 1999.

“By stretching the textile like a canvas,” Gibson said in a statement, “the artists transform the flat cloth into a contemporary art form.”

Ntobela described the work as “directly from the soul.”

To learn more about the work or the museum, visit gtmuseum.org.

Resorts World New York City, the casino next to the Aqueduct in South Ozone Park, has an interactive theme for its Red Wall Art Gallery set for November and December.

While there are no set dates or times, the casino, which is located at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., has confirmed it will receive artwork from the Queens Centers of Progress and ArtShare for Heartshare, respectively.

“So far I can tell you is that we are implementing a new aspect with augmented reality,” said Courtney Heyward, a Resorts World community development specialist. “We are bringing the artwork to life ... What you do is scan the QR code on your phone and then you scan the photo after. Sometimes there will be a video or sometimes there will be birds flying (around the artwork) ... It’s a very fun aspect to the wall ... It’s something that can be visualized tangibly.”

The artwork will be at the casino’s second floor at the Fifth Avenue Atrium.

If interested in learning more, visit rwnew york.com/red-wall-art-gallery/.

Abstract artist Jeong Min Park’s latest exhbition, “Circulation,” will be featured at The Garage Art Center from Sept. 9 to Oct. 1.

A reception will be held on Sept. 9, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the center, which is located at 26-01 Corporal Kennedy St. in Bayside.

Her artwork delves into spirituality and the concept of reincarnation.

“My life is an intricate tapestry that intertwines the past, present, and future, resonating with the essence of each moment,” Park said in a statement.

To learn more about Park’s work, and the gallery visit garagecenter.org.

MoMA PS1 will present a collaborative piece by siblings Chuquimmia Condori and Joshua Chuquimia Crampton.

The exhibit from the California-based artists incorporates sound, music and images that

Julian “Togar” Abraham, left, will have a sound exhibit at SculptureCenter in Long Island City. Other exhibits this fall include photos, center, by Eyal Bar-David at Maple Grove Cemetery’s cultural center in Kew Gardens and paintings by Nevena Prijic, which will be featured at th e Mrs. art gallery PHOTOS COURTESY TOGAR, LEFT; EYAL BAR-DAVID, AND NEVENA PRIJIC AND MRS. in Maspeth.

“Beshu” bead artwork on fabric by Bongiswa PHOTO COURTESY GODWIN TERNBACH MUSEUM Ntobela. tackle queer and Indingenous culture.

The exhibit started on March 16 and concludes on Oct. 2 at 22-25 Jackson Ave. in Long Island City. To learn more, visit momaps1.org.

The Museum of the Moving Image will feature a sculptural hologram by multidisciplinary artist David Levine from Oct. 27 through March 2024.

An artist talk and reception about Levine’s “Dissolution” exhibit is on Oct. 27 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the museum, which is located at 36-01 35 Ave. in Astoria.

The volumetric projection is viewable from any angle and functions as a digital zoetrope that beams colorful pixels at 30 frames per second onto an oscillating glass plate.

The piece takes inspiration from 1980s flicks like “Tron” and “Max Headroom.”

“We are thrilled to be the first institution in the United States to present ‘Dissolution,’” said Sonia Epstein, MoMI’s curator of science and technology. “David Levine’s work evokes the past and present of the moving image, combining unique digital media technology with references from the history of cinema, television, and video games — a perfect fit for the museum and our subject matter.”

Eyal Bar-David, a photographer and poet who is currently in Nicaragua, told the Chronicle that he will have his first public exhibition of “A Journey Inward Coast to Coast” at Maple Grove Cemetery’s cultural center in Kew Gardens.

“This collection was created during a twomonth long solo cross country road trip in late 2021,” Bar-David said via email. “The road trip marked the start of a powerful healing journey and it was crucial for me to explore my inner and outer realities artistically.”

Carl Ballenas, the president of Friends of Maple Grove Cemetery, Inc., said that BarDavid’s work will be featured for the entire month of September with a reception on Sept. 23 from 6 to 7 p.m. at 127-15 Kew Gardens Road.

“This exhibition is dedicated to a photographer who is buried here at Maple Grove,” Ballenas said. “William H. Zerbe lived from 1864 to 1943. He was an award-winning photographer for the New York Herald Tribune for 60 years.”

Learn more at friendsofmaplegrove.org. Q

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Away for a day in the Poconos

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

If you’re looking for a day trip and you and your family have varied interests, check out northeastern Pennsylvania.

You just might find that there is more to do in the Keystone State’s Pocono Mountains region than there is in some small countries.

The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau offers information on family activities, theme parks, nature and scenic parks and trails, museums, seasonal musical and cultural festivals, vintage train trips, outdoor activities from hiking to white water rafting, and even a NASCAR track on its website, poconomountains.com.

Parks More than a dozen state and national parks allow hikers, photographers and those just interested in the region’s scenery access to lakes, river valleys, waterfalls and forests, the later of which soon will be perfect for fall foliage watching.

Big Pocono State Park in Tannersville, the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area in Bushkill, the Delaware State Forest in Ding man’s Fer r y and Lehigh Gorge State Park in White Haven are among the area’s scenic gems.

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Water and boating For those seeking outdoor recreation with more interaction with nature, a number of companies offer river tubing, canoe trips, kayaking and white water rafting on the Delaware and Lehigh rivers, providding hours of fun over miles of mostly leisurely waterways.

The somewhat more adventurous can try to book whitewater

rafting trips to coincide with water release days, thus adding some oomph when going through the sections of rapids.

The region also has a number of water parks that offer tubing, water slides and wave pools, such as Camelbeach in Tannersville, Great Wolf Lodge in Scotrun and Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Pocono Manor.

There also are two indoor sites — Aquatopia Indoor Water Park in Tan nersville and H 2Ooooh h!

Indoor Water Park at Split Rock, located in Lake Haromony.

Skyward!

Going up from water, the treetop activities include rope bridges and zip lines. You’ll find them at Adventure at Skytop Lodge in Skytop; Summit Adventure Park at Blue Mountain Resort in Palmerton; Camelback Mountain Adventures in Tannersville; Gorilla Grove Treetop Adventures in Pocono Manor; Howlers Peak Ropes Course in Scotrun; Pocono TreeVentures in East Stroudsburg; and the aforementioned Split Rock Family Fun Center in Lake Harmony and Blue Lightning in East Stroudsburg.

Amusements More terrestrial family friendly activities can be found in places li ke Blue Lig ht n i ng i n East Stroudsburg; Costa’s Family Fun Park in Hawley; Impact Family Zone in East Stroudsburg; and the Split Rock Family Center in Lake Harmony.

More specialized offerings also are available, such as The Arcade Era in Stroudsburg and rock climbing at Pocono Rocks! in Mount

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway is one of a number of rail companies offering scenic and historic tours in the Poconos.

Cyclists take in some of the beauty of Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains over the Lehigh Gorge Bridge, with its PHOTOS COURTESY POCONOMOUNTAINS.COM famous fall foliage just coming into bloom.

Site welcomes visitors to see its monuments to the Iron Horses in Scranton.

The Stourbridge Line, operating from Honesdale, offers the Pocono Express between August and midNovember, and visits to a seasonal farmers market in September and October, as well as other seasonal events year round.

Related attracR tions include the tion No. 9 Coal Mine No & Museum, located in Lansford; and the Pennsylan vania Rail Bike exhibit at the to ip tr k ic u Q Hawley Train s Station in Hawley.

St the mountain

Pocono. S&S Speedways offers indoor go-carts at Stroudsburg.

One of the newer sports crazes also has come to the Poconos at Deepshots Pickleball in White Mills, while Big Screen Escapes offers escape rooms in Mount Pocono and Tannersville.

And any NASCAR fan can give you chapter and nd verse on Pocono Raceway way in Long Pond.

For animal lovers ...

“With daily animal shows, a dino dig, petting zoo, parrot feedings and a turtle urtle town, the won-ders never end!”

The visitors bureau, on its website, entices visitors to Claws ‘N’ Paws World Animal Park in Lake Ariel, with its up-close and handson activities for children; and Country Junction in Leighton, with its featured animals and festivals.

It also boasts what it calls the world’s largest general store

Fall

... and train lovers Train buffs, nature lovers and those who cherish views of the Poconos’ scenic and cultural attractions will find nothing to rail anyone about.

The Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway offers scenic tours from its headquarters in Jim Thorpe, while the Steamtown National Historic

Haunted happenings h Halloween really With H just around the corner, the Poconos always plans a haunting reception for its visitors.

Country Junction in Leighton has its Great Pocono Pumpkin Festival from late September through October. Along with pumpkin picking and a corn maze, weekends in October include the haunting of the Waldorf Hotel, featuringa a haunted house, a haunted walking trail, escape rooms and more.

The Candle Shoppe of the Poconos in Swiftwater every fall becomes the Haunted Candle Shoppe of the Poconos, which includes a historic tour T h e Hot el of Hor r or a nd Altered Nightmares in Saylors-

burg offers both indoor and outdoor horror exhibits in the old Pocono Mountain resort called the Lake House Hotel.

And in Jim Thorpe, the Old Jail Museum has a haunting atmosphere in just about any season.

It has the 19th-century jail’s old gallows and dungeon, and offers access to the old cellblock. Many say you can sense the spirits of seven members of the “Molly McGuires,” Irish coal miners hanged for murder during their rebellion against mine owners.

And just how does one explain the remaining handprint of the miner who said he would leave it there as a testament to his innocence?

For those looking to stay longer than a day, poconomountains.com offers information on hotels, restaurants and other accommodaQ tions.

Jethro the giraffe greets visitors at Claws ‘N’ Paws World Animal Park in Lake Ariel.

C M BTS page 23 Y K

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023 Page 24

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What the Mets can do off-season

by Lloyd Carroll

go-round with the mercurial Stroman. Snell, Rodriguez and Nola should be high on the Mets’ shopping list.

Nola is having a good year, but not a spectacular one, with Now that there is one month left to go before the 2023 season mercifully ends, it is time to assume the role of Nostrada- the Philadelphia Phillies. He has heard from the legendary mus and predict what the Mets will do in the off-season to boo-birds at Citizens Bank Park on occasion this season. He may be willing to move a hundred miles north. Mets fans are improve things for next year.

Mets owner Steve Cohen vows the team will be competi- still smarting about Zack Wheeler leaving Flushing for Philative. My guess is he feels the Mets should garner a playoff delphia after the 2018 season because the Wilpons did not berth, but beating the Braves for the NL East crown is proba- want to pony up to keep him. Last year, Taijuan Walker to Citizens Bank Park, and he is havmoved from Citi Field F bly not in the cards. ing a good season. It would be poetic justice if Fans have ample reason to believe things gs will be betNola Nol reversed this trend. ter, though. Edwin Diaz, whose March injury ury seemed I indirectly referred before to Shohei to herald the Mets’ fate this year, shouldd return, Ohtani, who will be the biggest baseball free O and there is little reason to fear he won’t agent to hit the market in years. Without ag be a dominant closer. The Mets do have to mentioning his name, Cohen has indicated m find a quality setup man for him, and they that while he might make an offer to him, could do it this fall. They could have a he is unlikely to get into a bidding war. reunion with David Robertson, who g in k Loo The conventional wisdom is Ohtani preenjoyed his time in Flushing and did not fers to stay on the West Coast. fe forward want to leave. Robertson will be a free agent ent as The T list of free-agent hitters who will be soon as the 2023 World Series ends. available is lengthy, and it’s safe to say Daniel avai The Mets’ starting pitching will have too Vogelbach’s days with the Mets are numbered.

Vogelb be addressed. Kodai Senga is currently the Outfielders Jesse Winker and Adam Duvall have torteam’s ace. Expect the team to go after another tured Mets fans for years with their crushing home major Japanese pitcher. No, not that one. Reports are circulating that the Mets are interested in Yoshinobu Yama- runs. One can hope Mets management has not been oblivious moto, who is 25 years old and throws a variety of pitches that to their offensive talents.

Cohen has said on two occasions the key to sustained sucfrustrates hitters.

There are several top pitchers slated to be free agents. cess is having a quality minor league system. He may not Blake Snell, Eduardo Rodriguez, Aaron Nola and ex-Met spend as much on offense as he did in 2021 and 2022 in order Marcus Stroman will draw plenty of attention from teams. It to avoid blocking the path of the highly touted prospects in continued on page 27 is highly unlikely Mets executives will want to have another Chronicle Contributor

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Mets closer Edwin Diaz, who suffered a tendon tear in his knee during the World Baseball Classic on March 16, is on pace to PHOTO COURTESY NY METS be ready for spring training in 2024.

C M BTS page 25 Y K

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Page 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023

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Widen your kitchen comfort zone

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

Whether you’re an inexperienced cook cautiously looking to expand your repertoire or a seasoned pro seeking a new challenge, new recipes always have an allure. Here are just three, two quite simple and one a bit more involved, that would be great to try out as the weather starts to cool. In the hope that they’re not all old-hat to our readers, one is from the East, one is from South America and one is vegetarian.

Hoisin mushroom and chicken stir-fry This first recipe for a simple stirfry is from bestrecipes.com.au and was posted under the name Australian Mushrooms (rice directions are by the Queens Chronicle). The weights in ounces are approximate equivalents to weights that were given in grams.

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Ingredients • 2 1/2 tbs. peanut or vegetable oil • 10 ounces mushrooms thickly sliced • 10 ounces chicken breast thinly sliced • 5 ounces sugar snap peas tops removed • 1/3 cup hoisin sauce • 1/2 cup roasted salted peanuts (optional) • 1 cup jasmine rice Rinse 1 cup jasmine rice in cold water. Mix with 1 1/4 cup water in medium saucepan with lid. Bring to boil. Turn down to low and simmer 12 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit 10 more minutes, keeping lid on. (Or substitute your own ricecooking method but remember jasmine takes less water than regular white rice.) Fluff with fork and set aside.

Heat a wok over high heat. Add 2 tsps. of oil and half the mushrooms and until they start to color. Remove

from heat and transfer to a plate.

Repeat with 2 tsps. oil and remaining mushrooms.

Add 2 tsps. oil to the hot wok. Add half the chicken and stir-fry 1 minute or until golden. Remove from heat and transfer to a plate. Repeat with 2 tsps. oil and remaining chicken.

Add the remaining oil and sugar snap peas to the wok. Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then return the mushrooms and chicken to the heart. Add the hoisin sauce and stir-fry until well combined and chicken is cooked through.

Stir through the peanuts if using.

Remove from heat and serve with rice.

Vegetable strata This recipe for a simple vegetarian (not vegan) casserole comes from fruitsandveggies.org, which is dedicated to getting people to eat more flora, not fauna. It’s by registered dietitian Jodi Danen, who calls it “super versatile” and “a great way to get more veggies into your family!”

Steam the broccoli. Meanwhile, place broccoli into a microwave-safe dish, covered with 1-2 tablespoons of water, and cook for 2-3 minutes or until bright green and softened.

Whisk the egg mixture. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add eggs, milk, garlic, and salt and pepper.

Whisk until blended.

Layer strata in baking pan. Lay the bread on the bottom of the baking pan. Top with steamed broccoli, sliced tomatoes and sauteed onions.

Pour egg mixture over the vegetables. Top with shredded cheese. With a spatula, gently push down to get the egg mixture covering most of the ingredients.

Bake. Bake for 50 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.

Colombian empanadas: Fried empanadas with beef and potato filling This recipe for the popular pastries is by Marian Blazes, a freelance writer and recipe developer with a passion for South American food. It Ingredients is posted on thespruceeats.com, • 1 small red onion, sliced where you can see a video demon• 1 tbs. olive oil stration, too.

• 2 small Roma tomatoes, omatoes, sliced ““Like many Latin • 1 cup broccoli florets countries, Colombia lorets cou • 6 slices french bread has its own version read ha • 5 large eggs of the empanada,” • 2 cups milk Bl a z e s w r it e s .

B • 2 cloves garlic,, “These unique and “T minced tasty hand pies • salt and pepper have an outer l a Season to taste crust made with • ½ cup shredded masarepa, the preded m recipes cheddar cheese cooked cornmeal co that is used to Preheat the make arepas. The filloven and prepare ing is stewed beef (or are the s baking pan. Preheat the oven pork) and potatoes seasoned to 350° F. Spray the baking pan with with hogao, a cooked tomato salsa.” nonstick cooking spray.

They’re traditionally served with Sautee the onions. In a small skil- spicy aji sauce, she says, “but they’re let over medium heat, sautee onions also good with chile ranch sauce.” in olive oil until golden brown. This will take about 10-15 minutes.

Ingredients For the hogao: • 2 tbs. olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tomato, finely chopped • 6 green onions, finely chopped • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 1/2 tsp. cumin • 1 package (about 2 tsps.) Sazón Goya con azafran (saffron) • 1/4 cup cilantro leaves, coarsely chopped • salt, to taste • freshly ground black pepper, to taste

You best have a wok at the ready if you’re making stir-fry.

Fall

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For the filling: • 3 beef bouillon cubes • 1 pound top round or skirt steak, or similar cut of pork, sliced into strips

On this page of recipes, the food that’s simplest to eat is the most complex WIKIPEDIA PHOTO / OVERKILL53 to make by far.

• water, to cover beef in pot • 1/2 pound yellow or white potatoes, peeled and quartered For the dough: • 3 cups yellow masarepa, or precooked cornmeal, or harina de maiz • 2 1/4 cups hot water • 2 tsps. sugar • salt, to taste • freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying Make the hogao Heat olive oil in a large stockpot.

Add garlic, tomato, onions, cumin, Goya seasoning and cilantro and sauté over medium heat, stirring, until onion is very soft, 12 to 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Remove hogao from pot and set aside in a separate bowl.

Make the filling Using your hands, crush beef bouillon cubes as you add them to the (same) pot.

Add sliced beef to the pot. Cover meat with water and bring to a boil.

Simmer beef until very tender when pierced with a fork, about 1 hour.

Add potatoes to beef, adding more water if necessary to cover. Simmer until potatoes are very tender, about 20 minutes.

Remove the pot from heat and let meat and potatoes cool in the broth.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer meat and potatoes into a separate bowl and set aside. Strain broth into a large measuring cup and reserve.

Place masarepa in a large bowl.

Stir 1 cup of the reserved broth into masarepa, along with hot water and sugar.

Season mixture with salt and pepper and set aside for 10 minutes.

Roll masarepa dough into about 40 golfball-size balls.

Make the empanadas Finely chop meat and potatoes and place in a large bowl.

Stir hogao into meat and potatoes and mix thoroughly, adding a little of the broth to moisten. Slightly mash potatoes.

Working with 1 ball of dough at a time, flatten each ball into a 4-inch circle; placing dough between two sheets of plastic wrap and using a rolling pin will make this easier.

Remove plastic and place a teaspoon or so of filling in the middle of the dough circle.

Fold circle in half to make a halfmoon shape, enclosing filling. Seal edges with fingers. Repeat with remaining balls of dough, placing empanadas in one layer on a plate or cutting board.

Heat vegetable oil to 350 F. Fry empanadas in batches until they are golden brown, about 5 minutes. Do not crowd the pot.

Drain on paper towels.

Serve the empanadas warm with aji sauce or chile ranch sauce if preferred.

On the website, Blazes also offers tips on shaping the empanadas a day before cooking them and how to best store them in the refrigerator, and how to reheat them.

Q Happy cooking!

C M BTS page 27 Y K Page 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 31, 2023

Mets moves in the off-season continued from page 24 his organization.

The team’s owner does not have to worry about shelling out big bucks for a catcher since Francisco Alvarez has shown home run pop, and excellent defensive skills, in his rookie campaign. Likewise, it is highly doubtful Cohen will give up on Brett Baty after a rough rookie season.

Although it is doubtful any of the trio the Mets received in the recent Scherzer and Verlander trades will be on the 2024 Opening Day roster, it is conceivable infielder Luisangel Acuna (the brother of Braves slugger Ronald Acuna Jr.), and centerfielder Drew Gilbert could be called up sometime next summer. First baseman/outfielder Ryan Clifford, who has been doing well with the Brooklyn Cyclones, is at least two years away from making his initial appearance in Queens.

There is a good chance, however, that the top prospect in the Mets farm system, Ronny Mauricio, could be in the 2024 Opening Day lineup. What position he will play is yet to be determined. Mauricio came up as a shortstop, but there is no vacancy there as Francisco Lindor has a long-term contract and is still very productive. Mets fans have been imploring management to call him up this season, but the front office

wants him to spend more time in Syracuse playing various positions in both the infield and outfield.

There has been speculation about Pete Alonso’s future in Queens. He is slated to become an unrestricted free agent after next season. He likes being a Met and is a fan favorite. Some WFAN hosts have said he is a liability in the clubhouse, but that is a lot of claptrap.

Yes, there was talk the Mets were shopping him at the Aug. 1 trade deadline, but their price was understandably quite high. It is unlikely he will be dealt during the MLB Winter Meetings, which will be held the first week of December in Nashville.

The term “winter meetings” is a bit of a misnomer since the first week of December is still autumn.

At his June 26 Citi Field press conference, Cohen made it clear he wants to hire a president of baseball operations. All signs point to native New Yorker, Cornell University alum and onetime Mets fan David Stearns being that person. Cohen has tried to hire Stearns previously, but his current employer, the Milwaukee Brewers, would not let him out of his contract. Those encumbrances end after this season.

Stearns is friendly with current Mets General Manager Billy Eppler, so he will

The core of the Mets lineup, highlighted by the formidable duo of Francisco Lindor, left, and Pete Alonso, will aim to get hits more consistently to make the team more successful at the plate overall. Manager Buck Showalter, left, faced a lot of instability this season, especially compared to his Mets debut in 2022, when the team won 101 games. PHOTOS COURTESY NY METS likely keep him on his staff. It will be Stearns, however, who will be making the trades, call-ups from the minors, and free agent signings.

A bigger question is whether Stearns will want to retain Buck Showalter as the Mets’ manager. Brewers Manager Craig Counsell’s contract also expires after the last out is made in the 2023 World Series. Stearns

hired Counsell and he has done a respectable job in Milwaukee. If Counsell opts to remain in what was once the beer capital of America, then Stearns will stay with Showalter, who is highly regarded throughout baseball.

This should be an active fall for our Flushing heroes. We will cover it all here in Q the Queens Chronicle.

SAPR-079083

• Five-Star Nursing & Rehabilitation Facility awarded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

• Administrator member of American College of Health Administrators • Administrator recipient of CMS Outstanding Achievement award for Reducing Hospitalizations • Administrator is 2016 Recipient of Lily Leadership Award

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