A Fresh Coat for a Beloved Rink
The James Bohan Hockey Rink in Middle Village recently received a fresh coat of paint as part of a grassroots effort that brought together volunteers, small businesses, and elected officials.
Leading the initiative was Paul Pogozelski, president of the Middle Village Residents Association, who coordinated the project and rallied neighbors to contribute time and resources.
Amazon coordinator Juridia Reyes selected the rink as the focus of the company’s Volunteer and Community Outreach Day, mobilizing team members to help with the transformation.
Christina Kostaris, owner of Harry’s Hardware, donated the paint and supplies needed for the makeover, ensuring that the work could be completed without costly external contracts.
State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. contributed a $250 donation, underscoring the political support that helped legitimize the community’s vision.
Kevin Wisniewski, chief of staff for Assembly Member Andrew Hevesi, rolled up his sleeves alongside volunteers and discussed plans for future neighborhood projects.
Walter H. Sanchez, chairperson of Queens Community Board 5, visited the site to inspect the progress and express his endorsement of the collaborative model.
The collective effort not only refreshed the rink’s appearance but also reinforced a sense of unity among residents, demonstrating how small-scale initiatives can yield tangible benefits for future generations.