Cleanup. (Photo: QueensPost)
Oct. 7, 2013 By Christian Murray
More than hundred volunteers turned out under the Sunnyside Arch on Saturday morning to help clean up and beautify Sunnyside’s main business district.
The volunteers picked up garbage and swept the streets between 38th and 50th Streets—in the vicinity of Queens Blvd and Greenpoint Avenue. Furthermore, they planted about 20 daffodil bulbs at each tree pit.
However, before planting, each of the nearly 120 tree pits had to be cleaned and weeded. From there, the dirt had to be softened and mulch put down. Volunteers were also pruning the trees.
“We got an amazing turnout,” said Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer, who was sweeping Greenpoint Avenue with his staff and a group of NYU students. “It’s good to see so many people looking to beautify the neighborhood–and care for trees.”
The event was managed by Sunnyside Shines, which is in charge of the business improvement district, and Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer’s office. Volunteers came from a number of clubs and associations, such as the Sunnyside/Woodside Girl Scouts, Greening Western Queens and New York Cares.
The daffodils are expected to bloom in spring.
Sunnyside Shines has a list of locations where trees need to be planted and is hoping that they will be taken care of soon. It plans to install new tree guards by spring.
Meanwhile, in other news, more than hundred people showed up for an animal adoption event on Saturday at Lou Lodati Park. The event, put on by the Sunnyside United Dog Society, began with Father Brian Dowd of Queen of Angels Church blessing the animals.
One dog was adopted on the day. However, several animals are likely to be adopted once their prospective owner’s application has been checked.
Van Bramer bonded with one of the canines –Lil Ricky—and was pondering whether to adopt him.
Also on Saturday, Sunnyside Gardens Park’s Oktoberfest drew an enormous crowd and was abuzz with activity. Residents took advantage of German cuisine, pumpkin picking and a family oriented arts and crafts show.
