PHOTO: Assemblyman Goldfeder (l.) called on federal agencies last April to contribute to the improvement of what was once a dangerous ball field at Frank M. Charles Memorial Park in Howard Beach. Courtesy of NYS Assembly
By Michael V. Cusenza
Spring is anchored by many annual events, but few evoke the emotion of two particular affairs: Tax Day and the clean slate of a new softball season.
And softball in some parts of south Queens means the fields at Frank M. Charles Memorial Park in Howard Beach – once-neglected diamonds that have experienced their own fresh start thanks to the ongoing efforts of Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Howard Beach) and the National Park Service.
Goldfeder last Sunday stopped by one of the fields to check on the changes and cheer on the hometown defending division champs, the X-Bays, on their Opening Day.
“Nothing says spring like the crack of a bat and fresh clay on the diamond,” Goldfeder said. “While there’s still work left to be done, our successful partnership with National Park Service has helped restore the fields at Charles Park and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for all our families. I’m proud to again team up with NPS and our hometown hero X-Bays to prepare the fields for the season ahead as the players fight for another championship.”
In March, X-Bays Co-Manager Anthony Galetto contacted Goldfeder’s office to request help in sprucing up the fields. Working with Goldfeder’s staff and NPS, players were able to regrade the infield and outfield, and apply new clay to the infield using NPS-supplied heavy equipment.
Goldfeder said that Galetto had contacted his district office with concerns over the conditions of the field, which were affecting game play and increasing the potential for injury.
“These players have made the community proud, both on the field and through their dedication to improving the community,” Goldfeder added. “They’re already winners in my book. This year, I’ll be there to cheer them on and, if they ever need a second baseman, they know where to find me.”
NPS spokeswoman Daphne Yun said the agency has continued work on the other two ball fields at Frank Charles Park, as well as fixed fences at the tennis courts.
Additionally, Yun noted, NPS is planning some ranger-led programs at the national green space. There will be a fitness course on Saturday, April 24, from 10 a.m. to noon, as well as weekly ranger-led events that will start this summer.
michael@theforumnewsgroup.com
