A five-alarm fire sadly tore through a vacant church property in Astoria on Thursday evening, injuring six firefighters, including one who was struck by falling debris. The blaze began in an empty building and spread to the historic First Reform Church of Astoria, both over 100 years old. The original church building dates back to the 1830s, but after a major 19th-century fire it was rebuilt in 1888. The FDNY sent over 270 personnel to battle the flames. Parts of the roof collapsed and firefighters were forced to fight the fire from outside. Luckily, all injuries are reported as non-life-threatening. The cause is under investigation, but the fire highlights ongoing safety concerns surrounding abandoned buildings in NYC. OANA President Richard Khuzami was cited in the Queens Chronicle, which covers this incident in more detail.

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Walk-in interviews will be held on Thursday, April 23 from 11 AM – 2 PM for a free, full-time 8-week Green Construction & Energy Efficiency Training Program (May 4 – June 30). Important: Only open to residents of these zip codes: 11101, 11102, 11103, 11104, 11105, 11106, 11369, 11373, 11377. You must bring proof of address to attend. The program offers hands-on training, industry certifications, and job readiness for those serious about a career in construction and energy efficiency

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Hello Friends, Members, and Supporters. We will be kicking off our events this year in April and May with two cleanups, on April 25th and May 2nd, at Whitey Ford Field. Details are available in the attached flyer. The flyer is being exhibited on all LinkNYC Kiosks in Astoria and parts of Long Island City, and will run through May 2nd 2026 All supplies, including gloves, garbage bags, brooms, rakes, and wheelbarrows, are provided by the Parks Department. There will be snacks and water on hand -we like to feed and take care of our volunteers! OTHER ACTIVITIES We will have an exciting lineup this Spring and Summer.    For the first time in the field’s history, the City Parks Foundation is organizing a puppet show, “Pinocchio,” in July, followed by a Home Run Derby a few weeks later, organized by New York City Rising Stars. Expect other events to be penciled in. We are also excited to announce that we will be partnering with a top arts school in Queens on one of the most innovative and ambitious projects in the city. More news in a press release in a month or two! If you would like to volunteer or help fund many of our programs, you may find more details at https://friendsofwhiteyfordfield.org/how-you-can-help/. No donation is too small. Kind regards,Blair Clancy and Neil HerdanCo-ChairsFriends of Whitey Ford Field

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Read the Op-Ed After years of advocacy, a neighborhood-wide rezoning in Astoria and Long Island City is finally moving forward. Queens Community Board 1’s decision to begin outreach and study the current zoning framework marks a meaningful shift and a chance to address long-standing inconsistencies. For over a decade, OANA has called for a comprehensive approach rather than piecemeal rezonings tied to individual projects. A coordinated plan can better align housing, infrastructure, and economic development while creating clearer, more predictable rules. As the process begins, OANA will engage residents and stakeholders to help shape recommendations. Done right, this rezoning can balance growth with quality of life and ensure Astoria remains a vibrant, accessible community. The op-ed was also published in the National Herald and the Queens Chronicle.

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The Shore Towers Condominium near Astoria Park has unveiled a newly redesigned lobby that blends modern upgrades with its original architectural vision. The refreshed space features terrazzo floors, travertine walls, and warm walnut wood accents. The design draws inspiration from midcentury modern icons like the Seagram Building and Lever House which emphasizes clean lines and a sense of openness. Residents and visitors are now welcomed by an open entrance with contemporary art, modern lighting, and a seating area with a fireplace overlooking the river. Project leaders aimed to honor the building’s 1989 origins while creating a more elevated, world-class entry experience. The result is a thoughtful update that reflects both Astoria’s evolution and the enduring appeal of midcentury design. Read more here: https://qns.com/2026/04/shore-towers-condominium-astoria-lobby-redesign

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The MTA recently announced planned public workshops for the proposed Interborough Express (IBX), a major transit project that would connect neighborhoods across Brooklyn and Queens. These workshops are designed to give the public a direct role in shaping the project. Attendees will be able to learn about the latest updates, ask questions, and provide feedback that could influence factors such as locations, train design, and overall priorities. The IBX has the potential to significantly change how people travel between boroughs and is the latest development in the discussion around creating alternatives to traveling through Manhattan to get to Brooklyn or Queens. For communities like Astoria and LIC, this could mean faster commutes, improved access, and new opportunities, but also raises important questions about infrastructure and neighborhood impact. That’s why we are encouraging our readers to attend these workshops: your voice can make a difference. The MTA is actively seeking input from residents, local organizations, and business owners to help guide the future of the project. These workshops are only the fist step, but Public input at this stage can play a meaningful role in shaping a project that will impact New York City for decades to come. Learn more about the workshops and public hearings here: www.mta.info/project/interborough-express

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Participatory budgeting is back in Astoria with $1 million in public funds allocated to be spent across the community. Beginning April 11 through April 19, neighbors who live, work, or attend school in District 22 can vote on a range of local projects through an initiative led by Tiffany Cabán. To participate simply review the proposals and choose up to the projects that you think we should be supporting. The ballot includes a wide mix of community-driven ideas. On the expense side, proposals range from free citizenship classes and weekly meal programs to youth theater, afterschool enrichment, and immigration legal assistance. Other initiatives focus on workforce development, digital access, and park programming for seniors. Capital projects, which involve larger infrastructure investments, include upgrades to school facilities, playground improvements, new technology for classrooms, and safety enhancements along key corridors like Steinway Street and Astoria Boulevard. There are also proposals to modernize libraries, build STEAM labs, and repair recreational spaces such as tennis courts in Astoria Park. Voting can be done in person at schools, libraries, community events, or the district office, as well as online at vote.pbnyc.org. The goal is straightforward: put real decision-making power in the hands of the community and ensure funding reflects local priorities. This is a great chance for Astoria residents to shape the future of the neighborhood.

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DSNY is rolling out a new rule requiring all buildings with 1–9 residential units to use official NYC trash bins starting June 1, 2026. We’ve been talking about this for a while, but the date is finally here. The official bins are designed to be rat-resistant and more secure, hoping this leads to fewer loose garbage bags on the street. The standard bin costs under $50 and is available for pickup at your local Home Depot or for delivery through services like DoorDash, Instacart, and Uber Eats. Some homeowners may qualify for a reimbursement through the NYC Department of Finance, particularly those receiving the STAR property tax benefit. DSNY will also host virtual info sessions throughout the spring for residents who want more details. OANA encourages residents and property owners to plan ahead and comply before the deadline. Learn more here: https://bins.nyc Virtual Info Session Dates Thursday, April 16 at 6:00 PM Thursday, April 30 at 6:00 PM Thursday, May 14 at 6:00 PM Thursday, May 28 at 6:00 PM Thursday, June 11 at 6:00 PM Thursday, June 25 at 6:00 PM

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Rivercrest is hosting a St. Baldrick’s fundraiser on May 2 to support childhood cancer research and bring neighbors together. The event will feature kids activities, raffles, a silent auction, a live DJ, and head shaving. Participants who shave their heads will receive complimentary draft beer and wine. Organizers are seeking donations, raffle items, and community support. If you have anything to contribute please reach out to them! Learn more here: https://www.stbaldricks.org/events/rivercrest2026

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We’re excited to feature Adam Gordon, Managing Partner of Wildflower Studios, Astoria’s new film and television production studio. Joining him is Catherine Nasch, Chair of the Eastern Regional Board of United Scenic Artists Local 829. Viewers can watch the livestream and ask questions in real time through YouTube and Facebook chat. Date/Time: April 29 at 6:30 PM Where to Watch: Live on YouTube and Facebook Audience Participation: Viewers can watch the livestream and ask questions in real time through YouTube and Facebook chat. Confirmed Featured Guests: Adam Gordon: Managing Partner of Astoria’s new Film and Video Production Studio, Wildflower Studios. Catherine Nasch: Chair, Eastern Regional Board, United Scenic Artists Local 829. Additional invited guests may participate. About the Meeting The film and television industry has long been a core economic driver for Western Queens and an important part of the identity of Astoria and surrounding neighborhoods. World-famous production facilities in the area have included Silvercup Studios, Broadway Stages, and Kaufman Astoria Studios. This meeting will focus on Astoria’s new state-of-the-art Wildflower Studios, including the studio itself  supporting modern production techniques. We may also discuss the Wildflower Corp history in the logistics industry, and how this studio is a natural extension of those skills. We will also examine the broader state of the film and entertainment industry, including how interstate and international competition, new technologies, and changing production models are reshaping the business. the recent bankruptcy of Kayuffman Astoria Studios is a prime example) The film and entertainment sector has traditionally been one of America’s leading exports, but the industry is facing uncertain times that affect not only corporations, but also actors, artisans, union members, technical crews, production staff, and many local small businesses. This discussion will also highlight the need for public policy that helps attract productions back to the United States, New...

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