Rep. Maloney and Climate Advocates Release Climate Change Health Effects Reform
On Saturday, September 26th at 11 AM at the Overlook at Hunters Point South Park, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12) will stand with climate experts and community advocates to mark the end of Climate Week NYC and to release a House Committee on Oversight and Reform staff report on...
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Socrates Sculpture Park Reveals New Monument Series in October
Socrates Sculpture Park will expand its ongoing exhibition of monuments with 10 new works by artists. Entitled “MONUMENTS NOW: Call and Response,” the new collection of sculptures goes on view October 10th alongside a series of commissioned monuments by acclaimed artists Jeffrey Gibson, Paul Ramírez Jonas, and Xaviera Simmons...
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Mt. Sinai Virtual Event for National Cholesterol Awareness Month
In honor of National Cholesterol Awareness Month, Mount Sinai Queens is hosting a free virtual event on Monday, September 21st to share important health information about reducing your risk factors for cholesterol and how to create an easy, healthy snack. The event will take place via Zoom from 12-12:30...
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Friends of Whitey Ford Field In Full Support of Proud Astorian’s BIG CLEANUP
Members and Supporters of Friends of Whitey Ford Field were proud to support Proud Astorian’s BIG CLEANUP effort of public spaces on the waterfront south of Astoria Park. Two teams of volunteers split up to remove litter and empty garbage cans along Vernon Boulevard. Whitey Ford Field, Rainey Park,...
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Covid Surcharge for Restaurants
We received the following statement from the NYC Hospitality Alliance. Some good news for restaurants! “Today, the NYC Hospitality Alliance is very happy to announce that the City Council passed the COVID surcharge bill we have been advocating for. Believe it or not, NYC is the only jurisdiction in...
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A “Proud Astorian” turns her vision for a cleaner neighorbood into reality
Astoria is blessed with many active neighbors, whose concern for the environment and everyone’s quality of life sets examples for everyone. We at OANA are lucky to meet such an individual, who saw a problem, and instead of just complaining has done something about it. A local resident, Kate...
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Annual Museum Benefit & 2020 Isamu Noguchi Award Virtual Presentation
The Noguchi Museum will present the 2020 Isamu Noguchi Award and host the Museum’s annual benefit in a virtual celebration on Monday, November 16, 2020, at 8 pm EST. Previously planned for May 19, 2020, the event was postponed due to the pandemic. In its seventh year, the Isamu...
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New 18-Story Apartment Building Development in Astoria
An 18-story apartment building is set to be developed in the Hallets Point section of Astoria, according to plans filed this week with the NYC Department of Buildings. Developer Solomon Feder filed permits with the agency on Tuesday for a 165-unit residential building at 26-25 4th St after filing...
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Indoor Dining Approved for September 30th
Mayor De Blasio has released a statement advising that indoor dining will be permitted starting September 30th. Finally, with the entire industry and supporters of small business advocating for this, New York City’s small business is on an equal footing with the rest of New York State. We congratulate...
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Astoria Houses Seawall Reconstruction
OANA was recently advised that the reconstruction of the Astoria Houses Seawall will begin by the end of October. This marks the fulfillment of a major issue on Hallets Peninsula. This has been an especially important priority for Claudia Cogar, President of the Astoria Houses Residents Association, and we...
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Xaviera Simmons on View at Socrates Sculpture Park
Artist Xaviera Simmons’ powerful three-part monument, The structure the labor the foundation the escape the pause, is now on view at the Park as part of Socrates Sculpture Park’s MONUMENTS NOW exhibition. Simmons’ installation considers, among many layers of conceptual and formal intent, the history and future of reparations...
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Riccardo’s By The Bridge Announces Closure due to COVID-19
Riccardo’s by the Bridge, founded in 1951 at 21-01 24th Ave. in Astoria, announced on September 1st that it is permanently closing. Anthony Corbisiero, whose family owns the venue, announced the closure on its website. The establishment was a popular wedding venue for the community and where reunions and...
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Beyond the Mask Initiative by Laguardia Performing Arts Center
Beyond the Mask, an initiative founded by Laguardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC), has gathered artists from across the city and around the world to start a conversation and create new work exploring what it means to wear a mask, and how it affects our identity — both on a...
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Citi Bike Expansion in Queens
New York City’s Department of Transportation’s Bike Share Unit has informed OANA of the upcoming bike share expansion in Queens’ Community Board (CB) 1, which includes neighborhoods such as Ditmars-Steinway and Astoria Heights. This is a part of a five-year growth of New York City’s successful Citi Bike program....
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NYC Budget Input Needed
The Budget Process for NYC for fiscal year 2022 is underway, and one of the first steps is for the public to advise what their needs are. Community Board 1 in Queens will hold their public hearing where you can submit your proposals on September 10th at 6 PM....
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NYC Ferry Press Conference
Our President Richard Khuzami was pleased to be invited to participate in a Press Conference with Mayor Bill DeBlasio to celebrate the new direct ferry service between Astoria and the Upper East Side. Other speakers included Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, NYC Councilman Ben Kallos, EDC Ferry Director James Wong, and...
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NYC Gyms Set to Reopen September 2nd
After hopes that gyms would reopen in August, Mayor Bill de Blasio confirmed that they’d be allowed to reopen in New York City on September 2nd. On WNYC, de Blasio clarified that while Governor Andrew Cuomo had announced that fitness centers would finally be able to reopen on August...
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REVEL Restarts Their Service Today 8/27/20
We have been notified that the REVEL Moped share service will resume services in NYC today, with new enhanced safety measures in place. Please see the Revel Safety Memo and the Press Release which is in English and Spanish. OANA was asked to give input on the newly implemented...
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OANA Open Restaurants Open Streets Initiative
During the summer, we at OANA, in partnership with the 30th Avenue Business Association, organized and applied for the city’s Open Restaurants Open Streets program on 30th Avenue. The survival of our vibrant cafes, restaurants, and bars is paramount, and we are trying to do everything we can to...
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Stand Up and Be Counted: A Virtual Census Event
Please join LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC) in their upcoming census program, “Last Call: Stand up, Be Counted,” a virtual event scheduled for Thursday, September 3rd, from 7 pm until 9 pm. They will be going live on FaceBook for a webinar with census experts and community leaders who...
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Astoria Calls Community to Cleanup
OANA was privileged to be contacted recently by Sarah Abdalfatah, a local Civil and Environmental Engineer. We firmly believe that a community is only as strong as its individuals, especially those who take initiative to improve our quality of life. Having a good idea, and then ACTING on it,...
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New NYC Ferry Schedule with Astoria Route Modification
An updated NYC Ferry Summer Schedule will go into effect Saturday, August 22nd, 2020. Earlier this week we received the great news that after 2 years of OANA advocating for direct ferry service between Astoria and the Upper East Side the service has been approved. Starting Saturday, August 22...
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The Noguchi Museum Reopens on September 23rd
The Noguchi Museum announced that it will reopen to the public on September 23rd, with two weeks of early access to members by advance reservation starting September 9th. The Museum will implement a number of new visitor policies and safety measures to prioritize the safety of their staff and...
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The Upper East Side, Astoria Direct Ferry Service Approved!!!!
After 2 years of advocating for direct ferry service between Astoria and the Upper East Side, OANA was notified today that the service has been approved and is set to begin THIS SATURDAY!!! Patience can be a virtue, and this is an example!! Support and participation from the local...
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Astoria Book Fair on August 30th
On August 30th, a free book fair will be held to provide books to the Astoria community—at no cost. With support from Astoria Mutual Aid Network and The People’s Bodega, all the books will be sourced from donations, and free snacks and beverages will also be available. The book...
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Paul Ramírez Jonas’ ‘Eternal Flame’ on View at Socrates Sculpture Park
For Socrates Sculpture Park’s multi-part MONUMENTS NOW exhibition, artist Paul Ramírez Jonas has created the installation, ‘Eternal Flame.’ From a distance, ‘Eternal Flame’ resembles a traditional obelisk monument sculpture – but upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that each of the five facets around the base of the structure...
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Noguchi Museum Offers Digital Features and Programs
The Isamu Noguchi Foundation and Garden Museum, founded under Isamu Noguchi’s art and legacy, has temporarily closed their doors and canceled their in-person events. However, the museum is offering digital features, films, and programs for those who are interested. Artist Nicholas Knight and Dakin Hart, Senior Curator, created a...
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As of Right Development Astoria Blvd Newtown Ave
An “As of Right” Development (No Zoning Changes Needed) will be erected in Old Astoria). The well known “Furniture Market” site at Newtown and Astoria Blvd will be home to this development, for a five-story mixed-use building at 22-02 Astoria Boulevard. This building housed a local institution, “The Furniture...
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Importance of the 2020 Census
There are officially 56 days until the end of the 2020 Census, and only 54.8% of New York City households have completed the census. OANA is urging the community to do better. U.S. Census Bureau enumerators, commonly known as “census takers,” have started going door-to-door to the homes of...
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“Dealing with Stroke in the Era of COVID” — Virtual Panel by Mount Sinai Queens
Mount Sinai Queens is hosting a virtual panel discussion titled “Dealing with Stroke in the Era of COVID” on Wednesday, August 5th from 12 pm until 1 pm. The discussion is presented by the world-class Cerebrovascular Stroke Center at Mount Sinai Queens. OANA fully supports learning from experts about...
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Astoria Park Pool Reopening August 1
Astoria Park Pool is set to reopen on Saturday, August 1st. It is one of 15 pools reopening in New York for the summer 2020 season with reduced capacity through September 7th. General guidelines concerning COVID-19 are set in place. Pool hours remain the same, from 11:00 a.m. until...
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New York says goodbye to Revel, For Now
Revel, the electric moped sharing service, has suspended its services in New York City. On Tuesday, the company announced on Twitter that it would be suspended “until further notice.” The news follows the death of a 32 year old rider in Queens, the second death reported in weeks of...
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Elevators Open at the Astoria Bvd Station
We are pleased to announce that the new elevators on the Astoria Blvd station of the N/W line are now open. This is the culmination of a long-term priority of the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association. We have advocated for greater accessibility for many years, including presentations by the MTA...
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OANA AOC COVID Recognition
OANA has received the following request from the Office of Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio Cortez. She has asked us to help in outreach to the community to recognize those whose lives and family suffered losses due to COVID 19. “Over the past 3 months, COVID-19 has taken the lives of...
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14th st 2-way conversion
We received the following from the NYC Department of Transportation: “14th Street (Broadway to 30 Ave) will be converted to a two-way roadway on Tuesday 7/14/2020. The project will entail no parking removal. The road is 44′ wide. There will be a double yellow line installed down the middle...
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Astoria Park Pool to OPEN!!!!!!!
A great inclusion in the new city budget! The Astoria Park Pool will reopen on August 1. 15 of 53 currently closed pools will reopen, and the Astoria Pool is included! Others include Crotona, Mullaly, and Haffen in the Bronx; Sunset, Betsy Head, and K-Pool in Brooklyn; Hamilton Fish,...
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Update on Open Restaurants
Mayor DeBlasio recently announced the Open Streets Open Restaurants program and after a long-awaited return to indoor dining, we are now learning that it is all being put on hold. THREE ASTORIA ZIP CODES RANK among the top 10 communities in terms of social distancing violations, with over 500...
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New Development by Hallets Cove
A new development next to Hallets Cove (3077 Vernon Blvd) has begun foundation work recently. 534 rental units are being developed and will include an elective affordable component. This “as of right” development includes three buildings, with Building A having 266 units, B with 151 units, and C with...
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New Alternate Side Parking Rules
New York City is initiating new Alternate Side Parking rules starting Monday, June 29th. When alternate side starts, streets will be cleaned no more than once per week. Streets that have multiple alternate side days will be cleaned on the latest day posted on the sign. At this time,...
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Astoria Houses Scholarship Fund
Hope you are doing okay during this time! There is no more respected individual on Hallets peninsular, and for that matter, in Western Queens, than Astoria Houses Residents Association President Claudia Cogar. She has taken the lead in both the physical and spiritual revitalization of our neighborhood, and we...
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Mopeds on the Queensboro Bridge
We appreciate the Queens Gazette publishing our recent op-ed on allowing electric mopeds to utilize the Queensboro Bridge to provide service between Queens and Brooklyn to Manhattan. And we thank the Queens Chronicle for writing an article on this same subject. We regret that the DOT states that there...
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Op-Ed: Restaurant Open Air Seating
The city is preparing for the opening of outdoor dining for our restaurants. OANA, in partnership with the 30th Ave Business Association, is fortunate to have the NYC DOT investigate our proposals for blocks closed to vehicles on 30th Ave and Ditmars to accommodate restaurant and bar customers. The city plans...
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Application for restaurant outdoor open air seating
We have been notified by the NYC DOT that, starting tomorrow, any restaurant or café interested in outdoor seating can start the application process through the following link: https://www1.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/pedestrians/openrestaurants.shtml The page also includes the parameters you must follow for compliance. As New York City prepares for phase 2 of...
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New Development on Hallets Peninsula
A six-story mixed-use building, located between 8th Street and 12th Street, at 8-29 Astoria Boulevard in Astoria, Queens has filed permits to begin construction. The lot is close to the NYC Astoria Ferry Landing and the Astoria Boulevard subway station, serviced by the N and W trains. The owner is Rukhsana Samdani of...
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Moped access from Queens to Manhattan
At our OANA meeting on May 27, we had a great presentation from Carol Antunez of Revel Mopeds (Starting at 1 hr 38 min), the electric scooter-share company operating in 4 boroughs. We feel that this type of service will become more and more important in the near future....
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Opening Restaurants and Cafes in Astoria
Yesterday was a good day in trying to establish pedestrian-only streets to allow social distancing for patrons of our cafes and restaurants. The City Council is streamlining rules for outdoor cafes! Note: Councilman Constantinides is also a sponsor of this legislation. We also just received the following from Speaker...
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Virtual Screening of Headwall Theatre Company’s Echoes of Ireland
On Saturday May 23 at 7 pm, our friends at Headwall Theatre Company will present a free online screening of Echoes of Ireland, a play written and directed by Brian C. Petti. Beginning five years after the end of the potato famine in Ireland, this production follows the Cunyngham...
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Queens Mutual Aid Groups List
As we’ve mentioned in previous posts, it’s been inspiring to see the neighborly spirit of our Queens community during the current crisis, with individuals coming forward to support existing non-profits and/or starting their own groups. We’ve been given a list of mutual aid groups in Queens, and since there...
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Vote from Home
Voting is both a privilege and duty for all Americans. There is no more important facet of a citizen’s responsibilities to our country. And there is no other way for us to guarantee the peaceful transfer of power, and policies that have popular support. However, because of the COVID...
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Small Landlords Hit Hard by the Coronavirus Pandemic
As the numbers of new COVID-19 infections are finally beginning to go down in New York City, it’s a relief to feel that we may be able to entertain some cautious optimism about the pandemic. But with most businesses still shut down and many jobs already lost, a full...
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Alternate side Parking Temporarily restored
The City of NY has announced a temporary restoration of Alternate Side Parking Regulations from May 18th to May 24th. This has been done in order to facilitate a “Clean Sweep Week”. Because of the Covid 19 pandemic, streets have not been cleaned for an extended period of time....
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EMBCA Mother’s Day Concert
Please join EMBCA (the East Mediterranean Business Cultural Alliance, in Association with the AHEPA Hellenic Cultural Commission (HCC) and AHEPA District 6, for a special Mother’s Day Concert on Sunday, May 10, 2020 at 2 P.M. New York Time/ 9 P.M. Athens Time. Join at https://youtu.be/1BrTrzJHoHs and let’s have...
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No Group Sports in Astoria Park
We have just returned from the Track at Astoria Park, and it looks like there is a new policy that does not allow any group sports on the infield. The soccer goals have been removed, and there is enforcement by both the NYPD and Parks Enforcement Officers. We have...
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Protect your ZOOM meetings
We received an interesting article on how to protect against ZOOMBombing, when hackers infiltrate your Zoom meetings, causing chaos and embarrassment. Keep Zoombombing cybercriminals from dropping a load on your meetings As this platform has become more and more a part of our daily lives, becoming familiar with best...
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New Vessels for NYC Ferry
During this pandemic, we want to take an opportunity to report on an investment in a positive future for NYC and it’s transit system! The NYC Ferry (operated by Hornblower), has taken delivery of its first 2 of its EPA Tier 4 compliant vessels. Named H401 and Curiosity, the...
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Positive use of a closed Astoria Park Pool
OANA calls upon the Parks Department and Mayor Bill DeBlasio to consider doing much-needed repairs on the Astoria Pool if and when the pool is closed for the summer. This is a good example of making the best use of a bad solution. This would alleviate the closure of...
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“Astoria Arts Alive” Weekend Walk Postponed
We regret that, upon discussions with the NYC Department of Transportation, our Weekend Walk program, which a street is closed to motor vehicles, and features various entertainment, tabling, and exhibitions is postponed. OANA was a recipient of a grant to put on such a program. It was scheduled for...
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An Update from Mount Sinai Queens
Our hospitals in New York City, and especially in Queens, are under extraordinary pressure in this unprecedented era. We at OANA would like to thank our health care workers for the vital and heroic work they are carrying out in sometimes very difficult circumstances. Mount Sinai Queens is rising...
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The Rough Draft Festival is Moving Online
As New York City remains on PAUSE due to the COVID-19, many cultural institutions have been making performances available online to entertain us while we protect ourselves and others by remaining indoors. Now LaGuardia Community College’s Rough Draft Festival is moving online. Dates have been announced for the first...
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NYC Pools Closed
New York City’s outdoor public pools will be closed this year, and Mayor de Blasio advised that beaches could be shuttered for the summer too. All because of the COVID 19. The Mayor stated in reference to beaches: “Lower expectations, just for everyone’s sanity”. He said the city probably...
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Shore Blvd Closed
Community Affairs Officer Mujibulla Mashriqi has advised that Shore Blvd is now closed to vehicular traffic until further notice. The Commanding Officer of the 114th Precinct, Deputy Inspector Osvaldo Nuñez, has taken this action for safety reasons for the general public. Pedestrians and bicyclists will still have access. During...
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New Building on Hallets Peninsula
A seven-story mixed-use building at 26-35 3rd Street (at the intersection of 27th Avenue and 3rd Street) in Astoria, Queens is coming. The closest Subway stop is the Astoria Blvd station of the N/W. It is also within a few minutes is the NYC Ferry Landing in Hallets Cove, Astoria....
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Update on Astoria Park
The City of NY has closed the skate park and adult fitness area in Astoria Park. Obviously too many people disregarded social distancing, and now EVERYONE pays the price. We hope that people act responsibly on the track and soccer field. We don’t want to lose this also. With...
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More on Mortgage and rent in the COVID 19 era
After reading OANA’s piece on Mortgage Forbearance, BISNOW a Real Estate Publication reached out to our President, Richard Khuzami. They published an article, titled: Mom and Pop Landlords: We are in danger of going Bankrupt without Help”, which brings to light the issues that are facing small landlords during...
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Councilman Constantinides and COVID 19
OANA wants to give a great big shout out to our Councilman, Costa Constantinides during these trying days for him and his family. While we have known that Costa has been self- quarantining because of symptoms of COVID 19, we just found out that his wife Lori is has...
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Scooter Parking Study Initiated by DOT
Back in February, OANA proposed the idea of a study to see if no standing zones by intersections, (Daylighting), could be utilized to park scooters without effecting driver’s line of sight to oncoming traffic. We are not taking a position for or against, as the primary need of these...
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Forbearance of Mortgage Payments during the Covid-19 Emergency
OANA has reached out to our congressional representatives concerning the forbearance of mortgage payments during the Covid-19 emergency. The federal government, who has jurisdiction of loans backed by Fanny and Freddy, advised banks to cease foreclosures upon non-payment of mortgages as well as affiliated late fees. They also demanded...
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IRS Economic Impact Payment
The IRS has issued a pamphlet regarding the Economic Impact Program, part of the 2 Trillion Dollar Recovery program recently enacted by the Federal Government. Important reading for everyone! As you know, one aspect was that most citizens would be eligible for a one-time payment of up to $1200.00....
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Policing Distancing in Astoria Park
Updates: Social Distancing in Astoria Park As we discussed in a prior post, many users of the Astoria Park Track, Soccer Field, and Skate park have been ignoring the social distancing requirements for combating the COVID 19. We supported our Councilman Costa Constantinides’s call for increased enforcement by the...
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Helping Each Other During the Coronavirus Outbreak
We at OANA urge you to continue to observe the advice being given by NYC Department of Health and the CDC during the coronavirus pandemic: to wash hands, stay indoors as much as possible and practice social distancing (remaining 6 feet apart from others) when you need to go...
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Social Distancing in Parks Saves Lives
As the number of confirmed cases and deaths from COVID-19 (coronavirus) in New York City continues to rise, there was nevertheless a little encouraging news this: the rate of growth in the number of cases hospitalized appears to be slowing. If this trend continues, it would indicate that the...
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Responsible Use of Astoria Park during COVID 19
Councilman Costa Constantinides is calling on the city to temporarily close and increase police enforcement of social distancing on Shore Blvd. He has also called for increased enforcement in the Soccer, Running Track, Skateboard Park, and Parking Lot in Astoria Park. Astoria park running track Costa gave OANA the...
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OANA Request On Housing Cost During Covid 19
Update: OANA request on Housing Costs during COVID 19 We appreciate the efforts of Governor Andrew Cuomo and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney to address housing issues created by COVID 19 as expressed in today’s QNS.COM article. We ask that they take it to the next level! OANA thanks Governor Cuomo,...
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Mortgage and Rent Relief Directive
We are so very pleased that the issues we expressed in our recent op-ed about relief for landlords has been addressed! We ask that rents for tenants also be deferred so that no one is pressured to work in environments that could increase the spread of Covid 19. OANA...
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Relief For Small Property Owners
We request urgent action to address pressing mortgage payments for residential real estate, in light of the economic slowdown caused by COVID-19. Specifically, we’d like to emphasize such urgency as it pertains to single-family units, condos, co-ops and 1-3 multifamily buildings. We are fully supportive of relieving tenants from...
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Coronavirus Updates and Resources
As the situation in New York City regarding the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak is changing rapidly, we urge our friends and neighbors to follow the advice being given by the City on staying safe, practicing good hygiene, and helping to reduce the impact of the outbreak. As of Friday, March...
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Theatre Fans Finding Chicken and Biscuits to Their Taste
You still have chances to see the Queens Theatre’s production of Chicken and Biscuits, a hilarious comedy by Douglas Lyons which wowed the audience last weekend at the New York State Pavilion. The family of Bernard Jenkins is gathering for his funeral at their church in New Haven. New...
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NYC Street Tree Program Dollars are Being Sapped
Anyone who’s crossed a New York City street in the summer to take advantage of the shade on the other side appreciates our street trees. There are other significant benefits to planting trees—urban trees improve air quality, help prevent stormwater runoff and consequent pollution of our waterways, offer food...
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Position letter on DOB Violations
OANA applauds the Mayor’s initiative “Fix it, Don’t Fine It” that will provide financial relief to small businesses. The goal is to eliminate fines for many first-time violations and create grace periods to fix the issue. We ask that this concept be expanded to include the real estate and...
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Elimination of the M 103…A disaster for our waterfront?
The Queens Gazette published OANA’s statement on the elimination of the M 103 bus on Vernon Blvd. We appreciate their commitment to improving our Quality of Life. We also want to thank Clare Doyle, who is running point on this issue and is responsible for writing the article. She...
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Homeward Bound at Hunting and Gathering
Another stellar production from Headwall Theatre Company, Hunting and Gathering will resonate with anyone who’s ever been through the emotional roller-coaster that is apartment-hunting in New York City. A comedy by Brooke Berman, directed by Michelle Pucci Orosz, who also directed Headwall’s production of The Other Place,, the characters...
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Chicken and Biscuits, A Launch Production at the Queens Theatre
If you’re looking for an excursion for you and your theatre-loving college student on spring break, we have a show for you! Chicken and Biscuits, a new family comedy by composer-playwright/actor Douglas Lyons will receive its launch production at Queens Theatre from February 28 to March 22nd. The show...
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Bike Lane Update
On February 11th, the NYC DOT hosted a Public Workshop on the Queens Bike Network. In case you missed it, here is a link to the presentation that can read here. We at OANA were not able to attend because it conflicted with our OANA monthly meeting, but we...
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Alternate Side of the Street Parking Fines
Forgot to move your car? You may have to dig a little deeper into your wallet as of this week. A change to New York City’s Alternate Side Parking fine went into effect on Thursday, February 20th. Currently, Alternate Side Parking penalties are $65 in Manhattan below 96th Street...
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Hallet’s Cove Theater
We are lucky in Astoria and Long Island City to have a lively theater scene thanks to companies such as APAC (Astoria Performing Arts Center), Headwall Theatre, LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC), and the Secret Theatre. Another to add to your list is the Hallet’s Cove Theater in Astoria—and...
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Fandango for Butterflies (and Coyotes) Free Tickets
LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC) is very kindly offering free tickets to the OANA community and Family Church members for their upcoming show Fandango for Butterflies (and Coyotes) for tonight 2/19, or Thursday 2/20. Tickets for either show are available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are interested,...
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NYC Goes Plastic Bag Free
On March 1, 2020 the Plastic Bag Waste Reduction Act will take effect in New York City. This law prohibits the distribution of “plastic carryout bags” by retailers in New York State. “Plastic carryout bags” are the bags given out by supermarkets, drugstores and other retailers, and which tend...
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Multicultural Celebration from Central Astoria LDC
Central Astoria LDC is bringing us another fabulous Multicultural Celebration on Sunday, February 16 from 12.30 to 4.30 pm. Enjoy performances by cultures from around the world and celebrate the diversity for which our borough is renowned! This free event is possible thanks to public funds from the New...
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Just Go See Jump
Jump, by Charly Evon Simpson, is currently having its New York premiere at The Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) in a pop-up venue at 28-21 Steinway St. The vacant storefront makes for a surprisingly intimate venue, while Devorah Kengmana’s lighting design and the sound design by Jeanne Travis effectively...
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Queens Bus Redesign and the Threatened Q103 Route Cancelation
Having studied the draft plan for the MTA’s Queens Bus Redesign, OANA has concerns that the proposed plan, eliminating entirely the current Q103 bus service, would negatively affect access to the Astoria/Long Island City waterfront along Vernon Boulevard. The Astoria/LIC waterfront is a prime destination for those visiting our...
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New Affordable Lottery Units in Old Astoria
15 affordable units are available at the Amana Astoria, located at 14-47 29th Avenue. Qualifying New Yorkers earning 70, 80, and 130 percent of the area median income can apply for the apartments, which range from a $990/month studio to a $2,770/month two-bedroom. Amenities include indoor and outdoor recreational areas, on-site laundry,...
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Gather Up Some Tickets for Hunting and Gathering
Local theatre group Headwall Theatre Company will present Hunting and Gathering, a comedy by Brooke Berman on February 27-29th and March 5-7th at 7 pm (Thursday-Saturday) at the Greek Cultural Center, 26-80 30th St, B2, Astoria, NY 11102. Directions: Take the N / W to 30th Ave Station at...
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PS 171 Student Safe Zone
OANA, with the support of Principal Lisa Stone and Andre Stith of ZONE 126, has received word from the NYC DOT that our request for upgraded student to and from school has been acknowledged, and some aspects have been approved!. Principal Stone and Andre reached out to OANA to...
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LaGuardia Performing Arts Center Looking Forward to 2020
It’s a new year and an action-packed agenda at LaGuardia Performing Arts Center (LPAC), the largest theater complex in Western Queens. Collaborating with LaGuardia Community College and their Humanities Department, LPAC is dedicated to producing diverse, innovative and inclusive programming. On Saturday February 1st at 2 pm, LPAC will...
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BQX Light Rail Project Outreach Meeting in Astoria
New York City has announced the first official step regarding public outreach for the Brooklyn Queens Connector (light rail) project. These public workshops are designed to engage residents with the project and familiarize them with the streetcar’s proposed route, as well as to solicit feedback on how aspects of...
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Passenger rail Link: Bay Ridge to Astoria?
The MTA has announced a $1.3 million-dollar study on the feasibility of an elevated light rail passenger service from Bay Ridge Brooklyn to Astoria. Officials announced Wednesday. An existing freight rail would be converted. It would also service Midwood, East New York, Bushwick, Middle Village and Elmhurst and crosses...
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A Fabulous February at the Noguchi Museum
February may be the shortest month but it’s packed with events and activities at the Noguchi Museum. (Unless otherwise noted, programs and events are free with museum admission). The collection installation Noguchi: Body-Space Devices, a selective survey of the strategies Isamu Noguchi used to implicate the body in his...
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New Residential Building in Old Astoria
A seven-story residential building at 14-54 31st Avenue in Astoria, Queens, 70-foot tall having 20,729 total square feet, with 17,597 square feet designated for residential space has filed for permits. The building will have 24 residences. This building will be approximately .7 of a mile from the 30th Ave station...
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Community Board Applications Open Up
QUEENS, NY —Applications for serviced on local Community Boards are now being accepted. The city charter directs the borough president to appoint all community board members in that borough, though half are nominated by local City Council representatives. “Civic engagement is a hallmark of our borough and city governance...
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Make The Secret Theatre’s “The 8th” the First Play You See This Year
The world premiere of “The 8th”, written and directed by Seanie Sugrue, opened on January 7 at the Secret Theatre in Long Island City and will run through Saturday, January 18. Sugrue was nominated for Best Screenplay Narrative Feature (2017) for the film “Catch 22: based on the unwritten...
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Goodwill Apartments Sold
Jonathan Rose Cos., has purchased the former Goodwill property at 27th ave and 4th st on Hallets Peninsula for 35 million. “We have come up with a program to protect current tenants,” advised Nathan D. Taft, managing director of acquisitions, for Jonathan Rose Cos. The property is a Mitchell-Lama...
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Queens Bus Routes Get Redesign
A major overhaul of Queens’ bus routes calls for cutting and combining some of the borough’s major routes The MTA on Monday released a draft of its plan to redesign the network of 107 bus lines that move more than 714,000 weekday riders throughout Queens. Current plans call the...
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Astoria Blvd Station Has Reopened
We are excited to let you know that the Astoria Blvd station has reopened. Over the course of the last nine months, there has been significant work completed on the station including: New mezzanine Strengthened column foundations Four new mezzanine to platform staircases Two new street to mezzanine staircases...
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Minority and Women-Owned Business Workshop
The Port Authority of NY/NJ is having a Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Certification Workshop in Old Astoria Astoria Library of Astoria 14-01 Astoria Blvd Astoria NY 11102 Monday Dec 16th, 2019 5:30 to 7:30 PM Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise is defined as a small business that is...
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School Bus Stop Signs
Gail Gualotuna from the Astoria Express school bus service attended our last meeting and had reached out for help. They have a problem with motorists ignoring the school bus stop signs and we requested she send us an email regarding this issue: “For over 30 years, our school bus...
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OANA Op Ed Bike Lanes and Traffic Controls
The Queens Daily Eagle has published an op-ed by OANA concerning the new 250 miles of Bike Lanes the city plans on installing. Because of the increase in alternative Vehicles (Bikes, Scooters, Skateboards, etc) the streets are getting more dangerous. Our members have experienced too many close calls recently, and we...
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Whitey Ford Field Comfort Station
OANA has advocated for comfort stations at Whitey Ford Field. We feel this is an important issue that must be addressed. With the upcoming renovations, we expect usage of the field to increase dramatically. Without a comfort station, use by women has been curtailed. We must have facilities equal...
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Astoria Blvd Subway Station Closures
Work on the Astoria Blvd Station continues to progress. To accommodate the work, trains will run express in one direction between Ditmars Blvd and Queensboro Plaza on the following weekends: Nov 23-24 Ditmars-Bound Express Dec 7-8 Ditmars-Bound Express Dec 14-15 Manhattan-Bound Express Additionally, the intersection of Hoyt Av South and 31st Street is...
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“Cool” Astoria
Insider.com has done a little research into why Astoria is the 8th Coolest neighborhood in the world. Looks like food to center stage! In Old Astoria, they discussed the Welling Court Mural project and Socrates Sculpture Park!! What do you think of their conclusions? What did they miss? One...
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Cornell Tech Initiates Partner Violence Program
Cornell Tech has initiated a Computer Security Clinic for Victims of Intimate Partner Violence. “The Computer Security Clinic for Victims of Intimate Partner Violence will allow our talented research team to help more survivors in collaboration with the New York City Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender Based...
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Astoria Residents Still Hoping For Ferry Extension To The Upper East Side
Just wanted to advise everyone of a new article in QNS.com on the Ferry Extension we have been requesting. We would like to remind everyone to sign our Petition We want to thank QNS.com for keeping this issue alive! Please click here to see our position on the upper...
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Noguchi at Night Fall Fundraiser
The Noguchi Museum is having their fall fundraiser on Nov. 18th, 2019 from 7-10 PM. OANA hopes that everyone who values the Arts can attend, and support one of the top Cultural Institutions in NYC! Old Astorians are proud of the legacy of Isamu Noguchi and the fact that...
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Apply for Socrates Sculpture Park 2020 Fellowships
OANA is proud to support and promote Socrates Sculpture Park, one of the premier destinations for Old Astorians and those who love and support the arts! Socrates Sculpture Park is currently accepting applications for their 2020 Artist Fellowship. This year’s focus is on Public Monuments. Public Monuments have been...
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St Georges Episcopal Church Prayer Breakfast
OANA has enjoyed the support of St George’s Episcopal (Use of their Community Room). And in the spirit of friendship, we want to let everyone know of a great event coming up: St George’s Episcopal Church is hosting a Community Prayer Breakfast. Prayer, Singing, Meditation Anointing with Breakfast Buffet....
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Xerox Inventor Honored
OANA President Richard Khuzami has taken a real interest in the connection between Xerox Corp and Astoria, as manifested in the recent street naming in Astoria for the inventor of the Xerox copier. The corner of 37th Street and Broadway is now known as “Chester Carlson Way”. Chester Carlson...
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Writing Circle at Astoria Library
Queens Library Astoria Branch will be holding a writing circle over the next several months. The next session will take place on Saturday, October 26. In this creative writing and performance workshop series, anyone with a story to offer, an interesting/dramatic character to present, or an interest in connecting...
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Must See Play “Other Desert Cities” by the Headwall Theatre Company
The Headwall Theatre Company’s production of “Other Desert Cities” will be wrapping up its final three performances of the Tony and Pulitzer nominated play this weekend at The Greek Cultural Center in Astoria. OANA are proud supporters of the Headwall Theatre Company’s work and encourage everyone to attend and...
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November 5 Election Ballot Initiatives
The New York City 2019 Charter Revision Commission has put five initiatives on the ballot for the November 5th election. OANA implores all voters to go over these proposals, so they can make informed decisions. We have not yet taken any positions on this and look forward to receiving...
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NYC’s Repair of Tree damaged Sidewalks
At our next OANA meeting on Oct. 8th, NYC Parks Forestry (Trees) will be joining us, and we look forward to an extremely interesting presentation (Note: NYS Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan will also be joining us). However, the Parks specialist on the newly announced Sidewalk Repair program, (in which the...
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OANA October 2019 Monthly Meeting
Please join us: Find out about your neighbors, local issues, and ask questions of city agencies, local elected, and civic leaders. Our goal is to provide a voice to Old Astorians, and address the quality of life cultural, and economic issues that affect us all. Our next meeting is...
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OANA Seminars
In the coming year, we at OANA would like to expand the services we are offering. A space for classes and symposia has been offered to us by our VP Kevin Hernandez, and we want to take the opportunity to amplify one of our mission statements, the education of...
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PS 171 in Old Astoria gets Solar Power
PS 171 in Old Astoria is the first of six schools in Councilman Costa Constantinides District that will receive solar panels within the next two years. The installation of the green infrastructure will teach students about the impact of renewable energy in addition cutting carbon emissions. 1.5 Million dollars...
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Noguchi Museum Stone Carving Studio
The Noguchi Museum is providing hands-on stone carving classes on October 6, 13, 20, & 27. 2:00 pm to 4:00 Pm Introductory stone carving techniques: Learn how to create forms and polish surfaces using hand tools. For ages 18 and older. Space is limited: Registration fee required. Photos: Katherine...
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CPR Instruction with OANA and East Hudson Realty
In our mission to educate and improve the quality of life in Old Astoria, OANA has partnered with East Hudson Realty to provide training in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). We invited the Fire Dept Emergency Medical Services (EMS) to provide instruction on this vital skill. There is no more...
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Immigration Advocacy Services 30th Anniversary Gala
The Immigration Advocacy Services will be holding its 30th Anniversary Gala at Riccardo’s By The Bridge on October 5th, 2019. The event will include a Dinner Dance, Live Band and Full Bar all through the night. You can find out more about the event and purchase tickets here. The...
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Worms on our trees
This year it seems we have a lot of caterpillars on our trees. They are consuming most of the leaves, and some of our neighbors are concerned. We reached out to Parks, and were told the following: The fall webworm is native to our region and the impact of...
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Shore Blvd Flooding
As many of you know, the flooding on Shore Blvd reached extreme levels this summer. Cars were unable to pass, and some events had to be postponed or canceled. We were fortunate to have Mr. Robert Oliveri, Community Coordinator with the NYC Dept of Environmental Protection present at our...
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When Trees Attack Sidewalks, Homeowners Now Off the Hook
Good news for NYC homeowners: the City has just announced a change in policy regarding damage to sidewalks caused by city trees. Up to now, if a the spreading roots of a city tree damaged the sidewalk in front of a home, the City would issue a lien against...
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Blessing of the Pets
St George’s Episcopal Church Presents the “Blessing of the Pets” Saturday, October 5th at 9 AM on the lawn All faiths welcomed! Pet catering by Chateau le Woof! For more info call 718 721 5154 or email stgeorge.astoria@gmail.com
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Weatherization Workshop
Free Energy Education and Weatherization Workshop Presented By the New York Power Authority and St George Episcopal Church 14-20 27th Ave Astoria NY 11102 Saturday Oct 26th, 10 am to 1:30 pm Or Sunday October 27th, 12:30 pm to 3 Pm Registration Required; Space limited to 30 people Online:...
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Street Cleaning Come to Old Astoria Sept 16th
The new Street Cleaning signage is up! Street Cleaning will begin Sept 16th. Please make sure you follow Alternate Side regulations. We are pleased that the local media has helped in notifying the neighborhood of upcoming changes in Parking Requirements in Old Astoria. We want to thank them for...
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CPR Training
East Hudson Realty and OANA have teamed up to present a special event that everyone who has a loved one or wants to be ready to help his neighbor should attend! Training in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) will be provided by the FDNY EMS. We urge everyone to join us....
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Hallett’s Point Alliance
Hallett’s Peninsula has seen a lot of changes, from a Supermarket, New Residential Buildings, and now a performance and event space. This performance space will not only provide a much needed public facility to the residents of Hallets Peninsula, it will also act as a destination for all New...
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New Development across from Hallets Cove
Over 500 new apartments are coming to the Astoria waterfront in the next few years. Cape Advisors has just released renderings of their new development. This development is “As of Right”, which means it is within the existing zoning parameters and does not need any special zoning changes to...
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Brooklyn Harvest Grand Opening on September 7th
Brooklyn Harvest is having their Grand Opening Festival on September 7th from 11 am to 7 PM! Their greatly anticipated supermarket, so badly needed on Hallets Peninsula, has proven to be a huge asset improving everyone’s quality of life. They have been supportive of many local organizations, such as...
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OANA September Monthly Meeting
Summer is winding down and we are beginning our season of community events. Please join us: Find out about your neighbors, local issues, and ask questions of city agencies, local elected, and civic leaders. Our goal is to provide a voice to Old Astorians, and address the quality of...
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Backpack Giveaway
Hope your summer has been going great so far! For those with kids, you may already be thinking about shopping for back-to-school. St. George’s Episcopal Church knows that this can be an expensive time of year for many families, so they are hosting a Backpack Giveaway on Saturday, August...
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New Street Cleaning Schedule in Old Astoria
A 20-year journey to establish Street Cleaning in Old Astoria has finally been realized. This Monday August 12th, new signage will be installed providing street cleaning 1 day per week per side (a total of 2 times per week) in Old Astoria. Not only will this contribute to cleanliness...
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Retail Business Taxes
We read with interest an article in PATCH that shows, in addition to rents, the city’s tax on business is proving to be a real impediment to successful enterprise. We all know that rising rents are causing many businesses to fold. But the City needs to accept some responsibility...
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Waterfront Planning Camp
Please join the Department of City Planning (DCP) for their first ever visioning event! ‘Waterfront Planning Camp’ will take place on Saturday, August 17th on Governors Island, from 12 noon to 4 pm. Together with the artists of Works on Water, DCP will host an afternoon of fun activities,...
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National Night Out against Crime August 6th, 2019
Every summer, one of our neighborhoods great events is the National Night Out Against Crime. This year it is taking place on August 6th, 2019 from 5 to 8 PM at in the Astoria Park Great Lawn. “National Night Out Against Crime” (NNO)is a National Crime Prevention event. It is...
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The BioBus Comes to Hallets Cove
Astoria students of all ages will have the opportunity to study marine life and science in Hallets Cove this summer. The NYC EDC’s BioBus Mobile Research Lab will be parked near the Astoria Houses Community Center to offer free educational programs. The schedule for the BioBus is Mondays from...
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Tour of Hallets Point Development
The Durst Organization has provided the following “Tour” on its first building for its Hallets Point Development. The 2 buildings, which sit at 26 Ave between 1st and 2nd St, are next to Whitey Ford Field, and will help to activate the portion of Hallets Peninsula that today is...
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All-Star-Game at Whitey Ford Field
Neil Herdan and Blair Clancy, Co-Chairs of Friends of Whitey Ford Field were covered in the Queens Gazette and Queens Chronicle last week. Both volunteers are members of OANA. Neil wrote a brief story about the Queens Lighted Softball Association’s All-Star Game at Whitey Ford Field in the Queens...
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Queens Chamber of Commerce Support Extension of Astoria Ferry to Upper East Side
OANA has been advocating for extending Astoria’s ferry service to the Upper East Side since last year. As we mention in our position paper, both areas would experience considerable benefits to business, tourism, culture, employment, and residential housing. Tom Grech, President of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, has a...
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Robert De Niro Backed Film Studio To Open in Astoria
A Bronx Tale, shot in Astoria with Robert De Niro, will be a vision for the future of our neighborhood! More information on the proposed Film Studio being backed by the De Niro family in Astoria. The New York Times has published an overview of the proposed studio, including...
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Friends of Whitey Ford Field Set To Speak At City Parks Foundation‘s workshop
Friends of Whitey Ford Field will be a featured speaker at the City Parks Foundation‘s workshop, “Making Headlines: How Park Groups Can Work with the Press.” July 15, 2019. OANA is proud to announce that Friends of Whitey Ford Field has been invited to present on their success in...
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The QLSA Annual Mega All-star Softball Game
The Old Astoria Neighborhood Association (OANA) is pleased to notify everyone of an important event this Wednesday on Hallets Peninsula. The Queens Lighted Softball Association will be hosting its annual mega all-star softball game Wednesday, July 10th at Whitey Ford Field in Astoria. Festivities will start with a home...
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Ferry Extension and Astoria Waterfront Arts District
QNS.com has written a great article discussing OANA’s position on the extension of the Astoria ferry to the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Also discussed is the proposed Arts District on the Astoria Waterfront! Please take a moment to SIGN THE FERRY EXTENSION PETITION! Media coverage is extremely important in...
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Albany Gives NYC Design Build Authority
The highlight of this years NYS Legislative session, which OANA has supported over the years, is the authorization to allow NYC capital projects to be built under “Design Build” standards. This streamlines the process, allowing an entity to control both the design and construction. This will reduce redundancies, and...
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The Western Queens Gazette’s overview of OANA Summer on the Waterfront
We are pleased to receive coverage of our recent meeting exploring recreational and cultural events on the Astoria Waterfront for summer 2019. The Western Queens Gazette provided an informative overview of our meeting. Recreational Participants Dori Cocoros (Astoria Park Alliance), Audrey Dimola (Socrates Sculpture Park), Jennifer Lorch (The Noguchi...
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Astoria Houses Senior Center Saved
We applaud our elected officials for saving the Senior Center in Astoria Houses. Through the efforts of these officials, and the advocacy of Claudia Coger, President of the Astoria Houses Tenants Association, Mayor De Blasio’s proposal to close the center has been stopped. Senior Center Saved! We should not...
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Summer on the Astoria Waterfront
The June meeting of the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association (OANA) featured our NYC Parks District Manager, our District 22 City Council Member, and representatives from the cultural and recreational institutions on the Astoria waterfront to give us a preview of all the great events and programs to come this...
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Disability Insurance Discrimination Affects Local Businesses
PIX 11 News recently released a story about discrimination in disability insurance affecting local businesses–and one Queens lawmaker is aiming to change that. Kafia Saxe, owner of Communitea in Long Island City, told PIX11 that disability insurance for her female employees costs more than double what it does for...
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De Niro and Astoria: Unbeatable combination
Hollywood East Coast “Astoria” has a new film studio in the works! And an early investor is Robert De Niro. This is also an example how an investment by the city and state in an industry can lead to benefits the whole community can enjoy, contrary to some who...
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Mount Sinai Queens Blood Drive on Thursday June 20
What if you could save lives by donating an hour of your time—and a pint of blood? On Thursday June 20 from 7.30 am to 7.30 pm, New York Blood Center mobile vans will be stationed in the street outside Mount Sinai Queens, at 25-10 30th Avenue. No registration...
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Queens Green Day Festival
Socrates Sculpture Park’s Queens Green Day Festival returns on Saturday June 8 from 12 noon to 4 pm. Come get more connected to the Earth while you reach for the stars in the current Chronos Cosmos exhibition. The event will feature activities and demos from Socrates partners Hellgate Farm,...
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2nd Annual Ford Family Day 2019
Thanks to the support of the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association, Friends of Whitey Ford Field (FOWFF) is launching a digital marketing campaign to promote its 2nd Annual Ford Family Day at Whitey Ford Field, 26th Avenue, and 2nd Street, June 1st. The group is taking advantage of the LINKNYC...
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Family Fun at Rainey Park on June 2nd
Central Astoria LDC’s popular Family Fun at Rainey Park event returns on Sunday June 2nd from 12 noon to 3pm. Come join your neighbors and enjoy face painting, balloon art, and planting crafts, as well as performances by Music for Aardvarks, Claire’s Creative Adventures for Kids, and Wondersock Puppets....
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Congressional Field Hearing on the 2020 Census
Curious to learn more about the 2020 Census? The Congressional Oversight and Government Reform Committee is holding a Field Hearing on the Census on Tuesday May 28 at 2 pm, at LaGuardia Community College, in the Little Theater, 31-10 Thomson Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101. “Getting Counted: The...
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Enhanced Pedestrian Crossings
OANA just received notification from the NYC Department of Transportation of enhanced pedestrians crossing at 18th st and Astoria Park South. “We are pleased to Announce that DOT will be implementing an enhanced crossing at the intersection of Astoria Park South at 18th Street. Please see the description of an...
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The Importance of Libraries in our Community
OANA recognizes the great importance of Libraries in our community and greatly appreciated the presentation by outgoing Astoria Library Brach manager Gus Tsekelis at our last monthly meeting on May 14th. He gave a great presentation on the history and upcoming capital projects of the “Carnegie” library. Both Councilman...
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Registration Open for East River RBI Little League
District Council Member Costa Constantinides and HANAC Astoria Cornerstone are proud to present East River RBI Little League. Ages 7-8 and ages 9-10. There will be 2 divisions and 6 teams per division. Registration is currently open, families should go to HANAC Astoria Cornerstone at 4-05 Astoria Blvd to...
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New Opportunities for Retail and Food Operators in the New LaGuardia Airport
LaGuardia Gateway Partners (LGP) is pleased to announce that their Competitive Solicitation Process (CSP) for food and retail operators at Terminal B’s Western Concourse has been released. The Western Concourse–the final phase of the new Terminal B–will start to welcome passengers in late 2020. LGP remains committed to engaging...
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Independence Day Celebration in Astoria Park
It’s almost time to celebrate our nation’s birthday! Central Astoria LDC invites you to join them for their 35th Anniversary Independence Day Celebration on Thursday, June 27, at the Astoria Park Great Lawn. The Queens Symphony Orchestra will play at 7.30 pm, followed by Fireworks by Grucci at 9...
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Upcoming Events at St. George’s Church
There will be two great events at St. George’s Episcopal Church that you won’t want to miss! On Saturday May 18, the Church hosts Sacred Sites Open House from 9 am to 5 pm. There will be free tours of this historic church and cemetery and learn about the...
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Father’s Day Classic Car Show on June 16
Looking for a truly cool event this Father’s Day? You won’t want to miss the Classic Car Show that Astoria Park Alliance is hosting along Shore Boulevard beside the Park on Sunday June 16 from 11 am to 2.30 pm. Shore Blvd aka “The Strip” will be closed to...
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Melanie LaRocca named new NYC Department of Buildings Commissioner
It was announced that Melanie La Rocca has been named the new Commissioner of the Department of Buildings OANA congratulates Melanie. A local resident, Melanie has served on our Community Board. I have also been privileged to serve with Melanie on the Community Board’s Land Use Committee. We look...
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City Plans to Close the Senior Center at the Astoria Houses
In distressing news for the Astoria Houses residents who used the Senior Center at 4-05 Astoria Blvd, the Mayor’s office is threatening to close the center, giving as their reason low attendance at the center—but local elected officials dispute that rationale. District 22 Council Member Costa Constantinides told WPIX...
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Setting Up for Socrates Sculpture Park’s New Season
It’s that time of the year when April showers bring May flowers and the new season of art, activities and events at Socrates Sculpture Park. Their new exhibition Chronos Cosmos: Deep Time, Open Space opens on May 5 and runs to September 2. Participating artists include Radcliffe Bailey, Beatriz...
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Upper East Side to Astoria Ferry Access
OANA has strongly supported the extension of the Astoria Ferry to originate at the Upper East Side Soundview landing . Please read our statement. The NYC EDC and Hornblower, operator of the Ferry, will be presenting at our next meeting on May 14th, at St George Episcopal Church, 1420...
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Earth Day Tree Planting in Astoria
NY Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul helped volunteers from One Tree Planted and the city’s Parks Department plant a young sapling in Astoria on Earth Day, April 22. OANA President Richard Khuzami and NYC Queens Parks Commissioner Michael Dockett were among the guests who also participated. – Photo Dean Moses...
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Winners of District 22 Participatory Budgeting Ballots
The District 22 PB votes have been tallied. More than 2,500 residents took the time to partake in this grassroots example of democracy at work. The five projects with the most votes will be funded through c. $1 million in capital funds under the Fiscal Year 2020 budget, which...
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The Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) Annual Gala
Authors: Clare Doyle; Richard Khuzami On May 20th at 6:30 at the Museum of the Moving Image, APAC is having their annual gala. Please support Astoria’s award-winning community theater institution, in what promises to be an entertaining evening. APAC’s production of Caroline, or Change, will run from May 2...
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NYC Council Passes Climate Mobilization Bill
On April 18, the New York City Council passed a bill that requires buildings more than 25,000 square feet to reduce emissions 40 percent by the year 2030, and 80 percent by the year 2050. Other provisions of the Climate Mobilization Act include phasing out the city’s non-renewable energy power...
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Permits filed for Building on Hallets Peninsula
Last year, we reported on the sale of property on 4th street on Hallets Peninsula. The new owner has been issued permits for a new 7 story building on this site. As per the Astoria Post article, his “plans with the Department of Buildings are for a 7-story, 99-unit, residential building...
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