Better Bus Service on 21st street in Astoria/LIC
The NYC Department of Transportation has begun the process of reaching out to the community to determine the creation of a “Better Bus” service on 21st street in Astoria/LIC. While many concerns regarding 21st street were discussed, the primary goal is to establish dedicated Bus lanes. They have provided...
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Central Astoria LDC 2021 Waterfront Music and Concert Series
Summer movies, concerts, and celebrations have returned to Astoria Park courtesy of the Central Astoria LDC. Make sure to bring a blanket or chair! Enjoy!
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Queens Public Library Time Capsule
Monday, June 7, 2021, marked a memorable moment in the history of The Queens Public Library (QPL). In celebration of the library’s 125 anniversary, Queens Public Library President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott was joined by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., New York City Council Member Jimmy Van...
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Queens Property Tax Reform Hearing on June 9
OANA received information from the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit about an upcoming Queens hearing on June 9 in regards to the NYC Advisory Commission on Property Tax Reform’s 10 initial recommendations to reform the property tax system hosted by the Commission. The borough-based Zoom hearing will begin at 6:00pm....
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NYC Hospitality Alliance, MTA Event supporting Small Business
Old Astoria Neighborhood Association, along with Queens Together were invited to an event hosted by the NYC Hospitality Alliance, along with the MTA, Chefs, Restauranteurs, and other dignitaries. 24/7 subway service, plus the MTA’s #TakeTheTrain and #TakeTheBus Campaign to encourage people to use public transportation to explore neighborhoods and...
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“The Blues Brothers” Radial Park Newest Feature!
Radial Park opened its latest multi-discipline entertainment experience last Thursday, May 27 at 8:00 PM with the classic film, The Blues Brothers. This is another great cultural event and venue in Astoria, as Queens in general, and Astoria specifically, becomes a sought-after host for great cultural experiences. As the...
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Applications Accepted June 1 For The NYS Emergency Rental Assistance Program
OANA has received the following from the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development. Attention Property Owners: The New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) provides assistance to New York City households who are behind on their rent. Low- to moderate-income households can get up to 12 months...
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The 2021 Tribeca Film Festival Screenings in Astoria Park
The 2021 Tribeca Film Festival will be bringing its diverse selection of screenings to our neighborhood in Astoria Park. The prestigious annual film festival will run for 12 days, from June 9th to June 20th. For the first time in its history, the festival will be coming to all...
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Queens Borough President Hate Crimes Forum
The Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. will be hosting a Hate Crimes Forum on Tuesday, May 25th, from 6pm until 8pm. The webinar will take place on Zoom and is open to the general public. Residents of Old Astoria interested in joining this interactive event can RSVP or...
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NYC Mobile Vaccine Bus AStoria 5/23
The Astoria Mutual Aid Network’s Team Vaccine has informed us that the NYC mobile vaccine bus will be returning to Astoria at 31st Avenue and Broadway tomorrow, Sunday 5/23 from 8am to 4pm. They’ll be offering second shots to anyone who was vaccinated there during the ROAR NY x...
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Emergency Broadband Benefit
OANA received the following information on a new program to assist in internet services for qualified New Yorkers. From: The NYC Department of Youth and Community Development As we make progress in the war against COVID-19, so many New Yorkers still struggle to make ends meet. Beginning today, qualified...
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Speed Limit Lowered on Astoria Blvd
Today the Mayor’s office announced that speed limits will be reduced on 45 miles of major streets with some the highest rates of crashes across Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. The announcement kicks off Streets Week!, a weeklong blitz of transportation announcements. Our neighborhood is affected. Astoria...
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BUILD THE BLOCK REMINDER
OANA would like to let everyone know that the NYPD 114th Precinct Sector David “Build the Block”, presented by the NCO (Neighborhood Coordination Officers), will take place on Tuesday May 11th virtually on zoom. Please join them to discover local community issues and concerns. Thank you and be safe....
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Dirt Bike Pack In Astoria Park
OANA would like to give a great big shout-out to the Astoria Park Alliance for their initiative in dealing with Dirt Bike and Motorcycle issues in the park… Their tweets made the entire city aware of what we are dealing with locally, especially since the Pandemic! They reach out...
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New Noguchi Museum Program – Useless Architecture
Noguchi Museum Presents: NOGUCHI: Useless Architecture Using Architecture to reimagine Sculpture Exhibition dates: May 19, 2021 – May 8, 2022 Noguchi has announced their new exhibition for the coming season. “Useless Architecture” For a concise explanation, please see their website. Photo: Isamu Noguchi, Capital, 1939. Georgia marble. Collection of...
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David Burgoa of NHS of Queens Presentation – Jobs at the New LaGuardia Airport
During the last OANA meeting on April 14th, we were privileged to a presentation by David Burgoa of the Neighborhood Housing Service of Queens.(NHS of Queens). Many of you may have missed this important presentation because it was at the end of 2 hours. Therefore, we wanted to reintroduce...
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Real Estate Development, Affordable Housing and Finance
Nothing gets built without Financing! Whether public or private, funds to cover construction costs of projects is the most important aspect of how our communities grow. And whether a developer enlists Banks or other formal lending institutions, Private lenders, Capital Investors, Govt and Unions pension Funds, etc.), or public...
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Our heartfelt condolences to Costa Constantinides on the passing of his wife
All of us at the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to former Councilman Costa Constantinides on the passing of his wife, Lori. This has been the most trying year for all of us, but especially Costa, and we stand ready to help in...
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Open Streets Open Restaurants – Spring in Astoria
Since the pandemic started, OANA has partnered with the 30th Avenue Business Association to try to help our small businesses, especially restaurants survive in the trying environment. One of the tools we have tried to apply is Open Streets Open Restaurants. This is the city program that closes streets...
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Astoria West! New Development across from Hallets Cove
OANA was invited to the topping off of a new “As of Right” development on the Astoria Waterfront! Across from Hallets Cove, these apartments should prove to be an asset to our community. From the developer: “Astoria West sits on a prime stretch of land along Astoria’s burgeoning waterfront,...
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Sanitation Budget Cuts Reversed
OANA has received a press release regarding the proposed cuts to the Sanitation budget Mayor Bill de Blasio has established 3 initiatives to provide resources in hard-hit neighborhoods. Clean streets are an important public-private responsibility. With the previously proposed cuts, our local quality of life was at risk. Now...
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Costa Constantinides Moves On
Councilman Costa Constantinides has accepted a position with the Variety Boys and Girls Club in Astoria. This is consistent with his desire to work for our Community, and we are lucky that he has decided to continue with this essential organization. In an era when most politicians, after they...
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21st Street Transit Priority and Safety Study
Plan to create expedited bus service on 21st street The NYC DOT is beginning the process of obtaining community input on the creation of bus lanes on 21st street from Hoyt Avenue North to Queens Plaza North. The goal of these bus lanes will be to create expedited public...
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A New 18th Story Building On Hallets Peninsula
External renderings have been released of a new 18-story residential building located at 26-25 Fourth Street,in Astoria, Queens. The architect is J Frankl Associates. The building will contain 165 apartments and a suite of amenity spaces that include on-site parking, a communal lounge, fitness and co-working facilities, a children’s playroom, and...
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Whitey Ford Field Renovations Break Ground
After years of neglect, which lead to unsafe and dangerous conditions, a 2.9 Million dollar renovation is starting on Whitey Ford Field on Halletts Peninsula on the Astoria Waterfront. The ceremony included Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Councilmember Costa Constantinides, Community Board Chair Marie Torniali, and Queens Parks Commissioner...
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In-Home Vaccinations for Fully Homebound New York City Residents Only
OANA received the following updates on vaccination efforts in nyc. Please forward this information to anyone you think may benefit from the services described below. Please see below for information on an in-home vaccination interest form, transportation assistance options for seniors, and job opportunities to support vaccination efforts. ...
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PUBLIC HEARING: REVERSE SANITATION BUDGET CUTS
As you know, one major mission of the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association is to advocate for quality of life issues. We have used advocacy, both written and physical, to meet goals. One of our most successful was to get the city to begin street cleaning in Old Astoria a...
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New Waterfront Project to include a Community Center
Old Astoria Neighborhood Association has received word of a new project on our waterfront that seems at first glance to meet so many critical needs locally according to an article from New York Yimby With a 14-story mixed-use building near the waterfront edge of Long Island City, Node Architecture has revealed...
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REVEL Updates Their Service and Products
Revel, the MOPED service provider for New York City, has continued to enhance their services and products. OANA has supported REVEL, especially since they voluntarily suspended service last year to enhance their safety procedures. To our knowledge, these safety enhancements, including taking a picture of your helmet properly placed...
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Erosion and Flooding Study requested by Congresswoman Maloney
Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney has reached out to the Army Corp of Engineers to commence a study on erosion and flooding on Hallets Peninsula. While work will be commencing on a NYC Parks renovation of the seawall soon, a study is needed to make sure that these renovations last. You...
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Astoria Library Renovation
The NYC Design and Construction agency presented their designs for the upcoming renovations of the Astoria Library, at the corner of 14th street and Astoria Blvd in Old Astoria. This Carnegie Library has been an essential part of our neighborhood, and with the accessibility improvements, will become an even...
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Baby Queensbridge Park Visioning
OANA’s president Richard Khuzami attended the recent visioning for Baby Queensbridge Park. The Queens Daily Eagle recently wrote an article that mentioned him and other local residents. One note, however: An important issue regarding the BIG REUSE and their mulching facility currently in use under the Queensboro Bridge: Parks...
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Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge Gets A New Bike and Pedestrian Lane
We at OANA thank everyone who pointed out our error on our original post. This type of interaction is essential to make sure good information gets out there…Keep up the good work!!!! We checked with the Mayor’s office and got the following: On the Queensboro Bridge, we will begin...
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Mount Sinai Queens Covid19 Update
OANA has received the below update from Mount Sinai Queens in regards to the latest news about COVID-19. While numbers of patients testing positive for COVID-19 and those needing hospitalization continue to rise, Mount Sinai Queens is fully prepared to take care of all of our patients. We learned...
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NYC Ferry Contactless ticketing starting February 1, 2021
OANA received some vital information regarding ticketing on the NYC Ferry. Changes are coming: For everyone’s safety and convenience: Contactless ticketing and boarding! NYC Ferry is moving to completely contactless ticketing starting February 1, 2021. What does this mean for you? While the changes are relatively minor, here are...
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Riccardo’s Site Has Been Sold
The Iconic Riccardo’s site has been sold for $6.4 million, according to Alexander Pereira, a real estate broker with Douglas Elliman. The new owner also purchased another adjacent site at 23-91 21st Street. This is the latest major change in the neighborhood. In 2006, the Eagle Electric Mfg building across...
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Community Board Applications Are Now Online
Applications to serve on one of the Queens’s 14 community boards are now online. The process is now fully digitized. Criteria are “qualified and civic-minded individuals” to represent the neighborhoods where they live or work as a member of their local community board, according to a news release. Prospective...
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Sanitation Garage Move Closer to Reality
The NYC Uniform Land Use Procedure (ULURP), which governs most land-use changes, also governs the moving of the Sanitation Facility on 21st street to 19th Avenue in LIC/Astoria. OANA is pleased to advise that the ULURP procedure has been successfully completed, and the move of the Sanitation Facility from...
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Eight Story Building Coming to Broadway
A new residential and Commercial building will soon begin construction in front of LIC High School. Ter lot at 14-41 Broadway is currently vacant, under the ownership of Steven Rogogiannis. The 79 ft tall project will consist of a new mixed-use (residential and commercial) building. The building will give...
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Christmas Tree-cycling
OANA would like to share the following from the NYC Dept of sanitation. “Best Smelling Collection Trucks in the City” – It’s Time for Christmas “Tree-cycling” Using Curbside Collection? – Please, “Naked” Trees Only – No Bags or Decorations! The New York City Department of Sanitation has announced its...
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Christmas Holiday Schedule For New York Waterway Ferries
NY Waterway will operate on modified weekday service on Christmas Eve (Thursday, December 24). Service will not run on Christmas Day (Friday, December 25). Normal weekend service will run December 26 and 27 for passengers traveling to or from both Midtown (39th Street Terminal) and Downtown (Brookfield Place). For...
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New Building on 21st Street
The 21st street corridor in Old Astoria is getting a new Mixed-Use building! The lot has been purchased by “30-75 21ST Street LLC” of Darien Ct. with funding from ERG Commercial Real Estate. Permits were pulled at the Dept of Buildings to demolish 30-75 21st St. (corner of 30th...
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Whitey Ford Street Renaming
The Old Astoria Neighborhood Association, The Friends of Whitey Ford Field, and especially the family of Whitey Ford want to thank Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer for facilitating the renaming of 43rd St at 34th avenue for a favorite son of Astoria, Yankees great Edward Charles “Whitey” Ford. Whitey spent...
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Outdoor Performances Permitted
The Old Astoria Neighborhood Association applauds a recent bill passed by the City Council that will allow Artists to hold performances open streets. And they will be able to charge for these events. OANA has long advocated for this, as expressed in a recent post about bringing back performing...
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Save our Community Compost Processing Sites
OANA supports the effort to save the Big Reuse compost site under the Queensboro Bridge new Queensbridge Baby Park. The City wants to convert it to a parking lot. See below to see how you can support the effort to keep the Compost Site alive. ============================ Information from Justin...
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OANA Meeting Live Virtual Performance with Singer/Songwriter Virginia Marcs
At the next OANA meeting on December 16th, we will be starting a program of virtual live performances that will be a part of all of our monthly meetings. Our initial performance will be with Singer/Songwriter Virginia Marcs. “Her voice, much like Ani DiFranco and Janis Joplin, is a...
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Bringing Back Performing Arts
No sector of our economy has been hit harder by the COVID 19 pandemic than the Performing Arts: Dance, Music, Theater, Poetry. Even restaurants have had some economic activity. The Arts are being treated as third-class……the least “essential” workers in New York. From what we understand, live performances that...
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No Questions Asked Gun Buy Back Program
OANA fully supports the initiative from the Queens District Attorneys Office for a Gun Buy Back program locally administered. No Questions Asked! December 5th, 2020 10 am to 4 pm Our Lady of Mt Carmel Church Mt Carmel Institute Building 23-20 Newtown Ave Long Island City, Astoria NY 11102...
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Donate Blood This Month and You Could Win Cool Prizes
New York City is badly in need of blood donations. The need is so severe that The New York Blood Center is launching a new campaign, “Give Blood NYC,” with the goal of 25,000 blood donations by New Year’s Eve. Those who donate blood can enter a sweepstake to...
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COVID-19 and Eye Care
On Thursday December 10 at noon, Mount Sinai Queens is hosting a free online event that will be discussing eye care as it relates to the pandemic. Dr. Varun Pawar, Assistant Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, answers questions such as: How does the...
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OANA Supports New Community Greenspace
OANA President Richard Khuzami attended a recent local event held by the new group Astoria Urban Agriculture Alliance (AUAA) who want to create a community garden and educational space on an unused lot on Hoyt Avenue North between 19th and 21st Streets. Richard told those gathered how good it...
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City Waterfront Planning – Comments And Feedback Are Welcome
OANA received the following from The NYC Department of City Planning, and we would like to share this. An opportunity to provide your personal input and insights on NYC’s waterfront. Comments are being accepted until November 30th, 2020. Over the past two months, DCP hosted 12 virtual workshops to...
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Socrates Sculpture Park: The beginnings
Socrates Sculpture Park, a Cultural Pillar of Old Astoria, has an interesting origin story, evolving out of a rat-infested illegal dumpsite to today’s hybrid Park and Museum which has been such an Oasis for all New Yorkers, especially during the Pandemic. To view this story, please join Socrates’s Director...
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APAC New Venue
OANA has received the following Press release from the Astoria Performing Arts Center regarding a new space for performances. Ever since they lost their home at the Good Shepard Church on Crescent St. they have been searching for a stable home. During these days when so many live performance...
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Ditmars COVID Outreach
OANA Received the following from the Mayor’s office: They will be handing out literature and distributing masks………(They are not giving tests) “I hope all is well. We will be having a Get Tested Tuesday! outreach effort in Astoria next Tuesday, 11/24. We will be working to engage folks right...
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Citibike Town Hall Rescheduled
There was a Citibike Town Hall sponsored by the NYC DOT October 28th that was beset by many technical issues. This town Hall discussed the expansion of Citibike in Western Queens. Therefore, another Town Hall has been scheduled for November 19th at 6 PM. For all those who participated...
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New 4-way Stop at Astoria Blvd 12th Street
We at OANA would like to thank the NYC DOT, and especially our local planner John O’Neill for helping to expedite the creation of a 4-way stop and crosswalk at Astoria Blvd and 12th street. This is the culmination of a collaborative effort involving local organizations and elected officials...
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Retail Open Streets
Mayor de Blasio has announced a new Open Storefronts initiative, which began on October 30th. This program will run through December 31st, affording a boost to retail for the Holiday Season. Retailers, and services such as repair shops, personal care and laundry can participate. Business owners can apply for...
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All You Need To Know About Masks
The NY Times has published an interesting article regarding masks, descriptions, how they work, what is effective. It is interesting reading for everyone. We hope it clarifies any questions you may have. Interesting information especially about how particles are blocked, and great graphics!
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Jamie-Faye Bean Is Making A Positive Impact On The Community
Every once in a while, we see an example of someone whose actions positively affect so many that we urge everyone to take note! Such an instance is our friend Jamie-Faye Bean. Jaime-Faye is director of Sunnyside Smiles, a Business Improvement District (BID) in Sunnyside NY, and has been...
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NYC Ferry Winter Schedule & Changes to the East River Route
The NYC Ferry winter schedule goes into effect on Monday, November 2, 2020. View the new schedules on ferry.nyc before you commute. Also on November 2, there will be a modification to the East River route which will re-order the East River landings. This change will increase seat capacity for...
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Hallets Cove Waterfront Revitalization
In very welcome news, it was recently announced that habitat restoration in Hallets Cove will begin in early 2021. The plan is to clean up trash from the East River, which has in the past been used as a dumping ground,, restore the riverbank’s ecology, and safely remove the...
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Titan Theater Virtual Season
For the best in classic theater, please support Titan Theater in their upcoming virtual season. As all the performing arts wrestle with the new reality of virtual performance, let’s all do what we can to make sure our cultural institutions survive and thrive in the new environment. The Titan...
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Astoria Performing Arts Center Virtual Season
Astoria’s award-winning community theater, Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) is opening its virtual season. OANA has been a long-time supporter, and we urge everyone to enjoy the performances as we all get used to these new virtual mediums for the performing arts! For more information on their theatrical piece,...
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Exhibition: Q100
The Q100 bus line has been running through the heart of Astoria for many years, but it is also a lifeline for the families of inmates at Riker’s Island. This line is the subject of a new photo exhibit currently on display in Astoria Park. Photographer Salvador Espinoza,...
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Citibike Expansion
Citibike is expanding in our neighborhood, and they are looking for our input!!! Old Astoria will be participating in the “INFILL” process explained below (We already have a Citibike presence, it is just being augmented) They will have a virtual public town hall next Wednesday, October 28th @ 6 PM in conjunction...
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Mural depicting Newtown Creek, a dark past and hopefully a bright future
On Wednesday, October 21, GreenPoint Innovations (GPI), Newtown Creek Alliance (NCA), and the Hunters Point Campus community hosted the unveiling of a public art mural created by artist Federico Massa aka. Iena Cruz winner of the GreenPoint EARTH 2020: Screens2Streets ‘Streets’ Award competition. Environmentally themed public art has been...
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Noguchi Newsletter
One of our cultural gems on the waterfront, Noguchi Museum, has issued their latest newsletter on upcoming programs and events. The recent reopening of our cultural institutions is another important step towards normalcy We urge everyone to enjoy the programs and exhibitions of this wonderful institution, spend a wonderful...
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Astoria’s Socrates Sculpture Park Director To Step Down
John Hatfield, executive director of Socrates Sculpture Park, will step down from his post, the nonprofit announced on Wednesday, October 14th. Executive director of the outdoor art space since 2012, Hatfield will leave the nonprofit as soon as its board of directors has chosen his successor, according to a...
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2020 Boroughwide Winter Coat Drive Announcement
In partnership with all 14 Queens Community Boards, Acting Queens Borough President Sharon Lee has announced the launch of a boroughwide coat drive to support families in need as the cold weather months approach. From now through Friday, November 13th, community members can drop off new adult and children’s...
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Outdoor Dining Update from Mayor & NYC Hospitality Alliance
Mayor Bill de Blasio joined the Department of Buildings (DOB), Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) today to release thorough guidance for city restaurants planning to stay open and serve customers outdoors with heating devices this fall and winter. The announcement furthers New...
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APAC Kicks Off 20th Season with Online Benefit Performance
Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) in association with Theater East is kicking off its 20th Anniversary season with American Arcana, an apocalyptic comedy by Cyndi Williams of survival and the fight for a better tomorrow. The show will feature recorded and live performances by an ensemble which includes several...
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In Memory of Whitey Ford, Astoria’s Native Son
The Old Astoria Neighborhood Association and members of Friends of Whitey Ford Field would like to express our deepest condolences to Joan Ford, Whitey Ford’s wife of 69 years, and her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Whitey and Joan met in Astoria and were married at St Patrick’s RC Church...
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Socrates Sculpture Park “MONUMENTS NOW – Part II: Call and Response” on Display This Saturday
MONUMENTS NOW, an exhibition examining the role of monuments in American society and championing underrepresented histories and marginalized peoples, continues at Socrates Sculpture Park this Saturday, October 10th, with the unveiling of ten new monuments projects by the Park’s 2020 Artist Fellows: Daniel Bejar, Fontaine Capel, Dionisio Cortes Ortega,...
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VOTE 2020: Important dates for New York State residents
The following are important dates for New York State residents to make sure they do not lose their right to vote. In this volatile year, YOUR VOTE MATTERS. Voter Registration: October 9th Applications must be postmarked no later than October 9, 2020 and received by a board of elections...
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Radial Park Opened Theatrical Drive-In With PHANTOM OF THE OPERA
Halletts Point and Stark Production Group marked the official opening of Radial Park at Hallets Point Play with Broadway’s longest-running show, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera on Thursday, October 1st. This one-of-a-kind performance showed the 25th Anniversary Gala Performance of The Phantom of the Opera recorded...
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NY Port Authority Promotes AirTrain
Days after a pair of public hearings, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey returned to making its case for an AirTrain between LaGuardia Airport and Willets Point. They made their case at Old Astoria Neighborhood Association’s last online meeting. The Federal Aviation Administration is reviewing a...
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De Marco Park Clean-Up on October 11
Incanto Productions is hosting a litter clean-up at De Marco Park on Sunday, October 11, from 1-2:30 pm. The meeting location will be at 21st Ave and Shore Boulevard. NYC Parks will provide the material needed. OANA is proud to support Incanto Productions in keeping our environment clean and...
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The New Rules of Restaurants, With Permanent Outdoor Dining and the Start of Indoor Dining
Every restaurant owner has had six months of difficult decisions. Back in March, many chose to close and remain open only for takeout and delivery. The next hurdle was deciding to reopen last week in preparation for this week’s reintroduction of indoor dining at 25 percent capacity — a...
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Breast Cancer Awareness Month Events by New York-Presbyterian Queens
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. To promote breast cancer information and education, New York-Presbyterian Queens is hosting free virtual events via Zoom throughout the whole month. You can join on Mondays at noon or Wednesdays at 2 pm for breast and prostate cancer information sessions. Links to each...
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BioBus to Create Permanent Site at Astoria Houses
Council Member Costa Constantinides and community leaders joined with BioBus on September 24th to announce the science education non-profit would set up a permanent installation at the NYCHA Astoria Houses. The announcement represents years of partnership between BioBus and the Astoria Houses, where it has focused on connecting young...
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Blessing of Pets Service at St. George’s Episcopal Church
On October 10 at 9 am, St. George’s Episcopal Church at 14-02 27th Ave (at 14th St) is hosting a Blessing of Pets service in honor of the feast of St. Francis. They are excited to begin in-person service this month. However, social distancing and face mask regulations still...
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Calling All Residents to Complete 2020 Census and Vote
With the October 5th deadline to complete the 2020 Census looming, don’t wait until it’s too late to help ensure Queens is fully and accurately counted. Your response to this 10-minute survey will help determine our next 10 years, from representation to resources for our schools, hospitals, infrastructure and...
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Restaurant Owners and Customers Excited that Outdoor Dining is Here to Stay
In Queens and across NYC, many will be able to enjoy outdoor dining for the foreseeable future, after Mayor Bill de Blasio made the decision to keep open restaurants and open streets programs permanently. According to Spectrum News NY1, the announcement was a relief for Katherine Fuchs, the owner...
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Rep. Maloney, Climate Advocate, and Community Leaders Release Climate Change Report
On Saturday, September 26, Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney (NY-12), Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform (COR), stood with climate experts and community leaders in Hunters Point South Park to mark the end of Climate Week NYC. The Congresswoman released a new House Committee on Oversight and Reform...
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New Drive-In Movie Theater, Radial Park, Opens in Queens
New York City has seen a resurgence in drive-in and outdoor movies during these socially distanced times. The latest drive-in, Radial Park, will be located at Hallets Point Play, a 50,000 square foot open-air cultural venue on the Astoria, Queens waterfront. Radial Park will specifically focus on Broadway theater...
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The Noguchi Museum Reopens To The Public
The Noguchi Museum reopened to the general public on Wednesday, September 23rd. Gov. Andrew Cuomo allowed indoor cultural institutions to welcome back visitors as of Aug. 24th, as long as they observe strict capacity limits and require face coverings. Similar to other New York City museums that have reopened,...
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Outdoor Dining is Here to Stay, Mayor Bill de Blasio Announces
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Friday the permanent extension to the city’s Open Restaurant initiative, which sprang up amid restrictions to indoor dining during the COVID-19 outbreak. Now that outdoor dining will be a permanent, yearlong feature of New York City, de Blasio hopes it will help keep...
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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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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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