Astoria Blvd and Hoyt Avenue Closings
We received a reminder from Howie Levine of the MTA that Astoria Blvd station will close for nine months beginning on March 17 at 10pm. While the official closure starts on March 17, the entire Astoria line, including Astoria Blvd, will be closed for station work that weekend beginning on...
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Property tax: Reach out to the Department of Finance
Recently many property owners have received Property Tax Assessments that have greatly increased in the last few years. To those who want more information on how these are determined, plus avenues to have them reevaluated or contested, the Department of Finance has Community Workshops set up. Please click for...
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Aviation Job Fair in Corona on March 7 2019
Aviation career opportunities are expanding in Queens, and this will likely bring jobs in related industries with it. For instance, the Queens Chronicle reports that the new TWA Hotel at JFK Airport has begun hiring, looking to employ as many as 800 people. If you are job-hunting, mark your...
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Astoria Blvd N/W station renovations and closures Q and A
On January 30th, the MTA-NYC Transit presented information to OANA at a meeting at the Family Church in Old Astoria. Whenever we have a presenter who states, when a question is asked, that they will research and return with an answer, we do our best to hold them to...
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21st Street Vision Zero Safety Corridor
The NYC DOT has designated 21st st from 20th ave to 50th avenue as a Vision Zero Site and will focus on additional safety precautions. The DOT says the 4.2 pedestrian deaths per mile from 2012-2016 make this designation an urgent public safety matter. Improvements will include leading pedestrian...
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Pancake Breakfast at St. George’s Church on March 3rd
Historic St. George’s Church will be hosting a Pancake Breakfast on Sunday March 3rd from 11 am to 12.30 pm in the Community Room. $10 donation; children under 6 are free. Call 718-721-5154 for more information and for tickets. Tickets will also be available at the door. St. George’s...
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NYC Retrofit Event in Forest Hills on March 7th
NYC Retrofit Accelerator and Urban Green Council will be organizing a free energy training workshop designed for Queens-based Coop and Condo board members and residents. The event will be on Thursday March 7th in Forest Hills. Location: Commonpoint Queens 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills, NY 11375, from 7 to...
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Open Call for the 2019 ArtPort Residency Program
The Queens Council on the Arts is accepting applications for the next round of the Artport Residency Program! The residency will be based in the rotunda of the Marine Air Terminal (Terminal A). During the 3-month residency period, the artist will set up a public studio to create new...
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First Annual LIC CON
Astoria and LIC residents interested in finding out more about after-school programs, sports, financial planning, adult fitness classes, restaurants and more available in Long Island City won’t want to miss the first annual LIC CON on Saturday March 30th from 10 am to 1 pm. Hosted by P.S./I.S. 78Q...
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Multicultural Celebration Hosted by Central Astoria LDC on February 24
Central Astoria LDC is excited to host another Multi-Cultural Celebration! And what better venue than the most diverse borough in New York City? This free event on Sunday February 24, from 12.30 to 4.30 pm, will celebrate various cultures from around the world in music and dance. It’s a...
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Hallets Point Building 1 Opens
The Durst Organization’s Hallets Point Development on the Astoria Waterfront has announced the opening of Building # 1. There have been numerous delays, political, financing, construction issues. OANA has looked forward to the completion of this project and also the adjoining Astoria Cove project. These projects, which include an...
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Astoria Blvd N/W subway line closure
Astoria Blvd station will close for nine months beginning on March 17 at 10pm. While the official closure starts on March 17, the entire Astoria line, including Astoria Blvd, will be closed for station work that weekend beginning on March 16 at 3:45am, as previously emailed. As outlined The...
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Shuttle Buses Replace the N and W trains for the Next Two Weekends
There will be no N/W service between Queensboro Plaza and Ditmars Blvd this weekend, February 16-17, and next weekend, February 23-24, for station improvements. Important alert: during these weekends the traffic pattern will change on 31st Street between 31st Ave and 34th Ave to accommodate track replacement being performed...
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UP-STAND FREE family-friendly workshop
UP-STAND , an organization that advocates for accessibility for the disabled, seniors, and Moms, will be offering a FREE workshop to help guide you toward becoming even more accessible. The fact is that being more inclusive of pregnant women and families makes businesses significantly more profitable. Please fill out...
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Free LaGuardia Link Q70 buses for Presidents Day Weekend
When it comes to getting out of town for the long weekend, it can feel like a battle just getting on the plane, The Port Authority and the MTA wants to make your escape a little easier by offering free LaGuardia Link Q70 buses from 12:01 a.m. Friday, February...
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Astoria/LIC Ravenswood Rezoning Study
The Old Astoria Neighborhood Association requests that the City of New York authorize and fund the NYC Department of City Planning to conduct a rezoning of the area of CD1. This neighborhood has not been rezoned since 1961. Two areas of CD1 have been rezoned: Astoria North of Broadway,...
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Postpone Your Other Plans and Go See The Other Place
The Headwall Theatre Company’s production of The Other Place by Sharr White had its premiere this past weekend, and if you weren’t there, you missed an amazing performance. The play opens with Juliana Smithton checking into a luxury hotel in St Thomas, where she is delivering a presentation on the virtues...
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Accessibility and Luxury Housing
OANA Board Member Brett Harris is featured in today’s NY Times article. Accessibility, whether in our Transit System, housing, and any other public and private space that those with disabilities, seniors, or mothers with young children especially in strollers may encounter is a number one priority of OANA and...
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Property sale n 4th street in Hallets Peninsula
Lee & Associates NYC announced on Thursday that they facilitated the sale of a property at 26-24 & 26-26 Fourth St., that sits in the Hallets Cove in Astoria. It was sold for $11.5 million to Bruman Realty. The property consists of two lots totaling 25,473 square feet of buildings, with...
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Job Opportunities at Socrates Sculpture Park
Socrates Sculpture Park is currently accepting applications for the position of Director of Grounds & Operations and for Teaching Artists for the 2019 season. The Park is committed to building a culturally diverse community and strongly encourages applications from candidates from underrepresented communities. A cultural gem in Astoria, Socrates...
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2nd Annual NYC Free Tax Prep-A-Thon
NYC Department of Consumer Affairs announces the 2nd Annual NYC Free Tax Prep-A-Thon, an all day long FREE Tax Filing marathon on Saturday, February 9th. Share with your friends and networks, and please help us spread the word! Families and individuals who earned $54,000 or less in 2018can get their taxes done for FREE! FREE one-on-one...
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Senior Property Tax
Nothing destroys a community more than when a senior citizens, who has lived in a neighborhood their whole life, are forced out because of inability to pay expenses. The history and wisdom they carry makes sure the uniqueness of each neighborhood survives and is carried forward. And, after so...
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Jobs with the US Census
The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting in Queens and across the country to fill temporary paid jobs as we inch closer to the 2020 census. To be eligible for a 2020 census job, candidates must be at least 18 years old, have a valid Social Security number, be a...
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Subway Tragedy Underscores Need for Elevators
Tragically, the mother of a one-year-old child was killed this week after she fell down the stairs and onto the platform. in a Manhattan subway station while carrying a stroller as well as her baby daughter. The 22-year-old victim, Malaysia Goodson, 22, had her accident at the 53rd St. and...
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New Theater Company Brings a Can’t Miss Play to Astoria in February
Welcome to a new addition to Astoria’s burgeoning arts and cultural scene: the Headwall Theater company. The Headwall Theatre Company is a group of passionate artists that are dedicated to providing the Queens community with affordable high-quality theatre by creating a home for actors to develop the courage to...
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Community Board Applications Are Open
Interested in local affairs and issues that affect your neighbors? Do you often say, “Something should be done about that!”? Why not apply to join your local community board? Queens Borough President Melinda Katz is accepting applications for new members of Queens community boards. These are volunteer positions for...
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Paid Summer Internships with the Port Authority
Do you have family members or friends looking for a summer internship opportunity that will look great on their resumes? The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is offering 12-week paid internships that will give graduate and undergraduate students the chance to work with knowledgeable and experienced...
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Mulchfest in Astoria Park, January 12 and 13
This weekend, Saturday January 12 and Sunday January 13, Astoria residents can bring their holiday trees and wreaths to Astoria Park to be chipped and turned into mulch that will help protect city trees. And you can take home a bag of fragrant mulch to use in gardens or...
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Foam Ban Starts January 1 2019
An important alert for business owners in Astoria: Starting January 1, 2019, a ban on foam comes into effect. New York City stores and food-service businesses can no longer offer, sell or possess single-use foam food containers such as foam takeout clamshells, cups, plates, bowls and trays. Additionally, NYC...
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OANA President Richard Khuzami to serve as an Officer of EMBCA
OANA President Richard Khuzami has been asked to sit as an Officer of EMBCA. He is honored to serve this great Cultural and Business Association. Following is their mission: The East Mediterranean Business Cultural Alliance (EMBCA, Inc.) was established in New York by professionals and scholars, from various backgrounds...
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Rainey Park Report Released by Green Shores NYC
Local non-profit Green Shores NYC this month released a comprehensive report on its 2018 Rainey Park Community Visioning project. Although a much-loved recreation space, Rainey Park has neither the amenities nor the programming that distinguish its neighbors on the East River waterfront, Queensbridge Park and Astoria Park. Through a...
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Funding for the Queens Library Astoria Branch
District 22 Council Member Costa Constantinides joined with Queens Library President and CEO Dennis Walcott earlier this month to announce funding in the Fiscal Year 2019 budget that will re-envision the Astoria branch of the library as a 21st-century learning facility for Western Queens. Costa, in partnership with NYC...
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NYC Ferry Winter Schedule in Effect Monday, December 31
The NYC Ferry has established new winter schedules starting 12/31/18. Following is the link to view the schedule. The Ferry is heated inside the cabin, so it is still a viable option for NYC Commuters even in the dead of winter.
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OANA Appointed to Amazon Community Advisory Committee
We at the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association (OANA) are pleased to have been appointed to the Amazon Community Advisory Committee. We look forward to the opportunity to have input how the Amazon HQ2 is implemented, especially emphasizing sustaining and improving our quality of life in LIC/Astoria. For further information...
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3 Hiring Events this Week for Jobs at LaGuardia Airport
Job fairs for the new LaGuardia Airport. Take advantage of this great opportunity. Walk-Ins Welcome HMSHost will be conducting on the spot interviews for Baristas, Cooks, Crewmembers, Servers, Wait Staff, Bartenders, Shift Supervisors, Restaurant Managers for our brand-new locations at the new LaGuardia terminal within the LaGuardia Airport. Details:...
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Flux Factory Accessibility Fellowship
Attention artists! Monday December 17 at 11.59 pm is the deadline to apply for the inaugural Flux Factory Accessibility Fellowship. This fellowship, which consists of a subsidized two month residency and artwork commission opportunity to one disabled artist during the Spring of 2019, is being offered by Flux Factory...
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Emergency Snow Workers Needed
Registration is now open for people interested in working as an emergency snow laborer for the upcoming snow season. Snow laborers are per-diem workers who shovel snow and clear ice from bus stops, crosswalks, fire hydrants, and step streets in the City after heavy snowfalls. Those interested in applying...
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OANA Amazon Op-Ed
The Queens Chronicle has published an Op-Ed by Richard Khuzami and the OANA Board speaking of the upcoming Amazon HQ2. We take the view, if all parties act responsibly, this can be a positive for both Queens and Amazon. We also understand that people on either side can sometimes...
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Astoria Blvd Subway Station Stairwell Closures
OANA received the following from the MTA regarding closure for the renovation of the Astoria Blvd subway station on the N/W line “As part of the larger reconstruction of Astoria Blvd station, NYCT will be closing the street stair on Columbus Triangle at the SE corner of Hoyt Ave North...
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NCO Officers December Meeting
The Neighborhood Coordinating Officers of Sector David, 114th Precinct will hold their next “Build the Block” meeting to identify Policing and Public safety Needs of the Community. Sector David is from Astoria Park South to the north, Queens Plaza to the South, 21st St to the east, and Roosevelt...
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Open Calls for Artists’ Proposals at Socrates Sculpture Park
Attention artists! Two Open Call deadlines are coming up at Socrates Sculpture Park in Astoria, Queens Wednesday December 19 is the deadline to submit proposals for The Socrates Annual Fellowship 2019 – an annual residency program that awards fifteen artists the opportunity to produce sculpture and installation for The...
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Luna Park: A Benefit Concert for APAC
On May 16, 1903 at 8.05 pm, more than 250,000 electric lights illuminated the Brooklyn sky when Skip Dundy and Fred Thompson opened Luna Park at Coney Island. it was one of the three original large parks built on Coney Island, the other two being Steeplechase Park and Dreamland....
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Interested in Business Opportunities in the New LaGuardia Airport?
OANA greatly supports the inclusion of Queens Based business at the New LaGuardia, and hope everyone take advantage of the following opportunity. LaGuardia Gateway Partners are pleased to announce their next Competitive Solicitation Process has just opened to find the best retail partners for the new Terminal B at...
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New Renderings, 28-16 21st Street
Falcon Pacific Builders has released a new rendering for a 50 unit rental and retail building located at 28-16 21st Street in Astoria. The announcement was made by Robert Goodman, Chief Operating Officer of Falcon Pacific Builders. “We are thrilled to have begun construction on this new project in...
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Astoria Blvd Station Stair Closure for ADA Elevator
PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT Following is the latest of a series of service changes created by the upcoming renovation of the Astoria Blvd (NW) subway station by the MTA >“As part of the larger reconstruction of Astoria Blvd station, NYCT will be closing the street stair on the NW corner...
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Holiday Tree Lighting in Astoria Park
Please join Central Astoria LDC for their 6th annual Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting on Saturday, December 1st. Join your friends and neighbors on the Great Lawn at Astoria Park from 2- 5 pm for an afternoon filled with music, train rides and fun for all the family! Free...
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Book Swap in Astoria Heights Park
The Friends of Astoria Heights Park are hosting their 3rd Annual Book Swap in the park on Saturday November 10 from 10 am to 1 pm. There will be a box maze for kids (bring a box for your kid to crawl through). Stick around for Story Corner from...
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NYC Ferry Winter Schedule in Effect Monday, November 5
The NYC Ferry has released its fall schedule. Please click here to view the schedule. OANA strongly supports this transformative service. It has brought Old Astoria easy access for both residents and visitors! What do you think of the service, Comments, Compliments, Requests?
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Sanitation Walk Through Old Astoria
Richard Khuzami, president of Old Astoria Neighborhood Association, was privileged to be invited by Councilman Costa Constantinides to accompany him and NYC Sanitation Commissioner Kathryn Garcia on a tour of the streets of Old Astoria. This is the result of a 5 year campaign of OANA to reduce the...
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Astoria Park Parking Lot “NO OVERNIGHT PARKING”
URGENT MESSAGE: We have been notified by the Parks Department that starting Friday Night, October 26th, No Parking will be allowed overnight in the Astoria Park Parking Lot at Hoyt Ave and 19th st Any vehicles parked between the hours of 10 PM and 6 AM will be subject...
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Making Business More Accessible
UP-STAND is launching a Community Ramp Project to ease the restraints set up by single-step store entrances here in Astoria. These colorful ramps will be FREE to businesses, built by volunteer high school students, and make Astoria more accessible for our neighbors. Find out more about how to get involved...
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Old Astoria Voting: Not good
The Gothamist has created a program that lets you know how many in your neighborhood voted in 2014. Old Astoria was below the city average. We need to do better. OANA received many complaints especially about Quality of Life issues, and we do our best to help address them....
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The 2018 DSNY Leaf Collection Program
The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) conducts special collections of leaves. The schedule for setting out leaves for fall collection in Old Astoria will be after 4 p.m. on two Saturdays, November 24 and December 8. There are specific guidelines residents need to follow in order to have their leaves...
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Halloween Celebration in Astoria Park
From 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday Oct 21st, the Central Astoria Local Development corp will host their third annual “Batty over Halloween” celebration. Children performances, Pumpkin Crafts, Scavenger Hunts, Balloon Twisting, Face Painting and more… Astoria Park Great Lawn Please join them in this wonderful community event!!!
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New Affordable Housing Coming to Astoria
A recent City Council Town Hall meeting at PS 171 in Astoria was well attended, and good news was announced: Councilman Costa Constantinides and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson told the audience that a new affordable housing development aimed at seniors will be created in Astoria. “This is a...
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New Development on 31st Avenue and 11th st
A nine-story residential building will be built in Old Astoria, at 11-37 31st Avenue, between Vernon Boulevard and 12th Street. 91 feet tall when complete it will include 168 units on 110,450 sq ft. The project will be a ground-up development and will replace an extant two-story structure on...
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Astoria Blvd Subway Renovation Bus Stop Changes
As everyone knows, the Astoria Blvd station on the N/W line is starting renovation soon. In preparation for this, the MTA has announced the following: Temporary Bus Stop Changes Due to construction at Astoria Boulevard station on the N/W lines, MTA NYCT will be making the following temporary bus...
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NYC Charter Revision
This November’s ballot will include referendums on changes to the New York City Charter. These changes are designed to boost civic engagement and reform the city’s local campaign finance system and community boards. The Charter Revision Commission, initiated by Mayor Bill DiBlasio, approved three proposals that will appear on...
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City Council Town Hall in Astoria
Come get an update on local government when District 22 City Council Member Costa Constantinides and Speaker Corey Johnson host a Town Hall at P.S. 171, Peter G. Van Alst, 14-14 29th Avenue on Thursday, October 4. The event starts at 6.30 pm, doors open at 6 pm. Topics...
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Events at St. George’s Episcopal Church, Astoria
On Saturday October 6, Historic St. George’s Episcopal Church will hold a Blessing of Pets ceremony in honor of the Feast of St. Francis. The event will be held on the lawn, weather permitting. Owners of all faiths are welcome to bring their animals. Free dog and cat treats...
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Property Tax Reform Public Hearing in Queens
OANA has received the following from the Office of the Mayor of NY and the Speaker of the City Council. Mayor Bill de Blasio and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson have established an advisory commission to develop recommendations to make the City’s property tax system simpler, clearer, and fairer,...
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Mount Sinai Queens Wellness Events
Thinking about what you can do to improve your and your family’s health? Mount Sinai Queens has you covered! On Thursday, September 20 at 4:00pm, pediatrician Dr. Rachel Brozinsky will discuss recommended exams, healthy eating, and more at a Back to School in Good Health event . Have your questions answered...
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Street Cleaning Event
Old Astoria Neighborhood Association (OANA), the Family Church, Astoria Houses Residents Association, Councilman Costa Constantanides, Borough President Melinda Katz, State Senator Michael Gianaris, and Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas are joining forces to try and clean up our neighborhood!!!!!! Nothing reflects the quality of a neighborhood more than cleanliness! “I’m excited...
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Astoria Ferry Service, One Year On
It’s been a year since Astoria got its own ferry service, and it’s safe to say it remains highly popular. (If you missed this video of the first day of ferry service, it’s worth watching! A ferry ride offers a quick, picturesque and relaxing commute into other boroughs for...
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Cosmos FM interview with OANA President Richard Khuzami
Old Astoria Neighborhood Association President Richard Khuzami was recently the subject of an hour -long interview on Cosmos FM, the Greek Radio Station (NYC: 91.5 FM). The hour was sponsored by the Eastern Mediterranean Business Culture Alliance (EMBCA), and was hosted by Louis Katsos. Following is the link to...
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District 22 Participatory Budgeting Call for Proposals
Do you have a vision for a capital improvement project in District 22? Is there a playground, library, school or street in our neighborhood you know of that needs a little TLC? Participatory Budgeting could make your great idea happen! In April 2018 District 22 Council Member Costa Constantinides...
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Elevators Will Go Up at Astoria Blvd Station
One of several nice features of living in Astoria is the quick commute into Manhattan and Brooklyn via the R, N and W train lines. But for many—parents with baby carriages, tourists wielding suitcases and people using mobility assistive devices such as walkers or crutches—access to the N/W line...
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Cosmos FM Radio Interview
On Wednesday August 8, Richard Khuzami, the President/founder of the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association, and the owner/founder of Dahdoo Productions, will be interviewed on Ilias S. Katsos’s East Mediterranean Business & Culture program on COSMOS FM at 7 to 8 P.M. (91.5 FM in New York, and on the internet cosmosfm.org)....
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Welcome to the New Noguchi Museum Director
Astoria groups, local officials and arts-minded community members gathered last week at the Noguchi Museum, in a courtyard housing magnificent examples of the work of the Japanese sculptor who located his studio in our neighborhood. Brett Littman, formerly Executive Director of The Drawing Center, succeeds Jenny Dixon, who led...
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NYC Ferry Update
Because of greater than expected consumer demand, NYC had purchased new high capacity ferrys for NYC Ferry. This will help alleviate some of the service disruptions caused by the over demand for certain routes at certain times. Six ferries with a capacity of 350 (Current vessels carry approx 170)...
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Historical Map of the Astoria Waterfront
A map of the Astoria waterfront from 1876 was donated to OANA by Firefighter Al Soto and Engine 262 on 21st St. We greatly appreciate their contribution. It is an interesting map, showing advertising at that time, plus name changes on the local streets. What is interesting is the...
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Free, Confidential Legal Advise
Old Astoria Neighborhood Association is happy to support BP Melinda Katz and the Legal Aid Society in providing opportunities to all residents in Queens free confidential advise! A society where the playing field is equal for all citizens is a healthy society. From the BP Office: “Borough President Melinda...
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Laguardia overpass completed
As the construction at LaGuardia advances, we are now starting to see the vision taking shape. It is indeed exciting to see what is coming, but it certainly has been a headache dealing the congestion both in and around the Airport caused by construction. However, as each step nears...
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National Night Out Against Crime
This August 7th, the National Night Out Against Crime with be celebrated in 2 locations in Old Astoria. Astoria Park, on the Great Lawn by the Hells Gate Bridge. Sponsored by the NYPD 114th Precinct, , 14th Precinct Community Affairs, 114th Precinct Auxiliary Police, 114th Community Council, 114th Civ-op...
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Aviation Job Fair
Are you job-hunting? Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, and the Council for Airport Opportunity are sponsoring an Aviation Job Fair at the Helen Marshall Cultural Center, Queens Borough Hall, 120-55 Queens Blvd, Kew Gardens, on Thursday August 23rd from 10 am to 2 pm. Meet with companies who are...
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Free Book Bag Give-away
It may be hot and sunny out there, but back to school season is just around the calendar! St. George’s Episcopal Church wants to help your kids be organized this fall, so they are hosting a Book Bag Giveaway on Saturday, August 11, from 11 am to noon. 14-20...
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World Breastfeeding Week Event
NYS Assemblywoman Aravella Symotas is co-sponsoring an event with UP-STAND to bring attention to World Breastfeeding Week and urge passage of her bill — the Family Accommodations in Entertainment Act. The latch-on event – Sustaining Breastfeeding Together– will be on Wednesday, August 1 at 9am to 10am at Columbus...
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Update on LaGuardia Airport Construction
Everything is moving along well at LaGuardia Airport. As we ride down the Grand Central, we actually see the form taking shape, and it is an exciting transformation from a tired old airport to the birthing of what looks like a vibrant addition to our community. The LaGuardia Gateway...
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Development recap: Old Astoria
The following developments are in the pipeline for the Old Astoria and surrounding Neighborhood! All of these are all As of Right. This means they do not require a zoning change. They are building within the existing zoning requirements. Because of this, they are not required to provide Affordable...
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Rain Barrel Giveaway at Chappetto Square
District 22 Council Member Costa Constantinides is partnering with Senator Michael Gianaris and Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas to host a rain barrel giveaway at Chappetto Square (Hoyt Avenue and 23rd Street) on Saturday, July 28th, starting at 10 am. To RSVP, email mcorbett@council.nyc.gov by Monday, July 23rd. Reserved barrels will...
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Queens Midtown and Brooklyn Battery Tunnels
Gov. Cuomo address on Queens Midtown and Brooklyn Battery Tunnel reconstruction Hersh Parekh, who made a wonderful presentation at last January’s OANA Monthly meeting, has asked that we forward the following to our supporters: “Please join Governor Cuomo for an announcement to mark a major milestone in the post-Sandy...
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Mount Sinai Queens Events In July
When it comes to your health, Mount Sinai Queens believes that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! So they have the community covered with a wide range of health events in July. Whether it’s vein and vascular screening, yoga, information sessions about weight loss surgery...
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Friends of Whitey Ford Field Family Day July 15th
Friends of Whitey Ford Field is holding a family day July 15th between 10 am and 6 PM at the corner of 26th Avenue and 2nd Street on Halletts Peninsula in Astoria. They would like to find volunteers to help paint the workout and children’s play areas by the...
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Pedal for Parks On July 21
The Friends of Astoria Heights Park are partnering with Community Board 1, the 114th Precinct and Make Queens Safer in a Pedal for Parks event on Saturday July 21. This family-friendly bike ride to neighborhood parks will start at 9.45 am at Astoria Heights Playground (45th St and 30th...
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General Slocum Sinking
Second worse disaster in NYC History Our Astoria Shore was witness to the worst maritime, and second worse overall disaster in NYC History: The sinking of the General Slocum Ferry in Hellsgate! In an in depth article posted in 6sqft.com by Andrew Berman of the Greenwich Village Society for...
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Fireworks in Astoria Park
This years Fireworks in Astoria Park will take place on Thursday, June 28th at 7:30 PM The event will feature a special performance by the Patriot Brass Ensemble, followed by a spectacular Gucci fireworks display over the waterfront. This event has traditionally brought all Astorians together in what is...
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Environmentally Friendly Ferry
The next step in the growth of our Ferry System: Environmentally Friendly Vessels!!!! Following is a study to address the pollution issues deriving from our current Ferry System! Here is the story of European Union-funded E-ferry offering a clean alternative to polluting diesel powerplants that power our current Ferry...
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Youth Fun Day at St. George’s Episcopal Church, June 16
On Saturday June 16, Historic St. George’s Episcopal Church is hosting a Youth Fun Day from 11.30 am to 3 pm. This fabulous free event is for kids ages 4 to 14—there will be arts and crafts, games and refreshments. Drop in at any time! Supported by a grant...
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FDNY 4th Annual Open House
This is an event our community won’t want to miss! On Saturday, June 16th, and Sunday, June 17th, the FDNY will host its 4th annual citywide Open House program. More than 200 firehouses and EMS Stations will open their doors to the public from 11 am to 1 pm...
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A Beach on the Astoria Waterfront
Trying to make the best of a bad situation, the Durst Organization has announced plans to create a temporary Cultural Center and Beach Area on the site of the stalled Hallets Point project. There will be no access to the water on the “Beach”. The site will be at...
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Public Art in Marine Air Terminal
We previously posted a request for artists in Queens to apply for a residency program in the Marine Terminal at LaGuardia Airport. The positions we awarded, and have been operating since May 2. We thought we would post an article by the NY Times about this project! Landing Pages,...
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Astoria Park Carnival June 6-10,2018
Central Astoria Local Development Coalition is pleased to announce this year’s Astoria Park Carnival in the Parking lot area of Astoria Park. This has evolved in to tradition our neighborhood looks forward to every year. Enjoy Rides, Games, Food, it’s Fun for the whole family! at The Astoria Park...
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Help Paint a Mural at the Steinway Playground
**UPDATE** Due to poor weather conditions, the event has been cancelled on Monday and delayed until Tuesday per Brittany Baldwin. The New York City Parks Department is putting in a mural at Steinway Playground by Brittany Baldwin, a local Queens artist. Brittany wanted to offer a day for community...
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More action on Residential Parking Permits
Councilman Francisco Moya (D_Jackson Heights) introduced a pair of parking-related bills earlier this month, with the first seeking to create a residential permit system in East Elmhurst —This seems to be related to a similar position from State Senator Jorge Peralto we have supported in the past. The Old...
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Developer Sam Chang’s New 13-story Hotel in Long Island City
A new 13-story hotel at 38-39 9th Street, in Long Island City, Queens is being constructed. Hotel Developer Sam Chang will be responsible. The hotel will be seven blocks away from the 21st Street-Queensbridge subway station, serviced by the F trains and the first stop in Queens. This will...
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New 3 story residential bldg. 12-19 31st Dr.
Permits have been filed for a three-story residential building at 12-19 31st Drive, in Astoria, Queens. The site is close to the Astoria NYC Ferry pier and is 13 blocks away from the Broadway subway station, serviced by the N and W trains. This will be a 11,440 square...
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New NYC Ferry Summer 2018 Schedule
The NYC Ferry has just released its new schedule for summer 2018. For the NYC waterfront’s premier public transit alternative summer schedule, this is effective May 21, 2018. Remember, with fares equal to those on a MetroCard, and a pleasant relaxing ride on the East River, nothing compares to the NYC...
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Fathers Day in Astoria Park
June 17th, 2018 11 am to 3 pm The Old Astoria Neighborhood Assn is pleased to partner with the Astoria Park Alliance to sponsor a Fathers Day event in Astoria Park. What can be appropriate for Fathers Day than an afternoon with Live Music, Food, and Classic cars!!! Pre...
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Variety Boys & Girls Club Proposed Renovation
An ambitious project which will allow for the expansion and renovation of the Variety Boys and Girls Club on 21st st in Astoria has been proposed. New renderings have been unveiled for the 14-story mixed-use building proposed at 21-12 30th Road, in Queens. Please note that this is just...
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Socrates Sculpture Park 2018 schedule
One of the Old Astoria Neighborhoods greatest assets is the Socrates Sculpture Park. With an attendance of over 100,000 annually, New Yorkers of all ages are exposed to a great program of the arts and performance. All Free Of Charge. And with the advent of the Astoria stop on...
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Astoria Park Tennis Courts Permits Available
It’s a good time to remember that now’s the best time to get a permit to play on the city’s public tennis courts. The tennis season lasts from April to the Sunday before Thanksgiving, so picking up one now will get you the best bang for your buck. And if,...
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New Building at 21st st and 29th ave
Permits have been filed for a seven-story mixed-use building at 28-06 21st Street, in Astoria, Queens. The 74-foot tall structure will yield 11,360 square feet, with 9,750 square feet dedicated to residential use, and 1,610 square feet for commercial use. 11 apartments will be created, averaging 886 square feet...
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MTA Funding for Accessible Transit projects
The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has amended it’s capital plan to allocate at least $600 million for accessibility projects. They state this will “significantly increases the agency’s investment” in Americans With Disabilities Act accessibility projects. $300 million is allocated for station improvements, $200 million for enhancements such as elevators and...
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Durst and the Astoria Waterfront
Following is an interesting interview with Helen Rose Durst on their investments in Queens. We at OANA want to acknowledge that without Durst’s commitment to the revitalization of our waterfront, the prospects of improved quality of life in our neighborhood would be much more difficult. Rendering of the first...
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Family Fun At Rainey Park
Central Astoria LDC invites you to an afternoon of Family Fun at Rainey Park on Sunday June 3rd from 12 noon to 3 pm. There will be face painting, cotton candy, balloon art, crafts, and an Interactive children’s performance. And of course beautiful views of our waterfront. Hope to...
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Together In Teal Event On Roosevelt Island
Together in Teal! On Saturday May 19, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition is hosting the first New York City Run/Walk to break the silence on Ovarian Cancer. The event takes place on Firefighter’s Field, 405-425 Main Street, Roosevelt Island. Now that spring is here, you can also walk around...
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Street Cleaning in Old Astoria
We at Old Astoria Neighborhood Assn. (OANA) read with interest the op-ed in today’s Crains warning us to avoid street cleaning and Alternate Side parking (ASP). We greatly appreciate the fact that this helps keep this issue in the Public Eye. However, as far as being told by Crains...
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Street Cleaning and Parking; Short supply in Old Astoria
As a follow up to OANA’s press release asking for street cleaning once a week per side in Old Astoria, the Queens Courier has published an article on this. Even with petitions from local residents asking for twice a week cleaning, OANA have so far been unsuccessful in getting...
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Health and Wellness Block party
Please join our friends at Goodwill for their Health and Wellness Block Party outside their location at 4-21 27th Avenue, on Saturday May 12 from 10 am to 3 pm. There will be food, music, art, wellness center giveaways, blood pressure checks and yoga. Get hugs from a life-size...
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NYC Organics Recycling is Coming to Astoria
Please join the Greater Astoria Historical Society on Monday May 7 at 7 pm for a presentation about NYC Organics Recycling, coming soon to our neighborhood. Whether you are a homeowner, renter or building manager, you will need to know about this important new city program. Presenter Mara Moss...
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Speed Bumps Approved
As many may be aware, OANA has been advocating for speed bumps on 18th st for many years. During our February meeting, we invited the NYC DOT’s Samantha Dolgoff to participate. Because of the tremendous participation by neighbors requesting that these speed bumps be installed, and the support of...
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Movement on Residential Parking Permits
Some members of the NYC Council are embracing the idea of Residential Parking Permits. OANA has advocated for this for years, and we are heartened to see this idea take one more step to realization. Our last movement was the endorsement of this idea by NYS Senator Jorge Peralto...
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International Cultural Fest 2018
Please join Central Astoria LDC for International Cultural Fest 2018 on Sunday, April 29th from 12 noon to 5 pm at the street fair on Steinway Street, between Broadway and 31st Avenue. Enjoy music and dance from Bangladesh, Korea, Mexico, West Africa and other cultures. Let’s all come together...
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Target opens in Astoria
A small-format Target will open in the Ditmars-Steinway section of Astoria in 2022. The location will be Target’s third small-format store in Queens with an existing location in Forest Hills and one planned for Jackson Heights, which will open in 2019. This 47,000-square-foot location will employ 100 people. Offered...
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Earth Day Festivities in Astoria Park
On Sunday April 22nd, from 1 to 4 pm, Astoria Park Alliance is hosting a nature-themed Earth Day event on the main lawn of Astoria Park to kick off the 2018 season of events. This free and family-friendly event will feature live music, dance performances, environmental education and sustainability...
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Jane’s Walk in Old Astoria, Saturday May 5
Once a year, “Jane’s Walks” take place in cities across the country. Jane’s Walks are free tours/walking conversations inspired by the journalist and urban planning pioneer Jane Jacobs. Jane’s Walks encourage people to share stories about their neighborhoods, discover unseen aspects of their communities, and use walking as a...
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Open House at Historic St. George’s Church
Historic St. George’s Church will be hosting an Open House on Saturday. May 5, from 11 am to 5pm. There will be tours of the church and cemetery. Come find out more about the history of the church whose connection with John Jacob Astor gave our neighborhood its name!...
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Astoria Blvd Station Renovations
The MTA will add four elevators to the Astoria Boulevard station. The MTA has announced renovation of the Astoria Blvd stop on the N line in Astoria. This 29 month renovation will include 9 months of full closure and also include traffic diversions, including some closures of the Hoyt...
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Street Cleaning and Alternate Side Parking Old Astoria
OANA has taken a position regarding street cleaning and Alternate side Parking in Old Astoria. While we support using zoning as a tool to determine street sweeping standards, we understand there are other solutions that may alleviate an untenable situation, such as eliminating in its entirety the cleaning of...
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The MTA announced that the N Train renovations stay “On Track”
While the MTA has announced they are not starting any new renovations for subway stations because they have run out of funding, the planned renovations on the Astoria Stations on the “N” line will continue. The MTA also announced they will use the 90 million in funding left over...
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A New Field House for Queensbridge Park
Good news for Queensbridge Park—the dilapidated old Field House, closed for many years, is to be demolished and ground has been broken for a new, energy-efficient park house that will serve as a community center and will also house offices for Parks staff. The construction will cost $6.25 million...
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QCA open call for Art Residency at LaGuardia Airport
The Queens Council on the Arts has an open call for a new art residency at LaGuardia Airport’s Marine Terminal A, which will come to a close next Thursday. QCA is collaborating with the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey for the ArtPort Residency, which will select...
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Tide Mill Conference
On Saturday April 7 2018, the Tide Mill Institute and Greater Astoria Historical Society present a conference particularly interesting for residents of our waterfront community: A City of Tides: The Past and Future of New York. The event is from 8.30 am to 4 pm. The Program: The ABC’s...
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NYC Ferry Jobs
Last August saw the opening of the new ferry service to and from Astoria. With spring and summer bringing back full ferry service, NYC Ferry is hiring! Check out job openings that range from deckhand and mechanic to concessions and crowd control agents. Most positions start in spring or summer. The desired...
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Durst Clock Tower
The first renderings of Queensboro Plaza skyscraper developed by the Durst Organization at 29-37 41st Avenue in Queens have been revealed. The 751-foot-tall building will dwarf the clock tower at its base. The renderings show a massive concave tower, sheathed in a glass curtain wall, set back from the rear of the 90-year-old landmarked Clock...
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MTA Sued over Station Accessibility
MTA Sued over Station Accessibility by US Attorney General for the Southern District of New York. As many of our members and friends know, OANA has taken a strong position on the need to improve accessibility and ADA compliance in the stations on the N/W train line. We were...
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Halletts Point Building One
The Durst Organization has provided new renderings of Building One at 10 Halletts Point of the Halletts Point Development on the Astoria waterfront. This building has 405 units, 81 of which are “Affordable”, with rents at 60% of AMI. They also announced the launch of the lottery for the...
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NYC Free Tax Preparation
Many New Yorkers qualify to file their taxes for free. The NYC Free Tax Prep program includes more than 200 Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)/Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) and AARP Tax-Aide sites citywide, as well as online self-preparation at nyc.gov/taxprep. New Yorkers can take advantage of Free Tax...
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Seasonal, Part Time Positions- Aramark Citi Field
Aramark @ Citi Field is looking for energetic and self-motivated candidates with a proven track record in providing exemplary guest service in a fast paced and diverse environment, working as part of a team, to assist in the Food Service and Retail Operations at Citi Field. The ideal candidate...
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RENOVATION OF ASTORIA POOL TO COST 50 MILLION
The cost to overhaul the Astoria Pool will be in excess of $50 million, according to Council member Costa Constantinides. Constantinides, who plans to fix the rundown pool wants the pool basin, the bleachers and deck surrounding the pool to be renovated. In addition, he wants the unkempt bathrooms...
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Noguchi Museum March News
Noguchi Museum is a long-standing cultural institution in Old Astoria. We strongly support their programming, and would like to take this opportunity to forward to everyone their March News and events. They are a strong anchor for OANA’s efforts to create a Waterfront Arts District. Please support their fine...
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NYS State wants NYC to use design-build
Governor’s Cuomos office has advised the City of NY to try and institute Design /Build on its Capital Projects. This has proven to be a cost effective time saving process as proven by recent State Capital project, especially the construction of the new Tappen Zee (Mario Cuomo) and Kosciuszko...
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NYPD to crack down on ‘block-the-box’
NYPD to crack down on ‘block-the-box’ , New Commercial Loading restrictions in Jackson Heights BE AWARE Drivers who “block the box” at intersections could get a ticket for holding up traffic. Cops will be handing out tickets to drivers who pull too far into the crosswalk at 50 busy...
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NYPD Sector David Safety Summit
An important meeting will take place on March 22, 2018 at 6 PM Queens Library 37-44 21st st, Long Island City NY NYPD Precinct 114 Neighborhood Coordinating Officers Joe Esposito and Keith Matthes are hosting an meeting to discuss neighborhood safety and quality of life issues in sector David....
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More developments coming to Old Astoria
A six-story building is coming to 8-29 Astoria Boulevard, mid-block between 8th and 12th streets. Astoria Houses public housing project begins at the end of the block, and Two Coves Community Garden is across the street. The project includes 50 apartments, plus retail and medical offices. of (3,700 square...
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Increase Parking around Film Shoots
Astoria/LIC has historically been the center of movie and TC+V Film shoots in NYC. Studios such as Kauffman Astoria and Silvercup had lead to a renaissance in this industry in NYC. greatly adding to both the economic health and visibility of our neighborhood. As residents, however, we often have...
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New Lower East Side Ferry Stop
Mayor DiBlasio announces a new Ferry stop in the Lower East Side in Manhattan. While this stop is not on the Astoria Line, you can transfer free of charge in LIC to the line servicing the lower east side. The Lower East Side Route will serve nearly one million...
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New Generators for Astoria Houses
FEMA Funds secured for rehabilitation of NYCHA facilities because of Super Storm Sandy are funding new Surge protecting Generators to be installed on the roofs of some flood prone Astoria House buildings. These should help mitigate against damage and power outages from any future storms. The December 2015 FEMA...
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Mid Block Cross walks on Steinway St
Councilman Costa Constantinides and the DOT announced on Feb. 23 that three new mid-block crosswalks and traffic lights would be installed along the busy thoroughfare. Constantinides first announced his plan to add traffic mitigation measures on Steinway Street in his State of the District speech last year. Steinway Street, which...
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Central Astoria LDC’s Multicultural Celebration
Many ethnic cultures contribute to the diversity for which our community is justly famous, and now Central Astoria LDC is bringing us a fabulous Multicultural Celebration on Sunday March 18th from 12.30 to 5 pm. Enjoy performances by cultures from around the world The event is hosted by the...
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Halletts Point update
The NY City Council has found that NYCHA was deprived of needed boiler improvements at their Astoria Houses campus. However, the Mayors office disputed this. Again, we at OANA ask that all parties involved put aside their disputes, and come together for the good of our community. We have...
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Google and Goodwill Team up
Goodwill of NY/NJ and Google have teamed up to provide workforce development for those residents looking to enhance their tech skills to increase their chances of meaningful employment. Google.org designated $10M in grants for a workforce development initiative with Goodwill Industries called the Goodwill Digital Career Accelerator – including $300,000...
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Arcadia Bar & Kitchen
Arcadia is a new neighborhood bar coming to Old Astoria in the next couple of weeks. This project has been a year in the making with nothing but love and passion for what we do. Serving up craft cocktails, draft beer and a full kitchen, we are excited to...
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Auto, Pedestrian, and Parking changes – Welling Court Vernon Blvd, Main ave
The NYC Department of Transportation will be presenting their new changes for the Vernon Blvd, Main Ave, 30th Ave. intersections in Old Astoria at the upcoming OANA meeting on Feb 28th at 7 PM at St George Church. At 14th st and 27th ave, Astoria. The proposal includes adding two...
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New Look Coming to the Triborough B playground
The Big Ten Network, in celebration of this year’s Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament at Madison Square Garden, will be refurbishing the surface and basketball hoops of the full court basketball court in Triborough B playground!!! It will also be painted with a large-scale mural by Mark Paul Deren (AKA MADSTEEZ), paying homage to...
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Withdrawal of Hallets Point Funding Probed
The New York City Council is investigating the withdrawal of $43.5 million in financing from the affordable housing project at Hallets Point, that would also have provided money for boiler repairs at the nearby Astoria Houses, in November 2017, shortly after a public dispute between Mayor Bill de Blasio...
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Neptune Diner May Depart
The future of the much-loved Neptune Diner, at the foot of the Astoria Boulevard N/W train station, is in doubt. The Astoria Post reports that the site, 31-05 Astoria Blvd., that houses the diner and two adjacent lots are up for sale. The listing, by Eastern Consolidated, reports that...
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CLIMATE CHANGE: Is Your Home At Risk?
Old Astoria is a waterfront community. Because of this we should all be aware of the potential risks that climate change and rising sea levels provide. A new Google Earth plug-in allows users to explore how rising sea levels would affect their neighborhoods and the tool shows that large...
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Astoria Diving Pool Project
Work has begun on creating a public space on the site of the currently closed Astoria Diving Pool. While the neighborhood has had a vibrant discussion on how to utilize this landmarked space, from renovation as a diving pool, to reconstruction as a Theater, Performance Space, and Ice Rink,...
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NEW DEVELOPMENT BY THE ASTORIA FERRY
Permits have been filed for a seven-story, 29-unit apartment building at 11-16 Main Ave. Currently, the one-story building sits on a block with mostly low-rise industrial buildings, many of which are adorned with art as part of the Welling Court Mural Project. Also, the developer is addresses 2 great neighborhood needs:...
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Halletts Point Building one is nearly completion
After 2 years of construction, Building One (At 10 Halletts Point) of the Durst Organization’s Halletts Point Development is nearing completion. Leasing is set to begin this summer! Also, a much-needed supermarket, Brooklyn Harvest Market, will occupy the first floor. A fitness Center, Recreation Rooms for Kids, and Public...
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NOGUCHI HIRES NEW DIRECTOR
The Noguchi Museum in Long Island City has appointed a new director: Brett Littman, the current director of the Drawing Center. He will take over the job in May, succeeding Jenny Dixon, who retired after 15 years at the helm. The Noguchi Museum is an important component of the...
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OANA President Interviewed by Queens Ledger
The Queens Ledger recently published a profile of Richard Khuzami, President of OANA. The article depicts his family background, love of Astoria and community activism that goes back many years To quote the Queens Ledger, “Khuzami’s latest effort is founding the Old Astoria Neighborhood Association, formed in 2014. The...
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Rally for Better Transit at the Ditmars Boulevard Station
Just when you thought the station renovations on the N/W line couldn’t be any more inconvenient, it’s just been announced that the Ditmars Boulevard station will be under reconstruction from April 2018 through June 2019. Thankfully the station won’t be completely closed, but construction materials will be stored on...
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New NYC Winter Ferry Schedule
It has been an amazing initial year for the New York City Ferry….3 million passengers!!! And new stops are on the way for 2018!! The ferry has been a catalyst in Old Astoria, leading to new development, services, a shot in the arm for our cultural institutions, and a...
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Is Design Build the Answer to NYC Capital project Woes?
Design build is an attempt to streamline the Capital project design and construction process. Currently, the process usually takes a minimum of 2 years just to reach the construction phase. This is because there are 2 separate processes: Design and permit is handled separately from construction. Also 2 separate...
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Councilman Costa Constantinides Has Been Re-appointed
Council Costa Constantinides: The New term!!!! Environmental Protection Committee and Budget Negotiating Team Councilman Costa Constantinides has been re-appointed to Chair of the Council’s newly strengthened Environmental Protection Committee. Making our city greener and more environmentally-friendly will remain his priority. The newly expanded committee now has more members and a widened...
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Approved Design Plans For Whitey Ford Field
Community Board 1 in Astoria/LIC has approved design plans from the NYC Parks Department for the renovation of Whitey Ford Field! This is the culmination of extensive work done by CB1, The Friends of Whitey Ford Field, and The Old Astoria Neighborhood Association to bring this field, named after...
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Van Bramer’s City Council Appointments
The New York City Council the City Council voted on committee assignments and leadership positions for the new term. District 26 Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer continues to serve as the Chair of the Cultural Affairs and Libraries Committee. Jimmy said that “I love this committee and am so...
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Executive Director of BQX Stepped Down
The Friends of the BQX Executive Director, Ya-Ting Liu, stepped down on December 1st. Ya-Ting stepped down just after unveiling the first-ever life-size prototype of the light rail car of the BQX. Ya-Ting was able to accomplish a lot while being the Executive Director. She was able to build...
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Small Business Owners Are Catching A Break With These New Bills
Small businesses in New York State will be getting some relief because of three different bills that have been signed into law. This is all thanks to Assemblymember Aravella Simotas, the assembly member of Astoria, and Governor Andrew Cuomo. Simotas knows how important small businesses are to communities because...
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NYC Free Tax Prep Program
Are you a New Yorker who earned $66,000 or less in 2017? Good news! You may qualify for free tax preparation services. Those services could include free online filing and in-person filing with an IRS certified VITA/TCE volunteer preparer. NYC Free Tax Prep sites are operated by community-based organizations in...
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Community Youth Fun Day Hosted by Saint Georges Church
Looking for something fun for your children to do next weekend? Look no further than the Community Youth Fun Day Hosted by Saint Georges Church at 14-20 27th Avenue (at 14th St) Astoria, NY. The even will be on Saturday, January 13th from 12:30 to 4 PM and is...
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The BQX Timeline May be Shattered
The Brooklyn-Queens Connector (BQX) is a proposed streetcar that would link Brooklyn and Queens along the waterfront of both boroughs. The public-review process for the BQX was supposed to start by the end of 2017. However, the start date has extended into this year. According to The Crain’s report,...
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Deadline for 2018 ArtHotel Residency is January 8
Attention artists! The deadline to apply for the Queens Council on the Arts (QCA) ArtHotel Residency program is Monday January 8th at 5 pm. Emerging artists from all disciplines may apply; you must be 18 or over and must be a Queens resident. The QCA ArtHotel Residency program offers...
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MulchFest in Astoria Park
It’s time to take the Christmas tree down and New York City wants to turn your holiday greenery into mulch. The annual MulchFest event will be held at various locations throughout the city, including Astoria Park, on Saturday January 6 and Sunday January 7 from 10 a.m. to 2...
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Astoria Wins the Curbed Cup 2017
The votes are in—and Astoria is the winner of the 2017 Curbed Cup! Astoria beat out the Manhattan finalist, Yorkville, with an impressive 60% of the vote in the final round. Curbed NY notes that that Astoria surged from its original 10th place seeding, defeating trendy newcomers like Hudson...
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Astoria Heights Park Potluck Brunch and Book Swap
On Saturday January 21st from 11 am to 2 pm, please join the Friends of Astoria Heights Park for their 5th Annual Potluck Brunch and Book Swap. Start your New Year’s resolution to de-clutter by bringing books to swap (in good condition) and bring a dish to share. This...
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Condos In Astoria Mock Storage Units
The residents of the Shore Towers condo building are concerned for their safety after discovering that 5 apartments had been converted to 150 storage cages. This is not only illegal, but it is also threatens the building’s fire safety because there are no smoke detectors or sprinklers within the...
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Curbed NY; New poll to determine NYC’s hot neighborhoods
Curbed Cup NY 2017 is pitting 2 neighborhoods against each other for supremacy in their list of the best neighborhoods of NYC. Astoria, a diverse neighborhood known for its “Village” feel in an urban environment, versus “Yorkville”, home to the new Second Avenue subway. We urge all Astorians and...
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Take 2017 Survey of LIC Businesses and Organizations
The Long Island City Partnership is calling all businesses and organizations located in Long Island City to tell them what they think about the future of the area by filling out an online survey. This will help the partnership update LIC’s data and better inform policy decisions that shape...
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Win one for Friends of Whitey Ford Field
Congratulations to Friends of Whitey Ford Field on winning the “It’s My Park Photo Contest” hosted by the Partnerships for Parks. This comes after the organization entered the contest by submitting a photo of their September 17 Clean Up at the field. They received 548 votes. 40 volunteer park...
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A New Director for a Veteran Performing Arts Center
Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC) has a large presence in the Astoria community. Founded in 2001, it is APAC’s mission to the gift of high quality theater to Astoria, Queens and support its residents. That is why they were happy to announce their new Executive Director, Jesse Machesse. Machesse...
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Awards for Astoria Architectural Developments
The Graffiti House project at 11-07 Welling Court in Astoria was among those honored at the recent Queens Chamber of Commerce Annual Building Awards Gala. Graffiti House received the Interior Design, mixed use, residential/commercial/industrial award and the Best Landscape Design award. The architect is Architects Studio and the builder...
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Pesticide Bill in Queens
A bill mandating NYC parks and playgrounds be wiped down after pesticides are sprayed has passed the City Council. This bill has been sponsored by Councilmember Jimmy Van Bramer of Long Island City/Sunnyside. This bill will require The Department of Parks and Recreation to wipe down the playgrounds 24...
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An End to Larger Truck Traffic on Astoria Boulevard
New York State Assemblymember Aravella Simotas announced that by the end of this year, larger trucks will be permitted to remain on the Brooklyn Queens Expressway (BQE) and will no longer be detoured onto local streets in Astoria. (Note: many people think of the roadway from the RFK Triborough...
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Cornell’s High-Tech Campus on Roosevelt Island
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), an IT services, consulting and business solutions organization, announced on Dec. 4 a $50 million investment in Cornell Tech. The development and investment is to encourage more technology-based learning for students K-12 in New York City. This will be an amazing opportunity for the companies,...
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Tragic Discovery in the East River
The City Medical Examiner’s office is performing an autopsy on the body of a woman discovered floating in the waters of the East River beside Astoria Park on Sunday December 10. The Western Queens Gazette is reporting that the body was that of a dark-haired Asian woman in her...
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