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Royal Collectibles: A Family’s Journey Through the Ages

Mohamed Farghaly on April 19, 2024

Mohamed Farghaly

Capturing a moment of nostalgia and community at Royal Collectibles, where Bob and Diane Lazauskas continue to preserve comic book culture in Forest Hills since the 90s.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Located in the heart of Forest Hills, Royal Collectibles stands as a testament to the enduring love for comic books and collectibles. Founded in the late 90s by a father-son duo, the shop has since evolved into a family affair, now managed by Bob Lazauskas and his wife, Diane Lazauskas.

Situated at 9601 Metropolitan Ave #1, Flushing, NY 11375, Royal Collectibles has become a staple in the local neighborhood offering a treasure trove of comics, collectibles, and nostalgia to community members and visitors alike.

“We’ve just been in the business of buying, selling and trading collectibles, comics and everything else for the past couple of decades,” Diane said.

The inspiration behind opening a local comic book shop stemmed from the monumental event of the “Death of Superman” in the 90s, which ignited a frenzy among collectors and enthusiasts. The “Death of Superman” storyline, which unfolded in the early 1990s, marked a watershed moment in comic book history. It wasn’t just a narrative arc; it was a cultural phenomenon that captivated audiences worldwide. The storyline, which saw the Man of Steel facing off against the seemingly unstoppable creature known as Doomsday, culminated in Superman’s heroic sacrifice to save Metropolis and reverberated far beyond the pages of comic books.

The impact of the “Death of Superman” was felt not only within the comic book community but also in mainstream media. News outlets covered the story, sparking widespread interest and speculation about the fate of the beloved superhero. As collectors scrambled to get their hands on multiple copies of the issue featuring Superman’s demise, a fervor swept through the industry. Comic book shops found themselves inundated with eager fans seeking to own a piece of history.

It was amidst this frenzy that the founders of Royal Collectibles recognized an opportunity. They saw firsthand the passion and enthusiasm of collectors and enthusiasts, and they envisioned a space where fans could come together to celebrate their shared love for comics. Forest Hills, being their hometown, became the natural choice for their venture, solidifying its roots in the community.

Mohamed Farghaly

Explore a treasure trove of comics, collectibles, and nostalgia at Royal Collectibles, where enthusiasts can find a diverse array of offerings to satisfy their passion for pop culture.

At the time, the comic book industry was akin to street vending, with enthusiasts setting up tables to sell comics sporadically. However, recognizing the potential for a thriving business, they collectively decided to establish a permanent storefront, viewing it as a significant venture.

“A lot of stores popped up because everybody was just like, well, there’s money to be made here,” Diane said. “At the time, there were basically like street vendors, setting up tables here and there to sell comics. But then we thought, Alright, this is like big business. Let’s open up a place.”

Over the years, Royal Collectibles has witnessed the flow and decline of different pop culture trends, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of collector’s interests. From comics to Funko Pops and vintage memorabilia, the shop has remained agile, catering to the diverse tastes of its clientele.

“One of my favorite quotes about comic books is ‘comics are the gateway drug to literacy.’ I love introducing kids to the world of comics,” Bob said. “I also wanted to emphasize that I attribute a large part of our success over the years to our amazing customer base and community support. It’s endearing how our customers love to support mom and pop shops which are becoming few and far between these days.”

Despite facing challenges throughout the years like the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced temporary closures and redefined business operations, the Lazauskas family persevered, embracing online sales and virtual events to stay connected with their loyal customers.

Mohamed Farghaly

Discover the crown jewels of Royal Collectibles: prized possessions like the original X-Men #1, showcasing the shop’s commitment to preserving iconic pieces of comic book history.

 

One of the distinguishing features of Royal Collectibles is its commitment to fostering a sense of community. Through hosting local events and showcasing the work of neighborhood artists, the shop has become more than just a place of commerce—it’s a hub for creativity and camaraderie. From welcoming renowned names like Neil Adams to nurturing emerging talents, Royal Collectibles continues to be a beacon of support for the local arts scene.

As the years passed, Royal Collectibles evolved into a hub of activity, hosting a myriad of events aimed at enriching the lives of its patrons. One such event is Free Comic Book Day, an annual celebration that Royal Collectibles has embraced wholeheartedly. On this day, comic book shops across the globe offer free comic books to visitors, encouraging both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to explore the medium. Royal Collectibles goes above and beyond, curating a selection of titles that cater to a wide range of interests and ages. This year it will take place on Saturday, May 4th.

In addition to Free Comic Book Day, Royal Collectibles also hosts the annual Makers Faire—a vibrant showcase of local talent and creativity. This event transforms the shop’s parking lot into a bustling marketplace, where artisans and creators from the community come together to share their work. From handmade crafts to original artwork, the Makers Faire offers something for everyone, fostering a sense of connection and support among local artists and entrepreneurs.

Beyond these marquee events, Royal Collectibles continually seeks out opportunities to engage with its patrons on a deeper level. Whether through artist signings, themed parties, or charity drives, the shop remains dedicated to creating memorable experiences that extend beyond mere transactions. For the Lazauskas family, Royal Collectibles is not just a business—it’s a labor of love, a place where they can share their passion for comics with others and make a positive impact on their community.

Nestled within the vast array of collectibles at Royal Collectibles lies an iconic piece of comic book history—the original X-Men #1. This prized gem, dating back to the Silver Age of comics, holds a special place among collectors for its pivotal role in introducing the world to the mutant superhero team. This is just one of many unique items the local comic book shop has in their inventory.  Priced at $5,500, this relic serves as a tangible link to the early days of Marvel Comics, where Stan Lee and Jack Kirby first envisioned the groundbreaking world of mutants and superheroes.

As Diane Lazauskas reflects on the journey Royal Collectibles has taken, she highlights the joy of witnessing customers rediscover the magic of their childhood favorites and passing on that love to future generations.

“For me, it’s seeing people, grown adults shopping for stuff that they may have enjoyed as a child and like that nostalgia factor,” Diane said.

In addition to its main location, Royal Collectibles expanded its offerings with Royal Sports and Entertainment down the block, catering to sports enthusiasts and gamers alike. The dual presence on the same block underscores the shop’s versatility.

For aspiring entrepreneurs looking to venture into the world of comic book retail, Diane offers sage advice: stay organized, stay attuned to collector’s interests, and embrace the online marketplace to weather any challenges that may arise.

“Now the difficulties in this business is that things come and go in popularity, there’ll be a time where comics are super-hot, and everybody’s coming in, everybody’s opening a pull list, everybody’s here or there,” Diane said. “Back then, half the shop was Beanie Babies.”

As Royal Collectibles continues to evolve with the times, one thing remains constant: its unwavering dedication to preserving the magic of storytelling and the thrill of collecting. In the bustling streets of Forest Hills, this family-owned shop stands as a testament to the enduring power of imagination and community spirit.

Courtesy Royal Collectibles

Owners Mike Giordano and Chuck Marrone share a moment with comic book legend Stan Lee, celebrating the rich history and passion for comics. 

Astoria’s Inaugural Ramadan Night Market Lights Up Steinway Street

Mohamed Farghaly on April 19, 2024

Mohamed Farghaly

Locals and visitors immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Astoria’s Ramadan Night Market, embracing cultural exchange and unity.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Steinway Street was bustling into the early hours of Tuesday morning as Astoria’s Little Egypt celebrated a first-of-its-kind night market in honor of Ramadan. Several blocks in Astoria were closed for the inaugural Ramadan Night Market on April 3, an event that brought together diverse communities to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

The event, centered around food and cultural exchange, took place on Steinway Street between 25th and 28th Avenue starting at 9 p.m. and concluded at 1 a.m., drawing locals and visitors alike to savor the flavors of halal cuisine.

Mohamed Farghaly

The spirit of giving shines bright as attendees support Malikah’s mission of empowerment and community resilience through donations at the night market.

Organized by Malikah, a grassroots organization based in Astoria dedicated to combating gender-based violence and hate crimes through self-defense training and community programming, the night market aimed to empower women while fostering unity within the neighborhood.

“We wanted to create an inclusive space where people could come together, celebrate the diversity of our community, and support a worthy cause,” said Mikail Aljawab, a volunteer with Malikah.

With its four pillars focused on healing, self-defense, organizing, and financial literacy, Malikah sought to leverage the event as a fundraiser to sustain its efforts in supporting women and organizing programs in Queens.

“The event is pretty much just connecting people in the community,” Aljawab said. “These are the last few days of the holy month of Ramadan and we’re trying to unite the community and it’s for a good cause. We’re doing a lot of donations. you could try different foods and you can look at different clothes.”

Mohamed Farghaly

Volunteers from Malikah, a grassroots organization dedicated to empowering women, work tirelessly to ensure the success of Astoria’s first Ramadan Night Market.

Throughout the month of Ramadan, Malikah had been actively engaged in community outreach, distributing free Iftar takeout meals outside its Steinway Street center in collaboration with City Comptroller Brad Lander and Islamic Relief USA. As part of the “Iftar on the Go” initiative, which aimed to provide 8,500 meals across the five boroughs.

As the night market came to a close, it left behind a sense of camaraderie and solidarity among those who gathered to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan and support Malikah’s mission of empowerment and community resilience.

Mohamed Farghaly

The spirit of giving shines bright as attendees support Malikah’s mission of empowerment and community resilience through donations at the night market.

 

Queens and Brooklyn Embrace LockerNYC Expansion

Mohamed Farghaly on April 19, 2024

Courtesy NYC.gov

City officials unveil LockerNYC initiative to combat package theft and transform delivery logistics, promising a safer and more efficient future for New Yorkers.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

In a bid to tackle the rampant issue of package theft and alleviate the burgeoning congestion caused by delivery trucks, city officials have unveiled LockerNYC, a pioneering initiative set to revolutionize the way New Yorkers send and receive packages.

Data reveals that 80 percent of households in New York City receive at least one delivery per week, with 20 percent receiving four or more deliveries. Additionally, each day witnesses 90,000 reported instances of packages being stolen or lost in transit within the city, often exacerbated by the absence of secure areas in many buildings for package deliveries.

Mayor Eric Adams declared the launch of LockerNYC as a pivotal step towards safeguarding residents’ deliveries.

“New Yorkers deserve convenient deliveries without rampant theft and unhealthy pollution. With the LockerNYC pilot, our administration is delivering a creative solution that address all three,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Shared lockers are a proven model that will serve our economy, our health, and our quality of life – and this is just the beginning.”

The LockerNYC program, operating on a one-year pilot basis, offering a solution by installing secure public delivery lockers strategically across the city. These lockers, standing at six-and-a-half feet tall and adorned in green, have the capacity to store up to 25 packages simultaneously and are accessible to multiple delivery carriers, including UPS and DHL.

In Queens and Brooklyn, the LockerNYC initiative has strategically positioned its secure public delivery lockers at key locations to serve the diverse communities of these boroughs. In Sunnyside, Queens, residents can access the lockers conveniently situated at 47-01 49th Street, outside the Cosmopolitan Houses apartments, providing a secure and accessible option for package deliveries. Meanwhile, in Brooklyn, multiple neighborhoods benefit from locker installations. In Bedford-Stuyvesant, residents can utilize the lockers outside the Ideal Food Basket grocery store at 830 Lafayette Avenue. In Canarsie, lockers are available at 1380 Rockaway Parkway, offering a reliable solution for package storage. Similarly, in East Flatbush, lockers stand at 1086 Brooklyn Avenue, also located outside an Ideal Food Basket grocery store. Additionally, in Prospect Lefferts Gardens, lockers are conveniently positioned at 2036 Bedford Avenue, enhancing the safety and convenience of package deliveries for local residents.

Plans are underway for the expansion of LockerNYC with additional locations slated to open in Queens and Brooklyn at later dates.

“New Yorkers deserve to receive their deliveries safely, efficiently and sustainably,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “As New Yorkers continue to enjoy e-commerce, we are using every tool in our toolbox to reduce the number of trucks on our streets and mitigate congestion at the curb.”

The initiative, spearheaded by the New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT), aims not only to curb package theft but also to mitigate the adverse environmental and safety impacts associated with the surge in delivery truck traffic.

Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez underscored the significance of this endeavor.

“As the number of at-home deliveries have surged in recent years, so have the number of large delivery trucks on our city streets,” Rodriguez said. “The LockerNYC initiative will help reduce the number of trips delivery trucks make each day while also providing a secure place for New Yorkers to receive packages.”

Drawing inspiration from successful models implemented in other cities, such as Seattle, where similar locker programs significantly reduced delivery truck idling and emissions, LockerNYC promises a multifaceted approach to address New York City’s logistical challenges.

To ensure the security and efficacy of the lockers, each installation will be equipped with state-of-the-art surveillance systems, LED lighting, and anti-theft mechanisms. GoLocker, the vendor overseeing the operation and maintenance of the lockers, will provide round-the-clock support and management.

As the LockerNYC pilot unfolds, city officials remain optimistic about its potential to reshape the urban delivery landscape. With plans for extensive evaluation and data collection throughout the pilot phase, NYC DOT aims to refine and expand the program, paving the way for a more sustainable and secure future in package delivery across the city.

“As package theft continues to adversely impact our communities, LockerNYC is an innovative solution that will provide every New Yorker with the safe and secure deliveries they deserve,” said New York State Assemblymember Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn.

Street Naming Event Honors Heroic Legacy of EMT and 9/11 Hero, Hilda Vannata

Mohamed Farghaly on April 19, 2024

Mohamed Farghaly

Councilman Robert Holden and FDNY officials commemorate Hilda Vannata’s legacy by co-naming a street in Middle Village, Queens, in her honor.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@liherald.com

The memory of Hilda Vannata, a beloved Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) was honored on April 12 by Councilman Robert Holden of the 30th Council District of Queens, in collaboration with FDNY officials and local union representatives by co-naming a street in her name.

The ceremony, held on what would have been Vannata’s 68th birthday, marked the unveiling of Hilda Vannata Way at the intersection of 77th Place and Juniper Valley Road in Middle Village. Vannata, who passed away on September 20th, 2023, after battling 9/11-related pancreatic cancer, served admirably for 27 years at FDNY Battalion Station House 14 in the Bronx.

The ceremony began with a rendition of the ‘Star Spangled Banner’, afterward First Deputy Commissioner, Joseph Pfeifer was the first to speak. Addressing the assembled crowd, painted a vivid picture of Vannata’s unwavering commitment to her community.

“The street naming is a special time, it’s a point in time, where we leave a permanent memory of Hilda and her supreme sacrifice to the city of New York,” Pfeifer said. “Hilda for 27 years, served the people of the Bronx, in EMS station 14. A matter of fact, I was talking to some of the EMS members here and they said they called her ‘Mother of the house’ because she took care of everybody. She is an inspiration to all of us and to the people that walk down this block.”

Pfeifer spoke of Vannata’s pivotal role on September 11, 2001, when she bravely responded to the World Trade Center attacks, putting her own life at risk to help rescue and care for those injured in the tragedy. Her courageous actions that day, along with her dedicated service throughout her career, left an indelible mark on the FDNY and the city of New York as a whole.

A little under a year ago we lost a member of the Fire Department family when Emergency Medical Technician Hilda Vanessa succumbed to her hard fought battle with cancer,” Assistant Chief of Emergency Medical Services Paul Miano said. “Hilda was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, and a critical strand of the fabric that makes up this department. Hilda did not just help people because she was an EMT. answering a call for help was her life’s work.”

Councilmember Robert Holden, reflecting on Vannata’s lifetime of service, hailed her as a paragon of excellence in emergency medical services. He emphasized her resilience in the face of adversity, noting her battle with 9/11-related pancreatic cancer, a testament to her enduring strength and determination.

“Today we celebrate Hilda’s lifetime service, highlighting 27 years as an emergency medical technician at FDNY,” Holden said. “Her dedication and bravery set a standard of excellence in emergency medical services and made a profound impact on countless lives through her compassionate care. Her journey to becoming a pivotal member of New York City’s emergency services, is a perfect American success story.”

The decision to co-name the intersection of 77th Place and Juniper Valley Road in Middle Village after Vannata was met with unanimous support, symbolizing the lasting impact she had on her neighborhood and the broader city. Holden underscored the significance of the gesture, stressing that it’s not merely about the sign but about honoring the lives behind it and the profound contributions made by first responders like Vannata.

“This is the neighborhood of first responders,” Holden said. “This community is full of first responders that are all heroes, all of them. And I’m proud of that. Hilda’s resilience in battling this horrific illness showed us a strong spirit she had and serves as an inspiration to everyone.”

Mohamed Farghaly

Officials spoke passionately at the ceremony, highlighting Hilda Vannata’s unwavering dedication to serving her community as an EMT and honoring her legacy with the unveiling of Hilda Vannata Way.

 

Among those in attendance were Vannata’s husband, John, and son, Andy Martinez, both active members of the NYPD, along with numerous family members, friends, and colleagues. Their presence served as a poignant reminder of the deep sense of loss felt by Vannata’s loved ones and the extended FDNY family.

“She, like many other women in this city, did their thing, they made this city what it is over time,” John Vannata said.

In addition to the street dedication, the city council is establishing a new law to create a database honoring all fallen heroes like Hilda, recognizing the profound impact of their service beyond symbolic gestures, ensuring that their legacies of selflessness are preserved for generations to come.

Offering poignant reflections, retired EMT Mo Perez, a close friend of Hilda Vannata, shares cherished memories of their time together at station 14 during the ceremony.

“I can say she brought love to all those who cross her path, especially at station 14,” Perez said. “Hilda was aware of everyone’s birthday, she would put stickers on station mirrors with the dates of those birthdays that will come up so that everyone can be prepared for their contributions. For the holidays, she made sure that the station was ready for celebration of the occasion. She was a great partner and a great party planner. As an EMT, Hilda provided the best patient care to all those who were treated to heal them. Everyone was like family under her care.”

During the ceremony, held on April 12, which would have marked Hilda Vannata’s 68th birthday, her son took a moment to reflect on the significance of the occasion. Just days shy of his own milestone birthday, he expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to honor his Mother in a meaningful way.

“Today I would have caught up with her in the morning and wished her a happy birthday,” Andy Vannata said. “A Mother is a Son’s first true love, a Son, especially the first Son is a Mother’s last true love. That resonated with me as well as it was touching. Your endless love has made a difference in who I’ve come to be. Mom, your love has come full circle as I now love and honor you. You are in my heart for all you are and all that you do. Happy Birthday Mom.”

As the ceremony drew to a close, attendees were encouraged to carry Vannata’s legacy of service and compassion forward in their own lives. Her name on the newly dedicated street sign will serve as a perpetual reminder to future generations of her heroism and unwavering dedication to helping others.

To honor Vannata’s memory in a poignant finale, a stirring bagpipe performance filled the air, providing a fitting tribute to her enduring contributions.  The crowd watched as the sign bearing Hilda Vannata’s name was unveiled to the public. Etched with the words “Hilda Vannata Way,” it will now stand as a permanent fixture at the intersection. The newly dedicated  will stand as a timeless reminder of her heroism, reminding all who pass by of Vannata’s heroism and unwavering dedication to helping others.

Mohamed Farghaly

Community members, officials and family gathered to remember and pay tribute to Hilda Vannata’s dedication and service during the unveiling ceremony of Hilda Vannata Way.

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