Taylor Dennis
Since 1913, Astoria Park has been a neighborhood staple. People from all over Queens come to this expansive 60-acre park to walk along the East River, admire the Manhattan skyline, practice tricks on their skateboard, run around the track, and picnic in the park. Now locals have the ability to attend free summer concerts at Astoria Park’s new Performance Center.
The night began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The symbolic green ribbon was held and cut by Borough Commissioner at NYC Department of Parks & Recreation Jacqueline Langsam, Center Astoria’s George Stamatiades and Marie Torniali, and others. Once cut, the night kicked off with Commissioner Langsam giving a powerful speech. She expressed just how important this park is to the community and all it has to offer. “There are not many places where you can go swimming while overlooking the East River, Manhattan skyline, and two spectacular bridges. It’s no wonder Astoria Pool is one of the most popular pools,” Langsam stated. “In fact, it’s the largest pool in New York City and serves not only the Astoria community, but the entire borough of Queens and beyond.”
This new center, located at the site of the pool’s former Olympic high-dive, features amphitheater-style seating, sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, and an immersive natural setting. The iconic diving boards remain in place as a tribute to the pool’s historical past. Commissioner Langsam highlighted the unique beauty of the space, stating, “The decorative glass, the art deco metal highlights, the proud Olympic history-not to mention this incredible view.”
Although the performance center looks finished, it’s still not done. As they continue to fundraise, they plan on redoing the pool’s locker rooms and fixing up the rooftop deck that overlooks the skyline. Commissioner Langsam stated, “We are still not done. There’s great beauty and potential for the locker room and the rooftop deck, which is just behind me. I hope you can support our effort to continue fundraising to restore these historic spaces.” The diving platform has been a staple of the community since Robert Mosses built it in 1936. Since then, it’s been used summer after summer. Although the community is sad to see the diving pool go, they are welcoming these new changes. These changes were made possible by Center Astoria’s George Stamatiades and Marie Torniali who advocated for and arranged the entire evening.
The free concert drew families, children, and dogs alike, all gathering to enjoy an evening of incredible music by the NYPD Jazz Band. Off-duty officers were also in attendance, showing support for their fellow peers. Many in the community turned it into a full night out, arriving with baskets of food, toys for their children, and cozy cushions. As the band began to play, spectators from across the park streamed in, eager to grab a front-row seat. Mothers and children danced along, some captured the moment with photos and videos, while others joined in singing along to the music.
NYPD Jazz Band members were absolutely incredible at their craft. Two officers took turns signing popular songs such as Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me,” Gladys Knight & the Pips “Midnight Train to Georgia,” Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely” and many more. As the sun began to set, flood lights came on and lit up the amphitheater, really setting the stage for a great night.
If you missed tonight, don’t worry as there are big plans to continue this concert series all summer long. Stamatiades stated, “There’s gonna be a lot more events here…God bless this terrific jazz band that’s going to make you rock.”
