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Martin Luther School to host Open House Event on April 24th

glendaleregstg on April 23, 2024

Martin Luther is a top private school in Maspeth, Queens that has been serving the community for over 60 years.

A few notable alumni include David Daraio, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Maspeth Federal Savings, Lou Bekios, Owner and Operator of the Grand Florist in Maspeth, and Tammy Sanchez, Co-owner and VP of The Queens Ledger Newspaper.

Martin Luther School’s Open House Event is Wednesday, April 24th, from 4:30-6:30pm. See MLS’ Open House commercial here.

The event will provide families with the opportunity to tour the school, meet students and administrators, and discover why Martin Luther School has been a top faith-based private school in Queens for decades.

Martin Luther School welcomes and values students of all faiths and backgrounds. They serve high school grades 9-12 and middle school grades 6-8.

Martin Luther School enables students to acquire skills, discover talents, and develop interests on their path to success in a supportive environment. Every student is given a new iPad that enables 1:1 experiential learning to do their homework, collaborate on group projects and delve into ideas. Combining creativity, logic, and technical skills MLS STREAMS® enables students to visualize connections while collaborating across disciplines.

Students may earn as many as 27 credits toward their college education during their time at Martin Luther School. Current college partners: Concordia College – Nebraska and St. John’s University.

Martin Luther School is located at 60-02 Maspeth Avenue in Maspeth, Queens.

Royal Collectibles: A Family’s Journey Through the Ages

glendaleregstg 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

glendaleregstg 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

glendaleregstg 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

glendaleregstg 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.

Citifield is the go-to ballpark for food and entertainment in 2024

glendaleregstg on April 16, 2024

Top NYC food brands deliver a fun experience to baseball fans at CitiField

by John Sanchez & Yasin Akdag 

The Queens Ledger News Team. Photo taken by Eli Kolins

New York Mets Baseball Opening Day was Thursday, March 28, and baseball wasn’t the only thing that fans were excited about experiencing at Citi Field.

Did you know that Citi Field in Queens, New York, was recognized by USA Today as having the best food in any MLB stadium –  twice.

Fans look forward to experiencing an all-star lineup of food vendors, including: Empanada Mama, Glaze Donuts, Shake Shack, Pat LaFrieda, Chiddy Cheesesteak, and more at Citi Field during each and every Mets home game.

Citi Field’s newest celebrity chef partners include Anne Burrell, Adam Richman and Judy Joo, and all three have cooked up something new and exciting this season.

Anne Burrell’s Italian Eats features her new Loaded Pepperoni Chips –  similar to loaded nachos, but with fried pepperoni cups. You can find these at Anne Burrell’s Italian Treats on the Field Level section 101.

Adam Richman’s Burger Hall of Fame features his French Onion Soup Burger, and can be found at Section 103.

Joo’s Seoul Bird features Korean Fried Chicken, and can be found at the Hudson Whiskey NY Club on the Promenade Level.

“Highlighting the best NYC food brands is an important part of the food program at Citi Field,” said Jason Eksterowicz, Senior Executive Chef at Citi Field.

“We are a melting pot. At Citi Field, you’re not going to find things that are cool in D.C., or any vendors from Philly. Everything is going to be local to New York,” said Eksterowicz.

The main media event at Citi Field introducing “What’s New in 24” took place on March 28th, and the Queens Ledger News Team got a sneak peek at the exclusive brands that are gracing the ballpark this 2024-25 season.

Empanada Mama’s Cheesesteak and Banana Nutella Empanadas, Prince Street Pizza’s Pepperoni Square, Gyro Jimmy’s Greek Grill’s Loukoumades, Taqueria Nixtamal’s Birria Taco and Esquites, and Wok n’ Roll’s Rainbow Cookie Eggroll were a few of the many brands that we enjoyed.

We also got a behind the scenes look at the new Delta SKY360º Club, upgraded team store, buzz-worthy LED lighting, and the dynamic Queens Crew dance team.

 

Empanada Mama

  Cheesesteak Empanadas. Photo taken by Eli Kolins

Empanada Mama serves up empanadas the size of baseballs. Popular for being a snack that is easy to devour, you can’t go wrong with their Cheesesteak, Buffalo Chicken, Greek Spinach Pie, or Banana Nutella dessert flavors. Find them on the Field Level in Section 103 and embark on a trip to experience the food of America del Sur.

 

Glaze Donuts

Custom Mets Donuts. Photo taken by Eli Kolins

Enilda, a partner of Glaze Donuts, invites you to try their award-winning doughnuts! Dig into their glazed doughnuts filled with orange Boston cream that’s ready to hit your tastebuds.  Their custom Mets doughnut is calling fans to cheer for their team, while satisfying your sweet tooth, Go Mets! (Get them throughout the Citi Field).

 

Gyro Jimmy’s Greek grill 

 Lamb Gyro. Courtesy of @gyrojimmys

Try their delicious lamb gyro dripping with tzatziki sauce and loaded with lettuce, tomato, onions, fries, and packed inside a pita. Have a sweet tooth? Their traditional Greek loukoumades – fried and glazed honey balls topped with cinnamon powder will leave you craving more! Meet the chef behind the menu, Jimmy Stathakis, who previously worked as a waiter and then started the restaurant business 20 years ago, and during COVID-19 opened the joint together with his partner Billy Vasos wondering where the pandemic would lead them. (that’s what real passion is about right?) Eat like the Greek gods and summon your power like a baseball player on the field! Hoorah! (Knock yourself out and run to the Excelsior Level at the Caesars Sportsbook Metropolitan Market).

 

Taqueria Nixtamal NYC

Birria Tacos. Photo taken by Eli Kolins

Enjoy your favorite sports game by dipping their birria beef tacos with melted cheese cilantro and onions into a cup of broth. To top it off, taste the sweetness of their Esquites (street corn for Spanish). This delicious dessert flavored with mayonnaise, cotija, and cheese certainly steals the show ¡Viva la Mexico!

The owners Rosabla Ruiz & Fernando Luis opened the restaurant 13 years ago, and their  Taqueria is known to be making its way to stadiums and festivals. (Now you can grab it at Citifield’s the Field Level at Taste of the City. 

 

Wok n’ roll

Rainbow eggrolls. Photo taken by Eli Kolins

Dig into these unique eggrolls layered with fun and festive rainbow colors filled with raspberry jam and chocolate syrup. The joint has only been open for three years and offers a new alternative to your regular bowl takeaway with a modern Chinese takeout that comes in specialty boxes. The owner Christopher wants to keep his customers entertained: “I prioritize my customers’ food experience by bringing them something unique like our eggrolls next to doing collaborations with local artists from Long Island where we’re based.” (Try it on the Field Level at the Metropolitan Fry Factory in Taste of the City).

 

Chiddy’s Cheesesteaks 

Chiddy Dog. Photo taken by Eli Kolins

This is their second year at Citi field, and this time around, Chiddy introduces a hotdog-cheesesteak mashup. Two legends in one bite! This is a combo that’ll leave you wanting more! The idea behind the Chiddy Dog, combining cheesesteaks with hotdogs, logically came from the lack of space in the food truck. Mike owns Chiddy’s Cheesesteaks, and the nickname “Chiddy” is adopted from his last name Chidester. He’s been running the business together with his partners Evan and Daron: “Our cheesesteaks were pretty popular alongside our regular beef hotdogs, we thought why not put them together in one, and that’s how the Chiddy dog was born”, Mike says. They’ve been doing cheesesteaks for 10 years, and the peeps love it! (Available on the Field Level in Section 132) 

On the entertainment front, The Amazin’ Mets Foundation introduces a range of exciting initiatives at Citi Field this season. Fans can enjoy The Queens Crew show and explore the expanded Mets Team store alongside a new raffle program benefiting community programs. Additionally, the luxurious DeltaSky 360° Club debuts, offering upscale amenities and gourmet snacks. Each home game presents opportunities for fans to win prizes, which Mets owner Alex Cohen emphasizes on within the community. Anticipation builds for the upcoming season with these enhancements. 

Kudos to CitiField’s Hospitality team for ensuring that even if the Mets season record is lousy, fans will be too busy eating to be upset, said John Jastremski, Host of New York New York Podcast for The Ringer on Spotify, SNY TV Sports Host, and BQE Media Sports Columnist.

 

New Yorkers Witness Solar Eclipse

glendaleregstg on April 12, 2024

Eclipse Totality as seen from Upstate NY

Photos by Eli Kolins

 

Eclipse viewers at Athens Park in Astoria

Photos by Daleelah Saleh

Eclipse viewers on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Photos by Charlie Finnerty

City Presents First-of-its-Kind Environmental Inequality Study at Variety Boys & Girls Club

glendaleregstg on April 11, 2024

By Charlie Finnerty 

Peggy Shepard speaks at the Variety Boys and Girls Club. Credit: Celia Bernhardt

The Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice (MOCEJ) released their Environmental Justice NYC (EJNYC) report Friday, April 5. In an event at the Variety Boys and Girls Club, MOCEJ Executive Director Elijah Hutchinson presented the findings of the report and demonstrated mapping tools available for the public to explore the data available, emphasizing that the report is the first of its kind in the city.

“With this information in hand, New Yorkers can now advance better policy and work together to achieve better health outcomes, reimagine polluting infrastructure, and increase tree canopy for all,” Hutchinson said.

The report examines flood and heat vulnerability, exposure to air and hazardous materials pollution, transit access, availability of safe and healthy housing, finding that low-income communities and communities of color in New York City are the most vulnerable to environmental inequities.

The Astoria neighborhood surrounding the Variety Boys and Girls Club has long been cited by environmental justice activists as one of the city’s most vulnerable communities, dubbed ‘Asthma Alley’ due to the air pollution from fossil fuel burning power plant smoke stacks which dominate the Astoria-Ditmars landscape. During the presentation, CEO of Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens Costa Constantinides asked students in the audience if they or someone they know has asthma or breathing problems. At least half the kids raised their hands.

“The wrongs that have happened to communities didn’t happen overnight. It happened over periods of time,” Constantinides said. “Here in this neighborhood, Robert Moses redlined west of 21st Street. And you have public housing built, in 1939 Queensbridge, in 1949 Ravenswood and Astoria houses. And in 1963, they put the big power plant. You guys all know the big power plant there on Vernon Boulevard, you see the big stacks and all the smoke? Well, in this neighborhood, west of 21st Street, the rates of asthma are higher than in the rest of the borough of Queens. What do you think contributes to that?”

Children raise their hands during Constantinides’ speech. Credit: Celia Bernhardt

Peggy Shepard, environmental activist and co-founder and executive director of WE ACT for Environmental Justice, said the report is a crucial milestone in undoing the harms of environmental inequality.

“I’ve been working on these issues for a very long time, and really just waiting for the city to understand its responsibility to address this,” Shepard said. “The whole point of this is not just to get the report. We needed to have the basic facts and now we do. Now it’s about developing a plan to fix these problems.”

Children learn to use EJNYC mapping tools at the Variety Boys and Girls Club. Credit: Celia Bernhardt

Pol Position: Trolling & Adams/Heastie

glendaleregstg on April 11, 2024

After we posted about our Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights walk with Assembly candidate Hiram Monserrate last week, we got some sparking comments on social media about why we would give this guy any press at all. 

When we sat down with Hiram, he wanted to clear the air about his reputation and questioned a recent article from the Ledger which referred to his past legal troubles. After explaining that our readers are savvy and leaving it out could signify that we were trying to hide his past, he talked about his new life with a wife and young child. He also showed us that the part of his past life that has not changed is his love and fighting spirit for his community. And we will tell you something that is only talked about in the highest of Queens political circles: Monserrate is ‘relevant’ and he has a following which many in the democratic clubs fear fractures Queens democratic politics. He is running for Jeff Aubry’s seat. Larinda Hooks, who is well known at Elmcore, is the choice of county — and Aubry. Stay tuned for that race.

Internet trollers who minimize the message from our reporting about the sex workers and child labor tragedy going on in his neighborhood should focus on the message: that area needs attention. It doesn’t need a sweep once every six months. The illegal activity is rampant and for those living near Roosevelt Avenue, to have a reasonable quality of life shouldn’t be asking too much.

By the way another nugget he suggested is that the MTA should be an agency, not an authority, which doesn’t have the oversight and agency, would. Not a bad thought.

Carl Heastie, the leader of the NY State Assembly is doubling down on his notion on not recognizing that people who loot and harm retail workers should not be considered felons. Mayor Adams disagrees. But the power the Assembly Speaker wields means it goes nowhere. The missing piece in Heastie’s stance is that cops continue to lose the ability to perform their job. It means workers at these retail stores don’t pursue shoplifters. It means that what we continue to witness in drug stores all over the city the lawlessness of looting will not change. Don’t wonder why we will see store after store have simple everyday items behind locked glass shelves. It takes ten minutes to track down a store worker to open the glass showcase to get a bottle of aspirin… if you can even find a drug store within walking distance from your home anymore.

We don’t think reformers of criminal justice had this in mind. If criminal justice is truly to be reformed, laws and procedures like this have to be rolled back. The ‘new common sense’ goes too far when real criminality is not dealt with in a true ‘common sense’ manner.



Editorial: Willets Point Casino Poll …. Really?

glendaleregstg on April 11, 2024

Let’s do a neighborhood poll to see if people want legal cannabis shops on their main street. How about a community poll to see if residents agree to a homeless shelter in their neighborhood? We’ll bet the results wildly surpass the ‘75% against’ results of the State Senator Jessica Ramos’ Willets Point Casino poll for Corona. In fact we might see both our polls show 95% or-more against legal cannabis and homeless shelter. To base your decision to support a project on a neighborhood poll is careless. 

Jessica happens to be a solid representative for the district. As chair of the Senate labor committee she has been a champion for the rights of workers, fair pay and equality. Her district is in the transit hub of New York. Jackson Heights, Corona and Elmhurst bustle with trains and busses 24/7. As a member of the Senate transportation committee it’s quite important that Jessica represent us. 

But right under her nose, sex workers, illegal food vendors and cannabis shops are so rampant, it’s impossible to walk Roosevelt Avenue (like we did last week) without gasping in fright for the ‘neighbors’ who live within blocks of the avenue from 82nd to104th.  We have multiple brothels, dozens of ‘street meat’ vendors and dozens of little kids hawking everything from candy to eggs to iphone chargers. Where’s the interest in labor there?

We’re not calling her out. We know the police are present on Roosevelt. We know that she spends time in the district and it’s an enforcement problem, but it seems we all turn a blind eye and blame someone else for the problem. We talked to cops on patrol that night. We talked to Sanitation enforcement. They admit there is little they have the power to do. “These people doing illegal business don’t carry ID, so how are we going to summons them?” one official told us. Police and sanitation have to be given the tools to work together and do consistent sweeps. The neighbors deserve it.

We got the invitation from Hiram Monserrate to walk Roosevelt with him. We took it. Jessica, we would love to walk Roosevelt with you in the coming weeks. See what’s there. Polls and Town Halls are great, but decisions about the future of the neighborhood are never made by polls. People don’t want change. Many of us don’t understand change. Yet the City and the State, regardless of polls institute congestion pricing, open homeless shelters and license cannabis shops.

It happens to be true that people and organizations who have come out in favor of the casino there have either been given money or promised money from the Steve Cohen treasure chest. Well we haven’t been promised anything, nor have we gotten any money and we can safely say that a casino and all the entertainment and food amenities that come with it will make Queens better.  Having a developer with deep pockets, who has shown that he gives back, is key. Signing a deal which will enhance the Willets Point transit hub, provide jobs, provide real shows and a deal that awards money for community improvement near the casino is a winner.

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