Author: ishkurhan

Jackson Heights back-to-school giveaway distributes over 1,000 backpacks, amplifies push for universal school meals

Sept. 3, 2024 By Iryna Shkurhan A week before NYC students head back to the classroom, elected officials wrapped up their backpack giveaways to support families in their districts. On Thursday evening, students had the chance to choose from over 1,000 backpacks laid out on several tables along the 34th Avenue Open Street in Jackson… Read more »

Council Member Won announces $12 million for Queensbridge Park renovations

Aug. 28, 2024 By Iryna Shkurhan During Queensbridge Family Day on Saturday, Aug. 24, elected officials announced they allocated $12 million in funding for capital improvements at the waterfront Queensbridge Park.  The project, led by NYC Parks, will provide a new walking track and upgrade the natural turf ball fields and sports lighting. In an… Read more »

Western Queens gets two new parks, including one for dogs 

Aug. 21, 2024 By Iryna Shkurhan On Monday, Aug. 19, Council Member Julie Won and officials from NYC Parks cut the ribbon on two new parks in Woodside and Maspeth just an hour apart.  The recently completed L/CPL Thomas P. Noonan Playground Dog Run, at 42nd Street and Greenpoint Avenue in Woodside, was one that… Read more »

Japanese food festival to take place in Astoria Sunday

June 28, 2024 By Iryna Shkurhan This weekend, New Yorkers can venture through Japan’s expansive culinary world without having to leave Queens at what is considered the world’s biggest Japanese festival.  On Sunday, June 30, dozens of vendors selling traditional and inventive Japanese food and drinks will be in Astoria. They will line Broadway from… Read more »

Fireworks returning to Astoria Park this Thursday for 40th anniversary

June 26, 2024 By Iryna Shkurhan On Thursday, June 27, fireworks will light up the Astoria waterfront to mark the 40th anniversary of the neighborhood’s Independence Day celebration. Central Astoria Local Development Coalition, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Astoria community, organizes the free event. The area’s City Council Member, Tiffany Cabán,… Read more »

Queens restaurants to receive federal boost for outdoor dining as city program becomes permanent

June 24, 2024 By Iryna Shkurhan  As the nation’s largest outdoor dining program pivots from a temporary pandemic-era program to a permanent fixture across the city, new federal funding will help some Queens restaurant owners jumpstart their participation.  Congresswoman Grace Meng, in partnership with the city’s Small Business Services (SBS) and the Department of Transportation… Read more »