In recent emails from the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Queens, we learned of a major investment set to reshape youth programming in Queens. The National Hockey League and the National Hockey League Players’ Association have awarded a $2.5 million grant to the club through the Industry Growth Fund. The funding will support the construction of a new community clubhouse in Astoria—designed as a safe, inclusive space for young people and families. A key feature will be a dedicated hockey innovation space, expanding access to programming, mentorship, and resources. “For more than a century, the NHL has believed that our responsibility extends far beyond the rink,” said Bill Daly. “This grant is about investing in people, in neighborhoods, and in the future.” Marty Walsh added that the project will have a lasting impact on youth across Queens, while Costa Constantinides noted the expansion could help serve more than 16,000 young people annually. Construction is expected to begin later in 2026, with the facility poised to become one of the largest Boys & Girls Club sites in the country. Read the full announcement here: https://mailchi.mp/bgcqueens.org/5000-young-lives-changed-in-14767663

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As spring gets underway in New York City, the NYC Ferry has announced events such as honoring Arab American heritage to getting kids active and taking advantage of expanded ferry service, there’s plenty happening across the five boroughs this month. Celebrating Arab American Heritage Month April marks National Arab American Heritage Month, a time to recognize the rich culture, traditions, and contributions of Arab Americans. Across New York City, neighborhoods like Bay Ridge, Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, and Astoria’s “Little Egypt” come alive with incredible food, coffee, and small businesses that reflect generations of heritage. From authentic Palestinian and Lebanese cuisine to traditional Yemeni coffee and fresh pastries, these communities offer a chance to experience diverse flavors and stories. With NYC Ferry providing convenient access to many of these neighborhoods, including locations right here in Astoria, exploring and supporting Arab-owned businesses by eating good food has never been easier. For a list of businesses read here. Healthy Kids Day Brings Family Fun Families can also look forward to Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18 at 10:00 AM, a nationwide initiative focused on improving the health and well-being of children. The event features a full lineup of activities including games, fitness, crafts, and giveaways—making it a perfect outing for families looking to stay active together. It’s also a great opportunity to learn about summer camp programs, meet staff, and take advantage of early bird discounts before the season begins. For event details click here. NYC Ferry’s Spring Schedule Is Here NYC Ferry launched its Spring 2026 schedule on April 8, bringing increased service frequency and added capacity, especially on weekends. Whether you’re planning a cultural outing, heading to a family event, or just exploring the city as the weather warms up, the updated schedule makes travel smoother and more accessible....

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A growing encampment on a busy commercial stretch in Astoria has sparked concern among residents, business owners, and local leaders, highlighting the ongoing tension between public safety, quality of life, and the need for compassionate, effective outreach to unhoused individuals. This encampment is located near the corner of 30th Avenue and Steinway Street and includes some unhoused individuals living on the sidewalk. Some have reported open drinking and other questionable activities occurring publicly, raising discomfort among friends, neighbors and local businesses. At the same time, the visible conditions show us a deeper issue: the vulnerability and instability faced by those living without shelter. A Call for Coordinated City Response Community leaders are increasingly emphasizing that the solution cannot be piecemeal. Our own Richard Khuzami, president of OANA, framed the issue as one requiring a unified, multi-agency response rather than isolated interventions: “The city should be responding in a coordinated way — with outreach offering shelter and services, sanitation addressing the conditions on the block, and agencies and elected officials working together to make sure the sidewalk remains safe and usable.” Richard’s statement captures a broader sentiment: that enforcement alone is insufficient, and that meaningful progress depends on consistent outreach, trust-building, and follow-through from city agencies. Efforts are already underway. Tiffany Cabán, who represents the district, has indicated that her office is working alongside the Department of Social Services, Department of Homeless Services, and local organizations to connect the individuals with support and shelter options. However, as many outreach workers will attest, acceptance of services is not immediate. Building trust can take time, particularly for individuals who may have had negative experiences with institutional systems in the past. Community members are also being encouraged to use 311 to report conditions, which can help trigger additional outreach and city attention. While this...

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APPLICATION DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO APRIL 17TH Applications are now open for Youth Talk Democracy, a summer think tank for rising 8th graders through high school seniors, in collaboration with Queens College. Participants will research and analyze policy issues, engage with guest speakers and local leaders, take part in weekly service opportunities, collaborate with peers, and develop a policy proposal reflecting youth visions for America. Final proposals will be presented at a Youth Summit in the fall. The program runs from July 16 through August 20, 2026, with sessions held twice per week, including at least one in-person meeting at Queens College or the Forest Hills Library. Participation is free! Youth Talk Democracy is an extension of Let’s Talk Democracy, a grassroots organization dedicated to educating communities about government, encouraging dialogue, and empowering civic engagement. Application Deadline: April 10, 2026 To apply, please fill out this form.

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This year, Socrates Sculpture Park marks an incredible milestone—its 40th anniversary—with a bold new season titled “Begin Again.” What started as an abandoned landfill transformed by artists and neighbors has become one of New York City’s most dynamic public art spaces, and this anniversary honors that spirit of reinvention. At the heart of the celebration is the Artists Choose Artists Fellowship Anniversary, a special program highlighting ten visionary artists whose work will be installed throughout the park from June 2026 through April 2028. Spanning sculpture, textiles, ceramics, and socially engaged practices, these projects continue the park’s long-standing commitment to experimentation and public dialogue. The season also introduces Homecoming, a new series welcoming alumni artists back to the park. Kicking things off is renowned sculptor Chakaia Booker, whose monumental works Serendipity and Gridlock will return to the waterfront beginning in May—offering both longtime fans and new visitors a powerful look at her legacy. Beyond exhibitions, Socrates Sculpture Park’s 2026 season is packed with free public programming designed for all ages. From the annual Earth Month Convergence in April to summer highlights like outdoor performances, hands-on workshops, and community festivals, the park continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place. Signature events include the Summer Solstice celebration in June, as well as collaborations with organizations like the Metropolitan Opera and Ballet Folklórico Mexicano de Nueva York. Visitors can also enjoy wellness offerings like yoga, meditation, and even kayaking along Hallet’s Cove. The celebration continues with the 40th Anniversary Gala on June 4, bringing together supporters, artists, and community members to honor four decades of creativity, collaboration, and ecological care. As Socrates Sculpture Park looks ahead, Begin Again is more than a theme—it’s a recommitment to the idea that public spaces can be reimagined and that art belongs to everyone. Whether you’re a...

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OANA is pleased to share an upcoming program at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria this April, celebrating Marilyn Monroe and her lasting impact on film and culture. The event features a selection of her classic New York–set films, highlighting some of her most memorable roles. The program also includes a special discussion exploring Monroe’s legacy, her connection to New York, and the iconic imagery that continues to shape how she is remembered. It’s a unique opportunity to experience her work on the big screen and reflect on her influence on cinema. Community members are encouraged to learn more and take part in this special cultural program in Astoria. For details and information about other events happening at the Museum of the Moving Image, please visit: https://movingimage.org/series/marilyn-monroe-in-new-york/

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OANA would like to inform the community about a new affordable housing lottery that has recently launched for Astoria Cove, bringing 75 affordable units to a new 731-unit residential development on 26th Avenue in Astoria. Developed by the KS Group and Alma Realty, this project includes two residential buildings rising 26 and 7 storiesalong the Astoria waterfront. These buildings represent the first completed structures of the larger Astoria Cove master development, which is planned as a multi-phase project expected to deliver over 2,800 apartments across several residential buildings along the East River. (Astoria Cove) The current phase will ultimately include four mixed-use residential buildings totaling 731 apartments above retail and parking. (citybiz) The newly launched housing lottery offers 75 income-restricted affordable apartments available through NYC Housing Connect. Units are reserved for households earning between 80% and 130% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Available apartments include studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units with rents varying depending on income tier and household size. Residents will have access to a wide range of amenities, including: Fitness center and spa Yoga and dance studio Recreation and game rooms Business center Rooftop and outdoor terrace spaces Package lockers and storage Bicycle storage Covered parking with EV charging stations Interested applicants must meet all income and household size requirements and submit their applications through NYC Housing Connect. The application deadline is June 2, 2026. Shorter version for soc media: OANA would like to inform the community about a new affordable housing lottery that has launched for the Astoria Cove waterfront development in Astoria. The lottery includes 75 affordable apartments in a new 731-unit residential development on 26th Avenue, built by KS Group and Alma Realty. The completed phase includes two residential buildings rising 26 and 7 stories along the East River waterfront. These buildings represent the first completed structures of the larger Astoria Cove master plan, which was approved as a multi-phase redevelopment of the former...

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There’s a lot happening this month at The Noguchi Museum, including the continued run of Noguchi’s New York, an exhibition exploring Isamu Noguchi’s contributions to New York City through both realized and unrealized projects. With spring underway, the Museum’s garden is beginning to bloom, making it an especially great time to visit. Families can also look forward to a range of hands-on programs and activities designed for visitors of all ages, offering creative ways to engage with Noguchi’s work together. Exhibitions Noguchi’s New York Through September 13, 2026 Currently on view, Noguchi’s New York examines the artist’s relationship with New York City, highlighting the ways he sought to shape the urban environment through sculpture, design, and public works. Light and Stone: Revisiting Noguchi’s 1986 Venice Biennale Opens May 6, 2026 This upcoming exhibition revisits Noguchi’s presentation at the 1986 Venice Biennale, focusing on his exploration of light, material, and space. New Interactive Map A new interactive map, created in connection with Noguchi’s New York, charts Isamu Noguchi’s homes, studios, and projects across New York City, highlighting both completed works and conceptual ideas. You can explore the map here. Upcoming Programs Free First Friday Friday, April 3 Admission is free, with an art-making activity taking place in the galleries. Gallery Kit: Free First Friday (Family Program) Friday, April 3 | 3–5 pm Visitors of all ages are invited to explore Isamu Noguchi’s work through guided art-making in the galleries. This month, design a sculpture inspired by New York City in connection to Noguchi’s New York. Hands-On: Stamp Prints Sunday, April 19 A hands-on workshop exploring stamp-making techniques inspired by Noguchi’s use of shape, texture, and pattern. Open Studio: Cut and Fold (Family Program) Saturday, April 11 | 11 am–1 pm Families with children of all ages can explore the galleries and...

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NYC Ferry’s Spring 2026 goes into effect April 8 with more weekend service and a few route tweaks. The NYC Ferry is adjusting how the East River runs, especially on weekends, where it will split into two separate routes all day. Weekend service is getting a boost on routes like Astoria, Rockaway–Soundview, and St. George, with increased frequency and capacity. This means shorter waits and more consistent service during busy weekend travel. There’s also a small but important addition: a short weekend shuttle running in the early morning between Red Hook/Atlantic Basin and Wall Street/Pier 11 to handle cruise ship demand. Overall, it’s about more service when demand is high and smoother routing across the system. See the schedule here: https://www.ferry.nyc/blog/spring-2026-schedule/

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There will be a free virtual info session on April 9 at 1 PM with the Andromeda Community Initiative. During the session you will be able to learn about a free Green Construction & Energy Efficiency training program designed to help NYC residents build a career in the trades. The program includes industry-recognized certifications and is completely free for participants. This session is a great opportunity to explore a pathway into construction and energy-efficient work, ask questions, and see if the program is right for you. RSVP here: https://tinyurl.com/ACIInfoSession2026

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