The Secret Garden is the upcoming musical on tap at the Astoria Performing Arts Center (APAC), opening on May 3. The director of the piece and artistic director of the organization Tom Wojtunik sat down with me to talk about why he chose The Secret Garden for this season’s musical production. “I grew up loving musicals,” he began, “but I […]
Schoenberg’s Still As Sweet
Workers renovating the site of a former Broadway bookstore last week evoked memories of a popular bakeshop that served the sweet tooth of local customers for more than 30 years. Workers removed an awning outside the former Seaburn Book store on Broadway near 34th Street, unveiling a dated sign that reads, Schoenberg’s Bake Shop, a once popular stop off for […]
White Castle Closes LIC Location
The folks at White Castle, who packed up their burgers and buns and closed their Long Island City restaurant recently, want their faithful customers and the neighborhood to know they have not abandoned them. White Castle spokesperson Susan Milazzo told the Gazette the fast food chain shut down the storefront restaurant at 21st Street and Broadway when their lease expired […]
Ulrich Announces Challenge To Addabbo In November Election
In a race that promises to be a furious battle between two incumbents, Councilmember Eric Ulrich last week announced he will challenge state Senator Joseph Addabbo Jr. in the election to win the 15th District seat next November. Besides many other interesting aspects of this contest, it will also play a key role of whether Democrats or Republicans will control […]
Immaculate Conception School Alumni Hosts Reunion
On April 28, graduates from the 1940s attended a reunion hosted by the Alumni Association of Immaculate Conception School in Astoria. The reunion luncheon, held at Trattoria L’incontro was well attended. Graduates, who came from many areas of the tri-state region, including one from Texas, averaged in age from 80 to 85 years old. They were all happy to be […]
Board 1 Opposes Child Care Cuts, School Closings
On the recommendation of Community Board 1 Education Committee Chairperson Linda Perno, at its April 17 meeting at Astoria World Manor, the board voted to send a letter to the city Administration for Children’s Services in opposition to proposed cuts to child care services in the budget. The elimination of $104 million for the care and education of preschool children […]
Distinguished Molloy H.S. Graduates: Kelly And Cuomo
Rumors are circulating that Raymond Kelly, the current police commissioner for the city of New York, will take part in the 2013 mayoral race. As a result, his background is being discussed. An interesting scenario would develop if Kelly were elected: then both the governor and mayor of New York would be alumni from Archbishop Molloy H.S. in Briarwood. Kelly […]
UNCLE GEORGE’S GREEK TAVERNA
Uncle George’s Greek Taverna has been a fixture in Astoria and a comforting sight for hungry New Yorkers since 1978 and there’s no sign of stopping. This family- style taverna is located on the busy corner of Broadway and 34th Street with a skylit atrium that overlooks the passersby. The homey dining rooms are comfortable and outfitted with family-sized tables […]
New Series Shooting In Forest Hills
Two very popular locations for shooting movies and television shows in our country are Hollywood, California and New York City. Currently, CBS is filming their most recent pilot, Baby Big Shot, here on Austin Street in Forest Hills. The show will be a legal drama centered in New York and the main character is a woman named Martina, who uses […]
Doggie Day Afternoon
Wellpets and NYC Pet Services are giving a pup party in Astoria Park leash area, 19-01 23rd Ave., Astoria, on Sunday, May 20, from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. The event is open to the public and will feature fun activities, free treats, samples and other surprises. For more information, or to help sponsor, call Samantha, 718-350-1635, or visit NYC […]

