LIC/Astoria Journal

Stan Morse speaks at Queensbridge. Photo by Cole Sinanian. “It can be only pothole politics and snow shoveling,” said state Assembly candidate Mary Jobaida at a recent rally asking the mayor to fund much-needed repairs. BY COLE SINANIAN cole@queensledger.com “Mayor Mamdani, you are a socialist,” said public housing organizer and NYCHA resident Stanley Morse, at a rally at the Queensbridge South public houses Thursday evening.

“Mejor del Cauca,” meaning “Best of Cauca,” has made its way from Colombia to Mighty Oak Roasters in Astoria, Queens. Earlier this year, Sean Donnelly, co-owner of Mighty Oak Roasters, traveled to Colombia to serve as a judge in the prestigious “Mejor del Cauca” competition.” The annual event showcases some of the finest coffees grown by smallholder farmers throughout the Cauca region, one of Colombia’s premier coffee-producing areas.

Diana Moreno won a special election for Assembly District 36 on February 3, and now faces a new primary for the seat on June 23. (Photo: Jack Delaney) BY JACK DELANEY | jdelaney@queensledger.com Under normal circumstances, a newly-minted state representative from New York City has half the year to prepare for the job after they’re elected. The primaries are in June, so the state legislature — which only meets from January until June — has already closed up shop.

New York City’s DSA electeds with Bernie Sanders. Photo via @dianaforqueens. NICOLAS STERGIOU Producer, Social Media Manager, labor Organizer, and Unofficial “Astoria Street Spectator.” nicolas.stergiou@gmail.com In Ancient Greece, sometime around 507 BC, my people invented dmokratía—derived from demos (the people) and kratos (power or rule). In modern English, we call it democracy. And in Astoria, Greek culture is woven into the neighborhood’s identity.

Congressional candidate Chuck Park speaks at a campaign fundraiser at Chowk on Thursday, May 29. BY COLE SINANIAN cole@queensledger.com Congressional candidate Chuck Park showcased his breakdancing skills in front of dozens of supporters and curious  locals at Woodside bar Chowk Thursday night.

When Queens’ movie studios become assets, workers become scapegoats. NICOLAS STERGIOU | nicolas.stergiou@gmail.com Producer, Social Media Manager, labor Organizer, and Unofficial “Astoria Street Spectator.” For over 100 years, Astoria has helped make movies, television, and commercials. Before the giant Hollywood sign even existed in California, movies were already being made here in Queens.

When Queens’ movie studios become assets, workers become scapegoats. NICOLAS STERGIOU | nicolas.stergiou@gmail.com Producer, Social Media Manager, labor Organizer, and Unofficial “Astoria Street Spectator.” For over 100 years, Astoria has helped make movies, television, and commercials. Before the giant Hollywood sign even existed in California, movies were already being made here in Queens.

Between the gleaming towers of Long Island City and the sludgy waters of Newtown Creek lies a rare green oasis — and a glimmer of hope for a post-industrial future. By LUAN ROGERS news@queensledger.com DUTCH KILLS — On Friday evening a group of about 30 people gathered on an unassuming street corner under the Long Island Expressway. As the cars roared overhead, they clambered cautiously up a dirt hill.

LIC’s Energy Tech students made a strong showing at a high school climate innovation pitch contest modeled after “Shark Tank.” BY JACK DELANEY jdelaney@queensledger.com CENTRAL PARK — Energy Tech High School, a STEM academy on the border of Astoria and Long Island City, prides itself on being ahead of the curve. Rows upon rows of solar panels blanket its roof, and several years ago the city provided the funds to build an in-house hydroponics lab.

Astoria coffee favorite Mighty Oak Roasters celebrated its 7-year anniversary this past weekend by teaming up with Curley’s Bagels for a special one-day pop-up that brought together two beloved Queens brands. The event drew a steady crowd of locals who stopped by the café for fresh bagels, specialty schmears, and Mighty Oak’s signature wood-roasted coffee, turning an ordinary Sunday morning into a neighborhood celebration.