Hey neighbor,

In case you missed it: we had a real earthquake this week, a small one but enough for a few coffee cups to rattle. El Coyote on Northern Blvd has changed its name and sparked mixed reviews. Some love the fresh take, others miss the old menu. Walgreens on 82nd is closing after repeated theft issues, and the Belvedere complex revealed it’s basically hiding a mini rainforest complete with papaya trees.

But that’s last week’s news. Here’s what’s coming up so you can get out, see the neighborhood, and maybe make some stories of your own.

(Heads-up: times and places can change, so make sure you confirm event details with the organizers before you go. Looking for more? This is just a short list. Find the full calendar at jacksonheightsinsider.com/events)

⭐ Featured Event

Gaiteros de Pueblo Santo / Traditional Colombian Gaita Music | 8:00 PM | Terraza 7 • Traditional gaita, Afro‑Caribbean drums, and big energy. Latin Grammy–nominated group. • $30 → Catch the live set​

Tuesday, Aug 12

Jackson Heights Tuesday Cinema: Amélie (R, 2001) | 3:00 PM | Queens Public Library at Jackson Heights • Film screening in the Lower Level Auditorium. RSVP encouraged. → Grab a seat​

ESL Conversation Club | 4:00 PM | 34th Avenue & 93rd Street • Practice English with neighbors on the Open Street. All levels welcome. → Join the circle​

Wednesday, Aug 13

Play Dungeons & Dragons @ The Queensboro | 6:00 PM | The Queensboro • Friendly tables for all levels. Materials provided. RSVP encouraged. → Save your spot​

Thursday, Aug 14

Gouache, Your New Love – Painting Course (ENG/ESP) | 1:30 PM | A.R.T. Shop • Learn gouache basics and make something bright. Small group. • $30 → Book your spot​

Friday, Aug 15

Gaiteros de Pueblo Santo / Traditional Colombian Gaita Music | 8:00 PM | Terraza 7 • (featured event, see above)

Saturday, Aug 16

Mandarin Superstars for Kids | 10:00 AM | Community United Methodist Church • Playful Mandarin class for ages 2–10 with music and games. RSVP encouraged. → Book your spot​

Family Fun Bicycle Ride | 10:00 AM | 93rd St & 34th Ave • Easy family ride on the Open Street. Helmets recommended. → Roll along​

Summer Pops Series: Travers Park, Calliope Brass | 12:00 PM | Travers Park • Brass quintet in the park. Fresh takes on favorites plus originals. → Catch the live set​

Sunday, Aug 17

El Salón del Mundo Open Mic Night | 3:00 PM | The World’s Borough Bookshop • Community open mic for writers and performers. Sign‑ups on site. → Add your name​

Summer Sundays: Jennifer Warton’s Bonegasm | 7:30 PM | Travers Park • Four trombones and rhythm section. Bring a chair or blanket. → Catch the live set​

Monday, Aug 18

34 Ave Bike classes – all ages | 6:00 PM | Jackson Heights • Free lessons for kids and adults on the Open Street. Run by 34th Avenue Open Streets Coalition. → Join the class​

Figure Drawing Session (with live model) / Sesión de Dibujo de Figura Humana | 7:00 PM | A.R.T. Shop • Short to long poses with a live model. Materials welcome. • $20 → Reserve your easel​

Nearby Events Around the Boroughs

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Couples Group Counseling | Monday, 8:00 PM | 57-02 Hoffman Dr • Encouraging group session for partners looking to strengthen their bond and improve communication. → See details​

NYC Restaurant Week • Last chance for prix-fixe deals this week (available until Aug 17) at The Queensboro, Romeo’s, and Fogo de Chão (Elmhurst)

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High-Fives & Local Love

Shout-out to the folks and brands keeping this newsletter going:

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And a virtual high-five to Arlene Gilbert for her support!

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Until next Tuesday… may your empanadas be crispy, your coffee be strong, and your subway transfer be painless.

Jonathan (JBS)

p.s. got any feedback, an event, a tip, or just a great local story? We’d love to hear it. Hit reply and let us know!