Rob Basch

Join as at the first annual Waterfront Gala!

Join us for a night of music, food, drinks, dancing, live auctions, and fun at our first annual waterfront gala on November 7, 2024!

Ticket price includes a cocktail menu, dinner, and open bar at Terrone.

This year's gala will honor TF Cornerstone for their ongoing support of our parks, and Millbank for their pro-bono legal assistance in opening the Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center.

We'll have a silent auction and a raffle for gift cards from local restaurants.

All proceeds go to support our waterfront parks.

The event will be held at Terrone on Thursday, November 7th, from 6-9pm.

You can buy tickets at hppc.givesmart.com, or reach out to jessica@hunterspointparks.org for sponsorship information and auction item donations.

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We're hiring a full-time programming and communications coordinator

The Hunters Point Parks Conservancy (HPPC) is a small 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to enhance and advocate for the green spaces and waterfront of Long Island City, Queens, and to ensure the parks remain an indispensable asset to the community.

The Conservancy works in Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter’s Point South, providing volunteers for park upkeep, funding occasional park maintenance projects, and hosting over 120 free events in the parks each year. We also manage a boathouse and environmental center. Free events include movie nights, fitness classes, environmental education and art classes, and a 6 week-long program of free children’s activities.

Position Overview

The Hunters Point Parks Conservancy is looking to hire a second full-time employee as Programming and Communications Coordinator to help with the Conservancy’s programmatic and communication efforts and allow us to significantly increase our activities at the Queens Landing Boathouse and Environmental Center, which opened in late 2023.

As this is a growing organization, the time spent on specific activities, and the activities themselves, are subject to change, and will shift depending upon the season. 

Job Responsibilities – Note: “Summer” refers to April – September, “Winter” is October - March

  • Environmental education programs (25%)

    • Help develop boathouse curriculum for field trips/afterschool programs/college partnerships

    • Assist in developing new programs 

    • Support work on partnership with outside orgs to develop and promote our new center

  • Park Programming & Stewardship (35% summer, 20% winter)

    • On-site program management - set up equipment, track attendance, interface with programming partners, talk to attendees

    • Help maintain website calendar and manage updates for rain delays etc

    • Help develop programs to increase populations served

    • Assist with quarterly large events 

    • Assist with volunteer gardening groups 

    • Help expand volunteer engagement with new residents and other targeted groups 

    • Support park stewardship projects (documenting issues in parks to potentially fund, helping identify problem areas that need more staff/HPPC attention, and supporting advocacy around these issues 

  • Communications & digital engagement (25%)

    • Social media

      • Develop a regular schedule, keep track of updates to Instagram algorithm, share programs, highlights from the parks, boathouse info, etc year-round, and track engagement

    • Assist with a short-form environmental education video series

    • Write blog posts to post to our website

    • Draft weekly newsletter to ~14,000 subscribers

    • Draft signage, digital flyers, and outreach materials for programs and events

    • Add park programs to NYC parks websites, local event calendars, etc

  • Fundraising (15% winter)

    • Develop and maintain database of local businesses to use for sponsorship asks etc

    • Support as needed for individual giving campaigns, collecting data for grants, and researching foundations  

  • Admin (15%)

    • Assist with filing permits and required reports to city agencies

    • Track metrics related to programming, digital engagement, etc to allow for more informed business development decisions 

    • Take minutes at board meetings

    • Help manage day-to-day running of boathouse

    • Help with other admin tasks as they arise 

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience

  • 1-2 years of experience working in parks, public programming, community engagement, or environmental education

  • Ability to multi-task and work on several projects at the same time

  • Ability to work independently and take ownership of projects

  • Comfort speaking in front of groups of people, interacting with strangers as well as partners, community leaders, government officials, etc.

  • Comfort interacting with members of the public in a friendly and professional manner

  • Strong writing and communication skills

  • A willingness to learn and teach oneself new skills

  • Experience with social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Constant Contact)

  • Must be able to lift 35 lbs

Additional Desired Qualifications:

  • Graphic design experience (particularly with Adobe Suite, or experience using Canva)

  • Experience editing short-form videos 

  • Experience with Long Island City or other Western Queens communities

  • Experience planning large-scale events

Compensation and Schedule 

This is a full-time, salaried position. The salary range for this position is $51,000 to $56,000, commensurate with skills and experience. 

HPPC offers new full-time employees 10 days paid vacation, 5 sick/personal days, 12 paid holidays, and a match for a retirement plan.

In the summer, the Programming and Communications Coordinator will be required to work Saturday mornings and three evenings/week to cover programs for most of the season, and to cover 6 weeks of Sunday programs. They will also need to be flexible to cover approximately 5-10 large annual events on weekends, and to occasionally cover evening and weekend programs during the winter season. 

HPPC employees work at Hunter’s Point South Park, Gantry Plaza State Park, and from the Queens Landing Boathouse at 57-28 2nd St Unit 105, Long Island City, NY 11101. This position requires attendance at programs and events, but allows work from home on days there are no park activities. 

Hunters Point Parks Conservancy is committed to workplace diversity and inclusion. It is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, age, religion, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, political orientation or any other characteristic protected by federal state or local law.

To Apply:

Please send your resume and cover letter as one PDF document to info@hunterspointparks.org with “Programming and Communications Coordinator” and your name in the subject line.

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Announcing the 2023 'Bulbfest' Photo Contest! (& Official Rules)

Over the last several years, the Hunters Point Parks Conservancy has planted over 60,000 bulbs on the LIC waterfront through our ‘LIC Bulbfest’ planting events each Fall. Thanks to the hard work of our many volunteers, Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter’s Point South Park are abloom each Spring with thousands of daffodils, tulips, alliums, and more.

This year’s mild winter means many flowers are already blooming in the parks! We are opening our photo contest now, but it will run through the spring blooming of the bulbs and cherry blossoms.

To celebrate this Spring, HPPC is launching a ‘Bulbfest’ photo contest! Participants will have the opportunity to submit an entry to the contest during the duration of the spring bloom for a chance to win prizes!

How to enter: Participants can enter by posting their picture(s) on Instagram, tagging HPPC (@licwaterfront), and including the Hashtag #LICBulbfest. If they do not have Instagram, pictures can be submitted to info@hunterspointparks.org.

Photos must contain bloomed bulbs (tulips, daffodils, alliums, crocuses) in Gantry Plaza State Park and/or Hunter’s Point South Park and photos must have been taken from the parks in 2023.

Participants who submit photos to the contest provide HPPC non-commercial license to use the images in perpetuity in future publications and promotions for relevant Conservancy purposes.

The contest opens on March 23rd and will run until May 1st. HPPC reserves the right to extend the contest later into spring, pending a delayed or extended spring bloom. Winners will be decided on by a panel of HPPC board members.

Prizes:

1st place: $50 gift card to a local restaurant.

2nd place: $25 gift card to a local restaurant.

Both winning photos will also be featured in the newsletter and on social media.



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Announcing the 2022 'Bulbfest' Photo Contest! (& Official Rules)

Over the last several years, the Hunters Point Parks Conservancy has planted over 45,000 bulbs on the LIC waterfront through our ‘LIC Bulbfest’ planting events each Fall. Thanks to the hard work of our many volunteers, Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter’s Point South Park are abloom each Spring with thousands of daffodils, tulips, alliums, and more.

To celebrate this Spring, HPPC is launching a ‘Bulbfest’ photo contest! Participants will have the opportunity to submit an entry to the contest during the duration of the spring bloom for a chance to win prizes!

How to enter: Participants can enter by posting their picture(s) on Instagram, tagging HPPC (@licwaterfront), and including the Hashtag #LICBulbfest. If they do not have Instagram, pictures can be submitted to info@hunterspointparks.org.

Photos must contain bloomed bulbs (tulips, daffodils, alliums, crocuses) in Gantry Plaza State Park and/or Hunter’s Point South Park and photos must have been taken from the parks in 2022.

Participants who submit photos to the contest provide HPPC non-commercial license to use the images in perpetuity in future publications and promotions for relevant Conservancy purposes.

The contest opens on March 25st and will run until April 24th. HPPC reserves the right to extend the contest later into spring, pending a delayed or extended spring bloom. Winners will be decided on by a panel of HPPC board members and announced on May 9th.

Prizes:

1st place: $50 gift card to a local restaurant.

2nd place: $25 gift card to a local restaurant.

Both winning photos will also be featured in the newsletter and on social media.



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Farewell Summer 2021!

How has Summer already come to an end!? We had an unforgettable time this summer with all of our partners and attendees as we were able to be back at the park again! It was another successful season highlighted by our fitness programs (Zumba, Yoga, Barre3, H2shO) and Watercolors on the Waterfront events. The duration of our summer program ran for about 12 weeks and included hundreds of registrations! There were many new and familiar faces who were all excited about the return of in-park events, as were we! Thank you to everyone who attended our events and for your support and patience as we transitioned back to normal these past few months. A special thanks to our sponsors Weill Cornell Medicine - Long Island City, TF Cornerstone, and LIC Dental Associates.

HPPC's signature movie series, CinemaLIC, sponsored by Nest Seekers, returned to Hunter's Point South Park this year as well. We kicked off the program on Saturday, July 31st with Disney’s The Lion King (2019) which drew over 500 spectators. We also showed Raiders of the Lost Ark on August 26th and Jaws on September 12th. Thank you to the 1,250 people who joined us to watch these films at the most scenic movie theatre anywhere. Movies began just after sundown and families and friends gathered on the oval for an action-packed night!

Check out some event highlights below!

Stay tuned for another great season on the waterfront in 2022 - make sure you are signed up for our newsletter so you don’t miss out on any events.

Yoga on the Waterfront with Joy Chen.

Yoga on the Waterfront with Joy Chen.

Barre on the Waterfront with barre3 LIC.

Barre on the Waterfront with barre3 LIC.

Zumba on the Waterfront with Laura Wagner.

Zumba on the Waterfront with Laura Wagner.

H2shO on the Waterfront with Erwin Gonzalez.

H2shO on the Waterfront with Erwin Gonzalez.

Watercolors on the Waterfront with Donna Levinstone.

Watercolors on the Waterfront with Donna Levinstone.

CinemaLIC movie night at Hunter’s Point South Park, showing The Lion King (2019).

CinemaLIC movie night at Hunter’s Point South Park, showing The Lion King (2019).

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Recapping the 6th Annual LIC Waterfront 5K

Our 6th Annual LIC Waterfront 5K occurred this past Saturday, September 18th and was a huge success! Runners gathered in Hunters Point South Park early Saturday morning to pick up their shirts and bib number as they awaited the start of the race. There were 1,100 registered participants, 150 of whom were kids that participated in the Shibley Day Camp Center Blvd. Kids Dash! It was a wonderful turnout this year as we were able to hold the race in-person after being virtual last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic; people young and old truly showed their support for their LIC community.

The 3.1 mile course began at Center Blvd and Borden Ave., taking runners and walkers through the streets of LIC and looping back through Gantry Plaza State Park to the finish line at Hunter’s Point South Park. Thank you to our race day organizers Woodside-Sunnyside Runners, Run LIC, and all of the outstanding volunteers and our sponsors. To view a full list of the race day sponsors please visit our website for more information.

Full race results, including pictures of each runner crossing the finish line can be found here. Also, be sure to check out our photos from the event - see if you can find yourself!

Check out a few of the race highlights below!

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The day couldn’t have been more perfect, thank you all again for showing up! HPPC hopes to see you all at the next one!

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Meet H2shO™️ Instructor Erwin Gonzalez

THIS SUMMER, HPPC’S FREE H2shO™️ CLASSES, LED BY ERWIN GONZALEZ ARE RETURNING TO HUNTER’S POINT SOUTH PARK! FOR THREE NIGHTS - SEPTEMBER 13, 20TH, AND SEPTEMBER 27TH - AT 6:00PM ERWIN WILL TEACH HIS BEGINNER H2shO™️ CLASS IN THE PARK. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED, PLEASE MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUR CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO REGISTER.

First off, tell us your name, where you're from and what you do. How long have you been an instructor?

My name is Erwin González. I am a 25 year fitness professional. I am both  a group fitness instructor and a personal trainer. 

How'd you get into H2shO™️

Decades old militant slogans like “feel the burn” and “just do it” do not significantly move the needle on fitness motivation. The fact is 80% of US citizens do not consider themselves exercisers. I wanted to build a bridge, a communal fitness experience that centered FUN. One where people would want to exercise, not feel as if they should.

I reimagined exercise through the lens of a Broadway show using a multimodal approach. Simply put, by pairing a concept, a song, a pop cultural zeitgeist with the fundamentals of science, strength training, and movement, we can create neurological changes and fundamentally change behavior. Happiness is the gateway to better health.

After years of development, I introduced an aqua aerobics program named H2shO™️ (portmanteau H2O + show), think “Less boot, MORE CAMP.”  It was very popular! The pool makes for an inclusive environment immediately and a perfect fitness entry point. The shO was building momentum, was just added to permanent schedule of EQUINOX, luxury health clubs when the pandemic occurred. 

Thankfully I discovered the shO’s H2 (Happiness & Health) teaching model is highly adaptable out of the water as well. Covid-19 spurred the evolution of H2shO™️ LIVE!, a virtual class platform on the BAND app, and a land class named “Strength & shO Tunes.” I have since been invited to teach for students at Fordham University and beyond. And we will be returning to EQUINOX late Summer.  

What's your favorite thing about what you do?

I love the connections, the relationships formed, planting seeds of hope for increased health and personal enrichment. 

How is teaching in the park different from teaching in a studio? 

In exchange for the freedom to create in an open space, you have to completely surrender control. From the weather to various park rules to crowd control, you must do your homework daily so you are better equipped to address unpredictability. 

When you're not teaching, what is your favorite thing to do in the parks?

When fitness is your job, I value chilling out. Whether sitting, eating, walking casually , simply being in a beautiful natural environment is a beautiful thing.

Lastly, how do you motivate/energize yourself to be active when you're feeling lazy?

The last year has been difficult, the pandemic environment is still fluid and like everyone else I am discovering the new normal. A lazy day isn’t equal to being indolent. Be gentle on yourself today so you can come back stronger tomorrow.

You can find out more about Erwin’s classes or message Erwin González/H2shO™️ Fitness classes via-

H2shO™️ Fitness on the BAND app: H2shO.com

Instagram, Facebook & Twitter: @jointheshO

LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erwin-gonzalez-9a140a15

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We're Hiring! Apply for HPPC's Manager of Programming and Development Position

To apply for this position, please email your resume and cover letter as one PDF document to info@hunterspointparks.org with “Manager of Programming and Development” and your name in the subject line no later than Wednesday, September 15th.

Job Description: Manager of Programming and Development

The Hunters Point Parks Conservancy (HPPC) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to enhance and advocate for the green spaces and waterfront of Long Island City, Queens, and to ensure the parks remain an indispensable asset to the community.

The Conservancy works in Gantry Plaza State Park and Hunter’s Point South, providing volunteers for park upkeep, funding occasional park maintenance projects, and hosting over 100 free events in the parks each year. Free events include movie nights, concerts, fitness classes, art classes, and a 6 week-long program of free children’s activities.

The start date for this position is immediate.

Position Overview

The Hunters Point Parks Conservancy is looking to hire a full-time Manager of Programming and Development to lead the Conservancy’s programmatic, development, and communication efforts.

As this is a small and growing organization, the time spent on specific activities, and the activities themselves, are subject to change, and will shift depending upon the season.

Job Responsibilities – Note: “Summer” refers to April – September, “Winter” is October - March

Fundraising (Summer 20% / Winter 40%) - Lead HPPC fundraising efforts, in collaboration with board of directors and board fundraising committee, including, but not limited to:

  • Government grants – application, contract registration, reimbursement paperwork, etc.

  • Corporate giving – identifying partners, pitching program sponsorships, maintaining relationships

  • Individual giving – maintain CRM system (Network for Good), create and carry out protocols for individual donor engagement, cultivation, and solicitation, create and carry out 2 digital fundraising campaigns each year (winter and summer)

  • Special events – lead planning for HPPC’s 5K fundraiser

Free Community Events (Summer 30% / Winter 15%) - Lead HPPC’s robust free programming

  • In partnership with board programming committee, determine which community programs HPPC will offer

  • Manage logistics of all in-person and virtual programs, including applying for permits, creating and managing Zoom rooms, tracking attendance and registration lists, promoting events, posting information on HPPC website, social media, and website, etc.

  • Oversee seasonal program staff, as necessary

Communications (Summer 15% / Winter 15%) - Handle all organizational promotional and communication efforts

  • Send weekly email newsletter to ~9,000 subscribers

  • Create interesting and engaging social media and blog content, including occasional social media campaigns

  • Track statistics on social media and newsletter reach and growth

  • Work with board communications committee to facilitate special communications projects, including outreach to local residents

  • Create press releases and handle press outreach

  • Create pitch decks and other outreach materials as necessary

  • Lead creation of HPPC’s annual report with contracted graphic designer

 Volunteer Program Management (Summer 20% / Winter 0%)

  • Oversee HPPC community volunteer gardening program in partnership with board park maintenance committee

    • Coordinate with NYC & NYS Parks Departments to schedule upwards of 50 volunteer gardening days every year

    • Create and carry out protocols to ensure positive volunteer experiences

    • Handle event logistics, including registration sites, pre- and post-event communications, volunteer check-in, etc. as well as promotion

    • Track and report on program metrics

    • Track tools (including gloves and vests) and purchase additional supplies as necessary

  • Oversee HPPC corporate volunteer gardening program

    • Identify and solicit potential corporate gardening partners

    • Coordinate with NYC and/or NYS Parks to plan days and handle other day-of logistics

    • Handle communications/logistics with corporate partner, including sending instructions for volunteer days, sending invoices, collecting payment, etc.

Park Maintenance Projects (Summer 5% / Winter 5%) – (As needed) Carry out special projects in Hunter’s Point South Park, Gantry Plaza State Park, and/or around the neighborhood

  • Working with park maintenance committee, identify areas where HPPC can contribute positively to the parks or surrounding area

  • Facilitate dialogue between HPPC and NYC Park, NYS Parks, and other relevant organizations, such at DOT

  • As needed, seek funding (i.e. via grants) for special projects

  • Make purchases approved by HPPC board for the parks and coordinate delivery/install

Administrative responsibilities (Summer 10% / Winter 25%) - including, but not limited to:

  • Schedule and lead board meeting and committee meetings – including creating and sharing agendas, taking minutes and following up on action items

  • Act as main point of contact for HPPC board of directors, keeping them apprised of projects, milestones, events, etc.

  • Review organization financial documents, create and track budgets

  • As necessary, lead the hiring and onboarding process for additional staff

  • Assist in onboarding process for new board members

  • Assist in creation and review of organization policies, such as bylaws, board requirements, board member nomination process, etc.

  • Maintain organization website

 Represent HPPC positively at public events and network on behalf of the organization

  • Participate in relevant meetings, events, coalition, etc. and positively represent HPPC, as well as bring knowledge and best practices back to the organization when possible

  • Speak on behalf of the organization when needed

 

Location & Schedule

This is a partly remote position, with frequent travel to Hunter’s Point South Park and/or Gantry Plaza State Park as required for HPPC events. Work from home is allowed for all other times. Access to a shared office space can be provided if requested.

At least 40 hours per week is expected. Beyond hours required for events and meetings, hours will be flexible and variable and the individual will be able to set their own hours, within reason. Evening and weekend work will be required.

 

Required Qualifications:

  • 3-5 years of experience in non-profit management, community engagement, fundraising, event management, or related field

  • Ability to juggle multiple projects simultaneously and impeccable organizational skills

  • Self-motivated and driven with the ability to carry out complicated projects with minimal direct supervision as well as a “no task too small” and “no task too big” attitude

  • Comfortability speaking in front of groups of people, interacting with strangers as well as partners, community leaders, government officials, etc.

  • Strong writing and communication skills

  • A willingness to learn and teach oneself new skills

  • Experience with social media (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Constant Contact)

Additional Desired Qualifications:

  • Graphic design experience (particularly with Adobe Suite)

  • Familiarity with public-private park partnerships and/or park management

  • Experience with Long Island City or other Western Queens communities

  • Experience planning large-scale events

  • Experience working with boards of directors and/or leading board meetings

 

To Apply:

Please send your resume and cover letter as one PDF document to info@hunterspointparks.org with “Manager of Programming and Development” and your name in the subject line no later than Wednesday, September 15th.

 

Note: Job description is not all inclusive. Hunters Point Parks Conservancy reserves the right to amend this job description at any time. Hunters Point Parks Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.

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We Had a Blast at Summer Kids 2021!

Another year of ‘Summer Kids’ is in the books! After nearly two years of not being able to operate any in-person events, it was an awesome six weeks being able to gather in the park again for our many interactive kids programs. A special thank you to all of our partners for joining us this summer and putting on awesome shows as we returned to the parks. Also, thank you to our sponsors, Hunter's Point South Living, NYC Ferry, ProHealth Dental, and the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development. Lastly, thank you to all who registered for our events and attended the return of our in-park events! HPPC appreciates all of your unwavering support!

Our events this summer were at limited capacity and almost every one filled up as soon as they launched! We even had to add a waitlist for those hoping to snatch someone’s forfeited ticket. We had a limit of approximately 25-30 kids (varying by location), with some people who just so happened to walk past and watch the show from afar. Safe to say, all of our programs were a “must-see” for those living in LIC.

In total, we held 28 events and reached over 600 children. Check out some highlights in the photos below!

The best way to start your morning is with Tuesday morning Yoga with our partners Yogi Beans!

The best way to start your morning is with Tuesday morning Yoga with our partners Yogi Beans!

Wednesday morning art class with Art Strong NYC! We loved seeing all the paintings and drawings the kids created!

Wednesday morning art class with Art Strong NYC! We loved seeing all the paintings and drawings the kids created!

Our last three Friday’s were spent dancing and singing with Tots Sing & Play! Bubbles are always fun!

Our last three Friday’s were spent dancing and singing with Tots Sing & Play! Bubbles are always fun!

Andy & Suzanna always know how to entertain a crowd! Every class was a blast!

Andy & Suzanna always know how to entertain a crowd! Every class was a blast!

Who doesn’t love a good puppet show? Wonderspark Puppets knows how to put on the best show for kids!

Who doesn’t love a good puppet show? Wonderspark Puppets knows how to put on the best show for kids!

Joe the Magic Man Show drew in quite the crowd this summer; the kids loved his magic and animals, too!

Joe the Magic Man Show drew in quite the crowd this summer; the kids loved his magic and animals, too!

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Meet Zumba Instructor Laura Wagner

THIS SUMMER, HPPC’S FREE ZUMBA CLASSES, LED BY LAURA WAGNER ARE RETURNING TO HUNTER’S POINT SOUTH PARK! FOR THREE NIGHTS - AUGUST 23RD, 30TH, AND SEPTEMBER 9TH - AT 6:30PM LAURA WILL TEACH HER BEGINNER ZUMBA CLASS IN THE PARK. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED, PLEASE MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUR CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO REGISTER.

Laura currently teaches in-person Zumba and STRONG Nation (HIIT) classes every Tuesday at Next Level Fitness located at 992 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11221. More information can be found at the links below on her social media channels and Zumba Instructor Page.

Alternatively, you can find a list of upcoming Zumba classes on Laura’s Zumba Instructor Page here: Laura Wagner Zumba Instructor Page

READ ON TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LAURA AND HER PASSION FOR ZUMBA!

First off, quick background info. Tell us your name, where you're from and what you do.

My name is Laura Wagner. I grew up in the Midwest and New York City has been my home since 2008. Fitness is my PASSION! I’m a 3rd generation fitness professional, and the first to take the family talent to the Big Apple.

How'd you get into Zumba? How long have you been a Zumba instructor?

I fell in love with Zumba 11 years ago during my travels, and I began teaching after a trip to Honduras, where I danced with Latin locals and connected with their passion, music, and culture. Zumba was a “gateway drug” for me, as it opened my eyes to the incredible world of health and wellness, including additional fitness formats (HIIT, strength, abs) and wellness topics (nutrition, coaching, etc.). Zumba is where the magic happens.

What's your favorite thing about what you do?

What I love about teaching Zumba (and Group Fitness in general) is that it gives me a platform to connect with people from all walks of life and, for even the briefest of moments, put a smile on their faces. To be successful in Zumba, you need to be in an environment of pure positivity and as a result, stress and worries melt away, allowing you to escape into a state of pure JOY. This experience is outside of yourself and in a way, larger than life. As a student you can’t help but leave feeling happy, and as an instructor you can’t help but feel proud of what you’ve accomplished for others in a short 60 minutes.

 How is teaching in the park different from teaching in a studio?

Dancing in the park is a different experience than in a studio. I highly recommend the outdoors! In a studio environment, students might be tempted to spend time analyzing themselves in the mirror and forget to let go and have fun. Did you know studies show that being outside makes people happier? Nature is a natural stress reliever, and it helps people feel connected, while providing some much-needed Vitamin D, along with sweeping city views! What could be better? 

When you're not teaching, what is your favorite thing to do in the parks?

When I'm not teaching my favorite thing to do is be active! Sometimes I’ll take a walk in the park while sipping my morning espresso to collect my thoughts. Other times I’ll just hop on my bike and see how many miles I can ride! As long as I’m moving outside in the parks, I’m happy.

Lastly, how do you motivate/energize yourself to be active when you're feeling lazy?

Mind over matter. JUST DO IT. We all struggle with feeling lazy at times. In my personal experience, I ALWAYS feel better after I’ve moved my body in one way or another. Intuitively I remember how amazing it feels to get up and walk to get my coffee, or simply take a leisurely stroll in the park. (Even when I’m tired.) So, I just do it because the delayed gratification is worth the effort.

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Humans of LIC - Evelyn Knight-Rodriguez

Hunter’s Point Parks Conservancy is hosting a new series called “Humans of LIC” to highlight our volunteers, park-goers, and park workers. We want to show why they make our Park so great. It is because of them, that we are all able to enjoy the beautiful park each and every day.

Today, we are continuing our series with an Associate Park Service Worker at Hunter’s Point South Park, Evelyn Knight-Rodriguez. We are happy to share her experience and have her be a part of the “Humans of LIC” campaign. Keep reading to find out more about Evelyn’s journey with us!

Full name

Evelyn Knight-Rodriguez

Title/Involvement with the parks/HPPC 

I am an Associate Park Service Worker (APSW).  I am responsible for the cleanliness, safety and maintenance of Hunters Point South Park (HPS).

 How long have you been involved here?

I have worked at HPS since April of 2015. I have been with the NYC Parks Department since 2012.

 Why is this park important to you? 

HPS is important to me because I see the joy that adults, children and pets experience while playing in a safe and clean environment. One in which they can feel like they're at home.

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 What is your favorite place in the park?

My favorite area in the park is the observation deck with its wide view of Manhattan.  You can see the Williamsburg Bridge on the left to the 59th Street Bridge on the right.  Just beautiful.

Is there anything you want park visitors to know? 

We want our visitors to know how much we love this park.  While we keep the park safe and clean, we also have wonderful gardeners that work tirelessly to make it look beautiful!”


Thank you, Evelyn, for your dedication to our parks! We are grateful to have you be apart of the HPPC community to encourage others to appreciate and respect our beautiful waterfront! You are one of the many “Humans of LIC” that deserve to be recognized for your commitment to the environment and to us!

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Humans of LIC - Dorrette Campbell

Hunter’s Point Parks Conservancy is hosting a new series called “Humans of LIC” to highlight our volunteers, park-goers, and park workers. We want to show why they make our Park so great. It is because of them, that we are all able to enjoy the beautiful park each and every day.

Today, we are continuing our series with a wonderful Parks Department supervisor, Dorrette Campbell. We are happy to share her experience and have her be a part of the “Humans of LIC” campaign. Keep reading to find out more about Dorette’s journey with us!

Full name

Dorrette Campbell.

Title/Involvement with the parks/HPPC

I am a level 1 Parks Supervisor.

How long have you been involved here?

I have been here at HPS since 2018. However, with the Parks Department since 2011.

What is your favorite place in the park?

I have a few favorite places  in the park. The Observation deck; it transports me to the Mediterranean,  it feels like I'm on the deck of a ship away from the rat race of the City - so close but yet so far. I am captivated by the Sky lights of Manhattan and the backdrop of the Greenery of Hunters Point South Park .

My second favorite is the Moon face. It takes me to the Caribbean. If it is your first time there, it is like you are walking into a little pocket of surprise, which is beautiful and tranquil with the sun-kissed water and boats sailing by. While planes and helicopters take off then come back to land.  I don't think anywhere else is as beautiful as our piece of paradise.

Third favorite is the beautiful flowers throughout the Park every season gives us hope and peace. Especially during the past year where we all went through and still face Covid-19.

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Why is this park important to you? 

This Park is important to me on so many levels,  as a Gardener it warms my heart that a community can come together to educate both the young and old. Along with motivating and transforming the canvas that is our park, leaving everyone to be able to appreciate the masterpiece that we have.

Is there anything you want park visitors to know?

Our park is an ecosystem that we want to secure and protect. When park visitors come to our park, we'd like for them to think about their actions and how it affects our ecosystem, so I often say take a picture. It will last a whole lot longer than picking out the beautiful flowers. So next time, come out and volunteer in our park. Each day is a new experience . God bless.”

Thank you, Dorrette, for your dedication to our parks! We are grateful to have you be apart of the HPPC community to encourage others to appreciate and respect our beautiful waterfront! You are one of the many “Humans of LIC” that deserve to be recognized for your commitment to the environment and to us!


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Meet Barre Instructor Lisa Pantaleo

THIS SUMMER, HPPC’S FREE BARRE CLASSES, LED BY LISA PANTALEO ARE RETURNING TO HUNTER’S POINT SOUTH PARK! FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE MONDAY NIGHTS - AUGUST 2ND, 9TH, AND 16TH - AT 6:30PM LISA WILL TEACH HER BEGINNER BARRE CLASS IN THE PARK. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED, PLEASE MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUR CALENDAR OF EVENTS FOR MORE DETAILS AND TO REGISTER.

FOR INFORMATION ON OTHER CLASSES LISA TEACHES WITH HER STUDIO, BARRE3, CHECK OUT THEIR WEBSITE HERE AND FOLLOW THEM ON INSTAGRAM @barre3lic.

READ ON TO LEARN MORE ABOUT LISA AND HER PASSION FOR BARRE!

First off, quick background info. Tell us your name, where you're from and what you do.

Lisa Pantaleo, Queens NY, owner of barre3 Long Island City

How'd you get into Barre? How long have you been a barre instructor?

I found barre3 on Instagram while looking for a new workout routine to do prior to heading to my 9-5 as a graphic designer. I fell in love with barre3's holistic approach to fitness and beautiful brand aesthetic. I knew I needed to bring a barre3 studio to my hometown of Queens and I've been teaching for over 4 years now!

What's your favorite thing about what you do?

I love connecting with clients and truly making the studio feel like their second home!

How is teaching in the park different from teaching in a studio?

Oh, it's way different! Teaching outside is a ton of fun...moving big in the sunshine and feeling the breeze on your skin during breath work is amazing. It of course comes with its challenges too when it comes to controlling music volumes, uneven surfaces, etc.

When you're not teaching, what is your favorite thing to do in the parks?

Take walks with my husband and son :)

Lastly, how do you motivate/energize yourself to be active when you're feeling lazy?

Put on some fun music and remind myself how amazing I'm going to feel after!

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Humans of LIC - Kevin Selig

Hunter’s Point Parks Conservancy is beginning a new series called “Humans of LIC” to highlight our volunteers, park-goers, and park workers. We want to show why they make our Park so great. It is because of them, that we are all able to enjoy the beautiful park each and every day.

Today, we are continuing our series with a notable Park Director for Gantry Plaza State Park, Kevin Selig. We are happy to share his experience and have him be a part of the “Humans of LIC” campaign. Keep reading to find out more about Kevin’s journey with us!

“Full Name

Kevin Selig

Title/Involvement with the parks/HPPC:

Park Director for Gantry Plaza State Park

How long have you been involved here?

I started working here at Gantry Plaza just about 4 months ago.  Before that, I spent about 8 years working in Queens for NYC Parks.

What is your favorite place in the park?

My favorite place in Gantry Plaza State Park would be the red Adirondack chairs between the Great Lawn and the East River. Sitting back in the chairs and watching the world go by is great way to relax, plus they remind me a little of my childhood home in Upstate, NY.

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Why is this park important to you?

Living nearby, Gantry has been a great spot for me to hang out with friends and family. As the Director for the park, it's very rewarding every day to walk the park and see all the great work the NYS Parks staff does here in Gantry to make it such a great place for everyone to enjoy.

Is there anything you want park visitors to know?

Gantry Plaza State Park is a wonderful space for rest and relaxation, but we need everyone’s help to keep it clean and safe for everyone to use. It's a huge help to us when park-goers carry out their trash and follow all park rules.”

Thank you Kevin for your dedication to protecting our parks! We are grateful to have you be apart of the HPPC community. You are one of the many “Humans of LIC” that deserve to be recognized for your commitment to the waterfront and to us!

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Humans of LIC - Stephen Allen

Hunter’s Point Parks Conservancy is beginning a new series called “Humans of LIC” to highlight our volunteers, park-goers, and park workers. We want to show why they make our Park so great. It is because of them, that we are all able to enjoy the beautiful park each and every day.

Today, we are continuing our series with a wonderful Gantry Plaza State Park complex complex manager, Stephen Allen. We are happy to share his experience and have him be a part of the “Humans of LIC” campaign. Keep reading to find out more about Stephen’s journey with us!

Full Name: Stephen Allen

Title: Complex Manager

 How long have you worked here?

I have 19 years with NYS Parks and 9 years have been at Gantry plaza

What is your favorite place in the park?

Hammock’s, it reminds me of being in the Caribbean beach taking an afternoon nap

Why is this park important to you?

Parks in general are an extension of our home/apartment. Because of that, we can enjoy nature- this is what give’s me satisfaction in keeping an ecosystem alive.

Is there anything you want park visitors to know?

The community is the lifeline of parks. As much importance they give to the park, the more beautiful the park will be.  Do not treat our parks like a garbage can that we don’t change.  Come and enjoy the view of nature and skyline but leave it better than the way you found it.”

Thank you Stephen for your dedication to our parks! We are grateful to have you be apart of the HPPC community. You are one of the many “Humans of LIC” that deserve to be recognized for your commitment to the environment and to us!

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Humans of LIC - Katherine Poulos

Hunter’s Point Parks Conservancy is beginning a new series called “Humans of LIC” to highlight our volunteers, park-goers, and park workers. We want to show why they make our Park so great. It is because of them, that we are all able to enjoy the beautiful park each and every day.

Today, we are continuing our series with a wonderful Gantry Plaza State Park horticultural technician, Katherine Poulos. We are happy to share her experience and have her be a part of the “Humans of LIC” campaign. Keep reading to find out more about Katherine’s journey with us!

“Full Name 

Katherine Poulos

Title/Involvement with the parks/HPPC 

Horticultural Technician at Gantry Plaza State Park

How long have you been involved here? 

I’ve been working at Gantry Plaza State Park for 1 year and 5 months

What is your favorite place in the park?

My favorite place in the park is under the red maple trees on the Peninsula. These trees are interesting to look at all year, with beautiful red twigs in the winter, bright red flowers in the spring, and bright red leaves in the fall.  I love this location for bird watching, as cardinals and warblers are attracted to maple trees for food and shelter. The location is especially great in the summer when I’m looking for some much-needed shade.

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Why is this park important to you? 

From working with volunteers and interacting with patrons, I have come to understand how much Gantry Plaza State Park means as a green space to the Long Island City community. It’s important for me to continue maintaining the plants in the park with HPPC so community members have beautiful trees that provide shade for family picnics, flowers that attract butterflies and birds so visitors can learn about wildlife in our education programs, magnificent ornamental grasses that protect the soil and serve as a great backdrop for photos for special events, and much more!

Is there anything you want park visitors to know?

We have over 30 species of plants in Gantry Plaza State Park, including over 20 species of trees. I encourage visitors to take a moment in between looking at the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline to notice all the plants in the park, including coneflower, catmint, river birch and bayberry, that are providing services to both humans and wildlife like protecting the soil, cleaning the air, and providing shelter.”

Thank you Katherine for your dedication to our parks! It is greatly appreciated to have you be apart of the HPPC community. You are one of the many “Humans of LIC” that deserve to be recognized for your commitment to the environment and to us!

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Meet Yoga Instructor Joy Chen

This Summer, HPPC’s free yoga classes, led by Joy Chen are returning to Hunter’s Point South Park! For three consecutive Monday nights - July 12, 19, and 26 - at 6:30pm Joy will teaching her beginner yoga class in the park. Registration is required, please make sure to check our calendar of events for more details and to register.

For information on other classes Joy teaches with her studio, Cosmic Fit Club, check out their website here and follow them on Instagram @cosmicfitclub.

Read on to learn more about Joy and her passion for yoga!

Photo by Clifford Toy

First off, quick background info! Tell us your name, where you’re from, and what you do.

My name is Joy Chen. I was born in Manhattan's Chinatown on the Lower East Side, attended college in Ithaca New York and now live in Queens. I opened a yoga and movement studio in Long Island City in 2017 and currently teach in-person classes and fitness events outdoors and live streaming classes at https://video.cosmicfitclub.com

How’d you get into yoga? How long have you been a yoga instructor?

I first got exposed to yoga during college when I took a few classes as a way to deal with stress. After college I pursued yoga more seriously because I loved the feeling of flexibility and strength it gave me. I completed my 500 hour teaching training at Yogaworks in 2011 and have been teaching yoga professionally ever since!

What’s your favorite thing about what you do?

My favorite thing about teaching yoga is serving students of all ages and abilities and helping them restore greater mobility and health in their bodies. The flow of different yoga poses can cultivate physical well-being as well as help students focus better and tap into their mental energy. It's a beautiful thing. Yoga brings together movement and breath and can also be so much fun! My students inspire and challenge me. I regularly teach runners, office workers, rock climbers, teachers, elderly retirees, even mommy and baby yoga and acroyoga.

How is teaching in the park different than teaching in a yoga studio?

Teaching in the park is definitely more challenging than teaching in a yoga studio because there are a lot more external noise and environmental conditions that need to be actively managed. For instance, I've had to project my voice to be heard over the sound of dogs barking or helicopters flying. In addition, there are usually much larger crowds in the park compared to the studio. I can have upwards of 70 people taking class together in the park! But it's also really lovely to practice yoga outdoors in the grass and fresh air and watch the sunset. Best of all the park offers free yoga which makes it much more accessible to the general public.

When you’re not teaching, what is your favorite thing to do in the parks?

When I'm not teaching my favorite thing to do at Hunters Point South park is find a shady spot to practice acroyoga with my boyfriend and eat birria tacos from one of the the taco trucks on the waterfront and watch the sunset.

Lastly, how do you motivate/energize yourself to be active when you’re feeling lazy?

I listen to my body but when I'm feeling too lazy to travel to a class or go to the gym I motivate myself by doing some simple seated stretches like sitting in a cross legged position and raising my arms overhead and arching my back in a chair. If you have more space you can also try standing stretches which takes a little more muscular effort but you can do warrior 2 pose or a high lunge anywhere-- even on the subway! Running outside on your own-- preferably in a forest where there are a lot of trees and meandering pathways at a slow pace can also be super energizing. Sometimes you also just need a healthy snack. For the summer I like to eat a lot of watermelon and drink ice cold pineapple juice mixed with coconut flavored seltzer water! Try it and then pack up your yoga mat and join me for some free Monday night yoga classes on the waterfront July 12, 19 and 26 at 6:30pm!



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Humans of LIC - Carey Ngai

Hunter’s Point Parks Conservancy is beginning a new series called “Humans of LIC” to highlight our volunteers, park-goers, and park workers. We want to show why they make our Park so great. It is because of them, that we are all able to enjoy the beautiful park each and every day.

Today, we are continuing our series with a persistent and reliable HPPC volunteer, Carey Ngai. We are happy to share his experience and have him be a part of the “Humans of LIC” campaign. Keep reading to find out more about Carey’s journey with us!

“Full Name            

Carey Ngai

Title/Involvement with the parks/HPPC   

Volunteer 

How long have you been involved here?

5 Years 

Why do you volunteer?

It is important to me that the park is kept clean and beautiful for all to come and enjoy the park.

Carey Ngai.jpg

What is your favorite place in the park?

The wooded peninsula area adjacent to the new library.

Why is this park important to you?

I live in the area and frequently walk along the water in both parks and the new addition

Is there anything you want park visitors to know?

The sunset views are spectacular

Additional comments/experiences you’d like to share (optional)

Movie nights  are a lot of fun and the various live music venues are entertaining”

 

Thank you Carey for your years of service to our parks! It is greatly appreciated to have you be apart of the HPPC community. You are one of the many “Humans of LIC” that deserve to be recognized for your commitment to the environment and to us!

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Humans of LIC - Stephen Murphy

Hunter’s Point Parks Conservancy is beginning a new series called “Humans of LIC” to highlight our volunteers, park-goers, and park workers. We want to show why they make our Park so great. It is because of them, that we are all able to enjoy the beautiful park each and every day.

Today, we are continuing our series with a feature on a frequent, and loyal HPPC volunteer, Stephen Murphy. We are happy to share his experience and have him be a part of the “Humans of LIC” campaign. Keep reading to find out more about Stephen’s journey with us!

“Full Name

STEPHEN MURPHY

Title/Involvement with the parks/HPPC

Volunteer

How long have you been involved here?

I started volunteering about a year ago.

Why do you volunteer?

I like being helpful.  I've been volunteering in one form or another for many years.  It gives me a sense of usefulness and accomplishment.

Stephen Murphy.jpg

What is your favorite place in the park?

I've got two favorite spots. My first is the Red Adirondack Chairs and the lawn behind them in Gantry State Park. My other is the seating area all the way down in Hunters Point Park South, the grassy hill area next to 57th Ave. There is an unobstructed view of the East River with the city as a backdrop.

Why is this park important to you?

Oh, It's so important to me because it is nature right outside my door.  I grew up in Ireland with nature all around me and I miss that. I like being close to water, plants of all kinds, and birds. I love birds.

Is there anything you want park visitors to know?

Yes --Stay Away!!  (Just kidding)

Come enjoy the park, and everything it has to offer.  But, PLEASE leave it in the same or better shape than you found it.

Additional comments/experiences you’d like to share (optional)

The Park staff and the HPPC are brilliant, and I've appreciated the chance to meet fellow volunteers while digging in the dirt.

Thank you Stephen for your unwavering support and dedication to volunteering at our park! You are one of the many “Humans of LIC” that deserve to be recognized for your commitment to your community and to us!

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Leave No Trace Coloring Pages

The Hunters Point Parks Conservancy has partnered with The Blue Bus Project on a ‘Leave No Trace’ campaign around LIC. The goal is to convince park patrons to respect our parks and natural environment and to dispose of waste properly. In the near future, our co-created flyers will begin popping up around the neighborhood, but in the meantime we would like to introduce our children’s Leave No Trace coloring pages!

One facet of the campaign is the design and distribution of coloring pages for children, since it is important for children to learn to be good park stewards at a young age! There are two coloring page options - Click here to download page 1 and click here to download page 2.

If you stop by The Blue Bus at Culture Lab LIC, you can also pick up physical copies there.

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