Summary
Host Intro: Sunnyside has become a favorite in Queens. A middle-class neighborhood only 20 minutes away from Manhattan, which has everything you could ever want to feel comfortable. From the multicultural restaurants to the friendly gestures from neighbors, Sunnyside may be the perfect place to raise a family. Jared Mero Palma, Baruch College Student, takes a walk down Queens Blvd to talk to strangers on their view of Sunnyside.
Ambi: The sound of the 7 train auto conductor announcing the next stop of the 7 train. The train doors closed at 46th station
Track: I was walking down 46 Street Station and I noticed the Starbucks that has been around the area for a while, where I found a guy named Cristian Jimenez getting his refresher after a long day at work.
Act: I've been around the neighborhood for the past 22 years. Living in a 2 bedroom apartment. Sunnyside has been calm for the most part. However, when Covid hit it became more dangerous and crimes started to rise.
Track: I wanted to ask him about the pricing in Sunnyside. I’ve noticed that after COVID-19, family restaurants had to close down due to the higher rent costs. More chains and big corporations are starting to move in.
Act: Mixed emotions because it is nice having friends around the area but it's sad seeing them leave because the rent is increasing every year. There used to be a Chinese place near my place now it has become a smokeshop. This and violence have a negative impact on the neighborhood.
Track: After speaking with Jimenez I headed to 40th Street and Queens Blvd at a Colombian Bakery. There I found a woman enjoying her sip of coffee. I went in knowing that I had to get a coffee as well in order to talk to her comfortably.
Ambi: Sounds of a motorbike zooming on Queens Blvd. Entering the Bakery welcomed by one of the employees
Act: I have been living here for 20 years. I’ve noticed that crimes have gone up and the people do not have the same respect for the cops as they did before. There are moments after the pandemic when we do not feel safe in the area. There is no authority. (Spanish)
Track: The future of Sunnyside is in Jeopardy. No one knows if it's ever gonna be as safe and affordable as before. However, there is light at the end of the tunnel. This is Jared Mero Palma, Baruch College.