Step back in time with us to Corona, Queens, in the 1970s. It was a different world then, a melting pot of cultures, buzzing with life on every corner. From bustling streets to family-run shops, Corona was a place where everyone knew your name and life moved at a slightly slower pace.
Corona was, at its heart, a neighborhood of families. Stoops and sidewalks were gathering places for kids playing stickball and hopscotch, while parents chatted and watched over them. The aroma of home-cooked meals, from Italian red sauce to Dominican sancocho, filled the air. It was a time when doors were left unlocked, and neighbors looked out for one another. The streets of Corona were alive with the sounds of different languages – Spanish, Italian, and English blending together in a unique symphony. Immigrants from all over the world, especially Italy and Latin America, had found a home in Corona.
Corona even had its brush with fame. Louis Armstrong, the legendary jazz musician, lived in a modest house on 107th Street. His home, now a museum, stands as a testament to the neighborhood’s rich cultural history.
Locals had their favorite spots, too. Leo’s Latticini, known for its creamy ricotta and mozzarella, was a staple for Italian families. For a taste of Latin America, Rincon Criollo served up delicious Cuban dishes, while Parkside Restaurant was the go-to spot for a classic diner experience. And who could forget Lemon Ice King of Corona, where long lines formed on hot summer days for a taste of their famous Italian ices?
Life in Corona wasn’t always easy. The 70s were a time of economic challenges, and the neighborhood faced its share of struggles. But amidst these difficulties, the people of Corona persevered, finding joy in simple pleasures, and leaning on their strong sense of community.
Block parties were a common sight, with music, laughter, and the tantalizing smells of barbecue filling the air. Kids spent their days playing in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, home to the iconic Unisphere and the New York Mets. The park was a place where families gathered for picnics, couples strolled hand-in-hand, and children’s laughter echoed through the open spaces.
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