(1990-2000) Jackson Heights Streets Familiar to Drug Cartels
In this article, the author uses the death of Manuel de Dios Unanue to discuss the presence and problem of drug cartels in Jackson Heights. Residents claim to have always believed that Mr. Unanue would be murdered by a cartel because he was so intricately involved in chronicling the underground life of the drug trade in Jackson Heights, one of the main drug hubs for the northeastern portion of the United States. The involvement of illegal and legal business is so closely intertwined, but authorities are continuing to crack down on illegal activity. The author writes that, although a concrete number is unknown, the “Drug Enforcement Administration estimates that 90 percent of its money laundering cases in the New York area trace back to Jackson Heights.” This is only due to the cooperation of legal businesses with illegal cartel actions.
“Jackson Heights Streets Familiar to Drug Cartels.” The New York Times. (May 11, 1993 , Tuesday, Late Edition – Final ): 868 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2012/04/04.
(2000-2010) A Vibrant, Polyglot Hub
This article describes the abundance and diversity of East Asian culture present in Jackson Heights (which sounds similar to what we observed during our tour). There is a high Indian population, but recently, immigrants from Tibet and Nepal have moved in, as well. The author further demonstrates the culture of Jackson Heights by listing various sweet shops, restaurants, and other stores that sell traditional (and some newer) items for a very reasonable price. In a sense, Jackson Heights is portrayed as a “home away from home” for East Asian immigrants. The author also claims that this neighborhood may be “the most diverse neighborhood in the most diverse county in the country” and is one of the most accessible areas of Queens by public transportation.
LEE, By JENNIFER. “A Vibrant, Polyglot Hub.” The New York Times. (December 13, 2009 Sunday ): 671 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2012/04/04.
(2010-2012) Traffic Free Plaza Roils Little India in Queens
In this article, the author informs readers about the recent addition of a “pedestrian plaza” in Jackson Heights, between 73rd and 74th Streets. Although Councilman Dromm says that he previously attempted to connect with them, business owners in this area are disgruntled by the lessened traffic caused by the creation of the new plaza. As Jackson Heights is a popular destination to purchase authentic East Asian commodities, consumers of the associated ethnicities typically flood to the area. However, now there are less parking spots available for consumers; and, therefore, the profits of business owners have gone down. There is still a sense of stubborn hostility on both sides of the dilemma, but Councilman Dromm is determined to keep the plaza where it is.
NIR, By SARAH. “Traffic-Free Plaza Roils Little India in Queens.” The New York Times. (March 19, 2012 Monday ): 777 words. LexisNexis Academic. Web. Date Accessed: 2012/04/03.
