In the heart of Queens, under the glow of festive red lanterns and the echoes of celebratory gongs, a powerful movement took shape. What began as a joyous Lunar New Year celebration in Flushing quickly transformed into a night of purpose, solidarity, and political awakening. The community gathered—not just to welcome the new year—but to rally behind a man whose unwavering dedication has long been a beacon of hope for District 25: Ricardo Pacheco.
On the evening of Friday, February 21st, the esteemed Asian Jewels Seafood Restaurant became the epicenter of a political surge, as supporters from Jackson Heights, Corona, Woodside, Elmhurst, and even neighboring Flushing came together. Their mission was clear—to propel Ricardo Pacheco’s campaign forward and ensure that District 25 elects a leader who embodies service, integrity, and vision.
The air buzzed with anticipation as attendees, spanning various backgrounds, united in their shared belief in Pacheco’s ability to effect real change. It wasn’t just a fundraiser; it was a declaration of commitment from a community eager to see progress.
Guiding the night’s energy was master of ceremonies Isaiah Vega, whose commanding presence and heartfelt words set the stage for an evening of inspiration. With conviction, he detailed Pacheco’s record of service—a U.S. Marine veteran, a former NYPD police officer, and a dedicated community leader. These were not just credentials; they were testaments to a life devoted to protecting and uplifting others.
“Ricardo Pacheco has always been there for us,” Vega proclaimed, his voice carrying the weight of collective sentiment. “Now, it’s our turn to be there for him. Together, we will build a District 25 that thrives on unity, progress, and opportunity.”
As Pacheco took the microphone, a wave of applause surged through the room. Humbled by the overwhelming support, he spoke with passion and resolve. “This campaign is not just about me,” he declared. “It’s about all of us. It’s about ensuring our community has the strong, unwavering voice it deserves.”
The evening’s momentum continued to build as guest speaker R. A. Ramirez-Baez, a dedicated advocate and close collaborator of Pacheco, took the stage. Addressing one of the most pressing local issues—the ongoing battle against prostitution along Roosevelt Boulevard—Ramirez-Baez underscored the relentless efforts he and Pacheco have undertaken to combat crime and restore safety to the neighborhood.
With palpable intensity, he shared insights from his book, Roosevelt Ave. Crackdown, offering attendees a firsthand glimpse into the realities of their fight for justice. As he signed copies, the room buzzed with admiration and appreciation, further cementing the night’s theme: leadership is action, not just words.
The event drew an impressive array of supporters, including prominent attorney and Municipal Court 2 candidate Julie Milner. Her presence signaled a broader political movement—one that extends beyond a single campaign and speaks to a larger vision for community-driven leadership.
Throughout the night, conversations brimmed with optimism, strategy, and unwavering determination. It was a night where political ambition met cultural celebration, where tradition met transformation, and where a collective dream for a stronger District 25 took tangible form.
As the evening came to a close, the excitement in the room remained high. The Lunar New Year had ushered in a renewed commitment to change, and Pacheco’s campaign gained fresh momentum. With dedicated supporters rallying behind him, the road ahead looks promising. While challenges remain, the night served as a powerful reminder that with unity, hard work, and community-driven leadership, meaningful progress is within reach.
