Families lined up in front of Hobby Box, located at 2913 Quentin Road, on Sunday, August 24th, standing on the red carpet, at 10:30 a.m., an hour and a half earlier than the noon start time, all to have the privilege of selecting the best book bag at the store’s annual Back-to-School Supply Event.
Most of the children had a sullen look on their faces as they stood in line while the parents seemed jubilant. “The book bag” was the lackluster reply of the children when asked what was more exciting — going back to school or the book bag. “We’re so happy they’re going back!” yelled one excited parent from the back of the line. The children’s frowns were turned into smiles as they walked through the door, and it was their turn to pick out the bag that will see them through the upcoming school year.
While all the children were excited to get an awesome book bag, their eyes wandered to all the collectibles within the store. Hobby Box opened in May 2020 and offers a wide variety of trading cards (sports, Pokémon, etc.), Funko Pops and other memorabilia. They also buy and sell these items on the live auction platform, Whatnot.
Thanks to sponsors, including the Bergen Beach, Marine Park, Mill Basin and Mill Island civic associations, along with Community Board 18 and Millennium Development, Hobby Box hosted a successful back-to-school supply event. Each preregistered child chose from a variety of book bags that included Hobby Box gear, school supplies and a pair of socks.
Several elected officials and civic members attended the back-to-school event to show their support for the community and Hobby Box’s contribution. Yoni Sarfaty, Mill Basin resident and owner, enjoys giving back to the neighborhood and looks forward to future events.
