It all started with one shelf of spices and Middle Eastern goods. The need for Middle Eastern products in Albuquerque is what inspired the Aggad family to open Cafe Istanbul. Originally from Palestine, the Aggad’s moved to Columbus, Ohio before making their way to Albuquerque. Since the market’s opening, Cafe Istanbul has been an important part of the community. Customers have shown tremendous support to the Aggad family by bringing them flowers, thank you cards and hugs. “It’s really a blessing,” cafe owner Itadel Aggad said. “We are really blessed to know that people come and they care. We share stories, we share laughs, we share hugs in hard times like Trump’s (election). People would come and say ‘Can I have a hug?’ It means the world. Anytime you communicate with people, it’s the best feeling...and it makes you feel good that they are happy.”
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PHOTO STORY: Comedian, America’s Got Talent finalist brings laughs to students
August 31Students gathered together Wednesday evening to see Ryan Niemiller, a third-place finalist from Season 14 of America’s Got Talent. Niemiller often made jokes related to the life he lives due to his disability, bringing up some of the challenges — but also amusing events — that occur. Toward the end of the show, Niemiller presented the opportunity for anyone in the audience to ask questions, whether that was about his disability, AGT or anything else. Students got a laugh out of this as Niemiller often gave comedic responses to the questions. Preston Rogers is a freelance photographer for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at photo@dailylobo.com and on X @PrestonRog84055
