Astorian Weekend Edition 02.06.06

Craving some fun and delicious food? AND with a backyard to boot? After work on friday head down Ditmars to Fatty's Cafe (Corner of Ditmars & Crescent). Sadly when i was there the other day the backyard wasn't open. But let some of this good weather in on the weekend and you've got yourself a few well spent hours. I can tell you firsthand that the pressed cubano (roasted pork, black forest ham, swiss, pickles, mayo-chipotle mustard-$8) is a mighty fine sandwich. The spicy mustard adds a different twist to the traditional dish. The chavorrayo (chicken, avocado, monterrey jack, garlic mayo-$8) was also yummy with a dash of the green tabasco graciously provided. They are also known for their decor which is ever changing art/photos hanging on the walls. Local artists hang out there and so does their work! (its all for sale and rotating monthly schedule)

Did you know there was a school for fine art right here in neighboring LIC???? Well now for the aspiring artist in you, head over to the Bridgeview School of Fine Art (42-26 28th St. 2nd fl.) and check out all the classes and programs they have available. They are registering now until June 26th for the summer season (July 5-Aug 30). The 8 week courses vary in price from $255 to $320, not bad for a summer of artistic fun!

Saturday from 10am-12:30pm, go join the Astoria/LIC Waterfront Parks Group in readying up our shoreline for all of us to visit and enjoy this summer. All you need to bring is yourself in some comfy clothes that you won't mind getting a little dirty! Show up where all the people are at the War Memorial in Astoria Park (@ Shore Blvd.)

In for the weekend or planning a car trip? Need something to listen to? Well Astoria can help you out there too! This Show Again, touted as Astoria's only podcast (as far as i can tell it is) has been written up in the NY Times. If you remember back in March, i made a little guest appearance on the show... it will serve as a reminder that i should stick to non-speaking hobbies... and we here at JIA just wanted to send out a big congratulations on the mainstream media attention the boys have gotten. So if you haven't checked them out yet, be sure to log on and download some of their local hilarity to keep you company on your travels.

For next week- Tuesday is the first pick up for the Hellgate CSA! You still have time to get in on the veggie action, its a great deal and a great way to eat this summer.