So, the old joke is "April showers bring May flowers, but what do May flowers bring?? Pilgrims!" This weekend we'll start with April showers (but no pilgrms to my knowledge) and end with those clearing by Sunday, perfect timing for KiteFlight: Skyscrapers at Socrates! This is their fifth annual kite event. You'll be able to build and decorate a kite for free (supplies will be provided). 11am-2pm at the Park, rain or shine. Sunday also brings us the first Street Fair of the season, on Steinway Street between 28th and 34th Avenues, from 11am-6pm. That's four big blocks of mozzarepa/cheap socks/and meat-on-a-stick goodness!
There's also lots of music going on this weekend. You can stop by Waltz on Friday night at 9pm to hear some Brazilian Jazz. Duo Anthony Lanni and Dan Kendall (plus a special guest) will play Bossa Nova and Samba, among others. Jazz singer Robin Aleman will open for them. No cover, $7 drink minimum. On Saturday at 3:30pm, stop by the Broadway branch of the Queens Library for Folktales, Music and Dance from the Philippines. Potri Ranka Manis narrates stories around traditional dance and music featuring kulintang (native gong) and other traditional instruments. She tells stories in English and Tagalog, accompanied by dancer Kinding Sindaw. And on Sunday at 3pm, the Women's Studio Center in LIC presents Carol Sudhalter's International Quintet, performing jazz standards and Latin.
If you want to flex your volunteer muscles, join in the fun at Build it Green! Sign up for their Second Annual Volunteer Day, happening this Saturday, from 1-5pm. Not only will you help beautify their cavernous warehouse, all volunteers get an extra 15% off their next purchase under $500. After-party at the Beer Garden, too. Nice. By the way, did you know the Bohemian Hall is hiring?
The Astoria/LIC Waterfront Walking Tour is this weekend. From 11am-1pm, Richard Melnick will guide you through the western edge of the neighborhood, starting at the corner of Ditmars and Shore Boulevards, and ending at Rainey Park. Be sure to RSVP at (718) 278-0700 or check the GAHS website. And Recycle-A-Bicycle's Spring Ride Club starts this weekend too, Sunday at 10am. Join students and teachers there and learn safe bike-riding skills. Meet at the Recycle-A-Bicycle training center at the corner of 46 Avenue and 5th Street.
Finally, when you have a bit of time, check out the discussion about a Greenmarket in Astoria, and sign the petition if you support the idea.
More fun, here.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Power! Take Yours Back and Make Sure Con-Ed Stays ON IT
I just received some info about the next Power for the People (PFP) event, a Volunteer and Planning Meeting, Saturday, April 28 at 11am, at All Saints Church hall in Sunnyside (43-12 46th Street, one block north of the 7 train 46th St.-Bliss St. stop). They plan to catch people up on what the group has been doing during the winter. Topics to be discussed:
1. PSC voted to put Con Ed on trial for the outage. Last week, the PSC finally decided to essentially put Con Ed on trial through a "prudence proceeding," which can prevent Con Ed from passing on outage-related captial expenses to us as a rate hike. This is an important victory that everyone contributed to, which we will talk about at the meeting. Here is a link to an April 22 Daily News editorial on this titled Con Ed must get zapped.
2. Con Ed's request for settlement talks. Con Ed tried to short-circuit the prudence proceeding by offering settlement talks to resolve some outage issues (such as retroactive payment for our non-food losses) but also to avoid taking blame. PFP wrote a letter opposing this strategy (read it at our website) and we'll talk about this, too.
3. Summer is coming: outage preparation. The PSC investigators say there is no way to know whether we could have another outage this summer because of stress on the Long Island City network from last year's outage. A PFP activist with Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training will talk about how to prepare.
4. Future PFP Activities. These include a possible public forum on "getting ready for summer & outage preparation;" a possible picket or other activity to protest Con Ed's new, 3-year rate hike request (due on May 4!); and a possible Flashlight March through the community on the first anniversary of the outage.
We look forward to seeing you at the April 28 meeting.
Western Queens Power for the People Campaign (718) 512-5442; powerforthepeople2006@hotmail.com
Pink Sale!!!
Hey ladies, the peeps over at Candy Plum are celebrating a birthday this weekend and are sharing the joy with all of us! Go enjoy all pink items at 10% off. The sale starts tonight (thurs 4/26 and goes til closing on sun) so don't miss out!
Greenmarket! Greenmarket!
So, about a month ago, a group of concerned Astoria residents met with representatives from the Council on the Environment of NYC (CENYC, for short - they oversee most of the greenmarkets in the five boroughs) to discuss the possbility of bringing a greenmarket to Astoria. I mean, there's a litty itty bitty one down near Ravenswood, but it's way out of the way for most Astoria residents. One of the issues that came up was where the greenmarket could be held, and after much discussion, we settled on Athens Square Park (30th Avenue near 30th Street).
Now, part of the process is going to the Community Board and stating our case for the greenmarket in this space. And this is where you come in! If you support the idea of a greenmarket in Astoria - a source of fresh, locally grown, organic produce, cheese, bread, and the like - please sign the petition before May 1! As I see it, this can only enhance life in Astoria. Thumbs up!
Now, part of the process is going to the Community Board and stating our case for the greenmarket in this space. And this is where you come in! If you support the idea of a greenmarket in Astoria - a source of fresh, locally grown, organic produce, cheese, bread, and the like - please sign the petition before May 1! As I see it, this can only enhance life in Astoria. Thumbs up!
Silly Willy, I mean Thomas!
You may remember some time ago i was on this little local podcast talking about Astorian events and stuff. Well alot of time has passed and people have come and gone. Essentially, they aren't Astoria's only podcast anymore cause basically- they've all left! We have remained in touch though, which is a good thing since one of the crazies over there has started a new adventure.
Thomas J. Kelly is back and slippery when wet with The Little Merman. He's got 6 episodes up of his antics trying to become the first male mer-person to work at Weeki Wachee in Florida.
So yeah, bored at the office at all? Take a look and laugh your self silly with The Little Merman :)
Thomas J. Kelly is back and slippery when wet with The Little Merman. He's got 6 episodes up of his antics trying to become the first male mer-person to work at Weeki Wachee in Florida.
So yeah, bored at the office at all? Take a look and laugh your self silly with The Little Merman :)
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
More About Your Neighborhood
John at about.com has another take on neighborhoods in Western Queens. I like that fact that he includes Dutch Kills, my new nabe of intrigue:
Dutch Kills
An old neighborhood, one of the first Dutch settlements on Long Island, Dutch Kills is north of Queens Plaza, between Queensbridge/Ravenswood and the Sunnyside Rail Yards. As realtors seek to cash in on Astoria's popularity, Dutch Kills addresses become known in the classifieds as "Astoria/Long Island City." The neighborhood is a mix of residential and industrial. Low rents predominate, but dilapidated blocks and lonely stretches make it a Long Island City frontier, despite great access to the N and W subways.
Fame: The Fisher Landau Center for Art is a private collection of contemporary American art.
And then there's Blissville (a little far, but I love the name)!
Blissville
Ah Blissville! Despite such a great name, the actual neighborhood is sure to disappoint. It's a small area south of the LIE, next to Cavalry Cemetery and Newtown Creek, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Blissville is named for mid-nineteenth century Greenpoint developer Neziah Bliss, and it continues its strong ties to Greenpoint, just over the JJ Byrne Memorial Bridge in Brooklyn.
Fame: The tombstones and chapel in Cavalry Cemetery are glorious. Newtown Creek should be famous, but is sadly just polluted.
Thanks, John!
Dutch Kills
An old neighborhood, one of the first Dutch settlements on Long Island, Dutch Kills is north of Queens Plaza, between Queensbridge/Ravenswood and the Sunnyside Rail Yards. As realtors seek to cash in on Astoria's popularity, Dutch Kills addresses become known in the classifieds as "Astoria/Long Island City." The neighborhood is a mix of residential and industrial. Low rents predominate, but dilapidated blocks and lonely stretches make it a Long Island City frontier, despite great access to the N and W subways.
Fame: The Fisher Landau Center for Art is a private collection of contemporary American art.
And then there's Blissville (a little far, but I love the name)!
Blissville
Ah Blissville! Despite such a great name, the actual neighborhood is sure to disappoint. It's a small area south of the LIE, next to Cavalry Cemetery and Newtown Creek, with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. Blissville is named for mid-nineteenth century Greenpoint developer Neziah Bliss, and it continues its strong ties to Greenpoint, just over the JJ Byrne Memorial Bridge in Brooklyn.
Fame: The tombstones and chapel in Cavalry Cemetery are glorious. Newtown Creek should be famous, but is sadly just polluted.
Thanks, John!
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Your Neighborhood, Defined by the Queens Gazette
While poking around various news sources today, I came across these fun factoid blurb descriptions of various neighborhoods in Queens. Here's Western Queens:
Astoria
This primarily residential, one and two family area was known as Hallets Cove in the eighteenth century. The area was given its current name in honor of John Jacob Astor. It later became part of Long Island City.
Astoria, the home of Kaufmann-Astoria Studios which opened in 1920, has a large Greek influence (the largest Greek population outside of Athens) but Italian, Asian and South American cultures also have major influence.
Ditmars
A section of northern Astoria, generally considered part of the greater community.
Home to major power plants, Ditmars was named for the first mayor of Long Island City, Abram Ditmars.
Hunters Point
A section of Long Island City, Hunters Point was named for George Hunter who owned the property in 1825. The riverside location secured an industrial importance for this neighborhood.
Although still industrial in nature residential sections have remained and more housing is planned as part of the Queens West development.
Long Island City
Long Island City was originally part of the town of Newtown but combined with the villages of Ravenswood, Dutch Kills, Hunters Point, Astoria and Steinway to form Long Island City in 1870.
Predominately industrial in nature because of the Queensboro Bridge and linking subway lines, the area was only doted with residential sections. The area, though still predominately industrial, is home to loft-sized dwellings and many artistic endeavors.
Ravenswood
Named for Rev. John Ravenscroft, Ravenswood is a part of Long Island City.
The riverfront estates that once filled this area are now apartment buildings, one of which is the Ravenswood housing project.
Roosevelt Island
Located in the East River between New York City and Queens, Franklin D. Roosevelt Island, is part of Manhattan administratively, with a large residential development and a major rehabilitative hospital, Coler Memorial.
Home to Indians, the island was settled by Europeans in the late 17th century, bought by New York City in the late 1820s and was named Blackwell’s Island. It subsequently became Welfare Island in 1921 and finally Roosevelt Island in 1973.
Steinway
An area originally settled by the Germans in the early nineteenth century and part of the larger Astoria community.
Steinway was given its name when piano manufacturer Theodore Steinway moved his piano plant there from Manhattan.
And, our neighbors to the east:
Sunnyside
Sunnyside is named for a farm that became the town’s original site. Sunnyside Gardens, a development of garden apartments, was the first of its kind in the United States.
Celtic Park was a recreational spot and center for sports to the large Irish population that inhabited the area. The spot became a greyhound racetrack and is currently the site of Celtic Park Houses, a large apartment complex.
Woodside
This neighborhood, a blend of residential, commercial and industrial areas that is named due to the large wooded area that was located there in 1869 when the town was founded.
Tower Square located on Northern Boulevard and 51st Street was built as a railway station and has since been preserved as a landmark.
Astoria
This primarily residential, one and two family area was known as Hallets Cove in the eighteenth century. The area was given its current name in honor of John Jacob Astor. It later became part of Long Island City.
Astoria, the home of Kaufmann-Astoria Studios which opened in 1920, has a large Greek influence (the largest Greek population outside of Athens) but Italian, Asian and South American cultures also have major influence.
Ditmars
A section of northern Astoria, generally considered part of the greater community.
Home to major power plants, Ditmars was named for the first mayor of Long Island City, Abram Ditmars.
Hunters Point
A section of Long Island City, Hunters Point was named for George Hunter who owned the property in 1825. The riverside location secured an industrial importance for this neighborhood.
Although still industrial in nature residential sections have remained and more housing is planned as part of the Queens West development.
Long Island City
Long Island City was originally part of the town of Newtown but combined with the villages of Ravenswood, Dutch Kills, Hunters Point, Astoria and Steinway to form Long Island City in 1870.
Predominately industrial in nature because of the Queensboro Bridge and linking subway lines, the area was only doted with residential sections. The area, though still predominately industrial, is home to loft-sized dwellings and many artistic endeavors.
Ravenswood
Named for Rev. John Ravenscroft, Ravenswood is a part of Long Island City.
The riverfront estates that once filled this area are now apartment buildings, one of which is the Ravenswood housing project.
Roosevelt Island
Located in the East River between New York City and Queens, Franklin D. Roosevelt Island, is part of Manhattan administratively, with a large residential development and a major rehabilitative hospital, Coler Memorial.
Home to Indians, the island was settled by Europeans in the late 17th century, bought by New York City in the late 1820s and was named Blackwell’s Island. It subsequently became Welfare Island in 1921 and finally Roosevelt Island in 1973.
Steinway
An area originally settled by the Germans in the early nineteenth century and part of the larger Astoria community.
Steinway was given its name when piano manufacturer Theodore Steinway moved his piano plant there from Manhattan.
And, our neighbors to the east:
Sunnyside
Sunnyside is named for a farm that became the town’s original site. Sunnyside Gardens, a development of garden apartments, was the first of its kind in the United States.
Celtic Park was a recreational spot and center for sports to the large Irish population that inhabited the area. The spot became a greyhound racetrack and is currently the site of Celtic Park Houses, a large apartment complex.
Woodside
This neighborhood, a blend of residential, commercial and industrial areas that is named due to the large wooded area that was located there in 1869 when the town was founded.
Tower Square located on Northern Boulevard and 51st Street was built as a railway station and has since been preserved as a landmark.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Spiderman Week is Coming!
Ok, so I love these Spiderman movies with Tobey McGuire and Kirsten Dunst. But I've enjoyed Spiderman since I was a kid, especially loving the animated series on TV in the 70s, what with its catchy theme song and lyrics ("Spiderman, Spiderman/Friendly neighborhood Spiderman./Is he strong?/Listen bud!/He's got radioactive blood - lookout!/Here comes the Spiderman!"). Anyway, Spiderman Week in NYC is coming up. Astoria plays a big part in it, too - from Wired:
The City of New York has declared the week of April 30th through May 6th "Spider-Man Week in NYC". The marketing ploy starts off with a cast appearance and street festival in the Today plaza in Rockefeller Center (when did they name the plaza after the morning show that monopolizes it every day?). Tobey and Kirsten will then jet off to luxurious Astoria, Queens -- where Peter Parker is from -- to celebrate the film's US premiere at the UA Kaufman Astoria 14 theater. The Tribeca Film Festival will also have simultaneous screenings in the other four boroughs, which will be open to the public.I guess I didn't realize that Peter Parker was supposed to be from luxurious Astoria!
Around Town
Hope you all had a good Earth Day this Sunday! On Saturday Sooz and I were busy with NY Cares' Hands On NY event as part of the Astoria Cares team. We helped out at the Goodwill Triangle and Astoria Park. Pictures can be found here. It was a gorgeous day to be out helping improve our fair city.
Last week I stopped in at the Steinway Branch of the Queens Library and picked up a library card! I've been a fan and user of libraries all my life (my mom trained as a Children's Librarian in college), so I'm a little shocked that it's taken this long to get myself a library card. Anyway, it's a bit smaller than the Emma Clark Library I was used to on Long Island, but it had plenty of books and a lot of interesting "new and popular" books. Also saw that they have CDs, DVDs and Videos to check out, which is way cool. I found some great cookbooks, too. Anyway, with our lack of good bookstores in town, the library is a definite viable option. There are two other branches I'm aware of, one of Broadway and one on Astoria Blvd.
At the Steinway branch there were a lot of community announcements, and I saw an ad for a very cute black and white cat for adoption called "Spookey", and an announcement for a Book Discussion at Igloo this Thursday at 7pm. They'll be discussing Nightingales by Gillian Gill. The book is available at the circulation desk at the library, if you're interested.
While I was out and about, I stopped in at Fresh Start Market on 23rd Ave to pick up some castile soap. They had the kind I was looking for, tea tree scented. I am totally in love with Dr. Bronner's castile soap these days. While I was looking around I decided to get a smoothie, the "Cowboy", which had blueberries and peaches among others. The woman behind the counter gave me a sample of some other juice that had orange and peach in it, and it was really, really good. They have expanded their offerings substantially. You can get all sorts of organic product there, as well as pet food and prepared vegan food. Really impressive, and I'll be shopping there more often.
Lastly, just a note to let you know that as of today I'm writing for the OuterB (but not abandoning Joey in Astoria!), a site about Queens real estate. Come by and say hi!
Last week I stopped in at the Steinway Branch of the Queens Library and picked up a library card! I've been a fan and user of libraries all my life (my mom trained as a Children's Librarian in college), so I'm a little shocked that it's taken this long to get myself a library card. Anyway, it's a bit smaller than the Emma Clark Library I was used to on Long Island, but it had plenty of books and a lot of interesting "new and popular" books. Also saw that they have CDs, DVDs and Videos to check out, which is way cool. I found some great cookbooks, too. Anyway, with our lack of good bookstores in town, the library is a definite viable option. There are two other branches I'm aware of, one of Broadway and one on Astoria Blvd.
At the Steinway branch there were a lot of community announcements, and I saw an ad for a very cute black and white cat for adoption called "Spookey", and an announcement for a Book Discussion at Igloo this Thursday at 7pm. They'll be discussing Nightingales by Gillian Gill. The book is available at the circulation desk at the library, if you're interested.
While I was out and about, I stopped in at Fresh Start Market on 23rd Ave to pick up some castile soap. They had the kind I was looking for, tea tree scented. I am totally in love with Dr. Bronner's castile soap these days. While I was looking around I decided to get a smoothie, the "Cowboy", which had blueberries and peaches among others. The woman behind the counter gave me a sample of some other juice that had orange and peach in it, and it was really, really good. They have expanded their offerings substantially. You can get all sorts of organic product there, as well as pet food and prepared vegan food. Really impressive, and I'll be shopping there more often.
Lastly, just a note to let you know that as of today I'm writing for the OuterB (but not abandoning Joey in Astoria!), a site about Queens real estate. Come by and say hi!
Friday, April 20, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 20.04.07
It should be Earth Day every day. Since it's not, let's celebrate it this weekend! Saturday go enjoy the break in the rain by cheering on the Astorian contingent of NY Cares! Meg and myself along with another dozen or so merry makers will be working on beautifying our lovely nabe. I will not turn you away if you feel like getting down and dirty in the mud with us ;)
Looks like it may get a little crowded too since Waterfront Parks people are joining in on the fun. Nah, there's room for everyone!
Working hard all day builds up an appetite: have some hearty Portuguese grub. New in the hood is Arcos and I'm oh-so-excited about the menu.
Sunday looks to be an outdoorsy kind of day too, finish off the green weekend participating or donating to the MS Walk. I'll be walking in NJ for my best friend but there are locations everywhere! Your closest one will be the South Street Seaport- not a bad view at all!
If you're staying local and over by the park, why not sit outside and enjoy the delicious offerings of Agnanti?! It's one of my favorite Greek restaurants ever. Now's the time if you've never been.
Web wise: Check in on the Hellgate CSA peeps and see what's going to be available for you this season. Great new goodies for all!
Looks like it may get a little crowded too since Waterfront Parks people are joining in on the fun. Nah, there's room for everyone!
Working hard all day builds up an appetite: have some hearty Portuguese grub. New in the hood is Arcos and I'm oh-so-excited about the menu.
Sunday looks to be an outdoorsy kind of day too, finish off the green weekend participating or donating to the MS Walk. I'll be walking in NJ for my best friend but there are locations everywhere! Your closest one will be the South Street Seaport- not a bad view at all!
If you're staying local and over by the park, why not sit outside and enjoy the delicious offerings of Agnanti?! It's one of my favorite Greek restaurants ever. Now's the time if you've never been.Web wise: Check in on the Hellgate CSA peeps and see what's going to be available for you this season. Great new goodies for all!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Help Start a Garden
Ho humm. It's so nice up here by lovely Astoria Park. I sure wish I could garden... Alas, now you can be part-founder of the new and exciting Community Garden!
Map to location:
http://tinyurl.com/yrkfkp
This from our friends over at Parks:
What: Come meet friends and neighbors to help start a new community garden and keep the garden beautiful. On April 21st , we're kicking off the garden season with regular weekly gardening days every Saturday. We'll be planting, weeding, building raised garden beds, and more!
When: Saturday, April 21, 10am-1pm and Sunday, April 22, 10am-1pm
Where: Goodwill Triangle/Two Coves Garden at 30th Avenue, 8th Street, and Astoria Blvd
Who: Friends of Two Coves Garden
More info: Contact Karen at Karen.Overton@parks.nyc.gov or 718-706-8044
Map to location:
http://tinyurl.com/yrkfkp
This from our friends over at Parks:
Garden Days at Two Coves Garden/Goodwill Triangle!
What: Come meet friends and neighbors to help start a new community garden and keep the garden beautiful. On April 21st , we're kicking off the garden season with regular weekly gardening days every Saturday. We'll be planting, weeding, building raised garden beds, and more!
When: Saturday, April 21, 10am-1pm and Sunday, April 22, 10am-1pm
Where: Goodwill Triangle/Two Coves Garden at 30th Avenue, 8th Street, and Astoria Blvd
Who: Friends of Two Coves Garden
More info: Contact Karen at Karen.Overton@parks.nyc.gov or 718-706-8044
Friday, April 13, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 13.04.07
[this edition highlights both Astoria and Astorians...]
Did you know that Saturday, April 14 is the National Day of Climate Action? Indeed it is. Step It Up is putting together numerous actions around the country, and NYC is contributing the Sea of People action, noon on Saturday (more here). Why do I mention it? Our own Joey is gonna be part of it!
This whole weekend will be rainy, which is great weather to say inside and relax. Maybe go see a movie (and catch some cool demonstrations while you're there) Or tweet with your friends. Maybe finally sign up for the local CSA season.
If you feel like venturing out - perhaps a to take a break from your taxes - P.S.1 presents Sarah Sze for a gallery talk about her work on Saturday at 3:00 pm. At the Noguchi, you can catch the end of Shin Banraisha: A Cultural Memory. For more cultural stimulation, the Lost Dog Music Ensemble, Astoria's premiere new music group, is playing a concert. It's at Tenri, but the group is comprised of lots of Astoria musicians.
If you happen to be dining at Mundo this weekend, take a look at the walls where you'll find paintings by local Queens artist Kenneth Yee. I love places in town that show art! Other great places to see art while eating/drinking are Fatty's, Freezepeach, and while there's no local art up on the walls, I love the decor at Cafe Bar. And on the subject of cafes, I've heard that Cafe Henri (1010 50th Ave. in LIC) has broadened their menu and improved a whole bunch of things there. Check it out!
And I can't forget to mention the Greek Independence Parade this Sunday! I'm sure many of my Greek neighbors will be on 5th Ave that afternoon. It starts at 1pm, but will be shown on FOX, 1:30-3:30pm.
More fun, here.
Did you know that Saturday, April 14 is the National Day of Climate Action? Indeed it is. Step It Up is putting together numerous actions around the country, and NYC is contributing the Sea of People action, noon on Saturday (more here). Why do I mention it? Our own Joey is gonna be part of it!
This whole weekend will be rainy, which is great weather to say inside and relax. Maybe go see a movie (and catch some cool demonstrations while you're there) Or tweet with your friends. Maybe finally sign up for the local CSA season.
If you feel like venturing out - perhaps a to take a break from your taxes - P.S.1 presents Sarah Sze for a gallery talk about her work on Saturday at 3:00 pm. At the Noguchi, you can catch the end of Shin Banraisha: A Cultural Memory. For more cultural stimulation, the Lost Dog Music Ensemble, Astoria's premiere new music group, is playing a concert. It's at Tenri, but the group is comprised of lots of Astoria musicians.
If you happen to be dining at Mundo this weekend, take a look at the walls where you'll find paintings by local Queens artist Kenneth Yee. I love places in town that show art! Other great places to see art while eating/drinking are Fatty's, Freezepeach, and while there's no local art up on the walls, I love the decor at Cafe Bar. And on the subject of cafes, I've heard that Cafe Henri (1010 50th Ave. in LIC) has broadened their menu and improved a whole bunch of things there. Check it out!
And I can't forget to mention the Greek Independence Parade this Sunday! I'm sure many of my Greek neighbors will be on 5th Ave that afternoon. It starts at 1pm, but will be shown on FOX, 1:30-3:30pm.
More fun, here.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
I love the Irish Rover
I really do. As a heathen on Easter, it was a nice place to be. Great pint of Harp, baseball on the main TV, and music at a reasonable level. They have a great jukebox, by the way.
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Dutch Kills in the News
The Times has a recent article, Thinking Big at a Time Others Are Thinking Small, regarding the call from some Dutch Kills residents for upzoning instead of downzoning, a subject that is talked so much about these days when it comes to the bugaboo of overdevelopment. Some feel that if development doesn't come to Dutch Kills, "the neighborhood will atrophy and die." For those not in the know, Dutch Kills is in northern LIC, its southern border pretty much at the Queensboro Bridge.
[Sidebar: do you call it the Queensboro Bridge or the 59th Street Bridge?]
LICNYC also brings the article to light.
Anyway, read the article, make up your mind. I don't know Dutch Kills very well, but the article makes me want to explore it and see their mix of residential and industrial use.
[Sidebar: do you call it the Queensboro Bridge or the 59th Street Bridge?]
LICNYC also brings the article to light.
Anyway, read the article, make up your mind. I don't know Dutch Kills very well, but the article makes me want to explore it and see their mix of residential and industrial use.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 06.04.07
Hooray for funky new shops opening up near home! If you missed Site's grand opening yesterday, it's no problem: stop in Friday and welcome them with some shopping action. They are setting up shop in the south side of town, 35-11 34th Ave which is also very cool. Their myspace says they are into "well designed objects, vintage must haves, retro fabrics, yellow, glitter, bling, oh-la-la, stripes and polka dots, femme ornament, high gloss shine, edison bulbs, pretty little feathers, lightning, gemstones, cupcakes, periwinkle and purple, hot off the press art, nature, science, and the whole big bang." Fit what you're looking for?
Being around the corner from Cafe Bar (32-90 36th St) makes it oh so easy to stop there afterwards for a nosh, go crepe crazy!
Seems like forever since I've stopped in to Crescent Lounge (32-05 Crescent St.). Saturday night (and most other nights too) from 5-8 daily they have all kinds of drink specials!
Gotta love Rizzo's, and since I'm reminiscing about Crescent- might as well pay them a visit too. After all the happy hour action, grab a deal with 2 slices and a coke (used to be $5 way back when, lets see if it's still a bargain!)
If you want to spend the day outside with all the spring in the air, dust off your Japanese skills and take in a free tour of the Noguchi Museum (9-01 33rd Road @ Vernon). It's free with admission, but remember- it will be in Japanese! For tour info and all the other goodies from them, stop in or check www.noguchi.org
No egg hunts or bunny visits for you? Be happy anyways! First we had Tuesday nights with Matt Taylor at Waltz, now the chuckles will be coming to Stini Yiamas (35-03 Ditmars Blvd) on Sunday nights! Easter Sunday at 9pm, let the comedic stylings of our very own sidewalk chalker keep you entertained. Stay later and enjoy the after party with Matt as the DJ!
Being around the corner from Cafe Bar (32-90 36th St) makes it oh so easy to stop there afterwards for a nosh, go crepe crazy!
Seems like forever since I've stopped in to Crescent Lounge (32-05 Crescent St.). Saturday night (and most other nights too) from 5-8 daily they have all kinds of drink specials!
Gotta love Rizzo's, and since I'm reminiscing about Crescent- might as well pay them a visit too. After all the happy hour action, grab a deal with 2 slices and a coke (used to be $5 way back when, lets see if it's still a bargain!)
If you want to spend the day outside with all the spring in the air, dust off your Japanese skills and take in a free tour of the Noguchi Museum (9-01 33rd Road @ Vernon). It's free with admission, but remember- it will be in Japanese! For tour info and all the other goodies from them, stop in or check www.noguchi.org
No egg hunts or bunny visits for you? Be happy anyways! First we had Tuesday nights with Matt Taylor at Waltz, now the chuckles will be coming to Stini Yiamas (35-03 Ditmars Blvd) on Sunday nights! Easter Sunday at 9pm, let the comedic stylings of our very own sidewalk chalker keep you entertained. Stay later and enjoy the after party with Matt as the DJ!
Thursday, April 05, 2007
My peeps in the hood :)
If you didn't know it before, you know it now- I am Portuguese. First generation born in the US. I grew up in NJ in a very very very Portuguese neighborhood where the food shopping and eating out was very authentic. For 25 years i took for granted all the fresh and delicious homemade offerings at my fingertips! Moving to NY, even though it is only an hour away- left me craving mom's cuisine. Yes there are tons of Brazilian restaurants around but as good as they are, that's not the real deal. Well my friends, that's all changed now. Arcos (33-05 Broadway) has opened! There had been some chatter of a new place opening and that ...it would be a Portuguese restaurant. After stopping over there to verify this, I saw it with my own eyes! That was 2 weeks ago. This past Sunday April 1, they opened for business. Last night on my way home i decided to stop in and check it out. Chef/Owner Joe came out of the kitchen to talk shop a little. Oh how happy was I to be able to talk food in Portuguese! Half the time I don't know what the English translation of most of the dishes are anyway, so it was a lot easier to gush about them all in the original language.
I don't have a whole lot to say yet, i plan on really scrutinizing the menu and tasting more then any girl watching her figure should, but i couldn't leave without getting one of my favorite dishes to go- Carne de Porco a Alentejana. It's little pork cubes and potatoes and clams (and sometimes shrimp and chorico too) in a zesty/garlicky brown sauce served with rice and a squeeze of lemon. It was quite tasty indeed, but since i had a very specific quality in mind, i don't think it quite hit the 5 star mark i was hoping for. It should have come with some bread and a wedge of lemon for sure, you can't eat Portuguese without bread! And the side of mashed potatoes-although good, were redundant with the lightly fried potatoes in the dish proper. I loved the rice! oh how i loved it. It was perfect!!! The clams were yumm too (if a bit large). Lastly, the pork pieces tasted great but i think they should have been smaller. All the parts of the dish should be uniformly about 1 inch square (imo). All in all, for $11 it was a great dinner. More then enough to share too. Not enough for 2 meals, but definitely a good shareable dish.They don't offer delivery yet, but you can call ahead for carry out. I had a menu but darn it if i didn't forget it there! It was much smaller then the huge selection for dining in, but it had a wide variety of offerings for sure. Liquor- not yet, another new place that has to wait forever and a day for their license! Good news is that most Portuguese wines fall way under the $10 mark for decent dinner pairings and more and more local stores are carrying them. Bring a couple!
So yeah, i am extremely happy about Arcos in Astoria. Already planning a big party with my closest 20 friends to really test out their menu. If you've never had Portuguese, please go and enjoy. Some of it may not be pretty (we've been known to leave a head on once or twice) but you can be sure that its made with love and will warm your heart.
I promise you more pictures, price points and my honest pros and cons for sure.
Arcos Churasqueira
33-05 Broadway, Astoria
718-204-2142
Arcos Churasqueira33-05 Broadway, Astoria
718-204-2142
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Noshwalk this month
Saturday April 28th, join in on the eating fun with Noshwalks. Foodies galore trek around the neighborhood and visit several of Astoria's many cultural markets and restaurants. They've come to the area before, so if you missed it last year- here's another chance. They are meeting at 2:30 @ El Sitio de Astoria (35-55 31st St.) Most walks go about 2.5-3 hours so wear your comfy feet! I think they usually charge around $33 including all the nibbling, but check with the site and register there. I don't see why this wouldn't wouldn't be awesome, Astoria Rocks!
Friday, March 30, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 30.03.07
This weekend should be pretty nice, with average spring temperatures and the chance for a little rain, It's also a big one for our religious neighbors in Astoria: Palm Sunday occurs for both the western and orthodox churches, and Saturday brings Mawlid Al Nabi, the birthday of the Prophet Muhammed. If you live near 23rd Avenue and 36th Street, you'll no doubt see a lot of activity, as there is both a mosque and the Greek monastery a block away from each other.
Recently I've discovered the availibilty of delicious fresh juices in the neighborhood. I can vouch for the tasty carrot-apple juice at Igloo, and the carrot-apple-ginger (detoxlicious!) at Cafe Bar. Trusted sources tell me that
Bianca's Bakery also serves up some great fresh juice as well. I sometimes find fresh juices to be more invigorating that coffee. However, if you are looking for a great coffee, definitely check out the cappucino at Sparrow. They do a great job of brewing strong, yet smooth espresso, and their steamed milk is excellent. I had one a few weeks ago and was really impressed. Maybe get yourself a bastard while you're there?
On Friday, Waltz presents singer-songwriter Wendy Colonna at 9pm. She's from Austin and is described as a "bluesy Joan Osbourne". $10 Cover, $7 drink minimum. They are also having their monthly wine event on Saturday at 9pm. Great wine, cheese, bread, etc, plus Song and Bethany Rose on piano, all for $25. On Friday and Saturday at 8pm Genesis Repertory will present Romeo & Juliet: Jerusalem at the Greek Cultural Center (27-18 Hoyt Ave. South). Also, this is the last weekend to catch Richard Garrison's Perimeters at the Chocolate Factory.
More fun, here.
Recently I've discovered the availibilty of delicious fresh juices in the neighborhood. I can vouch for the tasty carrot-apple juice at Igloo, and the carrot-apple-ginger (detoxlicious!) at Cafe Bar. Trusted sources tell me that
Bianca's Bakery also serves up some great fresh juice as well. I sometimes find fresh juices to be more invigorating that coffee. However, if you are looking for a great coffee, definitely check out the cappucino at Sparrow. They do a great job of brewing strong, yet smooth espresso, and their steamed milk is excellent. I had one a few weeks ago and was really impressed. Maybe get yourself a bastard while you're there?
On Friday, Waltz presents singer-songwriter Wendy Colonna at 9pm. She's from Austin and is described as a "bluesy Joan Osbourne". $10 Cover, $7 drink minimum. They are also having their monthly wine event on Saturday at 9pm. Great wine, cheese, bread, etc, plus Song and Bethany Rose on piano, all for $25. On Friday and Saturday at 8pm Genesis Repertory will present Romeo & Juliet: Jerusalem at the Greek Cultural Center (27-18 Hoyt Ave. South). Also, this is the last weekend to catch Richard Garrison's Perimeters at the Chocolate Factory.
More fun, here.
Monday, March 26, 2007
A new something
Could be a bar, a restaurant, lounge, club? Apollon is on Steinway and an Ave. above Ditmars i think. I spaced on writing down the cross street. I was walking along just checking out the area and it just struck out to me. Looks quite nice. Guess we'll have to check back in in a a week or so, the opening can't be too far off. Anyone out there have any info?
Friday, March 23, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 23.03.07
Friday night stop at the ATM and try out the new Island Cafe & Lounge (35-15 36th Street). It's brand new and helmed by Top Chef contestant Josie Smith-Malave. It's definitely a new kinda place for the hood; let's see how they do. If their $11 drinks scare you off, try out the huge fishbowl-sized caipirinhas at Time Cafe! (44-18 Broadway) For a mere $8, you'll be sipping for at least a half hour. Tasty indeed and such a cute space (see photo).Saturday go window shopping or actual shopping at the coolest random item store around! It's Marco Polo Gift House (44-10 30th Ave) to the rescue for those hard to shop for friends and loved ones.
Hungry from shopping, catch an early dinner at Aces (32-07 36th Ave). I had the skate there and LOVED it. After dinner let your ears be entertained by our pal DJ Lo-Fi, he'll be spinning over at the always hip and happening Hellgate Social. Fun with the tunes and always no cover- just like we like it. Ladies, count on RightRides when your ready to go home. No more long and lonely (and sometimes scary) walks to the train/bus/cab
Sunday head north. Not too far north, but up towards the park. The Ultimate Frisbee season is officially here! Hooray for Spring :) Need a break after tossing the disk around, find your way over to Freeze Peach where a bunch of folks are having a book swap around 2pm. Bring a book or two and find yourself something new to read.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Passover is Coming!
So, when I was a little girl, my parents converted to Judaism (if you've seen me, you'll find that hard to believe). We, of course, observed Passover, and it became my favorite celebration of the Jewish Year. During the seder on the first night (Monday, April 2 this year), wine plays a big part. Unfortunately, all we had at that point was the cloyingly sweet Mogen David or Manischewitz. These days, there are many more options. Want to check some kosher wines out? Go by Vine Wine in LIC and participate in next Wednesday's tasting:
Wednesday March 28th, 6:30pm
Kosher Wines, for Kosher Times
I know, you think you are scared. Don't be. There are some fantastic kosher wines available now, and we will be tasting a few of them from around the world. So that you too can walk around secure in your knowledge of kosher wines and how delicious they can be.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Say No to Restaurants
Dear Readers -
I am happy to announce that here at Joey In Astoria we are welcoming a new occasional guest restaurant reviewer, Dr. No.
Dr. No fled Phoenix for the steamy underworld of late night restaurants and temperamental chefs in Gotham. She came to town a yes girl, but has been transformed through the fire of fine service into Dr. No, the waitress who is not afraid to give you what you really want, whether you know it or not.
Please welcome her in proper Astorian fashion. (Whatever the hell that is.)
I am happy to announce that here at Joey In Astoria we are welcoming a new occasional guest restaurant reviewer, Dr. No.
Dr. No fled Phoenix for the steamy underworld of late night restaurants and temperamental chefs in Gotham. She came to town a yes girl, but has been transformed through the fire of fine service into Dr. No, the waitress who is not afraid to give you what you really want, whether you know it or not.
Please welcome her in proper Astorian fashion. (Whatever the hell that is.)
New Feature-- A review of Aces Restaurant
Aces
36th ave between 32nd and 33rd Street
You know, I am one of those eaters who likes a sweet pea flan as much as a Jack in the Box taco in the right circumstances. I appreciate food from both sides of the tracks, if you will, as long as someone has loved it just a little before it has been dropped on the plate that I eat it from. But I tell you this-- if someone has loved the food a lot, even if it has other flaws.... well then, I am forever in their thrall.
This is the case with the new Aces. Three sets of my friends had directed me here by the time I finally made it in. A bitterly cold Saturday night found me sitting at the bar, alone, and waiting a bit too long to be greeted and offered a drink. (who does a girl have to fuck around here to get a drink?!??!!) But the waitress in me could see that it was just a case of too many customers and one too few waiter types. Truthfully, it was all I could do not to just get up and help them with the room, but I refrained and was glad I did, because it now means that I get to go back and be "the nice lady who tips well" instead of "the impatient lady who had to jump in and waitress because she could not wait for that cocktail."
So, indeed my bartender did arrive, and graciously offered me a drink. I chose a glass of wine, something I realize now was not a mistake, but not my strongest decision. I should have had one of his cocktails. His meaning the bartender/owner, Miguel. The reason being is that he is a damn good bartender, and in a city this big we fall into a false sense of complacency thinking that surely most bartenders are good, but let me tell you straight-- they are NOT. A truly good bartender is almost too good to be true, and you should shower your money and affections on the few who come along. Subsequent visits have brought many Mojitos, and although I have strong feelings about making a bartender use so much fresh mint in the dead of winter, (out of season!!!!) I can get over them for this mojito. He loves that sucker like nobody's business, and you the lucky drinker are thus rewarded. Not only that, but his old fashioneds are damn good too. A drinker's paradise.
That night I ate an app of Risotto-- with Huitlacoche!!!! In Astoria. Dude, huitlacoche is a fungus that grows on corn in Mexico and is deeeelicious. It is also curiously not present at most restaurants save high end fussy in Manhattan. What a treat to have it here. Creamy risotto-- not too wet, not too dry, with mushrooms and that black funk. Oh yeah. I finished, happily, and slid off my barstool into the night.
In other visits, I have had the clams, cooked in a white wine, butter and chorizo broth that we loved so much we upended the bowl and drank it, (good thing we have no shame) and this fun take on the french frisee et lardons salad, this one with long leaves of Romaine lettuce, poached egg, lardons and a crema fresca dressing. Springy and bright, that salad, plus the added bonus is that after you have broken the egg and it has oozed all over the lettuce, you can use the leaves as a shovel and scoop up the bits of everything else with your hands. It seems uncouth, but truly it is genius. A late night dinner brought the butternut squash soup, a tad salty but good, a gorgeously marbled Ribeye with a rosemary scented jus and some potato puree, and a crusted skate wing with a little too much balsamic redux on the plate but plenty of love nonetheless. And, I would like to mention, I believe that the skate was only $15 and the ribeye $20. That is a steal no matter how you look at it.
So, go see these guys. Take a night off from dining in the glossy halls of manhattan and do a little business in your neighborhood. The drinks are well mixed, the food is simple and well prepared and there is love going on your plate and in your glass. You can get the best, most expensive ingredients in the world and the hottest customers and the best press, but at the end of the day, it is only the guys who truly care about feeding you that make the difference. Go go go to Aces!
Aces: 36th ave between 32nd and 33rd Street
Open 7 days a week for dinner only
Cash only for now.
Pros: food is excellent and off the beaten path. Fresh, well thought out menu with stuff you want to eat. Reasonable prices, large portions, GREAT bartender, owned and operated by people who truly care.
Cons; service can be a bit slow-- kitchen could tighten time between courses. This should improve over time.
36th ave between 32nd and 33rd Street
You know, I am one of those eaters who likes a sweet pea flan as much as a Jack in the Box taco in the right circumstances. I appreciate food from both sides of the tracks, if you will, as long as someone has loved it just a little before it has been dropped on the plate that I eat it from. But I tell you this-- if someone has loved the food a lot, even if it has other flaws.... well then, I am forever in their thrall.
This is the case with the new Aces. Three sets of my friends had directed me here by the time I finally made it in. A bitterly cold Saturday night found me sitting at the bar, alone, and waiting a bit too long to be greeted and offered a drink. (who does a girl have to fuck around here to get a drink?!??!!) But the waitress in me could see that it was just a case of too many customers and one too few waiter types. Truthfully, it was all I could do not to just get up and help them with the room, but I refrained and was glad I did, because it now means that I get to go back and be "the nice lady who tips well" instead of "the impatient lady who had to jump in and waitress because she could not wait for that cocktail."
So, indeed my bartender did arrive, and graciously offered me a drink. I chose a glass of wine, something I realize now was not a mistake, but not my strongest decision. I should have had one of his cocktails. His meaning the bartender/owner, Miguel. The reason being is that he is a damn good bartender, and in a city this big we fall into a false sense of complacency thinking that surely most bartenders are good, but let me tell you straight-- they are NOT. A truly good bartender is almost too good to be true, and you should shower your money and affections on the few who come along. Subsequent visits have brought many Mojitos, and although I have strong feelings about making a bartender use so much fresh mint in the dead of winter, (out of season!!!!) I can get over them for this mojito. He loves that sucker like nobody's business, and you the lucky drinker are thus rewarded. Not only that, but his old fashioneds are damn good too. A drinker's paradise.
That night I ate an app of Risotto-- with Huitlacoche!!!! In Astoria. Dude, huitlacoche is a fungus that grows on corn in Mexico and is deeeelicious. It is also curiously not present at most restaurants save high end fussy in Manhattan. What a treat to have it here. Creamy risotto-- not too wet, not too dry, with mushrooms and that black funk. Oh yeah. I finished, happily, and slid off my barstool into the night.
In other visits, I have had the clams, cooked in a white wine, butter and chorizo broth that we loved so much we upended the bowl and drank it, (good thing we have no shame) and this fun take on the french frisee et lardons salad, this one with long leaves of Romaine lettuce, poached egg, lardons and a crema fresca dressing. Springy and bright, that salad, plus the added bonus is that after you have broken the egg and it has oozed all over the lettuce, you can use the leaves as a shovel and scoop up the bits of everything else with your hands. It seems uncouth, but truly it is genius. A late night dinner brought the butternut squash soup, a tad salty but good, a gorgeously marbled Ribeye with a rosemary scented jus and some potato puree, and a crusted skate wing with a little too much balsamic redux on the plate but plenty of love nonetheless. And, I would like to mention, I believe that the skate was only $15 and the ribeye $20. That is a steal no matter how you look at it.
So, go see these guys. Take a night off from dining in the glossy halls of manhattan and do a little business in your neighborhood. The drinks are well mixed, the food is simple and well prepared and there is love going on your plate and in your glass. You can get the best, most expensive ingredients in the world and the hottest customers and the best press, but at the end of the day, it is only the guys who truly care about feeding you that make the difference. Go go go to Aces!
Aces: 36th ave between 32nd and 33rd Street
Open 7 days a week for dinner only
Cash only for now.
Pros: food is excellent and off the beaten path. Fresh, well thought out menu with stuff you want to eat. Reasonable prices, large portions, GREAT bartender, owned and operated by people who truly care.
Cons; service can be a bit slow-- kitchen could tighten time between courses. This should improve over time.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Some Updating
It seems like we always come across new and upcoming things right before they open or right when they open and haven't had a chance yet to check them out. So i thought it would be cool to take a look back at some of the "look out for..." and "coming soon..." posts we started.
• Netteria- saw it still with the paper over the windows back in January. Stopped in to the brand spankin new joint and grabbed a menu this afternoon. I can't say it looks all that promising since the lady behind the counter informed me that the prices are going to be going down a bit. Not the best location for a poor little cafe that could! It didn't look all that bad either. I'll be scanning the menu in tomorrow and will post a link here for the hungry masses.
*edited to add the menu for Netteria
• Megaro- i'm updating just for the sake of updating since the place hasn't looked open to me yet! I'm not sure if it has weird hours, or if they opened then closed in a blink of an eye or what- but the place definitley has not looked like its been up and in business since i saw it in January.
• T&H Mini Market- back in August i told you they had some cool random Asian snacks in the little market, well today i walked by and it was shuttered. 6:30pm on a monday night? Weird. Will keep an eye on it and see if it was just a fluke or if the poor folks are outtie.
• Wassi- well what can i tell you about this joint? We first told you about it way back in July. Then in January we saw that they closed. Then oh joy, last month- they were to open up as World News Cafe... I don't think that ever happened! So now as of last weeks weekend edition- we have Tell Astorya- a NEWer cafe in the spot. I passed it today and it is in fact open!
My mind is a blank for some of the other spots i should be revisiting. do you have any you can think of that were left up in the air? let me know and i'll set to investigating!
• Netteria- saw it still with the paper over the windows back in January. Stopped in to the brand spankin new joint and grabbed a menu this afternoon. I can't say it looks all that promising since the lady behind the counter informed me that the prices are going to be going down a bit. Not the best location for a poor little cafe that could! It didn't look all that bad either. I'll be scanning the menu in tomorrow and will post a link here for the hungry masses.
*edited to add the menu for Netteria
• Megaro- i'm updating just for the sake of updating since the place hasn't looked open to me yet! I'm not sure if it has weird hours, or if they opened then closed in a blink of an eye or what- but the place definitley has not looked like its been up and in business since i saw it in January.
• T&H Mini Market- back in August i told you they had some cool random Asian snacks in the little market, well today i walked by and it was shuttered. 6:30pm on a monday night? Weird. Will keep an eye on it and see if it was just a fluke or if the poor folks are outtie.
• Wassi- well what can i tell you about this joint? We first told you about it way back in July. Then in January we saw that they closed. Then oh joy, last month- they were to open up as World News Cafe... I don't think that ever happened! So now as of last weeks weekend edition- we have Tell Astorya- a NEWer cafe in the spot. I passed it today and it is in fact open!
My mind is a blank for some of the other spots i should be revisiting. do you have any you can think of that were left up in the air? let me know and i'll set to investigating!
Jolt into Spring
All day Wednesday, March 21st celebrate the first day of spring with FREE coffee. Dunkin' Donuts is offering their first ever Free Iced Coffee Day. All day long, stop into any of these local locations and get yourself a free 16-ounce iced coffee. This goes for their flavored coffees too! I know you're all aflutter and whatnot... but its still cold out :( WIll that hinder your craving? Not mine!
•4322 Ditmars Blvd • 2524 Broadway • 3114 Ditmars Blvd • 3043 STEINWAY ST • 3117 30TH AVE • 4307 Astoria Blvd • 31st. St. • 3401 Broadway
•4322 Ditmars Blvd • 2524 Broadway • 3114 Ditmars Blvd • 3043 STEINWAY ST • 3117 30TH AVE • 4307 Astoria Blvd • 31st. St. • 3401 Broadway
Friday, March 16, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 16.03.07
Well, it looks like we'll be back to winter again, what with all the snow and cold weather coming. These are the kind of days that make you just want to stay inside and stay warm. However, it's St. Patrick's Day on Saturday! Time for parades, beer...and more beer. You can head over to Manhattan for the big parade at 11am, or stay in Astoria and watch it on tv. There are a lot of great Irish pubs in town, which I am sure will be celebrating - try the Irish Rover (28th Ave at 38th Street), McCanns (Ditmars and 37th Street), Cronin and Phelan's (Broadway near 38th Street) come to mind, among others. For a non-Irish setting, the Beer Garden is having a St. Patrick's Day celebration, starting at noon. They'll prepare a classic New England Boiled Dinner (corned beef, cabbage, carrots and potatoes boiled in broth). They'll also have a live DJ playing a great variety of music in the downstairs restaurant starting at 10pm.
If you're not busy whooping it up with the Irish on Saturday, consider heading over to Athens Square (30th Avenue & 30th Street) from 5-7pm. There will be a vigil in conjunction with UFPJ's call for local actions around the fourth Anniversary of the Iraq war.
On Sunday, you can sober up at newly opened Tell Astoria Cafe (37-05 28th Ave), or have brunch at Dillinger's (30th Ave at 47th Street). That night at 7:30, Quiz Night is back at the Irish Rover! It's tons of fun, and you get a nice chunk of change if you win (I know - I was on the winning team a couple weeks ago!). Then at 9pm that night Hellgate Social will be screening blaxploitation masterpiece Three the Hard Way. Have a Hellgate Lemonade (my favorite house speciality cocktail) while you're watching.
More fun, here.
If you're not busy whooping it up with the Irish on Saturday, consider heading over to Athens Square (30th Avenue & 30th Street) from 5-7pm. There will be a vigil in conjunction with UFPJ's call for local actions around the fourth Anniversary of the Iraq war.
On Sunday, you can sober up at newly opened Tell Astoria Cafe (37-05 28th Ave), or have brunch at Dillinger's (30th Ave at 47th Street). That night at 7:30, Quiz Night is back at the Irish Rover! It's tons of fun, and you get a nice chunk of change if you win (I know - I was on the winning team a couple weeks ago!). Then at 9pm that night Hellgate Social will be screening blaxploitation masterpiece Three the Hard Way. Have a Hellgate Lemonade (my favorite house speciality cocktail) while you're watching.
More fun, here.
Reality bites
If you watch reality TV as religiously as i do then the name Josie from Top Chef will ring a bell. You'll also remember that she was uber cool but still lost :( It's our gain though!!! Look see what i yanked from this weeks Time Out:Island Café & Lounge
Top Chef contestant Josie Smith-Malave, the spiky-coiffed ex–football player, heads the kitchen at this eclectic restaurant and café. The bi-level Mediterranean spot, with bamboo and river-stone walls, is home to the only four-head Cimbali espresso machine in the U.S. 35-15 36th St between 35th and 36th Aves, Long Island City, Queens (718-433-0690).
(so they call it LIC, i still consider it Astoria!)
RightRides hits the nabe!!!
You may have heard of this awesome program before- RightRides provides free transportation home for women, trans people and gender queer individuals. Well, now my lucky friends, they have oh so kindly entered our borough and landed right smack in the middle of where we need it! So far they cover 36th Ave. at the north to Queens Plaza East/31st and 28th Street at the east (i'm not exactly sure how that works out though- need to put in a phone call). Zipcar has kindly donated 3 vehicles for the volunteers to get people moving. RightRides is currently available every Saturday night from Midnight - 3 AM late night Saturdays (aka early Sunday morning) and the Dispatch number, should you need to call for a ride home is (718) 964-7781.
Get all the details on their site. Volunteer to drive around for the night or tag along with another driver. You never know, you might just need these peeps in your corner one night. I'm probably going to look into volunteering myself a few nights, i'm just a social freak so getting new people to talk to randomly on a Saturday night sounds like fun! And its a good thing :)
Get all the details on their site. Volunteer to drive around for the night or tag along with another driver. You never know, you might just need these peeps in your corner one night. I'm probably going to look into volunteering myself a few nights, i'm just a social freak so getting new people to talk to randomly on a Saturday night sounds like fun! And its a good thing :)
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Marco Polo Gift House
Sunday just screamed "GET OUTSIDE", all too happily i did! After grabbing some brunch at Dillinger's, I headed back along 30th Ave towards Steinway. Out of the corner of my eye- an elephant stood. Oh yes, there was an elephant (statue anyway) on top of a minivan... Without hesitation I ran across the street to discover that this adorable leather elephant belonged to the Marco Polo Gift House - or as i'd like to re-christen it, the Store of Random Objects. They stock such a variety of knick knacks, things you would never imagine finding...all together. From skulls to piggies to suncatchers to mirrors to buddhas and more! The prices were right too, leaning on the window was an awesome celtic mirror about 3 feet high- $60. Might just have to stop back over for that one. They've got oils, soaps and incense as well. This could be quite the one stop shop for gift giving. I have no doubt that anyone can walk in there and easily find something for even the most ecletic friend. Super sweet staff too- gotta be to answer all the probing questions!Give them a go- if for nothing else, for the sheer novelty of shop. Fun!
Marco Polo Gift House
44-10 30th Ave.
44-10 30th Ave.
Thursday, March 08, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 9.03.07
Friday March 9th, help set the record straight... or just set it anyway.
Here we have sweet little Miss Benicia del Rio Blanco Gato. She's being fostered right now but has to go since her landlord didn't want her around! She's on their petfinder link if you're inclined...
Looking for a bottomless bloody mary or two? Dillingers Pub & Grill (46-19 30th Ave.) is here to oblige. Sundays from 11:30am to 3pm, munch on brunch. There are three choices for three different set prices, $9.95 food/no alcohol, $15.95 food & alcohol (there's your mimosa or bloody mary!), $18.95 food & alcohol & STEAK! A little something for everyone. I'm giving it a try this Sunday and will be reporting back...with pictures!
Candy Plum (30-98 36th St.) offers a freebie this weekend. Go see the ladies, mention "myspace," and walk out a proud winner of a lovely pair of earrings! Offer good only till Sunday, so do yourself a favor and check them out, especially if you still haven't after all of these months of us telling you about them!
Go out to La Vuelta Bistro (10-43 44th Drive, Long Island City) anytime after 6pm and join in helping "the Transducer" make the Guinness World Record. It's a local fund-raiser called the Great Charity Spin. There is a catch though, Guinness requires two different witnesses for every four-hour period! Stop by if you want to be one of the 44 people needed. But wait- there's more- an art exhibit, wine tastings and belly dancers fill up the rest of the night.
All is good in the world again. I just discovered a kitty rescue right around the corner! The folks at Francis's Friends Inc. are doing their darndest to find homes for these little ones. If you can't take one in, they've got other stuff that your big heart can help with including volunteering and making tax-deductible donations of money, food, and litter.
Here we have sweet little Miss Benicia del Rio Blanco Gato. She's being fostered right now but has to go since her landlord didn't want her around! She's on their petfinder link if you're inclined...Looking for a bottomless bloody mary or two? Dillingers Pub & Grill (46-19 30th Ave.) is here to oblige. Sundays from 11:30am to 3pm, munch on brunch. There are three choices for three different set prices, $9.95 food/no alcohol, $15.95 food & alcohol (there's your mimosa or bloody mary!), $18.95 food & alcohol & STEAK! A little something for everyone. I'm giving it a try this Sunday and will be reporting back...with pictures!
Candy Plum (30-98 36th St.) offers a freebie this weekend. Go see the ladies, mention "myspace," and walk out a proud winner of a lovely pair of earrings! Offer good only till Sunday, so do yourself a favor and check them out, especially if you still haven't after all of these months of us telling you about them!
Monday, March 05, 2007
Important Upcoming Meeting!
Astoria Park Meeting
Tuesday, March 13th, 6:30pm
Steinway Reformed Church
41-01 Ditmars Blvd at 41st Street
All are welcome!
Come join us for our continuing discussion regarding Astoria Park and the formation of an Astoria Park Friends group. Our last meeting brought together some nearby residents from throughout Astoria who are interested in working together to ensure the overall health of the park. But we need you, too!
We, a collective group of Astoria Park users, are interested in clean ups and gardening days, advocating for physical park improvements, partnering with other programs and events that take place in the park, environmental education, and creating literature/brochures. Please come join us to further refine these thoughts and add your own ideas at our second meeting.
If you have questions, please call Helen Ho at 718-520-5913 or e-mail at helen.ho@parks.nyc.gov.
Tuesday, March 13th, 6:30pm
Steinway Reformed Church
41-01 Ditmars Blvd at 41st Street
All are welcome!
Come join us for our continuing discussion regarding Astoria Park and the formation of an Astoria Park Friends group. Our last meeting brought together some nearby residents from throughout Astoria who are interested in working together to ensure the overall health of the park. But we need you, too!
We, a collective group of Astoria Park users, are interested in clean ups and gardening days, advocating for physical park improvements, partnering with other programs and events that take place in the park, environmental education, and creating literature/brochures. Please come join us to further refine these thoughts and add your own ideas at our second meeting.
If you have questions, please call Helen Ho at 718-520-5913 or e-mail at helen.ho@parks.nyc.gov.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Additional Weekend Fun
Forwarded to me from my friend Linda:
Set aside some time this weekend for sky watching. On Saturday night, March 3rd, there's going to be a total eclipse of the Moon. This means the Moon will glide through the heart of Earth's shadow and turn a beautiful shade of sunset red. Totality can be seen from parts of all seven continents including all of Europe and Africa and the eastern half of North America.
Visit spaceweather.com for observing tips, maps and links to live webcasts, and check out the Lunar Eclipse Gallery for photos from a similar eclipse in 2004.
Astorian Weekend Edition 02.03.07
Get ready for warmer weather this weekend! S-l-o-w-l-y we are inching toward spring, complete with rainshowers on Friday and Saturday. Sounds like an opportunity to stay indoors (and maybe order some truffles and tartes while you're at it), hang out at a local cafe, or go see a movie. By the way, did you know that admission to the AMMI galleries is free on Fridays from 4-8 pm?
Now, it has come to my attention that fun clothes live in Astoria. Stop by Candy Plum and take advantage of their new pieces - five new designers have arrived with new jewelry and clothing collections. Mimi's Closet also has a lot of beautiful clothes on sale, plus new spring lines are arriving. Same with KrisTees - her winter collection is on sale, and the beginning of her spring collection is on the racks as well. I stopped in to these places this week and saw all the lovely things available and they are definitely worth checking out.
Sparrow is now serving brunch on Sundays from 12-5pm. Mmmm...french toast. Sunday night, head over to Fatty's for their Sunday Night Social. And Lounge 47 in LIC is still holding their "10 at 10" special - on Saturday nights from 10-11pm they've got an open bar costing you just $10 for the hour. I've also enjoyed my times at Rapture Lounge, which serves good drinks and tasty food. Sunday night is Service Industry night, so bartenders you are particularly welcome!
Finally, the Astoria Symphony is playing in town this weekend (Sunday)! I hear the piano soloist, Orlando Alonso, is amazing.
More fun, here.
Now, it has come to my attention that fun clothes live in Astoria. Stop by Candy Plum and take advantage of their new pieces - five new designers have arrived with new jewelry and clothing collections. Mimi's Closet also has a lot of beautiful clothes on sale, plus new spring lines are arriving. Same with KrisTees - her winter collection is on sale, and the beginning of her spring collection is on the racks as well. I stopped in to these places this week and saw all the lovely things available and they are definitely worth checking out.
Sparrow is now serving brunch on Sundays from 12-5pm. Mmmm...french toast. Sunday night, head over to Fatty's for their Sunday Night Social. And Lounge 47 in LIC is still holding their "10 at 10" special - on Saturday nights from 10-11pm they've got an open bar costing you just $10 for the hour. I've also enjoyed my times at Rapture Lounge, which serves good drinks and tasty food. Sunday night is Service Industry night, so bartenders you are particularly welcome!
Finally, the Astoria Symphony is playing in town this weekend (Sunday)! I hear the piano soloist, Orlando Alonso, is amazing.
More fun, here.
Thursday, March 01, 2007
Time to VOTE...for food
Do what's right my peeps, log on to Time Out NY's Eat Out Awards and help our local favs reign supreme!
If you haven't tried them yet, there's still time! Go out today and sample some fine food for the greater good of Astoria. 3, that's right 3 of the 5 are places right here in our little neck of the woods. Here are the contenders:
Best new Queens restaurant
If you haven't tried them yet, there's still time! Go out today and sample some fine food for the greater good of Astoria. 3, that's right 3 of the 5 are places right here in our little neck of the woods. Here are the contenders:
Best new Queens restaurant
- *Aces
- *Il Bambino
- Jade Eatery & Lounge
- *Ovelia
- Quaint
Friday, February 23, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 23.02.07
Friday night go exploring. There's a new kind of performance space/venue in the area, and it goes by the name: Last Resort Art Space (8-63 Astoria Blvd.) The show gets started around 9 p.m. and a $4 donation is suggested - a small price to pay for a hot new party! P.S. It's BYOB, so don't show up empty handed.
The Ditmars area has gained a lovely eclectic furniture shop. Nooks & Crannies (Ditmars bet. 29th and 31st St.) has joined Inside Astoria (37-20 Ditmars Blvd) in the ranks of "new" non-bank/nail salon/$.99 shops! It's a pretty small space that used to be a dry cleaners, but seeing as how the stock moves really quickly -- they restock constantly -- there is always something new/old and affordable to catch your eye. Hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays, and no go on Sunday. Good news too, they take donations, so feel free to recycle your old kitchen chairs there.
After visiting and loving Il Bambino and all the deliciousness there, i sought out many of the ingredients to try at home. Luckily Dave & Tony's Salumeria (35-18 30th Ave.) is not only open on Sundays (8am-1pm) but they carry yummy gorgonzola dolce and my other new favorite, speck ($11 a pound is sooo doable). Grab some crusty bread and there you go, a perfect Sunday lunch.
The Ditmars area has gained a lovely eclectic furniture shop. Nooks & Crannies (Ditmars bet. 29th and 31st St.) has joined Inside Astoria (37-20 Ditmars Blvd) in the ranks of "new" non-bank/nail salon/$.99 shops! It's a pretty small space that used to be a dry cleaners, but seeing as how the stock moves really quickly -- they restock constantly -- there is always something new/old and affordable to catch your eye. Hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays, and no go on Sunday. Good news too, they take donations, so feel free to recycle your old kitchen chairs there.
After visiting and loving Il Bambino and all the deliciousness there, i sought out many of the ingredients to try at home. Luckily Dave & Tony's Salumeria (35-18 30th Ave.) is not only open on Sundays (8am-1pm) but they carry yummy gorgonzola dolce and my other new favorite, speck ($11 a pound is sooo doable). Grab some crusty bread and there you go, a perfect Sunday lunch.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Thursday is a hot one!
At Sunswick tonight (home of a zillion taps and great bar food):
at 9pm, join Anne Margaret Redding & Jeneen Terrana for an acoustic evening
At Waltz, the Blues Jam i gave you a heads up on a couple of weeks back starts tonight.
9pm, no cover but a $7 drink minimum (should be easy enough to meet that!).
Whatever your flavor, there is definitely goings on in the hood.
at 9pm, join Anne Margaret Redding & Jeneen Terrana for an acoustic evening
At Waltz, the Blues Jam i gave you a heads up on a couple of weeks back starts tonight.
9pm, no cover but a $7 drink minimum (should be easy enough to meet that!).
Whatever your flavor, there is definitely goings on in the hood.
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Pols on a Roll
Gianaris is hatin' the bedbugs (and rightly so):
Bedbugs = totally grody.
In newly introduced legislation by Assemblyman Michael Gianaris (D-Queens), a mandatory policy would be instituted notifying all parents whose children attend a bedbug-infested school of the infestation and providing them with prevention information.
Bedbugs = totally grody.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Defrosting...FINALLY
Looks like temperatures in the 40s and 50s are in our future. I am so over this icy winter, I can't even tell you, so this is welcome news!
Friday, February 16, 2007
7 Train Suspensions Getting You Down?...Demand Change!
Via Straphangers, an invitation from Eric Gioia:
Dear Friend,
Please join me tomorrow, Saturday, February 17th at 11:00 A.M. at the Vernon Jackson Subway Stop in Long Island City, to send a clear message to the MTA that the continued weekend shutdown of the 7 train is unacceptable, and to ask for more relief measures for Queens residents.
As you may already know, the MTA plans to suspend service between Times Square and 74th Street in Jackson Heights on the #7 Line, for 6 weekends, which covers the end of February and the entire month of March. Last weekend, service was also suspended between Times Square and Queensboro Plaza.
Put simply, when the #7 train is not running, the people of Queens suffer. By shutting the train down for such an extended period of time, the MTA is literally erecting a barrier for the hundreds of thousands of people who are trying to get to work, visit with friends and family, buy groceries, or visit a restaurant or museum. Having grown up here and taken the #7 train all my life, I am outraged that the MTA continues to snub the people of Queens. The letter below, which I am sending to the MTA, outlines my concerns.
I look forward to seeing you on Saturday and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me at 718.383.9566.
Sincerely yours,
Eric Gioia
Astorian Weekend Edition 16.02.07
Happy Post-Valentine's Day weekend! I hope you had a nice V-Day, regardless of your status (single or coupled). I know many Astorians who had a nice evening with friends and lovers...anniversaries were celebrated, friendships sustained, and lots of chocolate was eaten. I, myself, enjoyed Hershey's Kisses filled with caramel, given to me by my guy. Check your local CVS or Eckerd for the half-off chocolate this weekend! Temps should be above freezing, too, thank goodness.
My friend Tamara will be holding a wine tasting at Best of Broadway Wine shop (Broadway between 34th and 35th Streets) this Friday from 5-8pm. It's free! While you're in the neighborhood, stop by Le Petit Prince for some great bread or dessert. Later that night you can head over to the Tantra Lounge for their Brazilian Carnival Weekend Celebration (they're celebrating all weekend!). DJs abound, with Happy Hour from 5-9pm.
Remember Wassi, that cafe-turned-lounge on 28th Ave? It closed and opened up as the World News Cafe (37-05 28th Avenue). This weekend the Progressive Muslim Meetup group is meeting there, and they are showing Spike Lee's film, Malcom X. If you self-identify as a progressive Muslim, go ahead and RSVP. Curious as to what a "progressive Muslim" is? You can find out here. By the way, the cafe is hiring.
On the food discovery front, I've been hearing very good things about the burgers and grilled cheese at Sparrow, which finally opened their kitchen a couple weeks ago. I like the feel of Sparrow a lot; they have great beer, a few nice wines, and an unpretentious vibe. Muncan Foods (43-09 Broadway) has also come to my attention, with tempting visions of Eastern European sausages and bacon running rampant in my mind; I will visit soon. And speaking of pork products, the Beer Garden is holding their annual PorkFest. It goes through the weekend, but Sunday is the day with music and dance performances. Go and enjoy a panoply of pork products and boffo beer! And for you vegans/vegetarians, news on the street is that a new vegan/vegetarian restaurant is going to open very soon on 30th Ave. We'll keep you posted here.
More fun, here.
My friend Tamara will be holding a wine tasting at Best of Broadway Wine shop (Broadway between 34th and 35th Streets) this Friday from 5-8pm. It's free! While you're in the neighborhood, stop by Le Petit Prince for some great bread or dessert. Later that night you can head over to the Tantra Lounge for their Brazilian Carnival Weekend Celebration (they're celebrating all weekend!). DJs abound, with Happy Hour from 5-9pm.
Remember Wassi, that cafe-turned-lounge on 28th Ave? It closed and opened up as the World News Cafe (37-05 28th Avenue). This weekend the Progressive Muslim Meetup group is meeting there, and they are showing Spike Lee's film, Malcom X. If you self-identify as a progressive Muslim, go ahead and RSVP. Curious as to what a "progressive Muslim" is? You can find out here. By the way, the cafe is hiring.
On the food discovery front, I've been hearing very good things about the burgers and grilled cheese at Sparrow, which finally opened their kitchen a couple weeks ago. I like the feel of Sparrow a lot; they have great beer, a few nice wines, and an unpretentious vibe. Muncan Foods (43-09 Broadway) has also come to my attention, with tempting visions of Eastern European sausages and bacon running rampant in my mind; I will visit soon. And speaking of pork products, the Beer Garden is holding their annual PorkFest. It goes through the weekend, but Sunday is the day with music and dance performances. Go and enjoy a panoply of pork products and boffo beer! And for you vegans/vegetarians, news on the street is that a new vegan/vegetarian restaurant is going to open very soon on 30th Ave. We'll keep you posted here.
More fun, here.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
More on Astoria's Power Plants
From the Queens Gazette, new boilers are going in. Apparently these boilers are more efficient, burn natural gas instead of oil, and use less water from the East River, "significantly reducing impact on aquatic life in the river." If you have concerns or questions about this, there's a contact number at the end of the article.
Power Plant Expansion ImminentOfficials at the New York state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) are finalizing plans for the renewal of a pollution discharge permit for the Astoria Generating Station, along with plans for expansion of the plant.
The Astoria Generating Station at 18-01 20th Ave., is located within the Astoria Con Edison site. The station is one of several plants located in Astoria, where approximately 60 per cent of the city's electricity is generated.
The plant, formerly owned and operated by Orion Power and Reliant Energy, is now the property of U.S. Power Generation, officials said. State environmental officials approved expansion of the site in 2003 under plans that call for replacement of four boiler units with six turbines--changes that would increase total output by 550 megawatts, increasing output from 1,250 to 1,800 MW, officials said.
The increased production is not expected to affect air quality in the surrounding communities, state officials said. New turbines slated for installation under the plan are more efficient, and would burn natural gas as a primary fuel, they said. Boilers currently operating at the site use natural gas and oil; both generate pollutants, the officials said.
The new equipment would use approximately 95 per cent less water from the East River for its operation, significantly reducing impact on aquatic life in the river, state officials said.
DEC officials are expected to modify the permit prior to final approval to give plant owners an opportunity to study the effects of the plant's operation on fish and other organisms in the East River.
For further information or to register comments with DEC officials, write to Christopher Hogan at the state Department of Environmental Conservation, 625 Broadway, Albany, N.Y. 12233, call Hogan at 518.402.9167, or e-mail depprmt@gw.dec.state.ny.us.
Remembering Warmer Days
Remember the blackout? Of course you do! It was the longest power outage in the history of New York City! In fact, I was just talking with a woman the other day about the blackout, while it was so friggin' cold outside. The latest news from the Queens Gazette:
And:
Citing a television news report that Con Edison field crews were "clearly aware" of the seriousness of last summer's power blackout soon after it started, Assemblymember Michael Gianaris has renewed his call for the giant utility's management to be held accountable for what occurred afterward.More, here.Referring to the material shown by WABCTV last Friday evening, Gianaris said, "These tapes make clear that Con Edison knew on the first day of the blackout that more people were affected than it was reporting.
"Con Edison management recklessly endangered the lives of Western Queens residents by releasing figures that were absurdly low, and they must be held accountable for this outrageously irresponsible behavior."
And:
Following the long power outage, Gianaris formed a state Assembly Task Force that investigated what he described as the failures of the huge utility and the PSC during the Western Queens blackout. The task force, comprised of energy industry experts, issued its findings last month, identifying needed improvements for both Con Ed and the PSC. To obtain a copy of the report, contact Gianaris' office at 718-545-3889.I'm going to call and get my copy for sure.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Esparks Coffee
Yesterday I took a mini-tour of Astoria - 28th and 30th Avenues, plus a little of Steinway. Had a fantastic burger and awesome fries at Sunset Pizza (28th Ave and 46th Street), checked out Gian Piero Bakery (30th Ave in the mid-40s), where I had a lovely slice of Italian-style cheesecake. It was made from ricotta rather than cream cheese, and I liked how light it was. I'd defintely go back again, and I hear the carrot cake is awfully good, too.
I had heard about a new cafe (you all call them "coffee shops" here in the east) called Esparks, located on Steinway just north of 31st Avenue, so I checked it out as well. It's a very nice space with tasty coffee. It looks very much like a Starbucks, and the baristas there readily fess up to the comparison. It's a comfortable space and quite spacious. They have free wifi, which is cool. People are even beginning to post "missed connections" from there. There isn't any other place like it in the area, and I think it fills a real need. Below are some pictures.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Close enough...
So the closest IHOP that i can see is in Jackson Heights, but for a good cause and pancakes?!?! This may call for a little trip!A week from today, get yourself a free short stack of pancakes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., they're asking for in-store donations to the Children's Miracle Network instead.
73-01 Northern Blvd
JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372-1144
Phone: 718-429 5452
On the topic of pancakes, I hear Igloo makes quite the delicious batch- AND they have real maple syrup.... so if you're really not feeling like the trek out to JH but still want some pancakes, give them a try!
JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372-1144
Phone: 718-429 5452
On the topic of pancakes, I hear Igloo makes quite the delicious batch- AND they have real maple syrup.... so if you're really not feeling like the trek out to JH but still want some pancakes, give them a try!
Cool in Your Code: LIC
This locally made program visited LIC (link opens to a QT movie). LICNYC posted up what they covered:
LIC is the place to be!
- Wonton Foods (largest chinese fortune cookie factory anywhere)
- Steve Madden
- Manic Panic
- Vine Wine
- Noguchi Sculpture Garden (love it!)
- Manetta's
- La Vuelta (yum)
- The Creek and the Cave
- Kenny Krypton Neon's Shop and Art-O-Mat
- Subdivision
- and various other random sights
Monday, February 12, 2007
Astoria Park Meeting Reminder
Remember, the meeting about Astoria Park is tonight! 6:30pm at the Steinway Reformed Church. Hope to see you there!
Best Place to Take a First Date in Queens
is Brick Cafe, according to amNY. From the article:
I went on a first date there once, and it was nice (the meal; the date was just ok). If you want to go there for Valentine's Day, they recommend you call to make your reservations early (718-267-2735). I hear brunch is pretty good, too!
Brick Cafe, Astoria's old-world-y litle bistro, has plenty of style. Candlelight, old brick walls, a tin ceiling and antiques. The menu's nothing to sneeze at, either: try the veal chop with mushrooms and sun-dried tomatoes or the linguine with shrimps, clams, and mussels. (30-95 33rd Street, Astoria; 718-267-2735; expect to pay between $25 and $50 for a three-course dinner.)
I went on a first date there once, and it was nice (the meal; the date was just ok). If you want to go there for Valentine's Day, they recommend you call to make your reservations early (718-267-2735). I hear brunch is pretty good, too!
Friday, February 09, 2007
Turbines in the East River!
On Wednesday, I attended the Astoria/LIC Waterfront Allance meeting, and early on there was a representative/scientist from Verdant Power. She talked about the turbines being installed in the East River that generates electricity with the tides, which will be a source of green, renewable energy. From the flyer (dated 5/2006):
Well, the Gristedes is being powered already, and a number of volunteer groups have been formed to study the effects the turbines are having on the river, with regard to fish, birds, and recreation, to name a few. Also, they are going to see if the turbines affect sediment in the river. As of now, there is no sediment in the river because the water rushes by so quickly, but who knows if the turbines will slow things down, thereby creating sediment. Since the turbines have been put in, no fish have died as a result, which is good news (these turbines turn at 32 revolutions per minute, as opposed to conventional hydro-turbines, which turn at 600-700 rpm, so much safer). Eventually, if this test project succeeds, and all the turbines are installed, it could power 8,000-10,000 homes. Sounds good to me!
For more info, go to http://www.verdantpower.com
By July [2006], a Gristedes on Roosevelt Island should be drawing power from an unusual source - a turbine under the East River being driven bythye ebb and flow of the tides. A Virginia company, Verdant Power, has received the go-ahead to place the first two of six turbines in a channel of the East River to test whether they can generate electricity efficiently without disturbing the environment. One turbine will send power to the supermaket and a nearby parking garage. The other will house monitoring equipment to gauge performance. If all goes well, four more turbines will be installed soon for an 18-month test that could lead to 200-300 of the devices.
Well, the Gristedes is being powered already, and a number of volunteer groups have been formed to study the effects the turbines are having on the river, with regard to fish, birds, and recreation, to name a few. Also, they are going to see if the turbines affect sediment in the river. As of now, there is no sediment in the river because the water rushes by so quickly, but who knows if the turbines will slow things down, thereby creating sediment. Since the turbines have been put in, no fish have died as a result, which is good news (these turbines turn at 32 revolutions per minute, as opposed to conventional hydro-turbines, which turn at 600-700 rpm, so much safer). Eventually, if this test project succeeds, and all the turbines are installed, it could power 8,000-10,000 homes. Sounds good to me!
For more info, go to http://www.verdantpower.com
Astorian Weekend Edition 09.02.07
Music for Aardvarks and Other Mammals is here in Astoria! Kids of all ages are welcome to join in on the musical classes and activities. There is a free trial class this Friday (today) @ 10 a..m. in the Steinway Reformed Church (21-65 41st St). If you are interested in giving it a go, send a quick email to info@MusicForQueens.com.
The actual Winter Session begins next Friday, February 16.
Saturday night @ 9:30, our local awesome picture taker/music spinner DJ Lo-Fi, will be mixing it up with the good people over at Hell Gate Social. On top of that, no cover. Yummy drinks and a super wide variety of hot music to keep you warm on yet another cold night!
Sunday brings us our favorite Joey harspichordist in concert! That's right, our very own Meg will be treating everyone to a performance (4 to 6pm) at the Women's Studio Center. There is a small ticket charge of $10 but i can tell you it is worth it. It's not everyday that you get to hear this instrument and get a commentary by the artist.
p.s.- if you're looking for a tastey treat, our friend Michelle from JustDesserts Chocolates and Pastries is now selling her delicious scones at Freeze Peach! She still makes truffles and more goodies to order as well so just in time for Valentine's Day here's her addy for you lovely chocoholics :) JustDessertspastry@gmail.com. Get your orders in!
Get all your Astoria and Queens haps here.
The actual Winter Session begins next Friday, February 16.
Saturday night @ 9:30, our local awesome picture taker/music spinner DJ Lo-Fi, will be mixing it up with the good people over at Hell Gate Social. On top of that, no cover. Yummy drinks and a super wide variety of hot music to keep you warm on yet another cold night!
Sunday brings us our favorite Joey harspichordist in concert! That's right, our very own Meg will be treating everyone to a performance (4 to 6pm) at the Women's Studio Center. There is a small ticket charge of $10 but i can tell you it is worth it. It's not everyday that you get to hear this instrument and get a commentary by the artist.
p.s.- if you're looking for a tastey treat, our friend Michelle from JustDesserts Chocolates and Pastries is now selling her delicious scones at Freeze Peach! She still makes truffles and more goodies to order as well so just in time for Valentine's Day here's her addy for you lovely chocoholics :) JustDessertspastry@gmail.com. Get your orders in!
Get all your Astoria and Queens haps here.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
My NUT to your BOLT
I couldn't resist the urge to post this once i saw it in my inbox!!!!
How flippin awesome! I've seen this on some old TV shows growing up but never actually heard of one going on :) I might have to make it out to this one...sssshhhh don't tell the ole man at home!
Fattys Presents a PRE-VALENTINE FUN TIME!
Come along on Tuesday night for some wicked fun!
For you crazy singles we shall be handing out nuts n' bolts!
Why you ask? Simple! Find the person with your matching nut or bolt and be treated to a free 'money shot' on us! yeaaaaah!
We shall be doing drink specials all night with some silly games and nonsense and prob some daft music!
Your ever faithful Zig and Enzo will be holding down the fort.
Come along and let the good times roll! You might even get lucky!
How flippin awesome! I've seen this on some old TV shows growing up but never actually heard of one going on :) I might have to make it out to this one...sssshhhh don't tell the ole man at home!
Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Astoria-LIC Waterfront Parks Alliance Meeting
From Emily Maxwell at Parks. I plan to attend the first part and hope to see you there, too!
Join us to help figure what we can do to improve our Astoria/LIC waterfront parks and our waterfront as a whole. This month's meeting will focus in roles and responsibilities in ALWPA. Come together with friends and neighbors to re-envision our waterfront and improve our neighborhood.
All Are Welcome!
Wednesday, February 7, 6pm
Greater Astoria Historical Society
Quinn Building, 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor
For more info, please call 718-706-8044, 917-902-9165 or email Emily.Maxwell@parks.nyc.gov
Join us to help figure what we can do to improve our Astoria/LIC waterfront parks and our waterfront as a whole. This month's meeting will focus in roles and responsibilities in ALWPA. Come together with friends and neighbors to re-envision our waterfront and improve our neighborhood.
All Are Welcome!
Wednesday, February 7, 6pm
Greater Astoria Historical Society
Quinn Building, 35-20 Broadway, 4th Floor
For more info, please call 718-706-8044, 917-902-9165 or email Emily.Maxwell@parks.nyc.gov
Monday, February 05, 2007
East River Tributaries: Hallets Cove
Great article on Hallets Cove over on Waterwire. An excerpt:
Makes me want to learn more about this wonderful little spot, and check it out in person!
Only a few intrepid water lovers have dipped their toes into Hallets Cove in recent decades. Stalwart anglers never stopped throwing their lines into this Queens waterway from the bulkhead running alongside Vernon Boulevard, a promenade running under the Astoria Houses to the northern side of the cove and the rocky slopes of Socrates Sculpture Park to the south. But pollution including floatable debris, and inexperience with the water, have discouraged generations of New Yorkers from taking advantage of the easy pedestrian access from Vernon Boulevard to explore the cove.
But lately the neighborhoods of Astoria and Ravenswood are reawakening to the potential of this quiet curve of water.
Makes me want to learn more about this wonderful little spot, and check it out in person!
Blues & Beer at Waltz
At the ever expanding Waltz this month, we get to broaden our musical horizons with a night of the blues! Starting February 22nd, bring your chops and your acoustic instrument of choice and sign up at 8:30 to jam out with other jammy folks every fourth Thursday.It looks like Waltz is going to run out of nights to have events! We have comedy night, open mic night, jazz night and then there's tastings too. Waltz continues to hook up Astoria and its residents with wonderful entertainment and performances.
- oh and did i mention there is a beer tasting this Thursday?!?!?! Get there at 9pm and bring $10. You'll get to try 6 different NY State microbrews and hors d'oeuvres!
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Astoria Park Loves You!
This meeting has to do with the formation of an Astoria Park group. I'll be there, and I hope you will be, too!
From Parks:
Currently, we are in the beginning phases of forming an Astoria Park group. The group hopes to bring together nearby residents and organizations to work together to ensure the overall health of the park. We are currently a collective group of Astoria Park users interested in clean ups and gardening days, advocating for physical park improvements, partnering with other program and events that take place in the park, environmental education, and creating literature/brochures. As you can see we have generated many ideas in a short period of time! Please come join us refine these thoughts and add your own ideas in one of our first meetings on February 12th at 6:30pm in the basement of the Steinway Reformed Church.
When: Monday, February 12th, 6:30pm
Where: Steinway Reformed Church, 41-01 Ditmars Blvd at 41st Street
Who: All are welcome!
More info: If you have questions please call Helen Ho at 718-520-5913 or e-mail at helen.ho@parks.nyc.gov. Helen works with Partnerships for Parks, who also happens to be an Astoria resident.
From Parks:
Currently, we are in the beginning phases of forming an Astoria Park group. The group hopes to bring together nearby residents and organizations to work together to ensure the overall health of the park. We are currently a collective group of Astoria Park users interested in clean ups and gardening days, advocating for physical park improvements, partnering with other program and events that take place in the park, environmental education, and creating literature/brochures. As you can see we have generated many ideas in a short period of time! Please come join us refine these thoughts and add your own ideas in one of our first meetings on February 12th at 6:30pm in the basement of the Steinway Reformed Church.
When: Monday, February 12th, 6:30pm
Where: Steinway Reformed Church, 41-01 Ditmars Blvd at 41st Street
Who: All are welcome!
More info: If you have questions please call Helen Ho at 718-520-5913 or e-mail at helen.ho@parks.nyc.gov. Helen works with Partnerships for Parks, who also happens to be an Astoria resident.
NY Mag Loves Us
"Us", being Joey in Astoria. They also like to talk about Astoria, and mentioned our fair neighborhood again in the most recent edition. I noticed in their Daily Intelligencer that they always reference this very blog when talking about Astoria. Who knew?
A big thank you to all our readers for helping to make us a valuable community resource!
A big thank you to all our readers for helping to make us a valuable community resource!
Friday, February 02, 2007
Astorian Weekend Edition 02.02.07
There's more then football going on this weekend!Friday night, Hellgate Social is the place to be for their V-Day NYC 2007 Variety Show and Spectacular!
Doors open at 8 p.m. and it's $10 to get in. Covers usually aren't my fav, but you get a lot of bang for your buck and the proceeds go to "The Center Against Domestic Violence" and "Women in Conflict Zones." Live music, dance, djs, and the best part... The Gotham Girls Roller Derby. I know for a fact that some other Astorian ladies cheer for these gals- fun stuff.
Saturday do something different. At Communitea (technically LIC) get your Tu B'Shvat on! Kosher wine and exotic fruits abound to celebrate the new year for trees. There is a cover, but only $10 and you get to try something new! Starts at 7:30pm but try to RSVP ahead of time- jcclic@gmail.com.
Want to drink closer to home? Come for tastings the Happy Liquor Store (34-15 31st Ave) every Friday & Saturday evening (6:30-10 p.m.). A liquor store named Happy serving free booze? I'd say!
If your TV at home isn't big enough, the folks at Indigo (28-50 31st St) will totally share their several large flatscreens for prime Superbowl watching on Sunday. Come hungry because for $20 you get to go in on the huge halftime buffet. Don't want to think about keeping a tab? $60 will get you a complete Superbowl ticket (open bar from kickoff to the end of the game and the buffet.)
There will also be raffle tickets for a mountain bike and prizes and giveaways!
- this just in from my newest-favoritest-cutest-restaurant in the nabe Il Bambino (34-08 31st Ave, 718-626-0087). Give Darren a ringie and order up a panini basket for the big game! They are absolutley to die for. I just had the prosciutto, gorgonzola dolce and fig spread the other night!) Can't go wrong with anything that guy makes. Here's a peak at it....yum
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