Joey in Astoria

Astorian Weekend Edition 25.11.09

2009-11-25T13:39:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Thus starts the official holiday season. Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with friends and family, expressing gratitude, and of course, eating! Judith has a great rundown on places to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner in town, so if you are not preparing the meal yourself, here's some excellent options where you can get some local deliciousness in your belly.

Friday hails Black Friday, and boy do retailers need your business. One local Astoria business that I particularly love is The Little Soap Shop. Vivian is holding a sale, natch, so you'll find 20% off everything in her store that day, from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. One thing she makes that I especially love is a citrus lavender reed diffuser, which users wooden reeds sipped in scented oil to spread a wonderful fresh aroma throughout the room. And how about SITE's cupcake ornaments! How cute are they?!? They look good enough to eat!

On Sunday, stop by Immaculate Conception School (21-63 29th Street) for their Annual Flea Market. The event lasts from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Vine Wine in LIC (12-09 Jackson Ave) will be open tonight until 11:00 p.m. - score! if you're still in need of happy libations. And on Thanksgiving Day, they are open from 10:00 am to 4:00pm! Tonight's wine tasting (5:30-8:30 p.m.) will involve three of their six Thanksgiving-themed wines. They've even boxed up these wines in a cute carrying case for your convenience. There is a $50 box and a $75 box, both saving you approximately $15 each.

Mix (40-17 30th Ave) is a new cafe/lounge in Astoria, and they hold a stich n' bitch each Saturday starting at noon. If you knit, crochet or partake in any other fiber craft, come on by to enjoy fellow needle nerds, and perhaps you'll even come away with something new for your stash. What a nice way to spend an afternoon.

Since the kids are home (including kids at heart) this weekend, The Museum of the Moving Image (35th Avenue at 37th Street) will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during Thanksgiving weekend with hourly screenings of short animated films from Pixar. Screenings will take place in Tut's Fever Movie Palace, and will include Luxo, Jr. (1986, 2 mins); For the Birds (2000, 3 mins); Jack-Jack Attack (2005, 5 mins); and Presto (2008, 5 mins).

Finally Fridays - Dessert

2009-11-20T12:06:00.002-05:00

Want to indulge in something sweet after a long, arduous week? In this Finally Fridays, we pay homage to the sweet tooth, as we reveal our top 5 picks for Astorian desserts.

Cara Bella - Profiteroles with chocolate sauce, chocolate gelato and fresh raspberries
47-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.956.1101

Vesta - Baby Jesus Cake. Crispy, warm cake with butterscotch sauce and fresh whipped cream
21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

Martha's Bakery - Vanilla butter cream cupcake with M&Ms

36-21 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.545.9737

Djerdan - Keks torta, layered custard cake, a bit like Tiramisu
34-04A 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.2694

Laziza - Assortment of cookies and cakes - coconut-almond cake, baklava, pistachio and date cookies
25-78 Steinway Street, Astoria. 718.777.7676

Hope these satisfy your sweet tooth - please chime in with your personal favorites.

Astoria's Famous Bulldogs

2009-11-19T15:09:00.000-05:00

Image by nytimes.com

Reading this sweet story in the New York Times, passed along to me by the Jumping Bulldog's owner, Tanja Firrigno warmed my heart. Featured in last weekend's NY Times, this cheery and touching feature explores a community of French Bulldogs that are the latest trend in Astoria. The story goes into some detail about the unique nuances of this breed and even sheds light on specific doggies and their families. This line especially made me smile: Jack (the bulldog) looked up at her and smiled like a clown. On command, he gave Mr. Herman a high-five with his petite paw, and they continued down the street.

Enjoy the article and please pass on to others with pets.

Astorian Weekend Edition 19.11.09

2009-11-19T10:13:00.001-05:00

The weekend before Thanksgiving is a good time to chill before all the big holiday get-togethers. Check out a fun, casual eatery, watch football or enjoy a party at the Beer Garden.

Have you been to Stamatis yet? It’s an old Greek food staple in the heart of Astoria and their food is legit. Recommendations include the tzatziki dip and the chicken souvlaki platter. 29-09 23rd Avenue, Astoria. 718.721.4507

This Friday, check out Mezzo Mezzo for their 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. happy hour. They’ll feature a signature free buffet, $4 draft beers, house wines and $12 hookah. 31-29 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.278.0444

Toast to freedom this Saturday (5 p.m.) at the Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden, when they’ll celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Velvet Revolution. Admission is free and they’ll have $2 wine, vodka shots, Czech liquor and $10 pitchers of Czech beer. Nazdravie! 29-19 24th Avenue, Astoria. 718.274.4925

Are you ready for some football? There are plenty of great places where you could catch the game but two in particular include Gleason’s, where on Sunday they serve 25 cent wings, and also the newly-opened Yolo, which has a $10.95 weekend brunch special. Gleason’s – 33-08 Broadway, Astoria. 718.626.5393. Yolo - 22-55 31st Street, Astoria. 718.777.1177

If you’re in the mood for something low-key, visit 24 Wine Bar (pictured above) this weekend. New things happening here include press coffee, vegan brownies, muffins and free wifi. Brunch may be in the works soon so check back to find out more. 25-19 24th Avenue, Astoria. 347.777.6164

Weekend Edition 11.11.09

2009-11-11T12:33:00.005-05:00

Can you believe it is November already? All this warm weather we’ve been having makes me want to head to one of our amazing local parks and enjoy the last bits of Fall.

This weekend is the Queens Film Festival, which showcases the diversity of our borough and features a wide variety of films being screened in multiple locations around our neighborhood. Check here for the venues, dates, and times. The opening party is Thursday at the Hotel Ravel.

Have you all heard about The Secret Theater? No? Now is a great time to check them out. This Thursday they are debuting their latest play, Cyrano De Bergerac, The classic story of how the disfigured genius, poet and dashing swordsman, Cyrano, falls in love with Roxanne. Runs through Dec. 5th. The Secret Theatre, 44-02 23rd St.Long Island City.

This Sunday try something a new! Holistic health counselor Kristy Bredin will be teaching a class on traditionally fermented miso. Learn the health benefits and make a batch from scratch. More info (including registration details) here.

Enjoy a relaxing brunch at Bistro Les Minots, and get a great deal with their new $13.95 prix-fixe brunch menu which includes 2 drinks with your meal. On Sundays, listen to singer Andrew Gottlieb and enjoy the newly installed show by Painter Gabriele Perici while you eat. Bistro LesMinots 47-16 30th Avenue.

{Photo from Harris Graber's Flickr photo set!}

Finally Fridays - Burgers

2009-11-06T15:11:00.009-05:00

Friday is here and we couldn't be happier. This week's Finally Fridays focuses on a comfort food that's hard to beat--burgers. Here are our top 5 picks for traditional and not-so-ordinary boighahs.

Sparrow Burger - Grass fed burger with thick-cut bacon and herbed fries
24-01 29th Street, Astoria. 718.606.2260

Sweet Afton Burger - Organic beef, Gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, sweet brioche bun
30-09 34th Street, Astoria. 718.777.2570

BareBurger Lamburger - Lamb patty, yogurt sauce, caramelized onions, 7 grain bun
33-21 31st Avenue, Astoria. 718777.7011

Indigo Turkey Burger - Turkey, toasted sesame seed bun, hand cut fries, cranberry mayo
28-50 31st Street, Astoria. 718.728.0050

Fatty's Turkey Burger - Turkey, jalapeno mayo, peppers, onions and a side of house salad
25-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.267.7071

Enjoy these fun varieties and let us know your personal burger faves.

Astorian Weekend Edition, 05.11.09

2009-11-05T00:00:00.002-05:00

This weekend brings us Leaf Fest, right here at Astoria Park. The Astoria Park Alliance, working with the Queens Botanical Garden/Queens Compost Project, is collecting your fall leaves for composting (volunteers will turn the pile and gardeners will be able to partake in the compost come spring). Bring them with you to the Astoria Park parking lot on Sunday the 8th, between 11 a.m and 1 p.m., and volunteers will be happy to collect what you have. You'll be able to learn more about composting, too. If you can, please bring any non-perishable food items to donate to local food pantries. Leaf Fest continues on Sunday the 15th and 22nd, too.

Craving pork by chance? Head over to Sac's on Broadway for their annual pig roast. Around 8 p.m. on Thursday night the pig (actually two of them) will be cooked to the point of juicy deliciousness, having roasted on a spit all day. Call 718-204-5002 for reservations on Thursday, November 5 and Thursday, November 12. Sac's is at 25-41 Broadway.

Rèst Âü Ránt, home of the diacriticals, is turning two this weekend! Saturday hails their anniversary party, complete with live music, specials, passed hors d'ouvres and more! Party starts at 9, yum. The fun lives at 30-01 35th Avenue.

Remember the crap weather on October 24th? It totally harshed the plans for It's My Park Day at Queensbridge Park, so much so that they had to postpone it! Good news: this Saturday's the day! The event starts at 10 a.m. and goes til 2 p.m. Consider registering if you're part of a group (contact greenshoresnyc@yahoo.com to register or if you have questions). Snacks and supplies will be provided for all volunteers.

Finally, Waltz Astoria (23-14 Ditmars Boulevard) presents The Ultimate Singer-Songwriter Contest. Details for contestants are here, and it looks like it could be a really good time. The festivities start at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and the Sunday finale starts at 8 p.m. Come see and support great local talent. Also try the pumpkin pie - it's totally NOM-able.

Rèst Âü Ránt's 2nd Anniversary Party

2009-11-01T01:54:00.000-04:00

Rèst Âü Ránt is two years old this November! They are going to celebrate by inviting you to enjoy good times with them. Details:

Let us thank you once again for helping us through to our second birthday! Join us at our anniversary party on Saturday, November 7th at 9 p.m. Enjoy live music, specials, passed hors d'ouvres and more!

Saturday, November 7, 2009 at 9:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 8, 2009 at 4:00 a.m.
30-01 35th Avenue
[Facebook]

And the Winner is...

2009-10-30T12:58:00.004-04:00

We promised you a random drawing, and random it was.

The winner of the Forking Fantastic cookbook is (drumroll...)

MissCQ who said this about her favorite dinner dish:

For an everyday, make-after-getting-home-from-work-at-8:30 dish, homemade burritos. It's so easy to add a different pepper to the sauce, switch out the meat of the cheese and experiment with different kinds of beans. Put it on a low-calorie tortilla, and it's pretty healthy too!

Congrats MissCQ! Please email us your mailing address and we'll send you the fabulous Forking Fantastic cookbook.

Finally Fridays - Pizza

2009-10-30T10:05:00.009-04:00

Before you officially start your weekend, we wanted to leave you with one last thing to chew on--pizza!

In no particular order, here are five recos for that great pizza bite. Oh and expect other Finally Fridays in the coming weeks...

Vesta's Hangover Pizza - crispy thin dough with a fried egg on top, it's perfect for brunch
21-02 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.545.5550

Testaccio's Stone Oven Prosciutto Pizza - salty and slightly smoky with well done edges
47-30 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.937.2900

Manducatis Rustica's Diavola Pizza - thin crust pizza with sausage and sweet black olives
46-35 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.937.1312

718's Tarte Flambee - sort of like pizza but thinner and flakier with crumbled bacon on top
35-01 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.204.5553

Da Franco's Pizza Alla Modena - brick oven pie with fresh muzz, arugula, prosciutto, etc.
23-92 21st Street, Astoria. 718267.0010

Take a bite out of that and enjoy!

Astorian Spooktacular Weekend Edition 29.10.09

2009-10-29T09:50:00.004-04:00

Image by marthastewart.com

Halloween is here! And that means plenty of fun, silliness and of course, dressing up. In addition to the many Halloween goings-on, check out these cultural and food happs in your neck of the woods.

Still can’t decide what you’re doing for Halloween? We have some fabulous options– ranging from a masquerade ball to the “biggest outdoor Halloween party in Queens.” If you’re still looking for more, check out some of my restaurant-focused recos.

Have you checked out the newest fooderies in LIC? Testaccio Ristorante, focused on contemporary Roman cuisine opened last weekend and El*Ay*Si is still in previews, holding tastings this week. I’ve tried both and think they’re worth checking out—especially the delicious stone oven pizza at Testaccio. Testaccio - 47-30 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.937.2900. El*Ay*Si – 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.389.8781

We just got news that a new bar opened in Astoria in a nabe that’s starting to buzz with activity (upper 30th Avenue). The place is called Radio Bar & Grill and they boast a “killer burger” and plenty of beers on tap. They’ll host a Halloween party on Saturday, which could be a good opportunity to check them out. 49-18 30th Avenue, Astoria. 718.204.6892

Want to do something cultural this weekend? Visit P.S.1 MOMA and explore their seven (yes seven!) new art exhibits. One that particularly caught my interest spotlights a tumultuous year, 1969 and is a collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs and prints. P.S.1 MOMA – 22-25 Jackson Avenue, LIC. 718.784.2084

One of my favorite vintage furniture shops both in Astoria and LIC is Nook n’ Crannie. If you haven’t been, I highly encourage it. They sell the most wonderful, gently used items such as furniture, accessories, paintings and nostalgic gifts. Proceeds benefit the Betel of America charity. Astoria - 29-18 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria. 718.204.8399. LIC - 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.706.6477

Anna Fleshler at Mundo

2009-10-27T13:43:00.004-04:00

One of the things I love about Mundo (and there are oh, so many) is their dedication to local art. In a neighborhood full of talent, it's great to see local business support artists in a tangible way. Their current show is by Anna Fleshler, whose work is full of feminine icons, pop art influence, and saturated in color. She has a great variety of her paintings available for purchase, most at really reasonable prices.

Also not to miss- Mundo's rendition of Gluhwein, a warmed spice wine, perfect for chilly Fall nights. Available seasonally only, and only $5 for a glass, or $20 for a pitcher.

Halloween in Astoria

2009-10-23T11:50:00.003-04:00

Halloween is almost upon us! There are a number of events going on in the neighborhood, and here's what we know so far. All events start the evening of Halloween proper, October 31. If you know of any additional partays, please post in the comments!

Halloween at Sweet Afton

after dark and into the night...
30-09 34th Street
Astoria
Best Costume Grande Prize: all you can eat & drink evening for two at Sweet Afton.
[website]

Halloween Masquerade at Domaine Bar A Vins

5:30 p.m. to 4:30 a.m.
50-04 Vernon Boulevard
Long Island City
[Facebook]
You are spookily invited to Domaine Wine Bar Masquerade Bash on Saturday, November 31st....come drink, dance, haunt and bite with us...

Hell Gate Social Halloween Bash

7:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
12-21 Astoria Boulevard
Astoria
[Facebook]
The fun starts off w/ DJ Belladonna spinning the scariest grooves this side of the Mississippi. She will then hand off the reigns to the Two Bloody Tampons who will continue the mayhem. And let's not forget the Costume Contest.... and all the fun games we have planned (scary movie clip contest, mummy wrap contest, and Mad Libs).

Why Leave Astoria?! Halloween Party at Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden

8:00 p.m.
29-19 24th Avenue
Astoria
[RSVP]
WLA?! is putting together the biggest outdoor Halloween party in Queens as we again invade Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden. There will be live bands, drink specials, prizes for best costumes, Halloween games, a DJ, and most importantly, a beer garden!

Halloween Extravaganza at The Creek LIC

8:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
10-93 Jackson Avenue
Long Island City
[Facebook]
Come support Promethean Theatre Company as we celebrate Halloween with drink specials, tarot cards, live music, beer pong and lots more! Don't forget to come dressed in your favorite costume (contest!) to compete for cool prizes. $10.00 donation ($15.00 if you don't have a costume).

Halloween Party at Rèst Âü Ránt

9:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m.
30-01 35th Avenue
Astoria
[Facebook]
Join us for our 2nd annual Halloween Party! We will have party favors, food, and drink specials, and best costume prizes!

The Zombie Stomp Social at Shillelagh Tavern

9:00 p.m.
47-22 30th Avenue
Astoria
[astorians]
Don’t miss this ferociously ghoulish party at Shillelagh in Astoria. AM&A presents games and a costume contest with a cash prize!! $10 cover.

Halloween Masquerade Ball at Ovelia Psistaria Bar

11:00 p.m. to 4:20 a.m.
34-01 30th Avenue
Astoria
[Facebook]
Enjoy Halloween festivities in an intimate venue with good friends, music, drinks and costumes!

Welcome 2 New LIC Eateries

2009-10-23T10:13:00.014-04:00

The already tough question of "where to eat in LIC" got even tougher with the entrance of two new promising restaurants, Testaccio and El*Ay*Si. Both places are located on Vernon Blvd--actually just steps away from each other. The competition will be fierce but hopefully both places will get a piece of the proverbial pie. Here's more information about both eateries:

Testaccio Ristorante: 47-30 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.937.2900

Cuisine: Contemporary Roman such as thin crust stone oven pizzas, charcuterie such as prosciutto, cheeses, and fresh pastries such as mascarpone filled purses with fresh raspberries. Click here for menu.
Chef: Ivan Beacco, former Chef de Cuisine at Pepolino Restaurant and former Executive Chef at Borgo Antico
Decor: Modern, warm and non-pretentious. Atmosphere can be both romantic and social.
Opening: This Saturday, October 24th
Special Features: Stone oven pizza, fun kids menu
Price Range: Appetizers: $6-$15, Pasta: $10-$17, Pizza: $10-$14, Entrees: $16-$30, Kids Menu: $6-$10

El*Ay*Si: 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC. 718.389.8781

Cuisine: Comfort food such as spicy fried chicken, dijon-crusted flank steak, caramelized apples, roasted corn on the cob, etc. Final menu not yet available.
Chef: Christopher Frakes former chef at E.U. and Butcher Bay
Decor: Modern, semi-rustic (exposed brick walls, vintage mirrors)
Opening: TBD
Special Features: Chef's tastings next week - see more details on their Facebook page

Astorian Weekend Edition 22.10.09

2009-10-22T14:58:00.001-04:00

What a wonderful week! Such great weather to explore Astoria and more this weekend. Start this Thursday with local artist Juan Pablo Bohorquez’s art at Modern Spaces Reality. Check out some great paintings, support local art, and have a bite from the not-yet-opened El Ay Si restaurant, which’ll be catering the event. Modern Spaces Reality 47-34 Vernon Blvd. Long Island City NY 11101 6:30 - 9:30 PM

In the mood for even more art? Flux Factory, a fantastic art space and artist incubator, will be talking about the experimental Punk/New Wave Scene in Germany in the 80’s. Artist Marin Buesser will be talking about the influential punk movement, the artists involved in inspiring it, and playing music from the era. Flux Factory, 3921 29th street. Suggestion donation of $10. 7:30pm.

Though not technically in our part of the borough, my inner foodie can’t over look the Edibile Queens sponsored Jackson Heights Food & Film Festival this Saturday. Sample appetizers from Jackson Diner, Novo Restaurant and Lounge, Uncle Peter's Bar and Grill, Rajbhog, Espresso 77 and Lety's Pastry and Cafe. Tickets and more info here.

Also Saturday, don’t miss the American Songbook show at Frank Sinatra School of the Arts.

The beginning of fall and winter means giving your body a little extra dry weather TLC. Why not stock up on amazing, locally made treatments, balms and soaps at Little Soap Shop? Their products are environmentally friendly, animal cruelty free, and often organic. 2207 36th Street (at Ditmars).

This Sunday, the 25th, Hell Gate Social and Bistro 33 team up to present a unique Martinis and Maki party! Chef Gary is preparing some special sushi behind the bar from 8-11pm. Sounds like a fun event, and if you’ve never been to HGS, you’re in for a treat. Hell Gate Social 12-21 Astoria Blvd, (btwn 12th & 14th St).

*Photo above by Local Artist Cristine Cluff. For more of her Astoria photography, click here.

Win the NEW Forking Fantastic Cookbook!

2009-10-21T16:48:00.005-04:00

Forking Fantastic! Yes, it certainly is...

Not only is Forking Fantastic, the name of a cleverly titled cookbook, it also happens to be written by two Astoria cooks, foodies, enthusiasts and simply great women--Zora O'Neill and Tamara Reynolds, hosts and founders of the Sunday Night Dinner supper club.

If you know anything about this duo and their supper club, you won't be surprised to find Forking Fantastic full of Zora and Tamaraisms--irreverent, endearing commentary brought forth in a colorful, funny and informative book about food, dining and being a superb host.

We're extremely proud of our Astorian chicas and the critics haven't been too harsh either. Just check out these fabulous reviews from some pretty high-profile folks.

"I love these girls and their tasty, delicious, no-nonsense cooking."- Jamie Oliver

"This eccentrically enjoyable book by two strange and wonderful women may well be the cookbook America needs right now. Fun, deliberately unintimidating and filled with interesting-even ingenious-recipes, it inspires the non-professional to raise their game-and have a good time while doing so. Both book and authors are clearly good for the world."-Anthony Bourdain

"In Forking Fantastic, Tamara and Zora share their gift of creating easy and delicious meals with wonderful stories, tips, and recipes--reminding us all that good food is about sitting around a table and eating, drinking, talking, and laughing." -Ana Sortun, chef/owner of Oleana Restaurant and author of Spice

Here's your chance to score a FREE copy. Comment on this post and tell us about your favorite dinner dish. We'll be choosing a lucky winner at random on Friday, October 30th. Good luck!

And if you don't win, you can always buy their book on Amazon.

Reactions to the Recent Debate

2009-10-21T14:13:00.000-04:00

As mentioned last week, there was a debate on Monday evening among the candidates for City Council: Peter Vallone Jr., Lynne Serpe, and Gerald Kahn. The Daily News published this yesterday:

Underdog Green party raise big cash in push for upset of Peter Vallone Jr.
By Nicholas Hirshon
Wednesday, October 21st 2009, 1:55 AM

Aspiring to topple Queens' most enduring political dynasty, an upstart City Council candidate in Astoria will have more than double the campaign cash of Democratic incumbent Peter Vallone Jr. in the race's final stretch.

The camp of Green Party contender Lynne Serpe plans to use her $100,000 war chest - about $80,000 from public matching funds - to inundate voters with mailings and TV commercials ahead of the Nov. 3 election.

Vallone, meanwhile, said on Tuesday that he has just $40,000 left after forgoing matching funds - arguing their use by an incumbent wastes taxpayer dollars.

More here.

Eco-Friendly Event at Rejuvenate Spa

2009-10-21T07:20:00.000-04:00

There's a very cool event from Rejuvenate Spa coming our way this Thursday! Details below:

Please join us for an Eco-Friendly product event on Thursday, October 22nd from 7 - 10 p.m!

Meet like-minded individuals, exchange ideas with others passionate about change, sustainability and health.

We will be featuring all natural, botanical and organic skin care products, luxurious hand and body creams / scrubs, elegant candles, aromatic room diffusers and so much more.... All GREEN of course!

Enjoy refreshments and an assortment of healthy organic snacks compliments of Fresh Start Organic Market.

FREE GIFTS:
Receive a chic, reusable, tote bag from Rejuvenate Face and Body and take 10% off all products you can fit in your tote bag!

*RSVP to receive a complimentary tote bag and discounts at: info@rejuvenatenyc.com

Enter a raffle to win the following from Rejuvenate Face and Body:

~A salicylic peel
~30 min. Swedish massage
~Bikini wax

An added bonus for Pet Owners. Enter a raffle to win (1) one free 30 minute walk for your dog! Also any dog owner will enjoy the complimentary roll of 100% biodegradable doggy bags courtesy of My Dog Needs A Walk.

Rejuvenate Face & Body
26-17 23 Avenue
Astoria, NY 11105
718-626-4434
www.rejuvenatenyc.com

P.S.1 Fall Exhibitions Opening

2009-10-19T06:26:00.003-04:00

Although Warm Up is over, PS 1 is ready for plenty of activity this fall. Sunday, October 25 hails the Fall Exhibitions Opening. Come by between noon and 6 p.m to view 1969, 100 Years (version #2, ps1, nov 2009), Between Spaces, and Robert Bergman: Selected Portraits.

Check out the Afterparty by MOS, winners of the 2009 Young Architects Program in the courtyard. It will be on view through October 26.

[Image from ps1.org]

American Songbook at Frank Sinatra

2009-10-17T15:45:00.004-04:00

Some of the amazingly talented kids from the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts stopped in other day to tell me about their upcoming show, American Songbook. The variety show is open to the public and features classic American standards and pop hits performed by the students. Ticket price includes the show and light food. Check out some super local talent and an amazing building- I’ve had the good fortune to be able to check it out and it really is a stunning addition to the area!

There are three shows, Oct 23rd at 7pm, Oct. 24th at 7pm, and Oct. 25th at 6pm.

Frank Sinatra School of the Arts
35-12 35TH AVENUE

I Vant To Take Your Blood!

2009-10-17T01:05:00.001-04:00

No, this isn't about vampires. It is about an upcoming blood drive! On Saturday, October 24 come on down to Club Fitness (31-11 Broadway) and give blood, an act which could potentially save the lives of others. Free, confidential HIV testing will also be available. No appointment necessary!

As a thank you, Club Fitness will offer $100 dollars off an annual membership and a free personal training membership to all those guests that donate blood!

This important event is brought to you by Elmhurst Hospital, HAFNYC, Club Fitness NY, and the Lynne Serpe for City Council Campaign.

So, the details:
Blood Drive and HIV testing
Club Fitness NY
31-11 Broadway (map)
Astoria, NY
RSVP on Facebook!

Who can give blood?
http://www.nyc.gov/html/hhc/qhn/html/blood_info.html

Free, no cost confidential HIV testing. No appointment needed.
http://freehivtesting.hafnyc.org/node/1

Two Upcoming Halloween Events

2009-10-16T05:33:00.000-04:00

Halloween is coming up, of course! Notice of a couple of Astoria/LIC-based Halloween parties have crossed my desk, so here are the details for October 31st fun in the hood:

Join wine bar Rèst Âü Ránt for their Night of Mayhem. Party favors, food and drink specials will be available, as well as prizes for best costumes. They'll go from 9:00pm to 4:00am. They are located 30-01 35th Avenue. RSVP on Facebook, here.

Why Leave Astoria?! is invading Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden! Festivities start at 8:00 p.m.: "WLA is putting together the biggest outdoor Halloween party in Queens as we again invade Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden. There will be live bands, drink specials, prizes for best costumes, Halloween games, a DJ, and most importantly, a beer garden!" The (original!) Beer Garden is located at 29-19 24th Ave. RSVP, here.

NEW LOCATION for the Gathering at the Gantries

2009-10-15T15:00:00.000-04:00

I just got an email from the organizers behind Gather at the Gantries. Thanks to the coming crap weather this weekend, they are going move everything inside. I am not pleased with mother nature this weekend.

AM&A is sorry to report that the weather is reported to be inclement and quite chilly on Saturday so the festival has been moved to Shillelagh Tavern in Astoria. Artwork will still be displayed. The schedule of bands to perform is subject to change but the line-up is generally the same except for one or two acts and we will start an hour later.

1:00 pm Rebel Rose MAY bring the kids to Shillelagh
1:30 (tent.) Sean Wiggins
2:00 Os Clavelitos
3:00 Plasma
4:00 Stone Robot
5:00 The Jamies

We would have loved to bring the music to Gantry Plaza State Park and to share the day with the other groups that were participating. And thank you for continuing to support local talent!!
Best,
AM&A

Astorian Weekend Edition 15.10.09

2009-10-15T03:39:00.012-04:00

Well, it's mid-October already, and it's hard to believe the holidays are just around the corner! Halloween is almost here, changing our clocks is coming up, and it keeps feeling like fall around here. Enjoy these cool, crisp days around neighborhood, perhaps enjoying a bowl of warm soup at Il Bambino (34-08 31st Ave), a hot potato at La Papa (25-13 30th Ave), or a pot of tea at Himalyan Teahouse (33-17 31st Ave).

Thursday night brings a fashion event to Astoria via KrisTees and Candy Plum. Their second annual Fashion: Astoria Style show should be a lot of fun, taking place at Central Lounge (which has sushi!). Doors open at 6 p.m., show begins at 8 p.m., and entrance comes with your RSVP (astoriafashion@gmail.com or call 718.721.2299). Central Lounge is at 20-30 Steinway.

The first game of the ALCS and NLCS (Baseball Championship Series) starts Friday, and the Yankees are in it to win it. Newcomer YOLO is a nice place to catch the game (by the way, they have a $22 happy hour special that includes a pitcher of beer and a large plain pizza), and I'm sure neighborhood favorites like the Irish Rover and McCanns will be busting with excitement to see the home team triumph. The ALCS games (Yanks vs Angels) take place on Friday and Saturday, with a game time of 7:57 p.m. for both.

Head over to Socrates on Saturday for their Halloween Harvest Festival. Fun for all for sure. That night the Astoria Symphony kicks off their season with a concert of Mendelssohn, Beethoven and Schnittke at the new Frank Sinatra School for the Arts (35-12 35th Ave).

Finally, Sunday hails the start of Rioja Restaurant Week. Both 718 (35-01 Ditmars) and Sweet Afton (30-09 34th St) will be participating.

It's My Park Day at Queensbridge Park.

2009-10-15T02:56:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been to Queensbridge Park? I have a few times, and it's a pretty nice space. Great river and city views, places to relax, family-friendly... and you can help it stay beautiful!

Queensbridge is participating in It's My Park Day, Saturday, October 24th. Join in the citywide celebration of making our favorite parks ready for the winter. Press release follows:

ASTORIA/LONG ISLAND CITY, N.Y. – Winter is right around the corner! Join with Green Shores NYC and the Friends of Queensbridge Park Committee for It’s My Park Day (IMPD) on Saturday October 24th, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. IMPD will take place rain or shine.

The event will give residents of Long Island City and Astoria a chance to spruce up Queensbridge Park after an event-filled summer. Within a few hours, volunteers will take part in several projects, including painting, planting and general park cleanup. Arts and crafts activities for all ages will round out the day.

Queensbridge Park is on the waterfront and provides breathtaking views of the Queensboro Bridge (also known as the 59th Street Bridge), East River and Manhattan skyline. It’s heavily used by children, families, cyclists, runners, and amateur sports teams. Built in 1939, the park features baseball fields, a multi-use field for soccer and football, volleyball and handball courts, a marked bike path, a playground and barbeque areas. Over the past few months, Queensbridge Park has been the site of a festival celebrating the Queensboro Bridge’s Centennial, a concert by the Metropolitan Opera, puppet shows, and innovative dance and theater performances.

Everyone is welcome, but children must be supervised by an adult. This is a great opportunity for community organizations, businesses and schools to volunteer as a group in their community. Volunteers are advised to wear old clothes and shoes and to be ready to roll up their sleeves and have fun! Refreshments will be provided for all volunteers.

All volunteers are asked to enter the park at the 41st Avenue/Vernon Blvd entrance and report to the registration table on OCTOBER 24TH at 10 AM near the field house. By train, take the F to 21st Street/Queensbridge and walk west on 41st Avenue to Vernon Boulevard.

Event Details:
GREEN SHORES NYC and THE FRIENDS OF QUEENSBRIDGE PARK COMMITTEE
It’s My Park Day! in Queensbridge Park
Saturday, October 24th, 2009, 10 AM to 2:00 PM
Queensbridge Park (Vernon Boulevard and 41st Avenue)