BORO MAG

VOL 6:11 november 2016

QNS.COM

SIMPLY STRIKING

Image courtesy of Christopher Dina

Page 32

Locals make novel attempt in November Page 14

GREAT DISCOUNTS

at the best spots in Astoria, LIC, Sunnyside

Play on homelessness premieres Page 22

Classic men’s fashion at new boutique Page 38

Paleo- and vegan-friendly barbecue Page 52

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NOVEMBER 2016 | BOROMAG.COM | 3

CONTENTS Dear western Queens, Thanksgiving is coming up, and this year, we at BORO are thankful for YOU! (It’s cheesy, but seriously — a magazine is nothing without its readers.)

Just as leaves are falling from the trees, people all over western Queens seem to be turning over a new leaf this autumn: Several residents are taking on new writing projects during National Novel Writing Month (page 14); a play tackling the issue of homelessness is premiering at APAC (page 22); a new menswear store with classic fashions opened on Ditmars (page 38); KATRINA MEDOFF and The Little Soap Shop moved locations to editor-in-chief 23rd Avenue and changed its name — after all, it’s not so little anymore (page 44).

Got any stories you’d like to share with BORO? Send them to katrina@boromag.com. And connect with us on social media — you can find us on Twitter (@BOROMAG) and Instagram (@boromagazine).

Wishing you a happy Thanksgiving, Katrina Medoff

BUILT TO LAST

38

FEATURES 6 COLORS OF THE WIND

Street style in Astoria

14 THE NOVEMBER NOVELISTS OF WESTERN QUEENS Residents take on 50,000-word challenge

22 CLOSE TO HOME

THE NOVEMBER Novelists of Western Queens

32 SIMPLE BEAUTY

14

25 BORO DEALS & DISCOUNTS

Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of November

in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside

Astoria graphic designer

38 BUILT TO LAST

Classic menswear on Ditmars

44 ONWARD AND UPWARD

DEPARTMENTS

12 NOVEMBER 2016 EVENTS

New play deals with homelessness in NYC

26 MAP IT DIRECTORY

Your go-to guide for the best shops, food, art, nightlife and more in western Queens

28 MAP IT: WESTERN QUEENS

Bath product shop moves and expands

50 THE BAR NEXT DOOR

LIC bar brings community together with events

52 FIRED UP

Paleo and vegan eats at Korean restaurant

editoR-IN-CHIEF Katrina Medoff // art director Jonathan Rodriguez // graphic designerS Stephen Reina, Nirmal Singh writers Hayley Bridgewater, Awura Ama Barnie-Duah, Ruthie Darling, Katrina Medoff, Estelle Pyper, Antonella Saravia photographers Ruthie Darling SALES REPRESENTATIVE Graziella Zerilli // Published by Joshua and Victoria Schneps All materials Copyright © 2015 BORO / All rights reserved. Opinions and claims made by advertisers are advertisers’ claims only. BORO Magazine accepts no responsibility for any claims made by advertisers.

BORO Magazine reserves the right to publish any images without providing photo/image credit. No part of this publication may be reproduced without permission of the publisher.

4 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016

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sTREET sTYLE

Irina Thomason is an artist and photographer originally from Romania. Her vintage floral maxi dress looked darling as she strolled down Ditmas Boulevard. Perfect Indian summer wear.

Helen is from London and is an actress in NYC. When she’s not treading the boards, she is a part-time body builder and was on her way back from a training session when I snapped her picture. Her workout ensemble is fabulous!

Function meets fashion.

Talk about cute! Alley Scott looked adorable in her dino T-shirt that was a given to her by a friend. I love it paired with the red shoes and polka dot pants. Alley runs Dutch Kills Theater Company, which is based in Astoria.

6 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

Adela is originally from Albania but now works as a hair stylist in Astoria.

Her emerald green dress and gold sandals look bold yet chic.

Colors of the Wind

BY RUTHIE DARLING @ruthiedarling

The nights may be getting longer, but the streets are bursting with pops of color. Queens fashionistas were resisting the cold weather and dark nights with bold outfit palettes ranging from bright 1960s florals to multicolored dinosaur print T-shirts. Fun was the name of the game in Astoria this month, with youthful, exuberant and joyous looks. Take a look at the style mavens gracing the streets this month.

Rachel was in from Long Island for a visit and works in the fashion industry. The bright orange of the dress paired with the floral pattern make this a real statement piece.

NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 7

8 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016

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LaPlacaCohen Publication: Insertion date: Size: 212-675-4106 BORO MAG NOV 1, 2016 10”x6.8” 4C MAG

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NOVEMBER 2016 | BOROMAG.COM | 11

NOVEMBER EVENTS Sunday, NOV. 13 Time: 10:30 a.m.

Event Title: Art for Families | Photography: Illuminating Stone Location: Noguchi Museum Phone: 718.204.7088 Address: 9-01 33rd Rd. (at Vernon Boulevard), Long Island City URL: http://www.noguchi.org/ about/calendar Sunday, NOV. 13 Time: 2 p.m.

Event Title: ATM presents DEN$E Cost: TICKETS: $15 MoMA / MoMA PS1+ MEMBER TICKETS: $13* Location: MoMA PS1 Phone: 718-784-2084 Address: 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City URL: http://momaps1.org/ sundaysessions/atm-presentsdene/ Monday, NOV. 14 Time: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Event Title: A Full Moon Affair Location: SacredWaters Phone: 718-752-1414 Address: 5-35 51st Ave., New York URL: http://www.longislandcityqueens.com/experience-lic/ events/a-full-moon-affair/ TUESDAY, NOV. 15 Time: 8 to 10 p.m.

Event Title: Astoria Drink n Draw Cost: Tuesdays are $8 in advance / $10 day of event and Fridays are $10 in advance / $12 day of event Location: Q.E.D Phone: 347-451-3873 Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Queens

URL: https://qedastoria.com/ collections/events/products/ drink-n-draw-31 FRIDAY, NOV. 18 Time: 11:59 p.m.

Event Title: A Night of Thrill-Via Location: The Creek and The Cave Phone: 646-944-9255 Address: 10-93 Jackson Ave., Long Island City URL: http://creeklic.com/events/ a-night-of-thrill-via-2016-10-21/ FRIDAY, NOV. 18 – SUNDAY, NOV. 27 Time: See website for complete list of times Event Title: NEW RELEASE Ne Me Quitte Pas (Don’t Leave Me) Cost: Admission Location: Museum of the Moving Image Phone: 718-777-6888 Address: 36-01 35th Ave. (at 37 Street) Astoria URL: http://www.movingimage. us/programs/2016/11/18/detail/ ne-me-quitte-pas-dont-leave-me/ SATURDAY, NOV. 19 Time: 6 p.m.

Event Title: The 8 Location: The Creek and The Cave Phone: 646-944-9255 Address: 10-93 Jackson Ave., Long Island City URL: http://creeklic.com/events/ the-8-2016-11-05/ SUNDAY, NOV. 20 Time: 7 to 9 p.m.

Event Title: Trivia For A Cause With Trivia NYC Cost: FREE Location: Q.E.D. - A Place to Show & Tell Phone: 347-451-3873

12 I BOROMAG.COM I november 2016

Find more events at www.BOROmag.com/Events Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Queens, NY 11105 URL: https://qedastoria.com/ collections/events/products/trivia-for-a-cause-with-trivia-nyc-2 TUESDAY, NOV. 22 Time: 6 to 7 p.m.

Event Title: Sunnyside Holiday Lighting Event Cost: FREE Location: Sunnyside, NY, 11104 Phone: 718-606-1800 Address: Greenpoint Avenue between 46th Street and 45th Street URL: http://www.sunnysideshines.org/events WEDNESDAY, NOV. 23 Time: 9 p.m.

Event Title: New York Comedy Festival Presents: Legion of Skanks Location: The Creek and The Cave Phone: 646-944-9255 Address: 10-93 Jackson Ave., Long Island City URL: http://creeklic.com/events/ legion-of-skanks-3-2016-11-02/ FRIDAY, NoV. 25 – SUNDAY, NOV. 27 Time: See website for complete list of times Event Title: Thanksgiving Family Programs Willy Wonka & Workshops Cost: Admission Location: Museum of the Moving Image Phone: 718-777-6888 Address: 36-01 35th Ave. (at 37 Street) Astoria URL: http://www.movingimage. us/programs/2016/11/25/detail/ willy-wonka-workshops/

ONGOING events Every Thursday 7 to 10 p.m.

Live Music Alobar 46-42 Vernon Blvd., LIC 718-752-6000 www.AlobarNYC.com

MONDAY, NOV. 26 Time: 1 to 6 p.m.

Event Title: QED’s Holiday Bazaar Cost: FREE Location: Q.E.D. - A Place to Show & Tell Phone: 347-451-3873 Address: 27-16 23rd Ave., Queens URL: https://qedastoria.com/ collections/events/products/ qeds-holiday-crafts-bazaar Saturday, NOV. 26 Time: 10:30 a.m.

Event Title: Art for Tots | CMYK: Color Play Location: Noguchi Museum Phone: 718-204-7088 Address: 9-01 33rd Rd. (at Vernon Boulevard), Long Island City URL: http://www.noguchi.org/ about/calendar SATURDAY, NOV. 26 Time: Noon to 1 p.m.

Event Title: Small Business Saturday Cost: FREE Location: Bliss Plaza Phone: 718-606-1800 Address: Queens Boulevard and 46th Street under the elevated 7 train URL: http://www.sunnysideshines.org/events

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arts + Entertainment

The November

s t s i l e v o

N

E

very November, hundreds of thousands of people around the world set themselves a daunting challenge: they pledge to write a 50,000word draft of a novel in just 30 days. It’s all part of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), which drew 431,626 participants from six continents last year — 40,000 of whom met the word count goal.

The participants (sometimes called “wrimos”) include creatives of all kinds.

There are professional writers, aspiring authors, enthusiastic hobbyists and people with 9-to-5 desk jobs who enjoy the fun, creative outlet.

Some projects that were started during past NaNoWriMo challenges went on to become best-sellers, such as “Water for Elephants” by Sara Gruen, “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern, “Fangirl” 14 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

of Western Queens

BY KATRINA MEDOFF @KatrinaMedoff @katya_m22

by Rainbow Rowell and “Wool” by Hugh Howey, according to barnesandnoble.com.

Some authors, such as thriller writer Elizabeth Haynes, regularly use the challenge as motivation to complete a draft of a novel every year; according to her website, 2015 marked her 10th NaNoWriMo. Other projects end up as a learning experience for their writers or are shared with friends and family.

For Sunnyside resident Mel Walker, who has participated in 11 NaNoWriMos

and has reached the word count every single year, “Publication is not a pressing goal,” he said. “It’s really just the journey and the joy of just writing.”

He’s gone back and edited about half of his NaNoWriMo projects, and for two of them, he put hard copies together through CreateSpace to give to his family.

Whether a participant ends up with 50,000 words or just 500, NaNoWriMo

ts

n

FF edoff

was a success in that it motivated a writer to create something — anything — that he or she wouldn’t have otherwise.

When Astoria resident Ken Crossland was reaching the end of November last year, his first year participating in NaNoWriMo, he was about halfway to the word count goal and realized that he wasn’t “going to make it” to 50,000, he said. “But I have 25,000 more words than I did a month ago, so it’s not a loss,” he said. He plans to continue working on that same contemporary fiction novel this November.

In his daily life, Crossland, who has also written comedy and performed at open mics at QED in Astoria, is inspired by comedian Jerry Seinfeld’s habit of writing a joke every day and marking it off on a calendar. Crossland has been doing that for a year straight.

“I’m a very habitual writer anyway; I write every day no matter what,” he said.

By participating in NaNoWriMo, “I wanted to see if I could push a little harder; sometimes I get caught in the outline hole where you get stuck in the outline forever.”

One way wrimos can get unstuck is by going to write-ins, events in which participants meet up to write together. The New York City region of NaNoWriMo holds writeins at the Panera on 35th Avenue in Astoria, which Walker and Astoria resident Raven Jakubowski have both taken advantage of in the past. You can join these Queens write-ins on Mondays from 7 to 10 p.m.

Additionally, local writer and teacher Kelly Jean Fitzsimmons regularly hosts her YouDoYou Writers Salon, which she describes as “a study hall for adults,” in NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 15

arts + Entertainment

her living room in Astoria. She added extra sessions in November specifically with wrimos in mind.

“The hardest thing about writing is to put your butt in the seat and DO IT. Come fight the battle together,” wrote Fitzsimmons, who teaches monthly creative writing classes at the Astoria Bookshop. The YouDoYou sessions have a suggested donation of $10, and you can sign up at kjfitzsimmons.signupsheet.com.

A lot of wrimos find the community aspect of NaNoWriMo to be the best part of it, since writing is normally a solitary activity.

“I would actually like to get involved more in the [western Queens] writing community, because I didn’t realize until I started doing [NaNoWriMo], maybe in the last year, that there were meetups and things happening in Astoria, so I’d definitely like to get involved more in that,” said lifelong Astoria resident Michelle Ruggieri, who will be participating in NaNoWriMo for the third year in 2016.

Since western Queens is home to so many creative types, it’s no wonder you’ll find wrimos here.

“The artistic community is fantastic,” said lifelong Astoria resident Devin Mandelbaum. “I have been going to Socrates Sculpture Park for my entire life, and I really like the atmosphere of the neighborhood.”

One western Queens participant said she would recommend November novel-writing to others as a way to stretch their creative muscles: “I think it’s a great experience and something that people should try whether or not they consider themselves to be writers,” Jakubowski said.

“It’s a good challenge to set for yourself.”

16 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

Meet some western Queens wrimos Editor’s notes: If a year is boldface, the writer “won” NaNoWriMo that year; that is, he or she reached the 50,000-word goal. If someone is a “plotter,” that means, as you might imagine, that the writer plans out how the story will unfold. A “pantser,” on the other hand, just gets started and continues writing “by the seat of his/her pants,” without plotting out the story.

Raven Jakubowski Ken Crossland Neighborhood: Astoria

Neighborhood: Astoria

Years Done/Won: ‘11, ‘12, ‘13, ‘15

Years Done/Won: ‘15

Genre: Sci-fi

Genre: Contemporary fiction

Career: Tailor for television at Kaufman

Career: Book designer at Penguin Random

Astoria Studios

House

Favorite local writing spot: My kitchen table

Favorite local writing spot: My apartment

Literary inspiration: Older science-fiction

Literary inspiration: “A Tree Grows in Brook-

like Ray Bradbury and Arthur C. Clarke;

lyn” by Betty Smith; currently reading a lot

magical realism like Haruki Murakami

of nonfiction, such as “Alexander Hamilton”

Plotter/Pantser: Plotter, but this year her

Plotter/Pantser: Plotter

work will be “a little more freeform than

“What’s cool about NaNoWriMo is that it

usual” — “I’m going to jump off of a short

forces you to write the book. It gets you out

story I started a while ago and see where it

of your head a little bit.”

goes,” she said.

“For this year’s novel, even though it’s science-fiction, I’m trying to sort of be inspired by Natsuo Kirino. She writes very feminist narratives, so I would like to sort of put a more fantastic spin on that.”

Michelle Ruggieri

Devin Mandelbaum Mel Walker

Neighborhood: Astoria (lifelong resident)

Neighborhood: Astoria (lifelong resident)

Neighborhood: Sunnyside

Years Done/Won: ‘14, ‘15

Years Done/Won: ‘06, ‘07, ‘11, ‘12

Years Done/Won: ‘05, ‘06, ‘07, ‘08, ‘09,

Genre: Romance

Genre: Historical fiction/romance

‘10, ‘11, ‘12, ‘13, ‘14, ‘15

Career: Finance assistant

(set during the Civil War)

Genre: Romantic suspense

Favorite local writing spot:

Career: Web developer

Career: IT project manager at Pfizer

Starbucks on 35th Avenue

Favorite local writing spot:

Pharmaceuticals

Literary inspiration: Danielle Steel,

Starbucks on Broadway; planning to write in

Favorite local writing spot:

Nicholas Sparks, Katie MacAlister and J.K.

Broadway library this year

Caffe Bene on Queens Boulevard

Rowling

Literary inspiration: John Scalzi, Lyndsay

Literary inspiration:

Plotter/Pantser: Plotter

Faye, Orson Scott Card, Neil Gaiman

Kim McLarin, Alessandra Torre, J. A. Konrath

“I’ve always just been interested in [writ-

Plotter/Pantser: Plotter, “but I’m trying

Plotter/Pantser: Plotter

ing] and I’ve always kind of tried my hand at

not to overdo it because last time I tried

writing little short stories when I was a kid,

[NaNoWriMo], I got lost in the research and

you understand your limits. You always think

and it developed from there.”

barely got any writing done,” he said.

you don’t have time to do certain things,

“[NaNoWriMo] gives me a little more

“[NaNoWriMo] is good because it helps

and you can usually find time to write

structure with a set goal every day, and hav-

50,000-plus words in a month, and that car-

ing the community around to kind of help

ries over to other things [in your life]. Time

encourage and motivate helps keep me on

is almost elastic as long as you prioritize

task. … I’ve got high expectations for this

what’s important to you.”

year. I’m excited.”

NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 17

SONJA

MYLONAS ASTORIA’S OWN

MARKETING WONDER

By Ilija Sekulvski

Diversity, Astoria was built on it. Its streets are filled with foods from all over the world, its residents span from Greek to Italian, Middle Eastern and Asian, South American and everywhere else you can think of.

And among the diverse wave of cuisines, businesses, and cultures that have and always will make up Astoria there are individuals who not only connect the community together but strive to push it forward.

Sonja Mylonas is just such an individual. Australian raised, Mylonas came to New York over 10 years ago and in just a short period of time she’s put her stamp on New York’s not so small corner of the globe.

Owner and CEO of Cats Eye on Broadway, you have no doubt seen her work every time you frequent one of Astoria’s many popular restaurants or businesses that Sonja and her team have had a hand in branding.

Mylonas has been the recipient of multiple awards for her ongoing support of the community by the city councils along with proclamations and certifications of recognition for her work within Queens. It is because of this involvement with the community - and Cats Eye’s support of the local - that Sonja begun Give Me Astoria (GMA).

An online News, Dining and Events blog, GMA has become one of the most followed blogs in Queens.

Through GMA’s online and social media presence Mylonas has helped provide residents and visitors with everything they need to know about Astoria, while helping spread the word about some of its hidden gems.

Sponsoring multiple charities and events alike, Mylonas has proven herself an integral part in the community and its growth. There is very little that this young thirty something year old entrepreneur has yet to accomplish.

33-10 BROADWAY ASTORIA, NY 11106 718.956.8660 INFO@CATSEYEWEBS.COM CATSEYEMARCOM.COM

ME

INFO@GIVEMEASTORIA.COM GIVEMEASTORIA.COM

18 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016

Cats Eye and Give Me Astoria’s headquarters, located on 33-10 Broadway, is always open to the public. The popular storefront serves as a central location for both the design, print and branding of Cats Eye, and as a HQ for GMA. Proving her business and herself as a true staple of the community Mylonas is at the forefront of Astoria’s constantly growing demographic, making sure that its businesses and residents thrive.

NOVEMBER 2016 | BOROMAG.COM | 19

20 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016

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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

CLOSE TO HOME

BY Estelle Pyper @estie_pyper @estiepyper

W

hen playwright Christina

a bank teller, while also searching for com-

Quintana began volunteer-

panionship in a world filled with loneliness.

ing at a Manhattan home-

A story of human connection, “Evensong”

less shelter back in 2013,

sheds light on the shelter system and the lesser-known working homeless population.

she knew she needed to write about it. Her interactions with the men and women of The

“I don’t think a lot of people realize that there

Friends Shelter at 15 Rutherford Pl. translated

are so many people in the shelter who actually

themselves into “Evensong,” Quintana’s new

get up and go to work each day, trying to make

play that unpacks the trials of homelessness

it work,” Quintana said. “Teo is like so many peo-

in New York City.

ple you find in the shelters who actually have jobs, but they don’t have a support system.”

The play, directed by David Mendizábal, will make its world premiere at Astoria Performing

To prepare for such a complex role, Daniel

Arts Center (APAC) starting Nov. 3 and running

Prado, who plays Teo, felt that research was

through Nov. 19. Tickets can be purchased online at www.apacny.org, or at the box office

Actor Daniel Prado

necessary, and turned to the local neighborhood for inspiration.

sin,” a musical adaptation of Lorraine Hans-

“I know that there are people who have

APAC’s artistic director and Astoria resident

berry’s iconic play, “Raisin in the Sun,” open-

jobs who also live in shelters, but I never un-

Dev Bondarin is ecstatic to be kicking off the

ing in the spring. Considering this month’s

derstood the circumstances, so I reached out

center’s 16th season with such a powerful

presidential election and our country’s con-

to a community near Astoria,” the young ac-

piece. “This show is emblematic of the kind

stant change, Bondarin believes the timeli-

tor said. “There were some people I talked to

of theater we want to be producing in Astoria

ness of these shows is crucial: “In terms of our

who told me about how a lot of them are very

and New York City,” Bondarin said. “It’s some-

social climate, I think theater folk in the city

positive, but there are also a lot who deal with

thing that feels close to home, but it’s also

can join the conversation by producing work

emotional issues when in the shelter. I think

something new that, to quote Shakespeare,

that is relevant, in ways that are really impor-

it’s all about being positive.”

‘holds a mirror up to nature,’ asking us, ‘Are

tant.” And “Evensong” gives us just that.

half an hour prior to performances.

we doing the best we can do?’”

Prado illustrates Teo’s character as “confi-

The 90-minute play follows the difficult life

dent and kind of edgy,” Prado explained. “He

This next season for APAC in particular

of Mexican-American Teofilo “Teo” Aguilar, a

has issues underneath that he’s not letting

focuses on topical social issues, with “Even-

young, gay, homeless man in New York City.

out. I think a lot of what this character is deal-

song” taking the lead, then a revival of “Rai-

Teo struggles to make ends meet working as

ing with is coming to terms with being home-

22 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

Images courtesy of APAC

APAC artistic director Dev Bondarin

thing when you meet a stranger in a bar or

spective of a character [Teo] and his day-to-

on OkCupid.”

day life in New York City,” Bondarin said. “You

It’s these little details that bring relatable hu-

get to experience what he experiences in a

manity to her characters’ lives. Teo struggles

way that makes the topic much more relat-

to find love in a place where survival is the first

able. It allows us to understand the issue

priority.

better and understand how we look at other

The play’s simple yet provocative title,

people — hopefully with a little more sensitiv-

"Evensong," comes from an Episcopalian

ity and humility, because we could find our-

tradition. Quintana wanted a title that encom-

selves in the same situation tomorrow.”

less, and how opening up to people is a big

passed a “chorus of the city.” “Evensong” is

This is not the first time Quintana and

part of getting through it.”

the name of an evening prayer service, tra-

Bondarin have worked together, and when

Teo, as well as other characters in the play, is

ditionally done through song. To Quintana,

Bondarin read the “Evensong” script for the

an amalgamation of individuals Quintana came

it symbolizes a coming together of human-

first time, she knew it was meant for APAC.

across while volunteering at the shelter. The ex-

ity, of society helping one another. The show

“This is a really good play for us from a the-

periences her characters go through echo those

will use choral music throughout, along with

matic point of view, but it’s also really good for

of real people, and even some of her own.

other fantastical elements only possible in a

our space,” Bondarin said.

In terms of her character’s love life, Quintana recalls being hit on by a young homeless

theatrical space.

The playwright shared the sentiment, re-

The show promises to not only entertain

calling that the minute she saw the theater

its audience, but also offer something larger.

space, it just “felt right.” Just as the play and

“I was with my friends later, and they asked

Quintana and Bondarin share the vision that

the space work together in perfect harmony,

if I would ever go out with her,” the Manhat-

viewers will leave their seats with a greater

so do the human connections of Quintana’s

tan-based writer said. “It kind of made me

sense of the world around them.

story, producing the perfect “Evensong” for

woman at the shelter.

think, why not? I feel like it’s kind of the same

“This play takes you inside the inner per-

their audience.

NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 23

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(PAGE TO COME)

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@newyorkdoghouse

on

MAP IT DIRECTORY MAP IT DIRECTORY 133

184

alobar restaurant (A,4) 718-752-6000 46-42 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.alobarnyc.com

Michael’s Cafe (B,3) (located inside Four Points Sheraton) 347-536-3633 27-05 39th Ave., LIC www.michaelscafeny.com

Via Vai (B1) 31-09 23rd Ave, Astoria 347-612-4334 viavai-ny.com

148

200

Astor room (C,2) 718-255-1947 34-12 36th St., Astoria www.astorroom.com

Mojave Restaurant (B,1) 718-545-4100 22-36 31st St., Astoria www.mojaveny.com

202

MONIKA’S CAFE BAR 718-204-5273 3290 36th St., Astoria www.monikascafebar.com New York Dog House 718-274-3647 37-06 30th Ave., Astoria www.newyorkdoghouse.com

RESTAURANTS

144 6 205 204 7 5 8

Bierocracy 718-361-9333 12-23 Jackson Ave., LIC www.bierocracy.com

68

Botana 718-361-6535 34-18 Steinway St., Astoria www.thebotana.com

182

Bread Box Cafe (A,4) 718-389-9700 4711 11th St., LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com

Nosh Borough (B,1) 347-746-5542 25-17 Astoria Blvd., Astoria noshborough.com

213

Number 5 718-361-6930 35-43 37th St., Astoria www.no5nyc.com

Brick Cafe (B,2) 718-267-2735 30-95 33rd St., Astoria www.brickcafe.com Burger Garage (B,3) 718-392-0424 25-36 Jackson Ave., LIC www.theburgergarage.com

35

Butcher Bar (c,2) 718-606-8140 37-08 30th Ave., Astoria www.ButcherBar.com

9

Cavo (C,2) 718-721-1001 42-18 31st Ave., Astoria www.cavoastoria.com

176

Crescent Grill (B,3) 718-729-4040 38-40 Crescent St., LIC www.crescentgrill.com

11

DiWine (C,2) 718-777-1355 41-15 31st Ave., Astoria www.diwineonline.com

159 12

DUTCH KILLS CENTRAAL (B,3) 718-606-8651 38-40 29th St., Long Island City www.dutchkillscentraal.com Flo Lounge Restaurant (C,2) 718-204-6096 37-20 30th Ave., Astoria www.flocafeny.com

181

Hibino LIC (A,4) 718-392-5190 10-70 Jackson Ave., LIC www.hibino-lic.com

112

Il Bambino (C,2) 718-626-0087 34-08 31 Ave., Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com

13 125 220 169 170 18 191

leng thai (b,2) 718-956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com LAS MARGARITAS Restaurant Lounge (C,2) 38-01 Broadway, Astoria 718-777-1707 www.lasmargaritasny.com Maiella 4610 Center Blvd., Long Island City 718-606-1770 www.maiellalic.com

150

20 45 61 22

74 183

OFF THE HOOK (B,1) 718-721-2112 28-08 34th St., Astoria (one block from 30th A) www.offthehookastoria.com Ornella Trattoria Italiana (B,1) 718-777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave., Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com Oro Restaurant & Lounge 718-729-1801 41-17 Crescent Street, LIC www.orolicrestaurant.com

Inside Astoria (C,1) 718-956-4000 28-07 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria

124

Vite Vinosteria 718-278-8483 31-05 34th St., Astoria www.vitevinosteria.com

50

LIC: living (A,4) 718-361-5650 535 51st Ave., LIC www.licliving.com

210

WARIQUE 718-726-5555 47-17 30th Ave., Astoria

52

Lockwood Shop (C,2) 718-626-6030 32-15 33rd St., Astoria www.lockwoodshop.com

29

william hallet (c,2) 718-269-3443 36-10 30th Ave., Astoria www.williamhallet.com

51

Loveday 31 (B,2) 718-728-4057 3306 31st Ave., Astoria www.loveday31.com

108 32

Winegasm Bar and Eatery (c,2) 718-932-3331 31-86 37th Rd., Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com Yajai (b,2) 718-956-9559 33-16 30th Ave., Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com

BAKERIES

PETS 201

Château le Woof 718-626-WOOF 30-02 14th St., Astoria www.chateaulewoof.com

54

City Vet (A,4) 718-433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.cityvetnyc.com

115

60 bean coffee & tea (C,1) 347-987-3994 36-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria

121

33

Astor Bake Shop (a,2) 718-606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd., Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com

218

LIC Veterinary Center (A,4) 718-383-8387 48-18 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.licvets.com MY DOG NEEDS A WALK 347-323-4549 23-12 29th St., Astoria www. mydogneedsawalk.com

Penthouse 808 (A,3) 718-289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com

34 138 139

Queens Comfort (c,2) 718-728-2350 40-09 30th Ave., Astoria www.queenscomfort.com

189

IL Fornaio Bakery (B,2) 718-267-0052 29-14 30th Ave., Astoria

RETRO PIZZA CAFE 347-612-4460 Fax: 347-813-4039 41-02 Broadway, Astoria

190

Ok café (B,1) 718-440-8789 22-04 33rd St., Astoria www.okcafeastoria.com

160

Off Broadway Florist (B,2) 718-728-2828 3204 31st St., Astoria www.offbroadwayflorist.com

37

Sweetleaf (A,4) 917-832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave., LIC www.sweetleaflic.com

44 137

Floresta (A,4) 917-612-4446 51-02 Vernon Blvd., LIC 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog

39

Food Cellar (A,4) 718-606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com

195

Food Cellar 718-606-1888 43-18 Crescent St., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com

91

S Prime Steak House (c,2) 718-707-0660 35-16 36th St., Astoria www.sprimenyc.com Sac’s Place Coal Oven Pizza (B,2) 718-204-5002 2541 Broadway, Astoria www.sacsplace.com Sage General Store (b,4) 718-361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave., LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com

28

Shi (a,4) 347-242-2450 4720 Center Blvd., LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com

Maizal Restaurant (B,2) 718-406-9431 32-07 34th Ave., Astoria www.maizalrestaurant.com

55 153

Malagueta Restaurant (B,2) 718-937-4821 25-35 36th Ave., Astoria www.malaguetany.com

Snowdonia Pub (B,2) 347-730-5783 34-55 32nd St., Astoria www.snowdoniapub.com

116

MEET THE MEAT 23-92 21st St., Astoria 917-832-7984 www.meetthemeat.net

49

Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company 718-777-1121 35-09 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria (C,1) 36-14 30th Ave., Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria (C,2) www.bkbagel.com

Skinny’s (a,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd., LIC

Manducatis Rustica (A,4) 718-937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.manducatisrustica.com

Victory Garden Café 718-274-2087 2169 Steinway St., Astoria www.victorysweetshop.com

218

Ovelia (B,2) 718-721-7217 34-01 30th Ave., Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com

24

25

The Brass Owl (C,1) 347-848-0905 36-19 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.thebrassowl.com

Astoria Coffee 30-04 30th St Astoria, NY, 11102 (347) 410-7399

Rèst-âü-Ránt (B,2) 718-729-9009 30-01 35th Ave., Astoria www.rarbarlic.com

194

186

FOOD SHOPS

NYC PET NANNY 25-74 36 St. Astoria NY 646-298-5301 www.nycpetnanny.com

40 75

Steinway Court Vet (c,2) 718-728-2822 32-41R Steinway St., Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com

FLORISTS

47

NYC FARM CHIC Flowers www.nycfarmchicflowers.com

130

Petals and Roots (B,2) 718-267-1700 31-27 31st St., Astoria www.petalsandroots.com

211

Met Fresh and Organic Supermarket Located in the heart of Astoria on 34-14 Steinway St.

168

Admiral lock and Key (C,2) 718-274-2491 37-17 Broadway, Astoria www.admirallockandkey.com

167

Yogurt La Crepe (B,1) 917-832-6930 29-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.yogurtlacrepe.com

178

Astoria 35 Laundry & Fine Dry Cleaning (B,2) 718-392-9692 3505 34th St., Astoria Astoria35laundry.com

119

Astoria Center of Israel 718-278-2680 27-35 Crescent St., Astoria www.astoriacenter.org

WINES & SPIRITS

SERVICES

36

Astoria Bier & Cheese (C,2) 718-545-5588 34-14 Broadway, Astoria

Sugar Freak (C,2) 718-726-5850 36-18 30th Ave., Astoria www.sugarfreak.com

27

Astoria Park Wine and Spirits (b,1) 28-07 24th Ave., Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com

177

Astoria Cleaners (B,1) 718-545-0680 28-19 Astoria Blvd., Astoria astoriacleaners.com

216

The Bonnie 718-274-2105 29-12 23rd Ave. Astoria www.thebonnie.com

38

Astoria wine and spirits (C,2) 718-545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com

209

Avenue Chemists Pharmacy 718-545-1010 45-01 30th Ave., Astoria

The Last Word 31-30 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.tlwastoria.com

Grand Wine and Liquor (B,2) 718-728-2520 30-05 31st St., Astoria www.grandwl.com

129

219

Blue Bird Child Care 347-832-0103 25-58 48th St., Astoria www.bluebirdchildcareastoria.com

19

MexiBBQ (c,2) 718-626-0333 37-11 30th Ave., Astoria www.mexiqny.com

199

3

Mezze Place (B,2) 718-777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mezzeplace.com

31

187

Tru Astoria 35-19 Ditmars Blvd. Astoria 646-878-6000 www.truastoria.com Vesta (a,2) 718-545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com

SHOPS 143 21

26 | BOROMAG.COM I october 2016

ASTORIA BOOKSHOP (b,2) 718- 278-2665 31-29 31st St., Astoria www.astoriabookshop.com babyNOIR (B,1) 646-470-4728 26-16 23rd Ave., Astoria www.babynoir.net

207 114 77

Bookkeeping & Payroll Services Sparklelink 718-812-9616 3537 36th St., Astoria Crescent Apothecary (B,1) 718-777-1110 25-01 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.crescentapothecary.com Dr. Panagiotis Pagonis, M.D. (b,2) 718-278-0300 30-16 30th Ave., Astoria www.drpagonismd.com

m

rklelink

173 161

e.c.g. debt settlement (B,1) 718-932-9300 29-15 Astoria Blvd., Astoria

67

energea (C,2) 929-296-9314 34-13 38th St., LIC EnergeaNYC.com

BEAUTY

FERRARI Driving School (c,2) 718-278-6679 3232 Steinway St.

164

198

Gotham lasik 718-440-3131 30-80 21st St., Astoria www.gothamlasik.com

195

56

Hero computer repair nyc 347-670-4376 Apple/Mac Computer Repair Specialist hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net

90

223 224

Savignano accountants & advisors 718-707-0955 47-46 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.savignano-cpa.com 718-707-0295 41-18 Crescent St., LIC www.savignano-cpa.com

Super Nova Tattoos (c,1) 718-274-5712 38-01 23rd Ave., Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com

Carl Clarke AesthetIques (B,2) 347-631-0922 32-12 Broadway, Astoria www.defineyourlook.com European Wax Center LIC (A,4) 718-482-9299 4545 Center Blvd., LIC www.europeanwaxcenter.com

SPAS 151 81 188

718-784-0077 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria www.movingimage.us

HAPPY DaY NAIL SPA (B,2) 718-728-8886 31-35 31st St., Astoria

94

Rejuvenate face and body (B,1) 718-626-4434 26-17 23rd Ave., Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com Shade Organic Spa and Salon 718-278-7892 36-05 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria

NIGHTLIFE/BARS

Noguchi Museum (A,2) 718-204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd., Astoria www.noguchi.org

149

QUEENS COUNCIL ON THE ARTS (C,2) 347-505-3010 37-11 35th Ave., Astoria www.queenscouncilarts.org

215

Q.E.D. 347-451-3873 27-16 23rd Ave., Astoria www.Qedastoria.com

Gigi Salon (c,2) 718 -777-7755 34-17 30th Ave., Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com

43

Baroque (C,1) 718-274-2777 19-44 Steinway St., Astoria www.baroquenyc.com

146

RoGallery.com (C,3) 800-888-1063 or 718-937-0901 47-15 36th St., LIC - by appointment www.rogallery.com

The Face & Body Shop 718-204-9390 40-21 23rd Ave., Astoria www.thefaceandbodyshop.com

82

Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden (B,1) 718-274-4925 2919 24th Ave., Astoria www.bohemianhall.com

110

SCULPTURECENTER (B,3) 718-361-1750 44-19 Purves St., LIC www.sculpure-center.org

72

Primp AND Tease SALON (a,4) 718-472-2001 5-02 50th Ave., LIC

83

97

Socrates Sculpture Park (A,2) 718-626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org

46

RedkEn SALOON Salon (c,2) 718-956-3366 36-17 30th Ave., Astoria www.redkensalon.com

Break (B,2) 718-777-5400 3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com

84

Brick Bar (B,2) 718-267-2735 30-95 33rd St., Astoria www.brickcafe.com

98

Ten10 Studios (A,4) 917-449-9539 10-10 47th Rd., LIC www.ten10studios.com

71 131

196

The Learning Station Montessori Inc. (c,2) 347-523-0906 31-32 47th St., Astoria www.thelearningstationmontessorischool.com

95

Mathnasium (c,1) 718-726-6284 43-32 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria www.mathnasium.com/astoria

192

197

the art house (c,2) 516-724-1562 31-06 35th St., Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com

212

Studio Nova 718-392-4962 37-01 36th Ave., Astoria www.studionovanyc.com

The Brewery Bar & Kitchen 718-777-8007 49-18 30th Ave., Astoria www.thebrewery.nyc

112

Montessori Kids of LIC (B,3) 347-746-5542 5 Court Square, LIC mklic.com

shade organic spa and salon (C,1) 718-278-7892 36-05 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria shadebarspa.com

85

Domaine Wine Bar (A,4) 718-784-2350 50-04 Vernon Blvd., LIC www.domainewinebar.com

217

86

185

The Cotton Bride (B,3) 718-729-9878 Fax: 718-729-9740 39-13 23rd St., LIC www.thecottonbride.com

Dominies of Astoria (C,2) 718-706-6531 34-07 30th Ave., Astoria www.dominiesnyc.com

The Paint Place (NYC Painting Classes & Parties) 31-21 31st St Astoria, NY 11106 929-522-0086 www.thepaintplaceny.com

99

145

Katch Brewery & Grill (B,2) 718-777-2230 3119 Newtown Ave., Astoria www.katchastoria.com

SCULPTURE SPACE NYC (c,3) 718-806-1709 47-21 35th St., LIC www.sculpturespacenyc.com

96

222

Locked -Escape Room NYC 718-274-9700 22-56 31st St., Astoria www.escapelocked.com

The Secret Theatre (B,3) 718-392-0722 44-02 23rd St., LIC www.secrettheatre.com

154

Astoria Complex (c,2) 718-729-7163 34-38 38th St., LIC www.ascsports1.com

111

Mosaic Craft Beer & Wine Bar (B,1) 718-728-0708 25-19 24th Ave., Astoria www.mosaicastoria.com

217

CKO Kickboxing (C, 1) 347-669-0494 40-06 Astoria Blvd., Astoria www.ckoastoria.com

203

Passage Irish bar and kitchen 917-832-6680 40-11 30th Ave., Astoria www.passageastoria.com

105

180 57

MPN Law Firm (C,2) 718-777-0400 3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria www.mpnfirm.com

206

MY DOG NEEDS A WALK 347-323-4549 23-12 29th St., Astoria www.mydogneedsawalk.com

174

QNS COLLECTIVE (c,3) 718-280-5122 36-27 36th St., 2nd floor, Astoria www.qnscollective.com

59

RCN (A,3) Digital TV and High-Speed Internet Services 212-842-7981 33-16 Woodside Ave., LIC www.rcn.com/boromag

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE

FITNESS 58

Anthea Yoga & Healing Arts center (c,2) 718-606-0049 34-01 45th St., Astoria www.antheacenter.com

122

Tuck-It-Away Storage (B, 3) 718-519-8282 37-19 Crescent St., Astoria www.tuckitaway.com

120

62

Vardiman Eyewear (c,2) 718-204-5037 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com

42

Club Fitness (b,2) 718-545-0004 31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com

88

Studio Sq. Beer Garden (C,3) 718-383-1001 35-33 36th St., Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com

165

Crank Cycling Studio (a,4) 718-606-6309 4630 Center Blvd., LIC www.cranknyc.com

89

Sweet Afton (C,2) 718-777-2570 30-09 34th St., Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com

76

CROSSFIT Dynamix Gym (C,1) 718-606-0381 36-05 20th Ave., Astoria www.dynamixgym.com

79

Tantra Lounge (b,2) 718-937-4574 35-50 31st St., Astoria www.tantraloungenyc.com

FOUNDRY (a,3) 718-786-7776 42-38 Ninth St., LIC www.thefoundry.info

78

NEXUS NYC (C,3) 718-204-2091 36-58 37th St., LIC www.nexusnyc.com

Renaissance Event Hall (A,1) 718-274-4590 27-34 21st St., Astoria www.renaissanceeventhall.com

79

175

Vespa Queens (b,3) 718-786-7772 37-43 Crescent St., LIC www.vespaqueens.com

157

Voice Music Studio (A,1) 646-309-3429 23-11 21st St., Astoria

EVENTS 64 65

HOTELS 134 66 17

Four Points Sheraton (B,3) 718-786-8500 27-05 39th Ave., LIC, www.fourpoints.com Ravel (a,3) 718-289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com Z NYC Hotel (a,3) 212-319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave., LIC www.zhotelny.com

TATTOO SHOPS

PNT Fitness (A,4) 347-396-5809 10-68 Jackson Ave., LIC www.pntfitness.com

166

The Rock Health & Fitness Club (B,1) 718-204-1400 22-15 31st St., Astoria www.therockhealthandfitness.com

156

Personalized Pilates (A,4) 347-563-3933 10-13 47th Ave., 2nd floor, LIC

142

Sage Studios 347-927-2439 29-20 23rd Ave., 4th Floor, Astoria www.sagefit.com/astoria-home

80 136

The Yoga Room 718-274-0255 38-01 35th Ave., Astoria (C,2) 718-786-7962 10-14 47th Rd., LIC (A,4) www.the-yoga-room.com

147

Body Language Tattoo 347-808-0497 32-02 34th Ave., Astoria www.bltnyc.com

60

158

FAT CAT Tattoo (B,2) 718-267-1326 31-32 31st St., LIC www.fatcattattoos.com

Tightan Gym 718-274-1606 31-21 31st St., Astoria www.tightan.com

73

Yoga Agora (B,2) 718-626-0680 33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl., Astoria www.YogaAgora.com

214

REAL ESTATE

30

The Beast Next Door Café & Bar 718-482-7507 42-51 27th Ave., LIC www.thebeastnextdoorcafebar.com

ART Astoria fine arts dance (c,1) 718-247-0740 38-01 23rd Ave., Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com

128

Astoria Performing Arts Center @The Good Shepherd United Methodist Church (c,2) 718-706-5750 30-44 Crescent St. (@30th Road), Astoria www.apacny.org Kaufman Astoria Studios (C,2) 718-706-5300 34-12 36th St., Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com

113

Laguardia Performing Arts Center (C,3) 718-482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave., LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org

127

LIC School of Ballet (B,3) 718-781-1169 44-02 23rd St., Studio 216, LIC www.licsb.com

199 93

Beaudoin Realty Group (A,4) 718-505-9220 21-52 44th Dr., LIC www.beaudoinrealtor.com douglas elliman (A,4) 917-386-6164 47-37 Vernon Blvd. www.elliman.com

101 140 141

Modern Spaces 718-784-1110 10-63 Jackson Ave., LIC (a,4) 47-42 Vernon Blvd., LIC (a,4) 29-20 23rd Ave., Astoria (a,4) www.modernspacesnyc.com

103

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage (c,2) 718-310-4303 3501 30th Ave., Astoria www.wfhm.com

172

Gotham Lasik 718-440-3131 30-80 21st St., Astoria http://www.gothamlasik.com/

135

Mount Sinai Queens (B,2) 24 Emergency Care Primary Care & Specialty Physician 718-932-1000 25-10 30th Ave., LIC

HEALTH & WELLNESS

100

92

AMORELLI REALTY 718-204-2828 3601 30th Ave., Astoria www.amorellirealty.com

221

Steinway Family Dental Center 718-728-3314 32-50 Steinway St.,Astoria www.alldentalneeds.com

BANKING

104

QUONTIC BANK (B,2) 718-215-4000 31-05 Broadway, Astoria www.quonticbank.com

102

Sussex Bank (b,1) 347-472-1727 28-21 Astoria Blvd., Astoria www.sussexbank.com

Moma PS 1 718-784-2084 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City www.momaps1.org Museum of the Moving Image (c,2)

october 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 27

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30 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016

NOVEMBER 2016 | BOROMAG.COM | 31

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT 32 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

SIMPLE BEAUTY

By Antonella Saravia @tsaravia

“There’s nothing like a pencil with a good eraser,” is one of the first things that local artist and graphic designer Christopher Dina tells me as we talk about his career and creative process. Dina has found a creative haven in Astoria. To the artist, home is a special place, and inspiration — from violas to fallen ginkgo leaves — are right outside his door.

BORO: Chris, you mentioned that every design starts with an idea and sketch, often married with careful real-life observation.

Can you elaborate more on this?

to me because it allows me to explore proportions and refine an interpretive design.

Sometimes the design gets “solved” quickly; sometimes it takes days.

CD: Whether it be fruits or vegetables at the market or iconic architecture, real-life observations help me see the shapes, forms and proportions before putting the idea back together. I’ll study an object, and take a photo for reference. I'll do a bunch of sketches of the asparagus — sketching is so important

BORO: What places in Astoria play a part in your everyday inspiration?

CD: Socrates Park always has an amazing array of installation art on rotation, and the Noguchi Museum is a great place to take in some modern and iconic sculptural forms.

NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 33

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT

BORO: Some great things are happening in art and design in the area, and the community of artists is growing every day. In the last issue of BORO, we talked with a local watercolor artist, who talked about a move toward custom art. What trends have you seen with graphic design? What are people looking to hang on their walls or seeking to feel with the art that surrounds them?

CD: I think we all have busy lives. Nowadays, there is so much information to take in, and there are so many things vying for our attention. I feel there is a movement toward the uncluttered. Toward a calmness and clarity. I see it in advertisements, website design and packaging. I think people are also embracing the idea of simplicity and minimalism in their homes as well.

Regarding trends, I notice trends but try to make the work that I like.

BORO: I noticed that there are some Japanese elements in your work. Where is this influence coming from?

CD: My wife is Japanese, so we visit occasionally. I have always been quite drawn to the Japanese aesthetic. There is a clear simplicity to design and strong attention to pattern and form that I love.

34 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

BORO: Putting trends and inspirations aside, where do you come into the picture as an artist? What is a (personal) constant in all of your work?

BORO: I noticed that you love using the word “simple.” Is there something fresh or symbolic that we can take away from your “simple” pieces?

CD: Behind all my work is the intention to help people reflect on and appreciate the simple beauty of nature and everyday objects. I think people are looking for clean, bold expressions to satisfy this life approach and I think that I have a natural take on that. I am also noticing that interior spaces are embracing a mix of Scandinavian and Japanese aesthetics, which I feel my work aligns with.

CD: Love that word. And yes, through my work I want to remind people about the beauty of nature and its forms when one takes the time to stop and look. I have an appreciation for geometry and math in nature which is an underlying feature in my designs. It's nice to slow down and enjoy the elementary things in life.

We were all kids, we all played with shapes and puzzles. I would like to think that the art I create is for everyone — for all generations, for

collectors and casual art lovers. It’s art for the apartment, home, nursery, office or the café down the street. The art is universal and easy to understand. You won’t be intimidated or overwhelmed by it.

BORO: You mentioned that you have a daughter. Do you think your art influences her or vice versa?

CD: This definitely goes both ways. I think art works that way; it’s kind of impossible to keep it from leaving its mark. My ladybug design grew out of an afternoon catching ladybugs with my daughter in the Japanese countryside.

She was amazed to see it — it had come to life in color on the screen.

My daughter loves to sketch and tell stories through her art. We do a lot of sketching together. Lately, if I am drawing vegetables, she will work on her own collection. We have a symbiotic creative relationship.

BORO: With the holidays coming up, what art would you recommend to those looking to gift something special?

CD: I do have a few seasonal pieces that get a little more attention during the holiday season. These are also done in a modern, minimal style. I am interested in modernizing traditional

holiday imagery as I have done with my Autumn Gourd and Indian Corn pieces. Love the idea of taking the traditional holiday imagery and giving it a modern twist or refresh.

BORO: So Astoria, you have another local star in your midst. Should you run into him, make sure to say hello!

Where to find Dina’s work: www.behance.net/christopherdina www.society6.com/society6 www.etsy.com/shop/christopherdina Email: info@christopherdina.com Images courtesy of Christopher Dina NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 35

36 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016

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EXPLORE YOUR BORO 38 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

BUILT TO LAST

BY Hayley Bridgewater @hayleyree3

W

aking up to the sound of her

embroidery, denim repair and hemming) are

of clothing. Immersed in the fashion indus-

mother’s roaring Singer sewing

for everyone. Customers can find candles from

try since attending the Fashion Institute of

machine, Ana Stone learned how

Brooklyn Candle Studio, hand poured in NYC, as

Technology’s fashion design program, Stone

to sew before she knew how to read. She was

well as collectable vintage apparel and sundries

has worked in editorial styling, visual mer-

always making things, cutting up clothes and

that make incredible gifts.

chandising and buying, but she has always

repurposing them into something new.

Now, she and her husband, James Guc-

The apparel that the Astoria couple sells at their store is timeless.

longed for a store of her own, with products and a vision that she can stand behind.

cione, have a store of their own: The Stone-

“We care about the quality of the product

Her husband is a local NYC utility worker

work, a specialty men’s clothing boutique in

and we actually want it to last,” Stone said.

and his concerns of fit and functionality car-

the Ditmars area. The store opened the first

“The Stonework is proud to provide high-

ry over into the selection at The Stonework.

week of October.

quality wares with an emphasis on classic,

The aim is to supply goods manufactured to

American-made goods.”

outlast the world of fast fashion.

While The Stonework is a men’s apparel shop, it also sells home goods and unisex accessories,

Stone’s early exposure to sewing gave

“The Red Wing Heritage boots carried in

and the services offered (custom, hand-stitched

her a true appreciation for the functionality

the store are the same boot that has been NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 39

EXPLORE YOUR BORO made in the U.S. since 1905,” Stone said.

“Schott NYC is an American manufacturing institution; they were the first company to put a zipper on a jacket in 1913 and actually invented the Perfecto motorcycle jacket.

We are happy to be able to offer the same ‘made in USA’ Schott peacoat that was manufactured for the U.S. in World War II.” All of the store’s denim is selvedge denim, meaning the outer edge of the fabric is finished to prevent unraveling. The Stonework carries premium denim made by

experience special and unique.

Queens-based Left Field NYC, which sourc-

“My husband and I both grew up appre-

es its denim from the last remaining denim

ciating old things,” Stone said. “His mother

mill in the United States, Cone Mills’ White

was an antique and china restorer. The work

Oak plant in Greensboro, NC. The jeans are

table she used for 40 years is my work table

not mass manufactured; they come in one

and is where I do all of the custom embroi-

inseam length, as they would have come

dery, denim repairs and hemming.

100 years ago. Stone offers on-site com-

“We’ve been collecting vintage items for

plimentary hemming of their jeans, using a

years and are so happy to have a place to

vintage chain stitch machine that produces

talk about the stories we’ve learned and

a beautiful, ropelike hem. Relaying this his-

find new homes for the things we’ve loved,”

tory to their customers is what makes the

Stone added.

40 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

Photos: Ruthie Darling/BORO

Stone and Guccione said that they’re very fortunate to be building their business in their home neighborhood.

“The support we’ve received from not only our local customers, but local small businesses as well has really been moving,” Stone said. “People are proud to live here and our hope is to provide a unique, dynamic shopping experience that celebrates creativity and diversity — like the great city we live in.”

Living so close to the shop also allows for their favorite staff member — their 3-year-old daughter, Story — to be on call. If you are lucky, you will find her in the shop, helping to ring up sales and creating projects of her own.

The Stonework 37-06 Ditmars Blvd.

718-606-0828 stoneworkshop.com The Stonework @thestonework NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 41

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EXPLORE YOUR BORO

d r a w n O d an d r a w p U

BY Hayley Bridgewater @hayleyree3

F

or nine years, Astoria residents have come to frequent The Little Soap Shop, a tiny but bustling natural bath and skin care shop just off Ditmars on 36th Street. The brainchild of Vivian Dritsas, the handmade soap began as a solution when the Astoria local was experiencing some skin issues that were 44 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

The Little Soap Shop becomes Lavender Label

aggravated by traditional, commercially processed cleansers. After a great deal of research and producing batches for home use that provided great results for her own skin, the idea for a handmade soap business became a reality.

Quickly, Dritsas discovered that many people had similar concerns, particularly when dealing with the delicate skin of their children. “Health and wellness are at the fore-

“ We have a lot of families among our

customers, and we always want to be in tune with their needs and interests.”

Vivian Dritsas

front now. People are more knowledgeable and care about what they are putting in and on their bodies. Especially children’s skin, which is very susceptible to absorbing toxins,” she said.

After about three years of production, an increased demand required Dritsas to look for assistance in producing her recipes from an artisan from The Soap Maker’s Guild. This allowed her to expand the product line of soaps, bath bombs, lip and body scrubs,

butters, and candles to her store, which she says is the only soap shop in Astoria.

Eventually, as she was expanding her own family, Dritsas brought on her partner Elena Poumpouras, a friend whom she had worked with previously in another business and who also had a young daughter. They have now been in business together for two years, and anyone who has had the pleasure of speaking to them in the shop knows that they are a NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 45

EXPLORE YOUR BORO balanced pair, often pausing to seamlessly finish each other’s sentences.

As it was common for both women to bring their small children into the shop, many local customers would do the same, and soon there was talk of carrying a small line of children’s clothes and toys.

“It was a natural progression,” Dritsas said. “We have a lot of families among our customers, and we always want to be in tune with their needs and interests.”

The Little Soap Shop has always had a very loyal clientele through its social media presence and word of mouth, but the expansion of products soon required an expansion of space. Dritsas and 46 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

Poumpouras recently found and settled into a bright, airy and much larger storefront on 23rd Avenue and rebranded as Lavender Label, which had its grand opening on Oct. 8.

With the change in location came a distinct change in foot traffic.

“There is no comparison,” Dritsas said.

“There is so much foot traffic. People come in to hang out and have conversations.

Longstanding clients are so supportive and thrilled with the move and we have grown a new client base. Older, younger, men, women, families…soap is for everyone.“ The space is cheerful, welcoming and has kept them very busy. In addition to

“

Astoria is amazing. There is nothing like it.”

Vivian Dritsas

Photos: Ruthie Darling/BORO

the incredible organic bath and skin products, Lavender Label also carries hair products, knit washcloths, children’s apparel, toys, jewelry, school supplies and even socks. (I will admit I was tempted by the sushi socks!) You can find the two women — and occasionally Dritsas’ mother — cutting, wrapping, packaging and labeling products and attending to customers as if they were guests in their own homes.

“It is non-stop,” Dritsas said, “but we are so happy.”

When talking with the women, you are always aware that western Queens is in their blood and will always be a part of this business.

“Astoria is amazing.

There is nothing like it,” Dritsas said. “We are products of this neighborhood, and a majority of our clients are from this neighborhood. The new restaurants, businesses and rebuilding of parks has done so much for the families here and those moving into the area.”

The Lavender Label owners are even

looking to become a bigger part of the community by adding events in their store.

“After the bustle of the holiday season, we are interested in developing a children’s book reading series as well as small product-making parties,” Dritsas said. “We are very interested in growing the involvement with the community and are excited for what the future holds.”

Lavender Label 29-03 23rd Ave., Astoria www.thelittlesoapshop.net lavenderlabel or thelittlesoapshop @lavender_label NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 47

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48 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016 48 | BOROMAG.COM | MARCH 2016

31-19 Newtown Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103 JDT Business Center accommodates business professional’s workplace needs through rentals of executive suites, private offices, open space workstations and conference rooms in Astoria, Queens, New York region. Also, we offer virtual office solutions, mailing addresses and mail forwarding services.

PACKAGES: COMMUNICATIONS PACKAGE

VIRTUAL OFFICE PACKAGE

$250/Month

$235/Month

$550/Month

•Prestigious Address •Mail/Courier Service •Working Space •Copy Center Access •Business Hours Access

•Local Telephone Number •Receptionist to take messages & answer your calls •Calls are answered in your company name •Copy Center Access •Business Hours Access

ADDRESS PACKAGE

MEETINGS PACKAGE

$450/Month

•Meetings: 4 Hours per month •Working Space: 3 Hours per day •Prestigious Address •Mail/Courier Service Management •Internet access to high speed Wi-Fi •Complimentary use of private office 3 days per month •Copy Center Access •Online booking so you can check availability 24/7 •Business Hours Access

•Meetings: 4 hours per month •Working Space: 1 hour per day •Online booking so you can check availability 24/7 •Copy Center Access •Business Hours Access

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HOURLY AND MONTHLY RENTALS WORKSTATION

EXECUTIVE SUITE

•Open Air Workstations

•Single office without window $35 per hour •Single office with window $40-$50 per hour •Double office $70 per hour •Monthly rentals from $1,100 up to $1,800

$20/Hour

$35-70/Hour

CONFERENCE ROOM

Hours: Monday – Friday 9:00am – 6:00 pm

$75/Hour

•Can accommodate up to 8 people

2016 | BOROMAG.COM | 49 Tel: 718-721-5500 • Email: contact@jdtbusinesscenter.com •NOVEMBER Fax: 718-721-5503 MARCH 2016 | BOROMAG.COM | 49

+ DRINK FOOD Photos courtesy of The Beast Next Door

THE BAR W NEXT DOOR

By Awura Ama Barnie-Duah alk by The Beast Next Door Bar & Café in Long Island City on a chilly

night this fall, and you’ll probably be tempted to go inside. The giant windows on the façade give you a peek indoors, where a mural on the back wall lends a warm glow to the interior, and the wood-beamed ceiling gives the place a rustic feel.

If you stop by on any given Saturday night, you’ll find patrons scattered around the low-lit venue, laughing aloud during a comedy show or tapping their feet to the music of a local band or musician, such as Telecommand, The Cabinetmakers, Alexandra Tejeda Rieloff, Beecher’s Fault or Mama Juke (just to name a few).

The bar and café, which opened in December 2014, has become a community staple in just two years, holding events such as fundraisers,

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“

past history,” while other things like the bar and the shelves were built by Veenema.

Even in the short few years that it has been in western Queens, The Beast Next Door has gained some recognition; it was named one of LIC’s best bars by Culture Trip.

The bar has a charcuterie menu, gourmet sandwiches, salads and house specials. It serves specialty and classic cocktails, wines and craft beers.

First and foremost, the couple wants The Beast Next Door to be a place for the community to socialize, where people can have a good time with their friends, Veenema said.

We try to find bands that do original music, rock, funk, blues, jazz, punk. Some of our bands are local — from LIC, Astoria — some from Brooklyn and the city.”

Demet Basar , one of the owners of The Beast Next Door

presidential debate-watching parties, a monthly show by Monster City Standup Comedy, and live music performances.

“We try to find bands that do original music, rock, funk, blues, jazz, punk. Some of our bands are local — from LIC, Astoria — some from Brooklyn and the city,” said Demet Basar, one of the owners of The Beast Next Door. “We are always looking for original, local talent.”

She and her husband, John Veenema, moved to Long Island City in 2009. The couple aimed to open a neighborhood bar in the growing community and eventually found their space on 27th Street. The location they picked “had a lot of potential,” Basar said, and allowed them to create the neighborhood bar that they envisioned for the community.

“It was an open, raw space, formerly a Latin dance studio and a garage before that, so we could build it out and decorate it to our taste,”

she said.

Look closely at some of the furnishings and you’ll see that the couple has added some unique touches. The benches along the wall are old church pews that the owners turned the other way, while most of the tabletops are wooden pallets from the ‘40s that were salvaged from an abandoned industrial building on Jackson Avenue. Basar said that “almost every piece has a

He added that he’s proud of the business that he and his wife have created, especially since it is their first time running a business.

“We are fine-tuning things to fit the needs of the community,” he said. “The area is still growing and we are trying to still be there as the community grows, and we hope to grow with the community.”

“We love being part of this community because it is eclectic,” Basar said. “Many artists live and work around here. Because it is a growing neighborhood, there is a sense of excitement as more and more people are doing creative things.”

The Beast Next Door Cafe & Bar 42-51 27th St., Long Island City thebeastnextdoorcafebar.com @thebeastnextdoorcafeandbar @TBeastNextD_LIC NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 51

+ DRINK FOOD

UP

Fired Paleo-friendly Korean barbecue joint, The Green Street LIC, opens

BY ANGELA MATUA

K

atherine Oh grew up working in her family’s restaurants. Now, the Maspeth resident has struck out on her own to open The Green Street LIC, a paleo-friendly Korean barbecue joint that officially opened in Oct. 6.

Located at 10-39 47th Rd. in Long Island City, the restaurant is tucked in between twoand three-story homes. Though the storefront looks unassuming, the large 26,000-squarefoot building pays homage to the neighborhood’s increasingly fleeting industrial vibe.

Oh, who is a project manager at her father’s company, Peninsula Construction, spotted a 52 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016

“for sale” sign at the former warehouse after her yoga session across the street.

“As soon as I walked in, I kinda just knew what I wanted to do with the place,” Oh said.

Her parents ran a Korean barbecue and sushi restaurant in Flushing and Oh has incorporated what she learned in the kitchen into her own restaurant. But Oh, who is healthconscious, adds a twist to her offerings.

Instead of soy sauce, The Green Street LIC only uses gluten-free Tamari sauce to cook.

White sugar is replaced with organic coconut sugar for flavoring all of the dishes and drinks. Most of the dishes also have a paleo version. For example, the paleo Korean fried chicken is coated in almond flour and tapioca instead of traditional flour.

“There were just so many things [in traditional Korean dishes] that were paleo-friendly just the way it is – the sides, dips and even the beans we use.”

Photo: Angela Matua/QNS

The Green Street LIC serves paleo-friendly Korean BBQ.

Vegans also have a plethora of dishes to choose from including spicy garlic marinated eggplant, organic cauliflower in Tahini, sizzling Brussels sprouts and an eclectic mix of Mediterranean sides. Oh incorporated recipes she learned from her Egyptian fiance’s mother into the menu, including beet salad, a roasted red pepper dip and Mediterranean salad with organic tomato, cucumber and feta cheese.

Korean barbecue joints typically serve large portions of meat with vegetable sides for $30 to $40. Oh decided to cut the portions in half so patrons can mix and match. Meat lovers can choose between

two “sets” that include bulgogi, pork belly, pork jowl, ginger chicken thighs, grilled wild Spanish octopus, organic lemon garlic shrimp and more.

Servers cook the meat for patrons using a down-draft system so the smoke is pulled from below. Oh wanted to show off the high ceilings in the space so she decided to forego installing ducts above the picnic-style wooden tables.

There is also a vegan set option and all the meat offerings can be ordered as a la carte items. The meat is provided by Meat Dorks, a network of ranchers and butchers that deliver grass-fed beef and pasture-raised meats to restaurants across the country.

Even the desserts are paleo-friendly and vegan. Watt Sriboonruang, a Muy Thai fighter and friend of Oh, wanted to create a dessert she could eat even when she was cutting weight. Rawsome Treats was born and the options are delicious.

They include Trisome Berry Pie, a mixed berry-vanilla filling with a chocolate chip crust and dark chocolate drizzle, and Coconut Dream with cashews, coconut meat, agave, dates, dried coconut flakes, vanilla, Himalayan salt and coconut oil.

Matcha fans can also order the Matchmisu pie and other options include Banana Cream Pie and TiRAWmisu – a cashew almond date sponge cake.

All of the pies are dairy free, gluten free, soy free, vegan, paleo-friendly, 100 percent natural and contain no refined sugar.

The Green Street LIC serves wine, beer and Korean liquors, many of which are organic. A self-serve breakfast menu is also available from 7 to 11 a.m. and lunch is served from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Oh hopes to open the 800-square-foot mezzanine for parties and extra seating soon and is also aiming to start a rooftop garden. She is also working with a 5Pointz artist to decorate the side of her restaurant with a red 7 train to give her space an “old LIC feel.”

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DREAMING OF CARNEGIE HALL Nisan Ak

Queens College Master of Music Performance in Orchestral Conducting, 2016

EDITORIAL (PAGE TO COME)

HER STORY Born in Turkey, Nisan Ak came to Queens College’s Aaron Copland School of Music for a conducting workshop in 2014 and stayed for a master’s degree. “I want to combine traditional and modern music in a way that the audience, the players and I, as the conductor, will love it.”

GOAL To be a role model for women conductors in this maledominated field.

cuny.edu/welcome

CUNY★AMERICANDREAMMACHINE

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