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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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
EXHIBITION OPENS NOVEMBER 18, 2016
ONLY IN NEW YORK WOULD YOU DO WHATEVER IT TAKES TO STEP OUT OF THE ORDINARY. A pair of 1900 carriage boots from Lord & Taylor—just one of the many objects whose story comes to life in the first–ever exhibition on NYC’s past, present, and future.
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Carriage boots, gift of Mrs. Rosemary Haywood, 69.126.2A-B.
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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
ADS
(PAGE TO COME)
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24 | BOROMAG.COM | NOVEMBER 2016
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NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 25
@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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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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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,
50 I BOROMAG.COM I NOVEMBER 2016
“
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.”
NOVEMBER 2016 I BOROMAG.COM I 53
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.
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