VOL 2:06 MAY 2012
ASTORIA // LIC // SUNNYSIDE
CREATE // CULTIVATE // INSPIRE
FOOD Edible Inspiration pg. 7
Theater Shakespeare Breathes Life Into Dead Building Pg. 15
LIC ARTS OPEN Festival enters its second year pg. 27
COMMUNITY 4 Great Volunteer Opportunities pg. 35
at in the A b s e Su tor st s nn ia, po ys LI ts id C e ,
INSPIRATION issue
from the editor Dear Western Queens,
This month’s theme – INSPIRATION! We live in an endlessly inspiring city. It didn’t take long for the BORO team to find their stories for this issue. Western Queens is filled with inspiring characters and initiatives. A common thread throughout is that each story strives to positively influence the reader and ultimately the world. This goal is at the core of BORO’s mission. I hope we accomplished that through this issue. Let the read be your spring-board into a positive day.
JULIAN LESSER editor-in-chief
What inspires you? Email your story to info@BOROmag.com and we’ll post it on the BORO website.
FEATURES
5 CITY HARVEST
Pics from our BORO Party on April 11th at BREAK!
7 FOOD
DEPARTMENTS 18 MAP IT DIRECTORY
Your Go-to Guide For Astoria and LIC’s best shops, food, art, nightlife and More.
Edible Inspiration
19 MAP IT: ASTORIA & LIC MAP
13 GREEN
23 MAY 2012 EVENTS
New Beginnings: Clean Bodies, Clean Markets
15 ROMEO + JULIET
Shakespeare Breathes Life into Dead Building
40 DISCOUNTS & PROMO PAGE
Exclusive savings, discounts and freebies for the month of May in Astoria, LIC and Sunnyside.
27 LIC ARTS OPEN
Arts Festival celebrates its second year.
31 The Path to Self-Reliance
How Queens Entrepreneurs Became Their Own Bosses
35 4 GREAT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Local Community Organizations That Could Use Your Help
37 HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY, MOM!
The BORO team shares how their mothers have inspired them.
/ BOROmag
@BOROmag
COVER: Photo by Bradley Hawks
advertise in boro ads@BOROmag.com // 914.426.2939 www.BOROmag.com/advertise BORO HOURS: Mon-Fri 10AM-5PM
editor-in-chief and publisher julian lesser creative director philippe trinh // editor john lee // copy editor norm elrod art directors paul connolly, alt // graphic designerS alberto michieli, emma cason-pratt, sydney auerbach staff writers bradley hawks, ben mims, daniel crown, lillian shaw, rebecca mcnamara, matthew taylor, brett jones // staff photographers javier ibañez, daniel pando, jesse winter // sales and marketing nadine auerbach // webmaster janmichael guzman distribution manager sadee brathwaite online editorial coordinator matthew taylor // created by JKL Projects Inc *This magazine is made from FSC paper, printed with soy ink and 100% recyclable. Please recycle after use. BORO Magazine published by JKL Projects. All materials Copyright © 2012 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 | MAY 2012
BORO CITY HARVEST FUNDRAISER+party pics Thanks to everyone who came to the party! We raised $3500 for City Harvest!!!!
WE’RE STILL RASING MONEY! DONATE TO OUR SKIP LUNCH FIGHT HUNGER TEAM. Visit: www.skiplunch.org and click “Donate to a Team” and then enter “Julian Lesser” to find the BORO Team! REMEMBER, $10 helps feed 37 Kids. Every penny counts. Donate till June 8th. Thank you to everyone who joined the party! Thank you to our venue sponsor: Break Bar and Billiards. Thank you to our food sponsors: Skinny’s, Manducatis Rustica, Burger Club and Alewife. Thank you to our raffle sponsors: Alewife, Astor Room, Astoria Fine Arts Dance, Astoria Market, Brooklyn Bagel and Coffee Company, Brown’s Army+Navy, Design For You, Inside Astoria, Laughing Devil Comedy Club, Leng Thai, Manducatis Rustica, MexiQ, Penthouse808, PNT Fitness, RCN, Skinny’s, Tantra Lounge, Wells Fargo and The Z Hotel.
6 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
FOOD
Edible
Inspiration For May, BORO visits four very different (but exceptionally delicious) restaurants with menus drawn from four unique sources of inspiration: a childhood affinity for pork and local cooking, classic French technique, Greek cuisine with a contemporary flare, and a 70-year-old family tradition with roots in Bangkok. Story + Photos Bradley Hawks Maple Bacon Popcorn at Alobar
Chef Ian Kapitan of Alobar
Pork Tenderloin at Alobar
Alobar Deep below the rustic dining room of reclaimed wood and stained glass windows, in a pristine subterranean cavern, hog jowl dangles in front of a massive industrial fan maturing into guanciale. Pork is the headliner at Alobar; it even adorns the truffled maple popcorn served as a bar snack. But the walk-in refrigerators are neatly stacked with fresh produce, glistening bundles of arugula and magentaskinned onions.
Wild Mushroom Toast at Alobar
Seeing “Amish Pig Tails” on the menu at Alobar, one might expect a wax paper French fry bag with crispy curly-Q spirals. Pig tails, which look absolutely nothing like curly fries, actually resemble sticky glazed ribs. Chef Ian Kapitan grew up in a predominantly Mennonite area near Toronto, and his Alobar recipe is actually a variation from an old 1970s Mennonite cookbook his family used. The goal at Alobar is to introduce three-to-four-star caliber cuisine in a restaurant where customers feel welcome dining three to four times a week. Having previously worked in high-volume “food factories,” Chef Ian is now enjoying “dialing in all of [his] past elements… pounding people with big flavors.” While he hopes to eventually introduce some molecular gastronomy, “right now, we’re learning not only about the food, but about the space, how the humidity downstairs impacts our processes, the water… It’ll take a whole calendar year to really learn all of those elements.”
8 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
The focus is also on “everything from the greeting to the farewell,” explains owner Jeff Blath, believing the comprehensive dining experience in the area is often subpar to that in Manhattan. “We are trying to balance the food with the décor and service, bringing all of those facets together.” ALOBAR | 46-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC | 718-752-6000 www.alobarnyc.com
L’Artiste Though classic French training seems to be a hallmark of several chef bios, Astoria and Long Island City are home to less than a handful of actual French restaurants. What Western Queens may lack in sheer quantity, however, L’Artiste more than compensates for in quality.
Butternut squash with a drizzle of truffle oil, creme fraiche, and fennel frond. Chicken Roulade, chicken stuffed with mushrooms, wrapped in Swiss chard atop pureed butternut squash.
Seared duck breast with butternut squash puree and baby spring vegetables with beurre noisette sauce.
Dining room in L’Artiste
Simple black and white-striped banquettes line the periphery of the sundrenched dining room. The space is accented with vintage tchotchkes and memorabilia — an old film projector, a Singer sewing machine—collectively evoking a sense of nostalgia. “I hope you came hungry,” smiles Youssef Echaybi, the charming owner, to each and every patron. He greets each guest moments before an amuse-bouche arrives at the table, to whet the anticipating diner’s palate. Executive Chef Louis Santos (born in El Salvador, and trained at the French Culinary Institute) prepares dishes derived from classics. But they are anything but antiquated. Escargots, though typically not visually appealing, are gorgeously presented in a creamy truffle-kissed garlic broth, shimmering with the bright reds, greens and oranges of a spring vegetable medley. The roulade – chicken stuffed with woodland mushrooms and gift-wrapped in shiny jade leaves of Swiss chard atop a pedestal of pureed butternut squash – reaches new heights of flavor. Each meticulously constructed plate is as delectable in sight as it is in taste. Trout, lavishly stuffed with a salmon and scallop mousseline, is brightened by violet fingerlings and market cauliflower the color of a sunset. At a surprisingly accessible price point, L’Artiste serves up edible art even the most unseasoned Francophile is certain to enjoy. L’ARTISTE | 42-20 31st Ave, Astoria 646-309-7504 www.lartisterestaurant.com MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 9
FOOD
Thymari The menu at Thymari is peppered with the standard glossary of Greek cuisine: dolmades, feta, saganaki, kalamari, spanakopita, and Kalamata. But the Chef carefully applies subtle nuances to the seemingly familiar recipes, rendering them quite atypical of the usual Astoria Greek taverna. The shrimp saganaki, a prime example, appears in a clay dish, lavishly arranged with jumbo prawns in a robust sauce from vine-ripened tomatoes, with sequins of scallion and snowdrops of feta. These are the familiar flavors upon first bite, though they gradually fade, revealing a whisper of something faintly reminiscent of anise. The secret ingredient — masticha — is an oil drawn from raisin-like berries found in Northern Greece.
Classic “dakos” Greek bread salad, a base of ouzo-soaked barley rusks, layered with tomato compote, crumbled feta, capers, kalamata olives, fresh thyme, and extra virgin olive oil
Mussels in butter wine sauce with garlic and Greek saffron
An entirely different saganaki, this time with cheese, involves a delicate Arachova feta encrusted with sesame seeds. It is pan-fried, then ribboned with a sash of wild berry compote, a culinary divination straight from Olympus. “I love serving and entertaining, making people feel at home,” explains owner Konstantinos Batalamas, who also designed the restaurant. A sunny openfront café and bar fades into an expansive, dramatically lit dining room, which also doubles as a Greek photography gallery. “We are offering our own interpretation, not just trying to be any other taverna,” Batalamas adds. In addition to freshly interpreted Greek favorites, a few flavorsome newcomers pop up, like a bouquet of mussels in a golden broth of Krokos (Greek saffron), or a Greek custard made from strained and whipped homemade yogurt draped with a luxurious walnut amaretto caramel. Thymari also boasts the largest selection of Greek wines anywhere in the area, with over 50 bottles, as well as a playful mix of cocktails, including a baklava martini. THYMARI | 32-07 34th Ave, Astoria 719-204-2880 | www.thymari.com
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Thymari features a beautiful selection of over fifty wines, featuring several from award-winning Greek boutique vineyards
Bakaliaro: Cod, pan-seared and oven-baked, over aromatic fava puree with roasted red pepper sauce and micro greens
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 11
FOOD
Kha Nom Jeeb: Steamed shumai with shrimp, chicken, and shitake mushrooms. Brunch cocktails include Sake Mary, Pommosa, and Jasmine Tea.
Leng Thai Seekers of true Thai flavors can order from the “Season’s Special” section of the menu at Leng Thai. Everyone else, whether a first-timer or a veteran, can enjoy many other selections with heat adjusted to their liking. At Leng, the surprisingly eclectic menu features many expected favorites, interspersed with dishes considered more Korean in origin, like bulgogi or steamed pork buns. Leng Thai is the loving project of Nong Worawutchainan and his partner, Kay Siricharoen. The restaurant is named in honor of her father, who ran his own restaurant in Bangkok beginning in the 1940s. No stranger to the New York restaurant scene, Worawutchainan served in the kitchens at Bangkok House and Kelley & Ping. Siricharoen was a longtime manager of Carnegie Deli. “We knew we wanted to live our life here [in Astoria],” explains Worawutchainan, “so we decided to open our restaurant here.”
Pad Thai Kai Haw: Cross-section of the shrimp Pad Thai noodle omelet
The narrow, richly colored dining room opens to an intimate back room, beyond which lies a lush, flowered bamboo garden patio, where diners can enjoy noodles and curries al fresco. The Asian-inspired lunch and dinner entrees are not the only recipes modified for the American palate. A recently introduced brunch menu rather creatively caters to the neighborhood’s busiest ‘tween meal. Dishes like a classic Pad Thai are made into a delicately thin omelet that envelopes the sweet peanut tossed noodles. Brunch cocktails are equally inspired, with plum wines studded with lychee and fresh berries, Mimosas deepened by pomegranate, and a Bloody Mary spirited with sake. LENG THAI | 33-09 Broadway, Astoria | 718-956-7117 www.lengthainewyork.com
Visit www.BOROmag.com/food for more stories about food in Western Queens. 12 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 13
GREEN LIVING
New Beginnings Clean Bodies, Clean Markets Story Gianna Cerbone-Teoli
Socrates Sculpture Park Greenmarket
M
ost people start spring by cleaning out the closet, replanting the garden or putting bulbs in the windowsill. I want to talk about another new beginning, one that starts from within. Let’s start spring by cleaning out our bodies and making a conscious effort to consider what we put in them. I come from a background of making pasta and gelato, but I don’t overindulge. I believe in moderation. For example, I once had a customer who was on a diet. She was suffering and didn’t know what to eat. My advice to her was to “eat a simple piece of grilled fish with some steamed vegetables and enjoy. If you eat clean and healthy you won’t have to count the calories.” It is imperative that we consume fruit and vegetables. Try adding one to each meal; you’ll notice a difference in your overall mood and health. And be sure not to overcook them, either; the less cooked they are, the more nutrients you’ll get. Using supplements is okay but I can’t emphasize enough the importance of obtaining your nutrients through natural foods.
Here are a few suggestions to get your spring eating on track: Buy food at Greenmarkets!!! Eat locally.
Think fresh when you’re at the market/store. Don’t overbuy. Purchase only what you need for one to three days. Stop at a fruit stand for your snack instead of a convenience store for a Powerbar or a bag of chips. Eat more fish and legumes Drink water instead of coffee. When you take care of your body, you’ll find that your mind and spirit follow. Your new beginning starts with change. We are fortunate to live in a city with endless choices and opportunities. Consider your opportunity to make choices a blessing. Find more greenmarkets online at www.grownyc.org/ourmarkets. Peace, beets, kale, mangos and sunshine. Mamma Gianna
LOCAL Queens GREENMARKETS Socrates Sculpture Park Greenmarket Vernon Blvd & Broadway. Open Saturdays 8AM-4PM 6/23-11/17 14 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
Astoria Greenmarket 14th Street between 31st Ave and 31st Road. Open Wednesdays 8AM-3PM 7/11-11/14
Sunnyside Greenmarket Skillman Ave between 42nd & 43rd St. Open Saturdays 8AM-3PM 6/2-12/22
Jackson Heights Greenmarket 34th Ave @ 77th St. Open Sundays 8AM-3PM Year-Round
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 15
theater
Shakespeare
Breathes Life into Dead Building
Director Tim Eliot and the Empire Rouge Theater Group prepare for their epic performance of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Story Daniel Crown
A
t first glance, the abandoned garage at 26-15 Jackson Avenue in Long Island City appears fit for a clandestine rave. The floors are made of concrete, the walls are covered in graffiti, and the entranceway is dominated by a rusty roll-up door. As Tim Eliot, artistic director for the theater group Empirical Rogue, describes the garage: “It’s the sort of place that makes you go, ‘Wait. What am I doing here!’” Starting May 19th, the answer to that question will come by way of theatrical intervention. Eliot and a crew of four actors – all alumni of Harvard University’s American Repertory Theater – will use the space to perform a site-specific take on William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Some hardcore fans may find the industrial aesthetic of downtown LIC a tad incongruous with the play’s classical spirit, but Eliot disagrees. He draws numerous parallels between the political climate of the play and the recent economic issues that forced entire blocks of this area to fall into disuse. “In Verona, unprecedented economic opportunity and competition fed insecurity and inspired a culture of tribalism and violence,” he says. “In LIC, large-scale real estate speculation was hobbled by a larger housing crash, creating a lot of dysfunctional space.”
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Sponsored by chashama, a non-profit that helps local artists turn vacant buildings into temporary exhibition halls, Empirical Rogue intends to imbue the space with “positive function” for the first time since its glory days as Moe’s Taxi Garage. While Eliot expresses immense excitement over the storytelling opportunities the garage presents him, he also understands that the arrangement is temporary. Just like that of a certain pair of star-crossed lovers, the dream marriage between old-world art and forsaken modern-day real estate is destined to meet reality – eventually. “We all know that in a couple of years this space is going to be viable again,” Eliot says. “Eventually the block is going to be leveled, and another high-rise is going to go up. But in the meantime, we have this beautiful opportunity to bring the community in and create a new understanding both of this piece and of the times that we live in.” Show Runs May 19th – June 17th, 2012 (4 weeks) (different performance times, but typically 8 p.m.) Audiences of up to 64 per night, for 18-24 total performances. www.empiricalrogue.org Tickets: $15.00 chashama | 26-15 Jackson Ave, LIC | empiricalrogue@gmail.com
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 17
18 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
restaurants 2
Aliada (b,2) (718) 932-2240 29-19 Broadway, Astoria
6
Astor room (C,2) (718) 255-1947 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.astorroom.com
3
Avenue Cafe (c,2) (718) 278-6967 35-27 30th Ave, Astoria www.avenuecafenyc.com
4
Bareburger (b,2) (718) 777-7011 33-21 31st Ave, Astoria www.bareburger.com
23
Bear (a,2) (917) 396-4939 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria www.bearnyc.com
5 7 26
Brick Cafe (B,2) (718) 267-2735 30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com Bread Box Cafe (A,4) (718) 389-9700 4711 11th St, LIC www.breadboxcafelic.com Burger Club (b,2) (718) 777-7788 32-02 30th Ave, Astoria www.burger-club.com
8
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 10 17 11 12
Cavo (C,2) (718) 721-1001 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria www.cavoastoria.com Café via espresso (C,1) (718) 545-3290 2409 Steinway St, Astoria www.cafeviaespressoastoria.com Diner 24/7 @ Z Hotel (a,3) (212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com DiWine (C,2) (718) 777-1355 41-15 31st Ave, Astoria www.diwineonline.com El Ay Si (A,4) (718) 389-8781 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.elaysi.com
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Fatty’s (B,1) (718) 267-7071 2501 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria www.fattyscafenyc.com
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Il Bambino (C,2) (718) 626-0087 34-08 31 Ave, Astoria www.ilbambinonyc.com
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L’artiste (c,2) (646) 309-7504 42-20 31st Ave, Astoria www.lartisterestaurant.com
MAP IT DIRECTORY
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leng thai (b,2) (718) 956-7117 33-09 Broadway, Astoria www.lengthainewyork.com
30
Veslo (b,2) 718-728-0549 32-11 Broadway, Astoria www.veslonyc.com
204-5031 48 (718) 2401 23rd Ave, Astoria
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LIC Market (B,4) (718) 361-0013 21-52 44th Dr, LIC www.licmarket.com
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Vesta (a,2) (718) 545-5550 2102 30th Ave, Astoria www.vestavino.com
728-4057 49 (718) 3306 31st Ave, Astoria
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Linn (B,2) (718) 204-0060 2913 Broadway, Astoria www.linnrestaurant.com
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626-6030 50 (718) 35-11 34th Ave, Astoria
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Locale (b,2) (718) 729-9080 33-02 34th Ave, LIC www.localeastoria.com
william hallet (c,2) (718) 269-3443 36-10 30th Ave, Astoria www.williamhallet.com wWinegasm Bar and Eatery (c,2) (718) 932-3331 31-86 37th Rd, Astoria www.winegasmeatery.com
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(b,2) 118 Lucas (718) 786-5200
34-55 32nd St, Astoria www.lucassteakhouse.com
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Manducatis Rustica (A,4) (718) 937-1312 46-3 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.manducatisrustica.com
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MexiQ (c,2) (718) 626-0333 37-11 30th Ave, Astoria www.mexiqny.com
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Ornella Trattoria Italiana (B,1) (718) 777-9477 29-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.ornellatrattoria.com
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Ovelia (B,2) (718) 721-7217 34-01 30th Ave, Astoria www.ovelia-ny.com
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Mundo (b,2) (718) 777-2829 31-18 Broadway, Astoria www.mundoastoria.com
bakeries
37-15 30th Ave, Astoria www.pitapanny.com
Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company (C,2) (718) 777-1121 36-14 30th Ave, Astoria www.bkbagel.com (C,1) 35-09 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria (C,2) 35-05 Broadway, Astoria Malu (A,4) (718) 729-6258 12-09 Jackson Ave, LIC www.amomandpopshop.com
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Sweetleaf (A,4) (917) 832-6726 10-93 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sweetleaflic.com
food shops
www.sitenyc.com
pets 51
City Vet (A,4) (718) 433-1334 45-44 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.cityvetnyc.com Steinway Court Vet (c,2)
728-2822 52 (718) 32-14R Steinway, Astoria www.steinwaycourtvet.com
florists Floresta (A,4)
612-4446 54 (917) 51-02 Vernon Blvd, LIC 4-85 47th Rd, LIC www.florestanyc.com/blog
services
Ark locksmith 24/7 Service (c,2)
932-LOCK (5625) 114 (718) 30-10 37th st, Astoria www.Astorialocksmith.com Cats Eye Promos (a,2)
956-8600 41 (718) 28-14 14th St, Astoria www.catseyepromos.com
Hero computer repair nyc
Computer Repair Specialist 56 Apple/Mac 347-670-4376
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Astoria wine and spirits (C,2) (718) 545-9463 3412 Broadway, Astoria www.astoriawines.com
464-4515 119 (917) 41 East 11th St, 3rd Floor NY
39
Food Cellar (A,4) (718) 606-9786 4-85 47th Rd., LIC www.foodcellarandco.com
777-0400 57 (718) 3403 Broadway, Ste. 200, Astoria
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Rèst-âü-Ránt (B,2) (718) 729-9009 30-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.rarbarlic.com
25
Sage General Store (b,4) (718) 361-0707 24-20 Jackson Ave, LIC www.sagegeneralstore.com
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Shi (a,4) (347) 242-2450 4720 Center Blvd, LIC www.eatdrinkshi.com
44
Belief (B,1) (718) 721-4444 29-20b 23rd Ave, Astoria www.beliefnyc.com
Skinny’s (a,4) 718-806-1068 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC
45
babyNOIR (B,1) (646) 470-4728 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria www.babynoir.net
47
Inside Astoria (C,1) (718) 956-4000 28-07 Ditmars Blvd, Astoria
36-18 30th Ave, Astoria www.sugarfreak.com
Site (C,2)
27
Queens Kickshaw (c,2) (718) 777-0913 40-17 Broadway, Astoria www.thequeenskickshaw.com
Freak (C,2) 116 Sugar (718) 726-5850
www.loveday31.com
Astoria Park Wine and Spirits (b,1) 28-07 24th Ave, Astoria www.astoriaparkwineandspirits.com
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Loveday 31 (B,2)
Astor Bake Shop (a,2) (718) 606-8439 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria www.astor-bakeshop.com
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Penthouse808 (A,3) (718) 289-6118 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.penthouse808rooftop.com
pan (c,2) 109 Pita (718) 204-1633
Yajai (b,2) (718) 956-9559 33-16 30th Ave, Astoria www.yajaithaifood.com
www.kristeesny.com
shops
hero@iamhero.net | www.iamhero.net IOBY(In Our Backyards) www.ioby.org
MPN Law Firm (C,2) www.mpnfirm.com RCN (A,3)
TV and High-Speed Internet 59 Digital Services 33-16 Woodside Ave, LIC (212) 842-7981 www.rcn.com/boromag Syndex Web Design
841-5228 60 (914) www.syndex.info
Vardiman Eyewear (c,2)
204-5037 62 (718) 34-18 Broadway, Astoria www.vardimaneyewear.com Video Express (c,2)
63 (718)626-0846 3408 30th Ave, Astoria
KrisTEES (B,1)
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MAP IT DIRECTORY evenTS (a,3) 64 FOUNDRY (718) 786-7776
42-38 9TH St, LIC www.thefoundry.info
Renaissance Event Hall (A,1) 65 The (718) 274-4590 27-34 21st St, Astoria www.renaissanceofastoria.com
hotels 66
Ravel (a,3) (718) 289-6101 8-08 Queens Plaza South, LIC www.ravelhotel.com
17
Z NYC Hotel (a,3) (212) 319-7000 11-01 43rd Ave, LIC www.zhotelny.com
tatToo shops Nova Tattoos (c,1) 67 Super (718) 274-5712 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.supernovatattoo.com
beauty 71
Gigi Salon (c,2) (718) 777-7755 34-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.gigistylingstudio.com
AND Tease SALON (a,4) 72 Primp (718) 472-2001 5-02 50th Ave, LIC
Saloon (c,2) 46 Redken (718) 956-3366
36-17 30th Ave, Astoria www.redkensaloon.com
fitness
Ramakrishnananda Yoga and
art
105 Meditation Center (c,1)
1(888) 474-1218 20-29 38th St, Astoria www.ramakrishnananda.com Yoga Agora (B,2)
90
73 (718) 626-0680
33-02 Broadway, 2nd Fl, Astoria www.YogaAgora.com
80
The Yoga Room (C,2) (718) 274-0255 38-01 35th Ave, Astoria (718) 786-7962 (A,4) 10-14 47th Rd, LIC www.the-yoga-room.com
spas Rejuvenate face and body (B,1)
81 (718) 626-4434
26-17 23rd Ave, Astoria www.Rejuvenatenyc.com
nightlife / bars alewife (a,4)
116 (718) 937-7494
5-14 51st Ave, LIC www.alewifequeens.com
the art house (c,2)
112 (516) 724-1562
31-06 35th St, Astoria www.gabrieleperici.com
100
2919 24th Ave, Astoria www.bohemianhall.com
Flushing Town Hall
102 (718) 463-7700 x 222
137-35 Northern Blvd, Flushing www.flushingtownhall.org
92
Domaine Wine Bar (A,4)
Laguardia Performing Arts Center (718) 482-5151 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC www.laguardiaperformingarts.org
93
94 95
85 (718) 784-2350
50-04 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.domainewinebar.com Laughing Devil (a,4)
68 (347) 913-3845
4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
Kaufman Astoria Studios (C,2) (718) 706-5300 34-12 36th St, Astoria www.kaufmanastoria.com
113 (C,3)
84 (718) 267-2735
30-95 33rd St, Astoria www.brickcafe.com
Museum of the Moving Image (c,2) (718) 784-0077 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us Noguchi MuseuM (A,2) (718) 204-7088 9-01 33rd Rd, Astoria www.noguchi.org ReisStudios (A,3) “An international community of established and emerging artists” (718) 570-3663 43-01 22nd St, LIC www.ReisStudios.com SCULPTURECENTER (B,3) (718) 361-1750
110 44-19 Purves St, LIC www.sculpure-center.org
Yoga&Healing Arts center (c,2) Mosaic Cafe and Lounge (B,1) 58 Anthea 111 (718) 728-0708 (718) 606-0049
96
The Secret Theatre (B,3) (718) 392-0722 4402 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
Fitness (b,2) 42 Club (718) 545-0004
97
Socrates Sculpture Park (A,2) (718) 626-1533 32-01 Vernon Blvd, Astoria www.socratessculpturepark.org
98
Ten10 Studios (A,4) (646) 271-5353 10-10 47th Rd, LIC www.ten10studios.com
34-01 45th Street, Astoria www.antheacenter.com 31-11 Broadway, Astoria www.clubfitnessny.com
76
CROSSFIT Dynamix Gym (C,1) (718) 606-0381 36-05 20th Ave, Astoria www.dynamixgym.com
77
Heart and Soul of yoga (c,2) (718) 932-2567 At 35th St. and Broadway, Astoria www.heartandsoulofyoga.com
78
Seek Fitness (B,1) (347) 924-9004 27-18 23rd Ave, Astoria www.seek-fitness.com
79
PNT Fitness (A,4) (347) 396-5809 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC www.pntfitness.com
25-19 24th Ave, Astoria www.mosaicnyc.net
Raven Head Public House (C,2)
43 (718) 777-7565
3804 Broadway, Astoria www.ravenheadpublichouse.com Studio Sq. Beer Garden (C,3)
88 (718) 383-1001
35-33 36th St, Astoria www.studiosquarenyc.com Sweet Afton (C,2)
89 (718) 777-2570
30-09 34th St, Astoria www.sweetaftonbar.com Tantra Lounge (b,2)
70 (718) 937-4574
35-50 31st St, Astoria www.Tantraloungenyc.com
Yoga & Meditation Hatha Yoga Pranayama Sakshi Meditation Kundalini Tratak Japa First 2 classes are FREE !
22 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
3501 30th Ave, Astoria www.wfhm.com
57th St and 7th Ave, NY www.carnegiehall.org
Break (B,2)
Brick Bar (B,2)
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage (c,2)
103 (718) 310-4303
Carnegie Hall
83 (718) 777-5400
3204 Broadway, Astoria www.break-ny.com
astoria fine arts dance (c,1) (718) 247-0740 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria www.asfa-dancestudio.com
101
107 (212) 247-7800
Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden (B,1)
82 (718) 274-4925
5 Pointz (B,4) (317) 219-2685 45-46 Davis St, LIC www.5ptz.com
real estate Modern Spaces (a,4) (718) 784-1110 10-63 Jackson Ave, LIC 47-42 Vernon Blvd, LIC 29-20 23rd Ave, Astoria www.modernspacesnyc.com
99
UNDERPENNY (A,4) (917) 517-1492 10-13 50th Ave, LIC
GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED! Want your business listed in our directory? Call: (914) 426-2939 Email: ADS@BOROmag.com
NEW STUDENT
SPECIAL*
$
49
One month of unlimited yoga/Pilates classes
Two Studios. One Membership. ASTORIA • 38-01 35th Avenue • 718.274.0255 LIC •10-14 7th Road • 718.786.7962
www.the-yoga-room.com Expires: 5/31/2012
*Offer only available to students NEW to The Yoga Room
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 23
MAY EVENTS
5/3 6PM-10PM (SHOPPING)
5/7 4PM-2AM (FOOD+DRINK)
5/13 9AM-5PM (FOOD)
FREE | Daly’s Pub 917-658-3065 | 31-86 31st St, Astoria
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC
$22.95/PERSON | Astor Bake Shop 718-606-8439 | 12-23 Astoria Blvd, Astoria
“MUSIC IS MEDICINE” SHOPPING EVENT www.designforyou.biz
BEER & BACON ALL NIGHT HAPPY HOUR www.rarbarlic.com
MOTHERS DAY BRUNCH
www.astor-bakeshop.com
5/3 @ 7PM (MUSIC)
5/7 6:30PM-8:30PM (ARTS+CRAFTS)
5/13 @ 12PM (BODY+SOUL)
$70 | The Metropolitan Museum of Art 212-570-3949 | 1000 Fifth Ave, NYC
$40 | babyNOIR 646-470-4728 | 26-16 23rd Ave, Astoria
$25 | PNT Fitness 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC
CHANTICLEER IN ENGELHARD www.metmuseum.org
JAPANESE BOOKBINDING www.babynoir.net
5/3 9PM-12AM (MUSIC)
5/7 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC
$20 | The Laughing Devil 347-913-3845 | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC
VINTAGE PEOPLE
www.rarbarlic.com
SHE-DEVILS: WOMEN IN COMEDY www.laughingdevil.com
5/5 ALL DAY, ALL NIGHT (FOOD+DRINK)
5/8 11AM-12:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC
FREE | Ramakrishnananda Yoga and Meditation Center 888-474-1218 | 20-29 38th St, Astoria
CINCO DE MAYA FIESTA-DRINK SPECIALS, PROMOS, & GIVEAWAYS! www.skinnyscantina.com
5/11 (FOOD+DRINK)
www.socratessculpturepark.org
EXPLORING NEW COMPOSERS
www.laguardiaperformingarts.com
5/15 8AM-10AM (REAL ESTATE)
LIC PARTNERSHIP’S REAL ESTATE BREAKFAST $40/MEMBERS $50/NONMEMBERS | Court Square Place, UN Federal Credit Union 718-786-5300 x 21 | 24-01 44th Rd, LIC ww w.licpartnership.org
BEAR’S 6 MONTH BIRTHDAY
5/15 6PM-8:30PM (ART)
www.bearnyc.com
FREE | Jeffrey Leder Gallery 917-767-1734 | 21-37 45th Rd, LIC
FREE | Bear 917-396-4939 | 12-14 31st Ave, Astoria 5/11 9PM-11:30PM (MUSIC)
5/5 5PM-11PM (COMMUNITY)
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria
FREE | TEN10 Studios 646-271-5353 | 10-10 47th Rd, LIC
FREE | Socrates Sculpture Park 718-956-1819 | 32-01 Vernon Blvd, LIC
www.ramakrishnanandayoga.com/astoria
www.qsac.com/steps
LICSPOT.COM LAUNCH PARTY
“CIVIC ACTION: A VISION FOR LONG ISLAND CITY” OPENING
$15/ADVANCE; $20/DOOR; $10/STUDENTS | LaGuardia Performing Arts Center 718-482-7200 | 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC
$5 | Astoria Fine Arts Dance & Fitness 718-274-0740 | 38-01 23rd Ave 2nd Floor, Astoria. www.asfa-dancestudio.com
$25 REGISTRATION FEE | Astoria Park 212-244-5560, x. 2035 21 Hoyt Ave North, Astoria
5/13 2PM-6PM (ART)
5/13 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
FIT BODIES PILATES MAT CLASS (SUMMER SHAPE-UP SERIES)
NEXT STEPS: A WALK/RUN FOR AUTISM
www.pntfitness.com
FREE HATHA CLASS
5/9 4PM-5PM (BODY+SOUL)
5/5 8:30AM-1PM (BODY+SOUL)
SUMMER OUTDOOR BOOTCAMP
REDUCTIVE: SELECTED GROUP EXHIBIT www.jeffreyledergallery.com
SCONE KALB BERNARD TRIO
5/15 7PM-8PM (BODY+SOUL)
www.thequeenskickshaw.com
$5 | Astoria Fine Arts Dance & Fitness 718-274-0740 | 38-01 23rd Ave 2nd Floor, Astoria
www.LICSpot.com
FIT BODIES PILATES MAT CLASS (SUMMER SHAPE-UP SERIES)
www.asfa-dancestudio.com
5/5 @ 8PM (THEATRE)
IMPROVIUS MAXIMUS
5/15 7PM-9PM (ART)
www.secrettheatre.com
FREE | SculptureCenter 718-361-1750 | 44-19 Purves St, LIC
PANEL DISCUSSION: THE BOLLINGER PHENOMENON
$10 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC 5/5 9:30PM-12AM (MUSIC)
www.sculpture-center.org
DJ SATURDAYS-WE ARE RELATED
FREE | The Queens Kickshaw 718-777-0913 | 40-17 Broadway, Astoria
5/19 @ 2PM (THEATRE)
THE MERMAIDS TALE
www.thequeenskickshaw.com
5/5 10PM-4AM (NIGHTLIFE)
CINCO DE MAYO CANTINA PARTY
NO COVER | Tantra Lounge 718-937-4574 | 35-50 31st St, Astoria ww w.tantraloungenyc.com
5/12 @ 1:30PM (FILM)
WALLACE & GROMIT IN “THE CURSE OF THE WERE-RABBIT”
$10/CHILDREN; $15/ADULTS; $40/FAMILY 4-PACK | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
5/19 & 5/20 @ 8PM (ENTERTAINMENT)
CAUGHT IN THE ACT
5/6 @ 9AM (BODY+SOUL)
FREE W/MUSEUM ADMISSION | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria
$25 | PNT Fitness 347-396-5809 | 10-68 Jackson Ave, LIC
5/12 @ 7PM (MUSIC)
5/20 @ 7PM (DANCE)
THE ART OF SHOPPING
$30; $15 DAY-OF FOR PEOPLE UNDER 30 | The Metropolitan Museum of Art 212-570-3949 | 1000 Fifth Ave, NYC
$10 | Green Space 718-956-3037 | 37-24 24th St, LIC
www.kristeesny.com
5/12 @ 8PM (MUSIC)
5/6 1PM-3:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
$15/ADVANCE; $20/DOOR; $10/STUDENTS | LaGuardia Performing Arts Center 718-482-7200 | 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC
SPIN-A-THON: 90’S FOR 90 MIN www.pntfitness.com
5/6 12PM-5PM (SHOPPING) FREE | KrisTEES 718-204-5031 | 24-01 23rd Ave, Astoria
BUILDING RESILIENCY WITH JOE SOMODI
$45; EARLY REGISTRATION $40 | Anthea Yoga & Healing Center 718-606-0049 | 34-01 45th St, Astoria www.antheacenter.com 24 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
www.movingimage.us
METROPOLITAN MUSEUM ARTISTS IN CONCERT
www.metmuseum.org
EXPLORING NEW COMPOSERS
www.laguardiaperformingarts.com
$15 | Circus Warehouse 212-751-2174 | 53-21 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.circuswarehouse.com
FERTILE GROUND
www.greenspacestudio.org
5/21 8PM-9:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
KUNDALINI MEDITATION
FREE | Ramakrishnananda Yoga and Meditation Center 888-474-1218 | 20-29 38th St, Astoria www.ramakrishnanandayoga.com/astoria
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 25
MAY EVENTS 5/25 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
TED ALEXANDRO
5/3 @ 7:30PM; 5/4-5/5 @ 2:30PM & 7:30PM; 5/6 @ 2:30PM (THEATRE)
www.laughingdevil.com
$5 | LaGuardia Performing Arts Center 718-482-7200 | 31-10 Thomson Ave, LIC
$20 | The Laughing Devil 347-913-3845 | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC 5/26 @ 10:30PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
TED ALEXANDRO
$20 | The Laughing Devil 347-913-3845 | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
5/27 10PM-4AM (NIGHTLIFE)
MEMORIAL DAY PARTY
LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS
www.laguardiaperformingarts.com
5/3-5/19; THURS/FRI @ 8PM; SAT@ 2PM & 8PM (THEATRE)
THE SECRET GARDEN
$18; $12 STUDENTS/SENIORS | Astoria Performing Arts Center 866-811-4111 | 30-44 Crescent St, Astoria www.apacny.org
EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT (FOOD+DRINK)
DISCO TACO TUESDAYS W/$3 TACOS
FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC www.skinnyscantina.com
EVERY WEDNESDAY @ 7:30PM (NIGHTLIFE)
SKINNY’S SEXY SALSA WEDNESDAYS
FREE | Skinny’s Cantina 718-806-1068 | 47-05 Center Blvd, LIC www.skinnyscantina.com
EVERY THURSDAY @ 9PM (MUSIC)
LIVE JAM @ WGM
NO COVER | Tantra Lounge 718-937-4574 | 35-50 31st St, Astoria
5/4-5/13; TIMES VARY (FILM)
FREE | Winegasm Bar & Eatery 718-932-3331 | 31-86 37th St, Astoria
5/30 6PM-7:30PM (BODY+SOUL)
FREE | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
EVERY FRIDAY 10PM-4AM (NIGHTLIFE)
www.tantraloungenyc.com
FREE HATHA YOGA CLASS
FREE | Ramakrishnananda Yoga and Meditation Center 888-474-1218 | 20-29 38th St, Astoria www.ramakrishnanandayoga.com/astoria
ONGOING 5/1-5/12; TUES-SAT @ PM; SUN @ 3PM (THEATRE)
DEINDE
$18 | The Secret Theater 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.fluxtheatre.org
5/2-5/6 @ 3PM, 7PM, & 9PM (THEATRE)
TREASURES: A COLLECTION OF FOUR SHORT PLAYS $18 | The Secret Theatre 718-392-0722 | 44-02 23rd St, LIC www.secrettheatre.com
26 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
FASHION IN FILM FESTIVAL: IF LOOKS COULD KILL
5/12-5/20 @ 8PM (NIGHTLIFE+ENTERTAINMENT)
LAUGHING DEVIL COMEDY FESTIVAL
$15-$20 | The Laughing Devil 347-913-3845 | 47-38 Vernon Blvd, LIC www.laughingdevil.com
5/18-5/27; TIMES VARY (FILM)
WES ANDERSON’S WORLDS
FREE | Museum of the Moving Image 718-777-6800 | 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria www.movingimage.us
EVERY TUESDAY 9PM-11PM (COMEDY)
WHINE & CHEESE COMEDY SHOW
FREE | Rest-Au-Rant 718-729-90009 | 30-01 35th Ave, LIC www.rarbarlic.com
www.winegasmeatery.com
LIVING LARGE FRIDAYS: $300 MAGNUM BOTTLES ALL NIGHT NO COVER | Tantra Lounge 718-937-4574 | 35-50 31st St, Astoria www.tantraloungenyc.com
EVERY SATURDAY 10PM-4AM (NIGHTLIFE)
INTERNATIONAL SATURDAYS
NO COVER | Tantra Lounge 718-937-4574 | 35-50 31st St, Astoria www.tantraloungenyc.com
Find more May events at www.BOROmag.com/Events
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 27
ART
LIC Arts
Open This Month! Plus, What Makes Our Neighborhood Unique As An Arts Haven? Story Matthew Taylor
From May 12-20, the second annual LIC Arts Open (LICAO) will turn western Queens into a culture lover’s dream, featuring open studios, sculptures, performances and even a day-long block party. Such a celebration is a tribute to a rising neighborhood that, as LICAO Director Richard Mazda puts it, is ready to become “internationally famous as a destination for an arts festival.” The growing regard for LIC as a respected arts community inspires questions: How did the neighborhood get where it is today? How is it unique compared to other art centers? And finally, where is LIC headed?
A BIT OF HISTORY Mazda cites sculptors Mark di Suvero, who created Socrates Sculpture Park on an abandoned landfill in the 1980’s, and Joel Shapiro, recipient of the inaugural LICAO Lifetime Achievement Award, as two of LIC’s artistic pioneers. Their work in the area ran concurrent with the founding of establishments such as PS1 (now MoMA PS1) in the early 70’s and 5Pointz (originally the Phun Phactory) in the 90’s – both now acclaimed NYC arts destinations. Carol Crawford, president of the nonprofit group LIC Artists (LICA) was making art in Jamaica, Queens, when artists first began using the warehouses and industrial spaces that had fallen into disuse in LIC. She found the area “very lonely because of all the day buildings; artists were scattered and kept to themselves.” They were nonetheless drawn to the area, though, she says, because of the “residential neighborhoods tucked against industrial buildings. The oddangled streets made pockets for people to live and work.”
ART BY (STARTING TOP LEFT) Bertille de Baudinière, Deborah Trella, Hayon Jay Lee, and Tomasz Bogacki.
28 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
As Mazda explains, “The derelict buildings were an attractive proposition. Artists are always the first to colonize desolation. They see perfection in rubble, dirt and bleakness. LIC had a lot of that to offer.”
MORE RECENT MATTERS In 2001, Brazilian artist Juvenal Reis moved from Dallas to New York, ending up in LIC. “I didn’t know anything about [the neighborhood],” he admits, “but the location was wonderful. It was wide open and quiet.” He soon grew tired of his small studio and rented a larger space in an old manufacturing building to subdivide among high-quality artists. What began as 3,500 square feet in April 2002 is now the 70,000 square foot Reis Studios, a workspace featuring a gallery, communal space and over 180 private studios. Situated nearby is the LIC Art Center, a five-story building with galleries, dance classes and Mazda’s own Secret Theatre. LICA, on the other hand, has no permanent home. The organization, which operates on small annual membership fees, seeks to cultivate community through events and ongoing dialogue with artists. As Crawford says, “when artists come together, they are grateful for real communication.”
ART BY (STARTING TOP LEFT) Jack Diamond, Amir Ben-Moshe, Jean-Patrick Guilbert, Barry Stern, Amy Geller, and Carol Crawford.
In that spirit, LICA puts on Show & Tell events at galleries on the first Monday of every month. These shows allow artists to share work and collaborate on projects. Crawford’s biggest wish is to create ways for “local artists to have shows together more regularly, to have artist-run spaces that aren’t controlled by people just looking to make money.” MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 29
ART
THE ROLE OF THE FESTIVAL Reis and Jeffrey Leder, who personally runs a two-year-old gallery in a historic LIC brownstone, are Co-Directors of Development for the LICAO. Leder says the festival has already helped “foster the spirit of camaraderie in the LIC art world.” Mazda sees the festival as a prime opportunity to showcase a “full spectrum of multidisciplinary art” that isn’t found in art neighborhoods with narrower demographics. “Artists here range from fresh out of high school to their 80’s,” he says. Leder also points to the unique balance between art and business in LIC as a fundamental component of the festival’s success. “There is a strong mutual respect between the two entities here,” he says, and that allows for expansion. This year’s festival will include large exhibitions throughout Queens Plaza, which wasn’t involved in 2011. “This festival is going to surprise you,” says Mazda. “There’s a feeling that the [LICAO] can hit a record.”
LOOKING FORWARD While there is a great deal of excitement about the state of the arts in LIC, Crawford has some cautionary points as well. “Current development is insensitive to the needs of the artistic community,” she says, alluding to the imminent destruction of 5Pointz to build high-rise condos, as well as the paradoxical trend of neighborhoods pricing out the artists that made them attractive to begin with. “It’s important to preserve the mixed community. The LICA has the power to be the core of artists banding together.” Leder’s perception of the business community’s good will toward artists was reinforced in this year’s LICAO fundraising, however. The festival’s largest sponsor? Court Square Diner, a 21-year area mainstay. Mazda says, “Steven Kanellos, the diner’s owner, wanted to show his appreciation to the artists who long ago helped transform the area from a desolate place full of crime and prostitutes.” Kanellos, perhaps, recognized early on an undeniably powerful element of our neighborhood: what Crawford describes as the “generosity and humanity of most artists.” LIC Arts Open | www.licartsopen.org LIC Artists | www.licartists.org Reis Studios | 43-01 22nd St., LIC | 718-784-5577 www.reisstudios.com Jeffrey Leder Gallery | 21-37 45th Rd., LIC 917-767-1734 | www.jeffreyledergallery.com
ART BY (STARTING TOP LEFT) Paula Elliot, Carolyn Ard, Alyssa D’anna, Donna Levinstone, Victoria Febrer, and Eleanor Rahim.
30 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 31
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
The Path to Self-Reliance How Queens Entrepreneurs Became Their Own Bosses
F
Story Daniel Crown
ew things are more synonymous with “The American Dream” than self-employment. But while anyone can dream of being his or her own boss, only a special breed of person can take life by the horns.
Jacob Morvay first met Steve Hofstetter at the Dog Run at Hunter’s Point South. They now co-own Laughing Devil.
To quote the great Vince Lombardi: “The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather in a lack of will.” To help inspire you into action, we highlight the stories of two standout local businesses. Everyone involved took calculated risks and subsequently flourished. Will you be next?
Laughing Devil Comedy Club The story of the Laughing Devil Comedy Club begins with a serendipitous encounter fit for a post-millennial bromance flick. Jacob Morvay, an accountant, first met Steve Hofstetter, a stand-up comedian, at the Dog Run at Hunter’s Point South. “It was his first day with his dog,” Morvay chuckled as he recounted the tale. “He looked nervous.” For Morvay and Hofstetter, a casual conversation about pet care soon blossomed into a friendship. The duo, along with their respective wives, began to paint the town red on double dates. As their relationship evolved, Hofstetter, who already owned a piece of three comedy clubs outside of New York, began to vocalize his intentions to open another one somewhere in the city. “One night he was talking to me about what that would be like,” Morvay said, “and in jest I began to change the conversation from ‘his’ club to ‘our’ club.” The next day, Hofstetter approached Morvay to gauge his actual interest. After mulling it over, the accountant agreed. Citing a lack of Queens-based entertainment venues, the pair immediately seized on their own neighborhood, Long Island City, as a perfect spot for what would ultimately become the Laughing Devil. The strategy proved sound. “For more than 5 million people, we’re the closest fulltime comedy club,” Hofstetter said. “We’re the only club between Manhattan and Bellmore.” 32 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
This neighborhood-centric approach to comedy has paid immediate dividends for the duo. The Laughing Devil has turned a profit every month since its grand opening in December 2011. While Morvay may have been nervous from the outset, he’s glad that he went for it. “It’s kind of cool to own your own bar,” he said. “I mean, we have 14 beers on tap. It’s nice to know that anytime I want one I can stroll around the corner and grab it.” Laughing Devil Comedy Club | 4738 Vernon Blvd, LIC 347-913-3845 | www.laughingdevil.com
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 33
YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS
Supernova Tattoos Andreana Verona knows a thing or two about inking. She is a 20-year veteran of the industry, and the art of tattoo has long been the only constant in her otherwise itinerant life. “When I started, I was a different person,” she said. “Experience changes you. But the tattooing itself is always the same.” While in most cases the metaphor of “life as a journey” rings a bit trite, literal truth far outweighs romantic conceit in Verona’s story. Her pre-Queens history in the tattoo business reads like a travelogue. She got her start in her native Italy in 1992, working alongside a longtime boyfriend. After four years, the couple separated, spurring a brief stint tattooing in Madrid. She then spent a year in Puerto Rico before ultimately settling in New York in 1998. After a three-year stay at Astoria’s Studio Enigma, she moved on to a parlor she co-owned. Creative differences eventually divided the partnership, at which point she was finally ready to branch out on her own. She opened Supernova Tattoo in 2004 and hasn’t looked back since. “When you have a partner, there’s always some kind of problem,” she said. “Owning your own business, there’s a lot more freedom; though with that comes a lot of new challenges. Sometimes I feel like I need a 48 hour day.” If Verona has a lot to do, it’s only because business is booming. The artist recently upgraded to a bigger space on 23rd Avenue, which she hopes can accommodate the increase in patronage. Despite the stresses of the move, Verona points out that the benefits more than make up for any loss of sleep. “I like the pressure,” she says. “It’s a rush. When you make it on your own, it’s much more of an accomplishment.” Supernova Tattoos | 38-01 23rd Ave, Astoria 718-274-5712 | www.supernovatattoo.com
34 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
With 20 years of industry experience, safe to say Andreana Verona knows a thing or two about inking.
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 35
VOLUNTEER
Volunteer In Your Local Community
4 Great Organizations That Could Use Your Help Story Matthew Taylor
V
olunteering is a remarkable way to get involved in the local community, and it’s no secret that helping others feels great. Still, you can come up with an infinite amount of excuses not to volunteer, particularly in New York, where time is such a scarce resource.
BORO, though, has taken the first step for you, and is happy to share four incredible places to volunteer right here in western Queens. The time commitment and organizations themselves vary, meaning there’s something for everyone. Even an hour or two can help create tangible change, so we encourage you to devote some time and energy to volunteering – not next week, not after your summer vacation, but NOW!
City Meals on Wheels Volunteer, Jason Darensbourg delivering food in NYC.
A volunteer helps paint the small spots on the wall at a QSAC facility.
City Meals On Wheels
Quality Services for the Autism Community
City Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious food to elderly homebound New Yorkers throughout the five boroughs. Volunteers are welcome to help deliver meals during weekends, holidays and emergencies. A list of locations where volunteers are needed is available – along with an application – on the City Meals on Wheels website. If you’re looking for something more local, Sunnyside Community Services (also affiliated with City Meals on Wheels), offers a volunteer program for individuals who are able to commit to one hour per week for six months. These volunteers do not deliver food; rather, they go on weekly “friendly visits” to homebound seniors, providing company, conversation and even escorted visits to doctors. The bonds that form during these visits are powerful for seniors and volunteers alike. City Meals On Wheels | 355 Lexington Ave., NYC 212-687-1234 | www.citymeals.org Sunnyside Community Services Location | 43-31 39th St, Sunnyside | 718-784-6173
36 | BOROMAG.COM | MAY 2012
Quality Services for the Autism Community (QSAC), an organization dedicated to ensuring people with autism live meaningful and fulfilling lives, provides volunteers with what they describe as “a custom experience.” From helping for three hours at one of their many special events to serving three days a week as part of the front desk team – which is completely run by volunteers – QSAC offers a multitude of opportunities to get involved. Banks and other large companies often sponsor large-scale projects for QSAC and bring employees on site to help. The volunteer application on QSAC’s website helps tailor your experience, whether you’re looking for clerical work, hoping to paint facilities or willing to devote your energy in any number of other ways. Upcoming QSAC events include a 5K run/walk in Astoria Park on May 5 and the group’s annual gala/fundraiser on June 12. Quality Services for the Autism Community Various locations throughout Manhattan and Queens 718-728-8476 | www.qsac.com
A volunteer sits in daycare and reads a children’s book with a little boy in the LIC-based Hour Children program.
Hour Children
Ali Forney Center
Linda Manzione, Program Director of LIC-based Hour Children, says that volunteering here has a special impact because it directly benefits the lives of children and adults in at-risk populations. This nonprofit provides care for children with incarcerated mothers and helps families through the process of reunification. The name is inspired by the various hours that dramatically affect these children’s lives: the hour of the mother’s arrest, the hour during which they can visit her and the hour of her return.
The Ali Forney Center provides safe housing and support for one of New York City’s most vulnerable populations: homeless LGBT teens. While there are no day centers in Queens, the 15-bed Astoria shelter prepares breakfast and dinner and aims to cultivate what Bill Torres, Director of Community Resources, describes as a home-like environment.
Volunteers can dedicate their energy to a wide range of areas, including after-school programs, food pantries, licensed daycares/nurseries and Hour Children’s thrift stores located throughout Astoria. Call for more information, or apply by filling out the application on Hour Children’s website. Hour Children | 13-07 37th Ave., LIC 718-433-4724 x. 220 | www.hourchildren.org
The facility prefers volunteers who can help on a consistent basis. Torres says that the duties are “very much a collaboration” between volunteers, from helping with meals to talking with teens about their days to working with them to process difficult events. For more information, email btorres@aliforneycenter.org. If you are ready to apply now, email volunteer@aliforneycenter.org. Ali Forney Center | 212-991-0853 www.aliforneycenter.org
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inspiration
BORO
’S MOM
Sunday, May 13 is Mother’s Day. We asked the BORO team to tell us how their mothers have been an inspiration in their lives. Tell us how your mother has inspired you! Email info@boromag.com with your story and maybe you’ll see it on BOROmag.com. 1 Nadine Lesser: Julian Lesser
My mother has inspired me with her strength and creativity. She has always taught me to trust my gut and follow my dreams. She has supported my ventures, sometimes with hesitation - but that has taught me to review, research and question. Thanks Mom! Sending you lot’s of love! – Julian, Editor, Publisher and Founder
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2 Phu Trinh: Philippe Trinh
Polly Trinh is one of the strongest women I know. She survived cancer and a recent loss of her own mother. Today she is a mother of three: a doctor, graphic designer, and fashion designer. She continues to be the source of all our artistic talent, strength and success. Today is about you mom, we love you beyond words! – Philippe, Creative Director
3 Letitia Cason: Emma Cason-Pratt
All my life, my mother has worked with children battling cancer. My mother’s thoughtfulness, patience, and compassion for others has been a source of inspiration for me to be always thankful for what I have and to remember that you never know what battles others are fighting. – Emma, Graphic Designer
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4 Cathy Enright: Matthew Taylor
My mom’s positive attitude and perseverance have inspired me. Though she has faced plenty of obstacles in her life, she remains one of the most optimistic, consistently upbeat people I know. These traits have taught me how to remain positive even in unlikely circumstances. – Matthew, Online Editorial Coordinator
5 Joann Hawks: Bradley Hawks
Much of the very best of who I am is a direct reflection of my mother, Joann Hawks. Most importantly, she taught me the importance and power of unconditional love— inspiring me to love others (and myself ) not in spite of what they are not, but because of everything they are. – Bradley, Staff Writer and Photographer
6 Darlene McNamara: Rebecca McNamara
My mother is the only person I know who mails two cards per birthday—because one is never enough. She is loving, generous and sticks to her convictions. She has taught me to always keep candy in the candy dishes, and always make time for family. – Rebecca, Staff Writer
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Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. 2012 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. AS622384 4/12-7/12
MAY 2012 | BOROMAG.COM | 39
Boro deals & discounts Be local and enjoy the below offers from some of Astoria and LIC’s best merchants. Offers available through May 31, 2012. Bring BORO or coupon below to redeem discount. Limited to 1 use per reader. Merchant restrictions may apply.
FREE Churros Dessert with meal.
1 FREE Glass of wine or dessert with your meal (sun-thurs).
5% OFF your order with BORO Magazine. 15% OFF
1 FREE drink and comedy show with meal on Tuesday nights 9PM-Closing.
1 FREE Signature Cocktail with your meal.
your next visit..
WINEGASM 1 FREE glass of wine with your meal.
$20 OFF any 6 foot natural heroe sandwich. 1 FREE pint with any sandwich sun-thur.
LOCALE $79.99 for the RCN bundle package
(Digital TV and High-Speed internet).
1 FREE dance or fitness class for new stu-
1 FREE Glass of Wine or Dessert with meal. Redeemable mon-thurs.
Limited to select wines.
Excludes prix fixe.
1 COMPLIMENTARY glass of wine with your meal. Redeemable mon-thurs.
dents with ad @ Astoria Fine Arts Dance.
time color clients (tues-thurs).
Complimentary Blowout for first
15% OFF entire purchase.
10% OFF when you spend $100 or more.
2 weeks unlimited classes for $40.
$50 Summer Slimdown. 30 Days of nonstop classes.
1 FREE premium Cocktail thur-fri (Before
15% OFF all hourly legal fees.
10% OFF any wine purchase.
$49 for 1 month unlimited yoga and pilates
$10 OFF your visit with BORO Magazine.
Want to learn more about advertising? Call us at (914) 426-2939.
12am)
classes. Offer only available to New students.