Posts categorized as Rockaway

I recently visited the newly opened Far Rockaway Library, and it was such a wonderful experience that I have to share it with you. The modern, pyramid-shaped building sits at the corner of Central and Mott Ave., standing out against the hodgepodge of storefronts that line the street. It’s especially striking if you’re familiar with the area—you can really sense its impact. The building features vibrant yellow and gold ombre tones with graphic, organic line drawings from top to bottom. Combined with reflections of the surrounding buildings and passersby on […]

The warm colors and intricate textures of an autumn garden are often overlooked, but not by nature enthusiasts, earth lovers, mystics, and our witches. We see the world in a different way. We see the big beauty in the small bits. We know the less popular and tainted hold more wonders. Just the other week, while puttering around the Beach 91st Street Garden, I spotted a songbird feeding on a spent sunflower, its seeds neatly tucked into their own little compartments. How is that even possible? A sleepy grasshopper rested […]

Singer-songwriter Ryan Thomas. Photo by Alec Kugler. This Sunday, September 24th, don’t miss the party at Connolly’s as they close out the season with a record release show for my talented and “lonely no more” friend, Ryan Thomas, who performs under the name, Nobody & All His Friends. The show starts at 4pm and I promise it will be a super cool time, in space and sound. Things get wonderful early evening with performances by Vera Kahn, Tini Vessel and Sangwich & Sons. I’d like to share a bit about Ryan, his […]

The adrenaline turns on when I see 10 pies on the line. My arms are moving automatically. My thinking is sharp. I sauce and reach my fingertips for each fresh ingredient. The order you top is important because the flavors fuse in different ways under the 800-degree heat of burning wood. In April, I made the decision to push myself out of my comfort zone. I needed a shift. Where will it lead? I laugh, at 43 years old I’m slingin’ pies. I work in the pizza industry now. And […]

“Hey, I have an idea, let’s make a tomato-scented soap!” Over the winter, Mike Benigno of Holland Avenue. Soap, Co. reached out asking if I’d like to collaborate on creating my very own Glorified Tomato garden soap. I kinda lost it!! “Yes.” I said. Mike has partnered with others to create custom soaps like community group Sea Changes and The Beach 91st Street Community Garden, drawing inspiration from their unique complexions. He offers personalized, create-your-own scented soap for individuals, customized soap for a special event such as a bridal or baby shower. And […]

I first encountered Obama perched on the rafters of my gutted third-floor attic nine years ago. He looked me over for a minute before leaping onto another beam and disappearing. My new house was his house apparently, except he didn’t have to pay the mortgage. Rumor on 91st is, that he was abandoned at one year old by a tenant who moved out, forcing him to fend for himself on the streets.  He had a rough start, but found his place as the official “watchdog” of 91st Street, patrolling the […]

Dive into the world of polyamory at Peninsula Library. Explore the complexities and dynamics of non-monogamous relationships alongside heartwarming cat photos. I go to the library often to write my column. It offers a distraction-free environment, unlike the sink full of dishes at home or my mischievous cat, Fivey, pouncing on the keyboard. As a freelancer, stepping out of the house and into the library makes me feel like a grown-up, productive human. Also, the Peninsula branch is pretty darn cool. Learn everything from computer programming to skateboarding and surfing. This sign […]

The off-season cafe, Others, located at the Beach 97th Street concession wrapped up last weekend until next year. Others brought us the combined culinary talents of Washed Up Beach Cafe (washedup.nyc) and Brothers (@brothersrockaway) eatery. We were fed otherworldly offerings, the strongest steaming hot coffees, breakfast burritos infused with tater tots, creamy ricotta toast delicately topped with sweet carrots, warm pesto eggs sandwiches, so many sweet treats, Zak Daddy smash burgers, and pop-up specials featuring mouthwater foods from guest chefs. A beautiful, etched glass memento of the LOG was gifted […]

In our close-knit town, nothing goes unnoticed. When wooden flower boxes suddenly adorned the building at the corner of 91st street this summer, my curiosity was piqued. I needed to find out more. I entered through the side door and was greeted by the soothing, soft scent of incense. I smiled when I discovered this was a new brick and mortar boutique, housing beautiful, hand-crafted offerings. The flower box signaled care and commitment, telling signs, to the larger story… Last year, Rockaway resident Nicole Dubensky opened Kismet. A cozy shop […]

Fall is the best time to hike, walk, spy migratory birds, and embrace the changing leaf landscape. And we don’t have to make a trip up to Hudson to enjoy all that. NYC Parks offers us diverse natural and urban landscapes with endless exploring and learning opportunities. Would you guess we have over 1,700 parks, playgrounds, and recreation areas throughout the five boroughs? I was impressed to read that number. I’d estimate a few hundred of those green spaces are in Rockaway. It’s fair to say we’ve all noticed the […]