Spotlight | Staten Island Proud - Pienza Brick Oven Pizza

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing a livelihood and rich culture for our neighbors, family, and friends. Join us as we get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, we are happy to share information about the great food and amazing people at Pienza Brick Oven Pizza on South Avenue!

Pienza Brick Oven Pizza is a quick-service restaurant located in Corporate Commons Three, in the Corporate Commons Complex on Staten Island. “Our favorite town in Italy is Pienza,” owners Lois and Richard Nicotra explain. “It is a Tuscan town, and the flavors of its cheese, meat, and pizza are worth the trip. We love Staten Island, and we want to bring the tastes we enjoy to our beautiful borough. We are trying to transport a little of this Tuscan town right here in New York.”

The Tuscan cuisine includes pizzas, calzones, and rolls hot from the brick oven. In the mood for pasta?  They offer imported De Cecco rigatoni, spaghetti, penne, and fettuccine.  The tomatoes and herbs were picked fresh!  

In a move close to Broadway Stages’ heart, much of their food is grown locally, upstairs on the rooftop organic farm. Pienza’s food incorporates fresh produce from the 40,000-square-foot organic rooftop farm located at the top of the Nicotras’ office building. Indoors, two giant olive trees grow across the ceiling of the eatery, and outdoors, a large seating area overlooks a grape vineyard.

Richard Nicotra said. “By eliminating any use of pesticides, our Farm hosts an ecosystem that allows Mother Nature to bring the fruits and vegetables to harvest without man-made interference. Nicotra Grown Organic Rooftop Farm has yielded romaine lettuce, arugula, raspberries, tomatoes, basil, lavender, thyme, zucchini, patty pan squash, and more.

The motto at Pienza’s is Mangia Bene, Fai Bene, or Eat Good, Do Good. The pizza, pasta, and antipasto definitely qualify for the Eat Good aspect of the motto. And their environmental stewardship alone would qualify them for the Do Good part. But Pienza’s is also a social enterprise eatery or, as owners Lois & Richard Nicotra call it, a socially responsible restaurant.

The Italian eatery, a sister restaurant to the Nicotras’ Commons Cafè, also located at the Teleport, will gift 100% of its profits to charity. The Nicotras don’t take a penny of profit from the two social enterprises. They have gifted profits of more than $1 million in donations to the Staten Island community through grants to non-profit groups and as higher education scholarships to their employees’ children and grandchildren.

Pienza’s is open Monday through Friday, 11 am to 7 pm. If you want, you can order ahead HERE. We suggest following them on Facebook and Instagram for offers and events or just to feast with your eyes! Stop by for a slice or three (it’s for a good cause)! And don’t forget to tell the Broadway Stages sent you!

Staten Island Proud | K&S Industrial Corporation

Broadway Stages is celebrating its 40th trip around the sun by shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing a livelihood and rich culture for our neighbors, family, and friends. Join us as we get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, we take a look at K&S Industrial Corporation and the fantastic reputation they’ve built over the years.

In today's fast-paced commercial, industrial, and domestic industries, finding a reliable and comprehensive supply store can be a challenging task. However, on Staten Island there is one company that stands out with great service and unwavering support to its customers, K&S Industrial Corp. Since its establishment in 1988 by owners Kevin and Kathy Smith, K&S Industrial has been a trusted leader in the field. The company is a true all-in-one supply and tool store, catering to commercial, industrial, and domestic customers alike! Whether you require supplies for office buildings, industrial plants, schools, or homes, K&S Industrial has got you covered. As a leader among HVAC supply stores, they specialize in providing an extensive range of building and maintenance supplies. From plumbing and electrical components to HVAC systems, hardware, small appliances, and stationary, K&S Industrial ensures that their customers can find everything they need under one roof. Additionally, they take pride in their ability to source hard-to-find items, going above and beyond to meet the unique requirements of their customers.

What sets K&S Industrial apart from other industrial supply stores is its unwavering commitment to customer service. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, the company has honed its expertise in understanding the needs of its customers. K&S Industrial not only offers competitive prices, but also goes the extra mile to provide a personalized and friendly experience. The dedicated staff members are always ready to assist customers with their inquiries, ensuring that they find the right solutions for their specific needs. Whether it's a quick question or a detailed product search, K&S Industrial's knowledgeable team is always there to provide valuable assistance.

While many industrial supply stores offer a limited variety of products, K&S Industrial takes a different approach. They understand that each customer's needs are unique and require individual attention. If there's something you're looking for that isn't readily available in their inventory, they will make every effort to source it for you. This dedication to customer satisfaction ensures that you never have to compromise on your requirements. Whether you need industrial, business, or any other specialized products, K&S Industrial's commitment to getting what you need is unwavering.

K&S Industrial Isn’t just your run-of-the-mill business, it’s an integral part of the Staten Island community. As a locally-owned and operated company, it plays a vital role in the economic growth and development of the area. By offering a wide range of products and services, K&S Industrial attracts customers from various sectors, contributing to the local economy. Additionally, the company's commitment to exceptional customer service fosters strong relationships within the community, creating a sense of trust and reliability. K&S Industrial Corp. has established itself as the go-to supply and tool store on Staten Island. With an extensive inventory, a service-oriented approach, and an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, they have become a leader among industrial supply stores. By offering a diverse range of products, including hard-to-find items, they ensure that their customers' needs are always met. Furthermore, K&S Industrial's positive economic impact on the surrounding communities showcases its dedication to fostering growth and prosperity. When it comes to fulfilling your supply requirements, K&S Industrial is undoubtedly the top choice for businesses, industries, and individuals alike.

Staten Island Proud | Snug Harbor Cultural Center

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing a livelihood and rich culture for our neighbors, family, and friends. Join us as we get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, our journey takes us to the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden in the heart of Randall Manor!

Located on the North Shore of Staten Island, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden is  where history, architecture, the arts, gardens, agriculture, and education come together. Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is the result of more than four decades of restoration and development to convert a 19th-century charitable rest home for sailors into a regional arts center, botanical gardens, and public park.

Six of Snug Harbor’s original structures were the first designated landmarks for New York City’s Landmarks Preservation Commission in 1965, including the majestic Main Hall (built in 1833) and Music Hall (built in 1892), one of the oldest concert halls in New York City.

In early 1970, the property was purchased by the city of New York to transform it into a public cultural resource. In 1975 the not-for-profit Snug Harbor Cultural Center was formed to operate the buildings, and the Staten Island Botanical Gardens managed the gardens. The two organizations merged in 2008 to form Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden.

In addition to fourteen distinctive gardens spread across the campus, it’s also home to the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art, The New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden, Snug Harbor Artist Residency Program (SHARP), Staten Island Museum, Staten Island Children’s Museum, and The Noble Maritime Collection.

Such a vast and encompassing operation needs lots of support. You can lend a hand by volunteering or you can financially support all that the Cultural Center and Botanical Gardens do by clicking HERE.

Snug Harbor is a hub of activity, and there is something for everyone. Yoga, agriculture, historical tours, scholarly lectures, and artistic performances. You can browse their calendar or subscribe to their Facebook and Twitter pages to stay abreast of the latest! While you are at it, follow them on Instagram and YouTube to bask in all the splendor they have to offer!

Just a note, only two attractions – the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art and the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden require minimal admission fees and have different hours of operation. Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden’s main outdoor grounds and gardens are free of charge to the public, open 7 days a week from dawn to dusk, and do not require advance registration or ticketing. Best of all, pets are allowed! So, plan your visit today, and be sure to tell them that Broadway Stages sent you.

Staten Island Proud | Pratt Industries Paper Mill

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing a livelihood and rich culture for our neighbors, family, and friends. Join us as we get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, we take a peek at Pratt Industries Paper Mill and their specialized approach to sustainable practices.

In today's world, where environmental consciousness and corporate social responsibility are paramount, companies like Pratt Industries Paper Mill on Staten Island are setting an example. Pratt Industries is renowned for its commitment to sustainability, innovative packaging solutions, and positive contributions to surrounding communities. One of the company's core objectives is to provide the industry's best packaging solutions by utilizing 100% recycled paper from its five mills. This approach not only optimizes packaging for customers, but also reduces waste and promotes sustainability.

With advanced manufacturing techniques, Pratt Industries produces high-performance products using discarded paper collected from various sources from across America. By converting this waste into valuable packaging materials, the company saves more than 85,000 trees every day. The environmental impact is profound, as each ton of paper produced by Pratt Industries saves 3.3 cubic yards of waste from landfills, 7,000 gallons of water, 4,000 kWh of power, and 1.00 ton of CO2 emissions. The company's strict adherence to environmental standards demonstrates its dedication to preserving the planet for future generations.

Pratt Industries aligns its values with the Triple Bottom Line, a concept that emphasizes sustainability encompassing People, Planet, and Profit. Understanding that economic success alone is not enough, the company integrates social and environmental factors into its business practices. By championing sustainability, they actively support the well-being of their employees, the surrounding communities, and the planet. This holistic approach ensures a balance between corporate success and long-term societal benefits.

Pratt Industries believes in giving back to the community and has a long-standing tradition of philanthropy. Since its establishment, the company has donated significant resources, funds, and manpower to various charitable organizations, environmental groups, and disaster relief initiatives. The Pratt Foundation, initiated by the late worldwide chairman Richard Pratt, has made substantial contributions to causes ranging from education and disaster recovery to healthcare research. Additionally, Pratt employees actively participate in fundraising and volunteer activities, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Pratt Industries recognizes the privilege of being involved in activities aimed at enriching the lives of others. The company's commitment to the communities in which it operates extends beyond philanthropy. Through job creation, economic growth, and responsible business practices, Pratt Industries fosters a positive impact on the surrounding areas. By prioritizing sustainability, the company sets an example for other businesses, inspiring them to adopt environmentally conscious practices that benefit both society and the economy.

Pratt Industries Paper Mill stands as a beacon of sustainability and community impact. By actively engaging in philanthropy and supporting various charitable causes, Pratt Industries demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility. As we navigate a world that requires collective effort to preserve the environment and enhance society, Pratt Industries serves as a role model for businesses striving to achieve the Triple Bottom Line of sustainability: People, Planet, and Profit.

Staten Island Proud | Staten Island Children’s Museum

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses and organizations that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods, services, and experiences that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in Staten Island and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood and rich culture. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and organizations that make our community home. Today, our journey takes us to the Staten Island Children’s Museum at Snug Harbor!

Broadway Stages continues to promote the inclusion of experiences, talents, and culture in our community while helping individuals reach their true potential. A Staten Island organization that shares these goals is the Staten Island Children’s Museum. Founded in 1974 and located in a historical setting on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens, the Staten Island Children’s Museum is a non-profit organization that offers 40,000 square feet of interactive exhibits as well as a picnic and performance pavilion on the East Meadow. Onsite activities include interactive art and STEAM programs for daily visitors, school groups, camps, and birthday parties; and offsite activities are held at schools, after school programs, community centers, and at community events.

The mission of the Museum is to nurture the creativity and curiosity natural to all children, to recognize and celebrate different learning styles, and to demonstrate vividly that learning can be exciting and fun. Children ages 1+ can experience exhibits, dance and art workshops, science and story times, as well as after-school, school break, and summer camps. The Museum has an exciting roster activities happening this summer, including Summer Mini Camps. Be sure to check out their full calendar of events here.

Planning your visit
The Museum encourages visitors to book tickets in advance online here. General public tickets are $8 and are delivered by email. The Museum is open Wednesdays – Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Remember to visit their website for any changes to opening hours.

Want to visit virtually?

If you are looking for virtual opportunities to experience the Museum in your home, check out their online resources page, which includes worksheets and an extensive video collection. Take time to explore this valuable local resource on Staten Island. Consider providing your support by becoming a member or donating. We also encourage you to follow them on your favorite social media platforms. 

Spotlight Queens Proud | FM Brush Co.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local shops that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today we take a look at the FM Brush Co. and the mark they have made not only in New York, but also across the world. 

In Glendale, Queens, a family-run company has been making its mark on the world for nearly a century. The FM Brush Company, established in 1929 by Frederick Mink, has become a global leader in the manufacturing of artist, cosmetic, craft, hobby, and custom-made brushes. With a legacy spanning four generations, the FM Brush Company has remained dedicated to providing customers with the finest handmade brushes available. Every brush they produce is meticulously crafted to exceed performance expectations. From the initial concept and design to the production and packaging stages, FM Brush maintains an unwavering attention to detail. Their precision tools are designed to endure under demanding conditions, ensuring durability and reliability for artists, craftsmen, and beauty professionals alike. FM Brush achieves this by utilizing precise quality standards and state-of-the-art production techniques, only sourcing materials from reputable and sustainable suppliers!

FM Brush stands apart as the only family-run American brush manufacturer in existence. This distinction brings with it a unique blend of tradition, personalized service, and unmatched expertise. Their New York City headquarters serve as the primary production facility, where superior handmade brushes are meticulously created. However, FM Brush doesn't stop at the borders of the United States. With manufacturing capabilities in Thailand, they have expanded their presence globally to meet the demands of the international art and beauty industries. This strategic positioning allows FM Brush to maintain the same high standards and craftsmanship on a global scale.

FM Brush understands the significance of being a socially responsible entity and actively contributes to causes that make a difference. The company supports the fight against animal testing by working with responsible suppliers and vendors. They source brush handles from managed national wood reforestation programs, promoting sustainable practices. Additionally, FM Brush proudly lends its support to conservation and wildlife protection organizations such as the "Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund," "Free Arts New York City," and "The Kids in Need Foundation." By assisting the "Friends of Asian Elephants," FM Brush contributes to the world's first elephant hospital located in Lampang Province, Thailand. Through these initiatives, FM Brush demonstrates its commitment to making a positive impact beyond the realm of brush manufacturing.

For 94 years, the FM Brush Company has epitomized excellence, craftsmanship, and community support. With an extensive range of handmade brushes, innovative offerings, and a global presence, they continue to shape the industry they pioneered. FM Brush's commitment to quality and their active involvement in philanthropic endeavors highlight the values they hold dear. As they embark on their journey into the future, it is evident that the FM Brush Company will remain a trailblazer in the world of brush manufacturing while uplifting the communities that surround them.

Queens Proud | Sclafmore Construction

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home.

With over 25 years of experience and a diverse portfolio of more than 500 completed projects, Sclafmore Construction has earned a reputation as a trusted partner for residential and commercial construction needs. Their unwavering dedication to quality, attention to detail, and positive impact on the surrounding neighborhoods have made them a preferred choice for discerning customers seeking construction services in Queens. The company’s foundation lies in its passionate and honest work ethic that can be seen in every project they undertake.

Sclafmore Construction offers a comprehensive range of services to meet the diverse needs of their clients. Their expertise spans various areas of construction, both interior and exterior, providing solutions that blend seamlessly with the unique character of the surrounding neighborhoods:

-          Masonry: Sclafmore Construction specializes in brick, block, and stone work, offering exquisite craftsmanship in building facades, patios, and other outdoor structures. They also excel in granite and tile installations, ensuring a perfect blend of aesthetics and durability.

-          Outdoor Projects: The company's skilled team constructs high-quality sidewalks, curbs, driveways, ramps, stairs, and stoops that enhance the functionality and visual appeal of residential and commercial properties. These outdoor spaces not only beautify the neighborhood, but also contribute to the overall livability of the area.

-          Structural Work: Sclafmore Construction's expertise extends to foundational work, retaining walls, and alterations/additions. Their commitment to precision and safety ensures that every structural project is built to withstand the test of time.

Beyond their commitment to excellence in construction, Sclafmore Construction plays a role in the economic growth and development of the surrounding neighborhoods. By undertaking diverse projects throughout Maspeth and Queens, they contribute to the local economy by creating job opportunities and stimulating the construction industry. As a reputable company with a strong track record, Sclafmore Construction instills confidence in property owners, encouraging them to invest in new and continuing projects throughout the city. This influx of construction activity not only revitalizes the neighborhood's infrastructure but also fosters a sense of pride among residents, attracting more businesses and improving property values.

So, whether you are a homeowner seeking to renovate your space or a business owner planning a commercial construction project, Sclafmore Construction stands ready to be your trusted partner, providing exceptional construction services that elevate the beauty and value of your property.

Queens Proud | Queens County Farm Museum

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, our journey takes us to the Queen’s County Farm Museum on the Little Neck Parkway!

The Queens County Farm Museum is truly a special place in New York City. Located on a 47-acre parcel in the Glen Oaks area, it is New York City’s largest remaining tract of undisturbed farmland and is one of the longest continuously farmed sites in New York State.

Dating back to 1697, the Farm Museum is a New York City Landmark, on the National Register of Historic Places, and a member of the Historic House Trust of New York City. The site includes historic farm buildings, a greenhouse complex, livestock, farm vehicles and implements, planting fields, an orchard, and an herb garden. The mission of the Farm Museum is to preserve, restore, and interpret the site, its history, and its owner’s lifestyles.

Through educational programs such as NYC’s only Farm Camp, summer field trips, and a unique hands-on school-to-farm program, the Farm Museum aims to educate the public about the significance of Queens County’s agricultural and horticultural past and heighten awareness of present-day sustainable agricultural and horticultural practices.

Some of the agricultural highlights include a Certified Monarch Waystation that supports the migration and conservation of monarch butterflies, the single, largest apiary in New York City – housing more than 2 million honey bees, and the 2023 Flower Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). Members of this subscription-based program enjoy a weekly floral arrangement made with gorgeous flowers, herbs, and greenery straight from our fields from spring through fall.

Every day holds something worthwhile at the Queens County Farm Museum, from hay rides and scavenger hunts to food sampling and educational programming. The grounds are open daily, 10 am–5 pm, and the farm store is open then as well. Feel free to call 718.347.3276 ext 116 beforehand to check for product availability.

Also, if you are interested in having your child’s (12 and under) birthday party or your own private event, that is always an option. Whether it’s an elegant gala or a barbecue hoedown, this historic site offers four different rental spaces to choose from. Each space provides you with your own unique experience on this historic site. 

Supporting the Farm Museum can be as easy as making a donation HERE or registering to volunteer HERE. But you might also consider attending A Farmer’s Dinner to Benefit Queens County Farm Museum. The festivities will take place on Thursday, July 13, from 5:30 to 9:30 pm. The event will feature a farm-to-table dinner with live music, guided tours, and special activities (5:30 pm reception; 7 pm dinner). The dinner will include select menu items grown at Queens Farm. Find more information and purchase your ticket on Eventbrite.

Broadway Stages is thrilled to know that there are so many treasures in our own backyard. From flora and pollinators to friends and educators, the Queens County Farm Museum has it all. We encourage you to follow the Farm Museum on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to watch for all of the great things that will come next. But most of all, pay them a visit and, of course, let them know Broadway Stages sent you!

Queens Proud | SRM Concrete

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, we tell the story about SRM Concrete.

In Queens, New York, SRM Concrete stands as a family-owned and operated ready-mix concrete company. Founded by Melissa and Mike Hollingshead in 1999, SRM Concrete was born out of a need for reliable customer service in the local ready-mix industry. With a humble beginning, the company has grown steadily, expanding to two locations in Queens, NY  –  one in Long Island City and the other in Ridgewood. Today, SRM Concrete can be found all over the country. Additionally, the company understands the importance of honoring and protecting the earth for future generations. SRM is committed to introducing sustainable practices and processes to manage natural resources responsibly. By implementing sustainable mining practices and recycling concrete, SRM  actively contributes to the preservation of the environment. Recycling concrete not only reduces waste but also minimizes the extraction of raw materials, promoting a circular economy

Recognizing the significance of renewable energy, SRM demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through the adoption of highly sustainable geothermal systems. When constructing their new home office, SRM Concrete made a conscious decision to implement green technology. Geothermal systems harness the natural heat energy from the earth, reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. Water plays a key role in concrete production, and SRM Concrete recognizes the importance of water conservation. From pre-soaking aggregates to washing trucks, water is used at various stages of the batching process. To ensure responsible water management, SRM Concrete implements measures to conserve this precious resource. By optimizing water usage and implementing efficient recycling systems, the company reduces its environmental impact while maintaining the highest standards of concrete production.

SRM Concrete's presence in the Queens community has had a positive economic impact. By providing career advancement opportunities and embracing family values, SRM Concrete ensures that every team member is heard, valued, and offered a path to personal and professional growth. This commitment not only strengthens the company, but also contributes to the prosperity of the surrounding communities. From their humble beginnings in Tennessee to their current operations in Queens, NY, SRM Concrete has consistently prioritized the needs of their customers while striving to minimize their environmental impact. Through their sustainable practices, noise reduction efforts, geothermal systems, water conservation initiatives, and positive economic impact, SRM Concrete demonstrates that it is possible to build a better future by integrating sustainable principles into every aspect of business operations.

Celebrate Independence Day in NYC

Independence Day is next Tuesday, July 4. Not only is it the day that we celebrate the 13 colonies’ adoption of the Declaration of Independence, but also it’s an opportunity to relax and spend time with family and friends, enjoying a variety of activities. From attending picnics and swimming at the pool or beach, to hanging out at home or viewing fireworks, everyone can find fun ways to celebrate the USA this Fourth of July. It is not too late to make plans – consider the following exciting local activities.

If you are looking for spectacular fireworks, you can view the 47th annual Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks at 8 p.m. Find the map of official viewing points here. Or head to Coney Island for their fireworks which start at 9:30 p.m. at the Coney Island Pier at Boardwalk and West 15th Street. And get to the beach early for Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be held at Nathan’s Flagship restaurant, located at 1310 Surf Avenue, on the corner of Stillwell Avenue at Coney Island.

TimeOut offers a guide containing a variety of ideas for the Fourth, including tips on where to grill, picnic, and more, as well as additional ideas here.

Whatever your plans, Broadway Stages wishes you a relaxing, fun, and safe Independence Day! Learn more about the history of the observance at History.com.

Queens Proud | Astoria Bookshop

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local shops that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, we turn the page to the Astoria Bookshop on 30th Street!

Broadway Stages is happy to give a shout-out to the independent Astoria Bookshop located at 36-19 30th Street in Astoria, Queens. Simon & Schuster alum Lexi Beach and wife Connie Rourke opened the Astoria Bookshop in 2013. As a proudly woman-owned bookshop, in addition to a broad array of options, they have a feminist book selection in nearly every genre throughout the shop, as well as a great lineup of female authors who visit for book discussions, and a monthly feminist book club.

But it’s so much more! “The inventory is a mix of my personal favorites - and favorites of my slowly growing staff-books that are highly recommended by friends… Some of my steadiest selling titles are books that customers recommended,” said Beach.

Nearly every genre is represented in this little bookshop, from poetry to political science. Young readers will enjoy the children’s section in the back. The bookshop features the latest best sellers, classics of every genre, and a Spanish section (staff recommendations are handwritten on oak tags). And the Astoria Bookshop is dedicated to supporting Queens-based writers. It has a special “Queens and NYC” section. So, you’ll be able to read some of the best local literature when you visit.

The Astoria Bookshop hosts many other great events, including children’s story time, adult and teen book clubs, book parties, and author talks. Keep an eye on their calendar for upcoming events. And while you are there, browse the website! From staff picks and audiobooks to greeting cards and more, the Astoria Bookshop is a definite online destination. 

If you visited them in the past, take note they recently moved from their original space on 31st Street to a gorgeous new space right around the corner from the 36th Avenue N/W train). It’s about 40% bigger, and it has a back patio!

They are open from 11 am to 7 pm Monday through Saturday. If you have a question, drop them a line at info@astoriabookshop.com  or call them at (718) 278-2665. And, of course, follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for events and deals! Most of all, we encourage you to support this local bookseller that provides adventures and knowledge abounding throughout the pages of books. The Astoria Bookshop also support the local economy and the livelihood of our neighbors. So, why not take the afternoon off and treat yourself to a stroll along the aisles of stories waiting to be told - at the Astoria Bookstore. And when you get there, be sure to tell them that Broadway Stages sent you.  Happy reading! 

Spotlight | Queens Proud - Queens Botanical Gardens

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Broadway Stages. In celebration of our 40th trip around the sun, we are shining the spotlight on the heart of our community – the local businesses that provide the essential or simply enjoyable goods and services that allow us to thrive and delight in this great city we call home. We continue our series in the borough where it all began, Queens, and feature the local establishments that line our streets, providing our neighbors, family, and friends a livelihood. Join us on our journey and get to know the people and businesses that make our community home. Today, we enjoy the splendor of nature at the Queens Botanical Gardens!

The Queens Botanical Garden (QBG) is an urban oasis celebrating people, plants, and cultures. Inspiring gardens, innovative educational programs, and real-world applications of environmental stewardship make this spot shine bright in a city of diamonds.

Located at the northeast corner of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in Flushing, QBG evolved from the five-acre “Gardens on Parade” exhibit showcased at the 1939-1940 New York World’s Fair.  Today QBG is a 39-acre sanctuary in one of New York City’s most bustling and diverse neighborhoods.

There is something for everyone at QBG.  In addition to browsing the flora, you can get your hands dirty by helping out as a volunteer, bring the kids for a movie, or enjoy story time and crafts. The calendar is always full with fun things to do.

If education is more your thing, their educational workshops and tours guide participants of all ages through inspiring gardens and real-world applications of environmental stewardship. Click HERE for more information or to fill out an online request form to attend a group tour, program or tour.

Summer is a great time to get kids active with hands-on learning and for teachers to load up their toolboxes with resources. The QBG has plenty for both. Their Kids Programs bring together youngsters from around New York City to enjoy seasonal, hands-on learning and gardening experience. And their Teacher Professional Learning programs are aligned with the New York State Learning Standards. Programs are aimed at helping equip teachers with the skills and content to enliven their classrooms and engage their students in science learning. QBG’s Teacher Professional Learning Program is an approved CTLE sponsor.

And we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that this space is the ideal backdrop for any occasion! Their 39 acres and indoor facilities offer a one-of-a-kind location for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and photos. Click HERE if you are interested!

You can support the QBG by becoming a member or making a donation. Also, be sure to follow them on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and even YouTube for upcoming events and fantastic photography!

The QBG’s summer hours (through October) are 8am to 6pm, Tuesday through Sunday. Plan your visit today, and be sure to tell them that Broadway Stages sent you!