“Calling all science geeks, nature freaks, and other rogue geniuses!” The 3rd annual Carnivorous Nights taxidermy contest is back and Union Hall’s Secret Science Club is looking for award winning entrants. Three years ago, owners of Floyd Bar, Andrew Templar and Jim Carden, entered a Rump Ape into a taxidermy contest that was held along side a book signing for “Carniverous Nights: On the Trail of the Tasmanian Tiger” by Margaret Mittelbach and Michael Crewdson. The four enjoyed themselves so much they decided to continue the creature contest with an annual event. The years since have seen many a curiosity, including an Australian sloth, hairy fish and last year’s winner, a Merrabit – part mermaid part rabbit. “What is fascinating are the stories the specimen comes with,” muses Templar. “Whether it was a wedding gift, card game prize, or wherever they happen to discover them.” Dig out your most unique stuffed friend this Day of the Dead, November 2nd, and see if you can’t scare up a little attention!

Catch a look at the competition at www.carniverousnights.com

703 Union Street, Park Slope, 11215

Stickball is a true metro game. Manhole covers serve as bases, if the ball hits a roof then it’s a home run, and equipment consists of a whittled-down broom handle for a bat and a rubber ball. City kids and adults have been playing since the 1930’s. The New York Emperors Stickball League, which fittingly operates on Stickball Boulevard in the Bronx, is widely regarded as the most popular organization dedicated to the sport. But that doesn’t mean pick up games aren’t played in neighborhoods daily. “We’re competitive, but it’s a family atmosphere. We hang out and barbecue after games,” says Rich Marrero, who has been playing with the Emperors League for 20 years. Marrero watched his father play stickball growing up, and now hopes to inspire future players. “We try to be role models to the younger generation,” he says. “I grew up in the projects. The older players showed me that you have to do the right thing, stay in school and that the bad life wasn’t the right life. Just because you’re born in the inner city doesn’t mean you can’t get out of it.”

Stickball Boulevardruns between Lafayette and Randall Avenues in the Bronx www.stickball.com

Running around and knocking things over…indoors? These antics are encouraged at Bowlmor Lanes, the 42-lane downtown bowling alley with a candy-store vibe. Bright, primary colors are everywhere from the ceiling lights to the counter stools, and the music is great for a victory dance after that first strike. “[Bowling] is a good way to have a little competition, have a little fun, and know your kids are safe,” said Lindsay Carlton, Events and Public Relations Assistant at Bowlmor. Kids are welcome from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

110 University Place between 12th and 13th Streets, Manhattan
www.bowlmor.com

Take a dip into Astoria Pool and beat the heat all summer long. This Olympic-sized swimming pool was built to hold 3000 of your closest friends, and is accompanied by a diving pool and a wading pool for the wee ones.

Originally opened in 1936, Astoria was the model for 11 other swimming facilities in New York City. It’s the only one with a clear view of the Triborough Bridge, and boasts views of the Manhattan skyline. The best part of all? Entrance to the pool is free. But, make sure you bring a combination lock with you to secure your stuff. You’re not allowed into the pool without one, and you probably wouldn’t want anyone messing with your stuff while you’re splashing around anyway.

19th Street and 23rd Drive, 11105

Get behind the 8-ball and feel damn good about it at Amsterdam Billiards Union Square. A true playground for pool sharks, the 10,000-square-foot space houses 26 pool tables and sophisticated décor that includes original oil paintings, oriental rugs and plasma TVs. Between rounds, grab a drink at the 50-foot zinc bar or relax on the leather couches in the lounge. It’s kind of like the grand game room that you would never be able to squeeze into your apartment. “In contrast with bars and restaurants where everyone just eats and drinks and gets bored, [Amsterdam Billiards] is a high-energy night out,” says co-owner Greg Hunt. “It’s a great atmosphere and an easy way to meet other people.” This New York institution resided on the Upper West Side for 17 years before relocating to court the downtown crowd. The hall is open 7 days a week, with a day rate of $5.50-$6.00 an hour, weekday night rate of $7.50-$8.50 an hour, and weekend night rate of $8.00-$9.50 an hour.

110 East 11th Street between 3rd and 4th Avenues
www.amsterdambilliards.com

EXTRA:

More from Amsterdam Billiards co-owner, Greg Hunt…

Greg Hunt, his brother Ethan, and comedian David Brenner created a New York institution in Amsterdam Billiards. CiNYC got extra chatty with Greg about his background, the renovation, and the celebrities who have played a game or two at AB. Check out his extended interview below:

What is your background?
I used to work on Wall Street, but I hated working for corporate America. I had an entrepreneurial bug, and I just wanted to start my own business.

Amsterdam Billiards lived on the Upper West Side for 17 years before moving downtown to 4th Avenue. Why did you choose this location?
In New York nightlife, you’re either downtown or in midtown. Nightlife on the Upper West Side is dying. We really wanted to be downtown.

Amsterdam Billiard’s new home is 10,000 square feet and completely renovated. What else can you tell me about it?
It’s much bigger than the average restaurant or bar. We spent 2 million dollars renovating the space, so it’s gorgeous. There’s wood paneling, there are original oil paintings, oriental rugs, and it’s really gorgeous. We maintain a really casual, friendly, laid-back atmosphere.

What celebs have been spotted holding a cue at Amsterdam Billiards?
Over the last 17 years, we’ve had everyone from Jerry Seinfeld to Eric Clapton, Michael Douglas, Bruce Willis and Demi Moore, JFK Jr., Rick Moranis, Derek Jeter, Roger Clemens… We’ve become a New York institution over the last 17 years, and we want to build on that.