New York Archives - Page 6 of 7

Snow Day!

December 27, 2010 RH

Wow, thought I’d get out and take some snappies of the snow this morning. I couldn’t walk more than half as block as nothing is shoveled or plowed yet. These are images of Verona Place and Macon Street. Fulton is a-ok.

Most importantly, check out my car! I didn’t have to clear it. The wind blew the right way. I know, I know…I’ll be plowed in later.

We couldn’t even open the door to the back yard and the dogs didn’t want to go out on our tiny path in the front. Hubby had to climb down from the second floor window to shovel an area in the back for the finicky pups. Little bitches.

Goodbye, Dream Home

December 14, 2010 RH 2 Comments

In a few hours we’ll be closing on the sale of our Beacon house. Don’t get me wrong, I’m elated that I’ll have one less headache. You know the saying “The more you own, the more it owns you”. We’ll take weekends off instead of working on the house and we’ll buy toys for ourselves because we won’t be paying two mortgages. It’s all good!

I can’t help but feel a bit melancholic though. This was our dream house and it took us a long while to arrive at a place where we were able to afford our perfect house. We thought we would stay forever. We stayed for six years.

So, goodbye huge backyard. Goodbye spectacular antique woodwork. And stained glass. And awesome wrap around porch. So long, pocket doors. Turret.

It’s not you that we’re leaving, House. Don’t feel bad. As of today, you’ll get a fresh blast of love from someone new. If we could transplant you to Brooklyn, we would. But alas, it isn’t to be. We needed to be back in the city at this time.

We are fortunate enough to be living in another architectural dream of ours: The Brownstone.

But between you and I, House, Queen Anne Victorian trumps narrow brownstone living any day of the week.

I’ll miss you! 🙁

PS: I’m keeping the logo.

Fairytale of NY by Christy Moore

December 7, 2010 RH

NYC Holiday Events

December 6, 2010 RH

When I was growing up in this fine city my mom used to take me to see two things every year for the holidays. We always went up 5th Avenue to see the storefronts. From Macy’s to Saks, stopping for lunch and hot chocolate along the way. I loved it when I was a kid, but I’ve never done it since (unless I happened to be shopping).

1. Dyker Heights lights. This was the second thing I’d do with both parents. Although I remember going to Canarsie too. I HAVE been back to DH as an adult and it’s just as much fun as I remember it. These folks are not to be outdone, but you can also catch some nice Christmas decorations in neighboring Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst and also Carroll Gardens. Yeah, basically any Italian neighborhood.

2. Yerba Buena in the East Village is serving Mexican Hanukka dinners. Sounds interesting! It ends on Wednesday so hurry up if you want some of those spicy latkes!

3. Ice Skating. Since childhood, the only times I’ve ever been ice skating again were on Christmas Day. But ’tis the season for thermals and falling on your ass for fun. Of course, my own rink preference is Prospect Park in Brooklyn because there are less tourists (and it’s local). Manhattan has it’s fair share of rinks including Central Park, Bryant Park and the most famous, Rockerfeller Center.

4. Dinner and Chinese. Celebrate like a Jew! I don’t know if this is a universal thing or it’s just unique to NY (because we luvs our Chinese food here) but Christmas Day is the day the tribe goes out for Chinese and a movie. Historically, it was because those were the only things open. Now it’s just a tradition as NY doesn’t really shut down.

5. Latkes and Applesauce. A Hanukka show at the Merkin Concert Hall. I just grabbed it off the internet, so don’t shoot the messenger if it sucks.

6.Kwanzaa Celebration. Forces of Nature dance troupe at Harlem’s Apollo Theater. Again, never been.

7. Dog Caroling. Bark! The Herald Angels Sing takes place in Prospect Park every year. Organized by Fido, an off-leash community, it’s a chance for humans to embarrass themselves while their dogs get treats. December 11th from 8-10am in the Long Meadow but dogs must be on leash by 9am. Bring your dog and a video camera.

8. Grand Central. It’s one of those places I never plan to go, but if I find myself there, I’m always impressed by it’s awesomeness. Apart from the shops and architecture being cool any time of year, the holiday season at GC brings us two things…a great craft show (no freezing your ass off at Union Square) and a spectacular light show.

9. Met Museum. If the gigantic tree and crowds at Rock Center aren’t your thing, there’s a calming holiday experience to be had at The Met. The Christmas tree at The Met is, dare I say, “just lovely”. There are lighting ceremonies for the rest of the month and separate choir concerts.

10. Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Yeah, I dunno. I think my mom brought me one of those years we marched up 5th Avenue. I guess it’s something to see once in your life.

Ride Vintage NYC Trains & Buses

November 30, 2010 RH

During the holiday season, the MTA runs vintage subway and buses along certain routes at scheduled times. The cost is the same as any other ride. It just might not get you all the way to your destination. Click on the link to see schedule.The wicker seat trains stopped running in 1969. I am so old that I actually remember riding these a couple of time. I would have been 4 years old. They didn’t come often, but it was a treat when I got one. The lack of air conditioning was always fun. People sweating into the grooves of the seats. Ah, but they had overhead fans! And it was 35 cents for a token. Remember those little coin thingies they had before Metro Cards? Surely, you’re not THAT much younger than me!

If you’ve never been, the NY Transit Museum is one of the coolest places in Brooklyn. You can view these vintage trains and buses any time of the year.

Rant Van in Brooklyn

November 2, 2010 RH

So, I was driving down 9th Street near Smith and I see this “Rant Van” in front of me. Curious little thing that I am, I googled them when I got home and sho’nuff, Rant Van is exactly as the name suggests.

The venting service is the brainchild of Mad Props Productions. I don’t know if they drive around and people flag them down like a taxi or if they park somewhere. This is the first I’ve seen of them and the video archives only go back to October.

Awesome idea, no?

Vanishing Catskills

October 29, 2010 RH 2 Comments

A friend turned me on to this fabulous Vanishing Catskills site. Visual artist Raymon Elozua photographed the abandoned bungalow colonies and hotels around Sullivan and Ulster Counties. The site is easily navigated by type of structure or map.

From the site: “The desire for a new improved lifestyle, assimilation into the American melting pot, and the aging of an older immigrant population were underlying factors coupled with a time when air travel became cheaper and newer chic resorts and communities were springing up elsewhere spelled the end of the Catskills by the 70’s.”

That’s when my family started going there. From the mid 70’s to early 80’s, my parents rented a bungalow in a colony where all the other cousins stayed. The destinations changed every few years…there was Greenview in Spring Glen, Jan’s in Ellenville and Rosenblum’s in Spring Glen from what I recall. Some of the places (like Greenview) had already started to decay. But we had fun anyway.

My fascination with abandoned dwellings coupled with my history in the area has put Vanishing Catskills near the top of my obsession list this week. And the memories these photos triggered! OMG, I recognize that Homowack bowling alley! OMG, I helped my Grandma cook in kitchens exactly like that! (And see that pink and white chair? I have that set in yucky brown!)

Too bad my Grandma is rolling over in her grave whenever she sees me “cook” now.

Catskills Past

Borscht Belt. Then and Now

How Not To Get Mugged In NYC

October 6, 2010 RH 6 Comments

You would think staying safe in NYC would just take a bit of common sense, but apparently it’s not all that obvious to everyone. Now that it’s still dark when I walk to the gym in the morning, I’m more aware of people just asking to be mugged. And no, they ain’t all Mid Western hipsters either (They are not out that early).

Of course this calls for a list.

1. TAKE OFF THE F*CKIN HEADPHONES! WTF? Do I even have to explain why? Also, may I go off topic a little? I don’t care if it’s broad daylight and there are a thousand people on the street. I’ve seen so many people nearly get hit by cars because they aren’t paying attention. I don’t even wear headphones on the subway. I like to be part of the world I live in.

2. The Friggin iPhones and Blackberries. Walking down the street texting. That’s a good way to get your phone stolen. It’s also a good way to get your ass kicked and don’t be surprised if I’m the one doing it.

3. Ladies: Mind your purses! The best bag is something that closes completely and can be slung over your neck and shoulder diagonally. Never carry it on your back and always hang on to it. Oh, and do you know how many times I’ve seen women leave their purses in their shopping carts at the supermarket while picking vegetable? Are you f*ckin insane? You deserve to be ripped off!

4. Guys. The wallets and phones. Back pockets are a no-no. Back packs? No good. Listen, I’ve been guilty of carrying my phone in my back pocket, but only when I’m going around the corner. Never in a busy area.

5. Have your keys ready. It’s late at night. You’re getting off the train and there is (seemingly) no one else around. You’re not wearing headphones, right??? Good. Have your keys in hand ready to put in the door. People get mugged right in front of their own homes while fumbling for keys. I like to carry mine between my fingers so I can jab someone in the eye if need be. Won’t do anything against a gun, but it makes me feel safer.

6. Pay attention. You have to have eyes in the back of your head. Seriously, listen for footsteps and look for shadows. Walk on the bright side of the street or even in the middle if you have to. Of course I’m talking about you being the only one on the street at 4am, not lunchtime in midtown.

7. Trains and buses. Back in the old days when I actually DID stay out until 4am and the city was rough, I had to take the train back to Coney Island. It was second to last stop and by the time I got home, there was usually me and one other drunk in the car. One night, after a guy came over and started jerking off in my face, I decided I had had enough. After that incident, I always got off at Kings Highway where the train was still crowded and took the bus to Coney. It let me off in front of my building and the bus driver was there to protect me. These days I just take a cab home if I’m out late. It’s more out of convenience than safety. Point is: Mass transit is safer than walking and if you’re the only one on a train, at least stay in the conductor’s car.

8. They smell fear. I dunno. I just made that up. I try to look tough, which is pretty funny since I’m 4’11”. Maybe it works. Never been mugged. (Knock wood!!)

Added bonus for your car…

Hel-lo! Do not leave anything of value in there! Yeah, people do that, believe it or not.

Oh Diane!

September 24, 2010 RH

Free NYC: Governors Island

September 20, 2010 RH

Governors Island opened to the public in the early oughts while I was living upstate. I finally got a chance to visit over the weekend as there was an art fair I wanted to see.

The island, considered part of the borough of Manhattan, was referred to as Pagganck (“Nut Island”) by Native Americans. The Brits and Dutch each had control at one time or another. Starting with the Revolutionary War, Governors Island served as an American military base through just about every war until it switched over to the Coast Guard in the 1960’s.

So, who owns it now? Why, we do! In 2003 the federal government sold 150 acres of Governors Island to the people of New York, with the Island’s governance and funding jointly shared by the City of New York and State of New York. The remaining 22 acres was declared the Governors Island National Monument that is overseen by the National Park Service.

Enough history. What is there to do on Governors Island? Well, there’s a little somethin’ somethin’ for everyone. BTW, the art exhibit was excellent. Five four story buildings filled with some exceptional work.

I was impressed by the recycling effort on the island. Plenty o’ bins for trash AND recyclables which you don’t normally see enough in city parks. But not only that…some of the garden sculptures made from reclaimed materials are truly impressive.

You know what the leaves on this tree are made of? Joint compound lids!

Kiddie park built from pallets, reclaimed house materials and more! Mini-golf! Trampoline school! A beach! Historic house tours!

The ferry takes 5 minutes and it’s free. Word of advice. If you visit Governors Island, wear comfortable shoes. Lots of people bike around the island. Bikes are allowed on the ferry or you can rent one. There are also trams for less mobile folk. Enjoy!

What’s the Story, Jerry?

September 16, 2010 RH

Hey, old school New Yorkers! Remember those 1970’s commercials “What’s the story, Jerry?” They were for Jamaica Gas & Electric, aka JGE. Couldn’t find an original, but did come across this….

9/11 Budweiser Ad. Grab a Tissue.

September 10, 2010 RH 2 Comments

This Budweiser commercial aired only one time on the first anniversary of September 11th. Bud did this so they wouldn’t benefit financially from the event. It’s really touching.

Now if only their beer didn’t taste like piss water.

Commentary on Local News Stuff

August 24, 2010 RH 8 Comments

Consider this sort of a linkorama with a sprinkling of snarky comments from the editor. Lots going on lately and I’m sharing my opinion whether you like it or not.

The Empire State Building sharing the skyline? Hmm, I can see both sides. Surely, this building IS the NYC skyline. Of course we want it to remain #1, especially since we lost #2 a few years back. The other point of view is that the skyline is constantly changing, so deal. Well, this is true too! Here’s my thinking….The ESB is an historic landmark. There are many landmarked districts in Manhattan. Why shouldn’t this building fit in with this historic neighborhood? So, build a tower that compliments the Empire State Building. No, that piece of shit in the photo doesn’t cut it. Back to work.

So, the Ground Zero mosque. 1. It is not located AT Ground Zero. The site was a Burlington Coat Factory a few blocks away. 2. It is not a big fat mosque but rather a community center with a prayer room. 3. There are already mosques in the neighborhood, at least one that predates the towers. 4. Would you prefer a Victoria’s Secret? Really? 5. If you answered yes to #4, let’s just agree to disagree because you probably have some racist tendencies.

Habana Outpost is sooo green. Oh, really? Just your buildings but not your food? Too bad there’s not much on your menu for a vegetarian to eat. Never been, because the menu is so meaty. That’s fine, but I don’t really equate dead animals with environmentalism. I’ll assume the meat is organic free range, but I don’t see where it says that. You’re doing a good thing for the community, so thumbs up on that.

Ok, I vented. Feeling better now.

iPhone Snappies: Intrepid at Night

August 17, 2010 RH 2 Comments

What Ever Happened To…?

July 30, 2010 RH 1 Comment

Remember Rene I Am The Best Artist? His stuff was all over Soho. I used to be all like “What a pompous ass!” Where is he now? According to his website, it looks like he may have died in 2003, but the whole thing is tongue in cheek, so I think that could be false.

Before it was hip to be green, Mr. Purple was a green hipster. The vegetarian squatter freegan who lived without electricity on the Lower East Side was seen riding his bike everywhere back in the day. He lost his Garden of Eden to bulldozers back in 1986 and became homeless after his tenement building gave way to gentrification. Where is he now? Closest thing I could find was this 2007 blog post.

reclaimedhome.com

Posts tagged New York