The Talk of New York!

New! - Walk the High Line to the Artists of Chelsea

2012-02-19T14:37:00.010-05:00

This early spring, late winter, will be a great time for art in New York. On March 8 to 11 The Armory Art Show, with more than 120 galleries from around the world displaying modern and contemporary art at Piers 92 and 94 at 12th Avenue and 55th Street, will be in action. Please check the website for all details - for there are some significant innovations in this year's show, such as their "inaugural edition of Armory Film, curated by the Moving Image Fair, and Solo Projects, a section dedicated to single artist presentations, and the Media Lounge, where on-site programs including Armory Film, Open Forum - the lively talk series - and Armory Performance will take place." It's quite a show - look at their website before going!

As you can see by the picture, artists do tend to start young, and this one is in his mother's studio in a great building on W. 21st Street, where many artists work on a daily basis. It may be many years before his work will be at the Armory show, but virtually every artist in the building has an opportunity. And, on February 25 (see below!) The Street Teacher shall be leading a tour from 14th St. and 9th Avenue up the High Line to these studios and galleries as well, getting you a head start on the season.

But for us in February, and virtually every day of the year in fact, there are artists in Chelsea, working every day on new art. In fact, this is one of the most important and influential art districts in the world, with hundreds of galleries - and for us one great building with many working artists.

Meet artists at work in their studios and talk with them about their processes of creation. Ask them what inspires them, and become acquainted with creators of contemporary art. Why, you might even imagine commissioning a work of art for your - home!

The High Line Art Walk

Date: Saturday February 25, 2012
Time: 11:ooam
Meeting Place: W. 14th St. and 9th Avenue, outside The Diner
Length of Tour: 2 to 3 hours
Price: $20 cash, or $20.75 credit card.
Please register by e-mail at Bill@TheStreetTeacher.com

We will start promptly at 11:00. Please try your best. If you find yourself running late, please call 917-921-9273 to let us know, and we'll tell you where to meet us. But please remember: we begin our walk at 11:00am.

Winter is for Walking!

2012-01-29T13:01:00.006-05:00

I have been away from my blog for some time now, and I apologize to my followers for leaving them adrift - in the sea of holiday shopping, of family feasting, and now - January fasting! We shall get together again.

But, now, on the subject of food, feasting and fasting, have you noticed that Fairway is now on E. 86th St., between 2nd and 3rd Avenues, on the south side of the street? So, now you can get all kinds of olive oil - and taste each one on a piece of Fairway baguette that they have prepared for you (free lunch?). It's altogether a surfeit of food to be sure - but beware the mothers with their strollers! Traffic jam! Never was a place so demanding of one's patience and stamina for politeness!

But, as I did, you may be able to walk home by one wonderful echo of Yorkville's German past.

This is the Zion-St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church, on E. 84th Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues - in the evening. Constructed in 1888, by a certain J. F. Mahoney. The church did have financial problems in its first decades, but while originally one congregation - the Deutche Evangelical Kirsche von Yorkville - it joined with the Zion-St. Marks congregations from the Lower East Side's Kleinedeutschland after the terrible event of June 15, 1904: the loss of 1000 women and children in the sinking of the General Slocum at Hell's Gate.

There's more to learn, and this may be a part of one of my Spring Slow Walks, which I shall be detailing soon in my newsletter (The Street Teacher Bulletin - let me know if you'd like to be on that list! Send me a note!).

A New Year, New MacBook! New iPhone!

No, I'm not bragging! Not at all. But, well, my equipment was getting old ... and the iCloud is coming - but I also broke my display on my older MacBook when it fell out of my bag after being checked at the courthouse downtown when I was doing my jury duty. So, now, new.

And there's new stuff to learn! But, I may have more and better pictures (see above - what do you think?) to come.

RESCHEDULED WALK!

2011-11-26T10:09:00.005-05:00

Walk the Speedway!

Our Next Public Tour has been rescheduled for Sunday, December 11, 2011. We will meet at the end of the # 3 subway line, at 148th St. and 7th Avenue at 10:30am, and walk along the Harlem River and enjoy the fruits of the NYRP, and the development of what Mayor Bloomberg has called the "Sixth Borough:" the waterfronts of New York City.

During our walk (about 4 miles) we will remember the stories of other walkers who would make this path part of their constitutional.

We will end at the Indian Road Cafe where we can enjoy brunch or lunch (at your expense). We will be near the No. 1 subway, and a short walk from the A train at 207th St. The walk should take about 2 to 3 hours, and lunch may extend our time together.

PLEASE! You must register by e-mail: Bill@TheStreetTeacher.com and please include your cell phone number.

Cost: $20 cash, or $20.75 by credit card (or PayPal)

Meeting Time: 10:30am Place: 148 & 7th Ave.

Please note! We will wait only 15 minutes, so please call (917-921-9273) if you expect to be late!

A Long Hot Summer in the City ....

2011-08-10T17:03:00.011-04:00

Yes, yes, it's been a while! I have been busy leading visitors here and there, over yonder and just around the corner - all kinds of places, for a great variety of people. But there were scenes that couldn't be missed ... like the sunset on July 4, over the heads of people anxiously awaiting fireworks, and our glorious Hudson River:

Yes, it truly was a harbinger of a glorious fireworks - which I couldn't get a decent shot of, alas! - but also of a warm and bustling summer in New York.

In fact, there were a lot of happy people coming to New York, and celebrating just for the heck of it!

Stephanie Kyle and Michael Squillante
at the White Horse on Hudson Street @ W. 11th Street

Yes, sometimes when I introduce visitors to my great city they can find on their own reasons to be happy in New York. After all, what's not to like?! After all, Mr. Softee serves chocolate ice cream!

Although I have to tell you that sometimes Mr. Softee can be hard to find - especially if you're returning to the city after a hot day in the country. But, maybe we should stay in town?

See? Bikinis in Washington Square Park - cooling off on a hot summer's day. In fact, just to the left is another wonderful spot:

Yes! Right there in Washington Square children are splashing around, and getting really cooled off. And believe me, the temperatures were in the 90s for almost weeks straight, in July.

But what's great about this park, and this fountain, is that it's simply a continuation, and in a great way an improvement of an existing structure and plan. Established on July 4, 1826 by then Mayor Philip Hone, on the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence (and the very day that both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died!), Washington Square has been the center for many occasions - although now it's most known as the informal campus of the nation's largest private university, New York University.

But it's the summer, and few people are thinking about school!

We have to walk our dogs, make sure they're fed and watered - and if we train (and love) them well enough, maybe it's true; they will be among your best friends.

After all, with dogs, you can be the leader of their pack - but only if you get their respect. Love them!

And if you go to Broadway this summer, perhaps you will drop by Ellen's Stardust Diner - for a bite to eat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner - but also to hear Broadway performers like this young lady break into song right after serving you!

This is, as Mayor Lindsay used to say - although it seem a little forced back then, it's not now: New York is Fun City!

The High Line - and Other News

2011-06-15T10:03:00.012-04:00

Good day! It's June 15 and time to record what's up with this town. After all, one week ago today the second part of the High Line (and believe me when I admit that I almost wrote "the second half" of the High Line!) opened. And a very curious interval it is.

Not quite as breathtaking as the first part, I must aver, but still a compelling addition to a revolutionary beginning.

First, this rainy warm spring has created a virtual bath of luxurious green up there - and what are these conical flowers? A friend of mine recently asked what they were doing there - "aren't they native to South Africa?" I don't know, although there is a list - the June Blooming List - that can tell any curious flower lover all the names, in Latin and English, of all that's blooming.

I was walking there on Sunday (after spotting David Byrne riding his bike down Ninth Avenue - helmetless! - but with a smile and sitting comfortably behind his basket) with a couple of visitors from London, England. I had to point out flowers to the English!

But there are also the birds. And here, as my visitor saw, were some interesting contraptions - bird feeders, they were. In fact, you can spot a small golden chunk of - sweet potatoe? Very curious!

Some, as we saw, were content to ruminate on other things, and rest upon the benches so gently placed at the edge of a wonderfully green and soft-looking lawn. The lawn was off limits that day, however. As I learned later, it was closed off to walkers (and liers, rollers and somersaulters) for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday because of its wetness. The High Liners are most anxious that their new lawn gets the rest it needs to weather the enjoyment of thousands the rest of the summer long. Very thoughtful, don't you think?

The High Line was quite popular Sunday, too. Everyone wanted to see what would be the nature of the extension to what had become in its first two years perhaps the most popular park in the City (after Central Park, I would suggest - but it would be close in a certain demographic).

A lot of people!

But the High Line on this stage of its progress has an interesting feature: the Flyover. Check it out:

After walking onto it, I looked back, and down - and it almost seemed as if I were walking over the "original" High Line - when it was abandoned, and the tracks were barely visible through the grass ("weeds"?), and small trees were surviving above all the city grime. But, now, we were above that. Very nice touch. Worth spending time just contemplating change and adaptation ... and many other things, perhaps - but when it's less crowded!

We did reach the end, and did talk to some New Yorkers (down from their high-rises for a walk, no doubt), but the very end isn't quite what it will be. The Related Companies have a grand project for Hudson Yards (as the tracks are called), which will become visible within the next two or three years.

But perhaps the potentially most memorable moment wasn't ours after all, but to see it was charming nonetheless:

You can't make it out? Let's make it a little easier:

I hope she said yes!

The Last Night at Elaine's

2011-05-30T17:02:00.013-04:00

You'll never believe it, but this was also my first night at Elaine's. Perhaps - well, perhaps any number of things. Maybe it was something like what Graydon Carter said about the likelihood of his taking over to continue the tradition:

"If you live downtown, 89th and 2nd Avenue is really a serious hike, and ultimately, that was the deciding factor." Although he did say that he just felt no one could fill Elaine's shoes.

But, then, what did I feel about the place - for the hour I was allowed to stand at the bar before they rotated us out? First of all, it was a beautiful night, and I had just finished performing a wedding at the Ladis's Pavilion in Central Park in front of 25 people from England, and had walked all across town to meet Alison and Bonnie at Elaine's - it was for me a very nice evening,

and why not have a drink? And we were virtually the first in line.

The bartenders weren't exactly cheerful, but they were there and able to serve us relatively quickly. But, they did seem, how you say: as if all this attention, while welcome for the night, as a bartender would always feel, was on this occasion a bit too patronizing to really be appreciated. Go figure!

We met some new people - and everyone was new since we'd never been there before! Everyone was taking pictures. One new friend, who had been a customer within the past five or six years, but who had perhaps not seen Elaine's in its hay day, was very helpful.

Bonnie is helped by Philip with her camera - and a new friend is made.

The drinks were good, and the one bartender whose name I got - Alex - was humorous in a wry sort of way as he went about his last night at Elaine's bar.

And me? Oh, I was happy enough - it's really spring now, and the rains seem to have left us, and so has the chill of that ridiculous April we had this year!

So, what more is in the offing? I will be more up to date - but on the 11th of June I am planning for another walk - but a walk through the Nature Center of Tenafly, New Jersey - to which we'll bus it! Fun for bird lovers - and general nature walkers too.

See you soon!

Spring Days are Here - Let's Walk!

2011-04-04T08:56:00.010-04:00

I can't emphasize this enough: when the weather's good, we in the Northeast feel a peculiar anxiety to make the most of it. I realized this years ago when I visited a friend at Stanford University, in Palo Alto, California, during August and discovered that when every day is beautiful a most calming feeling began to surface. I didn't feel that rush to go out because the sun was shining ... because it would be shining tomorrow, and the day after. No worries. Not like back home!

So, this past weekend was a great weather weekend, and, since I am indeed in the Northeast, I took full advantage of it!

I called my friend Philippe(walking on the left, in the picture at right), and we were out early to walk the George Washington Bridge to Tenafly on a sort of Spring '11 Test Walk, a preview of the "Real" walk on April 16 (see my Public Tours).

The weather was magnificent, and the temperature did achieve the mid fifties I believe, but the trees still are wanting their buds of green. I hope and trust that in two weeks green shoots will be leaping out all over! We looked down on the northern reaches of Riverside Park below:

The greenest green isn't grass, which is at the bottom of the picture; it's the tennis courts. The railroad track is to the left, and our North River (the Hudson to most of you!) is of course to the right.

But look again: where's the city? Miles away! We're leaving that metropolis for - ew, the suburbs??! Not so fast!

Yes, off to our left is the sheer rock of the Palisades, right below the site of the old original Fort Lee. Note the road cut into the cliff: the Henry Hudson Drive, which goes all the way up to the Alpine Boat Basin - but that's for another time!

We continued on, and eventually left all the noise of traffic and the hardness of the pavement. We entered ....

- the woods! Sure, it was brown, but it was wonderfully relaxing to stroll through the trees.

We noticed, however, that there seemed to be a lot of fallen brush and branches, even trees, that testified to a rather rough season just gone by. It didn't look quite to rough last October. Hmm. But it was cleared enough for us to walk very pleasurably on the path.

This experience finally reminded me of my boyhood wanderings, and comforted me in the way that familiar things often do. As if I had discovered an old book that I had loved as a kid, or remember a time when a friend and I had explored the woods behind my house and discovered hidden caves in rocky hillsides, or just walked on comfortable with not having any destination, yet confident that we would find our way.

And so, Philippe and I walked along the Palisades.

We looked out, toward the Bridge from the railing in Allison Park. And, it's true, we were almost out of our woods interlude. But, the wonder of it all!

Philippe had always wanted to see what was in Englewood, and what kind of homes were there. So, we did see some ... and this one wasn't the largest:

Can you imagine whose this was? Nope! Not telling! Either you walk with me on the 16th, or at least you ask me via the comment section! I'm getting tough now ... so, any takers?

We walked on, and Philippe was beginning to miss the nature that we experienced, and that we both loved, on the trails along the Palisades. But, we were not completely out of nature:

Here are two of the four deer we saw ambling across a lawn in the "suburbs." And, before we even completely left the Palisades we saw more than two geese - we saw two wild turkeys! So, nature is alive in the New York Metropolitan Area - walk with me on the 16th of April and see it all as it begins to bloom!

Believe Me: Spring is Coming!

2011-03-02T09:38:00.003-05:00

Yes, I'm telling you that it is definitely going to be here just as Punxsutawney Phil said it'd be: earlier rather than later. So, what should we begin to do immediately? Get back into shape!

We're walkers, right? So, let's make sure our shoes still fit, and that our socks are clean and whole (and not hole-y), but more than that, let's begin to make a new habit of walking to anywhere that's less than ten blocks from us.

What's 10 blocks? Figure about a half mile. "Oh, I can't do that!" Sure you can!

After all, I plan on taking many of you (!) on a nice longish walk in the middle of April, only 6 weeks away, and I wouldn't want you to be unprepared. In fact, although we're really not going to be doing any real serious hiking, I should let you know that the Appalachian Mountain Club has published just today an article entitled Get Coordinated Before You Hike - and I think it has a lot of reasonable pointers for you. Check it out!

After all, you do want to hike with me here, right? Want to know where - make a comment below! I'll be telling you soon!

Still Another Public Tour!

2011-02-19T21:52:00.005-05:00

Sunday, February 27 -Walk the Upper East Side- Let's explore the "homescape" of those who were successful in making New York the city we know today. After all, our mayor Mr. Bloomberg is another February birthday, and lives happily near Central Park. We'll explore the Gold Coast, from E. 70th Street on up to Carnegie Hill - and learn just how close Tricia Nixon is to San Francisco rock music! (And consider this picture: what is there now?)

Meeting Spot:5th Avenue & 70th Street: the memorial for Richard Morris Hunt on the Central Park Side of 5th Avenue at 11:00 am. Cost: $20 per person.

Please contact The Street Teacher by e-mail to register and confirm. Rain or Shine - but leave a phone number in case of emergency!

A PUBLIC TOUR

2011-02-17T12:16:00.006-05:00

Sunday, February 20 - Abraham Lincoln's East Village, and More - Let us continue our Presidential Month by beginning our walk through one of the "best neighborhoods

of North America" near the site of Lincoln's famous speech which won him the Republican nomination for President. We will also walk through this great neighborhood and hear stories of its past residents, and wonder of their dreams as newcomers either to New York or the United States - or both!

Meeting Spot, Time and Cost: Astor Place, near the Mud Truck on 4th Avenue and E. 8th Street, next to the uptown #6 Subway at 11:00am: $20 per person.

Should Teachers Have Tenure?

2011-02-01T08:59:00.006-05:00

Good morning! This Month's "Talk of New York" begins with a somewhat unusual piece, perhaps, but I think I should publish it here (I have written it as an on-line commentary on an article regarding teacher tenure in the New York Times on 2/1/11) because I feel it relates to everyone's experience as a walker in the city. We all educate each other, in some way, and I wanted to declare my attitude toward this major issue of the day. Please comment as you wish!

As often as there are under-performing teachers, or even bad teachers, I am struck by the lack of attention to the influence of parents in this complicated process of education. In other words, I believe that the neglected element in this equation is the parents, particularly in the "lower performing" districts.

If education is valued highly by the parents, and if the benefits of education can be demonstrated by the examples of the parents (either by their professional stations or the respect accorded them in their every day activities, preferably both), then that is one great advantage.

But, if the parents have not had the good fortune of education, and by that measure are unable to demonstrate that education works, then that's where the life-long effort to be educated and to improve one's station in life is at least as powerful a lesson to impart on their children as simply the inherited advantage of prior education - perhaps even more.

So, I feel it is a responsibility of a community, and I do mean the elected officials, to be instrumental in the education of those parents - in the improvement of their lives.

Departments of Education shouldn't concern themselves solely with the children of their populations, but with everyone's continuing education.

Just as our society seems rooted in our pursuit of the "American Dream," we should understand that it is largely a fiction created at least in part to keep the large majority of the population striving on a treadmill that only guarantees profits for the owner of that treadmill, and stasis for everyone on it. If that pursuit were to be accorded as prime a place as we all seem to agree it deserves, then other priorities should be recognized in their proper rank.

Such as:
1. Raising children: child development, skill acquisition, the importance of and definition of unqualified love.
2. Making a home safe: children first, parents second, elders third
3. Creating and maintaining self-supporting neighborhoods: economics: raw materials, productivity, profitability and investment in that community
4. Community relations: internal and with neighboring communities
5. Inter-community relations: "foreign trade"

Just those 5 elements seem to me to be the priorities. Teacher tenure? Desirable, even a great idea - but who is the real teacher of the children: the parents, the community, every person with whom that child interacts each day is that child's teacher. Each of those interactions reflects an important element of each child's curriculum: the values of his or her community. A child should be able to sense what his or her family, friends, neighborhood, and greater community holds as desirable - every day. The teachers are really now in an unwarranted and exalted station in their student's value scale: we would hold those teachers up as the ONLY ones responsible for their education, when they are only one element.

Perhaps it's important to realize that of all the teachers our children may have, it is their most important teacher who has lifelong tenure, and who can have either the most positive impact, or a very negative one: their parents.

From the Vigeland Park, Oslo, Norway

We should not "fire" them, of course. But, as with teachers and other professionals, our society should require continuing education of our children's most powerful teachers, their parents, and accord them the respect that implies.

And now! Can you imagine the conversations we ALL would now have - if ALL of us were involved in our continuing education in - developmental psychology! in child development! in disease prevention! in international relations! in reading and communication!

And here's the most important element of our New Curriculum: in listening. Ah, the peace that shall come from ... understanding!

Finally! Some Snow!

2010-12-28T08:53:00.022-05:00

Perhaps it came because it was supposed to. Just in time to lend this Holiday Week a little flare, don't you think?

So, my son and I were gifted by Mom with two tickets to see "A Little Night Music" at the Matinee showing on the day after Christmas. I would meet him there - so what does the Street Teacher do? He walks there.

Here I am walking down the west side of 5th Avenue, passing the Pulitzer Fountain, which features the bronze allegorical figure of Pomona - the goddess of abundance! Ah, Christmas is only partially over.

The snow has yet to begin falling in volume, but it is beginning to shower down.

As I look across the intersection of 57th St. and 5th Avenue toward Tiffany's, I see the dampened street, and can see the flurries of snow beginning to whiten the black truck as it crosses. Yes, the forecast was definite: there will be snow.

I walk on down 5th Avenue, and over at 54th Street - just because, you see - and re-discover the great walkways between the blocks of 5th and 6th that can take me through to 52nd Street! Brilliant! Not everything has to be at right angles - or, at least, at such great lengths between them.

So, I begin my walk down the Alley.

Wow, I thought, looking at the Equitable Building portion (on the right) - this is great in the snow.

I wonder how many people really discover this part of the city? It's like opening gifts sealed with velcro: you can leave them, and "close" them up - and come back and they're still fresh. Look -

Now, I really wonder just why an elephant is here. Perhaps I'll take the time soon to ask someone in "authority" there if there is a reason. Perhaps some of you know already. If so, please write a comment - teach me. I'm open to news of all kinds.

But it is a beautiful creation - and the dancer on his head?

Well, why not?

But, that's not all.

I am getting close to my destination - the Walter Kerr Theatre at 218 West 48th Street - and one of the two theaters named after a critic (Kerr won the Pulitzer Prize; Brooks Atkinson is the other critic with a theater) - so I'm hoping I'm just minutes away.

Yet, before I reach the end of my magical alley, there's a leaping rabbit! Seeming so incongruous, don't you think? Looks as if he is leaping out of a hat. Curiouser and curiouser.

But there it is - the theater.

My son's there somewhere - and in we go to see the show. Which was, by the way, fantastic. After all, when you're in the second row, orchestra, and so close to the stars, the magic of the stage just rises up to your brain and charges all your nerves. And we were seated behind four lovely ladies from Florida who loved the theater: Hope, Patti, Susan, and Ginger. They could have such theatrical last names, don't you think?

I took no photos of the show as I was watching it, of course. Take it from me, since the show closes January 9, you would have a very enjoyable evening or afternoon. (And this may be one of the few shows that will close twice within a year. The first production, starring Catherine Zeta Jones and Angela Lansbury, closed June 20, 2010, but re-opened with Bernadette Peters and Elaine Stritch on July 13.)

By the way, the songs in A Little Night Music were written by Stephen Sondheim (who now also has a theater named after himself). The show's song list is: Overture and Night Waltz, Now - Later - Soon, The Glamorous Life, Remember?, You Must Meet My Wife, Liaisons, In Praise of Women, Every Day a Little Death, A Weekend in the Country, The Sun Won't Set, It Would Have Been Wonderful, Perpetual Anticipation, Send In the Clowns (perhaps the most well known), The Miller's Son, and Finale.

So, after the finale, we left the theater to - snow and wind. Brrr!

Windbown and dazzled by the lights, and left by my son who immediately went off to meet one of his friends, I walk on back homewards.

Radio City glows among the snowflakes on W. 50th Street, and shines over the traffic on 6th Avenue. Something warming about that, I think.

I walk up 6th Avenue a couple of blocks - and I really didn't expect to see one, but here it is: a hot dog vendor.

Would you have thought one would be out in this weather? I didn't go up for a dog, or to see how he was doing, but most of the vendors I've seen lately do their best to cheer you up by with their enthusiastic participation in the whole holiday cheer.

I wonder if the doorman at the Warwick Hotel, right behind him, ever comes over for a little refreshment?

I was able to walk pretty efficiently back that evening, you should know, because, well, there weren't many cars at all - even on 5th Avenue.

But it only made the lights on the Fendi store (the one on the right) so much brighter.

I walked over toward Madison, and in a few blocks I was into the residential neighborhood of the East 60's between Madison and Park Avenues.

The homes on East 64th Street are freshly layered in snow, and the expanse of Park Avenue as I look to the left, northward, is empty of vehicles.

These are the times that make living in the City almost intimate encounters with its essence. Each of us will stage our own encounter as if we would imagine an ancient narrative.

I look down Park Avenue to the south, toward the Waldorf and Grand Central Terminal - invisible in the far snow shadowed distance, but present in my mind nonetheless. But I'm heading north and east, away from that world.

I walk down my street - and when I reach those bright lights, well, I'm home. Time to let all these images settle. Good night!

What To Do for the Holidays? Shop?

2010-12-11T17:16:00.025-05:00

Yes, it's that time again! The "spirit" is being released - in fact you only have to look across the street:
I couldn't catch them all - a whole squadron surged down the street to the right when I took this picture! Santas everywhere!

I was at Union Square, you see, for I wanted to get some idea of the variety of, well - of things and people really, which and who were out and about on this Saturday just two weeks from Christmas.

Egad! Just two weeks! Fourteen days! And I haven't even sent my cards yet!

Oh, you know how it is, you're consumed with your life, your job, your other responsibilities - and wasn't Thanksgiving just a few days ago? Well, yes, but ....

Let's walk into the Holiday Mall .....

The whole neighborhood was thronged (I'm willing to be tagged for that word!) with shoppers and - mallers? - so I was really up against the people of the season. I did see some very intriguing stalls.

Yes, a lot of people just beginning to shop, and a lot of "stuff" that they could buy.

But, what are these squshy animals? Pillows? "Yes, and they're washable too.

Who would have imagined ...

And they (you know, "them," who carry everything and do everything you don't have any control over?) have a lot of these little usables (it has to be a word) that you can't do without. I'm not close enough for you to identify them, but, well, you get the idea.

I walked around trying to get an idea of the variety, but there were so many people, and so many stalls, that I really had to be very gentle and diplomatic - "Excuse me! Thank you very much!" - as I walked so I didn't jostle anyone. Hmm, and it could have been an enterprise for purse snatchers and pick-pockets too, come to think of it. Be careful!

But you had to look - and wonder: who could live without this? More than a conversation piece, but a whole afternoon's cocktail party could, well, just spring from that nice jaunty hat. No?

And of course you'll need gloves and mittens, right?

Yes, perhaps at no place other than a Christmas gift mall can you see the great variety of man's creativity and enterprise. When was the last time, for example, that you saw this:

Yes! Why have a frog at all if it can't "ribbitt"!

And so I walked on. I wondered what else there might be on sale ....

Oh, yes. Can't forget the dog! After all, as I do tell everyone, there's one dog for every four people who live in Manhattan (1.62 million, so more than 400,000 dogs). I do wonder, as I'm sure you do too, just how these dogs feel (they do feel, of course) sitting in these clownish things ... right?

But, excuse me? Hanging Monkeys? Hmm. Maybe from the tree limbs ... from a needle maybe ... and I'll be some people just can't have too many - right?

And yes, there were some more, well, stylish items to wear - for the season!

Actually, they did look quite attractive. Hmm.

But there were some stalls that, well, I thought took liberties with their inspiration, if that's what it was. I mean, would Zapata have a stall at the mall? Really? For handbags?

I saw this one, however, and I knew from my memories of Dr. Zhivago that Russia does indeed have winters. So, I had to see what they had to offer.

Yes, quite colorful dolls and I think I see -

"No take photograph please."

And I was summarily rushed out of there! Who would have imagined! Well! That certainly quashed my voyeuristic Christmas spirit, I will tell you. So, I thought in a huff, I shall walk out.

As I leave, however, what do I see but what you will see in many New York City parks: a chess game! Long live chess!

Thanksgiving!

2010-11-28T08:01:00.013-05:00

This year for me was a little different - I was working out at JFK, dropping off some British travelers for the flight back home, when I was asked by a friend to meet her at the balloon blow-up on Central Park West. Wow - I've not had the chance before, so ... let me see if I could make it.

But the E train wasn't working and I had to walk through the proverbial strange neighborhood at night to get to the F - I could imagine how some could be scared! And, you know what? The city could do better about the signs directing people to such detour locations ... but I'm not here this morning to gripe!

I got to the American Museum of Natural History - and boy! The crowds!

I was lucky I could cross by a short-cut from CPW south of 81st St. - which was jammed with balloons and people. I tried calling my friend to check on where she was - but the call couldn't get through! Everyone was calling everyone else - couldn't get a signal!

But, it was fun, and the three of us met and went to a nice, relatively quiet restaurant on 71st St.: Pasha. Why not Turkish for Thanksgiving, eh?

The evening was certainly cool, but we took to our feet and walked back across the park.

Perhaps you wouldn't want to walk across Central Park at night, but there were three of us, and the lights were bright - and there were others like us walking. It's only half a mile anyway.

I wasn't sure I would be up the next morning early, but I was and there was a message: "I'm going to go watch the parade! You?" Why not!

Yes, yes, that's Ronald McDonald - and boy there were more, and all the marching bands, and all the celebrities and and ... and the people!
Everyone seemed to be out, and especially the grandparents with their grandchildren. But even some who just wanted to see a parade.

I'd be happy to hear from any of my readers - and please submit your comments! - which of all the parades we have in New York is your favorite: Thanksgiving, St. Patrick's, Columbus Day, Steuben Day, or the parade of your choice. And let us all know just what is is about that parade that you like the most.

I think the Thanksgiving Day Parade is my favorite ... because ....

it's for the kids!

But, well, you can also say you like Thanksgiving because it's for the families, right? And it's a time when the whole family - more or less! (And "families" that just seem to form ad hoc!)

It was a nice parade - but it was getting cold so we went in - for we each had places to go people to see!

But, there were more balloons .....

And there were still people there, excited and willing to brave the chill to see the whole thing. Maybe next year!

Let me know how your Thanksgiving Day was - and, did you see the parade?

The Walk to Tenafly - Part Three

2010-11-16T12:41:00.020-05:00

Thank you for your patience! I know there were some of you out there who were thinking ... "What happens next?"

I left you as I encountered the entrance to St. Peter's College, or, rather, their adult division, on Englewood Cliffs, there in the Palisades. Yes, it must have the best view of all the colleges in the Metropolitan Area:

Photo by St. Peters College

Can you imagine if you had been at the Palisades Mountain House? Or living in the Allison home, at this site?

But maybe you can certainly imagine how attractive this area was for those who could afford to live so far from, yet so close to, the city in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. I did, and still do. After all I grew up not three miles from this very spot - but, I was young, had other concerns ... who knew?

So, I will visit St. Peter's soon, and ask those in the know there about their institution. Now, I said to myself, I'm walking on. On up the road - whoosh! More bikers!

And cars. I certainly hoped at this point that my road walking wouldn't last - and indeed, I walked along Hudson Terrace for only 5 minutes (yes, I kept a record! I know how long to each turn on my walk.) before I turned left and walked just about 1 minute to Route 9W, or, and I always thought this name was ironic, Sylvan Boulevard.

At this point I knew I was in Englewood Cliffs. Historically, all Englewood included both Teaneck and Englewood Cliffs, and was originally part of Hackensack, which is now the seat of Bergen County. Without going into all the dates and figures at this time, suffice it to say that although Englewood has less than 30,000 inhabitants (including Eddie Murphy), virtually all of the inhabitants of Englewood Cliffs send their children to private schools; most of the residents of the "East Hill" of Englewood do too. I may talk about schools in another blog ... but now I'm walking!

I turn left at Palisades Avenue (in 4 minutes, if you're keeping track!), and quickly get off that busy road to walk down into the real suburban neighborhood of private homes and lawns. City folk rarely encounter such things, except on television, but these are the staples of the American Dream in the post-war American Dreamscape. And my childhood. We walk:

Well, this is certainly a nice, modest single family home. Leaves on the lawn, nice little awning with pillars at the entry; and wonderfully tall and leafy trees seem to accompany the home and its family in their lives on Floyd Street. This feels familiar ....

But just across the street!

What happened here?! Well, let me leave this Mini-Marriott to your imagination, for I'm sure you all will have seen its like all across the metropolitan area, within sight of the turnpike or the parkway, along highways upstate, clustered like oversized beetles on impossibly green-turfed lawns. I was beginning to become a little afraid for my walk: don't tell me this is all I would have to show of Englewood Cliffs to my walkers?

It's like neighborhoods everywhere, in this particular block, as it proved. But it changed, as I walked on and a little to the west.

One must understand that, like St. Peter's College and the Palisades Mountain House, which were both sited on the former estate and acres of the Allisons', these homes also were on the once expansive acres of prior land-owners. I wonder who they were - and if there's anything left that might remind us of them?

Well, very little is left of the grand estates of yore, and what is has been transformed into the estates of others. But I'll fill you in at least a little when we walk together (we are, aren't we?) about the "Railroad suburbs" of Bergen County.

But we do have watered estates today! A couple of blocks down Pershing brought me to this expanse. A modern luxury. Yet, I hadn't seen anyone yet.

The only people I had seen out were the hired men taking care of the leaves - with machines! The colorful scenery was almost drowned by the roar of leaf blowing machinery; notice the "leaf pusher" this man has - and it's mechanized.

Yes, wide empty streets! But it was a beautiful day.

I was wondering about the neighborhood's history, however, and when I came to North Woodland Street, I turned left.

Hmm. Anyone know Gloria Crest? This was the home of Gloria Swanson, built in 1926 by a member of the Polish royal family (and named after his wife, not Gloria Swanson), and now the home of Jan and Edward Turen, who are also active in the theater world. I didn't poke my nose through the gate ... but we'll look when we all come, ok?

I turned right and began my walk away from the mansion, and down Walnut. Oh! Look at this modest home! Probably an "out" house for one of the neighboring mansions ... but again: where is everyone!

It was a beautiful day, and I was on my way to meet a school friend for lunch in Tenafly, so I had, as they say, things to do and people to meet! And miles to go before I would get a seat?

Well, technically, that's true but not a real problem. It was, you see such a wonderful day!

My ultimate destination: the railroad station in Tenafly - designed by Daniel Topping Atwood and on the National Register of Historic Places - but now it's Cafe Angelique. Time for a brunch snack!

A Man on the Street

2010-11-15T20:45:00.003-05:00

This will be a quick post; after all, I didn't know where I was going to go when I decided yesterday to take a walk down E. 10th Street from Avenue A and Tompkins Square. I'm a friendly sort of guy.

"Hello! How are you?" I asked the man sitting in the chair, in front of the Chinese Laundry, right across the street from the Boys Club. It was Philip C. LaLumia, 84, Co-Chairman of the A-1 East Tenth Street Block Association. He was born on E. 13th Street, across the street from 509, where Lucky Luciano lived. Oh, boy, this could be a long chat ....

But I did see Sal Anthony walk by - "Hi Sal," Philip said. "He got out of the restaurant," on Irving Place; some of you may remember it, "but the next fellow can't get his restaurant going because he now has to put all sorts of legal improvements into it, like handicapped accessible, bathrooms and everything. Too expensive." Philip has a lot of that knowledge. "Sal was grandfathered, so when that law was enacted he didn't have to do that."

You see, it's this kind of stuff you'll learn about from the "man sitting there, over there," on virtually any street. After all, Philip worked at the Boys Club for over 40 years:

"And the chairman of the board then " - all I remember is that it's not now - "squandered all that money on a basketball court at that wonderful wilderness camp the Club had in Jersey; he had it made so good, he had bleachers put up - and the town then said he had to "by law" put a parking lot in - and it all went the - "

There may be more ... but, I now know Philip - A.K.A. Philippo - who's "always there, they set out the chair for me, for my lunch - it's even delivered -" and I'll see him again ... I'm sure there are more installments to come!

Just Listening In, and then ...

2010-11-13T18:47:00.007-05:00

Yes, I was at one of my favorite coffee shops after a great tour on Wednesday last, after taking a group of four Englishwomen on a general tour of Manhattan by car, when I sat outside on the bench at Mud. I had had a nice lunch at Kenn's Broome Street Bar, thanks to my generous travelers, and afterwards it felt right to take a walk. To have my, ah, ambulatory digestif.

I walked up and over and found myself near E. 9th Street, so I walked into Mud and asked for some.

Mud

With their large cup I walked out again, and sat myself down on one of the two benches, which were empty, facing west toward the sun, and relaxed. Ahh, feeling very good. Good coffee too.

A young lady in black, wearing glasses, came out with her coffee and sat down across from me. I was paying no attention. Watching people pass. Thinking about the morrow. Computing bills to be paid.

"Can you make 3:30?"

My ears perked up.

"Then I will be there."

I asked my cross-bench companion, "What do you do when people have to change their appointments again and again?" I was really curious, because just the day before someone had been making and breaking appointments with me, and I was getting a little worried.

"Oh, it's always different. This one said he was with his friends - he had a two o'clock appointment but called just at 5 of as I was coming down his street to tell me he was with friends, could he reschedule. Well, so I said yes. I had a window of time, so there he had it."

"That's a little tight! What do you do?"

"I'm a professional dominatrix."

"Excuse me?" I didn't hear her, you see. She repeated.

We talked some more.

"And even you have a hard time controlling your clients," I said. The mind boggles.

I should have known ...

The Walk to Tenafly - Part Two

2010-11-12T12:58:00.028-05:00

Thanks for holding on there folks - I knew I would get back to telling you the tale to Tenafly in more detail. So, thanks for your patience.

You must realize: it's only a 25 minute walk across the George Washington Bridge, even with stopping to take a few pictures. And what's that? Oh, maybe a 20 block walk downtown; a walk across Central Park and down to the Metropolitan Museum, perhaps. It's not far, people, you can do it!

And once you have - well, after you've walk down a little, and under the highway and up a flight of steps, you're at the doorway (to adventure!):
Yes, the gateway to a new world - or the escape-way from your old, familiar one! Let's take just a few steps up.

Hmm. A sign: we're going on to the Long Path, eh? Carpenter's Trail ... Allison Park (that looks interesting), and Dyckman Hill Trail - wait! Is that the same Dyckman we know from uptown? From the Farm House at 204th and Broadway?

In fact, that's at least one of the places where the ferry from Dyckman Street would land in New Jersey. I wonder if we'll ever get that again? Because I know there used to be a ferry from over in Jersey that one of my childhood neighbors, when she was a student at Barnard in the 20's, used to take the ferry from her over to 125th Street and walk up the hill of Broadway to class. Ahh, yes, those were the days my friends ....

But I don't think I'll be going all the way to the Dyckman Hill Trail. But Allison Park, yes. We shall see that. So, I walk a bit to the left and, ahh...
This is why I came across the bridge! I'll take that path!

And it was true that at that time I didn't really care where it went! I could walk it, and easily. Such fun.

Just to stroll down with a purposeful stride. As if I knew where I was going - because that wasn't important! I was out and about, and I was on my way.

I knew there were to be some fantastic views ahead, and maybe even some more adventurers out to see the sights of late autumn over the river. But first I had to look back, as I got closer to the edge of the Palisades -
I've come all that way - and farther, it seems.

I spot a family by a lookout, and one who was new to the site. Very closeby was a fork in the path. "Where do we go Dad?" one of the boys asked. "Hmm..." he murmered. My cue: "Take the left path. It goes along the top - and there are restrooms not far!"

Oh, such an authority, I am I am! They exclaimed "Yay!" as I continued my walk.

Well! Who was here? Who have we to imagine lost these - eyes?! No, earrings. They looked rather nice - but I certainly left them there to startle the group now following me - I wonder if they left them there? I hope so, unless they knew who lost them - which I doubt.

The wonders of the woods: "Whose woods are these? I think I know," but he lives in the village below?

Onward!

A bridge! And not the George - such a change. This path is seeming to get somewhere ....

I cross a running brook, although I didn't see any frogs at first glance. Actually, come to think of it, I was so unlike myself when I was a kid growing up. I didn't stop to search for any wildlife! Hmm. Next time ....

This path seems to be arriving somewhere - and yes, this is Allison Park.

So, naturally, and you know me by now, I wonder who is Allison? As the website for the Palisades Park Conservancy informed me:

"William O. Allison (1849-1924), [...] had an estate at this location. Allison had been born in the "Undercliff" settlements, the son of fishermen and quarry workers. As a child he was made a ward of the Dana family, who owned a large estate on top of the cliffs. He succeeded in business and became one of the largest land owners along the Palisades, and was the principal owner of the Palisades Mountain House, also at this site, until it burned down in 1884."

What was the Palisades Mountain House? I had never heard of it:

And you could drive your rig along the Hudson River on the Hudson River Drive from Edgewater to Fort Lee, and up to the top of the cliffs and to the hotel. Many people did - even Calvert Vaux, one half of the team that designed Central Park, in the summer of 1880.

But today, all we have is Allison Park ... and the remnants of a few foundation elements ... and maybe this?
I have to check this out ....

Many of you have probably driven on Route 9W many times, passing all those spandexed bicyclists in the technicolor crouch of their preferred exercise, and maybe you've seen all the woods and wondered what may lie behind those trees.

I walk on to discover just what's around that corner. A nice stone cabin, filled with building
supplies, but with a wonderful view. I can't help but imagine the wonderful afternoon spend sipping wine and talking with close friends. All quiet, secluded, on the cliff and behind the trees. So close, and so far away.

I fear I'm ending my woods walk soon, but I go out into the clearing of the park - of Allison Park, to catch one of the great views of the river.
The great George Washington Bridge, over a mile away, as I walk on the Palisades, near where the great Palisades Mountain House stood until that terrible fire in 1884.

But now I seem to be heading out, and indeed there's a sign - and I think I'm on - oh no! - I'm on my way to the road!

And down at the end of the road is St. Peter's College, which will not be covered on this blog, at least in these installments - but I'm at the end of my sylvan wanderings - and due to walk for a short street on Sylvan Avenue, also known as Route 9W, into Englewood Cliffs, Englewood, and finally Tenafly. The Next Installment!

The Walk to Tenafly - Part One

2010-11-08T15:36:00.038-05:00

It was early, maybe, but the weather was bright, clear and cool - alright, chilly - as I stepped out of the George Washington Bridge Bus Terminal onto Fort Washington Avenue. Today I’m walking to Tenafly. The suburbs are going to be close, and not so “car far” that we can’t make a day’s walk more interesting and enlightening, even.

So, now you know the hours - but I got there at 8:30AM, a little late by my schedule. We shall see what pace I can keep up.

I had originally intended to take the Northwalk (as they call it) but that one was closed; I don’t know why, but no matter. It turned out I wasn’t alone - but I couldn’t get my camera out in time - whoosh! a whole fleet of bicycles passed me by!

I was amazed, actually, to be able to have an unobstructed view off the bridge. There was no high barrier at all, and considering the recent tragedy of the young man who jumped that was especially unnerving. But it didn’t bother anyone else, I guess.

Away in the distance is a group of speeding bicyclists too fast for me to catch for you, but I just had to enjoy the morning on the bridge - and get the pictures when I could. After all -

I could look over the Henry Hudson Parkway and the River toward New Jersey.

Jersey City is the city in the morning mist

I am planning to make this walk a public tour for those with an interest in understanding the growth of New York, and the establishment of its suburbs. After all, I grew up in Tenafly and biked all around when I was a kid there. Never really knew where I was, but, as they say, I never got lost.

People would stop me on the road and ask where route 501 was, or something like that, and I really had no idea! Maybe I knew that that was County Road, but that didn’t matter to me either. I just knew that was a way to go and that you’d find something down “that way.” My friends Scott and Bob would call, and we would all agree that we’d go for a “bike hike” and be off for the afternoon. We’d always be back home at about 5 or six; we never called to tell our Moms where we were, or if we’d be late. We never were.

We never even told them where we were going. We were, well, just going out. And that was that.

It is amazing how we’re all - or at least many or most of us - attached to our cell phones, our GPS, our umbilicals to Central, so to speak. How did we live back then?

So, Saturday I set out to see if I could, at least in part, recover that old spirit.

I reached the Fort Lee side.

I think that’s where the actual Fort was ... I'll have to go there, some time soon.

But first ... !

A Walk Almost Around the Island of Manhattan!

2010-10-25T14:03:00.034-04:00

Yes, we started out on Saturday morning, October 23rd at 8:45, right near Gracie Mansion, and took to the river path northward - on the Bobby Wagner Walk. This walk was at the request of Jim Wacht, who was inspired by a recent walk and an article in the New York Times - but he didn't just want to set out on his own - strolling aimlessly!

So, he enlisted my professional and experienced services for something that is more than just a casual walk in the park. He didn't want to lose himself in the wilds of a city he hadn't seen - even though he'd biked around it numerous times.

Jim sent out e-mails alerting his friends to this great event, and urged them to join in the fun. Ultimately, there were 8 and myself - oh, and Cooper the dog! (And I should have taken a picture of that cute thing, because at first I wasn't sure a dog would do the distance, or not be a hindrance, but no problem!)

We first walked up along the East River - and it's a nice walk:

Walking toward High Bridge

But this area didn't always look like this. No way! Check this photo:

The Harlem River, looking south to the Washington and High Bridges circa 1890

Soon, however, on July 3, 1898, in fact, this way was opened as a special drive. No, not the FDR Drive, of course. But, can you imagine this: the city perceived a need by the wealthy for a race course for their personal horses (and some of these individuals had many of them) so tax-payer money - more than a million dollars in the 1890s - was spent to make this playground for them.

The Speedway was a tremendous engineering feat - for the amusement of the "upper class."

But, there was a great formal opening of the Harlem River Speedway. Once we got past the inconveniences of 125th St., 135th St., and were able to get back to the river again, the going was easy. We did remark, however, that it was surprising how un-busy the East River is - at least on Saturday morning. But after the Speedway was opened -

The members of the sporting set flock to the Speedway to see the races! Fort George Hill is in the background. (From an undated postcard - colorized)

Well, by the time we had walked all the way up - I realized we had missed what would have been the real river traffic: the crews, rowing on the river! I had visited the Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse earlier in the week, and a young lady there told me that indeed this Saturday would be the busiest day of the week. But, maybe she meant that the rowers are early risers! We missed them. But, look at the gates. Quite an effect. And, of all people, the boathouse was designed by no other than Robert A. M. Stern Architects. Stern himself, while now the Dean of the Yale School of Architecture, was previously Professor of Architecture and Director of the Historic Preservation Program at the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation at Columbia University. (Is it significant that this isn't Columbia's boathouse, but one that's shared by Manhattan College, NYU, Fordham, and the New York RowingAssociation? Probably not.) But it's so refreshing to see such developments happening up around Dyckman Street - where hardly anyone ever ventures.

Look at this marvelous, floating boathouse:

The Peter Jay Sharp Boathouse

So, perhaps the "high-flyers" of the 21st Century aren't equestrians, and are boaters instead. After all, it's much better for one's health - and is much cheaper than keeping horses!

Right next to the boathouse are we discovered Swindlers Cove - and another fruit, so to speak, of the New York Restoration Project (NYRP), founded by Bette Midler. We found a glorious little park:

Hmm. What have we here? Quite a lot, actually!

It is really a small park, but it does do wonders to relax and reinvigorate a walker on a trek.

- and there is a restroom there too, as well as many very comfortable places to rest and ponder where to go next.

And so we rested!

We are almost ready to really rest: to have lunch. But we must do what we have to do - tweet:

We actually had followers in cyberspace - cheering us on in our marathon quest to circumambulate the island! So, Meryl, Jim's wife and a travel writer herself, kept all apprised on our discoveries and progress toward our ultimate goal.

We had just come down the hill (in the background) from the railroad tracks, after lunch at the Indian Road Cafe, and were marveling at the Little Red Lighthouse.

Next Stop: Watch for my next installment!

October 9, 2010 - On John Lennon's Birthday

2010-10-11T20:40:00.010-04:00

Rowboats on the lake - hundreds on the Bethesda Terrace; but I'm ... in the woods?

Yes, everybody in New York was out this past weekend - and more than that was in the Central Park. Where does everyone come from? It seems, however, that there are still places ....

... where a little privacy can be found. Not that I was looking to butt in; I walked on and away.

Yet, it was lovely to see so many out, in the park, and on the water - in the largest city in North America.

And, on John Lennon's birthday: "Imagine all the people living life in peace."

That evening, at Summer Stage in Rumsey Field, the park screened a new documentary "LennonNYC" which all of us can see on PBS on November 22. We can then see how the city energized him, we're told - maybe as we all can be too?

It's autumn! Go out - walk - see what is new!

And I did that day myself - just by walking around the corner of E. 71st St., from Park Avenue, onto Madison as I was heading to the park ... but wow! What did I see?

It's the new Ralph Lauren store for Home and Women - where his Polo store was, remember? It officially opens this Friday, October 15, I believe. Might be worth a visit!

I have drawn a strong contrasting image, but this is New York, and I think it's all about beauty and energy - and don't forget, when people really live together, really are together .... Well, imagine ....!

It's Time to Take a Walk ...

2010-10-06T20:57:00.006-04:00

I am the one here to tall you about walking, and why it's important to go out there among the people of the city -0 your city, any city or town - and walk miles if you have to so that you can feel the changes in your city.

So, I've been so busy lately (and only some of that business was real work - but we'll talk about that another time) that I haven't just taken a direction and followed it. Today - I did.

I was down at the World Trade Center site, in fact - and don't make a mistake: they're building alright. Seven days a week. No delays now. The Memorial will be ready by next September 11, and One World Trade Center will be topped out in 2013.

I was downtown to see an insurance agent, so I walked down to 45 Broadway - but I went a different route.

Yes, as you all know, we have a lot of tourists in town. And many of them are Asian. Here was one taking a picture of the construction at the Trade Center Site - just before he and his companions returned to their coach:

I'm happy so many are taking part even in that way in our rebuilding - it makes for a more exciting celebration when it's all finished, I'm sure.

And after my appointment I took a walk up to the West Village through Tribeca.

But, and I'm sure you'll recognize this phenomenon: I discovered something so amazing I forgot to take a picture of it! What was that?

Well, I learned where the Mysterious Bookshop went after it left West 56th Street 5 years ago (or was it longer? Even the nice fellow at the register couldn't remember!). It is at 58 Warren Street now. Check it out!

Yes, yes, I bought another book. But - not just any book! No, a special book: the second of the mystery books that (dum de dum dum) Gypsy Rose Lee wrote: "Mother Finds a Body" - in hardcover - with a dustjacket! Such a deal!

And I bet there's a few of you out there who don't know who Gypsy Rose Lee was (shame on you), and even more who don't know how she relates not only to New York City but to the even greater and wider world of letters of the world!

Stay tuned! Your guide will tell all!

Another Public Tour

2010-09-12T19:39:00.019-04:00

The Street Teacher led a very convivial group on Labor Day from Joe, the Art of Coffee at 141 Waverly Place, by Gay Street, on a wonderful day, all the way down 9th Street, ending at the Life Cafe for brunch. So ... what's next?

A Columbus Day Walk

Well, a reprise of the Ninth Street Walk would be fun - we knew there was a lot to explore, but when we were just beginning we realized how full this street really is. There's more!

We have discovered many interesting characters have lived and are living still on this wonderful street - so The Street Teacher will lead another walk down Ninth Street on Sunday, October 10, meeting again at Joe the Art of Coffee, at 10:00am - yes, another Holiday: it's Columbus Day Weekend. (Although it's a Federal Holiday on October 11, it wouldn't be fair to many to hold the tour Monday, so the tour will go on Sunday.)

After all, there are some people I must tell you about!

So, if you missed the Labor Day Walk, or want to join up for the Columbus Day Walk - please contact The Street Teacher at to register. The cost is $25 per person.

Note: we will have listening devices for your convenience! No shouting down the street!

PLEASE NOTE:
It's a Sunday, so mass transit may be on a less frequent (or, as in the case of the cross-town M8 bus, non-existent) basis. You might benefit from the MTA Trip planner.

If you feel you are going to be late, please call or text 917-921-9273; we only wait until 5 minutes past the hour.

And, if the group be amenable and you're hungry - we may stop for brunch at the end! Let The Street Teacher know! (Oh, brunch is at individual expense.)

See you there and then!

Summer Streets - First Saturday

2010-08-07T17:42:00.014-04:00

I hope you New Yorkers are aware that, for the third year in a row, three Saturday mornings in August shall known as Summer Streets, and be free of automobiles etc. on Park Avenue, Fourth Avenue (and how many of you know the history - or the length - of 4th Avenue!?), Lafayette Street, and Center Street all the way to City Hall from 7:00am to 1:00pm on August 7, 14, and 21. Yes, indeed! Only walkers, runners, skaters and bikers can navigate those streets on those mornings - and can cruise all the way across the Brooklyn Bridge to the fourth largest city in the United States, Brooklyn!

The Brooklyn Bridge, from the Brooklyn Bridge Park in D.U.M.B.O.

Well, of course, it's not really a city - but the third largest city is Chicago, with 2,851,268 and then the "fourth," Houston, has only 2,257,926 so it's reasonable that Brooklyn with 2,465,326 in the 2000 census (and 2,567,098 was the 2009 estimate) can be considered the fourth.

And while we're on the subject, all five boroughs of New York include 8,008,278 in the 2000 census (and 8,391,881 in the 2009 estimate). Los Angeles, by the way, with 3,831,868 is the second largest city (although I think it holds a unique position as the largest incorporated suburb!).

So, how is Brooklyn today? Wonderful! And with matchless views of Manhattan - and this year, from the Brooklyn Bridge Park, I enjoyed a lovely restful view of my home borough:

Manhattan as seen from D.U.M.B.O. under the Manhattan Bridge

I have run over another bridge recently, however, and not on a car free day either.

Last week, in my adventures to extend my running and touring range, I ran all the way down along the East River as far as I could - which was only E. 63rd Street (because of some construction on the ramp at 60th Street) - and down 1st Avenue, then through Tompkins Square Park to Avenue B. Then across Houston to Clinton Street - and past the Clinton Street Baking Company & Restaurant (but I didn't stop!) to Delancy Street and the Williamsburg Bridge.

The entrance for bicycles and pedestrians on the Williamsburg Bridge

What you can't tell yet, as you start over the bridge, is that very soon the bicycles and pedestrians split from each other completely! The pedestrians will have the south or downriver lanes all to themselves while the bicycles will have the north or upriver sides to themselves.

(The M Subway train goes over this bridge. In fact, the M has in these down economic times gone through a morphing when the V train was eliminated in June. We Manhattan riders had to learn the V recently - but to no purpose because the V is dead and the M has taken over some of its route. Check out an interesting blog, Queens Crap, for the, ah, down and dirty! Oh, and when - not if - the 2nd Avenue Subway finishes its first stage - from 125th Street to 59th Street - the Q will assume that new extension. That is, until the - are you ready? - T train takes over the line all the way to ... hmm ... ah, yes: Hanover Square!)

Well, once over the bridge - saying hello to everyone I passed on the way, and getting nice smiles from everyone except a tall bearded man in long black coat and wide-rimmed black hat who walked past me staring straight ahead ... hmm ... I was in Williamsburg!

I ran up Bedford Street to N. 7th Street - and look at this:

Yes, indeed! Brooklynites, at least those in Williamsburg, ride their bikes to work. Here I suspect they're locked up so that their riders can take the L train to work. You'd think there'd be something just a little more official?

But I wanted to run to the shore line, so I ran up to N. 8th Street, turned left and ran 3 blocks to the East River State Park on Kent Avenue. Wow! What they're doing with the place!

Yes, that's Manhattan in the distance! And no sound of trains from any bridge - you're in Williamsburg!

The East River State Park in Williamsburg is only 7 acres, recovered from a former railroad yard and shipping station; there are a few areas still in concrete, but they're used as platforms for the "pool parties" that used to be held in McCarren Park - until their pool came back into action as a pool.

Yes, that means that on Sundays during the summer, and various other times no doubt, there are bands playing for free - Free Williamsburg! (I dare you to hum along! And notice the fans: in my day, said the old codger, the long hairs weren't only the ones on stage! I swear all the fans work on Wall Street .... Ah, where are the hippies of yesteryear ...!)

But, just look down toward the southern end of the Park and you'll see -

- yes, these are new condominiums built within the last three years. They're not all occupied, yet, but, well, Brooklyn is beginning to look an awful lot like ..... (to be continued.)

Next Public Tour: September 6 - Labor Day!

2010-07-30T09:55:00.015-04:00

Yes, I know - I haven't had a public tour since Memorial Day and my E. 78th Street Walk. But that was a good time, and I had a nice turnout - and I believe we had a good time, too. Some of us even closed out the walk with a nice lunch at Serafina's on Madison and E. 79th Street. Good food!

So, you ask: what's next? Let's go downtown, this time ... to Ninth Street!

Once again, I'm not walking you down a "main" street, like W. 8th Street and St. Marks Place. No, that's not my style! Rather, let's explore a street just north of it ... and examine more closely the buildings that grace the sidewalks, and talk about some of those who lived there and made them their home. And let's just marvel at the grace notes that seem to be all over at times - that do so much to make New York a wonderful place to live in and explore. For, after all, around every corner, wonders may arise -

Oh, no I can't give away too much! But, you should remember that the Village wasn't always like what it is today ... but what did it look like? Remember the Jefferson Market Courthouse - and jail?

The next year - the market was gone! What happened to the jail? We shall see - we shall see all!

And that's only just after the beginning of our walk ... which shall begin at Joe, at the corner of Waverly Place and Gay Street, at 10am on Monday, September 6 - Labor Day! That's right, this is a walk for those of you intrepid enough to stay in the city for - for the U.S. Tennis Open? For the peace and quiet of a late summer day in the city without crowds? Who knows! But, you'll walk with me and see and hear from very interesting places and things ... and end up in a neighborhood considered on of the BEST in North America!

And perhaps you'll enjoy a cool Root Beer near one of the great community gardens of the East Village -
It's all good. Please let The Street Teacher know as soon as you can if you'd like to join him along Ninth Street on Labor Day! The cost will be $25 per person, and we'll be meeting at 10:00am on Monday, September 6, at Joe, at 141 Waverly Place, at the corner of Waverly and Gay Street. Please send an e-mail to Bill@TheStreetTeacher.com to register.

What? You don't know Joe? See their video!

A Summer Night

2010-07-23T16:36:00.021-04:00

I'm going to give you more frequent doses of The Street Teacher on his blog - I promise!

So, last evening, and one can take advantage of this on other Thursday evenings this summer, many of us went out to Liberty Island for a dinner of lobster with corn on the cob - and a leisurely walk around the statue. A pleasant place - and quiet too - when you have the opportunity to subtract the crowds and the heat of the mid-day sun. Ahh.....

The moon was almost full, and seemed to nuzzle up against the soft side of our Lady Liberty, as she posed there in the simmering setting sun. Many were there, but not enough to destroy the calm that seemed to be with us like a calming breeze; the heat had spared us all last night, and the breezes kept us cool.

We could see our other favorite island in a quite different light:

The daily tourist, or traveler, cannot enjoy this view; the ferry stops too early for them. Only on

these Thursday nights is this possible. And we had a wonderful evening.

When it came time for us all to depart (for if we missed the ferry, as the rather abrupt ranger said in the beginning, "you swim"), we gathered on the top deck to enjoy the cruise home through the evening waves.

It was a little hard to believe that's where some of us live, but it is - and we weren't the only ones in the harbor to celebrate Manhattan.

We looked back at Lady Liberty - standing and admiring .... There were many who watched the sun caress the water, and reflect off all the buildings.

The evening may not have been long enough for some, but all of us enjoyed the life on the water of the harbor at least for a little while. Perhaps we could imagine ourselves passengers on private yachts, or crewmembers of commercial vessels of years ago ....

Yet, those dreams are but that - right? Dreams?

Yes - but we will always dream!

Public Tour on May 31 - Memorial Day!

2010-05-22T09:15:00.015-04:00

Good morning all! I have been away from my blog for too long - but I have been busy. Many tours, more interesting visitors and travelers, and I am now hosting a Public Tour on May 31 for those of you who may be in New York over this next weekend, and particularly on Memorial Day.

Of all days! you say? Well, yes, and we'll take a nice walk in a little explored neighborhood - in fact, a neighborhood I feel that many have not considered as one even though many, many people have been here and continue to walk this street every day.

What's that? It's East 78th St., from the East River all the way to Central Park - a most varied block, with history both personal and political, not too mention financial and global. All on a single street.

I've been interested in this street ever since I saw the Duke Mansion on the Fifth Avenue corner. Yet, that was only the beginning of the street - and for us it will be near the ending of our tour. We'll start on York Avenue - and we'll certainly discuss that as well! - at my local coffee shop, Beanocchio's, at 11:00. If you would come, remember the cost will be $25 per person - which includes coffee! - and you should come at least 15 minutes early. We will introduce ourselves, and get adjusted for our walk. Expect to be on E. 78th St. for between 2 and 3 hours - and we'll be ending at Central Park.

New York City has been through quite a winter this past year! My East 78th Street certainly saw its share of drifts and snow plows, and those of you watching the progress of the 2nd Avenue Subway may have had to avoid all kinds of interesting equipment on your travels down that avenue too.

Of course, we'll be walking across 2nd Avenue: the subway is coming. But, did you know that something was supposed to be substituting for that subway until it was finished? What! You don't know? Why, it was the Third Avenue El! (Click on that link - it's fun.) Yes, we'll talk about that too.

The real estate market seemed to plunge a big too, with rentals becoming quite abundant, and prices even dipping close to $1100 per month - but we're not talking two bedrooms here of course! Some of the buildings we will see on our walk have been for sale, and others have apartments within them that have been rented or sold.

Here is the "great room" of a two bedroom apartment, now available for $1,850,000, at 188 E. 78th Street. Hmm. Quite reasonable ... size, anyway!

Or perhaps you have the idea for a somewhat more modest abode, at 508 E. 78th Street, which in years past could have accommodated a family of four that is only $360,000:

Oh, we'll see the exteriors of these buildings, and I will tell the stories of many of them and their inhabitants that can remind you, perhaps, of people you know, or relationships you may have enjoyed in years past, as we walk though time, but just down the street - down just one of the streets in the city where some of you really live.

And maybe some of you will remember this musical! I'd love to hear someone hum a tune from it! (Go ahead - click on the image above!)

So, we already have a number of walkers signed up - come and join us! E-mail us: Bill@TheStreetTeacher.com - come all!

Art in New York! Come and Look!

2010-03-12T10:03:00.012-05:00

Last week, on March 4 through March 7, Piers 92 and 94 on the Hudson River were dedicated to the Armory Art Show, the foremost contemporary art fair in America featuring leading international galleries representing new art by living artists. While much more new art works were visible at a number of galleries all over town, your guide, however, limited himself to Pier 94, thanks to an artist friend. We arrived at noon, when the gallery opened, and were able to see much of the exhibit - before throngs of people seemed to come out of the sky and arrive en masse!

But we did see some interesting work. At left is a branch with a crow, perched with his legs in pants, and going back and forth, as it squawks unintelligibly at us - a berating bird?!

Much of the art was perhaps easier to approach and appreciate, however; not all of it was so striking or unusual.

Yet, it was a massive exhibit, with thousands of works of art of many of the most prominent contemporary artists, both from the U.S. and abroad.

One mini-gallery was dedicated to a New York artist, however, whose work particularly struck me as compelling:
This is one of the works of James Nares, who has been working in New York for more than 35 years. My photograph doesn't do him justice, I'm afraid. (He is represented by the Paul Kasmin Gallery.) But it was quite striking.

The Armory Art Show is a very brief one, however, although it does get quite a crowd during those four days. And some of them are just beginning their appreciation of the finer things in the art world.

One of the greatest things about watching children is appreciating how immediate their connection to their reality can be. They probably don't approach a work of art wondering what it "means," or whether it's "worth" a lot of money. Or at least not at first.

But it is very possible that confronted with this work of art, entitled Quartet, a young art observer might have some questions!

All in all, it was a very wonderful exhibit, even when some exhibits seemed to have an almost ironic approach to their existence -
- but I wish I could catalogue them all.

SNØHETTA, at The Scandinavia House

2010-02-10T15:47:00.013-05:00

Some of you may know that my mother was Norwegian. All of you should know by now that New York is literally a babel of many languages, and a mall of many nations; there is no surprise in discovering a "stranger" every day here in New York. Yet I do try to get people to refresh themselves by taking a break from the mad rush of every day life; I try to get many New Yorkers themselves to just slow down and take a closer look at all the "familiar" strangers around them.

So, one day last week I took a friend to see an exhibit of extraordinary architecture of Snøhetta at the Scandinavia House, at 58 Park Avenue at 38th Street. Walking in we were greeting by the very welcoming expanse of the restaurant Smørgas Chef, which is now in its most appropriate venue, although it's in many locations about town, ranging from Stone Street to Greenwich Village.

But let's take a look up stairs on the third floor ... at the new opera house in Oslo:

It almost appears to be wading in the water! But that is also a terrific recapturing of the common waterfront for the residents of Oslo for whom that area had been a disheveled and forbidding spot. In fact, as the structure seems to dip its wide toe into the sea, we are reminded that the water in Norway is considered common property. No one can "own" beach or waterfront. This building, in accord with Snøhetta's green ethos, supports that mood entirely.

"In 1987 the landscape architects Inge Dahlman, Berit Hartveit and Johan Østengen contacted landscape architects Alf Haukeland, and architects Øyvind Mo and Kjetil Trædal Thorsen to join together to make a collaborative studio. The idea was to incorporate architecture and landscape architecture into one design process. The studio was placed above a “brown” beer hall in Storgata in Oslo where they used to hang out. The beer hall is called "Dovrehallen" which means the "Dovre’s Hall". Dovre is the mountain area where Snøhetta is the highest peak. The collaborative took the name Snøhetta Arkitektur & Landskap."

But their very first real big contract came almost as soon as their firm was established, after they won the competition for the design and construction of the library in Alexandria, Egypt. It was conceived and executed with the aid of an American from California, Craig Dykers, who is now, with Kjetil Trædal Thorsen, one of the two principals.

The New Library of Alexandria also hosts a number of institutions:

• The Academia Bibliotheca Alexandrinae (ABA)
• Arabic Society for Ethics in Science & Technology (ASEST)
• The Anna Lindh Foundation for Dialogue between Cultures, the first Euro–Med foundation based outside Europe
• The Institute for Peace Studies (IPS) of the Suzanne Mubarak Women for Peace Movement
• The HCM Medical Research project (located in Shallalat premises)
• The Jean-Rene Dupuy Center for Law and Development
• The Arab Regional Office of the Academy of Science for the Developing World (ARO-TWAS)
• The International Federation for Library Associations (IFLA) Regional Office
• The Secretariat of the Arab National Commissions of UNESCO
• The Middle Eastern and North African Network for Environmental Economics (MENANEE)

Already receiving over 800,000 visitors a year, it seems also a force for peace as well as learning.

So, what does all that mean to us New Yorkers? Don't we have a great library too?

Well, the New York Public Library doesn't include anywhere as many separate organizations, although Library employees once ran a Co-operative General Store in the building's basement. The store opened June 9, 1920, and carried everything from stockings to sardines. It sold groceries and general merchandise, canned and fresh foodstuffs, produce, tobacco products, even clothing and sewing notions.

And while it may not attract quite so many people to itself during a year, it's busiest year was 1929-1930 when as many as 800 to 1000 people would be in the main reading room (now known as the Rose Reading Room) at any one time - with people standing in line waiting to get a seat. In fact, the busiest day in the library was December 30 when 8,939 books were requested.

And you know what?! Norbert Pearlroth, the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Researcher from 1923 to 1975, found all the information for the newspaper feature using the huge collection in the Library's Main Reading Room. A speaker of several languages with a prodigious memory, Mr. Pearlroth came to the Library each day, and relied on serendipity to find his amazing facts. It's estimated that he reviewed 7,000 books each year (that's 364,000 in 52 years)!

Whew! Believe it or not!

Yet, this is just a little digression. I'm not bringing up Snøhetta's wonderful work just to point out the wonders of our glorious library. It is a fact that Snøhetta has done work around the world, but its two headquarters are in Oslo - and at 25 Broadway in New York City. Why? Because they have been awarded the commission to design the Museum Pavilion that will serve as the entrance to the Memorial Museum:

The Memorial site is conforming to the master plan that was drawn up by Daniel Liebeskind, for which he won the design competition (not for the Liberty Tower he put in there that has been replaced by David Child's tower - which simply has more rentable space).

So, the world is coming together, slowly but surely. Be patient - have faith: it will be built!

Art in New York - in DUMBO

2010-02-04T14:13:00.016-05:00

Many of you have heard about DUMBO, Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, but how many of you have ever been there? Did you know that the corrugated cardboard box we know today was devised there by Robert Gair in 1890 - and that the community was so famous for his creation it was then originally called Gairville?

Cardboard boxes are still with us, of course, but "Gairville" is not - except as signage on certain of his buildings. One of them, however, is certainly visible and even famous: the Clock Tower (not to be confused with Watchtower! Wait for another post about that - in a few months) which is visible to the left as you cross from Manhattan on the Brooklyn Bridge.

Instead of cardboard boxes being made in this building and many of the others, they are being received by new residents who have moved into these buildings, making them their quite fashionable homes in one of the thriving and comfortable residential mixed use areas in this city.

But the primary attraction in DUMBO is the galleries and studios of the artists there. In fact, once these buildings had been abandoned by the manufacturing companies 20 and more years ago (Brillo was also made here, and you can still see the railroad tracks coursing through the streets), artists had moved in, many of them from SoHo who were being priced out by up-scale retailers and condo conversions.

DUMBO has been more fortunate, and has retained a large number of galleries, and it's one of them I want to direct you to today: The Dumbo Arts Center (DAC) at 30 Washington Street.

On January 9 I witnessed the opening night of an almost astonishing installation there called Pixelville, curated by my high school friend Peter Frank. As he describes it:

Pixelville is the collaborative project of the sculptor Nivi Alroy and new media artist Shirley Shor. As Israeli women close in age, Alroy and Shor share many experiences and observations, but discovered their common aesthetic and social purpose only recently, once both had relocated to New York.

Immediately, I knew I had to see it - New York helped make it happen!

When I walked in, and I walked from the subway with Peter whom I met by chance right there on the platform, I went right on in to the art. (Peter knows everybody, so he was immediately talking to an artist named Nelson who creates art by cutting hair - yes, it's true: Electric Chaircut.)

At first - what to make of it!

Certainly unusual, and I wasn't the only one curious and perhaps confused. But I have learned that I should reserve my "judgement," and let my feelings inform me before I start to put words and "understanding" to work. I looked at more of this installation.

What is that - a boat? Hmm. I walk on ... I even see some sand at the bow ... I feel there's something like an analogy at work here ....

Good grief! What is this, I asked myself.

And then there was this:

Very very interesting. Now I'm beginning to understand the subtitle to the art: An urban concept in real time.

But there's more!

What I've seen so far is the art of Nivi Alroy, but the art of Shirley Shor seems quite different. Look at this centerpiece of the installation: it's a sandbox, with multi-colored lights projecting an ever-changing constellation of colored lights down onto it - representing, I later learn, the border lines on territory over time as they change with populations building and re-building - and de-building, if you will - over time.

On the left, let's say, the outline of geographical areas; right - people building; center - all over the place!

There are wall-hangings too, some seeming to be two dimensional, but the digital insert changes in time, so in fact it's three dimensional - but with time instead of depth.

And others were three dimensional in the way we easily understand, like this one.

Yes, by now I was beginning to get the feeling that I could appreciate this art. It is conceptual, not really abstract, and it could easily be articulated into a narrative if I were to want to do that.

There is a lot more, and it rewards examination with attention, but with a loose sensibility; let the art work on you. Don't try to work on the art. It will come, I guarantee. Let's meet the artists.

Peter Frank, Nivi Alroy, and Shirley Shor
Pixelville, at the Dumbo Arts Center
30 Washington Street, Brooklyn

So go, visit DUMBO, and see art at the Dumbo Arts Center - and many other places too!

See the world, and Manhattan, from a different perspective.

The Brooklyn Bridge, from DUMBO

Thanksgiving - and Tradition Changes!

2010-02-04T10:52:00.012-05:00

Oh, boy it seems like a lot has happened since my last post. I have been simply too occupied to keep up with my blog and newsletter, so for those of you who have been wondering, I will keep you in the loop from now on.

First thing that comes to mind is - Thanksgiving! Remember that? I grew up in suburban New Jersey, Tenafly in fact, so this year I went there for the Traditional Turkey Day Classic - and had a mini reunion of not only my class but others both before and after mine. And those football players - they looked not only young but small!

What was most interesting of course was meeting so many of my fellow team mates from back in the sixties, when we had an undefeated season and were such different people. Many of us wore those football jackets - but my mother had given mine to the garbage man! Here's John Godfrey '66 in his jacket. (I don't know why, but he always looked "concerned." Maybe he was just wondering if he really remembered who we all were!)

So, while John seems to have kept his light brown hair, we can't avoid the fact that most of us are (help!) approaching ... yes, approaching that age, and so it shouldn't be surprising that the star quarterback and captain of my team, Rob Nelson, is sporting a - well, the picture tells it all!

Yes, some of us aren't using Just For Men and are proudly flaunting our pedigree.

There were some class members of other earlier classes who displayed their enthusiasm in proud Tenafly Tiger fashion - but I wonder? Does Ron Wittreich ever wear those pants at any other time?
But then again he's from a class in the forties, so he can do whatever he wants!

This day was a vacation from New York City, a break from the Macy's parade, and a return to my (have to say it!) roots for what they were worth. And I re-encountered many from the "old" days because this game was the last not only of the season but for the league as well. The Bergen County Scholastic League - BCSL American - is being scrapped for something else, and so our "traditional" rival, Dumont, would be playing with someone else.

But what was perhaps a more significant change in our tradition was signaled - pun intended - by the last person to hold the ball in that 34-6 Tenafly victory: quarterback Emma Lieberman.

Yes! That's right, 17 year old senior Emma has been playing football with the boys since 7th grade. The article in the Bergen Record the next day featured her: Tenafly Female QB Makes History. Check her out! Here she is - all 130 pounds of her - handing off to her running back.

So, as the article says, while she may not be the first female football player in the league, she is the first quarterback. Times are a-changin', right?

Mariner’s Church Fellowshippers group

2009-10-22T09:51:00.025-04:00

October with Exploritas began for me with a big group for a six day stretch - and what a great time it was for all.

Before I met this group, however, and after my workout, I was having coffee on a bench outside a neighborhood coffee shop, when a neighbor seemed to be asking me:

"You say you're going to meet some people today?"

And, like him, I didn't have a clue really as to who they all were. It was my first job with Exploritas - formerly known as Elder Hostel, now changing its name to seem less restrictive, I think, even though it really wasn't before. Although I had had jobs that extended over a span of days before, this would be unique in my experience. I would be the coordinator on their visit to New York, over 5 plus days - morning to night! Their itinerary was designed by their leader, John Torrel and my boss Molly Goodrich of Explore New York, whose main business is Exploritas tours.

So, who are my people?

Here's the mob shot! Everyone lined up and eager - taking a break at the bottom of Battery Park City, at Robert F Wagner Junior Park, while we were on our bus tour on our first day. Some wore their red hats - but it wasn't so necessary then because we were all on the bus.

The red Explore New York hats help us all stay together when we trek around the city, so it could prove invaluable later on our tour.

The bus tour we did on Friday, which enabled us to have lunch at Grand Central Terminal.
All milling around - getting ready to snack or have lunch at the food court - Patti and JJ were happy to be in New York - and I as their guide smiled to the challenge. I have yet to meet all the others, however. So, we shall see.

Every morning we could see our favorite neighbor - the Empire State Building, just a couple of blocks down 34th Street at Fifth Avenue. Some had gone up that first night, but on Saturday, the day after our full city bus tour, we bussed over to Pier 83 to the Circle Line for a liesurely cruise up the Hudson River to Bear Mountain. We should see some color in the trees - but first the cloudy morning kept most of us inside. Here Ken holds his seat, and his umbrella.

But our group wasn't the only ones on the boat - and the others were outside enjoying the fresh air.
But it certainly didn't look promising as we waited to cast off at the dock. Still, the cameras were out, and many still clicked away at targets for their scrap books:
And so we headed out onto the fjord of the Hudson River, Audrey sits with Jim and Debbie Sorenson, comfortable, knowing that good weather will follow.
There is, of course, a wind outside, and soon the Circle Line's guide reminds that this might be a good time for the "Titanic Moment." So, of course, there are candidates for that Oscar moment!
It's a happy time on the boat already!

We begin cruising up the river, without any major sights, although we did get the opportunity to see the shoreline as we passed Riverdale in the Bronx.

You can see how grey the day is for us. Would it stay this way?

Well, no it wouldn't!

We landed at Bear Mountain - and began the climb.

Of course, there were only about 28 of us, and the boat seemed pretty full - especially considering how drizzly and cloudy it seemed when we began. No one, however, was daunted. And, you know, I really didn't know what was up the hill. I looked back at the boat - and I see that Ken and his wife are on their way down the dock.

We all begin our walk up.

Hmm. We find a tent .... And that's not the half of it!

There's a Polka band up there!

And I didn't for some reason didn't take a picture of the long lines for the schnitzel and wurst, and beer in liter mugs, but you'll see the beer in the woman's hand above? That's a small mug!

So, some of the Mariners began by sitting, resting after their climb up the hill - while people already up there began their party in earnest. In the picture on the right, the girl on the left has one of the big mugs ($20, including the souvenir mug, and $7 for refills).

But our group did get in the swing of things:
And I don't think those are reluctant smiles either! Everyone had a great time. And, although it was a challenge for him, Jim Sorenson made his way up the long slope - and danced a two-step too!
It was such a great time it is almost hard to believe that that outing was just one day of the whole trip - and just the second day at that. But, not to rush, it became a beautiful day so that on our slow cruise back we all were able to luxuriate on the deck of the boat and relax in the cool sunny breeze.
That was Saturday. On Sunday we took the subway up to Harlem to have brunch at Maude's Spoonbread, and a little walk through Harlem. We walked at our own pace - and got stuck in the middle of Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard!
Notice all our red Explore New York hats! Very easy to keep this excited group together with them!

We walked down 139th Street and passed by the house of Nobel Sissel, a great Harlem musician - which house just happens to be owned now by our leader Molly! I neglected to whip out my camera (maybe JJ took a picture?), but Molly did give our group an idea of housing in a small part of the big city.

But we then went to Frederick Douglas Boulevard to catch a bus - and met up with some interesting people at the bus stop. One woman, who appeared to have been an olympic caliber swimmer at one time, regaled us with her adventures as we waited. All were mesmerized.
Once on the bus, which seemed a long time in coming, and was pretty full when it came so our 30 people certainly filled it up to the max, one 63 year old grandmother of 22 got up to give one of our group her seat - she was getting off soon, she said!

A Sunday Afternoon Walking through Central Park

2009-10-07T10:05:00.011-04:00

Last Sunday afternoon I saw a movie with my son over at Lincoln Square, at 68th and Broadway - and yes, I know it was a beautifully sunny day and I should have been outside etc. etc. - but, I just wanted to take that break from "the world." (We saw "The Invention of Lying" and it was certainly an escapist film!)

When we left, I went shopping for socks, and Jake went home. And then I went walking ... down West 74th Street. Why not?

And I discovered - or, rather, re-discovered - a beautiful row of homes that seems to me to be quite unique, one of which I've pictured below:

This is just one of the terrace of buildings, and as such it is singular if only because it displays a violation of the West Side Historic District's restrictions. See the planters up top?

They're not supposed to be there! In fact, and I'm sure the casual observer wouldn't really think it is all that important, but look here - there is an actual notice, a Certificate of Appropriateness, that specifically states:

"Pursuant to Section 25-307 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York, the Landmarks Preservation Commission, at the Public Meeting of July 13, 2004, following the Public Hearing of July 13, 2004, the Landmarks Preservation Commission voted to deny the proposal to allow the re-installation of planters installed directly above the mansard roof above the fifth floor ...."

But, you see: it's still there. Just how current is this notice, I wonder. So, I read on:

"In reviewing this proposal, the Commission noted that 34 West 74th Street is a Georgian Revival style rowhouse with Beaux-Arts style elements, one of a row of eighteen, designed by Percy Griffin and built in 1902-1904; and that the building's age, style, scale, materials, and details are among the features which contribute to the special architectural and historic character of the Upper West Side/Central Park West Historic District, and also the Central Park West- West 73rd-74th Street Historic District; The Commission also noted that Landmarks
Preservation Commission Notice of Violation V-02-0260 was issued on March 24, 2002, for the "Installation of fence at roof without permit(s)"; that staff visited the site and determined that the fence cited in the violation was actually the continuous row of planters; that the pergola was also visible from the street and been installed without permits; that a glass block wind screen on the west side of the building was partially visible in photographs taken at the time of designation and was therefore grandfathered; that the applicant had the planters and pergola removed prior to the hearing; and that the cited warning letter was rescinded. With regard to the denied planter installation, the Commission found that that the planters have been designed in a manner which significantly changes the appearance of the historic mansard roof; that the planters stand out
against the skyline in a manner which draws undue attention to them; and that for these reasons the re-installation of the planters, as designed, will detract from the special architectural and historic character of the building, the row, and both historic districts."

This notice was first published on 09/07/2004, and is set to expire on 07/13/2010. I wonder - and there's more to this certificate, but not much, just how long it will take to remove these planters. But I'm also impressed that there is such official permission, and restrictions, granted. I wonder who would enforce this? I read on:

"All approved drawings are marked approved by the Commission with a perforated seal indicating the date of approval. The work is limited to what is contained in the perforated documents. Other work or amendments to this filing must be reviewed and approved separately. The applicant is hereby put on notice that performing or maintaining any work not explicitly authorized by this permit may make the applicant liable for criminal and/or civil penalties, including imprisonment and fines. This letter constitutes the permit; a copy must be prominently displayed at the site while work is in progress."

Wow! Imprisonment and fines! They could mean business! (And isn't the internet a wonderful thing. I didn't see this permit posted anywhere, but with a little searching I discovered it. And, of course, as a properly licensed busy-body (aka NYC Tour Guide) I sent it off to the Committee to Preserve the Upper West Side, or Landmark West! and I await their reply.

Having done my good deed (really?!), I was then off to The Central Park. Oh, by the way, when the park was devised, that was the formal title of it - The being the defining element. Just like it's supposed to be The Fifth Avenue as well.

Enough! Off to the park - and once I walk down the W. 77th Street entrance road, and off down a path to the left, I see one of my most favorite trees:

I haven't given it a nick-name, although you might say it's crying out for one: The Lazy Tree? or The Lounging Tree? Maybe that last is appropriate for this Sunday, for I will certainly find many loungers out and about!

Look down, across the early autumn leaves, and on this day, and no doubt on many of the days to come, one can see the truth in Albert Camus' statement that "Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower." Ahh, yes.

The Newly Clad Bridge to the Rambles - and more

Yes, a day for lounging, but not for just lazing around. I had places to go, perhaps people and animals to meet, and certainly things to see. First on my list was the bridge to the Rambles.

There's the lake, and I marvel at the sheer number of people! No, I don't feel pressed, or pressured by all the people. I'm just impressed again on how good a job the Central Park Conservancy has done. Where people 30 years ago would NEVER go, everyone does now!

Look at that! The bridge never looked so fine; look too at the wooden planking. Such are the wonders of the Park; when once you "know" it, the Conservancy revitalizes it and inspires people to marvel at the world around them.

To be involved in the Park is really the goal of the designers, among whose intentions was that when people enter the park they deliberately - and by design it's almost subtle - leave the city. I mean, where else would it be possible to -

- row under a bridge as blithely as if you were walking in the park. Of course, not everything is perfect, for the water quickly becomes too shallow for their venture,

- and they have to back themselves out!

But I just keep on walking.

After crossing the bridge, I see a wonderful path up the hillside. In fact, I recognize that the path has been totally resurfaced. Lovely. And close by - another more rustic path, back toward the water.

I do feel I'm in the country, but not too wild a country; this is somewhere people have been, and by the fineness of the path I can deduce that people love this land. People are interested in my enjoying it too. There's a sense of community here, here in The Central Park.

I look down to the bridge once again, before I go deeper into the Ramble.

As I walk toward the top of that hill, I find a path going off to my right - and a bridge - another bridge! - seems to rise up out of the path. Beautiful. Let's to and look over, and down.

There's a man approaching - and walking quite purposely it seems. Let's see him go through.But I can't see him. Once again, the brilliance of the designers of the Park have outwitted me, and have preserved privacy, have limited my view, but have enhanced the wilderness feeling that sometimes tricks me into believing I'm not really in New York. Hmm. Where did he go?

There he goes! And he seems to be even further away than I would have expected. Curious, very curious.

Well, I'm off into the woods. Now, you have to realize I'm skipping much - and some of you who have been this way will question my choice of route, but: I ask you. Who is really choosing your route when you freely wander in the Central Park? You? Not really. It's a combination of your will, your unconscious, and the designers of the Park. As they say in so many twelve-step programs - and don't forget, the Park is one of the easiest and least expensive sessions for mental therapy that exist: let go and let God. Well, and also let Olmstead, Vaux, and the skilled foreman of the gardeners, Ignaz Pilat, have their way with you.

In fact, hired first for only $1.50 per day as a foreman, Ignaz Pilat, educated in Botany at the University of Vienna, told Olmstead, who was the Superintendent of the Park, that "to occupy the position of a mere foreman ... is far from being grateful to my feelings." Three years later he was the chief gardnener. It is to him perhaps that we should tender our thanks and offer our appreciation; for it was he who supervised the shaping of slopes and arrangement of boulders, the trenching, fertilizing and planting of lawns, as well as the selection, placement, and transplanting of trees and shrubs. (Rosenzweig & Blackmar, "The Park and the People," p. 172)

Just imagine. All 26,000 trees, 58 miles of paths, almost 9000 benches, 36 unique bridges, over just 843 acres with 7 bodies of water all supplied by the city water system, all over, under and around hills and trees that Ignaz Pilat and his mostly German gardeners fabricated according to what was largely Calvert Vaux's plan. (Even though Olmstead gets most of the credit, and may certainly deserve it for most of the other parks he helped make, Vaux was the main designer of Central Park.)

So, a fun Sunday in the Park.

Look! Another explorer! He hasn't far to go, but he's venturing into a cove - for the heck of it. Just the thing to do on a lazy sunny afternoon.

A pup waits and watches while his (or her?) masters meander for a moment. But I'm at the other edge of the park, and almost, I think, near the edge.

But what's that in the tree?

It was moving, but a raccoon was climbing around a tree! Just a hundred yards or less from the East drive - and, in fact, he was the second one I saw that afternoon. (The first one was impossible to catch on camera.) So, all kinds of critters in the Park Sunday!

So, not too far to walk now - there's the drive!

- which means it can't be far to Fifth Avenue. It is a wonderful day - everyone is out, walking, biking, and, of course, running.

Slowly, carefully, I cross the drive.

The grand apartments on The Fifth Avenue! I've made it - again, of course. I've done this walk many, many times; but each time is different. I can't wait to do it again!

What are the Chances for our Yankees?

2009-09-29T12:13:00.013-04:00

I have a strong feeling that this could be the year - yes indeed, money talks nobody walks and the Steinbrenners' (sic) Yankees will prove the power of the purse in last winter's off-season with a commanding surge through October. Look at this:

(photo by Mike Segar/Reuters)

Here you see Mariano Rivera celebrating the Yankee's 100th victory of the season with catcher Jose Molina and first baseman Mark Teixeira, left. They completed a three game sweep of the notorious Boston Red Sox, and secured the home field advantage. And some home field it is this year!
This isn't a shot taken during a Yankees game, but during the ceremonies of the graduation of thousands of students from New York University - which is why there's so much purple! But those of you who remember the old Yankee Stadium - "the house that Ruth built" in 1923, which is just across 161st Street. How close is it? Well, just look:
The old stadium is on the left, and the new on the right - with the elevated portion of the IRT number 4 subway coursing right along beside them. There was, as many of you may remember, some controversy about why a new one had to be built, replacing a very popular Macombs Dam Park, but promises were made that other parks would be built to supplement the neighborhood. And, what to do with the old stadium?

According to the department of parks, demolition is begun, and should be completed some time in 2010. There will be community playgrounds and softball fields in its place.

But one thing was taken from it that may bring good luck to our Yankees:
This was the little sign that all Yankees would touch before going on to the ball field as a wish for good luck; with the permission of the New York Yankees, Derek Jeter now has the sign. Let's hope it will bring them luck in the new stadium!

So, it's come down to the question: so, if they're now with the home field advantage in the play-offs, who - do you think? - will they eventually play in the World Series? After all, the old Yankee Stadium hosted 37 World Series, more than any other baseball stadium (they won 26, more than any other team). And the Yankees, with Babe Ruth, not only won their first game in their new stadium - against Ruth's old team, the Red Sox, but won the World Series that year in their new stadium.

But this year, of course, the Red Sox are out of it. Maybe. (That old wild-card thing, I'm afraid.) Yet perhaps a new rivalry will begin: what's happening with the Phillies!?

On August 22 I gave a special tour (special for me) for a bus load of Phillies Phans who came in from Reading Pennsylvania. Two hours, said the leader, Chris Huey, is all they want, because they're anxious to see their team, and their ace hitter Ryan Howard and the pitcher Pedro Martinez would do against the Mets. Quite an enthusiastic group!
Here they are down around Battery Park City, taking pictures of the Statue of Liberty - and looking quite pleased to be in the Big Apple if I do say so myself. So, I provided a good tour for my Phillies Phans, but I had to ask them just how confident they were in their team this year. I stopped one particularly enthusiastic gentleman to ask him that question.

He had no doubt the Phillies would prevail:
He feels he has plenty of room for more! We shall see, my friend, we shall see ..... if we have a Turnpike Series!

September Already?

2009-09-25T18:05:00.021-04:00

I don't think I was prepared for this. School has begun - but I should have known! I saw the ad hoc conferences happening on Labor Day. They were so serious. I knew I should have paid more attention.

But, well, I was riding my bike too, and checking out the very last day of summer to see what was happening - in Tudor City, for example.
Pretty quiet there alright ... green, peaceful ... reposed even. But I did meet one interesting fellow at work there, Jeffrey, a driver for London Town Car, waiting for his client.

Oh, we talked seriously about what his job is like, but, really, it was a day for riding the bike!

Yes, Labor Day was quite a bright and pleasant day - and as you'll see Second Avenue was virtually empty - smooth sailing all the way downtown to -
- and East Village ice cream shop where mother and daughter are both having a sweet treat on such a lovely day. Oh, I'll be some of you out there are wondering what this blog is about! "Are you going to get serious, oh Street Teacher, and tell us some arcane historical fact?"

Nope! Not today! I was just going downtown of an afternoon to get a little - coffee from Mud.

Yup, that's the name of the place, just to the east of 2nd Avenue as I came across, so I locked my bike up, and walked right up to the counter and asked the barristas for a cup of - coffee! (Really? You thought I ask for a cup of mud? No, no, not me! It's really good there, you see.)

Yes, those are tattos on my friendly barrista - this is the East Village after all.

It is still an interesting neighborhood after all these years, since I last ran down to see my friends on St. Marks Place, one block down, between 1st and Avenue A, one block over toward Tompkins Square Park. Yes, perhaps there are some of those people still here.

But what's always remarkable about the Village, and especially the East Village, being so close to NYU and Cooper Union, is that the young people never seem to leave.

So, as I sat there sipping my strong coffee, I overheard one "young" person talking to her friend about all their friends in common; and I don't think I heard anything especially remarkably different from what I would hear anywhere else.

But then they left and a young man sat down to talk to another young man. I almost assumed they were both students. But the first one began to say something very intersting:
After taking a slurp of his smoothie he mentioned how relaxing it was to be away from the wife - "you know how much I love her, but it's great to just be able to go out and chill - you know?"
Right?

Well, I suppose things don't really change all that much! Which is one of the wonderful things about that part of the East Village - formerly known as just the northern part of the greater Lower East Side.

What we know now as the Lower East Side, however, namely that area East of The Bowery and below Canal Street, where Richard Price's book "Lush Life" is based, is changing quickly and soon will have progressed beyond what my friends of 30 years ago on St. Marks could have seen. Their old neighborhood is just a little busy, just as always, and now becoming a little cleaned up - but retains all the funkiness that I used to know.

I will create a blog soon more about what this neighborhood was when it was Kleine Deutschland, or Little Germany, but not yet. I'm still on my Labor Day bike ride.
And I see kayaks in the East River on the way up and back home! Now, those people know how to enjoy a holiday!

Not Always New York ...

2009-08-28T14:39:00.043-04:00

Yes, at times one must get away, and "re-charge" one's batteries; get a breathe of "fresh" air; or simply just see somewhere else so that New York doesn't take up the entire canvas of one's life. So, Jake, my son, suggested that we take a trip again up to the White Mountains and Mt. Washington.

Again? Well, I think the first time we both went up Mt. Washington was ... let me think ... 1995? Yes, a while ago! I was excited and even surprised that Jake suggested it, because I don't think I ever thought of him as a hiker-type person - although at 10 years old he did very well for himself back then!

So we arranged to meet in Portland, at the airport there, because he drove up the previous Friday to see a couple of friends from college. I took Jet Blue - and boy, it took a while for that plane to get off the ground! I think the pilot said there would be a delay because, and I quote, the ground crew put the fuel in the wrong hole. Ah, what?!

But, I got there, and off we go to New Hampshire!

Our first night would be at the Joe Dodge Lodge at Pinkham Notch. We were assigned a private room, with a bunk bed for two. Although there was no airconditioning, and it certainly was hot and humid in the valley (which still was just less than 3000 feet elevation), once we slowed down, I was sure we'd be comfortable enough.

Meals are served communally at the Appalachian Mountain Club lodges but Jake certainly seemed hungry enough - but maybe a little too hot!

Everyone tries to help each other at these lodges, and so I wasn't surprised when one of the servers demonstrated her sympathy to Jake:

We got a decent sleep that night, almost in spite of the heat and humidity - we're so spoiled with city airconditioning, but we managed.

After the hearty buffet breakfast, we were off onto the trail at ... 740am. Certainly bright and early for us New Yorkers. The trail beckoned:
This is called the Tuckerman Ravine Trail. We're going to take it to the junction with the Lion's Head Trail, and until then we will be under timberline - but it would only be for about half the length of the trail. According to the trail map the whole trail for us from Pinkham to the top of Mt. Washington was about 4.2 miles, which would take us 4 hours 15 minutes. No problem!

It proved very early to be a very beautiful morning - with quite a lot to marvel over and admire. Here's Jake now, I thought: resting already?

It's not as though we had miles to go before we sleep - although that was true - but really, we took our time!

For those of you who aren't familiar with the White Mountains, or New England for that matter, one constant up there in the mountains is the weather. I first became acquainted with the Whites when I was at camp in Vermont. We would climb Mt. Washington in July - and every time we'd be in the clouds! In the rain, wind, and stumbling all over rocks - but we had the greatest time!

So, I've since discovered that August is the best time for a hike like this - and thunderstorms were in the forecast!

Here we are ... and I must admit I look at little peaked - but, I plead that it was hot and humid. That's my claim and I'm sticking to it.

We continued on after a little break.

Jake and I are getting up there, at least a little bit, for we can now see down the trail behind us. Soon ....
Yes, soon we'll be on the ridge and walking in the breeze - maybe even a wind! It will be cooler soon!

We can see Hermit Lake and the Shelter down in Tuckerman's Ravine. We are getting up there indeed!

This sign announced to us that we were entering the Alpine Zone - we were officially above timberline! And more than half the way to the summit. Here's were the fun begins - and where the true photos can begin to be taken.

I relax

(to be continued ...)

To the Summit and Beyond!

Yes, this is Part Two of my Mt. Washington climb with Jake, my son. And, yes, I know: it's not about New York - but it is about walking! That's the theme here - so read on.

You see, once above timberline the world is different. Breeze, clear skies, and views - well! What to see?

Jake ascends to the top of Lion's Head

We no longer watch for a clear trail through trees or brush, but, as Jake sagely points out, we look for those rocks on which the lichen has been "stepped" away. And, of course, the piles of rocks strategically place - the cairns - which, in the normal cloudy environment, would be invaluable.

But, no clouds for us!

The Headwall of Tuckerman's Ravine

We look down into Tuckerman's Ravine. We could have taken the Headwall trail, but I preferred the extended view from the top. But look at that slope: that's where skiers go - and they have to carry their skis up this trail in the snow! What am I complaining? No - yet, as a skier, would I like to take that plunge? Hmm.....

We continue on toward the junction of the Tuckerman trail with ours, which would then leave us only about .4 mile from the summit. It's really smooth sailing now.

The first part of our climb, along the Tuckerman Trail, however, is called in the AMC Guidebook a "moderate but relentless climb," so if you should consider this trip for your summer vacation - keep that in mind! As you can see here, the "uphill" part of that climb is now accentuated on the Lion's Head Path and the final stage of the Tuckerman Trail. One must rest!

We had met some climbers earlier, but not more than two, I think. We were getting close to the summit now, so I expected to see some early climbers beginning their descent - but although I expected to see at least one, I was pleased to finally see a four-footed hiker!
I had seen other, smaller dogs on some of my previous hikes, and often they were hiking with their own little packs. This one travels light, however - and although I didn't ask the young lady I suspect this isn't the first mountain for her pet.
Jake gave a holler: "Not hikers!" He could see valley people, so we were getting real close; you get so close to the mountain the summit disappears, so any sign of its approach used to bring a shout among the leaders in my summer camp groups - when we hiked in July and invariably in the clouds. This time wasn't so mysterious of course, but it was nice to hear - we were ahead of the guide's schedule.
I had to admit to some surprise on reaching these stairs - is this "mountain climbing"? Well, at the top of the stairs was the parking lot and all the people whose heads Jake had seen over the rocks - we were getting very close to the summit

The summit of Mt. Washington has witnessed the highest recorded wind speed on earth (a gust of 231 mph clocked on Mount Washington on April 12, 1934* [see note at bottom]), and is frequently cited as the host to the world's worst weather, but August at least for me has always brought me my best experiences on the mountain and the clearest weather. Oh, and I made it too!We had reached the summit at about 11:30am, having left the base at Pinkham Notch at 7:40 with the expectation of reaching the summit in 4 hours 15 minutes, according to the AMC guide book, I was pleased that without rushing at all we had made it fully 25 minutes ahead of schedule!

So, we stopped at the mountain for about an hour, just enough time for Jake to have a bowl of chili, another bowl of clam chowder, crackers and a drink - I just had a bowl of chili and a drink - and to just chill out.

It's always a clash of cultures at the top: people who came by car and people who came by the world's oldest cog railway. The engines used to be all steam, but now only the first one of the day is steam; all the others now run on biodiesel.

We were ready to finish up the day's hiking at about 12:30pm, and hike the remain 1.4 miles, or 40 minutes, to our lodging for the evening at the Lakes of the Clouds Hut.
Jake looks down the path toward the Lakes of the Clouds hut - the light spot on the side of the ridge. Sited on the west side of the ridge, at 5050 feet above sea level, it is the highest hut in the White Mountains, and one of two (the other being the Madison Hut) above timber line.

We raced down! There were still clouds about, but the wind blew them over and away. Looking at the trail Jake is on I'm sure you'll agree that I'm right to call it a relative highway!

We were soon close to the Hut.

As we walked I remembered that this was the way Jake and I had first arrived at the Hut, back in 1995, I think; but it was different now. We had come up a different and more challenging yet rewarding way, and were there pretty early in the day so, as Jake had said the night before, he could finish his book in the leisure time before dinner. We shall see ....

And, here was one lake - but let's get into the hut and lay our stuff down. I was thinking of cooling my feet in the cold water of the lake - just what I felt they needed.

We entered the hut, and Jake, more enterprising than I would have thought, went to the desk and checked us in and found the room we would sleep in. For some reason I can't recall I didn't take a picture of that room - maybe it was too dark and bright - too many shadows, with the bright light from the windows? Anyway, it was as I remembered it, triple and quadruple bunks with army blankets and pillow; ladders to the top. I took a bottom bunk for sure.

The common area was bright, woody, and welcoming - lots of windows!

While Jake put his stuff under his bunk and got his book out, I changed into my bathing suit - heck: it's been hot, I'm warm, it just might be really refreshing to get some water on me. After all, and Jake wasn't happy when I told him this in New York, there are no showers at the Lakes of the Clouds. So, I went out to the Lake. (I lost track of Jake for the moment.)

As I approached the lake, I thought I saw someone on a rock. That's good, I thought. Someone to trade stories with. Let's see ...

Well! A swimmer! This is good news. So, I talked to these men, and asked them why they don't get in themselves. Hmm. Various stages of ... chicken? Not quite ready?

Others seem curious - look! Yes, indeed, the water was really nice and comfortable. Everyone who was there began to get into the swim of things - did I just say that? Oh, well, one gets carried away, I guess. Just look! There's a guy here swimming all the way across the lake!
Global warming? Well, maybe so, but years ago this lake provided drinking water for the hut. Thank goodness they have drilled a well for water now.
Jake has abandoned his book, and is in the center, above, in the dark bathing suit with white stripe at his waist. It was a delightful afternoon.

Dinner was the usual communal madness, with everyone getting to know their neighbors and trading stories of hikes and nights in various huts. Some are taking 8 nights in a hut - one in each one. Most seem to be taking two nights in huts, so we, with just one, seem positively like city folk.
We had a great time, and even won the clean-and-stacked plate contest so that we could get the first cut of the Special Dessert - a cake baked in the shape of the Lakes of the Clouds hut! Silly? Certainly! And, oddly enough, this big piece fed all of us!

Even though it was a little warm that night, even with the windows open wide, we both slept well - and were awakened delightfully at 6:30 to the sound of a guitar strumming and a soft male voice singing in the hallway outside our doors. Ahh, just like home ... not!

We were ready to go at 8:00 sharp - and off we went!

The morning was cooler, and there were clouds blowing over the summit, but we had clear hiking all the way that morning.
Here I'm showing you all Tuckerman's Ravine from the other side - I'm pointing to where we hiked the day before; above my head and a little to the right is the summit of Mt. Washington.

I spread a split rock apart, and Jake monitors the trail - we're comfortable with the mountain. We've adopted it!

The rest of the trail is with even better views than the day before, because more of it is above timberline.

There's one more brief installment - so stay tuned - and then I'm back to New York and the walking I do there.

We're soon below timberline - but not before more spectacular views appear. For almost the last time, we see the headwall of Tuckerman's Ravine before Jake leads me below timberline to the forest below. Will this be the end of the views?

Not quite, see?

But it's considerably more cluttered with undergrowth and overgrowth as we plot through the branches and over the rocks to reach the bottom. And lo, and behold, just as we needed one at the top, so too have the trailcrews installed another to help us down:
When I did this path before (in ah, 1963) there was no ladder. So, the trails are considerably more "civilized" these days, and even though we have seen but one couple so far coming up that path, I believe that most trails in the Presidential Range of the Whites are similarly "accessible."

Almost at the bottom now! Here is the Crystal Cascade:

Just a short walk from here and we're back at Pinkham, and off in the car for ... The Mount Washington Hotel at Bretton Woods! Talk about a karmic change!

Well, not exactly roughing it any more, are we? But I thought we got a decent TravelZoo deal, including the pool and a four course dinner so, there we are - and Jake hits the pool - and we both have the meal ... but the enthusiasm of all the walkers at dinner at the Lakes was so much more!

AND we didn't need to wear a jacket up there!

But, as we used to say at camp oh, so many years ago: all in all we had a great time!
_______________
* FOOTNOTE: According to the Mt. Washington Observatory: The anemometer used on Mount Washington in 1934, known as the Number 2 Heated Anemometer, was tested in 1933 in two National Bureau of Standards wind tunnels, creating a calibration curve that allowed the Observers to calculate the wind speed immediately. After the record wind of April 1934, the anemometer was retested, to determine if there had been any change in the performance of the instrument since the earlier tests. The second tests indicated that the rotor was turning slightly slower (generally less than 3%) than in the first set of tests. This means that if past records were corrected on the basis of the second tests, the true wind velocities computed for the record would be somewhat higher than previously claimed. It was recommended by the U.S. Weather Bureau that it would be both conservative and best for future observations to be calculated from the original calibration data.

A Reunion of Little Italy in East Harlem

2009-08-25T14:13:00.048-04:00

Oh, boy it's been a busy month! I've been away for a week, and the week before that was busy - but I am now going to show you what I was up to on August 9th - finally.

First, I must tell you in case you're unaware, that for all the talk of Little Italy down on Mulberry Street, the Italian Community of East Harlem in the first half of the twentieth century, on into the early sixties, was one of the largest Italian communities in the entire nation. From 104th Street all the way north beyond 116th Street, from 2nd Avenue to the East River, the city was Italian.

Although most Italians have moved out to Long Island, Westchester, or New Jersey, many still come back for the Dance of the Giglio. "The what?"

The Giglio Society of East Harlem was formed in 2000 to bring back a tradition that had been formed in Italy in the 1880s to celebrate the Miracle of Sant' Antonio in Brusciano, Italy, who apparently, to the faithful, cured a young boy of a terrible illness.

In 2000, after a 29 year hiatus, during which time many of the resident Italians moved away to Long Island, New Jersey, and elsewhere, the Dance of the Giglio was brought back to East Harlem, and has been here ever since. Just as there are three Festivals of the Giglio in Italy, so are there three in the New York area: the largest in Williamsburg, Brooklyn; in East Harlem, and a third in Massapequa, Long Island. (None, however, is as large as the one in Nola, which celebrates the return of their citizens from slavery in Northern Africa, where 8 giant giglia are built and danced; there are six done in Brusciano.) At right is an earlier one in East Harlem.

So, while there may be less than 1000 Italians still living in East Harlem, there are 300 members - the Giglio Boys (and Girls!) - of the Giglio Society of East Harlem who come every year now to build the Giglio and celebrate. Let's see what they did!

I ran up along the East River to Thomas Jefferson Park, at E. 112th Street, and up to the center of all the action: Pleasant Avenue and E. 114th Street - where Rao's is (see my earlier post!) - and saw that I was early for the "first lift." (I'll explain soon!) Everyone was crowding around, eating, talking - many Italian/Americans of all ages.

But it didn't seem too crowded. I walked around to see what was happening.

Everybody was chatting, just strolling around, buying and eating food ... and I realized, having been around this neighborhood before over the past 15 years, that most of these people are not from around there at all! At least not any more - and that's the glory of it all.

All of them seem to come to the neighborhood to remake the relationships they had when growing up around there, or to maintain a tradition their parents or grandparents had when they were part of that vital Italian community earlier in the twentieth century.

But - where was this "Giglio"?! Right there - on the left of the picture above on the left - as if it wasn't important, yet. Everyone has to mingle and talk first. And, browse among the vendors. Like this fellow, who is selling hand-rolled cigars of virtually any size. I almost bought one, you know, to ah, support local vendors ... but I held the urge in check and didn't indulge.

I walked down toward First Avenue on 114th Street, to see how things may have developed since I'd last spent time there. I saw that the little garden the community developed out of an empty pair of lots - on 115th as well as on 114th street - have been really nicely planted and decorated.

Actually, I was really impressed, for the prospect of their church, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel (which is next to the National Museum of Catholic Art and History on East 115th Street) is now really quite impressive - and seems to be even closer to its heritage.

I thought it was wonderful that the community, as small as it is now, could manage to create this wonderful view. But, I now know, just as the Italians may have moved out and left but a few - about a 1000 - remaining, the prevailing Hispanic community is now an interested and devoted part of the Mt. Carmel community.

I walked through this green space. There are other places in Manhattan who have recovered vacant lots with a lot of energy and imagination, but this one seems blessed with just what your real estate agent would cite: location, location, and location. The residents also grow vegetables here, I believe.

I spotted two under a tree, involved in their own conversation, and not yet involved in the festivities that were just beginning. So, as long as people can find places and occasions to meet other people, and of course we think this city is so busy, loud, and crowded, don't you think there's always hope for the future?

And so I then walked across 115th Street - because, you know, I've never been to the church when people were in it - and I've never seen except on video what a true festival of the Giglio was. I walked up the steps of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.

Yes! Something is indeed happening!

The church was full - the band was marching, and playing, and everyone was standing and taking pictures and talking - and the priest was in the procession too.

Everything was beginning!

The crowd proceeded behind the band to the steps and outside - I could feel the enthusiasm growing.

The ceremonial "collection/donation" figure was just outside the front, awaiting everyone. Notice the necklace of dollar bills descending from his neck!

Everything was about to begin. The musicians were descending the steps, and the Giglio Boys were beginning to mass together. One of them seemed really excited about the music - and I asked him if he was "ready?"

"I'm pumped! I've got this music on tape - I play it in my sleep!"

Yes, the First Lift is scheduled for 2 o'clock. What this means is that the Dance of the Giglio is actually a series of lifts - and bounces, or "dances" along the route from its location on Pleasant Avenue, to the front of the Church and back.

Now, everyone is here! See the brown-shirted "Giglio Boys"? They're just getting ready!
The Giglio itself is more than 65 feet high, and although made with paper mache it's not light by any means. It will take more than 100 men to lift it - and a leader, who rotates among the more veteran of the community from lift to lift - and to get it going in the right direction. And the band will be perched on it - and the singer will sing!

Now I know the picture looks a little crooked - but when you look closely, under the yellow-shirted singer and his band, you will see that they're yet to be lifted. The Giglio boys are but gathering around ... soon ... there will be the lift.

Right now the band is getting themselves comfortable ...

And as you can see, below left, some of the ah, bigger Giglio Boys are important when the lift finally happens!

The band and the singer begin their songs, and the lift progresses to the dance and it moves on toward the Church, where it all began.

But, not alone!

As you see below, one of the rotating leaders gives instructions, coordinating the lift, so that it just doesn't come plummeting down. Very very important position, a leader is ....

This isn't some "stock" photo. No, this is what this year's Giglio really looked like on August 9. In full lift, and moving - at times moving up and down, or "dancing" in joy - to and from the Church of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.

Certainly quite a sight! And, don't forget, this was only the last day of a five day festival!

As I said, people come from miles around for this event. Even three generations of family - often bringing one who doesn't quite "get it," but, you know, it's "family."

So, for example, I met this family.

From left to right is Bill's grandmother, in her nineties, who used to live on E. 104th St.; Bill's wife and Bill; and Bill's mother. Bill Koldys lives in Connecticut but drove down on their way to, well, another venue for Sunday dinner.

But his grandmother was still angry with Vito Marcantonio, the Representative to congress from the 20th district of East Harlem, from about 1935 to 1950, not because he was a defender of communists but because she claimed he allowed the big tenements to be built between 1st and 2nd Avenues, and 112th and 115th Streets, which, as Jane Jacobs would tell you (in her book "The Death and Life of Great American Cities") did more to destroy neighborhoods.

In a very real, and unstated, and therefore unremembered way, the Dance of the Giglio in East Harlem on August 9th of this year was a kind of rememberance of Marcantonio, for it was on August 9th, 1954, upon exiting the subway at City Hall and Broadway, that Vito Marcantonio fell to the pavement, dead. In fact, Pleasant Avenue is called Vito Marcantonio Boulevard in some maps of East Harlem.

As I often say, Who knew?

A Party on the Hudson River

2009-08-10T18:16:00.025-04:00

Of course, as you all know, the Hudson River is being especially celebrated this year. But last Wednesday I and many friends helped our friend Alison celebrate her birthday on the river - on Pier 66, the Frying Pan barge on the Hudson. (The Frying Pan - the red hulled boat above, next to the barge - was a lightship off of Cape Fear in North Carolina and is now with us on the Hudson.)

The entry way to the Pan is on what must have been a trestle, which still reaks of creosote. We four had been on the same cross town bus, as luck would have it, and could make the march down the trestle-way together. Alison's in the black, and behind Janet as Annie leads the way.

I arranged for us to get there at about 5:30 so that we would have plenty of time to get enough room for our gathering on the top deck - the poop, as it were - of the barge. We had plenty of space!

What could be more inviting? And we were the first ones there, and able to arrange tables and chairs to our convenience. Ah, the luxury!

Janet exults! What a glorious evening!

It was a beautiful evening, and Alison welcome us all to her river and her city! What better place, she seems to be saying.

No, none better!

We weren't the only ones on the river that night, of course. We could look over the railing and see - a kayaker! Who says the water can't be fun?

But, one of the sights in the river seemed out of place - a waterwheel?!

Finally others came, and in fact two had come on time but had taken Alison's directions a little too literally and had been since 5:30 on the top deck of the actual Frying Pan itself! No problem, no matter. They are fully arrived - and as you can see enjoying themselves immensely!

Now, it may seem that I'm completely outnumbered by women at this gala affair. So, it may seem - but my male cohort was reinforced by two convivial chaps to my right, who seem in quite animated conversation.

Yet ...

On closer examination, there just may be the presence of ... a woman in this small colloquoy.

No problem! There seems to be such a perfect acceptance occurring that who could question the clear affection of all parties involved! Cheers!

Soon, and perhaps all too soon, it came time for us to depart, and leave the convivial maritime seats of the "Pan" for a jaunt to the High Line. After all, Alison hasn't seen it, and a few others of our group were also "High Line Virgins."

We marched out to our destiny.

This community, of both the High Line and the new Hudson River Park, with the glorious venue of the Frying Pan, have become quite vibrant venues. Certainly better than the dirty streets and corner lots of thirty years ago! Bah!

Annie seems the first to arrive at the High Line - and let's wonder: how long before the developers find Tenth Avenue and this sight disappears? Let's gaze toward the Empire State.

I know many of you have and seen my earlier blogs on the High Line, so there may only be a few pictures this time - but even your intrepid blogger learns something new each time he comes! Look, I'm advised: there's the High Line Singer!

I beg your pardon?

Yes, indeed, and we look. She's getting her "act" ready - too bad we have a dinner reservation!

Will wonders ever cease? No, but sometimes we do have to walk on, we have blocks to go, and a dinner to eat ....

Still, a glorious spot. A place to savor, and, frankly, a wonder to behold.

And you know what? It's just a small part of New York! There's more! Just you wait - for the next blog!

The Hudson River - the Site and Reason for Great Celebrations this year

2009-07-30T17:07:00.006-04:00

Dear Lovers of New York,

This past month began with some fresh air, and some clear “bangs” on the West side because the July 4th festivities were moved from the East River over to the Hudson - back where they belong. (Some East Siders objected.) Although, to be fair, the stated reason was to honor the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s journey up the river that is still sometimes referred to as - North River.

Why “North River”? That’s what the Dutch called it; and by the way not simply because, as some would say, that’s the river you take when you go “north,” just as the East River is the river you would take if you wanted to go East, but (and here’s news for some) because they called what we know now as the Delaware River the South River because it was at the southern edge of their New Netherland claim.

But did you know that this year New York State hosts a whole series of celebrations - of three, not just one, great events?

1.) Okay, the first is Henry Hudson’s arrival and sail up the river;

2.) The second, which happened almost simultaneously, was Samuel Champlain’s discover of his body of water;

3.) The third is the successful sailing of another boat up the river: Robert Fulton’s steamship, in 1809

What are we doing to celebrate? Check these out!

River Day! New York Harbor and Hudson Valley-(June 5-13) (Oops, done!)

Festival of Nations and Crown Point Historic Site Opening-Lake Champlain (September 19)

Governors Island Dutch Festival-New York City (September 13)

Walkway-Over-the-Hudson Grand Opening-Poughkeepsie (October 3)

Maybe we can make it to some of these celebrations - I know I will make the Governors Island Dutch Festival. How about you?
And, note this: the Walkway Over The Hudson is - get this - the longest walkway in the world!

The Lazy Blogger Returns!

2009-07-29T20:20:00.025-04:00

Oh, boy, have I been delinquent! But, the 21st was my birthday ... and I went with my friends to Rao's this past Monday evening ... and it felt like a reward and a relief from all this heat!

I gave a tour this past Saturday to two lovely young couples from Des Moines, Iowa (just in case you don't know where that lovely city is, my urban friends). My last two tours have been very fortunate with the weather, so we had an even more extensive walk this week.

Here are Jessica, Tom, Brent and Christa near Madison Square. Quite the cool crew!

This was summer, and a marvelously green day it was. We even saw some people exercising in the park - but in a way not common in Des Moines:

These people are doing Tai Chi - and that's an exercise that would be more expected in Chinatown - but this practice has a lot of avid practitioners all over.

We had met at their hotel, the Marriott Courtyard on W. 40th Street, between 6th Avenue and Broadway, and by this time had walked through Grand Central, and, having just missed a bus - clever, aren't I? - we walked down Lexington Avenue, and over to Madison Square.

I told my guests that occasionally there have been quite unusual exhibitions of artwork there in Madison Square. In fact, last November, the Japanese artist Tadashi Kawamata erected tree huts in the park. What!? Tree "huts"?

Yes, indeed. Just like this:

And this shot makes the water tower in the distance look just like another tree hut - another work of art! And, it is, isn't it?

We walked down Broadway, and over to Gramercy Park. This photo is a little bit of a trick -
because I took through the bars. As many of you know, this is an unusual public park: it's gated and for the use only of those who live around the park and have keys to the gate. There you have it. The ultimate in exclusivity.

Lexington Avenue, which we had left to go to Madison Square, ends right at Gramercy Park, but seems to continue beyond, to the south, in Irving Place. We walked down that street, and visited Pete's Tavern for a short moment.

At the corner of E. 18th St. and Irving Place, Pete's touts itself both as the oldest continually operating bar in town, beginning in the 1860's (but McSorley's, beginning in 1854 is older, although the Bridge Cafe is truely the oldest "surviving tavern," as they say, having been established in 1794), and as the place where O'Henry wrote The Gift of the Magi in one of the booths. But, it's also possible that he wrote that story as he may have done many of his works in just about any bar! He was quite a convivial drinker!

But we were walking, thank you very much, and after our brief visit to the conveniences of Pete's we walked on over to the Union Square Farmer's Market.

And a beautiful sunny day provided ample opportunity for many farmers, from all over, to display their goods. People come from all over - and even Danny Myer of the Union Square Cafe and the Gramercy Tavern nearby gets his restaurants' vegetables from the market just as you would.

But what struck me as the funniest thing was the fact that in spite of the fact that this farmers' market is open four days a week, and has been for I think over twenty years, there is still a Whole Foods market on 14th Street right across from Union Square! You just never know ....

So, we all then finally got into the coolness of the number 4 train right below the market at Union Square and sped non stop to City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge and walked through St. Paul's - and finally to what's my favorite stop downtown in the fair weather warm months: Stone Street for lunch!

Tom knew immediately we were in the right place!

We had a wonderful respite from the heat, some of us had beer, others soda, as we discussed just what it is like to live in a "big city."

In fact, Tom, Jessica, and Brent had come from towns with less than 1000 people; Christa was the city girl, coming from a town of more than 3000. Brent grew up on a farm, even.

Maybe that explains why suddenly he just ups and walks ... away ... down past all the other tables ... exploring? looking for the fields? .....

But he finally comes back!

And so we're off, and we proceed up to Greenwich Village, and take a hike up the High Line -
and, wow! Has that become popular!

Jessica and Christa examine the choice picture they just took of .... who?

The day's tour is almost over - but the most amazing thing happened so surprisingly I was completely caught off guard and didn't think to take a picture.

While we were walking along the Hudson River Park, at about 25th Street, I hear someone say: "No way!" Way?

Yes, right there on the path, on bicycles even, were friends of my four Iowans from Iowa! Right there, by the river, in the Big City of New York!

Who would have thought!?

The Gansevoort Street Fair for the High Line!

2009-07-13T18:27:00.025-04:00

It was quite a sunny day, Sunday July 12. We started our walk and tour of the city where I met the Everson family, at the Marriott Residence Inn on Sixth Avenue. We walked through Bryant Park and Grand Central Terminal, and bussed ourselves down to Gramercy Park before we went all the way down to Stone Street for lunch.

Stone Street, an outdoor festival of dining all its own, downtown below Wall Street

We left downtown and the Wall Street area and took the number 1 train from its gloriously renovated station at South Street - now all doors open! - and traveled uptown to Greenwich Village. For my family from Cary, North Carolina, I walked them down Charles Street so that they could see that not everyone lives in a big apartment building!

This charming concoction of a home was originally a sort of "back house" up on York Avenue and 71st Street that, in about 1970, was purchased by the owner of this little corner of Charles and Greenwich Streets and brought down by truck. Recently, the original owner sold it, and the new one refurbished and expanded it, but in the original "style," so that his family could be more comfortable. Charming! And with a driveway and front lawn!

We continued up Greenwich Street - toward the special event I had in store for my new friends.

Yes! There was the Gansevoort Street Fair in celebrarion of the opening of the High Line. What a wonderfully colorful event in the Meatpacking District! It gloriously confirmed that the once questionably respectable neighborhood is finally family friendly. Of course, there were some quite curious beings there at the party, as you can see above!

But, some others were more
approachable and seemed quite happy to see us!

I think everyone was really into the event, and the neighborhood certainly seemed ready and willing to embrace such an expression of enthusiasm.

There certainly was plenty to eat, and as this fairgoer seems to be saying: it's hmm-mm good!

There were plenty of orange balloons, but the one below in the left-hand picture belongs to Zach, who is standing behind his brother, Jared, who's looking down and wearing the green shirt, on the right. They were the sons of Paige and Albert Everson, who were here also with Paige's parents - who are momentarily out of sight!

The picture on the right, above, is Jared's and Zach's grandmother and father - I still don't know where the grandfather went! - as they look on at this quite curious event. After all, who expected -

A horse!

So, after our sojourn near the High Line - which we didn't have time to go up because of the sheer numbers of people (there was a line we would have had to wait on). But the Eversons are here all week, so they can return when they like.

We walked across 14th Street to the 8th Avenue subway to board to train to W. 72nd and Central Park West. We saw the glorious sculptures of Tom Otterness on the platform! Here is Zach, with a new hat, a balloon - he's ready to visit Central Park!

Leaving downtown by subway is almost like "changing the channel." We walk into Central Park - and across to Conservatory Water. The peacfulness of the water brought us back to something maybe a little familiar to my family. After all, nearby another North Carolina native made his home ....

Yes, James Buchanan Duke lived at 1 East 78th Street, right there on the corner of 5th Avenue. This is where the famous richest girl in the world, Doris Duke was born. As massive as it is, I remarked to the Eversons, an even larger mansion was razed to create the building that would please the first Mrs. Duke. Ah, what to do!

So this was virtually the end of the day for my Eversons - but for a bus ride down to the John Jay Park and a swim in the pool for the two boys!

No pictures of that from me, for I had to be in the pool - but Paige the mom took a picture of Jared and me! Ah, to swim, in the glorious New York City ....

July 4, 2009 The Fireworks Will be on the Hudson!

2009-07-13T10:08:00.009-04:00

This year's Independence Day Celebration was on the Hudson River - and I decided I would finally go again and see what I could see. And, of course, so did thousands of others as well.

We had gone to 11th Avenue and 52nd Street because, well, I thought we could see something from the bleachers in the ball field there - but, no! No way in! Police usher us up or down 11th Avenue - and most of the crowd was going up. It was about 8 o'clock. So - we walked!

People were carrying beach chairs, and some had already sat themselves down on the sidewalk with their grills and coolers! But not for us! We kept on our way - uptown. Maybe to 72nd Street?

But, boy! It was slow going!

But we finally compromised, and walked down W. 64th Street toward Trump City, and decided to stay on the slight rise that was the curbside - and wait.

The elevated section in the distance is the West Side Highway down from the Riverside Park to West Street - and many are standing there; I guess they were the lucky ones! I should have thought of that.

So, we waited and wondered when the show would finally begin.....

Everyone milled around very politely - and left us with a view - and that was good!

I did get some video of the fireworks - but, alas, it was too much to up-load! I have to edit it, and then I'll give you a little.

Suffice it to say, that day the island tilted toward the west!

The High Line is UP!

2009-06-28T07:49:00.008-04:00

Oh, I went walking Friday. Ever done it? I mean, just go walking ... with a general goal, but you've got time, the weather's good - even your friends are with you on the phone but hundreds of miles away - just walking. A beautiful day ....

I was walking up Waverly Place, then over to West 4th Street, then along Hudson Street - then I saw this:

Yes! I said to myself - life is good!

So, I walked on. Maybe I'll walk through the Meatpacking neighborhood. After all, I was heading up to the Circle Line offices to talk with Mike Duffy, their Port Captain, so that was on the way. But, as often happens, a young lady stopped in front of me, looking at a map. "You know where high line is?" She asked.

Yes! I do!

We walked along W. 13th Street then together. She is from Brooklyn, and was going to meet some of her friends at the "main entrance" to the High Line; I said "Sure! Follow me!" as if I knew where it was ... but I did know where it was, just I have never been there - "You know, this will be my first time too!"
The Meatpacking district has changed so that it is far more attractive than many could have imagined, and the High Line is the grace note that flies over it and takes it to, well, sorry, I can't help it: another level!

We arrived, and my friend took to the steps.

Wow, I thought, this is really nicely done ... I wonder what it will look like above, on the - track bed?

I may be a tour guide, but the element of my life that is excited by guiding is, I think it's called, the explorer gene! I just love finding new places. Even if I'm not the first one there - it's the first for me, so that's exciting.

Just look! It seemed that the new "bed" evoked the past with its rail-like separations. But it was a stylized evocation. Do you see the rising "rail" in the center of the picture on the left? That's a bench! And there are many of them all along the High Line, graceful notes of reminders that afford a peaceful perch for contemplation. The Park Rangers are there too, as if it's another opening day (which was June 9, 2009). And it's not raining.

There is a hotel, already, built over the High Line, but there is much to see as we walk along.

But as I approach the hotel ... do I see a ... model? In the center of this picture to your right ....

Yes! I get closer and I see a long legged beauty posing for a fashion shoot, no doubt, her hair being positioned just so.

But, there's more to see, so rather than wait for her to turn around and wave at me, I walk on! (Ever your intrepid, dedicated blogger ....)

For, I discover, there's another work of art being composed just near by. Let's look.

See? I can get an attractive model willing to pose for me too! This is his first day on the High Line, and everything he's wearing is brand new! Fresh as a new flower, our Park Ranger is, and happy to be here too. In fact, the next day he will be at the pool on E. 77th Street - right next to where I live!

Let's walk on. There is more, and another work of art to be completed ... just up the trail from here ....

A painter applies the extra daubs of paint to make his picture more complete, more evocative of his feelings and perceptions from the high line.

I asked him, of course, if I could take his picture, and he shrugged OK. I understand.

As I walked on, I saw what he was painting, and it was W. 14th Street, right below him. Still, maybe not the Meatpacking district any more, but still busy with business. And, business is good. See?

And I think I'll finish my High Line blog about now with a little meeting I had with more visitors to this new attraction.

I didn't get their names - sorry! - but they were a happy couple, life-long Brooklyn residents, who had come here years ago only for the Homestead Steak restaurant. They now spend their winters in Florida, but ... maybe now ... they'll have more reason to come back to Manhattan! Here they are:

I think they'll be back to the High Line, don't you? After all, it's all good!

The New Museum - on Fathers Day!

2009-06-21T20:38:00.000-04:00

Today my son took me to the New Museum on the Bowery, where I had never been, and we both saw things we could never have imagined. New art: The Generational: Younger Than Jesus. All art by people younger than 34.

But, can you imagine: art as a young woman sleeping under a comforter, on a white bed, among museum visitors? Yes! Thanks to the aid of sleeping pills!

Oh, I'll just post the pictures and let you make of it what you will!

There was also a chair that seemed quite presidential - but what was on the chair was electronic debris: wires, transisters and the like, all as if the entity there had melted away, leaving all that debris as well as a brown liquid-like smear all over the seat! And the flags! What to make of that? We older people may wonder ....!

But then there was, toward the end of the exhibition, on the ground floor, a room full of real debris!

But, let's look closer at those signs on the wall:

"People to People" to Philadelphia

2009-06-20T15:16:00.000-04:00

My jobs as a tour guide can include more than New York. Yesterday I joined a bus load of talented high school students from around the world, who are in residence at Columbia University for a trip to Philadelphia. As part of their ten days at Columbia, these aspiring business students - although not all were convinced that business was their ultimate goal - were to visit Philadelphia to see the National Constitution Center, the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, and other sites as we could fit them in, followed by a short tour of the Campus of the University of Pennsylvania and particularly the Wharton School of Business. I met them under the pedestrian bridge at Columbia at 116th Street and Amsterdam Avenue at 7am - early!

But, there is an even greater significance to this group. These children are all brought together under the auspices of an organization called People to People International. People to People International is dedicated to enhancing cross-cultural communication within each community, and across communities and nations. Tolerance and mutual understanding are central themes. While not a partisan or political institution, PTPI supports the basic values and goals of its founder, President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

I learned that it was founded on September 11, 1956 (exactly 45 years before the fateful 9/11 we all seem to know only too well) by President Eisenhower, who said: "I have long believed, as have many before me, that peaceful relations between nations requires understanding and mutual respect between individuals."

They all came with box breakfasts, and all seemed to have made friends with each other during the week, certainly fulfilling at least one of the purposes of People to People's founder. I soon learned that "all over the world" was almost an understatement. There were three from Macedonia; at least three from South Africa, a number from Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela, China, Taiwan, Latvia - and no doubt other places as well. All spoke English, and although interested in business, really had quite different interests after all.

We congregated in the entry Hall of the National Constitution Center, and I drew their attention to a very interesting "corner": "What Will You Do With Freedom?" Post-it pads and pencils are provided for anyone to post their response - anything from "drive a car," to "protest my grades" were up there!

We visited the University of Pennsylvania later in the afternoon, after lunch and a visit to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall - and a walk to the Betsy Ross House where we saw performers in period costume enacting scenarios from colonial to pre-civil war times. But, for many, the key attraction was Penn, and particularly the Wharton School of Business. In fact, as we got off the bus, a student from Lebanon asked: "Where is it? Can I touch it?"

Really, he has dreamed about Wharton since he was little, he said. Such stuff dreams are made of, right? So, here are some of those dreamers!

I think Benjamin Franklin will look out for them, don't you?!

The Mp3 Experiment 6 - on Roosevelt Island

2009-05-29T17:06:00.000-04:00

One has to take cues from one's children these days, and so when Jake e-mailed me about something he was planning to do on - of all places! - Roosevelt Island last Saturday, well, I just had to check it out. He told me to check out this website first: http://improveverywhere.com/2009/05/18/mp3-experiment-six-full-details/#more-1016. I did.

What to expect? We were all supposed to wear either a red, green, yellow, or blue shirt; we had to download some mysterious mp3 file - "Don't listen to it until it's time!" - and be on Roosevelt Island within a rather large green area on the map ... and then ... at exactly 4pm (our watches should have been synchronized exactly to the world clock on the website) and only then do we push the button on our iPod - and then follow directions! (Stephanie and Jake are above.)

"Hello, I'm Steve."

We weren't supposed to take pictures, because there will be pictures taken by various cameramen around the island - and I couldn't take pictures anyway because my camera was my iPhone and it was already occupied as an iPod sending me "Steve's" directions. "Turn to your left and wave, then right, then above you - wave!"

The island was really just us, although there were a few "normal" people there; mostly us red/blue/yellow/green people. "Sit down and stretch. You will have a lot to do, and we won't want you not to be loose and ready. As you're sitting, touch one sole of your feet with the other - stretch your groin. We want all our groins well stretched." No kidding!

Then - it was almost an hour of "then" following "then"! - we all square danced! With anyone, everyone - whoever was close by - or not close! Some seemed to run across the neighboring basketball court to swirl around with a desirable stranger! Whew!

Yes, Steve was looking out for us. "Now, you've probably tired yourself out a little, so it's time for a 15 second power nap. Lie down, and start napping." We did. Very nice people all around, napping for ... ah 15 seconds only.

We didn't do too many wacky things for a while except listen as we all walked down toward the southern end of the island, below the old hospital's ruins. We were listening to the story of Peters and the wolf - yes, all the boys were named Peter in this story - by way of preparation for our battle with the wolf - finally! - when most of us got inflatable bats or hammers and, after a brief red and blue against green and yellow (I think?! I didn't get my bat!), "Steve" told us all to gang up on the wolf! Yes, the wolf was coming up from the bottom of the island - and my colored (sic) friends beat him up right in front of me.

Then - that was it! Beautiful day, so we went back up whence we came, and had a beer - a pitcher of beer!
All in all we had a good time - but really! This was sort of amazing! The Official Video of this hasn't been released yet - or at least I haven't found it. Maybe it will sneak up on me ....

June 7 - Come Along for a Spring Walk!

2009-05-06T16:21:00.000-04:00

Yes, I've changed the date from the 24th to June 7th - but, still: it's time! It's time for a walk through our neighborhood - even for those of you for whom this particular neighborhood isn't home - no problem! It's only $15 per person, and we're going for a walk on Sunday, May 24, and see what a neighborhood can be.

It's the first Public Tour of the spring season for RunTour/Goodhart Tours, and it is a very simple walk ... perhaps not even a mile long - but it may take time! Yes, there are things to see, people to meet, and even things to do along this little walk. And this little walk will be along the varying neighborhood of East 78th St., from the East River all the way to Central Park.

We shall meet at Beanocchio's, have a jolt of caffeine - or not! to each his or her own! - and then stroll down to the East River and the great complex known now as the Cherokee apartments (see above right). Then we'll stroll down East 78th Street all the way to the end - and to Central Park. There will be a lot to talk about, and alot to see, and even some unusual things to see and certainly a lot of new people to talk to about - about what? You never know!

We'll see some buildings for which I have a personal fondness, and even one with which I have a connection even though I was never there when the connection existed (see the building to the right).

But we will no doubt see much that's new to all of us - even me, for you know, things change all the time in this big city.

We will eventually find our way to the end and to our entry into the great Central Park. We will see one of the greatest blocks, certainly of East 78th Street, just before we enter. We will check out the grandest building on the block, and hear the stories of one great family and one great fortune that has managed to endure. The building is just below:

So, let me know if you'd like to come: it's only $15 per person. E-mail me at Bill@runtour.com, or call me at 917-921-9273, before Saturday, June 6, and I'll put you on the Master List - and I'll expect you at Beano's at 10!

The Neighborhoods Do Change, You Know

2009-05-04T12:50:00.000-04:00

Well, there it is on Prince Street, the site of the Vesuvio Bakery, with signs on the window telling us that they have finally closed. Was it the rent? Did one of the principals die, or move away? Is this another example of the family business for which no more family was available to carry on?

Last night, some of you may recall, there was a segment on 60 Minutes about the oldest family run company in the world: Antinori Winery in Italy. Since 1385, the same family. But, however, there was a moment there when the paterfamilias felt that, since he had no male heirs, the future of the company was in doubt. He sold part of the company - 40%, I believe - to Whitbread, the British brewer. That wasn't a good thing, and it didn't work out.

He did have three daughters, and, surprise surprise! They love the winery, and loved being farmers (and they take helicopters to their vines!), so he bought the Whitbread share back.

Well, it seems Vesuvio's wasn't able to do that ... what if they had asked Sr Antonori? The latest news I could find was in the New York Times, but maybe you know something more?

My lesson for everyone: talk to people! Ask questions!

Alison's Post

2009-04-28T12:09:00.001-04:00

While I have no interest in baseball, I really enjoyed the thread of your conversation that morphed from baseball to beer to NYC history. Your vision of NYC and its rich history enliven and enrich. Thanks!

Brewerys in New York

2009-04-24T09:50:00.000-04:00

All right, Sports Fans, the ball season has begun, with vast visible rows of pricy empty seats, but what's real about baseball for most of us is that cry of "Beah heah!" that your groping in your pocket for change, dollar bills, you know - what you just really need to have to enjoy the game!

But the reality of it all is - it's just so damned expensive now. Yet, New York was crowded with brewerys just 100 years ago - and George Ehret's was the biggest. Anyone know that name? No? Well, then, just imagine being a child back at the beginning of the twentieth century, and read this:

"I learned to tell time by the only timepiece available to our family, the clock on the tower of Ehret's Brewery at 93rd St and 2nd Avenue [see above]..." And: "There was a spectacular pageant on our street, every workday of the year .... This was the passing of Mr. Ehret through 93rd Street, to and from the Ehret Brewery.

"Mr. Ehret rode in a dazzling black carriage, pulled by a team of prize black stallions. A footman and a coachman, in regal uniforms of blue and gold, sat on top of the carriage .... [I]n the morning the coachman would stand up and shake the reins and the stallions would charge down the hill in full gallop."

Yes! Imagine you're Adolph Marx, on the stoop of your home at 179 E. 93rd Street looking up the hill to your right - and this galloping sound greets you every morning at 9. Wow! Certainly makes a mere Maybach seem small, doesn't it?!

Who's Adolph? He, as with his brothers, didn't get the nickname we know him by until a fateful poker game when he was 25: Harpo. Read "Harpo Speaks, About New York" and then tell me you don't feel the joy of being a kid in New York all over again!

The First Blog by Bill - an Epic Event!

2009-04-22T15:05:00.000-04:00

Not the biggest deal by far, for sure, but important nonetheless. Now, everyone, let's get prepared to receive news from the great "aroundhere" from TourGuideBill, who will attempt to keep his eyes open, his nose to the ground, and his chin up against every wise guy there is who would defeat him and make him depressed.

Now, that's not too much to ask, is it? After all, as a small businessman, a man of the smallest business, a man younger than his years in the forefront of his business, yes, shouldn't I be up-looking and positive about my prospects for great success as an independent and curious tour guide? After all, the guy from Hoboken said, if I can make it here --

Enough! What have you seen today, TourGuideBill?