so tomorrow....

I will be subbing at Friends, what looked like a simple half day has turned into a full day that is almost non-stop from 9:40 to 3:10---actually there is an hour break from around 12 to 1, but I am very willing to submit to this heavy schedule. Will have to tell one of my students that I can only see her at four, instead of at 1, but she has to understand that that is the way it is. Or possibly I can move her to another day. Anyway, really looking forward to it...should be fun. Think I have the eighth grade twice.
Yesterday, a day without tutoring, some problems with structure, but ultimately things turned out okay. Decided to see the movie that Richard Gere made called Time Out of Mind, in which he plays a homeless man about his age. Very straightforward movie---some very harsh moments, not a lot of variety, so it was easy to get caught in its sadness, but still a strong picture of how a homeless man functions. Also great supporting performances from Ben Vereen and Kyra Sedgwick (almost unrecognizable, but then again, I have not seen her television work).There are moments when the camera focuses on Gere in such a way that he appears extremely handsome, so at those moments, some of the illusion of homelessness is muted, also, there is comfort for the viewer in knowing that Gere is not truly homeless, far from it (I assume) which allowed me to focus more on the fact that this was just a "role" for him, and not his life. Yet the soberness of the movie and its straightforward depiction of this very depressing world, really comes though, when I awoke this morning, I was experiencing the sadness and hopelessness of the movie (sometimes the choices I make for the night before, and the feelings that these choices evoke, carry over to my first thoughts in the morning). That was, of course, before I got the call requesting my services at Friends, which moved me into a different zone.
Plans for the weekend are firming up, Friday there is an interesting film at the Bushwick (still another) film festival. From the advance blurb, it is about a man looking for a former lover, who, finding out that she has died, tracks down her younger sister and begins a relationship with her--sounds like the kind of movie that I like, though who knows it could be kind of turgid. If I go, the movie shows in a space on Flushing Avenue, so I will be in Bushwick---possible to drop into Pine Box, or one of the other watering holes there, Saturday and Sunday there is also the work of friends of mine that I should visit.
So let's get started with the day...

so the rest of the...

weekend went something like this: Saturday, rested until 6, then decided to go and see the Verdi program at the Moth, which meant traveling to the Wilson Avenue station in Bushwick (actually where Bushwick ends) No problem, got there, liked the energy, unfortunately found the program rather boring---really thought that a new company would choose the un-typical Verdi, here the choices were from the repertory that everyone knows. Not really staged with any vision. Singers had voices that could handle the music, but not a lot of individuality---found myself getting very annoyed. Audience loved it though (though what that means I have no idea) Afterwards, I was very clear to Clint about not liking the evening. Must have come on very strong, and since I think he feels a strong bond to the company he got very aggressive. I was then forced to defend myself, probably could have defused the whole thing by just saying it wasn't for me, but a big argument followed. Left feeling kind of shook up, those things really don't happen to me much, but felt a need to defend my position, and was surprised that Clint bought into the whole thing. But like I said, he probably has a strong bond to the company, maybe feels a stake in their future, so that might have been what provoked his strong outburst,
But the night wasn't over---I had previously been invited to a party by the BAN people, it was on 24th and 7th, and though I was tired, figured I would stop by and see who was there. Got there around 11, after walking up sixth from 14th street. Really hungry, bought a six pack of beer for the party, lots of chicken, which I gorged on. But very few people were there who I knew, so left soon after filling myself up.Will be there for the next meeting on Thursday. Returned home to find a text from Clint, thanking me for coming out---I think that makes things a bit better between us--should be no problem in the future.
Sunday, main event was finishing Between the World and Me, very stirring memoir by Te-Nihani Coates, Got some great ideas for the discussion at Friends that I expect to attend in two weeks. Rest of day included a stop off at South Fourth for Pizza that never arrived, had to go over to new place on North Fifth--pretty good (but not great) pizza. That was followed by a trip out to Cobra, got a chance to relax, watch the football game and read the Times, nice bartender. After that not sure of plans: did I want to go back to Manhattan and see a movie, but I was in Bushwick and urge to explore took over. Finally settled on taking the bus that goes from DeKalb and Irving to downtown Brooklyn, moving through Bushwick Bed-Stuy Clinton Hill and Fort Greene. Fascinating trip---especially the blocks between Malcolm X and Bedford--lots of new buildings emerging on those blocks, (Coates would consider that a bad thing), but watching the change in architecture very fascinating. Would love to travel every east west block on Bed Stuy like that, look at all the architecture
Anyway, after that got tired, went to Bark, on the Park Slope border for one of their excellent hamburgers (really the only place that I get hamburgers from) and then, really exhausted, returned home by the three train.
Rest of today, not sure, would love to see something at film festival, but don't know if I can handle expense---still should see Time Out of Mind---the movie about the homeless person played by Richard Gere. Probably will go to Lincoln Center library this afternoon, maybe read Oedipus at Collonus, the one play of the Oedipus trilogy that I know the least. Will keep you posted....

so here I am in...

library on 145th street, having just finished my only lesson for the day. Sadly, the two girls just skipped on me while I took a bathroom break---I did not expect that even though the session was realistically over. Sometimes I feel they can be very manipulated. Will have to work it through, however.
Yesterday, good day at Friends, rambunctious ninth graders---but got through it some interesting new faces who have just joined the friends community. Afterwards, was tired, but decided to go to movie theater at Lincoln Center to see if I could see Kazan's Wild River, it was being shown for free as a prelude to whole film festival, along with several other films. Had not trouble getting in--really liked the movie, always love watching Montgomery Clift---others from my youth in the movie include Lee Remick, Robert Earl Jones, Jo Van Fleet (she is superb in the role of the intransigent grandmother who won't sell her land to the TVA) and Albert Salmi as the town bully. Still not tired, went to Irish bar on 72nd street, met friend Gary, who was born and raised in Baltimore and we watched some of the Baltimore, Boston game on TV. Lots of people in the bar who had seen the Pope in Central Park, or who at least got near him. Gary is a lawyer about my age who works for the city, about to retire. We have the shared vision of some kind of life in Baltimore in common. He seems more troubled by the fact that the Freddy Gray trial will be held in the city, then I do.We discussed some of the inns and outs of the trial and things in Baltimore in general.
Today, thought I would just "drift" and let things happen, but just found out about an opera program in deep Bushwick that seems very interesting. Friends of mine will be there, really thinking about going. That leaves the afternoon, have one book to read, but don't find it very interesting. Not sure how this will play out. That's all for now...

so it's Thursday...

one lesson down, one to go. Here I am at Lincoln Center  Library, one of my favorite places, with some time on my hands. What's new since yesterday? Well...
Will sub tomorrow at Friends, really looking forward to that.
Yesterday, no fatigue in the afternoon, after the two lessons, returned home and prepared for evening trip to FUREE meeting---at NYCHA projects in York Street in Vinegar Hill. Luxury condos directly across the street from the projects---amazing! Jay Street seems to be a dividing line. On one side, affluent DUMBO, and on the other, the Navy Yard projects. Do they get along with mutual respect..?  Can't say. FUREE meeting was productive, not that many people there, Michael and Shatia trying to rev up the NYCHA residents as it seems like their place is being threatened. There is a meeting on October 5th, should go and show my support, even if I don't live in the projects. Will see how it plays out. Enjoy my friendship with Michael H, the Hopkins graduate (11) who is playing a major role in FUREE life.
After that headed for Jack, the performance space for a reading of a play by my friend Merlin's friend, Sinaz. This is a piece that I have seen in progress before---she still is playing with the vision for the second act. Lots of people there, to my surprise, everyone very friendly. Shocked to see my old friend Margo S, who is about my age, and does not leave Manhattan much, as far as I know, at the Reading. Spoke to her afterwards, she met another woman there, and they were going home together, so I did not have to accompany them, instead I could take my long wandering walk through Brooklyn (or actually towards BAM and the close subways) , which, sad to say, really turned out to be uneventful. Got pizza at a place near BAM, it was good, but decided I did not want to try a bar for a beer, just went home. Saw many people I knew at the Reading---that was fun---Sinaz is finally going to do a complete production at the Brick in the spring---Good! Hope she gets it out of her system (yes, there are many good things there) and goes on to her next original project.
Weekend fairly open, might take a vacation from seeing plays---party for BAN members on Saturday evening at 24th street space, should go, should be good for an hour, or thereabouts. On Saturday day, thinking of going out to Ditmas Park, have not been there for a while, might be good to wander around there.
Should be reporting back on Saturday(usually do not blog when I work at Friends) so we will see how things turn out.

apotheosis.....

went to Sybil's play last night---Fondly, Colette Richland---and was blown away. Great experience, made more powerful by the fact that I knew the work of most of the actors. An amazing bond created between the ERS actors and Sibyl's writing. Was not sure if I would go with the crazy quilt experience that happens midway into Act I, but found myself enjoying it, understanding the language that Sybil was using, and was feeling very upbeat and goodnatured about it when I spoke to Sybil after Act I. Act II continued in that vein, but it built, and became more bizarre, I found myself grooving with the characters more and more and then that amazing dance piece about 10 minutes before the end, just blew me away---everything in the play was leading up to that---made the whole experience so exciting.
Afterwards, congratulated Sybil, she invited me to have a beer with several members of the cast and a friend of hers---Great discussion afterwards with Laurena, Suzi and Sybil. Felt very creative. Sybil seemed to need a boost of confidence--and I hope our discussion gave it to her; her work--language wise and thought wise, is really terrific. Not a play for everyone, but those who understand what is going on, the continuing vision from Sound and the Fury for the company, the amazing costumes whose colors add so much to the play, will hopefully be, like I was, truly astounded.
  What do I mean by 'apotheosis"? Just, as I was thinking this morning, a sense that the vision of myself as a creative person, that began really in my senior year of college, was fulfilled in the conversation that followed the play. Really glad that I could communicate my vision of what was on the stage, and that the actors were so happy to receive it.
Anyway, back to the "harsh realities" of the present---after this two lessons and then probably will go to FUREE meeting tonight at the projects at 6, After that, maybe will leave in time to go to Merlin's reading at JACK, maybe go back and visit my bartender friend Erin...maybe..well, we will see

so last night....

made the decision to go to Standing and watch the baseball games (Yankees and Mets, both in important games) and the football game as well. Free wings at 8:30---stuffed myself (no surprise there)  but did I make the right choice to reject the Readings at Franklin Park in favor of Standings. Standings is a good place; many people know me and like me there, bartenders friendly and courteous, but again, it is very male oriented (is there a sports bar that isn't?) and only works on certain of my needs. Would I have had a better time at Franklin Park, where I knew one of my facebook friends (also a Friends graduate) would be? Did I not want to risk being there by myself, in a sea of younger faces and relationships? Usually I have no problem being "older" when I go to plays or events that mostly include younger people, but these are people I know. If I had been strongly familiar with one of the writers, I might have felt less ambivalent about going.But now, the morning after, I do feel a little disappointed that I did not take the risk. Well, maybe there is a lesson learned here---have to consider this the next time I am faced with" major" choices.
That leaves the rest of the day---no real plans, no tutoring, will probably try to get a rush ticket to Sibyl's play this evening. Which leaves me with what? Not sure, might travel to Brooklyn, tonight is the eve of Yom Kippur, the most serious of the Jewish Holidays (which, as you can see, I don't observe) so streets should be empty. Just remembered that someone I met at Cobra Club runs a trivia contest on Tuesdays; if Sibyl's play does not work out, could end up there.
The strongest memory of Yom Kippur that I have concerns two Saturdays in September of 1960, and 1963. These were my freshman and senior years in Baltimore. The first, was actually about 10 days after I arrived at Hopkins for the first time, and only three days after classes began. My friend Jeff and I, found ourselves on Park Heights Avenue, the main street of one of the strongest Jewish neighborhoods in Baltimore. It was towards the end of the services, we walked form synagogue to synagogue (there were many of them on that length of street, about a mile) seeing if we could experience the last service. All of Jewish Baltimore, mostly families, was there in their finery---I watched as many kids my age, male and female, congregated around the Shuls. Felt very much like I wanted to be part of this, everything seemed so serene and well programmed. Finally, Jeff and I found a synagogue that had room for us for the final service---the rabbi spoke about Kennedy, then running for President, and some support for him that made the rabbi angry. This was my first glimpse into the Jewish section of Baltimore, in the next few years, I made many friends, double dated a lot in the area, had crushes on High School girls, all who may have been out that Saturday as I observed, wild eyed, the families before me.
Three years later, much more relaxed about Hopkins and myself,  I went back to Park Heights avenue, and this time did not go into a synagogue, just watched the procession, remembering my callowness from three years earlier. I guess at 20, I was amazed that the same procession was taking place as the one when I was 17.
Did I really want a girl friend from that area...? Never happened.
Left Hopkins the next year, returned only sporadically until the mid seventies. Not long after, Park Heights Avenue underwent a radical change, as the Jews moved out and north, their children went far and wide, and the black community replaced them. The splendor of those early sixties days was gone forever, storefronts boarded up and unsafe conditions replaced them. Similar to what happened in the Bronx, Brooklyn and probably other cities at that time.
Nevertheless, the memories still seem to me incredibly strong.
Will figure out what to do with the rest of the day.

so the weekend....

continued---Saturday, somewhat tired after the two sessions, returned home, but determined to see a movie---went to Bunin theater at Lincoln Center, where I saw  Creative Domain, the movie devoted to Paul Taylor choreographing Three Dubious Memories. Took the process from first rehearsal to premiere in Texas---nice interviews with the dancers---very intense look at creative process, enjoyed it and the talking heads featured in the movie. Afterwards there was a discussion with two former Taylor dancers---so not much was said about the dance choreographed in the movie. Wished there would have been some of the current dancers there---anyway, most of the discussion centered around the couple's (they are married) experiences as Taylor dancers---all in the past. I asked the one question that had to do with the ballet itself---found answers rather superficial---but that's the way it was. It was early after the film, but I was too tired tor really do anything more than have some yogurt
and fruit and go home.
Sunday, spent most of the day at the Brooklyn Book Fair, went to three discussions---hung around. Interestingly, I did not talk to anyone, but loved the atmosphere and the energy. First discussion revolved around writers and how they spent their time---Joyce Carol Oates was particularly articulate in that discussion, second was the one about gentrification, my main reason for being there. Would have liked to make a comment, but moderator, whom I felt asked too many trivial questions, kept the panel talking too long. Some good points, but reminded me just how many aspects there are to gentrification---one really needs a two hour discussion and an organized sense of topics to get at everything that is involved. Felt that I really had something to offer, but could not get it in. Should maybe start my own discussion at some point. Third panel focused on Sophocles' Antigone---a little intellectual at first, but got at some important point as the discussion built. Left at 6, feeling pleased that I had spent the day at the Fair. Very hungry, took 62 bus to South Fourth (best way to get there without leaving Brooklyn)---interesting trip first through Farragut Projects, then the northern border of Fort Greene-Clinton Hill, then Jewish Williamsburg---those projects and finally Bedford Ave. Got off at Berry and South 11th, took my first walk down Berry to South Fourth, did not realize that there were small projects on that corridor. Did assume that most of Williamsburg south of Broadway is Orthodox, however some strong patches of black and latino people there too.
A little time at South fourth, not much conversation, read interesting article in RealEstate section of  Times, about possible gentrification in South Bronx, did not realize how many buildings there were being redone. Returned home and slept.
Today, no work---not sure of afternoon, may go to Franklin Park reading tonight, or may watch baseball, will determine that later.

so I guess....

you are all waiting to find out cityboy's fate on Thursday, that incredibly hot Thursday. Well, after the library, did go down to the Protest, joined the group at City Hall, entered the section where the rally was taking place---and stood with the group for an hour---felt very proud--good speeches, almost wilted in the heat, but muddled through--one of the other protesters got me a large bottle of water---much needed. But the essence of the protest was the unfairness of the current administration's plans for all of the city. All "affordable" housing linked to the building of market rate housing, even in the poorer neighborhoods of the city. Many of those marching with me, on the front lines of the crisis feel that the administration is simply following the needs of the developers. After rally at City Hall, marched with marchers to outside City Planning building on Reade Street. Police accompanied us, the police person who coordinated our march was very polite and fair---no tension at all. Continued picketing and listening to speeches outside City Planning offices, where we were joined by some other protesters, for about an hour. Group was going over to Chinatown to join that Community protest, then was going to march over bridge to Barclay's Center---I however, could not go any further---I had participated for  a little more than two hours in the heat, and needed a rest. Had some coffee and desert, than walked a bit, then took the subway home, feeling a strong sense of accomplishment. Spent the rest of the day resting---a sense that this chapter of my political commitment is over (at least for a while) Continued my friendship with Michael H, a really good guy, and had a good conversation with Joe, from the Bronx, about plans there; he is also the great nephew of Orlando Cepeda, so we had some good discussion about the former Giant baseball player and icon.

Yesterday, another good day at Friends, afterwards, too tired to do much, still have not seen a movie, stayed home and slept, then around 9:30 was restless, took bus to 102nd and Broadway, walked up to 116th street, toyed with going into a bar, but decided against it---took train home and ultimately went to sleep.
Tonight, really do hope to get a movie in, then tomorrow may try to see three forums at the Brooklyn Book Fair, not sure about the rest of the day--have to see Sybil's play at NYTW soon.
That's all for now, will report on weekend Monday....

so today's....

the day---woke up this morning tired----figured best place for me to join the marchers is at City Hall at around 2:30, which I will leave to from here (Lincoln Center Library). The leader's fist e-mails sound very passionate and positive---hope that a lot of people participate. Very hot today, don't know whether after the Press Conference at City Hall, I will be able to continue---would like to stay at least until most of Chnatown protest. Writing this, I feel a sense of exuberance, of the positive---maybe the flyering had an impact. I hope so.
Yesterday, had my two sessions, was tired afterwards, decided to go to Wallace's and watch some of Yankee game---went there, had a beer and a steak sandwich (really hungry) and watched only first inning of the game because I was tired. Nice atmosphere, but no really interesting conversations. Still, got what I needed---returned home, lay down and then slept from 8:30 to 12:30---got up with the usual energy. Slept for most of the rest of the evening, but woke up feeling very fatigued, I feeling that I have carried into this very moment. Don't want to exert myself too much today, as I want to be ready and fresh for tomorrow's work at Friends.
So that is it at this moment, looking forward to the weekend, where hopefully life will be simplified as to choices of what movie or play to go to or where to hang out.

waiting for tomorrow....

the city wide action, I have helped (in a very small way) to plan. Very ambivalent about my participation, what, of the many choices to I want to participate in. It will be very hot, so long walks...
but you know you are very good at long walks. Anyway, still figuring out my place in things---today I will help Michael and make some phone calls for FUREE.
Woke up this morning feeling very anxious---I think I am finally discovering the difference between action and "art". Art, no matter how messy, is absorbed and thought about as a whole experience---when it is over, one returns to one's next moment. Action, or democracy, or trying to effect change is very sloppy, happens over a long period of time---and is much harder to pin down. That explains the anxiety, I think, I cannot 'pin down" this experience, it is constantly in motion and changing and even after the marches tomorrow, it will continue. So that is it.
Rest of the day, some tutoring---then the phone calls, not sure what will happen after that, if anything.
And then tomorrow...if I don't work, there will be decisions to be made.

so yesterday.....

at around 5, I headed for 24th street to help out with the BAN project that is happening on Thursday.
Not that many people there---I thought more had signed up, but I contributed. Stayed there for 3 plus hours, during which I glued flyers on to oak tag that would then be put up on placards for Thursday's march. About two other volunteers with me and the two leaders. A lot of work, but glad to do my part; have to remind myself that this is a real contribution that I am making. Will I participate in Thursday's actions. Not sure, will do it on the fly, if at all. Have to wait to see if Friends needs me, then if not, and the day is free, still ambivalent as to what actions I will participate in. Possibly hand out flyers in the morning, maybe go to "the junction" in Brooklyn (Flatbush-Nostrand) and hand out there, also could be a "ruuner" (If such a one is needed) to bring flyers to the posts among Brooklyn where the most need is for them. Anyway, will see how this develops.
Today at 5 I will got to the BAN meeting place again, will see what I can contribute, then I guess remain for the meeting tonight around 6:30. Tomorrow I am free, so see where I am needed then as well.
After working had to return home, then got a pizza slice on Amsterdam at 80th street and walked next door to the mostly empty bar where I watched the end of the Yankee game and the Monday night football game as well. Not much conversation, could have looked for a more interesting bar, but I was tired, did not want to wade my way through raucous crowds screaming for their team, so this bar seemed preferable. Not sure what I will do after tonight' s meeting, will try to stay around 23rd street area, or maybe head south, not a lot happening around uws.
Am fantasizing about a time when I can just go to a movie (maybe the one about Paul Taylor, or the Richard Gere one in which he plays a homeless person) or maybe just walk through a Brooklyn neighborhood (like Park Slope---don't say you don't enjoy gentrified neighborhoods, cityboy)  and not think "politically". Still, am glad that I am being active in BAN, this is what I promised myself that I would do---do not want to just sit back and watch when much is happening that is damaging to many New Yorkers who do not deserve to be exploited.
That's all for now...will report on the day and night to be tomorrow...

not a lot of time to...

really post today, already have a hectic lesson and got my teeth cleaned. Will go down to the group around 5.
Saturday, actually spent most of the day resting, did not feel well. Probably exerted myself too much on Friday, but was well worth it. Did go to Duplex on Saturday evening for one woman show that my friend Ellie directed. Not too great, not to fond of the content, but had a good conversation with the woman sitting next to me, who happens to teach in the divinity department at Yale. Not much after that, went home and slept.
Sunday, an interesting day---got the brochure for Film Festival, looks like a million films I would like to see, wonder if I will see any--then off to south fourth for pizza (free) and football--watched for a while, then off to pick up flyers from katie, that meant walking up Broadway to Lorimer, bus to Myrtle then visited with her for about a quarter of an hour, she is very nice, right now her mom seems to be ill. Picked up flyers, discusses problems of comittment and time, then walked through Bushwick---from Broadway to Wycoff via (mostly) Hart street. Always an interesting walk. Stopped off at Molasses book store on Hart between Knickerbocker and Irving---left a flyer for the day of rallys there--they were very interested and responsive Also left flyers at South Fourth (when I returned) and at Cobra---bartender Andrew was also receptive and had a good talk with a guy named John, who knew Baltimore and does trivia for the bar. Thought that a movie might be possible, but after second trip to South Fourth, with a little football watching, felt tired by 7 and returned home.
(Hard to leave Williamsburg for the trip home---really like it there---but I did it)
Will go down to help the group around 4:30 probably will be there for the rest of the day....report on all this with some more thoughts tomorrow.

great day....

yesterday, could not have asked for a more meaningful one on the day before my birthday. Returned to Friends---very happy to be there---relieved head librarian in the library for over an hour, , then an afternoon class of seventh graders where I could be very helpful. Nice to see everybody on the faculty again, return there on Friday---maybe sooner, things look good there this year.
In the evening, even though I was tired, went to see Iphigenaia in Aulis, at CSC---expected something interesting, but hardly prepared for this incredible production of this play by Euripides, a totally integrated production---great acting---terrific adaptation, totally integrated in Rachel's production.Very powerful from beginning to end. The audience, at least three fourths made up of spectators over fifty, went wild with applause at the end. Was lucky enough to say hi to Rachel and Kristen afterwards, really glad they are my friends---left shattered, could not even go into a bar to check baseball scores, it was that good, and I could not give up the feeling.
So in the course of a week, two really specific and intense theater productions, Iphiginaia and Mercury Fur---strong work nobody running in place. Iphiginaia runs through the 27th, wonder if the reviews will be strong and if they will extend; it certaily deserves a greater life.
Afterwards, decided to go to Elephant and Castle, expensive but felt I needed a big salad, instead of the usual peppironi pizza slice. Enjoyed the meal, had a lot of butter on bread, which I don't usually do, then returned home, very tired.
Not much else to report---today will visit block party in Harlem where one of the BAN members is handing out flyers, then maybe go to BDC to drop of a flyer or two there, if they are open.
Yankees play a double header today---a full one, not a day and night split---reminiscent of the old days, after all this perhaps will find a bar to watch the second game---then tonight to Ellie's project at the Duplex. A movie in as well...? Probably not. Anyway, should report back on Monday....

feeling happy....

since I have just read that Brooklyn Borough President Adams has spoken out against the proposed sale of the Brooklyn Heights Library to major developers. Have to really hand it to the CDL people; they really worked their butts off---very strong vision by Michael W. Still the rejection is not a done deal by any sense, but the fact that Adams comes out against it is, I feel, a strong blow for citizen involvement. Have to like it.
Earlier this morning received a call from Friends, will be subbing there tomorrow, really threw me for a loop, hardly expected to be called this early, but a very good feeling about this.
Last night, not the most interesting of evenings, felt much too tired to go out to Brooklyn to see the short plays---will go tonight---so, with what energy I had, decided to go to Lansdowne, the sports bar in Hell's Kitchen that I sometimes attend. Nice greeting from Mel, a very sweet bartender and the manager, who had left but now returned. Had my salad, which was very good, but unfortunately could not stay in Mel's section due to arranged party that was set up. Too bad, could have continued watching games from front of bar, but for some reason decided I wanted to leave, not sure where exactly I wanted to go (I was tired) but felt that going home at that point (about 9,) was not really an option.Ended up at the Irish bar on 72nd street, ( in the old All State space) not a very pleasant crowd, mostly men, involved with sports, the bartender, a kind man named John, was as usual, very warm and decent. Nothing really wrong with the place, just not much happening there--stayed to watch the end of the Yankee game--then went home.
Today, must see the short plays on Union Street, before that, was planning to visit SOS Crown Heights, wish to drop off Flyer there for rallys next Thursday, hope I will do it but the logistics are a little strange.
All in all, excited about going to Friends tomorrow, want to have some good discussions with my friends on the faculty---great to see the students again, will report.

have been in a funk,,,,

since BAN meeting ended last night. very sad, the situation re gentrification in this city, particularly in Brooklyn. After meeting, walked down 23rd street from7th to 6th and back again.. I remember when that street was pretty honky tonky---one nice building on northwest corner of 23rd and then many spots to avoid. But the southern part of the street now includes three or four terraced high rises---so the poverty conditions have been replaced by housing for the very wealthy, nothing in between.
Before that, had a fruit cup and coffee at the Greek diner that is close to seventh on the northern side of the street. Yes, a large fruit cup and good coffee, and everyone was very nice, and the tv allowed me to watch the Mets triumph over the hapless Nationals---but $7.60 plus a one dollar tip! Unbelievable! Still, that is what costs have come to in this day and age, an age without commercial rent control, which most of us take for granted. Yet this is part of the problem.
At the meeting, really experienced the rage that the two black leaders of this organization feel towards the police and the real estate industry. They really feel that the aggressiveness of these two organizations are totally unchecked. The upper West Side is by now completely transformed into a well to do enclave. What will happen to the middle and lower class people of Brooklyn and Queens who are in the way of the needs of the real estate industry? Is it hopeless?
The more I consider these issues, the more distanced I feel from the people on the upper west side, many my contemporaries, who seem to have forgotten about these issues. And what about my theater friends. Today, will go to see several short pieces including one by my favorite group, Assembly.Is this a different zone altogether? Will I even discuss the events of last night? Several other theater events coming up this week...will see if it is possible to integrate the two worlds in any way.
Some good things from yesterday, though, was invited to join Bushwick group to flyer on Sunday, and may join Sheehan (I think that is how you spell his name) on Saturday at his block party in Harlem where he will flyer.  More adventures. Also two movies that I would like to see.
That is all for now...needed to get all this out...will continue tomorrow.....

Monday's adventures....

began at the Carribean day festival on Eastern Parkway---first time being there---I had committed to helping out at the BAN stand---and did, gave out some fliers, sold some tee shirts and tried to talk some passers by into joining the protest against gentrification. Stayed for about three hours---awfully hot----but felt I did my bit--left after a few others had joined the group and were handing out fliers and engaging the passers by in discussions about gentrification. Kind of put off by some of the rage that the black members of the group expressed as the police and governor passed, but have to understand, that they may have experienced police harassment in a way that I never have. It's their experience; mine is to be totally untouched by the police. Anyway, a successful three hours, will obviously here more about it at tonight's meeting. Then it was off to South fourth cookout with a stop off at Mullane's for some beer and to watch both day games which were taking place. Took the 38 bus (it goes east on Lafayette until it turns and finishes its run on deKalb in Bushwick.) then went back on the J to Marcy. Arrived at South Fourth just in time for the food and good cheer from many that are friends---a group of us watched and cheered for the Mets as they won their crucial game against the Nationals. Eight years ago was my first Labor Day cookout at South fourth, since then have not missed any of the three cookouts (Memorial Day and July 4th the others) that they have had every year. Hard to believe that eight years have passed since the first one.
After some good conversations, returned home---decided I was awake enough to go to Gloria Grahame retro at Lincoln Center---saw Crossfire, with Robert Ryan (a familiar face) in the evening. Enjoyed it, even if it is a little over straightforward---still, always enjoy seeing a movie at the Walter Reade.
That's all for now, the weekend finishes, tonight the meeting with the BAN group; not sure about tomorrow, weekend looks set, will report as soon as I know.

so here we go....

kind of quick to do a focus on the weekend, but we will try.
Saturday---found out about  vigil in Crown Heights after a murder on Friday morning. Attended vigil at 6:30 at corner of Prospect Place and Schenectedy Avenue. My two contacts from SOS were not there, so basically, I stood alone. Was a little bothered since none of the other SOS members made contact with me, but decided to stay and support them, because I believed I should be there. It is there commitment that is really important. Still moved by their commitment and passion. Very hungry after it was over, so headed to subway and then to Bark, for a nice hamburger---only hamburger I have really eaten this year is theirs. Then, went to Anthology Film Archives for a showing of Bad Day at Black Rock--a really terrific movie made in the mid fifties with Spencer Tracy and Robert Ryan.
Afterwards, Ryan's son and biographer spoke, I commented how the film confronted the blacklist (many films made in the fifties did) and Ryan's son agreed with me. Nice time, returned home.
Sunday: Decided to see Mercury Fur, to see Zane P/s performance. Managed, without any trouble to get a 27.00 dollar ticket. A passionate nightmare--a really vicious play, but one that is valid. Brutality abounded, I felt as if I was really trapped in this frightening zone. Great ensemble acting from the eight actors---they functioned totally as one. Really intense, not for everyone. Afterwards, said hi to Zane, we spoke briefly, I was surprised that he seemed to have lost touch with the others in his class at Friends. Left it at that.
Went down to Standings to watch baseball for a while, left and then had some delicious ice cream at the place I discovered while working at the Fringe---read a while. The plan was to head out to Williamsburg and "hang with the gang", but felt very tired when I left the place (maybe over sugared) and just headed home. Sleep soon followed, and that was the rest of the evening.
Kind of pressed for time, will start a new post soon and describe Monday's adventures.

so here we are....

on the eve of the last weekend of the three long weekends of the summer. Feeling kind of
'up" about things, think that I have all my strength back---ready for the long walks among the streets of Brooklyn, which I truly crave. Monday I hope to participate in the Eastern Parkway Parade, where I will help out for BAN. Otherwise, just about every moment is open. Sounds good, should go down to La Flaca, today and check in with Bob. Have not seen him in a while, important to remain in touch. Otherwise, the amount of choices available to me in terms of movies, or plays or baseball, is overwhelming. Well, we will just let it happen.
Yesterday, did feel tired after session at Library, returned home and slept, afterwards, finally went to my "first" movie (the first after Fringe); it was Queen of the Earth, made by the same guy (his name escapes me) who made Listen Up Philip, an "ordinary" indie that was much praised. This one was very atmospheric, really about two women in their thirties who are close,  there are some men in it, and it jumps around in time and content. Beautiful photography, felt involved throughout, also felt the movie ended too quickly, for what he gave us, the director-writer could have developed about 15 more minutes---characters deep enough and mysterious enough to warrant more development. Not a "great" movie by any means, I suppose you might call it a "decent" enough one.
Afterwards, hung around the center, read some more of Coates' first memoir (really good) had a nice blt at a greek place on tenth and 60th, then returned to the center for the movie of Il Tittico, Jack O'brien's production of the three one act Puccini operas that are often played together.
  Stayed for most of it. Not really entanced by the music---the first il Tabarro, the strongest. Was moved by Suor Angelica, but it is endless---finally left during Gianni Schicci, had simply had enough, did not find the music very interesting. As much as I value Puccini for his fantastic "immediacy" I find these three operas rather boring. Still, stayed until 10, did not want to arrive home early. Good move, as, too my surprise, I slept pretty well last night. Oh, and by the way, O'brien's production was very good, thought he knew what he had to do, beautifully costumed (Jess Goldstein, I think).
Report ends now, probably will not be able to blog until Tuesday, should have some interesting reports by then...

evenings unused....

because of tiredness, at least Monday's and yesterday's. Tuesday, still tired, but walked over to Lincoln Center, watched most of opera movie Iolanta, by Tchaikovsky---really amazing, loved the music, Tchaikovsky such a genius---interesting that during the curtain call, I noticed another difference in the evolution of opera.When I began to really watch opera (1965) curtain calls were slanted towards the audience loving the individual singers, and their bows reinforeced this. Watching Netrebko, et.al, take their bows on the screen, I realized that all of the singers seem to realize that for all that they give to their roles, and their importantce,  they are part of a greater vision. It's more of an honor to the composer----they see themselves as parts (important parts, of course) of the whole. Just realized that by watching the curtain call in the movie outside the Met.
Stayed for a little bit of Bluebeard's Castle, by Bartok, , but style of the music was so different, so harsh, in comparison to the Tchaikovsky, it was difficult to get involved. Still, those movies on the Lincoln Center Plaza are really effective---I am glad that they are there.
Yesterday---after tutoring (a lot) returned home without much energy. Am reading The Beautiful Struggle, by Ta-Nehisi Coates, the first book that this essayist wrote.It is a really strong picture of the isolation of the black youth in Baltimore. He was raised near Mondawin---where Park Heights and Reisterstown Road really begin. Strong memories of that area from my four years at Hopkins, it was, of course, the Jewish section (winding down its thirty or forty years as such)--so the streets that he imposes the chaos on, I remember as streets where I road my car (1964) dreaming and searching for Jewish high school girls---loved the quietness of the private houses. Remember two long walks along Park Heights Avenue in September of 60, and then again in September of 63. Both were on the Saturdays of Yom Kippur, I remember being amazed at the many Jewish people who seemed to be moving between and entering the three or four synagogues that we passed. This was a life I wanted (or so I thought at those moments). Yet, only a few years later---probably by the late sixties, the neighborhood had changed, with most Jews moving across Northern Parkway, and poorer blacks replacing them. By the eighties, we have the brutal world that Coates describes. Still hung up by my Baltimore memories---well, it is the only other city in which I truly lived, so perhaps it is understandable.
Today, will probably go out to Brooklyn, maybe visit SOS Crown Heights, I have promised to do that for a while---today would be a good day to go, unless tiredness overcomes me, which is possible. Will return with a report, tomorrow.

Tuesday morning....

things getting a little more back to normal--last night, found myself without much energy, stayed at home, not even strong enough to walk to Barnes and Nobles, about 6 blocks away. Really needed the rest, though it took me some time to get to sleeep. Have one book out of library---about the LA Dodgers and the transition in ownership between 2012 and 2013---interesting, but can't I find something more literary or meaningful in non-fiction? Well, it is only a day after Fringe is over, give it some time, cityboy---maybe as the week progresses, you can settle into a more relaxed context and find a book that will not be sports.
Today, did some errands, then arrived at the library (where I am now) then to library on 145th street for two lessons, then the meeting this evening on west 24th street. That should do for most of the day, maybe a movie after the meeting, though I might be pretty tired after that.
Much to do in the next few days---many choices, just got an e-mail from Jack about an interesting production to possibly see this weekend. Lots to do, to consider, let's leave it there for now...