Wednesday---just picked up check from Friends and now here. No work today, this means that I probably can meet the Assembly people (the theater group that I am very f riendly with) tonight. Yesterday, after one session and a full day of subbing, came home and had nothing left .That is usually the way it is---hard choices to make with a lot of things that I have been invited to in the coming evenings. But I would never turn down Friends.
Tomorrow if I can make it, is the 10th anniversary party at South Fourth, would be very nice if I could go. The place has meant a lot to me over the years---do not go there as much as I used to (sometimes five or six days a week---mornings and afternoons too) but over the years I have made a lot of friends and had many good conversations there.
Friday, the two events on Starr Street (yes two, if you want to)
Saturday the play at Friends (really looking forward to it!
Sunday...? maybe just football.
Still have my friend Hannah's play to check out (at least it has two more weeks after this one) and just heard about something at Jack that might happen next Saturday.
That is sort of it for now...should get some coffee and continue my time at the computer---just made two contributions to groups working in the neighborhoods, Equality For Flatbush and Bronx Documentary Center and yesterday made a contribution to SOS Crown Heights. That is good, wish that I could do more---maybe if work continues to be strong, that will be possible. We shall see
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Monday, November 28, 2016
Sunday, continued...
After the library at Grand Army Plaza---hunger approached, the question was "where"? First choice on Vanderbuilt, Plan B, a sports bar, not too crowded (I expected more people) but could not find a seat at the bar, and the chemistry was not great---left and went to Soda a little further north on Vanderbuilt. Laid back neighborhood bar, that had the football games on but televisions not easily seen from the bar. Ordered blt---nice and easy on the stomach, then, as I was about to go, got into a long discussion (and of course, that is why I went there in the first place) with a thirty something guy, about the neighborhood and the changes in the city in general in the last 12 years. (He had arrived in the city around 2004). No real need to go into what they were---greater gentrification, more bars and restaurants, etc. Told him about BAN and a few other activist projects I was involved with, all in all a good conversation---may return to that bar soon.
Wandered north on Vanderbuilt, looked at the monstrosity that is being built by Dean---really ugly and out of character with the neighborhood--when and if it is filled what kind of stress will it put on the surrounding stores. Will one be able to get in anywhere....? Really ugly. Continued north on the block, then switched to Washington---the goal was to get to South Fourth, but how? Finally decided that the best way was not the C to the junction and then back on the J, but by the G to its Broadway stop. This meant walking north on Washington about four long blocks, but I was determined to do it.
Once at the stop G came relatively quickly and was at Broadway in a matter of minutes. Thought I might take a bus that goes near the Cafe, but had just missed one, and so walked from Broadway and Union to South Fourth and Berry. Not long, but not short either, especially since it had gotten colder in the past two hours. Remained at South fourth for about three hours, watching the Jets game, chatting with a few regulars and drinking coffee. Thought about going to an event at Mayday bar, but decided it was best to return home---so I did. All in all a good day, nice companionship, lots of exercise through walking, more passion to explore the streets of Brooklyn, like I said a good day.
Not at Friends today, not sure how evening will turn out, will report soon.
Wandered north on Vanderbuilt, looked at the monstrosity that is being built by Dean---really ugly and out of character with the neighborhood--when and if it is filled what kind of stress will it put on the surrounding stores. Will one be able to get in anywhere....? Really ugly. Continued north on the block, then switched to Washington---the goal was to get to South Fourth, but how? Finally decided that the best way was not the C to the junction and then back on the J, but by the G to its Broadway stop. This meant walking north on Washington about four long blocks, but I was determined to do it.
Once at the stop G came relatively quickly and was at Broadway in a matter of minutes. Thought I might take a bus that goes near the Cafe, but had just missed one, and so walked from Broadway and Union to South Fourth and Berry. Not long, but not short either, especially since it had gotten colder in the past two hours. Remained at South fourth for about three hours, watching the Jets game, chatting with a few regulars and drinking coffee. Thought about going to an event at Mayday bar, but decided it was best to return home---so I did. All in all a good day, nice companionship, lots of exercise through walking, more passion to explore the streets of Brooklyn, like I said a good day.
Not at Friends today, not sure how evening will turn out, will report soon.
Sunday, November 27, 2016
cityboy and
Merrilly---well last night saw it at 6:30, the film about the 35 years between the opening of Merrily and the present for most of the original cast. Amazing film! I remember seeing it almost 35 years to the date at the Alvin---did not know what to expect---thought the cast would be downtrodden---found to my surprise that they were exhuberant and that the first act had some flaws but was viable. And then the second act. I was blown away---as someone who had lived through the excitement of musical theater that was generated in the late fifties, the second act seemed to be all about that. Totally authentic---Sondheim's music and lyrics really captured that time. How could the show be closing, I asked myself. This was beautiful and the Times review, the one that counted, had dealt with the show as if there were no differences between the first and second act. Left the theater feeling great but angry that this show was closing the next day. Tried to see it the last performance, but could not get in. Wondered if there would be a future for it.
Early May of 82, I am in DC, visiting my cousin---she is in law school and I cannot see her until early evening. I look at the theater section of the Washington Post, and there to my surprise is---
Merrily, being done by a student group at Catholic University. I really can't believe it---but there it is. I take the train and see the musical for the second time---still very moved by it.
So it follows, the Arena production in 1990, the Kennedy Center Sondheim celebration in 2002, and finally the Encores version a few years ago. Each time manage to get through the "clunky" first act, (which has been revised a great deal since the original) and then the wonderful second act. And now the movie, which discusses the energy of the young original cast (or at least six of them) and where they are now. Total exhiliration! I was swept up in the enthusiasm of the young kids and happy that they had resolved their lives to this point. Afterwards spoke briefly to Jim Walton, who was participating in the discussion with the director. The Q and A dealt more, I think with the feelings of the audience then some hard facts about the show and its progress over the years. For instance, one of the reasons that it is done very often is that in the 35 years since the show opened, the number of not for profit theaters has exploded, and this is where it gets done, so there is no "hit or flop" connotation attached to it. These productions are funded and also short---time enough for the Sondheim fans to come out to see it, but not stretched too far in time.
More, maybe later---will add some thoughts the next blog.
Now in Brooklyn, at the library, as I walked east on Sterling Place from Flatbush, remembered when this was an area one did not want to go into---tried to envision the whole set of changes in the area for the last 45 years. Would love to take an apartment house and look at its population in 1940, 55, 71, 91 and now. See how it changed. It is all mythic to me.
A little bit out of ideas now, will continue to report.
Early May of 82, I am in DC, visiting my cousin---she is in law school and I cannot see her until early evening. I look at the theater section of the Washington Post, and there to my surprise is---
Merrily, being done by a student group at Catholic University. I really can't believe it---but there it is. I take the train and see the musical for the second time---still very moved by it.
So it follows, the Arena production in 1990, the Kennedy Center Sondheim celebration in 2002, and finally the Encores version a few years ago. Each time manage to get through the "clunky" first act, (which has been revised a great deal since the original) and then the wonderful second act. And now the movie, which discusses the energy of the young original cast (or at least six of them) and where they are now. Total exhiliration! I was swept up in the enthusiasm of the young kids and happy that they had resolved their lives to this point. Afterwards spoke briefly to Jim Walton, who was participating in the discussion with the director. The Q and A dealt more, I think with the feelings of the audience then some hard facts about the show and its progress over the years. For instance, one of the reasons that it is done very often is that in the 35 years since the show opened, the number of not for profit theaters has exploded, and this is where it gets done, so there is no "hit or flop" connotation attached to it. These productions are funded and also short---time enough for the Sondheim fans to come out to see it, but not stretched too far in time.
More, maybe later---will add some thoughts the next blog.
Now in Brooklyn, at the library, as I walked east on Sterling Place from Flatbush, remembered when this was an area one did not want to go into---tried to envision the whole set of changes in the area for the last 45 years. Would love to take an apartment house and look at its population in 1940, 55, 71, 91 and now. See how it changed. It is all mythic to me.
A little bit out of ideas now, will continue to report.
Saturday, November 26, 2016
invigorated by...
my session with a five year old kindergarden student. She is a real live wire, and we get along well. First time we really worked for an hour---very fulfilling.
Last night: was tired but went to see The Band's Visit at Atlantic. Was given a seat in the first row, that probably helped keep me awake. But the musical is pathetic. Totally paint by numbers---its amazing to me how the director and book writer, both whom have done really good projects in the past, cannot see through the flaws that the work constantly shows. My friend Kristen is in it; she is great (all the actors in the cast are truly authentic---it is not their fault that the piece is lifeless). Said hello to her afterwards and walked her to the subway---we talked about a few people we knew and plans for her permanent group called the Team. Also said hello to some others from the show, gave them a strong compliment (they deserved it)---walking with her, talking about friends, I felt like I was in a good place. She had to go back to her apartment in Brooklyn, so I said good by to her at the subway---then decided not to get the usual pizza and possibly a beer afterwards and ate at Elephant and Castle. Nice restaurant (no tv) with fairly expensive food. Left after a nice chicken bacon sandwich and nothing else---cost me with tip and tax about $15.00. Gorged myself on butter and bread before the sandwich arrived---big mistake, love the butter but it does not go well with a sandwich. Woke up this morning feeling very bloated--as it approaches 1 P.M. have still not taken in much food. Be more careful, cityboy.
Today and tomorrow, all open, I think the first order of the day is seeing the Merrily We Role Along movie, then perhaps out to Brookyn---another movie? Maybe, also might want to visit the Starr Bar in Brooklyn---things will be cramped starting next week, so should see whatever I need to in the next 48 hours.
Nothing much else to report...will write again soon.
Last night: was tired but went to see The Band's Visit at Atlantic. Was given a seat in the first row, that probably helped keep me awake. But the musical is pathetic. Totally paint by numbers---its amazing to me how the director and book writer, both whom have done really good projects in the past, cannot see through the flaws that the work constantly shows. My friend Kristen is in it; she is great (all the actors in the cast are truly authentic---it is not their fault that the piece is lifeless). Said hello to her afterwards and walked her to the subway---we talked about a few people we knew and plans for her permanent group called the Team. Also said hello to some others from the show, gave them a strong compliment (they deserved it)---walking with her, talking about friends, I felt like I was in a good place. She had to go back to her apartment in Brooklyn, so I said good by to her at the subway---then decided not to get the usual pizza and possibly a beer afterwards and ate at Elephant and Castle. Nice restaurant (no tv) with fairly expensive food. Left after a nice chicken bacon sandwich and nothing else---cost me with tip and tax about $15.00. Gorged myself on butter and bread before the sandwich arrived---big mistake, love the butter but it does not go well with a sandwich. Woke up this morning feeling very bloated--as it approaches 1 P.M. have still not taken in much food. Be more careful, cityboy.
Today and tomorrow, all open, I think the first order of the day is seeing the Merrily We Role Along movie, then perhaps out to Brookyn---another movie? Maybe, also might want to visit the Starr Bar in Brooklyn---things will be cramped starting next week, so should see whatever I need to in the next 48 hours.
Nothing much else to report...will write again soon.
Friday, November 25, 2016
last night at 5....
on my way to Stand and Kayla's house, I am standing on the corner of Bergen Street and Flatbush avenue. The latter street separates Park Slope from Prospect Heights, and was, for most of the seventies, eighties and early nineties, a dividing line between gentrifying and non-gentrifying communities that I very rarely, if at all, crossed. I looked at the small buildings that still exist on the Parlk Slope side of Flatbush and wondered what the rent must have been in those apartments about 35 years ago (early eighties) I think many people would have been frightened to live there. And now....What is it like to look at a street and try to pour the history of the last 46 years into it? You just stand there, unable to move---a comfort zone created for you because the street and that world has so completely gentrified and become "safer"---while you try to imagine yourself there at different points in time. Stood on Bergen and Flatbush for what seemed like a long time, before proceeding to the Thanksgiving celebration at Stan and Kayla's house.
The celebration: ate too much, lots of converesations---good dialogue with Kayla,who works for the city in the housing department. She cannot imagine a time when in the city's future when the real estate lobby will not be prominent---I could not disagree with her, I could not make her understand (maybe I just stopped the argument when I should have continued) that this could mean the wholesale displacement of communities of color from their neighborhoods (Flatbush, Kensington, the Bronx) within, say a twenty year period. Is that what it means? Is she wrong, can something actually be done to stop this? Am I fighting hard enough to make this happens? Questions abound.
Not sure when I will next be in Brooklyn. Probably one day this weekend---after tonight's play, plans are a little sketchy for the remaining weekend days. More exploration...
Wednesday evening, stopped off at Wallace's for the usual Frank and Beer, not too much happening there, returned home, decided to see a movie at any cost for the rest of the evening (could not stay home) Too tired for a subway trip---ended up at 9 o'clock seeing the only movie in the neighborhood that began at that time---The Handmaiden. This is a Japanese film, beautifully photographed---some soft core porn scenes, basically held my interest---ultimately kind of slight but very skillful. Still have not seen the Merrily film, backed off seeing it yesterday morning, though I was free, (Did not feel like dealing with the memories that the film will bring up) will try to catch it over the weekend.
Seeing "The Band's Visit" tonight, got my tickets way in advance (only way to buy the $25.00 tickets) now a little sorry I did, there is a free showing of a movie about James Baldwin at the amphitheater screen in the Bunin that I would like to see.
Well, enough of this, will probably report tomorrow on the evening's events.
The celebration: ate too much, lots of converesations---good dialogue with Kayla,who works for the city in the housing department. She cannot imagine a time when in the city's future when the real estate lobby will not be prominent---I could not disagree with her, I could not make her understand (maybe I just stopped the argument when I should have continued) that this could mean the wholesale displacement of communities of color from their neighborhoods (Flatbush, Kensington, the Bronx) within, say a twenty year period. Is that what it means? Is she wrong, can something actually be done to stop this? Am I fighting hard enough to make this happens? Questions abound.
Not sure when I will next be in Brooklyn. Probably one day this weekend---after tonight's play, plans are a little sketchy for the remaining weekend days. More exploration...
Wednesday evening, stopped off at Wallace's for the usual Frank and Beer, not too much happening there, returned home, decided to see a movie at any cost for the rest of the evening (could not stay home) Too tired for a subway trip---ended up at 9 o'clock seeing the only movie in the neighborhood that began at that time---The Handmaiden. This is a Japanese film, beautifully photographed---some soft core porn scenes, basically held my interest---ultimately kind of slight but very skillful. Still have not seen the Merrily film, backed off seeing it yesterday morning, though I was free, (Did not feel like dealing with the memories that the film will bring up) will try to catch it over the weekend.
Seeing "The Band's Visit" tonight, got my tickets way in advance (only way to buy the $25.00 tickets) now a little sorry I did, there is a free showing of a movie about James Baldwin at the amphitheater screen in the Bunin that I would like to see.
Well, enough of this, will probably report tomorrow on the evening's events.
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
very tired...
after two days of working at Friends, and doing some tutoring. Woke up this morning with no structure---feeling a little blank, but body is moving very slowly. Rest of the week pretty free with Thanksgiving at the Baum's (my cousins Stan and Kayla). Amazingly enough, I have been going to every one of them since 1991---before either of their two children, Molly and Jessie were born. Have not missed any of them except in 2001, when their whole family went up to Boston to visit Kayla's mom Audrey (who has since passed away). On that day I went out to Aqueduct to "play the ponies" and was really destroyed. Truly, have forgotten that there was a time that I did this. I remember coming home on the subway and it was only three, what was I going to do with all that time and very little money. Ultimately I did see a movie and chatted with a bartender at the Cosi across the street from Union Square theater. I recovered, financially, of course, but still the memory of that "lost day" is hard to leave alone.
Sunday evening, saw The Harvest, by Daniel Hunter at Stage 3 Lincoln Center. It was very powerful and very well acted. Last performance, can't believe that the actors had actually played another one earlier in the day. Really riveting. On Saturday, did go out to Bushwick to see Flako's piece (actually written by William Burke, and directed by him as well) about the Elmo character. A very strong piece, brilliantly conceived---really admired the depth of both Flako's and William's commitment.The Times, critic, Elizabeth V, was somewhat put off by it---hard to understand, I never found it threatening at all. I respect her vision, disappointed that she did not see through all the "hurly-burly" of the piece and get into its richness. Saw many people that I know there (they all go to the Starr on Saturday) and ended up talking to my friend Sarah for quite a while, both at the theater and in the bar (Left Hand Path) that we were sent to for free beer, near the theater. The bond between the Starr and the Gypsies (Flako's group) is stronger and more meaningful then I thought. Good, meaningful work.
Hope to return to Bushwick soon, not sure when.
Much to do and see during this break. Of course want to see the movie "The Best Worst etc" about looking back on the original Merrily We Role Along, I saw the third to the last performance in November of 1981 (strange, what a placid time, looking back on it) and loved the second act. Will probably go to see it tomorrow (Thanksgiving morning) at 12:30. Not sure about other choices---might prefer to visit a bar tonight, rather than checking out a play or a movie, will depend on how I feel. Friday, I already have my ticket to The Band's Visit at Atlantic, which my friend Kristen is in.
Movies, plays, bars, walks, football---who knows? Some reading as well---nice to have some "flat time" available to me. Will report on Friday...
Sunday evening, saw The Harvest, by Daniel Hunter at Stage 3 Lincoln Center. It was very powerful and very well acted. Last performance, can't believe that the actors had actually played another one earlier in the day. Really riveting. On Saturday, did go out to Bushwick to see Flako's piece (actually written by William Burke, and directed by him as well) about the Elmo character. A very strong piece, brilliantly conceived---really admired the depth of both Flako's and William's commitment.The Times, critic, Elizabeth V, was somewhat put off by it---hard to understand, I never found it threatening at all. I respect her vision, disappointed that she did not see through all the "hurly-burly" of the piece and get into its richness. Saw many people that I know there (they all go to the Starr on Saturday) and ended up talking to my friend Sarah for quite a while, both at the theater and in the bar (Left Hand Path) that we were sent to for free beer, near the theater. The bond between the Starr and the Gypsies (Flako's group) is stronger and more meaningful then I thought. Good, meaningful work.
Hope to return to Bushwick soon, not sure when.
Much to do and see during this break. Of course want to see the movie "The Best Worst etc" about looking back on the original Merrily We Role Along, I saw the third to the last performance in November of 1981 (strange, what a placid time, looking back on it) and loved the second act. Will probably go to see it tomorrow (Thanksgiving morning) at 12:30. Not sure about other choices---might prefer to visit a bar tonight, rather than checking out a play or a movie, will depend on how I feel. Friday, I already have my ticket to The Band's Visit at Atlantic, which my friend Kristen is in.
Movies, plays, bars, walks, football---who knows? Some reading as well---nice to have some "flat time" available to me. Will report on Friday...
Saturday, November 19, 2016
kind of tired....
after a frenetic week. Actually ended last night, at the Friends "coffee house" that I attended. Had heard about it from Jen G, but that was mostly about last springs. Saw her on the stairs yesterday and found out that there was one last night--decided to go, although I was tired. Glad I did, saw some very deeply felt material and learned that so many of the women students at Friends have great voices. Nice evening---afterwards, hungry but did not want to hang at a bar, found a bagel place on 3rd and 13th that was serviceable (actually, the tuna fish sandwich was very good) and then a desert (necessary?) at Think Coffee a few blocks away on 4th Avenue. As I left, I experienced the city, full of energy in this neighborhood, and remembered that the city can make you feel totally wanted or terribly alone. Managed to get home and to sleep very quickly, had three sessions today, now quite hungry and somewhat tired, there is a anti-gentrification meeting in Brooklyn an hour away, but I think that I will miss this one, need to just go and unwind after a long morning.
Tonight, not sure, but might be a good idea to get to Bushwick and do my "diligence" by seeing Flako and William's project (in Spanish, by the way), then perhaps some bar hopping, (though that probably means just one bar). Tomorrow it will be much colder than today; may change my schedule so that I see a movie first (God knows there are enough interesting ones around) and then watch football. Will improvise, as usual.
Have not seen a play in two weeks, sort of fed up with all the possibilities, and then they end so quickly. Will have more time next week to check things out, still feel rushed and sometimes overwhelmed by all the choices available.
Not much else to say, will report soon.
Tonight, not sure, but might be a good idea to get to Bushwick and do my "diligence" by seeing Flako and William's project (in Spanish, by the way), then perhaps some bar hopping, (though that probably means just one bar). Tomorrow it will be much colder than today; may change my schedule so that I see a movie first (God knows there are enough interesting ones around) and then watch football. Will improvise, as usual.
Have not seen a play in two weeks, sort of fed up with all the possibilities, and then they end so quickly. Will have more time next week to check things out, still feel rushed and sometimes overwhelmed by all the choices available.
Not much else to say, will report soon.
Thursday, November 17, 2016
not a lot of time to post....
just came from follow up check up with Doctor on 161 street---basically everything all right, blood tests show no problems from diabetes, prostate, etc. Pretty good, also heart. Just had an intense picture of my heart---necessary? Possibly, anyway I have a follow up for mid January, the doctor seemed to feel there was no real problem---no rush for anything. Good, have accomplished my health work for the year.
Two days at Friends, off today because the whole day is dedicated to parent teacher conferences. Back tomorrow. First night in which I will be actually free, not sure how I will spend it. Plays galore to see, but each one comes at me like the next---not one of them stands out as something I must see. So much action on New York stages now, but all leave incredibly quickly. At some point will go out to Bushwick to see my friends' William and Flako's piece.
Otherwise, not much, Not sure what the weekend has in store.
Anything else? Not really at the moment, perhaps I will have more to say on Saturday.
Two days at Friends, off today because the whole day is dedicated to parent teacher conferences. Back tomorrow. First night in which I will be actually free, not sure how I will spend it. Plays galore to see, but each one comes at me like the next---not one of them stands out as something I must see. So much action on New York stages now, but all leave incredibly quickly. At some point will go out to Bushwick to see my friends' William and Flako's piece.
Otherwise, not much, Not sure what the weekend has in store.
Anything else? Not really at the moment, perhaps I will have more to say on Saturday.
Monday, November 14, 2016
Monday morning....
so what more is there to say about the election. Everyone has their own vision. Can only listen and dialogue where possible. That's all.
Yesterday: awoke with terrible pain in my right foot. This was during the night. Very nervous about ramifications, but by the evening, the pain had mostly gone away, and I was functioning normally. My life from early Tuesday morning, when I got up early to vote, to Saturday evening, had been pretty intense. Rested most of last night, really needed that rest.
Saturday evening did not want to "isolate" myself at a movie, where then to do to "hang out"? Luckily picked La Flaca. Bobby, my friend the owner, was not there, but sat next to a very nice guy who was watching the Knick game (I had come there to do the same thing) and had some interesting conversations with him. He is a legal aid lawyer (immigration) and had just been attending an anti-election rally at Fifth Avenue. Discussed the current situation and gave him some input about my favorite hang outs in Williamsburg and Bushwick. (You know what they are if you have been reading this blog).
Sunday that is just what I did. First South fourth, Jet game was on, nothing happening there, only stayed a bit---did not immediately want to go to Bushwick, decided it was time to explore Patchen Avenue. a street in the eastern sector of Bed Stuy---took the Broadway bus that turns on Malcolm X Boulevard, got off around Lafayette. Walked south on that street until Greene Avenue, then east to Patchen. The streets between Malcolm X and Patchen are extremely long. Many beautiful Brownstones on Greene, as on other streets that I spied as I walked up Patchen. Neighborhood fairly quiet at that time (around 3:00 P.M.) Found the bar, the Welky, which I wanted to explore on the corner of Monroe and Patchen. It seems to arise out of nowhere, somewhat out of character for the neighborhood. Just opened, bartender sitting at the bar, by himself, seemingly doing some "bar work". I decided not to go in----could predict the discussion that I might have with this guy if he were willing to talk. Also stomach fairly full, could not bring myself to order a beer. So I continued south on Patchen, my destination Fulton, from where I would either take a bus or a train to the Junction and pick up the L back to Jefferson and Cobra. Reached Fulton and opted for the bus. Watched as it traveled the most eastern streets of Bed Stuy and arrived at the Junction. Still find this kind of traveling fascinating, want to do more of it before it gets cold---will I have the time? Got the L back to Manhattan quickly (though I was very tempted to explore in the other direction) and hit Cobra--read some of the Times, too tired to concentrate much on the Steeler-Cowboy game. When I left I was truly exhausted. Just took the L back to Manhattan and 2 home. Asleep very soon afterwards, slept the sleep of sleeps, could feel my body just going with it---this continued all night--I suppose it was necessary after the four days of work at Friends and heavy session on Saturday.
Return to Friends tomorrow for two days and a final one on Friday. Thanksgiving is upon us soon. It seems very early this year. Must go to the maps and look at where I was yesterday. Will report next time.
Yesterday: awoke with terrible pain in my right foot. This was during the night. Very nervous about ramifications, but by the evening, the pain had mostly gone away, and I was functioning normally. My life from early Tuesday morning, when I got up early to vote, to Saturday evening, had been pretty intense. Rested most of last night, really needed that rest.
Saturday evening did not want to "isolate" myself at a movie, where then to do to "hang out"? Luckily picked La Flaca. Bobby, my friend the owner, was not there, but sat next to a very nice guy who was watching the Knick game (I had come there to do the same thing) and had some interesting conversations with him. He is a legal aid lawyer (immigration) and had just been attending an anti-election rally at Fifth Avenue. Discussed the current situation and gave him some input about my favorite hang outs in Williamsburg and Bushwick. (You know what they are if you have been reading this blog).
Sunday that is just what I did. First South fourth, Jet game was on, nothing happening there, only stayed a bit---did not immediately want to go to Bushwick, decided it was time to explore Patchen Avenue. a street in the eastern sector of Bed Stuy---took the Broadway bus that turns on Malcolm X Boulevard, got off around Lafayette. Walked south on that street until Greene Avenue, then east to Patchen. The streets between Malcolm X and Patchen are extremely long. Many beautiful Brownstones on Greene, as on other streets that I spied as I walked up Patchen. Neighborhood fairly quiet at that time (around 3:00 P.M.) Found the bar, the Welky, which I wanted to explore on the corner of Monroe and Patchen. It seems to arise out of nowhere, somewhat out of character for the neighborhood. Just opened, bartender sitting at the bar, by himself, seemingly doing some "bar work". I decided not to go in----could predict the discussion that I might have with this guy if he were willing to talk. Also stomach fairly full, could not bring myself to order a beer. So I continued south on Patchen, my destination Fulton, from where I would either take a bus or a train to the Junction and pick up the L back to Jefferson and Cobra. Reached Fulton and opted for the bus. Watched as it traveled the most eastern streets of Bed Stuy and arrived at the Junction. Still find this kind of traveling fascinating, want to do more of it before it gets cold---will I have the time? Got the L back to Manhattan quickly (though I was very tempted to explore in the other direction) and hit Cobra--read some of the Times, too tired to concentrate much on the Steeler-Cowboy game. When I left I was truly exhausted. Just took the L back to Manhattan and 2 home. Asleep very soon afterwards, slept the sleep of sleeps, could feel my body just going with it---this continued all night--I suppose it was necessary after the four days of work at Friends and heavy session on Saturday.
Return to Friends tomorrow for two days and a final one on Friday. Thanksgiving is upon us soon. It seems very early this year. Must go to the maps and look at where I was yesterday. Will report next time.
Saturday, November 12, 2016
Saturday morning....
after four straight days at Friends. Not much to add to the election that hasn't been said. I had worked in the library that day, after a full day, so I was extremely tired, listened all night at home, could barely believe my ears...felt at time like an eight year old child, waiting for his parent to return, hoping that he would, refusing to admit the impossible. But it did happen, many thoughts about it on many different levels---spoke in meeting for the first time on Wednesday morning. Lots of unhappy thoughts in meeting. Trying hard to identify with groups that really feel threatened by the victory. Will see what happens.
Yesterday" saw ,movie Elle, after a long week not sure what I wanted to do, or whether it was even appropriate to focus on something other than the elections ramifications, but did decide to go out to a movie---better than going to a bar and watching basketball. Had to get out of the apartment. Movie is strong, fascinating, about a hell on earth that all the characters inhabit. Verhoeven uses a brief snippet of Magic Flute music to create a contrast---the beautiful flute moment when Pamina and Tamino finally come together and experience purification, or divine commitment. Wonder how many other people watching the movie realized that.
Not sure about the rest of the weekend, What I do tonight depends on how tired I feel after work.
Tomorrow would like to "escape" watching football--probably will say nothing about the election in the coffee shops that I visit. We will see.
Yesterday" saw ,movie Elle, after a long week not sure what I wanted to do, or whether it was even appropriate to focus on something other than the elections ramifications, but did decide to go out to a movie---better than going to a bar and watching basketball. Had to get out of the apartment. Movie is strong, fascinating, about a hell on earth that all the characters inhabit. Verhoeven uses a brief snippet of Magic Flute music to create a contrast---the beautiful flute moment when Pamina and Tamino finally come together and experience purification, or divine commitment. Wonder how many other people watching the movie realized that.
Not sure about the rest of the weekend, What I do tonight depends on how tired I feel after work.
Tomorrow would like to "escape" watching football--probably will say nothing about the election in the coffee shops that I visit. We will see.
Monday, November 7, 2016
here I am...
in the Lincoln Center library, Monday morning, so, as you may have assumed, no work at Friends for me today (do have three days later in the week) . Interesting, having worked so much at Friends in the last two weeks, waking up and getting through the early part of the morning when there is no work creates a very different pace for me and a very different set of feelings. A little raw this morning, things are falling into place now.
Some reports:
Saturday evening, off to Bushwick to see Miles for Mary, the much praised theater piece being presented at the Bushwick Starr. Really disappointed---this is a very realistic visit to a school faculty set up in the late eighties. The cast seems totally focused into these spaces---they make incisions into their roles. But an hour and a half with this group and their griping and mind games playing as they plan a benefit, left me with nothing but empty feelings. These people were just not interesting enough, and the one change from beginning to end---a change that involved only two out of the five most important people in the play---is still pretty mild. I think they got lost in their own vision. Interesting to be at a theater that I attend so regularly and see so many faces that I have never seen there before---also majority of people in the audience much older than the usual group at the Starr. After play, went over to the Left Hand Path, a little down the road on Wycoff and received my free beer. No tv at that place, but really enjoyed the ambiance, would like to return there some time soon, of course also would like to pay a visit to the Starr Bar---the new place created by Mayday Space. After leaving felt a hunger pain and visited the new pizza place on Wycoff and Troutman, the space that used to house Northeast Kingdom (once the only restaurant in Bushwick, if you can believe that)
Kind of rushed, but did have a nice large piece of artichoke pizza, very enjoyable. Toyed with the idea of staying around, but headed home for some rest.
Sunday, two rounds of football at both South Fourth and Cobra Club. Feel very well liked at these places---enjoy talking football with friend at South Fourth and James, the bartender at Cobra. They know the game well, and make good statements to which I can dialogue with. Hard to watch football all day, though, at some point I feel played out---often on Sunday I am tired around 6 or 7 and want to go home and take it easy, but yesterday, having the extra rest from the one hour gained during the change of time zones for the city, felt no need to sleep so went to see Fire at Sea at the Lincoln Plaza cinema, and intense documentary about the refugees from Nigeria and other African countries that arrive in Sicily from Libya after excruciating journeys. Very intense doc---see the rescues and the way the refugees are treated and processed after the reach asylum carefully. Very odd, that I was the only one in the screening room (one of six in the movie theater); I don't know if I have ever experienced that before---very surreal experience, I kept having fantasies that the movie workers would lock up and leave me there over night. Of course this did not happen, but it is just strange to be watching a movie this way by one self, especially if it is a totally serious movie.
That is the weekend, not sure about tonight, both Jenufa and the Harvest are possibilities, but probably will wait until around 5 to make the decision. Will let you know, and tomorrow, I hope to be out of the house by 5:35. to line up to vote at my polling place.
Some reports:
Saturday evening, off to Bushwick to see Miles for Mary, the much praised theater piece being presented at the Bushwick Starr. Really disappointed---this is a very realistic visit to a school faculty set up in the late eighties. The cast seems totally focused into these spaces---they make incisions into their roles. But an hour and a half with this group and their griping and mind games playing as they plan a benefit, left me with nothing but empty feelings. These people were just not interesting enough, and the one change from beginning to end---a change that involved only two out of the five most important people in the play---is still pretty mild. I think they got lost in their own vision. Interesting to be at a theater that I attend so regularly and see so many faces that I have never seen there before---also majority of people in the audience much older than the usual group at the Starr. After play, went over to the Left Hand Path, a little down the road on Wycoff and received my free beer. No tv at that place, but really enjoyed the ambiance, would like to return there some time soon, of course also would like to pay a visit to the Starr Bar---the new place created by Mayday Space. After leaving felt a hunger pain and visited the new pizza place on Wycoff and Troutman, the space that used to house Northeast Kingdom (once the only restaurant in Bushwick, if you can believe that)
Kind of rushed, but did have a nice large piece of artichoke pizza, very enjoyable. Toyed with the idea of staying around, but headed home for some rest.
Sunday, two rounds of football at both South Fourth and Cobra Club. Feel very well liked at these places---enjoy talking football with friend at South Fourth and James, the bartender at Cobra. They know the game well, and make good statements to which I can dialogue with. Hard to watch football all day, though, at some point I feel played out---often on Sunday I am tired around 6 or 7 and want to go home and take it easy, but yesterday, having the extra rest from the one hour gained during the change of time zones for the city, felt no need to sleep so went to see Fire at Sea at the Lincoln Plaza cinema, and intense documentary about the refugees from Nigeria and other African countries that arrive in Sicily from Libya after excruciating journeys. Very intense doc---see the rescues and the way the refugees are treated and processed after the reach asylum carefully. Very odd, that I was the only one in the screening room (one of six in the movie theater); I don't know if I have ever experienced that before---very surreal experience, I kept having fantasies that the movie workers would lock up and leave me there over night. Of course this did not happen, but it is just strange to be watching a movie this way by one self, especially if it is a totally serious movie.
That is the weekend, not sure about tonight, both Jenufa and the Harvest are possibilities, but probably will wait until around 5 to make the decision. Will let you know, and tomorrow, I hope to be out of the house by 5:35. to line up to vote at my polling place.
Saturday, November 5, 2016
what to do....
on a free day. Tonight will head to Bushwick to see the project of the Mad Ones (always forget the title) which I have heard great things about. Always fun to go out to Bushwick, many friends at the Starr, always seem to meet people I know from "the universe" that is the downtown theater universe that I travel in.
Before that? Not sure, should check out at least one movie that I want to see (there are several) but on a day like today (a really nice fall day) would like to spend most of it outside. Woke up this morning, thought it might be nice to explore Ditmas Park, but it is so far away from Bushwick. Also, energy level is low this morning (have not eaten yet) so that might also play into plans. Really not sure,will figure it out when I leave here.
Yesterday, two "altercations" (seriously), the first in the Saint Marks library with a hostile black man who accused me of taking his space and the second at the in my seat at DUAT, the play that I saw yesterday----no real problems from either (although I got out of the library very quickly) but the second could have had some serious ramifications---this gentleman who apparently just walked into the play at intermission took my seat and did not understand that he had to give it up, When he finally did, his whole body fell on me (he must have been stoned) but I absorbed the fall pretty well. Was a little shaken up but continued through the amazing second act of DUAT--the musical that I was seeing. No continuing problems there either, I suppose someone else might have decided to sue Soho rep, but with all the problems that they have now (no permanent space) I don't think they need any more hassles.
But the musical DUAT (or half musical, since the first act is music free) was a very deeply felt look in depth at a black man in his forties. Very inventive, full of ideas of depth---very deeply layered, with (as usual) a terrific cast. Went because one of the seventh grade students at Friends was in it (he actually has the second most stage time in the play) but also met my friend (and former Friends student Dylan and his husband, a really nice guy named Todd) Was lucky enough to get a free ticket, courtesy of one of the Friends mothers---who was there with her two daughters and a friend, but who really needed to relax and take a break during the two hours of the play. It all worked out very well.
Afterwards, a great piece of pizza at the Two Boots on Avenue A (they are by far the most superior Two Boots) and then straight home---I was tired from the play and the full day at Friends, that went before it.
Tomorrow, probably will visit my Brooklyn "places" (maybe also watch some of the marathon from Bedford Avenue) and relax watching football and chatting. Perhaps some side trips as well. Sunday might seem like a good day to catch up on some plays and films, but somehow, I am more attached to 'hanging out" and finding enjoyment in real life encounters.
Will report on it soon.
Before that? Not sure, should check out at least one movie that I want to see (there are several) but on a day like today (a really nice fall day) would like to spend most of it outside. Woke up this morning, thought it might be nice to explore Ditmas Park, but it is so far away from Bushwick. Also, energy level is low this morning (have not eaten yet) so that might also play into plans. Really not sure,will figure it out when I leave here.
Yesterday, two "altercations" (seriously), the first in the Saint Marks library with a hostile black man who accused me of taking his space and the second at the in my seat at DUAT, the play that I saw yesterday----no real problems from either (although I got out of the library very quickly) but the second could have had some serious ramifications---this gentleman who apparently just walked into the play at intermission took my seat and did not understand that he had to give it up, When he finally did, his whole body fell on me (he must have been stoned) but I absorbed the fall pretty well. Was a little shaken up but continued through the amazing second act of DUAT--the musical that I was seeing. No continuing problems there either, I suppose someone else might have decided to sue Soho rep, but with all the problems that they have now (no permanent space) I don't think they need any more hassles.
But the musical DUAT (or half musical, since the first act is music free) was a very deeply felt look in depth at a black man in his forties. Very inventive, full of ideas of depth---very deeply layered, with (as usual) a terrific cast. Went because one of the seventh grade students at Friends was in it (he actually has the second most stage time in the play) but also met my friend (and former Friends student Dylan and his husband, a really nice guy named Todd) Was lucky enough to get a free ticket, courtesy of one of the Friends mothers---who was there with her two daughters and a friend, but who really needed to relax and take a break during the two hours of the play. It all worked out very well.
Afterwards, a great piece of pizza at the Two Boots on Avenue A (they are by far the most superior Two Boots) and then straight home---I was tired from the play and the full day at Friends, that went before it.
Tomorrow, probably will visit my Brooklyn "places" (maybe also watch some of the marathon from Bedford Avenue) and relax watching football and chatting. Perhaps some side trips as well. Sunday might seem like a good day to catch up on some plays and films, but somehow, I am more attached to 'hanging out" and finding enjoyment in real life encounters.
Will report on it soon.
Thursday, November 3, 2016
here we are....
Thursday, after three days of work mainly with the middle school (sixth and seventh grade). Feel good, made some good connections with the kids in those two grades, got to like Larry's class (they were the official class during the time) a great deal. No difficult kids. Return to Friends tomorrow and then at least three days next week (Powell house trip). I wonder if any forums are scheduled for the day after the election---or will it just be teaching as usual. There is a discussion group scheduled today, around what I would call "perceived prejudice" , that my friend Jason is leading---sadly I can not attend, because of the session that I have with a third grade student at the library. Really sorry, would like to go. Hopefully there will be some more to attend.
Of course, everyone is thinking and commenting on the coming election. Only five more days, or so Yet I am sure the bars will be fiiled with guys watching football this Sunday, and the next Sunday, come what may. Very little interest in connecting a football saturated society to what is going on in America today.
Saturday, saw A Taste of Honey with my friend Robin, not bad, kept seeing Joan Plowright and the others performing at the Lyceum, that Friday evening in late 1960---interesting, Kennedy was just about to be inaugurated---lots of hope and promise in the air---and now? Play does not have the strength that I felt when I saw it then, but there is still some good stuff in it. It is "workable" I would say. Performances were hard working---girl playing Jo had much less charisma then Ms. Plowright (then living with, and expecting the baby of, Laurence Olivier) but she got the sadness and isolation of the role Mother's role is more important then I remembered it---this actress was direct, made her points. After the play, got a cab for Robin, then walked down ninth, looking for a place to eat, finally settled on a "Greek diner" around 58th and ninth, had a not bad BLT---kind of liked the place---not much else to say. Sunday, spent most of the day at South fourth, watching football having some interesting conversations---was tired around 6, so after wandering around the Kent Avenue corridor from Metropolitan to North 7th (very cold and overdeveloped) returned home via the L. Had hoped to take the 62, and go through Greenpoint and some of Queens, but the bus took forever (really, I waited on North 7th about 25 minutes) so opted for the L, which, of course, came immediately.
Tuesday evening, a good meeting at BAN---some interesting plans ahead---the Tuner Place protest was reported---sorry that I missed it, sound like it could have been meaningful.
Tenants meeting tonight, then back to work tomorrow---nothing after 3 planned as yet, may want to see something, but may be too tired. Will see. Saturday, off to Bushwick in the evening to see the Mad One's play there. Will report further...
Of course, everyone is thinking and commenting on the coming election. Only five more days, or so Yet I am sure the bars will be fiiled with guys watching football this Sunday, and the next Sunday, come what may. Very little interest in connecting a football saturated society to what is going on in America today.
Saturday, saw A Taste of Honey with my friend Robin, not bad, kept seeing Joan Plowright and the others performing at the Lyceum, that Friday evening in late 1960---interesting, Kennedy was just about to be inaugurated---lots of hope and promise in the air---and now? Play does not have the strength that I felt when I saw it then, but there is still some good stuff in it. It is "workable" I would say. Performances were hard working---girl playing Jo had much less charisma then Ms. Plowright (then living with, and expecting the baby of, Laurence Olivier) but she got the sadness and isolation of the role Mother's role is more important then I remembered it---this actress was direct, made her points. After the play, got a cab for Robin, then walked down ninth, looking for a place to eat, finally settled on a "Greek diner" around 58th and ninth, had a not bad BLT---kind of liked the place---not much else to say. Sunday, spent most of the day at South fourth, watching football having some interesting conversations---was tired around 6, so after wandering around the Kent Avenue corridor from Metropolitan to North 7th (very cold and overdeveloped) returned home via the L. Had hoped to take the 62, and go through Greenpoint and some of Queens, but the bus took forever (really, I waited on North 7th about 25 minutes) so opted for the L, which, of course, came immediately.
Tuesday evening, a good meeting at BAN---some interesting plans ahead---the Tuner Place protest was reported---sorry that I missed it, sound like it could have been meaningful.
Tenants meeting tonight, then back to work tomorrow---nothing after 3 planned as yet, may want to see something, but may be too tired. Will see. Saturday, off to Bushwick in the evening to see the Mad One's play there. Will report further...