kind of relaxed.....

as I have work at Friends tomorrow---and a pretty realistic structure for today---so things are "cool", you might say. Still, some interesting events to report from yesterday, so here goes.
  By far the most important event from the day, was the forum-discussion lead by the excellent blogger who describes the daily doings around the Atlantic yards project and how if effects the neighborhood residents. A large group, around 40 attended.We were treated to a short history of the project, how it was allowed to happen, what the cost was, whether any of that cost will be made back, and other meaningful issues surrounding the building of Barclays Center. What was most interesting was the questions and feedback, after the first presentation. The majority of the people in attendance were from the neighborhood---and had witnessed first hand the developer's relentless pursuit of the project despite neighborhood resistance, and were angry at the situation as it now stands. Other people from other groups, fighting against development in Brooklyn were also there. The blogger was very even handed in his approach---he feels that this is important--he is a reporter and must be impartial--the sense of the majority of the audience was one of frustration and disenfranchisement. How long will this go on? All over the city, among all different classes and races, there is a feeling that the needs of the "common people" are not being listened to by their elected officials. So what now? Can these groups band together---can they find a common candidate (at least in four years) who will represent them first?  This, it seems to me, are where we are now.
  For me the discussion was productive---I told two people about BAN, and hopefully they (or even more people) will come to the next meeting to be held on the 16th. A good choice for the evening.
   Earlier, I saw a film from the 40's, part of the Mitchum retrospective that the NYFF is holding this year, Called, Till the End of Time, the main character (played by a young Guy Madison) is a returning World War II veteran, trying to readjust after three years in combat. Lots of interesting interludes, as he integrates himself (and some of his friends) into peace time. The movie is beautifully shot in black and white---and extremely well written. I was in it from the beginning. Very glad that I saw it. Lots of movies around now that are interesting---not sure how many (if at all) I will check out on this long weekend that is coming up.
   Today, my plan is to visit La Flaca and watch some of the playoffs---also discuss with my friend Bob, the owner, his problems with his landlord and the grotesque terms that the latter wants in the next lease renewal. Hopefully, I can offer some concrete help.
  Anyway, will report on all this soon..