And I am a Darwinian Girl.
Remember that Classic 80s Madonna song, Material Girl? Well, that tune was chiming in my head all day. Of course I had to modify the words slighty to make them Apple-centric and relevant to this very day.
We live in a Darwinian world, gang. And I am one Darwinian Girl.
Lately, I've been hearing a lot about "the" change. You talk too fast. Watch that vernacular. Don't be a workaholic. You sound more aggressive. Don't get too coarse.
These are the things you hear from everyone you knew before you moved to New York City and started to assimilate to the new surroundings.
One day, just after a friend of mine had moved to New York City, and into an apartment on the Upper East Side, she showed up at my door with a look of disgust frozen on her face.
"What happened?" I asked.
Her eyebrows were raised in disbelief.
"These brats were riding their bikes past me. And, after the second one passed by, she looked back at me, and she spit! On me! That twerp actually spit on me! In my face!...Who are these kids?"
Now, if you knew this individual, who was spat on, and the good-hearted kindness she exudes you would have been miffed, too.
"Did you spit back at them?" I asked.
No, of course she hadn't spit back at them. What recent NYC transplant could? Shock and utter disbelief prevent any such recourse.
But only for so many weeks, or months.
My question: When exactly does it happen? When do you first steal a cab from another person who had been waiting or was too plastered to actually step into the cab before you could. On what wet, snowy day does it become Ok to say "nope" to a bag lady wandering in the sock aisle at Rite Aid when she pleads with you to buy her socks? When does seeing people picking through trash cans with their filthy bare hands become routine? How long does it take for blindness to strike?
I used to think it so sad to see the kids in my African village, Kouande, root through my trash before I would burn it. They'd grasp for empty plastic water bottles as if they were nuggets of pure gold.
And yet, here, scenes of a similar nature are ubiquitous. But I don't seem to really see them. Or if I do, I see them in a different way.
When does it become a bothersome pleasure to speed-walk past people in the street who are taking up to much space and walking too slow. When did weaving in between New York City striders on rainy days become a pleasure, especially with those folks who carry those gargantuan beach umbrellas, you know, the ones that hog vast swaths of sidewalk real estate.
There is one small way to give back. When you're gutting your closet of last season's winter clothing, keep in mind the places in the Upper East Side where you can donate clothing. It can be one small way to keep it real. To keep it human.
Go here to see 6 ways you can help the homeless today.
Some options for clothing giveaways:
Dress for Success
To schedule a Salvation Army pick up of clothing call:
1-800-95-TRUCK (87825)
Goodwill: East 88th Street and 2nd Avenue
Got a tip on how/where to donate in the UES? Pass it on in a comment below.
From One Darwinian to Another:
Keep thriving.
Your Girl About Town
5/31/2006
We Live in a Darwinian World
And I am a Darwinian Girl.
Remember that Classic 80s Madonna song, Material Girl? Well, that tune was chiming in my head all day. Of course I had to modify the words slighty to make them Apple-centric and relevant to this very day.
We live in a Darwinian world, gang. And I am one Darwinian Girl.
Lately, I've been hearing a lot about "the" change. You talk too fast. Watch that vernacular. Don't be a workaholic. You sound more aggressive. Don't get too coarse.
These are the things you hear from everyone you knew before you moved to New York City and started to assimilate to the new surroundings.
One day, just after a friend of mine had moved to New York City, and into an apartment on the Upper East Side, she showed up at my door with a look of disgust frozen on her face.
"What happened?" I asked.
Her eyebrows were raised in disbelief.
"These brats were riding their bikes past me. And, after the second one passed by, she looked back at me, and she spit! On me! That twerp actually spit on me! In my face!...Who are these kids?"
Now, if you knew this individual, who was spat on, and the good-hearted kindness she exudes you would have been miffed, too.
"Did you spit back at them?" I asked.
No, of course she hadn't spit back at them. What recent NYC transplant could? Shock and utter disbelief prevent any such recourse.
But only for so many weeks, or months.
My question: When exactly does it happen? When do you first steal a cab from another person who had been waiting or was too plastered to actually step into the cab before you could. On what wet, snowy day does it become Ok to say "nope" to a bag lady wandering in the sock aisle at Rite Aid when she pleads with you to buy her socks? When does seeing people picking through trash cans with their filthy bare hands become routine? How long does it take for blindness to strike?
I used to think it so sad to see the kids in my African village, Kouande, root through my trash before I would burn it. They'd grasp for empty plastic water bottles as if they were nuggets of pure gold.
And yet, here, scenes of a similar nature are ubiquitous. But I don't seem to really see them. Or if I do, I see them in a different way.
When does it become a bothersome pleasure to speed-walk past people in the street who are taking up to much space and walking too slow. When did weaving in between New York City striders on rainy days become a pleasure, especially with those folks who carry those gargantuan beach umbrellas, you know, the ones that hog vast swaths of sidewalk real estate.
There is one small way to give back. When you're gutting your closet of last season's winter clothing, keep in mind the places in the Upper East Side where you can donate clothing. It can be one small way to keep it real. To keep it human.
Go here to see 6 ways you can help the homeless today.
Some options for clothing giveaways:
Dress for Success
To schedule a Salvation Army pick up of clothing call:
1-800-95-TRUCK (87825)
Goodwill: East 88th Street and 2nd Avenue
Got a tip on how/where to donate in the UES? Pass it on in a comment below.
From One Darwinian to Another:
Keep thriving.
Your Girl About Town
Remember that Classic 80s Madonna song, Material Girl? Well, that tune was chiming in my head all day. Of course I had to modify the words slighty to make them Apple-centric and relevant to this very day.
We live in a Darwinian world, gang. And I am one Darwinian Girl.
Lately, I've been hearing a lot about "the" change. You talk too fast. Watch that vernacular. Don't be a workaholic. You sound more aggressive. Don't get too coarse.
These are the things you hear from everyone you knew before you moved to New York City and started to assimilate to the new surroundings.
One day, just after a friend of mine had moved to New York City, and into an apartment on the Upper East Side, she showed up at my door with a look of disgust frozen on her face.
"What happened?" I asked.
Her eyebrows were raised in disbelief.
"These brats were riding their bikes past me. And, after the second one passed by, she looked back at me, and she spit! On me! That twerp actually spit on me! In my face!...Who are these kids?"
Now, if you knew this individual, who was spat on, and the good-hearted kindness she exudes you would have been miffed, too.
"Did you spit back at them?" I asked.
No, of course she hadn't spit back at them. What recent NYC transplant could? Shock and utter disbelief prevent any such recourse.
But only for so many weeks, or months.
My question: When exactly does it happen? When do you first steal a cab from another person who had been waiting or was too plastered to actually step into the cab before you could. On what wet, snowy day does it become Ok to say "nope" to a bag lady wandering in the sock aisle at Rite Aid when she pleads with you to buy her socks? When does seeing people picking through trash cans with their filthy bare hands become routine? How long does it take for blindness to strike?
I used to think it so sad to see the kids in my African village, Kouande, root through my trash before I would burn it. They'd grasp for empty plastic water bottles as if they were nuggets of pure gold.
And yet, here, scenes of a similar nature are ubiquitous. But I don't seem to really see them. Or if I do, I see them in a different way.
When does it become a bothersome pleasure to speed-walk past people in the street who are taking up to much space and walking too slow. When did weaving in between New York City striders on rainy days become a pleasure, especially with those folks who carry those gargantuan beach umbrellas, you know, the ones that hog vast swaths of sidewalk real estate.
There is one small way to give back. When you're gutting your closet of last season's winter clothing, keep in mind the places in the Upper East Side where you can donate clothing. It can be one small way to keep it real. To keep it human.
Go here to see 6 ways you can help the homeless today.
Some options for clothing giveaways:
Dress for Success
To schedule a Salvation Army pick up of clothing call:
1-800-95-TRUCK (87825)
Goodwill: East 88th Street and 2nd Avenue
Got a tip on how/where to donate in the UES? Pass it on in a comment below.
From One Darwinian to Another:
Keep thriving.
Your Girl About Town
5/25/2006
Deflated Ego
Poor Cooper-Hewitt. I read in the Times today that the National Design Museum's plans for a $75 million mega-expansion have been winnowed down to a $25 million renovation plan involving changes smaller in scope that promise less awe-inspiring appeal than the original makeover wish-list that included the construction of three subterranean levels.
Click here for specifics of the redesign/expansion plan.
In other Cooper-Hewitt news, there's an exhibition now on display that's worth checking out. "Tourism and the American Landscape" captures a pioneering time in America, one that was defined by discovery and geographic exploration of the vast North American continent. The paintings of Frederic Church, Winslow Homer, and Thomas Moran date from the 19th Century and are on display now through October 22, 2006. Here's a sampling of what you'll find. From top to Frederic Church, Winslow Homer, and Thomas Moran.
Your Girl About Town
Click here for specifics of the redesign/expansion plan.
In other Cooper-Hewitt news, there's an exhibition now on display that's worth checking out. "Tourism and the American Landscape" captures a pioneering time in America, one that was defined by discovery and geographic exploration of the vast North American continent. The paintings of Frederic Church, Winslow Homer, and Thomas Moran date from the 19th Century and are on display now through October 22, 2006. Here's a sampling of what you'll find. From top to Frederic Church, Winslow Homer, and Thomas Moran.
Your Girl About Town
Love, Sex, Politics, Relationships
I don't like to think of myself as a provocateuse, but tell me, how many people could pass up a conversation along such lines?
Throw in these speakers: femme risque and author Erica Jong, blogger Andrew Sullivan (Yes, you've heard of him--he's an essayist for Time magazine and was an editor at The New Republic) and sex columnist for the internationally syndicated column, Savage Love, Dan Savage himself, and that makes for some scintillating chit-chat.
Be party to the discussion at "Love, Sex, Politics, and Relationships" taking place at the 92nd Street Y on May 30 at 8:15pm. Cost: $25. (Students: that tattered card in your wallet will get you a discount).
Sadly, I'll be out-of-town on May 30th.
Take good notes for me, will ya?
Your Girl About Town
Throw in these speakers: femme risque and author Erica Jong, blogger Andrew Sullivan (Yes, you've heard of him--he's an essayist for Time magazine and was an editor at The New Republic) and sex columnist for the internationally syndicated column, Savage Love, Dan Savage himself, and that makes for some scintillating chit-chat.
Be party to the discussion at "Love, Sex, Politics, and Relationships" taking place at the 92nd Street Y on May 30 at 8:15pm. Cost: $25. (Students: that tattered card in your wallet will get you a discount).
Sadly, I'll be out-of-town on May 30th.
Take good notes for me, will ya?
Your Girl About Town
5/22/2006
Summertime
There's no surer sign of summer's arrival than looking at your watch, seeing it's almost 8pm, and realizing it's still light out. Yippee!
Valerie and I had a girls night on Saturday. One of the things I like most about the Upper East Side is that when you're seeking a low-key evening, all you have to do is walk out your door and new places to eat, people to meet, things to do abound.
We ended up at Panorama. In part because I had walked past this place so many times, marveling at how cute and Mediterranean it looked--what with its second-story terraces marked by mint-green lattice work (terraces which, by the way, you can eat on by the warm glow of candlelight) and outdoor dining--that it was high time to satiate the curiosity. And, one glance at the menu told us the price was right (entrees start at $13; order a sandwich for $9). In line was the vibe, too. (Not up for white linen table cloths, I was flying au naturelle in my tee shirt and flip flops.)
We initially sat outside, but as our teeth began chattering, were soon drawn to the body heat and lively chatter an inside table could offer. Panorama is prime for the people watching. I'd go as far as to say that's one of the real draws here. And, what did I notice? Older, elderly couples.
That's right.
Now, before you "Awww Shucks" me on this one, promise me you'll keep your eyes peeled for older,elderly couples when dining at Panorama. That is to say, pick your table wisely. You're going to want good seats for this feel-good viewing.
White tufts of hair spurting every which way, thick black-rimmed bifocals inching down the nose, garments to the nines (down to the flowing scarves and tilted hats). And best yet, each couple holding hands as they shuffle past.
Every single one of these wrinkled, freckled couples meandering past had hands intertwined, palm touching palm, fingers interlocked. Now I know we've all heard the ominous numbers: 50% of marriages will meet their demise in divorce. But, Take that, Stats! Fifty percent of marriages will also end in evening strolls down the neighborhood block, however long a neighborhood block may take to clear when you're nearing 90 years of age.
With interest, my eyes followed these couples as they exited one window of view and entered another: Not a measured step off beat. They were in it to win it...together. Every careful step in sync, every motion flowing into the next as a routine matter of course. This is real love, y'all. The till-death-do-you-part, grow-old-together variety.
So, there we sat, Val and I, shoveling huge helpings of pasta into our mouths (Truth be told, it was only I who was doing that, Val's from Texas and has proper Southern manners)Combine a hefty plate of pasta with a salad or glass of Yellow Tail and spend just $20, with tip. The Rigatoni Alla Boscaiola ($9.95) has a creamy sauce that's divine--with baby green peas and mushrooms. We were chatting away, sipping on wine and water, taking our time. I appreciate a restaurant where you aren't hurried out as soon as the check is paid.
After dinner, ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery, directly across the street, was a given.
Though I had often passed by the lines snaking outside this place, I had never gone in. Once inside, the A-haa moment struck.
I read the flavor names: Breathless Boston Cream Pie, Chocolate Devotion, Banana Caramel Crunch, just to tempt you with a few. Here, you watch your ice cream flavor being made, and as I peered over the glass, I felt all the joy of anticipation. This is not your Tasty-D looks-but-doesn't-taste-like ice cream. No, this is the real deal and the process of making the goods is quite theatrical. Scoops of vanilla are swooshed onto a strip of "cold stone." Holes are carved into the scoop to make room for the nuts, fresh banana slices, caramel and chocolate that will pour in. Standing there, watching, anticipating, your mouth is sure to salivate. But, just before your tongue starts to drip spit onto the floor, you will be handed a cup of chunky, melty, gooey ice cream.
Remember Cold Stone. Broke up with your boyfriend? Accomplished your goal of working out three times a week? Had a fight with your best friend? Missed a deadline at work? Cold Stone is a friend who won't let you down.
Now that I'm moving into a place with a slightly larger kitchen, one that has corner enough for a dining table, I imagine I'll be cooking at home more with friends. My dining out nights may be limited. But, while it lasts, I'm enjoying not having to do the dishes after putting down my fork.
Your Girl About Town
Valerie and I had a girls night on Saturday. One of the things I like most about the Upper East Side is that when you're seeking a low-key evening, all you have to do is walk out your door and new places to eat, people to meet, things to do abound.
We ended up at Panorama. In part because I had walked past this place so many times, marveling at how cute and Mediterranean it looked--what with its second-story terraces marked by mint-green lattice work (terraces which, by the way, you can eat on by the warm glow of candlelight) and outdoor dining--that it was high time to satiate the curiosity. And, one glance at the menu told us the price was right (entrees start at $13; order a sandwich for $9). In line was the vibe, too. (Not up for white linen table cloths, I was flying au naturelle in my tee shirt and flip flops.)
We initially sat outside, but as our teeth began chattering, were soon drawn to the body heat and lively chatter an inside table could offer. Panorama is prime for the people watching. I'd go as far as to say that's one of the real draws here. And, what did I notice? Older, elderly couples.
That's right.
Now, before you "Awww Shucks" me on this one, promise me you'll keep your eyes peeled for older,elderly couples when dining at Panorama. That is to say, pick your table wisely. You're going to want good seats for this feel-good viewing.
White tufts of hair spurting every which way, thick black-rimmed bifocals inching down the nose, garments to the nines (down to the flowing scarves and tilted hats). And best yet, each couple holding hands as they shuffle past.
Every single one of these wrinkled, freckled couples meandering past had hands intertwined, palm touching palm, fingers interlocked. Now I know we've all heard the ominous numbers: 50% of marriages will meet their demise in divorce. But, Take that, Stats! Fifty percent of marriages will also end in evening strolls down the neighborhood block, however long a neighborhood block may take to clear when you're nearing 90 years of age.
With interest, my eyes followed these couples as they exited one window of view and entered another: Not a measured step off beat. They were in it to win it...together. Every careful step in sync, every motion flowing into the next as a routine matter of course. This is real love, y'all. The till-death-do-you-part, grow-old-together variety.
So, there we sat, Val and I, shoveling huge helpings of pasta into our mouths (Truth be told, it was only I who was doing that, Val's from Texas and has proper Southern manners)Combine a hefty plate of pasta with a salad or glass of Yellow Tail and spend just $20, with tip. The Rigatoni Alla Boscaiola ($9.95) has a creamy sauce that's divine--with baby green peas and mushrooms. We were chatting away, sipping on wine and water, taking our time. I appreciate a restaurant where you aren't hurried out as soon as the check is paid.
After dinner, ice cream at Cold Stone Creamery, directly across the street, was a given.
Though I had often passed by the lines snaking outside this place, I had never gone in. Once inside, the A-haa moment struck.
I read the flavor names: Breathless Boston Cream Pie, Chocolate Devotion, Banana Caramel Crunch, just to tempt you with a few. Here, you watch your ice cream flavor being made, and as I peered over the glass, I felt all the joy of anticipation. This is not your Tasty-D looks-but-doesn't-taste-like ice cream. No, this is the real deal and the process of making the goods is quite theatrical. Scoops of vanilla are swooshed onto a strip of "cold stone." Holes are carved into the scoop to make room for the nuts, fresh banana slices, caramel and chocolate that will pour in. Standing there, watching, anticipating, your mouth is sure to salivate. But, just before your tongue starts to drip spit onto the floor, you will be handed a cup of chunky, melty, gooey ice cream.
Remember Cold Stone. Broke up with your boyfriend? Accomplished your goal of working out three times a week? Had a fight with your best friend? Missed a deadline at work? Cold Stone is a friend who won't let you down.
Now that I'm moving into a place with a slightly larger kitchen, one that has corner enough for a dining table, I imagine I'll be cooking at home more with friends. My dining out nights may be limited. But, while it lasts, I'm enjoying not having to do the dishes after putting down my fork.
Your Girl About Town
5/15/2006
Run Your Heart Out
Are you in shape? I don't work out every night, sure, but I do enjoy a swift, solid run. A friend of mine just contacted me about the annual Wall Street Run taking place this Wednesday evening at 6:30pm. I'll be running with a bunch of friends from the "Fancy Dinner Night" group to which I belong. A bunch of us working girls get together once a month for a nice dinner and some semi-fine wine. The group of us running together will be a first. Look for pictures to follow on Thursday!
Register for the American Heart Association Wall Street Run & Heart Walk at:
New York Road Runners Office, 89th Street, between Madison and Fifth Avenues.
Cost: $35
Info: 212-878-5924
See you there!
Your Girl About Town
Register for the American Heart Association Wall Street Run & Heart Walk at:
New York Road Runners Office, 89th Street, between Madison and Fifth Avenues.
Cost: $35
Info: 212-878-5924
See you there!
Your Girl About Town
5/13/2006
When FUN is in the title
Ever have one of those weeks where Thursday strikes before you know it? You've been caught up in your groove, you're getting things done, crossing them off your list, then--bam!--it's Thursday. You miss your friends.
I hit up a few friends for a last-minute later-than-usual dinner Thursday. Cara suggested a restaurant called China Fun.
Ordinarily, if the word "Fun" is in any title, I'm hesitant. Isn't that just leading to a disappointment of some sort? Not only a promise of food, which is to be expected, but the robust promise of...Fun (?) Oh, the pressure. Can they follow through? Will the experience deliver? Too tall of an order from the onslaught for my gut instinct, too much of a gimmick. But, sometimes I need a good schooling, so I bit my tongue, grabbed my bag, started walking.
Here's what I like about the place: It's an open restaurant, well-lit and boisterous. When we got there at 8:30pm, China Fun was still full with people. We were seated right away and attended to. This is a great place for kids: There's a lot of room to move about, it's busy and loud, and there are plenty of visual distractions: a giant lobster tank, a rack of shiny glazed ducks hanging by the entrance, busy hands chopping and preparing sushi behind the counter. On this night, the service was quick--drinks refilled and plates ushered away, no problem. Bonus points: When I asked our waiter for a recommendation, his face lit up and he slumped over in a casual posture to rave about the garlic chicken ($9.50). There's also a wide range of Dim Sum items ranging from $1.50 Egg roles to $5.50 mixed dumplings ("fun" for a group of four or more.)Entrees run $9-20, and there is no shortage of spicy-hot fare.
Sold. Cara and I ordered the garlic chicken. Spicy and plentiful, the garlic chicken dish did not disappoint. And, the portion was so large that I had a little paper box to cart with me to work the following day. My other friend Vlad had the thinly- sliced sashimi. Colorful. And, such a bizarre texture, that sashimi.
So, if you are in the neighborhood of 2nd Avenue and 64th, you might want to give China Fun a go. Truth be told, it IS Fun to see your friends try and manuever chopsticks nonchalantly while carrying on a conversation. Plus, you end the meal on a 'fortune-cookie' note. My fortune? (Yes, of course I shoved that tiny sliver of paper into my wallet!)
"Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood."
Now that's some fun advice worth celebrating.
Go, and have Fun. Sorry guys, I've got some things to experience...and set about understanding.
Your "Fearless" Girl About Town
I hit up a few friends for a last-minute later-than-usual dinner Thursday. Cara suggested a restaurant called China Fun.
Ordinarily, if the word "Fun" is in any title, I'm hesitant. Isn't that just leading to a disappointment of some sort? Not only a promise of food, which is to be expected, but the robust promise of...Fun (?) Oh, the pressure. Can they follow through? Will the experience deliver? Too tall of an order from the onslaught for my gut instinct, too much of a gimmick. But, sometimes I need a good schooling, so I bit my tongue, grabbed my bag, started walking.
Here's what I like about the place: It's an open restaurant, well-lit and boisterous. When we got there at 8:30pm, China Fun was still full with people. We were seated right away and attended to. This is a great place for kids: There's a lot of room to move about, it's busy and loud, and there are plenty of visual distractions: a giant lobster tank, a rack of shiny glazed ducks hanging by the entrance, busy hands chopping and preparing sushi behind the counter. On this night, the service was quick--drinks refilled and plates ushered away, no problem. Bonus points: When I asked our waiter for a recommendation, his face lit up and he slumped over in a casual posture to rave about the garlic chicken ($9.50). There's also a wide range of Dim Sum items ranging from $1.50 Egg roles to $5.50 mixed dumplings ("fun" for a group of four or more.)Entrees run $9-20, and there is no shortage of spicy-hot fare.
Sold. Cara and I ordered the garlic chicken. Spicy and plentiful, the garlic chicken dish did not disappoint. And, the portion was so large that I had a little paper box to cart with me to work the following day. My other friend Vlad had the thinly- sliced sashimi. Colorful. And, such a bizarre texture, that sashimi.
So, if you are in the neighborhood of 2nd Avenue and 64th, you might want to give China Fun a go. Truth be told, it IS Fun to see your friends try and manuever chopsticks nonchalantly while carrying on a conversation. Plus, you end the meal on a 'fortune-cookie' note. My fortune? (Yes, of course I shoved that tiny sliver of paper into my wallet!)
"Nothing in life is to be feared. It is only to be understood."
Now that's some fun advice worth celebrating.
Go, and have Fun. Sorry guys, I've got some things to experience...and set about understanding.
Your "Fearless" Girl About Town
5/12/2006
SOUP FOR ALL
I was doing some maintance for the uppereast.com database website today and walked by this guy's restauraunt. Made famous by the "Seinfeld" show in 1995, "The Soup Man" has been a staple in New York City for even longer than it was first mentioned on "Seinfeld." I stopped in for a bite to eat (Chicken sandwich grilled, or something like that) and it was delicious. The owner has actually closed his original shop, I found out, on 55th street so that he can franchise it in the US and Canada. Funny.But more important than delicious sandwiches or the franchise industry, I found it interesting that even as a young kid, I knew the line "No Soup For You" from the Seinfeld show. I've never really watched Seinfeld, but I knew the line... I didn't know where it came from or what it was referencing, so when I moved to New York City it was funny to see it all come together. Funny how we retain things that we don't even know where they really originate from.
And in a completely unrelated story, I thought this was very interesting. I've never seen anything like this: There was a man on the street with one shoe clearly larger than the other... yet, it was the same type of shoe. I wasn't sure if it was for a medical condition, but this check out.
And in this next photograph, you can better see the size difference. The shoe actually made him limp on one end as he walked along. I was thankfully industrious enough to take out my camera in time to takea couple of shots. Just another interesting (and odd) day on the Upper East Side.
5/08/2006
9$ French Lesson
Let's be honest. On any given Tuesday evening, there's not much going on. And even if you find something ineresting, it can be tough to muster up the requisite go-and-do energy after a zapping workday. That's where Cinema Tuesdays can enter your life.
You'll have to nix the idea of being instantly wowed by the big screen as you chomp on buttery popcorn and slurp down a super-size Pepsi (there's no food and drink allowed in this theater---which may give away the secret to the popular book "French Women Don't Get Fat") But, if you're anything of the travel buff that I am, spending an hour or two listening to foreign tongues and gazing at distant landscapes can leave you feeling like you've experienced something rewarding and new. (Plus, you'd be hard-pressed to find a language class, or even a Craig's List language tutor for less than $25/hour)
NYU film professor Richard Brown gave an introductory talk before the film and planted some seeds for observation. The crowd was fairly large--of varying ages-- and was eager to participate in the talk. Brown spoke of the main difference between French and American films: Special effects. "La Saison Preferee" didn't involve 'special' effects...only very real, jarring effects. Brown went on to point out how remarkably different cultures can be, and yet, how strikingly similar. In the end, we are all humans who experience the same emotions. (Something I learned the first time I rode in the back of a pick up truck face-to-face with Fulani people in Benin: You may not speak a lick of someone else's language, but you intrinsicly grasp the meaning of a gentle grin, a pointing finger, a yelping child.)
"Ma Saison Preferee," directed by Andre Techine and starring Catherine Deneuve, delves into the richness of human relationships. There was no slapstick comedy, and no instant gratification found through breathtaking special effects. This movie built on dramas and tensions very real, familiar. Every relationship, brother-to-sister, parent-to-child, lover-to-lover, husband-to-wife is complex and involves a series of interactions and reactions, and a certain degree of exploration. So often, without realizing it, we define ourselves by the relationships we maintain. And as those intertwinings develop and change, aiding or hindering growth, we change.
So, even though I hate to utter that word, the movie was deep in a human, provocative, exploratory way...just asking for after-dinner "What do you make of that?" conversation. We chose the Cinema Cafe, but I wouldn't recomnend it. Around 10p.m.,when we got there, the place was dying down. And when we paid the bill, the staff was stacking chairs at surrounding tables. Next time, I'd keep rolling with the French theme, and try Bistro 60 at 37 East 60th Street. Added bonus: The atmosphere looks more authentic, you can sample fine French wines, and show your cinema ticket there and you'll get 15% taken off your total bill.
Tomorrow night, another Andre Techine film from 1981:
Hôtel des Amériques (Hotel of the Americas) starring Catherine Deneuve and Patrick Dewaere. What's it about? Another type of relationship, of course. One that's not familial, but a rather bizarre connection involving an anesthesiologist, a man hit by a car, and the woman was driving that car.Hmmmm.
Where: Florence Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street, $9 (students $7)
When: 7pm
A bientot!
Your Girl About Town
You'll have to nix the idea of being instantly wowed by the big screen as you chomp on buttery popcorn and slurp down a super-size Pepsi (there's no food and drink allowed in this theater---which may give away the secret to the popular book "French Women Don't Get Fat") But, if you're anything of the travel buff that I am, spending an hour or two listening to foreign tongues and gazing at distant landscapes can leave you feeling like you've experienced something rewarding and new. (Plus, you'd be hard-pressed to find a language class, or even a Craig's List language tutor for less than $25/hour)
NYU film professor Richard Brown gave an introductory talk before the film and planted some seeds for observation. The crowd was fairly large--of varying ages-- and was eager to participate in the talk. Brown spoke of the main difference between French and American films: Special effects. "La Saison Preferee" didn't involve 'special' effects...only very real, jarring effects. Brown went on to point out how remarkably different cultures can be, and yet, how strikingly similar. In the end, we are all humans who experience the same emotions. (Something I learned the first time I rode in the back of a pick up truck face-to-face with Fulani people in Benin: You may not speak a lick of someone else's language, but you intrinsicly grasp the meaning of a gentle grin, a pointing finger, a yelping child.)
"Ma Saison Preferee," directed by Andre Techine and starring Catherine Deneuve, delves into the richness of human relationships. There was no slapstick comedy, and no instant gratification found through breathtaking special effects. This movie built on dramas and tensions very real, familiar. Every relationship, brother-to-sister, parent-to-child, lover-to-lover, husband-to-wife is complex and involves a series of interactions and reactions, and a certain degree of exploration. So often, without realizing it, we define ourselves by the relationships we maintain. And as those intertwinings develop and change, aiding or hindering growth, we change.
So, even though I hate to utter that word, the movie was deep in a human, provocative, exploratory way...just asking for after-dinner "What do you make of that?" conversation. We chose the Cinema Cafe, but I wouldn't recomnend it. Around 10p.m.,when we got there, the place was dying down. And when we paid the bill, the staff was stacking chairs at surrounding tables. Next time, I'd keep rolling with the French theme, and try Bistro 60 at 37 East 60th Street. Added bonus: The atmosphere looks more authentic, you can sample fine French wines, and show your cinema ticket there and you'll get 15% taken off your total bill.
Tomorrow night, another Andre Techine film from 1981:
Hôtel des Amériques (Hotel of the Americas) starring Catherine Deneuve and Patrick Dewaere. What's it about? Another type of relationship, of course. One that's not familial, but a rather bizarre connection involving an anesthesiologist, a man hit by a car, and the woman was driving that car.Hmmmm.
Where: Florence Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street, $9 (students $7)
When: 7pm
A bientot!
Your Girl About Town
5/07/2006
It's a Shitzu World out there
I really don't like shitzus. In fact, small dogs really turn me off. I come from Maine - big dog land. Unluckily for me, because of the size of New York City apartments, most of New York dogs are small dogs. Like shitzus. Oy.
I was walking home for watching a speed boat on the river. You can see it beside the text. Who would go for a speed boat ride on the Hudson River? Not really sure, but I think I saw a shitzu on it.
AnywaysAs I was walking back home, I noticed a sub-level room filled with dogs running around in an open space. I realized it was a dog-sitting and exercise facility. The differences I see between Maine and New York City continue to amaze me. There's an excersizing facility that you can bring your dog to while you make the money - even on Sunday! Funny. The dogs look happy, though. And they weren't just shitzus. Thank God.
I think I've found myself a pet monopoly on First Avenue... here's why. If "Biscuits & Bath" doesn't satisfy your needs and you have a feline that needs a little TLC, next door is Feline Care. The half block is dedicated to pets.
So don't be catty and say we didn't tell you so... Your one stop shop for your dog or cat's care is on 80th and 1st. And, from the look at these pooches in the photos, it's sure to be a dog'on good time (pun intended both times).
I was walking home for watching a speed boat on the river. You can see it beside the text. Who would go for a speed boat ride on the Hudson River? Not really sure, but I think I saw a shitzu on it.
AnywaysAs I was walking back home, I noticed a sub-level room filled with dogs running around in an open space. I realized it was a dog-sitting and exercise facility. The differences I see between Maine and New York City continue to amaze me. There's an excersizing facility that you can bring your dog to while you make the money - even on Sunday! Funny. The dogs look happy, though. And they weren't just shitzus. Thank God.
I think I've found myself a pet monopoly on First Avenue... here's why. If "Biscuits & Bath" doesn't satisfy your needs and you have a feline that needs a little TLC, next door is Feline Care. The half block is dedicated to pets.
So don't be catty and say we didn't tell you so... Your one stop shop for your dog or cat's care is on 80th and 1st. And, from the look at these pooches in the photos, it's sure to be a dog'on good time (pun intended both times).
5/05/2006
The Street Fairs are Abound... at college?
Never before did I think a college had the power to shut down an entire block of New York City streets with elite Upper East Siders looking on... especially never MY school. But alas, Marymount Manhattan College managed to close down East 71st Street on May 3 for its annual Strawberry Festival. I had never heard of the festival before, I assumed there would be strawberrys. There were. And bananas.I love New York City outside summer street fairs. UpperEast.com will be attending a few in June and September if not more. There's something very New York City-centric about walking up 3rd Avenue on a hot July day and having vendors (and Scientologists!) try to sell you. The variety, the people, the food...
At my school's festival, there were lots of free food (a college students dream) and as you can see a pogo-stick challenge (or whatever those gladiator-like things are called). It was funny to watch the reactions of people on 71st Street look at their window listening to Beyonce. Upper East Siders + Beyonce and P. Diddy blarring outside their windows = some heck-of-a party on the Upper East Side!
5/02/2006
And By Appointment
I remember being intrigued about this man, Willem De Kooning, when I first heard about him in an art history I took class in college. This man who could not paint a woman who did not look all sorts of distorted. He'd paint an odd rendering of a woman and then strip the canvas; paint and strip the canvas; paint and strip the canvas. Eventually, the strokes of paint took shape in the form of a grostesque figure that looked like a bug-eyed alien and was titled "Woman IV."
Of course, this story about a painter's bizarre struggle captured my curiosity and held a place in my memory.
So you might imagine my interest when I saw a listing for a De Kooning show of a collection of his landscapes inspired by the environs of his East Hampton studio.
I'll certainly have to go and check it out.
This gallery, L&M Arts, is open to the public Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 - 5:30 ... or by appointment. Looks like I'll have to wait until the weekend.
These showings by appointment. I'm not entirely sure what that means or why one would get a private appointment unless they were interested in purchasing one of the paintings in which case they would want to whip out their checkbooks in priavte. If you want a private showing at a time more convenient for you, give a call and see if you can schedule an appointment, and let me know how that works out.
Tonight, I'm finally going to check out one of those Cinema Tuesdays at the Alliance Francaise. The movies are in French with English subtitles. The show starts at 7p.m. and includes a presention by NYU professor Richard Brown. Tonight's film is starring Catherine Deneuve. "Ma saison Preferee."
"My Favorite Season" I like the title. And sometimes, I like going to movies by myself, soaking in drama that is all fiction, and munching on a very large bucket of popcorn.
You can check out the film at 22 East 60th Street. See you there!
Your Girl About Town
Of course, this story about a painter's bizarre struggle captured my curiosity and held a place in my memory.
So you might imagine my interest when I saw a listing for a De Kooning show of a collection of his landscapes inspired by the environs of his East Hampton studio.
I'll certainly have to go and check it out.
This gallery, L&M Arts, is open to the public Tuesday - Saturday, 10:00 - 5:30 ... or by appointment. Looks like I'll have to wait until the weekend.
These showings by appointment. I'm not entirely sure what that means or why one would get a private appointment unless they were interested in purchasing one of the paintings in which case they would want to whip out their checkbooks in priavte. If you want a private showing at a time more convenient for you, give a call and see if you can schedule an appointment, and let me know how that works out.
Tonight, I'm finally going to check out one of those Cinema Tuesdays at the Alliance Francaise. The movies are in French with English subtitles. The show starts at 7p.m. and includes a presention by NYU professor Richard Brown. Tonight's film is starring Catherine Deneuve. "Ma saison Preferee."
"My Favorite Season" I like the title. And sometimes, I like going to movies by myself, soaking in drama that is all fiction, and munching on a very large bucket of popcorn.
You can check out the film at 22 East 60th Street. See you there!
Your Girl About Town
Did you know?
Did you know's always interest me... especially when they are about the area of town I live in. Here are a few that I researched and/or found out about the Upper East Side.
- Did you know Harry Houdini lived in a boarding house as a child on the Upper East Side?
- Did you know Andrew Carnegie was the one of the first of New York City's elite to move to the Upper East Side. Before fifth avenue was one of the wealthiest streets in this country, New York City's richest lived in the Columbus Circle area. Once Carnegie moved to 91st and 5th where he built his mansion (which now is owned and operated as a museum by Columbia University), his other rich friends began to flawk to the area.
- Did you know Al Roker lives on 82nd between Lex and 3rd Avenue?
- Over 1/3 of households reporting income of more than $200,000 in New York City are on the Upper East Side
That's the story for today, folks. Cheers!
- Did you know Harry Houdini lived in a boarding house as a child on the Upper East Side?
- Did you know Andrew Carnegie was the one of the first of New York City's elite to move to the Upper East Side. Before fifth avenue was one of the wealthiest streets in this country, New York City's richest lived in the Columbus Circle area. Once Carnegie moved to 91st and 5th where he built his mansion (which now is owned and operated as a museum by Columbia University), his other rich friends began to flawk to the area.
- Did you know Al Roker lives on 82nd between Lex and 3rd Avenue?
- Over 1/3 of households reporting income of more than $200,000 in New York City are on the Upper East Side
That's the story for today, folks. Cheers!
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