be in brooklyn

Robert Goldstrom and the Art of the Clock Tower

2010-01-18T16:07:00.001-08:00

Banking on Good Buys

2010-01-10T16:18:00.000-08:00

The Brooklyn Flea moves to bigger and better spaces through March. READ MORE

Brooklyn Flea Moves to Williamsburg Savings Lobby

2010-01-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

Beginning this weekend, the Brooklyn Flea will move indoors to Skylight One Hanson, the new high-end event space located at One Hanson Place in the Fort Greene neighborhood of Brooklyn. MORE

Before We Get to Seattle (We shoot in Brooklyn)

2009-11-02T15:03:00.000-08:00

Before We Get To Seattle is a new short film shot on location in Brooklyn. “You could call it a coming of age story, but I personally never liked that term.” April Mosqus, who co-wrote and directed the film with her award-winning filmmaker partner Adam Linn, explains. “It came from a feature-length script I wrote called Heartbreaker.” The short film follows the same premise, set in the 1990s and featuring a character trying to leave New Jersey to go to Seattle at the height of the grunge era to start a band. Check it out on facebook

More Artists in Green-Wood Cemetery

2009-10-10T16:28:00.001-07:00

TAKE A SHORT "ARTISTS IN GREENWOOD CEMETERY" QUIZ http://bit.ly/4geHk5

Protests, Counter Protests in Brooklyn

2009-09-27T04:50:00.000-07:00

Protestors came out in Brooklyn yesterday to counter the efforts of the Westboro Baptist Church at Beth Elohim. Rabbi Andy Bachman gave an inspiring speech to the assembled crowd. Photo by Shawn C. Roggenkamp

Back from the Brooklyn Book Festival

2009-09-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

...and I'm uploading some clips to The New Colonist's Facebook page. Just search for The New Colonist on Facebook.

Tim Horton's Now in Brooklyn

2009-09-13T14:48:00.000-07:00

I tried the iced cappuccino. Quite nice!

Barking about Hot Dogs

2009-08-29T13:06:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure a recession is the best time to launch a gourmet hot dog shop. I wasn't even sure a hot dog could be worth $6. I'm not going to judge value, but say that this was an eceptionally tasting hot dog. Bark is on Bergen Street near Flatbush.

Going in Circles

2009-08-18T18:43:00.001-07:00

The Sculpture of Prospect Park

2009-08-09T17:28:00.000-07:00

Crossing Grand Army Plaza

2009-07-13T05:02:00.001-07:00

Statue of Liberty from Vox Pop Decapitated on YouTube

2009-07-09T19:28:00.000-07:00

http://www.cnn.com/2009/CRIME/07/09/liberty.statue.decapitated/

Tree cut at the entrance of Prospect Park

2009-06-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

The entrance of Prospect Park near Grand Army Plaza was flanked by two pavilions. Yesterday, a group of people were cutting branches on the left side (Flatbush side). But to my surprise, it was the tree that was trimmed. The tree was beautiful and tall, I have even taken a picture of it.

Does anyone know what was going on there?

The amazing sky

2009-06-27T06:46:00.000-07:00

Lady Liberty is Missing

2009-06-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

This replica of the lady in the harbor has gone missing from the popular Brooklyn coffee shop, Vox Pop in Ditmas Park.

Grand Reflections

2009-06-23T04:39:00.000-07:00

MORE BROOKLYN PHOTOS

Eastern European Wedding and Funeral Orchestra in Prospect Park

2009-06-12T05:01:00.000-07:00

David Byrne In Prospect Park? How Cool

2009-06-11T13:32:00.000-07:00

Silouette at One Grand Army Plaza

2009-06-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

Flatbush at Night

2009-06-07T19:10:00.000-07:00

See more Brooklyn photos

A Word on The Collecting of Clocks

2009-05-29T06:02:00.001-07:00

Listen to an interview with David Sokosh, clock collector, repairer and a staple at the Brooklyn Flea. http://www.urbanartantiques.com/2009/a-conversation-about-clocks/

New Dollar Store on Flatbush

2009-05-26T13:09:00.001-07:00

There are lots of $2 things that could be $5 elsewhere. 333 Flatbush. Check it out!

Red Hook Open Sudio Tour This Weekend

2009-05-26T10:11:00.000-07:00

Made in Brooklyn

2009-05-23T05:05:00.001-07:00

This sofa in the Philadelphia Museum of Art was made in Brooklyn by Thomas Brooks and Company

San Francisco Fog in Brooklyn

2009-05-19T11:35:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning fog brought a bit of San Francisco to

Grand Army Plaza. MORE PHOTOS

Night on the Plaza

2009-05-15T14:20:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to warm summer evenings!

It is House Tour Season!

2009-05-04T14:10:00.000-07:00

Brooklyn Heights House Tour

When: 1PM - 5PM Saturday, May 9

Where: Starting Point: St.Ann's School Lobby, 129 Pierrepont Street

$30 reservation

Park Slope House Tour

When: 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM SUNDAY, MAY 17
Where: Starting Point: Poly Prep Lower School
Prospect Park West and 1st Street

$20 advance and $25 onsite

Prospect Lefferts Gardens

When: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM SUNDAY, MAY 31

$20 advance and $25 onsite

Ditmas Park Victorian House Tour

When: 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM SUNDAY, June 14

Where: Starting Point: Temple Beth Emeth, 83 Marlborough Rd

$20 advance and $25 onsite

Vox Pop Reopening Saturday

2009-05-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

Vox Pop will be holding its Grand Re-Opening party on May 9th from 5 p.m. until 2 a.m. Stop by to help celebrate, listen to great music, enjoy fine fair trade coffee and check out the new selection of microbrews.

Commercial Filmed in Brooklyn Museum

2009-05-03T05:34:00.000-07:00

Watch this commercial filmed in the Brooklyn Museum

Trees Are in Bloom on the Plaza

2009-04-28T06:45:00.001-07:00

The trees are in Bloom in Prospect Park and Grand Army Plaza. The moment is fleeting, so take a breather and smell (and see) the flowers. MORE PHOTOS

Sponge Bob Attacks Burger King

2009-04-28T06:43:00.001-07:00

This was the scene Sunday night in Sunset Park... The Be In Brooklyn Cameras were on the scene.

Cherrys Are in Blossom at BBG

2009-04-27T05:43:00.000-07:00

Spring is probably the best time to visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. These photos of the cherry blossoms are from yesterday!

A Swim at BBG

2009-04-27T05:38:00.000-07:00

the fish in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden nearly lift a poor duck out of the water!

Brooklyn Eagle

2009-04-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

You may have noticed this hansome eagle as you walk out of the Central Library. It was once over the doorway at the newspaper offices of the Brooklyn Eagle. You can see it in a photo here.

You think you know well Grand Army Plaza?

2009-04-08T11:59:00.001-07:00

&amp;lt;a href="http://www.mystudiyo.com/act85932/mini/go/if_you_know_g.a.p.,_brooklyn"&amp;gt;if_you_know_g.a.p.,_brooklyn&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;

Oops!

2009-04-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

I wonder if the motorist owning this oops will get a bill?

Groom to be Drops Wedding Ring off Bridge, gets it Back

2009-04-02T10:07:00.000-07:00

First Saturday at Brooklyn Museum

2009-04-01T12:27:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, April 4, from 5 to 11 p.m., the Brooklyn Museum presents a free night of music, dance, and art-making classes in celebration of spring and the special exhibitions Gustave Caillebotte: Impressionist Paintings from Paris to the Sea and Hernan Bas: Works from the Rubell Family Collection. Highlights include a swing music performance by The Blue Vipers of Brooklyn; Nicole Renaud, a French singer, who will perform arias and accompany herself with her accordion in the galleries; and a Miami bass dance party hosted by DJ Michna. I hear there's a killer tour of the Egyptian Collection at 2 p.m. if you happen to be around earlier.

Brooklyn's Longest Happy Hour

2009-04-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

SODA on Vanderbilt claims Brooklyn's longest happy hour. Is this an indication of the state of things or just another day on Vandy?

Go, Go, Gowanus

2009-03-30T15:58:00.001-07:00

Explore the wide banks of Brooklyn’s most famous canal. Before crossing one of the oldest retractile bridges in the United States, we’ll visit the Carroll Gardens Historic District, a singular brownstone enclave distinguished by a remarkable street plan. Learn the history of the canal and the surrounding, though faded, industrial zone. Leader: Matt Postal, architectural historian.

Meet at Smith and President streets, outside the drug store. (Transit: F, G trains to Carroll St.) $15, $10 MAS members.

Litchfield Villa

2009-03-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

Visiting Litchfield Villa is something you have to do during the week. Inside it's used as park offices, but there's still enough architectural splendor to make it a point to stop by. There's a magnificent rotunda opening to the second floor in the entryway, Minton tiles and an attractive (and completely level after 150 years) iron staircase. The home was designed by Alexander Jackson Davis or Edwin Litchfield, a railroad magnate.

Munchinette

2009-03-27T07:57:00.000-07:00

Home of simple, good food in Sheepshead Bay. Try the salmon burger.

From Brooklyn?

2009-03-25T11:31:00.000-07:00

Old Brooklynites (and neighboring areas) Understand
If you ain't from Brooklyn, just forget this; you wouldn't understand.

You're truly from Brooklyn if you can relate to any of the following:

1.Alternate side of the street parking.

2.Ate at Chock Full O' Nuts Shops (date nut bread and powdered donuts that were crunchy).

3.Ate dinner every Sunday night at Fong Fongs on Church Avenue.

4.Ate Italian food at Collaro's on Coney Island Ave.

5.Bought bobka at the original Ebingers on Flatbush Avenue. Or AT Butterbun on Nostrand Ave.

6.Bought Ebinger's Black-Out Cake (and didn't count the calories)

7.Bought knishes from Mrs. Stahls in Brighton, or Ruby the Kinish Man.

8.Bought knishes on the beach and didn't mind the sand.

9.Bought pickles out of a barrel. The salt made you pucker.

10.Can name all the Brooklyn High Schools. Just try and do that today (impossible).

11.Don't speak with an accent - everybody else does.

12.Drove over the Marine Park Bridge for a 10-cent toll, and Brooklyn Battery Tunnel for 35 cents.

13.Everybody knows somebody from the neighborhood, even if it is your mother's cousin's son-in-law's sister's boyfriend.

14.Got a "Kitchen Sink" at Jahn's.

15.Got a J.D. card and feeling like Al Capone.

16.Had a prom date at the Club Elegante.

17.Had roller skates with keys.

18.Hand ball in the park.

19.Hit two sewers in punch ball.

20.It's not the "shore", its the "beach" idiot.

21.Kings Plaza.... how come we get the crappy mall?

22.Knew who the neighborhood wise guy was, but you'd never tell the cops.

23.Know that NBC's main production studio is on Avenue M.

24.Know what the F.W.I.L. on the Lundy's Restaurant in "The Bay" stands for(It's the brothers, Frederick, William, Irving and Louis).

25.Know, or at least your hips do, what a Charlotte Russe is.

26.Owned a pair of pumps from Miles or National's.

27.Played at ( Eddy) Faber's Fascination and Skeeball - saved tickets for junk gifts

28.Played hide and go seek at dusk.

29.Played Hit The Penny, Stoop Ball, Skelly, and Potsy.

30.Private beach? What's that?

31.Remember a time when the Greeks didn't own ALL the diners and the Koreans didn't own ALL fruit stands. Except the Greeks on Utica and Church, where you just said going to the Greeks for lunch.

32.Remember Bohack's, Packer's, and Smilen Brothers fruit stand.

33.Remember Coney Island fireworks every Tuesday night in the summer. Watching from your roof.

34.Remember submarine race watching at Plumb Beach. Heck, if you even know where Plumb Beach is.

35.Sheepshead Bay is for fishing and seafood.

36.Shopped on Fulton Street and Pitkin Ave. before the mall.

37.Swear that Grabstein's Deli had the l-e-a-n-e-s-t pastrami.

38.The first bar that you hung out in when you were 15.

39.There is a bagel bakery a few blocks away.

40.There is at least one pizzeria within 1 block of your house and a candy store on the corner.

41.Thought "Buddy's Fairyland Kiddie Park" on Utica Ave. was a major amusement park.

42.Thought going "away to college" means NYU, Pace, or Pratt.

43.Waited for the Good Humor or Bungalow Bar guy to come around your block.

44.Walked along the Coney Island Boardwalk, with a Shatzkins knish.

45.Washed it down with a Sunny Boy orange drink.

46.Went to a Bar Mitzvah at the Colonial Mansion, sometimes two on a weekend.

47.Went to Big Daddy's on Coney lsand Avenue as a change from Nathan's.

48.Went to Brennan and Carr for a double dip roast beef that dripped all over you.

49.Went to Murray the K rock concerts at the Brooklyn Fox or the Brooklyn Paramount. Went the night before for good seats.

50.Went to Saturday matinees at the Boro Park, The 46th St, Oriental, Canars=ie, Kingsway, Avalon, Rugby, Sheepshead, Mayfair or Marlboro theaters.

51.You ate at the Horn and Hardart Automat.

52.You can correctly pronounce places like Long I-land, but aren't exactly sure where it begins.

53.You curse A lot. Or can at least out curse anyone from anywhere else.

54.You don't go to Manhattan, you go to "The City."

55.You have no reason to go to Queens, except for Met games.

56.You know and go to the REAL Nathan's - Coney Island.

57.You know someone with mob ties.

58.You know the difference between going with, seeing, fooling around with and going out with someone.

59.You know what a "johnny pump" is.

60.You love "Welcome Back Kotter" (and not because of the crisp writing or great acting).

61.You made a scooter from orange crates and an old skate.

62.You made carpet guns that shot old linoleum projectiles.

63.You never realize you have an accent until you leave.

64.You waited for the rides on a truck to come to your neighborhood for 10 cents a ride.

65.You walk down "The Avenue" and see at least a handful of the people you knew growing up.

66.Your friends came over to hang out on the stoop.

67.You've had a pigeon crap on your car and/or your head.

68. Went roller skating at Park Circle, Bay Ridge Roller Rink, Empire Rollerdrome or Rollerama.

And the most important reason that you are a Brooklynite, or at least have the soul of one, is that You're still angry that the Dodgers left

New York's Best German Restaurant

2009-03-20T10:28:00.000-07:00

When I went online looking for New York's best German restaurant, I thought Manhattan was in my future. Instead, Schnitzel House was to be found in the Brooklyn Neighborhood of Bay Ridge. I suggest the Rouladen and an Optimator on tap!

ASPCA offers SPAY and NEUTER

2009-03-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

The ASPCA Mobile clinic will be at the Central Library at the corner of Eastern Parkway and Flatbush Ave on Saturday April 4 and April 11 to SPAY and NEUTER your pet. In-take begins at 7:00AM and surgeries will be completed the same day. A fee of $75.00 will be required from pet owners not on Public Assistance.

Coming Soon to Prospect Park

2009-03-15T15:24:00.000-07:00

Blossoms... And not a moment too soon! More Prospect Park photos.

Is There a Steam Engine Buried Under Brooklyn?

2009-03-12T19:53:00.000-07:00

Bring the Trolley's Back!

2009-03-12T09:21:00.000-07:00

Historic Photos of Brooklyn

2009-03-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

Professor John B. Manbeck was on hand at the Central Library to give a talk on his history books about Brooklyn including Historic Photos of Brookyn. I think I noticed from a photo of the old Brooklyn Eagle newspaper building that the eagle in the library lobby (above the doors) is from the Brooklyn Eagle. I should have headed back in to ask, but the sunset was enticing. Link to the book

Art Outdoors

2009-03-10T16:05:00.001-07:00

The sculpture in front of a home on 2nd Street in Brooklyn’s Park Slope neighborhood may be an exception to having personal public sculpture. It blends in so well it looks to be part of the living green, rather than an object of art–especially now that the trees are bare. I’m not sure who created it, or the idea behind it, but I did find it to be a tasteful whimsical addition to the landscape. READ MORE

So This Is Brooklyn

2009-03-10T06:35:00.000-07:00

John Manbeck, former borough historian, gives an illustrated talk on the history of the borough and signs copies of his books: Brooklyn: Historically Speaking, Historical Photos of Brooklyn and Neighborhoods of Brooklyn.

Brooklyn Collection Reserve Room at Brooklyn Public Library (central). March 11, 7 p.m.

Should New York Have A Pigeon Day?

2009-03-09T14:17:00.001-07:00

Brooklyn Bridge Now Available

2009-03-06T11:40:00.000-08:00

Really, it is! Check out the Marketplace

Catch a Flick in Brooklyn

2009-03-04T17:07:00.000-08:00

I was on a walk past the Pavilion on my way to Cafe Steinhof. It seemed like just as good of an idea to stop in for a flick. Check shows and times

Greenest Block in Brooklyn

2009-03-03T13:28:00.000-08:00

In 2009 Brooklyn Botanic Garden's Greenest Block in Brooklyn contest celebrates its 15th anniversary. BBG is offering a workshop is for new participants or those who want tips for improvement. We discuss street trees, front-area gardens, containers, and window boxes, with examples that will inspire you. Thursday, March 26 6–8 p.m.

A Snowy Monday

2009-03-02T10:10:00.000-08:00

It wasn't the Storm of the Century, but it was enough to make Monday Morning a bit problematic for many of us. Once in a while, you have to shovel in March.

Wyckoff on Facebook

2009-03-01T16:01:00.000-08:00

The oldest house in the city seems to be up to date with a Facebook page. You can follow the house and its events by following on Facebook. ClickHere

Appellate Division: Yes to Atlantic Yards

2009-02-27T13:39:00.000-08:00

Today the New York State Appellate Division ruled in favor of the Atlantic Yards project in a lawsuit that challenged the project's environmental review process.

“Once again, the court has ruled favorably and the numerous public benefits of the Atlantic Yards project for Brooklyn have been reaffirmed," said Borough President in a statement.

"More than ever, in this economy, Brooklyn needs the thousands of units of affordable housing and most of all, the good, solid union jobs that Atlantic Yards will create—as well as the permanent jobs that will be created to meet the demands of new residents and visitors to Barclays Center, home to the soon-to-be Brooklyn Nets. Brooklyn’s shovels are ready. Let’s pick them up and get to work!”

Mayor Bloomberg said: “The Atlantic Yards project will create thousands of jobs and generate badly-needed tax revenue. The court’s unanimous affirmation today that the review and approvals processes were comprehensive and properly completed is a big step towards the start of construction.”

Brooklyn Museum Calendar Update

2009-02-25T15:31:00.000-08:00

The calendar of the Brooklyn Museum now can be viewed by either date or event type.

For example, guided tour can be found at here. Or each weekend's events can be seen here.

Based on a study, 75% of the museum visitors now visit the website to see what will be offered beforehand. Thus the searchable database, exhibition information and event calendar are crucial. If you cannot remember the link, here is the easy way:

Subscribe the event calendar from here.

Peeping at Peeing Under the Post Box

2009-02-25T12:22:00.000-08:00

Irene Kaoru sent this interesting shot from Sheepshead Bay. It makes you wonder who's watching. You might also think twice about touching the mail. photo credit

Experience Early American Life at the Lefferts House

2009-02-24T19:27:00.000-08:00

Every week at Lefferts, kids engage in arts, crafts, and games just like they did in 19-century Brooklyn. Bring history to life! Using your hands and your skills, make arts and crafts the old-fashioned way and play games that were popular 150 years ago.
Every Saturday & Sunday, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m.

Flushing in Grand Army Plaza

2009-02-23T17:19:00.000-08:00

No, the neighborhood in Queens is not setting up an annex, but a public toilet may soon grace the landscape in Grand Army Plaza with its presence. Not discounting the need for public toilets, these self-cleaning mechanisms are commonly used as shelters by the homeless in San Francisco. Will they be used for their intended purpose here?

The Transformation of Grand Army Plaza Through Viewing Vintage Postcards

2009-02-22T09:42:00.000-08:00

A lot of early postcards of GAP dated between 1892 and 1902. The relative abundance from this period indicates that Broolynites’ pride and joy in the grandeur of the park entrance and the arch designed by McKim, Mead and White. Devoid of automobile traffic, the plaza is reminiscent of European neoclassicism; yet the large empty space around the arch declared it American: Here, with enormous growth in wealth and confidence of the late Gilded Age, the order, dignity, and harmony of the old civilization still hold, but on a bigger and more ambitious scale. READ MORE Join the Grand Army Plaza Group on LinkedIn

Walking in Brooklyn

2009-02-20T04:40:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn is relatively walker-friendly as far as American communities go, but it isn't all equally walkable. One web site gives Brooklyn Heights a walk score of 98. Park Slope gets a 95. Williamsburg gets a 92. Bay Ridge Gets an 88 and Manhattan Beach gets a 69. Check out the walk score for your neighborhood.

Plane Crashes in Park Slope

2009-02-18T16:51:00.000-08:00

If you have ever noticed a corner on 7th Avenue in Park Slope with two newer buildings, you might wonder why. I was asked this same question and the only answer I could think of was that perhaps there had been gas stations there. The correct answer would have been a plane crash in 1960. The recent crash of the Conair plane into a house in Buffalo brought this to mind. The long ago event was more horrific, however. It was the result of a mid-air collision, following which a crippled United DC-8 careened into brownstone apartment buildings, the Pillar of Fire Church, the McCaddin Funeral Home, a Chinese laundry and a delicatessen. Wreckage was spewed over the Seventh Avenue at Sterling Place intersection, killing six people on the ground, including a sanitation worker shoveling snow and a man selling Christmas trees.

New Restaurant - Shitake

2009-02-17T13:13:00.000-08:00

A new Japanese restaurant opened in the busy section of Flatbush (at Sterling) Ave.

I was attracted by a big "Grand Opening" sign yesterday and went in to get the menu. Geo and I decided to try the dinner considering there was 15% discount.

The food was plenty and delicious. We both ordered bento with four shumais, 6 sushis, seaweeds, salad, rice and meat. I ordered scallop which was abundant and tender. Geo was equally happy with his teriyaki salmon. We were even treated with a free potion of light salted edamame. Probably it was not very authentic (the dialect between waiters were not Japanese), but good food is good food. I always follow my stomach and nose, not the ear.

The deco has some room to improve, especially it needs more decorative objects on the shelf and wall arts. But the service is good (maybe too many around). But overall it was a very good experience.

Shitake Japanese Restaurant, 385 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY

March 2009 Programs and Exhibitions at Brooklyn Public Library

2009-02-16T18:30:00.000-08:00

Celebrate Women’s History Month with Brooklyn Public Library. BPL has programs and activities that the whole family is sure to love. Programs are free and open to the public. SEE PROGRAMS

No More Obama Ale

2009-02-15T17:28:00.000-08:00

Federal agents have ordered a Red Hook brewery to stop making its popular “Hop Obama” ale. Read the story in the Brooklyn Paper

Miss Brooklyn

2009-02-15T05:57:00.000-08:00

Miss Brooklyn by Daniel Chester French sits proudly in front of the Brooklyn Museum, overlooking Eastern Parkway. Miss Brooklyn, and Miss Manhattan, which sits on the right, were once installed on the Manhattan Bridge, but were moved to their new home with the rebuilding of an entrance ramp. More about sculpture by Daniel Chester French

Peeing on Eastern Parkway

2009-02-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

Perhaps On Prospect Park, the new glass apartment building at One Grand Army Plaza, doesn't leave enough to the imagination. For lack of a curtain or screen, one resident seems to have blocked the view into a room (perhaps a bathroom?) with cardboard.

Country, Vodka and Sour Cream

2009-02-12T19:56:00.000-08:00

Writing requires research, and research in Brighton Beach ― if it is to be faithful ― requires drinking. READ MORE IN THE NEW YORK TIMES

Atlantic Station Features MOMA Display

2009-02-12T19:02:00.000-08:00

In an attempt to attract more visitors, MOMA has started a new project inside Atlantic and Pacific Subway Station in Brooklyn.

More than 50 reproductions of works in MOMA’s permanent collection is now on display inside the subway station. MOMA described the project as “a gift to the city’s subway riders”. By displaying them in one of the busiest station in Brooklyn, it reminds Brooklynites that the real MOMA is only a short ride away (especially along the B/Q line).

On the way to 2/3 line transfer yesterday, I stopped to look at one reproduction of Jackson Pollock’s works even though I was on a tight schedule of an appointment. New York subway stations are always a place of quintessential New York in that the natives waste a second to step out of it while the tourists get lost easily among the crowd. Having something to behold and breathe, at one of the most unexpected site of New York city, is a real gift to enjoy. READ MORE AND SEE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Celebrate Women Power at Brooklyn Museum’s Target First Saturday March 7

2009-02-12T04:37:00.000-08:00

In honor of Women’s History Month and the second anniversary of the Elizabeth A. Sackler Center for Feminist Art, the Brooklyn Museum’s March 7 Target First Saturday event celebrates Women Power. Highlights include a showcase of feminist performers Mango Tribe, Mahina Movement, and Climbing PoeTree; storytelling by Diane Wolkstein; a dialogue and performance by feminist burlesque artists; and a deep groove dance party by DJ Sabine. The Brooklyn Museum’s Target First Saturdays event attracts thousands of visitors to free programs of art and entertainment each month. MORE

Giant Brooklyn Borough Hall Holiday Tree Turned to Mulch

2009-02-05T19:28:00.000-08:00

It was always a conundrum to me. Which is better, immitation holiday trees or real ones? The plastic isn't discarded and it seems like such a waste to cut donn so many young trees. I was happy to learn from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden web site that Borough Hall's giant holiday tree was turned to mulch at Green-Wood Cemetery on January 10.

A Final Blast?

2009-02-04T14:49:00.000-08:00

Don't bet on it... Chuck, the Statan Island groundhog didn't want to come out this year, and found the mayor's tug a little annoying. Sure enough, another snowfall came down upon us. A bitten mayor and a white coat of powder were what remained of a rodents wrath Tuesday.

Sixthburgh?

2009-02-03T13:14:00.000-08:00

Having lived in Pittsburgh for six years before I moved to Brooklyn, I totally understand a recent comment by a blogger about Pittsburgh:

I would not move back to in Pittsburgh because the Post-Gazette's Twitter page only reports on crimes and the Steelers.

No doubt every Pittsburgher should feel proud of the sixth super bowl champion, but isn't it too much when even the Pittsburgh Symphony waved Terrible Towers in the concert?

Mayor Luke Ravenstahl maybe just joking by renaming himself as Steelerstahl and city council renaming the city as Sixthburgh sounds fun; but it is at such a moment that the leaders of the city should realize more should be reaped from the glory of the football and it is a great chance to advertise the city as what it is: a city of bridges, mountains and rivers, world-class educational institutions and a national-level cultural center. Sure, Pittsburgh is not just about football, but the stereotype would have it that way.

I like Brooklyn, a neighborhood where nobody is anybody and anybody can be anybody. Sure, here are plenty of Steeler fans on the night of Super Bowl in a bar of Cobble Hill, but there aren't so many who didn't give a damn.

Help Keep Grand Army Plaza Clean

2009-02-02T12:17:00.000-08:00

The Prospect Park Volunteer Department is starting a new weekly group to meet on Wednesdays from 10:00a.m. until 2:00p.m.

The group is seeking volunteers who are willing to help keep the beautiful, visible Grand Army Plaza/Bailey Fountain area irristably inviting both to the public and Park staff.

This is a great opportunity to help maintain one of the most grand and
historical entrances to Prospect Park. To volunteer call 718-965-8960 or
email volunteers@prospectpark.org.

The Red Show: A Valentine’s Arts and Crafts Fair and Celebration

2009-02-02T11:12:00.000-08:00

With Valentine’s Day approaching and with the economy in the red, everyone needs a special stimulus package. What better way to please your loved one and to help the economy than to come to the 3-day Red Show: A Valentine’s Arts and Crafts Fair and Celebration sponsored by NYCreates at the Brooklyn Historical Society in cooperation with BWAC (the Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition.)

The Fair features high quality and creative hand-crafted gifts – ceramics, jewelry, apparel for adults, plush toys, organic cosmetics, glass works, and home goods – as well as fine art works at affordable prices. The Valentine’s Arts and Crafts Fair is free and open to the public on Thursday from 11 AM – 7 PM, Friday 11 AM – 8 PM, and on Saturday from 10 AM – 5 PM.

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Feeding Time in Prospect Park

2009-02-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

Learn More About Pigeons and Other City Birds

Bring Streetcars Back to Brooklyn

2009-01-30T18:55:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn's last streetcar made its run on On October 31, 1956. Having spent many years in San Francisco, I've seen streetcars painted in Brooklyn schemes connecting West Coast attractions. It would be hard to contend they haven't done great good for that city. (In fact sometimes the clueless tourists think they're the famed cable cars). Streetcars go beyond just bolstering a tourist economy. Many cities today are rediscovering the benefits of streetcars, and a group here wants to see them come back to the streets of Brooklyn. Brooklyn City Streetcar Company (BCSC), a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit, public minded corporation, has been created to embark on the mission to return the trolleys to their former home in Brooklyn where they are sorely needed today. With the recognition of light rail as the urban transit of the future, BCSC plans to bring our history into the present and beyond with trolleys that run on clean, non-polluting electricity and use less than 20% of the energy while running more quietly than a diesel bus. Visit Brooklyn Streetcar. read about Streetcars returning to Philadelphia. Read about the Market Street Railway in San Francisco.

What's Black Got To Do with It?

2009-01-30T06:11:00.000-08:00

This Brooklyn Museum panel discussion, moderated by Elvis Mitchell, interviewer for The Black List Project, continues the exhibition’s consideration of how race, history, and each individual's striving shape and enrich their stories of success. The discussion will center on what the next four years might hold for Black women now that First Lady Obama and her daughters have moved into the White House. Panelists will include Studio Museum in Harlem Director and Chief Curator Thelma Golden, acclaimed artist Lorna Simpson , and CNN Entertainment Correspondent Lola Ogunnaike.

Saturday, January 31
Panel Discussion: "What's Black Got To Do with It?"
2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare at Brooklyn Museum

2009-01-29T14:24:00.000-08:00

The Brooklyn Museum will present the first major survey of the
work of the British-based, Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare MBE, whose art explores the relationship of contemporary African identity to European colonialism. On view June 26 through September 20, 2009, Yinka Shonibare MBE will include more than twenty works, among them sculptures, paintings, large-scale installations,
and films. MORE

Brooklyn on Ebay: Hotel Gravy Boat

2009-01-27T17:43:00.000-08:00

How can you own a piece of Brooklyn even if you can't afford the real estate? One think I enjoy collecting is hotel ware. This Rogers Silverplate Gravy Boat being offered on ebay is from the Hotel Saint George in Brooklyn Heights. Once the largest hotel in New York City, it no longer operates as a hotel. Today, it is a landmarked building in the first historically landmarked neighborhood in New York. It's offered through auction, or you can buy it now for $29.99. Link to ebay

Celebrate Black History Month with Brooklyn Public Library

2009-01-27T07:01:00.000-08:00

All programs are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. LINK

Living in Glass Houses

2009-01-25T15:57:00.001-08:00

Some people write personal blogs, some link a web cam to their apartments and still others move into glass houses. Each, in their own way, puts their lives on display.

I’ve overheard more than one comment by a pedestrian noting that they “wouldn’t want to live in a fishbowl.”

Read more at Urban Art and Antiques

Lunar New Year Celebrations in Brooklyn

2009-01-24T04:14:00.000-08:00

Come join the celebrations of 己丑 , the Ji Chou Lunar New Year 4707, Year of the Ox, at the Brooklyn Public Library. President Barack Obama was born in 1961, an Ox year.

Also don't miss Chinese New Year Splendor at BAM...

The Brooklyn Chinatown New Year's parade will run from 51st Street to 60th Street and begins at 11am. Sponsored by the Brooklyn Chinese-American Association

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Counts Down To Third Annual Lunar New Year Celebration and Flower Market

2009-01-23T07:18:00.000-08:00

Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) is counting down to its third annual Lunar New Year Celebration and Flower Market on Sunday, January 25, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. With plants such an essential element of the vibrant traditional Lunar New Year celebration, there is no better setting than the Garden to herald the year 4706 of the lunar calendar! This year's exciting family-fun Lunar New Year Celebration marks the first time Vietnamese cultural entertainment will be featured, alongside returning favorite showstoppers from China. It is also the first year BBG will offer visitors to the Lunar New Year Celebration a chance to learn through stories–both written and spoken–featuring engaging readings and signings by an author-illustrator whose stunning picture books help teach children the art of Chinese character writing, as well as a separate live storytelling program.

Plants native to China, Korea, and Vietnam in Brooklyn Botanic Garden's extraordinary collections will be featured on Chinese- and English-language guided tours for adults and children throughout the Steinhardt Conservatory. Many of these plants–including blossoming peaches, citrus trees, flowering quince, and other seasonal bloomers–will be available for purchase at a traditional flower market, allowing visitors to bring some of the luck and good fortune associated with the Lunar New Year Celebration into their own home! READ MORE

Registration for Spring Art Classes at the Brooklyn Museum Ends on February 28

2009-01-22T15:32:00.000-08:00

In the Brooklyn Museum’s Gallery/Studio Program, students ages six to adult develop art skills through studying the Museum’s collections and exhibitions and experimenting with materials and creative techniques in hands-on classes. Spring classes include instruction in painting, printmaking, drawing, sculpture, and mixed media, with themes such as “Waterworks,” “Masters of Form,” “Mixed-Media Puppetry,” “Chaos Factory: Contemporary Printmaking”, and “Painting Studio.” Each class has ten two-hour sessions. Spring classes are offered on Saturdays and Sundays and begin March 7 and 8. No experience is required.

Registration forms and payment in full must be received (by mail, fax, or drop off) by February 28. Since classes fill up quickly, early registration is encouraged. To obtain class schedules, registration forms, or scholarship
and work-study applications, call (718) 501-6230, visit brooklynmuseum.org

The Artists of Green Wood Cemetary

2009-01-22T15:27:00.000-08:00

Like artist William Merritt Chase during his life, I have often enjoyed the beauty of Prospect Park in Brooklyn. In the days before the park was developed, city dwellers (living ones) might have found retreat in nearby Green-Wood Cemetery. Founded in 1838, this “park” for the dead was often enjoyed by the living.

I had known Chase painted scenes in Prospect Park. What I didn’t know on my first trip to the cemetery was that Chase was buried there. In fact, he is one of a number of artists for whom Green-Wood is a final resting place.

The map you can pick up in the gatehouse lists several of these artists including Louis Comfort Tiffany and John LaFarge, both known for their stained-glass, as well as Jean-Michael Basquiat. I had also known cabinet-maker Duncan Phyfe was buried there and made a point to find that spot (I wondered if he might be laid on a lyre sofa inside). READ MORE AT URBAN ART AND ANTIQUES

coming soon!

2009-01-22T13:52:00.000-08:00

Coming Soon

2009-01-22T13:46:00.000-08:00

Check back soon!