DECEMBER THEATER downtown HIGHLIGHTS, PG. 21

® express VOLUME 23, NUMBER 29 THE NEWSPAPER OF LOWER MANHATTAN DECEMBER 1 - 7, 2010 Cult of holiday cheer Assembly passes

BY ALINE REYNOLDS Last Sunday, tree vendor Scott fracking moratorium Lechner was taking two or three deliv- BY JOHN BAYLES to ground water. The New ery calls at a time in his cluttered, At the eleventh hour of York State Senate passed smoke-fi lled R.V. parked on Sixth Monday’s special legislative similar legislation in August Avenue next to SoHo Square. session called by Governor and the bill now awaits the It was opening week of his com- Paterson, the New York Governor’s signature. pany, SoHo Trees, which is open 24 State Assembly passed a On Tuesday, Assembly hours a day, seven days a week, from moratorium on a controver- Speaker Sheldon Silver said, now through Christmas Day. sial drilling technique used “This moratorium will help SoHo Trees began as your everyday to acquire natural gas. ensure that the hydrofrack- neighborhood tree vendor in Flatbush, Horizontal hydraulic ing process will only be Brooklyn. fracturing, or fracking, has allowed in New York after “It was 1982,” Lechner said. “We come under fi re from envi- a thorough, deliberate and were just a few young Brooklyn boys ronmental groups across the unrushed analysis of the from the streets.” country because of possible process is complete.” He had no idea then that the small- dangers the technique poses Environmental Con- scale business venture would turn into a competitive citywide operation. Continued on page 17 Today, SoHo Trees operates 12 loca- tions around Manhattan, including 20th Street and Second Avenue, and Hudson and Clarkson Streets. The Park51 seeks funding company delivers the trees to the cus- tomers’ homes, installs and even deco- rates the trees, which range from $39 from L.M.D.C. to $2,000. BY ALINE REYNOLDS prevention and homeless Like most vendors around the After a hiatus that lasted veteran services. The grants nation, SoHo Trees has struggled in several weeks, Park51 has would also fund two multi- recent years as fuel, shipping, labor once again found itself in cultural art exhibits, immi- and rent prices have escalated and the media limelight. gration services and Arabic profi ts have steadily dwindled. SoHo Properties, the and other foreign language “We’ve been treading water [in developer of the proposed classes, according to its recent years],” said Lechner, who community center on Park blog, park51.org. wouldn’t reveal the company’s fi nan- Place, has applied for $5 “Park51 remains commit- cial status. million in federal grant ted to exploring all sources But the company has managed to stay money that would fi nance of revenue and funding to alive, running on the sales pitch of pro- programming at the center, build the community cen- viding great-quality trees for reasonable including domestic violence ter in Lower Manhattan,” Downtown Express photo by John Bayles Ruslan Komitsev is one of the many SoHo Tree employees stationed at the Continued on page 13 Continued on page 9 company’s Sixth Avenue location for the holiday season.

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BLACK’S WAIVER PROMPTS “RED THURSDAY” Commissioner Steiner, plus six out of eight experts on his advisory panel, stated unequivocally that Cathy Black ARTS ...... 21-27 Opposition to Mayor Bloomberg’s appointment of possesses neither the qualifi cations, the related life or Cathleen Black as schools chancellor continued to mount professional experience, nor any prior interest in public this week, even as the former publishing executive was education, to serve as Chancellor. Other than a closed CLASSIFIEDS ...... 26 formally cleared to take on the role. On Monday, State door deal to mollify the mayor – parents and educators Education Commissioner David Steiner approved a want Commissioner Steiner to explain what has changed waiver for Black, only after Bloomberg agreed to install over the past six days?” Deputy Chancellor Shael Polakow-Suransky as a “chief The D.W.C. plans to hold a protest called “Red academic offi cer” advising Black. Thursday” on Thursday, December 2, on the steps of C.B. 1 In the weeks after Bloomberg announced the appoint- the Tweed Courthouse at 52 Chambers Street, at 4 PM. ment, parents, lawmakers, and others protested Black’s Attendees – and those in solidarity with the protest who MEETINGS lack of education credentials, attempting to persuade cannot attend – are invited to wear the color red. Steiner to deny a waiver that would allow Black to assume The upcoming week’s schedule of Community the role nonetheless. Board 1 committee meetings is below. Unless other- On November 23, Community Board 1 passed a SILVER HOSTS CONSTRUCTION JOB FAIR wise noted, all committee meetings are held at the strongly worded resolution against a waiver, which read, board offi ce, located at 49-51 Chambers St., room in part, “there can be no reasonable doubt that there are Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver is hosting a job fair on 709 at 6 p.m. far more qualifi ed and better prepared persons to oversee December 9 at Rutgers Houses that will focus solely on the the management of our schools at this precarious moment construction job market. The New York State Dormitory ON WED., DEC 1: C.B. 1’s Financial District in our City’s future, given Ms. Black’s breathtaking lack of Authority, the Lower East Side Employment Network and Committee will meet. professional qualifi cations.” the New York City Housing Authority are also sponsoring Several groups have been formed to protest the the fair. ON THUR., DEC 2: C.B. 1’s Planning and appointment, including the Deny Waiver Coalition, which The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and Community Infrastructure Committee will meet. calls itself “an association of public school parents and Gouverneur Hospital will be among a number of groups educators as well as concerned community leaders.” delivering presentations about specifi c construction jobs ON TUES, DEC 7: C.B. 1’s Battery Park City will Following the news that the waiver had been granted, currently underway where employment opportunities might meet at Battery Park City Authority, 1 World Financial Noah Gotbaum, a D.W.C. member, said, “Last week exist. Center, 200 Liberty Street, Manhattan

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BY ALINE REYNOLDS ent of a fourth grader in P.S. 234. Swedish educational enterprise that, accord- seas] have a fi nancial stake in it.” The Department of Education is con- Community Board 1 passed a resolution ing to the school’s website, features per- However, Hoey noted, “I.M.C.S. is run by templating what to do with the six empty at its Youth and Education Committee meet- sonalized teaching and projects. It is a a nonprofi t Board of Trustees with the aim classrooms in the Tweed Courthouse once ing last week, citing the need for a non-char- culmination of ten years of research and “to provide pedagogical services, not opera- their current occupant, Spruce Street School ter, public school in Tweed. Silver echoed development, and I.M.C.S.’s founder, Peg tions of the school or fi nancial management (P.S. 397), moves to its permanent location Hoey, noted that the children in the K.E.D. of the school.” at Beekman Tower next fall. program have outperformed those in other And, contrary to parental fears, Hoey The likely candidate is a middle school Swedish schools. “It has a distinct advantage maintained that the standards I.M.C.S. set called Innovate Manhattan Charter School, “It’s very unwise to use of already being tried out by other children,” in the school’s 1,200-page charter are strict. a prospect that worries many Downtown she said. The school has a “highly rigorous” cur- families. [the Tweed space] for any- The school, she added, is meant to serve riculum and its students must pass the same Eric Greenleaf, a P.S. 234 parent and as a good segue for District Two elementary high-achievement English Language Arts New York University business professor, thing else than a non-char- school students. and math tests. The State University of New stressed that the neighborhood is in dire “Our program directly feeds into the York, the school’s authorizer, she added, need of elementary, not middle, school seats. ter, public school.” kind of innovative, progressive curriculum could shut down the school if it doesn’t “You don’t put in a new middle school if it’s that [District Two] has in their elementary abide by its own standards. going to displace hundreds of elementary – Eric Greenleaf schools,” Hoey said. “To present another Jonathan Griffi th would like to send his school kids,” he said. According to a report middle school option that builds on that his- fi fth grader, Ruby, to I.M.C.S. next year. “I Greenleaf presented to Assembly Speaker tory is something that parents want to see.” think the traditional model quite frankly is Sheldon Silver’s School Overcrowding But the educational philosophy has not not working,” he said. Ruby, who attends Task Force committee last week, Lower the board’s opinion in a statement, saying, “I been tested out in the U.S., which concerns a P.S. 3 Charrette School in Greenwich Village, Manhattan will be lacking 500 elementary strongly urge the Department of Education number of Downtown parents. And the fact has needed private tutoring the past few school seats by the year 2014. to use the space at Tweed Courthouse to that it’s modeled after a for-profi t company years to keep up in math class, for example. “It’s very unwise to use [the Tweed space] incubate a new school to serve our growing makes them equally nervous. for anything else than a non-charter, public population.” “It’s a corporate business model,” Schiller Continued on page 17 school,” said Greenleaf. The possibility of I.M.C.S. moving into said. “In actuality, people promoting it [over- Other Lower Manhattan parents fear Tweed next year has also rekindled the the long commutes their children would debate among Downtown educators and have to make to elementary schools outside parents about the caliber of charter schools their neighborhoods. “Kindergarteners are compared to traditional district public so small — it’s about protecting the littler schools. ones who need the sense of community in I.M.C.S.’s curriculum is modeled after POLICE BLOTTER their early lives,” said Tina Schiller, the par- the Kunskapsskolan Education Program, a Believe it No return policy A visitor from Cincinnati told police on A man who turned up at the Ralph STATE SENATOR NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY SPEAKER COUNCIL MEMBER Fri., Nov. 26 that as soon as he discovered Lauren store at 379 Broadway at White DANIEL SQUADRON SHELDON SILVER MARGARET CHIN his wallet was gone around 3:52 p.m. he St. around 5:30 p.m. Mon., Nov. 29 with returned to the True Religion clothing bou- a Ralph Lauren coat valued at $5,000 over tique, 132 Prince St., where he last had it his arm said he wanted to return the item two hours earlier. A surveillance camera at and get his money back. He left with the and THE CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK the shop recorded two men kicking a wallet coat when the shop declined to accept the on the fl oor and hiding their faces as they coat and refund the money. A surveillance invite you to a picked it up and walked out. The victim lost tape examined later showed the man taking $600 in cash and various credit cards. the coat from a display rack shortly before 5:30 p.m. Twice unlucky Designer bags gone CUNY COLLEGE A Merrick, L.I. woman told police she went to the Lucille Roberts fi tness center, The manager of What Goes Around 143 Fulton St. around 11:45 a.m., Wed., Comes Around, the boutique at 351 W. Nov. 24, locked her bag and street clothes in Broadway between Grand and Broome Sts., INFORMATION FAIR a locker and returned an hour later to fi nd told police that two Chanel bags with a the lock and her bag had been stolen. She total value of $4,950 were stolen from a FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS, COLLEGE STUDENTS, ADULT LEARNERS said the same thing happened at the same display case around 2:30 p.m. Fri., Nov. 26. fi tness center on Sept. 21. This time she lost The shop was so busy that employees were $100 in cash, house keys, credit cards and a unable to see how the bags were stolen, silver necklace that were in the bag. police said. SEWARD PARK EDUCATIONAL CAMPUS | 350 GRAND ST. (LUDLOW STREET) | MANHATTAN Women steal wallet Stolen in club A saleswoman at Le Page New York, the A woman resident of Hudson Square gift shop at 72 Thompson St. told police she told police she was in Don Hill’s, the music 11A.M. - 2P.M. was busy taking care of a crowd of shoppers club at 511 Greenwich St. during the early SUNDAY DECEMBER 5, 2010 REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED on the afternoon of Fri., Nov. 11 and discov- hours of Fri., Nov. 19 and had put her bag on ered when most of the crowd had left around the fl oor by her chair around 1 a.m. When 2 p.m. hat her wallet had been stolen. The she bent to pick it up a half hour later, she victim said she suspected two women who discovered it had been stolen, along with were among the last to leave had made $220 in cash, diamond earrings valued at off with her wallet with $15 in cash, her $300, her Apple cell phone, credit cards and MetroCard and credit cards. house keys. downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 5 New report, fi nal location rekindles debate

BY Aline Reynolds Trade Center site, searching for additional “Not everyone chooses to give us sam- of the museum’s public exhibition space, Sally Regenhard is still reeling over remains. Debris possibly containing remains ples,” Borakove said. “Some choose to say, though it is located next to the museum and the loss of her 28-year-old son, Christian is collected, placed into barrels and hauled their loved one is gone.” is accessible through the museum. Regenhard, a New York City fi refi ghter who to mobile sifting platforms, machines that Regenhard launched the Skyscraper Safety “From the O.C.M.E.’s perspective, this passed away on 9/11. His remains have yet fi lter the debris located in Brooklyn and Campaign in December 2001, requesting new repository will provide a dignifi ed to be discovered, leaving her feeling violated Staten Island. that the federal government participate in and reverential setting for the remains to and all the more heartbroken. When the examiners successfully match the search and identifi cation of the remains. repose—temporarily or in perpetuity—as “If a human being is murdered, you remains with a hair or skin sampling from According to the S.S.C., the O.C.M.E. is not identifi cations continue to be made,” accord- certainly have the right to have the remains a family member, the O.C.M.E. notifi es the fi t for a search of this magnitude. ing to a written statement on the 9/11 muse- of your loved ones be found, and to have a loved one. “How can a relatively small organization um’s website. The on-site laboratory will be proper burial for them,” she said. “They’ll typically send a funeral director [the O.C.M.E.] be competent enough to connected to a private seating and viewing Shortly after 9/11, Regenhard took part to come and collect it,” said Ellen Borakove, administer a search in this manner? It is a area for family members to contemplate and in New York City’s painstaking quest to director of public affairs at the O.C.M.E. disgrace,” Regenhard said. refl ect on their loved ones. fi nd her son’s remains. The city’s Offi ce But there are still many unanswered ques- The organization will launch its cam- But Regenhard and other 9/11 families of the Chief Medical Examiner staged a tions. According to the latest O.C.M.E. data paign again in early 2011 to call upon the do not feel that this is a suitable mourning Family Assistance Center at Pier 94 in mid- report, 41 percent of the 21,812 remains participation of the Joint Prisoner of War/ place. Attaching the space to the museum, town, where Regenhard and thousands of detected at and around Ground Zero since Missing in Action Accounting Command for a public exhibition space, is a betrayal of other 9/11 families brought hair clippers 9/11 have not been identifi ed. Current DNA assistance in the next phases of the remains trust, she said, since the Lower Manhattan and toothbrushes in order to provide DNA testing techniques are not advanced enough, project. Development Corporation promised the samples. The items were later brought to the according to the O.C.M.E., for the examin- “I’d call for the City of New York, after families a stand-alone memorial at the future O.C.M.E. labs, where they were matched ers to create complete profi les of the victims. nearly ten years of failure, to use the larg- W.T.C. against the human remains uncovered at and “As new technology becomes available, we est DNA lab in the world [J.P.A.C.] and to “I shouldn’t have to go 70 feet below around Ground Zero. want to go back to the remains and test have them come in and try to help identify ground fi ghting thousands of people in order At the end of December, the O.C.M.E. is them,” said Borakove. remains that are still here,” Regenard said. to try to pay respect for my son’s human coming out with a third report documenting Borakove indicated that, though the The location of the remains at the future remains,” Regenhard said. its latest discoveries. The report reveals that O.C.M.E. isn’t pressuring family members W.T.C. site stirs up yet another debate. The S.S.C. is researching the national the O.C.M.E. has uncovered 68 additional to provide samples for the DNA tests, the According to Lynn Rasic, senior vice presi- guidelines of the preservation of human bone, teeth and skin fragments in the third O.C.M.E. would be unable to make identi- dent of public affairs and communications remains to see if the museum’s design plan round of searches, which took place earlier fi cations without them. The examiners have at the National September 11 Memorial and complies with federal law. this year, bringing the total count of recov- recently come up with 27 separate profi les Museum, the remains will be stored in a The wall separating the O.C.M.E. space ered remains to close to 22,000. of victims, for example, and without family space “connected” to the 9/11 Museum “at and the museum will have a commemorative An O.C.M.E. offi cial continues to moni- members’ participation, the victims’ identi- bedrock,” per 9/11 families’ requests. She tor areas under excavation at the World ties will amount only to a case number. emphasized that the area will not be a part Continued on page 17

SMALL FIRM ASSISTANCE PROGRAM Find us on & Drop by for a complimentary treat! LMDC is accepting applications for the Small Firm Assistance Program which assists small retail businesses in lower Manhattan EVENT ALERT that have suffered business disruption as a result of publicly- December 4th funded construction projects. On September 1, 2010 LMDC added $1 million to the Program Santa Paws and extended it through December 31, 2015, so long as there are is coming to grant funds remaining. Some businesses previously capped at The Salty Paw!! $25,000 are now eligible for up to $35,000. The Program is open to all small retail businesses on streets impacted by publicly-funded Come on by with your camera and dog this Saturday for free construction including those located on second floors and above. treats and pose for pictures WITHSANTAFROM  For further details on eligibility or to download an application please consult the LMDC website at http://renewnyc.com/ 38 Peck Slip, bet. Front and South St ProjectsAndPrograms/small_firms.asp or contact the LMDC at 212-962-2300. WWWTHESALTYPAWCOMs   /0%.DAYSAWEEK 6 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express Television appearance sheds light on Trinity’s past

BY TERESE LOEB KREUZER to his father, John Jacob Astor III. The rere- On Saturday, December 4, Trinity Church dos, the ornamental wall behind the altar, at Broadway and Wall Street will be in the was the gift of William Backhouse Astor, Jr. spotlight when a crew from ABC Television and John Jacob Astor III in memory of their fi lms the church’s Lessons and Carols ser- father, William Backhouse Astor, Sr. It was vice for broadcast later in the month. Then dedicated with great fanfare on June 29, people around the country will be able to 1877 — an event that is memorialized on the glimpse Trinity and its boisterous past, going sculpted doors now leading to the gift shop back more than 300 years. on the southern side of the building. The fi rst Trinity Church building was According to Trinity’s archivist, Gwynedd consecrated in 1698 at the crest of what Cannon, at the time the reredos was dedi- the sea-level town of New York might have cated, it was customary for the priests to regarded as a hill. The Anglican Church was pray with their backs to the congregation. erected with the assistance of the privateer “You’ll see Astor’s name carved [on the rere- and pirate Captain William Kidd, a friend dos],” she said. “To me that’s kind of funny of New York’s governor, Benjamin Fletcher. because he’s from the halls of Mammon. Captain Kidd provided the block and tackle It was almost as though [the priests] were with which to raise the stones of the modest praying to Astor.” structure, which was just inside the wall that Trinity’s archives go back to the 1690s, the Dutch founders of the colony of Nieuw Cannon said. They include the parish charter Amsterdam had built to keep the English granted by King William III of England in out. However, when the English took over 1697 and a land grant from England’s Queen the colony in 1664 and renamed it New York Anne. In 1705, she gave Trinity land on the they came by sea, not by land, and met with Downtown Express photo by Terese Loeb Kreuzer west side of Manhattan from Fulton Street to no resistance. The citizens just went about Trinity Church at Broadway and Wall Street, is the third building on this site. The Christopher Street in order to provide some their usual business, which was making present church was designed by Richard Upjohn and was consecrated in 1846. rental income for the struggling parish. Over money. In 1699, the wall was taken down. the years, Trinity sold off much of the land Today’s Trinity Church is the third on the irreparably damaged the roof. The present with pineapples, the traditional Colonial sign but retained some of it. Several buildings Broadway/Wall Street site. The 1698 church church, designed by Richard Upjohn in the of “welcome.” near Canal Street have plaques indicating burned down in the fi re of September 21, neo-Gothic style, was consecrated in 1846. From the sculpted bronze doors at the that they are owned by Trinity, and explain- 1776 that destroyed the western side of It was built of sandstone and contained entrance to the marble reredos behind the ing why. the city. Its successor had to be torn down some of the fi rst stained glass windows in altar, Trinity exudes wealth, thanks in part The Astors were the richest members when huge snowstorms in 1838 and 1839 the United States, with panes emblazoned to members of the Astor family. The massive of Trinity’s congregation but not the most doors, completed in 1896, were donated by politically and historically signifi cant. The William Waldorf Astor (at the time, the rich- est man in the United States), as a memorial Continued on page 18

Fighting to make Lower Manhattan Team selected to redesign the greatest place Hudson Square to live, work, and The mission of the Hudson Square with a proven track record of “getting things raise a family. Connection is simple; the Business done in New York City,” something Baer Improvement District wants to make Hudson described as “in itself hard and unique.” Square a cleaner, safer and more fun neigh- The team will focus on increasing the borhood in which to work and live. “workability” of the neighborhood’s streets To that end, last July they released a by “recapturing sidewalks for pedestrians,” Request for Proposals looking for a team to creating green spaces and coordinating the redesign the area’s streets and traffi c fl ow. needs of a regional transportation facility, In late November the B.I.D. announced the Holland Tunnel, with the “important the winning team lead by Mathews Nielsen needs of a growing business district.” Landscape Architects and including fi ve “We’re extremely excited and more so by other fi rms focusing on urban and industrial the day,” said Baer. “We want to emphasize design as well as transportation planning. that we intend to really work with and hear “This is a project we were set up to do,” from the stake holders. This isn’t something said Ellen Baer, president of the Hudson that will be done and then presented. We’ll Square Connection. be out there talking to people.” Twenty-three different teams comprised Baer said the fi rst task for the team of more than 100 fi rms applied to the R.F.P. would be an analysis phase where the team Baer noted that prior to issuing the would go from door to door in the district, R.F.P., discussions were held with various talking to business owners as well as gather stakeholders in the district as well as the as much information as possible. She said Assemblyman Shelly Silver Connection’s board members and amongst the analysis phase would begin in early task forces focused solely on streetscape and January and by next summer there should If you need assistance, please contact my office at traffi c issues. be a comprehensive vision and framework (212) 312-1420 or email [email protected]. According to Baer, “fi rst and foremost” for the district. they were looking for a team with a great design sensibility. Second, they wanted fi rms — John Bayles downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 7 Downtown small biz sector gets boost from Camelot

smaller, independent projects in her free time. Many of her current clients have come DOWNTOWN from face-to-face interaction, such as KK PROFILE Salon on Maiden Lane. “I just went to get my hair cut at a local BY JOHN BAYLES salon,” Cozzi said. “Everyone I represent, As the role of small businesses has I’ve visited and patronized.” changed, so has the marketing behind them. Cozzi said what sets herself apart from Rarely have small businesses been able to a larger public relations or marketing fi rm afford to hire their own public relations fi rm, is being able to relate to the needs of her instead having to bank on word of mouth clients. and a dedicated customer base. “I’m not running out of the offi ce, turning Christina Cozzi, founder and president off my computer at 5 p.m. and telling them of Camelot Communications, is well on her I’ll call them in the morning,” she said. way to changing that, at least when it comes In late October, Cozzi hosted an event to Lower Manhattan. for all of her clients, which she called “Fall “One of the things I like about Downtown in Love with the New Downtown.” Staying is you can walk into a business and talk to true to her entrepreneurial roots, the pro- the owner,” said Cozzi. ceeds went to the Hive at 55, which itself The young entrepreneur identifi es with is a turnkey offi ce space for small start-up her clients, many of who are also young, businesses. either in age or in terms of their business’ “I wanted to have all the clients in one existence. And she knows regardless of the venue — a family tree type of thing,” said economic environment, small businesses will Cozzi. “A lot of the people had never had not disappear. public relations before. They either couldn’t Photo courtesy of Camelot Communications “As [President] Obama said, small busi- afford it or didn’t know what it would actu- We’re Worth It, a local start-up that promotes self-esteem through merchandising, ness is the instrument of change,” Cozzi ally bring.” was a participant at Camelot Communication’s “Fall in Love with the New Downtown” noted. Cozzi said word spread quickly about event. Cozzi paid her dues, moving up the ranks the event and she decided to open it up to in numerous public relations fi rms prior to other downtown businesses so even more Design, We’re Worth It and the Bluebell have ever imagined. starting her own. She noticed in late 2008 and networking could occur. Café, and put her clients “in front of all of Camelot Communications is planning a early 2009 that many large corporations were Cozzi created over 100 gift bags, raf- the Financial District residents” in one fell similar event for the holiday season. cutting or pulling altogether their communi- fl ed off items from participating businesses swoop. She said the night proved to be a “Their success is my success,” said cations budgets and she began working on including LightAir, August Black Interior bigger success than she or her clients could Cozzi.

Attention Downtown Residents Photo courtesy of the Downtown Alliance If you would like to have Downtown Express Streets receive holiday dressing delivered to your residential building (you must be located south of Canal St ) Almost overnight, Lower Manhattan streets are transformed into glittering lanes of holiday cheer. This is thanks to the Downtown Alliance, who for the past 15 please email: [email protected] years has installed over 200 shooting stars and star clusters throughout the district. “Every holiday season, we try to do a little something extra to brighten the season for Thank you to our loyal readers for making us our 300,000 workers, 55,000 residents and six million annual visitors,” said Elizabeth the #1 community news source H. Berger, president of the Downtown Alliance. The fi xtures will remain up until the fi rst week in January and are custom designed Your community, your neighborhood, your news! for the Alliance. Pictured above is Nassau Street. 8 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express C.B.1 says park solution is a doggone shame

BY HELAINA N. HOVITZ public session and reassured the crowd that damage, I couldn’t even play fetch with my Parks Department failed to attend. When When the fi rst person to speak during no trial period would be approved. The dog because I was afraid she might trip on Sheffe met with Senator Daniel Squadron Community Board 1’s public session asked representative added that the city would one of the holes and sprain her leg,” Yee several weeks ago, it was suggested that those in support of off-leash hours to stand, compromise and set aside a concrete, gated explained. “And the tents they used during the task force fi nd out how many 311 calls half of the crowd rose to their feet. One by area in which dogs could run free. the fair killed the grass.” have been placed complaining about dogs one, Downtown dog owners took to the The Battery Park City and Financial running off-leash on the lawn. According to podium to speak for those who couldn’t — District Committees proposed an open-end- the dog owners at the meeting, virtually no their dogs. ed resolution calling for the establishment residential opposition has been voiced, and For the past twenty years, dogs have of a task force to evaluate the current pol- “It makes perfect sense the only thing standing in their way is the been free to run off-leash across what has icy, gather and analyze data, and determine government. become known as Battery Park’s “Great whether it would make sense to extend any to have this trial period Allowing dogs to run off-leash in grassy Lawn,” an impressive span of grass adjacent off-leash privileges. The resolution asks the areas is permitted in 77 other parks city- to Whitehall Street; but all carefree canine Parks Department to consider designating a now.” wide, and the D.D.O.A. wants the Parks play was brought to an abrupt halt after a trial period to see what impact, if any, off- Department to formally add Battery Park crackdown in June of this year. leash hours would have. – Cathy Yee to the list. “One day, Pat Kirshner from the Battery The resolution passed with 25 in favor, “There’s no place within C.B. 1 where a Park City Parks Conservancy just showed 14 against, and one abstention. dog is allowed to walk on grass,” said board up and started handing out fl iers to warn According to residents, there is no record member Jeff Galloway. “The prohibition us that dogs weren’t allowed on the lawn of dogs ever having done damage to the Ro Sheffe, chair of the Financial District isn’t just off-leash, it’s a prohibition of dogs anymore,” explained Financial District resi- lawn, which is set to undergo major recon- Committee, will head the task force, and period.” dent Cathy Yee, a member of the Downtown struction in Spring 2011. said though he does not anticipate much Galloway, whose offi ce overlooks the Dog Owners Association, who used to take “I really don’t understand why there cooperation from the Parks Department, lawn, said it’s been virtually empty since July, her energetic pup, Piper, to the lawn every can’t be a trial period, considering they’re the working group will continue their work and is the only area in the entire park to be day. “Several weeks later, Parks began issu- just going to tear up the lawn in six months either way. fenced off. Before that, he could always spot ing summonses to those of us who weren’t anyway,” said Yee. “It makes perfect sense to “If the community feels very strongly that at least a dozen dogs and their owners on cooperative.” have this trial period now.” we should continue advocating for this, then the grass during the wee morning hours. As This prompted a slew of passionate Residents claim that some of the fund- we’ll continue,” Sheffe said. “We’ll advocate it currently stands, the closest a downtown D.D.O.A. members to show up at last raising events held by the Conservatory actu- for what the majority of our constituents dog can get to enjoying a bit of greenery is Tuesday’s full board meeting, as they had ally damage the lawn worse than the dogs want, and we’re going to go ahead with the farther uptown along the East River or in for the past four months, to ask for a trial ever have, or ever could. task force regardless.” Central Park. period in which their dogs could once again “They’re worried about dogs? The Hubble Earlier drafts of the resolution were The trouble is, not everyone can get their run free. A representative from the Parks Telescope they had back in June during the tabled at the September and October full Department offi ce also spoke during the 2010 World Science Festival did so much board meetings, the latter of which the Continued on page 17 downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 9 Shanghai next, N.Y.U. looking east

BY ALBERT AMATEAU go into it,” McLaughlin told Washington A few months after New York University Square News, the undergraduate newspa- admitted the fi rst freshman class to its per published at the Washington Square branch campus in Abu Dhabi, the university campus. is exploring a new overseas branch: N.Y.U. All courses would be taught in English Shanghai. but at the end of four years all students The school, in the Pudong district of would have to be fl uent in English and the city, would be the Greenwich Village Mandarin, according to the Washington university’s third overseas degree-granting Square News article. FedEx, DHL, USPS, & Freight campus if the city of Shanghai subsidizes the The article also quotes N.Y.U. faculty operating costs and the district of Pudong members who are concerned about aca- pays for land and construction costs. N.Y.U. demic and intellectual freedom in campuses administrators are exploring whether the like Abu Dhabi and Shanghai. university has its own funding for design and “These are not fully open societies. educational resources, according to David Although many people see great opportu- Cannot be combined with other offers. Exp. 12/31/10 McLaughlin, N.Y.U. provost. nity, there’s also concern,” Professor Floyd If fi nally approved, N.Y.U. Shanghai Hammack told Washington Square News. could admit its fi rst class as early as the fall McLaughlin, however, said that the cam- of 2013 for as many as 3,400 undergradu- pus would operate under full academic ate and graduate students, most of them freedom. 5, 12, 19 11AM - 4PM Chinese in the beginning. “That’s in the agreement with our part- “No N.Y.U New York tuition dollars will ners,” he said. closed 12/25 and 12/26 Park51 seeks fed funds EVEN MORE Other activists, however, are using the Continued from page 1 news as an opportunity to bolster their sup- VALUABLE port of the project. “We are hopeful that the El-Gamal told the New York Times. “It L.M.D.C. treats [Park51’s] application just as COUPONS AT is important to note that this community equitably and fairly as any other application, center will provide hundreds of construc- and [that they] base their decision on the MBETRIBECA.COM tion jobs over the next few years and, when merits rather than the politics,” said Deanna opened, will provide 150 permanent jobs.” Bitetti, associate director for Common Cause The Park51 board also applied for money New York, a nonprofi t advocacy organization to purchase equipment and to lease or buy in support of the community center. the building at 49-51 Park Place, according Debbie Almontaser, board chair of the St. Peter’s Chelsea to a New York Times report. There is no Muslim Consultative Network, echoed that mention of the money funding the commu- Park51’s application “should not be treated nity center’s prayer space. any differently than any of the institutions Episcopal Church Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf had no involvement in Lower Manhattan seeking to rebuild and th in the grant application, according to Gene revitalize that area.” 346 West 20 Street Grabowski, a spokesperson for the Imam. “If Park51 meets all the grant guide- (between 8th & 9th Avenues) “Handling development and fundraising lines,” she continued, “we hope it will be is not in his area of expertise,” Grabowski given serious consideration.” 2 1 2 . 9 2 9 . 2 3 9 0 said. The L.M.D.C. has previously funded So far, the L.M.D.C. has received 255 www.stpeterschelsea.com the Eldridge Street Project, the Museum of applications from a wide range of Lower Jewish Heritage and the 92nd Street Y, other Manhattan nonprofi ts (south of Houston institutions with religious affi liations. Street) for its Community and Cultural Yet the grant request has renewed the Enhancement grant, amounting to a total of Christmas at St. Peter’s fi restorm surrounding the community cen- more than $175 million in funds. The grant, ter. Though conservative blogger and activist however, is only worth $17 million. Timothy Brumfield, Director of music /organist Pamela Geller is not lining up any protests The L.M.D.C.’s community and cul- David Ossenfort, renowned tenor just yet, she is vehemently speaking out tural enhancements panel scrupulously Laurel Masse, Manhattan Transfer's founding member against El-Gamal’s latest move. reviews every application, singling out “The claim that it will be directed to other grant recipients that are fi nancially fea- The Uptown Brass uses is irrelevant; money is fungible, and sible. “It’s a very careful vetting process,” money given for one purpose frees up other said L.M.D.C. Board Member Julie Menin, DECEMBER 24 Christmas Eve funds to be used for other purposes,” she said who sits on the panel. The process, which 10:00 PM Christmas music in an e-mail. “The $5 million Islamic suprema- would include site visits, could take sev- cist request represents nearly one-third of all eral months. 10:30 PM Blessing of the Christmas the $17 million that is now available.” Neither Menin nor John De Libero, a Crèche and Festival Choral Eucharist The request for federal funding, Geller spokesperson for the L.M.D.C., would com- continued, “adds insult to injury” to 9/11 ment on the likelihood of Park51’s awarding DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day families who are opposed to the mosque. of the funds. 10:00 AM Sung Eucharist

www. DECEMBER 26 Sunday after Christmas DOWNTOWNEXPRESS 10:00 AM Sung Eucharist .com 10 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express EDITORIAL LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

PUBLISHER & EDITOR John W. Sutter N.Y.U.’s Superblocks days as a working port. I feel like kissing Disney-fi cation is cliché the bureaucrats who made it happen. Why ASSOCIATE EDITOR the 1970’s nostalgists long for the good John Bayles missteps To the Editor, old days of unchecked urban entropy, is ARTS EDITOR In two separate editorials in 2004, our newspapers The Talking Point jeremiad that beyond me. To all of them, I suggest a one- Scott Stiffl er called for the 50-foot-wide strips of city-owned prop- appeared in the November 17-23 issue way bus ticket to Detroit. erty on the eastern and western edges of New York of your paper by Tom Goodkind did no REPORTERS University’s two South Village superblocks to be trans- credit to your fi ne publication. I couldn’t Troy Torrison Aline Reynolds Albert Amateau ferred from the Department of Transportation to the read it without channeling the voice of Lincoln Anderson Parks Department. Dating back to a resolution passed in Dana Carvey’s ‘grumpy old man’ character 1992, Greenwich Village’s Community Board 2 has long from SNL: “In my day…we didn’t have SR. V.P. OF SALES been on record supporting this transfer, which would PLAYGROUNDS on our Pier! We played Pandering to the autocrat AND MARKETING protect the strips from development. on the street and got hit by cars and we Francesco Regini D.O.T. ownership of the strips doesn’t block their LIKED IT!” To the Editor, SR. MARKETING CONSULTANT development, whereas if Parks owned them, the state The loss of the old Tribeca Pier 25 Your November 24 issue exposed your Jason Sherwood Legislature would have to approve any transfer, sale or was surely missed. As the years of repair bias in full view. Three articles occupied development scheme. dragged on, our community suffered. But your front page: one regarding the 9/11 ADVERTISING SALES Allison Greaker With the university now pushing ahead with its ambitious on a recent windy November Saturday, health issue, another of WTC workers, the Julio Tumbaco N.Y.U. Plan 2031 expansion scheme — whose epicenter is the new Pier was packed with hundreds last about the West Thames Street bridge. the two superblocks — these strips are a key battleground of people–young families playing soccer, Forty percent of the fi rst page is devoted to RETAIL AD MANAGER between the university and the community. However, show- strolling seniors, teens on skateboards, a Bloomberg puff photo when you already Colin Gregory ing N.Y.U. woefully lacks offi cial support for acquiring the even a sun worshipper. If one could travel have an article about the Zadroga 9/11 strips, a phalanx of local politicians will assemble Sunday at back in time, say seven years to the same Health Bill. In almost every issue, you vari- BUSINESS MANAGER / CONTROLLER Vera Musa a 1 p.m. rally on LaGuardia Place between Bleecker and W. location, there would been just a fraction ously describe down to the smallest detail Third Sts. to voice support for C.B. 2’s resolution that the of that number. The old Tribeca Pier had when a parent sneezes at P.S. 234 or how ART / PRODUCTION DIRECTOR parkland strips be preserved. Joining them will be the resi- some attractions to be sure: a mini golf the east of Broadway Beekman Street school Troy Masters dents group Community Action Alliance on N.Y.U. 2031. course that would have been considered is not quite up to snuff for some west of N.Y.U. wants to acquire these strips for its superblocks threadbare by trailer park residents, a Broadway parents. Many times you report ART DIRECTOR Mark Hasselberger plans. Specifi cally, the university hopes to incorporate the dirty sandbox or two, and a large swath on the really great problems with the school current Mercer-Houston Dog Run site into the footprint of cracked asphalt. It was…better than system not being prepared with more schools GRAPHIC DESIGNER of its “Zipper Building,” planned on the site of its current nothing. for a growing Downtown child population, Jamie Paakkonen Coles gym on Mercer St. N.Y.U. says that by using this Funky? I guess that’s fair. But a ‘fantas- etc. etc. Mind you, this is due to Bloomberg’s strip area, it could bring back some form of Greene St. on tic space’? True, it was ‘informal’ and had giving away the city to his real estate cronies CONTRIBUTORS Terese Loeb Kreuzer • David Coles’s western side — which was demapped under the its share of ‘spontaneity’…but then, so do or his Board not having the wisdom to plan Stanke • Jerry Tallmer • superblocks’ original urban renewal plan — increasing the a lot of vacant lots near Shea Stadium. It for such an eventuality. Helaina N. Hovitz width of the obscure alley there now. If N.Y.U.’s strips bid is doesn’t mean I want to live near one. Let’s Then I turned to page 7. And there is rejected, then, from what we’re told, the university wouldn’t call the old Pier what it was: tattered and the most important New York City story PHOTOGRAPHERS redesign the “Zipper” project, but would build it the same full of mostly unrealized potential. Ask the of the last week – the Catherine Black Lorenzo Ciniglio • Milo Hess size — without widening the Greene St. pathway. people using the current Pier (as opposed chancellor appointment by Bonaparte Corky Lee • Elisabeth Robert • Jefferson Siegel N.Y.U. was overly optimistic to expect it could get to shaking their fi sts at it) and I bet few Bloomberg. Doesn’t that story really these strips, and this will likely be N.Y.U.’s second set- would choose to jackhammer the lovely qualify for the front page? Or does INTERNS back in its superblocks plans. As we editorialized six native grass planters and playgrounds in the autocrat’s underhandedness (like his Andrea Riquier years ago, the university doesn’t deserve these strips, order to bring back the prior windswept third term deception) and his lack of for one, for failing to step in and fi x up the dilapidated ‘funky’ version. And their numbers will “transparency” (to use the word of the and sunken playground and seating areas on Mercer St. surely decrease once the burger joint, Upper West Side academics; remember, Published by between Houston and Bleecker Sts. Yes, D.O.T. owns proper bathrooms, beach volleyball, mini we used to call it “truthfulness”) not qual- COMMUNITY MEDIA, LLC these strips — but given that N.Y.U. was always rumored golf and more amenities come online. ify as the lead story? Perhaps Downtown 145 Sixth Ave., NY, NY 10013 to be stymieing the strips’ transfer to Parks, ultimately, To compare what The Hudson River Express just shills for Bloomberg or has Phone: (212) 229-1890 the university is responsible for their decrepit state. Park Trust has done to ‘Disney-fi cation’ he promised some new creative job titles Fax: (212) 229-2790 Of course, the fi rst, stunning superblock setback came is not just a cliché in this case. It’s simply at Bloomberg, LLP? (Perhaps Assistant On-line: www.downtownexpress.com last week, when N.Y.U. announced it was abandoning dead wrong. Unless I missed the half pipe VP of Communications, VP of Public E-mail: [email protected] its plans to site a fourth tower — 400 feet tall — within next to Adventureland, it’s hard to imagine Relations, or Assistant VP Kiss-Up?) the landmarked Silver Towers complex on Bleecker St. a more comprehensive design for giving I look forward to your continuing to

TM Gay CityNEWS N.Y.U. had to withdraw after Henry Cobb, partner of the something for everyone to enjoy. Perhaps present major news of the schools front complex’s legendary designer, I.M. Pei, wrote the city’s being kid-friendly means unfriendly to and center even if it taints the petty auto- Landmarks Preservation Commission last month, calling the Tribeca version of the ‘get off my crat’s image. Downtown Express is published every week by the site inappropriate. As Cobb wrote: “…[A] fourth tower lawn’ crowd. I’ve seen adult painters and Community Media LLC, 145 Sixth Ave., New York, N.Y. 10013 (212) 229-1890. The entire is profoundly destructive to the landmarked entity, because photographers and fi shermen doing their Walter Silverman contents of the newspaper, including advertising, are copyrighted and no part may be reproduced it closes a composition that was intended to be open and thing (spontaneously!) and not a single without the express permission of the publisher - upsets the carefully considered balance between solid and costumed character. © 2010 Community Media LLC. void.” As for the university now developing a shorter build- Mr. Goodkind was right about one PUBLISHER’S LIABILITY FOR ERROR Letters policy The Publisher shall not be liable for slight ing of equal square footage on its Morton Williams super- thing, though. Our new Pier WAS expen- changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. The market site at the block’s northwest corner, Cobb stated in sive. Civic niceties like our new parks and Downtown Express welcomes letters to publisher’s liability for other errors or omissions in connection with an advertisement is strictly his letter, “Ideally the corner building would be designed so revived piers on the Hudson may soon The Editor. They must include the writer’s limited to publication of the advertisement in any as to make it more responsive to its neighbors and to the succumb to the Red State, ‘government fi rst and last name, a phone number for subsequent issue. landmarked entity.” can’t and shouldn’t do anything’ mindset. confi rmation purposes only, and any affi li- Member of the New York Press Cobb’s letter is a road map for how N.Y.U. must pro- Funny that we hear few complaints about ation that relates directly to the letter’s Association ceed on its superblocks. In short, N.Y.U. must scale back the high cost of the highway that that subject matter. Letters should be less than

Member of the its plans for the superblocks, which simply cannot handle serves mostly Jersey-bound commuters. 300 words. Downtown Express reserves the National 2 million-plus square feet of new development. Indeed, Happily, we have a new lovely, free, open right to edit letters for space, clarity, civility Newspaper “responsive” and “balance” are the key words N.Y.U. must to the public Pier 25 and not a walled off or libel reasons. Letters should be e-mailed Association be supremely mindful of as it moves forward. garden for Citibank employees and their to [email protected] or can be © 2010 Community Media, LLC guests or a rotting monument to Tribeca’s mailed to 145 Sixth Ave., N.Y., N.Y. 10013. downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 11 TALKING POINT Correcting some misperceptions post-St. Vincent’s

BY CHRISTINE C. QUINN, a long list of community members, com- While Section 2806 of the New York reopen a hospital. In fact, only after we JERROLD NADLER, munity organizations, healthcare workers State Public Health Law does require have the pieces in place for a viable hospi- THOMAS K. DUANE and other advocates. the Health commissioner to make certain tal will federal funds — such as mortgage AND RICHARD N. GOTTFRIED In our efforts to move forward in meet- findings before closing a hospital, that insurance and healthcare grants — be As we move forward in the aftermath of ing the health needs of the community, section only applies if the commissioner, available. By conducting an assessment, the tragic loss of our community hospital, we we would like to correct some misconcep- not a hospital’s board, is going to force a and clearly establishing a strong founda- — the many friends, advocates and support- tions that we have recently heard. hospital to shut down. It has nothing to tion for a hospital, we can and will attract ers of St. Vincent’s — must work together First of all, the assessment is about do with the St. Vincent’s situation. The a new sponsor and generate crucial city, to take all of the positive steps we can to guiding future healthcare planning efforts board of St. Vincent’s decided to close state and federal government support. restore emergency and acute-care services to and its scope is being driven by a broad the hospital in no small part because The bottom line is: There is no magic bullet our community. Having all the ammunition coalition of community stakeholders, not of its overall debt of more than $1 bil- that’s going to get us a hospital immediately. It we need in this battle is essential. Therefore, by any private parties or special inter- lion, much of which is owed to TD Bank will take a lot of hard work to get the deci- documenting the specifi cs of what services ests. and GE Capital. It is true that a Health sions made and the fi nancing raised. No one we need with a community health assess- Additionally, North Shore-L.I.J. has Department regulation does require that is happy with this situation. In fact, we are all ment is critical to this mission. already begun development of its urgent- while a hospital is shutting down, it must angry and devastated by this tragedy. However, We believe our community needs an care center and that center will move for- care for its patients as it arranges for we are taking the needed steps to make our acute-care facility and emergency room. But ward regardless of the community needs them to be moved elsewhere. healthcare whole again. Getting good, solid it will take hard facts to convince a potential assessment already underway. Unfortunately, we cannot rely on data to prove the case is an essential part of the hospital operator to invest the necessary We would also like to clarify that while city zoning to force a hospital to re- job. So, too, are demonstrations, letter writing, hundreds of millions of dollars to fi nance the New York State Commission on Health emerge. Nowhere in the city’s Zoning community building and other advocacy, cre- a new facility, and no one else is going to Care Facilities in the 21st Century (the Resolution does it allow for a local gov- ativity and strategic thinking and planning. No gather this key data. Therefore, we, as a “Berger Commission”) did identify several ernment to force a property owner to use one tactic is exclusive. All are necessary. We community, must undertake this process hospitals and nursing homes as unnecessary a piece of land for one specific purpose must and we will work together to regain a ourselves and work together to compile that and forced mergers and closings, it did not — especially when the land is current- hospital and, in the meantime, maintain and information. state in the affi rmative that every other facil- ly controlled by the federal bankruptcy expand high-quality accessible healthcare for Opening a hospital takes more than ity was needed. In a July 15, 2010, letter to court. That is the reality of the situation. all, regardless of ability to pay. knowing in our hearts that it is needed Community Board 2, David Sandman, the And, also unfortunately, neither the fed- and demanding it fervently. It also takes executive director of the Berger Commission, eral funds received by the Lower Manhattan Quinn is speaker, New York City Council; reliable data to document to others that stated, “The Commission made no specifi c Development Corporation for rebuilding Nadler is congressmember for the Eighth the facility is necessary and will be via- recommendation or fi ndings regarding St. and revitalizing Downtown post-9/11, nor District; Duane is state senator for the 29th ble. That’s precisely what we’re trying to Vincent’s Hospital Manhattan — Greenwich the federal healthcare grants previously District; Gottfried is assemblymember for do, with the support and participation of Village Campus.” allocated to St. Vincent’s can be used to the 75th District. DOWNTOWN NOTEBOOK N.Y.U.’s towering blunder inspires us to fi ght on

BY MIRIAM KAPLAN In the meantime, we move on with the of their plans (not just the Pei block, but even it with parking on the Pei block, with no mention I want to say that this statement from Mr. Pei confi dence that we do see things more clearly more so the Washington Square Village block) of how Washington Square Village’s residents is extraordinary good news. Not just because than N.Y.U. does; and with the sure knowledge is a serious mark against them, no matter how are to get from the garage to their buildings New York University has been defeated on the that these high-priced lawyers and architects are high their ratings. That no one at N.Y.U. could — even if an entrance were to be provided on landmarks issue. But more importantly, because really only hired to see to the accomplishment of see the ugliness of the plans and reject them on Bleecker St., there would still be a minimum of it shows how completely N.Y.U. miscalculated the will of those that hire them, and not to defer that basis alone, refl ects the fact that no one at the equivalent of a three-block walk in the open in this regard. to excellence where it exists. N.Y.U. has any aesthetic sense nor any basis on from the garage to 1 and 2 Washington Square In all of our statements at the Community I have been studying the history of N.Y.U. which to execute good judgment. Village. Board 2 hearings, we danced around the rea- this week: For the university campus and for Absolutely everything about Plan 2031 shows That top-class architects would sign off on sons for objecting to the fourth tower. We were several buildings around the square they had poor judgment: the sought-after rezoning to C6-2; such a design — which effectively destroys addressing many important issues — in truth, the services of Stanford White; for Bobst they putting retail on Mercer St. when there is plenty an existing residential community that pro- not so clearly and starkly as the statement from had Philip Johnson; for the south superblock of retail one block away on Broadway; hous- vides some blessed open space in an open- Henry Cobb does — but we were on target. they had I.M. Pei — all of them great architects, ing 1,400 students in a dormitory on a block space-starved part of the city — just to sat- And yet N.Y.U. couldn’t or wouldn’t hear who had a vision about what the architectural that has about 500 apartments; increasing the isfy the expansionist plans of N.Y.U. refl ects the message. face of a great university should be and who had underground acreage, even though there is poorly on them. They may be world-class With all their high-priced consultants — a tabula rasa on which to work. a stream that runs under the two blocks; but their behavior is that of hacks who go along architects and lawyers — they couldn’t see how For Plan 2031, N.Y.U.’s biggest redesign eliminating the driveways on the Washington with anything just to get the commission. wrong they were about the overall design of effort — probably since its former University Square Village block, which would iso- Getting back to Cobb’s statement: Just because the block. And they substituted all that foolish Heights campus in the Bronx — the architects late the two slabs from each other, but more we have this good news, we cannot relax. But we talk about dialogue for a true recognition of the were constrained to work within an existing importantly would curtail the accessibility of can go forward, in the full confi dence that an army spatial relations. context. N.Y.U. hired big guns. But an existing ambulances, school buses, deliveries and so is going to form behind us. Because I certainly And in that is a great hope to take us for- context is not a proper arena for great architects forth to each of the complex’s buildings; putting believe that people will come out from the ward. Just as N.Y.U. was blind with regard to who have their own vision and ego. retail in the ground fl oor of the Washington woodwork to support us — now that they have aesthetics, they are blind to the intent of zoning. What N.Y.U. got was a plan that clashed as Square Village buildings, which would totally the confi rmation that N.Y.U. so misjudged this And it is that blindness that will defeat them in badly as plaid with fl oral print. destroy their residential nature; installing aca- one issue. the end. What was needed were not-so-great archi- demic buildings and a public mall between the So far, it doesn’t look like we will have some- tects — people who could subsume their ego two Washington Square Village slabs, which Kaplan is former chairperson, Washing- one like Pei to come forward on a white charger and come up with a design for new buildings would absolutely destroy any sense of com- ton Square Village Tenants Association’s in the coming battle — though who knows what that integrated with the existing landscape. mon community; closing the garage on the Task Force in Response to N.Y.U. Plan may happen? That the architects could not see the ugliness Washington Square Village block and replacing 2031 12 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express M.A.T. Dragons undefeated, win fi rst Championship

won on a touchdown pass and pulled off SPORTS the come back victory in front of a stunned crowd. The M.A.T. Dragons entered this year’s “I’m very proud of the way my team NYC Flag Football League Manhattan overcame adversity, didn’t get down on Borough Championship as the team to beat. themselves, and remained close as a team They had a record of 14-0 and were the to come back in that game and win,” said number one seed in the tournament. coach Chris Piccigallo. “That game was a The Dragon’s fi rst game against Salk wake up call and set the stage for the rest of School of Science, 3-7, looked like an easy the playoffs for us.” contest. Salk had never beaten M.A.T. in the M.A.T. proceeded to steamroll through last 8 years. But M.A.T. found themselves the remainder of the tournament until they tied at the end of regulation, forced into again had to come back from a 12-0 defi - overtime against a Salk team that seemed cit in the championship game against the to do nothing wrong. And after Salk scored M.S.131 team. They went on to win by a touchdown and converted an extra point, a score of 34-30 after an interception and the best the Dragons could do with their last run back by Elliot Haynes and a touch- possession left was only tie the game. down by Raleak Tanner. After claiming the “Basically, M.A.T. had to score from 40 Borough Championship, M.A.T. faced the yards out and then convert an extra point winners from the Bronx, M.S. 298 for the just to tie. The crowd, parents, and every- NYC Championship. On a beautiful evening one watching thought the game was over along the East River, the Manhattan champs and that Salk had just pulled off the biggest jumped out to a 19-0 lead but the Bronx upset in NYC middle school sports his- team brought the score to 32-27 with fi ve Photo courtesy of M.A.T. tory,” M.A.T. Athletic Director and League seconds left and had a chance to pull off the The M.A.T. Dragons (above) won their fi rst ever NYC Flag Football Championship Commisioner John DeMatteo said. “It was win. With one second on the clock and the and fi nished the season undefeated. totally inconceivable that they would come ball in the air, Mikio LaCapra from M.A.T. back.” came down with an interception and sealed happy with their situation when the going is pen in life. They’re better off for learning In overtime, M.A.T. quarterback and the win for the Dragons. good, but to not fold under pressure and to these lessons now. They’re much better off NYC league M.V.P. Robert Mendez found “I could not have been more proud of keep the spirits of your teammates up when by being student athletes at M.A.T.” Forrest Ruiz for a pass and then Anthony the way our football team represented our you’re down is a life lesson that our kids M.A.T. looks forward to its winter sports Peralta in the end zone on a long bomb and school,” said DeMatteo. “They overcame have learned. To get up when you’ve been season, where it will once again look to be then tacked on the extra point. Salk would setbacks and adversity and that is the mark knocked down. It happens in sports and I a powerhouse in boys basketball after fi nish- answer and in the fourth overtime M.A.T. of a true champion. Anyone can win and be want our kids to understand that it will hap- ing 24-1 last season.

There’s so much you want to see

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As a member of Weill Cornell Eye Associates, Dr. Sun offers a range of ophthalmic services including complex cornea and external disease, retinal and vitreous disorders, glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology, oculoplastics, and neuro-ophthalmology. Dr. Sun is on the faculty of Weill Cornell Medical College.

Dr. Sun is fluent in English, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Sun, please call (212) 312-5250.

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downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 13 Holiday vibe is cult-like

her husband and two young children. “It’s Continued from page 1 fun that the kids remember this is where we get our tree.” prices. “To offer these services is expensive. When asked whether the family would let [The customers] have a right to be demand- SoHo Trees decorate their tree for them, she ing,” Lechner said as he fl icked the ash from replied, chuckling, “Oh Gosh, no.” Unlike his cigarette onto the fl oor of the R.V. meals, when the family often resorts to He conducts business there on an average takeout, she said, decorating the tree is one of 21 hours a day, calling the job a “cult-like activity the family carves out time for. dedication.” His co-workers refer to him as “[Decorating] is part of the experience “Willie the Hat: Pontiff of SoHo.” of it all,” said Kelly Connelly and her Parents with children and young couples college roommates, who strolled by SoHo strolled by the SoHo location last Sunday, Trees wearing Santa Claus hats, pushing a several of them stopping by with the intent shopping cart and boasting above-average to buy. bargaining skills. The college girls got their “I’m not spending $200 on a Christmas $115 tree reduced to $90. tree,” said Wall Street resident James SoHo Trees’ decorators bring in a small Fegarty, who is accustomed to paying $150 chunk of the profi ts for the company. Lechner maximum in London, his hometown. SoHo hires young freelance artists like Alice Grant Trees supervisor Daniel Kirby explained that and Billy Gonzalez to dress the trees with these are premium plants that last fi ve or six lights and ornaments, an additional $50-to- weeks, rather than the typical two or three. $100 service. “This one was cut three days ago,” “We’ll talk to the customer, and they’ll Lechner said, pointing to one in a large stack give us a few key words,” Grant explained, of wrapped-up trees. such as a color theme or lighting pattern. Fegarty, who bargains for a living in They also help out with some housekeeping the insurance business, managed to bargain tasks in the R.V., such as creating colorful down the price to $175 for a tree and a labels for the ornaments on sale in a tent mixed-foliage, Fraser Fir wreath. at the SoHo branch. The month-long job, “I’m basically giving you the wreath for she and Gonzalez said, is a good source of free,” Kirby said, hoping that the short-term steady income. fi nancial loss in the sale would turn Fegarty Other members of the “cult-like” team, into a full-time customer. like Kirby, work 18-hour shifts. SoHo Trees The wreaths, like the trees, are mostly is like a brotherhood, Kirby said, and an hand-sheered with machete knives at approx- escape from a quiet life in Wasilla, Alaska. imately 15 different tree farms around the “I feel like part of the family – [Lechner] country. They are cut to order and delivered is kind of like an older brother fi gure,” Kirby to the sites by 18-wheeler trucks on a need- said. by-need basis. “We demand that our trees be Scott Gartland, nicknamed “little Scott,” as market-fresh as possible,” Lechner said. has been doing it since he was 14 years “And that’s no bull.” old. He’s grown accustomed to not seeing Other passers-by were regulars that come his wife and children back home in upstate back every year, willing to invest in an New York for a whole month, including annual relic in the name of tradition. SoHo Christmas Day. “This is what Christmas is resident Carl Finegan put down $265 for an to me,” he said. “It’s indoctrinated [in me] eight-foot tree, delivery service and a bottle since I was a young age.” of preservatives. “We’re going away for He added it hurts a little more every year Christmas,” he said. “It’ll be good to have it not to open Christmas gifts with his family. when we get back.” Yet Gartland, like Kirby, returns every “It feels like a community place,” said year. Tribeca resident Rebecca Hunch, whose “It’s a labor of love for us,” Lechner annual tree shopping at the company’s SoHo chimed in, between sales calls. “The money’s location has turned into a yearly routine with okay, the vibe is great.”

Downtown Express photos by Aline Reynolds Willie the Hat: Pontiff of SoHo (left) busy at work in his R.V.; FiDi resident Kelly Connelly and her college roommates (top); Rebecca Hunch and her son, Todd (middle); and SoHo Trees’ Javier Echeveste (bottom) busy trimming. 14 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express Not televised, but cherished nonetheless

Though it’s the tree at Rockefeller Center that usually hogs the spotlight this time of year, the tree lighting at the South Street Seaport last Friday had quit the fanfare and was spectacular in its own right. One could say it’s the dif- ference between the locals and the tourists that sets the traditions apart.

Downtown Express photos by Milo Hess Are you ready for the Holidays?

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PS/IS 276 WINTER CARNIVAL: The PS/IS 276 Winter Carnival is scheduled for Sat., December 11 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 55 Battery Place. There will be potluck food, carnival games and a holiday tag sale. The school would appreciate donations of new or gently used household items such as toys, books, kitchen items, small furniture and electronic gadgets but adds, “Sorry, no clothes, linens, or plush items at this time!” Place donations in the collection box at the school before December 9. For more information, contact Julie Brown at [email protected] or Magda at [email protected]. 2 World Financial Center, 24-hour access: Tom Goodkind, a member of Community Board 1’s Battery Park City Committee, has secured what he calls “a small victory” for neighbor- BY TERESE LOEB KREUZER hood residents. Brookfi eld Properties, which owns the World Financial Center, has agreed to keep the walkway in 2 World HOLIDAY LIGHTS: Battery Park City’s traditional tree- Financial Center open 24/7. This walkway connects Vesey lighting ceremony takes place on Thursday, December 2 from Street on the north with Liberty Street on the south. “I recall 5:45 p.m. to 7 p.m. in South Cove. Three Cedars of Lebanon fi ve years ago during a cold winter when my daughter and her trees will be outfi tted with multi-colored lights for the occa- friends from Bronx Science went to a late-night Battery Park sion. “They’re a very elegant, gracious tree,” said Abby Ehrlich, City movie and then tried to walk from the north to the south,” director of programming for the Battery Park City Parks Goodkind wrote in an e-mail. “The security guards told the girls Conservancy, which runs the event. “The refl ection of the col- that the World Financial Center was closed. The same occurred ored lights in the water of South Cove is quite magical.” when I tried this winter to walk to my E train to work before 6 Santa Claus is always on hand for the tree lighting, and a.m. The guard would not let me through.” people bring unwrapped toys, books and clothing that are At a recent Battery Park City Committee meeting at Downtown Express photo by Terese Loeb Kruezer donated to Stockings With Care, a charity started by Battery which Brookfi eld representatives were present (to talk about Stockings With Care, a charity started by Battery Park Park City resident Rosalie Joseph to provide holiday gifts the Winter Garden staircase, which Brookfi eld says needs City resident Rosalie Joseph, is the benefi ciary at this to children in crisis who would otherwise not have the fun to be demolished), Goodkind asked about the 2 World year’s tree lighting ceremony. holiday that so many children experience. (See last week’s Financial Center passageway and the Brookfi eld reps said Battery Park City Beat for more information about Stockings the connection was open. However, said Goodkind, they the walkways open 24/7,” said Goodkind. Just to be sure, he With Care.) “It’s sort of like you’re coming to a party where later “e-mailed me to say that it actually is not open; they, of checked with the guards on duty. “’Yes,” they said. ‘You are you bring something with you,” said Ehrlich. “What we’re course, have always closed the walkways from midnight until now allowed in at all times — it’s a new rule we just heard asking is not something for each other but something for 6 a.m.!” Goodkind said that he “insisted” via e-mails, with about.’” others who need things.” support from various Community Board 1 staff members, Hot chocolate, hot cider and cookies will be served, that the community needed access.” Last week, the request To comment on “Battery Park City Beat” or to leave and there will be caroling led by Suzze, Maggie and Terre was heeded. “I received a very nice email from Brookfi eld Battery Park City information for possible use in the column, Roche. telling me that due to my efforts, they are now going to keep e-mail [email protected]. downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 17 Dog owners feel slighted

right now it’s a lot of hypothetical back-and- Continued from page 8 forth. The point of the trial is to observe what happens so we can make an intelligent deci- dogs uptown, as pets are not permitted to sion about whether it’s a good idea or not.” ride in taxies, buses or trains. As more apartment buildings go up, “For people who don’t have cars, this is Galloway points out, the number of Battery Park City Day Nursery really unfortunate,” said Yee. ”Sometimes I Downtown residents will increase — and so rent a car to take Piper out to Prospect Park, will the puppy population. Where loving and learning go hand in hand and it can be costly.” “Bringing our dogs to the lawn is a com- Plans for the lawn have not been published munity building activity. When you talk to Now Offers Toddler “Meet & Play” on the Battery Park City Parks Conservancy’s the people that bring their dogs there, you website, leaving many asking just what it is fi nd they’ve met some of their best friends 5VFTEBZ

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 XXXCQDEBZOVSTFSZDPN Fighting over space attends P.S. 234, isn’t even aware of the Continued from page 4 D.O.E.’s regulations for its public schools. “He’s an innovative thinker — I don’t Griffi th feels she would greatly benefi t from think he’ll excel as much as [he would] in more individual instruction from teachers a situation that’s new and fresh-thinking,” inside the classroom. she said. “If what [I.M.C.S.] is professing is one- Rose added that her son is a bit shy in on-one individual attention with a child, social settings, and would thrive in group working with them on their goals… I think projects and other collaborative work embed- that’s huge,” Griffi th said. ded in the I.M.C.S. curriculum. Griffi th himself attended the Cambridge D.O.E. spokesperson Jack Zarin- School of Weston, a small private school in Rosenfeld said the D.O.E. would make Massachusetts, which he said had a wide vari- a fi nal decision on the Tweed site in the ety of subjects and an open-minded approach next month or two. Meanwhile, I.M.C.S. to learning. “I could involve myself in my edu- awaits approval from S.U.N.Y., which Hoey cational process, which I really really liked,” requested in mid-November. he said. Sending Ruby to a private school in “I think it’s a tragedy that this all [results] in New York City, however, is fi nancially not an fi ghting over space,” Hoey said. “We’re all just option for him and his wife. trying to do wonderful things for the kids.” Yvette Rose, parent of Tyler Rose, who The parents opposing I.M.C.S. agree. Fracking moratorium started to purchase leases in order to drill Continued from page 1 into the Marcellus Shale, located in upstate New York, and one of North America’s larg- servation Committee Chair Robert K. est natural gas resources. Sweeney echoed Silver and said, “Decisions The Independent Oil and Gas Association regarding the safety of our water and air of New York released a statement on Tuesday shouldn’t be made in haste, but should be that said “politics” had “trumped facts” in the result of careful study and deliberation.” the Assembly debate. If signed into law, the moratorium would The I.O.G.A. of N.Y. claims the language remain in effect through May 15, 2011. of the bill could adversely affect jobs not con- All parties are not happy about the mora- nected to the Marcellus Shale debate and that torium. Many gas companies have already are currently underway throughout the state. 18 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express Trinity history highlighted

fi rst president of the society, and Hamilton, Continued from page 6 the second. Across from the monument room, on the north churchyard, once the city’s public north side of the church is a small chapel burial ground, is the site of the graves of two — All Saints Chapel — where the Reverend printers — English-born William Bradford Morgan Dix is buried. Reverend Dix (1827- (1663-1752) and German-born John Peter 1908) served as Trinity’s rector for 46 years. Zenger (1697-1746) — whose tussles with As the congregation grappled with whether government helped establish freedom of it wanted to be “high church” and adhere the press in the United States. Some of to the imagery of Catholicism though not the people in the graveyard are not as well allegiance to the pope, or “low church” with known, but their tombstones refl ect major less formality and ritualistic pomp, Reverend events in the city’s history. The tombstone Dix came down on the side of “high church.” of two brothers, Peter and John Huggeford, By the end of the 19th century, Trinity had both doctors who died within 17 days of decided in favor of “high church” but the each other in 1795, for instance, bears wit- fi ght was bitter. ness to the yellow fever epidemic that swept The cenotaph of Rt. Reverend Benjamin the city that year. T. Onderdonk (1791-1861), fourth bishop There are Revolutionary War soldiers in of New York, recalls that controversy. The the graveyard, a signer of the Declaration of bishop’s memorial, which fl anks All Saints Independence, delegates to the Continental Chapel, looks like it could have come out of Congress and U.S. Congressmen and Westminster Abbey as he lies in state with an Senators. But towering over all, though angel at his head and a lion at his feet. In fact, his monument is far from the largest, is in 1845, the bishop was tried by the Episcopal the memory of Alexander Hamilton (1757- Church’s governing body. He was accused of 1804), whose tomb in the south church- “immorality and impropriety” — groping and yard describes him as a patriot, solder and fondling a number of young women. He was statesman and rightly says that his “talents convicted and suspended, though some people and virtues will be admired by grateful pos- said the bishop was innocent and had been terity long after this monument shall have found guilty because of his high church sym- mouldered into dust.” Hamilton — aide-de- pathies. Trinity Parish supported him through- camp to General George Washington, fi rst out his ordeal; as archivist Gynedd Cannon Secretary of the Treasury, founder of the remarked, his memorial was tantamount to Bank of New York, the U.S. Coast Guard a public slap in the face to those who had and the New York Post, and architect of the opposed and condemned the bishop. fi nancial system that established the cred- The Lessons and Carols service on ibility of the United States — was killed by December 4 will be very “high church” with CFL@JGIFM>8I8>< building is another testimonial to Hamilton ecy to fulfi llment in scripture and song,” created by his grief-stricken comrades in the Trinity says in a press release. “The tradi- Revolutionary War who called themselves tion is based on an inspiring Christmas Eve )+C\feXi[Jk7N\jk9ifX[nXp The Society of Cincinnati — named for service that began in England in the 1880’s. Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus who, 2,500 During the 1900’s, the service grew into a years ago, left his farm to lead Rome when vibrant rite fi lled with music.” EfnXZZ\gk`e^DfkfiZpZc\j the city was invaded, and who resigned his Those who would like to participate offi ce and returned to his farm when the should arrive at the church at 3:30 p.m. in )''%''g\idfek_gcljkXo crisis was over. George Washington was the “festive attire” for the taping. Dfek_cpZXijgXZ\jXmX`cXYc\ :Xcc]fiiXk\j1)()$))-$.-')

Downtown Express photo by Terese Loeb Kreuzer Trinity Church parish, which was chartered in 1696-1697 by King William III of England, has had many famous and wealthy New Yorkers in its congregation, includ- ing members of the Astor family who paid for the elaborate marble reredos in the sanctuary. downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 19

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Dec. 17 through Feb. 25 at the DR2 Theatre (103 E. 15th St.). For tickets ($39), call 212- 239-6200. For groups of 10 or more, call 646-747-7400. Visit www.dearedwina.com for YOUTH additional details and full playing schedule. HANUKKAH CELEBRATION AND OPEN HOUSE The Educational Alliance Pre- school hosts this FREE Hanukkah event for Kids & Families. Come celebrate Hanuk- kah and learn about Educational Alliance programs for toddlers and preschoolers. ACTIVITIES Festivities will include Hanukkah arts & crafts, dancing, sing-a-longs, storytelling, dreidel games, kosher refreshments, tours of the Preschool and more. This year’s celebration will also feature a premiere screening of a new series called “Shalom PENNY JONES & CO. PUPPETS Penny Jones & Co. Puppets present their own friend- Sesame” (from the creators of Sesame Street). “Chanukah: The Missing Meno- ly, funny take on two classic tales. “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” tells the familiar tale of an rah” finds that super-special blue monster Grover in stressing when his special apprentice whose attempts to have others do his work results in predictable chaos when friend Anneliese van der Pol (of “That’s So Raven” fame) gets caught in a game he tries magic instead of muscle. “The Fisherman & the Genie” has a humble fisherman of tag with a chicken and loses her special menorah — just as Chanukah is about catching a genie who grants a wish that soon finds the fisherman and his wife missing to begin! This first-ever communal viewing of the film, coordinated by the JCC their frugal, simple life. There will also be a participatory Whale Game — in keeping with Association, will be a special holiday treat for kids and parents alike. Sun., Dec. the nautical theme! Sun., Dec. 12, 11am & 1pm at the Westbeth Community Room (155 5, 10:30 am to 1 pm at The Educational Alliance Preschool (197 E. Broadway. btw. Bank St. btw. Washington and West Sts.). For tickets ($5), call 212-924-0525. Visit www. Jefferson & Clinton Sts.). FREE. Appropriate for children age 6 and under. For info, pennypuppets.org. call 646-395-4251 or visit www.edalliance.org/preschool. NOTE: The Preschool offers full day, half day, extended day and 2, 3, 5 day/week options. Financial aid is CHANUKAH WONDERLAND What happens for eight consecutive nights, is different available. To learn more and set up a tour, please call 646-395-4250 or email pre- each time, but always includes sizzling latkes, delicious donuts, menorah lighting, choco- [email protected]. Applications are due December 30th, 2010. The Preschool late Chanukah gelt and prizes galore? The answer’s not exactly a brainteaser, given that is located at 197 E. Broadway on the Lower East Side. this is a Chanukah (Hanukah?) listing. But one thing’s for sure — the fact that this par- ticular celebration is jam-packed with fun (and maybe some jam for those latkes?) is a FIRST COMMUNITY MUSIC NIGHT Every Monday night, Manhattan Youth and Trin- no-brainer. “Chanukah Wonderland” is My Little School’s gift to you. Dec. 1 through Dec. ity Wall Street combine creative forces to bring you chamber music in a relaxed setting. 8. Locations, times, prices vary. For event details and registration, visit www.mylittle- Music lovers of all ages are invited to listen or get involved. If you play violin, viola or cello schoolnyc.com. (and can read music), bring your instrument along and join the seasoned pros of the Trinity Photo by Leo Sorel Chamber Players. Mondays, 7pm to 9pm, at the Great Hall (in the Downtown Community DEAR EDWINA After debuting in 2008, scoring two Drama Desk nominations and The Trinity Youth Chorus gathers outside St. Paul’s. Center, 120 Warren St.). Call 212-766-1104 or visit www.manhattanyouth.org. enjoying a successful 2009 holiday season run, the musical “Dear Edwina” is fast becom- ing a seasonal family-friendly tradition in league with visiting the Macy’s windows and TRINITY YOUTH CHORUS: CAROLING CONCERT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE YOUR EVENT LISTED IN THE DOWNTOWN presenting a long wish list to a certain jolly fellow on temporary leave from the North The choirs of the Trinity Youth Chorus and the ISO-Trinity-Florentine Youth Orchestra (PS EXPRESS? Listing requests may be sent to [email protected]. Please Pole. This heartwarming show about the joys and frustrations of growing up. Has our 89, PS 315, Chinatown-Florentine, Peppercorn, Junior and Senior Choristers) invite you provide the date, time, location, price and a description of the event (at least three spunky heroine, (advice-giver extraordinaire Edwina Spoonable) sharing he wisdom on to an informal concert of holiday music — with a reception in the Parish Hall after the weeks in advance of the event date). Information may also be mailed to 145 Avenue everything from setting the table to making new friends. That it’s done through clever, concert. FREE. Fri., Dec. 17, 7-8pm at Trinity Church (Broadway at Wall St.). For info, call of the Americas, New York, NY 10013-1548. Requests must be received three weeks catchy and poignant songs makes the experience enjoyable and engaging for kids who 212-602-0800 or visit www.trinitywallstreet.org. before the event is to be published. Questions? Call 646-452-2497. know what Edwina’s going through as well as adults who remember what it was like.

Trinity Wall Street Let’s do something together trinitywallstreet.org

music & the arts community worship

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 1pm SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 1pm SUNDAY, 8am and 10am Concerts at One The Humanity of St. Paul’s Chapel Rose Ensemble Supporting Others An energetic celebration of Trinity Church The Tribute WTC Visitor Center Communion in the round.

presents Susan Retik and Maureen TUESDAY, DECEMBER 7, 1pm SUNDAY, 9am and 11:15am Fanning, two women whose husbands Concerts at One Trinity Church died on September 11. Retik helps Anna Tonna, mezzo-soprano Worship, preaching, and ceremony widows in Afghanistan; Fanning and Rupert Boyd, guitar in the best Anglican/Episcopal helps families with autistic children. St. Paul’s Chapel tradition. Sunday school and child 74 Trinity Pl care available. special worship education MONDAY – FRIDAY, 12:05pm SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 3:45pm Holy Eucharist SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 10am Service of Lessons and Carols Trinity Church Mary: An Islamic Perspective This Anglican liturgy traces the birth What does the Koran say about THURSDAY, 5:15pm of the Messiah in scripture and song. Jesus’ mother Mary? Led by Evening Prayer This service will be taped for ABC Lucinda Mosher, Th.D., author All Saints’ Chapel affiliate stations. and interreligious educator (inside Trinity Church) Trinity Church 74 Trinity Pl, 2nd Fl Parlor Watch online webcast

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 10:10–11am TRINITY CHURCH Leah Reddy Sunday School Classes Broadway at Wall Street All events are free, Children learn to encounter God in ST. PAUL’S CHAPEL unless otherwise noted. their lives through music, crafts, and Broadway and Fulton Street lively discussions. Pre K-5th grade, trinitywallstreet.org · 212.602.0800 The Rev. Dr. James H. Cooper, Rector an Episcopal parish middle school, and high school. The Rev. Canon Anne Mallonee, Vicar in the city of New York All Are Welcome 74 Trinity Pl, 3rd Fl downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 21 DOWNTOWN EXPRESSARTS&ENTERTAINMENT Baby, it’s Hot Inside Downtown theater brims with ideas brought to boiling point

BY TRAV S.D. November was such a busy month that I only saw one show from last month’s col- umn: but I saw it 50 times. The show, of course, is Philip K. Dick’s “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” — playing at 3LD Art & Technology Center (www.3ldnyc.org) through December 10. I would love to give it a glowing review, but seeing as how I am in it that might be construed as more than usually biased. Therefore, we turn our attention to the virgin snows of December…. I am luridly expectant at the prospect of seeing “What She Knew” — playwright and critic George Hunka’s retelling of “Oedipus Rex” from Jocasta’s point of view. In this pro- duction, the “First of the Red Hot Mamas” will be played by Gabriele Schafer. Schafer is best known as one half of the company Thieves Theatre, which she ran for many years with her husband Nick Fracaro, and was most notorious for a theatre piece they did in the early 90s in which they lived in a Photo by Greg Cook Continued on page 22 Susie Perkins carries a heavy burden (see Theater for the New City, page 23). 22 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express ASK FOR HOMEMADE MACARONI Ravioli 11.00 December Downtown DAILY Baked Ziti 11.00 Lasagna 11.75 SPECIALS HOT HERO SANDWICHES Theater: Hot, Hot, Hot ~ Free Delivery Chicken Parmigiana 8.75 Chicken Cutlet 8.75 ($7.00 Minimum) ~ Sausage & Peppers 8.75 Continued from page 21 Potato & Egg 8.75 Eggplant Parmigiana 8.75 PIZZA PIES Meatball Parmigiana 8.75 teepee at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge for Veal Cutlet Parmigiana 10.00 several months. More recently, I saw Schafer Neapolitan 16.75 Grilled Marinated Chicken 8.75 play both Hamlet’s father and mother in a Chicken, Mozzarella & Lemon 8.75 Sicilian 12 slices 25.00 Butoh-infl uenced version of the Shakespeare Chicago 16.75 Italian Philly Cheese Steak 8.75 play (“Q1: The Bad Hamlet” — produced Small Neapolitan 13.00 Mini Pie 7.50 by New World Theatre). The hair-raising performances I saw makes me to think there LARGE SELECTION OF TOPPINGS 3.75 Each HOT PLATES CHICKEN couldn’t be a better person to do an “eroti- DAILY SPECIALTY PIES Eggplant Parmigiana 13.00 cally transgressive” one-woman show about (CALL FOR PRICE) Chicken Parmigiana 13.00 Oedipus’s mother. The production is under Chicken Marsala 14.00 CALZONES 6.50 topping 1.75 the rubric of Hunka’s company, Theatre Chicken Francaise 14.00 Minima, and will be playing at Manhattan Chicken Sorrentino 14.00 SALADS VEAL Theatre Source, December 1-11. For more info: www.theatreminima.org. House Salad 6.50 Veal Milanese or Parmigiana 14.75 Caesar Salad 12.00 Veal Marsala 14.75 I am also happy to report that Theatre Grilled Chicken 10.00 ROLATINI Askew’s “Horatio’s Rise” — written and Spinach Salad 5.75/8.50 Chicken Rolatini 14.75 directed by Jason Jacobs — opens at The Greek Salad 5.75/8.50 SEAFOOD Cell (www.thecelltheatre.org) on December Fried Calamari (appetizer 10.00) 15.00 Pasta Salad 5.75/8.50 Shrimp Scampi 15.00 1. Producer Tim Cusack has been doling Caesar with Chicken 7.50/10.00 Calamari & Linguini (red sauce) 15.00 out tidbits about the show to me for over SELECTION OF APPETIZERS, Grilled Salmon 15.00 a year knowing as he does of my abiding SOUPS & SIDES (see full menu)* Prices may vary interest in all things 19th century. The titu- lar “Horatio” is, of course, Alger — author We Specialize in Catering of scores of rags-to-riches novels that were considered inspirational in their day, if a bit Let us cater your next party — Your place or ours preposterous in our own. In Jacobs’ play,

'REENWICH3Ts212-732-5959 212-941-9163 a teacher introduces a wayward student to Photo by Lee Wexler “Ragged Dick.”(Stop giggling now. I mean -ON 7EDAM PMs4HUR 3UNPM AM In an experimental ant colony, a worker it!) From what I can glean, the play has seri- ant worships a Queen Ant after the Queen gives a motivational speech. See “Mapping Mobius.” I am luridly expectant like” story about a bunch of radical left- ists in Arizona (don’t they know that’s at the prospect of seeing McCain country?) Of the cast, Becky Byers, Gavin Starr Kendall, Iracel Rivero, and JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER “What She Knew” — Alexis Sottile are well-known and heavily endorsed by me. The others approved by HOLIDAY STOMP playwright and critic association. The production will be at St. RED HOTHOLIDAY STOMP Mark’s Church. There’s more info available RED HOT George Hunka’s retelling at www.incubatorarts.org. Several shows at Theater for the New of “Oedipus Rex” from City this month tickle my fancy. First, there’s the annual return of the seminal Off-Off 2  Jocasta’s point of view. Broadway company Bread and Puppet 11 / Theater. This is the 39th year the com- pany has come back to TNC, and it’s always FAMILY MATINEE DECEMBER impressive to see those eerie, gigantic, medi- 8 ous overtones without ignoring the unavoid- eval-looking puppets move about TNC’s cav- able humor inherent in some of Alger’s ernous Johnson Theatre. This year’s produc- 11 work. Having enjoyed several of this com- tion is entitled “The Return of Ulysses to His 10 pany’s productions, including “I, Claudius,” Homeland and the Decapitalization Circus.” 9 “Cornbury” and “A Night in the Tombs,” I Hmm…. wonder if it will be political? The feel comfortable giving this one an advance production runs December 2 through 19. Wycliffe Gordon and all-star New Orleans musicians “thumbs up.” The run is just one week, end- Also opening on the 2nd is Matt Morillo’s DECEMBER ing on December 5. For tickets and info: “Angry Young Women in Low Rise Jeans www.theatreaskew.com. with High Class Issues.” While its tagline, November 2 through 11, the “Even though it’s a play, it doesn’t suck” Incubator Arts Project will be presenting strongly inclines me to throw their press “Emancipatory Politics” — written and release in the wastepaper basket, its prom- CenterCharge directed by Eric Bland and his company ise of “foxy, urban women” in (let us not 212-721-6500 Old Kent Road Theater. I’d previously seen forget) “low rise jeans” has convinced me and enjoyed Bland’s “The Protestants” — to do the big thing and give the production Box Office / Entrance Broadway at 60th which had its absurd aspects, but it looks a second chance. This is the show’s second as though he is embracing Incubator Arts’ NYC revival since its premiere in 2006, JALC.ORG experimental mandate and trying some and it has been produced as far away as Preferred Card of Jazz at Lincoln Center PHOTO OF WYCLIFFE GORDON BY PLATON new things, including puppets and “move- ment through the space” in this “collage- Continued on page 23 downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 23 December Theater

refers to recent legal decisions that make it Continued from page 22 possible for corporations to commit all man- ner of calumnies under the pretense that Australia, so someone must like it. “Angry they possess the same rights as individual Young Women” runs through December 12. human beings). The fest includes nine short “Dollface” — opening on December 23 — is plays in two separate bills, and to give you a fl a- less interesting for its concept (a Queens vor, here’s a description of “Oh, Donna” by the woman enrolls in a comedy class and then excellent young playwright Lucille Scott Baker: gets involved with a jewel heist) than for “A young heiress (and friend of Paris Hilton) its personnel. Several of the collaborators who has organic tendencies with organic juice have interesting music biz credits on their and a few secrets, takes over the world’s third resumes. Co-composer Rob Hyman is a largest communications company.” I’m there! founding member of The Hooters and song- And lest there be any doubt about the subver- Authentic Facilities • Expert Instruction • Best Value writer of Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time.” sive tendencies of this festival, all shows are His collaborator, David Forman, has writ- FREE! Why, it’s downright un-American. “The ten and recorded with Bette Midler, Cyndi Corporate Personhood Play Festival” is a co- Lauper, Aaron Neville, Jack Nitzsche, Ry production of Horse Trade Theater Group and Cooder, Maryann Faithfull, Levon Helm, Taj The Subjective Theatre Company. More info at: Mahal and others. “Dollface” runs through www.subjectivetheatre.org. January 16. For info on all three of these Finally, I would be remiss in my duty as a shows as well as others at TNC, go to www. corrupter of public morals if I didn’t recom- theaterforthenewcity.net. mend these sick, twisted holiday shows. “Mapping Mobius” at LaMaMa E.T.C.’s December 3-11, one of the funniest perform- First Floor Theatre promises to be a trippy ers I know — Bradford Scobie — brings his experience. Taking as its inspiration the “Moisty the Snowman Saves Christmas” eponymous, technically impossible “strip,” to Dixon Place. This parody of Rankin-Bass it’s supposed to describe what happens holiday specials, penned by and starring when a scientist delves into a model of his Scobie, was a hit of last year’s NY Musical own mind, presumably winding up in some Theatre Festival (www.nymf.org) and also sort of feedback loop. Far out! (If the fuzz stars the great Murray Hill, among others. is reading this, I didn’t inhale.) At any rate, For info: www.dixonplace.org. if you too want to have your mind blown, December 10-30, End Times Productions “Mapping Mobius” — by The New Stage — the folks who brought you “Manson: Theatre Company (www.newstagetheatre. The Musical” — return to Ace of Clubs org) — is playing December 2 through the with their 4th annual “Naked Holidays.” The Best Sports Programs, 19. This “Yuletide Bacchanalia” promises an On December 6, Terranova Collective’s array of comedy sketches involving Adolph Hands Down! Groundbreakers Playwrights Group is pre- Hitler, the Tea Party, and, by my count, 13 senting “Bug Out!” — a bill of ten-minute scantily clad showfolk. Talk about roasting With 10 different sports and over 300 classes a week, plays inspired by the word “bug.” If you’re chestnuts! For tickets: www.endtimespro- not a fan of creeping insects, don’t fret. The ductions.org. the Field House offers Manhattan’s best sports programs organizers have given the artists wide latitude Over at PS122, December 15-19, for children of all ages. as to how to interpret their mandate and the you can catch “Brothers and Sisters and products of their imaginations are just as liable Motherf**kers.” This solo show — featur- Little Athletes to include irritated humans, or hidden record- ing one Jibz Cameron as Dynasty Handbag SPRING (12 months – 5 years) ing devices. The quintet of young scribblers — takes us to a Handbag Family Holiday SEMESTER Soccer | Gymnastics | Dance | Micro-Sports includes Lauren Feldman, Andrew Kramer, Dinner featuring “hatred, drugs, murder, spi- Tee-Ball | Flip-N-Kick | Flip-N-Twirl Nick Mwaluko, Leah Nanako Winkler, and der, old babies, secrets, the devil, grandma Halley Feiffer (daughter of Jules and a mul- and explosives.” For info: www.ps122.org. STARTS Youth Sports Development titalented artist in her own right. She not And on December 14, don’t miss me JANUARY (5 – 16 years) only writes, but acts. You may have seen her as the titular slasher in “Jack the Ripper’s 24TH Soccer | Gymnastics | Baseball | Basketball | Dance in “The Squid and the Whale”). “Bug Out” Holiday Spectacular” — along with my cho- Flag Football | Rock Climbing | Martial Arts | Youth Fitness plays one night only, December 6, at HERE rus of cuties, The Bleeedin’ Tarts, piano man Arts Center. For more info, go to www.ter- Albert Garzon of Ixion Burlesque, country Chelsea Shears ranovacollective.org. duo the Tall Pines, contortionist Amy Harlib, NEW Hair Salon for Kids December 7 through the 15, the Kraine burlesque side show artist Foxxx Trot and CP Building Blocks Theater will be the site of “The Corporate music hall chanteuse Lorinne Lampert. It’s AT THE FIELD HOUSE (18 months – 5 years) Personhood Play Festival.” I like the name all at Bowery Poetry Club. Be there or be Enrichment program for children with developmental needs. and the theme of this festival very much (it square! See you next year! The Field House at

Read the Archives 23rd Street & Hudson River Park www.DOWNTOWNEXPRESS.com 212.336.6520 | www.chelseapiers.com/fh GIVE A CHELSEA PIERS GIFT CARD THIS HOLIDAY Golf • Spa • Field House • Sky Rink • Available Online 24 December 1 - 7, 2010 downtown express RMA Explores Buddhist Culture, Himalayan Art

BY STEPHANIE BUHMANN expression through religious iconography and symbolism. By Since opening its doors to the public in 2004, the Rubin spreading enthusiasm for its subject, the museum hopes to Museum of Art has become the Western world’s premier achieve its ultimate goal — to help preserve a culture that institution for those seeking a comprehensive look at counterbalances an increasingly fast-paced world that suffers Himalayan culture. from a global attention-defi cit disorder. But what does Himalayan art actually describe or entail? While succeeding in exuding an immediate sense of Is it strictly art of a Buddhist background? A visit to this calm, the museum’s exhibition space is quite impressive. It engaging museum makes one point clear immediately: spans six fl oors and about 25,000 square feet. A striking Himalayan art, as well as its geographic roots, are intriguing- spiral staircase dominates its core, evoking a Mandala-like ly diverse. Characterized by Tibetan, Nepalese and Kashmiri structure of a circle that is set within a square. The staircase religious culture, it is infl uenced by Buddhism — but also by organically connects the various fl oors, some of which are Hinduism, Bon and various other indigenous religions. dedicated to the permanent collection and others to periodi- The fact that Himalayan art and culture enjoys an cally changing displays. increasing popularity in the West is in part refl ected in the Structurally, it initiates a dialogue among Himalayan museum’s 100,000 annual visitors. Founded by the collec- paintings, sculptures, textiles, ritual objects, and prints from tor Donald Rubin in 1999 as a nonprofi t institution, the the 2nd to the 20th centuries. All installations are organized museum not only focuses on establishing and preserving a with a focus on education and frequently feature comprehen- permanent collection of artworks, but also on showcasing sive wall texts that supply the viewer with aesthetic, social, exhibitions that refl ect the vitality, complexity, and historical and historical contexts. The works on the second fl oor serve signifi cance of its fi eld of study. One of the fi rst revelations as an intentionally didactic introduction to the museum’s is that the Himalayan region is extensive and multi-faceted, overall discourse. comprising parts of Afghanistan, Myanmar, the Tibetan The basics of Buddhist iconography and symbolism are Plateau, Nepal, Kashmir, Bhutan, as well as the northern- presented in an easily accessible manner. Sculptures and most regions of India and Pakistan. works on paper (most of which were originally scrolled) Governed by an independent board of directors, the feature Buddhas (enlightened persons), Bodhisattvas (awak- museum’s mission entails the exploration of connections ened beings who aspire to attain enlightenment), Tantric between Himalayan art and other world cultures. Along Deities (deities who personify various enlightened qualities these lines, it aims to address a broad audience, including and can have many heads, arms and legs to symbolize their both specialized scholars and novices. It indeed serves as abilities), Wrathful Deities and Female Deities. Here one a serious international study center, as well as a tranquil can learn about the meaning of postures, for example, which place that can simply be enjoyed by all. In that sense, the function as keys to the compositions. Image courtesy of the Rubin Museum of Art Rubin functions as an institutional ambassador. It does not “Shakyamuni Buddha” — Tibet; 16th century. Pigments advocate a religion, but a rich culture that fi nds its artistic Continued on page 25 on cloth (44.25 x 35 in).

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Buddhist Culture 5)*3%
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Continued from page 24 0AC8BC?4A5>A<0=24B4A84B ! 8 88 One realizes that a hand gesture tells you not only about intentions, but specifi es the 4@72/GA.%(!>; identity of the fi gure engaging in it. A hand >3@4=@;/<13A0GB67@2AB@33B4/1C:BG loosely pointing downward in fact “touches 7<B63/=C7DB^WO\] delusions or mental affl ictions), namely igno- example, Harlem in the Himalayas (now in ;CA710G0=C:3H230CAAG/<2=CB7A rance, attachment, and aversion. The fi gures its third season, occurring on select Friday 14 on the right side are being led down in dark- evenings and presented with the National B0A07?A0CCdW]ZW\;CA710G0/16 ness, while those on the left side are led up Jazz Museum in Harlem) features renowned in radiance and light. Stories of glorious or jazz artists who are asked to play at least 2120A>;H=94B4;B>7=QSZZ] punishing worlds that await us after death one piece inspired by a work of art in the 0]S5aXT]Sb exist in most religious traditions. However, museum during their performance. in contrast to Christian and Muslim beliefs of Until April 11, 2011, the Rubin will ;CA710G0/160/@@7Ê@3/<253;7<7/<7 Paradise as a fi nal state, Buddhism views it as present works by fi ve artists of different gen- ÀcbS=T[[XTBT]V^WO\] only one station in the endless cycle of death erations and ethnicities, working between A>274;;48CI4= ;CA710G0/162CB7::3CF/<2D7D/:27 and rebirth. At its ultimate, it is a place where 1960 and the present. All of these artists fi nal enlightenment might be attained. have contemplated the fl eeting nature of all 28 In addition to its permanent displays, things. Here, color photographs by the South E0=4BB050380;^WO\] it is through periodically changing exhi- Korean Atta Kim stand out. Employing a 0a^]IT[Z^fXRiQSZZ] bitions and innovative educational public long exposure technique that in the case of ;CA710G0/@03@234/:://<2A16C;/<< programming that the Rubin encourages its a street in New Delhi, for example, leaves audience to explore the artistic legacy of the the architectural details crisp and the street 430@C/@G Himalayan region and contextualize it. Its action a mysterious blur. Kim addresses 4 educational program includes a 10-session Buddhist notions of impermanence and the 270<14A3@4=@;32;CA710G4/1C:BG;3;03@A through Art,” which teaches students in a subject.  grades K-12 basic art techniques using the Considering the Rubin’s extensive out- 11 43H24B<8C7 November, one could witness the pioneering are surely unique, it certainly fi nds a tasteful B6/<9G=C bS\]`O\Ra]^`O\] video artist Bill Viola discussing Buddhist refl ection in our multi-faceted metropolis. FTPaTVaPcTUd[c^cWT\P]h 0]S5aXT]Sb X]SXeXSdP[bU^d]SPcX^]b references in his work with the Tibetan lama R^a_^aPcX^]bP]SV^eTa]\T]c /4@71/</;3@71/<A>7@7BC/:A/<2;CA710G Ponlop Rinpoche, hear the British actor The Rubin Museum of Art is located PVT]RXTbcWPc\PZT^da 3::7<5B=</<28=>:7< Brian Cox pondering existentialist questions, at 150 W. 17th St. (btw. Sixth & Seventh _a^VaP\b_^bbXQ[TcWa^dVWcWTXa or watch famed fi lm director Mike Nichols Aves.). Hours: Mon. & Thurs, 11am-5pm. VT]Ta^dbbd__^acVT]Ta^dbbd__^ac 7D67B0<^WO\] addressing the emptiness in contemporary Wed., 11am-7pm. Fri., 11am-10pm. Sat. =A7B7==4;8DBB<8C7^WO\]0]S5aXT]Sb ing the past and the future. At times, these is free on the fi rst Monday of the month. =@757=A7B7=

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Repairs, upgrades, installations, troubleshooting, instruction, Be KIND to custom-built PCs and consulting. yourself 212-242-7221 TUTOR and Creative Minds' Tutoring Be Kind to others Pre-Kindergarten to Adults All subjects/levels, educational nannies, developmental therapies, itinerant teaching, — June G early intervention & party planning. Call Elizabeth @ 718/812-1910 FURNITURE REPAIR Furniture Refinished Need to place Reupholstered polished & repaired. Hand rubbed finish a legal ad if desired in your home. Antiques restored. Over 45 years exp. for your business? Free estimates. Call 646-452-2471 Call Alex 1-800-376-6757 Jason Sherwood / Senior Marketing Consultant Cell: 917-837-4012 [email protected] www.myspace.com DRORI ANTIQUE RESTORATION downtown express December 1 - 7, 2010 27 Just Do Art! NUTCRACKER IN THE LOWER Like a fruitcake wrapped in ribbons and given to you annually by your least favorite relative, self-professed “daring and new” productions of “The Nutcracker” come our way every year and immediately proceed to overstay their welcome. So get a jump on the holiday glut of medio- cre productions and get your bad Downtown-minded self to the limited-time-only Urban Ballet Theater version. “Nutcracker in the Lower” brims with salsa, krumping and hip-hop. The party scene, traditionally depicted as an opulent 19th-century Ball, becomes a holiday salsa party. Native American and African styles reinvent the Angels’ and Arabian divertissements of the second act — with enough classical ballet to retain the ballet’s traditional fl avor (Tchaikovsky’s original score remains largely intact throughout). Performances are Dec. 1, 2, 3 at 7:30pm, Dec. 4 at 3 & 7:30pm and December 5 at 3pm. To purchase tickets ($20), visit www.theatermania.com or call 212-352-3101. Group & Things that make you go boom: Vintage boomboxes family discounts are available. At Abrons Arts Center, Henry brighten up “Unsilent Night.” Street Settlement (466 Grand St. at Pitt). Visit www.abron- sartscenter.org and www.urbanballettheater.org. Photo by Isaac Rosenthal UNSILENT NIGHT 2010 Chelsea Rittenhouse and Andres Gonzales. Phil Kline’s annual holiday event takes place in more than 27 cities around the world — and with a stat like that, you know NYC is among the unusual suspects. HOLIDAY EVENTS AT THE MERCHANT’S HOUSE members. Reservations required. On Fri., Dec 10 at 7pm, “Unsilent Night 2010” — the local version — is cel- Do you pine for a holiday experience that harkens back to “To All, Wassail: A Concert of 19th-Century Holiday Songs ebrating its 19th year of gracing our good town with those days of old — as in, say, the mid-19th century? If so, & Stories” features The Bond Street Euterpean Singing a boombox parade that defies description, logic and look no further than the Merchant’s House Museum. Built Society (MHM artists-in-residence) in a concert of vocal expectations. This participatory experience lets march- in 1832, MHM exists year-round as a lovingly curated time quartets, solos, holiday readings and sing-alongs ($25, $15 ers become their own roving sound sculpture — as they capsule offering a glimpse into the lives — and mindset — of for MHM members). Reservations required. On Dec. 17, swarm through the streets of the Village blaring record- the prosperous merchant-class Tredwell family (whose vari- 18 & 19, “An Old Fashioned Christmas in New York: Tours ings on cassettes, CD’s, mp3’s and, of course, the hum- ous members occupied the house for nearly a century). by Candlelight” offers tours beginning every 20 minutes, ble but proud boombox. Kline describes the experience Dec. 2 through Jan. 10, the exhibition “Christmas Fri., 6-9pm, Sat. & Sun., 4-8pm. The halls will be decked as “like a Christmas caroling party except we don’t sing, Comes to Old New York” uses recreated scenes of holi- and the rooms lit by fl ickering candlelight as costumed but rather carry boomboxes, each playing a separate tape day preparation to reveal how modern holiday customs actors relate the Christmas tradition of mid-19th century or CD which is part of the piece. In effect, we become a came to be. Included with regular museum admission New York ($20, $15 for children 12 & under, $10 MHM city-block-long stereo system.” Free. Sat., Dec. 18, 7pm. ($10, $5 for students/seniors). Tues., Dec. 7 from 6-8pm, members.). All events take place at the Merchant’s House Gather at the arch in Washington Square Park, and less the “19th-Century Holiday Party” lets you enjoy holiday Museum (29 E. Fourth St. btw. Lafayette & Bowery). For than an hour and mile later, end up in Tompkins Square decorations, savor festive delicacies, drink from the “Bowl info and reservations, call 212-777-1089 or visit www. Park. For info, visit www.unsilentnight.com. of Bishop” and join in the caroling. $25, free for MHM merchantshouse.org.

HOLIDAY RECORD & CD SALE not a used, returned or defective product in the bunch. What food stylist neighbors left behind “TONS of high-end and The ARChive of Contemporary Music’s Holiday Record you will fi nd, though, will be mostly pop and rock record- everyday kitchenware.” Support the ARChive mission by & CD sale helps support the ARChive — a not-for-profi t ings, collectible LPs priced below book value, hundreds of becoming a member, and you’ll shop the sale before the gen- music library which collects, preserves and provides infor- CDs priced at $1 to $5 each and cassettes 4 for $1.00. Not eral public and be welcomed at their Dec. 9 cocktail party. mation on popular music from 1950 to the present (ARC enough? There will also be many hard to fi nd 7” singles, For membership details and other info, call 212-226-6967, keeps two copies of all recordings released in America, and shelves of new music books, African, reggae & world-music visit www.arcmusic.org and check out their blog (arcmusic. their collection numbers over two million sound recordings). releases, classical LPs (most for 50¢ or LESS), videos, 60s wordpress.com). The sale takes place Sat., Dec. 11 through There will be over 20,000 items for sale — but don’t worry psychedelic posters, and Sony Yule log DVDs (just released Sun. Dec. 19, daily from 11am to 6pm. At 54 White St. (3 about depleting the permanent collection. The items are new by Johnny Cash, Mariah Carey and Kenny Chesney, for $5 blocks south of Canal, btw. Broadway & Church. Take the 1 donations from record companies and collectors, and there’s each). For the dis-en-vinyled, ARChive’s newly-departed train to Franklin, or any train to Canal). TRIBECA DENTAL For the Whole Family General Dentistry & CosmeticDentistry + Implants Bleaching + Orthodontics

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