(FY)Information - 2011 through a Lense

I realized pretty early on that my brain works similar to a camera (unfortunately the same can't be said for my teachers and guardians). I look at an image, develop it and store it to memory. I learn through visuals, understand through visuals and think in visuals. These are reasons why I understand people more through their body language rather than the BS spewed from their lips. I believe these brain mechanics helped develop my passion and eventual career in filmmaking. Nothing sums up an event, experience or year like a perfectly timed photograph. They're often a powerful trigger that can take you back to a time and place, reigniting the feelings that your loss of memory struggles to find. Click on the links below and jog your memory of 2011 through some powerful imagery.

Links to Year in Review:

45 Most Powerful Images of 2011

Reuters Photographs of the year

(spot)light - Hurricane Bawbag or Why I love the Scots

Hurricane Irene wreaked havoc for thousands along the east coast this past summer, causing flooding, downed-trees and left many without power. The act of calling Irene, Irene, comes from a long history of humans personifying nature with boring ass names. These names in many ways represent hysterical ignorance. For example, hurricanes that hit the West Indies in the 19th and early 20th century were named after saints. Of course they'd be named after saints, as they were clearly a blessing in disguise. The US weather service only named hurricanes after females until the 1970s, when they finally decided that men could destroy homes too. Check that as a win for the women's rights movement. All the hurricane naming system really does is put a perfectly OK name out of commission. How many Katrina's do you think have been born since 2005? My guess is not many.

Enter the always hysterical and brutally honest Scots. Today Scotland was hit with a rare inland hurricane. With 100mph+ winds and serious storm surges it would seem nothing to make fun of. In traditional Scottish fashion that's exactly what they've done. The Scots endearingly named the storm Hurricane Bawbag. No one is really sure where it started but boy has it caught on. Not just the young, hip and twitter-obsessed are using it. Council members, meteorologists and Scots of all ages and types are referring to this storm as a nut sac - or an idiot, depending how you use it. It's moments like these that remind me of why I look back on Scotland so fondly and how much I often miss the country and people. The weather... now that's another story.

(FY)Information - Power of Suggestion

Hundreds of days have passed since the corruption sting that led to several incarcerations and two open council seats. Today marks the first time voters can have a say in who should be appointed to these positions. With that being said, this blog is my attempt at motivating folk to get to the polls and help shape local politics. Just pretend it's a Friday night and you're on your way to your favorite watering hole. Or kindly reward yourself with a drink after doing your civic duty. If we would come out to vote like we do for lagers we would carry some serious political clout. The polls are open from 6am to 8pm.

While I'm at it, I'd like to publicly throw my rising weight behind Dan Levin. Dan Levin sits on the board of Bike JC and has a long record of advocating for the arts and proper political reform. He's intelligent, hard working and a true believer in progressive ideals. There are 17 people running for these seats, so look for Dan's name in the bottom right of the ballot; 15f.

(spot)light - Swedish Garbs

H&M officially opened its doors in Newport last Thursday offering 2 floors of skintight clothes. The location carries ready-to-wear for men, women, tweens and rug rats. Cutting through the mall I could not ignore the blaring beats of Ke$ha, matched only in annoyance by the gaggle of giggling schools girls flocking to the newly opened retailer. While the men's section was half the size of the ladies, it still offered some stylish and affordable (i.e. Made in Bangladesh) choices. This store is yet another small step in H&M's quest to rid the world of baggy jeans and solid colors.

The real story is not in this small, somewhat inconsequential opening, but in H&M's rise to the top of the retail food chain. H&M (Hennes & Mauritz) has climbed its way up the ladder becoming the world's 2nd largest fashion retailer. H&M has over 2,300 stores in 41 countries and made a staggering $716,000,000 profit between June and August of this year alone. Can't get enough of the euro apparel but find yourself under court ordered house arrest? No worries, the US online store is set to launch in spring of 2012.

Wandering around Newport? Make your way to the often-ignored Payless Shoes wing.

(night)crawlers - Mother Nature f***s Graveyard Grooving

After weeks of planning by the king of JC entertainment, 'The Ghost of... Uncle Joe's Halloween Benefit' has been moved out of the graveyard and into Gallery 58. Dancing Tony released a statement on his blog citing Mother Nature's sudden winter wrath as the reason for the move.

The upside: All monies collected will go to the JC & Harsimus Cemetery and Dancing Tony will be dancing to that killer lineup.

The downside: Your once a year chance at grooving amongst graves must wait another year.

The verdict: Get your costume on and rock the f**k out. I'll see you there.

the Ghost of Uncle Joe's Halloween Benefit for the Historic JC & Harsimus Cemetery @ Gallery 58
Sat Oct 29th $10 Donation

Gates 5 pm
5:30 First Resurrection
10:00 Final Burial

5:30 Vice Presidents of the USA - [Zac Quayle, Gerry Agnew, and Robert Gore]
6:15 Nirvana [Friends of Chewie]
7:00 The Faces [The Milwaukees]
7:45 U2 [The Black Hollies]
8:30 The Cure [Robert and the Blacksmyths] 
9:15 The Ramones [Glenn D & the Lodi 3] 
all night with Jam Master Jay [DJ Scott FREE]

SORRY THE GO-GO'S ARE ON VACATION

10:30 Zombie Parade to the Lamp Post


After Life Party with
1:10 Smashing Pumpkins - Meet/Pause
12:30 Weezer - They Had Faces Then 
11:50 Foo Fighters - Holy City Zoo
11:10 The Talking Heads - Aminal
10:30 The Exploding Hearts [ JC Tattoo Employee Friends with Benefits Plan]

(FYI)nformation - Moms vs. Ben & Jerry's Balls

The 1 Million Moms group, a Christian organization known for tackling the most pressing issues, have come out in protest over Ben and Jerry's Schweddy Balls. Calling the new ice cream flavor 'vulgar,' the moms can no longer sit quietly as Vermont's Finest gets its "Saturday Night Live" homage on. The group was already stark raving mad when Ben and Jerry came out of the closet with "Hubby Hubby," the world's first gay themed ice cream. Ben and Jerry are clearly trying to inoculate our kids into gluttonous, cream-loving mo's.

Monica Cole the spokesperson for the Mississippi based group stated that they are putting a lot of pressure on retailers to resist the lure of Schweddy Balls . When asked about Ben and Jerry's Scweddy Balls, Cole responded, "I realize it could be a lot worse, but are they going to get progressively worse if we don't say something?" Exactly.

Never mind that Mississippi ranks worst in the U.S. in science and engineering or the fact that it has the highest poverty rate in the nation. The 1 Million Moms group knows what matters most when it comes to their children's future. Please join the 1 Million Moms group and me when we boycott the cumquat.

Read the full News article here: Some stores freezing out Ben & Jerry's new flavor

PostScript: I read a fair amount of useless information. I feel like sharing.

Also: It's been a while since I've blogged.

(spot)light - Street Styles - Van Vorst Park

Hello (in)Flux followers, Colby Kelly here writing a blog for ChrisTopher.  If you don’t already know, I’m your local vintage stylist entrepreneur and I am here for all of your questions and concerns, really, try me!

So the new thing I am doing this summer, aside from sporting color-blocking attire, is setting up a table at flea markets in our local parks. Not only will I have my own amazing goods to offer, but also I’ll be checking out and highlighting some of my best finds.

(If on main page, click read more just below.)

FYI(nformation) - Jordan's Drag Day

Jordan's; 247 Newark Ave.

I can't deny that every now and then I thoroughly enjoy having my liberal, pretentious (at times) existence turned upside down due to my own assumptions. This was certainly the case as I made my way to catch the train to the East Village. The Camel junkie that I've once again become led me to stroll past Jordan's Lounge after scoring a pack on Newark Ave. While walking past the large windows, probably due to some narcissistic need to steal a quick glance of myself, I saw what appeared to be a rainbow flag. After processing the image and storefront I immediately came to a halt and turned my bewildered ass around. Could Jordan's Lounge be promoting a gay night? Not so said I. If not for any reason then my belief that the majority of urban hip-hop culture is almost as far from acceptance of gays as those crazies who surround fallen soldiers' funerals. I mean "no homo" anyone? Much to my pleasantly surprised and thoroughly confused eyes was this:

Wrong Assumption; Jordan's

Jordan's has officially joined the ranks of Opie & Anthony and most U.S. bars in helping Hump Day get your flash, drink, freak and now drag on. It was also clearly the cause of some extreme thought and a bizarre jolt of toxic shock. Could Jordan's be the only ongoing Drag Queen/King show in JC? Jordan's demands JC to "Work it Out" on Wednesdays. Emphasis clearly on the OUT. Take note Star Bar.

Peep the show on the last Wednesday of every month. $5 cover.

(chow)down - on Search for that Slice - 3 Guys from Italy

New Digs; JFK Boulevard

It's been years since I've had much reason to head to Journal Square. Once the heart of this growing city, the Square personifies what could have been. And while the revitalization is often spoken of and pictured in numerous artist renditions, the Square has ways to go. The last time I ate in the Square was at the delicious and terribly missed Canton. But everything deserves a second chance and with the Loews Theater continuously playing great flicks, I had to take my search for the perfect slice to this area. That's where 3 Guys from Italy comes in. I remember when 3 Guys was nestled on a dodgy ally above the bus terminal; the ally often littered with trash, dime bags and drunkards. With no tables or chairs offered it was the epitome of a joint to grab a slice and go. I had fond memories of the pizza but could easily write that off to a serious case of misguided teenage munchies. With this bit of history in mind and current calls from readers to give it a try, I could not avoid 3 Guys. (If on main page, click read more just below.)

(watering)holes - Barcade Part 3 - the Interview

the Taps; Newark and Barrow

With a very busy opening weekend still on many minds and more than 1500 Facebook friends to chat about it, Barcade JC has certainly made its presence known. Touting 24 brilliant taps, joysticks a step away and enough space to stretch out the sudden hand cramp, Barcade JC is a good reason to let your game-geek show over some great beer. If you've been following my blog you know that I've attempted to use this platform to get a "press pass." It worked. Paul Kermizian, co-owner and director of the documentary American Beer, took a few minutes out of his wild schedule to answer some of my questions. If on main page click read more just below.

(FYI)nformation - Spring Trimming: a Massacre

Before the Chainsaw; 8th and West Hamilton

A walk around any of the 6 Wards in JC will sure to be filled with budding trees and blooming tulips. On a recent cycle through Liberty State Park I saw beds of various colored flowers in perfect rows and the fenced off area growing like an untouched wilderness. Spring has certainly taken a lot longer to arrive this year but after this past weekend I think it's safe to say it has sprung. Highs in mid 70s (23Cº) arrived just in time for the holiday. The return of spring means the return of many JC staples such as Groove on Grove, Dancing Tony's Sports Tournaments, Bike JC Group Rides and Earth Day in LSP. It's also a scary time to be a tree. Every spring, just when the local trees have begun to bud and add some much needed color, the JC Department of Public Works arrives with chainsaws and what one can only believe to be men with wonky eyes and a vengeance. (If on main page, click read more just below.)

(chow)down - on Search for that Slice - Helen's Pizza

a Downtown Staple; 183 Newark Avenue

After tallying the suggestions of pizza shops worth a visit I realized a downtown staple was not once mentioned. Helen's Pizza, a long survivor of Newark Avenue's non-99¢ store curse, has been family owned and operated since 1968. I have a long history with Helen's Pizza as they delivered the slices used in my grammar school's Wednesday lunch. I was also in the same class as the owner's daughter and she was, from what memory serves me, my first crush. I'm saying this not only as some weird need for full disclosure, but I also think it's important to show the staying power of this family business. I can't deny that I have fond memories of Helen's slices, but my palette has certainly matured since my days as a careless prepubescent. (if on main page, click "read more" just below.)

(watering)holes - Barcade Part 2

After much Delay; Newark and Barrow

After months of construction, delays, city bureaucracy, and even more delays, the doors will finally open and taps will begin to flow at JC's very own Barcade. While getting some ink done yesterday the topic of Barcade, an often discussed and debated one, proved to be a great distraction from the pinches of pain occasionally flowing through my arm. It was here that someone said they seemed set to go. After a few Google searches I can confirm that we are exactly one week away from getting to blow quarters on something other than our local Laundromats. On Friday, April 22nd a much-needed addition to the local scene will open its doors. Barcade Jersey City will have 33 vintage video games and 24 craft beers and microbrews on tap. My fingers are crossed for Southhampton Ale. Unlike Barcade Brooklyn, ours will serve food and also supply seating on the ever-interesting Newark Avenue. Great place to people watch; talk about consumption with a view. Though I wrote Barcade Jersey City to try and score some inside photos and insider information, I have not heard back and can only assume my blog has yet to qualify me for a press pass. I'm working on it. I can confirm that Barcade Jersey City will have a rare cockpit version of Star Wars, as well as old favorites like Spy Hunter and Burgertime. So mark your calendars, stack your quarters and I expect to see you all next week. 

Play Time; Newark and Barrow

(night)crawlers - Musings at Midnight

Timeless Chic; 3rd and Monmouth

Quickly becoming my favorite spot for (night)crawler showcasing, 3rd and Monmouth provides the beautiful white light and background a studio would offer; minus the expense and wicked equipment. While I imagine those living around the spotlights do not think of them so kindly, for me, it's the absence of color waiting to be filled with the stylish threads of JC (night)crawlers. It's also a good reason to stop by Abby's for a quick pint and smoke. It was here that her timeless chic caught my eye.  I respectfully complimented, smiled, glanced and stared, all while enjoying 2 pints of Yuengling and an ever amusing flow of chat. A sudden dearth of tolerable tunes was the perfect opportunity to suggest we take our intimate antics elsewhere. It also provided a moment to team the power of compliments with the power of suggestion. Perfectly posed on the white brick wall, my muse and occasional partner in crime rocked an amazing Italian leather patchwork jacket found at the Salvation Army. Black sleeves and outline surround the rich orange and yellow, highlighting the slim cut. Complimenting the 70s jacket was a pair of modern, skintight jeans and Baker shoes. Due to the fluctuating temperature layers were essential. Resting on her upper back was a dark blue hoody, while her sleeves frilled with 90s plaid. Finally, she toped it off with a purple headband, adding a touch of the 60s. While each item may connect with an era, the combination certainly does not.

Parker meets Baker; 3rd and Monmouth

(chow)down - on Search for that Slice

Living most of my life in the NYC metro area has had a huge influence on my style, politics, interests, and palette. As a kid, a slice of pizza was sure to be the highlight of school lunch. While that might say more about my school's menu than it does pizza, the perfect combination of cheese, tomato sauce and dough cannot be denied. A slice is my idea of comfort if it's cooked to a crisp with a healthy dose of cheese. With that being said, I often look at the pizza options in JC with ambiguity. While I can read off a list of slices one must have while in Manhattan or Brooklyn, I struggle to find a slice in JC that I can stand behind 100%. After a few discussions with friends and reading over pizza threads on JC List, I thought it was time to put JC slices to the test. Over the coming weeks I will happily ingest as many slices as my wallet can afford, documenting each pizza shop and slice for all to read. A quick glimpse in the yellow pages provides the addresses of way over 100 spots to choose from. I do not have the time, energy, funds or abs to hit them all. That's where the folks of Chilltown come in. While I already have a few spots on my hit list, I am looking for suggestions in helping me find the best slice. If you think your local joint needs to be reviewed, leave a comment so I can check it out. I'm not doing this quest alone. As I prefer my slices plain, I am bringing a meat lover and a veggie lover along for the ride. So hit me up with suggestions, spread the word and check back for what will hopefully be a successful quest of ingestion.

(the)Skinny
All slices will be rated on the quality of cheese, sauce and dough. Any variation in slice i.e. meat, veggie, deep dish etc will be highlighted and rated separately. I doubt the best slice is in downtown, so be sure to tell me of other joints worth a visit.

If you're in Manhattan or Brooklyn and in need of a slice, here are 4 suggestions not to be missed.
1. Co. - 230 9th Ave. (at 24th Street) Chelsea
2. Ben's Pizza - 123 MacDougal Street
3. Grimaldi's - 19 Old Fulton Street Dumbo, Brooklyn
4. Otto Enoteca Pizzeria - 1 Fifth Ave. (at 8th Street)

(watering)holes - Thirsty Thursday at the Lamp Post

Thirsty Thursday has become a ritual amongst myself and many of my fellow Velvet Undergrounders. I enjoy hanging on a Thursday night far more than Friday mostly because you can avoid the "9-5" Friday crowd. Friday is overwhelmed by weekend warriors ready to let loose all the angst that a "real" job has left them to drink away. If you're out on a Thursday night there is usually something more liberating about your schedule. This distinct group of (night)crawlers are usually students, artists, insomniacs, musicians, bohemians, eccentrics, hipsters, addicts of some sort, and the unemployed. This past Thursday was no exception. As mentioned in my recent blog, FYI(nformation) - 2 of 4-day Catch Up, a lot went on. The night was able to begin after I finally admitted to both myself and friends that I would attend Inked magazine's party at Lucky 7s. Much to my horror it was more than full. I am not one for tight spaces, especially if I have yet to loosen up with some booze. Unable to move or escape constant brushes against my lower body, I quickly planned my escape. Best idea ever. My roommate and I headed to the Lamp Post for some much needed personal space and beer. The crowd was a cool mix of locals and random strangers; a welcome change from a scene often littered with familiar faces. Bands were set to play and all seemed hyped to give a listen.

The first band had no problem filling the space with sound, but struggled to make a connection. While their guitar riffs were certainly catchy, the lead vocals left something to be desired. His voice often fell flat and off key from what I believe was a mixture of nerves and an inability to hear himself. Set to follow were a group of young guys who call themselves "The Embracers." With a sound that brought together a dance-worthy combination of rock, country, blues, and funk, The Embracers performed with energy and maturity. Matt Condon, the lead singer, had a voice that demanded attention. The only analogy that comes to mind is if Bob Dylan and Conor Oberst had a lovechild. Condon even offered up some well-sung harmonies with Mike Neglia, the band's talented drummer.

Vocal Harmony; 2nd and Brunswick

(the)Skinny
The Lamp Post provided some much needed refuge in what was an overall chaotic evening. While 7s was surely a sight filled with tattooed beauty, the Lamp Post came with no attitude and some good tunes.  Though the Lamp Post overcharges for Yuengling ($5 a pint, get real!) they match 7s with cans of PBR for $2.50. If you need a break from the everyday hubbub, this might be your spot. Especially if you luck out with a live music act like The Embracers. A lot should be said for a young band that can stand out in a room that often drowns those playing in it. The Velvet Undergrounders and I were on our feet before they broke into a jamming cover of the Grateful Dead's Casey Jones. It's one thing to know your music, it's another to know your crowd.

(day)breakers - There's the Sunshine

Spring Casual; 8th and West Hamilton

Besides allergies, there is little that doesn't excite me about the coming of spring and summer. Due to this past winter's fury, I find the slight uptick of mercury in the thermometer overly exciting. Last week the temperature, albeit just for a day, hit 70°F (21°C). The parks exploded with humans of all ages, taking in the heat and doing something that has escaped us for months; soaking in some vitamin D. With the change in season, comes a change in style. All wear less, girls tend to get tighter. Though recent male trends have embraced form-fitting t-shirts and cut skinny jeans. I applaud and certainly partake. Seems to be the democratic way. Now all, no matter of gender or orientation, can enjoy the tightening and disappearance of clothing. So to hell with wool and tweed; bring on the cotton, spandex and glimpses of skin. We thoroughly deserve it.

Cole Haan meets Jegging; 8th and West Hamilton

I have yet to develop a solid way of stopping someone in the street when they catch my eye. On the positive side, all who I have asked were game. Negative side, I'm painfully awkward. I think it's the compliment and camera that seals the deal. I first saw this fashionista reading in Hamilton Park. I was test riding 30+ bikes and couldn't help but steal peaks as I rode by. I'm sure my constant change in bike was baffling. I was drawn to how casual, yet stylish she looked. Especially when reading a book in the setting sun. Not to interrupt her reading, I waited until she left the park to make my request. Think more respectful and less creepy stalker. She was chill and wished me luck. I did the same.  

FYI(nformation) - 2 of 4-Day Catch Up

As you may (or may not) have noticed, there has been a 4-day pause in posts. I've only been doing this for a little over 2 weeks now, but this lax in writing was my first break. I lacked the discipline to sit down in front of the computer and get my words onto the page. Besides content and readers, there's not much else to it. Perfecting this discipline is a work in progress. Not for the sake of excusing, but for understanding, my slip in focus was caused by a bit more work, partying, healthy human interaction, unhealthy human interaction, visits from mates I never see, highs, lows, alcohol, reading, watching, smoking, attempts at intimacy, laughter, good food, depression, high fives, low fives, facebook use, and madness. While I will break each occurrence down throughout the coming week, here are the first 2 of my 4-day catch up. For the proper literary effect, please read with speed.

(wednes)Day 

Work from 9 to 9 and should of been more tired than I felt. Got a text from a friend I see way too sparingly and invited him over. We laughed, smoked, and laughed some more. His bike tire popped. Bummer. We ate empanadas cooked by my roommate. Delicious. He got tired and suggested 1 beer at a local pub. Hit 7s, high-fived the bouncer, cracked open a PBR. Had to pee but the queue was less than tolerable. Laughter, loud music, great conversation, a sudden (in)flux of fake fur. 4 beers later and I knew we were out for the night. More laughter, more good music, apparent intoxication. 2am and it's time to go. Friend disappeared into a taxi before saying ciao. Look around and follow a line of people into a flat. Laughter, strange visual stimulation, I begin to poke an attractive friend annoyingly. Time to go home. Get a text while walking, so I make a pit stop. 40 minutes pass and I make my exit. Sleep. 

(thurs)Day 

Work until 8 with rumbles in my stomach, so I make a salad with grilled chicken. Promise myself I'm going to sit and write. Read a little, check facebook, and jump in the shower. Get asked about Inked magazine's gathering. Deny I'm going. Think about going. Say I'm going. Have a beer while I get dressed. Purposely attempt to look tops. Think about sex. Leave the house and head to the magazine's party. Walk in, sweat, and feel overwhelmed; way too many people. Quick face signal to my roommate and we bounce. Head to the Lamppost. Laugh, dance, listen to live music. I look at randoms with intrigue. Get impressed by one of the bands. Realize I’m paying too much for Yuengling, so switch. Other friends arrive. So does she. I stare for a moment and order a PBR. I flirt. I dance. I sing to an amazing Grateful Dead cover. Roommate gathers the troops and we head out. Couches get thrown. I witness this and walk back to the bar. Closing time. I read. Think. Sleep.

(watering)holes - the Bar that Could

a Little Patience; Newark and Barrow

After months of whispers and speculation, the much anticipated Barcade seemed set for an opening at the end of this month.  I myself could not hold back the slight delight I felt as I walked past its location and saw the sign going up. That was weeks ago and the end of the month is in t-minus a day. Stories of the Brooklyn-based bar making its way across the Hudson started many months ago and have since turned into its own urban legend. Similar to that of the supposed Whole Foods that has yet to grace us with its presence. A fellow Velvet Undergrounder, who may have landed a job at Barcade, told me recently that it was set for an April 3rd opening. That too seems to be in question after reading this on Barcade's facebook page:                                     

Barcade 

Dear friends,
 We were very close to being ready to open but we were told to add some additional sprinklers. Consequently, our architectural plans and calculations need to be re-drawn and then approved by the city, which takes time. Hope to resolve this setback soon.

(the)Skinny

I'll leave the City bureaucracy to speak for itself. On the flipside, when it does finally open, it will be a sweet addition to the local scene. Similar to that of its BK sibling, the bar will offer all American craft breweries on draft. I'll have a Southampton please. Delicious. 

Though they have yet to announce their game lineup, an owner has been quoted as saying that there will be 33 games, all from the 70s and 80s. You'll know as soon as I do; or vice versa. 

(spot)light - Vinyl for the Taking

Soul Searching; 1st and Brunswick

Thanks to a late night tweet from Dancing Tony and an afternoon reminder from one of my fellow Velvet Undergrounders, I was able to peep the vinyl giveaways that Iris Records had for the taking. 13 postal boxes were filled with discarded titles, assuring gems within the rubbish. One problem... it was close to 1pm and the street cleaner was lurking around the hood. I quickly double-parked and made a dash as the distinct roar of the useless machine passed Newark Avenue. This countdown of sorts made for a game show enthused search that ended way too quickly. Within 8 minutes of rummaging I scored some disco, bluegrass, spanish dance, Madonna, and the stories of Edgar Allan Poe. Quite the eclectic mix of freebies. So cheers to free vinyl and the friends who remind you about it. Jeers to the street cleaner and its hidden purpose.

I'll give (the)Skinny on Iris Records in a future post, but be sure to peep the shop (it's an amazing space)  at 114 Brunswick Street. Recently re-opening their doors, it's still loaded with great finds and cheap prices; only now with more organization and less cat hair. They can also be found at Creative Grove every Friday.

Up for Adoption; 1st and Brunswick

(day)breakers - Sunday Bumday

Hobo Chic; 8th and Coles

After a night of disco dancing at Barrow Mansion for Art's Sake, it's great to find people recovering in comfort. Our Pajama Partier was hanging out on her stoop, soaking in the sun and sweating out the booze. Surrounded by a troop of those recovering from Saturday evening's Art Strike, their clothes tell us all we need to know about their current physical and mental states.

Art Strike may have started off a bit slow, but it quickly turned into an evening of great JC debauchery, with sprinkles of psychedelic insanity. An eclectic mix of artists, hipsters and JC originals dancing to disco, rocking to serious guitar riffs, and bowling in lanes not equipped with machines. Characters of all sorts filled the halls to help raise money for two essential parts of the JC Art Community. With that being said, it was worth every penny plus the hangover. Peep and support 58 Gallery and Creative Grove.

Not yet Changed; 8th and Coles

(FYI)nformation - Here Hipster

Thought this picture was too good not to share. Actual set-up found by an editor on the streets of NY. This take on street art is hysterical and definitely a great piece to suddenly walk upon. I'm guilty of 2 out of the 4; which would make me 50% hipster. Though I do have Wayfarers, just not in pink and mine are $10 knockoffs from Canal Street. That still might just take me over the edge. Peep the much applauded full article, "Artists vs. Hipsters: Who’s Winning the Battle of the Bohemians?" here. It's short, filled with pictures and might just be your reading highlight of the day.
Have an idea for a trap you'd like to set? I'm down to shoot the shit and see what comes out. Lets get silly.

(spot)light - the Rise of Whiskey

I am not one to deny the fact that I enjoy a shot of Whiskey to accompany my beer. Others have taken notice, as my parents recently brought me a large bottle of Whiskey back from their travels, and I've been blamed for some friends newly acquired appreciation. I always much preferred Scotch over Whiskey, which my years living in Scotland surely cemented. Nothing beats drinking my favorite Scotch, Oban, in Oban. But I don't live in Scotland anymore and the price for an Oban is ludicrous. So enter Jameson. More often than not, there will come a point (usually after the 2nd beer) when one of my fellow Velvet Undergrounders will start buying rounds of Whiskey. Much to my surprise, we're not the only ones. Irish Whiskey, which all but disappeared in the 1960s, is one of the fastest growing alcohol exports around the world. Sales in the U.S. grew 22 percent last year. The Irish government, which recently had to borrow $90 billion from the EU due to its debt and ailing economy, welcomes the news and calls it an integral part of their exports. Distilleries are expanding, bringing much needed jobs to the Cork region.

(the)Skinny

Nothing beats the warmth of a nice Whiskey to follow the bitter chill of a PBR. If my love of an alcohol can help a struggling economy, all the better. So hit the local pub and do your good deed of the day... fill your shot, say cheers and let the Jameson taste that much sweeter. 

Looking for a recession special? To avoid paying between $6 and $9 a shot, hit up The Keyhole. It's worth it. 

Scotch and Whiskey are not the same. Read my quick summary of their differences and impress your local alcoholic. 

1. Scotch is whisky made in Scotland, while Whiskey can be made anywhere in the world.

2. For Scotch the word Whisky is always spelt without the alphabet e.
3. Scotch must be made as per the standards laid down in The Scotch Whisky Regulations 2009.
4. Scotch is generally lighter and smoother in taste than other whiskies.

(spot)light - Clever Boys

Tactless; Grand and Bates

While driving down Grand Street Tuesday morning, I was fortunate enough to have been cut off by "masculinity" on wheels. I quickly thought about how badly I wanted to promote Greater Northern Paving on my blog, and proceeded to follow them into the McDonald's parking lot. What struck me most about this company, besides my assumption that they weren't locals, was their interesting attempt at a slogan. Far more sad than funny, I'm sure this was the cause of many high fives and repeated illusions of grandeur. I can't figure out who they're marketing to. Maybe a fraternity has decided to get some serious cementing done? Don't get me wrong, I'm sure some find it hysterical. I just think, or maybe hope, it turns more off than on.

Just so we're clear, this has nothing to do with liberal (though I am) PC bullshit. It's about the rejection of thoughtless mediocrity. Greater Northern Paving's website does not work, denying me additional rant material.  

(night)crawlers - Aging with Grace

Levi meets Ralph; 3rd and Monmouth 

On a recent stumble between one (watering)hole and the next, I bumped into my nephew who's 5 years my junior. We both enjoy drinks in smoke-filled rooms, so we proceeded to have a pint at Abbys. My nephew is stylish but does it with ease. He rocked a pair of Levis and Ralph Lauren boots - Bench made; both of which were worn-in and aging gracefully.

Recently entering my 30s, I get excited when people think I'm 20 something. I don't ever feel old until that happens; my mind's admission of its desire to be young(er). I have no interest in fighting the inevitable but I do wonder how it's going to go down. Will I age like a pair of Jordache or Levis? I'm hoping for the latter.  I guess it all comes down to good genes.

In case you're following, all posts entitled "(night)crawlers" will chronicle the style worn by other creatures of the night.

(chow)down - Baking to the Bank

If Carlo bakes it, they will queue; 1st and Washington 

On a recent ride through Hoboken, the supposed birthplace of baseball, I passed a line of people that lasted two blocks long. Much to my horror they were waiting for dessert. Not just any dessert, but those baked by The Learning Channel's "Cake Boss." In its 4th season, the reality show has obviously had a dramatic effect on the store's popularity. Curious about the folk standing single file, I stopped and inquired. Not only was the average wait to enter the bakery 2.5 hours, but most of those waiting were tourists just in town for a snack.

(the)Skinny
There are few things I would wait 2+ hours for, and a better than average cannoli is not one of them. Standing on the sidewalk for a couple of hours because the family in front has an addiction to reality TV and dessert is ridiculous. Period. Full stop. This place isn't for locals anymore; neither are the prices.  
Still craving a cannoli and other damn good Italian-American desserts? Head towards Journal Square and treat yourself to Monteleone's Bakery. Half the price, minus the wait and silly Americans looking for a photo and a dose of "reality." More importantly, it's just as good (if not better), without all the inconveniences. 

For future reference, all posts entitled "(chow)down" will chronicle reviews of local eateries found on the converging streets of JC.

(spot)light - the Strokes came to Chilltown

Photo by Dean Luis

Critically-acclamied NYC locals and all around cool guys, the Strokes, stopped by Loew's JC Theatre for a music video shoot that lasted 17hrs on February 16th. The band, one of my favorites since their explosion onto the scene in 2001, will release the much anticipated album "Angels" on March 22nd. The music video is for the Strokes' single "Under Cover of Darkness." I read in a local paper that Colin Egan, the theater director, called the shoot "organized chaos." Chaos is my favorite type of organization.

To be honest, I'm not sure what I dig more, the song or how amazing Loew's Theatre looks on film. Either way, it's true listening and viewing gold. Grab your headphones, pump up the volume, sit back, and check it. For a behind the scene pic, additional ramblings and a link to the music video, click "read more." It can be found just below the facebook "like" button. While you're there, click that too. It'll be worth it... reading is (fun)damental.

(day)breakers - Post Office, Parcels, Pregnant and... Stilettos?

You might think it strange that my second blog post would highlight fashion, especially with the intensity of the current news cycle. It was always my intention to cover the garbs that dawn JC locals and it's times like these that call for some mindless observations.

It’s quite apparent why our mother-to-be caught my eye. While some might scream in horror over her homage to MC Hammer, I find the juxtaposition of her baby bump and stilettos quite satisfying. 

Just another day at the (Post) Office

Fire Island Fierce; Montgomery and Washington

Just in case anyone's reading, all posts entitled "(day)breakers" will chronicle daytime fashionistas of every sort and style on the converging streets of JC.

JC (in)Flux - So it Begins

Living in the shadows of what is arguably the greatest city in the world can be daunting and up until somewhat recently, economically and culturally debilitating.  JC has been my home for a significant part of my life, and I have seen the worst and best of what this city has to offer.  JC has served as little more than a route to and from NYC for many; but now a scene continues to grow and a voice finally registers. With a camera, an opinion and an ethernet connection, I will bring the good, the bad and the ugly of both myself and JC to the web.  A voyeur of sorts, with an opinion often expressed passionately, I will narcissistically document my daily sights, tastes, feelings, and interactions. Whether it be food, fashion, nightlife, art, debauchery, random rants, local/world events or human interaction; this blog will serve as my documentation of a person and city (in)flux.

I kindly ask for patience as I juggle freelance gigs, owning a business, everyday BS, functioning addiction(s), and a new blogging venture. Please check back often, subscribe/comment when you can and spread the word.