tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-37903547519525627332011-11-27T19:12:13.507-05:00Bennoreply@blogger.comBlogger15811100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-60623413707929617662009-11-13T20:07:00.001-05:002009-11-13T20:08:14.822-05:00

And, if you're reading us via RSS, here's our new feed: http://ditmasparkblog.com/feed/rss.

Bennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-31886386802740314162009-11-13T12:37:00.004-05:002009-11-13T13:24:16.547-05:00

Please continue reading us at our new location, ditmasparkblog.com. And please reset your bookmarks to http://www.ditmasparkblog.com!

Bennoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-40639066164016786462009-11-13T09:53:00.003-05:002009-11-13T09:56:50.255-05:00

Brownstoner is hosting a new blog from folks renovating this big house on Albemarle, full of gory details for fans of this stuff.The second installment includes this:One contractor walking through remarked, "Oh yes, the old Federal Pacific firestarters." -- and that was before he saw [fuseboxes] concealed behind [a white door] which was in the back of the "hers" closet in the master suite. Yes

Bennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-54078558813264222282009-11-12T08:47:00.003-05:002009-11-12T08:50:48.976-05:00

Matt Archambault of the NYC Social Sports Club emails that if it's fall, it's "Ice Broomball" season.His blurb:Part casual competition and part social outing with fellow Brooklynites, Broomball is played outside and on the ice in your sneakers! Their five-week season, starting December 2nd, is perfect for beginners and non-athlete types...and if you bring a few friends with skills, you may pull

Bennoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-18951326997569403312009-11-12T08:46:00.001-05:002009-11-12T08:46:53.927-05:00

To continue our obsession with this place, here's the menu: Sambal, Chutney, Nam prik, Kimchi $ 15 • Tamarind shrimp with suman sa pandan (rice cakes wrapped in pandan leaves) $ 13 • Duck leg betutu with taro leaves (slow cooked in Balinese spices and coconut milk wrapped in banana leaves) $ 9 • Korean meatballs with kimchi in purple yam pockets $ 10 • Spicy tofu & Manila

Bennoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-65156167859558803932009-11-11T09:21:00.001-05:002009-11-11T09:21:24.051-05:00

New heights of local restaurant hype from Eater, which calls Purple Yam a "potential neighborhood gamechanger." (Not too much, I hope.)Grub Street has a little more detail.The hype may be deserved: The food we had Sunday was amazing, and when we returned last night for dinner, there was a wait of at least an hour. (We consoled ourselves with Farm burgers and beer.)

Bennoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-34651379175714259562009-11-10T12:20:00.003-05:002009-11-10T12:25:52.853-05:00

Neighbor Miles Rohan emails over this invite to the Grand Meeting of the Corduroy Appreciation Club, happening tomorrow in Gowanus.The New Yorker explains.

Bennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-9562953347518449642009-11-10T09:22:00.000-05:002009-11-10T09:22:00.166-05:00

The P.S. 139 PA emails that they're hosting a Scholastic Book Fair through Sunday in the school auditorium, entrance on Rugby just off Cortelyou.The schedule:Tuesday November 10th 1 to 3pm and 5:30 to 8pm Thursday November 12th 9am to 3pmFriday November 13th 9am to 3pmSunday November 15th 9am to 2pm, including:Story Time 9:30 - 10PS 139 Co-President and actor, Christine Siracusa, will read

Bennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-78455046946070911432009-11-10T09:14:00.003-05:002009-11-10T09:18:23.423-05:00

The Daily News has a sweet, if occasionally misguided (not sure I'd cal the co-op a "cheap neighborhood staple," plug for the neighborhood today, describing it as "a peaceful place to live."Also, a nice photo of Picket Fence waiter Ozzie, above.

Bennoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-26098290072327711182009-11-09T23:11:00.002-05:002009-11-09T23:14:37.387-05:00

Sustainable Flatbush's Anne Pope passes on word of a reading Wednesday at Vox of interest to local gardeners, farmers, and eaters:Tales of Squatting, Dumpster Diving, and other Urban Farming Pursuits: A Night with Novella CarpenterNovella Carpenter raises pigs, rabbits, chickens, turkeys, and goats on squatted land in downtown Oakland. Her hilarious memoir, Farm City: The Education of an Urban

Bennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-81989532582771602292009-11-08T19:52:00.002-05:002009-11-08T20:08:55.712-05:00

We were lucky enough to have lunch at Purple Yam today, in advance of their opening Tuesday, and Amy and Romy exceeded even the very high expectations.I'm not sure what I expected of their Filipino-influenced food, but it wasn't quite this: It was milder, more accessible, and generally more easy to imagine eating more than once a week than we'd expected.The likeliest hit, and popular with the

Bennoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-82320433057531566392009-11-06T15:15:00.002-05:002009-11-06T15:21:13.814-05:00

Elizabeth Gumport has an interesting, longish, essay in N+1 about one of favorite topics of blog comments sections everywhere, gentrification.The essay reviews Brooklyn "gentrification novels" through the years fairly harshly, concluding that they're "the most recent and the most hypocritical iteration of Brooklyn nostalgia," but along the way gives an interesting tour of the genre, and has a

Bennoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-9908261866854044832009-11-06T09:11:00.010-05:002009-11-06T09:11:00.745-05:00

Right here, on Argyle, next door to the Sacred Vibes Apothecary, Sophia Sylvester of Brooklyn Flavors is whipping up lotions and potions to clean, soothe and pamper your body and maybe a bit of soul. Step in, stop by and check out the selection. Here is a sampling of flavors - you'll need to visit to find out what DP smells like: Bed-Stuy - A blend of sandalwood, jasmine, cedarwood and

Lienanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-50700447564182456932009-11-05T16:55:00.000-05:002009-11-05T16:55:56.212-05:00

Debi Ryan of Vox Pop Cafe invites everyone to celebrate its 5th Anniversary this Saturday, November 7th at 1022 Cortelyou Road starting at 8 pm. There will be great music throughout the evening as well as book readings and stories from the community at large about Vox Pop. Bring a story to share, say hi to your neighbors and friends, and help us move into the future even stronger!!

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-64487656923523554782009-11-05T14:42:00.002-05:002009-11-05T14:50:31.891-05:00

A very cool New York Times feature shows how the city voted, neighborhood by neighborhood.Ditmas Park was Thompson country, both on the blocks of apartments and of Victorians, though not as enthusiastically as East Flatbush; to the West, Bloomberg-land. Park Slope and Windsor Terrace, meanwhile, went mostly for Bloomberg.

Bennoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-66690433729416779262009-11-03T14:01:00.003-05:002009-11-03T14:03:16.717-05:00

If the candidates aren't inspiring you, P.S. 139 Parents Association co-president Christine Siracusa sends word that they're having a bake sale next to the polling place.If 139 is your polling place be sure to visit our baked goods table after you cast your ballot. All proceeds will benefit the PS 139 PA. Funding priorities for this year include the playground renovations, helping the school

Bennoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-14225474939138044082009-11-02T21:10:00.007-05:002009-11-03T21:20:44.903-05:00

Photos -- of pies, judges, and the winner -- from the apple pie contest at Sunday's farmer's market, courtesy of James Hutchinson.

Bennoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-89178814170775332182009-11-02T08:36:00.003-05:002009-11-02T14:03:36.456-05:00

They were working late there last night, and Time Out now lists them as set to open by November 11:Purple Yam Amy Besa and Romy Dorotan made their reputation serving expertly prepared Filipino food at their now shuttered Soho restaurant, Cendrillon. Ditmas Park residents are the lucky recipients of their next project, a bamboo-accented Pan-Asian eatery serving small plates. Fans of the original

Bennoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-8120795520569225282009-11-01T19:52:00.002-05:002009-11-01T19:57:34.322-05:00

Good news for those of us who don't have to be on the Q by 8: The Farm on Adderley will start serving breakfast and coffee to go tomorrow, from 8-11, and will continue at least through the month of November.The menu looks tasty and, though it's not going to compete with John's for price, reasonably affordable: The egg sandwich is $7, the omelets come in at $8, and the menu's bargain seems to be

Bennoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-47647178638443936032009-10-31T12:44:00.000-04:002009-10-31T12:49:15.864-04:00

The power is back on, and Debi Ryan emails:We are getting ready for the best Halloween Party ever.  We have lots of things planned and fun decorations, including lots of candles.Here's the line upJoin us for an all out spooky fun day at Vox Pop. Costumes encouraged and candy for all the kids!!Make Up by Anna Mitchell - Professional special effects make-up artist will do your makeup for a nominal

Bennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-85764448785885875662009-10-30T14:58:00.001-04:002009-10-30T15:00:07.466-04:00

Allison Whaley emails: Fall is here, and Thanksgiving is on its way...what better time than now to practice your apple-pie baking skills? Anyone is welcome to bring a home-made apple pie to the farmer's market this Sunday. All pie-bearers receive a greenmarket tote bag just for participating, and the winner gets a tote bag brimming with market goodies (worth between $50-$70). Judging takes

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-15151514329963678952009-10-30T09:52:00.001-04:002009-10-30T09:53:13.260-04:00

It's not, the guy there this morning told us, for the romance, but rather a dispute with Con Ed, which they hope to resolve today. More details if we get them.

Bennoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-46297311462568644962009-10-29T20:51:00.003-04:002009-10-29T20:54:07.163-04:00

Laura Graham emails that she'll be teaching a new yoga class on Thursday mornings from 8-9 a.m. at Latin Fever.Click above for details

DPListingshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09642309523944432125noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-90157043720038413352009-10-29T10:05:00.001-04:002009-10-29T10:05:00.921-04:00

New York Magazine has a short piece out on the Strange Lives of Identical Musical Twins, which is to say an interview with The National's Bryce and Aaron Dessner. Who happen to live on Stratford Road. Along with their sister Jessica (who's a poet in charge of music at Sycamore): I’ve heard you live pretty close to each other as well. A: [Laughs] Yeah. Both of us live on Stratford Road between

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-23890721479710137312009-10-29T09:00:00.000-04:002009-10-29T09:00:06.106-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-12860276812855550162009-10-28T21:45:00.000-04:002009-10-28T21:45:30.672-04:00

A neighbor wonders: Why is it that my household received several full color flyers encouraging us to re-elect Mathieu Eugene if he is running unopposed? Couldn't the money used to produce and send this flyer have been spent in a more productive way?

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-26023421749809482412009-10-27T16:36:00.000-04:002009-10-27T16:36:19.032-04:00

Two sets of our neighbors have made the finals of the Organizing for America Health Reform Video Challenge, in which supporters of the president's health care plan are choosing among 20 videos selected by a panel of top Obama aides and celebrities. The winning video will be put on the air. Above, Franklyn Strachan Jr.'s submission featuring Angela Welch Stucker.  Below, Jeremy Beiler's parody

Lienanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-34880613043929228192009-10-27T09:00:00.000-04:002009-10-27T09:00:10.950-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-80640447869708285572009-10-27T08:52:00.000-04:002009-10-27T08:52:01.379-04:00

The West Midwood Halloween Parade will be held this Saturday, Oct. 31st, at 6 pm. Everyone is invited to gather at the end of Glenwood Road off Rugby (near the B/Q train cut) at 6 for cider and snacks. The parade will begin at 6:30. Info on the Halloween Parade on Albemarle to come.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-81936912170702779402009-10-26T22:08:00.000-04:002009-10-26T22:08:18.053-04:00

From Billy the barman: Come on down to the 773 Lounge on Coney Island Avenue to watch the Yankees battle the Phillies in the fall classic. We will be offering 2$ pints and $15 beer towers. Also Danny's Rock-n-Roll kitchen will be serving up great pub grub every night til 2 am. So if you're hungry for baseball, beer or a late night snack try to the "bar around the corner.' You won't be

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-91459285405891589602009-10-26T10:50:00.002-04:002009-10-26T10:58:36.538-04:00

We are happy to learn that our neighborhood Olympic medal-winning fencers Keeth and Erinn are featured in this documentary, airing on Showtime. Via Fencing.net: Bud Greenspan's latest film, Bud Greenspan Presents: Beijing 2008 - America’s Olympic Glory, will feature Keeth and Erinn Smart and their journey from their early days at the Peter Westbrook Foundation to their silver medal wins in

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-52289345741236420022009-10-25T09:00:00.000-04:002009-10-25T09:00:34.741-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-58709180391081207392009-10-25T08:54:00.000-04:002009-10-25T08:54:57.580-04:00

Time Out New York gave our fabulous neighbor Rachel Sherman's Living Room four stars and a neat review: Multigenerational female-centric novels often involve bonding over ethnically specific formulas, or the shedding of copious, cleansing tears when a long-buried family secret comes to light. Not so Rachel Sherman’s Living Room. Mining territory she explored in her 2006 debut, a short-story

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-1465577144221809452009-10-23T14:22:00.002-04:002009-10-23T14:28:54.916-04:00

From Allison: Pumpkin painting and face painting this Sunday Bring your children and their friends! This Sunday the market will feature a children's station with paint, brushes, and decorating materials for kids to express their autumn-inspired creativity. There will also be a face painter available to paint faces (she'll be working for free, so be sure to express your gratitude!).

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-29476778608946626032009-10-23T12:37:00.001-04:002009-10-23T14:23:40.019-04:00

Sustainable Flatbush Tree Walking Tours this Saturday, 11:00 and 12:00 noon. More here. Daffodil Day in Kensington was  rained out last weekend, so will take place this Sunday. Join your neighbors as we plant daffodil bulbs on Church Avenue and its side streets. In the spring, watch the flowers that we planted bloom! 9:00am - 12:00 noon. More here. Farmers Market as usual on Sunday, 8:00am -

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-76495479607929662362009-10-23T11:44:00.001-04:002009-10-23T11:45:52.866-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-37787150981624374512009-10-23T11:39:00.001-04:002009-10-23T11:53:50.221-04:00

For Oct 23, Oct 30 and Nov 6, SafeWalk will operate in Ditmas Park, Flatbush and Kensington, providing a free bicycle escort to anyone who doesn't wish to walk alone, from 11 pm to 2 am. For a safe walking escort in Ditmas, Flatbush, or Kensington, call (866) 977- WALK. It is staffed by locals - Ditmas/Flatbush volunteers - a good chance you've seen the person in the neighborhood already!

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-25134206131013676412009-10-23T09:59:00.003-04:002009-10-23T09:59:00.176-04:00

So Franklyn & Cypher Films have a new contest called "pick a flick". Audience members get to chose the next film they produce. According to Franklyn: You are not obligated to donate in order to vote. If you are in a position to...please donate to our next movie. The feature with the most votes will win the full donation amount. ALL donors will appear in the credits of the winning film. Polls will

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-62852648692557746662009-10-23T09:48:00.001-04:002009-10-23T09:48:00.513-04:00

You may wish to consider One World Symphony’s “Nightmare on Montague Street” on Friday, October 30, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. at St. Ann and the Holy Trinity on 157 Montague Street in Brooklyn Heights. While not performing in the neighborhood, its of the neighborhood. Their Managing Director and our neighbor Adrienne Metzinger emails: Brooklyn’s One World Symphony will celebrate Halloween by

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-50157028429473445642009-10-22T10:33:00.000-04:002009-10-22T10:33:00.170-04:00

Also in Time Out, a classic interview with the witty Amy Besa, of Purple Yam, now planning an opening early next month:You closed your Soho restaurant, Cendrillon, to open Purple Yam. Why the move?After 9/11 there was a lull, and then Soho went berserk. Renters got pushed out, and we had really awful people living around there—traders. They were nasty, arrogant and noisy. So is Ditmas Park your

Bennoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-6846949604858479292009-10-22T09:28:00.001-04:002009-10-22T09:28:00.205-04:00

Marc also emails that while they have discontinued the jazz jam sessions, we all should join them for some karaoke on Saturdays starting at 11PM (no cover, drink specials). As a reminder - you can watch the Yankees, Giants and Jets at the bar, brunch is served 11-4 on weekends, dinner 4-11pm except closed on Mondays, and the Pix Fixe is still $25 for three courses. VISIONS RESTAURANT AND BAR

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-52240483537313412712009-10-22T09:18:00.001-04:002009-10-22T09:18:00.085-04:00

It's been weeks since a major citywide publication raved about Ditmas Park's food scene, and we were getting a little nervous.But never fear! Time Out does a huge takeout on Ditmas Park this week, listing it as one of the city's "best food neighborhoods" and offering deserved tribute to a range of places, from places we obsess about on this blog -- Cafe Tibet, Sycamore, Mimi's -- to places that

Bennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-21250024404860499902009-10-22T09:03:00.002-04:002009-10-22T09:03:00.660-04:00

This grownup take on Fairy Tales features 4 artists from our neighborhood: Karen Zuegner Leela Corman Amy Saidens Kris Waldherr

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-89870521112761678572009-10-21T10:46:00.001-04:002009-10-21T10:46:00.172-04:00

Flatbush Tompkins Congregational Church is celebrating its 110th anniversary this weekend. There will be a celebratory service @ 10:45AM on Sunday 10/25. The address is 424 East 19th St @ the corner of Dorchester Rd.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-47451399196918921232009-10-21T10:00:00.002-04:002009-10-21T10:00:02.693-04:00

So it may be a bit obvious that we really like them, AND they are from the neighborhood, but in addition to playing tonight at Vox Pop, on Thursday night the Loom will be playing at Sycamore with Rescue Bird:9 pm - Rescue Bird10 pm - The Loom(And if you can't make these, try seeing them on Saturday night at Union Hall as part of a bill that also includes Mia Riddle, Pete and J, Pacific Theater,

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-7465301040432547732009-10-21T09:12:00.001-04:002009-10-21T09:12:00.528-04:00

  Caribbean jazz vocalist Betty Blue will be performing at Chrystal Manor Lounge 1460 Flatbush Avenue (between Glenwood and Foster) from Oct. 24 to Nov 14.  www.bettybluejazz.com

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-7860414078538097592009-10-21T09:01:00.001-04:002009-10-21T09:01:00.781-04:00

8 pm - Animal Hands (http://www.myspace.com/animalhands) 9 pm - Frontier Ruckus (http://www.myspace.com/frontierruckus) 10 pm - The Loom (http://www.myspace.com/theloommusic) 11 pm - The Static Jacks (http://www.myspace.com/thestaticjacks) Need we say more?  

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-34906680149351710792009-10-20T10:50:00.001-04:002009-10-20T10:50:00.303-04:00

By Adam Taye

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-83883797657661481012009-10-20T10:44:00.003-04:002009-10-20T10:44:00.205-04:00

Powerhouse Projects have released a most fascinating interview with neighborhood artist, Kathryne Hall. This is how they introduce her work: Her installations are mischievous, thoroughly engaging and have already garnered press recognition that would make any gallerist proud. Hall amply demonstrates that when talent is married to a little entrepreneurial chutzpah the work is made, gets an

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-75579201778689874792009-10-20T10:00:00.000-04:002009-10-20T10:00:03.943-04:00

Neighbor Dieter Klipstein shares the short video his sketch comedy group, Free Love Forum, produced outside on Westminster Road about five houses up from Cortelyou. They've also entered it in the Health Reform Video Challenge run by Obama's website. A very different take from the one we posted yesterday.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-5197851751105448562009-10-20T09:03:00.001-04:002009-10-20T09:03:00.230-04:00

Publisher's Weekly gave Living Room, written by our neighbor Rachel Sherman and released today, a starred review: Sherman’s riveting debut novel (after the collection The First Hurt) examines the dreams and disappointments of teenager Abby; her mother, Livia; and Abby’s grandmother, twice-widowed Headie. Each of the women harbors a secret none of the others suspect: Abby drowns her crippling

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-22270978571679833932009-10-19T11:38:00.002-04:002009-10-19T21:58:20.204-04:00

Neighbor Franklyn Strachan of CYPHER Films made this for the President health care program. It features local resident, Angela Welch Stucker. Thought we'd share with you all.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-41733501460819164192009-10-19T11:15:00.000-04:002009-10-19T11:15:48.869-04:00

From Sustainable Flatbush: Saturday, October 24, 2009—Rain or Shine Based on the success of the annual walking tour events in celebration of Arbor Day and spring in bloom, Sustainable Flatbush is now introducing the inaugural Fall Street Tree Walking Tour. The tour guides will be Tracey Hohman, professional gardener, and Chris Kreussling, aka Flatbush Gardener, both neighborhood residents. [..]

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-3866797532605608792009-10-19T10:53:00.000-04:002009-10-19T10:53:05.760-04:00

Was rained out yesterday and has been moved to next Sunday, October 25. Details as before.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-7500429199541912522009-10-18T14:11:00.000-04:002009-10-18T14:11:41.785-04:00

DITMAS PARK ROCK BAND DECOSTER PERFORMING AT SOLO BAR OCTOBER 31 You can check out their myspace page here.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-74321354130309204212009-10-16T12:19:00.000-04:002009-10-16T12:19:06.977-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-47091311543530015192009-10-16T11:46:00.001-04:002009-10-16T12:03:56.384-04:00

The numbers for our local police precinct (70PC)  are down substantially, which is good news for all. Our thanks to everyone at the precinct for their hard work, and also for being very responsive to concerns raised by the community (and this blog). Via the 7-0 blog: By Helen Klein Courier-Life In terms of crime reduction, the 70th Precinct is “doing three times better than last year.” That was

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-43775615496522928792009-10-16T11:33:00.000-04:002009-10-16T11:33:33.133-04:00

Brokelyn has a long list of Halloween costume swaps in Brooklyn, including the one at Midwood Martial Arts on H. They are all here.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-31773561525568324962009-10-16T11:02:00.000-04:002009-10-16T11:02:47.782-04:00

The Post and the News have both within the month had articles about how Flatbush Gardens (formerly Vanderveer Estates, the huge complex over on the other side of Flatbush) is allegedly trying to force long term residents out by delaying maintenance and charging for air-conditioner units, and that people are afraid of being evicted. The claim is - they only renovate after folks move out. Just

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-80590122754154270112009-10-16T09:41:00.000-04:002009-10-16T09:41:49.016-04:00

The Times runs through the heart of Brooklyn, starting in Ditmas Park. Read more here.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-91456668489857841842009-10-16T08:24:00.000-04:002009-10-16T08:24:51.623-04:00

This is not in our neighborhood, but it is of interest to a large group of our neighbors. Maybe we should have something like this as well?

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-17295578431182616102009-10-15T11:41:00.000-04:002009-10-15T11:42:03.500-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-67196593172054557942009-10-15T10:30:00.000-04:002009-10-15T10:30:59.969-04:00

Fool's Gold, the band that L.A. Times describes as "one of the most promising new acts currently emerging from this city" will be playing at Sycamore on Sunday, 10/18. Doors open at 9pm.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-48273668107350796192009-10-13T21:33:00.000-04:002009-10-13T21:33:20.424-04:00

We've added a list of links to Brooklyn schools that might be of interest to parents in the neighborhood on the left, by no means a complete list. Please let us know if you have a school you'd like to add, or know of a parent writing about what its like to be a parent at a school (like the Free School Apparent) and we'll add. Also - please spread the word on open houses as you come across - and

Lienanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-61839081244883356192009-10-13T20:29:00.000-04:002009-10-13T20:29:25.538-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-40679202010435767892009-10-13T13:31:00.000-04:002009-10-13T13:31:46.790-04:00

From Billy the barman: Hey Neighboors, Complimentary German buffet and Octoberfest beer and giveaways at the 773 Lounge on Coney Island Ave. on Saturday from 3 - 7P.M. Plenty of authentic bratwurst and sauerbraten will accompany Brooklyn Octoberfest beer and good ol' american football and baseball. Also anyone participating in the Breast Cancer Walk on Sunday, we will be having a special happy

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-57542232334761718582009-10-13T13:28:00.000-04:002009-10-13T13:28:27.346-04:00

Sunday, October 18, 2009 – 1 to 3 pm Closing Reception for BROOKLYN: THROUGH A CHILD’S EYES art and drawings by children ages 4 – 7 Join us in celebrating the close of this very special exhibition! We’ll be having a kids' dance party. Free admission and refreshments. More about this exhibit: For a period of seven hours on June 14, 2009, the gallery was taken over by twenty-one children, ages

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-45609467917744174422009-10-13T13:12:00.001-04:002009-10-13T13:24:35.083-04:00

Just got their press release:  Super Soccer Stars - currently the New York area's most popular soccer development program for early childhood, elementary, and middle school children with over 5,000 kids enrolled in its program - is coming to Ditmas Park ! Since its inception in fall 2000, Super Soccer Stars has been providing outstanding soccer development instruction to children in over 150

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-19541267776972638582009-10-13T09:27:00.000-04:002009-10-13T09:27:23.061-04:00

New York Post reports:  It could be dubbed the Case of the Traveling Trash Pails. Residents of Ditmas Park West who have been hit by a crew of garbage pail thieves brought their problem to the most recent meeting of the 70th Precinct Community Council, which was held at Belsky House, 140 Lawrence Avenue. Speaking to Deputy Inspector Ralph Monteforte, the precinct’s commanding officer, one woman,

Lienanoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-75841418605764202452009-10-13T09:23:00.000-04:002009-10-13T09:23:03.574-04:00

David Chiu of the Brooklyn Paper has this: If you ever wanted a pop singer to write and record and album all for you, it’ll only cost you $5,000. That’s just one fundraising scheme’s being offered by Greta Gertler, an Australian singer-songwriter who lives in Ditmas Park. Gertler is currently working on her latest album, “The Universal Thump,” an orchestral pop record, but recording doesn’t

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-52571144608558533722009-10-12T20:58:00.001-04:002009-10-13T09:18:54.891-04:00

The Daily News has quite a story on the City settling with accused drug dealers:Members of a brazen Brooklyn crack gang raked in more than $500,000 in taxpayer money by repeatedly suing the city for civil rights violations, records show.Accused drug dealers from the East 21st St. Crew and associates sued the city more than 20 times - and the city settled every time, even though many of the same

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-39701734431177415032009-10-12T20:39:00.002-04:002009-10-12T20:39:39.359-04:00

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-83058715786845973812009-10-12T20:35:00.000-04:002009-10-12T20:35:29.708-04:00

PICK UP A SHOVEL AND MAKE KENSINGTON GREENER (AND YELLOWER)! WATCH CHURCH AVENUE BLOOM! Sunday, October 18th, is Daffodil Day in Kensington. Join your neighbors as we plant daffodil bulbs on Church Avenue and its side streets. In the spring, watch the flowers that we planted bloom! From 9:00 a.m. to noon, volunteers will loosen soil in tree pits plant daffodil bulbs go to Connie's Cafe for

Lienanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-76604482212101524032009-10-09T17:00:00.001-04:002009-10-09T17:01:47.329-04:00

The Daily News reports on the fight to save the Campus Road Community Garden:AT BROOKLYN COLLEGE, folk singer Joni Mitchell's song lyrics will soon be true: They paved paradise and put up a parking lot.The Campus Road Community Garden at Brooklyn College will be uprooted this winter to make room for a new parking lot, and Flatbush residents aren't happy about it."The school already has a parking

Bennoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-15592636146310400652009-10-09T14:30:00.001-04:002009-10-09T14:38:17.853-04:00

For parents of elementary school age kids - now is the time to sign up for the ERBs and the G&T test (if you so wish), visit the schools and fill out application forms. The private school application process is in full force right now, with schools scheduling interviews already.The public school process is much more relaxed, at least for now, but if you'd like to have your child tested for the

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-66076605541421562632009-10-09T13:29:00.001-04:002009-10-09T13:44:39.072-04:00

Graham and Chelsi Meyerson (who brought us the original Picket Fence) just cannot help feeding the local folks. So they are making things easier for the rest of us by starting a dinner delivery service.  Here is what Graham emails, and the full menus and other details are on their website Taste Bud Events: WHAT'S FOR DINNER! is a dinner delivery service bringing you healthy, delicious dinners!

Lienanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-26442171361947287362009-10-09T10:03:00.000-04:002009-10-09T10:03:00.683-04:00

Sycamore Oktoberfest Weekend #2:Saturday, October 10th from 2-8pmAtwater Blocktoberfest being poured all day, BBQ,Schnitzel, and Live music!

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-76864204458150357772009-10-09T08:32:00.001-04:002009-10-09T08:32:00.067-04:00

For those looking for a school for your kids where there are no grades or tests. Also check out neighbor Bruce Zeines' blog about being a parent at a Free School - The Free School Apparent http://bzeines.wordpress.com/.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-16312103684496491862009-10-08T20:25:00.003-04:002009-10-08T20:29:51.796-04:00

A reader emails the photos above, and via Notify NYC we learn that:10/8/09 at 6:45 PM. Emergency personnel are on the scene of a retaining wall collapse on the Prospect Expressway in the vicinity of Church Ave. in Brooklyn. Northbound Prospect Expressway is closed, heavy delays southbound.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-24906212883155820202009-10-08T15:13:00.002-04:002009-10-08T15:32:13.368-04:00

Who knew that Cinnamon had all these amazing benefits? But then again - Karen is most knowledgeable on all things herbs and spices. Just stop by her store, Sacred Vibes Herbal Apothecary on Argyle just off Cortelyou and find out yourself. Her tea mixes are simply amazing.Karen also has workshops at the space, and the next one is Herbs for Women - Sunday, October 25th - 1:00 p.m. (Email Karen at

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-33453410479277151692009-10-08T13:25:00.002-04:002009-10-08T13:44:21.971-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-68750130986645452132009-10-07T15:00:00.002-04:002009-10-07T15:05:14.528-04:00

by Adam Taye

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-74236362084997927862009-10-07T14:58:00.003-04:002009-10-07T15:25:54.980-04:00

Ben [Benjamin Heemskerk] and the freshly framed Castello Plan -- an early map of New York made by one Jacques Cortelyou -- with Castello Plan, his new wine bar, in the background.The spot will feel decidedly old world, he promises.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-40519081211592113522009-10-07T13:40:00.000-04:002009-10-07T13:41:01.969-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-33268336053551531812009-10-06T09:00:00.000-04:002009-10-06T09:00:00.408-04:00

Billy the barman emails: Hey Neighboors,Come on down to the 773 Lounge on Coney Island ave. for great beer and food specials for the baseball playoffs. Also "Fish Fry Fridays" begin October Ninth.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-80233603987737037662009-10-06T08:55:00.001-04:002009-10-06T08:55:58.337-04:00

We found this brand new baby shoe on the corner of Cortelyou and Westminster yesterday around 5pm. It's in the Brooklyn Hearth real estate window on the same block. Hope it finds it's owner.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-51342120111965601002009-10-05T15:50:00.000-04:002009-10-05T20:23:54.139-04:00

by Adam Taye Gentrification 11`2009re-typed newsprint4" x 6"

Lienanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-7220486315616127382009-10-05T15:42:00.001-04:002009-10-05T15:42:38.037-04:00

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-7195497350047441932009-10-05T10:30:00.005-04:002009-10-05T10:49:01.494-04:00

Created with flickr slideshow.Yesterday morning at the new playground behind Ditmas IS on Cortelyou (between E6 and E7th I think). There are two basketball hoops, a still nice artificial turf to play on, and a playset for kids ages 5-12. There is also a good number of benches, flower garden, nice shade, a drinking water fountain, and recycling bins. A beautiful playground.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-48922050928147932432009-10-05T09:49:00.002-04:002009-10-05T09:55:27.589-04:00

Can you ride a bike?Want to make the neighborhood safer?Be a bike escort for SafeWalk!Ditmas SafeWalk Volunteer Orientation Wednesday, October 77 pmSafe Walk offers anyone walking to their destination a free, safe walking buddy. This program is for ANYONE who doesn’t wish to walk alone. We believe that Safe Walk is an empowering way to increase street safety and operates seasonally (generally

Lienanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-23919329925225302012009-10-05T09:26:00.003-04:002009-10-05T09:34:09.439-04:00

Christina emails:I'm new to the neighborhood as a resident but have been teaching at Third Root for the last year.I see from Amy and Romy's post that I'm not the only Filipino Ditmas Parker that has been worried about her homeland. It's been awful. I've been getting updates all week from my family about the mass devastation, the hundreds that have died, and the hundreds of thousands that have

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-88897417532030803492009-10-05T08:59:00.002-04:002009-10-05T09:23:26.085-04:00

To follow up on the post that the Campus Road Community Garden is to be paved over, we wanted to let you know that there is an open Facebook Group ("Campus Road Community Garden") and an online petition addressed to the President of Brooklyn College to try to save the garden. To go to the petition please click on the link: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/campusrdgarden/.The text of the

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-45952995979342139862009-10-02T09:16:00.003-04:002009-10-02T09:25:22.308-04:00

Once you have shredded your papers and swapped your clothes on Cortelyou, you may want to head over to Ozzies on 5th in Park Slope around 12-noon to meet some composting advocates from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The aim is to establish a community-led leaf composting project! Sustainable Flatbush: Due to budget cuts, in 2008 New York City discontinued both its autumn leaf-collecting project and

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-82280142209383130232009-10-02T08:45:00.005-04:002009-10-02T09:06:13.287-04:00

Tomorrow, Saturday, October 3:9am-2pm - Shredizlla comes to Ditmas Park.The industrial shredding machine will be stationed on Cortelyou between Argyle and Rugby, and will be there between 9am-2pm to shred your unwanted papers. It has been organized by the Flatbush Development Corporation and they are asking for $10 to shred a file box of paper (or two standard shopping bags of paper), half of

Lienanoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-89309773341527396802009-10-01T20:58:00.001-04:002009-10-01T20:59:57.277-04:00

We still can't wait.Amy and Romy write:Yes, we have been delayed again due to permits which take a loooonnngg time to process.But our problems in opening up the restaurant are nothing compared to the suffering that is going on in our home country, the Philippines. We will eventually open, perhaps late in the month, but many people in Manila have lost homes, family and friends. Just a little

Bennoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-69624263196426889762009-09-30T21:23:00.003-04:002009-10-01T07:44:01.070-04:00

Ditmas Workspace -- the shared, local office space that Liena founded last year -- is one year old, and celebrating with a party this Friday evening.The details:What: Ditmas Workspace AnniversaryWhere: Ditmas Workspace, 535 East 17th Street, at Ditmas AvenueWhen: Friday, October 2, 5:30 to 8 p.m.If you're interested in working there, or just want to check it out, please come by. Blog readers

Bennoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-75163553698995907142009-09-29T10:43:00.004-04:002009-09-29T10:50:33.230-04:00

Neighbor Ann Simkins alerts us that the Campus Road Community Garden at Brooklyn College, which lies at the foot of the athletic field, is going to be bulldozed to make room for a small parking lot.As you can imagine we are all saddened by this. Each member joined for their own reasons, but the bottom line is, we all come together as a community and we cherish the friendships we have made with

Lienanoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-79986528694268699132009-09-29T10:25:00.000-04:002009-09-29T10:26:29.781-04:00

This may be of interest to some neighborhood business and property owners:NYC Penalty Relief Program - a three-month penalty forgiveness period for businesses and individuals with outstanding violations returnable to the Environmental Control Board was signed into law by Mayor Bloomberg in July.Known as Local Law 47, this program will run from September 21, 2009, through December 21, 2009.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-46708979903094724852009-09-28T11:26:00.001-04:002009-10-05T10:00:14.526-04:00

Ditmas Park neighbors are looking for neighbors who have a cat(s) to trade cat-sitting services while each other are out of town. If your cats are like ours they get lonely if you're out of town and want someone great to watch them, someone who will play with them, spend time with them, prepare their food and keep their water and litter nice and clean! We're interested too in the possibility of

Lienanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3790354751952562733.post-72538021360056123062009-09-28T09:04:00.000-04:002009-09-28T09:04:00.151-04:00

Also, the Community meeting with 70th Precinct is on Wednesday, September 30th.

Lienanoreply@blogger.com