Jan. 1, 2012

Jan 1-15, 2012

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The Red Hook Star-Revue SOUTH BROOKLYN’S COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

1970’s model & movement expert Martin Snaric uses silk to craft the natural movement of flowers

By Elizabeth Graham

F

or years, the fashion industry was his medium. Designers coveted his lithe walk down the runway, some of the world’s most well-known fashion photographers sought to capture his classic features and frame in provocative poses, and powerful retailers used him in catalogs and ad campaigns.

Martin Snaric is a movement expert – his awareness of the power of one’s walk, posture and gestures helped launch his iconic fashion career. Years later, it’s the natural movement of flowers that inspires Snaric, who creates silk arrangements out of his Carroll Street apartment.

Inside his home, potted flowers cover tables, hang from windows and sit on shelves. There are orchids, white tulips, mistletoe, amaryllis, hydrangeas, dancing orchids, cymbidiums, vandas, peonies and ladyslippers. More bouquets fill a back room, where red, white, orange, purple and pink blooms make the space feel like a springtime garden. Most are anchored in clear resin in glass pots, but some are suspended from faux tree bark as they are in the wild.

Flowers are hope … these flowers are movement, Snaric says of the cheerful and very realistic-looking arrangements that are scattered throughout the rooms.

Following his move to Brooklyn in October, word of Snaric’s faux pieces spread quickly. His silk flowers add color to a number of local homes, and demand is so high that he is planning on offering private classes. Part of the appeal is the durability of the bouquets, which can be washed, kept outside and won’t fade.

Snaric’s backyard also serves as a studio, where he can spread out to create the one of-a-kind pieces. I look at the real (flower) and I do my best to honor it by copying it so you can’t tell the difference, he said. I really do my research. The placement is what I’ve been getting most recognized for.

But Snaric first made a name for himself as one of the few established male models of the 1970s and 80s.

A chance encounter in 1973 with Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali, who spotted him on the streets of Manhattan and asked him to pose for some sketches, quickly led to more jobs, landing him on the runway for many of the era’s top designers. He became even more recognizable after a mannequin in his likeness was used for years in display windows of retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman, Saks and Macy’s.

Snaric’s success as a model led to an appearance on Saturday Night Live and roles in several movies, including She Devils with Meryl Streep and The Last Remake of Beau Geste with Ann-Margaret. He was married to supermodel Pat Cleveland and worked with nearly every major designer in the 1970s, in(continued on page 3)

Also In This Issue:

Columbia Street Collapse - page 7

Star Theater Jam hits the road - page 12

A Moving Experience with Matt Graber - page 5

Growing Up Red Hook

Nibbling at life silent and strong

by Danette Vigilante

I

’ve never made a New Year’s resolution in my life. I’m more of an everyday resolution type girl. In my book, it’s just too much responsibility for one day to handle. You know how it’s going to be: it’ll start out strong, sag a bit in the middle then completely fizzle out sometime in the following two months as though it never even existed. That’s no way to treat any life changing decision, don’t you agree? Come, let’s nibble at life together.

First, it (your resolution) needs to be admired from a far. Flirt with it, think about it, imagine what it would be like if it was yours. Then, go all out. Learn everything you can about the thing you want. See yourself enjoying it, benefitting from it.

Continuing education, weight loss, volunteer work, quit smoking, singing lessons, traveling, etc., your world is exactly that: yours. See yourself on that stage, physically fit, breathing better. Whatever it is, see it. Let yourself feel it. Actually obtaining this thing just takes focus and determination.

I don’t want you to think it’ll always be smooth sailing. Will you stumble and fall a few times? Absolutely, but that doesn’t mean your eyes have to come completely off your destination. Will rejection pop out just when you’re feeling good about yourself? It surely will, but I’ll tell you what I do with rejection. I Acknowledge it (there’s a chance there is something to learn from it), smile and continue on my path. It’s a temporary road block, that’s it. There will always be another path and if you don’t see one, make your own.

It would not be right of me to neglect sharing with you what I think is the hardest obstacle in obtaining what you want and that is, self-doubt. Just typing those words gives me palpitations. Self-doubt is tough; it shakes you from the inside out like nothing else can. When it shows up, you’ll need to do a couple of things. First, take notice of the things you have accomplished. Keep in mind they do not have to be big things, little things build to big things, so show them some love.

Most importantly, keep moving toward your goal. As Will Smith once said, The mastery of self-doubt is the key to success. If you’re not moving, I guarantee mastering anything will prove to be impossible.

Now, let’s get back to your flirting. It might happen over a couple of days or even months. The timeline is yours and yours alone. You don’t even need to tell anyone about it. While everyone giddily announces to the world their New Year’s resolutions, you can hold yours quietly to yourself like a treasure you’re not yet ready to share with the world.

Sometimes the people in your life (could even be loving family members) think they’re helping by saying things like, That’ll be too hard. Maybe you should just forget about that. Or, come up with something they think would be better for you.

It’s not that these people are trying to bring you down or hurt you in any way, they’re trying to save you from what they see as imminent failure, something they see as out of your reach.

When you feel you’re comfortable enough with the idea of having whatever your resolution is, go for it. But keep in mind you’ll still need to continue courting it.

After all, this is something special, something that is going to change your life, hopefully, for the better.

Now get to flirting. I’m rooting for you.

Danette Vigilante is a children’s author living in New York City with one husband, two daughters, Mr. Noodle, her love hog Yorkshire terrier and Daisy, a cat with a seriously bad attitude. Her newest book, The Trouble with Half a Moon, is in local bookstores and available for purchase online at Amazon and other booksellers.

Welcome to YOUR community newspaper!

The Red Hook Star-Revue The News of South Brooklyn Volume 3 No. 1, January 1-15, 2012

Founded in 2010 by Frank Galeano and George Fiala

Reporters.................................... Elizabeth Graham, Matt Graber, Curtis Skinner Photographers .............................................. Thomas Rupolo, Elizabeth Graham Cartoons ....................................................... Vince Musacchia, Harold Shapiro Historian.....................................................................................John Burkard Contributors .....................Mary Anne Massaro, Danette Vigilante, Robert Geelan .......................Reg Flowers, Michael Racioppo, Mary Ann Pietanza, Kiki Valentine Calendar Guy ................................................................................... Eric Ruff Resident Foodie ............................................................................ Erik Penney General Manager................................................................... Kimberly G. Price Managing Editor .......................................................................... George Fiala The Red Hook Star-Revue is published twice a month by Red Hook Publishing

We need letters to the editor as well as press advisories which can be mailed to:

Red Hook Star-Revue, 101 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231

718 624-5568 - news tip line 917-652-9128 or emailed to editor@redhookstar.com

TALK TO US online- We are on Facebook our website:

Page 2 Red Hook Star-Revue

www.redhookstar.com January 1 - 15, 2012

From modeling clothes to modeling flowers using natural movements (continued from cover)

cluding Halston, Valentino and Ralph Lauren.

At the beginning of his career, the tall, dark-haired Manhattan native suddenly began spending time in some of the most luxurious homes in the world. Inside the mansions, he took note of the striking floral arrangements many legendary designers placed in their living spaces.

They always had a signature orchid in their house with a candle burning, he said.

When I went to all these big palaces and you saw how important the flowers were …They were part of a person’s aesthetic. Flowers were a very important part of living.

Years later, those lessons in aesthetic inspired a project – he began to create faux floral arrangements to place in hospitalized friends’ rooms who were suffering from AIDS and cancer. The patients couldn’t have real flowers in their rooms because of the allergens that plants carry, so Snaric’s solution was to use silk flowers to bring color and movement into their bleak rooms.

The arrangements started attracting attention and he began receiving commissions from all over the world for the silk plants. One orchid Snaric placed in a patient’s hospital room at Cornell prompted Henry Kissinger’s wife to request that he create more than 200 arrangements for the palace at Versailles, while more of his pieces have found homes in Paris, London, Milan, Chicago, Italy, Istanbul, Los Angeles, Palm Beach and the Hamptons.

For more information about Martin Snaric and his life and flowers he maintains a website at martinnewyork.com

“Years later, those lessons in aesthetic inspired a project – he began to create faux floral arrangements to place in hospitalized friends’ rooms who were suffering from AIDS and cancer. The patients couldn’t have real flowers in their rooms because of the allergens that plants carry, so Snaric’s solution was to use silk flowers to bring color and movement into their bleak rooms.”

Pop Star of the Runway The following is excerpted from the May/June edition of Models World magazine which featured a three page article on Martin Snaric...

T

he white sheet draped over his shoulders looked like a magician’s cape.

Maybe it was. Maybe that’s what the expression on his face said to the audience: This is a bit of magic I’m showing you. His body, firm and muscular, was clad in a black leotard-- a cross between Doug Henning and the Count of Monte Cristo.

But Martin Snaric doesn’t dress up in a sheet to play a white-caped Count. This is work. Walking in fron of 100 or so seminar students, Snaric, the leading authority on runway movement and motion, uses the sheet as a tool This simplest of garments is used to show how a model must make clothes flow, move, perform.

Such is the magic of Snaric, as he teaches eager models the importance of movement.

Snaric didn’t start out to become a professional model. In 1976 I was working my way through the New School, where I was studying English, by posing for design students at the Fashion Institute. I learned a tremendous amount about movement, muscle flexing, and posture doing that. I actually use the techniques I developed then in my seminars now.

When discovered by Salvador Dali, Snaric was walking along concentrating on isometric exercises for upper-body firmness. To this day, he swears that if he hadn’t been walking up Fifth Avenue working on muscle tone he never would have walked on a fashion runway.

But he was and he did, and his debut for Halston soon led to work with Valentino, Armani, St. Laurent. He also did a stint modeling for Maning Obregon, the famed illustrator.

But it wasn’t until the world famous display-0mannequin artist Adel Rootstein created an exact image of the young star that his career soared. Department stores around the world gobbled up Martin Mannequins to the tune of $11 million. His sculpted likeness, even today, can be seen in the windows of Saks, Bergdorf, Lord and Taylor, and Barney’s.

As his professional life began to come together, so did his personal life. He married Patty Cleveland, the famous runway and print model. Then the late Andy Warhol dubbed him the ‘pop star of the runway’ and Snaric was suddenly a man in demand.

January 1-15, 2012

Red Hook Star-Revue Page 3

News From the Street written and collected by the Star-Revue writing staff

Police Blotter: Drug and shaving theft

A 49-year old male was observed taking razors and exiting the Rite Aid on December 21st at 4pm. He was arrested and found with $541.46 worth of merchandise, including 18 razors and several cartridges. Then on Friday, December 30th at 5:55pm, a 44-year old male was caught in the same Rite Aid in position of stolen over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and a hypodermic needle.

son Street and into a red 4-door Sedan.

Bad New Years Resolution

Housing police arrested a 35-year old male on New Year’s morning after his wife called to report a fight that broke out in their apartment at 815 Hicks Street. The call came in at 1:15am and the husband was charged with an assault misdemeanor, attempt to cause physical injury.

Community Grants awarded

The Brooklyn Community Foundation, originally started by the late IndepenA robbery was reported at 9:15am on dence Savings Bank as a fund dedicatThursday, December 22nd, at 426 Co- ed to supporting Brooklyn non-profit lumbia Street. The complainant states foundations back in 1998, last month that the perpetrator - her ex-boyfriend - announced it’s final round of giving for pushed her into a table causing injury to 2011, gifts totalling $668,000. the back of her head, before taking her Included in these grants were some worwallet and placing his hands around her thy Red Hook instutions. Cora Dance neck. The perpetrator was later identi- was awarded $7500, The Kentler Interfied and arrested outside of 81 Dwight national Drawing Center on Van Brunt Street. He was charged with assault, Street was also given $7500. Added strangulation, harassment and robbery. Value, the organization that maintains the community farm across from Ikea, Where was the attendant?

A 29-year old male was accosted by among other food-related endeavors, rethree unknown perpetrators outside a ceived $35,000 to support a “green” job gas station at the corner of Court and training program.

Nelson Streets on Friday, December In total BCF awarded $4.5 million last 30th at 11:30 pm. The perpetrators ap- year. To apply for a grant see their webproached from behind and stuck a blunt site at brooklyncommunityfoundation. object to the complainant’s back, saying org. The one requirement is that you’re “Don’t move. Don’t make any noise.” from the neighborhood of Brooklyn, as They made off with $500 cash, car keys, well as of course being a non-profit orhouse keys, driver’s license and four ganization. credit cards before fleeing toward Nel-

Choking robbery

Kentler International Drawing Space celebrates 2011

Kentler presented the work of 196 artists including two solo shows: Arezoo Moseni and Beverly Ress, followed by their annual May Benefit with works on paper by 132 artists. Honorees: Jonathan Ames and Dean Haspiel with Guest Curator Roberta Waddell who selected 49 drawings by 28 artists in MARKED DIFFERENCES. KENTLER @21 celebrated the twenty-first year of the Kentler Flatfiles. Curators: Florence Neal and Sallie Mize. Special events included: Nene Humphrey’s premier of CIRCLING THE CENTER, ARTplusCAKE birthday event hosted by BAKED In this year of general belt-tightening, the special synergy of Kentler’s exhibitions with its community outreach program was recognized by U.S. Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez via a generous grant to the K.I.D.S. Art Education program. Under the leadership of Mollie McQuarrie the K.I.D.S. program introduced thousands of Brooklyn school children and at-risk youth to the exhibitions at Kentler with engagement, critical dialogue and art making experiences through our in local school programs; partnerships with three local organizations providing after-school programs; and “Drawing Together” weekend family workshops. The Brooklyn Community Foundation is a supporter of our K.I.D.S. Art Ed program next year, with a $7500 “Drawing Together” matching grant

Community Calendar: The Red Hook Civic Association, an

eccentric neighborhood group, meets the last Wednesday of each month, which makes the next meeting January 25th at 7 pm in the auditorium of PS 15, 71 Sullivan Street between Richards and Van Brunt. Led by John McGettrick, there is always an agenda plus a chance for residents to sound off on what’s on their mind concerning the neighborhood. Representatives from local politicians are usually scattered throughout the audience.

The Brooklyn Bridge Rotary Club is a newly chartered chapter of this venerable national organization. Meetings take place every Thursday at 12:15 in the back of the Archives Restaurant at the Brooklyn Marriot Hotel, 333 Adams Street. For more information you may call Vivian Hardison at 917-804-0797. The Rotary Club motto is Service Above Self.

CB 6 Meetings: Monday, Jan. 9th, Public Safety/Permits/Licensing committee meets at 6:30 pm at the 78th Precinct, 6th Ave bet. Bergen & Dean,; Wed Jan 11th, 6:30, General Board Meeting, Prospect Park Residence, 1 PPW; Wed. Jan 18 Parks / Recreation / Cultural Affairs Committee Meeting, Cobble Hill Community Meeting Room, 250 Baltic Street bet. Court and Clinton Sts. 76th Precinct Community Council: these meetings are public and held the 1st Tuesday of each month, meaning the next one is Tuesday, January 3rd. Go to the basement of the 76th Precinct at 7 pm. The precinct is on Union Street close to Henry between Henry and Hicks.

Occupy Red Hook meets every Wednesday at 7 pm at the Red Hook Initiative, 797 Hicks Street at W. 9th. for more information call Reg Flowers (646) 403-1004 or (718) 395-3218.

The Star-Revue is happy to publicize your neighborhood meeting free of charge - send info to editor@redhookstar.com

We are across from Coffey Park (718) 923-9880

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January 1-15, 2012

How I Got Myself Blacklisted from the Best Truck Rental Company in NYC

by Matt Graber

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e were almost finished loading the truck, which I had double-parked within inches of the cars lined up the north side of the block. I knelt over an IKEA bed frame, turning an Allen key and holding the nut with a pair of pliers while Chino hung out downstairs. It was not 10 o’clock yet and my clothes had already reached their capacity to store sweat, and I watched the drops fall steadily from my nose and chin onto the floor where it combined with cat hair and dust. The window overlooking 10th Street was open, so when the firetruck started to bellow, the sound filled the bedroom and I could hear Chino calling me from the hallway two flights down.

Matt! Gotta move!

I threw the tools on the floor and rushed down the stairs to move the truck into a fire hydrant 40 feet up the block. For those less familiar with cube trucks, picture this -- behind the back tire there is a good five to seven feet of truck, plus a steel lift gate. When the front of the truck turns in one direction, the back swings in the opposite direction like a whale’s tail. Now picture a brown Volvo with a No Farms, No Food bumper sticker, parked just before the open hydrant space. The crash sounded like thunder, punctuated as it was by the echo chamber of the 16-foot tin cube.

The firefighters passed quietly and I made a point not to look up to see the expressions on their faces.

Chino and I stood looking at the damage. The right side of the bumper hung almost to the pavement and on the right front panel, a small dent. The wreckage looked minimal compared to what it sounded like from inside the truck. I looked up and down the block and saw that there were no witnesses.

Literally, not a single person visible on a sunny block in Park Slope. That was odd. I asked Chino what he thought it would cost to fix. $100. Maybe $150, he said. It seemed like a low-ball estimate but I wanted to believe him. I made him repeat it several times, while standing at several angles over the Volvo.

With three jobs to go for the day - and we were only halfway done with the first one - we simply did not have time to wait for the cops to come and file a report. Another piece of relevant information: my license was suspended. So I did what made sense to me at the time.

I wrote my number on a piece of paper

January 1-15, 2012

sponded minutes later with a suspiciously friendly text asking for my name and address, to which I did not respond. By the time I got home a feeling of dread had begun to set in. All of this work I’m doing might be for nothing. I might have to hand these people $2,000.

“For a mover in New York City, the end of the month is like marathon that lasts three or four days, without the support of cheering fans reaching out with waxy cups of cold water.” and stuck it on the windshield.

For a mover in New York City, the end of the month is like marathon that lasts three or four days, without the support of cheering fans reaching out with waxy cups of cold water. It is a grind in which your whole existence is consumed by the need - or desire - to make as much money as possible. Your landlord needs his rent after all, and your liberal arts degree is not providing you with anything but a vague sense of accomplishment. So you commit yourself to 15-hour days of driving all over the city in a cube truck, endless staircases and uncooperative elevators. You come home, sometimes after midnight, drenched and mildly delirious, throw a fistful of twenties in a jar, hit the bed and wait for your mind to turn off, and then about five hours later your alarm sounds and you get up and do it all over again.

When I hit that Volvo in late June 2010, I was working for another moving company and subjecting myself regularly to these insane tests of physical and mental endurance. The accident occurred on Day 1. This had a lot to do with why I fled the scene. What a waste to get thrown in jail and miss out on the lucrative end-of-month grind.

I had picked the truck up the previous night from the Cutty (for the purposes of this story I have disguised the true company) location in Manhattan and parked it on Ferris Street near Valentino Park. One perk of living in Red Hook is that you can park commercial vehicles overnight and, most of the time, get away with it. That you can pick up trucks from Cutty late at night, any night of the week, is just one reason

for its popularity among people in my trade. They also throw in hundreds of free miles while other companies charge anywhere from $.40 to $1.99 per mile.

And if the truck comes back with a little more - let us say character - than it had when you took it out, they do not try to ruin your month over it.

Chino and I were in the Upper West Side finishing our third job, moving a young banker into his new bachelor pad, when my phone showed an unknown 718 number. The man on the other line was calm and polite, but I could hear a woman - presumably his wife - cursing in the background. He told me the damage was severe. Probably more than $2,000. His wife got on the line and demanded that I return to the scene immediately and file a police report. I had ruined their Fourth of July weekend in Martha’s Vineyard, she explained to me. Now they would have to rent a zip car! I told her that I would call back in ten minutes.

Chino swore they were trying to take advantage of me. I talked to the moving company owner - my boss you could say, although he was 21 and I was 26 - and he agreed and pointed out that the truck was insured for these types of things. I pointed out that we had not filed a police report, which I knew Cutty required. It’ll be covered, he said. You tried to be the good guy. Change your cell number and forget about it.

I had Chino text the owners of the Volvo from my phone while I got us to our final job in Williamsburg. It said that we could not make it back to Park Slope for the next few days but to get in touch when they had a receipt. They re-

Through all of Day 2 it was on my mind, but I did not hear anything from the Volvo owners or the cops or insurance companies or the owner of Cutty. It was as grueling a day as it should have been and when I got home just after midnight, I threw a chunk of money in the jar and opened up my laptop. An email from my dad showed up, entitled: Incident. I stared at the subject heading for a solid 30 seconds. The email read as follows: Hi, I haven’t heard from you about that email. Don’t make any statements and certainly don’t commit to anything unless all implications are fully understood. Lv Dad. I scrolled down to find that he had emailed me hours earlier; that the angry wife had tracked me on Facebook of all places; that she had written a full length letter detailing every aspect of the event. It started out like this: I realize it’s extremely unusual to contact a stranger this way, but after hours of trying (unsuccessfully) to reach your son, Matt, it seemed only useful to contact his father. It was the strangest thing I had ever read. The letter told a story about an irresponsible, deceitful punk who had pulled a hit and run and ruined the holiday weekend of a decent family. Everything in the letter was true, but written from a point of view that made me unrecognizable to myself.

Since we never filed a police report, we will never know how much the damage really cost. It must happen all the time.

A mechanic finds out that the person who hit his customer’s car didn’t report it, and says, Hey, you know we can claim as much damage as we want and split the profits. A few weeks into July, the owner of Cutty called me. I had just taken out one of his cargo vans to do a moving job for my own company. He said that I had cost him thousands of dollars and that I would have to find another company to rent trucks from.

It hurts to this day, even though now I spend more time running artwork and furniture in my own van, not having the option to go with Cutty when I need a truck for a long distance moving job.

Matt Graber, in addition to his writing duties for this newspaper, founded his own company Cool Hand Movers last year in Red Hook which keeps him both busy and skinny.

Matt in front of his very own van.

Red Hook Star-Revue Page 5

Occupy the Hook Starting this issue, Reg Flowers, founder of Red Hook’s own Falconworks, as well as initiator of the Occupy Red Hook meetings, begins a regular column talking about the movement and Red Hook in particular. We are happy to have him.

Another World Is Possible

T

here is underlying messages of the movement associated with Occupy Wall Street, one that may get lost in the struggle against the banks, corporations and mega-rich that make up the one percent. It’s a message that goes beyond laying blame Reg Flowers for the current economic mess we’re in. One that is larger and more universal even than shifting power out of the hands of the few and creating political equilibrium. That message is simple: another world is possible.

In the book, Tools for Conviviality, Ivan Illich describes a society where an individual is free to engage with others and with the world so far as that interaction doesn’t infringe on another person’s freedom. Such a world may be hard to imagine.

In a world where exploitation is the norm, one would have to be a martyr or a fool to believe it possible to exist without winners and losers—some reap the rewards on top while those at the bottom suffer. Being born into and raised under the influence of an industrial and capitalist society we have difficulty imagining a convivial one.

We label such a world “utopia,” settle back on our sofas and click the remote.

Occupy Red Hook has brought neighbors together to discuss the possibility of a human-scale and peaceful society. This work can be challenging, even infuriating. It is radical to consider that the way things are is not by default the way things are meant to be. Some might even deny that society is nothing more than the product of human beings shaping the world to suit their taste and for that reason it must be possible for human beings to change it.

Earl Hall speaks to the first graders before distribution of the presents.

Red Hook Rise gives Christmas toys to PS 15 first graders Ray and Earl Hall, founders of the Red Hook Rise youth organization which runs basketball programs for underprivileged youths of the Red Hook Houses, came to the brightly decorated P.S. 15 auditorium the week before Christmas to give out toys to eager first graders. Earl started the program by giving a talk to the children impressing upon them the importance of rising above their environment and working hard to make a success of themselves, much as the Halls have done. Brother Ray was busy documenting the day with his video camera.

Afterwards, the children lined up in orderly rows and were given the opportunity to pick out a toy that the Hall brothers had collected from the community.

What surprises are wrapped within?

Red Hook Rise also offers a literacy program and more information about them can be found on their website at redhookrise.org.

It takes courage to face the unknown. At times, it feels like leaping out into the dark, not knowing if there will be solid ground to land on. Questioning what we’ve been taught or what we believe can be terrifying. It is especially difficult when it requires giving up those habits, our comforts, and even what we feel we have earned.

Antonio Machado, the poet wrote, “We make the road by walking.” That sentiment is simple enough, but not so easy to adopt as a way of life. It is so much easier to do as we are told and reap the benefits, even when we know in our hearts they will never come.

In Red Hook, the journey has begun. People who have historically been divided, keeping to their side of Richards Street are coming together to engage in meaningful dialogue. There are old-timers who have been in Red Hook for over fifty years and some who have been in the neighborhood only a few months. All of us are in the room for one purpose: We are making the road. It is not all holding hands and chanting Kumbaya. The diversity we cherished can mean we don’t always speak the same language. It’s an incredibly messy process that can be quite frustrating and, at times, requires all the patience we can muster. Occasionally, often just when it seems the fire among us is going out, something is said, or the group comes together on a resolution and there is a spark—enough light to give us the vision and courage to take the next step into the unknown.

The next meeting of Occupy Red Hook will take place this Wednesday, January 4th at the offices of Red Hook Initiative, 797 Hicks Street at 7 pm. All are invited.

The P.S. 15 teachers helped the students pick out their gifts. (photos by George Fiala)

Fall Falconworks Show debuts three homegrown plays Off the Hook, produced by Falconworks Artist’s Group, gave three sixth graders a chance to write and star in their very own one act plays. The show ran Friday December 16 and 17th, 2011 at P.S. 15. These three unique students had a hand in creating a vision that presented youth concerns including teen violence, music and parental influence. Overseen by Reg Flowers, parents, students and teachers all took the stage to collaborate in the effort.

Nora Vidals, age 11, presented an artistic portrayal of how violence at home leads to violence outside the home. Her show, “His Story”, utilized stylized dramatic movement to capture the story. Reg Flowers directed Nora and her cast in a moving performance of the devastating effects of aggression.

Isaiah Harden, also age 11, played the lead in “Mysterious Musician”. His story encompassed a young versatile musician who played guitar, piano, tuba and others.

The musician struggles to find someone to appreciate his talents, finally landing a recording contract as the show concludes. Chris Hammett directed the show encompassing a creative and funny edge to the life of a starving artist.

Avanna Valentin, age 11, created an exaggerated perception of an overprotective mother in her play, “Momma Drama”. The story took turns between an over the top “momma” who wanted academic achievement for her daughter and an encouraging director who insisted Lucy play his lead. Director, Peter Ascolese, brought the play to many moments of hilarity.

The show was entertaining and moving. Residents from the community showed up to support the production which was warmly received -- Kimberly G. Price

Page 6 Red Hook Star-Revue

(top left) Isaiah Harden (writer) with Arthur Aulici in Mysterious Musician. (top right) Peter Ascolese (dir) with Josh Joya in “Momma Drama”; (bottom right) Avanna Valentin (writer), Jessica Pannettieri and Joshua Joya in “Momma Drama.” (photos by Kimberly G. Price)

January 1-15, 2012

Building collapse on Columbia recalls the old days

by Matt Graber, photos by Matt Graber and George Fiala

A

ccording to the NYC Department of Environmental Protection, the partial collapse of 185 Columbia Street (at the corner of Degraw Street) was the result of erosion from soil and water entering a microtunnel, which is currently being installed beneath Columbia Street. The tunnel is part of the Gowanus Facilities Upgrade project, which will reduce combined sewer overflows into the Gowanus Canal by transporting sewage from the canal to a local wastewater treatment plant.

No one was injured when the building partially collapsed on December 23rd, 2011, except possibly some chickens. In the week since the incident occurred, demolition specialists have been brought in to tear down the remaining structure. The result is a scene of destruction

January 1-15, 2012

that takes some long-time Red Hook residents back to a time when much of the neighborhood was characterized by fallen structures and vacant lots partly as a result of the ill-fated Columbia Street sewer renovation in the 1970’s that took more than five years due to the financial crisis of the time.

The photo to the right and above show the corner building in a state of collapse. The photo below was taken a few days later after the building was demolished.

In October 2011, two months before the microtunneling began, residents reported that the sidewalk on the north side of Degraw Street was settling. A DEP report released on December 29, 2011 explains that this kind of settling is common around construction sites that involve deep excavation and removal of underground water.

Work on the microtunnel has been temporarily suspended until the remaining rubble from 185 Degraw Street has been cleared out and the soil has been stabilized.

Red Hook Star-Revue Page 7

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Avanzino & Moreno, P.C. 26 Court Street, Suite 205, Brooklyn, NY 11242

(October 28, 1970 - December 28, 2011) One of the most colorful personalities in Red Hook is gone, after taking his own life at his apartment on Dikeman Street late last month. Many knew him as the co-founder of the Red Hook Wobblies - the softball team/community building organization that paid tribute to the values of the Industrial Workers of the World and an active demonstrator against the routing of sightseeing helicopters over Red Hook’s shores. Most knew him as a great conversationalist, always ready to engage in lively debate and the exchange of ideas. Whether one agreed with Carey or not, it was obvious within a few minutes of talking to him at Fort Defiance or the VFW Post or on any sidewalk where you happened to cross paths, that he had done his reading. His untimely death has prompted many friends, family and acquaintances to post comments on a Facebook group dedicated to memories and reflections on his life. The page can be viewed at tinyurl.com/7a9a7cy.

“He was too charming, gentle, open and without pretension,” writes Matt Steinglass, describing his first impression of Carey upon meeting him in 1989. “I never knew him more than slightly, but was struck again when we exchanged messages recently by his openhearted sincerity and warmth.”

“His passions ranged far and wide,” recounts Jeremy Appleton. “He could be equally enthusiastic about Dr. Suess or Gilles Deleuze … Carey had big heart, even as he kept it under heavy guard. My heart is heavy with the loss of him.”

Memorial arrangements have yet to be announced publicly. Carey was a friend to this paper and we are sad to see him go.

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www.RedHookStar.com January 1-15, 2012

The historian speaks:

Reflections on a Red Hook Christmas

C

hristmas each year, though it arrives and departs so rapidly, always leaves unanswered questions for many people. Though Christmas has many meanings in our world, I am guided by my beliefs and the teaching of the Catholic faith which is what I endeavor to abide by. I find myself, as I grow older, to be more and more interested in discovering as much as I can about my faith while God is still generous enough to permit me this learning opportunity.

I also realize that many well meaning individuals, while not religiously oriented, do abide by the moral laws of our society in-so-far as respecting each others viewpoints and opinions. They obey the necessary civil regulations designed to maintain the checks and balances needed to prevent the rampant chaos that would result without these rules.

As I ponder all this deeply, I also notice that most people, regardless of any religious convictions, seem to adopt a searching attitude at Christmas time, like they are wishing for a revelation to drastically reveal itself and answer all those questions they have as to the existence of a supreme being.

Some people choose to absorb themselves in a kind of Darwinism approach to atheism. They are comfortable with this in that they do not have to burden themselves with the thought of a possible creator, and this keeps them from entertaining ideas which would be contrary to their own way of thinking.

However, so much literature has been published the last 25 years that has tested the Darwin approach to creation.

It is a wonder this is still being entertained in some public school systems across our nation. The purpose of these reflections are not intended to cast doubts on anyone’s beliefs, but rather to cast doubt on whether the general public has found the contentment they always seem to look forward to each time Christmas comes knocking on their door. It is possible these seekers, who embrace Darwinism, may look for their seasonal pick-me-up by becoming more deeply involved in that approach. The point one must look at is that science and religious beliefs have no conflict. It is the human element that attempts to downplay one theory at the expense of the other.

by J.J. Burkard

“I say Christmas season, but what about Kwanza, Hanukkah or the Hindu Diwali Lamp Celebration?

All relate to some form of light, be it candles or electric lights, sunlight or big bonfires to dance around.” when the displays were taken down after new year, Christmas was over. If you were not fortunate enough to fill your hearts and minds with all the peace and good will that went around, it was time to begin your hope once more of achieving satisfaction next season.

The one attitude I sense year after year in Red Hook and closely surrounding neighborhoods is these folks are still seeking something, anything, to achieve this fulfillment of heart with the rich satisfied feeling of having gained the peace and goodwill associated with the Christmas Season, regardless of their particular faith. I say Christmas season, but what about Kwanza, Hanukkah or the Hindu Diwali Lamp Celebration? All relate to some form of light, be it candles or electric lights, sunlight or big bonfires to dance around and illuminate the spiritual aspects of these fantastic methods of faith, all seeking one common ground, all happening almost at the same time. Peace on earth, good will to men with an ever loving creator who is all merciful and just.

Religion and politics A recent national poll released last month showed that more than 70% of Americans believed in God, and more than three quarters of those polled felt

God had a plan for their life. Another related poll showed that more than 75% felt religion has lost its place in politics. Politicians use religion to gain a voter’s confidence. The voters feel they are being duped into supporting the politicians because the politicians use religion as a decoy and the voters do not trust the politicians!!! All in all, America seems to be solidly favorable towards a belief in God, contrary to the many impressions being circulated that our country is slowly becoming godless.

So who are these people who are searching for the Christmas spirit, or a similar spiritual boost around Christmas time?

New York Archbishop, Timothy Dolan, wrote a guest piece in the Christmas edition of the NY Daily News Dec 25, 2011, about the “increased anti-Christian oppression throughout the world”.

He mentions Egypt, China, Iraq, India, parts of Africa, and Indonesia to name a few. He goes on to say, Christians in those parts of the world on Christmas Day will go to their darkened churches using a back street route, hoping and praying, not the normal prayers of joy and thanks, but seeking the Lord’s protection, hoping the church doesn’t explode while they are inside and just to be able to get home

safe. Afterwards they worry if someone will come knocking on their door to arrest them and throw them in jail for the crime of worshipping their chosen god.

Not so here in America. People will hug each other and smile and greet one another accepting invitations to Christmas feasts.

They will do it in safety and security under complete protection. Yes, we in our safe Village of Red Hook are free to attend any religious service, any church or any temple we desire and seek our illusive spirit of the season without fear of unspeakable demeaning violence.

Freedom of religion This much alone to me is great news.

It answers in the affirmative the teachings of my Catholic Faith. “Seek and you shall find. Knock and it shall be opened to you.” It also tells me that some people in our Red Hook Village are not searching in vain, perhaps just knocking on the wrong door. But if we keep knocking, we are bound to find someone who will answer our prayer, admit us, and shower us with all that peace and good will we have been seeking all these years.

I do hope everyone had a beautiful holy Christmas and whatever religion you abide by, you did so faithfully and found your peace of heart. But remember, if you feel you haven’t experienced this emotion yet, keep trying. It will come to you when you least expect it. And it will be worth all the time you spent seeking.

I would like to extend to all our readers, a holy, happy, and prosperous 2012.

May all your good wishes be fully realized and enjoyed, and shared equally with your loved ones.

In The Nabe by Vince Musacchia

Christmas on the Red Hook pier In an email from Carolina Salguero of Portside, New York, she talks about the dockworkers, longshoreman and others erecting the Christmas Crèche (Manger) each season and taking it down after new year’s day. I have written her that the dockworkers, with their Creche’s installation and removal, did actually begin and end the Christmas Season in Red Hook each and every year as far back as I can recall. When residents viewed the seasonal clock, (Crèche), going up, they knew for sure it was approaching the holiday season. Likewise,

January 1-15, 2012

continued on page 11

Red Hook Star-Revue Page 9

Resolving Those Resolutions: The Annual Star-Revue Guide to Personal Improvement Elite Fitness Studio

111 Union Street, elitetrainingandfitness. com, (718) 596-0006

Getting to the gym often is half the battle when trying to stay in shape, so finding a fitness studio nearby often is a good idea. “There is a 90 percent chance that you will utilize your gym if it is less than a half mile away from your home,” says David Cascia, director of Elite Fitness Studio.

Located in the Columbia Waterfront District, Elite Fitness Studio looks deceptively small from the outside, but downstairs has ample space, including a room with 35 cardio units— some with built-in TV monitors—and weight machines that can accommodate anyone who is not a bodybuilder.

Classes include yoga, rowing, cycling and a variety of Pilates classes including mat, group reformer, equipment circuit and tower. Weight loss and nutrition coaching also is available.

Amenities also include showers and lockers equipped with digital locks.

Care for children 4 months to 9 years is available on weekdays from 9 am to 1 pm, for a rate of $7 for 60 minutes and $10 for 90 minutes. Elite also offers classes for children, including Lil’ Tumblers (18 months to two-anda-half years), Tumble and Roll (ages 3 to 5) and fit play, yoga and karate (ages 5 to 9). Class cards can be purchased if parents are non-members, but Cascia says there are inexpensive family and business memberships.

Sign up for the trial pass online; though it says it is valid for seven days, that offer is available only in June, July and August, so you’ll get a three-day pass. You may also have

seen the $50 gift cards around the area; Cascia says these are valid for new members only. Other promotions include three free months when you purchase a year membership and a couples’ special: buy one year for $899, get one year free. Elite Fitness is open Monday through Thursday from 5:45 am to 10 pm, Friday until 8:30 pm and on weekends from 8 am to 7 pm. -- Josie Rubio

Red Hook Recreation Center

cilities include a gymnasium, cardio room, athletic field, indoor basketball court, fitness room, afterschool room, computer resource center and the outdoor pool. The rec center offers computer classes, afterschool programs, a free indoor youth hockey clinic and nutrition seminar and free Shape Up NYC Zumba classes Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11 am and weight loss for senior classes from 11 am to 1 pm on weekdays through January 8.

Surrounding Red Hook Park offers basketball and handball courts, playgrounds, soccer fields, baseball fields and running tracks. -- Josie Rubio

Clayworks on Columbia

195 Columbia Street, clayworksoncolumbia.org, (718) 694-9540

For the past 17 years, this not-for-profit has been offering pottery classes and workspace in the area. Classes for adults and young adults meet weekly for three hours over the course of 10 weeks, for a cost of $320, plus a clay firing fee of 4 cents per cubic inch.

Classes include instruction, earthenware clays, glazes and shelf space, as well as access to an electric wheel, a slab roller, a clay extruder and a work table. The open studio hours are for students, and memberships are available for master potters, who can use the studio whenever classes are not in session. Call or check the website for more information on the next 10week session. -- Josie Rubio

Clayworks On Columbia a Brooklyn ceramics studio 155 Bay Street, nycgovparks.org, (718) 722-3211, (718) 722-7105

Two of the most notable features of the Red Hook Recreation Center are the outdoor Olympic-size pool and the reasonable membership fees.

Access to indoor recreation facilities without indoor pools is free for youths under 18, $10 per year for senior citizens (55 and up) and $50 per year for adults. (An additional $25 per year will grant you access to centers with indoor pools.)

The center is open from 7 am to 8:30 pm Monday through Friday and 8 am to 5 pm on Saturdays. Fa-

A full service Clay studio offering instruction at all levels as well as providing studio space for members and a storefront gallery on Columbia street.

We offer ongoing classes for adult and young adult learners of ceramic craft. Classes provide opportunity for learning and refining a broad range of skill including wheel throwing and hand-building techniques. Class size is small which allows individualized instruction for all skill levels.

Clayworks on Columbia, Inc. 195 Columbia Street, between Degraw & Sackett Brooklyn, NY 11231-1402

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Page 10 Red Hook Star-Revue

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January 1-15, 2012

Editorial:

Opinion:

A Resolution to be Made

by Michael Racioppo

T

urn on your TV or visit a website and it’s hard to avoid the barrage of ads for companies selling weight-loss products with the hopes of profiting from the millions of people that have said this year will be the year they drop some pounds. I hope both the companies and those looking to lose weight succeed. But governments around the world, including our city, state and federal, should make a resolution to pack on the pounds in 2012.

What do I mean? I mean that the great economist John Maynard Keynes was right when he said the boom, not the slump, is the right time for austerity. Over the past 18 months, as the economy has teetered between a slow recovery and double dip recession, the political discourse from City Hall to the Oval Office has been dominated by the fantasy of a lean and mean government being the key ingredient to grow the economy and shrink the number of unemployed.

But weren’t these policies disproved when the Obama Stimulus did not return the economy to rapid growth? Wasn’t that judge, jury and executioner for Keynesian theory in 21st century? Well, no, because people such as Nobel Prize winning economist Paul Krugman who actually understand and know this theory can explain, as he wrote in the Times last week, that right from the beginning, that the Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (aka the stimulus) was much too small given the depth of the slump.

In 2012 we need a government that is resolved to do what we, as much as we might not admit it, cannot do for ourselves. This means spending and fattening up until we have, or are as close as possible to, full employment.

This involves keeping and hiring more workers for a country and city that has jobs that need doing. I’m talking about policemen, firemen, teachers, construction workers, and social workers to deal with the record high populations living in shelters and whatever else is needed.

The reason is simple. Consumers can’t single-handedly lift the economy due to what’s known as Paradox of Thrift. This means people are nervous about the economy and for this reason save and therefore spend less. Since this becomes a widespread pattern, the economy gets worse and continues downs this path as more saving occurs.

The government, unlike individual people, can raise revenue when needed, and especially at the federal level, can run deficits. Clearly this is a slippery slope, but so is letting the invisible hand of the market lead us down a path to a second great depression as would have been the case if the stimulus and the actually profitable bank bailout had not been passed

by Congress.

Put it this way: the government cuts spending, people lose their jobs. Businesses lose customers which then leads to layoffs at the stores. This is what is known as a demand problem. John Maynard Keynes has been called “Doctor Demand” and in 2012, we need look past the propaganda spewed forth by wealthy conservatives who will proselytize for smaller government and realize what they are really saying, which is more government for them and less for us.

Michael Racioppo teaches Political Science at Brooklyn College.

Letters:

(send yours to letters@redhookstar.com)

Sing Sing Correctional Facility To:

The Red Hook Star-Revue

From: David K. Middleton Date: December 24, 2011 Dear Mr. George Fiala and Staff: I am writing this letter to you in regards of your newspaper, The Red Hook StarRevue. However, before I inquire further about information pertaining to your publication, allow me first to properly explain myself to you.

My name is David Kevin Middleton.

I am a life-time resident of Red Hook Village. My parents are Benjamin and Margret Middleton, who were both very active residents in the community.

I was born on Clinton Street in the year of 1956. Besides me, I have six siblings, four brothers and two sisters. However, my memory only allows me to go back as far as when I lived at 124 Bush Street, Apartment 3C until the age of

January 1-15, 2012

seven. Those were some of the fondest memories of my early childhood.

After my sister , Sylvia, transcended to her next journey at the tender age of fourteen years young, my family moved to 544 Court Street, right above the dentist’s office. I attended P.S. 27 until second grade. The Civil Rights Movement was at its height; Brown vs. Board of Education was in full effect. I, along with my two older brothers, was bussed to an all white school in Carroll Gardens, P.S. 58. After I graduated from P.S. 58, I went to a racially mixed junior high school, P.S. 142, where my mother was a full time teacher’s aid and eventually became a teacher to special education students. My father occasionally did some part time work as a security guard.

At the age of eleven, we moved to 330 Hamilton Avenue, right under the BQE. When I turned fifteen, we moved yet again to a brand new housing development in the back of Red Hook, 75B Visitation Place in 1971, up until my incarceration in 1999 when my par(please turn to page 15)

Progress in The Hook

2

011 began on the heals of one of the biggest debacles in NYC’s snow removal history, as the immense Christmas snow of 2010 stayed on the streets for weeks, causing the whole of NYC to experience the same transportation problems we face here in Red Hook.

In addition, the beginning of the new year left us with the debacle of two highly touted studies that would supposedly help the neighborhoods of Red Hook and the Columbia Waterfront District the BQE enhancement study as well as the Red Hook Trolley study. In addition, MTA cuts left us without the B77 that connected us with territories west of us.

As we noted in this paper, these studies and the problematic B61 bus service left us with no solutions to the problems of access or transportation. The trolley study was deemed unfeasible due to cost, and the BQE study provided four possibilities, but no funding. Up until now even the least expensive option has been left undone.

However, a confluence of another B61 study, initiated by Nydia Velazquez and Brad Lander, as well as some suggestions of improvements coming out of the trolley study has recently improved B61 service and added more modern buses to the route. According to local MTA lobbyist, Robert Berrios, the B61 is now scheduled to arrive every seven minutes during rushing, shortening the wait. In addition, the new buses are hopefully curing the frequent breakdowns that had been occurring previously. As a result of the trolley study, streets around Red Hook Houses that involve the bus route are being reformatted to as to provide a more rational route.

Another improvement coming out of the trolley study is the pending installation of better lighting and artwork underneath the Hamilton Avenue bridge around Court Street in order to make a safer and more enjoyable walk from one side to the other. We look forward to that.

Other issues affecting Red Hook include the long delayed sewer improvements along Van Brunt Street in the Columbia

Waterfront District. This job, which will add a separate sewer to handle rainwater from the catch basins, has been affecting traffic patterns for years. Van Brunt was forced to become a one way street and Columbia became two-ways, bringing more trucks to the busy area.

All of a sudden one day last summer, all work seemed to stop and all equipment removed from the sight. We made inquiries and published an article stating that the reason for this was that the city had not been paying Trocom, the contractor, and they pulled the crews. Soon after the publication of this story the bills were paid and Trocom returned and are now slowly working towards the completion of this project.

At the end of the summer it was suddenly announced that the Hamilton Avenue Bridge, used by many, especially students to get from the Red Hook side to the CWD side was to be closed for urgently needed repairs. The bridge was scheduled to be finished by the first of October, after the start of the school year, but even that was delayed as supposedly it was in even worse shape than expected. We took pictures and published their promises and then delays, and lo and behold, it was reopened prior to its next deadline.

The closing of the Smith and Ninth Street subway station for renovation was a blow to those who now have to walk an extra four or five blocks to catch the train. That renovation was scheduled to be completed by March 1st, making it a five month job, but now that has been delayed three more months. We hope that is the last delay and that the improvements will be worth the pain, especially on these cold winter days.

While we take no credit for any of the positive results that have come out these issues after we published stories about them, we do believe that adding transparency to the world around us is one of the key responsibilities of any community paper worth its salt.

We pledge in 2012 to be even more diligent at reporting on the local issues that affect everyone here, letting government know that we are watching.

Nydia’s Christmas party.

Held December 19th at Greenpoint’s cavernous Club Warsaw on Driggs Avenue, Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez’s annual Christmas party drew a wide host of supporters from her district, which includes much of north Brooklyn, parts of the lower east side of Manhattan and a swath of Brooklyn waterfront including all of Red Hook.

Speeches were made by many, including Borough President Marty Markowitz, a former staffer who recently won elected office himself and other local politicians.

Pictured above is the festive scene at the Warsaw National Home the night of the party. To the left is Star-Revue General Manager, Kimberly G. Price, posing with the Congresswoman, Nydia Velazquez.

Red Hook Star-Revue Page 11

Music:

Star Theater Jam Travels to Rocky Sullivans this Saturday

E

very Thursday night starting in June of 2010, the doors of the Star Theater, (named after the Italian Marionette Theater that once occupied the space), open at 7 pm for a free electric jam, where musicians of all stripes are welcomed. In the ensuing year and-a-half the music and the musicians have blossomed, formed new musical and personal relationships, and a hard core of loyalists eagerly await Thursday night. A second night was subsequently added, Acoustic Mondays, another evening of free form musical expression and an occasional beer or three.

Last month, the jam went on the road for a night at Rocky Sullivan’s, the famed Irish nightspot formerly on the east side of Manhattan, but now permanently ensconced in the spot of the former Liberty Tap House across from Ikea. Starting around 9 pm, the traveling musicians occupied the middle room and stage and belted out songs as disparate as John Denver’s Take Me Home, Country Roads, and Joan Jett’s I Love Rock and Roll.

In addition to folk, blues, rock, country and jazz will also be played at various times in the night, depending on the combination of players on stage. This particular night, singer and guitarist John Kessel, an accomplished singer/ songwriter/guitarist whose band “The Cigarettes” have played venues around Brooklyn and Manhattan, led spirited renditions of Suspicious Minds and Pretty Woman, among others.

Brett Ladin, another talented singer and guitarist who has lived in the area for years did great versions of Walking To New Orleans, the Fats Domino song, and Tom Petty’s Free Falling. On Saturdays Brett travels to a Thai restaurant in Teaneck where he actually makes good money playing any request asked.

Eric Ruff, who hosts a weekly jam himself at Montero’s every Wednesday night, and at his home on Fridays, sang Townes Van Zandt’s Loretta in his cowboy troubadour fashion.

Gregory Latty is a proficient jazz drummer, and equally at home with country or rock. (photo by Beth Wesler Dunn)

Brett Ladin not only sings and plays superbly, but knows the words to hundreds of songs. (photo by Stan Kosakowski)

improve, both by playing live as well as playing with other musicians they would have not otherwise met. Everyone learns from each other. Some of the musicians who come out have not played in years, life getting in the way, and for them this is a way to return to the life they loved in their youth for one night a week at least.

winter.

These jams have been called an exercise club for musicians, a catchphrase liked by George Fiala, who began these jams after he moved his mailing business, Select Mail, from Court Street over to 101 Union.

“We ended up with a lot more space in the one building at 101 then we leased in two storefronts at 485 and 520 Court Street. For the first time in my life, I was in an environment that had more space than I needed. In fact much more, not to mention the added feeling of 20 foot ceilings. The space was liberating.

“My original idea in building a stage was a place for my amateur garage band, which actually met once a week in a Windsor Terrace garage which was hot in the summertime and freezing in the

“After we held a few practices, I realized that the place was too good just for us, so I put up a few posters on Union and Columbia Streets advertising a jam, and mostly by word of mouth we have grown to a communal group of local musicians who have developed real friendships,” says Fiala.

He continues “All I do is keep stuff to drink in the refrigerator as well as an open atmosphere with as few rules as possible. Musicians are very good at self-regulating. People are always thanking me for the opportunity, but they don’t realize that I reap the biggest benefit of all - as a fledgling drummer I’ve gotten to play with some amazing musicians that would have otherwise never happened, not to mention the band Union which I now drum for, a band that was formed from people coming to the jams. Plus I get to hear amazing music that I get to hear every week without stepping out of the office.

Eric Ruff has sung plaintive folk songs for years and leads a group called the Red Hook Irregulars. (photo by Kosakowski)

The next edition of the Star Theater Jam on the Road will take place this Saturday night - January 7th, from 9 pm - 2 am. Rocky Sullivan’s is at 32 Van Dyke Street, (718) 246-8050 .

John Kessel is a versatile singer and guitarist. In the background harmonizing is Robert Barnes. (photo by Dunn)

Two friends who frequent the Star Theater are Robert Barnes, trumpeter, triangle player, keyboardist, singer and songwriter, and Greg Latty, drummer have toured throughout the world as part of numerous jazz ensembles and have performed in the theater as well.

Often in these jams, they get to work on songs that Robert wrote back in the 1980’s but never completed or recorded.

Another performer that graced the stage at Rocky Sullivan’s is Emma Morcroft.

Emma started singing at Union Street when she was just 16, but with as much poise as someone twice the age. She is a student at LaGuardia HS enrolled in the music program and has already done her own showcases of original songs at places such as the Lower East Side’s Living Room.

These jams and their sense of community have enabled all the players to

Page 12 Red Hook Star-Revue

Singer songwriter Emma Morcroft is here doing one of her original songs, accompanied by bassist extraordinaire Phil Dunn and drummer George Fiala. (photo by Dunn)

Robert Barnes hams it up. (photo by Dunn)

January 1-15, 2012

Dining: M

oonstruck had a restaurant like this, the neighborhood place where Olympia Dukakis goes alone after being once again confronted with the reality that her husband, Vincent Gardenia, has a mistress. Where she sees the drinkin-face argument between the aging college professor and his student paramour, and where the waiter and maitre’d greet her by name and fuss about her as she walks in. They live in Brooklyn Heights and somehow tucked in amongst the trees and brownstone row houses sits a small, friendly cornerrestaurant that has become their own.

The film takes place in the 1980’s and Brooklyn Heights/Boerum Hill has changed significantly since then, but I couldn’t help but be reminded of those images as I approached Rucola for the first time. The frontage is impossibly cute. Wrought iron gates cover the windows and filter the soft, warm light that comes from within. On a crisp night it seems almost an oasis, and the glow from the light bulbs and the clinking of glasses seem to radiate their own warmth. The street is otherwise almost entirely residential and remarkably quiet, though it sits just a few blocks off the bustling Smith Street corridor.

The inside is rustic. An unfinished wooden ceiling is trussed by heavy wooden beams, but the haute-barnyard bucolica is softened by crystal chandeliers and great vases of fresh flowers.

The crowd is mixed and smart-looking.

Young couples on third dates nervously eye each other, husbands and wives, groups of friends, girls-night-outers, and on one night several tables were pushed together to accommodate a boisterous party of at least fifteen in the middle of this tiny dining room. The room is small, and the atmosphere is very much in line with what passes for a contemporary, seasonal restaurant in Brooklyn these days, but without the waiters with neck tattoos or the Velvet Underground blasting through the speakers. This is casual neighborhood adult dining, and it’s utterly pleasant in every way.

We start at the bar, and as seems to be the rule in Brooklyn these days, Rucola does not take reservations for small groups, so be prepared to wait for a table during prime hours. A half-hour wait can be made far more tolerable by a cocktail or two and a couple of appetizers, which is exactly how we decide to pass the time. The menu is nominally northern Italian and not particularly large, but it changes often and there are always specials which should be paid attention to. We order some branzino crudo and an antipasto platter, a glass of Nebbiolo and a prosecco and settle in to people-watch from the bar.

The branzino is paper-thin shavings of snow-white fish, raw and dotted slapdash with good, peppery olive oil and toasted pine nuts. Though I love ceviche, it was a pleasure not to have

January 1-15, 2012

Boerum Hill’s Rucola, a neighborhood gem worth going back to over and over again

by Erik Penney

the delicate presence of the branzino overwhelmed by acid and cilantro, as is often the case with crudo’s Mexican cousin. Here you could taste the delicate ocean-saltiness, and the pine nuts gave it crunch and richness. This was a wonderful, clean, light way to start the meal.

Bar snacks and wine Our antipasto came with three different types of cheeses, the salty, nutty pecorino sardo being the favorite, a deliciously dry sorpressata, olives and two types of pickled vegetables – fennel and hen-of-the-woods mushrooms.

These two plates made for perfect bar snacks, salty and oily, and were a great counterpoint to my wine. I normally do not care much for hen-of-the-woods mushrooms as I find them a bit too musty and earthy for my taste, but something happens when you pickle them. They tone themselves down, and you get just enough of the mushroomy funk without getting steamrolled by it.

Sitting now and with appetites locked and loaded, we start dinner. There is a pork shank, cooked slow for hours until the meat gives way, served with braised cabbage and pickled quince. This is remarkable. Pork is the most versatile of meats, pairing equally well with sweet, sour and savory flavors, and the cabbage and quince both accent the perfectly cooked shank wonderfully.

There is a special of risotto, made with prosecco and rock shrimp, finished to

spaghetti carbonara and a cavatelli with wild boar ragu, and any of these are certainly excellent and at least one of the pastas should be ordered for the table when you go. There is simply too much skill and creativity involved not to.

Amaris a nice touch This meal produced substantial leftovers and we skip dessert afterwards. Double espressos for us both and then the manager came by Rucola sits on a residential corner in Boerum Hill with two Amaris, the Italian bitter herbal digestif, gratis. no other reason than to play the foil to This is a nice touch and a gesture like the chef’s ever-changing pasta whims that always makes one feel welcome but really, this is the kind of place were and wanted, making it hard not to reflect positively on the meal. My posiyou can reliably go over and over and tive impression of Rucola is not, howremain happily interested and satisfied ever, the result of free booze-induced each time. revisionism. I feel happy to be in the room, felt the warmth of their service and how that extends to the food they 190 Dean Street (between Bond St and serve. Service is attentive and helpful Hoyt St) (718) 576-3209 without being overbearing, and the easy flow of the food and drinks at the www.rucolabrooklyn.com bar makes the wait for a table enjoy-

Rucola

able, even preferable, over being seated immediately. And when seated, the timing and execution of everything placed in front of us is near-flawless. I will return, if for

Recommended dishes: crudo, antipasto with pickled vegetables, pork shank, white beans with escarole, any of the rotating list of pastas

“This is the kind of place were you can reliably go over and over and remain happily interested and satisfied each time.” its proper loose soupiness with lots of butter and Parmagianno Reggiano.

This is powerful, life-giving stuff, and one of the better risottos I have ever had. The pleasantly light fishiness of the shrimp somehow do not get lost in the cheesy richness of the rest of the dish, which shows the chef’s skill in designing and executing this plate. If this is on the menu when you go, it is a must-order.

For side dishes, there is a beautifully warm bowl of white beans in a buttery broth with wilted escarole, and Brussels sprouts are charred perfectly to bring out their natural crispy sweetness.

Sunchokes, which are the fingerling potato-like tuber of a species of sunflower, are roasted and perfectly tender inside.

The pastas are all fresh and housemade and seem to rotate on and off the menu with Spaceballs-like ludicrous speed, and on this night we try the fusilli, tossed with basil pesto, kale and lots of grated cheese. It is good, but I suspect that the rigatoni Bolognese that night may have been a better choice. Other nights have featured a terrifically eggy

Red Hook Star-Revue Page 13

Star-Revue Restaurant Guide RED HOOK

BAKED 359 Van Brunt St., (718) 2220345. Bakery serving cupcakes, cakes, coffee, pastries, lunch items. Free wi-fi. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

THE BROOKLYN ICE HOUSE 318 Van Brunt St., (718) 222-1865. Burgers, barbecue and pulled pork sandwiches. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Cash only.

Botanica 220 Conover St (at Coffey St), (347) 225-0147. Fine Cocktails, Specialty Liquors & Cacao Prieto Chocolate.

Open Tue-Sun 5pm-12am, Fri 5 pm-3am, Sat 2pm-3am, Sun 2pm -12am. In-house Distilled Cacao Rum Tastings. Tue: Poker night, Wed-Fri: Board game nights. Sat-Sun: Afternoon cocktails. Cash only. Free Wi-Fi. Available for private events.

DEFONTE’S SANDWICH SHOP 379 Columbia St., (718) 855-6982. Variety of large sandwiches, including roast beef and potato and egg. Open for breakfast and lunch Mon-Sat. Cash only.

DIEGO’S RESTAURANT 116 Sullivan St., (718) 625-1616. Mexican and Latin American cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. AE, DS, MC, V. F&M BAGELS 383 Van Brunt St., (718) 855-2623. Bagels, sandwiches, wraps, chicken salad, breakfast plates, burgers, hot entrees and more. Open for breakfast and lunch daily 5 am-5 pm. AE, DS, MC, V. Delivery available.

In addition to their good food, including their delicious Red Hook pizza, written about last year in this newspaper, one can often find good music at Rocky Sullivan’s. On Sunday afternoons and Monday and Tuesday evenings one will encounter an Irish Seisiun a jam session for traditional Irish musicians. (photo by Stan Kosakowski).

FORT DEFIANCE 365 Van Brunt St., (347) 453-6672. Brunch, sandwiches and small plates. Open for breakfast Tue; breakfast, lunch and dinner Mon, Wed-Sun.

8335. Seafood, seasonal and local fare.

Open for dinner Thu-Sat, brunch Sat-Sun. AE, MC, V.

THE GOOD FORK 391 Van Brunt St., (718) 643-6636. Fare from Chef Sohui Kim in an unpretentious atmosphere; menu varies seasonally and can include pork dumplings, roast chicken, homemade gnocchi and steak and eggs Korean style. Open for dinner Tue-Sun. AE, MC, V. HOME/MADE 293 Van Brunt St., (347) 223-4135. Seasonal, local and rustic/elegant cuisine, with an extensive wine list of 40 selections by the glass, and local brew and Kombucha on tap. Coffee and pastry Mon-Fri 7 am-2 pm, dinner Wed-Fri 5 pm to 11 pm, brunch Sat & Sun 10 am-4pm, dinner 4-11 pm.

HOPE & ANCHOR 347 Van Brunt St., (718) 237-0276. Large menu that includes burgers, entrees and all-day breakfast.

Open for lunch and dinner Mon-Fri; breakfast, lunch and dinner Sat-Sun. AE, DS, MC, IKEA One Beard St., (718) 246-4532.

Swedish meatballs, pasta, wraps and sandwiches; breakfast items include eggs and cinnamon buns. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. AE, DS, MV, V. KEVIN’S 277 Van Brunt St., (718) 596-

MARK’S PIZZA 326 Van Brunt St., (718) 624-0690. Open for lunch and dinner daily. AE, MC, V. Delivery available.

RED HOOK LOBSTER POUND 284 Van Brunt St., (646) 326-7650. Maine lobster rolls, Connecticut rolls and whoopie pies. Open for lunch and dinner Tue-Sun. ROCKY SULLIVAN’S 34 Van Dyke St., (718) 246-8050. Irish pub with brick-oven pizza, sandwiches; lobster feasts Fri 6-9 pm, Sat 5-8 pm. Open for lunch and dinner daily. AE, DS, MC, V.

COLUMBIA WATERFRONT DISTRICT

ALMA 187 Columbia St., (718) 643-5400.

Modern Mexican fare. Open for dinner Mon-Fri, brunch and dinner Sat-Sun. AE, DS, MC, V. Bagel Boy Cafe 75 Hamilton Ave next to Chase, (718) 855-0500. Breakfast lunch and dinner w/hot buffet food. Open 4 am - 9 pm Mon - Friday, closing at 6 on the weekend.

CALEXICO CARNE ASADA 122 Union St., (718) 488-8226. Tex-Mex burritos, tacos, quesadillas and more. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Cash only. Delivery available.

Casa Di Campagna 117 Columbia Street (718) 237-4300. If you think that you’ve enjoyed all the best pizza in the world, try this new restaurant on the corner of Kane Street. Reasonably priced CASELNOVA 214 Columbia St., (718) 522-7500. Traditional Northern and Southern Italian dishes, brick-oven pizza, pasta, lunch panini. Open 7 days a week for dinner at 5, Friday for lunch at noon, Sunday Brunch at 11 am and Dinner at 4. Delivery available. AE, DS, MC, V. FERNANDO’S FOCACCERIA RESTAURANT 151 Union St., (718) 8551545. Southern Italian fare, including pasta and panelle. Open for lunch and dinner Mon-Sat. Cash only.

HOUSE OF PIZZA & CALZONES 132 Union St., (718) 624-9107. Pizza, calzones and sandwiches. Open for lunch and dinner daily. Cash only. Delivery available.

JAKE’S BAR-B-QUE RESTAURANT 189 Columbia St., (718) 522-4531. Kansas City-style barbecue.

KOTOBUKI BISTRO 192 Columbia St., (718) 246-7980. Japanese and Thai cuisine, including sushi, teriyaki, pad Thai and special maki named after area streets. Open for lunch Mon-Sat, dinner 7 days.

LILLA CAFE 126 Union St., (718) 8555700. Seasonal fare, hormone and antibiotic-free meats, bread baked on premises and homemade pasta from Chef Erling Berner.

BYOB. Open for dinner Tue-Sun, lunch Thu-Fri, brunch Sat-Sun. MC, V. MAZZAT 208 Columbia St., (718) 8521652. Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fare, including falafel sandwiches, kibbe, bronzini, lamb shank, baklava and small plates. Open for lunch and dinner daily.

PETITE CREVETTE 144 Union St., (718) 855-2632. Seafood, including corn-and-crab chowder, salmon burgers and cioppino, from Chef Neil Ganic. BYOB. Open for lunch and dinner Tue-Sat. Cash only.

TEEDA THAI CUISINE 218 Columbia St., (718) 643-2737. Thai dishes include papaya salad, dumplings and massamun curry. Open for lunch and dinner Mon-Sat, dinner Sun. MC, V. Delivery available.

Carroll Gardens Hours: Noon to 10:30 pm Tues. to Thurs. Noon to 11pm Friday.

4pm to 11pm Saturday & 4pm to 10:30pm Sunday.

Page 14 Red Hook Star-Revue

Marco Polo Ristorante, 345 Court Street, 718 852-5015, Italian, Sunday 1:00 pm - 10:30 pm, Monday CLOSED,Tues, Wed, Thurs 11:30 am - 11:00 pm,Friday 11:30 am - Midnight,Saturday 1:00pm Midnight, All Major Cards

Bar Bruno, 520 Henry St., 347-7630850, Latin-influenced spot for classic and beer cocktails, burgers and big salads served in bowls.

Casa Rosa, 384 Court Street, 718-7971907, Italian noon -10:30 p.m daily, All cards.

Vinzee’s, 412 Court Street, 718 855 1401, American , All Major Cards.

Abilene, 442 Court Street, 718-5226900, American-bar-Mexican, 11 a.m - 4 a.m daily Nine-D, 462 Court Street, 718-488-8998, Thai, Lunch Tue - Sun: 12 pm - 3pm Dinner Mon-Fri: 5pm - 11pm Sat-Sun: 3pm - 11pm, Visa MC Prime Meats, 465 Court Street, 718254-0327 or 0345, German, American, Mon-Thurs 10 a.m-12 a.m , Fri 10a.m1a.m, Sat 8 a.m-1 a.m Sun 8 a.m- 12 a.m , Visa Mastercard, AE Vino y Tapas, 520 Court street, 718407-0047, Spanish Tapas, 5 p.m-11 p.m daily, AE, palocortadobk.com Mezcals Restaurant, 522 Court Street, 718-783-3276 Mexican,Tequila Bar, 11a.m11p.m daily, All Major Cards Five Guys, 266 Court street, 347-7992902, American, 11-10 a.m - p.m daily, All cards Buddy’s Burrito & Taco Bar, 260 Court street, 718-488-8695, Mexican, 11:30 a.m- 11 p.m, Visa, Mastercard Ghang, 229 Court Street, 718-875-1369, Thai, Sun-Thurs 11:30 a.m, 11:30 p.m, Visa Mastercard Downtown Bar & Grill, 160 Court street, 718-625-2835, American, Mon-Sun 12p.m-2 a.m, All Major, Cards, downtownbarandgrill.com Gowanus Yacht Club, 323 Smith Street, New York - (718) 246-132, Beer, pierogies, hot dogs and more.

Cody’s Ale House Grill, 154 Court Street, 718-852,6115, International Cuisine, 8a.m-10p.m daily, All Major Credit Cards Natures Grill, 138 Court street, 718852,5100, Gourmet Health food, Mon-Fri 10a.m-11 p.m, Sat 9 a.m, Sun 9 a.m- 9 p.m, All Major Cards, naturesgrillcafe.com Palmyra, 316 Court street, 718-7971110, Mediterranean, 11a.m- 11 p.m daily, Visa Mastercard Ling Ling Young, 508 Henry Street, 260-9095, Chinese, eat in or take out. All cards.

Frankies 457, 457 Court Street, Italian, 718 403-0033, cash

January 1-15, 2012

Star-Revue Classifieds Help Wanted

Freelance Writers: The Red Hook Star-Revue is looking for freelance writers for both the arts and news sections. We want to buttress our news as well as local theater and arts coverage. Email George@ redhookstar.com Facility Manager Wanted Boiler, Plumbing, Carpentry, Electric, ceramic, plastering, painting desirable.

Must be able to supervise a staff of 5. Fax Resume Attn: Lisa Baptiste to 718-243-2253 or email to lisa. baptiste@shindamgmtcorp.com

Ads for Tag Sales and Babysitters are free! Just email them in to freeads@ redhookstar.com and we’ll run ‘em!

No job too big or too small

The Red Hook Star-Revue now publishes twice a monthly - classified advertising is one of the best and least expensive ways to get your message across. Special yearly contracts available for service businesses such as plumbers, electricians for as little as $500 annually. Email Kimberly at kimberly@redhookstar.com or call 718 624-5568

Toilets, Boilers, Heating, Faucets, Hot Water Heaters, Pool Heaters.

B & D Heating

Neighborhood Services

507 Court Street 718 625-1396

Classes/Workshops

Glass Art of Brooklyn www.ernestporcelli.com 718596-4353 Glass Fusing Workshop every Wednesday Evening 7 -9 Beginners to Advanced Students welcome. Maximum 6 students per class. Classes are ongoing. Monthly fee $175, includes most materials, and firings.

Movers

COOL HAND MOVERS Friendly local guys that can relocate your life, or just shlep your new couch from Ikea. We’ll show up on time, in a truck or van if necessary, and basically kick ass -- you might even have a good time! Call for a free estimate at (917) 584-0334 or email at coolhandmovers@gmail.com Customer reviews on YELP.COM Real Estate Classified ads are $8 per listing per month. Neighborhood Services are $10 per month or $100 the year. Display classifieds are also available. Call Matt for details, 718 6245568. You may email your ads, or drop them in the mail. Ads@RedHookStar.com; 101 Union Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231 All other line ads are $5 per listing per month.

Spoil yourself in a fresh and modern salon. Expert in color, chemical service and organic products for all types of hair.

Customized cuts for your lifestyle and personality.

Walk-ins welcome.

Open Tuesday - Friday 11 - 8, Saturday 10:30 - 6.

352 Van Brunt Street 718 935-0596

Letter to the Editor (cont. from page 11) Licensed Electrical Contractors Commercial • Residential • Industrial Free Estimates

Violations Removed All Types of Wiring Emergency Service EMERGENCY SERVICE 137 King Street Brooklyn, NY 11231 Fax: (718) 935-0887

Vito Liotine (718) 625-1995 (718) 625-0867 aliotine@aol.com

ents moved back to Greensboro, North Carolina. I guess by now it is pretty obvious that you are aware of my current situation.

I first learned of your publication when another inmate from the neighborhood informed me that he has a neighborhood newspaper called The Red Hook Star. I was truly impressed with the information that was made available in your paper. I have notice from various sources that the neighborhood has made some perceptible changes.

I might also mention that since my incarceration, I have made considerable strides. I have attained my Associates Degree in Humanities and will be obtaining my Behavioral Science Degree in June of 2012. I will also be enrolled at the NYTS, (New York Theology Seminar), in the fall of 2012 for my Masters. I have also obtained several certifications in the fields of Social, Biological, Alcohol and Drug Behavior.

Therefore, I am looking forward to my release in 2016 and bringing a valuable asset in the community. Which brings me back to my previous position. I am respectfully requesting, if at all feasibly possible, could you “please” put me on your mailing list. I would greatly appreciate this gesture in the highest regards.

Thank you for your time and consideration in this matter. Respectfully Submitted, David K. Middleton

R & R Realty

P. S. If you wish to print this letter in your Letters section of your newspaper, please feel free to do so. God bless and happy holidays to you and your staff.

Editors Note: While at this point in time we have no official mailing list for the newspaper, as the papers are left in local stores and restaurants for free pick-up, we will most definitely honor Mr. Middleton’s request and send him the papers.

R&R Realty – The Brooklyn Advantage

When looking for Brooklyn commercial or residential real estate, you need expert advice. Brooklyn has become New York’s art hub – home to musicians, artists and a host of emerging galleries. R&R has over 25 years specialized experience in the ever-growing and exciting landscape of Brooklyn. Whether you are seeking the best fit to house your business or looking to live in the next New York hotspot, R&R Realty is there with the answers you need. R&R can also handle all of your building management needs.

Property Management of Commercial/Residential Rentals Music/Art Studio Spaces

386 Third Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215 Phone: (718) 858-5555 Fax: (718) 858-5838 Website: www.2rrealty.com

January 1-15, 2012

Red Hook Star-Revue Page 15

Things To Do Jan 1 - 15 If you have an event you would like listed in the Red Hook StarRevue calendar, please email redhookstarcalendar@gmail.com.

CHILDREN

Kentler International Drawing Space—353 Van Brunt St. (718) 8752098, kentlergallery.org.

CLASSES

Brooklyn General—128 Union St. (718) 237-7753 brooklyngeneral.com. Classes and Workshops for all things Sewing.

Prema Yoga 236 Carroll St. #1F Brooklyn 11231 .PremaYogaNYC.com 1/08 Sun Full moon Meditation 4pm - 5pm guided by Sarah Willis Donations Graciously Accepted.

Yoga Classes 201 Richards St. #15 www.tessamwright.com/yoga.

Join Tessa with morning yoga for every one!

Hatha style style for all levels. Mondays starting 1/09 @10am. Suggested donation - $10.

COMEDY

Littlefield—622 Degraw St., littlefieldnyc.com. 1/09 Mon 7:30pm Hot Tub w/ Kurt &Kristen $5-8 1/14 Sat 3pm Foul: Movie Screening FREE 6pm Windows To Imaginary Places: Art Reception FREE 1/16 Mon 7:30pm Hot Tub w/ Kurt&Kristin $5-8

EXHIBITIONS

Gowanus Studio Space 166 7th St. (347) 948-5753 .gowanusstudio.org Through 1/13 Meditations On The Multiple Featured artists: Yunmee Kyong, Michelle Levy, Jomar Statkun Call for viewing times.

Brooklyn Waterfront Artists Coalition—499 Van Brunt St., (718) 5962506, bwac.org Spring of ‘12 Wide Open 3 Opening to be announced.

Invisible Dog---51 Bergen Street, theinvisibledog.org. Kentler International Drawing Space—353 Van Brunt St. (718) 875-2098, kentlergallery.org. Lezli

Rubin-Kunda and Ellen Moffat,

Star Revue and get a free gift bag.

Look North Inuit Art Gallery—275 Conover Street, Suite 4E, (347) 721-3995, looknorthny.com. Polar Light: Greenland.

The Greenland photography of Rena Bass Forman and the Greenland drawings of Zaria Forman. A climate change awareness exhibition held in conjunction with Al Gore’s ‘The Climate Project’.

The Waterfront Museum Lehigh Valley Barge No.79, 290 Conover Street. (718) 624-4719 ext. 11 www.waterfrontmuseum.org. Free boat tours & open hours all through the year. Thursdays 4 - 8 pm and Saturdays 1 - 5 pm in Red Hook.

Gallery Small New York---416 Van Brunt, smallnewyork.com. Will be closed for Jan. and will re-open in Feb with Smalls: Fine 19th Centurty European and American Oils nad Drawings.

FOOD/DRINK

MUSIC

The Star Theater Acoustic Jam 101 Union St. btwn Columbia and Van Brunt (718) 624-5568 Every Monday Night 9pm. C&W to Jazz (with a healthy dose of Blues in the middle). Refreshments served and Donations Graciously Accepted. Full back line. Bring your Axe!

Botta di Vino—357 Van Brunt St., (347) 689-3664. Friday night candle light blind tasting. Discuss what you smell, taste and feel with your own palate. a group forum for wanna be wine geeks Admission requires one purchase.

The Star Theater Electric Jam 101 Union St. btwn Columbia & Van Brunt (718) 6245568 Every Thursday Night 9pm. Rock, Blues & Jazz Madness. Refreshments served and Donations Graciously Accepted. Full back line. Bring your Axe!.

Dry Dock Wine + Spirits---424 Van Brunt St., (718) 852-3625, drydockny. com. compass box whiskey,

The Red Hook Star Revue Open Jam @ Rocky Sullivan’s 34 Van Dyke St. (718) 246-8050 1/07 Sat. 9pm The Star Theater Gang invade Rocky Sullivan’s for a night of full on Rock ‘n Roll Madness. Bring your axe, your music and your thirst. Full back line.

MikNik Lounge 200 Columbia St. (917) 770-1984 ‘Rebel! Rebel!’ (Gay Night) every First & Third Thurs. 9pm - 2am Cheap Beer, $6 well drinks, friendly crowd.

MISC

Rocky Sullivan’s—34 Van Dyke St., (718) 246-8050. 1/05 Thurs. 9pm Rocky’s World Famous Pub Quiz Park Slope Flea Market---Between 1st & 2nd street on 7th avenue, Brooklyn. An urban adventure exploring diverse people’s crafts and collectibles, fabrics and fashions, notes and notables, all at bargain prices Every Saturday and Sunday.

MUSEUM

Micro Museum—123 Smith Street, micromuseum.com. Above and Beyond, a three-year retrospective of the art of William and Kathleen Laziza, every Saturday from 12-7pm, refreshments from 5-7pm, $2 per person. Meet Kathleen and William Laziza on October 29 from 12 - 7 PM. Admission by Donation. See their original interactive, media and visual art works. Say you like Red-Hook

Page 16 Red Hook Star-Revue

Issue Project Room 232 3rd Ave btwn 3rd & 4th Ave (718) 330-0313Floating Points: a canary torsi, Five Performers Demonstrate a Field ...an investigation of how movement in a particular room affects a simple sound environment: specifically through Hemisphere speakers in the sanctum of the Old American Can Factory. Admission $15 - $10 members Hope & Anchor—347 Van Brunt St., (718) 237-0276. Karaoke, Thursdays through Saturdays from 9 pm-1 am.

Bargemusic—Fulton Ferry Landing, 2 Old Fulton St., (718) 624-2083, bargemusic.org. .Thurs. 1/5 8pm Here And Now Series, Steven Beck, piano, 1/7 Fri. 8pm Masterworks Series, 1/8 Sat. 3pm Masterworks Series. 1/13 Fri. 8pm $25 ($20 seniors, $15 student)1/14 Sat 8pm Masterworks Series, 1/15 Sat. 3pm Masterworks Series. All concerts: $35 (seniors $30, students$15) unless otherwise noted.

Bait & Tackle—320 Van Brunt St., (718) 797-4892, redhookbaitandtackle.com. Rolie Polie Guacamole for the kids, 1/6 Fri. 9pm, Sons Of An Illustrious Father, 1/13 Fri. 9pm Cal Folger Day w/Rayvon Browne 1/15 Sun. 3pm The Rob Reddy Group The Bell House—149 7th St., (718) 6436510, thebellhouseny.com. 1/4 7:30pm, The 6th Annual 50 First Jokes, $10 adv. $12 dos., 1/6 Fri. 7:30pm, Beauty And The Beast Sing-Along, $10 adv., $12 dos. 1/7 Sat. 8pm Wasabassco, FREE. 1/9 Mon. 7pm, BCS Championship Live On Big Screen, $5. 1/11 7:30 (2 sets) The Little Willies, Feat Lee Alendaer, Jim Campilongo, Norah Jones, Richard Julian & Dan Reiser. $35, 1/12 Thurs. 8pm The Day The Music Died, $10 adv. $12 dos. 1/13 Fri. 9pm The Engaements: Friday The 13th Undead 1989 Winter Formal, $12 adv. $15 dos (admission includes 1 free drink) Jalopy Theatre and School of Music—315 Columbia St., (718) 395-3214, www. jalopy.biz. 1/4 Wed. 9pm Roots & Ruckus, 1/5 Thurs. 8pm. McMule, 9pm.

Bobtown, 10pm Katie Brennan, 1/6 Fri. 9pm Peter Stampfel and The Ether Frolic Mob, $10, 1/7 Sat. 2pm Pat Conte Presents: Banjo Styles of Dock Boggs Workshop - Part 1, $25. 6pm Art Closing: The Fabulous Jalopy @ Five Years by Robin Hoffman, 9pm The Whiskey Spitters, 10:30pm Doug Skinner & David Gold, $10, 1/10 Tues. 8:30pm Tony Scherr Trio, 1/11 Wed. 9pm Roots & Ruckus, 1/12 Thurs. 9pm, Beth Bahia Cohen, 10:30pm Kristin Andreassen, $10. 1/14 Sat. 2pm Pat Conte presents: Mountain Banjo Tunings Workshop, $25. 8pm Brooklyn City Limits Presents: Andrew James Jr. 9pm The Keeps 10pm Frankenpine 11pm The Woodshed Prophets, $8 adv, 10 dos, FREE Sixpoint Craft Ale 8-9pm. 1/15 Sun 12pm Vocal Harmony Basics $20, 2pm Vocal Harmony: Duos & Trios $25, 7:30 The Jon Herrington Band $15 The Rock Shop—249 Fourth Ave., therockshopny.com. 1/5 Thurs 7:30pm Seabrook Power Plant, Marika Hughes $7 1/6 Fri Triple Hex, Alec Stephen, Fly Ashtray. $7 1/9 Mon 8pm Liam Finn: Murmuration (residency) Every Monday in January. $20 series - ind. show $8 1/12 Thurs. 7:30pm Big Balls plays High

Voltage, Les Sans Culottes, Out of Order $8-10. 1/13 Fri 8pm Exemption, Kill Your Television, Mount Olympus $10 1/14 Sat 7:30 Blondie Chaplin $10 - 12, 10:30pm Pink Mountainops (solo) $10 Union Hall---702 Union Street, unionhallny.com. 1/5 Thurs 8pm The 2nd Annual Music & Cartoonist Show: Overlord, The Walking Hellos, Pretendo $8 1/6 Fri. 7:30pm Vs. Antelope, (Damn) This Desert Air, Your Skull My Closet, The New Self Defense $8 adv. $10 dos MIDNIGHT SHOW, Karaoke Killed My Cat FREE, 1/7 Sat 8pm Heart of Darkness w/ Greg Barris, Gabe Liebman, Matthew Modine, Pianist Peter Drungle, 1/8 Sun 7:30 The Jukebox $5 1/9 Mon 7:30pm Aabaraki, Cole Williams, King Expressers $8 1/11 Wed 7:30pm Palomar, The Secret History, Delta Hotel $8 1/12 Thurs. 7:30pm The Goddamn Rattlesnake, Butcher Boy, The Cowboy Band $8 adv. $10 dos 1/13 Fri 8pm Bridges and Powerlines, Monahan, Jon Mirachi $8 adv $10 dos MIDNIGHT SHOW Karaoke Killed My Cat FREE, 1/15 Sun 7:30 pm Pretty Good Friends $7

PUBLIC MEETINGS

City of New York Community Board Six www.brooklyncb6.org 1/09 Mon 6:30 pm Public Safety/Environmental Protection/Permits/Licenses: Agenda T.B.A. 78th Precinct 65 6th Ave. btwn Bergen & Dean,. 1/11 Wed 6:30 pm General Board Meeting Prospect Park Residence 1 Prospect Park West @Flatbush Ave.

READINGS

The Gowanus Studio Space 166 7th Street (347) 948-5753 www.gowanusstudio.org 1/14 Sat. 8pm Private Line: We Can Try Make Poetry a Party Andrew Durbin, Lawrence Giffin, Astrid Lorange, reading from their works. Beer & Music will be served. adm. - FREE

THEATER

The Heights Players 26 Willow Place, heightsplayers.org (718) 237-2752 1/06 - 1/22 Fri.& Sat. 8pm Sun. 2pm Enchanted April by Matthew Barber, directed by Susan Montez. 1/09 Mon 7pm Auditions - The Laramie Project.

January 1-15, 2012