New Years Eve Places to Be.

There are a lot of wonderful bars, restaurants, and venues in our neighborhood where one can celebrate New Years Eve without the hassle of fighting the crowds in Manhattan. We're sure all the delicious restaurants, such as Prime Meats, Good Fork, and Char 4 will be doing something special. The question is whether or not they are booked yet. If you haven't tried already, don't wait any longer, make some phone calls now. Seersucker is doing a six-course southern feast for $120. The Grocery is also doing a special tasting menu for the evening. Clover Club is always a favorite. They'll have a four hour open bar from 9pm -1am, passed Hors d’oeuvres, Champagne Toast and the usual festivities for $100 per person. If a venue is more your style, $45 tickets are still available for New Years Eve Soul at The Bell House featuring Lee Fields & The Expressions and Sugar Pie Desanto. Wherever your night takes you, have a happy new year!

Bennington Writers at The Invisible Dog

We passed this flyer the other day about an event happening at The Invisible Dog (51 Bergen Street near Smith) on January 17th from 7:30-9:30 pm. They call it a "Literary Feast" and it features essayist Phillip Lopate as well Fiction, Non-Fiction and Poetry by MFA Grads Willa Carroll, Ken Harvey, Jennifer Acker, V. Hansmann, Lisa Alexander, Anne Decker, Julia Lichtblau, Alex Dawson, and Liz Arnold. There will be wine and book sales. If your New Years Eve resolution is to get involved more in the literary world than this is your event. Events at this venue are always great and usually pull in a crowd. We didn't notice any RSVP notice on the flyer but it wouldn't hurt to contact them to see about that. Check out their website if you're interested.

Moscot coming soon.

An uber hip eyewear shop is coming to the neighborhood. 159 Court Street to be specific. The company, Moscot, has been around for almost 100 years and specializes in vintage eyewear, particularly the 1930's-1970's eras. They have two stores in Manhattan, one on Orchard Street and one on West 14th. The new place on Court looks like it might be opening pretty soon. Although we can't see inside because of the brown paper covering the windows, the sign is up and ready. You can check out and even shop on their website here. Their eyewear looks pretty cool. Simple but stylish. Although we're always sad to see an old business go, 159 Court used to be a Floral and Photo shop, we think this new business is going to be a great addition to the neighborhood. What do you think?

3 things to do before the weekend.

We've got a few suggestions to prepare for the busy Christmas weekend. Aside from the usual preparations, like cleaning and shopping, we have few things to add to your list for today.

Pamper yourself- Go get a last minute facial, manicure, shave, or massage. Persons of Interest on Smith street is a good place for men and Dashing Diva gives great manis and pedis.

Get in the Spirit- Get a zipcar (they have several locations in the area) and go visit the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights. This Brooklyn neighborhood is filled with residents who compete with their neighbors to have to most extravagant light displays and the public reaps the benefits. It's sure to fill you with all the warm and fuzzy feelings to get you ready for the weekend.

Take a minute to warm up- While doing your last minute shopping in the neighborhood, stocking stuffers, gifts, or food for your feast, sit down and have yourself a hot chocolate break. The Chocolate room has, hands down the best in the hood. Thick dark chocolatey and not too sweet. Add a home made marshmallow and you're ready for Christmas!

Rock' Cool

While we're on the subject of very unique classes for children (yesterday's blog was about interesting art classes, such as fantasy art and abstract, at Muriel Guepin Gallery) we thought we'd let you know about another school we heard of in the area. This school, or rather scool, is called Rock's Cool. We're assuming this is a play on words to say rock school. We don't have too much information because the website doesn't seem to be up yet but you can get more info by emailing mingo.tull@gmail.com or calling 718-596-4962. The classes are at 177 Smith Street, which is that new music store that specializes in piano repairs and restoration. They offer private classes as well as ensemble and teach all the instruments you'd need to form an awesome rock band, such as guitar, bass, drums, horns. They also have voice lessons. So, if this interests you, call email, or pop into the music store to find out about enrollment.

Children's Art Classes

We were very excited to learn that Muriel Guepin Gallery has art classes for children. We love this gallery and after picking up a brochure and browsing it we found that the classes they are offering are just as unique as the gallery itself. These sessions, which include learning different ways to create animals in their animal kingdom class, fantasy art, animation, and a class called "having fun with abstraction" are specialized for certain ages groups. In all, they have classes for 2 year olds to teens. Winter session starts on Jan 9th so enrollment is going on now. You can check out their website here for more classes and info on enrollment.

Old Time Jams at Farmacy

No, we aren't talking about homemade fruit jams, although they have that at Farmacy (513 Henry Street) also and they are delicious. We're talking about you bringing your acoustic guitar, or fiddle or washboard, and hitting some jams with some folks at this old-time jam session. They started back up in November and happen every other Tuesday between 7:30 and 9:30pm. You missed the last one last week which makes the next one December 27th. It's a pretty laid back atmosphere over at Farmacy so you can just show up and play, there's no cover. You can RSVP to alanfriend_music@mindspring.com if you wish. The only thing they ask is that you bring acoustic only. They had no amps in the olden days.

Pub Quiz

With all the eating we've been doing and will continue to do this season, exercise is a good idea. But what about exercising our brains? If you feel like you need to wake your mind up after all that monotonous shopping while listening to "Jingle Bell Rock" for the hundredth time, then head down to Last Exit Bar tonight for their trivia night. With 50 questions, this one is like boot camp for your brain. Plus they have some quirky categories. According to Brooklyn Exposed, you may get categories like " “Last Exit Theater” (hosts perform scenes from movies) “Canadian or Not Canadian?” (decide if celebs like Michael Cera hail from our friend to the north), & Bodega Price is Right (does toilet paper really cost that much?)". Sounds fun right? Well, if you want to go but can't go tonight then you have every 1st and 3rd Monday to make it over there. Last Exit is located at 136 Atlantic and trivia starts at 9pm. $5 bucks to play.

Santa At MikNic!

Hey everyone, Santa going to be at MikNic's tomorrow from 1-4pm! Bring your kids and your cameras!

Holiday Shopping this Weekend!

For those of you who have procrastinated a bit or just haven't been able to find that perfect gift, you are in luck. This weekend, December 17th and 18th between 12 and 6pm, do your last minute shopping at the Brooklyn Craft Central Holiday Market. With 65 designers total, although they will have different vendors each day, you'll be sure to find unique gifts for everyone on your list or even a little something for yourself. Littlefield at 633 Degraw Street in Gowanus will be hosting and it's sure to get crowded, especially since there is no cover, so we'd recommend going early. To quench your thirst or appetite mid-way through all this shopping, or in our case usually as soon as we start, they'll have plenty of drink specials and food truck will be hanging outside as well. So come out, both days if you don't check off all those names the first time around, and support Brooklyn's local artisans!

Potter Fans Party!

Saw this little tidbit on GeekChicNYC this week. On December 17th our favorite spot in Gowanus, The Bell House, will be hosting a Harry Potter Yule Ball. That's right. Harry Potter fans can celebrate the holidays in wizardly style. Nice attire is recommended...wizard robes are optional. It's a whopping 18 bucks to get in but along with all the music you'll be enjoying for those bucks, including Harry and the Potters (photo above) as well as Draco and the Malfoys, there will also be drink specials. Plus, it's the holidays. Tis the season to... spend money on fun themed parties! It starts at 5pm so don't get there too late. Click here to buy tickets in advance.

Steve Wong, DDS PC

Many moons ago, almost a year to be exact, we wrote a blog about a dentist moving to 158 Court street (pictured above). Well, a spring, summer and fall season later it has finally arrived. We walked by recently and noticed the place was set up for business and informative pamphlets were placed outside to introduce Steve Wong, DDS PC. Apparently, although he is new to Court Street, he is not new to the neighborhood as he's practiced at 316 Henry Street for 8 years previous. All in all he's been a practicing dentist for 14 year, 10 of which were spent as an instructor at NYU College of Dentistry. In the pamphlet Wong promises thoroughness with complete oral examinations (including cancer screenings) and short wait times, saying "you'll rarely have to wait more than 5 to 10 minutes". That sounds like good criteria to us. If you need a dentist, check him out 718-625-2828.

GOH Productions Presents...

We've blogged about the puppet theater at 196 Columbia Street before but here's a show At the Clock Works that incorporates every holiday of the season in one spectacular marionette performance. It's called A Christmas Carol, Oy Hanukkah, Merry Kwanzaa, Happy Ramadan and it's being staged by The Czechoslovak-American Marionette Theatre. Tickets are $20 for adults and $12 for children and you can find them on smarttix.com. They say the event is suitable for ages 5-105. Sorry 106 year olds, you didn't make the cut. Show dates, which begin this Thursday, and times are listed below.

Dec 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 27, 27, 28, 29, 30 - 7pm
Dec 17, 18, 24, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, Jan 1st- 4pm

T.A. progress in 2011

We just received an email from T.A., or Transportation Alternatives, which as Wikipedia may put it best is a "non-profit organization in New York City which seeks to change New York City's transportation priorities to encourage and increase non-polluting, quiet, city-friendly travel and decrease private car use". There is a campaign now that promises to match all donations given from now until the end of this year. They also gave us a round-up of everything they have accomplished in 2011. We thought we'd share it with you (below) since it was a great way to highlight some improvements in Brooklyn over the last year that will bring more inspiration for the new year. If you'd like to donate to T.A. you can click here.

In 2011, T.A.'s advocacy in Brooklyn had direct results:

• In the courts and in the streets, the Prospect Park West protected bike lane was challenged by an on-slaught of well-funded NIMBYs -- and we won!
• New bike lanes and pedestrian safety improvements in Cobble Hill, Prospect Heights and at Grand Army Plaza.
• Pedestrian plazas -- in Clinton Hill, Fulton Ferry and East New York -- transformed streets into social space.
• New Play Streets everywhere -- safe spaces for children to play in Bedford-Stuyvesant, East New York, Coney Island and Broadway Triangle.

Holiday Play.

The Heights Players will be performing a holiday treat for children and adults alike on December 10th and 17th. Wenceslas, written by Lindsay Price and directed by Ted Thompson, is a tale about the true meaning of Christmas. Check out more details in the synopsis below. There are two showtimes per day, one at 11AM and one at 1PM, and admission tickets are only $6. The Heights Players is an all volunteer not-for-profit organization and their theater is located at 26 Willow Place in Brooklyn Heights.

Christmas is all about getting … isn’t it? If that is so, then what could Christmas bring someone who has everything? Why Would A King Need Christmas? A tale and some carols to remind all of the meaning of Christmas! Travel back to a simpler time and meet a king who is moping while his queen is coping with holiday preparations. Will a servant struggling to nurse his sick wife help the king to discover a new meaning to Christmas. Told simply and beautifully with liberal dashes of humor!! A tale that will move generous hearts of any age!!

Pet Smart on Atlantic

We walked by the new PetSmart at 238 Atlantic the other day. The place is really huge and was very busy when we passed by. It's good to see a bustling business on this corner as the building had been under development for quite some time. The official opening was on November 7th and none other than Brooklyn Borough President, Marty Markowitz, was there to cut the ribbon. The store at this location is more than just a store. They also have a pet hospital and have pet grooming, training and adoption facilities. On top of pet food and other needs you can purchase s pet there as well. Fish, birds, hamsters, and reptiles to name a few. As we know from other PetSmarts you can take your pet into the store with you as long as they are leashed. So that they can pick out there own dinner, of course. But call to make sure (718) 852-2519. Hours are from 9am-9pm.

"Layer Current" Exhibit

Like the Spice Gallery will be presenting "Layer Current" starting tomorrow as part of Curate NYC and everyone should head over to Williamsburg to check it out. For those of you who haven't heard of Curate NYC it is a juried exhibition that sorts through more than 1500 visual artists living in New York and selects only a talented hand full to show off their work, thus giving them exposure which creates opportunity. It's a pretty big deal. The show is from December 8th- 18th and the gallery is located at 224 Roebling Street. The opening tomorrow is from 6-9pm. A complete list of the featured artists is below.

Christina Massey
Ian Addison Hall
Erik Sommer
Jay Paavonpera
Vadis Turner
MaryKate Maher
Nicholas Horman
Joe Banish
lael marshall
Wayne Adams
Tamiko Kawata
Hannah Mishin
Dana McClure
Mira Alibek
Keira Kotler
Rachel Kohn
Rosemary Taylor

Lars Pasta on Smith Street

Does anyone know anything about this new addition to Atomic Wings called Lars Pasta To go? At 134 Smith Street, Atomic wings has some new signage. As you can see from the photo above it covers half of the original sign so it must be a big part of the business now and not just an addition to the menu. It's a whole different company attached, in fact. We looked them up online and couldn't find much, just that they were incorporated this past September. It does seem like a strange combo wings and pasta, especially pasta that being advertised as "healthy". Mac-n-cheese and wings is understandable. I guess it's like a Pizza Hut/Taco Bell combo. We'll wait and see how it does. If anyone has heard any more news about this place or tried it let us know. We're curious.

Holiday Party in Red Hook

The non-profit community of Red Hook, which includes Falconworks Artists Group, Dance Theatre Etcetera, PortSide New York, The Waterfront Museum, and Red Hook Rise, are all coming together to host one wonderful holiday event. On December 9th between 5 and 8pm join the party and enjoy food, drinks and special performances at Dance Theatre Etcetera (480 Van Brunt St Suite 203, above the Fairway). Admission is free, the only thing you could bring is a toy for the toy drive if possible. It should be a good time. The Realty Collective crew will be there and we hope to see you there too! Click here to RSVP.

Hmmm Thai

So wandering around the neighborhood we noticed this new sign (above) at 278 Smith Street and thought "really, another Thai restaurant?". I mean seriously, do we need another Thai restaurant in the hood? After doing a little research we realized that it's actually the location of Em' Thai and according to menupages have only changed their name to Vip @ Thai. Now, we do support our local businesses and want them very badly to succeed. Does the name change suggest they weren't doing so well? Not sure about the new name though. Although Em' Thai wasn't a great name, Vip @ Thai just seems a little confused. What's up with the special characters? Whatever the name, though, the place gets good reviews and we hear they have really good happy hour specials. Plus the new sign is very cute, much better than the old awning that was just burgundy with a bright yellow E and M'. Let us know if you've been to the new and improved spot!

Story Time at Sweet Melissa's

A restaurant/bakery seems like an unlikely place for a story time but also sounds like a good idea. Today at 3pm (and every Thursday in case this is too short notice) is story time with Anne at Sweet Melissa's on Court Street. It's not only a good idea for them to get customers into the shop but also sounds really nice for the patrons to sit down with tea and cake and listen to some storytelling. The best part is they encourage you to bring your own books so it's a story time that takes requests. They also mention that you can and should bring toys so it's just like a playgroup as well. For moms, dads, and caregivers looking for daytime activities that will get you out of the cold, this is perfect. It's right when school gets out so it might be a madhouse. If anyone has been we'd love to hear how it is. Please share your comments with us!

Santa Meeting

Let the holiday events begin. We've already talked about a tree lighting ceremony and winter festival now here's an interesting event we heard about that's going on this weekend as well. A pancake breakfast with Santa? I'd say if I were a kid that would sound like just about the coolest thing ever. For $10 per person or $30 per family head down to the First Presbyterian Church at 124 Henry Street in Brooklyn Heights for either the first seating at 9:30am or second at 10:30am. Eat pancakes, make crafts and get your picture with Santa. This sounds like a much better option than going to a mall and waiting in line after shopping all day. More relaxing and definitely more delicious. In case you can't see the photo we posted it says that seats are limited so here's the number to call to reserve a spot, 718-624-3770. Ask you're kids if they want to have breakfast with Santa this weekend. They'll probably say yes, unless they are terrified of the jolly bearded fellow like I used to be...then you may want to just wave to him from afar at the tree lighting ceremony on Friday instead.

Winter Festival

It's getting colder towards the end of this week and will be gin to feel a little more wintery. Let's celebrate by eating lots, drinking lots, and dancing! Only for the sake of keeping warm, of course. The most important part to keep warm and cozy is your heart (please excuse the cheese factor). You can keep warm, inside and out, by giving to this charitable cause. The Gowanus Canal Conservancy will be hosting a winter festival on Saturday, December 3rd at 69 9th Street (between 2nd ave and the canal). From 6:30-midnight indulge in a three-course meal, drinks, and live music, and all for a good cause! Tickets for the event and a conservancy membership are $60, event only $40, and concert only (which begins at 9pm) are $15. If you're already a member you can buy up to 10 tickets for a discount of $30 each. Let's help clean up the Gowanus Canal and have fun while doing it!

Christmas Tree Lighting

As we all know, one holiday ends and preparations for another one begin. This is especially so with Christmas. We see it as we enter the stores around the neighborhood and see Christmas decorations being sold and hear "Jingle Bell Rock" pumping out of the speakers. It's time to get in the spirit and you can start by going to a tree lighting ceremony at Carroll Park this Friday, December 2nd (rain date Dec 9th). The festivities begin at 6pm and will include singing carols and, of course lighting the tree. Also, Santa and his elves will be there and their will be free refreshments a gifts for the children. For anyone who's been to this annual event, you know that the kids really love it and it's good times for all. The forecast is looking good as well so it should be a beautiful night for a tree lighting!

Small Biz Saturday!

Okay, we're all stuffed from gorging ourselves turkey dinner yesterday and leftovers today. It's Black Friday and time to shop it off right? We say wait until tomorrow! Small Business Saturday. Rest off that meal today and get ready to support our local small businesses tomorrow. We know you don't need more incentive to shop at the awesome boutiques and shops in the hood but here is some anyways. Amex has a promotion going on for tomorrow only. Spend $25 or more at any independently owned business and they will credit you $25 on your account, which you should receive at some point next week. This goes for any small business, including restaurants. All you need to do is register here or go to the American Express facebook page and sign up there. So, forget hitting the big department stores today. Sit down, have some more pie, and relax. Tomorrow is go time!

Sadie's Kitchen Once More.

(photo taken from bococaland)

Okay, I know we've written a couple of blogs about this new restaurant already but we've finally gotten a chance to visit and taste and the verdict is a delicious one. We like to keep you updated so hear it is. Yes, the menu is mostly mac-n-cheese but the variety is incredible. From shitaki mac with brie and truffle bread crumbs to buttered lobster mac with fontina and herb bread crumbs to kielbasa and gorgonzola mac with brussel sprouts. Everything sounds unique and extremely mouth-watering. It doesn't disappoint either. They do have a handful of equally unique biscuit sandwiches if the former isn't up your alley. Fried catfish, jalapeno jack, slaw and pickled okra tartar is one. Another is made with bbq duck, spicy plum sauce, arugula and brinjal chutney. Anyways, we can list off the whole menu but you can just pick one up for yourself. We're making ourselves too hungry with all these descriptions anyways. They started delivery service at the beginning of the week so if need to change things up with your delivery repatoire this is a good option. Mac keeps well when traveling. Oh, we almost forgot the pies! Shoo fly, pumpkin spice, and more for $20 each. You may still be able to order one or two for tomorrow. Check them out.

Deals in the hood.

We wanted to let you guys in a a couple of internet (a la groupon) deals going on in the neighborhood. We can we say. We like to pass on the savings.

Amazon local is offering a $25 credit for only $10 for Verde restaurant on Smith Street. That's 60% off. If you've never been to this Italian restaurant then buying this coupon would be a great way to check them out for the first time. Make sure you read the rules before buying. They are the usual "dine-in only" and "only one per customer" type stuff. Also, you only have until the end of today to secure this deal so get on it.

One of our favorites has a deal going on with NYC Downtown through Google offers. Buy an meal worth $50 at Alma for $25 on this site. You can spend it on food and drinks, and use it between November 24th and May 21st. Again you only have a short time (about 2 days) to buy this deal so check it out if you're interested.

We love our neighborhood restaurants and we love deals!

Top Five for Thanksgiving Shopping

We've put together a list of the top five (in our humble opinion) places to buy food for the Thanksgiving holiday. Whether you're cooking the whole meal or need to bring some nice snacks to someones home who you're celebrating with here's where you can go.

Stinky Bklyn- Since they're expansion they have twice as much room to house twice as many delicious cheeses, meats, and other gourmet treats. They also have free-range antibiotic and hormone-free turkeys ranging in weight from 12-24 pounds from Stonewood & Misty Knoll Farms in Vermont. Call to see if they have any Turkeys available (they go quick). This is the perfect place to pick up an appetizer for a party.

Fairway- Of course this is on our list. They pretty much have everything you may need. May be crowded and hectic but you'll find what you're looking for.

Court Street Grocers- They had Turkeys but the deadline has passed. Who knows though give them a call. Also though, like Stinky they have a lot of delicious treats to bring if you're attending as a guest...including pies!!!!

Sadie's Kitchen- Although we have yet to check this place out we've been hearing good things. They are on our list for one reason alone...well a few. Pies, pies, pies! They have pecan, sweet potato and other southern and Thanksgiving-friendly pies. Call ahead to see if you can order one or two or several!

American Beer Distributing and Thrifty Beverage Center at 256 Court Street- Now there are so many wonderful wine stores we could have included but decided that this place might be the best for this occasion. They have wine and beer (and a giant selection) but they also have a huge selection of soft drinks in case you have kids or non-drinkers attending that might like something special to drink for the holiday.

Well, there it is. Now get out there and shop away!

Caselnova, Now serving Brunch!

Our favorite neighborhood Trattoria, Caselnova, has just started serving brunch. The first day they opened for brunch was last Sunday. Along with some traditionals, like Eggs Benedict, they have an Italian twist on breakfast by serving things such as breakfast pizzas and Italian (instead of French) toast. All of this comes with a complimentary cocktail. Being right near our Columbia Waterfront office, the restaurant is at 215 Columbia, we order from there all the time and can vouch for the tasty food (especially the pizza, which you can see in a small photo below). They're playing Monday night football, as well, and they also have weekly specials, such as 1/2 price bottles of wine on Wednesdays. Last we looked kids ate free on Tuesdays and Mondays were 2 for 1 pizza nights. Check in with them on that as it may have changed. You can follow them here on facebook for more daily specials. So, if you haven't checked this place out yet you should. And definitely keep them on your brunch list.

Sadie's Kitchen now open!

Blogs across the web are and have been a buzz about the opening of this new restaurant, Sadie's Kitchen at 243 Degraw, which was scheduled to open Monday! Between reading through all the other blogs and articles, including a sweet spread they got last week in the NY Times Diner's Journal, and walking by and peeking in the windows ourselves, here's what we've found out. Like we suspected from the name and decor, it's a southern comfort food menu. Mac and Cheese is a big item on the menu and they'll serve it plain or dressed up with other ingredients. Biscuit sandwiches will also be on the menu, which seems to be very affordable ($7 for the plain mac and $8 for the sandwiches), and, of course pies pies and more pies!!! Since the space is so small they plan on doing more take-out business than anything else, but the inside is so inviting with a 30's retro diner look that I can't imagine people won't want to go in and soak up that atmosphere. If you've tried it already we'd love to hear a review! We're definitely going to try it soon ourselves. We're ready to be comforted!

New Music Store

A piano music store just opened up at 177 Smith Street. For anyone in the neighborhood who owns a piano or has just glanced in a window and caught sight of a beautiful grand piano while strolling through Cobble Hill, you know that a store that sells and refurbishes pianos should do pretty well in this area. Big Wrench Piano Care will hopefully thrive. If you walk by and look in the window of this new music store you'll see pianos of all shapes and sizes. It's Registered Piano Technician, or RPT, is a Brian Whiton. He's got a pretty good resume from the looks of the website. He "commenced the study of the art and trade of piano tuning and repair in Minnesota at the Steinway and Sons retail giant Schmitt Music. Since moving to Brooklyn in 2001, he has worked with several of the finest piano rebuilders and tuners in New York City.

But mainly he has a passion for what he does. "Like all successful tuner-technicians, I have a deep love for the instrument," Brian quotes. "I realize I'm fortunate to make a living in an interesting and challenging field." So if you're in the market for buying, need a tune up or repair, this place is for you.

Book Release Party

Ok all you Red Hookers..um Red Hookians? Whatever the correct term is. It's time to show your Red Hook pride by coming out this Thursday, November 17th at 7pm for a book release party of "Here in Red Hook". It's a photography book by Andy Vernon-Jones about the things that make Red Hook. According to the bio,"the book is composed of photos taken in the streets, alleys and abandoned lots of the Brooklyn neighborhood of Red Hook and combine a documentary approach with an art-photography sensibility. The photos express the beauty and struggle of life in Red Hook. Many of the portraits are of young people who are at the cusp of adulthood; their gazes show their toughness and their hope for the future. " The party will be held at the Lucky Gallery, 360 Van Brunt Street (between Sulivan and Wolcott) and there will be food and drinks from local establishments. Baked, Breuckelen Distilling, The Brooklyn Ice House, Esser Vineyards, The Good Fork, Kevins, Sixpoint Brewery, and Steve's Key Lime Pies will all be providing refreshments. With a list like that how could you not come hang? See you there!

Red Hook DOT meeting

A lot is being talked about for improving transportation and walking paths for getting in and out of Red Hook and you should be part of the discussion if it affects you. On November 17th there will be a CB6 Transportation Committee meeting at 6:30pm at a location TBD – check for updates at www.brooklyncb6.org/calendar/. Among topics discussed will be enhancing the pedestrian environment (details below) and the B61 bus. Here are some of the proposals:

An enhanced crossing at Clinton Street, improvements to the W 9th Street median under the Gowanus Expressway, and a new signalized pedestrian crossing at Mill Street will make access on foot to the subway system easier and safer for Red Hook residents. In addition we have completed a study of a proposed new intersection at Mill Street/Garnet Street and Hamilton Avenue and determined that there would be local bus travel times savings of 25-50% and no major negative traffic impacts. We believe this project will not only improve transit but also help to knit together the neighborhood’s pedestrian, bicycle, and automobile transportation network.

Be there to keep informed and put in your two cents.

Pedagogy Musical

Falconworks Artists Group will be performing a special work-in-progress presentation of Pedagogy of the Oppressed - The Musical this weekend, November 11th, 12th and 13th. The Friday show will begin at 7PM and Saturday and Sunday's will be at 3PM. Admission is pay-as-you-wish and since the space is pretty cozy (Cora Dance Studio, 201 Richards Street in the Red Hook Studios building, buzzer #15) you should probably make a reservation, whihc are required, as soon as possible by clinking here http://pedagogymusical.eventbrite.com/. Come out and support them! More info about the show is below.

Based on the famous work by Brazilian educator Paulo Freire this original work which features music by Alex Hills and dramaturgy by Virginia Vitzthum, dramatizes the experience in public schools and the moments that influence our ideas about education. The performance will be facilitated by Reg Flowers and features Matt Behan, Anthony Cowen-Wilson, Chris Hammett, Alex Hills, Olivia Hockenberry, Alys Lugo and Virginia Vitzthum.

Tiny Rhino

We came across this very interesting sounding event the other day. We hadn't been to the Brooklyn Lyceum in a while and were wondering what's going on there. For those of you who don't know what the Brooklyn Lyceum is you may have passed it before. It's the building on 4th Avenue between Union and President that stands out more than any other building in the area. It's been around since 1910, when it opened as a bath house, and now it hosts events from art shows, to plays, to craft fairs. It's a really cool place and you should check it out if you haven't already.

Anyways, the event that we saw on the website that really stood out is called Tiny Rhino. It's a series of plays, six in total, with five dramatic elements. And here's the interesting part. Whenever one of the five elements show up throughout the six plays the audience has to take a sip of their beer. Yes, it's a drinking game! Now the bit that made us really intrigued and actually want to attend was this little blurb we spotted on their website. "Leave the mindless boozing to the frat boys - we're artists and therefore sadists by definition. Fair warning: these plays will venture down a darker path than your average drinking game."

So, if this sounds like a fun thing to do on a Monday night, join them November 14th or December 12th at 8PM, pay $10 at the door and sip away!

Art and Cake!

What a delicious combination! Art plus cake equals happiness. Are we right? This Saturday, November 12th, between 2pm and 4pm you can enjoy both. The Kentler International Drawing Space, located at 353 Van Brunt Street, is having it's 21st birthday and you're invited. It's $15 at the door for adults and $5 for kids. And it's all for a good cause. He's a little about that that we pulled off of their website.

Kentler International Drawing Space, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization dedicated to bringing contemporary drawings and works on paper by emerging and under-recognized national and international artists to the public; and to providing artists the opportunity to experiment, explore and expand the definition of art in society.

Programs: Exhibitions and events, The Kentler Flatfiles, K.I.D.S. Art Education

So come and enjoy some lovely art and specialty cakes made by Red Hook's favorite sweet stop, Baked!

Char 4 contest

So, we here about these Char 4 events all the time via email. They have a lot going on over there. We've posted about them in the past, although it's been a while, so we usually just read them but don't normally consider sharing. This last subject really caught our eyes though and we had to share. Our inbox read "Drink Turkey Win a Smoked Thanksgiving Turkey". Hmmm. Visions of some roasted turkey concoction danced through our heads for a moment but then we came to our senses. Char 4 is a whiskey/bourbon bar so, of course they're talking about Wild Turkey Whiskey. Yet the whole "Win a Smoked Thanksgiving Turkey" was still intriguing, so we checked it out. Apparently every 1oz and 2oz tasting of Wild Turkey Rare Breed that you order at Char 4 between now and November 18th will count as one entry into a contest to win a 14lb house-smoked turkey. Your Thanksgiving can be the tastiest, not to mention easiest, ever this year if you won. Your order will also get you a 20% off discount to buy a bottle of the same whiskey at Smith and Vine. So, if this contest interests you and you've got a taste for whiskey head down there. You can enter as many times as you want just make sure you "enter" responsibly.

Bake Sale Tomorrow Morning!

PS 29 is having a bake sale tomorrow between 6:15AM and 9PM. So, this being election day, if you were planning on and are zoned to go down there to vote you may want to pick up some brownies or cookies to help support the elementary school while you're at it. Even if you're not zoned to vote there...hey, it's baked goods! What other excuse do you need to take a walk over there? PS 29 is located on Henry Street on the corner of Kane and the bake sale will be going on in the lobby. Come on come all. Bring your friends and bring your sweet teeth!

New Yoga Studio on Smith

At 229 Smith street, a pretty hard to miss awning has gone up to announce to coming of a new yoga studio. It's Prana Power Yoga and they have studio's through Massachusetts and New York. They even have a restaurant in Newton, MA. Could one be coming to Brooklyn also?

The Prana Power Yoga studio offers many types of classes, from all levels classes, to mommy and me yoga, to something called power hour. Some are in heated studio. You've heard of these sweaty and challenging classes and now you can try them for yourself. If this interests you go to their website to find out more about pricing and schedules.

BK Swappers get your tickets!

BK Swappers will be swapping in the neighborhood yet again come November 20th. 61 local is the perfect venue for this event, which will take place between 4pm and 7pm. Not only does the "keep things local" message match up with that of the swappers, but the space itself is large with big long tables. Perfect for displaying your baked goods or other treats you brought along to swap. I'm sure the swappers are happy to be back there. As you may already know, or may not, the event is free but you have to get tickets and they go quickly. In fact, all the spots are already gone. So why am I blogging about this you ask? Well I noticed that the waiting list is still open and saw this footnote on eventbrite. "(A note about cancellations and the waiting list: If you don't land a spot and wind up on the waiting list, have no fear—people always cancel and most folks on the waiting list end up getting in)". So, there you go. You not only still have a chance of getting a spot, it's actually very probable. Get on it! Go to this link to sign up and swap your heart away (not literally of course).

Greenway Party at Alma

The Brooklyn Greenway Initiative will be having a "Rooftop Reception" in support of the Brooklyn Waterfront Greenway. The party will take place on Monday, November 7th from 6:30pm-9:30pm at one Columbia Waterfront's favorite restaurants, Alma (187 Columbia at the corner of Degraw). What to expect. Well drinks, mingling with members of the community, delicious food, of course, and great views. If you've never been on Alma's rooftop you need to check it out. It's got a great view of the Manhattan skyline. Also, you'll get a sneak peek of the plans for Columbia Waterfront Park. Everyone else will have to wait until the mid-November meeting to see the conceptual design rendering for the future site. Sponsors of the event are Alma Viva Restaurant, Brooklyn Brewery, Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pies and Waterfront Wines & Spirits. Click here for more info and tickets.

Post Halloween Post

If you've got kids one thing you'll need to think about after all those sugary treats they consumed this weekend and yesterday (and probably days and days to come) is getting them to a dentist. If you don't already have a family or pediatric dentist you may want to look into this new pediatric dentist we spotted a few months ago located in Brooklyn Heights. The office is beautiful, they have a playroom as well as a waiting area and the treatment rooms don't look like your normal sterile and scary dental rooms. They are colorful and kid-friendly. Their approach seems just as welcoming as the atmosphere. Here's a quote from their website.

Our goal is to make the children feel the gentleness, encouragement, affection and understanding during their visits. with this in mind, our treatment methods are often fun and relaxed.

That sounds like a refeshing change from your average experience at the dentist. The office is located at 148 Atlantic Avenue. Check them out!

BAMboo!

Ok, we thought we'd fit in one more Halloween event before the holiday of all holidays is only a faint memory hidden within the headache of one major candy crash. Our other events we posted about were mostly on Friday and Sunday but this one is today, between 4pm and 7pm! Celebrating Halloween on Halloween?! How novel! BAMboo is a free event located in front of BAM (Lafeyette between Ashland Pl and St Felix St) and features live music, roaming entertainers, a puppet show, games, costume contests and candy giveaways! Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill are amazing places to go trick or treating today, but if you wanted to change it up but weren't sure how, BAMboo is a great option to check out. If anyone decides to fore-go the Cobble Hill Park Parade and venture out to Ft. Greene, let us know how it was!

Pok Pok comes to Columbia Street

Leases have been signed and we could not be more excited that Pok Pok is coming to the Columbia Waterfront and taking over the old 5Burro space.  It is a great addition to the already thriving area! We can not wait to eat some wings in their backyard!

https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10150904613840096&id=196974325095

Check out the grub here:

http://www.pokpokpdx.com/

theoconnellorg :

Newest addition to Columbia St. thanks to @realtycollectiv - Pok Pok is going to New York City! We have... fb.me/x1rQnzlb

Halloween is coming!!! Part 4

Our last blog about Halloween events is here and we have a very kid-friendly event that sounds like a lot of fun. It's the Families First Halloween Party (250 Baltic Street) and it's on Sunday, October 30th from 9:30AM-12:30 pm, so if you went to a spooky late-night party the night before this one is not for you. For all you other folks who don't have the luxury of sleeping in because your alarm clock, which is one or more children jumping on you, will be going off well before this party starts, it should be a fun time. $10 per family or $8 for members will get you in. And once you're there you and the kids can partake in pumpkin decorating, halloween-themed crafts, on-the-spot photos of your costumed child (which you can take home for $10). They will also have snacks, goodie bags, and sing-along/story time. Please RSVP at 718-237-1862 or info@familiesfirstbrooklyn.org.

We hoped we helped give you some ideas for what to do this weekend. Have fun everyone and Happy Halloween!!!!!!!

Halloween is coming!!! Part 3

It's so much fun to go out and celebrate Halloween by attending a party. Halloween parties are always the most unique and exciting parties and we always have a great time when we go. What's better than having a great time? Feeling fulfilled and giving to the community at the same time. Here's a piece from a newsletter we receive about a worthy cause that should also be a fun activity!

Sean Casey Animal Rescue Howlloween Howl Block Bark

Sunday October 30, 2011 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Sean Casey Animal Rescue
153 E. 3rd St.
Brooklyn, NY 11218

Sean Casey Animal Rescue is having our 4th Annual Howlloween Howl Block Bark to raise desperately needed funds to finish the completion of our second rescue shelter facility which will enable us to save up to 5000 animals in 2012. By supporting and donating to Sean Casey Animal Rescue, you will help us finish the construction of a second rescue shelter and you will be directly responsible for assisting in potentially rescuing and saving an additional 100 animals a month. We really look forward to seeing you at the Howlloween Howl Block Bark Partyand thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Big hugz and kisses from all of us at Sean Casey Animal Rescue!!! xoxoxo

Get more information

Register Now!

I can't make it

For a $10 donation, you will be given a new, redesigned SCAR rescue bracelet.

For a $25 donation, you will be a SCAR t-shirt.

For a$30 donation, you will be provided with a new, redesigned SCAR rescue bracelet & a SCAR t-shirt.

Haloween is coming!!! Part 2

What do you think of when you think of Halloween? Although it used to be "candy, candy, candy!!!" for most, now it's all about costumes and pumpkins of course! We've got two events below that celebrate those very things.

Halloween Costume Contest: Sponsored by Red Hook Food Vendors - at the Red Hook Ball Fields, Bay St and Clinton St; Sun, Oct 30, Contest starts at 4pm, but come early! Prize categories for children and adults. Costumes judged on originality and creativity. More info: www.redhookfoodvendors.com

Pumpkin Carving Party at Lilla Cafe, 126 Union Street. October 30th from 11AM-2PM. $12 per carver. They'll have pumpkin sketching and carving, as well as treats and food. Call 718-855-5700 or stop by to register.

Don't miss out on these fun activities. Plan your weekend now!

Haloween is coming!!! Part 1

The rest of this week will be dedicated to the best holiday of the year. Halloween!!! We've got the scoop on events you could attend this weekend that are all happening in and around the neighborhood. We all know about the parade at Cobble Hill Park on Halloween day but there are some more obscure events, and some for adults, that are going on as well.

First up, Grow NYC's Costume Swap This Friday, October 28th, between 3pm and 6pm at 69 9th street in Gowanus. This is exactly what it sounds like. A swap. Bring your gently used costumes and accessories to donate or swap. A great way to save money this year and recycle costumes as well. There will also be games, movies, music, face painting, and a haunted house (all spooky of course but also family-friendly).

Next we have the Halloween HIV Awareness Party: An HIV testing event for young adults (18-24), hosted by Red Hook Initiative. With live DJ spinning new music and classics. Give-aways and prizes. 767 Hicks St, Fri, Oct 28. Free.