Baltimore21201.Com - The Blog

Hurricane Sandy soon to arrive, MTA hasn't updated site since Friday

MTA website, Sunday 10.28.2012, 1PM

The Maryland Transit Administration can't update it's online escalator / elevator outage information on a daily basis. I don't know why I should be surprised by their lack of public transportation information about a storm that will affect thousands tomorrow. Good luck, Baltimore riders.

Ricky Nelson sang 'I'm a Travelin' Man' and it sounded kind of cool. The reality is...

Way back when I was a little kid, this is the song that I based my grand ideas of traveling on—turns out it was an ill advised long-term concept.

 
Ricky Nelson, "Travelin' Man"

For me in one week: BWI to LAX, LAX to BWI, BWI to Owings Mills and Owings Mills to Baltimore (3 round trips), Baltimore Penn Station to DC Union Station and back (2 round trips) — It's beginning to look like this to my tired eyes. Travel today, air and rail.

 
A 30-second 'Brockel-Film' 

I'm happy to be back in Baltimore—I'm glad to be home. And, with a little sleep I'll be seeing things in Technicolor once again.

Approaching New Carrollton, a BrockelPhoto

Oh yes, and to the TSA agent at Los Angeles International who approached me after I went through the hands-up-scanner—the agent who looked all kinds of ominous, menacing, gruff, and said, "Step over here, sir. I need to see what you've got in your pants—I apologize for looking shell-shocked, then a bit smug and pleased, and then resigned when you only wanted to see my wallet.

3 fun trips in 30 days — I'll be visiting Norman, Ted, and Christopher.

Travel begins later today with my trip to visit Norman in Los Angeles. Next up, the following week, is my trip to Washington, DC to visit Ted for a couple of days. To wrap-up this seemingly manly-man-focused tour, I'm traveling to New York for a face-to-face (or face-to-toe) visit with Christopher.

I can't think of a better run of travel. I'll be visiting with lots of old friends, listening to lots of really smart people, and observing one guy who's a little, well rigid.

Here are venues and a bit about the events:

First up, Norman.

Norman Lear, the man who showed me how to write honestly

There's a little get-together on the 54th floor of the Los Angeles City Club Saturday night. Quite a few of the core Tandem Productions, TAT Communications, and Embassy Communications associates will be together once again—after roughly 35 years—with our leader and our inspiration. Sharing stories, hugging, and telling each other how good we look, and how we haven't changed, it will be wonderful, and as Jacob reminds me, it will be my personal, very real exploration of Stephen Sondheim's Follies).

It will also be a bittersweet reunion for me. Many of my dear friends won't be there. Bea Arthur, Sherman Hemsley, Evelyn Robbins and her sister Rose, Carrol O'Connor—the list is long, growing longer. However, the wonderful stories about all of those folks live on and will be told. Over and over and over.

Then, Ted, my second go-see:

44 Speakers — 1 Theme. Be Fearless.

T. Rowe Price is sending me to TEDxMidAtlantic on October 26th and 27th. I will do my best to absorbe 'fearless thoughts' from speakers like Colin Powell, Alec Ross, Barbara Van Dahlen, Sylvia Barcellos. I will return to Baltimore and attempt to share the experience and the over-arching take-away with my colleagues, my fellow writers and designers.

And, finally. Christopher.

Christopher Columbus — yes, I'm going there.

Tatzu Nishi (Nagoya, Japan) is known internationally for his temporary works of art that transform our experience of monuments, statues, and architectural details. His installations give the public intimate access to aspects of our urban environment and at the same time radically alter our perceptions. For his first public project in the United States, Nishi has chosen to focus on the historic statue of Christopher Columbus.

The marble statue, which rises to more than 75 feet atop a granite column, was designed by the Italian sculptor Gaetano Russo. It was unveiled in 1892 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus’s first voyage to the Americas. Despite its prominent public location, the statue itself is little known, visible only as a silhouette against the sky or at a distance from surrounding buildings.

Nishi’s project re-imagines the colossal 13-foot-tall statue of Columbus standing in a fully furnished, modern living room. Featuring tables, chairs, couch, rug, and flat-screen television, the décor reflects the artist’s interpretation of contemporary New York style. He even designed wallpaper inspired by memories of American popular culture, having watched Hollywood movies and television as a child in Japan. Discovering Columbus offers both a unique perspective on a historical monument and a surreal experience of the sculpture in a new context. Allowing us to take a journey up six flights of stairs to a fictional living room, Tatzu Nishi invites us to discover for ourselves where the imagination may lead.

About the Monument
Erected in 1892, this monument was designed by the Italian artist Gaetano Russo to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Columbus’ first voyage to the Americas. Atop the monument is a larger-than-life marble statue of explorer Christopher Columbus, who surveys the City from his perch some 75 feet above the street. He stands on a granite column featuring bronze ships’ prows and anchors that refer to his famous voyage with the Niña, the Pinta, and the Santa Maria. Supporting the column is a base adorned with bas relief plaques portraying Columbus’s journey in addition to an American bald eagle, and an allegorical figure titled the “Genius of Discovery.” The monument was sponsored by Il Progresso Italo-Americano, a New York City-based Italian-language newspaper.

The monument is located in the center of Columbus Circle at the intersection of Eighth Avenue, Broadway, Central Park South (West 59 Street), and Central Park West. It is the point from which all official distances from New York City are measured.

For more information on these monuments or Central Park, please visit http://www.nycgovparks.org or http://www.centralparknyc.org. 

Conservation
In conjunction with Tatzu Nishi: Discovering Columbus, Public Art Fund will oversee the conservation of the Columbus Monument in cooperation with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.

In 2005 Columbus Circle was improved with the goal of making it a more hospitable destination for visitors. The roadways were reconfigured and the pedestrian walkways and crosswalks enhanced. Surrounding the monument, a new granite plaza was installed with specially designed benches and rimmed with seasonal planting beds, to create an oasis in the middle of the Circle. The interior fountain was removed, permitting seating at the base of the monument, and was replaced with perimeter fountains that soften the sounds of this busy crossroads.

The monument was unveiled in 1892, and in the hundred years since, its marble and original materials have been ravaged by time, weather, and other factors. The current conservation includes cleaning and pointing of granite and marble features, stone repair and consolidation, and bronze surface treatment.

Coming to DC's Gibson Guitar Showroom: The 9 Songwriter Series, 2012

The 9 - Poster

The 2012 9 Songwriter Series will present a show in the Washington, DC Gibson Guitar Showroom on Wednesday, July 25th. This special show will feature nine singer-songwriters considered among the most elite and talented in the DC area. The show is the second of a monthly residency at the renowned showroom.

Port City Brewing Company and Tito's Vodka—the show sponsors—will be supplying drinks for attendees.

 

9 Series creator Justin Trawick is pleased to bring his show to the Gibson showroom, a special venue not often open for public shows. “It’s an amazing place, and after growing this series into a national thing, it feels good to do this show. It will be a venue and a night that music fans won’t forget.” Gibson is known worldwide for producing classic models in every major style of fretted instrument, including acoustic and electric guitars, mandolins, and banjos.

The show will also feature Luke Mitchem performing three songs from his unreleased LP—due to drop October 23, 2012. Winter Kissing on Spring is the album title; the work will be the fourth LP in as many years for the prolific singer-songwriter. Mitchem, along with several accomplished musicians, recorded the album at The Great North Sound Society in rural Maine. Luke is also putting the finishing touches on his first novel, titled Tragedy’s Triumph.

Luke Mitchem

Mitchem's soulful, introspective music is a window into this intellectual and talented man. Life’s passions, heartaches dreams and visions vividly come to life through his works—both musical and written. Luke also continues on his solo quest to raise funds for rebuilding Joplin, MO music programs. More information can be found at www.lukemitchem.com.

About The 9 Songwriter Series:

Founded in 2008 by singer/songwriter Justin Trawick, The 9 Songwriter Series is a nationally touring live music showcase. Each installment features nine solo singer-songwriters performing in rotation, providing audiences with a rich, intimate, varied listening experience. To date, over 60 different artists have participated in The 9, at events in DC, Arlington, Bethesda, Baltimore, Annapolis, New York City, Richmond, Charlottesville, Charlotte, and Philadelphia. For information on The 9 Songwriter Series contact Justin Trawick via email: justintrawick@gmail.com

Tickets on sale:
Monday, July 9th at Noon. See www.wearethe9.com for details!

A First Memory of NYC - New Yorker Hotel

My little walk down memory lane is on the New Yorker Hotel's blog. Thanks, New Yorker! For the 1960s hospitality and for the fun. This one's for you:

It was a good time, it was the best time
It was a party, just to be with you
It was a good time, it was the best time
And I believed that I would stay forever
I would stay with you and share the laughter
With never ever a good-bye after
It was a good time, it was the best time
It was a short time, but such a good time 
such a good time — 

Ok, New Yorker, save me a tower room with a Empire State Building view.

Here's the link the the story, my Q&A with the New Yorker.

And, here's a bit of history:

The New Yorker hotel opened in 1930 and was the hospitality marvel of the day. It was the largest hotel NYC with 2,500 rooms. In addition to the many ballrooms, the Art Deco structure had ten private dining "salons," and five large restaurants employing 35 master cooks.

The barber shop was one of the largest in the world with 42 chairs and twenty manicurists.

At any given time at the New Yorker Hotel there were 92 telephone operators on duty and 150 laundry staff washing as many as 350,000 pieces daily.

When initially built the New Yorker Hotel had coal-fired steam boilers and generators sufficient to produce more than 2200 kilowatts of direct current electric power. At the time this was the largest private power plant in the United States. The hotel's own direct current generators were still in use during the Northeast Blackout of 1965.

[I have no affiliation with the hotel. I am, tho, a fan of good people, and great service, and The New Yorker. And, Nikola Tesla lived there for years. Is there any better recommendation?]

Baltimore-Washington SAG Members Get a $600 Discount on NATPE Registration

SAG New Media and NATPE have partnered to provide Screen Actors Guild members a special registration discount to the three-day NATPE Market & Conference, the only American program market serving the worldwide television community.

Held annually, this year's conference will take place at the Fontainebleau Resort in Miami FL, January 23–25.

SAG members get discounted registration by visiting the conference’s registration page and using promo code N12SAG to register for $650. That’s a savings of $600 off the NATPE Event Rate.

 

About SAG New Media

New Media is a multifaceted department within SAG, administering the SAG New Media and Interactive Media Agreements and advising and participating in all aspects of new media as it pertains to all SAG collective bargaining agreements. The Department also provides the Guild and its members valuable insights into the implications of emerging technology.

                                   NATPE Poster, 2012

About NATPE

Celebrating over 40 years of service to the ever-evolving global television industry, NATPE continues to redefine itself and the services it provides to meet the needs of its members. Today’s industry encompasses so much more today than ever before and NATPE has remained flexible in an effort to encourage and support the progress of the industry and all of the platforms it now serves. What has remained constant is NATPE’s commitment to keeping members apprised of the changes occurring daily in the global media environment.

Invitation to Watch the 2012 SAG Awards at the Croatian Embassy in Washington DC

Sounds fun, doesn't it? Not so fast, my friends. I'm not going to save the date for this one.

                     The Embassy of Croatia, Washington DC

I've always been drawn to events that cause me to pull my tuxedo out of the closet, dust off my formal shoes, put a silk in my breast pocket, and walk out the front door—with a song in my heart—feeling like I'm in a Busby Berkley movie. Black tie events are fun. Walking down the street, I hum songs like Puttin' on the Ritz or Breezin' Along with the Breeze. Sadly, I can't carry a tune; Jacob can. After a a minute or two of my torturing his sense of song, he gives me the look that says, "How about we just talk?"

                                       Gold Diggers of 1933

I received an invitation via Screen Actors Guild email and I'm passing it along. It's an invitation to watch the 2012 SAG Awards Broadcast on Washington DC's Embassy Row. You don't have to be a SAG member to attend and you may bring a friend, or many friends. And, the event tickets are offered at a price that everyone can afford.

That all seemed more than a little odd to me, but still...

This year I won't be in the actual broadcast audience at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles on January 29, 2012, but this viewing location looked like, at first blush, a sure bet for a mini-gala and a reason to spend a couple of days in Baltimore's southern suburb. Here's the actual invitation text:

You Are Invited to a Viewing Party and Art Reception

Join host Bruce Olvin McBarnette and other local actors as they watch the live broadcast of the SAG Awards, view artwork, win prizes and meet diplomats.

Enjoy wine, refreshments and the art of physiognomy (face reading) performed by Gail Romiti.

When:
    6-10:30 p.m., Sunday January 29, 2012
Where:
    The Embassy of Croatia
    2343 Massachusetts Ave, NW
    Washington, DC 20008

Suggested Attire:
    Dress for this event is black tie for men and gowns for women.

Cost:
    Tickets are $29 in advance or $39 at the door if space is available.A portion of all art sales will be donated to Sukyo Mahikari, a Japanese spiritual organization funding disaster relief. Voluntary donations are welcome.

Noted in the email from SAG: Please be advised that this is not a SAG-sponsored event. Questions should be directed to event liaison Anne Rosenblatt at arosenblatt@AFTRA.com.

Seeing the $29 per ticket price was the first thing that brought up a red flag. Especially for a Black tie event in DC. The open availability of tickets seemed really strange, I went to the website link in the email and was able to order 10 tickets, 20 tickets, it seemed that any quantity of tickets were available. Hey, just bring a bus-load of folks.

So my friends, if you are tempted to experience this awards show at the Croatian Embassy, I just remind you of the phrase 'due diligence'. Take a look around the internet. Do some online research.

And then you can make an informed decision and even think about hosting your own SAG Awards Party. 

Grab a Seat on the Red Carpet for the 18th Annual SAG Awards

Seats are available to you. Yes, you. Any telvision or film fan (or photographer or bllogger) may bid on bleacher seats right on the Red Carpet.

 
               SAG Awards Coverage courtesy AP 

The Screen Actors Guild Awards online auction to benefit the SAG Foundation is offering Red Carpet Fan Bleacher Seats at www.sagawards.org/auction through Nov. 28th.

The first auction in this year’s series, features 70 seats from which fans can see their favorite stars walk the SAG Awards red carpet, take pictures and request autographs.

New to this year’s Bleacher Seat Auction is the combination of bleacher seat sets with hotel stays, dinners, makeovers, SAG Awards Backstage Tours and more.

Proceeds from the Screen Actors Guild Awards Auctions will benefit the SAG Foundation to help sustain their award winning children's literacy programs: BookPALS (Performing Artists for Literacy in Schools), reading to over 600,000 children monthly in classrooms and hospitals nationwide, and Storyline Online, reaching an average of 2 million views globally each month.

The auction also supports the Foundation's Catastrophic Health Fund and emergency services, the Actors Center, and the video preservation of the creative legacy of professional actors. For additional information, please visit http://www.sagfoundation.org.

About SAG:

Screen Actors Guild is the nation’s largest labor union representing working actors. Established in 1933, SAG has a rich history in the American labor movement, from standing up to studios to break long-term engagement contracts in the 1940s to fighting for artists’ rights amid the digital revolution sweeping the entertainment industry in the 21st century.

With 20 branches nationwide, SAG represents more than 125,000 actors who work in film and digital theatrical motion pictures and television programs, commercials, video games, industrials, Internet and all new media formats.  The Guild exists to enhance actors’ working conditions, compensation and benefits and to be a powerful, unified voice on behalf of artists’ rights. Headquartered in Los Angeles, SAG is a proud affiliate of the AFL-CIO.

A Personal Note to Screen Actors Guild and Paramount Pictures

I'd love to review HUGO - 3D, but when you invite me to a screening in Washington, DC and mention that my reservation, my RSVP, does not guarantee admission, you can pretty much count on me not being there.

You know the invitation that I'm writing about. I received it today; It began this way:

 
Paramount Pictures and
The Washington Film Institute
Invite You And a Guest to a Special Screening

of

Hugo in 3D

When: 7 p.m., Monday, November 21, 2011
Where: Regal Gallery Place 14
701 7th Street NW
Washington, DC 20001

Click HERE [link disabled] to RSVP.

The theater will be open for seating at 6:15 p.m. It is strongly suggested that you arrive early. Screenings are overbooked to compensate for no-shows. A reservation does not guarantee seating.

This invitation is for SAG members and one guest and is non-transferable. Members will be required to show their membership cards and photo ID for admittance. No cameras allowed and no recording permitted. Violation of this prohibition is subject to civil and criminal liabilities.

I'm happy to support the movie, the trailer looks wonderful. And, I'd crawl over broken glass to preview most any Martin Scorsese movie.

 

I just don't RSVP, travel to DC, and attempt to review a film on the "promise" of a reserved seat. I'm sorry, but that's the way it is.

Paley Center - Miracle on 52nd Street: Holiday Highlights from Variety Specials

 

Friday, November 25, 2011
to Saturday, December 31, 2011
12:30 pm ET
New York and Los Angeles

The Paley Center celebrates the holiday season with musical highlights from various specials and weekly variety shows encompassing a sixty-year period, with some of the top stars in the business chiming in on seasonal favorites. Rare clips include The Annie Christmas Show, with the cast of the 1977 Broadway hit; Dolly … A Down Home Country Christmas, from Dolly Parton’s short-lived series; Dinah Shore singing a Christmas song written by Judy Holliday; a tribute to Macy’s by Bob Hope; Leslie Uggams on Holiday Sing Along with Mitch; a number with Robert Morse and the cast of the 1960s musical sitcom That’s Life; and Gene Kelly hoofing with the Carpenters.

FREE for Paley Center Members 
Included with general admission 

Become a Member!  Join us online 
or contact Membership at 212.621.6780.

Programs include:

• The Andy Williams Christmas Special (1967)
• The Carpenters: A Christmas Portrait (1978)
• The Frank Sinatra Show: Happy Holidays with Bing and Frank (1957)

 

• Perry Como: Christmas in England (1985)
• The Judy Garland Show (1963)
• Ford Motor Company Startime: Christmas Startime (1959)
• That’s Life: “’Twas the Week Before Christmas” (1968)
• Vanessa Williams & Friends: Christmas in New York (1996)
• Dolly . . . A Down Home Country Christmas (1987)     
• Desilu Playhouse: The Desilu Revue (1959)
• The Annie Christmas Show (1977)             
• Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas to You (2010)
• A Muppet Family Christmas (1987)     

  

• The John Davidson Christmas Show (1977)
• The Comedy Hour Starring Bob Hope (1950)
• The Dinah Shore Chevy Show (1959
• Holiday Sing Along with Mitch (1961)                 
• The Neil Diamond Christmas Special (1993)    
• Barbra Streisand: A Happening in Central Park (1968)
• Bell System Family Theatre: Bing Crosby’s Christmas Show (1970)
• Julie Andrews … The Sound of Christmas (1987)

 

About the Paley Center for Media:

The Paley Center for Media, with locations in New York and Los Angeles, leads the discussion about the cultural, creative, and social significance of television, radio, and emerging platforms for the professional community and media-interested public.

Watch the 2011 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in a Private Room with 19 Friends

Is this an off-topic post? Naw, Marching Bands and Street Singers are performing artists, too.

Here's the deal, and it's a pretty darn good one.

                         Photo courtesy CharityBuzz Auctions

From CharityBuzz:

Watch the 2011 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in a private party room for 19 of your best friends!

This absolutely stellar location is on the 6th floor of a NY building, overlooking both 6th avenue AND 34th street. Light breakfast, coffee, and orange juice will be served, including an option for heavier catering as well!

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual parade presented by Macy's. The tradition started in 1924, tying it for the second-oldest Thanksgiving parade in the United States with America's Thanksgiving Parade in Detroit.

The three-hour event is held in New York City starting at 9:00 a.m. EST on Thanksgiving Day.

Visit CharityBuzz for terms and conditions.

The projected price for this auction is $5,000 for 20 people. Do the math, $250. per person is not a bad deal. And, don't forget that the package comes with a light breakfast. In New York a glass of orange juice can cost 5-bucks, 7.50 from room service.

Grab your friends and act early. Grab a Bolt Bus and make it a day-trip.

And, the auction sale supports Mercy College.

About Mercy:

Mercy College is dedicated to making a high-quality education attainable offering more than 90 undergraduate and graduate programs within its five schools: Business, Education, Health and Natural Sciences, Liberal Arts, and Social and Behavioral Sciences. The New York metropolitan area college of nearly 10,000 students has five campus locations including: Dobbs Ferry, Bronx, Manhattan, White Plains, and Yorktown Heights and offers more than 25 degree programs online.

Baltimore 21201. The Blog, The Swan Song

That's it for this blog. To quote my favorite broadcast journalist, Edward R Murrow, "Good night and good luck.

To my friends, Keep On Truckin'.

And another auction: Downtown Baltimore Hotel, the Brookshire Suites on Lombard

              Brookshire Suites Hotel, 120 E Lombard, Baltimore

It's a busy month for Alex Cooper as downtown Baltimore properties continure to go on the block, under theeir auctioneer's gavel.

October 3rd 2011 - Brookshire Suites with all furnishings. Here are the details:

ALL THAT fee-simple LOT OF GROUND AND THE IMPROVEMENTS THEREON, if any, situated in Baltimore City, MD known as Tax ID #04-11-0661-008 and more fully described in the Indemnity Deed of Trust and Security Agreement.

REAL PROPERTY

The real property contains approximately 84,591 sq. ft. and is believed to be improved by a 13-story hotel property containing 97 guest rooms, lobby workstation, breakfast dining area, exercise room, guest laundry room and approx. 1,250 sq. ft. of meeting space.

The building also includes laundry facility, administrative offices and fully equipped kitchen.

HOTEL FURNITURE, FIXTURES & EQUIPMENT

Pursuant to that certain Financing Statement by and between MJ Baltimore Hotel Associates Limited Partnership, Debtor and MSCI 2006-HQ10 Brookshire Lodging, LLC, Secured Creditor, recorded among the Financing Statement Records of the Maryland State Department of Assessments and Taxation on August 23, 2006 in ID No. 1000361993585896, Liber U00473, folio 1841, work order #0001281820, original file number 181279624, default having occurred thereunder, the undersigned Secured Creditor will sell at public auction the following:

All that certain tangible and intangible business property & equipment of any nature or description of the hotel business and including, without limitation, any and all furniture, fixtures, equipment, etc. (except for the leased items).

The property and improvements, if any, will be sold in an "AS IS" condition and subject to all conditions, restrictions, existing building and/or environmental violations, covenants, agreements, whether or not of record, affecting or benefitting the same, if any, and with no warranty either expressed or implied as to the description of the condition of the property or improvements. The property will be sold subject to any violation notices and subject to all conditions, restrictions, covenants, encumbrances, rights-of-way, agreements and other matters, whether or not of record, affecting or benefitting the same, if any. Note: The real estate, furniture, fixtures and equipment will be sold as entirety.

Here's the link to Alex Cooper and their auction.

See my posts just below for more on the subject of selling Baltimore's city center.

[To be continued...]

An Invitation to all Baltimore/Washington SAG Members; Act Fast for a Free Lunch

NYC LABOR DAY PARADE is SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2011

Join your fellow SAG Members and march in the official New York City Labor Day Parade this Saturday – September 10th

Start: 09/10/2011 - 9:15am
End: 09/10/2011 - 12:00pm

Meeting Time: Assemble between 9:15 and 9:30. The march begins at 10 a.m.

Where: 44th Street between Madison and 5th Avenues. Look for the SAG sign.

It is no exaggeration to say that the labor movement is under attack. The Labor Day Parade on Saturday, September 10 could be the most important one yet. We aim to show up with the largest possible contingent of SAG, AFTRA, AEA, WGAE and AFM members. Join tens of thousands of our brothers and sisters, neighbors and friends from the entire movement - entertainment and communications unions, construction workers, teachers, the uniformed services, the health care industry, and many more – to send a clear message: we are all in this together.

The SAG NY Host committee will be giving out breakfast gift cards to the first 50 SAG members to arrive. Please bring your SAG card with you to the parade. SAG t-shirts will also be available for the first 50 SAG members to arrive.

Additionally, weather permitting SAG members are invited to join us at a picnic lunch in Central Park following the parade, sponsored by the SAG host committee. You must RSVP by Wednesday, September 7 in order to receive a free boxed lunch. Click here to RSVP. We will assemble near the Heckscher Diamonds on the west side of the park near 65th street. Look for the union banner. In the event of inclement weather please call (212) 827-1417 to check if the picnic will be taking place.

Baltimore Streets Reopening Post Inaugural Labor Day Weekend Grand Prix - Update

Traffic Advisory from the City of Baltimore, Adrienne Barnes and Kathy Chopper:

Downtown Roadways Begin to Reopen after the Baltimore Grand Prix  The Baltimore City Department of Transportation would like to advise motorists that roadways in the downtown area are beginning to reopen after the 2011 Inaugural Baltimore Grand Prix race.

At this time, northbound Russell Street has been opened to motorists from Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to Pratt Street. In addition, southbound Light Street between Pratt Street and Key Highway is also open for travel.

Light Street commuters are advised to use Key Highway to reach Interstate 95. All roadways that were affected by the Grand Prix race are expected to be reopened to traffic by 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 06, 2011.

Commuters will continue to see race walls in the downtown area in the days ahead, but these will only have minimal impacts on downtown traffic. For additional information visit www.gptraffic.com.

[UPDATE 9/5/11 9:40 PM]

Downtown Roadways Ready for
Morning Commute

The Baltimore City Department of Transportation would like to advise motorists that roadways in the downtown area are ready for the morning commute.

After the completion of the 2011 Inaugural Baltimore Grand Prix race, crews have been steadily working to reopen the roadways for Tuesday morning’s commute. At this time, all major roadways that were affected by the Grand Prix race are now open for motorists.

In the days ahead, commuters will continue to see race walls in the downtown area, but these will have only minimal effects on area traffic.

Can't Wait for Baltimore Restaurant Week?

Neither can we. Why not double your pleasure this year? Grab a Bolt Bus or the Amtrak Northeast Regional and head north to Baltimore's largest suburb. NYC's 20th Annual Restaurant Week continues through July 24, 2011 and there are some outstanding deals.

                              NYC Restaurant Week 2011

Lunch is $24.07 and dinner is $35. With over 1,600 restaurants participating you'll have a hard time choosing. Here are a couple of my favorite dinner menus, I've highlighted my choices:

                        Photo Courtesy Artisanal Fromagerie

Artisanal Fromagerie and Bistro
2 Park Avenue (32nd Street)
212.725.8585 

HORS D’OEUVRES, Choice of:

SOUPE DU JOUR
Market Selection
BOSTON BIBB
Parmesan-Black Pepper Dressing, Herbs
SALMON RILLETTES
Fresh & Smoked Salmon, Capers, Dill, Crostini
COUNTRY PATE
Pickled Vegetables, Purple Mustard

PLATS PRINCIPAUX, Choice of:

WILD MUSHROOM RISOTTO
Fava Beans, Black Trufe Butter
SAUTÉED SKATE WING
Blood Orange Grenonloise, Cauliower
MOULES FRITES
Garlic, Tomatoes, Parsley
POULARDE ALBUFERA
Spring Vegetable Fricassée

DESSERTS, Choice of:

CHOCOLATE MARQUISE
Hazelnut Feuilletine, Vanilla Salt
CRÈME BRÛLÉE “LE CIRQUE”
ARTISANAL CHEESECAKE
Pecan Praline, Caramel Sauce
HOUSEMADE ICE CREAMS & SORBET

                             Photo Courtesy Shun Lee West

Shun Lee West
43 West 65th Street
212.595.8895

APPETIZER OR SOUP, Choice of:

Barbeque spare ribs (3)
Steamed or pan-fried dumpling (4)
Grilled scallop (2)
Crispy shrimp ball (2)
Chicken soong*
Hot & sour soup
Shun Lee wonton soup
Sizzling rice soup
(chicken or shrimp)

ENTREE, Choice of:

Heavenly fish filet*
Braised Chilean sea bass in hot bean sauce
Grand Marnier prawns
Lake Tung Ting sliced shrimp*
Chan Do crispy chicken*
Slippery shredded chicken*
Szechuan sliced pork
Beef with asparagus*
Dry shredded crispy beef
Dry sautéed string beans*
Baby eggplant with peppers
Buddha’s delight

DESSERT, Choice of:

Ice cream
Tira mi su
Almond tofu
Fresh pineapple

Now that you've taken your big bites out of the Big Apple, head back to Baltimore, take a deep breath and get ready for the main event...

                             Baltimore Restaurant Week 2011

Lunch is $20.11, Dinner is $35.11. As of today there are 625 restaurants participating and for the most part the menus look outstanding. Baltimore's Restaurant Week runs August 5 - 14. A couple of my picks:

                        Photo Courtesy Sam Holden, City Paper

Tio Pepe
10 E Franklin Street
410.539-4675 

First Course, Choice of: 

GAZPACHO A LA ANDALUZA
The classical Spanish cold soup
GAMBAS AL AJILLO
Shrimp marinated in garlic sauce
ENSALADA PRIMAVERA
Tossed spring salad with vinaigrette sauce 

Second Course, Choice of:

SALMON DE ASTURIAS
Fresh silver salmon, broiled with Bearnaise sauce, or poached with Hollandaise sauce
FILETE DE TILAPIA ALCAZAR
Fillet of tilapia, sauteed with bananas and topped with a delicate Hollandaise sauce
PAELLA A LA VALENCIANA
The traditional Spanish saffron-flavored rice dish, with mussels, shrimp, chorizo, veal, chicken and vegetables
PECHUGA DE POLLO EN PEPITORIA
Chicken breast, sautéed in saffron sauce with almonds and hard-boiled egg
LOMO DE CERDO ADOBADO
Marinated loin of pork, sautéed with onions, green peppers, tomatoes, and mushrooms
TOURNEDOS TIO PEPE
Tournedos of beef tenderloin blended in sherry sauce 

Third Course, Choice of: 

FLAN AL CARAMELO
Cream caramel custard
ARROZ CON LECHE "MEQUIEROCASAR"
Cantabrian rice pudding
BRAZO DE GITANO AL CHOCOLATE
Chocolate roll with whipped cream filling

                             Photo Courtesy Fogo de Chao

Fogo de Chao
600 W Pratt Street
410. 528.9292   

FIRST COURSE, Salad Bar:

The salad bar includes items such as hearts of palm, giant asparagus, fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese, sun dried tomatoes, fresh cut and steamed broccoli, marinated artichoke bottoms, tubule, smoked salmon, an assortment of fine cheeses, and much more.

SECOND COURSE, Entrees:

PICANHA
Our signature cut, this prime part of the sirloin is served seasoned with sea salt or flavored with garlic.
FILET MIGNON
This succulent piece of meat is cut from the tenderloin and seasoned to perfection. Also served wrapped in bacon.
ALCATRA
Cut from the top sirloin this piece of meat is tender and full of flavor.
FRALDINHA
Cut from the bottom sirloin and seasoned to perfection.
BEEF ANCHO
The prime part of the rib eye, beef ancho celebrates the rich flavor and the delectable texture of this elite cut.
CORDEIRO
Fresh, leg of lamb sliced right off the bone. Also served as chops.
PORCO
Tender pork loin encrusted with parmesan cheese. Also served as ribs.
FRANGO
Succulent chicken legs and tender chicken breast medallions wrapped in bacon.
LINGUICA
Robust pork sausages seasoned and slow-roasted to mouth-watering perfection
COSTELA
Tender, juicy beef ribs cooked slowly to preserve their rich natural flavors

SIDE DISHES:
Our traditional Brazilian side dishes include seasoned mashed potatoes, caramelized bananas, crispy polenta and warm cheese bread

THIRD COURSE, Choice of one:

New York Cheesecake
Chocolate Mousse Cake
Key Lime Pie

What's that you say? I didn't highlight my choices on the Fogo list? That's because, according to their website, you get the full experience. Yep, the whole megilla, the whole nine yards, the whole kit and kaboodle. And, I'm thinking it's going to be a fast sell out.

Let us know what's going to be on your plate and... Happy eating everyone! 

The Fantastic Flying Food Court, or...

another reason flying is more fragrant than it used to be.

                                    The Flight to Flatulence 

I read Michelle Higgins' Practical Traveler article, Pack a Picnic for Your Next Flight, in yesterday's New York Times and I winced and sighed a deep, resigned sigh. I like Higgins' Sunday column; I don't like the idea of a picnic on a plane.

I'm not fond of people bringing food - whatever the source - to eat on flights. I don't have a particularly sensitive nose. In fact, I suspect that my sense of smell has actually been ratcheted down a notch or two after years of seasonal allergies. I'm also not a member of the food elite. I love a Sonic Burger or Chinese take-out or a Sabrett Hot Dog as much as anyone.

However.

When I'm in a sealed tube and closely surrounded by you, my fellow travelers, your personal food of choice can't be missed. The combined odors of Taco Bell burritos, a box or two of KFC, bananas, beef and broccoli from Panda Express, warm Krispy Kreme doughnuts, Sbarro's baked ziti, melon salad, and a platter of Long John Silver's fried fish is overwhelming, dizzying and cloying.

It can remain dizzying and cloying in the cabin for the entire flight because, my fellow travelers, you all decide to unpack your provisions and eat at different times. Remember, the fresh air flow in airline cabins isn't what it once was.

And, my fellow travelers, please remember that you're on a plane. You're not on the prowl. If you must wear cologne or perfume or aftershave, please tone it down just a tad. There are few combinations worse than Chanel No 5 and chop suey or CK One Summer and corned beef. Oh yes, Bulgari Black and brisket don't work either.

I say all of this from personal experience. Here's just one example:

Not so long ago I was on a fast-food flight from Las Vegas to Toronto. There was a woman in the seat directly in front of me who brought hard boiled eggs in a Tupperware bowl. She brought a metal salt shaker that sounded like it had rocks in it. The eggs weren't peeled; she cracked and peeled them on the drop-down tray. She smacked one egg down about once every 15 minutes at first, then her pace slowed. After each egg she burped the Tupperware bowl. It was fascinating in an odd way.

That being said, there are some people who can't (or shouldn't) eat eggs or coleslaw or 3-bean salad in public. They don't digest them properly. Those foods don't agree with them; those people get gas.

The woman in front of me was a member of that unfortunate population. It was a very long flight for me and many other folks.

Writing this I thought back - in a Jacques Kelly sort-of-way - to the good old days when airline travel was a wondrous event and many flights bordered on luxurous. I thought back to the grand days of Pan Am and BOAC and printed menus for white tablecloth food service inflight.

                                    Mid-century Pan Am Menu

I don't mind TSA security one iota, nor do I mind the inevitable pat-downs I get. I'm a decent, respectful, friendly, easy-going traveler. However, my fellow travelers, I do wish you'd eat before or after your flight. And, please, skip the eggs and the coleslaw and the beans.

                  BOAC Inflight Food Service in the Days of Yore

It just comes down to this: Even when you fly first class these days, you're not really flying first class.

Be on the Red Carpet at the 17th Annual SAG Awards

Bidding closes on all bleacher seats at the SAG Awards on Monday, January 10th. Bid quick and be there. Usually these kinds of auctions can be a bit pricey. Not this one. These seats are going for very reasonable prices. 

From SAG:

You and 3 of your friends or family will get to sit in the bleacher seats on the Red Carpet at the SAG Awards, January 30, 2011. Be prepared to take fabulous pictures and get amazing autographs! 

The SAG Awards Auctions benefit the SAG Foundation to help make possible the Foundation's public children's literacy programs: BookPALS (Performing Artists for Literacy in Schools) and Storyline Online.

The auction also supports programs providing emergency relief to SAG members in economic distress, video and audio preservation of the creative legacy of SAG members, scholarships for performers and their children, emergency funds for members with catastrophic illnesses and The Actor’s Center. Details are available at www.sagfoundation.org and www.bookpals.net.

All the details are here.

What Do You Do When You Crave a Sabrett?

If you're in Baltimore and you and your friends crave a Sabrett Hot Dog in natural casing, you might try to plan a fun Sabrett-centric party for your buddies.

And, if you're in Baltimore you may be in a for bit of trouble. You may be in for a bit of angst, a bit of tsouris.

 
Here's how the scenario plays out:

1. You ask on Twitter if anyone knows where you can buy Sabrett's in natural casing in the Baltimore area. And a dozen or so friends reply with good suggestions. (And, with great interest in chowing down on a favorite hot dog.)

2. You check out all of their suggestions to no avail. Then you get on the phone with all the nearby supermarket chains: Safeway, SuperFresh, Giant, and yes, even Lion Foods. Over and over you hear, "We don't sell that."

3. Over and over you speak to the meat or deli department manager and ask if they could special order a case. (Not asking for a pack or two, you ask to order a full case.) Over and over you hear, "I'll check our order book and you can call me back in a few days." You follow the manager's instructions and the universal answer, when you call back, is, "If you're calling about the hot dogs, we can't get that".

4. You search online and find that there are a couple of "Buy New York Food" places that deliver Sabrett franks. Then you discover their minimum shipping charge is $80. (Yep, even for a $20 or $30 order of hot dogs, the shipping charge is $80.) That's not going to happen.

5. And on it goes. Then you email Sabrett headquarters and ask what markets sell Sabrett hot dogs in natural casing. A couple of days later you get an email response and a list of three stores in the Baltimore region:

Weis Markets 4126 E Joppa Rd, Nottingham, MD
Weis Markets 9400 Scott Moore Way, Perry Hall, MD
ACME - 2315 Bel Air Rd # C7, Fallston, MD

6. You call the three stores. "We don't carry that and don't special order," is the typical reply.

So you start to realize that your Sabrett Soirée, your evening of frank follies, of wiener wonder, of hot dog hijinks probably isn't going to happen.

And then you start to remember that no matter how perfect the hot dogs are, they never taste better than they do on a chilly winter day fresh from a street cart vendor in mid-town Manhattan. And, nothing follows a Sabrett better than a brown paper bag full of hot roast chestnuts or a hot pretzel with mustard. If you're eating the dogs and the chestnuts and the pretzels at Rockefeller Center while watching the ice skaters and gazing at the Christmas tree, all the better.

Bolt Bus road trip anyone?

Martin Luther King Memorial - Update

A few days ago I received an email from Harry E Johnson, Sr -- Johnson is the President and CEO of the Martin Luther King Memorial Foundation in Washington, DC.

He was writing to let us all know about the new, interactive, online exhibit featuring the "MLK Construction Cam" with a gallery of archived images of the construction site, a dramatic virtual tour designed by their artists and graphic designers, a photo gallery, video testimonials and more.

All combined, this will give you a first-hand look at exactly how much progress the foundation is making, and how beautiful this national memorial to Dr Martin Luther King will all be once it's finished and installed on our National Mall.

While I fully support the MLK Memorial, I wonder why the architectural stand-ins in the virtual tour look like the largest Blue Man Group in the universe.

If you aren't familiar with the MLK Memorial project, you should be. Here's the mission statement and vision:

Mission: To commemorate the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. by leading a collaborative funding, design, and construction process in the creation of a memorial to honor his national and international contributions to world peace through non-violent social change.

Vision: Dr. King championed a movement that draws fully from the deep well of America's potential for freedom, opportunity, and justice. His vision of America is captured in his message of hope and possibility for a future anchored in dignity, sensitivity, and mutual respect; a message that challenges each of us to recognize that America's true strength lies in its diversity of talents. The vision of a memorial in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. is one that captures the essence of his message, a message in which he so eloquently affirms the commanding tenants of the American Dream — Freedom, Democracy and Opportunity for All; a noble quest that gained him the Nobel Peace Prize and one that continues to influence people and societies throughout the world. Upon reflection, we are reminded that Dr. King's lifelong dedication to the idea of achieving human dignity through global relationships of well being has served to instill a broader and deeper sense of duty within each of us— a duty to be both responsible citizens and conscientious stewards of freedom and democracy. 

I know the economy and the times are tough right now. That said, it would be wonderful if you'd consider sending a few dollars to support the project. If you can't, please take some time to learn more about the project and tell your friends. It's important that you do.

Here are the most recent project updates:

• Foundation for the Stone of Hope has been poured,
• The support structure for the inscription wall has been erected,
• The 300 piles to support the Memorial as a whole have been laid,
• In September the Stone of Hope and Mountain of Despair will be on the site,
• Over 200 Cherry Blossom trees are being cultivated, and the foundation plans to dedicate the memorial in late 2011.

Think about what this memorial means... Do what you can to promote it.

And meantime, visit me at my day job:
I'm Baltimore's Copywriter.