Batcheller Mansion in Saratoga Springs lends a phantasmagoric touch to the skyline. The Saratoga skyline, I might point out, is no taller than the four storey line. The minaret meets this skybound boundary.
The interesting building was designed by Albany architects, Nicols and Halcott, in 1873. Its Victorian and eccentric details are preserved by the nine room b-and-b standing on Circular Drive.
Burt and I took a trip to Saratoga some 34 or 35 years ago. The train ride was paid for by a voucher from Amtrak.
The city, as I recall, was very lovely. I wanted to revisit, not simply out of nostalgia, but to explore a bit. I’d like to see more of its charms.
This week, I shall.
Having recently had a speakeasy experience, I am alert to hidden bars.
Having your name over the door technically disqualifies you or rather your joint as a speakeasy!
All of these are technically not secret enough to be speaks, but they harbor a mystery.
Back alleys, belowstairs steps and small doors are also mysterious. Enough for me.
If you live on the UES, come support our community at the 10th Anniversary Gala of PS109 El Barrio Artspace.
This milestone Gala brings together the artists, neighbors, and supporters who helped shape El Barrio’s Artspace into a vibrant hub of artistic expression. Like every milestone, 10 years down, is the beginning of the next 10 years.
At the Gala, you will experience a curated group exhibition that showcases standout works by standout artists from the past decade, live performances by our in-house talent, a one-of-a-kind art auction featuring original pieces, dinner, drinks and a festive after-party to close out the night.
The funds raised support the next generation of artists in El Barrio. If you’ve been here before, it’s a heartfelt tribute to our shared journey. If you’re just joining us it’s a toast to the creativity past, present and yet to come.
Welcome.
If you have any questions please email info@illustriousevent.com.
For single tickets or a table, click here.
Did I… oh, yes, of course I did. You know I like my greens.
The city is now home to several eateries that give priority to those of us who eat our veggies, who prefer vegetables over other dinner choices.
Le Botaniste offers plant-based gourmet dining in a cute, if not gourmet setting. A good choice for a meal, and the one I made with my gal-bud D yesterday before seeing Gene & Gilda.
There is a hidden gem in Spanish Harlem that offers a peaceful cultural experience or rather experiences. It is rare and not as well-known as it justly deserves.
I apologize for the musical oldies reference. PS109 ArtSpace is at the edge of El Barrio. It provides housing for artists, and studio spaces, as well as Salsa nights and art shows. It is gorgeous. It is pristine.
PS109 offers enough events to invite us, [you and me, everyone], to visit often.
Today, I made a repeat visit with my friend the artist LM, [we go to art venues together] with a crew of another group of adventurers.
We were given a full tour of the galleries and other public spaces. Our friend F planned a return tonight with his wife to see a play in the little blackbox theater.
We went off to dine nearby on the recommendation of Rolinda Ramos, the director of PS109 ArtSpace El Barrio.
This is the 10th anniversary of PS109, located at 215 E 99th St, which gives you the excuse to drop by at least 10 times this year.
This is where you want to go, to El Barrio P.S. 109. Believe me, it really is.
The Artspace has gallery spaces, studios for artists and residences under the NYC Connect lottery program.
There are programs of dance and theater, for poets, writers and Women’s History Month, as well as gallery art shows at El Barrio’s PS 109 Artspace.
For example, this coming week, April 9th, at 7:30pm enjoy Cuba loves Puerto Rico, a dance party organized by Gerardo Cortino. Join a poetry workshop led by Bill Keys on Tuesday nights. An exhibit of Women’s Street Photographers opens on April 10th from 6pm.
This unique community space is located at 215 East 99th Street.
All The Best