They're All Nuts, Alice...They're All Gone

In one of my favorite episodes of The Honeymooners, “Dial J for Janitor,” Ralph assumes a second job as his building’s superintendent. As part of an efficiency program he installs a house phone—a direct line to the janitor—for the tenants. But after getting a couple of calls on it—one from Mrs. Fogarty, who complained that somebody was "taking things" from her "ice box," and another from Mrs. Schwartz, who wondered if she could get Jersey on the house phone—Ralph grumbles to his wife: “They’re all nuts, Alice…they’re all gone!”

This is precisely the way I feel when observing contemporary American politics, with its beyond nutty commander-in-chief—poised to do God knows what in his remaining fifteen months as president, if he makes it that far—taking us to a lower low with each passing day. But then, too, there is the pathetic pandering of the main opposition party, which doesn’t appear to appreciate candidates who actually accomplish things and take thoughtful positions on issues. You know: reasoned stances based on actual facts, practical reality, and long-term feasibility. 

Okay, no more political talk: It’s autumn in New York—a rather nice time of year with comfortable temperatures and foliage to boot. Unfortunately, the season also comes attached to the ratcheting up of leaf blowers. Sadly, these contraptions blow year-round nowadays, but in approximately two weeks time, their full fury will be unleashed around here.

This morning on what was a pleasant and quiet start to Columbus Day, I rested for a moment on a bench in Van Cortlandt Park. However, it turned out to be one too close to Broadway and a nearby apartment building. Too close for comfort, I guess, as I was interrupted by a ubiquitous leaf blower, who cast asunder what was—until then—relative peace and tranquility.

Once upon a time the old Putnam Railroad passed through Van Cortlandt Park. It has since become a nature trail steeped in some controversy. Seems that the powers-that-be have green-lighted paving the thing over.  Apparently, bicyclists are a more potent lobby than garden-variety environmentalists.

Well, the very same powers-that-be recently filled this recurring puddle location with rocks. I suppose they know what they're doing.

Yes, New York City's Department of Parks and Recreation also employs leaf blowers. At the tail-end of my journey today, resting once more on a park bench, I was again blown away. No, not by a leaf blower this go-round but tree trimmers sawing away several yards from me.

Came upon this wreck near the local police precinct. I always hated driving. Can't think of any good reason why. I just did.

If expansion is any barometer, my old alma mater appears to be doing quite well.

My first semester at Manhattan College, in 1980, cost a whopping $1,750 in tuition. That was in fact considered a lot to me and mine back then. I was able to secure a $2,500 student loan for the year, which left me with a $1,000 shortfall to make up. My student loan payments were $77.77/month for a decade or so, which is paid in full with no help from Elizabeth Warren or Bernie Sanders.

Last week I encountered numerous panhandlers on the subway and a never-ending stream of homeless men and women on the streets as I walked from 14th Street to Penn Station.

I carry single dollars and give to as many of them as possible. But my supply just didn't meet the demand. Sad spectacle.

Many businesses in this area were forced out by eminent domain. They tried valiantly to win support, but the powers-that-be weren't too interested in these small potatoes entrepreneurs. Columbia University and its deep pockets drove many long-time businesses away. Doesn't seem fair to me.

Saw this bus yesterday morning: the Alfred Hitchcock Express?

As far as I'm concerned the free can of soda or water is the deal breaker here. So, is it or isn't for students only?

When I was a youth, we were initially told to curb our dogs, then we were asked to both curb and pick-up after our four-legged friends. Not too many people are walking their canines in the streets in the New York City here and now, which explains why these mums are fenced in.

The most exciting little piece of park in New York City can be found in Battery Park City.

Not even any benches to sit on. Like Robinson Crusoe, it's as primitive as can be.

"Those who give up essential liberty, to purchase a little temporary safety, deserve neither liberty nor safety." Ben Franklin said that, which is why he is one-hundred dollar bill caliber.

Really, we have to do a little more than march for climate change action.

One of my favorite TV detectives of the 1970s, Jim Rockford, quite often searched for phone booths while on the highways and byways. He would pull over and make a call, often utilizing the phone book therein. That was then and this is now.

Finally: Can you remember when you toured a strange metropolis without a smartphone? If you really want to see all that the city has to offer, it still can be done.

(Photos from the personal collection of Nicholas Nigro)