Journal 1-4
1. Impression of New York
When I think of New York City, unique, busy, congestion yet interesting comes to mind. I believe New York City has a lot to offer whether it might be education, fun, employment or the opportunity to achieve a piece of the American pie. I have lived in New York State for several years yet I have never taken the time to explore many places. However, I believe that the Gotham class has provided such an opportunity and definitely intend explore and learn much more than what I learn from watching TV or read in the paper. I am excited and can't wait to start this experience.
My initial impression of New York City was on target. It is quite an impressive place where your knowledge can be expanded upon. Education can never be exhausted. The city holds a tremendous wealth of information of its rich history, interesting places, people and things. Every site visited, education, fun and employment was evidenced from park keepers, tour guides, security, etc. I had fun with this experience. I felt like a child in a candy store for a second. I have gained a lot from this experience, learning of the Catskill Aqueduct, Panorama, Andy Warhol, the World's large globe and much more. This experience will be remembered for a long time. I am looking forward to my next experience in the City of New York.
2. Queens
July 2, 2014, was indeed a close call. It was the
first day of my Gotham experience. The class met at the busiest transportation
station in the United States. “It serves 600,000 passengers every day” (NY PP.
29). I arrived there an hour early to avoid being left behind and to my
surprise, it almost happen. I did not realized that Penn Station was such a
massive and busy station. Finally, with the help of another classmate, Kathy, I
found the class huddled by the LIRR station waiting patiently to start the
Gotham experience. Thereafter, my earlier fear of being left behind disappeared
and was jolted into the exploration mode.
First stop, the Fresh Meadow Park in Queens, “the most ethnically diverse county in the United States” (NY pp. 157). This park occupies the space of that of a junk yard in 1939. Presently it housed the World’s Unisphere, the world largest globe which was dedicated to “Peace through Understanding” during the World’s Fair in 1964. During some of my travel on the Grand Central Parkway I admire this oversize globe from a distance and this time I had the privilege to stand at its base and learn of its purpose. Thereafter, we walked over to the Queens Museum that housed the ‘Panorama’, the largest model of NYC introduced in 1964 at the World’s Fair. “It took 3 years and the cost was $672,662.69 to build” (queensmuesum.org).The intricacy of the Panorama blew my mind. It was unbelievable, awesome.
The ‘Museum of the Moving Image’ was the second stop. It was more relaxed and allowed my imagination to go wild, thinking how difficult it must have been to make movies in the 60’s to entertain the population. It must have taken strongly build people to carry or move those heavy iron equipment (cameras, recorders, etc.) during the movie making process. As I strolled around the museum I was pleasantly surprised to see a picture of my favorite all time actor, Sydney Poitier who starred in movies such as Lilies of the Field, Raisin in the Sun and Guess who is coming to Dinner. This experience was simple, laid back so to speak, yet interesting.
The third and last stop for the day sent us running for cover. This was Long Island City, a perfect location and example of gentrification. It has evolved from a community of desolation to a community of elite developments such as the ‘Citicorp’, the tallest building in Queens along with some of the finest apartments and restaurants overlooking the skylines of Manhattan as well as the Queens Borough Bridge that connects Queens and Manhattan. By this time, I was exhausted from the summer heat and long walks however, it did not matter too much because I was interesting in learning about the various Deco styles. Mike, our Gotham instructor pointed out the famous Empire State and Chrysler building as samples of Art Deco style verses the flat glass-like building without any particular feature as an international Deco. During the Deco illustration, here came mother-nature with her threatening lightning and dark skies. What does this tells you? The rush was on for cover. It was left to fittest to survive the rush to the train station. We all made it to cover. The first day of the Gotham experience ended there. I am pleased with the experience so far and looking forward to my next Gotham experience, Brooklyn.
First stop, the Fresh Meadow Park in Queens, “the most ethnically diverse county in the United States” (NY pp. 157). This park occupies the space of that of a junk yard in 1939. Presently it housed the World’s Unisphere, the world largest globe which was dedicated to “Peace through Understanding” during the World’s Fair in 1964. During some of my travel on the Grand Central Parkway I admire this oversize globe from a distance and this time I had the privilege to stand at its base and learn of its purpose. Thereafter, we walked over to the Queens Museum that housed the ‘Panorama’, the largest model of NYC introduced in 1964 at the World’s Fair. “It took 3 years and the cost was $672,662.69 to build” (queensmuesum.org).The intricacy of the Panorama blew my mind. It was unbelievable, awesome.
The ‘Museum of the Moving Image’ was the second stop. It was more relaxed and allowed my imagination to go wild, thinking how difficult it must have been to make movies in the 60’s to entertain the population. It must have taken strongly build people to carry or move those heavy iron equipment (cameras, recorders, etc.) during the movie making process. As I strolled around the museum I was pleasantly surprised to see a picture of my favorite all time actor, Sydney Poitier who starred in movies such as Lilies of the Field, Raisin in the Sun and Guess who is coming to Dinner. This experience was simple, laid back so to speak, yet interesting.
The third and last stop for the day sent us running for cover. This was Long Island City, a perfect location and example of gentrification. It has evolved from a community of desolation to a community of elite developments such as the ‘Citicorp’, the tallest building in Queens along with some of the finest apartments and restaurants overlooking the skylines of Manhattan as well as the Queens Borough Bridge that connects Queens and Manhattan. By this time, I was exhausted from the summer heat and long walks however, it did not matter too much because I was interesting in learning about the various Deco styles. Mike, our Gotham instructor pointed out the famous Empire State and Chrysler building as samples of Art Deco style verses the flat glass-like building without any particular feature as an international Deco. During the Deco illustration, here came mother-nature with her threatening lightning and dark skies. What does this tells you? The rush was on for cover. It was left to fittest to survive the rush to the train station. We all made it to cover. The first day of the Gotham experience ended there. I am pleased with the experience so far and looking forward to my next Gotham experience, Brooklyn.
3. Brooklyn
The Gotham experience continues in Breukelin, now
known as Brooklyn in Kings County, most populated borough of New York City. The Battle of Brooklyn was fought in this county on August 27, 1776 (NY p 135). Its
first settlers were the Dutch who were established in 1634 (NY p.135). The day’s
experience started in Coney Island known for its amusement park, the cyclone in
particular as well as for its long board walk, beach and authentic water
fountains and waterfront businesses. How can I forget the famous Nathans hot
dog joint? This is where the yearly hot dog eating competition is held. Coney
Island housed 60,000 inhabitants (NY p.137). Most of the individuals I met
yesterday were basically young, middle age and elderly locals enjoying their
day off from work or spending the day with their family. As far as the older
half naked men, they were sipping on cold beer, listening to ‘I’m in a New York
State of Mind’. They appeared to be retired and living the Coney Island ‘VIBE’,
that is, unrushed, relax, calm, collected and enjoying the cool ocean breeze.
Next stop, Downtown Brooklyn at the New York Transit Museum. I learned of the ‘Deep Water Tunnel’ and ‘Cut and Cover’ subway construction methods. I will leave the detail information to the engineers of this class, if there’s any. This experience, however, was pleasantly interesting as I listened to how the transit system evolved from streamed powered engines to the present electric system. I must say that today’s transit is far more expensive to travel but doubtlessly saves the city and the ozone from its daily blankets of cloud produced back then from the steam powered engines. I had the opportunity to experience the wooden turnstiles, sat on the first NYC bus, trains and ticket booth. Surprisingly, they all remain in excellent condition.
The experience continued to Brooklyn Heights where George Washington retreated from Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan during the Revolutionary War in 1776 (NY pp. 135 -136). I can proudly say I stood on the very ground of where this historical event took place. Brooklyn Heights is far beyond chaos and war. It is the most serene and peaceful neighborhood in New York City area that I have visited. Its rich architectural structures of gothic designs including cathedrals, federal buildings, homes and businesses were breathtaking. I wished the time spent there was more leisurely so that I could embrace and digest the Brooklyn Height’s luxurious beauty and calmness. Beyond its beauty, Brooklyn suffered a temporary loss after the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, however regained its affluent community with the arrival of the subway system (NY p.145). Brooklyn on a whole suffered a great loss after the Great Depression and World War II which caused people to flee to Long Island suburb and left Brooklyn with urban problems such as drugs, gang violence and other crimes (NY 135). Brooklyn obviously bounced back from its atrocious elements and today considered one of the most desirable place to live (NY p. 137).
The journey continued on to the Brooklyn Bridge Park and (Down Under Manhattan Brooklyn Overpass (DUMBO) where I enjoyed my first salted caramel ice cream. Then came the most challenging part of my Gotham experience, crossing the Brooklyn Bridge. The adrenalin kicked in and off I went. During the walk, my only and absolute desire at this point was to get to the other side of the bridge. By the way, I have already submitted my paper on the’ Brooklyn Bridge’. So, my last effort and desire was to role play one of the fact I read. That is, crossing the Brooklyn Bridge by foot and not by car as I usually do. Hooray! I did it and amazingly surprised with myself. I believed that New York City has so much to offer and every experience so far has drawn me a little closer. Will see what happens on my next Gotham experience.
Next stop, Downtown Brooklyn at the New York Transit Museum. I learned of the ‘Deep Water Tunnel’ and ‘Cut and Cover’ subway construction methods. I will leave the detail information to the engineers of this class, if there’s any. This experience, however, was pleasantly interesting as I listened to how the transit system evolved from streamed powered engines to the present electric system. I must say that today’s transit is far more expensive to travel but doubtlessly saves the city and the ozone from its daily blankets of cloud produced back then from the steam powered engines. I had the opportunity to experience the wooden turnstiles, sat on the first NYC bus, trains and ticket booth. Surprisingly, they all remain in excellent condition.
The experience continued to Brooklyn Heights where George Washington retreated from Brooklyn Heights to Manhattan during the Revolutionary War in 1776 (NY pp. 135 -136). I can proudly say I stood on the very ground of where this historical event took place. Brooklyn Heights is far beyond chaos and war. It is the most serene and peaceful neighborhood in New York City area that I have visited. Its rich architectural structures of gothic designs including cathedrals, federal buildings, homes and businesses were breathtaking. I wished the time spent there was more leisurely so that I could embrace and digest the Brooklyn Height’s luxurious beauty and calmness. Beyond its beauty, Brooklyn suffered a temporary loss after the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, however regained its affluent community with the arrival of the subway system (NY p.145). Brooklyn on a whole suffered a great loss after the Great Depression and World War II which caused people to flee to Long Island suburb and left Brooklyn with urban problems such as drugs, gang violence and other crimes (NY 135). Brooklyn obviously bounced back from its atrocious elements and today considered one of the most desirable place to live (NY p. 137).
The journey continued on to the Brooklyn Bridge Park and (Down Under Manhattan Brooklyn Overpass (DUMBO) where I enjoyed my first salted caramel ice cream. Then came the most challenging part of my Gotham experience, crossing the Brooklyn Bridge. The adrenalin kicked in and off I went. During the walk, my only and absolute desire at this point was to get to the other side of the bridge. By the way, I have already submitted my paper on the’ Brooklyn Bridge’. So, my last effort and desire was to role play one of the fact I read. That is, crossing the Brooklyn Bridge by foot and not by car as I usually do. Hooray! I did it and amazingly surprised with myself. I believed that New York City has so much to offer and every experience so far has drawn me a little closer. Will see what happens on my next Gotham experience.
4. The Village
Friday’s Gotham experience started at Penn Station,
our weekly meeting spot. The difference with this experience is that we started
on foot instead of hopping on the subway. Our experience started with a brief
history from Mike of the old Penn Station that was built by McKim, Mead and
White in 1910. It was said that Beaux Art architectural style Penn Station was
considered the most impressive in New York City (NY p 30). That beautiful Penn
Station was replaced to what we see today, the big circular brown structure
located on 32 Street and 7th Ave. which is no comparison to the
original Penn when it comes architectural beauty. Across from Penn Station you
will find the United States Postal Office that was built in 1913 by the same
company as the old Penn. Mike informed the class that the plan is to move Penn
Station in this location. I think that’s a great idea. It will bring back some
prestige to the busiest transportation station.
We journeyed on the streets of lower Manhattan to the High Line of Chelsea that was officially opened in 2006 to both New Yorkers and tourists (NY 107). The architectural view from the High Line was immaculate. I never knew places like this exist in NYC. This is another experience I will add to my treasure box. In Chelsea, another brief history was provided by Mike. He stated, ‘In the early 1900’s Chelsea was basically used as farmland. Its owner was Clement Clarke Moore. He was a poet, farmer and developer. During this era, the ‘Beautiful People’ also occupied this area until the railroad erected in the heart of Chelsea which ultimately took several lives. This gave 10th Ave its name, ‘Death Avenue’ (NY 106). Today Chelsea is known for its numerous Art Galleries (NY 106). We took short views of some galleries such as Andrea Meislin Gallery, Tanya Sonakdar, Eugenio Merio, Paula Cooper Gallery and others.
Personally, I truly love and appreciate all types of art and my favorite art pieces were the Cedar Logs, the abstract painting and the image of Fidel Castro, the Cuban dictator. The logs, to me represents nature, purity and untarnished state of mind. The abstract art depicts nothing in particular, just a free style of expression. Fidel Castro although known as a dictator has accomplished many positive elements to society such as educating farmers in the Caribbean in developing fresh water fish farm, cultivating fruits like strawberries, allowing medical students to train as doctors in Cuba and help to free the people in Zimbabwe, South Africa and was also very instrumental in the Nelson Mandela’s struggle to freedom. One of his top ten quote is “They talk about the failure of socialism but where is the success of capitalism in Africa, Asia and Latin America” (en.wikiquote.org).
Unfortunately, we did not run into any of the ‘Beautiful People’ at the Galleries. Mike’s lecture continued as we stood before the seven red brick row houses built in 1839, the General Theological Seminary built in1836, and the St. Peter’s Episcopal Church that was built in 1836 by Moore. This Gothic Revival style structure is a beauty to behold. Its beautiful stained windows and ornaments that meticulously bonded with its stone frame tells us it story. This building currently serves the parishioners in the neighborhood.
Next and surprising stop was the Chelsea Market. On the outside of the market and its surrounding areas was very deceiving. It appeared quiet and calm for a moment until the door opened. We talked about chaotic NYC. Chelsea Market was at the highest peak of chaos. There were people everywhere and bumping into each other. The best thing that came out of Chelsea’s Market is my delicious lobster sandwich I had for lunch. In my culture, we would describe it as ‘finger lickin good man’.
Washington Park was another interesting place where Mike once again provided us with historical facts, as well as his personal experience encountering the pushers in the early 80’s. He talked about the burial of the indigent people, the oldest elm tree and the significance of the Washington Arch. I like the arch a lot. I believe its beauty covers the ugliness of the atrocious activities that took place in the park in the early 70 and 80’s.
The last significant stop of the day was the Merchants House Museum. I was a little disappointed due to hypo phonic voice of our guide. It was very strenuous to hear the historical information offered and I felt robbed of what I thought would have been interesting. However, the little I heard left me with concerning questions such as, if the rich lived in conditions where there was no running water, or accessible toilet, no air condition then what was it like to be poor then. I can’t begin to imagine.
Overall, my experience on Friday, July 11, 2014, is considered awesome. I have learned a lot about NYC’ history and discovering places I never knew exist. Looking forward to new and mind blowing experiences, Mike.
We journeyed on the streets of lower Manhattan to the High Line of Chelsea that was officially opened in 2006 to both New Yorkers and tourists (NY 107). The architectural view from the High Line was immaculate. I never knew places like this exist in NYC. This is another experience I will add to my treasure box. In Chelsea, another brief history was provided by Mike. He stated, ‘In the early 1900’s Chelsea was basically used as farmland. Its owner was Clement Clarke Moore. He was a poet, farmer and developer. During this era, the ‘Beautiful People’ also occupied this area until the railroad erected in the heart of Chelsea which ultimately took several lives. This gave 10th Ave its name, ‘Death Avenue’ (NY 106). Today Chelsea is known for its numerous Art Galleries (NY 106). We took short views of some galleries such as Andrea Meislin Gallery, Tanya Sonakdar, Eugenio Merio, Paula Cooper Gallery and others.
Personally, I truly love and appreciate all types of art and my favorite art pieces were the Cedar Logs, the abstract painting and the image of Fidel Castro, the Cuban dictator. The logs, to me represents nature, purity and untarnished state of mind. The abstract art depicts nothing in particular, just a free style of expression. Fidel Castro although known as a dictator has accomplished many positive elements to society such as educating farmers in the Caribbean in developing fresh water fish farm, cultivating fruits like strawberries, allowing medical students to train as doctors in Cuba and help to free the people in Zimbabwe, South Africa and was also very instrumental in the Nelson Mandela’s struggle to freedom. One of his top ten quote is “They talk about the failure of socialism but where is the success of capitalism in Africa, Asia and Latin America” (en.wikiquote.org).
Unfortunately, we did not run into any of the ‘Beautiful People’ at the Galleries. Mike’s lecture continued as we stood before the seven red brick row houses built in 1839, the General Theological Seminary built in1836, and the St. Peter’s Episcopal Church that was built in 1836 by Moore. This Gothic Revival style structure is a beauty to behold. Its beautiful stained windows and ornaments that meticulously bonded with its stone frame tells us it story. This building currently serves the parishioners in the neighborhood.
Next and surprising stop was the Chelsea Market. On the outside of the market and its surrounding areas was very deceiving. It appeared quiet and calm for a moment until the door opened. We talked about chaotic NYC. Chelsea Market was at the highest peak of chaos. There were people everywhere and bumping into each other. The best thing that came out of Chelsea’s Market is my delicious lobster sandwich I had for lunch. In my culture, we would describe it as ‘finger lickin good man’.
Washington Park was another interesting place where Mike once again provided us with historical facts, as well as his personal experience encountering the pushers in the early 80’s. He talked about the burial of the indigent people, the oldest elm tree and the significance of the Washington Arch. I like the arch a lot. I believe its beauty covers the ugliness of the atrocious activities that took place in the park in the early 70 and 80’s.
The last significant stop of the day was the Merchants House Museum. I was a little disappointed due to hypo phonic voice of our guide. It was very strenuous to hear the historical information offered and I felt robbed of what I thought would have been interesting. However, the little I heard left me with concerning questions such as, if the rich lived in conditions where there was no running water, or accessible toilet, no air condition then what was it like to be poor then. I can’t begin to imagine.
Overall, my experience on Friday, July 11, 2014, is considered awesome. I have learned a lot about NYC’ history and discovering places I never knew exist. Looking forward to new and mind blowing experiences, Mike.