Barneys bad for authentic hippies
To The Editor:
Re: “Barneys Bargain Table: When Neighborhood Activism and CB4 Scrutiny Made a Retail Behemoth Blink” (news, Feb. 25, 2016):
My first objection to the new Barneys is its ugly storefront, the clumsy metal (aluminum?) overhang, and whatever that large black structure is for, whose girders partially block the sidewalk. I also object to the advertising for the new store that features a group of seemingly authentic hippies who today would very likely be followed around by security guards should they decide to investigate the displays of handbags and jewelry spread over the very corporate-looking ground floor.
Judith Childs
Raise a glass (of apricot brandy) to Julius’
To The Editor:
Re: “Landmark Status Sought for Sight of ’66 Sip-In” (news, Feb. 25, 2016):
I was glad to read Andy Humm’s article. I well remember Julius’ bar in Greenwich Village when I first came to live and work in NYC in the ’70s. In my living room now, I have a framed 12-month 1984 calendar from Julius’ showing an etching of the exterior by Don Nute, which he did in 1977. The exterior looks the same today.
The large bar, as you entered, had seats, and patrons also stood. The drinks were strong and the bartender at night was very busy. I myself usually had an apricot brandy on the rocks when I met friends and we sat in the back to chat. The small open kitchen opposite the bar, with its one short order cook, served hamburgers and french fries cooked to order. Conversations drowned out the music from the jukebox.
Paul Mazursky immortalized Julius’ in his semiautobiographical 1976 movie “Next Stop, Greenwich Village.” His alter ego, Lenny in the movie, moves to the Village in 1953 and frequents the bar, which at that time got a clientele of straight and gay people who did not appear to mingle.
That the building is from 1826 and a bar from 1864 are two more good reasons for Landmark status.
Paul L. Marsolini
Feedback From Facebook
Re “Formerly of ‘Fiddler,’ Finkel, 93, Far From Final Act” (arts, Mar. 3, 2016):
What a joy to see Fyvush still performing. I worked with him in the Catskills and have watched with pleasure as his career blossomed. Stay well, Fyvush, and keep on playing for many more years.
Paul Golden
Re “Water Can’t Dampen Drama Book Shop’s Prospects” (news, Mar. 3, 2016):
The first time I went to the Drama Book Shop, I was about 10. I studied at the Neighborhood Playhouse when I was 13. I was obsessed with theatre. I was a theatre major at BU and I must have owned every play ever written — and they all came from the Drama Book Shop. I haven’t been there in a long time. Wonderful memories! You were a wonderful part of my life. I’m so glad you are still there. See you soon!
Carol Schneider
