By Janel Bladow
Seafarers Support… Seamen’s Church Institute wraps its 175 anniversary festivities with a benefit gala celebrating the institute’s legacy and heritage on Nov. 11 at the Cathedral Church of St. John The Divine. While the recession has hit the shipping industry hard with ocean transporters by the dozens anchored idly off Singapore, Douglas Stevenson, director of the institute’s Center for Seafarers’ Rights, tells Seaport Report that the economic downturn hasn’t really impacted mariners as much.
“There’s been a shortage of qualified professionals, especially at the management level, for some time. And the ships are still crewed,” he says.
So fortunately, most merchant marines are still working. But a big concern is the post-traumatic effects of global piracy on ocean-workers. To see what toll being taken hostage at sea has on seamen, the S.C.I. is launching a major psychological study. Meanwhile, you can do your part to help our ocean-going shipmates, because it’s not too early to think Christmas At Sea, the institute’s knitting and gift project for seafarers away from home during the holidays. For more info on knitting, contributing or attending the benefit, visit
Going, Glowing, Gone… For more than a decade, Halloween was celebrated with a special treat at 268 Water St. The big picture windows of 3D Laboratory were filled with dozens and dozens of glowing ornately-carved orangy orbs. Pumpkins of every size and shape were sculpted with scary faces, smiling masks and intricate optical designs, delighting all passersby. But no more, as of press time, management has decided to forgo the festivities, carving and display. Sadly, the big pumpkin window becomes a victim of the recession and ends a neighborhood tradition. Our hopes are still high that they see this item and decide to bring back their Great Pumpkin Extravaganza.
Goblins Galore… But one of the neighborhood’s favorite ghostly rituals is the annual Fish-Bridge party, parade and trick or treating. Little ghosts and ghouls gather at the garden on Dover St. at dusk Halloween night then trek throughout the ‘hood collecting their sugary treats. Watch for flyers with details and to sign up your building as a must stop for the sweet bounty!
Pumpkin Booty… Perhaps a new Seaport Halloween custom is in the budding stages. The neighborhood’s latest hangout, Cowgirl SeaHorse, on Front at Dover St., plans a party for pirates of all ages! Aye matey! The first “Pirate Pumpkin Patch Kid’s Carving Party” is on Monday, Oct. 19, 3 – 7 p.m. Kids of all ages are invited to carve a pumpkin to display at the SeaHorse. Nautical themes encouraged. Complimentary apple cider and popcorn, pumpkins, carving tools and other craft projects are sure to awaken little artistic adventurers!
Calling All Costume Lovers… And for adult kids who like to dress up, Meade’s is having its first annual Halloween costume party, complete with prizes! Join the gang at Peck Slip and Water St. on Halloween for a frightfully fun night!
Hollywood & Vine… The Sip & Cinema series at Passenella & Son kicked off last week with, how timely, Roman Polanski’s first movie, “Knife In The Water.” A robust red, Saint Cosme Cotes Du Rhone, and a refreshing white, Chateau Ducasse Bordeaux, were sampled and proved to be a delish delight for under $15. Next up on the big screen, “The Lady From Shanghai,” Monday, Oct. 19, 7 p.m. For more details go to: www.pasanellaandson.com
Dutch Are Still Here… The celebration of the settlement of New Amsterdam 400 years ago continues. Those early white settlers are being feted during “5 Dutch Days,” Nov. 12 –16. Throughout all five boroughs, lectures, concerts, gallery exhibits, parades and parties will highlight the continuous influence of Dutch arts and culture. Happening in our hood are two walking tours.
“Trading in New Amsterdam” (Fri., Nov. 13, 11 a.m., $15) begins with the premise that New Amsterdam was settled to establish trade, meets at the U.S. Custom House and includes a tour of the Museum of American Finance. The trek visits the remains of the Dutch colony and discusses how early trading evolved to become modern Wall St. over the past 400 years.
The second is a “Walking Tour of New Amsterdam” (Sat., Nov 14, 11:30 a.m., $10), during which guide Rick Landman, Esq, A.I.C.P., will discuss Dutch buildings, street patterns, and the religious impact of New Amsterdam. To register for either tour or to learn more about the festivities go to: www.5dutchdaysnyc.org.
One Downtown resident has another take on the impression the left behind by clog-wearers. Author Susanna Cuyler has penned “Dutch New Amsterdam Lasted Only Two Generations (1610 – 1664).” Cuyler’s ancestors were among the first Dutch to settle Manhattan Island and made their mark early. She points out to Seaport Report that her family had their namesake anchorage, Cuylers Slip, and tavern just south of Old Slip and north of Broad Street. “Of course, it’s not there anymore. Daddy’s people left for Savannah.” Order her book ($14) at her web site: www.brugged.com
