Picture Of The Day: No Feeding

Seen on Pacific Street at the old Pacifico restaurant location

Small Wood Clad House On Smith Street Soon To Be Altered

I always wondered about the unusual three-story, mixed-use building at 159 Smith Street between Wycoff and Bergen Streets in Boerum Hill.  Amidst a row of brick buildings that seem to have been constructed at the same time, it was the only one that had wood cladding.  Over the last few years, the paint on the cladding had begun to peel and the house looked in need of  care, but it had a certain charm and had kept its  original ornate cornice as well as nice window details.
Sadly, instead of getting renovated, the building will soon be altered.  Permits for a two-story addition have been approved by NYC's Department of Buildings.

Not only will the addition make the building stick out from the others on that block, the work will most likely include a new façade.  Most probably, the cornice may not survive this alteration either.

Some roof demolition has already begun.

Of late, the building's storefront had been the home of Dr. Garry Levingard, a dentist, who relocated to #208 Smith Street recently.

Another Casualty Of Rising Rents: 'Knit-A-Way' On Atlantic Avenue To Vacate Current Location

Not everyone in the neighborhood knits or crochets, but for those who do, here is some sad news. Seeta Heeralal, owner of "Knit-A-Way', will be forced out of her current location at 398 Atlantic Avenue because of higher rent.

Seeta was just informed by her landlord in November that her monthly rent will increase from $3,000 to $9,000 in January. Any attempt to negotiate has failed so far. (In fairness, Seeta's landlord had lowered the rent from $4,700 to $3,000 during the recent downturn in the economy.)
According to Seeta, the landlord gave her till January 31st, 2014 to vacate.  She hopes for just a bit more time. After ten years building a clientele at this location, she says: "My heart would break if I had to leave."

Seeta took over "The Knittery" from a former boss in 2004 and renamed the business "Knit-A-Way".  At that time,  it was the first yarn store in the area. Today, there are others, but Seeta points out that she took a chance at a time 'when no one wanted to come here."

Seeta is currently weighing her options and is looking at several other locations, but the rent is either too high or the space too small.  She would appreciate any help or tips, so if anyone knows of a small 'affordable' storefront in the area, please contact Seeta here.

Picture Of The Day: Poetic Post Box

As seen on a USPS Box on Court Street:

"Je me nouris de souvenirs"

(I sustain myself on memories)

Notice Of Upcoming Work At Lightstone Development Site In Gowanus

Renderings courtesy of Lightstone Group

It would appear that Lightstone Group is moving forward with its 700-unit rental development on the shores of the Gowanus Canal.
A notice of upcoming site work on the development site located at  363-365 Bond Street and 400 Carroll Street in Gowanus was sent out by Community Board 6's District Manager Craig Hammerman this past Wednesday.

The work is starting today, Monday, and will involve demolition, soil boring, asbestos abatement, and construction of fencing.

Below is the entire notice:
Beginning Monday, December 2nd, 2013, The Lightstone Group will begin pre-construction site preparation at its Gowanus property, located at 363-365 Bond Street and 400 Carroll Street.

The site preparation work that will be conducted includes:

363 Bond Street:
Completion of sidewalk bridge & fence installation
Routine asbestos abatement on roof and inside building, performed by personnel in full protective gear as required by code

365 Bond Street:
Construction fence relocation
Demolition start
Soil boring at bulkhead
Subcontractor walk-throughs

400 Carroll Street:
Deliveries to construction trailer
Brick mock-up installation
Soil boring at bulkhead
Routine asbestos abatement on roof and inside building, performed by personnel in full protective gear as required by code

Langan Engineering will oversee the asbestos abatement and ensure that the work is conducted in accordance with standard procedures.

Lettire/Pride will conduct the demolition work.

Hours of work: The work will be conducted between the hours of 7:00am and 6:00pm Monday through Friday. On Saturday work may be conducted between 9:00am and 6:00pm.

A Moment Back In Time: The Founding Of St. Paul's Church On Clinton Street At Carroll Street

The wooden structure that first housed the St. Paul's congregation

The Gothic Revival church designed by Richard M. Upjohn, which still stands today.

vintage photos courtesy of St. Paul's Church

For all those who enjoy the past, here is a beautiful video of the history of St. Paul's Church at 199 Carroll Street right here in Carroll Gardens. The video was made in celebration of the church's 160th anniversary and highlights its story and that of its "volunteer parishioners who kept the church going through good times and bad times."

St. Paul's was  founded on Christmas Day of 1849 in a stable on lower Union Street.  By 1850, the congregation had swelled in numbers and soon after constructed its first house of worship, a simple wooden building on a plot of land that had once been part of the elegant John Rankin home on Clinton Street.
Just ten years later, the growing congregation had outgrown this first structure and  "inspired ideas of a more noble and permanent church were beginning to rise in the hearts and minds of its congregants."

Parishioner Richard M. Upjohn, an influential American architect and co-founder and president of the American Institute of Architects, volunteered his free services to design a new Gothic Revival structure. In 1869, "a mere twenty years since its founding", the congregation was able to raise enough money to lay the cornerstone for the structure that stands at the corner of Clinton Street and Carroll Street today.

In the 1980s, the aging church structure was in desperate need of costly structural repairs. A major fire in 1987 damaged the roof, stained glass windows and much of the interior of the building.  The congregation vowed to save the church and started a fundraising campaign to cover the cost of an ambitious renovation, which ultimately saved the structure.

St. Paul's Church was placed on the National Registry of Historical Places in 1991.

The video highlights beautiful old photos of the church and features recollections by life-long parishioners.
I am sure you will enjoy this glimpse into the past of St. Paul's and the neighborhood's history.

Smith Street Stage Presents 'A Christmas Carol (A Radio Play)' In Carroll Park

Photo credit: Smith Street Stage

Photo credit: Smith Street Stage

For the second year in a row, Smith Street Stage, a local theatre group,  will transform the Robert Acito Park House in Carroll Park into an intimate playhouse to bring the delightful "A Christmas Story (A Radio Play)" to the neighborhood.

Adapted and directed by Beth Ann Hopkins, Charles Dickens' perennial classic will be performed  as a radio play set in the 1940s. Seven actors playing the role of thirty-four characters will create special sound effects to accentuate the tale.

 Don't miss this wonderful production.  In all, there will be twelve performances. The first one will be performed this Wednesday, December 4th.  Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for children. Seating is first come, first served.  Doors open ten minutes before performances.

Smith Street Stage Presents: 

Charles Dickens' "Christmas Carol  (A Radio Play)" 

at the Robert Acito Park House in Carroll Park

Corner of President Street and Smith Street 

December 4, 5, 6 at 8 pm

December 7 at 5 pm and 8 pm

December 8 at 5 pm

December 11, 12, 13 at 8pm

December 14 at 5pm and 8 pm

December 15 at 5 pm

Tickets are available here.

Bullett Raja Movie Review

Saif Ali Khan in a Bullet shooting a Bullet.

Director: Tigmanshu Dhulia

Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Sonakshi Sinha, Raj Mishra, Jimmi Shergill, Chunkey Pandey, Gulshan Grover

Bullett Raja tries to explore the issues of male bonding, friendship, love and comedy. Raja Mishra,(Saif Ali Khan) an angry unshaven young man looks no different. Raja who has been looking for a job, is chased by goons, and to escape them, he joins a wedding procession. Raja immediately befriends the bride's cousin Rudra Tripathi (Jimmi Shergil). Lallan Tiwari (Chunkey Pandey), a relative of Rudra has a plan to kill all the family members. With Raja's help, Rudra is able to save his family and their friendship deepens after this. Their friendship is such that only death can part them.

Raja and Rudra then rise from modest beginnings to become India's most infamous gangsters courtesy the safety net provided by various political leaders, Bajaj (Gulshan Grover), businessman, tries to take revenge on the duo, which results in Rudra's death. The movie then turns to be more of an ego trip for Raja, a quest to avenge the murder of a beloved friend.

Ram Babu Shukla (Raj Babbar), one of the strong politicians, plays a great role in uplifting the protagonists. He turns out to be a green serpent. Sumer yadav (Ravi Kishan) with the potential to leave a mark as a villainous character hasn't been used properly by the director.Mitali (Sonakshi Sinha) plays as a Bengali girl. She immediately gives up her dream of acting after Raja proposes her. Appearing in a few scenes, Sinha has nothing to do in the movie.

Sajid Wajid's music has tried to give a rock touch to the movie, however it fails to maintain the standard. The music is very similar to Dabang's music. The formula of having an item numer by Mahie Gill distracts the audience with her belly jiggles.

Sonakshi Sinha in a movie song

The movie has tried to bring a kind of Sholay's Jai - Veeru bonding and that too in similar rural settings where Gabbar Singh wants Basanti to perfrom a dance for him. However, here the scene is replaced by the demand of the gangster for Bipasha Basu's dance performance. Overall the whole storyline of the movie is unattractive with hero beating and shooting only the villians without being beaten, placement of irrelevant songs in inappropriate places is a complete disappointment.

Bullett Raja Schedule and Ticket Rates at QFX, Fcube, Big Movies ...

Bullett Raja Hindi Movie - In Theaters From: 29th November 2013, Friday     Last Updated: 3rd December 2013, Tuesday (Nepal Standard Time)
Language: Hindi, Genre: Action, Length/Duration: 2 Hours 18 Minutes, Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Sonakshi Sinha

Theater/Cinema Hall Name & Location	Contact Number	Show Time/Schedule	Ticket Price/ Special Offer
Big Movies City Center Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu	4011645 2112233	5th December 2013, Thursday 9:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:30 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 9:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:30 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 9:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:30 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 9:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:10 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:15 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 9:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:10 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:15 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:10 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:05 PM, 8:15 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 4:10 PM, 5:15 PM, 8:00 PM	Wednesday All Shows, All Seats: @Nrs. 185 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 160 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 200 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 250 Friday To Sunday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 180 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 250 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 300
FCube, KL Tower Chuchepati, Chabahil	4468700	5th December 2013, Thursday 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:15 PM, 6:15 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:15 PM, 6:15 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:15 PM, 6:15 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:00 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:00 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:45 PM, 6:00 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:15 AM, 12:15 PM, 3:00 PM, 4:45 PM, 6:00 PM	Morning Shows (8-10 AM): @Rs. 175 everyday 2D @Rs. 225 everyday 3D Tuesday All Shows: @Rs. 175 2D @Rs. 225 3D Monday to Thrursday: @Rs. 250 2D @Rs. 300 3D Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays: @Rs. 300 2D @Rs. 350 3D
QFX Jai Nepal 317 Narayanhiti Marg	4442220 4433275	5th December 2013, Thursday 11:45 AM,3:15 PM,6:15 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 11:45 AM,3:15 PM,6:15 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 11:45 AM,3:15 PM,6:15 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 11:45 AM,3:15 PM,6:15 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 11:45 AM,3:15 PM,6:15 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM,12:00 PM,3:00 PM,6:15 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM,12:00 PM,3:00 PM,6:15 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) @Rs. 160 (Silver) Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) @Rs. 210 (Silver) Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Kumari Putalisadak	4442220 4433275	5th December 2013, Thursday 12:15 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 12:15 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 12:15 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 12:15 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 9:15 AM,3:15 PM,6:45 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:15 AM,12:15 PM,3:15 PM,6:45 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 290 (Gold) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 340 (Gold) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Civil Mall Sundhara	4442220 4433275	5th December 2013, Thursday 12:00 PM,2:00 PM,3:00 PM,6:30 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 12:00 PM,2:00 PM,3:00 PM,6:30 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 12:00 PM,2:00 PM,3:00 PM,6:30 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 12:00 PM,2:00 PM,3:00 PM,6:30 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 12:00 PM,2:00 PM,3:00 PM,6:30 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:30 AM,9:30 AM,12:45 PM,2:30 PM,4:00 PM,7:15 PM,8:45 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:30 AM,12:45 PM,4:00 PM,7:15 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 400 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 470 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 250 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 320 (Platinum) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 450 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 520 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 300 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 370 (Platinum) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF on Platinum Seats only Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF on platinum seats only
Guna Cinema	5200668 2220100 5202777	5th December 2013, Thursday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM
Asta Narayan Pictures Balaju Bypas	4390207 4350324	5th December 2013, Thursday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM	Rs. 100/150
Gopi Krishna Movies Chabahil, Kathmandu	4912409 4812393	5th December 2013, Thursday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM	Sunday to Thursday: 50% OFF

Movie Theater	Show Time information via SMS and more
Big Movies, City Center	Type BM and send it to 5001 to get the updated movie schedule.
FCube, KL Tower	Type FCUBE and send it to 3010 to get the showtime.
Guna Cinema	Type CINEMA and send it to 4862 or dial 1618015202777
QFX Civil Mall	Type QFXCM and send it to 4000
QFX Jai Nepal	Type QFXJNC and send it to 4000
QFX Kumari Hall	Type QFXKC and send it to 4000

Gori Tere Pyaar Mein Review

In a Movie Song - Chewing Chaba ke

Director: Punit Mehta

Genre: Romance

Cast: Imran Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Nizhalgal Ravi, Sujata Kumar, Manoj Baksi, Anupam Kher, Shradha Kapoor

In hindi movies mostly the heroine runs away from her Saadi Ki Mandap (Marriage Ceremony). But in the movie "Gori Tere Pyaar Mein", the hero Sriram Venkat (Imran Khan) leaves the beautiful Vasudha (Shradha Kapoor) and all the luxury of his life to chase his love Dia Sharma (Kareena Kapoor). And its Vasudha who persuades Sriram not to marry her and go after his love.

Sriram's personality os just opposite to his name , he is a flirt and good for nothing and even his father calls him Kala Dhabba. He is a US returned architect who has no ambition in his life and even fails to attend his grandfather's funeral. Sri Ram falls for Dia at first sight when he spots her trying to clear a traffic jam. Dia, a smart and beautiful social worker, works towards a better society to live in.

The movie is interesting and exciting in the first half with naach-gaana (songs) and colorful wedding environment but the level of excitement plummets when the story becomes predictable. The director has failed to keep up with the story and you kind of get te experience of watching two different movies in one the first half against an urban backdrop, and the second half in a rustic village setting- each half trying to conclude rapidly without much essence in the story.

The Chemistry between Imran and Kareena is dilightful and both have done justice to characters. It's the story that drowns them. Even with a small role, Shraddha has added charm to the movie. However, Anupam Kher as the antagonist is over the top, who looks rather stupid then dangerous. The movie lakcs flavours of romance and comedy but if  you like Kareena and Imran its up to you whether to watch it or not.

Some Snapshots of the movie "Gori Tere Pyaar Mein":

Shradha Kapoor and Imran Khan

Run Sriram Run

Kareena Kapoor and Imran Khan - Looking Nice

Kareena Kapoor - Killer Looks

Happy Thanksgiving To All

On Atlantic Avenue

I would like to wish all my friends and loyal readers a very happy Thanksgiving and safe travels if you are visiting family.
I will be staying right here in Carroll Gardens this year and am looking forward to gathering my family around the table. The turkey has been bought, the pantry is fully stocked, and the champagne is chilling in the fridge. All that needs to be done is to get started on the cooking.
I hope you will join me back here on Monday for some more stories and photos of the neighborhood.
With cheers, Katia

Moving And Recycling: Two South Brooklyn Entrepreneurs Form Partnership To Reduce Waste

Mark Ehrhardt of Movers Not Shakers 

Adam Baruchowitz of Wearable Collections

Recently, two South Brooklyn entrepreneurs have come up with a simple idea to reduce waste as well as making moving a lot easier.

Adam Baruchowitz of Wearable Collections Clothing Recycling on West 9th Street between Court and Smith Streets, and Mark Ehrhardt of Movers Not Shakers in Red Hook formed a partnership to launch a new collection program that allows people who are moving to leave behind their unwanted clothing.

From Wearable Collections web site:
Together we hope to ease the burden of moving while adding a Eco-friendly element. No more rushing to the nearest thrift store, hauling 10 bags of unwanted clothing when you have 100 other things on your list to accomplish before the move. Simply put those bags aside as recyclable and we will handle the rest. Your clothes, textiles and shoes will be placed in a re-usable plastic bin and delivered to our facility in Movers Not Shakers’ biodiesel vehicles. Not only did your move just get easier, it also got a whole lot greener.

Take a look at the video above which was made by Blue Barn Pictures of Dumbo for Baruchowitz and Ehrhardt.

Paid To Promote

Your Participation Is Needed: Have A Say On The Future Of The Gowanus Neighborhood At Public Meeting On December 9th

Your involvement and participation are needed. 
Please make every effort to attend this important meeting.

Bridging Gowanus

Monday December 9th, 2013 

from 6:30 to 8:30 pm 

at PS 372 – The Children’s School at 512 Carroll Street. 

"First in a series of public meetings to develop a neighborhood framework for the infrastructure and land uses needed for a safe, vibrant and sustainable Gowanus. 

Recently, I wrote about a series of 'Gowanus Planning' kick-off meetings that had been held jointly by State Senator Velmanette Montgomery, Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez, State Assemblywoman Joan Millman, Councilmember Steven Levin and Councilmember Lander.

Pratt Center for Community Development (not to be confused with the Pratt Institute) has been hired by the elected officials as the facilitator and consultant in charge of running the planning process.
According to an overview prepared by Pratt, the goal is to:
*Develop the outlines of a comprehensive, community‐based infrastructure and land‐use plan for a safe, vibrant, and sustainable Gowanus area
*Bring community stakeholders together to build as much consensus as we can around a long‐term vision for the Gowanus Canal area
*Shape the next NYC mayoral administration’s thinking about the Gowanus Canal
*Create a space for honest conversation about different viewpoints.

The first such meeting had been convened this past August. On the list of invited stakeholders were representatives from local organizations and neighborhood associations. Those same stakeholders met again in October for a series of small group interviews.

Pratt Center compiled the information from these interviews and will present the findings at the first in a series of public meetings to be held on Monday December 9th, 2013.

The end result of these meetings, according to a press release "will be a community supported blueprint for an environmentally safe, vibrant, and sustainable Gowanus to inform de Blasio Administration."

Personally, I remain very skeptical of this entire 'Gowanus planning' process and doubt that at its conclusion, the community will be able to truly influence the outcome.
Mayor-elect Bill De Blasio, who once served as our Councilman, not only supported the Toll Brothers Gowanus spot-rezoning back in '08, he fought hard to drive away the EPA when the agency proposed to list the Gowanus as a Superfund. I have no doubt that he is itching to hand over the Gowanus corridor to developers.

However, as I wrote previously, I do believe that the community needs to take the planning process back. We owe it to ourselves and to all who will come after us to take our seat at the table, and to push for a true, transparent, democratic process. We need to tell our politicians that before any new development is envisioned, we need to first find out what the Gowanus can sustain. We need to first invest in infrastructure to strengthen the businesses and the residential areas that are already there, and we need to demand new tools in City Planning's tool box.
As a community, we need to remind our politicians that before moving ahead with any re-zoning, we need a health study to gage the effects of exposure to the environmental hazards in Gowanus. Secondly, we need a hydrological study to evaluate the effect of new development in this flood prone area.
Most importantly, we need assurances from Mayor-elect De Balsio that the City Of New York will pay and follow through on the EPA-mandated retention basins that will help reduce the Combined Sewer Overflows and improve water quality in the canal. Without these studies and without the retention basins, planning more housing in Gowanus seemed "recklessly premature."

Whether you live or work in Gowanus, Carroll Gardens, Boerum Hill, or Park Slope, whatever your vision for the future, we will all be affected by how the Gowanus corridor will be re-zoned.

Please stay involved.   You can visit BridgingGowanus.org for upcoming meeting announcements and information about the process. 

Thor : The Dark World 3D Schedule and Ticket Rates

Thor : The Dark World 3D English Movie - In Theaters From: 22nd November 2013, Friday     Last Updated: 3rd December 2013, Tuesday (Nepal Standard Time)
Language: English, Genre: Action, Length/Duration: 2 Hours 10 Minutes, Cast: Chris Hemsworth, Nataile Portman, Tom Hiddleston, Stellan Skarsgard

Theater/Cinema Hall Name & Location	Contact Number	Show Time/Schedule	Ticket Price/ Special Offer
Big Movies City Center Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu	4011645 2112233	5th December 2013, Thursday 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM 2nd December 2013, Monday 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM 1st December 2013, Sunday 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM 29th November 2013, Friday 8:30 AM, 11:00 AM 28th November 2013, Thursday 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 8:30 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 8:30 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:05 PM, 8:30 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:05 PM, 8:30 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:05 PM, 8:30 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM, 3:05 PM, 8:30 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 7:00 PM	Wednesday All Shows, All Seats: @Nrs. 185 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 160 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 200 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 250 Friday To Sunday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 180 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 250 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 300
FCube, KL Tower Chuchepati, Chabahil	4468700	5th December 2013, Thursday 2:00 PM, 6:45 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 2:00 PM, 6:45 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 2:00 PM, 6:45 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 12:00 PM, 5:15 PM, 7:30 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 12:00 PM, 5:15 PM, 7:30 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 6:30 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 8:30 AM, 1:30 PM, 6:30 PM 28th November 2013, Thursday 11:30 AM, 1:45 PM, 7:00 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 11:30 AM, 1:45 PM, 7:00 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 12:00 PM, 2:15 PM, 4:30 PM, 7:00 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 11:30 AM, 1:45 PM, 7:00 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 11:30 AM, 7:15 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 8:30 AM, 1:45 PM, 6:45 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 6:30 PM	Morning Shows (8-10 AM): @Rs. 175 everyday 2D @Rs. 225 everyday 3D Tuesday All Shows: @Rs. 175 2D @Rs. 225 3D Monday to Thrursday: @Rs. 250 2D @Rs. 300 3D Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays: @Rs. 300 2D @Rs. 350 3D
QFX Jai Nepal 317 Narayanhiti Marg	4442220 4433275		Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) @Rs. 160 (Silver) Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) @Rs. 210 (Silver) Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Kumari Putalisadak	4442220 4433275	5th December 2013, Thursday 12:30 PM,6:15 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 12:30 PM,6:15 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 12:30 PM,6:15 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 12:15 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 12:30 PM,6:15 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM,6:30 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM,6:30 PM 28th November 2013, Thursday 6:45 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 11:45 AM,4:45 PM,7:15 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 11:45 AM,4:45 PM,7:15 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 11:45 AM,4:45 PM,7:15 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 11:45 AM,4:45 PM,7:15 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 12:15 PM,6:30 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 7:00 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 290 (Gold) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 340 (Gold) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Civil Mall Sundhara	4442220 4433275	5th December 2013, Thursday 11:30 AM,3:30 PM,6:45 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 11:30 AM,3:30 PM,6:45 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 11:30 AM,3:30 PM,6:45 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 11:30 AM,3:30 PM,6:45 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 11:30 AM,3:30 PM,6:45 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM,2:45 PM,5:15 PM,8:00 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM,2:45 PM,5:15 PM,8:00 PM 28th November 2013, Thursday 11:30 AM,2:00 PM,7:00 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 11:30 AM,2:00 PM,7:00 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 11:30 AM,2:00 PM,7:00 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 11:30 AM,2:00 PM,7:00 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 11:30 AM,2:00 PM,7:00 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM,3:15 PM,6:00 PM,8:30 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 6:00 PM,8:45 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 400 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 470 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 250 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 320 (Platinum) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 450 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 520 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 300 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 370 (Platinum) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF on Platinum Seats only Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF on platinum seats only
Guna Cinema	5200668 2220100 5202777
Asta Narayan Pictures Balaju Bypas	4390207 4350324		Rs. 100/150
Gopi Krishna Movies Chabahil, Kathmandu	4912409 4812393		Sunday to Thursday: 50% OFF

Movie Theater	Show Time information via SMS and more
Big Movies, City Center	Type BM and send it to 5001 to get the updated movie schedule.
FCube, KL Tower	Type FCUBE and send it to 3010 to get the showtime.
Guna Cinema	Type CINEMA and send it to 4862 or dial 1618015202777
QFX Civil Mall	Type QFXCM and send it to 4000
QFX Jai Nepal	Type QFXJNC and send it to 4000
QFX Kumari Hall	Type QFXKC and send it to 4000

Gori Tere Pyaar Mein Schedule and Ticket Price

Gori tere pyar mein Hindi Movie - In Theaters From: 22nd November 2013, Friday     Last Updated: 3rd December 2013, Tuesday (Nepal Standard Time)
Language: Hindi, Genre: Romance, Length/Duration: 2 hours 28 Minutes, Cast: Imran Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Anupam Kher

Theater/Cinema Hall Name & Location	Contact Number	Show Time/Schedule	Ticket Price/ Special Offer
Big Movies City Center Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu	4011645 2112233	5th December 2013, Thursday 11:30 AM, 4:10 PM, 8:45 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 11:30 AM, 4:10 PM, 8:45 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 11:30 AM, 4:10 PM, 8:45 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 11:30 AM, 8:45 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 11:30 AM, 8:45 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:45 PM 28th November 2013, Thursday 8:30 AM, 2:15 PM, 5:10 PM, 8:05 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 8:30 AM, 2:15 PM, 5:10 PM, 8:05 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 8:45 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:15 PM, 5:10 PM, 8:05 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 8:45 AM, 11:30 AM, 2:15 PM, 5:10 PM, 8:05 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 9:00 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:45 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:45 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:45 PM, 6:00 PM, 8:45 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM, 11:45 AM, 2:45 PM, 5:45 PM, 8:35 PM	Wednesday All Shows, All Seats: @Nrs. 185 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 160 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 200 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 250 Friday To Sunday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 180 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 250 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 300
FCube, KL Tower Chuchepati, Chabahil	4468700	28th November 2013, Thursday 12:00 PM, 4:15 PM	Morning Shows (8-10 AM): @Rs. 175 everyday 2D @Rs. 225 everyday 3D Tuesday All Shows: @Rs. 175 2D @Rs. 225 3D Monday to Thrursday: @Rs. 250 2D @Rs. 300 3D Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays: @Rs. 300 2D @Rs. 350 3D
QFX Jai Nepal 317 Narayanhiti Marg	4442220 4433275	28th November 2013, Thursday 11:45 AM,6:15 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 11:45 AM,6:15 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 11:45 AM,6:15 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 11:45 AM,6:15 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 11:45 AM,6:15 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 8:30 AM,3:30 PM,7:00 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 8:30 AM,3:30 PM,7:00 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) @Rs. 160 (Silver) Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) @Rs. 210 (Silver) Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Kumari Putalisadak	4442220 4433275	5th December 2013, Thursday 3:15 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 3:15 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 3:15 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 3:00 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 3:15 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 12:15 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 12:15 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 3:30 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 3:30 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 3:30 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 3:30 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM,3:15 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 9:15 AM,12:45 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 290 (Gold) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 340 (Gold) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Civil Mall Sundhara	4442220 4433275	5th December 2013, Thursday 5:30 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 5:30 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 5:30 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 5:30 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 5:30 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 5:30 PM 28th November 2013, Thursday 3:00 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 3:00 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 3:00 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 3:00 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 3:00 PM,6:45 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 8:45 AM,12:00 PM,3:45 PM,7:15 PM,9:00 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 8:45 AM,12:00 PM,3:45 PM,7:15 PM,9:00 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 400 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 470 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 250 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 320 (Platinum) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 450 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 520 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 300 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 370 (Platinum) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF on Platinum Seats only Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF on platinum seats only
Guna Cinema	5200668 2220100 5202777
Asta Narayan Pictures Balaju Bypas	4390207 4350324	28th November 2013, Thursday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM	Rs. 100/150
Gopi Krishna Movies Chabahil, Kathmandu	4912409 4812393	28th November 2013, Thursday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM	Sunday to Thursday: 50% OFF

Movie Theater	Show Time information via SMS and more
Big Movies, City Center	Type BM and send it to 5001 to get the updated movie schedule.
FCube, KL Tower	Type FCUBE and send it to 3010 to get the showtime.
Guna Cinema	Type CINEMA and send it to 4862 or dial 1618015202777
QFX Civil Mall	Type QFXCM and send it to 4000
QFX Jai Nepal	Type QFXJNC and send it to 4000
QFX Kumari Hall	Type QFXKC and send it to 4000

Singh Saab The Great - Schedule and Ticket Rates at QFX, FCUBE, Big Movies and More

Singh Saab The Great Hindi Movie - In Theaters From: 22nd November 2013, Friday     Last Updated: 3rd December 2013, Tuesday (Nepal Standard Time)
Language: Hindi, Genre: Action, Length/Duration: 2 hours 30 Minutes, Cast: Sunny Deol, Amrita Rao, Johny Lever, Prakash Raj

Theater/Cinema Hall Name & Location	Contact Number	Show Time/Schedule	Ticket Price/ Special Offer
Big Movies City Center Kamalpokhari, Kathmandu	4011645 2112233	27th November 2013, Wednesday 5:40 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 5:30 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 5:30 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 5:30 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 5:30 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 9:30 AM, 4:00 PM	Wednesday All Shows, All Seats: @Nrs. 185 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 160 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 200 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 250 Friday To Sunday: Before 10:59 AM - @NRs. 180 11:00 AM to 12:59 PM - @NRs. 250 1:00 PM Onwards - @NRs. 300
FCube, KL Tower Chuchepati, Chabahil	4468700	24th November 2013, Sunday 1:45 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 11:00 AM 22nd November 2013, Friday 12:15 PM	Morning Shows (8-10 AM): @Rs. 175 everyday 2D @Rs. 225 everyday 3D Tuesday All Shows: @Rs. 175 2D @Rs. 225 3D Monday to Thrursday: @Rs. 250 2D @Rs. 300 3D Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays: @Rs. 300 2D @Rs. 350 3D
QFX Jai Nepal 317 Narayanhiti Marg	4442220 4433275		Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) @Rs. 160 (Silver) Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) @Rs. 210 (Silver) Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Kumari Putalisadak	4442220 4433275	23rd November 2013, Saturday 12:00 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 7:15 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 220 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 290 (Gold) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 270 (Gold) 2D @Rs. 340 (Gold) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF
QFX Civil Mall Sundhara	4442220 4433275	24th November 2013, Sunday 12:00 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 2:15 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 2:15 PM	Monday to Thursday: @Rs. 400 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 470 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 250 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 320 (Platinum) 3D Friday to Sunday: @Rs. 450 (Premium) 2D @Rs. 520 (Premium) 3D @Rs. 300 (Platinum) 2D @Rs. 370 (Platinum) 3D Morning Shows on Weekends: 50% OFF on Platinum Seats only Matinee Shows everyday: 25% OFF on platinum seats only
Guna Cinema	5200668 2220100 5202777	5th December 2013, Thursday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 28th November 2013, Thursday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM
Asta Narayan Pictures Balaju Bypas	4390207 4350324	28th November 2013, Thursday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 11:30 AM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM	Rs. 100/150
Gopi Krishna Movies Chabahil, Kathmandu	4912409 4812393	5th December 2013, Thursday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 4th December 2013, Wednesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 3rd December 2013, Tuesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 2nd December 2013, Monday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 1st December 2013, Sunday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 30th November 2013, Saturday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 29th November 2013, Friday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 28th November 2013, Thursday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 27th November 2013, Wednesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 26th November 2013, Tuesday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 25th November 2013, Monday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 24th November 2013, Sunday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 23rd November 2013, Saturday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM 22nd November 2013, Friday 8:20 AM, 11:20 AM, 2:20 PM, 5:30 PM	Sunday to Thursday: 50% OFF

Movie Theater	Show Time information via SMS and more
Big Movies, City Center	Type BM and send it to 5001 to get the updated movie schedule.
FCube, KL Tower	Type FCUBE and send it to 3010 to get the showtime.
Guna Cinema	Type CINEMA and send it to 4862 or dial 1618015202777
QFX Civil Mall	Type QFXCM and send it to 4000
QFX Jai Nepal	Type QFXJNC and send it to 4000
QFX Kumari Hall	Type QFXKC and send it to 4000

"We Feel Excited. You Should, Too": EPA Updates Gowanus Canal Superfund Community Advisory Group On Current Work

EPA Region 2 fact sheet on web site here

Christos Tsiamis, Remedial Project Manager for the Gowanus Canal

John Vetter, archaeological expert and contractor to the EPA

Natalie Loney, EPA Region 2 Community Outreach Coordinator,

Doug Sarno, EPA Gowanus Superfund CAG facilitator

On Tuesday evening, members of the Environmental Protection Agency's Gowanus Canal Superfund Community Advisory Group (CAG) met at Mary Star of The Sea Senior Apartments on First Street.  Christos Tsiamis and Natalie Loney of  EPA Region 2 were on hand to update the CAG on the implementation of the Record Of Decision, which was signed in late September 2013. Also in attendance was John Vetter, archaeological expert and contractor to the EPA

Natalie Loney, Region 2 Community Outreach Coordinator, told members of the CAG about a new document that was created on EPA's final clean-up plan for the Gowanus Canal Superfund site. The fact sheet, made available in English and Spanish, lays out the basic premise of the Record of Decision (ROD).  The information is helpful for those who may not have read the entire ROD document.
You can access all records relating to the Gowanus Superfund here.

John Vetter, archaeological expert and contractor to the EPA, spoke about requirements the EPA will be adhering to in terms of historic preservation. Vetter encouraged members of the community to highlight sites and issues of historical importance that should be considered during the remediation design period for the Canal's cleanup.  He talked about engaging with the CAG's Archeology Committee to determine "what is significant? What is important to you historically?  What do you need a narrative about?  What do you need to have memorialized in appropriate documentation and what do you need in terms of tangible, physical  parameters that might occur as a result of the dredging? What physically do we want to retain?" Vetter asked.  "These are the things that are important."

Christos Tsiamis, Remedial Project Manager for the Gowanus Canal reported that the EPA has recently met with representatives of the 35  Responsible Parties (RPs), which includes New York City and National Grid. Tsiamis and Brian Carr, EPA Region 2's legal council, made a presentation to them on the technical and legal requirements of the Agency going forward. 

According to Tsiamis, "it was a good meeting.  There were a lot of questions.  We now expect to hear back from them on how they intend to proceed.  What that means is that we give everyone the opportunity to sign an Order of Consent. In other words, we will be ordering them to do the work, but it will be done in a collaborative way. We will discuss with them the details and put a path forward, together.  That is our preferred way and we expect to have most of the Responsible Parties respond to that request.  If a RP chooses not to participate, the EPA orders them to do the work they are obligated to do.  The feeling that we got from the meeting was that the majority of the Responsible Parties are willing to work with the EPA."  

Tsiamis stated that some of the smaller RPs have indicated that they will be signing on to the agreement.  "They have the option of signing on as 'participating' or 'non-participating'.  That means that they can hire their own contractors and engineers, and be at all of the meetings.  Or they can say 'we trust that you will do a good job. Send us a bill'.  We think that from now till the end of December, we will have a clear understanding of where those 35 Responsible Parties stand. Going into 2014, we expect to have in place the Orders of Consent."

New York City, one of the major Gowanus Canal RPs, has indicated that it would like an additional meeting with EPA to discuss their obligations in detail and to get a better understanding of what the process entails.  Tsiamis and his team anticipate that they will probably have a similar meeting with National Grid.

Tsiamis also updated the CAG on some activities that have been going on in the Canal. "A lot of work has been going on on the sidelines.  We have been working with some land owners, in particular towards the lower end of the canal, on the restoration of the collapsed historical bulkheads."  Benson Scrap Metal at 543 Smith Street at the canal, is currently restoring its bulkheads and Tsiamis has been actively involved in  looking at their engineering plans.  At the same time, the EPA is in discussions with Greco Brothers Concrete and Bayside Fuel, the companies on either side of the scrap metal yard, to reconstruct their bulkheads.  Both of the companies will be submitting their plans to EPA in the coming months.  "By mid-summer 2014, we are going to have an entire side of the canal, from 9th Street to Hamilton Avenue, that will have totally re-constructed bulkheads," Tsiamis explained. "That will be a great savings to the clean-up project and of great help to the project since we don't have to put temporary bulkheads in front of falling ones.  So that's good news.  It's exciting that there is already work being done. We feel excited about this and you should feel excited about it, too."