The 'Ghost' and the Gray Lady

Multi-talented Ed Park -- novelist, Believer editor, mensch -- is proclaimed the "Wizard of Whimsy" in the Times today for his mischievous weekly newsletter, The New-York Ghost, which occasionally features phantasmal photography by yours truly. (Speaking of photos -- love those raffish forelocks, Ed!)

Another Fifth Avenue Fire

The small emporium of spiritual curiosities on Fifth Avenue and Douglass was burning just now (about 5pm). My favorite Chinese takeout next door was also damaged. Earlier this year another, bigger fire raged just two blocks away. UPDATE: Botanica La Fe was apparently torched in a robbery attempt. The NY Daily News has more. GL UPDATE: A great round-up of coverage and eyewitness stories here.

Obsolescence

“. . . the street finds its own uses for things.” --William Gibson, “Rocket Radio,” 1989

Block Party: St Johns Place

Don't try and drive up St Johns between 5th and 6th tomorrow (Saturday).

Treasure on Our Doorstep

This tantalizing invitation (and look at that monospace print!) was left on our stoop earlier today.