Bowery Boogie | A Lower East Side Chronicle

Thanks to Jeremiah for digging up this trailer for the upcoming Vanishing City film.  Can’t wait!

In the current issue of the Jewish Week, author Sarah Litwin discusses change, gentrification, and preservation in the Lower East Side.  It’s like a Cliffs Notes of the last few years in the neighborhood.
Notable quote:
The appearance of vegan bakeries, trendy boutiques and restaurants in the last five years has changed the neighborhood scenery from the [...]

Walking south down the Bowery these days, you may notice a not-so-subtle change in the skyline.  Indeed, at the corner of Hester Street, the Wyndham Garden Hotel is slowly rearing its concrete head above the low-rise surroundings.  Out of character. Out of context. Out of control.

The plight of Ray’s Candy Store has now reached mainstream local media.  Fox Five was on scene last night, interviewing Ray and some of his customers, including Slum Goddess.

If you are interested in donating money to help Ray, please head over to Paypal and use the email address saverayscandystore@gmail.com.
[via EV Grieve]

In the New York Times N.Y./Region section, author John Vorwald published a Dear John letter to the Lower East Side.  It is one resident’s farewell to the neighborhood he called home for six years. So long, dude.
Dear Lower East Side,
I don’t know how to say this. It’s over. For years I defended you. [...]

The long dormancy period at 95 Delancey is now in its final chapter.  Now that the Community Board 3 meetings agenda for January is live, we have an idea of the new tenant. Rivington Wine & Cheese, Inc. (or some incarnation thereof) will be moving in and seeking a full liquor license.  Will this spell [...]