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August 12, 2006

We’ve Moved!

Oh no! You’ve reached the old site.emoticon No worries, to find out what’s hot and happening in Harlem just click over to:
http://uptownflavor.wordpress.com

Update your feeds, links and bookmarks to: www.uptownflavor.com for our official relaunch, coming May 2007


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August 9, 2006

Location Location Location

If you thought it was hot during the recent heat wave then try following the steamy hot Harlem real estate market.  New post on what’s happening in Harlem over here.  Be sure to change your bookmarks and pardon the dust as we settle into the new digs.

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August 4, 2006

Thank You!

Sending a heartfelt thanks to all the readers who took the time to vote in our recent poll.  It is great to know that there are so many Harlemites using our site as the premier source for up-to-date information about the uptown community. 

As we noted before we want to provide our readers with a better online experience.  This will our second move in 6 months and although our new location still isn’t ideal we are moving closer to the type of site that we envision.  You can help us out by either purchasing a tee shirt from our online store or making a donation using our secure paypal account.  All donations and proceeds will be used to build our own unique domain. You can also help by clicking the links to our advertisers every time you log on.  Every little bit helps.

We are also still seeking advertisers, regular contributors, photographers and publicists to join our team.  Contact us if you are interested at uptownflavor[at]gmail.com or by calling 718-514-2845.

Thank you again for your support and be on the look out for a link to the new site soon.

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August 1, 2006

Living in Harlem

We’d like to find out more about the demographic of our readership. 
Take our quick and easy poll!

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August Events

UPCOMING EVENTS IN HARLEM

 

MACBETH IN MARCUS GARVEY PARK

Dates: August 1, 4 and 5 

Presented by the Classical Theatre of Harlem
Visit the official website for details. 

 _______________________________________________________

RAY GOODMAN AND BROWN, GQ AND MORE
TRIBUTE TO HAL JACKSON
HARLEM SUMMERSTAGE 

Date: August 3
Location:State Building
For details visit Harlem One Stop 

 ________________________________________________________

EMANCIPATION

by Ty Jones
directed by Christopher McElroen
July 12 - August 13, 2006

On the night of August 21, 1831, Nat Turner led a slave rebellion that became a watershed event in America’s long and troubled history of slavery and racial conflict.  With a small band of rebels, Nat Turner wreaked fear and violence in Southhampton County, Virginia in an attempt to strike a crushing blow against the institution of slavery.  Weeks following the bloody rebellion, Turner was captured and gave his confessions to attorney Thomas R. Gray.  Written by and starring CTH company member and OBIE Award winner Ty Jones, EMANCIPATION is a thoughtful, powerful and visceral telling of this pivotal moment in American history.  EMANCIPATION is a new play and is being developed and directed by Christopher McElroen in CTH’s Future Classics Program.

___________________________________________________

HARLEM HISTORIC FILM FESTIVAL

Location: Harlem Meer
Dates: August 2 and 3
For more information visit Harlem One Stop 

___________________________________________________

ARTS IN THE PARKS AT JACKIE ROBINSON PARK

Date: August 5
Visit Jackie Robinson Park Website for details
For the full schedule of events visit City Parks Foundation

 ___________________________________________________

HARLEM RENAISSANCE JAZZ, FILM AND ART IN THE PARK

Visit the official website

___________________________________________________

SLICK RICK AND KOOL DJ RED ALERT

Location: Marcus Garvey Park
Date:  August 10
For more information visit:  City Parks Foundation

__________________________________________________

RIVERSIDE PARK SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Featuring Brasilan Music
Visit the official website for details. 

_____________________________________________

ROMEO AND JULIET AT RIVERBANK STATE PARK
August 3
Riverbank State Park website
Pulse Ensemble Theatre Website
Broadway World website
 

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June 30, 2006

4th of July Weekend Guide

 

Or the guide that wasn’t. Wow, the end of the week and the beginning of a new month.  For those staying in the city over this extended weekend there should be plenty of events to enjoy.  Whatever you decide to get into enjoy yourself and we’ll see you in July.

______________ 

Harlem Meer Performance Festival Presents: SWEET GEORGIA BROWN
Sunday, July 2, 2006, 4:00pm to 6:00pm

The Charles A. Dana Discovery Center
Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues

The Harlem legend billed as "The Last of the Red Hot Mamas" specializes in down-home blues, jazz, and R&B.  The power and energy of her voice are guaranteed to have any audience on its feet, stomping, clapping, and dancing to this soulful song stylist.

For a list of events happening around Harlem visit Harlem One Stop 

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    General, Exhibits & Events, Notes from the Editor, Weekend Guide | Time: 12:33 pm (UTC+8) Comments (1)

June 29, 2006

If You Can’t Stand the Heat

It seems that another Harlem restauranteer possibly couldn’t stand the heat and (may have) hauled it up out of the kitchen.  Bayou, the inconspicious second floor establishment specializing in Louisiana Creole cuisine seems to be in questionable status is closed.  Each time I pass that way it seemed to be closed.  I tried logging onto their website earlier today and it was down but as of a few minutes ago it was active again. Their phone is definitely disconnected with no forwarding number.  I emailed the owner to see if they are open or closed, so if any knowledgeable tipsters have the inside scoop email us at uptownflavor[at]gmail.com.

Update: It seems that the kitchen was too hot for Bayou as evidenced by the commentary in this thread on Curbed.com.

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    General, 125th Street, Notes from the Editor, Closings | Time: 2:05 pm (UTC+8) Comments (1)

Mini-Review: MoBay

After the play "The Winter View," a friend and I decided to have a bite to eat and a cocktail before calling it a night.  We knew that we were a little underdressed for the Harlem Grill so we headed over to The Den.  After seeing the gathering of people waiting for tables outside The Den we continued walking down Fifth Avenue to 125th Street.  We would try either MoBay or Bayou (more about Bayou in the next post) as a last chance effort to cop a cocktail and appetizer. 

As it turned out, the wait wasn’t too long at MoBay so we waited until seats at the bar became available and ordered our cocktails.  My friend and I decided to have appetizers instead of entrees so we stayed at the bar which was lively and energetic.  The band played a long R&B set and people seemed to be enjoying themselves on the warm pre-summer night.

I ordered their special rum punch and my friend ordered a "Change of Attitude" cocktail. Both of us enjoyed our selections. The bar has seating on both sides so it made it easy for us to converse with other patrons.  We compared food items and everyone around us enjoyed what they had ordered. 

A young lady sitting across from us ordered jerk chicken wings that were a bit too spicy for her palate, but she said they were very good and ate them all in spite of her scorched taste buds.  Another young lady ordered cod fish cakes and her friend the catfish strips. My friend and I ordered crab cakes.  The wait was reasonable and the crab cakes were quite good. The outside crust was perfectly browned and crunchy while the inside was full of tasty, well-seasoned crab meat.

Sitting next to us was an Aussie turned Harlemite jazz musician who was listening in on the set of a fellow musician. The vibe was loose, light and less pretentious than expected. I still felt a little underdressed but soon forgot about it amid the conversation and good libations.

Would I go back?  The answer is a resounding yes!  I found MoBay to be a nice hang out spot great for listening to live music and enjoying well mixed (though pricey) cocktails before or after another event.  How would I rate my first visit to MoBay?  I give them three stars out of four for their service, food and ambiance.  How was your experience at MoBay?

Related: Bar Buzz :: Menu :: JC and the Jazz Hoppers

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Uptown Fine Dining Guide

If the local press is any indication it would stand to reason that the rest of the world has just discovered what uptowners already knew. Harlem has more to offer than Sylvia’s and Amy Ruth’s when it comes to dining choices.  The New York Post offers an abbreviated dining guide of a few culinary choices available to savvy uptown diners.
 
Image: Caviartini from Emperor Roe’s  (Post)
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Up Above Uptown

 

More architectural porn to ogle.Today’s Daily News reports that the South Bronx (or SoBro as the real estate agents like to call it) is getting its "first elevator condo building."  Architect Magnus Magnusson,

This is a breakthrough. It will show that the South Bronx is no longer the backwater of New York City.

The apartments will be available through a lottery process. "Seven units are for low-income purchasers - who earn $58,320 or less per year for a family of four. A total of 39 apartments are for middle-income buyers - who earn up to $80,190 annually for a family of four - or moderate-income buyers, who top out at $94,770 for a family of four. Fourteen flats are "market-rate" - with no income restrictions.

Prices are expected to range from around $145,000 for one-bedrooms for low-income buyers to about $325,000 for market-rate three-bedrooms."

Related: Mixed Income Development :: Architectural Porn ::

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The Eastside Snack Attack

 

Summer is the perfect time of year to grab a snack on the go from local street vendors. Fresh fruits like juicy, peeled mangoes, oranges and melons help to beat the oppressive summer heat and keep your body in shape for those sexy summer fashions.  The Village Voice features the best snacks available on the streets of East Harlem.

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June 28, 2006

Fur Favorite Makes the Voice

 
First sniffed out by the lovable Harlem Fur, Posh Paws has caught the attention of the downtown hipsters.  This week’s Village Voice mistakenly reported that the luxury pet store opened last week.  That’s funny, I could have sworn that the furmeister reported they had opened weeks ago….

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Architectural Porn

 

Remember when Curbed mentioned this building the other week.  Well, here is another post-modern doozy soon to grace the skyline of Harlem.  What do you think?  Yea or Nay? (click the links to view.)

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    General, Real Estate, Notes from the Editor | Time: 5:06 pm (UTC+8) Comments (1)

June 26, 2006

Open For Business: Quiznos

First spotted last month the new Harlem Quiznos has quietly opened at 2530 Frederick Douglass Blvd (8th Ave, between 134th & 135th. Interestingly enough, as the franchise seems to grow the company has changed their tag line from "MMMM…Toasty!" to "Eat Up!"

Here is a portion of a note sent by the Harlem franchise owner Rob Stevens:

"First, I want to thank everyone for their well wishes, prayers and support this past week.
 
I opened quietly last week to get my team and store up to speed. We have worked out most of the kinks, and it has been very trying but [what] in life worth having isn’t.
 
And of course we cater. Delivery forthcoming"
 
 
Rob Stevens
CEO- Power Company Inc.

Quiznos Franchisee (Harlem Location)
1-347-645-4337

 


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Sweettooth Wednesdays

 
Moca Bar & Lounge

2210 Frederick Douglass Blvd.
(on the northeast corner of 119th Street ), Harlem, New York, NY  
Afterwork attire/ Casual Chic  
Presented by Rob Stevens’Power Company & Bigga of NiteLife Inc.  
Hosted by Simone of JB Inc.
Music by DJ Lee  

Every Wednesday uptown people can continue to hang out on a weeknight without the traffic, the commute and WITHOUT WATCHIN’ THE CLOCK! 

Drink specials (2 for 1 Martinis/ Well Drinks until 8PM) as well as a free buffet while it lasts!  Delicious food served all night!  The event, like the people must be mature. Guys 25+  Ladies 23+ & I.D. is a must.    
   
Take the A train to 125th Str or C/2/3 trains to 116th Street station, and walk over to Frederick Douglass Blvd. or Metro North to 125th St (cab recommended from there).  
 

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Hip+Hop+ Soda+Shop=Union Square

To some people it just doesn’t seem to add up.  Rapper Juelz Santana and H3 Enterprises plan to open up a second HipHop SodaShop in Union Square this fall.  We started following the launch of this chain of hip hop themed restaurants back in February and have seen the addition of celebrity investors and partners grow each month.  Presently Santana and NBA star Ben Gordon are named as the top two investors.

Originally, H3 Enterprises was slated to start the franchise with a flagship location on 125th Street near the Apollo Theater. However, last week’s Crain’s reported that they will first launch a 3500 square foot location in Union Square, a full 1000 square feet larger than the location in Harlem.  According to a company spokesman, the Union Square location will need less renovation.  The projected date of the grand opening is in two months, although the Crain’s article stated that neither location had finalized their leases yet. H3 Enterprises has already invested more than a million dollars into this project and has their sights set on a location in Florida next.


 

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harlem is…MUSIC

This wonderful series presented by Community Works continues with an exhibition and symposium on June 29 at the Museum of the City of New York.  The exhibition begins at 6:30 p.m and examines jazz, blues, R&B, hip hop, rap, gospel, classical, Latin-Caribbean and fusion. There will be musician honorees, noted journalists and special guests appearances.  The symposium will be moderated by WHCR FM’s Flo Wiley of Black Beat New York.  Admission is complimentary but you must RSVP at 212-459-1854.

 

The Museum of the City of New York
1220 5th Avenue at 103rd Street

June 29
6:30 PM Exhibition viewing
7:00 PM Symposium

 

Also taking place at the Museum of the City of New York is WHITE, BLACK & BLUES presented by the Roger Furman Reading Series and Voza Rivers/New Heritage Theatre Group.  This work in progress musical presentation will be performed by Harlemwood recording artists Lainie Cooke and Paulette McWilliams, freaturing Nat Adderley, Jr., Vincent Herring, Matt Clohesy and Joris Dudli.  Complimentary admission.  RSVP 212-926-2550 or visit the official website of the New Heritage Theatre.

The Museum of the City of New York
1220 5th Avenue at 103rd Street

June 30
7:00 PM

 

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June 23, 2006

Weekend Guide v. 7

Better late than never.  We’re keeping it short and sweet this week.  Lots of outdoor activities happening this weekend.  Check here and as always Harlem One-Stop stays on top of what’s happening in Harlem.  Monday starts the annual Jazzmobile season. There certainly seems to be no shortage of Jazz around Harlem these days. Looking for something to do in Spanish Harlem?  Check the Mosaicos website for a list of upcoming events. As always, enjoy your weekend. Weekend subway advisory.

We welcome our Curbed, Eater  and Greasy Guide readers this week!  Harlem Fur always on the prowl has followed up on a couple of spots mentioned earlier.

Don’t forget to sign up for email notification.

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June 22, 2006

Uptown Flavor Fashion Guide

 
I was working on putting together a post about the many specialty boutiques and retail shoppes that Harlem has to offer, but this writer beat me to the punch.  I have already posted about N Boutique on 116th Street and I also mentioned Montgomery in a past post. 

My piece was going to talk about shops mentioned in the article like Denim Library and B. Oyama both located along 7th Avenue. Pieces neatly tucked away on 135th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues mostly offered an array of fashionable tees when I visited the store shortly before Memorial Day weekend.  Harlemade is easily overlooked due to scaffolding outside of building but they offer a unique selection of branded gear and accessory gifts.  They have recently been joined on the block by Purple Reign, a children’s shoe boutique.

Three stores that were not mentioned in the article that are worth knowing about are Purple Reign, located on Lenox Avenue; Xukuma which is also on Lenox Avenue; and Progressive Unlimited located on 125th Street for years. Features on these boutiques will be forthcoming.

If you have a favorite store that wasn’t mentioned please let us know in the comments section or via email uptownflavor[at]gmail.com. 

Related: Style Profiles :: Sistahs :: Harlem Underground :: Luring Fashionistas :: Budget Fashionista

Photo: Model featured is Jade from "ANTM" 

 

 

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June 19, 2006

Urbanworld Film Festival

Kicking off this week is the Urbanworld Vibe Film Festival.  Locations around the city, including the Magic Johnson Theater, will be showcasing the works of independent filmmakers, as well as hosting workshops, panels and parties.  The festival will run from June 21 through June 25.  Check the website for further details.

Urbanworld [website] 

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June 18, 2006

Father’s Day Weekend Update

Quick list of last minute activities for what is left of this weekend and some events taking place next weekend as well:

  • Father’s Day Skyscraper Harlem Cycling Classic 12 noon Marcus Garvey Park.  Visit the website for more information.
  • Every Saturday from June 17-24 12 noon 4 Theme Tours of the Morris-Jumel Mansion.  Admission is $5.00 for adults, $3.50 for seniors, students and members.  Reservations 212-923-8008
  • American Legion Theatre "Zoro" Saturday June 24th  (no time listed) call for more information 212-283-9701
  • June 25th Jazz in the Spirit on Broadway between 110 and 120th Streets. A 6 piece band with a 12 voice ensemble. Special guests from jazz and gospel communities.
  • "Cultura Con Sabrosura" June 24th 10 pm (doors open at 9 p.m.) $10 call 212-410-2999 or visit the website for details.
  • June 30th Arturo O’Farril and his Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra St. Nicholas Park. No time or contact information list.  Sponsored by the W. Harlem Art Fund, Jazz at Lincoln Center and Sugar Hill Golden Ale.
  • Lenox Lounge Jazz line up all summer long.  Visit their website for details.
  • Hector Mendez Caratini exhibit at El Museo Del Barrio on view from June10-September 10. Visit the website for details.
  • Sister’s Uptown Bookstore has a list of ongoing activities throughout the month of June.  Visit their website.
  • For a list of other activities in and around the Harlem community visit Harlem One Stop.
  • Breaking news…Chowhound is set to get a face lift and become part of CNET [Slash Food]

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Souper Deals and Discounts!

Last week we promised good news that our readers could use.  We just saved a bundle on our…wait, that’s not the news. emoticon  But we do have tips for how you can save a bundle.

Some of your favorite places in Harlem including restaurants, salons and stores are offering discounts to customers who come in with gift certificates from Experience Harlem.  Experience Harlem is a "premium direct program and a soon-to-launch website. [The] Experience Harlem gift certificate booklet will soon arrive in the mailboxes of Harlem’s growing well-heeled consumer base."  Angie Hancock of Experience Harlem tells us:

"The gift certificates are free to consumers.  They are mailed to 10,000 households once a quarter as well as available via the internet." 

 
So, how can UPTOWN flavor readers take advantage of the deals?  Click the link and start spending!

As was previously mentioned, the Original Soupman has opened up a shop farther uptown and is offering 10% discounts to readers of local papers like the Harlem News.  You can pick up a free copy of the Harlem News in stores all around Harlem.  The Soupman has taken out a full page ad that reads, "You came to my store on 55th Street off Eighth Avenue, and now I am coming to Harlem."  The offer expires 8/21/06 so hurry or there will be "no [cheap] soup for you!"

Related: Experience Harlem ::  The Original Soupman ::

Cat: 
    General, New, Specialty Shops, Notes from the Editor | Time: 1:06 pm (UTC+8) Comments (3)

June 16, 2006

Weekend Wrap Up

 
Summer is on and popping!  Although the official first day of summer isn’t until the 21st we are already sizzling with lots of fun activities jumping off all over the city.  Summerstage starts this weekend, Celebrate Brooklyn, Bryant Park’s film festival and concert series and more have already set the bar high for a summer that promises to be muy caliente. We hope everyone gets a chance to go out and enjoy themselves this weekend whether you are spending time with your Father or simply hanging out alone.  Here are a few end of the week links to hold you over until Monday (ummmm, links! Anyone know of a backyard cook out I can crash?)

  • Roving reporters from our favorite Harlem based sites,  Greasy Guide and Harlem Fur, give their take on the new unlimited Wi-Fi initiative for Harlem.
  • Pier 2110 offers tastings this weekend $30 pre fixe [via Greasy Guide]
  • MTA Weekend Service Advisory and NEW podcasts [transittrax]
  • NYU Film Student needs upscale apartment for a film shoot. Read details.
  • Behold, the future of uptown architecture?  Lord, let’s hope not.
  • Pack a picnic lunch and listen to some Jazz on the Meer!*
  • Speaking of jazz, download free music daily…check the right sidebar.
  • The Original Soupman (aka Seinfeld Soup Nazi) now has two locations in Harlem.  [Original Soupman]
  • Special discounts to local Harlem businesses!  More info. on this to come next week.
*late adds

Cat: 
    General, Real Estate, Exhibits & Events, Notes from the Editor | Time: 10:51 am (UTC+8) Comments (1)

June 15, 2006

UPTOWN Fridays Are Back!

THIS FRIDAY @ THE STUDIO MUSEUM IN HARLEM
June 16th 7-11 pm


Hoofers’ House
7-9 pm
Featuring Rashida Bumbray, Omar Edwards, Dormeshia Sumbry Edwards & Tamango

 

In honor of the important place of tap dancing in Harlem’s history,
SMH now serves as a new home for hoofers. Normally Tap dancers- elders
and young people alike are invited to take the floor at these
quarterly jam sessions. This June we will showcase the fine footwork
of a selected few dancers that are slated to burn up the floor with
none other than the very accomplished jazz drummer Ali Jackson and his
trio!

Uptown Fridays! Music, Cocktails, Culture

Featuring DJ Lynnee Bonner
7-11 pm

The weather is beautiful and the Museums courtyard is finally open
for the highly anticipated Uptown Fridays! This season is bound to get
you moving! Dance to the sound of some of the hottest DJs spinning
NYC, connect with others during guided tours, or shop til you drop in
the Museums newly stocked store. Bring a friend and have a cocktail
and conversation. But whatever you do dont miss these fun and festive
evenings of culture in Harlem!

The Studio Museum in Harlem is located at:
144 West 125th Street (between Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. and Malcolm X
Blvds.) New York, NY 10027
Subway: A, B, C, D, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 to 125th Street.
Bus: M-2, M-7, M-10, M-100, M-101, M-102, or BX-15.
Call 212 864 4500 ext 264 for more information

Schedule for the Studio Museum in Harlem [website] 

 

Editor’s Note: A reader says that Chocolat previously mentioned in this post is moving to a larger space. Information is supposed to be on their website.  If you can find it on there you will receive 2 free passes to see "The Winter View" this weekend.

Cat: 
    General, 125th Street, Exhibits & Events | Time: 10:56 am (UTC+8) Comments (2)

Best Bets for a Happy Father’s Day

 
Need a last minute gift for dear old Dad this Sunday?  Visit one of the shops mentioned here. Your best bets are Nubian Heritage or Carol’s Daughter which both sell products geared towards men in earthy scents like sandalwood and patchouli.

If you are looking for something to do with Dad this weekend check the June Events Vol. 2 and Vol. 3.

Best bet?  Take Dad to see the final weekend of The Winter View which is the perfect Father’s Day play. The story is about a father and daughter trying to cope after the loss of the family matriarch.  Surprisingly funny and perfect for all ages it has received the praises of the Harlem community press. The New York Beacon says "The Winter View is a must see!" The Amsterdam News admonishes "Don’t Miss It!"

After the show you can stroll across the street to The Harlem Grill for dinner or dine alfresco.

For more information about the show go here.

THE WINTER VIEW
H.A.D.L.E.Y. Players Theater
Saint Philips Community Center
207 West 133 Street/Seventh Avenue
Runs through June 18th
 

Related: Dance Theater of Harlem Spring Performance

Cat: 
    General, Theatre, Exhibits & Events | Time: 12:20 am (UTC+8) Comments (1)

June 14, 2006

Jewish Harlem

                                       
Sun Jul 9 2006  1:00   

In 1920 there were 200,000 Jews living in Harlem, making it the one of the largest Jewish Diasporas in the world. Come and see some of the most beautiful synagogue buildings in the city, view formerly Jewish institutions, and learn about Harlem’s rich Jewish heritage. Meeting point: JCC. Rain date: Sun, Jul 16.   
Contact Information: 646-505-5708, www.jccmanhattan.org   
Brought to you by: JCC in Manhattan  

 

The JCC in Manhattan  
344 Amsterdam Ave. @ W. 76th St.
Cost: $10 Members, $15 Nonmembers

 

 Related: Columbia Journalist

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June 13, 2006

Museum Mile Comes Alive

  • FREE ACCESS
    to all the museums along the mile
  • 23 car-free blocks
    5th Avenue between 82nd & 105th
  • Live bands
  • Entertainment
  • Art-in-the street
    activities for kids

One day a year, for the past 27 years, nine of the country’s finest museums, all ones that call Fifth Avenue home, collectively open their doors for free to New Yorkers and visitors for a mile-long block party and visual art celebration. This traffic-free, music- and art-filled celebration fills the street and sidewalks of Fifth Avenue from 82nd to 105th street, the mile now officially designated as Museum Mile. Over 50,000 visitors attend the festival annually.

This year’s 28th annual festival kicks off at The Metropolitan Museum of Art with an opening ceremony, at 5:45pm, on the steps of its landmark building on Fifth Avenue @82nd street.

Neighbors of the Museum Mile will have displays at certain points along the mile:
  • Central Park Conservancy - at 84th street, 103rd street
  • Church of the Heavenly Rest - at 90th street
  • Czech Center NY - at 83rd street

Plus, follow the mile with street muralist De La Vega – grab a piece of chalk and make your mark!

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Harlem’s Soul Cinema

Magic Johnson’s 9 screen theater has been the only functioning movie house in Harlem since 2000.  That will change with the arrival of Imagenation’s Soul Cinema which plans to be operational by the end of 2007.  Imagenation plans to open an independent 3 screen art house cinema with a cafe in the new Kalahari development on 116th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues. Although the theater will not be in the prime foot traffic heavy 125th Street corridor, the Kalahari will offer a custom designed, state-of-the-art facility with the added bonus of eliminating the headache of bidding for space in the historic Loews Victoria 5 Theatre.

Established in 1997 by Moikgantsi Kgama and Gregory Gates, Imagenation has actively promoted independent black films through screenings, film festivals and most recently the Revolution Awards.  This year’s awards were part of an effort help raise $1 million towards the new cinema tentatively called the Micheaux Film Center.  Oscar Micheaux, for whom the center is named, is known in film circles as the founding father of independent black cinema.

Business and marriage partners, Kgama and Gates have envisioned this project since they started Imagenation almost 10 years ago. They promoted their vision through community events and poety readings, hosted by Gates, throughout New York.  Within the last few years they have been responsible for organizing a successful film festival that is now an integral part of Harlem Week.

Unlike the Magic Johnson Theaters, Imagenation will not focus on blockbuster hits like the recent Mission Impossible 3 premiere. Instead their mission is to "counteract negative images and stereotypes that are propagated about people of color, through mass media; and, to establish a chain of independent art-house cinemas dedicated to cinema of the African Diaspora."  With the support of grassroots artists including Erykah Badu, Chuck D, India.Arie, Dead Prez, Roger Guenveur Smith, Talib Kweli, Malik Yoba and Dream Hampton, their mission is definitely possible.

Related: Allhiphop.com :: Imagenation :: Hollywood Reporter :: NY1 ::

Cat: 
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The Love Experience

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June 12, 2006

Dining Alfresco

 
P
ronunciation: al-’fres-(")kO
Function:
adjective or adverb
Etymology: Italian
: taking place or located in the open air : OUTDOOR, OUTDOORS <an
alfresco lunch> <an alfresco restaurant>

-Merriam-Webster Dictionary

 
As we quickly move from spring into summer the thought of being stuck inside is suffocating even when the ambiance of the restaurant is lovely. Until the new ViVa restaurant row is completed, here is a list of places in Harlem to dine alfresco. Mangiare bene!

 

  • The River Room formerly known as Earl Monroe’s features a terrace that overlooks the Hudson River facing the George Washington Bridge.
  • Terrace in the Sky located on the campus of Columbia University in Butler Hall, has a rooftop deck that boasts panoramic views of Manhattan.
  • The Den located on the border of east and west Harlem features a patio sitting area in the back.
  • Settepani was one of the first restaurants in Harlem to offer sidewalk seating.
  • Londel’s offers sidewalk seating on the warmest of summer nights.
  • Native Diners should take advantage of the outdoor seating while they are still around.

Where do you go to dine alfresco in Central Harlem? Links to restaurants are located on the right sidebar.

 

Related: A chowhound asks about the bar and grill at 105th and Riverside.

Hudson Beach Café
Riverside Park at 105th Street
New York, NY
(917) 370-3448
 
http://pdohurleys.com/page/rknf/Hudson_Beach_Cafe.html

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Tuesday Night at the Schomburg

 

ART & ACTIVISM: Contemporary LGBT Arts and Protest

State of Politics and Activism in the Black LGBT/SGL Community

Tuesday, June 13, 2006
at 6:00 PM

Langston Hughes Auditorium, Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, 515 Malcolm X Boulevard, (Enter at 103 West 135th Street), New York, NY 10037-1801 (directions)

Samiya Bashir

 

For more information about this event visit the website.  For more events at the Schomburg click here. 

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Deathwatch: Native**

 
Our favorite foodie website Eater is notorious for their surprisingly accurate deathwatches of New York restaurants. Although we don’t want to step on anyone’s toes the recent closings we have reported lead us to present our own exclusively uptown predictions. A tipster is anticipating the next closing to be Native.  As a matter of fact, their website is already down. Due to the fact that I haven’t heard a lot of good reports about this restaurant he could be onto something. What would be even more interesting is the fact that they were recently mentioned in the New York Times article "Where to Eat" back in April. Has this 4 year old restaurant succumb to the tough audiences in Harlem or is it a false alarm? As usual, readers are welcome to chime in on their dining experiences at Native.

*Edit: An intrepid tipster simply known as Flip has informed us that indeed, Native is the next uptown restaurant on the deathwatch.  He found a real estate listing that includes the following information, "Currently operating as the French Moroccan bistro Harlem Native, this restaurant sits at the corner of 116th and Lenox Avenue in the Heart of Harlem…an art gallery is reportedly opening on the block, as is a bakery. Sorry, no nightclubs or bars." Thanks for the great detective work Flip! (see comments section for the rest of Flip’s tip.)

**Edit: In a strange twist of fate, Harlem Fur reports that a tipster informed him the new owner of Native happens to be none other than Melba Wilson of Melba’s!  As if that connection isn’t close enough Melba also happens to be the niece of Sylvia Woods of Sylvia’s.   

A newcomer that soon may be added to the deathwatch is Baton Rouge on 145th Street. It is co-owned by the same people who own Mo Bay and is located in the brownstone formerly known as the Sugar Hill Bistro.  Nothing good has been said about this restaurant on sites like Chowhound and today I noticed that they placed fliers under the windshield wipers of cars in the neighborhood - to drum up business???  Even if the food isn’t any good the drinks sound lovely (see their website). Anyone who has tried Baton Rouge please add your thoughts. Do you think that it can survive the unforgiving palates of Harlemites?

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June 10, 2006

El Dia de Boricuas

National Puerto Rican Day Parade [website]
 
Order yours today and show off your UPTOWN Boricua pride!
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Billie’s Black and Butterfly Blue

Back in April Harlem Fur wrote a lovely review of a little known restaurant called Elle & Lui near 119th Street.  A tipster on his site recently delivered the sad news that Elle & Lui are no more. June 22nd is the scheduled opening of a new "gourmet soul food restaurant."  Oh boy!  Just what we need in Harlem! As a lover of soul food and one who grew up with the savory goodness of homecooked greens and spicy red beans, I am not a huge fan of "gourmet" soul food cuisine. As a writer and a general optimist,  here’s hoping for the best. No name has been given to the new restaurant as of yet.  Naturally, we at UPTOWN flavor will keep you posted.

*update: the new owners kept the old phone number and have a message stating that the new name of the restaurant is Billie’s Black.  Their website is: Billie’s Black.com [website]

Also in April we wrote about a new restaurant called Butterfly Blue but it has pretty much under the rader since then. If any readers have been to B.B. please let us know about your experience.  We found the following from February:

"A cute little cozy restaurant just opened called " Butterfly Blue,"

Located at 1813 Amsterdam Avenue (Near 150th Street) on
Thursday’s, Live Jazz …real Jazz …Great Food! Great Drinks! GREAT
MUSIC! Friendly Atmosphere! You never know who you will see in this spot! 7:00pm - 10:00pm on Thursday’s"


Butterfly Blue Caribbean Style Restaurant
1813 Amsterdam Ave. (Corner 150th Street)
(212) 234 - 5334
No Cover Charge!

Cat: 
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June 9, 2006

Weekend Guide v. 6

 

Looking for something fun and interesting to do this weekend? Well, with the plethora of events already posted on the site, Harlemites and Uptown Hounds alike should have no problem finding something to get into this weekend.  Be sure to check back on Monday for more UPTOWN flavor or sign up for email notification .

Welcome readers from Eater and A Guy in New York!

Enjoy! 

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June 7, 2006

June Events Vol. 3

As noted previously, June is going to be a hot month for events in Harlem.  It is only the 6th of the month and we are on our third volume of events.

HARLEM SPEAKS: OLU DARA
Ernest Barteldes (nypress.com excerpt)

June 8. The Jazz Museum in Harlem (Harlem Speaks Series), 6:30 p.m. FREE

104 East 126th Street between Park & Lexington Avenues
212-348-8300 

Mississippi-born trumpeter and singer Olu Dara (born Charles Jones III) boasts a long, fruitful career as sideman and studio musician since arriving in New York in the early ’70s. But it wasn’t until ’98 (encouraged by his son, the rapper Nas) that he finally earned acclaim with a solo album, In the World: From Natchez to New York. This week, Dara is the featured speaker at The Jazz Museum in Harlem’s “Harlem Speaks series,” sharing his explorations in Southern blues, Caribbean fusion, jazz and other genres.

__________________
17th ANNUAL MT. MORRIS PARK HISTORIC HOUSE TOUR
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Tours start at Pelham Fritz Recreation Center
Marcus Garvey Park
W. 122nd Street & Mt. Morris Park West
(one block east of Lenox Avenue)

11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Self-Guided House Tours
 Tour approximately 12 distinctive homes

11:00 a.m. - Guided Tour of Marcus Garvey Park
(including Landmark Fire Watch Tower)

12:00 Noon and 2:00 PM - Guided Walking Tours
Highlighting the fascinating architecture and cultural history of the neighborhood led by Harlem Historian, John Reddick.

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM - Jazz in Harlem
 Music and Refreshments in local business venues along Lenox Avenue

Tickets: $25.00 in Advance; $30.00 Day of Tour

To order tickets - Please send e-mail to mtmorrispa@aol.com or purchase online.
 
Official website: http://www.harlemmtmorris.org/events.htm
 
___________________ 

THE 8TH ANNUAL FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL

A series of events taking place throughout the month of June at the Riverside Theatre.  Visit their website for details. Official Website [Riverside Church]

__________________

The Harlem Branch of the New York Public Library will be hosting a series of events throughout the summer. The Harlem Branch is located at 9 West 124th Street between 5th Avenue and Malcolm X Boulevard.

  • The NEW Harlem Book Discussion meets every third Saturday at 11 AM.  Books to be discussed include, John Henry Days by Colson Whitehead (June 17), Seven Guiters by August Wilson (July 15), Don’t Erase Me by Carolyn Ferrell (Augus 19). Sign up at 212-348-5620. 
  • A Visionary with a Voice: artwork of Wispa Hendricks June 17th at 2:00 p.m. for an Artist Talk in conjunction with the exhibit which is up from June 5-19.
  • Learn to Draw: Individualized Instruction with Janet Henry.  Thursday June 8-29 at 4:00 p.m.  All materials will be provided.  For ages 12-18.
_________________ 

RANGEL RECEPTION AT BATON ROUGE 

With a special private performance by Jive Records Recording  Artist RAHEEM
(http://www.theloveexperience.com/index_main.html)  DEVAUGHN   singing Hits
from His New Album "Guess Who Loves You  More" including "You".  
In 2006 MAKE  HISTORY with CONGRESSMAN CHARLES B. RANGEL
Congressman  Rangel is raising funds to help win the 15 seats necessary for
the  Democrats to regain control of the House of Representatives. In a 
Democratic Majority, Congressman Rangel will make history as the  first
African-American and the first New Yorker since 1881 to Chair the  Ways and Means
Committee. 
Ways and Means  is regarded by many as the most powerful of the twenty
standing Congressional  Committees, with broad jurisdiction over taxes, trade,
healthcare, and  Social Security. 
A Democratic  majority will mean that members of the Congressional Black
Caucus will  chair an unprecedented four of the twenty standing committees in
Congress and  fourteen sub-committees, dramatically reshaping the position  of
African-Americans in national leadership.  
Join this great  effort now to make history together.
 
RSVP to Joe  Barnes at Batonrougeny1@aol.com or call (917)496-4111 Sign up
online  via http://www.charlierangel.org (http://www.charlierangel.org/)  by
clicking on contribute and  including “Baton  Rouge” in the note field. 
________
EVENT  DETAILS:
Friday, June 16,  2006 
5:30 pm –  Chairman’s Reception (Open Bar & Appetizers)
6:00 pm – Live  Music Reception  (Open Bar & Appetizers)
At  the hottest new place in Harlem,  
Baton Rouge Restaurant  & Lounge
458 west 145th Street
(Between Convent & Amsterdam) 
Village of  Harlem 

_________________

ELEGBA BAR B-Q PICNIC 

June 25th from 11 A.M. to 7 P.M. in Marcus Garvey Park (124th and Madison)

Bring your own food, grills, cakes, pies, watermelons and games.  Bring your drums and shekeres to make music.  For more information contact Baba Oba 212-283-4035 or Iya Pat 212-926-9627 or you can email: egbejagunjagun@yahoo.com

__________________

HARLEM BRIDAL SHOW
Event: Harlem Weddings, the Bridal Show
Date: June 25th, 2006
Time: 1-6 PM
Venue: Tribal Spears Gallery
Location: 2167 Frederick Douglass Blvd, New York 10026

Event will feature:
FREE Gifts Bags
Free Bridal Magazines
Live Performance
DJ Showcase
Food Sampling
Fashion Show: Traditional and African American wedding gowns, Tuxedos
Website: www.theharlemexpo.com/BridalShow.hmt

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South Beach Cafe

In one of yesterday’s posts we tried to get the low down on the South Beach Cafe on the corner of 124th Street and Lenox Avenue.  An in the know reader was kind enough to give us the back story:

"I live right around the corner from South Beach and we chatted with them a few times. They have been waiting for inspection clearance from the state of NYC so that they can open up. It’s been difficult to keep a spot open on the corner. The name and management has changed 3
times sinces I’ve been in NYC. It was DME’s, then Stono’s, so now
it’s South Beach but who knows when they will ever open."

Cat: 
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Genesis II Museum of International Black Culture

In a previous post we unearthed a treasure trove of hidden cultural gems in Harlem.  On a sunny afternoon I happened to stop into what might be considered a cultural gold mine.  If you think that the only culture left in Harlem is safely enclosed behind the walls of the Schomburg or within the halls of the Studio Museum you haven’t been to the Genesis II Museum of International Black Culturel.

Tucked into a narrow doorway off of Seventh Avenue, Genesis II is a labor of love curated by Andi Owens.  Although I wasn’t able to tour the museum the day I dropped in, I did chat briefly with Mr. Owens. He informed me that he had just closed an exhibit called "Black Goddesses: Achievements Against the Odds."  The exhibit focused on women like Ida B. Wells, Zora Neale Hurston and Josephine Baker.

The museum houses multiple galleries and exhibits including the African Sculpture Court, The Artists Gallery, The Archives Collection Store Room and the Museum Store.The museum also offers traveling exhibitions for loan to libraries and schools. 

Genesis II is located at 2376 Adam Clayton Powerll Boulevard at 139th Street. Phone (212)690-3800.  Public viewing hours are Thursday-Sunday 11 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Admission is $5.50 and $1.50 for children.  Use Hop Stop for public transportation directions. 

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Best Bakery in Harlem

 
Someone recently entered a search query for the "Best Bakery in Harlem."  Of course the "best" is totally subjective and up for debate.  It also depends on what type of baked goods you are looking for. 

The editor’s choice for the best Red Velvet Cake in Harlem hands down is Make my Cake on Seventh Avenue.   Others, (like Oprah’s best friend Gayle King), prefer the Coconut Caramel cake at Wimp’s and now there is a new contender T&J’s offering their own selection of specialties.

There has also been quite a bit of discussion about the virtues of Settepani on sites like Bagel in Harlem, and Curbed.  Since this Harlemite has not tried their baked goods I will have to defer and ask the readers to chime in on this topic. 

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June 6, 2006

The Low Down on Restaurants, Lounges and Cafes

It seems that Harlem has joined the flux of the typical Manhattan restaurant business game of now you see it, now you don’t.  First the news about Earl Monroe pulling out of his restaurant deal and now the news that Chocolat has shuttered it’s windows and bolted the doors for good after only a year.  I’d just read a Gawker piece from February ‘05 about Toccara from America’s Next Top Model being spotted in the formerly trendy lounge for their opening festivities.  Then today, Mike Street of the Greasy Guide informed me that they had closed.  The phone number has been disconnected with no referring number but the website is still live.  If there are any readers who happen to know the back story send an email to  uptownflavor[at]gmail.com.

I dropped by Nubian Heritage this afternoon and was surprised to see the many changes they have made to the store’s layout.  Most of the merchandise has been cleared out and Boma cafe had taken over half of the store.  Boma has expanded their menu items to include a selection of South African wines.  A couple of months back Reef had mentioned a wine tasting but I thought it was just a one time event.  Apparently not.  In addition they have a small selection of beers, as well as their African inspired blends of coffees and teas.  Boma will also be the headquarters for the upcoming Harlem Public Art Fest later this summer.

Boma is located at 2037 Fifth Avenue.  Call (212)427-8668 

A few blocks over on West 124th Street and Lenox Avenue I finally got the chance to investigate the mysterious South Beach Cafe.  Regular readers know that the brightly colored, island exterior caught the eye of our editor back in April. As it turns out they are presently closed but plan to open sometime later this month.  They didn’t have a menu yet but did have an attractive menu of smoothies and juices.  Fresh squeezed juices will come in two sizes, small for $2.75 and a large for $3.25 in flavors like AM Lift, Detox, Green Goodness and Purple Passion. They will also offer organic coffees and teas at reasonable prices and a selection of smoothies ranging from from $3.00 to $4.00.

South Beach Cafe is located at 100 West 124th Street and Lenox Avenue (212)222-1995/222-7290.  The hours will be from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily and they will offer delivery with an $8 minimum.

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June 5, 2006

Harlem’s Got the Juice!

 
Who says that the only good stuff in Harlem is deep fried? Although we have yet to see our first Jamba Juice franchise in Harlem that doesn’t stop residents from indulging in the tasty goodness of fresh squeezed juices on the go. Many Caribbean restaurants offer a variety of fresh juices like carrot (with ginger or milk), pineapple, and lemonade and fruit juices with ginger. As summer approaches, juice bars are where Harlemites will seek refuge from the heat.  If there is a favorite juice bar in your area that is not listed here, email uptownflavor[at]gmail.com to have them added:
 
Uptown Juice Bar *
54 West 125th St. (5th/Lenox)
212-987-2660
http://www.uptownjuicebar.com

Strictly Roots
2058 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd (7th Ave.) between 122& 123 St.
212-864-8699
http://www.strictlyroots.net

Strawberry Restaurant
7th Avenue/138th Street
Under new management they recently started advertising a juice bar

Reggae Delight Juice Bar
135th and 7th Ave.
This inconspicuous hole in the wall was a surprise to find and tends to stay busy

Cafe Society
2104 Frederick Douglas Blvd.
212-222-3323
http://www.societycoffee.com
Not "officially" a juice bar but they do offer a selection of fresh
squeezed juices and smoothies.

Raw Soul
348 West 145 Street (St. Nicholas & Edgecombe)
Harlem, New York
212-491-5859

Watkins Health Food
54 W 125th St (at 5th & Lenox Ave, Harlem,Manhattan, NY 10027
212-831-2955
Hours: 9 am to 8 pm

Long Life Vitamin
18 W. 125th St., Harlem (Betw. 5th & Madison Aves.)
212-369-9650
Hours: M-F 9:30-6:30, Sat 10-6

Polanco Restaurant
2421 7th Ave. (141st St)
212-862-1090
A take out spanish comida with a functional juice bar offering jugo naturales

Papaya King
121 West 125th Street
Btwn. Lenox and Adam Clayton Powell
http://www.papayaking.com/
 
LATE ADDS:
 
Organic Forever
2053 8th Avenue at 111th Street
212-666-3012 
Juice Bar and Organic Groceries
http://www.organicforever.com/ 
 
Karrot
304 West 117th St. between FD and Manhattan
Another Brooklyn transplant that has made the move uptown. The owner was caught up in the Harry Potter book scandal a few years back if you remember.
via Harlem Fur 
 
*Selected the BEST OF UPTOWN by our readers! 
 
Related: Vegan Restaurants…
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Harlem Wing & Waffle - Review

There is no waffling about it, Harlem Wing & Waffle is quickly becoming a favorite neighborhood take out spot.  Since April when we first spotted this independently owned restaurant, we have stopped in to taste their offerings twice. The first time I ordered the snack pack.  You get 2 wings and 2 waffles for $2.99.  The chicken was well seasoned and fried to perfection. The waffles were small and nothing to write home about but then again it was called the snack pack.  The portions were just enough to curb my hunger without leaving me stuffed. They also offer a larger version called the "meal" for $5.99.  The meal has 4 wings and waffles.

The next time I stopped into Harlem Wing & Waffle I wasn’t in the mood for waffles so I ordered the 6 piece wingette for $3.99.  Although the plain wingettes I ordered were not as well seasoned as the wings I had with the wings and waffles, they were again fried crispy and quite good.  There were a few baby carrots and celery sticks to accompany the chicken.  The wingettes come in 6, 12, 24 and 50 piece options and can be ordered with a choice of sauces.

Other menu items were chicken fingers in a large and small size and waffle fries.  They also have their own brand of bottled sodas that come in cream, black cherry, root beer, and uptown orange. I happened to notice on my second visit that they mix their waffles fresh on the premises. In my opinion, this business is ripe for growth as a chain of franchises over time.  They already have the branding and they offer products that are unique to their company.

Harlem Wing & Waffle is located on Seventh Avenue and 140th Street. They close at 10 pm during the week and earlier on Sundays.  212-281-1477.

Editor’s Note:

Website: Harlem Wing & Waffle 

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June 2, 2006

June Events: Addendum

Mafrika Festival

Date: Sunday, June 4th
Time: 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Marcus Garvey Park (122th St at 5th Ave)
Cost: Free
Summary: Dancers, MCs, and musicians invade Marcus Garvey Park for a pan-african celebration of music and culture. Notable acts include Senegalese rappers Daara-J and Antibalas lead singer Amayo’s new project Fu-Arkist-Ra… full program here.

Related: Amsterdam News:: 

 

Editor’s Note: location and other errors corrected…thanks Jaye 

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June Events - Vol. 1

 

With the unofficial launch of summer behind us, UPTOWN flavor is busy
trying to keep up with the many summer events that take place uptown.
Below is the first volume of June events.  If you have an event
you want to post to
UPTOWN flavor, send it to uptownflavor[at]gmail.com

This week’s weekend guide provided in part by Harlem One Stop:
Friday - Sunday, and then, some…

A WEEKEND filled with history, architecture, art, music and
gastronomic delights..

FRIDAY: Straight Out of Harlem, A Creative Outlet - First Friday
Series, Remembering Johnny Hartman

Join us for a special evening as we celebrate Johnny Hartman–the man
and his music.
Special performance by Lori Hartman and photography of Bill May.
Friday, June 2, 2006 from 5 - 7 pm
704 St.Nicholas Avenue @ 145th Street
RSVP at 212-234-5944

www.straightoutofharlem.com

SUNDAY: 18th Annual Hamilton Heights House & Garden Tour

An annual fundraiser by the Hamilton Heights Homeowners Association to
benefit youth organizations in the community and a unique opportunity
to see the interiors of a dozen remarkable houses in one of Harlem’s
most distinguished landmark neighborhoods. This is a self-guided tour.

Tickets: $25.00 each and may be purchased at start of tour at the
Hamilton Grange National Memorial, 287 Convent Ave at W. 141st Street.
Sunday, June 4, 2006 11a.m. to 4 p.m.

www.hamiltonheights.org

_________________

SATURDAY: Walking Tour - Central Harlem: Lenox Ave - 125th Street

Join us for a 90-minute stroll along two of Harlem’s most famous and
historic streets: Lenox Avenue, the neighborhood’s premiere boulevard,
and bustling 125th Street, the pulse of Harlem, Mecca of Black
America. Tour will highlight neighborhood history and landmarks and
the new Harlem.
Saturdays at 11:15 a.m.
$15.00 per person.
RSVP suggested 212-658-9160
Meet Guide at Lenox Avenue and 116th, SE corner. Subway: #2, #3 to 116th.

www.harlemonestop.org

_________________

FRIDAY: CAMP LOGAN - FREE

On December 11, 1917 thirteen black soldiers from the 3rd Battalion of
the US 24th Infantry regiment were hanged.  These soldiers were heroes
on July 28th.  How had they come to this tragedy 18 weeks later? Camp
Logan explores the events that led to the "Houston Riot of 1917,"
thought to be one of the saddest chapters in the history of American
race relations.

Date: Friday, June 2, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Place: Museum of the City of New York 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd St
Price: Complimentary Admission RSVP 212-926-2550

website: http://www.newheritagehtheatre.org

_________________

SATURDAY: EL BARRIO WEEK - Galeria 106 Art/Health Expo

The third annual Galeria 106 open-air art exhibition takes on an added
dimension this year with the inclusion of a health fair, enabling
community families to receive health services and information.
Saturday, June 3 • 11 AM–7 PM
Free
Abrazo Fraternal del Barrio, Inc.
159 East 116th Street
New York, NY 10029
212.289.3871; pspromo@aol.com

EL BARRIO WEEK - PERFORMANCE FLAMENCO LATINO

Kick off El Barrio Week (June 3 -13) with Flamenco Latino, as they
present the music and dance of Spanish Flamenco and the Afro-Caribbean
roots of salsa. The troupe combines the strength of somber Flamenco
brazeo, intricate palmas and intense footwork with their flair for the
hip-swiveling movements and mean rhythms of salsa. Presented in
collaboration with Community Works and New Heritage Theatre Group, in
association with the Harlem Arts Alliance.

Free with suggested Museum admission contribution. Free for people who
live or work in East Harlem.
Saturday, June 3 • 2:00 PM
Museum of the City of New York
1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd Street
New York, NY 10029
212.534.1672
www.mcny.org

EL BARRIO WEEK - El Barrio Week Tour with Artist Yasmín Hernández

Artist Yasmín Hernández presents an in-depth tour and discussion of
Soul Rebels, her site-specific installation featuring eight portraits
of musicians and poets, and Between the Lines: Text as Image. An
Homage to Lorenzo Homar and The Reverend Pedro Pietri. Hernández will
discuss how the arts serve as a vehicle for social change while
providing a look inside the cultural and political history that shaped
the work of the featured artists.
Saturday, June 3 • 2:00 PM
Admission: Free. No registration required.
El Museo del Barrio
1230 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10029
www.elmuseo.org

EL BARRIO WEEK - SEMILLA

Mexican Folkloric Music performed by an emerging collective of young
Mexican artists dedicated to the study and promotion of "Son Jarocho"
and "Son Huasteco." This lively music is danced mostly in festivals,
on streets and parks of the coast of Veracruz and other neighboring
towns. Not only can you dance to these sounds, but every song tells a
hilarious and/or dramatic story that makes this type of performance a
whole interactive experience! Truly exciting — everyone ends up
dancing!

Saturday, June 3 • 9:00 PM
Art for Change
Carlito’s Café y Galeria
1701 Lexington Avenue (between 106th and 107th)
212.534.7168
www.artforchange.org

UPTOWN ART STROLL - WASHINGTON HEIGHTS/INWOOD

May 31 - June 18th. In four years, the annual Uptown Arts Stroll has
grown from a one-day event that primarily attracted visual artists to
a three-week extravaganza that offers a rainbow of visual and
performing arts. This is a testament to the growing arts community in
Washington Heights and Inwood and to the support that Northern
Manhattan’s residents and organizations have given to the effort. The
bridges built between the different segments of our population become
stronger the more we work together on common goals. In this way, art
serves as a universal language.

The website — a collaborative effort of WaHI Online, WaHIarts.com and
The Manhattan Times — gives you an overview of the events and venues
where the 2006 Uptown Arts Stroll lives and breathes. The website also
lists the artists, arts groups and sponsors whose inspiration,
perspiration, and contributions have resulted in an event that can
make all Northern Manhattanites proud.

noon - 5 pm
Mural Painting
Inwood Community Services, 651 Academy St. near Broadway
Young people working with D-aRts Youth Organization and art educators
will continue to work on their community mural.

11 am - 5 pm
Top of Form – Student Artwork and Tag Sale
P.S./I.S. 187 School Yard, 349 Cabrini Blvd., north of W. 187th St.
(Rain date: 10 June)
Portraits and still lifes by 6th, 7th and 8th graders.

noon - 5 pm
Art in the Garden (Inwood)
RING Garden, Broadway, Dyckman St., Riverside Dr. (Rain location: Holy
Trinity Episcopal Church, 20 Cumming St. near Broadway, 212-567-1177)
Outdoor art exhibits and performances. Curator: Elizabeth Popiel,
scenicdesigner[at]hotmail.com

noon - 5 pm
Open Studio – René de los Santos
121 Sherman Ave. bet. Dyckman and Academy Sts.
Paintings.

noon - 5 pm
Open Studio – Hersilia Méndez
222 Seaman Ave., E-8, at Indian Rd., 212-569-2866
Painting and sculpture.

noon - 6 pm
Open Studio – Charles Ramsey and Yori H. Ramsey
33 Vermilyea Ave., Apt 3E, bet. Dyckman and Academy Sts., 212-567-8640
Paintings.

1-3 pm
Opening Reception and Poetry Recital
Washington Heights Branch Library, 1000 St. Nicholas Ave. at W. 160th
St., 212-927-3533
Artwork by Community Arts Showcase. more info »

1-6 pm
Lobby Show
77 Cooper St. at W. 207th St., 646-796-9798
Internationally known tapestry artists will exhibit woven works, both
miniature and mural.
www.artstroll.com

SUNDAY: UPTOWN ART STROLL - WASHINGTON HEIGHTS/INWOOD

June 4, noon - 5 pm
Opening Reception
Office of City Council Member Robert Jackson, 751 W. 183rd St. near
Ft. Washington Ave., 212-928-1322
Artwork by members of the Union of Dominican Visual Artists. more info »

noon - 6 pm
Open Studio – Charles Ramsey and Yori H. Ramsey
33 Vermilyea Ave., Apt 3E, bet. Dyckman and Academy Sts., 212-567-8640
Paintings.

2-4 pm
Outdoor Music – The Renaissance Street Singers
Fort Tryon Park. Take the footpath from Margaret Corbin Circle, walk
straight north on the path until you come to the big stone steps.
www.artstroll.com

MONDAY: UPTOWN ART STROLL - WASHINGTON HEIGHTS/INWOOD

June 5th, 8 pm dinner, 9 pm showtime
"Bridging Souls … with Music"
Coogan’s Restaurant, 4015 Broadway at W. 169th St., 212-928-1234
A night of cabaret with Broadway performers to benefit The Actors’
Fund of America. Hosted by Broadway singer and actor James Stovall.
$12/$15.
www.artstroll.com

TUESDAY - WEDNESDAY: UPTOWN ART STROLL - WASHINGTON HEIGHTS/INWOOD

June 6, Tuesday
6-8 pm
Opening Receptions in Inwood
Manhattan Times, 5000 Broadway (entrance on W. 212th St.), 212-569-5800
two07art Gallery, 634 W. 207th St. at Cooper St., 212-304-0621
Photographs from the Union of Dominican Visual Artists (with special
guest Mike Fitelson), paintings by Gabriel Marchisio, and a group
show. More info: Manhattan Times, two07art Gallery.

June 7, Wednesday
noon - 2 pm
Classical Chamber Music Concert
Fort Washington Collegiate Church, W. 181st St. at Fort Washington Ave.
Dr. Benjamin Metrick on piano and friends performing the Music of
Camille Saint Saens, Johannes Brahms, and more.

 
6-9 pm
Opening Reception and Rooftop BBQ
Rio Gallery, 10 Ft Washington Ave. bet. W. 159th and W. 160th Sts., 212-568-2030
"Impedimenta": paintings by Natasha Rubirosa curated by José Reyes. more info »

and more… check WEBSITE

www.artstroll.com

 ______________

DREAM GIRLS
Harlem Repertory Theatre
When: June 23 through August 13
Price: Free Will Offering
Official Website: HarlemRepertoryTheatre.org



NEFETARI BEY
The Harlem Tea Room
June 23; 7:30 and 9:00 shows
Official Website: www.NefetariBey.com



THE WINTER VIEW

H.A.D.L.E.Y. Players Theater
Saint Philips Community Center
207 West 133 Street/Seventh Avenue
Runs through June 18th

_______________

The Heart of New York City is keeping ear to the hottest DJs and
rappers in the streets with the 3rd annual Street Conference, which
will be held June 7-9 at The Historical National Black Theater of
Harlem on 125th Street.

Honorees will include DJ Green Lantern for "Breakthrough DJ," Jim
Jones for "The Hustle Hard Like Russell Simmons Honor," dirty laundry
reporter Wendy Williams for the "Female On-Air Personality Honor,"
Busta Rhymes for "Honor Best Stage Show Entertainer," and Fat Joe for
"Honor Pete Latino Making Moves," to name a few. Just a thought: their
idea of "making moves" is obviously that of retrospect.

With "SMACK DVD" being another honoree, the event will appropriately
include one-on-one freestyle battles, and panels which feature advice
on how to get a good buzz going like your boy Papoose, who took home
the 2005 Street Artist of the Year. Although it’s not clear who they
will be giving the crown to this year, lack of mixtape domination and
slow-mode grinding from much of the other underground cats will
probably point to yet another Papoose win–or maybe even Remy Ma.

Yup! The Mecca of Hip-Hop is strictly on their New York ish this June.
With events like the Brooklyn Hip-Hop Festival (Lupe Fiasco and more),
the Rhino concert in Central Park (Common and more), the Puerto Rican
Day Parade, and the Hot97 Summer Jam (too many to name) following
suit, summer in NY is sure to be on and poppin.’

__________________

TUESDAY: June 20 - 6:30 p.m. $12

Harlem with Barry Lewis

If you enjoy watching the wonderful city tours on PBS then this is the tour for you.  Barry Lewis will be conducting an evening talk and slide presentation about Harlem courtesy of the New York Historical Society. Visit the website for more information.

http://www.nyhistory.org 

___________________

THROUGH OUR EYES: THE LIFE OF A TEEN ACTIVIST IN NEW YORK

A multimedia exhibition made by youth for youth depicts the struggles and victories of youth activists in New York. Told in a graphic novel style using audio, video, photos and activities.

May 25-June 18, 2006
Monday to Sunday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m
The Riverside Church
91 Claremont Avenue between 120th and 122nd Streets
Price: FREE 

For more information call 212-283-7044 

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UPTOWN Enterprise

Two hot Harlem businesses featured in the June issue of Black Enterprise magazine: 

Katrina Parris Flowers and Harlem Lanes. 

Also featured, articles about Carver Bank and Top Chefs.

 
Listen: NPR Podcast on B.E. 

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    General | Time: 4:36 pm (UTC+8) No Comments »

Imagenation

Friday, June 2, 2006 at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. Dead Prez and a slew of other artists are performing at Imagenation’s Revolution Benefit Concert and Awards Show at The Apollo Theater.

Use the Imagenation discount code #0601 (via Ticket Master or at the Apollo Theater Box Office) and you’ll get $15 OFF all $50 seats. Tickets are $35 and $50. This offer expires Thursday, June 1. Get your tickets NOW!
Join us for performances by Dead Prez, Martin Luther, Burnt Sugar Arkestra Chamber, Imani Uzuri, and Kameko this fundraiser. Proceeds will benefit the opening of the Imagenation Soul Cinema, Harlem’s first and the nation’s only independent cinema dedicated to films from the African and Latino Diaspora.






2006 REVOLUTION! Benefit Concert
and Awards FRIDAY, JUNE 2, 2006

Hosted by fashionista Michaela angela Davis and M1, this benefit concert and awards ceremony at The Apollo Theater will feature performances by dead prez, Martin Luther, Burnt Sugar Arkestra Chamber, Imani Uzuri, and Kameko. Preceded by an invitation only NYC premiere of the Starz In Black Original "DEAD PREZ: IT’S BIGGER THAN HIP HOP" (with a Q & A panel discussion).

The Revolution Awards are presented to artists and industry leaders of color who use their works to inspire social change, help foster solidarity throughout the African Diaspora, blaze new trails or exemplify a dedication to independent cinema.

This year’s recipients include

Warrington Hudlin (Founder of the Black Filmmaker Foundation and DVRepublic)

Lee Daniels (Film producer - Monster Ball)

dead prez (Hip-Hop activist)

Keith Beauchamp (Filmmaker - The Untold Story of Emmett Louis Till)

Thomas Allen Harris (Filmmaker - The Twelve Deciples of Nelson Mandela).

Previous recipients include Chuck D, Stanley Nelson, Erykah Badu, Roger Guenveur Smith, Talib Kweli, Sherry Simpson Dean and Joe Brewster.

AKILA WORKSONGS is one of the co-sponsors of this event



Who is ImageNation?
Click on this link for info and discount tickets
http://www.imagenation.us/pages/main.htm

Imagenation, a Harlem-based organization, was established in 1997 to counteract negative images and stereotypes that are propagated about people of color, through mass media; and, to establish a chain of independent art-house cinemas dedicated to cinema of the African Diaspora. Imagenation uses independent cinema and progressive music to foster media equity, solidarity and cross-cultural exchange throughout communities of color worldwide, with special foci on the USA and South Africa.

SOUL CINEMA SUPPORT COMMITTEE:
ANGELIQUE KUDJOE, BLACK THOUGHT, CHARLES STONE III, DANNY GLOVER, DANNY SIMMONS, DAVE CHAPPELLE, DEAD PREZ, DJ JAZZY JEFF, EILEEN NEWMAN, EMIR LEWIS, ERYKAH BADU, ESSIE CHAMBERS, JACQUIE JONES, KAY SHAW, KEITH A. BEAUCHAMP, KISHA IMANI CAMERON, LEE DANIELS, LUCILLE L, MCEWEN, MAHEN BONETTI, MICHAELA ANGELA DAVIS, MOS DEF, NAS, NELSON GEORGE, RAOUL PECK, ST. CLAIRE BOURNE, STACY SPIKES, THEMBA SIBEKO, THOMAS ALLEN HARRIS, TRACY MOORE MARABLE, VOZA RIVERS, WARRINGTON HUDLIN and growing.


WHAT: Imagenation REVOLUTION! at the Apollo w/dead prez preceded by an invitation only NYC premiere of a Starz In Black Film DEAD PREZ: IT’S BIGGER THAN HIP HOP
WHEN: June 2nd at 8pm (doors open at 7pm)
WHERE: The Apollo Theater, 253 W. 125th Street,NYC (btw 7th & 8th Ave.)
WHO: Presented by Imagenation in association with the Apollo Theater
WHY: Benefit to open the Imagenation Soul Cinema
DON’T MISS OUT! GET YOUR DISCOUNTED TICKETS TODAY!
Click on the link below for discount tickets
http://www.imagenation.us/pages/main.htm




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    General, Exhibits & Events | Time: 4:35 pm (UTC+8) No Comments »

May 31, 2006

Ad

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May 29, 2006

Stand-by

The countdown has begun for the relaunch of UPTOWN flavor.  Same great content with a sexy new look!  Growing and moving UP in this town!  Sign up for email notification of the new launch date.

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