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March 10, 2009
Open Thread
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guess who totally wiped out walking down the hill on (garfield i believe) and 4th ave in front of that construction site? slipped and fell right to my knees in a pile of mud. i hope it was mud. it's all over my pants! some guy asked if i was okay i said yes. then this construction guy (didnt realize he was a construction guy on the site at first) actually giggled and then mumbled something.
note to construction sites: either clean up your skanky mess on the public sidewalk OR block it off and tell people to cross the street.
i know im a horribly clumsy person who probably trips and falls at least twice a month, but still. im a bit of a rough and tumble kind of person so it's not problem to me if i fall but it could have been some old lady!
i am CONSTANTLY tripping and falling down the hill between between 5th and 4th ave no matter which block i choose to go down. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!
*rob*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 9:23 AM
rob, you did just fall over recently on the ice if I remember. You have to stop prancing around, think about making footfall a solid thwack sound.
I know you like to come here just to get told off.
Posted by: dittoburg at March 10, 2009 9:26 AM
http://www.improvelife.com/Sale/Walkers?OVRAW=walkers&OVKEY=walkers&OVMTC=standard&OVADID=4202867511&OVKWID=11607239011
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 9:27 AM
Hey Dumbasses Ben Bernanke is on CNBC and Bloomberg right now speaking to the CFR.
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 9:31 AM
Hey dumbass....are you going to cut and paste part of it or did you actually listen to the whole thing. Its over now. Markets liked it.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 9:33 AM
i don't prace around! the area i have to walk around in all the time is just too hilly and the sidewalks are all busted up. i swear if it happens one more time im gonna sue. (tho i cant stand people who sue for no reason so i probably wouldnt)
*rob*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 9:35 AM
Here is my follow up to the YouTube clip I posted last week showing meldowns in the office.
Can this possibly be real??
http://tinyurl.com/b5o4dp
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 9:35 AM
yet another reason for you not to live in Park Slope - the slope.
Posted by: dittoburg at March 10, 2009 9:43 AM
hmmm good point ditto. i do like the aesthetics of hilly areas tho and walking up hills definitely burns more calories. i'll just have to be more careful and observant of my surroundings. or maybe have coffee in the morning before i leave the house instead of when i get to work.
*rob*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 9:46 AM
Imagine how difficult life would be in San Francisco!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 9:47 AM
lol dave. the only thing i think of when i think san francisco is that show Full House! (aunt becky is on the new 90210 btw)
*rob*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 9:51 AM
"Hey dumbass....are you going to cut and paste part of it or did you actually listen to the whole thing."
I watch Cable News Bull Sh*t every morning Dumbass! I'm trying to find Ben Bernanke quote " The worse market since the Great Depression". It was nice going in front of the CFR.
"Its over now. Markets liked it."
No Assnut the markets like lies to rocket off of!
Pandit Says Citigroup Having Best Quarter Since 2007 (Update1)
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=avjYcESZ4uqs&refer=home
I am most encouraged with the strength of our business so far in 2009,” Pandit wrote in an internal memorandum obtained today by Bloomberg.
Internal memo???!!! Obtain by Bloomberg???!!! And the market like it! Well if I hide 1 trillion Off Balance sheet crap then I will post a "Profit" also...
"Citigroup has logged five quarters of losses totaling more than $37.5 billion since it posted a $2.1 billion profit in the third quarter of 2007. Once the world’s biggest bank by market value, it fell below $1 in New York trading last week for the first time as investors lost confidence that the shares can recover after losses and a government rescue."
Dave the market has spoken. Citibank is a Zombie...
Oh BTW With Ben Berspankme speech today I don't need to argue anymore about "Brooklyn Brownstone" prices
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 9:53 AM
You're losing it What. Take the meds today, please.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 9:56 AM
Dave.. Your willful ignorance is going to destroy you....
The What
Someday this war is gonna end..
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 10:21 AM
Survey for all,
Is homeownership a privledge or a necessity?
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 10:26 AM
But at least I'll die with more toys, What.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 10:26 AM
Both, BHO. Its a priviledge if you can afford it (sorry, just being realistic) and its a necessity for your retirement years of rent-free living. Don't go on about saving money as a renter and using that to pay your rent when you're retired because if anybody can save that amount of money, they buy.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 10:28 AM
"Well if I hide 1 trillion Off Balance sheet crap then I will post a "Profit" also..."
Ding ding ding! You have just won the HOTD!
'morning, What. Keep it live today. I can't get enough.
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 10:30 AM
"I don't need to argue anymore about "Brooklyn Brownstone" prices"
Yay! We will be spared the umpteenth repetition of the most tedious argument in modern times.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 10:31 AM
quote:
Is homeownership a privledge or a necessity?
hmm. i dont know. i know having a roof over ones head is a necessity (for the most part) and should be a right actually but some people disagree with that. too many people tho seriously act as if homeownership is the apex of your success. i dont really think it is and like most people say youre just renting from a bank for the most part and then you still have to pay taxes and maintenance so it's like youre still renting but from the government and develope instead. it's like renting a movie versus buying a movie. you still saw the movie whether you rent or bought it, and really what's so fun about seeing the same movie over and over and over.
*rob*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 10:32 AM
"Well if I hide 1 trillion Off Balance sheet crap then I will post a "Profit" also..."
Ding ding ding! You have just won the HOTD!
'morning, What. Keep it live today. I can't get enough.
***Bid half off peak comps***
You "guys" have to do a better job of pretending to be two people. Continually hyping your own posts raises eyebrows.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 10:33 AM
Yeah wasder, it seems the What has managed to dissect Ctigroup's financial statements and find what the Fed did not. Ludicrous is not just a rapper.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 10:35 AM
I am always amused by the "renting from the bank" analogy.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 10:36 AM
"morning, What. Keep it live today. I can't get enough."
Naw BHO I have better things to do. I have a life to run and I can't get involved with the delusion of Brownstoner. If you get a chance read Ben Bernanke speech to the CFR today, it's a real eye-opener...
The What (Keep eating skittles)
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 10:39 AM
Can't be both, DIBS. I interpret your response that it is a privilege (spell check for both of us). Food, shelter (you can rent or stay at 'the shelter' or under a bridge) and clothing are necessities whether you can afford them or not.
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 10:39 AM
"Is homeownership a privledge or a necessity?"
neither. Its a choice, one to be made after very careful consideration.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 10:40 AM
BHO, home OWNERSHIP is not a necessity. However, shelter is a necessity.
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 10:44 AM
BHO is the Medicated and Educated version of "The What"....
The What (Iz gotz me teeeth to eatz my skilttles...)
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 9, 2009 5:00 PM
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 10:45 AM
Probably true, BHO.
I'm gonna try this "rainbow" thing this week!!!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 10:46 AM
"You 'guys' have to do a better job of pretending to be two people. Continually hyping your own posts raises eyebrows."
Damn, you made us/me again. Okay, wasder. Thanks for the tip. No please respond to the survey (I'm sure you will have by the time this posts).
"I am always amused by the 'renting from the bank' analogy."
I didn't even mention that (I implied renting from NYC DOF) because I was generalizing to include all-cash acquisitions. But now that you've brought that up, yeah, many people are also renting from the bank after deducting costs and adjusting for inflation. Not that you can't make money in owning (rents and/or resale) but that's what it is.
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 10:46 AM
"I have a life to run and I can't get involved with the delusion of Brownstoner."
As he and his sock puppet send out their 20th or so post today, prior to 11.00 AM.
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 10:49 AM
rob brought it up. Mortgage interest is a deductible financial cost. Many people that have not educated themselves on home ownership do not understand the financial (positive) ramifications. The "renting from the bank" staement proves they don't understand. It will not go away. Don't even bother with that ridiculous assertion.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 10:51 AM
"Naw BHO I have better things to do."
I know. Me too (gotta get that dough). I'll check that speech out tonight.
Help!!! Somebody give me a ride to the G-Building!!! This split personality is making me 730!!!
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 10:51 AM
rob you make me want to punch you in the ovaries. its a slope, not a breakneck descent. and ive been by that construction site and its not as bad as you make it sound. there might be mud/water, which means you just walk like a normal biped and you'll be fine. you were right in blaming yourself, but embody the typical american when you invoke threats of lawsuits. ARGH. you made me need another coffee!
Posted by: goldie at March 10, 2009 10:51 AM
"BHO, home OWNERSHIP is not a necessity. However, shelter is a necessity."
Biff, you beat me to it.
Posted by: East New York at March 10, 2009 11:07 AM
omg goldie i said i would NEVER sue anyone. i hate frivolous lawsuits, and it's not like i hurt myself jeez. just embarrassed myself and got a little muddy. no biggie. sorry you want to punch me in my ovaries (you know i am a man tho right?)
*rob*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 11:14 AM
"Damn, you made us/me again. Okay, wasder. Thanks for the tip. No please respond to the survey (I'm sure you will have by the time this posts)."
I had responded before you wrote this. It is neither. Thanks for being honest for once about the double identity thing though.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 11:14 AM
Interesting debate guys.
Dibs' claims that once your mortage is paid off you get to live rent-free in your old age. This is true, but how many people actualy achieve it?
This is completely ancedotal I admit, but from my knowledge of many people my parents age that are reaching retirement age.. they are infact completely over-leveraged and mortgaged up to their eyeballs because they wanted to do home improvements to increase the "value" of their homes or to help a kid out with school, whatever.
Now their homes are worth significantly less but the taxes are still high and going up all the time... it seems that many in the boomer generation may want to retire, but can't and won't be doing it any time soon, especially with the hit to any investments they may have had recently.
My own parents finally just had it with NY state all together- sold their house and moved to Texas, just to get out from under the tax bills. Now they have a shot of retiring modestly in a few years, but they still won't own free and clear.
I think it would be interesting to see data in a few years on the boomer generation to see the percentage of who actually owns their homes- no mortgage left.
Posted by: ennuiater at March 10, 2009 11:37 AM
"the percentage of who actually owns their homes- no mortgage left."
My parents own a two-family house in East New York, totally paid off, no mortgage, not "over-leveraged...up to their eyeballs." Like your example, completely anecdotal.
Posted by: East New York at March 10, 2009 11:47 AM
BHO, you have posed a fundamentally flawed question.
Homeownership is a property right or really a set of rights and obligations that one purchases with money or otherwise receives from someone who had it before. It is neither a privilege or a necessity. No one is innately entitled to home ownership -- one has to buy (or, of course, inherit or be given it) it from someone else. Nor is it a privilege. No one gives it to you, subject to revocation. You buy it from someone who had the right to that property before you. If you fail to pay your mortgage or taxes or something else that results in a lien and foreclosure, that is not the loss of a privilege. It is someone else exercising a right that is superior to yours and eventually extinguishes yours if you do not exercise available remedies.
What's your point?
Posted by: slopefarm at March 10, 2009 11:54 AM
Ditto for my folks. Three family home in Gravesend, completely paid off. If anything, I would love that they sell it, put the money in the bank and rent an apartment. My father is 85, and he can no longer keep up with the house and tennants, though it does keep him going.
My plan is to be completely paid off on my mortgage by my mid-50's. Don't know if I'll meet the target, but that is my plan for the present.
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 11:55 AM
Agreed ENY, it is purely anecdotal. But I wonder if it's really just my parents and also my in-laws and many of their friends that have made (in my opinion) really stupid financial decisions, or if it's more widespread.
I haven't ever read any reports about it, so it makes me curious.
Posted by: ennuiater at March 10, 2009 12:02 PM
Parents paid cash for their home circa 1966. They never had a mortgage.
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 12:13 PM
I wonder how many people buy simply becuase we are told to believe that you must- for financial, social, moral, religious- I don't know how many reasons. I do know that there is a disturbing tendiency to treat those of us who rent as somehow less productive/intelligent/solvent/ educated- you name it, its been implied about people who rent.
I'm under no illusions about the financial benefits of owning a house. But it isn't the only financially responsible choice you can make. And for all the sniping at renters, it's a little ironic isn't it, that so many homeowners depend on tenants to meet their mortgages.
Posted by: bxgrl at March 10, 2009 12:15 PM
A mortgage isn't always a bad thing to have.
If you own a multi-family building the mortgage gets you the deduction against the income. Once a multi-family is paid off your tax liability skyrockets.
After a few years of free and clear ownership my folks were getting hammered at tax time so they did a small re-fi for the tax benefits.
Of course this only really works on multi-family properties and doesn't apply to apartments and single family houses....
Posted by: christopher at March 10, 2009 12:23 PM
"Thanks for being honest for once about the double identity thing though."
Your welcome, wasder. But why does my nose hurt?
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 12:27 PM
"A mortgage isn't always a bad thing to have."
christopher, you're correct. However, where my parents lived (different country) they didn't have the tax breaks provided in the US, such as the mortgage interest deduction. As such, it made sense there to pay off your mortgage as quickly as possible (or avoid having one at all if you could).
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 12:31 PM
"Mortgage interest is a deductible financial cost."
It's like still having to pay $200 for a $400-italian cashmere scarf on sale for 50% off. It doesn't wipe out the net cost. This net cost has to be deducted from your gross return. Edumacate me more, DIBS (Really, maybe I'm missing something).
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 12:33 PM
---crickets chirping -----
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 12:33 PM
I wonder if anyone else heard the BBC World Service feature this morning about a Danish artist’s group exhibition in Berlin. Its topic bears a striking resemblance to certain Brownstoner posters: the world economic crisis, seen through the eyes of a glum character named Moll Morgengrau. He views the financial crisis with glee, exclaiming “More financial crisis please! Now everyone will be just as poor as me!” or “The financial crisis is wonderful! Now everyone is getting divorced!”
Unfortunately, cannot find audio link; Bloomberg and AP links at: art2u.wordpress.com/
Posted by: vinca at March 10, 2009 12:41 PM
bxgrl,
I was a renter until a year ago. So you'll get no sniping from me. In fact until I got married and became a two income household I most likely wouldn't have been able to own my own home.
To answer your question yes, when I grew up it was instilled in me that home ownership was the smartest thing you could do financially. My folks bought and completely paid off the mortgages for their home, my grandmother's condo and a large plot of land in 20 yrs. They had both grew up quite poor so to them home ownership was a marker of success.
A few years ago they sold the land and using the proceeds, bought a beachfront plot up on a bluff in VA and a new construction house across the street to live there while they built their dream home on the beachfront side. This was cash, no mortgage. They then went and sold the house we grew up in and are going to be selling my grandmother's place. That's a bulk of their retirement money.
So based on what they've been able to do yeah, I am pretty confident that the decision to buy will work out well for me in the end.
The biggest lesson they taught me. Always live slightly below your means. The Jones'? They're probably leveraged to the hilt.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 12:53 PM
"The Jones'? They're probably leveraged to the hilt."
A lot of people are jonesing for some leverage these days.
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 12:57 PM
People love to tout that mortgage interest is a deductible financial cost. While it's true I just think of it as a nice bonus while you have a mortgage.
However, personally I think that you're better served to pay off the mortgage early and be able to bank away that monthly payment money.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 1:03 PM
Folks;
On this topic,I highly recommend that you read the book "The Millionaire Next Door", which came out about 5 years ago. This book nails it exactly right with regard to putting home ownership in perspective. Owning a single-family home is NOT an investment - it is a form of consumption. That is not to say that owning a home may not be the right move financially, that is, it is a better form of consumption than renting. It depends upon your circumstances. Ocassionally there appears on Brownstoner a poster named "Finance Guy" who outlines the key points of the "rent-versus-buy" decision perfectly.
IMO, the mortgage interest deduction is one of the biggest mistakes in public policy in the US. It is nothing more than a subsidy to consumption, and the day of reckoning for this policy is upon us.
When folks view the pruchase or lease of their home in the same manner as they do their car, we will have returned to sound economics in this country.
My $0.02.
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 1:12 PM
My parents and many of their friends were renters for most, if not all of their lives. My father never wanted to own a house- I don't know why- but there was never any "you must own to be successful" thing. Different strokes for different folk, THL :-). Many other relatives do own- and eventually my folks bought a condo in FLA- again, not because of some idea that it made him look successful, but because in FLA you couldn't find decent rentals where they wanted to live. My father was a great guy- did a lot for other people, was responsible and upstanding, ran a successful business after years of hard work and failures along the way. It never mattered whther or not he owned a house.
Someday I'd like to own (or at least rent) a fabulous old pile upstate- my problem is not with people who own. It's just been with the attitude of some of them toward renters. I know you love your house! We all want to come over for the food! And the cats :-) I can bring my guys over for play dates.
Posted by: bxgrl at March 10, 2009 1:15 PM
Good response, slopefarm at March 10, 2009 11:54 AM. But there is no such thing as a flawed question. That's why you answered it, "It is neither a privilege or a necessity.".
From wikipedia...
"In a broader sense, 'privilege' can refer to special powers or 'de facto' immunities held as a consequence of political power or wealth."
Special powers as a consequence of wealth is the operative meaning of my use of the word 'privilege'.
I don't quite know what my point is. I think it has something to do with bailing out homeowners (which is only used to bail out banks but that's an entirely different issue that I don't want to get into at this time). The protesters at the Javits auction this past weekend come to mind.
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 1:15 PM
A lot of this issue has to do with how transitory people have become. The time period in the postwar years people did not change jobs, get divorced, or have as many upheavals in their lives is the time period that subscribed to the "buy over rent" philosophy the hardest. Nowadays, like much of life, it comes down to personal choices.
Posted by: infinitejester at March 10, 2009 1:34 PM
Bxgrl,
The flip side? My husbands parents, both his sisters, and his brother enjoy rent controlled apts. on the LES. Trust me, if we could have the sweet deal that they all have we'd be in an apt. from which we'd eventually be removed feet first!
The thought of my husband pulling the trigger and buying a house scared the living daylights out of them. It's a completely foreign concept. So it's exactly what you say...different strokes.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 1:37 PM
And in other happier news...The crocuses have all bloomed and the backyard is looking much more cheery!
Come on Spring!!
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 1:41 PM
Homeownership is more than a consumption option. It is a cornerstone of the American capitalist system. The foundations upon which this nation was built. Like it or not, land grants, charters, deeds and titles were instituted as far back as the colonial days.
To give an example, in Venezuela, modern day dictator Chavez is busy reclaiming "underutilized" land from farmers who have held claim to their land since The Great Liberator, Simon De Bolivar ended Spanish rule. Chavez is requesting recorded proof by landowners dating back 200 years. Proof which they, of course, do not have. So goes the socialist revolution in one South American country. And if history is any indicator, a continued descent into a lower standard of living and despotism for that nation.
So you see, the question of owning vs. renting cannot be easily dissected from it's social/societal implications. In other words, a renter nation is a nation without privitization. Without privitization you have socialism/communism which is the birthing ground for dictatorships and totalitarianism.
Do not mistake my opinions for a knock on renters in the free market, they are just as important to the free flow of persons up and down the social ladder. This is simply a commentary on the importance of home ownership as an underpinning to a capitalist society.
Posted by: Legion at March 10, 2009 1:46 PM
Oy vey
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 1:50 PM
Legion;
Allow me to introduce myself. I am Mr. "Red-State, slightly to the right of Attila-the-Hun" Benson. I take a back seat to NO ONE in my defense of the right of private property and the benefits of Capitalism.
You misunderstood my post. Nowhere do I advocate that government take over private property, nor do I disparage home-ownership. What I am advocating is that home ownership be put in persepctive,and in that regard, you are incorrect in stating that home ownership is the cornerstone of the capitalist system. Private property and the effective use of capital is the cornerstone,and in that regard, the US has not been doing well.
I work for a Japanese company, and have to travel often to "producing" countries like Japan and Malaysia. There I see lots of factories churning out goods for Westerners to consume (and we give them IOU's in return). What do I see here? McMansions that costs thousands to heat and maintain, and few productive assets. That is what I am talking about.
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 1:58 PM
benson, just curious and I have no hidden point behind this question. What do you think is a worse "Policy" decision,
1) the mortgage interest deduction
2) rent control
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 2:15 PM
"But why does my nose hurt?"
Don't know. Do you have a cold? Hopefully your nose is not hurting from anything I said.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 2:21 PM
has "privitization" got something to do with privies?
Posted by: dittoburg at March 10, 2009 2:27 PM
Well if we're gonna compare cars to houses lets make the comparison a valid one. You can buy a new lamborghini with solid gold wheels on credit, you can buy a reliable used Honda with all its oil-change records, a new mid-price car on credit or with all cash, or you can drive the second-hand car your grandma gives to you. There are many different options. Doesn't tell you anything about the advisability of buying a house or a car one way or the other.
But a car depreciates, is not entirely necessary even if you live in the suburbs, and you can't live in it. (Well, not really.)
Eric Tyson or any of those rent-or-buy calculators will tell you the choice depends on the cost of renting and the appreciation of housing prices.
Your mileage will vary.
Posted by: mopar at March 10, 2009 2:28 PM
Biff;
Both are equally bad in my book. If I had to say which is worse,I would say rent control for one simple reason: whereas the mortgage deduction is a benefit open to anyone who wishes to buy a home, rent control is restricted to a select few. It is a closed benefit.
Mopar;
The various car options you describe have the same exact analogies in housing. You want a McMansion, a thrifty solid rowhouse or perhaps a condo? Just as you can define your consumption in cars, so too with housing.
Your home doesn't depreciate? All the homes I've ever lived in required roof replacements, new boilers, painting, etc. You take into account the money required for these items, the property taxes, interest and insurance costs AND the time you have to put into it, and then tell me if the home is "appreciating".
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 2:38 PM
BHO...do you understand that in the latter half of a mortgage you are paying prinvipal mostly???
Your nose hurts for a reason
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 2:43 PM
Where is BRG today????
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 3:00 PM
"BHO is the Medicated and Educated version of "The What"...."
Does that mean he's meducated? Sorry...
Bernanke/FED and CFR was pure entertainment to mislead the public that, gee, how did this all happen??? See? Bread and circuses, PPT hard at work, good job boyz!
Abolish the FED, abolish fractional reserve banking
Posted by: bridges at March 10, 2009 3:21 PM
I hope she didn't pull something dancing the night away with the hubster.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 3:21 PM
Yeah, where are you girls hiding? Cobblehiller, Snappy and BRG?
hellooooo??
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 3:27 PM
Howdy all :) THL, I'm still smarting over the Whitney/Jay breakup - ha! J/K. I don't understand all the financial talk that's going on so I've just laid low today.
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 3:29 PM
LOL!
I kinda do but I always though I could hide from it in the O.T.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 3:32 PM
Legion- it seems to me you are looking at it the wrong way. Home ownership is not what protects this country or makes it a free society. Capitalism is not what makes us a free society- It is the system of government we have. The system defined in the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Capitalism is our market system- not the foundation . Venezuela is hardly the same country as we are- Chavez is a dictator in fact if no by definition. what he is doing is nowhere near what is happening, or will happen in this country.
About the closest thing to Chavez is eminent domain which takes land to give to private developers like Ratner. Do you condone that? I certainly don't.
Posted by: bxgrl at March 10, 2009 3:36 PM
Me too. I'm just a simple girl with no money, so the points are moot for me. I was able to buy my house 8 years ago only because a friend sold it to me, and found financing for me. I now know I had a high interest subprime loan, which I was able to refi into a decent rate several years ago, when my house tripled in value. If not for him, I'd still be a renter.
My main reason for wanting to buy a home is rather naive, I love old houses, filled with craftsmanship and period detail, and I wanted to be able to live in, restore and preserve one. All of the other perks and priveleges came to me later. I'm glad I bought, but I wish I had known more about the details of small landlording, city regulations and the DOB, the water dept, sanitation, furnace and sprinkler inspections and other money sucking details that go into owning a 3 family.
Posted by: Montrose Morris at March 10, 2009 3:43 PM
I thought so too! Oh, well, guess I have to learn something here too :)
My rant of the day: I hate that the NYT teamed up w/ Monster for their job search pages. A few years ago, before their job site merger, you used to be able to leave out jobs posted by temp agencies. Now, I get to slog through them all. And, since when is Scranton,PA part of the Tri-State area??? ARgh!
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 3:44 PM
In evil cat must pay news...
The little one stole a giant slice of lox right off my bagel today when I went to get a drink. Where did she run off with it to? The one place I can't get at her, behind the built in under the stairs.
Weasel.
Well fed, smoked salmon breath weasel.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 3:49 PM
THL...to add insult to injury she'll probably upchuck it on your bedspread!!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 3:52 PM
Ha! I almost got my butt kicked last night for some olives. Why do cats love olives?
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 3:54 PM
At least after a week or two of searching you recognize their names and can skim past them.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 3:54 PM
My cats spit on my olives! Yours like them? Mine like sponges.
Posted by: bxgrl at March 10, 2009 3:59 PM
Dave so you know her then?
Actually, you're very close, for some reason they all prefer the one rug that I have of significant value. They'll run past the cheap ones gagging to wait until they get to the good one.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:00 PM
Bxgirl, my cat is willing to pull my eyes out for some olives. I have to eat them standing up. The last time I sat while eating olives? I wound up on the floor, dazed while she stuffed as many as she could in her mouth then took off under the bed to eat them.
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:01 PM
Olives huh? I know I love olives but I never showed them one. What kind?
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:02 PM
Are you ladies saying that you go to the OT to escape my brilliant expositions on economics and home ownership?!?!?!
I'm hurt...
;-)
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 4:05 PM
Regular spanish olives with the pimento inside. They are not good for cats (because of the excessive salt I think) but telling my cat 'no' is a total waste of time.
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:05 PM
We had one that loved to gnaw on the corn on the cob husks.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:07 PM
Benson, I love learning from you, but yeah, I have to admit, the OT a hiding spot of sorts :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:07 PM
Benson, I gave it a shot today but what the heck do I know? I just know what I know, you know?
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:08 PM
Benson, just a note on your comment, which reasoning strikes me as flawed (regarding mortgage interest deduction and rent control): "Both are equally bad in my book. If I had to say which is worse, I would say rent control for one simple reason: whereas the mortgage deduction is a benefit open to anyone who wishes to buy a home, rent control is restricted to a select few. It is a closed benefit."
The mortgage deduction is a benefit open to anyone who *owns* a home, not anyone who wishes to buy one. Many who wish to buy a home will never be able to afford one or to apply the deduction. Rent-regulated apartments are available to anyone searching for apartments to rent. Many who wind up renting will never find or qualify for a rent-controlled or rent-regulated apartment, but the benefit is only as closed or limited as the program defining and/or limiting those apartments. Both ownership and rentals are inextricably linked to affordable housing issues and to much broader social issues.
Posted by: vinca at March 10, 2009 4:08 PM
Perhaps because you hadn't given it enough Activa?
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:09 PM
Biff...how often are you going to advertise the party in the Forum??
I think it helped yesterday when BRG got it reinvigorated.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:12 PM
Biff...how often are you going to advertise the party in the Forum??
I think it helped yesterday when BRG got it reinvigorated.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:14 PM
sorry...computer locked up
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:15 PM
Hey guys, not sure if anyone has brought this up as I haven't been around lately, but Brooklyn Restaurant Week is coming up
http://www.visitbrooklyn.org/pdf/DIB09web.pdf (Warning - PDF)
Always a great excuse to explore neighborhoods you wouldn't normally go to and enjoy a great meal at a reasonable price!!
Posted by: dirty_hipster at March 10, 2009 4:15 PM
So has anyone seen these dishes at Fishs Eddy? I so want the Floorplan ones.
Floorplan:
http://www.fishseddy.com/browse.cfm/2,103.html
and Brooklyn:
http://www.fishseddy.com/browse.cfm/2,94.html
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:15 PM
How often do you guys throw these parties?
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:15 PM
Last one was October. No regular schedule or anything.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:17 PM
I've seen those dishes close up. They are neat.
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:17 PM
This one's for you Snappy:
http://www.fishseddy.com/browse.cfm/4,1345.html
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:20 PM
Damn- jsut when we got a good cat conversation going benson has to come and ruin it! Get a cat, man! :-)
Posted by: bxgrl at March 10, 2009 4:20 PM
Hi THL, et al -
I'm here - I was reading - a printed paper product!
Has the bitter renter/obnoxious owner debate ended for today? I left because it was making me physically ill on top of this cold.
[My visitor cat likes hand lotion...she gets annoyed when I won't let her lick my hands.]
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 4:21 PM
You're gonna get annihilated here for that remark, benson. :)
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:23 PM
Dogs aren't as discerning, they'll yak on any cheap rug.
Hey Cobble! I've been perusing my new IKEA catalog that arrived today.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:24 PM
"Biff...how often are you going to advertise the party in the Forum??"
DIBS, how about every other day until next Thursday? What do you think? Maybe I'll rotate each day between that and the Closing Bell?
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 4:24 PM
It figures benson...
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 4:24 PM
"My rant of the day: I hate that the NYT teamed up w/ Monster for their job search pages. A few years ago, before their job site merger, you used to be able to leave out jobs posted by temp agencies. Now, I get to slog through them all. And, since when is Scranton,PA part of the Tri-State area??? ARgh!"
You are posting on Brownstoner all day when you should be OUT looking for a job!!!!
I found out something disturbing about the Assheads here! Most of you are unemployed! (Cobblehiller is immune from this Asshat Blast). You got the nerve to try to get at The What??!!! All of ya'll are POSERS, yet that's right, POSERS!!!!!!! You can't afford to live in Park Slope, Cobble Hill, Dumbo or Williamsburg but the retards try to Hijack the Ghetto and walk around like somebody LMMFAO!!!
Yeah Retards you got Benson a old assed retard trying to revive the "Dick Cheney" role! Then you got the other collection of Assheads posting all day about a God damn Cat when they should look for employment. You got a 'tard named Dave trying to channel "Larry Kudlow" and living in the Ghetto!! Man what a collection of losers!
BTW This my retort to your retort! Let my nut sack drag in your mouths....
The What (LMMFAO LOSERs ; ^ P)
Someday this unemployment is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 4:24 PM
Oh, I love it! Gotta get that glass!
I was known in law school for drinking Rolling Rock beer. A good friend of mine wound up at some hole in the wall bar in PA and was served a beer in a green Rolling Rock glass that is a replica of the bottle. He quickly chugged his beer and shoved the glass down his pants and ran out of the bar with it. He presented it to me as a 'hot' gift! That was awesome :) (Not suggesting that anyone steal the Snappy glass for me! Just a story!)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:25 PM
How can you hate cats?!?!? That's it, I'm marching you down to the Petco in Union Square to look at all those sexy beasts up for adoption!
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:26 PM
Nice, What, really nice.
And what is it you do all day??? Besides play pocket pool?
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:27 PM
Biff, you're advertising on CNBC's Closing Bell???
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:28 PM
Wow, that's some ad budget Biff.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:29 PM
"Cobblehiller is immune from this Asshat Blast"
Really it's just me and Snappy that are unemployed What. But thanks for not blasting me, I'm not sure I could handle that today.
[Snappy's a pretty nice gal, too. I've met assheads, and she's no asshead...]
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 4:30 PM
Okay, What (though your name should be WHY???). Listen/read carefully. WHAT LAWYERS DO YOU KNOW THAT GO OUT POUNDING THE PAVEMENT FOR A JOB, DILLWEED? This lovely thing called the internet allows one to search jobs without leaving the house. I'm not looking for a waitressing job, ASSHAT! Oh, and besides being the 'cut and paste' master, WTF do *you* do all day? Or do you make your money via incalls? (Yeah, you know exactly what that is) Please, don't make me put your eyes in your back pocket so you can watch me kick your ass. Now be gone, you pesky little fly.
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:30 PM
THL, I love those floor plan dishes and bought some for a friend of mine -- who incidentally you remind me of and who also makes bacon-wrapped treats for her most excellent parties.
"The various car options you describe have the same exact analogies in housing."
Exactly my point, Benson. Also, houses can appreciate or depreciate. Why don't you try out one of those buy vs. rent calculators and you'll see what I mean?
Posted by: mopar at March 10, 2009 4:31 PM
Rob, do you really call it 'bean bag time'?
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 4:32 PM
DIBS/THL, not quite there yet. Starting with the Brownstoner Closing Bell...
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 4:33 PM
"Don't know. Do you have a cold? Hopefully your nose is not hurting from anything I said."
Pinnochio, wasder. You thanked me for being honest about my alleged split personality. Hardy har har.
"BHO...do you understand that in the latter half of a mortgage you are paying prinvipal mostly???"
Sure, DIBS, but how does that stack up against my implied argument that mortgage interest deduction (a minor tax credit but drop in the bucket compared to all of the costs) is not a financially earth-shattering reason to own a home? Teach me something. I'm here to learn.
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 4:33 PM
I don't think that most of the people here are looking for jobs that require you to go in and physically fill out a job application a la McDonalds. I'm thinking that most have moved onto searching via the internet and sending resumes via email.
But you go ahead and pound the pavement if that's what works for you What.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:33 PM
quote:
Rob, do you really call it 'bean bag time'?
i didnt come up with it. when i lived in harlem one of my roommates who was a giant pest and always knocking on my door would always be like omg im so sorry i dont mean to interupt your beanbag time. i guess it turned out to be an inside joke amongst us hahaha.
*r*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 4:35 PM
THL, What has a job. He lays on his tummy and takes it from the back while he plays cut and paste on B'Stoner. The clients leave their 50 cents on the nightstand when they are finished. He's a multi-tasker :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:36 PM
THL;
Let's not forget another important source of job leads: the flyers on the lampposts, the ones right under the "Moving?" ad. Snappy, why aren't you pursuing this important avenue?!?!?
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 4:37 PM
Oh, Benson, I exhausted all the lamp post leads last week :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:39 PM
Wow, I'm staying out of this but have to say that someone put the "Snap" in "InsertSnappyNameHere"!
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 4:39 PM
Aw, The What is just giving us a pep speech. Thank you, What. He's right, too. Years ago a headhunter told me the only way to get a job is to call people and ask for one. He said call at least ten people a day. Don't just send in resumes -- they go to resume heaven.
Posted by: mopar at March 10, 2009 4:39 PM
I want to apologize to all of you for my graphic rant to the What/Why. I got really angry and just typed. That's usually not my M.O., but I got riled up. I'll try to dial back my temper. :(
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:40 PM
BHO...if I had to rent my unit in Bed Stuy it'd be $2,500 - 3,000.
My costs are as follows (before we include the tax effect of the mortgage): $2,500 mortgage (including taxes) + 300 insurance + 150 utilities - 1,200 rental income....that's $1,750. If I had kept the 65% cash that I put down it'd probably be about 35% smaller from the fall in the market.
You always make these broad sweeping statements and can never show any of the math!!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:40 PM
Last month Biff and What went shopping for matching BFF sweaters.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:41 PM
How would you get the phone numbers for these individuals mopar? Especially when there is no hiring manager or other noted? Or when the company is 'confidential'?
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 4:42 PM
cobblehiller- me too. Still unemployed but getting some freelance work.
benson :-(
snappy :-) !!!!
Posted by: bxgrl at March 10, 2009 4:42 PM
It's o.k. Snappy we've all been known to have fallen prey to his baiting at some point.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:42 PM
THL, I think you misinterpreted my comment.
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 4:44 PM
No, I'm just breaking your beanbags.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:46 PM
You're funny today benson! : )
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 4:48 PM
Beanbags are like a good defense in football - they bend but don't break. :-)
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 4:48 PM
I don't think that anyone should ever feel that they have to apologize for anything said on a blog.
We're all friends here and if if something gets a bit off color it should be taken with a grain of salt and lightheartedly.
Snappy, as much as I'm liking your style I will not sleep with you. :)
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:49 PM
Is "bean bag" code for drinking or something else involving the upward and downward motion of one arm???
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 4:50 PM
Dave, HA! It's ok, man, I don't play with twigs and berries, remember!
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 4:52 PM
"Please, don't make me put your eyes in your back pocket so you can watch me kick your ass."
Hmmmm....never heard that one before. Not bad.
Posted by: East New York at March 10, 2009 4:52 PM
Upwards and downwards motion.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 4:54 PM
"You're funny today benson! : )"
Yeah, it happens occassionally.
Posted by: benson at March 10, 2009 4:54 PM
"How would you get the phone numbers for these individuals mopar? Especially when there is no hiring manager or other noted? Or when the company is 'confidential'?"
I believe Mopar meant you should call the company you'd want to work for regardless of whether or not they are advertising a position, find the personnel department, and ask about a position. That's not a bad tactic, in my opinion. The worst they can say is "no," and at best, you could stumble onto a company that just happens to want what you have, and may not have even had time to advertise the position. At least by cold-calling (in a relative sense) you usually get a quick answer.
Posted by: East New York at March 10, 2009 5:02 PM
rob...you need to get a bf, or at least a fb!!!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:03 PM
quote:
you should call the company you'd want to work for regardless of whether or not they are advertising a position, find the personnel department, and ask about a position.
ugh it is SO annoying when people do that but i do understand it's a viable tactic. it definitely won't work tho with some companies.
*r*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 5:05 PM
Snappy...here's a company that's probably hiring...FTI Consulting...they provide forensic accounting, litigation & bankruptcy advice to clients. They are not a law firm but their business is booming....
We're buying the stock.
www.fticonsulting.com
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:07 PM
"it definitely won't work tho with some companies."
You're right, Rob. It's total hit-or-miss. But it's worth a shot sometimes when you happen to need a job.
Posted by: East New York at March 10, 2009 5:08 PM
Say it aint so, a 'REAL' Housewife from Brooklyn has lost her job!
http://www.lifeandstylemag.com/2009/03/alex-mccord.html
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:08 PM
i love thl always manages to turn the conversation back to trashy reality tv, regardless of topic hahahha
*r*
Posted by: PitbullNYC at March 10, 2009 5:10 PM
DIBS, I can't believe you mentioned them. I've done tons of business with FTI and know a few MDs/Senior MDs there very well.
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 5:10 PM
THL, I can't believe it! How are they going to afford to keep sending France-Wah and Yo-han to private school. Oh wait, they go to PS 29, apparently.
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 5:13 PM
InsertSnappyNameHere Allow me to show you how much of a failure you are..
You went thru Law school and passed the Bar and you still can't find work????????
I have friends who are Lawyers and they are so busy we can't go and hang out! They are working 60+ hours a week, no BS!
This illustrates how much of a failure you are, Next!
Let me tell you a story: 13 Years ago I was out of work. I went and got the list of all the cleaning companies in New York and walked to everyone of them (No Bullsh*t)!!! I said to myself that I was going to get a job or take any job they gave me. The first day I filled out about 27 applications (No BS) and no one called me. The next day I went and filled out 24 applications (No BS) I was leaving the last office and walked past my future boss and was headed for the subway. My pager went of and the office called me back. The Boss ask me did I have a Driver License and I said "Yeah". he said I have a opening and be here at 5 O' Clock in the morning! I worked that job for 6 years before I went into Real Estate! This is NEW YORK Dumbasses!!!!! If you can't find a job here I will pay for your bus ticket back to Dirtnap, OH!!! Get off your asses and fine employment you motherf*****ing Posers!!!
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 5:14 PM
Biff...get her resume and put in a good word for her. Maybe meet at the party first to make sure that she's not a total wack job, goth, nutcase first though!!!! :) :) :)
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:14 PM
I can't believe how many things I can't believe today!
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 5:14 PM
Poor Alex (I think I care). One day I took my daughter to the playground at Carrol and Smith and she ended up playing with Francoise, Alex and Simon's kid. Simon was there as well. Don't even get me started on him.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 5:16 PM
A special shout out to Dave since he asked about me :-)
Snappy honey, I like your style, please rant some more to The What...it's driving me craaaaazy....for you!
Actually, back when I first started posting. I said something funny regarding the What and it got me invited to the get together back in October. So, you see Snappy, the more vulgar the comment you make to the What, people here will take notice and applaud you.
And you better show up next Thursday or people will be disappointed.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at March 10, 2009 5:16 PM
THL,
Urgh...Alex...I cannot believe that woman. Francois is NOT in private school. He goes to PS 29. I have seen her walking her kid to school.
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:17 PM
Thanks for the lead Dave.
What/Why, I've already addressed you and now I'm done. As I said before, be gone you pesky little fly.
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:17 PM
Where's that randolph biatch today????
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:17 PM
"Get off your asses and fine employment you motherf*****ing Posers!!!"
Somehow I think you wrote this because you care What and just can't express it nicely.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 5:18 PM
Biff my favorite line:
"If I'm not able to replace my income by the time my severance runs out, discretionary expenses and our nanny are where we'd have to cut back."
Really? you'd have to give up your nanny while you're unemployed? I genuine feel for her I wouldn't want to spend time with those children either! They're nightmares*!
*Yes, I DO blame their parents.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:18 PM
" can't believe how many things I can't believe today!"
ROTFLMMFAO!!!!
I'm hijacking that!!!!! It's mine Biff and you can't have it back!
The What (can't believe how many things I can't believe today!)
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 5:19 PM
BRG, I'm considering showing up next Thursday, but no promises :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:19 PM
I have a very serious fashion question to ask. My bf (the Chinese one here in NYC who is a shopaholic) bought me these very expensive Italian boots. These are the kind that are about 9" high..I guess you'd call them dress boots. The toes are wingtip but pointy.
Do these really make me look like Eurotrash or are they expensive enough that they are "classy?"
They're not really my style but I'll wear them. They might be too dressy for jeans but I'll wear them with those too.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:20 PM
cobblehiller, that's what I said.
wasder, I saw Simon at Los Paisonos Meat Market on Smith. Not exactly as exciting as when I ran into George Harrison years ago outside of the Plaza...
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 5:20 PM
Oh BTW How was I able to fill out so many applications????
I got the list and walked into any place along the way to the next stop and asked "are you hiring"? That's how!!!!!!!!!
The What
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 5:21 PM
I have no idea who Simon is.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:22 PM
5:20 - A gay man asking us for fashion advice. What has the world come to??
Posted by: bayridgegirl at March 10, 2009 5:22 PM
Dave, do you have an online link so we can see what they look like?
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:25 PM
What, it's all yours. You've given us plenty of "What-isms"; it's about time we gave one back!
THL, I love the use of the asterisk! Anyway, I would imagine they are completely overextended at this point given their attempts to fit in and appear on the society pages. It's like a car wreck I can't stop watching!
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 5:25 PM
Sorry Biff...
"Don't even get me started on him."
Oh please tell us wasder! Pretty please! They annoy me beyond the beyond...
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:25 PM
"It's like a car wreck I can't stop watching!"
Precisely!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:26 PM
I still don't know what a gaywad really is (refer to HOTD thread), but I would imagine it looks an awful lot like Simon.
Posted by: Biff Champion at March 10, 2009 5:27 PM
I think yesterday someone posted something that I thought waas the sickest and the alltime funniest post..it was De Lepp, I think...
"I want to die like my grandfather, quietly in my sleep, not like the screaming passengers in the car."
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:27 PM
wasder: Do NOT leave us hanging - you brought it up, now you have to tell the Carroll Park Story!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:30 PM
Here they are....they actually look nicer than the pic though..very sleek and the leather is sooooo soft...
https://www.candefashions.com/show_item.php?code=1730Blk
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:30 PM
Dave for those of us familiar with Simon we thin you should should model the boots him and his wife and Alex and let them decide.
BTW this is Simon , Alex and their Brooklyn home:
http://www.bravotv.com/the-real-housewives-of-new-york-city/videos/alexs-renovation
Honestly, I do not prefer that look with jeans but I'm not a gay man so I'd say wear them when you're with your beloved ask him to help you pull together the look. He'll be so proud (and turned on).
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:31 PM
You can also see them in person. I'll be at Jolie tonight around 7:00...the usual table in the back. I'll be the one with the fashionable Italian boots and the bodybuilder Chinese guy. Wine half off nite!!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:32 PM
Dave. Seriously? Only wear them when he's around. Outside of that, pack 'em in a box and put 'em in the back of the closet. (Unless you wear them with long pants that would hide the fact that they are boots - please tell us you don't wear man-capris!!)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:32 PM
Snappy...I'm a snappy dresser....all my pants are long with the appropriate "break" at the top of the shoe. Christ!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:34 PM
OK...gotta run...gottta change into something casual...I'm not going to dinner in my suit & tie with this young guy and have it look like an old man and a rent boy!!!!
Run with that!!!!!
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:35 PM
Dave, are you going to wear them on the 19th
[muttering, please say no, please say no]
Posted by: bayridgegirl at March 10, 2009 5:35 PM
I love Jolie, nice place - enjoy Dave!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:36 PM
:) Just checking :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:36 PM
"Dirtnap, OH!!!"
Is that anywhere near Youngstown?
Posted by: East New York at March 10, 2009 5:37 PM
Snappy, Dave does dress very well....the boots are no indication of his usual suited-up style. Don't know his 'casual' style - but it can't be far off.
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:37 PM
Snappy...follow up on that FTI thing.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:38 PM
wasder! Come back here! You have a story to tell!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:38 PM
I'm already reading their website, Dave. Thanks :) And keep those pants long :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:39 PM
I'm already reading their website, Dave. Thanks :) And keep those pants long :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:41 PM
Do you wear koolatts (sp?) Snappy???
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:41 PM
Judging by Dave's taste in homes I always picture a very sharp dressed man.
Ever since RBG made a comment about it I'm still left wondering what's up with Biff's hair.
Should we be calling you Biff-gojevich?
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:41 PM
culottes
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:43 PM
I'm sure BRG was just being snarky. Biff's actually quite handsome despite the picture you may have of him. Not my cup of tea, though.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 5:44 PM
LOL Dave. I have been guilty of putting on 'gaucho pants' in the summer when I'm lazy :) **hanging head in shame**
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:45 PM
> "Do these really make me look like Eurotrash or are they expensive enough that they are 'classy?'"
I suggest wrapping your tootsies in benjamins if you're going for expensive = classy.
Posted by: SnarkSlope at March 10, 2009 5:47 PM
(and yes, there is a difference! culottes tend to have loud, hideous patterns and colors. Different cut too!)
rationalizing. it's the new white meat :)
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:47 PM
Oh Snappy please say it's only in the house!
Snappy you should know better than to talk about Argentinian cowboys in front of Dave you know it'll only get him all worked up!
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:48 PM
THL: Dispite all the snarky comments I might have said about Biff in the past. They were all in jest....ssshhh, don't tell anyone ;-)
He is really a very nice guy and has normal hair.
Now MY hair on the other hand, is typical of South Brooklyn circa 1983. I don't know how my head will fit through the door at Floyd's.
Posted by: bayridgegirl at March 10, 2009 5:52 PM
"Now MY hair on the other hand, is typical of South Brooklyn circa 1983."
Not true at all...you have nice hair, and it was a beautiful dark glossy color.
I, on the other hand, am going grey. Meaning I've stopped dying it after 10 years. And WOW - who knew all that grey was in there!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 5:54 PM
Biff, you single?
Mind you,I'm not asking for me.
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:54 PM
Sorry, THL, I've worn them in public!
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 5:56 PM
Me too C.H. My question is, why do they have to be a different texture? My hair is very straight and then the gray pieces stand up on end like "HEY LOOK AT ME!! I"M RIGHT HERE!! CAN YOU SEE ME?? YOO WHOO!!
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 5:58 PM
Biff, you single?
Mind you,I'm not asking for me.
THL--you musn't have been around one day a few weeks ago when Biff explained his status.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 6:00 PM
Yes! The grey ones are wiggly and wiry where my 'real' hair was bone straight and smooth. It's freaky. Silicon hair smoothers are my new BFF!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 6:01 PM
aaaah, cobble thanks for the compliment.
My dark glossy color can be gotten at a Salon on 5th Avenue (Manhattan).
Posted by: bayridgegirl at March 10, 2009 6:01 PM
WASDER! Tell me that story...pretty please...it will make my day. Really. It's been a bad day. Take pity on me! ; )
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 6:02 PM
I missed that. Can someone provide me the cliff notes?
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 6:02 PM
cobble---sorry I went away for a little while. Simon is equally as bizarrely ostentatious in person as he is on the show. Its not an act for the cameras. And he pronounces Francoise's name just the same way. Its not so much that there was any amazing story so much as he completely confirmed that he is as big a douchebag in real life as he is on TV.
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 6:04 PM
Biff-- i leave it to you to disclose your "status".
Posted by: wasder at March 10, 2009 6:05 PM
So did anyone watch Dancing with the Stars?
Posted by: bayridgegirl at March 10, 2009 6:05 PM
All my grays are front and center at my hairline and stick straight up no matter what I do. I yank them out (damn those suckers hold on tight!) and they come right back twofold. I'm too young for this!
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 6:06 PM
Did you and hubby have fun boogying last night after the show BRG?
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 6:06 PM
Fair enough.
I bid you all adieu!
Wwoah, sorry guys, I must have channeled Simon for a moment!
Night!
Posted by: TownhouseLady at March 10, 2009 6:08 PM
Oh well, thanks wasder! Rats, I was hoping for a real Simon-ism. I know people with kids at PS 29 - he's icky there, too.
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 6:10 PM
I wish I could say I'm too young for greys, but really I'm right on track...I have a big white patch in the front - same as other women in my family. So I brush my hair in a way that covers the white!
Au revoir THL! [I think the 'dynamic duo' are on tv tonight - I'm making BH watch!]
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 6:13 PM
I've been graying since my mid-late 20s. :(
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 6:14 PM
Maybe this should be a spa/hair coloring party instead of being at a bar!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 6:15 PM
While we are at it, I could use a haircut too!
Posted by: InsertSnappyNameHere at March 10, 2009 6:20 PM
> "have a big white patch in the front"
Cruella De CobbleHill?
Posted by: SnarkSlope at March 10, 2009 6:52 PM
If only...my life would be complete. [mwah ha ha ha!]
[Snarky...sweetums, will you be gracing us with your presence at the party?]
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 7:18 PM
Cobblehiller, East New York: DIBS and Biff have just demonstrated the principle of calling people. All you have to do is ask Biff for a name or two and then you call up the person cold (practice first) and say your nice friend Biff referred you and does he know of any openings?
If you're applying to a named company online, chances are pretty good you should be able to find someone who knows someone who can tell you the name of the hiring manager. Then call them and just say you saw their ad and state your qualifications in one sentence and ask for an interview. Be brief.
I forgot the most important part: Your job as an unemployed person is to get interviews, not send in resumes. The headhunter said if I went on five interviews, someone would offer me a job. Turned out I got one in three interviews. But I was young, 22.
Anyone laid off now has my heartfelt best wishes. This is a very difficult time to be looking. Very few industries are hiring. Think health care.
DIBS, those boots are gorgeous and would look nice with pegged, slightly short wool pants and a simple sweater. Though we don't want you looking like a gestapo agent crossed with Pee-Wee Herman. Unless that's your thing, of course.
Posted by: mopar at March 10, 2009 7:38 PM
Try cuffs on the pants.
Posted by: mopar at March 10, 2009 7:39 PM
The headhunter gave me a private directory of managers in the field I was looking in. This was the 1980s. You don't need that any more because there is Facebook, LinkedIn, Google. You can find managers at any company just by googling the name and "president"
etc.
Never call the HR department. Please! What a waste of time. Call the hiring manager.
Practice until it sounds like the most natural thing in the world. If you act like it is, everyone else will act like it is too. People are surprisingly eager to help.
Posted by: mopar at March 10, 2009 7:45 PM
Good story, What. That's the way. Did you see the story a few days ago about how a school in Ohio got 7,000 applications for a janitor position? They must have been offering health insurance.
Posted by: mopar at March 10, 2009 7:48 PM
"Good story, What. That's the way. Did you see the story a few days ago about how a school in Ohio got 7,000 applications for a janitor position? They must have been offering health insurance."
Yep! I bet someone was happy to get off their ass and get that job!
"our job as an unemployed person is to get interviews, not send in resumes."
Ding Ding Ding! If I was unemployed, I would go Ape-Sh*t looking for a job now!! The person who gets off their ass and looks for work gets a BETTER job than the Asshead who sits home all day posting on Brownstoner! The internet makes people lazy! No one wants to bang on people doors. Screw that Sh*t!! I'm not gonna stave to death without going out with a fight!!!!
The What (Brownstoner Employment Director of Asshat Resources)
Someday this war is gonna end...
Posted by: Return of The What at March 10, 2009 8:05 PM
mopar - Lovely, thank you - you cheered me up no end.
In my experience that worked when I was 20, and needed a job. But now, this is not the way...unless of course I want a job as a janitor. Although it may come to that, I'm not there yet. [Btw, my grandfather - a banker on Wall St. - became a janitor for awhile when his company has 'issues' in the depression.]
"The What (Brownstoner Employment Director of Asshat Resources)"
What - please don't change - ever.
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 8:31 PM
mopar, I have a few more things to say to you. [You can take this with a grain of salt What.]
I really take offense to the tone of your post. You don't know me, or what I do or what it takes to get a job at my level in my field at this time. Yet, you seem to be great taking liberties and making assumptions with your post. Which, I may add, seems to be based on an experience you had some good number of years ago.
I have been networking and talking to past employers and contacts and making efforts. I've made a website for myself, created a postcard and a mailing list of over 100 possible employers. I get up every morning and shower and dress. I'm not sitting on my ass eating bon bons and just posting on Brownstoner. I've been busy.
You have a very patrician/authoritarian attitude that really comes across and, frankly, its offensive. I come from a very well educated and successful family. I've been plenty successful to date. My mistake was taking a job at a bank a year ago and being last in, first out.
I don't need your attitude during a period that is difficult enough as it is.
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 8:47 PM
I have to agree with What on this in this job environment...
"Ding Ding Ding! If I was unemployed, I would go Ape-Sh*t looking for a job now!! The person who gets off their ass and looks for work gets a BETTER job than the Asshead who sits home all day posting on Brownstoner! The internet makes people lazy! No one wants to bang on people doors. Screw that Sh*t!! I'm not gonna stave to death without going out with a fight!!!!"
I may argue with him about a lot of shit but he's right here.. Pound the pavement.
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 10, 2009 9:18 PM
> "[Snarky...sweetums, will you be gracing us with your presence at the party?]"
No, I think for now I will be keeping my mingling to the digital realm. Someday, mayhaps, we will meet in meatspace.
Meanwhile I wish you the very best of luck with your hunt. Like you, I was working at a bank (rhymes with Pretty Poop), but started a new gig this year. I had an "in" from a guy who used to work with me back at said bank.
Again, best of luck in the search. Sounds like you are doing all the right things. So chin up, good things can happen, even in these trying times.
Posted by: SnarkSlope at March 10, 2009 9:47 PM
Snarky - Impressive! You have somehow managed to make meeting in person sound... so... so... so...unappealing!
Be that way - it's our loss. We will toast to your Snarkitude nonetheless!
One day we'll talk 'banks'...the joy — the sorrow
And thank you kindly for your good thoughts...Chin up indeed!
I will not let the bastards get me down!
Posted by: cobblehiller at March 10, 2009 10:30 PM
"If I had kept the 65% cash that I put down it'd probably be about 35% smaller from the fall in the market."
The fall in the bed stuy RE market already made it 35% smaller. By the time the market bottoms it'll be 100% smaller. The $500K resale value will only pay for your outstanding balance and renovation costs. Like I said before, your downpayment will get vaporized. That's how deleverage works.
***Bid half off peak comps***
Posted by: Brownstones Half Off at March 10, 2009 11:55 PM
I guess you got it all figured out, BHO. Stay in that apartment with your 14 relatives and keep on paying the rent increases!!! ROTFLMMFAO
Posted by: daveinbedstuy at March 11, 2009 8:08 AM
Latest Restaurant Additions
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Le Barricou
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Cousin John's Café & Bakery
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