New York Shitty Video Du Jour, Part I: The Manhattan Avenue Kayak Launch, Revisited

Upon having it brought to my attention— yet again— that trash collection (among many other things) continues to be a problem at the Manhattan Avenue Kayak Launch, today I decided to swing by and see it for myself. While certainly better than it has been in days past, there is clearly still ample room for improvement. Not only was this apparent by the overflowing garbage cans, but it was pointed out to me by none other than Kate Zidar: the immensely dedicated and all-around nice lady who heads the Newtown Creek Alliance.

You see, as it would happen she was there with a film crew from Vice Magazine. They were awaiting the arrival of a boat to take them up the ‘creek. Anyhoo, not knowing anything about plants/plant life (other than having an uncanny ability to kill them*) I asked her if she would take a moment to explain what else is amiss at this piece of public space. She was kind enough to oblige me. Without further ado, here we go!

I suspect I speak on the behalf of many folks when I write that I was absolutely ecstatic when this park— however small it may be— finally opened. Thus, it makes me not only sad but quite angry to see it in such a state. Or to put it differently: if the powers-that-be cannot take care of a park as modest as this one, why should the problems at the McCarren Park (and specifically its pool) come as a surprise? I for one am not surprised. Disappointed and fed up? Absolutely. But surprised? No. We deserve better than this, north ‘Pointers. Really.

*Yours truly is more effective than pesticide. I have been known to even dispatch cactus to its maker on occasion (hence why I stick to jade plants). Thus I am very, seriously, grateful for Ms. Zidar bringing me (and us) up to speed. Thanks!