*Everyday Chatter

Not only is poet Frank O'Hara's last home being demolished for what neighbors say will be a new condo, it has also attracted a big rat:


The city officially begins the eminent domain process in Willets Point. [ITT]

As the city prepares to steal private businesses from Willets Point and replace them with luxury hotels and shops, it's training those skilled workers in how to properly serve the future customers of those luxury hotels and shops. How generous! [NYT]

Another upside to the economic crash, the monstrous tower planned for 8th Ave between 45th and 46th has been scrapped! Frankie & Johnnie's lives on. But, as Lost City points out, its neighbors were destroyed for nothing. [NYT]

When we lost Theatre 80 St. Marks, my heart broke. But at least it stayed a theater. Now it's shutting down to become "a commercial enterprise." [EVG]

Affluent teens may be forced to spend their summers babysitting or working at the local Hispanic community center. And the world will be a better place for it. [NYT]

Tipster Reed sent in a link to photographer Richard Friedman's treasure-trove of pics from late-60s, early-70s NYC. Can you spot the women's prison that once stood in the Village?

Our friends the Meatpacking Cats enjoy a breakfast of canned vittles--someone in that basement is taking good care of them:

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