CommunityBuzz! - 12th Annual Brooklyn Reality Tour (BRT) June 2, 2012

Announcing the 12th annual dhammer53 Brooklyn Reality Tour aka BRT. 1 or 2 seats available.

Date: June 2, 2012
Time: 9:30, with pushback at 10:00.

Theme: Returning to our roots with a 25 passenger van.
Dedication: BRT 12 is dedicated to newself (Dave) who passed away last year. He rode on BRT 1.
Theme: We're going to anty up some money to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation. http://dahlfund.org/ Details to follow.


The first 11 Brooklyn Tours were sellouts. BRT 4 - 7 I rented an airport type shuttle van. Last year we had a 50 passenger coach bus. We split the cost. This year, the cost will be about $60. per person.

Paypal details to be announced at a later date.

FYI, Catman will once again host the SoupDo on Friday night. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1302585-soup-do-9-friday-june-1-2012-a.html

We'll have WineDo 5 on Sunday evening.

Pick up 10:00 Saturday morning in the Grand Central Terminal neighborhood. Drop-off at 10:00pm. We have a tradition of departing ontime. ;)

Besides touring Brooklyn (my home town), we eat, and eat, and eat. Can you say 'real' Brooklyn pizza? Can you say 'delicious' bakery goodies? Just ask any of the folks who have been on this tour. We drive. We tour. We eat.

If you're new to Flyertalk, the tour is a great way to make new friends.
At the end of the BRT tours 2 - 11, we went for dinner at an authentic Italian place in an authentic Italian neighborhood. Lots of jewelry showing. This may or may not happen this year. All depends on the number of attendees.

Figure about $25- $30 a person if we do a sit down lunch or dinner. This is less than what you would pay in Manhattan; and twice the portion. The show is better than the food. If we do lunch, the cost will be $15 - $20. Details to be worked out.

Last year, the sit down was lunch. 2012 plans will depend on how many riders come along.

The lunch/dinner will be open to everyone. If you're not on the Tour, you'll have to take the subway to the restaurant. It's about 40 minutes and $2.25 one way. Several years ago, we had a few hitch-hikers on the van back to Manhattan.

Start planning now. Springtime in New York is beautiful. Consider yourself invited.

If you've been on the tour before and want to go again, please sign up, and consider yourself waitlisted. If you're from New York, you're waitlisted too. Thinking about bringing a friend or relative? They have no status; so we'll have to wait and see if they clear the DM list. All of the above lists will clear by May 15. Don't wait to decide.

Past tour highlights include:

2001...poor AnnaS having a cold.
2002...Lisamcgu making us stop for White castle hamburgers.
2003...mjm insisting on a Starbucks break. After I stopped laughing at him for thinking that Brooklyn would even have a Starbucks... we found one.
2004...gorging on food at marysunshine's house...and this was a snack!
2005...cawhite knocking on the door of my childhood home; while I ducked for cover. It was a priceless moment. Details towards the last page of the 2005 thread. Also, a Tony Soprano type sitting at the bar added some extra flavor to our experience.
2006...Our van squeezing past a doubleparked car on a side street. You can just imagine the typical Brooklyn swearing. Also, the tour getting its 15 minutes of fame on Cable television News 12 Brooklyn. Check it out http://news12.com/BK/topstories/article?id=175940# use name: dhammer53ft, password: flyertalk (may not work).
2007... When cawhites 'friend' Larry (the guy who always sits at the bar), checked us out!
2008... "I had no intention of stopping at my childhood home. As we approached, I told the driver to slow down, then stop. Seems the front door was wide open. I took this as a sign from above. I stopped the bus.
A couple of years back, cawhite knocked on the door. I ducked for cover. This year I was apprehensive as I approached. When I told the woman that she bought the house from my Mom, she said in typical Brooklyn fashion whats her name? When I responded, she had a big smile for me.
This may have been the moment on BRT 8. Every year, there's always one moment that's noteworthy".

2009... We were filmed throughout the day for a documentary. Maybe it'll even come out one of these days.
2011... the bus went MX (mechanical). 90 minute delay. :rolleyes:

Note:

We rotate seats on the bus. Seat 1A is reserved for a couple of long time attendees (yes, that means you). ;)
We make plenty of stops.


No talking miles and points when I'm (ahem) lecturing on Brooklyn.

It takes a certain type of person to put up with other Flyertalkers for an entire day. If you're looking for an excuse to visit NY (Brooklyn) in June, the dhammer53 Brooklyn Reality Tour is it.

Please post below if you're interested. I've met a few of you along the road this past year and you have 'dibs' if you're interested in joining us for a fun day in Brooklyn.

If you're interested in coming along, I need you to pm me your:

-Handle and real name.
-Hotel you're staying at, when available.
-Cell #

The 2007 thread here... http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthrea...light=brooklyn

2008 Trip Report here... http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=839107

2009 thread ... 9th annual Brooklyn Reality Tour. June 13, 2009 Saturday

2010 thread 10th Annual Brooklyn Reality Tour. Saturday June 12, 2010 Post 346 has a brief report.
Photos in 317 by tom911.



Note to new riders... I would suggest reading the 2011 thread to get a peak at what you can expect. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1187068-11th-annual-brooklyn-reality-tour-june-4-2011-saturday.html

Pick up location

Departure at 10:00am from the Grand Central Terminal area. Please arrive between 9:30 - 9:45.

234 East 46 street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue.
===============================================

If you're running late, here's directions to our first stop in Brooklyn. Here's the information now, just in case.

Take the #2 or the #3 train to Clark Street. This is the 7th Ave/Broadway train. It's the first stop in Brooklyn.
When you exit, ask anyone where the Promenade is. It's ~ 7 minute walk.

You can also take the #4 or #5 train (runs under Lexington Ave on the east side) to Borough Hall. That's the first stop in Brooklyn. Ask anyone where the Promenade is.

FYI, if you're interested in attending WineDo 5, here's the thread... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1311861-winedo-5-nyc-sunday-june-3-2012-post-brt.html#post17975682

So far: I lost count. Seats available.


cawhite - can't make it.
YEGcited
dhammer53 F/M
iluv2fly F
FortFun F
magic111 Rest in peace my friend.
gipsss F
KathyWdrf F
CDKing F
canucklehead M - has to back out.
roadwarrior365 M
JosephMay +1 M
CMK10 F
SFOTerry F
SFOMo F
JohnnieD MP
Robin MP
62asr FT =1 not paid
ande777emt F <<< missing in action
pfbloom F
dailycavalier
superdrew + 1 can't make it.
Owlchick <<< can't make it.
RapidTravelChai
jackal
freqflyercoll <<< can't make it
jetsetboy M
JanR


Waitlist


F - Flyertalk
M - Milepoint



Bolding - paid

Feel free to sign up. If you can't make it, please let me know, as I don't have the time to make inquiries. There. I said it nicely. ;)

I'm in.

Figures you'd be the first to post. :rolleyes: :p ^

Welcome.

And that I'd be number two? ;)

I'm in. :D

Three is a charm. Count me in. :cool:

Please count me in

I can't possibly miss this, either!!! :eek:

YGPM

This year i'm in for sure.

Hi Dan,

Please put me on the "return guest/NYC" wait list - I'd love to come again, but it's more important that there is enough room for the BRT virgins...

As the illustrious Dan personally Facebooked me to tell me to sign up, I'm doing so and with all due speed! I can't wait for this and to have as much or more fun as last year! With fewer breakdowns but just as much pastry/Italian food/hot dogs consumed.

Please add me and Mrs JM to the list.....

Howdy all,

Count me in as a BRT Virgin Attendee, for the full day's activities.

Howdy all,

Count me in as a BRT Virgin Attendee, for the full day's activities.

^ ^ Excellent. :D

Question: How feasible is it to get to the starting point on time from a scheduled 7:47am arrival at JFK? :eek:

Can it be done on public transportation?

Thanks!

Question: How feasible is it to get to the starting point on time from a scheduled 7:47am arrival at JFK? :eek:

Can it be done on public transportation?

Thanks!

Highly feasible (barring no flight delays) and it's as easy as pie on public transit. You'd ride the JFK Air Train to a NYC Subway stop (I'd suggest Jamaica on the E line) then take that into Manhattan at the Lexington Avenue station and either transfer to the 6 for a one stop ride to 42nd/Grand Central or simply walk from 53rd Street (easy).

Question: How feasible is it to get to the starting point on time from a scheduled 7:47am arrival at JFK? :eek:

Can it be done on public transportation?

Thanks!

Highly feasible (barring no flight delays) and it's as easy as pie on public transit. You'd ride the JFK Air Train to a NYC Subway stop (I'd suggest Jamaica on the E line) then take that into Manhattan at the Lexington Avenue station and either transfer to the 6 for a one stop ride to 42nd/Grand Central or simply walk from 53rd Street (easy).

You'll probably be the first one there SFOTerry. :D

You'll probably be the first one there SFOTerry. :D

Well then, please put me and SFOMo on the list and for the Wine Do too (no thread for that yet, correct?)

BTW - will there be room on/under/behind the bus for our 2 carryons, if necessary?

BTW - will there be room on/under/behind the bus for our 2 carryons, if necessary?

Unfortunately, you will have to check them and that will cost $30 for the frist bag and $50 for the second.

Unfortunately, you will have to check them and that will cost $30 for the frist bag and $50 for the second.

And if you use a Skycap, tip is NOT included in that amount :D

Please remind me again why I would ever want to return to NYC? :D

Well then, please put me and SFOMo on the list and for the Wine Do too (no thread for that yet, correct?)

BTW - will there be room on/under/behind the bus for our 2 carryons, if necessary?

I feel like I've had this conversation before. ;)

The van always has room for bags. Not a problem.

I'll eventually get around to posting WineDo 5. You can read about WineDo 4 here ... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1206422-winedo-4-sunday-june-5-2011-nyc-tribeca-post-brt.html
It will give you a taste of what to expect.

The van always has room for bags. Not a problem.


That's why I want to return to NYC - thanks! ;)

Luckily, I don't plan to bring my frist bag. :p

Count me in. (if there is still room)

+1 too. Thanks Dan. Looking forward. What is the first stop in BK, can I meet the tour there.

What is the first stop in BK, can I meet the tour there?

If you're running late, here's directions to our first stop in Brooklyn. Here's the information now, just in case.

Take the #2 or the #3 train to Clark Street. This is the 7th Ave/Broadway train. It's the first stop in Brooklyn.
When you exit, ask anyone where the Promenade is. It's ~ 7 minute walk.

You can also take the #4 or #5 train (runs under Lexington Ave on the east side) to Borough Hall. That's the first stop in Brooklyn. Ask anyone where the Promenade is.

+1 too. Thanks Dan. Looking forward. What is the first stop in BK, can I meet the tour there.

Who put you up to asking this question? :p See post 2. ;)

I've edited Milepost #4 on page 1 to reflect new attendees.

Guess who was featured in the Saturday www.frugaltravelguy.com blog? :o
cawhite, we may have a winner for the moment of BRT12. :cool:

I'm in. You've got my pm.

Airfare purchased. ^

Feel free to sign up. If you can't make it, please let me know, as I don't have the time to make inquiries. There. I said it nicely. ;)

I am in for doing the BRT 2012. Please add me to the list; PM any registration details -- I read a couple of the past blog accounts. Sounds Great !!

This sounds delightful, especially since my own New York experience extends only to the confines of LaGuarida. So yes, this will be my very first BRT!
Count me in for sure, and possibly a friend!

20 and Counting,
JBDIABM

Count me in. Looks like I might get the last seat!

Count me in. Looks like I might get the last seat!

Unless I counted wrong, you're #2 on the waitlist. Hang in there. Based on previous years, you have a good chance of clearing.

Milepost 4 has been updated.

I'm in +Mrs. Superdrew if a spot opens up!

I missed this last year, and looks like I'm late this year, too. :)

Please waitlist me!

Now to go read up on where people stay for this event... I'd just be coming up from BWI.

One on waitlist please.

This sounds fun, and I haven't even read the past years...unfortunately I just realized I'm too late. Could you please waitlist me too?

Edit: Also, add a +1 for me.

Please add me to the waitlist.

Currently based in NY but will never be "from NY." ;)

Milepost #4 has been edited to show the Waitlist. I know some of you will make it. :cool:

Dan

I'm in.
And that I'd be number two? ;)

I'm in. :D
Howdy all,

Count me in as a BRT Virgin Attendee, for the full day's activities.

That sounds like trouble in the making. So you'd better save me a seat at your dinner table. :p

So you'd better save me a seat at your dinner table. :p
I'll make sure to bring along a plastic bag. ;)

After far too many years, I'm moving away from this blasted frozen hellhole (which is so beautiful that everyone should come and visit it!) and into easy driving distance from NYC with frequent commutes to NYC for work.

Please add me to the waitlist!

After far too many years, I'm moving away from this blasted frozen hellhole (which is so beautiful that everyone should come and visit it!) and into easy driving distance from NYC with frequent commutes to NYC for work.

Please add me to the waitlist!

Details please....even offline:(

Waitlist me +1, please.

--Rich

Can you please add me to the waitlist. Thanks!

Well, hello all again.

I let Dan know via PM that I won't be able to make the whole Saturday event, so consider me un-RSVP'ed for the event. I have the joy of attending my cousin's 7th Birthday Party that morning!

I do, however hope to join you all for dinner (should that become the "big" meal) HintHint.


So, looking at the list, JimBob, looks as if Michelle (your +1) will be joining you :-P.

So, looking at the list, JimBob, looks as if Michelle (your +1) will be joining you :-P.

That is correct. I'm going to give kwildnj my password, since he now seems to be controlling the thread. :eek: :rolleyes: :p :D

Here's the thread on WineDo 5... http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1311861-winedo-5-nyc-sunday-june-3-2012-post-brt.html#post17975682

I won't be getting on the BRT but if Dan has the place on his list of stops again, I might be able to get to Ferrara's to join the group using up these coupons now on sale here:
https://www.google.com/offers/home?x=PQAAAFKBKzfS7ADdbyRXoMeSgbobb-NLyMWlWkJc4K7V93gTgvwRjuNihJ2RJhahH-iHZFbe9_MOPIyzxxXv9jHebU8&utm_source=google-offers&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=daily-offer#!details/19c59f83035fe282/UX81OBDIUW6B7AYN

I just booked and confirmed our 25 passenger van aka Abraham's van. We used him on BRT 4 - 7. After BRT 4, Abraham passed us off to other drivers. ;) :D

This booking also prevents me from the temptation of booking a larger bus.

As I said in the OP, we're going back to our roots. :cool:

monitor, see you around 9:00 on June 2.

magic111


It's with the deepest of hearts, and great sadness, that my old FT friend of 12 years, Jim, passed away last night. :(

No other info is available.

I spoke to Jim last Friday when I was in San Francisco. He just completed a mileage run.

Jim rode on BRT 1 and was to ride again in June. He'll be missed.

It's with the deepest of hearts, and great sadness, that my old FT friend of 12 years, Jim, passed away last night. :(

No other info is available.

I spoke to Jim last Friday when I was in San Francisco. He just completed a mileage run.

Jim rode on BRT 1 and was to ride again in June. He'll be missed.

That's terrible news :( I only met him once, at last year's Soup Do and he seemed a very kind, interesting man. What a great loss to FT :(

Dan, As usual, depending upon the itinerary, I'll do my best to join everyone for one of the meals.

It's also a good excuse to go visit the inlaws.

Jim was the person responsible for giving and naming the Brooklyn Reality Tour. At the time, I called it the Brooklyn Tour; but after the Kramer Reality Tour on Seinfeld, Jim decided that Brooklyn Reality Tour had the right ring to it. @:-)

Jim wrote the very first trip report for BRT. When I find it, I'll post it.

Dan, As usual, depending upon the itinerary, I'll do my best to join everyone for one of the meals.

It's also a good excuse to go visit the inlaws.

Same here as always and probably +1 for Lunch or Dinner at that!
Cheers
Howie

It was a beautiful sunny, warm, and white fluffy cloud day in White Plains today. Life goes on.

Looks like the tour will be dedicated to newself and magic111. :(

Looks like the tour will be dedicated to newself and magic111. :(

Two of FT's best; I think that would be quite appropriate, Dan. ^

Two of FT's best; I think that would be quite appropriate, Dan. ^
Agreed. I was very saddened to read the news yesterday of magic111's passing. I only met him once, but he was manifestly a wonderful man.

I believe this is the original trip report:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/trip-reports/179733-taste-brooklyn.html

I believe this is the original trip report:
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/trip-reports/179733-taste-brooklyn.html

Thanks. ^ ^ I was going to search for this over the weekend.

Payment information will come within 10 days. I have other family business to attend to. ;)

Payment information will come within 10 days. I have other family business to attend to. ;)

When ever your ready, i'm ready to pay :) I still need to find a hotel

deleted - posted in wrong thread

I'm PM'ing everyone Paypal information. If you don't have Paypal, please respond to the PM and I'll send you the address where you can mail a check.

Pre-payment is necessary so that nobody gets stuck paying additional. Refunds will be available only if I can find someone to take your place. This happens every year.

Payment is expect right away, since you'll probably forget if you don't pay now. :D And just for the record, I will not be following up with PM's if I don't hear from you.

See you on June 2.

Has a decision been made re: the "Big Meal" time? I know it usually is a dinner, but was discussed as a lunch, just wondering if that little tidbit had been decided?

Has a decision been made re: the "Big Meal" time? I know it usually is a dinner, but was discussed as a lunch, just wondering if that little tidbit had been decided?

I'll let you know when I figure things out. Either way, the cost will be about the same. L&B for pizza + a sit down meal.

Payment sent.

Has anyone seen any good hotel deals in the area near BRT hop on spot and SoupDO?

Payment sent!

I found a good rate at the Hilton Stamford and will be Metro Northing it after Soup Do and before the BRT. Did the same thing last year and it worked out just fine.

Superdrew + 1 just cleared the waitlist. You have PM.

Reminder.

I'm PM'ing everyone Paypal information. If you don't have Paypal, please respond to the PM and I'll send you the address where you can mail a check.

Pre-payment is necessary so that nobody gets stuck paying additional. Refunds will be available only if I can find someone to take your place. This happens every year.

Payment is expect right away, since you'll probably forget if you don't pay now. :D And just for the record, I will not be following up with PM's if I don't hear from you.

See you on June 2.

I'm PM'ing everyone Paypal information. If you don't have Paypal, please respond to the PM and I'll send you the address where you can mail a check.

Pre-payment is necessary so that nobody gets stuck paying additional. Refunds will be available only if I can find someone to take your place. This happens every year.

Payment is expect right away, since you'll probably forget if you don't pay now. :D And just for the record, I will not be following up with PM's if I don't hear from you.

See you on June 2.

I'll start clearing the waitlist on Sunday.

I can't believe it's been 7 years since my BRT adventure. For those of you going this year, have a great time, enjoy all of the delicious food and terrific company.

It's been a few years for me since my tour with you - and my unfortunate illness last year prevented me from coming in 2011.

I wish you all a very nice tour and hope that I will be able to join you (and get a seat on the bus) in one of the next years... Have fun - I'm sure that's also what Jim would have wanted for everybody...!

I'm PM'ing everyone Paypal information. If you don't have Paypal, please respond to the PM and I'll send you the address where you can mail a check.

Pre-payment is necessary so that nobody gets stuck paying additional. Refunds will be available only if I can find someone to take your place. This happens every year.

Payment is expect right away, since you'll probably forget if you don't pay now. :D And just for the record, I will not be following up with PM's if I don't hear from you.



I'll start clearing the waitlist tomorrow.

I can't believe it's been 7 years since my BRT adventure. For those of you going this year, have a great time, enjoy all of the delicious food and terrific company.

Who can forget your time on the BRT. :rolleyes: :p
A certain rider that year arrived late, then told me he was hungry as we sat in Friday morning traffic. :eek:

It's been a few years for me since my tour with you - and my unfortunate illness last year prevented me from coming in 2011.

I wish you all a very nice tour and hope that I will be able to join you (and get a seat on the bus) in one of the next years... Have fun - I'm sure that's also what Jim would have wanted for everybody...!

Danka Ralf. :o

I'm so excited, I don't know what to do, or whether I should fly up or take one of those buses up from B'more. :D

Yay!

I'm so excited, I don't know what to do, or whether I should fly up or take one of those buses up from B'more. :D

Yay!

Unless its super cheap no reason to waste money on Airfare. I'm taking the bus down from MA. It will probably cost more to get to Manhattan from the airport then to take the bus from Baltimore. Id die if i paid 50 cents a mile to fly somewhere

I'll start clearing the waitlist tomorrow.


Since it's tomorrow, I just cleared Owlchick.
3 others told me the check is forthcoming, and the others I haven't heard from.

Since I'm a nice guy, :o :rolleyes: :p I'll give those folks the benefit of the doubt and give them all of Sunday to let me know if they're coming on BRT 12.

Those of you waitlisted, please stand by as I clear the DM list. :D
PM's to follow late tomorrow evening with Paypal information.

Post #3 shows the waitlist. These folks are up first...

belle3388
freqflyercoll +1
RapidTravelChai

If you haven't figures this out yet, dhammer53 runs a very tight ship...er bus.

Since it's tomorrow, I just cleared Owlchick.
3 others told me the check is forthcoming, and the others I haven't heard from.

Since I'm a nice guy, :o :rolleyes: :p I'll give those folks the benefit of the doubt and give them all of Sunday to let me know if they're coming on BRT 12.

Those of you waitlisted, please stand by as I clear the DM list. :D
PM's to follow late tomorrow evening with Paypal information.

Post #3 shows the waitlist. These folks are up first...

belle3388
freqflyercoll +1
RapidTravelChai

Oops, sorry to inform you that belle can't go. ;):p:D

If you haven't figures this out yet, dhammer53 runs a very tight ship...er bus.

This means all riders have to tuck in their shirts this year. :p

Oops, sorry to inform you that belle can't go. ;):p:D

jackal, now that you're a New Yorker, I'm sure you know that New Yorkers know how to 'read between the lines'. Or is this case, below the line. ;)

PM's outbound to the first group on the waitlist.

jackal, you cleared. Look for a PM with Paypal instructions.

I updated the list on the first page.

It appears that jackal may be convincing me to spend some time in NYC that weekend, so please add me to the waitlist. :)

Dan, Do you have a route/meal plan yet? I'm sure we can go visit the in-laws at some point that day, and perhaps join in for lunch or dinner.

Has a decision been made re: the "Big Meal" time? I know it usually is a dinner, but was discussed as a lunch, just wondering if that little tidbit had been decided?

I'll let you know when I figure things out. Either way, the cost will be about the same. L&B for pizza + a sit down meal.

Dan, Do you have a route/meal plan yet? I'm sure we can go visit the in-laws at some point that day, and perhaps join in for lunch or dinner.

Mary2e, plan on visiting your Brooklyn family sometime on Saturday June 2. The plan: L&B for lunch. ETA 12:30 - 1:00. http://www.spumonigardens.com/home.html

I've been slowly clearing the waitlist. Some posters haven't responded yet. :eek: A couple of posters told me they would Paypal after Easter. Psst. It's after Easter. ;)

With the exception of reminders on this thread, everyone received one PM from me with Paypal information.

If I don't hear back from people by Monday, I'll do what the airlines do. ;)

The gate area will be a free-for-all. :D As everyone can see, the tour is just about sold out.

kipper, I'll get back to you next week.

dh

Thanks. What about dinner?

Since we're "returning to our roots" (as Da Hammer* put it) with a 25-pax van, is there any chance of returning to our favorite dinner restaurant, Fiorentino's? :cool:



* Not a typo

Thanks. What about dinner?

N.B. to all BRT 12 riders. All Brooklynites care about is eating.
We'll do plenty of eating on BRT 12. I promise.

2e, I wanted to try a new place for dinner, but the last time I experimented, it wasn't pretty. I'll probably go back to the same place we've been going to for lunch the past few years. Good food and cheap. Estimated cost ~$28.00. After dinner, time permitting, we may stop at a Beer Hall just off Bedford Ave in Williamsburg. BRT 11 riders will remember WB. It's where we had a mechanical last year. :rolleyes: :D Riders will have the option of leaving the tour here. The L train stops on Bedford Ave for a fast trip back to 14th street in Manhattan, where you can transfer to a variety of subway lines.

From WB we'll head to http://www.ferraracafe.com/home.php in Little Italy in Manhattan. Some riders leave the tour here, while the last holdouts suffer through the Rockwelll-esq trip back to Grand Central Terminal. http://www.google.com/imgres?q=norman+rockwell+vacation&hl=en&sa=X&biw=1679&bih=834&tbm=isch&prmd=imvnso&tbnid=WM-E6NH_4nPuqM:&imgrefurl=http://mommylife.net/archives/2011/07/norman_rockwell_5.html&docid=xlLm2y2v36nTjM&imgurl=http://www.mommylife.net/goingcoming.jpg&w=360&h=385&ei=NOOOT6jjK6HL0QHd-9XADw&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=326&vpy=142&dur=2962&hovh=232&hovw=217&tx=93&ty=251&sig=112599735948295086388&page=1&tbnh=157&tbnw=147&start=0&ndsp=40&ved=1t:429,r:1,s:0,i:71
They're all so excited in the morning, and so exhausted in the evening. ;)

dh

is there any chance of returning to our favorite dinner restaurant, Fiorentino's?


No. It's a timing/neighborhood/food thing. :p

I realize the odds are probably slim given the waitlist, but I have a friend who would like to be my +1 if she could clear the waitlist. She grew up in Brooklyn and she was very excited (and understandably jealous) when I told her about BRT 12.

dhammer53, could you add my +1 to the waitlist? Thanks.

I realize the odds are probably slim given the waitlist

dhammer53, could you add my +1 to the waitlist? Thanks.

Done. The way things work with Flyertalkers, anything is possible.

For those of you that have a day to kill, check out this walking tour. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/new-york-city/677835-things-do-nyc.html#post18416989

No. It's a timing/neighborhood/food thing. :p

And/or maybe a grudge thing? ;)

Speaking of other leisure activities for that weekend, let me mention some freebies:

Friday from 4-8 PM, free admission to MoMA (Free Fridays sponsored by Target)

First full weekend of each month (Saturday/Sunday), free admission to a large number of museums nationwide (Bank of America Museums on Us); includes (in NYC), the Met, the Whitney, and several others (admission for one per B of A credit or debit card presented).

http://museums.bankofamerica.com//

~what time will dinner be?

And all meals are pay at time of ingestion, correct?

Yes, I am a pain. you can quote me on that.

jackal, you cleared.

Jackal, I guess I'll be seeing you at two DO's in the same month. ^

~what time will dinner be?

And all meals are pay at time of ingestion, correct?

Yes, I am a pain. you can quote me on that.

I've had hecklers and troublemakers before. Brooklynites will tell you that those people may have gone missing. :eek: ;) Everyone growing up (in my neighborhood) knew at least one person that was, shall we say, connected. When I was 18, I worked for one of those people (in a legit job). One afternoon, he called me into his office and said dhammer53, if anyone ever gives you a hard time, let me know. :eek: It was nice having the power. :D

So kwildnj, to answer your question, yes. You're a pain. FYI, Benny8884 hasn't been heard from since he was on the tour several years ago.

The pizza stop at L&B and our dinner stop is pay as you go. I expect dinner will be a set menu in the $28 neighborhood. Last year I arranged appys and entrees + soft drinks at that price all-in. As for the folks that complained about the food, I haven't seen or heard from them since.

Dinner at the TBD restaurant will be around 5:00 5:30.

Got my plane tickets for the event today, I guess it's really for real now! :D

Dan, I hate to ask because I'm now scared of you and your Mob connections, but about what time will dinner be finished? I have a 11:45 PM train from Penn Station.

I've had hecklers and troublemakers before. Brooklynites will tell you that those people may have gone missing. :eek: ;) Everyone growing up (in my neighborhood) knew at least one person that was, shall we say, connected. When I was 18, I worked for one of those people (in a legit job). One afternoon, he called me into his office and said dhammer53, if anyone ever gives you a hard time, let me know. :eek: It was nice having the power. :D

So kwildnj, to answer your question, yes. You're a pain. FYI, Benny8884 hasn't been heard from since he was on the tour several years ago.

The pizza stop at L&B and our dinner stop is pay as you go. I expect dinner will be a set menu in the $28 neighborhood. Last year I arranged appys and entrees + soft drinks at that price all-in. As for the folks that complained about the food, I haven't seen or heard from them since.

Dinner at the TBD restaurant will be around 5:00 5:30.

Can I borrow your mob connections to deal with my neighbor problems? :D

Can I go for it? Terms and conditions?

Can I go for it? Terms and conditions?

Can you go for what?

- BRT? If so, you can waitlist.
- L&B pizza lunch? You can just come by.
- Dinner? Sure. Everyone is invited.

Can you go for what?

- BRT? If so, you can waitlist.
- L&B pizza lunch? You can just come by.
- Dinner? Sure. Everyone is invited.

Dan, you're being too kind. You should have simply pointed to post #1, where these questions are already answered. :p

Pick up location

Departure at 10:00am from the Grand Central Terminal area. Please arrive between 9:30 - 9:45.

234 East 46 street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue.
===============================================

If you're running late, here's directions to our first stop in Brooklyn. Here's the information now, just in case.

Take the #2 or the #3 train to Clark Street. This is the 7th Ave/Broadway train. It's the first stop in Brooklyn.
When you exit, ask anyone where the Promenade is. It's ~ 7 minute walk.

You can also take the #4 or #5 train (runs under Lexington Ave on the east side) to Borough Hall. That's the first stop in Brooklyn. Ask anyone where the Promenade is.

Dan, you're being too kind. You should have simply pointed to post #1, where these questions are already answered. :p

Kathy, truth be told, I was waiting for someone to ask where the pickup location is. ;) I do have faith. Someone will ask this question sometime between now and the morning of the BRT.

I updated the list of attendees on page 1. As promised, I haven't chased down anyone this year. As someone that's done this 12 times, I have to say it's liberating. When y'all are on the bus, I'll say out loud what I'm really feeling. :eek:

dh

Announcing the 12th annual dhammer53 Brooklyn Reality Tour aka BRT.

Theme: We're going to anty up some money to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation. http://dahlfund.org/ Details to follow.



I just read this Flyertalk announcement...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/give-dahl-fund-may-11-win-ride-2-aas-oldest-surviving-plane-514.html

The riders of BRT 12 will be making their first joint donation of $250 next week.
Any money leftover after expenses will be donated to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation.

Kathy, truth be told, I was waiting for someone to ask where the pickup location is. ;) I do have faith. Someone will ask this question sometime between now and the morning of the BRT.

I updated the list of attendees on page 1. As promised, I haven't chased down anyone this year. As someone that's done this 12 times, I have to say it's liberating. When y'all are on the bus, I'll say out loud what I'm really feeling. :eek:

dh

:D I figure that if I clear the waitlist, and jackal is my ride, I can depend on him for where/when I need to be. :D

I just read this Flyertalk announcement...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/give-dahl-fund-may-11-win-ride-2-aas-oldest-surviving-plane-514.html

The riders of BRT 12 will be making their first joint donation of $250 next week.
Any money leftover after expenses will be donated to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation.

If you send me a PM with PayPal info, it will be my pleasure to add $25 to the fund -- through the BRT. There is no way in hell that I am going to contribute directly and take a chance of having to fly in AA's oldest surviving plane.

I've had hecklers and troublemakers before.



Hence, I am no longer allowed on BRTs.

For those of you who are not getting enough food on the BRT, and will be in Brooklyn other than Friday night or Saturday, I am re-posting here a discovery that I made the day after the one BRT I attended:




Run, do not walk, to Adelman's Kosher Deli on Kings Highway and E. 19th St in Brooklyn.

I found it by luck a couple of weeks ago. It is a small, Mom & Pop type deli, but the walls are covered with Brooklyn Dodgers memorabilia. Dodger baseball cards, Dodger pictures, Dodger shirts, and Dodger pennants are all over the place (as is a picture of Ebbets Field).

The one exception is a large picture of Jumpin' Joe DiMaggio at bat.

I went there with the UIG -- who had never heard of the Dodgers (either version) and only knew the name "Joe DiMaggio" from the song Mrs. Robinson. She was, however, fascinated to learn that two such different men as DiMaggio and Arthur Miller had married Marilyn Monroe.

If you send me a PM with PayPal info, it will be my pleasure to add $25 to the fund -- through the BRT. There is no way in hell that I am going to contribute directly and take a chance of having to fly in AA's oldest surviving plane.

:D You could always contribute and take the chance. Should you win, you could give the ride to Mr. Kipper, hoping he doesn't survive the flight. :D

:D I figure that if I clear the waitlist, and jackal is my ride, I can depend on him for where/when I need to be. :D

I'll say it just so no one else says it:

You're likely to miss the entire thing, then. :p

If you ever attend one of the Alaska DOs, you'll notice I don't run my ship nearly as tightly as dhammer53.

And yet somehow we've made all of our glacier cruises, train departures, state fair concerts, etc... ;)

I'll say it just so no one else says it:

You're likely to miss the entire thing, then. :p

If you ever attend one of the Alaska DOs, you'll notice I don't run my ship nearly as tightly as dhammer53.

And yet somehow we've made all of our glacier cruises, train departures, state fair concerts, etc... ;)

:D Are you that bad? :D

If I've not consumed an entire pot of coffee by about 8:30 that morning, I'm likely to still be stumbling around, half asleep, so someone's help in ensuring that I arrive at the pick-up location, at the designated time, would be appreciated. :D

If you send me a PM with PayPal info, it will be my pleasure to add $25 to the fund -- through the BRT. There is no way in hell that I am going to contribute directly and take a chance of having to fly in AA's oldest surviving plane.


Hence, I am no longer allowed on BRTs.



Chaver, you always have a seat on the BRT. Same goes for the UIG.
I'll PM the information later or tomorrow, which I guess will be tomorrow anyway. ;)

If you ever attend one of the Alaska DOs, you'll notice I don't run my ship nearly as tightly as dhammer53.


I have to run a tight ship. We have a long day, and well, you know Flyertalkers. :p It's the fear of God that motivates everyone to come on time. :D Since this is a travel website, I want my stats reported as on time to the FAA. :D

Several years ago, 2 riders came 30 minutes late. :eek: They helped me correct the issue for future BRT's. ;)

I'll PM the information later or tomorrow, which I guess will be tomorrow anyway. ;)


I'll be going to sleep in about 30 minutes, so it will definitely be tomorrow before I see it.

As a two year veteran of BRT, while I lament the loss of the bus(and with that, my ride), Safe to say I will take the subway down to L&B for lunch...man I miss that slice of pizza...plus I can no longer heckle Pops... :)

I have to run a tight ship. We have a long day, and well, you know Flyertalkers. :p It's the fear of God that motivates everyone to come on time. :D Since this is a travel website, I want my stats reported as on time to the FAA. :D

Try leaving ANC at 7:00am to meet a 10:00am glacier cruise and not winding down the day's activities until past midnight.

THEN tell me the BRT is a long day. :p

On the Alaska DOs, I rarely ask for prepayment for the smaller expenses (vans/gas, etc.). Instead, I simply threaten that lack of payment will leave one stranded quite literally in the middle of nowhere. This year, the middle of nowhere will be about 90 miles on a dirt road outside of Nome. ;)

I'll say it just so no one else says it:

You're likely to miss the entire thing, then. :p

If you ever attend one of the Alaska DOs, you'll notice I don't run my ship nearly as tightly as dhammer53.

And yet somehow we've made all of our glacier cruises, train departures, state fair concerts, etc... ;)I am NOT going to take such an easy shot;):rolleyes:

I am NOT going to take such an easy shot;):rolleyes:

Hence my first line:

I'll say it just so no one else says it:

:p

I am NOT going to take such an easy shot;):rolleyes::rolleyes: :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
But I cannot resist since it was axiomatic in Anchorage that to jackal, appointment times were never much more than an approximation. But it must be said that he almost always got the day correct. :D

No. It's a timing/neighborhood/food thing. :p

Another year without Larry? I may have to head to Fiorentino's for dinner on Friday night. :p

If you ever attend one of the Alaska DOs, you'll notice I don't run my ship nearly as tightly as dhammer53.


As the survery on this post (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1084750-127-pounds-cabbage-do-anchorage-seward-alaska-state-fair-august-27-29-30-a.html) points out:

http://poley.smugmug.com/Other/Travel/i-V4RM6jd/0/XL/Jackal-Mobile-XL.jpg

As the survery on this post (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/1084750-127-pounds-cabbage-do-anchorage-seward-alaska-state-fair-august-27-29-30-a.html) points out:

Seeing as how 200 votes were cast by 49 registered voters, I would put about as much confidence in this poll as I would a Chicago election. ;)

Be careful complaining too much, or next time the jackal-mobile may skip your stop in order to make up time. :p

I just read this Flyertalk announcement...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/give-dahl-fund-may-11-win-ride-2-aas-oldest-surviving-plane-514.html

The riders of BRT 12 will be making their first joint donation of $250 next week.
Any money leftover after expenses will be donated to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation.

Earlier today, I made the first donation to the Captain Jason Dahl Fund on behalf of the BRT. I received a nice note this afternoon from Captain Denny.

Here's some of what he had to say... We are up to $2175 and still have about two weeks to go.
Sept 11th was a terrible day for everyone and I appreciate all the help Flyer Talk has given us.

Captain Denny had a great suggestion to increase your chances of winning...

Since the ride we are giving on the Stinson Tri-Motor is for the winner and their guest have your subscribers pair up and split the $25. This will benefit them and the Capt Jason Dahl Scholarship. You can even make it fun and have them donate with someone they don't know. If they win then they can each bring a friend along and the quests can watch the winners take the ride. (Just between you and me. The Stinson seats I believe nine customers but the owner never takes more than five.) With four people does that event become a "DO"????

I saw that your tour is supporting the Capt Dahl Scholarship. I will be sure to let his wife, Sandy, know about your efforts.

I was saving the best for last... My first trip to NYC was in 1974 and I was introduced to "A Slice". New Yorkers will smile when they read this. ;) :o :D

If you have a few extra dollars, why don't you team up and make a donation to the Captain Jason Dahl Fund? Anyone want to team up with me for the first $25?

dh

For those coming early to NYC or are already here, I will be kicking off the weekend with a dinner on thursday night. In 2010 bundy_bear made history as the first person to go to 4 different DO's in 4 days as he attended "DDD, Soup Do, BRT, and Wine Do. I wonder who will attempt it this year? Details for the DO are here in the communitybuzz thread.

Anyone want to team up with me for the first $25?

dh

It would be my pleasure to. ;)

I just read this Flyertalk announcement...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/communitybuzz/give-dahl-fund-may-11-win-ride-2-aas-oldest-surviving-plane-514.html

The riders of BRT 12 will be making their first joint donation of $250 next week.
Any money leftover after expenses will be donated to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation.

Dovster, myself, and iluv2fly have made contributions, bring the BRT total up to $300. :o

I have leftover BRT black baseball caps. For a donation to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation of $25, I'll send you your official BRT cap. The first two people to PM me will get the cap. After that, additional caps will be available for a $50 donation. Please use the link above. Don't forget to send me your Paypal confirmation. ;)

dh

Something's come up so I'll have to bow out. :(

Feel free to donate my contribution to your Captain Jason Dahl Foundation fund!

I'm sorry to have gone missing in action. Real Life intervened. My work schedule has exploded, and I don't think that I'll be able to make it out to NYC for the Tour.

So, I'll go ahead an give up my seat to someone who is patiently waiting on the standby list. And plan on getting in on the action next year!

Dovster, myself, and iluv2fly have made contributions, bring the BRT total up to $300. :o

I have leftover BRT black baseball caps. For a donation to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation of $25, I'll send you your official BRT cap. The first two people to PM me will get the cap. After that, additional caps will be available for a $50 donation. Please use the link above. Don't forget to send me your Paypal confirmation. ;)


Collectible and soon to be scarce caps are still available.

Something's come up so I'll have to bow out. :(

Feel free to donate my contribution to your Captain Jason Dahl Foundation fund!

Sorry that you can't make it. I'll donate your $60. ^ This will increase our total.



So, I'll go ahead an give up my seat to someone who is patiently waiting on the standby list. And plan on getting in on the action next year!

Not to worry. I took your seat when you were missing in action. :D

Post #3 is now updated. As of today, just one person is on the waitlist.

Here's an e mail that I received about the BRT donation...

Dan,

You folks really put us over the top. I have been involved since inception with the Dahl Fund and I have to say
I'm amazed at the generosity of folks such as yourself.

Thank You,

David Dosch

and...

Dan,

Please send them all my thank You as well.
You folks rule.

David

Mr. Kipper thinks he'll be home from his trip before Memorial Day, so I'm going to bow out, as no offense to anyone, but it just being a week or two after he returns home, I'd prefer to spend the weekend with him. :D

Mr. Kipper thinks he'll be home from his trip before Memorial Day, so I'm going to bow out, as no offense to anyone, but it just being a week or two after he returns home, I'd prefer to spend the weekend with him. :D

Shame, I was looking forward to meeting you :(

Shame, I was looking forward to meeting you :(

As was I. Hopefully, we can arrange something else soon.

Guess I'll book train tickets, then...

Shame, I was looking forward to meeting you :(

As was I. Hopefully, we can arrange something else soon.

Guess I'll book train tickets, then...

Sorry! I'd love to meet everyone, but with Mr. Kipper out of town as much as he is, I'm feeling like I should spend the time with him when he is home.

A seat just became available. If you're interested, let me know.

Dan

Dovster, myself, and iluv2fly have made contributions, bring the BRT total up to $300. :o

I have leftover BRT black baseball caps. For a donation to the Captain Jason Dahl Foundation of $25, I'll send you your official BRT cap. The first two people to PM me will get the cap. After that, additional caps will be available for a $50 donation. Please use the link above. Don't forget to send me your Paypal confirmation. ;)


I'll sweeten the deal. For the same $25, you can get a baseball cap and a BRT t-shirt that I had leftover from BRT 8. Delivered on the tour. If you can't join us, I'll mail (post) this domestically.

Counting down until BRT 12 in 25 days! http://itsalmo.st/#brt12

Counting down until BRT 12 in 25 days! http://itsalmo.st/#brt12

:confused:

You posted this on Sunday, May 6 -- BRT is on Saturday, June 2 -- about 27 days, not 25.

A seat just became available. If you're interested, let me know.

Dan

I'd ask but my GF cant get the days off :( Doesnt matter she woudl probably get bored anyways.

I'd ask but my GF cant get the days off :( Doesnt matter she woudl probably get bored anyways.

Go without her, if she has to work. I opted not to go, as Mr. Kipper will be home just a week or two from a trip to QJB, but had his trip been as long as scheduled, I'd have attended, as he'd still be in QJB.

Go without her, if she has to work. I opted not to go, as Mr. Kipper will be home just a week or two from a trip to QJB, but had his trip been as long as scheduled, I'd have attended, as he'd still be in QJB.

I was not planning on missing this. I passed up a few good MR's to keep the weekend open

I was not planning on missing this. I passed up a few good MR's to keep the weekend open

o.O What good MRs did I miss?!

I might have skipped out on this for some cheap miles. ;)

o.O What good MRs did I miss?!

I might have skipped out on this for some cheap miles. ;)

I missed the last BRT because I didn't think I would be awake enough after OZ Fest. However i was totally wrong.

Not the best MR's but there were some good deals to LAS and PHX

If I were you, I'd e mail this to myself, or write it down. ;)

Pick up location

Departure at 10:00am from the Grand Central Terminal area. Please arrive between 9:30 - 9:45.

234 East 46 street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue. This is the east side of Manhattan.
===============================================

If you're running late, here's directions to our first stop in Brooklyn. Here's the information now, just in case.

Take the #2 or the #3 train to Clark Street. This is the 7th Ave/Broadway train. It's the first stop in Brooklyn.
When you exit, ask anyone where the Promenade is. It's ~ 7 minute walk.

You can also take the #4 or #5 train (runs under Lexington Ave on the east side) to Borough Hall. That's the first stop in Brooklyn. Ask anyone where the Promenade is.

A seat just became available. If you're interested, let me know.


1 seat available.

I will PM my cell phone number to anyone that requests it. If you're running late, you'll need it.

It looks like we aren't going to be able to make it, anyone on the waitlist interested in purchasing my two spots?

It looks like we aren't going to be able to make it, anyone on the waitlist interested in purchasing my two spots?

Sorry to hear this. superdrew, After the next 2 people sign up, I'll arrange a refund.

There are a total of 4 available seats.

I'll sweeten the deal. For the same $25, you can get a baseball cap and a BRT t-shirt that I had leftover from BRT 8. Delivered on the tour. If you can't join us, I'll mail (post) this domestically.

That is a very generous deal sweetener ^

After learning more about the Dahl Fund (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/flyertalk-cares/1337056-dahl-fund-may-11-win-ride-aas-oldest-plane-670-go-another-seat.html), I decided to donate and recommend others consider it. It's truly a great cause and I'm glad that BRT 12 supports it.

If you choose to donate, details are in this thread (http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/flyertalk-cares/1337056-dahl-fund-may-11-win-ride-aas-oldest-plane-670-go-another-seat.html).

3 weeks from today. Plan on arriving 9:30 - 9:45. Due to Federal regulations, we close the doors at 10:00 for an ontime departure, and pushback about 10:04.

By this time on June 2, we'll have already begun our day of eating. http://www.spumonigardens.com/home.html

Followed by http://www.yelp.com/biz/teenas-cake-fair-brooklyn
If you search the BRT 11 thread (link in the OP), you can find write ups and pictures (?) of Teena's.

Bonus trivia question. Who knows why the BRT departs from this location (oldtimers on the tour can't answer). New riders... feel free to cheat by PM'ing the oldtimers. ;) :p
The prize is a BRT black baseball cap.

I have a conflict: Amsterdam or Brooklyn? Sooooooo hard to decide!

:p

Bonus trivia question. Who knows why the BRT departs from this location (oldtimers on the tour can't answer). New riders... feel free to cheat by PM'ing the oldtimers. ;) :p
The prize is a BRT black baseball cap.

Hint: the answer can be found by PM'ing the guy who insisted on stopping at a Starbucks in Brooklyn.


I have a conflict: Amsterdam or Brooklyn? Sooooooo hard to decide!

:p

:p :D

I wouuld choose Brooklyn and come in a day earlier for an incredible evening at a little French Bistro in Manhattan! :)

I have a conflict: Amsterdam or Brooklyn? Sooooooo hard to decide!

:p

How about both? NEW Amsterdam and Brooklyn, that is! ;)

To tell the truth, I find NYC more interesting, and with much more to offer visitors, than any European city.

Its major disadvantage is the sky-high prices of hotels in Manhattan (and, of course, for me, the need to spend an obscene number of hours in an aluminum tube to get there).

Still, despite being born in Brooklyn, having spent the first 18 years of my life there, and having lived only a few hours away until I was 34, I would find it easier to fill a week seeing things that are new for me in NYC than I would anywhere in Europe.

I have a conflict: Amsterdam or Brooklyn? Sooooooo hard to decide!

:p

Tokyo!

But, hey, if it is the Dutch thing one way or the other, you get the best of both worlds in Breukelen dba Brooklyn. :)

Mike

obscene number of hours in an aluminum tube

:eek: deserves a suspension from FT.

or perhaps you can get there on a 787.

:rolleyes:

Bonus trivia question. Who knows why the BRT departs from this location (oldtimers on the tour can't answer). New riders... feel free to cheat by PM'ing the oldtimers. ;) :p
The prize is a BRT black baseball cap.

Hint: the answer can be found by PM'ing the guy who insisted on stopping at a Starbucks in Brooklyn.



Mike



2003...mjm insisting on a Starbucks break. After I stopped laughing at him for thinking that Brooklyn would even have a Starbucks... we found one.


This is an easy giveaway. Do I really have to spell it out for you? Don't you want a collectible BRT baseball cap? :cool:

The tour is sold out again. :p

dh

Hint:

There is one other person who knows....

Cellist Uric Hush

This is an easy giveaway. Do I really have to spell it out for you? Don't you want a collectible BRT baseball cap? :cool:

The tour is sold out again. :p

dh

The answer is obviously "because Dan says so" :p;)

Bonus trivia question. Who knows why the BRT departs from this location (oldtimers on the tour can't answer). New riders... feel free to cheat by PM'ing the oldtimers. ;) :p
The prize is a BRT black baseball cap.


Over the years, riders on BRT have always posted questions about where we depart from and the time. I promise you those questions will come. ;)
Knowing that most participants of the tour aren't following this thread :eek: let me make this offer:

The first person to respond to this post that doesn't have a black BRT baseball cap, will receive one. If you already have a cap, or lost one, too bad. :p

Over the years, riders on BRT have always posted questions about where we depart from and the time. I promise you those questions will come. ;)
Knowing that most participants of the tour aren't following this thread :eek: let me make this offer:

The first person to respond to this post that doesn't have a black BRT baseball cap, will receive one. If you already have a cap, or lost one, too bad. :p

I don't have one, but then again, I have never liked wearing ballcaps, so please pass me over. ;)

The first person to respond to this post that doesn't have a black BRT baseball cap, will receive one. If you already have a cap, or lost one, too bad. :p

Me! Me! Me! :rolleyes:

...Knowing that most participants of the tour aren't following this thread :eek: ... :eek: :eek: :eek: Never fails. :p

(I already have a hat, so I'm out. I wonder if anyone else remembers the "interesting" comment we received at L&B the year Dan first had hats for the BRT riders? :p )

Bah! My June 1 meeting in Philly just got bumped over to NYC. If two spots happen to open up.. (DW is coming up with me) let me know? :D

I have a conflict: Amsterdam or Brooklyn? Sooooooo hard to decide!


Since belle3388 was the first to post.... she gets the cap. :p

I don't have one, but then again, I have never liked wearing ballcaps, so please pass me over. ;)

Very nice gesture. ^ Consider yourself passovered. :p

Me! Me! Me! :rolleyes:

By process of elimination, you're stuck with this cap no matter how many times you :rolleyes: :p

dh

I'm getting ready to book my bus ticket and trying to decide what time Sunday afternoon to head home. Do people meet up for lunch on Sunday or is everyone resting for Wine DO? There's a 1pm bus and a 3pm bus back home

Very nice gesture. ^ Consider yourself passovered. :p


If he's hanging out with us, he'll have to be pesached.

If he's hanging out with us, he'll have to be pesached.

Dayenu!

he'll have to be pesached.

Dayenu!


(?gnikaeps era elpoep uoy egaugnal ynnuf taht s'tahW)

(?gnikaeps era elpoep uoy egaugnal ynnuf taht s'tahW)

Chaver, if this was in עברית, I might be able to understand it. ;)

Translation, My friend, if this was written in Hebrew, I might be able to understand it. Something about the head. :p

Since we're "returning to our roots" (as Da Hammer* put it) with a 25-pax van, is there any chance of returning to our favorite dinner restaurant, Fiorentino's?

Sure. Why not. Dinner at Fiorentinos around 4:30. If anyone not on the tour wants to join us, please PM me. We'll be eating off their regular menu. Everyone pays their share. If you have a salad, pasta, and a coke, that's what you'll pay for. If you order expensive, you'll pay for what you order. This way nobody pays an unfair amount. A few years back, someone ordered a bottle of wine. Ask Joe our waiter (he's still there) for a separate check please. Add 30% for tax + tip.
Please note, Fiorentinos is a red check tablecloth type of place. Please order the standards. Several years ago, someone ordered osso bucco. This ain't that type of place. ;)
I'd also pass on a Greek salad. ;) :p :D Please don't complain if your out of the ordinary dish wasn't up to par. Bring cash.
Since we're ordering off the regular menu, expect to pay anywhere from $20 up. I'd say $30 - $35 is more realistic.




Date: June 2, 2012
Time: 9:30, with pushback at 10:00.

Theme: Returning to our roots with a 25 passenger van.


We have a tradition of departing ontime. ;)


...we went for dinner at an authentic Italian place in an authentic Italian neighborhood. Lots of jewelry showing. This may or may not happen this year. All depends on the number of attendees.


The lunch/dinner will be open to everyone. If you're not on the Tour, you'll have to take the subway to the restaurant. It's about 40 minutes and $2.25 one way.


2003...mjm insisting on a Starbucks break. After I stopped laughing at him for thinking that Brooklyn would even have a Starbucks... we found one.

2007... When cawhites 'friend' Larry (the guy who always sits at the bar), checked us out!


We rotate seats on the bus.


We will stop at the now legendary mjm Starbucks.

Maybe we'll see cawhites friend Larry. ^

Mary2e, plan on visiting your Brooklyn family sometime on Saturday June 2. The plan: L&B for lunch. ETA 12:30 - 1:00. http://www.spumonigardens.com/home.html


Don't hold me to the time mary2e and anyone else that may drop in. You can PM me for my cell if you want an update.

~what time will dinner be?


~4:30. In the olden days of Brooklyn, my Italian friends always had their big Sunday meal in the late afternoon.

I'll say it just so no one else says it:

If you ever attend one of the Alaska DOs, you'll notice I don't run my ship nearly as tightly as dhammer53.

Thanks. :o :D

Another year without Larry?
Fiorentinos is part of BRT12's Nostalgia theme. ;)
You may owe me bigtime.

Counting down until BRT 12 in 25 days! http://itsalmo.st/#brt12

The clock is still wrong, so you better be on time. ;)



I will PM my cell phone number to anyone that requests it. If you're running late, you'll need it.



I wonder if anyone else remembers the "interesting" comment we received at L&B the year Dan first had hats for the BRT riders? :p )

Do tell.

After dinner, the plan is to head to the trendy Williamsburgh neighborhood. Bedford Ave is the main street. This neighborhood looks like Greenwich Village in the 1970's. For those that remember, or those of you youngins that want to see what it was like, you'll have a good time here. Time permitting, there's a nice park overlooking Manhattan that we stopped at in the past. You can end the tour here (take the L train back to Manhattan) from Bedford Ave, or come back to Little Italy for one last bakery stop at http://www.ferraracafe.com/home.php If you're still walking by them, then I haven't done my job. :D

You can depart from Little Italy, or head back uptown to Grand Central where we departed from.

Just in case you don't remember:

Pick up location

Departure at 10:00am from the Grand Central Terminal area. Please arrive between 9:30 - 9:45.

234 East 46 street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue.
===============================================

If you're running late, here's directions to our first stop in Brooklyn. Here's the information now, just in case.

Take the #2 or the #3 train to Clark Street. This is the 7th Ave/Broadway train. It's the first stop in Brooklyn.
When you exit, ask anyone where the Promenade is. It's ~ 7 minute walk.

You can also take the #4 or #5 train (runs under Lexington Ave on the east side) to Borough Hall. That's the first stop in Brooklyn. Ask anyone where the Promenade is.

Dan

canucklehead can't join us.

One seat available. Spread the word.

Sure. Why not. Dinner at Fiorentinos around 4:30. If anyone not on the tour wants to join us, please PM me. We'll be eating off their regular menu. Everyone pays their share. If you have a salad, pasta, and a coke, that's what you'll pay for. If you order expensive, you'll pay for what you order. This way nobody pays an unfair amount. A few years back, someone ordered a bottle of wine. Ask Joe our waiter (he's still there) for a separate check please. Add 30% for tax + tip.
Please note, Fiorentinos is a red check tablecloth type of place. Please order the standards. Several years ago, someone ordered osso bucco. This ain't that type of place. ;)
I'd also pass on a Greek salad. ;) :p :D Please don't complain if your out of the ordinary dish wasn't up to par. Bring cash.
Since we're ordering off the regular menu, expect to pay anywhere from $20 up. I'd say $30 - $35 is more realistic....

^


Yippeeee!!! Back to our roots indeed!

So glad to return to Fiorentino's -- it's great that Joe the waiter is still there -- and, he HAS to be our waiter!!!

Darned, darned, darned....

I would love to go back to Fiorentino's, but I may not be able to make it for dinner. I have been so busy on the weekends for the past month, and it doesn't seem to be letting up, that I may need to stay home and actually get something done. Getting to the restaurant for an early dinner puts a big kink in my day :mad: :mad:

So, I will try, and will call you Dan in advance as possible, if I can get there.

Darned, darned, darned....

I would love to go back to Fiorentino's, but I may not be able to make it for dinner. I have been so busy on the weekends for the past month, and it doesn't seem to be letting up, that I may need to stay home and actually get something done. Getting to the restaurant for an early dinner puts a big kink in my day :mad: :mad:

So, I will try, and will call you Dan in advance as possible, if I can get there.

Hey for perspective think how I feel. It is all relative. :)

Darned, darned, darned.....

Mary, you do not have to make excuses...there is no way that I am going to make it to the BRT this year.

I'm getting ready to book my bus ticket and trying to decide what time Sunday afternoon to head home. Do people meet up for lunch on Sunday or is everyone resting for Wine DO? There's a 1pm bus and a 3pm bus back home

Bus:confused:

Are you crawling into a tube with a Charles Atlas globe and the word "Uncontinent" on the side or have you decided to upgrade to a multi-wheeled, scenic coach back home?

Just in case you don't remember:

Pick up location

Departure at 10:00am from the Grand Central Terminal area. Please arrive between 9:30 - 9:45.

234 East 46 street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenue.
===============================================

If you're running late, here's directions to our first stop in Brooklyn. Here's the information now, just in case.

Take the #2 or the #3 train to Clark Street. This is the 7th Ave/Broadway train. It's the first stop in Brooklyn.
When you exit, ask anyone where the Promenade is. It's ~ 7 minute walk.

You can also take the #4 or #5 train (runs under Lexington Ave on the east side) to Borough Hall. That's the first stop in Brooklyn. Ask anyone where the Promenade is.



As if any of the riders on BRT 12 need reminding. ;)
In spite of my constant badgering, I'm really a nice guy. :o

Did you know Woody Allen is from Brooklyn?
Did you know Mel Brooks is from Brooklyn?

Lauren Bacall. Dave Barry. Bugs Bunny. :eek: All Brooklynites.

The French Connection was filmed in Brooklyn, not far from Fiorentinos.

More of these facts on the tour.

One last thing. Every year I suggest to people that they order the Sicilian (square) slice at L&B, vs the Neapolitan (round). There's just something about the crunch of the square slice. It's extraordinary. The round slice is not the reason I stop here. It's all about the Sicilian. :o
When most people think of a slice, they think lots of cheese. That use to be a big deal. As a kid, we would pay extra to get extra cheese on our slice. At L&B, they make their square differently. They hide the cheese under the sauce, instead of the other way around. You can watch them make it in the back.

Speaking of spumoni, read this. Some Brooklynites come to L&B for the spumoni. IMHO, it's an acquired taste. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spumoni I do prefer their ices; or as we say in Brooklyn, Italian ices. Non New Yorkers say icee. :rolleyes:

If any of you want my cell for Saturday morning, now's the time to ask for it.
Disclaimer, I've been told that the area is a dead zone; so the possibilty exists that I may not get your call. I know this isn't a problem, since everyone will be ontime. ;)

Dan

Just think, exactly one week from right now we'll be on the bus NOT TALKING WHILE DAN IS TALKING :D

Just think, exactly one week from right now we'll be on the bus NOT TALKING WHILE DAN IS TALKING :D

And hopefully by this time next week, my cellphone will have changed from Mountain Time to Eastern Time. I guess I will bug Dan for his phone number in the event of unforeseen technical difficulties on my part. :D

And I'm thankful that it's nice enough to be exercising outdoors in my neck of the woods now because I have a feeling I need to burn some calories this week to make room for some new and awesome Brooklyn calories next week :cool:

Just think, exactly one week from right now we'll be on the bus NOT TALKING WHILE DAN IS TALKING :D

Can we have the BRT drinking game?? :p Dan I'm in for dinner along with a +1 who you've met.
Cheers
Howie

Just think, exactly one week from right now we'll be on the bus NOT TALKING WHILE DAN IS TALKING :D

Nice to know some of the past BRT riders were paying attention. :eek:

And hopefully by this time next week, my cellphone will have changed from Mountain Time to Eastern Time. I guess I will bug Dan for his phone number in the event of unforeseen technical difficulties on my part. :D

We'll have to communicate by keyboard. ;)

Can we have the BRT drinking game?? :p Dan I'm in for dinner along with a +1 who you've met.


stockmanjr, BRT has never been know for this. Jackie Mason (google him if you don't know who he is) always kidded that Jews eat, and our Irish friends drink.

1A, please.

1A, please.

Seating requests are at the discretion of the Gate Agent (and you know how he feels about UA GS members). :D

As the Soup Nazi on Seinfeld would say, E- for you. :p

E- for you.


http://boringpittsburgh.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/pat-bus-seat-11.jpg

Bus:confused:

Are you crawling into a tube with a Charles Atlas globe and the word "Uncontinent" on the side or have you decided to upgrade to a multi-wheeled, scenic coach back home?

Yep Bus, You all will be proud though as $100 in shot bus rides earned me this free round trip bus ride valued at $90. Kind of like WN RR 1.0.

I blew a lot of money on this quick holiday to HKG that i'm on now, so I have to cut corners for NYC.

An interesting location in Brooklyn, possibly for BRT13?

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/28/nyregion/on-dennet-place-in-brooklyn-a-tight-knit-community.html

On an Inconspicuous Brooklyn Block, a Curious Nickname and Hobbit Doors

Outsiders call it the street with little doors. That is, if they know it at all, because Dennet Place, a tiny lane near the Gowanus Canal in Brooklyn, is something of a secret. It can evade GPS, and even some people who have lived nearby for years have never heard of it.

Those who do pass by wonder about the doors. Dennet houses have miniature street-level entrances, more appropriate for hobbits than humans. Some lead into basements, others into kitchens or the bedroom and bath sections of a home. Residents crouch in and out of the doors as if it were the most natural thing in the world....

my seat is available. please pm me if you are interested

Have you notified Dan?

He maintains a waitlist for cancelled seats.

deleted

Yup. it was he who recommended that i post here. Thanks.



my seat is available. please pm me if you are interested

Dan is already aware of this, but suggested I post to the thread: I will be flying out to Denver on Saturday morning so I won't be riding along on this year's BRT (someone please have a few slices of pizza for me, a black & white, and some gnocchi at Fiorentinos!). Hopefully this will allow someone to join along or bring their +1.

Yay it's tomorrow! :D Weather looks pretty decent too, a little rain in the morning but cool.

Yay it's tomorrow!

:confused:

One of us is going to be disappointed.

Weather in the NY area has been inconsistent the past 10+ days. As a matter of fact, the only thing about the inconsistency has been the consistency. :eek: A possible attribute to Yogi Berra. :o

All week, the weatherman has been promising rain late Friday into Saturday morning. :mad:

Take a look... http://www.weather.com/weather/weekend/Brooklyn+NY+11234:4:US

30% chance of rain. The pick up area isn't covered. You may want to bring an umbrella.

Our first stop The Promenade is outside. http://www.nyharborparks.org/visit/brhe.html and a better photo here... http://nymag.com/listings/attraction/brooklyn_heights_promenade/

I modified the trip several years ago and it didn't work out. It wasn't a problem since nobody else knew. :p

Possible rain option... http://www.brooklynmuseum.org/
Another no rain option this year is an optional visit to The Cyclone. http://www.coneyislandfunguide.com/Attraction/The-Cyclone-Rollercoaster.htm

As mentioned above, there are now 2 seats available. If you know anyone that's interested, I'm sure gipsss and cawhite would like to get their $60 back. If I can't find a replacement, I may invite a guest. A friend of mine is a licensed tour guide in Manhattan. :cool:

Dan

Yay it's tomorrow!



One of us is going to be disappointed.

SFOTerry, there may be a third seat available. ;)

:confused:

One of us is going to be disappointed.

Not me! Because not only am I (apparently) now operating on whatever time zone is at at least 12:01 AM, I'm counting the Friday night Soup DO as part of BRT so my position is both unimpeachable and unassailable. :D:p

Just flew in from ORD. My BRT weekend has started.

And was a beautiful day it is in Manhattan!

See some of you tomorrow night!

It's after midnight in New York. I'll see you tomorrow. ^

40% chance of rain until 12 noon.

My best wishes to all those attending!!

The good news is since I'm not there, no fight over 1A :p :D

Cheers.

My best wishes to all those attending!!

The good news is since I'm not there, no fight over 1A :p :D

Cheers.

Trust me, there wouldn't be a fight for it. ;)

Got my BPs next to me for my flights from FAY-ATL-EWR. Going to be leaving the office shortly to make the 90 minute drive down to Fayetteville. Can't wait for soup tonight and all the fun tomorrow!

The good news is since I'm not there, no fight over 1A :p :D



Trust me, there wouldn't be a fight for it. ;)

Trust me, you're right. :p :D

The weatherman says 30% chance of rain through early afternoon, in the form of isolated thunder storms.

tomorrow!

don't you mean today? :D

don't you mean today? :D

Oh you're good!

Meanwhile, I'm at ATL halfway to New York! At least, that's one way to look at it, haha. They annouced my flight to EWR is boarding but I wanted to take the time to update the thread AND have a Sweetwater 420 on tap at the Skyclub first :D

For any last minute folks that want to join us, or if anyone has a question, please include your phone number when you send me a PM. I'll have limited time to logon between now and Saturday morning.

A few riders have dropped out. Someone else is now a +1. <They thought they were already a +1. :eek: ;)

This process started out clean and neat. Very organized; but with all the last minute deletions and additions, I hope there's still room to keep 1B empty. ;) :p

Weather is low 70's and low humidity. Still a 30% chance of boomers.

Current ground stops in DCA/IAD/BWI. Potential delays in the NY area later.

Yes I'm Crashing the party. See you at L&B tomorrow.

Yes I'm Crashing the party. See you at L&B tomorrow.

Don't forget to bring your CuP. ;)

Inbound flight is early, hopefully we will be too.

It is 10:08 and we are on our way. We started off a little late and we will all be compensated for this late departure.

Dan is talking now and the mike is working this year, so no chance of ignoring him.

Smaller van so it is more intimate. Twenty-one on the bus now and we are picking up three more in Brooklyn.

Dan is starting to give his history lecture so I will end now and return later.

It is 10:08 and we are on our way. We started off a little late and we will all be compensated for this late departure....Sounds to me like the typical pmUA nonsense except that, unbelievable as it may sound, in many cases they really meant it. :rolleyes:

Have a great BRT, all. We will see some of you tomorrow night at North Square. ^

At L&B Spumoni Gardens.

Party crashed! Man I love that slice of pizza.

Lunch is over. Now back on the bus on our way to Brighton Beach (Little Odessa) and Manhattan Beach.

Then about 430 we will be heading to Fiorentino's for dinner. Early dinner because that's the only time they can accomodate a party of 25.

Finally made it to our hotel. :)

Thanks Dan - we had a lot of fun, almost more than we could stand. :p

See you tomorrow.

Mrs JM & I had a great time but had to bail at the beer garden. We had left the furry members of our family at home and they get a bit grumpy after 12 hours.

Dan - What Can I say! Bravo! Good Company, Good Food and Brooklyn = Good Times. Thanks for making this happen.

Some special thanks.
Thanks to the guy Iluv2Fly??? who saved my day by letting me use his laptop so I could put out a fire at work and finally relax.
Thanks also to the person who suggested I take the bus from Williamsburg to Long Island City. We left the "Bier Garten" at 8:00 and were in the car in LIC at 8:19. Perfect
And a special thanks to everyone else who shared great experiences and conversation.
If anyone wants to keep in touch outside of FT and MP. My Email is JosephMay907@gmail.com

Thanks again!
^^^^^

Hats off to Dan - a great day to be in Brooklyn! This was a fun tour. Good group. Good guide!

Fun, fun times. Great company and a great inside look that most of us would never otherwise get at a very interesting corner of the world. Plus, meeting friends new and old is always a highlight of my otherwise often mundane life (which is less mundane these days, though! :D).

See a few of you in about 17 hours. ;)

Dinner last night at Fiorentino's. I had a the Chicken Parmesan and wasn't able to eat it all since the portion was huge for the low price of $12.95.

http://roadwarrior365.smugmug.com/Other/2012-Brooklyn-Reality-Tour/i-LBgZWD2/0/M/DSC0337-M.jpg

http://roadwarrior365.smugmug.com/Other/2012-Brooklyn-Reality-Tour/i-WtwBn7q/0/M/DSC0340-M.jpg

Many thanks for Dan for organizing a delightful day and a pleasure to see you all.

Sorry I had to depart early, but my +1 is appeased and I stayed up into the wee hours figuring about how to pack for a trip that includes summer in the Gulf States, winter in Southern Africa, and a bit of South Asia.

Thanks Dan - we had a lot of fun, almost more than we could stand. :p


I hope that you're call to UA to rescue SFOMo's glasses is successful. This drama we can live without.

It is 10:08 and we are on our way. We started off a little late and we will all be compensated for this late departure.

Dan is talking now and the mike is working this year, so no chance of ignoring him.

Smaller van so it is more intimate. Twenty-one on the bus now and we are picking up three more in Brooklyn.

Dan is starting to give his history lecture so I will end now and return later.

Marty was (we thought) blogging all day. :eek: :p

Dinner last night at Fiorentino's. I had a the Chicken Parmesan and wasn't able to eat it all since the portion was huge for the low price of $12.95.

http://roadwarrior365.smugmug.com/Other/2012-Brooklyn-Reality-Tour/i-LBgZWD2/0/M/DSC0337-M.jpg

http://roadwarrior365.smugmug.com/Other/2012-Brooklyn-Reality-Tour/i-WtwBn7q/0/M/DSC0340-M.jpg

Now I'm hungry. :o Look at the size of that meal. :eek: Now people will believe me when I say (in the OP), that you get twice the portion at half the price vs eating in Manhattan. @:-)

I'd like to thank roadwarrior365 for buying a BRT baseball cap for $40. You can see him the in front row proudly wear his cap. He had the pleasure of sitting between me and dailycavalier.
That money, plus some other additional donations (close to $100) will bring the BRT12 donation to the Capt Jason Dahl Fund to the mid $600 range.

Maybe we'll see cawhites friend Larry.



cawhite, I don't mean to tease, but Larry was there, looking dapper as usual. :cool:

Man, that was fun. :D

Thanks again to dhammer53 for putting together an awesome time that somehow managed to top last year's. :cool:

Great to see old friends and make some new ones. ^

Dan, here's a head start on your research for next year: ;)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manhattan_Bridge

Past tour highlights include:

2001...poor AnnaS having a cold.
2002...Lisamcgu making us stop for White castle hamburgers.
2003...mjm insisting on a Starbucks break. After I stopped laughing at him for thinking that Brooklyn would even have a Starbucks... we found one.
2004...gorging on food at marysunshine's house...and this was a snack!
2005...cawhite knocking on the door of my childhood home; while I ducked for cover. It was a priceless moment. Details towards the last page of the 2005 thread. Also, a Tony Soprano type sitting at the bar added some extra flavor to our experience.
2006...Our van squeezing past a doubleparked car on a side street. You can just imagine the typical Brooklyn swearing. Also, the tour getting its 15 minutes of fame on Cable television News 12 Brooklyn. Check it out http://news12.com/BK/topstories/article?id=175940# use name: dhammer53ft, password: flyertalk (may not work).
2007... When cawhites 'friend' Larry (the guy who always sits at the bar), checked us out!
2008... "I had no intention of stopping at my childhood home. As we approached, I told the driver to slow down, then stop. Seems the front door was wide open. I took this as a sign from above. I stopped the bus.
A couple of years back, cawhite knocked on the door. I ducked for cover. This year I was apprehensive as I approached. When I told the woman that she bought the house from my Mom, she said in typical Brooklyn fashion whats her name? When I responded, she had a big smile for me.
This may have been the moment on BRT 8. Every year, there's always one moment that's noteworthy".

2009... We were filmed throughout the day for a documentary. Maybe it'll even come out one of these days.
2011... the bus went MX (mechanical). 90 minute delay. :rolleyes:



Every year, there's always a memorable moment on the tour (read above).
This year, besides re-visiting 2002, 2003, 2005, and 2008, I'm able to add something new.

Backstory. Teena, from Teenas Bakery isn't exactly know for being customer friendly. :rolleyes: Locals like my sister can tell you stories. :D

BRT 12 brought 24 customers to the store. Many of them bought black and white cookies (famous in New York City), rugelah, and lots of other assorted delicious bakery goodies. I think all she had available for sale was 6 black and whites. That wasn't enough for this crowd. :D After we were finished, we were hanging around outside enjoying our purchase. Teena comes running out yelling, DAN. I turn around and she tells me that next year I should call in advance and warn her that we're coming, so she can have enough black and whites ready. ^ :D :D

The last 5 remaining riders on the bus (from Little Italy back to 46th street) were all in agreement. This was the moment of BRT 12. Their names will be kept secret to protect their innocence. :p

Dan, here's a head start on your research for next year: ;)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manhattan_Bridge

FortFun, you can speak about this on the next tour BRT 14.
Announcement, there will not be a BRT 13. ;)

...she tells me that next year I should call in advance and warn her that we're coming, so she can have enough black and whites ready. ^ :D :D...^ Already an absolute classic that definitely belongs right up there among the memorable moments.

FortFun, you can speak about this on the next tour BRT 14.
Announcement, there will not be a BRT 13. ;)

Dont tell me you are superstitious!

:p

FortFun, you can speak about this on the next tour BRT 14.
Announcement, there will not be a BRT 13. ;) Dont tell me you are superstitious!

:pEither that or Dan meant ixnay on BRT 2013 ... :eek:

Ah what a time what a time! Great meeting everyone and making new friends and of course seeing old friends again. I'll have my pictures up tomorrow (I do that from work so I can get paid for the privilege). As I told Dan that evening, everything went flawlessly. Great food, company, history and we only got stuck in traffic once!

Can't wait for next year. I even managed to save my last two rugelah and I presented them to my Mother. She said they were just like her Mother used to make...is there a better compliment?

I even managed to save my last two rugelah and I presented them to my Mother. She said they were just like her Mother used to make...is there a better compliment?There is not one that is even close. :)

Since I go to that area of Brooklyn fairly frequently, perhaps I should just take orders for Teena's and then ship them out :D :D :D

Since I go to that area of Brooklyn fairly frequently, perhaps I should just take orders for Teena's and then ship them out :D :D :D

Will they still be fresh by the time they arrive here?

Maybe if I vacuum seal them :D

Maybe if I vacuum seal them :D

Please do. Do not worry if Teena does not have Coke in cups above 16 ounces. I can get larger bottles here. :D

As promised here are a few pictures and a link to my album. If anyone would like to add me on Facebook for the purposes of being tagged, just PM me and I'll send you my info.

http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/i-9NbtPrr/0/L/1009677-L.jpg (http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/23358539_NLRfMp#!i=1885971034&k=9NbtPrr&lb=1&s=A)

A patented Brooklyn Fact (TM) from Dan

http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/i-7k32W4r/0/L/1009687-L.jpg (http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/23358539_NLRfMp#!i=1885974629&k=7k32W4r&lb=1&s=A)

I made it official on the beach

http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/i-BQpKw3H/0/L/1009693-L.jpg (http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/23358539_NLRfMp#!i=1885975779&k=BQpKw3H&lb=1&s=A)

http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/i-65tPk2x/0/L/1009732-L.jpg (http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/23358539_NLRfMp#!i=1885965839&k=65tPk2x&lb=1&s=A)

My personal favorite photo, at the unofficial BRT afterparty.

All photos:

http://cmk10.smugmug.com/Travel/Soup-DO-and-BRT-12/

...That money, plus some other additional donations (close to $100) will bring the BRT12 donation to the Capt Jason Dahl Fund to the mid $600 range. ^^^^^^

cawhite, I don't mean to tease, but Larry was there, looking dapper as usual. :cool: :eek: :blush:
I need to make a trip back soon and it WILL include a Saturday dinner at Fiorentinos.

Every year, there's always a memorable moment on the tour (read above)...Backstory. Teena, from Teenas Bakery isn't exactly know for being customer friendly. :rolleyes: Locals like my sister can tell you stories. :D

BRT 12 brought 24 customers to the store. Many of them bought black and white cookies (famous in New York City), rugelah, and lots of other assorted delicious bakery goodies. I think all she had available for sale was 6 black and whites. That wasn't enough for this crowd. :D After we were finished, we were hanging around outside enjoying our purchase. Teena comes running out yelling, DAN. I turn around and she tells me that next year I should call in advance and warn her that we're coming, so she can have enough black and whites ready. ^ :D :D ... Sounds like the year you warned her, someone also called ahead to place a separate order for 36 b&w's, and she still complained that we didn't buy enough. :p

Thanks to Dan and the rest of the BRT 12 gang for a thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying day!

I am extremely glad that I had not yet dined at the "Nathan's Famous" that have sprung up in Alberta in the past year and that I was able to down my first Nathan's Hot Dog at the original location on Coney Island! And what a delicious dog it is! :)

And then the pizza at L&B's, mamma mia, that was good!

At Fiorentino's, I was able to double indulge. After I finished my meal of Linguini with broccoli, I was able to dine on some Chicken Parmesana thanks to CMK10 and FortFun, and it was all molto bene! ^

Even the Starbucks stop was great for me. The cashier's till froze when she tried to process my iced coffee order so I got my drink comped :D

So So SOOOO much food and I haven't even included the pastry stops into my post yet lol. Dining on my first Black and White cookie was a real treat, so I can now cross that Seinfeld-ism off my list now!

Dan, I should have done this Do years ago, so thanks a tonne for an amazing day... although our waistlines may not be so thankful :D

Such a fantastic experience and a fun group!

dhammer53, thanks so much for organizing and being our local tour guide for the day. Especially loved your colorful commentary on New York neighborhoods and history. ^^ And I was impressed with how smoothly everything ran. While I appreciate the 'moment' of BRT 12, it wasn't bad at all ;)

Enjoyed meeting everyone and sitting next to several people on the BRT shuttle. Fun to match CMK10, jackal, iluv2fly, SFOTerry. Was also great to meet some people for the first time - roadwarrior365, pfbloom, CDKing, YEGcited, and Robin. I'm sure I'm leaving out a few handles that I can't remember.

Definitely came away with a greater love of Brooklyn and New York in general. I'd very much like to return for another BRT.

And then food? Whoa! Saturday was a nonstop eating fest. And yumm!

Great to meet you, too!

And then food? Whoa! Saturday was a nonstop eating fest. And yumm!

No kidding. I'm still full.

Great to meet you, too!



No kidding. I'm still full.

Yes, but you went to the "leftovers" party on Sunday. :o

Great meeting everyone as well. Had a great time.

Fun, fun times. Great company and a great inside look that most of us would never otherwise get at a very interesting corner of the world. Plus, meeting friends new and old is always a highlight of my otherwise often mundane life (which is less mundane these days, though!

Man, that was fun. :D

Thanks again to dhammer53 for putting together an awesome time that somehow managed to top last year's. :cool:



As I told Dan that evening, everything went flawlessly. Great food, company, history and we only got stuck in traffic once!

Can't wait for next year. I even managed to save my last two rugelah and I presented them to my Mother. She said they were just like her Mother used to make...is there a better compliment?

Thanks to Dan and the rest of the BRT 12 gang for a thoroughly enjoyable and satisfying day!

I am extremely glad that I had not yet dined at the "Nathan's Famous" that have sprung up in Alberta in the past year and that I was able to down my first Nathan's Hot Dog at the original location on Coney Island! And what a delicious dog it is! :)

And then the pizza at L&B's, mamma mia, that was good!

At Fiorentino's, I was able to double indulge. After I finished my meal of Linguini with broccoli, I was able to dine on some Chicken Parmesana thanks to CMK10 and FortFun, and it was all molto bene! ^

Even the Starbucks stop was great for me. The cashier's till froze when she tried to process my iced coffee order so I got my drink comped :D

So So SOOOO much food and I haven't even included the pastry stops into my post yet lol. Dining on my first Black and White cookie was a real treat, so I can now cross that Seinfeld-ism off my list now!

Dan, I should have done this Do years ago, so thanks a tonne for an amazing day... although our waistlines may not be so thankful :D

Such a fantastic experience and a fun group!

dhammer53, thanks so much for organizing and being our local tour guide for the day. Especially loved your colorful commentary on New York neighborhoods and history. ^^ And I was impressed with how smoothly everything ran. While I appreciate the 'moment' of BRT 12, it wasn't bad at all ;)

Enjoyed meeting everyone and sitting next to several people on the BRT shuttle. Fun to match CMK10, jackal, iluv2fly, SFOTerry. Was also great to meet some people for the first time - roadwarrior365, pfbloom, CDKing, YEGcited, and Robin. I'm sure I'm leaving out a few handles that I can't remember.

Definitely came away with a greater love of Brooklyn and New York in general. I'd very much like to return for another BRT.

And then food? Whoa! Saturday was a nonstop eating fest. And yumm!

Thanks everyone. I promised that we eat, tour, eat, tour... and eat again. I deliver what I promise. As a matter of fact, I just finished off my last rugelah from Teena's. Those suckers freeze well.

The overall theme about BRT (besides eating and touring) is that everyone has a good time. As iluv2fly said best tour ever. Brooklyn translation is best tour evah. :D

So, is the date set for 2013 yet? :p

So, is the date set for 2013 yet? :p

If you can't wait, you might be able to find a Non-Denominational Kosher Hannuka Do in NYC on Dec 11 to tide you over.

If you can't wait, you might be able to find a Non-Denominational Kosher Hannuka Do in NYC on Dec 11 to tide you over.

;)

I might be able to go if your Do were on a weekend (and if I could find a reasonable fare to NYC).

But I will have work commitments during the weekdays for the next several months.

So is there a date already for this next year? Sorry but the thought of reading through hundreds of posts to find out well. . .for those who know me - DETAILS. . .not my forte :D

Coincidentally that was a subject of discussion today in Cincinnati when serfty told me that he had scheduled an MR to NYC for the weekend of June 8-10 in the hopes that he had guessed the correct dates for the BRT and, just as importantly, the FT Wine Dinner.

I thought Sandy wiped Brooklyn off the map. :confused:

So, is the date set for 2013 yet? :p

What's the rush? BRT doesn't need an entire year like some other DO's. :o The last tour posted in January.

I'm said it before, so it's worth saying again. I have a meeting in June. The date hasn't been announced. When I find out, you'll find out. Not to worry KathyWdrf, your seat is secure. ;)

So is there a date already for this next year? Sorry but the thought of reading through hundreds of posts to find out well. . .for those who know me - DETAILS. . .not my forte :D

We know. :D

Coincidentally that was a subject of discussion today in Cincinnati when serfty told me that he had scheduled an MR to NYC for the weekend of June 8-10 in the hopes that he had guessed the correct dates for the BRT and, just as importantly, the FT Wine Dinner.

No pressure.

I thought Sandy wiped Brooklyn off the map. :confused:

Ok. Now for a serious answer to a serious question. Most of the Hurricane Sandy damage was done to Coney Island and Sheepshead Bay, which have been stops on BRT. Many retailers are closed, including Nathan's (home of the hotdog eating contest), and Randazzo's (great steamers). Hopefully they'll be up and running soon. The other neighborhood affected was Red Hook. That's where the Queen Elizabeth sails from. This neighborhood is adjacent to 7th Ave in Park Slope. That's where we make a Starbucks stop.

BRT 14 will take place in June 2013. And no, that's not a misprint. :D

SoupDo will take place the evening before.
WineDo 6 will take place Sunday evening.

Come hungry and thirsty.

dh

Let me be the first to say THANK YOU DH for doing this again! and again and. . .:D

What's the rush? BRT doesn't need an entire year like some other DO's. :o The last tour posted in January.

Coincidentally that was a subject of discussion today in Cincinnati when serfty told me that he had scheduled an MR to NYC for the weekend of June 8-10 in the hopes that he had guessed the correct dates for the BRT and, just as importantly, the FT Wine Dinner.

No pressure.


BRT 14 will take place in June 2013. And no, that's not a misprint. :D

SoupDo will take place the evening before.
WineDo 6 will take place Sunday evening.

Come hungry and thirsty.

dh

I am another waiting as well; I had a quick chat to serfty on Tuesday night and he asked if I had looked at any flights to the US in June, I am waiting for the dates to be confirmed before I start booking flights.

I had to schedule a doctors appointment a few weeks back for June and I had to think what was the best day to avoid it clashing with the BRT 2013 weekend. @:-)

No pressure from me. :rolleyes:

I had to schedule a doctors appointment a few weeks back for June and I had to think what was the best day to avoid it clashing with the BRT 2013 weekend. @:-)

No pressure from me. :rolleyes:

All of my PM's over the years regarding dates have been from OZ and NZ. :p

In recent years, BRT has taken place the first or second Saturday in June. Make your appoint for the 3rd, 4th, or 5th Saturday. ;)

All of my PM's over the years regarding dates have been from OZ and NZ. :p ...:LOL:

Well, June is an Interesting time for antipodean Frequent Flyers as fares skyrocket and award inventory diminishes. (June is the start of our Winter peak when many head to northern parts of the globe to bask in your version of Summer).

For example, when Qantas have a sale on economy Fares in May to the USA start from around $1400, in June? Try $2250 - for the same seats.

That's why we like to pin down our premium award travel early to avoid paying these almost usury fares.;)

Dan, one observation.

If they are in attendance, for at least one segment of the BRT try to put serfty and Bundy Bear in a front row so that you can hear any conversation that they might have. @:-)

If you understand any of it, let me know since I need to tell the guys Downunder that not only are you a great host, you are at least partly "Strine." :D

If they are in attendance, for at least one segment of the BRT try to put serfty and Bundy Bear in a front row so that you can hear any conversation that they might have. @:-)

If you understand any of it, let me know since I need to tell the guys Downunder that not only are you a great host, you are at least partly "Strine." :D

I don't know what they're talking about, and I didn't know what you were talking about either. :D :D Not to mention that no one can understand my Brooklyn accent. :p
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strine

dh

....BRT 14 will take place in June 2013. And no, that's not a misprint. :D....

:eek:

Noooooo.... "13" is a perfectly good number. Besides, if you're superstitious (or just allergic to the number 13), why don't you just skip the year 2013 altogether? :confused:

:eek:

Noooooo.... "13" is a perfectly good number. Besides, if you're superstitious (or just allergic to the number 13), why don't you just skip the year 2013 altogether? :confused:

Maybe BRT 13 will happen in 2014?

I'm starting a new job January 7th. You'd better believe as soon as I know the dates for BRT I'm putting in for a little of the old Paid Time Off! :D