Thanks, a breath and an opening

11/11

The good news is that last night we raised over $12,000 for the boiler.  Bad news is we’ve got $22,000 more to go. But there was so much support there. Jane spoke of our growing partnership, Elise of the support of our neighborhood clergy. Councilmember Brewer of her commitment. The Landmarks Conservancy of their involvement in managing the project. Democrat District Leader Cynthia Doty of our leadership in the Interfaith Assembly and work with the homelss people of the city. Peter Selwen, author of an architectural history of the neighborhood, and a constant friend throughout this project, of the creativity needed to keep going. Urban journalist and author Roberta Gratz of the reality of how long a project can take, sharing her experience with the Eldridge Street Synagogue. And person after person standing up to pledge. So, we pause to give thanks, take a breath, and then....

Chris the boiler man has been by. We’ve got to get the room cleaned out, ready for the work to begin next week. We’ve also got logistical problems with the temporary heater.  


A long phone call with former music director Larry Woodard. He's looking for a space for performances by Opera Ebony and is breath taken to learn we're back in the building and open and living again.  And I recall the performances of Opera Ebony we hosted back in the day. And remembered how they were the place where African-American opera performers could come and be a place whee their musical visions cold be lived out. Would love to have them back again. 


And Ji Young and Miranda are back again. On their way for new shoes for Miranda.

The new gallery exhibit, Frag opens.  Three young artists, Lauren Brick, Max Guy and Benjamin Horns cursted by Vincent Tiley. A disquieting examination of personal and social feelings of isolation and the uncanny...., so says Tiley’s curatorial statement. about the seven visual echibits and looping video in the quiet of the chapel. As is, says Sarah. 

Again, artists and young adults sharing wine, conversation. And again, probably most from Brooklyn. Artists sharing their interest in bringing their own works here.  I give a young conceptual artist the whole tour. Her eyes grow wide with excitement as she imagines what she could do. 

Our own members Berik and Leila are developing their own ideas. Their creativity had filled the walls of McAlpin during our centennial weekend and concerts before the Woodshed folks moved in. 

Sarah’s father comes in fresh from a full day and filled with questions about the church, the center, time travel, Jewish origins and...And I think as I listen to the conversations thinking that this is exactly what we’re here for. The conversation will continue.