Rediscovering New York

[EPISODE] Turtle Bay

Join us this week for a journey to Turtle Bay.

My guests will be David Griffin, Founder and CEO of Landmark Branding, and Charles Wenzelberg, Co-Owner of Ess-A-Bagel.

Segment 1

Jeff and David discuss how Turtle Bay got its name and its connection to the Dutch. David explains how Turtle Bay transformed from a pastoral area, how the grid system was put into place and how the area changed into what it is today. Jeff explains how Edgar Allen Poe is connected to Turtle Bay and his feelings about the changing landscape. Jeff and David discuss the Draft Act of 1863, the Draft Riots and events surrounding Turtle Bay during the Civil War. David explains how the landscape of Turtle Bay changed after the Civil War into an “evil place” and then how portions of it went through an early form of gentrification in the early 20th century.

Segment 2

David explains what Goat Hill is and how it was replaced by Tudor City. Jeff and David discuss Beekman Place, its history and various historical landmarks in the area. David explains the architecture of the  Beekman House and the history of the Beekman Tower. Jeff and David discuss the United Nations headquarters and what stood there in Turtle Bay before it.

Segment 3

Charles explains what led his family to take an interest in bagels. Jeff questions Charles about the secret to a great New York bagel. Charles talks about what kept him and his family in the bagel business and how the commitment from the family has kept them in business. Charles talks about his Turtle Bay location clientele and how it’s changed over the years.

Segment 4

Charles talks about how customers can get bagels delivered. He talks about how the Turtle Bay neighborhood has changed since the store opened there. Charles talks about how the different vibes of people from around the city mix in Turtle Bay and how he gets a lot of foreigners into Ess-A-Bagel.  He discusses how he thinks the neighborhood has evolved and his company’s desire to not expand too much and remain a small business.

[EPISODE] DUMBO and Vinegar Hill

This week’s journey will be to DUMBO and Vinegar Hill, along the Brooklyn waterfront.

My guests will be historian Kevin Draper of New York Historical Tours, and Tanya Rynd, local artist and co-owner of restaurant and bar Superfine.

Segment 1

Kevin talks about his childhood growing up and coming in to the city from Long Island. He explains what the geography of the city was like pre-settlement and discusses the Native American tribes that lived in the DUMBO area before Dutch settlers arrived. Jeff and Kevin discuss DUMBO’s history and connection with Brooklyn. Kevin explains some of the battles of the American Revolution and how they connect to DUMBO.

Segment 2

Kevin explains how Vinegar Hill got its name from an Irish battle. Jeff and Kevin discuss the Erie Canal and how it affected commerce in New York and Brooklyn. They discuss Robert Gair and his impact on real estate in DUMBO , including the Clock Tower Condominium. Kevin explains how the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge helped to expand DUMBO and the surrounding neighborhoods. Kevin discusses how the area of DUMBO declined but eventually was rebirthed as what it is now, including how it got its name and becoming a historic district.

Segment 3

Tanya talks about how her art brought her to New York and how she was introduced to DUMBO. She talks about DUMBO being an artists place and meeting her business partners in the area. Tanya describes monthly supper clubs her and her partners would have that became the business model for Superfine and how it was born from a need for artists to connect. She talks about the Bridges Bar and its connection to the early Superfine.

Segment 4

Tanya talks about Superfine’s dedication to interacting with the public and how she’s excited to go to work everyday. She describes what her customers are like and the difference between the day and night crowds.  Tanya talks about how she’s seen DUMBO change and what she loves about the area now. She explains what she thinks makes the neighborhood unique, including St. Ann’s Theatre.

[EPISODE] Tribeca

Journey with me this week to Tribeca!

My guests will be Rediscovering New York regular guest contributor Joyce Gold, of Joyce Gold History Tours, and David Steingard, CEO of Laughing Man Coffee and Tea.

Segment 1

Joyce explains how she got into the business of giving tours around New York City.  Joyce explains how the name Tribeca came to be and what it means. Jeff and Joyce discuss the beginnings of Tribeca and Joyce talks about the Native American tribes that lived in the area. They discuss St. John’s Chapel and the history of it. Jeff and Joyce discuss the Washington Market as well as Tribeca’s evolution into what the area is now.

Segment 2

Jeff and Joyce talk about St. John Park  and its connection to Port Authority and the Holland Tunnel. They discuss the West Side Highway and its origins in Tribeca. Joyce explains when Tribeca’s industrial businesses began disappearing and where they went to. Joyce talks about her own experience living in Tribeca and her view of the Hudson River. Jeff and Joyce discuss the ways Tribeca was impacted by the September 11 attacks and how the Tribeca Film Festival came into existence.

Segment 3

David explains how his upbringing made him decide to go into the world of business.  He talks about why he switched to law, the work he did with the Brooklyn D.A.’s office and why he switched back to business. David talks about what inspired him to start Laughing Man and his connection to Hugh Jackman.  Jeff and David discuss the area of Tribeca that Laughing Man is located and when the business first started.

Segment 4

David talks about what makes Tribeca unique for him as a place to live and do business.  He discusses his experience with changes in the neighborhood from when he first moved there until now. Jeff and David discuss David’s customer base and what it’s like interacting with them. David talks about some of the struggles in Tribeca and things about the neighborhood that surprises him.

[EPISODE] Yorkville

This week's journey will to Yorkville!

My guests will be returning Rediscovering New York guest historian Lucie Levine, Founder of Archive on Parade, and Jeremy Schaller, President and THIRD generation owner of Schaller & Weber.

Segment 1

Lucie talks about the kinds of work she has done during her career, including helping New Yorkers see the city in a different way. Jeff and Lucie discuss the history of Yorkville and when the area was first settled. They talk about the history of Gracie Mansion and its connection to Alexander Hamilton. Lucie explains what Jones Wood was and its place as a cultural center. Lucie discusses the impact transportation had on diversifying the people coming to Yorkville.

Segment 2

Lucie discusses the sinking of the  General Slocum. She talks about breweries in Yorkville and how they shaped the culture of Yorkville. Jeff and Lucie discuss Yorkville’s dark history. Lucie talks about the architecture in Yorkville and  the German immigrant community living in the area. Jeff and Lucie discuss Andrew Carnegie’s connection to the area and his founding of libraries, the first one built in Yorkville.

Segment 3

Jeremy talks about his history with Yorkville and living in the area. Jeremy discusses his grandfather’s background before he started Schaller & Weber. He talks about his father innovating the family business and his father and grandfather working together. Jeremy discusses why he decided to go into the family business despite having a degree in fashion.

Segment 4

Jeremy discusses challenges he faced when he took over the business. He talks about changes he needed to make to the business, as well as how to attract both new and current customers.  Jeremy gives advice to anyone looking to open up a new business in Yorkville. He talks about expanding the business to other locations in Yorkville.

[EPISODE] St. George, Staten Island

Join us on our first episode exploring a Staten Island neighborhood, St. George. My guests will be David Griffin, Founder and CEO of Landmark Branding, and Doreen Cugno, CEO and Co-Founder of the famous St. George Theatre.

Segment 1

David explains how he became interested in architectural history from an early age. David discusses the Revolutionary War history connected to St. George and how the neighborhood got its name. He talks about how the area developed into a more residential area and the history of the Staten Island Ferry. Talks about the Staten Island ferry and its history Jeff and David discuss prominent places and people that resided on Staten Island.  David explains what architecture in early St. George homes looked like.

Segment 2

Jeff and David talk more about the Staten Island Ferry and the greatness of it as an activity in New York and a way to explore St. George. They talk about the Lighthouse museum and the history of it as a landmark. David explains what Snug Harbour is and how it came to into existence, including its history of legal entanglement. Jeff and David discuss the redevelopment going on now in St. George.

Segment 3

Jeff talks about  the St. George Theatre and how it was saved and  grew as a company. Doreen and Vincent talk about their backgrounds in the arts before opening the St. George Theatre. Jeff and Vincent talk about notable performers  in the theater's history. Doreen explains why she thinks other attempts to reopen the theater didn’t work until she and her mother and sister did it. Vincent discusses different programs that are available at the theater.

Segment 4

Vincent talks about how to connect with the theater and it being nominated for a New York Emmy. Doreen talks about the St. George area changing , including the outlets that are opening there. Doreen talks about what she enjoys about the area and why it is a great area. Vincent talks about what surprises him about the St. George Theatre. Doreen and Vincent  talk about things that they struggle with in St. George.

[EPISODE] New Yorkers and Our Bicycles, Past and Present

Join me for a special episode on New York’s relationship with bicycles and cycling, past and present.

Our guests will be Evan Friss, author of On Bicycles; A 200 Year History of Cycling in New York City, and co-curator of the current exhibition Cycling in the City at the Museum of the City of New York, and Laura Shepard of Bike New York, co-organizer of the TD 5 Boro Bike Tour taking place this Saturday.

Segment 1

Jeff introduces the first guest for the night Evan Friss. Evan talks about his interest in city planning and how that spurred his interest how people move through cities. He explains the sources that he used in researching and writing his book and discusses some of his favorite one in New York  and their historical significance and wonder. Evan explains the history of the design of bicycles and how it has changed over time.

Segment 2

Jeff and Evan talk about the arrival of bicycles to the streets of New York City.  Evan talks about an ordinance in the past that aimed to ban bicycles. He discusses the transition of bicycles from leisure activities to modes of transportation. Evan explains what bicycle row was and the significance of it. Jeff and Evan talk about bicycles role in the women’s suffrage movement.

Segment 3

Jeff and Evan discuss Robert Moses, a highway planner, and his connection to bicycles. They talk about the Depression and how bicycles fared during that time . Evan explains why bicycles are considered the “stepchild of transportation.” Jeff and Evan talk about former Mayor Ed Koch and the change in his outlook on bicycles and how it set off protests from bike advocates.

Segment 4

Jeff introduces the second guest for the night Laura Shepard form Bike New York. Laura explains what Bike New York is and how she got involved with it. Laura explains how the Five Boro Bike Tour got started and the route it takes throughout New York City. She talks about the neighborhoods that people who have been doing the tour for decades have seen change. Laura talks about the expo coming up this week, the types of programs Bike New York does and biking safety for cyclists.

[EPISODE] Union Square

Join us on our latest journey exploring Union Square! My guests will be Kevin Draper, Historian and Tour Director of New York Historical Tours, and Haruko, Photographer, Founder, and Director of Capsule Studio NYC.

Segment 1

Kevin talks about the passion and fascination he had with New York City growing up and how he transformed that into becoming a historian. Jeff and Kevin talk about the misconception of Union Square being named as apart of the Civil War and the actual history of the area.They talk about Union Square’s potter’s field origins. Jeff explains the historic entertainment district surrounding the area.  

Segment 2

Kevin talks about the specializations and information he provides on his tours. Jeff and Kevin discuss the political history of Union Square. Kevin explains what the Lady’s Mile was and how retail stores like Macy’s had their first stores in Union Square. He tells about the areas history of decline in the 60s and how it turned back around from it. Jeff and Kevin discuss the different statues in the square and the significance of them.

Segment 3

Jeff introduces Haruko and she explains how she got involved in photography. Haruko talks about opening  her business in Union Square due to it being an iconic photo district. Haruko explains the vibe of Union Square and what she loves about the area. She talks about how she’s seen the area change during her time there and some of her favorite businesses there. Jeff talks about what he loves about Union Square.

Segment 4

Haruko talks about memorable people she’s worked with and the experiences she’s had with her work. Jeff questions if the neighborhood adds something to Haruko’s shoots. Haruko talks about an experience in Rome following her back to Union Square. She offers advice to anyone looking to open a business in Union Square. Haruko talks about different types of personalities she’s met in Union Square.

[EPISODE] Battery Park City

Join me for a special journey to Battery Park City! My guests will be Rediscovering New York regular guest Joyce Gold, of Joyce Gold History Tours, and Bob Giraldi, longtime film, TV, and commercial art director who now owns and operates restaurants in Lower Manhattan including Gigino at Wagner Park.

Segment 1

Jeff introduces Joyce Gold who does history tours throughout New York City . Joyce talks about how she became interested and involved in taking people onto tours around the city. Jeff and Joyce talk about the difference between Battery Park and Battery Park City. They discuss Battery Park City’s beginnings and its connection to the World Trade Center. They talk about the Battery Park City Authority, as well as the financial history of building the area.

Segment 2

Joyce talks about what kind of tours she offers and how to learn more about them. Jeff and Joyce talk what the Battery Park City Authority wanted the area to look like and where the influences for the designs came from. They discuss developers involved in Battery Park City and the differences between it and Hudson Yards. They talk about interesting parks, memorials and museums located in Battery Park City.

Segment 3

Jeff introduces his second guest for the night Bob Giraldi. Bob discuss how he got into directing film and advertising. He talks about teaching young people how to direct films and the inspiration he gets from it. Jeff asks Bob about how he got involved in the restaurant business and Bob talks about the challenges yet joys of it.

Segment 4

Bob talks more about the restaurant business and how it ties into the real estate business. He talks about the early beginnings of his restaurant and about the beauty of having one in Wagner Park. He talks about seeing 9/11 from his restaurant. Jeff and Bob discuss the vibe of Battery Park City and what makes it a special place. Bob discusses his favorite dish at Gigino.

[EPISODE] Kingsbridge, The Bronx

Join us on our first episode exploring a Bronx neighborhood, Kingsbridge.

My guests are David Griffin, Founder and CEO of Landmark Branding, and Dave Lindsay, Owner and Partner of The Kingsbridge Social Club.

Segment 1

Jeff welcomes David Griffin back to the show for its first Bronx themed episode. They delve into Kingsbridge’s history, starting with the origin of the area's name, Frederick Phillipse, and the Spuytn Duyvil legend. David notes that Kingsbridge originally was a rural area and traces the development of the neighborhood in the early 20th century.

Segment 2

Jeff and David touch on David's blog that showcases every single building on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.They discuss the significant architectural landmarks in Kingsbridge, most notably the Kingsbridge Armory. David describes the architectural features of the Armory and its history. They pivot to the Yiddish Cooperative and its role in the Van Cortlandt area of Kingsbridge. David brings up the Irish American character of the neighborhood.

Segment 3

Jeff welcomes Dave Lindsay, to discuss his experience as a business owner in Kingsbridge. Dave traces his career working as a bartender then beer salesman for Harpoon Brewery, before moving to a manager position at Bronx Ale House in Kingsbridge. Dave and Jeff delve into Kingsbridge's working class and amicable character as a neighborhood. Dave describes the changes he's seen in the area since he opened his business, The Kingsbridge Social Club.

Segment 4

Dave discusses his work with kids in the Kingsbridge community. Dave and Jeff move to the challenges of being a business owner in Kingsbridge. They them provide advice for business owners looking to open in the Kingsbridge area. Dave tells the story of Tracy 168, the local graffiti artist who helped decorate the restaurant. Dave touches on how the various cultures in the area give Kingsbridge such a vibrant atmosphere.

[EPISODE] A Brooklyn Special

A history of the women's suffrage movement, and "Secret Brooklyn" 

Join me for a special episode on Brooklyn AND Women’s History Month (even though it ended yesterday).

My guests will be local historian Lucie Levine, founder of Archive On Parade, who will speak about the history of the Women’s Suffrage Movement in Brooklyn, and Michelle Young, founder of Untapped Cities, who will talk about the release of the second edition of her book Secret Brooklyn.

Segment 1

Jeff welcomes Lucie Levine back to the show to discuss Brooklyn and its connection to the Women's Suffrage Movement. Jeff and Lucie explore the history of women's suffrage within New York City. Lucie describes the role of Henry Ward Beecher and the Brooklyn clergy in the suffrage movement.

Segment 2

Lucie brings up the role of African American Brooklyn residents and their efforts in the suffrage movement. She traces the history of the Black Women's Suffrage Movement in Brooklyn. Lucie notes the Smith Sisters and Victoria Earle Matthews’ significant influence in the movement for voting equality. They touch on suffragette figures from Maria Coles Perkins to Lucy Burns.

Segment 3

Jeff welcomes his second guest Michelle Young to further delve into Brooklyn. Michelle tells her story of how she settled in Brooklyn. Jeff and Michelle talk Secret Brooklyn, Michelle's new book, and some of her favorite spots throughout Brooklyn. Michelle mentions her experience with the Park Slope Plane Crash site. They briefly get into The Lot House and Brooklyn's connection to the Underground Railroad.

Segment 4

Jeff and Michelle continue their conversation about Brooklyn's secrets. Michelle and Jeff delve into Revolutionary War history in Brooklyn. They touch on notable places throughout Brooklyn from the Martyrs Monument in Brooklyn Navy Yard to the Transportation Museum to the Bensonhurst Statue Horse. Jeff and Michelle conclude with the history of the Ebbets Field flagpole.