Richmond Parkway

The Daily Plant : Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Happy Holidays From Central Park

Join the Central Park Conservancy in celebrating all that New York City's winter wonderland has to offer during the holiday season. From the tranquil beauty of this urban retreat, to free festive events, to great shopping, Central Park has it all!

Holiday Shopping: Give a "gift with a purpose." Give the gift of America's urban treasure - Central Park! The Central Park Conservancy is pleased to offer unique gifts for the holiday season. From stunning images celebrating the splendor of one of the world's great public spaces and fun official Central Park merchandise to exclusive tours offered by the Women's Committee, visit www.centralparknyc.org and click on the "Shop the Park!" icon for one-stop shopping. Visitors to the Park may also purchase many items at the Dairy Visitor Center & Gift Shop (inside the Park at E. 65th Street). Best of all, proceeds from the sale of these items help keep the Park "clean and green."

Holiday Events: Celebrate the season in Central Park. Make your own menorah, gaze at winter constellations, enjoy the spectacular lighting of the picturesque Dana Discovery Center, meet Saint Nicholas, hear the story of Kwanzaa, and much more. The events are free and for all ages. Registration required for some events; advance registration is required for groups.

Belvedere Castle (Mid-Park at 79th Street)
Thurs., Dec. 20, 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm: Stargazing and Storytelling with Amateur Astronomers Association of New York
Sat., Dec. 22, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm: Meet Saint Nicholas 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Ornament-making
Sun., Dec. 23, 11:00 pm - 1:00 pm: Meet Saint Nicholas 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Ornament-making

Charles A. Dana Discovery Center (Inside the Park at 110th Street between Fifth and Lenox Avenues)
Thurs., Dec. 27, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Kinara-making with Museum for African Art
Sun., Dec. 30, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm: The Story of Kwanzaa with Museum for African Art

Chess & Checkers House (Mid-Park at 65th Street)
Wed., Dec. 26, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Kwanzaa Crafts
Thurs., Dec. 27, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Hanukkah Crafts
Fri., Dec. 28, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Christmas Crafts

For specific program information, including registration requirements and time of events, please visit www.centralparknyc.org or call 212-860-1370.

KUDOS TO GREENBELT RECREATION CENTER

Dear Mr. Benepe:

As a lifelong New Yorker, I am seldom astonished by anything that goes on in this city. However, at the urging of my daughter, I recently joined the Greenbelt Recreation Center here on Staten Island. I cannot begin to adequately express how impressed I am by this facility. The manager, Christopher Caropolo, is to be commended for this efficient, well run operation, though he modestly credits the staff when complimented.

The facility itself is immaculate, inside and outside. The staff is friendly, courteous, helpful, patient and informative – each and every one I have encountered. The setting, in the heart of the Greenbelt, is idyllic and beautiful and provides ample parking (no small amenity, these days!) The exercise machines are well-maintained, and all equipment is clean, orderly and sufficient.

Needless to say, this is the best bargain in New York, and a boon to senior citizens like myself.

The Greenbelt Recreation Center is a jewel in the crown of New York. Please accept my compliments and thanks.

Sincerely,

Joan Callahan

QUOTATION FOR THE DAY

“Music with dinner is an insult both to the cook and the violinist.”

G.K. Chesterton
(1874 – 1936)