Fallout From the Smoking Ban

At first I was puzzled why a bar (The Library on Ave A) inside which smoking was banned and that was surrounded by bodegas would be selling cigarettes. Then I realized that it was "dip". Hunh. This is after I was just told about the growing numbers of guys in my office who keep spit cups on their desks in which to expectorate their smokeless tobacco. Sometimes it seems like no one smokes anymore. Maybe it's because they're all chewing instead?

I like to think the bloody severed head just above one corner of the dip case was the bar's subtle editorial comment on what happens if you actually use the stuff.

Impromptu Dance Party At Black & White

After the Liars at McCarren Pool, which led seamlessly into post-show bingo in Greenpoint, and was capped off by devouring an entire pork shoulder Bo Ssam feast at Momofuku Ssam Bar, only 1 question remained: WHERE TO NEXT?!?! The show must go on, so we stumbled into Black & White bar on 10th street. When we first approached and the doorman said in an apologetic tone that they were hosting a private party, my normal pluckiness was placed aside and I was all-too-ready to take the dismissal as a sign that enough imbibing had taken place for one evening and head home. But just as I was about to thank the man and walk away, the doorman had a change of heart and said it seemed like we'd enjoy the party and should come inside. Well, fine then.

Just when I thought my fun quotient had been reached for the evening, this dancing queen kept me entertained for at least another hour into the night, as she got down to the DJ spinning records just outside the frame.