What used to be a Revs and Peek painting (circa 2005),
has turned into a Nike billboard atop Pedro’s Restaurant freshly painted yesterday and today.
The non-corporate paintings of Neck Face and Pedro’s (new) hand painted walls still hang on.
Thanks to Dailysession.com and Untitled Name for the photos.
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Its about time that eyesore Pedros vanished from the map. Dumbo can’t call itself a real neighborhood while that establishment is drawing riff-raff and ne’er-do-wells to the area. One block from the subway, close to lots of retail and eating options, that plot would be perfect for a 6-7 floor apartment building that would extend the neighborhood further towards Vinegar Hill.
Its about time that eyesore Pedros vanished from the map. Dumbo can’t call itself a real neighborhood while that establishment is drawing riff-raff and ne’er-do-wells to the area. One block from the subway, close to lots of retail and eating options, that plot would be perfect for a 6-7 floor apartment building that would extend the neighborhood further towards Vinegar Hill.
do you dare threaten the neckface world domination program??
do you dare threaten the neckface world domination program??
I’m not wild about the grub at Pedro’s, got to come clean about that upfront. But when did the crowds of young hipsters who eat there start getting called riff-raff?
I’m not wild about the grub at Pedro’s, got to come clean about that upfront. But when did the crowds of young hipsters who eat there start getting called riff-raff?
I think the food is good and its the only place in the neighborhood where you can have a beer and sit outside. I hope it stays forever.
I think the food is good and its the only place in the neighborhood where you can have a beer and sit outside. I hope it stays forever.
To be honest I’ve seen better food in a homeless shelter. And probably a better clientele too.
My definition of riff-raff: those who can’t afford to pay for a decent meal. ie those who spend what little money they have on a $1.50 plate of slop and a $2 beer, rather than pay up and go to Nobu like the rest of us.
If Dumbo is serious about gentrifying and becoming a decent neighborhood, here’s a great place to start.
To be honest I’ve seen better food in a homeless shelter. And probably a better clientele too.
My definition of riff-raff: those who can’t afford to pay for a decent meal. ie those who spend what little money they have on a $1.50 plate of slop and a $2 beer, rather than pay up and go to Nobu like the rest of us.
If Dumbo is serious about gentrifying and becoming a decent neighborhood, here’s a great place to start.
Its $8 for a burrito in Pedro’s. And beers are allot more then $2 bucks.
Its $8 for a burrito in Pedro’s. And beers are allot more then $2 bucks.
I feel DUMBO needs more cheap eats like Pedro’s. Good or not it has a nice dive bar feel and you can just chill outside during the summer and drink beers all day. No other place like it in DUMBO. The only negative is when cane guy, wobbly dude and just about every other panhandler come by and beg for change every 5 mins.
I feel DUMBO needs more cheap eats like Pedro’s. Good or not it has a nice dive bar feel and you can just chill outside during the summer and drink beers all day. No other place like it in DUMBO. The only negative is when cane guy, wobbly dude and just about every other panhandler come by and beg for change every 5 mins.
Sorry man, Pedro’s is not the first of many cheap places. it is the last of many.
Sorry man, Pedro’s is not the first of many cheap places. it is the last of many.
Pedro’s food menu:
http://flickr.com/photos/dumbonyc/2558843160/sizes/l/
Unfortunately, places like Pedro’s will close eventually if they can’t keep up with the increased rent asks.
Pedro’s food menu:
http://flickr.com/photos/dumbonyc/2558843160/sizes/l/
Unfortunately, places like Pedro’s will close eventually if they can’t keep up with the increased rent asks.
Don’t touch the Neckface. The first time we came to Dumbo, we got off the subway and were walking down Jay Street towards Front Street, and we saw NECKFACE painted on the top of the building. We thought it was very original and pretty funny! When we moved here, we saw it everytime we got off the subway and it became a welcome, familiar sight. (cellphone rings: Caller: Hi honey, where are you? Me: I’m at the corner of Neckface and Jay…be home in a minute.) We only thought it was a Dumbo thing, but then over the next two years we began to notice other “Neckfaces” in really interesting, obscure spots across the city – under a stair riser on a subway line (can’t remember which one), on a highway sign above the BQE, and again somewhere in Soho. I’m not a fan of graffiti and maybe its my initial association with Dumbo, but I kinda like the silly nonsense word and the out of the way placement of it – the art of the Neckface! And I’m sure the wise-ass, negative, whiners will have a field day with this entry (people are entitled to their opinions, you know).
Don’t touch the Neckface. The first time we came to Dumbo, we got off the subway and were walking down Jay Street towards Front Street, and we saw NECKFACE painted on the top of the building. We thought it was very original and pretty funny! When we moved here, we saw it everytime we got off the subway and it became a welcome, familiar sight. (cellphone rings: Caller: Hi honey, where are you? Me: I’m at the corner of Neckface and Jay…be home in a minute.) We only thought it was a Dumbo thing, but then over the next two years we began to notice other “Neckfaces” in really interesting, obscure spots across the city – under a stair riser on a subway line (can’t remember which one), on a highway sign above the BQE, and again somewhere in Soho. I’m not a fan of graffiti and maybe its my initial association with Dumbo, but I kinda like the silly nonsense word and the out of the way placement of it – the art of the Neckface! And I’m sure the wise-ass, negative, whiners will have a field day with this entry (people are entitled to their opinions, you know).
nobu? really? people still go there?
nobu? really? people still go there?
When “Smokey says..” [sic] is not spreading guff about Pedros, he can be seen there on the sidewalk, eating tamales.
When “Smokey says..” [sic] is not spreading guff about Pedros, he can be seen there on the sidewalk, eating tamales.
$8 for an inferior burrito aint cheap. The owners of pedro’s must be laughing at all the gringo’s.
$8 for an inferior burrito aint cheap. The owners of pedro’s must be laughing at all the gringo’s.
I once was at a party, and this punk rock kid from St. Louis scribbled this sloppy tag on the wall and was like, “I don’t like my work to look good. I like my stuff to look like a fourth grader drew it. I learned from neckface.”
I swear, I didn’t make this up.
I once was at a party, and this punk rock kid from St. Louis scribbled this sloppy tag on the wall and was like, “I don’t like my work to look good. I like my stuff to look like a fourth grader drew it. I learned from neckface.”
I swear, I didn’t make this up.
Neckface is graffiti, plain and simple. It is not what I would call a “painting” or even graffiti *art* of any kind.
Neckface is graffiti, plain and simple. It is not what I would call a “painting” or even graffiti *art* of any kind.
Neckface has shown in galleries. He became famous from his NYC tags. He was even given a brief profile in The New Yorker a few years back.
http://www.nypress.com/18/49/pagetwo/counterfeit2detection.cfm
“…Neckface turns out to be an ex–Pratt student, championed by a media still in love with Basquiat. Beck buys Neckface’s doodles, which sell at L.A.’s New Image Gallery for a cool $5,000.”
http://www.woostercollective.com/2004/03/neckface_profile_in_this_weeks.html
Neckface has shown in galleries. He became famous from his NYC tags. He was even given a brief profile in The New Yorker a few years back.
http://www.nypress.com/18/49/pagetwo/counterfeit2detection.cfm
“…Neckface turns out to be an ex–Pratt student, championed by a media still in love with Basquiat. Beck buys Neckface’s doodles, which sell at L.A.’s New Image Gallery for a cool $5,000.”
http://www.woostercollective.com/2004/03/neckface_profile_in_this_weeks.html
That article is hardly flattering… I have no problem with public art, or graffiti artists who do some REAL paintings–but these are just tags. They’re trashy-looking, and not an asset to any neighborhood.
That article is hardly flattering… I have no problem with public art, or graffiti artists who do some REAL paintings–but these are just tags. They’re trashy-looking, and not an asset to any neighborhood.
Speaking of Smokey… He was spotted on Water street between Washington and Main, peeking into a broken car window. Cracky must have seen me coming with her bulging cracked-out eyes, and took off back to her perch on Front St. Guess it was a slow night in front of Peas n Pickles, and had to go out looking for “work”. He looked startled when he spotted me, and gave me a glare as he moved on. I think I interrupted his business.
Speaking of Smokey… He was spotted on Water street between Washington and Main, peeking into a broken car window. Cracky must have seen me coming with her bulging cracked-out eyes, and took off back to her perch on Front St. Guess it was a slow night in front of Peas n Pickles, and had to go out looking for “work”. He looked startled when he spotted me, and gave me a glare as he moved on. I think I interrupted his business.
Oh no, here we go again with the P&P panhandlers. I can’t believe we’re still talking about this? Who is giving these people money, anyways?
Oh no, here we go again with the P&P panhandlers. I can’t believe we’re still talking about this? Who is giving these people money, anyways?
Smokey is getting fatter by the day. Apparently not working it off on the bike I saw him with today.
Smokey is getting fatter by the day. Apparently not working it off on the bike I saw him with today.
That pair of beggars has got to be the most annoying in all of Brooklyn.
That pair of beggars has got to be the most annoying in all of Brooklyn.
Anyone notice the crackheads have been MIA the past couple of days? With all that money you keep giving them, they took a vacation to the beach! Ha ha! You guys are suckers for supporting them.
Anyone notice the crackheads have been MIA the past couple of days? With all that money you keep giving them, they took a vacation to the beach! Ha ha! You guys are suckers for supporting them.
if no one gives them money they will find suckers
in a new area. just donate money to a shelter twice a year and skip smokey and crackie by ! our sidewalks are crowded already along Front Street.
if no one gives them money they will find suckers
in a new area. just donate money to a shelter twice a year and skip smokey and crackie by ! our sidewalks are crowded already along Front Street.
I’m still in town you morons, but I just got a Plasma TV so I’m sitting in front of that for a few days. Leave me in peace unless you have a special deal on some crack for me.
God Bless You
I’m still in town you morons, but I just got a Plasma TV so I’m sitting in front of that for a few days. Leave me in peace unless you have a special deal on some crack for me.
God Bless You
Your average Dumboite is not very clever. Two idle criminals are fleecing the entire neighborhood while feigning poverty. I would estimate the average daily income from a few hours of pestering, badgering and harassment to be at least $50. Thats $100 for the pair. They ‘work’ all through the year, pay no taxes, and so probably take home around $36,000. This is probably more than many of the morons who give them money in the first place!
Your average Dumboite is not very clever. Two idle criminals are fleecing the entire neighborhood while feigning poverty. I would estimate the average daily income from a few hours of pestering, badgering and harassment to be at least $50. Thats $100 for the pair. They ‘work’ all through the year, pay no taxes, and so probably take home around $36,000. This is probably more than many of the morons who give them money in the first place!
Smokey get back home, I can’t get our new Wii to work
Smokey get back home, I can’t get our new Wii to work
get a real job Smokey! you have arms and legs and what ever is left of your brain. or maybe you figure out a better way panhandling.
get a real job Smokey! you have arms and legs and what ever is left of your brain. or maybe you figure out a better way panhandling.
What happened to those signs posted that said “Please don’t feed the crackheads” They need to put those back up.
What happened to those signs posted that said “Please don’t feed the crackheads” They need to put those back up.
I am one of the artists who has been living in Dumbo for many years, and would like to put forward the opinion that I share with many of my peers in the area.
The artistic community has long been a supporter of homeless people and those generally less fortunate. I myself donate a portion of my income to such causes.
As such one might expect me to be a supporter of the two individuals usually named ‘Smokey’ and ‘Crackey’. However, these two rogues do a disservice not only to themselves, but to the cause of homeless and poverty-stricken people everywhere.
Smokey and Crackey are nothing less than an indictment of the way modern Americans expect something for nothing and live their lives with no respect or consideration for others. Their type is endemic in New York, and is polluting the cultural fabric to such a degree that many artists such as myself are considering leaving the city.
I am one of the artists who has been living in Dumbo for many years, and would like to put forward the opinion that I share with many of my peers in the area.
The artistic community has long been a supporter of homeless people and those generally less fortunate. I myself donate a portion of my income to such causes.
As such one might expect me to be a supporter of the two individuals usually named ‘Smokey’ and ‘Crackey’. However, these two rogues do a disservice not only to themselves, but to the cause of homeless and poverty-stricken people everywhere.
Smokey and Crackey are nothing less than an indictment of the way modern Americans expect something for nothing and live their lives with no respect or consideration for others. Their type is endemic in New York, and is polluting the cultural fabric to such a degree that many artists such as myself are considering leaving the city.
What can we do to stop this? I googled dumbo panhandlers online and turned up a few posts online from Aug 07 and Nov 07. It seems that going to the police did not work – even after documented harrassment. It would be great to see some fun artisitic response to “Cracky + Smokey” from our more art-inclined neighbors. Here are some fun ideas:
1. Recreate those “Please don’t feed the crackheads” signs and repost them on the sign posts (or Peas n Pickles stairs?) Make the signs look official.
2. Paint “Official Crack-money begging area” in paint on the sidewalk. To keep them confined to one area.
3. Film a documentary, telling their true story. The documentary would reveal how much $ they beg everyday, and their real income, as well as display where & how they live, plus how many crack rocks the money you give them buys. Follow them as they vandalize the neighborhood, and harass locals.
4. Set up a homeless-relief donation booth at the corner to compete with them.
5. Any more ideas… ?
What can we do to stop this? I googled dumbo panhandlers online and turned up a few posts online from Aug 07 and Nov 07. It seems that going to the police did not work – even after documented harrassment. It would be great to see some fun artisitic response to “Cracky + Smokey” from our more art-inclined neighbors. Here are some fun ideas:
1. Recreate those “Please don’t feed the crackheads” signs and repost them on the sign posts (or Peas n Pickles stairs?) Make the signs look official.
2. Paint “Official Crack-money begging area” in paint on the sidewalk. To keep them confined to one area.
3. Film a documentary, telling their true story. The documentary would reveal how much $ they beg everyday, and their real income, as well as display where & how they live, plus how many crack rocks the money you give them buys. Follow them as they vandalize the neighborhood, and harass locals.
4. Set up a homeless-relief donation booth at the corner to compete with them.
5. Any more ideas… ?
how long before one of them attacks a child? those drug users are unstable and criminal
how long before one of them attacks a child? those drug users are unstable and criminal
“Help me out please”
“Thank you God Bless you sweetie”
“It’s so hard livin’ out here”
“Help me out please”
“Thank you God Bless you sweetie”
“It’s so hard livin’ out here”
“how long before one of them attacks a child? ”
For reals? Everyone in the neighborhood, every kid, every dog even could id those two. If they ever tried anything crazy they’d be picked up so fast. They’re never going to do anything other than be a nuisance. They’re not stupid. If they ever really committed a crime or hurt someone over here they could never show their faces in DUMBO again.
“how long before one of them attacks a child? ”
For reals? Everyone in the neighborhood, every kid, every dog even could id those two. If they ever tried anything crazy they’d be picked up so fast. They’re never going to do anything other than be a nuisance. They’re not stupid. If they ever really committed a crime or hurt someone over here they could never show their faces in DUMBO again.
Last week while walking up Washington I saw the female, I assume christened Cracky, putting her backpack in a livery car as Smokey came down street cursing at me- I’ve never given him change, then they got in and went- where? HOME! Yes, they took a livery care service home. So, feel good about yourselves, whoever you are, giving money to 2 aggressive, angry thugs. You’re helping to make Dumbo a really shitty place to live. Every time I see these aggressive and angry- at people who don’t give them money- panhandlers, I think of the people working hard in the back of Peas & Pickles, or the pizza place, or even Foragers. People who usually speak little english, yet every day work long, hard hours w/ no anger towards others, while undoubtedly paid minimum wage or less. I can’t understand why people think Cracky & Smokey are oppressed, or homeless, much less w/out extensive city and state services. They are not homeless. If they were w/out opportunity for work, it could be easily available. How difficult is it to go by any local business and ask to smash/fold up the recycling cardboard boxes for $10? They don’t so this. I have never seen them doing any kind of work save for selling drugs, which is what I believe they’re doing in addition to exhorting money from mindless liberals looking for a quick “I’m so good, I helped an oppressed ( of course ‘non-white’) person today” fix. Why do people see them and give money? Is it mostly the people who work but don’t live in the neighborhood? The daytrippers?
Last week while walking up Washington I saw the female, I assume christened Cracky, putting her backpack in a livery car as Smokey came down street cursing at me- I’ve never given him change, then they got in and went- where? HOME! Yes, they took a livery care service home. So, feel good about yourselves, whoever you are, giving money to 2 aggressive, angry thugs. You’re helping to make Dumbo a really shitty place to live. Every time I see these aggressive and angry- at people who don’t give them money- panhandlers, I think of the people working hard in the back of Peas & Pickles, or the pizza place, or even Foragers. People who usually speak little english, yet every day work long, hard hours w/ no anger towards others, while undoubtedly paid minimum wage or less. I can’t understand why people think Cracky & Smokey are oppressed, or homeless, much less w/out extensive city and state services. They are not homeless. If they were w/out opportunity for work, it could be easily available. How difficult is it to go by any local business and ask to smash/fold up the recycling cardboard boxes for $10? They don’t so this. I have never seen them doing any kind of work save for selling drugs, which is what I believe they’re doing in addition to exhorting money from mindless liberals looking for a quick “I’m so good, I helped an oppressed ( of course ‘non-white’) person today” fix. Why do people see them and give money? Is it mostly the people who work but don’t live in the neighborhood? The daytrippers?
I swear to you, this is the absolute truth: I was coming out of Peas and Pimples the other night at around 6:00 p.m. and Cracky and Smokey were getting INTO A CAR SERVICE. Smokey glared at me through the window as they sped off. WTF???
I can’t stand those two hustlers. We need to do something.
I swear to you, this is the absolute truth: I was coming out of Peas and Pimples the other night at around 6:00 p.m. and Cracky and Smokey were getting INTO A CAR SERVICE. Smokey glared at me through the window as they sped off. WTF???
I can’t stand those two hustlers. We need to do something.
Dumbo is being turned into a kind of novelty ‘crack-den themepark’ by establishments like Pedros and those two dirty old crackheads outside P&P. Manhattanites will soon start calling the neighborhood “BUMBO”
Dumbo is being turned into a kind of novelty ‘crack-den themepark’ by establishments like Pedros and those two dirty old crackheads outside P&P. Manhattanites will soon start calling the neighborhood “BUMBO”
Has anyone actually seen them attack a child? ‘worried mother’ – have you seen any evidence of this?
Has anyone actually seen them attack a child? ‘worried mother’ – have you seen any evidence of this?
I’ve seen smokey and crackey turn into pitbulls cursing at people who give them dirty looks or curse at people who don’t give them any money. I’ve never seen them attack anyone. I’ve heard of marauding teens coming into the neighborhood to “attack” people for their cell phones and wallets.
I’ve seen smokey and crackey turn into pitbulls cursing at people who give them dirty looks or curse at people who don’t give them any money. I’ve never seen them attack anyone. I’ve heard of marauding teens coming into the neighborhood to “attack” people for their cell phones and wallets.
“Its about time that eyesore Pedros vanished from the map. Dumbo can’t call itself a real neighborhood while that establishment is drawing riff-raff and ne’er-do-wells to the area.”
ARE YOU PEOPLE FOR REAL? I totally agree that the Crackhead Panhandlers are a nuisance. I’ve never given them a cent. But Pedro’s? An “eyesore”? “Riff-raff” clientele? Cmmon. Nobu is so 2003 and already exists in Manhattan. Duh. It’s baffling that you come to neighborhoods for cheap real estate than endlessly piss and moan, trying to impose your bland, safe, narrow-minded sense of aesthetics, cuisine, etc on the existing neighborhood. Chad, Brad, and Trip — all of you smug, snobby newbies need to go the f&*k back to Tribeca, Brentwood, Shaker Heights or whatever precious, gleaming, Gringo enclave you crawled out of.
As for concerned Mom, I thought that ugly NYPD crane across from Forager’s was meant to keep your kids safe — meanwhile there was never concern for any kids’ safety before the Baby Bjorn Whites arrived.
–Long-standing Black Resident, 3rd Generation Bklynite, Tired of the Ohioization of DUMBO
“Its about time that eyesore Pedros vanished from the map. Dumbo can’t call itself a real neighborhood while that establishment is drawing riff-raff and ne’er-do-wells to the area.”
ARE YOU PEOPLE FOR REAL? I totally agree that the Crackhead Panhandlers are a nuisance. I’ve never given them a cent. But Pedro’s? An “eyesore”? “Riff-raff” clientele? Cmmon. Nobu is so 2003 and already exists in Manhattan. Duh. It’s baffling that you come to neighborhoods for cheap real estate than endlessly piss and moan, trying to impose your bland, safe, narrow-minded sense of aesthetics, cuisine, etc on the existing neighborhood. Chad, Brad, and Trip — all of you smug, snobby newbies need to go the f&*k back to Tribeca, Brentwood, Shaker Heights or whatever precious, gleaming, Gringo enclave you crawled out of.
As for concerned Mom, I thought that ugly NYPD crane across from Forager’s was meant to keep your kids safe — meanwhile there was never concern for any kids’ safety before the Baby Bjorn Whites arrived.
–Long-standing Black Resident, 3rd Generation Bklynite, Tired of the Ohioization of DUMBO
we need an Applebee”s or Dallas BBQ. I understand their Chocolate Singles’ nights are to die for.
we need an Applebee”s or Dallas BBQ. I understand their Chocolate Singles’ nights are to die for.
Marty, I agree Pedros is a Dumbo icon… but please don’t blame “Baby Bjorn Whites” for some of the stupid comments on this blog! While I sympathize with what “gentrification” may mean to some long time residents, I remember Dumbo in the late 80s and I think more families moving into the area, investing their life savings, and bringing a tax base with them has been a net positive for Brooklyn. Many buyers are long time residents of Brooklyn and, instead of moving away when they saved a little money (which used to be the trend everyone complained about), have invested in back the city.
Marty, I agree Pedros is a Dumbo icon… but please don’t blame “Baby Bjorn Whites” for some of the stupid comments on this blog! While I sympathize with what “gentrification” may mean to some long time residents, I remember Dumbo in the late 80s and I think more families moving into the area, investing their life savings, and bringing a tax base with them has been a net positive for Brooklyn. Many buyers are long time residents of Brooklyn and, instead of moving away when they saved a little money (which used to be the trend everyone complained about), have invested in back the city.
people like ‘marty’ should stop hating the new people who are coming into Dumbo and improving the neighborhood. Only with new, rich residents have you seen a drop in crime and the building of some great restaurants and retail space. Dumbo was dragged out of crime and destitution by bankers and lawyers moving over from Manhattan, and those same people (described hatefuly as ‘gentrifiers’) will be the drivers behind Dumbo’s continung development as a neighborhood. Deal with it and stop the hating!
people like ‘marty’ should stop hating the new people who are coming into Dumbo and improving the neighborhood. Only with new, rich residents have you seen a drop in crime and the building of some great restaurants and retail space. Dumbo was dragged out of crime and destitution by bankers and lawyers moving over from Manhattan, and those same people (described hatefuly as ‘gentrifiers’) will be the drivers behind Dumbo’s continung development as a neighborhood. Deal with it and stop the hating!
Last night, the guy in the wheelchair was begging in front of PnP, and sensing competition, Dumbo’s Dynamic Duo took off. I’d rather have that guy out there anyday – he really needs help.
Last night, the guy in the wheelchair was begging in front of PnP, and sensing competition, Dumbo’s Dynamic Duo took off. I’d rather have that guy out there anyday – he really needs help.
Jennifer:
Marty may be making some unfair generalizations, but some of the comments here about Pedros clientele are “hateful” in their own right.
While it is true that developers and bankers have played important roles, it is also true that this is not the whole picture. Artists and other long term residents represent the vision and history that are the foundation of much value in Dumbo.
Whether new residents appreciate it or not, a place like Pedros has a cultural and historical value that cannot simply be replicated by a developer. Consider how many West Village “dives” are now landmarks.
Jennifer:
Marty may be making some unfair generalizations, but some of the comments here about Pedros clientele are “hateful” in their own right.
While it is true that developers and bankers have played important roles, it is also true that this is not the whole picture. Artists and other long term residents represent the vision and history that are the foundation of much value in Dumbo.
Whether new residents appreciate it or not, a place like Pedros has a cultural and historical value that cannot simply be replicated by a developer. Consider how many West Village “dives” are now landmarks.
You know, Pedro’s is kind of an eyesore. Don’t get me wrong, the new mural is awesome, but the front of the building looks like it’s rotting off. It’s cool, but the place is homely, you gotta admit. If the food were anywhere near as good as the place is divey looking, I would be all over one of those old Burger King swivel chairs out there.
But what I really want to know, is who is getting yelling at by the P&P panhandlers?!?!? I walk by them all the time, and even though I don’t ever give them any money or say hello unless they talk to me, they never ever harass me. I have never seen them get aggressive with anyone, ever. I’ve even seen some people even let cute their little kids say hi and give em high fives.
Like I said before, those two aren’t going to go after anyone. I’m 99% sure that they’re here because they’re dealing, not cause they’re really looking for everyone’s loose change. Not saying here that a little local drug dealing cottage industry is good for the neighborhood or anything, but these guys aren’t going to randomly attack someone. They’re not going to do anything violent that could cause them to lose that corner, it’s worth waaaaaaay too much money. That’s how they can take a car service home. A couple weeks ago, I saw the dude slip something into an older guy’s hand. The guy was walking up the ramp to 55 Washington, probably to his office. It happened so fast. The older guy never slowed down, but he slipped something into the clown’s hand and took whatever back all in one slick move. Kinda wonder why the cops aren’t on to this action?
You know, Pedro’s is kind of an eyesore. Don’t get me wrong, the new mural is awesome, but the front of the building looks like it’s rotting off. It’s cool, but the place is homely, you gotta admit. If the food were anywhere near as good as the place is divey looking, I would be all over one of those old Burger King swivel chairs out there.
But what I really want to know, is who is getting yelling at by the P&P panhandlers?!?!? I walk by them all the time, and even though I don’t ever give them any money or say hello unless they talk to me, they never ever harass me. I have never seen them get aggressive with anyone, ever. I’ve even seen some people even let cute their little kids say hi and give em high fives.
Like I said before, those two aren’t going to go after anyone. I’m 99% sure that they’re here because they’re dealing, not cause they’re really looking for everyone’s loose change. Not saying here that a little local drug dealing cottage industry is good for the neighborhood or anything, but these guys aren’t going to randomly attack someone. They’re not going to do anything violent that could cause them to lose that corner, it’s worth waaaaaaay too much money. That’s how they can take a car service home. A couple weeks ago, I saw the dude slip something into an older guy’s hand. The guy was walking up the ramp to 55 Washington, probably to his office. It happened so fast. The older guy never slowed down, but he slipped something into the clown’s hand and took whatever back all in one slick move. Kinda wonder why the cops aren’t on to this action?
Dave- they’re definitely dealing. We can see them from our window and if you watch them for 15 mins. you’ll see the exact scenario play out at least 5 times: relatively well dressed man walks over to Smokey, they touch each other’s hands, then walks away immediately- w/ no time for words. Drugs. Smokey once saw me speaking to a 84th precinct cop across the street, and I assume he assumed I complained about him. He curses and threatens- w/ body language, every time he sees me now- even blocks away from P&P. The cop said, “They’re about to make a break in the case”, but couldn’t tell me more because he ‘wasn’t a detective’. That was months ago. Are they dangerous to people? I believe they are. The police won’t do anything. They were 2 community meetings w/ police that were dominated by complaints of their often aggressive behavior to many residents- some pushing & spitting on people incidents. Police response: “We can’t do anything if people give them money”. Well, they’re dealing, the cops absolutely know about it and REFUSE to do anything. All they need is one plainclothes or undercover to make a couple of buys. I suspect they won’t do it because half the time the people buying drugs come out of the pizza place, which is owned by a brother of a cop.
Dave- they’re definitely dealing. We can see them from our window and if you watch them for 15 mins. you’ll see the exact scenario play out at least 5 times: relatively well dressed man walks over to Smokey, they touch each other’s hands, then walks away immediately- w/ no time for words. Drugs. Smokey once saw me speaking to a 84th precinct cop across the street, and I assume he assumed I complained about him. He curses and threatens- w/ body language, every time he sees me now- even blocks away from P&P. The cop said, “They’re about to make a break in the case”, but couldn’t tell me more because he ‘wasn’t a detective’. That was months ago. Are they dangerous to people? I believe they are. The police won’t do anything. They were 2 community meetings w/ police that were dominated by complaints of their often aggressive behavior to many residents- some pushing & spitting on people incidents. Police response: “We can’t do anything if people give them money”. Well, they’re dealing, the cops absolutely know about it and REFUSE to do anything. All they need is one plainclothes or undercover to make a couple of buys. I suspect they won’t do it because half the time the people buying drugs come out of the pizza place, which is owned by a brother of a cop.
anon: If you can see them dealing from your apt. then set up a camera and send the pictures anonymously to this blog. If there is publicly circulating evidence, the police will be forced to act.
anon: If you can see them dealing from your apt. then set up a camera and send the pictures anonymously to this blog. If there is publicly circulating evidence, the police will be forced to act.
I doubt cops will allocate resources to collar a small time crack dealer. Cops want to go after the big fish so that they can get their promotions and get paid more. To them smokey and crackey are small flies on the wall.
I doubt cops will allocate resources to collar a small time crack dealer. Cops want to go after the big fish so that they can get their promotions and get paid more. To them smokey and crackey are small flies on the wall.
dumbostreets – “a place like Pedros has a cultural and historical value that cannot simply be replicated by a developer”
That might be the funniest thing I’ve heard all year. Pedros has all the cultural value of a Ziploc bag of turd.
dumbostreets – “a place like Pedros has a cultural and historical value that cannot simply be replicated by a developer”
That might be the funniest thing I’ve heard all year. Pedros has all the cultural value of a Ziploc bag of turd.
Jennifer – I wholeheartedly disagree. One could argue that a place like Pedros, with its excited and varied discussions, is more culturally valuable than the Brooklyn Bridge, which after all inspires little more than ‘Oh look at that’. Pedros is a living embodiment of the fascinating multicultural city that New York has become, and in its own way is more representative of the times in which we live than any physical landmark.
Jennifer – I wholeheartedly disagree. One could argue that a place like Pedros, with its excited and varied discussions, is more culturally valuable than the Brooklyn Bridge, which after all inspires little more than ‘Oh look at that’. Pedros is a living embodiment of the fascinating multicultural city that New York has become, and in its own way is more representative of the times in which we live than any physical landmark.
“Pedros is a living embodiment of the fascinating multicultural city that New York has become, and in its own way is more representative of the times in which we live than any physical landmark.”
You’re so full of crap your eyes are brown. Pedro’s is and always has been an eyesore and a shithole and needs to be torn down.
“Pedros is a living embodiment of the fascinating multicultural city that New York has become, and in its own way is more representative of the times in which we live than any physical landmark.”
You’re so full of crap your eyes are brown. Pedro’s is and always has been an eyesore and a shithole and needs to be torn down.
Rawr: “Pedro’s is and always has been an eyesore and a shithole and needs to be torn down.”
I have nothing against bankers and lawyers and improved amenities. My father is a banker. I love Foragers. My objection isn’t to “gentrification,” it’s to the horse-blinder, Vanilla mentality like Rawrs. If these newbies want Applebees and NOBU why the HELL are they in DUMBO? DumboStreets is NOT “full of shit.” Pedro’s DOES have immense cultural and historical value. If a snobby, newbie crank gets over the supposed “eye sore” factor and pays attention, s/he can REGULARLY hear great conversations between old-timers, the young artists, people from public housing, long-time stalwarts, etc. WHY did the Police become pro-active only once the Baby Bjorn Whites arrived? And why are the newbies perpetually hellbent on imposing their narrow tastes? Old-timers don’t object to people or $$$, we object to patronizing attitudes.
Rawr: “Pedro’s is and always has been an eyesore and a shithole and needs to be torn down.”
I have nothing against bankers and lawyers and improved amenities. My father is a banker. I love Foragers. My objection isn’t to “gentrification,” it’s to the horse-blinder, Vanilla mentality like Rawrs. If these newbies want Applebees and NOBU why the HELL are they in DUMBO? DumboStreets is NOT “full of shit.” Pedro’s DOES have immense cultural and historical value. If a snobby, newbie crank gets over the supposed “eye sore” factor and pays attention, s/he can REGULARLY hear great conversations between old-timers, the young artists, people from public housing, long-time stalwarts, etc. WHY did the Police become pro-active only once the Baby Bjorn Whites arrived? And why are the newbies perpetually hellbent on imposing their narrow tastes? Old-timers don’t object to people or $$$, we object to patronizing attitudes.
Marty, you can go blow it out of your ass. I’ve lived here for 8 years and could care less about “great conversations between yada yada” at Pedro’s. Just because you’re in awe doesn’t mean there’s anything to be in awe of.
The place looks awful, smells bad, is bug infested, serves terrible food, and is run by people who don’t care. Someone I know recently ordered a plate of food there, got it home and found a piece of glass in it, brought it back and they acted like he was lying and did absolutely nothing. If I ran my DUMBO business like that I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t, or SHOULDN’T, have one.
Just because someone doesn’t like a poorly run eyesore doesn’t mean they are a gentrification supporting snob.
Marty, you can go blow it out of your ass. I’ve lived here for 8 years and could care less about “great conversations between yada yada” at Pedro’s. Just because you’re in awe doesn’t mean there’s anything to be in awe of.
The place looks awful, smells bad, is bug infested, serves terrible food, and is run by people who don’t care. Someone I know recently ordered a plate of food there, got it home and found a piece of glass in it, brought it back and they acted like he was lying and did absolutely nothing. If I ran my DUMBO business like that I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t, or SHOULDN’T, have one.
Just because someone doesn’t like a poorly run eyesore doesn’t mean they are a gentrification supporting snob.
Sassy service in New York!?! I can’t imagine. I’ve NEVER heard of anyone finding a foreign item in their food here in the city. Phew, when I found a glass shard in my food at the Gansevoort Hotel last week, I was beginning to take it personally …. Close Pedro’s *immediately*. Let’s get another Alain Ducasse for you transplants, quick!
Sassy service in New York!?! I can’t imagine. I’ve NEVER heard of anyone finding a foreign item in their food here in the city. Phew, when I found a glass shard in my food at the Gansevoort Hotel last week, I was beginning to take it personally …. Close Pedro’s *immediately*. Let’s get another Alain Ducasse for you transplants, quick!
It’s easy to please those with very low, or no, standards.
It’s easy to please those with very low, or no, standards.
Let’s be honest if Pedro’s was anywhere else, like in the city for example, it would be heralded a piece of sh!t by just about any man woman or child. The mural is ghastly and is something out of rural mexico.
Let’s be honest if Pedro’s was anywhere else, like in the city for example, it would be heralded a piece of sh!t by just about any man woman or child. The mural is ghastly and is something out of rural mexico.
What is it about sh!t things that New Yorkers really love? Your roads are sh!t, your subway is sh!t, most of the city looks like sh!t, and now apparently even your restaurants are sh!t. Pedros would be laughed out of town in any other city in the world, but the residents of New York Sh!tty seem to love it.
What is it about sh!t things that New Yorkers really love? Your roads are sh!t, your subway is sh!t, most of the city looks like sh!t, and now apparently even your restaurants are sh!t. Pedros would be laughed out of town in any other city in the world, but the residents of New York Sh!tty seem to love it.
Hey anon, thanks for your reply. The deal I saw happened so fast, I really wondered if I had imagined it. You know, you might actually have some power when it comes to getting the P&P clowns out of town. But watch your back, you’ll probably get accused of ruining the character of DUMBO if those jokers are successfully run out of here.
Have you ever called 911 while you saw them dealing? 911 reports leave a paper trail that eventually gets sent up to the big guys. If you start being a pest and create enough calls, someone might actually do something. This is the first thing I’ve heard about those clowns that is actually a real reason to get rid of em.
Wouldn’t it be crazy if Crackey and Smokey turned out to be deep deep undercover narcs in the end? And all the clean cut peeps who buy from them wind up busted?!?
Hey anon, thanks for your reply. The deal I saw happened so fast, I really wondered if I had imagined it. You know, you might actually have some power when it comes to getting the P&P clowns out of town. But watch your back, you’ll probably get accused of ruining the character of DUMBO if those jokers are successfully run out of here.
Have you ever called 911 while you saw them dealing? 911 reports leave a paper trail that eventually gets sent up to the big guys. If you start being a pest and create enough calls, someone might actually do something. This is the first thing I’ve heard about those clowns that is actually a real reason to get rid of em.
Wouldn’t it be crazy if Crackey and Smokey turned out to be deep deep undercover narcs in the end? And all the clean cut peeps who buy from them wind up busted?!?
Why has nobody mentioned the actual subject of the article? Remember the hideous Nike billboard that was just planted in the neighborhood? Not only is it a thoughtless saturation ad (the kind with no real message, intended to merely remind you that the brand exists) but it’s ugly to boot. That girl is staring at me cross-eyed every time i get off the subway, beckoning me to do what though? Giving her a Neckface makeover would be a welcome improvement. At least then it would be ugly enough to laugh at.
Why has nobody mentioned the actual subject of the article? Remember the hideous Nike billboard that was just planted in the neighborhood? Not only is it a thoughtless saturation ad (the kind with no real message, intended to merely remind you that the brand exists) but it’s ugly to boot. That girl is staring at me cross-eyed every time i get off the subway, beckoning me to do what though? Giving her a Neckface makeover would be a welcome improvement. At least then it would be ugly enough to laugh at.
I was walking around the neighborhood and I saw smokey and crackey hanging out in front of P&P. Then I saw him going to the other grocery at Jay Street. Thank G for the cops walking the beat around the neighborhood. I’m hoping it deters the panhandling in the neighborhood.
I was walking around the neighborhood and I saw smokey and crackey hanging out in front of P&P. Then I saw him going to the other grocery at Jay Street. Thank G for the cops walking the beat around the neighborhood. I’m hoping it deters the panhandling in the neighborhood.
I have also seen the shaky guy with the cane dealing. A guy rode up on a bicycle and stopped and did the little drug hand pat thing. These lowlifes are supplementing their dealing with panhandling. That 36K/year is a low estimate. These clowns make more money than many of the hard working residents.
I have also seen the shaky guy with the cane dealing. A guy rode up on a bicycle and stopped and did the little drug hand pat thing. These lowlifes are supplementing their dealing with panhandling. That 36K/year is a low estimate. These clowns make more money than many of the hard working residents.
While on the subject of the pondscum that roam the streets of Dumbo, may i lodge a complaint against the dirty hippy community that parks itself outside Pedros every time the weather is nice?
Spilling out on to the street like turd rolling out a blocked toilet, these people are far more polluting to the neighborhood than any Nike billboard.
While on the subject of the pondscum that roam the streets of Dumbo, may i lodge a complaint against the dirty hippy community that parks itself outside Pedros every time the weather is nice?
Spilling out on to the street like turd rolling out a blocked toilet, these people are far more polluting to the neighborhood than any Nike billboard.
Madame Crackey – the best comment that I have read all year. Congrats!
Madame Crackey – the best comment that I have read all year. Congrats!
:D/
:D/
when Dumbo had no name and we had bad rif raf, we basically chased them out of the nabe. With pipe in hand and lots of running.
If everyone gave our crackheads the evil eye and stopped being their “friends”, they would leave.
Honestly, you have to be stupid to give them money to support their habits. If you feel sorry for impoverished people give money to the FOOD BANK or go work at a soup kitchen. If you need to be friends with a crackhead you must have a pretty pathetic life.
when Dumbo had no name and we had bad rif raf, we basically chased them out of the nabe. With pipe in hand and lots of running.
If everyone gave our crackheads the evil eye and stopped being their “friends”, they would leave.
Honestly, you have to be stupid to give them money to support their habits. If you feel sorry for impoverished people give money to the FOOD BANK or go work at a soup kitchen. If you need to be friends with a crackhead you must have a pretty pathetic life.