Heather Kovar: Reporter and her dog in New York City.

2012-01-30T14:17:00.000-05:00

Nearly two years since I've posted to this blog.
It's a shame since "Reporter and her dog" was one of the biggest elements of my life since 2006. And haha- when I look back at the writing from 06 to 08 it's much better than my "experimental times with social media" of 09 and 10.
I'm living in London now and trying to figure out how to get back into the Swinging 06's.
Olympics are coming up- anyone need a reminder?
I'm constantly reminded of Connecticut- the games are in Stratford, you pass the Stamford tube stop on the way there- not far past Greenwich- oh and these are the easy ones just off the top of my memory.
So from here- let's see where the future Leeds.
(Ugh that was a way dumb reference to UK football that had no place here :)) sorry....
Heather

2010-06-24T06:01:00.003-04:00

WILLAMENA CHEERS ON USA IN THE WORLDCUP

There might have also been a piece of steak involved.

2010-05-05T06:27:00.003-04:00

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!

Yes, it's considered an American drinking holiday. But so what?

A while back, Willamena put together a list of some of her favorite Mexican hot spots in New York City. So if you are looking for a place to have a marg- CHECK IT OUT HERE.

According to Mexonline.com, in Mexico the day is not that big of a deal, just in the Mexican state capital city of Puebla and throughout the state of Puebla.
Cinco de Mayo commemorates the victory of the Mexican militia over the French army at The Battle Of Puebla in 1862.

As for Mexico Independence Day? We'll have to raise a glass in September for that.

2009-10-29T06:43:00.003-04:00

The Willabeast strikes again.
Actually, I think it's time to call in the big dog to spook the Philly Phillies as we head into game two of the World Series.

Upper West Side dog is a Yankees fan, and she wants a win. Last year she haunted Philladelphia with her devilish antics- so maybe she left behind a curse.
Click here to see the Willabeast's Haunted Philly tour.

Short clip of interview w Charles Grodin. Longer versionuploaded later- plus watch on News 12 CT tonight.

2009-10-19T12:58:00.001-04:00

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Heather Kovar
Twitter: hrkovar
HeatherKovar.com

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2009-10-06T06:00:00.002-04:00

Help the Willa-Beast choose a Halloween Costume!

Remember Willamena's visit to the Bull and Bears as a Mutt-ador?

Click here to read her post about the stock market last October and click here for the pics with the bears!

However, we still need to decide what Willamena will wear this Halloween! I was thinking lab- tekkie. Maybe put a white coat and give her an i-Paw. I'm holding out for something better. Send me your ideas.

Every year we revisit the Willa-beast's haunted tour of NYC-
so CLICK HERE ...if you DARE...

Oh, she has also already been "Super-Mena."

But don't worry, I'm sure I'll find something with all the help retailers are sending.
I think the emails starting arriving mid-September.
Amazon, ebay and a company I don't remember ever ordering from, filled my in-box with titles such as "$10 Off Costumes." "Don't be left without a costume!" "The best ones are going fast."

They're said to be spooked about consumer spending this entire upcoming holiday season. A survey by the National Retail Federation says Americans plan to spend 15-percent less on Halloween this year.
Even following a dismal retail report yesterday, futures are up this morning. News 12 Business Reporter Bob Plunkett says some analysts think that after everyone's "NO-spending sprees" all year, as soon as people start shopping for gifts, they WILL make the impulse buys for themselves.

After all the tricks, maybe it is time to treat yourself.
In moderation.

2009-10-04T16:22:00.000-04:00

I love that trees in Central Park are labeled. I can stop and look at them and know who they are and where they came from. I thought it was great the other day in Connecticut when I noticed some trees near the Bruce Museum in Greenwich were labeled as well. I started telling my friend Dwight about how I love reading labels on trees when I noticed, I was labeled. We had been at a media event, and not only did I still have my name tag on, I was labeled "New 12" instead of "News 12."
But this also reminded me of another time I had a label- and so here is the story of not just being labeled, but of where we put those labels.

If you watched the video, you heard about how I left a news conference with a name tag on, but how my photographer reminded me to take it off before shooting a stand-up. I'm not going to litter, so I pulled the sticker off my chest and put it on my back-side. Of course people walking by had to let me know I had something on my....

AND that story reminds me of a Halloween a few years earlier. As morning anchor, I like to have a costume, but I can't wear it all morning long, I mean, I am a serious journalist. So that year, I wore a white suit, brought along bunny ears, tail and a duster. I was a "dust bunny." Get it?

So we took some pictures for the blog. My photographer was supposed to remind me to take off the tail, but wouldn't you know it, we got called out to breaking news and I'm running around asking people what happened. I couldn't understand why they all kept telling me how much they liked my suit.

Finally I turned to 'not face' my photographer and asked, I took that tail off, right?
"Umm, NO."

Good thing Halloweeen is a Saturday this year and I'm not working!

2009-10-03T16:40:00.012-04:00

Hey fellow Twitter fans.
Whether you use the social networking site for conversation or marketing or a way to never eat dinner alone, you should be aware of local tweet-ups and opportunities to meet people with whom you share links.
I'm excited to attend the upcoming #140 Conference in London, because I met so many agitators and movers and inspired thinkers at Jeff Pulver's #140 New York back in June.

As Pulver's gatherings move forward, he says #140conf is not about microblogging or the place where people share twitter “tips and techniques” but rather where we explore the effects of the real-time Internet on Business.

You can still register for #140 Los Angeles (October 27th-28th,) #140 London (November 17th,) and #140 Tel Aviv.
Maybe you are wondering how to get an opportunity to speak at one of these, or future events? @jer979 (Jeremy Epstein) spoke at #140 NYC and said he read every tweet by founder Jeff Pulver. He says he know what Jeff was looking for, and was able to respond and make a pitch based on what he knew about Jeff through his tweets. He explains why following only a select few works for him in this little video I shot with him at #140 NYC.

With all that is out there on Twitter, how can one read every single tweet of someone they follow? Simple strategy according to @jer979. When he spoke at #140 in NYC, he actually "got some boos" when he told the crowd that he only follows 140 people. He says it allows him to read every tweet and post and link of the experts he follows.
However, checking in with him now, he is only following 99 people!

I don't remember exactly what it was, but something @jer979 said at #140 conf influenced some interesting works from Jeff Pulver. After Epstein spoke, Pulver went on to say how twitter and blogs and your footprint on the internet are your legacies. Your words are there for future generations to read; ways to get to know you better.

With that in mind, see you at #140 London!

2009-09-21T07:56:00.002-04:00

"Acorns keep falling on my head... "
Willamena was almost nocked in the head by these little nuts that were raining from the sky in Central Park Sunday morning. The squirrels were busy in the trees above, and the acorns had a certain rythm as they fell and hit the sidewalk, bouncing up to hit a few more notes as they bounced to their resting spots.

2009-09-03T18:49:00.002-04:00

Yes, this year will be better than the last.
Willamena is enjoying the Counting Crows in Central Park.

2009-09-03T18:39:00.002-04:00

2009-08-29T18:41:00.002-04:00

A tour from the roof of 124 Broadway.

2009-08-28T04:30:00.002-04:00

Witness says one of the cruisers got a call and took off. He says he watched as they used the jaws of life to cut off the top to get the one driver out.
72nd and West Wnd is a dangerous intersection. There are accidents here all the time.

Meet LT Sean Cooney @StamfordPolice . We are mic-ing him up for an interview. @chicphotog

2009-08-24T11:53:00.001-04:00

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Twitter: hrkovar
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2009-08-23T10:49:00.002-04:00

2009-08-23T10:45:00.002-04:00

2009-08-23T07:21:00.002-04:00

2009-08-19T06:46:00.007-04:00

STRIKE A POSE!

While your dog might not enjoy hamming it up for the camera as much as Willamena does, (wonder where she gets that from?) there are ways to jazz up your pet's pics.

Tips such as changing angles by getting down at your pet's level, come from a professional photographer on the blog of Dogster.com.
Send Mena your best shots.

2009-08-17T13:10:00.002-04:00

We are at the zoo finding out how the animals are keeping cool. Zoo Director Gregg Dancho says animals have natural habitat and plenty of shade and water. Later on News 12, heat from a vet on keeping you pets safe in heat. Also see the Guinea Hogs. There are only about 150 in country. They are endangered and called a heritage breed.

Part two of tweeting standup. Got called up on stage when act didn't show up.

2009-08-15T22:21:00.001-04:00

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Two parter: got called up to do standup.

2009-08-15T22:18:00.001-04:00

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Proof a pedicure is a NECESSITY

2009-08-11T11:23:00.001-04:00

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Having fun at the beach (@ work) w/ @chickphotog

2009-08-11T11:14:00.001-04:00

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Jail cell in new Greenwich PD Public Safety Complex.

2009-08-10T10:52:00.001-04:00

This is a media tour. Ribbon cutting is August 24th. Expect to start occupying late September or early October. More on News 12 CT at 5.

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2009-08-09T06:58:00.002-04:00

Willamena's New Haircut!
My floor thanks me.

My first audio boo. I tested it out last weekend before it was connected to Twitter.

2009-08-07T12:38:00.001-04:00

Listen!

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2009-08-07T06:40:00.002-04:00

Behind the Scenes of a News 12 Connecticut newscast.
Meet Morning Producer Gwen Edwards.

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Video on set this am. Having fun on Friday.

2009-08-07T05:45:00.001-04:00

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2009-08-01T14:17:00.004-04:00

BURNING ICE
NYC Artist Chin Chih Yang recreates the melting of the earth's ice cap with interactive ice sculpture in Union Square.
www.123soho.com

2009-08-01T13:04:00.004-04:00

Saturday afternoon NYC Walk: Water Stop at The Frying Pan.
Railroad and Ship history buffs should not miss Pier 66 Maritime in NYC. As you walk along Hudson River Park at W. 26th street, Pier 66 is a former railroad barge that is now used as a public access pier.

According to it's website, the barge at Pier 66 was originally used as a car float for the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western railroad. Once you walk along restored rails, you will find a restored ships as well as a bar and grill.

2009-07-06T13:16:00.002-04:00

Shelter Dogs Rock! Largest adoption ever held in Connecticut. Friday through Sunday at Petsmart North Haven. 400 Universal Drive North, North Haven.
View puppies www.spcact.org
Fill out application online.
I'm holding one of 18 rescue puppies that arrived in CT from Georgia yesterday. Hundreds more are arriving. 400 dogs will be up for adoption this weekend.

2009-07-05T16:15:00.002-04:00

What a way to wrap up the long Fourth of July holiday weekend. Devour an ice cream on seconds. You should see what this dog can do to a hot dog. Watch out Joey Chestnut!

UWS Residents finaly get their sparklers on.

2009-07-05T02:30:00.001-04:00

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NYC Fireworks

2009-07-04T21:45:00.001-04:00

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High Line from 10th ave (last vo till fireworks!)

2009-07-04T17:06:00.001-04:00

A view of the High Line from the street. This is fr the location you can look down from the High Line through the glass.

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Video from High Line with Empire State Building

2009-07-04T14:59:00.001-04:00

As of now, the High Line only runs as far north as W 20th. Enter at 10th ave. This video features some wild flowers and the Empire State Building. The southernmost entrance is Gansevoort street.

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2009-07-04T14:48:00.002-04:00

There are bleachers and a glass wall to sit and watch the street below.

The High Line in NYC

2009-07-04T14:41:00.001-04:00

This amazing new park just opened in NYC. The High Line is an old abandoned train rail. Back in the day it was a place of debauchery and scene of drugs. Now through renovation and love, it is a public park. Luxury condos, hotels and amazing architechture line the route here on the west side.

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2009-07-03T17:51:00.003-04:00

We are sitting on the bench just steps from the 79th street Boat Basin Cafe. It is outdoors, so they allow dogs at the tables and at the bar. Mena loves stopping in for a beer and demands one of her own when we are there.
Today, however, we are taking a nice walk, drinking water and relaxing.

2009-06-14T10:08:00.011-04:00

"Celebrating Our Music" is the theme of today's Puerto Rican day parade in New York City.

Here is MENA-UDO enjoying the Puerto Rican Day parade in New York City two years ago.
(Read about her adventure here.)

2009 celebrity honorees include New York Yankee Bernie Williams, reggaeton star Daddy Yankee, and Grammy winner Olga Tañón. The parade starts at 11 am at Fifth Avenue and 44th Street.

After celebrating music, you can celebrate some great art that belongs to the Museo de Arte de Ponce. While that museum in Puerto Rico is under renovation, it's paintings are on loan. The only place you can see it's "Masterpieces of European Painting" in the Northeast is at the Bruce Museum in Greenwich through September 6, 2009.
Here is an interview with the curator of Museo de Arte de Ponce, Richard Aste.

2009-06-11T21:08:00.006-04:00

MOTO MUTT in NYC

"If you really want to know
What I want in a guy
When I'm looking for a dream on a mean machine
With hell in his eyes.

A cool rider.. "

Willamena would be in love. Just when you thought you'd seen it all, New York City unleashes the surprises. I saw Moto Mutt on the West Side Highway. Scrambling to find my Flip cam while trying to mind traffic, I at least got a few shots. Watch as I approach the cool riders.

Driving through construction and traffic trying not to have or cause an accident, I lost Moto Mutt. However, Mena, your cool rider must live nearby because he took the same exit. I caught up with him on Broadway. I missed the opportunity to video him brushing out the dog and removing the goggles. But here are a few shots from a stop light. They saw me snapping.

2009-06-10T06:58:00.014-04:00

Abandoned Puppies

Three puppies need a home! These two guys and a gal were left abandoned on a country road in Texas without food or water. My dad found them on his way to the post office to mail jalapenos he grew for me. (We must name one Jalapeno.)

It was a very hot day. Imagine- 98-degrees, no water or food, just left to die on the side of the road.

My mom says these pups are so young they tried to nurse her dog once they got them home, but at least they are old enough to eat. Actually, mom said they ate and ate and then ate her dog's food. Look at the round belly on the one lying down.

If anyone in Texas wants a pup, let me know.
Willamena was a rescue dog. Here are two of her earliest pics. She just turned 11 in April.

2009-06-09T19:43:00.003-04:00

NEW YORK CITY THUNDERSTORM

Having overslept on Monday morning, I was slightly worried about getting up in time for work Tuesday. Both of my cell phones, which are my alarms, seemed to be acting out. I set an emergency backup for 3:00am. However, I didn't need any of them because nature was there for me.

Just minutes before my first cell phone alarm went off, (at about 2:45 am) I awoke to flashes of light and noise. It was a storm. Willamena was no where to be found. She somehow squeezed her 70 pound body into a ten pound space between my bed and the wall. She doesn't like loud storms. After several minutes of snoozing to the rhythm of the rain, I grabbed my Flip cam since the thunder didn't want to stop. It was like someone pounding a bass drum every once in a while with no consideration of the actual drum beat.

The storm seemed louder than the camera picked up. But then I was probably just worried about walking Willamena and driving to work. I actually like the noise. I should loop it and play it as background music. Maybe I'll use it in a future song. (There is a good flash of lightning and clap of thunder about two minutes in.) Also, you can hear my cell phone alarm at the end of the recording. I had to get up at some point.

2009-06-08T07:48:00.004-04:00

Getting Caught in Times Square

Typically I avoid Times Square. I enjoyed the area while working at Reuters and running over to the Nasdaq for reports. However otherwise, I find it's best to avoid the tourist traffic.

Yet this weekend I jumped right in the middle of it. Recently the city closed parts of Broadway to traffic and opened what you may call a pedestrian beach. Right where people wait in line for discount theatre tickets, they've placed lawn chairs for people to relax. Then, on the edge of the beach and where the street traffic resumes, there is this chair shaped like a mitt.

2009-06-04T06:28:00.014-04:00

NYC Dog visits Stamford, Connecticut.

35-miles from mid-town Manhattan, Mena finds plenty to do in Stamford, Connecticut.

Check out Willamena's visit to Stamford. Here you see her at the Bartlett Arboretum, where dogs can walk the trails on leash.

Click here for the DogFriendly.com "2009 Dog-Friendly City Guides."
Stamford isn't on the list, so you will have to use Mena's recommendations!

Purina's blog, Petcentric, has compiled several links to help you travel with your pet, including pet travel etiquette and a number to call on your cell to find dog friendly spots on the road.

2009-05-23T10:51:00.006-04:00

Houston, we have a problem.

This picture was posted on one of my friend's Facebook pages. He writes: "Houston's no-nonsense approach to crime extends to those who dare to dine with their dogs."

While New York City Health Code forbids dogs inside restaurants, there are plenty of places to sit and eat outside with the dog by your side.

Legal? It would be too much to enforce. Some restaurants even have doggy friendly entrees! This is from Shake Shack, an outdoor restaurant. There are also plenty of places to satisfy a dog's thirst.

A visit to the 79th Street Boat Basin is due soon.

2009-05-21T07:46:00.006-04:00

Achilles Schiano of the New York Press Club captured the opening ceremonies of Fleet Week 09. See more pics and read his write up here.

2009-05-20T20:00:00.006-04:00

Happy Fleet Week!
Let's hear it for Rivron Three!

These guys are just in from Virginia. They arrived on the USS Iwo Jima, a 40,500-ton assault helicopter carrier said to be the largest and most familiar ship at his year's Fleet Week. The men said if you take a tour, they are on a smaller boat on a helicopter pad at the bottom of the vessel.

This year's Fleet Week is the smallest ever, with only three major U.S. warships and five Canadian vessels in the lineup.
More....

2009-05-20T07:41:00.005-04:00

FLEET WEEK is underway in NYC.

Willamena poses with some visitors during Fleet Week two years ago.
Here are some links to help you navigate Fleet Week.

Fleet Week NYC 2009

Schedule of Events.

Here is a Happy Hour tip to early risers or those who have been out all night.
Jeremys Ale House- $1.75 buckets of Coors- 8am to 10am
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
228 Front St. near Peck Slip, Financial District

2009-05-18T18:56:00.002-04:00

Was that an earthquake, or is this burger THAT good?

Sunday night, 9pm-ish, my friend in La Jolla, California says he was eating an In-N-Out burger while watching "Forgetting Sarah Marshall."

In the midst of the movie, he says the couch started to sway. "It felt like I was sitting on a couch that was moving with a cool wave. I thought that it was my in 'n' out burger that got the best of me."

The earthquake that hit California Sunday, measuring 4.7 in the Los Angeles area, is said to have been felt as far away as San Diego county, which contains La Jolla.

My friend, who is originally from the New York City area, says that where he was it was more like a 3.0. To help me better understand what a 3.0 earthquake would feel like eating a burger watching a funny movie, my friend says to imagine sitting on the couch and all of a sudden Mena jumps up next to me. But a light jump.

2009-05-05T06:58:00.007-04:00

HAPPY CINCO DE MAYO!

This is the first year that on Cinco de Mayo I'm happy to be celebrating at home instead of in Mexico. Still battling the H1-N1 flu, Mexico has called off many of it's usual celebrations. The country, however, is slowly returning to normal with businesses and schools set to resume later in the week.

For a list of some favorite Mexican food places in New York City, click here.

For some great places in Connecticut, click here.
I'm sure there are many great restaurants left off these lists. However, I am always willing to try new places and add them to my repertoire. So send me your favs.

In the mena-time, enjoy your margaritas and Pina Coladas. Or as Mena likes to call them, Mena-Coladas.

2009-05-01T06:17:00.000-04:00

While digging around the internet, Willamena came across a blog called
"The Litterbox."

Mena loves cats; and now her new favorite kitty is the self-proclamined "strangest." The blogger found the video from my comedy show at Gotham and called me "not just your everyday news anchor."

Willamena and I are thrilled. Considering he is the only blogger to give me "face time" from that event. Other bloggers gave me "foot time" by reblogging a picture hotty
Mary Rambin took of my shoes.
Here is one blogger's reaction to the Mary's shoe/comedy report.

I learned Louboutins aren't funny, but they generate blogs. On that topic, have you seen Michelle Obama's $540.00 Lanvin sneakers?

See them here- plus read
how she says she needs comfortable shoes to walk the dog.

2009-04-04T19:15:00.005-04:00

Willamena Loves New York.
Here is a sign of spring in Central Park- yes, taken on the weekend.
Seems like prior to a visit from an out of towner,
this blogger didn't appreciate THE PARK on the weekend. (Yes, it's annoying when it's crowded. That's why we attend during off-leash hours - before 9am!)
And don't forget to pick up the poop.

2009-03-29T15:30:00.005-04:00

In honor of the opening of Citi Field on this March 29th, Mena revisits her tour of hot dog eating in New York City.

Click here to see her tour of some of the best tasting hot dogs in the city!

She is wondering how the dogs taste at the new stadium.
So if anyone had one at the college game between St. Johns and Georgetown, let her know!
Or, if you have one when the Mets play their first game in their new stadium Friday against the Red Sox, let Mena know!

Yankees fans- Mena also wants to know how the dogs are at the new Yankee Stadium. It also opens Friday, April 3rd with an exhibition game between the Yanks and Cubs.

2009-03-15T10:53:00.015-04:00

McMena revisits her NYC Irish Bar Tour

Literature is considered one of Ireland's greatest exports. It was the pubs where writers would congregate to meet publishers and other business contacts. So in honor of St. Patrick's Day, we celebrate the Irish pub. McMena takes us on tours of the East and West Sides.

An Irish pub in New York City? That's hard to find. A internet search reveals there are more than nine-thousand in the area! Mena can't make them all, but go to the Murph Guide - for all the Irish bars and activities in NYC- and then some.

Below are the first two stops on each of McMena's tours.

Click here for the full Upper East Side Tour.

Click here for the full Upper West Side Tour.

On the East Side:

1. Finnegan's Wake 1361 1st Ave At 73rd St I'm assuming they have good whiskey here. It was the cause of both the fall and resurrection of Finnegan. You can also order Bangers & Mash, Steak & Kidney Pie, Shepherd's Pie and Fish & Chips.

As we cross the park over the West Side, our first stop is a neighborhood favorite that unfortunately is expected to close it's doors in May in 09 because of a rent hike. However, the owner says he will open up somewhere.

1. Emerald Inn
205 Columbus Ave (between 69th and 70th)

The same Irish family has owned this locals' joint since it opened in 1943. In 2006 it won New York Magazine's listing for the best watering hole of the UWS.

2009-03-11T07:09:00.016-04:00

Willamena Loves her Fans!

She received this picture of Murphy from Fairfield, Connecticut checking her out!

Murphy and Willamena are now friends on Dogbook.

Murphy says he enjoys sleeping, watching tv, going to the beach, swimming and eating. Sounds like they would get along very well!

Willamena has long been a techie.
She originally began hooking up with friends and blogging via Dogster back in 2006.
She doesn't have her own twitter account yet, but she is known to log on as hrkovar and twit away.

2009-02-26T08:09:00.003-05:00

OBAMA DOG TO ARRIVE IN APRIL!

Willamena is excited to learn that the new first dog could be a rescue dog after all! When she hosted a poll here on this blog, overwhelming results showed that people wanted the Obamas to get a shelter or rescue dog.

Reports are out that First Lady Michelle Obama is talking, saying they looking for a rescue Portuguese Water Dog.

She says to look for the pooch to arrive in April.

2009-02-02T07:39:00.004-05:00

ANOTHER SIX WEEKS OF WINTER!

Again this year Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow. You know the tale- if he sees his shadow, we get six more weeks of winter. If he does not, then we get an early spring.

This is a picture from last year when Willamena saw her shadow.
However, I think Willamena knows something the groundhog doesn't. (I hope!)

This weekend, Willamena started shedding her winter coat. I hope it's because an early spring is on the way, not because the heat in my apartment is too high!

Either way, my floors and black suits will suffer.

2009-01-18T11:16:00.007-05:00

DOG DAY IN NYC

Willamena was hoping that when Barack Obama and his family arrived at the White House (their new home) from the inauguration parade today, the new promised DOG would be there waiting.

She barked her concern; then saw out the window it was snowing!

Watch as Willamena enjoys off-leash hours in Central Park.

(And again, Obama, yellow looks good on camera. I'd say your dog is going to be photographed once or twice.)
Click on the square below to play video.

The sign near the end of the video reads, "Let the beauty we love be what we do."

2008-12-26T17:33:00.001-05:00

Mena Goes Window Shopping in NYC

In case you missed all the holiday window dressing in Manhattan, Mena stopped to sniff out a few of her favorites.

Henri Bendel.

The display on 5th between 55 and 56 includes a purple puppy. It is a very regal, royal theme. A sign on the window says the dresses will be donated to the Make a Wish Foundation.

Bloomingdales
Lexington @ 59th

In celebration of Tony Bennett's holiday song CD, Bloomingdale's has decorated a window for each of his songs. To the left, Mena enjoys the open sleigh in "Jingle Bells."

Below are the windows "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and "Santa Claus is Coming To Town."

Barney's
Madison between 60th and 61st

Peace and Love! Barney's wants you to have a Hippie Holiday! Mena is posing as one of the "Ladies of the Counter Coulture."

The store is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the peace sign. Artwork by children of the East Harlem School is for sale. 100-percent of proceeds benefts the art program there. 212-876-8775 X304.

Bergdorf Goodman

5TH Avenue @ 58th

You can't start the new year without a calendar- so welcome the calendar girls of all seasons.

Here we see Winter and Autumn. Beware the men's store across the street; beasts and animals peer out in designer duds.

A few other window dressings you can still get out to see this holiday season include the snowflake light show at Saks Fifth Avenue. 5th between 49th and 50th. The display was inspired by the new book by Mike Reiss "A Flake Like Mike."

Lord & Taylor, 5th @ 38th & 39th, is dolled up in animated Yuletude themes, and the theme of the ever popular Macy's, 34th @ 6th & 7th, is "Yes, Willamena, there is a Santa Claus."

(Well, it may actually be Virginia, but that brings us to Mena's Christmas night sighting.)

Here, she saw someone's mommy kissing Santa Claus in Central Park! And this doesn't look like like Ms. Claus. Looks more like Mistress Claus!

2008-12-25T11:35:00.002-05:00

Christmas Morning In Central Park.
The unwrapping of presents comes a little later in the day!

2008-12-09T18:39:00.007-05:00

All Mena Wants for Christmas...

Mena loves opening gifts. But as you can see by her face in this picture from about three years ago, Mena was very upset by what she unwrapped. Clothes? Yuck! So while Mena loves her long walk in the park and cute collars, don't masquerade one as a "gift."

She much prefers anything that is edible or makes some sort of animal noise or squeaks when you chew on it's belly.

Mena learned how to open gifts back in 1998. The next Christmas, when I returned home from work, she had successfully opened all the presents under the tree. Now she has learned to wait.

Don't think she doesn't know that gift opening season is here. A few days before Thanksgiving, she was rummaging through her basket of stuffed squeaky toys, and pulled the one out from the bottom that she hasn't touched since she opened it last Christmas. When that one somehow disappeared the next day, probably under the bed or couch, she pulled out the only other holiday themed toy in her basket. SHE KNOWS. And is expecting to unwrap soon!

2008-11-27T18:29:00.013-05:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Willamena didn't make it out to the parade itself like in previous years, but she did make it for the big clean-up.

It was a feast for the beast today. There were bagels everywhere!

Check out this whole bagel with cream cheese on Broadway.

She did hear a woman on the street talk about the new Horton balloon: "It was funny, Horton's butt was so big, it blocked the sun for a minute and it got cold!"

2008-11-08T08:58:00.004-05:00

Obama Dog Update:
In his first media conference yesterday, President-elect Barack Obama spoke on getting a dog. He said it is a "major issue."

He said his preference is a shelter dog. (Yah! Willamena's advice must have crossed his desk.) Someone from Illinois did vote in her poll below.

However, since his oldest daughter has allergies, he said the criteria for his selection is that the dog be hypoallergenic.

With a shelter dog, you really never know what you are going to get, much less can be sure it's hypoallergenic.

Obama said "but obviously a lot of shelter dogs are mutts, like me."

So I guess we'll have to re-do the poll of hypoallergenic dogs.

2008-11-06T05:49:00.011-05:00

Presidential Pooch

Barack Obama promised his daughers a dog as soon as the election was over, win or lose!
Now that he is America's President-elect, the choice for the next White House dog can't be an easy one.
When one is chosen, you know there will be many cameras flashing in the animal's face.
Willamena thinks Barack Obama should take in consideration how well the family dog would photograph.
White doesn't always work on camera. The dog could look washed out, as while acts as a spotlight and reflects light.
Mena says a black dog wouldn't photograph that well, either, considering black absorbs all light, the dog just wouldn't "pop."

As for yellow, it works in any light! (Just look at Mena's pics.)

Willamena wants to point out she isn't "breed-ist," she just wants the Presidential Dog to look his/her best.
For this one, Mena endorses a yellow, female, mutt or rescue dog.

Cast your vote in the following poll:

Online Surveys & Market Research

2008-10-31T12:47:00.006-04:00

This Halloween, The MUTT-ADOR fights the Bear Market!
After visiting her Bowling Green Bull friend, Mena set out bear hunting in New York City.

2008-10-30T16:24:00.010-04:00

Willa in Philla!

Congrats Phillies fans on winning the World Series
for the first time in 28 years.

Looks like the Curse of William Penn was broken last night
as the Phillies took the Rays 4-3.

The curse was supposedly put in place when a skyscraper
built in 1987 exceeded the height of William Penn's statue on top of Philadelphia City Hall.
(That's the building behind the clothes pin.)

So maybe the Eagles will finally win a Super Bowl.

Again, Congrats!
However, as much as Mena enjoyed munching cheese-steaks,
she remains partial to the NYC "DOGS."
Check out her NYC tour of hot dog hot spots.

If you are headed to Philly on Halloween for the championship parade down Broad Street, here are some haunted spots to explore.

Now discover some of Willy's other Philly favorites.

View Larger Map

Of course "feeding the beast" is the number one priority, so we head to South Philly for the two famous must-eat-at places, Geno's (1219 S 9th St) and Pat's (1237 E Passyunk Ave)

Both of these cheese-steakeries are dog-friendly because all the seating is outdoors. What's better, they are across the street from each other; so you can grab one from each and compare. Both are open 24-hours.

You have to look closely at the picture to the left. Mena is standing as close as dogs are allowed to the Liberty Bell. Click to enlarge.
Enter at Market between 5th and 6th.

To find Ben Franklin's grave, take 5th Street north past Commerce to Arch. You'll find people still throw pennies on his grave. How is that saving?

Mena NOSE money. She sniffed out the United States Mint which is just about a half block block north of Franklin's grave.

And what is a visit to the City of Brotherly Love without stopping at Love Park?
If you wanted to walk from the Grave at Arch street, it's about 12 blocks west on Arch.

Robert Indiana is the artist responsible for LOVE.
Mena also enjoys NYC's own LOVE.

2008-10-22T09:31:00.021-04:00

The Willabeast Haunts Philadelphia!

Having already sniffed out some of New York City's Haunted hot-spots, (Click here to see the NYC tour) the Willabeast headed to Philly for some frightening fun in the City of Love.

View Larger Map
The tour begins where you might want to wind-down and warm-up with some hot spiced wine,
City Tavern.
1. City Tavern
138 S. 2nd Street

According to it's website, City Tavern was originally constructed in 1772 and George Washington, among other dignitaries, ate here. In 1948 Congress commissioned the historically accurate reconstruction of City Tavern.
Maybe that is what upset the ghosts that allegedly roam this historically themed restaurant.
Legend says a former waiter was the unintended victim of a bar room duel and to this day, he moves table settings. Drink enough spiced-wine, and you might see a specter in a bloodied white shirt fall to the floor before disappearing.

2.St. Peter's Church Cemetery
4th & Pine Streets

In a quaint residential area, this grave is considered the city's most haunted spot. There is a nice bench or two to relax and watch the locals as they walk their dogs through this pet-friendly spot.
One of the stories even has a ghost dog roaming this graveyard.
A horse-drawn carriage charging through the church and center of the graveyard is a reported sighting. Others say restless Native American chiefs roam the grounds.

3. Independence Hall
520 Chestnut between 5th and 6th streets

Ghosts are believed to inhabit this historical site where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and signed in 1776.
Check out this tourist's blog if you don't believe ghosts hover here.
You just might see Benjamin Franklin, who has been seen in and around Independence Hall looking at documents he helped write.
According to Mike Tait who runs the Spirit of '76 Ghost Tours, in the 1990's, security guards watching a monitor saw someone standing in a room on the second floor. A guard walked up into the room and reported on his walkie-talkie that no one was there. To his shock, he was told that the man appeared to be standing right in front of him.

4.Eastern State Penitentiary
20th Street & Fairmount Avenue

It's not even rumor this place is haunted. It's website states ghost sightings nearly as fact. Pained former prisoners are said to haunt this 172-year-old former state penitentiary.
Even a dog named "Pep" was sentenced to life here. Some say it was for killing the governor's wife's cat in 1924, other records show the dog was donated by the governor to up morale.
Haunted candlelight tours are given here.

The Willabeast enjoyed these haunts of Philly. Come back soon for her cheesesteak eating and monument tour she likes to call "Willa in Phila."

2008-10-11T07:20:00.009-04:00

MENA the MUTT- ADOR!

What is SCARIER than this past week on Wall Street?

So for Halloween, Willamena has chosen to go as a Muttador. (She is part mutt, part labrador- get it, mutt-ador?)

She is hanging out with the Bull at the entrance of Bowling Green Park because she wants to remind people to remain bullish in this tough time.

She actually has plans to hunt some BEARS this Halloween. So she will actually be Mena the bear fighting Mutt-ador.

The day Mena visited the bull, Friday, October 10th, 2009, The Dow Jones swung by more than a thousand points before closing down 128 at 8451.19, ending the worst week the Dow has even seen.

Which is why it wasn't an easy task getting near this bull. The real fighting was the crowd. The street was lined with TV News trucks and cameras. Tourists, maybe even New Yorkers, crowded around the bull to touch his parts for good luck.

2008-09-27T17:34:00.005-04:00

New York's Funniest Reporter

Willamena is a big fan of touring New York City, but sometimes can get aggravated by all the "strangers" trying to pet her.

She is excited that a joke about HER will be told in the upcoming fundraiser/comedy competition New York's Funniest Reporter by her very own roommate, Heather!

Mena is prepared to make sure you laugh at the joke! Not that you wouldn't anyway...

Here is a page put together by the producer of the even to promote Heather.

2008-09-10T13:31:00.007-04:00

Tired of the bar scene?

It's not often you meet someone as cute as this guy at your local watering hole.

Willamena has been invited to attend and write about a new event in New York City, Speed Dating: Doggy Style.

Described as a combination dog walk speed dating event, you date ten people as you walk with your dog.

2008-09-04T16:25:00.010-04:00

Drooling Over Football Season
Willamena is ready!

She loves the beer, wings and nachos that accompany the pigskin parties. Oh, she loves pig ears too.

She made a quick stop at the NFL Kickoff Party in Columbus Circle today.

However, since nothing says football like 90-degree New York City streets, she decided to check out the stage and scene from the 4th floor of the Time Warner Center.

From Central Park you could hear the entertainment; which tonight includes Usher and Keith Urban, but you couldn't see the stage. From inside the gates at Columbus Circle you can see and hear the event, plus stay and watch the game.

Tonight Willamena plans to watch from the comfort of her own spring coil doggie bed as the defending Super Bowl Champs, the New York Giants, take on long time rivals, the Washington Redskins.

There may even be pig skins.

If you click on Mena's picture and look closely, you can see all the people lined up along Central Park South for the Kickoff event.

2008-08-17T17:54:00.005-04:00

Call her Willa in Phila, Silly Willy in Philly or just Mena on Market, NYC Dog had fun sniffing out the sights of the City of Brotherly Love.
Check back soon for her tour!
She also found some haunted sites. Remember the Willabeast's Haunted NYC tour?
Soon she will show you some bone-chilling spots of Philadelphia.
And yes, she ate plenty of cheesesteak.

2008-07-30T06:24:00.004-04:00

Backyard Birthday Bash
Willamena's backyard, Central Park, is celebrating the 150th anniversary of it's design this year.

Instead of a bouquet of helium balloons --that would only get stuck up in the trees anyway-- the Central Park Conservancy and City Parks & Rec joined with AeroBalloon to offer rides in this large helium-filled balloon through August 22nd.

Visitors go up, up -- up 30 stories -- but not away. The balloon is tethered.

See more pictures here.

Willamena hasn't gone up- she prefers to stay grounded. Actually, she's always trying to get at the core of the park. She'd dig her way that direction if she had her way.

You can go skyward everyday 10am to 10pm until August 22nd. The location is Cherry Hill, on 72nd street. It costs 25-dollars for adults and $17.50 children.

2008-07-27T16:47:00.003-04:00

2008-07-18T17:35:00.001-04:00

Willamena as Bat Mena in The Dark Dog.

In honor of the opening of The Dark Knight, Bat Mena explores some of her favorite caves in Central Park.

But wouldn't you know it, she finds green slime in her watering hole, and now must be a news hound to find out what joker is responsible.

The full story of The Dark Dog is COMING SOON.....

2008-07-13T17:16:00.004-04:00

VIEW FROM THE BEDROOM WINDOW
The new Mino was supposed to be used as a collar cam today, but instead, it caught some flames as Willamena's apartment was starting to fill with smoke.

Outside people gathered to watch as numerous crews fought this apartment fire.

Back inside the apartment, you can see firemen putting out hotspots.

And ouch. Look at his poor flooded terrace.

2008-07-11T15:28:00.006-04:00

Okay, so a girl and her dog have to practice when it comes to learning new equipment.
Mena's new Mino is smaller than my Blackberry. It weighs less than a large Milkbone. You Can imagine it's a little different to shoot with than the 30-pound monsters I've carried on my shoulder.
So last video we were leaving Central Park to sit in Alternate side parking. It was too hot to sit in the car, so we sat on a stoop near our car.
Here is our little video. (Soon these will be all edited and polished, so enjoy these rough cuts while you can!)

2008-07-11T13:19:00.004-04:00

MENA's New MINO!
Willamena is introduced to the new Flip Mino phone. As you watch this video, you'll see we're just getting our paws adjusted to the features. Coming soon- the Mena Mino Collar Cam. Off-leash hours will never be the same.

2008-07-02T11:41:00.002-04:00

DOG DAYS OF SUMMER or X-treme Mena Season? July 3 - August 11

Willamena loves getting an extra walk at night because it isn't dark yet. She also likes hanging out in Central Park with a blanket and picnic during free concerts.

However, she does not fancy the hot sidewalks. When it comes to the weather, Willamena prefers mild spring or fall days; the days she gets to run and play in the park for hours without dehydrating or snot-sicles forming in our noses. Yet possibly her favorite time of year is snow-digging season.

But since this is the time of year that The Dog Star, Sirius, shines the brightest, we get Dog Days, which begin July 3rd and end August 11th.

The Dog Star is visible with the rising Sun at this time of year. Ancients associated the bright star with the hot weather during the time. Sirius is the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major (Greater Dog).

If there was an XM star, and it happened to shine during either flower blooming season or snow shoveling, Mena would try to promote X-treme Mena season.

2008-06-07T09:14:00.032-04:00

The Sex and the City Movie has more "doggy style" than you might expect.

Charlotte adds on to her family, plus another of the girls adopts a pooch.

Even Mr. Big is compared to a dog when Carrie introduces him as her boyfriend. He says he is too old for that, she says, okay, "man-friend."

Big replies that Man-friend sounds like a dog.

"If the shoe fits" snarks Carrie.

While the girls steam things up on screen, Willamena has compiled some of her favorite "cool" places and accessories.

FOR A DRINK:
Carrie has her cosmos.
However, Willamena always seems to spill out of those top heavy martini glasses. She much prefers the pint-sized plastic cups she can chew on after finishing up a beer. Here she is enjoying a cool one at the Sheep Meadow Cafe in Central Park. She also recommends the West 79th Street Boat Basin Cafe.
Here at the Barking Dog on York and 77th she enjoys sitting outside and lapping up free offerings from the "dog bar."
Better check the line before heading for a burger or frozen treat at Shake Shack. But don't mind the wait. The website suggests meeting a new friend on the "pick up line."

TO "STAY":

In the series Samantha moved into the Meatpacking district and made it cool. In the movie, the friends continue to clank their heels along the cobblestone streets in the area for drinks. The BIG rehearsal dinner was held at Buddakan. The movie ended with a glamour shot along 9th Avenue, with a glimpse of Hotel Gansevoort. (Pet friendly!) The hotel is also offering a special Sex and the City package deal.

Visitors to NYC can get a glimpse of the spots made hot by the girls on the Sex a nd the City On Location Tour.

TO WRITE:

Carrie writes and checks her email on her MacBook Pro.

(Just like the one Willamena uses!)

Since Carrie refused to borrow Samantha's IPhone, saying she hasn't figured those out yet, Miss Bradshaw could probably use a free lesson or two offered at the Apple stores.

No doubt she could benefit from the workshops offered at all four of the city's stores.

TO GET HITCHED (OR NOT):

Just across from the Apple store on 5th Avenue is The Plaza. In the series, Carrie dreamed of a Plaza wedding. But then she saw Mr. Big with his new bride, Natasha there. In the movie, Carrie decides a

wedding at the Library by Bryant Park would be perfect.

Willamena likes the Plaza, especially it's view of Central Park. That is where she chases tail during off leash hours from 9pm to 9am.

TO EAT:

"It was a little past 10 and I was dressed to the nines at Brasserie 81/2" is a Carrie line from the series.

This orange statue is actually a 9, marking 9 West 57th street, which is the address for Brasserie 81/2.

In the movie, Charlotte almost gets to enjoy a meal at Lumi on Lexington Avenue. Click here for pictures from the movie and the menu!

TO PAMPER:

Willamena has booties she calls her Manolo Pawniks. They keep her sensitive paws warm in the winter and protected from the hot sidewalk in the summer.

She also loves the scent of Sexy Beast. It's a New York City line of luxury dog grooming products. (Mena has a photo shoot planned with the products- check back soon!)

2008-05-30T07:13:00.001-04:00

Life is HOT in the city!

As people flock to theaters to see the movie Sex and the City, Willamena is taking you around NYC to show you how she lives it up.

CHECK BACK SOON for Mena's tour- PLUS vote on whether your dog is a Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte, Miranda or MUTT- a mix of them all!

Also, find out about Willamena's Manolo Pawniks, doggie cosmos and where she gets tail!

2008-05-04T14:10:00.009-04:00

Cinco de MENA (x2)

In honor of the 5th of May, and Willamena having just turned ten, we continue the celebration with Cinco de Mena (x2.)

The Menu for Mena consisted of pulled pork, (actually a dried pork dog treat from the Texas company Merrick) and Mena-Colladas!

Mena also loves left-over take out from Mexican restaurants, especially the chips. She rarely gets a doggie bag, though. Not just because its not really good for her, but also because there usually isn't any food left!

For people who find themselves in Manhattan looking for a margarita or Mexican food, don't listen to the pundits! There are plenty of delicious places to fiesta in NYC.

Starting with a new favorite this year,
Mole.

Mole is on Allen Street just off of East Houston. The restaurant is family owned. The wife is from Mexico City. She created the chipotle pork tacos at her other restaurant, Taco Taco on the Upper East Side on Second Avenue near 90th.

1. Mexican Radio.
19 Cleveland Place

For those looking for stuffed jalapenos hotter than you'll find in Texas, this is your place. They aren't on the menu, you have to ask for them. The margaritas are strong; they also offer a jalapeno marg.

2. Santa Fe.

73 W 71st St, Btwn Columbus Ave & CPW

This is more southwestern cuisine than Mexican, but the Margaritas and salsa can't be beat. After just two, you'll be ready for a siesta.

3. Los Dados.
73 Gansevoort St at Washington St

A hot spot in the Meatpacking district. Mexican for when you need to feel trendy.

4. Baby Bo's Cantina
627 2nd Ave. Btwn 34th and 35th

From what I remember, the margaritas and salsa are good.

5. Cafe Frida
368 Columbus Ave, Btwn 77th & 78th St
This isn't a place where you get chips and salsa when you sit down. You have to order them. But the tacos you roll yourself are worth the sacrifice.

6. Diablo Royale.
189 W 10th St, Btwn W 4th & Bleecker St
The steak soft tacos are devilishly delicious. Beware this place is usually packed at night. The keeper of Otis, Willamena's boyfriend, had her first margarita ever here!

7. El Rey del Sol
232 W 14th St, Btwn 7th & 8th Ave
Fresh Fruit margaritas are great. Try the grapefruit margs. Beware the tamales. They are vegetarian- all corn meal!

8. Zocalo.
Three locations. But I've only eaten at the one at Grand Central Terminal.
Headed to Connecticut? Ask for a margarita on the rocks to go.

9. Tehuitzingo
695 10th Ave(between 47th St & 48th St)
(212) 397-5956
This is the place to find your family-made tacos. No pretension, and very little English.

2008-04-27T18:54:00.002-04:00

The plush cake sings "Happy Birthday To You" when Mena bites down on the sensor. She only likes toys that sing or make some kind of noise. A squeaky center, however, is not enough. If it is a stuffed bear, then it better growl like a bear. Or it sits untouched.
My shoes never made noise! Why was she so obsessed as a puppy?
I guess that was puppy-dom. Those days are long gone as Mena turns 10! We've been celebrating all month. Actually, the celebration got started late, so we're extending the fun into the 5th of May. Cinco de Mena. X 2.
We'll see if she will wear the sombrero.
However, I'm told like a typical kid, she doesn't like her new coil bed. She loves getting on mine, so ???
She always ends up on her old bed. I know, I need to get rid of it, and put it in the back of my car where she sits like I planned.

2008-04-24T08:58:00.005-04:00

In celebration of Willamena's 10th birthday, here are some puppy pictures.

2008-04-05T21:47:00.004-04:00

Mena Turns 10!

2008-02-27T06:32:00.006-05:00

Top O' the Morning!

People keep asking what Willamena is doing for St. Patrick's Day.

If you remember, she celebrated last year with tours of Irish Bars on the Upper East and Upper West Sides of Manhattan. (I'm sure she left some out, send me the ones you like!)

Since St. Patrick's Day falls during Holy Week this year, maybe McMena will tour New York City churches. As you can see, she already made a stop at Saint Patrick's Cathedral.

New York City is still planning on having it's parade as usual on St. Patrick's Day, March 17tth. But because of Holy Week, Ireland's bishops have shifted the feast day to Saturday, March 15.

Here is how other areas are reacting to an early Holy Week and Easter.

2008-02-03T10:30:00.000-05:00

The First Day of Six More Weeks of Winter.

Whether the ground hog saw his shadow yesterday or not, we still have to wait until March 20th for Spring to begin. Groundhog day also just happens to mark the half-way point of Winter. People around the world celebrate the day as Candlemas.

For those wanting spring-like weather to consume our last half of winter, too bad Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow.

However, Staten Island Chuck and Chuckles in Manchester, Connecticut did not see their shadows.

Because I'm not looking forward to six weeks of cold and snow, I'd love to think that these two rodents closer to me than Phil, are correct, except, that the rat dog herself, SAW her shadow.

We were walking west on 79th street just out of Central Park, and there is no question: Six More Weeks of Winter.

2008-01-09T22:16:00.000-05:00

FOUND: BUTTON. Black. Please contact...

New York City. Home of "be careful with your wallet. Wear it around your neck on a cord and tuck it in your shirt so no one will steal it."
The place where the mentality is "each one for himself."
"If you can make it here you can make it anywhere."
I just have to say that New York City isn't living up to it's billing lately.

I enter into testimony a button. Yes. A button. This faux-leather covered, less than an inch, black button. It fell off my long overcoat a few days ago. When I got home and realized it was gone I was upset. UGH! I lost a button!
It was the bottom button and I was wearing the coat without it. And with the past two days warm temperatures, I didn't even wear the coat yesterday. So basically I had forgotten about my tragic loss.
UNTIL TODAY WHEN I FOUND IT HANGING ON THE GATE OF A DOG PARK FOR ME. My button. It must have fallen off my coat in the dog park. Someone saw it in the gravel-ish wet-ish litter-box-ish terrain and thought "A button! Someone lost this and will be looking for it!"

When you lose a button you immediately deal with the fact it is gone. Unless you have saved the extra button that came with it upon purchase, you are just without a matching replacement button. But not in New York City. Seems living here if you lose a button, someone will find it and place it in one of the free doggie poop bags and tie it to the gate of the dog park for you to find and bring to the corner dry cleaner to sew back on.

A button.

And I surprised when my drivers license, credit card and business card that all fell out of my pocket while walking along Central Park South on THANKSGIVING following the parade were returned to me. The lady that found them ended up seeing me on the street looking for them nearly an hour after they were lost and yelled out, "Heather?"

But a button? I mean, I am very appreciative, I just think it is hysterical! I finally have good luck, and it's wasted on finding a button?

New York City come on!

2007-12-31T15:58:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year from Times Square in New York City.

The sun was shining bright just after noon when people were already gathered and camped out in Times Square. To keep Mena from squinting in her annual New Year's Eve pose, she needed sunglasses.
She went earlier in the day last year. Click here to see last year's NYE.

2007-12-31T15:52:00.001-05:00

More New York City Holiday Fun
After a stop at the Plaza on 5th Avenue, who can resist a vist to Tiffany's a few blocks away along 5th? Willamena always seems to find her way right to the front entrance, so we call it Sniffany's.

2007-12-30T19:56:00.000-05:00

NYC Holiday lights - just a few.

For people who love the consumerism of the holidays, these blue and red lights adorn the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle. They constantly change colors, one segment of each star at a time.

It is well known that holiday shopping builds a hunger for borscht.

What better place than the Russian Tea Room to fill that craving?

Plus looks like you could even get your shot for next year's Christmas card out of the way. (Since everyone else goes to Rockefeller. Pooey.)

Who doesn't love the legs of the Rockettes?

The show outside and around Radio City is almost as festive as the show.

Across the street, red ornaments are stacked in a fountain.

Less than a block away, a toy train lights up 6th Avenue.

And of course, every year, tall nutcrackers line the UBS building.

2007-12-29T15:33:00.000-05:00

WILLAMENA WANTS IN THE ACTION AS A FILM CREW PREPARES A SCENE ON THE UPPER WEST SIDE.

Remember when I went on vacation and Willamena had her headshots done by her babysitter? Well, I should have had one with me this morning as I had to pull Mena away from this set.

But even my tugs weren't successful. You'd think that along with setting the scrims and adjusting the lighting for the driver side of this Toyota Matrix, they were grilling bacon.

Mena even got a pat on the head from one of the gaffers. I said, "she wants to be in it." He responded, "she should be!" Even one the guys taping an interview with someone working on this set, turned the camera on Mena's persistance to stay and watch.

Then Mena saw that someone was getting in the truck that was going to pull the Matrix along Broadway for the shoot. She was about to jump in.

I was told they were shooting for a movie called "Three Girls."

2007-12-29T11:50:00.000-05:00

ROCKEFELLER GRINCHES!

Now that Willamena is back in New York City from her white Christmas New Hampshire visit, she wants her typical NYC Holiday pics.
However, security is the grinch this year.
The security guard in this picture was on his way over to say get away, "no dogs." She didn't understand considering this area is a public sidewalk.
She came to this side because she had just been chased away by another security guard by the angels.
That is where the people from NBC take pictures at no charge. You are given a slip with a website and number. You can view your pictures on line and order if you wish. There isn't any pressure. It's a great holiday shot. BUT NO! I asked if that was a new policy, the guard said dogs have never been allowed. Prior today, it has never been an issue. Look at last year's photo. It was taken by a tourist offering to help us out. There was security everywhere, but we weren't told to leave.
Maybe it's for the best. Because of the embarrassing exile, Mena now wants to find unusual places to take NYC Holiday pics. She promises to have them posted before the New Year.

2007-12-27T10:29:00.000-05:00

ALL MENA WANTED FOR CHRISTMAS WAS A MINI-ME-na.

Actually I just wanted a picture of the two together, possibly with their paws up to their lip.

But with all the food and holiday treats around, Willamena didn't want anything to do with another dog.

Instead, she spent the day guarding the tree, anxiously awaiting the moment she would get to finally rip into her gifts.

Which, as you can see, she did a good job of as soon as Christmas morning arrived.

She was even transformed into Santa-Paws.

Unwrapping gifts wasn't the only activity the holiday hound jumped into.

She was thrilled to run down this hill right next to the sledders.

She slept well that night, with plenty of time for sugar-plum kitties to dance in her head.

Hope you're having a howling happy holiday!

2007-11-01T11:04:00.000-04:00

Supermena No. 1
Click comic to enlarge

2007-10-30T22:31:00.000-04:00

This Halloween:

"Supermena in Metropolis."

The newshound is a direct descendent of Krypto, Superman's dog from Krypton.

She was at work at the Daily Planet when duty called.

A tourist was about to go Uptown instead of Downtown on the 1 at Columbus Circle.

She rushed back to meet deadline, but was still caught on cam by Jimmy Olson.

It isn't easy finding a phonebooth in Metropolis anymore. Not like back in the days of 1950s Marvel.
Another task on this all hallows eve, to wiggle some walk room between strollers on the sidewalk.

Before heading back to The Fortress of Solitude, Supermena meets up with Supergirl.
TO BE CONTINUED...

2007-10-19T07:21:00.000-04:00

Willamena the newshound takes off her Clark Kent glasses, abandons her notepad and leaves her camera in the apartment this Halloween.

Instead, she will fly high over Metropolis to reveal her true identity:

SUPERMENA!

I guess I get to be Lois Lane.

2007-08-18T08:29:00.001-04:00

TOUR NEW YORK CITY WITH ME.

It's summer in New York City, and the sidewalks have been hot. Willamena has been taking a little break from her tours lately because night-time pictures don't come out as well.

But once again, she promises she is working on two for you. Here you see where she will probably begin her Seinfeld tour. After this shoot, she ordered the "big salad."

The tour that is being expedited is her "beatnik" tour. It will be in celebration of 50-years in print for Jack Kerouac's "On the Road."

While you wait, please re-visit Mena's prior tours of New York City.

As a Met and Yankess fan, she took you to places to eat hot dogs at the beginning of baseball season.

http://heather-kovar.blogspot.com/2007/04/play-ball-eat-dogs-willamenas-new-york.html

In March, she celebrated St. Patrick's Day with tours of both Upper West Side haunts and Upper East Side Irish hangouts.

Also be sure to check out the Willabeast's Haunted Tour.

2007-08-11T22:22:00.000-04:00

The Willabeastie had a great time at the Beastie Boys concert this past week.