Willie the Moose on Amsterdam, Babul the Art Framer, NY PopsUp and Curtains Up NYC

So much news today! There's a new moose in town...His name is Willie and can be found at the corner of West 81st and Amsterdam Avenue. Babul is a long-time art framer on Columbus Avenue, and our government officials announce new arts initiatives which include pop-up performances and getting Broadway back soon.

Today's show is sponsored by Utopia Diner, open from 9AM to 9PM every day.  Their outdoor seating is now heated and has decorative lights. Located at West 72nd Street and Amsterdam Avenue.

This Just in From the Mayor:
-- Mayor Bill De Blasio announces the city's newest effort, CURTAINS UP NYC, to bring back live performances and to support the arts.
-- At the above link, folks can apply for the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant as well.

-- Governor Andrew Cuomo announces his state-wide initiative, NY PopsUp. He says that starting on February 20th, 300-plus pop-up arts events across the state in 100 days of performances. Those who have signed on include: Hugh Jackman, Rene Fleming, Q-Tip, Sara Jessica Parker, Mandy Patinkin, Chris Rock.

Here’s What’s Cooking in Restaurant News:

-- There's a moose, Willie, atop the outdoor seating hut at the new Spaghetti Tavern on Amsterdam and West 81st. Check our pic of him on our Instagram feed: @uws_cornertalk.
-- Starbucks on West 73rd, West 93rd, West 110th have all closed.
-- Vanesa's Dumplings on Amsterdam and West 82nd Street is open. They were quite busy on Super Bowl Sunday.
-- Silver Moon Bakery will have moon cakes and longetivity cookies on Wednesday in time for Lunar New Year.

Neighborhood Safety/Crime Tip
Contributors Harry Leff shares an important consideration (based on a recent experience) when witnessing a crime: call the police. No, really. Call in real time so the NYPD can respond and hopefully catch wrong-doers. Thank you, Harry!

Shout-Outs
- You ALL! Thank you for the 5-star reviews!
- Listener Emily Altschul-Miller

UWS Corner Talk Profile:
Babul, owner of Central Art Gallery 281B Columbus Avenue. (212) 496-5455.

Local School and Family News:
- Mayor Bill De Blasio says middle schools will reopen on February 25th, and teachers will report back on February 24th. He says, that the city's schools are the “safest places in NYC, that’s why we know it’s time to bring back our middle school students, and parents are excited about it.”

Notable Fliers on Corner Street Lamp Posts:
Creative Juices At-Home Activity Classes by Lindsey Steinert. Ages 5 to 13.

Favor:
Please do share the show with at least two -- or three -- other neighbors and friends. And, please do give the show a 5-star rating in your podcast app if you feel it deserves it.

Show Sponsor:
This could be YOU, too! Click HERE.
Today's sponsor is Utopia Diner at 267 Amsterdam Ave at West 72nd Street. Get your breakfast platter or waffles -- YUM! (212) 873-6233 or on Seamless.

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