The State of Things

We examine the state of things. The state of civility in New York City. A heroin user's (and her brother's) state of mind. And the state of grace that continues to prevail in Central Park, as it celebrates its 150th birthday. Also, Jonathan Katz shares some little-known melodies from his days as leader of the group "Katz and Jammers."





Central Park Trilogy


I. In the Ramble: Brad Klein ponders the mostly harmonious coexistence of two different types of pleasure seekers who share a secluded corner of the park.

II. At Bethesda Fountain: Tony Kushner drew inspiration for his Pulitzer Prize-winning play, Angels in America, in part from the Angel of Waters statue that stands over a fountain in Central Park. Kushner re-visits the statue, and the idea of statues, in a fountain-side chat with Dean Olsher.

III. A Walk in the Park: ... for your ears only. Produced by Pejk Malinovski.




Giving Thanks

Next Big Thing producer Curtis Fox is not one to lavish praise on his fellow citizens. But ever since an over-ambitious jump shot landed him on crutches, he's been marveling at how gracious many New Yorkers are.



Slowed to a Halt

Throughout the spring and summer, we've been getting progress reports from thru-hiker Tom "Slowpoke" Roberson as he makes his way along the Appalachian Trail. Here's the latest installment, with a cameo from his lovely wife Rilla. Produced by Jill Krauss.



Jamming with Katz

You've probably heard of comedian Jonathan Katz. You may have even heard of talk radio host Jonathan Katz. But what about singer-songwriter Jonathan Katz? He shares the highpoints and pitfalls of his musical career with Dean. Produced by Amanda Aronczyk.



New York State of Mind

Imagine asking a rock star to let you join him on stage to sing a number. Tom Kitt asked. Billy Joel said yes. And Tom got it all on tape. Produced by Michael Kavanagh and Angela Uherbelau.



Brain Space Travel

Take a seat in the UFO-like capsule, strap on some electrodes and enjoy the light show on the walls. It's Japanese artist Mariko Mori's installation, now open for exploration in an atrium in midtown Manhattan. Recorded by Michael Raphael.



My Sister's Keeper

Diego has little in common with his sister Daisy — she's extroverted, while he's introverted. She lives at home in a rough neighborhood of San Diego, while he mostly stays away. And Daisy is a heroin addict. Which leaves Diego trying to figure out what to do about Daisy. They shared their story with Next Big Thing contributor Sara Harris.



My President's Keeper

A few sociologist/political analyst-types contend that President Bush runs the country in the manner of a "dry drunk" — someone who has given up drinking, but continues to exhibit certain irrational and obsessive behaviors. If the diagnosis is correct, Dean wonders what that means for the rest of us?

WNYC archives id: 33724