In the history of English language word combination, I’m not certain the word “art” has ever preceded “barge.” But it does–at least in Amagansett, New York, where a World War I barge was tugged to Napeague Harbor a half century ago and dubbed “The Art Barge,” docked ever since to offer exhibits and classes. It’s a strange combination: a munitions transporter meets stretched canvas meets barnacles. The setting, though, inspires and for visitors, it’s always been a haven from pricey stores and consumer culture in the area–though it does have a gift shop. Even if you can pass up a 20 buck Art Barge t-shirt, anyone in the area today should stop by for a “fun raiser,” as they term it, to benefit children’s art education there. The Art Barge sits, slightly cockeyed, four miles east of downtown Amagansett. Going toward Montauk on Route 27, make a left on Napeague Meadow Road, then cross the railroad tracks. That’s right: even in the swanky Hamptons, there is another side of the tracks, only this is probably the right side.
Archive for the ‘Business’ Category
Made Off With the Money
Monday, June 29th, 2009
Bernie Madoff is, as I write, being sentenced and perhaps he can be given extra time for dumb coincidence. His name (Madoff) is a remarkable play on his crime (He made off with the money.) But to me, the ballad of Bernie Madoff shows us yet again how the scale of the lie helps the liar. As a former stock broker, I have a perverse respect for what Madoff managed. Now don’t get me wrong: his crimes were odious and unforgivable and he deserves he life in prison, if not more. It is, however, the skill behind the criminal act that is beguiling. As a stock broker, I used to sell conservative stocks like IBM to people. They were accessible and reliable companies, which by and large paid steady dividends. And it was hard. It is quite a hill to climb to part people from their money, even in wholly legitimate (not to mention comparative small scale) ways. But to steal their money outright on nothing but promises and guile? It is no coincidence that Madoff is, if nothing else, a rarity. Maybe, though, it shows us what history has taught before: the bigger the lie, the easier it is to tell. And, in the end, the more likely people are to believe.