Today was a nice warm, Spring day out here on Long Island. When I was in NYC last weekend I walked by a few hot dog salesmen both near Central Park and some of the crosstown streets. On the block that I grew up on downtown, we had a neighborhood icon "Mack" the hot dog man. For many years good old Mack pushed his hot dog stand on the neighborhood corner and sold the best hot dogs ever. He always got the best and sold us the best. He could whip you up a hot dog of your choice toppings in a matter seconds. His drinks were also always ice cold. Back then a hot dog and drink would cost you a $1.25. Last Saturday I spent $5.00 for a hot dog and bottled water at Central Park West. It was a good dog too. Reminded me of Mr. Mack, who has long since vanished from his famous corner in my old neighborhood.
In addition to his great hot dogs ice cold drinks and the speed in which he could serve you, was his amazing ability to render you the proper change from his change dispenser/coin holder in a matter of split seconds without even looking down to count.
What would New York be without its hot dog salesmen? I don't know. But, I do know that they sure give it something more than just "hot dogs". They give it a sidewalk, entrepreneurial spirit, as well as a closeness and connection with different ethnic and socio-economic factions in the city. We all pay the same price for that same hot dog no matter if you're rich, working class or poor, or black or white. Hot dog stands are like your neighborhood water coolers. You can learn a lot about what's going on in your neighborhood from the hot dog man. It's a beautiful thing.
No comments:
Post a Comment