The Queen visits Virginia; all sorts of shock and awe ensues. What makes her third visit to the U.S. significant is the changes and interchanges between America and Britain. Not crushing domination on either part, but a gradual blending as the Mother Country’s stewing multicultural melting pot still longs for the idyllic country town featured in Hot Fuzz (seen with SSW last weekend). On the other hand, Brit humor makes a comeback via the comedy of Dave Eggers (McSweeney’s) and John Hodgman (Mr. PC in the Mac commercials). The straight-laced and stiff-upper-lipped throwbacks to 21st Century Victorian mores make a distinctly American version; what makes it not dry is the sense of discovery, wonder and ultimately charity.
Eggers started a non-profit group called 826 that seeks to teach young people the wonder of creative and expository writing. The New York branch, 826 NYC, is based in Brooklyn, hidden behind their front store, the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co. (and yes this is a real storefront – I’m not making this up). Sales from their crime-fighting store help fund tutoring for Brooklyn elementary and high school students. Check them out at 372 Fifth Avenue, Brooklyn.
For the complete British experience, visit the Park Slope ChipShop across the street at 383 Fifth Avenue for their fish and chips, and fried just about everything (including Twinkies and various candy bars). Fried mac and cheese balls are awesome, and fried pizza is just something you have to try.