October 20, 2009 --

The hardest part, I think, was getting used to the idea that the automatic reflex of reaching for the switch on entering the apartment would not, repeat not, there upon bring light. Reaching for the fridge -- recalling it was inoperative and empty -- was somewhat less difficult to get accustomed to.

Without electricity and phone service, I simply take my laptop to the Spuyten Duyvil branch of the New York Public Library or use one of the computers at this branch (whose staff is just super) or to the Apple store on Fifth Avenue, or a Barnes & Noble or Borders outlet

At night, reading can be by candlelight or flashlight or with light from the outside hallway, shining through the open door to the apartment. Have even gotten used to walking without stumbling, through the apartment at night. And have learned how relaxing a bath can be by candlelight, flashlight -- or no light at all.

Main drawback with loss of phone service: cannot be reached by phone. Main plus with loss of phone service: cannot be reached by phone.

The phone service was cut off about a week after I went to the Verizon headquarters with a note and some of my photos for Ivan Seidenberg. Previously I had been impressed with his humble origins and thought he had held onto the spirit of those origins. Oh well, hope he liked my photos of Yankee Stadium I.

Perhaps it is my Public Advocate candidacy that has stiffened my back a bit. That candidacy is dedicated to the memory of Shana -- and, I do believe, looked upon with favor by our Founding Fathers.

To crawl, now, to Con Ed and Verizon, would, I know, disappoint Shana and the Founding Fathers.

I simply cannot do that. Con Ed and Verizon know, or should know, that I will discuss renewed service AFTER I give consumer-sensitivity talks to their staffs.

If they continue to be unresponsive.... LPR clicksters around the world will, with G-d's help, hear of it.