Bocce Revelers Undeterred by Double Disasters

If I am at a party, I want to be at the party. Too many photographers use the camera to avoid participating in things. They become professional observers.               –Robert Mapplethorpe

I broke out of my typical photographer’s mode and fully participated in Friday night’s, The Running of the BOCCE Balls party. “Bung-O!” — it was a blast! — to quote Ernest Hemingway and Falconer’s invitation. With amazing rum punch, French martinis, and all kinds of wine, as well as a few first timers, including my friends Clay and Will, and Falconer’s rock star friends from NutraIngredients-USA, many of the BOCCE regulars came early to kick the evening off with an intimate, welcoming feel. While very little bocce was played, the sunset was as delightful as the perfect weather, and many wore red scarves to commemorate the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain which also took place while we were celebrating on the rooftop.

The party took on a DIY tone later on, testing the indomitable spirit of the revelers, after a spilled Sangria fried the stereo system, and Falconer, Sid, and Jack, in full McGuyver mode, had to configure a whole new system before non-a capella music was restored. A flash-mob singing Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” then ensued, led by BenByrd, Will and Sid, and all guests joining in at various points.

And then came the night’s second emergency: after the third container of punch was drained, as well as many bottles of wine, Falconer’s toilet broke. His neighbor, Leo, was kind enough to give party guests the tour of his apartment, including introductions to his dog, Linus, and use of his bathroom. In the meantime, Sid dazzled the crowd with his handyman skills, and restored the bathroom in 32B to full functionality. To top off the night, several people donned a horse head mask, leaned back and with a mighty whinny, cracked up the crowd. Who knew that a horse and a photographer who barely touched her camera the whole evening could have so much fun? First time bocce-goer Jes Chosid said it all, “When the speakers get blown out, a toilet breaks, and a group singing bohemian rhapsody with chorus erupts, it’s a good party.” Thank you once again, Falconer and Val, for your generosity and general awesomeness. We’ll be passing a hat at the next BOCCE in the AFTERNOON to help you get a new sound system. I promise.