Behemoth of the Chelsea: RIP Johnny 1997-2008

Sadly, Johnny, our four-footed friend and neighbor at the Chelsea Hotel passed away yesterday.  Johnny, who, in true Chelsea gender-bending fashion, was a female. She was 11 years-old, ancient for a Newfoundland.  Johnny was a true Chelsea institution, and we will miss her intoxicating aroma in the elevator, as well as her immovable carpet-like presence in the middle of the lobby.  May we all meet Johnny again someday, in that great multi-species bohemian flophouse in the sky.  Neighbors have been informally stopping by Willem's apartment to express their sympathy. (The photo is from Johnny's birthday celebration earlier this year, and she says she did not  vomit up that cheesecake!)