#Speaker Rental in New York city

[c-e-d-dreamer]

Top Shelf Love: Chapter One

A/N: yeah, yeah, I know! This is super exposition-y, but we have to set it all up, besties! I promise Cassian and Nesta actually interact again in the next chapter 🫡 Also, for anyone who's nerdy like me, the Athletic has a really great article about just how complicated things get when a player gets traded. It's a fun read!

Read on AO3 // Chapter Masterlist // Previous Part // Next Part

Cassian

Cassian groans, tossing his phone on the coffee table, the device skittering across the wood without a care. He drops his head against the back of the sofa, digging his hands into his hair and dragging his fingers against the curly strands. He still can’t quite wrap his mind around it, and he half wonders if he’s imagining this entire phone call, but the tinny voice continues through the speaker even if he’s no longer listening.

Seattle.

He got traded to the Seattle Kraken.

The words continue to crash and echo in his mind, even as his agent goes through the usual spiel when trades happen. Expect a call from the coach, maybe even a few players will reach out once the news breaks. The Kraken’s director of team services will reach out with the finer details for a smooth transition. Reminders of the CBA mandates. Meetings with the trainers, the equipment team, and the coaching staff to look forward to. Practice schedule. It’s like information overload, a hurricane swirling through his head with hundred mile per hour winds.

It doesn’t help that his phone has already started to vibrate against the table, almost excessively. With a quiet huff that thankfully his agent doesn’t pick up on, already plowing forward into the exciting potential for re-signing with Seattle, Cassian snatches his phone back up. He minimizes the call screen and looks at his notifications. Of course. The news has already broken on Twitter. Damn ‘insiders.’

“Any questions for me, Cassian? Anything I can do for you?”

Cassian has to shake his head, clearing his still spiraling thoughts, before he finds his voice. “All good, Eris. That’s how the off season goes, right?”

Eris is quiet for a moment. “I’ll send a car to take you to the airport. A nicer one than the team would send.”

With that, the line clicks, and Cassian tosses his phone away again, this time face down. He doesn’t even want to look at what’s being said, at the speculation. Sure, the Rangers hadn’t had the best season, the ending more heartbreak than anything else. Sure, he only has one year left on his contract. Sure, the front office wants draft picks to help build up the farm system with young blood.

But still, Cassian never expected this. Never expected this was how his time with the team would end. Never expected this was how his time in New York City would end.

Sighing softly, he glances around his apartment. The high ceilings, the modern, open kitchen, the tall windows and the amazing skyline view that the thirty-first floor offers. He really did love this place, a far cry from the streets he’d grown up on, and a reminder of how far he'd come from those very streets. He supposes he’ll have to sell it now. Is it worth keeping just for the off season?

The sound of Cassian’s phone ringing is loud in his otherwise quiet apartment. It seems to echo off the walls as though taunting him. He’s half tempted to ignore it all together, but despite the unknown number displayed on the screen when he checks, the location is listed as Seattle. Not the best first impression to send his new team to voicemail. Another sigh and Cassian squares his shoulders, sliding his thumb across the screen to answer.

The man on the other end of the line introduces himself and exchanges a few pleasantries, but then he’s diving right in to more specifics. The nitty gritty of a trade. Flight details. Financials and reimbursements. Rental car when he lands. Taxes.

Cassian only half listens, making sure he makes the affirmative sounds at the appropriate breaks in conversation. This isn’t his first rodeo. Although, he had still been in the farm system when his last trade happened. This is certainly different, but Cassian knows he thankfully won’t have to deal with most of this. He’ll give the director of team services Eris’s number, and let him deal with all the numbers and everything. It’s why he pays him the big bucks after all.

As soon as the call ends, Cassian’s phone lights up and starts ringing again. He wants to pull his own hair out as that incessant sound fills his apartment. He knows how this goes, but he’d give anything for just a moment of peace, a moment to really sit with his thoughts and everything that’s just happened. He considers turning his phone off, letting all the calls go to voicemail, at least for a few hours, but then he sees the name displayed on the screen.

“I take it you saw the news?” Cassian says by way of greeting.

“Need a drink?” Rhysand’s voice carries down the line.

Cassian chuckles, already pushing up to his feet. “You have no idea. But you better be breaking out the good shit from your fancy cellar.”

“Yeah, yeah. Just get your ass over here.”

Just the short conversation, the teasing tone of his chosen brother, has Cassian feeling lighter already. He grabs his wallet and shoves it into his pocket, tugging a ball cap down over his curls. Summer still clings to the city despite the first day of fall barely a few days away, but the breeze that dances between the buildings promises cooler temperatures to come. Cassian takes the subway up toward Central Park, the rocking of the car over the tracks strangely a lulling balm over his nerves.

The doorman offers Cassian a nod and a friendly hello in greeting when he arrives at the building, holding the door open for him to stroll inside. The receptionist at the front desk does the same, barely casting Cassian a cursory glance as he heads for the elevators. He quickly punches in the code and steps inside, riding up and up and up, all the way to the penthouse.

Feyre is waiting for Cassian as soon as the elevator doors open, stepping forward and wrapping her arms tightly around his waist. “I’m so sorry.”

Cassian chuckles but he wraps his own arms around Feyre’s shoulders nonetheless. “I’m not dying, Fey. I just got traded.”

“I know, but traded across the country,” Feyre continues, pulling back enough that she can peer up at Cassian with an overdramatic pout. “I’m losing my partner in crime. Who will join me in bullying Rhys now?”

“You’re right,” Cassian tells her, nodding his head with faux solemness. “I’m so sorry you’ll be stuck on the east coast all alone with Rhys’s stupid face.”

“Stupid face? And here I broke out the good wine for your sorry ass.”

Cassian tosses his head back and laughs. He steps away from Feyre and walks over to Rhys, clapping his brother on the shoulder. “I expect nothing less.”

Rhys rolls his eyes, but he leads the way into the kitchen, three wine glasses and a bottle already arranged on the large kitchen island. He pours the wine into each glass, but Cassian grabs the bottle, examining the label with an appreciative hum.

“I don’t know why you’re making that sound,” Rhys comments dryly, taking a sip of his drink.

“Who cares about that?” Feyre cuts in, waving a dismissive hand at her fiancé and leaning against the kitchen island, her attention solely on Cassian. “Are you excited for Seattle?”

Cassian hums, swirling his wine around the glass. “They’re definitely building a good team out there. Strong top line. And I’ve heard good things about playing under Miller.”

“But…?”

“There’s no but, it’s just…” Cassian sighs softly, pulling his cap off to run his fingers through his hair. “It just sucks because everyone’s here, out east. You guys are always here or in Montreal. Mor’s here in New York. Even Az isn’t that far in Nashville. I won’t know anyone out west.”

“Yeah, but you’ll have the guys on the team. You know they’ll have all the best spots in town to recommend,” Rhys reminds him.

“Yeah, I guess.”

“My sister lives out in Seattle!” Feyre jumps in to add, blue eyes bright.

Cassian frowns. “Doesn’t Elain live in Toronto with Lucien?”

“Not Elain. My other sister. Nesta. You’ve met her.”

Nesta.

Cassian is sure he’d remember if he met Nesta Archeron. He still remembers when Feyre had posted the photos from Elain’s wedding last month to her Instagram, the way his mouth had slackened at the sight of who he was sure was the most beautiful woman he’s ever seen. With the purple, silky fabric of the bridesmaid dress clinging perfectly to her every curve, golden brown strands of hair swept away from her face in an intricate updo, she was breathtaking.

But it was her expression in the photos that had really drawn Cassian in. There was something about it. Something about her. Something about the way that even though she was smiling in the photo, there was still a challenge, a dare, burning in her stormy blue eyes and the pinch of her brow. And Cassian had never backed down from a dare. He was sure one look from her had sent many men to their knees, sent them fleeing for the hills before she could cut them down where they stood, but Cassian? Cassian wanted to drive head first into that fire.

“I don’t think I’ve met her,” Cassian offers, but he doesn’t tell Feyre just how much he wishes he had.

“But she was at our engagement party in May,” Feyre continues, but when Cassian only shrugs in response, she merely sighs. “Whatever. The point is that she lives in Seattle. I can give you her number if you want. Then, you’ll at least know someone out there when you get there. And I’m sure she’d be more than happy to show you around.”

Cassian thinks about it. He thinks back to those photos on Feyre’s Instagram, thinks about the photos he had seen when he stalked Nesta’s own Instagram after he clicked the tagged account. Thinks of those stormy blue eyes and the tilt of her lips in a smirk behind the rim of a wine glass. Thinks of the stories Feyre has told him, of the stubborn and fierce older sister who all but eviscerated Feyre’s ex, Tamlin.

“Yeah… yeah, that’d be good. Just so I know someone out there.”

~ * * * ~

Nesta

Nesta sighs softly, but she reaches down, fingers curling beneath cardboard. Her arms protest at the weight, but she hefts the box up, shuffling the few steps to add it to the organized chaos that’s their backroom. For a moment, her attention dances back toward her phone where she left it on another box, but she pointedly left it face down for a reason. She doesn’t need to look at the text messages waiting for her again.

Feyre 1:18pm Remember Cassian? Rhys’ brother that I told you all about? 😉 He’s coming to Seattle! I gave him your number. Show him around for me? Please?

Unknown number 4:43pm Hey, Nesta. This is Cassian. Feyre gave me your number. I’m moving out to Seattle soon. Maybe we can meet up?

“So, let me get this straight. The Cassian is moving to Seattle?”

Nesta snorts softly, peering toward where Gwyn is sprawled across the floor, iPad balanced against her knees. “We’re calling him the Cassian now?”

“I prefer to call him the douchey hockey player,” Emerie comments idly, placing the box in her own arms down. She swipes up the box cutter from the metal shelf to her left, making quick, efficient work of the tape keeping the box closed.

“And are you imagining douchey hockey player’s balls there?” Gwyn teases, looking meaningfully toward the box cutter in Emerie’s grip.

“So what if I am?” Emerie fires back, leaning forward to open Nesta’s box too. “He’d deserve it.”

“I never said he didn’t,” Gwyn laughs, turning her attention back to Nesta. “So, what are you going to do?”

Nesta sighs softly. “I don’t know. Feyre asked me to show him around the city.”

“Doesn’t he have teammates to do that?”

“Ignore him and the request,” Emerie suggests dryly.

Nesta snorts quietly but it quickly turns into a sigh, even as she keeps her hands busy pulling books out of her box. “I didn’t exactly tell Feyre what happened that night.”

She hadn’t told anyone about that night, save her two best friends. She still cringes sometimes when she thinks back to it, the embarrassment burning bright low in her gut, twisting and squeezing between her ribs uncomfortably. She’d sworn that night that she would never give a single thought about Cassian Valdarez ever again, and until today, she’d kept true to that.

She’d spent her remaining days in New York City solely with her sisters, even doing one of the touristy bus tours with Elain to see all the classic sights. And thankfully, Feyre had been more interested in excitedly talking about wedding plans and ideas than continuing her busybody meddling. If either of her sisters noticed anything different with Nesta, they didn’t say anything.

After Nesta had flown back home to Seattle, Emerie and Gwyn came over to her apartment. Drinking a bottle of wine between the three of them, it all had come spilling out of her. Her friends had allowed her to pace and rage, and then that was that. Nesta had washed her hands of the whole thing. Never again did she dare to check the sports news out of curiosity. Never again did she dare to stalk his Instagram. Never again did she think of the stupid face and the stupid smirk of a smile of that hockey player.

“What if you give him a tour of all the worst places in the city?” Emerie suggests, brown eyes practically lighting up at the idea. “Then, maybe he’ll want to leave the city.”

Gwyn’s laugh is bright, red hair tumbling down her back when she tosses her head back. “That is definitely not how sports teams operate.”

“Worth a shot,” Emerie mutters, tossing aside the box packaging in her hands and reaching back in for the books hiding beneath. “Holy shit. We got the new Sellyn Drake novel already?”

Emerie holds up the book in her hand excitedly, showing off the cover. Like so many romance novels these days, it features a faceless, cartoon style couple. The man is shirtless, though, rocking a kilt, while the woman is drawn with a yellow sundress. Looping script above the cartoon characters declares the title, The Scottish High Lord and Me.

“It’s official release date is…” Gwyn starts, squinting down at the iPad and scrolling through whatever is on the screen. “Tuesday, so we’ll want to put them out Monday night after we close.”

Gwyn reaches over toward the metal shelves, swiping up the sticky notes and sharpie sitting there. She scrawls out a note, a reminder of when they’ll need to stock the books, and peels the sticky note free. She slaps it right over the cover of the book in Emerie’s hands, but Emerie is quick to peel it right back off, placing it instead on one of the other copies still in the box.

“Hey!” Gwyn chastises, narrowing her eyes.

“What?” Emerie asks, her tone overly innocent. “This is my copy.”

“Gwyn just said the book doesn’t technically release until Tuesday,” Nesta points out, snorting softly.

“What’s the point of owning a bookstore if we don’t get to read all the best releases early? Besides, it’s not like I’m going to be posting all the spoilers online or anything.”

“Good point,” Nesta agrees, reaching forward as well to grab another of the Sellyn Drake books.

“You both are terrible.”

“Oh, come on,” Emerie teases with a roll of her eyes. “You know you want to read it too.”

“Seriously, Gwyn,” Nesta adds, not even bothering to bite back her smirk as she points to the cover. “It’s a Scottish love interest.”

Gwyn huffs, seemingly determined to hold her ground with her crossed arms and narrowed gaze, but it barely lasts a few seconds. Not quite meeting either of her friends' eyes, the barest hint of a blush beginning to pool in her cheeks, she reaches forward into the box, plucking out another of the books.

Nesta and Emerie glance toward each other, sharing a knowing look, before they both burst out laughing. It feels good to laugh, to have that lightness twining around her limbs and swelling through her chest. It feels good to be squeezed back in this tiny stockroom with her best friends, her chosen sisters. She doesn’t know what she’d do without them.

They were there for her when she hit the lowest point of her life, when she well and truly felt like she hit rock bottom. They were right there beside her in the trenches, a shoulder to cry on, an ear to rage and scream at, a voice of reason and comfort. They didn’t flinch when Nesta snapped and released that swirling storm of emotion within her. They didn’t balk from her every scar, every dark crevice of her soul.

And when Nesta was ready, they helped pull her out.

“And what books are in your box?” Gwyn asks Nesta, pulling her out of her thoughts and back into the present.

Nesta shakes her head before peering into the box at her feet, pushing aside the packaging. “It looks like it’s our restock of that baseball romance that went viral.”

“Oh, thank goodness,” Gwyn comments, tapping away at the iPad screen. “We should definitely put those out tonight so they’re ready for tomorrow.”

~ * * * ~

Nesta slumps back against the blankets and pillows of her bed with a soft sigh. She sinks back into the mattress, letting her arm fall over her eyes. There’s definitely a soreness lingering in her biceps from lifting all those boxes, but it was worth it.

When they finished inventory of the latest deliveries, the three of them had moved back into the main shop. Emerie had taken to restocking the shelves while Gwyn took to rearranging the table displays at the front. Nesta had taken to the registers. Math had always been a strong point for her, even when she was back in school, so it was always her job to balance their books. They all worked in perfect tandem until everything was good to go, finally closing up the shop and heading their separate ways back to their respective apartments.

Nesta allows herself another moment to simply lay in bed before hauling herself back up. She grabs the newest Sellyn Drake novel, resituating her pillows and settling back comfortably against them. Her fingers skate along the cover, down over the spine. There’s always been something about holding a fresh book in her hands. The crisp pages, the scent of parchment and ink.

Sliding her palm down the cover once more, Nesta turns to the first page, but her gaze dances away from the words and over to her nightstand. To her phone sitting there. She knows she shouldn’t, but her fingers itch with the urge all the same. With an annoyed huff, Nesta snatches up the device, navigating to her message app and the unread texts there.

Unknown number 7:12pm Did I type in the wrong number? This is Nesta, right?

Unknown number 7:37pm Feyre says this is the right number. Did she tell you I’m moving to the Seattle area? It would be really great if we could meet up!

Unknown number 9:21pm I guess you’re just really busy. My flight gets in Saturday morning, but the team is picking me up to show me around the practice facilities and locker rooms and introduce me to everyone. Maybe we could meet up in the afternoon? I’d be more than happy to buy you dinner 😏

The last message has Nesta rolling her eyes hard. It’s exactly the sort of response she expects from someone like Cassian. All the arrogance and presumptuousness that comes from being a professional athlete. She half wonders how he even fits his ego inside the locker rooms.

Nesta tosses her phone aside and returns to her book. She hasn’t broken her promise yet, and she has no intention of breaking it now. Besides, who needs a hockey player when she has a fictional Scotsman, anyways?

—

Taglist (let me know if you’d like to be added or removed): @moodymelanist @nesquik-arccheron @sv0430 @talkfantasytome @bookstantrash @eirini-thaleia @ubigaia @fromthelibraryofemilyj @luivagr-blog @lifeisntafantasy @superspiritfestival @hiimheresworld @marigold-morelli @sweet-pea1 @emeriethevalkyriegirl @pyxxie @dustjacketmusings @hallway5 @dongjunma @glowing-stick-generation @melonsfantasyworld @lady-nestas @goddess-aelin @melphss @theladystardust @a-trifling-matter @blueunoias @kookskoocie @wolfnesta @blurredlamplight @hereforthenessian @skaixo @jmoonjones @burningsnowleopard @whyisaravenlike-awritingdesk @ofduskanddreams @rarephloxes @thelovelymadone @books-books-books4ever @tenaciousdiplomatloverprune @that-little-red-head @readergalaxy @thesnugglingduck @kale-theteaqueen @tarquindaddy @superflurry @bri-loves-sunflowers @lady-winter-sunrise @witch-and-her-witcher @fieldofdaisiies

[illdowhatiwantthanks]

Home for the Holidays

Casey Novak x autistic fem!reader Warnings: some explicit language, mentions of sex, mostly just fluff on fluff on fluff Prompt(s): From novelbear, thank you! �� Word Count: 2.3k

Summary: You bring Casey home to meet your parents and siblings. Adorableness ensues.

Casey's leg bounced up and down as she stared out the passenger window of the rental car. You were only a half hour away from the Nashville airport, and already the crowded city streets had given way to fields, barns, and the occasional herd of cattle on a hillside. Bluegrass played softly through the speakers. You sighed contentedly, knowing just when to turn, just when to slow around a curve, just when to watch for deer crossing the road. You were almost home. Casey let out a shaky breath and you took her hand, pulling it to your lips for a quick kiss before lacing your fingers through hers. "Casey," you sang, trying to get her out of her head. She didn't answer.

"Honey, you're gonna be fine."

"God, I hope they like me," she muttered, her breath fogging up the car window.

"Of course they'll like you. What's not to like?"

"Oh, I don't know," Casey replied sarcastically, throwing up her hands. "I'm a lawyer. I'm blunt as shit. I probably swear too much. And I'm fucking their little girl."

"Okay, first of all, I'm not little. I'm almost thirty. So that'd be a dumb thing for them to care about." Casey said nothing. "Secondly, you're the only person I've ever brought home. If anyone's gonna be scared, it's them! They don't want to scare you off. Chances are not good that I'd ever bring someone home again." Casey bit at her fingernails. You batted them away from her mouth. "Quit with that, you just got them done."

"I'm just saying it's a lot of pressure!" she said, pulling at the strings of her hoodie.

"This is a lot of pressure!?" You laughed. "You made me meet your parents two months in! And you gave me one day's notice!"

"Yeah, but they live in the city, so it wasn't a big deal. I see them all the time. And it wasn't Christmas."

"Oh, don't even start. You were so butthurt when I went home for Thanksgiving without you."

You pulled down your street, houses twinkling with holiday lights, and waved at a neighbor walking a dog.

"Who's that?" Casey asked.

"I don't know."

"You just wave at people you don't know?!"

"Here? Yes. In New York? No."

You pulled to a stop in your family's driveway and grinned at their decorations–a giant pride flag, made entirely of Christmas lights.

"Wow," Casey said, gawking at the display.

"What can I say? They're aggressive allies."

You sat silently in the car for a moment, then took Casey's hand. "You ready?"

You nearly leapt out of your seats as two hands slammed on the driver's side door.

"Y/N!!! Come on, come on, come on!"

You smiled big, eyes sparkling, stimming quickly at your ears and shaking your head. It was your baby brother, Eli. Not such a baby anymore–16 years old. You threw open the car door and he barreled into you, squeezing his arms around your neck as tightly as he could.

"Who's here?!" he said, bouncing up and down with his hand on your shoulders. "Y/N's here!!!"

Casey watched you from a distance. You'd told her all about your youngest siblings–the twins. That they were, quite literally, one in millions. Fraternal twins, both born with Down syndrome. Casey knew, from you, that Eli loved Mario Kart and Les Misérables and called once a week to sing "One Day More" with you. She knew Winnie was a hotshot in the local Special Olympics basketball league (even at 4' 10"), a budding artist, and "kind of a bitch right now," as you'd told her on the way over.

"Can you say that about someone with Down syndrome?" Casey had asked.

You'd scoffed. "People with disabilities can be bitches just as much as anyone else."

Now, as she watched you with your brother, she got it. She got it when you said that they were your favorite people in the world which, until now, had made her ridiculously jealous. She got it when you said that you would give up everything to take care of them when your parents weren't able to anymore. Your face was alight with so much joy, so much connection. Connection that Casey knew you didn't get many other places, aside from her. And she knew then that she'd give up everything for you to have that, even if it meant moving to help you take care of your siblings when the time came.

When you and Eli finally separated, he turned his attention to Casey.

"Hi, Eli!" she said, bending down to be a bit closer to his height. "I'm Casey."

Unlike Winnie, who could talk the ear off a donkey, Eli was mostly non-verbal. He had autism, too, like you, and for this reason, you'd always felt a deeper connection to him. You knew you weren't supposed to have favorite siblings, but Eli was yours. So when he decided to use his limited words to talk with Casey, it was a big deal.

He looked first at Casey, then at you, and asked, "Girlfriend?"

You nodded, beaming. "Yep! Yeah, Casey's my girlfriend."

He stepped closer looking Casey over. After a moment, he seemed to decide that he liked her.

"Casey, big squeeze," he said, and wrapped his arms around her waist. Eli pronounced her name "kissy." You thought your heart might explode. She patted his back and looked to you for a translation.

"Big squeeze means he wants you to hug him as tight as you can. Like, really tight, to the point that you're afraid you might hurt him." She obliged and he laughed in her grip. When she let him go, he patted her on the back and jogged inside.

"It helps with, uh, autism stuff. The deep pressure," you explained.

"Does it help you, too?" Casey asked as you took your luggage out of the trunk.

"What?"

"The big squeeze. Do you like those, too?"

You smiled at her, quick and bright. "Yeah. Yeah, I really do."

"Come here." She pulled you into her and squeezed as hard as she could, using every muscle in her body to put pressure on you, flexing so hard you could feel her shaking. Your body, on the other hand, felt light as a feather, as if all the stress, all the tension in it was seeping out. When she let you go, you sighed happily, your body tingly. You felt almost high.

"Yeah, we're gonna do a lot more of that," Casey decided, observing how much you'd relaxed.

Tennessee wasn't cold, not like New York, but the warmth from inside hit you hard anyway. "Come on," Eli urged, impatiently motioning you toward the living room, where you knew your parents would be sitting. You helped Casey out of her coat, then took off yours, hanging them by the door.

"Mom, Dad!" Eli yelled. "Who's here!?"

Your parents walked into the kitchen, absolutely beaming at you. They'd never say it, but they'd given up on you dating. You just hadn't been interested. They'd gotten used to the idea that you could be happy without a relationship, after years of you sending them articles about asexuality. But you could tell they were happy to see you in love.

"Hey, y'all," your mom said, wrapping Casey in a huge hug that took her off guard.

You smiled as your dad did the same to you, kissing the top of your head. "Hey, sweet pea," he whispered. "Glad you're home."

Casey cleared her throat and reached out to shake your dad's hand. His biker-style beard and imposing height always made him seem scarier than he really was. "Mr. Y/L/N, it's very nice to meet y–" Once again, she was cut off by a bear hug.

"Welcome," your dad said, nearly smothering her. "We're so glad you're here."

"Where's Winnie?" you asked, looking around.

"Upstairs on her iPad." Your mom rolled her eyes. "Want me to get her?"

"Nah. She'll figure out I'm here eventually."

You all made your way to the living room, where Eli promptly got on his own iPad, put his headphones on, and proceeded to perform a series of silent, choreographed dances in front of the Christmas tree. Casey watched him, amused and delighted that neither you nor your parents seemed to find this out of the ordinary at all.

"How was your trip?" your dad asked, lowering himself into a seat next to your mom.

"Good," you said, taking Casey's hand in yours when you noticed she was picking at her fingernails again. "The airport wasn't even too bad."

"I bet it'll be a shit show tomorrow..." your dad mused, thinking about Christmas Eve flights of years past.

"So, Casey," your mom started, clearly eager to get to know the only person who'd ever managed to turn your head. "Tell us about yourself. Y/N says you're a lawyer?"

"That's right." You squeezed Casey's hand as she spoke. "I'm an Assistant District Attorney at the Manhattan DA's office. I prosecute cases for the Special Victims Unit."

"Special Victims?" your dad asked. "Like victims of assault?"

She glanced at your brother who shimmied in the background. "Uh..."

"He can't hear," you told her.

"Yes. Assault, rape, sexually-motivated homicide, child abuse, things like that."

"That's gotta be such a hard job," your mom empathized.

"It's admirable work." Your dad nodded approvingly at Casey, and she seemed to relax a bit. "Those pieces of garbage deserve to rot in hell. But jail's a start."

You rolled your eyes. Your dad was a passionate man, with a tendency to turn more aggressively passionate at any mention or hint of violence toward women and children. Come to think of it, Casey reminded you of him in that way.

"I couldn't agree more," Casey told him.

"You met playing softball?" your mom asked, clearly trying to redirect the conversation.

Casey's face brightened. "We did!" She wrapped an arm around your shoulder and you leaned into her, blushing a little. Your parents shared a glance; they had never seen you this close to anyone. "We're on the same rec team. Y/N's the catcher and I pitch."

"Still got that catcher's gear?" your dad joked, winking at you.

You shot him a glare. "I know I'm not that much taller than I was when I was twelve but, no, Dad, the gear from my middle school team doesn't fit anymore."

"Ooh!" he exclaimed, sitting up and pointing at Casey. "Has Y/N ever told you about her softball nickname?"

"No, she hasn't," Casey said, smirking at you.

"I coached her team when she was little. She played catcher, of course." Your dad leaned forward, as if he and Casey were in on a delightful secret together.

"But she would jump forward to grab the ball," he continued. "Which was obviously a terrible idea because–"

"She's gonna get hit," Casey finished, nodding.

"Exactly. She was really good, but she always jumped out and we kept telling her, 'You can't be pouncing like a tiger, you're gonna get hurt.' And one day, sure enough, she leaned forward and bam! She was laid out. Thank god she had the helmet on, or it probably would've cracked her skull."

Casey laughed, but placed a hand absentmindedly on the side of your head, as if checking to make sure you really were okay, all these years later.

"After that," your dad chuckled. "Word got around with other parents and the girls on the team, and they started calling her El Tigre. For the rest of her softball career–El Tigre!"

Your cheeks were burning as Casey and your parents laughed together, but your heart was warm, too.

"Okay, okay," you said, "I'm gonna go say hey to Winnie." You looked at Casey. "You want to come?"

"Sure!" she said, standing next to you and placing a hand on the small of your back as you moved toward the stairs. You looked back at your parents to see them watching you intently, holding hands, nearly bursting with happiness. They liked her. You could already tell.

As you emerged upstairs, you gently grabbed Casey's waist and pressed her lightly against the wall.

A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. "I thought we were going to see your sister."

"We are," you said, standing on your tiptoes to kiss her softly. You felt her body melt into yours, the stress of the day dissipating. "I just wanted to make sure you were okay first."

Casey sighed contentedly and brushed your hair behind your ears. "I'm good. They're really nice people, your family. They really love you."

"Yeah, well," you scoffed. "Wait until you meet this one."

You knocked on Winnie's door and threw it open when she called, "What!?"

Winnie sat at her desk in all her diminutive glory, Special Olympics medals hanging from a cork board and Usher's "Yeah!" blaring from the speakers.

"'Sup, nerd," you said, standing in the doorway.

Winnie gaped, looking from you to Casey.

"What are you doing here, Y/N?" she finally said.

"Uh, it's Christmas?" you responded.

Winnie pointed at Casey. "Who are you?"

You could tell that Casey was holding back laughter. "I'm Casey."

"You're Y/N's friend?" Winnie asked, leaning back and swiveling in her desk chair.

"No, I'm not her friend. I'm her girlfriend," Casey said as the two of you took a seat on the edge of Winnie's bed.

Winnie seemed to think very deeply about this. "Her girlfriend?"

You both nodded.

"Like, when you have a crush?"

You blushed.

"Yep," Casey nodded, patting your leg. "I have a big crush on Y/N."

Casey shot you a cheesy grin. She was loving this.

Winnie smirked and waggled her eyebrows. "Do you kiss!?"

"Oh my god," you groaned, rubbing your forehead.

Casey on the other hand, seemed to be living for this conversation.

"Oh, absolutely," Casey told her. "I do kiss Y/N. I love to kiss her."

Winnie scoffed and turned back to her desk, fiddling with her iPad.

"What about you, Winnie?" Casey continued, crossing her legs and getting comfortable. It blew your mind that Casey seemed to be getting along with Winnie so well. Or maybe Casey just liked pushing people's buttons. God knows, Winnie was nothing but buttons to push these days. "Do you have a girlfriend? Or a boyfriend?"

The look of absolute condescension on Winnie's smug face finally drove Casey to the edge. She burst out laughing. "Why are you looking at me like that!?"

"I don't have time for that," Winnie said. "I have to work out." She pulled up her sleeve and flexed her bicep.

"Damn!" Casey exclaimed, standing up to squeeze Winnie's arm. "You are strong!"

Winnie pulled her sleeve back down. "Yeah, I know."

"I hear you're really good at basketball," Casey said conspiratorially, squatting down next to Winnie's desk. "I'm more of a baseball girl myself, but you wanna play tomorrow?"

"Yeah!" Winnie exclaimed, genuinely excited before she remembered she was too cool for us. "But I'll win."

Casey raised her eyebrows. "That's some big talk."

Winnie shrugged. "I can't help it that I'm the best."

"You got me there."

You gestured to Casey and she followed you to the door.

"Y/N can't play, though," Winnie added, glancing back at Casey.

"Aw, why not?" Casey protested. "I love playing with Y/N."

Winnie shook her head. "She is really bad."

"Ouch, Winnie," you said, glaring at her.

Casey cracked up again, and you elbowed her in the stomach.

"Good night, loser," you called as you shut Winnie's door.

"Good night, dork!" she yelled back.

Casey had tears in her eyes from laughing so hard.

"See?" you whispered to her. "I told you. A little bitch."

Casey grabbed your face in her hands and pressed her forehead to yours. She kissed you quickly, then laughed, a wide grin on her face.

"What's this for?" you asked, as if you needed a reason.

"Oh, it's nothing," Casey said, serious, before giggling, "I just have such a big crush on you."

"Ugh, stop!" You pushed her away. "That's so dumb."

"It's cute!" she protested, and you didn't know if you'd ever seen her this giddy. She came up behind you and wrapped her arms around your waist, pressing her face into your neck. "Come on, you say it, too."

You rolled your eyes, but a smile tugged at the corners of your mouth. "I have a massive, huge, heartstopping crush on you, Casey."

She buried her face into you, planting kisses up and down your neck as her fingers tickled your stomach. You squirmed and giggled and shushed her as you both headed back downstairs. You didn't want to seem too in love. Your parents would never let it go.

[mariacallous]

A divided City Council gave the go-ahead Thursday on an update of the city’s zoning codes projected to create new capacity to construct up to 80,000 new residences over the next 15 years.

The Council voted 31 to 20 to advance Mayor Eric Adams’ City of Yes for Housing Opportunity agenda — with some members saying they were moved to approve the package after obtaining concessions from the mayor’s original plans.

The overhaul aims to address a housing shortage that has given New York City its lowest rental vacancy rate since 1968.

Before casting her vote in support, Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Queens) made an impassioned speech on the floor of the Council chambers, saying New Yorkers who need places to live are counting on the Council.

“I am tired of the homelessness rate going up. I am tired of my community going south because their city is unaffordable for them to live in. I am tired of watching daily people on the brink of eviction and other means of losing their homes,” she said. “This cannot be the Council that turns their back on [the] homeless. This cannot be the Council that turns their back and continues to say ‘Scrap it.’ Let’s move ahead.”

City of Yes aimed to create a “bit more housing in every neighborhood” in order to address growing inequities between areas that have produced a disproportionate amount of new housing and others insulated from new development by restrictive zoning codes.

The vote culminated a long campaign by the mayor and deputies. Administration officials, including Department of City Planning Director Dan Garodnick and First Deputy Mayor Maria Torres-Springer appeared at rallies at City Hall over the past year to galvanize support for City of Yes, joined by some borough presidents.

Meanwhile, fierce opposition arose in many outer-borough areas — including eastern Queens, southern Brooklyn and Staten Island — where residents voiced fears the zoning changes would dramatically alter the character of their neighborhoods and put further pressure on stretched sewers and streets. Some tenant advocacy groups also criticized the plan, saying it would not create truly affordable housing.

The plan moved forward despite the opposition and a politically weakened mayor. Negotiations between the Council and the administration got down to the wire and resulted in a scaled-down plan.

As part of negotiations, the Council secured $5 billion — including $1 billion from Gov. Kathy Hochul — to invest in sewer and flood-prevention projects, as well as initiatives that include financing for affordable housing development, expanded legal services for homeowners, help with down payments and a boost for rent vouchers. 

In a press conference after the vote, the mayor and Hochul celebrated the outcome.

“This milestone vote by the City Council will clear the way to build a new generation of affordable housing for our city,” Adams said. “It is not just four walls that we’re building: it is hope, it’s opportunities, it’s a safe haven. Today, we say yes to that.”

Hochul called New York City the state’s economic engine, one she wanted to make more affordable. 

“The biggest expense anyone has is their rent or their mortgage payment, if they’re lucky enough to have a home,” she said. “It comes down to one thing: building more housing will drive down the cost of housing.”

Bigger Buildings

Among other measures designed to boost growth, the new zoning lets developers build larger buildings if they include more than the minimum required housing for lower-income tenants, allows a minimum of five stories in areas that are close to transit and above retail, and makes it easier to convert office buildings to apartments.

In the chambers, Councilmember Carlina Rivera (D-Manhattan) framed her support of the plan as an acknowledgement that the city is “woefully behind in housing production.”

In response to concerns from officials representing mostly low-density, suburban-style districts with many single-family homes and high car dependency, changes made to the proposal prior to a committee vote last month slashed the expected housing by about one-fourth.

The Council speaker defended the changes. “Our modifications to the zoning reforms balance respect for neighborhood character — because not all districts are alike — with the citywide need to build housing, especially to build affordable homes,” she said. “While we recognize the importance of zoning reform to build more housing, especially amidst the housing shortage, we knew more was needed to keep New Yorkers housed and address growing housing insecurity.”

In the original proposal, three- to five-story buildings were allowed half a mile from Metro-North and Long Island Rail Road stations, but are now only allowed within a quarter mile. Those buildings are also no longer allowed in areas with single-family homes.

While the original proposal sought to get rid of parking requirements for new development entirely, the plan that passed Council instead preserves parking mandates in most areas but scales them back, dividing the city in three zones. Now creating parking for new housing is optional in most of Manhattan plus western Brooklyn and Queens, with reduced minimums in areas in outer boroughs close to public transit. Elsewhere, the status quo remains — new development must include a prescribed minimum number of parking spaces.

Apartments in basements and garages — known as accessory dwelling units — would be limited to a single story unless they include parking, backyard cottages are limited to one-third of the yard space and homeowners must live on the property in order to build one of these types of apartments. First-flood and basement apartments would be banned in places prone to coastal and stormwater flooding. 

The amendments won the votes of some who had been on the fence, including Councilmembers Althea Stevens (D-The Bronx), Rita Joseph (D-Brooklyn) and Nantasha Williams (D-Queens).

“I recognize halting the advancement of housing development will only deepen this crisis and harm the communities that I fight so hard to serve,” Stevens said, explaining her yes vote.

Still, the modifications didn’t appease everyone. 

Councilmember Christopher Marte (D-Manhattan), voting no, described the City of Yes as a giveaway to developers, while others criticized it as a one-size-fits-all approach. Councilmembers Bob Holden (D-Queens) and Kalman Yeger (D-Brooklyn) called the $5 billion commitment “Monopoly money,” that they didn’t trust.

The Council also approved three pieces of legislation to accompany the City of Yes plan. Two bills set up a basement apartment legalization program and lay out safety standards for those and other types of so-called accessory dwelling units. The third would reestablish a tax incentive to help co-op and condo owners rehabilitate their homes.

City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is the third of three City of Yes land use packages from Mayor Adams, two of which — for businesses and environmental projects — the Council previously approved.

Multiple groups — including Open New York, the New York Building Congress and the Association for Neighborhood and Housing Development — weighed in after the vote to emphasize that City of Yes and the accompanying $5 billion spending plan represented just the start of the work ahead.

“Passing City of Yes for Housing Opportunity is a very important victory that will spur much-needed housing development all across the city,” said Citizens Budget Commission President Andrew Rein in a statement that reflected a common sentiment. “While a critical and welcome step, there’s more to be done to solve our housing crisis.

[grits-galraisedinthesouth]

Worldwide Privacy Tour Part 2, it seems, is well underway.

"Yes, the night was pure Meghan Markle: A manufactured build-up of anticipation, a highly dramatic entrance afforded no other actual activist — Meghan climbed on stage to the Alicia Keys she-ro anthem ‘Girl on Fire’ — and then... a whole lot of nothing...This crowd was checking their watches."

"If anything, as the night dragged on and the event slipped an hour behind schedule – a sudden break announced so we could finally have dinner – the crowd bristled...Notably, not one person I spoke to nor one speaker or honoree mentioned Meghan. Not one said how exciting it was to have her there. Not one expressed the slightest curiosity at what she’d have to say."

"And this image, our renegade duchess without a palace-worthy advance team to prevent such cheap optics as the Hertz hiccup, set the tone for the evening: Fatuous, irrelevant, high on its own self-regard, all sense of purpose lost. Gloria Steinem, once the face of women’s rights, reduced to star-f***ery. It was a bizarre night."

MAUREEN CALLAHAN: Meghan's word-salad Manhattan gala appearance

She so badly wants to be the Queen of Hearts.

But, as she arrived on Tuesday night, making her grand entrance in Midtown Manhattan, sauntering past that rental-car backdrop, it was more like the Queen of Hertz.

Of course, as the world is now all too aware, Meghan Markle capped off winning a meaningless award with what we’re told was a ‘near catastrophic’, ‘two-hour’ car chase through the streets of Manhattan.

Yes, according to a spokesperson, Meghan, along with hapless Harry and mom Doria, were the subjects of a wild, impassioned hunt by the paparazzi.

Some sympathetic commentators have already made the gruesome comparisons to Princess Diana’s tragic final fate.

But to echo the statements made by New York City’s own mayor Eric Adams and the police department: Perhaps it didn’t quite happen the way it was painted.

Recollections may vary.

Naturally, their mouthpiece Omid Scobie is whining that no one from the Palace has yet reached out.

Wonder why?

One also wonders what Gloria Steinem, the 89-year-old feminist icon who chose to honor Meghan as a ‘Woman of Vision’ at Tuesday night’s Ms. Foundation Gala, must be thinking now.

After all, the car ‘chase’ debacle soon stole all the thunder from her event, which I was lucky enough to witness first-hand.

Now, it was hardly the red carpet one might expect. Hardly the pomp and circumstance of, say, a coronation.

Yet Meghan forged ahead as she always does, as if this were her crowning moment, sheathed in gold as if to symbolize a crown.

Or an Oscar statuette.

Same difference, really, if your only goal is fame. That’s our Meghan, none too subtle as ever, literally going for the gold as Harry and Doria took their positions three steps behind.

Harry may be a prince of the blood, but never forget — Meghan is The Star. Her Norma Desmond-ing is among the great spectacles of our modern age.

And this image, our renegade duchess without a palace-worthy advance team to prevent such cheap optics as the Hertz hiccup, set the tone for the evening: Fatuous, irrelevant, high on its own self-regard, all sense of purpose lost. Gloria Steinem, once the face of women’s rights, reduced to star-f***ery. It was a bizarre night.

Upon entering the Zeigfeld Ballroom, guests were asked whether they were ‘VIP’ — seems even feminist movements have their echelons — and turfed to the lobby.

My $1,500 entry-level ticket got me a hard seat with a front-row view of coat check.

After ten minutes, circumstances having changed inexplicably, the riff-raff were allowed up to the second floor.

Here were two open bars serving top-shelf liquor and the shock of post-pandemic dress code slovenliness. One unkempt guest was wearing sparkly Birkenstock sandals and a black stretchy minidress under a pink puffer jacket.

These were the VIPs?

The only recognizable person I saw was Peloton instructor Ally Love, and that’s saying something. Where were the stars? Where were the notables of the movement? The Malalas? The Fondas? The Beyoncés?

Perhaps no one was meant to outshine Meghan. Only one feminist icon was going to enter via rental car office!

Down in the ballroom, the plated salads on our banquet tables were ready waiting for us – dry, unsightly, stringy greens that resembled nothing so much as regurgitated hairballs. Notably, not one person I spoke to nor one speaker or honoree mentioned Meghan.

Not one said how exciting it was to have her there. Not one expressed the slightest curiosity at what she’d have to say.

If anything, as the night dragged on and the event slipped an hour behind schedule – a sudden break announced so we could finally have dinner – the crowd bristled.

It says something when a table of size-6 women tear into their heavily glazed steak and buttery mashed potatoes with abandon.

Yes, the night was pure Meghan Markle: A manufactured build-up of anticipation, a highly dramatic entrance afforded no other actual activist — Meghan climbed on stage to the Alicia Keys she-ro anthem ‘Girl on Fire’ — and then... a whole lot of nothing.

Verbiage and word salad that were content-free, except when speaking on her favorite subject: herself.

Here, in real time, we observed Meghan’s inability to read a room. She thanked the ‘other honorees’ without naming them.

‘Congratulations,’ she said, ‘and frankly, well deserved.’

It was all so smug and supercilious, this glorified podcaster telling these boots-on-the-ground activists — no matter what one thinks of their politics — that they had, in fact, earned their place on the same stage as the great Meghan Markle. That ‘frankly’ was so typical. It was meant to redound to Meghan’s benefit, as the lone wolf daring to speak the unspeakable.

There was the cringe-inducing humblebrag, calling her new friend Gloria ‘Glo’.

It brought to mind the forced intimacy of meeting Kate Middleton barefoot and insisting that the pair share lip gloss.

It's 'Glo' to Meghan, but Meghan is 'Duchess' to us.

‘We all bear witness,’ Meghan continued of her fellow honorees, ‘to you standing in elegance and the power of your strength.’

Huh?

This crowd was not convinced. This crowd was checking their watches. There were trains to catch, children to kiss goodnight. Alas, we were stuck with the vapidity of La Markle.

Her speech didn’t even deliver fresh content! She repeated the story, as told on her podcast, of poor little Meghan coming home from school to her TV dinner, cat collars and copies of Ms. Magazine strewn about courtesy of her mother — even though it’s well-documented that her father primarily raised her.

‘Having these pages in our home,’ she went on, ‘. . . signaled to me that there was so much more than the dolled-up covers and those images that you would see on the grocery store covers. It signaled to me that substance mattered.’

Says the former D-list actress and former briefcase game-show girl who used her looks to get ahead. Who has posed for those very same magazine covers.This warmed-over speech, less heated than our steaks, was Meghan’s greatest hits:

‘Change is just one action away.’

‘You can be the visionary of your own life.’

‘Daily acts of service, in kindness, in advocacy, in grace and in fairness.’

‘The imprints that were forged in my mind — I can now connect the dots in a much better way to understand how I became a young feminist and evolved into a grown activist.’

A feminist who, let us not forget, has publicly demonized her famous sister-in-law — ‘Waity Katie’ to Oprah and an audience of millions.

Kate made me cry! WAAAGH!

In truth, Meghan's a self-identified 'grown activist' who has done nothing. The pontification, her sing-song-y cadence as she luxuriated in her own praise, was as insufferable as it was revealing.

‘Ms.’ she said, ‘was formative in [my] cocooning. It piqued my curiosity, and it became the chrysalis for the woman that I would become and that I am today.’

Right: The woman who vilified the institution headed-up by Queen Elizabeth II in her final years. The woman who heavily alleged institutional racism until her husband finally backed away from that terrible smear.

A woman with no substance and no accomplishments as a feminist. A woman who is still trying to one-up the royals, even from a car-park adjacent ballroom with no red carpet. Meghan is the personification of Ms. as an organization that has lost its way.

Indeed, most of the night was spent advocating not for women but for trans rights and Critical Race Theory.

‘Abortion is racist,’ we were told.

Beware the ‘the white supremacist patriarchal system.’

Yes, even the Ms. Foundation – established for biological women out of a deep, and enduring, necessity – has been subsumed by men who identify as women.

How fitting then that the night was overshadowed by a grasping phony whose empty platitudes on stage failed to make headlines, whose spokesperson told a wild story of a high-stakes car chase.

Pity Meghan, but recognize her strength. Admire her, but never laugh at her. And never, ever question her veracity.

Worldwide Privacy Tour Part 2, it seems, is well underway.

[avnycrentals-blog]

Top-Notch Audio & LED Video Wall Rentals in NYC by Av Rentals NYC

When it comes to hosting a memorable event in the bustling city of New York, nothing sets the stage better than high-quality audio and stunning visual displays. At Av Rentals NYC, we specialize in providing top-of-the-line audio rentals NYC and LED video wall rentals NYC that will elevate your event to the next level. Whether you’re organizing a corporate function, wedding, conference, or concert, our cutting-edge equipment and exceptional service ensure that your event is a resounding success.

Unmatched Audio Rentals NYC for Every Occasion

Sound quality is crucial for any event. With Av Rentals NYC, you get access to premium audio rentals NYC that cater to diverse needs. From powerful PA systems to crisp, clear microphones, our audio equipment is designed to deliver superior sound performance. We understand the importance of clear audio in engaging your audience, and our equipment ensures that every word, note, and beat is heard with perfect clarity.

Our range of audio rentals includes:

High-Fidelity Speakers: For crystal-clear sound that fills any space.

Wireless Microphones: Offering freedom of movement without compromising audio quality.

Mixing Consoles: For precise sound control and customization.

Stage Monitors: To keep performers and speakers in tune with their sound.

No matter the size of your event or the complexity of your audio needs, Av Rentals NYC has the right equipment to make sure your sound is flawless.

Stunning LED Video Wall Rentals NYC for Visual Impact

In today’s digital age, visual presentations are more impactful than ever. With our LED video wall rentals in NYC, your event will stand out with vivid, high-definition displays that captivate and engage your audience. Our LED video walls are perfect for:

Corporate Presentations: Enhance your business presentations with striking visuals and dynamic content.

Concerts and Live Shows: Add a spectacular visual element that complements your performance.

Trade Shows and Exhibitions: Draw in attendees with eye-catching, large-scale displays.

Weddings and Private Events: Create unforgettable memories with stunning visual effects.

Av Rentals NYC offers a range of LED video wall options to suit your event's requirements, including:

Customizable Sizes: Tailor the dimensions of your video wall to fit any venue.

High Resolution: Ensure every detail is sharp and vibrant.

Seamless Integration: Our team will handle setup and configuration, so you can focus on your event.

Why Choose Av Rentals NYC?

At Av Rentals NYC, we pride ourselves on offering not only exceptional equipment but also unparalleled customer service. Our experienced team works closely with you to understand your specific needs and provide personalized solutions. From initial consultation to post-event support, we ensure a seamless experience every step of the way.

Benefits of Choosing Av Rentals NYC:

Expert Advice: Our knowledgeable staff will help you select the perfect audio and video solutions for your event.

Top-Quality Equipment: We only use state-of-the-art gear to guarantee superior performance.

Reliable Service: Count on us for punctual delivery, professional setup, and timely support.

Competitive Pricing: Enjoy high-quality rentals at affordable rates.

Book Your Audio and LED Video Wall Rentals Today

Ready to take your event to the next level? Contact Av Rentals NYC today to discuss your best audio rentals NYC and LED video wall rentals NYC needs. Our team is eager to help you create an event that’s not only memorable but also flawlessly executed. With our cutting-edge equipment and dedicated service, your event is sure to be a standout success.

Don’t settle for anything less than extraordinary. Choose Av Rentals NYC for all your audio and visual rental needs and experience the difference that professional equipment and expert service can make. Reach out now and let’s make your event unforgettable!

[omar252525]

The Ultimate Guide to Vacation Rentals with Hot Tubs: Relaxation and Luxury Combined

When it comes to planning the perfect vacation, choosing a rental with the right amenities can make all the difference. One of the most sought-after features in vacation rentals is a hot tub. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a solo retreat, a hot tub can add an extra layer of luxury and relaxation to your experience. Here’s your ultimate guide to vacation rentals with hot tubs, covering the benefits, top rental options, and tips for making the most of your stay.

Benefits of Vacation Rentals with Hot Tubs

1. Enhanced Relaxation

After a day of exploring, nothing beats soaking in a hot tub. The warm water and soothing jets can help relieve stress, ease muscle tension, and promote better sleep.

2. Romantic Appeal

A hot tub is a perfect setting for romance. Enjoying a soak under the stars with your partner can be a memorable and intimate experience.

3. Family Fun

Hot tubs aren’t just for adults. Kids love splashing around in the bubbles, making it a fun activity for the whole family.

4. Year-Round Enjoyment

No matter the season, a hot tub is always a good idea. It provides a cozy spot to warm up in winter and a refreshing retreat in the summer evenings.

Top Vacation Rentals with Hot Tubs

1. Unwind Staycations

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

Features:

Luxurious vacation rentals with private hot tubs.

Beautifully designed interiors and spacious outdoor areas.

Close to beaches, shopping, and dining.

Why Choose Unwind Staycations: Unwind Staycations offers a selection of top-notch rentals equipped with private hot tubs. These properties are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the best of Fort Lauderdale. For more details, visit Unwind Staycations.

2. Mountain View Cabin

Location: Asheville, NC

Features:

Secluded cabin with a private hot tub and mountain views.

Rustic charm with modern amenities.

Access to hiking trails and nature reserves.

Why Choose This Rental: Perfect for nature lovers, this cabin offers the tranquility of the mountains combined with the luxury of a hot tub.

3. Beachfront Villa

Location: Malibu, CA

Features:

Stunning beachfront property with an outdoor hot tub overlooking the ocean.

Spacious living areas and high-end finishes.

Close to Malibu’s top attractions and restaurants.

Why Choose This Rental: This villa offers the ultimate in luxury and relaxation, with the added benefit of breathtaking ocean views from the hot tub.

4. Urban Loft

Location: New York City, NY

Features:

Modern loft with a private rooftop hot tub.

Located in the heart of the city, close to major attractions.

Stylish decor and contemporary amenities.

Why Choose This Rental: Experience the excitement of the city with the added luxury of a private hot tub to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Hot Tub Experience

1. Check Maintenance and Cleanliness

Ensure the hot tub is well-maintained and clean. A well-kept hot tub enhances your experience and ensures safety.

2. Bring Essentials

Pack bathing suits, towels, and robes. Consider bringing waterproof speakers for some relaxing music.

3. Create a Relaxing Atmosphere

Enhance your hot tub experience with candles, aromatherapy, and a good book. Soft lighting and soothing scents can elevate your relaxation.

4. Stay Hydrated

Keep a bottle of water nearby to stay hydrated while soaking in the hot tub. Avoid consuming too much alcohol, as it can lead to dehydration.

5. Enjoy the View

If your rental offers scenic views from the hot tub, take the time to soak it all in. Whether it’s a mountain landscape, ocean horizon, or city skyline, the view can add to the ambiance.

Conclusion

Choosing a vacation rental with a hot tub can significantly enhance your getaway, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, the properties listed above offer exceptional options to suit your needs. So, pack your bags, prepare to unwind, and immerse yourself in the ultimate vacation experience with a soothing soak in your private hot tub.

For a truly luxurious stay in Fort Lauderdale, consider booking with Unwind Staycations, where you can enjoy the best accommodations with top-notch amenities. Happy relaxing!

[avrentalsnyc1-blog]

Elevate Your Events with Expert Production & AudioTech Support in NYC

In the bustling metropolis of New York City, where every event is a spectacle and every moment holds the promise of magic, Av Rentals NYC stands as the premier provider of event production services and audio tech support. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for innovation, we specialize in bringing your events to life with professionalism, creativity, and technical expertise.

Comprehensive Event Production: Av Rentals NYC offers a comprehensive range of event production services designed to meet the diverse needs of our clients. Whether you're planning a corporate conference, a live concert, a wedding celebration, or a private party, our experienced team of professionals is here to help you create an unforgettable experience for your guests.

State-of-the-Art AudioTech Support: Our audio tech support services in New York City are second to none, providing you with the technical expertise and equipment you need to ensure crystal-clear sound and flawless audio performance at your event. From microphones and speakers to mixers and amplifiers, we have everything you need to create an immersive audio experience that captivates and engages your audience.

Expert Guidance & Support: At Av Rentals NYC, we understand that planning an event can be overwhelming. That's why our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way, from initial concept development to final execution. Whether you need assistance with audiovisual design, equipment selection, or logistics planning, we're here to provide the support you need to bring your vision to life.

Cutting-Edge Equipment: We pride ourselves on offering the latest in audiovisual technology, with a vast inventory of cutting-edge equipment from leading brands in the industry. Our state-of-the-art gear is meticulously maintained and thoroughly tested to ensure reliable performance and exceptional quality, so you can trust that your event will be a success from start to finish.

Tailored Solutions: Every event is unique, which is why we take a personalized approach to each project we undertake. Whether you're hosting an intimate gathering or a large-scale production, we work closely with you to understand your goals, preferences, and budget, and tailor our services to meet your specific needs and requirements.

Seamless Integration: Our team of experienced technicians ensures seamless integration of audiovisual components, so you can focus on enjoying your event without worrying about technical glitches or equipment malfunctions. We handle all aspects of setup, operation, and breakdown, allowing you to relax and enjoy a stress-free experience from start to finish.

Exceptional Customer Service: At Av Rentals NYC, we prioritize customer satisfaction above all else. From your initial inquiry to the successful completion of your event, we're committed to providing you with the highest level of service and support every step of the way. Our dedicated team is always available to address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring that your experience with us is nothing short of exceptional.

Proven Track Record: With years of experience in the industry and a long list of satisfied clients, Av Rentals NYC has earned a reputation for excellence in event production services and audio tech support services. Whether you're planning a small-scale gathering or a large-scale extravaganza, you can trust us to deliver results that exceed your expectations and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Don't leave the success of your event to chance. Elevate your next gathering with Av Rentals NYC's expert event production services and audio tech support. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings and experience the difference that our professionalism, creativity, and technical expertise can make for your event. Av Rentals NYC – where every event is a masterpiece in the making.

[freehawaii]

DECEMBER FREE HAWAII NEWS - MAUI FIRE VICTIMS DEMAND PRIORITY OVER TOURISTS

Fishing For Housing At Ka`anapali Beach, Construction Attempts On Mauna Kea, A Lā Ku`oko`a Connection with the United Nations & Our Popular Kumu Hinaʻs Mana`o

The December “Free Hawaii News” show airing tonight, Friday December 1st at 6 PM on `Olelo Television Channel 53 on O`ahu and online at FreeHawaiiNews.com reports on demands by Maui fire victims for priority over tourists in finding stable and long term housing for those displaced by the August tragedy instead of being shuffled from hotel to hotel as began again this morning. “We explain what role the Pacific Way can play in helping to make long term housing available to fire victims,” states Free Hawaii News co-host Hinaleimoana Wong. “Supplying decent long term housing for Mauiʻs fire victims should be a no-brainer, yet they are the very ones who are being displaced.” “The Fishing For Housing action on Ka`anapali Beach has succeeded in getting Maui Mayor Richard Bissenʻs attention who has admitted that as mayor he has the power to convert short term rental units to long term. Maui residents are now waiting to see if Mayor Bissen will follow his words with concrete actions.” Our December show also features Mauna Kea kia`i or protector Kalani Flores who explains as false recent assertions by the University of Hawai`i hoping to convince the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR) that Thirty Meter Telescope officials have fulfilled permit requirements to restart construction. “We also report on the connection between Lā Ku`oko`a, Hawaiian Independence Day, and progress currently occurring for Hawai`i at the United Nations and elsewhere around the world,” remarked Free Hawaii News co-host Leon Siu. “The news is exciting and we hope everyone tunes in to learn about it.” Our December show also features one of our most popular monthly segments, Kumu Hinaʻs Mana`o. Brought to you by the Koani Foundation, Free Hawaii News airs every month on `Ōlelo Television on O`ahu and on all neighbor islands. Check local listings for times.Free Hawaii News presents Hawaiian or kanaka maoli perspectives on a broad range of topics and issues affecting the Hawaiian Islands, the Pacific and the world. Hinaleimoana Wong is a kumu hula, filmmaker, cultural activist, Hawaiian language speaker, preservationist and community leader. She has served as a member of the O`ahu Island Burial Council. Leon Siu has for many years served as Foreign Minister of the Hawaiian Kingdom. He is active in that role at the United Nations in both New York City and Geneva, Switzerland. Besides being a diplomat, he is also an award-winning musician, composer and political analyst. “Free Hawaii News” is online at FreeHawaiiNews.com, Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites.he November “Free Hawaii News” show airing tonight, November 3rd at 6 PM on `Olelo Television Channel 53 on O`ahu and online at FreeHawaiiNews.com reports on the ongoing difficulties Mauiʻs fire victims and their families face in being displaced by the fires.

“The people of West Maui and Lahaina while very brave, strong and resolute are nevertheless facing a fight for survival every single day,” states Free Hawaii News co-host Hinaleimoana Wong. “With all of Maui now completely re-opened ahead of schedule, they can see that state and county governments have broken their promises to them and have prioritized for-profit businesses over the well-being of fire victims. Many are already being told their best option is to move off island entirely, either within Hawai`i or to cities in the United States such as Las Vegas. “With several eye-witness reports, we get a first hand experience of what West-side and Lahaina residents are going through,” remarked Free Hawaii News co-host Leon Siu. “Just seeing these reports had a profound and emotional impact on both my co-host Hina Wong and me and we know it will also affect Free Hawaii News viewers the same way.” Our November show also features an explanation of what important role the Pacific Way plays when tragedy strikes. We also have a report detailing significant and new progress for Hawaii at the United Nations as well as our popular segment, Kumu Hinaʻs Mana`o. Brought to you by the Koani Foundation, Free Hawaii News airs every month on `Ōlelo Television on O`ahu and on all neighbor islands. Check local listings for times.

The purpose of the show is to present Hawaiian or kanaka maoli perspectives on a broad range of topics and issues affecting the Hawaiian Islands, the Pacific and the world. Hinaleimoana Wong is a kumu hula, filmmaker, cultural activist, Hawaiian language speaker, preservationist and community leader. She has served as a member of the O`ahu Island Burial Council. Leon Siu has for many years served as Foreign Minister of the Hawaiian Kingdom. He is active in that role at the United Nations in both New York City and Geneva, Switzerland. Besides being a diplomat, he is also an award-winning musician, composer and political analyst. “Free Hawaii News” is online at FreeHawaiiNews.com, Facebook, Instagram and other social media sites.

[silentconference]

Silent Conference in New York

Experience the future of conferencing like never before with the Silent Conference in New York City. This innovative event represents a groundbreaking departure from traditional conferences, offering a unique and immersive experience that has taken the world by storm. Imagine stepping into a world where the cacophony of overlapping conversations, shuffling papers, and distracting ambient noise is replaced with the soothing silence of wireless headphones. At the Silent Conference, attendees are equipped with state-of-the-art headphones that allow them to tune into their preferred sessions, speakers, or workshops effortlessly. No longer will you need to choose between competing talks in the same room or strain to hear a distant keynote speaker. Instead, you can tailor your conference experience to suit your interests and needs, with crystal-clear audio and zero distractions. Whether you're a tech enthusiast eager to explore the latest innovations, a business professional seeking cutting-edge insights, or a curious learner hungry for knowledge, the Silent Conference offers something for everyone. With multiple channels available through your headphones, you can seamlessly switch between sessions, making the most of your conference experience. It's a game-changer for networking, learning, and engaging with thought leaders in your industry.

[nyclimocarservice]

Choices From Limo Rental NYC For Your Wedding Guest

There is no point of complaining or crying over why you invited guests who tried to spoil your day in your limo rental NYC or Brooklyn Car Service when going back home. We all have heard of wedding crashes people who come uninvited to a wedding, dance, eat, drink for free and then leave. But there are people much worse than them. People who are your family and friends but try their best to ruin the most important day of your life. We call them wedding hijackers!

It can be an annoying kid who won’t stop crying, a finicky aunt who keeps complaining about how close her seat is from the speaker, a drunken uncle who won’t know when to stop or frat boys who will keep flirting with the bridesmaids. The point being, these people will be hell-bent to ruin the most important day of your life. But wait these aren’t the only ones!

There are 4 more personalities who will try to steal your thunder and there is very little you can do about it.

The fussy Bridesmaid

There will always be that one lady who will complain about the expenses, the colors, cut or shape of the dress, the makeup and hairdo! Let he know who is the boss. If she can’t come on terms with you, it is best to degrade her from the special treatment she is receiving as a bridesmaid.

The Bossy Mother-in-Law

She will insist on inviting more people and might even suggest that you cut off some unimportant people from your list so that her so-called kitty party friends can come to the wedding. Not only that, she will judge all your choices from Party Bus Rental New York City to the theme of the event.

The egghead Wedding Guest

The Miss-know-it-all! Just because she had attended a few more weddings than you, she will act as the boss and try to impose her judgments on you. Saying things like don’t wear white as it doesn’t go with your skin tone to why you didn’t rent limos instead of NYC Limo Rental, they will basically try to make it their day instead of yours.

The My-life-my-Rules Guest

Such guests wish that they be treated like royalty when the only person to be treated like one is the bride and groom. They will threaten to not show up if you don’t arrange for a separate limo rental NYC for them or let their kids attend the event when they know it is an adults-only event. Call us Now - (917) 722-1119

Source:

https://nyclimocarservice.blogspot.com/2023/05/Choices-From-Limo-Rental-NYC-For-Your-Wedding-Guest.html

[pitubea1910]

“I could kiss you right now”

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Reader

Featuring: Avengers

Words: 2k

Warning: fluff, alcohol, some mild swear words

Request: -

Tags: -

Notes: -

Masterlist

Tony’s parties were among the most dangerous and funny events you could attend in New York City. The man really knew how to throw one. And if they were always a success when there was no reason to have one –except boredom-, imagine how they were when there was an actual reason.

This time, it was Tony’s 40th birthday party.

Usually, he would just use one of the floors of the Stark Tower. However, for this very special occasion, Tony had gone completely mental. He decided not to use the Tower. He didn’t rent a property or a club in New York. He had decided to take you all to Santorini, where he had rented a whole villa for all of you to spend his 40th birthday.

When he gave you the news, a week before the trip, you all were shocked. You thought he was kidding, but when he appeared the next day and gave each one of you a plane ticket to Athens, you saw how serious he was.

So there you were, with your best friends –pretty much family- in the world, drunk in one of the most beautiful places in the world. Along with the rental of the villa, it looked like Tony had bought the whole supply of alcohol of the island for your enjoyment and you weren’t going to let him down.

You had started drinking at 11 in the morning. Piña colada with your breakfast. Was there any better way to start the day? Of course, by sunset, you were more than tipsy. So was everyone else. Even Thor, Bucky and Steve were drunk. Tony had asked Thor to bring all the Asgardian liquor he could find and the god had complied.

“Isn’t this beautiful?” You said, leaning against the white stone wall while looking at the spectacular view of the ocean in front of you, with a cherry vodka in your hand.

“It is”, Wanda, who was beside you, said. “I can’t believe Tony rented this. I mean, look at this view.”

Just then, Steve and Sam walked right past you, laughing at something Sam said. Steve’s eyes and yours met for a moment and he winked at you before he continued walking. They were probably on their way to get more alcohol.

“Yeah… an amazing view”, you mumbled looking at Steve’s ass.

“Make a move already”, Wanda laughed when she saw what you were looking at.

“Should I?” You mumbled, still looking at the corner where Steve had disappeared.

“You’ve been pining for him for months now, so yeah”, she shrugged.

That was true. Even though Steve and you had been friends for a long time and you had never thought of him differently, but something had changed months ago. You didn’t even know when it had changed exactly, but suddenly you found yourself not being able to take your eyes off him, thinking about him at all times, smiling whenever he looked at you, looking for him the moment you walked into a room and so on.

You never made a move or let him know anything. You couldn’t risk your friendship or the team just because of an infatuation that would probably go away at some point.

“We’ll see”, you said and pushed yourself from the wall. “You coming?”

Wanda narrowed her eyes, looking at the ocean, considering your question as it was the most important question ever asked.

“No, I still need some more air”, she finally said.

“We’re next to the pool, literally around the corner… there’s air”, you said.

“Whatever”, she said with a drunk chuckle.

You brought your red cup to your lips and finished the sweet beverage Natasha had prepared and went back to where everyone was.

The villa was huge and it was at the top of one of the many cliffs of the island. Therefore, the stunning views. It had a swimming pool, a hot tub, a tanning and barbecue area and a chill out area. You had no idea how much money Tony had invested in this, but it would have been a lot.

“There she is!” Bucky said when you turned the corner to join everyone.

You had decided that the best place for the core of the party was the swimming pool area, since it was next to the barbecue and had plenty of places to sit down, lay down or just –obviously- take a bath.

“I just went to have some air”, you said.

“Because there’s a huge lack of it around here, right?” Sam teased.

You stuck your tongue out at him and went to the alcohol table to get a refill. You looked around the table for the ice. Once you found it, you threw three ice cubs into your cup and took the vodka, pouring some in the cup as you hummed to the music playing through the speakers.

“Enjoying yourself?”

“Holy shit!” You exclaimed, not expecting anyone to talk to you at that moment.

Steve was quick enough to get the bottle before it crashed into the ground. You had been so focused on your drink that you hadn’t even heard anyone approaching you.

“Shit, sorry”, Steve said with a small smile and placed the bottle on the table.

“It’s okay”, you said as you giggled. “I was just… focused”, you laughed. “And yes, I am enjoying myself, thank you very much”, you finally answered his question.

You took the cherry bottle and poured some into the mix, turning it red. Finally, you looked at Steve, who was busy with his own drink. He looked gorgeous in that white shirt.

It had been Tony’s idea to have a white theme for the party, so everyone was in white. You were wearing a short white dress and brown sandals, with your hair up in a loose pony tail. With a sigh, you looked away from Steve, thinking about what Wanda had said.

Talking about making a move on Steve was easy. Actually making one, was a complete different story. He wasn’t only Steve, your friend; he was also Captain America, a public person with thousands of girls behind him, wasn’t a bit arrogant to think that he would chose you? You knew you had a lot to offer, but you didn’t know if it would be enough.

“You coming?” Steve asked when he finished refilling his cup.

“Huh?” You looked up at him.

“You okay?” He laughed. “You’ve been zooming out all afternoon”, he commented.

“Yeah, yeah… I think I’m just a bit…”

“Drunk?” He said with a teasing smile. You narrowed your eyes at him but smiled anyway. He always made you smile.

“Tipsy”, you said.

“I see”, he nodded and looked around. Suddenly, his lips formed an evil grin. “Maybe I can help you.”

“What are you talking about? I’m not going to bed or anything like that”, you said.

“Do you have your phone with you?” He asked, putting his cup on the table. You shook your head, actually wondering where you had left your phone. “Perfect.”

Without saying another word and without giving you time to react, Steve picked you up, making you drop your cup and spilling its content.

“Steve! What? What are you doing!?” You exclaimed, holding onto him as you saw that he was approaching the pool. “No! Don’t you dare! Rogers!”

“I think you need to sober up a little”, he said, still smiling.

“Go for it, Rogers!” You heard Sam encouraging him.

“Sam, shut up!” You screamed at him. “No, Steve, don’t!”

When Steve got to the edge of the pool, he was supposed to just throw you into it, but you refused to let go of him, so when he tried to let go of you, he found himself being pulled by your weight into the swimming pool as well.

The water wasn’t cold at all, thanks to the outside temperature, but it still caught you completely by surprise. However, you didn’t let go of Steve at any time. If you were going down, you were taking him with you.

“What the fuck?” He said when you two came out to the surface to the laughs of the whole team.

“You threw me into the pool!” You exclaimed, your arms still around his neck.

“And you took me with you”, he said now laughing.

“Well… yeah”, you nodded before you started laughing as well.

“Better?”

“I was okay the whole time! What made you think that throwing me into the water would sober me up?” You laughed.

“Well, I don’t know”, he shrugged. “I watched it in some movies. Aren’t you sober?”

“Sober enough to do this”, you said.

Then, you moved your hands to his shoulders and pushed him under the water before swimming away. You heard him coming to the surface with a gasp so you tried to swim faster to get to the edge, but just when you were about to reach it, Steve grabbed your ankle and pulled you back.

“No!” You laughed.

“You just tried to drown me!”

“Please, don’t, don’t do it”, you said holding onto him as he was a lifeboat.

You hadn’t even realised that you had both your arms and legs around him so he wouldn’t push you under water. It wasn’t until he smiled at you and pushed some hair out of your face that you were aware of it. And it was then when your heart starting beating way too fast and you felt yourself blushing.

“Please”, you whispered. Not really knowing what you were asking for.

“I could kiss you right now”, he whispered, looking at your lips.

You felt the breath leaving your throat as he spoke and your eyes moved down to his lips, just in time to see him running his tongue over them. It was the biggest temptation you had ever felt and, yet, you didn’t dare to close the distance.

“Do it”, you said instead.

Steve smiled slightly and moved his head closer to yours slowly, as he was giving you time to back away. But you weren’t going to do it. Still, he stopped when he was just an inch away from your lips, so close you could feel his breath against you, you could smell the gin mixed with his own scent. It was intoxicating. You bite your lip slightly and it looked like that was the last sign Steve needed.

He pressed his lips against yours slowly, allowing you to savour the moment as he wrapped his arms properly around you. His lips were cold due to the water and yet they felt warm and soft, his tongue slowly found its way into your mouth where he found yours, making a low moan escape your mouth which caused him to smirk into the kiss.

It was then, with his arms around you and his tongue in your mouth, when you realised that your feelings for the Captain were deeper than a crush.

***

Next day you woke up around noon with one of the worst hangover you had ever experienced. It had been one of the best nights of your life and you couldn’t remember most of it. However, you remembered the most important part: kissing Steve.

It hadn’t stopped at the pool. Once that kiss finished and everyone also finished teasing you, there were dozens of them along the night. Stolen ones, quick ones, heated ones. It looked like he had been waiting to kiss you for ages and was now making up for the lose time.

Yet, when you went to bed when the sun was already coming up again, he didn’t go to your room with you. He decided to sleep in the room he was sharing with Bucky. You weren’t exactly disappointed, but you weren’t happy about it either. Maybe he regretted it? Maybe he realised that he shouldn’t have kissed you and wanted to put distance?

There was no way of knowing it, except talking to him, but you didn’t know how to start the conversation. Although getting out of bed was a good start. You put on a pair on ripped jeans, a white short t-shirt and your flip flops. Since there was nothing you could about your hair, you just put it up in a messy bun and made your way out of the room.

The house was completely silent, which made you think that maybe you were the first one to wake up. It was surprising, since you and Steve had been the last ones to go to bed. In the kitchen, you poured yourself a glass of orange juice and walked to the patio where you had spent the whole night. It looked like Tony had hired a cleaning service since the only trace of the party was Bucky’s underwear floating on the pool.

“Morning”, you looked at one of the hammock to find Steve, lying there shirtless and with his sunglasses on.

“Hey”, you said, smiling a little as you remembered last night. “How are you feeling?”

“It’s the last time I’m drinking that Asgardian thing”, was his response.

You chuckled and took a seat on another hammock, next to him.

“You say that every time”, you said.

“Because I always forget how awful it feels in the morning”, he admitted with a smile. “How are you?”

“Like someone smashed my head with Mjolnir”, you smiled.

Steve smiled and turned his head to look up once again. While you drank your juice, you studied his face, wondering how to start the conversation and not finding an answer. He looked relaxed and happy –despite the hangover-. If he regretted anything, he would say something or, at least, wouldn’t be so relaxed, right?

“You’re staring”, he said after a few minutes. “So you probably want to tell me something.”

“Maybe?” You said.

Steve smiled and sat up, taking off his sunglasses. Then, he moved his legs to the side so he was sitting properly and facing you, his forearms on his legs and his eyes focused on you, waiting.

“Shoot”, he said.

“It’s about last night”, you said.

“I figured”, he nodded. “What about it?”

Was he really going to make you explain it? Wasn’t it obvious?

“Well… we… we had fun, right?” He nodded. “And we…”

“Kissed. A lot. I know”, he smiled. “I don’t bite, (Y/N), you can say it if you don’t want it to happen again.”

“What? No! That’s… you want it to happen again?” You asked.

“I don’t know if you’ve noticed”, he said. “But I’m not the kind of guy who goes around kissing someone for no reason.”

“So… there’s a reason?” You asked and he nodded. “What is it?”

“Maybe the same reason that made you kiss me back every single time?”

“Eh…” you looked down at the juice. Steve took the glass from your hands and put it on the floor before taking your hands in his.

“Because I like you, (Y/N)”, he finally said. You looked at him and bit your lip, but you couldn’t help smiling widely.

“You do?” You asked and he nodded again. “So you don’t regret it?”

“In fact”, he said, moving a bit closer. “I think I’m going to kiss you again, just to show you how much I don’t regret it.”

He placed one of his hands on your face to pull you closer and kiss you slowly. This time it was different from last night, it was calmed, slow and perfect. When he pulled away, he pecked your lips briefly before looking at you.

“Then why didn’t you stay the night with me?” You asked.

“Because I didn’t want our first night together to happen when we were completely wasted”, he shrugged. “I want us to remember it perfectly”, he smiled.

Your stomach twisted at his answer. It was probably the best one he could have given you and it made you feel so stupid for thinking that he was going to avoid you. With a small smile, this time it was you the one kissing him again, moving to sit on his lap as you wrapped your arms around him and he hugged you tightly, kissing you back as the morning sun warmed you up in that beautiful morning of May.

[argumentl]

The Freedom of Expression - Ep 44 'Guitar Center' preparing to file for bankruptcy & Urgent announcement.

On screen text:

Notice

27th Dec 2020 (Sun) 23:30~ The Freedom of Expression LIVE #3 Live broadcast.

K: Hi, this is Dir en grey's Kaoru with this week's episode of The Freedom of Expression. Joe, Tasai, welcome. Well, I feel kinda attatched to the topic this week. Joe, please could you..?

J: Yes, its sad news, but.. America's largest musical instrument retail chain 'Guitar Center' is preparing to file for bankruptcy. According to the New York Times, its possible that the chain might go bankrupt due to business difficulties. The chain is the biggest musical instrument chain in America, and has around 300 stores nationwide. Taken over in 2007, the business struggled hard with the switch to online sales, but was pretty successful in two and a half years, and up until this February had been increasing sales for ten quarters in a row. However, because Guitar Center is dependent on in-store sales, the business took a huge hit from the coronavirus pandemic. Sales for the most recent financial year were declared to be $2.3 billion, but the chain has $1.3 billion in debt, and its credit rating was downgraded in April. According to the New York Times, the chain fell behind with interest payments of $45 million this month for the first time ever, and although they have been given 32 hours, there is a chance they will default on thier debts. According to specific sources, Guitar Center have been in contact with thier creditors, will file for bankruptcy within the month, and are considering a plan to withdraw at the start of 2021. 

K: It says within the year, right?

J: Oh, yes, sorry, within the year.

K: The first time I went to this store was about 23 or 24 years ago, when we went to America for recording. We were taken there..me and the other members, but it was so huge!

J: It is huge, yeh.

K: It was in LA, but I never relised that type of place existed.

J: Its Hollywood, right?

K: Yeh.

T: How big was it? Like how many guitars?

K: It was as big as a Japanese supermarket.

T: Ehh?

J: Its as big as a wearhouse, isn't it?

K: Well, yeh, it looks like that from outside too.

T: Was it like the instrument shops you see in Tokyo?

K: No, no, no. They normally don't have drum kits and stuff assembled in stores here, but they do there.

T: Ehh? Thats really big.

J: It is. So Kaoru, did you go there and test out the guitars?

K: I have done. But back then, I didn't really feel any preferences as for the instruments, I just got the feel of the place. I was just like, 'Wow, Im in Guitar Center!'. It was a great feeling seeing all the different instruments.

J: The Americans try out the instruments pretty enthusiastically, don't they?

K: They were really good! haha

J: Right?

K: The people playing...I gradually just stopped trying stuff out there.

J, T: Hahha.

K: But when we go on tours and the equipment breaks or something, we have been to Guitar Center to get replacements before. So if it disappears, we could be in a bit of trouble on tours.

J: Thats right.

T: Yeah.

K: Its a bit risky ordering stuff online to arrive at the venue in time.

T: Of course.

K: If you go to the store you can just get what you need and leave.

J: With 300 stores, it seems like there are quite a lot in big cities, so if anything happened on tour, you could just drop into one of the stores..

K: Yeh yeh yeh.

J: And they would have what you wanted.

T: America is amazing. It says here they worked hard with the move to online sales, but don't you need to test-play a guitar before buying? Is it ok to buy online?

K: Nah, but people buy everything online these days.

J: Yeah.

T: I kinda imagined you would go to the store, play the instrument, and then decide you want to buy it.

K: Well, yeh. But I didn't test out my first guitar before buying it.

J: Oh, is that so?

K: It was a specific model that was sold out, so I had to reserve it..

T: I see.

K: And pay for it in advance, then wait till it arrived.

J: Ehh? But you knew what type of guitar you were getting though, right?

K: Yeh, I knew what shape it would be and stuff, but its cause that was my first guitar.

T: By the way, how old were you when you bought your first guitar?

K: Around first year of high school.

T: Ahh, I see.

J: Ahh. Eh?! First year of high school when you bought your first guitar?

K: Yeh. I started playing a bit earlier than that using borrowed guitars.

T: So, you thought, 'I want one', and bought your first one, right?

J: I bought my first electric guitar when i was in Junior High school. Everyone starts a band at that age, don't they? And I thought, if Im gonna do it, then I should be on guitar, right? With drums you really need space at home to set them up, so I couldn't buy a set. I bought a kind of cheap guitar/amp set for beginners. But I couldn't play the F chord properly, it was pretty frustrating.

T: This will make me look clueless, but Kaoru, how many guitars have you actually bought?

K: I havn't really..

T: Oh, not many?

K: No, I havn't actually bought that many...Like 10? I usually have them made through contracts with ESP.

J: But by now you have signature models and stuff, right?

K: Yeah. I mean, I will buy a guitar myself if I want to play it at home or something.

J: Ahh. Well, its kinda sad seeing these musical instrument stores disappear.

K: I've always had the impression that musical instruments don't sell in large numbers anyway.

J: But..well, i've done some interviews in relation to this, and it seems like musical instruments have been selling quite well during covid. Especially in America, it seems like there was a lot of people in the countryside playing guitar at home. But as for sales, they would probably buy online, especially during covid when you couldn't go to the store in person, I think some of the stores would have been closed. So even if online sales have increased...like with Guitar Center, if you have that many stores..there will be the burden of maintenance costs, staff wages, rent, and somehow the debt will grow and grow. But if online buying continues to develop in this way, we might see an increasing trend of people who play guitar without having tested it first.

K: Hmm, yeh, they won't be trying them out first. ???*1

J, T: Yeah, thats right.

J: What are your thoughts on this, Kaoru? About the concept of a test-run disappearing?

K: I wonder whether young people will still buy guitars. I think the people buying them will be like wealthy people etc. But I don't think young people these days are that interested in buying a guitar and starting a band. If they do become interested in musical instruments, I think it will be more and more online sales.

J: I wonder how thats gonna go, with the guitar makers and musical instrument shops struggling..

K: But even if guitars sell, I wonder if there is anyone who will still buy amps?

J: Ahh, I see.

K: Young people these days don't really buy amps, do they? There are amp simulators now, so you can buy one of these machines and input the data digitally, and then just use a regular speaker.

J: And thats just enough, right?

K: Well, you can do it like that, yeh. And you can simulate lots of different types of amp, so you can get specific sounds. People probably aren't buying the real thing these days.

J: But the subtleness of the sound is different, isn't it?

K: Its totally different.

J: Right? Its completely different. So its...Well, for peope like us, we've heard the sound coming through amps at live houses, we've been hearing that kind of sound for years, but for young people, in one sense a different sound is...

K: (*Kaoru talking about amps/simulators. I don't know enough about amps to really get what he means here, sorry!*)

J: Ah, so if they start thinking there is only one choice, rather than listening to the old types and making a reasoned decision?

K: Yes. So even now, if you go to a Japanese musical instrument shop, there used to be amps all lined up, like Marshall or Fender etc. Now, there are no amps, but many types of simulator machines. You can just buy them and take them straight home. It seems like they sell well. So if you find one guitar that is easy to play, and you have one of these simulators, you can make all sorts of sounds.

J: Yeah.

T: I see.

J: Like usally, if the neck is different, the responding sound will differ, but you will be able to compensate for that with a simulator, so..

K: I don't think many people do that.

J: Oh, right.

K: But I don't know.

Kami: Um, can I ask something? Um, I've played guitar before. But I got blisters straight away, and my wrist started to hurt. Does that happen to you too, Kaoru?

T, J: Haha

T: Thats a grest question to ask a guitarist, Kami.

K: Well, during recording...or like when recording something all in one go, it does start to hurt, haha.

T: Haha

J: If you are playing non-stop? But hey, I wonder how this situation will look in 10 or 20 years?

K: There'll be no music stores like Tower Records etc by then.

J: Yeh, yeh.

T: Hmm, yeh.

J: Old guys will be sad. 

K: But even with cars and stuff, there is that kind of rental service now, isn't there?

T: Carsharing?

K: Yeah. So won't car showrooms eventually disappear?

J: I think so. And with clothes, there's a high possibility that stores will start to disappear.

K: Oh, now you mention clothes, do you remember that online thing we talked about before where they put the clothes that you like onto your photo?

J: Yeah, yeah.

K: I had thought about doing that, but the site has shut down!

J: Ah, its over?

K: Yeah, so I couldn't do it.

J: Oh, thats a shame.

T: It is.

J: So many businesses have been hit by covid, I think the view that we see before us will be a lot different by next year, or the year after. Getting aound this will have an effect on the way we live or express ourselves, I feel.

T: I lived on an island in Kagoshima when I was little. We had a Shamisen in our house, it had a kind of plastic stick to play it.

J: Can you play, Tasai?

T: No, not at all. I only ever just picked it up sometimes for fun.

J: You could show us a Kagoshima folk song to finish.

T: Haha, no no no. Why?

J: I don't know. To wrap it up?

T: No, it wouldn't wrap it up, haha. 

K: In that case, Joe, you should play guitar.

J: Lets perform together sometime!

K: No way!

T: Joe!

K: No thanks, haha.

J: I'd gain prestige by playing with Kaoru from Dir en grey. There would be no merit for you though, Kaoru.

T: I'd go numb, I wouldn't be able to play at all if I were you. haha. Playing next to a pro.

J: Well, what can I say? I have big dreams. No, but if we did play together, I'd practice, I'd give it my best.

T: Of course.

K: Well, yeh.

J: If, for example, we played together on this youtube channel next year, I'd be serious about practicing.

Kami: I'll do it too.

J: Kami too?!

K: Hahaha

J: Would you, Kami?

Kami: I would.

K: But your hands would start to hurt.

T: Right.

Kami: I'd practice.

J: You'll practice? In that case, we could have Tasai on Shamisen too, and all play together.

T: Shamisen is ok? Well, I guess its a stringed instrument like guitar.

J: Lets announce something.

*...silence...*

K: Hahahaha

J: No-ones getting on board with this?

K: hahaha

J: Oh, nevermind then! haha.

K: Well, if the opportunity arises, right?

J: Yes, if the opportunity arises.

K: Ok, we'll finish here for this week. Please subscribe. Thank you very much.

On screen text:

Notice

27th Dec 2020 (Sun) 23:30~ The Freedom of Expression LIVE #3 Live broadcast.

*1,2 Couldn't catch.

* Feel free to inform if it looks like I've misinterpreted some of the amp/simulator talk.

[avnycrentals-blog]

Rent Monitors In New York City For Your Event or Conference

Organizing an event or conference in New York City is a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. Renting monitor equipment for your event can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience for attendees. In this article, you'll learn about the various monitor rental options available in New York City, from small to large screens. You'll also discover how to select the perfect monitors for your event and how to ensure they're properly installed and functioning on the day of.

If you are planning an event or conference in New York City, one of the most important things to consider is ensuring that your audio and visual elements are top-notch. With so many professionals in attendance, it's crucial that you have equipment that can handle the demands of a large crowd. One way to ensure that your sound system is up to par is by renting monitors from professional audio rental services in NYC.

Renting monitors for your event can provide numerous benefits. Firstly, they allow speakers and presenters to hear themselves clearly, ensuring that they are able to deliver their message effectively. Additionally, high-quality monitors can help eliminate feedback and background noise during presentations, providing a more polished experience for attendees.

When looking for best professional audio rental services in NYC, it's important to choose a company with experience and expertise in providing equipment for events and conferences.

Monitors Rentals New York Offers Meeting & Event Services in NY

Monitors Rentals New York is proud to announce their new meeting and event services in New York. The company offers a wide range of professional audio and video services for events of all sizes. From corporate meetings to weddings, Monitors Rentals New York can help provide the perfect audio-visual experience for any occasion.

The company offers top-of-the-line equipment rentals such as monitors, projectors, microphones, sound systems, and more. All equipment is backed by friendly customer service and technical support to ensure the smooth running of any event or gathering. Clients can work one-on-one with an experienced technician to design a custom solution that meets their exact needs.

Monitors Rentals New York provides clients with a comprehensive package that includes setup and delivery of equipment, onsite technical support, complete audio and video production services, and more.

Enhance Your Meetings & Events with Professional Audio Rentals in NYC

For meetings and events in the New York City area, organizers can now enhance their audio quality with professional rentals from [company name]. Whether for corporate conferences, weddings, or any other special occasion, this new offering ensures audio needs are taken care of and makes the event sound as good as it looks.

We are  offers a variety of audio equipment for rent including speakers, microphones, amplifiers, mixers, and more. All of the available gear is state-of-the-art and perfect for any type of event. They also provide technical support to ensure that all sound systems are set up properly and functioning correctly throughout the event.

No matter the size or scope of your meeting or event in NYC, [company name] can provide professional audio solutions to make it sound great. All rental packages come at an affordable rate and can be tailored to fit your specific needs.

In conclusion, Monitors Rentals New York is a great resource for those looking to rent out a monitor and get the most out of their live event, studio project, or other technology needs. With competitive rates, reliable customer service, and an array of monitors to choose from, it's easy to see why this company has become one of the top rental providers in New York City.

[captain-kelli]

Call Sign: Renaissance // 02

02. Stilettos + Aviators

Pairings: Steve Rogers x Reader, Sam Wilson x Reader (platonic) Chapter Summary: Sam pulls you out of diplomatic negotiations to go to New York, drumming up old memories along the way. Word Count: 1800 Warnings: language, minor touch on PTSD, mentions of alcohol A/N: I did as much research as I could on the Air Force’s Pararescue Program, but I am a civilian. Please feel free to ignore any subject matter mistakes I might have made. Also, as a reminder, italicized text on a single line is an internal thought. 

Mosley had offered you a town car and a bodyguard when you arrived, but you didn’t think all that was necessary. Driving yourself meant you could get to know the city on your terms and not rely on anyone to get you anywhere. Like the airport. On short notice.

This stupid motherfucker.

Before heading that way, you stop at your hotel to grab the rest of your belongings and check out. Throwing your bags into the back of your rental car, you slide into the front seat and roll the windows down. “Corazón Espinado” is pumping through the speakers as you weave through the city.

Soledad is a place untouched by time, largely staying the same since the 1600’s. Pastels paint Neruda’s capital across palaces, churches, and homes alike. Adding to the palette of colors are the flowers that pour over balconies that line the narrow, meandering streets.

It’s the middle of the day and the city is bustling like always. Its liveliness reminds you of how quickly you fell in love with Neruda. 

With its people. 

Your work here felt unfinished and, while Sam’s call was not entirely unwelcome, it was a reminder of a life you left behind. 

Your application to the pararescue program had caused some confusion among the higher-ups. 

You were a woman. 

A woman had yet to graduate from special warfare training. Hell, you weren’t even sure if they would accept your application, but that didn’t stop you from applying anyway. When the smug guy behind the registrar desk at the Air Force Academy asked you why, exactly,  you were so interested in the program, you rolled your eyes. Pushing your chair back, it squeaked as you rose to challenge him.

“I was told you save lives. Do you not?” 

Incredulous, the guy looked at the older gentleman to his right. “Of course we do, lady.” 

You smiled at him and clapped your hands together. “Wonderful! Then that’s where I need to be.” 

The closer you get to the airport, the madder you become. 

Who does he think he is? 

This asshole was calling you out of meetings and beckoning you to New York. Without so much as a head’s up! Didn’t even bother giving you time to change. And he cost you your job. 

Nevermind that leaving Neruda could potentially unravel all of the progress you had made. What would that mean for the country and its citizens?

By the time you finally arrive at the airport, you are livid. You storm down the tarmac in your old bomber jacket and aviators paired with a pencil skirt and stilettos - fully preparing to give Sam Wilson a piece of your mind. 

Instead, when you finally lay eyes on him, you find yourself hoisted into the air and spun around.

80 weeks. A year and a half. 

That’s how long the pararescue training program took. It was agonizing, pushing you in ways you didn’t think possible. Sure, the physical demands were tortuous, but you had expected those. It was the mental marathon that tired you. Being the only woman didn’t help.

Sam was the first real friend you made in the program, the two of you bonding over your similar taste in music. He shared his Motown playlist with you and you’d play Miles Davis on repeat for him. He was your lifeline. 

Him and, soon after, another guy in the group.

“Sam Wilson, you asshole, put me down!”

Sam is laughing as he sets your feet back on the ground. “Aw, c’mon Y/N. You can’t be mad at me for this.”

You want to be mad. You really do. 

“Oh really? Let’s see if I can. Let’s see if I can find it in me!”

But it’s Sam.

You and Sam have been friends for a long time and when you locked the rest of the world out, it was Sam who found a way back in. 

It’s practically impossible to stay mad at the guy.

“Aren’t you a little glad to see me?” Sam is offering his best smile because he knows he’s in deep shit.

You sigh and snatch the sunglasses off of your face, your hand pinching your forehead in frustration. 

“Fine. Yes. But listen,” you shake your finger in his face, “you can’t just pull me out of a job to hang ou...who’s this?”

Your eyes roam over the tall blonde behind Sam. 

No, absolutely not. 

He’s not wearing the red and blue uniform the world is accustomed to seeing. Instead, he’s donning jeans and a black leather jacket, his broad shoulders hiding underneath. He has on a pair of aviators that match yours, so it’s hard to see his face. 

It can’t be. 

Sam looks over his shoulder and remembers he brought company. Slapping his buddy on the back, he introduces you to Steve Rogers. Like it’s some casual thing to meet Captain America. 

What could these two possibly want with me?

You extend your hand to shake Steve’s. “We need your help, Y/N. We wouldn’t be asking if it wasn’t important.”

You glance between the two boys. “Sure, why not?” you throw your bag at Sam. “But I’m flying the jet.” 

As you head that way, stilettos clicking against the pavement, Steve finds it hard to take his eyes off of you. 

“Easy buddy,” Sam tells him. “You have no idea what you’re in for with that one.”

To be fair, it was a dive bar - it was supposed to be gross. 

No one in your squadron seemed to give a damn anyway. The group had just finished the last and most brutal course, so everyone was more than ready to blow off a little steam. You were sitting at a table with Sam and Riley nursing a tequila and tonic when you finally noticed the upright piano in the back. 

It wasn’t anything special, old by the looks of it. You wandered over, drifting your fingers along the keys, surprised to find it tuned. For the next hour, you serenaded the bar with jazz classics. 

The boys gave you the nickname that would become your call sign that night - Renaissance. 

One hand on the stick, you use the other to gesture wildly at Sam as you, not for the first time, lecture him at 30,000 feet. Steve took the cue to disappear a while ago. This was an 8 hour flight and he had no idea how long this argument would last.

“I traded in my wings, Sam. I traded them in for a desk. By choice. So what the fuck am I doing on a jet with you?”

Sam waits. He knows better than to interrupt you when you’re on a tear.

“I got out. Losing Riley was…. it was devastating. I went to Georgetown, graduated, and became a paper pusher. And ya know what? I have yet to lose anyone while working in an office.”

You sigh. Digging all of this up is exhausting. Which brings you back around to your original point.

“And I can’t even begin to believe that you think you can just call me in the middle of a diplomatic mission to come play hooky with you in New York. I was so close. I had the peace agreements literally in their hands to sign and you pull me out!”

It was late. You had stayed behind at the base to tend to a few wounded civilians while some of the other guys flew out for a standard PJ rescue op. The stars shone bright in the desert sky that night, it was perfect conditions for flying - especially with the EXO-7 Falcon they were piloting. 

“Stella by Starlight” played in your headphones as you sat in your cot sketching in an old journal. The trumpet’s song was a lullaby that helped you unwind at the end of a long day. You were just about to call it when Sam came into your tent, noticeably distraught. 

“He’s gone, Y/N. Riley’s gone.”

Seeing a pause in your rant, Sam seizes the opportunity to get a word in.

“Listen, Y/N, I know what you’re feeling. I lost Riley, too. I watched it happen. The guilt, the regret. I get it.”

He takes a sharp breath.

“And I respect your decision to stay out of this line of work. I do. Even though I do kinda miss you. But the call came from up high. Ross heard you and I served together in the past, so he asked me to reach out.”

Ross. 

“Ross? As in, Secretary of State, Thaddeus Ross?” 

"That’s the one. And the way he tells it, your old boss found a replacement to keep the negotiations going so I’m sure everything will be just fine in your absence.”

Your bearings are set for the compound, but your course still flies directly over New York City, its bright skyline illuminating a now darkened horizon.  It was an upside of this whole thing, coming home. 

When you came home from Afghanistan, everything was exactly the way you remembered it. Everything except for you. Too much had happened for you to go back to who you were before, but sitting in your apartment crying every day wasn’t an option either.

If you were truly done with the military, you were going to need a plan B. Foreign policy seemed like a solid one, so you applied and were accepted into Georgetown’s graduate program in Washington, DC.

In between classes and defending your dissertation, you attended Sam’s counseling sessions at the VA hospital. He was right, there was comfort in knowing you weren’t the only one that came home with baggage. Unpacking it piece by piece is what helped you move forward.

Graduation came quickly. With Sam’s help, you managed to position the cap on your head in a way that made it look a little less ridiculous. He strung the honors cords around your neck and hugged you before you rushed to commencement. 

The day after, you hopped on a plane. It would be another year before you went back to New York.

After the long flight, the last thing you wanted to do was sit in a debriefing meeting. What you wanted was a shower and something to eat. Definitely a change of clothes. And, most importantly, sleep.

“Listen, fellas. I’d love to stay, but there’s a guy waiting for me back in the city. Any chance we can start this little chat tomorrow?” You wait for an answer. 

Steve shifts on his feet and looks over at Sam before responding, “Yeah...of course. D’ya need a ride?"

[urexnoraz]

Choice new york comapanies

Compare our health plans to seek out one that finest meets your wants for managed long run care at house. Choose the trusted health plan that has been taking care of New Yorkers with advanced health needs for decades.

He has been a featured speaker on numerous real estate panels, and quoted in several publications corresponding to The Wall Street Journal, The Real Deal, and Crain’s New York Business. He is an completed accountant skilled in construction accounting and general financial management. His obligations embrace growing the month-to-month financials, budgeting, billing evaluation, debt service oversight, payroll, and general financial evaluation. Mr. Stein developed technical abilities in addition to analytical skills referring to actual estate, structured finance and portfolio administration. He holds a Bachelor of Science diploma from New York University majoring in Finance and Marketing and a Juris Doctorate degree from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law.

Most assisted dwelling and impartial senior communities are still taking new residents, even though they're closed for guests. We are actively working with emergency strikes and any deliberate strikes for the Spring/Summer. NYSERDA presents goal info and analysis, progressive programs, technical experience, and support to assist New Yorkers enhance vitality effectivity, lower your expenses, use renewable energy, and cut back reliance on fossil fuels. A public profit company, NYSERDA has been advancing energy options and working to protect the environment since 1975. NYSERDA has developed the toolkit under to help native governments and CCA Administrators to develop CCA programs in New York State. Additional toolkit parts are still underneath improvement, and those parts shall be added to the toolkit as they're accomplished. NYSERDA also anticipates that this toolkit shall be a dynamic resource, reflecting further developments in the continuing evolution of the energy markets as they have an effect on CCA efforts. Choice new york comapanies

Mr. Stern manages a portfolio of twelve buildings consisting of cooperative and condominium associations, as well as, rental buildings, in Brooklyn, Long Island City and Manhattan. Before beginning at Goldin Management, Mr. Stern worked as an assistant property supervisor for a landlord on the Upper East Side of Manhattan for a number of years. Dan Stern joined Goldin Management in 2018 as an assistant property manager and has since taken on the total range of responsibilities as a property manager. Mr. Nicholas is extremely self-motivated, hardworking and committed to the needs of each resident in every building. He nonetheless believes in the golden rule of treating others the way you would like to be handled.

New York Medicaid Choice is the managed care enrollment program of the New York State Department of Health. The hyperlink under is to the newest stories in a Google news search for the phrases New York education alternative. The following is a list of recent constitution faculty payments that have been launched in or passed by the New York state legislature. To study more about every of these payments, click on the bill title. According to the Coalition for Responsible Home Education, "few states acquire information on the number of youngsters being homeschooled." As such, it's tough to supply accurate comparative knowledge about homeschooling within the states.

Choice did a great job serving to me transfer ownership of Con Ed from my previous apt to my new one. Choice takes care of our, and I am joyful to have them as a high quality enterprise throughout these exhausting times. Family Choice of New York is comprised of a gaggle of dedicated professionals who've come collectively to supply care and assist to seniors and people faced with continual and/or complicated illness.

As a matter of policy, BBB does not endorse any product, service or business. BBB remains operational and centered on serving our business group. Ilana Sherizen joined Choice New York Management in February 2020 as an assistant property supervisor. Throughout her career, Ms. Keqaj has been involved in all aspects of administration; from leasing, dealing with tenants, and supervising upkeep employees. Ms. Keqaj oversaw new website development which included project administration and contract negotiations. Her expertise, mixed with her intensive community of brokers and landlords has given her the ability to totally evaluate and assess many layers of the leasing course of to effectively manage relationships. She has an intimate working information of the native market and has intensive experience working with legal compliance.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there have been roughly 1.7 million homeschooled students within the United States as of 2012. This accounted for roughly 3.4 percent of the whole college-age inhabitants. The analysis on its impact on voter turnout is, nonetheless, mixed, he mentioned, and voter schooling is a should, as American voters are accustomed to voting for only one candidate, not five. Choice ny management

Shaun Lue joined Choice New York in 2016 as Portfolio Controller. He is chiefly liable for the financial reporting on the actual property portfolio through the management of the accounting department and enforcement of coverage and procedures to ensure monetary accuracy. Mr. Lue is a member of The Young Real Estate Professionals of NY. Prior to joining Choice New York, Mr. Lue served in various roles within the accounting department at Related Development Companies. Having efficiently constructed, operated, and exited two NYC real estate brokerages over the previous 26 years, Kurland is a seasoned and highly revered actual property entrepreneur and business chief.

Amy Loprest, govt director of the New York City Campaign Finance Board, mentioned that the board has been engaged on its academic efforts all year, and a proper public awareness marketing campaign will launch soon. On Tuesday night time, six New York City Council members filed go well with in State Supreme Court in Manhattan seeking to stop town from starting the brand new voting system. One leading Black mayoral candidate — Eric Adams, the Brooklyn borough president, who as soon as supported the system — now says it’s being rushed. For Health Professionals Digital instruments, policies, steerage and supplies you and your staff have to deliver high-high quality service to your sufferers and shoppers in VNSNY CHOICE well being plans.

[audreykims]

Choice ny management

You can request a service, pay a invoice, get insured, apply online, and access necessary documents.Choice new york companies

Manhattan, NY It was a profitable evening of commercial actual estate networking on the West 79th St. Boat Basin summer season cocktail get together overlooking the Hudson River. Hosted by Highcap Group, Choice NY Management & Levy Tolman LLP over 200 real estate professionals attended from various backgrounds including landlords, property managers, attorneys, title firms, architects and builders. The occasion was held in appreciation for purchasers and colleagues but in addition served as a fantastic platform for networking amongst the visitors. Goldin Choice Management is a full service actual property firm which makes a speciality of property management. We proudly serve New York City with our confirmed brand of professional, effective, and personable services. At Choice New York Management, we offer property administration, accounting, asset management and strategic advisory providers to buildings throughout the NYC metropolitan space.choice new york

Choice New York Management takes a brand new approach to an old business. John Nicholas joined Goldin Management in March 2017 as a Property Manager. Since this time, Mr. Nicholas has been managing several condominiums and cooperative house buildings. Dan Miller joined Goldin Management in 2001 as a Senior Property Manager. Throughout his a few years with the Goldin he has served cooperative and condominium boards as their property manager and nonetheless manages many from his first year.

We provide custom-made administration plans for Co-ops, Condos, and rental buildings. Our philosophy is to manage each constructing as if we were one of the homeowners. We improve our core enterprise of property administration with ancillary, however important, services similar to industrial mortgage brokerage, project administration, staffing, and actual estate brokerage. Dmitriy Baskin joined Goldin Management Inc. in November 2000 as an Assistant Property Manager. Since that point, Mr. Baskin was promoted a number of times; first to Property Manager, then Senior Property Manager and at present holds the position of the Director of Property Management.

Having efficiently constructed, operated, and exited two NYC actual property brokerages over the previous 26 years, Kurland is a seasoned and highly respected real property entrepreneur and trade chief. He has been a featured speaker on quite a few real property panels, and quoted in a number of publications corresponding to The Wall Street Journal, The Real Deal, and Crain’s New York Business. Drew Donovan joined Choice New York Management initially of 2016 as Director of Accounting.

Please use the dropdown menus beneath or the navigation bar above to entry the resident and consumer portals. Choice New York Companies is the quickest rising property administration group in the NYC metropolitan space because of our dedication to superior customer support to both owners and residents.

Mr. Baskin’s current place contains managing a portfolio of a number of buildings, being a staff chief, and go to person for other property managers at Goldin Management. Mr. Baskin also completed courses for “Commercial Property Management” and “Residential/Private Income Property Management” and holds certificates of completion from Pace University. Prior to becoming a member of Goldin Management, Mr. Baskin graduated Abraham Lincoln High School in 1996 and Brooklyn College in 2000 majoring in Business, Management and Finance. Mr. Baskin is known to be very organized, nicely spoken, ethical, and highly motivated. Mr. Baskin also possesses deep data of all aspects of property administration expertise and is understood for his beautiful attention to element. Choice New York Management, LLC is a multi-disciplined actual property management firm offering a broad array of companies, together with business and residential property management, leasing, advisory and project administration.

He believes that his success is derived from his accessibility and timely responses to the problems at hand. Mr. Miller strives to at all times serve his purchasers in what is of their best interests and meet their expectations for skilled service it doesn't matter what issues arise.

Currently at Choice NY Management, Adam is a Principal directly involved in all aspects of the operations of the business. From managing properties, overseeing workers, recruiting new employees, pursuing investments, implementing new expertise and new efficiencies, and procuring enterprise improvement alternatives. Prior to AFC, he was a Senior Private Banker with Indymac Bank. Mr. Feldman is often requested to talk on an array of real property matters. He also teaches a seamless training course for Real Estate Brokers titled, “Commercial Property Management,” as an adjunct teacher for the Real Estate Board of New York. Mr. Feldman focuses his day to day actions on business improvement, model awareness technique, employees recruitment, talent retention, and select shopper advisory engagements. Click here to access Yardi and view your building and account data.

Mr. Miller has a college diploma from the University of New Hampshire. Thomas Sussewell joined Goldin Management in 1995 as a Property Manager. Mr. Sussewell possesses expertise in actual property management, business operations, business mortgage brokerage, project management, and customer service. Mr. Sussewell obtained his BS diploma at NYU, Stern where he double majored in Finance and International Business. Mr. Sussewell obtained his MBA at Baruch the place he concentrated in Accounting.