#Tree Removal in Manhattan

[xtruss]

Kayaking The Waters That Shaped New York City

As NYC Turns 400, One of the Best Ways of Understanding What Propelled the City's Astronomical Growth is by Paddling the Rivers that Built it.

— Eliot Stein | Wednesday 11 September 2024

Credit: Markley Boyer & Eric W Sanderson, from Mannahatta: A Natural History of New York City

Somewhere near Inwood Hill Park, home to the last native forests on the Island of Manhattan, the jackhammering racket of the city softened and an orchestra of crickets trilled in unison. I paddled closer to the water's edge, where a tangle of gnarled tree roots gripped boulders deposited during the last Ice Age. Just then, a great blue heron swooped low, landing on a small sandy cove before disappearing into the reeds towards the last remnant of the original salt marshes that once surrounded Manhattan.

"Finally," I thought, after spending the day kayaking around one of the most man-made places on the planet. "Maybe this is something the island's original residents might recognise."

This year marks the 400th anniversary of the founding of New York City – or, more accurately, The Dutch Settlement of New Amsterdam that would grow to become one of the world's greatest cities. It's a complicated milestone, and for years officials have been grappling over what, if anything, they should do to observe the event.

According to historian Russell Shorto, the founding of New Amsterdam 400 years ago is when America began. Credit: Getty Images

As Russell Shorto, author of the best-selling book The Island at the Center of the World explained, this tiny Dutch settlement effectively birthed "The World's First Modern City" – a place powered by pluralism and capitalism under the promise that anyone, regardless of where they came from, could make something of themselves.

"If what made America great was its ingenious openness to different cultures, the small triangle of land at the southern tip of Manhattan island is the birthplace of that idea: this island city would become the first multiethnic, upwardly mobile society on America's shores, a prototype of the kind of society that would be duplicated throughout the country and around the world,'' he writes. More so than Boston, Plymouth Rock or Jamestown, "Manhattan Is Where America Began."

At the same time, the Dutch created this multiethnic society by removing Native people from their lands and importing enslaved Africans to build much of Lower Manhattan. "They brought tolerance and intolerance; capitalism and colonialism. We have to process both of these things in a nuanced way that acknowledges their achievements and failures," Shorto told the BBC.

"Manhattan Is Where America Began."

As a result, the few events honouring the city's quadricentennial have tried to carefully balance how this settlement forever shaped the nation with its dark legacies of land dispossession and slavery. "We're viewing this anniversary more as a commemoration as opposed to a celebration," said Sarah Cooney, the executive director of the Holland Society of New York, which is co-sponsoring a picnic on 14 September at Governors Island, where the Dutch Landed in 1624 before permanently settling in southern Manhattan soon after.

Those early immigrants never could have foreseen that the far-flung fur trading outpost they established would one day rise to become the most linguistically diverse city in history, nor that it would play host to a remarkable experiment that continues to this day: to see whether all the peoples of the world could live together in a single place.

New York City is believed to be the most linguistically diverse city to have ever existed. Credit: Getty Images

In many ways, Manhattan stands as the ultimate triumph of man over nature. But while it may be tempting to view it today less as an island and more as a cement reef covered by steel skyscrapers and manicured parks, the story of how this relatively small 23-square-mile enclave grew to become the economic capital of the world is directly attributable to a natural phenomenon many New Yorkers have long forgotten: its access to water.

"It's all about the water. The entire city is about the water," said Captain Jonathan Boulware, the president and CEO of the South Street Seaport Museum in Manhattan. "The growth of New York into the city we know today as a global capital, a cultural capital and a multicultural city, every single aspect of its identity is rooted in water and its connections to the rest of the world."

And so, as the city reflects on the many things that have made New York "New York" over the last 400 years, I lowered myself into a kayak and set out on a 30-mile circumnavigation of Manhattan in hopes of better understanding the one thing that made it all possible. It turns out that this nine-hour journey isn't just one of the most unique ways of seeing New York City, but a dramatic reminder of how Manhattan is rediscovering its relationship to the very rivers that shaped it.

A Front Door Into The New World

In 1609, Henry Hudson, an English explorer hired by the Dutch to find the fabled Northwest Passage to Asia, steered his ship from the churning waters of the Atlantic into an immense protected bay. He pushed 150 miles upstream on the mile-wide river that would one day bear his name, hoping it led to China. It didn't. But while Hudson had failed to find a faster route to the riches of the East, he stumbled on one of the world's largest natural harbours.

Sheltered from the sea's wrath by Staten Island and Long Island and stretching across a 770-mile network of navigable waterways extending into the continent's interior, this geographical gem wasn't just "a safe and convenient haven, wherein 1,000 ships may ride in safety", as the Dutch chronicler Adriaen van der Donck wrote in 1650, but a front door into the untapped resources of the New World.

The Dutch settled Manhattan because of its incredible access to (and protection from) the sea, and its network of navigable waterways into the interior. Credit: Getty Images

"The harbour of New York is like no other. It's a marvel. It's wide, it's so deep it rarely freezes and it serves as the nexus for two bodies of water [the Hudson and East rivers] that come together to transport goods," said Dr Louise Mirrer, president and CEO of the New-York Historical Society.

This immense commercial potential is what attracted the Dutch to Manhattan from the start. At a time when the most efficient way to move cargo over long distances was by water, the Dutch Republic catapulted from relative obscurity to become one of the wealthiest and most powerful nations in the world by controlling maritime trade. It's also what made Manhattan distinct from other early US settlements. Unlike the Puritans who founded Boston, the Quakers who came to Philadelphia and the Catholics who arrived in Maryland, the Dutch didn't settle Manhattan to worship in peace; they came to make money.

"The Dutch basically created a colony dedicated to capitalism. They didn't really care about religion; they were open to anybody involved in commerce," said Dr Gretchen Sorin, a historian and the director of the Cooperstown Graduate Program at the State University of New York at Oneonta. "And so from the very beginning, New York has always been an incredibly diverse place." According to one document, by 1646 the island was home to some "400-500 men of different sects and nations" speaking about "18 different languages".

But as Shorto explained, "Manhattan was a cultural crossroads long before Europeans arrived there. It wasn't just the Lenape who used it to fish and exchange goods, but also the Shinnecock and other [Native Algonquin] peoples from the whole region who came to take advantage of the harbour and rivers."

Before the Dutch arrived, Mannahatta was an incredibly biodiverse island. Credit: Markley Boyer & Eric W Sanderson, from Mannahatta: A Natural History of New York City

After the Dutch purchased Mannahatta or "Island of Many Hills", as it was known, from the Lenape in 1626, more and more seafaring entrepreneurs poured into the harbour to navigate up these rivers, shipping beaver pelts, tobacco and grain from the continent's interior back to Europe. The Dutch eventually declared the settlement a free-trade zone in 1640, and by the time the British took it at cannon point in 1664 and renamed it after the Duke of York, this ambitious, polyglot little seaport had planted the seeds of religious tolerance, individualism and enterprise that would eventually spread across the nation.

Mannahatta: An Ecological Oasis

When the Dutch arrived on Mannahatta, it was a stunningly biodiverse place. In his book Mannahatta: A Natural History of New York City, landscape ecologist Eric W Sanderson details that in 1609 the island was home to 66 miles of rivers and streams, 233 species of birds, 32 types of reptiles and amphibians, 70 kinds of trees, 24 species of mammals and 55 different ecosystems – which is more, per acre, than Yosemite and Yellowstone or a typical coral reef or rainforest of the same size. "If Mannahatta existed today as it did then," he writes, "it would be the crowning glory of American national parks."

The British soon surpassed the Dutch as the greatest maritime empire on Earth and Manhattan became a nexus point for the flow of goods and people around the globe. Coopers, blacksmiths, sailmakers and shipbuilders began flooding to the island city, and by the 1770s, New York had become "the breadbasket of the Atlantic", shipping wheat and timber to Britain and importing rum, molasses and sugar – as well as enslaved people – from the Caribbean and Africa. The city would burn at the end of the American Revolution, but over the next few decades, it would become the largest place in the western hemisphere – all thanks to water.

In 1795, New York replaced Philadelphia as the country's main port, and as more ships from around the world flooded in and out of the harbour, the city expanded north from the southern tip of Manhattan at astonishing speed. Old Dutch farms and English estates were quickly carved up into smaller and smaller plots until DeWitt Clinton (arguably the greatest or worst New Yorker in history) spearheaded two ideas that would forever change Manhattan.

The first was to level the entire natural geography of the island to accommodate its growing seaport. In 1811, the city filled in its marshes, paved over its spring-fed ponds and levelled the oak and hemlock forests where wolves and bear once roamed, replacing it all with a massive 11,000-acre street grid that turned this "island of hills" into an island of rectangles.

By 1900, New York harbour was the busiest port in the world and Manhattan was the centre of a new global supply chain. Credit: Alamy

The second was the construction of a 363-mile-long ditch connecting the Hudson River to the Great Lakes. When the Erie Canal opened in 1825, it not only paved the way for Manhattan to become an industrial juggernaut by giving it direct water access to the Midwest, but transformed the young nation by allowing the mass movement of goods, ideas and people across the country. The city was on its way to becoming the busiest port in the World and the centre of a new global supply chain connecting the continent with the rest of the globe. As Manhattan exploded with industry and became the place to do business, so many immigrants steamed into the harbour that according to Census records, by 1860 nearly 70% of adults in New York City were born outside the US.

Manhattan: America's Emporium

The book Gotham: A History of New York City to 1898 reveals that by 1836, 62% of all imports to the US came through Manhattan, and on a single day that year, 921 boats on the East River waited to dock on South Street, while an another 320 waited on the Hudson.

"If you look at aerial photos of Manhattan [in the late 1800s and early 1900s], it's so completely ringed with piers that it looks like a porcupine," Boulware said. "These ships were coming from all over the world to load and unload cargo, and there were a lot of entrepreneurs trying to creatively turn $5 into $6 on those docks. It was an early example of the New York hustle. This is the DNA of the city and the port and water is the core of it."

As planes started replacing passenger liners and container ships were diverted to New Jersey in the 1950s, Manhattan's maritime industry began to collapse. Over the coming decades, piers and warehouses were abandoned, docks fell into decay and New York Harbor, which had been one of the most diverse and dynamic environments on the planet when the Dutch showed up, became a de facto dump.

But in the last decade, billions of dollars have been pumped into cleaning up the city's waterways, a string of ambitious projects have transformed Manhattan's rusting piers into landscaped green spaces and the city's once-derelict waterfront has become a model of urban renewal. As a result, more than four centuries after Hudson's crew reported that waves of Lenape came out to greet their ship in "great canoes" as they approached the island, Manhattan is returning to its water-bound roots, and quickly emerging as one of the US's most unique paddling destinations.

Many boathouses now offer free kayaking all over New York City. Credit: Alamy

"There's no place like it in the country," said Suzy Basu, managing partner of Manhattan Kayak Co, which offers hourly rentals, classes and guided tours around the city – including a 30-mile lap of Manhattan. "So many people here don't even realise Manhattan is an island, but when you paddle around this magnificent, man-made mountain range of towers shooting into the sky, it changes your whole perspective of the city. You'll see."

Kayaking Manhattan

Pushing out of Pier 84 and into the Hudson's swift tidal flow, it quickly became clear that the key to navigating Manhattan's waterways on your own power is something the island's Indigenous residents understood long ago: it's all about the current.

The original Algonquin name for the Hudson River was Mahicantuck or "river that flows two ways". That's because, like the East River that rings Manhattan's opposite end (which isn't actually a river but a tidal strait), its current changes direction every few hours as it flows in and out of the ocean. Therefore, our floating parade of 14 kayakers and four stand up paddleboarders would travel counterclockwise around the island in a perfectly timed route designed to take advantage of the rivers' shifting currents.

Accompanying us were three guides armed with two-way radios whose job was to safely navigate us through the rush of ferries, barges and sightseeing cruises – one of whom was Eric Stiller, Manhattan Kayak Co's 64-year-old founder, who estimates he's circumnavigated the island 80 to 100 times. He explained that back in the 1980s, there was no access to the water for paddlers anywhere, so he used to jump fences and launch his foldable kayak in the Hudson from rotting piers. As word of his exploits spread, people started paying him to lead them out into the rivers where no one else dared go.

"My first paying customer was [American singer] David Lee Roth, followed soon after by John F Kennedy Jr," he said, as we paddled towards the glimmering pinnacles of the Chrysler and Empire State buildings in the distance. "We used to wheel kayaks out [in the Meatpacking District], jump the fence and paddle out to Ellis Island. That's how this all started."

Fast-forward to today and the New York City Water Trail connects paddlers with 160 square miles of navigable waterways, dozens of launch sites dot the city and many of Manhattan's newly opened boathouses now offer free kayaking.

As the current carried us south along the 550-acre Hudson River Park that runs along Manhattan's western shore, the island's recent waterfront revival unfolded in front of us. Since first opening in 1998, the park has been slowly transforming many of the collapsing piers that once propelled the city's growth into creative urban oases – all while paying homage to Manhattan's maritime past and incorporating native ecosystems that thrived here 400 years ago.

We soon paddled past Little Island, a $260m "floating park" rising like a bouquet of tulip-shaped concrete columns from the Hudson that opened in 2021. Built atop the former Cunard Line dock that shipped people and goods between Manhattan and the British Empire (and next to the pier where the survivors from the Titanic landed in 1912), it's home to 350 species of flowers, trees and shrubs that Mannahatta's early residents would recognise today.

Moments later, we drifted past Gansevoort Peninsula, where novelist Herman Melville spent years working as a customs inspector at the wharf after writing Moby Dick. Opened in 2023, the park features a restored marsh, native grasses and a 1,200-ton sand beach designed to mirror those that lined the island's western shore when the Dutch arrived.

The $260m Little Island park now rises from the nubs of Manhattan's commercial piers. Credit: Getty Images

Tribeca's 2.5-acre "ecologically themed" Pier 26 then came into view, where a newly planted woodland forest, coastal grassland and maritime scrub is designed to mimic the river's original coastal habitat. A brand-new "Estuarium" opened in January 2024 featuring a playground inspired by fish species that thrived in the Hudson before European colonisation, and as I looked to my left, I spotted children climbing into the gills of a colossal Atlantic sturgeon.

Work is underway on the other side of Manhattan, too, where the East Midtown Waterfront project is part of a grand vision to close the loop and provide New Yorkers with continuous waterfront open space around Manhattan once it's completed in 2026.

As we approached the southern tip of Manhattan where the Dutch settled, a sudden "Hold!" command from Stiller thrust me back into the present. Four centuries later, these waters remain Manhattan's busiest maritime throughfare. With boats and barges rumbling all around us, Stiller explained that once he gave the signal, we had exactly 10 minutes to round the island's southern point before the next Staten Island ferry stormed by.

I glanced over at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on my right, One World Trade Center on my left and snapped a quick picture with my phone. Then, one of our guides, Tommy Montgomery said, "You're going to want to secure that now before we get to Hell Gate."

"Before we get to what?" I asked.

But before he could reply, Stiller shouted, "Now, now, now!"

Top: Paddlers pass under 21 bridges when circumnavigating Manhattan, including the Brooklyn Bridge. Credit: Eliot Stein Bottom: One thousand ships every year used to crash at Hell Gate, and when officials blew up its bedrock in 1885, the explosion was heard 50 miles away. Credit: Alamy

Paddling as hard as we could, our crew quickly crossed the channel, caught the East River's flood tide and shot north on an 11-knot (12.5 mph) highway past the last 19th-Century cargo sailing ship still docked at the historic South Street Seaport and under the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg bridges. At one point, I noticed we were zipping past a kid biking along the East River Greenway. As we neared the northern tip of Roosevelt Island, Montgomery looked back at me.

"Okay, this" he said, "this is Hell Gate. Stay to the left and paddle hard."

Coined by the Dutch (Helle Gadt) and known as the most notorious stretch of the city's complex waterways, Hell Gate is the swirling, churning, narrow tidal strait where the Harlem and East rivers meet. It's also the final resting place of hundreds of ships. But because successfully traversing it could save merchants sailing from New York Harbor to New England days of travel, so many sailors tried to run its gauntlet that in the 1850s, an estimated 1,000 ships ran aground here every year. In 1885, at the height of Manhattan's maritime might, officials determined that subduing this treacherous passageway was so crucial to the nation's economy that the US Army Corps of Engineers blew up its bedrock with 300,000 lbs of explosives in the largest planned detonation before the atomic bomb.

Today, the confluence remains chaotic and unpredictable – akin to "paddling through a whirlpool", as Stiller later told me – but with the currents working in our favour, we were soon beached at Randall's Island.

One of the consequences planners likely didn't consider when they paved over Manhattan's natural topography is that there are virtually no places people can feasibly stop when kayaking around it – even for a bathroom break. A rocky beach on Randall's Island is one of the few exceptions. So as the other paddlers downed their energy bars and I tucked into my Bodega Sandwich, I took a moment to meet them.

Of the group's 17 other paddlers, 11 were women and only one other person had never completed "the circ". There was Nick Avrutin, who said he spends so much time on the water with Manhattan Kayak Co that he now stores his kayak at the boathouse; Stacey Hull, who was attempting her first circ on a stand up paddleboard after many in a kayak; and Giandomenica Becchio, who travels from her home in Turin, Italy, to New York every summer to lap the island.

"When you get on the water, it really gives you a different perspective of what the city is," said Eva Rivlin, looking down at a crab that had washed up on the beach. "Our shorelines are these incredible, diverse ecosystems, and to see it from this perspective, you really understand not only the scale of the city but how it all fits together."

As we chatted, a family waded into the water nearby. Officials maintain that after decades of neglect and abuse (and a more-than $45bn restoration effort), the city's waterways are now cleaner and healthier than they've been since the Civil War. In fact, many experts agree that it's generally safe to swim in the Hudson, and I even spotted a swimmer tearing through the river later that day. Rivlin pointed across the river to one of the 700 outfalls that dump billions of gallons of sewage into the city's waterways each year, but she also pointed towards a rusting pier reclaimed by the Billion Oyster Project, whose ambitious goal is to restore the 220,000 acres of oyster reefs that sustained the Lenape and nourished the Dutch.

"People still have this perception that the water is dirty and not safe, and it's still dirty, but it's incredible the developments in the last 15-20 years that have changed it by leaps and bounds," Rivlin said.

A 1,000-Year-Old Rock in Inwood Hill Park marks the site where the Dutch allegedly purchased Manhattan. Credit: Alamy

Two hours and 13 bridges later, we had finally paddled our way out of the Harlem River's modern industrial sprawl and reached the island's northern tip at Inwood Hill Park, where Mannahatta's primordial past still defies Manhattan's paved presence. It's perhaps fitting that here, just a few steps from a series of caves used by the island's Native inhabitants for millennia, a 1,000-year-old rock marks the site where the Lenape purportedly sold the island to the Dutch four centuries ago.

Moments after I watched the heron vanish into the reeds, the trilling of crickets was swept aside by the whooshing traffic and whirring helicopters of the city. My fleeting glimpse of Mannahatta was gone – or so I thought.

As we waited for the Hudson's current to shift so it could carry us south towards the soaring skyscrapers of Midtown, it occurred to me that for as much as this island had changed in the last 400 years, one part of its natural landscape remained the same – and it had been guiding me around Manhattan all day.

[charles-ars281-fall2023]

Christmas and the Greater Lesser Things:

All over he world, hundreds of millions of people dream of coming to New York during the Christmas season. Of those people, only hundreds of thousands get to see the Rockefeller Center tree with their own eyes. Using my proximity and privilege, I took the trip to Manhattan with my friends to see the tree. I wanted to capture the lights on the streets while also experimenting with lighting and framing in my portraiture. All of these pictures culminate in what I consider a Christmas card coming to life.

Using a long exposure for the tree gave me an interesting sparkle effect with the starlight which i wanted to be the focus of the image. Because of the volume of people, the challenge here was finding a spot where nobody would interfere with the camera. I had to take more than a few because people would walk in the frame and I’d have an unusable image.

The Dior/Saks limited time instillation is something many people will never be able to see. Here for just 25 days in HISTORY, made it something historic (as a fashion nerd) it felt necessary to capture and include due to its use of bright colors and lighting.

The row of lit trees is something you often see while walking New York City streets during Christmas time. I wanted this piece to double as both documentation and appreciation of what makes NYC Christmas what it is. Having such a staple in the project felt necessary.

In terms of the portraits, they were taken in Central Park: I wanted to utilize some different lighting styles/temperatures in the photos meant to play on the different types of lighting that you often see during Christmas.

Candle/Fireplace- Using these warm tones I wanted to invoke a homey and warm feeling.

Outdoor and White Lighting- With this I wanted to remove the viewer from the subject and create a spectacle that is meant to be looked at from distance, like Christmas lights outside of houses.

Tree Lights- We actually hopped a fence and climbed a tree for this, but I wanted to get close and into the tree to capture an interesting angle. Often times we stare at trees straight on and I wanted to convey the inside and capture a different effect.

[cadencejames87]

Forever Mine: Part 8

Series Masterlist // Previous Chapter

Chapter Summary: You try to escape, but it’s Bucky... Lieutenant Wright is beginning to have her suspicions about Steve.

Word Count: 3k

Warnings: Memories of being stalked & assaulted, a struggle with Bucky may be triggering for DV *Warnings updated with each chapter*

*Not beta’d, thus any and all mistakes are my own*

*Dividers above by @maysdigitalarts​ *

*Dividers within story by @whimsicalrogers​ *

It began drizzling as you made your way to the bakery, nevertheless, there was no turning back. You were determined to surprise your twins with a delicious cake. The cake had not been ready when you arrived, thankfully you had time to kill and remembered passing a gas station on your walk over. As you wander to the station, the rain picks up slightly. You inhale deeply, relishing the scent that fills the air.

You spot two shadier than shady men, Brock and Jack, leaning against a car with lit cigarettes; their eyes glued to you as you cut across a parking lot. Obviously, you disregard the men, eyes steady on your destination down the block from the bakery. The men watch you slip inside. Rumlow gives Jack a nod, and Rollins takes that cue to depart as his partner returns his attention to the storefront. You emerge moments later, contentedly slurping a slushy.

You notice one of the men is still standing in the parking lot on your return, making eye contact only briefly before looking to the sky above and the darkening clouds. You hope the weather holds steady long enough to grab the cake and meet your family rather than take a turn for the worse and leave you stuck in a heavy downpour.

Brock flicks his cigarette and follows you as you pass by. "Hey, pretty girl. Where you going?" You ignore him, though, of course, he fails to take the hint, falling back momentarily to check you out. "Oooh, look at that ass." You pick up your pace as he catches up. "You want to take my number? Got a few things I’d like to--"

You stop, spinning on your heel to face him as you wait for the crosswalk. "Sorry, not interested, married." You flash your wedding ring with a tight-lipped smile.

"No worries, I’ll take his number as well in case I can’t reach you," he winks, and you visibly shudder as you turn away. "Please stop."

The lights change, and you rush across, cutting through an alleyway and glancing back over your shoulder to see Rumlow with a stupid smirk, taking his time to cross the same street. You turn a corner and run into a large, solid frame... Jack. "Hey, darling." You look back to find Brock entering the alley behind you. You are trapped.

The nightmares had you tossing and turning, sheets damp from sweat, and suddenly your eyes spring open, wide awake in a panic. You squint through the darkness of the master suite. Bucky must have tucked you into bed. You swing your legs over the edge, though instead of standing, your knees give out, and you topple to the cold wood floor. You crawl to the window that overlooks the backyard. Through blurred vision, you catch Bucky removing items from a box and tossing them in the fire, piece by piece.

---

Bucky pauses, the feeling of being watched pulling his attention to the tree line beyond the fire. A phantom itch on the back of his neck, whoever is spying on him is behind him. He looks over his shoulder and directly at the bedroom window. You are no longer peering out; if you had been, your eyes would have locked at that moment. He dumps the rest of the contents into the fire, eyes trained on the window. As he finally turns back to the blaze, he tosses the box on top, and steps back, returning to his chair, alcohol, and phone.

Bucky wakes his cell to study the lock screen. A picture of him carrying you piggyback. You kiss his cheek over his shoulder, and he is beaming. The moment captured in Dumbo with the Manhattan bridge in the background.

He downs the last of the alcohol and sets the bottle on the table. It teeters on the edge, and before he can stop it, the bottle tumbles to the ground, unbreaking. He picks the bottle up and launches it at the side of the fire pit; the glass SHATTERS. He smooths his beard and leans forward, elbows on his knees as he fidgets with the wedding band on his finger, entranced by the firelight dancing on the shards. Breathing through his frustration.

---

You lean on the railing for support, legs shaking under your weight as you struggle to descend the stairs through a hazy fog. You make it to the front door and cautiously exit, barefoot. There is no time to fumble around for footwear.

You push off the door frame and hug the post at the top of the porch, more stairs. You let out a heavy sigh. Despite taking the first step slowly, you nearly roll down the remaining steps and catch yourself on the bottom post. Hunched over and breathing heavily, you find yourself talking to yourself, "You've got this! Just stand up and run, Y/N!" The sky above seems to join in, rooting for your escape. The clouds part and moonlight shimmers on the face of a hatchet buried in a pile of wood. You shuffle closer, yanking it loose and allowing the logs on top of the stack to roll down with a CLATTER. There is no more time to hesitate. You depart for the tree line, stumbling slightly as the effects of the drug begin to wear off.

Bucky rounds the corner of the house, a Glock 17 drawn. He investigates the woodpile and scans the tree line. You lean back against a thick trunk, holding your breath. He looks over his shoulder at the front door as if waiting for someone to exit, ears still alert to his environment. He bursts inside, rushing up the stairs and into the master bedroom. He sweeps the room with his eyes, then races back outside in search of you.

You bump your head on low-hanging branches and trip over roots, stumbling further into the woods. Bucky is fast, even faster, while you are still under the effects of the anesthesia. You find a crawl space between a large fallen tree and a boulder. You slip inside to  steady your breathing and try to focus. Bucky approaches, leaves crunching beneath his feet. He stops right above you and takes advantage of the higher ground, searching the dark forest around the two of you.

He continues past you and the giant tree trunk. You wait as his footsteps disappear into the forest, and still a few moments after, before climbing from your hiding spot. A cold hand grabs your wrist, and Bucky steps out from behind a tree. You are already swinging the hatchet as you fight to break free of his hold. He easily blocks the attack and catches your other wrist before you can swing again. He stares hard into your eyes, taking both of your wrists into one of his hands, his grip tight. He tears the hatchet away and throws it into the nearest tree; the wood splinters around the sharp blade.

You are not giving up easily, lifting your knee hard and connecting with his groin. You turn to run as Bucky doubles over, though he recovers quickly and snatches your hair, wrapping your ponytail in his grasp and pulling you back against his chest in one swift movement. He pushes you up against a tree, knocking the wind out of you. His cool prosthetic wraps around your neck and steadily slips up, grasping your chin and turning your face to his. "Y/N, stop!" He lets his hand drop to your shoulder.

Wrong move, James. You slam your arm down against his and instantly elbows him in the face. A move you learned in self defence. Bucky takes both your hands and twists them behind your back. You were not expecting that. You can feel his breath on the back of your ear, "I don’t want to hurt you, now cut it out," he seethes, then drags you over to the tree with the hatchet. He effortlessly pulls it from the trunk and leads you back to the house, pushing you ahead of him, hand firmly grasping both wrists behind your back.

Lieutenant Rambeau has her personal laptop out. "What about the drug?"

"The one Dr. Banner mentioned?" Rambeau nods. Steve moves to the counter behind him and fills a glass with water, drinking it down and refilling it before returning to his seat. "Not one of our ops. If he got ahold of this drug, he was running with someone else."

"But you've heard of it?" With how long it took to answer her previous question and how hard he is avoiding her eyes now, he definitely knows about it.

"Wasn't something I wanted any part of." Something tells Lieutenant Rambeau he may not have had a choice in the matter. "It's been used to hurt people I care about." Bingo.

"Well, let us hope the doctor was right and the IV was removed in time."

Breen looks between Lieutenant Rambeau and Steve. "What am I missing?"

"There was a syringe containing a drug used to wipe memories found in Y/N’s hospital room. Prolonged use of which could cause permanent memory loss." Breen stares in shock.

"We also have no idea if the drug was further developed. So, according to Banner, even with a one-time use at whatever dosage, Y/N could potentially have long-lasting side effects." Lieutenant Rambeau receives a NOTIFICATION on her laptop.

Breen turns to Steve. "Why am I just hearing about this?"

Rambeau looks up from her laptop before Steve has time to answer. "Surveillance spotted our guy this afternoon at a convenience store in Lake Louise."

"Breen, you stay with Maya and the kids." Steve grabs his keys and turns back to Lieutenant Rambeau. "I’ll follow you."

"Not a chance, we go together, or I set up units outside your house to make sure you stay put." There's something about you, Steve, that I can't quite put my finger on yet.

Rain falls heavy on the pavement around you and washes your cuts clean. It feels as if you were hit by a bus. You very well may have been with how hard you try to move; when you lay unmoving, sprawled on the concrete, hair a mess, shirt torn, a tear falls from the corner of your eye. The sound of RAIN fades as the HEAVY BEATING of your heart grows. You squint through the rain as Bucky rushes to your side, pulling you into his arms. Everything hurts, mostly your head and face. You squeeze your eyes shut, or maybe they close of their own accord as darkness consumes you.

Bucky frisks your unconscious body, pocketing your wedding ring and cell phone as his eyes dart around, scanning the alleyway. A camera sits affixed to one of the buildings, pointed directly at the two of you and the whole scene. A small crowd slowly gathers.

Bucky pulls out his phone and calls an ambulance, his voice shaky as he begs them to hurry.

When the paramedics arrive and load you into the back, Bucky steps back and fades into the crowd. One emergency tech hops in back with you as the other turns to find Bucky no longer with them. He closes the door and jogs around to the driver's seat.

Bucky exits the alley, crossing the street as the ambulance drives away, SIRENS BLARING.

---

Bucky, changed into his hospital outfit, sits behind the wheel and sets a small drone on the roof of his car as he puts on a pair of Stark Tech glasses. Looking at the camera in the alley, he presses a button on the side of the lenses. The tiny drone takes off, attaching itself to the camera. "Extract and destroy." Bucky removes the glasses and drives off.

A dim blue light blinks on the drone as it extracts and deletes files on the system connected to the camera. The blue light turns green momentarily, then rapidly blinks red before exploding, nothing too big, just enough to destroy the cam.

---

A handful of tiny drones lay on a workbench in the garage loft.

Plastic digs into your wrists as you fight the zip-tie restraints keeping you tied to an uncomfortable wooden chair. Bucky moves around the small space with ease as he fits you with a bomb vest. You see a familiar look in his eyes, concentration? Sadness? Determination? Or maybe it was a strange mix of these emotions. "I remember you." His hands freeze as he looks into your eyes, hopeful. "Why save me if you’re just going to kill me anyway?" His jaw tenses as he returns to wiring your vest. "What? Run out of lies?"

"I’ve never lied to you, Y/N," his voice gravelly and full of conviction.

"But you paid two men to get rid of me."

"No!" He looks into your eyes again.

"So why bring me here?"

"Those assholes were never supposed to hurt you. They were set to grab you off the street and bring you to me. It felt like my only option. I could’ve taken you without a trace, unharmed, but..." His voice breaks, breath shaky. "I needed there to be evidence, frame a few low lives with records full of assault, and maybe he won’t come looking for you." He looks away, he never took the kids into account or your bond.

---

Bucky sits behind the wheel, studying a photo of you and your children on his phone. He glances out to the alleyway where Rumlow and Rollins have you cornered.

Your slush splashes to the ground, and you are backed into a wall before you can escape. You are feisty and brave, kneeing Jack in the groin and pushing him away when he gropes your chest.

Bucky turns away, gnawing at his lip with anger as Jack charges after you. You try to scream, though they silence you immediately. Ignoring the assault is no longer an option for him, your muffled cries pulling at his heart.

Rumlow drags you by the arm, Jack marching after, fists clenched at his sides. "Fuck!" Bucky loses his internal battle as he finally exits the vehicle and pockets his phone.

Jack grabs you by the hair and hits you in the face. "You think you're funny?" He strikes you again and wraps his fingers around your neck.

Your eyes begin to flutter as you slowly lose consciousness. Rumlow smacks Jack's shoulder. "Hey, unharmed! Let her go."

Jack only tightens his grip with a predatory smile. "This cunt wants to play. We’re gonna have a little fun first." He leads you further into the alley.

Brock shakes his head and turns to check everything is still clear when Bucky rounds the corner and knocks him on his ass with a vibranium fist to the face. Bucky has Jack in a chokehold in seconds. He bends Jack's fingers back, tearing them away from your throat. You collapse to the ground, GASPING for air. Bucky spins Jack around by his fingers, blocks a weak punch, and quickly delivers a heavy blow to his gut. The man falls forward into his arms. "Deals off," Bucky whispers in his ear.

Jack punches Bucky in the side and pushes him off him, yet there is no escape as Bucky swiftly steps forward and returns two quick blows to the face, first his fist and then his elbow, followed by a knee to the gut.

He shoves Jack into a pile of trash and then turns to pick you up. You are in and out of consciousness as he carries you to a bench. He sets you down and caresses your face as he examines your injuries.

Rumlow follows closely behind Bucky. "What was that? Trying to be the hero? Make yourself look good in front of your woman." He wipes at his bloody nose and spits out a mouthful. "Is that all this was, Soldat?"

Bucky straightens, jaw tense. He looks back over his shoulder, glaring at Rumlow. Brock lifts both hands and motions for him to come at him. He readies himself, both fists raised as Bucky stands, towering over him. Rumlow is no match for Bucky and his rage. He realizes this instantly and tries frantically to back away. Bucky catches hold of him and delivers blow after blow after blow, only stopping when you slip from the bench onto the wet concrete. Bucky drags Rumlow to the pile of trash and leaves him with his friend, both men bloodied and unconscious.

---

Bucky finishes fixing your vest and stares into her eyes as he stands. If you had blinked, you would have missed the rueful look in his eye before he turned and busied himself with a small screwdriver and remote. "That accident report and those missing person posters... You do that yourself? Knew I’d be curious. Was that your way of convincing me I was your long-lost wife and that my kids were dead or something?" Bucky pockets the remote and tosses the screwdriver onto his workbench. "For what? So I’d sleep with you?" Bucky swallows hard as he collects two halves of a sensor and moves to the garage door to mount them. "You got some kind of sick torture kink?" The silent treatment is starting to affect you. "What do you want from me?" You pull at your restraints.

Bucky turns back to you, dragging a stool and setting it in front of you. "Please just let me go. Please." He picks up a camera from his workbench and sets it up between you and the stool, the lens pointed at the empty seat. "I want to see my babies. I... I won’t tell anyone. I don’t even know who you are, or why I’m--" Bucky grits his teeth as he looks at you from the corner of his eye and pulls a knife from a holder in his thigh. "You don’t want to do this, I know that much."

He holds the knife up to your lips, then slowly traces the blade down your neck and along your collarbone. You tremble as his eyes meet yours. "You’re right, but, I have to." He pulls the knife away, and you brace yourself as your eyes shut tight. Bucky duct tapes your mouth, using the knife to cut the tape before tossing the roll away. He then slips the tactical knife between your chest and the vest, and with a quick tug, you hear a small snap. He tucks the knife away, pulls out a wire and takes a seat in front of the camera, pressing a button.

Next Chapter

Tag List: @buckyalpine​ @pono-pura-vida​ @cjand10​ @lou-la-lou​ @liarasstuff​ @royalwriteroftheuniverse​

[quickienewyork]

A Couple of Very Late Realizations

(From my collection of short stories, F*ucking Hilarious)

In the middle of fucking my girlfriend’s husband’s new girlfriend, I realized I wasn’t wearing a condom. There was a whole box of them on the bedside table, but we hadn’t even bothered to look, let alone touch. So, there I was anyway, barebacking her hard as she scratched her nails down my back through my shirt.

I also realized that my girlfriend and her husband were upstairs waiting for us to come back because we both left to use the bathroom at the same time. I mean we had already had a manhattan so it wasn’t that odd, but as I kept fucking her I realized that we were also fucking on their bed. That probably wasn’t cool, although to be fair we had all had a bump of coke too.

As I thrust into my girlfriend’s husband’s new girlfriend on their bed without a condom on as they waited upstairs, I also realized that I didn’t know her name. I’m sure they had told me when they introduced us an hour before, but after two manhattans and maybe two bumps of coke, the information went right out the window. Which was when I noticed her purse was open on the bed and her ID was showing through one of those plastic holders you put your metro card in.

Just as I leaned forward so I could read it, my girlfriend’s husband’s new girlfriend wrapped her legs around me as I barebacked her on their bed and yelled, “Fuck me, Tony.” The first thought that went through my head was who the hell is Tony? The second thought was that she didn’t remember my name either, and then I read her ID and I thought about my mother.

You see, just a few weeks ago we had talked about our family tree and some uncle and his kids had come up and it was sticking in the back of my head as I raw-dogged my girlfriend’s husband’s new girlfriend on their bed while they waited upstairs. ‘Cause the thing is, when I finally read her ID, I realized she had the same last name as me and her first name rang a bell too, so instead of saying who the fuck is Tony, I said, I’m not Tony, I’m your first cousin once removed, Paul.

So, there I was, fucking my first cousin once removed who just happened to be my girlfriend’s husband’s new girlfriend after three manhattans and maybe half a gram of coke, and god’s honest truth, as soon as the words left my mouth, she started to come. And I mean come. She started to yell–loud enough for everyone to hear–and she made a mess of me and the bed, and of course that meant only one thing.

As my girlfriend’s husband’s new girlfriend started to come, I started to come too because let’s face it, when you’re barebacking a girl you just met who happens to be on a second date with someone else, and you’ve had four manhattans, too much coke to remember, and a viagra to boot, there’s not a lot of choices. And if she happens to be your long lost first cousin once removed and she’s calling you by the wrong name, then coming hard inside her is probably a good move anyway. Because let’s face it, it’s not like it can get more awkward.

When we finally got up and straightened our clothes, I wrapped my arm around my girlfriend’s husband’s new girlfriend aka my long lost first cousin once removed, and only one thought went through my head. I smiled as we made our way up the stairs and I couldn’t think of anything else.

This is what polyamory is all about.

-guy

(From my collection of short stories, F*ucking Hilarious)

Website/Books | Erotic Newsletter | Medium | Patreon | OF | Twitter

[carolrain]

Trivia Wednesday

Creators: give a “behind the scenes” look at one of your works. This could be things that got removed or changed, the origins of ideas/details, whatever you like!

I am delighted, delighted by this whole thing. I love “behind the scenes,” love talking about writing, love learning about other kinds of creating.

I love @mostlyinthemorning’s post about making graphs—it answered about a dozen questions I wanted to ask and more questions I didn’t realize I wanted answers to but I did. I love metadata, love that kind of analysis. I am so pleased to be tagged, thank you.

Here is a list I started keeping of things I've researched/googled as I’ve written my work in progress. I’m copying it straight from my notes without cleaning it up or explaining so I don’t get perfectionistic about it. (I actually would be happy to explain, elaborate, or tell you what I found out about anything, as long as you promise not to laugh at those many items that reveal a basic ignorance about Canada or life in general.)

Things I've Researched for “Piecing It Together” (still a WIP)

amnesia in general

amnesia in fiction

amnesia in fanfiction

types of memory in general—muscle memory

prematurity circa 1983

nicus in toronto in 1983

30 weekers

adults who were born preterm

weather in that part of Ontario for fall 2020

weather in that part of Ontario in general

vegetation in that part of Ontario—garden, trees, planting

butter and how it’s packaged and referred to in Canada

what measurements are used for babies in Canada

head injuries in general

healing times and staples vs. stitches vs. glue on head wounds

who was the prime minister in March 2016

Covid and hospital emergency rooms in Sept 2020

Blue Jays schedule for August 2020

OHIP cards and how health care works in Canada

lockdown and non-essential businesses in Ontario

pandemic-related business help from Ontario government

timeline of Covid/lockdown guidance and rules in Ontario

if you could actually donate money to Teen Vogue

SC timeline

nosejobs circa 1996 and if they could be outpatient

psychology—compartmentalization

fall Canadian holidays

fall Jewish holidays

the geography of that part of Ontario

wildfire smoke in Sept 2020

what Alias Grace is about

timeline of Canadian elections

kilts vs skirts

MRIs vs CT scans

what was popular to watch in Sept 2020

names of colors

lyrics to songs

John Prine’s concert history

planting times for gardens in Ontario

what flowers mean

what scents go well with apple

“good baseball news website canadian”

do they eat peanut butter in Canada

meghan markle’s bouquet

episode of friends looking out the window u2

what do people do on labor day

tundra animals

the color of the motel walls—what did Dan call it?

details of baby Patrick Kennedy—include a footnote?

Susanna Moodie

busy highway toronto

what shows were on tv in spring 1996

patrick’s actual outfits patrick bluer

herbal remedies for memory problems

tomato cages

how to help someone with retrograde amnesia

the canadian postal system

how to dry curly hair

teenagers late 90s

koolaid hair 1990s images

“where do rich people hang out in spain”

where to buy tennis balls—canadian tire—do they ship them

what’s a postal code I can use for research

gardening zones canada

videos man throwing ball

sunset sunrise times ontario 2020

moon phases sept 2020

amplifier vs receiver

neck anatomy massage

what is made out of beeswax

link to fuse bead examples?

do they sell pyrex in canada?

adrenaline is the hormone I mean, right?

harpsichords

canadian cheese crackers

do they have lucky charms?

movies september 2020

disney movies released to video dates 1990s

lion king scary for seven year old

scary parts of lion king

kindergarten in ontario

soho live-work spaces images

art in galleries 2014 new york

photographers 2014 art shows

expensive cool beauty inventions 2014

vodka made in canada

how long do bouquets of flowers last

do they have best buy and the geek squad in canada

is soho in manhattan

what the creek would look like

various locations, etc.

what trees would be there, when their leaves change

fall smells

gourmet chocolate flavors

Tagging @five678patty @apothecarose @beaiola @chelle68 to share a deleted scene or other behind-the-scenes content from their creations. 

[grumpy-potat]

Controversial Public Art

I am not someone who believes art is just meant for museums or for hanging in your homes. Although those are amazing places for them, I feel art is meant to be experienced in aspects of our every day lives. Out in the world as we walk through it. So I am a huge advocate for public art.

Very briefly that is defined as:

"Public Art is Artwork in the public realm, regardless of whether it is situated on public or private property, or whether it is acquired through public or private funding. Public art can be a sculpture, mural, manhole cover, paving pattern, lighting, seating, building facade, kiosk, gate, fountain, play equipment, engraving, carving, fresco, mobile, collage, mosaic, bas-relief, tapestry, photograph, drawing, or earthwork" -Jack Becker Monograph 2004

Public art is a way to beautify your spaces, express the unique aspects of your community and express the different culture and values of the people who live all around you. It can Commemorate events, people, or important groups that and their impacts to society. However, as with all art, you can't avoid controversy. Whether it be from who paid for the installation, to the subject matter. From proper representation, to where the piece is placed. What medium is used in its creation, or who the artist is. All of these things can lead to communities having a strong backlash to artistic pieces being displayed and some even turn to violent outbursts against the art or even their creators.

This is a list today I would like to discuss some controversial public art pieces. Maybe I will go more in depth about some of them later, but these are some big ones that stick in the public conscious today.

Richard Serra's Tilted Arc

This is a 12 foot tall, 120 foot long tiled steal plate that ran through Manhattan's federal plaza from 1981 to 1989. This wall forced people to take an inconvenient route through the plaza for most of the 80's. The goal of the piece was to inspire the viewer to become aware of themselves and their movement through the plaza, but it caused an imposition on government workers. The piece had a lot of support of modern artists,but by 1985 there was a hearing to remove the Arc and a court voted 4-1 to remove it. Due to the artists insistence that it never be displayed again it is now in government storage.

How Ya Like Me Now? by David Hammond

Painted in 1988 and commissioned by the Washington Project for the Arts for an exhibition on black culture and modernism this 14 foot by 16 foot billboard was poorly received to say the least. Local youths did not connect with the artists intended message of how popular culture was co-opting and commodifying black identity and whitewashing it. They interpreted it as racist so they tore the display down with sledgehammers. The piece was later reinstalled with the sledgehammers as part of the final piece incorporating the vandalism and backlash into the final work only this time it is inside the gallery and not on a street corner across from the National Portrait Gallery in D.C.

Just kidding , I couldn't find a good artist photo

Traffic Light Tree by Pierre Vivant

A sculpture originally located in Canary Wharf London in 1998 after a competition run by the Public Art Commissions Agency. It was moved to Billingsgate Market. It stands at 8 meters or 26.24 feet tall and has 75 sets of traffic lights. Vivant stated that it was to represent adjacent plane tree and the restless rhythm of the city. It was installed to replace a dying plane tree in the center of a roundabout, but the controversy arose when motorist confused the installation as an actual traffic light. Despite the initial controversy it has won over the city and is now viewed as one of the most pleasing roundabouts, although it still does cause confusion with tourists.

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial by Lei Yixin

Built in 2011 this sculpture was controversial from start to finish. Recognized as a master sculptor in China and having sculpted monuments that included the communist leader Mao Zedong, his appointment to sculpt the Dr King statue was protested due to members of human rights organizations decrying the appointment of his visual support of the CCP. Others felt that the statue should have been done by an African American artist. They disliked the use of Chinese granite and not American granite. The quote engraved on the side was abridged in a way that changed the meaning and upset many, to the point where a year later it was removed to now only show abstract striations.

Tree by Paul McCarthy

Displayed in October 2014 at the International Fair of Contemporary Art in Palace Vendôme in Paris this abstraction of a Tree in a reminiscent way of a modern impressionist was a 24 meter or 78.74 foot tall green canvas butt plug shape because he thought they looked similar to trees so he created it as a tree abstraction. He was actually assaulted by someone while installing it, and it was destroyed two days later because some people thought it was offensive to children. Tree was displayed again in 2016 at Paramount Ranch 3 and it was well received by visitors.

Dirty Corner by Anish Kapoor

I feel a list of modern controversial art wouldn't be complete without Anish Kapoor, but my feelings are not why he is on the list. It is because he is a controversial artist. All his controversies deserve a post of their own, so only one is on this list. This art piece was created in 2011, but when it was brought to the Palace of Versailies in 2015 is when it hit its peak. The 60 meter (196.85ft) long and 8 meter(26.25ft) tall cone was described by Kapoor as "the vagina of a queen who was taking power". Critics hated the sexual nature and its nickname is "the Queen's Vagina." The idea was to enter the cone shaped piece and loose your perception of space the deeper you went into it. People vandalized the piece with antisemitic slurs as Kapoor's mother is Jewish. After some legal fights and wanting to leave the vandalism as a statement to the horror and intolerance of humanity, he was ordered to cover or remove the vandalism. He chose to cover it with gold leaf as "a royal response" the piece is no longer on display in France.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial by Gutzon Borglum

Sculpted from 1927 to 1941 This might be a controversial one to add for many Americans. But I wanted to focus on the 20th and 21st centuries and so I feel I would be remiss to not add this monument to America. Carved in the Black Hills of South Dakota by a close friend of Teddy Roosevelt and known Klan associate. This monument to the greatness of American expansionism in the early 20th century is also a monument to how American presidents directly participated, through policy or active participation in the taking and desecration of Native American lands. The Black Hills are considered a Holy Site to the Lakota people, and in the Fort Laramine Treaty of 1868 it was considered exempt from white settlement forever. But gold was discovered so the treaty was violated. Where Mount Rushmore is located is also home to Custer State Park, named after an American general who actively participated in the violation of the Treaty. Mount Rushmore was meant to be a Monument to America's Greatness as embodied by our Presidents, but it at the same time is a symbol of our expansion, treaty violations, and exploitation of the land and people of this nation. It remains a site of protest, the rock itself isn't great for carving and people think about adding more to it. The National Park service have dismissed the idea of altering it at all. People are divided about the site to this day. Some want it destroyed, some want to use it for education, but i have to say the National Park splash page doesn't help much with the education, and some just want the Lakota people to have their Holy Site back. The Lakota won a lawsuit for 17+million dollars, but they also just want the Land and not money as it is a holy site, and they continue to protest. The carving can not be undone, so the site remains a divisive reminder of American History that is often just a footnote in the education of most.

If you can think of any public artwork that you think is controversial please share it! Even if its just a public art work that someone has in their lawn that people in your community cant stand. Art should promote discussion, learning, and growth!

[shoshiwrites]

[ 𝐒𝐎𝐅𝐓 ]― sender wraps a soft blanket around receiver’s shoulders ∙ Christina

Requested by: @loveduringthewar

She puts another card down on the canvas floor of the tent. “We could go to New York.” She means her New York, not the New York of cathedrals and fine window displays. He opens his mouth to enumerate the obvious problems with that plan. “We could go…somewhere else.”

“You think we should?” he asks, and the way he says it is like he’d actually do it, if she really wanted. But it’s not really an option, with the wedding a week and a half off. The church is booked, and so’s the reception hall, and her dress is hanging in the closet. California, at least, is more manageable than Manhattan. She’s sure her mother and her compan- husband, she’s still getting used to that- are already booked first class. Her father had been making noises about taking the opportunity for a cross-country drive. She wonders if he’ll show up with the same graduate student as he had at the engagement party. 

“Thank you for pretending, anyway.”

He reaches for her hand, fingers brushing against the small diamond solitaire on her finger. She knows it’s not wise to wear the ring camping, but it seems bad to luck to remove it too. She loves the weight of it, the way it gleams in the firelight. 

“You want some more coffee?”

There’s still a little bit of a fire outside, but if they want to start settling down they ought to let it die.

“No, thank you.” She unscrews the top of the Thermos, but there’s barely any left. She takes a small sip and passes it to him. He shakes his head.

“All yours.”

It’s lukewarm but still good, and her shoulders do a little wobble in the encroaching chill of the night. She ought to get into her pajamas. Well, the ones she’d stolen with a wink from him, green flannel and entirely too big, the most comfortable she’d ever worn. 

When he kisses her he smells like woodsmoke and the trees, the taste of the coffee still on her lips. 

“‘ll go take care of that,” he says, nodding towards the dying fire. She kisses him again, the crackle of the embers in her ears. He takes one of the camp blankets and wraps it around her shoulders. 

She watches him, half-wanting her sketchbook, smiling back when he turns and offers one to her as he works. He looks so calm, so sure, even if she knows it’s not always like that, that expressions don’t say everything. She doesn’t think about the wedding, or the guests, or the way she’ll have to pretend. He winks, the kind of goofiness that peeks through like the sparks of a fire in the fall night. She thinks about their first days married, and the days after that, and after that, and for the first time, nothing else matters.

[beardedmrbean]

Police in New York City are investigating after a woman broke into Robert De Niro's home early Monday morning and tried to steal multiple presents from under his Christmas tree, multiple outlets are reporting.

A NYPD police spokesperson told USA TODAY the incident took place at a home on East 65th Street in the Upper East Side about 2:45 a.m. 

At the home, the spokesperson said, members of the department's 19th Precinct, observed a woman "known from numerous burglary arrests" enter the residence.

The woman, the spokesperson said, entered the home through a basement door which had visible signs of forced entry.

When officers entered the home they found a woman inside "attempting to remove property."

The woman was taken into custody without incident, police reported Monday, and charges were pending in the case.

Police did not confirm to USA TODAY the identity of the woman, what she was attempting to steal, nor who the home belonged to.

A representative for De Niro acknowledged the incident, but did not provide further information.

"We are not making any statement at this time regarding the robbery at the temporary rental home of Robert De Niro," Stan Rosenfield, a spokesperson for the actor, told USA TODAY.

According to local ABC 7, police were following the woman because she was wanted in connection with six other burglaries. 

The outlet reported he was home when the woman broke in and came downstairs to discover her "bagging up Christmas presents under the tree."

Police said more information about the case was expected to be released later on Monday and that the burglary remained under investigation.

[manhattanroofs]

Don't Let the Big Apple Leak: A Guide to Roof Repair in Manhattan

Manhattan, a vibrant island at the heart of New York City, boasts towering skyscrapers and historic brownstones. But keeping these structures protected from the elements falls on the shoulders of a crucial, yet often overlooked, component: the roof. With constant exposure to weather extremes and potential wear-and-tear, Manhattan roofs require regular maintenance and timely repairs.

Signs You Need Roof Repair in Manhattan

Ignoring a roof problem can lead to bigger issues down the line. Here are some telltale signs that your roof repair manhattan needs attention:

Visible Damage: Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or warped flashing are all red flags.

Leaks: Leaks in your attic, ceiling, or walls indicate water intrusion through the roof.

Mold Growth: Moisture trapped due to leaks can lead to mold growth, posing health risks.

Increased Energy Bills: A damaged roof can compromise insulation, leading to inefficient heating and cooling.

Granule Loss: Asphalt shingles shed granules over time. Excessive loss indicates potential shingle deterioration.

Light Peeking Through: This can happen with damaged underlayment or improper flashing.

Choosing a Reputable Manhattan Roof Repair Contractor

Finding the right roofer in Manhattan is crucial. Here are some key factors to consider:

Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the contractor is licensed by the New York Department of State and carries liability and worker's compensation insurance.

Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record in Manhattan, specializing in your specific roof type.

Warranty: A reputable contractor will offer a comprehensive warranty on materials and workmanship.

References and Reviews: Read online reviews and ask for references to check the contractor's quality of work.

Clear Communication: Ensure the contractor clearly explains the repair process, timeline, and cost breakdown.

Common Manhattan Roof Repair Scenarios

Manhattan roofs face unique challenges due to the urban environment. Here are some common repair situations:

Flat Roof Repair: Flat roofs are particularly prone to leaks and require specialized materials and techniques.

Shingle Repair: Asphalt shingle roofs are prevalent in Manhattan and may require repairs due to missing shingles, wind damage, or age-related wear.

Metal Roof Repair: Metal roofs can be durable but may require repairs due to punctures, loose seams, or corrosion.

Skylight Repair: Leaky or damaged skylights can compromise your roof's integrity and need prompt attention.

Maintaining Your Manhattan Roof

Preventative maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your Manhattan roof. Here are some essential tips:

Schedule Regular Inspections: Have your roof inspected by a professional at least twice a year, especially before and after winter.

Clear Debris: Remove leaves, branches, and other debris from your roof to prevent water pooling and potential damage.

Trim Overhanging Branches: Overhanging tree branches can scrape or damage your roof during windstorms.

Proper Ventilation: Adequate ventilation in your attic space helps prevent moisture build-up and promotes roof longevity.

By recognizing the signs of roof damage, choosing a qualified contractor, and practicing preventative maintenance, you can ensure your Manhattan roof keeps you and your property protected for years to come.

[cool-in-forest-hills-ny]

Professional Queens Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

When seeking a professional Queens pedestrian accident lawyer, consider these key factors: First, prioritize experience in personal injury law and inquire about their track record and client reviews. Second, seek a lawyer with a positive reputation in the Queens legal community. Third, ensure the lawyer has a communication style that suits your needs and can address your concerns. Additionally, confirm that the lawyer works on a contingency fee basis, pays attention to detail, has negotiation skills, and has trial experience. Considering these characteristics, you can find Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers, the right choice for Queens personal injury lawyer for your case. Book your appointment now, call 929-209-4909. 

Queens, NY, Culinary and Sports Paradise 

Queens offers more than just a place to live; it's a culinary and sports paradise that will keep you entertained and intrigued. From the vibrant Little Italy in Astoria to the bustling Koreatown in Flushing to the culturally rich Jackson Heights, home to a large South Asian community, there's a world of amazing dining experiences to explore. For sports enthusiasts, the renowned Citi Field, the home stadium of the New York Mets baseball team, and the USTA National Tennis Center, the prestigious venue for the annual US Open, are just a stone's throw away, promising endless excitement and entertainment.

Citi Field

Citi Field in Queens is best known for hosting New York Mets baseball games. It's one of the places to visit while you're in Queens. Attending a game offers an exciting experience with classic ballpark snacks and an enthusiastic crowd. The stadium also offers behind-the-scenes tours, showcasing areas like the press box and batting cages. In addition to traditional food options, Citi Field provides diverse choices, including Shake Shack burgers and Mikkeller NYC craft beer. Visitors can explore the Mets Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the team's history and legendary players. Apart from baseball, the stadium hosts concerts and special events such as charity runs and family fun days. Whether it's game day or not, Citi Field offers visitors a variety of entertainment options.

A powerful storm caused trees to topple in NYC

Heavy rain and strong winds caused numerous downed trees in New York City, leaving many residents without power. However, the prompt action of the crews, who began removing the trees early Thursday morning, reassured the residents that their power would be restored and streets would be open to traffic soon. This storm left streets littered with debris, and trees crashed down on cars, closing down streets and knocking out power for many. Due to the severe weather conditions, the New York City Parks Department received 95 reports of downed trees citywide. As of Thursday morning, about 3500 Bronx residents are without power, and in Westchester, nearly 10,000 customers are without power. Wind gusts also brought a tree down on another car on Manhattan's Upper West Side. Despite these challenges, the crews' prompt action instills confidence in the city's ability to recover swiftly.

Link to maps

Citi Field 41 Seaver Wy, Queens, NY 11368, United States Take I-678 S to Meadow Lake Rd W. Take the exit toward Flushing Meadows Corona Rd/69 Rd/Jewel Ave/Harry Ave Arsdale Junior Avenue from I-678 S 4 min (2.9 mi) Take Van Wyck Blvd and 69th Rd to New York 25 Service/Queens Blvd 7 min (1.6 mi) Davidoff Law Personal Injury Lawyers 108-18 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375, United States

[arnoldstrees02]

Arnoldo’s Tree Services - Natural beauty of your Trees

Arnoldo’s Tree Services - Natural beauty of your Trees

Welcome to Arnoldo’s Tree Service, your premier destination for top-quality landscaping services in Bronx, NY, Queens County, NY, and surrounding areas. We understand that your outdoor space is an extension of your home, and we're committed to helping you create a beautiful and vibrant landscape that you can enjoy year-round.

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at: Tree Trimming Manhattan, Tree Service Fresh Manhattan, Fresh Meadows Tree removal Services, Commercial Tree Removal Services Manhattan & Tree Service Brooklyn.

Please feel free to visit us at: http://arnoldstreeservice.com/

At Arnoldo’s Tree Service, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of lawn care and tree services to meet all of your landscaping needs. Whether you're looking for routine lawn maintenance or specialized tree care solutions, our experienced team is here to provide exceptional service and results.

Our lawn maintenance services are designed to keep your lawn looking healthy and lush. From core aeration and overseeding to dethatching and power raking, we utilize proven techniques to promote strong root growth and improve overall lawn health. Our application of fungicides and insecticides helps protect your lawn from common pests and diseases, ensuring that it remains green and beautiful throughout the year.

With over 23 years of experience serving the NYC boroughs, we have the knowledge and expertise to deliver outstanding results for our clients. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized service and attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of your landscaping project is completed to your satisfaction.

In addition to our lawn care services, we also offer professional tree services to help keep your trees healthy and vibrant. From tree pruning and trimming to tree removal and stump grinding, our certified arborists are equipped to handle all of your tree care needs with precision and care.

At Arnoldo’s Tree Service, we understand the importance of maintaining the natural beauty of our communities. That's why we're committed to providing environmentally-friendly landscaping solutions that enhance the beauty and value of your property while minimizing our impact on the environment.

Whether you're a homeowner, business owner, or property manager, Arnoldo’s Tree Service is your trusted partner for all of your landscaping needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you create the outdoor space of your dreams. Let us show you why we're the preferred choice for landscaping services in Bronx and Queens County!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at: Tree Trimming Manhattan, Tree Service Fresh Manhattan, Fresh Meadows Tree removal Services, Commercial Tree Removal Services Manhattan & Tree Service Brooklyn.

Please feel free to visit us at: http://arnoldstreeservice.com/

[manhattansewerdrain]

Sewer And Drain Cleaning Services By Expert Plumbers

Maintaining a functional plumbing system is essential for the smooth operation of any property. Among the critical components are sewers and drains, which can often be overlooked until a problem arises. In Manhattan, NY, having access to expert sewer and drain cleaning services is crucial. This article explores the importance of plumbing services, focusing on the specialized needs of residents in Manhattan.

Why Choose Professional Sewer and Drain Cleaning Services?

Preventative Maintenance

Regular cleaning of sewers and drains prevents clogs, backups, and other plumbing issues. Professional plumbers can identify potential problems before they escalate, saving you from costly repairs.

Efficient Solutions

Expert plumbers employ advanced tools and techniques to ensure thorough cleaning and removal of debris, grease, and other buildup. This results in improved water flow and prevents blockages.

Hygiene and Safety

Clogged drains and sewers can lead to unpleasant odors and even health hazards. Professional cleaning services help maintain a clean and sanitary environment, promoting the well-being of occupants.

Preserving Infrastructure

Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your plumbing infrastructure. By addressing issues promptly, you can avoid major repairs and replacements, saving both time and money.

Also, read about How Often Should I Clean My Sewer Drain Lines?

Common Issues Addressed by expert Plumbers:

Clogs and Blockages: Accumulation of debris, grease, and foreign objects can lead to clogs in sewer and drain lines. Expert plumbers employ advanced equipment to identify and clear these blockages, ensuring a smooth flow of wastewater.

Tree Root Infiltration: In urban environments like Manhattan, tree roots can infiltrate sewer lines, causing extensive damage. Professional plumbers employ techniques such as hydro-jetting to remove roots and prevent future intrusions.

Pipe Corrosion: Over time, pipes can corrode, leading to leaks and reduced efficiency. Expert plumbers assess the extent of corrosion and recommend appropriate solutions, which may include pipe repair or replacement.

Services Offered by plumbers:

1. Drain Cleaning: From kitchen sinks to bathroom drains, they tackle clogs of all sizes, ensuring smooth water flow.

2. Sewer Cleaning: Comprehensive cleaning of sewer lines to prevent backups and maintain optimal functionality.

3. Rooter Services: Dealing with invasive tree roots is a common issue in urban areas. Manhattan Sewer and Drain offer rooter services to address this problem efficiently.

4. Emergency Repairs: Available 24/7 for emergency plumbing needs, ensuring prompt response and resolution.

Contact Us for Sewer and Drain Cleaning Today

For best sewer and drain cleaning services in Manhattan, NY, contact Manhattan Sewer Drain today. Contact us to schedule your service. To learn more about our plumbing services, please call us immediately at +1-2126410256.

Conclusion

Investing in expert sewer and drain cleaning services is a proactive approach to maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system. With Manhattan Sewer Drain, residents and businesses in Manhattan, NY, can rely on a team of experts dedicated to delivering high-quality services. Don't let plumbing issues disrupt your routine; choose excellence, choose Manhattan Sewer Drain.

Source URL, https://bit.ly/3N4XpDw

[denimbex1986]

'Asking someone if they’re related to the destroyer of worlds is not a question a local journalist asks very often.

But Russell Oppenheimer doesn’t shy away from the fact he’s distantly related to the father of the atomic bomb.

Infact, the Hampshire County Council member for Petersfield Hangers is rather proud of the fact that J. Robert Oppenheimer is part of his family tree.

“It’s true, we are related as we are second cousins twice removed,” said Russell during a recent chat with the Post.

“I never met him, of course, but it’s a link I don’t shy away from. I’m actually a bit annoyed because the film about him is going to premiere when I’m away and I really wanted to be there on opening night.”

The Christopher Nolan film about the man “who became death” has been well received since opening.

Starring Cillian Murphy as the nuclear physicist and boasting a stellar cast with the likes of Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jnr and Emily Blunt, the epic tells the story of how Oppenheimer led the Manhattan Project and created the first atomic bomb.

While Russell has lived a much quieter life than the movie’s protagonist he realises his infamous surname will raise a few eyebrows. He’s also not ashamed of Robert’s creation and the role he’s played in history.

The councillor said: “I’ve read the biography the film is based on and it’s a wonderful book.

“I’m excited to see the movie because it’s got a wonderful cast and it’s an incredible story and it’s not just about the invention of the atomic bomb.

“He was a character that lots of people misunderstand and was ostracised when his security clearance was removed and that’s a fascinating story in itself.”'

[musichackathon]

Off-The-Grid Music Hackathon

Explore music and sound off-the-grid. Make music outdoors, without electrical outlets and internet access. Consider, how will working in a park on an island, removed from the streets and offices of the city, change your musical or sonic explorations? How will working without a table and chairs change your process? Will you create a battery powered experience? A physical hardware based musical or sound experience? Will you construct an instrument that does not rely on institutionally provided power or internet access? This hackathon encourages any medium, techniques, technologies, and procedures you can use to create music and sound experiences under these constraints. 

This non-competitive hackathon will include a mix of talks, performances, workshops and presentations by participants. Free and open to all (with RSVP—this event has limited capacity). Come learn, explore, create and share! We have an open call out for talks and workshops - please submit!

:: Date & Time

Saturday, August 5, 2023. Rain date, August 12, 2023. 11:30am - Doors Open 12:00pm - Talks

"Collaborating with the Woods," by Luciform

"Permacomputing and Making Music with Computers Outside," by Cameron Alexander

"Music & Sound Art Off-The-Grid," by Katarina Hoeger 1:00pm - Brainstorming& Hacking 3:30pm - "ReVoice," a workshop with Noah Aronson 5:00pm - Demos & Performances

:: Location

Harvestworks Back Lawn 10a Nolan Park Governor's Island New York, NY 11231

Click here for a map. :: Links

RSVP [REQUIRED, Tickets Limited]

Propose a Talk or Workshop

Volunteer

:: Logistics

This is an outdoor event. Bring any supplies you might need for your auditory masterpieces. Bring hats, sunscreen, bug spray, picnic blankets to work on and water bottles and whatever you need to work comfortably outdoors. Snacks and refreshments will not be provided, but can be purchased from food vendors on the island.

In case of postponement due to impending rain, notifications will be sent out via email to all who RSVPed.

Ferry fares and times: Travel to Governor's Island is free until 12PM on weekends. The last ferry to Brooklyn is at 5:30pm, the last ferry to Manhattan is 11:30pm. No participants will be stranded on Governor's Island.

:: Governor's Island Rules

Select rules of conduct for Governor's Island include: * All visitors, back packs, packages and vehicles are subject to search. * Visitors may bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages. No grilling allowed at Harvestworks site. * Cyclists must follow all posted traffic signs, speed limits, and dismount areas. Bikes may only be locked at designated bike racks. * All visitors must depart the Island on or before the departure of the last public ferry departing Governors Island each day. * Pets and drones are not allowed. * Visitors are not allowed to secure items to trees or buildings. * Commercial activity and solicitation are not allowed.

For a full list, see https://www.govisland.com/plan-your-visit/rules.

:: About the organizers and hosts

This event is organized by Music Community Lab and hosted in back and side yards of Harvestworks and the Institute for Public Architecture at their residencies on Governor's Island.

Music Community Lab (musiccommunitylab.org / musichackathon.org) is a not-for-profit which presents events encouraging exploratory approaches to music and sound.

Harvestworks is a not-for-profit which supports the creation and presentation of art works achieved through the use of new and evolving technologies.

The Institute for Public Architecture is a not-for-profit which uses design to challenge social and physical inequities.

Event graphics by Shagari Guity.

[jdpink]

In March, The Journal of Planning Education and Research published an article by Shoup that made the case for so-called parking benefit districts (something he also wrote about for The Times in 2018). The districts are zones of cities that collect money from parking meters on their streets and use it to improve local services such as sidewalk cleaning, tree planting and graffiti removal. He included a calculation of the potential gains from such a district on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The cheapest off-street parking in the area that he found was $35 a day. If the entire area were metered at that price, the net annual revenue would come to $114 million, he calculated. “Should 111,000 households forgo $114 million a year for public services to provide free but hard-to-find curb parking for a small minority of the residents?” he asked.