#the shops at columbus circle

[dear-ao3]

ok so considering im decently sure a good chunk of the f1 drivers dont actually like driving road cars on roads (fair) i propose a new grand prix to determine the real Best Driver.

behold. the rush hour grand prix.

1 lap. at rush hour on a friday night. all the usual normal commuters and terrible drivers are still on the road along with all the drivers. in the rain. everyone drives a car of their choice. they have to count out all their tolls using change, no one gets ez pass. and you get disqualified if you veer from the instructions (no wrong turns!)

and where does this take place?

thats right.

new jersey. (and new york city) (but mostly new jersey)

here is the proposed track:

we start and end on route 22 right outside the staples. a terrible awful road that would cause harm to any driver, especially european ones. route 22 is so terrible because there is a long stretch that has a center median with shops in it, so theres shops on the right the left and in the center with u turns every 500 feet.

they go east on 22 towards us route 1 and 9 and, thats right, newark liberty international airport. here they have to do a loop around all of the departure terminals before exiting and heading towards jersey city on route 78.

they take route 78 through the holland tunnel, which is a hilarious tunnel to go through as you can literally blink and miss the signs because theyre so small.

upon arriving in new york city they will head towards the canal street station, doing an awful little loopy loop to take hudson street to 8th avenue. new york will prove a challenge for many of them because every other street and avenue there is pretty much a one way in the opposite way.

theyre going to turn right on 23rd street and take it three blocks towards the flatiron building on fifth avenue before doing another turn around and heading back up sixth avenue

here theyre going to turn left on 40th street, then right on 7th avenue then immediately right again on 41st street and then back to 6th avenue which they'll take all the way to the bottom of central park. here they'll turn left onto 59th street then go around columbus circle, exiting on broadway and then going right onto 57th street, which they'll then take down to 11th avenue, then after. few blocks cut over to the west side highway (12 avenue) and then they'll get off at 40th street and enter, you guessed it, the lincoln tunnel.

they'll exit the lincoln and get onto route 3 which they'll take down to route 120 and then they'll do a single doughnut in the parking lot at the american dream mall (a terrible place) before getting onto, you guessed it! 95!! they'll take 95 (devil highway) to 78 to the garden state parkway before getting back on route 22, doing a quick hairpin turn at one the first u turn and then end up straight back where they started. outside the staples.

i think maybe 3 people would finish the whole thing. logan sargeant, being the only american, would come in first. fernando alonso takes second and valtteri bottas takes third.

[kayhi808]

omg omg hi another ask hehe you might know who i am by now.

imagine okay just imagine. reader with bucky and abby out somewhere public like mall or store idk ANYWAYS person at counter says “what a lovely daughter you both have” because they see abby has manners. and reader is taken by surprise so doesn’t say anything so bucky just says thanks and grabs readers hand walking back to car idk make it cute

My favorite Anon with such good prompts! 🥰 I hope you like this one!🥴

You and Bucky just got done taking Abby to Central Park to feed her duckies. You headed across the street to find lunch at the Shops at Columbus Circle. Abby's holding your hands, swinging between the both of you. "What do you feel like eating, Abby?"

"Nu-nu soup!" Abby claps her hands & jumps up and down.

Bucky gives you a questioning look which makes you laugh. "Noodles, Abby."

"Yes, nu-nus."

Bucky shakes his head, unable to suppress his smile, "Ramen? You like ramen?'

"Oh, it so goods, Bucky! I loves it."

The 3 of you walk up to the hostess, "For three please."

The hostess smiles, "Right this way."

Bucky plops Abby in her seat. Menus are passed out & orders are placed. When the food arrives, "Do you need a fork, sweetie?"

"No tank you. I want sticks, please." Over Abby's head you nod & mouth yes to the waitress.

Bucky places her bowl in front of her, "Do you know how to use hashi?"

"What hashi?" Abby frowns at Bucky.

"In Japanese, these are called hashi" he holds his own pair out to her.

"Um...no. Buts i's can learn?" The waitress, overhearing Abby's statement, takes a rubber band out of her apron pocket & ties the top end of the chopsticks together. Twisting it so there's enough resistance, making it easier for Abby to pick up her noodles.

Abby gasps, "Tank you for my hashi!" The waitress smiles but places a fork next to you, just in case.

During the meal, Abby made real progress. The rubber band making it so much easier for Abby to use. Granted, she did dive into the bowl with her fingers a few times, but she did well for her first time. If she struggled too much, Bucky was so good in helping her out. He'd stop to feed her himself; her little mouth looked so cute , working to slurp up her noodles.

Abby was able to pick up her jammy egg as the waitress stopped by your table. "Lookit! I did it!"

The waitress laughs, "Yay! Good job!"

"Tank you for fixing my hashi. You mades it so good!" Abby does a happy wiggle as she chews her food.

As you leave the restaurant, Abby secured in Bucky's arm, enthusiastically waves at the staff. "Tank you! My food was so yums! I loves it!"

The hostess and waitress are up front, "You both have a lovely daughter. So polite and well behaved."

"You're such a good girl dad! You have a beautiful family."

Your eyes grow wide, "Oh..uh."

Bucky throws his other arm around your shoulders, pulling you in to kiss your temple, "Thanks, I'm a lucky guy." He drops his arm to let his fingers entwine with yours as you head to the car.

@waywardhunter95 @wintrsoldrluvr @rebeccapineapple @ordelixx @onceithough @thezombieprostitute @ilovetaquitosmmmm @julvrs @unaxv @s-a-v-a-n-a-34 @winterslove1917 @mrs-bucky-barnes-73 @mrsnikstan @hisredheadedgoddess28 @itsteambarnes @otterlycanadian @purplecolordeer @samsgirl93 @buckitostan @blackbirdwitch22 @littleredwolf @mcucatlady @silas-aeiou @hzdhrtss @florie1 @thecubanator2 @enchantedbarnes @selella @fireeyes-on-teller-dixon-grimes @cjand10 @pancake-05 @ozwriterchick @crazyunsexycool @baw1066

[elletheactualmenace]

Misty Day Date

Pairing: tasm!Peter Parker x reader

Summary: A cute, misty, rainy day date with Peter.

Warnings: None really any, just fluff.

Word Count: 1.7k (I think…)

a/n: I wrote this with a fem!reader in mind, but I think you can read it as either, so do what you will with that information. Also this is not prof read, so I apologize for any mistakes, if I get the energy I will reread it later.

There is a jingle of a bell as you walk into the coffee shop. Its small, but cute and the perfect date site. You had a long week and are in desperate need of Peter. And like always he didn’t say no. So here you were on a Saturday afternoon in Columbus circle at a little local coffee shop.

The jingle of the bell has Peter's head wiping up. He had arrived surprisingly early because he was in the area. There is a cup of hot chocolate opposite him, and a cup of coffee in his hands. You plop into the seat across from him and smile.

“Hey, sorry Im late,” You pull off your sweatshirt and hand it on the back of your chair.

“No,” He laughed out, “I'm just early, which is weird even just saying out loud,” You snicker along with him. Peter's hand slips into yours and your smile widens. In your other hand you take a sip of your hot chocolate.

The weather has been a bit gloomy all week, and if you were honest it was one of the reasons the week had been so long and exhausting. You loved foggy days and rain, but in portions like days, not in weeks. Thats why this date with Peter was so important to you. Just talking to him lifted your spirt.

“So, how has your day been so far?” He asks genuinely curious. His chin is resting in his hand, and the other is still snug with yours. You assume he either finished his drink already, or he was putting it off so he could talk to you. The thought alone made your heart swell.

“Eh, It was fine, Im just glad we are finally together.” You admit, “Im honestly looking forward to that walk in the park you promised,” you chuckle to your self at the cliché. It was just that, cliché, but romantic either way.

“Well, if you want, we can go now. You can drink while you walk right?” He asks is a teasing manner.

“No, I don’t think I can,” You swoon and pretend like its to much to bare, “I think I will need a hero to save me, its to difficult.” You dramatically sigh and Peter laughs and your idioticness. He love you so much, every part of you, even the overly dramatic, even if it was pretend.

“Oh, well you’re in luck,” He quips, “I know a special friendly neighborhood hero who wouldn’t mind helping.” You roll your eyes but laugh. Peter stands up and extends his hand out for you to take. You take it faking the bashfulness in your voice. “For me?” You ask, he smiles and nods. “Yes, for you, only for the best.”

You smile and take his hand, standing up. Peter helps you with your coat, holding it so you can slip your arms into the sleeves. You smile, thank him and kiss his check. Peter quickly snatches your drink from the table and give it to you.

You loop arms with him and walk to the door. The giggle sounds as you pull it open and the staff at the counter bid you a good afternoon. You take a sip of your still hot, hot chocolate. The taste makes your tongue tingle with the hot chocolaty sensation.

The walk to the park is short. After two cross walks and a random biker you and Peter were at the park. The entrance is a misty haze of nature and city mixed in one. It was breathtaking. That’s what you have always thought about your city when it rained.

The rain had past a while ago but the left over water made it clear that it had in fact rained. A couple hours ago you would have been miserable, even with the beautiful weather. But know it’s amazing, because you’re with Peter.

Peter’s arm unlinks with yours and a your eyebrows scrunch. Then he takes your head in his and squeezes it with a smile. You take another sip of your warm drink.

“Hey, Baby?” Peter turns to you and you non for him to continue. “When was the last time you played at the playground?” You stifle a giggle at his random off topic question.

“What d’ya mean? Like properly play? Like skip and swing and run around?” You ask turning to face him more.

“Yeah properly! Like uh.” He pauses thinking of the correct wording, “like frolicking with friends,” now you laugh, loudly.

“You did not just say frolicking,” he looks at you confused, but amused at your reaction.

“What? Am I not allowed to say ‘frolicking’?” He asks you chuckling at your antics.

“No, I mean you can say whatever you want. But it’s just an unusual word to use.” You smile happily at him and he smiles back.

“Well, answer the question N/n.” He raises one of his eyebrows and you purse your lips thinking.

“Hmmm.” You hum and think back. Peter guides you to a near by semi dry bench. You sit next to him and he takes your drink to steal a sip. You smile at him as you think and he hands it back,

“Well, I think the last time was probably when I was like nine or ten,” You pause still in thought. “But that’s not counting the times I had to play with siblings or family members.” Peter turns his whole body to face you. His jaw is slack, wide open at your statement. He looks like he didn’t, and couldn’t believe what just came out of your mouth.

“What?” You ask, and his face is unmoving.

“What?” He questions in disbelief. “What? Are you serious? You stoped going to play grounds and parks at nine?” He shakes his head trying to let it sink in.

“Ten or nine, and I have been to parks, but yeah.” You state blankly. And Peter just smiles continuing to shake his head. You know at this point he is just making fun of you, but you smile anyways. His attempts at making fun of you are always funny.

“You’re crazy baby,” He uttered. He then stands up and once again in the day offers you his hand. Confusion is written all over your face and Peter gives you a reassuring look. Your confused face fades to one of excitement.

“Where are you taking me?” You blurt out as Peter’s grip on your hand yanks your from your seat on the bench. He then begins walking with his hand in yours. The cup of hot chocolate held securely in your other hand.

“To go relive your hasten childhood.” He informs. His statement leaves your mouth hanging open. You laugh out a response, “What’s with you and you big boy words today?”

He smiles still looking ahead. “I would hardly call them ‘big boy’ words. More like, not used often words,”

“Oh, yes. My apologies,” You joke giving a bow. He rolls his eyes.

Peter continues to drag you to where his mind is set. And after a sort walk you both make it to small playground with a fence around it. You understand now what he meant by reliving your childhood.

“We are not,” You breath out in sheer disbelief. Peter just grins from ear to ear. “Oh yes we are.” Peter hastily opens the gate to the playground.

He pulls you with him towards the ladder attached to the main playground tower. You quickly take the last gulp of your now lukewarm drink before tossing it into the garbage can.

You and Peter begin your ascent up the ladder. It’s slippery but Peter is right there under you in case you tripped. He is always there to catch you even if you don’t fall.

As you step unto the tower flooring you walk to the ledge and look out through the trees at the people walking on the streets. It’s peaceful to be up and away from everyone, but watching them living their lives in the bustling city.

Peter watches you with adoration. He loves you so much. More then he could put into words. And every single moment he’s with you his love multiples in so many ways. He can’t imagine a world without you in his life. He doesn’t want to imagine. He hopes he never will.

Peter let’s you been in your thoughts a bit longer before he shoots a web to your hand resting on the railing. The sudden web attached to your hand startles you. You look up but before you can access the situation Peter pulls you toward him. You stumble a bit, but Peter catches you and apologizes about making you trip.

You only chuckle and lean against his chest. Peter rests his hands on your hips and pulls you impossibly closer. He looks down at you with the softest look you think you have ever seen. You shift upwards and press your lips to his in an almost desperate kiss. Your and Peter’s lips move against each others with nothing but overwhelming love and want.

When you pull back you rest against each others foreheads, noses brushing against the other. Your lips tingle with the lingering warmth of Peters pink, plump lips.

Peter’s hand moves to cup your cheek. And he leans down to leave another kiss on your lips. But this one is softer, sweeter. You smile into the kiss and he chuckles sweetly.

“Your so pretty, and so sweet.” He mumbles against your lips. He pulls away to look you in the eyes.

“I love you, so, so much.” He kisses your forehead squeezing his eyes shut. “You have to idea what I would do for you. For us.”

“I would do anything for you. And I mean anything.” You soak in his words. They warm your heart and still manage to give you butterflies. You quickly peck his cheek before you take hold of the collar of his shirt and pulling him in for a long loving kiss.

“I love you. And I love this. Don’t every leave me.” You speak quietly stuffing your face into his neck. Peter’s eyes soften as he smiles at you.

“Never.”

[newyorkshq]

welcome to the monthly schedule! each month, the admins will put together a list of events/activities happening around the city to help you find ways to throw your muses into interactions! we will also be taking event suggestions on the main!

under the cut you will find the monthly schedule for november 2024

feeding america food drive (all month long!) feeding america will be doing a month-long food drive, all donations can be dropped off at libraries throughout the city, as well as the LGBTQ center in Brooklyn. Volunteers needed!

diwali gala @ the moma (november 4th) to celebrate the festival of lights, the hindu temple society of north america is throwing a diwali gala at the moma on november 4th. come eat traditional foods, watch dance and music presentations, and more! all proceeds go to the hindu temple society of north america.

book club @ ink and ivory (november 17) this is a monthly event! ink and ivory host a monthly book club, check the website for the book of the month! this month is a mind spread out on the ground by alicia elliott

the new york marathon (nov 3) put on your running shoes and take part in the worlds largest marathon (or grab a warm drink and cheer the runners on from the sidelines!)

macys thanksgiving day parade (nov 28)The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual parade in New York City presented by the U.S.-based department store chain Macy's. The Parade first took place in 1924, wake up early, grab a coffee and grab your spot, because it will surely get crowded!

ice skating at rockafeller center (all month)Ice skating on The Rink under the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is one of New York’s quintessential winter activities. The Rink sets the perfect scene for every occasion, from special events to the Après Skate Chalets presented by Balsam Hill. It’s a tradition that has never failed to delight, and you’re always invited to join in on the fun.

broadway under the stars Broadway Under The Stars is a five-week series of FREE indoor Broadway performances. 2024 will mark the 10th year of Broadway and the Shops at Columbus Circle teaming up to host Broadway Under The Stars. The performances will take place on the second floor of the Time Warner Center!

native american heritage month spotlight at the American Museum of Natural History (all month long) while the native American heritage exhibit is up all year long, the AMNH is putting a special spotlight on it this month, with guest speakers and presentations throughout the month.

speed dating at wine about it (nov 15th) it's officially cuddle weather, and if you're still looking for that person to cozy up with, or bring home for the holidays, stop on by to wine about it for the speed dating series! each participant gets one month free for the wine about it wine club as well!

[catdotjpeg]

[On 2 December,] Free Palestine protesters in NYC marched from the American Museum of Natural History, made their way through The Shops at Columbus Circle, & ended at Times Square yesterday. [...] NYPD cops barricaded the museum to make sure none of the protesters went inside. NYPD [Technical Assistance Response Unit] was also outside of the museum to surveil & spy on protesters... An NYPD cop in NYPD TARU’s unmarked police vehicle was openly playing on their phone & even waved as I recorded. After rallying outside the museum for a while, people with banners moved to the front & the march began... Protesters then let smoke in the Palestine flag’s colors envelop the museum’s entrance. After NYPD blocked protesters from entering the museum, protesters proceeded to march through the affluent Upper West Side. Protesters got to Columbus Circle, caught NYPD slipping, & ran into The Shops at Columbus Circle, an upscale shopping mall. Shoppers watched from above as protesters did banner drops & chanted “While you’re shopping, bombs are dropping!” [...] NYPD cops on foot (both in & out of uniform), on scooters, on bikes, & in NYPD vehicles followed, surveilled, & repressed the march... NYPD Sgt. Joel Mottola (badge #: 4982) is a very common sight at protests & he makes a *very* good living off of surveilling & repressing protests. [...] Protesters rallied in the street in Times Square, shut down traffic, & chanted before ending the march. Tourists & onlookers also then got on the street to watch.

-- Photo 1 from Katie Smith. Photos 2-3 and recap from Ash J.

[nameless-and-joymaking]

advice for someone from another country visiting new york for the first time for like 2weeks?

ahh honored that you would ask my advice!

General/boring advice: be prepared for Weather (carry a sweatshirt and an umbrella bc the ones they sell on the street are shit, carry a handfan bc the trains aren't always air conditioned), avoid the G and L trains wherever possible, and the 1 train on the weekends, be alert but don't be afraid, pay attention to subway announcements and read the subway maps carefully (ppl will know you're a tourist if you're glued to the map inside the train car but who cares), avoid times square if you can help it, walk fast if you're in midtown everyone will be grateful, dont smile at strangers except old ladies and babies, thank your bus driver. Follow @got2gonyc on insta bc they have a map of public bathrooms that is VITAL (my personal favorite public bathroom in nyc is inside the shops at columbus circle.)

NOW for fun stuff/ Grand List of Recommendations. im going to split this into sections and go into WAY too much depth. im also assuming you're staying in manhattan but going to provide recs throughout the boroughs

Culture

if you have some money to burn, definitely see some theatre. If you like musicals, Kimberly Akimbo has $40 rush tickets (meaning if you show up at the box office right when it opens you can get cheap seats), Parade has $45 rush (if you're going to the city before it closes).

see a film at the Metrograph or Film Forum (metrograph has uncomfy seats tbh but always shows great stuff.) The Angelika is also fine, and Alamo Drafthouse is not NY-specific but it's cool.

go to The Strand! not on a weekend bc it's far too crowded but there are just so. many. books. or go to a community bookstore like Word Up in Washington Heights or Bluestockings downtown (lots of queer and political books)

You gotta do a museum or two. The Museum of the Moving Image in Queens is all about film and if you love movies, it is beyond delightful. You can spend a whole day at the Met just wandering, but if you like an agenda, I really recommend going to the Dutch painting collection in Gallery 964 and checking out my favorite painting I've ever seen up close, as well as the sculpture garden in the American Wing, the Asian Wing, the Islamic Wing, and the Egyptian exhibit (you have to walk through it to get to a bunch of other things anyway). There are some van Goghs there, too, and the costuming exhibit and and and-- ok i'll stop here. The American Museum of Natural History has the ability to make you feel like a kid again if you were into science as a child.

Lots of museums, including El Museo del Barrio, Bronx Museum of Art, and the Museum of Jewish Heritage have days where admission is free. Lot of the galleries in Chelsea are also free every day (including the Gagosian Galleries on West 24th and the Chase Contemporary)

Visit a library! The big one in midtown or a smaller one (Morningside Heights Library by the Columbia campus is nice, I like the Mosholu one in the Bronx as well)

Food

you cannot leave NY without having a good NY bagel. Downtown: Bagel Bob's. Uptown: Pick-A-Bagel. Bronx: Riverdale Bagels (you need a bus to get to this one, or a long walk, but worth it.) Downtown, midtown, and Brooklyn: Russ and Daughter's. any old dollar pizza place is probably great, but if you want to be fancy, go to Luzzo's on the upper east side.

if you eat fish, Astoria Seafood is a MUST. fresh, delicious, no frills, BYOB. easy to get lost on the way there if you don't know Queens, so be careful.

Queens in general is a great place to eat. Most diverse urban community in the world! Mama's Empanadas (right by the Museum of the Moving Image, on Steinway Street) is a strong recommendation there, as well. Hot pot, bubble tea, Greek food, and momos are, as a general rule, very good in Queens.

if you want relatively affordable sushi and sake, Marumi is my go-to in Manhattan.

if you want a bougie brunch or dinner, go to Lido in Harlem. Any Jamaican place in Harlem or buffet-style southern food is likely to be good if you want to be adventurous and just pick one. Pies n Thighs in Brooklyn is also good southern-inspired food if you eat meat.

Tasty Handpulled Noodles in Chinatown (there's one on Doyers and one on 9th ave) is some of the best Chinese food. Chinatown Ice Cream Factory is upsettingly expensive but very delicious.

If you like to cook, go to Kalustyan's in Little India and get yourself some spices. They have more kinds of pepper there than you've ever seen in your life.

there is a sandwich shop in the Bronx i will ONLY tell you about via dm bc i won't have my secret faves revealed in a public forum.

lmk if you want Fancy-fancy recs for food, I can make a whole other post.

Green Spaces/Nature

Wave Hill up in Riverdale is beyond beautiful, and free on Thursdays. A bit of a trek from any trains, buses involved etc, but worth it!!

If you're going with friends or peers, a picnic in Central Park (North Meadow by the 103rd st/CPW entrance is a good spot, also Sheep Meadow or the Great Lawn) or just a walk through the park can be amazing. A little touristy, but who's counting.

The Coney Island Aquarium (whether or not you also go to the amusement park) is really nice. Very far from Manhattan, but easy to find (lots of crowds lots of signs)

I don't know Prospect Park in Brooklyn super well, other than the area right by Ample Hills Creamery-- great ice cream, by the way-- but it's pretty and really huge. On that note, also try The Social in Brooklyn for ice cream and DEFINITELY eat an icee from a cart. Churros from a cart in the subway in particular also always hit.

It is tenuous to call this nature but the Union Square Farmer's Market pops up every Saturday and you can buy really good produce/honey/flowers/booze (also, incidentally, right by a good ice cream place, Van Leeuwen's) ((also incidentally, I'm at the market pretty much every Saturday. idk if meeting a tumblr friend is on your want list but yeah.))

[areseebee]

popping in this evening to share something fun aka a snippet of a WIP in honor of ending my fic posting hiatus (more on that in a different post in a minute).

below is about 1.6k words of the beginning of a pre-someday interlude featuring james and erin in new york together for about 12 hours in october 2006, roughly six months before someday starts. this trip is mentioned very, very briefly in chapter 2 and the form of what i wrote below is partially inspired by the film, before sunrise.

October 2006, New York City

“Oh, look at that,” James said, nodding at the trash bags piled up on the sidewalk across the street from where they stood at 2 am, pizza slices in hand. “Rats.”

“Ew! What?” Erin said, glancing up mid-bite to see two rats scurrying in and around the bags of trash as they scavenged. “Oh, that makes me want to boke. Eugh, look at their wormy tails. Is it weird that there are two of them? Do rats hang out together?”

“I dunno,” he said, shrugging and taking another bite. “Guess these do. Rat friends. Just hanging out, having a good time together, getting food. Hey, like us! It’s sort of nice.”

“Cheers to that,” she said, holding up her pizza.

“I am not cheersing to ‘rat friends,’” he said indignantly.

“You’re the one who said it,” she said, offering her pizza up again. He refused to return the gesture. “Fine. Cheers to us, then. For making 12 hours in the same city work.”

“Cheers to us,” he said, bumping the end of his folded slice against hers before taking another bite.

“How much time before you have to leave for the airport?” she said, hiking her jacket sleeve up to check her watch. “Oh. An hour. Well – what do you want to do in our last hour together?”

“Hmm,” he hummed thoughtfully, chewing. “Let’s just walk. Is that ok?”

“Suits me,” she said, taking a last bite and tossing the grease-soaked paper plate in a nearby bin. “Shall we?”

They set off down the sidewalk together, James wincing as his feet hit the sidewalk. His feet were sore. He wasn’t sure they’d ever been this sore before, but he also didn’t think he’d managed to walk quite this much before.

They’d been walking for hours – since 3 pm the following afternoon when Erin had traversed the seven blocks from her Midtown Manhattan hotel to meet him at Columbus Circle so they could walk Central Park together to the Met.

“I want to see that roof exhibit, and I want to see that big temple thing, and then the gift shop, and then I don’t care what we do,” she’d said on the phone the week before. “And then I just want to walk. Anywhere. And eat good food.”

“It’s a plan,” he’d answered.

He’d waited anxiously at the corner, trying to spot her early through the throngs of people on what ended up being a clear, sunny day, but he’d been looking in the wrong direction when she bounded up to him with a grin on her face. She threw her arms around his shoulders for a hug, and said “Hi” against his neck. He’d stepped back almost immediately when he’d felt her speak the words against him. It was better that way. Safer, probably. Whatever that meant.

“Hi,” he said back, still holding her elbows in his hands to keep her at half an arms’ length. His cheeks already ached from his smile. “How are you? How was your flight? Should we go?”

“Lead the way,” she’d said, so he did, and they walked through the park’s yellow glow as the sunlight filtered through the autumn leaves and the dead leaves crunched under their feet.

“It was sort of miserable,” she said after a moment of their crunching footsteps.

“What was?” he asked, glancing at her. When he caught her eye again, he failed to stifle his smile and looked away.

“The flight,” she answered. “Not so long, you know. But I couldn’t sleep at all. Too nervous. My brain wouldn’t shut up. I’m so fucking tired,” she laughed half-heartedly.

He stopped and turned to her. “Are you sure you want to go today? You should get some sleep. I can walk you back to your hotel.”

“No! No. I’m fine. Besides, I’m supposed to stay awake, right? Until a normal time,” she shrugged, and motioned to him to start walking again.

“I’ll get you back early, then,” he answered decisively, shifting a step to the right and bumping shoulders with Erin as he avoided a passing runner.

“Maybe,” she smiled up at him.

“Why were you nervous?” James asked, resuming his distance and intentionally kicking a small pebble a meter ahead of them. When they got close enough, Erin kicked it forward a measure more, back to him. 

“Oh. I don’t know. Publisher meeting, I guess. New York City. Even London doesn’t feel this big to me. I’ve just been nervous. I’m not now though,” she rushed to clarify as if she were worried she’d offended him. “Not with you. I just kept thinking – get to the airport, customs, cab, hotel, James. My ma made me bring an international calling card. She even exchanged for a whole roll of coins – quarters – just in case I got lost and needed to use a payphone,” she snorted.

“Mary shouldn’t worry. I wouldn’t let you get lost,” James answered, bumping into her shoulder again but intentionally this time. A gesture of reassurance; the only way they ever touched each other anymore, except for the hugs he’d get when it was just the two of them and when it’d been at least three months since she’d last seen him. That was the threshold, he’d discovered.

“I know,” she said, smiling up at him again.

“I’m surprisingly good at navigating in a city,” he added.

“I know,” she repeated.

“Does she know I lived in London for 15 years and took myself to school for eight of them?”

“She knows!” Erin laughed. “Jesus. Don’t remind her of that. It makes her all moody and then she takes it out on me as if it’s my fault.”

“It’s no one’s fault,” he said decisively.

“Sure,” Erin said.

“It’s not,” he insisted again.

“Ok! I didn’t say it was,” she said, holding her hands up in surrender. “I didn’t say it was.”

“Your tone implied –”

“I’m not trying to argue,” she said, tugging on the elbow of his jacket. “Especially when I’m not going to see you again for forever after this.”

He pursed his lips but felt the crease between his eyebrows relax again. “It’s not forever. Maybe a few months.”

“You’ll miss Christmas and my birthday. Forever.”

“You missed my birthday,” he pointed out.

“Well I’m here now, aren’t I? Not even a month late. That’s not so bad.”

“No, not so bad. Do I get a gift? What are you going to give me?” he asked, giving her a sideways glance.

“I’m here now, aren’t I?” she repeated, shooting him a cheeky smile.

“That’s exactly what I expected you to say,” he responded, shaking his head in exaggerated disappointment. Being honest, he liked that he knew what she was going to say even if it was something self-aggrandizingly ridiculous. “Hold on, let’s go this way,” he said, motioning her to a side path that veered left.

“I’ll take you to dinner. Ok?” she said, following his direction. “A nice dinner. Wherever you want to go.”

“Sure,” he laughed.

“We’ll get…” she said, thinking, “Steak. And drink lots of wine,” Erin said. “Like real adults.”

“I thought I was going to get to choose.”

“You can!” she insisted. “Wherever you want to go – where there is also steak and wine.”

“Sure,” he laughed again. “I’m surprised you can afford steak and wine. Is the first book deal that lucrative?”

“I have a per diem,” she said, watching a couple bundled up next to each other sitting in a slant of sunlight on a boulder halfway across the lawn from them.

“Oh so that’s why I get dinner.”

“Shut up,” she said, shooting him a look to go with it. “I have to spend it somewhere. I’m spending it on you. On us. To celebrate.”

“My birthday?”

“A lot of things. The book. New York. Seeing you.” He hummed his agreement in response. He felt her eyes on him, but resisted the urge to meet them back. “God, somehow I think you’re taller. You always seem taller. I always think so. What’s with that?”

“Do I? I didn’t know you thought that,” he said, looking at her in surprise. It was her turn to avoid his glance as she shrugged and looked ahead in the direction they were walking. “Maybe you’re getting shorter.”

“Aye, maybe,” she sighed. “That’s probably it. Mammy says I’m growing a hunchback from sitting in front of my computer all day. What do you think? Hunchback?” she asked, stopping and turning her profile to him, hunching her shoulders over for effect.

He pretended to consider and then nodded. “We’ll have to install you in Notre Dame the way you’re going.”

“Aye, that’s what I thought too. Just think of the novels I’ll write. You can make a film about me.”

“You’re always trying to get me to make a film about you.”

“I am very interesting subject matter,” she sniffed. “A young, beautiful, successful writer who is slowly turning into a hermit and will one day write masterpieces in the attic of a cathedral? You should get started now,” she said, flicking her hair over her shoulder for effect – or, what little length of it reached her shoulder.

She’d cut her hair a few years back – too short, she’d said at the time: “That’s why they say don’t cut your hair in the middle of an identity crisis” – but, even as it had grown out, she’d never let it get much past her shoulders again. He liked it. It suited her. Especially in this golden light. Her blonde hair seemed to glow.

Her elbow brushed against his as she stuck her hands inside her jacket pockets. “Sorry,” she muttered half-heartedly, but didn’t move to put any distance between them.

He didn’t think too much of it. Bumping shoulders, brushing elbows – that was easy to do in a place like New York City. In a place like New York City, there was no such thing as personal space. And that made it easy to embrace it with Erin, instead of worrying about it and what it might mean.

“This way,” he said, indicating the direction. “We’ll stay on this path for a while.”

[shieldretired]

@trcnsitioncl gets a starter for Matt

                            IT'S A STORMY, OVERCAST DAY when Steve steps out of the DA's office in midtown Manhattan, now officially no longer a traitor to the United States of America and welcome on American soil. He expected questions, conditions, something, but the stressed-out attorney shoved the legal paperwork into his hands and then hurried to another meeting. Steve guesses something mundane like not signing the Sokovia Accords pale when faced with half of Earth's population turning into dust. 

                         He turns north, face lowered against the sharp wind. Instead of the usual busyness, the streets are empty and gray. Dry leaves and broken glass from smashed shop windows scrunch beneath his shoes as he walks past the subway station and toward Columbus Circle. He doesn't know what makes him stop, but he ends up in front of a looming brick building with a copper sign declaring it Clinton Church. He stares at the massive oak doors for maybe a minute before the cold wind and an unexplainable tug in the pit of his stomach push him to enter. 

                           It's only dimly lit and smells of dust and granite, which is a comfort, somehow. Steve walks down the aisle, hands in the pockets of his coat, and then sits in the third pew, looking at the altar and Jesus suffering on his cross. He wonders if God will ever forgive him for failing so spectacularly. He wonders if the sickening knot in his chest will ever go away.

                           A door snaps shut, startling Steve out of his apathetic staring. He turns his head to find another man about his age (well, his biological age, at least) walking down the cloister. He’s swiping a cane back and forth, and before Steve can think about it, he quickly gets to his feet: “Careful, there’s a sconce at eye level to your right.”

[nycnostalgia]

The Best Shopping Malls to Visit in NYC

When it comes to shopping, there’s no better place to do it than in the Big Apple. New York City has some of the best shopping malls in the world, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for new clothes, a unique gift, or just a fun afternoon, here are the best shopping malls to visit in NYC.

Rockefeller Center: Located in the heart of Manhattan, this iconic shopping destination offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. From luxury stores like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. to high-end department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, you can find something for everyone here. Plus, the historic Rockefeller Center is home to the famous ice skating rink and Christmas tree, making it a great place for wintertime shopping.

The Shops at Columbus Circle: This chic shopping center is located on the second floor of the Time Warner Center. It features a variety of designer stores, such as Coach and Kate Spade, as well as a selection of eateries, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. The mall also hosts a variety of events, from seasonal promotions to art exhibitions.

Fifth Avenue: With its iconic high-end stores and luxury boutiques, Fifth Avenue is the ultimate shopping destination. From big-name retailers like Apple and Prada, to exclusive designer stores like Louis Vuitton and Cartier, you can find something to suit every taste. Plus, with its stunning architecture and world-class restaurants, Fifth Avenue is the perfect place for an afternoon of shopping.

Chelsea Market: This hip shopping destination is located in the historic Chelsea neighborhood. It features over 30 stores, from independent boutiques to upscale restaurants, and an array of food stalls offering everything from artisanal coffee to gourmet chocolate. With its unique atmosphere, this is the perfect place to browse and explore.

SoHo: This trendy neighborhood is home to a variety of stores, from high-end designer stores to independent boutiques. You can find everything from designer apparel to vintage furniture here. Plus, with its cobblestone streets, chic restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, SoHo is a great place to spend the day exploring.

The Mall at Bay Plaza: Located in the Bronx, this shopping center is the largest in the city. It boasts over 150 stores, from designer outlets to department stores, as well as a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. Plus, the mall offers free parking and shuttle service, making it an ideal destination for a day of shopping.

No matter what type of shopping you’re looking for, NYC has a mall for you. From high-end designer stores to independent boutiques, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with its stunning architecture, world-class restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, NYC is the perfect place to shop and explore. So, grab your shopping bags and hit the streets of the Big Apple for a day of retail therapy.

[hitchell-mope]

Hypothetical titles for season thirteen of 88

ETA. Season premiere. Part one. Right as New York elects a new mayor, Jones is given the solemn news of an incoming celestial event that he’s been through twice before. First regular appearance of Julian Hilliard as Barnaby and Jonah Sullivan. First appearance of Michelle Yeoh as Mayor Camilla Bradley.

Preparations. Season premiere. Part two. The precinct is overrun by panicked calls after the news is made public, which leads Jones, Beaumont, Sawyer, Lionel and Minos to hold a televised conference on what approach the public should take.

Who what when. Part one. An up and coming young actor by the name of James Mulgrew is accused of rape by his ex girlfriend. But Winifred knows the truth of what really happened. First appearance of Ross Lynch as James Mulgrew, Sofia Carson as Marisol Cairns and Sofia Vergara as her mother, Maria Cairns.

Where why how. Part two. Following Mulgrew’s suicide right before his innocent verdict, Findlay sets out to weed the truth out of Maria and Marisol Cairns while trying to convince Mulgrew’s grieving father Otto not to do something he’ll regret. First appearance of Woody Harrelson as Otto Mulgrew.

Blood pudding. Part one. Gideon almost falls prey to a cannibal that’s lurking in the sewers under the city

Soylent. Part two. The race is on to find Gideon before the Butcher of Battery Park puts him on the menu

Compassion. Part one. Findlay clashes with the young, overbearing, helicopter mother of a boy who disappeared on a shopping trip to Columbus Circle. Guest starring Britt Robertson as Nora Bateman

Sin of the mother. Part two. Armed with new information courtesy of Nora’s ex husband. Sidney sets out to find Norris before time runs out. Guest starring Nathan Kress as Darion Payne

Change isn’t always easy. Part one. Skipper helps a young, at risk, transgender boy get in touch with his older brother while Thornton prevents the boy’s abusive parents from finding him.

The Institute. Part two. Sidney tracks down Mikey’s older brother while Skipper gets the boy settled in at the Mulligan Institute. Guest starring Joe Keery as Allen Delvecchio.

Que sera sera. Part one. Four separate doomsayers gather crowds outside One Police Plaza. And each threaten to abduct Jones if he doesn’t do something about the comet.

Whatever will be will be. Part two. Jones zaps everyone in the Plaza home early so he can deal with the doomsayers alone.

The Botticelli Comet. Midseason finale. Part one. With little more than 48 hours left to go before the comet breaks through the atmosphere. Final preparations begin for a very different New Year’s Eve.

After effects. Midseason premiere. Part two. Following the comet. At 00:10 AM on New Year’s Day 2053. Sidney makes sure the families are okay. Two weeks later. With magic back. Sidney’s team lead a manhunt for dangerous escaped death row convicts.

Many of one. Part one. Sidney’s team are called to investigate when Ignatius Kennedy is found in a dumpster behind a bar covered in blood. Guest starring Bruce Campbell as Ignatius Kennedy

Multiple. Part two. Constance Bradley (Ming Na Wen) represents Ignatius at his manslaughter trial. But evidence from Marilyn Davenport could turn the tide in his favour. Guest starring Sally Field as Marilyn Davenport, Chris Pratt as Emerson Davenport and Aubrey Plaza as Tatum Mercer

What to do when family leaves you. Part one. Having lived through the comet five times, Clementine decides to not live through a sixth time and opts to Take Her Leave. Much to Delaney’s apoplectic anger. Final appearance of Holland Taylor as Clementine Hauser and Lily Tomlin as Lilith Hauser.

Soliloquy. Part two. In the 300th episode. The Five Families hold Clementine’s funeral. And all wait with bated breath for Delaney’s eulogy. First full appearance of Mallory Jansen as Lilith Christensen

Previous life. Part one. A rift develops between Findlay and Drummond when she finds out he’s been visiting his dying Satyr godparents at a hospice.

Rabbi. Part two. To mend the rift between them, Findlay seems out a rabbi to bless the Wilmington family plot so Drummond’s godparents can be buried there. Guest starring David Schwimmer as Rabbi Aaron Hoffman.

Kind to be cruel. Part one. Almanac (Asher Angel) returns with a favour to ask of Gideon. But to do that he’ll have to fight through an incredibly irate Delaney, Drummond and Andy.

Arizona. Part two. En route to his grand larceny trial, Almanac (real name: Gerald Gauthier), reveals his real family link to Gideon

One trotted out of the peacocks nest. Part one. Drummond makes the decision to move out of the Wilmington Estate and back into the Sullivan apartment in Greenwich. Guest starring David Henrie and Selena Gomez as the latest married heads of The Magistrate, Alberto and Marina Guzman.

Ooga booga booga. Part two. On his first night on his own Drummond gets an unwelcome housewarming visit from an old foe. Guest starring Matt Smith as the Boogeyman.

El tango de Roxanne. Season finale. Part one. In an effort to both support Otto’s grieving process and get Maria to confess to gaslighting Marisol into falsely accusing James of rape, the five families put on a benefit showcasing James’s greatest achievements. But a relation’s return may or may not put a spanner in the works. Guest starring Beyoncé as Melanie Crenshaw. First appearance of Sarah Hyland as Zoey Anne Mulligan.

Is it all worth it. Season finale. Part two. Having gotten Maria Cairns into custody. Birch’s team has 48 hours to get a full confession out of her. All the while Findlay and Sidney become disillusioned with the impotence of the law and Marisol Cairns guilt continues to eat her alive. Final appearance of Sofia Carson as Marisol Cairns.

[johnnyprimecc]

Bad Roman

Bad Roman is a brand new Italian concept launched by the folks from the Quality Branded restaurant group (Quality Meats, Quality Eats, Smith & Wollensky, Don Angie, etc.). Check out the Ride & Review video HERE: The restaurant takes over the space formerly held by Landmarc inside The Shops at the Time Warner Center in Columbus Circle. They’re serving up really nice, innovative cocktails in a…

[themarrero]

The beautifully choreographed Holiday Under the Star Show at the Columbus Circle Shops adjacent to southwest entrance of Central Park at controversial Columbus Circle. If you are cold and need a warm place that also has shops for last minute shopping or just need to warm your hands and ears, go and enjoy the music and beautiful stars that are every changing color. - [ ] #developportdev @gothamtomato @developphotonewsletter @omsystem.cameras #excellent_america @apple #iphone7 @bheventspace @bhphoto @adorama @tamracphoto @nycurbanism @tiffencompany #usaprimeshot #tamractales @nybucketlist @nycprimeshot (at Columbus Circle) https://www.instagram.com/p/CmhMBLZJ7NU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[vbartilucci]

The Shops at Columbus Circle, NYC.

ADAM & EVE: THE IRRESISTIBLE TOUCH OF TEMPTATION

Public statues with well-polished noses because people can't resist the urge to boop the snoot and public statues with well-polished groins because people can't resist the urge to rub some nuts are not opposites, but expressions of the exact same impulse.

[lucacoru]

Stardust

I spy with my little tired eye

A family of three at dinner

It’s her 30th birthday today

And one day more is playing live

I then look in front of me

The man in bright red smiling

What a wonderful world, I think

But she used to be mine is playing

I will pay for all these crimes

I tell him in Columbus circle

What a shameful friend to have

But he just laughs and carries on

But at night I see one life

My life in this city having dinner

A family of three on a birthday

As my heart pumps in bright red

Will the violence fail to spoil the fruit

Will the devil leave me finally untouched

What if the hazy skies are for others

And what if the blue skies are for me

By some force of nature only God controls

by the touch of a father lost in October

Who carried a baby, son of beauty

No violence can go through his skin

Twenty five years later I’d walk

Down Broadway and the Seventh

All the sins might float in my mind

But Abelardo will live finally untouched

Inspo:

Sweet Nothing - Taylor Swift (I spy with my little tired eye)

On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous - Ocean Vuong (Will the violence fail to spoil the fruit)

New York City Boy - Pet Shop Boys (Down Broadway and the Seventh)

[davidpwilson2564]

Bloglet

Monday, October 9, 2023

Indigeneous Peoples Day/Columbus Day. BELOW IS OLD STUFF.

A Columubus Day memory. This tweaking from 2017:

Columbus Day.  There may be a demonstration at Columbus Circle today.  Christopher Columbus has been getting bad press lately and there has been talk of actually removing the statue. 

I am recalling a Columbus Day in the late Sixties. 

I had become friends with fellow percussionist Al Duffy and sometimes worked with him or filled in for him.  Though I was quite new in town Al had been here for several years and acquired many connections with Italian musicians.  One Columbus Day he asked that I join him for a little gig at Columbus Circle (to honor Cristoforo Columbo).  I asked no details except what to bring and what to wear.  Al and I met up at Frank Ippolito’s Drum Shop on Eighth Avenue, slung a couple of marching band drums, and walked up to the Circle, joining some other musicians.  We played some Italian march music (one thinks of the famous Carabinieri) and then on signal were told we’d be playing the Star Spangled Banner. 

.  I started to get what this was all about.  A group called the Italian Anti-defamation League had chosen this at the time and place to speak out on behalf of Italian-Americans.  While that was sinking in, Jimmy Roselli (the “other” singer from Hoboken) came to the microphone and his accompanist, Billy Dennison, sound-checked the small electronic keyboard instrument he had brought along.  Both men looked appropriately glum, as if they had been made to come here.  (The offer they couldn't refuse.) The Anthem concluded and the small crowd applauded and speeches began.  There were as many people from the press as spectators.  Cameras rolled. Photos were taken. I didn’t know any of the speakers, some of whom had heavy accents. 

 Al told me our part of the program was done.  The job paid (not very much) cash.  Walking away, Al and I laughed about the fact that, other than Mr. Dennison, we were the only non-Italians there.

  The same group had a rally at Columbus Circle the following June. This time thousands attended, but Al and I weren’t asked to be there. Good thing too.  That was the year that, during the proceedings, a prominent mob figure, Joseph Columbo (eerie coincidence here with surnames; same as the honoree) got shot. He died of wounds.