Creative built-ins frame this $900K loft in Greenwood Heights

Photos courtesy of The Corcoran Group

September 11, 2020

Creative built-ins frame this $900K loft in Greenwood Heights

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Just north of Green-Wood Cemetery, on the border of Greenwood Heights and Park Slope, this two-bedroom condo is asking $899,000. The apartment is located at 259 21st Street, a 1905 schoolhouse converted into lofts. The transformation left this unit with original oversized arched windows and 12.5-foot-high beamed ceilings, and the owner's creative touch added a cool wall of built-in bookshelves that frames both of the sleeping areas.
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Tenement Museum restarts outdoor walking tours

A young Tenement Museum member was treated to an advance tour after starting her own fundraising for the museum and raising $1,000. Photo by Gemma Solomons

September 10, 2020

Tenement Museum restarts outdoor walking tours

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The pandemic has taken its toll on almost every New York City museum, but the Lower East Side's Tenement Museum has had it especially hard. Because of the cramped quarters of the historic tenement houses that make up the museum, they've been unable to reopen indoors. As NY1 reported in late July, the museum laid off 76 part-time employees, 71 of whom were tour guides. But there's now a glimmer of hope for the museum that educates people on the history of immigration to New York in the 19th and 20th centuries. They will be restarting their outdoor walking tours for single household groups beginning this weekend. 
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Refusing to wear a mask on MTA trains and buses will cost riders $50

Photo: Marc A. Hermann / MTA New York City Transit on Flickr

September 10, 2020

Refusing to wear a mask on MTA trains and buses will cost riders $50

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Riders on public transit in New York who refuse to wear a face mask will now be fined $50, Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority announced Thursday. Starting Monday, riders of the city's subway and buses, the Long Island Rail Road, and Metro-North will be subject to the new penalty for not complying with the mandatory face-covering rule, put in place by executive order in April.
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The best apartments in NYC you can rent for less than $3,000/month
September 10, 2020

The best apartments in NYC you can rent for less than $3,000/month

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With New York City's listing inventory hitting its highest level in 14 years and net effective rents still falling, according to a new report by real estate appraisers at Miller Samuel, this may be the best time for renters to snag a good deal on an apartment. This week, we're taking a look at the best rentals currently on the market for under $3,000/month. From a Brooklyn studio with outdoor space and on-site laundry to a bright corner one-bedroom on the Lower East Side, find out just how far $3,000 will get you in NYC right now.
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Village Halloween Parade cancelled for only the second time in 47 years

Photo by Steven Pisano via Flickr cc

September 10, 2020

Village Halloween Parade cancelled for only the second time in 47 years

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Though the Village Halloween Parade was just a small neighborhood gathering in 1973, it has taken place and grown every year since then except after Hurricane Sandy in 2012. This year, however, the beloved event is being cancelled for the second time ever due to COVID-19. Jeanne Fleming, who has been the director of the parade since 1985, broke the news yesterday to the Post, but promised New Yorkers a special "trick" in its place, though she's remaining mum on those details for now.
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Over the last four years, sale prices at Trump-branded condos dropped by 25 percent

Photo by Loozrboy on Flickr

September 10, 2020

Over the last four years, sale prices at Trump-branded condos dropped by 25 percent

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While some of Donald Trump's family businesses have managed to profit from his presidency, his condo buildings in New York City continue to see significant price drops. According to a new report from CityRealty, owners of apartments at Trump-branded buildings in the city are "eager to get out," even willing to take a significant loss on their properties. From 2016 to 2020, overall closing sales prices at nine Trump-branded condos dropped by 25 percent, according to CityRealty's index tracking prices at Manhattan buildings owned by the Trump Organization.
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Built in 1693, Sag Harbor’s oldest home lists for $1.5M

Photos courtesy of Compass

September 10, 2020

Built in 1693, Sag Harbor’s oldest home lists for $1.5M

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Built 327 years ago, this charming cottage is thought to be the oldest home in Sag Harbor Village, however, it wasn't built in Sag Harbor. According to past listings, the home was actually constructed in Sagaponack and then moved five times before settling in Sag Harbor, where it remains today at 64 Union Street and is asking $1,550,000. The original part of the house retains its exposed ceiling beams, wide-plank wood floors, and two working fireplaces. As a bonus, there's a separate studio structure on the property that would make a great guest house.
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For $2.5M, this Woodstock estate comes with three stone homes, a koi pond, a treehouse, and more

Photos by Tyler Blodgett for Heather Croner Real Estate Sotheby’s International Realty

September 9, 2020

For $2.5M, this Woodstock estate comes with three stone homes, a koi pond, a treehouse, and more

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It makes sense that this upstate estate shares the same folksy, comfortable feel as its Woodstock, New York location. Its current owner is Michael Lang, co-creator of the Woodstock Music Festival in 1969. Set on nearly 17 acres, the property features a 5,000-square-foot main stone house, a second stone home, a cottage with a greenhouse, a koi pond, a pool, an orchard, a treehouse, and gorgeous mountain views. Known as Happy Brooks, the estate was built in 1929 and is now on the market for $2,450,000.
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New York City will open indoor dining on September 30

Photo by Marcus Herzberg from Pexels

September 9, 2020

New York City will open indoor dining on September 30

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Restaurants in New York City will be able to resume indoor dining on September 30, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Wednesday. Capacity will be limited to 25 percent with strict coronavirus-related regulations in place. In addition to the task force led by the State Liquor Authority, the city will provide 400 inspectors to oversee compliance at restaurants. Cuomo said the state will also rely on city residents to report any violations. "I believe in New Yorkers to do the right thing," the governor said during a press briefing.
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Sting, Norah Jones, & more to perform in free SummerStage Jubilee virtual concert

SummerStage 2019; Photo © 6sqft

September 9, 2020

Sting, Norah Jones, & more to perform in free SummerStage Jubilee virtual concert

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A free concert benefiting New York City parks programs will be live-streamed next week, with a number of renowned artists participating. Hosted by the City Parks Foundation, the SummerStage Jubilee takes place virtually on September 17 with performances from Sting, Norah Jones, Trey Anastasio, Rufus Wainwright, Leslie Odom Jr., Rosanne Cash, Emily King, PJ Morton, and more. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the foundation put its annual free outdoor concert series in Central Park, online for all to enjoy, dubbing it SummerStage Anywhere.
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You can win a private session at Grand Central Terminal’s ‘hidden’ tennis courts

Photo courtesy of Grand Central Terminal

September 9, 2020

You can win a private session at Grand Central Terminal’s ‘hidden’ tennis courts

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A contest launched on Tuesday that is tailor-made for lovers of tennis and quirky New York City history. Grand Central Terminal's "Game, Set, & Match" contest will provide one winner and a partner an hour to play tennis at the iconic transit hub's Vanderbilt Tennis Club, located in a hard-to-find location on the terminal's fourth floor. In addition to the free match, the winner will receive $300 in gift cards for Grand Central Terminal vendors.
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For $1.8M, a treetop retreat upstate with 24 acres, Scandinavian design, and a ‘party barn’

Listing images courtesy of Houlihan Lawrence

September 8, 2020

For $1.8M, a treetop retreat upstate with 24 acres, Scandinavian design, and a ‘party barn’

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Less than an hour from the George Washington Bridge in the charming town of Cornwall, New York, is this hidden treetop escape. Situated on 24 gated acres, the property consists of a Scandinavian-inspired wood and stone main house, a resort-style pool with a waterfall, and a separate 1,700-square-foot party barn complete with an indoor basketball court, bar with keg tap, and gym. The home has been listed as a vacation rental on Airbnb for a whopping $1,286 a night, but the entire property is now for sale for $1,850,000, and it can come fully furnished.
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Annual 9/11 dance tribute at Lincoln Center will be live streamed

Photo by Lincoln Center

September 8, 2020

Annual 9/11 dance tribute at Lincoln Center will be live streamed

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An annual dance performance in New York City commemorating September 11 will be live-streamed this year. On Friday, the Buglisi Dance Theatre and Lincoln Center, in partnership with Dance/NYC, will present a "reimagined" Table of Silence Project 9/11, a multi-cultural performance calling for peace and global unity. Created and choreographed by Jacqulyn Buglisi, the yearly performance first debuted in 2011, on the 10th anniversary of 9/11.
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Chelsea Flea returns this weekend with new Smorgasburg vendors

A previous view of Chelsea Flea. Map data © 2020 Google

September 8, 2020

Chelsea Flea returns this weekend with new Smorgasburg vendors

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After closing in December and being unable to reopen this spring due to the pandemic, the beloved Chelsea Flea is returning this weekend. The outdoor flea market will have more than 40 antique and vintage dealers (some old favorites, some new), as well as a new partnership with Smorgasburg that will bring some great food options.
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356 years ago, New Amsterdam became New York City

Jean Leon Gerome Ferris’s painting “The Fall of New Amsterdam, which shows New Amsterdam residents begging Peter Stuyvesant to surrender to the British. Via The Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division.

September 8, 2020

356 years ago, New Amsterdam became New York City

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On September 8th, 1664, Dutch Director-General Peter Stuyvesant surrendered New Amsterdam to the British, officially establishing New York City. To take part in the fur trade, settlers from the Dutch West India Company first established the colony of New Netherland in 1624, which would eventually grow to include all present-day boroughs, Long Island, and even parts of New Jersey. The following year, the island of Manhattan, then the capital, was named New Amsterdam. But when Stuyvesant's 17-year run as Governor (from 1647 to 1664) turned unfavorable, he ceded the island to England's Colonel Richard Nicolls, who had sent four ships with 450 men to seize the Dutch Colony. The name was promptly changed to honor the Duke of York and his mission.
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New York’s COVID-19 infection rate has been below 1 percent for one month straight

Photo by Anthony Quintano on Flickr

September 8, 2020

New York’s COVID-19 infection rate has been below 1 percent for one month straight

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Once the epicenter of the coronavirus pandemic, New York now has one of the lowest infection rates in the country. For four weeks straight, the percentage of positive virus tests has stayed below 1 percent, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Monday. At the peak of COVID-19 this spring, the state was reporting over 10,000 new cases and hundreds of deaths per day. On Monday, there were 520 new cases, with 0.88 percent of tests coming back positive, and two deaths statewide.
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$2.8M Upper West Side penthouse has a 3,000-square-foot terrace and a solarium

Photos courtesy of Compass/Martin Eiden Team

September 8, 2020

$2.8M Upper West Side penthouse has a 3,000-square-foot terrace and a solarium

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For classic Upper West Side living, there's nothing quite like the co-ops that line West End Avenue. But this penthouse at 465 West End Avenue takes things a step further, exuding all the pre-war elegance you'd hope for, along with a glass solarium and a massive, 2,900-square-foot terrace. It's currently asking $2,775,000.
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FEMA pulls funding for sanitizing schools and subways, according to officials

Photo: Patrick Cashin / MTA New York City Transit

September 4, 2020

FEMA pulls funding for sanitizing schools and subways, according to officials

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A recent rule change by the Federal Emergency Management Agency could take away funding for disinfecting subway cars and city schools, Sen. Chuck Schumer said on Thursday. New guidance from the agency says states need to cover the costs of disinfectants, personal protective equipment, temperature scanners, and other cleaning-related items that have been reimbursed by FEMA since March, the start of the coronavirus pandemic in the U.S. Schumer called the change a "downright dirty decision" made during a time when New York and the rest of the country continues to fight against the spread of the virus.
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NJ’s American Dream mall will reopen October 1

Rendering courtesy of Triple Five Group

September 4, 2020

NJ’s American Dream mall will reopen October 1

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New Jersey's American Dream megamall will reopen its doors next month after shuttering for six months because of the coronavirus pandemic. Earlier this summer, the mall's future looked bleak, with developer Triple Five Group missing mortgage payments and multiple tenants leaving the site. But with American Dream's indoor ski park officially running again and retail stores and attractions set to reopen on October 1, the mall's luck may be turning around.
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New York is looking for ‘leaf peepers’ to keep track of fall foliage

Image by Pierre Blaché from Pixabay

September 4, 2020

New York is looking for ‘leaf peepers’ to keep track of fall foliage

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Admit it--you can't wait to get that perfect #fallfoliage shot. But if you want to take it a step further, you can volunteer as an official "leaf peeper" for the state of New York (h/t Time Out). I LOVE NY, the state's tourism agency, is growing its statewide team of volunteers who submit weekly reports on the status of foliage in their given areas.
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U Thant Island: Manhattan’s smallest island that’s off limits to the public

Photo via Wiki Commons

September 3, 2020

U Thant Island: Manhattan’s smallest island that’s off limits to the public

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Between the United Nations building and Long Island City sits a tiny 100-by-200 foot piece of land, known as U Thant Island. The East River man-made enclave is just south of Roosevelt Island and legally part of Manhattan. As Atlas Obscura discovered, the land did not exist until the 1800s when a trolley tunnel was dug beneath the River to connect Manhattan and Queens. While U Thant looks like a nice place to get some sun and relax, the island remains closed to the public as a bird sanctuary.
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For $1.7M, an award-winning tiny house in the Amagansett Dunes

Listing photos courtesy of The Corcoran Group

September 3, 2020

For $1.7M, an award-winning tiny house in the Amagansett Dunes

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The Amagansett Dunes is a seaside stretch of this Hamptons enclave that is full of beach cottages and casual vacation homes. And though this property at 9 Ocean Lane fits both those bills, it's really quite unique. Designed by Bates Masi + Architects, the home is only 600 square feet due to local and FEMA regulations. However, the architects used these restraints to "explore the geometry of the building in section and how it can expand our perception of space," according to their project page. The award-winning two-bedroom residence is now for sale $1,725,000 and it even comes fully furnished.
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Cuomo says indoor dining could resume with an NYPD task force enforcing COVID-19 rules

St. Marks Place outdoor dining; Photo by Eden, Janine and Jim on Flickr

September 3, 2020

Cuomo says indoor dining could resume with an NYPD task force enforcing COVID-19 rules

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Indoor dining could resume in New York City only if police are able to enforce compliance of coronavirus regulations at restaurants, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Thursday. During a call with reporters, the governor said he could allow restaurants to open for indoor dining if the city creates a task force of NYPD officers designated to oversee compliance. Cuomo said he plans to discuss the issue with City Council Speaker Corey Johnson, who on Wednesday called for an immediate start of indoor dining, which has been allowed in every region in the state except the five boroughs.
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After threat to defund NYC, Cuomo says Trump will need ‘an army’ to walk down the street

Photo of Donald Trump via Wikimedia Commons; Photo of Governor Andrew Cuomo via Wikimedia Commons

September 3, 2020

After threat to defund NYC, Cuomo says Trump will need ‘an army’ to walk down the street

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"Forget bodyguards, he better have an army if he thinks he’s gonna walk down the street in New York," Governor Andrew Cuomo said last night in response to Donald Trump's new claims that he's planning to defund New York City. After sending a five-page memo to the U.S. Attorney General and the Office of Management and Budget about Portland, Seattle, Washington, and New York City, Trump Tweeted, "My Administration will do everything in its power to prevent weak mayors and lawless cities from taking Federal dollars while they let anarchists harm people, burn buildings, and ruin lives and businesses."
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$1.65M Bed-Stuy townhouse has two apartments and lots of character

Listing photos by RISE Media, courtesy of The Corcoran Group

September 3, 2020

$1.65M Bed-Stuy townhouse has two apartments and lots of character

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This Bed-Stuy townhouse 671 Hancock Street has a lot going for it. First, it's got tons of character, including rustic brick walls and exposed ceiling beams. Second, it's a two-family with an owner's duplex and a garden rental. And third, the $1,650,000 price makes it a great investment for all that you're getting.
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First online-only Whole Foods ‘store’ opens in Brooklyn

Photo courtesy of Amazon/ Whole Foods

September 2, 2020

First online-only Whole Foods ‘store’ opens in Brooklyn

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While new Whole Foods stores in New York City typically open to fanfare from lovers of the grocery chain, a new location in Brooklyn won't get the same in-person hoopla. The first-ever online-only Whole Foods "store" opened in Brooklyn on Tuesday, dedicated exclusively to fulfilling online grocery orders. The new store, which has been in the works for over a year, will not allow any customers inside.
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18th-century Sag Harbor home is a mix of history and whimsy for $3M

Photo credit: Mike Heller

September 2, 2020

18th-century Sag Harbor home is a mix of history and whimsy for $3M

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This picture-perfect Sag Harbor home was originally built in 1791, and a modern restoration in 2013 brought it "back to its former glory," according to the listing. After spending some time as a $1,950/night vacation rental, the home is now on the market for $2,950,000. Inside, the three-bedroom house mixes historic bones with whimsical details, a combo that is echoed outside, where a pergola-covered dining area and secret garden surround the pool.
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Free outdoor sculpture garden opens at Rockefeller Center

Illusory Progression, True to Myth, and Rhizogenic Rhythms by artist Thaddeus Mosley; Photo courtesy of Diane Bondareff/AP Images for Tishman Speyer

September 2, 2020

Free outdoor sculpture garden opens at Rockefeller Center

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Another free public art installation has opened at Rockefeller Center. In its second year, the Frieze Sculpture at Rockefeller Center opened on Tuesday as an outdoor sculpture garden with works from six major international artists. Originally scheduled to open this past spring as part of art programs offered by Frieze New York, the installation was postponed because of the coronavirus pandemic.
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Hudson Yards’ Vessel and Edge reopen today

Photo of Vessel © James and Karla Murray 

September 2, 2020

Hudson Yards’ Vessel and Edge reopen today

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Hudson Yards announced that both Vessel and Edge reopen today. The 150-foot-tall climbable public art piece and the observation deck that's 1,100 feet in the air (the highest in the Western Hemisphere) have been closed since March, only two days after Edge officially opened to the public. Both attractions will operate at 25 percent capacity and have numerous health and social distancing protocols in place.
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New program asks architects to help design outdoor dining spaces for NYC restaurants

Credit: Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

September 2, 2020

New program asks architects to help design outdoor dining spaces for NYC restaurants

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Outdoor dining has offered a much-needed lifeline to many New York City restaurants struggling because of the coronavirus pandemic. But creating a space on city streets and sidewalks that is both inviting to diners and meets the city's safety standards comes at a cost. To help restaurants reopen, the city's Economic Development Corporation partnered with NYCxDesign, the American Institute of Architects, and the Center for Architecture to launch an online network that connects restaurants with architects and designers willing to provide design help for free.
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$5.75M brownstone in historic Harlem has a secret garden

Listing photos courtesy of The Corcoran Group

September 2, 2020

$5.75M brownstone in historic Harlem has a secret garden

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The brownstones of Harlem's Mount Morris Park Historic District are some of the most beautiful in Manhattan, like this one at 105 West 122nd Street, which is breathtaking inside and out. This grand, Italianate home was built in 1920 and underwent a gut renovation in 2008 in which historic details like stained glass, woodwork, and moldings were all restored. It also included a new design for the rear garden, which is now a magical retreat. The five-bedroom home is now listed for $5,750,000.
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For $990K, this historic Hudson Valley Victorian is for sale for the first time in 100 years

All photos courtesy of Compass

September 1, 2020

For $990K, this historic Hudson Valley Victorian is for sale for the first time in 100 years

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It's hard to believe this stunning home is asking under $1 million, but it's even more surprising that it's available for the first time in over a century. Located in the Dutchess County hamlet of New Hamburg, the Victorian home was built in 1860 and underwent a full restoration in 2003. In addition to its great location, wrap-around porch, and tons of preserved historic details, the property comes with a separate guest cottage that's just as lovely.
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300+ restaurants sign on for $2B lawsuit over New York’s indoor dining ban

By Pictures of Money via Flickr cc

September 1, 2020

300+ restaurants sign on for $2B lawsuit over New York’s indoor dining ban

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The plot continues to thicken over when and if indoor dining will resume in New York City, with New Jersey starting indoor restaurant operations this Friday and Mayor de Blasio hinting that it won't return in the city until a COVID vaccine is approved. And now, a group of 337 restaurants has signed on to a lawsuit that is seeking $2 billion from the city and state. As Crain's reported, the main plaintiff is 28-year-old Queens Italian restaurant Il Bacco, which is just 500 feet over the Nassau County border where restaurants were allowed to reopen indoor dining.
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Madison Square Garden, Barclays Center to serve as polling sites for 2020 election

Photo by ajay_suresh on Flickr

September 1, 2020

Madison Square Garden, Barclays Center to serve as polling sites for 2020 election

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Two major sports arenas in New York City will serve as polling sites for the general election in November, providing a socially distanced way for residents to vote in person. The city's Board of Elections announced that Madison Square Garden and the Barclays Center will both be Early Voting and Election Day poll sites, the result of a deal made between players of the National Basketball Association and the league to resume playoffs after teams refused to play following the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The agreement involved several social justice initiatives, including the use of NBA arenas across the country as voting locations for the upcoming election.
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66-year-old East Village restaurant Veselka shares its COVID struggles

Photo of Veselka by James and Karla Murray for 6sqft. See more here >>

September 1, 2020

66-year-old East Village restaurant Veselka shares its COVID struggles

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After closing in March, Veselka reopened for takeout and delivery at the end of April, and both their main location and their secondary spot in the Market Line food hall are open for outdoor dining. But like so many others across the city, the 66-year-old Ukrainian restaurant is struggling without indoor dining. In a video interview with photographers James and Karla Murray, second-generation co-owner Tom Birchard said, "We need to have more tables than we have right now to survive long-term."
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$6M Park Slope brownstone has an old-world wine cellar and four outdoor spaces

Photo credit: Shannon Dupre

September 1, 2020

$6M Park Slope brownstone has an old-world wine cellar and four outdoor spaces

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Take one look at the old-world wine cellar at this Park Slope brownstone, and it'll make perfect sense that the owners are selling because they're winemakers relocating to California. And the absolutely gorgeous home, listed for $6 million, also has plenty of places to enjoy a nice glass of vino, including four outdoor spaces. The townhouse was completely renovated, retaining its impeccable historic details, while adding modern conveniences and a wonderful, income-producing apartment on the garden floor.
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There’s a professional hockey rink at this $7.7M Connecticut home

Photo by Ravi Capeles

August 31, 2020

There’s a professional hockey rink at this $7.7M Connecticut home

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This unusual home in Stamford, Connecticut is thought to be the only private residence in the Tri-State area with its own private indoor hockey rink. It even comes with a Zamboni, heated team benches, lighted scoreboard, and locker rooms--and it's hosted players from the Rangers. Listed for $7,690,000, the 18,000 square feet home sits on 13 acres and also comes with two guest houses, a pool, and a small lake.
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NYC will resume issuing permits for youth sports leagues next month

Image by Hucklebarry from Pixabay

August 31, 2020

NYC will resume issuing permits for youth sports leagues next month

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The city's parks department will resume issuing permits for outdoor youth sports next month, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Friday. While the fields and ballparks have been open throughout the coronavirus pandemic, NYC Parks will issue permits for organized, low-risk sports played outdoors starting on September 15. Sports leagues for baseball, softball, and soccer will be issued permits, but indoor sports, including swimming, will not be allowed.
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Why is New York’s Houston Street pronounced ‘How-stun?’

Photo by Tdorante10 via Wikimedia Commons

August 31, 2020

Why is New York’s Houston Street pronounced ‘How-stun?’

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One of the surest ways to know an out-of-towner is if they pronounce it "HUE-stun" instead of "HOW-stun" Street. But have you ever wondered why we don't say it like the Texas city? The Times received this question from a reader and turned to Gerard Koeppel's book "City on a Grid: How New York Became New York" for the answer. According to Koeppel, "Houston the city is named after Sam Houston. Our street was named after a fellow named William Houstoun, who was a prominent Georgian, from a long line of Scotsmen."
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As NYC parks see growing garbage problem, city launches anti-trash campaign

Photo by Timothy Krause on Flickr

August 31, 2020

As NYC parks see growing garbage problem, city launches anti-trash campaign

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Coronavirus-related budget cuts and an increase in use may be to blame for the growing garbage problem across New York City green spaces. As Gothamist reported, the number of 311 complaints about garbage and litter increased by 120 percent from the same period last summer. To address this increase in green space litter and to encourage New Yorkers to "show your park some love," the city's Parks Department launched a new "Toss Your Trash" campaign last week.
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New Jersey will open indoor dining and movie theaters for Labor Day weekend

Photo of Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten by cogito ergo imago on Flickr

August 31, 2020

New Jersey will open indoor dining and movie theaters for Labor Day weekend

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Much like his decision to open beaches ahead of Memorial Day weekend, Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey will allow indoor dining to resume across his state this Friday, just ahead of Labor Day weekend. In a Tweet this morning, Murphy said that restaurants and bars can begin operating indoors at 25-percent capacity with social distancing in between tables. In a later press conference, he also announced that movie theaters and other indoor performance venues can reopen on September 4.
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Keith Haring’s personal art collection will be auctioned off to raise money for NYC’s LGBTQ Center

Photo via Nationaal Archief / Wikimedia Commons

August 28, 2020

Keith Haring’s personal art collection will be auctioned off to raise money for NYC’s LGBTQ Center

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On September 24, Sotheby's will open the auction for "Dear Keith: Works from the Personal Collection of Keith Haring." The auction is comprised of more than 140 artworks from Haring's personal collection and is expected to raise close to $1 million, all of which will all go directly to the LGBTQ Community Center. The collection is being donated by the Keith Haring Foundation, which was set up by the artist and activist himself shortly before he passed away from HIV/AIDS in 1990. It includes pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Kenny Scharf, Jenny Holzer, and George Condo.
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New IKEA, LEGO collaboration makes it fun to clean up toys

Courtesy of IKEA

August 28, 2020

New IKEA, LEGO collaboration makes it fun to clean up toys

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For parents tired of picking up and stepping on their kids' pesky LEGO blocks, a new collaboration between the toy company and IKEA may be a perfect solution. The companies on Thursday unveiled their BYGGLEK collection, which includes a series of storage boxes for kids that have LEGO studs on them, perfect for both storing the toys and playing with them. The collection will be available at IKEA stores beginning October 1.
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NYC Council extends cap on food delivery fees until indoor dining resumes

Photo by Patrick Connor Klopf on Unsplash

August 28, 2020

NYC Council extends cap on food delivery fees until indoor dining resumes

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The New York City Council on Thursday voted to extend the cap on commissions that restaurants are charged by third-party delivery services. The legislation, first enacted in May, restricts fees services like Grubhub and Uber Eats can charge to 20 percent per order during a state of emergency. The cap will now be in effect until restaurants are able to resume indoor dining at maximum occupancy and 90 days following. There is still no plan to bring back indoor dining, despite the city meeting the state's coronavirus metrics.
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A modern reno turned this $2.35M Prospect Lefferts Gardens townhouse into a serene family home

Photo credit: DDreps

August 28, 2020

A modern reno turned this $2.35M Prospect Lefferts Gardens townhouse into a serene family home

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This townhouse at 179 Midwood Street in Prospect Lefferts Gardens was built as a classic limestone residence in 1905, but in 2012, local firm von Dalwig transformed it into a modern, serene family home. By removing interior walls and opening up the rear facade to the garden, the architects were able to "accommodate the open living and views desired within a compact house and lot," according to their project page. The three-bedroom house is now listed for $2,350,000.
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This year’s Met roof garden installation tackles ‘the wall’

Installation view of Héctor Zamora (b. 1974, Mexico), The Roof Garden Commission: Héctor Zamora, Lattice Detour, 2020. Courtesy of the Artist. Image credit: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Photo by Anna-Marie Kellen

August 27, 2020

This year’s Met roof garden installation tackles ‘the wall’

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When the Metropolitan Museum of Art reopens on August 29, this year's eighth annual installation on the Iris and B. Gerald Cantor Roof Garden will also be on view. Titled Lattice Detour, the work by Mexican artist Héctor Zamora tackles a prevalent symbol in today's society--the wall. The 11-foot-tall work deliberately screens views of Central Park and the skyline to evoke the feeling of a barrier to viewers. But the bricks are stacked on their sides, thereby letting in light and air and referencing the latticed celosía walls that are used for shade and ventilation in the Middle East, Africa, Iberia, and Latin America.
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Massive Two Bridges projects can move forward without City Council approval

Rendering: SHoP Architects

August 27, 2020

Massive Two Bridges projects can move forward without City Council approval

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Three projects that include the construction of four towers and the creation of nearly 3,000 housing units in Two Bridges meet all zoning requirements and can move forward without City Council approval, an appeals court ruled Thursday. The Appellate Division of State Supreme Court reversed a lower court's ruling that had stopped the Manhattan megaproject from going ahead.
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Revel electric mopeds return to NYC with strict safety rules

Photo by Arun D on Flickr

August 27, 2020

Revel electric mopeds return to NYC with strict safety rules

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About a month after Revel suspended service following the death of two riders, the popular electric mopeds returned to New York City streets on Thursday. But before New Yorkers take the rideshare scooters for a spin, the company is requiring riders to complete new in-app safety training and snap a helmet selfie before every ride. Revel, which first launched in 2018, is also increasing penalties for rule-breaking by using moped data to find riders who ride the wrong way down one-way streets, on sidewalks, and a number of other offenses.
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