Photo by myself, around 25th Street and Sixth Avenue, in Chelsea.
A fleet of tiny three-dimensional schooners in various bright colors were on display in Chelsea, Sunday afternoon.
There were ferris wheels and fancy buildings, too, all in intricate detail. I cannot imagine what holds each of these precious creations together. Each one is glued to a card and pops up when the card is opened.
Wayne, a street vendor, told me he has a table on 40th Street and Madison Avenue in Midtown every weekday. He was working this weekend because the weather was so nice. We've had so many snow days recently, and such delicate items can't be subjected to bad weather.
Wayne referred me to the pop up card website, where you can see all their products. Check out their other items, from Big Ben to merry-go-rounds to butterflies, at www.popupcardny.com.
Wayne, a street vendor, was kind enough to pose for me. He apologized, saying that he was not photogenic, but I disagree. Thank you Wayne!
Related posts: New York's Bravest, on the Upper West Side, On Tenement Life, in the West Village, and Saluting the Flag, Downtown.
Monday, March 9, 2015
Colorful Ships, on Sixth Avenue
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
Street Scene, in Chelsea
Photo by myself, around 25th Street and 10th Avenue in Chelsea.
There weren't any live people on the street the other day in Chelsea, but there were plenty of painted ones. Above, a huge mural depicting a street scene. The streetcar shows a 1945 date the destination of Times Square.
The tall building on the left is typical of some of the older buildings in Chelsea - enormous and brick.
We've finally had glimmers of Spring here! Hurrah! We had so many more grey, lifeless days than usual this year.
Related posts: Larger than life Mural, in the East Village, Musicians Galore, on West 3rd Street, and The Rat Pack, on Avenue C.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Drop Off and Self Serve, in Chelsea
Photo by myself, around 15th Street and 7th Avenue, in Chelsea.
Ah yes. Trucking one's underwear down the sidewalk is a familiar sight to every New Yorker.
Many New Yorkers do not have laundry in their apartments, or even in their apartment buildings. This means hauling a large bag down the street, putting it into a machine, waiting, and hauling it back.
The fancier way about it is to drop it off and let someone else do your laundry. If you don't mind someone touching your underwear, you pay by the pound and wind up with all your laundry folded.
I've always been very stingy so I've done my own laundry. Now Mark and I have our own washer/dryer and we feel very spoiled.
Related posts: Outside Bedford Street Laundry, in the Village, Last Wash, Brooklyn, and Sunday Morning, in Park Slope, Brooklyn.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Remembrance, on 15th Street
Photo by myself around 15th Street and 8th Avenue, in Chelsea.
A white wreath and photo paid tribute to a man named Mario, who passed away just a few days ago. A sign nearby announced the funeral service.
One might be surprised that there are funeral homes in Manhattan. Just about every neighborhood has one.
Most people do not own cars in New York, and local funeral homes allow entire neighborhoods to come together to pay respect.
Related posts: On the Steps of St. Stanlislaus on 7th Street, Remembering Memorial Day, and Remembering Ten Years Ago.
Monday, April 2, 2012
On the Price of a Slice, Downtown
Photo by myself, at 17th and 7th Avenue in Chelsea.
We New Yorkers loves us some pizza.
Some of us are pizza snobs, myself included. I have to admit, after eating pizza in other places and countries, the pizza here is pretty darned good. Even the lowliest, no-name pizza stand will have really good, thin crust pizza served to you within minutes.
The above chap was spotted outside 2 Bros. (Brothers) Pizza, which is a chain here at 11 locations strong, at this writing. I've never eaten here, but like the sign says, slices cost $1 each.
Sunday, April 1, 2012
On the Sidewalk and Whole Foods, in Chelsea
Photo by myself around 23rd Street and Seventh Avenue, in Chelsea.
Several people were seen on the sidewalk sporting paper bags from Whole Foods on Saturday, a popular grocery store chain here in the city.
Whole Foods is often referred to as 'Whole Paycheck', because of the high prices. Regardless, people continue to shop there because the stores are huge, stocked with fresh organic produce and loads of prepared foods.
One reason for this is that I don't know Chelsea too well. I'd drop into the neighborhood to quickly whirl through Bed, Bath and Beyond, a huge housewares store, to get Brita filters. Or I'd swing by to browse at the Housingworks location on 17th Street, a nice used clothing and furniture store.
The major reason for the lack of photos, though, is...how shall I say it? Parts of the neighborhood are not so nice looking. Along 7th and 8th Avenues are a motley assortment of large new and old buildings for various superstores, that lack charm.
I'm terribly superficial, I know. But when I was in the neighborhood last month, I was reminded of the lovely side streets lined with pretty, old brownstones. There was no time at all on Saturday, so I'll have to re-visit the neighborhood soon!
Related posts: Fresh on the Upper West Side, Food on the Brain, and Bright Lights and Cured Meats on the Upper West Side. Read more...
Monday, February 6, 2012
Sweet Treats at the Doughnut Plant, in Chelsea
Photo by myself at the Doughnut Plant, at 23rd Street and Seventh Avenue, in Chelsea.
The Doughnut Plant is a small bakery in Chelsea that specializes in all things donut. Dozens of donut lovers walked in and out while we were there, Saturday afternoon. Suprisingly, no one looked too overweight (!).
You would never think that square donuts existed, but they do. All the donuts sold here are made without eggs, preservatives or food coloring. So you can satisfy your little donut craving without doing yourself in.
We took home one peanut butter jelly donut, one glazed and one wild blueberry. Unfortunately they were so delicious, only the peanut butter jelly donut survived to be photographed.
For the Doughnut Plant website, including a timeline of their history dating back to 1910, click here.
The peanut butter and jelly donut with peanuts mixed in the glaze on the outside, and grape jelly on the inside. When eaten with eyes closed, it tastes mighty similar to a PB&J sandwich.
ps: Did anyone catch the Superbowl last night? Hooray Giants!
Related posts: Outside Baked by Melissa, in Soho, Baked Fresh Daily, in Soho, and On Line for Cream Cakes, Outside.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
The View from 24th Street, Chelsea
Photo by myself around 24th Street and 9th Avenue, in Chelsea.
If you look out from Chelsea northeast, you'll see the Empire State Building.
For orientation's sake, imagine the island of Manhattan. You're on the lower left side. The ESB is near the center of the island.
This is the view from London Terrace Towers. The building fills one city block, bounded by 23rd and 24th Streets on the north and south, and 8th and 9th Avenues on the east and west.
The building is a co-operative and its apartments are charming. There is a gym, garage and indoor pool in the building.
One of the apartments listed for sale there at the moment (not the one in my photo), is a four-bedroom for nearly 5 million dollars. The maintenance fee alone is over $6,500 US per month. For gorgeous photos of the apartment, click here.
I don't have any hard facts, but I guarantee that if you can write 'Empire State Building views' in your real estate ads, the apartment will raise in value.
Related posts: It's a Free Country, After All, A Peek Through Central Park, and The Sky is Falling.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
With Pushcart, in Chelsea
Photo by myself, somewhere in Chelsea.
I've written before that it's not easy for the elderly to get around the city. In fact, it's a mixed bag.
Walking up and down multiple stairs to the subway or to one's apartment can be difficult, and sidewalks are often crowded and uneven. But the buses are a great alternative and they're reliable, too.
If you live in an elevator building, then daily life is much easier. You can get groceries delivered for a few bucks.
Related posts: The Jazzman, 34th Street, Old Friends, in Alphabet City and Older Birds, on Fifth Avenue.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
On Getting Around the City
Photo by myself around 25th Street and 10th Avenue, in Chelsea.
A view at the entrance to a car wash, on 25th Street, near the West Side Highway.
There are gas stations and car dealerships in Manhattan, too.
By the way, the city has announced a bike share program starting in the summer of 2012.
Apparently people sign up with $100 a year. Bike stations will be located all over the place, where you pick up or drop off your ride.
It's a big debate now about whether this is a good idea or a horrible one. Many New Yorkers are very nervous about how congested the sidewalks are already.
For an article in the Gothamist and an assortment of comments, click here.
Related posts: Pedalling Around Columbus Circle, On the West Side Highway and Crossing Broadway, on Wheels. Read more...
Friday, September 16, 2011
On a Cigarette Break, in Chelsea
Photo by myself, around 27th Street and 11th Avenue.
Way west in Chelsea are large warehouse buildings used for storage, offices and art galleries.
I'm not sure what kind of building this was, but it looks like a fellow just received a shipment of bread. He looks like the type who should not be messed around with. Very serious.
By the way, at some delis, a pack of cigarettes costs $15 bucks right now. That's 75 cents per smoke. Smoking is an expensive habit here.
Happy Friday, everyone.
Related posts: Open Spaces, in Chelsea, A Moment Alone, in the East Village and Texting, Schmexting.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
The View from the Far West Side
Photo by myself from 26th Street and 11th Avenue, in Chelsea.
The far west side in the mid-20's is not as dense as you'd think.
This is the view looking northeast from Mark's office at 26th Street and 11th Avenue, in the far west reaches of Chelsea. The building steps back a bit and there is room for a long balcony. What results is an expansive view.
The Empire State Building is ahead, at 35th Street and 5th Avenue. Behind me on the left is the Hudson River.
Because of the recently constructed public park nearby, the High Line, this area is undergoing some change. This neighborhood was rarely trafficked not long ago.
Now the sidewalks are actually populated. Old warehouses have been converted into offices and gallery spaces. In a bit of time, the entire neighborhood will change.
Related posts: High Above Bryant Park, The View from Roosevelt Island and Sunset, from Brooklyn Bridge Beach.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
It All Ends, Above Chelsea
Photo by myself around 19th Street and 10th Avenue, in Chelsea.
Another view from the High Line.
The cataclysmic billboard for the last of the Harry Potter movies looks directed at the High Line structure.
Tenth Avenue is one of the wider avenues. Along its length are apartment buildings, some small stores and restaurants, and gas stations. Above 59th Street, 10th Avenue becomes Amsterdam Avenue.
The Empire State Building is in the background.
Related posts: On Mulberry Street and Small Packages, The Quality Mending Company, SoHo and Our Commander in Chief, Above Seventh Avenue.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
City Portraits - The High Line, Part Two
Photo by myself on the High Line, somewhere around 24th Street and 10th Avenue, in Chelsea.
The second section is open on the High Line, the elevated pedestrian park in Chelsea.
The park now runs from Gansevoort Street in the West Village, all the way up to West 30th Street. It makes use of an abandoned elevated railroad trestle.
The elevated views are pretty incredible. At times, you are winding around the back sides of old tenement buildings or along billboards.
The plantings have filled out quite a bit since this park opened. Above, the Standard Hotel.
A new water feature allows visitors to cool their tired feet. Water skims the surface of several rows of stone. The row where people have left their shoes are open grates for drainage.
At times, the walkway juts out as platforms overlooking the street.
The view north. There is a final undeveloped portion ahead between 30th and 34th Street that includes the rail yards.
The view west toward the Hudson River.
The view east toward Chelsea.
I definitely recommend visiting on a day that is not too sunny. The light colored concrete becomes a reflective surface in the summer, radiating all the heat up at you. It is really, really hot.
For the official High Line site, including its history and a calendar of events, click here.
For an interactive map, click here.
For a look at my first tour of the High Line, click here.
City Portraits is an ongoing, once-in-a-while installment featuring parts of New York.
Related posts: City Portraits - Shelter Island, City Portraits - Central Park and City Portraits - Coney Island, Brooklyn.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
T Shirts with New York Attitude, in Chelsea
Photo by myself around 28th Street and 7th Avenue, in Chelsea.
Ah yes. We New Yorkers certainly have the image of being tough-talking folks. Above, several obnoxious t-shirts printed on black and dark grey, our traditional colors.
Slogans include various swear words we are known to use liberally, starting with the letter 'F'. Among the quotes, 'Duck, Mother F-er', 'Do I look like a f-ing people person?' and 'New York F-ing City'. Nice.
Don't mess with us. Don't even try. ;-)
Related posts: Buying in Bulk, Shopping til Dropping, on Canal Street and On Shopping on West 4th Street, and My Insider's Guide.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
On the Picket Line and Surviving the Heat
Photo by myself around 28th and 10th Streets, in Chelsea.
Members of a construction crew blew their whistles wildly, picketing a job site in Chelsea. I assume the workers were trying to unionize.
What was particularly remarkable was how cool these guys looked. Already by 9am it was in near 90 degrees Fahrenheit, brightly sunny with high humidity. It was beyond hot. It was sweltering, punishing and extreme.
By 9 in the evening, after getting above 100 degrees during the day, it was still stifling. Walking on the sidewalk, people welcomed any relief to the smothering air. It was unhealthy for the elderly to be outside.
Some tips for surviving this heat:
1. Never get on an empty subway car. Forget about it. Most likely, the air conditioning is broken and you'll be sitting there sweating, wishing you were on the subway platform, where at least the passing trains would bring some relief.
2. If visiting New York, bring a couple plastic bottles. Fill them 3/4 way with water at night, leave them in the fridge uncovered. Voila, a frozen water bottle that melts as you walk around. Stay hydrated. Stay cool.
3. Don't overdo it. All too often people faint from the heat. Good thing is, should you faint, don't worry. You won't wake up with your pockets picked. New Yorkers are good people and will rush to your aid.
Related posts: On the Picket Line, in Hell's Kitchen, Waiting on Line, Fifth Avenue and The Latest Thing.
Read more...
Saturday, May 8, 2010
On Collecting Cans and a Rupert Update
Photo by myself in Chelsea, around 26th Street and Sixth Avenue.
You can make money from collecting aluminum cans on recycling day. At 5 cents each, I imagine this fellow did all right. A shopping cart with cans is not an uncommon sight.
Most New Yorkers do not return their cans to collect their nickels. Most supermarkets do not accept cans for return, and it's just too much to carry even more stuff when you're walking around without a car.
I realize I haven't posted a photo of Rupert in ages. The last one was from the winter, when there was snow on the ground.
After a good time playing, Rupert takes a break. (Pardon his muzzle, he needs a shave!)
Here he is after a good morning of playing. It was a humid last weekend, and he was pooped. His favorite outside toy is a big orange ball with feet.
My fiance Mark has been away for work for two weeks, now. Rupert has adjusted well, though sometimes he'll see someone with a similar silhouette and stop in his tracks. I've been running home everyday after work to feed Rupert dinner; caring for him has been more consuming.
Animals adjust so brilliantly to their situations. I am certain there will be much jumping and going nuts when Mark finally returns in a few days (and I mean both the dog and me!).
Related posts: Searching for a Bargain, at the Strand, Movie in the Making, in Alphabet City and Life Goes On.
Read more...
Friday, May 7, 2010
Open Spaces, in Chelsea
Photo by myself in Chelsea, around 26th Street and 7th Avenue.
Unlike the urban sprawl of some cities, New York is an island with limited space. Every square foot has the potential to be something.
Empty lots, the few that exist, are often used for parking. And not just parking, but cars piled on top of one another, in large steel parking contraptions.
Some open lots have been taken over by the city and turned into community gardens. Others host flea markets. The one above is almost non-existent, but there are other decently sized markets in Chelsea, the Upper West Side and Soho.
Related posts: Lost in Translation, Watch Where You're Going in Soho and Crazy Fantasy, Anyone?.
Friday, August 7, 2009
On Curvy Walls and Stone Slabs
Photo by myself in Chelsea, around little West 12th Street and Washington Street.
I'm not 100% of the location of the new apartment building above. I think I took the photo near High Line Gansevoort entrance, a month ago.
I'm sure the building exterior is nearly complete by now. When planned well in advance, the process of putting in glass takes little time.
It's hard for me to believe that I haven't been outside my apartment in over a week. Eek.
I feel nearly 100% now, making my way back from the chicken pox. The sad thing is that I look nothing near normal. I look like one of those zombies that's just climbed out of the cemetery, looking for lunch (!).
Anyway, I wanted to share some photos of a field trip from last week, before I fell sick, to a stone yard outside New York City. The warehouse was huge, filled with slabs of marble, granite, onyx, quartzite and other gorgeous stones.
I went with my boss and the client, to look at slabs we had reserved, before placing the final order. These slabs were pretty large, about 6' by 8' pieces, all stacked against each other.
When you wanted to see a slab, two men would find it in the warehouse, and slip two belts attached to a winch around the stone. The winch picked up the belts, hauling the slab high up in the air. The slab would be brought to the front of the stack.
It was incredible just to wander around the warehouse, looking at these gorgeous pieces of stone. I was absolutely flabbergasted.
Some stone looked too gorgeous to be cut into countertops or bathtub decks, fireplaces or floors. Some looked unreal. Others looked like paintings.
Above, a little difficult to understand, but there is a red ladder leaning up against the stone, which itself reminds me of Van Gogh's Starry Night.
Fortunately all the stone we had reserved looked great. The client was very pleased, and I was relieved.
Related posts: On Public Art at the Lever House, Building for a Greener Environment and Architecture, a Glorified Profession.
Read more...
Monday, July 6, 2009
City Portraits - The High Line, Chelsea
Photo by myself from the High Line, at Gansevoort and Washington Streets in Chelsea. The new elevated park gives views of existing warehouses in the area.
A couple weeks ago I paid a visit to the newest addition to NYC landmarks - the High Line, a public park in Chelsea.
I'd heard vaguely about the project several years ago - something about old elevated railroad tracks being turned into a park. Now I know what the hubbub was about.
This public space is wonderfully designed, using modern materials that manage to refer to the structure's history. Precast concrete pavers are shaped to resemble train tracks, with grass growing in crevices.
At some points, rusty rail tracks are scattered casually on the ground. There are the typical things you expect in a park - plants, paths, benches and water fountains. The difference here is that you're on an old elevated structure, raised above street level.
If you're interested in visiting, I suggest starting at the entrance near Gansevoort Street, where a modern stair literally hangs from the old structure. Travel north, and encounter events along the way - piers that jut out for a view of the Hudson River, an outdoor theater space, and scattered seating areas.
The entrance to the park, at Gansevoort Street. Walking up the stair, you ask yourself - am I inside or outside?
At times, the park traverses below buildings sharing the same aesthetic.
Parts of the concrete flooring rise up to become benches.
The park meanders much like a landscape, allowing for views of self-referential views along the way.
The glassed-in space is an open-air theater that looks out onto the street below.
Dozens of people were sitting on the steps, enjoying the weather. It looked as if something were about to happen.
Large reclining chairs on wheels can be moved along train tracks.
Be aware, though, that besides the buildings, there is little shade along the path. On summer afternoon, it can be hot up there.
Said one European in passing: 'We are closer to the sun!'
Related posts: City Portrait - Washington Square Park, City Portrait - BBQ Block Party, Madison Square Park and Warehousing Art in Chelsea.
