Tag: new york

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2017 NYC Toll Hikes – MTA is really making it hard for New Yorkers

NYC (MTA) voted to keep the base fare flat for another two years in approving the lowest fare and toll increase since 2009, when the MTA committed to a biennial schedule for regular increases.

The plan approved today increased fares and tolls over the next two years by 4 percent – or less than 2 percent annually and less than the rate of inflation. The MTA was able to hold the necessary increases below inflation as a result of the agency’s continued discipline in keeping costs down. The new fares, which take effect March 19, will allow the MTA to continue to provide safe and reliable service.

The 7-Day Unlimited Ride MetroCard, which is heavily used by lower-income and frequent riders, will increase by only a dollar to $32; the 30-day Unlimited Ride MetroCard will increase from $116.50 to $121. Both of these options were the same under the two proposals presented to the MTA Board.

The Single Ride Ticket remains at $3. The cash fare for Express Buses remains at $6.50, making the effective fare with the bonus $6.19.

The following table summarizes these changes:

Fare Types

Current

New Fare

Alternate Option Not Selected

Base MetroCard

Fare/Local Bus Cash Fare/AAR

$2.75

$2.75

$3.00

Metro Card Bonus

Effective Fare with Bonus

$2.48

$2.62

$2.59

Single Ride Ticket

$3.00

$3.00

$3.25

Express Bus

Cash

MetroCard Fare w/ bonus

$6.50

$5.86

$6.50

$6.19

$7.00

$6.03

30 Day Pass

$116.50

$121

$121

7 Day Pass

$31

$32

$32

The majority of Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad customers will see weekly and monthly passes increase 3.75% or less, with rises to monthly tickets capped at $15. Intermediate monthly and weekly ticket increases are also capped at 3.75%. Some one-way fares will have larger increases only because fares must occur in 25-cent increments. For these one-way fares, any increase greater than 6 percent would be not more than 50 cents per ride; West of Hudson customers will see a 2% increase in fares; City Ticket remains unchanged at $4.25.

Tolls will rise less than 25 cents for cars crossing MTA Bridges and Tunnels facilities and using a New York Customer Service Center (NYCSC) E-ZPass, 73% of total crossings. Customers who pay with cash, Tolls by Mail or a non-NYCSC E-ZPass will see increases of 6.3% to 9.1%. This proposal is consistent with the MTA policy to increase the price differential between cash and E-ZPass to encourage E-ZPass use, which is the least expensive way to collect and pay tolls.

The following table summarizes these changes:

Crossing Current New Toll
Robert F. Kennedy Bridge

Throgs Neck Bridge

Bronx-Whitestone Bridge

Hugh L. Carey Tunnel

Queens Midtown

Car NYCSC E-ZPass Toll

Car Cash/Tolls by Mail/Non-NYCSC E-ZPass

 $5.54

$8

 $5.76

$8.50
Verrazano-Narrows Bridge (Toll collected in one direction only)
Car NYCSC E-ZPass Toll Non-Resident

Car Cash/Tolls by Mail/Non-NYCSC E-ZPass

Resident less than 3 trips per month

Resident 2 or more trips per month

 $11.08

$16

$6.60

$5.50 w. rebate

$6.24

$5.50 w/rebate

 $11.52

$17

$6.84

$5.74 w/ rebate

$6.48

$5.74 w/ rebate1
Henry Hudson Bridge
Car Tolls By Mail/Non-NYCSC E-ZPass $5.50 $6
Car NYCSC E-ZPass Toll $2.54 $2.64
Marine Parkway-Gil Hodges Memorial Bridge

Cross Bay Veterans Memorial Bridge
Car NYCSC E-ZPass Toll

Car Cash

Rockaway Resident E-ZPass Toll

 $2.08

$4

$1.36

 $2.16

$4.25

$1.41

1 The amount of the MTA’s Staten Island Resident (SIR) rebate program at the VNB is determined by New York State. With subsidy from State held constant, MTA anticipates the effective SIR toll to be $5.74.

 More info Here: www.mta.info
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All you need to Know to Rent a Limousine in New York

Renting a limousine can be a daunting task, especially in New York.  There are many different companies vying for your business, and many different models, prices, and availability. Today we will talk about different tips on renting the right one for you. Whether you are looking for a limo for your wedding, night out with friends, or even a ride to the airport we will show you how to shop around to get the best deals and reliable service in New York.

                First, you want to think about the event you are renting a limo for, how many people you need to fit in the limo and how much are you willing to spend.   There are many different cars available to choose from these days.  There are town cars, 6-12 passenger limousines, 14-20 people hummer limousines, and even a limousine bus that can hold 28-25 passengers!  Price is usually a big factor in the decision to rent a limo, but please do not let that be your only factor, service is very important. Make sure you ask around, and read online reviews before making any choice.

Sometimes, limo companies offer package deals if you book way in advance and if you have set hours. For a wedding, prom, or concert you will most likely know exactly how many hours you will need, and limo companies most likely will offer a better deal for that.  I can’t stress enough that you need to do your research before booking a limo. Call the company with a list of questions, like the date, times, how many people can fit in the car, ask how much money the company requires for a deposit, and make sure you get a signed contract will all details on it.

I hope this article has helped give you a starting point on renting a limousine in New York.  Make sure you call the company two to four days before your event to make sure everyone is on the same page on pick up times, who is your driver, and with any other questions you may have.

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

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If you have a penchant for architecture, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum should be right up your alley. Although the regular admission might seem a little steep at twenty-two dollars, it is well worth it. The Guggenheim Museum is an art powerhouse. It is nestled on the Upper Eastside of New York City and has a prize winning collection of modern and contemporary art.

The Guggenheim got its start because of Mr. Solomon R. Guggenheim and Hilla Rebay. Mr. Guggenheim had a collection of nonobjective artwork that continued to grow and Hilla Rebay nurtured his love for artwork. Eventually this collection grew so large; Mr. Guggenheim decided to start a museum. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum was completed in the year 1959, but it underwent several renovations in the 1990’s and in the early 2000’s. The Guggenheim was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, a famous and celebrated architect and is considered an architectural masterpiece. This museum was commissioned by the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation and serves as a beacon for contemporary and non-objective art. Within its walls, you can see all sorts of mediums and techniques. From paintings to sculptures to drawings, the Guggenheim showcases it all.

The Guggenheim remains current partly because of its contribution to society. It is regarded as the most impressive modern day art collection on the planet. The art housed within it is timeless. The Guggenheim is internationally renowned and held in high esteem by all artistic communities. Works that are housed within the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum are of a very high caliber. Today artists are thrilled to be included, but in the beginning there were doubts. Some artists did not want their pieces showcased within the Guggenheim because of the odd architecture. They were afraid that their works would be diminished by Mr. Lloyd Wright’s unique and interesting design. Although the weird layout of the Guggenheim put off some, others were intrigued. Eventually artists overcame the Guggenheim’s off kilter design, and today admittance is highly competitive. Only the best are considered.

Although the Guggenheim is decades old, it remains culturally relevant today. No matter where you go or what you choose to watch, you can’t escape the Guggenheim. It has a profound effect on the art world. This is especially true in New York. It is immersed New York’s art culture and it has also invaded our mainstream media. There have been several references to the illustrious Guggenheim for years in our pop culture. The most famous example of this is Men in Black. This movie was extremely popular and was seen by hundreds of millions of viewers. The Guggenheim was also used in Mr. Popper’s Penguins, Bye Bye Birdie and Ugly Betty.

For all you modern art fanatics, the Guggenheim is the place to be. Come check it out. You’ll be glad you did.

By Melissa Cooke

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring Grand Central Terminal, Main Concourse

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When it comes to traveling, few methods are safer than trains. Traveling by train is elegant and refined.  It says that I can travel at my leisure and nothing or no one will rush me. When it comes to train stations, none can compare to the remarkably glorious Grand Central Terminal. New York’s Grand Central Terminal also called Grand Central Station was first opened in 1913.  2013 is a very special year for the Grand Central Terminal because this year it turns 100.  Happy Centennial Grand Central Station! New York’s Grand Central Terminal is home to the world’s largest train station and the Main Concourse is its epicenter. Who says bigger isn’t better? When it comes to Grand Central Terminal, the Main Concourse is the place to be. The Main Concourse is the center of all the action. Everyday thousands converge, explore and travel throughout its massive corridors.

Historic Tour

In this day and age, knowledge is power and few lessons are free. One shining exception is the historic tours of Grand Central Terminal. Get your geek on and learn all about Grand Central Terminal’s creation and major events. By going on this tour, you will hear about all the effort it took to get it built and sustained. You’ll learn to appreciate a commodity that thousands take advantage of everyday. Go on and learn something new, just be sure to thank your knowledgeable tour guide.

Some Amazing Art

For people who long to witness artistic perfection, they should look no further than Grand Central Terminal, Main Concourse.  There are several different mediums to look at. The two most famous are the giant clock, that is reported to be worth from 10-20 million dollars, and some famous statues. There are three legendary statues including a Minerva, Hercules and Mercy which were created by an eminent French sculptor Jules-Felix Coutan. When this trio was unveiled, it was the largest sculptural group on Earth. This sculptural group is highly acclaimed even to this day. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to see a trio of masterpieces, go visit Grand Central Terminal, Main Concourse.

Food and Fun

For most travelers, a location is not viable without food. Grand Central Station does not disappoint. It has a plethora of kiosks to choose from. Whether you crave a little Italian or a good ole American sub, Grand Central Terminal, Main Concourse has you covered.  There are hundreds of venues to choose from and all of them serve amazing high quality food. If you are looking for food, don’t steer to the west though or you will be sorely disappointed. All the food venues are located on the East side of the Grand Central Terminal, Main Concourse.

Grand Central Terminal is an important and beloved attraction of New York City. Don’t miss out on all the fun. Go see it!

By Melissa Cooke

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Flash Forward Friday (March 15, 2013- March 21, 2013)

Hello fellow New Yorkers and welcome newcomers. New York City always has something going on and this week is no exception. If you are looking for something to do, check out this week’s list of activities. We have entertainment for every taste.

Friday March 15th                             Asia Week

This week long event lasts from March 15th to March 23rd. During this week New York shows off its Asian flair. Many museums and art galleries will be showing off their Eastern sensibilities. Prices will vary by venue so there is something for every budget. If you want to see fine art at museums or galleries or dine on Asian delicacies at local restaurants, this week is for you.

Saturday March 16th                       Saint Patrick’s Day Parade

It’s time to bust out that old “kiss me because I’m Irish” shirt. This is the week of Saint Patrick’s Day.  If your Irish heart is smiling, go visit the famous Saint Patrick’s Day parade. Whether you’re searching for the perfect green beer or bagel you’re sure to enjoy the festivities. This famous parade will last from approximately 11 a.m. to 4 p. m. Don’t forget to wear some green or you might leave the festivities feeling sore. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Sunday March 17th                          Kinky Boots

If you’re looking for an unconventional musical, check out Cyndi Lauper’s Kinky Boots. This quirky musical is about a struggling shoe factory and a sassy but lovable drag queen. The story line is touching and the music is breathtaking which makes this musical a win-win. How’s that for entertainment?

Monday March 18th                        Savages

For all you party animals that just want to let loose, Savages is your solution. This club has a wild and energetic atmosphere, amazing bands and cheap drinks with the average drink costing a measly four dollars. Go ahead get your party on, just don’t forget your Aspirin in the morning.

Tuesday March 19th                        Dance Brazil

This exotic dance performance takes place from March 19th to March 24th. Go watch this cultural fusion of African, Brazilian and capoeira dance styles set to a driving African beat. Feel the excitement in this hour and a half long performance.  This show is only available for a limited amount of time so hurry and go see it.

Wednesday March 20th                  Cirque Du Soleil

Cirque Du Soliel is part circus and part street performance but it is all fun. Visit this once in a lifetime performance and prepare to be amazed. This activity is great for families so bring your kids.

Thursday March 21st                       Architectural Digest Home Design

Are you a HGTV fan or are you looking to do a little updating? If so this is the event for you. This massive home design will showcase models from over 400 retailers. They will have chef demonstrations and consultations with designers. Don’t miss this event. New York has a lot of activities this week, go visit them!

By Melissa Cooke

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring Times Square

Although there are many interesting things to see in New York, New York, one attraction stands far above the competition. Whether you want to see the ball drop on New Year’s Eve, catch the latest rendition of the Phantom of the Opera, or are just looking for the perfect pair of jeans, you can find what you are looking for in Times Square. It is at the center of all the action in New York City.  No other New York attraction can compete with its celestial energy.

Times Square is the soul of New York and is a vibrant and life-filled intersection where everything and every culture collide. New York’s Times Square is a sprawling junction, a bustling intersection that is filled with tons of people and a variety of things to experience, but one of the most exciting things to do there, is people watch. One quick glance around tells the exciting nature of what it means to be American. Nothing is bland in Times Square and there is always plenty to see. All sorts of unique cultures merge and mingle in harmony. Times Square is a mecca for tourists because no matter what culture you’re from, you will find something to relate to. You will also find something that will astound you, and the funny thing is, sometimes both things will be side by side. Go figure!

Tourists visit Times Square because it is home to many American icons including Broadway, newspapers, and famous television shows. It is also known world-wide for its plethora of food. When it comes to food, Times Square is really versatile. No matter what your tastes lean towards, there is a restaurant, food truck or food cart that will please your taste buds, as well as accommodate your wallet. Whether you’re a sophisticated critic that only deigns to eat at four star palaces or a blue collar brawler looking for the perfect slice of pizza, Times Square has what you need. Everything is more extravagant in Times Square including an Applebee’s franchise, which has a supersized location.

Times Square is also an excellent location to go shopping. There is no sales tax in New York City and travelers can take full advantage. Many superstores have their foundations in Times Square. Two prime examples are MAC makeup and the famous Department store Macy’s. Since New York is one of the fashion capitals of the world, tourists flock to get their shop on. No matter what you are looking for it can be found in Times Square. Each day millions flock to this world famous section of the Big Apple. Take advantage and look important in front of millions. Travel in style, you can even take a NY prom limo to your Times Square destination.

By Melissa Cooke

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Flash Forward Friday (March 8, 2013- March 14, 2013)

Friday March 8, 2012

Armory Arts Week 

Ticket Prices:  General Admission: $30, Students:  $10, Groups of 10 and over: $14, 4 Day Show: $60 and The Armory Show Pass: $40

Armory Arts Week welcomes visitors from around the world.  The Show partners with New York City and Company to create and hand out more than 40,000 maps that have schedules of the events.  These maps are available at certain venues and tourist kiosks.  The Armory Arts Week is a celebration of the arts communities.  They showcase a specific neighborhood arts scene every night combined with specific events.  Past events have included art tours, artist discussions, parties and museum specials. http://www.armoryartsweek.com/armoryarts/index.cfm/home/

Saturday March 8, 2013

Sesame Street Live:  Elmo’s Healthy Heroes

Ticket Prices: $30

Who doesn’t love Elmo?  At any age, you just don’t outgrow Sesame Street.  Sesame Street Live: Elmo’s Healthy Heroes is about the tale of Super Grover not being so cool anymore.  He has suddenly lost his coolness.  So now Sesame Street needs a new super hero.  But just who will come to the rescue.  Have no fear because Elmo and his team of Healthy Heroes save the day.  Elmo and the team do a great job of exploring fitness, nutrition, sleep, energy and hygiene. http://jennaglatzer.blogspot.com/2010/09/review-elmos-healthy-heroes.html

Sunday March 10, 2013

New York Rangers VS. Edmonton Oilers

Tickets:  $85

MadisonSquareGarden is the place to be on Sunday to watch the New York Rangers wreck havoc on the Edmonton Oilers.  For 85 seasons, The New York Rangers have been a fan favorite in the history of the sport.  They have played MadisonSquareGarden which is the World’s Most Famous Arena.  They have built their reputation upon passion, tradition and pride. http://rangers.nhl.com/

Monday March 11, 2013

Shout Out Louds

Ticket Prices:  Starting at $34

Shout Out Louds are an indie pop band from Sweden.  They are playing Monday at the Music Hall of Williamsburg.  The music hall is located in Brooklyn at 66 North 6th Street.  Some of their singles include “Shut Your Eyes’ “Walls” and “Illusions.”  They are performing one night only at 8:00 PM and this is a band you don’t want to miss. http://www.shoutoutlouds.com/indexgamla.html

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

The Importance Of Tying Your Own Shoes

Tickets:  Free

The Importance of Tying Your Own Shoes is being held at the New York Public Library at the Mid-Manhattan Branch on 455 Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street.  It is presented by the ReelAbilities NY Disabilities Film Festival.  The film centers on a man who is completely self-centered.  He gets a job at a theater group for disabled people.  This was just a paycheck for the man until he discovers a life-changing lesson. http://www.sfinternational.se/film/the-importance-of-tying-your-own-shoes

Wednesday March 13, 2013

Metropolitan Opera:  Don Carlo

Ticket Prices:  Start at $32

Don Carlos can be seen at the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center.  Don Carlos is a five act grand opera, and at its full length, is comprised of four hours of music. It is considered Verdi’s longest opera.  The storyline is about the life of the Prince of Asturias, Carlos and tells the conflicts that he deals with in his life.

Thursday March 14, 2013 

Unwind at Symphony Space, Free Music Thursday

Tickets:  Free

Symphony Space is located at 2537 Broadway.  Free music Thursday is offered every Thursday with no cover charge.  http://www.unwinednyc.com/

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring New York City High Line

The New York City High Line is a one mile long city park which was built on an elevated section of the New York Central Railroad.  It is located on the western side of Manhattan.  The former railroad tracks have been converted into a beautifully redesigned aerial greenway.  The park goes from Gansevoort Street, through Chelsea, by way of 30th Street and onto the West Side Yard, close to the Jacob Javitz Convention Center.  Gansevoort Street is located just three blocks from West 14th Street, also known as the Meatpacking District.

This stunning and newly constructed park was designed by the architectural firm of James Corner Field Operations and architects Diller Scofidio and Renfro.  The designing of the plants was the responsibility of Piet Oudolf from the Netherlands.  Backers of the HighLinePark projects include Diane von Furstenberg along with her husband and children and hotel developer, Andre Balazs.

There are nine entrances into the park and four of those entrances are handicap accessible.  The park is open everyday of the week from 7:30 in the morning until 11:00 in the evening.  There are rules associated with the park, like everything else in life.  Most of the rules are pretty common sense like no walking on the plants, no bikes, no drinking and no littering.

The New York City High Line has attracted a lot in the pop culture scene.  In the 2007 smash hit “I Am Legend,” some of the scenes in the movie were filmed below the High Line as well as in the Meatpacking District.  In 2012, there was an episode of The Simpsons called “Moonshine River” where the family takes a trip to New York City.  Bart and an old girlfriend had taken an outing on the High Line.

The High Line features food vendors who sell products that are good to eat and good for the land as well.  As of 2012, there were nine vendors selling their food on the High Line.  Bark, for example, sells American classics that are created from ingredients that are not only local, but are of the highest quality.  Their signature Bark Burger is made from organic beef and seasonal vegetables, sure to be a delicious bite.  L’Arte Del Gelato, also in the park, was created almost a decade ago and makes gelati and sorbetti with first class ingredients.  They use milk that comes from Battenkill Valley Creamery in Salem, New York.  Melt Bakery sells delicious ice cream sandwiches, also made from local ingredients.  Their signature “Lovelet” sandwich is created from red velvet cakes with cream cheese ice cream, not friendly in calories, but very friendly in taste.

The spring and summer months will undoubtedly bring thousands of city residents and tourists to the High Line. Will you be one of them?

By Deana Clark

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(FlashForward Friday) Mar 1, 2013 – Mar 7, 2013

Friday, March 1st, 2013

Bodies The Exhibition

Ticket Prices: Adult: $26.50; Senior (Over 60): $22.50; Child (4-12): $20.50; Child (0-3): Free

When trying to plan an educational family day while visiting New York, how about visiting the Bodies The Exhibition at South Street Seaport? The exhibit shows the complex systems of organs and tissues throughout our bodies and it gives the young and old a fascinating look into our bodies. This exhibit is a way of showing people human organs and tissues that only medical professionals have access to normally. Come out and enjoy this fun, creative, yet educational experience for the entire family!

The South Street Seaport is located in the historic area of the New York City borough of Manhattan. The location of the Seaport features some of the oldest architecture and also is the largest amount of restored early 19th century commercial buildings in the city. It was founded in 1967. www.bodiestheexhibition.com/newyork/

Saturday, March 2nd, 2013

Louis C.K.

Ticket Prices: From $97.00

If you want to feel like a rock star attending a show, ride in a new york prom limo. Louis C.K., the creator, star, producer, writer, director of the FX comedy series Louie, is coming to New York City Center for one night only! He is performing live to promote the release of his latest comedy film, Hilarious (2011). Don’t miss out on this one night event!

The location of this comedy event is the New York City Center which is located at 131 W. 55th between 6th and 7th Avenues in Manhattan, New York City. The theatre was built in 1923, and houses 2,753 seats on the main stage. This theatre is known as the performing home for several major dance companies as well as the Encores! www.louiscktour.com

Sunday, March 3rd, 2013

NY Knicks vs. Miami Heat

Ticket Prices: Start at $237.00

Are you ready for some basketball? If you’re a basketball fan, visiting Madison Square Garden would be a top historical stadium to visit. The game is at 1:00 PM. Come watch these two teams duel it out at the Garden. Labron James is coming to town!

Madison Square Garden is located between Seventh and Eighth Avenues from 31st to 33nd streets. This arena sits on top of Pennsylvania Station and is used for professional basketball, ice hockey, boxing, concerts, ice shows, circuses and more. An interesting fact is that Madison Square Garden is ranked as one of the most expensive stadium venues ever built.   www.newyorkknicks.ticketsnow.com

Monday, March 4th, 2013

Fossil Halls

Ticket Prices: Adults: $18.99; Children (2-12): $10.50; Senior/Student: $14.50; Free for Members

Another great exhibit that is both educational and fun is the Fossil Halls Exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History. The exhibit is considered one of the premier attractions in New York City. Fossil Halls is home to nearly one million specimens, which is the world’s largest collection of vertebrate fossils. This exhibit is a permanent exhibit, so it will be there to visit for years and generations to come!

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world. Located on the upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, it Is home to over 130 million specimen as well as exhibition halls, research laboratories, and its renowned library.   www.amnh.org/exhibitions/permanent-exhibitions/fossil-halls

Tuesday, March 5th, 2013

Harry Potter: The Exhibition

Ticket Prices: Varies by event

Harry Potter is coming to town! Come one come all to the event you have been waiting for, the Harry Potter Exhibition! In this exhibit, you get to experience Harry Potter films to the fullest by walking through dramatic displays inspired by the films’ sets. This exhibit is sure to impress Harry Potter fans of all generations.

The Discovery Times Square Exposition, located at 22 West 44th Street in New York City specializes in traveling exhibitions. The building, opened June 24, 2009, had a main goal which was “to create a home for traveling exhibitions that local museums might find too large, too expensive, too nondisciplinary or too commercial for their nonprofit attention.” www.discoverytsx.com

Wednesday, March 6th, 2013

Jersey Boys

Ticket Prices: From $67.00

One of the best parts about New York City is the entertainment, via shows. If kicking back, relaxing and enjoying a show are your cup of tea, come watch Jersey Boys at the August Wilson Theatre. Jersey Boys is a show about the Four Seasons and how they went from the wrong side of the tracks to becoming one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time.

The August Wilson Theatre was designed by architects C. Howard Crane and Kenneth Franzheim. Located at 245 W 52nd Street in New York City, the theatre opened as the Guild Theatre in 1925. It wasn’t until August Wilson’s death October 16, 2005, that the theatre was renamed in his honor.

Thursday, March 7th, 2013

Winter Stinky Cheese Festival

Ticket Prices: Varies

If you are a cheese lover, this is something you don’t want to miss. Experience over 20 different cheeses from nine of some of the city’s best eateries. The festival will kick off this weekend and continue until March 11th. For more information, visit http://tourdefrancenyc.com/

By Heather Wishart

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring Carnegie Hall

If you want to be treated like royalty for one night hop into a New York prom limo and catch a show at Carnegie Hall. Carnegie Hall is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in New York City. It was designed by architect William Burnet Tuthill and built by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in 1891. Carnegie Hall is considered to be one of the most prestigious venues in the world of classical and popular music and has its own artistic programming, development, and marketing departments all on site.

Carnegie Hall has many different theatres that put on a variety of shows, different from the main stage.

The Main Hall (Isaac Stern Auditorium/Ronald O. Perelman Stage)

The Main Hall’s five levels of seating seats 2,804 people. There is no bad seat in this theatre. The highest seat available, for those who love heights, is approximately 137 steps to the top balcony.  Being one of the most famous concert stages in the United States, most of all the popular musicians and classical musicians have performed there since 1891. The last time this hall has been renovated was 1986.

Zankel Hall

Zankel Hall, better known as the Recital Hall, was the first auditorium open to the public in April of 1891. It is quite a bit smaller than the Main Hall only, seating 599 people. It, like the Main Hall, was also renovated in 1896 and renamed Carnegie Lyceum. What is so interesting about this particular hall is its flexibility, in that it can be reconfigured into several different arrangements. Most recently, it opened in the space in September of 2003.

Weill Recital Hall

Weill Recital Hall, which is named for Sanford I Weill and his wife Joan, was originally called Chamber Music Hall. This hall is still being used since it opened in 1891. It seats 268 people and has gone through many name changes until 1986 when it finally became Weill Recital Hall.

Carnegie Hall Archives

Not only does Carnegie Hall offer different rooms for your musical pleasure, it offers space for behind the scenes work as well. The Rose Museum contains working spaces for everyone from performing artists to rehearse, all the way to the architects, playwrights, and painters who design and create the shows.

Carnegie Hall is one of the last large buildings in New York that is built of masonry in its entirety. It  is unique in that there is no steel frame. The exterior of the building has Roman bricks with details done in terracotta and brownstone.

What is most interesting, is that Carnegie Hall is named after the person who financed it and not the person who actually created it like most buildings that you hear of.

Located at 57th St. and Seventh Ave. in Manhattan, Carnegie Hall must be on your list of things to experience when visiting New York City.

By Heather Wishart