Final Multimedia Project! :(

For this semester’s final project, I decided to blend it together with another final project of mine. For my photography class, we had to pick one subject and explain it in 5 pictures. I decided it would be rather interesting to represent each burrow in a picture. I came up with an idea that would be just as, if not more interesting for my final project for my multimedia communications class. For this class, I am recording myself (with the assistance of some friends) in each borough, taking pictures and showing the venue of where I will be going to take that picture. And, of course, some subway entertainment along the way.

Queens was the first stop of course, because it’s the easiest. Finding something to photograph in Queens was probably the most difficult for me, because when I think of Queens, nothing pops into my head. When I walked off campus it hit me – all that I associate with this borough is public transportation. I saw the Q46 bus stop, and as simple and odd as it seems, that’s what Queens is to me.

Next was the Bronx. The name itself intimidated me – because all of my friends made it sound like it was the scariest place on Earth. Luckily the train went right to Yankee Stadium, which was my idea for that borough. The area was filled with harmless middle-aged tourists on a double decker bus, so it was nowhere as scary as it seemed.

Following that was Brooklyn. Although I didn’t physically enter the borough itself for the picture, I went to downtown Manhattan to a place called Seaport and had an amazing view of the sunset just over the Brooklyn Bridge. Although my inner tourist was coming out a little bit – flooding my instagram feed with panoramas of the bridge – all worries and second thoughts about moving so far away from home faded. I felt truly blessed to have such an amazing opportunity just a train ride away from me.

Times Square. What better way to represent the island of Manhattan? I had to go at night to capture the full effect of how beautiful that spot really was. It was difficult to do, since it is such a large, crowded place, but in the end I’m pretty proud of how it turned out.

Believe it or not, Staten Island was the easiest idea to come up with – but the longest to travel to. Taking two trains to the last stop was physically draining, but such an experience. When taking the Staten Island Ferry across the river, there is a view of the skyline that is totally unforgettable. This was, hands down, one of my favorite boroughs to shoot. That being said, this is a project that I am proud of and couldn’t be happier that I chose to do it. I’ll remember it for the rest of my life.

A summary of my trip can be seen below. Enjoy! :)

Here comes Christmas!

Christmas is coming! Get the rest of your holiday shopping done at the Union Square Holiday Market!  Until December 24^th, enjoy this European-style market with over 150 local and national vendors. You’ll find everything from hand-made jewelry and furniture to vintage maps of Brooklyn or Manhattan. Their hours are Monday through Friday 11AM to 8PM, Saturday 10AM to 8PM, and Sunday 11AM to 7PM. To get there, just take the F to Queens Blvd. and transfer to the Q to 14^th Street/Union Square. Don’t forget some cash – no cards accepted!

Didn’t get a chance to catch the tree lighting at Rockefeller Center? You’re in luck! On Tuesday, December 10^th, head over to the tree lighting in Madison Square Park! The 11^th annual tree lighting ceremony festivities kick off at 3:30PM, with the count down of the lighting beginning at 5PM. Don’t miss another chance to celebrate Christmas with hot chocolate, treats, and more! To get there, just take the F to Forest Hills and transfer to the R, getting off at 23^rd Street. Bring your camera!

Has anyone heard of MGMT? Known best as a ‘hipster’ style of music, MGMT is a relatively fresh band, only a few years old. On Friday, December 13^th (spooky) they will be performing at Barclays Center! Tickets are super cheap, ranging between $35 and $50. Doors open at 8PM, don’t be late!                                             

                                                                                              Picture provided by ticketmaster.com

Extra Credit Video!

How I spent my Thanksgiving break!

Bring it on, Christmas!

Holiday shopping season has began! That being said, what better place to go to than Bryant Park? That’s right - along with free ice-skating, they also have a variety of holiday shops and food set up! This winter wonderland features 125 boutique-style shops featuring clothing, jewelry, decorative goods, and even local foods! Their hours Monday through Friday are 11AM to 8PM, Saturdays are 10AM to 9PM, and Sundays 10AM to 6PM. To get there, just take the F train straight to 42^nd Street/Bryant Park!

                                                    

                                                                  Picture provided by Google Images

It’s Rockefeller Center time! That’s right, the tree has to be lit yet again this year – so if you’re out of town, don’t miss it! Join in the tens of thousands that will be crowding the sidewalks on Wednesday, December 4^th to witness one of the most popular and iconic events of the Christmas season not only in New York City, but across the globe. To get there, just take the F train to 47-50 Streets/Rockefeller Center. The event is from 7PM to 9PM, but you might want to be a little early to get a  good spot. Don’t forget to dress warm!

Sick of the Bryant Park scene? Not a problem! If you’re looking for a change of pace during your hunt for the perfect Christmas gift, head over to Columbus Circle for their Holiday Market! On Tuesday, December 3^rd, stop by and navigate your way through more than 100 different shops and vendors featuring handmade clothes, food, and much more! It opens on December 3^rd through December 24^th, and hours are from 10AM to 8PM Monday through Saturday, and 10AM to 7PM on Sundays. To get there, take the E to 7^th Ave/53^rd Street and transfer to the B train right to 59^th Street/Columbus Circle. Don’t forget some cash!

My Video Commercial!

This is my video commercial advertising Wanelo!

Parade Time!

                                                       Pictures provided by timeout.com
Turkey Day has arrived! Before the annual parade begins, get yourself pumped up by watching preparations take place for the big day! On Wednesday, November 27^th, head over to West 79^th Street and Columbus Ave. to see the famous parade balloon inflation! This event may sound boring, but it has started to become just as popular as the parade itself! From 3PM to 10PM, watch characters such as the Sonic Hedgehog or Buzz Lightyear inflate to life as they prepare to make their grand appearance on Thanksgiving Day. To get there, just hop on the E to 7^th Ave./53^rd Street, change to the B to 59^th Street/Columbus Circle, and finally get on the 1 train to your destination, which is 79^th Street/Broadway. A bit of a commute, but very much worth it!

Once you’ve gone to the balloon inflating and prepped for the excitement of what the parade will hold, it’s time to go to the actual parade itself! For its 87^th year, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade has been known as the official kick-off of the holiday season! This Emmy Award winning tradition has been televised every year with more than 50 million viewers, tuning in to see giant floating characters and one-of-a-kind floats featuring performances from various celebrities. This year, the performance lineup features Ariana Grande, Austin Mahone, Fall Out Boy, the Goo Goo Dolls, Gavin DeGraw, and more! The parade kicks off at 77^th Street and Central Park West, down Central Park West to Columbus Circle, over to Central Park South and 6^th Ave., all the way over to the Macy’s in Herald Square. If you would like to go watch the kick off, follow the same subway directions as above, pertaining to the balloon inflation event. If you’re staying on campus and miss it, you’ll definitely be sorry!

Jump into Winter!

The winter season has begun! From Sunday, November 17^th all the way until March 3^rd, don’t head over to Central Park…head to Bryant Park and take advantage of their ice rink! Admission is free to skate, but don’t go empty handed; skate rentals are $14, or simply bring your own! To get there, hop on the F train straight to 42^nd Street/Bryant Park. Don’t forget your mittens!         Picture provided by Google Images

‘Yeezus’ is in the house! You heard me; Kanye West is back in town and waiting for you to come see him at Barclays Center! Tuesday, November 19^th and Wednesday, November 20^th Mr. West takes the stage with Kendrick Lamar starting at 7:30PM sharp. Tickets are ranging from mid-100s and up, so get online before they’re gone completely!

The Chelsea Market is back! But this time, it’s a store within it that might peak your interest. Artists and Fleas is a market with locations in both the Brooklyn and Chelsea Market areas, selling unique hand-made jewelry, art, clothing, and much more. I had an opportunity to check out the location in Williamsburg, which is only open on weekends, and was amazed. Everything is hand made by the artist themselves, who is right there willing to talk with you, and it’s all for a reasonable price. Who can beat that? The Chelsea Market location is open daily from 10AM to 7PM.; just take the E to 8^th Ave. and transfer to any of the 1, 2, or 3 trains. Bring some cash, credit cards not accepted!

GAP Fitness

This is my audio commercial for Gals and Pals Fitness. Check it out!

Novem-buurrrr

What better way to spend a chilly weekend than inside at the Chelsea Market? This enclosed space offers a wide variety of urban food and shopping right in the Chelsea neighborhood of mid-to-lower Manhattan. The best news? They’re open all week – not just on weekends! Monday through Saturday their hours are from 7AM to 9PM, and Sunday is from 8AM to 8PM. The address is 75 9th Avenue, New York, NY 10011 between 15th and 16th Streets. To get there, just take the E to 14^th Street. Any other questions or concerns, just visit their website above! Picture provided by google images

Calling all American Horror Story and wrestling fans: big news! The hit TV show star Jessica Lange and WWE legend Mike Tyson will be in town this week! Monday, November 11^th at 6PM, Jessica Lange will be at the Barnes and Noble at 97 Warren Street signing her new children’s book It’s About a Little Bird. To get there, just take the E to Queens Plaza, transfer to the R to Times Square, then at Times Square hop on any 1, 2, or 3 train to Chambers Street/West Broadway and walk a few blocks. Mike Tyson, however will be signing his book Undisputed Truth at the Barnes and Noble on 555 Fifth Avenue on Wednesday, November 13^th, at 12:30PM. To get there, just take the F right to 42^nd Street Bryant Park, and walk a few blocks. If you get a hug from him, make sure you keep your ear away from his mouth!

Speaking of Bryant Park, head over on Saturday, November 16^th for the Bryant Park Block Party! Beginning at 10AM, have an exciting afternoon filled with food, vendors, and more! Once again, just take the F straight to 42^nd Street Bryant Park. Until next time, enjoy!

My video interview with Robin!

Above is my interview on video with fellow classmate Robin Shandroff. Check it out!

Enjoy Fall

Now that Halloween is over, take time to enjoy the fall season before we get trampled with the cold, white, fluffy stuff – snow! On Saturday, November 9^th, head over to the Union Square Autumn Fair located on 6^th Ave. between 34^th and 42^nd Streets. From 10 AM to 6 PM, enjoy everything from seasonal food favorites to unique vendors. Just hop on an F train right to 42^nd Street Bryant Park. Admission is free!

 JT is back! That’s right, Justin Timberlake is back in town on Wednesday, November 6^th at the Barclay’s Center in Brooklyn (the same place where Miley ‘twerked’)!  On his world tour entitled “The 20/20 Experience”, his next stop is right in our very own city of New York! Tickets are between $150 and $200, and going quickly – so make sure you get online as soon as possible! He will be waiting for you ;)

                                                                                   Picture provided by Google Images

After visiting this place, I knew I had to blog about it. MoMA PS1 is one of the coolest museums around, especially for young students! Located in Long Island City, MoMA PS1 is sort of a modern-day museum featuring interesting exhibits that won’t put you to sleep – and are sometimes interactive! My favorite exhibit, pictured to the right, features a bunch of stuffed animals in a ball hanging from the ceiling (weird, but keeps you thinking!). Hours are from 12PM to 6PM, and admission for students is only $5; make sure you bring your Storm Card! To get there hop on an E train, transfer at Court Square to the 7, and get off at Queensboro Plaza. I know it may sound weird, but I promise you it won’t be boring!

Edited Clip!

My edited interview with Robin Shandroff.

Hallow - eeek!

Looking to get a little scared this week? Blood Manor is the place to be. Live interaction, themed rooms, and of course – blood! Challenge yourself to go through chambers such as “Vestibule of the Undead” or “Banquet of Torture”...if you dare. Located at 163 Varick Street in Soho, all you have to do is hop on an E train and get off at Spring Street. Tickets range between $30 and $35, but lines are rumored to be long - so make sure you stop by their website to order online!

On a less scary note, the ginger is back in town! You guessed it – the British goon who sometimes writes songs for One Direction and brings girls to tears is playing Madison Square Garden October 29^th and November 1^st! Still don’t know who I’m referring to? Ed Sheeran of course! He’s back all right, and tickets are still on sale! The concert begins at 8, so get online before it’s too late!

                                                                                          Picture provided by Google Images

Everyone loves a good Halloween movie, right? Well this Wednesday night, at 7:30 PM the AMC Theater on W 42^nd Street is showing the Michael Myers classic “Halloween”! I know what you’re all thinking – why go out and pay to watch it when you could just watch it in your room, it in the comfort of your own underwear? I’ll tell you why, because that’s no fun at all! Why not make a night of it and get in the spirit with your friends or significant other? Don’t be a party pooper, just hop on the E train right to 42^nd Street! 

Until next time, enjoy!

Interview

This week I sat down with a fellow classmate, Robin Shandroff.

Q: So I visited your blog, and saw the “Kickin’ It Wit E” post. How did it feel to watch your brother do his passion as you were doing yours?

A: It was really fulfilling. I was honored to help him promote his radio show while doing what I love to do at the same time.

Q: What exactly are you helping him advertise?

A: My brother, Eric, is on Brookedale Community College radio every Thursday at “90.5 HD3” on a show called Kickin’ It Wit E. For me to photograph him in action improves his flyers for better and helps him advertise as I get to improve my own photography.

Q: What do you think would help you improve in this field?

A: I definitely need to be more comfortable in my environment, because it is very difficult for me to get around compared to at home to take pictures of things.

Q: Who is your role model for this?

A: Tyra Banks because of America’s Next Top Model, and I was always intrigued by the photo shoots that she took. Also, my family friend Jordan has been taking photography for 4 years and I’ve always admired her and her work.

Spooktober in NYC

Who’s excited for Halloween?!  As the spooky holiday grows near, festivities are at an all-time high - so join in on the fun! On Saturday, October 26^th, head to the Haunted Highline Halloween! Not familiar with it? The Highline is a 1-mile-long elevated section of the former New York Central Railroad that has been renovated into a beautiful park on the lower west side of Manhattan. Sound intriguing? Then head over for an afternoon of art, music, and haunted tunnels! Admission is free, and to get there just get on the E train to 23^rd Street. Festivities begin at 11 AM and go until 3 PM, don’t forget your costume!

Real-life-Clue, anyone? On October 25^th and 26^th, at Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden, experience a chilling murder mystery while searching for clues and working together to reveal suspects. Admission for students is $7, and the games begin at 6:30 PM. To get there, just take the E or F train to Forest Hills, and transfer to the R to get to 59^th Street. The address is 421 E 61^st Street. Time to get your sleuthing on!

                                                                                        Photo provided by Google Images

Love everything about fall festivities, but not so much Halloween? Perfect! Head over to the Lexington Avenue Fall Festival between 42^nd and 57^th Streets on October 26th! Food, music, shopping – what more could you ask for? Just hop on an F train to 42^nd street. Festivities start at 10 AM!     

October 13th through October 19th

Halloween is coming! Don’t miss out on this exciting, year-round event. Times Scare, located between 42^nd and 43^rd Street, is an all-year haunted house! It includes live-action roll play and a variety of houses to go into! They recommend ages 12 and up (which shouldn’t be a problem for us college kids) and admission is around $27. To get there, just hop on an A, C, or E train right to Times Square 42^nd Street. Any other questions? Visit their website!

Excited to sleep in on Monday, but haven’t really questioned why classes aren’t in session? That’s right, there’s a reason why you don’t have to wake up for that 7:30 statistics class, Columbus Day! And what better way to celebrate that day off than by heading to 5^th Ave. for the Columbus Day Parade! Show off your inner Italian by enjoying bands, floats, and of course…food! You don’t have to pay to go, and to get there just hop on the F train to Forest Hills and transfer to the R to get off at 5th Ave./59th Street. Festivities kick off at 11:30 (in the morning, not at night). For more information, visit their website!

Looking to break out your inner child? Then you might want to head over to Williamsburg for the Crest Arts Pumpkin Carving Contest on Saturday, October 19^th! If you’re on the fence about creatively and competitively carving pumpkins, then feel free to go and watch, and even vote for your favorite pumpkin! Admission and voting are both free of course. To get there, get on the E train to Court Square and transfer to the G train to Metropolitan Ave., and the address is 558 Metropolitan Ave. If you have any questions, visit their website! Picture provided by cresthardwareartshow.com

October 6th through October 13th

Welcome back! I'm glad you came back to see what this week has in store. Every weekend until October 27^th, head over to Long Island City for their flea market! Enjoy food, vintage finds, and a beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline. They’re open from 10 AM to 6 PM, rain or shine. To get there by subway, take the E train to Court Square/23^rd Street and hop on the G (Brooklyn-Queens Crosstown), and you’ll want to get off at 21^st Street. For more information, visit their flea market!

Is anyone familiar with the New Zealand band The Naked and Famous? They would most likely fall under the ‘hipster’ category, and are an entertaining mix of alternative rock and electropop. Give them a try at their YouTube page or visit their website. Anywho, they’re playing a concert at Terminal 5 on both Thursday the 10^th and Friday the 11^th, but tickets might be easier to find for Friday’s show. The venue address is 610 W 56th St., between 11th and 12th Avenues. Tickets are going fast, so don’t wait until the last minute!

                                                        Picture provided by Google Images

Halloween is right around the corner, so why not live up to the holiday spirit and visit a haunted house! In fact, why not try Blackout Haunted House, located in the Vortex Theater at 164 Eleventh Ave. in Manhattan. This haunted house is unlike any other, for they interact with you and make you a part of their show. You must be 18 or older, and for more information visit their spooky website. To get there by subway, you’re going to want to take the F train to 34^th St-Herald Sq. and hop on the N, and arrive at 28^th Street. Tickets can range between $40 and $60, so plan accordingly. Doors open at 7 PM!

~Until next week…enjoy!

September 29th through October 6th

It's me again! If you're back you must be looking for something to do, and I'm happy to help you out. Every weekend until November 24th, be sure to stop in Brooklyn and take a look at the Brooklyn Flea Market! Admission is free of course - and their hours are from 10 AM to 5 PM. On Saturdays they are located at Fort Greene Flea on Lafayette Ave., and on Sundays they switch over to the Williamsburg waterfront. For more information on vendors and how to get there, visit their website! 

Don't worry; I'm not finished yet. Is everyone familiar with the "Long Island Medium"? On Tuesday, October 1^st, Theresa Caputo will be signing copies of her new book “There’s More to Life Than This” at the Barnes and Noble on 33 East 17^th Street at 12:15 PM. If you’re interested in stopping by, maybe she’ll even do a spiritual reading for you! 

Okay so, has anyone heard of the up-and-coming band called Boyce Avenue? Boyce Avenue not only writes their own music, but also does amazing covers of already popular songs. Long story short, they have a concert Thursday, October 3rd in Webster Hall located on 125 E 11th Street. Tickets are going quickly - so if you're thinking of going, get on a tickets site immediately! Prices are in the mid-100s. If you aren't familiar with them, please check out their YouTube website above to see if you're interested! 

If you’re looking for a little more weekend fun to escape the school week, have no fear. Who doesn’t love fall, right? Next Saturday, October 5^th until Sunday the 6^th, Queens County Farm Museum is having a “Kickoff to Fall” with free admission, fresh cider, and hayrides! Who can resist? It’s located in Floral Park at 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy. For more information visit their website above! That’s all I’ve got this week, so until next time - enjoy!

*If you’re looking for a good subway app, try downloading NYC Subway, it’s free!*

New York in Pictures

"Check Mate"

Two young boys enjoy a chess match in Central Park.

"Suite Life"

The lovely ladies of suite 205 enjoy getting ready for a night in the city.

"Bladin'"

A local New Yorker earns a little money on the side performing in Central Park.

"Mystery Building"

Can you guess which building this is yet?

"You're Fired!"

Surprise! Trump Tower shines bright and stands tall on a beautiful sunny day.

"Selfie Nation"

Your next celebrity apprentice, ladies and gentlemen.

Welcome!

Hello, everyone! My name is Charlotte, and you've successfully reached the best blog on the internet. More about that later; first, let me tell you a little bit about myself. I was born and raised upstate in Buffalo (don't listen to what people say, it's not that cold!), and wouldn't have wanted it any other way. I have a 12-year-old sister who grinds my gears more often than not, but what can ya do besides learn to embrace it. My mom works for a college back home called D'Youville College, which is why I can afford to go to this beautiful school, and my dad works in the Erie County Clerk's office (basically, he just handles big checks). I've gone from working 5 days a week every week at a job I love, where I met my current boyfriend, to only working on long breaks when I return home. I graduated from an all-girls catholic high school- which were no doubt the best four years of my life that I wouldn't trade for the world! I am majoring in Photojournalism, because I absolutely love taking pictures and fooling around with my camera. I love live music, and had the opportunity to attend my favorite concerts over the summer such as the Goo Goo Dolls (who happen to be Buffalo natives..just saying), John Mayer, and my inner tween heartthrobs One Direction. This topic brings me to what I'd like to blog about! If you're into live music and free-admission events as much as I am, then we're going to get along great. Every weekend, I'm going to be giving an update on what's going on for the upcoming week, such as concerts around the city, flea markets and festivals, along with times and admission fees (if there are any). Stay tuned- I hope you enjoy! :)