When we look at the bustling island of Manhattan in New York City today, it's difficult to imagine that beneath the concrete jungle, there existed a network of rivers and streams that were once an integral part of the landscape. The European settlers who arrived in the 17th century were amazed by the abundance of waterways that dotted the island, and the Native American inhabitants who had lived there for centuries knew just how to navigate them. Why the streams are hidden? However, over the last few centuries, much of these waterways have been buried or channeled underground, and very few remain as visible reminders of the island's hydrological past. In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into exploring the hidden streams of New York City. Discovering the history of the rivers and streams of Manhattan, learn how…

Central Park in New York City is a beloved oasis of greenery in the midst of towering skyscrapers. It is a place where visitors and locals alike come to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Yet, few people today are aware of the park's rich equestrian history, which lives on in the forgotten horse trails and pads that crisscross the park's landscape. As the city moved away from horse-drawn carriages and Hanson cabs, these horse trails were left behind, but they are still there for those who know where to look. Join us as we explore the history of horses in Manhattan and how its treatment led to the formation of the humane society and the ASPCA. We'll also give you some tips on how to discover these hidden gems and explore Central Park like a true horseback…

Imagine watching the intricacies of a fine Swiss watch, the gears and cogs meticulously turning and working together in perfect harmony, all while producing groundbreaking computations that laid the foundation of modern computing. Throughout the 18th century, clockmaking had become a renowned industry, demanding precision and ingenuity not previously seen in the engineering world. Babbage looked to the horizon and envisioned a machine capable of crunching numbers like never before. Decades later, his work would ripple through time and shake the very foundations upon which our modern world is built. Charles Babbage, also known as the ultimate brainiac, was a total genius! This dude was not only a mathematician but also a philosopher, inventor, and mechanical engineer. He's the one who actually came up with the whole idea of a digital programmable computer. Crazy, right? But before the idea could…

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes The theater has been an integral part of American culture for centuries. It has entertained millions, inspired them, and helped reflect the societal changes that made the nation what it is today. However, in the wake of the pandemic, regional theater companies nationwide have been struggling to survive. While the government has bailed out industries like the airline and restaurant industries, regional theaters have been left out in the cold. In this article, we will discuss the need for a government bailout for theater companies nationwide and how the implosion of theater in America will impact major cities' revenue. (The Public Theater. (2023, August 6). In Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Public_Theater) It's alarming for theaters everywhere. Theater companies across America are facing dire financial situations. They are getting hit hardest with production cancellations due to the pandemic and…

Yoko Ono is a revolutionary and groundbreaking artist whose influence will be felt for years to come. Yoko Ono's influence spans far beyond her controversial relationship with John Lennon. For decades, she has been an integral part of the art world and a driving force for change. Her works, ranging from performance art and film making to music composition and writing poetry, have inspired countless artists and activists. As we explore her most influential pieces, such as Cut Piece (1964), Grapefruit book (1964), Wish Tree (1996–present), and Refugee Boat (2019), we gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for her unique style and message. Yoko Ono continues to be a trailblazer and an inspiration to this day. Yoko Ono's involvement with Fluxus played an important role in revolutionizing the art world. Fluxus was a loose, international network of artists that sought…

For centuries, plays have been a form of art that reflects society's struggles, ideas, and beliefs. They have served as a platform to voice concerns, challenge authority, and inspire change. Some of the most celebrated playwrights of all time, including William Shakespeare, August Wilson, and Arthur Miller, have written plays that have stood the test of time. Despite the rise of the musical genre in recent years, plays are still essential to the theater industry. In this blog post, we will explore why plays are more important than musicals. Artistic Integrity As artists, playwrights have more artistic freedom than musical composers and lyricists. They can delve into complex themes and create nuanced characters that are thought-provoking and relatable. They have the liberty to write plays that are relevant to contemporary times while still staying true to their artistic vision. Musicals,…

Unleashing Felix: The Mindful Dog Taking the World by Storm Calling all dog lovers and seekers of wisdom! Get ready for the ultimate life lessons from the one and only Felix, the street-smart hero of our captivating video series, Masterclass with Felix. Vanderpump Dogs to the rescue Imagine a tale straight out of a Hollywood movie - a dog in need, rescued from the streets of Tecate, Mexico, by none other than the incredible Lisa Vanderpump and her passionate rescue team. Felix's journey took a thrilling turn when he found himself in the lap of luxury at Vanderpump Dogs, a haven for pampered pets in Los Angeles. But little did he know, his true purpose was yet to unfold. Love at first sight By some twist of fate, my husband David and I stumbled upon Vanderpump Dogs during a lunch…

Hello there, fellow art enthusiasts! Have you ever approached a museum and had to stop before the ticket booth, wondering if it was worth spending money to get in? Well, I’m here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be this way. Yes, I’m advocating for free admission to all museums. I know, I know, “What about the costs of maintaining a museum?” you might ask. Fear not, dear reader, for I have a convincing argument for why museums should be accessible to everyone. Let's talk about art First things first, let's talk about art itself. Art is meant to be appreciated and enjoyed by all. It is a means of expression that transcends social status and economic means. It has the ability to connect people from different cultures and backgrounds, and to spark curiosity and imagination. Therefore, why…

Dutchess County in New York is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Among the many delights that this region offers, the wildflowers bring a distinct charm to the lush landscapes. Native to the area, these wildflowers are capable of painting the fields with an explosion of color and texture, making the landscape an absolute delight for nature lovers, artists, and photographers. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the wildflowers in Dutchess County, New York, their native species, and the best times of year to see them. Native Species Dutchess County boasts of having over 500 species of wildflowers. The most common species include wild Columbine, which is seen in abundance in the region. Blue and yellow Violets also grace the fields with their presence. Other native species include the Pink Ladyslipper, False Solomon Seal, Indian Tobacco,…