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Council Member Abreu, Coalition: FY25 Budget Restores Community Composting Funding

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“New Yorkers spoke—and the City Council listened. With everything at stake, our city’s vibrant composting community stopped at nothing to fight back against the proposed mayoral budget cuts. They showed up in droves at rallies and press conferences. They testified at every committee hearing. They called their district offices. They signed petitions, wrote letters, and…

The post Council Member Abreu, Coalition: FY25 Budget Restores Community Composting Funding appeared first on Harlem World Magazine.

* This article was originally published here

Nostalgic Retailer, Limited Too, Is Returning After A 15-Year Hiatus

You loved it, you wore it everyday, and you cried when it closed—but now, it’s making a comeback! Popular tween retailer from the 90s and early 2000s, Limited Too, has announced their official re-launch after a 15-year hiatus.

The iconic brand will return on Friday, July 12th with a highly-anticipated first drop. The new generation of Limited Too shoppers will be able to explore the new collection in Kohl’s and online. Talk about right in time for back to school shopping!

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When they first resurfaced on Instagram this June, fans we’re hesitant to believe it was true. However, Limited Too wrote in their caption “Here to tell you this is real,” assuring us all that no, this is not a drill.

Clothing rack of new Limited Too drop
Startraks Photo / Jesse Bauer

Their website is already up and running if you want to take a peek. The brand promises to carry on its fashion legacy with a “celebration of the past and an inspiration for the present.”

To celebrate the re-launch, Limited Too hosted a rooftop party in NYC with guests like Kate Steinberg and Rachel Fuda. Attendees got a first look at the brand’s trendy new items, while grabbing a sweet treat from the build-your-own candy bar and a visit to the embroidery station.

Design Manager, Petra K, said “The goal of the relaunch is really to inspire girls — to inspire the next generation of who the Limited Too girl is. It was such a pop culture phenomenon. It was such an amazing time to shop as a little girl, come into our stores and have those special moments with your family shopping or finding your new outfit or getting a dress for a party or picking out a birthday present for a best friend. It’s really just about inspiring girls to hold each other’s hand and be good friends and celebrate how awesome it is to be a tween.”

The post Nostalgic Retailer, Limited Too, Is Returning After A 15-Year Hiatus appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

Tony Randel: Living in truth with pride while giving back

Tony Randel: Living in truth with pride while giving back
Tony Randel: Living in truth with pride while giving back
Tony Randel: Living in truth with pride while giving back

New Jersey resident and Long Island native Tony Randel lives a typical bachelor life. He stands 5 foot 10 inches, weighs 265 pounds, lifts weights and works out four times a week to keep up his muscular build, works as a relationship banker, wears suits, and enjoys traveling and socializing.

He’s also openly gay.

Living the life of a typical man in the city, Randel, like many gay men, does not exhibit the appearance or mannerisms of what most might perceive as the stereotypically gay man. He’s very honest about who he is.

Randel lives his life out and proud at 54, using his social media influence to foster an inclusive environment and also give back. While people often think of social media influencers as younger individuals, Randel started in middle age. More than 20,000 people follow his Instagram account, @randeltoney.

In an interview with the AmNews, Randel said LGBT Pride to him means simply being unashamed of who you are.

“This is me,” he said. “Pride means I chose not to be in the closet. I choose to live my life the way I feel most comfortable living it, and who I’m attracted to shouldn’t matter.”

However, living his life as an openly gay man wasn’t always the case for Randel. He said his journey has not been without some bumps along the way. His journey toward living in his truth began in college when he came to terms with his sexuality.

“When I was in school, I started to feel different,” he said. “I felt like I was in love with this one guy. We were always together and I had a big crush on him but he was straight and I had a girlfriend at the time. I never came on to him or anything like that.”

Randel said he came to the realization at that time that he was attracted to men and began to explore that when he moved out of parents’ house and into his own apartment at age 27.

“I wanted to better understand if it was something I liked or didn’t like,” he said.

It wasn’t until he read an article in The Source magazine about gay hip-hop culture where he saw a listing of gay clubs in New York that played hip-hop music. A club he’d previously attended that was mentioned in the article had a gay night he was unaware of. He attended and said the experience changed his life.

Tony Randel Credit: Contributed

“They were playing hip-hop and there were men in there dancing who looked like me,” he said. “It just blew my mind. At that moment I realized I might be gay.”

That night he met several people, including a few he’s been lifelong friends with. At this point, Randel considered himself bisexual. It was a relationship with a man that sealed the deal about his true identity.

“I was in love with this guy and we stayed together for three years,” he said. “I realized that I was a gay man.”

Upon realizing who he really was, a year later, he came out to his mother. He didn’t tell his now-deceased father until he was in his 40s.

“She asked me if I was gay,” he said. “I had a birthday party she attended and there were a lot of guys there. By that time she knew something was up. I was avoiding her for a long time because I didn’t want to lie to her. She asked me if I was gay and I said no, and told her I was bisexual. She started crying and I started crying. She said it was okay and told me I was grown and I needed to live my life. At first, she gave me little pushback, but after a while she was cool.”

Today, Randal juggles his career in banking with his life as a social media influencer and model. He decided to try it in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic after seeing Liam Neeson, who was 68 years old at the time, in a movie.

“It just clicked in my head. If this guy can be an action movie star at 68 years old, I can be a model at 50 years old,” he said. “Instagram was basic to me, so I started scrolling to see what other people were doing.”

At the advice of another influencer, Randel did a photo shoot in South Florida. He posted the photos on social media and started building his followers. He even got a brief modeling deal and also appeared on a gay dating reality show. Once Reels came out on Instagram, Randel started creating short videos of himself, and with every video, more followers came. He was soon able to profit from the popularity of his reels.

Tony Randel Credit: Contibuted

Because of his large build, Randel is popular in what is known as the bear community, a subculture of gay men who are plus-sized. He eventually received a pageant title as Mr. Fire Island Bear in 2022. Randel said the community is not diverse, limiting the spaces plus-sized Black can meet and socialize. He hosts a monthly party at a gay bar in Chelsea.

“I started it because I felt like there was something missing in the community,” he said. “Black men are part of the bear community. We should be seen.”

Along with providing a space for plus-sized Black men, Randel also incorporates community givebacks. Several of his parties are also charity and food drives where he collects donations from attendees and gives the proceeds to local non-profit organizations. His most popular event is a Thanksgiving food drive. Randel also organized a team for this year’s AIDS Walk.

In a world where many Black gay and bisexual men continue to live on the “down low” due to shame, Randel says that being your true self is the best way to live—but admits it’s not easy.

“People will try you and give you a certain attitude. The alternative is making up fake girlfriends and things like that,” he said. “I used to do that because I didn’t want to be out at work. You have to have a level of confidence to be out. It’s not easy for someone like me who is straight-presenting. I don’t knock anyone who’s in the closet, but I don’t like the down-low stuff.”

As far as what’s ahead for Randal, he plans to continue hosting his social events, giving back as much as he can, and continuing to grow his social media following to pursue his modeling career.

The post Tony Randel: Living in truth with pride while giving back appeared first on New York Amsterdam News.

* This article was originally published here

Creamline and Economy Candy collab on Shark Week milkshakes

Creamline and Economy Candy collab on Shark Week milkshakes

We don’t know about you, but we’d much rather have sharks in our shakes than our shores. (In defense of those sharp-toothed fish, we are hanging out in their house.) And to celebrate the return of that annual favorite Shark Week, Creamline will serve a shark-themed milkshake from Monday, July 8, through Sunday, July 14, in collaboration with the iconic Economy Candy

RECOMMENDED: When you’re craving a frosty treat to beat the heat, go for the best milkshakes in NYC

The latest candy-topped milkshake collaboration between Creamline—the farm-sourced restaurant operating in partnership with Upstate New York’s Ronnybrook Farm—and the legendary Lower East Side candy shop, the new Shark Week special will consist of a blue Ronnybrook Farm vanilla milkshake made with spirulina, topped with the restaurant’s signature organic whipped cream, gummy shark candies and a dripping red cherry.

And it’s not the only candy shake that Creamline will be adding to its menu this summer: the eatery also recently reintroduced a Pop Rocks milkshake, made with all-natural vanilla soft serve ice cream from Ronnybrook Farms that gets blended with Strawberry and Blue Ruzz Pop Rocks, topped with whipped cream and covered in even more of the colorful popping candy. 

Those festive summertime flavors join a regular milkshake roster that includes a “New York City Coffee Milkshake,” a “Catskill Provisions Honey Milkshake,” a “Chocolate Fudge Milkshake” and a “Two Cookies & Cream” variety (blended with both Oreos and Nilla wafers).

Earlier this year, Creamline announced that it would offer a special milkshake collaboration with Economy Candy every month of the year. Previous frosty collabs have included a Valentine’s Day-inspired “Chocolate Covered Strawberry Milkshake” topped with candy hearts; a green St. Patrick’s bev blended with Junior Mints and topped with a gold coin; and a Pride-ready “Rainbow Milkshake” dotted with freeze-dried Skittles. 

* This article was originally published here

Inflammation: Causes, Effects, And Natural Remedies

The #1 source in the world for all things Harlem.

Inflammation is a fascinating and complex topic. Many people experience it in some form, whether through acute injuries, chronic diseases, or everyday complaints. But what exactly lies behind these reactions in our bodies, and how can we address them naturally? What is Inflammation and Why Does it Occur? Inflammation is essentially the immune system’s response…

The post Inflammation: Causes, Effects, And Natural Remedies appeared first on Harlem World Magazine.

* This article was originally published here

Pulitzer Fountain: A Symbol of Abundance and Timeless Beauty

The Central Park Conservancy uses “ornament” to describe the Pulitzer Fountain. And indeed, the term is befitting because of the beauty of the Beaux-Arts masterpiece sitting in the Grand Army Plaza. The five-tiered basins, cascading waterfalls, and the bronze statue of Pomona, the Greek Goddess of abundance, bring an exciting combination of grandeur and tranquility. The fountain beckons the weary as an inviting place to escape the hustle and unending bustle of the city. In summer, the fountain’s explosion of lights and color is a sight to behold.

Background on the Pulitzer Fountain

Upon his death in 1911, Joseph Pulitzer, a newspaper publisher, left funds to construct a fountain in his memory. His chosen style was Beaux-Arts, incorporating classical Roman and Greek elements. The executors settled on designs from Karl Bitter, an Austrian-American sculptor, and Thomas Hastings, an American architect. Unfortunately, Bitter passed away before the completion of the project. His assistant, Karl Gruppe, together with Isidore Konti, took over.

The design features five-tiered basins with a bronze statue of Pomona, the Roman Greek Goddess of abundance, holding a fruit basket. At the base are spouts from which the water emerges, cascading down to the basins. Interesting dates worth noting are:

  • 1916 – Dedication of the fountain
  • 1948 – First restoration of the limestone structure
  • 1970 – Replacement of the central basin with a granite one
  • 1980s – Rehabilitation to restore the fountain’s functioning
  • 1996 – Second replacement of the central basin, as the first one had developed cracks

Over time, the Pulitzer Fountain has become a prominent NYC landmark. Its favorable location and proximity to major landmarks like the Museum of Modern Art and the Empire State Building make it a popular spot for locals and tourists.

Pulitzer Fountain
Source: Wikicommons /Rangilo Gujarati

Where Is the Pulitzer Fountain and How Do You Get There?

The Pulitzer Fountain is located in Grand Army Plaza at the southeastern corner of Central Park, directly across from the Plaza Hotel. You can approach it from the southeast entrance to Central Park or the end of the Fifth Avenue shopping corridor.

  • By Subway: You can use the subway as there are plenty of options.
  • By Train: N, R, and Q stop at 57th Street. 1, 2,3, A, B, C, and D trains will get you to 59th Street. B and C trains have stops near the park as well.
  • By Bus: M10, M1, M2, M3, M4, M57, M66, M72, M79, M86, M96, M106, M116, M20 (from Penn Station). Q32 from Grand Central Station will get you to the location.

Experience the charm and history of the Pulitzer Fountain, open year-round and surrounded by iconic attractions such as Central Park, the Plaza Hotel, and Fifth Avenue. You can also have fun at the seasonal decorations, serene ambiance, and nearby events of this historic fountain any time you visit.

What to Expect When You Visit

Visiting the Pulitzer Fountain offers a serene escape in the heart of New York City. The soothing sound of the cascading waterfall provides a refreshing escape from the bustling city life. The fountain is a popular tourist spot that can get busy, especially during weekends and holidays.

Do not forget to charge your camera for fantastic photo ops with the fountain as the backdrop. You could also sign up for the NYC Central Park Night-time photography tour. During your visit, you might encounter seasonal events, concerts, and art shows around the fountain. The dazzling lights and decorations during the holiday season transform the area into a magical wonderland.

An image of the well-lit and decorated Pulitzer fountain
Source: Central Park

What Else Can You Do When You Visit the Pulitzer Fountain?

There are many exciting places and events to attend near the fountain. The fountain’s proximity to Fifth Avenue is a shopper’s paradise. There are tons of luxury brands to spend money on. Other things to do include:

  • A walking tour of the Fifth Avenue Gilded Age mansions.
  • Walking and boat tours of NYC allow you to enjoy the city from land and water and see iconic landmarks.
  • Central Park walking tour with Yoga sessions amidst the calmness of the park.
  • Horse and carriage rides at Central Park.
  • Explore the vast expanse of Central Park on a guided bike tour, perfect for seeing more in less time.
  • Just a short distance away, visit one of the most famous skyscrapers in the world for breathtaking views of the city.
  • Indulge in a delightful combination of live music and delicious food at The Cutting Room NYC.

FAQs

Is there a fee to view the Pulitzer Fountain?

No, the public has free access to the place.

When is the fountain open to the public?

As an outdoor public landmark, the fountain can be visited anytime and on any day of the week.

What is the best time to visit the Pulitzer Fountain?

Anytime is a good time to visit. Seasonal celebrations are also a great time to visit as the fountain transforms due to the dazzling decorations.

You may also catch some art shows, pop-up markets, and concerts in the park venue.

Is the fountain wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the park is wheelchair accessible.

Can I have my pet with me in the park?

Yes, but you must keep them on a leash at all times.

Joseph Pulitzer left behind a beautiful gift that people will continue to enjoy for years. Surrounded by iconic NYC landmarks and offering a variety of engaging activities, it provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

The venue immerses you in the rich tapestry of New York City’s history and culture. Surrounded by iconic landmarks such as Central Park, the Plaza Hotel, and Fifth Avenue, the fountain is perfectly positioned for a full day of exploration and enjoyment.

Whether you’re drawn to its architectural marvel, eager to partake in the lively events surrounding it or yearn for a serene moment by the water, this historic site caters to all.

Nearby attractions and activities, from shopping sprees to guided tours, make your visit even more memorable.


NYC Central Park Night Time Photography Tour

The post Pulitzer Fountain: A Symbol of Abundance and Timeless Beauty appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

CBD For Sunburn: A Natural Helper From Nature

The #1 source in the world for all things Harlem.

Sunburns can be really unpleasant, can’t they? The painful skin, the burning sensation, and the redness – all of it can really ruin your day. But what if I told you there’s a natural way to soothe the discomfort? Today, I want to share my personal experience with CBD for sunburn and show you how…

The post CBD For Sunburn: A Natural Helper From Nature appeared first on Harlem World Magazine.

* This article was originally published here

The Ultimate Guide To Sustainable Fashion To Shop Ethically

The #1 source in the world for all things Harlem.

Sustainable fashion is changing how we think about clothes. Choosing sustainable fashion means making better choices for people and the environment. It might seem like a challenge at first, but it’s worth it. Fast fashion is very harmful to our planet. The quick production and throwaway nature of these clothes lead to a lot of…

The post The Ultimate Guide To Sustainable Fashion To Shop Ethically appeared first on Harlem World Magazine.

* This article was originally published here

Explore Tanger Outlets Deer Park: A Shopper’s Paradise and Family Fun Destination

Step into a world where shopping meets excitement at Tanger Outlets Deer Park. This vibrant destination offers more than just retail therapy. Whether you’re hunting for deals at top brand stores, savoring delicious bites at various eateries, or enjoying one of the many events and festivals, there’s always something buzzing at this dynamic outlet center. Located 35 miles from Manhattan, the venue promises an unforgettable shopping, entertainment, and family-friendly day.

Background on Tanger Outlets Deer Park

One of the many Tanger shopping centers, Tanger Outlets Deer Park is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. The mall was designed by Adams + Associates Architecture and opened in October 2008. Unlike many other malls, Tanger Outlets follows an open-air layout spread over 740,000 square feet. Along with brand outlets, the mall is known for its energy-efficient buildings. It is one of the largest retail centers in America to be awarded a LEED Silver Core and Shell rating by USGBC. Over 150 million consumers visit the mall each year​.

A pedestrian-friendly shopping experience is one of the unique aspects of Tanger Outlets Deer Park. The mall has over 85 brand names and designer outlet stores. The brand outlets include Aldo, Swarovski, Torrid, Le Creuset, Tommy Hilfiger, Spencer’s, and Levi’s. Also, a 16-screen state-of-the-art digital theater offers the IMAX and 3D experience. Brand outlets are open all seven days of the week, while events may be day or date-specific

Where Is Tanger Outlets Deer Park and How Do You Get There?

The venue stands south of the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve between Grand Boulevard and Long Island Avenue. It is about 35 miles from Manhattan but easily accessible by private and public transport.

  • By bus: Take bus number 4 or 5 to Grand Blvd/The Arches Cir.
  • By train: Take the Long Island Rail Road from Ronkonkoma to Deer Park station.
People walking down the street near Tanger Outlets
Source: Tanger Leasing

What to Expect When You Visit

Tanger Outlets Deer Park is open every day from 10 am to 9 pm and gets busier as the day passes. The most busy times are evenings and weekends, especially Saturdays and Sundays. For more relaxed shopping, consider visiting on weekday mornings when the mall is less crowded.

If you’re visiting for the first time, grab a store map to help navigate the expansive layout. With over 85 brand-name and designer outlet stores, expect to do a fair amount of walking, so wearing comfortable shoes is highly recommended. The mall’s open-air design adds to the relaxed vibe, making it an enjoyable destination whether you’re there for a quick visit or an all-day outing.

Entry is free for all shoppers at the Tanger Outlets. The mall also hosts a combination of free and ticketed events. Book your tickets online for an assured seat at the events.

What Else Can You Do When You Visit Tanger Outlets Deer Park?

Beyond the fantastic shopping at the venue, many activities make your visit even more delightful. After scoring deals at countless brand-name and designer outlets, you can savor a meal at one of the mall’s diverse dining options, ranging from quick bites to sit-down restaurants.

For added fun, catch a movie at the nearby state-of-the-art theater, which frequently features the latest releases. Visit the nearby trampoline park for high-flying fun.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve, ideal for a relaxing walk or a family picnic amidst beautiful surroundings. These additional attractions ensure that your trip to Tanger Outlets Deer Park is filled with varied activities, making it a perfect destination for a full day of shopping, dining, and entertainment.​

FAQs

How many floors do the Tanger Outlets in Deer Park have?

The Tanger Outlets Deer Park is spread over two floors.

Are there restaurants in Tanger Outlets Deer Park?

Tanger Outlets Deer Park has several restaurants, coffee shops, and cafes. The mall also frequently hosts food festivals and food trucks.

What kind of stores can you find at Tanger Outlets Deer Park?

It has stores selling men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel and various home goods.

Tanger Outlets Deer Park offers a well-rounded adventure that goes beyond shopping. Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast hunting for the latest discounts, an epicure looking to savor various culinary delights, or seeking amusement and adventure, this venue has it all.

The open-air, pedestrian-friendly setup makes it a pleasant place to explore, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the day.
From catching a movie at the theater to bouncing at the trampoline park or relishing a peaceful walk at the Edgewood Oak Brush Plains Preserve, your day can be as action-packed or laid-back as you desire.

The diverse dining options and frequent events add to the vibrant atmosphere, making each visit unique and exciting. Its blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

The post Explore Tanger Outlets Deer Park: A Shopper’s Paradise and Family Fun Destination appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here