A few quick small blog posts by @ajayjapan on food, tech and travel.

Greenpoint (Dec 12)

Welcome to the Greenpoint Newsletter!

This week, we're highlighting the vibrant culture and unique offerings of this Brooklyn neighborhood. From the resurgence of the real estate market to the independent movie theater, from the biogas project to the holiday market, Greenpoint is a great place to live, work, and play.

We'll also be featuring the latest news and updates from the area, including the proposed bus route overhaul, the Jewish deli exhibit, and the End Hedge Fund Control of American Homes Act. So join us as we explore all that Greenpoint has to offer!

Manhattan's Hybrid Work Pain Is Brooklyn Office Owners' Gain

The Brooklyn real estate market has seen a resurgence since the pandemic, with Williamsburg/Greenpoint commanding $67 per SF and leasing volume for the borough up 41% from 2021. The area has become a hub for startups and small businesses, with the Brooklyn Navy Yard offering coaching and connections to marketing classes and financial providers.

GHOSH, THIS IS INTERESTING NEWS

Rhea Ghosh, CMO of copyright-protection service Cosynd, is a veteran of the sector and a resident of Greenpoint, Brooklyn. She previously served as global head of marketing at Downtown Music Publishing and oversaw marketing and partnerships for the NY Is Music coalition.

The Top 10 Neighborhoods For Singles In New York City

Greenpoint, located in Brooklyn between Williamsburg and Highland Park, is a hip, industrial neighborhood with eclectic bars, coffee shops, and avant-garde entertainment venues. With a deep history in importing/exporting, the bustling area has gentrified over time to feature swanky restaurants and art galleries. Average rent for a studio is around $2,500 and $2,700 for a one-bedroom.

New Yorker of the Week: Derek Atson

Derek Atson, a Greenpoint resident, is giving back this holiday season by hosting his second annual toy giveaway. He's hoping to give out hundreds of toys to kids in need. Atson is also known for handing out Thanksgiving leftovers to homeless people in his local park and purchasing grocery bags for families in need. Spread the love this holiday season with Derek Atson!

Where to Eat and Drink at the Revamped Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is undergoing a massive revitalization project, transforming it into a culinary and nightlife destination. From acclaimed eateries like NARO and Five Acres to bars like Pebble Bar and Other Half Brewing, there's something for everyone. Plus, don't miss the Brooklyn-based Greenpoint's doughnuts at Dough Doughnuts.

Stuart Cinema & Café has brought Emelyn Stuart’s visions of a community space to life

Emelyn Stuart's independent movie theater, Stuart Cinema & Café, in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, has been a success since she opened it in 2018. The theater features showings of the latest Hollywood films, discounted screenings for parents and children, and a café with soups, sandwiches, empanadas, and pastries. Stuart is also working on a three-screen multiplex in her childhood neighborhood of Sunset Park.

Brooklyn, New York, Home With 2,531 Square Feet and Four Bedrooms Asks $4.35 Million

This Brooklyn, New York home offers 2,531 sq. ft. of living area, a luxurious primary bedroom suite, an award-winning kitchen, and a private rooftop terrace with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Located in the desirable Greenpoint neighborhood, it is close to schools, eateries, medical facilities, convenience stores, and parks. Public transportation options are also nearby.

Only NY x Blank Street Coffee Collection: Products, Pop-up, Details

Only NY and Blank Street Coffee have teamed up to release an apparel collection inspired by NYC. The collection includes a cobranded tote bag, long-sleeved shirts, and uniforms for Blank Street Coffee's baristas. The brands have also created a special coffee blend. The collection is available at select Blank Street Coffee stores and its website, and a pop-up is taking place at Only NY's Greenpoint location through Dec. 16.

New York City Needs Housing for Everyone, Not More Shelter Beds

In response to the influx of migrants and skyrocketing rents, New York City Mayor Eric Adams declared a state of emergency in 2020. To address the perfect storm of insufficient temporary and permanent housing, the city opened emergency shelters, built tent intake centers, and negotiated with cruise line companies to house those in need. However, the right to shelter mandate has not solved the homelessness crisis, and the city must shift its mindset from a right to shelter to a right to housing. To achieve this, the city must reform zoning and land use processes, address the outdated property tax system, and invest more in the production of affordable housing, such as in the West Farms section of the Bronx. RiseBoro Community Partnership has already converted hotels and single-room occupancy buildings into affordable housing units in Greenpoint, Brooklyn.

Park Slope Ramen Restos Among Best In NYC, Eater Says

Eater NY has published its list of the city's best ramen, including Brooklyn's Ramen Danbo, Mokbar, Ramen Setagaya Japan Village, Kogane, Wanpaku in Greenpoint, and Ichiran in Bushwick.

The Best Places to Shop Small for Holiday Gifts in New York City

Greenpoint's Franklin Ave. retail strip is home to Big Night, a store dedicated to the art of the dinner party. With a tightly-curated selection of design-forward pieces for the home, as well as limited furniture selection, Big Night is the perfect place to find thoughtful gifts for any occasion.

More maps: Redistricting commission releases new draft Assembly maps, proposing big changes for southern Brooklyn • Brooklyn Paper

The Independent Redistricting Commission last week unanimously voted to approve and release a new draft Assembly map that could make some big changes to Brooklyn’s representation in the lower chamber, including a split of Williamsburg and Greenpoint in AD50.

NYC's Proposed Private Helicopter Ban Is One of the Best Ideas in Years

New York City is considering a ban on nonessential helicopters, which have caused an increase in noise and air pollution. Brooklyn city councilmember Lincoln Restler, endorsed by several socialist elected officials, has proposed the ban, which would protect the environment and everyone's quality of life. The ban has been advocated for by the Stop the Chop coalition, and has the support of several Democratic congressional representatives from New York. The proposed ban would help reduce noise and air pollution in Greenpoint and Williamsburg, two strongholds of the New York City Democratic Socialists of America.

The spirit of giving: Brooklynites bring their holiday fundraising efforts online • Brooklyn Paper

This holiday season, Greenpoint residents are coming together to spread cheer and support their community. Through crowdfunding websites like GoFundMe, local initiatives like toy drives, holiday lightings, and more are thriving. GoFundMe Regional Spokesperson Madison Jones said these efforts are more important than ever, as many are feeling the pinch of rising prices. By giving individuals a platform to raise funds, crowdfunding websites are helping those in need. So this holiday season, let's come together to support our Greenpoint community!

Eagle + West (Greenpoint Landing Block D) / OMA / Jason Long

Greenpoint Landing is a residential complex in Brooklyn's Greenpoint neighborhood, located at the northernmost tip of the borough where Newtown Creek meets the East River. The complex consists of two towers, one thirty stories and one forty stories, with 30% of the units designated as affordable housing. The towers are connected by an amenity bridge with views of the Manhattan skyline, and feature terraces and green spaces that echo Greenpoint's pastoral origins.

Obituary: Barbara A. Small - Portland Press Herald

Barbara A. (Lazauskas) Small, 77, passed away Dec. 1, 2022, after a 10-year battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born in Brooklyn, N.Y. and married George Small Jr. in 1965. They relocated to Maine in 1978 from Greenpoint, Brooklyn. She is survived by her husband and four children.

Cosynd Names Rhea Ghosh as Chief Marketing Officer

Cosynd, the leading copyright protection service empowering creators from 120 countries, has promoted Rhea Ghosh to Chief Marketing Officer. She will lead all marketing and communications initiatives and consumer brand strategy, and head up Cosynd's advocacy efforts with its partner network. Ghosh, who resides in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, brings a decade of experience in developing the narratives of entrepreneurs, brands, and creators.

Gotham Point's North Tower Wraps Up Construction in Hunters Point South, Queens

Gotham Point's north tower, a 57-story residential skyscraper at 1-15 57th Avenue in Hunters Point South, Queens, is nearing completion. Designed by Handel Architects and developed by Gotham Organization and Riseboro Community Partnership, the 559-foot-tall structure will yield 692 rental units and is also known as Parcel F. Across the Newtown Creek, the neighborhood of Greenpoint is also experiencing a boom in high-rise development. Construction of the north tower is expected to finish in the second quarter of 2023.

Climate displacement may affect inland areas

As sea levels rise, New Yorkers are leaving coastal areas, such as Greenpoint, Brooklyn, in search of higher ground. This population shift is leading to displacement in low-income neighborhoods in Manhattan, the Bronx, and Brooklyn. To address this, the city needs to create a plan to expand housing availability and keep these areas affordable.

NBK Parks Alliance and Steve Wasterval Collaborate on Limited Edition Prints

NBK Parks Alliance and Steve Wasterval have teamed up for a limited-edition series of prints celebrating Greenpoint. Get your print before they sell out! Donate to NBK Parks to help them continue their work making our parks and green spaces more accessible.

How to Spend the Perfect December Day at Rockefeller Center

Spend the perfect December day at Rockefeller Center! From famous retailers to iconic attractions and restaurants, this 22-acre landmark offers a long list of one-of-a-kind experiences. Grab a cup of coffee at Café Grumpy, take a scenic walk with Gesso, fill up with a midday meal at Jupiter, sip on a cup of hot chocolate from Breads, go ice skating at The Rink, experience a golden hour view at Top of the Rock, and pick up some scents at Apotheke. End your day with dinner at Greenpoint's newest restaurant, The Barge.

Our Holiday Market is BACK and Merrier Than Ever! Check Out Our Vendors!

The Greenpointers Holiday Market is back! Join us this Sunday, Dec 11th from 1-7 pm at the Greenpoint Loft (67 West St 5th flr) and shop 60+ local vendors with handmade treasures. Enjoy craft beer, smoky cider margaritas, tasty treats, and free activities for the kiddies. Don't miss out!

New City Council Legislation Hopes to Curb Excessive Filming in Greenpoint

Film and TV productions have been a nuisance for North Brooklyn residents, with "No Parking: Filming" signs popping up all over Greenpoint. Council members Lincoln Restler and Gale Brewer have introduced legislation to cap the number of days crews can shoot in particular Census tracts to just 10 per month.

Long-delayed project to convert compost, waste into gas for NYC homes slated to launch in January

The biogas project at the Newtown Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant in Greenpoint is now up and running, after years of delays. The project, helmed by National Grid and the city’s Department of Environmental Protection, converts organic waste into natural gas for heating fuel, reducing demand for fossil fuels and providing a home for waste.

Southern Brooklyn Assemblymember-elect Lester Chang may not meet residency requirements, Assembly to investigate • Brooklyn Paper

Greenpoint, Brooklyn is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich history. Located on the northernmost tip of Brooklyn, it is home to a diverse population of artists, entrepreneurs, and families. The area is known for its unique shops, restaurants, and nightlife, as well as its stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Greenpoint is a great place to live, work, and play.

A housing lottery closes soon for 14 apartments in Greenpoint

Applications close soon for 14 newly constructed apartments at 150 Bayard St., Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Eligible applicants must earn $47,520 to $187,330. Rents start at $1,288. Apply online or postmarked by Dec. 27.

The Best Movie Theaters in NYC 2022

Light Industry, the experimental theater in East Williamsburg, reopened this fall after a decade in Greenpoint. It offers avant-garde, art house, and archived films, such as pre-Code Hollywood Island of Lost Souls (1932) and James Benning's Ten Skies (2004). It's the perfect place to catch rare films and experience the unique curation of its members' collective.

Where to Buy a Christmas Tree in North Brooklyn

Greenpoint is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit! With several Christmas tree stands located throughout the neighborhood, it's easy to find the perfect tree for your home. Greg's Trees, Greenpoint Trees, and Paradise Florist are all great places to find a live Christmas tree, plus they offer delivery and other festive activities. Don't miss out on the holiday cheer in Greenpoint this season!

Sahbi Sahbi Puts Morocco’s Culinary Traditions on Display, and Other News

Studio KO has designed Sahbi Sahbi, a temple to Moroccan craft and cuisine in Marrakech's Guéliz district. In Brooklyn's Greenpoint neighborhood, OMA has created Eagle + West, a pair of skyscrapers with cantilevers and concrete paneling.

Need a Christmas tree? Instacart offering same-day delivery of holiday decor.

Instacart now offers same-day, nationwide delivery of live and artificial Christmas trees, along with additional seasonal decor, from a variety of stores. Greenpoint Trees, a Brooklyn-based company, provides trees for the William H. Pouch Scout Camp, with prices ranging from $40-$125.

The right way to honor the Jewish deli

The New-York Historical Society’s Jewish deli exhibit is getting rave reviews as it kicks off a months-long run highlighting the history of these delicious establishments, including Frankel's in Greenpoint. Enjoy a giant pastrami on rye, fat wedge fries, full sour pickle and a Dr. Brown’s soda at a real deli, or order Carnegie Deli’s decadent mile-high meat sandwiches online. Grab Gus’ pickles downtown, kasha varnishkes from Ben’s in Queens, Gottlieb’s in Brooklyn, or Frankel’s in Greenpoint. Enjoy a Jewish deli feast and savor the full sour pickles.

Mansion Global Daily: Proposed Bill Would Penalize Companies for Owning More Than 100 Homes

OMA has completed two boxy towers with cantilevered cubes in Brooklyn's Greenpoint neighborhood, part of the ongoing Greenpoint Landing development. The End Hedge Fund Control of American Homes Act proposed by Sen. Jeff Merkley would limit the number of single-family houses a company can own to 100. Global home prices are expected to drop in 2023.

Support Our Local Schools with P.S. 34's Winter Auction

Greenpoint's P.S. 34 Oliver H. Perry Elementary School is running an online fundraising initiative, the 2022 Annual Winter Auction, with donations from over 400 local businesses, including some of Greenpoint's most popular restaurants. Bidding ends today at 9 p.m. - don't miss out!

NYC TikTok influencers struggle to rent in the city despite six-figure incomes

Kelsey Kotzur moved to New York City in 2015 and built a TikTok following of more than 144,000 with depictions of her life in the Big Apple. In July 2020, her rent for her two-bedroom in Greenpoint shot up, forcing her to move back to her small hometown of Plattsburgh, NY.

Bed-Stuy’s Kayla Toure Wins 2022 National American Miss Teen Pageant

Kayla Toure, Miss New York Teen 2022-23, was born and raised in Bed-Stuy. She attended P.S. 31 in Greenpoint and was crowned National American Miss Teen 2022-23.

Big Changes Could Be Coming To Park Slope Bus Routes

The MTA's proposed overhaul of Brooklyn's bus routes could mean big changes to how you get around Park Slope, including extending the route by 1.5 miles, increasing stop spacing from 748 feet to 1,002 feet, shifting the route from downtown Brooklyn to Greenpoint, and shortening the route to end at Prospect Park West and 20th Street.

5 Funky Houses and Apartments That’ll Inspire You To Get A Little Weird

Artist Ethan Cook traded his Clinton Hill perch for a SoHo loft in Greenpoint, a pre-skyscraper building with cast iron columns. He brought his furniture and the people before him had redone the floors, which he now likes. The full-floor loft of approximately 2,000 square feet allows for more collecting and a large site-specific piece.

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