All Of It: Reasons to Love New York in 2024, According to New York Magazine

Host: Alison Stewart
Guest: Corey Sika, New York Magazine Editor at Large
Release Date: December 6, 2024
Duration: Approximately 28 minutes

Introduction

In this episode of All Of It, hosted by Alison Stewart, the focus is on celebrating the vibrant culture and dynamic spirit of New York City in 2024. Joined by Corey Sika, New York Magazine’s Editor at Large, the show delves into the city’s myriad reasons to be cherished, drawing from listener contributions and insightful discussions.

Editorial Insights

Corey Sika provides an inside look into the editorial process behind New York Magazine's prestigious annual feature, 39 Reasons to Love New York. He explains how the team collaborates extensively, often locking themselves away for months to curate the most heartfelt and authentic reasons that encapsulate the city's essence.

Alison Stewart adds, “We do this all year because you look back in the year, do you remember that we had an earthquake this year?” (01:55) highlighting the unpredictable yet resilient nature of the city’s narrative.

Themes of 2024

The discussions reveal that 2024 has been a particularly uplifting year for New York City. From bustling nightlife and flourishing restaurants to iconic landmarks and vibrant streets, the city exudes a renewed sense of energy and optimism.

Corey Sika notes, “New York feels really good right now. I mean, I just probably jinxed us.” (02:31) reflecting the general sentiment of positivity among residents and visitors alike.

Listener Stories and Contributions

The heart of the episode lies in the diverse and touching stories shared by listeners, each illustrating unique facets of why New York remains unparalleled.

Preserving Traditions: Delis and SNL

Alison Stewart emphasizes the city's selective nature in preserving its beloved institutions. “If your deli of two decades or four decades changes, you're gonna be furious,” she states (04:03), underscoring the deep emotional connections New Yorkers have with their favorite local spots.

Corey Sika highlights Saturday Night Live (SNL) as a cultural pillar, saying, “SNL is how we talk about America,” (04:40) emphasizing its role in representing New York’s voice to the national stage.

Sports Triumphs: Mets, Yankees, and Liberty

2024 has been a banner year for New York sports teams. The Mets' playoff run and the Yankees reaching the World Series have ignited the city's passion.

A listener shares, “October was a great month for baseball fans in New York. The Mets made the playoff and the Yankees made the World Series,” (06:37), celebrating the thrill and camaraderie that sports bring to the city.

Moreover, the New York Liberty WNBA team clinched the 2024 championship, a monumental achievement hailed by fans. “The New York Liberty, they are the 2024 WNBA champs. This is like an incredible thing,” Corey remarks (17:44), applauding the team's dedication and success.

Unique NYC Experiences

Bed-Stuy Goldfish Pond: One of the standout stories involves a community-created goldfish pond in Bed-Stuy, which became a viral sensation. Alison Stewart narrates, “one of the greatest stories of the year and one of the greatest New York things of all time,” (08:07) describing how a leaking fire hydrant transformed into a beloved tourist attraction filled with goldfish.

Chalamet Lookalike Contest: A quirky yet charming event organized by Anthony Poe in Washington Square Park saw numerous Timothée Chalamet lookalikes converge, sparking a national craze. Alison Stewart explains, “there's enough smart people and hot people who look like Timothée Chalamet here,” (09:12) highlighting the city's knack for creating memorable spectacles.

House of Yes Dance Party: Marilyn from Chelsea recounts an exhilarating night at House of Yes in Bushwick, where exuberant dancing and live performances fostered a sense of community and joy. “Everybody dancing with everybody...how could I ever leave this city if this is what you can do on a regular Thursday evening,” she shares (12:13).

Acts of Kindness and Community Support

New York thrives on the kindness and support its residents show one another. Several listeners shared heartwarming stories of assistance and community spirit.

Lost and Found Miracle: A caller from Manhattan describes how a bus driver went above and beyond to return her lost bag. “He was so sweet...he got a bus driver to take me and my friend in a bus that was not in service yet,” she narrates (25:13).

Helping Eyes for the Visually Impaired: Harold from Midtown shares his experience of losing vision and receiving overwhelming support from strangers. “Young, old, different languages...offering assistance,” he says (27:06), showcasing the city's inclusive and helpful nature.

Cultural Institutions and Landmarks

The High Line: Contrary to its usual portrayal, the High Line also serves as a unique memorial space. Alison Stewart reveals, “we keep finding human ashes in one small, beautiful corner of the High Line,” (14:40) highlighting a poignant and personal layer to this beloved urban park.

Metropolitan Opera and Museums: Listeners praised the warmth and accessibility of New York's cultural institutions. From intermissions at the Metropolitan Opera fostering community interactions to museums offering free days, these institutions continue to enrich the city's cultural tapestry.

Social Progress and Accessibility

Elimination of Broker Fees: A significant legislative victory in 2024 was the removal of broker fees, alleviating financial burdens on tenants. Alison Stewart explains, “Chi Osay and compatriots have been trying to take away the process of forcing tenants to pay their landlord's broker,” (05:26), celebrating progressive changes that empower city residents.

Youth Independence: Discussions also touched on the increasing independence of New York’s youth, with children navigating the subway system confidently. Alison Stewart notes, “if you go into a Starbucks or you take the bus at like a 3:15 in the afternoon, you're gonna see a lot of 9, 10, 11 year olds doing great on their own,” (21:36), highlighting a unique aspect of urban upbringing.

Notable Quotes

• Corey Sika: "SNL is how we talk about America." (04:40)
• Alison Stewart: "If your deli of two decades or four decades changes, you're gonna be furious." (04:03)
• Alison Stewart: "We keep finding human ashes in one small, beautiful corner of the High Line." (14:40)
• Marilyn from Chelsea: "How could I ever leave this city if this is what you can do on a regular Thursday evening." (12:13)
• Harold from Midtown: "Young, old, different languages...offering assistance." (27:06)

Conclusion

The episode wraps up by celebrating the myriad ways New York City continues to inspire and captivate its inhabitants and visitors. From cultural triumphs and historic preservation to acts of kindness and social progress, All Of It paints a comprehensive and heartfelt portrait of why New York remains a beloved metropolis.

Listeners are invited to continue sharing their stories and reasons to love New York, ensuring that the city's rich and diverse tapestry is continually woven with personal experiences and communal pride.

For more stories and cultural insights, tune in to All Of It with Alison Stewart, weekdays from 12:00 - 2:00 PM on WNYC.