In 1994, a little something called Java was first unleashed into the tech world. Not the coffee (though we love that too) — the programming language that would go on to power everything from mobile apps to smart TVs. Created by a team at Sun Microsystems, Java’s big promise was “write once, run anywhere.” (Which, if you're a programmer, is basically the equivalent of a mic drop.)
Fast forward to today, and Java is still doing its thing — behind the scenes in Android phones, ATMs, and even NASA systems. So next time your microwave feels a little too smart, just know Java might be helping it judge your reheating skills.
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One of New York’s Most Popular Hiking Destinations Is Getting an Eco Transformation
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If you’ve ever daydreamed about swapping car horns for chirping birds and a quick city escape for stunning mountaintop views, Breakneck Ridge is probably on your radar. Just 90 minutes north of Manhattan by train, this Hudson Highlands trail is like nature’s own roller coaster — steep, thrilling, and wildly popular. So popular, in fact, that over 100,000 people hike it each year. (Yes, that’s more than some concerts get.)
But here’s the twist: all that foot traffic is starting to wear the place down. Between invasive plants, poorly managed stormwater, and thousands of boots stomping through every weekend, the landscape is—quite literally—being loved to death.
Enter the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail, a thoughtful and ambitious rescue mission designed to protect the beauty of this region while making it even safer and more enjoyable for visitors. Spearheaded by Gena Wirth, design principal at SCAPE Landscape Architecture, the project is more than just a facelift — it's a long-term love letter to the land. By 2030, the trail will stretch 7.5 miles from Cold Spring to Beacon, easing the pressure on Breakneck Ridge while restoring the surrounding ecosystem.
Think elevated boardwalks, better paths, beautiful overlooks, and safe spaces for people to enjoy nature without trampling it. It’s a win for hikers, a win for wildlife, and a huge win for future weekend adventurers.
Take a peek at the trail's stunning new renderings here and imagine your next hike—no crowds, no crumbling paths, just pure scenic magic.
Photo of the Day
Adam Pretty/Getty Images
The French Open, also known as Roland-Garros, is underway in Paris. Poland’s No. 5-ranked Iga Świątek — pictured here during her match against Brit Emma Raducanu yesterday — is already through to round three of the tennis tournament. But plenty of other top athletes will have to win today to advance in men’s and women’s singles, including Coco Gauff, Jannik Sinner, Novak Djokovic, and Jessica Pegula. Follow the bracket. |
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“The time to be happy is now, the place to be happy is here, the way to be happy is to make others so.” – ROBERT G. INGERSOLL
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