The Prime Cut

On the wild West side of Manhattan lies the Meatpacking District of New York, nestled in the 6 square blocks below 14th Street, right beside the Hudson River.For decades, The Meatpacking District was the industrial center for the processing of meats for New York.


Now, it seems economic pressures are squeezing out the meatpacking industry, and standing in its place are hip cafes and bars, designer stores and sleek hotels.The Meatpacking District has quickly become one of the most decadent locations for nightlife in New York City, and part of the attraction is the gritty, wild side to the neighborhood, because of the very industry that gave the district its name. In the face of this change, local residents and long-time workers are currently renegotiating their role and place in the District. This piece is a kind of snapshot of a colorful Manhattan community in a state of flux.


The Prime Cut is a radio narrative woven from the tales of locals who have a personal association with the neighborhood. When combined, these tales tell a really powerful story. A story that resonates with anyone who has experienced change to a place that was important to them.
In this way, The Prime Cut represents a universal experience.
We all have places that are meaningful to us, places with which we closely identify. These places are storehouses of memory and history.
These are the places that shape us.

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