NYC NOW

A federal judge has put a temporary stop to fast-track deportations in New York, igniting discussions on civil rights. In a surprising twist, a bird collector faces hefty fines for trafficking endangered species. The vibrant Harlem Night Market is back, promising delicious food and local music. Meanwhile, political tensions rise as Albany grapples with a budget stalemate, spotlighting the Assembly Speaker's controversial accountability proposals and the mayor's unique fashion choice that reflects his faith amid challenges.

New York City's Department of Sanitation is cracking down on landlords with fines for improper composting. Meanwhile, construction is ramping up on a new jail in Brooklyn, causing frustration among nearby residents due to noise disturbances. However, the community finds joy as Harlem's Uptown Night Market makes a vibrant return, showcasing local culture and spirit. Amidst these challenges, a nonprofit takeover offers hope for tenants in a distressed Bronx building plagued by neglect.

Mayor Eric Adams is allowing federal agencies to set up offices on Rikers Island, raising concerns about transparency. A watchdog group is pushing for a law to enable voter-driven recall elections for mayors, linked to recent corruption issues. Families of detainees who died at Rikers express frustration over the lack of answers regarding their loved ones. The discussion highlights systemic failures within the Department of Correction, including inadequate medical care and rising violence, as families demand accountability and clarity.

New York City bar owners are feeling the pinch from new tariffs on imported alcohol, making it tough to navigate rising costs. Political tensions are brewing as Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie challenges Governor Hochul’s budget powers amidst a delayed state budget. Meanwhile, police defend their controversial gang database, claiming it has successfully linked multiple suspects to shootings in East Harlem, even as the City Council debates its future.

Ramsey Calife, a WNYC reporter, dives into significant news, including the dropped charges against NYC Councilmember Susan Zhuang for an altercation with police. The discussion touches on the Trump Administration's demands surrounding DEI programs in schools. Calife also investigates the Roc Nation School of Music, Sports and Entertainment, revealing the harsh reality faced by students who expected debt-free graduation but encountered financial struggles instead. His insights shed light on the disappointments of scholarship recipients.

Justin Brannan, the Chair of the City Council's budget committee and representative of southwest Brooklyn, discusses the potential fallout from President Trump's tariffs on New York's economy. He highlights the challenges faced by local businesses beyond Wall Street. The NYPD's new essay contest aims to combat dangerous subway surfing among teens. Brannan also addresses the City Council's ambitious $117 billion budget counterproposal, stressing the importance of restoring essential services amidst economic uncertainty.

MTA's congestion pricing tolls will be in effect for another six months amidst ongoing legal battles. New York City has seized control of a neglected apartment building for the first time in years, aiming to improve tenant conditions. Additionally, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's potential endorsement could be pivotal in the upcoming mayoral race, especially against Andrew Cuomo. The intricacies of local politics and housing issues make for a compelling discussion.

New York City is cracking down on e-cigarette distributors for targeting minors with flavored products. The state budget is still hanging in limbo. Exciting changes are coming to the bus network in Queens, marking the first overhaul since the 1950s. The MTA is also teaming up with Google’s AI to enhance track maintenance. Finally, a nostalgic look at video stores and a touching poem for National Poetry Month round out the conversation.

Tenants in New York City are rallying for a rent freeze due to rising costs threatening their neighborhoods. Meanwhile, Broadway has a new karaoke night where fans can sing with stars every Monday, adding a fun twist to the theater scene. In another twist, the city is seeking artist designs for monuments honoring influential women, from trailblazers like Shirley Chisholm to icons of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, including Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. This celebration of women's contributions is a call to creativity and recognition.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is fighting against proposed rate hikes by Con Edison, arguing they would hurt struggling families. In a remarkable display of courage, an 11-year-old saved lives by calling 911 during a stabbing incident involving four girls in Brooklyn. Meanwhile, a controversial proposal for a casino near the United Nations has sparked discussions about community impact, featuring a Museum of Freedom and Democracy as part of the project.