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Car thefts in New York City fell nearly 10% in 2024, reversing years of steady increases, according to NYPD data. The National Weather Service predicts rain across the region for New Year’s Eve. Meanwhile, New Jersey’s minimum wage is set to rise by 36 cents in 2025, but advocates say many residents still struggle to make ends meet. WNYC’s Michael Hill talks with Stephanie Hoopes of the United Way of Northern New Jersey about the ongoing affordability challenges.

Get up and get informed! Here's all the local news you need to start your day: A federal tax credit supporting affordable housing in New Jersey is set to expire on Tuesday, jeopardizing plans for tens of thousands of homes. Meanwhile, allegations of staff abuse at Marcy Correctional Facility are under review after a handcuffed man was allegedly beaten by staff. The man died a day later. And finally, NBA star Victor Wembanyama played chess with fans in Washington Square Park despite the rain on Saturday.

A man’s 1981 robbery conviction may be vacated due to investigation flaws, igniting discussions about justice. Advocates are also pushing to ban legacy admissions in New York colleges for fairer opportunities. The MTA plans a $100 million upgrade to some of its oldest subway stations, focusing on cleanliness and accessibility. Finally, actor Ken Leung shares his journey from Chinatown to stardom, reflecting on family expectations and his passion for creating content in Cantonese.

New York City has activated a Code Blue as temperatures drop, opening shelters for those in need. There's also a warning about rising RSV cases, emphasizing the importance of vaccinations. Hanukkah is celebrated with delicious latke recipes that highlight the city's culinary diversity. Plus, discover the fascinating story of Pristine Jewelers, a luxury brand beloved by hip-hop stars like Fat Joe and Cardi B, showcasing their journey and the cultural impact of custom jewelry in the music scene.

With some New Yorkers away for the holidays, WNYC’s Janae Pierre and Ryan Kailath discuss things to do as the city clears out. Plus, a Brooklynite shares her family’s coquito recipe.

Michael Hayes, a WNYC reporter focused on affordable housing, discusses the alarming recent subway violence, including two murders that have sparked safety concerns among commuters. He highlights that, despite fears, statistics show subways are generally safer than city streets. The conversation shifts to a controversial affordable housing project in Millburn, New Jersey, where community pushback raises questions about traffic and taxes, revealing the tensions between local desires and state mandates for affordable living.

A toll on drivers in Manhattan below 60th Street is closer to becoming reality after a federal judge rejected an injunction to block congestion pricing. Meanwhile, Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed a bill that would have allowed people with felony convictions to serve on juries. Plus, New York City may also revise its sanctuary city policies in the new year. Also, Brooklyn’s Buttermilk Channel is closing after 16 years, Finally, WNYC’s Jessica Gould takes us to Hell’s Kitchen, where kindergartners are exploring musical theater with a “Wicked” twist.

Get up and get informed! Here's all the local news you need to start your day: The NYPD credits surveillance images for the swift arrest of a man accused of setting a sleeping woman on fire, killing her on an F train Sunday. Meanwhile, some renters in NYC face challenges recovering security deposits when moving out. WNYC’s David Brand reports. Finally, FDNY members are outraged after funding for a 9/11 health care program was left out of the federal budget, threatening financial support for 35,000 responders with 9/11-related illnesses.

New York City Mayor Adams delivered his annual year end press conference to reflect on his accomplishments in 2024. Plus, Amazon workers at seven facilities are striking for better pay and working conditions, as customers await a flood of holiday deliveries. Also, WNYC’s Sean Carlson talks with Joshua Klainberg with New York League of Conservation Voters, about the risk presented by lead pipes. And finally, some tips to help you maneuver around holiday traffic this weekend.