September 5, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 6.27 am. Sunset 7.21 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 12 hours & 54 minutes of daylight or two hours and 12 minutes less of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Summer Solstice, on June 20, 2025. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of this year, providing 15 hours and 6 minutes of sunlight in NYC.
The photo above or at right, was taken at the Ferragosto Festival in Bronx Little Italy last year. The Italian celebration returns to Bronx Little Italy on Sunday. See below for details.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. About 1.3 inches of rain is in the forecast beginning sometime after 2 pm Saturday and ending by about 10 am Sunday. The temperature highs will be in the mid 80's on Friday and Saturday, falling to the low 70's on Sunday. The temperature lows will be in the high 70's for the remainder of Friday and Saturday, falling to the mid 60's on Sunday. The humidity reading takes some wild swings this weekend, starting Friday at near 100%, but falling to 60% by late afternoon, before climbing to near 90% by Saturday early morning. Humidity then falls back to 70% by early Saturday afternnoon, ending the day at 100%, and then gradually declining to about 70% by Sunday afternoon. Winds will range from 5 - 10 mph all weekend.
Friday Evening Edition @ 11.30 pm. This is a solid draft. We may possibly add a bit more info tomorrow, as we'll be working on projects related to this, on Saturday. Have a nice weekend.
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - see other boroughs.
Also 911 Commemorations next week
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, September 5, 6 & 7, 2025 daily 11 am to 7 pm, except Sunday when it closes at 6 pm - Armory Art Show at the Javits Center at 429 11th Avenue through the Crystal Palace Entrance. For details and $36 seniors / $46 evenings = last two hours / $59 general / $500 VIP / $182 multi-day tickets [FYI - selling fast as of 9.5.25] see - https://www.thearmoryshow.com/
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 beginning at 10 am - the Labor Day Parade in Manhattan. It marches along 5th Avenue from 44th Street to 64th Street. For details see - https://www.nycclc.org or https://nycclc.org/events/2025-nyc-labor-day-parade
Saturday & Sunday, September 6 & 7, 2025 from 10 am to 5 pm - the Gracie Square Art Show - in Carl Schurz Park at East 86th Street and East End Avenue on the Upper East Side. An art show featuring folks generally from NYC and the triborough area. Rain or Shine. For details see - https://www.graciesquareartshow.com
Thursday, August 28 to Saturday, September 6, 2025 beginning at 8 pm [excluding Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9/1, 2 & 3] - 12th Night Shakespeare in the Park - at Delacorte Theater in Central Park. For tickets and details [also free tickets on day of] see - https://publictheater.org/productions/season/2425/fsitp/twelfth-night/
Thursday - Sunday, September 11 - 21, 2025 event times vary - The 99th Annual Feast of San Gennaro Festival & Parade. This is an 11 day Italian festival that runs through Sunday, September 21st in Little Italy in Manhattan. There are events every afternoon / evening of the festival. It begins at 6 pm on Thursday 9/11/25 with the Blessing of the Stands. On Saturday, 9/13 from 2 to 5 pm there's a parade / procession through Little Italy. And on Friday, 9/19 at 6 pm there's a church service followed by a procession through the streets of Little Italy, departing from the Shrine Church of the Most Precious Blood at 113 Baxter Street. For details of other events at the San Gennaro Festival and a bit of history of San Gennaro and Little Italy Manhattan see our story about the Feast of San Gennaro Parade & Festival in Little Italy NYC - or visit their website for details of all events - https://sangennaronyc.org/
Gramercy Theater concerts - info coming but in the meantime - https://www.thegramercytheatre.com/shows
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - see other boroughs.
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS - Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Manhattan Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Manhattan Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
Mondays in August & September, Democracy Vigil Meeting. See MCAL link above for details.
Wednesdays & Saturdays - The Outlaws Who Built NYC Tours. See MCAL link above for details.
In the photo above or at right, you can see a local grocery store in Flushing Queens. Flushing is a center of Asian culture in Queens, especially for Taiwanese, Chinese and Korean Americans. There's a street festival celebrating multiple East Asian cultures on Saturday.
Thursday - Sunday, September 4 - 7, 2025 beginning at 6.30 pm daily, except Sunday when it begins at 3 pm and generally ends between 9.30 and 11 pm - The Fresh Pond Road Festival - Along Fresh Pond Road between Woodbine and Menahan Street. This is a big real Italian themed fair with great food, rides for kids and plenty of shopping. Organized by the Ridgewood Social Club. Brooklyn St fairs in Ridgewood organized by the Federazione Italo-Americana di Brooklyn and Queens. For details see the Ridgewood Social Club - https://www.facebook.com/p/Federazione-Italo-Americana-of-Brooklyn-and-Queens-100083057994083/ or the Myrtle Avenue BID - https://ridgewood-ny.com
Monday through Saturday, August 24 to September 7, 2025 daily beginning at 11 am - the U.S. Open Tennis Tournament at Arthur Ashe Stadium in the USTA Complex - in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. They sell grounds passes for $28 - $64 and tournament tickets from $500 - $2,200. For details and tickets see - https://www.usopen.org/
Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 10 am to 5 pm - Flushing BID Asian Street Festival - See street fairs page for details.
Sunday, September 7, 2025 from 10 am to 6 pm - Astoria Alive Festival - See street fairs page for details.
Sunday, September 7, 2025 from Dawn to Dusk - Sri Krishna Janmashtami - celebration of Krishna's birthday with Annual Harinama All Day Chanting at Mahamaya Mandir at 104-14 Liverpool St in Jamaica. Please rsvp at 347-626-9429. In prior years this was held at ISKON at 34-63 56th Street in Woodside. For details see - https://www.facebook.com/pujaprogramme/
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - The Rockaways. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
Bayside _ Thursday, September 11, 2025 - Bayside 911 Commemoration - at Memorial Garden on the north side of Horace Harding Expressway and Bell Blvd in Bayside Queens NYC. For details see - http://baysidevillagebid.com | https://www.facebook.com/story.php/?story_fbid=1255841659886231&id=100063812252167
St Markella Festival in Astoria starts Friday 9/12. Queens County Farm Maize Fest has started. Details coming next week.
Next Week. Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 2 to 3 pm, 5 to 6 pm & 7 to 8 pm - Queens Boro Dance Festival. at the Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Flushing. The performances cap the all summer long dance festival with performances in numerous locations across the borough. For details and to rsvp $29 tickets see - https://queensborodancefestival.org
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS - Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Queens Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Queens Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups. This month includes
The Hell Gate Walking Tour returns for the first three Sundays in September 2025. See MCAL link above for details.
Thursday - Sunday, September 4 - 7, 2025 beginning at 6.30 pm daily, except Sunday when it begins at 3 pm and generally ends between 9.30 and 11 pm - The Fresh Pond Road Festival - Along Fresh Pond Road between Woodbine and Menahan Street. This is a big real Italian themed fair with great food, rides for kids and plenty of shopping. Organized by the Ridgewood Social Club. Brooklyn St fairs in Ridgewood organized by the Federazione Italo-Americana di Brooklyn and Queens. For details see the Ridgewood Social Club - https://www.facebook.com/p/Federazione-Italo-Americana-of-Brooklyn-and-Queens-100083057994083/ or the Myrtle Avenue BID - https://ridgewood-ny.com
Saturday & Sunday, September 5 & 6, 2025 from 11 am to 6 pm - FAD Holiday Market - at Empire Stores at 55 Water Street in Dumbo Brooklyn.
Fridays, June 20 - September 5, 2025 _ Weekly _ The Coney Island Weekly Friday Night Fireworks - at Steeple Chase Tower off the Boardwalk near Luna Park [see fireworks link that follows for details]. Including July 4th. For details, copy & paste - https://www.allianceforconeyisland.org
Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 10 am to 3.30 pm - Bus Festival - in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Free. Details to follow - https://www.nytransitmuseum.org/busfestival/
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - Coney Island. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
Note that next weekend is jam packed with events as the Summer ends and the Fall Season kicks in.
Two Plays - Polonsky & Billie Holiday Theater.
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS. Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Brooklyn BLVD New Member Sign Up. Click this link Brooklyn MCAL - Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
Sunday, September 7, 2025 from 12 noon to 6 pm - Ferragosto Festival - in Little Italy along Arthur Avenue between East 187th Street and Crescent Avenue in the Belmont neighborhood of the Bronx NYC. It's an Italian harvest celebration & celebrating 101 years of Arthur Avenue in the Belmont section of the Bronx. Bronx St Fairs in the Belmont neighborhood. For details see - https://bronxlittleitaly.com
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - Orchard Beach in Pelham Bay Park. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
Friday, September 12, 2025 - 10 am to 6 pm - 161st Street Friday Fair - along 161st Street from Grand Concourse to Walton Avenue. This is a street fair.
Next weekend there's the the Central American Independence Parade and Festival in Crotona Park and the City Island Art Fair among other upcoming events in the Bronx. Details coming next week or see the parades & festivals or the street fairs pages links below.
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS. Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Bronx Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Bronx MCAL Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
September 27 & 28, 2025 - the Bartow Bricante Flea Market - see MCAL link above for details.
Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 11 am VIP / 12 noon to 4 pm - Pig Island Festival - at Snug Harbor Cultural Center. They described it as follows, "... this pork-laden festival [includes 20 chefs who] compete for the most delicious porcine dishes. There will also be craft beer, hard cider, spirits and other food offerings – all-included with a general admissions ticket ... " In the South Meadow at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden at 1000 Richmond Terrace in the Randall Manor neighborhood on Staten Island. Staten Island street fair / festival in Randall Manor - Admission $41 / $70 / $92. For details see - https://snug-harbor.org
The photo above or at right, shows the Brooklyn Bridge traversing the East River. Brooklyn Bridge Park is also in the photo at the foot of the bridge, on the Brooklyn side, which is the green space at right in the photo. The photo was taken last year from the Staten Island Ferry heading south to the Island.
Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 11 am to 4 pm - 1776 Peace Conference Celebration - At 1 pm there's an historical reenactment of the effort made by Benjamin Franklin and John Adams to obtain peace with Britain, to prevent the war for indepence from breaking out. At the Conference House in Tottenville on Staten Island. Admission suggested donation of $10. For details and tickets see - https://www.conferencehouse.org/
Sunday, September 7, 2025 from 11 am to 3 pm - Circumnavigation of Staten Island Boat Tour. The boat tour includes a discussion of maritime history, boat views of eight lighthouses, a ships graveyard, the Fresh Kills garbage dump which is now a park and the passing under the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge. For more information and $65 / $45 tickets see url below. At 200 The Promenade in the St. George neighborhood of Staten Island. For details see - https://lighthousemuseum.org/
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - Midland, New Dorp & Ocean Breeze Beaches along the east coast of Staten Island. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
Conference House Celebration - coming later today
MCAL _ MEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR. Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Staten Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Staten Island Events - Member Events to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups. This month includes TBD.
Have a nice weekend.
Updated 8.29.25 v. August 28, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 6.18 am. Sunset 7.35 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 13 hours & 17 minutes of daylight or one hour and 49 minutes less of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Summer Solstice, on June 20, 2025. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of this year, providing 15 hours and 6 minutes of sunlight in NYC.
The photo at right was taken in Central Park on the Great Lawn in a prior year. As the weather looks to be welcoming, getting a bit of fresh air and rays from the waning sun isn't a bad way to spend a few hours on a three day weekend.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. The temperature highs will be in the high 70's, and the temperature lows in the low to mid 60's for all three days of the long weekend. There's a tiny, tiny chance of a tiny, tiny amount of rain Friday afternoon [aka 0% & 0 inches as far as we're concerned], and then dry the rest of the long weekend. The humidity will also be dry, ranging from 60% on Friday, to 50% on Saturday and Sunday, and then back up to 60% on Monday. Winds will range from 5 - 10 mph all weekend.
Friday Evening Edition @ 10.30 pm. Just need to update the Brooklyn West Indian Parade and Carnival events in Brooklyn, which go on all three days and which we should have done by midday Saturday. Looks like the last summer weekend is going to be a good one. Enjoy.
Friday, August 22 to Monday, September 1, 2025 beginning at either 7.30 or 8 pm - Metropolitan Opera HD Festival - at the mall / fountain at Lincoln Center located along Columbus Avenue between 64th and 66th Street on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. These are FREE summer outdoor concerts at Lincoln Center on the Upper West Side of Manhattan NYC. For details of the full schedule see - https://www.metopera.org/about/press-releases/the-metropolitan-operas-summer-hd-festival-returns-to-lincoln-center-plaza-with-11-free-screenings-august-22september-1/
The photo above or at right was taken in a prior year at the Lincoln Center HD Opera Festival. The festival is free, open to the public and is based on first come first serve seating. It's a nice way to spend some time.
Thursday, August 28 to Saturday, September 6, 2025 beginning at 8 pm [excluding Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9/1, 2 & 3] - 12th Night Shakespeare in the Park - at Delacorte Theater in Central Park. For tickets and details [also free tickets on day of] see - https://publictheater.org/productions/season/2425/fsitp/twelfth-night/
Sunday, August 31, 2025 from 10 am - 6 pm - 40th Annual Brazilian Day Festival - Along 6th Avenue from 42nd to 56th Streets. Manhattan street fairs.
Note that next weekend is jam packed with events as the Summer ends and the Fall Season kicks in.
Also a number of upcoming street festivals - see link below.
Gramercy Theater concerts - info coming but in the meantime - https://www.thegramercytheatre.com/shows
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - see other boroughs.
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS - Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Manhattan Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Manhattan Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
Mondays in August & September, Democracy Vigil Meeting. See MCAL link above for details.
Wednesdays & Saturdays - The Outlaws Who Built NYC Tours. See MCAL link above for details.
August 30, 2025 - PureFinder Tour of Psychic New York. See MCAL link above for details.
Monday through Saturday, August 24 to September 7, 2025 daily beginning at 11 am - the U.S. Open Tennis Tournament at Arthur Ashe Stadium in the USTA Complex - in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. They sell grounds passes for $28 - $64 and tournament tickets from $500 - $2,200. For details and tickets see - https://www.usopen.org/
In the photo above or at right, you can see the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, from the inside the USTA Billie Jean Tennis Center, where the U.S. Open is being held. The final match is on Sunday, September 7, 2025.
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, August 29, 30 & 31, 2025 beginning at 5 pm, 4 pm and 4 pm respectively - The Rockaway Beach Music Series - at the Rockway Bazaar Beach Pavilion at 9701 Shorefront Parkway and 97th Street by the beach in the Rockaways in Queens. A whole weekend of music near the beach. In 2023 they held a festival over the Labor Day Weekend that was one of the biggest Labor Day weekend events in Queens. This year, while the Music Festival isn't returning per se, they're continuing with the Rockaway Beach Music Series concerts, but haven't told us anything about Monday. Free. For details see - https://www.rockaway-bazaar.com/
FYI - the Oracabessa Festival, which is generally held in Roy Wilkins Park, looks like it will NOT be returning this summer.
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - The Rockaways. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
Note that next weekend is jam packed with events as the Summer ends and the Fall Season kicks in.
In Two Weeks. Saturday, September 13, 2025 from 2 to 3 pm, 5 to 6 pm & 7 to 8 pm - Queens Boro Dance Festival. at the Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Flushing. The performances cap the all summer long dance festival with performances in numerous locations across the borough. For details and to rsvp $29 tickets see - https://queensborodancefestival.org
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS - Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Queens Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Queens Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups. This month includes
Tuesdays & Thursdays in July & August beginning at 9.15 am and 11 am both days - Nature for Young Kids - at Alley Pond Environmental Center. For Adult with child ages 2 - 3 years old. See MCal link above for details and tickets which run $88 for adult / child for four weeks in July & $66 for three weeks in August.
The Hell Gate Walking Tour returns for the first three Sundays in September 2025. See MCAL link above for details.
Saturday & Sunday, August 30 & 31, 2025 beginning at 2 & 4 pm - Barge Music Concerts - at the Boathouse in Brooklyn Bridge Park at 10 Montague Street on Pier 5. For details see - https://gogreenbk.org/event/bargemusic-2025/2025-08-30/
Fridays, June 20 - September 5, 2025 _ Weekly _ The Coney Island Weekly Friday Night Fireworks - at Steeple Chase Tower off the Boardwalk near Luna Park [see fireworks link that follows for details]. Including July 4th. For details, copy & paste - https://www.allianceforconeyisland.org
WE NEED TO UPDATE THE 2025 WIADC COMING BY SATURDAY, 8.30.25 MIDDAY.
The photo above or at right was taken in a prior year at the West Indian American Day Carnival and Parade. In addition to the parade there are all kinds of food stalls and outdoor shops selling Caribbean related food, clothing and other items.
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - Coney Island. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
Note that next weekend is jam packed with events as the Summer ends and the Fall Season kicks in.
Two Plays - Polonsky & Billie Holiday Theater.
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS. Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Brooklyn BLVD New Member Sign Up. Click this link Brooklyn MCAL - Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
September 4, 2025 at 7 pm - Spectrum: A Multidisciplinary Gallery & Reading - see MCAL link above for details.
Saturday, August 30, 2025 from 12 noon to 7 pm - Bronx Night Market - see street fairs page for details.
Hunts Point _ Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays, August 1 - 31, 2025 from 2 to 6 pm Thurs & 12 noon to 5 pm Fri & Sat - Latin Foto Festival - at the Bronx Art Space at 700 Manida Street off Spofford Avenue in the Hunts Point neighborhood of the Bronx. There's an outdoor art space that is part of the exhibit which is open 24/7. Free. For details see - http://www.bronxartspace.com
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - Orchard Beach in Pelham Bay Park. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
The photo above or at right shows folks relaxing at Orchard Beach in the Bronx. There's only one more week of beach side swimming left in the year.
The first weekend of September there's Ferragosto in Bronx Little Italy. The second weekend of September there's the the Central American Independence Parade and Festival in Crotona Park and the City Island Art Fair among other upcoming events in the Bronx. Details coming next week or see the parades & festivals or the street fairs pages links below.
Next two weeks - Ferragosto in Bronx Little Italy, City Island Art Fair & Central American Independence Parade in Crotona Park.
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS. Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Bronx Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Bronx MCAL Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
September 27 & 28, 2025 - the Bartow Bricante Flea Market - see MCAL link above for details.
Historic Richmond Town _ Saturday, Sunday & Monday, August 30, 31 & September 1, 2025 from 12 noon - 8 pm. Richmond County Fair - At Historic Richmond Town at 441 Clarke Avenue. Food, music, carnival, crafts, living history, entertainment & shopping for families and folks of all ages. Admission $7 kids / $12 seniors / $15 adults & kids age 5 and under are free. Staten Island street fairs / festivals in Historic Richmond Town. One of the biggest events on Staten Island. For details see - https://www.historicrichmondtown.org
In the photo above or at right was taken last year at the County Fair in Historic Richmond Town. It's an old fashioned county fair, in an historic setting, albeit without the livestock. There are plenty of food and market vendors to round out the holiday for the kids and family.
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - Sunday, September 7, 2025 - NYC Beaches Opening & Closing for the Summer - Midland, New Dorp & Ocean Breeze Beaches along the east coast of Staten Island. Also outdoor public swim pools also close on Sunday, September 7th.
Monday, September 1, 2025 from 4 - 5.30 pm - The SI Philharmonic performs 'The British are Coming' - at the Conference House at 7455 Hylan Blvd in Tottenville on Staten Island. FREE. This is an annual celebratory concert. For details see - https://www.instagram.com/p/DN4LobOjt9f/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=195e60a1-3494-437f-b82c-10234f856c14 or the Conference House - https://conferencehouse.org
MCAL _ MEMBER EVENTS CALENDAR. Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Staten Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Staten Island Events - Member Events to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups. This month includes TBD.
Have a nice weekend.
Click here for things to do Labor Day Weekend in Manhattan
August 29, 2025 / Things To Do NYC / Brooklyn Blvd NYC.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. The temperature highs will be in the high 70's, and the temperature lows in the low to mid 60's for all three days of the long weekend. There's a tiny, tiny chance of a tiny, tiny amount of rain Friday afternoon [aka 0% & 0 inches as far as we're concerned], and then dry the rest of the long weekend. The humidity will also be dry, ranging from 60% on Friday, to 50% on Saturday and Sunday, and then back up to 60% on Monday. Winds will range from 5 - 10 mph all weekend.
Sunrise 6.18 am. Sunset 7.35 pm. Daylight Savings Time.
In the photo at right you can see a street fair held in the Bensonhurst neighborhood of Brooklyn.
Be sure to check the front page for our Friday Weekend Post of things to do Labor Day Weekend in Brooklyn NYC.
One of the biggest events of the Labor Day Weekend in Brooklyn is the West Indian American Day Parade and Carnival. There are numerous events related to the parade going on all weekend. On Monday, September 1, 2025 the parade begins at 11 am along the Eastern Parkway departing from Schenectady Avenue and marching down to Grand Army Plaza near the Brooklyn Museum. From 10 am - 6 pm you'll also find food stalls and shopping along the parade route along Eastern Parkway in the Crown Heights neighborhood of Brooklyn. For details see - https://wiadcacarnival.org/index.html
This weekend you can go bicycling in Brooklyn, play soccer & other games in Brooklyn parks, go shopping Brooklyn, attend Brooklyn parades, watch theater, visit the Brooklyn art museums, and eat out at one of the Brooklyn restaurants.
And it's all happening right here in our favorite borough - Brooklyn. So take your time to sort through the days and locations and start planning your weekend. Click here to obtain information about things to do Labor Day Weekend in Brooklyn. This events calendar is updated monthly with dozens of different Brooklyn fun cultural events.
Brooklyn has one of number of public parks, of which a few include swimming facilities. Click here for a listing of the Brooklyn Parks including maps showing their locations along with a bit of park history. This is coming at a later date.
Brooklyn has two golf courses and both of them are open this weekend. There's the Dyker Beach Golf Course in the Dyker Heights neighborhood in the southern end of Brooklyn, and there's the Marine Park Golf Course in the Marine Park neighborhood with is at the southeastern end of Brooklyn.
Click here for details about Brooklyn golf courses including maps and links to the operators' websites. The links are coming at a later date.
August 22, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 6.13 am. Sunset 7.43 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 13 hours & 30 minutes of daylight or one hour and 36 minutes less of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Summer Solstice, on June 20, 2025. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of this year, providing 15 hours and 6 minutes of sunlight in NYC.
The photo at right was taken at the Charlie Parker Jazz Fest in the East Village in a prior year. The festival returned this week / weekend with performances in West Harlem and the East Village. See details in the Manhattan section below.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. Weekend weather is coming later this afternoon.
Friday Mid Late Afternoon Edition @ 4.45 pm. Probably done, but will tweak the Adams corruption story below a bit more. Looks to be another great summer weekend. Have a good one.
August 22, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / Crime in NYC / NYC Government & Politics / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Separately, after three and a half years of 'getting stuff done' for billionaires and real estate developers, Adams has finally focused his attention on the working class voters of New York, handing out government money, in a manner that leads me to believe he thinks the public money is his own.
"Show Me The Money" Eric Adams famously used to say. We should have listened. Adams can't seem to shake all of the corruption allegations that surround him, the members of his administration and the Administration itself. Allegations of bribes, numerous staff indictments, including of Eric Adams who is the first sitting NYC Mayor to be indicted in office.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams sent a letter to the Mayor this week, questioning his management of the oversight of the NYPD. Adams has employed Trump-style tactics in dismantling the checks and balances in the system that have kept American government relatively corruption-free in modern times. Editor's Note. NYC government is far from clean, as you can see by how all of the publicly owned / controlled real estate is transferred, 'legally', to billionaires [and or their real estate companies] who are friends of or have funded two of the last three mayors' campaigns. For further details see - Stephen Ross and Related Companies have been feeding at the public trough.
We'll have more about Adams and the NYPD later. But in the meantime - For details see - https://comptroller.nyc.gov/reports/letter-to-mayor-adams-re-urgent-concerns-regarding-oig-nypd-staffing-and-oversight-capacity/
In a lawsuit filed July 16, 2025, a former NYPD Commissioner, Thomas Donlon, accused Adams of operating the NYPD as if it was a "criminal enterprise". More to follow.
September 1, 2024 / NYC Neighborhoods / Brooklyn Parades & Festivals / Brooklyn BLVD NYC.
Be sure to view our Brooklyn Parades page for time, date & parade router information on J'ouvert and the West Indian American Day Parade 2024 in NYC.
On a sultry Labor Day Monday morning, I set out for the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Prospect Lefferts Gardens and Crown Heights. The former, covers some of the area in Brooklyn known as Little Caribbean and it was to be the ending point for the Jouvert parade, which serves as the warm up for the larger West Indian American Day Parade.
Be advised that I was not aware of this distinction - two parades by the same group on the same day - until I had arrived and started making inquiries about when and where the actions was.
The Jouvert puportedly started at 11 am inside Prospect Park either at the entrance to the Kids Zoo [still not certain about this, but I'm getting closer to being precise] on Flatbush Avenue or based on a map I saw on the NYPD website, the Jouvert started at Grand Army Plaza, at the north end of Prospect Park. I'll be following up on this, and make the changes here when I get them.
The photo above right was taken at the West Indian American Day Parade in Brooklyn on Labor Day. Many different island cultures celebrate the carnival in unison. The flag in the lower right corner of the photo is Jamaican.
The Jouvert then marched east along Empire Boulevard before turning south on Nostrand Avenue and terminating at Winthrop. I arrived a bit before noon, at Empire Blvd and Nostrand, where the Jouvert Parade had already passed. The Jouvert Parade involves participants adorning themselves with paint and powder, sometimes sharing it with others in a style that reminded me of the Indian Holi celebration.
Speaking of Indians, the West Indies got their name after Columbus discovered them for the Spanish throne. They were called the West Indies, in order to differentiate them from the East Indies, with which the Portuguese had opened up trading routes in the 15th century just prior to Columbus's discovery. The East Indies comprises the islands that lie south of India, the Bay of Bengal and the South China Sea and north and west of Australia.
CLICK here to read the rest of our report about the West Indian American Day Parade in Brooklyn over the Labor Day Weekend.
August 15, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 6.06 am. Sunset 7.53 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 13 hours & 47 minutes of daylight or one hour and 19 minutes less of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Summer Solstice, on June 20, 2025. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of this year, providing 15 hours and 6 minutes of sunlight in NYC.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. No precipitation is in the forecast. The high temperatures will be in the high 80's and the low temperatures will be in the low to mid 70's. Winds will range from 5 - 10 mph all weekend. And the humidity will range from about 80% Saturday to the mid 90% on Sunday.
The photo at right was taken last year at the opening of the Battery Park Dance Festival, which runs this weekend. It's well worth the visit and its free.
Friday Mid Afternoon Edition @ 3.45 pm. Pretty much done. Looks to be another great summer weekend. Have a good one.
Tuesday, August 19, 2025 beginning at 6.30 pm - Manhattan CB 4 Meeting - Find out what's going on with NYC owned property that appears Eric Adams is giving away. Attend via Zoom or in person. For details and to rsvp click here - FEC Chelsea NYCHA Demoliton Project. The train is departing the station, so there's little time to waste. Here's some related information we reported about this same subject [generally] a number of years ago - Bloomberg Mayoralty property give aways to Stephen Ross & Related Companies.
August 15, 2025 / NYC Business & Economy / NYC Politics & Government / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
It Looks Like We May be Heading for a Stagflation Economy. According to 8.15.25 Yahoo Finance report, wholesale prices rose faster than expectations, up 0.9% in July, far faster than expectations. The core rate grew 3.7% vs an expected 3%. The Fed target rate is 2%. Services, not goods, were the driving force behind the inflation increase, and services are not tied to tariffs. We might be heading into a stagflation economy, where inflation continues or picks up, while jobs growth slows, as happened this month.
The contributors to a staglationary economy include that the U.S. dollar has lost 10% of its value since the beginning of the year. This means everything purchased outside of the U.S. will essentially cost 10% more to Americans. And tariffs will eventually add further to the inflation problem by increasing the cost of goods further.
TV News doesn't seem to understand that there's a lag time between when changes in the economy occur [like tariffs or currency valuation changes], and when the impact of them shows up at the cash register. Macroeconomic lag times range from three to eighteen months as these changes work their way through the economy. And speaking of TV News, it's worth mentioning that a stagflationary economy would be just the opposite of the 'Trump Economy' touted by Fox News during the Fall 2024 campaign cycle. For details see - https://finance.yahoo.com/news/why-hotter-than-expected-wholesale-prices-make-the-feds-september-rate-cut-decision-harder-155711746.html
Is Eric Adams Recycling Faith Based Campaign Endorsements? About a week ago, Eric Adams announced that he was being endorsed by 100 faith based leaders. The endorsements appeared to come from some of the same people who've been supporting Adams all along, some of whom I've seen at various mayoral events, and some of whom I believe stood with him when he announced his re-election bid as an Independent in June of 2025.
Earlier this week Adams also picked up an endorsement from former NYS Democrat Governor Paterson, who is legally blind, and who switched his allegiance from Cuomo in the Democratic primary, to Adams running as an Independent.
A group of police unions also endorsed Adams this week, but notably missing was the largest NYC police union, the NYPBA. The NYPBA had previously endorsed Adams in the 2021 election, reportedly unenthusiastically. This may be why the NYPBA is holding back their endorsement again, or it could be that the NY Patrolmens Benevolent Association union is not happy that Adams has sullied the name of the NYPD, having been charged in a lawsuit with turning the NYPD into his own personal "racketeering enterprise".
August 8, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 5.59 am. Sunset 8.02 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 14 hours & 3 minutes of daylight or one hour and three minutes less of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Summer Solstice, on June 20, 2025. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of this year, providing 15 hours and 6 minutes of sunlight in NYC.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. No precipitation is in the forecast for the weekend. The temperature highs will be in the low to mid 80's all weekend. The temperature lows will be in the high 60's all weekend. The winds will range between 3 - 8 mph all weekend. The humidity will range from 50% - 65% all weekend. Seems to be a pleasant repeat of last weekend.
In the photo above or at right is a dragon meandering through the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival grouns in Flushing Queens. The festival returns this weekend.
August 1, 2025 / NYC Politics & Government / NYC Social Issues / Gotham Buzz NYC.
News Analysis, Opinion & Insight. This story is not likely to show up on your TV screen in a timely fashion, because real news stories and real news insights rarely do. And too often, by the time they do, it's far too late to make a difference.
This is the trailer to a recent film that came out regarding landlord harassment in NYC, as well as about black and brown homeowner deed theft - neither of which Eric Adams appears to have done much about, during his nearly four years in office as NYC Mayor - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuuBlQJh86M
If you find the trailer interesting enough, you can watch the full one hour and 22 minute long film on PBS until 8.26.25 - at which time it expires. Viewing the film now is free, but it is preceded by two short PBS promos before the film begins - https://www.pbs.org/video/slumlord-millionaire-3sgi7g/
Eric Adams claims to be a pro housing Mayor. It is true that he's been very supportive of housing projects by billionaires and international investors. But Adams has not advocated much - if at all [eg. the Rent Guidelines Board rent increases during his one term in office] - for tenants. And he's not been a champion of the black and brown people to whom he tells what now seems his phony personal housing insecurity story. You know, the one about him bringing his clothes to school as a child for fear of eviction. This story wouldn't be the first nor the only lie he has publicly told New Yorkers. And Adams appears to be helping multi-billionaire real estate developer Stephen Ross move FEC NYCHA tenants out of their homes, so that Ross can grab even more NYC land than he already has.
But don't take my word for it.
July 25, 2025 / NYC Politics & Government / NYC Social Issues / Gotham Buzz NYC.
News Analysis & Opinion.
Meanwhile former NYPD Captain, Mayor Eric Adams, was hit with yet another set of corruption charges in court, this time alleging that Adams had turned NYPD operations into a criminal enterprise. See graphic above or at right.
We'll provide details sometime later, but in the meantime, take a look for yourself at what kind of a 'law and order' Mayor Adams is - https://www.thecity.nyc/2025/07/16/nypd-donlon-lawsuit-adams-racketeering/
NYC mayoral candidate, Zohran Mamdani, has secured the backing of a number of large NYC unions support, beating out former Governor Cuomo for unions that had previously supported him.
We'll provide details sometime later, but in the meantime here's a video Mamdani did, taking a pre-emptive shot mocking the adolescently edited NY Post, instead of the other way around https://www.facebook.com/reel/1066919915568285
July 18, 2025 / U.S. Politics & Government / NYC Social Issues / Gotham Buzz NYC.
News Analysis & Opinion. There was a time when Republicans used to claim they were the party of 'Family Values'. They took umbrage at some of the amorality espoused on network TV, berated single mothers, women who opted for abortions, government officials' sex scandals, dishonesty and pornography. They said they were the party of responsibility, kindness and love. But today, it seems that Republicans have done a 180 on almost everything they once stood for, including fiscal conservatism.
Recently Republicans looked the other way, as their party for the fourth time in the past 45 years, passed a tax cut for the wealthiest people on the planet. And funded it by putting their children, grandchildren and unborn heirs on the hook to pay it. Is giving rich people government money the nation doesn't have responsible? Is dumping huge amounts of debt on your children and their children [and beyond] responsible?
As you can see by reading the graphic above or at right, one of the alleged mobsters who used to visit Trump's casino in New Jersey wouldn't let Trump near his daughter because he likely knew the kind of person Trump was.
As for kindness and supporting families, we need to ask whether they think that pulling food assistance and healthcare support from poor families, to partially fund the cost of the uber rich tax cut, is going to help families stay together, or uplift them? Or step on them and keep them from having a chance at "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness"?
And then there's the Epstein files. Jeffrey Epstein described Donald Trump as one of his "best friends" for decades. Epstein's townhouse, where some of the alleged under age girls parties were held, is only a stone's throw from Trump Tower. Trump was photographed and video recorded numerous different times with his longtime associate Jeffrey Epstein at all kinds of parties [see photos]. Epstein bought a mansion in the Mara Lago neighborhood, where Epstein allegedly threw under age girls pool parties that Donald Trump has been rumored to have attended.
Is it really such a stretch to think that Donald Trump, owner of the Miss America pageant, who apparently felt entitled to walk into the contestants' dressing rooms unannounced, wouldn't cross the line to have sex with underage girls? Trump was also sued numerous times regarding various improprieties with varying outcomes. Keep in mind that Donald Trump is a master manipulator of our legal system, among other things.
July 4, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / U.S. Politics Media & Government / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
On July 4, 2025, Donald Trump signed the cynically named, Big Beautiful Bill, into law. After reviewing its contents, I felt compelled to make a few remarks.
The image above or at right shows a photo of the second Trump tax cut signing on the July 4th holiday. Both Republican Vice President J.D. Vance and Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune are missing.
In the photo we posted below of the Trump's first term tax cut photo, Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan and VP Mike Pence were all present. As you can see for yourself, this time around, two of the three leaders - albeit different Republicans - were not present.
Nonetheless, one thing that hasn't changed is that all of the Republicans in the photo are still LAUGHING AT YOU, not with you. They got preferential tax rates and will continue receiving campaign funding from billionaires to keep their jobs, while you, your children, your grandchildren, great grandchildren and so forth all got scr*wed.
This is literally taking money [$3 - $5 TRILLION TO BE EXACT] from BABIES. What kind of parents and grandparents allow this to happen? And what kind of cowards engineer these big steals? STOP THIS STEAL, WHY DON'T YOU?
July 4, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 5.296 am. Sunset 8.301 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 15 hours & 1 minutes of daylight or five minutes less of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Summer Solstice, on June 20, 2025. The Summer Solstice is the longest day of this year, providing 15 hours and 6 minutes of sunlight in NYC.
The photo above or at right was taken a few years ago, of folks lined up along the East River waterfront in Queens, on a warm summer day, waiting in anticipation of ... This year Queens won't have a front row seat to the Macy's 4th of July fireworks as they are being staged at the south end of the East River, so folks will have to travel to Brooklyn and Manhattan for the front row seats. In prior years some of the fireworks barges were staged around Midtown, whereas this year none will be positioned north of the Brooklyn Bridge. That said, they're trying something new this year, as two launch areas are being positioned atop the Brooklyn Bridge - one at each tower. The height of these two launch areas may make remote viewing more accessible from longer distances.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. The temperature highs will be in the mid to high 80's Friday and Saturday, while the temperature lows will be around 70 for those two days. The Sunday high will be about 90 and the low in the mid to high 70's. No rain is in the forecast for NYC this weekend. The winds will be about 3 - 8 mph Friday and Saturday, rising to 5 - 10 mph on Sunday. The humidity will range from 50% - 65% in what appears to be a relatively stable three days, although rising slightly each day. So, all tolled, the weekend looks to be pretty fine.
Friday Early AM Edition @ 3 am. Friday July 4th events are mostly done. We may have one or two additions by about lunchtime. And by the end of Friday will have the whole weekend posted. Have a Happy 4th of July weekend.
NYC Beaches and Public Outdoor Swim Pools are Open for the Summer.
CLICK here to see NYC 4th of July Fireworks all 5 Boroughs.
Macy's 4th of July Fireworks begin at 9.35 in the East River & atop the Brooklyn Bridge. For details use our link below which contains maps and explanations of viewing and restrictions and / or see - https://www.macysinc.com/newsroom/news/news-details/2025/Macys-4th-of-July-Fireworks-Show-Live-From-the-Brooklyn-Bridge-and-the-East-River-With-Sparkling-Displays-and-Electrifying-Musical-Performances/default.aspx
CLICK to see Manhattan 4th of July fireworks 2025 best viewing locations & Macy's July 4th Fireworks NYC
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS - Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Manhattan Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Manhattan Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
July 4, 2025 / Brooklyn Neighborhoods / July 4th Holiday in Brooklyn / Brooklyn Blvd NYC.
NYC Weather Friday & Saturday, July 4 & 5, 2025. The temperature highs will be in the mid to high 80's each day, while the temperature lows will be around 70 each day. No rain is in the forecast for NYC during this time period. The winds will be about 3 - 8 mph both days. The humidity will range from 50% - 65% in what appears to be a relatively stable couple of days, during which fireworks will be launched throughout the NYC area. Both days look pretty fine.
NYC Weather Update as of 6.24.25 for Early Fireworks Displays in the Bronx and Queens on Thursday June 26, 2025. The temperature highs will be in the high 90's on Thursday, descending to about 80 by midday and down to 70 in the late evening. The humidity will be in the 70% range for most of the day. No rain is expected and winds will be in the 10 mph range. Not too bad for a July 4th fireworks display, although the winds might make it challenging for the pyrotechnicians.
Air Quality. As of 7.4.25 the air quality is Moderate, as well as for Friday & Saturday, although rising going into the weekend. To stay abreast of the air quality in NYC copy and paste this link into your browswer bar - https://www.airnow.gov
All of these fireworks displays are FREE except the one at Fort Hamilton near Bay Ridge [$5].
The Macy's 4th of July fireworks will be shown along the East River this year. They have been shown along the East River from 2014 - 2023, and they were shown along the Hudson from 2009 - 2013 and again last year [2024]. Mayor de Blasio had lobbied to have the fireworks return to the East River while he was Mayor.
The Grucci Brothers have been doing the Macy's 4th of July fireworks in NYC, for decades, and it is believed since the inception of the event in 1976. But this year the fireworks will be done by a California company by the name of Pyro Spectaculars, who have assisted the Grucci Brothers on prior engagements.
The following page contains between a half dozen and dozen different 4th of July fireworks celebrations in the five boroughs of NYC, including best viewing locations in Brooklyn for the Macy's 4th of July fireworks along the East River, Coney Island fireworks and the Fort Hamilton fireworks in Bay Ridge.
June 22, 2025 / Brooklyn Neighborhoods / Brooklyn Swimming Pools, Parks & Sports / Brooklyn BLVD NYC.
Brooklyn offers easy access to a wide range of recreational swimming pools. The following is an attempt to provide you with a view of the range of public swimming pools available in the parks of Brooklyn. We encourage you to make use of these facilities because they provide healthy, fun, and frequently free or inexpensive entertainment for both individuals and families with children.
Outdoor public pools will open beginning Friday June 27th, 2025. Indoor pools are open year round unless there are construction or improvement projects going on.
Generally pool hours are from 11 am - 7 pm daily, with a one hour break between 3 and 4 pm for cleaning. Bring a padlock for your locker and proper swimming trunks are required [for boys this means not shorts as trunks must have liners]. Don't bring food, glass bottles, newspapers, electronics, floaters and no or as few valuables as you can bring to minimize your risk because the park isn't responsible for your losses. Free sunscreen will be made available while supplies last.
As of this posting 6.22.25, masks are NOT required for indoor activity including in the locker rooms. This ended in 2023, but it's always prudent to stay tuned, and although unlikely, it's always possible that could change.
Click here to view a listing of Brooklyn outdoor swimming pools, free public swimming pools in Brooklyn in the neighborhoods of BK. Please note the photos do not reflect the onsite pools as of this post 6.22.25.
Jul 14, 2025 at 12:15 am by PeterParker
Update July 1, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Politics Media & Government / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Mamdani wins Ranked Choice Voting - Prior to the Final Counting with All Mail in Ballots. The current tabulations show that Mamdani widened his lead to [545,334 or 56%] over Cuomo [428,530 or 44%] in the ranked choice round.
While there are still some mail in ballots to be counted, it is believed that the bulk of the mail in ballots have been included in the count. In the 2021 NYC Mayoral Race [general] there were in the neighborhood of 125,000 - 132,000 mail in ballots.
The graphic above or at right shows the NYC Board of Election vote counts for the June 2025 NYC Mayoral Race following the first and subsequent rounds of ranked choice voting. All of the mail in ballots have not yet been included in the counts.
See related story, for an evolving view of the general election for NYC Mayor, with Eric Adams attacking Mamdani using Murdoch NY Post style labels and little substance.
June 27, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Politics Media & Government / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Mamdani Decisively Wins First Round of Ranked Choice. Zohran Mamdani [432,000 1st place votes] spooked the billionaires and real estate folks, who funded Andrew Cuomo's [362,000 votes] and Eric Adams' [0 votes as no longer running as a Democrat] campaigns. A number of them profited immensely from dealings with both Cuomo and Adams while in office, but particularly during the Adams Administration's, 'getting stuff done' for them. Contrary to what Adams proclaims, he's been 'getting stuff done' for the billionaires - not the working classes - as a brief look at his record below demonstrates. Also see Zoom Call below noting ongoing Adams transference of great public wealth to one of his campaign funders, Stephen Ross of Related Companies [among others], via transference of control of FEC Chelsea NYCHA.
In the graphic above or at right we've depicted Eric Adams as we see him today, in a money suit, which is what he's really all about. We just didn't know it four years ago. Adams never really had a vision for NYC, and wasn't really committed to anything for the working classes, unless it was something that would enable him to self promote or enrich himself. There's a reason billionaires are funding Eric Adams' campaign. And it's not because of how he looks, but rather because of his actions on their behalf. Follow the guy in the money suit and pay attention where he has it laundered, as the Feds did before the Trump pardon.
Billionaire Funded Fake News & Ads Coming to a TV near You. During the rest of this campaign, you can expect distorted billionaire TV News coverage generally, but particularly from Rupert Murdoch's Fox News, and also from Murdoch's NY Post and Wall Street Journal. They will find different ways to directly or indirectly attack, discredit or undermine Mamdani, using unsupported allegations, rumors and innuendo. Mamdani, like AOC, seems authentic in his desire to help the working classes / families - and not the billionaires - as Eric Adams has done. And should Mamdani win, the Murdoch Ministry of Mass Manipulation will continue to provide distorted reporting, reflecting their master's voice, as they pretty much do every day.
Adams Appears to be Working with and for Republicans. Following the announcement of the first round of ranked choice voting results, Adams re-announced his candidacy as an 'Independent'. But Adams isn't really independent. In fact he seems very 'Dependent' on his uncle Donald Trump, who pardoned Adams for his alleged crimes. Adams looks to be a Republican party proxy pol, who they will use to siphon votes away from Democrat Mamdani.
Cuomo Decides to Continue his Run on the 'Fight & Deliver' Ballot Line. We just learned that Andrew Cuomo has officially decided to stay in the race, as he did not withdraw his name from the 'Fight & Deliver' ballot line. Like Adams, Cuomo is also a 'Dependent' on the billionaires who fund his campaigns, and for whom he appears to 'fight and deliver', not unlike how Adams 'gets stuff done'.
June 20, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Politics Media & Government / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
A Word about Billionaire Michael Bloomberg Trying to Impose his Well Funded Will on the NYC Mayoral Race. Former Mayor Bloomberg and Big Real Estate have been spending millions of dollars on TV attack ads targeting NYC Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani. The ads are filled with accusations about things Mamdani may have said, but nothing nothing he has ever acted upon in support of alleged statements.
The billionaires want Andrew Cuomo to win, because Cuomo is 'their guy' who will keep a lid on public spending on transit, education, police, sanitation, the arts and infrastructure, so that NYC billionaires can keep a lid on tax rates and keep more money they don't need, for themselves. The billionaire funded pols, like Cuomo and Adams, will try to keep a lid on public spending so that they can keep giving the super rich lavish tax breaks on their real estate investments in NYC 'affordable housing' ... that's 'affordable' to those making $100,000 plus.
CLICK here to read the rest of our report on the part of Andrew Cuomo's Record as Governor that they don't want you to think about.
June 13, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Politics Media & Government / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
On Friday, the top two NYC Mayoral contenders to Andrew Cuomo - Zohran Mamdani and Brad Lander - cross endorsed each other for Mayor. This should help both of them as contenders and according to one pundit, reduces Cuomo's sure lock on the Mayoralty from 80% down to 60%. Which means Mamdani and Lander need to reach out to other NYC Mayoral candidates who realistically are no longer contenders, like Zellnor Myrie, Michael Blake, Jessica Ramos, and Jim Walden [running as an anti-corruption Independent] to increase their odds, while detracting from Cuomo's.
The photos above or at right were taken earlier this year at two different debates. On the left is NYC Comptroller Brad Lander and on the right is NYS Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani - the top two contenders for NYC Mayor following Andrew Cuomo. On Friday they cross endorsed each other, which will likely lead to increased TV ad spending by big real estate on their also-ran, straw horse candidates [see below]; as well as increased TV ad spending for attack ads trying to discredit real challengers to big real estate's choice for Mayor - Andrew Cuomo. Most TV political ads are such distortions of the truth, that they seem to be more fake news than informative.
Please do your homework on the candidates, using some of the high quality information sources below, to move up the learning curve on who the candidates are and who's funding them. TV News doesn't cut it any more, as it's controlled by billionaires. A long while ago, they rolled back FCC regulations requiring fair and balanced reporting, which is why what TV News presents today, is no longer consistently credible.
CLICK here to read the rest of our report on Mamdani & Lander cross endorse in NYC Mayoral Race 2025.
June 6, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 5.26 am. Sunset 8.23 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 15 hours & 5 minutes of daylight or five hours and 25 more minutes of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Winter Solstice, on December 21, 2024, which was the shortest day of last year [2024] at 9 hours and 15 minutes of daylight. Spring began Thursday, March 20, 2025, which is also the Spring Equinox, when the day is 12 hours long - half daylight and half dark. The Summer Solstice is coming June 20, 2025 which will be the longest day of this year.
The photo above or at right was taken a couple of weeks ago in Hells Kitchen, showing a number of air conditioning units geometrically protruding from the sleek wall of a glass and steel skyscraper. Those are likely to come in very handy in the coming months.
NYC Specific Weather - This can be very Different vs TV News Area Weather. Friday is dry but cloudy. Saturday, there's a 30% - 50% chance for a third inch of rain between 8 am and 5 pm. It's the kind of day where an umbrella might (or might not), come in handy. Sunday, there's a 30% - 60% chance of half that amount of rain - but after 7 pm. Temperature highs may hit 90 Friday, falling back to about 80 on Saturday and Sunday. Temperature lows will straddle the high 60's to the low 70's all weekend. The humidity will range from 60% to 80% on both Friday and Sunday, and remain at a steady 70% on Saturday. Winds will range from 5 to 10 mph all weekend. It's definitely a manageable weekend weather-wise - contrary to the billionaire TV News efforts to convince you to stay inside watching TV.
Friday Evening Edition @ 11 pm. Mostly done - if not completely done. it's always possible there might be late additions.
Saturday, May 24, 2025 - NYC Beaches Open for the Summer.
Saturday, June 14, 2025 is the Deadline to Register to Vote in the NYC Primary on June 24th. Applications must be received by the NY Board of Elections to be eligible to vote in this election. As it's a Saturday, we recommend you make sure they get it by Friday, June 13, 2025. The winner of the Democratic primary is almost always the person who becomes Mayor [Giuliani and Bloomberg were exceptions because of Rupert Murdoch's NY Post & Fox News manipulations & Bloomberg's $$$], as 56% of NYC voters identify as Democrat, and about 26% identify as Republican [other sources say these numbers are 48% & 21% respectively].
Friday, June 6, 2025 in Washington, D.C. - 50501Movement.org Veteran Budget Cuts Protest - at the Mall in Washington, D.C. to protest the Trump / Musk budget cuts affecting U.S. Veterans. For details see - https://www.facebook.com/groups/50501movement/posts/1037489384655057/ | or 50501vets.com
Saturday, June 14, 2025 at various times & locations - No Kings Protest - Nationwide protests against the Trump Administration efforts to take federally funded benefits and services from lower, middle and upper middle income Americans, and transfer it to the richest people on the planet, by enabling them to pay lower tax rates funded by cuts and adding another $2 - $4 trillion in debt on America's children. That would boost America's debt for which Trump would personally be responsible for nearly a third of it, and possibly more. For more information about this, see - https://indivisible.org/statements/indivisible-and-partners-announce-no-kings-nationwide-day-defiance-flag-day-during - and for details of related events happening in NYC, see - https://www.mobilize.us/nokings/
Tribeca _ Wednesday through Sunday, June 4 - 15, 2025 - The Tribeca Film Festival - at Spring Studios at [6 St Johns Lane] but generally the entrance on Varick between York and Laight Streets in Tribeca is the most frequently used. There are a multitude of free and paid live and online events and films covering a variety of subjects including but not limited to LGBTQ, LatinX and Juneteenth to view at various venues around the city. For details see - https://tribecafilm.com
The photo above or at right was taken at the Tribeca Film Festial last year. The festival returned earlier this week and will continue through next weekend. See details below.
Saturday, June 7, 2025 from 9.30 am to 5 pm - St Nicholas Avenue Festival - Along St Nicholas Avenue between 181st Street to 188th Street - street fairs in the Upper West Side NYC neighborhood of Manhattan. For details see - https://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/ny-state-health-nicholas-avenue-festival-and-carnaval-event
Saturday, June 7, 2025 - Manhattan Art Open at El Barrio - on the UES / East Harlem.
Saturday, June 7, 2025 from 10 am - 5 pm - 40th Annual 116th Street Festival - Along 3rd Avenue from 106th St to 122nd street and along 116th between 2nd and Lexington Avenues in the El Barrio section of East Harlem. Food, shopping & three stages of entertainment. For details see - https://116thstfestival.com/
Sunday, June 8, 2025 beginning at 11 am - The Puerto Rican Day Parade returns. It will kick off at 5th Avenue at 43rd Street marching north to 79th Street on the UES. This is one of the largest parades in NYC and it celebrates various aspects of Puerto Rican culture. For details see - https://www.nprdpinc.org/
Washington Heights _ Saturday, June 7 & 21, 2025 from 11 am to 7 pm & 12 noon to 6 pm respectively - 16th Annual Multi-Cultural Festival - 1st Weekend in the Jackie Robinson Bandshell at 85 Bradhurst Avenue between 147th & 148th Streets in Washington Heights. The 2nd Weekend is held at along St. Nicholas Avenue between 141st and 145th Streets in Washington Heights. This event includes performances, food, vendors and social services. Organized by New York African Chorus Ensemble in collaboration with the NYPD 30th Precinct & the 30th Precinct Community Council. For free tickets [not required per se] and details, copy & paste - https://multiculturalfestival.nyc
Midtown _ Tuesday - Sunday, June 3 - 8, 2025 at various times - Independent Film Festival - at the Producers Club at 358 West 44th Street in Midtown Manhattan. For $22 tickets and details see - https://nycindieff.com/
UWS _ Thursday - Thursday, June 5 - 12, 2025 at various times - The Israeli Film Festival - at the Marlene Meyerson JCC at 334 Amersterdam Avenue [at 76th Street] on level L2- Auditorium on the UWS. For details and $10 - $50 tickets, copy & paste - https://mmjccm.org/
Tuesday, June 10, 2025 from 6 - 9 pm - Museum Mile Festival - Along 5th Avenue from 79th Street to 106th Street on the Upper East Side. All of the exquisite museums along 5th Avenue on the Upper East Side UES are open to the public for free. For details see - https://www.centralpark.com/events/museum-mile-festival/
Wednesday, June 11, 2025 - Taste of Summer in Central Park - on Bethesda Terrace. Fundraiser for the Central Park Conservancy. Tickets are $400 / person or $10K - $15K for a table. For details see - https://www.centralparknyc.org/activities/events/taste-of-summer
MCAL _ MEMBER CALENDAR EVENTS - Use this link for new member sign up and posting - Manhattan Buzz New Member Sign Up. Click this link Manhattan Member Events Calendar to view free posts made by arts, cultural and community groups.
CLICK here to read the rest of our report about Things to do this Weekend in all 5 Boroughs of NYC.
May 23, 2025 at 12:15 am by PeterParker
May 19, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
May 09, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Updated May 3, 2025 vs 5.1.25 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Sunrise 6.02 am. Sunset 7.52 pm. Daylight Savings Time. We're getting 13 hours & 58 minutes of daylight or four hours and 43 more minutes of sunlight than we were getting the weekend of the Winter Solstice, on December 21, 2024, which is the shortest day of the year at 9 hours and 15 minutes of daylight. Spring began Thursday, March 20, 2025, which is also the Spring Equinox, when the day is 12 hours long - half daylight and half dark.
NYC Weather. There's a 50% - 60% chance of a half inch of rain after 4 pm on Saturday, and a 40% - 60% chance of over a half inch of rain on Sunday. Definitely manageable. The temperature highs will rise from about 70 degrees on Thursday, to about 80 on Friday and Saturday, before falling back a bit to about 70 degrees on Sunday. The temperature lows will be around 60 degrees all weekend. The humidity will rise from 40% on Thursday morning to 70% later in the day. For the rest of the weekend the humidity will range between 60% - 80%. The winds will range between 5 - 10 mph all weekend.
The photo above or at right was taken earlier this week. Notice the man sitting on a ledge in the top left portion of the photo. Folks were out enmasse, enjoying the unseasonally warm weather.
Saturday Very Early AM Edition @ 2 am. Done. FYI - a few weeks ago we did a major Spring cleaning update to the street fairs and farmers markets to reflect the coming months / season of outdoor activities, which you can find by using the links below. Henceforth we will be updating either weekly or as needed.
Friday, Saturday & Sunday, May 2, 3 & 4, 2025 at various times but generally from 10 am to 5 pm - Janes Walk Weekend - at 200 locations in all five boroughs. Various art, culture, history and architectural tours throughout all five boros of NYC. Free. They describe the event as follows, " ... MAS staff organize a fleet of volunteer walk leaders, to create 200+ FREE, in-person, virtual, and on-demand walks with over 10,000 participants ... During Jane’s Walk NYC weekend, the simple act of exploring the city is enhanced with personal observations, local history, and civic engagement."... Organized by the Municipal Art Society. Not a street fair so much as a streets tour. For details including a map of locations, copy & paste - https://www.mas.org/janes-walk-nyc-2025/
In the photo above or at right, you can see a number of shops lined up along the subway and street. Small merchants around NYC and the nation, like Wall Street, are nervous about the prospect that Trump tariffs and disruptions, could have a negative impact on their businesses and livelihoods.
Sunday, May 4, 2025 first wave beginning at 7.30 am & officially over at 6 pm - 5 Boro Bike Ride. It starts between Canal Street and the Battery in Manhattan, depending on the cyclist wave folks are in. And it ends at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island. Not a street fair per se, but rather a major cycling event. For details, copy & paste - https://www.bike.nyc
Thursday & Friday, May 8 & 9, 2025 from 12 noon to 10 pm - CUNY Jazz Festival - in Aaron Davis Hall at [it's either 129 or the flyer says 160] Convent Avenue in Washington Heights Manhattan NYC. For details see - https://jazz.ccnysites.cuny.edu/contact/
Saturday, June 14, 2025 is the Deadline to Register to Vote in the NYC Primary on June 24th. Applications must be received by the NY Board of Elections to be eligible to vote in this election. As it's a Saturday, we recommend you make sure they get it by Friday, June 13, 2025. The winner of the Democratic primary is almost always the person who becomes Mayor [Giuliani and Bloomberg were exceptions because of Rupert Murdoch's NY Post & Fox News manipulations & Bloomberg's $$$], as 56% of NYC voters identify as Democrat, and about 26% identify as Republican [other sources say these numbers are 48% & 21% respectively].
Apr 23, 2025 at 12:15 am by PeterParker
Mar 10, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Mar 08, 2025 at 12:15 am by PeterParker
Feb 10, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Feb 14, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Jan 19, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
January 1, 2025 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Holidays / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
For all of us, today starts the beginning of a new year. It's an opportunity to start anew. And even if we don't fulfill our highest expectations, moving the needle in the right direction, is always a good thing.
The rest of this report is about some of the things you can do personally to make 2025 a better year for you.
Dec 29, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
December 26, 2024 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / Gotham Buzz NYC.
NYC Weather. Sunrise 7.18 am. Sunset 4.35 pm. For the first time since June, the days are starting to get longer. We're up 2 minutes of sunlight versus last week.
It looks to be a rainy weekend, on both Saturday [1/3 inch] and Sunday [over 3/4 inch]. There are bound to be plenty of times, during both days, when there's little rain falling; so be brave, and don't let a little water stop you from enjoying your precious time with family and friends.
The temperature highs will rise from about 30 on Thursday, to 34 on Friday, 44 on Saturday, and into the low 50's on Sunday. The temperature lows will rise from the mid teens on Thursday, to the high 20's on Friday, into the low 40's on Saturday and Sunday. The winds will range from 5 - 7 mph on Thursday and Friday, kicking up to 5 - 10 mph Saturday and then again up to 15 mph on Sunday. It's going to be a humid weekend ranging from 70% on Thursday up to 90% on Sunday. These temperature statistics are unusually high for this time of year versus historical norms.
The photo at right, taken in Sunnyside Queens a year ago this week, shows an example of the holiday home decorations one can find in the five boroughs of NYC.
This weekend use the links below to find holiday events, holiday markets and look for things to do over the New Years Eve weekend. We'll be updating the NYE pages over the weekend.
Dec 20, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Dec 20, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
December 6, 2024 / NYC Real Estate & Business / NYC Government & Politics / City of Yes Special Section / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz.
The City of Yes for Housing Opportunities bill passed yesterday afternoon / evening in the City Council Chambers at City Hall. The City of Yes or NYC Municipal Legislative Bill - L.U. 181 & Res 689 - App. N 240290 ZRY (City of Yes Zoning for Housing Opportunity) amendment of the Zoning Resolution of the City of New York, modifying multiple Sections to expand opportunities for housing within all zoning districts, Citywide. *
The photo snapshot at right shows the NYC Council voting on the City of Yes.
Voting For the City of Yes Members. Carlina Rivera District 2, Eric Bottcher District 3, Keith Powers District 4, Julie Menin District 5, Gale Brewer M District 6, Shaun Abreu District 7, Diana Ayala District 8, Yusef Salaam M District 9, Carmen De La Rosa M District 10, Kevin Riley Bx District 12, Pierina Ana Sanchez District 14, Oswald Feliz District 15, Althea Stevens District 16, Rafael Salamanca Bx District 17, Amanda Farias District 18, Francisco Moya Q District 21, Tiffany Caban Q District 22, Shekar Krishnan Q District 25, Julie Won Q District 26, Nantasha Williams Q District 27, Speaker Adrienne Adams Q District 28, Selvena N. Brooks-Powers Q District 31, Lincoln Restler District 33, Jennifer Gutierrez District 34, Crystal Hudson District 35, Chi Osse District 36, Sandy Nurse District 37, Alexa Aviles District 38, Shahana Hanif District 39, Rita Joseph District 40, Justin Brannan Bk District 47.
Pay attention to the delineation of NYC Council members by the boroughs noted above by letters. Speaker Adrienne Adams delivered enough Queens council member votes (7) in favor of the legislation, which had they voted as their Community Boards did, would have killed the City of Yes bill.
Did Adrienne Adams and these NYC Council members betray the people of Queens they were elected to represent? Well, if so, keep in mind they are up for re-election in June 2025. So please educate yourself, fact check the statements made herein by using the power of the internet, and then after you've done enough research to know what's true, start spreading the news and get behind people who will represent you, the voters, not the big money that funded their campaigns.
Voting in the Negative. Joann Ariola District 32, Chris Banks District 42, Joseph C. Borelli District 51, David Carr District 50, Eric Dinowitz District 11, James Gennaro District 24, Kamillah Hanks District 49, Robert Holden District 30, Linda Lee District 23, Farah N. Louis District 45, Kristy Marmorato District 13, Christopher Marte District 1, Diane Mealy District 41, Mercedes Narcisse District 46, Vickie Paladino District 19, Lynn Schulman District 29, Sandra Ung District 20, Inna Vernikov District 48, Kalmar Yeger District 44, Susan Zhuang District 43.
We will keep this roll call of the vote on our site indefinitely in the City of Yes Special Report Section, because you, the voters, can use it as one benchmark vote, that helps you understand who is representing you, and how they are representing you. This becomes particularly important as there is the Democratic Primary in June 24, 2025 and the general election is November 4, 2025. Almost all of the elections are decided in the June primary because 56% of NYC is Democratic and only 26% is Republican. The remaining 18% are independent.
* Editor's Note. The summary of the bill leaves out the part about the NYC Council members forfeiting their power, and because they represent us, they are forfeiting our power and legal rights to weigh in on new developments in our neighborhoods. The summary also leaves out the part where by rushed passage of the 1,388 bill, the real estate developers and international investors can harvest a huge amount of tax abatements for 'affordable housing' that would be 'affordable' to individuals making up to $141,000 and a family of three making up to $183,00 per year or making rental payments of $4575 per month. And the summary leaves out the part about the negotiated deal, wherein how Eric Adams is going to miraculously fund the $4 billion, that magically appeared just by Eric Adams promising it, after Eric Adams tried to cut $100 million from the budgets of public schools in January 2024 and cut $22 million from the budget for public libraries as recently as November 2023. Adams promise of $4 billion is just that, and only that - a promise - as it is NOT IN THE BUDGET. And we all know the value of a politician's promise, especially when it's made by someone like Eric Adams, who has a documented history of lying, and is managing a tight budget that doesn't have $4 billion of funding lying around. He's going to have to take that funding from other places like public schools, public libraries and the NYPD.
November 27, 2024 / NYC Neighborhoods / Thanksgiving Holidays in NYC / Gotham Buzz NYC.
A couple of years ago, I happened upon a childhood book of fables and fairytales that I had saved since I was a first grader. I was young enough to still like fairytales and old enough to be learning and loving to read.
The book, A Gateway to Storyland, by Platt & Munk Co, was given to me around the holidays, and the book still gives me a warm, loved feeling when I periodically open it to browse through the fairytales and fables containing little nuggets of age old wisdom about how to conduct onesself [see photo at right / the book is still in print]. I read it numerous times immediately upon receiving it, as the illustrations fed my imagination, and lessons embedded in the words resonated with timeless sagacity.
Love comes in many forms, but the purest form is unselfish love. The love of truly giving something with no thought of anything in return. That love is oftentimes given intergenerationally - from grandparents to parents to children.
Perhaps the greatest gifts are those that cost us nothing but our time. Like the gift of teaching someone something that they will be able to put to good use throughout their lives. Parents do this all the time, when they help their children develop skills, and impart some knowledge and learning ... just as my parents did many years ago, by giving me a well illustrated fairytale book to encourage my interest in reading, while sharing the time tested insights of the ages, handed down through storytelling.
At Thanksgiving time we commemorate one of America's first settlements, founded by the risk-taking, resource-pooling, hardworking, spiritual community of Pilgrims.
The Pilgrims were early English settlers who arrived on American shores in the early 17th century [1600's]. They came here because they wanted a measure of freedom and self-determination that they were forbidden in Europe or what was called the 'old country'. The Pilgrims wanted to practice their faith, unencumbered, in a way that differed from the established Church of England. They pooled their money to obtain a ship, the Mayflower, to cross the Atlantic in mid September of 1620, landing on America's shores at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts on November 9, 1620. Think of it. It took about a month and a half to travel a distance we can now traverse in about five hours.
Per Wikipedia, the Piligrims survived a hard winter in 1621 with the help of the Wampanoag, an American Indian tribe. The Pilgrims were the immigrants, and the first Americans, the Indian natives, welcomed them. The Wampanaog taught the Pilgrims how to catch eels, and how to grow and harvest corn. Thus the Pilgrims ended 1621 with a good harvest which they celebrated and shared with their new friends, expressing their gratitude to a higher power, aka God, for the success of their endeavors.
Thus it was that the first Thanksgiving celebration happened in America ... or did it?
November 12, 2024 / NYC Government & Politics / NYC Real Estate & Business / News & Analysis / Gotham Buzz NYC.
Adams Administration Fails to Provide Straight Answers Two Very Specific & Very Basic Questions - 1) How Many Affordable Housing Units Guaranteed by Passage of this Legislation & 2) a) What Size Units, b) at What 'Affordable' Price and c) in What Borough?
What 'Affordable' Housing Guarantees? It is being sold as a cure-all for NYC's housing crisis, yet when I asked the Adams Administration Department of Planning how many units of affordable housing would we be guaranteed by passage of this legislation, the answer that came back to me was a long-winded form of 'none'.
I'll say this again - No 'affordable' housing units are guaranteed by passage of the City of Yes legislation.
What Size Apartment, at What Price & in What Borough? When I asked the Adams Administration's Department of City Planning to provide me with details of how many units of affordable housing would be built, at what 'affordable' price, for what size apartment, and in what borough - I again received another round-about answer via a link they sent me, to one of their selling pitches on a website, where I found no specifics related to the question above.
Let me say this again - No description of what sized units, at what 'affordable' price and in what borough. I found this hard to believe, since for the past year Mayor Adams and Daniel Garodnick of the Department of City Planning have been publicly selling this legislation, by promising it will result in over 108,000 new units of 'affordable' housing being built.
My papa once told me, "No proof. No sale."
Or as the 1980's Reagan commercial asked, "where's the beef?". In this case 'beef' = 'affordable housing'.
Oct 24, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
October 23, 2024 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Real Estate & Business / Gotham Buzz NYC.
'Better hurry' to participate in this 'affordable housing' lottery for apartments in the Jasper at 49-20 5th Street in Long Island City, Queens. Studios are renting for the 'low, low price' of $2,900 per month and two bedroom apartments are a 'steal' at only $4,400 per month.
To qualify you 'only' need to be earning between $99,000 and $250,000 per year. These annual incomes, which are an eligibility requirement, are only 'slightly' higher [+50% to +291%] than the median NYC salary of $64,000 per year.
But don't worrry, if you miss this 'great' opportunity for 'affordable housing', because the real estate developers, real estate investors, billionaires, property owners and Mayor Adams, are pushing hard to get through the City of Yes Zoning Law changes, which will provide huge tax breaks to investors, billioinaires and real estate developers to make even more of this kind of 'affordable housing' available all over NYC.
Isn't that 'exciting'? It looks like more 'affordable housing' is finally on its way ...
See related stories below and in our City of Yes Special Report section on Gotham Buzz.
And you still have time to be heard by the NY City Council regarding your opinion of the City of Yes. Written Testimony is accepted for 72 hours after the hearing that was held Tuesday 10.22.24. Use this email address to send them your opinions - landusetestimony@council.nyc.gov. I believe the comment period expires at the close of business on Friday 10.25.24.
Oct 12, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
October 8, 2024 / LIC Neighborhood / Queens Real Estate & Business / Queens Buzz.
It was a beautiful, sunny, dry day as I walked over to the Museum of the Moving Image in LIC / Astoria. I arrived around 11 am to attend part of the second half of the LIC Summit, which is a real estate and business conference which examines in depth, an LIC centric world, but also mindful of the surrounding environment.
After I made my way through a flawless check-in, I found my way into the theater and sat down to listen in on the panel providing a Long Island City real estate update. These panels are structured such that the moderator serves up a number of questions to the panelists for comment, which is then followed by audience questions, which sometimes are the best, because they are asked by people like you and me, who have lived and worked in the area for a long while and witnessed and have adjusted to the huge changes that have occurred in Long Island City over the past couple of decades.
This panel included Patricia Dunphy of SVP of Rockrose Development, Eric Benaim CEO / Founder of Modern Space, Dan Mogolesko SVP of the Durst Organization, Peter Papamichael Principal of the VOREA Group and Crystal Xu Director of Business Development United Construction & Development Group.
As I came in at the end of the panel presentation, I only caught the Q&A portion of the program, which follows.
A performance theater / school owner pondered aloud whether the developers were still interested in involving and supporting the arts and culture scene in Long Island City. At the turn of the century LIC was well known as a thriving artists community, as it offered very competitive rents and good access to mass transit. In the near quarter century since then many - if not most - of the artists have moved out of the area as they can no longer afford the rents, which have skyrocketed from under $1,000 / month to over $4,000 per month.
One of the panelists said they are interested in supporting the arts and he mentioned Culture Lab LIC as one of the arts institutions that has survived the changes. But that was pretty much the full extent of the conversation surrounding the arts community. So I reckon the short answer would be no.
Updated September 24, 2024 & began February 21, 2024 / NYC Real Estate & Business / City of Yes Special Report Section / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Government & Politics / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz.
This section contains the reporting we've been doing on the proposed City of Yes legislation. The City of Yes legislation appears, in essence, to be a major effort by Mayor Adams to have New Yorkers almost completely give up their power vis-a-vis having any kind of say with respect to real estate development in their neighborhoods and communities. The power is transferred to the Mayor's Office & NYC Department of Planning which is controlled by the Mayor, as well as to the billionaires, international investors & wealthy real estate developers - many of whom have contributed generously to the Mayor's election campaigns and legal defense fund, and appear to be continuing to do so. If this doesn't look right, then you're seeing what I'm seeing.
The City of Yes legislation seems a complete capitulation to the billionaires and real estate developers interests. In fact they are the ones who put together the 1366 page legislation. Given Mayor Adam's other ethical and legal problems, it is very troublesome that many of the same folks who will benefit significantly from the passing of this legislation, are also major contributors to the Mayor's - and also many City Councilmembers' - re-election bids / campaigns. It's time to pay attention, because this matters and with the election coming up, you can do something about it.
Mayor Adams isn't the only Mayoral candidate taking wealthy real estate developers' and billionaire property investors' cash, which oftentimes contain invisible strings that seem to be used to manipulate what gets done at City Hall ... like the City of Yes legislation appears to be.
Pay attention to whether any of the candidates running this election cycle, have the courage and integrity to call out this legislation for what it appears to be - a sell out of the masses of New Yorkers by their elected representatives - to the wealthy and super rich people who fund their campaigns.
Democracy only works if 'We The People' pay attention to who is who, and what they do, before we vote.
Unfortunately, you're not likely to be informed about this by the TV news teleprompter readers, who recite lullabies, while showing NYPD crime and social media accident videos, instead of reporting the news. Even on their best days, the TV teleprompter readers barely scratch the surface of what's really going on in this city - and on those rare occasions when they do - they seem oblivious to it.
What follows below are the reports we've done to date on the City of Yes - a nearly complete overhaul of New York City's zoning regulations.
More reports to follow, as time and resource allow.
August 30, 2024 / Coney Island / Brooklyn / Brooklyn BLVD.
On Friday night, the final fireworks show by the Alliance for Coney Island, started around 10 pm on the Reigelmann Boardwalk just east of the Steeple Chase Tower and adjacent to the Luna Amusement Park. It was a comfortable evening, with a slight, cool breeze coming in off the water. There were hundreds of spectators who came to see the show and enjoy an end of the summer ride and snacks at Luna Park. I shot the 10 - 15 minute show from various locations around the Boardwalk, water and Luna Park and then edited it down to about 2 - 3 minutes, ending with a bit of island music. Enjoy the show.
Jul 08, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Jul 06, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
June 17, 2024 / Things To Do NYC / Holidays, Parades & Ethnic Culture / Gotham Buzz.
Over the past ten years or so, interest and awareness of Juneteenth has grown fast. Juneteenth commemorates American slaves obtaining their freedom on June 19, 1865 in Texas, when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation, wherein President Abraham Lincoln officially freed the slaves effective January 1, 1863. Unlike today, word didn't travel so fast, and in the Confederate states, the white slave owners did their best to keep the slaves from learning of Lincoln's Executive Order. Juneteenth is a word blend denoting June [nine]teenth. President Biden declared Juneteenth a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, taking effect immediately and in time for folks to first celebrate the holiday two days later, on June 19th, 2021.
In the photo at right is John Watusi, who was a Founder and the Executive Director of the Afrikan Poetry Theatre in years gone by [now deceased]. John was a poet and a civil rights activist who recognized, along with others, the important role that history and culture play in people's lives. So, while Juneteenth is a celebration of an African American liberation day, it is also a celebration of African American culture.
This year NYC Mayor Adams cited a number of NYC cultural and historical sites and tours related to Juneteenth and the African American experience in NYC. In an OpEd he penned and we published Monday, you'll find links to some of the sites and tours he references of interest. Click here to read recent OpEds and Editorials on Gotham Buzz NYC.
Here are a couple of African American Historical Sites in NYC, some of which are referenced in the Mayor's OpEd. Brooklyn Juneteenth Historic Sites - Juneteenth Grove at Cadman Plaza in Downtown Brooklyn. It's there 24/7. Manhattan Juneteenth Historic Sites - African Burial Ground - located at Elk and Duane Streets just a block north of City Hall in downtown Manhattan. Online Juneteenth Historic Sites - African American Landmarks and Historic District Interactive Map & Seneca Village Online - created by the Landmarks Preservation Committee.
Click here for things to do this weekend Brooklyn NYC or click here for things to do this weekend in Manhattan NYC.
In addition to the presidential primary, there are also NYS primary races on the ballot.
Oct 15, 2024 at 12:15 am by mikewood
UPDATED October 7, 2023 from 9.19.23 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / Gotham Buzz NYC.
The official / unofficial kick off to the month and a half of Oktoberfest events in NYC begins in Manhattan with the Steuben Parade. This report identifies a number of Oktoberfest events around NYC beginning mid September and running through the end of October.
The photo at right shows one of the floats in the Steuben Parade celebrating the consumption of bier, which in tandem with consumption of bratwurst, is an integral part of Oktoberest. One thing the photo doesn't show is the music, that also goes hand in hand with Oktoberfest.
Coming with time. We've posted a number of Oktoberfests in this report, but a few more are coming. Also watch the front page, as this year [only] they are likely to be posted there first.
ALWAYS A WORK IN PROGRESS
SEPTEMBER marks the beginning of the new school year and the summer unofficially ends on the Labor Day Weekend. In addition to Labor Day, September is the month of Oktoberfest, 911, the official start of Autumn and the Jewish New Year.
September is an events filled month for Staten Island, including the West Indian American Day Parade and Carnival, the Ridgewood Italian Festival, the Korean Festival [not sure this year], the Great Irish Fair, Oktoberfest at the Fort Hamilton Army Base, the Fall Arts Season on Governor's Island, and the Greek Orthodox Fair at Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church.
Brooklyn is also the host of numerous concerts, theater and film events, as well as great food, parks and fairly good public transit.
The September photo featured above shows one of the parade participants dressed for the West Indian American Day Parade in a prior year [2023].
Enjoy.
Use search to find prior stories, maps, photos and business listings.
SEARCH
September 10, 2023 / NYC Neighborhoods / NYC Things To Do Events / Gotham Buzz NYC.
This weekend, there are a number of events around the five boroughs commemorating the losses of 911. The following are a few of those events.
The collection of photos at right shows an cultural performance at Lincoln Center honoring the victims of 911. The performance returns Monday at 8.05 am.
Ongoing _ Daffodil Project in NYC Parks. For details see - https://www.nycgovparks.org/highlights/sept-11-memorials
August 29, 2023 / Brooklyn Neighborhoods / NYC Issues / Brooklyn BLVD.
Just over a week ago, Governor Hochul announced that she and NYC Mayor Adams had received a lease agreement from the Biden Administration, regarding the terms for leasing the Floyd Bennett Airfield for temporary use as a migrant center. The airfield is expected to be capable of providing temporary shelter for about 2,500 immigrants.
Floyd Bennett Airfield is located at the south eastern end of Brookyn and is part of the Jamaica Bay Wildlife sanctuary, as you can see from the map at right. The airport became a part of the National Park Service in 1972 when the Gateway National Recreation Area was established to protect important natural resources within / near NYC. Sandy Hook New Jersey is also a part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, while the rest of it is located in Queens, Staten Island and Brooklyn, as previously implied.
Four years ago, on August 31, 2019, I visited the Floyd Bennett Airfield with the intention of doing a story on it, which - until now - I had not had an opportunity to do. On that visit, I biked the airfield, took photos in both the museum and peeked through the dusty windows of the hangars and warehouses on the airfield, to photographed our recent past.
Given that the airfield is about to be transformed into a sprawling migrant center, I thought folks might want to take a look at it as it was four years ago, before it is repurposed into something quite new. Along with this story, I'll also take you through a brief history ...
... as the Floyd Bennett Airfield was NYC's first airport, predating LaGuardia which according to Wikipedia opened on December 2, 1939 and JFK which opened as New York International Airport [nicknamed Idlewild] in July 1, 1948. Floyd Bennett Airfield opened on May 23, 1931.
Mar 24, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Sep 05, 2025 at 12:15 am by PeterParker
Sep 06, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Aug 29, 2025 at 12:15 am by mikewood
Jun 28, 2023 at 12:15 am by mikewood
September 4, 2020 / NYC Neighborhoods / U.S. Politics / News Analysis & Opinion / Gotham Buzz NYC.
As mentioned previously, I've been doing a fairly deep dive into learning as much about the Third Reich and Nazi Germany as time permits, in order to more fully understand what's happening in present day events.
I began noticing similarities between Australian born billionaire Rupert Murdoch's manipulative use of his large share of Amerian media in 2016, to what Joseph Goebbels, the Reich Minister of Propaganda for the Nazis, did beginning in the 1920's until his end in 1945. On May 1, 1945 Goebbels poisoned his children, his wife and himself as the Allied forces neared his home. Hitler and his companions had committed suicide the day before, as Allied forces invaded Berlin. None of them had the courage to stand trial for their crimes against humanity ... although like Mussolini, they may not have made it to court.
So today, we're going to look at just a few of Murdoch's media manipulations made in just the past couple of months - and I'm nearly certain that this is just the tip of the iceberg. Unfortunately, I don't have the resource to fact check what is the largest misleading news content producing organization in the nation, and possibly the free world.
Let's start with the first two photos on this page. This story broke in the Guardian on July 7, 2020.
The first photo shows Fox News 'reporting the news' regarding the sexcapades of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislane Maxwell. In the first photo, Fox News conveniently cropped out Donald Trump. In the second photo [at right] we have the 'full picture' aka the truth.
The man who calls everyone else a 'sleezeball' is seen with Melania 'being best', and two of the people alleged to be among some of the sleeziest on the planet [Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislane Maxwell]. Do birds of a feather flock together?
So we must ask why Rupert Murdoch would crop Donald Trump out of the photo? Is it to avoid portraying the Donald in a negative light in order to keep him - a Murdoch asset - in office?
Trump appears to have been a boon to billionaire Murdoch through massive billionaire tax cuts funded by debt to be paid for by America's children and unborn? Or is because Trump's actions in the Middle East vis a visIsrael seemed to serve to legitimize Murdoch's investment in Genie Energy in the illegally occupied Syrian Golan Heights? Or was it because Trump loosened up the FCC ownership limits for mega media companies like Murdoch's thus allowing the few to control our media, which givens them the power to influence the national democratic conversation - and in Murdoch's case - it seems the power to corrupt it in order to profit from it. Or was it because Trump famously fired all U.S. Attorneys, including Preet Bharara - who was investigating Murdoch's companies for sexual harrassment and phone hacking - less than 24 hours after Sean Hannity on Fox News told him to do just that? Perhaps most importantly, Trump's Attorney General Bill Barr, greenlighted the merger of Disney / ABC, which was an inverted takeover resulting in Rupert Murdoch becoming Disney / ABC's largest shareholder.