# Man on Fire at Penn Station: NYC Police Investigating

A 67-year-old man is in **critical condition** after unexpectedly catching fire at Manhattan's Penn Station on Friday night.  The **New York Police Department (NYPD)** is currently investigating the incident.  The man suffered severe burns to his legs and upper body. 

The circumstances surrounding the fire remain unclear, and the NYPD is working to determine the cause.  This shocking event has raised concerns among New Yorkers. The investigation is ongoing and further updates are expected.

<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_focal-520x260,f_auto,q_auto:best/mpx/2704722219/2024_12/1735430884960_nn_gso_nypd_investigation_into_man_on_fire_241228_1920x1080-y6n3e5.jpg" alt="Image related to the incident">


The New York Police Department is investigating how a man caught fire at Manhattan's Penn Station. According to the NYPD, a 67-year-old man was on fire on Friday night, and suffered burns to his legs and upper parts of his body. He was hospitalized with severe injuries and listed in critical condition. NBC News' George Solis has the details.

NYC Man Fighting for Life After Unexplained Fire at Penn Station

# Andrew Cuomo's Controversial NYC Mayoral Bid

![Andrew Cuomo Campaigning](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/03/1200/675/andrew-cuomo-first-campaign-event-nyc-march-2-2025-scaled.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo is surprisingly leading in the polls for the 2025 New York City mayoral race, despite his controversial past.  This comes as Mayor Eric Adams' approval rating plummets to a three-decade low.

## The Frontrunner's Baggage

Cuomo resigned in 2021 amidst multiple scandals, including 11 sexual harassment accusations (which he denies) and investigations into his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.  His rivals are already focusing on this baggage, making it a key question whether voters will overlook his past.

##  A City in Crisis?

Cuomo's campaign emphasizes his experience and ability to manage the city during a time of crisis.  He points to successful infrastructure projects such as LaGuardia Airport and the Moynihan Train Hall as evidence of his effective leadership.  However, with only four months to go until the Democratic primary, the focus will likely remain on his past actions.

##  Mayor Adams' Plummeting Approval

![Mayor Eric Adams at a Press Conference](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/02/1200/675/gettyimages-2200890396.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)

Mayor Adams' approval rating is at a mere 20%, the lowest in three decades,  exacerbated by a past indictment on bribery and fraud charges, though these charges were later dropped.

##  The Polls

A recent Quinnipiac University poll shows Cuomo with 31% support among registered Democrats, significantly ahead of Adams at 11%. A Siena College poll shows a more favorable view of Cuomo among NYC voters (48% favorable, 41% unfavorable).

##  What's Next?

The upcoming primary election will be crucial. The main question is whether Cuomo's past scandals will overshadow his experience and perceived ability to lead New York City out of its current challenges.


Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who resigned in 2021 amid multiple scandals, is the frontrunner in the 2025 New York City mayoral race, as incumbent Eric Adams' approval ratings continue to plummet.

Andrew Cuomo: Frontrunner in NYC Mayoral Race Despite Past Scandals?

# NYC Police Crackdown on Illegally Parked Mopeds and Bikes

In a major crackdown on illegal parking, the NYPD seized over 210 mopeds and bikes across four New York City boroughs over a four-day period (March 6-9).

**The operation, targeting illegally parked vehicles, resulted in the following seizures:**

*   **Bronx:** 59 mopeds/bikes
*   **Manhattan South:** 39 mopeds/bikes
*   **Manhattan North:** 45 mopeds/bikes
*   **Queens North:** 67 mopeds/bikes

<img src="https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/14378337_2024Stock_24-7_STREAM_ABC7_NEW_YORK_1280x720.png" alt="ABC7 New York 24/7 Eyewitness News Stream">

NYPD Chief of Patrol Philip Rivera stated the operation directly addresses numerous community complaints about the hazards and chaos caused by illegally parked mopeds and bikes.  This initiative aims to increase accountability among operators and enforce traffic regulations.

The NYPD plans to continue focusing on areas with high numbers of complaints.

## Related News:

[Push underway to protect beloved bodega cats that have become fixture at NYC corner stores](link-to-bodega-cat-article) 



To crack down on illegally parked mopeds in the city, the NYPD is starting to remove them.

NYC Police Crackdown: Hundreds of Illegally Parked Mopeds & Bikes Seized!

# NYC's Cycling Revolution: How Congestion Pricing is Transforming Streets

New York City's streets are feeling less congested and more spacious thanks to congestion pricing policies, bike infrastructure projects, and car bans.  Bike couriers and everyday cyclists are noticing a significant difference, with more elbow room and a sense of openness, particularly on avenues through Midtown.

<p>While CitiBike ridership data for January isn't yet available, anecdotal evidence suggests a surge in cycling.  Ken Podziba of Bike New York confirms seeing more people biking, even during an unusually cold winter, anticipating a dramatic increase as warmer weather arrives.</p>

## Inspiration from Amsterdam and Beyond

The transformation sparks questions: Could Manhattan become as bike-friendly as Amsterdam, Copenhagen, or Oslo?  These cities serve as examples of successful bicycle-centric urban planning.  Amsterdam's journey to becoming a cycling paradise began in the aftermath of a deadly 1971 traffic accident, prompting advocacy groups to protest car dependency. The 1973 oil crisis further propelled change, leading to the creation of extensive bike path networks.  Today, the Netherlands boasts over 30,000 miles of bike paths.

<figure>
<img src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1232962887/photo/cyclists-ride-along-a-street-in-copenhagen-denmark.jpg?s=612x612&w=gi&k=20&c=e9m0u3V-XvK_rWj4jZt7kK6J2tP3v7x_8z_X0RjU-0=" alt="Cyclists in Copenhagen">
<figcaption>Cyclists in Copenhagen, Denmark.  (Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>
</figure>

## The Future of NYC Cycling

The increased cycling in NYC raises the question of whether the city will invest in more and safer bike infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of cyclists. Will NYC truly embrace a future where bikes are a significant mode of transportation?


In New York and other cities where congestion pricing policies, bike infrastructure projects, and car bans have been put in place, cyclists are finding the streets more welcoming.

NYC's Cycling Revolution: How Congestion Pricing is Transforming Streets

# NYC Mayoral Race: A #MeToo Reckoning?

The upcoming New York City mayoral race presents a significant test for the #MeToo movement.  Three prominent candidates are facing accusations of sexual misconduct. While all three deny any wrongdoing, the allegations raise crucial questions about accountability and voters' priorities.

**Will voters prioritize these accusations?**  The impact of these allegations on the Democratic primary remains uncertain. Some voters may see the accusations as disqualifying, while others may prioritize other policy issues.  The outcome will likely shape the future political landscape of the city and provide insight into the ongoing national conversation surrounding sexual misconduct and its implications on political careers.

This election will be pivotal in demonstrating how voters balance policy platforms with character concerns in the wake of the #MeToo movement.  The candidates' responses and the electorate's reaction will be closely watched nationwide.


Three mayoral candidates have been accused of sexual misconduct. They deny wrongdoing. Will it be a deciding issue for Democratic voters?

NYC Mayoral Race: #MeToo Allegations Put Candidates to the Test

# NYC Comptroller Accused of Divesting Pension Funds from Israel

**NYC Comptroller Brad Lander** is facing accusations of quietly pulling New York City pension funds from Israeli government bonds.  This allegedly contrasts with the actions of his predecessors and the New York State pension system, which holds a substantial $363.9 million investment in Israeli bonds.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/local-new-york-politicians-gathered-99984302.jpg?w=1024" alt="City Comptroller Brad Lander">

The city initially invested $30 million in Israeli bonds in 1974.  While previous Comptrollers Bill Thompson, John Liu, and Scott Stringer reinvested when bonds matured, Lander's administration now reports only $1.17 million remaining, held solely by the Police Pension Fund.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/2023-attack-israel-take-part-99186409.jpg?w=1024" alt="An Israeli flag at a demonstration">

Lander's office claims the city doesn't invest directly in foreign sovereign debt, but critics like Jeffrey Wiesenfeld, a former CUNY trustee and Israel bond investor, argue this constitutes "passive divestment" for political reasons.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/030325-brad-lander-wife-meg-99704168_f6fcff.jpg?w=1024" alt="Brad Lander and his wife">

Wiesenfeld accuses Lander of aligning himself with anti-Israel groups, contrasting him with **State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli**, who maintains a significant investment in Israeli bonds and is praised for his stance.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/state-comptroller-thomas-dinapoli-speaks-96925681.jpg?w=1024" alt="State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli">

While Lander's office denies supporting BDS, the controversy highlights the politically charged nature of the issue and its potential impact on the upcoming mayoral primary.

Former Comptroller Scott Stringer, a mayoral rival to Lander, declined to comment on the situation.


City Comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander is being accused of "divesting" New York City pension funds from government bonds of the State of Israel, while the state pension system run by state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has $363.9 million invested in the Jewish State.

NYC Comptroller Accused of Secretly Divesting Pension Funds from Israel

# Silent 'Macarena' Protest at NYC School Board Meeting

<img src="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/03/1200/675/new-york-city-trans-rights-activists-protest-by-dancing-la-macarena-1.jpg?ve=1&tl=1" alt="Jo Vitale talking" width="1200" height="675">

A surprising scene unfolded at a recent New York City Community Education Council (CEC) District 2 meeting.  While a resident, Jo Vitale, spoke in favor of Resolution 248 – a measure researching the effects of biological males competing in women's sports – dozens of trans rights activists silently performed the '90s dance craze, "La Macarena."

<img src="https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2025/03/1200/675/new-york-city-trans-rights-activists-protest-by-dancing-la-macarena.jpg?ve=1&tl=1" alt="Zoom of meeting" width="1200" height="675">

Vitale voiced her support for studying the impact of transgender women competing in women's sports, calling the activists' actions "virtue-signaling" and "baby bullies."  Council members appeared amused by the silent protest.  CEC 2 Vice President Leonard Silverman acknowledged the activists' advocacy but deemed it "completely misplaced," citing its disruption of other educational discussions.

The incident took place during a meeting focused on the impact of transgender participation in women's sports. The silent protest has sparked debate and discussion about the role of activism and the importance of respectful dialogue during community meetings.

A group of trans rights activists danced "La Macarena" at a New York City education council meeting on Feb. 26 while a resident spoke in support of female athletes.

Silent 'Macarena' Protest: Trans Activists Dance During NYC School Board Meeting

# The Gates of Central Park: A Christo and Jeanne-Claude Retrospective

![Detail of a preparatory drawing for Christo and Jeanne-Claude's "The Gates" (2005)](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/03/y568p-scaled.jpeg?fit=1200%2C900&quality=90&ssl=1)

The Shed museum currently hosts *Christo and Jeanne-Claude: The Gates and Unrealized Projects for New York City*, a poignant retrospective of the iconic 2005 Central Park installation, celebrating its 20th anniversary. This exhibition offers a captivating journey through the creation of "The Gates," featuring preparatory drawings, video interviews, models, and even a real-life gate. Visitors can explore the logistical marvel and artistic vision behind this temporary masterpiece.

##  Central Park: A Park for the People

The exhibition also explores the historical context of Central Park, highlighting its unique origins as a public space, contrasting it with the exclusivity of private parks like Gramercy Park.  The original 20 gates of Central Park, with their inscriptions honoring everyday New Yorkers, serve as a powerful backdrop to Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s project.

![Christo, “The Gates (Project for Central Park, New York City)” (2004–05)](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/03/2067-1200x731.jpg?resize=780%2C475&quality=90&ssl=1)

##  "The Gates": A Gift to the City

Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s "The Gates" transformed Central Park into a vibrant public artwork, emphasizing the interplay between people, the city, and nature.  Their project, entirely funded by the artists, served as a unique gift to New York City, reflecting their vision of beauty and accessibility.  The exhibition showcases the artists’ preparatory drawings, emphasizing the human element of the artwork.

##  A Digital and Physical Experience

While the physical installation is long gone, visitors can experience a digital recreation using a Bloomberg app QR code. The exhibition also features a compelling augmented reality component that allows users to virtually immerse themselves in the 2005 installation.  This blend of physical artifacts and digital technology creates a layered and memorable experience.

![Installation view of Christo, ”Wrapped Trees and Sculpture Garden (Project for the Museum of Modern Art, New York)” (1968)](https://i0.wp.com/hyperallergic-newspack.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/2025/03/4NnRC-1200x900.jpeg?resize=780%2C585&quality=90&ssl=1)

##  Contrasting Visions: Public vs. Private Space

The exhibition’s location within The Shed, situated in the private Hudson Yards development, prompts reflection on the tension between public and private spaces in contemporary New York.  The juxtaposition highlights the contrasting perspectives on urban development and the accessibility of art and public spaces.

##  The Legacy of "The Gates"

The exhibition concludes with video interviews from visitors' reactions, highlighting the diverse and sometimes conflicting interpretations of the artwork. This diverse range of perspectives underscores the enduring impact and the lasting legacy of "The Gates" on the city’s cultural landscape.

The exhibition runs through March 23 at The Shed in Manhattan.

“The Gates” was an artwork within an artwork, inscribing the populist impulse of Central Park into 7,500+ neon orange armatures with billowing fabric.

NYC Man Fighting for Life After Unexplained Fire at Penn Station

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Man on Fire at Penn Station: NYC Police Investigating

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NYC Mayoral Race: #MeToo Allegations Put Candidates to the Test

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