# Lunar New Year Celebrations Light Up NYC!

New York City's Lunar New Year celebrations were vibrant and full of energy this past Saturday!  From the lively parade in Queens to the captivating events at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music and Lincoln Center, the city pulsated with the spirit of the new year.

![Lunar New Year Parade](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/02/02/57cfa83f-a41d-4663-99f4-dbdb4258651f/thumbnail/1280x720/f6f6ebc223e2251c5659bfbb462c184f/5040e2514b9609e421427a31c813988e.jpg?v=a599723035d2f104d7a2d01edbe96ef8)

The atmosphere was electric, filled with traditional music, delicious food, and the joy of celebrating a fresh start.  Various cultural performances showcased the rich heritage of the Lunar New Year, creating unforgettable memories for attendees. 

This year's celebrations were particularly special, marking a return to more traditional festivities after recent years of limitations.


Lunar New Year celebrations continued across New York City on Saturday, from events at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music and Lincoln Center to a parade in Queens.

NYC's Lunar New Year: Spectacular Celebrations & Parades!

# NYC Outdoor Dining is Back!

Outdoor dining is officially back in NYC for the 2025 season, bringing the city's vibrant restaurant scene back to the streets. But finding the perfect spot might be trickier than you think.

## Navigating the NYC Outdoor Dining Scene

The Department of Transportation (DOT) manages the program and provides three separate resources to help you find outdoor dining options:

1. **Interactive Map:** Search by restaurant name or location to see if a license has been issued.  [Link to interactive map](https://www.example.com/map) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)
2. **List of Applicants:**  A comprehensive list of restaurants that applied for sidewalk dining by the August 3rd deadline.  [Link to applicant list](https://www.example.com/applicants) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)
3. **Conditional Approvals:** A list of restaurants with conditional approval for roadway cafes.  [Link to conditional approvals](https://www.example.com/approvals) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)

Note that the availability of outdoor dining spots varies significantly across boroughs.  Manhattan and Brooklyn have the most options. 

## Rules and Regulations

The city has specific guidelines for outdoor dining, including requirements for cleanliness, noise levels, and operating hours.  Failure to comply may result in fines. [Link to guidelines](https://www.example.com/guidelines) (Replace with actual link if available from original article)

* **Operating Hours:** Sidewalk and roadway cafes can operate seven days a week from April 1st to November 29th, with varying hours. 
* **Cleanliness:** Areas must be clean and free of trash and unsanitary conditions.
* **Fines:** Non-compliance can lead to fines ranging from $200 to $500.

## Not Everyone's Happy

Some restaurants are unhappy with the new program, citing reduced seating capacity, restrictions on structures (like awnings), and complex application processes.  This has led some established restaurants to forgo outdoor dining altogether. The process is also seen as inequitable, with some boroughs having far fewer options than others.

## What's Next?

Legislation has been introduced to make the outdoor dining program permanent, addressing concerns about the costs and logistics of seasonal setup and takedown.   The availability of alcohol permits also adds another layer of complexity for some restaurants.


Outdoor dining is set to start today in NYC. Here&#039;s what to know to find the best table near you.

NYC Outdoor Dining Returns: Find Your Perfect Al Fresco Spot!

# NYC Batters by Severe Storms: Tornado Warnings, Hail, and Flooding!

<img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2025/03/2020-WNBC-New-Modified-6.png" alt="">

A line of strong to severe storms swept through the tri-state area on Monday night, bringing with it damaging wind gusts, large hail, isolated flooding, and even tornado warnings.  The storms initially impacted areas west and northwest of NYC in the late afternoon, generating heavy rain and gusty winds.

## Key Impacts:

* **Tornado Warnings:** A tornado warning was issued for Middlesex and Monmouth counties in New Jersey.  Thankfully, the threat dissipated and the warning was lifted.
    <iframe src="https://twitter.com/StormTeam4NY/status/1906880704945754461" width="500" height="400"></iframe>
* **High Winds & Hail:** Wind gusts of around 60 mph and quarter-sized hail were possible, causing significant damage.
* **Flooding:** Heavy downpours led to flooding advisories in the Bronx, Bergen, Hudson counties, and parts of Manhattan, causing urban flooding in low-lying areas.  <img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2025/03/2020-WNBC-New-Modified.png" alt="">
* **Airport Delays:** Newark Airport experienced significant flight delays due to the severe weather conditions.
* **Power Outages:** PSE&G reported active power outages affecting several customers and prepared additional crews.

## Storm Timeline:

The main line of storms hit northern New Jersey around 9 p.m., followed by New York City around 9:30 p.m.  The storms weakened as they moved east towards Long Island.

## Safety Precautions:

Residents were urged to remain indoors during the storms and to take necessary precautions to avoid potential harm from high winds, hail and flooding.  The city's emergency management office issued warnings about potential urban flooding.

<img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2025/03/image_b9a00a.png?w=933" alt="Severe weather threats">

While the tornado risk was low (around 2%), it was not zero, highlighting the importance of staying weather-aware.

[Here's information from the NYC emergency management office on how to prepare for a tornado](https://www.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/tornadoes.page)

Severe storms hit the tri-state area Monday. Damaging wind gusts, large hail, isolated flooding and even an isolated tornado are possible.

NYC Hit by Severe Storms: Tornado Warnings, Hail, and Flooding!

# Bronx Mall Mayhem: Teen Stampede Sends Shoppers into Panic!

Videos circulating on social media captured the chaos at The Mall at Bay Plaza in the Bronx on Saturday night.  Hundreds of shoppers were caught in a sudden stampede after a group of teenagers began running, causing widespread panic.

## The Scene Unfolds

Footage shows teens sprinting and circling the mall, prompting a panicked reaction from shoppers who were unsure of the cause.  The incident, which began in the food court with a reported chair-throwing incident, resulted in three arrests for disorderly conduct.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/example" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

One witness described the scene as "shocking" and likened the behavior to a "group mentality." Another witness, a salon employee, locked the doors out of fear, emphasizing the widespread alarm caused by the incident.  

## Reactions and Aftermath

While some, like Councilmember Kevin Riley, suggested increased law enforcement presence and potentially a curfew for young shoppers, others like Marcia Liberato, another witness, felt that the teens were merely "being children." 

The Mall at Bay Plaza released a statement emphasizing their commitment to a safe environment and their cooperation with the NYPD. They attributed the incident to a false rumor spread on social media regarding a social media influencer's presence at the mall.

## The Fallout

The incident raises questions about mall safety, the impact of social media trends on youth behavior, and the role of law enforcement in managing large crowds in public spaces.  The incident serves as a reminder of the potential for unexpected events to disrupt public order and cause widespread panic.


Videos posted on social media show mayhem at The Mall at Bay Plaza in the Bronx after teens started running and startled shoppers.

Bronx Mall Mayhem: Teen Stampede Sends Shoppers into Panic!

# NYC Outdoor Dining: A Year-Round Affair?

<img src="https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/16113032_033125-wabc-outdoor-dining-img.jpg" alt="New legislation pushes to make NYC outdoor dining year-round instead of seasonal">

New York City's beloved outdoor dining program officially kicks off on Tuesday, with permits already issued for hundreds of roadway setups and thousands of sidewalk sheds. But one assembly member believes the current seasonal setup is insufficient.

**Assembly member Tony Simone** has introduced a bill to make outdoor dining a year-round feature.  He argues that the current April-to-November timeframe is too restrictive for businesses.

**Supporters** claim that extending outdoor dining would significantly benefit both restaurants and patrons.  Andrew Rigie of the New York City Hospitality Alliance points out the substantial costs involved for businesses in setting up and dismantling these outdoor spaces every year, emphasizing the financial burden of seasonal operations.

The bill's proponents are optimistic about securing **Governor Hochul's support**, despite the city's Department of Transportation overseeing the program's regulations.

This proposed change could revolutionize the city's dining scene, offering a unique experience throughout the year.  The debate highlights the balance between promoting business growth and addressing potential logistical challenges.


Assembly member Tony Simone introduced a bill to make outdoor dining available year-round, calling the city's rule 'too restrictive.'

NYC Outdoor Dining Goes Year-Round? New Bill Aims to Make it Permanent!

# NYC's Strict New Compost Rules: Get Ready for Fines!

Starting Tuesday, New York City residents will be fined for failing to separate compostable materials from their trash.  This citywide mandate, expanding on a program launched last October, requires separating food scraps, yard waste, and food-soiled paper into designated brown bins.

## Who Gets Fined and How Much?

Fine amounts depend on your building type and the number of offenses:

* **Buildings with 1-8 units:** $25 for the first offense.
* **Buildings with 9+ units:** $100 for the first offense.

Subsequent offenses will incur higher fines.
Building owners are responsible for fines in buildings with four or more units, which must have designated composting areas.  

<img src="https://cdn.abcotvs.com/dip/images/16111373_033125-wabc-composting-fines-interview-10am-pic3.jpg" alt="Image related to NYC composting program">

## What Can and Can't Be Composted?

**Compostable:** Meat, bones, dairy, prepared foods, greasy uncoated paper plates, and pizza boxes.

**Not Compostable:** Animal waste, diapers, personal hygiene products, cardboard, plastic, metal, glass, Styrofoam.

## Why is NYC Doing This?

Over a third of NYC's trash is compostable. Sending it to landfills produces methane, a harmful greenhouse gas. Composting helps create renewable waste and reduces environmental impact.

## Reporting Non-Compliance

A new 311 complaint option is available to report buildings not complying with the composting program.  City officials are already actively monitoring compliance across neighborhoods.

## Learn More

For more information and details on the program requirements visit the [NYC Department of Sanitation's website](https://www.nyc.gov/site/dsny/collection/residents/curbside-composting.page).



Fines will be determined by what type of building a person lives in and whether this is a first, second, third or a subsequent offense.

NYC Compost Fines: $25 to $100 for Trashing Compostable Waste!

# NYC Faces Severe Storms: Flooding, Damaging Winds, and Tornado Risk!

New York City is bracing for a powerful storm system bringing severe weather, including the possibility of localized flooding, damaging winds, and even a tornado.  A **First Alert Weather Day** has been issued for Monday.

## Storm Timeline and Impacts

![Rainfall Map](https://assets3.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/03/31/3badf1a5-b2fc-4d01-a4fc-d79d5334a69d/thumbnail/1240x698/1b5876360c8c76a975f2dd307ae157e0/fa-futurecast-rainfall-graf.png)

The storm is expected to hit in three phases:

* **Afternoon (2-5 PM):** Isolated showers and storms.
* **Evening (5-10 PM):** **Severe thunderstorms** with **damaging winds** and a **small chance of tornadoes**, especially in New Jersey.  Heavy rain could cause **localized flooding**.
* **Night (10 PM - 3 AM Tuesday):** Moderate rain continues, with the severe threat diminishing.

Total rainfall could reach 1-2 inches, with higher amounts possible in some areas.  A map showing the expected rainfall totals is available.

![Storm Timeline](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/03/31/c83eb649-5512-4300-aad7-0ebcf05e4c41/thumbnail/1240x698/d54134315cc37e722b6557fbb11bd709/jl-fa-3-part-timeline.png)

## What to Expect

After the storm passes, Tuesday will bring sunshine and seasonal temperatures. Wednesday will be much cooler.

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/videoID" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Stay updated with the latest forecasts and weather alerts!

Stormy weather starts the week around NYC, with the risk of localized flooding, damaging winds and possibly even a tornado.

NYC Braces for Severe Storms: Flooding, Damaging Winds, and Tornado Risk!

# Cuomo's Controversial Run for NYC Mayor

<img src="https://pyxis.nymag.com/v1/imgs/1c0/51b/df1ae9efc3345ffbed9960a0ea796f8733-sized-mp-CUOMOMAYOR0086.rsquare.w700.jpg" alt="Andrew Cuomo" width="700" height="700">

Andrew Cuomo, the former New York governor who resigned amid sexual harassment allegations, is running for mayor of New York City.  This surprising move has sent shockwaves through the political landscape, sparking intense debate and speculation.

## Cuomo's Defense and Rebranding

Cuomo maintains that the sexual harassment allegations were exaggerated and politically motivated. He claims to have learned from past mistakes, citing personal growth, reconnection with his faith, and reconciliation with his family. He's attempting to portray himself as a changed man.

However, critics remain unconvinced, pointing to his past actions and aggressive political tactics.  The allegations, along with his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other scandals, cast a long shadow over his campaign.

## The Political Landscape

Cuomo faces a crowded field of candidates, including incumbent Mayor Eric Adams.  His opponents are aggressively targeting his past, highlighting his controversial decisions as governor and the lingering accusations of sexual misconduct.

Despite this, recent polls show Cuomo with a significant lead, potentially fueled by dissatisfaction with the current administration and a certain segment of voters who either overlook or don't care about past scandals.

## Campaign Strategy and Potential Outcomes

Cuomo's campaign is old-school, focusing on direct engagement with key demographics and building support through traditional means. His strategy seems less concerned with social media trends and more focused on securing endorsements and leveraging relationships.

His opponents, a coalition of progressive candidates, are working together to counter his campaign. They are focusing on his past actions, blaming his policies for various city issues and trying to portray him as an unfit candidate.  The outcome remains uncertain, particularly given New York City's ranked-choice voting system.

<a href="https://199.71.214.121/intelligencer/article/trumps-immigration-czar-parades-eric-adams-on-fox-news.html?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly9ueW1hZy5jb20">Link to related article about Mayor Adams</a>


After being forced out as governor, he says he’s grown and learned. His brute-force takeover of the mayor’s race, at least, looks familiar, reports David Freedlander.

NYC's Lunar New Year: Spectacular Celebrations & Parades!

Summary:

Vibrant Lunar New Year celebrations took place across NYC.

A spectacular parade was held in Queens.

Cultural events at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music and Lincoln Center entertained crowds.

The celebrations marked a return to more traditional festivities.

NYC's Lunar New Year was filled with traditional music, food, and performances.

Lunar New Year Celebrations Light Up NYC!

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