7.31.2006

By Max Cohen

In the last few years Mayor Bloomberg has established a positive reputation as a leader, as he's done an exceptional job as our city's Mayor, well, atleast during these hard times. Though no one saw it coming (atleast not me), Bloomberg's camp is hinting at a presidential run in 2008.

With President Bush's approval rate dipping lower than a jamaican dancer, the Republicans seem the least favorite in the up-coming elections. Democrats, while the lesser of two evils, seems too weak and confused to handle the fragile situation we are in internationally. That's why if Bloomberg makes a run for it, he will run as an independent candidate. That's a move that could catapult him into favorable status. Yeah, I know we're used to seeing Ross Perot running as the last-place independent party, but this is a more modern and wiser billionaire. Bloomberg has even been quoted as saying that he can easily put up to a half-a-billion dollars for a national campaign, which equals what both President Bush, and John Kerry spent combined in the 2004 presidential elections.

It's obvious that we are in a huge mess, with our international peers, we don't need another problem solver, we need a charmer. Someone who can dissolve this hatred towards our country. With Bloombergs knack for applying more modern tactics to problem solving, that could very much help calm down this Jihad waged against us. I don't trust Hillary Clinton as far as I can throw her, and Senator Mccain might just be looking to avenge his 5-years as a prisoner of war. I'm not a gambler, but what do we have to lose? I say go for it Bloomy...




New York State store-owners can now sell beer starting at 8 a.m. on Sundays, due to a new state-law. Older laws restricted alot of activities on Sundays, but now the city is loosening up. Anyone remember when liquor stores were closed on Sundays?

Two men have been indicted on several charges of operating a multimillion-dollar money laundering scheme from their apartments. The pair illegally cleaned up atleast $30 million, and have plead not guilty, now how'd these genius con-men get bagged? They were charging these people 6-figure fees to clean up their money...

Yeah, this weekend was hot! But forecasters, are predicting even higher temperatures, and to top it off, even higher humidity. In response, to the sweltering heat, New York City officials are opening cooling centers in all 5 boroughs. Starting Today at 10am, residents can call 311 or visit NYC.gov/OEM to find the nearest cooling center.

In a rare case of NYC-wtf !?, a New York City man is charged with one count of animal cruelty, after allegedly biting off his pet rooster's head. Humberto Rodriguez, allegedly bit his rooster's head off because he thought the animal was attacking his pigeons. It is illegal to possess a live rooster in NYC, Rodriguez faces up to a year in prison, if convicted.

On Saturday, 1,500 people marched across the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan, to denounce the senseless killings of Palestinians and Lebanese by the Israeli Military.

Is it the heat? The high-price of oil? or is New York not cleaning their water supply good enough, because people are acting a fool. Paul Rice, a drug-dealer, robbed another dealer [Consesson DelaCruz], and fled in a taxi-cab with money and drugs. The "victim" jumped in his car and followed his mugger, letting off one shot, but missing. Rice, realizing his life was in danger, jumped out of the cab, and called 911. Police arrived on the scene and arrested him for third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, a felony. The "victim" was also arrested, along with an accomplice.


Don't count Dame Dash out just yet, the Entertainment mogul, is executive producing a drama based on the life of Larry Davis. Dash also executive produced the new Cuba Gooding Jr. film “Shadowboxer,” and has about two other films in the works, including a fact-based female fight-club!



Heather Bratton, a fashion model, who many predicted was going to be the next big thing, died in a fiery car crash. The three-car accident left 3 others injured.




MTV is officially an adult now! The music inspired tv station turns 25 on August 1st!





This one almost flew over our heads, but I caught it just in time! Just days after announcing her split from Dave Navarro, Carmen Electra is spotted on a date with Jamie Foxx.

7.28.2006

Former St John's University and NBA star Felipe Lopez, is returning back to where it all started to help those less fortunate. Lopez has organized the Felipe Lopez First Annual Celebrity Classic scheduled for August 12th at Carnesecca Arena on the University’s Queens campus.

The star-studded celebrity event will host many familiar faces including The BeatNuts, The Human Orchestra- Kenny Muhammad, Nina Sky, Lil Romeo and Stephon Marbury, who is making his debut as a coach, with other guests and performers to be announced.

Tickets for the event are $20 and can be purchased by calling 1-888-GO-STORM or visiting the St. John’s University Ticket Office on the Queens campus at 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, N.Y. Ticket windows are located in the lobby area of Carnesecca Arena and are open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The St. John’s Ticket Office will also be open the day of the event (Saturday, August 12) beginning at 1:00 p.m.



Who would of ever thought the race for New York governor would be appealing to anyone under the age of 30? During a debate between Elliot Spitzer and Thomas Suozzi, who are both running for the Democratic Party gubernatorial nomination, the topic of Medical Marijuana was raised among others. When asked whether New York should legalize Medical Marijuana, Spitzer, who is the favorite to win, answered "No", followed by a string of boos. Suozzi on the other hand replied "Yes". Things got more interesting with the next question, both candidates were asked whether they have ever used Marijuana, with both replying "Yes". The responses drew laughter and clapping from the audience.

A New Jersey teen is dead after a night out on the town. Jennifer Moore, 18 and her friend Tara Keenan, 18, left the Guest House nightclub at around 1:30 am, only to find their car had been towed. For unknown reasons, the two seperated and that was the last time Jennifer Moore was seen alive. Police have a suspect in custody.

Star, of Star & Buc Wild fame, is off the hook apparently. The radio personality was facing many charges pertaining to Hate Crimes, after threatening another radio jockey's daughter and wife. All charges will be dropped in 6 months if Star does three days of community service and stays away from the 4 year old victim.

An Upstate, New York Idiot is under arrest after allegedly trying to brib police to release him, after speeding off to resist arrest. The chase didn't last too long, Marc Douglas, who was drunk ate a red light and crashed into a fire hydrant. While being taken to the precinct, Douglas allegedly offered the cops bribes to release him. To make matters worst, Douglas even called his girlfriend, who showed up to the precinct with $3,000 and gave the money to the officers...They were both charged with third-degree bribery, a felony. LOL!!!


Manuela Testolini Nelson, can now go by a new name...The miss' formerly known as Mrs. Prince. After being married for 5 years, Testolini Nelson has filed for divorce from singer Prince.



Pamela Anderson and Kid Rock are going on tour together! Anderson and Kid Rock who are getting married in France, will then return to the U.S. for several wedding celebrations, including one in Detroit, Nashville and Malibu.



Can someone explain to me why, baby Shiloh Jolie-Pitt, is such an iconic celebrity? Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in Times Square has immortalized Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitts offspring with a wax model! No Comment.


The heat wave in California has claimed over 100 victims, but of course most media only care about one victim, Lindsay "LooseLeaf" Lohan, was taken to the hospital while filming Georgia Rule, due to dehydration and the dry-hot weather.

7.27.2006


Today was the day when the black-outs would come to an end. Let there be light! Con Ed told Queens residents...but a few hours later, like Con Ed giveth, Con Ed taketh away, over 12,000 residents are now with out power in Staten Island.

Ending an 8-day power outage in Queens, Officials are hoping to have power up in Staten Island within the day, but that seems like prep talk. Con Ed is also asking Queens residents to conserve power, as the electrical network is still fragile in that area. It seems to be musical chairs with these black-outs, I'll bet my money that Brooklyn's next...



Federal agents uncovered an organization thats smuggled $10 million worth of a highly addictive African-grown drug known as Khat from East Africa into the New York area via Europe. 44 people have been indicted in the largest khat bust in U.S. history. Khat is a plant considered an illegal stimulant, one can chew on it and get high, it's also very addictive.

Flood victims in Upstate, NY, are calling all those who can volunteer, and help clean up the affected areas.

On Friday morning, Stand True Ministries will make a stop in New York City while on their annual summer tour. Stand True will visit several abortion clinics and deliver prayers. The group will end their walk with a 3-hour protest in front of MTV Studios in Times Square at 11am!? Whats next MySpace mass-bulletin attacks?

7.26.2006

This weeks top 5 traveling tunes:

1) Young Dro - Shoulder Lean

2) Beyonce - Deja Vu

3) Lyfe Jennings - S.E.X.

4) Nelly Furtado - Promiscuous

5) Rihanna - Unfaithful

Here's the trailer for Oliver Stone's Latest movie called "World Trade Center". The movie is centered around Will Jimeno and John McLoughlin, two Port Authority officer's who rushed into the burning towers to save people but became trapped themselves. World Trade Center features Nicholas Cage, Michael Pena, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Maria Bello and Stephen Dorff, and hits theatres nationwide August 9th.

Hundreds of homeless people living under highways, bridges, train tunnels and other make-shift homes will be aggressively removed from these locations, promised Mayor Bloomberg.

The city's Department of Homeless Services has found 73 areas, most out of sight, and very difficult to reach where over 300 homeless people have set up their own communities, mostly in Manhattan. According to figures from the city's annual homeless count in 2006, almost 4,000 homeless people live on the streets, Bloomberg has set himself to reduce that number to less than 1,500 by the time he leaves office in 2009.

Bloomberg promised not to involve any law enforcements toward the removal process, instead outreach workers will continuously visit these locations and lure these less fortunate people into shelters.

In an embarassing move that could've been a costly one, an unnamed city Department of Homeless Services employee mistakenly sent out an e-mail containing the names and social security numbers of 8,400 homeless parents. Luckily, the e-mail was only sent to homeless advocates and city officials, sparing embarassment. The City has yet to comment, or inform us if the victims will be notified. No word on whether the employee will face any disciplinary action, sources are calling this an honest mistake.



The MTA has finally delivered some good news to straphangers. Due to higher than expected tax revenues, MTA will hold off on any fair hikes until April 2007, by then our state budget should be done, almost elminating the possibility of a fair hike! Sounds to good to be true...but I'll ride with them on this one.

E-C-F%$&#@!-W! For all you hardcore wrestling fans out there, ECW is finally returning to New York City, with a live taping on August 1st at the Hammerstein Ballroom, and a second show being added for September 10th, at the Center City Sportsplex in Schenectady, NY.

Weather permitting, The Dept. Of Health will begin insecticide spraying tonight in Staten Island. Spraying will begin at 8:30pm and continue until 6:00am Thursday, near the New Dorp, Oakwood, Oakwood Beach and Bay Terrace neighborhoods.



Former N'Sync member Lance Bass, has followed R.Kelly's advice and has come out the closet! Bass, has openly admitted to being gay in a recent issue of People Magazine. His former bandmates are reportedly supporting him 100%.





Rolling Stones are back! The legendary group will perform at Giants Stadium on September 27th as part of their "A Bigger Bang" tour. Tickets go on sale Monday at 9.a.m.




A never-released song that Jimi Hendrix recorded 40 years ago will be sold at an auction in New York. The song "Station Break" was recorded in 1966, almost a year before Hendrix moved to London and found unimaginable fame. The song will be auctioned on October 26th, half of the proceeds from any royalties will go to the Hendrix Estate.


Renowned NY Press Film Critic Armond White, is honoring the work of music director, Hype Williams. Believe the Hype: An Auteur Study of Hype Williams "The Best Who Ever Did It" will be held tonight at the Lincoln Center's Walter Reade Theater starting at 8:30pm.

7.25.2006


WALTER 'KING TUT' JOHNSON, a product of Brooklyn, NY, and a career-criminal who became the first New Yorker to be sentenced under America's 'Three Strikes' provision, also one of the many the alleged killers of Tupac Shakur, is lashing out at the allegations in the September issue of King Magazine, after years of silence.

"I can understand why the Tupac fans would not like me... but I want them to know that I'm definitely not responsible for his attempted assassination, nor did I have anything to do with his assassination. Find me guilty if I'm wrong. Prosecute me to the fullest degree of the law possible... Even though I was a bad guy in my younger years, I didn't do this."

"With this story, there's only one way to find the truth: remove the lies and inconsistencies. "I guarantee that if you come into the case you will find that there have been cover-ups and smoke screening."

Johnson also states that federal agents tried to force him to incriminate Hip-Hop mogul Sean 'P.Diddy' Combs, in the murder of Tupac.

"(I was told) if you don't play ball and you don't give us Puff [Combs], you goin' down. "(I told them) I'm not testifying for anybody and I'm not testifying against anybody.

King Tut also reveals that he is working with Tupac's father, Mutulu Shakur, and family private investigator Watani Tyehimba, in their own investigation of the assasinated artist. Johnson is currently serving a life-sentence for a series of armed robberies.



A man was shot by police officers last night after officers asked a rowdy group to turn down a loud radio. An alleged scuffle ensued between a man resisting arrest, at this point police say another man, wielding a metal scooter, smacked a cop in the head. The officer responded by firing one shot, critically wounding the man. Tragic ending, but an immature beginning. Police Officers should comply with gatherings in a more social and humane way, I speak from past experiences where get-togethers turn into get-aways by police officers, for practically no reason.

Two New Jersey students died after being struck by lightning at a soccer field. Two other young men who were also at the scene, were taken to the hospital with minor injuries.

New York City will be hosting the 2006 Latin Emmy awards! The award show celebrating spanish actors, will take place on October 19th at the Time Life Building.

An off-duty New York Police Office is under arrest after firing 11-bullets into his girlfriends door. Police charged Joel Rodriguez, 26, with criminal possession of a weapon, criminal mischief and reckless endangerment.

7.24.2006


Residents in Queens can count the days they've been without electricity with both hands. The power outage caused by melted cables, was thought to have affected 2,400 people...but now Con Ed is estimating that the REAL number of affected people is more than 10 times higher than expected, and could be 100,000! While affected residents and business' had to wait it out the first few days, some power is now being restored, and Red Cross is providing free fruit, ice and water.

Even worse than not having power, is not knowing when the problem will be fixed. "It'll be done when it's done," Mayor Bloomberg told reporters. Being fair, the weather hasn't been on our side either, but it's not like we were born yesterday either, this is a recurring problem. The large scale of affected people qualifies this as a federal disaster, but NO! all they can tell us is to ride it out. The government is not going to make any reparations to those affected, and some say Con Edison should be accountable, but come on, they never take blame for these occurences, it's always the weathers fault...well June 21st-September 21st is called "Summer" for a reason!

With the New York City marathon a few months away, Wolfgang Schwerk is wasting no time preparing. Schwerk, from Germany set a new world record by running 3,100 miles around Queens in a record 41 days, 8 hours, 16 minutes and 29 seconds, beating his previous record by 29 hours, 7 minutes, 34 seconds set in 2002. Doesn't this just make you feel like you've been wasting your summer? While we've been at the beach, and/or shopping, Schwerk's been sleeping 3 hours a day, and running continually from 5 a.m. to midnight, with no days off, which is the equivalent to 3 marathons a day!

In an act of patriotism that's sure to touch everyone, four teenagers from Ohio, are walking 650-miles from Ohio to New York in order to raise $1 million for memorials for victims of 9/11. The teens plan on walking 20-30 mile hikes each day, while stopping along planned destinations, and resting on sundays. They raised $5,000 by the time they set off on the journey, and plan to stop in Pennsylvania along the way to donate 20 percent of what they've made at the time, for victims of Flight 93.

Former New York Congressman, Thomas Manton has died, he was 73.

Only in New York! A 3,000 pound replica Tomahawk cruise missile fell off a truck on I-95, near the Bronx, after being rear-ended by another motorist. The crash broke the fiberglass casing, displaying the missile to the public, and causing police to take action, not knowing that the missile was a replica and did not have a warhead. Everything worked out fine, and the missile was taken to a military base.

7.20.2006


In an effort to boost up security and prevent an attack on New York City subways, the NYPD will dispatch over two dozen German shepherd dogs to guard subway stations and sniff out explosives. The dogs are currently being trained to perform the task, which will include rescue operations, in searching for victims in case of an attack.

It's a great way to keep on the offensive on the war on terror, a far cry from the unorganized bag search the NYPD implemented. Additionally, 34 more dogs will be performing similar duties on the street. We're also approaching the 5th anniversary of the September 11th attacks, which is more reason to take a serious approach.


The City Council sided with Mayor Bloomberg in his Trash disposal plan. The plan calls for the construction of four marine transfer stations, eliminating the use of hundreds of garbage trucks and eliminating an estimated 3.5 million miles a year driven by garbage trucks. Also included in the plan is the development of a new major recycling center on a pier on the Hudson River Park in Manhattan near Gansevoort Street. The new plan seems very solid, and could possibly work, it also makes each borough responsible for its own trash. The down side is that this new cleaner system raises the cost of disposing of our garbage to $107 per ton from $77...and also sounds like this could eliminate ALOT of jobs, though they may keep people, it would be a huge change.

More GREAT news for New York! The IRS has approved of New York City's plan to grant $1.5 billion of tax-exempt bonds for the New York Yankees and Mets to build new stadiums. YES! that means each team will build new stadiums, but don't worry you wont' have to go too far to catch your favorite team, the Yankees will build their new stadium in the Bronx just north of the existing Yankee Stadium, while the Mets will build their new home right in Flushing, Queens, just beyond the centerfield fence at Shea Stadium.

The New York Yellow Cabbie is turning 100 yrs old. How will they celebrate? Well by painting flowers on the signature yellow cars. Don't laugh just yet, the drawings will be painted on by kids from schools and hospitals, as part of a project called "Garden in Transit". The kids will begin drawing in September and the paintings will run thru 2007.

Most people evacuate during or before war, but a group of over 200 Jews, including 21 families from New York, boarded a plane to Isreal...with a one way ticket. The trip was organized by Nefesh B'Nefesh, an organization promoting "mass North American immigration to Israel". More than 3000 Jews from North America And Britain are expected to make the move this summer...wow.

A Trinidadian comedian was shot and critically wounded while on vacation in Brooklyn, New York. A case of wrong place, wrong time, as the comedians car pulled up to a red light, a shoot-out ensued between two rival gangs, leaving Louis Antoine with 2 bullet wounds to his shoulder. The comedian is in stabilised but "guarded" condition.



In crazy celeb news, Britney Spears and "K-Fed" are renewing their vows because "They want to stop all the gossip"?...but thats before I read this...and why the hell would she do this?? And Justin Timberlake...a drug user!?, that's a curveball for you, but then that explains this...and isn't it nice to be rich! Tom Cruise ordered a private jet to buy groceries for his wifey's cravings!! Bobby & Whitney are still trying to convince us their marriage is still intact...Janet Jackson's giving fans the opportunity to design her new album cover. Fred Durst, is getting ready to tie the knot with his mystery girlfriend...and finally blonde princess Nicole Richie took the phrase "shop till you drop" way too serious.

7.18.2006

New York's Empire State Development Corp. has preliminarily gave the green light to a $4.2 billion sports, office and residential development in Brooklyn. The plan includes 16 skyscrapers and a sports arena that will host the future Brooklyn Nets, which currently reside in New Jersey.

The state and New York City will each contribute $100 million, with the rest being covered by developer Forest City Ratner Companies and its affiliates. This whole project still has to be approved by the Public Authorities Control Board, on the scheduled hearing date, August 23rd.

The whole plan has faced some heavy oposition from locals and celebrities. Everything has its ying and yang, but the bottom line is I believe I have done ATLEAST 75% of EVERYTHING there is to do in this city, and I feel this could rejuvenate our whole city. Look at what the baseball subway series does for New York, times that by a Knicks vs Net rivalry that's already heated, and you have a city to brag about.


Fired U.S. Soccer Manager Bruce Arena, has been hired to coach the New York Red Bulls. This is shaping up to be a star-studded team, even though they've actually never won a title...but then again look at the Knicks.

New York Police and Firefighters who risked their lives on September 11th, were given the earned opportunity of viewing Oliver Stones 9/11 inspired movie, "World Trade Center". Some viewers warned that it would be a little too much for those who experience the tragic event first hand. The movie opens up nationwide on August 9th.

Jews all around New York rallied around the United Nations in support of Israel. Supporters cheered and sang songs, followed by a speech by Israel's ambassador to the United Nations Dan Gillerman. Very patriotic and usual of a close-knit country but this is not about picking sides, its about avoiding World War III. This is a fight between two misinterpreted religions that believe they are doing the right thing for a higher being...well what about doing the right thing for human beings first. A wise man once said "All wars are civil, because all men are brothers"...couldn't of been said any better if Mr. New York said it himself.

Lance Armstrong hosted the Espy Awards, and surprisingly..atleast to me, did a great job! He tackled all subjects ranging from his cancerous "one ball" to allegations that he uses enhacers. One comment that struck close but was so funny even I laughed was when Lance joked that after retiring he went into disaster relief...followed by a picture of him and Isiah Thomas, coach of the New York Knicks. Heres that picture:

Heres the whole monologue...funny stuff lance.

Tales of a New York Limo Driver ...no seriously..a New York Limousine driver has released a tell-all of his experience with several characters he's encountered while on duty. Tales of a New York Limo Driver: Sex, Excess and Stupidity on Four Wheels tells over 70 stories ranging from One client, four strippers and nine hours in a Chevy Suburban..interesting reading.

There's been a big shake up in the celebrity love world..Avril Lavigne married Sum 41's frontman, Deryck Whibley...Pam Anderson is re-engaged to Kid Rock...Carmen Electra split with Dave Navarro...The Strokes guitarist Nick Valensi married his girlfriend Amanda de Cadenet...and finally Janet Jackson is rumored to be ready to tie the knot with current boyfriend Jermaine Dupri ...wow..

President George Bush has some memorable blunders during public appearances, but none top his most recent, which if it had not been for mics sitting on a table, would have never made it to your living room.

During the final day of the G-8 summit meeting, Bush was lunching with world leaders, and making airplane small-talk with some. As Bush and Prime Minister Blair carried on about a gift Blair gave our President on his 60th birthday, an apparently bored President, carried on with his personal opinions about the current Mid-East crisis.

"...See, the irony is what they need to do is get Syria to get Hezbollah to stop doing this shit and it's over."

"What about Kofi Annan? I don't like the sequence of it. His attitude is basically cease-fire and everything else happens."

"I feel like telling Kofi to get on the phone with Assad and make something happen."

The most interesting and hilarious moment came during an apparent conversation Bush had with an aide, regarding his speech at the summit:

No, I’m just going to make it up. I’m not going to talk too damn long like the rest of them. Some of these guys talk too long.”

Big media companies are going to milk this for all its worth, some are going to find a way to side with Bush, others are going to sell papers just by goofing the President, but the bottom line is that there are countries at war presently, and if our leader doesn't find any ethical interest in the day-to-day operation of international affairs, then its more than obvious that we are in trouble. It's shameful to see how our leader conducts himself during foreign appearances, remember, he is representing us whenever he shows his face.

Read the full script here.


UPDATE!

To make matters worse, there's actually a video to go along with the audio, check it out here.

7.17.2006


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ReachNYC.com is amazingly offering this service to business' for FREE, for a limited time only. There is no commitment, contracts or fine print. The first 200 business' with a website, to send in a 20x20 pixel logo accompanied by the URL to their website, will have the chance to participate in this offer. This offer is available world-wide, please send in a 20x20 pixel logo to rnycads@gmail.com .

Today marks the 10th anniversary of the heart-wrenching TWA flight 800 tragedy. 10 years ago to this day, flight 800 exploded in a fireball only minutes after taking off from Kennedy Airport, raining down debris onto the Atlantic Ocean.

230 people lost their lives on the paris-bound flight that day. Families and friends of victims have literally leaned on each other for support during this past decade. The gathering took place on a white-sandy beach near where the accident occured. A memorial took place, followed by a prayer service, concluded with a candle lit ceremony with the assistance of a U.S. Coast Guard aircraft fly-by. The sad night ended with the placement of a memorial-wreath in the ocean.

Nicholas Minucci, 20, was convicted and sentenced to 15 years, in the Howard Beach bat attack. Minucci's attack on a black victim was labeled a hate-crime, thus the stiff sentence.

The state Advisory Committee on Judicial Ethics seems to believe it is "ethically permissable" for Judges to bare arms while on duty. I mean, isn't the court's security system a little ridiculously on-point as is? Doesn't make one bit of sense.

For all those affected by the flooding in the Mohawk Valley and southern tier of New York counties, members of the New York State Bar Association are providing free legal services to help those affected and neglected.

An Upstate New York man is bringing summer-time beauty to us 365 days a year. Steve Lowes is growing coral reefs in his basement. The one time coral reef hobbyist, is now profiting more than one would think off these salt-water species. Get this, the coral reef industry was estimated at $6.9 billion in 2005.

AND finally, a power outage left an A-train was stranded in Far Rockaway, Queens today,leaving people helpless in over 90-degree temperature. Isn't this like everybody's nightmare? This might cause a change in your early morning commute tomorow, so take heed.

7.10.2006


Real Madrid Star Ronaldo playing in the states? Sounds believable nowadays, since the soccer star is in the states with his fiance Raica. Rumors have him visiting the New York Red Bulls front office to contemplate ending his career with MLS.

The world known Brazilian sports star would be a major PR attraction for the states, specifically New York. The Red Bulls are reportedly prepared to offer Ronaldo a staggering $100 million, three-year contract. Seems like America's ready to start cashing in from soccer's world-wide appeal. David Beckham is also pondering ending his career with MLS, another star that's guaranteed to keep the fans tuning in. If everything goes according, these would be great acquisition on behalf of MLS....but what about getting some major players on our World Cup squad?

A state appeals court ruled that New York has the right to ask for proof of legality before issuing license to immigrants.

Miss e-New York? Well that's what you can consider Staci Shands,40, after she won the Miss America International pageant, an internet-based contest for women ages 40-79. The Bensonhurst, Brooklyn native must make atleast 3 public appearances a month in order to remain eligible in the pageant. A 46-year-old from Ontario and a 48-year-old from Texas stand in the way of Shands being crowned Miss America in January. For more info Click Here.

Global Kids, a non-profit in New York, is sending 8 Global Kids Youth Leaders on a nine day trip back into the civil rights history of the United States. The group will travel to such sites as Montgomery, Selma, and Birmingham, Alabama; meeting with community leaders and experts; and volunteering with the Georgia Citizens' Coalition on Hunger in Atlanta.

Concerned city officials along with the Hip-Hop community are joining forces to stop youth incarceration. The event, consciously titled “Unlock the Future: Prevent Youth Incarceration“ is scheduled for August 12th, at Claremont Park (East 170th St. & Teller Avenue) in the Bronx, from 10am-2pm.

Seems like nothings fun anymore ever since Osama came through and crush the buildings... thousands of fans enjoying Italy battle France in the World Cup on the Adidas-sponsored Jumbotron were shooed away by officials who became alarmed at how big the crowd grew, and turned the screen off, leaving fans scurrying to the next available tube.

7.07.2006

New York's highest court sternly rejected same-sex marriages, in a decision that delivered a major blow to the gay community. The court backed heterosexual marriages to ensure that children are raised by a father and mother. New York Gov. George Pataki said he was pleased the court upheld marriage between only a man and a woman. Mayor Bloomberg on the other hand publicly supports Gay marriages.

IMO, marriage is sacred, and should be kept intact. Under similar circumstances I would have made the same decision...but done it my way. While marriage is sacred, Laws are made to benefit the PEOPLE, not just married couples. I would extend an open hand to the gay community to take part in benefits shared by married couples such as the right to inherit, maybe...maybe even try to let them enjoy tax benefits, and other legal benefits enjoyed by heterosexual marriages. It's not a right or wrong, it's tradition and the Gay community should understand and respect that, no one has the cojones to step up and speak, but it should be said. Don't break marital tradition, just bend laws.


Most people use tree's to predict change of seasons. New Yorker's are used to full trees with healthy green leaves in the summer and anorexic stumps with orange/red leaves falling off in the winter. Scientists have developed a cloning technique that allows oaks to develop their own root system, opening up a new trend that will certainly model every urban street nation wide; urbanite trees. These Tree's will be able to survive all year-round. The tree's are grown with the sole purpose of withstanding various chemicals and extreme weather found in city's such as New York.

The plants shown in the picture above, have now grown to over 6 feet. These hybrids will be tested in Long Island, and other parts of New York State later this year. I am definitely a fan, pending they don't cost an arm and a leg. Besides trees take up carbon dioxide and release oxygen right? Priceless. For more info Click Here.


New Yorker's have 10 million more reasons to feel safer while commuting to work everyday, after the Bush Administration boosted New York transit anti-terror funds by $10 million. The $37.5 million already in use by the MTA, will rise to $47 million. The money will go to the transit systems current subway, Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North security programs.

The Broadway Smash, The Lion King, which debuted in 1997, has broken its own one week box office record, for both eight- and nine-performance weeks, with $1.2 million. The first record was made on opening week, with $1.19 million. The show has amazingly been viewed by an estimated 34 million people worldwide!

Nokia has been chosen as the ambassador to help provide free Wi-Fi access in New York City Parks. The networks currently being installed will cover 10 major parks in New York City, including Central Park, Union Square Park and Corona Flushing Meadows.

The New York Mets and MTA have teamed up to release more than one million metrocards branded with The Mets brand. Metrocard and Mets.com will also co-sponsor "Pedro Martinez Mouse Pad Night at Shea", tonight, July 7th, where the first 25,000 fans in attendance will recieve the mouse pad. The two organizations are also providing many incentives to fans who ride public transportation to Shea Stadium, for more info click here.

Its mind boggling, to hear that a disturbed man got a hold of two power saws left by idle transit workers, and slashed open another mans chest. The victim, a postal worker is in critical but stable condition. It's really a sad time, something's got a hold of people, and it's not looking good...these are the ends of time. Chainsaw massacre...in New York..? naaaah

7.04.2006

Have a happy and safe Independence Day [4th of July].

If you want to catch the Macy's fireworks display, it will begin at approximately 9pm. If you're looking to catch the action here's where:

The fireworks display will be televised nationally on NBC.

Brooklyn/Queens: Nice views from Hunter's Point, Queens, Greenpoint, Brooklyn, and anywhere with an clear view of the East River between 23rd & 42nd Sts.

Manhattan: Southbound lanes of the FDR drive from 14th to 42nd Street will be open for the public from 7:30pm to 10:00pm. On-ramp entrances for pedestrians (including the disabled) are located at 23rd, 38th, and 42nd streets. The FDR Drive will be closed to traffic between Houston St. and 63rd St. from 7:00pm until 1:00am.

Watercraft: All spectator vessels in the East River must stay south of the Williamsburg Bridge or north of the Southernmost tip of Roosevelt Island. Vessels in Newton Creek should stay east of the Pulaski Bascule Bridge. For additional information, mariners should contact Macy's Marine Hotline at (212) 494-5247.

For more information, call Macy's Hotline at (212) 494-4495.


Bethlene Pancoast, can now officially call herself Miss New York, after beating 21 others in Watertown. The 24 year old, Brooklyn resident and NYU student was impressive enough to be chosen to represent our state.

Pancoast's first stop will be Los Angeles in September to take part in Miss America. I guess the newer generation didn't find the pageant interesting, so a reality series is being filmed on the preliminary rounds. Ultimately, Miss New York will compete in the Miss America Pageant in Las Vegas in July.


Hip-Hop Diva, Kimberly Jones aka Lil Kim was greeted with cheers from supporting fans, who came to welcome back the 'Queen Bee' after spending the last 10 months in a federal detention centre, after being convicted of lying to a federal grand jury. The rapper will remain on house arrest for the next 30 days, and will be on supervised release for the next three years.

An off-duty Corrections Officer pulled out his department issued weapon and shot another man. The life threatening incident occured after the two men argued...over a car. Fortunately the victim is in stable condition. It's the weather I tell you.

Aspire to Inspire: the Continental Pedal; a team of cyclists are on a 32,000 mile journey around the globe to raise awareness for global concerns. The team made a stop in New York City on Sunday, and are already 2,000 miles into their journey which they estimate should take 18 months to accomplish. They all hope to raise $50,000 each for four charities, while trying to set 3 Guinness World Records. To learn more about Aspire To Inspire or make a donation, click here.

Mayor Bloomberg spent $85.1 million on his re-election, zooming past every candidate in history, sans presidential contenders, in campaign expenditures. This also confirming that he broke his own record of $74 million from his successful 2001 campaign. No need to worry, every penny came out of his own wallet, compared to the $9 million spent by his opponent Democrat Fernando Ferrer, which came mostly from your pockets. Its nothing new under the sun, and definitely not illegal, but seems kind of childish....no?

New York City is looking to crack down on LandLords who trap tourists into booking unfit apartments labeled as hotel rooms, only after many tourists began taking notice and complaining. At a nightly rate of $150, there's no way long term tenants can compete for the apartment, making many furious and leaving only one person happy and that's the landlord. The City's Building department announced the formation of a new task force to combat the problem.

7.02.2006

Bob Marley has found a new permanent home...in Brooklyn. The busy street of Church Ave., between Remsen Ave. and E.98th St., has been co-named Bob Marley Boulevard. On Saturday, Members of Marley's family including his son former Miami Hurricanes Linebacker Rohan Marley, Jamaica's first female Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller and other foreign dignitaries and Jamaica's Consul General to New York, Basil K. Bryan along with local politicians attended the festivities, which went on for hours.

In an effort to curb smoking and its deadly effects, The chair of the City Council's health committee, Joel Rivera, introduced a bill that would make the legal age to purchase tobacco in New York City, 21 years old, matching up with the legal drinking age.

Last year, New York State proposed raising the legal smoking age to 19, but that never took off. I don't see one year making a difference, in fact I see it as very ridiculous, if they're going to raise the legal age for buying tobacco products, might as well make a statement and make it 21. The proposal is said to be supported heavily by Mayor Bloomberg, who also supported the ban on smoking indoors.

Statiscally New York already boasts a lower rate of teen smokers compared with the national rate; 11% of City High School students smoke, compared to 23% nationwide. I think this can come back and kick alot of people in the rear, most youngsters will be tempted to smoke, just because its "illegal", as is the case with most teens who drink. 18 is a fine age, because its up to consenting young adults to make decisions, there's enough spoiling going on. So does that mean that more young people will go to New Jersey for a smoke? There are too many factors to consider.

If you caught the Late Show with David Letterman on Thursday, or NBC's Today Show on Friday, you might have been entertained by Fritz Grobe and Stephen Voltz, a pair from Maine who've had a sweet claim to fame...literally.

When you see Grobe and Voltz don their trademark white lab coats and goggles, you can't help but take them very serious, until you see the items they experiment with; one 2-liter bottle of Diet-Coke and 4 Mentos candy. Thats it.

By inserting the 4 Mentos into the Diet Coke, a Geyser effect is created, in which soda comes rushing out of the bottle in volcanic fashion. As simple as it may seem, its actually entertaining, and mind boggling to see 4 small mento's create this display. The pair will be touring select cities displaying their sweet show...until their 15 minutes of fame are up, that is.

Here is a clip of the two in action:


The National Hockey League is considering staging a regular season hockey game outdoors. The Game would feature the New York Rangers versus the New York Islanders, with Yankee Stadium being considered as a possible home for the event.

If accepted by the teams and Yankee Stadium, the game would take place on January 1st. This is not the first time the NHL has played an outdoor hockey game, in 2003 the Canadiens beat the Oilers 4-3 in front of 56,000 fans at Edmonton's Commonwealth Stadium.

Flooding in upstate New York has forced President Bush to declare 8 New York counties as federal disasters. Though rain and flooding affected over 13 counties, only 8 were declared of disaster magnitude. Gov. Pataki lashed out at the federal response, while announcing a $35 million state emergency package. Pennsylvania and New Jersey also had areas affected by rain, and considered disaster areas.

New York City is looking for owed back-taxes from the Indian government, after India allegedly used real estate for non-diplomatic purposes. The lawsuit stems from 20-floors of a 26-floor skyscraper owned by India, and used as apartments, which the city wants to tax. PAY UP!!

Former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik has pleaded guilty to accepting thousands of dollars in gifts, while he was in charge of the city's Correction Department. $165,000 dollars in renovations to his home from a construction company??? Failing to report a loan as required by the city's law?? These incidents don't seem isolated, and sound more like bribes as opposed to "gifts". But i guess it's only cheating...if your caught. They let him go with a slap on the wrist.

A Tornado touched down in Buffalo, NY, flipping a truck and a construction trailer with a worker inside, no serious injuries reported.

New York Rangers sign Matt Cullen.