In a Sept. 14, 2025 Empire Report op-ed from Albany, N.Y., Gov. Kathy Hochul warns of escalating political violence and urges leaders and voters to lower the rhetoric, reject dehumanizing language, and hold public figures to account. Citing recent attacks and threats, she argues that social-media amplification fuels extremism and says speech carries real-world consequences. Hochul outlines New York’s prevention strategy: strengthened red-flag protections, enhanced monitoring of credible online threats, and local Threat Assessment and Management (TAM) teams now operating in 52 counties plus New York City, with more than 2,000 interventions. Invoking the post-9/11 spirit of unity, she says democracy depends on debate—not bloodshed—and calls for collective action to stop violence before it starts.
ICYMI: Governor Hochul’s Op-Ed in Empire Report: Political Violence Deserves No Place in Our Democracy — And It’s on Us to Stop It.
Today, Empire Report published an op-ed by Governor Kathy Hochul about the alarming rise of political violence in America—and the responsibility we all have to to stop it.
An assassination attempt on President Trump. The assassination of Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and the shooting of State Senator John Hoffman. A plot to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer and a firebombing at the home of Governor Josh Shapiro. The violent attack on our Capitol on January 6. And now, the assassination of Charlie Kirk.
These are not isolated incidents. They are part of a disturbing and increasingly common pattern of political violence. And unless we take action, it won’t stop here.
Over the course of the past few days we’ve rightfully seen leaders from both sides of the aisle forcefully condemn the horrific violence that bore out in Utah on Wednesday. But we’ve also watched voices declare war on their fellow Americans and fan the flames of anger, no doubt contributing to the ensuing rise in swatting threats across the country at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and political offices.
All of us as Americans, but especially those in positions of leadership, must grapple with the fact that we allowed ourselves to reach a place where a growing number of people believe that using violence against those we disagree with is acceptable.
In an age defined by viral rhetoric and algorithmic amplification, the line between speech and violence has become increasingly blurred. Social media algorithms reward provocative, emotionally charged content. And as a result, extremist narratives are shared, liked, and recommended — not because they are truthful, but because they drive engagement.
And then here we are — in a feedback loop, where extreme language spreads, often unchecked, and someone eventually pulls the trigger.
What makes this pattern especially insidious is its built-in deniability. Because we often describe the perpetrators of these heinous acts as “lone wolves,” those whose rhetoric radicalized or mobilized them to violence can claim they can’t be blamed for actions they did not directly command. This shields the radicalizer from responsibility, even as the violence catalyzed by their language becomes more and more frequent.
Some will argue that this is an attack on free speech. I call B.S. The First Amendment protects citizens from government censorship, but it does not shield those of us in the public spotlight from accountability. Freedom of expression should not become a smokescreen for promoting hate or encouraging violence.
We must move beyond the fiction that speech exists in a vacuum. When influential voices frame opponents as less than human, they create the conditions in which violence becomes justifiable.
At this point however, identifying the pattern is not enough.
First, leaders must commit to toning down their rhetoric, and everyday Americans must hold us all accountable. There should be consequences at the ballot box and in the court of public opinion when we don’t.
Second, we must take real steps to try to help those who may be on the path towards violence, to turn around and walk the opposite direction.
During my first year in office, my hometown of Buffalo was rocked by the racially motivated murder of 10 Black New Yorkers who were targeted simply because of the color of their skin. In the wake of that tragedy, I knew that the only way we could possibly stop these horrors was to reduce the chances an unstable violent individual could possess a weapon by increasing our red flag laws, ensure law enforcement had the tools they need to monitor online threats, and embrace a prevention model that leverages comprehensive, multidisciplinary interventions to stop violence.
In New York, this approach is embodied by the creation of local Threat Assessment and Management (TAM) teams. They can include law enforcement, mental health professionals, school officials, large employers, the public safety net, and health care systems. Together, they assemble the puzzle pieces to identify behaviors that can ultimately lead to violence.
52 counties plus New York City now field TAM teams and have collectively intervened in more than 2,000 cases. Considering the rage and vitriol that is flooding the internet and airwaves, our objective is to prevent violence before it occurs — responding after the fact isn’t enough.
This week I stood on sacred ground to honor the lives of those lost 24 years ago on 9/11. I thought about what happened on September 12, 2001, when — in the face of unspeakable horror — our nation’s greatest strength was its unity.
I urge New Yorkers and Americans to harken back to that same sense of unifying purpose. Political violence has no place in America. A democracy thrives on debate, not bloodshed.
As broken as our nation can feel at times like this, I still believe to my core that the ties that bind us are much stronger than the forces that seek to tear us apart. Most of us, no matter where we fall on the political spectrum, have the same dreams: a safe place for our kids, our work, to have fun, and to live with a sense of purpose and dignity. That’s the America I hold in my heart, and I believe it should exist in everyone’s heart.
So in this moment, let us come together and resolve to forge a safer, more tolerant world, not just for today, for our children and our grandchildren. We have work to do, but as always, New Yorkers and Americans are up for the challenge.
Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted more than $10.1 million in New York State funding to upgrade law enforcement technology across the Capital Region, spotlighting a $387,000 award to the East Greenbush Police Department for radios, drones, night-vision gear, and dispatch center improvements. The Governor said these investments—part of $127 million in statewide tech grants—are helping departments modernize operations, boost officer safety, and better link and investigate crimes. She also pointed to a 45% decline in shooting incidents in GIVE jurisdictions year over year and underscored a broader safety strategy that includes GIVE, SNUG, youth employment, and Project RISE. The message: targeted funding, modern tools, and community programs are reducing crime and strengthening public safety in New York’s Capital Region.
A rush transcript of the Governor’s remarks is available below:
I’m going to take a moment to shift gears and talk about our efforts to drive crime down — not just all over the State, but particularly here in the Capital Region.
And I’m really proud to be here today with members of the East Greenbush Police Department. We have our great Chief of Police — been chief for seven years, a member of the force for 31 years — Chief Elaine Rudzinski. Let’s give her a round of applause. Our Supervisor, Jack Conway — appreciate all he did, and we had our shared experience about what it’s like on a town board. I spent 14 years as a town board member, and I understand the power of local government to do good for people’s lives, and I want to thank him for his years of public service as well.
And also, we have our District Attorney, Mary Pat Donnelly. We have been through a lot of battles, on the same side, as we worked to change discovery laws and make sure that we had common sense policies so they could do their jobs and protect our communities. She also is the president of the statewide District Attorneys Association. I want to thank our District Attorney for joining us as well.
And also, the men and women of this police force, second to none. I had a chance to meet a number of them. Dedicated. Some, fairly new on the job. Some, been here as long as 40 years. That, to me, is the ultimate in public service. And I thank them and all their colleagues for making sure that they work hard to keep us safe.
Keeping safe people safe is my number one priority — I’ve said it a thousand times and I’ll say it again. And I also believe that dollars, investments make a real statement about your commitment. It’s not just words, it’s real dollars to support that. Last year, we delivered $127 million in grants to help local agencies upgrade their police technology with the most advanced tools that money could buy.
Again, I was on the town board. We would have loved to have the state government help us fund needed technology improvements, but we had to do it on our own. I vowed to change that dynamic when I became the Governor, and to be an ally and support local governments in particular, who are on the front lines of keeping communities safe.
I want them to be able to investigate and link crimes, put dangerous people behind bars. And here in the Capital Region, we allocated over $10 million, including $387,000 for the East Greenbush Police Department.
So earlier today, Chief Elaine Rudzinski — the first female Chief of Police here in Rensselaer County, way to go — showed me how the funding is already working. An upgraded radio console, three radios for their Shared Services [Response] Team. I was just in the vehicle that is the one that’s there when the crises are the most frightening, and the technology that they can use to launch drones from there. New computers and monitors in the dispatch center. And as I mentioned, the drones we saw on display here, the night vision goggles and helmets, just to name a few. And it’s already played a critical role in keeping our region safe, with better communication between departments and people here on the ground.
But technology alone is not enough to keep a region safe. Since I’ve taken office, four years, we’ve invested over $3 billion in State and local law enforcement, $21 million here in the Capital Region for key programs. It’s all about not just money for technology, but you have to create a whole ecosystem of safety and security. That meant $5 million for our GIVE initiative, which is directly responsible for getting guns off the streets. $2 million for our SNUG program, which is violence disruptors who are literally on the ground, in the streets, creating connections, particularly with young people, showing them an alternative path. $2.7 million for youth employment because the best crime fighting tool is a job, no matter your age. And $2 million for Project RISE, supporting community organizations that offer mentorship, mental health services and proven interventions to reduce crime. And I’m here to say, it’s working.
Shooting incidents in the Capital (Region) GIVE jurisdictions have declined by 45 percent since last year alone. That’s extraordinary. If we fund our police, give them the support they need, the respect they deserve, connect people to the resources they need, we can effectively fight crime — and the numbers bear that out.
Now, unfortunately, we’re seeing a different dynamic in Washington where the administration has gutted billions of dollars intended to go for law enforcement. Here, they’ve cut almost a million dollars — a million dollars less because of those cuts here for our law enforcement community. And they’re threatening the slash funding from critical programs such as Hazmat, tactical teams, canine teams and search and rescue.
That money’s not being used to protect hard working Americans, instead, it’s being used for other purposes: beefing up ICE instead of supporting these initiatives. And what is ICE spending more of their time on? I wish they’d spend all their time on going after the worst of the worst, the heinous criminals that we were told they were going to devote their energy to. And I said, “I’ll help you. I will always help you do that.” But instead, we’re splitting up families, terrorizing people just doing their jobs.
Yesterday I was on the phone with a CEO of a small power bar company where they just endured a raid of 70 individuals. I don’t know when the trauma’s going to leave that family and those individuals who were separated, still trying to find the whereabouts of a number of moms who had infants, including one that was nursing.
My friends, we can do better than that. Let’s get that money back where it belongs in places like this. Let’s continue making a difference. Because that’s cruelty. It has nothing to do with public safety.
So here, we know our crime fighting strategies are working in the Capital Region. But as I always say, there’s no such thing as a mission accomplished sign for me. We will not take our foot off the gas. More work to do, continue focusing on what they do. And again, I’m going to say this again and again, I’m so grateful to everyone who goes to the rigors of training, puts on a uniform, knows they can be a target, not sure they’re going to make it back to their families at the end of the day, and they do it anyhow. I’m in awe of their courage. I’m in awe of their public service. And as the Governor of the great State of New York, I’m proud that you are doing what you do, because it lets me sleep better at night as well. So thanks to all of you.
And with that, let me turn it over to Chief Rudzinski to speak more about how we’re fighting crime here in East Greenbush.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced 20 recommended additions to the State and National Registers of Historic Places, spotlighting New York’s diverse heritage from a c.1750–1870 Pine Street African Burial Ground in Kingston to community-driven affordable housing like Brooklyn’s Fulton Park Plaza developed by Jackie Robinson, and Buffalo’s McKinley Parkway Historic District, slated to be the state’s largest with 5,000+ buildings. Reviewed on September 10, 2025 by the New York State Board for Historic Preservation in Albany, the nominations span all regions and eras—public health landmarks such as the Mott Haven Health Center (Bronx), early education sites like Clifton Park’s “Little Red Schoolhouse,” and industrial and immigrant history in Buffalo and Solvay. Listing makes properties eligible for grants and state/federal historic rehabilitation tax credits; New York leads the nation with $7.17B in rehab costs (2018–2024), $16.4B in project spending since 2009, 91,386 jobs, and $1.79B in tax revenue (2019–2023)—advancing preservation, revitalization, and pride of place statewide.
Governor Hochul Announces 20 Nominations for State and National Registers of Historic Places
Nominations Represent Diverse Histories and Unique Stories Across New York State
Governor Kathy Hochul today announced recommendations by the New York State Board for Historic Preservation to add 20 properties and districts to the State and National Registers of Historic Places. The nominations include a c. 1750-1870 African burial ground in Kingston, a barn that was a creative workspace for influential historic preservationists in Newfield, an affordable housing complex developed by legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson in Brooklyn, and the McKinley Parkway Historic District in Buffalo – which is slated to become the largest single historic district in the state with more than 5,000 buildings.
“New York’s history is one of our greatest treasures,” Governor Hochul said. “These sites are more than buildings or landmarks — they are powerful connections to the people and stories that shaped our state. By adding these properties to the State and National Registers, we are reaffirming our commitment to honoring and preserving New York’s rich, diverse history for generations to come.”
The nominations were reviewed September 10, 2025, at the 200th meeting of the New York State Board for Historic Preservation. In addition to acknowledging the milestone of this meeting with a special presentation about the history of the National Register program in New York State, the board recognized the service of former board member Jay DiLorenzo and welcomed two new board appointees, Ruth Pierpont and Felicia Mayro.
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “As we work to expand and diversify listings in the State and National Registers of Historic Places, we’re looking to identify and recognize the places that help tell New York’s whole history now and into the future. With listings, historic resources become eligible for support programs that can aid in preservation and rehabilitation efforts — which encourage community revitalization and enhance pride of place. Plus, through this process, we document our knowledge about our state’s history and continue to share compelling new research with the public.”
State and National Register listing can assist owners in revitalizing properties, making them eligible for various public preservation programs and services, such as matching state grants and federal and state historic rehabilitation tax credits.
New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Deputy Commissioner for Historic Preservation Daniel Mackay said, “At the Division for Historic Preservation, we are dedicated to expanding the State and National Registers of Historic Places and to connecting communities with the resources they need to help preserve and promote these historic assets so that pieces of our past can have a meaningful role in the present. Listing in the registers is a critical step in connecting property owners with resources that can help them steward this shared history.”
New York State continues to lead the nation in the use of historic tax credits, with $7.17 billion in total rehabilitation costs from 2018-2024. Since 2009, the historic tax credit program has stimulated over $16.4 billion in project expenditures in New York State, creating significant investment and new jobs. According to a report, between 2019-2023, the credits in New York State generated 91,386 jobs and over $1.79 billion in local, state and federal taxes.
The State and National Registers are the official lists of buildings, structures, districts, landscapes, objects and sites significant in the history, architecture, archaeology and culture of New York State and the nation. There are more than 128,000 historic properties throughout the state listed in the National Register of Historic Places, either individually or as components of historic districts. Property owners, municipalities and organizations from communities throughout the state sponsored the nominations.
Once recommendations are approved by the Commissioner, who serves as the State Historic Preservation Officer, the properties are listed in the New York State Register of Historic Places and then nominated to the National Register of Historic Places, where they are reviewed by the National Park Service and, once approved, entered in the National Register. More information, with photos of the nominations, is available on the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation website.
New York City
Brooklyn Garden Apartments (Navy Yard), Brooklyn, Kings County
The Brooklyn Garden Apartments is a privately owned affordable housing complex located in the Wallabout neighborhood of Brooklyn. Built between 1929-1932 and designed by architect Frank H. Quinby, the complex was a direct result of the New York State Housing Law of 1926, which encouraged private development of affordable housing by authorizing limited-divided housing corporations (whose profits were capped at 6 percent), offering tax abatements, and allowing the use of eminent domain to assemble building lots. This project was the first development to utilize the eminent domain provision of the law and was backed by some of New York’s most notable advocates of improved affordable housing including Housing Board member Louis H. Pink, Governor Alfred Smith, and financier and philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. The complex is also notable for its garden apartment-style plan, which comprises two U-shaped buildings enclosing a central courtyard.
East 152nd Street-Courtlandt Avenue Houses, Bronx, Bronx County
The East 152nd Street-Courtlandt Avenue Houses is a public housing development in the Melrose neighborhood of the South Bronx designed by the architectural firm of Ames Kagan Stewart. The complex officially opened on August 31, 1973 and reflected local efforts to revitalize the South Bronx as part of the larger Melrose-Morrisania Study. Beginning in 1968, the New York City Planning Committee worked closely with the Melrose Planning Council (formed by residents of Melrose) to develop an urban renewal plan that would benefit their community. The planners conducted extensive surveys and held public hearings about individual urban renewal sites scheduled around residents’ availability. This process represents a successful collaboration between local government and neighborhood residents. The complex is also an example of NYCHA’s vest pocket and turnkey programs. Vest pocket housing developments were defined by their size—sites were a city block or less and the complex comprised one to four residential buildings—and were designed to minimize demolition and displacement while promoting neighborhood-scale redevelopment. The turnkey program allowed a private developer to construct a housing project and then turn the keys over to the housing authority, ideally speeding construction and reducing costs.
Fulton Park Plaza, Brooklyn, Kings County
Fulton Park Plaza is a publicly subsidized, privately owned affordable housing complex located in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn. Built between 1972 and1974 and designed by the architectural firm of L.E. Tuckett & Thompson, the complex was developed by legendary baseball player Jackie Robinson with considerable input from the area’s Black residents and community organizations. Fulton Park Plaza was the result of a lengthy and sometimes contentious effort to revitalize Bedford-Stuyvesant. During the 1960s, the city proposed an urban renewal program that would have demolished a substantial number of buildings in the vicinity of Fulton Park. The neighborhood’s network of community organizations—most notably the Central Brooklyn Coordinating Council and the Fulton Park Community Council, both championed by local activist Elsie Richardson—quickly organized against the proposal. In the end, what these groups sought, and ultimately achieved, was community input into the form the renewal program would take, who would build it, and who would operate it once completed. Fulton Park Plaza fulfilled these community requests: in form, the complex was a vest-pocket development situated on a relatively small site and fitting in with the low-scale character of the neighborhood; the architects were founding members of the New York Coalition of Black Architects; and its developer was a famed civil rights icon.
Jackie Robinson Houses, New York, New York County
The Jackie Robinson Houses, constructed in 1973-1974, is significant for its association with public housing programs in East Harlem after World War II and specifically for its association with the history and development of a small area in northeastern Harlem known as the Harlem Triangle. In the post-war period, East Harlem witnessed an unprecedented number of new public housing projects, many championed by Robert Moses, who, after taking charge of the city’s public housing program, formed the Mayor’s Slum Clearance Committee in 1948. The committee gave him license to deem vast areas of the city as slums, raze them, and build large new public housing complexes in their place. Within this era of mass demolition and building, a city report condemned the tiny Harlem Triangle as “one of the most blighted and rundown areas in Harlem … and wholly unsuitable for housing.” This designation led to the city’s efforts to level the area and redevelop it with industrial resources. Beginning in the 1960s, two local groups, the Community Association of the East Harlem Triangle (CAEHT) and the Architects’ Renewal Committee in Harlem (ARCH), took a strong interest in the area’s future and worked to thwart the city’s plans, which faced strong opposition from residents. CAEHT, led by prominent activist Alice Kornegay, and ARCH, led by important African American architect J. Max Bond, fought the neighborhood’s designation as “blighted and run down,” forcing the city to amend its urban renewal plan to permit housing on the periphery of the triangle. In 1966, CAEHT partnered with ARCH to create the East Harlem Triangle Plan, which gave voice to residents’ concerns and proposed new redevelopment plans that favored those who lived there. Although the East Harlem Triangle Plan was never completely developed, the Jackie Robinson Houses emerged directly from it. The building was designed by Bond, Ryder and Associates and composed of two of the most prominent Black architects in New York City, J. Max Bond Jr. and Donald P. Ryder.
Messiah Lutheran Church, Staten Island, Richmond County
Located on Staten Island, the Messiah Lutheran Church is an example of Late Gothic Revival ecclesiastical architecture designed by architect Leonard Burd. Built in 1931, Messiah Lutheran served as a place of worship for Scandinavian settlers of Annadale and their descendants as the only church in the neighborhood for most of its lifespan. Historically the church was a center of community activity and aid in Annadale. The church was home to various Scandinavian, Lutheran, and non-sectarian cultural and social organizations and played a major role in youth education and development.
Mott Haven Health Center, Bronx, Bronx County
The Mott Haven Health Center was one of fourteen neighborhood health centers built by the City of New York during the Great Depression/New Deal era. First proposed in 1931 and opened in 1937, the building was designed by architects William H. Gompert and Kenneth M. Murchison. The neighborhood health center movement began in the early 1900s when New York City created thirty health districts intended to reduce mortality and morbidity rates – especially in the city’s densely populated tenement areas such as Mott Haven. During the Great Depression, fourteen of these districts received purpose-built health centers funded by the Public Works Administration (PWA). The Mott Haven building is architecturally notable for its Modern Classical style. The exterior design fused a modern sensibility with classical forms and featured a symmetrical buff-brick and limestone façade with stylized ornament including bronze grilles and spandrels with medical iconography. The interior was organized into functional quadrants devoted to specific types of preventative care (i.e. maternity and infant care and dental services) and sicknesses (i.e. tuberculosis and venereal services). Of particular note is the double-height light therapy room, where tuberculosis patients were exposed to natural light that could eradicate disease-causing microbes. The building is also significant for its later history as the Lincoln Detox People’s Program, a drug rehabilitation program established by a group of revolutionary doctors and community organizers in the early 1970s. At a time when drug users faced rampant stigmatization and discrimination, the program helped generate national recognition of acupuncture—a natural, chemical-free healing option—as an accepted drug addiction therapy.
St. Paul’s Methodist Episcopal Church, Staten Island, Richmond County
St. Paul’s Methodist Episcopal Church, located in the Tottenville neighborhood, is connected to the early growth of Methodism in Staten Island where it served as a hometown church that fostered a strong sense of altruism and community. Built in three separate campaigns (1859, 1862, and 1961) the church is notable for its Romanesque Revival ecclesiastical architecture, use of brick instead of more commonly used wood for its construction, stained-glass windows with Masonic symbolism, and a rare and elaborate Felgemaker pipe organ from Germany.
Long Island
Corwith-Jones Farmhouse, Southampton, Suffolk County
The Corwith-Jones Farmhouse is a Greek Revival style residence in Southampton’s historic Hayground area. The house was built for the Corwiths – one of the earliest English families to settle in the Bridgehampton area – and it represents the evolution of a vernacular Long Island “Half House” that was expanded and adapted to reflect the owner’s increasing affluence and changing needs. The home’s center wing was likely built between 1800-1820 and the main block was likely built following an 1843 fire. In 1866, the farm was sold to the Hand family, who raised potatoes. In 1908, it was sold again to the Jones family, who bred swine. The property was sold to Katharine Parsons Feibleman in 1967, who was a professional member of the American Institute of Decorators. Her restoration work sought to return the house to a more historically appropriate Greek Revival appearance while adapting it to modern living standards.
Capital Region
Chestertown Historic District Boundary Increase and Amendment, Chestertown, Warren County
The original Chestertown Historic District – three adjacent properties located along U.S. Route 9 (Chestertown Main Street): the Fowler House (1837), the Church of the Good Shepherd (1884), and the former Chester High School (1912) – was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. The expanded district adds 161 contributing resources across a 154-acre area that comprises the core of the hamlet of Chestertown, capturing its evolution from a milling and tanning hub into a summer resort community. It includes a mix of residential, civic, commercial, and religious architecture in a variety of architectural styles from the 1830s to the 1960s. The district has had minimal infill and, despite some material alterations over the years, retains its appearance and feeling as a rural village nestled in the eastern Adirondack Mountains.
School No. 5 “The Little Red Schoolhouse,” Clifton Park, Saratoga County
School No. 5 “Little Red Schoolhouse” in the Town of Clifton Park was built in 1903 and is historically significant for its association with one-room schoolhouse education during the formative years of New York’s public education system. School No. 5 offered public education to the Clifton Park community until its closure in 1953, when 22 schools were combined to form the Shenendehowa Central School District. After a brief period of disuse, a local group of parents purchased the Little Red Schoolhouse in 1960 and formed the Clifton Park Nursery School Cooperative Preschool, which continues to occupy the building today. Of the original schools that combined to form the Shenendehowa Central School District, the Little Red Schoolhouse is the only one that retains historical integrity and continues to function as a school.
Mid-Hudson
Pine Street African Burial Ground, Kingston, Ulster County
The Pine Street African Burial Ground in the City of Kingston is locally significant as the city’s first burial ground for enslaved people, their descendants, and free persons between 1750 and ca. 1870. The burial ground, located at 157 Pine Street and portions of adjacent properties, was established by the Trustees of Kingston in 1750 and was used until ca. 1870, when the site became a lumberyard. The site later became a residential property in the early twentieth century. In 1990, the burial ground was reidentified upon the discovery of bones in the adjacent property, and comprehensive archaeological evidence was gathered in 2018 and in the early 2020s by the SUNY New Paltz Archaeological Field School. Harambee Kingston, a non-profit community organization, purchased the property at 157 Pine Street in 2019 and established a cultural center and museum that interprets the history of the Pine Street African Burial Ground. Given limited historical information – specifically regarding the histories of African enslavement and African Americans in Kingston and the mid-Hudson Valley more broadly – further archaeological and historical documentation of the site has the potential to contribute significantly to knowledge of these histories.
Central New York
Pozzi Building, Solvay, Onondaga County
Constructed by inventor, businessman, and padrone of the local Tyrolean community Angelo Pozzi in 1917, the Pozzi Building is a landmark in the Village of Solvay and served many purposes over the years, including as a residential hotel, a grocery, a café/saloon, a savings and loan company, and an oil and lubricant business. The red brick building design emulated classical details of larger Colonial Revival hotels emerging in major cities at the time, lending a stylish dignity to the Pozzi family’s business enterprises. The building served as an immigration gateway to generations of men from Pozzi’s homeland, which was once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and became part of Italy after World War I. Pozzi helped these men travel and find jobs at the Solvay Process (later Allied) plant across the street, while renting rooms and providing various services to them. The building’s commercial spaces remain substantially intact, as do the upstairs lodgings. The building remained a popular local dining and gathering spot through the closing of Allied in 1985.
Roswell Beckwith Sr. House, Cazenovia, Madison County
Built in 1804, the Roswell Beckwith Sr. House in the Town of Cazenovia is a 1 ½ story, center-chimney, timber-frame house with walls of wooden clapboards. The interior of the house retains integrity to its initial 1804 plan and appearance, with much of the original Federal period features and detailing intact, including its large, center chimney with cooking hearth and bake oven. The house is one of the town’s oldest existing buildings and is architecturally significant as an early example of dwellings constructed by the first settlers arriving in Cazenovia from New England.
Southern Tier
1883 Barn, Newfield, Tompkins County
The 1883 Barn on Elmira Road in the Town of Newfield began life as a substantial Victorian era hay barn in the early 1880s, but between 1965 and 1977, two pioneering historic preservationists of the region, Victoria Romanoff and Constance Saltonstall, purchased the barn and used it as a laboratory for developing skills, experience, and ideas for future and more public endeavors. Romanoff and Saltonstall rescued the local landmark to serve as their seasonal residence and private art gallery. Newspapers covered the barn’s conversion and later art exhibitions which raised the public profile of historic preservation regionally. The women went on to consult and work on major early historic preservation projects throughout Tompkins County including Ithaca’s Boardman House and Clinton House. The barn’s conversion reflects the broader ethos of this particular era, when historic preservation aligned with a counter-cultural movement that embraced a return to the land, traditional folkways, and environmentally and economically conscious reuse.
Johnson City High School, Johnson City, Broome County
The Johnson City High School, on Main Street in Johnson City, is one of three examples of outstanding Tudor Revival Style public high schools designed in the 1910s in the triple cities of Binghamton, Johnson City, and Endicott. Features such as its low-slung pointed entry arch, turrets with pepper pot domes, and surface patterning all lend the structure a rich set of references to the English Renaissance. Prominent local architect C. Edward Vosbury designed two of the three, including the nominated buildings. Johnson City High School is an intact example of standardized school construction from the 1910s. Schools from this period followed state and national regulations aimed at safety concerns, responding to theories about optimizing student health and preventing school fires. Among other features, the interior was configured with rows of classrooms on each floor’s north and south sides, with a central corridor running through the center of the building from the east entrance, reflecting the school design standards of this period. While the east wing was constructed in 1914, the plan was completed with the addition of the matching west wing in 1928. At the same time, a compatible gymnasium was added at the rear of the building. The Johnson City High School retains outstanding integrity of its exterior design and many historic features and finishes on the interior.
Western New York
Beth Jacob Cemetery, Buffalo, Erie County
Beth Jacob is the last surviving Jewish cemetery within the City of Buffalo. Located on the city’s East Side, it is a rare and tangible record of the religious, cultural, and social practices of Buffalo’s Orthodox Jewish immigrants – particularly those from Russia and Lithuania – who settled in Buffalo from the 1880s through the 1920s. Beth Jacob Cemetery offers insight into the migration experience, communal organization, religious life, and artistic expression of identity and memory. The cemetery reflects popular and mass-produced American grave makers from the late nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries, illustrating adaptation by the Jewish immigrant community to American funerary tastes, but applying unique Jewish symbolism and inscriptions to reflect their cultural and religious identity. The burial practices, configuration, marker typology, gravestone symbolism, and the cemetery’s location offer insights into evolving religious affiliations, immigrant assimilation, and community cohesion. While earlier Jewish cemeteries in the city have vanished beneath urban infrastructure, or moved to Pine Ridge, Beth Jacob Cemetery remains an important physical reminder of the Jewish heritage of Buffalo’s East Side.
Buffalo Lounge Company Building, Buffalo, Erie County
The Buffalo Lounge Company Building, located in the City of Buffalo’s Hydraulics/Larkin neighborhood, is an example of heavy timber-frame fireproof mill construction and was a site for two major businesses. The Buffalo Lounge Company built the sprawling four-story brick-clad building in 1901 to house its production of upholstered furniture. Noted for its high-quality materials and construction techniques, Buffalo Lounge sent its furniture to major dealers and department stores from Maine to Virginia and as far west as Cleveland and Pittsburgh. As consumers’ ability to purchase suites of fine living room furniture declined during the Great Depression, the company’s fortunes waned until it went out of business in 1934. Craver-Dickinson Seed Company purchased the building and used it as a warehouse and distribution center. Both a major importer of seeds from abroad and a vendor of more common products like pine tree seeds and bluegrass seeds, Craver-Dickinson thrived at the location into the mid-1980s.
Iroquois Door Company Building, Buffalo, Erie County
The nation’s first professional female architect, Louise Blanchard Bethune (1856-1913) designed the Iroquois Door Company Building in Buffalo’s Hydraulics/Larkin neighborhood to house the company’s factory and office facilities. An example of heavy timber-frame fireproof mill construction, it received three additions and a fourth floor by 1925, the size of the building mirroring the company’s financial success. A notable local employer of skill laborers, Iroquois Door Company prolifically produced exterior and interior architectural trim from its inception, particularly in the Craftsman and Colonial Revival Styles. The company also promoted storm doors and storm windows as a path towards energy savings as early as the late 1910s. Iroquois Door later expanded to Syracuse and Albany (its post-World War II era base) with the Buffalo building remaining at the center of its production and distribution.
McKinley Parkway Historic District, Buffalo, Erie County
The McKinley Parkway Historic District is a large, architecturally and culturally significant neighborhood that reflects the growth and development of South Buffalo. Spanning both sides of the Olmsted-designed McKinley Parkway, the district encompasses more than 5,000 buildings. The district’s location south of the Buffalo River meant that the area developed somewhat isolated from downtown Buffalo. But in the 1890s with the creation of the Olmsted Park System, access to the city center increased and the availability of near-by employers (such as the Lackawanna Steel plant) encouraged more intensive development of South Buffalo. The proximity to steel plants and grain elevators attracted a growing population of Irish immigrants and Irish Americans looking for good paying jobs and later established community centers, Roman Catholic churches, and commercial storefronts. The isolated location, development potential, and large immigrant population helped to forge a distinct community that was more suburban than was typical within the city limits. The relative prosperity and stability of the neighborhood is reflected through the repeated patterns of development that extended well into the 1960s. Notably, the McKinley Parkway Historic District is slated to become the largest National Register historic district in New York State.
Meteor Manufacturing Corporation Building, Buffalo, Erie County
A simple one-story steel and brick building just off Main Street in Buffalo’s Cold Spring neighborhood, the Meteor Manufacturing Corporation Building was built in 1923 to serve as an auto repair shop alongside the many other automotive-related businesses in the neighborhood. It is primarily significant, however, for its use between 1935 and 1958 as the incubator workshop for two businesses that later went on to flourish and move to larger facilities. The first of these, the Sponge-Aire Seat Company, pioneered vehicle seats made from shock-absorbing foam rubber, lending more comfort to the driver and passenger experience than the previous bouncy coil-based cushions. The second company, the Meteor Manufacturing Corporation, produced miniature wrench and ratchet sets that enjoyed nation-wide distribution via mail-order advertisements in magazines, as well as quirkier items such as gumball machines and cheese slicers. Both companies received patents for their inventions, as well as military contracts. The Meteor Manufacturing Corporation Building embodies the sort of modest and affordable mid-twentieth century space where invention could pave the way for entrepreneurial success.
State Senator José M. Serrano said, “Congratulations to the 20 properties and districts being recommended to be added to the State and National Registers of Historic Places! The 29th Senate District proudly represents two of the recommendations, East 152nd Street-Courtlandt Avenue Houses and the Mott Haven Health Center, both in the Bronx. Thank you to Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Board for Historic Preservation for recognizing the unique and diverse stories that these nominations represent throughout New York State.”
Bronx Borough President Vanessa L Gibson said, “The story of East 152nd Street-Courtlandt Avenue Houses reflects the history of our great borough,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson. “I want to thank Governor Hochul and the New York State Board for Historic Preservation for valuing our local legacy and taking steps to preserve it for future generations.”
Summary: On September 11, 2025, in Albany, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a three-bill package designed to deliver targeted, operational relief to stakeholders affected by 9/11. A.2123-A/S.1165-A (“Ignazio Giacalone Act”) strengthens the public-sector talent pipeline by awarding additional civil service exam credits to children and siblings of NYC sanitation workers who died from 9/11-related conditions; A.8417/S.8181 modernizes governance by reconstituting the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force with new appointments, biannual meetings, expanded study scope, a reset reporting deadline, and an extension through June 10, 2030; and S.4554-A/A.5458-A streamlines benefits administration by allowing the NYC Police Pension Fund to rely on a timely Notice of Participation to establish World Trade Center rescue/recovery service, accelerating disability and death benefit determinations for eligible responders and families.
On September 11, 2025 in Albany, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a package of 9/11 laws to expand support for survivors’ families and first responders: A.2123-A/S.1165-A (the “Ignazio Giacalone Act”) grants extra civil service exam credits to children and siblings of NYC sanitation workers who died from 9/11-related illnesses; A.8417/S.8181 revitalizes the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force with new appointments, twice-yearly meetings, broader study areas, a reset annual report deadline, and an extension through June 10, 2030; and S.4554-A/A.5458-A streamlines World Trade Center disability and death benefit claims by allowing the NYC Police Pension Fund to rely on a timely Notice of Participation—ensuring eligible responders and their families receive benefits faster.
In Honor of 9/11, Governor Hochul Signs Legislation To Support Families of 9/11 Victims
Legislation (A.2123-A/S.1165-A) Bolsters Pathway to Public Service for Children and Siblings of Deceased NYC Sanitation Workers
Legislation (A.8417/S.8181) Revitalizes the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force
Legislation (S.4554-A/A.5458-A) Expedites the World Trade Center Disability and Death Benefit Application Process
On the anniversary of September 11, 2001, Governor Kathy Hochul announced today that she has signed legislation to expand access to resources and provide more opportunities for the families and loved ones of those who have been impacted by the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The package of bills will revive and strengthen the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force, bolster the pathway to public service for children and siblings of New York City sanitation workers who lost their lives due to exposure and cleanup after September 11th, and expedite the World Trade Center disability and death benefit application process to ensure survivors are eligible to obtain vital benefits.
“The 9/11 terrorist attacks are events that we will never forget. We must continue to honor the fallen heroes who put their lives on the line to protect New Yorkers, as well as their families who have been impacted by these horrific events,” Governor Hochul said. “This legislation will give back to the families of 9/11 victims, ensuring they are supported by the state and their loved ones are forever remembered.”
Governor Hochul signed the following bills into law:
Legislation A.2123-A/S.1165-A provides children and siblings of NYC sanitation workers who have died from 9/11-related illnesses and injuries additional civil service exam points for a position located in the municipality where their deceased parent or sibling served.
Legislation A.8417/S.8181 revitalizes the September 11th Worker Protection Task Force by requiring new appointments to the taskforce, setting a biannual meeting requirement, expanding areas of study, resetting the June deadline for the annual report and extending the provisions of the act until June 10, 2030.
Legislation S.4554-A/A.5458-A expedites the World Trade Center disability and death benefit application process by allowing the NYC Police Pension Fund to rely on a timely and properly filed Notice of Participation as requisite criteria for establish participation in rescue, recovery and cleanup operations at the World Trade Center, unless an employer proves otherwise.
State Senator Robert Jackson said, “September 11th forever reshaped our city — but it also revealed the courage and sacrifice of those who stood up when it mattered most. Among this legislative package are two bills I am proud to sponsor: the Ignazio Giacalone Act, which ensures that the legacy of sanitation workers who gave their lives lives on through the children and siblings who follow in their path of public service; and the revitalization of the 9/11 Workers Protection Task Force, which guarantees that the health, benefits, and dignity of those who answered the call will never be overlooked or forgotten. Alongside the other measures in this package, these bills turn remembrance into responsibility, and grief into justice. I thank Governor Hochul for signing them into law and standing with us to uplift the memory and the rights of 9/11 victims and their families.”
State Senator Monica R. Martinez said, “For responders of the September 11th terrorist attacks, the pain of that day has never faded, nor have the physical and emotional burdens they’ve carried in the years since. Deputy Sheriff Richard Stueber served with honor at Ground Zero, but the toll of that commitment was the loss of his life and a financial hardship left to his family. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this legislation to provide Stacie Stueber with the benefits her husband earned through his service and sacrifice.”
State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton said, “Every year on this day, New York feels the weight of the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center, but no one more so than the brave first responders who returned to Ground Zero day after day, putting their health on the line for our city. For them, 9/11 is something they grapple with every day, not just through memory, but through the countless health complications that have arisen for them since. The least we can do is make sure they receive the benefits they earned through their dedicated service, which is why I introduced this legislation to cut through all the existing red tape. Securing these benefits has been an uphill battle for too many 9/11 first responders, and I’m proud that on this 24th anniversary, Governor Hochul signed my bill into law. Now every officer who risked everything to protect our city — and their families — can access the benefits they deserve.”
Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato said, “I applaud Governor Hochul’s leadership by signing these bills into law, including A.8417 which strengthens and extends the impactful work of the 9/11 Task Force, along with A.5458 which will allow for survivors and heroes from that horrendous day to be eligible to obtain the vital benefits they deserve. It’s clear that when New York says we’ll never forget — we mean it. May the memories of those we lost forever be a blessing, and God bless those who saved lives that day, and helped in the aftermath.”
Assemblymember Joseph DeStefano said, “Today’s bill signing is about justice, compassion, and keeping faith with those who answered the call after 9/11. Deputy Sheriff Stueber gave everything he had to his community and his country, and this law ensures that his family will finally receive the benefits he earned. This legislation is a promise kept — that New York will not forget its 9/11 heroes. It is a pledge to the Stueber family and to all first responders that their service and sacrifice will always be honored.”
Assemblymember Sam Berger said, “As the youngest member of the Assembly, I believe it is my generation’s duty to ensure the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten. This bill honors the legacy of sanitation workers like Ignazio who put their lives on the line for New York. But more, signing this bill into law is a statement from New York State that we see you, we thank you, and we will never forget your heroism and your sacrifice. Thank you, Governor Hochul, for recognizing those brave New York sanitation workers and paving the path for those children who choose to follow in their footsteps.”
Police Conference of New York President Michael O’Meara said, “On this 24th Anniversary of 9/11 we want to thank Governor Hochul, Senator Jackson, Senator Scarcella-Spanton and Assemblywoman Pheffer-Amato for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of our community of first responders and their families who were forever affected by the horrific attacks on September 11th. They continue to support us, not only in their words, but in their actions. Thank you.”
New York State Public Employee Conference Chairman Peter D. Meringolo said, “On behalf of the 95 member units comprising the New York State Public Employee Conference, collectively representing more than one million active and retired public employees, many of whom participated in the rescue, recovery, and aftermath of the 9/11 attack on our country, I thank Governor Hochul for signing these important bills into law. Enactment of this legislation once again exhibits her true commitment to the working men and women who dedicate themselves to public service.”
New York City Sanitation Officers’ Association President Joseph Mannion said, “We are very pleased with the passage of New York State Senate Bill 1165-A / Assembly Bill 2123-A, which provides additional credits to children and siblings of New York city sanitation members who died in the performance of duty as the natural and proximate result of the World Trade Center attack on September 11, 2001. On behalf of all NYC Sanitation Officers, our sincere thanks go out to Senator Robert Jackson and Assemblyman Sam Berger for sponsoring this important legislation, and to Governor Kathy Hochul for enacting it into law.”
Michael Giacalone, a sanitation worker and the son of Ignazio Giacalone for whom the bill is named after, said, “I’m beyond grateful for the signing of the ‘Ignazio Giacalone Act.’ I want to thank the Governor, the NYS Assembly and Senate, Local 831 and 444, and NYS Assemblyman Berger. A very big thank you to Retired DSNY Supervisor Edward Panzarella. This bill would not be where it is today without his efforts. It is truly an honor to have this bill carry the name of my father.”
BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA DONALD TRUMP. A PROCLAMATION
As a mark of respect for the memory of Charlie Kirk, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, September 14, 2025. I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this tenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-five, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
Charlie Kirk, political activist and founder of Turning Point USA, was reportedly shot in the neck during a live event at Utah Valley University (UVU) on September 10, 2025, as part of his “Prove Me Wrong” / “American Comeback Tour.” Law enforcement confirmed the suspect is in custody, and Kirk was evacuated by his security team following the incident, which caused a campus lockdown and widespread reactions from political figures and media outlets.
Kirk’s visit to UVU is part of his “American Redemption / Prove Me Wrong” campus tour, which has sparked significant controversy and pushback from some faculty and students, including large petitions calling for his events to be canceled.
Turning Point USA, which Kirk founded in 2012, is a major youth-oriented conservative activist organization with close ties to the MAGA movement and right-wing political circles.
The incident unfolded amid a heated political climate, intensifying debates over campus conduct rules, security measures, and what many see as widespread hostility among students toward free speech, American history, the free market, and individual choice—attitudes they attribute to “socialist” professors. Kirk has called for open dialogue on precisely these topics, which, his supporters argue, has provoked opponents of free expression who find themselves unable to answer the straightforward questions posed by the Turning Point USA founder.
Incident Details
The shooting took place about 20 minutes into Kirk’s presentation at UVU, where he was engaging students in his signature debate format.
Multiple eyewitnesses and video footage confirmed shots were fired at the event, and Kirk appeared to be struck in the neck, prompting attendees to run for cover.
UVU police and campus officials immediately initiated a lockdown, and the suspect responsible was quickly apprehended; the shooter is reportedly not affiliated with the university.
Public and Political Reactions
Utah Senator Mike Lee posted on X (Twitter), asking for prayers for Kirk and those present at UVU.
Vice President J.D. Vance and former President Donald Trump publicly expressed concern and called for prayers on social media.
The FBI and campus security teams are actively investigating, with multiple agencies confirming their involvement and ongoing response.
Context and Background
Kirk’s visit to UVU is part of his American Comeback / Prove Me Wrong campus tour, which has attracted significant controversy and opposition from some faculty and students, with large petitions calling for the cancellation of his events.
Turning Point USA, founded by Kirk in 2012, is a major youth-oriented conservative activist organization with strong ties to the MAGA movement and right-wing political circles.
This incident occurs within a tumultuous political environment, amplifying debates about campus speech, security measures, and political polarization among student bodies.
Ongoing Updates
The full extent of Charlie Kirk’s injuries and current condition is still being determined, with news outlets indicating the situation remains fluid.
Campus officials, police, and major news agencies are providing continual updates as new details emerge.
Please join us in praying for our good friend, Charlie Kirk.
This remains a developing story, with substantial local and national attention focused on legal, security, and campus issues at UVU following the shooting.
New York Gov. Kathy Hochul said Monday that commuters have saved more than $100 million since the Metropolitan Transportation Authority expanded its CityTicket program in 2022 to cover all off-peak and later peak trains. The program, which has sold 37.2 million discounted tickets, has boosted ridership on the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North to record levels while lifting customer satisfaction and on-time performance across both railroads.
Money in Your Pockets: Governor Hochul Announces MTA Customer Savings Surpasses $100 Million With Commuter Railroad Cityticket Expansion
MTA Sold 37.2 Million CityTickets Since March 2022 Following Expansion to All Off-Peak Trains and Further Expansion to Peak Trains in Late Summer 2023. CityTicket Provides NYC Residents Greater Access to Affordable Commuter Rail Travel Between the Outerboroughs and Manhattan. Milestone Reached as Railroads Experience Record Year of Ridership and Performance.
Governor Hochul today announced that Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) customers have saved more than $100 million since March 2022 by using CityTicket to travel within New York City on the Long Island Rail Road or Metro-North Railroad. The savings are measured against the cost of regular one-way peak and off-peak tickets. This milestone comes after Governor Hochul and the MTA expanded the CityTicket program from a weekend-only option to being available on all peak and off-peak trains in recent years.
“The results are in and it is clear: expanding CityTicket has been a huge affordability win for New Yorkers,” Governor Hochul said. “For years, residents of the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens had high-quality rail service right at their doorsteps, but the fare was just too high. Not anymore. By making LIRR and Metro-North service more affordable for city riders, we have welcomed millions of new customers, getting New Yorkers out of their cars and onto fast, reliable rail service in and out of Manhattan.”
MTA Chair and CEO Janno Liebersaid, “Thirty million customers can’t be wrong – the City Ticket is a smash success, saving New York City residents $100 million, plus a faster commute. It’s another proof point that low cost, reliable transit is one of our most important solutions to the affordability crisis, especially for folks outside Manhattan.”
The savings analysis is based on ticket sales from March 2022 through August 2025. Tickets are $5 off peak hours and $7 during peak hours anywhere within New York City on either LIRR or Metro-North, significantly less than the cost of point-to-point tickets prior to the start of the program. For the Long Island Rail Road, 30.4 million CityTickets were sold, totaling a cost savings of $83.2 million. For Metro-North Railroad, 6.8 million CityTickets were sold, totaling a cost savings of $17.6 million – achieving a combined $100.8 million in savings for customers.
Between March 2022 and August 2023, the MTA collectively sold 7.5 million CityTickets. When the program was expanded to include peak trains in August of 2023, 29.7 million CityTickets were sold between September 2022 and August 2025.
At a time of surging railroad ridership across the MTA network, CityTicket expansion has seen ridership grow at city stations faster than systemwide baselines. From 2021 to 2025, monthly average ridership across the LIRR has grown 179%, while ridership grew by 183% at Rosedale, 215% at Queens Village, and 224% at Jamaica. Over 766,000 monthly riders now travel to and from Jamaica Station on the LIRR, which includes connection to the JFK AirTrain and the 168 St Bus Terminal, with connections to 10 New York City Transit and five NICE bus routes.
Bronx riders are also benefitting from more affordable Metro-North service. While overall monthly average railroad ridership grew 126% from 2021 to 2025, ridership was up 163% at Tremont and 152% at Spuyten Duyvil.
Today’s announcement comes as the railroads continue to deliver strong performance and reliability, while breaking post pandemic ridership records. The ridership highs across both railroads reflect the increasing customer satisfaction rates and record-breaking on-time performance statistics.
For this year so far, 96.4% of LIRR trains reached their destination on time, the best rate in its history, even surpassing pandemic years. Customer satisfaction with the LIRR reached 81% in the spring of 2025, up five percentage points from the fall of 2024, when it reached 76%, which was itself a six-point increase from spring 2024’s rate of 70%.
On Metro-North, 98.0% of trains have reached their destination on time this year. Metro-North continues to be the MTA’s highest-rated service with 89% of customers reporting being very satisfied or satisfied with Metro-North overall, an increase from 85% in Fall 2024. Satisfaction increased across all lines, up four points to 90% on the Hudson Line, four points to 89% on the Harlem Line, and five points to 89% on the New Haven Line.b
New York City Mayor Eric Adams, speaking Sunday at Hope City Church, blended personal testimony with a defense of his record. He recounted his upbringing, his reliance on faith, and his recent struggles while outlining achievements such as expanded broadband for public-housing residents, reduced childcare costs, new foster care supports, and record declines in crime. Adams also highlighted job growth and minority business investment, framing the city’s progress as part of a broader message of resilience and divine guidance.
Mayor Adams Delivers Remarks at Hope City Church’s Sunday Service
Mayor Eric Adams: Please be seated. You don’t stand for me, I stand for you. You know, I started to tear up when I heard that story because I’m going through some stuff, folks. I’m going through some stuff. And, but God. But God. But God.
And I remember that day, as I was sitting there, I remember that day speaking to those young people. Always showed up. Always showed up. That has been my life, showing up for us. Because growing up in South Jamaica, Queens, mommy raising the six of us, no one showed up but God. But God.
And, pastor, you know, first of all, thank you for your friendship, your prayers. And we were coming in, I was in his office, and he was telling me that during COVID, I was supposed to come to service, and I got COVID, and Pastor Monrose said, no, “If Eric comes to church with COVID, they’re going to beat him up and write all sorts of things about him.”
And pastor said, you know, I started to read it and hear, and he said, Pastor Monrose was just right. No matter what Eric does, they are going to attack him. And you have to ask yourself why, you have to say to yourselves, why we don’t read about anything Eric has done in this city. Because, in your mind, I don’t blame you when you believe that this has been an administration of nothing but corruption.
I don’t blame you if you believe that I’m a puppet for Donald Trump. I don’t blame you if you believe that we have done nothing for people of color. I don’t blame you for believing that, because the people who are supposed to tell you the story of what we have done, have done just the opposite. So let me just take a moment to just give you a brief glimpse at what we have done in this city.
Who lives in NYCHA? Black and brown people. Do you know we have free high-speed broadband for NYCHA residents? $159-$160 a month now going back into their pockets. Do you know we have, for the first time, NYCHA land trusts because the federal government moved away from NYCHA. And we included NYCHA in our housing plan like no other administration has done before in the history.
And I have walked the halls of NYCHA to deal with real issues that’s in NYCHA. And when we did our summer youth jobs, we zeroed in on NYCHA residents and young people in particular. And do you know that crime in NYCHA has finally gone down in NYCHA residences under this administration.
Who is in foster care? Who is in foster care? Six to 700 age out every year and they slip through the cracks. Victims of crimes, homelessness, mental health issues. You know what we’ve done? Six to 700 that age out every year. Do you know we’re paying their college tuition and they’re no longer aging out at 18? They’re getting life coaches until they’re 21 years old and we’re giving them a stipend to move on.
Who needs childcare? Black and brown. Do you know we dropped the cost of childcare from $220 a month to less than $20 a month? Who needs after school programs? Who’s in the Department of Education? Black and brown students. Do you know we have universal after school programs? And we have expanded pre-K and 3K so that children with special needs, autism, now will have seats. They have been ignored for years, but we’re bringing them in.
When I became mayor, Black unemployment and brown unemployment was four times the rates of whites. We dropped unemployment by 20 percent in both areas. Black M/WBEs were not receiving any of the city procurement contracts. We put $19 billion into M/WBEs. Nowhere in the country is doing it.
And you know better than I, pastor, who’s the victims of shootings? Black and brown. We took 23,000 illegal guns off our streets. We have witnessed the lowest number of shootings and homicides in recorded history of this city. Who’s on our subway system going back and forth to work every day? Even swiping the metro card and jumping over the turnstile. Black and brown. Crime in our subway system is the lowest in recorded history, when you take out the two years from COVID.
More jobs in New York than in the history of this city. More small businesses are operating in the history of this city. Our young people— I have been on Rikers Island folks, more than any mayor in the history of this city. When I got re-baptized, I could have gone to any church in the city. You know where I went to get re-baptized? I went back on Rikers Island and got re-baptized with the inmates. With the inmates.
And so, when you talk about Donald Trump, do you know I took the president to court more than any mayor in this country? More than any mayor in the country. And the White House sued me several times. Think about it. They said, well, he had your charges dropped. Please go read my indictment. Please read it. When you read the indictment, you will say to yourself, what is this?
I was facing 33 years in prison. For calling the Fire Department, as the borough president, telling them, go do a building inspection. And if you can’t do it, let me know and I’ll manage their expectations. When you read through the indictment and you align it with the fact that I told the federal government, you can’t continue to send 237,000 people into our city at a price tag of $7 billion, I was not a good Democrat. But you know what I was? I was a good mayor for the people of this city.
I couldn’t stop the buses from coming in. That was against federal law. I couldn’t allow people to work who came into the city. That was against federal law. City law required me to house, feed, clean and clothe. Everything possible, I had to do according to city law.
And when I went to Washington, I said that $7 billion is coming out of my housing dollars. It’s coming out of the money that should be going to my children. It’s coming out of the money that’s going to my seniors. It’s coming out of the money that should be going to ensure that I can decrease unemployment. They turned a deaf ear. They said, Eric, it’s like a goldstone. You’re feeling pain now, but it was the past.
This is what I was fighting against. And so, I want you to know, God is in charge. God is in charge. And I want to end with this. Back when I was a little boy, mommy was struggling to hold on to our house. And every once in a while, she would hit the number. And I would say, mommy, you know, you’re a Christian. You’re not supposed to be playing numbers. And mommy would say, “Baby, God uses who he uses.” God uses who he uses.
And so, I don’t know about you. If you knew, you wouldn’t do anything wrong. And if someone comes along and says, on the campaign trail, that’s wrong what they’re doing to that mayor. And made the determination to have their Justice Department look over the case and see what they were saying among each other about me in that Justice Department. And they come along and say, you are not going to face 33 years in prison. And people come up to me on the street and say, well, you should not have allowed that to happen. I tell them, God uses who he uses. That’s what God uses.
And so, all I know is that Hope City is the city that I’m the mayor of. And there’s hope in this city. Because your pastor is the pastor of Hope City. And you know what? I’m going to ask every pastor I meet from now on. Do you have Cash App? And I’m not even going to tell them why. I’m just going to say, do you have Cash App? And I’m going to drop the mic. Thank you, church.
On September 6, 2025, in Albany, Governor Kathy Hochul signed a sweeping package of labor protection bills to safeguard workers across New York State. The legislation strengthens collective bargaining rights, expands apprenticeship programs for renewable energy projects, and creates pathways to good-paying union jobs, while also addressing federal gaps left by the weakened National Labor Relations Board. Signed ahead of New York City’s annual Labor Day Parade, the measures reinforce New York’s commitment to workers, unions, and the clean energy transition, ensuring stronger job security, fair treatment, and safer workplaces for thousands of New Yorkers.
Governor Hochul Signs Legislation to Strengthen and Expand Worker and Labor Protections
Bill Package Includes Measure To Ensure Protections for New York Workers in Midst of Federal Uncertainty
Bills Would Lead to Creation of New Union Jobs
Governor Hochul Signs Bills To Protect Workers Ahead of New York City’s Labor Day Parade
Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation to strengthen and expand labor protections statewide. The package of bills will help create good paying union jobs and strengthen protections for workers across the state. In the absence of a functional National Labor Relations Board under the Trump Administration, the package of bills also includes legislation that seeks to preserve worker rights here in New York. The Governor highlighted the bill signings ahead of New York City’s famous Labor Day Parade.
“Our union laborers are the lifeblood of New York, working tirelessly to continue to build and uplift this great state,” Governor Hochul said. “While the Trump Administration has failed to prioritize a strong National Labor Relations Board and is dismantling unions left and right, here in New York we are taking strong action to protect worker rights and sending a clear message that we will always have the backs of New York’s workers.”
The package of bills includes:
Legislation S.8034A/A8590A which authorizes the New York State Public Employment Relations Board to assert jurisdiction over disputes between employers and recognized employee organizations if the National Labor Relations Board is unable to successfully assert jurisdiction.
Legislation S.5254/A.6612 which protects public unions from a wage reduction due to their involvement in the investigation of a violation of a workplace violence protection program.
Legislation S.12/A.779 which amends the Civil Service Law to strengthen protections for public unions during times of suspensions and workforce layoffs.
Legislation S.2457B/A3999B which establishes the Mechanical Insulation Energy Savings Program to provide grants for qualified mechanical insulation expenditures to school districts.
Legislation A.2730A requires contractors and subcontractors performing construction work for covered renewable energy systems to have apprenticeship agreements. This legislation also requires thermal energy networks to require contractors and subcontractors to have pre-apprenticeship direct entry providers registered with the New York State Department of Labor.
Public Employee Relations Board Chair Timothy Connick said, “As the current administration continues to sideline longstanding labor institutions like the National Labor Relations Board, it is more important than ever that New York State step up to defend the rights of workers and create fair venues to resolve labor disputes. PERB stands ready to fill the void left by Trump’s NLRB and protect the rights of workers and organized labor across the state.”
State Senator Robert Jacksonsaid, “Today marks a victory for the backbone of our public workforce. With the signing of my bill, S12, New York sends a clear message: collective bargaining agreements are not fair-weather promises — they are binding commitments that must endure through every challenge. This law ensures that layoffs or suspensions cannot be used to discard the rights won at the bargaining table. I thank Governor Hochul for signing this bill into law and standing with us. I am also proud to co-sponsor the companion measures signed today — together, these laws strengthen the voice of labor and uphold the dignity of every worker across our state.”
State Senator Jessica Ramossaid, “I’m so grateful to Governor Hochul for signing my bills to protect federal workers when federal safeguards fall short and to expand union apprenticeships that build the greener future we urgently need. That’s how we honor workers in New York.”
State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton said, “Thank you to Governor Hochul for signing my bill that requires contractors and subcontractors performing construction work for renewable energy systems to use apprenticeship agreements. Apprenticeship requirements will ensure workers are adequately trained in a skilled, safe, timely and efficient way. These programs provide New Yorkers with opportunities to gain access to career-track jobs, supporting families and local economies.”
State Senator Chris Ryansaid, “Today’s actions by Governor Hochul represent another strong step forward in protecting working people across New York State. From ensuring fair treatment of public sector workers during investigations or layoffs, to strengthening apprenticeship and training opportunities, this package of legislation makes clear that New York will always stand with workers. I’m grateful to Governor Hochul for including my legislation, S5254, as part of this package. As a lifelong labor leader and advocate, I’m proud to advance measures that safeguard collective bargaining rights, strengthen workplace protections, and create pathways to good-paying careers for our families and communities.”
Assemblymember Harry Bronsonsaid, “As Chair of the Assembly Labor Committee, I am committed to always fighting for the protections which New York workers have earned and deserve — good wages, the right to safe workplaces, the right to organize and select who will represent them, and the right to take action when their worker rights are threatened. With the signing of these bills, the leadership and partnership of Governor Hochul, and the support of organized labor, we are demonstrating our unwavering commitment to the hardworking families of New York and achieving meaningful protections against the Trump administration’s attack on workers. In addition, by enacting the Mechanical Insulation Energy Savings Program bill, we will increase the energy efficiency of public buildings and create workforce development opportunities through apprenticeships.”
Assemblymember Didi Barrettsaid, “By establishing apprenticeship programs across all renewable energy projects, we are ensuring New York State has the skilled workforce for our clean energy transition, while laying the groundwork for good-paying, union careers in this growing energy sector for working women and men. This is a win for our state, our planet, our working families, and our economy! I thank Governor Hochul for signing this important bill into law.”
Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato said, “New York has always stood up for our workforce. Through this legislation, and the tremendous work of Governor Hochul, New York continues to strengthen protections for unions and their employees during layoffs. We will always be a proud pro-union and pro-worker State.”
New York State AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento said, “By signing these bills into law, Governor Hochul has once again demonstrated her commitment to addressing the real needs and concerns of working people. Partnering with the Governor, I know we will continue to lead when it comes to achieving meaningful progress toward improving the lives of hardworking New Yorkers. I also want to thank Senate Majority Leader Stewart-Cousins and Speaker Heastie for their vital roles in passing these critical pieces of legislation.”
New York State Building Trades President Gary LaBarbera said, “We thank Governor Hochul for standing with the Labor movement today and signing this very important legislation. The Building Trades are proud to advocate for policies that will benefit the entire construction workforce and ensure more projects are creating pathways for individuals to earn a middle-class family sustaining job and career in a union trade. Both the Renewable Energy Apprenticeship and Mechanical Insulation Incentives legislation have been priorities for our members this year as they will produce more job opportunities throughout the industry, while providing a positive impact to New York’s economy that will help the State in lowering its carbon footprint. We applaud the Governor, Legislative leadership and the bill sponsors for their commitment and support for our unions and these respective policies.”
Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) President Mary E. Sullivan said, “We are grateful to Governor Hochul for continuing her commitment to working people by signing these bills into law. Public employees deserve to know their negotiated rights will be respected and that they can speak up to make their workplaces safer without fear of losing pay. These new protections mean stronger job security, safer workplaces and a stronger future for the people who keep New York and our communities running every day.”
New York State Public Employees Federation President Wayne Spence said, “The 54,000 members of the New York State Public Employees Federation appreciate Governor Hochul’s continued leadership and support to adjust and correct issues with the state’s Workplace Violence Law. This law ensures that both workers and employers are able to engage in the process of making all public workplaces safer. We look forward to continuing this work in the coming year as we work collectively to enhance the safety and security of all public employees.”
LiUNA Vice President and New England Regional Manager Donato A. Bianco, Jr. said, “The bright future of New York State will be powered by renewable energy, and the men and women of LIUNA stand ready to continue building this critical infrastructure that will benefit generations of New Yorkers. We applaud Governor Kathy Hochul for recognizing the resounding impact the unionized workforce has on building clean energy projects from the ground up, and the importance of the career opportunities apprenticeship provides. This legislation ensures the highest quality workforce will get the job done safely, efficiently and expeditiously, and paves pathways for New Yorkers to make their mark on the energy landscape while earning a solid, family-sustaining wage. At a time when Washington’s targeted assault on working families and the construction industry shows no sign of letting up, we express deep gratitude to bill sponsors Assembly Member Didi Barrett and Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton for showing New York will fight for both.”
NY/NE Conference of Mechanical Insulators President Thomas LeCount and Financial Secretary John Jovic said, “We thank Governor Hochul for her leadership in signing legislation to implement the Mechanical Insulation Energy Savings Program. This new program will make public buildings more energy efficient across the State, while creating access to top tier apprenticeship programs and good paying jobs. We truly appreciate the commitment to Labor and hardworking New Yorkers that the Governor, Legislative Leadership and our sponsors have demonstrated in creating this program.”
Mayor Eric Adams, Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, and Delaware State University President Dr. Tony Allen cut the ribbon on New York City’s first Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Early College Prep High School as students returned for the 2025–2026 school year. Located in Queens, the new school offers a tuition-free early college program where students can earn up to 64 college credits toward an associate degree while celebrating HBCU traditions. The opening comes as part of the Adams administration’s launch of seven new schools across the city, alongside expanded literacy and math initiatives, stricter classroom technology policies, new after-school programs, and major investments in student success across all five boroughs.
Mayor Adams, Chancellor Aviles-Ramos Cut Ribbon at City’s First HBCU Early College Prep High School, Welcome Students Back at First Day of 2025–2026 School Year
Adams Administration Opens Seven New Schools for 2025-2026 School Year. New Technology Policies, Investments in Student Success Build on Administration’s Commitment to Student Achievement Across All Five Boroughs.
– New York City Mayor Eric Adams, New York City Public Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, and Delaware State University (DSU) President Dr. Tony Allen today celebrated the return to school of approximately 1 million public-school students and staff and cut the ribbon at the Historically Black Colleges Universities (HBCU) Early College Prep High School in Queens. The HBCU Early College Prep High School — the first-of-its-kind for New York City Public Schools — will bring an innovative, tuition-free, early college high school experience to students, where they can earn up to 64 college credits for an associate degree in Liberal Arts from DSU, an HBCU. The event welcomed the first cohort of students with performances and words of encouragement while marking the beginning of a transformative school year, which will include the expansion of signature initiatives in NYC Reads and NYC Solves, the internet-enabled device policy designed to limit distractions in the classrooms, and significant investments in hiring more teachers, among other major announcements.
“We are ringing in the school year with more investments to prepare our students for bold futures. Today, we are opening seven new public schools across the five boroughs, including the first ever HBCU Early College Prep High School, expanding programs for students with autism, rolling out our first batch of 5,000 new after-school seats, and so much more as we invest in our students and families,” said Mayor Adams. “We are thrilled to start the school year with these new investments, offering schools that honor our students’ rich backgrounds and histories and meet local needs, provide rigorous instruction, and prepare all of our students for the future. Our administration is laser focused on making New York the best place to raise a family, and that starts with providing our kids with a quality education.”
“The first day of school is my favorite day of the year. As I watched my own daughter prepare for her first day of middle school, I was reminded of the tremendous trust families across the city place in us with their most precious gifts: their children. That is why we are committed to delivering on our promise to provide a world-class education that prepares every single student for success,” said Public Schools Chancellor Aviles-Ramos. “This year, we’ve opened seven brand-new, innovative schools, launched a device policy that will create more focused learning environments, and expanded our incredibly successful NYC Reads and NYC Solves programs to 186 additional schools across our system. I am beyond proud to lead New York City Public Schools in this groundbreaking work, and I can’t wait to see our students thrive throughout this new school year.”
HBCU Early College Prep High School today opened its doors for over 100 ninth-grade scholars as part of its historic first day. Led by founding principal and HBCU alumnus Dr. Asya Johnson, HBCU Early College Prep provides students with the world-class education of a New York City Public School while preparing them for life beyond high school and success in college. The school’s structure is rooted in the rich legacy of HBCUs and offers students a comprehensive experience that includes college courses, Greek life, Founder’s Day activities, Mr. and Miss Freshman competitions, Homecoming celebrations, and more.
As the school year begins, New York City Public Schools opened the doors to seven new schools in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and on Staten Island, bringing world class education, accelerated programming, and career readiness to over 500 students. With more than 1,600 schools serving diverse communities across the five boroughs, New York City Public Schools remains dedicated to reflecting these communities while upholding excellence and preparing students for success in college, career, and life, including by opening of two new FutureReadyNYC schools, bringing a reimagined high school experience to students so they can plan for a bright future with good careers.
Today also kicked off the New York City Public Schools’ new cell phone and electronic device policy, in line with the New York state mandate passed this year by the state Legislature. While more than half of the city’s public schools already had a cell phone restriction policy in place, under the revised policy, starting this school year, personal internet-enabled devices — such as smartphones, tablets, and smart watches — cannot be used during the school day by students. This work comes on the heels of multi-year consultations with school communities and alongside the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to develop well-rounded policies that meet the needs of students enrolled in New York City Public Schools.
Additionally, 186 schools across 14 districts will implement Mayor Adams’ signature curricula, NYC Reads and NYC Solves, for the first time this year, which will bring high-quality, evidence-based foundational reading and math curricula to middle school students across the five boroughs. These comprehensive programs also provide targeted resources, professional development, and curriculum enhancements for educators. The Adams administration and New York City Public Schools recently celebrated the release of new state test data revealing a substantial increase in reading and math scores for public school children in the city, between grades 3 through 8 in the 2024-2025 school year.
“As an advocate for educational equity and opportunity, I am proud to celebrate the opening of New York City’s first HBCU Early College Prep High School in partnership with Delaware State University,” said New York City Councilmember Kevin C. Riley. “This model not only prepares students for academic success but also honors the cultural pride and excellence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. By offering tuition-free college credits, we are breaking barriers and creating opportunities for our Black and Brown youth, an investment in the next generation of leaders who will shape our city and beyond.”
September 4, 2025 HBCU Early Prep 88-15 182 Street Jamaica, NY 11423 City Hall Manhattan, New York
