What's What

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill announced new regulations banning surveillance pricing at grocery stores, and blocking stores from using electronic price tags. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda and Sienna Reinders have more. The World Cup might have ended, but its spirit continues in New York City. WFUV's Mia Barth takes us to a park in the Bronx, where the community is channeling the World Cup spirit into a work of art. **EDIT 7/27/26. The reporting in this episode erroneously refers to Manhoor Shiek using she/her pronouns. Manhoor uses they/them pronouns. WFUV’s Livia Regina shares some of Young the Giant’s interview with the station about their new album. Plus, two tribute albums to Neil Young and a new record from Sylvan Esso. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editors: Tess Novotny and Nathan Ray Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The New York City Economic Development Corporation announced a new president and Board Chair. WFUV’s Anne Jackson reports. New Yorkers mourn the death of a service member from Queens who is believed to have been killed in the Iran War. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen has more. Could the federal government arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu? New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani said they should. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders spoke to a Fordham political science professor about whether the U.S. could arrest Netanyahu. Host/Producer: Sonia Weliwitigoda Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sienna Reinders Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Staten Island residents push for more road paving repairs. WFUV’s Anne Jackson has more. Requirements to qualify for SNAP were expanded by the Trump administration, and New Yorkers are now seeing the impacts. New city data shows 22,000 New Yorkers lost their SNAP Benefits last month. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen has more on the new impacts. Fordham Conversations is a series that spotlights voices from Fordham University and the work of students, professional staff, and alumni. For our series, WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda spoke with Justin Sanchez, a City Council Member representing District 17 in the South Bronx, who is also pursuing his law degree at Fordham, about how he’s incorporated the Fordham mission into his council work. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

National Average Gas prices are back up to four dollars a gallon because of the U.S./Iran war. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders spoke to some New Yorkers, to see how the increase is affecting them. As cyclospora, a tiny parasite infecting your small intestine, continues to spread, Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal demands answers from the CDC. WFUV’s Tahlia Pearson has more on the rising cases, and what’s being done to stop it. Opening and owning a small business in New York City, may soon become easier. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on the new reforms for business licensing. Spain became World Cup champions yesterday in an exciting final match against Argentina. WFUV’s Mia Barth talked to WFUV’s Sam Giangrande about the game and the tournament overall. When you ask New Yorkers who the GOAT is, they’ll probably say Jalen Brunson, but this past weekend, literal goats were in the city. Yes, like the farm animals. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen went to Riverside Park in Harlem where the goats are playing a role in keeping the city’s greenery healthy. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Lainey Nguyen and Nathan Ray Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

An air quality advisory is in effect for the tri-state area because of smoke from Canadian wildfires. Mayor Zohran Mamdani says the air quality is in the unhealthy range for the New York City region. WFUV’s Livia Regina has more. Following city-wide Rental Ripoff Hearings, Mayor Zohran Mamdani said he has the answer. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on the increased housing violations and landlord crackdowns. This week in Music News, WFUV’s Livia Regina shared some of Death Cab for Cutie’s interview with the station about their latest album. Plus, new albums from Beck and Meshell Ndegeocello. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul announced a new busway in the Bronx. WFUV’s Anne Jackson reports. The World Cup is reaching its final stage, WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda and Sam Giangrande talk about its semifinalists. At City Hall, New Yorkers testified on whether or not horses should be banned. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg spoke to people who were both against and for the potential ban. In the Financial District, Uber and Lyft drivers went on strike for due process. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda spoke to event organizers and attendees. Host/Producer: Sonia Weliwitigoda Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Sam Giangrande Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Governor Kathy Hochul signed the nation's first executive order to temporarily suspend the expansion of large AI data centers. WFUV News, Tahlia Pearson, has more on how this order will help New Yorkers with taxes. Pre-K classrooms in New York City will receive special education programs that were previously only available to grades K through twelve. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda has more on the announcement. Just off of 2nd Ave on a quiet side street in the East Village, sits an NYPD parking lot that will soon be turned into 131 affordable housing units. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen spoke with New Yorkers to see how they feel about the project and affordable housing in NYC. Bryant Park’s summer movie nights kicked off last night. Seats on the lawn are first-come, first-serve. WFUV’s Livia Regina took us to the race to get a spot. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Governor Kathy Hochul sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security to push back on ICE. WFUV’s Giuliana Guarracino with more on what New Yorkers think about it. New York City aims to launch five new tech teams to make city services faster and easier to use. WFUV’S Tahlia Pearson has more on the city’s new plan to speed up government aid. For more than 30 years, David Ippolito has performed a mix of folk covers and original songs in Central Park. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders takes us there to listen to him play, and hear about the impact he’s had on people’s lives. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Sienna Reinders Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The legionnaire’s disease cluster on the upper east side has grown to 36 cases. NYCDOH has said people that have visited the area recently and are experiencing flu-like symptoms should contact a healthcare provider immediately. WFUV’s Mia Barth explains more. Governor Kathy Hochul said she’s expanding emergency communications systems, public safety call-taking, and dispatching. Reportedly, 110 million dollars in state funding will go towards these improvements. WFUV’s Giuliana Guarracino has more. This week, Ratboys had an interview in the station about their latest album; Alabama Shakes releases a new album and Harry Styles breaks a record. Sail250 held its Fleet Week celebrations for America’s 250th birthday, with over 40 international ships docked at Pier 90. WFUV’s Mia Barth shows us the exhibit along with an interview with one of the captains present. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Mia Barth Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Mayor Mamdani announced faster buses across the five boroughs, along with improving the rider experience by adding more benches, accessibility stops and keeping the bus lanes clean. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda has more. The Round of 16 of the World Cup wrapped up and WFUV’s Sam Giangrande and Livia Regina give us who’s favored to win heading into the Quarterfinals. TrashTalkNYC, a nonprofit organization, is building community through cleaning up neighborhoods. WFUV’s Anne Jackson spoke with its founder and fellow volunteers.

A building in Midtown was evacuated due to structural issues that could lead to a collapse. WFUV’s Livia Regina reports. Two time reigning Women's Soccer League champions, Gotham FC, will have a permanent home in Queens in 2028. WFUV’s Tahlia Pearson has more. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda spoke with Brian Saville (Sa-ville), a Fordham University P-H-D student researching bees at public gardens in Manhattan and the Bronx. Host/Producer: Nathan Ray Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Heavy rain could cause flooding in New York City and the surrounding area tonight. The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the tri-state area, and flash flood warnings for parts of Brooklyn and Long Island. Governor Kathy Hochul said drivers should stay aware of water on the roads. Governor Kathy Hochul plans to invest $100 million in law enforcement technology across New York. WFUV’s Tahlia Pearson has more. Senegal fans flocked to Le Petit Senegal in West Harlem to support their team in the World Cup. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen went to the vibrant scene. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda and Sienna Reinders discuss this week’s World Cup results. Connect250 is a collaboration between NPR’s Morning Edition and StoryCorps in honor of America’s 250th anniversary. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders spoke with the founder of StoryCorps to find out what it’s all about. Host/Producer: Sonia Weliwitigoda, Sienna Reinders Editor: Tess Novotny, Nathan Ray Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Sienna Reinders Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Mayor Mamdani came to a handshake agreement with Council speaker Julie Menin this morning at City Hall on next year's fiscal budget. This will aid New York residents in affordable housing and transportation. Norway hasn’t played in the World Cup since 1998. But they just advanced to the Round of 16. WFUV’s Livia Regina heads to a historically Norwegian area in Brooklyn to see how Norwegian New Yorkers are celebrating their team. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda spoke with Justin Sanchez, a City Council Member representing District 17 in the South Bronx, who is also pursuing his law degree at Fordham, about how he’s incorporated the Fordham mission into his council work.

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has pushed to cap medicare costs for seniors. She introduced legislation to create a $5,000 cap on out of pocket costs for medicare users. She said this legislation will protect low income users and shield seniors from rising costs. New York City expanded its free swim program. It teaches kids water safety, and is now almost doubled in size, going from 10 pools to 18. Giuliana Guarracino’s WFUV went to one of the city’s pools to learn more. Senator Richard Blumenthal is going after the energy provider, Eversource. Blumenthal said the company wants to increase rates for customers. This bill would cap executive employee bonuses in years where utility rates increased faster than rate of inflation. WFUV’s Mia Barth sat down with Bernie Wagenblast, the voice of the New York Subway, to talk about her career and story. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Mia Barth Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New Jersey bus, train, and rail fares are increasing by 3-percent. The new prices will go into effect on July first. More information can be found on njtransit.com. Attorney General Letitia James announced a deed theft arrest in New York City. WFUV’s Giuliana Guarracino reports. Jackson Heights in Queens is one of many melting pots in New York City. More than 160 languages are spoken there according to NYC. gov. The blocks surrounding 82nd St. are known as “Little Colombia.” WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda went there to see how fans are celebrating Colombia in the World Cup. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Giuliana Guaracino Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigota Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The Penn Station redesign is officially in the works. The plan includes adding new walkways, track capacity, and art deco style interior design. WFUV’s Anne Jackson reports. Mayor Zohran Mamdani signed an executive order to protect New York workers from heat illness. This is the first ever order on this issue in New York’s history. WFUV’s Giuliana Guarracino has more. June is the new November in New York City. That’s according to advocates and community organizers from Open Primaries, a coalition fighting for an open primary system for elections. Open primaries mean people will be able to vote for candidates regardless of party affiliation. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg has more on their push to change the city’s election system to better represent the voting population. Hannah Hightman is a New York City-based artist who works in puppetry. Her love for the art form led her to the Jim Henson Foundation, which promotes the art of puppetry. WFUV’s Alexandra Pfau spoke with Hannah about her career as a young artist. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Alexandra Pfau Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New Yorkers welcomed the Knicks home today after their historic finals win with a ticker tape parade in lower Manhattan. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen went to the route where over a million fans gathered to celebrate. Juneteenth is a federally recognized holiday in New York. But in Nassau County, employees don’t have the day off like in other parts of the state. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg reports on a renewed push to formally recognize the day that commemorates the end of slavery in the US. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Tess Nevotny Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand criticized the Trump Administration today for the cost and national security impacts of the ongoing war in Iran. WFUV’s Anne Jackson has more The New York Primary Election is next Tuesday, June 23. But there is concern over low voter turnout among young people, especially in the Bronx. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg spoke to some young New Yorkers to find out why. More than 500 affordable housing units are coming to Central Brooklyn. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on Governor Kathy Hochul’s announcement. Every summer New Yorkers flock to Central Park to see performances of Shakespeare’s famous plays, but securing free tickets to Shakespeare in the Park usually means standing in line for several hours. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders went to Brooklyn where some people say it’s worth the wait. Host/Producer: Livia Regina Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Sam Giangrande Reporter: Sienna Reinders Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New York residents might get a tax relief check in the mail soon. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda has more. New York City will start receiving clean energy directly from Canada. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on the new sustainable energy project. People living in New York City’s supportive housing units are getting exciting upgrades. WFUV’s Mia Barth has more. Asad Dandia joined the ACLU in 2013 to sue the NYPD for surveilling Muslim Americans in the aftermath of 9/11. Dandia is now an urban historian, professor, and a guide for walking tours of the Musilm history of New York through his company New York Narratives. WFUV's Andrew McDonald went on a walk with Dandia through Harlem to talk about his life and how being a Musilm in New York has changed in the last 10 years. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Andrew McDonald Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New Yorkers will celebrate the Knick’s NBA finals win with the team’s first ever Ticker Tape Parade. The event will start on Thursday at 10 a.m. at Battery Park. Governor Kathy Hochul says 2,500 teens have been trained in her mental health program. The training is supposed to show students how they can support each other while facing mental health issues. WFUV’s Alexandra Pfau talked with Shaggo [SHAG-O], a Brooklyn based punk band, about their music and how they create safe spaces for underrepresented voices. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Reporter: Alexandra Pfau Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

With just a week until the FIFA World Cup begins, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Governor Kathy Hochul announced they will be ramping up transportation and safety protocols across the city. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports. The last time the Knicks were in the NBA Finals was 1999. That year, WFUV listeners voted “Return of the Grievous Angel,” a tribute album for Graham Parsons, as the best album of the year, and the Knicks fell to the San Antonio Spurs that year. But last night the Knicks defeated the Spurs in Game 1 of the NBA finals. New Yorkers, including Governor Kathy Hochul, are celebrating. There’s a colorful new campaign in New York City for Pride Month. Pink, white and blue text reading “Trans Rights are Human Rights,” will soon fill LinkNYC kiosks and subway screens across the city. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg sat down with Dez Stavracos, the artist behind the campaign which aims to educate LGBTQ+ New Yorkers on where they can learn what rights they have. This week in music news, WFUV's Livia Regina shares some of Jack Antonoff's interview with the station about Bleachers' new album. Plus, Phoebe Bridgers has a pop-up show in NYC and Julia Jacklin is going on tour. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editors: Lainey Nguyen and Tess Novotny Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigota Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The World Cup is quickly approaching, and the U.S. Men’s team roster was announced Tuesday at a fan event in Manhattan. WFUV’s Livia Regina takes us to the celebration. Pope Leo XIV, released a 42,000 word encyclical warning about the dangers of AI. It encourages people to learn more about AI, human compassion, and the role it plays in society. For our Fordham Conversations Series, WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda interviewed Fordham's Father Thomas Massaro about the Pope’s writing. WFUV's Livia Regina tells us about Wet Leg's new deluxe album. Plus, a new collaborative album that's anti-internet and some covers from Rivers Cuomo Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda

Governor Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani celebrated the opening of applications for the first 2000 seats of free 2-k childcare across the city. WFUV’s Mia Barth has more. New Jersey is one of six states where voters are heading to the polls for the primaries. This means each party is voting on who their candidates will be for the general election this November. But its impact goes beyond just the Garden State. The results in one district could lead to a change in who has control of the House. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen breaks it down. It costs nearly half-a-million dollars to detain one person at Rikers Island according to the non-profit Campaign to Close Rikers. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reported on the organization’s rally. WFUV’s Strike a Chord public service campaign highlights local non profits. This season’s campaign focuses on organizations that promote digital equity and access. New York City Alliance for Digital Equity is an umbrella group of individuals, organizations, and coalitions from across New York City working on digital equity and access issues. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg spoke to Nell Eckersley from the Literary Assistance Center, a professional development organization partnered with NYCADE. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New Yorkers who have 16 or more speeding violations will now have to install a GPS device in their cars. Governor Kathy Hochul said it will stop motorists from speeding and make our roads safer. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on the push for more transparency on nutrition, involving two new bills that demand warning labels next to food items on certain restaurant menus. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg breaks down the recent push to expand ranked-choice voting to general elections Governor Hochul announced reforms that will lower auto insurance rates for New Yorkers. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders reports. WFUV's Alexandra Pfau sits down with Margaret Kaufer, the co-founder and president of the Stem Alliance, an organization that works to make technology accessible to everyone. Host/Producer: Livia Regina Editor: Lainey Nguyen Editor: Robin Shannon Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter Alexandra Pfau Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a plan to increase affordable housing, protect tenants, and create investments for public housing. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders has more. Last night was the first time the public was able to see language changes Governor Hochul will make to the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. This comes among ongoing debates about energy affordability. WFUV’s Mia Barth explains. The New York Knicks are heading to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen went out in the Bronx to see how fans felt after the team’s historic series win against the Cleveland Cavaliers. With the ease of digital streaming platforms, many people don’t feel the need to own physical copies of their favorite movies and tv shows. But one shop in Brooklyn pledges two things: death to streaming – and physical media forever. WFUV’s Joseph Vizza takes us to NightOwl Video, a video store dedicated to buying and selling movies new and old, from VHS to DVD. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Joseph Vizza Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New York City is joining the state in delaying its executive budget deadline as Mayor Zohran Mamdani and New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin both call on the state to make longer-term commitments to securing more money for the city. New York Senator Kristen Gillibrand is demanding that the Trump administration provide relief for student loan borrowers. WFUV’s Jordan Donegan tells us more. Asad Dandia is an urban historian, professor, and a guide for walking tours of the Muslim history of New York who joined the ACLU in 2013 to sue the NYPD for surveilling Muslim Americans in the aftermath of 9/11. WFUV's Andrew McDonald went on a walk with Dandia through Harlem to talk about his life and how being a Muslim in New York has changed in the last 10 years. Host/Producer: Alexandra Pfau Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Andrew McDonald Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The man accused of opening fire outside the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner made his first court appearance today. He’s been charged with attempting to assassinate President Donald Trump. Bronx week is officially ready to kickoff! WFUV’s Sienna Reinders tells us what it’s all about. The World Cup will come to NYC in a few short months. Today, Mayor Mamdani and Governor Hochul announced free fan events during the soccer tournament. One New York City nonprofit is teaching kids how to use tech for more creative purposes. The Grand Street Settlement has three teen tech centers around the city where teens can learn about STEM. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen spoke with the organization for WFUV’s ‘Strike A Chord’ public service campaign. Host/Producer: Jay Doherty Editor: Robin Shannon Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Jay Doherty Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The Senate has passed a budget plan to fund ICE and Border Patrol, which will head to the House next. DHS has been shut down since mid-February as Democrats demand policy changes. WFUVs Sienna Reinders tells us about the bill. A lot that was once home to a pizza shop in Tremont, is now going to be an affordable housing unit. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda went to the scene and spoke to local city officials and project leaders. As climate change reshapes cities and raises urgent questions about the future, one new book looks to the past for answers. Ten Thousand Central Parks reimagines the creation of New York’s Central Park as a bold model for climate action today. WFUV’s Jay Doherty spoke with author and retired University of Virginia professor David Brown Morris. WFUV’s Livia Regina gives us a glimpse into how NYC musicians survive in a changing music industry and challenging economic times. This week, she interviewed the founder of Show Brain, a nonprofit organizing free rock concerts in public parks. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Jay Doherty Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Mayor Mamdani announces a transition to sustainable heating for NYCHA residents as part of its third annual Sustainability Agenda as a part of Earth Day. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg explains more. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is demanding that seniors have better access to SNAP benefits with her Senior Hunger Prevention Act. Today she is renewing her commitment to getting the bill passed. Gillibrand says the act will reduce barriers to SNAP benefits, such as complicated application and certification processes, and expand access to food delivery services for SNAP recipients. A major fire broke out yesterday in the Belmont Neighborhood, killing 2 people and injuring several more, including 5 firefighters, prompting concern from local leaders concerning this surge of fires in the Bronx. WFUV’s Mia Barth has more on the causes of these fires and new plans to handle them.

Today, the New York City Council discussed curbing youth social media usage with a series of bills. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg explains how they could impact young people. New York State legislators have extended their budget deadline due to ongoing disagreements. One of the main disputes surrounds Governor Hochul’s proposal to backtrack some of the state’s commitments towards becoming more eco-friendly. Hochul says inflation and other factors are making it harder to act on climate change. But environmental and legal experts disagree. WFUV’s Jordan Donegan tells us why. New Yorkers can make New York City greener by planting a tree for free. It’s part of an initiative by a local non-profit to increase New York City’s tree population and the benefits they provide. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders tells us how it works. Host/Producer: Alexandra Pfau Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sienna Reinders

New York State is ramping up preparations for the 2026 World Cup. Governor Kathy Hochul announcing new plans to support watch parties and small businesses during the Cup, which is set to take place in June and July, Lawmakers and community advocates say New York State budget delays are putting incarcerated individuals in danger. WFUV’S Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on the bills they want passe Tensions between the White House and the Vatican are once again in the spotlight, as President Trump and Pope Leo XIV exchange words over war, immigration, and the moral role of global leadership. WFUV’s Jay Doherty spoke with David Gibson, religion writer and director of Fordham’s Center on Religion and Culture, to better understand this moment. Host/Producer: Jay Doherty Editor: Robin Shannon Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Jay Doherty Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand says she wants to stop President Trump from putting his face and name on government property. She’s introduced a bill that would bar using a sitting president’s name, image, likeness, or signature to decorate or designate federal property or currency. Mayor Zohran Mamdani is still advocating for a plan to raise taxes on the rich. Mamdani and leading economists held a forum discussing inequality they say is driven by a failure to tax people with extreme wealth. WFUV’s Mia Barth reports. New Yorkers might have to start sorting their own mail and taking out their own trash. That’s because doormen, superintendents and other residential workers have voted to authorize a strike starting Monday if their demands are not met. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

NYC Mayor Mamdani is following through with opening city-run grocery stores that will have essentials that will be cheaper than traditional grocery stores in the city. A hearing was held to discuss the voting difficulties for detainees on Rikers Island. WFUV’s Jordan tells us more. At the Bronx River Foodway, New Yorkers can learn how to forage and harvest edible plants. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen reports. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

It has been over 100 days since Mayor Zorhan Mamdani took office. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda went to the commemoration in Queens and tells us about the new policies the Mayor plans for the rest of his term. The Stonewall National Monument can fly its pride flag again. It’s because of a court case that was decided today. The decision gives the National Parks Service seven days to permanently return the flag to Stonewall. The U.S. military has begun a blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions and putting a fragile week-old cease-fire at risk. WFUV’s Jay Doherty spoke with Matthew Huber, a geography professor at Syracuse University, to better understand what’s at stake. Host/Producer: Jay Doherty Editor: Robin Shannon Reporter: Jay Doherty Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sienna Reinders Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Many working families struggle to pick up their children after traditional daycare ends at 3:00 p.m. That's why Mayor Mamdani announced that preschool programs for 2-year-olds will operate all day and all year. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on the new plan. Over a million New Yorkers will soon have faster and safer commutes. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders tells us more about a bus lane redesign on Flatbush Avenue. Tomorrow marks 100 days of New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s term. And some New Yorkers are keeping track of his campaign promises. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg spoke to Anthony Esguerra, Angeli Julani, and Charmaine Crisostomo about Mamdani Tracker, their volunteer-run website that catalogs his term thus far. Check out mamdanitracker.nyc to learn more. What’s What Music Host Livia Regina shares some of Dermot Kennedy's interview with the station about his new album. Plus, a new Strokes album is coming soon and a Radiohead art installation will be in New York. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Home care workers announced a second hunger strike to push Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Speaker Julie Menin to ban 24-hour work days. WFUV’s Mia Barth has more. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has called the senate to vote on a war powers act to check President Trump’s power over military operations in Iran. WFUV’s Lainey Nguyen brings us more details. The delivery food app, Hungry Panda, has to repay restaurants for overcharging on fees. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg tells us how restaurants will be impacted. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Mia Barth Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

A new therapeutic housing unit is open for incarcerated individuals, which brings the Mamdani administration one step closer to closing Rikers prison. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg has more. The Deliverista Hub was created for Delivery Drivers in New York to be able to rest during their shifts. WFUV’s Jordan Donegan reports. New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling for a bipartisan investigation into one of the missile strikes on Iran. WFUV’s Alexandra Pfau explains. Host/Producer: Alexandra Pfau Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

State leaders are late to finalize the budget for the next fiscal year as negotiations continue. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg tells us more. Outdoor dining is officially back as spring weather hits New York. WFUV’s Mia Barth takes us to Arthur Ave in the Bronx to talk with diners about how they are feeling. WFUV’s Livia Regina interviews psych-rock band SKORTS to give a glimpse into how NYC bands survive in a changing music industry and challenging economic times. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Thousands of people attended the Tax the Rich rally this weekend to push the governor to prioritize the needs of working-class New Yorkers. WFUV’s Jordan Donegan tells us what she saw at the rally. Local activists and officials are pushing Mayor Mamdani to fulfill his promise to save the Tony Dapolito Recreation Center from demolition. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg tells us more about the fight to save the Tony Dapolito Recreation Center from being demolished. There is a MetroCard art exhibit in Grand Central through October. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders went to check it out and learn about how the now-retired MetroCard reflects New York’s history. Host/Producer: Livia Regina Editor: Tess Novotny/Robin Shannon Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sienna Reinders Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Mayor Mamdani has announced a free childcare center for New York City’s municipal workers. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports. WFUV's Alexandra Pfau sits down with Stan Refermat [refer-matt] from the Fordham Political Review. They talk about how affordability is weakening incumbent parties in elections. Over 8 million people marched in nationwide No Kings protests over the weekend. WFUV’s Jordan Donegan reports on the event in Manhattan. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Robin Shannon Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Alexandra Pfau Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The runway from Sunday’s fatal plane crash has reopened at Laguardia Airport. A Port Authority spokesperson said that the runway has been inspected and repaired to meet FAA guidelines. Since Monday, the plane wreckage has been on the tarmac, blocking one of the two runways at the airport. Baseball season is back. The New York Yankees defeated the San Francisco Giants 7-0 yesterday. And today the Mets are looking for a win against the Pittsburgh Pirates in the home opener at Citi Field. At the time of this recording, the game isn’t over yet so we’ll have to wait and see who wins. LGBTQIA+ New Yorkers have struggled with discrimination, finding resources, and lack of protection. That's why Mayor Mamdani created a new office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs. It strives to make the city safer and protect queer New Yorkers. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on what one local LGBTQIA+ organization hopes to see from the new office. WFUV’s Livia Regina shares some of Billie Marten's interview with the station about her new album. Plus, Willie Nelson continues the Outlaw Music Festival and Pulp releases three new songs. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Robin Shannon/Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The “Neighborhood Builders Fast Track” will shorten the approval period for affordable housing proposals by eight months according to Mamdani. Teachers at NYU could be back to work soon after reaching a tentative agreement with the university. The non-tenured faculty were striking for better pay and job security. The New York Restoration Project is giving out free trees to residents to plant themselves, especially in communities that are underplanted. The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory had its 115th Anniversary Commemoration. The names of family members and other workers who perished were read and there was a reenactment, among other activities. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Many fast food and retail workers in New York City are working unpredictable, back-to-back shifts. That’s why the mayor is going after companies that violate worker protection laws. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg tells us more about a settlement that's putting money back in service workers’ pockets. Tomorrow is Red Cross Giving Day. The organization is urging people to donate blood. WFUV’s Jordan Donegan has more on how New Yorkers can help out. Jazz Generation is a nonprofit that seeks to make jazz more accessible through youth lessons and hosting concerts around New York City. WFUV's Lainey Nguyen spoke with co-founder Rob Duguay about the value of teaching children jazz music. Host/Producer: Alexandra Pfau Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

A Bronx high school student has been released from federal custody after almost 10 months in a Pennsylvania ICE facility. Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and city immigration advocates welcomed Dylan Contreras Lopez back to NYC at a press conference today. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports. A New York judge ordered City Council employee Rafael Rubio to be deported to Venezuela. Rubio was detained by ICE in January during a routine immigration appointment and has been held without bail since. WFUV’s Siena Reinders reports. New York lawmaker and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called out the Pentagon’s budget request for 200 billion dollars to keep funding the ongoing war with Iran. Earlier today, a senior White House official told the AP anonymously that the request for more funding has been sent. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth did not confirm the exact number and said it could change. In this week’s Music News, WFUV's Livia Regina shares a sneak peek of Bahamas' FUV Live Session. Plus, Death Cab for Cutie is going on tour and Ed O'Brien talks about his new album and exciting updates for Radiohead fans. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Siena Reinders Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. pulls administration personnel of the World Trade Center Health Program to support Immigration Enforcement Agency. Secretary of DHS nominee Senator Markwayne Mullin answered questions from political leaders including New Jersey Senator Andy Kim during his confirmation hearing. The High Line is hosting a pigeon themed party this Saturday in honor of the replacement of the 21- foot pigeon statue, Dinosaur.

Tonight, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is holding its 19th annual event celebrating women's history month. The event honors women who break boundaries and create lasting change in the arts, education, and government. WFUV’s Alexandra Pfau has more. New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day parade is older than the United States itself. But each year, people are still coming out to celebrate. WFUV’s Jordan Donegan and Xenia Gonikberg report on the festivities. Family history, mental health, and the search for meaning shape a new novel, Another Kind of Fire, by Fordham biology professor Jason Morris. For our Fordham Conversations Series, Morris spoke with WFUV’s Jay Doherty about the inspiration behind the book. Host/Producer: Alexandra Pfau Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Jay Doherty Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Governor Hochul is criticizing the Trump administration for the War in Iran causing rising gas prices. WFUV’s Sonia Weliwitigoda reports. Democrats are pushing back against a proposed bill that would impact voting registration. WFUV’s Sienna Reinders reports. The Bronx Documentary Center teaches children about film, journalism, and media literacy. WFUV's Lainey Nguyen reports. Host/Producer: Jay Doherty Editor: Robin Shannon Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Rising tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran have sparked concern. WFUV’s Jay Doherty interviews historian and author Jeremy Varon about the current Iran-United States relationship. After the February snowstorm, the Mamdani administration offered to pay 30 dollars per hour for a snow shoveling shift. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg interviews Myles Toe, a NYC-based comedian, on why he decided to join one of these shifts. In Music News, WFUV’s Livia Regina shares some of Flock of Dimes's interview with the station about her new album. Plus, Ringo Starr is releasing a new album and Gorillaz is going on tour. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Tess Novotny/Ben Oppenheimer Reporter: Jay Doherty Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The conflict with Iran is entering its 4th day after the US and Israel struck the country on Saturday. Mayor Mamdani has condemned the strikes, calling it a catastrophic escalation. Four sections of New York City, including parts of the Bronx, are getting 2,000 free childcare seats this fall. WFUV’s Xenia Gonikberg explains the mayor and the governor’s plan to expand childcare in underserved areas. Food is a big part of the Jewish Holiday Purim. As WFUV’s Jordan Donegan reports, this celebration of joy was kicked off with a taste of tradition to bring communities together. This season, WFUV’s Strike a Chord public service campaign is focusing on organizations that promote arts and music education. Livia Regina sat down with the executive director of LEAP; an organization that runs art programs in schools. Host/Producer: Alexandra Pfau Editor: Tess Novotny/Ben Oppenheimer Reporter: Jordan Donegan Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker