MTA's January Fare Hike Sparks Outrage after Delay

Trivia Question❓

Which building in Manhattan was the tallest in the world when it was completed in 1931?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

'Horrifying' video reveals new details about NYC gunman's movements

MTA Reveals Plans for Fare Hike in January Despite Initial Delay

The MTA has decided to postpone fare hikes previously planned for 2025 until January 2026.

Some tolls will increase by 7.5%, with subway and bus fares going up by 10 cents.

The MTA will also transition to the OMNY system and cease selling MetroCards.

The final budget for 2025 includes a summer fare hike, and congestion pricing will begin in the new year.

The MTA aims to close a loophole allowing some riders to ride for free by changing the railroad ticket activation process.

Public hearings and a final board vote will precede the fare hike implementation.

Four New York City-area hospitals have ranked among the nation’s top 20 in the 2025-2026 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” list, highlighting the region's excellence in patient care and medical innovation.

Mount Sinai Hospital extended its streak on the “Honor Roll” to ten years, with top-10 placements in five specialties and high performance across all measured procedures.

NYU Langone Health led the nation with four specialties ranked No. 1, covering neurology, cardiology, pulmonology, and geriatrics, reinforcing its reputation for specialty expertise.

NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia and Cornell continued a 21-year run among the best, earning top-five ranks in seven major specialties.

Hackensack University Medical Center became New Jersey’s first to enter the national top 20, recognized for outstanding patient-centered care.

Other standouts include Memorial Sloan Kettering, named best for cancer in the Northeast, and the Hospital for Special Surgery, once again No. 1 nationally for orthopedics.

This recognition cements the NYC area as a healthcare leader nationwide.

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Gramercy Tavern – A New York Culinary Landmark

Located at 42 E. 20th St., Gramercy Tavern has been a staple of New York's dining scene since 1994.

Co-founded by Danny Meyer and Tom Colicchio, the restaurant is now helmed by Chef Michael Anthony, who brings a seasonal, farm-to-table approach to New American cuisine.

The menu features dishes like Citrus Cured Fluke, Hay Smoked Gnocchi, and Roasted Duck Breast, showcasing the best of local produce and proteins.

The Tavern offers a more casual, à la carte menu with favorites such as the acclaimed Gramercy Tavern Burger, made from a 70/30 chuck/brisket blend and topped with Shelburne Cheddar, smoked onion aioli, and house-made pickles.

Four Killed in Manhattan Office Shooting, Including NYPD Officer

A devastating shooting at 345 Park Avenue in Midtown Manhattan Monday night claimed four lives, including a New York City police officer, and left one person critically injured.

The shooter, 27-year-old Shane Tamura from Las Vegas, entered the building with an M4 rifle, opened fire in the lobby, and continued to the 33rd floor before taking his own life.

Officer Didarul Islam, a dedicated NYPD officer and father, was killed while working security off-duty.

Victims also included Wesley LePatner, a senior managing director at Blackstone, Julia Hyman of Rudin Management, and Aland Etienne, a security officer.

A 41-year-old NFL employee was seriously wounded but is now in stable condition, with ongoing support from the league.

Authorities revealed Tamura had mental health challenges and left a note linking his motives to chronic traumatic encephalopathy and grievances against the NFL.

Community memorials, increased security reviews, and calls for mental health and gun control reform reflect the city’s response to this tragedy.