Brooklyn

"> ">

Kota the Friend Releases Just Happy To Be Here

Independent artist Kota the Friend has released his new album, Just Happy To Be Here, a 10-track project featuring Loony and Lisa Chiodo with production from Eeryskies, Powers Pleasant, ORIGAMI, Aja Grant, MAX HE, Bobby Wooten, and Pat Finnerty. The album arrives as part of New Music Friday while Kota continues his nationwide Just Happy To Be Here Tour.

"> ">

Judge Carmen Pacheco: A Brooklyn Story

Judge Carmen Pacheco has dedicated more than three decades to serving the people of New York through legal excellence, judicial leadership, and community service. A lifelong Brooklynite, she currently serves as Supervising Judge of the Civil Court of the City of New York, Kings County, while also serving as an Acting Supreme Court Justice. Her career reflects a steadfast commitment to fairness, integrity, equal justice, and strengthening the communities she has served throughout her life.

"> ">

Voices of NYC: AI Starts With Teacher Learning

As schools rapidly adopt artificial intelligence tools, the conversation often centers on how students will use them. In this Voices of NYC commentary, Brooklyn College professor Dr. Sonia Murrow argues that the greater challenge is ensuring teachers receive the ongoing support needed to adapt their instruction. Drawing on interviews with New York City educators, she contends that while AI technology is advancing quickly, professional learning has not kept pace. Rather than relying on occasional workshops, she makes the case for sustained collaboration that helps teachers thoughtfully integrate AI while preserving critical thinking and meaningful learning in the classroom.

"> ">

Kota the Friend Announces Album Out July 30

Brooklyn's Kota the Friend, known globally for his independent success, will release his new album on July 30 while continuing his nationwide Just Happy To Be Here Tour. The upcoming project has also inspired him to showcase more of his musical background on stage, where fans are seeing him perform acoustic guitar alongside a live group of musicians for the first time. The release marks another chapter in Kota's independently built career and ongoing connection with audiences across the country.

"> ">

Farah Louis Introduces SCRIE, DRIE Expansion

A new bill introduced by New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis would expand access to the City's SCRIE and DRIE rent freeze programs by increasing the household income eligibility limit to $75,000. The proposal aligns New York City with recently approved state legislation and is intended to help more seniors and New Yorkers with disabilities remain in their homes despite rising housing costs. Supporters say the measure would reduce displacement, strengthen housing stability, and provide financial relief to residents living on fixed or limited incomes while maintaining reimbursement protections for landlords.

"> ">

Homeownership 101 Workshop for First-Time Homebuyers

A free Homeownership 101 Workshop will be held on Saturday, July 25, in East New York to help first-time homebuyers better understand the homebuying process. Hosted by 60th Assembly District Leader Michael Rosendary in partnership with Heather-Sky McField and Mylah's Organization Inc., the workshop will cover mortgage basics, financial readiness, credit, financing options, and practical steps toward achieving homeownership in New York City.

"> ">

Kings County Performs First Sensation-Preserving Surgery

NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County has successfully performed its first sensation-preserving nipple-sparing mastectomy, expanding access to an advanced breast cancer surgery within New York City's public hospital system. The innovative procedure is designed to preserve or restore sensation while maintaining effective cancer treatment, helping improve patients' long-term quality of life. Hospital leaders say the milestone reflects Kings County's commitment to bringing advanced, patient-centered surgical care to the diverse communities it serves.

"> ">

Nikki Lucas Introduces Bill for 10% Self-Checkout Discount

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

"> ">

Attorney Xavier Carr: Brownsville Roots, Public Service

Attorney Xavier Carr's career reflects a longstanding commitment to the law, public service, and the Brownsville community he proudly calls home. From private practice and the New York State court system to leadership within City government and Brooklyn's legal community, his professional journey has been defined by service, integrity, and a dedication to helping others.