Podcasts about WFUV

Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced nearly 8.5 million dollars in grants will be awarded to support small businesses across the five boroughs. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg explains more on how the grants will be distributed. Electricity bills in Connecticut may be going down soon. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda has more on Senator Richard Blumenthal potential act to tackle this. New York Yankees legend Tommy John died on Saturday night, at age 83. WFUV's Livia Regina has more on how the New York team is remembering the pitcher. An annual game of musical chairs returns to Bryant Park this Thursday! WFUV's Lainey Nguyen reported on the popular competition last year. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Nathan Ray/Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

2,000 families in New York City will now receive free childcare. Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced today that the city will cover all out-of-pocket costs for families who already receive subsidized care through the Child Care Assistance Program and pay a sliding-scale fee. This is projected to cost the city $5.2 million in the first year. New York City High schoolers now have a chance to see more broadway shows. Mayor Mamdani is giving out more than 2,000 broadway tickets through a lottery system. WFUV's Giuliana Guarracino with more. New York City has welcomed people from all over the world this summer. But for the next few days, they'll be welcoming something else… puppets. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg brought us to the first day of New York's Puppet Fringe Festival to explore how these handmade pieces are brought to life in more ways than one. The Puppet Fringe Festival features performances, art exhibitions and special events. It's on now through August 16. This week in Music News, WFUV's Livia Regina shared some of Friko's interview with the station. Plus, a new album from Caroline Rose and new rules about AI on Spotify. Host/Producer: Lainey Nguyen Editor: Tess Novotny, Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Nathan Ray Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Inflation across the nation has slowed down with gas prices going down by three percent, but prices are still higher than when the Iran War started in February. A revived busway project is coming back to Tremont Avenue after its cancellation from the Adams Administration. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg has more and what the project has in store. Unaccompanied minor children in New York will no longer have to legally represent themselves in court, following a donation from the Governor, New York City Mayor and Attorney General. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda has more. Mayor Zohran Mamdani is launching a new sports and innovation challenge through the city's Summer Youth Employment Program. Tahlia Pearson has more on how the new initiative is preparing students for careers beyond the playing field. Host/Producer: Sonia Weliwitigoda Editor: Tess Novotny Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Darren Devivo joined WFUV in September 1983, making his on-air debut on February 26, 1984. In January 1991, following WFUV’s transition to a non-commercial public radio station, he was hired as the station’s first weekday afternoon drive show host/DJ. From that point, he occupied all weekday air shifts – including morning drive, middays, afternoon drive, evenings and late nights. Darren has nearly 42 years of experience hosting these air shifts that were part of WFUV’s regular daily programming. During those years he conducted hundreds of artist interviews, emceed countless concerts and other live events, hosted many on air “specialty” shows – including his own album spotlight show in the 1990s – and more. He was the station’s assistant music director for a short span, as well as the music promotions director. I also wrote the station’s weekly “New Dig” (WFUV’s new album of the week) album overview that was published on wfuv.org. Darren currently hosts “Noises From The Valley” on the Hudson based radio station WKZE on Fridays from 7 — 11PM. By way of full disclosure, Filmwax Radio host Adam Schartoff is the Director of Operations at the same station.

New York's recycling data is in the dumps, according to a new audit by the state comptroller. WFUV's Lainey Nguyen has more. The Bronx Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with Optimum to give Bronx businesses around $150,000 in grants. Tahlia Pearson has more on how the grant can help improve small businesses that would most benefit from the extra funds. New York families are receiving food assistance to make sure no kid goes hungry in the summer time. Governor Kathy Hochul highlighted today that this summer, more than 1.8 million children have received food assistance through the summer EBT program. The World Cup might have ended, but its spirit continues in New York City. WFUVs Mia Barth takes us to a park in the Bronx, where the community is channeling it into a work of art. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Mia Barth Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Chambers Street is getting a renovation that'll tackle excessive heat temperatures at the Brooklyn Bridge - City Hall / Chambers Street station. WFUV's Tahlia Pearson has more on the city's plan to store heat from the underground station and recycle it to local buildings nearby for the Winter. Uptown in the South Bronx, Lincoln Hospital is getting a hearty update. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda explains the upgrade. Only the Bronx and Brooklyn have official flags; Staten Island is trying to join those ranks. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg reports on the borough's push to be officialized. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

A recent poll by The Associated Press shows that Americans' lives were being impacted by the extreme heat. Giuliana Guarracino's WFUV went out into the Bronx to ask residents how their lives have changed due to the heat, and the impact it is having on them. Several New York families sued the city over last summer's Legionnaires' outbreak in Harlem. Attorney Ben Crump and the Reverend Al Sharpton announced four lawsuits today. WFUV's Sienna Reinders has more. This week in Music News, WFUV's Livia Regina shares some of St Paul and the Broken Bones' interview with the station. Plus, a live album from Bonnie Prince Billy and a new single from Kam Franklin. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Tess Novotny and Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

This fall, 2000 2-year-olds will be enrolled in the city's free 2-K Program. WFUV's Mia Barth has more on New York City's efforts to provide more affordable childcare. In Connecticut, Governor Ned Lamont announced a virtual grocery card that allows those who lost their SNAP benefits to buy food. WFUV's Sienna Reinders explains who's eligible and how it'll work. At City Hall, Speaker Julie Menin spoke this morning for action against illegal sales of E-Bikes in New York City. WFUV's Tahlia Pearson highlights safety concerns and advocates' calls to reduce deaths and injuries. In Newark, New Jersey, another death was reported at Detention Center Delaney Hall. WFUV's Lainey Nguyen tells us about the situation and its call to close the detention center. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

New affordable and supportive housing units are in the works in the Bronx. WFUV's Anne Jackson has more. The end of summer is primary season. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg breaks down the key races to watch and why this election is different from previous ones for the state of Connecticut. This month, there's quite a few astronomical events that can be seen from New York City-but how do hopeful stargazers drown out the city lights? WFUV's Livia Regina spoke with the Amateur Astronomers Association, a nonprofit that promotes studying space, to find out how, and why, to see the stars. A larger than life hot dog sculpture was on display in Times Square. It was created by two local artists, and it's meant to represent themes in American politics and culture. WFUV Cityscape host Sienna Reinders spoke to the artists behind the artwork and went to Times Square to check it out. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Lainey Nguyen and Nathan Ray Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sienna Reinders Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Governor Kathy Hochul plans to enforce existing New York laws. That includes prioritizing police inspections of firearm dealers to make sure they're complying with state regulations. It also means expanding an interstate task force to combat illegal guns crossing state borders. WFUV's Livia Regina reports. The Senate voted down New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's bill to end the war in Iran. WFUV's Lainey Nguyen has more on the decision. 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 students on the anniversary of Fordham's logo change. This week in Music News, WFUV's Livia Regina reports on tributes to Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard. Plus, some of José González's interview with the station. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Tess Novotny/Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Upgrades are coming to the subway. WFUV's Lainey Nguyen has more on the MTA's plan to address pain points for one of the city's most used transportation options. A vacant lot is being turned into almost one-thousand new apartments in Queens. And two-thirds of the units will be affordable for extremely low to moderate income households. It's part of “Block by Block,” Mayor Zohran Mamdani's housing plan for New York City. WFUV's Sienna Reinders reports. In January, New York City passed a series of laws to protect delivery workers. Mayor Zohran Mamdani says those laws are working. WFUV's Livia Regina has more on a new report about how pay for delivery drivers has gone up. Storefront vacancies rose nearly 30% between 2020 and 2024 in New York City. Yet rental prices mostly stayed the same. A new small business report suggests commercial landlords are intentionally leaving storefronts vacant so they can sell them instead of renting. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg has more on how small business owners are responding. On June 25th, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court voted in a 6-3 ruling to end Temporary Protected Status designations for over 6,000 Syrians and more than 300,000 Haitians. Final protections expired on Monday, July 27, 2026. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda has more. Host/Producer: Sonia Weliwitigoda Editor: Tess Novotny / Nathan Ray Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

In a statement on X, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said he will block President Donald Trump's push to rename Penn Station. He added that it's a public building paid for by taxpayers. And that it belongs to the 600,000 people who walk through the station every day. WFUV's Sienna Reinders has more. Protecting children online will soon become easier in New York State. WFUV's Mia Barth explains the final regulations for the SAFE for Kids Act to keep children out of algorithmic feeds. Mayor Zohran Mamdani launched a new sports and innovation challenge through the city's Summer Youth Employment Program. Tahlia Pearson has more on how the new initiative is preparing students for careers beyond the playing field. The results are in: 63% of New Yorkers satisfied with the overall subway system. A slight increase from last year, according to the MTA. But others still want to see improvements to lessen delays, and renovate train cars and stations. WFUV's Lainey Nguyen went to the D line, which is the line that New Yorkers are least satisfied with. Host/Producer: Nathan Ray Editor: Nathan Ray, Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

Knicks fans can get a glimpse of the 2026 Championship trophy starting today. A replica will be on display at the American Museum of Natural History. It's part of the museum's “For the Win: Objects of Excellence” exhibit that highlights how precious metals are used to celebrate victory. WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg has more. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda reports on a New York City initiative to lower the price of ingredients at city-owned grocery stores. New bus lanes are coming to Fordham Road. City. Officials said that the redesign could cut bus travel times in half. WFUV'S Tahlia Pearson spoke with commuters about their thoughts on the new plan. More than 600 restaurants across the five boroughs are participants in New York City's Restaurant Week. But only four of those are in the Bronx. WFUV's Livia Regina stopped by some Bronx restaurants to find out why. Host/Producer: Mia Barth Editor: Nathan Ray Reporter: Xenia Gonikberg Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Tahlia Pearson Reporter: Livia Regina Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

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

In a press conference, Kathy Hochul announced pushback against the Trump Administration's lawsuit against the state due to restrictions on ICE. WFUV's Anne Jackson explains the ordeal and what officials are going to do about it. The second week of the World Cup has concluded, and WFUV's Livia Regina and Sam Giangrande highlight what has happened and who's in contention to advance to the knockout stage or be eliminated. In Harlem, WFUV's Lainey Nguyen went to Accra Express, a Ghanaian restaurant, to learn how they're celebrating the World Cup through the power of food. Host/Producer: Sonia Weliwitigoda Editor: Tess Novotny & Nathan Ray Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sam Giangrande Reporter: Lainey Nguyen Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

It's Election Day in NYC and WFUV's Xenia Gonikberg takes us through key races throughout the city. Only 7% of inmates at Rikers Island voted in the last election. WFUV's Sienna Reinders went to a rally urging the Board of Elections to create a polling site for Rikers Island. In Hoboken, NJ, WFUV's Lainey Nguyen met Dylan Zajac, a Gen-Z entrepreneur who refurbishes used computers and donates them to people in need. His work at Computers 4 People has donated more than 5,000 computers and reached more than 12,000 people. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Tess Novotny Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Lainey Nguyen 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

The New York Knicks won at Madison Square Garden last night against the San Antonio Spurs in a close, 1-point game. Ahead of Game 5, WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda went to MSG to hear New Yorkers' thoughts on the games. The 2026 FIFA World Cup starts today. According to FIFA, 6 billion fans are tuning in to the games. WFUV's Giuliana Guarracino explains more on what to expect. Ahead of the World Cup games in New Jersey this weekend, Mayor Zohran Mamdani held his first morning broadcast, which he plans to do throughout the games. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda has more. This week in music news, WFUV's Livia Regina shares some of Gogol Bordello's interview with the station about the band's diverse influences. Host/Producer: Sienna Reinders Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigota Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Giuliana Guarracino Theme Music: Joe Bergsieker

The Knicks are playing in Game 3 of the NBA Finals at Madison Square Garden tonight. The NYPD has ramped up security at MSG due to President Donald Trump attending the game. Watch parties outside of the venue have been canceled, and TSA-styled security checkpoints will be all around the Garden. Restaurants are also preparing for fans to watch the game at 8:30. Construction began for the 2nd Avenue Subway project. It will extend the Q line into Harlem and East Harlem. This comes after the Trump Administration reinstated funding for the project. Governor Hochul said the project is on track for service to begin in 2032. The World Cup kicks off its first game this Thursday with matches at the NYNJ Stadium on Saturday. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda tells where to watch the final championship game. This past weekend, more than a hundred community gardens in New York City opened their gates to the public. WFUV's Livia Regina stopped by some of the gardens in the Bronx to learn about how they act as community spaces. Host/Producer: Xenia Gonikberg Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Anne Jackson Reporter: Sienna Reinders Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Giuliana Guarrancino Reporter: Livia Regina 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

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

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

The House passed a bill to fund the Department of Homeland Security. Money will go to departments like TSA but not immigration enforcement operations. DHS has been unfunded since February, as Democrats demanded changes to ICE and Border operations. Republicans are now trying another way to get ICE funding through a weeks long budget reconciliation process. For now, this package will head to President Donald Trump's desk to sign, ending the longest agency shutdown in history. On Tuesday, NYC's first full casino opened in Queens after years of trying to get a license. Two more are planned to be built in the coming years. Community members are rallying against the new casinos this weekend, as they said the new casinos are being built in minority and working class neighborhoods. WFUV's Sonia Weliwitigoda spoke to a rally leader. Mayor Zohran Mamdani wants New Yorkers to take part in public hearings through a new program. Its first target is to make sure both renters and landlords have their voices heard at upcoming hearings that decide prices for rent stabilized apartments. WFUV's Mia Barth reports. Some young people in New York and New Jersey can go to the 2026 World Cup for free. Airbnb said they're giving out 1000 tickets to kids. They're working with nonprofits in the two states to select lucky ticket winners. The company also said it expects Airbnb owners in the region to be housing 25,000 people during the games. For this week's Music News, WFUV's Livia Regina gives us a sneak peek of Iron & Wine's interview about their new album. Plus, City Parks foundation announced the lineup for this year's SummerStage Festival. Host/Producer: Lainey Nguyen Editor: Lainey Nguyen Reporter: Mia Barth Reporter: Livia Regina Reporter: Sonia Weliwitigoda Reporter: Sienna Reinders 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

On this week's show, Dana, Steve, and Dan Kois get into cultural topics of various scales. First, they examine The Christophers, the latest film from Steven Soderbergh. The small scale two-hander starring Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel about an aging artist and an upstart forger is intentionally intimate, but is it too slight? They discuss.Next, they pick up their cultural magnifying glasses to peep at The Miniature Wife, the new marital comedy series starring Matthew Macfadyen and Elizabeth Banks about a scientist who accidentally aims his shrink ray on his wife. Is this diminutive premise too small for its multiple episode execution? They discuss. Finally, they take up the small but mighty objects apparently floating at the bottom of many an it girl's purse: cigarettes. They respond to a recent piece in the Ankler “Cigarettes Get a Sequel: Hollywood's ‘Cool' Bad Habit Is Back.”In an exclusive bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, the panel gazes at the vast expanse of space and talks about Artemis II's mission to the far side of the moon. EndorsementsDan: The novel Possession by A.S. Byatt.Steve: The essay in New York Review of Books “From the Rooftops of Tehran,” an anonymous first person account of life under fire from American and Israeli bombs.Dana: The radio show Shocking Blue on New York's WFUV from the DJ Delphine Blue— if you miss it on Saturday nights 8pm-11pm when it airs, check out at WFUV's archives to listen to episodes after broadcast.--Email us your thoughts at culturefest@slate.com. Podcast production by Benjamin Frisch. Production assistance by Daniel Hirsch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's show, Dana, Steve, and Dan Kois get into cultural topics of various scales. First, they examine The Christophers, the latest film from Steven Soderbergh. The small scale two-hander starring Ian McKellen and Michaela Coel about an aging artist and an upstart forger is intentionally intimate, but is it too slight? They discuss.Next, they pick up their cultural magnifying glasses to peep at The Miniature Wife, the new marital comedy series starring Matthew Macfadyen and Elizabeth Banks about a scientist who accidentally aims his shrink ray on his wife. Is this diminutive premise too small for its multiple episode execution? They discuss. Finally, they take up the small but mighty objects apparently floating at the bottom of many an it girl's purse: cigarettes. They respond to a recent piece in the Ankler “Cigarettes Get a Sequel: Hollywood's ‘Cool' Bad Habit Is Back.”In an exclusive bonus episode for Slate Plus subscribers, the panel gazes at the vast expanse of space and talks about Artemis II's mission to the far side of the moon. EndorsementsDan: The novel Possession by A.S. Byatt.Steve: The essay in New York Review of Books “From the Rooftops of Tehran,” an anonymous first person account of life under fire from American and Israeli bombs.Dana: The radio show Shocking Blue on New York's WFUV from the DJ Delphine Blue— if you miss it on Saturday nights 8pm-11pm when it airs, check out at WFUV's archives to listen to episodes after broadcast.--Email us your thoughts at culturefest@slate.com. Podcast production by Benjamin Frisch. Production assistance by Daniel Hirsch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Robyn. RAYE. A jazzy left turn from Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea. NPR Music's Stephen Thompson chats with Alisa Ali from WFUV in the Bronx about their favorite albums out Friday, March 27. Plus, a handful of NPR Music writers and critics offer personal picks in our lightning round. The Starting 5(01:42) Robyn, 'Sexistential'(07:15) RAYE, 'This Music May Contain Hope'(14:21) Courtney Barnett, 'Creature of Habit'(20:20) The New Pornographers, 'The Former Site Of'(25:32) Flea, 'Honora'(32:08) The Lightning Round- Connie Converse, 'How Sad, How Lovely' (Reissue)- Snail Mail, 'Ricochet'- The Philharmonik, 'Transcendentalism I' EP- Irreversible Entanglements, 'Future Present Past'- Sluice, 'Companion'- Charlotte Cornfield, 'Hurts Like Hell'Sample the albums via our New Music Friday playlist and see our Long List of notable releases on NPR.org.Credits:Host: Stephen ThompsonGuest: Alisa Ali, WFUVAudio Producer: Noah CaldwellDigital Producer: Dora LeviteEditors: Otis Hart, Elle MannionExecutive Producer: Suraya MohamedSpecial thanks to Bobby Carter, Sheldon Pearce and Ann PowersTo manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy