New York City recently transformed into a surreal wildlife sanctuary as **40 life-size buffalo puppets** marched through the concrete canyons of **Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn**. This mesmerizing display was not a glitch in the urban matrix, but rather a striking public arts project orchestrated by **St. Ann's Warehouse**, a renowned theater company based in Brooklyn.

The installation turned heads as these massive, intricate figures navigated the bustling streets, offering a unique blend of performance art and civic engagement. The event highlighted the intersection of traditional puppetry with modern urban landscapes, creating a memorable experience for residents and visitors alike who witnessed the herd roaming the city.

This past week, a herd of 40 buffalo roamed the concrete canyons of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn – life-size puppets that are part of a public arts project by St. Ann's Warehouse, a Brooklyn theater company. Correspondent Anthony Mason reports.

40 Giant Buffalo Puppets Roam NYC Streets in Stunning Public Art Spectacle

In a move that has sparked significant interest ahead of the **United Nations General Assembly**, New York City Mayor **Zohran Mamdani** has confirmed he will meet with President **Donald Trump** this Monday. The high-stakes encounter is set to take place at **Gracie Mansion**, the iconic mayoral residence in Manhattan, marking a pivotal moment in local-national relations.

### A History of Dialogue

This upcoming summit represents the **third in-person meeting** between the two political figures. Their first encounter occurred in the **Oval Office** in November 2025, shortly after Mamdani’s historic mayoral election victory. During that initial meeting, the two discussed critical policies including **affordability**, **public safety**, and **immigration enforcement**. A second meeting took place earlier this year in February.

Despite their differing political backgrounds, Mamdani’s office emphasizes that the dialogue remains constructive. A spokesperson stated the agenda will "focus on issues affecting New York City and New Yorkers." When asked recently about his intentions to meet with the President, Mamdani told reporters:

> “When it comes to the president, we continue to have a conversation about how best to deliver for this city... That is a conversation that has been done in person, it’s been done over the phone, and it will continue so long as either of us have the ability to deliver for the city.”

![GettyImages-2247836301.jpg](https://local12.com/resources/media2/16x9/7516/1174/0x324/80/5bd21316-0237-42cf-a4b5-99ca2383f5d1-GettyImages2247836301.jpg)

*President Donald Trump meets with NYC Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani in the Oval Office in November 2025.*

### Shadow of the UN Agenda

The timing of this meeting is particularly notable given the broader geopolitical landscape. The summit occurs just days before **Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu** is scheduled to address the United Nations on Thursday. 

While Mamdani has been an **outspoken critic** of the Israeli government, he has clarified that he does not plan to participate in any planned demonstrations against Netanyahu during the assembly. This meeting with Trump underscores the complex web of diplomatic and domestic pressures facing New York City’s leadership as global leaders descend upon the city.

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's office announced on Sunday that he will meet with President Donald Trump on Monday ahead of the UN General Assembly.

Mamdani & Trump: The Secret Meeting at Gracie Mansion Before the UN Summit

New York City is accelerating its transition to **green transportation** with a major expansion of its electric school bus fleet. Following a successful pilot project, the city has discovered that a simplified charging infrastructure can reduce construction costs by **20%**, offering a scalable model for dense urban environments nationwide.

### A Smarter Way to Charge

The initiative adds **40 new electric school buses** to NYC Public Schools in **Brooklyn and Queens**. The key innovation lies in the charging setup: instead of digging up paved bus yards to bury electrical lines, First Student utilized an above-ground system called **First Charge**. By running electrical lines overhead, the project significantly reduced disruption, sped up installation, and lowered upfront infrastructure expenses.

> "Eliminating the need to bury the service line to these chargers lowers the upfront costs for First Student and is a strategy that other fleet owners can replicate to save money and complete projects more quickly," said **Vicki Kuo**, Senior Vice President of Customer Energy Solutions at Con Edison.

### Supporting the Transition

This pilot was supported by **Con Edison** and the **New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)**. Through NYSERDA's New York School Bus Incentive Program, the project secured six electric school bus vouchers and assistance in converting four diesel buses to electric power.

This move aligns with strict state mandates:
*   All newly purchased school buses must be **zero-emission by 2027**.
*   The entire fleet must meet this standard by **2035**.

For students and communities, this shift promises **quieter streets**, **cleaner air**, and reduced exposure to harmful diesel pollution near schools.

### Managing Energy and Future Tech

To optimize efficiency, First Student employs **load-management software** that schedules charging during off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower. This helps control energy costs and prevents strain on the local grid. Looking ahead, the company is exploring additional clean energy features for its Brooklyn facilities, including **solar power** and a **smart energy hub**.

Kevin Matthews, Head of Electrification at First Student, emphasized the importance of collaboration: "Deploying electric school buses at scale requires more than vehicles; it requires the right infrastructure, technology, and utility partnership." He noted that this efficient approach helps overcome traditional cost and construction barriers in dense cities.

### National Context

This local success reflects a broader national trend. Orders for electric school buses have risen **tenfold** since early last year across the U.S. Districts can see lifetime savings of up to **$173,000 per bus**, while many EV owners cite cheap charging and lower maintenance as key drivers for switching. As policies like Los Angeles' extra $4,000 incentive for low-income residents show, the push toward zero-emission transport is gaining momentum globally.

New York City is expanding its electric school bus fleet after a pilot project found that a simpler charging setup could cut infrastructure costs by 20%

NYC Cuts Electric School Bus Costs by 20% With Revolutionary Overhead Charging

**GREENBURGH, N.Y.** — When **Pavel Dorofeyev** joined the **New York Rangers**, the initial fantasy of living in Manhattan and buying real estate with his $77 million contract quickly faded. Instead, the 25-year-old forward returned to what he knows best: **Connecticut**.

For four consecutive summers, Dorofeyev has rented an apartment in the state to train at **Prentiss Hockey** in Stamford. This offseason, that routine became more than just training; it served as a crucial bridge to acclimate to his new team. By staying in the area, he avoided arriving as a stranger to the Rangers' facility, instead integrating seamlessly with teammates like **J.T. Miller**, **Matt Rempe**, **Gabe Perreault**, and defenseman **Adam Fox**.

### Building Chemistry Before Camp

The shortened training camp made pre-existing familiarity vital. "Obviously, with a shortened training camp you only have so many times on the ice with someone... getting to know him a little bit being around the area has been good," said **Adam Fox**. The arrangement also allowed Dorofeyev to bond with goalie **Igor Shesterkin** and his family, who also maintain a home in Connecticut after spending the summer in Moscow.

"It felt more like home and I could get used to it," Dorofeyev noted regarding the shift from his previous years where he would leave early for Las Vegas.

### A Lethal Shooting Threat

Dorofeyev is expected to slot into the top line alongside **Miller** and newcomer **Oliver Bjorkstrand**. The hope is that Miller’s elite playmaking—ranking among the NHL's best centers since 2021-22—will unlock Dorofeyev’s scoring potential. Last season, Dorofeyev scored **37 goals** for the Vegas Golden Knights, including **20 power-play goals**, helping them reach the Stanley Cup Final.

Rangers coach **Mike Sullivan** praised Miller’s undervalued vision and physicality, noting that Dorofeyev’s ability to score will complement that style perfectly. Center **Mika Zibanejad** echoed this sentiment, calling Dorofeyev a "lethal shooter" who is strong on the puck and puts himself in shooting positions.

### Power Play Revolution?

One of the biggest upgrades for New York is the **power play**. After finishing fifth in the league last season, the addition of Dorofeyev adds a dynamic left-handed one-timer threat from the right flank. 

"If it is him (Dorofeyev) and Mika on those flanks, obviously that's two shooting threats, kind of pick your poison there," Fox explained. With players like **Artemi Panarin**, **Vincent Trocheck**, and Fox already providing firepower, Dorofeyev brings a fresh dimension that defenses haven't seen from the Rangers before.

As practices begin ahead of the season opener against the **Boston Bruins** on Sept. 29, the consensus is clear: Dorofeyev isn't just a new face; he’s already part of the family. "He's very familiar. Doesn't feel like a stranger at all," Miller said.

Forward regularly had summer workouts in state prior to trade from Golden Knights

Why Pavel Dorofeyev Chose Connecticut Over NYC for His Rangers Debut

**WILLIAMSBURG, Brooklyn** -- A beloved local institution was reduced to ashes this weekend as a **massive fire** tore through the historic **Juliette** restaurant during the busy Saturday night dinner rush.

The incident began just before **5:30 p.m.** on N. 5th Street between Bedford Ave and Berry Street. What started as a localized blaze quickly escalated, prompting over **100 firefighters** to swarm the block in response to the intensity of the flames.

### A Dangerous Night for First Responders

The situation turned perilous when FDNY Deputy Chief Michele Fitzsimmons reported a **localized roof collapse**, forcing crews to withdraw temporarily before re-entering the structure. The danger intensified roughly half an hour later with a terrifying **'smoke explosion.'**

> "I saw a big cloud of fire basically burst out of Juliette... and glass shattered," witness Justin Varga described to reporters.

Despite the chaos and structural instability, **no patrons or staff inside the restaurant were injured**. However, the bravery of the first responders came at a cost; **six firefighters suffered minor injuries**, with four transported to the hospital while one declined medical attention.

### End of an Era

For two decades, **Juliette** has been a staple of the Williamsburg community. The loss has left residents devastated.

> "It's really sad... I think a lot of people in this neighborhood love Juliette's," said local resident Nashemia B.

Flames were finally brought under control just before **8:30 p.m.** Authorities have not yet released information regarding the cause of the fire or the full extent of the damage to the iconic venue.

Flames broke out at 'Juliette' on N. 5th Street between Bedford Ave and Berry Street in Williamsburg just before 5:30 p.m. Saturday.

Heartbreak in Williamsburg: Iconic 'Juliette' Restaurant Destroyed by Massive Blaze

New York State is grappling with a significant spike in **cyclosporiasis** cases, with the New York State Department of Health reporting **22 new confirmed infections** between September 8 and September 14. This latest update brings the total number of cases reported since May 1 to **1,064**, while the year-to-date count stands at **1,098**.

### A Sharp Increase in Infections
Health officials note that this surge is substantial. Typically, New York reports between **500 and 700 cyclosporiasis cases annually**. However, the current 2026 totals have already surpassed **1,000 cases**, effectively doubling the numbers seen in both 2024 and 2025. The increase of 231 cases since early August highlights an ongoing public health concern as the season winds down.

### National Context
The trend mirrors a broader national issue. As of September 15, the **Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)** recorded **19,883 laboratory-confirmed cases** across the United States for the 2026 season (May 1 – Aug 31). The CDC has indicated that recent infection rates have "significantly declined," marking their final weekly tracking update for the season, though periodic surveillance will continue.

### How to Protect Yourself
To reduce your risk of contracting cyclosporiasis, a parasitic illness often linked to contaminated fresh produce, health officials recommend strict hygiene practices:

*   **Wash Hands:** Always wash hands before and after handling fruits and vegetables.
*   **Sanitize Surfaces:** Clean and sanitize cutting boards, knives, and preparation areas thoroughly.
*   **Scrub Firm Produce:** Use a clean produce brush on firm items like melons and cucumbers.
*   **Inspect Produce:** Remove any bruised or damaged areas from fruits and vegetables.
*   **Rinse Thoroughly:** Rinse all fresh produce under running water before consumption.
*   **Refrigerate Promptly:** Store cut, peeled, or cooked produce in the refrigerator immediately.
*   **Cook When Possible:** Heat can kill the parasite, so cooking food is an effective preventive measure.

### When to Seek Medical Care
While cyclosporiasis is rarely life-threatening, it can cause severe diarrhea leading to dehydration, particularly in **older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems**. If you experience persistent diarrhea, signs of dehydration, severe abdominal pain, or symptoms lasting more than a few days, contact a healthcare provider immediately.

New York continues to report new cases of cyclosporiasis as health officials track the illness across the state.

NY Cyclosporiasis Cases Surge Past 1,000: What You Need to Know Now

The New York Knicks are poised to defend their first NBA championship since 1973 in the **2026-27 season**, a historic milestone achieved after a dominant run that included sweeping Cleveland in the Eastern Conference Finals. The title defense begins on **Opening Night, October 20**, against the Philadelphia 76ers at Madison Square Garden.

### Roster Continuity and Critical Losses
The core of the championship team remains intact. All five starters are under contract, and nine of the top ten players from the playoff rotation return. Key role players like **Jordan Clarkson**, **Jose Alvarado**, and **Landry Shamet** re-signed on below-market deals. However, the most significant change is the departure of rim protector **Mitchell Robinson**. Due to the league's strict **second apron** payroll restrictions, Robinson signed with Boston for over $15 million per season. He will be replaced by **Andre Drummond**, who offers elite rebounding but lacks Robinson's mobility, potentially impacting late-game defensive rotations.

### Championship Odds: A Market Skepticism
Despite the roster continuity, oddsmakers remain cautious about a repeat. No team has successfully defended its title in eight seasons. Consequently, the Knicks are priced as co-favorites in the East but clear longshots for the overall title:

*   **NBA Champion:** **+1000** (FanDuel) / **+900** (BetRivers)
*   **Eastern Conference Winner:** **+360** (FanDuel) / **+350** (BetRivers)
*   **Regular Season Wins (50+):** **-170**

Oklahoma City and San Antonio are favored to win the league, while the Sixers, bolstered by **Jaylen Brown**, are seen as the primary threat in the East. For bettors, **FanDuel** currently offers slightly better value on both team futures compared to BetRivers.

### Strategic Shifts: Offense and Defense
Head Coach **Mike Brown**’s offensive system is expected to evolve, utilizing **Karl-Anthony Towns** more as a playmaker. This shift could lead to career-best assist numbers for Towns, making his odds to make an **All-NBA Team (+105)** look attractive. Defensively, the Knicks may face regression; they held opponents to a league-low 31% from three-point range in the playoffs, a statistic likely unsustainable given the quality of shots allowed.

### Awards Watch
*   **Jalen Brunson (MVP):** Priced at **+4000**. A realistic path requires the Knicks to secure the #1 seed with Brunson averaging ~29 points and 7 assists. His odds to make the **All-NBA First Team (+200)** are considered strong value.
*   **OG Anunoby (Defensive Player of the Year):** A long shot at **+8000**, facing stiff competition from Victor Wembanyama. An **All-NBA Third Team** selection is a more probable breakout scenario.
*   **Mike Brown (Coach of the Year):** At **+3000**, this award hinges on the team exceeding high expectations, likely requiring 60+ wins.

### Key Dates to Watch
*   **Oct. 20 vs. Philadelphia 76ers:** Opening Night/Ring Night.
*   **Dec. 25 vs. San Antonio Spurs:** Christmas Day showdown featuring Victor Wembanyama.
*   **Jan. 18 vs. Minnesota Timberwolves:** MLK Jr. Day matinee.

### Best Bets & Predictions
*   **Best Bet:** **Knicks to Win Eastern Conference (+360)**. Removing the Western Conference favorites from the equation makes this a solid value play.
*   **Line Shopping:** Take the **Title at +1000** on FanDuel rather than +900 elsewhere for an extra 10% profit.
*   **Value Play:** **Karl-Anthony Towns Any All-NBA Team (+105)**.
*   **Long Shot:** **Jalen Brunson MVP (+4000)** for small-stakes excitement.
*   **Pass:** Avoid betting **50+ Wins (-170)** due to potential championship hangover risks.

New York Knicks 2026-27 season preview: repeat title odds at FanDuel and BetRivers, the Mitchell Robinson exit, Brunson MVP price and best bets.

40 Giant Buffalo Puppets Roam NYC Streets in Stunning Public Art Spectacle

Summary:

40 life-size buffalo puppets paraded through Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn

Project created by St. Ann's Warehouse, a prominent Brooklyn theater company

Event served as a major public arts initiative transforming city streets

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