# White Christmas in NYC?

Light snow graced New York City on Christmas Eve, creating a festive atmosphere for residents and visitors.  **A light snowfall** moved through the city and its surrounding areas, making for a picturesque holiday scene.

[While we don't have embedded media from the original article, imagine here a short video clip or a captivating photo of snowy NYC streets.]

The unexpected snowfall added to the magic of Christmas Eve, delighting many New Yorkers.  News crews from CBS New York captured the celebratory mood.

Some light snow is moving through New York City and the surrounding area, just in time for Christmas Eve. CBS News New York&#039;s Tony Sadiku and Zinnia Maldonado have team coverage.

NYC Christmas Eve: A White Christmas Surprise!

# Can Zohran Mamdani Win NYC's Mayoral Race?

![Zohran Mamdani](https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/03/30/nyregion/30met-mamdani-01-wfpb/00met-mamdani--01-wfpb-articleLarge.jpg?quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale)

Zohran Mamdani, a 33-year-old state assemblyman from Queens, is making waves in the NYC mayoral race.  His campaign, focused on affordability, leverages social media savvy and a relatable persona.  He's known for unconventional campaign stunts like a New Year's Day polar plunge and a Q train burrito-eating incident (followed by a humorous apology). 

## A Progressive Challenger

Mamdani, a democratic socialist, presents a stark contrast to more centrist rivals like former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Eric Adams. While his progressive platform might face challenges with broader voter appeal, he's successfully positioned himself as a fresh alternative for progressive Democrats.

## The Challenge Ahead

His success hinges on mobilizing his largely left-leaning base. While his social media presence has boosted his profile and fundraising, translating online popularity into votes remains a significant hurdle in a crowded field.

## Mamdani's Platform

Mamdani's campaign prioritizes addressing New York City's affordability crisis. His commitment to progressive policies will be a key factor in determining his success in the upcoming election.


The progressive state assemblyman from Queens is building a new coalition of voters for his mayoral campaign, which has focused on the city’s lack of affordability.

Can Zohran Mamdani, the TikTok Socialist, Win NYC Mayoral Race?

# NYC's Empire State Building Goes Dark for Earth Hour

[<img src="https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/03/22/379fc284-4a9f-4486-b8c2-5d3460b86b6f/thumbnail/620x421/8ea5e177ce8850af5acc460a2eb286e2/gettyimages-2108084584.jpg?v=9e5c48f1b04ac2a564e8a4c51250ac89#" alt="he top of the Empire State Building and One Vanderbilt go dark to mark Earth Hour in New York City as they stand behind the Lackawanna clock tower in Hoboken, New Jersey on March 23, 2024, as seen from Jersey City, New Jersey. " height="421" width="620">](https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/03/22/379fc284-4a9f-4486-b8c2-5d3460b86b6f/thumbnail/620x421/8ea5e177ce8850af5acc460a2eb286e2/gettyimages-2108084584.jpg?v=9e5c48f1b04ac2a564e8a4c51250ac89#)

New York City's iconic Empire State Building went dark on March 22, 2025, from 8:30 PM to 9:30 PM.  This wasn't a power outage, but a symbolic gesture in observance of **Earth Hour**.

## What is Earth Hour?

**Earth Hour**, organized by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), is a global movement to raise awareness about environmental issues.  Landmarks around the world participate by switching off their lights for an hour, and individuals are encouraged to take part by performing eco-friendly activities.

The WWF highlights that Earth Hour is about more than just turning off the lights; it's about inspiring a global commitment to environmental sustainability.

Earth Hour, which started in Australia in 2007, now involves over 180 countries and territories and is held annually on the last or second-to-last Saturday of March.

The Empire State Building's participation serves as a powerful visual reminder of the importance of environmental action and global collaboration for a sustainable future.


New York City&#039;s skyline looks a little darker tonight without the Empire State Building&#039;s lights.

NYC's Empire State Building Goes Dark: Why the Lights Are Off?

# NYC Weather Alert: Temperatures Plunge Tonight!

Get ready, New York City!  Temperatures are expected to drop significantly Saturday night. CBS News New York's Craig Allen provides your First Alert Forecast for March 22 at 6 p.m.  Stay tuned for updates and be sure to dress warmly!

<img src="https://assets2.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/r/2025/03/22/77b15830-ae92-4119-9aae-2215f46ed5cf/thumbnail/1280x720/d95d23f3ccdf57347185ba468508f566/470c31f2601a743674f2c6864115c03b.jpg?v=9e5c48f1b04ac2a564e8a4c51250ac89" alt="NYC Weather">

## Related Videos:

Here are some of the latest videos from CBS New York:

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/videoID1" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/videoID2" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>

**(Note:  Replace `videoID1` and `videoID2` with actual video embed codes from the original article.)**

CBS News New York&#039;s Craig Allen has your First Alert Forecast for March 22 at 6 p.m.

NYC Weather Alert: Plunging Temperatures Tonight!

# NYC Courthouse Holding Cell Death: Man Dies Awaiting Arraignment

**Soso Ramishvili**, 32, was found dead in a Brooklyn Criminal Court holding cell just an hour before his scheduled arraignment.  He had been held for three nights.

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/2025-new-york-city-police-100872012.jpg?w=1024" alt="NYPD crime scene unit investigators bring out evidence collected in evidence bags, and personnel from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner bring out the body at the Central Court Building after the death of a prisoner in central booking at 120 Schermerhorn Street in Downtown Brooklyn, New York, United States, on March 21, 2025">

According to police sources, Ramishvili was found slumped over, and despite CPR efforts, was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of death is currently under investigation. 

Ramishvili had been arrested for shoplifting and was also allegedly found with cocaine. His arraignment had been postponed six times.  While in custody, he reportedly required medical attention three times for drug-related issues, including drug withdrawals. 

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/2025-new-york-city-police-100872011.jpg?w=1024" alt="NYPD crime scene unit investigators bring out evidence collected in evidence bags, and personnel from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner bring out the body at the Central Court Building after the death of a prisoner in central booking at 120 Schermerhorn Street in Downtown Brooklyn, New York, United States, on March 21, 2025">

Police sources also cited **staffing shortages** at city courthouses as a potential factor contributing to the delays in Ramishvili's case.  The Legal Aid Society and Brooklyn Defenders are calling for an independent investigation, citing the **unconscionable indifference** shown to Ramishvili's medical needs.  NYC law mandates arraignments within 24 hours of arrest, unless there's a justifiable reason for delay. 

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/2025-new-york-city-police-100871992.jpg?w=1024" alt="NYPD crime scene unit investigators and the medical examiner pulling a body on a gurney after the death of a prisoner in central booking at 120 Schermerhorn Street in Downtown Brooklyn, New York, United States, on March 21, 2025">

<img src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/03/2025-new-york-city-police-100872010.jpg?w=1024" alt="&quot;Central Court Building&quot; sign at 120 Schermerhorn Street in Downtown Brooklyn">

[Read their joint statement](https://108.181.32.73/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LAS_BDS-joinJoint-Statement-from-Legal-Aid-Brooklyn-Defenders-on-Death-in-NYPD-Custody-at-Kings-County-Criminal-Courtt-statement.pdf?__cpo=aHR0cHM6Ly9sZWdhbGFpZG55Yy5vcmc)

Soso Ramishvili, 32, was found dead inside of a holding cell in Brooklyn Criminal Court Friday morning, police said – just an hour before he was supposed to appear in front of a judge. 

NYC Courthouse Holding Cell Death: Man Dies Awaiting Arraignment

# Queensboro Bridge Pedestrian Path: The Big Reveal That Wasn't

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/03/21/multimedia/21met-queensboro-01-vzcl/21met-queensboro-01-vzcl-articleLarge.jpg?quality=75&amp;auto=webp&amp;disable=upscale" alt="An aerial view of the Queensboro Bridge looking toward Manhattan." />

A highly anticipated pedestrian path for the Queensboro Bridge, part of the ambitious "Bridges for the People" initiative, was all set to open.  A ribbon-cutting ceremony was scheduled, a press release prepared, and even local officials were invited to attend.

Then, City Hall unexpectedly pulled the plug.  The project, which aimed to alleviate overcrowding on the bridge’s current, shared pedestrian and cyclist lane, has been stalled, leaving many wondering what went wrong.

The existing lane, a repurposed section of the outer northbound roadway dating back to 1979, is woefully inadequate for the bridge’s daily traffic of 170,000 vehicles, making it a bottleneck for both walkers and cyclists.

The sudden halt raises questions about the project's timeline and the city's commitment to enhancing pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure.

##  The "Bridges for the People" Initiative

This project was initially championed by former Mayor Bill de Blasio as a move away from car-centric urban planning, aiming to create more pedestrian and cyclist-friendly crossings.  While the Brooklyn Bridge has seen improvements, the Queensboro Bridge remains an exception, underscoring a persistent gap in the city's efforts to make its bridges safer and more accessible for everyone.

The reasons behind the sudden cancellation haven't been publicly clarified, leaving both residents and officials eager for answers and updates on this much-needed project. The delays are a disappointment for those who hoped to see this important improvement to the bridge's infrastructure.

A long-awaited pedestrian path appeared to be finished this month. A ribbon-cutting was scheduled. A news release was prepared. Then City Hall hit the brakes.

Queensboro Bridge's New Pedestrian Path: A Sudden Halt!

# NYC's Tap Water at Risk: Salinity Levels Soar, Threatening Future Supply

Decades of road salt use is jeopardizing New York City's water supply.  A recent study reveals that salinity levels in the Croton Water System, which provides 10% of the city's water, have tripled since 1987.  This alarming trend could force the abandonment of the Croton system as early as 2100 if left unaddressed.

## The Salting of NYC's Water

The Croton system, dating back to 1842, comprises 12 reservoirs and three lakes. The study shows chloride concentrations—an indicator of salinization—are on track to exceed state limits by 2108. This poses a significant threat to the quality and availability of New York City's famed tap water, impacting millions of residents.

While the Delaware and Catskill watersheds, supplying 90% of the city's water, are less affected due to lower development, the Croton system's vulnerability highlights the widespread issue of road salt pollution.

## Solutions and Challenges

Several solutions are being explored, including:

* **Reverse osmosis:** This expensive, energy-intensive technology can remove salt from water.
* **Water mixing:** Blending Croton water with less salty water from other sources could help, but wouldn't address the needs of the municipalities that rely on the Croton system.
* **Road salt reduction:** This is considered the most practical solution.  Options include using salt alternatives, employing sensors on snowplows to optimize salt application, and implementing strategies to reduce salt usage during maneuvers.

State Senator Pete Harckham has introduced bills to address the issue, emphasizing the need for collaboration between state agencies and local governments.

## Environmental Concerns and Public Health

High salt levels in drinking water present significant environmental concerns and could pose health risks, particularly for individuals on low-sodium diets.  The situation underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the effects of road salt pollution and safeguard New York City's water supply.

<p>The problem extends beyond NYC.  High salt levels in water are a growing concern in many snowy regions across the US.</p>

Decades of road salt use is taking a toll on New York City’s water reservoirs. City officials say salinity levels tripled in the suburban reservoirs that supply 10% of the city’s water and that those reservoirs would have to be abandoned early next century if trends continue.

NYC's Tap Water at Risk: Salinity Levels Soar, Threatening Future Supply

# NYC Bridges Face Safety Review

Following the collapse of Baltimore's Scott Key Bridge, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is recommending vulnerability assessments for 15 New York and New Jersey bridges.  This isn't to say these bridges are in imminent danger, but rather that their risk of collapse from vessel collisions is unknown. 

<img src="https://media.nbcnewyork.com/2019/09/NYC_aerial-1-1.png?fit=2060%2C847&amp;quality=85&amp;strip=all&amp;w=400&amp;h=44&amp;crop=1" alt="Aerial view of NYC bridges">

The NTSB emphasizes the need for bridge owners to understand and address these risks, particularly after their investigation revealed that Maryland authorities failed to conduct a proper assessment on the Key Bridge before its collapse.  This failure, according to safety officials, is deemed preventable.

## Affected NYC Bridges

Among the NYC bridges requiring assessment are some iconic spans:

* **Brooklyn Bridge**
* **Manhattan Bridge**
* **Williamsburg Bridge**
* Verrazano Narrows Bridge (eastbound and westbound)
* Newburgh-Beacon Bridge (eastbound and westbound)
* Rip Van Winkle Bridge
* Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge
* George Washington Bridge
* Outerbridge Crossing Bridge
* Seaway International Bridge
* Thousand Islands Bridge

Seven of these bridges are classified as "Critical/Essential," with one predating the 20th century.

While the MTA assures that its bridges undergo routine inspections, the NYC Department of Transportation is reviewing the NTSB's request, noting that many of the East River bridges don't accommodate large vessels.

The NTSB's broader recommendation includes 68 bridges nationwide, built before 1991 and frequently used by vessels.

This proactive safety measure aims to prevent future tragedies by understanding and mitigating potential risks.

Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and Williamsburg Bridge are all on the list.

NYC Christmas Eve: A White Christmas Surprise!

Summary:

Light snow fell in New York City on Christmas Eve.

The snowfall created a picturesque winter wonderland atmosphere.

The unexpected snow added to the magic of the Christmas Eve celebration.

White Christmas in NYC?

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Can Zohran Mamdani, the TikTok Socialist, Win NYC Mayoral Race?

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NYC Weather Alert: Plunging Temperatures Tonight!

NYC Courthouse Holding Cell Death: Man Dies Awaiting Arraignment

Queensboro Bridge's New Pedestrian Path: A Sudden Halt!

NYC's Tap Water at Risk: Salinity Levels Soar, Threatening Future Supply

NYC's Iconic Bridges Under Scrutiny: NTSB Demands Vulnerability Assessments

Other Latest News

Can Zohran Mamdani, the TikTok Socialist, Win NYC Mayoral Race?

NYC's Empire State Building Goes Dark: Why the Lights Are Off?

NYC Weather Alert: Plunging Temperatures Tonight!

NYC Courthouse Holding Cell Death: Man Dies Awaiting Arraignment

Queensboro Bridge's New Pedestrian Path: A Sudden Halt!

NYC's Tap Water at Risk: Salinity Levels Soar, Threatening Future Supply

NYC's Iconic Bridges Under Scrutiny: NTSB Demands Vulnerability Assessments