Bloomberg’s soda ban: NYC takes a collective Big Gulp!

New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg has proposed a ban on sugary drinks larger than 16oz as part of his ongoing effort to fight obesity in the Big Apple. Defending his proposal, Bloomberg said that obesity is a nationwide problem and New York was “doing something” about it. The ban, which could go into effect as early as March next year, has received a mixed reaction, sparking criticism from some who have labelled Bloomberg’s move more nanny state politics. The ban would take effect in the city’s restaurants, movie theaters and stadiums, but vending machines, grocery stores and newsstands would not. Diet sodas with fewer than 25 calories per 8 oz, fruit juice, dairy and alcohol…

New York’s crime rate may be on the rise for the first time in decades

New York City used to be a dangerous place, but crime dropped dramatically under Mayor Rudy Giuliani during the 90s and the early 00s. It seems The Big Apple is regressing. There were more than 65 shootings over the Labor Day holiday weekend alone. Mayor Bloomberg has blamed other states’ lax firearms laws for the large number of guns on New York streets. However, crime at large is on the rise in the city, a stark contrast to the rest of the US and other nations. New Yorkers would be safer in Baghdad right now. There were zero US troop deaths during August in Iraq.

Hurricane hype leaves the US East Coast all wet

August is normally dull for news. Thank goodness for Irene! Reporters braved winds to bring you the latest in hurricane hype … leaving viewers all wet. Hurricane Irene also gave politicians a chance to look good for the cameras. Wow! Look at Michael Bloomberg do his mayoral thing! Across the river, Chris Christie looked the man in charge and dare we say presidential? Christie also weighed in with his own evacuation orders. Hurricane hype set off panic buying at area stores, providing a big boost to some businesses. But it hurt New York City’s food and beverage and tourism industries. A mass transit shutdown a full day before the storm left passengers frustrated. Was Bloomberg…

Gays to begin marrying in New York on Sunday

Sunday is the first day gay marriage will be legal in New York State. New York City alone has received close to 2,000 same-sex applications. The city originally planned to fill a limited number of Sunday marriage slots through a lottery, but later announced all entrants would be accommodated. Albany plans to one-up New York City. Ten couples will have the chance to be married as early as midnight Sunday by Mayor Jerry Jennings. However, two upstate women claim they will be the very first to be married under the new law. They plan to “take the plunge” near Niagara Falls the same morning. No matter who weds first, one thing is clear: Everyone is…

Pregnant terrapins cause delays at JFK Airport

About 150 diamondback terrapins arrived at New York’s JFK International Airport two days ago, crossing the tarmac, forcing the parking apron to shut down for 15 minutes leaving planes stuck on the runway.

Alec Baldwin leaving ’30 Rock’ for NYC mayoral bid?

Details are slowly leaking out today about Tracy Morgan’s homophobic rant during a comedy show, but he’s not the only ’30 Rock’ star in the news. Alec Baldwin is considering a run for New York City Mayor in 2013. People think he actually has a descent shot at winning…that is, just as long as he keeps his crazy co-worker away from his campaign. Here’s the lowdown on Mr. Donaghy’s potential bid: Alec Baldwin has revealed he is considering a run for New York City mayor now that Anthony Weiner’s chances have been dashed. Baldwin will be free to run in the 2013 race. He plans to quit 30 Rock next year, leaving the show’s future…