Pedal Pushing Forward

A new report claims that thousands more New Yorkers are cycling to work instead of using mass transit. Cyclists account for less than 1% of total NYC commuters now, but that number is expected to grow. In tough financial times, biking helps many make ends meet. Despite the obvious monetary and health benefits, many potential bike riders remain concerned about dangerous vehicle traffic and the shortage of safe bicycle parking places. The city is responding by painting new bike lanes on many thoroughfares. Much more must be done though to encourage home-to-work bike riding.

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NYC Is In The House To Save ‘Hoods

When a New York City house becomes vacant, it deteriorates quickly. It can run down an entire block. Then the neighborhood around that block can decay. Mayor Bloomberg says the city will buy as many as 115 foreclosed homes over the next 18 months using $24 million in federal funds. This money comes from a New Neighborhood Stabilization Program grant. These abandoned homes will be converted into 250-300 housing units for low and middle-income New Yorkers. He hopes this will stabilize at-risk neighborhoods. The people who buy these units will be eligible for affordable mortgages. The main rescue effort will center in central Brooklyn and Jamaica, Queens. Good job, “Mayor Homey!”

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Library DVD Borrowing Is Booking

Historically during tough times, people flock to libraries to read books. Many libraries around New York City have noted the recent increase in visitors. Unknown to many however, most libraries have a huge assortment of DVD titles as well as printed materials. As the economy worsens, savvy New Yorkers are borrowing DVDs from local libraries rather than renting them at Blockbuster-like outlets. It’s convenient, too. DVD selections may be made online and put on hold for pickup. Library DVD rentals are FREE … but watch out for those infamous “late return” fines!

[This is a copyrighted editorial, originally published on http://www.NEWYORKCITYonline.com/NYC-Online/blog.php. We invite you to post your comments! Note: This piece may be duplicated or printed with permission.]