LPC to Review Restoration Proposal For Macomb’s Dam Bridge

 

The New York City Department of Transportation has submitted a proposal to the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) for a new protective coating for the historic Macomb’s Dam Bridge, which spans the Harlem River between Manhattan and The Bronx. The project team seeks to address paint deterioration and rust on the 1895 swing bridge, a designated New York City landmark, through a full repainting in a historically accurate color. 

The bridge’s current pale yellow-white coating, approved by the Public Design Commission (PDC) in 1995, has significantly deteriorated over time due to UV exposure and general wear. A PDC paint analysis found evidence of more than twenty prior color schemes throughout the bridge’s history, including shades of yellowish-brown, reddish-brown, and blue. The analysis and historic references, including Edward Hopper’s 1935 depiction of the bridge, suggest that a neutral grey was historically consistent with the bridge’s earlier appearance.

The Department of Transportation now proposes repainting the bridge in Munsell Gray (N 4.5), a tone previously used on other major crossings such as the George Washington Bridge. This color was selected for its historical compatibility and durability, aligning with DOT’s ongoing commitment to preserving the bridge’s structural and architectural integrity while simplifying long-term maintenance.

The Macomb’s Dam Bridge connects The Bronx and Manhattan near Yankee Stadium. The nearest subway access points include the 161st Street–Yankee Stadium station, served by the B, D, and 4 trains.

Criminal Illegal Alien and Suspected Tren de Aragua gang Member Who Was Living with a New Mexico Judge Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Firearms and Destroying Evidence

 

Judge, who provided safe haven to suspected Tren de Aragua gang member released into the country by the Biden Administration, faces criminal charges

Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a criminal illegal alien and suspected Tren de Aragua gang member, was living in New Mexico with Magistrate Judge Jose “Joel” Cano pled guilty to illegally possessing firearms and conspiracy to destroy evidence. He was arrested at the judge's house on February 28, 2025.  

Ortega-Lopez posted numerous photos and videos of himself on social media accounts with weapons including an AR-15 style rifle, a semi-automatic handgun, and ammunition.    

Christhian Ortega-Lopez 

Federal authorities allege Judge Cano and his wife hired Ortega-Lopez for home repairs and later allowed him to reside in their guesthouse.  

A Christmas photo from 2024 of Cristhian Ortega-Lopez in the Cano family home  

Following Ortega-Lopez’s arrest, authorities allege that Judge Cano destroyed a cellphone belonging to Ortega-Lopez by smashing it with a hammer and discarding the remains, believing it contained incriminating photos and videos. Nancy Cano, the judge's wife, is accused of conspiring to delete Ortega-Lopez’s Facebook account to eliminate evidence. 

“Cristhian Ortega-Lopez, a suspected Tren de Aragua gang member who pled guilty to illegally possessing firearms and conspiracy to destroy evidence, should never have been released into the country by the Biden Administration,” said Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. “Judge Cano, a magistrate judge, takes activist judges to a whole new level—having this criminal illegal alien live in his home with him. Time and time again, we see sanctuary politicians and activist judges, like Jose Cano, shield criminal illegal aliens – in this case, a suspected GANG MEMBER, from arrest and removal from the country. This disgusting behavior is wildly unacceptable and is no longer tolerated under the Trump Administration. We are putting the safety of the American people first.”  

Ortega-Lopez illegally entered the United States in 2023 during the Biden Administration and was RELEASED into the country. In January 2025, ICE received an anonymous tip Ortega-Lopez was living in New Mexico and was in possession of firearms. 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security will not let the Democrats’ government shutdown prevent our law enforcement officers from executing the critical mission of securing our nation from the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens. 

Governor Hochul Announces Designations to the Third Department, Appellate Division

Governor Kathy Hochul announced two designations to the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court, Third Department. The justices selected today will bring impressive legal credentials, excellent judicial temperament and an ironclad commitment to justice to the appellate court.

“New York’s judiciary stands as a pillar of fairness and integrity, and these designees reflect our continued commitment to those values,” Governor Hochul said. “Their deep legal expertise, sound judgment, and unwavering dedication to fairness will strengthen the Appellate Division and ensure that justice is served for all New Yorkers.”

The Governor designated Justice Molly Reynolds Fitzgerald, currently on the court, to a five-year term as Associate Justice, and newly designated Justice Justin Corcoran, a Justice of the Supreme Court in Albany, to serve on the Appellate Division. The Third Department covers 28 counties in Upstate New York, ranging from the mid-Hudson Valley to the Canadian Border and as far as west as Schuyler and Chemung counties in the Southern Tier.

Honorable Molly Reynolds Fitzgerald

Justice Reynolds Fitzgerald was born and raised in Binghamton, New York, where she graduated from Seton Catholic Central School. She received her undergraduate degree at Trinity College, Washington, DC in 1982, and her law degree from The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC in 1986. She spent her third year of law school at the University of Georgia, and began practice in Athens, Georgia.

Justice Reynolds Fitzgerald returned to upstate New York in 1990. She engaged in private practice, concentrating in civil litigation, until her election as Supreme Court Justice in 2007. Justice Reynolds Fitzgerald began her term as a Supreme Court Justice in the 10 counties of the 6th Judicial District in 2008. In 2016, she was named Administrative Judge for the 6th Judicial District and continued in that position until her appointment to the Appellate Division, Third Department, in 2019. Justice Reynolds Fitzgerald was elected for a second term as a Justice of the Supreme Court in November 2021, and Governor Hochul redesignated her as a Justice on the Appellate Division effective January 1, 2022.

Presiding Justice of the Appellate Division Elizabeth Garry said, “I know that I can speak for the entire court and staff at the Third Department expressing joy that the strong work and collegiality that Justice Reynolds Fitzgerald consistently demonstrates is being recognized by this appointment. She is a remarkable jurist, who brings a practical approach and careful review to each case. She shines a bright light, and I am happy to applaud her.“

Honorable Justin Corcoran

Justice Justin Corcoran was elected Supreme Court Justice in the Third Judicial District in 2019. Justice Corcoran has served as the coordinating judge for asbestos litigation and Child Victims Act cases in the Third Judicial District.

Justice Corcoran is a graduate of Binghamton University and Albany Law School. In 1995, he began his career in private practice at O’Connor, O’Connor, Bresee & First, P.C. where he litigated civil cases in the areas of medical malpractice, municipal liability, civil rights, and products liability for 22 years. Before his election to the bench, he served as confidential law clerk to Supreme Court Justice L. Michael Mackey. Judge Corcoran also devoted his time to public service as an Albany County Legislator and Chairman of the Albany County Ethics Commission.

Presiding Justice of the Appellate Division Elizabeth Garry said, “I am very grateful that our Governor acted so promptly to appoint Justice Corcoran from the field of qualified candidates, to fill the vacancy arising from the departure of Justice John C. Egan. These two each earned strong support over the course of years of service in the community and on the bench in our region, and are both highly regarded by their peers, making this a highly suitable appointment. We look forward to working with Justice Corcoran as he steps into this new role.“

 

John Zaccaro - Our Annual Fall Festival is BACK!

 

Friends,

Please join me and Team JZ for our Second Annual Fall Festival at Allerton Playground on Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Last year, our community came out in full force to enjoy a beautiful afternoon with friends and family as we took in the crisp autumn air and changing leaves. This year, we hope you’ll join us once again for another wonderful day together.

This event is completely FREE for our community!

• WHEN: Saturday, October 25, 2025
• WHERE: Allerton Playground
• TIME: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

We can’t wait to celebrate what’s sure to be an afternoon to remember.

With gratitude,

John Zaccaro, Jr.

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli's Weekly News NY Schools Need More Local Food, Less Red Tape

More Local Food, Less Red Tape: Audit Calls for Improved Administration of School Lunch Program

New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets’ initiative to reimburse school districts at a higher rate if at least 30% of the costs for lunch is spent on eligible New York produced and processed food is growing, but it could better meet its objectives if some administrative burdens were addressed, according to an audit released by Comptroller DiNapoli.

“The 30% New York school lunch program has an excellent goal, to provide healthy, locally produced food to New York school children while supporting our local farms and agricultural economy,” said DiNapoli. “But there’s room to do better to expand on the good work of the Department of Agriculture and Markets by reducing the red tape that discourages school districts from participating in this important initiative.”

Read More

MTA Fiscal Outlook Improves, But Federal Actions Cloud Future

The stability of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA) finances is increasingly reliant on its ability to find significant savings, grow ridership, and efficiently execute capital improvements, according to Comptroller DiNapoli’s annual review of the Authority’s fiscal outlook. These efforts have taken on heightened importance as federal threats over capital funding cloud future investments, which could force the Authority to make difficult choices between balancing debt levels with maintaining the system in a state of good repair.

“The MTA’s budget is currently balanced, but outyear gaps persist as the Authority faces substantial fiscal uncertainties, led by funding threats from the federal government,” DiNapoli said. “It’s imperative that the MTA stay focused on improving the system and bringing riders back, which is one of the surest ways it can help stabilize its fiscal outlook at the farebox, and by following through on its savings initiatives.”

Read More

State Tax Receipts Remain Above Budget Division Projections Through Mid-Year

State tax receipts totaled $59.9 billion through September, the middle of State Fiscal Year 2025-26, $702.2 million higher than financial plan estimates from the Division of Budget, according to the monthly State Cash Report released by Comptroller DiNapoli. State tax collections through September were $5.2 billion higher than those through the same period last year. 

“Higher state tax collections largely stem from robust personal income tax collections, fueled by continued income growth in 2025,” DiNapoli said. “But the federal government shutdown and other policy shifts in Washington could weigh heavily on New York’s economy and revenues over the remainder of the state’s fiscal year.”

Read More

A L S O   I N   T H E   N E W S

• Audit: State missing the mark on using local food in school lunches
• Looming Trump funding cuts could force MTA to ‘make difficult choices,’ new comptroller’s report says
• NY tax revenue tops forecast by $700 million for April-September
• Trafficking in the Tri-State: Rooms without rescue
• Taxing Long Island: State comptroller's office to help Long Islanders obtain unclaimed funds

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P O S T   O F   T H E   W E E K

 

Affordable Housing Lottery Launches for 16 Wade Square in Belmont, The Bronx

 

The affordable housing lottery has launched for 16 Wade Square, an eight-story residential building in Belmont, The Bronx. Designed by A/R Environetics Architects and developed by Spaxel, the structure yields 74 residences. Available on NYC Housing Connect are 23 units for residents at 130 percent of the area median income (AMI), ranging in eligible income from $87,052 to $294,840. 

Amenities include a garage with assigned parking spaces, bike storage lockers, a shared laundry room, elevator, recycling center, a community center, party room, recreation room, storage, gated access, and an on-site resident manager. Residences are equipped with hardwood floors, intercoms, and name-brand kitchen appliances, countertops, and finishes. Tenants are responsible for electricity and and electric stove.

At 130 percent of the AMI, there are five studios with a monthly rent of $2,539 for incomes ranging from $87,052 to $168,480; six one-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $2,599 for incomes ranging from $89,109 to $189,540; five two-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $2,899 for incomes ranging from $99,395 to $227,500; six three-bedrooms with a monthly rent of $3,618 for incomes ranging from $124,046 to $261,170; and one four-bedroom with a monthly rent of $3,879 for incomes ranging from $132,995 to $294,840.

Prospective renters must meet income and household size requirements to apply for these apartments. Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than December 15, 2025.

Governor Hochul Announces Statewide Partners for First Round of Charm Mural Initiative

Led by the New York State Council on the Arts, Program Will Support the Creation of 56 Murals Statewide

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the selection of 11 community partners across the state to create 56 new murals through the Cultivating Havens for the Arts through Regional Murals (CHARM) program. A new initiative of Governor Hochul, this inaugural phase of CHARM will support the creation of art across 21 counties, tapping into New York's unmatched artistic community to enhance existing community spaces, celebrate local culture, drive visitation and promote civic engagement. This public art program is administered by the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA).

“Public art inspires and educates – it strengthens our civic pride and brings us together,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “By supporting our innovative creative sector to work with communities all across the state, CHARM will reimagine everyday public spaces as vibrant destinations for visitors and residents alike.”

The first round of CHARM is supported by $1 million in state funding secured in Governor Hochul's FY25 Enacted Budget and will include murals from individual artists, community-based design and collaborative projects. Sites are outdoors, publicly accessible and include spaces such as library entrances, theatres and recreation centers. Program partners were chosen for their deep-rooted knowledge of their regions, experience managing mural projects, connections to regional artists and ability to listen to both creators and community needs. Mural designs range from scenic depictions, to portraits of notable residents, to dazzling abstract patterns, to expressions of community pride. All murals will be completed by November 2025.

Public art is a powerful vehicle for artistic expression and placemaking – and often the first interaction a person may have with the arts. Public art projects can transform communities into cultural centers, foster greater community pride, and bridge gaps between local communities, businesses, and government.

The community partners are:

• Albany Center Gallery (Capital Region)
  • 2 murals in the city of Albany
• Arts Center Lake Placid (North Country Region)
  • 3 murals in Lake Placid and Ausable Forks
• The ARTS Council of the Southern Finger Lakes (Southern Tier Region)
  • 10 murals in Elmira, Odessa, Owego, Canisteo, and Salamanca
• Arts Mid-Hudson (Mid-Hudson Region)
  • 3 murals in Monroe, Millbrook, and Pine Hill
• Community Arts Partnership of Tompkins County and Ithaca Murals (Southern Tier Region)
  • 14 murals in Ithaca and across the Village of Brooktondale in the Town of Caroline, and the Town of Ithaca
• Huntington Arts Council (Long Island Region)
  • 4 murals in Southold, Bay Shore, and Huntington
• Roc Paint Division and WALL\THERAPY (Finger Lakes Region)
  • 3 murals in Rochester
• Patchogue Arts Council (Long Island Region)
  • 3 murals in Patchogue
• Saratoga Arts Council (Mohawk Valley Region)
  • 6 murals in Old Forge, Middleburgh, Gloversville, Oneonta, Canajoharie, Utica
• Southern Tier West Regional Planning and Development Board (Western NY Region)
  • 7 murals in Faulkner Village, Dunkirk City, Town of Sherman, Salamanca, Gowanda Village, and Alfred
• Artist Chris Murray and the Syracuse Public Art Commission (Central NY Region)
  • 1 mural in Syracuse

Justice Department Statements Regarding Indictment of Former National Security Advisor John Bolton

 

A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging former National Security Advisor John Bolton, 76, of Bethesda, Maryland, with serious crimes related to the mishandling of classified information. The indictment charges Bolton with eight counts of transmission of national defense information (NDI) and 10 counts of unlawful retention of NDI. 

“There is one tier of justice for all Americans,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Anyone who abuses a position of power and jeopardizes our national security will be held accountable. No one is above the law.” 

“The FBI’s investigation revealed that John Bolton allegedly transmitted top secret information using personal online accounts and retained said documents in his house in direct violation of federal law,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The case was based on meticulous work from dedicated career professionals at the FBI who followed the facts without fear or favor. Weaponization of justice will not be tolerated, and this FBI will stop at nothing to bring to justice anyone who threatens our national security.”

“Keeping Americans safe always has been, and always will be, the top priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland,” said U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes for the District of Maryland. “If anyone endangers our national security, we’re committed to holding them accountable.”

“The FBI is committed to protecting classified information to keep Americans safe. Anyone entrusted with this knowledge takes an oath and has a duty to safeguard it. The charges alleged in this indictment demonstrate there will be consequences for those who violate this responsibility,” said Special Agent in Charge William J. DelBagno of the FBI Baltimore Field Office.

The indictment alleges that Bolton illegally transmitted NDI by using personal email and messaging application accounts to send sensitive documents classified as high as Top Secret. These documents revealed intelligence about future attacks, foreign adversaries, and foreign-policy relations.

The indictment also alleges that Bolton illegally retained NDI documents within his home. These documents included intelligence on an adversary’s leaders as well as information revealing sources and collections used to obtain statements on a foreign adversary.

If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of unlawful retention of NDI and a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each count of transmission of NDI. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The FBI Baltimore Field Office is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Sullivan and Robert Goldaris for the District of Maryland, Trial Attorneys Adam P. Barry and S. Derek Shugert of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section, and Trial Attorney Tanner Kroeger of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.