Thursday, November 27, 2025

Weekly News from State Senator Gustavo Rivera!

 

GOVERNMENT HEADER

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Dear Neighbors,


Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours! On this special day, it is my hope that we can reflect on the blessings we have in our lives and as a community despite the many challenges we are facing. In my case, I'm thankful to represent you and I'm committed to continue working to address the issues that matter the most to you and your family. Have a joyful holiday!


Senator Gustavo Rivera

New York State Senate

33rd District

SENATOR RIVERA'S OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED IN CELEBRATION OF THANKSGIVING

SENATOR RIVERA CELEBRATES THANKSGIVING WITH TURKEY DISTRIBUTIONs ACROSS HIS DISTRICT!

As Thanksgiving approaches, Senator Rivera and his team distributed turkeys and produce at different events across his district including at Pelham Parkway Houses, Bean Morris Community Garden, Bronx Community Board 8, and at the Riverdale Neighborhood House. 


With generous donations from local businesses, corporate partners, and community organizations, Senator Rivera and his team worked hard to ensure that many families in Senate District 33 received what they needed to spend a joyful holiday, especially during these challenging times.

This week, Senator Rivera joined Governor Kathy Hochul as she visited The Bronx to make a series of announcements highlighting new affordability measures that will put thousands of dollars back in the pockets of families across New York.


Here are the highlights:


  • Starting in January, 1.6 million families can start claiming New York’s expanded child tax credit for up to $1,000 per child, which will benefit more than 1.6 million families.


  • New York just launched the BABY Benefit initiative, a one-time $1,800 allowance for low-income parents upon the birth of a new baby.

Governor Hochul also announced significant investments into The Bronx's healthcare system to improve maternal care and youth mental health services. The state is allocating $5 million to build a new birthing center, where soon-to-be moms will be able to receive affordable care before, during and after birth, including the opportunity of giving birth in a safe, home-like setting.


In addition, the Governor is partnering with Montefiore Medical Center to open a brand new youth-focused inpatient psychiatric facility in The Bronx. This unit will help countless young Bronxites with complex behavioral health needs by providing them with treatment and other mental health services.


Finally, Senator Rivera joined the Governor, Montefiore Health System, Greater New York Hospital Association, the Afya Foundation, and 1199SEIU to recognize their efforts to send aid to Jamaica following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa.


Read more about these announcements here and here.

Senator Rivera's bill (S.1804-A) to require insurance coverage for certain inhalers (one rescue and one maintenance) at no cost has been signed into law by Governor Kathy Hochul.


The cost of asthma inhalers can be cost prohibitive for many, with the price of each life-saving device being as high as $640 a month. Even with health insurance, individuals are subjected to significant expenses to access this life-saving medication, and without consistent access to inhalers, people with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are more likely to get sick, be hospitalized, and die.


According to the New York State Department of Health, more than 1.4 million adults in New York live with asthma. New York City has one of the country’s highest rates of hospitalizations and deaths due to asthma among children and young adults, and it is especially prevalent in The Bronx. This is due to indoor and outdoor air pollution, tobacco use, and barriers to quality and affordable healthcare coverage.


"With the Governor signing this bill into law, New York is one step closer to eliminating the financial barriers that keep our residents from accessing life-saving asthma medications. I want to thank my partner in the Assembly, Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas, for working closely with me to get this important law on the books, which will improve access to care,” said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. 

This week, Senator Rivera attended the Bronx 48th Precinct Council monthly meeting. During the meeting, Senator Rivera shared updates on his work in the community including his office's most recent immigration related outreach efforts, as well as his walkthroughs of auto shops in Bronx Community Board 6 to directly engage with local auto shop owners to discuss his proposed legislation, S2329/A3629. He also responded to questions from board members, neighbors, and representatives from the precinct council.


Thank you to the Council's President Carmen Rivera, and all other members for their warm welcome!

This week, Senator Rivera joined Bronx groups to urge New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez to extend the environmental review process for the Cross Bronx 5 Bridge Project to 90 days from the current 52 days.


Bronx residents who will be impacted by this $900 million dollar project deserve to spend the holiday season spending time with their families, not reviewing a 6,000 page document.


The Cross Bronx Expressway has caused too much damage in our borough for almost seven decades so it is only fair that we get this project right and ensure future generations in the South Bronx grow up in a safer and healthier environment.


In the meantime, the NYSDOT will hold the following public hearings on the Draft Design Report/Environmental Assessment (DDR/EA):


  • Wednesday, December 3, at Mott V, 1551 East 172nd Street, Bronx, NY 10472, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. with a formal presentation at 6:30 p.m.


  • Saturday, December 6, at P.S. 214, 1970 West Farms Road, Bronx, NY 10460, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. with a formal presentation at 3:30 p.m.


  • Wednesday, December 10, virtually via Zoom, (Zoom ID: 834 3999 6917; Invite Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83439996917). The virtual hearing will consist of formal presentations at 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. followed by public testimony sessions.

 

Written comments on the Draft Design Report/Environmental Assessment can also be submitted via email to Rehab5CBEBridges@dot.ny.gov until January 9, 2026. You can review the DDR/EA here.

📣 Passionate about public service and are you social media savvy? Apply to our Social Media Internship and help our Communications Team shape the message behind the mission!


📅 Deadline: ASAP



📩 Send your resume + cover letter to grivera@nysenate.gov.

THE 2026 NYC PARKS LIFEGUARD RECRUITMENT HAS OFFICIALLY BEGUN!

Lifeguard qualifying tests began October 25, 2025 at Truman High School!


Lifeguard Qualiry Test are taking place between now through later February 2026. All potential lifeguards must first pass this test before beginning training. Please use the following link for Lifeguard Qualiry Testing locations in the Bronx Lifeguard Qualifying Test Registration : NYC Parks

 

Upcoming dates:

  • Monday, 11/24
  • Wednesday, 1/28/26
  • Saturday, 2/7/26

 

These qualifying tests are taking place at Truman High School.

FROM 11/1 TO 2/28/2026: APPLY TO THEDREAM.US SCHOLARSHIPS FOR DREAMERS!

New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce - Wishing Everyone a Happy Thanksgiving

 

State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli's Weekly News - Wishing You a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving

 

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Happy Thanksgiving from Comptroller DiNapoli

a thanksgiving tablescape of candles, flowers, gourds, and leaves

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the people and places that make our lives special, and express thanks for them. With gratitude, Comptroller DiNapoli extends to you the warmest wishes for good health and happy times as you celebrate this holiday season.

NYC's Public Hospitals Need to Do More to Provide Interpretation Services

new audit from Comptroller DiNapoli found that the New York City Health and Hospitals Corporation (H+H) is not fully meeting patients’ right to interpretation services for those in need of language assistance. H+H is the nation’s largest municipal health care system, overseeing 11 acute care hospitals, five post-acute/long-term care centers, and 30 community health centers. New York regulations require hospitals to have language assistance to ensure meaningful access to services.

“The Health and Hospitals Corporation has a tall order given the diversity of languages spoken in New York City, but it needs to do better,” DiNapoli said. “It is critical that those in need of medical care can communicate with health care providers. This audit found a number of shortcomings and offers recommendations that H+H can use to improve critical language services to its patients.”

Read More

Native American Heritage Month Celebration

traditional native american dancers

Comptroller DiNapoli recognized and celebrated Native American Heritage Month with a special event featuring keynote speaker Heather A. La Forme-Maldonado, MPA (Onondaga Nation; Beaver Clan), Director of the Bureau of Native American Services at the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, along with an engaging cultural performance by Chris Thomas and His Smoke Dancers.

New York is home to nine State recognized Nations: Cayuga, Oneida, Onondaga, Saint Regis Mohawk, Seneca, Shinnecock, Tonawanda Seneca, Tuscarora, and Unkechaug.

Former Durhamville Fire Department Treasurer Sentenced to Prison for Theft of Over $92K

Comptroller DiNapoli, Oneida County District Attorney Todd Carville, and New York State Police Superintendent Steven James announced that the former treasurer of the Durhamville Fire Department was sentenced to serve 1-3 years in state prison and pay $92,000 in restitution after pleading guilty to stealing from the fire department.

Read More

South Carolina Woman Arrested for Stealing $147,455 in Pension Payments

A South Carolina woman was arrested for allegedly stealing $147,455 in pension payments meant for her deceased mother, Comptroller DiNapoli, South Carolina Seventh Circuit Solicitor Barry Barnette and Spartanburg County, South Carolina Sheriff Bill Rhyne announced.

Read More

Future Forward Internship Academy Applications Open

state comptroller dinapoli having a conversation with a future forward internship academy student

Applications for Comptroller DiNapoli's Summer 2026 Future Forward Internship Academy are now open!

This 12-week paid summer program is designed to immerse students in the challenges and rewards of public service, offering a unique blend of academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in one of five career tracks:

  • Auditing
  • Governmental Accounting & Management
  • Human Resources & Administration
  • Project Management
  • Business Analysis

Students from all majors are considered and must be completing their sophomore, junior, or senior year of college at the time of application to be eligible.

Learn More & Apply

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Comptroller Lander Recommends Pension Boards Drop BlackRock, Fidelity, and PanAgora Due to Inadequate Decarbonization Plans


BlackRock’s new policy that ceases proactive engagement on proxy voting issues with U.S. companies where it owns 5% or more renders it unable to meet the pension systems’ expectations

46 of 49 public markets managers submitted decarbonization plans that align with NYC’s Net Zero Implementation Plan 

New York City Comptroller Brad Lander released a Net Zero Implementation Plan update to trustees of the New York City Employees’ Retirement System (NYCERS), Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS), and Board of Education Retirement System (BERS). The update recommends that the three Systems rebid BlackRock’s U.S. public equities index mandates and terminate those of active managers Fidelity and PanAgora. The recommendation follows a robust evaluation of the pension systems’ 49 public market managers. While 46 of the systems’ public markets managers submitted decarbonization plans that align with New York City’s Net Zero Implementation Plans, three asset managers failed to meet the Systems’ climate expectations. 

In 2023, the trustees of NYCERS, TRS, and BERS adopted Net Zero Implementation Plans (NYCERS PlanTRS PlanBERS Plan), committing their funds to achieve net zero emissions by 2040. The plans committed the funds to (1) set interim targets and disclose emissions; (2) engage asset managers and portfolio companies to be net-zero aligned; (3) invest in climate change solutions; and (4) divest to reduce risk. As announced earlier this year, the Systems have collectively achieved a 37% reduction in financed greenhouse gas emissions since the baseline of 2019, divested fossil fuel reserve owners, and scaled up climate solutions investments to $11.9 billion—while achieving strong returns (10.5% for FY25, exceeding the actuarial target of 7%).   

The Net Zero Implementation Plans adopted in 2023 required public equity and corporate bonds managers to submit decarbonization strategies by June 30, 2025, outlining how they are aligned with the Systems’ expectations, including how they actively engage with portfolio companies to mitigate climate risk. All 49 of the Systems’ public markets managers submitted plans. Today’s recommendations are based on a thorough analysis of those submissions. 

“The systemic risk of the climate crisis threatens the long-term value of New York City’s pension funds,” said New York City Comptroller Brad Lander. “Our Net Zero plan is a core part of our fiduciary duty to protect these assets. I am pleased to report that 46 of our 49 public markets managers are aligned with our expectations for decarbonization; unfortunately, three are not. Today, I am calling on my fellow trustees to move our money away from the three asset managers – BlackRock, Fidelity, and PanAgora – who fail to address climate risk with the seriousness we expect.”  

Key Manager Recommendations: 

  • BlackRock: Following Trump Administration changes in reporting requirements to the SEC, BlackRock recently announced it has ceased proactive engagement on proxy voting issues with U.S. companies where it owns 5% or more. As a result, its engagement does not sufficiently encourage portfolio companies to take concrete decarbonization actions, such as setting net-zero goals, adopting science-based targets, or aligning lobbying and capital expenditures with climate goals. While BlackRock claims this was necessary to comply with the new requirements, other large asset managers (e.g., State Street) maintain a much more robust approach to climate engagement. The review also identified other shortcomings with BlackRock’s climate stewardship. While BlackRock did expand access to its Climate and Decarbonization Stewardship policy as part of its response, the submission still does not meet the Systems’ expectations. As a result, Comptroller Lander is calling on NYCERS, TRS, and BERS trustees to approve a search to rebid BlackRock’s $42.3 billion in U.S. public equity index mandates. 
  • Fidelity: Fidelity also adopted an overly restrictive interpretation of SEC guidance, applying it to both U.S. and non-U.S. companies to prevent influencing them on decarbonization, even when such action is financially material (BlackRock’s rollback only covers U.S. companies). Given this refusal to engage with portfolio companies on a critical systemic risk, Comptroller Lander recommends that TRS terminate Fidelity’s World ex-US small-cap mandate and develop a reallocation strategy for its $384 million in assets. 
  • PanAgora: As the systems’ only quantitative manager to adopt such a restrictive approach, PanAgora’s engagement on climate is limited to disclosing emissions. It fails to encourage companies to take decarbonization actions—like setting emissions targets or adopting transition plans—even when such actions could be beneficial to the company. Comptroller Lander recommends NYCERS and TRS terminate PanAgora’s U.S. small-cap equity mandate. 

Direct Engagement 

Direct engagement with the Systems’ highest-emitting portfolio companies, independently from our asset managers, is a cornerstone of the work of TRS, NYCERS, and BERS on Net Zero. All of the Systems’ Net Zero corporate engagement work is predicated upon the understanding that as long-term investors and fiduciaries, the Systems must be a strategic partner for its portfolio companies throughout the Net Zero transition.  

Our engagement strategy focuses on setting science-based targets as a first step toward the creation of a clear roadmap to achieve Net Zero by 2040. To date, Comptroller Lander and the Bureau of Asset Management have engaged with over 100 public companies on this topic. 

Among the highest emitting sectors, the Office has spent substantial time focusing on utilities, which collectively represent about 20-30% of the Systems’ financed emissions. The Office served as a stakeholder on an advisory group convened by the Electric Power Research Institute that is aimed at creating a target-setting protocol for utilities called “SMARTargets.” Unfortunately, despite ongoing efforts, SMARTargets is not yet an acceptable methodology for target setting and presents a significant greenwashing risk. 

The Office is committed to working with the industry to reach a mutually agreeable outcome on this issue, but cannot accept a methodology that would enable “greenwashing.” To that end, Comptroller Lander recently convened over 60 individuals representing asset owners, managers, utility companies, and service providers to address this issue and identify a path forward that provides investors with the tools and information they need to engage with their portfolio companies on decarbonization and other efforts to mitigate climate-related risk. 

Midstream and Downstream Proposal 

In June 2025, Comptroller Lander proposed to the Systems’ Boards that they cease future investments in midstream and downstream fossil fuel infrastructure. This policy would add a provision to the existing prohibition on upstream fossil fuel investments in private markets that the Systems adopted in 2023. In the memo issued today, Comptroller Lander reiterated this proposal and urged the trustees to adopt it.  

Excluding investments in pipelines and LNG terminals will help mitigate the systemic risks climate change poses to the global economy and the Systems. Taking this step ensures the Systems’ private markets investments are not financing fossil fuel infrastructure that undermines the Paris Agreement’s climate goals, protecting both the planet and the long-term investment returns needed to fund NYC employees’ pension benefits. 

New York’s Responsible Play Partnership Reminds New Yorkers: Lottery Tickets Are Not Child’s Play

 

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The New York State Gaming Commission, the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS), and the New York Council on Problem Gambling remind New Yorkers that lottery tickets make great gifts for everyone on their gift lists – except for those under 18 years of age.

Collectively known as New York’s Responsible Play Partnership (RPP), the Gaming Commission, OASAS and New York Council on Problem Gambling support the national “Gift Responsibly” campaign organized by the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) and supported by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL).

Research supports that early exposure to or participation in gambling during childhood is highly correlated with the development of a gambling problem later in life. Gambling exposure during childhood is often through a lottery product, such as lottery tickets or scratch offs. Often these items are given to a child by an adult who is unaware of the associated risks.

This holiday season, the Gaming Commission’s Division of the Lottery is continuing its award-winning "Small Risk/Big Gamble" public service announcement campaign across the state and reminding its retailers about the issue: Always check the government-issued photo ID of any customer purchasing a Lottery ticket. If the customer is underage or does not show a valid form of ID, do not make the sale.

OASAS oversees providers across the state that offer problem gambling services, and regularly works with its provider network to improve services. Prevention providers focused on gambling provide community-based education programs to adults regarding the harms associated with underage gambling and how to seek support through the NYS OASAS HOPEline if needed.

Throughout the year, the New York Council on Problem Gambling works to address youth risk through training professionals, community-based organizations, and youth influencers. The Council’s efforts also focus on supporting New York State colleges and universities as they begin to assess and understand this public health issue and how to address it on campus.  Keeping young people safe from gambling starts with awareness and education. Through our You Decide NY hub youth, parents and communities can access clear, supportive resources to understand risks and make healthy choices around gambling.

Gaming Commission Chairman Brian O’Dwyer said, “Lottery tickets are fun, exciting gifts for adults, but they are clearly not for children. We encourage all New Yorkers to responsibly enjoy the holiday season – including keeping potential gambling harms away from our youth.”

OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said, “Gifting lottery tickets or scratch offs to young people may seem harmless, but it can be a risk factor for them developing a gambling addiction later in life. It is important that adults are aware of these risks and recognize these are not appropriate gifts for those under 18. Working closely with our partners in the Responsible Play Partnership, we continue to expand and enhance our continuum of gambling services throughout New York, as well as educate the public about the importance of responsible gambling.”

New York Council on Problem Gambling Executive Director Michelle Hadden said, "Gambling on scratch off tickets is often seen as harmless fun for kids, but research shows youth are far more vulnerable to the harms of gambling. We hope this holiday season gift giving brings joy to young people and not lottery play. We are proud to partner with OASAS and the Gaming Commission again this holiday season to spread this message to all our parents and grandparents in NY. Let's keep our young people safe from gambling harms."

Derek Longmeier, President of NCPG’s Board of Directors, said, “Youth gambling is a growing risk that too often goes overlooked. The Gift Responsibly Campaign plays a vital role in helping families and communities understand the importance of keeping lottery products out of kids’ hands. We’re grateful to New York State for joining this effort and working to expand education and awareness to protect young people from gambling-related harm.”

Visit the NCPG for more information about the Gift Responsibly campaign.

The New York Lottery is committed to providing players with a range of fun, entertaining games in a socially responsible manner. Those seeking help can visit NYProblemGamblingHelp.org or call New York State’s confidential HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369). Standard text rates may apply.

2025 VAN NEST NEIGHBORHOOD ALLIANCE (VNNA) CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING–12/14/2024

 

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2023
4:30PM
COCO, COOKIES & CAROLING!
JOIN US FOR OUR 12TH ANNUAL
CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
MEET SANTA!! GET A TOY!!

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Van Nest Neighborhood Alliance

Senator Julia Salazar - Town Hall & Free Tenant Support

 



Just a reminder that next week I'll be hosting a community town hall, and my office will have free tenant support services available as well. More information below!


Wednesday, November 26, 2025

Governor Hochul Reminds New Yorkers to Travel Safely Ahead of Thanksgiving Lake Effect Snow

A sign warns travelers of snowy roads

Governor Hochul Deploys Additional Resources in Anticipation of First Significant Lake Effect Event of the Season Set to Impact Parts of Western New York, Central New York and the North Country Today Through Saturday

Thanksgiving Holiday is Busiest Travel Time of the Year; Leave Extra Time for Travel and Avoid Travel During Periods of Intense Snow

New Yorkers Can Sign Up for Weather and Emergency Alerts by Texting 333111

Governor Kathy Hochul today reminded New Yorkers to travel safely ahead of a lake effect snow system set to impact areas across the state during the Thanksgiving holiday. Areas across Western New York south of Buffalo could see between 12 and 18 inches of total snow, while Syracuse has the potential for eight to 12 inches and parts of Central New York north of Syracuse could see between one and two feet. A wind advisory also is in effect for portions of Western New York, Central New York, the Finger Lakes and the North Country. Travel around the Thanksgiving holiday is the busiest of the year, and snow paired with high winds increases the risk of blowing and drifting snow. Those traveling for the holiday should leave themselves extra time to reach their destinations and avoid traveling during intense periods of snow. Snowfall is expected to begin tonight and hit peak rates Thursday into Friday.

“Thanksgiving is the busiest travel time of the year, and as we manage a lake effect snow system moving into our state, we’re taking proactive measures to keep roads clear and New Yorkers safe,” Governor Hochul said. “I’ve directed state agencies to do whatever they can to ensure families can travel safely during the coming days, and I encourage New Yorkers to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families.”

In addition to preparing for snow, New Yorkers should also prepare to protect against the dangers that can result from colder weather. Under state regulation, a Code Blue is automatically in effect whenever the temperature and wind chill equal less than 32 degrees. Local social services districts are required to take necessary steps to ensure those experiencing homelessness have access to shelter and that shelter hours are extended. New Yorkers are encouraged to review these cold weather tips from the state Department of Health; additional tips for preventing frostbite and hypothermia information about carbon monoxide poisoning and ways to prevent it; details on the proper use of generators; and safe winter driving tips.

The state Department of Labor advises workers and employers to engage in extreme cold weather best practices such as:

  • Limit outdoor work, provide frequent breaks in warm areas and schedule outdoor work during the warmest times of the day.
  • Ensure access to clean drinking water.
  • Stay hydrated with warm beverages and avoid caffeine.
  • Wear proper personal protective equipment, including at least three layers of clothing, gloves or mittens, thick socks, insulated footwear and a hat, hood or hard hat liner.

The National Weather Service has issued lake effect snow warnings, winter storm watches, winter weather advisories and wind advisories, and New Yorkers should closely monitor their local forecasts and look for updates. For a complete listing of weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service website at alerts.weather.gov.

New Yorkers also should enable emergency alerts on their mobile phones, and text their county or borough name to 333111 so they can receive text messages about real-time weather and emergency alerts.

Winter Driving Safety Tips

  • Monitor the forecast for your local area and to where you are traveling.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel.
  • If you must travel, make sure your car is stocked with survival gear: blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
  • If you have a cellphone or other communications device such as a two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
  • The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is vehicle crashes. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.
  • It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit.
  • Snowplows often operate side by side on interstate highways to safely clear several lanes at one time.
  • Motorists and pedestrians also should remember that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions.

Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted. Never attempt to pass a snowplow while it is operating.