David Stone
Founder & Euro Editor
Navigating Apps with Changes in Memory: Join Our Study
December 2, 2025
Weill Cornell Medicine seeks older adults with mild memory loss for a study on improving navigation apps. Participation is valuable,...
Pesticides in Parks: Minimizing Risks Now to Wildlife and Public Awareness
Pesticides on Roosevelt Island caused the deaths of 7 goslings and 3 baby squirrels, sparking outrage over the lack of eco-friendly pest control and community consultation. Pesticides not only harm wildlife but also pose health risks to humans. Safer alternatives, like Integrated Pest Management and organic landscaping, offer sustainable solutions for healthier public green spaces.
Eco-Friendly Pest Management: The Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Approach
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a proactive and eco-friendly approach to pest control, minimizing chemical pesticide use. It emphasizes prevention, monitoring, non-chemical controls, and targeted interventions. By reducing health risks, being cost-effective, and promoting sustainability, IPM offers a balanced and effective solution. Examples include using beneficial insects in gardens and sealing entry points at home.
RIVAA Gallery Double-Header: Baroque Music & Gen-Z Art
Experience a double-header of artistic bliss at Gallery RIVAA this Saturday! Journey through the musical splendor of the Baroque era with “Echoes of the Sun King” featuring renowned performers. Then, immerse yourself in the visionary world of Gen-Z artists at “The Road Ahead” exhibition. Donations support the arts. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration!
Tentative NYC Budget Deal Restores Library, Museum and Some Parks Cuts
The City Council and mayor reached a $111 billion budget deal, restoring funding to libraries, parks, and cultural institutions. After contentious negotiations, the deal also includes funding for parks maintenance. The restored funds are seen as a success for the council, which had a more positive assessment of the city’s finances than the mayor.
The Acceleration of Cultural Change and the Divided United States
The United States is more divided than ever, driven by rapid cultural change, clashing values, and generational divides. Social media bubbles and partisan news entrench beliefs, eroding shared identity. Seeking common ground, supporting quality journalism, and engaging in respectful dialogue offer hope for healing. Embracing these actions can help mend America’s fractured society.
Rethinking Intelligence: Beyond Centralized Brains
So, what’s the deal with intelligence, really? It turns out that having a centralized brain might not be the only way to be smart. Octopuses, plants, and even bacteria show some pretty clever behaviors without a traditional brain. Maybe we’ve been too focused on brains when it comes to smarts. Time to rethink!
Wendy Hersh: MSTDA Star Award Winner and Roosevelt Island Community Leader
Wendy Hersh, the 2024 MSTDA Star Award Winner, has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the Roosevelt Island community. Despite facing adversity, she tirelessly supported various initiatives, from establishing a food pantry during the pandemic to leading the Roosevelt Island Disabled Association. Her selfless service epitomizes the true spirit of a community “Star”.
Krueger and Seawright Community Board 8 Meeting: Advocating for Roosevelt Island
Senator Liz Krueger and Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright will meet with Roosevelt Islanders on July 1st at 6:30 p.m. to address governance issues. The community seeks direct elections for RIOC board members and a say in the Master Lease extension. Join this important conversation for positive change and democratic representation.
Rosie the Wild Turkey: Alone in the City, Should We Be Worried?
The famous wild turkey, Rosie, roaming alone in an urban area raises concerns. Wild turkeys are social and rely on flocks for safety and mating. While she may have adapted to city life, it’s not ideal. Observing from a distance and reporting sightings to local wildlife agencies is advised. Rosie’s solitary situation isn’t optimal for her well-being.
MTA Board Votes to Confirm Hochul’s Congestion Pricing Pause, Scales Back Future Plans
Major projects to improve transit in New York City are on hold as Governor Hochul halted the Manhattan tolling plan, redirecting funds from expansion and accessibility to essential maintenance. The move sparked outrage and concerns about the impact on future transit plans. The MTA is now facing significant funding challenges and uncertainties.
David Stone
Founder & Euro Editor