In God We Trust

all others pay cash, some Inner Circle photos, and news recap #119

I spent last Sunday physically and emotionally recovering from another successful and funny Inner Circle show (although Cindy Adams hated it) and decided to cook instead of sending this out. I apologize.

It was a bad week to miss considering all the news that happened the week before — dropped charges and Mayor Adams dropping his Democratic primary run to go independent in November.

As penance, please enjoy this gallery from my disposable cameras, which I hope capture the fun and chaotic behind-the-scenes of a group of journalists — not singers or actors — putting on a two-act musical with changes made right up until the last day.

Last week was decidedly not as fun as the one leading up to the show. I am reminded of it this morning as I go through the top stories on THE CITY (and other outlets.)

A federal immigration judge ruled Mahmoud Khalil can be deported. Another Columbia student, Yunseo Chung, asked a federal judge if her name is redacted in a memo from Sec. of State Marco Rubio targeting two activists for removal. NYU and Fordham student visas were yanked. President Trump’s tariff back and forth could pummel the city’s economy — even though Mayor Adams wouldn’t criticize them, and instead said essentially maybe the change is good. Sluggish court proceedings keep Rikers Island full. The city’s youth lockups are failing vulnerable kids, an audit found.

The City Council is gearing up for a sanctuary city fight. Speaking of the council, we spoke to Speaker Adrienne Adams on FAQ about her mayoral run, where I got to ask her how she feels about Andrew Cuomo saying he’s from Hollis when he’s really from Holliswood (this is very niche Queens.)

Later in the week, she reportedly punished two council members for endorsing Cuomo, which First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro said was misusing her position. The City Hall beefing is increasing amidst budget negotiations. I really liked this tweet:

One funny upside of the week: Mayor Adams picked his independent ballot line name, although it’s too long and will have to be shortened. And he wore a patriotic t-shirt to the briefing last week. I have a feeling the stunts will only increase as the year continues.

🎧 LISTEN 🎧

We sat down with both Speaker Adams and Comptroller Brad Lander this week.

Music from live shows I saw this week:
Ghost Rodeo’s new EP, Up Above the City [BANDCAMP]
Mary J. Blige’s show at UBS Arena [YOUTUBE]
Mabe Fratti mix [YOUTUBE]
Explosions in the Sky’s full NPR show [YOUTUBE]

Thanks for reading!