A powerful, slow-moving nor’easter tore through Brooklyn and the greater New York City area this past weekend, flooding streets, downing trees, and leaving thousands without power as the storm parked itself over the region for the better part of three days.
Flooding along a Brooklyn street during the weekend nor’easter. Photo: The New York Times
Governor Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency for New York City on Friday, just hours before the storm rolled in with wind gusts topping 55 miles per hour. By Saturday, high tides had already pushed water into low-lying neighborhoods across the borough, with flooding reported from Coney Island to Red Hook and Greenpoint. In Coney Island, the MTA installed storm doors at subway entrances along Mermaid and Neptune Avenues to try to keep floodwater out of the system.
High tides pushed water into low-lying neighborhoods from Coney Island to Red Hook. Photo: The Gazette
The flooding continued into Sunday as a second round of high tides swept through the region. Streets across Brooklyn turned to rivers, and fallen trees littered blocks throughout the borough, snapping power lines and leaving residents in the dark.
The storm’s impact was felt hardest in East Flatbush, where a brick parapet wall collapsed at a three-story building on Church Avenue, just off Nostrand Avenue. The collapse forced dozens of residents from their homes as emergency crews worked to secure the building and assess the damage.
Emergency crews assess a Church Avenue building in East Flatbush after a parapet wall collapse. Photo: ABC Channel 7
Citywide, the nor’easter proved deadly. A New York City Housing Authority worker was killed after being struck by a falling tree, and four other people were hospitalized with injuries after also being struck by falling trees during the height of the storm. Across the Northeast, more than 130,000 customers lost power at the storm’s peak, with Long Island and other parts of New York state among the hardest hit.
Fallen trees littered blocks across the borough, snapping power lines. Photo: SuaraGarut.id
By Monday, the storm finally began to loosen its grip on the region, with forecasters calling for conditions to ease through the start of the week, though lingering rain and wind were still expected across parts of New England.
For Brooklyn residents cleaning up in the storm’s aftermath, the message from city officials was clear: stay clear of downed power lines and damaged structures, and report any storm damage to 311.
A guide to one of New York’s most vibrant, diverse, and underrated neighborhoods — right in the heart of Brooklyn.
If you’ve never spent a real afternoon in Flatbush, you’re missing one of Brooklyn’s best-kept secrets — except it’s not really a secret anymore. In 2024, Time Out named Flatbush the coolest neighborhood in all of New York City and the 17th coolest in the world. And honestly? That is so on point.
Flatbush sits at the literal heart of Brooklyn, bordered by the beloved Prospect Park to the north and Brooklyn College to the south. It’s a neighborhood that has always known who it is — layered, lively, and deeply human. Whether you’re a longtime New Yorker or just discovering the outer boroughs, Flatbush deserves a full day of your time.
“It’s the kind of neighborhood you only find in Brooklyn.”
A Little History
Flatbush has roots that go all the way back to 1651, when Dutch settlers founded it as Vlachte Bos — meaning “flat woodland.” For centuries it was farmland and quiet village life. Then came the railroads, the Brooklyn Bridge, Prospect Park, and waves of immigrants from Italy, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and beyond. Each community left its mark, and that layering is exactly what makes Flatbush feel so alive today.
The neighborhood is also home to Erasmus Hall, the oldest high school building in New York City, and the magnificent Reformed Dutch Church built in the 1790s. History isn’t just on display here — it’s woven into daily life.
The Vibe
Walk down Flatbush Avenue on any given afternoon and you’ll hear music drifting from open storefronts, smell jerk chicken from a sidewalk grill, and pass a fruit stand selling fresh coconuts next to a Victorian brownstone. The neighborhood hums with what can only be described as authentic Brooklyn energy — unpretentious, warm, and electric.
Flatbush is home to the largest and most diverse Caribbean-American and Latinx community outside of the West Indies. The area along Nostrand, Church, and Utica Avenues — known as Little Caribbean — is the heart of that culture, and it’s a destination in itself. We at The NA Times hail from Nostrand Avenue and can testify to just how cultural the neighborhood really is.
Where to Eat and Drink
The food scene here is a full world tour. Caribbean spots dominate in the best way, but you’ll also find Thai, Mexican, French, Japanese, and Italian restaurants sharing the same blocks.
MangoSeed Restaurant: Jerk chicken & waffles, bottomless mimosas, and homemade lemonade. A Flatbush staple.
Aunts et Uncles: Beloved vegan Caribbean spot with a cozy community feel.
Hibiscus Brew: Stop here for a cold sorrel drink — refreshing and totally authentic.
Sycamore Bar & Flowershop: Craft cocktails, an outdoor patio, and fresh flowers for sale. Yes, really.
Mr. P’s Homemade Ice Cream: Local favorite for creative, handcrafted scoops. Get a cone and walk.
Miss Barbs: A great wine spot with solid community energy and rotating events.
Things to Do
Beyond eating (though honestly, that alone could fill a day), Flatbush offers a lot. Prospect Park is right on the neighborhood’s doorstep — summer concerts at the Bandshell, fishing in the lake, ice skating in winter. It’s one of the best urban parks in the country and Flatbush residents treat it like their backyard.
For culture, the Kings Theatre on Flatbush Avenue is a must. Originally built as a movie palace in 1929, it was restored and reopened in 2015 as one of the most stunning performance venues in all of New York. Even if you don’t catch a show, walk by and take in the architecture.
The Flatbush Caton Market on Flatbush Avenue has been a neighborhood institution since 2000 — an open-air market with local vendors, food stalls, and community goods. And Lips Cafe hosts regular community events from Canvas & Cabernet nights to First Fridays networking — a great way to meet locals.
Architecture Worth Stopping For
One of Flatbush’s hidden pleasures is its architecture. The southern section of the neighborhood — often called Victorian Flatbush or Ditmas Park — is filled with grand, free-standing Victorian homes from the late 19th century. Tree-shaded front lawns, lush foliage, and grassy medians called the Flatbush Malls give the area a quiet, almost suburban feel that surprises most visitors.
Take a self-guided walk along Albemarle Terrace, Albemarle Road, and Rugby and Buckingham Roads. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported somewhere else entirely — while still being firmly in the center of Brooklyn.
QUICK TIPS FOR YOUR VISIT
Take the Q, 2, or 5 train — Flatbush has excellent subway access from Manhattan
Visit on a weekend for the most street life and open markets
Do a food crawl along Nostrand Ave through Little Caribbean
Check the Kings Theatre calendar before you go — shows sell out
Bring cash for the Flatbush Caton Market vendors
Walk Albemarle Road for the Victorian architecture — it’s stunning
The Bottom Line
Flatbush is one of those neighborhoods that rewards curiosity. It doesn’t try to be anything other than itself — and that’s exactly what makes it so compelling. The food is real, the community is tight-knit, the history runs deep, and the energy is unlike anywhere else in the city. If you haven’t been, go. If you have, you already know.
Have a favorite Flatbush spot we didn’t mention? Drop it in the comments — we’d love to hear about it.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem attends a meeting in the Oval Office on Nov. 17, 2025. Win McNamee/Getty Images
March 5, 2026
In a major shake-up inside the federal government, Kristi Noem was removed today from her role as Secretary of the United States Department of Homeland Security. The decision was announced by Donald Trump, marking one of the most significant cabinet changes during his current administration.
Noem, who previously served as governor of South Dakota, had been leading the Department of Homeland Security since 2025. Her tenure focused heavily on immigration enforcement, border security, and internal agency reforms.
During her time in office, she became a central figure in the administration’s immigration strategy, frequently appearing in press briefings and policy announcements related to border enforcement and national security initiatives.
However, her leadership also sparked controversy and intense political debate in Washington, D.C., with critics questioning several policy decisions and operational strategies carried out by the department.
Growing Political Pressure
In recent weeks, Noem faced increasing scrutiny from lawmakers during congressional hearings. Members of Congress pressed her on issues ranging from border enforcement policies to internal management of Homeland Security operations.
The hearings, which drew national attention, amplified criticism from political opponents and added pressure on the administration to address concerns surrounding the department’s leadership.
Who Will Replace Her?
Following the announcement, President Donald Trump said that Markwayne Mullin is expected to step in as the next Secretary of Homeland Security.
Mullin, currently a senator representing Oklahoma, is known as a close ally of the president and has been vocal on issues related to border security and federal enforcement policies.
The transition is expected to take place later this month as the administration moves forward with leadership changes within the department.
What Happens Next?
The leadership shift could signal a new phase in how the administration approaches immigration enforcement and national security strategy. With the Department of Homeland Security playing a central role in border policy, disaster response, and federal security coordination, the new leadership will likely shape the direction of these efforts in the coming months.
Political analysts say the move reflects broader adjustments within the administration as it continues to refine its policy priorities in Washington.
We are all in disbelief it is SPRING! It is being reported that this weekend we will experience winter like temperatures and flooding from the heavy rains.Heavy rain is expected to arrive overnight on Friday.
You can expect heavy rain to arrive overnight on Friday. Stay warm and dry everyone.
Whitaker and Nash first met on the set of the 1994 film Blown Away after she was cast to play Whitaker’s character’s girlfriend, per CBS News. Whitaker proposed the following year and the couple married in 1996 in Montego Bay, Jamaica. In addition to True, the pair also share daughter Sonnet Noel, 27.
Keisha Nash Whitaker and Forest Whitaker on Aug. 12, 2013. CHARLEY GALLAY/GETTY
Select subway stations around New York City will be testing a new type of turnstile for enter into the subway system. The constant upgrade of the subway system is a welcomed by all of the subway riders.
The MTA is looking for a design that is more user-friendly and accessible to all. This wider turnstile will help with wheelchairs, passengers with strollers and those traveling with luggage. This is not the final design, so we will be see other designs being tested around the city. This one was a pleasant surprise at Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, near the Barclay center.
Breadfruit vodka is an exotic and relatively obscure spirit that has, over the years, developed an ever-growing fanbase of fans and connoisseurs. The unique flavor and aroma of breadfruit vodka have made it a sought-after spirit in many parts of the world. But what is the history behind this spirit? Where did it come from and how has it evolved over time? In this article, we will take a look at the history of breadfruit vodka, exploring the origins of this unique spirit.
Breadfruit vodka was first developed in the Caribbean in the 19th century. At the time, the Caribbean was home to a wide variety of indigenous fruits and plants, many of which were used to make traditional alcoholic beverages. Breadfruit was one of these native fruits and, due to its abundance, it was used as an ingredient in a variety of recipes. One of these recipes was for a type of vodka made from breadfruit.
This breadfruit vodka was made by mashing the fruit into a pulp and then fermenting it. The resulting mixture was then distilled to create a clear, strong spirit with a unique flavor. This breadfruit vodka became popular among the locals and eventually spread to other parts of the Caribbean and beyond.
Over the years, breadfruit vodka has evolved into a variety of different styles and flavors. While some producers still make the traditional version, others have experimented with different ingredients and production methods. For example, some producers have added other fruits and spices to the mash or used different types of yeast to produce unique flavors and aromas.
Today, breadfruit vodka can be found in many bars and liquor stores around the world. It is especially popular in the Caribbean, where it is consumed as a traditional drink. Its unique flavor and aroma make it a favorite among connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
The history of breadfruit vodka is a fascinating one. From its humble beginnings in the Caribbean to its widespread popularity today, this unique spirit has come a long way. As more and more people discover the unique flavor and aroma of breadfruit vodka, it is sure to continue to grow in popularity.
Lunar New Year of the Rabbit is a celebration that marks the beginning of the Chinese Lunar Year. It is celebrated on the first day of the first lunar month of the Chinese calendar, which is the second new moon after the winter solstice. This year, Lunar New Year of the Rabbit will be celebrated from February 3rd to February 17th, 1. This festive holiday is celebrated throughout the world and marks the start of a new year, bringing with it a new beginning, new hopes, and new resolutions. It is a time for family reunions and for honoring ancestors, as well as a time for festivities and fun. During this time, people give each other red envelopes filled with money, exchange gifts, and enjoy traditional foods such as dumplings. People also enjoy festive activities such as lion dances and fireworks. So if you’re looking for a festive celebration to kick off the new year, Lunar New Year of the Rabbit is the perfect way to do it!
The Lunar New Year is celebrated in many different countries around the world. It is a time of joy and celebration, with people coming together to commemorate the upcoming year. While the festivities may vary from region to region, there are several traditions that are shared around the world.
In China, the Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year. Families will often gather to have a big feast, exchange red envelopes of money, and hang decorations. It is also customary for people to wear new clothes and visit relatives and friends who may live far away. Firecrackers are also set off to ward off any bad luck for the new year.
In Vietnam, the Lunar New Year is known as Tet. During this time, families will clean their homes to prepare for the upcoming year and make offerings of food to their ancestors. People will also exchange gifts and visit each other’s homes. Additionally, dragon and lion dances are performed in the streets to bring good luck.
In South Korea, the Lunar New Year is known as Seollal. Much like in Vietnam, people will clean their homes and make offerings to their ancestors. They will also wear traditional Korean clothing and exchange gifts. One of the most popular activities is a game called yutnori, which is a board game played with sticks.
The Lunar New Year is celebrated by many cultures around the world in different ways. Regardless of where it is being celebrated, the Lunar New Year is a time of joy and celebration. People come together to celebrate the start of the new year and wish each other luck in the coming months.
The Lunar New Year of the Rabbit is a time for joy, reflection, and celebration. It is a time to be thankful for all that the previous year has brought and to look forward to all the possibilities that the coming year will bring. Celebrating the Lunar New Year of the Rabbit is a wonderful way to honor the traditions of the past, and to keep alive the Chinese culture and its rich traditions.
The NA Times wants to wish all who celebrate Thanksgiving a very Happy Thanksgiving! This is a great time to reflect on all the things that make you Happy! Big shout out to FAMILY! That is what keeps me whole!
This is a very terrible story. It has been reported that Shanquella Robinson was at a villa in Mexico for a friend’s birthday. 24 hours later, she wound up dead.
Her friends claimed it was due to alcohol poisoning but authorities said she had a broken neck & spinal injuries. Now, her family is seeking answers.
Video’s have emerged of Shaquella being attacked in the villa and now the FBI are involved. Shanquella Robinson was only 25 years old and from North Carolina. Prayers go out to her family!
