Long Island's farms prepare for summer festivals, with the 70-year-old Mattituck Strawberry Festival and activities like watermelon feasts and lavender events drawing local participation.

New York City beaches open for Memorial Day weekend with enhanced safety measures, including increased lifeguard hiring and the potential use of drones for rescue operations.

Governor Hochul announces over $10 million in funding to enhance New York's animal shelters, benefiting 30 organizations through the state's Companion Animal Capital Fund.

The NYBG exhibit "Van Gogh's Flowers" combines Vincent van Gogh's artwork with live flora, offering interactive, multi-sensory experiences and events like Starry Nights.

New York Governor Hochul announces a $10.4 million grant to improve animal shelters, indicating strong state support for animal welfare and shelter facility enhancements.

Castle Hill in the Bronx opened its first dog park, offering a space for dogs and fostering community among residents. The event included a barbecue and activities.

Bryant Park's free movie series returns this summer, starting June 9th with "Pretty in Pink." Films will be shown every Monday night through August 11th.

Jacob Riis Park in Queens faces continued beach closure due to erosion and hazardous conditions, with no immediate plans for sand replenishment, despite past incidents and local infrastructure concerns.

Zygi Wilf's Garden Homes faces local opposition in New Jersey for a proposed 496-unit development on the Watchung Mountains, with concerns over potential increased flooding and environmental impact.

The New York Restoration Project is distributing 1,000 blight-resistant hybrid chestnut trees to NYC residents to revive the nearly extinct American chestnut species.

Prospect Park's century-old elms battle Dutch elm disease, with three lost despite efforts by the Prospect Park Alliance to inoculate and preserve them. The Alliance also combats Beech Leaf Disease and adapts to environmental challenges.

The new Davis Center opens at Harlem Meer in Central Park, replacing the old Lasker Rink with a year-round pool and ice rink, serving as a community hub.

Central Park unveils the new Davis Center at Harlem Meer, replacing Lasker Rink and Pool, offering diverse outdoor activities, a swimming pool, and an ice-skating rink to New Yorkers.