Annika Pergament
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NYC news anchor of The Rush Hour, weekdays 4-7 PM @ny1
annika.pergament@spectrum.com
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Articles by Annika Pergament
Administration for Children and Families leader looks to eliminate 'Orphan Tax'
The federal Administration for Children and Families is looking to end the so-called "orphan tax" in every state, including New York. The practice allows state child welfare agencies to intercept a foster child's deceased caregiver's federal and Social Security benefits to reimburse themselves for the costs of foster care. That's care the state is legally required to provide for every foster child. New York is one of the remaining 13 states to uphold the practice.
Doctor shares tips for Breast Cancer Awareness Month
About one in eight women develop breast cancer, but the mortality rate has dropped in recent years. Dr. Elizabeth Comen, oncologist at NYU Langone Health, joined NY1 anchor Annika Pergament to share strategies for predicting and detecting breast cancer. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
New performing arts center opens with bilingual one-man show on gun violence
The People's Theatre's new Centro Cultural Inmigrante opened its doors this week in Manhattan. The People's Theatre has been around for almost 20 years, but this is the first time the theater has had a permanent home. The first show being presented at the new center is called "Guac." The bilingual one-man show is written and performed by Manuel Oliver, the father of Joaquin Oliver, one of the 17 people shot and killed at Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida in 2018.
Farm Sanctuary celebrates 40th anniversary with new book
An upstate haven for New Yorkers is celebrating a major milestone. Farm Sanctuary in Watkins Glen is marking its 40th anniversary this year with the release of a new book. Gene Baur, its president and co‑founder, joined NY1 anchor Annika Pergament to discuss the farm’s history and future. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Tech:NYC CEO talks rising AI woes and worries
OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, revealed this week six reports of what it called "unexpected or concerning" behavior regarding its AI models. After a group of AI CEOs warned the technology may be developing too quickly, Mayor Zohran Mamdani repeatedly called for greater federal oversight of the technology. That sentiment has been echoed by Gov. Kathy Hochul, who has vowed to take action on the state level if the Trump administration does not regulate the technology.
Former police commissioner reflects on the 25th anniversary of Sept. 11
Former Police Commissioner Ray Kelly began his second stint as head of the NYPD just months after the Sept. 11 attacks. Following the attacks, he overhauled the department into a tech-forward force on the watch to prevent another incident. Kelly joined “The Rush Hour” on Friday to reflect on the anniversary. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Former NYPD inspector talks new Sept. 11 art exhibition
A new art exhibition is set to mark 25 years since the Sept. 11 attacks. On Thursday, Ground Zero 360 at the New York City Fire Museum will unveil a collection of contemporary art and historical artifacts from artists around the world. The exhibition aims to honor the victims, survivors and first responders of the attacks.
The Atlantic CEO talks Atlantic Festival in NYC
The Atlantic magazine is set to kick off its Atlantic Festival in New York City for the second year in a row next week. The three-day festival will host more than 40 events on various topics, from conversations on the economy and AI to first-looks at new films.
Sept. 11 survivor reflects on recorvery from extensive burns, maintaining resilience
For Lauren Manning, the World Trade Center was part of her life long before Sept. 11. She began her Wall Street career there and later became a partner at Cantor Fitzgerald. "I started at the Dean Witter Reynolds training program, which was located down in the North Tower. Upon our graduation, we were up in the Windows on the World, and it was a beautiful moment of just the beginning," Manning said. On Sept. 11, Manning was running late. She arrived at the North Tower just as the first plane hit.
Career coach talks August Jobs Report
Stocks fell to end the week Friday after the latest monthly jobs report showed a hiring surge in August. Analysts say the strong report has reignited fears about a rate hike. Employers added 162,000 jobs last month and the unemployment rate held steady at 4.1%. While August saw the strongest monthly gains in job since March, wage growth is not keeping up with rising inflation. The current inflation rate is above the Federal Reserve's target.
Former New York Junior League president reflects on meeting Gloria Steinem
Tributes continue to pour in for feminist icon and trailblazer Gloria Steinem following her death on Wednesday. New Yorkers have been paying their respects outside her Upper East Side home, leaving bouquets of flowers by the fence of the brownstone. Lisa Hathaway Stella, former president of the New York Junior League, joined "The Rush Hour" on Friday to talk about a personal encounter with Gloria Steinem, as well as her life and legacy. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Author talks new book on human connection in age of AI
Some critics have voiced their concerns about the city's ban on generative AI in public school classrooms for 2-K thru eighth grade. In high schools, there will be programs on the potential outcomes the technology could have on students' cognition and social development.
Business Advisory Council member talks interest rates
Federal Reserve Governor Michael Barr said Tuesday that he’s prepared to support an interest rate hike if inflation doesn’t begin to ease. His remarks come as inflation remains high and after Treasury yields rose again amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Barr is a voting member on the rate-setting Federal Open Market Committee.
Life of location scout showcased in 'The Scout;' set to premiere at Film Forum
Behind some of the most iconic films shot here in the city are location scouts who find ordinary houses, apartments and street corners to match a filmmaker's creative vision. The film "The Scout" follows a day in the life of location scout Sofia as she struggles to meet the demands of her employer while stepping into the private spaces of strangers. The film premiered at the Tribeca Festival in 2025 and will make its theatrical debut at the Film Forum on Sept. 25.
Aviation safety expert on FAA moving to fire workers who allegedly left early before fatal LGA crash
Multiple reports say the Federal Aviation Administration is taking steps to fire air traffic controllers who were on duty the night of a deadly plane collision at LaGuardia Airport that killed two pilots back in March. FAA officials alleged two employees left about an hour before their shifts ended, leaving just two on duty. The New York Times reports that these two controllers are among a dozen nationwide whom the FAA is investigating for potential timecard fraud.
9th annual Rockaway Film Festival returns to Arverne Cinema
The ninth annual Rockaway Film Festival returns to Arverne Cinema next week. The event features not only a dynamic lineup of screenings but also musical and theatrical performances. Co-creator of the festival, Sam Fleischner, and one of the participating directors, Marnie Ellen Hertzler, joined "The Rush Hour" to talk about the festival on Friday.
Rolling Stone contributor reflects on legacy of Dolly Parton
Tributes continue to pour in for legendary singer and actress Dolly Parton. The country star died earlier this week after a brief battle with cancer. Anthony DeCurtis, contributing editor for Rolling Stone magazine, joined "The Rush Hour" on Wednesday to talk about her impact on the industry and why "everyone loves Dolly." Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Doctor reacts to executive order calling for revamp to childhood vaccine recommendations
Earlier this week, President Donald Trump signed an executive order calling for the separation of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccines into three different shots. A change from the current three-in-one injection. It comes just three weeks before the beginning of the school year, as some city parents make appointments to get their young students immunized. Some public health experts have raised concerns that spreading out the shots could lead to an increased risk of infection.
United Way of New York City partners with Trinity Church amid SNAP benefit losses
More than 22,000 New Yorkers lost SNAP benefits in June after federal cuts and stricter work requirements to access the program took effect. Advocates said they fear that many more New Yorkers could also be at risk of losing their benefits. Now, the United Way of New York City is partnering with Trinity Church in Lower Manhattan to launch a new citywide initiative designed to prepare for the next wave of benefit losses.
REBNY president reacts to luxury second-home tax hearing
The City Council heard from New Yorkers Tuesday as debate continues over Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s tax on luxury second homes. The tax applies to non-primary residences in New York City worth more than $5 million. During the hearing, property owners and other New Yorkers raised concerns about the tax itself and the process the city has used to identify potentially affected properties.
Queens World Film Festival to host festival celebrating First Amendment
The Queens World Film Festival has screened more than 2,000 films from 135 nations and over 600 films from all five boroughs over the past 16 years. In November, Queens World will host a film and arts festival celebrating the core freedoms of the First Amendment with a slate of performances and short films. Katha Cato, the founding executive director of the Queens World Film Festival, joined “The Rush Hour” on Monday to talk more about the upcoming festival and other programs.
Fordham associate law professor on Luigi Mangione's guilty plea
Luigi Mangione has pleaded guilty to federal stalking charges in connection to the 2024 killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. The plea comes weeks before Mangione was set to go on trial for his state murder charge, which his lawyers have filed a motion to be dismissed on double jeopardy grounds. Cheryl Bader, a clinical associate professor at Fordham University's School of Law, joined "The Rush Hour" to talk about the developments in Mangione's cases.
New reservation app allows guests to order, pay before being seated
A new reservation app is offering a new dining experience for restaurant guests in a hurry by allowing them to choose their dining duration, order meals and pay right from the platform before even sitting down at the table. The Ready to Dine app aims to connect the needs of diners with the business needs of restaurants by cutting down wait times and creating a seamless dining experience.
Real estate broker weighs in on pied-à-terre tax lawsuit
Last week, homeowners filed a lawsuit challenging the Mamdani administration’s rollout of the new pied-à-terre tax. The lawsuit claims the city forced the burden of proving full-time residency onto city homeowners and residents. Mayor Zohran Mamdani said the city is prepared to defend the tax in court. Corcoran real estate broker Noble Black joined “The Rush Hour” on Monday to talk more about the tax and real estate impacting city markets. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Public Service Retirees call for better healthcare protections
More spending cuts are expected soon at City Hall. Mayor Zohran Mamdani ordered every agency to find savings of at least 2.5% ahead of next year without reducing services or cutting jobs. It came after the Mamdani administration delayed health care payments for retired city workers until December. Marianne Pizzitola, the president of the city's Organization of Public Service Retirees, joined "The Rush Hour" on Wednesday to talk about it. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
City officials launch $67.5M expansion for preschool special education
Earlier this month, city officials announced a $67 million investment for preschool special education. This will open programs in every borough aimed at helping students with Individualized Education Plans, or IEPs. City officials said it will set up students for success from the beginning of their education.
State senator talks new rules for SAFE for Kids Act Original
Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled new rules for social media companies to be in compliance with the SAFE for Kids Act, which is set to go into effect in January. The legislation will require companies to ban addictive algorithms and restrict nighttime notifications for users under 18, among other rules. State officials hope the law will help address mental health struggles among younger New Yorkers. State Sen.
Trade expert weighs in on Trump administration's tariffs
President Donald Trump has reimposed double-digit tariffs on dozens of U.S. trading partners around the world. Those countries account for nearly 100% of American imports. The administration argues that the countries being taxed are not doing enough to enforce bans on child labor. The tariff-rates for those countries are between 10% and 12.5%. The Supreme Court struck down the administration’s previous attempt to impose tariffs on U.S. trading partners.
New York could face $500B+ in storm prevention costs by 2050
New York State is projected to spend more than $500 billion on infrastructure improvements to help communities prepare for the impacts of climate change, according to some of the latest research. Rebuild by Design, a nonprofit, shows that without the funds, New Yorkers could face higher costs in the form of tax increases, insurance hikes and home repairs. Amy Chester, director of Rebuild by Design, joined "The Rush Hour" on Monday to talk more about the research and the need for infrastructure.
Jamaica Bay Festival brings together nature and community
This weekend, community organizations along the city’s shorelines are coming together for the annual Jamaica Bay Festival. The event offers dozens of free activities, highlighting the wildlife and recreational opportunities around Jamaica Bay, which is home to more than 500 different species of animals and is one of the most ecologically significant natural areas in the region.
DSNY continues rollout of empire bins across five boroughs
The city's new plan to eliminate sidewalk trash bags and replace them with on-street containers is getting some pushback from residents. Some say the new bins cut back on the number of already limited parking spots in neighborhoods. City officials say they are standing by the empire bins and want the plan fully rolled out by 2032. Sanitation Commissioner Gregory Anderson joined "The Rush Hour" with more on the rollout of the bins. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Former Manhattan assistant DA reflects on 26 Federal Plaza attack and community safety
The NYPD and FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force are continuing the investigation of the incendiary device that was detonated outside of 26 Federal Plaza Monday. The NYPD said they responded to calls of an active shooter and explosion outside the federal building. The 43-year-old suspect and former Army soldier, Andrew Arrabaca, remains in custody.
Airbnb and other short rental companies push back on Local Law 18
Short-term rental companies like Airbnb and VRBO are urging the city to reduce the restrictions enacted by Local Law 18, which requires rental hosts to register with the Mayor’s Office of Special Enforcement. However, the city argues that the law protects visitors from potential rental schemes and protects housing for New Yorkers amid an ongoing housing shortage.
Advocacy group uses mentorship to combat violence
Police are still searching for suspects wanted in connection to the fatal shooting of a Brooklyn man during a basketball tournament in Harlem. Two other people were also injured in the shooting. A rally was held earlier in the week, calling for action against gun violence. One group that participated in the event was Living Redemption, which uses mentorship and community empowerment to work with at-risk youth. Rev.
Upper West Side arts nonprofit offers millions in rent for West Park Presbyterian Church
The fight to keep West Park Presbyterian Church from being demolished continues after an arts nonprofit sent an offer to the Landmark Preservation Commission to keep the building up. The Center at West Park used to host community theater and performances at the church before being ordered to vacate in 2025. Now, the group is offering to pay $60,000 a month in rent for the next 10 years and fund a multimillion trust to cover the 135-year-old building’s restoration costs.
Speaker Menin calls to abolish horse-drawn carriages and more action to prevent Legionnaires'
One of the leading voices in support of legislation to abolish horse-drawn carriages in Central Park is City Council Speaker Julie Menin. She posted a video on social media ahead of the hearing, sharing her endorsement of the bill. Speaker Menin joined “The Rush Hour” on Wednesday to talk about the legislation and what action should be taken to mitigate and prevent Legionnaires’ disease in Manhattan. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Central Park Conservancy defends stance on horse-drawn carriages
On Wednesday, the City Council will consider a bill that would phase out carriage horses in Central Park. Romanch’s Law is named after the 18-year-old tourist who was killed in an incident involving a runaway horse last month. The legislation would also create a workforce development program to transition carriage drivers into new positions. It has the support of more than 20 City Council members, as well as the Central Park Conservancy.
Citizens Union reacts to City Council proposal to raise pay for elected officials
The City Council is expected to enact new legislation that would give elected officials an 18.2% pay raise after their salaries remained flat for the last 10 years. While some are skeptical of the measure, good government groups argue that the pay bump will attract the best candidates to the job. Grace Rauh, the executive director of Citizens Union, joined “The Rush Hour” on Monday to talk more about the proposed legislation. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
City launches electric food cart pilot program to phase out diesel generators
Earlier this week, the city announced a new electric food cart pilot program with the goal of phasing out diesel generators for the city’s more than 20,000 food carts. Ten food carts in Queens have been selected to test rechargeable electric batteries for six months. Advocates say they hope it will create safer working conditions for street vendors and quieter streets for New Yorkers.
Gubernatorial candidate defends use of AI in politics, slams progressive congressional candidates
The race for governor is heating up, with less than four months until Election Day. Gov. Kathy Hochul is seeking reelection, with former City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams running as her lieutenant governor. On the Republican ticket is Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, who is running alongside Madison County Sheriff Todd Hood.
Commercial real estate executive delves into the ‘creative destruction’ of office conversions in the city
The city says the former Pfizer headquarters on 42nd Street is stable for now as crews continue to work to stabilize the building and investigate its structural failures. The incident poses the question about the department’s review process and the future of office to residential conversions in the city. John Maher, the vice chair of CBRE, joined “The Rush Hour” on Thursday to talk about the future of office conversions following the incident in Midtown.
Longtime REBNY member weighs in on unstable Midtown building
The former Pfizer headquarters on 42nd Street, amid a conversion to a residential building, became unstable Tuesday morning after structural columns buckled. The area near Grand Central remains a frozen zone as engineers work to shore up the structure, and city officials say the building remains unstable. Joseph Aquino, a commercial real estate adviser and member of the Real Estate Board of New York, joined "The Rush Hour" on Tuesday to talk more about it.
Commercial real estate adviser weighs in on unstable Midtown building
The former Pfizer headquarters on 42nd Street, amid a conversion to a residential building, became unstable Tuesday morning after structural columns buckled. The area near Grand Central remains a frozen zone as engineers work to shore up the structure, and city officials say the building remains unstable. Joseph Aquino, a commercial real estate adviser, joined "The Rush Hour" on Tuesday to talk more about it.
Deputy mayor for Housing and Planning on unstable Midtown building
City officials say they are working with developers to evaluate the structural integrity of 235 East 42nd St. Several blocks around the building, including a hotel and a school, were evacuated Tuesday morning after several floors of the building started to cave under stress. Traffic has also been diverted around the area. Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning Leila Bozorg joined “The Rush Hour” on Tuesday to talk about the latest on the scene and the investigation moving forward.
City health commissioner shares updates on heat deaths, Legionnaires' outbreak
The NYC Health Department has confirmed 18 cases of Legionnaires' disease on the Upper East Side. The department says it's sampling and testing water from all cooling tower systems in the area to reduce the risk of additional cases. Dr. Alister Martin, Commissioner of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, joined "The Rush Hour" on Monday to talk about the the ongoing investigation. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
New York director previews upcoming projects, including 'Legally Blonde' prequel
New York-based director Jason Moore is having a busy year. He’s the executive producer and director of the new Amazonseries "Elle," which is a prequel to the "Legally Blonde" films, he recently staged the first revival of "Avenue Q" in London’s West End, and he’s set to direct the upcoming "Murder, She Wrote" film starring Jamie Lee Curtis. Moore joined "The Rush Hour" on Monday to talk about the upcoming projects. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Transport Workers Union official talks fate of horse carriages in city
Carriage horse rides in Central Park are expected to resume Tuesday, nearly a week after an 18-year-old Romanch Mahajan was fatally thrown to the ground from a carriage. The incident has renewed calls to end the practice. Alexander Kemp, administrative vice president at TWU Local 100, joined "The Rush Hour" on Monday to talk more about the incident and the proposed legislation aiming to ban horse carriages. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Community organizer leads Black history walking tours and exhibitions
A new project hopes to connect New Yorkers with the history of the African Diaspora's impact on the American Revolution. Kamau Ware, founder of the Black Gotham Experience, spoke with Annika Pergament about the project, and the importance of Juneteenth. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
'Owning Manhattan' star shares summer home-buying tips
The city’s real estate market is looking for a summer surge after strong sales in May and a recent drop in mortgage rates. While the summer market can be competitive, there are strategies buyers can use to get the best deal. Peter Zaitzeff, a broker for Serhant and star of “Owning Manhattan” on Netflix, joined “The Rush Hour” on Wednesday to talk about this year’s real estate trends. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
Wall Street veteran analyzes impact of Knicks playoffs run
There's lots of excitement ahead of Thursday's ticker-tape parade, celebrating the Knicks NBA Finals win. Their playoff run didn't just create excitement and local pride for the city, it also generated millions for the local economy. Wall Street veteran and CEO of Market Rebellion Marc Lopresti joined "The Rush Hour" on Wednesday to talk more. Tap the video player above to watch the interview.
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