Jacob Flanagan
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Seal Salesman. Superfluous Man. Professional Black Friend. Opinions entirely my own.
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Articles by Jacob Flanagan
Consultation on equal pay reform: strengthening protections against pay discrimination on the basis of disability and ethnicity
What recruiters need to know The government has recently published a consultation proposing significant reforms to the equal pay system, including strengthening protections against pay discrimination on the basis of disability and ethnicity. The consultation sets out a package of potential reforms that outline the government’s views on how equal pay protections should be strengthened, including for people working in outsourced arrangements.
Skills England 2026: what recruiters need to know
Skills England has published its 2026 Annual Skills Report, setting out where skills demand will be concentrated, how funding and delivery will change, and what government expects from employers and local partners. For recruiters this is not abstract; it will shape skills policy over the coming years. The report is set out in six chapters, which outline what Skills England see as the biggest challenges in skills, and how they plan to address them.
The REC's response to Alan Milburn's interim report on youth inactivity
The government commissioned Young people and work: interim report on the increase in the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET), chaired by former Secretary of State for Health Alan Milburn, makes for stark reading. The interim report was published only hours after new data showing youth NEET levels have risen yet again, to near-record highs; almost one-in-seven people aged 16 to 24 are not in education, employment or training.
REC responds to the King's Speech 2026: Government must step on the gas to realise growth agenda
Policy REC responds to the King's Speech 2026: Government must step on the gas to realise growth agenda REC is glad to see growth prioritised, but businesses must be given the confidence to recruit. REC will continue to engage with government and update members. Government and campaigns 14th May 2026
Most New Yorkers think littering is a problem, but many still do it: Report
A new survey finds that while most New Yorkers say they care about litter and take pride in their city, a significant number still admit to tossing trash improperly. The data comes from a March 2025 survey of over 1,000 city residents conducted by the non-profit Sanitation Foundation.
16-year-old girl shot in the head in the Bronx: NYPD
A 16-year-old girl has been hospitalized in critical condition after she was struck in the head by a stray bullet in the Bronx, police say. What we know: The victim, a 16-year-old girl, was shot in the head Monday afternoon in the Bronx. According to police, the shooting happened around 5:05 p.m. near Home Street and Tinton Avenue. The girl was rushed to Lincoln Hospital in critical condition. She was reportedly struck by a stray bullet during a school yard incident.
14-year-old opens fire, kills 16-year-old girl outside Bronx school: NYPD
The Brief A 16-year-old girl was shot and killed Monday near Bronx Latin School. Police say a 14-year-old boy opened fire after a group of teens got into a fistfight. The victim and the shooter were not students at the school; police say they know who shooter is and are tracking him down NEW YORK - Police are hunting for a 14-year-old gunman after a 16-year-old girl was struck in the head by a stray bullet and killed in the Bronx on Monday.
Queens man arrested for alleged rape of 14-year-old girl: NYPD
A 23-year-old Queens man has been arrested in connection with multiple alleged rape incidents involving a 14-year-old girl. What we know: Police say they arrested Ramos Angel Friday evening for multiple alleged rape incidents involving a 14-year-old female victim. He is facing charges of second-degree rape, aggravated sexual abuse and endangering the welfare of a child, among other charges.
Newark mayor Ras Baraka denies trespassing at immigration detention center following arrest
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested outside a newly opened federal immigration detention center on Friday. The Democrat, who is running for governor, says he was invited to the facility and did not trespass. But federal officials say he ignored warnings to leave. What we know: Newark Mayor Ras Baraka has denied trespassing at a new federal immigration detention center during a confrontation that led to his arrest while he was at the facility with three members of Congress.
Newark mayor Ras Baraka denies trespassing at immigration detention center following arrest
The Brief Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested outside a new ICE detention facility after a confrontation with federal agents; he denies trespassing and says he was invited. Video shows Baraka on the public side of the gate before ICE agents arrested him and took him into custody. The incident comes amid political tensions over the facility’s opening, which Baraka and others oppose due to permit concerns and federal immigration policy.
Flood watch in effect as heavy rain threatens NYC through Friday night
A flood watch is now in effect for the New York City region through late Friday night as a prolonged period of rain raises the risk for flash flooding, especially in low-lying and poor-drainage areas. Rainfall totals may exceed 2 inches in some locations, with the National Weather Service warning of possible flooding from excessive runoff.
EXCLISIVE: Whistleblower speaks out after exposing abuse at Anderson Center for Autism
A caregiver at the Anderson Center for Autism has been sentenced to prison following disturbing video that exposed abuse of a non-verbal autistic teenager. The man who filmed the abuse, a whistleblower and former staff member, is now speaking exclusively to FOX 5 about what he witnessed inside the facility.
BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! announces full 2025 summer lineup
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 15: Tabou Combo performs at the BAYO BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Benefit Concert at Prospect Park Bandshell on June 15, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Marleen Moise/Getty Images) The BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival has revealed the full 2025 lineup for its long-running summer music series at Prospect Park’s Lena Horne Bandshell. The series will feature four ticketed benefit concerts and more than a dozen free performances.
NYC braced for soggy week as rain, storms lash region
New York City and much of the Northeast are stuck in a rainy pattern this week, with forecasters warning of flash flooding, thunderstorms, and rising river levels. A second storm system could bring even more rain by the weekend. What we know: The National Weather Service is forecasting several rounds of rain and thunderstorms across New York City through Friday.
NJ movie theater evacuated after ceiling collapses; no injures reported
The ceiling of a movie theater in Cranford, New Jersey collapsed on Wednesday night. What we know: Dozens of firefighters were called to the scene at the Cranford Theater at 25 North Avenue West at around 7:30 p.m. following a report of a ceiling collapse. The building was evacuated, and first responders managed to determine that everyone inside the theater had gotten out safely. No injuries have been reported. The cause of the collapse is under investigation.
NJ movie theater evacuated after ceiling collapses; no injures reported
NEW JERSEY - The ceiling of a movie theater in Cranford, New Jersey collapsed on Wednesday night. What we know Dozens of firefighters were called to the scene at the Cranford Theater at 25 North Avenue West at around 7:30 p.m. following a report of a ceiling collapse. The building was evacuated, and first responders managed to determine that everyone inside the theater had gotten out safely. No injuries have been reported. The cause of the collapse is under investigation.
White powder sent to Manhattan courthouse triggers hazmat response
A suspicious package containing white powder was reported Wednesday afternoon at the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse at 100 Centre Street. What we know: The NYPD says officers responded just after 4 p.m. to a report of a suspicious package containing white powder on the 12th floor of the courthouse at 100 Centre Street. According to the FDNY, the call was received at 4:24 p.m. Crews arrived at the scene and confirmed the presence of the powder. There were no injuries or reported illnesses.
White powder sent to Manhattan Criminal Courthouse triggers hazmat response
A suspicious package containing white powder was reported Wednesday afternoon at the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse at 100 Centre Street. Seven people were exposed and isolated, but no injuries or illnesses were reported. What we know A spokesperson for the New York State Office of Court Administration said the envelope containing the powder arrived through U.S. Mail and was opened around 4 p.m. on the twelfth floor of the courthouse.
Suspect arrested in deadly NYC subway stabbing: NYPD
Police say a man has been arrested and charged in connection with a fatal stabbing at the Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall subway station. Luis Jose-Duarte, 46, is accused of killing a 38-year-old man during Friday morning’s rush hour commute. What we know: Police say Luis Jose-Duarte has been charged with first-degree manslaughter. According to authorities, on April 25, 38-year-old John Sheldon was riding a southbound train on the 4/5/6 line when he got into a dispute with Jose-Duarte.
Mayor Eric Adams petitions to run on 'EndAntiSemitism' ballot line
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 20: ADL regional director Scott Richman andNew York City Mayor Eric Adams attend Anti-Defamation League annual Walk Against Hate in Van Cortland Park in New York on August 20, 2023.
NYC EMT Alison Russo's accused killer deemed unfit for trial, lawyers say
The man accused of killing EMT Lt. Alison Russo in 2022 may not stand trial, after an emotional day in court. What we know: Peter Zisopoulos is accused of fatally stabbing 61-year-old EMT Lt. Alison Russo 19 times in September 2022 while she was on duty, getting lunch near Station 49 in Astoria, Queens.
Gov. Hochul announces tentative deal on $250B NY state budget
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a tentative agreement on New York’s $254 billion state budget Monday night, nearly a month after the April 1 deadline. The plan includes major investments in public safety, transportation, and new regulations for students. What we know: The tentative budget deal includes $370 million for gun violence prevention programs and an increase in payroll taxes on large companies to fully fund the MTA’s capital plan.
Gov. Hochul announces tentative deal on $250B NY state budget
Jacob Flanagan Tue, April 29, 2025 at 1:48 AM UTC 1 min read NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MARCH 03: New York Gov. Kathy Hochul holds a press conference following a roundtable discussion about federal DOGE layoffs on March 3, 2025 in New York City. The governor outlined several state programs, tools, and benefits for federal workers who were impacted by DOGE layoffs. Hochul went on about how New York State is seeking well-qualified federal workers with years of experience as an asset.
FAA equipment outage grounds flights at Newark, triggers nationwide delays
Flights at Newark Liberty International Airport were grounded Monday afternoon following a critical FAA equipment outage. The FAA issued a ground stop for Newark-bound flights around 1:53 p.m. due to an equipment failure. Departures headed to Newark were held at their origin airports through at least 5 p.m., officials said. "Due to FAA equipment outage, arrivals and departures are currently delayed at EWR. Please contact your airline for flight status," airport officials posted on X.
Williamsburg residents pelted with liquids tossed from apartment window
Residents in Williamsburg, Brooklyn say someone has been throwing cooking oil, bleach, and other liquids from a second-floor apartment window onto pedestrians below. The culprit has somehow managed to go unidentified, as neighbors say they're increasingly afraid to walk on one side of the street. What we know: According to residents near North 5th and 6th streets along Kent Avenue, the attacks have been happening since December.
Williamsburg residents pelted with liquids tossed from apartment window
NEW YORK - Residents in Williamsburg, Brooklyn say someone has been throwing cooking oil, bleach, and other liquids from a second-floor apartment window onto pedestrians below. The culprit has somehow managed to go unidentified, as neighbors say they're increasingly afraid to walk on one side of the street. What we know According to residents near North 5th and 6th streets along Kent Avenue, the attacks have been happening since December.
New York Giants select Abdul Carter with third pick of 2025 NFL Draft
article MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 9: Abdul Carter #11 of the Penn State Nittany Lions stands on the field during the second half of the Orange Bowl against the Notre Dame Fighting Irishat Hard Rock Stadium on January 9, 2025 in Miami Gardens, Florida. NEW YORK - The New York Giants have selected Penn State defensive end Abdul Carter with the third pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Carter was named a unanimous All-American in 2024 and was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year.
Pro-Palestinian protesters appear to attempt CCNY campus takeover
Students and other protestors occupy City College on April 25, 2024, in Manhattan, New York. (Barry Williams/New York Daily News/Tribune News Service via Getty Images) A group of students have reportedly gathered on the quad at City College of New York to protest the ongoing war in Gaza. The campus of the CCNY Medical School was reportedly closed after students announced that they had set up a "liberated zone" inside.
NYC air quality map: Live updates as NJ wildfire smoke reaches Tri-State
Smoke from a wildfire burning in New Jersey is drifting into New York City, prompting state officials to issue an Air Quality Health Advisory for Thursday. JUMP TO: AIR QUALITY MAP l Why is the air quality unhealthy today? What we know: The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, as well as the State Department of Health, issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for fine particulate matter from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on Thursday.
SummerStage 2025 lineup unveiled: Free concerts return to NYC parks
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 10: Fonseca performs onstage during the Latin Alternative Music Conference (LAMC) Summerstage Event at Central Park on July 10, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Santiago Felipe/Getty Images for The Latin Recording Academy) SummerStage is returning for its 39th year, filling parks across New York City with music, dancing, and good vibes.
Your guide to SummerStage 2025: Dates, headliners and where to go
SummerStage 2025 runs May 17–Oct. 9 with over 70 concerts across Central Park and 12 NYC neighborhood parks. Nearly all shows are free, including performances by Femi Kuti, The Roots, Jessica Pratt, and Big Freedia. Some shows are curated by artists and reflect the city’s cultural mix—from Ghanafest-NY in the Bronx to Blacktronika in Harlem. NEW YORK - SummerStage is returning for its 39th year, filling parks across New York City with music, dancing, and good vibes.
Massive Ocean County, NJ wildfire forces evacuations, shuts down Garden State Parkway
A major wildfire burning in the Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area in Barnegat Township, New Jersey, has spread across 1,200 acres, forced multiple evacuations, and shut down portions of the Garden State Parkway, officials said Tuesday. What we know: The fire, being referred to as the Jones Wildfire, was first reported by the New Jersey Forest Fire Service around 12:22 p.m. on Tuesday. As of 5 p.m., officials said the blaze was 0% contained.
27 Tren de Aragua members charged in NYC RICO, sex trafficking, drugs bust
Federal authorities have charged 27 people tied to the violent Venezuealan gang Tren de Aragua with crimes including racketeering, sex trafficking, drug trafficking, robbery, and firearms offenses. The sweeping indictments are the first to name Tren de Aragua as a criminal enterprise in the United States. What we know: Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky announced the indictments charging individuals connected to Tren de Aragua and a splinter group known as Anti-Tren.
Feds charge 27 in NYC Tren de Aragua crackdown
The Brief 27 people with ties to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua and splinter group Anti-Tren have been indicted on racketeering, sex trafficking, drug, and firearms charges in New York. Officials say victims were trafficked from Venezuela, forced into sex work, and controlled with threats, kidnappings, and violence. Border Czar Tom Homan and Mayor Eric Adams said the takedown shows why federal-local cooperation matters—and took aim at critics blocking ICE access to Rikers Island.
Subway rider stabbed in Bronx; NYPD seek suspect
The NYPD is asking for the public’s help in identifying a man wanted in connection with a stabbing on a Bronx subway train Friday morning. What we know: Police say a 21-year-old man was stabbed multiple times while riding a southbound 5 train around 7:00 a.m. on Friday, April 18. The incident occurred near the East 219th Street subway station, within the jurisdiction of the 47th Precinct and Transit District 12.
Subway rider stabbed in Bronx; NYPD seek suspect
NEW YORK - The NYPD is asking for the public’s help in identifying a man wanted in connection with a stabbing on a Bronx subway train Friday morning. What we know Police say a 21-year-old man was stabbed multiple times while riding a southbound 5 train around 7:00 a.m. on Friday, April 18. The incident occurred near the East 219th Street subway station, within the jurisdiction of the 47th Precinct and Transit District 12.
Federal government takes control of Penn Station renovation
The Trump administration has announced that it is taking over the renovation of Penn Station. What we know: The U.S. Department of Transportation has confirmed that Amtrak and the department itself will take over from the MTA in overseeing the massive infrastructure project. Officials say this transfer of responsibility is expected to save $120 million. It is unclear at this time whether new renovation plans will be introduced or if the current scope of work will change under federal oversight.
Federal government takes control of Penn Station renovation
NEW YORK - President Donald Trump's administration is taking control of the $7 billion reconstruction project for New York City's busy but aging Penn Station, sidelining the city's mass transit agency, the transportation chief said Thursday. What we know State and city officials have sought for years to remake the country’s busiest rail hub, which is beleaguered by problems ranging from aging tracks to dreary commuter passageways.
Trump administration pushes DOJ to investigate NY AG Letitia James
The Federal Housing Finance Agency has referred New York Attorney General Letitia James to the Justice Department for potential federal prosecution, alleging mortgage fraud. The claims include misrepresentation of primary residence and property details. James' office denies any wrongdoing, framing the move as politically motivated.
Northern Lights could be visible from New York City during rare geomagnetic storm
New Yorkers may get a rare glimpse of the Northern Lights late Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning, thanks to a strong geomagnetic storm triggered by multiple magnetic eruptions on the Sun. The storm could push the aurora borealis farther south than usual, potentially allowing the phenomenon to be seen across parts of the Northeast — including the New York City metro area — if skies cooperate. WHAT IS A GEOMAGNETIC STORM? Potential Aurora Viewing for early Wednesday morning.
Connecticut man held captive for 20 years speaks publicly for first time
A Connecticut man who told authorities he was held captive for two decades is speaking out for the first time, thanking those who helped rescue and care for him — and announcing he is reclaiming his identity. The 32-year-old, who says he endured years of abuse and neglect, now goes by "S" and is asking for accountability as investigations continue.
NYC Council sues Mayor Adams over executive order returning ICE to Rikers Island
The New York City Council has filed a lawsuit against Mayor Eric Adams over his administration’s decision to bring federal immigration agents back to Rikers Island. Lawmakers accuse the mayor of abusing his authority and allege the move was part of a politically motivated agreement with the Trump administration.
Northern Lights could be visible from New York City during rare geomagnetic storm
NEW YORK - New Yorkers may get a rare glimpse of the Northern Lights late Tuesday night into early Wednesday morning, thanks to a strong geomagnetic storm triggered by multiple magnetic eruptions on the Sun. The storm could push the aurora borealis farther south than usual, potentially allowing the phenomenon to be seen across parts of the Northeast — including the New York City metro area — if skies cooperate. WHAT IS A GEOMAGNETIC STORM?
Connecticut man held captive for 20 years speaks publicly for first time
CONNECTICUT - A Connecticut man who told authorities he was held captive for two decades is speaking out for the first time, thanking those who helped rescue and care for him — and announcing he is reclaiming his identity. The 32-year-old, who says he endured years of abuse and neglect, now goes by "S" and is asking for accountability as investigations continue.
AI tool aims to catch abuse in group homes after shocking video
A whistleblower’s video exposing the abuse of an autistic teenager at a well-known autism center in New York has led to criminal charges—and inspired a father to create an AI-based solution to protect vulnerable individuals from future harm. What we know: Late last year, a whistle-blower released a shocking video of a caregiver at the Anderson Center for Autism near Poughkeepsie assaulting an autistic teenage boy.
AI tool aims to catch abuse in group homes after shocking video
NEW YORK - A whistleblower’s video exposing the abuse of an autistic teenager at a well-known autism center in New York has led to criminal charges—and inspired a father to create an AI-based solution to protect vulnerable individuals from future harm. What we know Late last year, a whistle-blower released a shocking video of a caregiver at the Anderson Center for Autism near Poughkeepsie assaulting an autistic teenage boy.
NYPD launches quality of life crackdown to tackle open drug use, illegal parking
The NYPD has launched a new "quality of life" initiative targeting low-level offenses, including open drug use, panhandling, illegal parking, and more. The pilot program began Monday in five precincts across New York City, including one in the Bronx. What we know: As part of the pilot program, five city police precincts will deploy specialized units tasked with directly addressing complaints from residents related to everyday nuisances.
Sean 'Diddy' Combs pleads not guilty to new sex trafficking charges
Disgraced hip-hop mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs pleaded not guilty Monday to new sex trafficking charges filed just one month before his federal trial is set to begin. What we know: Combs entered not guilty pleas to a new Mann Act charge filed April 3 and an allegation that he forced a woman into sex trafficking between 2021 and 2023. The Bad Boy Records co-founder also faces multiple counts of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and related offenses — all of which he denies.
Brooklyn residents say overnight jail construction is disrupting their lives
Construction on a new jail in Boerum Hill is testing the patience of people living nearby in Brooklyn. Residents say late-night work is ruining their quality of life — and they still have years to go before it’s done. What we know: Construction on the new borough-based Brooklyn jail is underway in Boerum Hill — and neighbors say it’s happening at all hours.
Brooklyn residents say overnight jail construction is disrupting their lives
BROOKLYN - Construction on a new jail in Boerum Hill is testing the patience of people living nearby in Brooklyn. Residents say late-night work is ruining their quality of life — and they still have years to go before it’s done. What we know Construction on the new borough-based Brooklyn jail is underway in Boerum Hill — and neighbors say it’s happening at all hours.
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