"Sleight of hand," "litany of needless fights," "ugly racial polarization" - just some of the phrases in this week's New York magazine's cover story about Rudy Giuliani, the former mayor turned presidential candidate. Chris Smith's article serves as both refresher to New Yorkers about Giuliani's reign as mayor with some fun tidbits (did you realize that then-Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik commissioned 30 miniature busts of himself?) as well as a cautionary tale to non-New Yorkers.......

We've had half a day to absorb the news, but it's still kind of crazy that Mayor Michael Bloomberg decided to drop his 6-years-old Republican coat for an unaffiliated one. Here's his official statement:“I have filed papers with the New York City Board of Elections to change my status as a voter and register as unaffiliated with any political party. Although my plans for the future haven’t changed, I believe this brings my affiliation......

After City Council recently passed a bill to regulate pedicabs, Mayor Bloomberg decided to wait a bit longer before signing it (however, he did sign three bills about nightlife safety). Angry pedicab owners seemed to influence the mayor, pleading that the bill would contradict the 2030 sustainable city initiative. Bloomberg has until March 30th to decide whether to sign, veto or leave it alone. If left alone, the bill would automatically become law. Mayor Bloomberg......

What'll it take to make Mayor Michael Bloomberg run for President next year? According to a former adviser, candidates who are either very conservative (like Mitt Romey) or very liberal (like John Edwards) will make the infamous Democrat-turned-Republican consider putting his billions behind a presidential campaign. Esther Fuchs, who served during Bloomberg's first term, said Mayor Mike is "80% probable" to run. So, that's like all of him, except his head? While some doubt either......

- Six-alarm fire in the Bronx rages through apartment building, leaving residents homeless and over 30 firefighter injured - Fascinating Observer article about Bloomberg's former deputy mayor Esther Fuchs - Nixzmary Brown's stepfather and mother plead not guilty to charges of her murder - The gentrification of Yorkville - good bye character, hello everything from a mall? - Star Jones getting hit in the face with a football - something for everyone! - And congratulations......