City Limits rounds up the latest housing and land use-related events, public hearings and affordable housing lotteries that are ending soon.

Welcome to City Limits’ NYC Housing Calendar, a weekly feature where we round up the latest housing and land use-related events and hearings, as well as upcoming affordable housing lotteries that are ending soon.

Know of an event we should include in next week’s calendar? Email us.

Upcoming Housing and Land Use-Related Events:

Monday, Sept. 9 at 1 p.m.: The NYC Planning Commission will hold a review session. More here.

Monday, Sept. 9 at 6:30 p.m.: Brooklyn Community Board 7 will hold a public hearing on a land use application for a proposed rezoning at the Arrow Linen Supply Co. site (441 & 467 Prospect Ave.). More here.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 9:30 a.m.: The City’s Landmarks and Preservation Commission will meet. More here.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 10 a.m.: The NYC Council’s General Welfare committee will hold an oversight hearing on the Human Resources Administration’s career services. More here.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 11 a.m.: The NYC Council’s Subcommittee on Landmarks, Public Sitings and Dispositions will meet regarding landmark designations for the Brooklyn Edison Building and the Willoughby Hart Historic District. More here.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 12 p.m.: The NYC Council’s Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchises will meet regarding land use applications for the 21st Street Rezoning, Marcus Garvey Article XI and the MSK Pavilion. More here.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 2 p.m.: The NYC Council’s Committee on Land Use will meet. More here.

Tuesday, Sept. 10 at 4 p.m.: The Manhattan Borough President’s Office will host a housing and tenant rights workshop at the Grand Street Settlement on the Lower East Side. More here.

Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 10 a.m.: The NYC Planning Commission will hold a public meeting to vote on the following land use applications: 215 Lexington Avenue DOHMH Office Space, 1680 Southern Boulevard (Casa Boricua), 60 East 93rd Street, South Jamaica Gateway Rezoning and 2390 McDonald Avenue Rezoning. More here.

Thursday, Sept. 12 at 9:30 a.m.: The NYC Council’s Committee on Housing and Buildings is expected to vote on a bill that would require city agencies to conduct outreach and educate tenants about vacate orders following a fire in their building, including information on their rights of occupancy, responsibilities of landlords and what may constitute harassment. More here.

Thursday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m.: The Department of Housing, Preservation and Development will host an outreach event at City Councilmember Carlina Rivera’s office in the East Village, offering information and resources on how to apply for affordable housing, file a housing complaint and more. More here.

Thursday, Sept. 12 at 5:30 p.m.: New Leaders Council-NYC will host a panel discussion on “The Past, Present, and Future of Affordable Housing,” with Councilmember Pierina Sanchez and other experts at the Bronx Library Center. More here.

Saturday, Sept. 14 at 5:30 p.m.: The Western Queens Community Land Trust will hold a potluck and “sleep in” to call for parkland and a school at city-owned sites on the Long Island City waterfront. More here.

NYC Affordable Housing Lotteries Ending Soon: The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) are closing lotteries on the following subsidized buildings over the next week.

62 Martense Street Apartments, Brooklyn, for households earning between $112,526 – $218,010.

65 4th Avenue Apartments, Brooklyn, for households earning between $110,880 – $181,740.

Mason Gray aka 959 Sterling Place Apartments, Brooklyn, for households earning between $107,246 – $218,010.

807 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, for households earning between $106,458 – $218,010.

3187 Grand Concourse Ave Apartments, Bronx, for households earning between $73,920 – $181,740.

The Baronial aka 665 East 183rd Street Apartments, Bronx, for households earning between $103,303 – $218,010

Harborview Senior Apartments AKA 80 Scarboro Ave Apartments, Staten Island, for households earning between

By TOM KRISHER

DETROIT (AP) — The U.S. government’s road safety agency wants the auto industry to design new vehicles including i ncreasingly large SUVs and pickup trucks so they reduce pedestrian deaths and injuries.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Monday that it’s proposing a new rule setting testing and performance requirements to minimize the risk of pedestrian head injuries.

The rule would cover all passenger vehicles weighing 10,000 pounds or less, but it’s is aimed largely at big SUVs and pickups, which have grown in size and hood height over the years, causing blind spots for drivers.

NHTSA said pedestrian deaths increased 57% from 2013 to 2022, from 4,779 to 7,522. The agency says the rule would save 67 lives per year.

Data show that nearly half of all pedestrian deaths when hit by the front of a vehicle are most common for SUVs and trucks.

The proposed rule, required by Congress in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, would set test procedures to simulate head-to-hood impact as well as requirements to reduce the risk of head injuries. Human-like head dummies that simulate children and adults would be used in testing, NHTSA said in a prepared statement.

“We have a crisis of roadway deaths, and it’s even worse among vulnerable road users like pedestrians,” NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman said in the statement. “This proposed rule will ensure that vehicles will be designed to protect those inside and outside from serious injury or death.”

Messages were left Monday seeking comment from automakers and the industry’s main trade association.

The infrastructure law required NHTSA to make U.S. regulations match a global pedestrian safety rule, with a regulation that would focus on vehicles made uniquely for the U.S. market.

Through August, SUVs and trucks of all sizes accounted for almost 79% of new vehicles sales in the U.S., according to Motorintelligence.com.

Last year, an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety study found that vehicles with higher, more vertical front ends raise risks for pedestrians. The research arm of the insurance industry found that pickups, SUVs and vans with a hood height greater than 40 inches are about 45% more likely to cause deaths in pedestrian crashes than cars and other vehicles with a hood height of 30 inches or less and a sloping profile.

The authors also questioned whether wider pillars holding up roofs of the larger vehicles make it harder for drivers to spot people walking near the corners of vehicles.

Consumer Reports found in 2021 that elevated vehicle hoods also obstructed driver views of pedestrians crossing before them.

The magazine and website found that pickup truck hood heights have risen 11% since 2000. The hood of a 2017 Ford F-250 heavy-duty pickup was 55 inches off the ground, as tall as the roofs of some cars, Stockburger said.

Automakers and the public can comment on the proposal for 60 days, after which NHTSA will draw up a final regulation.

Which Sony smart TV is best?

When it comes to smart TVs, it’s difficult to find a better brand than Sony. Even as it develops new and exciting TVs with cutting-edge innovations, Sony still remembers the average consumer and produces smart TVs for every possible need and want.

The best Sony smart TV currently on the market is the Sony 65-inch 4K Ultra HD TV X90L Series: BRAVIA XR Full Array LED Smart Google TV. This Sony smart TV is the next best thing to a trip to your local theater. The included Google Assistant and Google TV make it that much easier to get started watching what you love.

What to know before you buy a Sony smart TV

4K and Ultra high definition

Ultra high definition and 4K are, in fact, the exact same thing. Most brands use a mix of 4K and UHD to market their TVs. 4K TVs have a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is over eight million pixels, and while true 4K is technically higher than this, it is only used by industry professionals.

8K TV

This is the latest breakthrough in TV resolution at a mind-numbing 7680 by 4320 pixels, which is over 33 million pixels! These TVs are as expensive as the pixel count is high, and almost no true 8K video or console gaming is actually available as of yet.

High dynamic range

TVs with HDR feature a much wider range and depth of colors than other TVs and greatly enhance the darkness of blacks and the sharpness of whites. More and more TVs are including HDR technology to the point where it is almost standard, but double-check the TV you’re looking to purchase as you really don’t want to miss out on this feature.

What to look for in a Sony smart TV

Sony smart TV size

The size of your Sony smart TV is always measured diagonally from the top left corner of the screen to the bottom right corner. It also always increases by increments of five. Double-check the total size of your potential TV before purchase. You don’t want to bring your new TV home and find it doesn’t fit where you need it to!

Sony smart TV inputs

The most common method of connecting to game consoles, Blu-ray players and other TV peripherals is high-definition multimedia interface cables, or HDMI cables. Most Sony smart TVs have at least four HDMI ports and usually include a few USB ports for good measure. If you still use older game consoles like the Nintendo Wii, you’ll need to either shop around for an older model TV that still has RCA inputs or purchase an RCA-to-HDMI adapter.

Sony smart TV lifespan

Considering the cost of most Sony smart TVs, you’ll want to be sure they’ll last as long as possible. Most TVs last for three to five years, but OLED TVs can last even longer.

How much you can expect to spend on a Sony smart TV

Sony is one of the best TV brands available, so the costs are quite high. Even the most affordable Sony smart TVs are at least $700, while the best models start at $2,000. They can cost several more thousand dollars, depending on the display size, quality and added features.

Sony smart TV FAQ

What’s the best way to clean my Sony smart TV screen?

A. Most dust and fingerprints can be removed with a soft, dry cloth. Persistent smudges may require a cloth dampened with water and vinegar. Use the least amount of pressure possible when cleaning your Sony smart TV. Too much pressure can damage the pixels and scratch the screen.

Do I need to buy the latest model Sony smart TV?

A. Not at all. In fact, not buying the very latest model may benefit you. Models that are a few years old usually have all the same bells and whistles as newer models while being a few hundred dollars cheaper or more.

What’s the best Sony smart TV to buy?

Top Sony smart TV

Sony 65-inch 4K Ultra HD TV X90L Series: BRAVIA XR Full Array LED Smart Google TV

What you need to know: If you’re looking for the closest possible experience to visiting your local theater, then this Sony smart TV with its high contrast LED display and enhanced audio is perfect for you.

What you’ll love: This Sony smart TV comes with Google Assistant and Google TV for the easiest possible streaming experience. It’s also got support for Dolby Atmos and exclusive features for enhancing graphics on PS5 games.

What you should consider: It does not have an OLED screen. Some people also complained that the viewing angles weren’t great.

Top Sony smart TV for the money

Sony 75-inch 4K Ultra HD TV X77L Series: LED Smart Google TV

What you need to know: It’s quite affordable for the many features included. With an incredible 4K display, you won’t even notice the difference between this and a higher-cost model.

What you’ll love: Voice controls make navigating between different apps and inputs a breeze, letting you spend more time watching what you love. It also can upscale content that was not filmed in 4K to a resolution close to 4K.

What you should consider: Some people found the menu confusing.

Worth checking out

Sony 65-inch Class BRAVIA XR A80L OLED 4K UHD Smart Google TV (2023)

What you need to know: This TV’s enhanced graphical features and OLED screen make it well worth the money.

What you’ll love: It uses Sony’s XR OLED Contrast Pro technology, which analyzes and enhances the picture to optimize your viewing experience.

What you should consider: Some people disliked the remote control and thought it was confusing.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Which feather duster is best?

A classic feather duster is a cleaning implement that can effectively remove dust and debris from shelves, picture frames, rails and other surfaces. These days, there are also multipurpose dusters that can reach into tight spaces to make your home clean and tidy. If you’re looking for one that makes cleaning easy and convenient, the Swiffer Dusters Heavy Duty Extender Handle Starter Kit is a great choice.

This article was reviewed and approved by Ketia Daniel, the BestReviews Cleaning Expert.

What to know before you buy a feather duster

Uses

The main purpose of a feather duster is to remove debris, lint, dust and even pet hair from surfaces. Those made from feathers or microfiber use static electricity to attract and collect these small particles.

Most, especially those with a classic design, are soft and gentle enough to clean around fragile items, such as glassware or knickknacks. Some multipurpose ones can be used in ways traditional ones cannot, such as to clean the inside of a car or remove debris from upholstery.

Depending on the design, a feather duster can also reach between objects and deep into crevices to remove dust. One with a long or extendable handle can also help you access hard-to-reach areas, such as the blades of a ceiling fan or cobwebs in the corner.

Types

Here are the main types of feather dusters:

Classic: Perhaps the most common type, classic ones consist of real feathers — usually ostrich. They often have a nonadjustable wooden handle. Since they’re soft, they’re ideal for dusting fragile items, such as glass, antiques and artwork.
Lambswool: Wool is often found in traditional feather dusters. It is reusable and good for cleaning delicate surfaces. It’s also all-natural and long-lasting. However, it does require spot cleaning with a non-abrasive cloth and a few drops of mineral oil.
Microfiber: This gentle material is an inexpensive alternative to classic or wool options. It also easily picks up dust and allergens without scattering them. You can wash the head in a washing machine if the head detaches from the handle.
Multipurpose: The most versatile type, multipurpose dusters consist of different materials and can lift dust from nearly any surface.
Disposable: Some options, including the Swiffer duster, are disposable. These come with refill packs or duster head replacements, meaning you don’t need to clean them after use. Most have a longer handle specifically designed to reach high places.

Potential issues and maintenance

Before getting a feather duster, here are some of the most common issues with them:

Some spread dust around rather than picking it up, meaning they don’t clean as much as they should. This mainly happens when you don’t clean the duster head often enough or if there is a lot of dust or debris.
They may hold onto allergens. For people with severe dust allergies, using one can worsen the issue. Again, cleaning it regularly can prevent this problem.

With proper cleaning and maintenance, you can ensure your duster lasts a long time and cleans effectively. After every use, shake it off outside to remove some larger debris or dust particles clinging to it.

Certain materials, such as microfiber, can be washed by hand with warm tap water. After removing debris or allergens, let it air dry before using it again. Alternatively, use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove larger debris or hair. If the duster starts to lose its shape, wring it out to return it to its original shape.

What to look for in a quality feather duster

Surface area and design

Some feather dusters have more surface area than others. Those with real feathers come in lengths ranging from 14 to 32 inches. They’re also poofy at the end, which lets them pick up more dust.

Others, such as the Swiffer duster, have a cylindrical head that can collect dirt and dust on all sides. Since these dusters have more surface area, they are ideal for cleaning larger areas.

There are also smaller dusters with an average head size of about 10 inches. These are convenient for spot cleaning or reaching tight spaces, such as between books, framed photographs and similarly sized items.

Length and adjustability

Classic feather dusters usually have a simple handle that doesn’t extend or bend. Many modern ones, though, have adjustable lengths or swivel heads. This makes them ideal for cleaning around and between items without having to move them. It also makes them convenient for reaching higher areas or getting into nooks or crannies.

Some adjustable dusters can reach three feet in length with the press of a button, while others have a long handle by default.

Shelf life

When cleaned regularly, they can last for several months or years. If you get a disposable one, expect to replace the head every one to three months.

Handle

Most handles consist of either wood or plastic. Plastic is usually resistant to moisture, meaning it won’t rot or warp if exposed to water for a long time. Wood handles often have a sleek or high-quality aesthetic but can sometimes splinter.

Some handles have a nonslip or ergonomic grip. This makes them comfortable to use, especially on larger cleaning projects.

How much you can expect to spend on a feather duster

A basic, disposable feather duster can cost $5-$15. Kits, adjustable or reusable ones usually cost $15-$30.

Feather duster FAQ

What’s the best method to clean with a feather duster?

A. Pull the duster along the surface with a steady, even motion. Don’t go in circles, but do slightly overlap the previous area you’ve already cleaned. Use light pressure to avoid damaging delicate items. Start from the highest surface and go down from there.

Can you use a feather duster outside?

A. Generally, these cleaning tools are meant for indoor use only. But if you have furniture or shelving units on an enclosed patio, you can use a duster to remove light dust or debris from those.

What’s the best feather duster to buy?

Top feather duster

Swiffer Dusters Heavy Duty Extender Handle Starter Kit

What you need to know: This kit is a great choice for anyone who wants a modern cleaning implement to collect dust and small debris from nearly any surface in your home.

What you’ll love: It comes with 12 durable refills and one adjustable handle. It can easily trap dust and allergens without spreading them around. Plus, the handle extends up to 3 feet. The head is also adjustable and can be positioned to reach ceiling fan blades and other hard-to-reach surfaces.

What you should consider: It’s meant primarily for light dusting.

Top feather duster for the money

Oxo Good Grips Microfiber Delicate Duster

What you need to know: This gentle duster can easily clean around fragile objects without damaging them.

What you’ll love: This duster is 13 inches long and has a comfortable nonslip handle with a hole for hanging it when not in use. It’s made with soft microfiber and is machine-washable.

What you should consider: It’s not very large, so it’s better for smaller spaces.

Worth checking out

Unisan Handle Professional Ostrich Feather Duster

What you need to know: This classic duster is made of ostrich feathers and can easily tackle many different surfaces.

What you’ll love: The handle is 16 inches long, making it convenient for getting into corners and between objects on shelves. It is also lightweight and has a contoured wooden handle for a comfortable grip.

What you should consider: It’s not adjustable.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

Check out our Daily Deals for the best products at the best prices and sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter full of shopping inspo and sales.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links.