N.Y. Today: Columbia Punishes 2 Who Helped Epstein’s Girlfriend Enter Dental College

February 17, 2026

A man in a hoodie drives a vehicle past a green pasture.

Justice Department

Columbia Punishes 2 Who Helped Epstein’s Girlfriend Enter Dental College

The release of documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein has sent ripples through the worlds of business, politics and academia, including at Columbia, where he helped his girlfriend gain entry.

By Ed Shanahan

Water splashes around Ezaiah as he swims freestyle in the pool.

New York Needs Lifeguards. Would These Teens Make the Cut?

To qualify for a job patrolling the city’s beaches and pools, candidates must swim 50 yards in 50 seconds or less.

By Yuvraj Khanna for The New York Times

A young woman with wavy brown hair and a lacy red top is pinned to a bright pink wrestling mat by a young man in a green sweatshirt.

A Singles Mixer Where You Can Body-Slam Your Crush

At a wrestling speed dating event in Brooklyn, young people spent Valentine’s Day getting physical with strangers in hopes of finding love.

By Callie Holtermann

Abe Lincoln Fans Gather for Mutton Hunks and a Vintage American Flag

An old Manhattan steakhouse is the new home for the Stars and Stripes that draped the 16th president’s casket.

By Alex Vadukul and Graham Dickie

Two Icons of New York, Ready for Broadway’s ‘Jellicle Ball’

Fifty years ago, Junior LaBeija couldn’t afford to see André De Shields in “The Wiz.” Now, they’re starring together in a reimagining of “Cats.”

By Elisabeth Vincentelli and Marcus Maddox

A smiling man in a suit and tie sits in front of a microphone at a radio station in this black and white photo.

Richard Ottinger, 97, Dies; Fought for the Environment in Congress

A New York Democrat, he spent 16 years in the House over two stretches, beginning in 1965, championing the health of the Hudson River and opposing the Vietnam War.

By Joseph P. Fried and Trip Gabriel

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