Feb. 15: Wind-stoked Fire Injures 12 Of New York's 'Bravest'

Good morning, Little Neck. Residents across the city are wishing a speedy recovery for a dozen firefighters injured in this Laurelton blaze that quickly spread to five homes during yesterday's windstorm. Nine residents were also injured in the fire.

Closer to home, winds up to 40 mph tossed about unsecured garbage cans, ushering in colder air with temps expected to hover around freezing today. Though later this week expect the mercury to make a rebound, with temps flirting with the 60-degree mark on Friday.

1. The Queens DA announced that Carlos Salazar Cruz pleaded guilty to a May 16, 2010 pipe attack on a woman walking home from a grocery store in Flushing. He's expected to get up to 22 years in prison.

2. Fresh off the success of his latest novel, Freedom, bestselling author Jonathan Frazen will be the guest of honor at Queens College's later today.

3. Lonnie Rashid Lynn, Jr., better known by his stage name, Common, will give a at Nassau Community College entitled, "Common Sense, Common Knowledge."

4. For those looking to challenge their city property tax assessments, particularly in light of reports of , a reminder: the deadline for filing an appeal with the city Department of Finance is March 1. 

5. NYCASP rules are in effect today.