Dumbo's biggest landlord David Walentas charges some artists below-market rates to rent space in his less luxe properties. In this New York Times article, Mr. Walentas applauds both his generosity and good business sense, since artists, like "good architecture," add value to a neighborhood. [NY Times]

After months of controversy over whether Forest City Ratner has secured public funding for its Atlantic Yards project, the city finally confirmed that it has distributed $55 million to the company. [Crain's]

Sheldon Solow is courting the UN to be the anchor tenant of a controversial office tower in his seven-building East River complex. The office building is rumored to be the main obstacle to Mr. Solow getting approval from the City Council to go foward with the project. [City Room]

Brooklyn College in Midwood is adding its first dormitory to woo out-of-staters to the outer boroughs. [Gothamist]

Manhattan might not have many strip clubs left, but there are still plenty of naked bodies on public display. Here is a list of the best nude sculptures in the city, fig leaves not included. [Time Out NY via Gridskipper]

Rumors are circulating that the Midtown bistro Le Madeleine is finally being kicked to the curb after loosing a knock-down-drag-out lawsuit with the building landlord. [Eater]