VCJC News & Notes 5/8/2026

 

Van Cortlandt Jewish Center

News and Notes

Here's this week's edition of the VCJC News and Notes email. We hope you enjoy it and find it useful!

Things to see below

The survey of your preferences for our events - please fill in (#3)

The links to our new social media accounts - please follow us (#6)

Our request for a Google review (#7)

Reminders

1. Shabbos schedule
   
   
   Shabbos information is, as always, available on our website, both in the information sidebar and the events calendar.
   Here are the times you need:  
   Shabbos Candles Friday 5/8/26 @ 7:41 pm
   Shabbos Ends Saturday 5/9/26 @ 8:45 pm

   If you require an aliyah or would like to lead services, read from the torah or haftorah please speak to one of the gabbaim.

   
   

   Come join us for services and stay to enjoy the kiddush and the company.

   
   

2. About our new kiddushim
   Reminder that kiddush now takes place in the ballroom. There is a greater variety of food, which can be enjoyed while seated at covered tables. Our aim is to offer a more enjoyable and meaningful experience, and to encourage conversation and interaction among attendees. This is an evolving effort. It has received very positive reviews so far; we’d love to have your opinion as well. Please join us for services and kiddush, and let us know what you think!

   
   

3. What works for you?
   Please Help Us Plan for Events
   We have created a survey, Van Cortlandt Jewish Center Community Event Planning Survey, to help us set the direction for our activities.  We’d really appreciate your taking a few minutes to fill it in. Here’s the link: SURVEY
   
   

4. The VCJC Chavurah
   The VCJC Chavurah will be meeting every Tuesday Night at 7:30PM.  All are welcome to join us as we continue to learn Tractate Berachot together.

   No cost to attend and no prior experience is needed.

   If you are interested in learning torah with a group of fellow members of your community, but want more details, contact the VCJC office at 718-884-6105 or info@vcjewishcenter.org, or speak to Stuart Harris or Matthew Hartstein after davening on Shabbat morning.
   
   

5. Shabbos parsha

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   Parashat Behar-Bechukotai 5786 / פָּרָשַׁת בְּהַר־בְּחֻקֹּתַי

   9 May 2026 / 22 Iyyar 5786

   Parashat Behar-Bechukotai is the 32nd and 33rd weekly Torah portion in the annual Jewish cycle of Torah reading.

   Torah Portion: Leviticus 25:1-27:34

   Behar (“On The Mountain”) details the laws of the sabbatical year (Shemita), when working the land is prohibited and debts are forgiven. It also sets out laws of indentured servitude and of the Jubilee year (Yovel), when property reverts to its original ownership. Bechukotai (“In My Laws”) is the final Torah portion in the Book of Leviticus. It begins describing blessings that follow obedience to God's laws and curses that come with desecration of them. It ends with laws of vows and consecration of people and property. [1]

   
   

6. VCJC is now active on social media - follow us!
   We have launched both a Facebook page and an Instagram page.  Both have a nice amount of content already and we are planning both regular posts and a greater variety going forward.  Please take a look and follow us!

   
   

   
   

7. You can do it! Give VCJC a boost!  Leave a (positive) review for us on Google
   -->You can do this!  We know you can! YES, YOU!
   The VCJC is working to build and grow for its next century in Van Cortlandt Village.  If you have had a good experience with us or recognize our value to the community, please consider telling the world about it.  Go to our Google Business Profile and leave a review.  Thanks!  
   
   

8. Ridgewood Savings Bank Spring Festival
   Thursday, May 14, from 10AM to 2PM
   3899 Sedgwick Avenue

   A day of fun, including free refreshments and lots of great giveaways!

Please help with information about buildings

As part of rebuilding the membership and congregation, the Board of Trustees would like your help. There are a lot of either new or renovated buildings being put up in our catchment area. We would like to seek the cooperation of the owners / developers of those properties in publicizing these opportunities to live near an orthodox synagogue.  If you are aware of any of these buildings, please provide what information you can about them.  This could include the address, any contact information that might be posted, and any information about the building itself (size, type, etc.). Additionally, if you are aware of vacancies in existing buildings or of houses for sale, please let us know about that as well.

Our mailing address is:
Van Cortlandt Jewish Center
3880 Sedgwick Ave
Bronx, NY 10463

Illegal Alien from Mexico Pleads Guilty for his Role in an International Conspiracy to Smuggle Aliens from Canada into the U.S.

 

An illegal alien from Mexico pleaded guilty for his role in an international human smuggling conspiracy that illegally brought aliens from Mexico and Central and South America across the northern border with Canada into the United States for profit.

According to court documents, Edgar Sanchez-Solis, 24, was a leader in an alien smuggling organization (ASO) while he was living illegally in Kansas City, Missouri. The ASO smuggled hundreds of aliens into the United States. Once the aliens were inside the U.S., the ASO employed drivers to pick them up and drive them further into the country. The defendant personally participated in and coordinated smuggling events with other leaders of the ASO. During one smuggling event in May 2023, a van carrying aliens became involved in a high-speed chase with U.S. Border Patrol. Border Patrol had to stop their pursuit due to the risk to the public. Ultimately the local sheriff’s department used a tire deflation device to stop the vehicle after it failed to yield.

Sanchez-Solis pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit alien smuggling and five counts of alien smuggling for commercial advantage and private financial gain. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 10. He faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III for the Northern District of New York, and Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Buffalo Field Office made this announcement.

HSI Rouses Point and U.S. Border Patrol (BP) Burke Station investigated the case, with substantial assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. and U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force.

Trial Attorney Spencer M. Perry of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carling Dunham for the Northern District of New York is prosecuting the case.

The investigation and indictment were supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 455 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 400 U.S. convictions; and more than 345 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood.

Attorney General James’ Office of Special Investigation Releases Report on Death of King Wong

 

New York Attorney General Letitia James’ Office of Special Investigation (OSI) released its report on the death of King Wong, who died on April 14, 2025 following an encounter with members of the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in Queens. After a thorough investigation, which included review of 911 calls, footage from body-worn cameras and a nearby security camera, interviews with involved officers, and comprehensive legal analysis, OSI concluded that a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officers’ actions were justified under New York law.

Shortly after 6:20 a.m. on April 14, three people called 911 to report that a man, later identified as Mr. Wong, was wearing a mask and vest and holding a large knife as he walked down 30th Avenue in Queens. Two NYPD officers were driving in a marked police vehicle when they saw Mr. Wong, who appeared to be talking to himself as he walked across the intersection of 30th Avenue and 31st Street while holding a knife. The officers got out of their vehicle and instructed Mr. Wong to drop the knife. Mr. Wong moved to the passenger side of the police vehicle and waved the knife at the officers while shouting at them. 

One officer fired his Taser at Mr. Wong, but the Taser had no effect. Two more officers arrived as Mr. Wong crossed the street. As the officers followed Mr. Wong on foot, they repeatedly instructed him to drop the knife. A second officer fired his Taser at Mr. Wong, again with no effect. Mr. Wong then walked quickly toward one officer with the knife in his hand. Three officers discharged their service weapons, striking Mr. Wong. Mr. Wong was transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Officers recovered a knife at the scene.

Under New York’s justification law, a police officer may use deadly physical force when the officer reasonably believes it to be necessary to defend against the use of deadly physical force by another. In this case, when officers encountered Mr. Wong, he was armed with a knife and ignored repeated commands to drop it. After officers attempted to subdue Mr. Wong with Tasers, Mr. Wong walked quickly toward an officer with the knife in his hand. Under these circumstances, given the law and the evidence, a prosecutor would not be able to disprove beyond a reasonable doubt at trial that the officers’ use of deadly physical force against Mr. Wong was justified, and therefore OSI determined that criminal charges would not be pursued in this matter

NEW YORK STATE OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES AND NEW YORK POWER AUTHORITY CELEBRATE EXPANSION OF STATE’S CLEAN FLEET AND CHARGING NETWORK DURING ANNUAL ELECTRIC VEHICLE FLEET EVENT

More Than 10 Percent of State’s Light-Duty Fleet — Over 1,850 Vehicles — Now Zero-Emission

Charging Infrastructure Surpasses 1,300 State-Owned Ports to Support Growing Zero-Emission Fleet

Annual Empire State Plaza Showcase Highlights Expansion into Electric Landscaping and Off-Road Machinery

The New York State Office of General Services (OGS) and the New York Power Authority (NYPA) announced significant progress in New York’s transition to a clean energy economy, marking a major milestone with over 1,850 zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) now deployed across the state. The announcement coincides with the fourth annual Electric Vehicle Fleet EVent, cohosted by OGS and NYPA on Thursday, May 7, at the Empire State Plaza in Albany.

Showcasing the state's ongoing commitment to sustainable operations, the event highlighted that ZEVs now make up more than 10 percent of New York State’s light-duty, non-emergency fleet, supported by a network of over 1,300 chargers on state-owned properties.

New York State Office of General Services Commissioner Jeanette Moy said, “Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State government is leading by example. Today, we have a cleaner fleet and an expanded charging network. Team OGS is proud to continue driving New York’s transition to a ZEV fleet and cohost this event every year that brings public and private sector EV stakeholders together.”

NYPA President and CEO Justin E. Driscoll said, “Electrification of the transportation industry reduces emissions, resulting in cleaner air in New York neighborhoods. To advance Governor Hochul’s directive to transition state fleets to electric vehicles, this annual EV fleet event brings together state partners, vendors, and experts to foster collaboration. NYPA is supporting state agencies and local government partners with building statewide EV charging infrastructure. Half of NYPA’s fleet vehicles are now electric, and we’re increasing our use of other electric-powered equipment for operation and maintenance of our plants and transmission system.”   

Driving the Transition: Fleet and Infrastructure Milestones

Achieving New York’s climate agenda to decarbonize our transportation sector includes a balanced focus on vehicle procurement and charging infrastructure. Over 10 percent of the state's light-duty, non-emergency fleet is now zero-emission, showing tangible progress towards the mandate to transition all state government light-duty, non-emergency vehicles to ZEVs by 2035, and all medium- and heavy-duty vehicles by 2040. Converting the state fleet not only reduces emissions but also costs, saving the state money on gas and maintenance.

To support this rapidly growing zero-emission vehicle fleet, New York has prioritized expanding its charging network. There are now more than 1,300 state-owned EV charging ports actively supporting daily operations, with an additional 550 ports in design and construction. This network is built to meet varying operational demands, featuring Level 2 chargers, DC fast chargers, and off-grid solar chargers with battery storage to ensure fleet readiness.

The 2026 EVent: Expanding the Equipment Showcase

The annual EVent provided state and local government fleet managers, sustainability coordinators, elected officials, and members of the public with a critical opportunity to learn how New York State is implementing Governor Hochul’s Executive Order 22, which directs state agencies to adopt sustainability and decarbonization programs.

Moving beyond passenger vehicles and U.S.-assembled EV charging infrastructure, this year’s event featured electric landscaping, maintenance, and off-road equipment for the first time. Electrifying this equipment is vital for reducing localized air and noise pollution for state workers and visitors at state facilities.

The EVent fostered industry collaboration and workforce development. Representatives from local dealerships and manufacturers connected directly with state vehicle purchasers, while attendees participated in forward-looking sessions on workforce training, leveraging state contracts, accessing rebates, and utilizing vehicle telematics for optimized fleet planning.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) President and CEO Doreen M. Harris said, “Reaching this milestone reflects New York’s continued leadership in advancing zero-emission transportation and building the infrastructure to support it. By working across agencies toward a shared goal, we are leading by example to reduce reliance on gasoline-powered vehicles, improve air quality, and show New Yorkers the benefits of a cleaner, more reliable transportation system.”

New York State Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “New York State is fully committed to protecting our environment and making our communities healthier by investing in clean energy resources. As we continue the transition to an all-electric fleet of vehicles, Governor Hochul is showing how the adoption of clean energy technologies can be cost-effectively deployed on a large scale.”

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “The annual Electric Vehicle Fleet EVent highlights the state’s progress in transitioning to electric vehicles while helping educate consumers and the public about reduced costs, improved health, and other benefits of driving electric rather than gas-powered vehicles. DEC is leading by example under Governor Hochul's Executive Order 22, through investing in electric vehicles and equipment as part of our state fleet and awarding millions in grants that are putting hundreds of municipal EVs and plug-in hybrids on the roads — reducing harmful emissions and improving air quality for New Yorkers."

About the New York Power Authority

NYPA is the largest state public power organization in the nation, operating 17 generating facilities and more than 1,550 circuit-miles of transmission lines. More than 80 percent of the electricity NYPA produces is clean renewable hydropower. NYPA finances its operations through the sale of bonds and revenues earned in large part through sales of electricity. For more information, visit www.nypa.gov and follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About the New York State Office of General Services 

For 65 years, the New York State Office of General Services (OGS) has proudly served as the operational engine of New York State. The agency provides the essential foundation for government to function seamlessly — managing and leasing real property, designing modern facilities, streamlining procurement, and stewarding world-class cultural assets. Through its commitment to efficiency, innovation, and environmental sustainability, OGS handles the complex logistics of government so that its partners can dedicate their full focus to what matters most: advancing their missions to serve the people of New York. Discover how OGS continues to support New York at ogs.ny.gov and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Meet One of the Media’s ‘Non-Criminals’: ICE Law Enforcement Officers in New Jersey Arrest International Fugitive Wanted for Murder in His Origin Country

Nearly 70% of ICE arrests have been of criminal illegal aliens convicted or charged of a crime in the U.S.–those who committed crimes in foreign countries are not counted in that statistic 

The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued the following statement after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) law enforcement officers in New Jersey arrested an illegal alien who is wanted for murder in Honduras.

On April 20, 2026, ICE law enforcement arrested Fredy Alexander Lopez Lara, an illegal alien from Honduras and fugitive who has an international warrant for homicide in his home country. The warrant was first issued in 2020. ICE arrested Lopez Lara near Eatontown, New Jersey during a vehicle stop.

“The brave men and women of ICE have removed another dangerous criminal from our streets. This illegal alien is wanted for murder in his home country of Honduras,” said Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis. “This is the kind of illegal alien that the mainstream media falsely describes as a ‘non-criminal’ because he lacks a criminal history in the United States. Nearly 70% of ICE arrests are of illegal aliens charged or convicted of a crime in the U.S. This statistic does not even include foreign fugitives wanted for crimes in their home country like this illegal alien.”

Lopez Lara illegally entered the United States at an unknown date and location. He will remain in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.

Man Sentenced To Eight Years For Participating In Armed Robbery That Led To Death Of Innocent Bystander

 

United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, announced that JADHIAN CORDERO was sentenced today to eight years in prison by U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff for aiding and abetting the brandishing of a firearm in connection with an August 27, 2025, midday armed robbery in which a 69-year-old bystander was shot and killed.

“Jadhian Cordero chose to participate in the armed robbery of a drug dealer in the middle of the day on the street in East Harlem, which led to the death of Robin Wright, a 69-year-old, wholly innocent woman,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton.  “New York City families deserve to live free of senseless and destructive violence on our streets.  Today’s sentence demonstrates that the women and men of this Office are dedicated to holding all participants in violent gun crimes accountable.”

As alleged in public court filings, statements in public court proceedings, and the charging documents in the case:

On August 27, 2025, shortly before 12:30 p.m., CORDERO and two co-conspirators (“CC-1” and “CC-2”) robbed a drug dealer (“Individual-1”) near East 109th Street and Madison Avenue in Manhattan.  During the robbery, CORDERO and his co-conspirators got into a physical altercation with Individual-1 before grabbing backpacks from Individual-1—which contained marijuana—and fleeing north on Madison Avenue.

CC-1 pulled a black firearm—equipped with a machine-gun conversion device—out of his right sweatshirt pocket and discharged 15 shots in quick succession in the general direction of Individual-1.  A 69-year-old woman, Robin Wright, was standing with a walker on the northwest corner of East 110th Street and Madison Avenue—in the direction that CC-1 shot the firearm—when she was struck by gunfire.  The victim was transported to the hospital, where she died.

Multiple members of the victim’s family submitted letters to the Court describing the victim as a loving parent and grandmother who was simply enjoying her afternoon when she fell victim to this senseless crime.

In addition to the prison term, CORDERO, 19, of New York, New York, was sentenced to five years of supervised release.

Mr. Clayton praised the outstanding investigative work of Homeland Security Investigations and the New York City Police Department. He also thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, and the New York State Board of Parole.

This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent Organizations and Crime Unit. 

Brooklyn Clothing Company Pays $3 Million to Settle Claims That it Defrauded Federal Covid Loan Program

 

Government Alleged that Lafayette 148, Inc. Obtained a $2 Million Paycheck Protection Program Loan by Falsely Claiming That It Had Fewer Than 300 Employees and Complied with Requirements Concerning China Operations

Joseph Nocella, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, announced a settlement agreement with Brooklyn-based clothing company Lafayette 148, Inc. (Lafayette). The settlement addresses allegations that Lafayette violated the federal False Claims Act (FCA) by falsely certifying that it was eligible for a pandemic-era second-draw Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan and obtaining forgiveness of that loan. 

“Congress created the Paycheck Protection Program to help eligible small businesses survive the severe disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic by offering loans that could be forgiven if program rules were followed,” stated United States Attorney Nocella. “Unfortunately, Lafayette applied for and took government money to which they were not entitled.  Our Office will continue to investigate and hold companies accountable who took advantage of pandemic relief programs.” 

Mr. Nocella thanked the Small Business Administration (SBA) for its partnership in the investigation. 

“SBA is committed to identifying and pursuing those alleged to have perpetrated fraud on COVID Relief Programs to the detriment of small businesses. By working closely with the US Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of New York and our other law enforcement partners, SBA continues its enhanced efforts to uncover fraud and pursue recoveries on behalf of taxpayers,” stated SBA General Counsel Wendell Davis.

On March 27, 2020, the President signed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) to provide emergency assistance for individuals, families, and businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.  The CARES Act authorized the Paycheck Protection Program, administered by the SBA, to provide forgivable loans to eligible small businesses during the national emergency.  The PPP provided loans in two draws. For second-draw PPP loans, among other requirements, an applicant could not employ more than 300 employees.

The United States Attorney’s Office commenced an investigation after whistleblowers alleged that Lafayette had knowingly defrauded the federal government by obtaining a $2 million PPP loan and forgiveness of that loan when it was not eligible.  Based in  Brooklyn, Lafayette has a workshop and production facility in China.  The government contended that Lafayette was ineligible for a second-draw PPP loan because its certifications about the number of its employees and its operations associated with China were false. 

Under the terms of the agreement with the United States, Lafayette agreed to pay $3 million to the United States.  The claims asserted against the defendant are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. 

The civil settlement resolves a case brought under the qui tam provisions of the FCA. The FCA authorizes private parties to sue on behalf of the United States and receive a share of any recovery.  It also permits the United States to intervene and take over such lawsuits, as it did here. The relator will receive a 10% share of the government’s recovery in this matter.

DEC LAUNCHES I BIRD NY LIBRARY LENDING PROGRAM

 

New Program Provides Birding Equipment Accessible to Birders of All Experience Levels Across New York State

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced the launch of the I BIRD NY Library Lending Program. The program will expand access to free birding equipment by offering backpacks with binoculars and reference materials about birding in New York to libraries across the State, helping make this enjoyable activity even more fun and affordable.  

“Birding is an exceptional and affordable activity for all ages to connect with nature and learn more about the wildlife in our State,” said Commissioner Amanda Lefton. “The I BIRD NY Library Lending Program is reducing barriers to participating in birding, encouraging more New Yorkers to Get Offline and Get Outside.” 

Included in the library lending kits are two backpacks for patrons. Each backpack contains one pair of binoculars and a folder with birding information and resources, including an I BIRD NY Pocket Guide to NYS Birds, a binoculars tip strip, a Beginner’s Guide to Birding booklet, and additional materials to help people get started with birding. DEC will also provide libraries with electronic versions of the materials, including translations in additional languages, to help ensure the resources are readily accessible for patrons.  

Today’ announcement was held at the Frederick Douglass Community Library in Rochester — the first location to offer the binocular backpacks — in advance of World Migratory Bird Day on Saturday, May 9.

DEC will actively recruit libraries to participate and offer birding backpacks at locations statewide. There are up to 100 backpacks and materials available, so interested libraries are encouraged to contact DEC’s Office of Outdoor Recreation to inquire about participating in the program as soon as possible. DEC will be reviewing inquiries to ensure participation across the State, with priority given to libraries located in disadvantaged communities.

To learn more about the I BIRD NY Library Lending Program, visit www.ibirdny.org to learn more, view a complete list of included materials, and coming soon—locations that offer the program. Interested libraries should contact DEC’s Office of Outdoor Recreation at birdtrail@dec.ny.gov or (518) 402-3730.  

DEC launched the I BIRD NY initiative in 2017 to build on the State's efforts to increase access to New York's vast natural resources and promote no- and low-cost opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors and connect with nature. Through I BIRD NY, DEC is making it easier for New Yorkers to get started in birding by compiling tips, resources, and events.   

The new lending program is modeled after DEC’s popular I FISH NY Fishing Rod Lending Program, which is currently supported by 89 libraries across the state. It also complements Governor Kathy Hochul’s “These Lands Are For Everyone” accessibility and inclusivity initiative announced in the 2026 State of the State. To ensure New York’s open spaces are accessible and inclusive, “These Lands Are For Everyone” is investing in inclusive, sensory friendly and accessible experiences, including tactile exhibits, sensory trails and inclusive nature centers, ensuring all children and adults can enjoy New York’s natural treasures. The “I BIRD NY” logo is a trademark owned by and approved for use courtesy of the New York State Department of Economic Development. 

City of Rochester Mayor Malik Evans said, “The I Bird NY Library Lending Program perfectly complements the incredible progress we’re making to create new opportunities for children and families to connect with nature, including the expansion of environmental programming in the City’s R-Centers, opening the Maplewood Nature Center and the adoption of the Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights. I want to commend Governor Kathy Hochul and DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton for developing this program. It is extremely gratifying to see that our partners in State government share our vision to help young people spend more time playing and learning outside.”  

New York State Librarian Lauren Moore said, “New York State’s libraries serve as vibrant centers for learning, exploration, and discovery, and this initiative fully reflects that mission. The I Bird NY Library Lending Program is incredibly valuable, as it will not only allow New Yorkers to access birding materials they may otherwise not be able to, but also encourage patrons to try a new hobby, spend time outside, and experience nature in new ways. I commend DEC for their ongoing commitment to providing New Yorkers with resources that allow them to enjoy all that our state has to offer. Libraries are the perfect partner for this work.”  

Rochester Public Library and Monroe County Library System Director Emily Clasper said, “The addition of these birding backpacks to the library collection is a wonderful example of how libraries provide not just books, but hands-on opportunities for learning, exploration, and connection with the world around us. By removing cost barriers and making equipment readily available, we’re helping ensure that more people can discover the joy of nature and deepen their relationship with the environment regardless of their experience or background.”

The Spark Bird Project Director Jenn Lodi-Smith, PhD, said, “Access to resources like these are one of the primary ways folks fall in love with birds sparking their journey in conservation and wellness.”

Genesee Valley Audubon Society President June Summers said, “We are happy to hear that the DEC is making birding more accessible to everyone by making these backpacks available in libraries.”