Tony Salimbene Says he Voted for Matt Cruz for District Manager of Bronx Community Board 10 - The Minutes I Received From Community Board 10 Say He Was Absent the Night of the Vote

 

Let's look at the history of a comment by Tony Salimbene today about voting for Matt Cruz for District Manager of Bronx Community Board 10. 

Mr. Tony Salimbene was absent from the meeting Where the vote was taken according to the minutes of the April 27, 2017 CB 10 meeting where the vote for new District Manager Matt Cruz (the only choice) was taken, and it was taken in Executive Session according to the minutes. 

Edit History

Tony Salimbene

I am a member of BCB 10 and I voted for Matthew Cruz because he was the best choice based on his experience in Councilman Vacca Office and also who in the Complaint Department of NYC - Agencies etc..... I never regretted voting for him and he was the best choice we were offered...

Today at 4:09 PM

Tony Salimbene

I am a member of BCB 10 and I voted for Matthew Cruz because he was the best choice based on his Educationm Experience in Councilman Vacca Office, and also working in other NYC - Agencies etc..... I never regretted voting for him and he was the best choice we were offered... Matthew Cruz is an excellent problem solver...

Today at 4:12 PM

Tony Salimbene

I am a member of BCB 10 and I voted for Matthew Cruz because he was the best choice based on his Educationm Experience in Councilman Vacca Office, and also working in other NYC - Agencies etc..... I never regretted voting for him and he was the best choice we were offered... Matthew Cruz is an excellent problem solver and get issued resolved very quickly too !!

Today at 4:13 PM

According to the New York City Charter Section 2800 Community Boards, Article D, Item #3

(3) At its discretion hold public or private hearings or investigations with respect to any matter relating to the welfare of the district and its residents, but the board shall take action only at a meeting open to the public;

New York State Open Meetings Law Article 7 Section 105

§105. Conduct of executive sessions. 1. Upon a majority vote of its total membership, taken in an open meeting pursuant to a motion identifying the general area or areas of the subject or subjects to be considered, a public body may conduct an executive session for the below enumerated purposes only, provided, however, that no action by formal vote shall be taken to appropriate public moneys:

a. matters which will imperil the public safety if disclosed; b. any matter which may disclose the identity of a law enforcement agent or informer; c. information relating to current or future investigation or prosecution of a criminal offense which would imperil effective law enforcement if disclosed; d. discussions regarding proposed, pending or current litigation; e. collective negotiations pursuant to article fourteen of the civil service law; f. the medical, financial, credit or employment history of a particular person or corporation, or matters leading to the appointment, employment, promotion, demotion, discipline, suspension, dismissal or removal of a particular person or corporation; g. the preparation, grading or administration of examinations; and h. the proposed acquisition, sale or lease of real property or the proposed acquisition of securities, or sale or exchange of securities held by such public body, but only when publicity would substantially affect the value thereof.

218 Days and Counting - Go Brooklyn

 

Game 4 of the series between the Brooklyn Nets and Boston Celtics is tomorrow night. It's a good thing I'm a Boston Red Sox fan, and not a Celtics fan, because I could never wear this Brooklyn Nets shirt. However because I am a Boston Red Sox fan, I can never wear a New York Yankee shirt. 

Governor Cuomo Announces State Police, Local Law Enforcement to Crack Down on Impaired and Reckless Driving This Memorial Day Weekend

 

Enforcement Campaign to Run Through June 1

More Than 8,000 Vehicle and Traffic Law Violation Tickets Issued During Last Year's Initiative

  Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York State Police and local law enforcement statewide will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired, and reckless driving throughout Memorial Day weekend. The enforcement period starts on Friday, May 28 and runs through Tuesday, June 1. Memorial Day is one of the busiest travel holidays of the year and police will be out in force to remove impaired and reckless drivers from our highways.

"This Memorial Day weekend, please honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to guarantee our freedom by making smart, safe choices on our roads and highways," Governor Cuomo said. "Impaired driving is reckless, dangerous and puts lives at risk. Please act responsibly and don't get behind the wheel if you've been drinking." 

Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols by State Police and local law enforcement agencies during this holiday weekend. Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement vehicles as part of this crackdown in order to more easily identify motorists who are violating the law. CITE vehicles allow the Trooper to better observe driving violations. These vehicles blend in with everyday traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

State Police Acting Superintendent Kevin P. Bruen said, "State Troopers and our local law enforcement partners will be highly visible this weekend, targeting impaired and reckless drivers. If your weekend plans include alcohol, assign a designated driver, or make other plans for a safe ride home. We will have zero tolerance for those who endanger the lives of others."

Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and Chair of the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee, said, "As the state begins to reopen, we are all eager to get back on the road and visit family and friends and to take vacations. Driving recklessly or under the influence of drugs or alcohol is no way to honor the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we can enjoy those freedoms and spend time with our loved ones. Out of respect for their sacrifice and for the safety of everyone on the roads, we are urging everyone to be responsible and drive sober."

This initiative is partially funded by the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee. The GTSC and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation remind motorists that their "Have a Plan" mobile app, is available for Apple, Droid and Windows smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and a way to even report a suspected impaired driver.

According to the Institute for Traffic Safety Management and Research at the University at Albany, 251 people were killed and 5,151 were injured in drunk driving related crashes in 2019. Another 258 people were killed in drug-related crashes.

On Memorial Day weekend in 2020, Troopers arrested 203 people for driving while impaired, issued 8,907 total tickets, and investigated 457 crashes, which resulted in two fatalities.  In addition to the New York State Police, numerous counties and agencies throughout the state also participated in last year's Memorial Day Crackdown.

Construction Company President Charged With Defrauding The State Department In Multimillion-Dollar Fraud Schemes

 

Sina Moayedi Allegedly Paid Lucrative Bribes to State Department Insider in Exchange for Confidential Bidding Information, and Fraudulently Induced State Department to Pay His Company Approximately $100 Million

 Audrey Strauss, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Michael Speckhardt, the Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State, Office of Inspector General, announced the arrest today of SINA MOAYEDI, the owner of a construction company, on charges including bribery and fraud.  MOAYEDI was arrested in Castleton, Virginia, and will be presented later today in the Western District of Virginia before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joel C. Hoppe. 

Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “As alleged, Sina Moayedi made misrepresentations about his employees’ qualifications and his company’s ownership in order to induce the State Department into awarding approximately $100 million in lucrative construction contracts to Moayedi’s company, Montage, Inc.  Moayedi also allegedly cultivated a State Department insider, and paid the insider lucrative bribes in exchange for confidential State Department bidding information.  Moayedi must now be held accountable for his alleged brazen fraud on the government.”

Special Agent in Charge Michael Speckhardt said:  “As alleged, the defendant’s scheme to undermine the Department’s procurement process for personal gain caught up with him today and he will now be held accountable.  His alleged actions not only hurt other legitimate businesses competing for awards, but also damage the public’s trust in the effective and efficient utilization of taxpayer money.”

According to allegations in the Complaint[1]:

Montage, Inc. (“Montage”) is a U.S.-based business that is primarily involved in worldwide Government construction projects, including embassies, military posts, consulates, and similar overseas properties owned and operated by the United States Government.  Montage has performed over $220 million in contracting work for the U.S. Government, including for the Department of Defense, the Department of Justice/Federal Bureau of Investigation, the State Department, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Agriculture, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (“NASA”), the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”), and the Department of Veterans Affairs.  Since 2014, Montage appears to have focused primarily on competing for and obtaining contracts with the State Department.  During that period, the State Department has awarded Montage approximately six overseas U.S. Embassy/Consulate construction project contracts totaling $100 million, in locales such as Ecuador, Spain, Sudan, the Czech Republic, and Bermuda.  The founder of Montage is SINA MOAYEDI.

Montage engaged in at least two fraud schemes.  The first scheme alleges that, from approximately 2014 to September 2020, MOAYEDI and Montage lied that it was a female-owned business in order to secure unmerited advantages in the bidding process.  By way of context, it is advantageous to a company, when bidding for federal government contracts, to be majority-owned by an individual from a socially or economically disadvantaged community.  In fact, certain contracts (or portions of contracts) are “set aside” for – i.e., only available to – such companies.  MOAYEDI and Montage repeatedly represented falsely in submissions to the State Department that Montage was female-owned, or female-owned and minority-owned, in order falsely to induce the State Department to award Montage lucrative construction contracts.  In actuality, MOAYEDI repeatedly lied about Montage being a female-owned business, and indeed, MOAYEDI controls Montage and makes all material decisions on Montage’s behalf.  As MOAYEDI revealed to a bank that inquired about Montage’s ownership status, “I am the sole owner and president of Montage and have always been.”  Montage and MOAYEDI also repeatedly misrepresented, and significantly overstated, the qualifications of Montage employees.  MOAYEDI made these misrepresentations in order to, among other things, meet State Department and contractual requirements for minimum experience in certain key positions.

The second scheme charged in the Complaint is a bribery scheme during at least 2016 and 2017.  Insider-1 is employed in the State Department’s Overseas Building Operations (“OBO”), which, according to OBO’s website, “directs the worldwide overseas building program for the Department of State and the U.S. Government community serving abroad.”  Specifically, Insider-1 works for the State Department’s OBO Project Development and Coordination Division, European division.  In connection with overseas construction projects, the State Department has a Technical Evaluation Panel (TEP) that considers all aspects of an offeror’s plan to execute the project.  The TEP has the power to disqualify an offeror.  Insider-1 oversaw the TEP for the Hamilton, Bermuda, project – a project that was awarded to Montage.  In at least 2016 and 2017, MOAYEDI paid cash bribes to Insider-1 in exchange for confidential State Department bidding information relating to a particular multimillion-dollar contract in Bermuda, for which Montage was then bidding.  In connection with the bidding process for the Bermuda project, Insider-1 informed MOAYEDI, in sum and substance, that:  His bid was low; Montage could raise its bid by $300,000 and would still be the low bidder; and he should kick back 20 percent, or $60,000, to Insider-1 in return for this information.  Shortly thereafter, Montage increased its bid by nearly $1 million.  In a letter accompanying the revised bid, MOAYEDI falsely represented to the State Department that Montage’s revised bid was attributable to “an arithmetic error in our estimate worksheets.”  MOAYEDI then paid Insider-1 $60,000 in cash, in three separate payments, using two men as intermediaries.

MOAYEDI, 66, of Chevy Chase, Maryland, is charged with one count of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, each of which carries a maximum potential prison sentence of 20 years, and one count of bribery of a public official, which carries a maximum potential prison sentence of 15 years.  

The maximum potential penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only; any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the State Department, Office of Inspector General, Special Agents from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York, and the Internal Revenue Service.  She also thanked Special Agents from the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Montgomery County, Maryland, Police Department.

 [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

Attorney General James Continues to Modernize and Streamline Investment Adviser and Securities Filings in New York State

 

New Rules and Guidance Add Transparency and Protection for Industry and Investors

  New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced additional guidance further elaborating on recent rule amendments prepared by the Investor Protection Bureau (IPB) and adopted in 2020. Through these new rules, the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) has increased transparency for the public into the investment adviser representatives and securities issuers operating in New York state. 

“These new rules are propelling this office’s investment registration functions into the 21^st century and helping to level the playing field,” said Attorney General James. “By moving to standardized electronic filings and payments, our systems are now providing enhanced transparency to New Yorkers when it comes to their investments. Every one of these improvements will assist my office in its ongoing battle to keep New Yorkers, and their nest eggs, safe.”

The OAG has created a number of resources to assist potential filers, including the following:

Securities Issuers Using the NASAA Electronic Filing Depository (EFD):

• Broker-Dealer and Securities Registration Information Sheet
• Part 10 – EFD Form D Guidance
• Frequently Asked Questions (Updated)
  
  

Investment Adviser Representatives:

• Part 11 – IAR Registration Guidance
• Part 11 – 13 NYCRR 11.18 Guidance (New)
• Part 11 – Examination Requirements and Waivers for IARs under 13 NYCRR 11.6 and 11.7 Guidance (New)
• Frequently Asked Questions (Updated)
  
  

Additional information, including the adopted rules, is available on the IPB’s Rule Change page.

The IPB has also recently begun accepting — on a voluntary basis — online payments for filings currently submitted on paper, in addition to paper checks that will continue to be accepted. The IPB ePayment system link and the user guide can be found on the IPB’s main webpage. 

Investment adviser representatives should expect delays in processing of applications during the implementation period through December 2, 2021. Interested parties should periodically check the IPB Rule Change page for updated information regarding the new rules.

Governor Cuomo Announces Nearly 65 Percent of New Yorkers Aged 18 and Older Have Taken at Least One COVID-19 Vaccine Dose

 

20% of New Yorkers Ages 12 to 15 Have Received at Least One Dose since Becoming Eligible Earlier This Month

99,770 Doses Administered in the Last 24 Hours

645,333 Doses Administered Over Past Seven Days

Vaccine Dashboard Updated Daily on the State's Vaccine Program Here

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that nearly 65 percent of New Yorkers aged 18 and older have taken at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose. 20 percent of New Yorkers ages 12 to 15 have received at least one dose since becoming eligible earlier this month. 99,770 doses have been administered across the state's vast distribution network in the last 24 hours, and 645,333 doses have been administered statewide over the past seven days.

"We're working hard to make sure every New Yorker is able to access the COVID-19 vaccine as conveniently as possible so that we can reopen our society and defeat the virus for good. Our state has made huge progress on the numbers in recent months and nearly 65 percent of New Yorkers 18 and older have taken at least one dose, but vaccination is the key to moving into the new normal and we need anyone who has not yet taken the vaccine to do so," Governor Cuomo said. "We continue to offer incentives — including a full scholarship to a SUNY or CUNY college and a $5 million lottery — and establish pop-up sites at locations like state parks and transportation station stops. New York is getting creative to put shots in arms, and we'll continue that effort full steam ahead until we're able to beat back COVID and move into the future."

All New York State mass vaccination sites are now open to eligible New Yorkers for walk-in vaccination on a first come first serve basis. The walk-in appointments are reserved for first doses only with second doses to be scheduled automatically after administration of the initial shot. In addition, all vaccine providers are encouraged to allow walk-in appointments for eligible New Yorkers. People who would prefer to schedule an appointment at a state-run mass vaccination site can do so on the Am I Eligible App or by calling 1-833-NYS-4-VAX. People may also contact their local health department, pharmacy, doctor or hospital to schedule appointments where vaccines are available, or visit vaccines.gov to find information on vaccine appointments near them.                                            

STATEWIDE BREAKDOWN

Total doses administered - 18,815,739

Total doses administered over past 24 hours - 99,770

Total doses administered over past 7 days - 645,333

Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose - 64.7%

Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series - 56.1%

Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose - 53.0%

Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series - 45.1%

Comptroller Stringer Calls On NYCHA to Create ‘Shared Delivery Center’ Pilot Program to Combat Hunger and Expand Access to Healthy, Affordable Groceries

 

Calls on NYCHA to create pilot program for Shared Grocery Delivery Centers that would allow residents to pool food deliveries from online retailers without paying onerous delivery fees

Program would expand access to healthy and affordable grocery options for NYCHA residents, increase convenience for seniors, those with limited mobility, and those who work long hours, create the opportunity to use SNAP benefits from home, and reduce delivery trucks idling and traffic congestion near NYCHA developments

Builds on Comptroller Stringer’s February 2020 food security plan to combat hunger in New York City, including a $25 million City-based emergency food program to serve undocumented New Yorkers excluded from federal and state safety net programs, expanded SNAP outreach and purchasing power, and increased halal and kosher food options

 New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer called on the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) to pilot an innovative Shared Grocery Delivery Centers program that would allow residents to accept food deliveries from online retailers at a central location within NYCHA developments without steep minimums and delivery fees. In a letter to NYCHA Chair and CEO Greg Russ, Comptroller Stringer underscored how the nation’s largest public housing agency has an obligation to combat the food insecurity crisis impacting low income communities of color in New York City. Comptroller Stringer’s proposal for Shared Delivery Centers would expand access to healthy and affordable grocery options for NYCHA residents in food deserts, increase convenience for residents who will be able to receive groceries even if they are away, expand SNAP purchasing power, and reduce delivery truck idling and traffic congestion near NYCHA developments.

“The COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis have left families in NYCHA especially vulnerable to malnutrition and hunger,” said Comptroller Stringer. “Online food retailers can be a lifeline for NYCHA residents facing food insecurity — but the steep minimums and delivery charges are out of reach for so many families trying to ends meet. My proposal for a ‘shared delivery center’ program would allow NYCHA residents to combine their purchasing power so that more of their hard-earned money is spent on food, not fees — and create access to nutritious groceries not available in so many of the city’s food deserts. There is no reason that a single New Yorker should go hungry in our city, and I urge NYCHA to swiftly get to work to implement this program and help tenants put healthy food on the table.”

Comptroller Stringer’s letter recommended the following steps NYCHA could take to implement this pilot program:

• Identify a NYCHA development with appropriate community space that already has cold storage or has the capacity to accommodate a large fridge and freezer. This space will serve as the “Shared Grocery Delivery Center” and supports NYCHA’s aim of maximizing uses in ground floor community space which may have vacancy rates in excess of 20 percent.
• Establish a partnership with a retailer or retailers that will waive delivery fees and minimum order requirements for residents of the development in exchange for use of a single grocery drop-off location and the possibility of an expanded customer base. Online retailers that accept SNAP should be prioritized when selecting a partner.
• Allocate staff or volunteer resources to accept groceries in the community space on behalf of residents and ensure their security until they are picked up.
• Promote the program within the development so residents are aware of the opportunity.

Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America said: “We have long championed the idea of food delivery hubs at public housing developments. Such hubs would be a win-win, making it easier and cheaper for companies to deliver food and making it more convenient for community members — most of whom are working — to pick it up at a time that works best for them. The end goal is to make healthier food cheaper and more convenient for struggling New Yorkers. We hope that NYCHA adopts this recommendation quickly.”

Patricia Burns, Lehman Houses Tenant Association President said: “For too long we’ve seen our residents struggle with getting affordable, nutritious groceries for their families, and that was before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Comptroller Stringer’s plan to create shared delivery centers is an innovative and cost-effective solution that we urge NYCHA to start implementing today.”

Tyrone Ball, President of St. Nicholas Houses Tenant Association said: “NYCHA residents and working families shouldn’t have to waste their hard-earned dollars on excessive grocery delivery fees. Comptroller Stringer’s proposal to establish shared delivery sites in NYCHA housing would allow residents to take advantage of all the convenience that online grocery delivery has to offer at a much more affordable price while expanding SNAP benefits and reducing truck idling and traffic around NYCHA developments.”

Leona Shoemaker, President of King Towers Tenant Association said: “As our city begins to recover from COVID-19, NYCHA residents and lower-income communities of color who were hit hardest by the pandemic are still grappling with economic hardship and food insecurity. This proposal is an example of how we can make an equitable recovery and a smart solution for making sure all New Yorkers have access to necessities like healthy and affordable groceries. Thank you to Comptroller Stringer for speaking up on behalf of NYCHA residents and lifting up underserved communities.”

Luis Torres, President of Clinton Houses Tenant Association said: “Hardworking families and homebound senior citizens in NYCHA housing have much to gain from Comptroller Stringer’s proposal, including increased affordability and options for healthy food, expanded SNAP access, and the ability to receive deliveries while working long hours. We proudly stand with Comptroller Stringer in calling on NYCHA to start creating shared delivery centers immediately and help our residents put high-quality meals on the table.”

In February 2020, Comptroller Stringer released a comprehensive food security plan to combat hunger in New York City and reach any New Yorker in need regardless of immigration status. Comptroller Stringer called for the City to create a $25 million emergency food program to serve undocumented New Yorkers left out of federal and state safety net programs, expand SNAP outreach and purchasing power, and increase cultural competence, including expanded kosher and halal options, in the City’s current food programming to ensure that New Yorkers of all backgrounds are able to access benefits. In April 2020, Comptroller Stringer, in partnership with Islamic Relief USA, local elected officials, Muslim community leaders and hunger relief organizations, announced ‘Iftar on the Go’ — a five-borough food distribution plan to expand access to free, halal meals and conduct SNAP outreach in multiple languages for New Yorkers during Ramadan.

THE MAYOR’S FUND TO ADVANCE NEW YORK CITY AND NYC SERVICE ANNOUNCE 2021 LOVE YOUR BLOCK GRANT RECIPIENTS

 

13 resident-led groups across New York City have been awarded the “Love Your Block” grant of $1,000 to revitalize a public space in their neighborhood

 The Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City and NYC Service have launched the 2021 Love Your Block initiative, awarding 13 resident-led groups from across the city with a $1,000 grant to help beautify their block and engage neighborhood volunteers to bring about local change.

In its 12^th year, the Love Your Block initiative continues to champion civic engagement by empowering communities to take pride and ownership of their communities. For over a decade, this initiative has awarded 390 grantees, engaged more than 10,500 volunteers and has leveraged a total of $390,000 dollars to revitalize 20 miles of public space in all five boroughs to date. All Love Your Block grantees receive the support of community volunteers and services from City agency partners including: New York City Department of Environmental Protection, New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, The City of New York Department of Sanitation, and New York City Department of Transportation. 

“The City is proud to invest in 13 resident-led community groups through the Love Your Block initiative,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Our community leaders are the resident experts of their neighborhoods, and I look forward to celebrating how they bring forth their unique visions of beautifying public, shared spaces for the benefit of their neighbors and our city.”

 

“Over the last 12 years, Love Your Block continues to be a connector between resident-led groups and our City – supporting people power to address the needs they see street by street, block by block,” said Acting NYC Chief Service Officer Laura Rog. “Resident engagement is critical to our neighborhoods, uniting and empowering residents to make communities and our City thrive.”

“When city residents feel empowered to improve their own neighborhoods and take pride in where they live, it not only benefits the entire community, it improves quality of life for all New Yorkers,” said Daniele Baierlein and Jorge Luis Paniagua Valle, Co-Executive Directors of the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City. “By investing in our city and our neighbors, New Yorkers will, in turn, invest in a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come, one block at a time.” 

The Love Your Block initiative will help build on New York City’s recovery process by delivering tangible results to communities who need it most. This grant funding will go towards educating New York City residents on the tools and City agency services available to them, that when taken advantage of, can increase quality of life through improved public and community spaces. In an effort to combat the crippling effects of the COVID-19 global pandemic, the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City and NYC Service sought to reach more residents and covering more miles in hardest-hit COVID-19 neighborhoods. 

The 2021 Love Your Block grantees include: 

Brooklyn

• Str8OuttaBklyn, Ocean Hill
• Southside Homeowners Association, South Williamsburg
• Flatbush Cleanup, Flatbush
• Crown Street Block Association, Crown Heights
• Lincoln Road R & B Block Association, Prospect Lefferts Gardens
• 300 Halsey Street Block Association, Bedford-Stuyvesant
• 400 Bainbridge Street Block Association, Bedford Stuyvesant

 

Queens

• Proud Astorian, Astoria
• Seagirt Avenue & Friends Block Association, Far Rockaway
• Maspeth Making a Difference, Maspeth
• Gateway Bike & Boathouse, Rockaway

Bronx

• The Neighborhood Advisory Community Garden, Melrose 

Manhattan

• Central Park North Block Association, Harlem

 “The Love Your Block grant is one of many ways New York City supports residents who want to help keep their neighborhoods clean, and DSNY is pleased to supply the awardees with the tools they need. We join the Mayor’s Fund and NYC Service in congratulating all of the recipients,” said New York Sanitation Department Commissioner Edward Grayson.

 

“One major lesson of the last difficult year of COVID is how precious we have all found our shared outdoor open spaces, including the streets themselves,” said DOT Commissioner Hank Gutman. “The Love Your Block initiative predates Open Streets and all the other programs we have created to safely address the pandemic – but it has the same wonderful spirit.  Love Your Block recognizes that we New Yorkers are at our best when we can be outdoors -- sharing experiences with family, friends and neighbors. We heartily congratulate all this year’s grantees for their dedication and commitment to a more unified and beautiful.”

 

“As the steward of more than 30,000 acres of public land, NYC Parks relies greatly on the contributions of volunteers – especially throughout the pandemic,” said NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP. “The Love Your Block initiative inspires New Yorkers to lend a helping hand to care for their neighborhood’s shared spaces, making them beautiful and welcoming to all. Special thanks to the Mayor's Fund and NYC Service for their continued partnership and for providing residents with valuable resources that keep our city green.”

 

“As all New Yorkers endeavor to become better stewards of our shared environment it is encouraging to see so many groups across the five boroughs taking action to improve their communities and the health of our planet,” said DEP Commissioner Vincent Sapienza.

 

Governor Cuomo Announces New York State's Lowest Daily Positivity Rate Since COVID-19 Crisis Began

 

Statewide Positivity Rate is 0.59% - Previous Record-Low Was 0.65% on August 27, 2020

7-Day Average Positivity of All 10 Regions of New York State Falls Below 2.0% for First Time Since October 28, 2020

7-Day Statewide Positivity Rate is 0.76% - Lowest Since August 29, 2020, Declined 53 Consecutive Days

1,169 Patient Hospitalizations Statewide - Lowest Since November 1, 2020

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The Finger Lakes' 7-day average positivity fell to 1.87% yesterday, bringing the individual 7-day average positivity of all 10 regions across the state below 2.0% for the first time since October 28, 2020.

"As we head into summer, it is incredible to reflect on where we were with COVID a year ago," Governor Cuomo said. "Thanks to the hard work of New Yorkers, we are getting closer to a reimagined normal every day. This is our opportunity to build back safer and stronger than ever before with a new perspective. As we inch toward the end of the tunnel, I want to encourage the people of our state to utilize the greatest tool we have in defeating the virus - the vaccine. It's free, accessible, and effective."

Today's data is summarized briefly below: 

• Test Results Reported - 159,504
• Total Positive - 937
• Percent Positive - 0.59%
• 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 0.76%
• Patient Hospitalization - 1,169 (-54)
• Net Change Patient Hospitalization Past Week - -275
• Patients Newly Admitted - 151
• Number ICU - 304 (+4)
• Number ICU with Intubation - 178 (+1)
• Total Discharges - 181,867 (+186)
• Deaths - 11
• Total Deaths - 42,665

219 Days and Counting

 

Well Charlene we're off to a four day weekend. See you Tuesday, if the city is still here.

Permits Filed For 2069 Bruckner Boulevard In Unionport, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for a nine-story mixed-use building at 2069 Bruckner Boulevard in Unionport, The Bronx. Located between Pugsley Avenue and Olmstead Avenue, the interior lot is near the Parkchester subway station, serviced by the 6 train. Guido Subotovsky under the Bruckner Affordable Owner LLC is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 95-foot-tall development will yield 280,731 square feet, with 262,718 square feet designated for residential space and 18,013 square feet for commercial space. The building will have 265 residences, most likely condos based on the average unit scope of 991 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have a 42-foot-long rear yard and 159 enclosed parking spaces.

Aufgang Architects is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits were filed in June 2019 for the one-story structure on the site. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

SUMMER OF NEW YORK CITY: 8 PUBLIC BEACHES OPEN FOR THE SUMMER STARTING SATURDAY, MAY 29

 

NYC Parks reminds all beach-goers to be safe in and around the water this summer, and only swim when lifeguards are on duty

 Mayor Bill de Blasio and NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP today announced that the City’s eight public beaches will open for swimming on Saturday, May 29, and remain open through Sunday, September 12, 2021.  Lifeguards will be on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; swimming is unsafe and strictly prohibited at all other times. Beach capacity will not be limited for the upcoming season. Face coverings will continue to be required in all Parks comfort stations and social distancing precautions should still be followed.

“This summer will be the Summer of New York City and that’s not complete without a trip to one of our beautiful beaches,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “To all New Yorkers: have fun and stay safe!”

 

“The summer heat has arrived, and with the return of swimming at our beaches, comes another step in our collective return to normalcy. It is with great pleasure that I say to all New Yorkers: grab your sunglasses, sunscreen, and swim gear -- beach season is here!” said NYC Parks Commissioner Mitchell J. Silver, FAICP. “We want everyone to enjoy our eight public beaches this season, but it must be done safely – swimming is only allowed in designated areas, from 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. when lifeguards are on duty.”

 

“This Memorial Day weekend is a chance for all of us to breathe a sigh of relief because of the great progress New Yorkers have made in the fight against COVID-19, but vaccination remains our best tool to keep transmission low,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi. “It’s never been easier to get vaccinated, and this weekend, you can get some summer sun AND a vaccine at the beach. Get vaccinated to protect your family, friends and city!”

 

City beaches span a total of 14 miles and include Orchard Beach in the Bronx; Coney Island and Manhattan Beach in Brooklyn; Rockaway Beach in Queens; and Midland Beach, South Beach, Cedar Grove Beach, and Wolfe's Pond Beach on Staten Island.

 

Brooklyn

Coney Island is ready to welcome back beachgoers and revelers alike! After an 18-month closure due to COVID-19, its world-famous eateries and attractions including Luna Park, Deno's Wonderwheel Amusement Park, and Nathan's Famous hot dogs are back and ready for summer! There is tons to do, including the launch of the new PHOENIX Family Thrill Roller Coaster at Deno's Wonder Wheel and the return of the firework displays every Friday throughout the summer at 9:30 p.m. When visitors are not strolling the boardwalk, soaking in the sun, or wading in the water, they can enjoy new exciting amenities like the brand-new pump track skate park at Steeplechase Plaza.

 

The Bronx

Orchard Beach, the Bronx’s sole public beach, was proclaimed “The Riviera of New York City” when it was created in the 1930s. Today, it remains a family friendly destination for summer fun, and will be welcoming visitors for swimming beginning May 29! This year, the Orchard Beach Nature Center will be open every day, and Parks will be hosting a series of fun, family-friendly events including movie nights, silent disco, beach volleyball, and a drive-in movie.  In addition to beachside activities, the project to restore the historic, landmarked Orchard Beach Pavilion is moving forward. The $75 million project, a joint renovation project with Parks & EDC, will completely restore the pavilion to its former glory, and construction is anticipated to begin in summer 2022.

 

Queens 

Rockaway Beach, one of New York City’s finest beach towns, welcomes visitors back to a replenished beach for a summer of coastal fun.  Rockaway Beach is home to the city’s only designated surfing areas and its boardwalk has become known for its varied concessions which sell food and drinks from around the world including Peruvian, Bolivian, Caribbean, and Central Asian fare. This year visitors can also indulge in new eateries along the boardwalk, courtesy of new concession operator Rockaway Beach Bazaar, while enjoying free community events, fitness classes and programming hosted by NYC Parks. And new for this year, some of the boardwalk concessions will stay open an extra hour until 11:00 p.m. As part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Atlantic Shoreline Resiliency Project, this summer will also see the continuous development and rehabilitation of stone groin structures along the shoreline. These new stone groins will provide stabilization for a re-nourished sand beach and dune and maintain the protective beach profile.

 

Staten Island

Staten Island is home to four of New York City’s public beaches. Visitors who are looking to do more than soak up sun at South and Midland beaches will have access to bike rentals with extended weekend hours. There will be a variety of bikes available for rent, including cruisers, tandem bikes and specialty Surrey bikes that seat up to six people. 

 

This summer NYC Parks will once again install sunscreen dispensers to provide free SPF 30 sun protection at all of its beaches, with dispensers located in or near all beach restrooms.  

 

As part of Parks’ 2021 water safety campaign, ads have been placed across the city reminding patrons the importance of swimming only in designated areas during lifeguard hours. Designed by Parks, the campaign targets teens and parents and can now be heard on the radio in English and Spanish, and seen on bus shelters, taxi tv, link NYC, Parks beaches across the city, and on social media platforms.

 

The Health Department is responsible for beach safety surveillance and water quality monitoring for all public and private beaches. To achieve this, the agency regularly tests the water quality and closely monitors rainfall amounts to make sure beach water is safe for swimming. When water is polluted from excessive rain runoff, sewage or other pollution, it can pose health risks to swimmers and beachgoers. Public and private beaches will post easy-to-read water quality advisory and closure signs to ensure that all beachgoers are aware of any health or safety risks.

 

The Health Department reminds beachgoers to sign up for “Know Before You Go,” a free text service in English and Spanish that informs New Yorkers if public beaches are open or closed due to water quality issues. New Yorkers can text “BEACH” or “PLAYA” to 877877 to get the status of any of the City’s eight public beaches. Beachgoers can also receive text alerts on weather conditions or warnings. The Health Department also released an updated Beach Water Quality portal where New Yorkers can look up the latest water quality reports for their local beach.

 

NYC Parks outdoor pools will open on Saturday, June 26, 2021.