MAYOR ADAMS APPOINTS YA-TING LIU AS NYC’S FIRST-EVER CHIEF PUBLIC REALM OFFICER

 

Creation of New Role Was Key Plank of Mayor Adams’ State of the City Address, Builds on $375 Million Investment in Public Spaces

 

Signed Today, Executive Order 27 Will Codify Position

New York City Mayor Eric Adams today appointed Ya-Ting Liu as the city’s first-ever chief public realm officer, delivering on a key promise from his State of the City address. In this newly created role, Liu will coordinate across city government, community organizations, and the private sector to create extraordinary public spaces across the entire city and continue to drive the city’s economic recovery. Mayor Adams today also signed Executive Order 27, codifying the creation of the position and ensuring that New Yorkers continue to have a one-stop shop for all issues related to public space.

 

“Our city’s public spaces are too important to fall through the cracks of bureaucracy, and now they won’t,” said Mayor Adams. “New Yorkers need to know there is one person at City Hall whose number one goal is to improve their quality of life by creating incredible, new public spaces and ensuring the ones we have are clean, equitable, and safe. As someone who knows how to think big and ‘Get Stuff Done’ for New Yorkers, Ya-Ting Liu is the right person to serve as the city’s first-ever chief public realm officer.”

 

“I am thrilled for Ya-Ting’s newest appointment as chief public realm officer. Her out-of-the-box-thinking, passion for well-designed, inclusive public spaces for all, and ability to bring all parts of government together is critical to the operations portfolio and ensuring that our agencies deliver forward-looking ideas and projects,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “She brings over 15 years of organizing, advocacy, and policy expertise on creating a built environment that is safe, clean, and livable for all. This is her first tour inside government, and she approaches complexity with a fresh, practical perspective. She knows what it takes to ‘Get Stuff Done,’ and I’m excited for her to realize the mayor’s vision for public realm.”

 

“Maintaining a vibrant public realm is absolutely vital to our economic recovery and the overall dynamism of our city, and I am thrilled to see the creation of the chief public realm officer role,” said Deputy Mayor for Economic and Workforce Development Maria Torres-Springer. “I look forward to continue working with Ya-Ting Liu as she spearheads improvements to our public realm in both our central business districts and in emerging commercial corridors across the five boroughs.”

 

“In New York City, the public realm is everyone’s living room. It’s where we eat, play, and gather. Having beautiful public spaces accessible to all people is one of our greatest assets — it is what makes New York City so special,” said Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu. “I am thrilled and honored to be the first-ever chief public realm officer for the City of New York, and I look forward to working with our businesses, community partners, and city agencies to build vibrant, attractive, and inclusive public spaces in all five boroughs.”

 

As chief public realm officer, Liu will focus on delivering two components of Mayor Adams’ “Working People’s Agenda.” She will execute on a plan to invest $375 million to create and expand high-quality public spaces in all five boroughs, which includes the Broadway Vision plan, a full reconstruction of Jamaica Avenue from Sutphin Boulevard to Merrick Boulevard, and permanent upgrades to Open Streets in the Bronx and on Staten Island. At the same time, she will lead the administration’s work to deliver a permanent outdoor dining program in partnership with the City Council that works for businesses and residents, building on the massive success of the pandemic-era temporary Open Restaurants program, with clear design guidelines and accessible tools for restaurant owners and communities.

 

Additionally, Liu will also advance forward-thinking reforms to make it easier for community groups and the private sector to partner with the city to become stewards of public spaces and for city agencies to pilot innovative designs and technologies that improve public space management.

 

Liu’s work will support the city’s recovery with a focus on quality of life, wellness, safety, and equity. Building on the recommendations of the “New” New York panel and Mayor Adams’ $900 million investment in traffic safety, her additional priority projects will include:

• Keeping city streets vibrant by addressing the longstanding, pervasive issue of unsightly sidewalk construction sheds, replacing them with newly designed structures, and strengthening enforcement against those who leave sheds up for years;
• Reimagining Fifth Avenue from Bryant Park to Central Park as a safer, less congested, pedestrian-centered boulevard that also prioritizes pedestrians, cyclists, mass transit, and public space, in partnership with a wide range of public, private, and community partners; and
• Reclaiming spaces under the Brooklyn Bridge in Manhattan, that have for years been closed to most New Yorkers, for public use.

“Ya-Ting Liu’s appointment reaffirms the strong commitment to the public realm throughout the Adams administration, and she is perfectly positioned to lead this effort given her longstanding role working under the leadership of Deputy Mayor Joshi,” said New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. “I’m excited to continue to work with Ya-Ting to build upon the innovative leadership of DOT’s public space team, and coordinate the key contributions from NYCEDC, NYC Parks, the Mayor’s Office of Citywide Event Coordination and Management, and others.”

 

“Our public spaces play an increasingly important role for New Yorkers, as places to play, learn, rest, and connect,” said New York City Department of Parks and Recreation (NYC Parks) Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “We have long known that our parks are essential infrastructure, but COVID entirely changed the way we think about and interact with public space. It’s more important than ever to coordinate with our sister agencies, and we’re excited to work with Ya-Ting and break down silos to better serve New Yorkers.”

 

“From waste containerization to street sweeping to outdoor dining, so many of the biggest, most visible, and complicated questions of municipal management take place in the public realm,” said New York City Department of Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch. “The urban space that we all share deserves not just attention, discussion, and planning, but also action, and a principled, dedicated public servant to ‘Get Stuff Done’ for our neighborhoods. I have had the privilege of working closely with Ya-Ting Liu, and I am thrilled to have her continuing to serve as a colleague in this new role.”

 

“Creating and carving out public spaces where residents can freely and safely walk and bike around the city encourages low-carbon transportation, which is crucial to combating climate change,” said New York City Chief Climate Officer and Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Rohit T. Aggarwala. “I look forward to collaborating with Chief Public Realm Officer Ya-Ting Liu on ways we can better utilize public spaces across the city.”

 

“I cannot think of a better person to lead the city’s public realm work than Ya-Ting Liu,” said New York City Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Executive Director Kizzy Charles-Guzmán. “She is a known collaborator and problem solver and will undoubtedly model an equitable and climate-focused approach to create a more livable city that centers safety, accessibility, good health, play, and joy for all New Yorkers.”

 

“We owe it to New Yorkers to make much-needed improvements to the public realm,” said New York City Department of Buildings Acting Commissioner Kazimir Vilenchik, P.E. “I commend Mayor Adams for smartly choosing Ya-Ting Liu for this role, and I look forward to working with her on improving the pedestrian experience by modernizing sidewalk sheds and ramping up enforcement efforts against owners who allow sheds to remain in place for too long.”

 

“We are thrilled to welcome Ya-Ting Liu as the first chief public realm officer of New York City,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) President and CEO Andrew Kimball. “The creation of this position was a key action item from the ‘New’ New York Panel’s action plan to make New York City the best place for work by making it the best place — period. Under Ya-Ting’s leadership, there will be a clear voice and vision guiding across all agencies to promote strategies for improving livability through public realm improvements and strategic problem solving. I look forward to continuing to work with Ya-Ting to help create a more vibrant and accessible public realm for all New Yorkers.”

 

“New York wouldn’t be New York without its extraordinary public realm,” said New York City Department of City Planning Director (DCP) and City Planning Commission Chair Dan Garodnick. “Parks, privately-owned public spaces, shared streets, waterfront access, and Open Restaurants are just some of the ways DCP is connecting New Yorkers. We’re excited and ready to work with the dedicated, passionate Ya-Ting Liu to make our public spaces even better. Together, we’ll create a healthier, safer, more walkable city for all.”

 

“Investments in public space are essential to enlivening our commercial corridors,” said New York City Department of Small Business Services Commissioner Kevin D. Kim. “From Open Streets to outdoor dining, public spaces keep small businesses open and thriving. By appointing the city’s first-ever chief public realm officer, Mayor Adams is showing once again his dedication to improving our neighborhoods with safe, social spaces that ensure our workers, business owners, shoppers, and all residents are able to enjoy all our city has to offer. We are excited to partner with Ya-Ting Liu as she takes on major projects to improve the quality of life in the city’s commercial districts.”

 

“The Public Design Commission is thrilled that Ya-Ting Liu will be New York City’s first chief public realm officer,” said New York City Public Design Commission (PDC) Executive Director Sreoshy Banerjea. “At long last, we will have the focus on innovation, implementation, maintenance, and interagency coordination that breaks down silos between agencies and civic organizations and works toward a common goal of delivering extraordinary public spaces. PDC is a natural partner to help the chief public realm officer identify opportunities and advocate for priorities that align with our collective mission of delivering high-quality public spaces.”

 

DEC Announces Second Successful Year of Youth Deer Hunt Pilot Program

 

Youth Hunters Record Another Safe Year With More than 1,800 Deer Harvests Reported

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today announced results of the second year of a pilot program allowing mentored 12- and 13-year-old hunters to harvest deer with a firearm or crossbow. The results show youth big game hunters enjoyed another safe, successful, and well-attended season afield.

“Once again, DEC is hearing from families across the state who were thrilled to share their traditions of hunting and wildlife conservation with younger family members,” Commissioner Seggos said. “DEC’s review of data collected also shows youth hunters followed safety guidelines and showed both respect for wildlife and their fellow hunters while afield. I’m proud to see that New York’s environment is in good hands with this next generation of environmental stewards.”

Last fall, more than 9,400 12-and 13-year-old hunters, representing nearly 9,200 families, were eligible to hunt deer with a firearm or crossbow and youth hunters submitted more than 1,800 deer harvest reports.

DEC conducted a post-hunting survey that found 82 percent of youth hunters and 87 percent of their adult mentors were moderately or greatly satisfied with their youth big game hunting experience. Additionally, no hunting-related shooting incidents, violations, or license revocations involving 12- and 13-year-old hunters occurred during the first two years of the pilot program. 

In 2021, legislation authorized 12- and 13-year-olds to hunt deer with an experienced adult mentor in eligible areas of the state under a three-year pilot program. The law required DEC to analyze results of the pilot program each year and report its findings back to the State Legislature. DEC tracked participation, satisfaction, deer harvest, and safety compliance in the pilot program, and submitted a report to the New York State Legislature sharing its findings from the 2022/23 hunting season and recommendations for future actions.

Visit DEC’s website for more information on youth hunting opportunities in New York.

NYC PUBLIC ADVOCATE CALLS FOR STATE SUPPORT OF OVERDOSE PREVENTION CENTERS AFTER TOUR

 

After touring an Overdose Prevention Center in East Harlem Wednesday and seeing other wraparound services provided on-site, Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams called on the Governor to prioritize allocating funds for the operation and expansion of these lifesaving centers. Watch video of his comments after the tour here. 

Overdose Prevention Centers allow people with substance use disorders to safely use drugs under medical supervision, while receiving services such as medical care, mental health treatment, and more. There are currently two locations in New York City, both run by OnPointNYC, with the second located in Washington Heights. Since the first center opened in December of 2021, staff have intervened to save lives in over 700 overdoses. They are currently doing all of this without critical state support. 

“Overdose Prevention Centers and the harm reduction model that they practice are saving lives, and supporting communities with daily, demonstrable impact,” said Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams. “Misconceptions and mischaracterizations about the role, impact, and operation of overdose prevention centers are pervasive, as they conflate these spaces and services with other treatment options. If everyone could see what I witnessed there, the level of care, humanity, community, and lifesaving results that emanate from these centers, they would join me in saying that we need more hours, more centers, and more funding to support their efforts.”

Last year, New York State’s Opioid Settlement Fund Advisory Board proposed using the funds procured through legal settlements with pharmaceutical companies that have been accused of perpetuating the opioid crisis. About $129 million of the $2 billion New York has received through these settlements will be allocated throughout the state this fiscal year to address issues related to opioid use, but that allocation does not include support for Overdose Prevention Centers. 

The Public Advocate is calling for the state to provide $5 million in the coming budget to help support the services of the two existing centers and enable them to operate 24 hours a day. He also called for Governor Hochul to authorize the centers.

New York would not be the only jurisdiction allocating funds to OPCs. Rhode Island’s Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee recently approved and allocated $2.5 million from settlements with pharmaceutical companies for a planned overdose prevention center in Providence.

The tragedy of overdose continues to grow nationwide and in New York. There were over 106,000 overdose deaths nationally in 2021, an increase of about 15,000 over the previous year. In New York, there were 5,841 deaths in 2021, up from 4,965 in 2020.

"Supervised consumption saves lives. Period. It is a life-saving medical intervention that truly meets people where they are, extend to them the grace and compassion they deserve and give them the tools they need to stay alive. I want to thank Public Advocate Williams for his leadership in calling on the state to utilize resources from its opioid settlement fund to support OPCs and fulfill the fund’s intended objective – to support people who are impacted the most by the opioid crisis," said Sam Rivera, Executive Director of OnPoint NYC.

“Overdose prevention centers are evidence-based, proven health interventions, utilized in almost 200 countries around the world, to save lives. With the two overdose prevention centers here in New York City, we were able to reverse 633 overdoses in their first year of operation. But two overdose prevention centers, in just two neighborhoods, that are privately funded, is not enough. We need New York state lawmakers to step in to authorize and overdose prevention centers and fund them with opioid settlement funds. The purpose of that funding is to support people who are struggling with opioid use or at risk of overdose death. And the first line of support is to keep people alive,” said Toni Smith, NY State Director, Drug Policy Alliance.

Attorney General James and Multistate Coalition Support CVS and Walgreens for Offering Medication Abortion

 

23 Attorneys General Assure CVS and Walgreens that Offering Medication Abortion in their Pharmacies is Legal

New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 23 attorneys general sent a letter to CVS and Walgreens supporting their decision to offer mifepristone and misoprostol, often referred to as medication abortion, in their pharmacies after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted their certification. After CVS and Walgreens announced their decision to offer mifepristone and misoprostol at their pharmacies, a group of anti-abortion states wrote a letter to the companies warning of legal repercussions if the pharmacies attempt to dispense the medications by mail. Mifepristone and misoprostol were approved by the FDA more than 20 years ago and are widely used for abortion care and to treat other health issues, such as miscarriages and gastric ulcers. In today’s letter, the attorneys general emphasize that making these essential medications available at pharmacies and by mail is safe and legal. 

“Increasing access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare is critically important to the health and wellbeing of millions of people across the country,” said Attorney General James. “The evidence is clear: medication abortion is safe and effective, and decades of clinical research back that up. Pharmacies that offer this life-saving medication have the full support of my office. We will continue to defend reproductive rights and protect efforts to expand access to reproductive care.”

In today’s letter, 23 attorneys general assured CVS and Walgreens that the companies’ decision to dispense mifepristone and misoprostol is on solid legal footing and supported by over 100 years of legal precedent. 

Specifically, the letter highlights:  

• Mifepristone and misoprostol are safe, effective, and reliable medications. The anti-abortion states’ claim that “abortion pills are far riskier than surgical abortion” has been proven utterly false over and over again in numerous scientific studies.
• Restricting access to medication abortion jeopardizes patients’ health, safety, and well-being, often forcing them to delay their care or seek abortions through unsafe means. By contrast, ensuring access to medication abortion as early as possible lowers the risk of complications.
• Having the option to use medication abortion empowers people to make the personal and confidential choice of which method of abortion is better for them based on factors including cost, accessibility, medical history, age, and a desire to avoid surgery. Many pregnant people choose medical over surgical abortion because it can offer a more private and flexible option.
• Increased access to reproductive care is especially important for communities underserved by the healthcare system, including people of color, low-income people, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals, and people living in rural areas, who face the greatest barriers to getting the care they need in a timely and safe manner.

Attorney General James has been a national leader in protecting access to reproductive healthcare. Last week, Attorney General James led a multistate coalition to defend and protect access to medication abortion in a court challenge that seeks to revoke FDA’s approval of mifepristone. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to end Roe v. Wade, Attorney General James launched a pro bono legal hotline to provide legal support to patients and healthcare providers nationwide. 

Today’s letter to CVS and Walgreens was sent by the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.

Former Bond Trader And Hedge Fund Founder Jeffrey Soberman Parket Pleads Guilty To $65 Million Ponzi Lending Scheme

 

  Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Daniel B. Brubaker, Inspector in Charge of the New York Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”), announced that JEFFREY SOBERMAN PARKET, a former bond trader and the former principal of several hedge funds, pled guilty in Manhattan federal court to wire fraud and bank fraud.  PARKET obtained over $65 million in loans from individual and institutional lenders by fabricating assets, doctoring bank and brokerage statements, and forging business correspondence and signatures, resulting in over $37 million in victim losses.  PARKET pled guilty before United States District Judge Mary Kay Vyskocil.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Parket traded on his reputation as a respected financier and fabricated paper assets to defraud lenders of millions of dollars in loans that they never would have made if not for his lies and the sophisticated ruses he used to support those lies.  His scheme cost some of his victims everything they had.  He will now be held accountable for his deceit.”

USPIS Inspector in Charge Daniel B. Brubaker said: “Parket took advantage of his investors’ trust, among them his friends and family members, and perpetrated an intricate scheme involving fraudulent documents and identity theft to hide his fraud from them.  However, Postal Inspectors and our law enforcement partners unraveled Parket’s web of deceit and exposed all his crimes.  Parket’s conviction vindicates the investors he defrauded of almost $40 million.  His conviction should also serve as a warning to would-be fraudsters: Postal Inspectors will dedicate every resource in our arsenal to protect the integrity of the mail and pursue anyone who betrays the public trust and preys on innocent investors.”

As alleged in the Complaint and Information and based on other filings and statements made in court:

From at least 2016 through December 2021, PARKET fraudulently obtained over $65 million in short-term loans from individuals and financial institutions by materially misrepresenting his financial condition and pledging fake collateral.  Claiming that he needed short-term liquidity for investment opportunities or real estate purchases, PARKET constructed elaborate stories and submitted hundreds of pages of supporting documents to obtain loans he had no intention of repaying.  Among other things, he falsified bank and brokerage statements and contracts allegedly reflecting his significant assets and ownership interests in valuable investment accounts.  To furnish proof of some of these ownership interests, PARKET also used the names, titles, and forged signatures of actual company executives he falsely claimed were his business associates.  He created fake email addresses for them and forged lengthy email correspondence regarding measures supposedly taken by PARKET and his purported business associates to secure the loans.

To perpetuate the scheme, PARKET used loans from new lenders to pay back earlier lenders. He also made fraudulent representations about delayed acquisitions and temporary liquidity issues to induce his existing lenders to extend the maturity date of his loans or to provide him millions of dollars in additional loans.

PARKET’s individual victims included friends and professional acquaintances, some of whom he persuaded to provide him numerous loans.  His institutional victims included short-term bridge lenders, a real estate services company, a bank insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and an insurance company focused on helping clients save for retirement.

Throughout the offense period, PARKET also persuaded family members to transfer funds to his personal accounts by falsely promising to safely invest their life savings on their behalf.  He then used the funds to pay down fraudulently obtained loans.

PARKET, 59, of Great Neck, New York, pled guilty to one count of wire fraud affecting a financial institution and one count of bank fraud, each of which carries a maximum potential sentence of 30 years in prison.

The statutory maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.  Sentencing has been scheduled for June 28, 2023.

Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of USPIS.

Governor Hochul Announces Annual Free Snowmobiling Weekend

 

Registration Waived for Out-of-State Snowmobilers for March 3 to 5

First Weekend in March to be Dedicated to Free Snowmobile Weekend Each Year

 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that beginning March 3 to 5 this year, and annually thereafter, the first consecutive Saturday and Sunday in March, will be free for all out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers. During this promotional weekend, the requirement to register in New York is waived for properly registered and insured out-of-state snowmobiling enthusiasts wishing to explore New York's 10,500 miles of snowmobile trails.

“With the support of local governments and snowmobile clubs, we are so glad to welcome out-of-state snowmobilers each year to New York State trails,” Governor Hochul said. “By offering this free snowmobiling weekend at the same time each year, our hope is to spur friendships, get annual trips on calendars and boost promotion of upstate tourism. Our expansive snowmobile network gives visitors and tourists an incredible opportunity to explore our state.”

Out-of-state and Canadian participants in the free snowmobiling event must operate a snowmobile that is registered in their home state/Province and must carry any applicable insurance as required. Outside of this promotion, out-of-state and Canadian snowmobilers are required to register their snowmobiles with New York State before hitting the state's trails – from the Hudson Valley to the North Country to Western New York.

This year's free snowmobiling weekend, March 3 to 5, 2023, reinforces the importance of tourism to state and local economies, and New York's commitment to the industry in the wake of the pandemic. New York State has made an ongoing commitment to snowmobile trail maintenance and our local grants program is funded by snowmobile registration fees collected by the State Department of Motor Vehicles and deposited into the Snowmobile Trail Development and Maintenance Fund. County and municipal governments distribute the grants to about 230 snowmobile clubs across the state, which in turn groom and maintain the trails. The trail grants support 10,500 miles of designated trails across the state for snowmobilers to safely enjoy.

Commissioner of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Erik Kulleseid said, “There is no limit to what New Yorkers can experience across our state and now we’re revved up to welcome even more outdoor winter enthusiasts to the Empire State. I’m grateful to the snowmobile clubs and local governments who help with the upkeep of trails and make sure they are safe and well-groomed for residents and visitors alike.”

Trail conditions vary depending on snowfall amounts and other factors. State Parks cautions snowmobilers, fishermen, skiers and snowshoers to put safety first and to proceed with extreme caution before venturing on ice- or snow-covered bodies of water. The unusually warm weather conditions forecasted over the next week and associated runoff could undermine existing ice. Ice thickness can vary on every body of water; even within the same body of water. Given the warmer temperatures we’ve had this winter, lakes and ponds that appear to be frozen over may be deceiving. Be aware of potential hazards under ice- or snow-covered bodies of water. The presence of snowmobile tracks or footprints on the ice should not be taken as evidence of safe ice conditions. Individuals are strongly encouraged to check ice conditions locally and avoid situations that appear to present even a remote risk. Venturing out on ice that is not thick enough can lead to tragedy and we want to ensure that recreationalists have an enjoyable time while also taking the proper precautions to stay safe. State funded snowmobile trails never cross frozen bodies of water.

Check the websites of area snowmobile clubs for information on trail conditions, including the status of grooming. Individuals operating a snowmobile should be familiar with safe riding practices and all applicable laws, rules and regulations. The New York State Snowmobile Association website provides information about snowmobiling and snowmobile clubs. Maps of the state snowmobile trail network are available on New York State Parks' website here.

A guide from I LOVE NY to snowmobile trips available in the state can be found here.

The DMV reminds New York riders that snowmobile registrations must be renewed annually. DMV allows snowmobilers to renew registrations online on the DMV website, by mail or in person at a DMV office. Snowmobile registration costs $100 but is decreased to $45 if the snowmobiler is a member of a local snowmobile club.

Non-New Yorkers who wish to use a snowmobile in New York State before or after this promotional weekend can use the NYS Registration for Out-of-State Snowmobile service to get a 15-day registration and operate their snowmobile here immediately. DMV will send a permanent registration in the mail.

For information on snowmobiling, visit parks.ny.gov. Visit the DEC website here for more information on snowmobiling on state lands.

Wave Hill Events March 2-March 9

 

Spring into Wave Hill! It’s the perfect time to visit and experience the beauty of early spring. Join our weekly guided garden walk to explore what’s blooming. This week, the Family Art Project takes inspiration from the growing season. Create and decorate your very own pot for planting! On March 5, join us in Wave Hill House for an enlightening conversation with exhibiting artist and horticulturist Rebecca Allan and design historian Sarah Lichtman, and explore our relationship to the natural world and each other, through the related labors and tools of painting and horticulture. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity! 

Family Art Project: A Growing Season 

Sat, March 4, 2023, 10AM–1PM 

Sun, March 5, 2023, 10AM–1PM 

Free with admission to the grounds 

Meet at Wave Hill House  

With spring fast approaching, we need pots for planting! Inspired by the many plants emerging at this time of year, design a pot using upcycled cardboard boxes. Then, decorate your pot, add some soil and you'll be ready to plant a seed! 

Registration not required.  

 

The program takes place indoors in the Kerlin Learning Center located on the lower level of Wave Hill House. Please note the following important COVID-related information to ensure everyone’s safety: 

• Approximately nine families will be able to participate at a time, based on the time each family arrives. 

• If capacity is full when you arrive, we will provide a “come back” card so you will have first entry for the next session. 

• Each family will receive its own set of materials and cleaning will happen in between seating participants. 

• Unvaccinated visitors are encouraged to wear a mask inside. 

Wave Hill House is located along a paved route with moderate changes in grade. The building is wheelchair-accessible. There is an accessible, ground-level entrance at the front of the building with a power-assist door. The restroom on the ground level is all-gender and ADA-compliant. Additional ADA-compliant restrooms are available on the lower level, which can be accessed by elevator. 

  

Art Conversation: “Spade & Brush: Painting the Material Culture of the Garden” 

Sun, Mar 5, 2023, 1–2:30PM

Free with admission to the grounds 

Wave Hill House 

Join painter and horticulturist Rebecca Allan for a conversation with design historian Sarah Lichtman. The speakers will discuss the ways in which we reinvent and sustain our relationships to the natural world and each other, through the related labors and tools of painting and horticulture. Allan and Lichtman will show images of Allan’s recent works from Cultivating Eden, currently on view in Wave Hill House. They will also reference art historical examples that reflect our fascination with gardens and plant life as subject matter in art, including paintings by 16th century Dutch artist Pieter Bruegel the Elder and 18th-century Italian artist Giovanni Batista Tiepolo. 

Advance registration encouraged but not required, online or at 718.549.3200 x251.   

Questions? Please email us at information@wavehill.org or call the telephone number and extension above. 

 

The ground floor and lower level of Wave Hill House are wheelchair-accessible. There is an accessible, ground-level entrance at the front of the building with a power-assist door. The restroom on the ground level is all-gender and ADA-compliant. Additional ADA-compliant restrooms are available on the lower level, which can be accessed by an elevator. 

This program is held in conjunction with Rebecca Allan’s exhibition, Cultivating Eden, on view in Wave Hill House from January 18 through June 4, 2023.  

 

 

Public Garden and Conservatory Highlights Walk 

Sun, March 5, 2023, 2–2:45PM 

Free with admission to the grounds 

Meet at Perkins Visitor Center 

Join a knowledgeable Wave Hill Garden Guide for a leisurely stroll in the gardens. Topics vary by season and the expertise of the Guide--come back for an encore; each walk varies with the Guide leading it. This walk lasts a half-hour to 45 minutes. Severe weather cancels. 

Registration is not required for this drop-in event. Public Garden Walks are most appropriate for adults or young adults. Not intended for groups; groups should sign-up for Private Garden Tours. 

Questions? Please email us at information@wavehill.org or call 718.549.3200 x251.   

Garden Highlights Walks follow a variety of routes along mixed-material pathways and varying elevations. Accessible routes are available as requested; please indicate your need to Wave Hill staff at the Greeter Desk in the Perkins Visitor Center.   

 

HOURS: 10AM–4:30PM, Tuesday–Sunday.

 

Information at 718.549.3200. On the web at wavehill.org.

NYS Office of the Comptroller DiNapoli Seeks Increased Diversity at Pension Fund's Portfolio Companies

 

State Pension Fund Seeks Corporate Action on Discrimination and Racial Equity

Chipotle to Conduct an Independent Racial Equity Audit

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli today announced a series of shareholder proposals and other initiatives as part of the New York State Common Retirement Fund’s (Fund) ongoing efforts to increase corporate accountability for progress on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) issues.

“We encourage the Fund’s portfolio companies to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion throughout their businesses not just because it is the right thing to do, but because they will be better positioned to prosper in the long-term,” DiNapoli said. “As a major investor, focused on safeguarding our pension fund’s long-term value, we call on portfolio companies to adopt best practices that benefit their bottom line. More and more companies are making real progress, but more work needs to be done.”

“Harassment and discrimination, too often swept under the rug, can have a corrosive effect on work environment and threaten the reputation and success of companies,” said New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, who co-filed two of the shareholder proposals on behalf of the NYC Retirement Systems. “As shareholders, we believe that it does not serve companies or their workers to maintain a culture of secrecy about these negative experiences in the workplace. What cannot be discussed cannot be addressed. We are proud to join Comptroller DiNapoli and the New York State Common Retirement Fund to ask these companies to publicly report on the outcomes of their efforts to prevent harassment and discrimination and hold these employers accountable for their efforts.”

Companies—and their shareholders—benefit from DEI and policies that ensure hiring from the deepest pool of talent. To encourage companies to improve their practices and, by extension, their long-term value, DiNapoli and the Fund have filed a series of shareholder proposals that ask portfolio companies to increase their transparency and address the risks that come with a failure to uphold inclusivity and diversity.

Racial Equity Audit

At Chipotle, DiNapoli refiled a shareholder proposal seeking an independent audit of the company’s practices related to civil rights, racial equity, diversity and inclusion, and how these affect the company’s business. Last year, the proposal won 36% support from Chipotle’s shareholders. Last week, Chipotle announced the commencement of an independent third-party audit, joining Amazon, Dollar General, Dollar Tree and Match Group who adopted the pension fund’s proposal last year. As a result of the company’s action, the proposal has been withdrawn.

Workforce DEI Reporting

DiNapoli’s shareholder proposals filed at Universal Health Services, Inc. and Brinker International, Inc. ask the companies to disclose progress they have made on improving DEI in their workplaces. The proposals ask for a public accounting of the companies’ employee recruitment, retention and promotion rates, and pay by gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, disability and veteran status.   

Disparities in Health Care Outcomes

DiNapoli advanced two new initiatives focused on health care equity. Proposals filed at Humana Inc. and Elevance Health Inc. seek an analysis of racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare outcomes. DiNapoli and the Fund ask that these reports detail the extent of racial and ethnic disparities identified, along with information about any impediments faced in collecting this data and the efforts the companies are making to eliminate the disparities and improve healthcare results. Since filing, the Comptroller has reached an agreement with Humana, which has agreed to publish a report on identifying and addressing racial and ethnic health disparities. The proposal has been withdrawn from Humana as a result.

Separate proposals, filed at two Fortune 500 health care companies — Centene Corporation and Molina Healthcare, Inc. — ask the companies to include reductions in maternal morbidity (death or unexpected severe outcomes after labor or delivery) as part their performance evaluations that determine senior executives’ compensation. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than White women. 

Discrimination and Harassment Disclosure

Corporations must proactively address the corrosive effect that discrimination and sexual harassment have on workplace rights, morale, and company performance. DiNapoli has filed proposals with Activision Blizzard, Inc., Pinterest, Inc., and Wells Fargo Company — companies that have been impacted by allegations of discrimination or harassment. The proposals ask the companies to publicly report on their efforts to prevent harassment and discrimination, including the number of pending complaints, the number and dollar amounts of recent settlements and the number of enforceable contracts that contain concealment clauses that restrict discussion of harassment or discrimination. The proposals at Pinterest and Wells Fargo were co-filed by Lander and three of the NYC Retirement Systems.

In addition to these shareholder proposals, DiNapoli is writing to companies in the Fund’s portfolio requesting information about board and workforce DEI policies and practices. The letter expands on his August 2020 request that companies embrace improved policies. The letters will be sent to 75 of the largest Russell 1000 index companies that lack sufficient board diversity according to the Fund’s Proxy Voting Guidelines. Companies receiving the letter include JPMorgan Chase & Co., Costco Wholesale Corporation, Netflix, Inc., Citigroup Inc., Moderna, Inc., Dell Technologies, Inc., and Caesars Entertainment, Inc.

Board Votes

The Fund believes in the importance of board diversity as an essential measure of sound governance and a critical attribute of a well-functioning board of directors. At board elections of Russell 1000 companies, the Fund, in accordance with its Proxy Voting Guidelines, will vote:

• Against all incumbent board nominees at companies with no board directors identifying as an underrepresented minority (as defined by federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which includes one or more of the following: Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, Asian, Native American or Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander);
• Against all incumbent nominating committee nominees when a board has just one director identifying as an underrepresented minority;
• Against all incumbent nominating committee nominees at companies that do not disclose the self-identified individual racial/ethnic diversity of their board directors; and
• Against all incumbent nominating committee nominees at companies that do not explicitly consider both gender and racial/ethnic diversity in their search for directors.

The Fund believes that disclosure of EEO-1 data helps investors assess their portfolio companies’ commitments to greater inclusion not just in a given year, but over time and will vote against all incumbent compensation committee members of Russell 1000 Index companies that fail to disclose EEO-1 data to investors.

Since 2018, the Fund has voted against incumbent board directors seeking re-election at companies that have no women on their boards. When a company has just one woman on its board, the Fund votes against all incumbent members of the board's nominating committee.