Sunday, August 22, 2021

Representative Jamaal Bowman - Preparing for Hurricane Henri

 

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Dear neighbor, 

I hope this finds you safe and well. My team and I are keeping a close watch on the developments of Hurricane Henri, which is approaching the East Coast and parts of New York, including our district, as we speak. A state of emergency has been declared for Bronx and Westchester counties, and New York City is currently under a tropical storm warning.

The hurricane may make landfall as soon as tomorrow. Please make preparations to ensure that you and your loved ones are able to stay safe. Heavy rainfall, flooding, power outages, and other impacts from the storm are possible. Be sure to charge phones and other electronics and prepare flashlights.

See here for more information about Hurricane Preparedness from FEMA: https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20210821/fema-urges-preparedness-now-hurricane-henri

ConEdison customers can report outages to them by calling 1-800-752-6633, and you can sign up for text notifications by texting REG to 688243.

I also ask that you be sure to check on your neighbors and family who may need assistance. Let’s get through this storm safely. As always, please know that our office can be a resource to you for emergencies like these and many other services. Our contact info can be found below.

In New York City: Call 911 for emergencies and 311 for non-emergencies.
In Westchester: you can contact Emergency Services at (914) 231-1900.


Bronx District Office
177 Dreiser Loop
Room 3
Bronx, NY 10475
Phone: (718) 530-7710
Westchester District Office
6 Gramatan Ave.
Suite 205
Mt. Vernon, NY 10550
Phone: (914) 371-9220


Kind Regards,

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Rep. Jamaal Bowman

136 Days and Counting - Damn Hurricane Ruined My Concert

 


Damn Hurricane, it cut my Homecoming Concert short. We saved the best acts for last, and the people didn't get to see them. 


At least King Cuomo will be abdicating his thrown Monday at 11:59 PM, and a one year (not even a full term) former member of congress will become the next governor. Kathy Hochul had to win a special election to get into congress, and now she has to have the governorship handed to her. 


I, Bill de Blasio will be elected the next governor of New York State.

Saturday, August 21, 2021

Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress During COVID-19 Pandemic - AUGUST 21, 2021

 

54,431 Vaccine Doses Administered Over Last 24 Hours 

18 COVID-19 Deaths Statewide Yesterday 


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

"The Delta variant continues to be a very serious threat, and we know what COVID is capable of if we were to let it outmaneuver us," Governor Cuomo said. "We simply cannot afford to risk all the progress we've made against this virus. Our frontline workers and everyday New Yorkers made great sacrifices to get us where we are today - and the best way to honor that is to get vaccinated. If you still need to get your shot, I urge you to do so quickly at one of our many sites across the state."

Today's data is summarized briefly below: 

  • Test Results Reported - 169,716 
  • Total Positive - 4,990 
  • Percent Positive - 2.94% 
  • 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 3.12% 
  • Patient Hospitalization - 1,978 (+44) 
  • Patients Newly Admitted - 298 
  • Patients in ICU - 407 (+6) 
  • Patients in ICU with Intubation - 184 (+9) 
  • Total Discharges - 190,381 (+261) 
  • Deaths - 18 
  • Total Deaths - 43,355 
  • Total vaccine doses administered - 23,187,384 
  • Total vaccine doses administered over past 24 hours - 54,431 
  • Total vaccine doses administered over past 7 days - 329,230 
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose - 75.5% 
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series - 68.8%
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 78.3%
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 70.4%
  • Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose - 63.5% 
    Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series - 57.4%
  • Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 65.9%
  • Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 58.9% 

Councilman Mark Gjonaj's NYC Moving Forward Week in Review - 8/20/2021

 

Dear Friends,

I hope you and your families are doing well as New York City hit a major milestone in its vaccination campaign this week with 75 percent of all adults having received at least one dose of the coronavirus vaccine. Let’s continue to encourage our families and friends to get vaccinated. Please find a vaccination site near you at https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/locations

The death toll from last Saturday's powerful earthquake in Haiti has risen to more than 2,000. The people of Haiti need our help and amidst thoughts, prayers and solidarity, please join our Haiti Earthquake Relief Drive as our District Office is accepting donations of much needed items: canned goods, dry food, bottled water, baby supplies, toiletries, batteries etc, Monday through Friday between 10am and 4pm until August 27th.

Alarmed by the rise in illegal dirt bike usage, I am glad to lead the efforts with over 22 members of the New York City Council calling on the Mayor to take immediate action to increase penalties and change enforcement policies for illegal dirt bikes as the situation continues to rapidly escalate into an all-out public safety crisis.

We are proud of an eventful summer in District 13 with so many concerts and ending with a Concert in City Island, a tribute to Pepe Cardona with the music of Alive & Kicking and other musicians on Friday, August 20th at 6PM at the Ambrosini Field.

Team Gjonaj has given out over 600 bookbags and supplies and counting. Please follow us on our social media, check the Week in Review or call our office for locations and times.

Our Free Fitting Helmet Distribution on Pelham Bay Park was a great success with over 400 helmets given out to children and families in our District.

Please remember we are here for you, contact my office with issues or concerns at 718-931-1721 or email at MGjonaj@council.nyc.gov.

Sincerely,

NYC Councilman Mark Gjonaj
District 13, Bronx




Governor Cuomo Declares State of Emergency in Advance of Hurricane Henri as Storm Shifts Toward a Direct Hit on Central Long Island

 


Governor Calls Up 500 National Guard Troops and Directs State Assets and Personnel to Prepare for Serious Storm Impacts in Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange, Dutchess, Sullivan, Columbia, Delaware, Greene, Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Rensselaer, Schoharie, Albany, Montgomery, Schenectady, Saratoga, and Contiguous Counties

Storm Expected to be Near or At Hurricane Strength When It Makes Landfall Sunday

Main Threats From Storm Will Be Dangerous Surge, Heavy Rain, Strong Winds, Power Outages

State Emergency Operations and Fire Operations Centers Activated to Coordinate Requests for Assistance


Governor Cuomo today declared a State of Emergency for Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange, Dutchess, Sullivan, Columbia, Delaware, Greene, Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Rensselaer, Schoharie, Albany, Montgomery, Schenectady, Saratoga, and contiguous counties as Hurricane Henri threatens to make landfall in Long Island on Sunday. The storm, which is expected to be near hurricane strength when it makes landfall, is forecast to affect coastal areas with dangerous storm surge, as well as heavy rainfall, dangerous surf conditions and widespread power outages. Inland locations, including Westchester County and Upstate areas, could also be affected with heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Governor Cuomo is also requesting President Biden declare a pre-landfall emergency declaration. This federal declaration authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance to New Yorkers, in the aftermath of Henri and its impacts. The declaration provides assistance for measures taken to save lives, protect property, and address public health and safety issues. 

Governor Cuomo today declared a State of Emergency for Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk, Westchester, Putnam, Rockland, Orange, Dutchess, Sullivan, Columbia, Delaware, Greene, Broome, Chenango, Otsego, Rensselaer, Schoharie, Albany, Montgomery, Schenectady, Saratoga, and contiguous counties as Hurricane Henri threatens to make landfall in Long Island on Sunday. The storm, which is expected to be near hurricane strength when it makes landfall, is forecast to affect coastal areas with dangerous storm surge, as well as heavy rainfall, dangerous surf conditions and widespread power outages. Inland locations, including Westchester County and Upstate areas, could also be affected with heavy rainfall and strong winds.

Governor Cuomo is also requesting President Biden declare a pre-landfall emergency declaration. This federal declaration authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance to New Yorkers, in the aftermath of Henri and its impacts. The declaration provides assistance for measures taken to save lives, protect property, and address public health and safety issues. 

Governor Cuomo activated 500 National Guard troops for deployment to Long Island and the Hudson Valley region to help localities with storm response efforts, including 11 high axle trucks and 14 military Humvees.

The New York State Emergency Operations Center will be activated on Sunday morning with staff from multiple State agencies coordinating emergency response activities throughout the duration of the weather event and its aftermath. The New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services' Office of Fire Prevention and Control also activated its Fire Operations Center to coordinate requests for assistance and deployment of fire service assets via the State Fire Mobilization and Mutual Aid Plan.

Governor Cuomo also urged outdoor enthusiasts in the lower Hudson Valley, New York City, and Long Island regions to use caution this weekend and strongly reconsider visiting state parks and beaches with the approach of Hurricane Henri.

OFPC and State agencies, including Department of Environmental Conservation, New York State Police, and Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation are preparing to deploy water rescue teams to the Hudson Valley. New York Task Force-2, a water rescue capable Urban Search and Rescue team, is also being deployed to Long Island in advance of Hurricane Henri.

Agency Preparations

Department of Transportation

The State Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with more than 3,200 supervisors and operators available statewide. To support storm response activities in critical areas, three signal bucket trucks, one vacuum truck with sewer jet, four loader-grapple attachments, and four chippers are being deployed to Long Island. 60 out-of-region traffic signal crew members will also be deployed to Long Island on Saturday.

A total of 125 generators with extended fuel capabilities are being deployed to the Mid-Hudson region and Long Island to bolster existing inventories.  The need for additional resource deployments will be continually evaluated throughout the event.

Currently, regional crews are engaged in rain/flood/tree debris response preparations, including: 

  • Drainage inlets, culverts and other drainage structures are being inspected and cleared of accumulated debris.  Inspections will continue throughout the event.
  • Routine patrols will be conducted to maintain awareness of general conditions.
  • Flood/debris response tools (generators, pumps, chainsaws, light plants, chippers, grapples, hand tools, etc.) are being readied for immediate dispatch.

All available rain/flood/wind response equipment is ready to deploy. Statewide equipment numbers are as follows:

  • 1329 large dump trucks
  • 51 loader-grapple attachments
  • 294 loaders
  • 14 vac trucks w/sewer jet
  • 34 tracked excavators
  • 43 wheeled excavators
  • 56 tractor trailers w/ lowboy trailer
  • 11 tree crew bucket trucks
  • 36 traffic signal trucks
  • 6 water pumps (4-6 inch)
  • 73 chippers 10" (min) capacity

All affected residency locations will be staffed for 24/7 operations throughout the duration of the event.  Mechanic support will be available 24/7 to keep response equipment operational. Flood/debris quick-response crews will be pre-staged in the Long Island and Mid-Hudson regions overnight Saturday to perform immediate response to any needs that arise.  

Thruway Authority

Thruway Authority staff are proactively inspecting and clearing drainage systems and performing general maintenance on equipment to respond to potential flooding. Staff are prepared to respond to any flooding issues statewide with more than 664 operators and supervisors, small to medium sized excavators, plow/dump trucks, large loaders and a number of portable VMS boards, portable light towers, smaller generators, smaller pumps and equipment hauling trailers, as well as signage and other traffic control devices available for any detours or closures.

The Thruway Authority encourages motorists to download its mobile app which is available to download for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to live traffic cameras, real-time traffic information and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway, follow @ThruwayTraffic on Twitter, and visit thruway.ny.gov to see an interactive map showing traffic conditions for the Thruway and other New York State roadways.

New York State Police

State Police swiftwater teams consist of two airboats and two rigid hull inflatable boats, along with two teams of trained troopers available on 12-hour shifts. The teams are coordinated by OFPC who will determine where assets will be staged.

The New York State Police has instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and closely monitor conditions for any problems. Additional personnel will be deployed to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles and all specialty vehicles, including Utility Terrain Vehicles, are in-service.

Department of Environmental Conservation

DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets, including swiftwater rescue teams and sawyers, are positioned to assist with any emergency response. 

Department of Public Service

New York's utilities have approximately 5,500 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response, and restoration efforts across the State. Department of Public Service staff will track the utilities' work throughout the storm event and will ensure utilities shift the appropriate staffing to the regions anticipated to be impacted the most.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts. Park visitors should check the parks website here or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

New York Power Authority / Canal Corporation

The New York Power Authority and the Canal Corporation have secured and prepared assets and are currently monitoring forecasts and conditions. The Power Authority is ready to support power restoration activities if needed.

Metropolitan Transportation Authority

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority is taking all necessary precautions to protect its transportation network and deliver safe service. MTA agencies are working closely together, coordinating with local partners to develop precautionary plans should service be impacted. The MTA is deploying additional personnel and prepositioning essential backup equipment across the commuter railroads, subways, and agency's bridges and tunnels. The Long Island Rail Road is proactively tackling items such as overgrown trees, utility poles, drainage and switches that significant weather events typically affect to mitigate impacts. On the subway, maintenance personnel will inspect track drains in flood-prone areas, and check and stage track pumps and storm boxes prior to the storms. The MTA encourages customers to take extra precautions when traveling during heavy rain and winds. This includes allowing for extra travel time, taking extra caution when walking on platforms and stairs, watching for slippery conditions and being mindful for overhead foliage or wires.

Port Authority

The Port Authority's Office of Emergency Management is monitoring weather conditions throughout today and into Sunday, when heavy rain and wind is anticipated in the Port District. Passengers using Port Authority airports are encouraged to contact carriers and airlines in advance directly for current information on any potential delays and cancelations. Drivers using agency bridges and tunnels are asked to seek updated information on the Port Authority website and via travel alerts in the event of reduced speed limits on bridges due to high winds or potential flooding. For the latest information about Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA alerts, or download one of the PA mobile apps.

Canal Corporation

In preparation for potential impacts from Tropical Storm Henri, the New York State Canal Corporation will preemptively lift its movable dams along the Erie Canal and Mohawk River between Lock E-8 in Rotterdam and Lock E-15 in Fort Plain. The initial lowering of water levels throughout this area will begin overnight with the lifting of the movable dams commencing at 7:00 am Sunday, August 22, 2021.

By lifting the movable dams out of the water, water levels within the Erie Canal and Mohawk River will be significantly reduced to near winter levels, which could result in grounding of any vessels left unattended. Residents and mariners are encouraged to take appropriate actions regarding any vessels, docks, or other seasonal structures in these areas which may be impacted or damaged by the significantly reduced water levels.

Lifting the movable dams out of the water is a necessary action to mitigate the risk of flooding in this area.

For mariners seeking safe harbor, the Waterford Flight, Locks E-2 - E-6, will be available for any vessels arriving by 5:00 pm this afternoon. 

In addition, the Canal Corporation is taking preemptive measures to create additional storage capacity in both Hinckley and Delta Reservoirs in anticipation of precipitation from Tropical Storm Henri. The release of water will not result in any flooding in areas east of the reservoirs. Excess flows from precipitation earlier in the week, that impacted the areas of Utica and Rome, has had the opportunity to recede.

The Canal Corporation will continue to monitor the path of the storm and will update the public accordingly through additional Notice to Mariners alerts. Members of the public may sign-up to receive these notices here.

Safety Tips

If traveling during heavy rain, please drive with care and keep these safety tips in mind:

  • DO NOT attempt to drive over a flooded road. Turn around and go another way.
  • DO NOT underestimate the destructive power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car. Water moving at two miles per hour can sweep cars off a road or bridge.
  • Leave early to avoid being marooned on flooded roads.
  • Follow recommended routes. DO NOT ignore emergency detours to view flooded areas.
  • As you travel, monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local radio broadcasts for the latest information.
  • Watch for washed-out roads, earth-slides, broken water or sewer mains, looseor downed electrical wires, and falling or fallen objects.
  • Watch for areas where rivers or streams may suddenly rise and flood, such as highway dips, bridges, and low areas.
  • If you are in your car and water begins to rise rapidly around you, abandon the vehicle immediately.

Prepare for flooding and severe weather:

  • Know the county in which you live and the names of nearby cities. Severe weather warnings are issued on a county basis.
  • Learn the safest route from your home or business to high, safe ground should you have to leave in a hurry.
  • Develop and practice a 'family escape' plan and identify a meeting place if family members become separated.
  • Make an itemized list of all valuables including furnishings, clothing and other personal property. Keep the list in a safe place.
  • Stockpile emergency supplies of canned food, medicine and first aid supplies and drinking water. Store drinking water in clean, closed containers
  • Plan what to do with your pets.
  • Have a portable radio, flashlights, extra batteries and emergency cooking equipment available.
  • Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel for several days. Have a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car.
  • Find out how many feet your property is above and below possible flood levels. When predicted flood levels are broadcast, you can determine if you may be flooded.
  • Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber handy for emergency waterproofing.
  • Have disaster supplies on hand, including:
    • Flashlight and extra batteries
    • Battery-operated radio and extra batteries
    • First aid kit and manual
    • Emergency food and water
    • Non-electric can opener
    • Essential medicines
    • Checkbook, cash, credit cards, ATM cards

If experiencing a power outage:  

  • Turn off or disconnect major appliances and other equipment, e.g., computers, in case of a momentary power surge that can damage these devices. Keep one light turned on so you know when power returns. Consider using surge protectors wherever you use electronic equipment.
  • Call your utility provider to notify them of the outage and listen to local broadcasts for official information. For a list of utilities in NYS visit the New York State Department of Public Service.
  • Use only flashlights for emergency lighting - candles pose the risk of fire.
  • Keep refrigerators and freezer doors closed - most food requiring refrigeration can be kept safely in a closed refrigerator for several hours. An unopened refrigerator will keep food cold for approximately four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
  • Do not use a charcoal grill indoors and do not use a gas stove for heat - they could give off harmful levels of carbon monoxide.
  • If you are in a tall building, take the stairs and move to the lowest level of the building. If trapped in an elevator, wait for assistance. Do not attempt to force the doors open. Remain patient - there is plenty of air and the interior of the elevator is designed for passenger safety.
  • Remember to provide fresh, cool water for your pets.
  • Eliminate unnecessary travel, especially by car. Traffic signals will stop working during an outage, creating traffic congestion and dangerous driving conditions. If you must drive during a blackout, remember to obey the 4-way stop rule at intersections with non-functioning traffic signals.
  • Remember that equipment such as automated teller machines and elevators may not be working.

For more safety tips, visit the DHSES website here

Attorney General James Takes 98 Guns Off the Streets at Utica Gun Buyback

 

AG James Has Taken Nearly 2,100 Firearms Out of Communities Since 2019

 New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that 98 firearms were turned in to law enforcement at a gun buyback event hosted by her office and the Utica Police Department. The Office of the Attorney General (OAG) accepts — with no questions asked — working and non-working, unloaded firearms in exchange for compensation on site. To date, Attorney General James has taken nearly 2,100 firearms out of communities through gun buyback events and other efforts since taking office in 2019.

“Gun violence continues to devastate our neighborhoods and endanger the welfare of our communities,” said Attorney General James. “From taking down violent drug rings fueling this crisis to hosting gun buybacks and supporting organizations committed to curbing this violence — we are taking every step possible to stop this violence and protect our families from harm. My office remains committed to ensuring that New Yorkers are safe, and we thank our partners in law enforcement for their shared commitment in this effort.”

Utica GBB 1
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Today’s community gun buyback resulted in 98 guns being collected, including 53 handguns, 29 shotguns and rifles, 15 non-working or antique guns, and an assault rifle. Since 2013, OAG has hosted gun buyback events throughout New York state and has successfully collected more than 4,000 firearms.

In exchange for the firearms, OAG also offered monetary compensation, in the form of prepaid gift cards, and Apple iPads when an unloaded gun was received and secured by an officer on site.

“The gun buyback program is an innovative way residents can responsibly and safely dispose of unwanted firearms,” said Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri. “I commend Attorney General James for coordinating this initiative as the city of Utica and our Police Department are supportive of this effort.”

Gun violence is a public health crisis that is plaguing communities throughout New York, and today’s event is the latest action that Attorney General James has taken to combat this crisis and protect New Yorkers from harm. This year alone, Attorney General James has held 11 gun buybacks across the state, and has also secured dozens of dangerous firearms through takedowns of violent groups terrorizing New York. Last month, Attorney General James announced the takedown of two major drug trafficking rings in Central New York, in which 15 guns, including nine ghost guns, were seized. To date, Attorney General James has taken a total of nearly 2,100 guns out of communities since 2019.

Bronx Dems - Save the Date: Annual BBQ & Softball Game


Bronx Dems 

Save the Date
We're excited to announce our annual BBQ and Softball Game 
will take place on Sunday, September 12th from 1pm - 5pm.
Join us at the Co-op City Little League Field, Co-op City
Boulevard, Between Bellamy Loop & Carver Loop, The Bronx,
NY 10475 for food, softball, music, games, and more.


Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress During COVID-19 Pandemic - AUGUST 20, 2021

 

56,103 Vaccine Doses Administered Over Last 24 Hours

17 COVID-19 Deaths Statewide Yesterday 


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

"The vaccine is the best weapon we have in our fight against COVID - it's proven effective, easily accessible and entirely free," Governor Cuomo said. "As the Delta variant continues to sweep across the nation, it is more important than ever to get your shot. Getting your vaccine is the best way to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. If you haven't already, get vaccinated as soon as possible."  
  
Today's data is summarized briefly below:

  • Test Results Reported - 162,820 
  • Total Positive - 4,832 
  • Percent Positive - 2.97% 
  • 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 3.13% 
  • Patient Hospitalization - 1,934 (-3) 
  • Patients Newly Admitted - 270 
  • Patients in ICU - 401 (+10) 
  • Patients in ICU with Intubation - 175 (+6) 
  • Total Discharges - 190,120 (+266) 
  • Deaths - 17 
  • Total Deaths - 43,335 
  • Total vaccine doses administered - 23,132,953 
  • Total vaccine doses administered over past 24 hours - 56,103 
  • Total vaccine doses administered over past 7 days - 321,240 
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose - 75.3% 
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series - 68.6%
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 78.1%
  • Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 70.3%
  • Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose - 63.4% 
  • Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series - 57.3%
  • Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 65.8%
  • Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 58.8%