Sunday, January 16, 2022

HAC-US January Newsletter: News, Updates, and Opportunities!

 

We Are Excited About What Lies Ahead!
As we think back over 2021, YOU immediately come to mind and the many amazing supporters and donors who partner with us to make a positive lasting impact on the US & Haiti. THANK YOU to everyone who donates their time, money and resources to strengthen our country, one life at at time! Happy New Year from HAC Global!
Through partnerships like the one with Soles4souls, we continue to provide business training and mentorship for young Haitian entrepreneurs of tomorrow! hachaiti.org
Commemorating the 12th Anniversary of the Haiti Earthquake
Twelve years ago, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake dared to destroy everything – our land, our families, our spirits. Long before our tears were dried, we knew that we had to take action. We were the sole ones responsible for our fate and recovery. 

We will never forget the thousands killed, injured, and still struggling in the aftermath of this crisis. 

Amid the utter desolation, the Haitian American Caucus began creating pathways to help support the families struggling to cope with the life-altering events and consequences. Three brothers stood at the helm of a new organization that would reimagine the sustainability and the future of Haiti. 

Today, their vision is paired with nurturing the next generation of scholars and professionals in order to shift the paradigm and create better outcomes.

Our collective work, as ONE Haiti, ONE Diaspora, will continue until we see our beloved island replenished.
Anniversary of the Jan. 6th Capitol Riot
In the wake of the horrifying display that took place at the capitol as well as in many other cities across the country a year ago, it is imperative that we reflect on what happened and realize how much work still remains for us in this country. Attempts to decertify a lawful election, backed by the sitting President, are a stain on democracy and the nation.

As we go forward, it is vital that we understand the forces that promote such acts and take action against them in our homes, places of work and on the streets. White supremacy and authoritarian rule have no place in this society, but we can stand against them by refusing to be silent.

We encourage all Americans to defend democracy by acting on behalf of those most marginalized among us. We ask that you join us in the fight to bring equity and opportunity to Haiti and Haitian Americans. We ask that you take action and never stop acting.

L’Union Fait La Force!
January is Birth Defects Prevention Month
Watch The Throwback: Navigating Pregnancy During A Pandemic
Haitian Independence (1804-2022) Dish Awarded Protected Status by Unesco
Culture in a bowl: Haiti's joumou soup awarded protected ...

Haiti's joumou soup, a symbol of hope and dignity for the world's first black-led republic, has been awarded protected status by Unesco. The soup, made from turban squash and originally cooked by enslaved African people for their owners in Haiti, ...

Read more
www.theguardian.com
Holly Jolly Holiday Fundraiser
"We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give." ― Winston Churchill

Thank You! We can do so much more because of you.
MLK NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE
Martin Luther King Day is the only federal holiday designated as a national day of service to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. Making time to volunteer for MLK Day of Service is a great way to engage with your community while honoring the legacy of Dr. King. Whether you plan on cleaning up a public space, mentoring a young person, or assisting those who are food insecure, what you do makes a world of difference.

Some Additional Ways to Get Involved:








Join the NYC Test and Trace Corps for special #MLKweekend Days of Actions at your local house of worship and receive a free COVID-19 vaccine or test at no cost!

More info
HAC MLK DAY
Monday, January 17, 2022 / 10am-12pm
The Haitian American Caucus, a global community development nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide Haitian communities around the world with access to information and resources that will foster self-development and success, is hosting a community discussion on what Dr. King's legacy means to the black women, black men and the youth today, on Monday, January 17 from 10:00a.m. – 12:00p.m. ET

Keynote Speakers
Kevin S. Parker
NYS Senator (SD21)
Farah N. Louis
NYC Council Member (D45)
Francois O. Jeanty
JCRCNY
Special Guest
Dominic Dupont
Activist | Public Speaker
Dupont is the nephew of the late great Michael K. Williams
Men's Panel Moderators
Samuel M. Pierre
HAC US, Executive Director
Josue Pierre
District Leader, AD 42
Panelist: Dr. James Pierre-Glaude, Rashidi Denson, & Justin Manning
Women's Panel Moderators
Adero Harrison
HAC US, Chief of Staff
Martha Ayon
HAC Volunteer
Panelist: Martha Ayon, Rona Taylor, & Judith Pierre
Youth Panel Moderators

Nadia Aristide
Maroon Strategist, CFO

Webinar: "Bronx Metro-North: An Opportunity for Jobs"

 

Webinar: "New Bronx Metro-North: An Opportunity for Jobs"
 

Join the Bronx Chamber of Commerce and the NYC Department of City Planning for a webinar on the future of Bronx Metro-North service and what the City is doing to ensure new transit supports Bronx residents with access to jobs, housing, amenities, and more.  

When?
January 26th, 2022 @ 10:00 AM

Where?
Virtually. Register at Bronxchamber.org/events

 

 
Register for Webinar Here
Article:
Read here to learn more about about Mayor Adams' vision for workforce development and jobs growth in New York City:
Article: "An Unprecedented Job Program"
Questions about the study?
To speak directly with planning staff, please sign up for our remote office hours by clicking below. Office hours are held every Thursday morning from 9 to 10 am and can be booked three weeks in advance.
BMNS Office Hours Bookings
To read more about the draft plan, visit our Draft Plan overview to watch our station-area overview videos and to read our draft recommendations and more by clicking below.
 
Building the Draft Plan
                               

                                          

Permits Filed For 120 East 144th Street In Mott Haven, The Bronx

 

120 East 144th Street in Mott Haven, The Bronx

Permits have been filed for a 13-story residential building at 120 East 144th Street in Mott Haven, The Bronx. Located between Walton and Gerard Avenues, the interior lot is one block from the 149 Street – Grand Concourse subway station, serviced by the 2, 4, and 5 trains. Besyata Investment Group is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 140-foot-tall development will yield 306,893 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 470 residences, most likely rentals based on the average unit scope of 652 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have a cellar, a 96-foot-long rear yard, and 155 enclosed parking spaces.

S. Wieder Architect is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits have not been filed yet for the warehouse on the site. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

Saturday, January 15, 2022

FORWARDING: WEATHER ADVISORY - DEPARTMENT OF BUILDINGS ADVISES PROPERTY OWNERS, CONTRACTORS, & CRANE OPERATORS TO TAKE PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES DURING RAIN AND HIGH WINDS

 

The New York City area may experience severe weather, including potential intermittent wind gusts of up to 50 MPH, starting this morning, January 14th, and continuing into Monday, January 17th. Accordingly, DOB is reminding all builders, contractors, crane operators, and property owners to secure their construction sites, buildings, and equipment.

The Department will be performing random spot-check inspections of construction sites around the city. If sites are not secured, the Department will take immediate enforcement action -- issuing violations and Stop Work Orders, where necessary.

Winds may reach higher speeds and last longer than forecast in certain areas of the city. Property owners must consider the safety of their buildings and construction sites, including cranes, suspended and supported scaffolding, hoists, and any other building appurtenances that may come loose from exposure to high winds. Structures that have been subject to deferred maintenance or are in delicate condition could be at greater risk. The Department suggests consulting a professional to advise how to secure construction sites and buildings.

To safeguard construction sites, builders, contractors, and developers should take all precautionary measures including but not limited to the following:

·         Tie down and secure material and loose debris at construction sites.

·         Cover electrical equipment from exposure to the weather.

·         Store loose tools, oil cans, and extra fuses in a toolbox.

·         Secure netting, scaffolding, and sidewalk sheds.

·         Suspend crane operations and secure crane equipment when wind speeds reach 30 mph or greater.

·         Suspend hoist operations and secure exterior hoists when wind speeds reach 35 mph or greater unless manufacturer specifications state otherwise.

·         Brace and secure construction fences.

·         Call 911 if there is an emergency on a construction site.

Buildings Bulletin 2015-029 outlines the requirements for vertical netting, debris netting and material-fall protection devices at buildings and construction sites.

To secure a building, property owners should take all precautionary measures including but not limited to the following:

 

·         Bring inside loose, lightweight objects such as lawn furniture, potted plants, garbage cans, garden tools, and toys.

·         Anchor objects that would be unsafe outside, such as gas grills or propane tanks.

·         Close up and secure patio umbrellas.

·         Secure retractable awnings.

·         Remove aerial antennas and satellite television dishes.

·         Take down tents or follow manufacturer’s instructions to secure them.

·         Check to ensure all gutters, roof drains, and down spouts are cleared of debris to allow for proper drainage.

New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 to report non-compliant conditions or 911 to report emergencies at construction sites or buildings. New Yorkers who suspect a building or property has been structurally compromised should call 911.

Under §28-301.1 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York, property owners are legally obligated to maintain their properties in a safe condition.

Department weather advisories are strictly a courtesy to remind property owners to prepare their properties for severe weather and cannot be read to suggest that the Department, rather than the property owner, is responsible for maintaining his or her property.


NYGOP Selects Nassau County to Host its 2022 Statewide Nominating Convention February 28th - March 1st

 

NYGOP Chairman Langworthy: We are Putting Together the Strongest Statewide Ticket Since 1994 That Will Restore Opportunity, Safety & Common Sense to New York

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“This convention will put a huge spotlight on how we plan to replicate Nassau’s victories statewide.”


 New York Republican Chairman Nick Langworthy today announced he has selected the Nassau Republican Party as its host for the 2022 statewide nominating convention that will be held February 28th-March 1st. 


Republican county chairs, committee members and grassroots activists from across the state will gather at the Garden City Hotel for the purposes of nominating candidates for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, and U.S. Senate. In addition to conducting official party business, the two-day affair will also feature social gatherings,  presentations led by the Nassau GOP host committee and remarks from local elected officials. 


Nassau County is home to a historic Republican resurgence where the Nassau GOP, led by Chairman Joe Cairo, orchestrated sweeping victories in last November’s local elections. Republicans took control of all countywide offices, ousting a sitting Democrat county executive, electing the first Republican district attorney in nearly four decades and electing a new Republican comptroller. Republicans also increased their majority in the county legislature and won key town and council seats. Winning this key suburban county is essential for any statewide candidate. 


“There is incredible energy and enthusiasm for this year’s convention, where we will officially kick off the 2022 election cycle and our mission to save New York State,” said New York Republican Chairman Nick Langworthy. “Everything we have been working toward has been to build the strongest ticket since 1994 that will restore opportunity, safety and common sense to our state. Voters are ready for change and we are going to offer them the solutions that will appeal to New Yorkers from every walk of life and political affiliation.” 


Chairman Langworthy continued, “There is no better place to host our convention than Nassau County. They sent shockwaves around the state last November with their tremendous Republican victories and their historic success is proof that our Republican message is resonating with a broad swath of voters. I’m thrilled that Chairman Cairo has agreed to host us. He is the ultimate strategist who is a key part of our team helping to lead our candidates to victory. This convention will put a huge spotlight on how we plan to replicate Nassau’s victories statewide.”


“I want to thank Chairman Langworthy for selecting Long Island as the site for the state Republican Nominating Convention,” said Joseph G. Cairo, Jr., Chairman of the Nassau County Republican Committee.  “We enjoyed some great victories in 2021, sweeping the countywide elective offices, increasing our majority in the Nassau Legislature, taking back townwide offices and council seats in North Hempstead, dominating in the towns of Oyster Bay and Hempstead, as well as winning convincingly in the city of Glen Cove.  I think that Long Island is a great place to host the state convention.”


NYS Office of the Comptroller DiNAPOLI: STATE ENDS THIRD QUARTER OF STATE FISCAL YEAR ON SOLID FINANCIAL FOOTING

 

 Tax receipts for the first nine months of State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2021-22 continue to exceed projections, totaling $84.4 billion. This amount is significantly higher than the most recent forecast by the Division of the Budget contained in the Mid-Year Update to the Financial Plan. While tax collections have exceeded forecast throughout the current fiscal year, December results are also affected by a newly established tax structure, the Pass Through Entity Tax (PTET). The PTET allows certain taxpayers to make state business tax payments that are deductible from federal taxes, rather than making state income tax payments that are not deductible from federal taxes. 

Tax receipts exceeded the latest Financial Plan forecast by $12.9 billion over the first nine months of  SFY  2021-22, according to the monthly state Cash Report released by New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. This includes the $10.2 billion collected from the PTET. However, taxpayers that remit PTET payments are expected to reduce their Personal Income Tax (PIT) payments by similar amounts. Since December results may not yet reflect these offsetting reductions to PIT receipts, they should be considered with a significant measure of caution during this transition period.

“Tax collections performed well in December, and the state’s economy and finances continue their recovery,” DiNapoli said. “But there is continuing uncertainty about the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 surge, economic risks, and the need for continuing financial support for those still struggling to find their footing. Also, December tax receipts were heavily influenced by the new tax structure created to mitigate the damaging impact of the 2017 federal cap on State and Local Taxes, which clouds our revenue picture during this transition period. As we begin the new budget season, I urge the Executive and the Legislature to proceed with caution.”

PIT receipts totaled $49 billion and continued to exceed Financial Plan expectations ($1.9 billion over most recent projections and $7.1 billion over initial projections) and to show year-over-year growth ($12.2 billion year to date). Withholding collections totaled $34.7 billion, 18.8% higher than last year, benefitting from an extra withholding day, as well as the continued benefit of increased tax rates.

Year-to-date, consumption and use tax collections totaled $14.8 billion, 23.1% or $2.8 billion higher than the same period last year, and $386.2 million higher than anticipated in the latest projections but $1.1 billion higher than initially anticipated. 

Business taxes totaled $18.3 billion, including $10.2 billion from the PTET. Excluding this new revenue source, business taxes were just under $2 billion higher than last year for the same period and $217.7 million higher than latest projections and nearly $1.5 billion higher than initially projected.

All Funds spending through December 31 totaled just under $141.5 billion, which was $14.3 billion, or 11.2%, higher than last year for the same period, primarily due to higher Medicaid and education costs. All Funds spending through the first three quarters was nearly $4.5 billion lower than the latest projections, and $5.9 billion lower than enacted projections, primarily due to lower than anticipated spending from the General Fund and federal funds. State Operating Funds spending totaled $73.9 billion, $10 billion, or 15.7% higher than last year and $1.7 billion lower than the latest projections. 

The state’s General Fund ended the third quarter with a balance of $30.7 billion, $15.2 billion higher than the latest projections and $14.1 billion higher than last year at the same time primarily due to the PTET, as well as higher than anticipated tax collections and lower than anticipated spending.

Report

December Cash Report

Related Report

Enacted Budget Financial Plan Report, State Fiscal Year 2021-22