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(Friday) Extra, Extra Click here for this week's video: 2022 Bronx Chamber Gala Thank You NYC Districting Commission Vote Asylum Seekers Housing Update Coffee & Conversation Series Legislative & Advocacy Updates One Stop Shop NYC Portal Open Dining Lawsuit Bruckner Blvd Rezoning Funding Opportunities NYS SEED Program for Early-Stage Businesses Upcoming Events Autumn Soiree Networking Event at Woodlawn Cemetery & Conservancy

2022 BRONX CHAMBER GALA - THANK YOU

On behalf of the Board of Directors and leadership team at The Bronx Chamber of Commerce, thank you for attending the 2022 Gala: Celebrating Our Members on Thursday, September 29, 2022 at Marina Del Rey. The evening was a historic success! Not only in celebrating the stellar accomplishments and leadership of Joseph Kelleher, John Collazzi, and the New York Yankees, but also in the record setting number of attendees, top tier entertainment, and the formation of the Bronx Champions Circle.  The Bronx Champions Circle, created with support from founding investors Simone Development and The New York Yankees, provides long term, strategic, and sustainable financial support for The Bronx Chamber of Commerce. More details on the Bronx Champions Circle will be announced during the Tuesday, October 25, 2022 Chairman's Reception. We again, thank you for your generous commitment to The Bronx Chamber of Commerce, and especially acknowledge, Simone Development, The New York Yankees, Metro Optics Eyewear, Third Avenue Business Improvement District, DJ Ambulette Services, Bronx Design Group, KZA Realty, Mercy College, Monroe College, Great Performances, RiteCheck Cashing, Amazon, Fresh Direct, Con Edison, The Woodlawn Cemetery & Conservancy, DoorDash, Lemle & Wolff, Ponce Bank, Montefiore Medical Center, and RXR. We also give our heartfelt thanks to our Board of Directors and the 2022 Gala Host Committee for their work to make the evening a great success. We appreciate the ongoing support of our members, businesses, donors, philanthropists, community leaders, and agency officials present throughout the evening. We recommit ourselves to our mission of serving Bronx businesses and charting a forward thinking economic development strategy for our borough and city. To see photos from the event, Click Here

NEW YORK CITY DISTRICTING COMMISSION UPDATE

On Thursday, the NYC Districting Commission voted to release a revised map to the New York City Council for its consideration. You may watch the public meeting vote here. The maps are available for viewing here. For additional information on the City Council redistricting process, please click here.  The New York City Districting Commission today voted to submit the 51 newly drawn City Council district maps to the City Council.   These maps were revised from the preliminary plan published by the Commission in July and a proposed revised plan in September that was not approved by the Commission. The maps represent a response to over 12,500 submissions offered by New Yorkers in person or via Zoom during more than 35 hours of public hearings; by email; and by regular mail. A new plan is drawn by the Districting Commission every ten years following the U.S. Census. The Commission is made up of 15 members appointed by the Mayor and the City Council. The Commission drew this plan following the requirements under the U.S. Constitution, the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA), state law, and the City Charter of New York. To reflect these major new population changes and bring the new districts in line with the new 5% deviation state law, the Revised Plan has a range of 168,560 to 177,204 persons(the previous law had a 10% permissible deviation.)  Now, the population in these Council Districts cannot deviate from a range of 5% deviation from 172,882, the ideal district population. The maps were revised from the preliminary plan, creating a Staten Island-Brooklyn “cross-over” in District 50, to more balance the other 48 districts in population, and five borough district allocations throughout the city.

ASYLUM SEEKERS HOUSING UPDATE ORCHARD BEACH SITE RELOCATED TO RANDALLS ISLAND

New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Monday evening, that the Orchard Beach relief center which was targeted to house up to a thousand asylum seekers will be moved to Randall’s Island in Manhattan. The announcement comes after a weekend of both protests and flooding at Orchard Beach, located in the Northeast Bronx, and further to the mayor’s earlier announcement on Sept. 22 of the construction of the Orchard Beach site. The Bronx Chamber of Commerce has and will continue to work with elected officials and agencies to manage the economic and workforce ramifications of asylum seekers.

COFFEE & CONVERSATION LAUNCHES MENIN, CINTRON, LUSSKIN, SALAMANCA, VELASQUEZ

The Coffee and Conversation series, presented by The Bronx Chamber of Commerce, brings together decision makers, influencers, and thought leaders shaping the economic future of the Bronx and highlights priorities identified by Bronx Chamber members. The program launched with Hon. Julie Menin, Chair of the NYC Council Committee on Small Business addressing business concerns, fines, small BID grant funding delays, and NYC Small Business Service Oversight. It has since included solution oriented approaches to financing with the US Small Business Administration, access to State resources with Empire State Development, and will continue with City, State, and Federal partners bringing direct services and resources to our members. This action packed hour-long, virtual webinar is something you can do from work, the gym, your office - and addresses the very specific needs of our business community. Make sure you check out the full schedule and register!

LEGISLATION & REGULATIONS

One Stop Shop NYC Portal A new bill passed unanimously by the City Council could help streamline the complicated process of opening and operating a small business in the city. Introduction 116-A, sponsored by Councilmember Julie Menin, requires the Department of Small Business Services to create an online portal that would include all permit and license applications and any other related information into a “one-stop shop” in ten different languages. The online portal would also allow business owners to track the status of their permit and license applications and business owners could settle or pay outstanding balances on violations. It would also require a survey of small businesses every three years to determine how the online portal is working effectively and what improvements could be made. The portal would have to be up and running by November 2023 and every year after, the NYC Department of Small Business Services commissioner would be required to consult with the commissioners of several different agencies to review the one-stop shop’s efficiency and effectiveness in facilitating assistance to small businesses, consider other additions that may be included in it, and implement updates and modifications.

Open Dining Program Update The Appellate Division of New York State Courts unanimously dismissed a lawsuit challenging the NYC outdoor dining program.    This ruling paves the way for legislation that will create a permanent and standardized outdoor dining program with updated guidelines that will support local businesses, employees, and countless others who love dining alfresco.    While there is not a definitive timeline of when a permanent program’s rules and regulations will be finalized and the current emergency program will end, the Bronx Chamber of Commerce will continue to work with Mayor Adams’ Administration, the City Council and other stakeholders, hopefully now at an accelerated pace to implement a new and permanent outdoor dining program that we imagine will take effect at some point over the next year, however it is impossible to be certain of that timeline. In the meantime, businesses may continue operating under the temporary emergency Open Restaurants program for now.   We understand the uncertainty of when the current emergency program will end and a new permanent program will begin makes it difficult for your business to plan for the future, but unfortunately that is the nature of the legislative and legal process.

Bruckner Blvd Rezoning Moves Forward to Full City Council Vote Key City Council committees on Thursday moved forward a proposal for a major rezoning of Bruckner Boulevard in the Bronx, a project supported by Mayor Eric Adams. The project passed the Subcommittee on Zoning and Franchise and the full Land Use Committee, with unanimous votes in favor of the rezoning.  Councilwoman Marjorie Velasquez, who represents the area of the proposed rezoning, backed the plan after previously opposing it. The project would create 349 housing units, with 168 of those units set aside as affordable housing, including for seniors and veterans. The four buildings would also include a youth community center and a new supermarket.

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

The New York State Seed Funding Grant Program was created to provide assistance to early-stage small businesses to succeed in a recovering New York State economy. Eligible Applicants must provide evidence, acceptable to New York State that the Eligible Applicant is operational and meets the Program requirements. As part of the application each micro-business, small business, or for-profit arts and cultural organization including independent arts contractors shall provide sufficient documentation in a manner prescribed by Empire State Development ("ESD") to demonstrate Program qualification. Only one grant per business EIN or SSN is allowed. Due to a limited amount of funding and the high volume of requests expected, business type, geography and industry may factor into ability to receive a grant. To apply, click here.

The $250 million COVID-19 Capital Costs Tax Credit Program provides financial assistance to New York State small businesses burdened with a range of operational costs stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, from structural changes and building upgrades to health-related supplies and materials. The Program offers qualifying businesses relief from the added economic burden by providing tax credits to help reduce the pandemic-related financial impact.    Small businesses can receive a tax credit of 50% of qualifying expenses up to a maximum of $25,000 in tax credits based on qualifying expenses of $50,000.  Click HERE for to apply

DEC ISSUES UPDATE ON STATEWIDE DROUGHT CONDITIONS

 

Drought Watch Lifted in Many Places, New Yorkers Encouraged to Continue Reducing Unnecessary Water Use

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today issued an update on drought conditions across the state. The State’s Drought Management Task Force updated the drought status to “Normal” from “Drought Watch” for multiple regions including most of upstate New York because of recent rainfall and higher levels of ground and surface water. Despite the encouraging hydrological conditions, all New Yorkers are urged to continue reducing unnecessary water waste, fixing leaks, and choosing efficient water fixtures. 

 

The following counties will return to Normal designations: Albany, Broome, Cayuga, Chautauqua, Chenango, Columbia, Cortland, Delaware, Erie, Fulton, Genesee, Greene, Herkimer, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Niagara, Onondaga, Oneida, Ontario, Orleans, Otsego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Seneca, Sullivan, Tioga, Tompkins, Washington, Wyoming, and Yates. 

 

The following counties will remain in Drought Watch designations due to ongoing precipitation deficits, unseasonably low streamflows, and groundwater declines: Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk, and Ulster. A watch is the first of four levels of State drought advisories, which are watch, warning, emergency, and disaster. No mandatory restrictions are in place under a state Drought Watch. A map of the counties under Drought Watch are available? here.

 

New York State drought region IIA, which includes New York City and Westchester, remains in normal status due to the satisfactory storage levels and refill probability of the New York City reservoirs.  

 

According to the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), the City's reservoirs are approximately eight percent below normal for this time of year, with 295 billion gallons currently in storage, compared to 332 billion gallons normally. DEC continues to work closely with DEP to monitor reservoir conditions and encourage responsible water use, especially outdoors, regardless of the hydrological conditions or season. 

 

To protect water resources, homeowners in regions under Drought Watch are encouraged to voluntarily reduce outdoor water use and follow these tips: 

·         Water lawns only when necessary, choose watering methods that avoid waste, and water in the early morning to reduce evaporation and maximize soil hydration; 

·         Reuse water collected in rain barrels, dehumidifiers, or air conditioners to water plants; 

·         Raise lawn mower cutting heights. Longer grass is healthier with stronger roots and needs less water; 

·         Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks; and 

·         Fix leaking pipes, hoses, and faucets. 

 

For more water saving tips, visit DEC's webpage at?http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5009.html. For more information about drought in New York, go to:?https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/5011.html 

 

Statewide Drought Conditions in 2022 

 

In August 2022, Governor Kathy Hochul directed DEC to expand the Drought Watch to additional regions across New York State due to below-normal precipitation during the prior three months, low stream flows and low groundwater levels. An increasing number of water supply challenges were reported due to dry conditions which prompted the need for the expansion of the watch status to ensure adequate public water supplies. Many of these water supply challenges have been temporarily resolved with the end of the outdoor water use season. New York State will continue to collaborate with water providers to reduce peak summer demand by promoting sensible solutions like pool cover usage, reduced lawn watering, and best practice landscaping. 

 

A Drought Watch can be triggered by the State Drought Index, which reflects precipitation levels, reservoir/lake levels, and stream flow and groundwater levels in the nine drought regions of the state. Each of these indicators is assigned a weighted value based on its significance to various uses in a region. The State Drought Index is attuned to the specific attributes of New York and may differ moderately from some national technical drought assessments. 

 

DEC and the U.S. Geological Survey are partners in evaluating hydrologic conditions across New York State. In addition, DEC supports efforts by local governments and stakeholders to undertake water conservation measures based on specific local circumstances.  

 

Wildfire Risk 

New York State continues to encourage New Yorkers and visitors to follow the recommendations below to reduce the risk of wildfires. While all of New York State is currently at low risk for fires (see map here:?https://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/68329.html) any outdoor fire can spread quickly, especially if the wind picks up. It is illegal to burn leaves anywhere in New York State. Brush of a certain size may be burned. See the burning regulations for details.

Campfires are among the top five causes of wildfires. While camping in the backcountry, New Yorkers are advised to: 

 

1.    Use existing campfire rings where possible; 

2.    Build campfires away from overhanging branches, steep slopes, rotten stumps, logs, dry grass, and leaves. Pile extra wood away from the fire; 

3.    Clear the area around the ring of leaves, twigs, and other flammable materials; 

4.    Never leave a campfire unattended. Even a small breeze could cause the fire to spread quickly; and 

5.    Drown the fire with water. Make sure all embers, coals, and sticks are wet. Move rocks as there may be burning embers underneath. 

 

NYCHCC - Save the Date - 17th Annual Hispanic Business Award Banquet & Scholarship Ceremony

 

The 17th Annual Hispanic Business Award Banquet and Scholarship Ceremony honors successful individuals who have proven their commitment to upholding the integrity of the Hispanic Community. These individuals advocate for economic development, higher education and promote initiatives that continue to empower the Latino community and beyond. Our mission is to represent and advocate for Hispanic Businesses in New York City in a cohesive and collective manner. The pride of our banquet has always been the scholarships awarded to students in need of financial assistance. Over the past 17 years the NYCHCC has awarded more than 180k to students who attend an accredited university in the New York City area.

Register Today

STATEMENT ON VILE AND SEXIST STORY BY THE NEW YORK POST

 

The following is a statement from Fabien Levy, press secretary to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, on a vile and sexist story released by The New York Post this afternoon referring to the personal relationships of Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Sheena Wright and New York City Department of Education (DOE) Senior Advisor to the Deputy Chancellor for School Leadership Tracey Collins:

 

“The New York Post and everyone associated with this story should be ashamed of themselves for suggesting that Deputy Mayor for Strategic Initiatives Sheena Wright — an Ivy League-educated, former major non-profit executive, who has a long career of groundbreaking accomplishments — was hired as some sort of favor, or in return for ‘sleeping’ with her long-term partner. This sexist rhetoric and vile insinuation are beyond the pale and have no place in public discourse.

 

“In addition, DOE Senior Advisor Tracey Collins is a veteran educator with more than 30 years of experience. There was a retirement in the Division of School Leadership this spring, and Tracey applied for the publicly posted, competitive position and went through a rigorous process that did not include City Hall’s oversight. DOE has made clear that she was, far and away, the most qualified of all applicants for the position, which is why she was the only finalist presented to Chancellor Banks. Once again, it is flat out sexist and vile to suggest an accomplished, highly trained, lifelong public servant was only given this position because of who her long-time partner may be.

 

“The New York Post owes both women an immediate apology.”

Governor Hochul Announces State Landmarks to be Illuminated Red Tonight in Honor of Light the Night for Fallen FirefightersThe GMMC bridge is lit red in honor of International Firefighters Day.

 

15 State Landmarks To Be Lit the Evening of Saturday, October 8

 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that 15 state landmarks will be illuminated red the evening of Saturday, October 8, in honor of Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters.

"Firefighters are courageous, selfless public servants and tonight we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in order to keep New Yorkers safe," Governor Hochul said. "We keep those who are no longer with us in our hearts and remind those who continue to serve that we will always support them in any and every way we can."

Landmarks that will be illuminated include:

• One World Trade Center
• Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
• The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
• State Education Building
• Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
• Empire State Plaza
• State Fairgrounds - Main Gate & Expo Center
• Niagara Falls
• The "Franklin D. Roosevelt" Mid-Hudson Bridge
• Grand Central Terminal - Pershing Square Viaduct
• Albany International Airport Gateway
• The Lake Placid Olympic Jumping Complex
• MTA LIRR - East End Gateway at Penn Station
• Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal

Speaker Adams, Civic Leaders, and School Community Celebrate Renaming of PS 48Q as The David N. Dinkins School for Community Service

 

Speaker Adrienne Adams joined school community leaders, local elected officials, parents, and students to celebrate the official renaming of PS 48Q as The David N. Dinkins School for Community Service. In 2021, the New York City Department of Education approved the renaming of PS 48Q after former Mayor Dinkins, the first African American Mayor of New York City. Led by Patricia Mitchell, who served as Principal of PS 48Q for 14 years, a group of school leaders, teachers, and parents agreed to honor Mayor Dinkins and his lifelong legacy of public service.  

The stated vision of The David N. Dinkins School for Community Service is to “build leaders who are well-rounded and apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills to solve community issues, leading scholars to become change agents in our ever-evolving global society.” By renaming the school in honor of former Mayor David N. Dinkins, the school community and students will strive to exemplify the legacy set by its namesake. 

“Mayor David N. Dinkins was a trailblazing, inspirational, and honorable leader in our city whose commitment to a more just and equitable world never wavered,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “He devoted his life to public service and improving the communities that make up the “Gorgeous Mosaic” that is New York City. By renaming PS 48Q in his honor, our community is uplifting Mayor Dinkins’ legacy and ensuring that the next generation of leaders will be inspired to serve their communities. I am grateful for the leadership of District 28 Superintendent Dr. Tammy Pate, Principal Joan Stanley-Duvernay, CEC 28 President Vijah Ramjattan, and former Principal Patricia Mitchell, whose vision and dedication made this historic day possible.” 

“Mayor David Dinkins was the kind of dedicated leader whose commitment to service will continue to inspire generations to come,” said Schools Chancellor David C. Banks. “His recognition of our great city as a ‘gorgeous mosaic’ is the lens through which we all ought to view the beauty of our differences, and use it as a catalyst for growth in our communities. It is an honor to help solidify his legacy within our great school system.” 

“We are so proud to celebrate the life and leadership of Mayor David N. Dinkins,” said Dr. Tammy Pate, Superintendent of Community School District 28. “It is incredibly important for all institutions, and especially educational institutions, to hold the history and legacy of leaders who, through work and advocacy, seek to improve the lives of all people. How great an added gift that his work has the opportunity to also fan the flame of public service in our scholars. The David N. Dinkins School for Community Service will uphold Mayor Dinkins’ legacy for generations to come.” 

“This marks a new beginnings for PS 48Q,” said Joan Stanley-Duvernay, Principal of PS 48Q. “The school now named The David N. Dinkins School for Community Service is positioned to impactfully improve the lives of the school community and the community at large. I am honored and humbled to be the principal of The David N. Dinkins School, and we will work to keep his legacy alive.” 

About Mayor David N. Dinkins 

David Norman Dinkins served as the 106th Mayor of the City of New York. He was elected as the city’s first African American Mayor and took office on January 1, 1990. Born in Trenton, New Jersey, Dinkins graduated from Trenton Central High School, Howard University, and Brooklyn Law School. A recipient of the Congressional Gold Medal, he served as a United States Marine during World War II. Prior to being elected Mayor, Dinkins served in the New York State Assembly in 1966 and later as the Manhattan Borough President from 1985 to 1989. During his tenure as Mayor, Dinkins created the Beacon Schools program, the Civilian Complaint Review Board, and the “Safe Streets, Safe City” plan. He was responsible for securing a 99-year deal with the USTA National Tennis Center, revitalizing Times Square, and rehabilitating housing in New York City. Mayor Dinkins passed away in November 2020.