Monday, August 19, 2024

News, updates and more from NYC Council Member Rafael Salamanca, Jr.

 

THE WEEK IN REVIEW

SALSA IN THE BRONX!
 
💃🏻 Salsa in the Bronx kicked off with a bang thanks to Brenda K Starr and Pete Nater Music!

Thank you to all the Bronxites who came out to laugh, sing, and dance with Team Salamanca, Freddy Perez Jr, and Acacia Network.

BACK TO SCHOOL AGAIN!
 
Huge shout out to NYC Council Member Amanda Farias and her team for organizing a successful back-to-school event for Bronx youth!

📚 With rising inflation costs extending to school supplies, many families are struggling with the financial burden of ensuring their kids are prepared for school

👉 I am proud to once again partner with my colleagues to help fill this gap by distributing free school supply kits and backpacks to our students.
HUNTS POINT PUBLIC LIBRARY WALKTHROUGH
 
📚 Did You Know: Officially registered as a historic landmark, the Hunts Point Public Library recently turned 92 years old, having been the final library built as part of the Carnegie endowment. 

👉 Awarded $32 million - $3.7 million of which I was able to secure from the New York City Council - the library has been renovated into a state-of-the-art hub for Bronxites to gather and enjoy creative pursuits 

I had the pleasure of joining Bronx Community Board 2 to get a sneak peak at those renovations &  ensured that its door would open back up to the Bronx community soon.


STEFANIE VISITS THE DISTRICT OFFICE!
 
It’s always a pleasure to meet my constituents, especially when it’s one of our bright Bronx students!

Thank you, Stefanie, for stopping by to visit my District Office, and thank you to Stefanie’s parents for instilling in her the importance of public service and local government.


STATEMENT ON NYC DEP’S NEW BRONX BOROUGH COMMISSIONER
 
My statement on the appointment of Eleftheria “Effie” Ardizzone as the New York City Department of Environmental Protection’s new Bronx Borough Commissioner. 


STATEMENT ON NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS/LINCOLN NEW CEO
 
My statement on NYC Health + Hospitals appointment of Cristina Contreras as the new CEO of Lincoln Hospital. 

UPCOMING EVENTS


We’re Back!
💃 Salsa Concert Series 2024
🎤 Orq Rosello
📍Al Quinones Playground (52 Playground - Beck Street & Avenue St. John)
📆 Wednesday, August 21, 2024
⏰ 7 PM


Visit our District Office at: 
1070 Southern Boulevard
Bronx, New York 10459
(718) 402-6130
salamanca@council.nyc.gov

MAN INDICTED ON ATTEMPTED MURDER CHARGES FOR STABBINGS ON SUBWAY PLATFORM AND GAS STATION IN OZONE PARK

 

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Feruz Radjabov was indicted by a grand jury and arraigned on two counts of attempted murder, assault and other crimes in the random stabbing of a driver pumping gas in Ozone Park and a man standing on the platform at a nearby subway station. The commuter was taken to the hospital in critical condition. Radjabov is also accused of assaulting a police officer.

District Attorney Katz said: “Two New Yorkers – a subway commuter and a motorist – were stabbed in completely unprovoked acts of violence allegedly by this defendant. The lives of these two men are forever changed after this senseless attack and my office will aggressively prosecute this case to ensure that justice in achieved. I thank the NYPD for quickly apprehending this defendant before anyone else was hurt.”

Radjabov, 40, who is undomiciled and whose last known address was on East 10th Street in Midwood, Brooklyn, was arraigned today while bedside at a local hospital on an indictment charging him with two counts of attempted murder in the second degree, attempted assault in the first degree, two counts of assault in the first degree,  two counts of assault in the second degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree and assault on a peace or police officer, a fireman or an EMS professional.

Acting Supreme Court Justice Edwin Novillo remanded the defendant and ordered him to return to court September 17.

If convicted of the top charges, Radjabov faces up to 65 years in prison.

According to the charges:

  • On August 7, at approximately 5:05 p.m., Radjabov walked up to a 25-year-old man, who was pumping gas at a gas station at 100-03 North Conduit Avenue in Ozone Park, and stabbed him in the left shoulder. He then fled.
  • A few minutes later, Radjabov was seen on the northbound platform of the nearby Aqueduct-North Conduit Avenue A train station. He approached a 67-year-old grandfather and stabbed him once in the neck.
  • Radjabov was then seen entering the subway tracks. He was apprehended from the Rockaway-bound tracks. A knife was recovered from his pocket.
  • Both victims were taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center where the 67-year-old underwent surgery to repair his trachea and jugular vein. He remains hospitalized. The 25-year-old was treated and discharged.
  • The defendant was taken to the 106th Precinct and while there struck an officer in the face with his head, causing a laceration to the officer’s lip and a chipped tooth.

Wave Hill Weekly Events: Sept 2-Sept 12 | Wave Hill is open on Labor Day Too!


Wave Hill will be open this Labor Day. Come enjoy a relaxing day in the gardens. In fact, we have planned a number of free events and special days at the garden throughout the fall, from yoga to nature design and meditation walks and many ways to escape to the beauty of the gardens for renewal during the months ahead.  

 

Family Art Project: Papery Partners 

Free with admission to the grounds  
Registration not required 
 

Have you ever heard the saying "scratch my back and I'll scratch yours"? That’s symbiosis! Layer paper shapes to create colorful scenes showing your favorite plant or animal symbiotic relationships. 

  

At 11:30AM, families can enjoy a storytime program in the Gund Theater, all ages welcome.  

 

Fall Birding 
$17; including admission to the grounds, Wave Hill Members save 10% 
Registration required 

 

Fall is peak migration time along the Hudson River, and we have a front row seat! Join naturalists and bird guides Gabriel Willow and Ryan Mandelbaum as you explore Wave Hill’s gardens, woodlands and the skies overhead to look for resident and migrating birds. A limited number of binoculars, monoculars and walking sticks are available to borrow at the Perkins Visitor Center. Birding walks are held the second Sunday of every month year-round. Ages 10 and older welcome with an adult. 

 

Yoga in the Garden 
$25; including admission to the grounds. Wave Hill Members save 10% 
Registration required 

 

Root your feet in the grass and look out upon the vistas as you enjoy a gentle yoga class led by Susie Caramanica (Sep 8 through Oct 6) and Pam Kelly (Oct 20, 27). All levels welcome. Continues through October.  

 

Members Only: Tour the Aquatic & Monocot Gardens with Gardener Christopher Bivens 
Free for members 
Registration not required 

 

Tropical plants flourish in the Aquatic and Monocot Gardens during the summertime. Alive with diversity, the hum of insects, the rustle of leaves and the antics of fish skimming the water's surface animate this garden area. Guided by Wave Hill gardener Christopher Bivens, explore the design of these two formal gardens, where neatly trimmed hedges and symmetrical pergolas provide a framework for lush grasses, tropical plants and exotic water lilies. Wear your favorite sunhat! 

 

Garden Highlights Walk 
Free with admission to the grounds 
Registration not required 

 

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. Public Garden Walks are most appropriate for adults or young adults. 

  

HOURS: 10AM–5:30PM, Tuesday–Sunday 
Shuttle Service Free from Subway and Metro-North, Thursday–Sunday 

Information at 718.549.3200. On the web at wavehill.org  

Weekly News from State Senator Gustavo Rivera!

 

GOVERNMENT HEADER

SENATOR RIVERA HOSTS 11TH ANNUAL BACK TO SCHOOL RESOURCE FAIR

On August 15th, Senator Gustavo Rivera hosted his 11th Annual Back to School Backpack Giveaway and Resource Fair at St. James Park.


Senator Rivera and his team distributed more than 600 free backpacks, school supplies and books to the children in attendance and connected their parents with a variety of resources and services from local community providers. Thank you to all of the sponsors who made this event possible!

Senator Rivera also hosted his second Pop-Up Event of the summer, distributing backpacks at Washington Park. When Lesandro "Junior" Guzman-Feliz was tragically murdered in 2018, youth groups pleaded with the Senator to make Washington Park a safe place for the youth of the Bronx. Senator Rivera is thrilled to have allocated $2 million to invest in the future of this neighborhood. To follow the progress of Washington Park's reconstruction, visit the NYC Parks website.

“I commend Governor Hochul for this significant investment into the next generation of health care workers. The Workforce Investment Organizations selected are dedicated partners that know the skills, education and career opportunities our state needs to address the critical workforce challenges our health care system is facing. Investing in our health care workforce pipeline is urgent and I look forward to this program's long-term benefits for the health of our communities and our health care delivery system overall,” said State Senator Gustavo Rivera.



Senator Rivera joined Governor Hochul for her announcement that 199SEIU Training and Employment Funds, Iroquois Healthcare Association, and the Finger Lakes Performing Provider System will receive awards totaling $646 million for the next three years to implement the Career Pathways Training (CPT) Program, which will recruit and train thousands of new health, mental health, and social care workers across New York. This program will also provide new career advancement opportunities to many current healthcare workers throughout the state.


SENATOR RIVERA ATTENDS 46TH PRECINCT NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

After the original National Night Out was shortened due to rain, Senator Rivera attended the 46th Precinct's rescheduled community block party. Senator Rivera joined colleagues, and neighbors for a day of fun and building community. Senator Rivera is pictured with Commanding Officer Jeremy Scheublin.

SENATOR RIVERA VISITS THE WALTON FAMILY HEALTH CENTER

Senator Rivera visited the Walton Family Health Center as he continues to celebrate National Health Center Week. Senator Rivera discussed the importance of community health centers in providing high-quality, comprehensive primary care services to all people regardless of ability to pay.

SENATOR RIVERA ATTENDS 3322 DECATUR AVE TENANT ASSOCIATION MEETING

Senator Rivera joined the Legal Aid Society and tenant organizers at 3322 Decatur Ave's second ever Tenants Association meeting. Senator Rivera talked to the organizers about the services his office can provide to assist with their issues with management. Senator Rivera also provided backpacks to families in the building. Thank you to TA President Madeline Olmeda for inviting the Senator. If you have any questions related to your housing, call Senator Rivera's office at 718-933-2034.

"Amidst the worst home care shortage in the nation and a silver wave approaching of elderly New Yorkers who will drastically increase the need for long term care services, we should be working on proposals like my Home Care Savings and Reinvestment Act to make our system more efficient," said Senator Gustavo Rivera.


Kate Lisa from Spectrum News covered the impact of the cuts to the CDPA program that were made in this year's budget. Providers have expressed that they fear that these cuts will force elderly and disabled New Yorkers into adult-care facilities. Instead of cuts to invaluable programs that keep New Yorkers in their homes and communities, like CDPAP, we could pass Senator Rivera's bill, the Home Care Savings and Reinvestment Act, to make our system more efficient while protecting much needed services.

Senator Rivera shares the community's concerns about public drug use and syringe litter near the Kingsbridge Underpass, Poe Park, and nearby hot spots. There are local harm reduction providers who clean up the needles safely and who connect with users to help them with recovery, medical care, and basic needs.


Our team created this schedule and contact informational sheet in collaboration with the harm reduction organizations serving the Northwest Bronx so that neighbors can contact them to assist with issues near Kingsbridge Road and the Grand Concourse. If you have any questions, please contact our office at 718-933-2034 or grivera@nysenate.gov

HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO SPRAY FOR MOSQUITOES IN THE BRONX TO REDUCE RISK OF WEST NILE VIRUS

To reduce mosquito activity and the risk of West Nile virus, the Health Department will conduct an adulticide treatment in Staten Island and the Bronx.

 

Trucks will spray pesticides in sections of Staten Island beginning on Monday, August 19, 2024, between the hours of 8:30 PM and 6:00 AM the following morning and in the Bronx on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 between the hours of 8:30 PM and 6:00 AM the following morning. In case of bad weather, application will be delayed until Tuesday, August 20, 2024, and Thursday, August 22, 2024, respectively, between the hours of 8:30 P.M. and 6:00 A.M. the following morning.

 

The Health Department will use very low concentrations of Anvil® 10+10, Duet® or MERUS® 3. The risks of pesticides applied by the Health Department for mosquito control are low to people and pets. Some people who are sensitive to spray ingredients may experience short-term eye or throat irritation, or a rash. People with respiratory conditions may also be affected.

 

To stay safe during spraying:

  • Stay indoors, whenever possible.
  • Air conditioners can remain on. While unnecessary, you may wish to close air conditioner vents, or choose the recirculate function.

 

After spraying:

  • Wash skin and clothing exposed to pesticides with soap and water.
  • Always wash fruits and vegetables with water.

 

The most effective way to control mosquitoes is to eliminate any standing water. New Yorkers are also encouraged to mosquito-proof their homes and take precautions when spending time outdoors.

 

Reducing exposure to mosquitoes

  • Use an approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus (not for children under 3), or products that contain the active ingredient IR3535.
  • Make sure windows have screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes.
  • Eliminate any standing water from your property and dispose of containers that can collect water. Standing water is a violation of the New York City Health Code.
  • Make sure roof gutters are clean and draining properly.
  • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty or covered if not in use. Drain water that collects in pool covers.

 

Report standing water by calling 311 or visiting nyc.gov/health/wnv. For more information about West Nile virus, call 311 or visit nyc.gov.

"I'm excited to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of NWBCCC, an organization that serves as a foundation for so many of our borough's most impactful leaders and organizers. NWBCCC is a powerful coalition that has driven change by amplifying the community's voices, holding leaders and institutions accountable, and fighting for the future of our Bronx," said State Senator Gustavo Rivera, 33rd District, The Bronx. "I am proud to stand with NWBCCC on so many of the justice campaigns they are working on, like passing the New York Health Act and transforming the Kingsbridge Armory into a community asset, and will continue working with them for many years to come."


Senator Rivera is excited to Co-Sponsor NWBCCC's 50th anniversary block party! Join him on August 23rd for a day of music, dancing, games, and much more!

DUE 9/12: 2025 SPECIAL PROJECTS FUND REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS IS NOW OPEN

The New York Health Foundation (NYHealth) 2025 Special Projects Fund Request for Proposals (RFP) is now open.

 

Special Projects Fund awards are one-time, nonrenewable funding opportunities available for organizations working to improve the health of New Yorkers, especially people of color and others who have been historically marginalized. Projects must address important and emerging health care and public health issues that fall outside NYHealth’s three priority areas:Primary Care; Healthy Food, Healthy Lives; and Veterans’ Health. NYHealth seeks to partner with a wide range of organizations implementing innovative projects that can improve health at the local, regional, or statewide levels.

 

Applicants must complete a letter of inquiry form (LOI) to determine whether a proposed project fits the funding criteria. LOIs are due on September 12, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. 

Selected organizations will then be invited to submit full proposals due on November 14, 2024, at 1:00 p.m.