Weekly News from State Senator Gustavo Rivera!

 

SENATOR RIVERA JOINS RALLY TO PROTECT HEALTH ACCESS FOR TRANSGENDER NEW YORKERS

Senator Rivera joined a rally to protect healthcare access for transgender New Yorkers who are facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the most slew of Executive Orders by the Trump administration.

In this year's budget, the Senator urged his colleagues and the Executive to work together and include a $50 million contingency fund to cover the federal share of Medicaid costs for gender-affirming care.

"My job as an ally is simple, I stand in the way because I will not let my sisters, my brothers or my siblings, continue to be attacked and dehumanized. I stand with you and I will continue to stand with you," said Senator Rivera

Thank you to Callen-Lorde Community Health Center for the invitation, to my colleagues and to all the organizations that stood by our trans community. Watch Senator Rivera's reel with his participation here.

Senator Rivera participated in the Healthcare Association of New York (HANYS) Annual Advocacy Day.

The Senator joined a panel alongside HANYS President, Bea Grause, the Chair of the Senate Insurance Committee, Jamaal Bailey, and the Chair of the Senate Higher Education Committee, Toby Ann Stavisky. They had a conversation around closing the Medicaid payment gap for hospitals and nursing homes, retaining existing levels of supportive funding and going further to help more providers, opposing any harmful policies or funding cuts, among others.

Senator Rivera talked about his New York Health Act and how with everyone's voices, we can fix our healthcare system and become a model for the rest of the country.

"I need ya’ll energy cause you all know better than most how much insurance companies really mess with you, with what you're trying to do every day, which is serve patients and keep them healthy," said Senator Rivera.

Thank you to President Grause for the invitation! Watch Senator Rivera's reel here.

Senator Rivera welcomed the New York State Health Facilities Association (NYSHFA) members for their lobby day in Albany.

"Nursing homes are always on my agenda. But they are losing capacity due to inadequate funding, creating congestion in hospitals and a crisis of care for consumers of all ages. In this budget, we must work together to provide them the support they rightfully need," said Senator Rivera.

RAMADAN KAREEM!

Ramadan Kareem to all the Muslim neighbors in my district and across New York State as they welcome today the Holy Month of Ramadan. At a time when we are seeing a rapid rise of Islamophobia, I wish that this time of such importance for our Muslim community is a peaceful and restorative time.

Senator Rivera's team participated in the inaugural meeting of the West Bronx Community Safety Partnership (WBCSP) at Morris Heights Health Center, hosted by Council Member Pierina Sanchez. Local elected officials and community advocates from Good Shepherd Services, Women's Housing and Economic Development Corporation (WHEDco), and the Jerome Avenue Revitalization Collaborative (JARC) were part of this initial gathering.

On December 17, 2024, Bronx elected officials including Senator Rivera sent a joint letter urging the Mayor and Governor for their support in tackling the rising rates of violence in the West Bronx. The letter emphasized that, despite citywide improvements in public safety, the West Bronx has trended in the opposite direction. This stark contrast is particularly evident when comparing rates of gun violence. While the city has seen improvements in shooting victims and incidents, several precincts in The Bronx have been reeling with both shooting victims and incidents on the rise. 

The partnership will draw upon existing efforts and resources, as well as proven interventions and techniques that address not only the present raging symptoms of violence, but just as importantly, its root causes. 

“From elected officials, to law enforcement, and grassroots organizations, we will collectively address violence in our communities by driving more investments towards successful programs such as Cure The Violence while creating new, innovative initiatives that will ultimately bring real safety to our neighbors," said Senator Rivera in the press release of the West Bronx Community Safety Partnership (WBCSP).

REMINDER: SENATOR RIVERA'S

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS PALM CARDS

Senator Rivera's team has created a Know Your Rights palm card (available in English and Spanish). Watch Senator Rivera's message here.

Remember, If your organization, or school would like to receive these cards, please fill out the form here and a staff member from our team will follow up to confirm your request.

If you are an individual constituent, call our office at 718-933-2034 or visit us at 2432 Grand Concourse, Suite 506, Monday through Thursday, from 10 am to 5 pm.

THURSDAY 03/20: JOIN SENATOR RIVERA'S SATELLITE OFFICE HOURS AT MT.CARMEL SENIOR CENTER

THE RIGHT TO COUNSEL COALITION & JUST FIX RELAUNCHED: "EVICTION FREE NYC"

How does Eviction Free NYC help? Eligibility Screener: Eviction Free NYC helps you learn if you’re eligible for a free lawyer under NYC’s Right to Counsel law. Step-By-Step Guide: We’ll walk you through where to go in housing court, what to expect, and what next steps to take. Connect to Community Support: Based on your zip code, we’ll provide you with information on how to contact a tenant organization in your area. For more info, click here

FROM 3/1 TO 3/23: #4 TRAIN SERVICE CHANGE

Due to track replacement, no 4 service between 161 St-Yankee Stadium and Woodlawn from March 1st to March 23rd, Sat 3:30 AM to Sun 10:00 PM. Number 4 trains will run between Brooklyn and 161 St-Yankee Stadium, the last stop.

Free shuttle buses run between Bedford Park Blvd D and Woodlawn, stopping at Mosholu Pkwy and Bedford Park Blvd-Lehman College.

Travel alternatives:

1. For service between 161 St-Yankee Stadium and Bedford Park Blvd-Lehman College, use nearby D stations along Grand Concourse instead.
2. For Mosholu Pkwy and Woodlawn, take a shuttle bus.

Transfer stations:

1. 161 St-Yankee Stadium 4 D
2. Bedford Park Blvd D| SHUTTLE BUS 

This service change affects one or more ADA accessible stations and these travel alternatives may not be fully accessible. Please contact 511 to plan your trip.

The MTA is seeking input on which stations to prioritize for accessibility improvements over the next five years. The proposed 2025-2029 Capital Plan identified an initial 30 stations, and the MTA plans to make at least an additional 30 stations accessible, for a total of more than 60 stations. With these investments, approximately 70% of all subway rides will take place to or from accessible stations. Check this link for more info and to share your input.

Reduced-Fare customers can now tap to pay with OMNY. With OMNY, you can: Pay 12 fares in seven days, and the rest of your rides for those seven days are free. Skip the vending machine and load your card online with a free OMNY account. Get the same free transfers you did with MetroCard. Find more info here and join the next MTA webinar to discuss the transition from MetroCard to OMNY, including how to spend down your MetroCard balances and utilize the new benefits of OMNY. Register here!

Resilient Roots: Ecofeminism in Video Performance at BRAC!

 

BRONX RIVER ART CENTER

Celebrating 37 Years of Bringing Arts & Cultural Programs to the Bronx

Opening Reception: March 6th, 6-8pm

Join us for "Resilient Roots: Ecofeminism in Video Performance," featuring video works by six prominent Latin American artists.

RSVP for Opening Reception

This exhibition explores the connection between ecofeminism and contemporary art through video performance. The works address themes of environmental justice, sustainability, and gender equality. The artists reveal the deep relationship between women and nature, critique patriarchal and exploitative systems, and invite us to consider more sustainable and equitable practices.

This exhibition amplifies Latin American women artists' voices in the global environmental conversation and creates space for dialogue about humanity's relationship with nature.

Curated by Alexandra Trujillo Tamayo.

Artists: Maya Ponce, Regina José Galindo, Alexia Miranda, Rocío Soria, Alexandra Moshenek, Tzitzi Barrantes 

We Appreciate Your Support!

Donate to BRAC!

Permits Filed for 1131 East 211th Street in Williamsbridge, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for a four-story residential building at 1131 East 211th Street in Williamsbridge, The Bronx. Located between Boston Road and Laconia Avenue, the lot is closest to the Gun Hill Road subway station, serviced by the 5 train. Etai Vardi of Blackstone Real Group LLC is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 50-foot-tall development will yield 7,002 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 12 residences, most likely rentals based on the average unit scope of 583 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have a 52-foot-long rear yard but no accessory parking.

Jakov Saric of Node Architecture, Engineering, Consulting PC is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits will likely not be needed as the lot is vacant. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

Permits Filed for 1095 Jerome Avenue in Highbridge, The Bronx

 

Permits have been filed for an 11-story residential building at 1095 Jerome Avenue in Highbridge, The Bronx. Located between Anderson Avenue and Shakespeare Avenue, the lot is near the 167th Street subway station, served by the 4 train. NYC Department of Housing Preservation & Development is listed as the owner behind the applications.

The proposed 112-foot-tall development will yield 49,119 square feet designated for residential space. The building will have 61 residences, with 18 units set aside for affordable senior housing. The average unit scope will be 805 square feet. The concrete-based structure will also have bicycle parking and a 40-foot-long rear yard.

Suzanna Tharian of Stat Architecture is listed as the architect of record.

Demolition permits have not been filed yet. An estimated completion date has not been announced.

DEC Reminds New Yorkers of Strategies to Avoid Coyote Conflicts

Sightings Expected to Increase as Spring Nears

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) encouraged New Yorkers to help do their part to prevent conflicts between people and coyotes. Coyotes are found in diverse habitats across the state, including rural farmlands, forests, and suburban and urban areas. Generally, coyotes steer clear of human contact. However, during the spring denning and pup-rearing period, coyotes may become more territorial and protective, leading to potential conflicts with people and pets. Additionally, if coyotes associate food sources like garbage or pet food with humans, they may lose their natural fear of people, increasing the likelihood of encounters. 

To reduce or prevent conflicts with coyotes, DEC recommends the following steps:

• Never feed coyotes.
• Do not leave food outside. Pet food and garbage attract coyotes and other wildlife, increasing risks to people and pets. Simple strategies to ensure you do not unintentionally feed coyotes include:

• Always feed pets indoors;
• Prevent access to garbage;
• Fence or enclose compost piles; and
• Eliminate availability of bird seed, as concentrations of birds and rodents can attract coyotes.

• Do not allow coyotes to approach people or pets. If you see a coyote, be assertive. Stand tall, hold your arms up or out to appear larger. If a coyote lingers, make loud noises, wave your arms, and throw sticks and stones.
• Appreciate coyotes from a distance and teach others to do the same.
• Do not allow pets to run free.  Supervise outdoor pets to keep them safe from coyotes and other wildlife, especially at dusk and night. Small dogs and cats are particularly vulnerable.
• Fence yards to deter coyotes.  Ensure the fence is tight to the ground, preferably extending six inches below ground level, and taller than four feet.
• Remove brush and tall grass around homes.  Removing brush eliminates hiding spots for coyotes, as they prefer areas where they can remain unseen.
• Encourage neighbors to follow these guidelines.  Encourage others to be a good neighbor. Community-wide efforts are necessary to prevent coyote conflicts.
  

During spring, coyotes are more active and visible. Seeing a coyote occasionally is generally not a cause for concern. However, when coyotes exhibit bold behavior, show little fear of people, or are seen frequently during the daytime near residences, contact the Regional DEC Wildlife Office for assistance. In emergency situations, contact the local police department.

For additional information about the eastern coyote and preventing conflicts with coyotes, see attached graphic and visit:

Eastern Coyote

Coyote Conflicts

Feeding Wildlife: A Wrong Choice

Tips to Eliminate Wildlife Conflicts

Thirteen Members of Houston Robbery Crew Charged in Robbery and Drug Conspiracy

 

Three Crew Members Charged With Murder

A grand jury in the Southern District of Texas returned a superseding indictment charging 13 Texas men for their roles in a robbery crew that engaged in robbery, drug trafficking, obstruction of justice, and murder, including the killing of two individuals in July 2023.

The following 13 defendants, all of Houston, have been charged in the superseding indictment with one count of robbery conspiracy and one count of drug distribution conspiracy:

• Derrick Dewayne Butler, also known as Kutt and Kutt Throat, 28;
• Travon Maxwell, also known as Goonie, 29;
• Emmanuel Winnfield, also known as Pimp, 36;
• Herman Mitchell, also known as Boobie, 37;
• Tyrone Raymond Bolton, also known as Honeybee, 32;
• Joe Devon Champion, also known as Champ, 35;
• Jonta Allen Glover, 32;
• Dewayne Donnell Champion, also known as Wayne, 37;
• Cedric Lynn Andrews, also known as Ced, 50;
• Jermar Ballard Jones, also known as Mar, 37;
• Christian Xavier Rucker, also known as Gucci, 30;
• Samuel Lamonte Draper, 25; and
• Jeremy James Jenkins, 21.

If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the robbery conspiracy count and a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison on the drug distribution conspiracy count. In addition, the defendants are each charged with one or more counts of attempt to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and Jones is charged with obstruction.

Three of the defendants, Butler, Rucker, and Jones, were also charged with two counts of murder in aid of racketeering, using a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and two counts of causing death through the use of a firearm relating to the killing of two men on July 19, 2023. If convicted of murder in aid of racketeering, Butler, Rucker, and Jones each face a mandatory minimum of life in prison or a maximum of the death penalty.

Twelve of the defendants, Bolton, J. Champion, Glover, Winnfield, D. Champion, Mitchell, Andrews, Jones, Butler, Maxwell, Draper, and Jenkins, each face, if convicted, an additional mandatory minimum of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison for possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Supervisory Official Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei for the Southern District of Texas, and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. of the FBI Houston Field Office made the announcement.

The FBI Houston Field Office and Houston Police Department investigated the case with valuable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Texas Department of Public Safety. This case is part of both the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative (VCI) in Houston and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.

Trial Attorneys Justin G. Bish, Ralph Paradiso, Ben Tonkin, and Jodi Anton of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Byron H. Black and Kelly Zenón-Matos for the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

The Houston VCI is conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas and local, state, and federal law enforcement. The joint effort addresses violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal laws to prosecute gang members and associates in Houston. As part of the initiative, the Criminal Division has dedicated attorneys and other resources to prosecuting violent offenders and assisting intervention, prevention, and reentry efforts to address the root causes of violent crime.

OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Justice Department’s OCDETF webpage.

An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Governor Kathy Hochul Announced More Than 200,000 New Yorkers Have Enrolled in New York Mobile ID

Mobile ID Is an Optional, Highly Secure ID Available on Your Smartphone

New York Mobile ID Now Accepted at Four New York Airports and More Than 100 Airports Nationwide

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that more than 200,000 New Yorkers have completed the enrollment process for New York Mobile ID (MiD), a voluntary, highly secure digital version of a state-issued driver license, learner permit or ID. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) first announced the Mobile ID in June 2024.

“We’re thrilled that more than 200,000 New Yorkers have embraced this revolutionary technology that enables secure, contactless identification right from your phone,” Governor Hochul said. “Whether you want to get through airport security or order an alcoholic beverage, Mobile ID is raising the bar on the way New Yorkers can verify their age and identity, offering greater convenience and privacy.”

Anyone with a valid New York State-issued driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID can download the secure Mobile ID app on their Android or iOS device through Google Play or the App Store.

In tandem with the growth in Mobile ID users, the number of places where Mobile ID can be used continues to expand. Through a partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), New York’s MiD is accepted at TSA security checkpoints at more than 100 airports across the country and at four airports in New York State, including all terminals at LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy, Syracuse Hancock, and Stewart International airports.

State bars, restaurants and other businesses with liquor licenses can also accept Mobile ID as a form of age verification during alcohol sales after the New York State Liquor Authority issued an advisory in October approving its use.

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “So much in today’s world happens on your smartphone, and Mobile ID’s strong growth in less than 10 months shows that so many New Yorkers have wanted a simple and secure way to access their driver license, permit or non-driver ID directly on their device. Mobile IDs will become increasingly important for consumers and businesses alike as more interactions go digital, and I’m proud that New York is one of the states leading the way.”

The New York Mobile ID was designed to ensure user privacy and developed in compliance with the most stringent international standards for personal identification published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) as well as the Mobile Driver’s License Implementation Guidelines created by the American Academy of Motor Vehicle Administrators.

The MiD app can only be unlocked through Face ID, TouchID, or a secure six-digit PIN. Personal information found on the MiD is encrypted and only accessible when the Mobile ID holder consents to sharing it.

Information is transmitted to a verifier through a secure, digital connection so the user never has to hand over their phone. And information about usage, including where, when, and what personal information the user has shared, is encrypted and stored only on their personal device. Data on when and where someone uses their MiD is not tracked, stored or transmitted.

You can get MiD in a few simple steps:

1. Download the New York MiD app from the App Store or through Google Play.
2. Register the phone number of the device the Mobile ID will be on. Your Mobile ID can only be on one device at a time to help protect your identity.
3. Take a picture of the front and back of your physical ID (driver license, non-driver ID, or learner permit), using your phone’s camera.
4. Pose for a selfie. The app checks the photo and ID against information on file with the DMV to ensure you are who you say you are.

Once your information is verified, your MiD is active and ready to use wherever it is accepted, including in other states and countries. Learn more about New York Mobile ID online.

For more information about DMV, visit the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles website, or follow the DMV conversation online at Facebook, X and Instagram.

 

Wave Hill Weekly Events (Mar 20 – Mar 27) | Signs of Spring & Forest Bathing

 

Cooler air sweeps across the gardens from the palisades across the rushing river. A chill just enough to awaken the small critters that live in Wave Hill. Birds are gathering on the grass looking for a bite to eat, squirrels scurry up and down the trees, and rabbits hop about. Visit Wave Hill to connect your mind, body, and senses, to our quietly thriving gardens this spring! 

 

 

Nature: 

 

Garden and Conservatory Highlights Walk  

Sun, Mar 23, 1:00PM – 2:00PM  

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required.     

Join a knowledgeable Wave Hill Garden Guide for a leisurely stroll in the gardens. Discuss topics of the upcoming season with 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. 

 

 

Family:  

 

Family Art Project: Felted River 

Sat, Mar 22, 10:00AM – 1:00PM 

Sun, Mar 23, 10:00AM – 1:00PM  

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required 

Our native rivers run through our communities, reminding us of the nature of movement. Let your creativity flow by using felt to create underwater scenes inspired by the Hudson River. We'll craft woolly art pieces that reflect the river's wide variety of plant and animal life. 

 

Kids on the Move! Signs of Spring 

Sat, Mar 22, 1:00PM – 2:00PM 

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required 

While winter fades away, the new season marks an awakening of the world around us! Wander around Wave Hill with guest educator Corinne Flax to find early signs of spring throughout the grounds. Connect with nature and feel the world waking up around you, then wake up your own body with yoga-based poses and games. Recommended for ages three to eight.   

 

 

Wellness: 

 

Spring Equinox Forest Bathing 

Sun, Mar 23, 12:00PM – 2:00PM  

Registration required.     

In times of transition we often seek moments of grounding and mindfulness Receive prompted invitations to engage your senses as you move through the garden on a meditative stroll with certified nature therapy guide Cindy Olsen. Enjoy the healing benefits of the garden, then conclude with ceremonial tea. 

 

 

HOURS STARTING MARCH 15: 10AM–5:30PM, Tuesday–Sunday 

Shuttle Service Free from Subway and Metro-North, Saturday–Sunday 

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