Wave Hill Weekly Events (Oct 9 – Oct 16) | Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' Weekend at Wave Hill

 

Legacies of those who came before us are passed down through stories in a community, etched in stone, and rested in black ink and paintings on parchment and canvas. Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Wave Hill to uncover the untold. Learn about the innovations and strength of Indigenous communities and their culture that carries on creativity, resilience, and voices that carry on into the future to shape where we are today.  

 

Indigenous Peoples’ Weekend 

October 11  –  October 13, 2025 | All Day 

Join us this Indigenous Peoples’ Weekend in honoring Indigenous communities and culture through talks, hands-on activities, family-friendly programs. Later, learn about the legacy of female Lenape Saunksquas (Chieftains) through an audio guide highlighting their role in the 15th century Dutch-Indigenous alliance.  

 

Nature & Wellness 

 

Fall Birding 

Sun, Oct 12, 9:30AM – 11:00AM   

Advanced registration encouraged. 

Fall is peak migration time along the Hudson River, and we have a front row seat! Join naturalists Gabriel Willow and Ryan Mandelbaum as you explore Wave Hill’s gardens, woodlands, and the skies overhead to look for resident and migrating birds. 

 

Yoga in the Garden 

Sun, Oct 12, 10:15AM – 11:15AM   

Registration encouraged. 

Root your feet in the grass and look out upon the vistas as you enjoy a gentle yoga class. All levels welcome. 

 

Garden Highlights Walk 

Sun, Oct 12, 1:00PM – 1:30PM 

Mon, Oct 13, 1:00PM – 1:30PM 

Free with admission to the grounds   

Registration not required.   

Take a leisurely guided walk with a Wave Hill Garden Guide to observe seasonal garden highlights! Each walk and topic varies by the guide leading it. 

 

Cooking Demo: The Native American Palate 

Mon, Oct 12, 1:00PM – 2:00PM   

Registration required. 

Learn about commonly used ingredients in contemporary Indigenous meals and different preparation techniques as Chef Brandi Solomon of Great Performances, shares tasty samples and recipes to take home. Throughout the cooking demonstration, Oleana Whispering Dove shares historical context on how these meals were prepared prior to European colonization.  

 

Art 

 

Public Gallery Tour  

Thu, Oct 9, 2:00PM – 3:00PM 

Sat, Oct 11, 2:00PM – 3:00PM 

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required. 

Visitors can expect an in-depth look at artworks on view in Glyndor Gallery and in the Sunroom Project Space, showcasing the work of both emerging and established artists in the unique context of a public garden between nature, culture and site. Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes. 

 

Still Sacred Ground: Lenapehoking 1625-2025  

Sat, Oct 11  –  Thu, Oct 30 | All Day  

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required. 

Gain understanding of the landscape and community life of the place previously known as Lenapehoking and known today as New York City. Curated by Oleana Whispering Dove, discover the significant contributions made to Lenapehoking and beyond by the original inhabitants of New York and the Lady Chieftains: Saunksquas, highlighted through regional Indigenous maps created by Evan Pritchard. This audio guide is one of a four-part exhibition on view at cultural organizations across New York City.   

 

Family 

 

Family Art Project: Corn Husk Dolls 

Sat, Oct 11, 10:00AM – 1:00PM 

Sun, Oct 12, 10:00AM – 1:00PM   

Mon, Oct 13, 10:00AM – 1:00PM 

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration not required. 

Join us in celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Explore corn's role in indigenous cultures and learn about its versatility as a food and art material. Tie, weave, and shape dried husks to make your own figurine. Over the weekend, join a special storytime program at 11:30AM for a reading of the book When the Shadbush Blooms by Carla Messinger.  

 

Special Events 

 

Special Events Indigenous Peoples’ Weekend  

Sat, Oct 11  –  Mon, Oct 13, 2025 | All Day 

Registration not required. 

Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Wave Hill as we honor Indigenous communities and recognize their cultures and contributions through family-friendly programs, talks, hands-on activities, and an audio guide highlighting female Lenape Saunksquas (Chieftains). Learn about the important role of plants and food in Indigenous cultures, purchase handmade items from local Indigenous artists, and enjoy specialty themed items throughout the weekend in the Café. We are open for the holiday on Monday, October 13 and admission is free to all visitors. 

 

Original Native New Yorkers: The Weequaskeck Nation of the Bronx 

Sat, Oct 11, 1:00PM – 2:00PM 

Free with admission to the grounds  

Registration encouraged. 

Professor Evan Pritchard, Director of the Center for Algonquin Culture and author of Native New Yorkers, will give a talk on the original inhabitants of Wave Hill, the Weequaskeck and other nations of the Wappingers Commonwealth. Tying together colonial records, treaties, linguistics, archaeology, and oral tradition, Evan will attempt to paint a picture of what life in Riverdale, and the surrounding areas was like before Henry Hudson’s visit in 1609.  

 

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.   

BOLLYWOOD SINGER SALIM MERCHANT TO HEADLINE NEW YORK STATE’S 2025 DIWALI FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PRESENTED BY NYSTEC

 

Enjoy an Array of Traditional Indian Food, Performances, and Fireworks 

Free Evening Festival Will Start Indoors at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center

New York State Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner Jeanette Moy announced that Bollywood singer Salim Merchant will perform at this year’s New York State Diwali Festival of Lights presented by NYSTEC on Saturday, October 18, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center in Albany. 

“Diwali is a meaningful observance for our state’s South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities,” Commissioner Moy said. “The night will mark a time of light, reflection, and unity. Team OGS is proud to provide an opportunity for all New Yorkers to join in on the festivities and celebrate this important holiday.” 

The New York State Diwali Festival of Lights presented by NYSTEC will start indoors at the Empire State Plaza Convention Center, with traditional entertainment and displays, including free henna art. This year’s entertainment will be headlined by Salim Merchant, with opening performances by community groups from the Capital Region, including Bollywood and Bhangra dances. 

Artists will create rangoli, geometric floral patterns drawn on the floor using colorful flower petals. Participating vendors will sell Indian and other types of food, crafts, and other goods. 

In the evening, event attendees can go outside on the Plaza to enjoy a fireworks display. 

Salim Merchant is among India’s most respected singers and composers. His songs have been featured in over 100 Bollywood films, musicals, and TV shows. He has received multiple accolades, including the Syracuse International Film Festival’s Best Music Award for the film “Fashion,” the International Indian Film Academy Awards, and the Zee Cine Award.  

Sponsors of the New York State Diwali Festival of Lights presented by NYSTEC including Maharaja Fine Dining Indian Restaurant & Bar, CDTA, B95.5, and Agrawal Family Foundation.  

The following bag policy is in effect for indoor events: 

• CLEAR plastic, vinyl or PVC bags no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” will be allowed. 

• Small clutch bags no larger than 6” x 9” will be allowed and do NOT need to be clear. 

• Larger and other types of bags will not be allowed in. There is no storage or check-in for prohibited bags. 

Paid parking is available in the visitor lot underneath the Empire State Plaza. 

For event updates and additional information, visit empirestateplaza.ny.gov, @EmpireStatePlaza on Facebook, and @plazaevents on Instagram, or call (518) 474-4759. 

OGS is implementing a new emergency text alert system, which the public can use to receive emergency notifications specific to the event they are attending. For the New York State Diwali Festival of Lights presented by NYSTEC, the public can text ESP25 to 888777 to opt in and receive emergency messages. 

DEC ANNOUNCES $4 MILLION IN GRANTS AVAILABLE TO ADDRESS INVASIVE SPECIES IMPACTS

 

New Funding Category Added for Projects Addressing Habitat Restoration

Grant Applications Accepted Through Dec. 17, 2025, Webinar on Oct. 16 

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Amanda Lefton announced approximately $4 million is now available to advance projects across the state that help prevent, detect, respond to, and restore sites impacted by invasive species. The grants made available through the Invasive Species Grant Program (ISGP) will target non-native species and prevent potential harm to the environment, the economy, and human health. 

“Invasive species pose a serious threat to New York’s landscapes, water quality, and native biodiversity,” said Commissioner Lefton. “Through the continued support in Governor Kathy Hochul’s budget to address invasive species, we are pleased to offer another round of grants to help local governments and conservation groups contain and combat these threats. We urge all eligible entities to take advantage of this funding opportunity so that together, we can safeguard the natural heritage that allows New York to thrive.” 

DEC administers the Invasive Species Grant Program and invested $4 million for eligible municipalities, academic institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. The funding comes from $18.55 million in the state Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) specifically supporting invasive species-related initiatives. Among the many environmental victories in the 2025-26 State Budget, Governor Hochul increased the EPF to $425 million, the highest level of funding in the program's history. 

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “Invasive species are a threat to New York’s farmlands, waterways, and natural resources. I’m glad to see another round of funding available to help organizations statewide fight these harmful pests, and I encourage all eligible entities to apply. Working together with Governor Hochul and our partners at the Department of Environmental Conservation, and with the help of all of our partners on the ground in communities across the state, we stand a better chance at managing and fighting these devastating species.” 

Applicants may submit up to two bids for eligible projects in the following categories relating to aquatic and/or terrestrial invasive species: 

• Spread prevention or boat decontamination; 
• Rapid response and control; 
• Research; and 
• Habitat restoration and resiliency.  

Grant awards range from a minimum of $11,000 to a maximum of $250,000, with a required 25 percent match. Project locations must be wholly within New York State. Priority will be given to projects that include opportunities for public participation, are on or close to public lands or waterbodies, and incorporate strategies that help ensure long-term success. For full details about the grant opportunity including eligible projects and scoring criteria, visit the Invasive Species Grant Program page on DEC’s website. 

DEC is hosting a webinar on Thursday, Oct. 16, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to provide information on the program requirements, funding details, and how to use the new State Financial System (SFS) to submit bids for grants. To register for the webinar, visit meetny-gov.webex.com/weblink/register/r5fcbe8f0d609bc486bc3cf42376308bf

Bids for eligible projects are due by 3 p.m. on Dec. 17, 2025. All grant bidders must register in SFS before applying. Multiple bids may not be for the same project or project location. Not-for-profit bidders must prequalify in SFS, so DEC recommends starting the process well in advance of the grant application due date. Visit https://grantsmanagement.ny.gov for information on how to prequalify and apply for grants through SFS.

For more information about invasive species, visit DEC’s website.

Councilmember Kristy Marmorato's Weekly Newsletter

Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato

Dear Neighbors,

This week we continued to support our community by hosting another beautiful street co-naming ceremony for Anthony J. Merolla, provided fresh produce and hot meals to the families of PS 83, our neighbors at Brady Court and our seniors at Northeast Bronx Senior Center. Our team had the honor of attending the Avril Show Foundation's Prayer Breakfast and collaborated with the NYPD 45th Precinct's annual Fall Festival. On Tuesday, we celebrated Italian Heritage month at City Hall and honored the talented Kathrine Narduccci.

In this week's newsletter, you will find details about the district events that took place this week, along with information on various upcoming events we have planned.

It is an honor to represent you in the New York City Council and continue fighting to keep our community safe, healthy, and prosperous!

Sincerely,

Councilwoman Kristy Marmorato

District 13, Bronx

 

Scroll to see what's new this week!

Anthony J. Merolla October 3, 2025

What a beautiful ceremony for the street co-naming of Anthony J. Merolla.

May his legacy live on in our hearts and on the corner of Rhinelander and Paulding Ave.



PS 83 Back to School Fun October 4, 2025

Happy to provide fresh produce to the families of PS 83 during their back to school event.

Avril Show October 4, 2025 

A wonderful morning at the Avril Show Foundation's Prayer Breakfast!

A beautiful display of prayer, community, and commitment to serve.

Friends of Pelham Parkway October 4, 2025

A huge shout out to Friends of Pelham Parkway for their clean up efforts.

Almost 20 volunteers to clean up our neighborhood. Always proud to support Friends of Pelham Parkway!

45th Precinct Fall Festival October 5, 2025

It was a great time at the 45th precinct Fall Festival.

Always proud to collaborate with our NYPD and community partners.

Brady Court Food Giveaway October 6, 2025

Our Brady Court food giveaway was a big hit! 150 bags of fresh produce distributed to our neighbors.

Northeast Seniors October 7, 2025

Our seniors are our priority and we are here to ensure they get all the support and resources they need.

Italian Heritage Celebration October 7, 2025

Wonderful evening at City Hall celebrating Italian Heritage Month.

It was my pleasure to honor the incredible Kathrine Narducci for her talent and pride in our Italian roots.

Important Update for Homeowners: 

NYC Garbage Bin Refunds!

What's Happening in D13?

Veterans Services

UPCOMING EVENTS

Councilwoman Marmorato  718-931-1721 District13@council.nyc.gov

Governor Hochul Announces Completion of $72 Million Affordable and Supportive Housing Development in the Bronx

Bedford Green House II Delivers 116 Affordable Apartments to Fordham Heights, Including 70 with Supportive Services

Multi-Generational Development Includes 55 Senior Apartments and a Neighborhood Medical Clinic 

Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the completion of Bedford Green House II, a $72 million multi-generational affordable housing development in the Fordham Heights neighborhood of The Bronx featuring 116 affordable apartments for families and seniors, including 70 with supportive services for households experiencing homelessness. Bedford Green House II also includes a 2,300-square-foot medical clinic offering services to residents and the surrounding community. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) has financed more than 9,200 affordable homes in the Bronx. Bedford Green House II continues this effort and complements Governor Hochul’s $25 billion five-year housing plan, which is on track to create or preserve 100,000 affordable homes statewide.

“The completion of Bedford Green House II bolsters our efforts to create safe, affordable, and supportive housing opportunities in New York City for residents of all ages,” Governor Hochul said. “My administration has financed more than 9,200 affordable homes in the Bronx and this latest development highlights how our strategic partnerships promote stronger, healthier communities that benefit families, seniors, and entire neighborhoods.”

 Bedford Green House II includes the new construction of a 17-story building on Jerome Avenue. Bedford Green House I, the first phase of the two-part Bedford Green House development, was completed in December 2021 and features 118 affordable apartments. Project Renewal is the developer and support services provider. 

All apartments at Bedford Green House II are affordable to households earning up to 60 percent of the Area Median Income. Residents of the supportive units also have access to rental subsidies funded through the Empire State Supportive Housing Initiative (ESSHI) and administered by the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH). Services include coordination of medical services, occupational therapy, crisis management, and assistance with access to public benefits.

Fifty-five apartments are set aside for seniors aged 62 or older, including 14 supportive apartments, through New York City's Zoning for Quality and Affordability amendment to its zoning code and Affordable Independent Residences for Seniors provision. The development includes apartments that are accessible and equipped for people with mobility impairments, as well as hearing and visual impairments.

The building's ground floor medical clinic offers community health services including primary care, podiatry, gynecology, and substance abuse treatment. Operated by Project Renewal, the clinic serves clients throughout the neighborhood with or without insurance.

Bedford Green House II is highly energy-efficient and was designed to meet Energy Star Multifamily High Rise performance requirements and LEED Gold certification under LEED for Enterprise Green Communities.

Residential amenities include a library, learning center, and backyard.  Residents also have access to a playground and rooftop garden at Bedford Green House I. 

State financing for the Bedford Green House II includes $5.7 million in permanent tax-exempt bonds, Federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits that generated $34.6 million in equity, and $9.7 million in subsidy from New York State Homes and Community Renewal. The New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance contributed $6 million through its Homeless Housing and Assistance Program. The New York State Office of Mental Health is providing $1.7 million annually for services and operating costs on the 70 ESSHI units. Additionally, OMH provided $343,000 in a program development grant to cover some start-up costs. The New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development provided $9.8 million through the Supportive Housing Loan Program, the New York City Council provided a $1.2 million grant, and the Office of the Bronx Borough President provided a $300,000 grant.

The FY25 and FY26 Enacted Budgets also strengthened the Governor’s Pro-Housing Community Program — which allows certified localities exclusive access to up to $750 million in discretionary State funding. Currently, more than 350 communities have received Pro-Housing certification, including New York City. 

Attorney General James Takes Action to Protect New Yorkers from Illegal Mercury in Skin Lightening Products

 

Three New York Companies Ordered to Cease and Desist Selling Hazardous Skin-Lightening Products

AG James Warns New Yorkers About Potential Health Risks of Elevated Mercury Levels in Certain Skin Lightening Products

New York Attorney General Letitia James today announced that her office has ordered three New York companies – Aleena Cosmetics, Axabee Skincare, and Singhcart, LLC – to immediately stop selling skin-lightening creams and other cosmetics that contain unlawful and dangerous levels of mercury. An Office of the Attorney General (OAG) investigation revealed that the three companies sell dozens of products with mercury concentrations up to 30,000 times greater than the legal limit under state law. Attorney General James is also warning New Yorkers about the risks of illegal elevated mercury levels in skin-lightening products, which can cause neurological damage, kidney and liver harm, skin rashes, or pose serious risks to fetal development.

“Mercury is poison, not a beauty treatment, and no company has any business selling it to consumers,” said Attorney General James. “Products with mercury levels this high are dangerous and illegal. My office is shutting down these unlawful sales to protect consumers throughout New York. We will not let companies profit by endangering New Yorkers’ health.”

The OAG launched an investigation into mercury in skin lighteners following reports from public health advocates and community organizations. The OAG investigators purchased and tested a range of products from Aleena Cosmetics and Axabee Skincare, both based in Malverne, Nassau County. Through independent laboratory testing, OAG found that all of the skin-lightening products purchased and tested from the two companies contained illegal mercury levels, in some cases 30,000 times higher than allowable levels. Under New York law, only “trace amounts” of mercury – less than one part per million – are allowed in these products. The OAG was able to purchase several of the same illegal products from Singhcart, LLC, based in Valley Stream, Nassau County.

As a result, OAG is issuing cease-and-desist letters to the three companies, directing them to immediately stop selling any products containing unlawful levels of mercury. The companies must confirm compliance within five business days. Attorney General James warns that failure to comply may result in legal action and civil penalties of up to $2,500 per violation per day.

Skin-lightening products are frequently marketed to women of color and sold in immigrant and minority communities. Mercury is often added to these products, also marketed as “beauty creams” or “pearl creams”, which claim to whiten or brighten the skin or treat dark spots, acne, scars, freckles, or wrinkles. These products are often available in small shops, bodegas, and online. Notably, exposure is not limited to direct use. Mercury can contaminate household items such as towels, bedding, and clothing; it can be inhaled as vapor; and it can be ingested accidentally. This means even people who do not use the products directly may be exposed, including infants.

New Yorkers can reduce their risk of mercury exposure by avoiding products that:

• Do not list ingredients;
• List mercury, calomel, mercuric, mercurous, or mercurio as an ingredient; or
• Are manufactured abroad and labeled only in languages other than English.

Consumers who have used non-prescription skin-lightening products should consult their health care provider about testing for mercury exposure. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include irritability, tremors, memory problems, changes in vision or hearing, depression, and numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or around the mouth. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should immediately call the New York Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

The OAG investigation found the following products contained illegal levels of mercury:

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has also published a list of skin-lightening products containing high levels of mercury. 

Consumers can report the sales of these products in New York City by calling 311 or, outside of the city, reporting to OAG’s Environmental Protection Bureau or the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Products containing mercury should never be thrown in the garbage and must be disposed at approved disposal sites. For disposal instructions, consumers can visit the New York City Department of Sanitation or DEC websites.

The OAG is working with WE ACT for Environmental Justice, the Zero Mercury Working Group, DOHMH, and DEC to protect vulnerable communities from mercury in skin lighteners and other products.