Wave Hill Weekly Events: Sept 21 – Sept 28

 

And just like that, the Autumnal Equinox arrives this weekend. Our four-week, autumn-inspired Plein Air Workshop series begins on Sep 28. All levels are welcome at this instructor-led series, inspired by the beauty of autumn at Wave Hill. Be sure to register promptly. 

The Family Art Project programming has switched up its scheduling as well. On September 23 and 24, Glydndor Gallery exhibiting artist Jill Cohen-Nuñez will be leading a special Family Art Project and our storytime program will return to the Gund Theater. (This was featured in last weeks email as well and has changed slots with a sundial making project.) 

The gardens close early on Thursday, Sept 21, at 2PM as we dress for our annual Gardeners’ Party, honoring Margaret Roach and featuring our famous plant auction. Proceeds help care for Wave Hill's world-class garden and train the next generation of horticulturalists through the John Nally Intern Program.    

Gardener’s Party 

Thu, Sep 21, 2023 

Gardens close early at 2PM to dress for the party. 

Public Garden Highlights Walk 

Thu, Sep 21, 2023, 12–12:45PM 

Free, and admission to the grounds is free on Thursdays 

Registration is 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. Severe weather cancels.  

Family Art Project: Nature’s Masks 

Sat, Sep 23, 2023, 10AM–1PM 

Sun, Sep 24, 2023, 10AM–1PM 

Free with admission to the grounds 

Registration not required 

Join visiting artist Jill Cohen-Nuñez in exploring our personal connection with nature through mask-making. Learn how to hand-build a clay mask that represents your relationship with the great outdoors. Decorate it with leaves and twigs to create a fanciful façade displaying your inner feelings about the season. At 11:30AM, families may enjoy a storytime program in the Gund Theater, all ages welcome.  

Public Gallery Tour 

Sat, Sep 23, 2023, 2–2:45PM 

Free with admission to the grounds 

Registration not required 

Solo and group exhibitions at Glyndor Gallery explore the dynamic relationships between nature, culture and site. When exhibitions are on view in the spring, summer and fall, Gallery Greeters lead public exhibition tours on Thursdays and Saturdays at 2PM. 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. Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.   

Public Garden Highlights Walk 

Sun, Sep 24, 2023, 2–2:45PM 

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. Severe weather cancels.  

House and Gardens: Plein Air Sketch & Watercolor Workshop  

Thu, Sep 28, 2023, 10AM –1PM 

$170, including admission to the grounds. Wave Hill members save 10% 

Registration required, online or by calling 718.549.3200 x251. The one-time fee is for the entire series. 

Using sketch and watercolor techniques and a palette of luminous colors, explore the architectural elements and garden structures that compliment Wave Hill’s exuberant autumn landscape. Artist Wennie Huang leads this seasonally inspired plein air workshop series for artists of all levels and abilities. A supplies list will be provided prior to the first class. This series is rain or shine, with an indoor location reserved in case of rain. This four-session workshop series continues on October 5, 12 and 19, 2023.  

Mixed-media artist Wennie Huang, PSA, produces works that range from small drawings and limited-edition books and projects to site-specific installations. For over a decade, Wennie has led Wave Hill art workshops in pastel, watercolor and mixed media, and even a book-making workshop for children. Huang currently teaches at Parsons School for Design, 92nd Street Y and the Pastel Society of America (PSA), where she is a Signature Member.  

Public Garden Highlights Walk 

Thu, Sep 28, 2023, 12–12:45PM 

Free, and admission to the grounds is free on Thursdays 

Registration is 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. Severe weather cancels. 

Public Gallery Tour 

Thu, Sep 28, 2023, 2–2:45PM 

Free, and admission to the grounds is free on Thursdays 

Registration is not required 

Solo and group exhibitions at Glyndor Gallery explore the dynamic relationships between nature, culture and site. When exhibitions are on view in the spring, summer and fall, Gallery Greeters lead public exhibition tours on Thursdays and Saturdays at 2PM. 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. Each tour lasts approximately 45 minutes.  

HOURS: 10AM–5:30PM, Tuesday–Sunday 

Shuttle Service runs Thursday–Sunday 

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

Governor Hochul Announces State Police and Local Law Enforcement to Crack Down on Impaired and Reckless Driving This Labor Day Weekend

 

State Police, Local Law Enforcement Announce Participation in the National "Drunk Driving, Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over" Campaign Through Labor Day

 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that State Police and local law enforcement will be out in force through Labor Day weekend in order to crack down on impaired and reckless driving during Labor Day weekend. The enforcement period begins on Friday, September 1, 2023, and runs through Monday, September 4, 2023.

“Labor Day Weekend is a time where individuals are traveling throughout the state, traffic on the roadways are heavier than usual, and accidents can occur,” Governor Hochul said. “We want everyone to have a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend without accidents, serious injuries, and fatalities getting in the way. Please be sure to not drink and drive, and keep your eyes on the road.”

The New York State Police will increase patrols to combat drunk, impaired, and reckless driving throughout this Labor Day weekend. Labor Day weekend traditionally results in heavy traffic throughout the state. This increased flow of traffic also brings with it an increase in accidents, serious injuries, and fatalities and police will be out in force to remove impaired and reckless drivers from our highways.

New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli said, “Traffic safety is a top priority, and each day Troopers work to ensure the well-being of all those who utilize New York’s roadways. Our goal during this enforcement is to ensure we can take intoxicated and drug impaired drivers off our roadways before they injure or kill others. Our Troopers will remain vigilant to remove reckless drivers from our roads and hold them accountable for their actions. I thank the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee for their support in conducting pivotal traffic enforcements such as this.”

Drivers can expect to see sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols by State Police and local law enforcement agencies during this holiday weekend. Troopers will be using both marked State Police vehicles and Concealed Identity Traffic Enforcement (CITE) vehicles as part of this crackdown to more easily identify motorists who are violating the law. CITE vehicles allow the Trooper to better observe driving violations.  These vehicles blend in with everyday traffic but are unmistakable as emergency vehicles once the emergency lighting is activated.

This initiative is partially funded by the Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee (GTSC). The GTSC and the New York State STOP-DWI Foundation remind motorists that their “Have a Plan” mobile app is available for Apple, Droid and Windows smartphones. The app enables New Yorkers to locate and call a taxi service and program a designated driver list. It also provides information on DWI laws and penalties, and a way to even report a suspected impaired driver.

On Labor Day weekend in 2022, Troopers arrested 191 people for DWI, issued 9,580 total tickets, and investigated 140 crashes, which resulted in three fatalities.

Council Member Marjorie Velázquez - This Week in District 13

 

Dear Neighbor,

This summer has flown by, but not without some incredible moment and events in the district. It has been an honor to host several events and Mobile Office Hours to the community, and I am excited for what is in store this fall. From spotted lanternfly workshops and movie nights to ‘HPD In Your District,’ I am committed to providing a variety of resources and programs across our community. For more information on these upcoming events, scroll to ‘What’s Happening in District 13.’

In this week’s email, you will find Labor Day weekend and construction updates,  details about my upcoming Committee on Consumer and Worker Protection hearing (Unlicensed Cannabis Retailers) back-to-school resources, CUNY’s college preparation program, career opportunities, small business networking events, mental health services, and more.  

To contact my office for additional information or for assistance, please call us at  (718) 931-1721 or email us at District13@council.nyc.gov.

Wishing you all a safe and wonderful weekend.

Sincerely,

Council Member Marjorie Velázquez

LABOR DAY UPDATES

Notice of Office Hours

In observance of the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 4, all government offices will be closed. If you have an emergency, please call #911; for general inquiries, please call my office and 718-931-1721 and leave a message or email District13@council.nyc.gov.

Please be advised of the following Travel Advisory for the Labor Day weekend:

• Non-Emergency repair work will be suspended at Port Authority crossings to accommodate higher traffic volume

• PATH will operate on a modified Saturday schedule on Monday, September 4

• Port Authority to conduct DWI checkpoints at Goethals Bridge

• It is recommended to take the Fare-Free LaGuardia Link Q70, which provides connections to the NYC Transit Subway, buses, and MTA Long Island Rail Road

New York City Department of Sanitation

If Monday, September 4 is your normal collection day, please advised that there will only be trash and compost pickup.

• Residents who normally receive Monday trash and composting collection should put their material at the curb the evening of Sunday, September 3, for collection starting Monday, September 4.

• Residents who normally receive Monday recycling collection should put their material at the curb the evening of Monday, September 4 for collection starting Tuesday, September 5.

Labor Day Safety Tips

With Labor Day around the corner, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) has shared safety tips for activities like grilling and fireworks, which can cause accidents or serious injuries. It is important to note that the use of fireworks is illegal in New York City and can increase the risk of fires and fire-related injuries. The FDNY strongly encourages all New Yorkers to follow these safety tips to continue having a memorable end of summer.

Spotted Lanternfly Workshop - Location Change

Tomorrow, September 2 from 10 AM to 12 PM, at the Pelham Bay Park Headquarters/Nature Center, my office and NYCH2O will host a Spotted Lanternfly Workshop. During the workshop, participants will learn best practices to stop the spread of the invasive species, as well as build Spotted Lanternfly traps.

To access the Nature Center, enter at Wilkinson Avenue and Bruckner Boulevard, near the North Picnic area.

Backpack Giveaway + Spotted Lanternfly Event

This Sunday, September 2 from 9 AM to 3 PM, my office will host a Backpack Giveaway and Spotted Lanternfly Workshop at the Bronx Park East Farmer’s Market. Stop by to build a spotted lanternfly trap and pick up a backpack, just in time for the school year! Get there early; supplies are limited.

Construction Advisory

Department of Transportation - Traffic Study

The New York City Department of Transportation has completed its study regarding additional traffic controls at Waters Avenue and Westchester Avenue. As a result, a traffic signal has been approved; installation is tentatively scheduled to be completed by November 30. If you know of an area that will benefit from traffic controls, contact my office at District13@council.nyc.gov.

Owen Dolen Recreation Center

Please be advised that the reconstruction of the windows and doors at the Owen Dolen Recreation Center is scheduled to begin on Monday, September 22, 2023. For more information about this project, please click here.

Hutchinson River Parkway Bridge

From Tuesday, September 5 to Friday, September 29, the NYC Department of Transportation Division of Bridges will continue maintenance of the Hutchinson River Parkway Bridge over the Hutchinson river. As a result, either two southbound or two northbound lanes of the bridge will be closed (one lane will remain open at all times), weeknights from 12 AM to 5 AM (early morning).  This work is subject to weather condition; at least one lane of traffic will be accessible at all times.

Westchester Avenue Bridge

From Tuesday, September 5 to Friday, September 15, the NYC Department of Transportation Division of Bridges will close the southbound Hutchinson River Parkway between Exit 1C: Pelham Parkway and the southbound entrance ramp from Westchester Ave. The closure will occur Monday to Friday in the following stages:

• Single-Lane Closure from 10 PM to 5 AM

• Full Closure from 12:01 AM to 4 AM

From Tuesday, September 5 to Friday, September 15, the NYC Department of Transportation Division of Bridges will close the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway between Exit 1B: E. Tremont /Westchester Ave and the northbound entrance ramp from Hutchinson River Parkway East The closure will occur Monday to Friday in the following stages:

• Single-Lane Closure from 10 PM to 5 AM

• Full Closure from 12:30 AM to 4:30 AM

Shore Road

The New York City Department of Transportation will continue routine maintenance of the Shore Road Bridge over the Hutchinson River. As a result, single-land closures will continue through Friday, September 15.

Daytime

• Northbound - 7 AM to 9 AM

• Northbound and Southbound - 9 AM to 1 PM

Nighttime

• Northbound and Southbound - 10 PM to 7 AM

City Island Arts and Crafts Fair

On Saturday, September 9 and Sunday, September 10, the City Island Chamber of Commerce will host its annual City Island Arts and Crafts Fair. This year’s event will feature over 60 vendors with products ranging from painting and body care to clothing, woodworking, stained glass, and more.

This year’s Clam Chowder Tasting will take place on Sunday, September 10 at 2 PM in Hawkins Park. Enjoy a beautiful Sunday with family and friends, while tasting the incredible flavors of this year’s clam chowder entries!

Notice of Committee Hearing: Consumer and Worker Protection On Wednesday, September 6, I will chair this month’s Committee on Consumer and Worker Protection hearing, where we will hear two bills, Int 995 and Int 1010, which focus on unlicensed cannabis retailers. How to Testify In-person hearings do not require pre-registration; if you would like to testify virtually, you must pre-register by visiting council.nyc.gov/testify. If you have questions about accessibility or would like to request ASL, CART, or any other accommodations, please email EEOOfficer@council.nyc.gov or call 212-788-6936. For all other questions, email hearings@council.nyc.gov or call 212-482-4219. Agenda Int 995 - A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to the creation of a public awareness campaign on the dangers of purchasing cannabis or cannabis products from unlicensed retailers. Int 1010 - A Local Law to amend the administrative code of the city of New York, in relation to adding a 311 complaint category for unlicensed cannabis retailers. NYC Council on Unlicensed Cannabis Shop Closures My colleagues, Council Members Gale A. Brewer and Lynn Schulman, and I have been vocal about the proliferation of unlicensed smoke shops and cannabis sales. Earlier this year, we held a joint hearing on the issue and have since submitted questions to Mayor Adams, asking for detailed information about the unlicensed shops. As the Chair of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, addressing this issue is a priority for me and my community; and I look forward to the upcoming committee hearings this fall. In the meantime, below is my statement to CannabisWire, regarding my recommendation of a more coordinated approach to addressing this issue head-on. “This is a critical time for the cannabis industry, and we need to work along with the mayor’s office as well the governor’s office to address the bad actors who are putting our communities at risk,” Velázquez told Cannabis Wire in a statement. “There are countless entrepreneurs eager to do business the right way but impacted by the negative actions of others. Only working in partnership with our colleagues in government and the New York Police Department to weed out those acting in bad faith can we grow the cannabis industry in New York City the right way.” DSNY Containerization Rules for Chain Businesses Beginning Tuesday, September 5, all chain businesses in New York City must use rigid containers with secure lids when setting out trash for collection. This new rule is an important step in keeping our streets clean. Please be advised this rule applies to any business with five or more locations in New York City, regardless of what is sold. Information Sessions September 5 at 11 AM - Register September 14 at 2 PM - Register September 18 at 6 PM - Register September 27 at 3 PM - Register If you’re unable to attend an info session, visit nyc.gov/UseBins for more information.

Governor Hochul Suspends Construction-Related Lane Closures for Labor Day Weekend

 

Lane Closures Suspended from Friday, September 1 at 6 a.m. to Tuesday, September 5 at 6 a.m.

Motorists Urged to Slow Down and Move Over for Roadside Emergency and Maintenance Vehicles

 Governor Kathy Hochul today announced that temporary lane closures for road and bridge construction projects on New York State highways will be suspended from 6 a.m. on Friday, September 1, to 6 a.m. on Tuesday, September 5, to ease travel throughout Labor Day weekend. Suspension of roadside construction during a weekend of increased traffic also helps protect the safety of highway workers, including those in organized labor, during a holiday that honors the ideals of the labor movement.

“From our scenic trails to our world class state parks, New York is home to some of the best places to celebrate Labor Day weekend,” Governor Hochul said. “We want to make sure that travelers get to their destinations safely and with minimal interruptions, so I encourage all New Yorkers to plan their trip ahead of time and be safe on the roadways to ensure everyone can celebrate the holiday with family and friends.”

The construction suspension aligns with New York State's Drivers First Initiative, which prioritizes the convenience of motorists to minimize traffic congestion and travel delays due to road and bridge work. Motorists should follow the state's Move Over Law, which requires motorists to slow down and safely move over for law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks and construction or maintenance vehicles that are stopped along roads across the state. Motorists should be aware that some work may continue behind permanent concrete barriers or for emergency repairs.

Text stops, including park-and-ride facilities, rest stops, service areas and parking areas along state highways support the state's effort to reduce distracted driving. All text stops will remain open, providing locations where drivers can safely and conveniently use their phones and other mobile devices for calling, texting, navigating and accessing mobile apps. Texting while driving is especially dangerous, as it requires motorists to take their eyes off the road, hands off the wheel and mind off driving.

The Thruway Authority reminds motorists that 10 service areas are closed and under construction as part of the $450 million private investment and modernization project. Fuel services remain open at all locations. Motorists can view the service areas and plan their stops on the Thruway Authority's website and on the free mobile app.

Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “With the summer season winding down and schools across the state getting in gear, New Yorkers will be hitting the roads this weekend for one last gasp of summer. Less construction will help minimize congestion and also keep our roadside workers out of harm’s way during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. Drivers should remain alert, put down their phones, and buckle up. I urge all motorists to follow the rules of the road and always be ready to move over for emergency vehicles.”Travelers can check NYSDOT's 511NY before traveling by calling 5-1-1, visiting the 511 website, or downloading the free 511NY mobile app on iTunes or Google Play. The free service allows users to check road conditions, view 2219 traffic cameras and link to air and transit information. The app features Drive mode, which provides audible alerts along a chosen route while a user is driving, warning them about incidents and construction.

Follow New York State DOT on Twitter @NYSDOT and on Facebook at New York State Department of Transportation.

The Department of Motor Vehicles urges drivers to use the Have a Plan app to help find a safe way home from a celebration where they may be drinking. The free app from the Governor's Traffic Safety Committee and the NYS STOP-DWI Foundation allows users to designate a driver, call a cab or ride share, and to review the consequences of impaired driving. Users can even use the app to report a drunk or drugged driver. The app is available for Apple, Android and Windows smart phones.

Follow DMV on Twitter @NYSDMV and on Facebook at New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.