PUBLIC SAFETY
Protecting Survivors of Domestic Violence
 Domestic violence now accounts for one in every five homicides—and two in every five reported assaults — in New York City. To combat this problem, I authored Int. 1638-2019. As reported by the New York Daily News this bill would put watchful eye over how the NYPD and the City’s district attorneys respond to domestic violence along with outcomes for survivors, much of which no one currently tracks. If you are a victim of domestic violence you can always call NYC 24-Hour Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-621-HOPE. You are also invited to our monthly Family Law and Domestic Violence clinic in our district office. For more information on the legislation read the release at BenKallos.com/press-releases or coverage in the New York Daily News.
New Plans for Bike Safety City Wide
The New York Daily News reported on Mayor de Blasio’s citywide bike safety announcement that followed the death of 18 cyclists on New York City streets. Much of what the Mayor announced will bring programs that we have proven worked on the Upper East Side to the rest of the city. The Mayor has promised to install a completely unified network of bike lanes throughout the 5 boroughs, including 80 miles of on-street protected bike lanes and directing the NYPD to crack down on drivers who block bike lanes as well as redesigning intersections that are known to be dangerous.
Here on the Upper East Side, thanks to our Bike Safety Program, which dates back to 2014, residents are already getting bike safety education from Bike New York, and I have for years worked with the NYPD on enforcement to protect pedestrians and cyclists alike:
NYPD traffic data 17th and 19th precinct report Year to Date (YTD) as of October:
- 1,749 summons issued to bicycles mostly for not giving right of way to pedestrians and disobeying a steady red signal;
- 18,134 moving violations issued to vehicles, the violations were issued for infractions such as improper turns, disobeying a traffic control device for red lights, not yielding the right of way to pedestrians among other violations; and
- 81 seizures of “e-bikes” with most receiving summonses to appear at ECB/OATH.
We have also worked with the Department of transportation to:
- Close the Second Avenue bike lane between 68th and 59th streets from shared to partially parking-protected
- Provide a pedestrian and bike crossing for the 59th Street Queensboro Bridge planned for 2019.
- Double bike lanes from just First Avenue and 90th & 91st Street pair to include Second Avenue, 70th & 71st Street and 77th & 78th Streets in 2017.
- Add leading pedestrian intervals along York Avenue to give pedestrians a chance to cross before vehicles get the green light in 2016.
- Add “Safety neckdowns” to extend the curb and islands have been added at dangerous intersections throughout the Upper East Side, so pedestrians have less distance to cross.
For more information on the Mayor’s program read the New York Daily News and for more information on my office’s bike safety program visit BenKallos.com/bikesafety
5 Year Anniversary if Eric Garner's Death
 Five years ago on Staten Island, Eric Garner died after an encounter with NYPD officer Daniel Pantaleo, who put Garner in an illegal chokehold position while trying to arrest him. Garner was kept in the chokehold while he said “I can’t breathe” eleven times.
Since this terrible incident, Eric Garner’s family has been fighting for justice and has been calling for the termination of Officer Pantaleo from the NYPD. After Donald Trump’s Department of Justice declined to press charges against Officer Pantaleo, members of the City Council and the Black, Latino, Asian, and Progressive Caucus, alongside many advocates joined together at One Police Plaza to demand the firing of Pantaleo. The Caucuses also sent a joint letter restating our demands. The Black, Latino, Asian and Progressive Caucuses have also been demanding the NYPD to release all the names of the officers who were involved in Garner’s death, and that these officers also be held accountable for Garner’s death. As Co-Chair of the Progressive Caucus, I am proud to stand with my brothers and sisters in the Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus in support of justice. For more information on this issue read the release from New York City’s Council Progressive Caucus at NYCProgressives.com/press-statements
MTS Safety and Improvements
 After there were two collisions involving garbage trucks in the weeks after the MTS opened, I wrote a letter with Congress Member Carolyn Maloney, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, State Senator Liz Krueger, and Assembly Member Seawright to the Department of Transportation (DOT) calling attention to the issue hoping something could be done to prevent a tragedy. In July the DOT responded with a promise to install new pavement markings by the end of August to clarify movements for vehicles traveling through the intersection at 91st Street and York Avenue. Thank you to the Department of Transportation for taking a new look at this intersection. Now that the Marine Transfer Station is open it is up to all of us to stay vigilant and demand safety from the Department of Sanitation and the trucks that go in and out of the facility each and every day.
CLEANING UP GOVERNMENT
Fighting Self-Dealing by Nonprofit Contractors
 Investigative reporting by The Wall Street Journal found a questionable relationship between a nonprofit homeless services provider contracted by the city that paid over $12 million to a for-profit security company that have the same CEO. Even though the provider was required to disclose such a relationship between the two to prevent self-dealing, the Department of Homeless Services claims it was not aware. As chair of the Committee on Contracts, I am calling for a hearing to investigate nonprofit city contractors. As I told The Wall Street Journal, we should be using our tax dollars for caring for our neediest, and we shouldn’t have to worry about self-dealing. Learn more from the Wall Street Journal.
Get Big Money Out of Albany Politics
 As the author of the legislation to expand campaign finance laws and to bring a full public matching system to New York City’s elections, I applaud New York State for taking steps to do the same. In July, New York State has named appointments for its nine-person public financing commission, a step toward implementing a fairer campaign system like the one in New York City. I hope that as the commission listens to experts over the next months, they will decide on a strong matching system that will also see contributions limits decreased. I am impressed with the appointments of Mylan Denerstein, DeNora Getachew and Henry Berger who I believe will be voices for strong reforms. We need to bring the same, if not stronger campaign finance reforms, we have in New Yorker City to finally get big money out of state politics and clean up Albany. Read my full statement at Benkallos.com/press-releases
New York City Should Reimburse Non-Profits on Time
 As chair of the City Council’s Contracts Committee, I joined Council Member Helen Rosenthal in an op-ed in the Gotham Gazette about paying non-profits the city contracts with on time. Money that goes to pay for homeless, youth, seniors and the like is routinely paid late with the average a staggering 221 days. To fix this issue, Council Member Rosenthal and I have introduced legislation to help end the long delays with the City’s contracting process. Read the op-ed at Gotham Gazette.
 2019 Charter Commission Questions
On Election Day, November 5, 2019, New York City residents will get a chance to once again amend the City’s Charter by voting on ballot questions.
Over the past year I have proposed 72 recommendations for amendments to the Charter, 16 of which were included in the City Council Report to the 2019 New York City Charter Revision Commission, with 9 of my recommendation included in whole or in part by the Preliminary Staff Report. In May 9, I submitted a final fifteen recommendations on ethics, city budget, land use, elections and redistricting, and empowering the offices of the Public Advocate and Borough President. Proposals and recommendations I made were included in whole or in part in all five of the final ballot questions. Each of the five questions has multiple parts, here are the questions I fought hardest for:
- Ballot Question 3 on Ethics and Government - If passed, this would in part prohibit City elected officials and senior appointed officials from appearing before the agency they served in for two years after they leave City service, instead of the current one year.
- Ballot Question 4 - City Budget - If passed, this would in part set minimum budgets for the Public Advocate and Borough Presidents.
- Ballot Question 5 - Land Use - If passed, this would in part, ensure that for projects subject to the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure (ULURP), require the Department of City Planning (DCP) to transmit a detailed project summary to the affected Borough President, Borough Board and Community Board at least 30 days before the application is certified for public review, and to post that summary on its website.
See the full list of questions and areas covered and remember that to be eligible to vote in the November 2019 election you must have registered by Friday October 11, 2019. For more information on the suggestions I made visit BenKallos.com/charter2019
Fighting Possible Corruption at the Board of Elections
I received an alarming call from a reporter at the Staten Island Advance who had been invited by the Communications Director for the New York City Board of Elections to a fundraiser for a candidate for Mayor. I shared the reporter’s concerns that the invitation was sent by text message from a mobile phone number listed on official government communication during work hours by a director for an agency responsible for conducting fair elections. I have reported the matter to the Department of Investigations. While city employees are free to engage in political activity, it is illegal for them to use government time or resources, and I do not believe that the leadership of certain agencies like the Board of Elections should be allowed to publicly support candidates whose elections they will be overseeing. Read more in the Staten Island Advance
City and State’s Manhattan Power 100
"This Upper East Side reformer has carved out a niche as a fierce advocate for increased government transparency and bolstering the city’s campaign finance system. This year, Ben Kallos has been grabbing headlines for his push to implement larger matching funds for political candidates, a measure that was approved on the 2018 ballot. The second-term councilman is also a champion of education, affordable housing and public health – and he invites constituents to engage him in conversation."
I am proud that our achievements in making government more honest and transparent were recognized in City & State’s 2019 Manhattan Power 100 List.
OVERDEVELOPMENT AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Towers Crowd Yorkville
 I joined several members of Community Board 8 Manhattan in the New York Times speaking out against buildings for billionaires that are displacing affordable housing and the character of Yorkville along with it.
“Everyone in the city who cares about the cultural identity of their neighborhood should be watching Yorkville as a warning sign,” said City Councilman Ben Kallos, a grandson of Jewish Hungarian immigrants whose district includes Yorkville. “The last thing a residential neighborhood needs is more glass towers for billionaires.”
The real hero of the story is Jeremy Schaller, of Shaller and Weber, a German sausage and sauerkraut landmark, who has refused $24 million from developers. Read more in the New York Times.
Working to Close More Zoning Loopholes
 After I toured Manhattan community boards in April, to support closing the mechanical voids loophole that allows developers to build extra tall buildings filled with empty spaces, the City Council took a big step by approving a zoning amendment that counts mechanical voids exceeding 25 feet towards a building’s usable space in residential areas of Manhattan. The council also restricted developers from creating mechanical voids within 75 feet of one another.
Now as reported by Curbed and New York County Politics, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and I continue to fight for stricter oversight on other types of voids and zoning loopholes, such as recognizing unenclosed voids, but this time in commercial districts in Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn. The zoning change would be to create more living space for everyday New Yorkers instead of billionaires. In July I testified in favor of stricter zoning regulations at a hearing held by Borough President Brewer stating that we need more buildings that fit into the context of their neighborhood and that have efficient spaces. When people would rather build empty spaces than affordable spaces, that’s a problem. Read the coverage in Curbed.
Third Party Transfer Program
 I questioned Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Louise Carrol and her Deputy about what has become the controversial Third-Party Program. TPT is a program that gives New York City the ability to transfer ownership of a distressed property to a third party with the means to rehabilitate and maintain the property.
Much of the program has become a controversial topic because the properties that have been taken over by the City have largely been owned by people of color and are often single-family homes or smaller buildings owned by regular New Yorkers and not developers.
At the hearing, I asked how the non-profits that are given the properties were chosen and if the process was transparent. As the efforts to find out how parts of the TPT program went in the wrong direction it is important to find out is any of the for-profit corporations that received properties were donors to political campaigns. Watch me question HPD as I look for transparency in their processes at BenKallos.com/videos
New Affordable Housing Opportunity
 Are you currently looking for a new residence in the Triborough area? Two newly constructed affordable units at 860 East 35th Street Apartments are open to applications. There is currently a one-bedroom and two-bedroom unit available. The application deadline is August 6. More affordable units NYC Housing Connect are available for applications at https://a806-housingconnect.nyc.gov/
PARKS AND EDUCATION
Lighthouse Park
 On July 3rd, RIOC issued RFP#19-36423 Lighthouse Park Design. This request lays out the project objective for RIOC’s approximately $11 million investment in transformative capital improvements at Lighthouse Park. The project will expand the usable area of the park by repurposing the parking lots into active park space that will better serve the community. In the interest of adding more green space to District 5, I contributed $700,000 in discretionary funding to RIOC’s restoration of Lighthouse Park. The targeted completion date of all new additions and renovations is October 2020. More information on the RFP can be found by clicking this link on our website. https://ny-rioc.civicplus.com/216/RFPs-Bids
Nellie Bly Statue for Roosevelt Island
 New York City needs to build more monuments to honor women of the past, and 19th Century journalist Nellie Bly will be one of them. Nellie is best known for getting herself admitted into Blackwell Island’s (now Roosevelt Island) asylum center in order to write an exposé on the conditions for female patients. Staff used harsh methods like freezing baths and solitary confinement to try to cure the women who had mental illnesses. Her piece resulted in improvements to the asylum center, including increased funding and firing of abusive workers. It also ignited a national dialogue about mental health, especially how it affects women. A monument will be dedicated to Nellie on Roosevelt Island, but the specific location is not determined yet. The project has a $500,000 budget and its construction is scheduled to take place next spring. Read more in The City.
Wage Parity for Pre-K Teachers Achieved
After years of advocacy which included protesting, marching and putting pressure on the Mayor and his administration, New York City finally reached a deal to bring wage parity for the hardworking early childhood education professionals working as Pre-K teachers for community-based organizations throughout New York City. Many of the teachers who were paid less than their colleagues working for the Department of Education were women of color, making this equal fight one with added sensitivity.
With the new agreement, which was announced on July 9 hundreds of Pre-K teachers working for non-profits could see pay increases of up to $20,000 a year. The full cost of this deal, which still leaves out Pre-K teachers who are not part of a union, will be about $15 million to the City.
Thank you to those in the Council, coalition, and labor groups who stood firm on their beliefs for equal pay and made this possible. It is important to bring inequality to an end for the teachers who instruct and care for our children everyday. Read my full statement at BenKallos.com/press-release
Teens on Community Boards
 In 2015, we passed legislation that allows 16-year-olds to serve on community boards. As I told Our Town, every year I try to appoint one 16-year-old to the board since I believe that the community boards need to be reflective of all voices. According to the U.S. Census, 20% of our City is under 18.
Teens are a part of the community and have the right to share their neighborhood concerns, and our current youth board members are doing an excellent job. Jack Zimmerman from Eleanor Roosevelt High School has voiced his concern over transportation and green spaces, while Cece King and Dorothea Newman has invested their time into helping increase traffic for small business. Over the years these individuals have proved how valuable it can be to include the younger generation in discussing the future of our neighborhoods. Learn more about the work young people can and are doing on community boards from reporting in Our Town
Congressional App Challenge with Carolyn Maloney
Do you enjoy coding and learning, or have a child attending middle or high school in the district who likes to code? If so, sign up for the Congressional App Challenge, which brings together students who have a strong interest in STEM, specifically in computer science. Students will have the opportunity to create and submit their own app, with each challenge based on their district. The winner of the challenge will receive official recognition from his or her member of Congress and his or her app is displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year. You can sign up at https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/1782-2/
SPECIAL EVENTS
Captain Marvel at John Jay Park
Captain Marvel (2019) will screen on Saturday, August 24 in John Jay Park as part of Free Movies Under the Stars. Come early for free ice cream, popcorn, and face painting.
Captain Marvel
Saturday, August 24, 2019, 7:30pm - 11:00pm
John Jay Park, Cherokee Place & East 77th Street
RSVP
National Night Out Against Crime
Join the NYPD and me for a citywide gathering against crime on Tuesday, August 6.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships to help make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. It seeks to strengthen the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement, fostering a true sense of community.
This year I will be meeting the NYPD’s 17th, 19th, and 23rd precincts at various times during the evening. There will be games and activities for kids, and lots of information on ways to work with the NYPD to keep your neighborhood safe. Find a National Night Out Against Crime location in our neighborhood.
HPD in Your District - Get Your Housing Questions Answered
The Department of Housing and Preservation will be at my district office on August 7th from 10am to 6pm. This is your chance to meet directly with the agency that regulates housing in New York City. They will be here to help residents with general housing question including:
- Applying for Affordable Housing
- Filing Housing Complaints
- Registering Buildings
- Remedy Code Violations
HPD in Your District
Wednesday, August 7,10am-6pm
244 East 93rd Street, First Floor
RSVP
AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Taking on Climate Change with Chuck Nice
Meeting with comedian and host Chuck Nice to discuss climate change. We discussed possible collaboration on projects to raise awareness about climate change.
Assembly Member Epstein Housing Forum
Joined Assembly Member Epstein, a former housing advocate and tenant member of the Rent Guidelines Board, at his Housing Forum.
Proclamation for Former NYPD Commanding Officer Jack McManus
Awarding former NYPD Commanding Officer Jack McManus with a Proclamation in honor of his retirement as Chief/Director of Public Safety on Roosevelt Island.
Celebrating Harlem Week
Former Governor David Paterson and I at Harlem Week hosted by Gracie Mansion
City of Water Day
On a scenic July day, I joined scores of people, including Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and Council Member Carlina Rivera, in launching the Waterfront Alliance’s City of Water Day
COMMUNITY
Equifax Settlement: Check for your Name
 Credit reporting giant Equifax is on the hook for $700 million in restitution to the American public as a result of the historic data breach in 2017. The Federal Trade Commission has ruled that the 147 million Americans who personal credit data was compromised are eligible to be compensated. Among the ways people will be compensated are free credit monitoring for 10 years or a one-time payment of $125.
Check eligibility and get your free credit monitoring or $125 at EquifaxBreachSettlement.com
Electronic Vehicle Chargers Coming to the Upper East Side
 The New York City Department of Transportation (DOT) is working to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles (EV) throughout the City. Studies have shown that lack of available charging is an impediment to the purchase of EVs. Locating chargers at the curb provides support for current and future EV owners at a cost-competitive with gasoline and cleaner air for all community members.
DOT is continuing to work in partnership with Con Edison to install 50 public Level 2 EV chargers at curbside locations across the five boroughs. The chargers will be in place for four years as part of a demonstration project, which will include an evaluation. They will be checking the following locations within the Upper East Side for feasibility, with a maximum of 8 chargers (16 parking spots) in Manhattan.
DOT continues to welcome your feedback on these locations. A public portal where people can learn more about the City’s EV initiatives and suggest locations for future EV chargers: www.nyc.gov/charge with over 400 comments/locations so far.
Below are the locations we will be checking for feasibility in the coming weeks:
| street_name |
From |
To |
CB |
| EAST 67 STREET |
YORK AVENUE |
1 AVENUE |
108 |
| EAST 66 STREET |
YORK AVENUE |
1 AVENUE |
108 |
| EAST 90 STREET |
YORK AVENUE |
1 AVENUE |
108 |
| EAST 78 STREET |
PARK AVENUE |
LEXINGTON AVENUE |
108 |
| EAST END DRIVE |
EAST 88 STREET |
EAST 86 STREET |
108 |
| EAST 83 STREET |
3 AVENUE |
LEXINGTON AVENUE |
108 |
Remembering Hector Figueroa
 Hector Figueroa, President of 32BJ SEIU, the building service workers union, passed away unexpectedly earlier this month at age 57. Hector was someone I had worked directly with over the years and I considered him a friend. I have nothing but respect for him and the work he did on behalf of his members and all working New Yorkers. Hector dedicated his life to improving the conditions for working people, which reflected his belief that all workers deserve to be treated with respect. His dedication to the working class has inspired many people over the years, including myself. My condolences to his family and loved ones. His memory will live on in the accomplishments he achieved for countless working-class New Yorkers.
Fresh Food Box
 It is important that every New Yorker has access to fresh produce to maintain a healthy lifestyle, which is why I think that GrowNYC’s Fresh Food Box and NYC Health + Hospitals is a match made in heaven, as I told Amsterdam News.
This partnership empowers the hospital's employees, patients, and anyone in and around the facilities to take advantage of healthy options. The Fresh Food Box accepts various alternative payment methods including EBT/SNAP, Health Bucks, Greenmarket Bucks, Green Checks, Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program coupons, and Women, Infants, and Children coupons. My office’s Fresh Food Box program continues this season. Pickup and order days are every Thursdays from 3:30pm to 6:30pm. See our full schedule Fresh Food Box at BenKallos.com/events
Stanley Isaacs’ Young Adult Literacy Program
 The Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center is home to the Young Adult Literacy Program. The goal of the program is to help young people between the ages of 16 to 24 increase their math and reading scores so they can enter a high-school equivalency program. Students are given a $100-a-week stipend and the center has open seats for the first session beginning on August 12, 2019. Enrollment is open until August 29, 2019. If you know a young person who might benefit from this program, please call Robert Ramos at 347-241-5098.
Sundays at JASA
Sundays at JASA is a one-of-a-kind, college-level continuing education program for adults 50+. Join the classes this fall at John Jay College for courses in politics, current events, acting, drawing, creative writing, crossword puzzle construction, exercise, film, opera appreciation and much more! Sundays at JASA Lunchtime Lecture Series will include journalist Craig Unger and bestselling author Charles Kaiser, among others. Open house on Sunday, September 15th from 10am-2pm at John Jay College. Classes begin on Sunday, September 22nd. RSVP requested for open house. Registration information, location details, and a full description of courses available at www.jasa.org/events/sundays-at-jasa-fall-2019. Contact Alexandra Collier at 212-273-5304 or [email protected] for program information or to RSVP for open house.
Stargazing on Roosevelt Island
For three nights only in August, you will be able to Stargaze on Roosevelt Island. Families are encouraged to visit Cornell Tech’s Roosevelt Island Campus on August 10th, 12th, and 13th. From 7:30 to 8:00pm.
Families with children can join Ms. Jen for storytime before sunset. For exact night confirmations and more information be sure to follow iDig2Learn, the New York Public Library and OBAstronomy on Twitter & Instagram: @RooseveltIslandLib @obastronomy @iDig2Learn @cornell_tech
RESOURCES
NYC Recycling Guides
 The Manhattan Solid Waste Advisory Board is offering new waste management guides for building owners, property managers, superintendents, and interested residents in high rise buildings. Building a culture of recycling and composting in multifamily buildings can help avoid fines, save money, and maintain a cleaner building. Read these guides online at http://www.manhattanswab.org
How to Beat the Heat: A Guide for Seniors
New York City experienced a sweltering heatwave in July when temperatures reached over 100 degrees. As we head into August it is important to remember that seniors are particularly vulnerable in high temperatures and humid conditions. Residents should know that there are ways to protect yourself in the heat.
First, everyone should check the temperature and humidity levels during these hot days. If the heat index is 95 degrees or above, it becomes dangerous. When the temperature hits those levels, stay home in the AC or contact 311 to find a cooling center. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks. Pull your curtains or blinds down and avoid using stoves and ovens. Lastly, take a cold shower to cool yourself down!
Symptoms of heat illness include confusion, nausea or vomiting, trouble breathing, rapid strong pulse, weakness, or dizziness. If you experience any of these symptoms, please call 911 immediately.
NYC Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Opportunity
 The New York City Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has two scholarship opportunities for Hispanic students at Fordham’s University Graduate School of Arts.
The first scholarship opportunity is two GSAS Centennial Scholarships, each of which total approximately U.S. $20,686, and consist of the following elements.
- A half-tuition scholarship of up to 12 credits during the academic year and up to 3 credits in the summer.
- Eligibility to participate in the Fordham Student Health Insurance Plan. GSAS will contribute up to U.S. $1,066 if you choose to participate in this plan.
- This merit-based funding package is awarded for two academic years and must be renewed annually. Renewal is contingent upon, among other factors, meeting GSAS standards for satisfactory academic performance and progress.
The second scholarship opportunity is one GSAS Centennial Scholarship which totals approximately U.S. $41,372, and consists of the following elements:
- A full-tuition scholarship of up to 24 credits during the academic year and up to 6 credits in the summer.
- Eligibility to participate in the Fordham Student Health Insurance Plan. GSAS will contribute up to U.S. $2,132 if you choose to participate in this plan.
- This merit-based funding package is awarded for two academic years and must be renewed annually. Renewal is contingent upon, among other factors, meeting GSAS standards for satisfactory academic performance and progress.
To apply for the scholarships, visit https://gradadmissions.fordham.edu/apply/.
Financial Planning Day at NYPL
The New York Public Library will be holding a Financial Planning Day on September 20, 2019 from 10am to 5pm at 188 Madison Ave at 34th Street. The event will feature:
- 12 workshops on a broad array of financial and life planning issues
- free financial, Medicare and/or credit crisis counseling
- the opportunity to ask questions of various government representatives at our Financial Fair
- the opportunity to learn how to use some of NYPL's databases.
More information on each of the programs can be found by calling 917-ASK-NYPL (917-275-6975) or by visiting www.nypl.org/about/locations/sibl/financial-planning-day
Military Mondays
The next session of Military Mondays will be held on August 5 from 1:00pm – 3:30pm in the Atrium of the Manhattan Campus of the VA NY Harbor Healthcare System at 423 East 23rd Street.
Veterans who may need legal assistance in the areas of disability applications, housing concerns, child support modifications, or life planning should call Legal Services NYC’s hotline at 917-661-4500 to schedule an appointment.
Since its inception in August 2016, Military Mondays has assisted 295 veterans at 31 clinics. The Military Mondays clinic dates for the remainder of 2019 are August 5th, September 9th, October 7th, November 4th and December 2nd.
Free English Classes
The Workers United Education Program is offering Free English Classes at 83 Maiden Lane, 12th floor. Classes are offered on Weekday Evenings 5:30pm – 8:30 pm, with High Intermediate/Advanced classes on Monday and Wednesday, and Beginner/Intermediate classes on Tuesday and Thursday.
In addition, the WUEP offers Saturday classes, from 10 am – 1 pm for High Intermediate/Advanced and 1:30 – 4:30 pm for Beginner/Intermediate. Classes begin on August 17th, 19th, and 20th. Computer classes are also available. Students must be 21 years old and must register before attending classes.
Please call (212) 229-9221 for more information or to call for an appointment.
OFFICE UPDATES
Free Legal Clinics
Need a lawyer? Every month I sponsor legal clinics where you can get free legal advice in my District Office at 244 East 93rd Street from 3pm-6pm:
- General Civil Law, 3rd Tuesday
- Life Planning Clinic, 3rd Wednesday
- Family Law and Domestic Violence, 1st Tuesday
- Housing Clinics, Every Monday and 1st Wednesday
Please call my office at 212-860-1950 in advance to schedule your appointment.
Here to Help
We are here to help. My social work team can help you find out what services you are eligible for and assist you in your application. Some examples include:
- Seniors: Medicare savings, Meals-on-Wheels, Access-A-Ride
- Housing: searching for affordable units, free legal housing clinic at my office
- Job Resources: training resources and assistance, unemployment benefits
- Families: Universal Pre-K, Head Start, After-School programs
- Finances: cash assistance, tax credits, home energy assistance
- Nutrition: WIC, free meals for all ages
Please also call us at 212-860-1950 or email us at [email protected] with any unresolved 311 complaints.
Mobile District Hours
Get assistance wherever in the district you are when we bring our office to you. Please join us at monthly mobile district hours from 11am–2pm:
Ben in Your Building
The "Ben in Your Building Program" is a chance to discuss issues of importance to you and your neighbors in person. Please consider inviting me to your cooperative or condominium annual meeting or tenant’s association meeting, and I will be happy to join you. Over the past year, I have visited several buildings to discuss matters of importance in the neighborhood, including street furniture, road conditions, homeless outreach, and sanitation issues. Please schedule a "Ben in Your Building" today by calling 212-860-1950 or email [email protected].
Community Boards
(No Major Board Meetings for August)
NYPD Events
17th, 19th, and 23rd Precinct Community Council
Summer Sabbatical
Neighborhood and Tenant Associations
First Wednesday, 8/7: Roosevelt Island Residents Association Common Council Meeting
8:00 pm-10:00 pm, Good Shepherd (Downstairs), 543 Main Street
Second Wednesday, 8/14: Lexington Houses Tenant Association
6:00pm, 1539 Lexington Avenue
Second Tuesday, 8/13: Stanley Isaacs Tenant Associations
7:00 pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street
Third Tuesday, 8/20: Holmes Towers Tenant Association
7:00 pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street
Events for Adults:
8/1: 1 on 1 Tech Help
12:00pm, Webster Library Auditorium
Work one-on-one with a staff member. Use this time to improve Internet skills, navigate emails or Microsoft Office, or bring in your device for an e-reading tutorial. Space is limited to 6 20-minute slots per session. Phone or in-person.
8/1: 1 on 1 Tech Help
1:00pm, 96th Street Library
Are you having trouble with your email? Don't know how to cut and paste? Curious about Twitter? Is your computer broken? Bring your technology questions and get individualized help. Assistance is offered on a first-come-first-served basis. First come, first served
8/1: Film - THE WOMEN (1939)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
The Women (1939) 133 min., b&w, George Cukor, Dir. Stars: Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, Rosalind Russell. A study of the lives and romantic entanglements of various interconnected women. ADMISSION FREE
8/1: Book Discussion Group - Memoirs That Make a Difference: The Last Girl by Nadia Murad
6:00pm, Webster Library
Join us for the Memoirs That Make a Difference book discussion group. On August 1, 2019 at 6pm, we'll discuss The Last Girl by Nadia Murad. Registration is not required. Copies of this title can be reserved online, over the phone, or at your local branch.
8/3: Music - Handel’s RINALDO recital by New York Opera Forum
1:00pm, 96th Street Library
New York Opera Forum performs the complete opera of RINALDO by Gioachino Rossini. A live musical recital performed in concert with piano accompaniment. The musical program is cosponsored with New York Opera Forum which was founded by Richard Nechamkin in 1983 to give classically trained singers the opportunity to learn and perform standard operatic repertoire in the original languages. ADMISSION FREE
8/3: Cello Alone
3:00pm, Webster Library
Be soothed by the sounds of music! Join cellist Tomas Ulrich as he plays selections from various composers.
8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27: Adult Coloring
11:00am, 96th Street Library
When we color, it brings out our inner child. We are reminded of the days when life was simple when we worried less. Coloring is where you might expect to see children, but you can also find adults, immersing themselves in patterns of mandalas, curved flowers, and runaway stems; this is a world they create and escape to. Come join us and try it out at the 96th street Library.
8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27: Adult Coloring
11:00am, Roosevelt Island Library
Come to the library and relax by coloring some beautiful artwork. Feel your troubles and bitter cares melt away at each stroke of your pencil!
8/6, 8/13, 8/20: Summer Sandbox Series
4:00pm, Carl Schurz Park playground on 84th Street
8/7: Mindfulness Meditation
12:30pm, NY Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center 525 East 68th Street
Join Linda Van Ness for the practice of present moment awareness.
8/7: Combating Anti - Semitism A discussion with leaders in New York State
6:15-8:30 Lenox Hill Neighborhood House 331 East 70 Street
Join for a discussion with experts in the Jewish Community to speak on combating the rise of anti-Semitic acts and attitudes
8/7: Sunset Film Festival - A League of Their Own
8:30pm, Carl Schurz Park basketball and hockey courts
Come for free popcorn, Insomnia Cookies, and the big screen. In the event of a threat of bad weather, please call the Conservancy office (212-459-4455), or visit the park’s website the day of the scheduled screening.
8/8: Film - BABES ON BROADWAY (1941)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Babes on Broadway (1941) 118 min., b&w, Busby Berkeley, Dir. Stars: Mickey Rooney, Judy Garland, Fay Bainter. Aspiring young actors put on a show to aid children in a settlement house. ADMISSION FREE
8/10: 16MM Film Nights - Start a Revolution Film Series: Promises to Keep (1987)
2:00pm, Webster Library
This documentary charts the 4-year struggle of activist Mitch Snyder and the Community for Creative Non-Violence to obtain housing for the homeless. Snyder mounted an extended hunger strike on behalf of the poor in Washington DC in order to obtain federal funding for the rehabilitation of a government building as a shelter. This film is from 1987 and is 56 minutes long. Film courtesy of the Library for the Performing Arts's Reserve Film and Video Collection.
8/12, 8/26: Yorkville Writing Circle
5:15pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Want to meet local writers? Commit to a writing schedule? Practice your craft through writing prompts? Read original work to get and give feedback? Then come to the biweekly meetings of the Yorkville Writing Circle! Writers of all genres and styles, at all levels, are welcome to participate. No sign-ups required. For adults (ages 18 and up). For more information, please email: [email protected].
8/14: Adult Game Night
6:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
You are only as old as you feel so why not act like a kid again and join in on some classic games that will take you back to your childhood.
8/17: Organic Gardening Workshop: Harvesting & Preparing The Garden For Fall
12:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
RI Living Library & Think Park and RI Public Library Present FREE Monthly Workshops on Organic Gardening Open To All Ages Including Parents & Children! This workshop will demonstrate how to know when to harvest your vegetables, flowers, and/or herbs. Additionally, we will learn about seed saving, mulching, pruning and drying herbs for use throughout the year.
8/19: Book Discussion: Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen
5:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Come and join the Jane Austen Book Club in on the conversation of the book Sense and Sensibility. Copies of the book will be available to borrow at the circulation desk with your library card.
8/22: Film - THREE SMART GIRLS (1936)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Three Smart Girls (1936) 84 min., b&w, Henry Koster Dirs. Stars: Deanna Durbin, Binnie Barnes, Charles Winninger, Alice Brady. Three daughters of separated parents connive to get them back together. ADMISSION FREE
8/22: 16MM Film Nights - Reel Classics: The Shop Around the Corner
4:00pm, Webster Library
Webster Library Presents: The Shop Around the Corner Two employees at a gift shop can barely stand each other, without realizing that they are falling in love through the post as each other's anonymous pen pal. Directed by: Ernst Lubitsch 99 minutes; 1940 Film will be shown on 16mm film reel, borrowed by the Library for the Performing Arts’ Reserve Film and Video Collection.
8/24: Music - Rossini’s SEMIRAMIDE recital by New York Opera Forum
1:00pm, 96th Street Library
New York Opera Forum performs the complete opera of SEMIRAMIDE by Gioachino Rossini. A live musical recital performed in concert with piano accompaniment. The musical program is cosponsored with New York Opera Forum which was founded by Richard Nechamkin in 1983 to give classically trained singers the opportunity to learn and perform standard operatic repertoire in the original languages. ADMISSION FREE.
8/24: Instant Shakespeare Company: Henry the Sixth Part 3
1:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
This is the Instant Shakespeare Company’s 20th Season of presenting free readings of all of Shakespeare’s plays annually. Join us for their dramatic reading of Henry the Sixth Part 3. All ages are welcome.
8/24: Webster @ the Movies: Everything, Everything
2:00pm, Webster Library
Webster’s @ The Movies Presents: Everything, Everything Saturday, August 24th @ 2PM Maddy is a smart, curious and imaginative 18-year-old who is unable to leave the protection of the hermetically-sealed environment within her house because of an illness. Olly is the boy next door who won't let that stop them from being together. Gazing through windows and talking only through texts, Maddy and Olly form a deep bond that leads them to risk everything to be together, even if it means losing everything.
8/27: Computer-Generated Poetry
4:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Beep-boop, it's time for the robots to sing! In this session we'll command our computers to compose poetry, then take our digital creations and edit them with a human touch.
8/29: Film - WHEN LADIES MEET (1941)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
When Ladies Meet (1941) 105 min., b&w, Robert Z. Leonard, Dir. Stars: Joan Crawford, Robert Taylor, Greer Garson. A popular female novelist falls in love with her married publisher. ADMISSION FREE
8/29: Free Screening: Avengers: Endgame (2019)
5:30pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Join us for a free screening of Avengers: Endgame! After the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War (2018), the universe is in ruins. With the help of remaining allies, the Avengers assemble once more in order to reverse Thanos' actions and restore balance to the universe.
Events for Kids:
8/1, 8/8, 8/15, 8/22, 8/29: Early Literacy - Family Storytime
11:00am, 11:30am, 11:45am, Webster Library
Toddlers from birth to 3 years and their parents/caregivers can enjoy interactive stories, action songs, fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood. There is a limit of 15 children and their caregivers. Tickets are given out the morning of the program on a first come, first serve basis. Times of the programs are approximate.
8/1: Early Literacy - Preschool Story Time
2:00pm, Yorkville Library Children’s Room
Come meet your friends at the library and listen to some of your favorite picture books. It's a great way to end a busy day. Ages 3 and older.
8/2, 8/9, 8/16, 8/23, 8/30: Learn To Play Chess at Webster
3:00pm, Webster Library Auditorium
Are you a chess champion? You want to show off your best moves against other chess fans? Whether you're a chess master or just starting out, come join us for some board time Fridays at 3 p.m. Learn how to play, practice your skills, or to play a game. All materials will be provided, and an experienced instructor Timothy Mobley will lead the group. Led by Timothy Mobley.
8/3, 8/10, 8/17, 8/24: Read to our New York Therapy Dog!
10:30am, Webster Library
Come read to our therapy dog Tugboat! These licensed therapy dogs and their owners can't wait for you to come read them a story. Enjoy one-on-one, no-pressure reading time with a furry friend! Pre-registration is required for each 15-minute slot and opens 1 week in advance. For ages 5 and up. Available every Saturday!
8/3, 8/31: Math Tutorial
2:30pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Free Math tutorial for grades 2-9. Please register online for two 45-minute sessions per month. Registration for August opens Monday, July 29 at 1 pm. Registration required online.
8/5: Film - THE IRON GIANT (1999)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
The Iron Giant (1999) 86 min., color, Brad Bird, Director. A young boy befriends a giant robot from outer space that a distrustful government agent wants to destroy. ADMISSION FREE.
8/6: Book Discussion - The Bell Jar by Slyvia Plath
5:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Come and join the Controversial Classics Book Club in on the conversation of the book The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath. Copies of the book will be available to borrow at the circulation desk with your library card.
8/6, 8/13, 8/20: Early Literacy - Free Play
4:00pm, Webster Library
Join us on Tuesday afternoons for a fun chance to socialize with other kids from the community! Toys are provided. Please note: This program is for both caregiver and child. It is not a structured program. *Take care to supervise children at all times.
8/7: Kid Flicks
3:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Join us in our community room for our children's film showing. Watch short films based on popular picture books. The perfect way to meet up with friends and end a busy day. All films subject to last-minute substitutions. Showing: Winnie The Pooh & The Honey Tree.
8/8, 8/15: Early Literacy - Preschool Story Time
2:00pm, Yorkville Library Children’s Room
Come meet your friends at the library and listen to some of your favorite picture books. It's a great way to end a busy day. Ages 3 and older.
8/8: Summer Reading - Wildlife Superheroes
4:00pm, Yorkville Library
Have you ever wondered why some of our most popular superheroes are often named after animals? Spiderman, Batman, and Aquaman all share traits with their particular animal namesake whether it be great strength, great stealth, or the ability to live underwater. A visit by a New Canaan Nature Center naturalist will give participants an up-close look at several creatures with an array of “super” qualities that makes each a “wildlife superhero” in its own right.
8/10: ELA Tutorial
11:00am, Roosevelt Island Library
Free ELA tutorial for grades 2-9. Please register online for two 45-minute sessions per month. Registration for August opens Monday, July 29 at 1 pm. Registration required online.
8/12: Film - ALADDIN (1992)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Aladdin (1992) 90 min., color, Ron Clements, John Musker, Directors. A kindhearted street urchin and a power-hungry Grand Vizier vie for a magic lamp that has the power to fulfill their wishes. ADMISSION FREE
8/12, 8/19: Preschool Storytime: Petite Picasso
4:00pm, 96th Street Library
Read aloud and messy art projects for young children. Wear your art clothes. Smocks will be provided. Limited to 24 participants.
8/12, 8/26: Early Literacy - Art Buffet
4:00pm, Webster Library
Let your imagination run wild! Join us for an hour of uninterrupted, creative fun. Pick and choose from our craft supplies to make a masterpiece to take home.
8/14, 8/21: Toddler Storytime
10:30am, 96th Street Library
Enjoy age-appropriate stories, rhymes, singalongs and activities for you and your toddler. This program is for toddlers and their caregivers. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For babies/pre-walkers check out Baby Storytime on Wednesdays at 11:15am.
8/14: Early Literacy - Storytime Fun!
11:00am, 11:30am, Webster Library
Join Lex, children from birth to 3 years, and their parents/caregivers for interactive stories, action songs, fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood. There is a limit of 15 children and their caregivers. Tickets are given out the morning of the program on a first-come, first-serve basis. Times of the programs are approximate. First come, first served.
8/14, 8/21: Baby Storytime
11:15am, 96th Street Library
Songs, rhymes, and simple activities for pre-walking babies and their caregivers. Caregivers should be prepared to sit on the floor and actively participate in the program. For children ages 0-1-year-old and their caregivers. For Toddlers check out Toddler Storytime on Wednesdays at 10:30 am.
8/16: Summer Reading - Urban Cowpoke Fandango
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Former NYC Urban Park Ranger Hopalong Andrew celebrates nature and the richness of city life — the energy, diversity, and sense of possibility — with the fun-loving “can-do” spirit of the American West. His programming is filled with music and movement celebrating city life and urban wildlife. For children of all ages.
8/16: August Craft Time
3:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
It's Craft Time at Yorkville!!! Drop-in for a quick craft. Bring your creativity and make something special to take home. Ages 3 and up.
8/17: ELA Tutorial
10:00am, 11:00am, Roosevelt Island Library
Free ELA tutorial for grades 2-9. Please register online for two 45-minute sessions per month. Registration for August opens Monday, July 29 at 1 pm. Registration required online.
8/17, 8/18: Pop-Up Library
11:00am, FDR Four Freedoms Park
Join us for a fun-filled weekend with this family-friendly event! Come sit outside, read, draw, play, games, and explore a curated collection of books and hands-on material.
8/19: Film - PINOCCHIO (1940)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Pinocchio (1940) 88 min., color, Ben Sharptsteen, Director. A living puppet, with the help of a cricket as his conscience, must prove he is worthy to become a real boy. ADMISSION FREE.
8/20: Summer Reading - Urban Gods and Monsters
4:30pm, Roosevelt Island Library
A Summer Reading Celebration! From ancient automatons to present-day nano-bots to futuristic droids, we learn about the long history of robots in fairy tales, science fiction stories, manga, comics, toys and big budget films. After some history and basic drawing lessons, participants will learn how to design their own droid. For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by Ivan Velez.
8/21: Summer Reading - The Mystery of the Twelve Curious Cousins
2:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
A Summer Reading Celebration: Mission Complete! Eleven-year-old Izzy loves a good mystery story, but she never thought she'd be wrapped up in an actual one in real life! When she and her family move into a new apartment, Izzy meets the Twelve Curious Cousins, a rowdy bunch who normally rule the halls of the whole building...except when they all mysteriously disappear at dusk. Where do they go? Izzy is determined to find out!
8/21: Summer Reading - Space! The Cosmos for Kids
3:00pm, Yorkville Library
A Summer Reading Celebration: Mission Complete! Space! The Cosmos for Kids is a techno-space-dance-party for children of all ages. Kids will meet aliens from outer space, sing about our solar system, participate in a rap battle with the sun and learn about the differences between revolution and rotation. Song will accompanied by hands-on, visual, and sensory experiences to help kids learn and have fun at the same time. Presented by Turtle Dance Music
8/26: Film - CHRISTOPHER ROBIN (2018)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Christopher Robin (2018) 104 min., color, Marc Foster, Dir. Stars: Ewan McGregor. A working-class family man, Christopher Robin, encounters his childhood friend Winnie the Pooh, who helps him to rediscover the joys of life. ADMISSION FREE.
8/26: Kid Flicks
4:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Join us in our community room for our children's film showing. Watch short films based on popular picture books. The perfect way to meet up with friends and end a busy day. All films subject to last-minute substitutions. Showing: Harry The Dirty Dog & Foolish Frog.
8/24, 8/27: FREE Math and ELA Tutorials
10:00am, Roosevelt Island Library
Sign up for two free math or ELA tutorials per month. Tutorials are for 45 minutes every Saturday morning or Afternoon. Registration opens at 12 pm the last Monday of the current month for the following month. Call for more information: 212-308-6243
8/27: Summer Reading - Trace the Hidden Telescope
4:00pm, 67th Street Library
A Summer Reading Celebration: Mission Complete! A playful workshop of our version of a treasure hunt. Space tools, planets, stars, are camouflaged in the room while we learn about them and other facts. Facts lead kids to discover camouflaged things and craft activities complete this educational game. Best for ages 3 to 5 years old. Presented by Intellectual Kids Club.
8/27: Summer Reading - Paper Dolls and Creatures Workshop
4:00pm, 96th Street Library
A Summer Reading Celebration! In this art workshop, you'll learn how to make your own paper dolls (or animals, action figure or superhero!) All materials will be provided. For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by Nicola McEldowney.
8/27: Summer Reading - Songs that Count
4:00pm, Webster Library
Do your kids love to count? Do they love to read books? Do they love making original hip-hop beats? Songs That Count! engages children with a fun, high-energy performance that includes exciting hands-on music, movement and counting activities. The show is crafted to be inclusive
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