View this email in your browser ([link removed])

Dear Neighbor,

It’s been a rough year and we aren’t even halfway through.

We’ve stayed home and succeeded in flattening the curve but still saw an incalculable loss of over 100,000 lives nationwide so far ([link removed]) . As of June 2, New York City saw 21,649 confirmed and probable deaths from coronavirus. Last week, we finally dipped below all the milestones the city ([link removed]) and state ([link removed]) are tracking to re-open, with a plan for Phase 1 starting on June 8th ([link removed]) . Please remember that as people continue to test positive for coronavirus, that you must still practice social distancing and wear a face covering to protect yourself and others.

The city has instituted curfews (#Curfew) in the wake of the murder of George Floyd (#Floyd) by Minneapolis police, all too reminiscent of Eric Garner pleading “I can’t breathe.” We are a nation and city in pain seeking a just world where black men will no longer die at the hands of our police. At the same time, Mayor de Blasio has proposed a budget that invests in policing our children instead of caring for them. Instead we can defund the NYPD (#Floyd) by the billion dollars of growth its budget saw since I’ve been in the Council and invest that money in education and programs known to reduce crime such as afterschool, summer camp, and youth jobs. We also need to hold bad cops accountable (#Floyd) for driving SUVs into protestors and work with the police to protect residents and protestors from those who would seek to use this time of pain to engage in violence and looting. We don’t need a “law and order president;" (#Floyd) we need a president for all Americans who will join us in saying
black lives matter. We also need to repeal 50-a (#Floyd) , a law that allows the police to withhold vital information, including body camera footage from the public.

We have a lot of work to do to heal and recover from seeing too much death for any lifetime.

It is more important than ever to protect our essential workers (#Warren2) and those who will be returning to work with “Just Cause” legislation I authored, which was recently endorsed by Senator Elizabeth Warren (#Warren2) , to protect workers who ask for safe working conditions.

Last month, we distributed free face coverings (#FreeMask) throughout the district from Roosevelt Island to East Harlem and have now partnered with local neighborhood associations (#Distribution) to continue free distributions. You can also pick up free facemasks along with grab and go meals (#FreeMask) at public schools throughout the district including Roosevelt Island. We tried to support small businesses with a town hall we held with the new Small Business Commissioner and Congress Member Carolyn Maloney (#Jonnell) and a letter co-authored with Borough President Gale Brewer and fellow East Side Council Member Keith Powers asking the city to reduce crowding outside bars and restaurants by converting parking and closing streets for safe socially distanced outdoor seating (#Helping) . Finally we joined Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams to raise awareness around Pediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome. (#PMIS)

The Council is deep in budget negotiations (#Budget) and I’ve been questioning each and every penny, finding billions in waste. From a quarter billion for iPads purchased at almost twice the market rate to another quarter-billion-dollar hotel contract (#Contracts) with $100 per day for overhead and meals including an $18 breakfast, I am looking for savings anywhere I can. This month we will be holding a hearing on Tuesday, June 23rd at noon to hear from non-profits who have been providing services to youth and seniors ([link removed]) on behalf of the city throughout the pandemic.

This coming month the Rent Guidelines Board will be vote on whether to freeze rents for over one million rent-regulated tenants and I invite you to join a town hall to learn how you can help win our third rent freeze (#Tenants) . As a resource to other parents struggling to work full time and parent full time we will host a town hall with parenting experts (#Parenting) at the 92Y, mental health experts, teachers, and administrators, to share resources on parenting during the pandemic. Department of Education will also answer questions on new grading standards and admissions to middle and high schools. The Speaker for the City Council represents all of us in making laws and negotiating the budget, and Speaker Corey Johnson will be joining us for a virtual town hall to hear from you and answer your questions (#Community) . Last but not least, please don’t forget to vote in the June Primary on Tuesday, June 23rd by absentee, early, or in person. (#Absentee)

Sorry for the longer than usual letter. It’s been a long a month. They’ve all been long months during the pandemic. We are here for you and doing the best we can. If there is anything you need, don’t hesitate to reach out.

You are all heroes, whether you are working an essential job, letting us know how we can help, partnering to distribute masks, peacefully protesting, or just staying home. Stay safe, stay healthy, and we will get through this together.

Regards,


Ben Kallos
Council Member, District 5
Most events are held online. Click for details.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Tenants' Rights Town Hall ([link removed])
Thursday, 6/4, 6pm

Parenting During the Pandemic Town Hall ([link removed])
Tuesday, 6/16, 8pm

Community Conversation with Speaker Corey Johnson ([link removed])
Thursday, 6/18, 6pm

New York Congressional and State Primary ([link removed])
Tuesday, 6/23

New York Classical Theatre: King Lear ([link removed])
Thursday, 6/25, 8pm


FREE FACE COVERING DISTRIBUTIONS
Distributions run by partners. Check details before attending.
86th St. Neighborhood Assoc ([link removed]) .
Wednesday, 6/3, 11:30am

East 79th St. Neighborhood Assoc. & CERT Division 3 ([link removed])
Thursday, 6/4, 5pm

Carter Burden Network Leonard Covello Senior Center ([link removed])
Friday, 6/5, 11:30am–1pm

East 72nd St. Neighborhood Assoc. ([link removed])
Saturday, 6/6, 11am–12pm

Carnegie Hill Neighbors ([link removed])
Wednesday, 6/10, 3pm


MONTHLY EVENTS
First Friday ([link removed])
Friday, 6/5, 8am – 10am

Drag Queen Story Hour (#DQSH)
Saturday, June 20, 10am


TABLE OF CONTENTS
(If you experience trouble with the links below, read in your browser ([link removed]) )

HEADLINES
1. Citywide Curfew Now in Effect (#Curfew)
2. George Floyd, Defund the NYPD, Free Speech, Donald Trump, Police Misconduct, and Reform (#Floyd)
3. Vote in June by Absentee, Early, or in Person (#Absentee)

CORONAVIRUS
4. Senator Warren Endorses Essential Workers Bill of Rights Ahead of Hearing (#Warren2)
5. Free Mask Distribution Across the District (#FreeMask)
6. Pandemic Tenants Rights Town Hall and Fighting to Freeze Rents (#Pandemic)
7. A FREE Covid-19 Testing Site Near You (#TestingSite)

CITY BUDGET
8. Identifying Millions in City Savings on Covid-19 Hotel Room Contract (#Contracts)
9. Questioning City’s Spending at Budget Hearing (#Budget)

INVITES
10. Tenants Know Your Rights Town Hall (Virtual) (#Tenants)
11. Virtual First Friday (Past and Next) (#Friday)
12. Parenting During the Pandemic (#Parenting)
13. Community Conversation Town Hall (#Community)
14. Face Mask Distribution Through Community Partners (#Distribution)
15. Drag Queen Story Hour (#DQSH)
16. NY Classical Theater (#Classical)

JOBS AND SMALL BUSINESSES
17. Helping Our Local Business by Providing Places to Socially Distance on Streets (#Helping)
18. Support for Small Businesses from Commissioner Jonnel Doris and Congress Member Maloney (#Jonnell)

EDUCATION & VIRTUAL LEARNING
19. Questioning Chancellor Carranza on Reopening Schools, Billions Spent on iPads and More (#Carranza)
20. Rallying to Educate Parents on Pediatric Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome with BP Adams (#PMIS)
21. Rallying to Save the City’s Summer Youth Education Program (#SYEP)
22. PUMP Initiative Launches Free Virtual Learning Program (Virtual Learning) (#PUMP)
23. Literacy Inc. Offering Online Programming for Early Literacy (Virtual Learning) (#LINC)

TRANSPORTATION
24. Getting Streets Open for Safe Outdoor Social Distancing (#OpenStreet)
25. Talking Post Covid-19 Recovery with NYers for Safer Streets (#NYFSS)
26. New York Road Runners launch NYRR Striders at Home (Virtual Learning) (#NYRR)

FOOD & ENVIRONMENT
27. Improving Nutritional Standards of the Food We Give Our Most Vulnerable (#Nutrition)
28. Save our Compost Digital Town Hall (#Compost)
29. Calling for Crisis Preparedness at the Waterfront Alliance Virtual Symposium (#waterfront)
30. Discussing the Future of Food Policy at the 2020 Food Systems Summit (#Food)
31. Food for Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center Seniors (#Isaacs)

COMMUNITY
32. LiveOn NY Virtual Rally for 25th Aging Advocacy Day (#LiveON)
33. Ben in Your Building (#BIYB)
34. Five New Community Board Appointments (#CB)
35. Chinese-American Planning Council Annual Advocacy Day (#CPC)
36. New York Junior League Town Hall (#NYJL)
37. Virtual Tank Gala (#Tank)

RESOURCES & ONLINE SERVICES
38. The Shed Launches New Digital Commissioning Program “Up Close” (Arts Resource) (#Shed)
39. NAMI-NYC Constituent Mental Health Services (Health Service) (#Nami)
40. Yorkville Little Library Community (#Yorkville)
41. Moving For Life Dance Exercise Classes Online (Arts Resource) (#Dance)
42. The Samaritans’ Mental Health Wellness Support Line (Health Service) (#Samaritans)
43. Lottery Opens Mixed-income Luxury Apartments on Roosevelt Island (Online Housing Resource) (#Lottery)
44. New York Legal Assistance Group Launches NY Covid-19 Legal Resource Hotline (Legal Resource) (#Legal)

OFFICE UPDATE
45. Free Legal Clinics (#Clinic)
46. Here to Help (#Help)
47. Ben in Your Building (#Building)
48. Help the Homeless (#Homeless)

[link removed] York City is imposing an 8pm to 5am curfew through Sunday, June 8th. Thousands of NYPD officers will be out enforcing the curfew citywide. Exemptions for the curfew include healthcare workers, emergency and medical technicians, first responders, essential workers going to or from work, homeless individuals, those seeking medical attention or supplies. Learn more about from the FAQ on the Curfew Order ([link removed]) .

[link removed] we seek to heal from coronavirus, old wounds from the death of Eric Garner saying “I can’t breathe” as we watched him killed on camera at the hands of a police officer have been re-opened with the killing of George Floyd, down to his final words. We are a nation and city in pain seeking a just world where black men will no longer die at the hands of our police.

Mayor de Blasio has proposed a budget that invests in policing our children instead of caring for them. We need to defund the NYPD by the billion dollars of growth its budget saw since I’ve been in the Council and invest that money in education and programs known to reduce crime such as afterschool, summer camp, and youth jobs. We also need to hold bad cops accountable for driving SUVs into protestors while working with the police to protect residents and protestors from those who would seek to use this time of pain to engage in violence and looting. We don’t need a “law and order president;” we need a President for all of America who will join us in saying black lives matter. We also need to repeal 50-a a law that allows the police to withhold vital information including body camera footage from the public.

Read more of my statement on Medium ([link removed]) .

The Primary is finally here and you can vote three different ways.

Absentee

[link removed] ballot applications have now been mailed to all New Yorkers following an order from Governor Cuomo. I called on the Governor to make it easier to vote by mail in an op-ed I co-authored with Gotham Gazette ([link removed]) ’s Jarret Berg earlier this month, and I happily praised the governor ([link removed]) when he took key steps to make voting by mail easier. You may now vote by mail in the Federal State Primary on Tuesday, June 23, 2020.

You MUST APPLY for an absentee ballot. You do not have to wait for an application to be sent by mail. I strongly encourage you to apply NOW by calling 866-VOTE-NYC for a postage-paid application or downloading the form at vote.nyc/page/absentee-voting.

When applying, you must check off “temporary illness,” and submit by fax (in New York County to 646-638-2047 or email [email protected]) or mail postmark by Tuesday, June 16, 2020. You will receive your absentee ballot up to 32 days before the election and it must be postmarked by Monday, June 22, 2020.

To Apply for a Ballot:
* Online - NYCabsentee.com ([link removed])
* Email application to [email protected]
* Fax application to 212-487-5349
* Mail application to local borough office
* Call 1-866-VOTE-NYC (1-866-868-3692)

Early Voting

If you haven't requested your absentee ballot in time and you wish to avoid Election Day crowds I recommend that you vote early. You can learn more at Vote.nyc. ([link removed])

Early Voting Days and Hours (June 13 - June 21):
* Saturday, June 13 - 10 AM to 4 PM
* Sunday, June 14 - 10 AM to 4 PM
* Monday, June 15 - 7 AM to 3 PM
* Tuesday, June 16 - 12 PM to 8 PM
* Wednesday, June 17 - 12 PM to 8 PM
* Thursday, June 18 - 10 AM to 6 PM
* Friday, June 19 - 7 AM to 3 PM
* Saturday, June 20 - 10 AM to 4 PM
* Sunday, June 21 - 10 AM to 4 PM

New York County Early Voting Poll Sites Serving Upper East Side - Find Your Poll Site:
* Jackie Robinson Education Complex, 1573 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10029
* Robert Wagner Middle School, 225 East 75th Street, New York, NY 10021

Look up your early voting location at nyc.pollsitelocator.com/search

Vote in Person

With everything reopening ahead of the election and the options to vote by mail, or early, the Board of Elections will still be conducting elections on Tuesday, June 23rd from 6AM to 9PM at your local poll site and don't forget to bring your face covering.

Verify Your Voter Registration ([link removed]) and Confirm Your Pollsite ([link removed]) at Vote.nyc ([link removed]) .

CORONAVIRUS


[link removed]
Senator Elizabeth Warren endorsed the Essential Workers Bill of Rights ([link removed]) , introduced by Council Members Brad Lander, Laurie Cumbo, Speaker Jorey Johnson and me in late April. The proposed legislation offers Just Cause protections to healthcare workers, first responders, utility workers, and those on the frontline including those at supermarkets, making deliveries, and anyone working at an essential business ([link removed]) as defined by Governor Cuomo’s first Executive Order ([link removed]) .

Senator Warren voiced strong support for the bill at a virtual rally I joined, where she thanked the many community groups and organizations that have come out in favor of the bill including the National Employment Law Project ([link removed]) , The Legal Aid Society ([link removed]) , Teamsters ([link removed]) , Workers United ([link removed]) , NY Nail Salon Workers Association ([link removed]) , and A Better Balance ([link removed]) . In a tweeted ([link removed]) statement, she even called on Congress to enact a similar bill. As amNY ([link removed]) reported ahead of the hearing where the Essential Workers Bill of Rights was considered, these laws would only apply under major emergencies like a pandemic or a major
hurricane. For more information, see coverage from Courthouse News ([link removed]) .

When Mayor de Blasio initially set up mask distribution sites around the city, I immediately noticed a lack of sites available on the East Side and advocated for more by writing his office. Shortly after, the Mayor allocated thousands of masks to every district office in the City. With materials secured, I decided to take matters into my own hands, literally. I set up distribution sites at Carnegie Hill Neighbors, Lexington Houses, Lenox Hill’s Robbins Plaza, and outside of Foodtown on Roosevelt Island, and with the more than 2,000 disposable and reusable face coverings that the City allocated to my office, we distributed masks to hundreds of residents.

On May 28th, Governor Cuomo announced ([link removed]) an executive order allowing businesses the option to deny entry to customers who are not wearing face masks, making masks an even greater necessity for public outings. For your safety and the safety of those around you, it is important to protect yourself with a face mask and gloves anytime you are in a space where you cannot practice social distancing.

If you or someone you know is in need of a mask, you can pick them up at the following locations in the district (during their hours of operation):
* The Julia Richman Education Complex (JREC), 317 E 67th St. 7:30am to 1:30pm (children & family) 11:30am to 1:30pm (adults)
* Life Sciences Secondary School, 320 E 96th St.
7:30am to 1:30pm (children & family)
11:30am to 1:30pm (adults)
* P.S./I.S. 217, 645 Main Street
7:30am to 1:30pm (children & family)
11:30am to 1:30pm (adults)
* All Saints Episcopal Church, 230 E 60 St.
Saturday, 4:30pm to 5:30pm

See a map ([link removed]) of all of the City’s food distribution sites at NYC.gov/site/coronavirus/resources/facecoverings.page ([link removed])


[link removed] I took office, we’ve advocated to win two rent freezes as well as historically low rent increases for New York City’s one million rent-stabilized apartments. I have testified before the Rent Guidelines Board ([link removed]) (RGB) multiple times and pushed the Mayor’s administration to appoint members to the board who will do the right thing by New York City renters.

This year, with record-high unemployment, a rent rollback or freeze could not be more important. In advance of the RGB’s June 7 vote, I rallied with members of Community Action for Safe Apartments ([link removed]) , the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition and the Metropolitan Council on Housing ([link removed]) . Members of these organizations shared how their families have been affected by Covid-19 and why any rent increase this year would be kicking them while they are down. This year the RGB has signaled that a rent freeze is coming however we must stay vigilant and vocal until the final decision is made.

[link removed] Thursday, June 4th, 6pm – 8pm, my office will be hosting a virtual Know Your Rights Town Hall specifically geared for tenants. At this event, you will learn about exemptions to rent increases for seniors and the disabled and we will have attorneys on hand to answer questions. You can watch the event live by visiting
Facebook.com/BenKallos ([link removed]) .

To participate you must RSVP at BenKallos.com/Events ([link removed]) .

You can submit your questions with your RSVP, or by emailing [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])


[link removed]

You can help defeat the coronavirus by getting tested to make sure you aren't asymptomatically spreading the disease as well as to see if you have antibodies. The Covid-19 diagnostic test is safe, free, and easy. You do NOT need insurance to get a diagnostic test. A nasal swab, oral swab or saliva sample may be used. The city has releasedan online map tool ([link removed]) to help find your nearest Covid-19 testing center, which includes the public City- and State-run testing sites as well as urgent care centers. Learn more at nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/get-tested/covid-19-testing.page ([link removed])

CITY BUDGET

I recently identified up to $235 million that the City could save by canceling a loaded hotel contract. As you may have read in The City ([link removed]) , a contract between the City’s Office of Emergency Management and a Texas firm, Crewfacilities, emerged in order to place vulnerable essential workers, homeless shelter residents, and temporarily-released inmates into hotel rooms to impede the spread of Covid-19. However, when I took a closer look at the undisclosed rates for this specific contract, I found a booking fee that was double the normal rate, overpriced meal provisions and more. At the time, the City was urgently in need of this service and, unfortunately, we were cut a bad deal. I am happy to work with the Contracts Committee to identify places where the City stands to save big so that taxpayer dollars can be put to better use elsewhere, such as essential services for youth and seniors this summer.
Thank you to the whistle-blowers who have already come forward. If you have information, please blow the whistle by emailing [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .

[link removed] the New York Post ([link removed]) reported at a hearing on the City’s $89 billion budget, I pushed the de Blasio administration to consider cutting bloated contracts with consultants and outside vendors before cutting front line jobs belonging to city workers. Following testimony that the city had not registered pending contracts, I called for a list of those contracts as well as contracts that were still registered for our review. I asked that special attention be paid to any cuts affecting programming for seniors and our city’s youth. Removing the option for our youth to safely participate in the paid jobs and internships that summer youth employment programs provide could cost the City more in the long run than funding these programs would. Cutting senior funding when the weather is in the 90s and air conditioning becomes a luxury in many parts of the City
([link removed]) could also be dangerous. Finally, I raised potential cuts to pre-k and 3-k and how they would greatly affect families who rely on free childcare in order to work. For more information, watch the testimony ([link removed]) and my questions or read coverage in Gotham Gazette ([link removed]) , New York County Politics ([link removed]) or Crain's New York ([link removed]) .

INVITES


[link removed]

Tenants Know Your Rights Town Hall (Virtual)
Thursday, June 4th, 6am - 8pm

My office has teamed up with several state and local elected leaders, as well as community housing organizations, to offer a virtual town hall aimed at knowing your rights as a tenant, during the Covid-19 Pandemic and beyond. The virtual town hall will take place on June 4th from 6pm to 8pm. At the event, learn about tenants’ rights, exemptions from rent increases for seniors and the disabled, how you can fight rent increases on stabilized apartments, win a rent freeze, and get your questions answered by attorneys. You can RSVP at BenKallos.com/Events ([link removed])

You must RSVP ([link removed]) [link removed] participate.
Video Conference: RSVP for your URL, create a free account at Zoom.us, RSVP ([link removed])
Teleconference: RSVP to receive the number and access code, RSVP ([link removed])
Facebook Live: Skip the RSVP and watch the stream at Facebook.com/BenKallos/live ([link removed])
Questions must be submitted with RSVP or by email to [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

RSVP at BenKallos.com/Events ([link removed])

[link removed]

First Friday Online
Friday, June 5th, 8am-10am

First Friday remains one of my favorite parts of my job as your Council Member. While we all must continue to do our part by staying home, I want to listen to and address your concerns as we work together for a better city.

This coming First Friday, June 5, 8am – 10am, we will hold our monthly morning meeting via online video and tele-conference using Zoom for the second time.

Thank you to all the residents who participated in last month’s virtual First Friday.

You must RSVP ([link removed]) to participate.

Video Conference: RSVP for your URL, create a free account at Zoom.us, RSVP ([link removed])
Teleconference: RSVP to receive the number and access code, RSVP ([link removed])
Facebook Live: Skip the RSVP and watch the stream at Facebook.com/BenKallos/live ([link removed])

RSVP now at BenKallos.com/events ([link removed])


[link removed]

Parenting During the Pandemic Town Hall
Tuesday, June 16th, 8pm – 9:30pm

Join me for the Parenting During the Pandemic Virtual Town Hall. As a parent myself, I have had to confront the challenges that come with balancing my work and home life all from a one-bedroom apartment. That’s why my office brought together a team of experts to discuss the concerns that many families everywhere are facing during the pandemic. The panel will feature a social worker to discuss how to better support yourself and your family, an educator who will provide tips for reducing screen time and creating a routine for nursery to middle school, representatives from the Dept. of Education, the United Federation of Teachers and more. You can RSVP at BenKallos.com/Events ([link removed])

You must RSVP ([link removed]) to participate.
VideoConference: RSVP for your URL, create a free account at Zoom.us, RSVP ([link removed])
Teleconference: RSVP to receive the number and access code, RSVP ([link removed])
Facebook Live: Skip the RSVP and watch the stream at Facebook.com/BenKallos/live
Questions must be submitted with RSVP or by email to [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

RSVP at BenKallos.com/events ([link removed])

[link removed]

Community Conversation Town Hall
Thursday, June 18th, 6pm - 7pm

My office and City Council Speaker Corey Johnson will be hosting a Community Conversation Townhall on Thursday, June 18th. We will be discussing and taking questions on the City Budget, Rent and Housing, Resources for Seniors and Small Businesses.

You must RSVP ([link removed]) to participate.
VideoConference: RSVP for your URL, create a free account at Zoom.us, RSVP ([link removed])
Teleconference: RSVP to receive the number and access code, RSVP ([link removed])
Facebook Live: Skip the RSVP and watch the stream at Facebook.com/BenKallos/live
Questions must be submitted with RSVP or by email to [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

RSVP ([link removed]) at BenKallos.com/events ([link removed])


[link removed]

My office will be distributing FREE face coverings for those who need them most. Face coverings are available for essential workers and residents who need them to stay safe. Please be sure to RSVP to reserve your covering and skip the line. Locations include:
* Holmes-Isaacs Coalition (completed) – Tuesday, June 2nd, 11:15–12:15pm, 415 East 93rd Street by the Courtyard
* East 86th Street Neighborhood Association – Wednesday, June 3rd, 11:30-12:30pm, 86th and Lexington East of the South East Corner, RSVP ([link removed])
* East 79th Street CERT & Neighborhood Association – Wednesday, June 4th, 5pm–6pm, John Jay Park on 79th and the FDR, RSVP ([link removed])
* East Harlem (For Seniors) – Friday, June 5th, 11:30am–1pm, Carter Burden Network Leonard Covello Senior Center, 312 East 109th Street, RSVP ([link removed])
* East 72nd Street Neighborhood Association – Saturday, June 6th, 11am–12pm, 72nd and First Avenue on the South East Corner, RSVP ([link removed])
* Carnegie Hill Neighbors – Wednesday, June 10th, 3pm–4pm, 1326 Madison Avenue, RSVP ([link removed])
* Roosevelt Island Senior Center and Disabled Organization – please contact our partners for dates and times.

RSVP to reserve you covering by calling 212-860-1950, emailing [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) , or visiting BenKallos.com/events ([link removed])
Weather Permitting, RSVP for Rain Date.
Supplies are limited. One per person. First come first served.

You may also pick up a disposable mask and/or a meal at the following locations in the district:
* The Julia Richman Education Complex (JREC), 317 E 67th St.
7:30am to 1:30pm (children & family)
11:30am to 1:30pm (adults)
* Life Sciences Secondary School, 320 E 96th St.
7:30am to 1:30pm (children & family)
11:30am to 1:30pm (adults)
* P.S./I.S. 217, 645 Main Street
7:30am to 1:30pm (children & family)
11:30am to 1:30pm (adults)

See a map ([link removed]) of all of the City’s food distribution sites at NYC.gov/site/coronavirus/resources/facecoverings.page ([link removed])



[link removed] in the upcoming virtual Drag Queen Story Hour funded by my office on Saturday, June 20th at 10AM. This virtual story hour will feature stories and songs for kids ages 3–8 and will remain available to watch online until NYPL branches reopen. This month’s DQSH will feature Harmonica Sunbeam reading books in English. To participate in this DQSH event live or watch previous events such as the reading I attended on June 2nd, visit the NYPL's website ([link removed]) . To view all upcoming DQSH events, visit www.dqshnyc.org ([link removed])


[link removed]
Join New York Classical Theatre's online reading of King Lear on Thursday, June 25th at 8pm. Make a reservation at nyclassical.org/king-lear to watch it live and view the recording during the long weekend following the event. As with all of NY Classical's programs, attendance is free and any donations collected will go directly to local artists.

JOBS AND SMALL BUSINESSES


I called for the city to immediately grant temporary permission for bars and restaurants to use sidewalks and streets as a temporary space for socially distanced seating where patrons can be served, in a letter to Mayor de Blasio that I co-authored with Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and Council Member Keith Powers.

As we enter the third month of social distancing and the weather turns warmer, we must ensure that when New Yorkers go outside, they do so safely. Rather than relying on enforcement or fines that may add to the financial stress that many individuals and small businesses are already facing due to the pandemic, we should adapt our city’s streets to allow for and encourage safe practices. The solution is to work with public health experts to allow restaurants and bars to set up seating with proper barriers and a sufficient number of parking spots to reach as close to their previous capacity as possible while remaining health-conscious at all times. As I told Fox 5 ([link removed]) , businesses should be subject to rigid guidelines including capacity reduction and prohibiting pick-up customers from crowding once available seating is full. This method is being implemented in municipalities across the nation as a resolve for businesses looking to reopen, while keeping
their staff and patrons safe and healthy.

Read the full letter which outlines the locations we are recommending for immediate rollout as well as the hours we are recommending the outdoor seating be restricted to, at BenKallos.com/press-release ([link removed]) . For more information on my effort to open streets for outdoor seating, see coverage by 6sqft ([link removed]) , New York County Politics ([link removed]) , Our Town ([link removed]) , and Patch ([link removed]) .

[link removed] you missed our Virtual Town Hall with Small Business Commissioner Jonnel Doris, it’s not too late to catch up on what was discussed, including everything from taxes to facilitating options that are available through federal programs.

Congress Member Carolyn Maloney joined us to share the hard work she’s doing in Congress on the next relief package, which will consist of nearly $1 trillion for local governments to pay essential workers, $100 billion for an emergency rental assistance fund, $75 billion for testing tracing and treatment, 25 billion to fund postal service, and more.

Commissioner Doris gave a report on how the City’s Department of Small Businesses Services is getting funding for financial institutions and resources that deal with communities and help small businesses, including:
* Two rounds of small business funding administered by the SBA: the PPP Program ([link removed]) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Fund ([link removed]) , with rent and utility assistance of up to 50%.
* Help with commercial lease issues and applications to apply for free legal assistance through the Commercial Lease Assistance Program ([link removed]) .
* The City Bar Justice Center offers free legal assistance for small businesses to help navigate insurance-related claims. For assistance, email them at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) or call (212) 382-6633.
* NYC Business Solutions Centers and Workforce1 Center at nyc.gov/covid19wf1

Watch the entire video conference featuring Congress Member, Carolyn Maloney, on YouTube.com ([link removed]) or at Facebook.com/BenKallos/Videos ([link removed]) .

EDUCATION & VIRTUAL LEARNING


[link removed] early May, I questioned Schools Chancellor Carranza on a number of
Covid-related education topics. I asked about New York City’s plans for 3-K amidst the Covid-19 crisis, noting the stress caused to parents needing childcare to return to work. Carranza assured me that “there will be no cuts to existing 3-K, but that expansion will be difficult” with the proposed budget cuts.

Chancellor Carranza and I shared a goal of reopening on September 1st, but that will ultimately depend on what is safe for the City according to the medical professionals.

I also expressed my concerns about the $269 million the City spent on iPads and whether it was the wisest use of government spending when there are still students without full functioning laptops, which led me to ask about the digital divide and what is being done to provide laptops for all students. Chancellor Carranza replied that he is focused on closing the gap by working with entities that could provide city schools with the necessary technology in the quantities needed. For now, the DOE is looking at scalable options for the future.

For more information, see coverage by the New York Post ([link removed]) and New York County Politics ([link removed]) , or a clip of the hearing at BenKallos.com/Videos ([link removed]) .

More than 200 children in our state have been diagnosed with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children. I joined Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and a group of doctors for a virtual press conference calling attention to this rare disease that appears to be Covid-19 related and has killed at least three children in our state. We are calling on the Department of Education to use remote-learning technology that is now in the homes of hundreds of thousands of New York City public school children to educate the public on the dangerous disease. We cannot let this condition sneak up on our City the way Covid-19 did.

The syndrome can cause the following symptoms, which are similar to those caused by Kawasaki disease:
* fever that lasts more than 5 days and gets higher
* severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
* bloodshot eyes
* skin rash
* change in skin color, which can include becoming pale, patchy, or blue
* difficulty feeding or too sick to drink
* trouble breathing or quick breathing
* chest pain or racing heart
* confusion, irritability, or lethargy
* swelling and redness in the hands and feet
* redness or cracking in the lips or tongue
* swollen lymph nodes in the neck

Following our press conference, the City has put out this fact sheet ([link removed]) on this disease but should force the Department of Education to do more in order to keep parents in underserved communities updated on this syndrome.



From proms to graduations, our youth have already lost so much to this pandemic and we cannot allow Covid-19 to take even more. Since it was established in 1963, the City’s Summer Youth Education Program (SYEP) has provided minimum-wage employment and internships for youth ages 14 to 24, particularly those who are low-income. Cutting SYEP would eliminate 75,000 jobs before a possible recession and exacerbate the opportunity gap for students enrolled in schools that lack career resources, a decision that will adversely impact our City's marginalized youth for years to come. This program has always been vital to the livelihood of tens of thousands of families in New York City, but especially as social distancing has limited the space available in parks and other public settings that kids usually occupy in the summer. That is why on the day of the Education Budget Hearing, I stood with Make the Road New York and numerous other elected officials in demanding that SYEP be spared from budget cuts
and operate remotely this summer. My request received online support from student-led movement Teens Take Charge ([link removed]) and from the New York Chapter of the Dignity in Schools Campaign ([link removed]) .

[link removed] address school closures, the PUMP Initiative ([link removed]) launched its Academic Support and Mentorship Program to ensure that all participating students pass their Math and Science classes for the 2019-2020 school year, complete with mentorships and discussions about coping with crisis.

The program is running from May 18th through June 22nd with 3 sessions per week: two sessions for math and science and one mentorship session. This program includes a new guest speaker every week and is free and open to all students across the globe. All sessions will be held on Google Hangouts, and recorded so that they are available to watch anytime, anywhere.

Students can sign up for free at PUMP’s registration site ([link removed]) .


[link removed] Inc. (LINC) continues to enrich and enhance its online programming with sessions that provide comfort and growth for children in our city at a time when they need it the most. LINC’s virtual programming is designed to increase the hours children read and are read to, while also providing families with tools, resources, and skills to infuse their homes with literacy-rich activities during Covid-19. Their daily curated activities incorporate the five basic elements of early literacy: sing, play, talk, draw and read. If you are interested in registering or have any questions, visit.lincnyc.org/onlineprograms ([link removed]) or email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])

TRANSPORTATION


[link removed] the initial closure of seven miles on May 4th, more than 40 miles of New York City streets have been closed to allow space for residents to properly practice social distancing while outdoors. On the Upper East Side I suggested East End Avenue from East 83rd to East 89th Street to address complaints of crowding in Carl Schurz Park's John Finley Walk, which was accepted as part of the initial rollout. Across the borough, people have been enjoying the open streets and they have served as a release valve for our local parks that have been crowded ever since the “Pause” order went into effect. As temperatures continue to rise, it is expected that more New Yorkers will want to spend time outside for physical activity.

These street closures will help to accommodate that need. Furthermore, as the number of Covid-related hospital admissions and deaths continues to decline, this method is keeping New Yorkers from spreading the virus. Ultimately, the City hopes to open 100 miles of streets citywide during May, with a plan to expand to 100 total miles to be identified in the weeks ahead.


Check out my discussion ([link removed]) with New Yorkers for Safer Streets’ Nicole Palame on budget cuts, how to ensure New York City thrives again and how Covid-19 has affected the homelives of parents and families everywhere, but especially here.


New York Road Runners have released “NYRR Striders at Home ([link removed]) ,” a site filled with general physical education content for adults meant to change attitudes towards exercise and encouraging fitness activities from home.

FOOD & ENVIRONMENT


Through legislation I am introducing, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams and I are working to improve the quality of the food New York City is serving people in need. Our City has served millions of meals to food-insecure New Yorkers since the Covid-19 pandemic was declared. Preventing people from going hungry is always a priority, however, more attention needs to be paid to the quality of the food our City is giving its residents. Obesity is an epidemic in New York City, with more than half of adult New Yorkers overweight. We could be doing a disservice to the people we are trying to help if we give them junk food at a time like this. To call attention to the issue, we held a virtual press conference alongside experts and doctors who all agree that whether for seniors or children, chips and candy are not what we should be feeding residents for lunch and dinner. For more information on what the bill does and how it would work to improve food distribution, watch the press conference
([link removed]) , read the release ([link removed]) , or see coverage by Gotham Gazette ([link removed]) , New York County Politics ([link removed]) , and Kings County Politics ([link removed]) .


As Mayor de Blasio proposes to cut composting from our city, I co-prime sponsored the Community Organics and Recycling Empowerment (CORE) Act, authored by Council Members Keith Powers and Antonio Reynoso. The bill would require a location for compost and organics recycling in every community district.


As we confront the challenges posed by this crisis, we must also learn from it and do better to protect our most vulnerable communities from disparate consequences in future crises, such as the escalating threat of climate change.


I took part in the Richman Law Group’s Food Systems Summit to discuss some of the work we have done in the City Council to progress the nutrition agenda, including the introduction of the City’s Office of Food policy, the passage of my Healthy Happy Meals legislation and more.



My office is extending a big thank you to new Community Board 8 member Saundrea Coleman and other volunteers for stepping up and making sure New York City Housing Authority residents are getting the food they need at home.

COMMUNITY


For the 25th annual Aging Advocacy Day, I joined LiveOn New York in showing support for our senior community and the service providers that serve them. It’s important that we protect our seniors and ensure that they receive the necessary resources and programming, especially during this time.


I did a virtual “Ben in Your Building” where we discussed the implications of Covid-19 on the neighborhood's real estate implications and how I envision its reopening pace, opening streets for restaurants and bars, and the metrics involved in the City’s reopening.

If you’re holding an annual co-op or condo meeting virtually, I would be happy to join online. Please schedule by calling 212-860-1950 or email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .



Five new active neighborhood leaders have joined Community Boards serving the Upper East Side after being nominated by me and appointed by Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer.

Community boards are tasked with being the independent and representative voices of their communities — the most grass-roots form of local government. The boards are pivotal in shaping their communities and work to enhance and preserve the character of the city’s many unique neighborhoods. My 2020-2021 nominations, which were confirmed by Borough President Brewer’s appointments, were:
[link removed]
* Saundrea I. Coleman, a preacher, activist, radio show host and resident on the Upper East Side since 1992 who is ready to diligently serve on Manhattan Community Board 8,
* Harrison Pierson-Panes, a lifelong Upper East Sider and a high school junior at The Beacon School who is dedicated to working tirelessly for the betterment of Community Board 8,
* Felice Farber, a lifelong New Yorker who champions regional transportation and infrastructure issues that make New York a world-class city,
* Rev. Michelle Wiltshire-Clement, a wife and mother of two who is passionate about social justice issues and policies especially those concerning our youth, safety, and environment,
* And Charles A. Fernandez Jr., a lifelong Upper East Sider who has been fighting for this community his whole life and cannot wait to help make a difference in this new capacity.

Read the entire announcement at BenKallos.com/press-releases ([link removed]) or see coverage by New York County Politics ([link removed]) .


It was a pleasure to recognize Asian and Pacific Islander American Heritage Month and to celebrate Advocacy Day by honoring the Chinese-American Planning Council’s 55 years of work for the Chinese-American, immigrant and low-income communities in our City.


At New York Junior League’s Town Hall last month, I was happy to hear the individual and collective needs of the local community firsthand. We discussed the hardships of food insecurity and unemployment, and how we can work together and share resources to address those needs.


I was proud to support members of The Tank theatre at their annual gala, which brought together people from all over the country to cook, share a meal (virtually), and watch performances. The event proved that though the theatre’s physical doors may be closed the organization is still providing an artistic escape from the realities of this pandemic.

RESOURCES


Up Close ([link removed]) , a new micro digital commissioning program that offers artists online opportunities to work, create, and collaborate. We also recently announced our call for proposals for the second edition of The Shed’s Open Call ([link removed]) , a large-scale commissioning program dedicated to developing and presenting new works from artists based in NYC who have not yet received major institutional support.

What is Open Call?

Born out of The Shed’s commitment to supporting early-career artists and a diverse range of voices and experiences, our Open Call program selects, fosters, and presents new work from NYC-based artists who have not yet received major support. Open Call embraces NYC’s diversity of emerging talent in its many forms—including artistic medium, race, ethnicity, age, identity, physical ability, and other experiences—and supports selected proposals with a commissioning fee of up to $15,000.

What is The Shed?

The Shed is a new arts center that commissions original works of art, across all
disciplines, for all audiences. Driven by our belief that access to art is a right, and
not a privilege, we present engaging experiences for our visitors and our time.

How can I apply?

For more information and to apply, visit theshed.org/opencallapply. Applications
close May 31. There is no processing fee. Participants will be selected by a panel of leaders in their fields, including other artists, cultural programmers, academics, and Shed staff. Artists selected for Open Call will present their work in 2021 (dates to be announced). For questions, please email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) .


NAMI-NYC still offers a variety of support resources to help you or a loved one with general or Covid-19 related mental health concerns. Their helpline continues to be available as a source of information and support. Call 212-684-3264 between 10am to 6pm – or email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) anytime.

NAMI-NYC has also started a new weekly chat group that will meet remotely each Friday NAMI-NYC Wellness Chats is a place for anyone who needs to connect. Visit naminyc.org/covid to learn more about our remote-based services that are available for you.



According to Estelle Young, M.D., a retired physician in the district, there are “little libraries” around Yorkville that residents can contribute to by donating their own books and “checking out” new ones using the honor system. In lieu of libraries being closed as a result of the NY Pause mandate, I think this is a great way for the community to safely share and exchange books with one another until libraries physically reopens. These “little libraries” are located at 321 East 83^rd Street and 223 East 82 Street. If you know of other “little library” locations, please email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) and I would be happy to include them in my next newsletter.



Join Moving For Life classes online ([link removed]) every day. As we continue to stay home, there are a lot of reasons to move online:

Lift your mood or shake off anxious thoughts.
Get heart-healthy cardio & manage your weight.
Ease side-effects of aging, cancer treatment, or chronic illness.


The Samaritans’ Mental Health Wellness Support Line is available for those who are coping with anxiety, distress, depression and other mental health issues as well as those who provide them with care and support, such as parents, teachers, guidance counselors, caregivers, health providers, first responders, etc.
To receive a Mental Health Wellness Support call, dial (212) 673-3661 and leave a message with how to reach you so Samaritans can call you back the following day at your convenience. Samaritans is available to discuss how you are doing, the challenges you might be dealing with and provide a safe outlet for you to talk about what you are feeling during this difficult time. Click HERE ([link removed]) for information on the service and available resources.



Applications are now being accepted for 313 mixed-income apartments at a new high-rise rental ([link removed]) on Roosevelt Island, ranging from a $506/month studio to a $3,432 three-bedroom.

Located at 460 Main Street, the building is near the main shopping and dining strip of Roosevelt Island, as well as its riverfront parks and the F subway train. Other transit options include the Tram, the Ferry, the Q102, and the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation’s red bus.

Amenities at the building include a fitness center and yoga studio, a children’s playroom, party lounge and game room, bike storage, an attended lobby, plus views of the Hudson and East Rivers. Qualifying New Yorkers can apply for the affordable units until July 6, 2020. Preference for 50 percent of the units will be given to residents of Manhattan Community Board 8.

Questions regarding this offer must be referred to NYC’s Housing Connect department by dialing 311. Complete details on how to apply are available here ([link removed]) .


New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) has launched the NY Covid-19 Legal Resource Hotline to help New York City residents impacted by Covid-19 get answers to their legal questions on issues including unemployment benefits, employee rights, housing, public benefits, consumer debt, advance planning, stimulus payments, and special education issues.
Residents can call 929-356-9582 from 10am-1pm Monday-Friday to leave a message. When leaving a message, leave your name, the best number to call back, and a description of the issue. NYLAG will follow-up within two business days.

More information is available at www.nylag.org/hotline ([link removed]) .


OFFICE UPDATES

Free Legal Clinics

Need a lawyer? Every month I sponsor legal clinics where you can get free legal advice. These clinics usually take place at my District Office, but have been temporarily moved online due to Covid-19. Appointments take place 2pm – 6pm:
* General Civil Law, By Appointment Only
* Life Planning Clinic, 3rd Wednesday
* Family Law and Domestic Violence, 1st Tuesday
* Housing Clinics, Mondays and Wednesdays

Please call my office at 212-860-1950 or email [email protected] (mailto:[email protected]) with the subject ‘Requesting Legal Clinic’ to make appointments to meet by phone.


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] (mailto:[email protected]) with any unresolved 311 complaints.

In March, I joined Communities United for Police Reform ([link removed]) in an open letter to the Mayor calling on the City to take care of New York City’s homeless population during the Covid-19 outbreak. Read the full letter at Changethenypd.org/protect-homeless-covid-full-letter-cuomo-de-blasio ([link removed])

Back in 2016, I launched the Eastside Task Force for Homeless Outreach and Services ([link removed]) (ETHOS) with Borough President Brewer, Senator Krueger, Council Member Garodnick, Department of Social Services ([link removed]) (DSS), community and faith leaders and service organizations. We’ve already been able to help a chronically homeless individual in the community who we believe had long been suffering from mental illness, after a resident was willing to come forward working with me, the 19th Precinct, the District Attorney and DSS to get them the help they needed. We hope to get every unsheltered person living on the street the help they need. If you see one of our City’s most vulnerable on the street, please call 311 or use the NYC 311 App ([link removed]) (Android ([link removed]) /iPhone
([link removed]) ) to ask them to dispatch a “homeless outreach team.” They will ask where you saw the person, what they looked like, and offer report on whether the person accepts our city’s offer of shelter, three meals a day, health care, rehabilitation, and job training. By connecting our dedicated nonprofits and religious institutions with city services, ETHOS is really making a difference. For more information, visit BenKallos.com/Homelessness ([link removed])

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