HEADLINES
Retirement Security for All
Every New Yorker deserves the right to retire, but two-thirds of workers aren’t participating in retirement plans, largely because their employer doesn’t offer one. As reported by ABC 7 and the New York Daily News, I rallied with Mayor de Blasio and Council Member I. Daneek Miller at City Hall in support of Int. 888-A. This legislation, which I authored, would automatically enroll New York City residents to volunteer into a retirement savings program through their private-sector jobs, if their employer does not offer a retirement savings plan. As reported by WCBS 880, the program would be administered by the City of New York and would not cost anything for businesses to run. By default, residents would see 3% of their paycheck deducted, and they could change that rate or opt-out entirely at any time, however, automatic enrollment has been shown to encourage individuals to save more.
Following the rally, dozens of supporters from AARP crowded into the City Council Chambers to testify in support of this legislation. I have been fighting to implement a plan like this since before I was an elected official. I helped craft the Retirement Security for All platform for Bill Samuels’ EffectiveNY when I was the executive director of the good government and policy group. In the Council, I first announced this plan with the Mayor back in February of 2016, with the support of Public Advocate Tish James. However, when Trump entered the White House, his chief advisor Steve Bannon made it his top priority to fight plans like ours. The U.S. House passed and the President signed Joint Resolutions 66 and 67 to roll back the Obama Administration’s regulations intended to make it easier for states and municipalities to offer retirement savings plans. But they didn’t make it illegal. Now we are working to make the plan a reality.
Thank you to Mayor de Blasio for taking this issue on earlier this year and working to get it passed into law. For more information read my op-ed in Crain's New York and coverage from Gotham Gazette.
Ribbon Cutting 180 New Pre K Seats Upper East Side
On the day before the 2020 school year started, I cut the ribbon on a new 180 seat pre-kindergarten facility alongside Congress Member Carolyn Maloney, Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright representatives of the Department of Education, President of the School Construction Authority Lorraine Grillo, President of the Council on School Administrators and Supervisors Mark Canizzaro, and Business Manager of Laborer's Local 79 Mike Prohaska. The new pre-kindergarten Center is located at 355 East 76th Street.
In May of last year, we broke ground on the center, which was formerly a parking garage. This initiative to add more pre-kindergarten seats on the Upper East Side became a reality thanks to the cooperation between my office and local parents in a campaign to get the Department of Education to fulfill the area’s needs and live up to the promise of pre-kindergarten for all children in New York City. As Patch reported, this new center marks Manhattan's School District 2 as the third-largest pre-kindergarten center capacity in the city.
In the fall of 2018, I cut the ribbon on the 90-seat District 2 pre-kindergarten Center at 1683 Third Avenue that was a joint effort with Extell Developer Gary Barnett and the Mayor. In addition, last year I joined Council Member Keith Powers, Senator Liz Krueger and Assembly Member Dan Quart in cutting the ribbon on the 144-seats District 2 pre-kindergarten Center at 252 East 57 Street.
In 2014, WNYC reported that Yorkville, Lenox Hill, and Roosevelt Island had 2,118 four-year-olds and only 123 pre-kindergarten seats. Every year since then applications have exceeded the number of pre-kindergarten seats in the neighborhood. For the 2019 school year there were 1,122 pre-kindergarten seats available for four-year-olds in the district, along with 1,140 applicants for pre-kindergarten according to a report of Local Law 72 of 2018 that I authored to bring attention to the lack of seats. The Upper East Side has added pre-kindergarten seats each of the past five school years and now has a capacity of 1,122 seats compared to just 154 in 2014.
For more coverage of the ribbon-cutting, read the press release on BenKallos.com/press-release or watch the ribbon cutting at BenKallos.com/videos
Get Big Money Out of Albany
 We strengthened our campaign finance system to get big money out of New York City Politics. Now it’s time for New York State to do the same. That is why I testified before the New York State Commission to Create Public Financing of Elections in favor of the Empire State adopting New York City’s campaign finance system in its entirety. Over one million people, some 80% of the voters in New York City, demanded that we get big money out of New York City politics, and we’ve created a constitutional court-tested voluntary program that now offers candidates a full public match for every small-dollar they raise with 8 public taxpayer dollars up to the spending limit. The City’s system I am proposing for the state would:
- Match Every Dollar with 8 to 1 Multiplier, Full Public Match – match every small-dollar up to the first $175 for legislative and $250 for statewide candidates up to approximately 85% of the spending limit. NYC Model
- Lower Contribution Limits – lower contribution limits to $2,000 for statewide offices, $1,500 for Senators, and $1,000 for Assembly Members total per election cycle because you should not be able to give more to the Governor than the President of the United States of America.
- Ban Corporate Contributions – corporations are not people and should not be entitled to speech in the form of direct campaign contributions. The state legislature has already closed the LLC loophole. Now corporation contributions must be banned entirely.
How we fund our elections determines how our legislators decide on every issue. So far, these changes have resulted in increased voter turnout and small campaign donations in the form of the Public Advocate race earlier this year. We will likely see even higher numbers if the Campaign Finance Commission allows for a partial rollout in 2020, expanding to a full rollout in 2022. Watch my testimony before the commission, or read the full version at BenKallos.com/press-release
Participatory Budgeting: Decide How to Spend $1 Million in Our Community
 Participatory Budgeting is back! Each year, I secure funds so the community can decide how it wants to make things better in our neighborhood. Residents in my district ages 14 and older can volunteer to shape this process. To learn more, please visit BenKallos.com/PB
Learn more about Participatory Budgeting and how you can get involved in determining how $1 million of your taxpayer dollars get spent. We are seeking new and bold ideas. Submit your suggestions at BenKallos.com/PB/Propose
All projects must be brick and mortar proposals that are within City Council District 5 and with a cost ranging from $50,000 to $500,000. If you have any questions, contact my office at [email protected].
UPGRADING OUR PARKS
INVITATION: Breaking Ground on New Playground for Carl Schurz Park
You are invited to a groundbreaking ceremony at Carl Schurz Park Playground. The ceremony will take place on Thursday, October 3rd at 11:30 am sharp. Carl Schurz Playground will see a $3.4 million dollar renovation over the next 10 to 12 months. I allocated a total of $975,000 for this much-needed renovation. Please note that Catbird Playground to the north will remain OPEN throughout construction.
Groundbreaking Ceremony at Carl Schurz Playground
Thursday, October 3, at 11:30 am
East 84th Street & East End Ave
RSVP
New Sutton Place Park
 The new Sutton Place Park is open! The long-awaited opening was attended by dozens of children and families, members of the Sutton Area Community, the Sutton Place Park Conservancy, Congress Member Carolyn Maloney, State Senator Liz Krueger, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and myself as we marked a new era for this part of the neighborhood. The new park was built atop a deck over the F.D.R. Drive on what was once a private garden connecting two small parks at 57th and 56th Streets now adds some 10,000 square feet of park space.
The new green space is the result of a collaboration between the Parks Department and 1 Sutton Place South who subdivided their private garden in order to provide more park space for the community. I am proud of the work my office did to push construction of this park along, but we must thank those who fought for years to make this happen. Thank you to Joshua Berkowitz, Chairman of the Board of the 1 Sutton Place South cooperative, former Council Member Jessica Lappin, Assembly Member Dan Quart, President of the Sutton Place Parks Conservancy Pat Scharlin Taylor, and Community Board 6 Chair Mollie Hollister. For more information on the new Sutton Place Park, read prior coverage in Our Town or check out the release at BenKallos.com/releases
New Basketball Courts for John Jay Park
 Upper East Side dad Greg Davis, whose two sons play basketball at John Jay Park, wouldn’t take no for an answer as he persisted for four-years alongside my office pushing the City Parks Department to improve dilapidated courts. The courts were nothing more than cracked asphalt, rusted metal backboards, and badly angled net-less hoops. Over the course of four years, Greg Davis had nearly perfect attendance at more than 40 First Friday meetings in-person with Council Member Ben Kallos from 8 am to 10 am each month. Each month Greg shared his work with the Council Member’s staff, 311 requests, and direct advocacy with Community Board 8, and with the Park Department. Greg succeeded in getting improvements done by the Parks Department, with newly painted playing lines, a smooth playing surface, and three new polycarbonate backboards with shooting square and nets. Read the release at BenKallos.com/press-release, watch the announcement at BenKallos.com/videos, or read coverage from Upper East Side Patch.
Play at Sutton East Tennis for $10
For the first time ever, any New Yorker can play tennis at the Queensboro Oval all winter long for just $10 per person, per hour. Now you can get a game in before work, over lunch, even late nights. In September, Sutton East Tennis announced new discounted programming that my office and the New York City Parks Department worked to achieve over the last few years. The new winter programming will run for the 30-week season-ending April 12, 2020, and includes:
- $10 per person during drop-in hours weekday mornings (6am - 8am), afternoons, (1pm - 3pm) and evenings (10pm - midnight) and weekend mornings (6am - 8am) and evenings (8pm - 12pm).
- $10 per person senior (over 62) clinic with stretching, warm-up, tennis drills, instructions, offered Monday – Friday: 6:00 am - 7:00 am, 7:00-8:00 am, 1:00-2:00 pm, 2:00-3:00 pm
I am thankful for the support of Community Board 8, Congress Member Carolyn Maloney, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer and Assembly Member Dan Quart. Get more information at [email protected] or by calling 212-751-3452. Read the release at BenKallos.com/press-releases or watch the announcement at BenKallos.com/videos
Celebrating $1 Million for Asphalt Green
Speaking at the official naming of Asphalt Green’s soccer field honoring the generous support of the Litwin family.
FIGHTING OVERDEVELOPMENT
Fighting Supertalls Before They Can Start
 We are fighting supertalls before they even get off the ground with legislation I have authored, Int. 1701, which will force the City to provide notice within five days to the relevant Community Board, Council Member, and Borough President along with the Speaker of the City Council when developers begin to amass and transfer air rights. By giving community leaders a prompt heads up, this legislation gives communities another tool to fight overdevelopment from the beginning step of a supertall tower.
In September, the City Council held a hearing discussing the bill that enjoys the support of Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, who has long said Manhattan’s proliferation of towering buildings is eroding neighborhood character. In a city where the real estate industry has a lot of power and control, residents should be informed of what is happening in their community. Having clear and timely notification when a real estate group acquires nearby air space will give communities time to prepare and mount a defense if they want to oppose the project. For more information read the release at BenKallos.com/Press-Releases or check out coverage in curbed CurbedNY.
Protecting Tenants from Building Blacklists
 In 2016, The New York Times covered bills I introduced aimed at preventing landlords from blacklisting tenants who have been to housing court. The bills were introduced as a result of the hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers named in housing court cases every year that get reported to companies along with credit reports and are often used to deny applications to renters. I reintroduced the legislation last year, and it got a hearing in the City Council this past month. AM New York wrote about how the bill would make discrimination based on the tenant blacklist a human rights violation punishable by fines and enforceable by New York City’s Human Rights Commission. For more information, read past coverage in The New York Times and the new reporting from amNY.
CIVITAS: Land Use Proposal on Building Heights & Affordable Housing
You are invited to CIVITAS' Community Conversations Series Wednesday, October 2 at 6:30 pm. In recent years, the Upper East Side’s avenues have seen the development of several high-rise buildings that are not in scale or architecturally sympathetic to our neighborhood’s existing built character. In the early 1980’s the Upper East Side was rezoned allowing higher density development on the avenues within a contextual building envelope that had specific building street wall requirements and height limits. However new advances in high-rise building construction, the use of higher floor-to-floor heights, the use of as-of-right zoning lot mergers to transfer unused development rights to generate more floor area on development sites and zoning variances (waivers) have produced unforeseen consequences and challenges to our community’s underlying zoning regulations. The event will take place at Hunter College West Building 904 Lexington Ave.
CIVITAS Community Conversations Series
Wednesday, October 2
6:30 pm - 8 pm
Hunter College West Building 904 Lexington Avenue
PLAY IN OUR PARKS
Skate Night
Join NYC Parks and Council Member Ben Kallos for a fun skate night at Stanley Isaacs Playground. Dance and enjoy an outdoor roller skating night with a live DJ, jumbo games and much more! Skates will be provided but are limited. Feel free to bring your own skates. Socks are required for all skaters. Reservations are valid for one session only, any duplicates will be eliminated.
Skate Night
Saturday, October 5
4:00pm-7:00pm
Stanley Isaacs Playground
First Avenue and 96th Street
New York, NY 10075
Bike Helmet Fitting and Distribution Event
The New York City Department of Transportation and my office will give away bike helmets while supplies last for all ages. You must be present to get a helmet and you must learn how to properly fit and wear it before you receive it. Adults over 18 receiving a helmet must sign a waiver, and a parent or legal guardian must be present to sign a waiver for children under age 18.
DOT Bike Helmet Fitting and Distribution Event
Saturday, October 19
11:00 am-2:30pm
Carl Schurz Park
John Finley Walk
84th Street and the East River
RSVP
Sutton Tennis Senior Clinic Fall-Winter Program
New York City's premier tennis facility, Sutton East Tennis Club, is conveniently located in Manhattan's Sutton Place neighborhood on York Avenue between East 59th & East 60th Streets, directly under the Queensboro Bridge. There is no membership fee, so everyone is welcome to come play on the eight red clay indoor courts.
Sutton Tennis Senior Clinic Fall-Winter Program
September 16, 2019 - April 12, 2020
Monday – Friday: 6-7 am, 7-8 am, 1-2 pm, 2-3 pm
488 East 60th Street
Register
Sutton Tennis Senior Cardio Fall-Winter Program
September 16, 2019 - April 12, 2020
Monday – Friday: 7-8am
488 East 60th Street
Sutton Tennis Senior $10 Off Peak/Walk-In Indoor Tennis
September 16, 2019 - April 12, 2020
Monday – Friday: 6-8AM, 8PM-12AM
Saturday-Sunday: 6-8AM, 8PM-12AM
488 East 60th Street
EVENT INVITES
Senior Health Fair
Join Council Member Keith Powers and me for our annual health and wellness fair for seniors. The Senior Health Fair will feature flu shots at no cost, speakers from local senior centers, a presentation by State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli on unclaimed funds, Attorney General Tish James on identity theft protection, information on Medicare open enrollment, rent freezing, home-sharing, and giveaways and prizes!
RSVP at BenKallos.com/events or call 212-860-1950
Senior Health Fair
Thursday, October 10
5:00pm–7:00pm
St. Peter's Church
619 Lexington Avenue
City & State 2019 Government Procurement Conference
 Join me on Thursday, October 24th for City & State Government Procurement Conference. Last fiscal year, over $19 billion in city contracts were available for procurement in New York City. However, successfully navigating the procurement process remains difficult or even out of reach for many organizations. The Government Procurement Conference will foster business partnerships between the city and state level government, prime contractors, and small, minority, service-disabled veteran-owned, and women-owned businesses.
As chair of the City Council’s Committee on Contracts, I will be leading a panel discussion at 11:30am titled “Understanding Government Requirements, Rules and Contracts.” For more information on the event, visit City&State.com/Events
If you are interested in attending, you can purchase tickets at by visiting Impactflow.com/event/11044/checkout/tickets
M/WBE Job Fair with Silicon Harlem
On Friday, October, 18, at the National Black Theatre, I will be hosting a Minority & Women-Owned Business Enterprise (M/WBEs) Training and Job Fair. This free event will consist of panel presentations from 11am to 2:15pm. As chair of the Committee on Contracts in the City Council, I will be hosting this free event training to get more businesses registered with the City as M/WBEs and to spread the word about jobs. Some of the agencies present will include the Department of Citywide Administrative Services, the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications, Small Business Services, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. The training will take place as part of the 6th Annual Next-Gen Tech Conference of Silicon Harlem. RSVP for free at by selecting "MWBE Training & Job Fair (Free)" at the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sh6-the-silicon-harlem-sixth-annual-next-gen-tech-conference-job-fair-tickets-68730052437
Friday, October 18
National Black Theatre
2035 Fifth Avenue at 125th Street
RSVP
Citi Bike Skills Class
Are you curious about Citi Bike? Join a presentation & discussion at my office on the rules of the road, how to avoid common road hazards, basic traffic principles, where to ride on the road, how to safely change lanes, how to utilize bike infrastructure), but the focus is on how to navigate the Citi Bike system and get the most out of those now-ubiquitous blue bikes. Every participant will receive either a Citi Bike Day Pass or $25 off an annual Citi Bike membership!
Citi Bike Skills Safety Class
Thursday, October 31
6:00pm -7:30pm
244 East 93rd Street
RSVP
Thinking of joining or recently joined Citi Bike? This presentation & discussion touches on many of the safety issues: rules of the road, how to avoid common road hazards, basic traffic principles, where to ride on the road, how to safely change lanes, how to utilize bike infrastructure, and how to navigate the Citi Bike system to get the most out of those now-ubiquitous blue bikes.
Shred-A-Thon Columbus Day Edition
I am looking forward to this year’s Shred-A-Thon in October. Make sure you arrive early and have everything you want to be shredded prepared and ready to go. Bring any and all of your old personal documents that you no longer want laying around. Get them destroyed and protect your privacy and identity. You bring the paper and the giant shredder truck turns it into micro bits while you watch! You can also bring compost, eyeglasses, corks, batteries and cords.
Shred-A-Thon
Saturday, October, 12
10:00am- 2pm
82nd Street Greenmarket
RSVP
EDUCATION
Cutting the Ribbon at Brearley’s New Facility
 I was honored to have been invited to the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Brearley School’s new campus located at 590 East 83rd Street. The new 83,750 square foot building includes state of the art science labs, an auditorium, music program, regulation-size gymnasium, lower school classrooms, lower school library, maker space, and common room. The Brearley School has been educating New Yorkers since 1884 and is an integral part of the Upper East Side. I wish headmaster Jane Foley Fried and the rest of the Beavers much success. For more information on the construction visit Brearley.org/Construction-Information
Bumpy Rollout on GPS for Buses
 Parent advocates and I continue to put pressure on the Department of Education to ensure GPS devices are installed on all New York City schools buses as is mandated by legislation I authored and passed earlier this year. As reported by CBS 2 and PIX 11, the rollout of GPS devices on has been rough. The New York Daily News wrote that the city’s Education Department promised parents could get real-time information by calling a hotline, but when parents got through to an operator, the Department still couldn't track the whereabouts of all buses. Nearly 700 buses reported delays on the first day of school.
While quick implementation of a reliable system has been challenging, I am confident that the City’s partnership with rideshare app Via will result in an app that will work and we will have a system implemented that does what my legislation requires. I will continue to push the DOE to fulfill the promise it made to parents of providing a service that shows where their kids are in real-time while at the same time improving bus efficiency. This past month, I met with Via CEO Daniel Ramot to see how we can hasten the process to get the full system up and running as soon as possible with a complete system that allows parents to track their children in real-time on their phone. Because this system requires new technology and is still in the making a full rollout is still months away. See recent coverage of issue from CBS 2 and the New York Daily News.
Supporting the City’s Gifted and Talented Program
 New York City's public school system is broken in many ways. However, our public school's Gifted and Talented program remains one of the few bright spots. Unfortunately, it remains out of reach for too many New York children. There are children from throughout the five boroughs who would thrive in the city's Gifted and Talented miss out because they don’t even have programs in their neighborhoods let alone get tested in their schools. The best way to fix the system is by supporting and adding more of what has been working, not taking it away. That is why I do not believe the right approach to fixing our schools is to completely eliminate Gifted and Talented programs. Instead, we need to bring these programs to all of New York's communities and create more on-ramps and opportunities to ensure students get level-appropriate teaching, no matter their socio-economic background. Some schools have already begun to integrate Gifted and Talented teaching methods into their schools, and as we expand the number of Gifted and Talented seats, we should also be learning from it for our schools as a whole. That is why I joined former Chair of the Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus, Robert Cornegy, along with Council Members Andy King, Peter Koo, and Barry Grodenchik in standing up for Gifted and Talent and calling for these reforms. For coverage on this issue see reporting from QNS.com
School Bus Stop Arm Legislation Introduced
 The New York Daily News covered legislation I introduced that would force the Department of Education and the New York City Office of Pupil Transportation to install stop-arm-cameras on New York City school buses. This use of automated enforcement through cameras would issue electronic fines without a police officer having to be present to witness the violation.
As the New York Post reported, my legislation also increases first-time fines from $250 to $275 and $300 for second and third offenders. With this escalation of punitive consequences for illegal passes, my hope is that drivers will think twice before they decide to act recklessly near stopped school buses. For more information about the Stop Arm cameras, read the coverage in CBS 2 and NY1, and read my Op-ed in amNY.
Fighting the Trump Agenda on the First Day of School
 On the first day of school, I joined Congress Member Carolyn Maloney to talk to parents about the Trump administration’s new Public Charge rule and how it could affect immigrant families and their children in New York City Schools. Together, we talked to dozens of families about the new policy and its cruel effects on immigrant families in and why it has decided to wield the public charge rule as an intimidation tactic against families in need. With this change, the Trump administration is threatening detainment and deportation on families that may be in need of basic emergency benefits such as SNAP and food assistance. As fellow parents and New Yorkers, it is our job to help educate our neighbors about resources and options they can use to fight this. I hope everyone has a safe and productive school year this fall. For more information on the new rule visit NILC.org/issues/economic-support/pubcharge
March United For Public School
 March United For Public Schools is a 5k walk to raise awareness and funds for our New York City Public Schools through United Way of New York City programs like ReadNYC, EducateNYC, and FeedNYC. Each program provides resources that promote the academic growth and success to public school children and their families throughout New York City.
New York State’s education budget has been cut four times in the past ten years. New York students are not reading at their grade level. Some students suffer from housing and food insecurity.
All money raised at The March United will go to support the United Way of New York’s long term public education impact programs assisting with the children who are in need of most help.
The March will take place on Sunday, October 13th. Registration is from 7-9 am with late registration till 10 am. March will kick off in Lower Manhattan at 9:00 am after a brief opening ceremony. The Future Festival, a family event, begins at 9:00 am and concludes at 2:00 pm at Brooklyn Borough Hall. For more information visit unitedwaynyc.org/pages/march-united-for-public-schools
HEALTH AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Proposing Office of Food Policy to Take on Hunger
 Legislation I introduced to create an Office of Food Policy which would fight to end the growing food inequality in our City and would oversee the vast food policy work happening at almost every City agency as well as develop a coordinated citywide food plan is one step closer to being a reality. As the Gotham Gazette reported, the City Council’s Committee on Economic Development held a hearing on the package of legislation being championed by the Speaker. Introduction 1666, which I authorized, would:
- Expand urban agriculture,
- Make sure every neighborhood has outlets providing affordable healthy food,
- Do more to promote the summer meals program
- Expand successful food programs
I have been working on this legislation since 2014 in collaboration with the New York City Food Forum. During this time we have made progress on other major food policy initiatives, including Breakfast After the Bell, Universal School Lunch, and Healthy Happy Meals. For more information on this release, visit BenKallos.com/press-releases and Benkallos.com/food
Standing with Our Youth Striking for Action on Climate Change
 I was truly inspired by the thousands of students who gathered at the ClimateStike protest in Foley Square on September 20th. Students have taken this urgent issue into their own hands, but they shouldn’t have to. Thank you to all the families and individuals who came out to raise their voices for climate action. We can all do something to help change the status quo and bring attention to Climate Change. Make sure you are doing your part. Visit BenKallos.com/ClimateChange
MV4NY Environmental Stewardship Day at Ruppert Park
 On Saturday, October 19th, Muslim Volunteers for New York (MV4NY) is hosting its annual Environmental Stewardship & Park Beautification Day at Ruppert Park. Join them as they help restore and beautify this green space for the community. Volunteers will be working from 10 am to 1 pm. If you are interested, please register by calling 646-267-9410 or 347-224-6232. For more information, contact: [email protected]
Saturday, October 19
10am–1pm
Ruppert Park
1741 Second Avenue (between 90th & 91st St)
Fresh Food Box
 It is important that every New Yorker has access to fresh produce to maintain a healthy lifestyle. That is why my office continues to be a Fresh Food Box site every week. The program 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 through October. Pickup and order days are every Thursdays from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. See our full schedule Fresh Food Box at BenKallos.com/events
WORKING FAMILIES AND JOBS
Asian American Businesses Back on the City’s MWBE Program
A decade ago Asian Americans were in the business of providing professional services, they were doing so well in getting subcontracts on city jobs that a 2012 City of New York Disparity Study found there was no longer a need to include them in the city’s Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) program and they were taken off in 2013. In the years that followed, Asian American-owned professional service lost their market share to the point that the 2018 City of New York Disparity Study found that for professional services “Asian American-owned firms were underutilized, with a substantial and statistically significant disparity. In September I held a hearing in the Contracts Committee on the disparities study including Int. 1293 which I sponsor authored by Council Member Deborah Rose that would add Native Americans and restore Asian American-owned professional services to the MWBE program.
The most recent study is a stark reminder of how difficult it is for businesses owned by women and people of color to compete for city subcontracts. It is embarrassing to see professional service companies owned by Asian Americans losing so many city subcontracts that they are returning to the city’s MWBE program. Our MWBE program took three steps forward and now must take two steps back. City programs should provide enough support to businesses owned by women and people of color so that they will one day no longer need a preference. Following our hearing, the Council passed Introduction 1293 into law.
I have also introduced Int. 1624, requiring key data points already tracked by the disparities study to be updated in real-time so that impacted communities need not wait so many years to find relief.
If you own a business and may qualify as an MWBE, you can learn more here: www1.nyc.gov/nycbusiness/description/minority-and-womenowned-business-enterprise-certification-program-mwbe
Fighting for Paid Time Off
 A rested worker is a more productive worker, and all New York City workers deserve a break. That is why I rallied on the steps of City Hall in support of legislation giving New York City workers mandatory paid time off. Currently, the United States is the only modern westernized nation that does not offer workers mandatory paid time off. This proposal by the Mayor would require businesses with more than 5 full-time employees to give workers 10 paid vacation days a year.
Labor Day Parade 2019
 Marching with Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, American Federation of School Administrators President Ernest Logan, Central Labor Council President Vincent Alvarez, United States Senator Chuck Schumer, and our brothers and sisters in labor at the Annual Labor Day Parade.
Advocating for Construction Workers Rights
Rallying with construction workers who were protesting against wage theft outside Newline Construction headquarters.
Fighting for Building Service Workers
Leading a rally calling on Con Edison to force its third-party contractors to pay its building facility workers a decent wage.
TRANSPORTATION
Pedestrianizing the 59th Street Bridge
 As reported in the Villager, Bike NY, Transportation Alternatives and dozens of activists joined Queens Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer and I for a rally aimed at pushing the Department of Transportation into pedestrianizing the south outer roadway of the 59 Street Bridge into an accessible walkway and the north outer roadway into a dedicated bike lane. Currently, the north outer roadway is shared between cyclists and pedestrians, and it has become crowded as more cyclists use it every year. When congestion pricing takes effect in 2021, even more New Yorkers will likely turn to cycling, so both the cyclists and pedestrians will need more space. The faster we can make this happen the more collisions between cyclists and pedestrians we will avoid and the easier it will be to ride over the bridge. For more information read the article in the Villager or watch the press conference at BenKallos.com/videos
Bike Safety
Following an expansion of the Upper East Side’s safe streets network, coupled with an increase in education, safety equipment, and enforcement, bike safety from 30th to 97th streets on Manhattan’s East Side continues to improve as a result of a program led by Council Members Ben Kallos and Keith Powers. Since the program’s launch by Council Member Kallos in 2014 there has been a trend toward fewer injuries for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists injured in collisions. The trend also shows fewer collisions involving cyclists. Last year, the program included a new bike safety officer and the expansion of protected bike lanes.
Since 2013, when the program launched, injuries and deaths on the streets of the Upper East Side have consistently declined. In 2013, 1,564 people were injured and 11 people died, while in 2018 there have been 998 injuries so far and 4 deaths. Pedestrians have seen the greatest safety improvements, with pedestrian injuries falling this year to nearly half their number in 2013. Since 2013, no pedestrian has been killed by a bicycle, and as of 2018 only 13 of the injuries to pedestrians were caused by a bicycle.
This positive trend is a result of the continuing bike safety program sponsored by Council Members Kallos and Powers is a partnership with the Department of Transportation, Bike New York, Citi Bike operated by Motivate, the East 72nd Street Neighborhood Association, and the New York Police Department’s 17th and 19th Precincts. The program was designed with advice and support from Transportation Alternatives and Streets PAC.
Infrastructure improvements include:
- Improving the bike lane on Second Avenue between 68th and 59th streets from shared to partially parking protected planned for 2019.
- Providing a pedestrian and bike crossing for the 59th Street Queensboro Bridge planned for 2019.
- Doubling bike lanes from just First Avenue and the 90th & 91st Street pair to include Second Avenue, 70th & 71st Street and 77th & 78th Streets in 2017.
- Leading pedestrian intervals along York Avenue to give pedestrians a chance to cross before vehicles get the green light in 2016.
- “Safety neckdowns” have extended the curb and islands have been added at dangerous intersections throughout the Upper East Side, so pedestrians have less distance to cross.
NYPD traffic data 17th and 19th precinct report Year to Date (YTD) as of October:
- 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;
- 1,749 summons issued to bicycles mostly for not giving right of way to pedestrians and disobeying a steady red signal; and
- 81 seizures of “e-bikes” with most receiving summonses to appear at ECB/OATH.
For more information on the Bike Safety program visit BenKallos.com/bikesafety
COMMUNITY
F lip Your Ballot to Vote on the City Charter
The recommendations for campaign finance and community board reform that I made for the Charter were overwhelmingly adopted by voters in 2018. Since then I have testified on the following questions that will be on the 2019 ballot:
Question 1: Elections - Ranked Choice Voting
Question 2: Stronger CCRB Oversight Over NYPD
Question 3: Two Year Revolving Door Ban for Elected Officials & Citywide Office Dedicated to Contracting with Women and People of Color
Question 4: Budget Independence for the for Public Advocate and Borough Presidents
Question 5: Early Involvement for Community in Neighborhood Planning
Please turn over your ballot to vote on all five questions on November 5, 2019 details at BenKallos.com/Charter2019
Halloween Fun in the Neighborhood
Every year it is my pleasure to join families in the neighborhood for the various Halloween festivities as a good way to stay up to date with the community. This October Halloween parades and events will be happening and I'll be there to join you.
Some of the events include:
- My office sponsors Asphalt Green's "Asphalt Screams," on October 25th from 4:00 pm-6:00 pm. This is a free afternoon of tricks, treats and Halloween themed sports activities.
- On October 26th there is the annual Roosevelt Island Halloween Parade and Extravaganza from 12:00pm-3:00pm. Join us in a costume parade down Main Street as well as games, rides and food.
- On October 27th, Friends of James Cagney Place will host its Annual Halloween Costume Contest & Parade (pictured above). The event is 4pm-5pm on 91st Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues. Arrive by 4pm to enter the contest.
- On October 20th, Carl Schurz Park Conservancy hosts the Halloween HOWL. Not to be missed! The HOWL is the Conservancy's annual dog costume event. Over 200 creatively costumed pups strut their stuff before a blue-chip fashion industry coven of judges! Join from 12pm to 3pm at Carl Schurz Park.
- On Halloween Day I also invite you to come with your best costumes and join me for fun and games in the district. Carnegie Hill Neighbors is hosting a Halloween Spooktacular on October 31st, 5:00pm to 6:30pm, at 92nd Street between Park and Madison. This includes a Halloween party filled with dancing, costumes, art projects, and of course lots of treats (for all ages).
Senator Krueger’s Forum on Co-ops and Condos
Learn about the role of the board, the role of management, your rights as a
shareholder or unit owner, strategies to address common issues in co-ops and
condos, and state legislation awaiting the Governor’s signature that would allow
co-op shareholders to obtain reverse mortgages.
Forum on Co-ops and Condos
Tuesday, October 29
6pm to 8pm
Hunter College
West Bldg Faculty Dining Rm.
8th Floor
904 Lexington Ave SW corner of 68th and Lex
Metro New York Chapter of the Appraisal Institute
 I headlined the 2019 Metro New York Chapter of the Appraisal Institute Annual Conference in September. My speech which focused around congestion pricing, it’s possible effect on the City, and how a study on tolling interborough crossings could make congestion pricing fair for all New Yorkers was part of a day-long event with multiple speakers. We also discussed the state’s new rent laws and how New York City can get the most bang for its buck when we subsidize the construction and preservation of affordable housing.
Gender Equality Women of Change Exhibit
Earlier this month, New York City-based artist Kristin Simmons unveiled the first of four commissioned pieces at the United Nations as part of SDG5 (Gender Equality, Sustainable Development Goal).
Below is information on how you can help support this cause:
“Women of Change” focuses on the gender wage gap and was inspired by some shocking statistics – not only do women earn 80 cents to every dollar earned by men, but the world economic council also just announced that it will be another 208 years until the United States reaches pay equality. Proceeds from the sale of each editioned piece will be donated to the SDG 5 Global Alliance with the mission of accomplishing gender equality by 2030."
More information around this initiative and the "Women of Change" piece, including a video interview with the artist can be found at www.SDG5.global.
African American Day Parade in Harlem
It was a great time spending the day in Harlem for the African American Day Parade with Black, Latino, and Asian Caucus, Co-Chair I. Daneek Miller.
30th Anniversary of the Velvet Revolution with the Bohemian Benevolent and Literary Association
Awarding the Bohemian Benevolent and Literary Association a Proclamation for the 30th anniversary of velvet revolution.
Emergency Preparedness Event Thank You
 Thank you to everyone who came to our annual Emergency Prep Event where we gave out dozens of free Go Bags with the help of the New York City Office of Emergency Management. Thank you to OEM Commissioner Deane Criswell for attending and presenting at the event. If you missed the presentation, watch the video at BenKallos.com/videos
Helping the Homeless
 As temperatures begin to drop, homelessness in New York remains at crisis levels with 21,612 children, 17,207 family members, 4,207 single women, and 11,911 single men in our shelters, and more than 2,794 people on the streets. Because of this, in 2016, I launched the Eastside Taskforce for Homeless Outreach and Services (ETHOS) with Borough President Brewer, Senator Krueger, Council Member Garodnick, Department of Social Services (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 (Android/iPhone) 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
RESOURCES
Stanley Isaacs Open House
 The Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center is having an open house on Thursday, October 3rd from 2pm to 4:30pm. The Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center is located at 415 East 93rd Street.
Ride The Red Bus
 Autumn is a beautiful time to visit RI. While you’re there remember that the Red Bus is the FREE and easy way to get up and down the island. The Red Bus makes regular stops on Main Street, Lighthouse Park, FDR Four Freedoms Park, and everywhere in between. For more information, visit rioc.ny.gov/298/Bus.
NCS NextGen Innovation Award
Have a creative idea for addressing the homeless in NYC? Apply for the NextGen Innovation Card. This $5,000 award supports the work of an emerging leader who is advancing innovative approaches related to homelessness in New York City.
Applications are due October 15th, 2019. Learn more and apply.
Education Programs at FDR Four Freedoms State Park
Field trips at Four Freedoms Park provide grades 2-12 with hands-on explorations of wants and needs, rights and responsibilities, and international relations. Observe stunning city views, examine historic documents, and debate contemporary issues at one of New York's most moving outdoor spaces.
All trips meet New York City and New York State Learning Standards and the Common Core through deep observation, primary source learning, and persuasive writing. We currently offer four trips: Community Needs Then & Now, Building a World of Rights, First Freedoms, and A Memorial to Freedom. Field Trips are offered on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from mid-October - November and April - June. Please note that capacity is limited to a maximum of 35 students on all tours. All field trips are RAIN or SHINE. Please see the weather policy for details.
For inquiries regarding educational programming during holidays, [email protected]
Bike New York's FREE After School program
 Bike New York is offering free after school programming to schools and community organizations to teach youth safe bike riding and bike handling skills. They provide the bikes, you bring the kids! The fall session goes until October 25th. Classes last hours (1 slot available per day between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM)
Locations for the classes are St. Mary’s Park (The Bronx), Van Cortlandt Park (The Bronx), Crotona Park (The Bronx), Flushing Meadows-Corona Park (Queens), Forest Park (Queens), East River Park (Manhattan), Inwood Hill Park (Manhattan), El Barrio/East Harlem East River Playground (Manhattan), Linden Park (Brooklyn), McCarren Park (Brooklyn), and Roosevelt Island. Bikes and helmets provided are provided but children must be 10 years or older.
Register or call 212-870-2092
Organ Donor Enrollment Day
On October 10th, 2019, we invite you to celebrate Organ Donor Enrollment Day with us with opportunities to register. Registering as an organ donor provides a life-saving legacy of kindness and generosity.
As you already know, there are currently more than 10,000 New Yorkers waiting for an organ transplant. Tragically, every eighteen hours someone will pass away waiting for the donations that they need. These deaths could be avoided if more New Yorkers registered to be lifesaving organ donors. Register
Men's Clothing Needs Church of the Living Hope
 Church of the Living Hope is in need of lightly used men’s clothing for their charity homeless services. Church of the Living Hope is a member of the East Side Task Force for Homeless Services and a pillar in the community.
Anyone can drop off donations at Church Of The Living Hope located at 161 East 104th Street between. Lexington and 3rd Avenue, Monday through Friday from 9am to 1pm.
Important Workers Begin Canvasing Ahead of Census 2020
All the way through mid-October, U.S. Census Bureau employees will be canvassing addresses in neighborhoods across New York City. The Bureau needs to verify 100% of the nation’s address list, so that every household will be counted in the 2020 Census. For approximately 35% of the addresses in the country that cannot be verified using satellite imagery, the Bureau needs to send workers into the field to verify the address in person.
What you should know about Census 2020 workers:
- Census workers may be coming to your door to simply verify addresses to help get a complete count in 2020. Interacting with Census Bureau workers is safe and confidential.
- You can identify a Census Bureau employee by their official government ID badge and Census Bureau briefcase and laptop.
- Address canvassers will ask a few simple questions to verify the address and any additional living quarters on the property for inclusion in the census. Canvassers do not need to enter your home.
- If you have any questions, call the Census Bureau’s NY Regional Office at 212-882-7100.
See an interactive map of where census workers will be canvassing in NYC.
For more information, watch this video.
It is critically important that all New Yorkers get counted in the 2020 Census, so let’s help the Census Bureau get the most accurate address list possible!
NYC Complete Count Fund
 Calling all community organizations: The Mayor’s office and the City University of New York will be accepting entries for The New York City Complete Count Fund Request for Proposals. The program is the first of its kind in the city and represents an investment of $19 million in community-based organizations to mobilize New Yorkers to self-respond to the 2020 census. Having all New Yorkers counted is critically important for the future of our city, particularly for the communities that have gone undercounted and underrepresented for too long.
The application period is now open and the online application for funding will remain open through October 15, 2019, at 11:59 PM EST. We encourage all organizations that have deep connections to historically undercounted communities to apply, and the City’s support will range from $25,000 to $250,000, depending on organizational size and capacity. Selection criteria and eligibility are fully explained in the Request for Proposals, and will ensure that the New York City Complete Count Fund will resource organizations of different sizes and types that work most closely with the communities most at risk of being undercounted. Download the detailed RFP which includes information about criteria and deliverables and register for a webinar on the RFP application.
Please apply at www.getcounted2020.nyc. Further resources are available on CUNY’s Census 2020 website, and you can direct questions to [email protected].
Enhancing the Stabilizing NYC Funding
 In the Fiscal 2020 Adopted Budget, the City Council allocated $3 million to the Stabilizing NYC initiative, which supports a group of community-based organizations that work to prevent the loss of affordable housing at the hands of predatory equity companies, and to defend low-income tenants in predatory equity buildings from harassment and eviction. The Council has allocated $2.84 million to 18 different CBOs this year, and $160,000 has been reserved for new partners.
The deadline is October 10, 2019 by 5:00 PM and the criteria for community groups interested in joining the Coalition are:
- Must be neighborhood/community-based;
- Must have a focus on base-building, leadership development, community organizing and political education;
- Must currently work in predatory equity buildings and be involved in tenant organizing; and
- Must have a staff that reflects the communities they work in.
Please reach out to my office for a copy of the applications with further instructions at [email protected]
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
10/10: Community Board 6 Full Board Meeting
7:00pm, 433 1st Avenue (NYU School of Dentistry), Room 220
10/15: Community Board 11 Full Board Meeting
6:30pm, Silberman school of social work at hunter 2180 3rd ave
10/23: Community Board 8 Full Board & Land Use Meeting
6:30pm, New York Blood Center, Auditorium 310 East 67th Street (first-second)
NYPD Events
10/7: 19th Precinct Community Council
7:00pm-8:00pm, 19th Precinct Station House, 153 E. 67th Street
10/23: 23rd Precinct Community Council
6:00pm-7:00pm, 23rd Precinct Station House, 164 E. 102nd Street
10/29: 17th Precinct Community Council
6:30pm-7:00pm, Sutton Place Synagogue, 225 E. 51st Street
Neighborhood and Tenant Associations
First Wednesday, 10/2: Roosevelt Island Residents Association Common Council Meeting
8:00 pm-10:00 pm, Good Shepherd (Downstairs), 543 Main Street
Second Wednesday, 10/9: Lexington Houses Tenant Association
6:00pm, 1539 Lexington Avenue
Second Tuesday, 10/8: Stanley Isaacs Tenant Associations
7:00 pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street
Third Tuesday, 10/15: Holmes Towers Tenant Association
7:00 pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street
Events for Adults
10/1, 10/15: Webster Writing Circle
6pm, Webster Library
Join Webster for an exploration in creativity. This writing circle is informal in style and structure: there is no experience necessary. We’ll spend time writing and talking about what we have written. There's no registration or sign up required.
10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29: 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.
10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22, 10/29: StuyPrep at the Library
5:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Are you getting ready for the Specialized High School Admissions Test (SHSAT)? Join our summer long study group! Learn basic test taking skills and practice SHSAT questions.
No registration is required at this time. If necessary, registration will be instituted at a later date.
10/2: Webster @ the Movies: The Departed
11:15am, Webster Library
Webster’s @ The Movies Presents: The Departed Wednesday, October 2th @ 11:15AM South Boston cop Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) goes undercover to infiltrate the organization of gangland chief Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson).
10/2: Meditation: The Secret to a Peaceful Life
5:30pm, Yorkville Library
Many of us worry about the future or dwell upon the past. Our mind is constantly in turmoil. In this program, Jim Rose will explore the healing power of meditation and how to unlock the door to a life of improved physical and emotional well being. Meditation is much more than a simple tool to help people reduce stress; rather, it helps to positively transform our lives.
10/2: The Architect of Light: Happy Hour & Tour of Louis Kahn's Final Masterpiece
5:00 PM , Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park 1 FDR Four Freedoms Park
Join Four Freedoms Park Conservancy for a discussion on the last great work of Louis Kahn: FDR Four Freedoms State Park.
10/2: Bingo Book Talk
12:00pm, 96th Street Library
Play Bingo. Each winner must give a 1-2 min book talk about the current book they’re reading. Prizes (6 winners). Bonus Prize for the best book talk.
10/3, 10/16, 10/30: The Art of the Short Story with Renee Trainer
5:30pm, Webster Library
If you're a reader and thought you might like to try your hand at short story writing but just don't know how to get started, this course will help! Local author Renee Trainer will take you through the entire process…preparing your mind, getting ideas on paper, and help you through the editing process. You'll learn new writing skills and techniques, and find new ways to express yourself. No registration is required, and all are welcome.
10/3: DJ Workshop for Beginners
3:30pm, Webster Library
An introduction to professional equipment and some DJ software from a well-versed DJ herself! For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by DJ Carol C
10/3: Memoirs That Make a Difference: The Best We Could Do by Thi Bui
6pm, Webster Library
Join us for the Memoirs That Make a Difference book discussion group. On October 3, 2019 at 6pm, we'll discuss The Best We Could Do by Thi Bui. Registration is not required. Copies of this title can be reserved online, over the phone, or at your local branch.
10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31: Computer Lab
12:00pm, 96th Street Library
At the 96th Street Library Computer Lab our tech volunteers assist you with almost any computer topic you want to learn. Topics include computer basics, Microsoft Word, online shopping, email, downloading eBooks, resume assistance, Facebook, phone apps and more! Students are encouraged to bring their own laptop or tablet device. If you can't bring yours, we will lend you one for the duration of the class.
10/3: Film - THE BIG HEAT (1953)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
A bomb intended for a police detective kills his wife instead, so he begins a man hunt. This film is 89 minutes in length.
96th Street Library Book Discussion: Lake Success by Gary Shteyngart
6:00pm, 96th Street Library
Please join us for our October 3, 2019 book discussion. We will be reading Lake Success by Gary Shteyngart. Copies are available at the 96th Street Library one month before the book discussion.
10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25: Movement Speaks with Dances for a Variable Population
10:30am, Webster Library
Join us celebrating moving in strong and creative ways! From September 2019 - December 2019, Naomi and company will lead seniors on the Upper East Side in a series of dance fitness classes for older adults of all ages and abilities.
10/4, 10/11, 10/18. 10/25: Learn To Play Chess at Webster
3pm, Webster Library
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.
10/5 10/6 10/12 10/13 `10/19 10/20 10/26 10/27 Animal Care & Control of NYC
Animal Care & Control of NYC
Join us to find loving homes for pets who need to be adapted they are homeless and abandoned directly to the public and by partnering with more than 200 dedicated animal placement organizations.
10/5, 10/6: FDNY Citywide Open House
11:00am, 1:00pm, 230 Participating Local Firehouses and EMS Stations
On Saturday, October 5th and Sunday, October 6th, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) will host its annual citywide Open House program. At these sessions, FDNY firefighters, paramedics, and emergency medical technicians will also conduct demonstrations and offer tours of FDNY engines, ladder trucks, and ambulances. Additionally, with the FDNY Foundation’s support, FDNY members will give away educational materials to raise awareness of fire safety and prevention. 230 firehouses and EMS stations throughout the city will open their doors to the public to give tours of the stations, learn fire and life safety tips, explore FDNY careers, give away free smoke alarms, and more! Sessions are from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. OR 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (times vary by location).
To find further information of your nearest firehouse or EMS station, please click on the link below for the Department’s interactive map: nyc.gov/fdnyopenhouse.
10/5: Pre-interview Prep
96th Street Library
The interview is your opportunity to prove that you're the best candidate. Surprisingly, most people don’t interview very well; it’s not that they botch it – just that someone else was better.
10/5 10/30: Harkness House
10:30 a.m Harkness House
Harkness House one of New York’s most beautiful surviving Gilded Age homes. Curator Paul Engel will lead us through this architectural treasure at 1 East 75th Street
To verify your current membership status, please call 212-535-2526 or email [email protected].
10/5: Instant Shakespeare Company: Henry the Fourth Part 1
1pm, Webster Library
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 Fourth Part 1. All ages are welcome.
10/5: Webster Library Plant Swap
2pm, Webster Library
Finding your urban jungle overflowing with plants? Come share the wealth! Please bring plants to trade. Plant Swap Guidelines: Bring one, take one. Plants are only available for trade. Non traders can visit at the end for homeless plants. Limited quantities of soil, and containers will be available. Please bring plants in portable containers. For more information, contact January at [email protected]
10/6: The 2019 Art Film Festival Presented by the Russian American Cultural Center
Ida K. Lang Recital Hall at Hunter College 695 Park Ave
The central part of the 2019 Art Film Festival is Tribute to Valentina Kropivnitsky (1924-2008) and Oskar Rabin (1928-2018), the pioneers of nonconformist movement in Soviet Russia, soon before the first anniversary of the death of Oscar Rabin on November 7th. We are also especially pleased to show film about Valentina Kropivnitsky, who as a calm contemplative person, wife and mother, and like many women artists of her generation, seemed to be in the shadow of her famous husband. The Festival presents a documentary about the myth and historical figure - Natalia Golitsyna, who is believed to have inspired the poem The Queen of Spades by Alexander Pushkin and the most frequently performed opera by Pyotr Tchaikovsky.
10/7, 10/21:We Speak NYC English Conversation Groups
11:30am, 96th Street Library
No registration needed.We Speak NYC is an Emmy Award-winning TV show created to help people practice English. Each story is about everyday situations, like going to the doctor or talking with a child's teacher. The characters speak slowly and clearly. Intermediate and Advanced Level Conversation Classes for English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL): Adult learners will have the opportunity to learn English by watching We Speak NYC videos and discussing them with other adults from around the world. Come to the Library and meet other people who are practicing English, just like you! The program works best for people who speak some English and want to practice.
10/7: Book Discussion: The Handmaid’s Tale
5:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Come and join the Wonderful Women Writers Book Club in on the conversation of the book The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood. Copies of the book will be available to borrow at the circulation desk with your library card.
10/8, 10/15, 10/22: Outrageous Odyssey Discussion
4:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Sing, muse, of the man of many turns... Join us on a quest to Ithaca in this eight-part discussion of Homer's Odyssey!
10/8:Terrifying Tuesday Movie: Sleepy Hollow (1999)
6:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
A detective is sent to probe a series of gruesome murders in which the victims' heads are missing, thus strengthening the local legend of a Headless Horseman. Drinks and snacks are permitted! This film is 106 minutes in length.
10/9: Webster @ the Movies: The Godfather
11:15am, Webster Library
Webster’s @ The Movies Presents: The Godfather Wednesday, October 9th @ 11:15AM This is the epic tale of a 1940s New York Mafia family and their struggle to protect their empire from rival families as the leadership switches from the father to his youngest son. Paramount Pictures Directed by Francis Ford Coppola Rated R 174 minutes; 1972 Copyright Swank Motion Pictures, Inc.
10/10: Film - POSSESSED (1947)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
A woman gets out of a mental institution and tries to start over as a nurse, but can’t quite figure out how she got into the state she’s in or where she’s going.
10/12: 16MM FILM NIGHTS Start a Revolution Film Series: Ida B. Wells - A Passion for Justice (1989)
2pm, Webster Library
This film documents the life and times of Ida B. Wells, an almost forgotten civil rights pioneer, journalist, activist, and anti-lynching crusader whose stature was equal to such leaders as Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois. Born the child of slaves in 1862 in Hollings, Mississippi, Ida was imbued with a love of learning by her parents; Ida and her mother attended school together in the era of Reconstruction.
10/12: Yorkville Writing Circle Presents: Thais Sherell- Between the Pages: Where Trials Become Triumph! The Story of Joyce A. McDonald and Good News Buster: On the Southern Path to Purpose
2pm, Yorkville Library
Between the Pages accounts the life of one brave woman, HIV/AIDS advocate and artist, Joyce Ann McDonald. Join the many people across the globe who have already found inspiration and strength from the transparency of her life story which transcends from a life of low self-esteem, drug and sexual abuse, to ordained minister, NYS chaplain, and world renowned speaker and testimonial artist.
10/12: Music - Rossini's L' ITALIANA IN ALGERI recital by New York Opera Forum
1:00pm, 96th Street Library
New York Opera Forum performs the complete opera of L' ITALIANA IN ALGERI by Gioachino Rossini. A live musical recital performed in concert with piano accompaniment.
The musical program is co sponsored 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.
10/12: Organic Gardening Workshop: What to Plant Now for Next Season
12:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
This workshop will discuss bare root fruit trees, daffodils, tulips, garlic and other vegetables, herbs, and flowers that we can plant now for sprouting next spring. We will also learn more about composting during this important stage. The program will begin at the Roosevelt Island Library for a presentation and discussion, followed by a quick walk over to the Roosevelt Island Living Library & Think Park Gardens for a hands-on workshop. This program is presented as a partnership between the Roosevelt Island Living Library & Think Park and the New York Public Library.
10/15: Weill Cornell Medicine Wellness Series: Pre-Diabetes 101
5:30pm, 96th Street Library
One out of three people have prediabetes. One out of 10 people has diabetes; one out of four does not know. Join us for a seminar exploring everything you need to know, Presented by Gwendolyne Jack MD at the 96th street Library.
10/16: Mobile Hours with NYC Council Member Ben Kallos
11am, Webster Library
Join a representative from Council Member Ben Kallos's office to discuss important neighborhood topics. This is your opportunity to speak with local officials without leaving your neighborhood. 3rd Wednesday of Every Month, 11 AM – 1:30 PM Registration is recommended but not required: https://benkallos.com/event/mobile-hours-webster-library
10/17: New York City Council Member Keith Powers Mobile Office Hours
12pm, Yorkville Library
Talk about the issue in the district you care about with Council Member Keith Powers' office, and work toward solutions. RSVP: [email protected]
10/17: Career Transition: Job Search 101
5pm, Webster Library
Speaker, trainer, and certified professional coach, Barbara Phillips, will help you get greater clarity on key elements of the job search process and explain key tools for finding a "best fit" job. In this workshop, you will learn: • Key elements of an effective job search strategy • The importance of "knowing yourself": strengths, passions and values • Tips for defining and communicating "your brand" • Research and networking strategies • Tips on designing a high-impact resume.
10/17: Film - MY LITTLE CHICKADEE (1940)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
A bumbling con man and his lady friend beat a shady cowboy at his own game. This film is 83 minutes in length.
10/20: Halloween Howl & Healthy Hound Fair
12:00- 3:00 p.m, John Finley Walk
Join us not to be missed! The Howl is the Conservancy annual dog costume event. Over 200 creatively costumed pups strut their stuff before a blue chip fashion industry coven of judges!
10/21: Webster @ the Movies: Shaft
11:15am, Webster Library
Webster’s @ The Movies Presents: Shaft Monday, October 21th @ 11:15am John Shaft Jr. may be an FBI cyber security expert, but to uncover the truth behind his best friend's untimely death, he needs an education that only his dad can provide.
10/21: Coffee & Connections
11:30am, Webster Library
Coffee & Connections Support for those who are experiencing homelessness or who know someone who is homeless. New York has many great resources and services for people experiencing homelessness but it can be challenging to gain access to them. We'll host an expert who will be available to answer your questions and provide useful tips and information. All Public Library Programs are free of charge.
10/21: Webster @ the Movies: Us
2pm, Webster Library
Webster’s @ The Movies Presents: Us Saturday, October 26th @ 2PM Accompanied by her husband, son and daughter, Adelaide Wilson returns to the beachfront home where she grew up as a child. Haunted by a traumatic experience from the past, Adelaide grows increasingly concerned that something bad is going to happen. Her worst fears soon become a reality when four masked strangers descend upon the house, forcing the Wilsons into a fight for survival.
10/21: Book Discussion: Slaughterhouse-Five
5:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Come and join the Controversial Classics Book Club in on the conversation of the book Slaughterhouse-five by Kurt Vonnegut. Copies of the book will be available to borrow at the circulation desk with your library card.
10/23: Poetry Reading with Anton Yakovlev
5:30pm, Yorkville Library
Please join us as the Russian American Cultural Center presents a reading by Anton Yakovlev of his translations of Sergei Yesenin from his book The Last Poet of the Village. It is difficult to find a Russian person who doesn’t know by heart at least one poem by Sergei Yesenin (1895-1925), whose distinctive lyricism and lush rural imagery have indelibly imprinted themselves into the Russian consciousness.
10/24: Film - NOTHING SACRED (1937)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
An eccentric woman learns she is not dying of radium poisoning as earlier assumed. This film is 77 minutes in length. An 18 minute short film will follow.
10/28: Yorkville Writing Circle Presents: Sabeeha Rehman- Threading My Prayer Rug: One Woman's Journey from Pakistani Muslim to American Muslim
5:30pm, Yorkville Library
This is the story of the Americanization of Islam, through my experience. It is the journey of Sabeeha Rehman's pursuit to define an American Muslim identity for herself, her children, and now her grandchildren; and her transformation from a Pakistani Muslim to an American Muslim. It’s the story of a mother, who, propelled by her passion to raise her children in the Muslim faith, found warmth of the American soil fertile ground for her dreams to thrive.
10/30: Author Talk: Catherine Chung- The 10th Muse
5:30pm, Yorkville Library
From childhood, Katherine knows she is different, and that her parents are not who they seem to be. But in becoming a mathematician, she must face the most human of problems—who is she? What is the cost of love, and what is the cost of ambition? On her quest to conquer the Riemann Hypothesis, the greatest unsolved mathematical problem of her time, she turns to a theorem with a mysterious history that holds both the lock and key to her identity, and secrets long buried during World War II in Germany.
10/31: 16MM FILM NIGHTS Reel Classics: North by Northwest
4pm, Webster Library
Webster Library Presents: North by Northwest A hapless New York City advertising executive is mistaken for a government agent by a group of foreign spies, and is pursued across the country while he looks for a way to survive. Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock 136 minutes; 1959 Film will be shown on 16mm film reel, borrowed by the Library for the Performing Arts’ Reserve Film and Video Collection.
10/31: Film - CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON (1954)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Scientists investigating the Amazon River find a life form that takes people with it into the deep. This film is 79 minutes in length. A short film will follow the feature film.
Events for Kids
10/1: Afternoon at the Movies
1:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Come and enjoy a feature film with family and friends in the afternoon! Enjoy the latest feature films at the Roosevelt Island Library. Featuring: Monsters, Inc. (G)
10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31: Family Storytime
11am, 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.
10/3, 10/10, 10/17, 10/24, 10/31: Free Play
11a:30m, 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.
10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26: 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!
10/7: Start Your Day with Art: Paint a Pumpkin
5:15am, Webster Library
Visit the Webster Library for a relaxing morning of creative expression. We'll be painting pumpkins (no rot!) - all supplies provided! Join us and take home a piece of art. First come, first served. No registration required. First come, first served
10/7: Minecraft Hacking for Teens
5:15pm, Webster Library
Love to play Minecraft? Want to learn some cool hacks to become even better at playing Minecraft? Join us, play Minecraft with other teens & tweens, and learn some great tips & tricks! October 7 @ 5:15PM in the third floor auditorium. This program is for ages 8 and up. No prior experience is required. No registration is required.
10/8: Juggling 101
4pm, Yorkville Library
Come juggle with Tommy and his merry band of jugglers! They'll perform for you and we'll spend some time learning how to juggle together. This session includes a juggling ball making workshop and you'll be able to take home what you create. If you've ever wanted to step right up and join the circus, now's your chance! For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by Urban Stages
10/12 Harvest Festival
11:00 a.m-1:00 p.m,East End Avenue Between East 84th and East 88th Street
Starting at 11:00 a.m enjoy our pumpkin patch in the city on the Mayor’s Lawn at East End Avenue And East 88th Street. Pick your own pumpkin and decorate it. While supplies last.
Meet Daisy the friendly ScareCrow and feel free to get some festive fall photos
Enjoy a family concert at 12:00 p.m with the Rock- A- Silly-Band in the Playground.
Also enjoy tattoos, making Halloween slime, and take as stroll through our Spooky Trail, if you dare!
10:15: I Can Make a Better Book Cover
4:00pm, 96th Street Library
Working with the workshop instructor, design and illustrate your own better version of the cover using collage, markers, oil pastels, or colored pencils. Maybe someday a cover you created will be sitting on the library shelves! For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by Community Word Project.
10/28: Art Buffet
4pm, 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.
10/28: Kung Fu and Tai Chi
4:30pm, Roosevelt Island Library
This workshop will introduce and explore the benefits of Kung Fu and Tai Chi. Both topics will emphasize the beauty of body stretch and it aims in improving health and cultivating mind. The ultimate goal is reaching to a status that both wisdom and emotions of a person are in harmony with each other. For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by Wall Street Chinese
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