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Dear Neighbors,
 
New York City's Primary Elections for Mayor, Public Advocate, Comptroller, Manhattan District Attorney, Borough Presidents, and members of the City Council are right around the corner -- June 22nd.

1.) Voter Registration. Applications must be postmarked no later than May 28th. The Board of Elections will accept mailed and in-person applications until June 2nd. On-line voter registration is possible if you have an ID from the NYS Dept of Motor Vehicles. Check whether you are registered and learn more here.

2.) Absentee Ballots. Please request one as soon as possible, and no later than June 15th. Request an Absentee Ballot here; and request an Accessible Ballot here. (You can still indicate COVID-19 as a reason for requesting an absentee ballot.) You can pick up an absentee ballot in person through June 21st. 3.) Early Voting will take place from June 12th through 20th. To find your Early Voting and Election Day poll sites, click here.
  • The two sites for District 6 are John Jay College North Hall (445 W. 59th St) and West Side High School (140 W. 102nd St).
  • Early Voting hours vary daily and by site.
  • Early Voting locations are most likely different then your usual poll site.
4.) Ranked-choice voting is here! Learn more here about ranked-choice voting. Watch a helpful video here!

City Council Speaker Corey Johnson and the NYC Campaign Finance Board are hosting a ranked choice voting virtual training session next Thursday, June 3rd at 6 pm. Click here to join!

5.) Have you moved? Change of address forms must be submitted to the Board of Elections by June 2nd. Please call 1-866-868-3692 to learn more.
 

Important News for Tenants

COVID Rent Relief: Eligible tenants may seek up to 12 months of rental and utility arrears assistance, as well as three prospective months of rent via the new COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (CERAP). 
  • Applications will be accepted beginning June 1 at 9am. The NYS website identifies the paperwork that is needed to apply for CERAP, eligibility, priority tenants, and benefits.
  • Tenants are eligible to apply regardless of immigration status if their household income is below 80% of "area median income," which you can look up here.
  • If you have an eviction case, it will be stayed while you apply, so you can't be evicted while your application is being processed.
  • Call 844-NY1-RENT (844-691-7368) with questions. 
We will continue to keep you posted as we learn how long it will take for CERAP applications to be processed.

Please be advised that Governor Cuomo has signed an extension of the COVID-19 Emergency Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2020 and the Protect Our Small Businesses Act, effectively extending New York’s eviction and foreclosure moratoriums through August 31, 2021.

Tenants facing eviction must submit a declaration of pandemic-related hardship. New York’s various statewide tenant protections remain in force despite the recent federal court decision which found that the CDC's nationwide moratorium on evictions exceeded its statutory authority.

Tenants who do not submit declarations of pandemic-related hardship as a justification for non-payment of rent, or who create safety or health hazards for other tenants, can still be evicted. Learn more here.

Save the Date: June 2nd Housing Clinic
Tenants with legal and/or housing court-related questions are warmly invited to join us for our June Housing Clinic, led by Goddard Riverside Law Project and TakeRoot Justice. This month's topic is "What to do if a landlord claims you are a nuisance." The clinic will be conducted via Zoom on Wednesday, June 2nd, from 6 to 7pm. We will send out viewing information on Monday.
 

Have you been vaccinated? All City-run vaccination sites are open to ALL New Yorkers. This  includes City-run "walk-up" sites (age 12+ accepted at Pfizer sites; age 18+ accepted at Moderna sites).

Click here for the most up-to-date list of walk-up vaccination sites. The largest walk-up site in our district is the American Museum of Natural History at 200 Central Park West. It currently offers the Pfizer vaccine Monday - Tuesday (9am - 6pm), and Wednesday - Sunday (10am - 5pm).

Vaccinations can also be scheduled via the City of NY’s Vaccine Hub, its Vaccine Finder, or by calling 877-VAX-4NYC or 877-829-4692.

Please check the NYS Dept of Health website and the NYC Dept of Health website regularly for vaccination updates and additional information.
 
Stay Informed! Helpful COVID-19 information sources include: 

Funding for Non-Profits Working In Parks & Other Public Spaces
Two separate funding sources are currently offering grants. Please see details and click on the links below. Applications are due this Friday (5/28) at noon.

NYC Green Relief & Recovery Fund: learn more and apply here.
  • Grants of $10,000 to $50,000.
  • Open to nonprofit stewardship organizations with budgets $15,000+ that provide maintenance, programs, and support for the City’s parks and open spaces.
Green / Arts LIVE NYC: learn more and apply here. 
  • In kind production and equipment and/or small grants of up to $3,000.
  • Open to individual artists and ensembles, community groups, and arts and cultural nonprofit organizations that will present free, family-friendly performing and interactive arts programs in parks, neighborhood plazas, and select community gardens across NYC. 



Thank you to Lincoln Center, the Food Bank for New York City, Disney, and WABC for organizing yesterday's free food bank and vaccination event at Lincoln Center. We were honored to participate as Upper West Siders obtained fresh produce and non-perishable food items, along with personal care products. A million and a half New Yorkers face food insecurity every day. Click here to help.
News from City Hall
 
Plastic Straw Bill Passed!
Earlier this month the City Council overwhelmingly passed my legislation which will dramatically limit the use of plastic straws in food service establishments, and ban the provision of single-use plastic stirrers and splash sticks of any kind. Read the press release.

The legislation, which was first introduced by Council Member Rafael Espinal in 2018, responds to the plastic waste crisis which is devastating waterways across the globe.
  • Effective this November 1st, New York City food establishments such as restaurants, cafes, and bars, as well as grocery stores, delis, and food trucks can no longer provide single-use plastic straws to customers, unless a customer actively requests one.
  • If requested, establishments will be required to provide a plastic straw free of charge, no questions asked. To refuse to provide the plastic straw, or to ask why, could constitute a violation of the City’s Human Rights Law. The ability to request a plastic straw is a critical protection for disabled customers who need them.
I am proud of the Council’s work in engaging both environmental advocates and disability community members. Together we found a way to sharply limit the provision of plastic straws in one of the largest cities in the world, and also make sure they were available if needed. Step by step, we are limiting New York City’s consumption of plastic, whether it’s shopping bags, single use bottles, eating utensils, and now straws. 

You may have seen this recent Daily News op-ed about the escalating destruction of natural species across the globe, and here in the New York area. While perhaps not as obvious in cities, the fate of human beings is completely intertwined with those of the world's eco-systems.

I've introduced a resolution in the City Council calling on the U.S. Senate to ratify, and President Biden to sign, the U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity. This is long overdue. The U.S. is the only one of 195 U.N. members never to join this 1992 treaty, which seeks to preserve global biodiversity, and by extension, ourselves.

Moped Safety
Mopeds are increasingly seen on our streets. In response, the City Council has passed legislation banning the operation of moped share systems without NYC Dept of Transportation (DOT) approval. Share system operators will be required to obtain a permit for each moped in their fleet. The new law also:
  • requires DOT to develop rules on moped safety and rider compliance with all NYC laws, including helmet regulations;
  • limits share systems to mopeds incapable of going past 30 miles per hour; and
  • establishes a fine structure and provides for the impoundment of unauthorized mopeds.


 
Especially for Small Businesses
 
"Shop Your City"
The City has launched a new campaign to boost consumer shopping at NYC's treasured small businesses. New Yorkers are being encouraged to take a break from big box retailers and buy from local businesses now and in the future. The marketing campaign also includes a contest and chances to win a $50 gift card for shopping at neighborhood businesses. 

Bringing Vacant Commercial Spaces Back to Life
Local non-profit ChaShaMa has received funding from the NYC Dept of Small Business Services (SBS) for Storefront Startup -- a new program to activate vacant commercial space with entrepreneurs in need. The goal of the program is to enliven commercial corridors and help micro-businesses, while working with local organizations to implement their own vacancy reduction programs.  

ChaShaMa is looking for property owners and co-operatives to provide pop-up locations to activate, and they are also looking for micro-businesses to participate in the program. To learn more, click here.

Returning to the office? Adapt to the New Normal 
As we recover from the pandemic, NYC Dept of Small Business Services (SBS) is offering a limited 4-session workshop series to help small businesses adapt to the new and "next" normal. This series will provide strategies, tools, and resources for business owners. Learn more & RSVP here. Session dates: 
  • Tuesday, June 8th; 6 - 7:30pm
  • Thursday, June 10th; 6 - 7:30pm
  • Tuesday, June 15th; 6 - 7:30pm
  • Thursday, June 17th; 6 - 7:30pm
Free Assistance for UWS Small Business Owners
The NYC Small Business Resource Network (SBRN) is a private/public partnership providing local businesses with free, personalized guidance during the pandemic. Business owners should complete a brief intake form here, and they will be matched with their own Business Support Specialist who will guide them through a variety of economic recovery resources. 

SBRN is funded by a $2.8 million grant from the Peter G. Peterson Foundation and led by the Partnership for New York City, the NYC Economic Development Corporation and all five borough Chambers of Commerce. It leverages the city’s corporate, financial and professional services sectors, as well as universities, philanthropies and expert volunteers to help small business owners gain access to a range of programs and services.

Federal Relief for Small Businesses
The deadline for applications to the U.S. Small Business Administration's Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) has been extended to May 31st. The program currently offers:  NYC SBS' Fair Share NYC provides free webinars, technical assistance and access to lenders to help businesses interested in applying for PPP loans. For more information, visit nyc.gov/PPP or call 888-SBS-4NYC.

Pace University offers a variety of grants for small businesses. Learn more here.

Webinars for Businesses
The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce offers on-line programs covering a variety of topics important to small businesses. Click here for viewing information.

For Public School Families

 
3-K for All Expansion
A final reminder that the NYC Dept of Education is expanding 3-K for All to every school district, and the application deadline is May 28th. Programs in new school districts have been added to the applications as options for families. Families can visit nyc.gov/3k to sign up to receive email updates when new programs are added, and to learn how to create a MySchools account to explore and apply to programs.

Summer Rising, the DOE's new free summer program, is available to all K-12th grade students, including students with disabilities. Families of students in grades K-8 can sign up through Discover DYCD. Schools will be reaching out to high school students and students with 12-month IEPs to discuss participation and program options.

Summer Rising will feature both DOE academics and NYC Dept of Youth & Community Development school-based enrichment programming.
  • K–8 students will be able to address unfinished learning while being provided avenues for outdoor recreation, exploration, and fun. Programs will provide a bridge to the next school year and allow students to reconnect with one another and their schools. 
  • High school students will be able to make up previously failed courses, complete courses in progress, and participate in academic acceleration. Students will have access to social-emotional support, and will also be able to engage in work experience and internship opportunities, such as the Summer Youth Employment Program. Programs may be in-person or remote, depending on the subject area and community needs.
For detailed information on Summer Rising, including how to find your school's program, click here.
 
Assistance with the College Decision Process
The Student Leadership Network has put together free resources to help guide high school seniors through deciding on and enrolling in college. Click here to learn more!

Important Resources & Updates for Our Community

 
Set Up Your "My Social Security" Account!
If you're already receiving Social Security, or are 18 or older and work, you can set up a "My Social Security Account" at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

If you receive Social Security benefits, you can use your account to:
  • Check your benefit and payment information and your earnings record;
  • Change your address and phone number;
  • Start or change direct deposit of your benefit payment;
  • Request a replacement Medicare card; and
  • Get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S for tax season.
If you do not receive benefits, you can:
  • Check the status of your application or appeal;
  • Get your Social Security Statement, to review estimates of your future retirement, disability, and survivors benefits. You can view your earnings to verify the amounts posted are correct, and see the estimated Social Security and Medicare taxes you’ve paid.
Want to stay in the loop on Social Security-related issues? Read the Social Security Administration's May newsletter for our region here!

Moratorium Extended on Utility Shut-Offs
Governor Cuomo has signed legislation extending a moratorium that prevents utility companies from disconnecting residential households and small businesses that are struggling financially due to the pandemic. The moratorium is extended for a period of 180 days after the COVID-19 state of emergency is lifted or 180 days after December 31, 2021, whichever is earlier. 

Webinar: Protecting Your Money -- Tips to Ensure a Financially Safe & Secure Life.
Search and Care will host a webinar with personal finance expert, Suze Orman, on June 8th at 2pm. Older adults, 60+ are welcome to join. Register here. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar. Learn more about Suze Orman here.

A reminder to older adults that they may be eligible for a wide range of benefits, including assistance with food, medical, and utility costs, as well as rent freezes and lower property taxes.

If you missed our recent webinar with LiveOn NY about how to access these benefits, you can review detailed slides from the presentation here.

If you would like benefits screening and application assistance, phone (212) 398-5045, or email [email protected]. You can also complete an intake form with LiveOn NY here.

Financial Assistance for Internet Service & Devices
People who receive Medicaid, SNAP, Lifeline and meet other income eligibility guidelines can apply now for the Federal Emergency Broadband Benefit. The program provides assistance with up to a $50 subsidy for internet bills and a potential $100 voucher to acquire a tablet or computer. 

Eligible households can enroll through a participating broadband provider or directly with the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC), using an online or mail in application. You can learn more about the benefit, including eligibility and enrollment information, by visiting www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit, or by calling 833-511-0311. 

(You may also be eligible if you: participate in the free and reduced-price school lunch program or the school breakfast program, experienced a substantial loss of income since February 29, 2020, received a Pell Grant, or are eligible for an internet service provider's existing low-income or COVID-19 program.)

Proposed Water Rate Increase
The City's Dept of Environmental Protection (DEP) has proposed a 2.76 percent increase for the Fiscal Year 2022 water rate to the NYC Water Board. DEP says that the proposed rate would keep the cost of water in New York City below the national average. If the increase is adopted:
  • A typical single-family homeowner will see an increase of $2.22/month (based on an average consumption of 70,000 gallons of water per year).
  • A typical multi-family unit with metered billing will see an increase of $1.65/month (based on an average consumption of 52,000 gallons of water per year).
DEP's proposal also expands by $10 million – a 50 percent increase – existing affordability programs for low-income homeowners and multi-family housing properties. In addition, the proposal recommends freezing the minimum charge at $1.27 per day for the sixth consecutive year for those customers who use fewer than 90 gallons per day. See a detailed presentation about the rate increase proposal here.  
 
Public hearings regarding the rate increase will be held via conference call:
  • Tuesday, June 1 at Noon - (347) 921-5612; Access Code 107 181 687#
  • Wednesday, June 2 at 6pm - (347) 921-5612; Access Code 875 205 402#
Free Vision Screenings: University Eye Center
Free screenings are available Thursday, June 10th, from 4:30pm to 6:30pm.

Screenings are by appointment only. All ages welcome. Infants under 18 months can have a complete eye exam done for free instead of a screening.
  • Phone (212) 938-4001, Monday - Friday (9am - 5pm) and Saturday (8:30am - 4:30pm)
  • Location: University Eye Center, SUNY College of Optometry, 33 W. 42nd Street
Jobs Available with the City Cleanup Corps
The City Cleanup Corps (CCC) is a New Deal-inspired economic recovery program with the aim of creating 10,000 jobs and making New York City the "cleanest, greenest city in the United States." The CCC is funded via federal stimulus dollars and part of the Mayor’s Recovery For All of Us plan.

Hiring is taking place across 10 City agencies, including the departments of Parks & Recreation, Transportation, Environmental Protection, and the NYC Housing Authority. The CCC will focus on revitalizing New York City’s public spaces and neighborhoods -- prioritizing areas identified by local communities and elected officials, business districts, and the 33 neighborhoods hit hardest by the pandemic. 

Educational & Cultural Happenings

 
Documentary Film: The Biggest Obstacle
Produced and directed by Gearóid Dolan, this documentary explores the many problems faced by people with disabilities using NYC's public transit system. Hear from the advocates who are part of the movement for a fully accessible transit system. 

Watch an online sneak preview before the premiere (the producers will be available afterward to answer questions) next Friday, June 4 at 7:30pm (via Google Meet). Please RSVP here.

NY Public Library In Phase 2 of Re-Opening
  • All of NYPL’s research libraries will open limited spaces to patrons by appointment only. Appointments can only be made following a virtual consultation with research staff. Click here for NYPL updates.
For local and citywide environmental news and events, sign up for newsletters from UWS Recycling, which come out 6 times/year. Read the May/June Eco Letter here!
 
Beginning June 5th, the Riverside Park Conservancy will host a summer long event honoring the resolve and resilience of all New Yorkers. RE:GROWTH, A Celebration of Art, Riverside Park, and the New York Spirit will be a free, park-wide art exhibition with 13 site-specific installations spanning several miles. Learn more here.

Happenings At Lincoln Center
The new Green at Lincoln Center opened earlier this month -- coinciding with the beginning of "Restart Stages" programming. Residents are invited to enjoy free performing arts and civic programming in outdoor spaces across the Lincoln Center campus. Learn more here!
On-Line Cultural Programs
  • New York Music Month Extended Play is New York City’s official celebration of its music scene, offering free classes, workshops, performances, and talks to support artists, industry, and fans during the pandemic. Runs through June, 2021. Learn more here.
  • Free musical concerts and performances from the Kaufman Music Center's Merkin Hall. Learn more here.
  • Watch "The Line," a play crafted from firsthand interviews with NYC medical first responders during the pandemic. It reveals the lived experiences of frontline workers and their battle to save lives in a medical system "built to serve the bottom line." First performed live on-line last July, this drama is available to watch now via The Public’s Play Now platform through June 21st, 2021. Learn about other on-line programs from the Public Theater here.
We're Here to Help

My office assists people with housing issues, seniors, the disabled, the recently un (or under) employed, the food insecure, and all those suffering the many consequences of this pandemic, to help in any way we can. We also provide on-going advocacy with our public schools and other public services.

Please call (212) 873-0282, leave a message and we will call you back as soon as possible; email [email protected]; or check our website, HelenRosenthal.com. We update it on a regular basis with information about public benefits, non-profit resources, and health facts Upper West Siders need to get through this crisis. 

Warmly,



P.S. Please forward this newsletter to anyone you think might be interested, or have them subscribe to my e-blasts here. Also, follow my social media accounts on Twitter, Facebook, and/or Instagram.
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