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Dear Neighbor,



As we enter the month of June and reach the end of the Legislative Session,
the past couple of weeks have been especially difficult due to the ongoing
incidents of gun violence. In Buffalo, 14 Black New Yorkers were murdered
in a supermarket by a White supremacist with an AR-15. Shortly after, a man
was murdered on an NYC subway by a complete stranger with a handgun. In
Uvalde, Texas, 19 elementary school children and 2 of their teachers were
murdered by a teenager with an AR-15, which he purchased legally upon
turning 18. Words cannot express my anger, grief, and frustration at the
level of gun violence in this country.



Guns have now overtaken car crashes as the leading cause of death among
American children. And two thirds of the guns used in crimes in New York
State were brought into New York from other states with reckless and
irresponsible gun laws. We must continue to do everything we can to
strengthen and refine our gun laws in New York State, but at the end of the
day the epidemic of gun violence and mass murder can only be addressed at
the federal level. This is a national crisis, and it must not continue.

Yesterday, the State Senate Majority passed legislation to strengthen gun
safety measures and ensure deadly weapons stay out of the wrong hands. The
proposed legislation will update the criminal code to make the threat of
mass harm a crime; require microstamping of ammunition; strengthen measures
to prevent those with criminal backgrounds from obtaining guns and ammo;
allow health care providers to file extreme risk protection orders, and
strengthen regulations for high capacity ammo, feeding devices, and body
armor. It would also more broadly define the term “firearm.”



Please make sure to check in with loved ones, friends, and neighbors, and
take care of your emotional and mental health needs. Repeated acts of
violence impact all of us, and we are already bearing the burden of the
pandemic.



Before providing COVID-19 updates, there are important 2022 election and
voting updates I want to share with you, as well as information on how to
report suspected price gouging of infant formula.





*2022 Election & Voting Updates*

There are several important election and voting updates that I want to
share with you, some of which are related to changes in how voting will be
handled in 2022 *or *in 2023 and beyond.



*First, following the redistricting process, the geography of my Senate
District will change, as of January 1, 2023.* Senate District 28 will no
longer include certain areas below 44th Street and East of 3rd Avenue, as
well as above 88th Street and East of 3rd Avenue (Tudor City and parts of
Turtle Bay, Kips Bay, and Yorkville, for example). The District will gain
blocks West of Lexington Avenue in the 40s and 50s, as well as Roosevelt
Island. These geographic changes were determined by the Special Master and
I will be proud and pleased to represent Senate District 28 with its new
boundaries.



If you are unsure whether your residence will still be located in Senate
District 28 once redistricting changes go into effect, you can check online
here
<[link removed]>
.



*Additionally, as you may already be aware, there will be two Primary
Election Days this year: *



· *June 28 is the Primary Election Day* for the offices of
Governor, Lieutenant Governor, State Assembly, Judges, and Party Positions.

· *August 23 is the Primary Election Day* for the offices of U.S.
House of Representatives and State Senate.



*There are also new absentee ballot procedures that apply to 2022 and
future elections, as a result of changes in state law.* The following is
what you need to know, as detailed on the NYS Board of Elections
<[link removed]> and the NYC Board of
Elections <[link removed]> websites:



· If you have applied for an absentee ballot, you may not cast a
ballot on a voting machine for that election;

· However, if you have applied for an absentee ballot, and you want
to vote in person, you may complete an affidavit ballot at the poll site
during early voting or on election day. Affidavit ballots will be kept
separate until the election is completed;

· To ensure that one ballot is received from each voter, election
officials will confirm if a voter’s absentee ballot has been received. If
the absentee ballot has been received, the affidavit ballot will not be
counted. If the absentee ballot has not been received, the affidavit ballot
will be counted;

· If you request, complete, and return an absentee ballot, and then
request a second absentee ballot, the following applies:

ü The first absentee ballot received by the Board of Elections will be
set aside unopened, so that you have an opportunity to return the second
ballot. The second ballot will be opened and counted unless the first
ballot has already been opened.

ü If both ballots are received prior to the return deadline, the ballot
with the later postmark date is accepted and any other ballots are
rejected, unless the first ballot was already opened.

ü If you return more than one absentee ballot before the return deadline,
and you also cast an affidavit ballot, the last received ballot (submitted
in person during the election or by mail within the absentee return
deadline) will be canvassed.



If you want to request an absentee ballot, the easiest way to do so is to apply
online <[link removed]>. Please keep in mind
that *once
you request the absentee ballot, voting in person using the voting machine
is no longer an option* during Early Voting or on the corresponding Primary
or General Election Day.



*Finally, the following are important election dates and deadlines:*



· *June 3:* Deadline to register in person or postmark an
application to be eligible to vote in the June 28 Primary *(mailed voter
registration applications must be received by June 3rd)*

· *June 8: *Deadline for the NYC Board of Elections to receive a
change of address form for the June 28 Primary

· *June 18 – June 26:* Early Voting for the June 28 Primary

· *June 28:* Primary Election Day (polls are open from 6 a.m. – 9
p.m.)

· *August 13 – August 21:* Early Voting for the August 23 Primary

· *August 23:* Primary Election Day (polls are open from 6 a.m. – 9
p.m.)

· *October 29 – November 6:* Early Voting for the November 8
General Election

· *November 8:* General Election Day (polls are open from 6 a.m. –
9 p.m.)



I encourage you to visit the NYC Board of Elections website
<[link removed]> for additional election and voting information, to check
your voter registration status, find polling locations, review Early Voting
schedules, etc.





*Infant Formula Shortage: How to Report Price Gouging*

In my last email, I provided a variety of resources about the infant
formula shortage, including tips for finding formula if you are
experiencing difficulty. On May 21, the City declared a state of emergency
related to the shortage. Emergency Executive Order 98
<[link removed]>
was issued, effectuating the price gouging rule; businesses may not charge
10% or more above the price of infant formula that was available to
consumers 30-60 days before the state of emergency in NYC.



If you believe that a brick & mortar or online business has significantly
increased the price of infant formula, you can submit a price
gouging/overcharge complaint to the City or to the NYS Attorney General’s
office:



· Submit a price gouging/overcharge complaint to the City online
here
<[link removed]>
or by calling 311

· Submit a price gouging complaint to the NYS Attorney General’s
office online here
<[link removed]>
or by calling 800-771-7755





*Please see immediately below for:*

· COVID-19 & Omicron Updates;

· COVID-19 Vaccine Updates

· COVID-19 Treatment;

· COVID-19 Testing Updates;

· Community Announcements, Meeting Opportunities, and Resources;

· Senator Krueger’s Virtual Event Updates; and

· COVID-19 Vaccine Updates: Vaccination Scheduling, Vaccine Site,
and Vaccine Eligibility Information.



A variety of useful City, State, and Federal updates are provided further
below in the email.





*COVID-19 & Omicron Updates*

New York City’s COVID-19 Alert Level continues to be “Orange/High.” NYC
COVID-19 case, hospitalization, and fatality rates are currently
decreasing, which is good news; however, the presence of new variants of
concern, BA.4 and BA.5 is anticipated to increase and become dominant in
the U.S., which is likely to cause further case increases in the coming
months.



On May 31, 5,681 people tested positive for COVID-19 in NYS and 2,802
individuals tested positive in NYC. The statewide 7-day average of cases
per 100K was 32.78. The highest 7-day average was 41.83 in Long Island and
the average in NYC was 37.50. According to NYS hospitalization data, as of
May 31, there were 2,459 people hospitalized statewide due to COVID-19,
with 238 individuals in the ICU. In NYC, there were 814 Coronavirus
patients hospitalized, with 76 individuals in the ICU.



According to NYS COVID-19 variant data, the Omicron BA.1.1 sub-variant is
causing 0% of cases, BA.2 and BA.2.12 are causing 38.7% of cases, BA.2.12.1
is causing 59.3% of cases, and “other” is causing 1.9% of cases. Globally,
we now face the most-recently identified variants of concern, BA.4 and
BA.5. These two variants of concern are the most contagious variants so
far, and they are proficient evaders of antibodies, which is why people who
already contracted Omicron COVID-19, or who are up to date with Coronavirus
vaccinations, are becoming infected with COVID-19 now. As Dr. Fauci
presented on May 18
<[link removed]>,
the higher transmissibility of BA.4 and BA.5 is further compounded by
waning immunity and relaxation of safety measures, such as indoor masking
and holding social gatherings outside, which is causing an increase in
COVID-19 cases. These conditions increase the likelihood of additional
variants developing, which perpetuates the vicious cycle. Dr. Fauci also
provided an important reminder:
<[link removed]>



“Variants will continue to emerge if the virus circulates globally — a
strong argument for what Dr. Jha said about “a global pandemic requires a
global response.” We can keep the level of virus to the lowest possible
level, which is the best way to avoid variants. Because the less
replication, the less mutation; the less mutation, the less variants.”



This is not new information and yet it seems necessary to highlight. At a
time when we are at a High COVID-19 Alert Level in NYC, I have seen a fair
amount of inconsistency with indoor mask wearing and other Coronavirus
safety measures, coupled with low rates of New Yorkers getting booster
shots. *These practices will only prolong the pandemic.*



I recently heard about a person’s trip to Italy, where everyone was wearing
a high-quality mask, such as a kn95 or kf94, when indoors and on public
transportation. The person felt safer in Italy as a result, and observed
residents matter of factly wearing a mask while going about their daily
lives.



I am grateful that our COVID-19 fatality rates are much lower than before
due to the Coronavirus vaccines and treatment availability; however, it is
crucial to understand that we are at a High Alert Level because high
COVID-19 case rates are putting a burden on our health care systems and
reducing hospital capacity. We all need to do our part to help reduce
community transmission, while continuing to live our daily lives.





*COVID-19 Vaccine Updates: June FDA Advisory Council Meetings*

The FDA Advisory Council is scheduled to meet on June 7, June 14-15, and
June 28 to discuss COVID-19 vaccine-related matters. The respective meeting
topics are as follows:



· *June 7 Meeting:* Discussion of an emergency use authorization
(EUA) request by Novavax for a vaccine to prevent Coronavirus in
individuals age 18+. Click here for more information and to watch the
meeting online
<[link removed]>

· *June 14-15 Meeting:*

ü Amending the EUA of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to include
administering the initial vaccine series to children and adolescents age
6-17;

ü Amending the EUA of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to include
administering the initial vaccine series to infants and children age 6
months – 5 years; and

ü Amending the EUA of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to include administering
the initial vaccine series to infants and children age 6 months – 4 years.

Click here for more information and to watch the meeting online
<[link removed]>

· *June 28 Meeting:* Discussion of whether and how the Coronavirus
strain composition of COVID-19 vaccines should be modified. Click here for
more information and to watch the meeting online
<[link removed]>





*COVID-19 Treatment*

As mentioned above, our hospitalization and fatality rates have not
increased to date, which the NYC Health Department attributes to the
COVID-19 vaccines and treatment. The best way to prevent getting COVID-19
and Long COVID is to get vaccinated and follow the other core safety
measures. However, COVID-19 treatments are also important, as they provide
life-saving treatment for people who contract the Coronavirus and are at
higher risk of severe illness. I want to make sure that you know how to
access COVID-19 treatment and who is eligible.



· *Eligibility for COVID-19 Treatment:* At this time, individuals
who are age 65+ or who have a pre-existing condition that puts them at
higher risk of severe illness, and who have tested positive for the
Coronavirus are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. If you are not sure about
your eligibility, speak with your health care provider.



· *How to Access COVID-19 Treatment:* Treatment for the Coronavirus
can be commenced within 5-10 days of developing mild-moderate symptoms, and
therefore, it is critical to get tested right away if you have symptoms or
were recently exposed. If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you should
do the following:



1. Speak with your primary care provider to discuss your eligibility
for COVID-19 treatment. If you do not have a primary care provider, or if
you are uninsured, you can call 212-268-4319 and press option 9 to reach
the NYC Health + Hospitals emergency telehealth service. You will have
intake with a nurse and then speak with a clinician to determine
eligibility. Please keep in mind that this phone number is for people who
do not have a primary care provider or who are uninsured.

2. If you are approved for treatment, the doctor will call in a
prescription for Paxlovid, or you will go to a treatment site for the
Monoclonal Antibody Treatment.



Ø *Paxlovid *is an antiviral pill treatment that involves taking the pills
multiple times a day for 6 days. This form of treatment is for people age
12+ who:

o Have tested positive for COVID-19,

o Have had mild-moderate symptoms for 5 days or less, and

o Are at high risk for severe illness, as defined by the CDC
<[link removed]>



*Please Note:* Incidences of “COVID-19 rebound” have been reported after
taking Paxlovid; namely, the recurrence of COVID-19 symptoms or a new
positive viral test after having tested negative, 2-8 days after initial
recovery. A brief return of symptoms may occur whether or not a person has
taken Paxlovid, and regardless of their vaccination status; therefore,
“COVID-19 rebound” does not reflect lack of effectiveness of Paxlovid,
which continues to help prevent hospitalization and death due to the
Coronavirus.



Ø *Monoclonal Antibody Treatment* is a one-time IV antibody infusion
treatment for people age 12+ who:

o Have tested positive for COVID-19,

o Have had mild-moderate symptoms for 10 days or less, and

o Are at high risk for severe illness, as defined by the CDC
<[link removed]>



*Please Note:* Prescriptions for Paxlovid can be called in to Alto
Pharmacy, which delivers the medication to your home, or to a variety of
pharmacies in the community which now have Paxlovid in stock. You can ask
the doctor to check if your local pharmacy carries Paxlovid if that is your
preference.



If your prescription is called in to Alto Pharmacy, please be aware that
Alto will call and/or text you in order to arrange for delivery of the
Paxlovid. *You must answer the call or text before Alto will deliver the
medication.*



*For additional details, please see the NYC Health Department’s **COVID-19
Treatment Info Sheet*
<[link removed]>
*.*





*COVID-19 Testing Updates: COVID-19 Testing in the Community at City- and
Privately-Run Testing Sites*

Testing is a valuable tool that we have to determine positivity for the
Coronavirus and to interrupt the chain of transmission.



New York City has a variety of testing options available, including City-
and privately-run testing sites, and at-home testing, where a trained
clinician comes to your home and administers a PCR test. Please see the
resources below to learn more about these testing options and other helpful
information.



· *City-Run Testing Sites and At-Home COVID-19 Testing:*

Ø *NYC Health + Hospitals offers free (no out-of-pocket costs) rapid and
PCR testing at a variety of COVID-19 testing sites*, including hospitals,
health centers, and pop-up locations, throughout the five boroughs. *Click
here to find a testing site.*
<[link removed]>. No
appointment is required, however, some sites do allow you to pre-register
for your visit to streamline the check-in process. Free testing is
available whether or not you are symptomatic, and whether or not you have
health insurance. If you have health insurance, please bring your insurance
card.

*Please note:* If you are going to an NYC Health + Hospital testing site,
you can *check testing wait times*
<[link removed]>
before
you go to get tested.



Ø *Request At-Home COVID-19 Diagnostic Testing:* The NYC Test & Trace
Corps offers at-home testing for COVID-19 to all immunocompromised New
Yorkers and older adults age 65+. If you need to get tested, and are
concerned about risk of exposure, or are unable to leave your home,
appointments for at-home testing are available seven days per week, from 9
a.m. to 7 p.m. *Schedule an appointment by calling 929-298-9400.* You will
receive a molecular PCR test administered by a trained clinician in your
home at no cost.



· *Privately-Run Testing Sites:*

Ø *Use this search tool*
<[link removed]> to
find additional testing sites, including urgent care centers, pharmacies,
and labs, by providing an address, zip code, or city. *Note:* some of these
test sites do not offer testing to people who are asymptomatic or under a
certain age, and there may be out-of-pocket costs.

*If you are concerned about potential out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic
testing, please make sure to ask in advance what the charges will be. *



*Community Announcements, Meetings, Opportunities, and Resources: **Friday,
June 3rd SHRED-A-THON; Federal Internet Discounts for Families of College
Students Who Receive Pell; Urging the MTA to Restore Subway Booth
Transactions; Complete the Freelancers Union Survey*

I would like to highlight the following community meetings, opportunities,
and resources:



· *Urging the MTA to Restore Subway Booth Transactions:* On May 24,
I joined 71 NYC elected officials and TWU Local 100 in urging the MTA to
bring transactions back to subway station booths. Their suspension was
unscientific, and has only made the MTA less accessible for older adults,
people with disabilities, and low-income people. Click here to view the
letter
<[link removed]>.




· *SHRED-A-THON at The Chapin School (100 East End Ave., Between
84-85th Streets), Friday, June 3, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.:* This shredding
event is sponsored by Council Member Julie Menin. Shred your old papers and
unwanted documents for free. *Items not to bring:* batteries, cell phones,
tablets, and 3 ring binders.



· *Federal Internet Discounts for Families of College Students Who
Receive Pell:* One of the main goals of the historic Bipartisan
infrastructure law (Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act) is to ensure
that every American has access to high-speed internet. This is especially
important for college students to ensure they are able to successfully
continue their studies at all times. The federal government recently
announced the Affordable Connectivity Program which provides families of
college students who receive Pell *with a $30/month discount *on the cost
of their internet services. College students may also claim *a one-time
$100 discount* to help purchase a computer. *But it is necessary to sign
up!* For more information, to determine eligibility, and to start the
enrollment process, please visit the Affordable Connectivity Program website
<[link removed]>.



· *Complete the Freelancers Union Survey**:* The Freelancers Union
is collecting information from freelancers across the state about the
impact of non or late payment. The Union requests that you complete a
one-minute survey on difficulties with payment from your freelance work. Please
click here to view and complete the survey
<[link removed]>
.





*Senator Krueger’s Virtual Event Updates: Recording of Senator Krueger’s
May 26 **Virtual Town Hall, “Skyrocketing Utility Costs: Why Is My Con Ed
Bill So High?”; Recording of Senator Krueger’s May 19 Virtual Roundtable
for Boomers and Seniors, “Reframing Aging: Building an Age Friendly City”*



· *Senator Liz Krueger’s Virtual Town Hall, “Skyrocketing Utility
Costs: Why Is My Con Ed Bill So High?” May 26:* If you were unable to
attend the Town Hall, you can view the recording here
<[link removed]>
.



· *Session VIII of Senator Krueger’s 2022 Virtual Roundtable for
Boomers and Seniors, “Reframing Aging: Building an Age Friendly City,” May
19: *If you were unable to attend this session, you can view the recording
here
<[link removed]>
.





*COVID-19 Vaccine Updates: Vaccination Scheduling, Vaccine Site, and
Vaccine Eligibility Information*

Regardless of which phase of the pandemic we are currently navigating, it
is always the right time to get the vaccine and booster shot. If you have
any questions or concerns about getting vaccinated, please speak with your
health care provider or call 311.



*Vaccination Scheduling Resources*

· *NYC COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine Finder: *Call 877-829-4692 or
Schedule Online: [link removed]

· *City-run vaccine sites:* Call 877-829-4692 or Schedule Online:
vax4nyc.nyc.gov (click “schedule third dose” to schedule a Pfizer booster
shot)

· *NYC Health + Hospitals vaccine sites:* Call 877-829-4692 or
Schedule Online:
[link removed]

· *State-run vaccine sites: *Call 833-697-4829 or Schedule Online:
[link removed]

· *Local and Nationwide vaccine sites:*
[link removed]

· *CVS Pharmacy: *Call 800-746-7287 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>

· *Rite Aid Pharmacy*: Call 800-748-3243 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>

· *Walgreens Pharmacy: *Call 800-925-4733 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>



*Vaccine Site Resources*



· *MTA Vaccine Pop-Up Sites at Times Square – 42 Street (7th
Avenue) and Grand Central Terminal: *Individuals age 18+ can come to either
location for a Moderna vaccination (1st or 2nd dose, or a booster shot). No
appointment is needed. Once you are at the station, follow the signs
directing you to the pop-up spot. The two locations are:

- *Times Square–42 Street* (passageway between the 1, 2, 3, and S
trains), Monday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- *Grand Central Terminal*, Monday – Sunday, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.



· *City-run walk-up vaccination sites, and NYC mobile vaccine vans
and buses: *
[link removed].
I encourage you to visit the NYC Vaccine Tool if you have not done so
recently. The website has been updated with additional functionality to
make it easier for New Yorkers to find vaccine sites that offer walk-up
vaccinations and specific vaccines: vaccinefinder.nyc.gov.



· *NYC In-Home Vaccination Program Expansion: *The In-Home
Vaccination Program has been further expanded to include all NYC residents
who are age 12 or above. Now you can get vaccinated without having to leave
your home. To express interest in an in-home vaccination, please fill out
this form: *[link removed]*
<[link removed]>* or call 877-829-4692. Please note:
*Even if you received your first or second dose at a community vaccine
site, you can still get any additional doses that you are eligible for at
home, including booster shots.


*Vaccine Eligibility Information*

At this time, the following individuals are eligible to get vaccinated:

*Initial Vaccination Series*

Þ *All children age 5-11* *are eligible* for the Pfizer COVID-19
vaccination.

- COVID-19 Vaccines for Children FAQs
<[link removed]>
- For parents looking for more information on the vaccine for 5-11
year-olds you can watch this recent conversation between DOHMH and DOE
here
<[link removed]>
.

Þ *All individuals age 12+ are approved to get vaccinated.* Individuals
age 12-17 are only authorized to receive the Pfizer vaccination.
Individuals age 18+ are authorized to receive the Pfizer, Moderna, or
Johnson & Johnson vaccine, however, the CDC and NYC Health Department
prefer that they get the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.

*Additional Vaccine Doses for People who Are Immunocompromised*

Þ *Eligible immunocompromised individuals age 5+ are authorized to get a
third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.* Please click here
<[link removed]>
to view the NYC Health Department guidance for more information.

*First Booster Shots*

Þ *Fully-vaccinated 5-11 year-olds who received their second Pfizer
vaccine dose at least 5 months ago *are approved to receive their first
Pfizer booster shot.

Þ *Fully-vaccinated 12-17-year-olds who received their second Pfizer
vaccine dose at least 5 months ago *are approved to receive their first
Pfizer booster shot.

Þ *Individuals age 18+ who received their second Pfizer or Moderna
vaccine dose at least 5 months ago *are approved to receive a Pfizer,
Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson booster shot, however, the CDC and NYC Health
Department prefer that they get the Moderna or Pfizer booster shot.

Þ *Individuals age 18+ who received a Johnson & Johnson vaccination at
least 2 months ago *are approved to receive a Johnson & Johnson, Moderna,
or Pfizer booster shot, however, the CDC and NYC Health Department prefer
that they get the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.



*Second Booster Shots*

The following individuals are eligible for a second booster shot with the
Pfizer or Moderna vaccine if they received their first booster shot at
least 4 months ago:

Þ All people age 50+.

Þ People age 12-49 who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.

Þ People age 18-49 who received their initial vaccination series and
first booster shot with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.





Stay safe and healthy. As always, if you have any questions or need
assistance, please email or call my office at [email protected] or
212-490-9535. If you need assistance with an unemployment issue, please
follow this link to complete an unemployment intake web form so that my
office can provide assistance:
[link removed]
.








* Safety Practices to Protect Yourself and Others from Contracting
COVID-19:*

- *Wear* *a face covering as required by law or regulations, in public
indoor settings.*
- *Maintain social distance as required based on your health condition
and comfort level.*
- *Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or with hand sanitizer.*
- *If you are not feeling well or test positive for COVID-19, please
wear a mask and stay home.*


- *If you are unvaccinated, continue to practice COVID-19 safety
guidelines *to protect your health and wellbeing, as well as that of
your loved ones and community members.






Best,





Liz Krueger

State Senator





*Contents:*

· Most Recent Updates <#m_4834321690110804701_link_2>

· COVID-19 Resources <#m_4834321690110804701_link_57>

· COVID-19 Vaccine Information <#m_4834321690110804701_link_29>

· COVID-19 – Containment / Safety Measures / Data / Research
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_30>

· Online & In-Person Meetings, Town Halls, and Webinars
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_52>

· Physical and Mental Health Care/Health Insurance/Public
Health/Research <#m_4834321690110804701_link_58>

· Food <#m_4834321690110804701_link_32>

· Housing Support and Services <#m_4834321690110804701_link_59>

· Education/NYC Public Schools/CUNY/SUNY/Libraries/Student Loans
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_56>

· MTA/Transportation <#m_4834321690110804701_link_34>

· Jobs, Job Training, Residencies, Internships, Fellowships
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_15>

· Social Services <#m_4834321690110804701_link_60>

· Grants & Scholarships <#m_4834321690110804701_link_54>

· Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_39>

· Resources for Small Businesses & Non-Profits
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_41>

· In-Person & Virtual Community Activities
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_38>



*Updates as of Thursday Afternoon, 6/2/22:*



*CDC Updates*

· Who Should Get a COVID-19 Boosters?
<[link removed]>

· 6 Things to Know about COVID-19 Vaccination for Children
<[link removed]>

· U.S. Monkeypox 2022: Situation Summary
<[link removed]>



*CDC Reports*

· Post–COVID Conditions Among Adult COVID-19 Survivors Aged 18–64
and ≥65 Years — United States, March 2020–November 2021
<[link removed]>





*FDA Updates*

· *May 31:* FDA Roundup
<[link removed]>
including an invitation to the free, virtual Regulatory Education for
Industry (REdI) Annual Conference 2022
<[link removed]>,
which will be held June 6-10. The event’s keynote speaker, FDA Commissioner
Dr. Robert M. Califf, will reflect on COVID-19 with some of FDA’s
noteworthy milestones and landmark accomplishments, and look ahead at FDA’s
future activities in the fight against COVID-19.



· *May 27:* FDA Roundup
<[link removed]>
including an extension to the shelf-lifefrom 12 months to 18 months for
specific lots of the refrigerated Eli Lilly monoclonal antibody,
bebtelovimab, which is currently authorized for emergency use.



· *COVID-19 test updates - Reminder: Expiration date extensions of
COVID-19 at-home tests. *Check the Expiration Date column of the List of
Authorized At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests
<[link removed]>
to see if the expiration date for your at-home OTC COVID-19 test has been
extended and how to find any new expiration date.





*State Updates*

· As of Thursday, June 2nd, the statewide number of confirmed
COVID-19 cases in New York State was 5,418,774. As of 2:30 p.m., the number
of positive cases in NYC was 2,125,465. Please visit the New York State
Health Department COVID-19 data page
<[link removed]>
and the New York City Health Department COVID-19 data page
<[link removed]> to view
additional demographic information about how the outbreak is affecting New
York State and New York City.



We have lost 56,128 New Yorkers, including 34,906 residents of New York
City. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family members and loved ones
of the deceased.



· *June 2: Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the
state's progress combating COVID-19.*



*Today's data is summarized briefly below: *

· Cases Per 100k - 29.74

· 7-Day Average Cases Per 100k - 30.32

· Test Results Reported - 98,261

· Total Positive - 5,812

· Percent Positive - 5.78%

· 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 6.73%**

· Patient Hospitalization - 2,409 (-50)

· Patients Newly Admitted - 425

· Patients in ICU - 219 (-19)

· Patients in ICU with Intubation - 80 (-5)

· Total Discharges - 308,012 (+412)

· New deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 20

· Total deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS -
56,128



*Important Note:* Effective Monday, April 4, the federal Department of
Health and Human Services (HHS) is no longer requiring testing facilities
that use COVID-19 rapid antigen tests to report negative results. As a
result, New York State's percent positive metric will be computed using
only lab-reported PCR results. Positive antigen tests will still be
reported to New York State and reporting of new daily cases and cases per
100k will continue to include both PCR and antigen tests. Due to this
change and other factors, including changes in testing practices, the most
reliable metric to measure virus impact on a community is the case per
100,000 data -- not percent positivity.



· Total deaths reported to and compiled by the CDC - 71,655



This daily COVID-19 provisional death certificate data reported by NYS DOH
and NYC to the CDC includes those who died in any location, including
hospitals, nursing homes, adult care facilities, at home, in hospice and
other settings.



· Total vaccine doses administered - 38,956,967

· Total vaccine doses administered over past 24 hours - 16,490

· Total vaccine doses administered over past 7 days - 108,338

· Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one
vaccine dose - 92.6%

· Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine
series - 84.0%

· Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one
vaccine dose (CDC) - 95.0%

· Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine
series (CDC) - 87.4%

· Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with at least one vaccine dose
(CDC) - 83.7%

· Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with completed vaccine series
(CDC) - 73.6%

· Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose -
82.1%

· Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series - 74.5%

· Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) -
90.6%

· Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series (CDC) -
77.4%



*Each region's 7-day average of cases per 100K population is as follows: *



*REGION*

*Monday, May 30, 2022*

*Tuesday, May 31, 2022*

*Wednesday, June 1, 2022*

Capital Region

32.79

30.44

27.10

Central New York

16.30

14.48

13.41

Finger Lakes

18.98

16.16

14.39

Long Island

44.57

41.83

37.92

Mid-Hudson

36.09

33.64

32.40

Mohawk Valley

23.40

22.31

25.55

New York City

39.64

37.50

34.54

North Country

22.67

20.73

20.12

Southern Tier

26.40

22.48

22.09

Western New York

24.75

22.65

20.06

*Statewide*

*35.10*

*32.78*

*30.32*





*City Updates*



· *Gifted & Talented Program – Apply by June 13:* Gifted & Talented
programs offer accelerated instruction to eligible elementary school
students in New York City. Applications for the expanded kindergarten and
third grade Gifted & Talented programs are now open, with an application
deadline of June 13. Interested NYC families with children entering
kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade this fall are welcome and encouraged
to apply. Virtual information sessions were held on May 24, May 26, and
June 1. If you were unable to attend, you can view a recording of the May
26 event
<[link removed]>



· *New York Music Month:* The Mayor's Office of Media &
Entertainment (MOME) is excited to announce the return of New York Music
Month <[link removed]>! For the past five years, June has
been New York Music Month, the official New York City celebration of the
best music scene in the world, with events across five boroughs. This year
in-person and virtual events will be held with fun for the entire family. Click
here for additional information <[link removed]>





*City Agency Updates*



· *NYC Rent Guidelines Board Public Hearings: *The New York City
Rent Guidelines Board will hold several public hearings and meetings on the
proposed rent guidelines for the period of October 1, 2022, through
September 30, 2023. *Virtual hearings are being held on Monday, June 6 and
Wednesday, June 8.* Following those hearings and meetings, the Board is
scheduled to meet on June 21, 2022, to adopt final rent guidelines. You can
find information on the hearings and meetings, as well as how to submit
testimony
<[link removed]>,
on the Rent Guidelines Board website
<[link removed]>.
You can also find a summary of proposed guidelines on the Rent Guidelines
Board website
<[link removed]>
.





*Other Updates*



· *Recycle Your E-Waste, Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.,
Manhattan Plaza (West 43rd Street, between 9th & 10th Avenues):* Sponsored
by Council Member Erik Bottcher, the Lower East Side Ecology Center, and
Manhattan Plaza. Avoid a fine – it is now illegal to discard electronics in
the trash! Bring your working and non-working computers, monitors,
printers/scanners, keyboards, mice, cables, TVs, VCR & DVD players, phones,
audio, visual equipment, cell phones, and PDAs.



· *Animal Care Centers of NYC Mobile Adoption Event, *Saturday,
June 4, 12 – 4 p.m., Bond Vet Kips Bay, 447 3rd Avenue
<[link removed]>:
At this mobile adoption event, you can adopt a dog or cat. ACC adoptions
include vaccinations, spay/neuter, a pre-registered microchip, a collar and
a certificate for a free initial exam at a participating veterinarian. Learn
More » <[link removed]>





*COVID-19 Resources*



*COVID-19 Data*

· NYC COVID-19 Alert Level System
<[link removed]>

· NYC Health Department COVID-19 Data
<[link removed]>

· NYS Health Department COVID-19 Data
<[link removed]>

· CDC COVID-19 Data
<[link removed]>



*COVID-19 Supplies*

· *Order free COVID-19 at-home rapid testing kits from the federal
government* (current maximum is 8 testing kits per household). Order online
<[link removed]> or call 800-232-0233

· *Pick up free COVID-19 at-home rapid tests from City-distribution
sites.* Click here to see a list of community sites and times when you can
pick up a free rapid test kit
<[link removed]>.

· COVID.gov: <[link removed]> a federal website where you
can look up information on where to get free masks, as well as COVID-19
vaccinations, treatment, and testing.





*COVID-19 Vaccine Information*



· If cleared, Covid shots for children under 5 could be available
as soon as June 21, a White House official says.
<[link removed]>
(NY Times)

· How nasal COVID-19 vaccines can help prepare for infection where
it starts
<[link removed]>
(PBS News Hour)





*COVID-19 – Containment / Safety Measures / Data / Research*



· Kids and Covid-19: The urgency of equity should outweigh the
urgency of normal
<[link removed]>
(STAT)

· *In the Bubble with Andy Slavitt:* Microbiologist Katherine Wu,
Ph.D. tells Andy Slavitt one of her biggest COVID concerns: new variants.
She says the more we allow current strains to spread, the more
opportunities it has to mutate into something even more dangerous. Listen
Here <[link removed]…>

· Meet the new subvariants, your summer bummers
<[link removed]>
(Vox)





*Online & In-Person Meetings, Town Halls, and Webinars*



· *Washington Post’s Transportation for All, Tuesday, June 7, 12:30
p.m.: *Electric vehicles and high-speed rail are regarded as critical
facets of the future of transportation in the United States. Washington
Post Live convenes Michael Berube, deputy assistant secretary for
sustainable transportation at the Department of Energy, and Wes Edens,
founder and co-CEO of Fortress Investment Group, to discuss the progress
made and the potential that remains to expedite a transition to more
affordable, environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

Register Here
<[link removed]>



· *CB 6 Environment & Parks Committee, Tuesday, June 7, 7:00pm:* A
presentation by NYC Department of Parks and Recreation on a Temporary
Public Art installation at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza; Report from the NYC
Department of Parks and Recreation; Continued Discussion of Proposed Fiscal
Year 2024 Budget Requests. *Click here to register to join the meeting via
Zoom* <[link removed]>



· *Washington Post’s The Evolution of Money: Cryptocurrency
Regulation, Wednesday, June 8, 9 a.m.: *The rise and volatility of the
cryptocurrency industry is drawing growing attention from regulators in
Washington. Join Washington Post Live for conversations with Rostin Behnam,
chair of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand
(D-N.Y.) and Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Dante Disparte, chief strategy
officer and head of global policy at Circle, and Tomicah Tillemann, global
chief policy officer at Haun Ventures, about what oversight of digital
assets should look like and their impact on the larger financial system and
economy.

Register Here
<[link removed]>



· *CB 6 Full Board Meeting, Wednesday, June 8, 7 pm: *Speaking in
the Public Session - those wishing to speak must complete this form
<[link removed]> before 7:15 PM on the night of the
meeting. Each speaker will have three minutes to speak on any topic.
Organizations with multiple members in attendance are asked to select one
representative to present their comments once. Speakers are not permitted
to use this time for commercial solicitation or electioneering. *Click here
to register to join the meeting via Zoom*
<[link removed]>



· *CB 6 Budget & Governmental Affairs Committee, Monday, June 13,
6:30 pm:* Updates on Fiscal Year 2024 budget requests. *Click here to
register to join the meeting via Zoom*
<[link removed]>



· *CB 8 Voting Reform Task Force, Tuesday, June 14, 4:00 pm:
*Presentation
on 2022 Primary Election dates; NYC City Council Redistricting; Discussion
on Roosevelt Island City Council District- Lynne Strong-Shinozaki will
attend, and Review of NYC Districting Commission ‘s June 7 proposed map for
City Council District 4. *For access to the Zoom meeting, sign in by
clicking *this link
<[link removed]>*:
*[link removed]



· *CB 8 Environment Committee, Tuesday, June 14, 6:30 pm: *Presentation
by Jane Swanson at Cornell Tech about their work to reduce carbon
footprint, such as their Passive House, GeoThermal energy, etc. *For access
to the Zoom meeting, sign in by clicking *this link
<[link removed]>*:
*[link removed]



· *CB 8 Health, Seniors, and Social Services Committee, Tuesday,
June 21, 6:30 pm: *A continued discussion with Meg Reiss, Chief Assistant
District Attorney for the Manhattan DA. Topics include Bail Reform, Rikers,
and updates on crime prevention; How does the state budget affect criminal
justice reforms previously made? *For access to the Zoom meeting, sign in
by clicking *this link
<[link removed]>*:
*[link removed]
<[link removed]>



· *CB 8 Women and Families Committee, Wednesday, June 22, 6:30
pm: *Protecting
abortion rights – the imperiled right to an abortion and how to respond.
Speakers will include Senator Liz Krueger, Assembly Member Rebecca
Seawright, and Susan Appleton, who is a law professor at Washington
University and a national expert on women’s rights. *For access to the Zoom
meeting, sign in by clicking *this link
<[link removed]>*:
*[link removed]
<[link removed]>



· NYC Small Business Services calendar of upcoming information
sessions and webinars for small businesses
<[link removed]>





*Physical and Mental Health Care/Health Insurance/Public Health/Research*



· *Free Parenting Workshop, Monday, June 6, 12 – 1 p.m.*: Join the *NYP
School-Based Mental Health Prevention Team* for their *Free Parenting
Workshops*! NYP Parenting Lunch & Learn (Almuerza y aprende para padres)
sessions are offered *every Monday and Thursday* from *12pm-1pm via Zoom *in
English and Spanish. Workshops cover a range of topics for parents and
caregivers each week, with open Q&A with the NYP clinical team at each
session. Click here to join
<[link removed]>.



· *What Are Your Community's Health Needs? *NewYork-Presbyterian is
excited to undertake its triennial Community Health Needs Assessment. In
collaboration with community partners, the hospital will identify some of
the top issues affecting health and wellbeing in our communities. NYP would
love your input. You can access the survey online in English and Spanish
here
<[link removed]>.
If you have additional information for the assessment, please email NYP at
[email protected].





*Food*



· *Get Food NYC:*
<[link removed]>
Visit this online map to find locations that offer free food (food
pantries, soup kitchens), as well as grocery stores and farmers’ markets.



· *NYC Department of Education (DOE) Summer Meals:* Starting June
28, NYC DOE will offer free breakfast and lunch meals at sites across the
City, including schools, parks, and pools. No identification or application
is required, and meals will be available Monday – Friday. Breakfast will be
served from 8 – 9:15 a.m. and lunch will be served from 11 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
at designated sites. Click here to view additional details
<[link removed]>





*Education/NYC Public Schools/CUNY/SUNY/Libraries/Student Loans*



· *The Gilder Lehrman History School is back for another summer of
free online programming for K-12 students.* Since their History School
launched in April 2020, more than 5,000 students have participated in
twenty-eight courses with award-winning teachers. This summer they are
offering five free virtual courses—including two Advanced Placement
courses—starting the first week of July, with opportunities for students at
all levels:

o History Camp: National Park Adventure (Grades 3-5)

o Living History: Culture as a Force in Human Experience (Grades 6-8)

o World Wars I and II: Life on the Home Front (Grades 9-12)

o AP US Government and Politics: Foundational Cases (Grades 9-12)

o AP US History (Grades 9-12)



Visit this page to learn more or email [email protected] with
any questions.



· *The Child Mind Institute offers important guides for parents in
their Family Resource Center:*

o How to Talk to Kids About School Shootings
<[link removed]>

o Helping Children Cope With Frightening News
<[link removed]>

o Children Hear the Message of the Gun
<[link removed]>



In addition, there’s a hub for multilingual trauma resources
<[link removed]>,
in 12 languages, including guides for parents and educators for processing
traumatic events with children K-12. There are also a collection of
age-appropriate, brief instructional videos
<[link removed]>
for students at all levels to promote coping skills and aid in recovery
following traumatic events.





*MTA/Transportation*



· *Masks Are Required When Riding Public Transportation:* All
individuals regardless of vaccination status are required to wear a mask
when taking public transportation, including subways, buses, taxis, ride
sharing services, trains, and airplanes. This is a federal requirement and
an important safety measure to protect yourself, others, and public health.





*Jobs, Job Training, Residencies, Internships, Fellowships*



· *NYS Department of Labor (DOL) – Virtual Career Fair, Wednesday,
June 14, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.:* Virtual offer you the chance to interact with
dozens of employers from your home. During NYS DOL virtual career fairs,
you can upload your resume, browse virtual employer booths, and participate
in virtual interviews with businesses hiring in your area. *To register,
visit the NYS DOL Career Center Event Calendar
<[link removed]>,
find the date of the virtual fair you're interested in, click on the event
link and register!*



· *NYS DOL Virtual Workshops:* Each month, the NYS DOL offers
dozens of virtual workshops for job seekers on everything from resume
writing and networking to salary negotiation and the Civil Service system.
The courses are free and provide valuable job search information and
satisfy work search requirements. *Visit the Career Center Event Calendar
<[link removed]>
page to view workshops in June and to register for workshops.*





*Social Services*



· *Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Emergency Benefits:* HEAP
helps low-income people pay the cost of heating their homes. As of the week
of 5/2, a third Emergency HEAP benefit is available to eligible households
that have exhausted the Regular, as well as the first two Emergency HEAP
benefits, and who are in a heat or heat related emergency. Please visit the
NYS HEAP website <[link removed]> for additional
information about the program, eligibility criteria, and to apply.



· *SNAP Benefits for Undergraduate and Graduate Students:* The
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) issues electronic benefits
that can be used like cash to purchase food. Undergraduate and graduate
college students continue to be eligible for SNAP benefits under the
COVID-19 public health emergency, which has been extended through July 16,
2022. Students are eligible if they qualify for (but are not necessarily
participating in) state or federal work-study, or have an “expected family
contribution” of $0. More details about SNAP student eligibility are
available on the NYS OTDA SNAP website
<[link removed]>
and the NYC HRA SNAP Benefits website
<[link removed]>





*Grants and Scholarships*



· *Excelsior Scholarships:* Excelsior Scholarships are open to
first-time students entering college in the Fall 2022 term and current
students who have never received the Excelsior Scholarship. Applications
are open now until 8/31/2022. To qualify:

o Students must plan to attend a SUNY or CUNY two or four-year college

o Complete 30 credits per year towards their program of study

o Be on track to graduate on time with a two-year Associate’s Degree or a
Bachelor’s Degree in four years

o Students’ families must have made $125,000 or less in the 2020 tax year.



Click here to learn more or apply to the Excelsior Scholarship
<[link removed]>.
If you are undocumented or believe you may otherwise qualify for the Jose
Peralta DREAM Act Scholarship, learn more about the Peralta program here
<[link removed]>
.





*Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers*



· *Search & Care Zoom Workshop, “Annie Mardiney: Wild Mountain
Birds,” Wednesday, 6/22, 2-3 p.m.:* Spend an hour with a woman who is
trained to rescue injured wild birds. Annie will talk about her passion
for this work, and show many of the birds who become her educational
ambassadors, when they cannot be released back into the wild – an exciting
variety of owls and hawks whose welfare is her continued responsibility.
Free via Zoom or phone. Advance registration required at:
www.searchandcare.org/events/



· *Medicare Orientation - Understand Your Costs and Choices in
Medicare: *Are you new to Medicare or want to better understand how
Medicare works? Come join the NYC Department for the Aging's Health
Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program (HIICAP) at one of
our bi-weekly Medicare orientation sessions. You'll learn about eligibility
and enrollment rules, choices in Medicare, when you can make changes to
your coverage, and ways that you may be able to save money on Medicare
costs. Upcoming orientation dates include Thursday, June 16 and Friday,
July 1. Register Here
<[link removed]>





*Resources for Small Businesses and Non-Profits*



· *Pace SBDC Webinar on Crowdfunding:* In May, the Pace SBDC hosted
an especially informative panel discussion devoted to *crowdfunding*
<[link removed]>.
Moderated by Pace SBDC Regional Director Andrew Flamm, the panel featured
representatives from crowdfunding platforms Indiegogo, Kickstarter, and
WeFunder, who discussed how crowdfunding can help small enterprises raise
much-needed capital while staying connected to and growing their circle of
supporters. They also covered key aspects and considerations for using
their respective fundraising platforms, and shared inspirational examples
of winning campaigns where entrepreneurs raised relatively significant
funds. *Watch the webinar and learn more here.*
<[link removed]>





*In-Person & Virtual Community Activities*



· *CB 8’s Summer Art Show 2022, James Cagney Place (East 91st
Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues) Saturday, June 11, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.:*
Join Community Board 8 for their 2nd Annual Summer Art Show. You'll find
dozens of local artists showing off their paintings, sculptures, crafts,
photos, etc., featuring local musical artists. Free & open to all.



· *Doggie Fashion Show to Promote Kind Words and Kind Acts, Carl
Schurz Park, Saturday, June 18, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.:* Super Happy Healthy Kids
is hosting a doggie fashion show to promote kind words and kind acts. Meet
at 84/East End Avenue – Esplanade Gate. Goodie bags will be given out for
registered participants. Please register early – registration will not be
available at the entrance. No dog? Bring any stuffed animal! A donation of
$20/dog or a stuffed animal is required. For questions and to register,
please send an email to [email protected] or send a text to
917-369-0032.



· *2022 Whitney Museum Pride Events:* Celebrate Pride at the
Whitney with an inclusive weekend of free parties, history tours,
art-making activities, and more for LGBTQ+ visitors and allies of all
ages. Click
here for details
<Celebrate%20Pride%20at%20the%20Whitney%20with%20an%20inclusive%20weekend%20of%20free%20parties,%20history%20tours,%20art-making%20activities,%20and%20more%20for%20LGBTQ+%20visitors%20and%20allies%20of%20all%20ages.>



· *Picnic Performances at Bryant Park:* From May 27-September 17,
enjoy 26 live, in-person music, dance, and theater events. Click here to
view additional details <[link removed]>.



· *Concerts in the Park:* The schedule for the New York
Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks is now available to view. The first
concert in Central Park is scheduled for June 15. All performances start at
8 p.m. except for the indoor performance on Staten Island. Click here for
the performance schedule and details <[link removed]>.



· Lincoln Center calendar of June activities
<[link removed]>



· NYC Parks Free Summer Movies Under the Stars:
<[link removed]> view
the calendar of movie viewings scheduled throughout the 5 boroughs.



· Beat the Heat: Stay Cool at NYC Parks this Summer
<[link removed]>



*District Office*: 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 1201 | New York, NY 10017
<[link removed]>
|
(212) 490-9535 | Fax: (212) 499-2558
*Albany Office*: Legislative Office Building, Room 808 | Albany, NY 12247 |
(518) 455-2297 | Fax: (518) 426-6874
*Email*: [email protected] | *On the Web*:
[link removed]
<[link removed]>
*Facebook* <[link removed]>:
/statesenatorlizkrueger | *Twitter* <[link removed]>:
@LizKrueger | *Instagram* <[link removed]>:
@senatorlizkrueger
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