11TH ANNIVERSARY OF SUPERSTORM SANDY: New York City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) Commissioner Zachary Iscol marked 11 years since Superstorm Sandy made landfall in New York City with a new set of measures to expand the reach of Notify NYC, New Yorkers’ no-cost go-to source for emergency information since 2009. Starting today, New Yorkers are able to sign up for the highest-priority, verified alerts across all five boroughs with a brand-new SMS opt-in feature — allowing people to sign up for Notify NYC alerts in their preferred language by texting “NOTIFYNYC,” “NOTIFYNYCESP” (Spanish), or “NOTIFYFRE” (French) to 692-692. With no mobile application download or email setup, this new capability makes it easier than ever for residents to stay informed and safe.
In addition, the Adams administration is launching a new public service announcement with a $373,000 investment to raise awareness of Notify NYC. Created in partnership with the Ad Council and designed to reach young speakers, the PSA emphasizes the city’s commitment to keeping New Yorkers prepared for any kind of emergency that may arise. The multimedia ad campaign will include English and Spanish TV and radio as well as digital banners, print materials, and outdoor assets.
“Expanding the reach of Notify NYC is a key component of our ongoing work to ensure that all New Yorkers have direct access to the important and potentially lifesaving information they need to stay safe — before, during, and after an emergency,” said Mayor Adams. “Superstorm Sandy wasn’t just a storm — it was a warning that another storm could hit our city at any time. As we experience more and more significant weather events due to climate change, our administration is preparing and protecting New Yorkers, equipping them with critical tools like real-time communication through Notify NYC. I encourage all New Yorkers to sign up for Notify NYC and take advantage of this important, free resource.”
“Eleven years ago, Superstorm Sandy taught New Yorkers the invaluable lesson of the role timely, accurate information plays in safeguarding our city. Today, we stand stronger and more prepared than ever,” said NYCEM Commissioner Iscol. “As we unveil Notify NYC’s new citywide SMS opt-in feature and launch our impactful public service announcement in partnership with the Ad Council, we are making a resolute commitment to every New Yorker. Today’s announcements show how we are continuously learning, adapting, and empowering our residents to take control of their safety. We are evolving as a city that stays informed, stays prepared, and above all, stays resilient — one alert at a time.”
The city’s go-to source for emergency information since 2009, Notify NYC has kept over 1.1 million New Yorkers informed in real-time, in 14 languages, including American Sign Language. In Fiscal Year 2023, the service issued 2,215 unique messages — an increase from 2,157 messages in Fiscal Year 2022. Notify NYC’s average response time from incident onset to message issuance is only roughly six minutes.
Alongside these steps to expand the reach of Notify NYC, the Adams administration is kicking off a comprehensive post-disaster housing recovery research study. Backed by a $449,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery fund, this effort will build on lessons learned from both Superstorm Sandy and . It will be led by NYCEM and the Mayor’s Office of Housing Recovery Operations to rigorously evaluate and identify optimal residential response and recovery programs applicable to a variety of emergency situations. The aim is to consolidate these findings into a housing recovery playbook, setting a standard of best practices that will serve as a cornerstone for safeguarding our communities in future emergencies.
New Yorkers can continue to sign up for Notify NYC via traditional means, including by visiting nyc.gov/NotifyNYC, calling 311, or following Notify NYC and NYCEM on social media.
STATE OF EMERGENCY EXTENDED: Governor Kathy Hochul extended an Executive Order which provides the State with greater flexibility to procure the resources necessary for municipalities to support asylum seekers and provide them with humanitarian aid. This Executive Order comes as Governor Hochul continues working to address the asylum seeker crisis, which includes the Governor’s ongoing conversations with the White House urging federal action to support New York.
“While New York continues to respond to the asylum seeker crisis, I’m extending our State of Emergency to ensure communities have the resources needed to support our ongoing efforts,” Governor Hochul said. ”My administration remains committed to ensuring state and local officials have all of the support they need to address this unprecedented humanitarian crisis.”
Executive Order 28.6 continues to allow the State and localities to quickly respond to the arrival of asylum seekers. It continues to allow New York State to mobilize members of the National Guard, who currently provide logistical and operational support at shelter sites. It will also allow the State and localities to quickly purchase necessary supplies and resources, including food and equipment. The Executive Order is necessary for New York State’s continued response to the unprecedented humanitarian crisis and provides the State with the ability for a more robust response.
Responding to New York’s Asylum Seeker Crisis Governor Hochul has identified work authorization as the path out of this crisis, allowing migrants and asylum seekers to leave taxpayer-funded shelters and begin living independently as generations of immigrants have done. After months of advocacy from Governor Hochul and a broad coalition of political, civic and business leaders, the White House announced plans to grant Temporary Protected Status to individuals who arrive in the United States from Venezuela on or before July 31, 2023; the City of New York estimates this will allow more than 15,000 Venezuelan individuals to attain legal work status within 30 days.
Earlier this month, the Governor announced the State has identified more than 18,000 job openings with nearly 400 employers who are willing to hire migrants and asylum seekers who have attained legal work status in the United States. Governor Hochul continues to have conversations with the White House to call on the federal government to provide additional personnel as well as more funding to help New York cover the costs of this crisis.
Additionally, the Governor has surged personnel and resources to case management, to help migrants and asylum seekers fill out the necessary paperwork to attain legal work status. This includes deploying 250 National Guard personnel assigned to full-time case management services, part of a deployment of more than 2,100 National Guard personnel to address this ongoing situation. The Governor has also deployed significant financial resources to support case management, including $20 million allocated to local nonprofits serving asylum seekers and migrants; $20 million to help New York City with a casework surge through NYC Health + Hospitals; $10 million for migrant legal services.
Governor Hochul has led a robust state response to this crisis. Overall, the State has committed $1.7 billion to support asylum seekers and migrants, including for shelter, transportation and social services; the State recently advanced $250 million to the City for these purposes. The State has also offered up multiple State-owned sites, such as the former Lincoln Correctional Facility in Manhattan and Building 197 at JFK Airport, to be used as shelters; the State is also covering the cost of multiple Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Centers (HERRCs) at Creedmoor Psychiatric Facility and on Randall’s Island.
RICHARDS TO HOST CELEBRATION OF VETS: With Veterans Day fast approaching, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. is inviting military veterans from Queens to a celebration honoring the sacrifices of those who have served our nation in uniform.
The celebration will be held Wednesday, November 8, at 11am in the Helen Marshall Cultural Center at Queens Borough Hall, located at120-55 Queens Boulevard in Kew Gardens. Distinguished veterans from across Queens will be honored during a special recognition ceremony, while the celebration will also include multiple entertainment acts and a free lunch for attending veterans and their families.
“Queens is proud to be home to nearly 42,000 military veterans — more than any other borough,” said Borough President RICHARDS. “We are having this celebration to express our appreciation for all that our veterans have done to protect our way of life. We would not enjoy the freedom and security we have today without the heroism and sacrifice of those who have served our nation in uniform, so I greatly look forward to celebrating the service of these brave men and women on November 8.”
The featured entertainment will be provided by three members of America’s Sweethearts, an all-female vocal group specializing in the close, intricate harmonies reminiscent of The Andrews Sisters and other performers from the 1940s and 50s. With their slogan of “History through Harmony,” and a repertoire that spans many decades, the group’s performance will take attendees on an inspirational, joyful, and patriotic trip down memory lane.
The celebration will also include an appearance and dance performance by Miss New York 2023 Amelia Collins, who will be representing New York State at the Miss America pageant in January 2024.
Food for the celebration is being generous donated Apple-Metro, Inc. The company is the New York metro area’s Applebee’s franchisee and operates all Applebee’s restaurants in New York City and Westchester County.
Additional support for the event has been provided by the Queens Economic Development Corporation and the Queens County Women’s Bar Association.
Veterans who wish to attend the celebration are asked to RSVP by visiting www.queensbp.org/RSVP.
Members of the vocal group America’s Sweethearts and Amelia Collins, Miss New York 2023, have been invited to participate.
TOWN HALLS ON INTERBOROUGH EXPRESS: Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority will hold its first in-person public engagement town hall meetings on the Interborough Express. Members of the public are encouraged to attend the meetings to hear an overview of current progress on the Interborough Express, including the Planning and Environmental Linkages study. The transformative Light Rail Transit project will connect communities in Brooklyn and Queens to 17 subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road, and is expected to significantly reduce travel times within and between the two boroughs.
“The Interborough Express is going to be a gamechanger for New York City, and as we move forward with this project, I want the entire community to be involved,” Governor Hochul said. “I encourage everyone to attend one of these sessions to learn more about the IBX and share their feedback.”
The first town hall will be held on Wednesday, November 8th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Brooklyn College in Flatbush, Brooklyn. This meeting will be followed by two more public events held on Wednesday, November 15th from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at P.S.007 Louis F. Simeone School in Elmhurst, Queens and Thursday, November 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Widdi Catering Hall in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. The town hall events will provide an opportunity for members of the public to learn more about the proposed project and to provide feedback on its potential benefits as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) prepares to formally enter the environmental review process.
The Interborough Express would use the existing right-of-way of the Bay Ridge Branch, which is a freight rail line that runs through Brooklyn and Queens, connecting ethnically and socioeconomically diverse neighborhoods such as Bay Ridge, Sunset Park, Borough Park, Kensington, Midwood, Flatbush, Flatlands, New Lots, Brownsville, East New York, Bushwick, Ridgewood, Middle Village, Maspeth, Elmhurst and Jackson Heights. The project would include several new connections in neighborhoods that currently lack efficient connections to each other, and in some cases, to Manhattan.
The project has the potential to provide connections between up to 17 subway lines (2, 3, 5, 7, A, B, C, D, E, F, J, L, M, N, Q, R, Z) serving areas of Brooklyn and Queens, and initial studies indicate this new transit option could serve up to 115,000 daily weekday riders, amounting to an annual ridership of approximately 40 million. Travel times between Brooklyn and Queens could be reduced by up to 30 minutes each way, depending on travel distance.
$900K FOR IMMIGRATION ADVOCACY: U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Queens) announced that $900,000 in federal funds has been awarded to two key immigration advocacy organizations in Queens: Women for Afghan Women in Fresh Meadows and the Emerald Isle Immigration Center in Woodside. Both organizations each received $450,000.
The money will help the two groups expand their range of citizenship preparation services available to lawfully present immigrants, which seek to help these individuals prepare for U.S. citizenship and foster their integration into American society.
Established in 2001, Women for Afghan Women is dedicated to protecting and promoting the rights of Afghan women and girls throughout Afghanistan and in the United States. In the U.S., it provides legal support, English language training, financial literacy, life skills and job readiness training, among other services and programs.
The Emerald Isle Immigration Center works to help immigrants become U.S. citizens and involved in civic affairs. It offers a variety of social services and mental health support. Originally created on behalf Irish immigrants in 1987, the group now assists those of many other nationalities as well.
“I thank Women for Afghan Women and the Emerald Isle Immigration Center for the important work they do in Queens,” said Congresswoman Meng. “It is a pleasure to work with their teams and have them located in my congressional district, and these funds will help both groups provide even more assistance to our immigrant communities. I look forward to continuing to work with them.”
“Women for Afghan Women (WAW) is pleased to have received the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) grant for the third time, along with our sub grantee Riis Settlement,” said Naheed Samadi Bahram, U.S. Country Director at Women for Afghan Women. “A big thank you to Congresswoman Grace Meng for championing this effort and helping WAW serve immigrants in the community who want to seek citizenship. Through the USCIS grant, WAW is able to help underserved and low-income immigrants apply for U.S. Naturalization and study for their Naturalization exam. Without this grant, this service wouldn’t have been available for free in the community.”
Siobhan Dennehy, Executive Director of the Emerald Isle Immigration Center, said, “We are very grateful for an increase in funding for the first time in ten years and are especially honored to have the stalwart leadership and vision of our partners in Washington, especially Congresswoman Meng, and Senators Schumer and Gillibrand, who understand and support our work during this critical time for immigrants.”
The funds for both organizations are made available under the 2023 Citizenship and Integration Grant Program administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which is part of the United States Department of Homeland Security.
DIVERSITY VISA LOTTERY DEADLINE: Reminder: the Diversity Visa Lottery (DV-2025) application is online only, and the deadline before Tuesday, November 7, 12pm.
Queens Public Library released the following statement: This program offers 55,000 visas per year.
visit queenslibrary.org for the following links, or copy and paste:
The free online application is available at dvprogram.state.gov/?utm_source=oracle&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DiversityVisaLottery2023_Email3
Follow these steps as you complete your application: static.libnet.info/frontend-images/editor/queens/DV2025_Infographic.jpg?utm_source=oracle&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DiversityVisaLottery2023_Email3&elqTrackId=db3465c2693b4877b67ee6152af50747&elq=7e9e65d79d7043c6bca9edc3f4a21955&elqaid=7685&elqat=1&elqCampaignId=7272.
Learn about the full process for this program at travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/diversity-visa-program-entry/diversity-visa-submit-entry1.html?utm_source=oracle&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=DiversityVisaLottery2023_Email3.
To qualify, you must have:
- come from one of the eligible countries.
- completed at least a high school education OR have two years of
- work experience within the past five years, which require two years or more of training.
Applications:
- must be submitted electronically (i.e. online).
- submitted after Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at 12pm EST will not be accepted.
- submitted on paper (i.e. not electronically) will not be accepted.
- must be only one entry by one person. Individuals with multiple entries will be disqualified.
- Applicants are invited to use computers to fill out the online application at any QPL location during regular service hours. In addition to computer access, assistance with scanning photos will be available at the four libraries as listed below.
Free Computer Access And Assistance For Scanning Photos (In-Person)
Get assistance with scanning photos while applying to the Diversity Visa (Green Card) Lottery (DV-2025) program. Computers will also be available to fill out the online application.
Mondays, October 30 & November 6; Thursday, November 2, 2-7pm
Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Boulevard, Jamaica & Flushing, 41-17 Main Street.
Mondays, October 30 & November 6, 10am-3pm; Thursday, November 2, 2-7pm at Jackson Heights, 35-51 81 Street & Long Island City, 37-44 21 Street.
ANTI-SIKH HATE CRIMES: On October 29, the first Indian-American Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar and New York City Mayor Eric Adams brought together the Sikh community in the wake of hate crimes against Sikh Americans and to chart a path forward to educate the public about the Sikh American community, an immigrant community that hails from north India. Joining them were Sikh leaders and hundreds from the Sikh community. The press conference was at the Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center, located at 113-10 101st Avenue in South Richmond Hill.
The Assemblywoman and Mayor organized the event in response to two recent crimes against the Sikh American community. On Sunday, October 15, 19-year-old Mani Sandhu was riding the bus to his Sikh temple when someone attempted to remove his turban, saying, “We don’t wear that in this country,” and then punched him repeatedly.
There was yet another crime against a Sikh American that Thursday. 66-year-old Jasmer Singh was driving his wife from a doctor’s appointment when he was in an auto collision with another car. The other driver punched Singh three times, causing fatal injuries. Singh’s son Subeg Singh Multani will be among the speakers tomorrow.
These attacks are part of a nationwide trend: in 2021, the most recent year for which data is available, documented hate crimes against the Sikh community increased 140% across the country. Hate crimes have been frequent in the Richmond Hill area.
The first Indian-American woman elected to New York State Office, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar has taken the lead to educate New York State about Sikh New Yorkers. The Assemblywoman’s family is from Amritsar, India, the Sikh Holy City. The Assemblywoman now represents Richmond Hill, often referred to as the “Sikh Capital of the USA.” Assemblywoman Rajkumar authored and introduced the historic first ever resolution proclaiming April as Punjabi Heritage Month, recognizing the region that is the birthplace of Sikhism, and speaks regularly on the Assembly floor educating the state about Sikh-American culture, speeches that air on a loop on Jus Punjabi and other Sikh news outlets.
Mayor Adams said on X (Twitter), “On behalf of all New Yorkers, I want our Sikh community to know you have more than our condolences. You have our sacred vow that we reject the hatred that took this innocent life and we will protect you.”
Assemblywoman Rajkumar said, “Sikhs are our protectors: their faith preaches seva, meaning ‘selfless service.’ Their religion teaches that there is divinity in everyone of any faith, and that there is an obligation to protect the welfare of all humanity. Every single day, Sikhs serve free meals to anyone who asks, the practice of langar. Their daily prayers include the saying, ‘Blessings for everyone.’ Every practitioner of this beautiful faith deserves our unyielding respect.
“As the first Punjabi-American ever elected to New York State Office, I will always fight for the freedom and dignity of Sikh Americans and people of every faith. I will continue working with New York City Mayor Eric Adams, Police Commissioner Edward Caban, and all stakeholders to deliver the resources for our Sikh family to live in peace and safety.”
The first Indian woman elected to New York State Office, Assemblywoman Rajkumar led and won the historic fight for the Diwali school holiday, allowing Sikh Americans to celebrate one of their holiest days of the year. She also authored and passed an historic Punjabi Heritage Month resolution recognizing Sikh Americans. She has taken the lead in responding to several hate crime incidents against Sikh New Yorkers.
WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS SUPPORT: U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-NY) and María Elvira Salazar (R-FL) reintroduced a bipartisan bill in the House of Representatives to help increase federal support for female entrepreneurs and women-owned businesses. The legislation was also reintroduced in the Senate by Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).
The Interagency Committee on Women’s Business Enterprise Act would reauthorize the Interagency Committee on Women’s Business Enterprise (ICWBE) by making sure a chairperson is appointed to operate the panel.
Established in 1979, the ICWBE is a U.S. government entity charged with coordinating federal resources to help women-owned businesses grow and succeed. It was maintained during both Democratic and Republican administrations but became inactive in 2000. Since then, no other federal agency has had the authority to help coordinate federal resources for women owned businesses.
Appointing a chairperson would help increase the ability of the federal government to provide targeted assistance to women entrepreneurs as they seek to start and grow their businesses. It would also update the agencies and departments that would coordinate to make sure all resources are being used effectively. In addition, the bill would update the interagency mission to identify the barriers women business owners and women entrepreneurs face in starting and growing their businesses.
“As a former member of the House Small Business Committee and the daughter of small business owners in Queens, I know firsthand the importance of empowering entrepreneurs and how that not only helps our local communities, but our national economy,” said Rep. Meng. “Doing all that we can to help empower half of the nation’s entrepreneurs, just makes sense and is the right thing to do. Helping women business owners flourish helps ensure a strong economy and greater prosperity. The fact that this is a bipartisan and bicameral effort, shows how important this is for our country, and the millions of female entrepreneurs across the nation.”
If revived, the ICWBE would look at the behavior of federal agencies in how they support, expand, and strengthen resources and programs for women-owned businesses – ultimately making sure that the federal government is doing all it can to support female entrepreneurs.
19 YEARS FOR RUFUS KING SHOOTING: Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Torren King was sentenced to 19 years in prison after pleading guilty to manslaughter in the shooting death of a 22-year-old man in Rufus King Park. Two others charged in the shooting, stemming from a drug deal gone bad, are awaiting trial.
District Attorney Katz said: “Less than $1,000 worth of marijuana cost a young man his life. This kind of mindless gun violence, in a public park in broad daylight, is why we will not relent in the fight against illegal guns. It is why we will continue to do everything we can to get lethal firearms and the criminals who use them off our streets.”
King, 20, of Beach 47th Street in Far Rockaway, pleaded guilty in July to manslaughter in the first degree for the park shooting, which occurred in 2020. He also pleaded guilty to criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree in an unrelated incident, admitting to firing a gun in Jamaica in June 2021. Justice Kenneth Holder sentenced King to a determinate term of 19 years in prison for manslaughter and to a determinate term of 10 years for the weapon charge. The sentences are to be served concurrently.
Two co-defendants in the Rufus King Park shooting are awaiting trial.
According to the charges:
On October 15, 2020, at approximately 4:30 p.m., Numani Lambert, 22, and two companions arrived at Rufus King Park after they had arranged on Facebook to sell marijuana to a buyer who went by the online name “Pimmy Don.”
One of Lambert’s companions used Facebook to send messages to “Pimmy Don,” who responded that he was sending his “boys” to the park to make the buy.
Lambert and his companions met King and another man in the park. Because King refused to pay, no marijuana changed hands and Lambert and his companions turned and walked away.
King called them back. With Lambert directly in front of him, King pulled out a gun and said, “Now you have to give it to me,” and fired two shots. A single bullet struck Lambert in the head. The Bronx man died three days later at a nearby hospital.
During a court-authorized search of a co-defendant’s residence, police recovered the murder weapon, a 9mm Luger, along with nine rounds of ammunition.
The man was later identified as the would-be buyer, “Pimmy Don.” He instructed King to rob Lambert and his companions and had another co-defendant drive King to and from the park.
FACES 25 FOR ROAD RAGE SHOOTING: Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Alexis Morillo was charged with attempted murder, accused of shooting while driving on the Long Island Expressway at another motorist, an off-duty NYPD detective, in an apparent fit of road rage.
District Attorney Katz said: “A police detective nearly lost his life in a mindless act of violence. We cannot relent in our efforts to get guns off the street and will continue to do all we can to keep our detectives and communities safe.”
Morillo, 40, of Hammersley Avenue in the Bronx, was arraigned on a six-count indictment charging him with attempted murder in the second degree; attempted assault in the first degree; two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree; reckless driving; and unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree. If convicted, Morillo faces up to 25 years in prison. Supreme Court Justice Toni Cimino ordered him to return to court on November 20.
According to the charges:
On September 17, at approximately 12:20 a.m., an off-duty police detective was driving eastbound on the Long Island Expressway near the Cross Island Parkway. He was in the left lane behind a white Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV driven by Morillo when he passed Morillo on the right and re-entered the left lane.
Morillo then drove into the middle lane alongside the detective’s car and matched his speed. The detective looked over and saw Morillo, who was alone in the car, yelling at him.
The detective glanced over again at Morillo’s car and saw a muzzle flash. A bullet struck his car on the passenger side.
The detective slowed slightly and began to follow the Morillo’s Mercedes-Benz as its sped off and exited the LIE and then re-entered the expressway heading westbound. The detective called 911 from his car and reported the defendant’s license plate number. He continued following Morillo until they reached the vicinity of the Horace Harding Expressway, where he lost sight of him.
Police found a bullet hole in the front passenger side panel of the detective’s car and eventually recovered a deformed bullet fragment from inside the panel. Morillo’s vehicle, which was registered to his girlfriend, was abandoned in Astoria. Records indicate that after the time of the incident, Morillo called an Uber to travel from Astoria home to the Bronx.
HOCHUL SIGNS AFFORDABLE HOUSING BILLS: Governor Hochul signed legislation to build and preserve more affordable, energy-efficient housing in New York City. Legislation S. 4709A/A. 7758 authorizes New York City to adopt a new affordable housing rehabilitation program to replace the former J-51 program. Legislation S. 2985C/A.6655A establishes the “Housing Affordability, Resiliency, and Energy Efficiency Investment Act of 2023,” giving New York City more flexibility to provide loans and grants for affordable housing and other related investments. These can include climate resiliency improvements to help ensure the sustainability of affordable housing. Legislation A. 7359/S. 6750 increases the New York City Housing Development Corporation’s bonding capacity.
“In light of New York’s housing crisis, I am proud to sign this legislation, which will allow for the construction and preservation of more affordable, sustainable, and sorely needed housing in New York City,” Governor Hochul said. ”I am committed to increasing the housing supply to address our housing shortage, and I will continue to work with the Legislature on solutions to ensure that all New Yorkers have a safe, stable, and affordable place to call home.”
Legislation S.4709A/A.7758 enables New York City to replace the former J-51 program, which expired on June 29, 2022. The legislation allows New York City to provide tax abatement benefits for eligible construction projects to preserve and improve certain affordable rental and homeownership buildings. In doing so, the legislation will help to retain and improve the quality of the City’s existing affordable housing supply, which is critical to supporting low- and moderate-income families and ensuring the City and State do not lose ground as they seek to add much needed housing.
State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky said, ”I want to thank Governor Hochul for signing this legislation which restores and improves a new J-51 tax abatement incentive. This program helps property owners who have been squeezed by local taxes and regulations modernize their buildings, improving safety and quality of life for their residents. This legislation will allow more middle class co-ops and condos to make capital improvement upgrades ranging from heating systems and plumbing, to windows, elevators and more. It will also be retroactive to work done since the former bill expired. With the cost of living on the rise, it is critical that we make sure our working middle class families can live in affordable housing.”
Assemblymember Edward Braunstein said, ”As middle-class co-op and condo owners – many of whom are seniors on a fixed income or young families – grapple with a rising cost of living, it is imperative that New York State does its part to alleviate the burden. With the new Affordable Housing Rehabilitation Program, formerly known as J-51, I fought hard to raise the assessed value threshold, allowing even more co-ops to qualify for this cost-saving program, which in turn will hold down maintenance costs. I want to thank the Mayor’s Office for working with me on the bill, Governor Hochul for signing it into law, and Senators Stavisky and Kavanagh for partnering to see through its passage.”
Legislation S.2985C/A.6655A establishes the Housing Affordability, Resiliency, and Energy Efficiency Investment Act of 2023, giving New York City more flexibility to provide loans and grants for affordable housing and other related investments. The legislation modernizes existing financing laws that support the construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of affordable housing and helps to ensure that these programs can also support resiliency and energy efficiency upgrades in line with the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. The legislation also allows the City to use municipal funds to provide down payment assistance to prospective homebuyers. By giving the City more flexibility to provide loans and grants, this legislation will help to create and preserve more affordable housing, expand homeownership opportunities for more New Yorkers, and support the State’s climate resiliency and energy efficiency goals.
Legislation A.7359/S.6750 increases the bonding capacity for the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), the nation’s largest municipal housing finance agency and one of the nation’s top issuers of affordable multifamily housing bonds, to $19 billion. Without an increase, HDC is expected to run out of bonding capacity by mid-2024. By increasing the availability of municipal housing bonds, this legislation will support the creation and preservation of more affordable housing in New York City, as well as support critical investments in public housing.
HELP HOMEOWNERS PAY FOR FLOOD PREVENTION: Weeks after New York City was impacted by major rains and floods and just days before the 11th anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) is searching for a partner organization to launch the expansion of a program that helps low- and moderate-income homeowners pay for repairs and upgrades to their properties – including improvements to protect their homes from extreme weather and flooding events. The City housing agency’s request for interested parties to submit their proposals to implement the program expansion moves NYC one step closer to capitalizing on a key initiative of Mayor Eric Adams’s “Housing our Neighbors” Blueprint, to help communities build and maintain intergenerational wealth through homeownership.
“As the impacts of climate change grow, New York City is committed to maintaining safe and resilient homes, with a focus on supporting lower income homeowners,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing, Economic Development and Workforce Maria Torres-Springer. “Equipping homeowners with critical funding to prevent the worst impacts of flooding provides New Yorkers with the peace of mind through future weather events, and builds on this administration’s work on sustainability, reducing emissions and decreasing energy costs.”
“Just weeks ago, torrential rains and flooding underscored the critical need to help homeowners protect and prepare their homes for inevitable and more frequent storms,” said HPD Commissioner Adolfo Carrión Jr. ”We are witnessing the direct impacts of climate change, especially in the city’s costal floodplain, where many homeowners live. We are committed to equipping homeowners to face that reality. Through this process, we will bring on a new partner to deliver vital repairs and improvements to homes across the city.”
Originally launched in 2019, HomeFix provides access to low- or no-interest loans up to $60,000 per unit to owners of one-to four-family homes in New York City. The loans pay for repairs that address building systems, housing deficiencies, and other conditions that may be hazardous to residents’ health and safety. Eligible renovations may include window replacement and heating, hot water, roofing repairs, and accessibility improvements to help seniors age in place. The program pairs both financial and technical assistance from community-based organizations and non-profit partners, providing financial counseling, construction management, and other individualized services to help homeowners achieve long-term stability.
In the first three years after the program launched, homeowners expressed a lot of interest. To meet this demand, the City is expanding this critical program to help homeowners without access to traditional home repair financing address urgent repair and maintenance needs. The expanded program, HomeFix 2.0, will be funded through a contract with the City for the first time, allowing for the program to cover sustainability and resiliency upgrades to reduce energy costs, advance emissions reduction goals, and help protect homeowners from extreme weather and flooding events.
The request to bring on a new partner to help lead this work comes at a critical time as the city is still recovering from heavy rain and flooding just weeks ago, and as this program aims to serve a population that is particularly vulnerable to flood damage. This Sunday, October 29, marks the 11th anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, underscoring the dire need for supporting homeowners in protecting their homes. Seventy-five percent of buildings in the city’s coastal floodplain are one- to four-family homes, highlighting the urgent need to address increased flood risks and other climate threats. In doing so, HomeFix 2.0 will support the long-term preservation of the city’s housing stock, promote the health and safety of residents, and provide critical stability for approximately 150 homeowners each year.
Many low- and moderate-income homeowners need assistance to keep up with rising costs. This need has only grown since the pandemic, which caused instability for many low- and moderate-income homeowners. Rising inflation, supply chain constraints, higher interest rates, and other costs have made home maintenance more expensive than ever. The expansion of HomeFix 2.0 is a vital part of a range of strategies the City is deploying to help existing homeowners address physical and financial conditions in small buildings, prevent foreclosure and displacement, and ensure the long-term stability of one- to four-family homes that are one of New York City’s most important vehicles for neighborhood stabilization, economic mobility, and intergenerational wealth creation.
To learn more about HPD’s programs for homeowners visit the HPD website. For more information about submitting a proposal to the HomeFix 2.0 RFP and other request for proposals, please visit PASSPort.
ENERGY SAVING PROGRAMS: Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. is hosting virtual webinar with Con Edison to inform constituents about money-saving energy programs that are available under their umbrella Energy Rebates Fit for Queens.
Con Edison has launched this program to provide up to 100% of the cost to make eligible energy efficient upgrades in Southeast and Eastern Queens. It will assist in bringing substantial savings to many residents and businesses in the district.
“I am proud to partner with Con Ed to bring this important information to the community,” Addabbo said. “Reducing energy costs is not just about saving money; it’s about embracing sustainability, promoting environmental awareness and improvements, while securing a brighter future for generations to come.”
The webinar will be held on Zoom on Monday, November 13, from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Join Zoom Meeting
us02web.zoom.us/j/87540070710?pwd=N0VWZTl6K3E5dHZzYytSMzc1SEtuZz09
Meeting ID: 875 4007 0710
Passcode: 871818
If your building or business is in southeast Queens and you have an active Con Edison electric account, you may be eligible for additional energy-efficiency incentives through the Neighborhood Program on top of the incentives from Con Edison core energy efficiency programs.
The Neighborhood Program incentives may cover up to 100% of your project cost.
The Neighborhood Program Has Higher Incentives For:
Commercial and Industrial Buildings: LED lighting and controls, HVAC equipment, and more.
Multifamily Buildings: Common area LED lighting and controls, HVAC equipment, elevator upgrades, free installation of in-unit LEDs for tenants, and more.
Small-Medium Business (SMB) Buildings: LED lighting and controls, refrigeration, HVAC equipment, and more. Houses of worship, non-profits, schools, and veteran organizations all may be eligible for additional program incentives.
There are also incentives available for heat pumps, hot water systems, energy management systems, and more through Con Edison’s core energy efficiency incentive programs.
By completing these upgrades, you may be able to lower energy and maintenance costs and bring your space in compliance with local laws.
$360M HOME ENERGY ASSISTANCE: U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a video press conference to announce the $360,015,351 in federal funding she helped secure for New York through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The money will help thousands of households across the state afford their heating bills and make cost-effective home energy repairs this winter. She also announced her bipartisan push to secure additional funding for LIHEAP to make sure that as many qualifying families as possible get the assistance they need to stay safe and warm throughout the coming months.
“LIHEAP provides a lifeline for low-income families and seniors and I’m proud to have helped secure $360 million in LIHEAP funds to extend this lifeline to thousands of New Yorkers this winter,” said Senator Gillibrand. “But we know from past years that this money will not be enough to provide assistance to everyone who qualifies for it. That’s why I’m also calling for additional supplemental LIHEAP funding to help ensure that as many New Yorkers as possible receive aid. I’m committed to securing it.”
The full text of Senator Gillibrand’s bipartisan letter to White House Office of Management and Budget Director Shalanda Young and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra calling for the Biden administration to include additional LIHEAP funds in any supplemental request for FY24 appropriations is available at gillibrand.senate.gov (www.gillibrand.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/liheap_supplemental_letter_101123.pdf).
New York State’s LIHEAP program is called the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP). As of July, more than 1.7 million benefits totaling $428 million had been authorized for New York State households through HEAP in FY23. The program provides benefits to lower the cost of heating and cooling; emergency benefits to meet households’ immediate energy needs; and financial assistance to help homeowners repair or replace inoperable or unsafe heating equipment.
Starting on November 1, 2023, households in New York City can apply for the HEAP Regular benefit online at access.nyc.gov. Households outside New York City can apply at myBenefits.ny.gov. All NYS households, whether or not in New York City, can also apply in person at their HEAP Local District Contact, or in writing by mailing a completed application to their HEAP Local District Contact. Starting January 2, 2024, households can apply for the HEAP Emergency benefit in person or by phone through their HEAP Local District Contact. There is no online option.
JOB FAIR COMING TO RESORTS WORLD: Finding a job can be very difficult in today’s economic times, that is why State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. is again hosting his large, free Job Fair this November in Ozone Park.
On Thursday, November 17, dozens of companies looking to hire new workers will be present at Resorts World Casino, located at 110-00 Rockaway Boulevard, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
It is suggested that job seekers come dressed in business attire and have plenty of copies of their resumes with them to give out to the companies on hand.
“This is one of the biggest events that I host all year, and I am always grateful to the vendors, our host, Resorts World Casino, and co-sponsor The Queens Chamber of Commerce, for assisting me in providing job opportunities for people,” Addabbo said of the job fair. “Helping individuals find work is one of the most important services I can provide as an elected official. I encourage everyone who is looking for a job to come out to the Job Fair and see what companies are hiring. Over the years, many constituents have returned to my office to let me know that they were successful in finding a job at my Job Fair; and there is no better feeling than that.”
Resorts World has a free parking lot for prospective job seekers in the lot directly across from the casino entrance, and the building is wheelchair accessible to accommodate everyone.
If there is a business that is growing and needs to find employees, a new business seeking a start-up staff or an existing company that just has not been able to find the right match for open positions, then the Senator suggests the business contact his office for a free table at the Job Fair. Addabbo has consistently been able to match job seekers and employers at this annual event for many years.
Companies, organizations, recruiters, and agencies across the Tri-State area are invited to participate in this Job Fair, free of charge. Each company who registers will have an assigned table with chairs and may request access to a power source. Job seekers will be able to walk around the event space and interact with each table.
For more information, contact Senator Addabbo’s Office at 718-738-1111.
DEED THEFT, FORECLOSURE PREVENTION: Deed Theft and Foreclosure Prevention Educational Panel and Resource Fair with New York State Attorney General Letitia James will be held on Nov. 2, 2023, 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Robert Ross Johnson Family Life Center, 172-17 Linden Boulevard in Saint Albans, NY 11434. At this event you can hear from a panel discussing the most prevalent deed theft and foreclosure issues and acquire tips on how to protect your home. Collect homeowner resources and meet representatives from premiere housing and legal organizations, that offer free help, counseling, and information to help you stay in your home. RSVP: ag.ny.gov/protect-homes.
The event is being held in conjunction with Congressmember Gregory Meeks, Senator Leroy Comrie, Assemblymember Alicia Hyndman, Assemblymember Clyde Vanel, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, Council Member Nantasha Williams, and Council Member Selvena Brooks-Powers.
Learn About:
» what to expect from foreclosure
» how to avoid scams, such as deed theft
» available grants and loans
For event questions email: [email protected].
The Homeowner Protection Program (HOPP) was developed to help homeowners protect their homes. Free HOPP services include: legal court representation, home-ownership counseling, and loan-modification help. For info call 855-466-3456 | homeownerhelpny.com.
RABIES VAX FOR RACCOONS: The Health Department and NYC Parks, along with federal partners, will be vaccinating raccoons against rabies in New York City.
“Rabies threatens raccoons, which can pose a risk to other wild mammals, humans and pets,” said Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan. “For everyone’s safety, New Yorkers should make sure their pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations. As a precaution maintain distance from wildlife, and if you see an animal you believe to be acting strangely, please call 311.”
“While coming into contact with a rabid raccoon is very rare, raccoons are residents of our city, and New Yorkers should be advised – if you see a raccoon, give them space and never approach or try to feed them. Do your part to keep raccoons healthy by placing your trash in tightly closed receptacles and don’t feed your pets outside,” said Sarah Aucoin, Chief of Education & Wildlife for NYC Parks. “We are proud to partner with the Health Department and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as we take this preventative measure to encourage healthier wildlife in our parks.”
On October 30th through early November, wildlife biologists with the USDA will distribute individual baits containing an oral rabies vaccine, using bait stations or tossing by hand, in wooded areas in Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan. This follows baiting done earlier this year in Staten Island using a helicopter.
Annually, baits are distributed by USDA and numerous state/local partners in the eastern United States, with the goal of preventing the spread of raccoon rabies to the western United States and eventually eliminate the raccoon rabies variant.
The small, brown-colored baits are fish-scented and resemble a ketchup packet which conceals a small amount of pink, liquid vaccine. Raccoons are attracted to the odor, and when raccoons chew the bait, they can become immunized, protecting them against rabies infection.
The bait itself does not harm people, but in extremely rare instances, exposure to the liquid may cause a rash. In the unlikely event someone comes in contact with the liquid, they should wash their hands with warm, soapy water, talk to their doctor and notify the NYC Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. The bait is not harmful to pets and cannot cause rabies, but can cause upset stomach and vomiting if several baits are consumed. If pets find the bait, do not try to take it away from them to avoid being bitten and exposed to the vaccine.
Rabies is a fatal but preventable viral disease. It can spread to people and pets if they are bitten by a rabid animal. In NYC, rabies is mostly found in raccoons. If a person or pet does not receive the appropriate medical care after a potential rabies exposure, the virus can cause disease in the brain, ultimately resulting in death. Rabies can be prevented by vaccinating pets, staying away from wildlife and seeking medical care after potential exposures before symptoms start.
So far in 2023, twelve animals (4 raccoons from Queens, 1 cat and 4 raccoons from Staten Island, 1 bat from Manhattan, 1 skunk from Brooklyn, and 1 skunk from the Bronx) have tested positive for rabies.
Raccoons
- Raccoons live in New York City; if you see one during the day, be cautious but not alarmed. Being out during the day does not mean it is rabid, it may just be looking for food.
- Do not feed raccoons.
- Observe raccoons from a distance.
- For more information about raccoons, visit WildlifeNYC.
To protect yourself against rabies:
- Do not touch or feed wild animals, stray dogs or cats.
- Keep garbage in tightly sealed containers.
- Stay away from any animal that is behaving aggressively.
- Stay away from any wild animal that appears ill or acts unusually friendly. Call 311 to report a sick animal.
- Animals that have attacked, or appear likely to attack, should be reported to 911.
- Do not try to separate fighting animals.
To protect your pet against rabies:
- Keep pet vaccinations up to date.
- Keep your dog leashed while outdoors.
- Do not leave your pets outdoors unattended.
- If your pet has been in contact with an animal that might be rabid, contact your veterinarian immediately and report the incident to 311.
- Feed your pets indoors.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal:
- Immediately wash the wound with lots of soap and water.
- Seek medical care from your health care provider.
- If the animal is not owned and can be captured by authorized personnel, call 311.
- If the animal is a pet, get the owner’s name, address and telephone number so the Health Department can monitor the animal.
- To report a bite, call the Animal Bite Unit (646-364-1799) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. during the week. At night or on weekends, call 212-POISONS (764-7667).
- Fo
For more information about rabies in New York City, visit www.nyc.gov/health/rabies.
For more information on the Oral Rabies Vaccine, please visit the following sites:
- New York State Department of Health:
www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/rabies/fact_sheet.htm
- United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, National Rabies Management Program: tinyurl.com/usda-rabies
AHTBCA MEETING: Astoria Homeowners, Tenants & Business Civic Association announced its next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 15th, 7:30 p.m. At Pistilli Grand Manor (45-02 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria). ** Please enter on 45th Street side entrance, right before the parking garage **
“Attention members, neighbors and friends: Please attend our next Community Meeting. Guest speakers include Borough Planner Joseph Patti of the Queens Borough Commissioner’s Office, NYC Dept. of Transportation; Deputy Chief Raymond Porteus, Executive Officer of Patrol Borough Queens North for NYPD; Deputy Inspector Kenneth Gorman, 114th Precinct Commanding Officer, NYPD.
“Please join us, and tell all your neighbors and friends. All are welcome! Teenagers and young adults are encouraged to attend. Feel free to share throughout your social media … Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. We look forward to seeing you on November 15th!” —The Astoria Homeowners, Tenants & Business Civic Association (21-20 49th St., Astoria, NY 11105; (718) 721-3690; [email protected]; www.betterastoria.com).
FUNDS FOR QPL INFRASTRUCTURE, LITERACY: New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Council Member Linda Lee, and Queens Public Library (QPL) President Dennis Walcott spoke at the Glen Oaks Branch about funding for the city’s libraries and enrichment programs, like City’s First Readers (CFR), to support the needs of communities and literacy development of children.
In the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) budget, $135 million in operating funds were allocated to QPL, including $12 million in proposed spending cuts that the Council successfully advocated to restore. The Council also allocated $7.8 million in capital dollars for QPL to fund facility expansions, infrastructure upgrades, and equipment purchases at its branches.
QPL also received $438,000 for CFR, a Council initiative to provide families with children up to five years old with early learning programs and activities to build and strengthen reading skills. In connection with CFR, the Speaker read Woo Hoo! You’re Doing Great! by Sandra Bounton with families in attendance.
“Libraries are among our most precious public resources and are critical to the well-being of our society,” said Speaker Adrienne Adams. “These resource hubs provide free programs that help children in their cognitive and social development and support immigrant communities through English-language classes. The Council is proud to allocate $438,000 to the Queens Public Library for intergenerational literacy programming in this year’s city budget. I thank Council Member Linda Lee and the Queens Public Library for their advocacy and leadership, and I look forward to continuing to support all residents, no matter their age, in their educational journeys.”
In addition to providing access to their physical and digital collections, the Queens Public Library offers early childhood programming, immigration assistance, fitness and wellness classes, college and career readiness training, digital literacy workshops and more at their branches.
“Libraries are more than just a place for residents to read their favorite book. Our libraries serve as centers for our children to learn and develop as they grow into our future leaders,” said Council Member Linda Lee, Chair of the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addictions. “I am proud to support our public libraries and to join Speaker Adrienne Adams and Queens Library President Dennis Walcott to host a Music and Movement Class that serves as a fun and interactive program to inspire our kids to pursue and achieve their dreams.”
“Speaker Adams and Council Member Lee have demonstrated time and again their profound understanding of the role libraries play in strengthening our communities, and we are thrilled they could join our toddler class at the Glen Oaks library today, witnessing first-hand the impact of our programs on children’s growth and development,” said Queens Public Library President and CEO Dennis M. Walcott. “We are deeply grateful to them for their steadfast advocacy and financial support as well as for prioritizing essential literacy initiatives, allowing us to offer free access to knowledge and opportunity for learners of all ages.”
EBT THEFT AND CLAIMS ASSISTANCE EVENT: On Wednesday, NYS Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas, in partnership with the NYC Human Resources Association (HRA), held an event at the Boys and Girls Club in Astoria to connect constituents who’ve had their public benefits stolen to HRA representatives who could help assist them in submitting claims and getting their benefits replaced. In recent years, many New Yorkers have had their public benefits, both food assistance (SNAP) and temporary cash assistance, stolen or “skimmed”, particularly in Astoria. This is why Assemblymember González-Rojas, a member of the Assembly’s Committee on Social Services, was “proud to have advocated for funding in the budget to replace stolen benefits and introduced a bill that would enable the state’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to reimburse individuals who’ve had their public benefits skimmed.”
Assembly District 34 alone has some of the highest rates of public benefits skimming. Astoria zip codes have the highest proportion of recipients who have already reported benefits theft to HRA, the agency that processes these claims. Woodside zip codes, which include NYCHA Woodside Houses, have high rates of seniors whose benefits have been stolen. The Assemblymember’s office organized a total of three in-person events, including the above event, to provide one-on-one assistance for neighbors who have had their benefits skimmed or stolen. Connect to HRA specialists who can help with claims prior to the deadline of October 31, 2023, or within thirty days from the date they discovered the theft, whichever is later.
“Ending hunger in our communities, city, and state, is something I care deeply about and will continue to fight for. To achieve this, it’s imperative that every New Yorker who receives food assistance and/or temporary cash assistance has access to the full benefit they are eligible for and receive. Thank you to HRA for partnering with our office to help guide my constituents through the claims process so they can recoup their stolen funds,” said Assemblymember González-Rojas.
“Unfortunately, fraud and theft are becoming increasingly common in our communities, and these scams often target the most vulnerable, the elderly, working families, and children. Yesterday’s EBT/SNAP skimming event was a great example of how government agencies can proactively help New Yorkers harmed by these increasingly sophisticated scams. Our office was honored to participate in this event, and we urge all constituents to reach out to us or HRA for more information on how to recover funds and how to monitor and protect your data,” said State Senator Kristen Gonzalez.
VETS CARE COORDINATOR: From: Council Member Vickie Paladino (District19) announced the following upcoming event in District 19. “If you have any questions or concerns call my office at (718) 619-8611.”
Attention NYC veterans and families. The NYC Department of Veterans Services will have a Care Coordinator on site at Councilmember Paladino’s office on Wednesday, November 8. Their DVS Care Coordinator can assist you with benefits and claims, legal assistance, housing, mental health support, financial assistance, transportation, SNAP food benefits, utility bills, employment, and funerals/burials.
For more information call the Department of Veterans Services at 212-416-5250 or visit nyc.gov/vets. Follow DVS on social media at @nycveterans.
Other Resources:
Veterans:
24/7 Confidential Veterans’ Crisis Hotline, 800-273-8255 and press 1 or dial 988.
NYC Department of Veterans’ Services Intake Specialist: 212-416-5250 or [email protected].
Financial Support – VetConnectNYC.org
District 19 Veteran Resource Center, every other Wednesday, 20-15 Francis Lewis Blvd, Whitestone, NY 11357 (Paladino’s office).
Mental Health, Disabilities, & Addictions
National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Dial 988. 988 lifeline connects individuals experiencing mental health-related distress (including addiction) to live support that will be able to identify the caller’s needs and provide services accordingly. Translation will be available in English and Spanish. Other network providers offer translations of other languages. Please note, this hotline also links to the Veterans Crisis Line.
ULifeline College Mental Health, 800-273-8255 or Text START to 741-741.
Alcoholics Anonymous, visit AA.ORG to find a meeting.
Narcotics Anonymous, visit NA.ORG to find a meeting
I AM WOMAN, HEAR ME ROAR (PART 3): NYS Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato released the following statement: “Last year, I wrote about the historic bill I had introduced, A.8537 (2022). Not only was it signed into law, but we are now celebrating the 1-year anniversary of giving women full autonomy over their post-mastectomy bodies. As it is October and Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I found it important to re-address this topic.
“In case you don’t remember, or for any new readers, this law ensures that insurance companies must pay for how a woman wants her chest to look after a mastectomy, with either a flat chest wall or full reconstructive surgery. The problem was that while many women pursue reconstructive surgeries after a full or partial mastectomy, some women pursue aesthetic flat closure, also known as ‘staying flat.’ However, this option was not covered by insurance which meant doctors had to leave flaps or pockets of skin on women’s chest, or force a woman to pay completely out of pocket for this surgery.
“That was unacceptable and last year through my legislation, New York State became the first State in the country to require insurance companies to cover both procedures after a mastectomy: reconstructive surgery or aesthetic flat closure.
“In addition to post-care, I also want to stress the importance of precautionary measures women can take to detect and hopefully prevent breast cancer. We know that early detection of this disease can lead to a much better outcome. As your state legislator, I have been working to protect women’s health for years. In 2019 I worked to pass legislation that determined that a mammogram is medically necessary which then expanded insurance coverage for annual mammograms for women 35 and older.
“About 1 in 8 U.S. women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in the course of their lifetime, and sadly we all know someone who has been impacted by breast cancer. A mammogram is the most effective screening tool to detect breast cancer in most women and there should never be a concern over whether this necessary method is covered by insurance. I’m honored to know that for women in New York there is no longer that type of barrier. As we honor the brave women, and even men who have battled breast cancer, we also celebrate these developments in resources.
“With all we have achieved, I know our work for women is not done. I am committed to helping women and everyone to the best of my ability in my capacity as your Assemblywoman. As always, do not hesitate to contact my office by email at [email protected] or by phone at 718-945-9550. As always, it is a pleasure to serve you and I look forward to representing you for many years to come.”
LIVING WELL WITH DIABETES: Senator Joseph P Addabbo, Jr. is inviting you to an exciting, interactive event that will revolutionize the way you think about your well-being is you are diabetics, pre-diabetics, and/or have a family history of diabetes.
“Are you ready to take control of your health and transform your life? Calling all diabetics…” Addabbo is hosting an interactive diabetes session, where learning meets with a fun experience. It will be held on Wednesday, November 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, located at 84-85 96th Street in Woodhaven.
November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and Senator Addabbo is looking to bring awareness to the next level. The Senator wants his constituents to embrace a healthier lifestyle and participate in an event that includes the thrill of winning free baskets overflowing with luscious, freshly grown greens.
There will be various activities designed to captivate the senses and ignite a passion for living well.
At this extraordinary event, a participant will witness a live cooking demonstration and hopefully be inspired to create diabetes-friendly meals. They will be informed of nutritional insights and receive valuable information.
Attendees will also get a farming lesson that will teach them how to cultivate their own bountiful harvest of fresh fruits and vegetables. They will be engaged in physical activities that will promote healthier living and address diabetic needs.
Senator Addabbo will welcome renowned guests who will add their unique expertise to this extraordinary event. Cornell Cooperative Extension, Queens County Farm Museum, and Catholic Health/St. Francis Hospital will join forces to create a full range of knowledge, guidance, and support.
“Our mission is to empower individuals living with diabetes, along with their devoted families and caregivers. We aim to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions about your health, while making it a fun, interactive event,” Addabbo said. “Whether you’re newly diagnosed, a seasoned warrior in the battle against diabetes, or simply curious about this prevalent condition, our Diabetes Information Session is an absolute must-attend event. Join us on this journey of learning and having a good time. Space is limited, so my constituents need to make reservations quickly.”
Due to limited seating, residents are to call Senator Addabbo’s Office at 718-738-1111 to make a reservation for the event on November 8th.
—With contributions by Annette Hanze Alberts
This column was originated by John A. Toscano