August 23 Primary Election

As reported, the NY Supreme Court postponed the congressional and State senate primary elections to Aug. 23, amid the latest court decisions around congressional and State redistricting which followed the 2020 census. A court-appointed special master approved new congressional and State senate districts in New York State on May 20. These replaced the maps previously approved by the State legislature in February 2022.

 

The CUNY Graduate Center has made available online comparative maps at the following link https://newyork.redistrictingandyou.org/ to enable voters to determine their current congressional and State legislative districts and to see how the latest redistricting maps impact them.

 

The last day to postmark an application to register to vote in the Aug. 23 primary was July 29, the last day an in-person application to register to vote in the primary can be received by the Board of Elections was July 29, the last day a mailed application to vote in the primary can be received by the Board of Elections was Aug. 3, and the change of address deadline for the primary was also Aug. 3.

 

The last day the Board of Elections can receive an absentee ballot request by application, letter, telefax, other written instrument or via absentee portal request for the primary is Aug. 8, early voting for the primary runs from Aug. 13 to Aug. 21, and the last day to apply in person for an absentee ballot for the primary is Aug. 22.

 

Election Day is Aug. 23 and polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m., the last day to postmark a primary election ballot is Aug. 23, the last day to deliver a primary ballot in person to your county board or any poll site in your county by close of polls is Aug. 23, the last day a primary election ballot can be received by the county board is Aug. 30.

 

The poll site typically used by many voters changed “due to redistricting” according to the Board of Elections ahead of the June primaries, preventing many voters from casting their ballot before the polls closed. Voters are therefore encouraged to check their designated polling site well in advance of voting in the August primary. For more information on early voting, and for a voting guide, click here.

 

For more information on the various primary races taking place in The Bronx on August Primary Election Day, click here.

 

MTA WiFi News 

The MTA is expanding its WiFi service. For more information, click here.

 

Transportation Updates 

For updates on Bronx Street and Bridge closures, subway changes, and other transportation-related updates, click here.

 

World Breastfeeding Week

The theme for this year’s World Breastfeeding Week is education & support. Click this link for additional information if you are currently breastfeeding or planning on breastfeeding: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/breastfeeding.page. (Courtesy of the Office of the Bronx Borough President).

 

Citizen Training to Reduce Overdose Deaths 

With overdose rates of 75.3 percent in Hunts Pont and Mott Haven, the City has announced new measures to train citizens on how to reduce overdose deaths. Click here for more information.

 

E-Scooter Tutorial 

Council Member Amanda Farías is holding an e-scooter tutorial and free helmet giveaway on Aug. 10, 2022. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson is hosting a Back-to-School health and Literacy Fair on Thursday, Aug. 18. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

La presidenta del condado del Bronx, Vanessa Gibson, organizará une Feria de Alfabetización y Salud para el regreso a la escuela el jueves 18 de agosto. Consulte el folleto adjunto abajo para obtenir más información.

Job Fair

Local elected officials will host a job fair on Sept. 9. See below flier for details.

 

 

Energy Conservation Notice 

The Office of the Bronx Borough President and Con Edison is asking all residents in the Southwest Bronx to conserve energy. See attached flier below for more information.

 

City Redistricting 

As reported, the New York City redistricting process is currently underway. The July 6th Bronx hearing, held at Hostos Community College, can be watched below. On Friday, July 15, the NYC Districting Commission released the first proposed draft, redrawn maps, based on community feedback collected at the hearings held to date. There is still opportunity to comment. To view the draft maps, click here and to view more information on the next hearing dates and steps in the process, click here. The commission will vote on the final maps on Sept. 22.

 

 

District 11 City Councilman Eric Dinowitz is holding an information session together with NYC Districting Commission on Aug. 10 about the latest draft maps and overall Preliminary Plan. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

Beat the Heat 

With high temperatures and humidity expected to continue for the next while, for tips on how to beat the heat, click here. For more information on public pools, click here.

It’s going to be a hot week in NYC. Take steps to stay safe & #beattheheat:

✅Keep cool and hydrated.
✅Find your nearest cooling center: call @nyc311 or visit https://t.co/9PRlDTeUgY 
✅Be a buddy and check on your neighbors.
✅Stay informed and sign up for @NotifyNYC alerts. pic.twitter.com/9MUQVnU3m9

— NYC Emergency Management Commissioner (@NYCEMCommish) July 19, 2022

Free Summer Meals

NYC Schools is providing free, summer breakfast and lunch for everyone 18 years old and younger under from June 28 to September 2 at select public schools, pools, and parks. No registration, documentation or ID is required. Find a location at: http://schools.nyc.gov/summermeals.

 

Con Edison Discounts 

According to Bronx Community Board 7, this summer, Con Edison is offering residential customers a $50 discount for buying an eligible smart thermostat, and another $85 for registering it with Con Edison’s “Bring Your Own Thermostat (BYOT)” Program. Con Edison is also offering residential customers a $1,000 rebate to weatherize their home with new air sealing and proper insulation. Click on the following links for more information.

 

Open Streets 

New York City’s Open Streets program through NYC DOT’s Public Space Programming transforms streets into public space, open to all. These transformations allow for a range of activities that promote economic development, support schools, and provide new ways for New Yorkers to enjoy cultural programming and build community. NYC DOT works with community-based organizations, public, private, and charter schools, and groups of businesses to execute Open Streets citywide. All activities are free and open to New Yorkers of all ages and abilities. For a map of open street locations, click here. See also our recent story on the revamped parklet on Jerome Avenue.

 

Avoid Getting Scammed by Robocalls 

See the below flier for tips on how to avoid robocall scams.

 

Polio Vaccine

NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) says according to their data, 13.8 percent of children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years in New York City have not been vaccinated against polio and the agency is urging parents to ensure their children get vaccinated against what they say is a highly contagious viral infection. Meanwhile, CBS News recently reported that the New York Health Department said hundreds of people may be infected with the polio virus, once regarded as being an illness that was contained.

Our new map shows polio vaccination rates for NYC children 6 months to 5 years old. According to our data, 13.8% have not been vaccinated against polio. Polio is highly contagious. The most important way to prevent polio is by getting vaccinated: https://t.co/HVfYyj35LN pic.twitter.com/JSe4pK9G90

— nychealthy (@nycHealthy) August 5, 2022

Abortion Services in New York 

New York Attorney General Letitia James is reminding New Yorkers that abortion services remain legal in New York for those who seek them. A free legal hotline is available for information and legal guidance on accessing safe abortion services in the State. Call (212) 899-5567 for more details.

 

Local People Reported Missing in Recent Weeks 

A 13-year-old girl was reported missing in Fordham Manor. Click here for more details.

A 60-year-old man was reported missing in Fordham Manor. Click here for more details.

A 16-year-old girl was reported missing in Wakefield. Click here for more details.

A 27-year-old man was reported missing in Van Nest. Click here for more details.

A 74-year-old man was reported missing in Fordham Heights. Click here for more details.

 

 

Back to School

Two “Back to School” celebrations and community resource fairs are being organized by State Sen. Gustavo Rivera (S.D. 33) on Aug. 12 at Boston Road and Bronx Park East, and on Aug. 18 at Jerome Ave and 192nd Street.

 

 

2022 Community Needs Assessment 

Do you have ideas about what your local community needs? Take a few minutes and fill out a survey to help inform how future funding is spent across the city. Visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2022CNANYC today. See below flier for more information. Norwood News recently published an Inquiring Photographer feature on where would be the best location for a new public swimming pool in Bedford Park / Norwood. Some residents had also raised the need for a YMCA in the Northwest Bronx, an east-west subway service, and platform seats in all Bronx subway stations.

 

 

Monkey Pox Outbreak Update

As reported, NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) said that as of Aug. 5, 1,558 people in New York City had tested positive for monkeypox. Officials emphasize that anyone could get and spread monkeypox, and added that the current cases are primarily spreading among social networks of gay, bisexual, and other men who have multiple sexual partners, and therefore this community subset is currently at greater risk of exposure. They said if you have a new or unexpected rash or other symptoms of monkeypox, contact a health care provider.

 

 

A two-dose vaccination is available for those who are eligible, but supplies are scarce, as reported, and appointments are necessary. Health officials recommend signing up for at least one-dose for those who are eligible. Mass vaccination sites are available at Bronx High School of Science, 75, W 205^th Street, and at Lincoln Hospital, 234 E 149^th Street. Book an appointment by calling 877-VAX-4NYC or 877-829-4692. For more details on vaccine eligibility and more, visit: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/health/health-topics/monkeypox.page. Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson is hosting a townhall on Monkeypox on Monday, Aug. 18. See attached flier below for details.

 

As reported, cases have risen sharply in recent weeks, with 30 percent of U.S. cases recorded in New York City, per the CDC. The WHO declared the monkeypox outbreak a global emergency on Saturday, July 23. The White House declared it a public health emergency on Aug. 4. On the same day, Mayor Eric Adams said he was grateful for the announcement but urged the Biden administration to invoke the Defense Production Act to fully meet the needs of the crisis in terms of needed vaccines. For more information on the latest vaccination efforts and more, click here.

 

Norwood News Hiatus 

Norwood News is usually on hiatus for a few weeks in August. However, due to the second Primary Election Day falling on Aug. 23, we will continue to publish throughout August, and our last print edition will be on Aug. 25. The next print edition after that will be on Sept. 22.

 

Norwood News partnership with WNYC

Ahead of the November mid-terms elections, Norwood News is partnering with WNYC Public Radio as part of a larger effort to amplify the voices of voters in communities throughout the city. See attached flier below for more details on how to get involved. Thank you.

 

Cameroonians Living in the U.S. May be Eligible for TPS 

 

Subway D Line Updates 

The MTA has advised of structural repairs taking place on the Concourse D line until 2023. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

COVID-19 UPDATES 

The City of New York runs a COVID-19 hotline. Through this hotline, you can call and get all of your COVID-19 updates, including testing sites, advice from medical staff, quarantine information and mental health support. Call 212-COVID19 or (212) 268-4319.

 

On July 12, another new, free 24/7 hotline was launched in New York for those who test positive for COVID-19 but don’t have a health care provider. The hotline, 888-TREAT-NY, was launched by the New York State Department of Health after reaching an agreement to utilize the Virtual ExpressCare platform operated by NYC Health + Hospitals. The ExpressCare platform is a service that allows New Yorkers to receive virtual care from a NYC Health + Hospitals provider.   

 

The telemedicine visit will include a clinical assessment by medical providers who will identify the appropriate COVID-19 treatment plan, which may include a prescription for Paxlovid or Molnupiravir, oral antiviral medications proven to decrease hospitalization for those that are at risk for severe disease. When given soon after a positive COVID-19 diagnosis, these antivirals also help fight infection and shorten recovery time.    

 

As all treatments require a prescription, those who test positive for COVID-19 should talk to their provider or call 888-TREAT-NY to determine what treatment is best for them. New York State is assigned a weekly allotment of both Paxlovid and Molnupiravir from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.  Under the agreement, insured patients will pay a co-pay amount based on their plan and the New York State Department of Health will cover the costs of the service for those without health care coverage.  

   

Multiple COVID-19 treatments are available for people ages 12 and older, and can be delivered to New Yorkers’ homes for free. For more information on COVID-19 treatments, call 212-COVID19 and press 9 or visit DOHMH’s COVID-19 treatments website.

 

As reported, New York City launched the mobile-based Test to Treat Corps clinics on June 30. Free COVID-19 testing and anti-viral pills are available at Test & Treat sites around the city. These mobile testing units, managed by NYC Test & Trace Corps, provide no-cost instant access to antiviral medication (Paxolvid) for eligible New Yorkers who test positive at the sites. Treatment can prevent severe illness and in many cases hospitalization. The medication is in pill form and prescribed by a healthcare provider. Each site is equipped with a clinician who can screen and prescribe Paxolvid for anyone who tests positive on a rapid test at the site. To check for the Bronx mobile Test & Treat locations, click here.

 

Additionally, you can pick-up free at-home test kits at any of the participating sites. To find a testing or at-home kit pickup site near you, visit nyc.gov/covidtest or call 311.

Throughout the city, 14 landmark cultural sites and 27 branches of @nypl, @QPLNYC and @BKLYNlibrary are distributing at-home #COVID19 tests to New Yorkers for free. Hours and locations: https://t.co/MB8E5PEzmU pic.twitter.com/rX2qwhOX0z

— City of New York (@nycgov) April 7, 2022

 

Other Rapid At-Home Kit Local Pick-Up Sites 

Bronx Library Center
310 East Kingsbridge Road
Bronx, NY 10458
Dates: June 6 – 10
Monday – Friday, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Tests can be used on people 2 years and older.

Jerome Park Library
118 Eames Place
Bronx, NY 10468
Dates: June 6 – 10
Monday – Friday, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Tests can be used on people 2 years and older.

Kingsbridge Library
291 West 231st Street
Bronx, NY 10463
Dates: June 6 – 10
Monday – Friday, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Tests can be used on people 2 years and older.

Mosholu Library
285 East 205th Street
Bronx, NY 10467
Dates: June 6 – 10
Monday – Friday, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Tests can be used on people 2 years and older.

Van Cortlandt Library
3882 Cannon Place
Bronx, NY 10463
Dates: June 6 – 10
Monday – Friday, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Tests can be used on people 2 years and older.

 

On May 25, the NYC Test & Treat Corps announced it had expanded its COVID-19 Quarantine and Isolation Guidance Tool, which provides New Yorkers direct access to order care packages to help isolate safely. In addition to the resource portal, the quarantine and isolation guidance tool offers personalized guidance to New Yorkers who are exposed to, tested positive for, or have symptoms consistent with COVID-19. For more information, go to https://covid19.nychealthandhospitals.org/COVID19help or call the NYC Test & Trace Corps COVID Hotline at 212-COVID19.

 

Long COVID Resources

If you believe you may have Long COVID, resources are available, including Test & Treat’s AfterCare program and NYC Health + Hospitals Centers of Excellence. Long COVID is a wide range of new, returning, or ongoing health conditions people can experience four or more weeks after contracting COVID-19. Long COVID symptoms vary from person to person and may be present for different lengths of time and can include: fatigue, chest pain, shortness of breath, muscle weakness, anxiety, or depression. To be connected with an AfterCare Navigator or an NYC Health + Hospitals Center of Excellence, call 212-COVID19 and select 4. You can also use the AfterCare survey to find a list of health and social needs resources specific to you.

 

Dominant Variant

The Omicron BA.2.12.1 and BA.5 variants are now the dominant coronavirus strains in the U.S. since early July, according to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC). The Omicron variant comprises several lineages and sub-lineages, including BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.4 and BA.5.

 

COVID-19 Case Trends

As of Aug 5, citywide COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths have decreased since mid-July, according to data from NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH).

 

The citywide 7-day average positive percentage rate was 14 percent as of Aug 5, down from the 15.2 percent rate recorded in mid-July. As of Aug 5, the 7-day percentage positive rate in ZIP code 10468, covering Fordham / Kingsbridge / University Heights was 14.07 percent, (down from 16.55 percent as of mid-July), according to DOHMH.

 

In ZIP code 10467, covering Allerton / Norwood / Pelham Parkway / Williamsbridge, it was 17.4 percent (down from 18 percent as of mid-July). In ZIP code 10458, covering Belmont / Fordham University / Kingsbridge, it was 15.07 percent (down from 16.5 percent as of mid-July). Meanwhile, in ZIP codes 10453, covering Morris Heights / Mount Hope / University Heights, it was the among the highest in the borough, at 19.98 percent.

 

COVID-19 Prevention

NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) say vaccinations, masking, hand-washing, and testing remain the most important tools in fighting infection. CDC mask guidance can be checked here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html. In New York State, masks are still required in healthcare facilities, nursing homes, correction facilities, domestic violence shelters, and on public transit.

 

DOHMH officials say at-home testing kits are available to all New Yorkers to allow people to stay at home if sick, and a telemedicine service has been implemented to ascertain whether New Yorkers who contract the new variant need access to life-saving COVID-19 medication. New Yorkers who test positive for COVID-19 can receive COVID-19 treatments that help prevent severe disease and hospitalization. DOHMH officials said if they do need such treatment, it will be delivered same day to their homes, curtailing the spread of the virus and keeping the City open.

 

If you feel ill, tested positive for COVID-19, or were exposed to someone with COVID-19, a new online tool by NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) can help you determine whether you should quarantine or isolate and for how long. Visit: https://on.nyc.gov/3cHqPbs.

 

Vaccination Updates  

NYS Department of Health (DOH) officials say all eligible New Yorkers, 6 months and older should get vaccinated and get their booster dose when eligible. The U.S. Department of Food & Drug Administration (FDA) fact sheets for recipients and caregivers on each vaccine are available here: Pfizer-BioNTech/Cominarty; Moderna; Johnson & Johnson. The FDA approved the Novavax COVID-19 vaccine in July.

 

On June 22, the Adams administration announced that New Yorkers aged 6-months and older can now get the COVID-19 vaccine. Visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine for more information.

 

Facts About the COVID-19 Vaccines 

A virtual town hall to combat COVID-19 vaccine misinformation was held by Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz (A.D. 81) on Thursday, Sept. 23, It can be watched here. Get the facts about the COVID-19 vaccines at these sites:

https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-vaccine-facts.page

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/facts.html

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/about-covid-19/caring-for-children/families.html

 

A presentation on kids and COVID vaccines courtesy of the American Medical Association. Video via YouTube

COVID vaccines are widely available at pharmacies, local health departments, clinics, Federally Qualified Health Centers and other locations across the state, irrespective of immigration status. To schedule an appointment directly at a New York State-run site, go to New York State’s vaccine scheduler and follow the instructions. Walk-in appointments are also accepted at New York State mass vaccination sites for all eligible individuals.

 

At Home Vaccinations 

The City has expanded its at-home vaccination program to all New Yorkers aged 12+. You can select which of the vaccines you prefer at no cost. To request your in-home vaccination visit https://forms.cityofnewyork.us/f/home. You can also sign up online for an at-home vaccination or by calling 877-VAX-4NYC (877-829-4692).

 

Children with Developmental Disabilities & COVID-19 Vaccines 

On Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021, Dr. Lisa H. Shulman, neurodevelopmental pediatrician and interim director of Rose F. Kennedy CERC at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, gave a virtual talk about COVID-19 vaccines for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. The event can be watched on YouTube (link below).

 

 

Travel Requirements  

All travelers, domestic and international, should continue to follow all CDC travel requirements.

 

Open Enrollment for NYS Health Insurance

The NY State of Health Open Enrollment Period for coverage in a 2022 Qualified Health Plan has been extended indefinitely for the duration of the pandemic, as confirmed on Friday, Jan. 14, by New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Enrollment in Medicaid, Child Health Plus and the Essential Plan is available. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health, at https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/ or directly through insurers. If you need help choosing a plan, talk to a registration advisor for free. Call 311, text the word “SafeNYC” to 877-877 or visit https://on.nyc.gov/3hEl8JI.

 

NYCHA-CUNY Resident Scholarship Applications Open 

The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) & City University of New York (CUNY) resident scholarship is now open for applications. General eligibility requirements include:

Authorized NYCHA Residency or Section 8 resident
A minimum of 24 credits at the time of application
A minimum 3.0 GPA
Currently enrolled undergraduate, full-time student at any CUNY community or senior college
Applications and specific eligibility requirements are available at the Opportunity NYCHA website

The scholarships represent one of the ways that CUNY and New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) partner to support the academic achievements of public housing residents who attend The City University of New York. All scholarships are made possible with the generous support of public and private partners. In addition, if a resident has applied for one of these scholarships in the past, and still meet the eligibility criteria, both NYCHA and CUNY encourage that person to apply again. Contact scholarships@nycha.nyc.gov for more information.
To apply, go to: on.nyc.gov/nycha-cuny.

Waste Management Plan

The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) now requires owners and developers of new large residential buildings to submit a Waste Management Plan. This requirement is found in a new rule effective April 1, 2022. Visit nyc.gov/wastemanagementplan to learn more and submit your plan.

 

First Step Training Course 

Running from July 11 through Aug. 19, 2022, “First Step” is a 6-week virtual job training program run by Coalition for the Homeless for women interested in human services employment.

 

 

Free Haircuts

SUNY Bronx Educational Opportunity Center is offering free haircuts by appointment. Taking place Mondays through Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Bronxites can call the following number if interested: 718-530-7043. The haircuts will take place at the following location: SUNY Bronx EOC, 1666 Bathgate Avenue, Bronx, NY 10457. Vaccination or a negative test within three days is required to receive a haircut.

 

Free Parenting and Prenatal Classes

The Parenting Resource Center at Catholic Guardian Services, located at 3356 Fort Independence St., Bronx, NY 10463, is providing free, parenting, and prenatal classes for new and expecting parents. Classes will be held in person and will be taught in English and Spanish. Parents that complete the classes will be given a free crib. The four classes will be on breastfeeding, stress or trauma, safe sleep, and women’s health. To sign up, contact Marie at (718) 828-0300 Ext. 209.

 

 

Legionnaires’ Disease Cluster in The Bronx 

The City’s health department announced on June 17 that the investigation into the Highbridge community cluster of Legionnaires’ disease has been closed, as reported. “No new cases of Legionnaires’ disease have been identified in residents of the area with symptom onset in the last four weeks,” health officials said. There were 30 cases of Legionnaires’ disease associated with the cluster. Twenty-eight people were hospitalized, 24 have been discharged, and two New Yorkers died.

 

 

Notice from NYCHA / Con Ed re People Who Use Life-Support Equipment 

New York City Housing Authority ae advising residents that if they use life-support equipment or if someone in their household does, it’s important to let Con Edison know. Con Edison keeps a record of such individuals to contact them in case of emergency and make sure they are safe. Call 1-877-58-CONED (1-877-582-6633) or visit https://on.nyc.gov/3tScCuR to complete the online form. Please have your 15-digit account number available when you call. Life-support equipment conditions require certification that must be updated annually.

NYC Care

NYC Care is a health care access program that guarantees low-cost and no-cost services to New Yorkers who do not qualify for or cannot afford health insurance. All NYC Care services are provided through NYC Health + Hospitals. With NYC Care, residents can get a unique membership card to access health services, choose their own doctor, and get affordable medications. Immigrants no longer have to live in NYC for six months to be eligible for NYC Care. Click on the link in the below tweet to learn how to enroll.

 

Immigrants no longer have to live in NYC for six months to be eligible for #NYCCare! 🎉 It’s now easier than ever to enroll! Learn more about the @NYCHealthSystem program that guarantees care for all New Yorkers: https://t.co/feRboHd8y0 pic.twitter.com/TDLGVjgzx3

— NYC Mayor's Public Engagement Unit (@MayorsPEU) June 22, 2022

 

Help from Social Security 

 

SNAP App

NYC Human Resources Administration and NYC Department of Social Services are advising New Yorkers that SNAP benefits and Cash Assistance can be managed via the HRA app. See the link in the below Tweet for more information.

Need SNAP? Get the app.
To apply for and manage your SNAP benefits and Cash Assistance, use the ACCESS HRA app. Learn more: https://t.co/stpJyqx6mE

— HRA (@NYCHRA) May 10, 2022

Cannabis Dispensary Operations

Click here for a list of frequently asked questions and answers regarding medical cannabis dispensary operations, provided by PharmaCann in relation to Verilife’s relocation to 25-27 West Fordham Road, Bronx NY 10468. According to its website, PharmaCann [https://www.pharmacann.com/] is one of the country’s “largest vertically integrated cannabis companies, providing safe, reliable, top-quality cannabis products.” For more information about Verilife Bronx, NY, go to https://www.verilife.com/ny/location/bronx. A Bronx Cannabis Forum was recently held in the borough. For more information on what was discussed, click here. For other recent Cannabis-related news in The Bronx, click here.

 

United States Suicide Prevention Hotline 

A National Suicide Prevention hotline is available effective July 1, as confirmed by Assembly Member Nathalie Fernandez (A.D. 80). Call 988 for help.

Taking effect in July, 2022, the United States Suicide Prevention Hotline can be called by dialing 988.

#988 pic.twitter.com/TJm7P9C4NI

— Nathalia Fernández (@Fernandez4NY) June 30, 2022

Trash Bags for FOMP

Friends of Mosholu Parkland (FOMP) said last year, the group received a great donation for the purchase of green compostable 30-gallon trash bags. This year, the group is half-way through the summer youth program and they need the same trash bags for litter patrol. Elizabeth Quaranta from FOMP said if anyone can donate $50, it will cover the 250 trash bags needed, and she provided this link. Contact mosholuparkland@gmail.com for more information.

 

NYC Well

NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene provides a confidential mental health and substance use support 24/7 via their NYC Well service. See the following Tweet for more information.

Are you experiencing stress, depression or anxiety or having problems with drug use? #NYCWell can help. Get free, confidential mental health and substance use support, 24/7:

☎️ Talk: 888-NYC-Well
📱 Text “WELL” to 65173
💬 Chat: https://t.co/z9vMCu4hxI pic.twitter.com/OMCm8XWYkk

— nychealthy (@nycHealthy) April 8, 2022

 

Free Legal Help with Domestic Violence 

The Urban Justice Center’s Domestic Violence Project provides free legal help with domestic violence-related matters on the last Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in conjunction with District 12 City Councilman Kevin Riley. See attached flier below for more information. (If you are in immediate danger, if you can, call 911.)

 

 

Free Legal Advice

An event offering Free Legal Services to residents which was scheduled to take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Aug. 8 at 4331 White Plains Road, hosted by District 11 Councilman Eric Dinowitz, was postponed. New date to be announced.

 

Suicide Awareness Seminar with The Suicide Network  

 

Youth Run Farmstand

A Youth Run Farmstand will be held from July 6 to October 26, at Gale Place and Orloff Avenue in Van Cortlandt Village. See attached flier below for more information.

 

Co-Op City Apartments Application Period Open 

Riverbay Corporation is now accepting applications for apartments at Co-op City. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

Affordable Housing Lotteries 

An affordable housing lottery launched for units at Williamsbridge Gardens in Williamsbridge. The deadline to apply is Aug. 18, 2022. For more information, click here.

An affordable housing lottery launched for units at 6327 Broadway in North Riverdale. The deadline to apply is Sept. 8, 2022. For more information, click here.

An affordable housing lottery launched for units 2241 White Plains Road a/k/a 683 Thwaites Place, in the Allerton section of The Bronx. The deadline to apply is Sept. 10, 2022. For more information, click here.

 

Cash Assistance from Bronxworks 

New York City Civic Engagement Commission is seeking an advisor for community boards. For more information, click here.

 

The New York State Department of Labor announced on April 29, that the joint apprenticeship and training committee for New York City District Council of Carpenters will conduct a recruitment campaign from June 1, 2022 through May 3, 2023 for 25 carpenter apprentices. For more information, click here.

 

District Council 9, a chapter of the International Painters & Allied Trades Union, announced on Tuesday, Aug. 2, that it will conduct three formal apprentice recruitment drives beginning Aug. 9. The recruitment for Drywall Finisher apprentices will take place from Aug. 9 to 22, and will include the New York City and Long Island regions. The recruitment for Painter, Decorator and Paperhanger apprentices will take place from Aug. 16 to 29, and will include the New York City, Long Island, and Westchester regions. The recruitment for Structural Steel and Bridge Painter Apprentices will take place from Aug. 29 to Sept. 12, and will include the New York City, Long Island, and Hudson Valley regions. All three recruitment drives are being conducted at the union’s training center based in Long Island City in Queens. Click here for more information.

 

Become a Paralegal 

A career as a paralegal (also known as a legal assistant) can be a wonderfully fulfilling profession. Paralegals perform legal­, regulatory­ and business­-related research for lawyers working at their organization. Most of the time paralegals work for law offices, corporations’ legal departments, or courts. These professionals also provide legal support services to attorneys. They assist lawyers in filing materials such as motions, memoranda, pleadings and briefs in various court systems, as well as accompany lawyers to see clients and/or to go to court. Ready to take the leap? A new course begins Aug. 10, 2022 at 6 p.m. and applicants can obtain their certificate in one year for $550. For more information, contact Chamber Coalition, 26 Court Street, Suite 701, Brooklyn, NY 11242. Phone 1-718-722-9217 or email info@freeparalegal.org.

 

Social Security Online Services 

The Social Security Administration (SSA) has advised it now has a one-stop shop solution allowing customers to complete their Social Security business remotely, rather than visiting a Social Security office. Hundreds of partners across the country are reportedly now using the Social Security Express Icon, including libraries, retirement communities, homeless shelters, job training facilities, prisons, doctor’s offices, veterans’ facilities, motor vehicle administrations, health and human service offices and many more. Customers are being encouraged to avail of SSA’s “flexible, easy and time-saving solution to conduct their Social Security business in one place.” To learn more and get the Social Security Express icon on your public access computers and websites, click here.

 

 

Alternate Side Parking (ASP) Update

I’Raise Girls & Boys International Center for Research and Development Survey

I’Raise Girls & Boys International Center for Research and Development wants to observe data related to demographics, experiences with the healthcare system, views of the medical industry, and the information used to make decisions. Your participation in this study helps us understand how we can better serve Latinx and Black individuals in our community.

 Complete our research survey this month and you could win a gift card!
 Go to iraiseinc.org/post/vaccineperception
 To participate, you must be 18+ years of age and live in New York City

 

 

Whether you are vaccinated or unvaccinated, you are encouraged to participate. I’RAISE Center for Research and Development focuses on identifying the needs of vulnerable youth of color and their families in the areas of research, training, and service. I’RAISE promotes the use of evidence-based practices for vulnerable youth of color and equips staff and non-profit leaders and executives in New York State to address the needs of this vulnerable group. Meet the research team! iraiseinc.org/research.

Exercise Classes in Cantonese 

Visiting Nurses Services NY is inviting the public to virtual, exercise classes in Cantonese on Tuesdays, from 2.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

LISC NYC Developers of Color Training Programs 

LISC NYC is partnering with Infinite Horizons and other partners to provide a Developers of Color Training Program aimed at expanding the capacity of minority-owned business enterprise developers. Click on the link in the tweet below to learn more.

 

Through the Developers of Color Training Program we're excited to partner with Infinite Horizons and other partners on a platform aimed at expanding the capacity of minority-owned business enterprise developers. Check out this video to learn more. https://t.co/foMOLupiWU pic.twitter.com/hTaV6PjxiO

— LISC NYC (@LISC_NYC) January 15, 2022

DOB Virtual Sessions

The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) is hosting live, bi-weekly, online Q&A sessions for property owners, registered design professionals, filing representatives and other licensees/registrants, providing a space for attendees to ask job specific questions for filings in DOB NOW, the Buildings Information System (BIS), or general questions about permits, construction codes, zoning regulations, sign-offs, certificates of occupancy, places of assembly, equipment installations, violations and civil penalties, etc. For more information on the July 21 event, go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dob-bronx-borough-qa-session-tickets-311826620817?aff=erelexpmlt.

 

Make Compost, Not Trash!

New York City Department of Sanitation is encouraging New Yorkers to make compost, not trash, by using their buildings’ brown bins to deposit food scraps. For more information, see attached flier.

 

 

Eviction Moratorium 

Gov. Kathy Hochul’s moratorium on COVID-19-related residential and commercial evictions expired on Jan. 15, 2022. For more information on how to get help, EvictionFreeNY.org is a free tool put together by JustFix and Right to Counsel.

 

It is illegal for someone to pressure or force you to leave your home. Do not self-evict! Call 311 and ask for the Tenant Helpline to get free legal advice, including information on how to complete the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) application. pic.twitter.com/OknxH0kACN

— NYC Mayor's Office to Protect Tenants (@NYCMOPT) March 10, 2022

 

As of Jan. 24, delivery workers now have new rights:

1. Apps must tell you how much the customer tips for each delivery.
2. Apps must tell you your total pay and tips for the previous day.
3. You may have better access to restaurant bathrooms when you pick up orders.

Go to: http://on.nyc.gov/33BL6el for more information.

 

Qualifying disabilities include receiving medicare benefits for any reason other than age, serious mental illness and receiving supplemental security income, blindness, deafness or hearing loss, ambulatory disability, cognitive disability, or other physical disabilities. You can submit an application online, by mail, or in person. See how to apply.

 

Landlord Rental Assistance Program 

Effective Thursday, Oct. 7, 2021, applications are being accepted for the Landlord Rental Assistance Program (LRAP) which provides rental assistance for landlords whose tenants are unwilling to apply for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP), including where the tenant has left the rental property. Assistance may be provided for households with rent up to 150 percent of the Fair Market rent (FMR) for the county where the property is located. Apply for the LRAP online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. IMPORTANT NOTE: Landlords are encouraged to gather all the information needed before starting an application including proof of ownership and rental amounts, as documentation must be uploaded at the time of application in order to complete and submit the application.

 

Become a New York City Lifeguard

NYC Parks is recruiting for New York City lifeguards. See attached flyer above for details.

 

 

NYS Emergency Rental Assistance Program Alert

The New York State Emergency Rental Assistance Program currently has no funds available. However, tenants are encouraged to apply ERAP to get certain tenant protections that could prevent a landlord from taking action by evicting tenants. See attached flier below for more information or go to: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/emergency-rental-assistance/ for more information.

As of April 28, the 2022-23 State budget includes additional funds to support the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Prior to the addition of these funds, New York State Office of Temporary Disability Assistance (OTDA) anticipated funding applications submitted through October 7, 2021. As a result of the additional funding, OTDA is processing eligible ERAP applications submitted through March 31, 2022.

Currently, applications submitted through December 31, 2021, are under active review and processing, to be followed in the coming months by applications submitted from January 1 through March 31, 2022. OTDA will update its website on ERAP if additional funding becomes available to pay eligible applications submitted after March 31, 2022.

 

 

DDC Anywhere

DDC Anywhere is a central resource for providing information and tools that helps DDC engage with the communities and agencies it serves. Through DDC Anywhere, the agency can collaborate with sponsor agencies and partner companies that share in the design, construction and renovation of civic facilities and surrounding infrastructure. Visit https://ddcanywhere.gov for more information. Contact businessdevelopment@ddc.nyc.gov with any questions.

Discover what projects we're working on in your neighborhood with this interactive map 🔎 https://t.co/WDwtPf44gl pic.twitter.com/Uklvzpd9sh

— NYC DDC (@NYCDDC) April 1, 2022

 

Fire Safety Awareness 

As reported, NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reminds New Yorkers that sprinkler caps are allowed, can be attached to fire hydrants, and are available from FDNY. However, opening a fire hydrant at full throttle is ILLEGAL and can create a fire hazard if there is a fire in the area, and the fire hydrant is subsequently found to be empty.

 

Fire hydrant spray caps installed by @FDNY are a fun way to #BeatTheHeat. Request it at your local firehouse: You must be 18, show ID, & fill out a short form. Opening hydrants yourself depletes water pressure, making it hard for firefighters to fight fires. Stay safe, stay cool! pic.twitter.com/hO07ctOJHP

— GreeNYC (@greenyc) June 30, 2022

 

 

Community Meetings

Bronx Community Board 7 is currently on hiatus for the summer. Meetings will resume in September. The elections for next year’s board and committees will be held in September. Contact kcabreracarrera@cb.nyc.gov to be added to the distribution list for upcoming meetings.

 

The 52nd Precinct Community Council meetings are usually held on the third Thursday of each month at 6 p.m., sometimes virtually and sometimes in person. Call the 52nd Precinct Community Affairs office at 718-220-5824 to be added to the email list. The NYPD’s 52nd Precinct is divided into a number of sectors. Find your sector by entering your address in the map here. The precinct also holds regular Build the Block community meetings and invites feedback from residents to discuss issues of common concern.

 

Bedford Mosholu Community Association meetings are usually held on the first Wednesday of each month at 8 p.m. The group usually takes a summer hiatus. The next meeting will be held on on Sept. 7. For further details, contact bedfordmosholu@verizon.net.

 

Win Free Yankee Tickets Through Community Service 

Win free Yankees tickets by helping to clean up the community. See attached flier below for more information.

 

 

Bronx Residents Have $353,393,103 in Unclaimed Funds

New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced last year that Bronx residents have $353,393,103.00 in unclaimed funds, waiting to be paid. In 2022, New York State returned $208,316,341 so far to New Yorkers. For more information about this topic, and how to check if you are owed unclaimed funds, click here.

 

Resource Fair

State Sen. Jamaal Bailey, Council Member Kevin Riley and various partners will host a Resource Fair on Thursday, Aug. 11, at noon. See attached flier above for more information.

 

 

Following the 2020 census, the New York State Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC) held a number of virtual sessions with community residents to discuss the redistricting process over a matter of months. The IRC held a final Bronx County hearing on its proposed redrawn maps for the assembly, State senate, and congressional districts on Nov. 9, 2021. That hearing can be watched here. The maps/plans were submitted by the commission to the State legislature on Jan. 3, 2022.

 

The State legislature voted on the first set of plans, rejecting it, and could not agree on a second set. Instead, elected representatives voted to approve alternate maps proposed by the Democratic Party, and these were ultimately approved on Feb. 2 by the State legislature, which holds a Democratic majority, and signed off by Gov. Kathy Hochul on Feb. 3, as reported.

 

The NYS Republican Party immediately mounted a legal challenge, and a judge later overruled the February vote by the State legislature as being unconstitutional, saying the February maps were gerrymandered by Democrats. The court ordered new maps to be redrawn. Lawmakers had until April 11 to submit new maps, but on Monday, April 4, a judge issued a stay on the case, which retained the prevailing February maps in place, allowing candidates time to collect the required number of voter signatures needed to get on the ballot for the June Primaries before the deadline.

 

As reported, on April 27, the New York Court of Appeals struck down the congressional and State senate redistricting maps approved by the State legislature in February, and a court-appointed special master was required to come up with new maps by May 20. The court also ordered that the 2022 congressional and State primary elections be postponed to August 23. The new maps by the special master are now available and can be viewed here. The will become effective on Jan. 1, 2023.

 

On June 10, a separate legal challenge resulted in the courts also overturning the redrawn maps for the State assembly districts which had been approved by the State legislature in early February 2022. However, unlike the congressional and State senate races, the court ruled that the June 28 primaries would go ahead based on the State Assembly district maps approved by the State legislature in early February 2022. The same maps will remain in place for the November 2022 general elections for the State assembly races. The State Assembly districts will later be redrawn by a court appointed special master ahead of the 2024 primaries.

 

P-EBT For Summer 2022

All NYC public school students who are enrolled in school during the month of June 2022 are eligible for a P-EBT payment of $375. See attached flier above for more information.

 

 

Obtaining a High School Equivalency and / or Commercial Driver’s License (free or loan-free)

Summer Job Fair

A Summer Job Fair is taking place on August 17, hosted by Bronx Community Board 7, Camba Housing Ventures and Bolivar. See attached flier above for more details.

 

 

VetConnectPro has tools to help #veterans land a great job & launch a career, including:
– military skills translator
– a dashboard w/ NYC gov job postings
– info on civil service exams
– recommended online job training

Create or upload your resume today: https://t.co/xS9E7ZbR7K pic.twitter.com/DNpYbdsqI4

— NYC Department of Veterans' Services (@nycveterans) November 11, 2021

 

Free Transportation for Seniors and People with Disabilities 

Free transportation is available with NYC Department of the Aging for seniors and people with disabilities living in certain community districts in the Bronx. See attached flyer for more information.

 

 

Price Gouging

Price gouging is illegal. Bronxites can report sudden and unexpected increases in consumer goods by calling the consumer hotline toll free at 800-697-1220. This line is available seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. for consumers. For more information on this topic, click here.

 

Curbside Parking 

There will be restrictions to curbside parking and sidewalk access for certain community districts from Oct. 4, 2021 until Summer 2023, at certain times. See attached flyer below for more details.

 

 

Black Entrepreneurs NYC (BE NYC)

Black entrepreneurs face enormous barriers and are vastly underrepresented among New York City’s business owners. While the Black community currently makes up 22% of New York City’s population (1.9 million), just 3.5% of NYC businesses are owned by Black entrepreneurs. There is tremendous potential for more Black-owned businesses to start and grow. In September 2019, in partnership with community members, organizations, advocates, and leaders, Black Entrepreneurs NYC (BE NYC), was launched to help create equity of opportunity by advancing Black entrepreneurship. More information is available here.

 

Bronx Bus Redesign Restarting.

As reported, the Bronx bus redesign plan was initiated in 2019 by New York City Transit (an agency of the MTA) and the final plan was made available here: https://new.mta.info/bronxbusredesign, while the final plan addendum (published in November 2021) was made available here. Comments from the public were submitted here: https://mta-nyc.custhelp.com/app/comments_bronxbus. On December 15, 2021, the MTA Board of Directors adopted the Bronx Local Bus Network Redesign Final Plan. The staff summary and Board proceedings are available for review by clicking on the hyperlinks provided. Earlier this year, preparations got underway to roll out the borough-wide plan, as reported. On Tuesday, June 21, the MTA formally announced the go-live date of June 26 during a press conference held at Fordham Plaza.

 

 

Reconstruction Project in Norwood & Woodlawn Heights Fall 2022

NYC Department of Design & Construction (DDC) has shared a notice regarding replacement of trunk and distribution water mains and the rehabilitation of sewers in Norwood and Woodlawn Heights during fall 2022. See attached newsletter below for more details.

 

 

 

 

The NYC Department of Design & Construction has announced that there will be a temporary rerouting of the northbound Bx16, Bx34 and BxM4 buses from Gun Hill Road to Jerome Avenue, 24/7 until Nov. 2, 2022. See below flier.

 

 

The NYC Department of Design & Construction has announced that there will be a temporary closure of the westbound Bx10 bus stop on East Gun Hill Road at Bainbridge Avenue, 24/7 until Nov. 2, 2022. See below flier.

 

The NYC Department of Design & Construction has announced that there will be a temporary reroute of the southbound Bx16, Bx34 and BxM4 buses from Gun Hill Road to 210th, 24/7 until Nov. 2, 2022. See below flier.

 

 

Free Training from NYC Department of Small Business Services

The NYC Department of Small Business Services is providing no-cost, online training to help business owners and employees in NYC. Click here for more information: http:// nyc.gov/trainingemployees. In addition and as reported, during National Small Business Week 2022, Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner Kevin D. Kim also encouraged small businesses to avail of a range of other supports available to New York City small businesses. Click here for more information.

 

New Urgent Care Opening 

A Bronx County Medical Society physician opened a New Urgent Care across the street from Montefiore Hospital at 161 East Gun Hill Road on Wednesday, June 22, “in efforts to reduce inpatient admissions in hospitals, while also educating the public on what Urgent Care can support, especially for non-emergencies as well as supportive care in the community.” For more information, go to: www.mydocurgentcare.com.

 

Norwood Community Library 

Norwood Community Library distributes free books at different pop-up events around the borough but also has a library mailbox based at the Keeper’s House, located at 3400 Reservoir Oval East in Norwood. More information about the library can be found here.

 

Building Skills NYC is offering a free, 3-month training program in HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning). Flyer attached further below with more details.

 

 

Illegal Dumping

Dirt Bikes & Scooters 

NYPD reminds residents that dirt bikes are illegal. See attached flyer below. Also, if your scooter has an electric or gas motor with no vehicle ID number, then it is illegal and cannot be driven or sold. Violators could face fines and vehicles will be seized by police.

 

Cash Assistance from NYC Human Resources Administration

Motorized Scooters 

Motorized scooters in New York City are illegal. See below flier for more information.

 

 

NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave 

NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) advises that paid safe and sick leave is covered for all workers who:

• seek diagnosis or treatment of an illness, injury, or health condition;
• are sick, including from side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine;
• have to take kids to get the COVID-19 vaccine;
• need preventive care;
• have to quarantine;
• seek safety because of domestic violence, unwanted sexual contact, stalking, or human trafficking; or have to care for a family member for the reasons above.

 

For more information about the NYC Paid Safe and Sick Leave Law or to file a complaint, visit nyc.gov/workers.
All covered workers have the same rights and protections under the Law, regardless of immigration status.
Contact NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection: Call 311 and say “Paid Safe and Sick Leave” | Visit nyc.gov/workers | Email OLPS@dca.nyc.gov.

 

Protect Your Home Against Scams

New York City Department of Finance offers assistance to homeowners to help protect themselves against loan scams. See attached flyer below for further information.

 

 

 

 

Kingsbridge Heights Community Center Programs

Kingsbridge Heights Community Center provides a range of helpful programs to the local community for all age-groups. For more information, click here.