March News: 3K Rally, 20 Floors Ordered Off Supertall, Plastic Bans, Vote in Participatory Budgeting, Job Fair, and Coronavirus Update
Dear Friend,
We finally have enough Pre-Kindergarten seats on the Upper East Side, but while the Mayor has promised of "3K for All" by 2021 next, there are still no plans for most of Manhattan: we've got to start pushing now. Make sure to apply for 3K or Pre-K, sign the petition and join our rally.
Our nearly snowless winter is one more reminder of the realities of climate change, and we need to do everything we can to minimize our harm on the environment, including by reducing plastic waste. Mayor de Blasio signed an executive order implementing my proposed ban on the sale of single use plastic bottles in city parks, beaches and even Trump's golf courses. With the plastic bag ban now in effect you can get your free reusable bag from my district office.
After years of fighting for Pre-Kindergarten we have more than 1,000 seats available for children born in 2016 who are already or will be turning four years old this year. Last year every family that applied received a seat in the neighborhood. Pre-K applications are due March 16, 2020 at nyc.gov/prek
Following my advocacy during budget negotiations to expand 3K to provide free childcare to every three-year-old, Mayor de Blasio announced the rollout to School District 1 on the Lower East Side for this September. While 3K provides preference to residents in the district, if you want it to come to the Upper East Side, or anywhere else in Manhattan, please consider applying now to show City Hall how great the need is in our district. 3K is available a short walk north of 96th Street or a quick ride on the Q or 4/5 to Union Square. It never hurts to apply and, in this case, it will help. You can always decline, and who knows, you might even win a spot!
Apply Now! Pre-K Applications due March 16, 2020: nyc.gov/prek 3K Applications due April24, 2020: nyc.gov/3k
Email UPK@Benkallos.comwhen you apply so we can support you and your family.
In 2017, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the roll out of "3K for All" by the 2021 school year. As of this year, 3K for All is only planned for half of school districts, serving only two-fifths of children, leaving an estimated 39,000 children without 3K throughout our city.
You can make your voice heard by bringing a sign and your family to our Rally for "3K for All" Citywide
Saturday, March 28, 11am
St. Catherine's Park, 1245 1st Ave RSVP
No matter what, please sign and ask everyone you know to sign our petition demanding the expansion of 3K for All Citywide atBenKallos.com/3K
As you may have read in the New York Post, a Supreme Court Judge recently ordered 20 floors off a 59-story tower at 200 Amsterdam after the developer tried to get away with using an illegal 39-sided gerrymandered zoning lot.
As reported in Our Town, I believe the Sutton Supertall and 200 Amsterdam have a lot in common. In both cases developers flagrantly broke the law while the city was complacent. That's why I joined the East River Fifties Alliance in filing a motion to re-argue to take 400 feet off the Sutton Supertall.
In February we celebrated Valentine’s Day, and nothing is more romantic than a wedding. You may have thought I was kidding when I said "I do weddings and bar mitzvahs," but it is true. I had the pleasure of officiating the union of one of my staff members on Valentine's Day itself as well as a beautiful Sunday wedding on Roosevelt Island at Four Freedoms Park. Pictured are my wife and I at our wedding right after I was elected. If you or someone you know is getting married and would like for me to officiate your wedding, email me at BKallos@BenKallos.com.
Coronavirus Update
Recently, a new Coronavirus was detected in thousands of people worldwide, starting in China and spreading from there. There is evidence the infection can be spread person-to-person.
As of March 4, there have only been three New York City residents who tested positive for Cornavirus with at least 8 testing negative.
Here's what you need to know:
Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause mild illnesses like a cold, to more serious illnesses like pneumonia.
Infections with this new virus have been reported in many countries, including the U.S. For an updated list of affected areas, visit cdc.gov/coronavirus.
The virus is likely to be spread from person to person, but it is currently unclear how easily it spreads.
Commonly reported symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath.
Most people (80%) with COVID-19 will feel like they have a bad cold or the flu. Some people will require hospitalization. People who are at most risk for severe illness are elderly or have other health conditions.
At this time, New Yorkers do not need to:
Limit travel within the city.
Avoid public gatherings and public transportation.
Change anything about where you get your food or how you prepare it.
Wear a face mask if you are not sick. Face masks are only recommended if directed by a health care provider.
People wear protective face masks for many reasons, including seasonal allergies, pollution or protecting those around them from a common cold. They should not be harassed or targeted for wearing one.
If you are being harassed due to your race, nation of origin or other identities, you can report discrimination or harassment to the NYC Commission on Human Rights by calling 311 and saying “human rights.”
There are no specific vaccines or treatments available for this new coronavirus, or any other coronavirus.
As the Verge recently reported, Mayor Bill de Blasio signed an executive order this month to officially implement my proposed ban on the sale of single-use plastic bottles in city parks, beaches, and even Trump's golf courses. City agencies will also no longer be able to purchase single-use plastic bottles. Before it was repealed by the Trump administration, President Obama’s ban of the sale of plastic bottles in National Parks resulted in waste reduction of as much as 300 tons. We can't risk the next Mayor overturning this order just like Trump did to Obama, so please join me in calling on the City Council to pass my legislation into law by signing and sharing my petition at BenKallos.com/Petition/BanTheBottle
The statewide ban on the distribution of single-use plastic bags went into effect on March 1. New Yorkers use 5.2 billion carryout bags per year, the vast majority of which are not recycled. As a result, New York City pays an estimated $10 million to transport 100,000 tons of plastic bags to landfills in other states each year. As a co-sponsor on the initial law that was delayed for years by Albany, I fully support plastic bag diversion and believe this bill will encourage New Yorkers to use fewer plastic bags.
Stop by my District Office during business hours for your free reusable bag courtesy of the Department of Sanitation. I can also bring them to you during your next cooperative or condominium meeting for Ben in Your Building—if you are interested, just email Scheduler@BenKallos.com.
3K Rally
In 2017, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced the roll out of "3K for All" by the 2021 school year. As of this year, 3K for All is only planned for half of school districts serving only two-fifths of children, leaving an estimated 39,000 children without 3K throughout our city.
You can make your voice heard by bringing a sign and your family to our Rally to Expand "3K for All" Citywide
Saturday, March 28, 11AM
St. Catherine's Park, 1245 1st Ave RSVP
Each year residents in my district, ages 11 and older, get to vote on how to spend one million dollars in the community through Participatory Budgeting. Starting March 28, you can vote online, absentee, in my district office or at pop-up sites. You can learn more at BenKallos.com/PB
Voting Week is March 28 – April 5
Vote Absentee by April 1 at BenKallos.com/PB/Absentee
Ben Kallos Chess Challenge
Join me at the 2020 Ben Kallos Chess Tournament hosted by Chess in the Schools at Eleanor Roosevelt High School on Saturday, March 21st. Last year students from dozens of schools competed in the tournament. The tournament registration is free with fees funded through my office and open to students from K – 12. For more information visit ChessInTheSchools.org
Ben Kallos Chess Challenge
Saturday, March 21, 9am–4pm
Check-in 7:15am–8:30am
Eleanor Roosevelt High School
411 East 76th Street
Drag Queen Story Hour
Join HARMONICA SUNBEAM for Drag Queen Story Hour (#DQSH), happening twice this month. Stories, songs, and crafts for kids ages 3-8. Drag Queen Story Hour captures the imagination and play of gender fluidity in childhood and gives kids glamorous and unapologetically LGBTQ role models. A drag queen will read inclusive books as well as storytime favorites and lead participants in a fun craft!
Drag Queen Story Hour
March 7, 12pm – 1pm
New York Public Library, 524 Main St. RSVP
In partnership with Silicon Harlem, my office will be hosting the Minority- and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) Job Fair, offering job and contract opportunities for businesses owned by women and people of color. This job fair will include resume-writing and interview skills services.
MWBE Job Fair
March 25, 6 - 8pm
Silicon Harlem, 2785 Frederick Douglass Blvd RSVP
Play FREE starting April 13 through Labor Day with a Parks Tennis Permit: $10 children, $20 seniors, and $100 for all others.
Learn more at BenKallos.com/Tennis
As summer break approaches, tens of thousands of low-income public school students and their families are relying on Summer Youth Programs to keep them safe, fed, and positively engaged. However, $20 million in funding for Summer Youth Programs serving at least 34,000 middle school students was excluded entirely or in part from the preliminary budgets in Fiscal Years 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016 with funding restored each time by the City Council in the Executive Budget.
As reported by the New York Daily News, I co-authored legislation with Youth Service Chair Debi Rose that would eliminate proposed budget cuts and mandate the Universal Summer Youth Programs that our City's children deserve. For more information, read our press release or additional reports from Time Out New York, New York Metro Parents and 1010 Wins.
Thank you to nearly 200 families who signed our petition for a French Dual Language program in School District 2 and pledging to participate. Following our December meeting and outreach to the Department of Education we were met with concerns. With your petition signatures we were able to press on and secure a meeting on Tuesday, March 4 with Deputy Chancellor Wallack to discuss launching a French Dual Language program at the East 76th Street Pre-Kindergarten Center. Please be sure to apply to 3K or Pre-K and don't forget to sign the petition atBenKallos.com/petition/French-Dual-Language
Ribbon-cutting for New STEM Preschool
With help from the founder, staff and students, I had the pleasure of cutting the ribbon at the official opening of Iken Science Academy, a newly re-opened STEM-focused preschool center in my district.
Celebrating 150 Years of Hunter College
In honor of the 150th Anniversary of Hunter College I presented President Jennifer J. Raad with a proclamation from the City Council signed by me and Council Keith Powers.
Recognizing Nightingale’s Centennial
Honoring the Nightingale-Bamford School on its 100-year Anniversary with a proclamation from the City Council signed by me and Council Member Powers.
CyberNYC
Discussing the importance of cyber security and trust frameworks following lightening pitch sessions from student entrepreneurs at NYC Economic Development Corporation’s Cyber NYC.
Office of Food Policy Passes
In one of the wealthiest cities in America, or even the world, there is no reason anyone should go hungry. Gotham Gazette recently reported on the passage of my bill, co-sponsored by Speaker Corey Johnson, that codifies the Mayor’s Office of Food Policy who will be responsible for coordinating initiatives among relevant agencies, conducting outreach to key stakeholders and promoting efforts that increase equitable access to nutritious food. Read more in Gotham Gazette.
Ribbon-cutting for ExpressCare at Metropolitan
As AM New York reported, I joined Council Member Diana Ayala in cutting the ribbon on Metropolitan Hospital’s new "ExpressCare" Urgent Care Clinic at 1901 First Avenue in East Harlem. The $1.6 million clinic will operate seven days a week and help connect patients to primary care doctors in the NYC Health + Hospitals system for follow-up care. For more coverage on the new facility, visit BenKallos.com/press-clips
As AM New York reported, Community Board 5 has officially endorsed my bill to ban glyphosate pesticide use in City parks. Even though many countries have partially or fully banned glyphosate for its link to cancer, Monsanto's Roundup (a glyphosate product) is the City’s most heavily used herbicide. I am happy to speak at your local community board meetings in support of ridding our parks of this chemical and I encourage other community boards to consider passing a resolution in favor of this bill. Support this legislation by signing the petition at BenKallos.com/Petition/BanToxicPesticides
Give Kids A Smile NYC 2020
At Give Kids A Smile NYC’s annual Give Kids A Smile Day, dentists from all over the city volunteered to provide $150,000 in free dental care to over a thousand children in communities across Manhattan.
Standing in Solidarity with NYPD Officers
I joined Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, and Public Advocate Jumaane Williams in condemning criminal gun violence after the attempted assassination of an NYPD officer in the Bronx. Any attack against a uniformed police officer is not just an attack against a law enforcement official, but against the City’s community as a whole.
Even after the initial fallout of the Rivington House scandal, I’ve continued to ask questions about people who have been fired, as well as any further deed sales to ensure that we don’t see another scandal like Rivington while I’m in office. In an unrelated hearing, I asked about an employee who was terminated and it turns out the administration’s response may have landed them in hot water. As the New York Post reported, new evidence came out in a suit investigating whether the former deputy commissioner’s firing from the Department of Citywide Administrative Services was in retaliation for Rivington that brought to question whether false testimony was provided by the administration. As this case is decided, I will be paying close attention to make sure that the administration was telling the truth under oath. For more information on this topic, read the coverage by The Chief-Leader or New York Post.
City & State recently reported on the legislation I authored with Technology Committee Chair Robert Holden to establish an Office of Technology and Digital Services complete with a Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the city. The purpose of this Office would be to drive down costs, build forward-thinking agency technology, and taking on "moonshot" challenges to bring city government into the 21 st Century. For more information, read our press release or additional coverage by StateScoop.
As Gotham Gazette reported, I’m proud to announce that, now, information regarding the City’s $20 billion in contracts will be available for the public at an inspection terminal and online through a new public access platform, thanks to a joint effort by Council Member Brad Lander, the Mayor’s Office of Contracts (MOCS) and I. After nine months of working to upgrade the City’s Public Access Center to include information from the Procurement and Sourcing Solutions Portal (PASSPort), I can confirm that every single resident of the City of New York and members of the press can use the new PASSPort terminal at 253 Broadway to access information on City contracts without appointment. For more information or to watch the announcement, view the press release at BenKallos.com/press-releases or read more in Gotham Gazette.
Onlive Voter Reigstration is ready for New York City thanks for a law I authored that's been blocked by Albany. Fortunately, as Gotham Gazette recently reported on legislation authored by State Senator Zellnor Myrie that passed the Senate to allow our system to go online. I am grateful to the Senator for his leadership and hope the Assembly will pave the way for a new generation of voters to participate in this years elections.
Recently, I met with the New York City Bar Association’s Condemnation and Tax Certiorari Committee to discuss the recent report on the New York City Advisory Commission on Property Tax Reform Preliminary Proposal. I am looking to residents like you and experts for guidance as we move forward with these 10 preliminary proposals. Please consider testifying as part of the process. The next hearing is:
Public Hearing
Thursday, March 12, 2020; 6:30 PM
Petrides School - Auditorium (C-Building)
715 Ocean Terrace
Staten Island, NY 1030
*Hearings in other boroughs will be announced soon.
Maloney Passes Equal Rights Amendment and Women’s Museum
Last month marked a victory for women everywhere, as the House of Representatives voted to pass Congress Member Carolyn Maloney’s legislation to remove the deadline to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment and create a Smithsonian Women’s History Museum, both of which she has advocated for decades. As a the author of a resolution in support of the Women's Museum and as a Constitutional scholar, I was happy to show my support at the press conference celebrating this historic moment. The vast contributions women have made to our nation deserve a place in the Smithsonian, where I can take my daughter one day soon to show her that women are capable of accomplishing anything. Furthermore, the Equal Rights Amendment is important as a legal remedy against sex discrimination, and allowing for its nationwide ratification is a victory for all: "What do we want 'Strict Scrutiny,' when do we want it 'Now!'"
I would like to thank Stanley Isaacs Community Center for hosting a celebration of Black History Month on the Upper East Side with my office and the Office of Assembly Member Robert Rodriguez. This year’s theme “African Americans and the Vote” reflected on the struggles for voting rights that the Black community has faced throughout American history and still face today. Thank you to all the speakers and performers who participated.
NYSABPRL Caucus Weekend
It was my pleasure to attend the New York State Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators’ 49th Annual Conference. Pictured here catching up with my friend and brother President Shaun D. Francois I, President of DC 37 and Local 372.
12th Annual Asian Pacific American City Advocacy Day
At the 12th Annual Asian Pacific American (APA) City Advocacy Day, I joined the coalition calling for equitable funding. The APA community has the highest poverty rate across all race/ethnic groups, yet they do not receive a fair share of City funding dedicated to social services.
A Lunar New Year Celebration
I joined Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer who gave the Korean-American Family Service Center a proclamation for their great work fighting domestic violence.
On my birthday, I joined my friend Public Advocate Jumaane Williams along with my brothers and sisters at the Laborers Union, and New Immigrant Community Empowerment in protesting the New York Construction Alliance (NYCA) whose founding member New Line allegedly owes more than a dozen workers some $70,000 in wages. So far, six workers have been paid and we will not stop until all of the workers get paid. Read more in LaborPress.
Worker Abuse Brings Protest to the German Consulate
With international conglomerates buying buildings in New York City, I've taken my advocacy for workers' rights international, fighting alongside IUOE Local 94 to get two of their building engineers rehired by the German-owned company Oetker. We rallied outside the German Consulate, and I appreciate the Deputy Consul General sitting down with me and IUOE Local 94 leadership to hear our concerns. Our fight alongside IUOE Local 94 continues.
City & State’s Diversity Summit 2020
At this year’s City & State Diversity Summit, I joined a panel on the effort to increase diversity and inclusion for women and people of color seeking to do business with the city through the MWBE program. As I said at the Summit, I am here to help. You can email me at Contracts@BenKallos.com or you can join us at our MWBE Fair.
As temperatures begin to drop, homelessness in New York remains at crisis levels with 21,612 children, 17,207 family members, 4,207 single women, and 11,911 single men in our shelters, and more than 2,794 people on the streets. Because of this, in 2016, I launched the Eastside Taskforce for Homeless Outreach and Services (ETHOS) with Borough President Brewer, Senator Krueger, Council Member Garodnick, Department of Social Services (DSS), community and faith leaders and service organizations. We’ve already been able to help a chronically homeless individual in the community who we believe had long been suffering from mental illness, after a resident was willing to come forward working with me, the 19th Precinct, the District Attorney and DSS to get them the help they needed. We hope to get every unsheltered person living on the street the help they need. If you see one of our City’s most vulnerable on the street, please call 311 or use the NYC 311 App (Android/iPhone) to ask them to dispatch a “homeless outreach team.” They will ask where you saw the person, what they looked like, and offer report on whether the person accepts our city’s offer of shelter, three meals a day, health care, rehabilitation, and job training. By connecting our dedicated nonprofits and religious institutions with city services, ETHOS is really making a difference.
Be ready for tax season with some help this year. AARP is partnering with Lenox Hill Neighborhood House this year through April 15th. AARP Counselors will be on hand to help those interested each day between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Please be prepared to spend several hours there with proper documentation such as Government ID and SSD. Taxes for other states may be processed if you notify an AARP Counselor. Services to prepare tax returns for 2019, 2018, 2017, and 2016 are available. Counselors can amend 2016 or 2017 statements if you used Lenox Hill Neighborhood House with AARP in those years. For more information or locations near you visit aarp.org/taxaide.
The AARP tax aide program will return to Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center at 415 E 93rd St every Friday in March from 9:30AM to 2:00PM. Please note these services are of no cost to you and on a first come, first serve basis. Please bring all required documents, if you are claiming dependents please bring original social security cards for each individual. The IRS requires this to prevent fraud.
92Y Teen Art Week
Join the 92Y for the first-ever citywide celebration of the arts for teens, by teens. Leading cultural organizations in all five boroughs will present free classes, workshops and performances for teens March 2–8. Events enable teens to gain hands-on experience in different areas of the arts, engage with professionals in the creative industries, and explore pathways to future leadership within the context of the arts. Open to all NYC teens 14+ with a valid school ID. Educators are encouraged to bring student groups, both during and after regular school hours. Check out amazing events in all 5 boroughs & sign up at 92y.org/teenartsweek
NYRR Run for the Future is a free, seven-week scholarship program that teaches 11th-grade high school girls how to run. The program highly encourages young women who have not previously participated in organized sports to apply. Those accepted into NYRR Run for the Future who fulfill the program requirements will receive a $2,000 college scholarship. Please visit nyrr.org to access the application and eligibility requirements. Summer season applications are due April 12, 2020.
From February 3rd to April 3rd, donate your used, gently worn, or new athletic sneakers & cleats! The athletic sneakers & cleats we collect will be kept out of landfills, help others in developing countries start small businesses to create a sustainable income, and be recycled into tracks, playgrounds & other athletic surfaces. Only accepting athletic sneakers & cleats, no canvas sneakers other than Converse will be accepted. The Donation box is located at Office of Ben Kallos 244 E. 93rd St (b/w 2nd & 3rd Ave)
Time is short. The census forms will arrive in the mail beginning March 12. Would you like to get your census questions answered ahead of time? Join Get Counted NYC on March 10 for an uplifting educational evening with plenty of time for networking with speakers and attendees in the beautiful, historic home of the NYC Bar, which is a New York City Landmark. Register online at Eventbrite.com/e/Get-Counted-NYC
We are here to help. My social work team can help you find out what services you are eligible for and assist you in your application. Some examples include:
We bring our office to you on Roosevelt Island on the 4th Wednesday of each month from 11am to 2pm at Roosevelt Island Senior Center, 546 Main Street, 4th Wednesday.
The "Ben in Your Building Program" is a chance to discuss issues of importance to you and your neighbors in person, in your home. Please consider inviting me to your cooperative or condominium annual meeting or tenants association meeting and I will be happy to join you. Over the past year, I have visited several buildings to discuss matters of importance in the neighborhood, including street furniture, road conditions, homeless outreach, sanitation issues and you name it. Please schedule a "Ben in Your Building" today by calling 212-860-1950 or email Scheduler@BenKallos.com.
3/2: Start Your Day with Art: Paint a Mini Canvas 11:30am Webster Library, Auditorium
Visit the Webster Library for a relaxing morning of creative expression. We'll be painting on mini canvases - all supplies provided! Join us and take home a piece of art to share with family and friends.
3/2: Start Your Day with Art: Paint a Mini Canvas (125th Anniversary Celebration) 11:30am, Webster Library
Visit the Webster Library for a relaxing morning of creative expression. We'll be painting on mini canvases - all supplies provided! Paint what the New York Public Library means to you. You can even paint a scene from your favorite book! Join us and take home a piece of art to share with family and friends. First come, first served. No registration required.
3/2, 3/9: Creative, Fun, Mixed Media Arts Hands - On 12:00pm, 67th Street Library
Explore your artistic potential with Creative Aging, a series of art workshops for older adults (age 50+). Join us for a workshop on Mixed Media Art. Teaching artist Nefeli Soteriou will guide participants through the art of Mixed Media over six sessions. Space is limited to 12 attendees per workshop. Please register in person, in advance. The participants will be chosen by lottery. Sign up in person, in advance. Participants will be selected via lottery. Attendance at all sessions…
3/2, 3/9, 3/16: Walk-in Computer Help 3:00pm - 4:00pm Webster Library, Auditorium
Need help with computers? Work one-on-one with a staff member. Use this time to improve Internet skills, navigate emails or even Microsoft Office! Sessions are limited to 20-minute time slots unless there is no one waiting.
3/2, 3/7, 3/18, 3/28: Yorkville Writing Circle 11:00am - 1:00pm Mon/Wed, 5:00pm - 6:45pm Sat, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Want to meet local writers? Commit to a writing schedule? Practice your craft through writing prompts? Read original work to get and give feedback? Then come to the Yorkville Writing Circle where writers of all genres, styles and levels are welcome to participate. No sign-ups required. Latecomers Welcome.
3/2: Mystery Mondays 4:00pm, 67th Street Library
Mystery Mondays' book discussion featuring stories of suspense, secrets, and lies.
3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/30: Adult Coloring 11:00am, 96th Street Library
When we color, it brings out our inner child. We are reminded of the days when life was simple when we worry less. Coloring is the latest craze where you might expect to see children, you find adults. They have immerse themselves in patterns of mandalas, curved flowers and runaway stems. This is a world they create and escape to. come join us at the 96th street Library.
3/3, 3/17: Webster Writing Circle 6:00pm Webster Library, Auditorium
Let your stories unfold! Join Webster for an exploration in creativity. This writing circle is informal in style and structure: there is no experience necessary. We’ll spend time writing and talking about what we have written.
3/4, 3/18: The Art of the Short Story with Renee Trainer 5:30 - 6:45pm Webster Library, Auditorium
Local author Renee Trainer will take you through the entire process…preparing your mind, getting ideas on paper, and help you through the editing process. You'll learn new writing skills and techniques, and find new ways to express yourself. No registration required, and all are welcome.
3/4: Webster’s @ The Movies Presents: Harriet 11:15am Webster Library, Auditorium
based on the thrilling and inspirational life of an iconic American freedom fighter, Harriet tells the extraordinary tale of Harriet Tubman's escape from slavery and transformation into one of America's greatest heroes.
3/4: Seventh Annual Oleg Woolf Memorial Readings 5:30pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
StoSvet/Cardinal Points Project and the Russian American Cultural Center present the Seventh Annual Oleg Woolf Memorial Readings.
3/4, 3/18: Adult One-on-One Computer Help Workshop 11:30 - 1:00pm Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Work one-on-one with a volunteer tutor. Improve Internet skills, create, and use e-mail, cell phone help, Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Power Point).
3/4: American Cuisine and How it Got that Way 6:30pm, Mount Vernon Hotel & Museum
Is there an American cuisine, and if so, what is it? Join Paul Freedman, author and Yale University Professor of History, as he explores the question of our national cuisine and its evolution, beginning with New England staples such as cranberry-sauce tart, roast turkey, and johnnycakes. Tastings included, such as Mock Turtle Soup or New England Clam Chowder, Waldorf Salad, and Buttermilk Brown Sugar Pie. $40 Adults, $25 Members, $22 Senior Members, $10 Students with ID. Call the Museum at 212-838-6878 to reserve a ticket.
3/5: Book Discussion Group: Siracusa by Delia Ephron 6:00 - 6:45pm, Webster Library, Auditorium
An electrifying New York Times bestselling novel about marriage and deceit that follows two couples on vacation in Siracusa, a town on the coast of Sicily, where the secrets they have hidden from one another are exposed and relationships are unraveled. Admission is free. Registration is required.
3/5: Women’s Writing Group 4:15pm, 67th Street Library
Women's Writing Group First Thursday Every Month, 4:30-6:15pm Hannelore Hahn, who directed the International Women's Writing Guild for 37 years, hosts a monthly informal women’s writing & discussion group. Everyone is welcome for discussion, too!
3/5, 3/12, 3/14, 3/19, 3/28: Computer Tutoring Sessions 3/5, 3/14, & 3/28: 12:00pm, 3/12 & 3/19: 5:30pm, 67th Street Library
Join us for a one-on-one tutoring sessions! Our computer tutors can help you with everything from learning how to use a mouse, formatting a resume, setting up an email address, posting photos on the internet, starting a blog, using Microsoft Office, and more. Stop by the branch to sign up for one of our help sessions and get a personal tutor at your service! This program will run every Thursday and Saturday. (*Unless indicated) Space is limited.
3/5: Film - CAFÉ SOCIETY (2016) 2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Café Society, color, Woody Allen, Dir. Stars: Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Steve Carell. In the 1930s, a Bronx native moves to Hollywood and falls in love with a young woman who is seeing a married man. ADMISSION FREE. This film is 96 mins long.
3/5: Book Discussion: Emma by Jane Austen 6:00pm, 96th Street Library
Please join us for our March book discussion. We will be reading Emma by Jane Austen. Copies are available at the 96th Street Library one month before the book discussion. About the book: Before writing this novel Austen said: "I am going to take a heroine whom no one but myself will much like." Emma is young, rich and independent. She has decided not to get married and instead spends her time organizing her acquaintances' love affairs.
3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27: Movement Speaks with Dances for a Variable Population 10:30am - 12:00pm, Webster Library, Auditorium
Join us celebrating moving in strong and creative ways! From February 2020 - April 2020, Naomi and company will lead seniors on the Upper East Side in a series of dance fitness classes for older adults of all ages and abilities.
3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27:Learn To Play Chess at Webster 3:00pm, Webster Library, Auditorium
Are you a chess champion? You want to show off your best moves against other chess fans? Whether you're a chess master or just starting out, come join us for some board time Fridays at 3 p.m. Learn how to play, practice your skills, or to play a game. All materials will be provided, and an experienced instructor Timothy Mobley will lead the group.
3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27: AARP Tax Aide 10:00am, 67th Street Library
AARP’s free income tax preparation program is an IRS-certified and supervised program offering tax services. Please see tax prep requirements here. For a full listing of tax assistance locations and general information, visit nypl.org/taxhelp.
3/6, 3/13, 3/20: Arts and Crafts 4:00pm, 67th Street Library
Create based on the theme or art technique of the month, or choose to create wherever the inspiration takes you! For ages 6-12. Younger children must have a parent or caregiver present and ready to participate.
3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28: English Conversation Group 11:00am, 67th Street Library
Talk with native speakers and other language learners about current events, New York City, family life, holidays, and much more. For adults 16 years old or older. This program is provided in partnership with New York Cares, a leading volunteer organization that helps people find easy ways to make meaningful, rewarding contributions to their communities.
3/7: Music - Strauss' ARIANDNE AUF NAXOS recital by New York Opera Forum 1:00pm - 4:00pm, 96th Street Library
New York Opera Forum performs the complete opera of ARIADNE AUF NAXOS by Richard Strauss. A live musical recital performed in concert with piano accompaniment. The musical program is co sponsored with the New York Opera Forum which was founded by Richard Nechamkin in 1983 to give classically trained singers the opportunity to learn and perform standard operatic repertoire in the original languages. ADMISSION FREE
3/7: American Cuisine and How it Got that Way 1:30pm, Mount Vernon Hotel & Museum
Hear about the history of the world’s most popular beverage and how it was prepared in early 19th-century America. Historic teas and herbal infusions will be served on 19th-century ceramics, accompanied by period appropriate refreshments. $20 Adults, $15 members and Students with ID.
3/9, 3/23: We Speak NYC English Conversation Groups 11:30am, 96th Street Library
NO REGISTRATION NEEDED! We Speak NYC is an Emmy-winning TV show created to help people practice English. Each story is about everyday situations, like going to the doctor or talking with a child's teacher. The characters speak slowly and clearly. Intermediate and Advanced Level Conversation Classes for English Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL): Adult learners will have the opportunity to learn English by watching We Speak NYC videos and discussing them with other adults from around the world.
3/9: Walk-in Computer Help 3:00pm - 4:00 pm Webster Library
Need help with computers? Work one-on-one with a staff member. Use this time to improve Internet skills, navigate emails or even Microsoft Office! Sessions are limited to 20-minute time slots unless there is no one waiting.
3/9: Author Talk- Kathy Iandoli: God Save the Queens 5:30pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
For far too long, women in hip-hop have been relegated to the shadows, viewed as the designated “First Lady” thrown a contract, a pawn in some beef, or even worse. But as Kathy Iandoli makes clear, the reality is very different. Today, hip-hop is dominated by successful women such as Cardi B and Nicki Minaj, yet there are scores of female artists whose influence continues to resonate.
3/9: Movie Monday: Joe Gould's Secret (1999) 3:00pm, 67th Street Library
In 1942, a journalist (Stanley Tucci) investigates a man writing an “oral history of the world.” This film is 104 minutes in length.
3/11: Author Talk: Elizabeth Barlow Rogers- Saving Central Park: A History and a Memoir 5:30pm - 6:30pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Join us in welcoming Elizabeth Barlow Rogers, president of the Foundation for Landscape Studies, as she discusses her own story and a comprehensive history of Central Park: its design and construction as a scenic masterpiece; the alterations of each succeeding era; the addition of numerous facilities for sports and play; and finally, the "anything goes" phase of the 1960s and 70s, which was often fun but nearly destroyed the park.
3/11: Webster @ the Movies: Judy 3:00pm, Webster Library, Auditorium
Thirty years after starring in "The Wizard of Oz," beloved actress and singer Judy Garland arrives in London to perform sold-out shows at the Talk of the Town nightclub. While there, she reminisces with friends and fans and begins a whirlwind romance with musician Mickey Deans, her soon-to-be fifth husband. This film is 118 minutes in length.
3/12: Film - DETECTIVE STORY (1951) 2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Detective Story (1951) b&w, William Wyler, Dir. Stars: Kirk Douglas, Eleanor Parker, William Bendix. On one day in the 21st Precinct squad room, assorted characters form a backdrop for the troubles of hard-nosed Detective Jim McLeod. ADMISSION FREE. Film is 103 mins long.
3/14: Quentin Tarantino- Once Upon a Time in Hollywood 1:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Join us as we present this motion picture directed by Quentin Tarantino. An actor and his stunt double struggle to keep pace with the evolving entertainment industry in 1960s Los Angeles. This film is 161 minutes in length.
3/14, 3/28: 1-on-1 Computer Tutoring Sessions 12:00am, Webster Library Auditorium
Join us for one-on-one tutoring sessions! Our computer tutors can help you with everything from learning how to use a mouse, formatting a resume, setting up an email address, posting photos on the internet, starting a blog, using Microsoft Office, and more. Limited Seating (6 people max)
3/14: New York City Women on 16mm: Tally Brown, New York 4:00pm, Webster Library Auditorium
Flamboyant singer Tally Brown provides a tour of New York's underground clubs and cabarets while narrating the story of her city life and career performing in strip joints, Las Vegas clubs, and New York's now defunct Continental Baths. This event is 18+.
3/18 Webster @ the Movies: Terminator: Dark Fate 11:15am, Webster Library Auditorium
In Mexico City, a newly modified liquid Terminator -- the Rev-9 model -- arrives from the future to kill a young factory worker named Dani Ramos. Also sent back in time is Grace, a hybrid cyborg human who must protect Ramos from the seemingly indestructible robotic assassin. This film is 128 minutes in length
3/18: Resume Workshop 6:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
In this course learn how to whip your resume into shape and get an interview everytime!
3/19: Film - CAGED! (1950) 2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Caged! (1950) b&w, John Cromwell, Dir. Stars: Eleanor Parker, Agnes Moorehead, Ellen Corby. A young woman is sent to prison and becomes as bad as what she is presumed to be when first convicted. ADMISSION FREE. Film 96mins long.
3/23: Author Talk: Ian Probstein 5:30pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Please join us as the Russian American Cultural Center presents Ian Probstein, Russian-American poet, scholar, and translator of poetry will present an annotated edition of Complete Plays and Poems of the Nobel Prize Winner T. S. Eliot (1888-1965) published in 2019 by St. Petersburg, Azbooka and the book of Selected Poems and Essays of Charles Bernstein, The Bollingen Prize Winner (2019) just published by the Russian Center of Contemporary Literature (Moscow: Russian Gulliver, 2020) as well as his own recent books of poetry in Russian: Two Sides of the Medal (Moscow, 2019), A Spell (Minsk, 2018) as well as his new poems (Novy Mir, 2019).
3/23: Movie Monday: On the Basis of Sex (2018) 3:00pm, 67th Street Library
Future Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg launches her career fighting for gender equality by proving discrimination "on the basis of sex" is unconstitutional. This film is 120 minutes in length.
3/25: Spring Cleaning for the Mind and Body Through Meditation 5:30pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Jim Rose, long-time meditator and retired executive with Johnson & Johnson, will show you how meditation can grant you the peace you seek.
3/25: Webster @ the Movies: Queen & Slim 11:15am, Webster Library Auditorium
Slim and Queen's first date takes an unexpected turn when a policeman pulls them over for a minor traffic violation. When the situation escalates, Slim takes the officer's gun and shoots him in self-defense. Now labelled cop killers in the media, Slim and Queen feel that they have no choice but to go on the run and evade the law. This film is 132 minutes in length.
03/26: Film - SUSPICION (1941) 2:00pm, 96th Street Library
Suspicion (1941) b&w, Alfred Hitchcock, Dir. Stars: Cary Grant, Joan Fontaine, Cedric Hardwicke. A young heiress begins to believe her new, mysterious husband may be trying to kill her for her money. ADMISSION FREE. Film is 99mins long.
3/28:Webster @ the Movies: Joker 2:00pm, Webster Library Auditorium
Forever alone in a crowd, failed comedian Arthur Fleck seeks connection as he walks the streets of Gotham City. Arthur wears two masks -- the one he paints for his day job as a clown, and the guise he projects in a futile attempt to feel like he's part of the world around him. This film is 122 minutes in length.
3/28: Mount Vernon Hotel & Museum Guided Tour in English & Spanish 2:00pm, Mount Vernon Hotel & Museum
Constructed in 1799 as a carriage house for a 23-acre estate, and converted into the Mount Vernon Hotel in 1826, this stone building sits on land originally owned by Colonel William Stephens Smith, and his wife Abigail Adams Smith, daughter of John Adams. The theme for March will be art. Refreshments celebrating our shared traditions served after each tour. RSVP requested by calling 212-838-6878 or emailing info@mvhm.org.
3/30:Celebrating 125 Years @ NYPL with Local Authors: Brian Plazter- Bed-Stuy Is Burning 5:30 - 6:30pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Join Yorkville as we welcome Brian Platzer author of Bed-Stuy is Burning. Do the Right Thing meets The Bonfire of the Vanities, in this “thrilling debut novel about marriage, gentrification, parenthood, race, and the dangerous bargains we make with ourselves” (Ann Packer, New York Times bestselling author) set over the course of one cataclysmic day when riots erupt in a rapidly gentrifying Brooklyn neighborhood.
3/30: Author Talk: Brian Plazter- Bed-Stuy Is Burning 5:30pm - 6:30pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Join Yorkville as we welcome Brian Platzer author of Bed-Stuy is Burning. Do the Right Thing meets The Bonfire of the Vanities, in this “thrilling debut novel about marriage, gentrification, parenthood, race, and the dangerous bargains we make with ourselves” (Ann Packer, New York Times bestselling author) set over the course of one cataclysmic day when riots erupt in a rapidly gentrifying Brooklyn neighborhood.
3/31:Weill Cornell Wellness Series: Heart Health 5:30pm, Webster Library Auditorium
Join Weill Cornell Medicine for a Wellness Seminar on heart health at the Webster Library.
3/3, 3/10, 3/17: Homework Hangout 3:30pm, 67th Street Library
Looking for a place to get some homework done? Working with others on a group project? Even if you’re just looking to hang out with your friends in a relaxed environment, come to 67th’s street Homework Hangout.
3/2, 3/9, 3/16: Teen Tech Lab 3:30pm, 67th Street Library
Want to learn about computer programming? Interested in making video games or telling stories. Join our Google CS FIRST club! Learn the Scratch and Python programming languages. No prior experience is required.
3/2, 3/9, 3/16/, 3/23, 3/30: Toddler Story Time 11:30am, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Toddlers from 18-36 months old (Walkers) and their parents/caregivers can enjoy great books, lively songs, and rhymes, and meet other toddlers in the neighborhood. Programs are first come, first served, space is limited
3/3, 3/6, 3/10, 3/13, 3/17, 3/20, 3/24, 3,27, 3/31: Baby Storytime 10:30am, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Babies from birth to 18 months old (Pre-Walkers) and their parents/caregivers can enjoy great books, lively songs, and rhymes, and meet other babies in the neighborhood.
3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/30: Teen Space 3:00pm - 5:00pm, Webster Library
Come hang out with your friends on Tuesday afternoons! Play board games, work on homework, read a book, exercise your creativity, or just chill. Laptops, assorted art supplies, and light snacks available.
3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31: Toddler Time 11:00am & 11:30am, 67th Street Library
Join us to hear stories, sing songs, and get those wiggles out as you help your active toddler build important early learning skills. Discover ways to promote early literacy at home and meet other caregivers in the neighborhood.
3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31: Pre-K Storytime 4:00pm, 67th Street Library
Join us for stories, songs, fingerplays, and fun as we help your child get ready to read. For preschool-aged children, or those for whom a preschool-aged program is developmentally appropriate.
3/3:Portraits in Oil Pastels 4:00pm, Webster Library
Participants will discuss the art of portraiture and use various materials to create portraits of well-known individuals. All materials will be provided. For 13-18 years old. Presented by Community Word Project.
3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25 :Hora de Cuentos (Spanish Storytime) 11:00am, 67th Street Library
¡A leer y a cantar en español! Para todas las edades.
3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25: Baby Lapsit 2:00pm, 67th Street Library
Join us for a special time to bond with your baby and meet other caregivers. We will introduce our babies to the joys of movement, books, and songs, and begin to build their early learning skills. Come prepared to sit with your baby on your lap. For Crawlers/Pre-Walkers
3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25: Game On! @Webster 4pm, Webster Library
Come in and test your gaming skills against your peers, with games such as Super Smash Brothers and Mario Kart for Wii. Feel like trying something new? Try playing on our PS4 with games such as Street Fighter 5 and TMNT, just to name a few. Also laptops will be available for anybody that just wants to sit down and relax.
3/4, 3/11, 3/18: Teen Time 3:30pm, 67th Street Library
Hang out with other teens, use the computer, play video games, and have fun at 67th Street's Teen time!
3/4, 3/11, 3/18, 3/25: Early Readers Storytime 4:00pm, 67th Street Library
This program aims to continue the practice of storytime for older children. Each week, participants will discuss a book within the framework of an opening question. At the conclusion of storytime, there will be a craft or related reading activity. For ages 5-7. Parents and caregivers welcome.
3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26: Baby and Toddler Open Play 11:00am, 67th Street Library
Join us for a library playdate and meet other caregivers as we explore developmentally appropriate play materials in a safe, warm, and joyful environment. Extend your child's learning through play!
3/5, 3/12, 3/18, 3/26: Preschool Story Time 4:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Come meet your friends at the library and listen to some of your favorite picture books.
It's a great way to end a busy day. Ages 3 and older.
3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26: Family Storytime 11:00, 11:30, and 11:45am, Webster Library
Toddlers from birth to 3 years and their parents/caregivers can enjoy interactive stories, action songs, fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood. There is a limit of 15 children and their caregivers. Tickets are given out the morning of the program on a first come, first serve basis. Times of the programs are approximate.
3/5, 3/12, 3/19: Krunker & Video Games 3:15pm, 67th Street Library
Like to play Krunker? Like PS4? Then come join the Teens of 67th and play video games!
3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26: STEM Explorers 4:00pm, 67th Street Library
Join us for an afternoon of STEM exploration. We will discuss science, technology, engineering, and math concepts, then conduct experiments or projects relating to the week's topic. Come prepared to assist your child with each activity. No pre-registration required. Limited to 20 participants: first come, first served. Experiments may be messy. Smocks recommended.
3/5, 3/12, 3/19, 3/26: Free Play 11:15am, Webster Library
Join us on Thursday mornings for a fun chance to socialize with other kids from the community! Toys are provided. Please note: This program is for both caregiver and child. It is not a structured program. *Take care to supervise children at all times.
3/6, 3/13, 3/20, 3/27: Puzzle Fun For Kids 3:00pm - 4:00pm, Yorkville Library Children’s Room
Come to the library for some puzzles and fun! This program is great for all ages.
3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28 Read to our New York Therapy Dog! 10:30am Webster Library
Come read to our therapy dog Jackson! These licensed therapy dogs and their owners can't wait for you to come read them a story. Enjoy one-on-one, no-pressure reading time with a furry friend! Pre-registration is required for each 15-minute slot and opens 1 week in advance.
3/7: Tween Time- Tie Dye Fun 3:00pm, Webster Library
Tie Dye Fun- bring an old shirt you'd like to tie dye. Limited number of shirts will be provided. This is a messy program dress accordingly.
3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28: Kids' Coloring Club 10:00am - 12:00pm, Yorkville Library Children’s Room
Join us every Saturday morning from 10am-12pm for our Kids' Coloring Club -- children of all ages are invited to color coloring sheets featuring their favorite characters, seasonal designs, and more. Feel free to bring your favorite coloring book!
3/7, 3/14, 3/21, 3/28: Read to Fritz, our New York Therapy Dog! 11:00am, Yorkville Library Children’s Room
Come read to our therapy dog Fritz! These licensed therapy dogs and their owners can't wait for you to come read them a story. Enjoy one-on-one, no-pressure reading time with a furry friend! Pre-registration is required for each 15-minute slot and opens 1 week in advance. For ages 5 and up.
3/9: Mutt-i-grees 3:30pm, Roosevelt Island Library
The presence of a dog is a therapeutic, calming force. In conjunction with our rescue pups, the Social Emotional Learning activities bring the experience beyond a one-time feel good moment and instills life-long critical skills. Coming together to create and collaborate on ideas, one's potential is unmasked. They learn how their individuality may become part of a greater entity by working together.
3/9, 3/23: Art Buffet 4:00pm, Webster Library
Let your imagination run wild! Join us for an hour of uninterrupted, creative fun. Pick and choose from our craft supplies to make a masterpiece to take home.
3/10: Holi 4:15pm, Webster Library
Holi is a Hindu Spring festival in India, also known as the festival of colors or the festival of sharing love. The festival signifies the arrival of spring, end of winter, and is also celebrated as a thanksgiving for a good harvest. Celebrate with us with a story and craft.
3/10: Early Literacy Workshop: celebrating Dr. Seuss 2:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Join us as we celebrate the exciting world of Dr. Seuss in this Dr. Seuss theme early literacy workshop.
3/11: Fran Manushkin Author Appearance 5:15pm, Webster Library Meeting Room
Acclaimed children's author Fran Manushkin, will appear at the library to read some stories and talk about being a writer. Fran has written many children's books including: The popular Katie Woo and Pedro Series, The Belly Book, Happy in Our Skin, How Mama Brought the Spring, Many Days, One Shabbat, and more. Please join us for Fran's library visit.
3/11: My Neighborhood Jams 4:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
Everyone in the city has a story, what's yours? We will create our own tales, while also exploring elements of storytelling and hip hop to create the story of our neighborhood. We will look at the work of NYC rappers and artists to see how they use lyrics to paint a setting that invites audiences into their city. For 13-18 years old. Presented by Community Word Project.
3/12:Webster @ the Movies: Frozen II 5:15pm, Webster Library Auditorium
Elsa the Snow Queen has an extraordinary gift -- the power to create ice and snow. But no matter how happy she is to be surrounded by the people of Arendelle, Elsa finds herself strangely unsettled. After hearing a mysterious voice call out to her, Elsa travels to the enchanted forests and dark seas beyond her kingdom -- an adventure that soon turns into a journey of self-discovery. This film is 103 minutes in length
3/16: Around the World Book Discussion: The God of Small Things 6:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library
Explore the world through the works of international authors. This stop takes us to India, where you can join in on the conversation of the novel The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy. Copies of the book are available to borrow at the circulation desk with your library card.
3/16: Make-and-take Parent Workshop 5:30pm, 67th Street Library
Fun for the whole family in this super-charged making session! Choose from three stations or use art supplies as an open studio.
3/17: STEM: Learning About The Solar System 3:00pm, Yorkville Library Children’s Room
Join us for Preschool STEAM: Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math! Join us we will explore the exciting world of space and the planets! Audience: Children, Pre-schoolers (3-5 years), Parents/Caregivers, Children
3/23: Kid Flicks 4:00pm, Yorkville Library Children’s Room
Join us in our community room for our children's film showing. Watch short films based on popular picture books. The perfect way to meet up with friends and end a busy day.
3/23: Graphic Novel Book Club 5:00pm, 67th Street Library
Join us to discuss graphic novels! We will take the first half of the program to discuss the book and the second half will be an open comics-creating studio. This month: 5 Worlds: The Sand Warrior by Mark Siegel. For ages 9-12. Parents and caregivers welcome.
3/24: Finding Rosie 4:00pm, 96th Street Library
As millions of American men left our shores to fight overseas, our nation’s women took up the call to fill the gaps that were left behind. Intrepid Museum educators will help you interpret the poster art and other primary documents used to motivate women to keep our home front thriving at a time when over 13,000,000 men went off to fight in World War II. For 13-18 years old. Presented by Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum.
3/26: Musica Viva NY Concert 11:15am, Webster Library Auditorium
Join us for a concert featuring a vibrant variety of classical and folk music. Performers are classically trained, professional vocalists representing the four sections of the traditional choir: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. The recital will conclude with singers teaching children and families a simple folk song for an audience singalong. For children ages 0-5 years.
3/26: R.E.A.D with Lola 3:30pm, 67th Street Library
Read to a licensed therapy dog. Bring your own book or choose from our selection. Ages 5-12. Pre-registration required in person or by calling (212) 734-1717.
3/27: March Craft Time 3:00pm, Yorkville Library Meeting Room
It's Craft Time at Yorkville! Drop in for a quick craft. Bring your creativity and make something special to take home. Ages 3 and up.
In February we celebrated Valentine’s Day, and nothing is more romantic than a wedding. You may have thought I was kidding when I said "I do weddings and bar mitzvahs," but it is true. I had the pleasure of officiating the union of one of my staff members on Valentine's Day itself as well as a beautiful Sunday wedding on Roosevelt Island at Four Freedoms Park. Pictured are my wife and I at our wedding right after I was elected. If you or someone you know is getting married and would like for me to officiate your wedding, email me at 
As 
I would like to thank Stanley Isaacs Community Center for hosting a celebration of Black History Month on the Upper East Side with my office and the Office of Assembly Member Robert Rodriguez. This year’s theme “African Americans and the Vote” reflected on the struggles for voting rights that the Black community has faced throughout American history and still face today. Thank you to all the speakers and performers who participated. 
On my birthday, I joined my friend Public Advocate Jumaane Williams along with my brothers and sisters at the Laborers Union, and New Immigrant Community Empowerment in protesting the New York Construction Alliance (NYCA) whose founding member New Line allegedly owes more than a dozen workers some $70,000 in wages. So far, six workers have been paid and we will not stop until all of the workers get paid. Read more in 
