CITY BUDGET

1. $93 Billion Budget Passed with Pay Parity for Childcare Workers, Breakfast After the Bell and More

CLEANING UP GOVERNMENT AND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

2. Full Public Match Bill Passes: Get Big Money Out of New York City Politics
3. Kill All the Zombies and Give War Chests Back to the Taxpayers!
4. 194 New Large Trash Cans Coming to the Upper East Side
5. Board of Elections Blocks Online Voter Registration   
6. Investigating Marketplace Discrimination Against Women and People of Color Through the Contracts Committee

EDUCATION

7. New $600k Playground for P.S. 77 and P.S. 198  
8. Speed Camera Expansion Goes Live This Month
9. Congratulating 2019 Graduates

PARKS

10. Sutton East Tennis Summer Sessions
11. John Jay Pool Reopens After Million Dollar Investment
12. Free Summer Fun by MV4NY 
13. Summer Events Thank You

ENVIRONMENT

14. Declaring a Climate Emergency
15. Read my Op-Ed in the Guardian: “The Unseen Carcinogenic Danger Lurking in New York City's Public Parks”
16. Fresh Food Box Has Returned

FIGHTING AGAINST OVERDEVELOPMENT AND FOR AFFORDABLE SPACES

17. NYCHA Backtracks and Promises to Listen to Holmes Tower Residents
18. Hungarian Church and Colonial Dames Landmarked
19. Historic Reforms to Rent Laws Pass in Albany
20. Rent Guidelines Board Passes Another Historically Low Increase
21. New POPS Logo Unveiled
22. ETHOS

TRANSIT

23. Second Avenue Gap Closed 
24. Citi Bike Unlocked: Free Citi Bike Class Returns
25. E-Bikes and E-Scooters Update
26. Increasing Accessibility by Repairing Sidewalk Ramps

EVENTS

27. Attention Small Businesses: Business Education Day 
28. Free Safety Equipment and Training for Delivery Bikes
29. Join Me to Celebrate Pride Month at the Disability Pride Parade

COMMUNITY

30. Serving Seniors with a New Kitchen at Stanley Isaacs
31. Harvey Epstein Town Hall
32. Senator Liz Krueger's Scam Forum
33. Resident Wins in Court Against Noisy Neighbors
34. Israel Day Parade
35. Figment Came to Roosevelt Island
36. Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter’s NextGen Innovation Award
37. Project Open House: Home Modification for People with Disabilities
38. Recognizing Building Service Workers
39. Hunter College Food Policy Summit 40 Under 40

RESOURCES

40. Home Sharing Program at NY Foundation for Senior Citizens
41. Minority Mental Health Month with NAMI
42. Sundays at JASA Summer Session

OFFICE UPDATES

43. Free Legal Clinics      
44. Here to Help
45. Mobile District Hours
46. Ben in Your Building
47. Community Boards
48. NYPD Events
49. Neighborhood and Tenant Associations
50. Events for Adults
51. Events for Kids

$93 Billion Budget Passed with Pay Parity for Childcare Workers, Breakfast After the Bell and More

Since the launch of Universal Pre-K, hundreds of early childhood education professionals have been hired by community based organizations to help fulfill the City promise of Pre-K for all. However, these early childhood education professionals have been making significantly less income than those doing the exact same work under the New York City Department of Education. I have been fighting to end this injustice for years, and we finally won in this year's $93.2 billion city budget, which passed this month, and includes funding to end the injustice of wage inequality.
 
We also got a big win in this budget in our fight against child hunger. The budget includes the restoration of $6 million in funding for Breakfast in the Classroom, the program that brings school breakfast to the students who need it. With 1 in 5 children attending New York City public schools live in a home that struggles with hunger, this funding will help children that face this issue by giving them the opportunity to eat a proper meal so they properly focus in the classroom. This is an issue that I am personally attached to. As a child, I struggled with hunger in school and know first hand how it can affect children academically. Other victories in this year’s budget include:

• $26 million for 200 more licensed social workers and mental health specialists in city schools
• $33 million for day-to-day operations at New York City Libraries 
• $31 million in new Parks Department funding for seasonal workers, gardeners, forestry management, enforcement officers and more.
• $4.4 million for the Department of Sanitation for collection of garbage from street corners.

 
CLEANING UP GOVERNMENT
 
Full Public Match Bill Passes: Get Big Money Out of New York City Politics

For more than a decade, I have been working on legislation to change the campaign finance matching system in New York City. I have advocated for this reform since 2008 when I served on the NYC Bar’s Election Law Committee. I am proud to say that this past month, after years of work, the legislation passed the City Council.
 
In November of 2018, 1.2 million New Yorkers voted to increase and strengthen the public matching system. Following that huge success which I pushed for, in January of 2019, we extended the new rules chosen by the people and passed Local Law 1 of 2019, leading to the first City-Wide officials elected on small dollars and without real estate industry money.  

The legislation follows Local Law 1 of 2019, which I also authored, which applied Ballot Question 1 to the Public Advocate's election. The results of the election demonstrated that the new system is work by flipping how campaigns are finance upside down. Big money no longer made up the three-quarters of campaign cash and was replaced by small dollars that now made up almost two-thirds of campaign cash. For the first time a candidate won citywide office with a pledge not to take real estate money.

Now we have gone further toward empowering voters. The newly passed legislation will increase match from 75% to 89.89% to match every dollar, require candidates who choose the new system to return contributions over new lower limits, allow more candidates to make the ballot since they can use their campaign funds to defend legal challenges to petitions, allow candidates to be eligible for full public funds instead of partial public funds, change payment dates and conflicts of internet filing deadlines, update the language of the Administration Code, and remove provisions held unconstitutional by the U.S. Supreme Court. 
 
The legislation passed with the support of Mayor de Blasio, City Council Speaker Corey Johnson and advocates who believe that this is the right policy for the city by taking power away from the wealthy and spread that power among the general population of the city. For more information on this legislation, read the release at BenKallos.com/releases or check out coverage in the Gotham Gazette.
 

Kill All Zombies and Give War-Chests Back to the Taxpayers!

Elections could get more competitive for incumbent politicians in city politics under a new bill to kill zombie committees and give war chests back to the taxpayers under new legislation introduced. Tens of millions of dollars sit dormant in political accounts amassed in war chests by incumbents to scare away and defeat challengers then remain like zombies as a personal piggy bank for term limited or disgraced politicians who have lost office. 

The New York Daily News reported that if passed, the new legislation will make New York City elections more competitive. The bill would kill so-called zombie committees and give political war chests back to the taxpayers. I introduced this bill because right now there are tens of millions of dollars sitting dormant in political accounts amassed by incumbent politicians to scare away and defeat any potential challenger for their office. The zombie committee money remains like a personal piggy bank for term-limited or disgraced politicians who are no longer in office. Under this new bill, any candidate participating in the city’s campaign finance system would be required to run for a specific office in a specific year, and after the election return, all remaining funds return to the taxpayers. For more information, read the release or the coverage in the New York Daily News


194 New Large Trash Cans Coming to the Upper East Side

Litter-filled sidewalks on the Upper East Side are about to get cleaner with an investment of $135,000 from my office for 194 new large trash cans. The new large trash cans are housed in a metal case with a lid top and a small opening that prevents trash from spilling and has been reported to deter rodents. Following this investment, every corner on the Upper East Side will have a can.
 
With larger trash cans on every corner, we can prevent overflow and litter that spills onto the streets. If your corner needs a new trash can or even a second large trash can, please let me know so that we can clean up our neighborhood together.
 
This on-going rollout follows a 2016 pilot that brought 38 large trash cans to certain spots, with 27 large trash cans just for the East 86th Street commercial corridor. Council Member Kallos sought out to cover Second Avenue from 96th to 54th street to coincide with the opening of the Second Avenue Subway in 2017. Following the 2016 pilot, residents reported reduced litter and rodents, with requests for more cans, resulting in a multi-year investment of $330,000 from FY17 to FY20 through the City Council’s NYC CleanUp initiative, an environmental initiative designed to meet the growing city’s sanitation and environmental challenges.

Watch the new trash cans get unveiled at BenKallos.com/videos


Board of Elections Blocks Online Voter Registration
 
As the New York Daily News reported, despite there being a law which I authored and passed giving New York City residents the ability to register to vote online, the New York City Board of Elections (BOE) voted to add an additional step to the online voter registration process, forcing anyone registering through the portal to sign an additional form from the mail, it is now harder to register to vote online in New York City than it is to register using the old snail mail system. This is extremely disappointing in a city with some of the worst voter turnouts in the country. 
 
There are over 5 million New York City residents registered to vote, but only 2.1 million voted in the most recent November elections. The law making the voter registration process easier by creating an online option was designed in part to get more voters engaged in participating. I will continue to push the BOE to do the right thing here and even work with the state legislature to amend the rules so that the BOE is forced to respect and abide by my online voter registration law which passed the council in late 2017.

Sign our petition calling on the NYC Board of Elections to follow the law and implement true Online Voter Registration now: BenKallos.com/petitions


Investigating Marketplace Discrimination Against Women and People of Color Through the Contracts Committee

In New York City, women and people of color do not receive a representative share of the market in private business and government contracts. In order to combat this disparity, New York has a Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) program, which the Committee on Contracts reviewed in its second hearing under my chairship.

We had a very productive discussion with business owners and advocates where we got to hear about their experiences with the MWBE program. Business owners from Asian-American communities testified that when they exited the M/WBE program because their marketshare had improved, they stopped receiving as many contracts, showing discrimination continues, and the program should include them going forward. We specifically discussed Council Member Deborah Rose’s bill, Introduction 1293-2018, which amends the definition of minority groups for the purpose of M/WBEs program to add Asian Americans back and to include Native Americans. These changes were included in the primary recommendations from a study of the program by the consulting firm MGT. Another key issue that the study highlights is that by the time the data is published, it is out of date. Given this, I introduced a pre-considered bill requiring key data from the study to be updated in real time. The city is moving forward in providing remedies to reduce disparities for M/WBE firms that operate within the city.

If you own a business and may qualify as an M/WBE, you can learn more here: https://www1.nyc.gov/nycbusiness/description/minority-and-womenowned-business-enterprise-certification-program-mwbe



EDUCATION
 
New $600k Playground for P.S 77 and P.S 198  
 

I cut the ribbon on a new $600,000 playground with the help of students, teachers, and administrators at P.S. 77 and P.S. 198.  The playground received $500,000 as a result of the 1,139 winning votes in the  Participatory Budgeting in 2017, and I completed the funding with an additional $100,000 from my office. Due to the schools’ hard work and winning PB, I set aside funding for construction for the playground. Construction began in July of 2018 and was completed in 11 months.

Participatory Budgeting is a democratic process in which community members directly decide how to spend part of the public budget. For more information read the release, watch the video or check out coverage in Upper East Side Patch.
 

Speed Camera Expansion Goes Live This Month

On July 11, New York City's new speed camera program will go into effect. Over the next 12 months, New York City will install 750 speed cameras in school zones over the City. The cameras will operate from 6am to 10pm and will have the ability to issue fines of $50 when a vehicle is caught going 10 miles above the posted speed limit of 25 mph.
 
The new speed cameras are being installed to force drivers to slow down when they drive in and around school zones. When the program was set to expire putting school children at risk, I and other members of the City Council advocated for the program to not only be renewed but also expanded. I previously argued for an aggressive expansion of this program, believing it can dramatically improve safety for pedestrians. Read more on my position in my Op-Ed in City Limits.
 

Congratulating 2019 Graduates


One of my favorite parts of June every year is the honor and privilege I have to share the secret of life and all the wisdom I know at graduations throughout our district.  
 
2019 was no different, I had the pleasure of speaking to parents teachers and graduates at P.S. 59, P.S. 77, P.S 151, P.S. 198, P.S. 183, P.S. 290, East Side Middle School, Yorkville East Middle School, and Eleanor Roosevelt High School. 
 
Thank you to Principals who invited me to participate.  If you’d like me to speak at your school’s graduation next year, or even stop by your class during the year, whether you are a teacher, student, parent or administrator please email scheduler@benkallos.com.



PARKS

Sutton East Tennis Summer Sessions

I was joined by Parks Commissioner Mitchell Silver, Congressmember Maloney, and Manhattan Parks Commissioner Bill Castro as we started a new era at the Queensboro Oval, one where residents will be able to afford to play with an expanded summer session and more affordable drop-in hours. After years of advocacy, my office was able to win:

• An expansion of the summer public access season from 10 weeks under the old contract to 22 weeks of FREE tennis for anyone with a tennis permit from the Parks Department for $10 for youth, $20 for seniors, or $100
• $10 walk-in rate hours for six hours a day during the Winter Season
• Free and $10 per person programs for Youth and Seniors during the Winter Season 

Our advocacy to fix this issue involved supporting a rally at the space in 2016 organized by CB 8 members Susan Evans and Peggy Price. Last year, I also wrote a letter to the Parks Department when I raised several concerns and made my demands. This past month, I testified before the Franchise and Concession Review Committee (FCRC) and Parks Department. Now that Parks Department has awarded the new contract and listened to many of my request on behalf of the residents, I am looking forward to seeing the community be able to enjoy this land. Thank you to Congress Member Maloney for her support in this fight.

Play Free Tennis at the Oval 
All summer long in air conditioning with a Parks Department Tennis Permit
$10 for youth, $20 for seniors, or $100
Get your permit now: nycgovparks.org/things-to-do/tennis 


John Jay Pool Reopens After Million Dollar Investment
 
Summer is here and pools are open! A nearly $1 Million investment in John Jay Pool on 77th and Cherokee has finished just in time for summer. I joined NYC Parks Chief of Operations LeRoy Temple and Parks Commissioner of Manhattan Bill Castro to cut the ribbon at John Jay Park's Outdoor Pool. Parks replaced the pool filtration system with a new state-of-the-art system that improves reliability and reduces energy use for years to come. The pool is open to swimmers from 11 am through 7 pm daily. Early bird and night owl lap swimming hours available. For more information visit nycgovparks.org/parks/john-jay-park-and-pool

I celebrated the beginning of summer by cannonballing into the pool. Check it out at Instagram.com/BenKallos


Free Summer Fun by MV4NY 
 
Muslim Volunteers and the New York City Parks Department will be hosting a Free Summer Fun Day at Ruppert Park, funded in part by my office. On Tuesday, July 16th at 3:30pm, meet residents at the park for hours of free activities for the family. A playground associate will be present to help residents coordinate activities and engage children.
 
Free Summer Fun by MV4NY  
Tuesday, July 16th at 3:30
Ruppert Park, 2nd Avenue and East 92st Street.


Summer Fun Thank You

As promised, my office kicked off summer 2019 with a variety of free activities in our neighborhood parks. Thank you to the hundreds of residents, young and elderly and everything in between who attended Skate Night in late June our Movie Nights throughout the District and of course my favorite Family Day.

All of the events in June were well attended, and I had a great time at each of the ones I made it out to. Thank you to the New York City Parks Department for helping us put these events on, and I am already looking forward to more events in the coming months. What was your favorite programming and what would you like to see more of in the future? Stay up to date with all the events my office organizes by visiting BenKallos.com/events



ENVIRONMENT
 
Declaring a Climate Emergency

Unlike President Trump, I believe that climate change is real and is affecting temperatures and sea levels in places throughout the planet.

In the City Council, we passed my resolution to declare a Climate Emergency, making New York City the largest city to do so as part of an international movement. The declaration was covered in the Huffington Post, CNN, The Hill, Gotham Gazette, and Patch. You can also watch my interview with the online news station, Cheddar.

Other Cities around the world have already declared a climate emergency, making it important that the largest city in the world also declares a climate emergency. The more cities who declare a Climate Emergency, the harder it will be to deny the reality of climate change. The Council has also already taken a major step towards saving the environment by passing the Climate Mobilization Act, which will dramatically reduce the city’s carbon emissions from buildings.

After I introduced Resolution 0864-2019, we held a rally on the steps of City Hallwith Council Member Costa Constantinides Chair for the Environmental Committee, Council Member Rafael Espinal, and about 60 activists from 350 Brooklyn, Extinction Rebellion NYC, Indivisible Nation Brooklyn, and One Queens Indivisible. Two days later, the City Council passed the resolution. Thank you to Speaker Corey Johnson for his support for this resolution.

For more information read the release at BenKallos.com/press-releases and watch the rally at BenKallos.com/videos
 

Read My Op-Ed in the Guardian: “The Unseen Carcinogenic Danger Lurking in New York City's Public Parks”

I will continue to push for the passage of Int 1524, which I authored and re-introduced in April, to prohibit the use of toxic pesticides like Roundup in City parks and open spaces. The bill would also prohibit spraying toxic pesticides within 75 feet of a body of water. In June, the Guardian published an op-ed I authored explaining the issue my legislation and why it’s important we all work to get legislation passed. For more information, read my op-ed in The Guardian. To sign our petition visit BenKallos.com/petition/bantoxicpesticides
 

Fresh Food Box Has Returned
 
GrowNYC’s Fresh Food Box is back at my office this summer. Through the power of collaborative purchasing, Fresh Food Box customers can purchase varied fruits and vegetables based on what is seasonally available at the pop-up GrownNYC sites around New York City, including my office. 
 
Fresh Food boxes aim to contain one kind of fruit, one salad green, one cooking green, an aromatic vegetable, a fresh herb, and a selection of seasonal vegetables. Occasionally they include locally grown grains or legumes. 

This summer every Thursday between 3:30pm and 6:30pm, you will be able to place your order and pay just $14 (cash, credit/debit, SNAP/food stamps, greenmarket bucks) and pick up a bag of farm fresh produce the following week.
 
Fresh Food Box
Thursdays, June - November, 3:30pm - 6:30pm
Office of Council Member Ben Kallos
244 East 93rd Street
(Note: There will be no Fresh Food Box on 7/4)
$14 paid a week in advance (cash, credit/debit, SNAP, greenmarket bucks)
 
Learn more visit http://www.grownyc.org/greenmarketco/foodbox



FIGHTING AGAINST OVERDEVELOPMENT AND FOR AFFORDABLE SPACES

NYCHA Backtracks and Promises to Listen to Holmes Tower Residents 

The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) has decided to go back to the drawing board on its controversial plan to put private development on public land in-between the Holmes Towers on the Upper East Side. Since before the project at Holmes was proposed, I have said that I would only support NYCHA infill if:

1. The new apartments are 100% affordable
2. The current public housing tenants support the project
3. Tenant preference for new units

Unfortunately, the plan for Holmes was made with limited input from the community and especially residents that would have been affected by the new development. The deal the developer was getting was not in the best interest of NYCHA, New York City, even Holmes Towers. 
 
This announcement by NYCHA and the Mayor's office does not mean that their will never be a private development on Holmes Towers' property. We hope that NYCHA and the Mayor's office will take more input from representing elected, the community board and residents of Holmes Towers. For more information on the announcement and some of our advocacy leading to NYCHA's changing course, read my full statement at Benkallos.com/Press-Releases
 

Hungarian Church and Colonial Dames Landmarked
 
This June, the Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) designated two buildings in our district as historic landmarks that should be protected. The two buildings were First Hungarian Reformed Church of New York at 346 East 69th Street and the National Society of Colonial Dames in the State of New York Headquarters, at 215 East 71st Street. 
 
Both of these buildings are historically significant to our neighborhood and I am proud to have helped designate and protect these two structures. I had the opportunity to testify in front of the LPC and share with them as well as the public why the First Hungarian Reformed Church of New York was important to me and why it should be landmarked.
 
As a child, I walked past the First Hungarian Reformed Church every day on my way to Yeshiva at Rabbi Arthur Schneier Park East Day School. This church defines what a landmark is for our community and to this day its design and architecture serve as physical reminders of Yorkville's storied history as an enclave for immigrants in the 20th century. For more information on the landmarking designation read the release at BenKallos.com/press-releases
 

Historic Reforms to Rent Laws Pass in Albany
 
The New York State legislature just wrapped up a historic session in June by passing hundreds of bills that will go on to make the lives of everyday New Yorkers better. Finally helmed by a democratic majority of the legislature, Governor Cuomo passed a package of tenants right bill which the City Council and I have been pushing and supporting for years. We are very lucky on the East Side to be represented by Senator Liz Krueger and Assembly Members Rebecca Seawright and Dan Quart who were instrumental in getting these changes to protect tenants. As reported by amNY some of the new laws are:

Extending rent regulations, making them permanent
Rent regulations will not expire like they have every four to eight years for decades.

Repealing vacancy decontrol and high-income deregulation
When a unit is removed from rent-stabilization because the monthly price hits a certain threshold, currently $2,774.76, and it becomes vacant, will be repealed. 
 
Repeal the vacancy bonus and the longevity bonus
The vacancy bonus, which allows property owners to raise rents as much as 20 percent when a unit becomes vacant. 

Reform rent increases for Major Capital Improvements (MCIs)
The annual increase that landlords will be allowed to charge tenants for major capital improvements, or building-wide upgrades, will be lowered from 6 percent to 2 percent in New York City and from 15 percent to 2 percent in other counties. 

Reform rent increases for Individual Apartment Improvements (IAIs)
The amount of spending on individual apartment improvements will be capped at $15,000 over a 15-year period and owners will only be allowed to make up to three IAIs over that period. 
 
Make rent stabilization an option for localities statewide
The geographical restrictions on the eligibility for the rent stabilization laws will be removed, allowing any city or town in the state that has a vacancy rate of 5 percent or less to regulate rents.

Cap the maximum rent increase for rent-controlled tenants
The maximum rent increases for rent-controlled tenants will be set at the average of the last five Rent Guidelines Board annual rent increases for one-year rent-stabilized renewals
 
Reform the ‘owner use’ exception
Tenants who have lived in a unit for 15 or more years will be protected from eviction under the “owner use” provision, which allows owners to evict a tenant if they want to use the unit for themselves or their immediate family. 
 
Prohibit the Rent Guidelines Boards from setting vacancy bonus and longevity rent increases
Rent Guidelines Boards will not be able to set increases based on the current rental cost of a unit or the amount of time since the owner was authorized to take additional rent increases.
 
Keep stabilized apartments rented by nonprofits in the rent-stabilization system
Rent-stabilized units that are provided by nonprofits to individuals who are homeless or are at risk of homelessness will remain rent-stabilized. 

Extend the rent overcharge look-back period from four to six years
If a tenant makes an overcharge complaint, the court or the state Division of Housing and Community Renewal will be permitted to review six, or possibly more, years of rent history to determine if an overcharge was made. 
 
Require an annual report from HCR on rent administration and tenant protection
The state Division of Housing and Community Renewal will be required to submit an annual report on the implementation, administration, and enforcement of the rent regulation system.
 
Establish the Statewide Housing Security and Tenant Protection Act of 2019
This act will apply to all renters across the state, not just tenants of rent-regulated buildings.
Protections will include banning the so-called “tenant blacklists,” limiting security deposits to one month’s rent, making unlawful eviction a Class A Misdemeanor punishable by a civil penalty of between $1,000 and $10,000.
 
Reform co-op/condo conversion
If owners want to convert a building into co-ops or condos, 51 percent of tenants in the building must agree to purchase apartments before the conversion can be effective.

Implement mobile and manufactured home tenant protections
Reforms for mobile and manufactured home tenants will include a cap on rent increases and protections against evictions. 
 
To learn how the new rent laws help all New York tenants, read more in the New York Times.


Rent Guidelines Board Passes Another Historically Low Rent Increase

For the fifth consecutive year, I rallied, authored sign-on letters, testified and advocated for the Rent Guidelines Board to vote in favor of a rent rollback for 1.6 million rent-stabilitzed apartments and won a low increase of 1.5% for 1-year leases and 2.5% on two-year leases. Over the past five years we have supported the Rent Justice Coalition, Urban Justice Center and Met Council on Housing and led fellow elected officials in securing two consecutive rent freezes and historically low increases in the other years. We must fight every year to keep our rents low so that millions of New Yorkers can afford to live in this great city. Join our fight for a Rent Roll Back at BenKallos.com/petition/RentRollBack

You may still qualify for a rent freeze if you are over 62 or disabled, with a household income of $50,000 or less, live in a rent-regulated apartment and spend more than 1/3 of your income on rent. In June we sponsored a Rent Freeze pop-up with Department of Finance to assist rent-burdened residents. For more information call my office or visit NYC.gov/RentFreeze

 

New POPS Logo Unveiled

Throughout the city, developers get bonuses in exchange for providing public space at their buildings—but very often these spaces don't materialize as promised, including at Trump Tower. In 2017 PIX 11 reported on Trump Tower's failure to provide the promised public space, and the story discussed legislation I helped author that requires additional signage of all POPS detailing amenities, hours of operation, along with a website for the public to find out more information where complaints can be registered.

The New York City Department of City Planning unveiled the new logo it will display at all of the Publicly Owned Private Spaces (POPS) throughout New York City. The winning design by New York City-based graphic artist Emma Reed was one of 607 logo submissions from nearly 60 countries in an international competition. POPS, or pocket parks, offer New Yorkers a reprieve and a place to rest, but if we cannot find them or not sure if you are in one because it is not clearly marked, what is the point? 
 
I am sure New Yorkers will become very familiar with the new logo and that the logo will become synonymous with having a space to relax and enjoy a quiet moment in the middle of the City.
 
For more information read the coverage by Wall Street Journal for more information on the winning design and the competition see the release at BenKallos.com/press-releases.


ETHOS
 
Homelessness continues to be a significant problem in New York City. As of June 23, 2019, there were a total of 58,074 people homeless, 20,758 of them being children and another 11,805 being family members. This ongoing issue is one that we all have to work to try and fix, and won’t be done overnight. Soon after I was elected I launched the Eastside Taskforce for Homeless Outreach and Services (ETHOS) with Borough President Brewer, Senator Krueger, Department of Social Services, community and faith leaders and service organizations. 
 
We hope to get unsheltered people 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 to report on whether the person accepts our city’s offer of shelter, three meals a day, healthcare, rehabilitation, and job training.



TRANSIT
 
Second Avenue Gap Closed
 
As CBS 2 News reported, the infamous Second Avenue bike gap which was a source of danger and unease for years for cyclists biking downtown from the Upper East Side has been filled. After years of pushing and working with the Department of Transportation (DOT), the gap which used to span the entire mouth of the Queensboro bridge on the Manhattan Side is now filled. Although the City still says the gap is not officially done and that the fix is still being tested and watched, it is operational and functioning. As part of the fix, in June the DOT painted a new bike lane on Second Avenue spanning East 68th Street to East 59th Street. They also built a concrete divider nicknamed "the pork chop" to give cyclists a place to wait for the light to change. 
 
Thank you to the community for dealing with the bike gap. I am proud of the effort my office and the Community Boards have put into filling the gap and making our roads safer for everyone. For more information on the gap and its fix read coverage in Upper East Side Patch and stay tuned for a formal announcement of completion by my office and the DOT.


Citi Bike Unlocked: Free Citi Bike Class Returns

Thinking of joining or recently joined Citi Bike? This quick presentation & discussion touches on many of the topics addressed in our Street Skills Class (rules of the road, how to avoid common road hazards, basic traffic principles, where to ride on the road, how to safely change lanes, how to utilize bike infrastructure), but the focus is on how to navigate the Citi Bike system and get the most out of those now-ubiquitous blue bikes. Free Day Passes or member discounts for participants!

Thursday, July 25, 6:00PM-7:30PM
Office of NYC Council Member Ben Kallos
244 East 93rd Street 
RSVP

E-Bikes and E-Scooters Update
 
A pair of bills to legalize both e-scooters and e-bikes passed a vote in the New York State legislature. The legislation now awaits Governor Cuomo's signature in order to become law. The bills would make e-bikes (both throttle and pedal-assist) and e-scooters legal in the state. The bills allow for municipalities to decide how to regulate e-scooter sharing programs. Crucially, Senator Liz Krueger negotiated an exemption in the legislation that will prevent e-scooter shares in Manhattan.


Increasing Accessibility by Repairing Sidewalk Ramps

The pedestrian sidewalk ramps that lead to crosswalks in our city are in terrible condition. This causes particular problems for commuters when it rains or snows, and it creates an unacceptable challenge for New Yorkers who use wheelchairs or walkers or whose mobility is otherwise impaired.

With the help of many of you who have provided pictures of broken sidewalk ramps, we have been trying to fix this problem for years. Four years ago, I authored and sponsored Introduction 0840-2015. Under the bill, if property owners fail to perform needed sidewalk repairs, the city would issue penalties and then ultimately step in to provide the fixes itself. I was also proud to support our allies on this issue, the Center for Independence of the Disabled New York (CIDNY), in their their class action lawsuit against the City of New York to require the City to fix the ramps. In a study, CIDNY found that 75% out of 1,000 curbs in lower Manhattan were hazardous for disabled residents. After all our efforts, I’m pleased to say that the city is moving forward with the rehabilitation of pedestrian ramps in Manhattan. The fixes in our district are slated to begin on Friday, June 28 and are anticipated to be completed in Fall 2020.

For more information on this issue read coverage from Gothamist or read the release at BenKallos.com/press-releases. If you see pedestrian ramps that need fixing, please take a picture and report it to 311, then send my office the reference number and we will follow up to get it fixed.



EVENTS
  
Attention Small Businesses: Business Education Day 
 
On July 9th, the Department of Consumer Affairs Commissioner Lorelei Salas and I will be participating in Business Education Day where we will do direct outreach to businesses on 2nd Avenue between 82nd and 72nd streets. Business Education Days are yearly events held by the Department of Consumer Affairs to provide direct outreach to businesses on the Upper East Side. During the Business Education Day representatives from the Department of Consumer Affairs will be handing out information on business compliance and workers' rights. One of the Department's inspectors will be available to answer questions and provide businesses with advice on the best practices for compliance with the law. The inspector's presence is purely informative - no violations will be issued during the event. If you own or work at a business on 2nd Avenue, make sure to say hello!

Business Education Day
Tuesday, July 9, 4pm-5pm.


Free Safety Equipment and Training for Delivery Bikes
 
Commercial Delivery Cyclists are invited to attend this training provided by the Department of Transportation and funded by my office. At the training, you or your employees will get an update on the new commercial bicyclist law and receive free bike lights.

Free Safety Equipment and Training for Delivery Bikes
Monday, July 15, 2pm-3pm
St. Joseph's Church
404 E 87th St
RSVP: BenKallos.com/event/dot-bike-safety-training-forum-businesses

My office's Bike Safety program continues to improve street safety on the Upper East Side. The program which stretches from East 30th Street in Council Member Keith Powers’ district to East 97th street was launch in 2014. As research shows since then, there has been a trend toward fewer injuries for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists injured in collisions.


Join Me to Celebrate Pride Month at the Disability Pride Parade

On Sunday, July 14th, I will be marching in the Disability Pride Parade from Madison Square Park to Union Square Park at 11 a.m. with my fellow City Council members and staff, including Diana Ayala, the Chair of the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities, and Addiction. I hope you will march in the parade with me! If you would like to join our group at the march, please email scheduler@benkallos.com.


 
COMMUNITY
 
Serving Seniors with a New Kitchen at Stanley Isaacs

PIX 11 and New York 1 covered Congress Member Maloney and my ribbon cutting for $2.1 million renovations completed to the kitchen and the youth center at the Stanley M. Isaacs Senior Center. The renovations included replacing the existing equipment in the kitchen and adding new floors, ceilings, and mechanical upgrades to the youth center. The $2.1 million project began construction in June of last year and was completed ahead of schedule. Stanley M. Isaacs Neighborhood Center is a nonprofit organization with more than 50-years of serving the needs of over 6,000 children and low-income families, out-of-school and out-of-work youth, and older adults annually. The senior center, which helps to provide food security to hundreds of seniors daily through on-site hot meals and home-delivered meals to the homebound and medically fragile, was operating with outdated ventilation systems for over a decade.
 
As seniors face food insecurity in the City, I am proud of the $1,030,000 in funding our office provided for the project. 

Read more at BenKallos.com/press-releases or watch the ribbon cutting at BenKallos.com/videos or on NY1.


Harvey Epstein Town Hall

I am pleased to co-sponsor my friend and ally Harvey Epstein's town hall this month. Harvey represents the Lower East Side of Manhattan in the Assembly and has been a strong fighter on many issues, but especially tenant's rights as a former tenant organizer and member of the Rent Guidelines Board.

Harvey Epstein Town Hall
July 25, 6pm-9pm
NYU Dental
345 E 24th Street at 1st Avenue
New York, NY 10010


Senator Liz Krueger's Scam Forum

Our friend Senator Liz Krueger is hosting a forum on scams. The forum will cover how to recognize a variety of scams, do’s and don’ts, how to report scams, and possible legislative solutions. 

Tuesday, July 16th 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lenox Hill Hospital 
Weisner Conference Room 201A/B
130 E 77th St. 
Achilles Building, Floor 2A

 

Resident Wins in Court Against Noisy Neighbors

The New York Times reported on how one man from the Upper East Side is taking the fight to get a quieter City into his own hands. Mike Edison, a constituent who has worked with my office, has gotten loud construction sites to change their behavior with “stop work orders”, and did so by suing construction companies in small claims court and winning. As CBS 2 News reported, the issue of noise is one I have taken very seriously. I have authored and passed legislation designed to turn down the volume on loud constructions sites and bad neighbors being too loud. 
 
The legislation I passed in 2018 requires the city to respond to noise complaints about nightlife and construction within two hours or on a subsequent day within an hour of the time of the complaint. The new law works to increase the likelihood that inspectors will identify the source of the noise, issue a violation, and restore peace. For more information on this issue and my legislation read past coverage from the New York Times or read the release at BenKallos.com/press-releases
 

Israel Day Parade

 Each year, I continue the tradition of participating in the Celebrate Israel Parade. I have been marching since I was a yeshiva student at Park East Day School and with my synagogue, and now I continue to march as a member of the New York City Council. I was proud to celebrate Israel, as always.


Figment Comes to Roosevelt Island
 
It was a real treat to see hundreds of residents enjoying the artwork on Roosevelt Island as a result of FIGMENT taking place there. I too took the time to visit the art installations and have some fun with the interactive pieces. Thank you to the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation and to FIGMENT organizer David Koren for putting on such a very good and well-attended event. Read about the fun on the Roosevelt Islander blog and learn more about Figment at https://newyork.figmentproject.org/


Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter’s NextGen Innovation Award
 
Neighborhood Coalition for Shelter is working to stimulate and encourage creative solutions to the challenges of homelessness. The $5,000 NCS NextGen Innovation Award, supports the work of an emerging leader who is advancing new approaches or methods addressing issues related to homelessness in New York City. To be eligible for the award candidates may study or work in a range of disciplines, as long as they can demonstrate the impact of their proposed project on homelessness in New York City. Candidates must be an emerging leader who is advancing new approaches or methods addressing issues related to homelessness in New York City. Applications for the inaugural award are due by 10/15/2019, with the winner to be selected by 12/15/2019 and announced at an NCS event in early (January/February) 2020.  If you qualify you should apply. For more information on eligibility visit www.ncsinc.org/nextgen-award
 

Project Open House; Home Modification for People with Disabilities
 
Project Open House removes architectural barriers in the homes of people with permanent disabilities. The program is designed to increase independence in the activities of daily living, thus helping people with disabilities remain a part of their communities. Project Open House provides an opportunity for many individuals to modify their living environments for the better.
Project Open House is funded with Community Development Block Grant money from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Program participants must meet Federal Section 8 income guidelines and reside within the five boroughs and is on a first come, first served basis. You can begin applying on July 1st, 2019 by visiting www1.nyc.gov/site/mopd/initiatives/application.page
 

Recognizing School Security Officer

It was a pleasure recognizing security officer agent Meyers for his years of service to East Side Middle School. I awarded him with a citation at the suggestion of school administrators, Principal David Getz, and teachers who were thankful for his 9 years of exceptional service to the school. Congratulations to agent Jeramine Meyers and we wish him good luck on his next endeavor.


Hunter College Food Policy Summit 40 Under 40
 
Congratulations to the 40 under 40 rising stars in New York City’s Food Policy scene and thank you to Hunter College’s Food Policy Center for recognizing their work and inviting me to the ceremony to talk to them about some of the work I have done around food policy and how important the work they are doing continues to be. Food policy has been a focus of mine since I was elected. I have passed legislation to take our sugary drinks from kids menus in restaurants around New York City, I also worked to get New York City schools to offer universal free lunch and to offer breakfast before and after the bell to students in need. 
 
It was great seeing the work other New Yorkers doing to improve food policy here in our City.  For more information on work I have done involving food policy you can visit Benkallos.com/Food



RESOURCES
 

Home Sharing Program at NY Foundation for Senior Citizens

The Home Sharing Program at the New York Foundation for Senior Citizens matches compatible persons throughout the boroughs in shared living arrangements in dwellings rented or owned by one or more of the participants. The program strives to match persons of whom sharing of living arrangements will enhance their financial and/or social well being, promote companionship, and relieve feelings of loneliness and isolation. There is no charge for this service. For more information, you can visit https://www.nyfsc.org/home-sharing/. 

Minority Mental Health Month with NAMI NYC
This month is Minority Mental Health Month.  NAMI NYC and our community partners will be hosting a Community Mental Health Fair to celebrate Minority Mental Health Month. We would love to have you attend and potentially participate. This event highlights mental health issues faced by communities of color. Through story-telling and live presentations, community members see that help and recovery are possible for people living with mental health challenges. This Mental Health Fair will be held on Saturday July 13, 2019 from 12 pm until 4 pm. The location will be at 1727 Amsterdam Avenue, at 145th Street, in Harlem. 


Sundays at JASA Summer Session
Sundays at JASA is a one-of-a-kind, college-level continuing education program for adults 55+. Join us for our summer session—a unique opportunity to experience our diverse range of courses and get to know our wonderful instructors. Courses include: Crossword Construction, Supreme Court 2019: Major Decisions, Film, and Opera Appreciation.  Summer courses are at the Marlene Meyerson JCC of Manhattan on Sunday, July 21 and Sunday, July 28. Registration, location details, and a full description of courses is available at www.jasa.org/events. Contact Alex Collier at 212-273-5304 or Sundays@jasa.org for more information. 



OFFICE UPDATES
 
Free Legal Clinics 
Need a lawyer? Every month I sponsor legal clinics where you can get free legal advice in my District Office at 244 East 93rd Street from 3pm-6pm:

• General Civil Law, 3rd Tuesday
• Life Planning Clinic, 3rd Wednesday
• Family Law and Domestic Violence, 1st Tuesday
• Housing Clinics, Every Monday and 1st Wednesday

Please call my office at 212-860-1950 in advance to schedule your appointment.


Here to Help
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:

• Seniors: Medicare savings, Meals-on-Wheels, Access-A-Ride
• Housing: searching for affordable units, free legal housing clinic at my office
• Job Resources: training resources and assistance, unemployment benefits
• Families: Universal Pre-K, Head Start, After-School programs
• Finances: cash assistance, tax credits, home energy assistance
• Nutrition: WIC, free meals for all ages

Please also call us at 212-860-1950 or email us at bkallos@benkallos.com with any unresolved 311 complaints.


Mobile District Hours
Get assistance wherever in the district you are when we bring our office to you. Please join us at monthly mobile district hours from 11am–2pm:

• Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street, 2nd Tuesday (11-2pm)
• Webster Library, 1465 York Ave & 3rd East 78th Street, 3rd Wednesday (11-1pm)
• Roosevelt Island Senior Center, 546 Main Street, 4th Wednesday NEW (11-2pm)

 
Ben in Your Building
 
The "Ben in Your Building Program" is a chance to discuss issues of importance to you and your neighbors in person. Please consider inviting me to your cooperative or condominium annual meeting or tenant’s 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, and sanitation issues. Please schedule a "Ben in Your Building" today by calling 212-860-1950 or email Scheduler@BenKallos.com.
 

Community Boards
 
7/16: Community Board 11 Full Board Meeting
6:30pm, Henry J. Carter Specialty Hospital & Nursing Facility 1752 Park Avenue 
 
7/17: Community Board 8 Full Board Meeting
6:30pm, New York Blood Center, Auditorium 310 East 67th Street (first-second) 

 
NYPD Events
 
Save the date: Your local precinct will be holding its National Night Out Against Crime event on August 6th, 5pm-8pm.

23rd Precinct Community Council
No July meeting
 
17th Precinct Community Council 
No July meeting

19th Precinct Community Council
No July meeting
 

Neighborhood and Tenant Associations
 
First Wednesday, 7/10: Roosevelt Island Residents Association Common Council Meeting
8:00 pm-10:00 pm, Good Shepherd (Downstairs), 543 Main Street
 
Second Wednesday, 7/17: Lexington Houses Tenant Association
6:00pm, 1539 Lexington Avenue
 
Second Tuesday, 7/16: Stanley Isaacs Tenant Associations
7:00 pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street
 
Third Tuesday, 7/23: Holmes Towers Tenant Association
7:00 pm, Stanley Isaacs Neighborhood Center, 415 East 93rd Street
 

Events for Adults
 
7/1, 7/15, 7/29: Yorkville writing Circle
5:15pm, 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 biweekly meetings of the Yorkville Writing Circle! Writers of all genres and styles, at all levels, are welcome to participate. No sign-ups required. For adults (ages 18 and up) For more information, please email: YorkvilleWritingCircle(at)gmail.com
 
7/1, 7/8, 7/15: Yoga for Core Strength
6:00pm, 300 East 66th Street, 2nd Floor Fitness Room
In Yoga for Core Strength, you will learn breath awareness meditations with a variety of floor, seated, and standing yoga poses. This purposeful mix of movements will safely build abdominal muscles while protecting joints and the lower back. Our goal with this class is to empower you to feel a deep connection to your body and emotions. Yoga classes at MSK are taught by certified instructors. They have special experience and training to teach yoga to people with cancer. Yoga for Core Strength is a safe class for people experiencing post-treatment side-effects, including neuropathy and joint pain.

7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30: Word for Beginners
3:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Learn the basic features of Microsoft Word 2010, a word processing program you can use to create documents. Topics include: entering and editing text, saving files, and various formatting options. This is a comprehensive course, so please make sure you can attend all sessions. Call 212-289-0908 to register. 
 
7/8: Digital Theatre+ Matinee: Private Lives 
11:30am, Webster Library, Auditorium
Do you love theatre? Join us on select Monday mornings to watch a handful of the finest theatre productions from over the pond. The Comedy of Errors July 8, 11:30 AM, 97 min, 2013 Jonathan Kent Private Lives, a comedy of manners by Noel Coward, sees a romance revisited between Elyot and Amanda after they unexpectedly meet each other while both on honeymoon with their respective spouses. 
 
7/10, 7/24: Adult One-onOne Computer Help Workshop
11:30am, 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, PowerPoint). Wednesday 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Pre-registration required in person or by phone at 212.744.5824. Seating is Limited
 
7/10: Summer Sounds! Mitch Frohman and Latin Jazz Quartet
7:00pm, John Finley Walk, East 86th Street
 
7/11, 7/18, 7/25: Introduction to Mindfulness Meditation 
9:00am, 1429 First Avenue, 3rd Floor Mediation Room 
Learn the basics and feel the benefits of mindfulness meditation in this small group workshop. If you often feel stressed and overwhelmed, this is a good class for you. In six classes, a certified mindfulness teacher, will help you work with your breath to become more aware of your body, surroundings, and reactions to stress.  
 
7/11, 7/18, 7/25: Summer Sunset Thursdays
9:00am, FDR Four Freedoms Park 
Enjoy twilight evenings and other fun surprises at FDR Four Freedoms Park on Thursdays this July as we stay open until 8:30pm!
 
7/11: Film - THE LETTER (1940)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library 
The Letter (1940) 95 min., b&w, William Wyler, Dir. Stars: Bette Davis, Herbert Marshall, James Stephenson. A wealthy woman kills a man, supposedly in self-defense, but a letter may come back to haunt her. ADMISSION FREE. 
 
7/11: 96th Street Library Book Discussion: Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive by Stephanie Land 
6:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Please join us for our July 2019 book discussion. We will be reading Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive by Stephanie Land. The book will be available at the 96th Street Library one month before book discussion. About the book: At 28, Stephanie Land's life plan was changed when a summer fling turned into an unexpected pregnancy. 
 
7/11: The Book That Matters Most by Ann Hood
6pm, Webster Library, Auditorium
Admission is free. Registration is required. Book club participants must reserve copies of each title through the Library's catalog system.  You can reserve your copy by placing a hold on-line at www.nypl.org or visiting your local branch. Book groups are hosted at libraries throughout the city and facilitated by The New York Public Library staff. Our book groups are open to everyone. Learn more and browse all of our book groups online.
 
7/11: Manhattanhenge 
6:00pm, FDR Four Freedoms State Park 
Twice a year, the sun sets perfectly in line with the NYC street grid creating a unique event nicknamed “Manhattanhenge,” and you can see it from Four Freedoms State Park!
 
7/11: Sunset Sketching with Hugo Barros Costa
6:30pm, FDR Four Freedoms State Park
Grab your art supplies and come visit FDR Four Freedoms State Park for a sketching meet up! Artists of all skill levels are encouraged to participate in this fun and free event where you can relax, draw, and meet fellow NYC artists in a beautiful outdoor venue. The sketch meet up will take place during Manhattanhenge, the rare phenomenon when the sunset aligns perfectly with the Manhattan street grid. 
 
7/13: Music - Bellini’s NORMA recital by New York Opera Forum 
1:00pm, 96th Street Library 
New York Opera Forum performs the complete opera of NORMA by Vincenzo Bellini. A live musical recital performed in concert with piano accompaniment. The musical program is cosponsored with 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
 
7/13: Instant Shakespeare Company: Henry the Sixth Part 1
1pm, Yorkville Library, Meeting Room
This is the Instant Shakespeare Company’s 20th Season of presenting free readings of all of Shakespeare’s plays annually. Join us for their dramatic reading of Henry the Sixth Part 1. All ages are welcome.
 
7/13: Start a Revolution Film Series: The Cry of Reason (1987)
2pm, Webster Library, Auditorium 
The issues confronting the people of South Africa are presented from the perspective of Rev. C. F. Beyers Naude, an Afrikaner churchman and anti-apartheid activist for three decades. This film chronicles the spiritual and political journey of Naude, now 72, from trusted pastor to the Afrikaner elite to staunch supporter of the freedom movement. A former member of the Broederbond, the Afrikaner secret society that devised the apartheid system, Naude experienced a reversal of faith when he witnessed…
 
7/16: Weill Cornell Medicine Wellness Series: Heart to Heart
5:30pm, 96th Street Library 
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year nearly 735,000 Americans have a heart attack. Of these, 525,000 are first attack. Come join us for a talk on Heart Health during the Weill Cornell Medicine Wellness Series at the 96th Street Library.
 
7/18: Film - THE DAMNED DON’T CRY (1950)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library 
The Damned Don’t Cry (1950) 103 min., b&w, Vincent Sherman, Dir. Stars: Joan Crawford, David Brian, Steve Cochran. A New York socialite climbs the ladder of success man by man until a life among rich gangsters gives her what she thought she always wanted. ADMISSION FREE.
 
7/18: Reel Classics: A Place in the Sun
4pm, Webster Library, Auditorium
Webster Library Presents: A Place in the Sun A poor boy gets a job working for his rich uncle and ends up falling in love with two women. Directed by: George Stevens 122 minutes; 1951 Film will be shown on 16mm film reel, borrowed by the Library for Performing Arts’ Reserve Film and Video Collection.
 
7/20, 7/21: Pop-Up Library 
11:00am, FDR Four Freedoms Park 
In cooperation with the Uni Project and the Roosevelt Island Public Library, join us for a fun-filled weekend with this family friendly event! Come sit outside, read, draw, play games, and explore a curated collection of books and hands-on materials. 
 
7/20: Quentin Tarantino: The Hateful 8 
1pm, Yorkville Library, Meeting Room 
Join us for Quentin Tarantino's eighth movie The Hateful 8- While racing toward the town of Red Rock in post-Civil War Wyoming, bounty hunter John "The Hangman" Ruth (Kurt Russell) and his fugitive prisoner (Jennifer Jason Leigh) encounter another bounty hunter (Samuel L. Jackson) and a man who claims to be a sheriff. Hoping to find shelter from a blizzard, the group travels to a stagecoach stopover located on a mountain pass. Greeted there by four strangers, the eight travelers soon learn that…
 
7/24: Alzheimer’s Association: Know the 10 Signs Early Detection Matters
2pm, Yorkville Library, Meeting Room 
If you or someone you know is experiencing memory loss or behavioral changes, it's time to learn the facts. Early detection of Alzheimer's disease gives you a chance to begin drug therapy, enroll in clinical studies and plan for the future. This interactive workshop features video clips of people with Alzheimer's disease. Presented by: Licet Valois, LMSW, MPS
 
7/24: Steve Shaiman and Swingtime Big Band!
7:00pm, John Finley Walk, East 86th Street
That uniquely American combination of reeds, brass and rhythm which defined our nation's popular music for more than three decades and which still pervades our public consciousness. The SWINGTIME BIG BAND vividly brings this classic music to life for a new generation of audiences in three-dimensional sound, authentically recreating the style, musicality and essence of each Swing Era band that originated the hits from the Great American Songbook.
 
7/25: Film - CLASH BY NIGHT (1952)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Clash by Night (1952) 105 min., b&w, Fritz Lang, Dir. Stars: Barbara Stanwyck, Marilyn Monroe, Robert Ryan, Paul Douglas. A woman who left her little fishing community for the big city returns in mysterious circumstances and stirs up old jealousies. ADMISSION FREE
 
7/25: Design a Life You Love Living 
5:00pm, Design a Life You Love Living
Speaker, trainer, and certified professional coach, Barbara Phillips, will help you define, design and experience you dream life. In this fun and highly interactive workshop, you will learn: what is it that you really want in your life-what makes you come alive, how to design a dream for your life that reflects your unique life "blueprint," a 5-point test to determine if your dream is right for you, how to step into your life 3 years from now to see how it feels living a life you truly love, Simple thinking strategies that will guard you from your fear, doubt and worry, and turn your greatest possibility into your reality.
 
7/27: Organic Gardening Workshop: Succession Planting & Feeding your Garden 
12:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library 
RI Living Library & Think Park and RI Public Library Present FREE Monthly Workshops on Organic Gardening Open To All Ages Including Parents & Children! This workshop will demonstrate how to plant to create consistent yields throughout the season, plus, what to add to your soil to fuel new and larger growth.
 
7/27: Webster @ the Movies: On the Basis of Sex
2pm, Webster Library, Auditorium
Ruth Bader Ginsburg is a struggling attorney and new mother who faces adversity and numerous obstacles in her fight for equal rights. When Ruth takes on a groundbreaking tax case with her husband, attorney Martin Ginsburg, she knows it could change the direction of her career and the way the courts view gender discrimination.
 
7/30: Sunset Film Festival: Incredibles 2
8:30pm, Basketball & Hockey court at Carl Schurz Park 
 
7/31: Online Job Quest 
6:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library 
Looking for a job online? Feeling lost like a knight on a quest? Fear not! In this class we'll guide you through the thicket of online job searching!
 

Events for Children 
 
7/1, 7/8, 7/9, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29: Baby Play Time 
10:45am, Roosevelt Island Library
Babies can play with toys and get to know their neighbors. For children ages 0-18 months. 
 
7/1, 7/8, 7/9, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29: Baby Play Time 
11:30am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Babies can play with toys and get to know their neighbors. For children ages 0-18 months. 
 
7/1: Film - FERDINAND (2017)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Ferdinand (2017) 108 min., color, Carlos Saldanha, Director. After Ferdinand, a bull with a big heart, is mistaken for a dangerous beast, he is captured and torn from his home. ADMISSION FREE
 
7/2, 7/9, 7/16, 7/23, 7/30: Free Play 
4pm, Webster Library 
Join us on Tuesday afternoons 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.
 
7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31: Toddler Storytime 
10:15am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Toddlers from 18 months to 3 years and their parents/caregivers can enjoy interactive stories, action songs, fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood. First come, first served. 
 
7/3, 7/10, 7/17: Toddler Play Time 
10:45am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Toddlers can play with toys and get to know their neighbors. For ages 18 months to 3 years. 
 
7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31: Toddler Storytime 
11:15am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Toddlers from 18 months to 3 years and their parents/caregivers can enjoy interactive stories, actionsongs, fingerplays, and spend time with other toddlers in the neighborhood. First come, first served. 
 
7/3, 7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31: Toddler Play Time 
11:45am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Toddlers can play with toys and get to know their neighbors. For ages 18 months to 3 years. 
 
7/3: Osmo Open Hour 
2:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library 
Join us at 3 PM for some STEM learning using the iPads and Osmo Kits. All materials are provided through the library. Ages 4+
 
7/5, 7/12, 7/19, 7/26: Bilingual Birdies - Spanish Classes
10:30am, 96th Street Library 
This Summer Myla Birdie is determined to travel to outer space! Join her and the rest of the Bilingual Birdies on an out-of-this-world journey to build a rocket, get dressed in the best space suit, and travel to a dance party on the moon!!! This is a caregiver-and-child program all budding astronauts newborn to age six welcome to attend.
 
7/5, 7/12, 7/19, 7/26: Open Playtime
10:30am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Enjoy a warm and inviting space where parents/caregivers can play with their child, listen to music and socialize with others in the community. Recommend for Ages: 1-3 years. 
 
7/5, 7/19, 7/26: Learn To Play Chess at Webster
4:00pm (7/5), 3:00pm (7/19), 3pm (7/26), Webster Library
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. Led by Timothy Mobley.
 
7/6, 7/20, 7/27: Read to our New York Therapy Dog!
10:30am, Webster Library 
Come read to our therapy dog Tugboat! 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. Available every Saturday!
 
7/8: Summer All Day Event: Music Making for Children 
8:30am, Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Hotel 
Music was popular with  New Yorkers of the 19th century.  Now, on this day,  designed just for children  9-12 , children learn popular songs of the 19th century, play and make harps according to  a 19th century instruction manual, see period sheet music,  learn about instrument makers way back when and get moving  in a room designed just for that purpose over 200 years ago. $60 for ages 9-12
 
7/8: Film - THE LION KING (1994)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library 
The Lion King (1994) 88 min., color, Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff, Directors. A Lion cub crown prince is tricked by a treacherous uncle into thinking he caused his father's death and flees into exile in despair, only to learn in adulthood his identity and his responsibilities. ADMISSION FREE
 
7/8, 7/22: 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.
 
7/8, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29: Preschool Storytime: Petite Picasso 
4:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Read aloud and messy art projects for young children. Wear your art clothes. Smocks will be provided. Limited to 24 participants.
 
7/9: Gardening and Cooking: One Day Event for Children 
8:30am, Mount Vernon Hotel Museum 
Sign Up for a Full Day and Plant, Make, Eat and Learn About Food in the 1820s:  From The roots up, children spend the entire day indoors and out digging, preparing food and enjoying Mother Earth and her products.  Children plant a Take Home Kitchen Garden with delicious herbs, make organic marshmallows, from the roots of marshmallow plants,  and create foods using Museum grown ingredients and recipes developed two centuries ago. All activities are conducted in the manner of 19th-century gardeners and cooks, using cookbooks and gardening manuals from the time. 

7/9, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29: Baby Storytime
10:15am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Babies from birth to 18 months and their parents/caregivers can enjoy great books, lively songs, and rhymes, and meet other babies in the neighborhood. 

7/9, 7/15, 7/22, 7/29: Baby Storytime
11:00am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Babies from birth to 18 months old and their parents/caregivers can enjoy great books, lively songs, and rhymes, and meet other babies in the neighborhood. 

7/10: Summer All Day Event: Astronomy for Children 
8:30am, Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden 
New Yorkers’ interest in the planets and the stars was astronomical in the 1820s!  Today’s young New Yorkers are invited to reach for the stars in the same way 19th century New Yorkers did, with this special look at astronomy of the past and today.   Children  9-12 will be tracing early 19th-century maps of the stars, making a solar system model based on a 19th century Orrery, painting  images of the planets  and planetary surfaces,  and testing  their knowledge of these travelers in the sky.  Learn about the man who was the first to use a telescope to discover a new planet.  Explore names  of the planets 200 years ago, and follow the discoveries of new planets by  scientists and astronomers today.

7/10, 7/17, 7/24, 7/31: Toddler Storytime 
10:30am, 96th Street Library 
Enjoy age appropriate stories, rhymes, singalongs and activities for you and your toddler. This program is for Toddlers and their caregivers. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For babies/pre-walkers check out Baby Storytime on Wednesdays at 11:15am.

7/10: Storytime Fun!
11am, 11:30am, Webster Library 
Join Lex, children from birth to 3 years, and their parents/caregivers for 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.

7/10, 7/15, 7/24, 7/31: Baby Storytime
11:15am, 96th Street Library 
Songs, rhymes, and simple activities for pre-walking babies and their caregivers. Caregivers should be prepared to sit on the floor and actively participate in the program. For children ages 0-1 year old and their caregivers. For Toddlers check out Toddler Storytime on Wednesdays at 10:30 am.

7/10, 7/31: Brick Builders Club 
2:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library 
Join us for free play using LEGO bricks! See what your imagination can create!

7/11, 7/25: Toddler Storytime - Movers and Shakers
11:00am, Roosevelt Island Library 
Toddlers from 1 to 4 years old and their parents/caregivers will shake it together! Sing, dance, and enjoy music, movement and fun! First come, first served. 

7/11, 7/18, 7/25: Family Storytime 
11:00am, 11:30am, 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.

7/11: Sing a Song of Reading 
3:00pm, Yorkville Library 
Join Mr. Patrick, his guitar and his silly puppet friends for a musical celebration of some old favorites. We’ll be hip-hoppin’ with Humpty, cutting loose with Mother Goose and getting down on Old MacDonald’s farm! Be ready for a super-fun time! Best for ages 0-7 years old with their parent/caregiver. Presented by Music with Patrick. 

7/11: Carter Burden Gallery Exhibition 
6:00pm, Carter Burden Gallery, 548 W 28th St #534
Small Works Show On the Wall: Make Your Mark 

7/15: Film - BRAVE (2012)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Brave (2012) 93 min., color, Mark Andrews, Brenda Chapman, Directors. Determined to make her own path in life, Princess Merida defies a tradition, bringing chaos to her kingdom. ADMISSION FREE

7/15: DJ Workshop for Beginners
3:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library 
In this workshop, participants will create a colorful mandala vision using the letters and shapes of their name. All materials will be provided and each participant will have their own personalized mandala to take home! For ages 13-18 years old. 

7/15: Wild About Reading Storybook Safari
4:00pm, 67th Street Library
The animal characters from some of our favorite books will come alive in this fun-filled program! We will compare the real animals to their storybook counterparts as LIVE animals guests such as a little red hen, slow tortoise, wide mouthed frog and a silly rabbit visit with us. We will create our own animal themed storybook to take home. Puppets, multi-sensory activities and creative movement round out this unique experience! Best for ages 3 to 7 years old. Limit to 25 participants only. Presented by The Art Farm in the City

7/16: Misterios de la mascara: Lucha Libre Mask
2:00pm, Webster Library
Have you ever wondered what it was like to be a luchador? Join us for a brand-new mask making workshop where we jump into the world of Lucha Libre. Come learn about the history of Mexican wrestling through storytelling while creating our own unique máscaras (masks). Vámos! Best for ages 5 and older. Presented by Urbans Stages.

7/16: Merce Cunningham: SummerCool 
6:00pm, St. Catherine’s Park 
Were he still alive, Merce Cunningham would have turned 100 in 2019; To honor the groundbreaking choreographer’s centennial, the Merce Cunningham Trust has facilitated the Cunningham Centennial Celebrations, a globe-spanning array of events featuring his work. As part of these celebrations, SummerStage will host, Merce Cunningham: SummerCool, an evening of performances guest curated by 92nd Street Y’s Catherine Tharin, featuring the Stephen Petronio Company, which has incorporated several of Cunningham’s radical theater work into its repertoire; Melissa Toogood, a Bessie Award winning, former member of the Merce Cunningham Dance Company; Calvin Royal III, the star soloist at the American Ballet Theater; and the A-Y/dancers, a repertory dance company from the Hudson Valley.

7/18: Sensory Storytime 
11:00am, Roosevelt Island Library 
An inclusive program that combines the best practices from special education and traditional storytime to create an interactive, engaging program for children of all abilities!

7/18, 7/25, 7/30: Afternoon at the Movies
1:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library 
Come and enjoy a feature film with family and friends in the afternoon! Enjoy the latest feature films at the Roosevelt Island Library. Featuring: 7/9 - Spider-Man: Into the Spider Verse (PG) 7/18 - Mary Poppins Returns (PG) 7/25 - Lego Movie 2 (PG) 7/30 - How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (PG)

7/18: Improve the world: Think Creatively Like a Magician!
4:00pm, Yorkville Library
Experience a jaw-dropping magic show, then learn how it's done. You'll be amazed not only at the magic, but also the science behind it! For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by Bob Friedhoffer.

7/22: Film - HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (2010)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library
How to Train Your Dragon (2010) 98 min., color, Dean Deblois, Chris Sanders, Directors. A hapless young Viking who aspires to hunt dragons becomes the unlikely friend of a young dragon. ADMISSION FREE

7/23: Found Object Mask Making 
4:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Join us in this hands-on workshop where you will learn how just about anything can become part of a mask! From the smallest mask (a red clown nose) to gigantic parade headpieces, you will learn about mask making around the world. Our facilitator will show you how objects you might readily discard, such as bottles, cans, paper tubes, etc.can be recycled to create wearable masks. Every participant will create, and learn how to use, his/her own original mask. For ages 13-18 years old. 

7/24: Blood Drive at Weill Cornell 
11:00am, NYP Weill Cornell Medical Center, 525 East 68th Street
At NewYork-Presbyterian, we recognize the significant role of blood donations in caring for our patients and others in the community. We are proud to partner with the New York Blood Center to host blood drive days, whereby all NYP campuses host blood drives on the same day. The hospital’s goal is to collect 360 units of blood across the enterprise. 

7/24: Mars Space Colony 
2:00pm, Roosevelt Island Library 
Design and build a model of a space settlement where families will live, work and play. Best for ages 5 and older. Limit to 20 participants only. Presented by 

7/25: Bridges of New York
3:00pm, 67th Street Library
Learn about the city’s notable bridges. Build a working model of a suspension, lift or swing bridge. Best for ages 5 and older. Limit to 20 participants only. Presented by ArchForKids: Architecture for Children

7/29: Film - MARY POPPINS RETURNS (2018)
2:00pm, 96th Street Library 
Mary Poppins Returns (2018) 130 min., color, Rob Marshall, Dir. Stars: Emily Blunt, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Meryl Streep, Colin Firth. Decades after her original visit, the magical nanny returns to help the Banks siblings and Michael's children through a difficult time in their lives. ADMISSION FREE

7/31: Owls on the Prowl 
4:00pm, Webster Library
In this program, the audience will learn about these amazing, fascinating birds by meeting live owls and investigating how owls are perfectly designed to be nocturnal hunters. A collection of owl artifacts such as feathers and pellets will also be presented for hands-on investigation. For ages 13-18 years old. Presented by New Canaan Nature Center.