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September 27, 2023

My office, along with Council Member Eric Dinowitz, (@EricDinowitzNYC), in collaboration with Congressman Ritchie Torres (@RitchieTorres) and thanks to New York Presbyterian (@nyphospital), will be hosting a FREE FLU SHOT event at St. Gabriel's on October 5th from 10 am - 1 pm. NOTE: Only STANDARD-DOSE flu shots are available.

I was pleased to attend Zero Emission Day along with my colleague Assemblywoman  Amanda Septimo (@amandaseptimo) to advocate for my Green Transit, Green Jobs bill with State Senator Tim Kennedy (@senatortimkennedy). As we commemorated Zero Emission Day 2023, we are reminded that air pollution caused by releasing harmful gases into our atmosphere is the most significant contributor to global warming and climate change. Recognizing the climate disaster that awaits us if we don’t act quickly, we in New York State have set a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 85% by 2050. My Green Transit, Green Jobs bill with State Senator Tim Kennedy will help us reach those goals by requiring public transportation systems to transition to zero-emission buses while protecting collective bargaining rights and providing workforce training to safely move us away from traditional buses to zero-emission buses. Thank you to Mo-Yain Tham (@mymtham), Kevin Garcia from NYC Environmental Justice Alliance (@nyc_eja), Jobs to Move America (@jobstomoveamerica), New York Lawyers for the Public Interest (@nylp), Nos Quedamos (@nosquedamos), UAW Region 9  (@uawregion9), NYC Local 246  (@nyclocal246), New York Teamsters  (@nyteamsters), Environmental Advocates NY (@environmentaladvocatesny), New Yorkers for Clean Power (@nyforcleanpower), Suhali Mendez (@suey2shooz), Jay Mehta (@mehtagoesfoto), Earth Justice (@earthjustice), and Brynn Fuller-Becker for helping organize this event and spreading awareness about this incredibly important issue!

I had the privilege of attending A Hispanic Heritage Month Presentation at Hostos Community College to discuss the Jewish presence in the Dominican Republic after the Holocaust, along with my colleagues Council Member Eric Dinowitz (@EricDinowitzNYC), Deputy Bronx Borough President Janet Peguero (@jpegnyc), and the Governor's Bronx Borough Representative Fidel Malena (@fidelmalena) (pictured below). When many Jewish people weren’t allowed into other countries after WWII, the Dominican Republic opened its doors to the Jewish community. I was very honored to partake in such a meaningful presentation. I thank Dean of Community Relations Ana García Reyes, Communications Publications Editorial Manager Wilfredo José Burgos Matos, Director of Health and Wellness Services Fabian Wander (@fabianwander) and College President Daisy Cocco De Filippis, Ph.D, for hosting us.

It was terrific to attend Riverdale Senior Services' (RSS) goodbye celebration of Executive Director Julie Dalton (@juliedalton102) (pictured below). Julie has been an effective leader of the RSS for the past five years and has done excellent work for Riverdale’s seniors, most notably securing them more funding from the state and city to provide even more resources to assist seniors in community-based services. Thank you for your hard work Julie and enjoy your retirement!

While it was too windy to watch Star Wars in Van Cortlandt Park, it wasn’t too windy to celebrate a major victory blocking a 34k-seat stadium on the Parade Ground with Deputy Director of Van Cortlandt Park Alliance Christina Taylor ( @vcpalliance ), Congressman Ritchie Torres ( @repritchie ) Executive Director and Park Administrator Stephanie Ehrlich, Council Member Eric Dinowitz (@ericdinowitznyc ) & 2 more Dinowitz’s with lightsabers

I had the opportunity to speak at Bronx Community Board 7's first meeting of Fall 2023. It was great to talk with community board members and my constituents to inform them about all we have been doing for the Bronx, including our most recent win in blocking the Van Cortlandt Park Cricket Stadium and about upcoming events in our district. Thank you for including me in the meeting, Bronx Community Board 7, and I look forward to your future meetings as well!

New York State has allowed Energy Service Companies (ESCO) to sell electricity and natural gas to utility customers for over twenty years. Residential and small business energy customers typically receive offers from ESCOs to sell them electricity and natural gas directly with promised savings. However, whereas ESCOs may initially offer lower rates, customers may later be subject to paying higher rates, which would be more than what their local utility company would have charged. My new law (A.703/S.683) requires ESCOs to receive expressed consent from their customer if they seek to change pricing or switch to or from fixed or variable pricing. Additionally, in any notice of contract renewability, ESCOs will also be required to disclose to their customer the current pricing, any proposed price changes, local utility prices, and information on how the customer can compare past bills with what they would have been charged had they received energy services from their local utility company. I want to thank Senator Leroy Comrie for partnering with me on this legislation and Governor Kathy Hochul for signing it into law to ensure ESCO customers receive full disclosure on pricing.

Place Your Order for Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

As of September 25, 2023, residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com again. Here's what you need to know about your order:

• Limit of one order per residential address
• One order includes 
• Four individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests (COVIDTests.gov has more details about at-home tests, including extended shelf life and updated expiration dates)
• Orders will ship free starting the week of October 2, 2023

News 10 Albany, September 20th, 2023 — Employee password privacy law goes into effect

News 12 Bronx, September 22nd, 2023 — Environmentalists and legislators call for change on Worldwide Zero Emissions Day

The Riverdale Press, September 22nd, 2023 — Flu shots available at pair of sites

The Riverdale Press, September 22nd, 2023 — Assemblyman Councilman Dinowitzes pays an unannounced visit to a migrant shelter

Bronx Times, September 25th, 2023 — Hostos explores Jewish life in the Dominican Republic to kickoff Hispanic Heritage Month

A recent National Center for Health Statistics survey revealed that approximately 18 million adults in the United States, constituting almost 7% of the adult population, have grappled with persistent COVID-19 symptoms. The survey also highlighted that roughly one million children have experienced the effects of long-term COVID-19. For this report, long-term COVID-19 is symptoms that endure for at least three months following a positive COVID-19 test result or a medical diagnosis of the virus. In response to the pressing need for a more comprehensive understanding of long-term COVID-19 and its effective management, the Department of Health and Human Services recently allocated $45 million in new grants. These grants are intended to expand access to care and promote adopting best practices in treating and managing long-term COVID-19.

Last week, I asked, "Do you agree with the decision to release $6 billion in Iranian sanctions to free 5 Americans?"

Yes — 57%

No — 34%

Other / No opinion — 9%

Dog Regulations

Failure to Clean Up After Your Dog

Every individual who owns or is responsible for a dog must promptly remove any feces left by the dog on sidewalks, gutters, streets, or any other public areas and dispose of it appropriately. This may include carrying the waste to a toilet, placing it in their trash container or bag, or securely sealing it in a non-leaking bag or container before depositing it in a DSNY litter basket. Please note that these regulations do not apply to guide dogs assisting visually impaired individuals.

Relevant Statute: New York State Public Health Law §1310 (Refer to Public Health Law (PBH), Article 13, Title 1: General Provisions; Control and Abatement)

Penalty: $250 Fine

Control of Pets to Prevent Nuisance

Anyone who owns or is in charge of a pet must ensure that the animal does not cause a nuisance on any publicly or privately used common premises or any areas of a building adjacent to a public place.

Relevant Statute: New York City Health Code §161.03

Penalty: $200–$400 Fine

Leash Requirement for Dogs

Owners or caretakers of dogs must keep their dogs effectively restrained by a leash or chain, not exceeding six feet in length, when in any public place or open area adjacent to a public site.

Relevant Statute: New York City Health Code §161.05

Penalty: $200–$400 Fine

» NYC Parks — Seton Park Adult Fitness Area and Skate Park Construction September 13th

• Please be advised that the Seton Park Adult Fitness Area and Skate Park construction will begin on Wednesday, September 13, 2023. 

» Van Cortlandt Park Alliance — Upcoming Events, September 5th - October 1st

•Birding with NYC Audubon

Saturdays, September 30 - Meet at 9am

Explore Van Cortlandt Park’s ecologically diverse grounds and celebrate a long birding tradition there. A New York City Audubon guide will lead each walk.

RSVP Now

Meet at the Nature Center.

•NYRR Free Youth Running Event in Van Cortlandt Park

Sunday, October 1

Introduce young runners in the family to the magic of cross country with Rising New York Road Runners’ FREE youth running event. Registration is open to participants of all abilities, ages 2 to 18. Every finisher will earn a New Balance souvenir, so learn more (including the start time and distance details) and register here today!

•Floodplain Forest Fridays

Fridays - Meet at 9am

With 640 acres of urban woodland, Van Cortlandt Park could use your help! 

This month, we focus on the floodplain forest and Tibbetts Wetland in the park.

RSVP Now

Meet in front of the Van Cortlandt Golf House.

•Trail Work Wednesdays

Wednesdays - Meet at 9am

Miles of trails traverse the natural areas of Van Cortlandt Park, and they are in need of regular maintenance. Volunteers will assist staff with maintaining the cross-country course and other trails throughout the park. Work includes water bar and checkstep maintenance, corridor clearing, raking, etc. Wear closed-toe shoes and long pants; bring water and a snack.

RSVP Now

Meet at VCPA Garden & Compost Site.

» Van Cortlandt Park Alliance — Youth Run Farmstand, July 12th- October 25th

• FRESH FRUITS & VEGGIES! 

• Wednesdays, 2-7 PM 

• Visit the farmstand at Orloff Ave & Gale Place.

• Meet the interns and shop for tasty, healthy treats. 

• Get the new list of goodies each week → Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

» KRVC — GALLERY 505 Presents "In Dreams", A Solo Exhibit By Annette Black, July 13th-September 29th

• Art Exhibit located at Gallery 505 (505 W 236th St, Bronx, NY).

• Gallery Hours are from Friday 2-pm-4pm, viewings by appointment

• For more information, contact LindaKRVC@gmail.com or visit KRVC

» Van Cortlandt Library - Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month, September 15th - October 15th

•Monday - Thursday 10AM - 7PM

Friday - Saturday 10AM - 5 PM

Closed on Sundays

•Join the Library in honoring the cultures and contributions of people with ancestors from Latin America and Spain. Celebrate Latinx and Hispanic literature, storytelling, and cultures with multilingual programs, resources, story times for kids, and more! Explore recommended reading for all ages, featuring monolingual and bilingual titles.

» Riverdale Neighborhood House — Cocktails in the Garden, October 5th

• The event will be held on Thursday, October 5th at 6:30pm at 5521 Mosholu Avenue.

• Join us as we celebrate the autumn harvest in support of RNH programs. The evening will include live music, a silent auction, and seasonal bites and cocktails.

• Riverdale Neighborhood House announces its annual fundraising soiree on October 5th with more accessible pricing. "Cocktails in the Garden" tickets now cost $150, one-third of last year's price.

•This reflects RNH's commitment to inclusivity. The gala is their primary fundraising event, supporting their nonprofit services.

•Board chair Julia Hodgson emphasizes the importance of accessibility, while Executive Director Andrew Belton highlights the goal of involving more supporters with the lower ticket price.

• Learn more at riverdaleonline.org/citg or contact info@riverdaleonline.org,RSVP by September 22nd

» Woodlawn Conservancy — Italian American Heritage Month Trolley Tour, October 8th

• Sunday, October 8 at 12 PM

• October is Italian American Heritage Month! Recognize the contributions and achievements of Italian Americans on our Trolley Tour!

• Our Italian American Heritage Trolley Tour will take you to the famous Italian Americans interred at Woodlawn. Visit magnificent monuments from the family of renowned marble carvers the Piccirilli Brothers, the mausoleum of visionary Futurist artist Joseph Stella—celebrated for his depictions of the Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island—and the gravesite of one of New York's most beloved and colorful leaders Fiorello La Guardia. 

• The Trolley Tour will be led by architectural historian and dedicated Woodlawn volunteer Anthony Pellino.

• To purchase tickets, please click here.

» KRVC — Arts in the Parl Celebration, October 15th

• A Concert and Fine Art Exhibition on Sunday, October 15th, from 2pm-5pm at Henry Hudson Park (Independence Ave, and Kappock St, Bronx, NY). Meet at the monument at the 227th St. entrance.

• Live Music featuring John Pinamonti and Seeing Voices

• For more information, contact LindaKRVC@gmail.com or visit KRVC

» American Foundation for Suicide Prevention — Out of the Darkness Bronx Walk 2023, October 15th

• Out of the Darkness Bronx Walk, check in at 10:00 AM and walk at 11:00 AM on Sunday, October 15th at Lehman College.

• The Out of the Darkness Bronx Walk is a remembrance, hope, and support journey. It unites our communities and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the ways in which suicide and mental health conditions have affected our lives and the lives of those we love and care about.

 • Contact Dionne Monsanto at either dionneafspnyc@gmail.com or (917) 818-0542 to register

» Van Cortlandt Park Alliance — Hike-toberfest 2023, Van Cortlandt Park, October 21st

• Support the park! Hike-then-sip at VCPA’s Annual Hike-toberfest!

• Hike in the park followed by a classic Oktoberfest celebration, complete with local beer, German food, live music, lawn games, and more.

 • Tickets on Sale! Early Bird Ticket Specials end 9/15!

Click here to purchase tickets.

Sponsorships Available!

Click here for more information on sponsorships.

HIKES!

Start times vary, click here for details.

Lots of options! Something for everyone!

All registered hike participants will receive a VCPA beanie!

All Hikes:

Are led by skilled guides;

Finish at approximately 4:00pm… please take note of start times;

Begin and end at the Van Cortlandt House Museum;

Require onsite check-in. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time for your hike.

OKTOBERFEST!

• From 4 to 6 pm
• German food by Loreley Restaurant & Biergarten;
• Local beer, Alternative Medicine Brewing Company, Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, and more, served in a souvenir VCPA mug by our good friends from the Bronx Beer Hall;
• Lloyd's Carrot Cake Cupcakes;
• Yard games on the Van Cortlandt House Museum lawn;
• Live music;
• Raffle tickets will be sold at the event for the chance to win terrific prizes!

Tickets!

» Riverdale Temple — 5K Riverdale New Year Run, January 1st, 2024

• If you're up for a challenge, get Riverdale ready and Join us for the 5K Riverdale New Year Run on Monday, January 1, 2024, located at 4545 Independence Avenue

Bronx, NY US 10471. Check-in at 10:00 AM.

• Race Fees: September 5th - November 15th: $36, November 16th - December 14th: $54, No day-of registration.

 • To register, go to RiverdaleNewYearRun.

» E-ZPass NY — 24/7 E-ZPass NY Account Access!

• Preparing for a trip or already on the road? Forget to add that new license plate before your vacation? Want to check your balance? Is your account balance low? No worries! Use our Tolls NY Mobile App.

• Real-time payments and account updates are made without speaking to a representative.

• Scan the QR code or click the link below to easily download the app from the App Store or Google Play today!

Please visit our YouTube channel to learn more by clicking here.

» NYC Department of Environmental Protection - Change in Water Supply

• DEP is preparing for a multi-month shutdown of the Delaware Aqueduct later this year

• DEP has slowly started introducing water from the Croton system into the city's supply of tap water

• Residents may detect a slightly different taste in water sourced from different reservoirs due to different mineral contents

• All water used in New York's tap water system are highly tested (2,000 times per day)

• Any concerns about tap water quality should be reported to 311 so DEP can investigate

• For more information about the city's tap water and sources, visit: https://www.nyc.gov/site/dep/water/current-water-distribution.page

• For more information about the Delaware Aqueduct repairs, visit here: https://www.nyc.gov/site/dep/news/21-006/600-feet-below-hudson-river-final-concrete-lining-completed-1-billion-water-tunnel#/0

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz

3107 Kingsbridge Avenue

Bronx, New York 10463

Phone: 718-796-5345 | E-Mail: dinowitzj@nyassembly.gov