9/11 Memorial Events

Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and the Supreme Court of Bronx County is hosting a 9/11 memorial service on Monday, 13th Sept. at noon, at Lou Gehrig Plaza. See attached flyer for more information.

Partnerships for Parks announced that on Saturday, October 16th, nearly 1,000 volunteers will gather in parks across the city for Fall IMP-act Day, the group’s annual citywide park beautification day.

For the 20th anniversary of 9/11, volunteers will begin planting 70,000 daffodil bulbs which will bloom in the spring of 2022, honoring the lives lost to the terrorist attacks through the Daffodil Project. Volunteers will also plant crocus bulbs to remember the loved ones lost to COVID-19. If you’d like more information or wish to attend the bulb planting projects scheduled on Saturday, October 16th, contact Pilar Maschi at pmaschi@cityparksfoundation.org, Tomasia Kastner at tomasia.kastner@parks.nyc.gov on (646) 983-8699 or Christina Pettit at cpettit@cityparksfoundation.org.

COVID-19 Updates

• On June 24, 2021, New York State ended the State disaster emergency (PAUSE order) declared on March 7, 2020, to fight COVID-19.
• NYS Department of Health (NYS DOH) requires all teachers, administrators, and other school employees to submit weekly COVID-19 testing, unless they show proof of vaccination.
• NYS DOH has released official guidance for classroom instruction for the 2021-2022 school year. This can be found on: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2021/09/school-guidance.pdf
• Governor Kathy Hochul has mandated that all healthcare workers in New York must be vaccinated by September 27th with no testing alternative.
• Gov. Kathy Hochul recently signed into law a new moratorium on COVID-19 related residential and commercial evictions, which is in effect until Jan. 15, 2022. To apply, go to: https://otda.ny.gov/programs/emergency-rental-assistance/.
• The distribution of COVID-19 booster shots will be supported by $65 million in funding to local health departments across the State.
• The open enrollment period for uninsured New Yorkers has been extended through Dec. 31, 2021. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health, at https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/ or directly through insurers.
• The FDA has expanded the emergency use authorizations for the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna mRNA vaccines so that immunocompromised individuals will be eligible to receive a third booster vaccine shot in order to boost their antibodies.
• Health care workers can text NYFRONTLINE to 741-741 to access 24/7 emotional support services.
• Any New Yorker can call the COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline at 1-844-863-9314 for mental health counseling.
• The CDC updated its mask guidance to recommend that fully vaccinated individuals wear masks indoors when in areas with “substantial” and “high” transmission of COVID-19 to prevent further spread of the Delta variant. A map detailing these areas is available here.
• NYC now offers free at-home PCR COVID-19 testing for all New Yorkers who are 65+ or immunocompromised. The service is available 7 days a week from 9am to 7pm, and appointments can be scheduled by calling 929-298-9400.

New COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements

As of August 17, people 12 and older are required to show proof they have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine to obtain access to indoor dining, indoor fitness, and indoor entertainment. Learn more at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-vaccines-keytonyc.page.

On Sept. 9, Mayor Bill de Blasio mandated that all NYC pre-kindergarten, child care, and after-school program workers who have contracts with the city must show proof of at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by September 27th.

Proof of Vaccination

According to NYC DOH, when proof of vaccination is required, New Yorkers can choose from the following options:

• a CDC vaccination card, or photo or photocopy of this card;
• an NYC vaccination record or other official immunization record from within or outside the U.S., including from a health care provider or a photo or photocopy of this card;
• the NYC COVID Safe App, on Android or iOS, where residents can upload a photo of their CDC vaccination card or other official record, along with a photo ID;
• the Excelsior Pass or Excelsior Plus Pass, where New Yorkers will need the phone number or email address associated with their NYC vaccination record. More information is available at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-vaccines-keytonyc.page.

Data Shows Vaccination Works

NYC DOH said data collected to date shows how the COVID-19 vaccines are protecting New Yorkers against infection and illness. Since mid-January, the vast majority of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths in NYC are occurring in unvaccinated people. Between January 17 and August 17, people who are unvaccinated in NYC accounted for:

96.1% of all COVID-19 cases

96.9% of COVID-19 hospitalizations

97.3% of COVID-19 deaths

Excluded Workers Fund

The application for the Excluded Workers Fund is live. Visit ​​https://ewf.labor.ny.gov/new to apply. For more details and to learn about documentation required to apply, visit on.ny.gov/ewf. This $2.1 billion State fund will provide financial relief for New Yorkers state-wide who have suffered income loss during the pandemic and were left out of the various federal relief programs, including unemployment and pandemic benefits.

NYC Utility Moratorium

New York’s statewide utility shut-off moratorium, which had expired on March 31, has been extended. The law extends the statewide moratorium on utility shut-offs, including water, heat, electric, telephone, cable, and broadband services until the conclusion of the COVID-19 state of emergency, or until December 31, 2021, whichever comes first. For New Yorkers suffering financially due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the law enshrines a further moratorium extension of 180 days.

Private Employer Vaccination Mandate 

On September 9th, as confirmed by State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi, President Joe Biden mandated that all private employers with 100 or more workers require their workers to be vaccinated or tested weekly. He also mandated that all healthcare workers in hospitals, clinics and other facilities that accept Medicare and Medicaid payments and all federal contractors must get vaccinated, with no opt out option.

MTA Reminds Returning Riders That Masks Are Still Required on Public Transit
The MTA reminds riders that masks are still required on public transit. The MTA is ramping up mask education and distribution efforts as more riders are expected to return to the office and school post Labor Day. Robust outreach includes digital messaging and public service announcements in stations and onboard buses, subways and commuter rails. Free masks are available at subway station booths and onboard commuter rail trains.

COVID-19 Business Guidelines

COVID-19 restrictions in New York State have been lifted, subject to ongoing guidance (see above), since 70 percent of adults have received their first dose of the vaccine. For the latest industry guidance, go to: https://forward.ny.gov/active-industry-guidance.

Funeral Cost Reimbursement for COVID-19 Deaths

FEMA provides financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses. On June 29, 2021, FEMA amended the funeral assistance policy to assist with COVID-19 related deaths that occurred in the early months of the pandemic. This policy change will allow applicants to submit a signed statement from the certifying official on the death certificate or the local medical examiner, or coroner, that attributes the death to COVID-19 deaths that occurred between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020.

Childcare for Essential Workers 

The New York Office of Children and Family Services is administering $25 million in funds to provide child care support for children of essential workers. The Essential Worker Scholarship is only available to residents of New York State and will be awarded weekly through payments made directly to child care providers on the parents’ behalf. Parents will be responsible for paying any tuition amount that is greater than the market rate. Families currently receiving child care scholarships under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act are strongly encouraged to also apply for this new funding opportunity. For more information and to apply visit https://ocfs.ny.gov/main/contracts/funding/COVID-relief/essential-workers.php.

Free Training from NYC Department of Small Business Services

The NYC Department of Small Business Services is providing no-cost, online training to help business owners and employees in NYC. Click here for more information: http:// nyc.gov/trainingemployees

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz advises that a number of important bills were signed into law this summer, including:

Early Voting and Absentee Ballot Reform

These laws would align the last day a ballot can be postmarked with the deadline for hand-delivered ballots. They also allow absentee ballots to be requested by letter rather than a signed absentee ballot application. Similarly, it provides that federal write-in absentee ballots, military ballots, special presidential ballots and special federal ballots received after Election Day must contain a postmark, cancellation mark or witness dated Election Day or earlier.

Sidewalk Service Law 

This law allows restaurants and bars statewide to use sidewalks, parking spots and other municipal spaces for outdoor food and beverage service for another year.

Hispanic Heritage Month & National Citizenship Day 

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month and National Citizenship Day, Dominicanos USA is hosting a citizenship application event on Friday, Sept.18. Register here. On Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the organization offers one-on-one services to help residents complete applications. Visit the website, https://dominicanosusa.org/, for more information.

Opioid Settlement Fund

This law creates an independent settlement fund for money collected from opioid litigation.

Gun Control

This law is the first-of-its-kind in the nation and would allow sellers, manufacturers, importers, or marketers of guns to be held liable for a “public nuisance,” defined as actions that harm the public.

Partial Unemployment System Reform 

This law revamps New York’s partial unemployment system so that it reduces benefits based on earnings the worker receives from part-time employment.  It also establishes an earnings disregard equal to one-half of a worker’s weekly UI benefit and requires New York State’s Department of Labor to implement an immediate interim fix by allowing workers to work up to 10 hours a week without reduction in part-time unemployment benefits, up from the current 4 hours. The new law is scheduled to take effect by April 2022. For more information about the program, visit http://dol.ny.gov.

Back-to-School Events

City Council Member Eric Dinowitz and Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz are hosting a back-to-school at Mosholu Montefiore Community Center at 3450 DeKalb Avenue, on Sept. 9 at 4 p.m. until supplies last. The National Black Leadership Commission will also host a similar giveaway on Sept. 10 at 3 p.m. at 2975 Bainbridge Avenue, The Bronx. Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center in Norwood is also hosting a back-to-school event on Saturday, Sept. 11, from noon to 2 p.m., with games, read-along sessions, arts & crafts and more. Flyers for a number of additional back-to-school events are attached.

Woodlawn Run for a Cause – 15th Annual 5K (Virtual)

The 15th Annual Woodlawn 5K Run for a Cause will take place virtually between Sept. 12 and Sept. 18. Money will be raised for Feeding Westchester and Fordham-Bedford Housing Corporation. For more information, please visit www.woodlawnrunforacause.org.

Resources & Help following Storm Ida

Service centers have opened citywide to support individuals and families affected by the flash flood emergency that occurred on Sept. 1 following Storm Ida. Services are available to all visitors, and visitors to the sites will not be asked about their immigration status. The Bronx center was previously located at Waterbury Avenue at P.S. /M.S. 194 but as subsequently reported, has now moved to Hostos Community College, 450 Grand Concourse, E. Building C, Bronx, NY 10451. Bronxites can also call 311, or access city services online by visiting NYC.gov/ida. Please see here and here for other recent updates on the response from the City to the storm and help available to residents.

The office of Assemblywoman Nathalia Fernández (A.D. 80) is offering support in filing claims for damages. Residents can stop by the assemblywoman’s office any time until Sept. 10 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. for assistance. Call (718) 409 0109 or email district80@nyassembly.gov. 

State Sen. Alessandra Biaggi has said The Bronx will receive funding for emergency protective measures, debris removal and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure, as well as direct support for individuals and homeowners. Eligible New Yorkers can receive funds for uninsured or under-insured disaster-caused expenses, such as repair or replacement of personal property or funds for moving and storage, or medical, dental, and childcare. The link to apply for FEMA financial assistance can be found here: www.disasterassistance.gov. The senator is offering assistance with filing FEMA claims. Contact her office at biaggi@nysenate.gov or call 718-822-2049.

False Rumors of Illegal Conversion Inspections  

DOB officials said rumors on social media that DOB inspectors are going door-to-door, unannounced, asking for access to homes to conduct illegal conversion inspections, ARE FALSE. The City received over 2,700 self-reported notifications of storm-damaged property across the five boroughs. These notifications have been self-reported by property owners and tenants living in these properties.

In the interest of protecting New Yorkers, DOB said it is conducting safety inspections of these 2,700+ properties to check for structural damage and other immediately hazardous conditions. DOB is triaging these storm damage notifications as they come in, and inspectors are checking the affected properties are safe to occupy.

If storm-related damage is found during these inspections, the property owners are being notified, and are being provided with guidance on repairs. Vacate Orders are only being issued as a last resort, when building occupancy poses an immediate life safety threat. To date, the inspection teams have not issued any Vacate Orders for illegal conversion conditions.

U.S. Small Business Administration Fact Sheet

Disaster Loans are available from the U.S. Small Business Administration for those who experienced physical damage as a result of the Remnants of Hurricane IDA from Sept. 1 to 3, 2021, under New York Declaration 17147 & 17148 (Disaster: NY-00208) in the primary New York counties of Bronx, Kings, Queens, Richmond, and Westchester. The application filing deadline for physical damage is Nov. 4, 2021. More information is available at https://www.sba.gov/local-assistance.

52nd Precinct Community Council Meeting 

The flyer for the next 52nd Precinct Community Council Meeting is attached.

Flu-Shot Event

Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, Congressman Adriano Espaillat and Councilman Eric Dinowitz are hosting a free flu-shot event on Tuesday, Sept. 14, at 74 Van Cortlandt Park S, Bronx, NY 10463-3069. There is a limited supply of flu shots and advance registration is required to receive one. Only standard dose flu shot will be available. Shots will be administered indoors and the line will form outdoors, rain or shine. Physical distancing will be enforced of at least six feet while standing in line. Face masks covering both the mouth and nose are required. Please bring your insurance cards if you have them. If you are over 65, you must bring your Medicare Part B card.

Bronx Community Board 7 September Meeting Schedule

The Bronx Community Board 7 September meeting schedule is attached and includes the dates for the various committee meetings. Dates are subject to change. Contact ibravo@cb.nyc.gov or mirosario@cb.nyc.gov for more information or to be added to the distribution list.

Bronx CB7 is also hiring a new community coordinator. See attached flyer further below for details.

NYC Health Community Advisory Board

New York City Health and Hospitals is looking for volunteers to join its community advisory board (CAB). Volunteers are sought to represent their communities in voicing their healthcare concerns. CABs raise awareness about healthcare services, and advocate for the public healthcare system. Anyone interested in getting more information or scheduling an interview can email their name and contact information to Amir Abbady at abbadya@nychhc.org.

Public Library Service Restoration

As of July 6, The New York Public Library has reopened all available locations across the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island (except those undergoing improvements or being used by the City). NYPL is offering nearly full service, including general library use and seating, unlimited browsing, laptop and computer access, and more. In-person programs and classes will also resume at some locations in July and expand over the coming months. Masks are still required for all persons in NYPL locations. Van Cortlandt Library has a number of initiatives on offer for young people. Check out their teen newsletter and more at https://www.nypl.org/locations/van-cortlandt.

Black Entrepreneurs NYC (BE NYC)

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

New Gas Meter Liability Legislation Passed 

A new law, sponsored by Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, has been passed that will strengthen State law which prohibits the illegal installation of any gas meters by expanding the law to include any installation that is not performed by a gas company or their licensed contractor. The law also expands liability for any illegally installed gas meters to include the property owner in question, in addition to the person who illegally installed the meter.

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Welcome to the Norwood News, a bi-weekly community newspaper that primarily serves the northwest Bronx communities of Norwood, Bedford Park, Fordham and University Heights. Through our Breaking Bronx blog, we focus on news and information for those neighborhoods, but aim to cover as much Bronx-related news as possible. Founded in 1988 by Mosholu Preservation Corporation, a not-for-profit affiliate of Montefiore Medical Center, the Norwood News began as a monthly and grew to a bi-weekly in 1994. In September 2003 the paper expanded to cover University Heights and now covers all the neighborhoods of Community District 7. The Norwood News exists to foster communication among citizens and organizations and to be a tool for neighborhood development efforts. The Norwood News runs the Bronx Youth Journalism Heard, a journalism training program for Bronx high school students. As you navigate this website, please let us know if you discover any glitches or if you have any suggestions. We’d love to hear from you. You can send e-mails to norwoodnews@norwoodnews.org or call us anytime (718) 324-4998.