April 12, 2020 This information is provided by The Murray Hill Neighborhood Association. We are sharing it as a service to our members. If this notice does not interest you, please disregard it. You can also find these weekly newsletters online in PDF (printable) format at www.murrayhillnyc.org in the News section, look for Weekly Eblasts 2021. Please share this email with a friend, neighbor or colleague. You can sign up for these emails at www.murrayhillnyc.org, scroll down the Also Happening column.

Editor Nancy Sheran can be contacted at [email protected].

Traffic notice Effective April 11, new toll rates are in effect at MTA Bridges and Tunnels’ nine NYC tolled crossings, including the Queens-Midtown Tunnel. Learn more about the new rates and a new Tolls NY app at new.mta.info/agency/bridges-and-tunnels/tolls-2021.

How you can help

Blood Donations Are Urgently Needed The NYC blood supply is at a very low level. If you want to donate, a nearby blood center is: New York Blood Center - Grand Central (please make an appointment) 115 East 41st Street, 800-933-2566, nybloodcenter.org

Bryant Park Corporation and Partnership are currently hiring Public Programming Assistants for the 2021 Summer season. PPAs help produce a wide range of events in two of the city's most exciting districts. More information about the position, and how to apply, are available at 34thstreet.org/about- us?mc_cid=e3eaf85ad0&mc_eid=1165e24a4c#job-openings.

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The White House’s new COVID-19 Community Corps is looking for local voices and trusted community leaders to encourage people to get vaccinated. Corps members get resources to help build vaccine confidence in their community, like vaccine fact sheets and information on how to talk to your networks about the importance of getting vaccinated. Health professionals, community organizations, faith leaders, businesses, civil rights organizations, sports leagues, and Americans from all walks of life are encouraged to join the corps at wecandothis.hhs.gov/covidcommunitycorps.

The Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is hiring! SYEP is the nation’s largest youth employment program, connecting NYC youth between the ages of 14 and 24 with career exploration opportunities and paid work experience each summer. Participants have the opportunity to explore their interests and career pathways, develop workplace skills and engage in learning experiences that help in developing their social, civic and leadership skills. By participating in structured project and work-based opportunities, NYC youth are better prepared for careers of the future.

If you’re between the ages of 14-21 and are looking for a paid summer experience, check out @NYCYouth. Applications for the 2021 Summer Youth Employment Program are being accepted. Some students will have the chance to work with the NYPD. Visit nyc.gov/SYEP to apply. Visit SYEP on social media: twitter.com/NYPDCommAffairs, instagram.com/nypdcommaffairs, youtube.com/channel/UCUJAgVlP6H7KHJkHc60vAcA, facebook.com/NYPDCommAffairs.

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Graffiti cleanup on April 10—Mission

Accomplished!

On April 10, 2021, The NYPD pitched in to clean up graffiti with the help of youth in the Explorers program and neighborhood volunteers. The Explorers program strengthens ties between young people and the NYPD through working on community projects.

Please report graffiti along with the address where you see it to [email protected] and cc [email protected] so we have a record of it. If you can, also call 311 to report graffiti so that it gets into the City statistics.

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CBS video on the graffiti cleanup https://newyork.cbslocal.com/2021/04/10/nypd-graffiti-cleanup-campaign/

NYC’s reopening

New York City is in Phase 4 of the coronavirus reopening, but some activities are still on temporary PAUSE or are open with reduced capacity due to the high community rate of coronavirus infections. Learn more about the reopening phases, micro-cluster strategy, travel advisory, testing, etc. at forward.ny.gov.

NYC coronavirus page www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/index.page

New York City reopening business guidance www1.nyc.gov/nycbusiness/article/reopening- guide.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) covid-19 page cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019- nCoV/index.html

New York State reopening page, covid rates and zones, vaccination program, covid restrictions and guidance, travel advisory, etc. coronavirus.health.ny.gov/home.

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Beginning mid-April, NYC Public School Athletic League (PSAL) will return for practice, and this will continue through the summer months. Games will be permitted in May, but no spectators will be allowed, and athletes will have to wear masks and undergo weekly testing.

Learn more about COVID-19 and NYC’s reopening at murrayhillnyc.org, including Reopening Testing Vaccinations Neighborhood restaurants, food & spirits that are open for delivery & pickup Neighborhood retail, health care (including pets) & services that are open Neighborhood houses of worship, museums, educational and cultural institutions

COVID-19 rate in zip code 10016

The positive Covid-19 rate for Murray Hill (zip code 10016) is lower than the city rate, but it is still too high.

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The above data is from the NYC Department of Health website COVID-19 tracker www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-data.page The view is the 7-day Percent Positive and Test Rate by ZIP code (for Zip code 10016). New York State COVID-19 tracker forward.ny.gov/percentage-positive-results-county- dashboard.

IMPORTANT: There is still no cure for COVID-19, it will take months to administer the vaccines for herd immunity, and there is concern about highly contagious variants, in particular the UK and NYC variants.

To stop the spread of COVID-19:

• wear face coverings when you are with people who are not in the same household • maintain distance (6 feet between people who are not in the same household) • practice good hand hygiene • stay home if sick (seek care if you feel seriously ill)

When community rates of infection are high, limit non-essential activities, travel and indoor gatherings with people who are not in your household.

NYS travel advisory coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are free; public health officials recommend getting a vaccination as soon as you are eligible. All three of the vaccinations that are offered are effective at preventing serious cases of covid-19.

The NYC Vaccine Finder site has been improved and it now tells you everywhere in NYC that vaccinations are available and the type of vaccination offered vaccinefinder.nyc.gov.

4/8/2021 (new) Walk-up vaccinations (no appointment necessary) for persons age 75+ [available at Ford Foundation Health Center, 321 E 42nd St] New York City is expanding its walk-up appointment pilot for New Yorkers over the age of 75 at city- run sites. If you are 75+, you can go to these vaccine sites and get vaccinated without an appointment. In addition, if you bring a companion who is an eligible New Yorker, they can get vaccinated at the same time. Additional, site-specific information can be found on nyc.gov/vaccinefinder. New Yorkers age 75 and older must show proof of age upon arrival at the

7 vaccination site. In order to be vaccinated, the person accompanying them must be eligible to receive vaccine due to age, employment, or other reason. As noted below, New Yorkers who are 16 and 17 must receive the Pfizer vaccine – please keep in mind that if Pfizer is not available at these vaccine sites, and you bring a companion who is 16 or 17, they will not be able to get vaccinated at the same time. The following is a walk-up vaccine site in near Murray Hill. Ford Foundation Community Health Center/Clinic, 321 E , Manhattan, 10017, (Monday – Saturday, 9am – 5pm).

See the MHNA website page Vaccinations for useful links and phone numbers on how to determine your eligibility and schedule an appointment. It is difficult to get an appointment for a vaccination in the neighborhood at this time, as the number of eligible people far exceeds the number of vaccines available.

Pharmacies participating in the vaccinations are Walgreens/Duane Reade, RiteAid, CVS. You can also set up accounts on their websites, and request alerts.

Some doctors’ offices are getting limited supplies of the vaccinations. If you prefer to be vaccinated by your primary care physician, contact your doctor.

If you are a Veteran, 60+, and currently enrolled in VA Healthcare, the Manhattan VA Medical Center is administering vaccines. Eligible Veterans must schedule an appointment by calling 1-877-877-9267.

CDC's Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated-guidance.html 3/8/2021 People are considered fully vaccinated for COVID-19 2 weeks after they have received the second dose in a 2-dose series (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna), or 2 weeks after they have received a single-dose vaccine (Johnson and Johnson [J&J]/Janssen).

Can You Catch the Coronavirus After Getting Vaccinated? April 5, 2021, aarp.org. by Michelle Crouch, AARP Odds are low, but some fully vaccinated people have been infected with the coronavirus...if you do get infected after your vaccination, your case is likely to be asymptomatic or mild, like a common cold. [Editor’s note: This happened at my mother’s senior residence. A resident tested positive after being fully vaccinated. She was asymptomatic. She has to quarantine until she has 2 consecutive negative covid tests. The lesson here is that we need to continue to take precautions until the community rate of infection declines.]

NYC Adults Vaccinated in ZIP Code 10016. The percent of NYC adult residents partially and fully vaccinated by modified ZIP Code (data obtained on 4/10/2021). Source: www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-data- vaccines.page.

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FTC Issues Consumer Tips for Avoiding COVID-19 Vaccine Scams Be on the lookout for vaccination scams. ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2020/12/ftc- issues-consumer-tips-avoiding-covid-19-vaccine-scams

All New Yorkers can get tested for coronavirus.

Sites run by New York State are free coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you. You can also check with your doctor, pharmacies and walk-in urgent care to find out if they do testing and if there will be charges. NYC free testing locations: www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/get-tested/covid-19-testing.page, call 212-COVID19, or text COVID TEST to 855-48.

For Murray Hill/Kips Bay Bellevue, First Avenue at 26th Street, (free) no appointment necessary, wait times are unpredictable and can range from no wait until about an hour, usually the wait is not long. Be sure that they set up your patient portal so that you can get your results. Test results come back in 1-2 days.

Rapid testing. The New York Forward Rapid Test Program makes rapid testing available for no more than $30 and provides participants with their results within 30 minutes. By appointment only. Find a test site coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you. (this site shows both rapid and regular test sites)

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NYC website for rapid testing (by appointment only) www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid- 19-rapid-testing.page.

Tool to check NYC Health + Hospitals waiting times to get tested testandtrace.nyc or nychealthandhospitals.org/test-and-trace/testing, tap Check Testing Wait Times on the Test & Trace Corps page. Or check @NYCHealthSystem on Twitter for updates three times a day on wait times.

The NYC Citywide Information Portal www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/resources/resources-for-new-yorkers.page and 311 portal.311.nyc.gov have created COVID-specific resource guides for New Yorkers. These resource guides contain information related to emotional well-being, rent and housing, NYCHA residents, and more. Get information and resources to help protect yourself and others from COVID-19 https://www1.nyc.gov/site/doh/covid/covid-19-main.page.

Does your school or organization need PPE? Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer has been distributing boxes and boxes of masks and sanitizer across Manhattan. If your school or organization needs PPE, contact her staffers Shawn Jean-Louis ([email protected]) or Jessica Mates ([email protected]).

Upcoming Events

TBD (originally scheduled to open on April 8) Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG) applications open An economic relief program for performing arts and entertainment venues. The U.S. Small Business Administration application portal svograntportal.sba.gov. If you plan to apply for this grant, start preparing your application now. Update: The Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application portal remains temporarily suspended through while they work to resolve technical issues with the application portal. They confirm that they did not accept any applications or distribute any funding. When a reopening date is determined, they'll provide updates in advance so that applicants have time to prepare. So many live venues and related businesses have been impacted by this pandemic and they want to ensure relief is delivered as quickly and equitably as possible. They appreciate your patience. For more information about the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant program, visit sba.gov/svogrant. The NYC Curtains Up NYC program is a partnership of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment (MOME) and NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS). It offers free technical assistance to live-performance venues, businesses, and non-profit organizations applying for SVOG and other federal

10 assistance to help them put forward the strongest SVOG application. Trained counselors are also available for virtual, one-on-one sessions. Information is available on the Curtains Up NYC webpage www1.nyc.gov/site/mome/news/fair-share-shuttered-venues-grants.page or 888-SBS-4NYC.

(several dates are available) Enrollment Now Open for NYS Citizen Public Health Training Program Cornell University’s Public Health Program has developed a free four-part online training program to help build community-led initiatives and support surrounding prevention, detection, and response in the event of public health emergencies. With two hours of content per week, each module will build up your core knowledge, skills, and abilities, along with specific “calls to action” to help you translate learning into action within your community and network. Each module will also have one or more live (and recorded) conversations with experts to share up-to-date information, and to answer key questions. Unit 1: Preventing and Addressing COVID-19 Unit 2: Healthy New York Communities Unit 3: Public Health for Community Resilience Unit 4: Public Health Preparedness Who Should Enroll? community leaders; public health leaders and volunteers; volunteers working with high risk populations; outreach coordinators; anyone who wants to help fortify their community for the future. Register at nypublichealth.cornell.edu/portal/nyspublichealth.

April 12 5pm (deadline for applications) Cultural Development Fund - Grants for nonprofit arts and cultural organizations The NYC Dept. of Cultural Affairs application is at www1.nyc.gov/site/dcla/cultural- funding/applying.page.

April 12 2 - 3:15pm Starting a Business at Age 50+ The Manhattan Chamber of Commerce teamed up with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to bring you an original webinar series that offers tools and assistance if you are looking to start, or restart, a business. Now is the time! Entrepreneurs over the age of 50 are one of the fastest-growing groups of new business owners in the nation. This session is targeted at helping encore entrepreneurs start or grow their businesses. Register at app.livestorm.co/manhattan-chamber-of-commerce/starting-a-business-at-50.

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April 12 6:30pm Community Board 8’s Voting Reform Task Force Committee Discussion of Reforming the NYC Board of Elections with State Senator Liz Krueger. For access to the Zoom meeting, sign at forms.gle/ydrLPE6ZwcA4iahX9

April 13 10am Parent Association (PA) / Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Bylaws training (zoom) An overview of the PA/PTA Bylaws. PA/PTA Bylaws are a set of rules adopted by members of the association. These rules govern the day-to-day affairs of the PA/PTA. All PA/PTAs must have bylaws; bylaws cannot be suspended and should be amended periodically to reflect current PA/PTA needs and changes to the Chancellor Regulation A-660. Interpretation will be provided in Spanish, Mandarin and French. Please see registration link below and the interpretation lines. Register at us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Wxf28IinS1Wuc8tPameGeg. Interpretation lines: Spanish Conference Line - Dial 347-966-4114 Pin: 372 148 163# Mandarin Conference Line - Dial 347-966-4114 Pin: 781 406 966# French Conference Line - Dial 347-966-4114 Pin: 770 915 500# This information will also be uploaded to Parent University

April 14 7:30pm The CUNY Graduate Center presents: Is Globalization Over? (zoom panel discussion) Is the age of globalization in the past? Hear economic experts address this question. The COVID-19 pandemic and the recent trade wars have had a severe impact on globalization, affecting supply chains, travel, technology, and more. How can we move forward with smarter and more productive policies? Delving into these issues, a panel of experts features: Chad P. Bown, senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and co-host of the podcast Trade Talks; Soumaya Keynes, trade and globalization editor for The Economist and co-host of the podcast Trade Talks; Paul Krugman, distinguished professor of economics at The Graduate Center, CUNY; and Marc Levinson, author of Outside the Box: How Globalization Changed from Moving Stuff to Spreading Ideas. Presented with the Stone Center on Socio-Economic Inequality. Register at gc-cuny.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_iZKXCRtQTkuyc0HG9k9ygg.

12 through April 14 5:30 - 7pm (many dates available) Community Conversations on the COVID-19 Vaccine Join the NYC Health Department and the Academy of Medicine in a discussion about what vaccines are, their side effects, who is currently eligible to be vaccinated, and where you can get a COVID-19 vaccine. There will be time for questions and answers to help you make an informed decision about vaccination for you and your family. Available in English/Spanish. Register at s.alchemer.com/s3/4a9f62805d42

April 15 7pm Virtual Town Hall: What Can We Do After Getting a COVID-19 Vaccination? Join State Senator Liz Krueger and Dr. Celine Gounder for a discussion of what social activities are safe to resume post-vaccination, and with whom. Dr. Gounder is an Infectious Disease Specialist and Epidemiologist at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and Bellevue Hospital, a CNN Medical Analyst, and a former Biden Transition COVID advisor. Now that we have three COVID-19 vaccines available, there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel. However, we live in a densely populated city where variants are rapidly spreading and COVID-19 cases are rising. The White House COVID-19 Response Team recently emphasized the importance of continuing to follow safety precautions, and the dangers of reopening too quickly. Now, many New Yorkers are asking: what is safe to do after getting vaccinated and what are the implications for reopening the City? Please let us know you plan to attend this Virtual Town Hall by registering at tinyurl.com/post-vaccinenyc.

April 15 amenities return Ping Pong, games, chess, art cart, and Reading Room open. Juggling continues learn more about schedules at bryantpark.org/programs/juggling. Stop by the park to see the spring flowers.

through May 17 (The IRS and NY State have extended the tax filing deadline) NYC Free Tax Prep Help Get free help preparing your taxes if you earned $68,000 or less in 2020. Learn more at www1.nyc.gov/site/dca/consumers/file-your-taxes.page. If you didn’t receive some or any of the two pandemic stimulus checks, NYC Free Tax Prep can assist with claiming the equivalent amounts as a “Recovery Rebate Credit.” Volunteer tax preparers are also needed for this site. Apply at www1.nyc.gov/site/dca/media/Become-an-NYC-Free-Tax-Prep-Volunteer.page.

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As a result of the relief act passed in December, filers can also take advantage of a one-time look-back provision, allowing them to choose to use their 2019 or 2020 income for the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Child Tax Credit, a change that benefits those who lost their job in the last year. Learn more at the IRS webpage irs.gov/credits- deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit-eitc.

April 16 Help us Keep Murray Hill Clean by joining us every third Saturday of the month Or adopt your block and clean any day! It’s a Green & Clean initiative with the Murray Hill Neighborhood Association. For more information about our Adopt-a-Block program, or to pick up a clean-up kit, while supplies last, contact [email protected]. The Murray Hill Neighborhood Association Green & Clean Committee is also looking for volunteers to help organize our campaigns and events.

April 18 6pm Live Town Hall and Q&A with the Nation's Top Vaccine Expert Join State Senator Brad Hoylman and Assembly Member Linda B. Rosenthal in a conversation with Dr. Peter Marks, the nation’s leading expert on vaccines. As the distribution of three different vaccines is ramped up, there are understandably many questions. Get your questions answered by the doctor in charge. You can join the event at facebook.com/bradhoylman.

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April 20 5 - 6pm (zoom) A Manhattan District Attorney Candidate Forum As the borough’s chief prosecutor, the Manhattan District Attorney oversees all local criminal prosecutions—including authority to choose what and how to prosecute, whether to seek bail, and in what manner plea bargains are made. The DA directs a staff of hundreds of assistant district attorneys who conduct investigations and prosecutions in dozens of specialized units. In addition, the District Attorney can seize property as part of prosecution. Moderated by Rachel Holliday Smith, Manhattan Reporter for The City. Participating Candidates: Tahanie Aboushi, Alvin Bragg, Liz Crotty, Tali Farhadian Weinstein, Diana Florence, Lucy Lang, Eliza Orlins, Dan Quart. RSVP at community.hunter.cuny.edu/roosevelt-house-pages/a-manhattan-district-attorney-candidate-forum- 04-20-21. Presented by Roosevelt House Public Policy Institute at Hunter College, City University of New York.

April 21 11am – 12pm Free virtual training by Candid: Advocacy and Lobbying in New York Special guests: John Bennett, Senior Counsel, and Kevin Roe, Associate, Simpson Thacher. As New York City faces exciting local elections, it’s vital that nonprofit leaders know how to navigate advocacy and lobbying laws. Join Candid's virtual training for an overview of New York state and federal guidelines on advocacy and lobbying. You’ll also learn how your nonprofit can encourage public policy. This program is presented in partnership with New York Lawyers for the Public Interest. Register at learning.candid.org/training/2021-04-21-virtual-advocacy-and-lobbying-in-new-york.

beginning on April 21—register now 360 Health journey We all have been seeking the secret to happiness. Here’s the secret: It’s NOT one event, one person, or one silver bullet. It’s a PERSONALIZED FORMULA of ingredients that grows as you grow. At 360 Health you create your personalized formula from a smorgasbord of nourishing choices. When you "taste" each, you have the experience, so any option that may not make your taste buds sing now, you have for the future. Each week you receive new choices to feast on. Each week you answer: What do I need NOW? What is most beneficial TODAY? Join us for the FEAST! It all begins online April 21st. Get 20% off as a MHNA member. Learn more and register at collaborativesolutions.global/360-health.

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April 25 1:30-3pm Walking Tour of Historic Murray Hill Walk around Historic Murray Hill with a knowledgeable guide and learn about its many historic landmarks, including the , The Morgan Library, the Polish Consulate and others. The tour also features information about the well-known architects who designed them and the famous people who once called this neighborhood home, including Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, J.P. Morgan and others. Find out how Mary Murray distracted the British General Howe to allow the American army to escape during the American Revolution. Tour guides will focus on the unique architectural qualities of the buildings as well as the historic evolution of the neighborhood and its preservation as a residential oasis in . $10 for MHNA members/$20 for others. Please wear a mask and practice social distancing while on this tour. Maximum of 8 people. Learn more and register for the tour. Photo: Tour guide Robin Garr leading a walking tour in 2018.

through April 25 See the exhibit at the AKC Museum of the Dog: Hollywood Dogs This new exhibition examines the history of dogs on film from the very genesis of the medium all the way through the “Golden Age of Hollywood Dogs.” It features original movie posters of some of the biggest canine blockbusters, from Lassie to Old Yeller and more. Famous animated and cartoon dogs are highlighted in the exhibition as well. They are featured in unique pieces like a celluloid from the hit movie All Dogs Go to Heaven, original storyboards from Peanuts comic strips, and more. The AKC Museum of the Dog is located at 101 , 212-696-8360. It is open Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm at 25% capacity. They recommend purchasing timed tickets at museumofthedog.org. Shop the Hollywood Dogs exhibit at the museum or at the AKC MOD online store museumofthedogstore.org/collections/hollywood-dogs.

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3-K deadline is April 30 Applications for admissions to NYC public schools 2021- 2022 school year Learn more at schools.nyc.gov and at schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll-grade-by-grade. Sign up for the DOE emails schools.nyc.gov/sign-up. You must have a MySchools account myschools.nyc/en. Contact a Family Welcome Center if you need assistance or missed a deadline schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enrollment-help/family-welcome-centers.

• The 3-K application deadline is April 30. 3-K for All will expand to the remaining sixteen community school districts in the 2021-22 school year. Learn more and apply at schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll- grade-by-grade/3k • The pre-K application deadline has passed. The DOE will work with parents who have missed the deadline. Learn more and apply at schools.nyc.gov/enrollment/enroll- grade-by-grade/pre-k

through April 30 2004–2021 Invitational Artists’ Reunion: Gallery35 Celebrates Its 17th Season! Gallery35 is pleased to announce that 18 past members are joining their 2004-2021 Invitational Artists’ Reunion. Included in the exhibit is the work of several of their “charter” members from when they first organized in the fall of 2004! First watch the video which will include a preview of the art and a short history of this “secret” gallery of Murray Hill. Then visit the virtual exhibit which features the work of 32 artists exhibiting in a variety of styles and media. Visit the exhibit at gallery35nyc.com/on-exhibit. Gallery35, 30 East 35th Street, [email protected], 917-566-0708, www.gallery35nyc.com.

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May 1 7pm St. George's Choral Society Concert & Video Release: Music of Dvořák, with Organ Mass in D: Kyrie, Sanctus, Benedictus, Agnus Dei; Songs of Nature: Melodies Steal into my Heart, Vesper Bells Ring, Slender Young Birch. Normally the Choral Society performs their spring concert at the Church of the Incarnation in Murray Hill, but they have re-imagined the presentation for their concerts during the pandemic. Tickets are $10. Purchase your tickets at stgeorgeschoralsociety.org/concerts. Video access will be emailed to you prior to the concert. The St. George’s Choral Society has been enriching lives through the universal and transformative power of music since 1817.

May 1 (application deadline) Four $10,000 grants for businesses owned by Black women and femmes Sponsored by Merchant Maverick. Apply at merchantmaverick.com.

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May 12 5pm (may be cancelled/postponed, but still posted on the ESD website, and you can register) Public zoom hearing for the Empire Station Complex near Penn Station, Draft Environmental Impact Statement This is New York State property which doesn’t have to follow local zoning laws. Details on how to join the public hearing and submit testimony: esd.ny.gov/sites/default/files/GPP- and-Draft-EIS-Meeting-Instructions-2-19-2021.pdf. Register at us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqc-6qrjMsEtBw5na484O_opVtF7dVvp5K. You can submit testimony and comments to [email protected]. Be sure to include your name and address so that they know you are a constituent. Update: The full proposal did not make it into the NY State budget for 2021-2022, and the Legislature specified that the project should be restricted to transportation improvements. Gov. Cuomo got $16 billion in the budget to renovate Penn Station, including 8 new tracks and an extension of the High Line to the Moynihan Train Hall. $1.3 billion is designated for th Empire Station project. This still allows for eminent domain, demolition, and repurposing of several blocks where potential landmark buildings, affordable housing and commercial spaces are located. Background: Governor Cuomo Advances 20-Million-Square-Foot Empire Station Complex Redevelopment Plan, In Midtown, Manhattan February 20, 2021, newyorkyimby.com, by Vanessa Londono

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Yesterday, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the board of directors of Empire State Development (ESD) had adopted the general project plan for the Empire Station Complex. The drafted plan, supported by a draft Environmental Impact Statement, would foster high- density redevelopment on eight sites surrounding the Penn Station transit hub...The plan would also bring forth various public transportation improvements, including new entrances to Penn Station and nearby public transit, and public space improvements to address open space and traffic circulation for pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles. The buildings facilitated by the plan will generate revenue for those public transit improvements in the project area...Next steps for the plan consist of a virtual public hearing on the draft Environmental Impact Statement and General Project Plan…followed by a 30-day public comment period. Related: Empire State Development Corp. press release governor.ny.gov/news/governor- cuomo-announces-adoption-general-project-plan-transformative-empire-station-complex. General Project Plan esd.ny.gov/sites/default/files/ESC-Directors-Materials-Exh02-GPP.pdf. Draft Environmental Impact Study esd.ny.gov/empire-station-complex-draft-environmental- impact-study-deis.

May 18 1-4:20pm (Webinar) Virtual Digital NY Summit: Technology and Information Toolkit for NY's Government City & State's 2021 annual Virtual Digital New York event will gather New York's information leaders from government and industry, for a dynamic program of candid discussion and thought-provoking presentations on the innovative ideas being used to improve the delivery of services to both citizens and government agencies. The program will explore new situations that have come out of COVID 19. Learn more and register at cityandstateny.com/events/virtual-digital-ny-summit.

through May 20 (weekly) Parent Guide to Remote Learning series from Rep. Adriano Espaillat and the NYC Dept. of Education (virtual event) Parents and caregivers of students with disabilities can get remote learning support. Learn more at facebook.com/RepEspaillat/posts/2754762241402432.

Important Murray Hill Election Dates for 2021 The Primary Election is very important this year! It will be a competitive election, with candidates having very different views and experiences. The Primary Election determines

20 who is on the ballot for each party. In New York State you must be registered with a party to vote in that party's primary election. February 16 Deadline to change your party enrollment for the Primary Election. Changes received on or after February 15 until seven days after the June Primary will be set aside and opened the seventh day following the June Primary and entered in the voter's registration record. Re-register to change your party enrollment. May 28 Deadline to Register to Vote in the June Primary. Re-register if your address has changed. June 15 Last Day to Apply for an Absentee Ballot for the Primary Election. June 12 - 20 Early Voting for the Primary Election June 22 Primary Election November 2 General Election Learn more, including useful links. Learn about Ranked Choice Voting, a new way of voting for local offices: Mayor, Borough President, Comptroller, City Council Members, Public Advocate. Check your registration status, poll site, and sample ballot (when it is ready) at the NYC Board of Elections vote.nyc.

through May 31 (deadline extended) (for businesses) PPP loans are open to all eligible entities An SBA-backed loan that helps businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis - Second Draw is open. Businesses must demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in gross receipts between comparable quarters in 2019 and 2020. If you are a small business owner looking for assistance in applying for financial assistance, visit NYC government website nyc.gov/ppp to access resources, which include one-on-one assistance, connections to lenders, and more. Small Business Administration (SBA) webpage on the PPP program sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief- options/paycheck-protection-program. Borrowers may be eligible for full PPP loan forgiveness if during the 8- to 24-week covered period following loan disbursement: employee and compensation levels are maintained; loan proceeds are spent on payroll costs and other eligible expenses; and at least 60 percent of the proceeds are spent on payroll costs. Learn more at sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/paycheck- protection-program/ppp-loan-forgiveness. To connect New York City’s small business owners to federal relief funds, the NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) has launched Fair Share NYC, offering free webinars, technical assistance and access to lenders to help businesses interested in applying for PPP loans. For more information, visit nyc.gov/PPP or call 888-SBS-4NYC.

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through June Baryshnikov Arts Center: Upcoming Online Presentations Performances by Bijayini Satpathy, Justin Hicks, Mariana Valencia, Holland Andrews, Anne Teresa de Keersmaeker / Rosas and more. Many are BAC Commissioned pieces specifically made for the digital space. Learn more and register at bacnyc.org/performances/upcoming- performances. BAC, 450 West 37th Street, 646-731-3200, bacnyc.org.

through June New York Music Month Extended Play! (free) Workshops and resources for musicians and music producers; learn about the music industry. Calendar nymusicmonth.nyc/schedule. Resources nymusicmonth.nyc. If your organization has music related programs or events during the months from January to June 2021 and would like to have them listed on the official New York Music Month Extended Play 2021 calendar, please fill out this form nymusicmonth.nyc/events/community/add.

August 15 (The Federal Government has extended the health marketplace open enrollment deadline) New York State’s health insurance marketplace open enrollment period The New York State of Health Official Health Plan Marketplace: health insurance plans for individuals, families and employers. With information for brokers and assistors. Learn more at nystateofhealth.ny.gov. If you would like to consult with a trained representative at no charge prior to selecting your health insurance plan, Navigator Sites are an excellent resource. The following is the contact information for a local Navigator Site: Community Service Society of New York, telephone 888-614-5400.

Recurring events

Free Vision Screenings: University Eye Center Screenings are by appointment only. All ages welcome. Infants under 18 months can have a complete eye exam done for free instead of a screening. Phone 212-938-4001 Monday - Friday (9am - 5pm) and Saturday (8:30am - 4:30pm). Location: University Eye Center, SUNY

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College of Optometry, 33 W. 42nd Street. Every month they offer free vision screenings. Call 888-601-8811 for more information or visit universityeycenter.org to learn more. See the full calendar at https://sunyopt.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/UEC_Calendar_2021_NB.pdf.

Tuesdays 2pm Webinars presented by Manhattan Chamber of Commerce: Covid-related updates for small business owners FREE. Experts will answer your questions on topics such as new government instructions or resources that are available. (weekly until further notice). Register manhattancc.org/common/Events/event_info.cfm?QID=29815&ClientID=11099&Th isPage=eventinfo.

every Monday, Wednesday & Friday Curtains Up NYC offers free webinars Review the guidelines and application process for the federal Shuttered Venue Operators Grant (SVOG), also known as Save Our Stages. Register at eventbrite.com/o/nyc- department-of-small-business-services-5423713077. Trained counselors are also available for virtual, one-on-one sessions. A program partnership of MOME and NYC Department of Small Business Services, Curtains Up NYC provides free technical assistance to live- performance venues, businesses, and non-profit organizations applying for federal assistance to help them put forward the strongest application, and, importantly, be first in line as soon as the grant applications go live. Information is available on the Curtains Up NYC webpage or 888-SBS-4NYC. We call your attention to the resources on the federal government SBA webpage.

Tuesdays Assembly Member Rebecca Seawright housing legal clinic Hosted remotely by telephone. If you need advice on housing issues, call 212-288-4607 or email their office at [email protected] to reserve a spot.

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(second Tuesday of each month) 4-6pm NYC Council Speaker Corey Johnson's Virtual Housing Clinic By appointment only. Housing attorneys will be available to speak with you about legal housing issues you have. RSVP for the Housing Clinic at docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe3qy5LrnKZKXrZN1HN824H0NYB2Ny6GFAp4b2P kqOkdGdL-w/viewform

First Monday of each month (except holidays) 1 - 3:30pm Manhattan VA Hospital Military Mondays Free Legal Clinic The attorneys are available by appointment and to walk-in clients on Military Mondays: the first Monday of every month (except holidays) at VA’s Manhattan Campus. Valuable legal services are being offered free of charge by high status NYC legal firms to Veterans at, or below poverty level. Pro bono legal services can help Veterans with legal programs relating to social security benefits, housing concerns and child support issues. In cases of immediate need or to make appointments, they recommended calling 917-661-4500 which acts both as an appointment line and a hotline to refer clients to the appropriate avenue for relief. 423 East 23rd Street 1st Floor Atrium

Ongoing Webinars for businesses: Guidelines for Reopening Businesses in NYC The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) is hosting several webinars to offer information and resources as businesses reopen. Learn about State requirements for reopening, recommendations and best practices, employee support, compliance and enforcement, resources available to help your business. Schedule of upcoming webinars (register here) eventbrite.com/o/nyc-department-of-small-business-services-5423713077.

Neighborhood events

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IMPORTANT NOTE. Due to the pandemic, large in-person indoor events are suspended until further notice. Some events will be virtual or may take place with modifications. Many museums are opening with advance ticketing, timed entry and reduced capacity. Check their websites for details.

Mondays 11am-12pm Spanish/English Story Hour for Little Ones Free. With Esther Rosado & Sandy Brooks. Interactive storytelling, movement and music in English & Spanish for children ages 1.5 - 4 years old. Build early language skills. For information contact Jill Novenski 212-683-4988 X 117 or [email protected]. ccny.org. at The Community Church of NY 40 East 35th Street (RE Classrooms)

The New York Design Center at 200 Lex Hosts virtual events: tours, discussions, online social events, courses, and more. 200 , 212-679-9500, nydc.com. See their schedule at nydc.com/events.

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AKC Museum of the Dog museumofthedog.org, 212-696-8360. The Museum of the Dog has one of the finest collections of canine-related art. The special exhibits and permanent collection combine fine arts with cutting edge technology and interpretation. The Museum of the Dog provides unique and engaging experiences for visitors of all ages. Many programs are free with the price of admission. Check their website calendar for events. Tuesday through Sunday 10am to 5pm. at AKC Museum of the Dog. Online activities for children at museumofthedog.org/events- and-education/childrens-programs. Online shopping museumofthedog.org/shop (entrance on 40th Street)

Mondays 7pm Big Apple Chorus open rehearsals (for men and women) Free and open to the public. If you can carry a basic tune you can join New York City's longest running non-classical men's (and now women's) a cappella singing group, a diverse group of all ages and backgrounds. Open rehearsals are held almost every Monday at 111 East 33rd Street (between Park & Lexington Avenues) in the Norman Thomas High School auditorium, but call or email first to confirm schedules and holidays. No reservation necessary. For more information visit bigapplechorus.org. Telephone: 646-535-2191. at the Noman Thomas H.S. Auditorium 111 East 33 Street, 2nd Floor

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Henry George School of Social Science Free classes, open to the public. Single classes and 8-course certificate programs: Principals of Political Economy. Economic Science . Money, Credit & Banking . Land Value Capture: Theory and Practice . The New Economics of the Business Cycle . Free Trade and Globalization . History of Economic Thought, and more. Students can take courses or single classes. For information email [email protected] or call 212-889-8020. Learn more about the courses and register at hgsss.org. at Henry George School of Social Science 149 East 38th Street (between Lexington & 3rd Avenue)

The Morgan Library & Museum Calendar The Morgan Library & Museum, 225 at 36th Street. MHNA members can book tickets for The Morgan's public programs (concerts, talks, films, etc.) at The Morgan's member price. This applies to all single events (except for the Orchestra of St. Luke's concerts). Tap "Member" when ordering online themorgan.org/programs, or if you are ordering by phone mention that you are a MHNA member. Call Visitor Services at 212-685- 0008 for phone orders.

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MTA Mobile Buses and Vans new.mta.info/fares/metrocard-buses-and-vans

Community Meetings

Community Board 6 website cbsix.org. Community Board meetings are open to the public, and you can express your views and concerns about various neighborhood issues.

Community Board 5 website cb5.org/cb5m.

NY City Council Hearings Hearings Calendar legistar.council.nyc.gov/Calendar.aspx This week's hearings council.nyc.gov/#hearings If you want to attend or testify at a hearing, register at council.nyc.gov/testify View hearings council.nyc.gov/livestream

17th Precinct NYPD Community Council meeting is held on the last Tuesday of every Month at 6:30pm at the Sutton Place Synagogue, 225 East 51st Street. Check their website for details. Also look for their Build the Block (neighborhood policing) meetings.

The New York Public Library offers grab-and-go service at select locations as part of their gradual reopening. Library cards are free, and enable you to take out books and e-books, attend free classes and more. Apply for a card at nypl.org/library-card.

Grab & Go Service is now available at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Libraries (formerly called Mid-Manhattan Library, 455 Fifth Ave. at 40th Street), a branch of the New York Public Library and the Kips Bay Libray branch. How to use Grab & Go Service nypl.org/blog/2020/07/08/nypl-grab-go-service, or call Ask NYPL at 917-275-6975 to place a hold.

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Tech kits for performing artists are now available through New York Public Library grab-and- go locations. Learn about the kits, which include audio- and video-recording equipment, and how to borrow one at nypl.org/research/lpa/tech-kits. Grab & Go Locations nypl.org/locations/grab-and-go.

Online events and classes

Schwarzman Building 476 (42nd St and Fifth Ave) Calendar (many events are family friendly) Check their calendar for workshops on computers and popular software such as Excel and Word, book talks, programs for kids, films, etc. Some of the Mid-Manhattan Branch programs and collections have been relocated to the Schwarzman Building.

The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Libraries (formerly called the Mid-Manhattan Library) partial reopening for Grab & Go Services, 455 Fifth Avenue (at 40th Street). The Science, Industry and Business Library (SIBL) has moved to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library Business Center. Some research materials have been relocated to the Schwarzman Building. Many free events and workshops for small businesses, individuals and families. Calendar For individuals and families: The Financial Coaching Corps program supports the financial stability of individuals and families in the community. One-on-one sessions with a financial coach provide tools and skills for money management. Learn more and sign up for a free session with a local counselor. For seniors: They can also help with questions about Medicare nypl.org/moneymatters. For businesses: Quick Consultations - quick tips and pointers on how the resources of the Library can help you and your business. For more information visit https://www.nypl.org/help/services/smallbiz/quick-consultation Learn more. nypl.org/midtown. To share feedback or ask questions, email [email protected].

Kips Bay Library (Grab & Go service available) 446 Calendar (many events are family friendly)

Grand Central Library 135 East 46th Street (between Lexington & 3rd Avenue) Calendar (many events are family friendly)

TechConnect Virtual Classes The New York Public Library's TechConnect classes are now online. TechConnect helps people of all ages develop their computer skills. Find classes on protecting your privacy online, shopping safely

29 on the web, navigating the basics of coding in HTML and CSS to build your own website, and more. See schedule and register at nypl.org/events/calendar/online?topic=4261.

Calendar of Events in Bryant Park Some in-person activities are being held. Check the Calendar for details. Bryant Park Tours. Wednesdays 11am-12pm, bryantpark.org/programs/park-tours Knowledgeable guides will share everything they know about the history of the park, how it operates today, and a range of other topics. Registration is encouraged, as tours are limited to 10 people. eventbrite.com/e/bryant-park-public-tours-registration-16061264675. Bryant Park is located between 40th-42nd Street, and between 5th & 6th Avenue, behind the Library.

CUNY Graduate Center Calendar Music-in-Midtown Free and open to the public. Free Public Events at The Gotham Center for New York History GC Presents CUNY Graduate Center 365 Fifth Avenue (between 34th and 35th Street)

Baruch College Performing Arts Some events are free.

Lawrence N. Field Center for Entrepreneurship (events & workshops relating to business) [email protected] 55 Lexington Avenue (at 25th Street) "The Tower", Suite 2-140

New York Small Business Development Center at Baruch College (NYSBDC) provides small business owners and entrepreneurs in New York with confidential business counseling, training, and business research at no cost. New York SBDC Business Training nyssbdc.org/training/listtraining.aspx [Note: You can filter on Midtown Manhattan].

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Grand Central Terminal Every day at 12:30pm Official Tour This 75-minute tour, led by Municipal Art Society docents, highlights the history, architecture and operation of the world's largest train terminal. MHNA members get the MAS member price Cost: $30 adults / $20 MAS members, seniors and more (register online) Meet at GCT's Main Concourse

Every Friday 12:30pm Walking Tour of the Grand Central Neighborhood The Grand Central Partnership offers a no-reservations-required free walking tour that provides a survey of many architecturally and historically significant sights around Grand Central Terminal. For additional information visit grandcentralpartnership.nyc/things-to- do/tours or contact [email protected]. Meet in the street-level atrium at 120 Park Avenue (southwest corner of East 42nd St and Park Avenue)

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