presented by Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance

July 17th, 2020

Quotes of Day

“The coronavirus has turned the Long Island economy upside down, causing unprecedented financial damage to county governments that are unable to close these historic budget gaps and recover by austerity measures alone. With the Long Island economy already on shaky ground, we need Congress to deliver federal assistance in order to avoid drastic and painful actions that would ultimately be borne by our first responders and taxpayers alike.” – Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone

“Local governments like ours are the tip of the spear in delivering relief and protecting residents’ health and safety during this ongoing national emergency. The alarm bells are ringing loudly for the Senate to act immediately. Nassau County is ready to emerge from the pandemic stronger than before but requires the hands of all our partners on the federal level.” – Nassau County Executive Laura Curran

A message from Vision Long Island and the Long Island Main Street Alliance…

Helping Main Street through the
Coronavirus Shutdown

Day 124 of Coronavirus Economic Shutdown –
Friday July 17th, 2020

The Coronavirus economic shutdown is on day 124.  Local businesses on Long Island are working hard to maintain a safe and healthy environment for their customers and staff.  Many downtowns have been reopening with outdoor dining and street and parking lot closures.

The LI Main Street Alliance met this week and we heard 25 updates from the field on how reopening our downtowns safely is underway.   We will profile reopening efforts on a daily basis and the first one is the Village of Farmingdale.

The “Split the Bill” program that supports local restaurants by paying half of a customers take out or dining bill will be in the Village of Hempstead on July 22nd.

Pink Tie Delivers made their 39th and 40th delivery this week in Uniondale and N. Amityville.   Stay tuned for further updates and if you want to assist contact pinktie.org.

Thankfully the SBA’s PPP program was extended to August 8th with over $100 billion still available more outreach is needed to get businesses into the program.   Efforts are underway to reach minority and women owned businesses who may not have utilized the program to date as much as others.

Folks are urged to be safe and wear masks and socially distance wherever possible in our communities with our families and friends.  No one wants this virus to spread and deal with economic and socially crippling shutdowns.

Here are some updates:

• This 3 strikes and you are closed regulation directed at NYC restaurants and bars came out from the state yesterday. The cover story today on the front page makes it appear like this is primarily a Long Island problem.

There will always be outliers, violators, bad actors and plainly clueless people in business just like in any other institution. We can choose to focus on them or lift up the more normative and responsible examples of small business behavior.

Would be good to see publicity on the vast majority of businesses who are working hard to make their customers and the public feel safe.

Through our work with dozens of local chambers and the LI Main Street Alliance we have seen virtually or in some cases in person the strong efforts made to transform floor plans, sanitize, distance customers and retrain staff all at tremendous expense to simply keep the lights on.

Let me be very clear customers and staff should wear masks, wash their hands, stay distant as much as possible but we need our local businesses that are operating safely to stay open.

We also shouldn’t judge Long Island businesses unfairly based on what’s happening in NYC.

• Executive Order 202.52 has been posted and includes the updated SLA regulations that the Governor announced yesterday. 

Yesterday, the Governor announced that all restaurants and bars statewide will be subject to new requirements that they must only serve alcohol to people who are ordering and eating food and that all service at bar tops must only be for seated patrons who are socially distanced by six feet or separated by physical barriers. Under current NYS law, only establishments that serve food are permitted to serve alcoholic beverages. The purpose of the requirement that food be sold with alcohol is to restrict congregating and mingling that arise in a bar service/drinking only environment. ​Citizens who see violations or are concerned can report complaints, including photos, to the State Liquor Authority at www.sla.ny.gov.

There is additional information and guidance posted on the SLA website to share with constituents and licensees: https://sla.ny.gov/guidance-requirement-licensees-premises-service-privileges-serve-food-alcoholic-beverages.

• Food service guidance for bars and restaurants can be found on the NY forward website under phase 3.

• Kudos to the Town of Babylon for investing $100,000 towards public art in coordination with the Babylon Council of the Arts. A range of arts and beautification projects will emerge from this investment.  Check it out.

• Good to see the Federal Reserve amend their regulations to allow not-for-profits with 10 or more employees access to their lending program after public feedback.

The Main Street Lending Program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is intended to enhance support for small and mid-sized businesses by offering 4-year loans to companies employing up to 10,000 workers or with revenues of less than $2.5 billion. For more information, visit this website

• NYS Comptroller Tom Dinapoli has put out this op-ed that speaks to the need to address food insecurity due to the rising demand at food pantries and the increased enrollment in SNAP and other feeding programs.

• The Nassau County Health Department has released new guidelines on getting a test for COVID-19 or getting retested if you have been tested before.  Testing is opened to anyone who wants a test, but there needs to be a reason.  For example, you have had contact with a known case, have symptoms, or think you’ve been exposed to the virus.  Front line workers and first responders have priority for all testing.  Constituents are urged to discuss testing with their health care providers or call the Department of Health’s Coronavirus call center at (516) 227-9500, with any questions.

• The Emergency Rent Relief program that was passed in the NYS legislature and that was signed into law by Governor Cuomo is now in effect and qualifying New Yorkers may apply through New York State Homes and Community Renewal at https://hcr.ny.gov/RRP Eligible households must meet income requirements and must have lost income during the period of April 1 to July 31. Applications must be submitted by July 30, and HCR will prioritize eligible households with the greatest economic and social need

• The Suffolk County Legislature will meet on Tuesday 7/21/2020 at 9:30am Here is information on how to access that meeting virtually: www.scnylegislature.us/publicportion.

Testifying at a 2:00 p.m. Public Hearing via Zoom: Members of the public can testify at public hearings scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on July 21st through Zoom. For a list of hearings and to sign up to speak, fill out the online form at www.scnylegislature.us/publichearing.

Recording Testimony Over the Phone: Parties can call (631) 853-3685 and leave a three-minute message about any topic of concern and specific resolutions being considered by lawmakers. Residents should include their name as well as whether they are speaking about a specific resolution.

Sending Testimony By Email: Comments may be submitted in writing by emailing Clerk.Legislature@suffolkcountyny.gov.

Sending Testimony by Regular Mail: Comments may be mailed to the attention of the Clerk’s Office at the Suffolk County Legislature, William H. Rogers Building, 725 Veterans Memorial Highway, Smithtown, NY 11787.

All meetings will be livestreamed at www.scnylegislature.us. Questions about how to participate or submit testimony should be directed to the Suffolk County Legislature Clerk’s office at 631-853-6351

• LI Town Supervisors and County Executives joined LI’s Congressional delegation in call for federal funding local government in the Heroes Act.

• Albany legislators are headed back to session next week to tackle mostly very local bills.  Will be interesting to see them get back to the business of assisting in the management of the State.  Stay tuned for updates.

• More information about the COVID19 Travel Advisory and included states can be found here: https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory#restricted-states​.

• Lots of folks are out of work due to the shutdown but it is good to know that there are some jobs available. NYS has a website with 12,500 listings.

This may not immediately address the up to 375,000 projected to be out of work but it is a start and for friends, family members or colleagues that are looking they should check out this site.

• Folks have been asking about the status of reopening the schools.  Below is the Pre-K to Grade 12 school guidance. It is posted on the NY Forward website under Phase 4
​
Posted at New York Forward – Phase 4: https://forward.ny.gov/phase-four-industries

Pre-K to Grade 12 Schools: READ AND AFFIRM DETAILED GUIDELINES

• New York State Education Department offers guidance on school reopening; social-emotional well-being is stressed

On Monday (July 13) the New York State Education Department (NYSED) made a presentation to the Board of Regents on reopening. Its guidance was informed by five forums held around the state as well as by input from P-12 program offices. The state

is so diverse that there won’t be any “one size fits all” model, according to NYSED. But here are a few of the important points

• “Social-emotional well-being must be schools’ and districts’ top priority in supporting school transition, not at the expense of academics, but in order to create the mental, social and emotional space for academic learning to occur.” (See image of slide above right.)

• Schools should develop plans for schedules that include in-person instruction, remote instruction and hybrid instruction.

• Schools must know the level of internet access all students and teachers have in their homes and provide devices and internet access to those who don’t have sufficient broad-band capability.

• Schools must [boldface by NSYED] instruct staff on signs of illness, develop plans to maximize social distancing and provide necessary supplies for handwashing and disinfecting.

Click here to view the full 27-page presentation. According to NYSED, a guidance document will be disseminated today, and school district reopening plans must be submitted by Friday, July 31, 2020.

Interim Guidance for In-Person Instruction at Pre-K to Grade 12 Schools during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency

• Here is Newsday’s story on the economic report showing huge job losses impacting our local communities.  Newsday’s Cecilia Dowd interviews N. Bellport civic leader and LI Main Street Alliance member Regina Hunt that makes the impact of the shutdowns more real. Check it out.

• US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is calling for $32 billion in aid nationally for our transit systems that will help fill the budget hole for the MTA/LIRR

• It is also important for people to also understand the impact to local governments and services that folks rely on.

Here is a report from NYS Comptroller Tom Dinapoli on the fiscal challenges facing our local municipalities.

• So after three months most have received their stimulus check. We hear mixed things about the timing for others but mostly not a quick process.

Some are questioning the timing on a second stimulus check here is a timeline that could be anyone’s best guess.

• In a surprise to no one the combination of a public health crisis, the crippling economic crisis brought on by the shutdown for the vast majority of americans who are middle class, working class or poor, the adjoining social crisis of mental health, domestic abuse, drug, alcohol use, isolation, fears and add the racial divisions that have centuries old roots have brought us to a place where we are not only divided but intensely angry.

With all that said folks can’t speak about anything on any side in public for fear of reprisal so it all gets repressed. Privately you even have to be careful who you talk to and what about due to the broadening cancel culture.

This article has some good tips which includes unplugging yourself from national and social media and other sources of division for at least parts of your day. I would suggest in this climate that you incorporate anger management in your daily life just like you spend time eating healthy, working out etc it is just as important if not more.

• For months through the Coronavirus shutdown everyone has talked about short and long term strategies including stay at home orders, all sorts of distancing, masks, quarantines, varying medical treatments and pending vaccines. No one has been talking about herd immunity which may be very important if there is a second wave. Check out the article in the NY Times.

• So Main Street leaders were happy to see a Phase 4 opening this week which included museums, historical sites and aquariums among other related uses. Gyms and movie theatres that were originally part of Phase 4 opening are on hold with no guidance or timeline yet issued.

Eleven Town Supervisors have sent letters and/or held press conferences requesting NYS to allow gyms, movie theatres put back into Phase 4 openings. The gyms and movie theatres can be managed regarding occupancy restrictions and hopefully can open soon.

Phase 4 guidance has been posted in the NY Forward website: https://forward.ny.gov/phase-four-industries
– Phase 4 includes:

Higher education: including but not limited to community and junior colleges, universities, graduate and professional schools, medical schools, and technical schools. ​

Low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment​: outdoor zoos, botanical gardens, nature parks, grounds of historic sites and cultural institutions, outdoor museums, outdoor agritourism, local agricultural demonstrations and exhibitions; and other similar institutions/activities. ​

Low-risk indoor arts and entertainment: indoor museums, historical sites, aquariums, and other related institutions or activities​.

Media production: “media production activities” encompass all activities undertaken in motion picture, music, television, and streaming productions on set, on location, or at any production or recording site. ​

Check out the story in the LI Times.

• Thanks to the Senate and the House working in a bipartisan manner and the President signing the extension the SBA’s Payroll Protection Program is back up and running until August 8th.

There is still over $130 billion in the program so rumors that this round is out of money are unfounded.

There are new rules which changed and are more flexible to accommodate local businesses regarding the expenditures of the funds from 8 weeks to 24 weeks.

The other rumor is if your bank didn’t process you earlier (like many banks and you were not alone) is that you are not eligible or can’t apply. That is also unfounded and there are banks and other services that are processing now.

There are now materials in spanish which was another barrier for many local businesses.

As we know outreach and clear information on this program has been an ongoing problem.

Vision and the LI Main Street Alliance have had a number of webinars on this program and done other direct outreach and have been amazed that as many as 1/3 of the local businesses knew nothing about it.

Here is a Q and A that is helpful for folks who are not familiar with the program or the new rules.

If folks are having problems accessing the program please reach out and we can put you in touch with folks who can help.

• In a measure that would help downtown restaurants it seems the majority of NY’ers want to see the temporary law allowing takeout of alchoholic beverages made permanent. Check out the poll.

• Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York State will decide whether schools will reopen in the fall during the first week of August. New York State is now consulting with stakeholders on guidance, which will be finalized on July 13. Plans to reopen schools are due on July 31.

• Survey shows New Yorkers want in-person schooling to resume this fall

“A screen cannot take the role of the teacher”–that was one of the top-rated “thoughts” for Long Island in a recent crowdsourcing of ideas regarding how community members feel about returning to school in the fall. Using the virtual conversation tool Thoughtexchange, the BOCES statewide gathered input from more than 60,000 participants.

Overall, in New York State, these participants were mostly parents (67%) or teachers (33%). And one of the most important issues: “[they] felt it was important for in-person schooling to be held in the fall, even if it is not full-time.” The reasons included that parents aren’t trained to teach and that teacher/student and peer interactions are an important component of learning.

Other top areas of concern: cleaning and disinfecting policies and dissatisfaction with remote learning. When Long Island’s results were looked at separately, the top themes were the same. Specifically, high-rated comments included: “All classrooms should have cleaning products, tissues and hand sanitizers. We need to continue practicing clean hygiene;” and “Students need to interact and move. Not sit in one room all day.”

For more details about the data that was collected, and to download the state-wide report, visit the Nassau BOCES website.

• Rent Relief is available through The Emergency Rent Relief Act of 2020 signed by Governor Cuomo has made $100 million available to assist low-income renters in New York impacted by the pandemic through the COVID Rent Relief Program. HCR will host a webinar on July 9 to explain the program, detail the application process and answer questions. You must register to attend. Please register by emailing NewsFromHCR@nyshcr.org

• Please see the below information on Travel Advisories. Delaware, Kansas, and Oklahoma have been added to the incoming travel advisory. For additional information about the travel advisory, please see the links below:​

COVID-19 Travel Advisory Webpage (https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory)

Interim Guidance on Travel Advisory (https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2020/06/interimguidance_traveladvisory.pdf)

Interim Guidance for Professional Sports on Advisory (https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2020/07/professional-sports-travel-advisory-guidance.pdf)

Interim Guidance for Medical Appointments/Treatment on Advisory (https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2020/07/medical-and-travel-advisory-20-final.pdf)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Advisory (https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2020/07/nys-covid-travel-advisory-faq.pdf)

• All sorts of questions and confusion about the NYS travel advisories have emerged.   Thankfully there is now a hotline that can assist as well as a website to provide clearer guidelines.

Questions about the travel advisory can be director to the NYS Coronavirus hotline. Phone: 1-888-364-3065,  https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory

•Deadline on evictions extended:

Governor Cuomo signed the Tenant Safe Harbor Act, sponsored by Sens. Hoylman and Krueger and Assembly member Dinowitz, prohibits evictions of eligible tenants if any part of the county is still shut down by government as a result of the Coronavirus.

•Take your kids out of the house….

An article in the New York Times explained the importance of outdoors and children’s mental health: “Research has shown that access to green space is linked to a child’s well-being. For example, adding greenery to school play yards has been shown to increase prosocial behavior in kids. They help, cooperate, comfort and share more; the loss of access to this greenery has the opposite effect.”

Reporter Meg St-Esprit McKivigan interviewed parents in New York, California and Chicago who observed changes in their children’s behavior when COVID-19 trapped everyone indoors. And she talked to a psychologist who told her that “Prioritizing time in nature, exercise, and even some unstructured downtime is analogous to prioritizing our children’s mental health, which is more important now than ever.”

Read more.

•Suffolk Transit changes – EFFECTIVE JUNE 29, 2020

Suffolk County Transit will resume front door boarding and fare collection on all buses.

Passengers are encouraged to pre-pay their fares using the FastFare app, which is available for download through Google Play and the Apple App Store.

Pursuant to Governor Cuomo’s Executive Order, face coverings must be worn when onboard the bus.
https://www.sct-bus.org/

•We had a great call with the LI Main Street Alliance this week where we had over 30 different communities represented on the call that are working on reopening safely and looking for resources to help their downtown areas.  Kudos to Ms. Huey-Min Chuang Senior Director of Business and Economic Development of Empire State Development for presenting the New York Forward loan fund.

Please find attached the flyer that can be shared on the New York Forward Loan Fund. The NYFLF is a new economic recovery loan program aimed at supporting New York State small businesses, nonprofits, and small landlords as they reopen after the COVID19 outbreak and NYS on PAUSE. 

The application for NYFLF is available at this link: nyloanfund.com

Additional resources, such as PowerPoint presentation and FAQ can be found at: https://esd.ny.gov/nyforwardloans-info

• There is a new bill in the NYS legislature that will enforce mask wearing to protect public health and allows businesses and other activities to remain open. LIBN

• If you’re looking for a fun activity for your child this summer, consider join this year’s Summer Reading Program! This year, libraries across the state will be offering a selection of exciting online and virtual programming – special events, reading challenges, fun activities, and more – throughout the summer months from June through August. To sign up for Summer Reading and find out what YOUR local library has planned for summer reading and summer learning programs, check out your local library’s website.

• La Fuerza Unida Community Development Corp. provides economic growth opportunities to low-income, minority and women owned enterprises. It serves Nassau and Suffolk counties. For information about SBA disaster relief, visit https://lafuerzacdc.org/ or call or text 516-666-5071, or email Covid19@Lafuerzacdc.org.

• Through funding from the federal Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) program, the Economic Opportunity Council of Suffolk, Inc. is offering financial assistance to eligible individuals and families impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The funding originates from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

Financial hardships/need include mortgage assistance, rental assistance, help with utility bills, food costs, transportation, funeral costs, medical expenses, etc. Applicants’ household income must not exceed 200 percent of poverty guidelines. 

For information on how to apply, please contact: Halim Kaygisiz at hkaygisiz@eoc-suffolk.com or (631) 241-2119.

• Island Harvest has launched a free food package distribution program specifically to help out our seniors in need. Food packages include items like cereal, rice, pasta, beans, canned vegetables and fruits, canned proteins, cheese, shelf-stable milk, juice, peanut butter, and soup. To qualify, you must be 60 or over, a NY State resident (US & Non-US citizens are eligible) and verify your income. To see if you qualify, contact marilyn@islandharvest.org or call 631-873-4775

• There is a website that provides training materials for Certified Nursing Assistants, and one of the skills that CNAs must demonstrate properly before being certified is handwashing.

It is a good idea to put together a handwashing guide page on our website using material from CNA training resources to help better educate the public on the proper steps for handwashing to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

• Safely accessing public transportation is critical in getting back to work and back to normal.   Here is a guide from the NY Public Transit Association on the safety measures they are undergoing.   Important for public to know what they are doing to help make riders have a safe experience.

• Great news that allows support in the form of grants and loans for truly small businesses with under 50 employees. Kudos to Nassau IDA’s Richie Kessel, other IDA’s and the many folks who supported this change in policy. Vision and the LI Main Street Alliance provided letters of support on this. Chalk this up as a victory for the little guy!

• Vision was a co-sponsor of a transit chat with US Senator Chuck Schumer who committed to securing $4billion from the federal government to assist the MTA and spoke of his efforts to combat fare hikes and support all forms of transit and walkability in general.  Check out the video of the session.

• One new resource was previewed from John Keating, Director of Economic Development at PSEG for a new grant program for local Main Streets. This grant will help local businesses build their outdoor venues for dining.

PSEG Long Island is providing grants of up to $5,000 to reimburse the purchase of materials including, but not limited to: outdoor seating, tables and lighting; durable safety materials; signage.

Funding is limited and is available first come, first served. Eligible grantees include Chambers of Commerce and Business Improvement Districts and will consider grants of higher amounts on a case-by-case-basis.

This is a great opportunity for local businesses to take advantage of and kudos to PSEG Long Island for helping local during this difficult time: https://www.psegliny.com/inthecommunity/revitalization/chambers

PSEG-LI also launched a Small Business First program to provide upwards of $2,500 in rebates to upgrade to more efficient lighting, which can help lower electric bills.  Learn more about the program and how to apply at the PSEGLI Website

 • The New York State Department of Financial Services has reached an agreement with New York’s credit reporting industry to help New York consumers facing hardship caused by COVID-19 to avoid unjustified negative impacts on consumers’ credit reports. DFS also urges New York State-regulated financial institutions to furnish credit information in ways that minimizes negative impacts on consumers.

As part of this agreement, credit reporting agencies will:

Provide one free credit report each month through November 2020; inform financial institutions of procedures that allow institutions to report missed or delinquent payments in ways that minimize the impact on consumers’ credit histories and credit scores; apprise financial institutions of their credit reporting obligations under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which provides relief for consumers; and communicate with financial institutions about credit reporting that may not comply with the requirements of the CARES Act.

• Some good news – for all independent contractors, gig workers etc the SBA’s EIDL loan applications are back open and a small portion of the loan is a grant that does not have to be paid back. Check it out here.

• The LIRR unveiled a new app for train times with new features.   You can check a demonstration out here.  The fully revamped app – which still contains all your original TrainTime features – is now available for a free download through the App Store

• There are now over 800 locations statewide where New Yorkers can get diagnostic testing, and in order to make sure more New Yorkers are getting tested, Governor Cuomo has further relaxed the criteria for who can get a test and created some helpful online resources. 

If you are concerned you might need a test, but you’re not sure if you meet the criteria, take the online self-assessment at https://covid19screening.health.ny.gov/ 

To locate a testing site near you, visit https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/find-test-site-near-you and enter your address to view a list and a map view of the nearest testing sites. The state has also partnered with Google Maps to display testing site results when you search “COVID testing near me” on Google Maps.

Please remember you must always schedule an appointment to get a COVID-19 diagnostic test by calling 1-888-364-3065 or your healthcare provider.

• Nassau has partnered with the Nassau County IDA’s sister organization, LEAC and Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin, to introduce the “Boost Nassau” initiative which launched two new programs specifically designed to support small businesses and non-profits during this challenging time:

– Small Business Recovery Loan Program for eligible small businesses, non-profits, and MWBEs.

– PPE Kit Giveaway for eligible small businesses and non-profits, fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis.
– Apply for both programs at: www.boostnassau.net

• The Governor also announced he would issue an Executive Order allowing commercial buildings to conduct temperature checks for anyone entering the building as office workers begin to return to the workplace. That executive order can be found here.

• If you’re a small business owner who offers paid family leave and medical leave to your employees, and you have an employee unable to work due to the coronavirus, you may be entitled to receive a credit in the full amount of the required sick leave and family leave. Learn more at go.usa.gov/xVwTS

• Nassau County began accepting applications from small businesses for free face masks, hand sanitizer and other personal protection equipment. Owners of businesses that have been open at least one year, have 20 or fewer employees and gross revenue of less than $3 million are eligible for the free “PPE starter kits” from the county. Each kit comes with a no-contact digital forehead thermometer, five face shields, 400 face masks, 100 pairs of gloves, 1,800 sanitary wipes and two gallons of hand sanitizer. The one-page application may be found at boostnassau.net.

• We would like to make you all aware of the Suffolk County Small Business COVID -19 Supply Request Information. You can find the form here.

Submission of this form is an agreement with Suffolk County that this business will use the Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) provided by Suffolk County only for the purpose of addressing the threat to the public health posed by Covid-19 in compliance with State Executive Orders and guidance for reopening businesses. PPE provided will consist of two reusable cloth face coverings per employee and one gallon of hand sanitizer per business/organization.

• The New York State Liquor Authority has posted new guidance on outdoor expansion of licensed premises. This is following the Governor’s early announcement that outdoor dining is permitted in phase two of reopening.​ SLA guidance can be found at this link.

The Town of Babylon sets aside a $2.5 million fund for its local small businesses.

• The Nassau County BAR Association is accepting emails for COVID-19 related legal inquiries. Emails should be sent to Covidhelp@nassaubar.org.  Member volunteers are helping residents with a variety of issues, especially landlord/tenant and employment.  They can also help answer questions about Federal Small Business Administration loans. 

• As we begin to slowly reopen our communities, it’s important that no New Yorker feel unsafe at work or be put into harm’s way unnecessarily. If your employer doesn’t make appropriate accommodations for your safety, for the safety of the public, or fails to provide you with PPE to do your job safely, you’re urged to call the state coronavirus hotline at 888-364-3065.

 Like us on Facebook

 Follow us on Twitter

 Watch us on YouTube

Join us on LinkedIn 

View us on Instagram 

Visit our website 

Downtown Farmingdale Restaurants Adjusting to Outdoor Dining

From casual picnic tables with colorful beach umbrellas, to elegant wedding style tents dotting parking lots and sidewalks, Long Island’s outdoor dining has not only taken root, it’s thriving.

Local downtown restaurants and businesses have been hit hard from the COVID-19 shut down, and make no mistake, they are still struggling. It wasn’t until June 10th, when Phase 2 began, were restaurants permitted to once again greet their customers, but in the form of outdoor dining, with strict spatial limitations.

The Village of Farmingdale has met these challenges head on. Farmingdale Mayor Ralph Ekstrand, during Vision Long Island’s 8th Annual Complete Streets Summit this past month, discussed some challenges of outdoor dining. He identified specific challenges in his community, including maintaining walkability and negotiating complicated state guidelines.

“Restaurants tend to place tables onto sidewalks,” Mayor Ekstrand explained. “Restaurants are allowed to use loading zones and are encouraged to work with their neighbors to utilize additional space.” The Mayor stressed, “Safety is number one.”

To handle this issue, the Village created a plan for each restaurant, identifying the number of tables allowed and the location. The Village created two plans for each business, one if Main Street is open, and one if it is closed.

Village of Farmingdale restaurants, and patrons, have embraced open air dining. Below is a list of those restaurants offering outdoor dining:

317 Main
317 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 512-5317

Alibi (Rear outdoor dining)
230 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-8622

Caracara Mexican
354 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 777-2272

Charlotte’s Yogurt & Desserts
294 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-3595

Chiddy’s CheeseSteaks
191 Main Street, Farmingdale (631) 609-1425

Chocolate Duck (Open, pick up and Chairs nearby)
310 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 249-0887 

Croxley’s
190 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 293-7700

Dark Horse Tavern
273 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-6560

Dominican 4
305 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-6005

Flux Coffee
211 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-8979

Frankie’s Eastside Pizza
313 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 502-1304

Grecian Grill
261 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 753-1260

High Tide Taco
257 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-5255

La Villetta
968 Fulton Street, Farmingdale (516) 752-0445

Le Petit Café
314 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 465-9660

Library Café
274 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 752-7678

Lithology
211A Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 962-0585

Main Street Pizza Company
302 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 777-3600

Nutty Irishman
323 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 293-9700

Palmers American Grille
123 Fulton Street, Farmingdale (516) 420-0609

Republic (Rear outdoor dining)
217 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 293-4400

Sobol
155 b Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 588-0500

That Meetball Place
206 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-8880

Tre Scalini
196 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 249-0140

Vespa Italian Kitchen
282 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-8542

Vinoco East
223 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 927-8070

Vintage
185 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 586-8833

Whiskey Down Diner
252 Main Street, Farmingdale (516) 927-8265

Local Elected Officials Call for US Senate to Pass COVID-19 Assistance

Long Island elected officials ranging from Town Supervisors to County Executives to a US Congressman, gathered for a bipartisan press conference earlier this week to call on Senate Majority leader Mitch McConnell to pass legislation for federal aid to state and local governments hit hard by COVID-19.

“The coronavirus has turned the Long Island economy upside down,” said Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone, “causing unprecedented financial damage to county governments that are unable to close these historic budget gaps and recover by austerity measures alone. With the Long Island economy already on shaky ground, we need Congress to deliver federal assistance in order to avoid drastic and painful actions that would ultimately be borne by our first responders and taxpayers alike.”

The press conference took place exactly two months after the House-passage of the Heroes Act, which the Senate has yet to pass.  This previous legislation included priorities which will bring much needed aid to New York’s families and local governments:

1. A special fund of $49 billion distributed to States based on “rate of infection.”  This fund would be especially helpful to local school districts.

2. The elimination of the cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions to bring aid to

3. $87.5 billion for municipalities with more than 50,000 residents and $37.5 billion for municipalities with under 50,000 residents.  This would help every municipality from the currently devastated counties to the smallest villages.

“Local governments like ours are the tip of the spear in delivering relief and protecting residents’ health and safety during this ongoing national emergency,” said Nassau County Exective Laura Curran.  “The alarm bells are ringing loudly for the Senate to act immediately. Nassau County is ready to emerge from the pandemic stronger than before but requires the hands of all our partners on the federal level.”

Aid will be needed in the coming months as local governments continue to struggle with the ongoing pandemic and the economic pain it has wrought.  Local governments in particular have been hit hard as revenue has dried up in the past few months.

“Towns and Villages have been on the front lines, providing essential services directly to the residents from the very beginning of this pandemic,” said Smithtown Supervisor Edward Wehrheim.  “We’ve been hard at work, from everyday services such as waste and recycling removal, animal rescue and public safety to providing meal delivery, and PPE assistance during the pandemic. All the while, we’ve lost revenues from the commercial and retails industry and are certain to see massive cuts in State funding coming. We are truly grateful for our public servants at the federal level, who have been working together, to advocate for direct-to-local government funding. This aid will make us whole, which in turn allows relief for the taxpayers who are desperately trying to piece their lives back together. In short, this funding would directly benefit the residents of our communities, prevent layoffs and allow us to continue serving our communities without raising taxes or fees.”

Brookhaven Town Residents call for Overdue Repaving of Middle Country Road

For Brookhaven Town residents who live on Middle Country Road, the time is long past for the state to repave the pothole-ridden roadway in their neighborhood.  Brookhaven officials along with civic leaders from Ridge, Middle Island, Coram and Gordon Heights say that the work is years overdue at this point but that the project is not scheduled to begin until next year. 

“We’re patient, but we’re not that patient,” said E. James Freeman, president of the Gordon Heights Civic Association. “You’re talking about people who are extremely forgiving about things, but you get to a point where you can’t be forgiving.”

A previous letter to Suffolk Legislator Sarah Anker and assurances to Brookhaven Councilman Michael Loguercio had promised that work would begin this year.  However, it was later discovered that the project was marked to begin in 2021, at which point the DOT denied promising a 2020 start date. 

This is just one example of the challenge with bigger government agencies, which is that often there is little to no communication with local leaders, and sometimes a lack of focus on smaller projects that are essentially just restoring things to a state of good repair.

Gail Lynch-Bailey, president of the Middle Island Civic Association, expressed annoyance that the state continues to dither on the project.  She pointed to the reconstruction of Route 347 as an example of the NYS can do with a project when it has the needed funds and design.

“That’s not even what we’re asking for,” she would go on to say. “We’re just looking for something where we can drive through safely.”

Vision has worked and planned with all of these communities on the Middle Country Renaissance Project.  The Town took their action to improve the local zoning many years ago, and projects have been approved or are now taking shape.  The state now has an opportunity to partner with these communities and get this project moving.

You can read more at Newsday.

PinkTie Delivers to Roosevelt, Hempstead, and East Patchogue / North Bellport

Vision was out with the Pink Tie Delivers team last week for three stops in Roosevelt, Hempstead and East Patchogue/N. Bellport, each including food and a financial donations.  Each of these visits brings an awareness of not only the needs facing working members of our communities, but a deep appreciation for the ongoing work of local volunteers who assist without fanfare.

Our first stop took us back out to Memorial Presbyterian Church in Roosevelt where Dana Faision, Veta Bisserup and Joanne Harrison-Smith have been running the pantry.  We made our delivery after a recent distribution so their shelves were pretty bare, but will be refilled before the next line of community members.  Their hard work is truly commendable.

The next stop was the Hempstead Chamber of Commerce in the Village Hempstead.  Chamber President Clariona Griffith has been working with many local businesses to feed a couple of groups of homeless folks who have been sleeping on local downtown streets.

The final stop was to our friends at the Journey Church in East Patchogue, North Bellport. Civic leader Regina Hunt was there with both Pastor Dottie Bonventre and her team, who provided a powerful prayer that inspired us all for the day and beyond.

It is important to hear the updates of what’s happening in these and many other communities as a reminder of the continued work that is needed to help our neighbors.  The Pink Tie Delivers team for these drops included 1st Equity Title, Late Night Chauffers, Trinity Solar, Vision LI and Keller Williams.

For more info on how you can take part in the doorstep donation program or join the Delivers Team check out pinktie.org.

MTA’s Congestion Pricing Delayed

In a move that’s being blamed on the Trump administration’s delays, the MTA has announced that they will be delaying a congestion pricing plan for New York City for at least a year.

The plan was initially to be implemented in the busier parts of Manhattan and would have charged a fee for motorists.  Planned to go into effect at the beginning of 2021, the plan required approval from the federal government.  But the feds have dawdled, slow-waling the process and causing the plan to be pushed back.

“We’ve literally hired the consultants,” said MTA’s chief development officer Janno Lieber in a recent interview.  “We’ve designed the systems and the cameras and so on that are going to be implemented, but we just can’t move forward without the Trump Administration’s action.  It’s not complicated, but it does need to be set in motion. The software needs to be created and put into effect, and that’s what takes a little time.”

The delay of the fees will also imperil the MTA’s $51.5 billion 2020-2024 capital plan, which was counting on the estimated $15 billion in revenue from the pricing plan.  The capital plan, meant to modernize the City’s mass transit system, has been on hold since March due the coronavirus pandemic.

While many Long Island commuters were looking forward to the improvements that revenue from the congestion pricing would produce, many Long Islanders, along with outer borough residents and business owners, were not looking forward to paying the fee.  No matter your feelings, there will be at least another year before you will need to do so.

You can read more at the NY Daily News.

Port Washington Installs New Crosswalks

Vision was out in downtown Port Washington with our friends David Isaacs from Enid Flint, Steve Normamdin from NV5, and contractors from the Possilico Organization to see updated crosswalk materials that are a great alternative to simple paint.

The process included the heating of preformed thermoplastic material using an infrared heating system, as well as stamping a wire grid with a vibratory compactor and photos of some of the completed crosswalks. 

You can check out the treatment at Port Washington Blvd. and Vanderventer Ave. in the village.

As there are negotiations for a Federal Infrastructure Bill, NYS spending on roadway improvements, and more Long Islanders walking and biking, we are hopeful these types of improvements can become the norm.

NYMTC Seeking Input on Next Regional Transportation Plan

Our region is facing tough challenges. Despite that, considering the future is as important as ever for the region’s vitality.

The New York Metropolitan Transportation Council (NYMTC) is working on the next Regional Transportation Plan for the diverse region of New York City, Lower Hudson Valley, and Long Island. Let’s work together to explore and plan for the future of transportation in the region.

There are many opportunities to participate.  Please join in to help keep our region Moving Forward.

Join a Virtual Workshop – Your Opinion Counts!

NYMTC will host an identical afternoon and evening session for each of the regions.  The Long Island specific workshops will be:

Each workshop will have a presentation and interactive question sessions. It is suggested that participants join by desktop or laptop computer.

Meeting materials will be available upon request for those without computer access; please phone 212-383-7203 for assistance.

Ways to Get Involved:

• Attend a virtual workshop – See dates above. Can’t attend a workshop? No problem! Workshops will be recorded and posted on the NYMTC website (https://www.nymtc.org/planmovingforward/).
• Participate online –  Visit the project website to access our community engagement platform and participate in the interactive exercises (https://www.planmovingforward.com/). Interactive exercises are available in English, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese (traditional and simplified).
• Share your comments – Do you have questions, comments or ideas? Submit them at the project website or (www.nymtc.org/planmovingforward/Contact) call at 212-383-7203.
• Follow us on social media – See project videos, posts, and information by following @NYMTC on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.

‘Zoom’ to New Heights with Project Independence

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the Project Independence and You radio show wanted to continue to provide timely and important information to the senior residents of North Hempstead, caretakers and service professionals. Previous guests and topics included Supervisor Judi Bosworth, Congressman Tom Suozzi, Latest Tips on Frauds & Scams, Financial Concerns surrounding COVID-19 Pandemic, NY State Attorney General Scam Awareness and From Crisis to Calm Coping in an Ever Changing Normal. After listening to an informative guest, be sure to listen to the Talk of the Town to find out about updates, programs and what’s going on around Town!

The radio show uses the Zoom platform to organize and coordinate the shows, which is then broadcasted during the normally scheduled time. Project Independence and You airs on Fridays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Tune in on WCWP 88.1 FM or wcwp.org or download the app! Past episodes are available at northhempsteadny.gov/pi-home.

Upcoming Schedule:

•July 24 – NYS Senator Anna Kaplan to discuss NYS Senate Updates in regards to Covid-19 Pandemic
•July 31 – Nassau County Executive Laura Curran to discuss Nassau County Updates in dealing with COVID-19 Pandemic and Moving Forward

Don’t forget to listen to Talk of the Town where they discuss everything that is happening in the Town and in the World. Learn about new programs, events and exciting initiatives.

Click here to learn more.

2021 Long Island Arts Grant Workshop Schedule Released

The New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) Decentralization Grants help to support:

·     Individual artists in the creation of new work
·     Teaching artists with in depth opportunities for students and life long learners to create
and experience the arts
·     Arts and cultural organizations with community based arts & cultural projects

Attendance to one of the following workshops is mandatory in order to apply for a 2021 NYSCA Decentralization grant.

The dates, locations and times for the workshops are listed below. Virtual workshops will be presented through ZOOM. Additional information and the login link will be provided after you register for a specific day and time.

The dates, locations* and times for the workshops are listed below:
·     Tuesday, 7/21, 2PM
·     This is a dual format workshop will be available with limited capacity in person at Westbury Village Hall, as well as virtually
·     Thursday, 7/23 Virtual Workshop, 6PM
·     Tuesday, 7/28 Virtual Workshop, 6PM
·     Thursday, 7/30 Virtual Workshop, 2PM
·     Tuesday, 8/4 Virtual Workshop, 6 PM
·     Thursday, 8/6 Virtual Workshop, 6PM

You can register for these workshops here.

AARP Hosts Disrupt Disparities

AARP is hosting a series of digital roundtables to discuss how the COVID-19 crisis has affected New York’s 50+ and aging populations, with special attention paid to the racial and ethnic disparities apparent in the impact of the virus.

These roundtables are utilized to brainstorm policy solutions that can be supported by community influencers and elected officials, and help implemented.  We will be discussing the impact of COVID-19 on the aging population, and cover a range of issues, such as senior meal deliveries, senior centers, and social isolation, while also thinking through policy solutions that would begin to resolve these issues.  We would like for all attendees to perhaps bring with them ideas and insights into policy solutions for this conversation.

July 22nd 11 am – 12 noon for Nassau. The Suffolk event has passed.

For more information, contact Bernard Macias.

FMC Hosts ‘Fast Chat’ Series Starting July 21st

Fair Media Council introduces Fast Chat, a series of live Zoom conversations with notables in news, media & business. This series begins on Tuesday, July 21 at 2 p.m. with our first guest: One of the most influential business thought leaders in business today, Jeffrey Hayzlett, discussing the future of business amid COVID19 and, in particular, how to attract new customers, clients and advertisers during a time when we can’t network, shake hands or break bread. 

With Fast Chat, expect engaging conversations that get right to the point, providing you with expert insight and advice to help you improve your life, business and community. 

The format: 20 minutes chat, then 10 minutes audience Q & A. In 30 minutes, you’re in the know. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Jeffrey Hayzlett is the primetime television host of C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett and Executive Perspectives LIVE on C-Suite TV and is the host of the award-winning All Business with Jeffrey Hayzlett on C-Suite Radio. Hayzlett is a global business celebrity, Hall of Fame speaker, Chairman and CEO of C-Suite Network, home of the world’s most trusted network of C-Suite leaders and best-selling author. His most recent book is The Hero Factor: How Great Leaders Transform Organizations and Create Winning Cultures. 

About Reserving Your Virtual Seat:

Tickets for Fast Chat are free for FMC members and news media, but advance registration is required. Not a member? Either join now to get access to the series of Fast Chats, along with other perks of membership, or make a donation of $25 or more to enjoy this Fast Chat. Both options are tax deductible. 

For more information, visit LIBN. To register, click here.

Long Island Arts Council at Freeport Hosting Live, Free Concerts

The Long Island Arts Council at Freeport will be hosting live, free summer concerts at the Esplanade on the Nautical Mile.  Events will take place Thursday nights from 7pm to 8:30pm

COVID-19 requirements that must be followed

•             Attendees need to bring their own chairs
•             You must set up your chairs six feet apart from other attendees
•             You must wear a mask – The Arts Council will have customized face masks for sale with all proceeds going to our programs and services

Here’s the line-up of performers. Please check our website for updates, possible changes, and rain date location.

July 23
Banjo Rascals

July 30
TBA

Aug 6
Turnpike Joe and the Traffic Jam

Aug 13
Sparkle on Stage

Aug 20
Robert Bruey

Aug 27
East End Trio

September 3
TBA

September 10
TBA

Calendar Briefs and Webinars

The following is a list of upcoming and ongoing calendar events. Check back on each publication for updates:

• Virtual Walks: The Health Education Council will be holding Virtual Walks every Monday at 12:30 pm EST and Wednesday at 3 pm EST, with a Spanish language virtual walk each Friday at 3 pm EST.

If you’re interested in taking a walk with friends while still practicing social distancing you can head to the the website here to sign up for a virtual walk. A Spanish speaking version is available here. You will then receive a zoom link and all you’ll need is a smart phone and a good pair of shoes and you’ll be in business!

• Webinar with Shark Tank’s Daymond John. Join Entrepreneur and AARP Brand Ambassador Daymond John and Work & Jobs for a free webinar, What’s Next: Small Businesses & Second Careers, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET on Wednesday, July 22. The webinar targets small business owners and 50+ workers looking to be their own boss.  Register here.  For more information, contact Felicia Brown.

Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk Announces 2020 Veterans Build in Bellport

Habitat for Humanity of Suffolk is happy to announce that applications are now open for our 2020 Veterans Build in Bellport, NY.  This home is already under construction and should be ready for the new homeowner this fall.  

Too many of our brave men and women serving this country, are coming home from their tour of duty and still battling the rising cost of housing. In honor of their service, we are giving special preference towards eligible veterans and their families for this home.

Who is eligible? 

• Must be in need of housing
• Household must include a US Veteran with honorable discharge 
• Must receive regular, verifiable income within our family size guidelines
• Must be able to qualify for an affordable mortgage 
• Must have $1,500 minimum in savings to provide as a down payment

APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED AND COMPLETE (with all required documents & credit check fee) NO LATER THAN August 15th.  If you are interested in applying, please do so ASAP.  Qualified applicants may be accepted and approved before 8/15 if application volume is high so don’t delay!

You can download the Application form here.

NYS Launches Rent Relief Program

The COVID Rent Relief Program will provide eligible households with a one-time rental subsidy that will be sent directly to the household’s landlord. Applicants will not need to repay this assistance.

The Covid Rent Relief Program is not first come, first served. Applications will be accepted throughout the two-week application period. HCR will prioritize eligible households with “greatest economic and social need” accounting for income, rent burden, percent of income lost and risk of homelessness.

The rental assistance payment will cover the difference between the household’s rent burden on March 1, 2020 and the increase in rent burden for the months the households is applying for assistance. Households can apply for up to four months in rental assistance.

Eligible households must meet the following criteria:

• Before March 1, 2020 and at the time of application, household income must have been below 80% of the area median income, adjusted for household size. You can find your county’s area median income, based on your household size: www.hcr.ny.gov/eligible-income-limits-80-ami-county
• Before March 1, 2020 and at the time of application, the household must have been paying more than 30% of gross monthly income towards rent.  Gross income includes wages as well as any cash grants, child support, social security, unemployment benefits, etc.)
• Applicants must have lost income during the period of April 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020.

HCR has created a dedicated call center to provide residents with help Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. Call the COVID Rent Relief Program Call Center at 1-833-499-0318 or email at covidrentrelief@hcr.ny.gov

You can apply for assistance and check FAQ’s here.

New York State Accepting Applications for NY Forward Loan Fund

New York State has opened pre-applications for the New York Forward Loan Fund. Loans from this fund are available to small businesses, nonprofits, and small landlords in New York State that did not receive a loan from either the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) for COVID-19 in 2020. New York Forward loans must be fully repaid over a 5-year term with fixed annual interest rates of 3 percent for small businesses and landlords.

Small businesses may apply for the lesser of $100,000 or up to 100% of the average monthly revenues in any 3-month period from 2019 or the first quarter of 2020. This loan can be paid back over five years with first year being interest only.  However, if small businesses have received either a PPP loan or an EIDL loan from SBA, they would not be eligible to apply. NYS has set a goal of 18% of total funds under this Program for Long Island

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as industries and regions reopen however, priority for New York Forward Loans will be given to industries and regions that have been reopened. Resources are available to assist in preparing applications for small businesses, landlords and nonprofits in industries and regions that have not yet reopened.

Governor Cuomo Launches National “Mask Up” Campaign

Gov.Andrew M. Cuomo  launched the national “Mask Up America” education and awareness campaign Thursday to urge all Americans to wear a mask while in public to help stop the spread of  Covid-19.

“New Yorkers suffered gravely when this pandemic hit our state and as we see other states battle the surge of COVID-19, we want to be sure all Americans know what we know here – that it is essential to wear a mask in order to protect one another,” Cuomo said. “We can only beat this virus if we are united as one, not divided by ideology or politics. In that spirit we worked with the best and most creative team to deliver this vital message in multiple ways and in different voices – I wear a mask to protect you and you wear a mask to protect me. It is simple as that. Mask Up America.”

The campaign includes a series of eight TV public service announcements, the first two of which are available today. All of the PSAs will be available in partnership with the Ad Council for use by broadcast and digital media outlets. The PSAs will air in donated media time and space throughout the country.

You can read more at Huntington Now.

Our Daily Sponsor

Zucaro Construction

Founded in 1978, Zucaro Construction has grown to become one of the most respected and competitive General Contractors in the Long Island and the Metropolitan Area. Its founder, Andrew Zucaro, formed his company with the traditional values and attention to details that have guided him throughout his professional career.

With field experience and an extensive background in commercial, industrial and high-end residential construction management,coupled with “old school” business ethics as his foundation, it is not surprising to find Andrew Zucaro on site, managing each project in detail from beginning to end, ensuring satisfaction every step of the way.

Over the last 32 years, specializing in General Contracting and Construction Management, Zucaro Construction has paid great focus in compiling a lineup of seasoned and polished sub-contractors that meet Andrew Zucaro’s very high standards of workmanship and reliability. When combined with Zucaro Construction’s in-house crew, the result is a powerhouse team.