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


May 15th, 2020



Quotes of Day


“The Sayville Chamber Small Business Relief Fund was set up specifically for our small businesses in the Greater Sayville downtown area that are suffering financially during this COVID crisis. 100% of the proceeds will go back directly to those businesses in need to be able to set up online sales via websites, advertise, order stock when they reopen, signage, costs of rent, utilities etc. and much more. They have been there for us, now let's be there for them when they need us.” - The Greater Sayville Chamber of Commerce

   
The following are an ongoing collection of quotes in opposition to a proposal to remove local zoning in the middle of this pandemic.
   
“The ability to set zoning standards and pave the direction of a given locality’s future goes to the very heart of what local government is about.  Usurping this local ability essentially disenfranchises all of the residents who have chosen their elected representatives to reflect their ideas and values in laws and policies.” - Hon. Chad Lupinacci, Huntington Town Supervisor
"Each community is unique, more to the point every hamlet and village is different. This isn’t the time to be making assumptions, or cutting corners. Now is the time we should be evolving, learning how to improve our operations and ready ourselves to bring small business back. The only way we do this is with total unity between the residents, businesses and local government." - Hon. Ed Wehrheim, Smithtown Town Supervisor

“I have always advocated for increased public input, public hearings and resident voices when it comes to the future of their own community. As we rebuild the economy from this public health crisis, we must not allow anyone to shutdown public input nor take away the rights of our residents. Only by working together will we build an even better and brighter community for our generation and future generations.” - Hon. Steve Labriola, Oyster Bay Town Councilman

"It is my understanding that there is a movement underway to remove the building code and approval policies from local municipalities. One size does not fit all!! Each locality knows its own municipality better than anybody else. Controls should remain local!!" - Hon. William D Warner Mayor Village of Great Neck Estates
"Local communities have spent many years working to be able to have an important say in the zoning of their communities and it would be a terrible mistake to attempt to change that now. Who knows better what a community should look like than the residents who live there. In my own community of Mastic/Shirley we were able to influence the look of new commercial buildings on Montauk Highway through the input of our residents and we certainly do not want our voices taken away." - Beth Wahl, President of the Mastic-Shirley Chamber of Commerce

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

Helping Main Street through the
Coronavirus Shutdown

Day 61 of shutdown – Friday May 15th, 2020

The Coronavirus economic shutdown is on day 61.    Lots of local businesses and residents are frustrated and have massive economic anxiety at the lack of clarity regarding reopening.  Many independent retailers are frustrated that you can have 50 people in a CVS or more in a Target but not 2 in a local jewelry or clothing store.  On the brighter side local municipalities, chambers and local residents are collaborating in numerous communities across Long Island on plans for reopening. 

Today’s downtown profiled is the Village of Sag Harbor.  Our Communities Helping Communities segment takes us to Sayville.  

Here are some updates:

The new CDC Guidelines are out for Schools, Workplace & Events.

The CDC has a flowchart to see if a restaurant or bar are ready to open.

NYS has set some rules for retailers.

• So upstate regions got a reprieve from the shutdown but Long Island apparently is moving backwards according to NYS’s metrics.   Here is the Executive Order the continued shutdown downstate.

• One ray of sunshine today – NYS will open beaches on Memorial Day because Connecticut and New Jersey plan to as well.  The beaches have to operate at 50% capacity and face coverings are mandatory.

• Another bit of good news – it seems horse racing at Belmont will resume soon.

• The US Chamber of Commerce has produced a guidebook for reopening your business.   Check it out.

If you have been trying to figure out where to get tested for the Coronavirus here is a cool website created by Jericho HS students that tells you the closest site by zip code.

Long Beach businesses have been sorting out plans to reopenCheck it out.

Village of Port Jeff Mayor Margot Garant shared the news of a brand new electric vehicle charger operating now right in front of Rocketship Park in the Salt meadow parking lot. If you have an EV car or Tesla, simply download the ChargePoint app https://www.chargepoint.com/ to track locations and initiate charges. You can even reserve an EV parking space with the app as long as you are charging your EV vehicle! For more information go to www.portjeff.com/parking

• The one common refrain we have heard over the last 60+ days of the Coronavirus shutdown is that the rules are tilted towards large chain stores shutting out independent retailers. 50 people in a CVS or 100 at a Target can shop and buy a range of items while 2 people are not allowed in a Main Street clothing, jewelry or specialty shop. No matter how many government officials we ask about this inequity there are no clear answers.
The guidelines of "essential" vs "non-essential" need a second look especially now that local communities, small businesses, municipalities and residents are taking sanitation and distancing very seriously.
Here is a story from CBS News reporter Jennifer Mclogan that speaks to the issue. Check it out.

If you like looking at charts and want to see how other countries are faring with the Coronavirus check this site out.

Here are the latest NYS directives for reopening by industry. Here is a Q & A on the NYS regulations as well.

The Treasury Department has issued a new interim final rule on the SBA’s PPP and EIDL which is posted on their website, this one related to loan increases. 

HEROES ACT: Democrats in the House of Representatives introduced a new coronavirus stimulus bill called the HEROES Act. This proposal calls for more than $3 trillion in aid to state and local governments, increases testing, extends unemployment insurance and provides for expansion of voting by mail. The bill also proposes to give Americans another $1,200 in direct payments and additional mortgage relief. While the bill will likely pass the House, it will have an uphill battle in the US Senate. However, it is vital that state and local governments which have been devastated by the effects of this virus be given financial assistance in order for them to continue to fund basic public services including education, police and fire departments, road maintenance and sanitation services. 

NYS Senator Monica Martinez proposed the Unsung Heroes Act of 2020 which will allow for guaranteed sick leave, coverage of medical expenses,  and job protection to those individuals deemed essential employees as defined under Executive Order, who are stricken with COVID-19 as well as death benefits to the family if an individual is to succumb to the virus. For the purposes of this legislation, essential employees are those on the front line such as child protective services workers, grocery store clerks, delivery workers, postal service employees, first responders, health professionals, sanitation workers, and law enforcement officers.

• Please folks, in the sometimes cavalier discussion on reopening or not reopening our economy please take into account the fact that there are almost 2 million New Yorkers unemployed right now who weren't two months ago. That doesn't count the tens of thousands or more folks who haven't been able to navigate NYS's Unemployment system for benefits.
This crisis has not only had a devastating health impact but a massive economic impact. And yes if you are not one of those people hurt economically - say a prayer, choose a blessing or at least be humble that you are not.

The good folks at the Interfaith Nutrition Network have scheduled virtual events to support their local service programs.

Miss going to the Movies?  The Town of North Hempstead is having Drive In Movies – check it out.

• The Town of Hempstead will waive permit fees and allow outdoor dining for local restaurants – check it out.

The Village of Freeport is distributing free masks and gloves to residents.

• The Town of Brookhaven has a microloan program for small businesses set up through the Cares Act.   Deadline is approaching so check it out:
The Town of Brookhaven has received a special allocation of funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the CARES Act in response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Town of Brookhaven Department of Housing and Human Services has created an Emergency Microenterprise Business Relief Grant Program to help mitigate the economic hardships experienced by small businesses during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
A microenterprise business is a business with five or fewer employees, one or more of whom owns the business/enterprise. This will help to sustain the microenterprise business during this period of economic slow-down. The primary Community Development Block Grant objective of assistance to low-and-moderate income business owners will be through grants to assist in overhead costs of microenterprise businesses within the Town of Brookhaven. Grants provided may be up to $10,000 per business.
Attached is the Guidelines and Application Packet. THE DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING APPLICATIONS IS MAY 20, 2020 at 4:30pm. Application will be processed on a first come/first served basis until such time as program grant funds are exhausted. Applications can be emailed prior to the deadline to Christine Rignola at CRignola@brookhavenny.gov. If you have any questions, please contact Christine at (631) 451-6602.

• Vision’s Director had the opportunity to be on Facebook Live with NYS Assemblywoman Taylor Darling for the launch of her Tuesday’s with Taylor show.  Check it out. 

The Nassau IDA plans to help downtown small businesses.

What is a surprise to no one is that lots of business are switching banks after the fiasco associated with the SBA’s Payroll Protection Program.

• The Department of Labor has a Self Employment Assistance Program that allows you to collect unemployment and work.  Check it out.

• The good folks at Touro College have a legal assistance hotline and are navigating people through unemployment and varying other situations.   Check it out.

Updated guidance on essential construction.

• Not a surprise but parents with young children are facing massive stress and financial insecurity.   Check out the survey results here.

• We have been critical of the minimum amount of Corporate philanthropy out there but here is a link for small businesses to apply for $5,000 grants to FedEx.   Check it out.

The Suffolk Legislature is meeting Tuesday May 19th at 4pm – here is how to practice democracy virtually:
Recording Testimony Over the Phone: A new initiative, parties can now call (631) 853-3685 and leave a three-minute message about topics 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. Recorded voice testimony will be accepted through the close of business on May 19th.
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.
Testifying at a Public Hearing via Zoom: You can testify at a public hearing scheduled for the May 19th General Meeting through Zoom. Sign up to receive the meeting invitation by filling out the online form at www.scnylegislature.us/publichearing. Those wishing to speak must sign up before hearings are set to begin at 6:30 PM on May 19.
Questions about how to participate or submit testimony should be directed to the Suffolk County Legislature Clerk’s office at 631-853-6351.

The real estate and construction sectors will make changes within their industry to get back to work with a focus on safety and sanitation.

• The Coronavirus crisis has necessitated school closings throughout the country. Some school systems were prepared to pivot into Distance Learning because their students have access to personal computers or District-supplied devices. This is not universally true, especially for many Central Islip and Brentwood students, where over 6,000 students have been identified as needing a computer to login and do their online school assignments. The communities of Central Islip and Brentwood have unified to help these students get the supplies they need, and deserve, to succeed in this new learning environment.
A GoFundMe page titled “Computers for Kids Campaign” has been set up with the hopes of raising $1,000,000 worth of funds in order to donate devices for the Brentwood and Central Islip students in need.  If you are interested in making a financial donation towards this fundraising goal, please do so by using the GoFundMe link: gf.me/u/xx5dqc.

Last week the Governor extended a moratorium on evictions related to the Coronavirus shutdown.

• After pressure from downtown Mayors, local chambers, small business advocates and really just about everyone the SBA is starting to fund truly small businesses.   Many of the banks in charge of the applications gave loans to their biggest customers with very little going to small companies. Kudos to Congressmembers Lee Zeldin, Peter King, and Kathleen Rice who we have heard were very active in making this happen in concert with Senator Schumer and Gillibrand.  Newsday did a cover story on this infuriating topic.

If you have received your PPP but need to know the guidelines for Loan Forgiveness.

Re-opening has been a major topic for everyone.  The LI Main Street Alliance was out in downtown Farmingdale last week hearing from shop owners and the Mayor.

When businesses reopen, they must implement new safety precautions to help lower the risk of spreading the virus. These measures include strict cleaning and sanitation standards, restricting nonessential travel, adapting the workplace to allow for social distancing, and requiring masks to be worn if employees are in frequent contact with the public. To read the full list of guidelines, check out Governor Cuomo’s full release on the topic: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/amid-ongoing-covid-19-pandemic-governor-cuomo-outlines-additional-guidelines-when-regions-can

Suffolk County has produced a document to help guide reopening.

A proposal to remove local zoning and hand it over to Albany has been floated in Newsday and the LI Business News and now has been formally sent to the Governor’s 100 member advisory committee which contains roughly 5 Long Islanders and guided by the McKinsey company.   Sadly this effort is presented in the middle of a pandemic with real people focused on human needs.   Many builders are opposed to this measure along with State & County officials, municipal leaders, chambers and community organizationsLI Business News has an initial story on this power grab in the middle of a pandemic when most regular folks are at their most anxious and stressed.

• The Federal Reserve Board announced that it is expanding the scope and eligibility for its Main Street Lending Program. The changes are designed to offer more options to a wider set of eligible small and medium-size businesses. The Fed said that the starting date for the program will be announced soon.
A webinar was held on this program with information below:
https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/mainstreetlending.htm

The Small Business Administration resumed accepting applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) yesterday from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower. For more information, visit the SBA’s website here.
A message from the SBA:
The Small Business Administration will resume accepting PPP loan applications on Monday, April 27 at 10:30AM EDT from approved lenders on behalf of any eligible borrower. This will ensure that SBA has properly coded the system to account for changes made by the legislation.
We encourage all approved lenders to process loan applications previously submitted by eligible borrowers and disburse funds expeditiously.  All eligible borrowers who need these funds should work with an approved lender to apply. Borrowers should carefully review PPP regulations and guidance and the certifications required to obtain a loan.
For more information on the Paycheck Protection Program, visit: sba.gov/paycheckprotection
They SBA also announced that:
The EIDL application will not reopen
The applications already received, in the queue are being processed on a first come first serve basis.

• BUT The Emergency Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance/Loan portal is temporarily open for agricultural businesses that were previously ineligible for the program. New non-agricultural business applications will not be accepted. The portal will be opened for a limited period, and it is recommended that you apply as soon as possible.  The link to the portal will be:   http://www.sba.gov/Disaster

• Folks have been scrambling to see where there bank is regarding the SBA’s Payroll Protection Program – here is a list of the most SBA lenders for LI and the region.

• The IRS has an Employee Retention Tax CreditCheck it out here.

• Check on the status of your IRS Economic Impact Payment.

The Gates Foundation will work to “reimagine” our schools.

A former partner from McKinsey & Company is looking to phase out the Post Office.

• The stories of community level philanthropy are heartwarming and we will profile at least one each day.  Today's profile features a school district in Great Neck

Pink Tie has set up a Pink Tie Delivers system to bring food to local pantries across Long Island. The launch has been active multiple weeks with stops in Hempstead, Medford, Mastic Beach, Freeport, Central Islip, and Westbury. This week we headed to Huntington Station and Babylon. Check out how you can help.

The LI Main Street Alliance’s “We’re Open” Facebook page is live sharing all of the local businesses still operating in 40 local communities.   Like it and share it and most importantly support your Main Street.

• Really thorough cover story in LI Business News of the Coronavirus shutdown's economic impact on Main Streets across Long Island.  Many members of the LI Main Street Alliance were involved in the feature which covered the communities of Hempstead, Farmingdale, Patchogue, East Meadow, Bethpage and Babylon. Vision and the Nassau Council of Chambers of Commerce were interviewed as well. Check it out.

NY Blood Center and Mt. Sinai are looking for plasma donations from patients who have successfully recovered for COVID-19 for convalescent plasma treatments, here is the information:
NY Blood Center
While COVID has no proven treatment, it is possible that plasma taken from those who have recovered (convalescent plasma), which has antibodies against the virus, could help. If you had a positive test, AND your symptoms have been gone for 14 days, AND you are willing to DONATE, please complete and submit this form.
All information provided will be kept confidential and will only be used to qualify you as a donor.
Mount Sinai COVID-19 Plasma Donation
If you had COVID-19 and have recovered you can help save a life. Your blood may contain antibodies that fight the virus and can help critically ill people. Mount Sinai is looking to screen you as a volunteer. Please fill out this form to see if you are eligible.

• It goes without saying that the front line providers in health care, police, ambulance, food services, pharmacy, child care, and many others are working round the clock and are the true heroes through this crisis.
Participate in the "Letters to Our Heroes" initiative!  Families can send emails (or scan letters or artwork) to show their support for our first responders, doctors, nurses and healthcare workers who are helping to control the COVID-19 outbreak and keep our communities healthy. You can email them to: LSchaefer@NassauCountyNY.gov   
The SBA sites and webinars and NYS DOL unemployment websites continue to be overloaded with requests.  SBA webinars have been filled to capacity.  The 311 call center in Suffolk, the call lines in Nassau as well and every Town, Village and community organizations are taking enormous amount of calls to answer questions and guide residents to resources where they are available.
For the small businesses that are still open there is a movement to continue to support them and keep them operating.  To their credit that is largely happening in most downtowns across Long Island. 
As we are wrapping up the 9th week of economic shutdown please think about supporting your local businesses at least once if not multiple times.    We have spoken to well over 600 local businesses in nearly 50 downtown communities and they need your help.

RECENT NEWS FROM GOVERNMENT

New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez Introduces Important Pieces Of Legislation To Support Residents During The COVID Pandemic

Lowey, Schumer Announce Historic Proposal for $67 billion in Critical New York State, County, and Local Government COVID Relief Funds

Schumer Floor Remarks On The Need For Big, Bold And Swift Action To Respond To The Health And Economic Crisis Caused By The Coronavirus Pandemic Including Help For Truly Small Businesses And A National, Comprehensive Testing Strategy

Gillibrand Joins Bipartisan Call On Trump Administration To Raise SBA’s PPP Non-Payroll Forgiveness Cap

Schumer, Gillibrand, Delgado, Zeldin Announce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation that will deliver direct federal funding for all New York Counties, Cities, Towns & Villages, Responding to and Recovering from Pandemic

Schumer, Gillibrand announce over $8 million in Federal Funds for 33 Long Island Organizations Working to End Homelessness

Governor Cuomo’s May 15th message

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran’s May 15th message

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone’s May 15th message

Painful news is that NYS has ordered the Schools to be shut down through the end of the year.

So it looks like another 200,000 joined the ranks of the official unemployment count which doesn't factor in the large amount who have not been able to access benefits from NYS DOL.  The total receiving unemployment in NYS is over 1.6 million and 30 million nationally.

Looks like without small business aid half of NYS’s breweries will close within months.

With no school to drive to a LI bus company closes and lays off 900.

Treasury Secretary Mnuchin suggests that big companies should apologize for taking small business loans that were meant for small businesses.

Problems continue as small businesses seek to access the Payroll Protection Program

Folks are digesting the varying guidelines and timelines associated with the reopening of the economy

The Mckinsey Company will be assisting with planning the recovery.

Big businesses and institutions were the first to access SBA programs with little to nothing left for small businesses.

Local pharmacies will play a role in Coronavirus testing.

NYS Department of Labor Launches New Streamlined Application for New Yorkers to Apply for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Without Having to First Apply for Unemployment Insurance

Sen. Schumer calls on FDA to crack down on unregulated home coronavirus test kits

US Senator Schumer announces New York hospitals and providers to receive an additional $4 billion+ in ‘hot spot’ money to keep the fight against COVID-19 going.

County Executive Curran announced that Nassau is expanding testing in Hempstead and Freeport, and next week will open a testing site in Elmont. Testing will be provided by appointment only, and for more information or to make an appointment, call 516-396-7500

US Senator Kirstin Gillibrand sent out a memo outlining some cases of fraud concerning SBA applications – please review and report and suspicious activity:
1)     Emails impersonating SBA to a borrower regarding PPP loan applications. SBA DOES NOT communicate with borrowers regarding specific PPP loan applications. All PPP loan correspondence should be between the lender and the borrower. 
2)     Emails impersonating SBA asking for borrowers to complete and sign attached documents to “complete” their disaster “Grant Application.” SBA does not process grants. All EIDL loan processing now occurs through the EIDL portal, and legitimate loan approval emails clearly reference the original confirmation #. If additional documentation is required (95% of loans do not require more documentation), it is electronically handled in the portal. EIDL Advances process with NO action required on the part of the applicant.
3)     These phishing emails are sophisticated, with SBA logos and styling consistent with legitimate SBA communications. If in doubt, the borrower may contact our office. 
Report any suspected fraud to OIG’s Hotline at 800-767-0385 or online here.

The jobless rate has tripled and is at 14.7 percent.

Senator Schumer’s release on $2 trillion Federal rescue package with $112 billion headed to NYS

US Senators Chuck Schumer and Kristen Gillibrand urge the Trump administration to protect frontline transit workers and update safety guidelines.

Senator Schumer proposed a “Heroes Fund” of $25,000 for all first line responders as part of the newest Federal Stimulus package.

NYS Senator Todd Kaminsky introduced a bill supported by US Congresswoman Kathleen Rice for mortgage relief for homeowners. 

The NYS Department of Labor has addressed their massive backlog to move over $2 billion of benefits to New Yorkers.

NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has developed a Covid-19 Financial Survival Toolkit for New Yorkers with links and resources for residents, government entities, nonprofits and businesses. Check it out here.

10 Town Supervisors are urging NYS to push back the property tax deadline

• NYS Senator Anna Kaplan hosted a webinar on Facebook Live to help small business owners to make sense of the different relief programs that now exist to help during this difficult time. If you missed it live, you can watch it here.

Here is the executive order from the Governor on compliance for face coverings.

NYS is coordinating over 300 private labs to prioritize virology testing.

Updated NYS guidance document on essential vs nonessential businesses.

Nassau County Executive Laura Curran hosted a Coronavirus State of the County on News 12 Long Island you can watch it here.

Long Island Towns are calling on the Governor to provide a delay in property tax payments.

An agreement has been reached on replenishing SBA lending programs
This includes $320 billion for the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, including $60 billion which would be set aside for small lenders and community financial institutions and $60 billion for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand led a webinar on the components of the agreement along with future and took many folks questions including those from Long Islanders.

• Nassau County will delay collection of licensing fees from some contractors whose licenses have expired past June. 

Lupinacci, Suffolk Town Supervisors Call for Residential Construction to Resume

North Hempstead provides an update on their efforts against COVID-19

The Village of Valley Stream is Supporting Small Business

PSEG Long Island is warning you to look out for scams and fraud feeding on the pandemic

AT&T is providing updates to their COVID-19 response along with resources.

RESOURCES FOR SMALL BUSINESS

La Fuerza Community Development Corp has a microloan program for minority owned small businesses in Nassau and Suffolk County.

Resentment is growing on Main Street over bailout winners and losers

• For folks complaining about brick and mortar stores charging an extra dollar or two for hand sanitizer note that Amazon has been sued for price gouging with essential items spiking as high as 1,000%.

US Senator Kristin Gillibrand has provided this thorough Q&A on the CARES Act.

The US Senate has provided this resource guide for small businesses and the CARES act.

A Small Business Owner's Guide to the CARES Act.

The Federal Reserve unveiled the details of its Main Street lending program.
Here is a direct link to the Federal Reserve and initial documents.

• The NYS Department of Labor has instituted a new system to spread out applications.  Check out the PSA that explains their new guidelines to get folks their benefits.

The SBA Paycheck Protection Program is an important program and details are coming forward.

With the passage last Friday of the CARES Act, small business owners and nonprofits can get up to a $10,000 advance on an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan.

• Also check the Suffolk Chambers and Nassau Chambers website for important news and links.
Newsday and the LIA hosted a webinar with NYS SBDC and you can check it out here

The LI Main Street Alliances “We Are Open” Facebook page is now live sharing all of the local businesses still operating in 40 local communities.   Like it and share it and most importantly support your Main Street.

Our friends at LISTnet have a Coronavirus support page.

NYS Sen Anna Kaplan hosted “Preparing Your Small Business for a Reopened Community,” featuring practical steps you can take right now to prepare your business for the next phase of this crisis. If you weren’t able to participate live, you can watch the replay any time on my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/AnnaMKaplan/videos/2929655900462446/

National Federation of Independent Businesses is holding webinars on small business loans and has videos of past ones on their site.

If you are in the construction industry here is a very thoughtful webinar from the KOW consulting group on changes underway.

• Updated information regarding REVISED SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan application can be found here.

SBA's Coronavirus landing page has been updated as well, and has important information including on the SBA Bridge Loan Program

Property and casualty insurance premiums were waived for small business

The Small Business Association announced an automatic deferment for loans from previous disasters

All nonessential construction is shutdown

Updated NYS guidance document on essential vs nonessential businesses

NYS has developed a Shared Work program for folks to apply for partial unemployment to supplement a reduced work schedule

Dining Bonds created to help local small businesses

The free New York State business advisement services of the Small Business Centers at Stony Brook University and Farmingdale are also available to assist

Facebook has grants for small businesses

Kiva has grants for small business

Amazon has a grant fund for small business

Verizon has set up a small business recovery fund

• The US Chamber of Commerce has a small grant program for small businesses employing between 3-20 people is already oversubscribed after a few hours open. Check it out

The State established a new partnership with the New York State Court System to create a pro bono network of volunteer lawyers to provide New Yorkers in need with free legal assistance. Volunteers will begin to receive training and start offering assistance next week. Lawyers interested in volunteering can sign up at www.nysba.org/covidvolunteer

• If you are at home do you dream about going back to your office or workplace?   If you are a boss or a manager here is what you should know from the Occupational Health and Safety Administration about making your workplace safe upon return.

National Grid has created a targeted grants to help manufacturers who need assistance to develop new products or implement lean manufacturing, to produce critical items to support the pandemic response.

Grants for Artists impacted by Coronavirus.

Grants for Restaurant workers.

The LI Herald has created a grant program that counts towards 50% discounts on advertising your business.

SCORE Long Island is available to assist businesses with their SBA applications

Read the Editorial from Stuart Richner of the Herald calling for a Small Business Stimulus to lead us into the recovery.

Here is a video with Leg. William Doc Spencer on safely supporting Main Street businesses

Rose Walker visited local downtowns to remind residents to patronize businesses that are struggling right now.

• Legislator Laura Schaefer has a series of videos on her Facebook page promoting takeout and delivery to independent small businesses.  Here is one for West Hempstead.

Nassau County Minority Affairs Director Lionel Chitty provides an update on small business disaster loans.

Nassau County and Suffolk County are surveying small businesses: The Nassau County survey is here.  The Suffolk County survey is here.

• RXR has set up a series of volunteer resources to help your business during the shutdown.  Check it out.

• LI Business News and Newsday have done a great job reporting on the need to support local businesses.  Here are a couple of recent stories spotlighting downtown businesses and the LI Main Street Alliance members:

Eating on the Run at LIBN
Survey of Downtown Businesses Shows Potential Closurees at Newsday
How to keep the money from the federal small business bailout at Crane's New York (Subscription required)

• LISTnet hosted a webinar with Vision and the LI Main Street Alliance on adapting to the technology of working at home.  Here is the video link of the session.

• NYS Assemblywoman Judy Griffin hosted an event with local chambers and the LI Main Street Alliance on programs that can help small business.   You can check out the call here. (Access password: 1j@44H@5)

Suffolk Legislator Dr. William Spencer and NYS Senator James Gaughran held a Virtual Town Hall to address the ongoing NYS response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the recently adopted 2020-21 NYS budget, and answer your questions.  You can view the tape here.

• Nassau County Executive Laura Curran  and Executive Director of Minority affairs Lionel Chitty were on Radio Zindagi 540 AM with Harry Molhatra from the South Asian Chamber of Commerce.   They answering questions and concerns, informed the community and small business owners about important information
Radio zindagi on 540 AM  You can view the tape here.

Last week, NYS Senator Anna Kaplan held her second Small Business Support webinar with experts from the SBA and ESD giving an update about programs available to small businesses, and answering questions from business owners on Facebook Live. If you weren’t able to catch it the first time, you can watch it anytime at https://www.facebook.com/AnnaMKaplan/videos/931428823960667/

RESOURCES FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT / SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Senator Schumer also called on the Federal Reserve to open up Main Street lending programs to Cities and Counties.

The Governor has announced a new testing protocol.

Senator Schumer, Gillibrand and Congressional delegation deliver $18 million for housing and community development for Long Island’s Counties and local municipalities.

The NYS Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management has weblinks for assistance here.

Newsday has set up a page on their website for free messages for community organizations.   

New grant resource for folks who provide meals to children from No Kid Hungry

If you are a school providing meals during the Coronavirus crisis grants are available.

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation has grants for to nonprofit organizations serving low-income individuals, families and communities in New York State.

The American Heart Association has grants for efforts to access healthy food and active living.

BILLS BILLS BILLS

Some tips on bills you need to pay and some that you don’t as this crisis gets prolonged

The IRS has created a Q&A page with information on what you need to do with your taxes

Up to date information in accessing unemployment from NYS DOL

If you filed for unemployment during the COVID-19 pandemic, you do not need to prove you are searching for employment to make a claim. Department of Labor Commissioner Reardon has signed a new order that limits all work search activities for all unemployment claimants. No activities are required during the pandemic to receive unemployment benefits.

Life Insurance payments deferred - For a 90-day period, New Yorkers experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 may defer paying life insurance premiums. Late payments will be payable over a one-year period. Additionally, consumers and small businesses experiencing Coronavirus-related financial hardship may defer paying premiums for property and casualty insurance for a 60-day period. This includes auto, homeowners, renters and other kinds of insurance. (No late fees will be assessed and there will be no negative impact to your credit.)

Pharmacies will now offer free home delivery to New Yorkers. All NYS major pharmacy chains, pharmacies have agreed to offer free home delivery to help reduce long lines for prescriptions at their facilities

Student loan borrowers experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 can obtain relief for loans not covered by the CARES Act. Available relief includes 90 days of deferred monthly payments, waived late fees, no negative reporting to credit agencies and enrolling eligible borrowers in available long-term assistance programs. New York student loan borrowers should visit the Department of Financial Services' website at dfs.ny.gov for more information about available student loan relief.

Resources for displaced bartenders.

Resources for displaced hospitality workers.

If you are an artist the NYS Foundation for the Arts has Emergency Grants.

If you are a photographer there are small grants available.

PSEG has a Coronavirus page that is updated regularly

• There is now a 90 day waiver on mortgage payments which is a relief to the thousands of Long Islanders that had those bills hanging over their head during an extended forced shutdown.

Freddie Mac is prohibiting evictions on properties where their loans are in place

All NYS Department of Motor Vehicles licenses, ID’s and registrations are extended.   All offices closed and transactions are shifted to online service.

AT&T suspends collection activities during the Coronavirus crisis

PSEG Long Island Halts Service Shut Offs

National Grid Halts Service Shut Offs

Verizon Suspends Collection Activities

Geico postponed collectons during Coronavirus shutdown

Folks can check out this stimulus calculator that tells you what you might receive in the form of a direct payment from the Federal government.

You may be able to temporarily stop making your student loan payments.

If you are struggling with various bills to pay and worry about automatic payments from your bank account here is guidance on how to stop them.

Got credit card debt?  Here is an updated list of banks that are providing relief to customers affected by the Coronavirus.

Got wireless bills?  AT&T and Verizon have given guidance on how to handle them – here is Sprint’s

• Auto insurance bills?  Many car insurance companies are providing discounts and credits to customers as a result of the dramatic reduction in driving that’s been taking place during the pandemic.  Check with your provider to see if they’re offering one, and if there are any steps you need to take in order to receive the discount.

National Grid has updated information about their billing.

Curious about the process for Federal Coronavirus Recovery Checks? The first round of federal relief payments began going out today, so if the federal government had your direct deposit information from a recent income tax filing, you should check your bank account!

• NYS has updated its essential list of businesses again. Check out the latest.

NYS Comptroller Tom DiNapoli has developed a Covid-19 Financial Survival Toolkit for New Yorkers with links and resources for residents, government entities, nonprofits and businesses. Check it out.

HUMAN NEEDS

Island Harvest provides free referrals and free assistance for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) over the phone, and you do not have to go to the Department of Social Services. Island Harvest can walk you through the online application by telephone or complete a short intake and submit the online application for you. Give them a call at 631-873-4775 for assistance.

A new testing site is opening in Elmont.

Umbrella is coordinating grocery delivery for adults 60+ across Long Island. Individuals can place an order online at askumbrella.com or call 516-882-4498 to get matched with a local volunteer to shop on their behalf. There is a $10 suggested contribution per order to help offset some of our overhead costs - but it is up to the individual to pay what they wish. No one is turned away. With questions about the service, please contact emma@askumbrella.com

New York State will provide child care scholarships to essential workers. Child care costs will be covered for essential staff whose income is less than 300% of the federal poverty level — or $78,600 for a family of four. Essential workers (including health care providers, law enforcement, food delivery workers, grocery store employees and others) can use these scholarships to pay for their existing care arrangement.
If an essential worker needs child care, they can use the below link to begin the application process (select by language spoken)

Folks need Food: If you are in need of food Island Harvest has their food locater and is working round the clock to continue supplies to those in need

Domestic Violence is up 10%:  Many experts in the area of domestic violence prevention have pointed out lately that Isolation and unemployment are a recipe for disaster in a household with a history of intimate partner violence. If you need help, contact the Safe Center 24/7 at 516-542-0404 or the NY Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline at 800-942-6906. If you are in any personal crisis, you can also call the Long Island Crisis Center 24/7 hotline at 516-679-1111.

How is your mental health? A mental health hotline is available to New Yorkers who need it. We can't underestimate the impact this pandemic is having on mental health. Over 6,000 mental health professionals have volunteered their time to help with New York's Coronavirus response. For free emotional support, consultation and referral to a provider, call 1-844-863-9314

If you are pregnant?  Many pregnant women and their families are facing uncertainty about what the COVID-19 outbreak means for their ability to have a safe, supported delivery in Nassau County hospitals.   In response to these concerns, Nassau County has launched a hotline: 516-4UR-CARE. Pregnant patients can call this line and get answers and advice about how to have a safe childbirth under COVID-19 conditions.

Salvation Army has a Coronavirus hotline for their services of food, counseling and other emergency services

Stay Clean - NYS is supplying their hand sanitizer to front line providers on an as need basis.   Here is the request form.

New York State has a Coronavirus hotline and website for information or to schedule a test.  Please call 888-364-3065 or navigate here.

If you lost your health care, NYS has reopened its health exchange.

If you are a Senior check out the AARP Thursday conference call with info on social security, tax deadlines and other services.

• Supervisor Bosworth and the Town of North Hempstead launched a new program to provide our seniors with remote companionship during these isolating times. The “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” program matches volunteers with seniors in the Project Independence program, and is designed to provide a sense of reassurance and comfort. To participate or to volunteer, call 311 or 516-869-6311

If you are a Veteran and struggling through these difficult times you can have virtual Coffee with a Veteran each day at noon until Apr 30.   Email Dave-rogers1969@live.com to sign up.

If you are a senior every Thursday AARP has a live Q and A call to help you manage the Coronavirus crisis.

• If you live in the Huntington area a very thorough Coronavirus Resource Guide is available from the Office of Legislator William Doc Spencer.

If you are a pet owner the CDC has some guidance.  The USDA reported today that two pet cats in New York have tested positive for the novel coronavirus (they’re expected to recover.) There is no evidence that domestic animals can pass the virus on to humans, but it seems apparent that the cats did contract the virus from humans they came in contact with. As a result, the CDC has issued new guidance for pet owners: don’t let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household, keep cats indoors when possible, walk dogs on a leash, staying 6 feet away from other people and animals. Avoid dog parks or places where a large number of people and dogs gather.  

HELP NEEDED

Island Harvest is seeking food donations from commercial food establishments impacted by the coronavirus.

Blood donations are needed: The New York Blood Center said it is in urgent need of donors, since coronavirus concerns have resulted in "critically low blood and platelet appointments" across Long Island. The NYBC has six centers in Nassau and Suffolk and said safety protocols are in place as they urge healthy individuals, who have not been exposed to coronavirus, to donate. The NYBC said if you are unsure if you can donate, you can ask their experts at 800-688-0900 or navigate to their webpage here.

St. Catherine of Siena Medical Center is calling for people to make appointments to donate blood.

New York is calling for qualified health professionals and related professionals to supplement hospital capacity on a temporary basis to help treat seriously ill coronavirus patients.

HELP WANTED

Tens of thousands of Long Islanders are out of work.   There are many service industry positions seeking temporary or permanent employment.   Here are some:

7-11 (looking to add 20,000 jobs)
Aldi (5,000 open positions)
Amazon (looking to add 100,000 employees)
CVS (looking to hire 50,000 employees)
Dollar Tree/Family Dollar (25,000 full- and part-time associates)
Domino’s (looking to hire up to 10,000 employees)
Pepsi (bring another 6,000 people on board)
Pizza Hut (over 30,000 open positions)
ShopRite
Stop & Shop
Walgreens (fill roughly 9,500 full- and part-time positions)
Walmart (adding 150,000 temporary positions)

General Listings:

Indeed
Long Island's Craigslist
New York Jobs

Simply Hired

• There are nearly 2 million folks currently out of work but the good news for some is that NYS is hiring 17,000 tracers at $57,000 a year. Check it out in Patch.

If someone is looking for a procurement opportunity through the state you can fill out this form here.

• If someone is looking for a procurement opportunity with the federal government check out this source

• There are nearly 2 million folks currently out of work but the good news for some is that NYS is hiring 17,000 tracers at $57,000 a year. Check it out in Patch.

HOME & STIR CRAZY

• Pounding your head into the wall with your new job description as a home school teacherCheck out Nassau Boces and their PreK initiative for all sorts of resources to help figure it out.

Walking is important during this shutdown and is a form of self care.

• Folks are at home with their families and children for extended periods.   It’s important to know how to talk to your kids about Coronavirus so they don’t think we are living in an episode of the Walking Dead.  Here is also some guidance from PBS.

• If you are trying to figure out what to do at home with your kid while they have very limited hours with their teachers online.  Western Suffolk BOCES has produced an online toolkit for learning.

An added bonus to the toolkit is an activity with Mo Willems, Author of “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus” and many other cool stories

If you are home and desperately trying to figure out what to do with your child that is remotely productive here are 16 simple things that count as learning.

Turn off your Zoom call once you are done.

• Bored at home - Fifty libraries in Nassau County now offer digital cards, allowing residents to explore their hometown library's book, music and art collections online from the comfort of their couch.

How to make your own face mask.

• If you need some info on how to make your own mask.

Can’t find hand sanitizer and need to make your own?  Here is one recipe.

Need to boost your immune system? The Long Island Press has some ideas.

If you like doing yogaGirls Inc is hosting Family Virtual yoga on Friday April 17th at 5:30. 

How to make homemade disinfectant spray and wipes.

Check out a virtual landscape art exhibit from the Westbury Arts Council

• Always wanted to learn to play guitar but never had time?  Fender is giving free lessons from the next three months.

• Are you and your kids are glued to screens and losing your mind?   Here are 100 non electronic things you can do to keep your kids occupied during the lockdown.

If you are stir crazy with kids at home the Cradle of Aviation uses a video service to bring the museum to residents.

Bored at home?  East End Arts is providing virtual access to artists.

The Staller Center for the Arts has a virtual tour of  many instruments and their outreach activities

Pet ownership is uphere is a piece on how pet ownership helps address isolation particularly for older adults.

• Do you miss Dinner and a movie?   The Cinema Arts Center offers free cooking videos to pair with your favorite independent films they can virtually screen.  Check out the story.
Here is the direct link.

Need Chocolate Activity Kits for kids?  Chocolate Works provides decorating kits, easter oreos and other home kits to make with you kids.   For every one you buy Pink Tie donates one to local food pantries in Hempstead and Medford!

INNOVATION UNDERWAY

Folks are answering Governor Cuomo’s call for ventilators, masks:

The Business Incubator Association has created an invitation to ventilate.   

The LI Racing Association folks have a go fund me page to increase production of their reusable n95 masks.

A Long Island Distillery is making hand sanitizer.

D’Addario, a Long Island musical instrument maker, pivots from making drumheads to face shields

ENVIRONMENT, TRANSPORTATION & SUSTAINABILITY

AARP has announced a Livable Communities Challenge Grant for local community efforts.

SUEZ – who manages Nassau’s major sewage treatment plants in Cedar Creek and Bay Park is urging residents to NOT flush wipes down the toilet but instead place in garbage.  

One benefit of Coronavirus: traffic is down and more folks walking, biking

Environmental regulation impacted as EPA Suspended all Environmental Rules

PSEG Long Island Continues to Storm-Harden the Grid

The MTA has announced partnership with Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgents Care to provide COVID-19 Testing for Heroic MTA workers.

MTA Board Unanimously Ratifies Family Benefits Agreement Recognizing Heroic Sacrifice by Frontline Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic

MTA Announces Virtual Board Meeting to Be Held on April 22

LIPA provides update on coordination plan and current projects and initiative

NICE buses in Nassau County will switch to a reduced schedule. The service will operate on a Saturday schedule from Monday-Saturday, and Sunday service will be unchanged. This does not apply to the Elmont Flexi Shuttle, the Mercy Medical Community Shuttle, the Port Washington Shuttle, and the n19, n57, and n80 routes, which will all continue to run normally

Good news – in a throwback that was really just 45 days ago – here is a profile on the hamlet of Bay Shore and the benefits of their two decades work of revitalization.

More Good news - Consensus emerging on the superblock project in the City of Long Beach due to collaboration with a local developer and community organizations.

A Video session that speaks to Multifamily development weathering the storm better than other forms of development.   

Alfonso Castillo, Newsday’s transportation reporter did a nice profile on the challenges facing LI’s bus system that has been bringing essential workers to work and residents to health services. 

VHB has put together a thoughtful resource guide on transportation, real estate and energy.   Check it out.

OTHER NEWS & RESOURCES

Nassau County Map of updates from Across the County

Suffolk County Map of confirmed Coronavirus cases

• NYS has an established COVID tracker web site that provides data regarding the virus outbreak in the state, including a breakdown of fatalities by age, ethnicity, risk factors, etc.

Thinking Globally?   Here is a website documenting the world impact of Coronavirus.

Thomas Friedman wrote a thoughtful opinion piece on how to get the economy back on track without sacrificing public health.

Inspirational op-ed from LIBN editor Joe Dowd

Gary Labarbara from the NYS Building Trades Council speaks about safety for construction workers.

• Celebrities have time on their hands and are letting us know how they feel including Ben Stiller, Danny Devito, Cardi B, Robert Deniro and Madonna encouraging folks to stay home.  Sean Penn was looking to send in the military.  Arnold Schwartzeneger was telling folks to stay home while smoking a cigar in his hot tub, Neil Diamond even wrote a song called “Hands Washing Hands” sung to the tune of Sweet Caroline.

• Lots of social media chatter and online bullying regarding social distancing.  According to Nassau County Executive Laura Curran, NCPD received 700 calls with only 12 unfounded or easily resolved with a warning.   In Huntington Inspector William Scrima, commander of the Suffolk County Police Second Precinct said “We have gotten a number of calls about people and businesses who are not following social distancing guidelines. Many of the calls are unfounded, others are at businesses that people mistakenly believe are not designated essential.  We have encountered a few non-essential businesses that are open and a few gatherings of people in public areas. All have complied with the guidelines, when notified by our officers.”

The Tourism industry has been severely impacted.  Here is a video with Kevin Wood from the Village of Port Jeff interviewing a representative from Danfords hotel.

Do you care about your grocery store worker?   Check out RWDSU President Stuart Applebaum interviewed at the AFLCIO podcast on conditions for workers.

If you are into civic freedoms and civil liberties the International Center on Not for Profit Law has a global civic freedoms tracker tied to the Coronavirus crisis

Vision Long Island Director wrote an op-ed in LIBN about the importance of supporting Main Street businesses and each other.

HOW CAN I HELP?

There are hundreds of thousands unemployed in NY but there are many more as folks can't or haven’t navigated the system for benefits to date.

That is not simply an eye catching statistic but real people with lives upended.

For the folks that are still working I hope you are:

1) humble, sober and aware of the fact that right now millions of americans are in pain,
2) if you have resources to help local folks - patronize open small businesses to limit further job loss,
3) donate to local food pantries,
4) donate other resources directly to real people you may know in need and
5) if you have resources to give to groups make it very local groups who are on the ground and getting them needed help in this time.

CORPORATE PHILANTHROPY

• We are starting to see some Corporate Philanthropy develop that has been missing through this crisis.   Stay tuned for a more thorough report.

Locally
- The Long Island Community Foundation has set up a Coronavirus fund for community services and organizations.
- Pink Tie and the LI Nets have developed a Pink Tie delivers program.
- Trader Joe’s has been making donations to local food pantries
- The Long Island East End Group purchased 15,000 masks for distribution to front line providers.
- The Estée Lauder Companies provided 10,000 hand sanitizer bottles (8 ounces each) per week for 4-5 weeks
- Owners of Shinn Estate Vineyards donate $100,000 to Eastern Long Island Hospitals
- LI Jobs with Justice Solidarity Fund
- Long Island Ambulatory Surgery Center donated a Ventilator
- In addition the United Way, The Townwide Fund of Huntington and the 1763 Foundation are all raising money to distribute to folks that meet their guidelines.  
- The Long Island Chinese American Association volunteers, donated 10,000 masks and delivered lunch to first responders.
- Jim Hagedorn from Scotts Miracle-Gro donated $110,000 worth of protective equipment for first responders. 
- $250,000 New York Jets for direct worker assistance
- $250,000 Bank of America for direct worker assistance
- The Knapp Swezey Foundation has donated $500,000 to Patchogue charities.
- Sterling Bank provided $5,000 to Central Islip Food Bank
- National Grid provides support to local food pantries

• The United Way has a fund to assist low income wage earners who were either (1) laid off or (2) furloughed from their jobs due to COVID-19.  People can search for assistance here.

Nationwide Sales and Service Inc, a Long Island based manufacturer and distributor of janitorial products, donated $800,000 worth of PPE equipment to Long Island Police Officers

Nationally
- JP Morgan Chase has committed $50 million
- Lowes has announced $25 million in grants and in-kind donations
- Citi Foundation has announced a $15 million fund
- Google has announced $15 million in cash grants
- Citizens Bank has announced $5 million
- Anna Wintour has set up a fund for folks in the fashion industry who are displaced.
- A number of grants for displaced local artists are starting to emerge
- Bank of America has dedicated a $100 million fund nationwide.
- Verizon has set up a small business recovery fund.

• While we have not seen much in the corporate philanthropy department one fantastic exception has been the LI Community Foundation.   They have distributed $450,000 to a number of local organizations helping real people.   Check it out.

There is still a dearth of real community level information and tons of questions from folks stay tuned daily for updates on the range of actions taken to get us through this public health and economic crisis. 

We need you out there to tell is what is happening and what resources are available.   No matter what please join the LI Main Street Alliance by emailing us at ea@visionlongisland.org or call 631-804-9128.  

You can read previous editions of Long Island Main Street News here.

IMPORTANT WEBSITES TO TRACK:

Northwell Health Digital Resource Center

The US Small Business Administration

New York State Department of Labor

NYS Department of Health

CDC Website

Occupational Safety and Health

New York City

Nassau County

Suffolk County

Town of Hempstead

Town of North Hempstead

Town of Oyster Bay

Town of Babylon

Town of Brookhaven

Town of East Hampton

Town of Huntington

Town of Islip

Town of Riverhead

Town of Shelter Island

Town of Smithtown

Town of Southampton

Town of Southold

City of Glen Cove

City of Long Beach

MTA Information

School Closings

AARP's Updates on the Coronavirus

Island Harvest's Food Pantry Tracker

Suffolk County Alliance of Chamber's Disaster Relief Information

Global Dashboard of Infection Data

Worldometers Coronavirus totals in the US

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At this time of uncertainty, we are beginning to see a number of downtowns being shuttered as bars, restaurants, and any place where multiple people congregate are running up against fears of and caution at spreading the Coronavirus. While this is a socially responsible action that will help to save lives, in the short term these actions are having a number of adverse effects on our local communities.

Vision Long Island and Long Island Main Street Alliance members have collected a number of experiences from local restaurants and service businesses, but before we go into that we would like to encourage everyone reading this to find a way to responsibly patronize local establishments. Many stores are offering curbside pickup or online shopping to help them get through this difficult time. And your favorite restaurants are also currently open for business with takeout available.

We also urge you to consider gift cards in order to purchase something at a later date for yourself, or perhaps to give as a present.

Local shops are in a capable position to provide you with what you need in the short-term. Many will also be willing to accommodate you if you contact them ahead of time with requests that will minimize contact and help to lower the spread of this virus.

Vision has connected to over 600 small businesses in nearly 50 downtowns as they weather the economic storm through the Coronavirus. We encourage people to responsibly patronize these and other open establishments who need your help in this time of crisis.

Many of these businesses have been there for local organizations and philanthropy - they now need our support.

In the meantime, here is the featured downtown for today.

For a complete list of downtowns profiles, please check out our website here.

Sag Harbor

Sag Harbor, a Village of two square miles, is rich with history. The Village has changed dramatically from the old whaling and industrial days, although preservation and zoning laws strive to honor its history and help keep the area’s old-world charm intact.  What was once a simple Main Street has grown into a business district that expands throughout the village and is now home to a wide collection of high-end design, clothing and home good stores. More than 20 restaurants and bars can be found in Sag Harbor, providing a lively nightlife for both residents and visitors to enjoy.

The recent coronavirus shutdown has predictably impacted Sag Harbor and the Village government has been working to address the “now normal,” as Sag Harbor Village Mayor Kathleen Mulcahy calls it.

The very things that have made Sag Harbor Village a popular destination, its mix of shops, restaurants, parks, and cultural institutions, will complicate the process of emerging from the current Covid-19 shutdown, Mayor Mulcahy said recently in an interview with The East Hampton Star. “When we reopen it will be a different animal.”

The Village has created a task force to help develop plans for a safe reopening of the commercial district when the time comes. Until then, it is important to continue to support local restaurants to help them survive this difficult time.

Here is a list of many Sag Harbor restaurants open for take-out, curbside pickup and/or delivery.

Cappelletti Restaurant
631-725-7800

Cilantro's Mexican
631-725-4555

Dopo La Spiaggia
631-725-7009

Ed’s Lobster Bar
631-725-1131

Espresso da Asporto
631-725-5668

Estia’s Little Kitchen
631-725-1045

Harbor Market & Kitchen
631-725-4433

Il Cappucino
631-725-2747

K Pasa
631-800-8226

Lulu Kitchen & Bar
631-725-0900

M.J. Dowling's
631-725-4444

Page At 63 Main
631-725-1810

Rowdy Hall
631-324-8555

Sag Pizza
631-725-3167

Sen Restaurant
631-725-1774

Sen Sag Harbor
631-725-1774

The Beacon
631-725-7088

The Bell & Anchor
631-725-3400

The Coast Grill
631-283-2277

Tutto Il Giorno
631-919-5353

Wölffer Kitchen Sag Harbor
631-725-0101

Sayville

Sayville is known for its beauty, water sports, championship golf course, Long Island Maritime Museum and a friendly and eclectic downtown business district. In an effort to keep Sayville’s non-essential businesses, stores, boutiques and restaurants afloat during this health crisis, the Greater Sayville Chamber has created the “Small Business Relief Fund,” and the community has embraced it in a big way.

According to the Chamber, “The Sayville Chamber Small Business Relief Fund was set up specifically for our small businesses in the Greater Sayville downtown area that are suffering financially during this COVID crisis.” The Chamber explains, “100% of the proceeds will go back directly to those businesses in need to be able to set up online sales via websites, advertise, order stock when they reopen, signage, costs of rent, utilities etc. and much more. They have been there for us, now let's be there for them when they need us.”

To date, $10,955 has been raised by the community. From the Cherry Avenue PTA, the Sayville Girls Lacrosse team, friends and family on Garfield Avenue, the residents and businesses in Sayville are showing their love for their town through their exceptional generosity.

The messages of support say it all:  “We love our town,” “Stay Safe, Stay Strong,” “Hang in there business owners,” “Looking forward to seeing you all again very soon,” “Love our town,” and “We are all in this together.”

Kudos to the Sayville community for coming together to support their local businesses and the Greater Sayville Chamber for providing this opportunity.

NYS Stay-at-Home Order Extended to May 28th as Cuomo Announces Reopening of Central NY Regions; Long Island to Remain on Lockdown

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has announced an extension of his stay at home order until May 28th across the state with the exception of a number of regions that have met benchmarks for reopening.  At the same time, the order extends several emergency “suspensions” and “modifications” of laws through June 13th.

The North Country, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, and Mohawk Valley regions of the state have all met the requirements necessary to begin phase 1 of the Governor’s re-opening plan.  These five regions can now begin to open businesses for phase one, which includes construction, manufacturing, and wholesale supply chains.  Retail stores will also be allowed to engage in curbside pickup and drop-off or in-store pickup, and agriculture, forestry, and fishing will all be allowed to re-open as well.

Unfortunately, Long Island took a step back from re-opening this week.  The region went from meeting five of the seven requirements to re-open back to four.  This is due to new cases rising in Suffolk County, which continues to be number 2 in the state so far as new cases go, only surpassed by New York City.

While it looks like we won’t be returning to business anytime soon, we are hopeful that numbers will allow Main Street businesses the ability to start selling to customers once again.  As of now numerous businesses are suffering under the regulations that, while keeping local residents safer, is devastating economies across our region.

Here is the information from the governor’s website concerning the re-openings:

Amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that as of today, Central New York has met all seven metrics required to begin phase one of the state's regional phased reopening plan when NYS onPAUSE orders expire on May 15th, joining the North Country, Finger Lakes, Southern Tier and Mohawk Valley Regions. If the trend continues, these fiveregions can begin opening businesses for phase one, which includes construction; manufacturing and wholesale supply chain; retail for curbside pickup and drop-off or in-store pickup; and agriculture, forestry and fishing. Business guidance for phase one of the state's reopening plan is available here. A guide to the state's "NY Forward Reopening" Plan is available here. The state's regional monitoring dashboard is available here.

The Governor also announced an initial $3 million in grants are available to businesses to manufacture emergency medical supplies and equipment.Companies interested in growing or starting a medical supply business should go to www.esd.ny.gov.

Governor Cuomo also announced that President Trump has expedited $3.9 billion in funding for the MTA at the request of the Governor.

"All the arrows are pointed in the right direction and now the question becomes focused on reopening - people have to get back to work and the state needs an economy - but we have to make sure we don't reopen too soon," Governor Cuomo said. "We are doing this in a calibrated way and monitoring the data, facts and metrics every single day and using the lessons we've learned from others who have already gone through this. And right now, based on our criteria we have five regions that are poised to reopen beginning tomorrow, and as they start to reopen certain businesses we will continue to monitor the level of activity and make sure it doesn't create a second wave of this virus."

Finally, the Governor confirmed 2,390 additional cases of novel coronavirus, bringing the statewide total to 343,051 confirmed cases in New York State.

You can watch the Governor’s full press conference here.

Calendar of Events

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!

• LIBN invites you to join their team every Friday at 2PM on libnow, LIBN's live end-of-week recap, where they take the pulse of the Long Island business community and chat with experts on the state of their industry.

Participate in an interactive Q&A where YOU tell them what your business needs to know to stay ahead of the curve, as Long Island inches toward going back-to-business.

You can register for the event here.

The Alzheimer's Association's Long Island Chapter will be holding a series of educational Webinars on a number of topics including the following:

Effective Communication Strategies; Monday, May 18th from 6:00 to 7:00 pm
Understanding Alzheimer's & Dementia; Monday, May 18th from 3:00 to 4:00 pm
Dementia Conversations; Wednesday, May 20th from 3:30 to 4:30 pm
Understanding & Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors; Thursday, May 21st from 2:00 to 3:00 pm

To register for a program and learn how to participate, call 800-272-3900 or email mamadigan@alz.org

• KPMG is hosting a webinar on optimizing the boardroom today for tomorrow and how to maintain nonprofit leadership in the time of COVID-19. The webinar will take place on May 18th from 4 pm to 5pm. Panelists will discuss the challenges and decisions being made in this time of uncertainty.

You can register for this event here.

The Long Island Press is hosting a webinar this coming Wednesday, May 20th at 10:30 am that will help to teach people how to ensure their employees are returning to work in a safe, compl;iant and effective manner. Experts will be on hand to talk about adminstering the Family First Coronavirus Response Act, New York leaves, creating a successful 'Return to the Workplace' business action plan, review classifications and job descriptions, and more.

You can register now at www.longislandpress.com/backtowork or on zoom here. Space is limited so please try and do so asap.

There will be a webinar for Business Plan Writing this coming Thursday, May 21st starting at 9:30 am. You can register for the Zoom meeting here.

The 2020 INNkeepers' Ball Limited Edition Silent Auction is fully LIVE!  Please go to the website and start bidding!

It's easy, follow the instructions below and you're all set!

  • Register online at https://INNBall20.givesmart.com
  • Browse the Silent Auction Items and choose from the many great items you would like to bid on.
  • Place your bid on a selected item, with an option of setting a maximum bid.
  • You will be notified on your smartphone if you have been outbid.
Registering online is the quickest, easiest way to place bids in the Silent Auction! This can be done at any time. Simply click here! Enter your name, contact information, and payment method. Registering online will also help to provide you with a speedy check-in and check-out at the event.

If you have any questions, please contact Nora White, Director of Events at (516) 532-4640 or nwhite@the-inn.org.

Funding Opportunity: Smart Growth America's Arts & Transportation Rapid Response Grant

COVID-19 has created a number of challenges related to transportation: busy streets are now empty; incidents of speeding have increased dramatically; sidewalks are narrow and overcrowded. In response, Smart Growth America has launched the Arts & Transportation Rapid Response grant. This grant provides an opportunity for local transportation agencies to partner with an artist to creatively mitigate transportation challenges related to coronavirus. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through May 26th and reviewed starting on May 14th.

Learn more and apply here

CDC Guidelines on Coronavirus Prevention

As concern about the ever-expanding impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) grows, we can minimize or prevent the spread of coronavirus by taking these steps:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.  Wash or sanitize your hands thoroughly.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a household cleaning spray or antiseptic wipe.
  • Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
    • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
    • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).

These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.

For more information see the CDC website or call the NY State Coronavirus hotline to speak with a representative 888-364-3065

Our Daily Sponsor


Zyscovich Architects

For nearly forty years, Zyscovich Architects has strived to create projects with purpose, bringing new life and vibrancy to cityscapes through integrated urban planning, architecture and interior design. To this day, Zyscovich Architects has remained true to the original concept: design projects that have purpose and meaning. Since the firm’s inception in 1977, the goal has always been to establish a company that can provide high-value services for design-specific issues while placing “social betterment” at the core of everything they do. 

Zyscovich Architects has designed the full spectrum of projects, from transportation facilities and airports to K-12 schools and universities, mixed-use commercial and public-private partnership developments to multi-family residential high rises and master plans for cities. 

Smart Talk

Contributors:
Eric Alexander, Director; Tawaun Weber, Assistant Director;
Christopher Kyle, Communications Director; Elissa Kyle, Placemaking Director; Linda Henninger, Outreach Coordinator

We strive to provide continued quality publications like this every week. If you have any news or events that you would like to add to our newsletter, submit them to info@visionlongisland.org for consideration.

If you are interested in becoming a newsletter or news blast sponsor, please call the office at 631-261-0242 for rates and opportunities.

Vision Long Island
24 Woodbine Ave., Suite Two
Northport, NY 11768
Phone: 631-261-0242. Fax: 631-754-4452.
Email: info@visionlongisland.org

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