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

July 2nd, 2020

Quotes of Day

“I’d like to thank Senator Schumer for his part in securing the funding for this Island Harvest initiative... Senator Schumer’s continued support from the beginning of the pandemic with regards to CARES Act funding has been invaluable and the Town is truly grateful.” - Hon. Don Clavin, Town of Hempstead     “The economic upheaval caused by the pandemic has created an unprecedented demand for food assistance, including among people who have never sought help before, the funding will help us to make sure that no one goes without something as basic as food.” - Randi Dresner, Island Harvest

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

Helping Main Street through the
Coronavirus Shutdown

Day 109 of Coronavirus Economic Shutdown –
Thursday July 2nd, 2020

The Coronavirus economic shutdown is on day 109.  Big support from the Town of Hempstead to address food insecurity.  More downtown communities are advancing outdoor dining and closing down streets.  The SBA’s PPP program may extend into August 8th if the President supports the measure which passed the House and the Senate.  Folks are urged to be safe this weekend as we celebrate the 4th of July weekend in our communities with our families and friends.   

Here are some updates:

•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/

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

•Town of Hempstead Supervisor Don Clavin joined local gyms and fitness centers to call for a reopening of these businesses in coordination with Phase 4 on July 8^th.

https://hempsteadny.gov/press-releases/2401-clavin-desposito-gym-owners-call-for-safe-reopening-of-fitness-centers-on-long-island

•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.

• Vision Board, staff and members of the LI Main Street Alliance were out last week with our community partners to celebrate the sequential reopening of our communities as per NY's Phase III guidelines
Phase III includes:
Restaurants will open for indoor dining (with new social distancing guidelines in place).

Personal care businesses, such as spas, massage therapy, nail salons, and cosmetology will be able to reopen in accordance with new distancing requirements.

Tattoo and piercing shops will be allowed to resume business.

Information on how each business in Phase III operates can be found here. https://forward.ny.gov/phase-three-industries.
Fox 5's Jodi Goldberg did a collaborative story featuring downtown businesses in Westbury and Bethpage. Vision was also quoted.

• 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. ​

While Long Island just entered Phase 3 yesterday, businesses in Phase 4 are encouraged to read the guidelines, submit an affirmation, and complete and print the safety plan in order to begin preparing for the next phase.

• Vision was out in the Village of Westbury for reopening our Main Streets into Phase 3. We were working with local business owners, the Village and members of the Sidgmore Foundation who are helping with the "Split the Bill" program.  Erin Colton from News 12 stopped down and profiled the program and one of the restaurants. Check it out.

• Governor Cuomo announced that as the Long Island region entered Phase 3, the gathering limit increased to up to 25 people. 

• Statewide guidelines have been released for the activities and businesses set forth below.  Additional guidelines can be found on the NY Forward website under "statewide guidelines" or, click on this link: https://forward.ny.gov/statewide-guidelines. 

Child Care and Day Camps (day camps can reopen on June 26th) 
Lakes and ocean beaches 
Religious and Funeral Services 
Racing activities 
Dentistry (which includes orthodontics) 
Auto Racing 
Professional Sports Training Facilities 
Public Transportation 

• The Department of Motor Vehicles has resumed limited in-person services for transactions that cannot be done online or by mail or drop box. These services will be by reservation online to help the DMV to maintain social distancing while providing the services you need. You can make a reservation, or learn more about mail-in and drop box services, at dmv.ny.gov/reservation  
To learn more about what transactions may be completed online, visit https://dmv.ny.gov/more-info/all-online-transactions

• As the Moratorium on evictions ends in NYS many tenants are fearful.

• 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

• 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 http://www.uschamber.com/report/guide-the-main-street-lending-program

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.   https://nytransit.org/images/19853_NYPTA_COVID19_Recovery_and_Resoration_Report_R6_1_.pdf

• 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.

• The Governor also announced yesterday that the State will issue guidance to colleges and universities to allow some in person instruction and on campus housing for the fall semester. Campuses must develop a plan, which attests to meeting the guidance, and file the plans with the state

• Information about statewide guidelines can be found on the NY Forward website under "statewide guidelines": https://forward.ny.gov/statewide-guidelines. This link includes guidelines, affirmations, and safety plans for the following:
Child Care and Day Camps (day camps can reopen on June 26th)
Lake and Ocean Beaches
Religious and Funeral Services
Racing Activities
Dentistry (which includes orthodontics)
Auto Racing
Professional Sports Training Facilities
Public Transportation

• Sports and recreation guidance has been posted on the NY Forward website under "Statewide Guidance." It can be found at this link towards the bottom: https://forward.ny.gov/statewide-guidelines. This guidance is effective on July 6th in regions that have reached or surpassed Phase 3 of the State’s reopening.​​ Organizations must read and affirm guidance, as well as complete and print the safety plan.

These guidelines apply to non-professional and non-collegiate sports and recreation activities (e.g. youth sports), inclusive of indoor and outdoor sports and recreation, as well as organized and non-organized sports and recreation.

These guidelines also apply to outdoor sports and recreational activities conducted by gyms, fitness centers, training facilities, and other related facilities. However, gyms, fitness centers, and other such facilities are limited to no more participants than is allowed under the non-essential gathering restriction that is in effect for their region. Gyms, fitness centers, and other facilities are prohibited from conducting indoor activities at this time. Additional guidance on gyms and fitness centers is forthcoming to supplement these guidelines.​

• Some good news that came over Monday - 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: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghX6B8JPWTs   The fully revamped app - which still contains all your original TrainTime features - is now available for a free download through the App Store

• Governor Cuomo announced that hospitals and group homes will be allowed to accept visitors at their discretion. Any facility that chooses to allow visitors must follow state guidelines, including time-limited visits and requiring visitors to wear PPE and be subject to symptom and temperature checks. 

• 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: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/no-20238-continuing-temporary-suspension-and-modification-laws-relating-disaster-emergency

• 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. 

• A new bill led by Rep. Carolyn Maloney would create a federally backed business interruption insurance fund to cover losses from a pandemic.

• As we begin to slowly reopen our communities, its 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.

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Potential Extension of PPP Loan Program

Just hours before the SBA’s Payroll Protection Plan was set to end, the Senate extended the deadline to August 8th.  This came as the program was set to shut down with more than $130 billion in still untapped. While the legislation will still need signed by the president, the US House of Representatives joined the Senate on Wednesday in passing by unanimous consent the 5 week extension. 

As many businesses still remain closed or only beginning to partially reopen in New York, economic support is desperately needed to avoid them closing their doors permanently. Other areas of the country are just beginning to feel the affects of the coronavirus as it spreads across the nation, leaving business owners to also need federal assistance.

Lack of promotion and education of this program has played a large role in such a large amount of funds going unused.  While the SBA has done some promoting of the program, it has been largely left to grassroot efforts and “word of mouth” to get out information on this program.  Many groups have been hosting conference calls and webinars to better help businesses decide if this program will provide the aide they need.  This extension would allow for those organizations to continue their efforts to help save our small businesses and hopefully give the SBA an opportunity to increase their promotion of the program. 

For more on this story, click here.  

Main Street Alliance Hears the NY Forward Loan Program

On Tuesday, June 30th, Long Island Main Street Alliance held a joint Nassau/Suffolk meeting via Zoom. Over 35 downtowns were represented, including chambers, mayors, and civics. The agenda included reopening Main Street updates, preparing for Phase 4 business openings, update on food assistance and an introduction to the New York Forward Loan Fund (NYFLF).

An explanatory presentation regarding the NYFLF was furnished by Ms. Huey-Min Chuang, Senior Director of Business and Economic Development, of the Empire State Development Corp.

By way of introduction, Vision Long Island Executive Director Eric Alexander explained the New York Forward Loan Fund will pick up where the PPP leaves off.

Ms. Chaung explained the New York Forward Loan Fund (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 COVID-19 outbreak and NYS on PAUSE.

It targets the state’s small businesses with 20 or fewer full-time equivalent (FTE) employees (90% of all businesses), nonprofits and small landlords that have seen a loss of rental income. The working capital loans are timed to support businesses and organizations as they proceed to reopen and have upfront expenses to comply with guidelines (e.g., inventory, marketing, refitting for new social distancing guidelines) under the New York Forward Plan.   

These loans are available to small businesses, nonprofits, and small landlords 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. The loans are not forgivable in part or whole. The loans will need to be paid back over a 5-year term with first year interest only and the last 4 years are a straight-line interest and principal repayments.

Applications for the New York Forward Loan Fund will be open based on the industries and regions that have been reopened. This is not a first-come, first-served loan program. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis as regions and industries reopen.

For small businesses and nonprofits that are in industries and regions that have not yet reopened, you are encouraged to prepare your pre-application in advance by taking advantage of the application preparation resources available at https://esd.ny.gov/nyforwardloans-info#organizations-available-to-assist.

Currently there is 100 million dollars allocated for the Loan Fund, potentially there could be additional resources. 65% of the loan is reserved for small businesses; 30% for small landlords; and 5% for nonprofit organizations. Pre applications are now open at www.nyloanfund.com.

The geographic proportionality goals for the New York Forward Loan Fund for small businesses are:

·         Capital Region 4%

·         Central NY Region 4%

·         Finger Lakes Region 4%

·         Hudson Valley Region 12%

·         Long Island Region 18%

·         Mohawk Valley Region 4%

·         NYC Region 30%

·         North Country Region 4%

·         Southern Tier Region 4%

·         Western NY Region 8%

Five Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) have been processing pre-applications as of June 1, 2020. The application portal will help you choose the best lender for your industry.

Small businesses can apply for a loan in the amount of the lesser of (a) $100,000 or (b) up to 100% of average monthly revenues in any 3-month period from 2019 or first quarter of 2020. The fixed annual interest rate on the loan will be 3%. Proceeds are required to be used for working capital, inventory, marketing, refitting for new social distancing guidelines, operating and emergency maintenance, property taxes, utilities, rent, supplies, etc. Refinancing of an existing loan is not permitted. The loan applicant will be required to detail anticipated use of funds upon application. There are no application fees. Late fee will be assessed for missed payments. No collateral is required and the borrower may prepay the loan without penalty.

To be eligible for a New York Forward Loan Fund working capital loan, a small business must meet the following requirements:

·         Employ 20 or fewer full-time equivalent (FTE) employees for both small businesses;

·         Have gross revenues of less than $3 million per year;

·         Have not received a loan from either SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) for COVID-19 in 2020;

·         Have suffered a direct economic hardship as a result of COVID-19 related social distancing policies and stay-at-home order that have materially impacted their operations;

·         Been in business for at least 1 year as of the date of loan application; and

·         Located in the State of New York.

The online pre-application should be completed and submitted by the owner of the business with the largest ownership interest.

The following businesses are not currently eligible for a loan from the Fund: corporate-owned franchises, not-for-profit social clubs, branch banks, pay day loan stores, pawn shops, astrology, palm reading, liquor stores, night clubs, adult bookstores, massage parlors, strip clubs, track wagering facilities, trailer-storage yards, and marijuana dispensaries.

The loan applicant must provide the following documentation:

·         Most recently filed tax returns, if available and required by the lender; if not available, internally generated financial statements or other documentation used to determine cash flows;

·         Schedule of ownership (name, address, Social Security number, phone number, email, percentage ownership, photo ID for any owners with more than 20% ownership);

·         Executed Attestation Form (to be provided by lender);

·         Brief description of COVID-19 impacts on jobs and revenues;

·         Evidence of legal formation of business entity (Articles of Incorporations and/or Bylaws); and

·         Personal Credit Report (if applicable).

A participating lender will reach out to the loan applicant to collect the required documentation, conduct any credit checks, and finalize the application review process.

Small Landlord and Nonprofit requirements and application information can be found at https://esd.ny.gov/nyforwardloans-info#organizations-available-to-assist.

Ms. Chaung stated she is available to provide even more detailed information to applicants, such as a review of what questions are specifically asked. Ms. Chaung’s contact information is 212-803-3238 or BAP@esd.ny.gov.

Kudos to the Empire State Development Corp for its proactive community outreach and to Ms. Chaung for such an informative presentation.

The New Workplace Post-Coronavirus

As business begins to reopen, many companies are having to reimagine and redesign their workspace to comply with new health and safety regulations.  With more than 3 months of quarantine, it is a challenge to many in this environment, particularly sorting out the guidance and changes you need to make.

Companies such as H2M Architects & Engineers has transformed their office layout for safety and distancing. Their principal architect and Vision Board member, Mike Bonacasa, provided an overview to Newsday in a video walking through of their office configuration.

Some of the changes included plexiglass barriers between facing cubicles, comprehensive measuring to allow for social distancing in shared spaces, and additional routine cleaning. Self-monitoring of employees has been requested by the company which includes safety measures like employees checking their temperature prior to coming into the office.  They have also allowed employees to return a few days a week to allow employees to reacclimate to the office an environment and reduce the occupancy of the building.  

For more on this story, visit Newsday.

Photo credit: Newsday

Island Harvest Receives $2.1 Million Grant from Town of Hempstead

New funding for a food delivery initiative was presented by the Town of Hempstead to Island Harvest in hopes to ease food insecurity for senior citizens, US military veterans, and residents in need. This funding was secured through the aid of Senator Charles Schumer.  Town of Hempstead Supervisor thanked Sen. Schumer for his assistance in his remarks.  “I’d like to thank Senator Schumer for his part in securing the funding for this Island Harvest initiative,” stated Supervisor Don Clavin. “Senator Schumer’s continued support from the beginning of the pandemic with regards to CARES Act funding has been invaluable and the Town is truly grateful.”

Councilman Bruce Blakeman was also grateful for the opportunity to work with Island Harvest in assisting residents in need. “The funding that Island Harvest has received from the Town is going to do so much good for the community,” said Councilman Bruce Blakeman. “Island Harvest has always been an essential service for so many, and the expansion of their programs and services will only further alleviate the burden of food insecurity.”

Island Harvest, a nonprofit on Long Island that has continuously been providing food to those in need for since 1992, has seen a significant rise in demand with this latest coronavirus pandemic. The organization is a part of the nation’s food bank network and distributes fresh produce, meat, and nonperishables to thousands of Long Island residents.

With this $2.1 million grant, Island Harvest will be able to expand their reach to residents including a “Harvest to Home” delivery service for those shut in.    “On behalf of food-insecure residents throughout the town, we thank Supervisor Don Clavin and the Hempstead Town Board for their invaluable assistance in securing much-needed funds to allow us to provide essential food support to people affected by the pandemic,” said Randi Shubin Dresner, president and CEO, Island Harvest Food Bank. “The economic upheaval caused by the pandemic has created an unprecedented demand for food assistance, including among people who have never sought help before, the funding will help us to make sure that no one goes without something as basic as food.”

For more on this, visit LI Times.

Upcoming Events

'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 3 - Previous great segments!
•July 10 - Nassau County Comptroller Jack Schnirman to discuss Office of Nassau County Comptroller Office Updates
•July 17 - Kathleen Otte (Bi-Regional Administrator, Administration for Community Living (ACL) to discuss Aging in Place Issues during these Challenging Times
•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.

Suffolk Host Food Truck Small Business Startup Seminar

For those looking for a small business opportunity that can stand on its own or lead to a larger business there is an upcoming webinar on Food Trucks. Some of the best downtown restaurants started as food trucks and in this climate, for this period of time, having a mobile outdoor eatery has its advantages.

The Suffolk County Departments of Economic Development and Planning and Department of Health Services will host a webinar July 7 for residents who want to start a food truck business. The webinar, which will start at 10 a.m., will discuss, opportunities in the market, how to get started, the permitting process, business recovery, success stories, and mistakes to avoid. Advance registration is required.

To register, click here. For more information, visit Huntington Now.

Free Hofstra Webinar CARE WORK in the COVID CRISIS - July 7th

As Long Island begins gradually reopening its economy, there are many questions and much controversy about the possible impacts on all employers, their employees and the public.

Hofstra invites you for the second program in a free, live online Hofstra University event: “Reopening Long Island and Building a Fair Economy,” a series on suburban labor organizing and worker power in the COVID pandemic and beyond. Presented by Hofstra Labor Studies and the Center for Labor and Democracy, in collaboration with Long Island Jobs with Justice and A.L.L.O.W. (Advancing Local Leadership Opportunities for Women).

Forum #2: CARE Work in the Covid Crisis: Challenges & Opportunities

July 7, 2-3:30 pm – live call-in program.

 Panelists:
•             Traci Levy, Associate Professor & Chair, Political Science, Adelphi University,
•             Jennifer Rojas, Executive Director, Child Care Council of Suffolk County,
•             Onika Shepherd-Bernabe, Long Island Political Director, 1199 SEIU

Moderator: Mary Anne Trasciatti, Director, Hofstra University Labor Studies Program

The COVID crisis closed schools and child care centers, compromised adult care facilities, and presented safety risks for home health workers, posing enormous financial and mental health challenges to millions of working people. Failure to resolve those challenges will threaten the prospects for building a fair and sustainable local and national economic recovery. Join the discussion on how best to rethink New York and national care policies for a more just and equitable future.

For more info, see attached publicity flyer, contact Kristine.M.Glanzer@hofstra.edu & visit: www.hofstra.edu/laborstudies. To register in advance, click on: https://events.hofstra.edu.

Advance free registration required: RSVP
Registrants will be sent a ZOOM event link to attend prior to the event.

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 14th 11am-12noon for Suffolk & July 22nd 11am-12noon for Nassau. 

For more information, contact Bernard Macias.

FMC Hosts 'Fast Chat' Series Starting July 21st

Babylon IDA Offers Grants to Businesses & Nonprofits

The Town of Babylon Business Improvement District is offering grants and interest-free loans as part of a new initiative geared to help businesses affected by Covid-19. The “Babylon is Back” Emergency Assistance program offers grants up to $10,000 and inter loans up to $25,000.

For more information, visit LIBN.

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.

Stay Safe and Healthy This 4th of July Weekend

As we head into the 4th of July weekend, Vision wants to encourage you to be cautious as we are still battling the coronavirus. We know folks are ready to head outside and enjoy the sun, but please keep in mind the health and safety regulations that put in place for our protection. Below are some of the guidelines and some fun ideas to help you have a safe and happy weekend.

As New York State moves through its phased reopening of businesses by industry and region, please check with venues and attractions for information on openings, capacity, and available amenities before making plans. For more information on the New York Forward business reopening plan, visit forward.ny.gov.   

Preventing the spread of coronavirus is important. Governor Cuomo issued executive orders 202.17 and 202.18 requiring any individual within the state who is over age two and able to medically tolerate a face-covering to cover their nose and mouth with a mask or cloth face-covering when in a public place or business and unable to maintain, or when not maintaining, social distance including when taking public or private transportation or riding in for-hire vehicles. The New York State Department of Health advises all people in New York to keep at least 6 feet distance from others when in public.

Please note New York State, New Jersey, and Connecticut have implemented a tri-state travel advisory that requires any individuals traveling from states with significant community spread of COVID-19 to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. More information on the advisory, including the daily updated list of which states the travel advisory applies to, can be found here.

We continue to monitor the situation and will provide tourism-related updates. Travelers are encouraged to visit the New York State Department of Health website. You can also sign up for coronavirus updates from Governor Cuomo. 

If you have a business that has been impacted by coronavirus, please visit Empire State Development for information on available resources.

Additional information:

• Hotels, marinas, campgrounds, and RV parks are open statewide.
• Public and private beaches statewide are allowed to operate with restrictions on capacity.
• There are a number of low-risk, outdoor recreational activities that are permitted statewide as long as social distancing and disinfecting procedures are followed including, drive-in theaters, tennis, golf, ziplining, ropes courses, and rental of non-motorized watercraft. For a full list, please refer to the following guidance found here. PDF File.
• Horse racing and car racing tracks statewide are allowed to operate without fans.
• For regions in Phase Three of reopening, outdoor and indoor dining at restaurants and bars is permitted, however restaurants and patrons will have to follow capacity and safety guidelines. For information on phases of reopening for regions across the state and safety guidelines/restrictions, visit forward.ny.gov.
• New York City is set to move to Phase Three by Monday, July 6, allowing for the resumption of personal care services and more outdoor recreation, such as tennis and basketball. Indoor dining will not be permitted in NYC until further notice.
• For regions in Phase Four of reopening, low-risk outdoor arts and entertainment such as zoos, botanical gardens, nature parks, grounds of historic sites and cultural institutions, outdoor museums, and outdoor agritourism/agricultural demonstrations will be allowed with restrictions. There are capacity restrictions and visitors will have to follow safety guidelines. More information on that can be found here. PDF File.
• For regions in Phase Four of reopening, low-risk indoor arts and entertainment such as indoor museums, historical sites, and aquariums will be allowed with restrictions. There are capacity restrictions and visitors will have to follow safety guidelines. More information on that can be found here. PDF File.

• The following locations are still NOT opened or occurring throughout New York State:
  • Places of public amusement (e.g., arcades, bowling alleys)
  • Casinos
  • Movie theaters
  • Indoor concerts, performing arts, or other theatrical productions
  • Amusement parks, water parks, and carnivals
  • Outdoor concerts, or performing arts in excess of the gathering limit in effect for the particular region
  • Non-essential common areas including, but not limited to, gyms, fitness centers or health clubs, saunas or steam rooms, children’s playrooms, and game rooms.
     
• Additional Resources
• CDC: 2019 Novel Coronavirus
• World Health Organization: Coronavirus
• Local NYS County Health Departments
• NYC Department of Health
• US Travel Association - Emergency Preparedness and Response: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Our Daily Sponsor

Certilman Balin

At Certilman Balin, their priority has always been their clients. They understand that the practice of law is a relationship business. That’s why they do more than work for you. They work with you.

Since 1965, they have been doing what they do best: serving the Long Island community. During this time, they met many people who became longtime clients, and many became lifelong friends. These relationships have grown and have helped them to develop diverse areas of practice, expanding their reach nationally and internationally.

They advocate for our clients. We also support their philanthropic endeavors. They understand the importance of giving back to their community, and they realize their clients helped them to become one of Long Island’s largest full-service law firms.

But don’t let their size fool you. They pride themselves on that small law firm atmosphere. When you need them, they are there to help. They make you their priority and respond promptly. When you have a legal issue, they apply their collective knowledge to ensure the best possible outcome.