|
Dear Friends,
As we begin to celebrate Black History Month, let us be sure to honor and share the rich history, accomplishments, and contributions of Black Americans throughout the year, as we strive to eradicate racism and injustice and fulfill America’s promise to all.
We have just had two action-packed weeks in Albany. I was pleased to chair the first meeting of the Senate Committee on Education, and then to hold the Joint Budget Hearing on Lower and Secondary Education, where many witnesses explained the potentially devastating impact of the Governor’s proposed education budget.
Recently, I joined my fellow elected officials, local clergy members, and a huge crowd of supporters to stand united against hate in all its forms and to call out the anti-semitic graffiti at the Golden Horseshoe shopping center in Scarsdale/New Rochelle. I continue to advocate for funds to address antisemitism and islamophobia in our schools, and believe we must do more to focus on educating our students, and making sure students, staff and families feel safe in their schools.
As the Senate and Assembly each move toward proposing their One-House budget resolutions, we have begun the process of holding budget hearings. These hearings allow us, the lawmakers, to hear directly from individuals and organizations in our districts so we can make sure the state budget addresses their needs and concerns. You will have an opportunity to make your voice heard during the Westchester Senate Delegation Budget forums. More details and how to register are below.
Please also join me in sending love to vets with our Valentine’s Day for Vets event! My staff will be at Grinton I. Will Library in Yonkers this Wednesday, February 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. for a fun afternoon of Valentine card creation. You can also make your own and then drop off your cards at a number of locations throughout Westchester. More information is below.
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please email me at smayer@nysenate.gov or call (914) 934-5250.
Warm regards,
| |
|
Shelley B. Mayer
State Senator
37th District
| |
|
First Meeting of the Senate Education Committee
Last week, I chaired the first meeting of the Senate Education Committee of 2024. It is an honor to work with my colleagues to consider bills that will uphold New York’s commitment to ensure every child in New York receives a quality education.
Learn more about committee meetings here.
| |
|
Budget Hearings on Education, Transportation, Public Protection
Over the past two weeks I have participated in a number of hearings on the State Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Executive Budget. Last Thursday, I co-chaired the Lower and Secondary Education Hearing. We heard 10 hours of testimony on every aspect of the proposed budget for education, especially the impact of the proposed school aid cuts to our schools here in Westchester and throughout the state. You can watch the upcoming budget hearings live at nysenate.gov.
| |
|
Advocating for EMS and Fire Communities
I was proud to join the New York State Association of Counties (NYSAC), my colleagues, and leaders of the EMS community to advocate for a package of bills that will prioritize EMS personnel and ensure they receive the respect and recognition they deserve for their heroic work as “essential providers.” The bill I co-sponsor with Assemblymember Steve Otis, S4020-B/ A.3392-B, is the first priority of this group and I look forward to its passage this year. Sincere thanks to NYSAC for their leadership on this issue, and to the EMS and fire community for their dedication to serving others. Special thanks to Rye Brook Village Administrator Chris Bradbury, who I was pleased to show around the Capitol, for his persistent efforts on this critical issue.
| |
|
Advocating for After School Programs
I was happy to join the NYS Network for Youth Success to call for additional funding to support after-school programs. I have long supported after school programs for every school in New York for the quality educational value they provide, the opportunity for play and physical activity, the mentoring of supportive adults, and the need for working parents to have quality, affordable full-day programs for their children.
| |
|
Rally for Early Literacy
I was pleased to join the New York Campaign for Early Literacy rally to emphasize the need to address the literacy crisis in New York. The ability to read proficiently is essential to our students’ success in school, at work, and as they make their way in the world. As Chair of the Senate Education Committee, I am committed to working with our teachers, administrators, and school communities to ensure children are taught scientifically sound methods to become strong and confident readers. Thank you to Governor Hochul for making this issue so central to her budget proposal this year.
| |
|
Healthy School Meals
I was pleased to join my colleagues to advocate for fully funded school meals across the state. Last year we extended breakfast and lunch to almost 80% of the state’s school children, and this effort would make it universal for every school. I thank the Healthy School Meals for All New York coalition for their advocacy and Senator Michelle Hinchey and Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas for championing this effort.
| |
|
|
Rally for the NY HEAT Act
I was happy to stand with friends and colleagues to support including the New York HEAT Act in this year’s budget. Let’s reduce the cost of energy as we transition to a more sustainable future!
| |
|
Support for Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center
I was proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with my colleagues from Scarsdale, New Rochelle, and Westchester County, local clergy, and a huge crowd of supporters in response to the antisemitic vandalism perpetrated against businesses in the Golden Horseshoe Shopping Center. Together we lifted our voices in support of the Jewish community and proclaimed that hate of any kind has no home in our towns, our county or our state.
| |
|
Scarsdale PTC Legislative Advocacy Breakfast
I was pleased to participate in the Scarsdale PTC Legislative Advocacy Breakfast to answer terrific questions posed by students on a range of issues affecting our schools. I’m honored to represent and advocate for all the exceptional schools in my district.
| |
|
Mamaroneck Students Head to New Hampshire
I was excited to join the send-off of Mamaroneck High School students who went off to New Hampshire to cover and participate in working on the recent Republican primary there. They had a terrific experience, and got a first-hand look at the personal side of political races.
| |
|
|
Sun Salutation at Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh
My friends in the Hindu community graciously invited me (once again) to participate in their Sun Salutation organized by Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA, Inc. I value their friendship and patience with my skills!
| |
|
Recruiting “Serjeant” Historical Program
I was fortunate to stop at Tuckahoe Public Library for the Recruiting “Serjeant” Historical Program and to recognize Michael Grillo for his work keeping history alive through his portrayal of Revolutionary era individuals.
| |
|
New York State Budget Forum, Hosted by the Westchester State Senate Delegation
Please join community members, advocates and other interested parties for two community budget forums regarding the proposed 2024-25 NYS Budget. We welcome anyone’s opinion as written or oral testimony. Each speaker will have up to two (2) minutes to speak. If you or someone you know would like to submit testimony ahead of or after the event, it can be submitted to westchestersenatedelegation@gmail.com.
There will be two opportunities to testify:
Thursday, February 8, 2024 • 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. (in person)
Greenburgh Town Hall, 177 Hillside Ave., White Plains, NY 10607
All are welcome to attend, but you must register to speak
Thursday, February 22, 2024 • 6 - 8 p.m.
Via Zoom - you must register to receive the Zoom link
The events will be streamed live on Facebook: Facebook.com/Andrea.StewartCousins (A Facebook account is not required to watch.)
Pre-registration is required to testify. Register at bit.ly/BudgetSignUp2024.
|  | |
|
Acompañe a miembros de la comunidad, defensores y otras partes interesadas en dos foros sobre presupuesto comunitario para el estado de Nueva York 2024-25. Damos la bienvenida a la opinión de cualquier persona como testimonio escrito u oral. Cada orador tendrá hasta dos (2) minutos para hablar. Si usted o alguien que conoce desea enviar un testimonio antes o después del evento, puede enviarlo a westchestersenatedelegation@gmail.com.
Habrá dos oportunidades para declarar:
Jueves 8 de febrero de 2024 • 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. (en persona)
Ayuntamiento de Greenburgh, 177 Hillside Ave., White Plains, NY 10607
Todos son bienvenidos a asistir, pero debes registrarte para hablar.
Jueves 22 de febrero de 2024 • 6 - 8 p.m.
A través de Zoom: debe registrarse para recibir el enlace de Zoom
Los eventos se transmitirán en vivo en Facebook: Facebook.com/Andrea.StewartCousins (no se requiere una cuenta de Facebook para verlos).
Se requiere inscripción previa para testificar. Regístrese en bit.ly/BudgetSignUp2024.
| |
|
Valentines for Veterans
Help us send love to our local veterans this Valentine’s Day! Join our staff at Grinton I. Will Library in Yonkers on Wednesday, February 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. for a fun afternoon of Valentine card creation, or drop off your own cards at any of the locations listed below. Deadline for drop-off is Monday, February 12.
| |
|
Grinton I. Will Library
1500 Central Park Ave.
Yonkers, NY 10710
Town of Mamaroneck Town Hall
740 W. Boston Post Rd.
Mamaroneck, NY 10543
| |
|
Pound Ridge Town House
179 Westchester Ave.
Pound Ridge, NY 10576
NYS Sen. Shelley Mayer’s Office
235 Mamaroneck Ave., Suite 400
White Plains, NY 10605
| |
Here Today, Gone Tomorrow: What the Birds and Bees Act Means for Neonicotinoid Use in New York State
The Cornell Cooperative Extension will be having a webinar to learn about the current use of neonicotinoids; the pests they are suitable for, potential impacts to beneficial organisms and optimal use of neonics. They will discuss new legislation related to the use of neonicotinoids which was recently enacted. Current alternatives to neonics will also be discussed with emphasis on preventative management strategies and curative management. They will also dive into the challenges of finding alternatives to these products and will address where these alternatives may be lacking compared to the neonics. Register here.
| |
|
Free After-School Programming at Clay Arts Center
Clay Arts Center’s free “Around the World in Clay” program offers Port Chester middle- and high school students the opportunity to learn about the history and importance of ceramics in various cultures around the world while giving each student the freedom to interpret and create themed projects using their own unique perspectives and imagination. Space is limited but there is still time to register online, here.
MONDAYS: For Port Chester Middle School students
Time: 4 - 5:30 p.m.
Location: Clay Art Center
Dates: 1/22, 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/26, 3/4, 3/11, 3/18
(No class: 1/15, 2/19)
TUESDAYS: For Port Chester High School students
Time: 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. (2 hours)
Location: Clay Art Center
Dates: 1/16, 1/23, 1/30, 2/6, 2/13, 2/27, 3/5, 3/12
(No class: 2/20)
| |
|
Larchmont Farmers Market, Saturdays, Year-Round
The Larchmont Farmers Market is open year-round, sells fresh local food, and accepts EBT/SNAP. It takes place every Saturday between 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. on the Metro North parking deck off Chatsworth Avenue. Enter via Myrtle Boulevard.
| |
Vandals Spray Anti-Semitic Graffiti on Scarsdale Store Windows | |
'Profoundly disappointed': Hundreds of NY schools could get less state money in new budget | |
Hochul's school aid reductions panned at legislative budget hearing | |
NYC schools would lose $131 million under proposed changes to state funding formula, officials say | |
|
Seeking Interns for my District Office
I am seeking high school and college students who are interested in serving as interns in my office in White Plains.
The internship provides participants an opportunity to learn more about the work and daily operations of a NYS Senate district office. Interns will work closely with my staff in one or more areas -- assisting constituents, tracking community issues, doing legal research, maintaining databases, and/or working with our media and communications team. General office support may also be required. Applicants should have strong writing skills and a strong work ethic.
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume by email to Maryanne Joyce at mjoyce@nysenate.gov.
The deadline to submit an application for the summer program is March 15, 2024. Prospective interns will receive a decision by mid-April.
| |
|
Accepting Nominations for Youth Leadership Recognition Awards
Is there a high school sophomore, junior or senior you know who deserves to be recognized as a leader in their community? Teachers or school administrators can nominate students who excel academically or through extracurricular and volunteer activities for the New York State Senate Youth Leadership Recognition Award. Click here for more information and to nominate. All nominations must be submitted by March 22, 2024.
| |
|
Seeking Nominations for the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry
The Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) is seeking nominations to the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry. This registry recognizes businesses that have been in operation for at least 50 years and have contributed to their community’s history. The program is an opportunity for state elected officials (State Senate and Assembly members) to recognize and celebrate the contributions of historic businesses in their district.
Businesses that meet the criteria are listed on an interactive online map. They also receive a certificate and a window decal announcing their inclusion into the Historic Business Preservation Registry. If you know of a business in Senate District 37 that you believe should be added to the registry, please contact me at degenaro@nysenate.gov with the business’ name and address.
| |
|
Nationwide Webinar to Help Nonprofits Access COVID Relief Funds
Tens of billions of dollars of Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds funds are available through the American Rescue Plan Act for charitable nonprofits until the end of 2024. The National Council of Nonprofits is hosting a free nationwide webinar to make these organizations aware they are eligible for these funds, to explain how to access them, and to offer advice on the best ways to use them. Treasury Deputy Secretary Wally Adeyemo will kick off the discussion. The one-hour event will be held on Tuesday, January 30 at 3 p.m. Eastern. Register here.
| |
|
Operation Prom Formal Wear Giveaway 2024
Operation Prom is giving away free prom dresses and tuxedos!
Where: Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains, NY 10606
When:
-
Friday, April 26, 1 - 5 p.m. High school seniors with valid HS ID or transcript must register here.
- Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Seniors with valid HS ID or transcript can just show up!
- Sunday, April 28, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Open to all. Dresses only; $10 donation per dress.
| |
|
News from the NYS Department of Labor:
Valuable Tax Credits Available
Businesses in District 37 can take advantage of a number of tax credits that help cut costs and make hiring easier:
- The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) offers employers up to $2,400 in federal tax savings for hiring individuals with barriers to employment.
- The Workers (with Disabilities) Employment Tax Credit (WETC) offers $2,100 in state tax credits for businesses that employ people with disabilities who currently receive vocational rehabilitation services.
- The Federal Bonding Program provides six months of no-cost fidelity bonding coverage to businesses that hire eligible job seekers.
You can find a complete list of tax credits and funding opportunities on the Department of Labor website.
| |
Get a No-Cost Home Energy Assessment
All New York homeowners of one-to-four family homes can get a no-cost energy assessment. The assessment, sometimes called an energy audit, provides you with a top-to-bottom look at where your home is wasting energy and flags any potential health or safety issues.
New Yorkers can connect with a contractor in their area through the Residential Energy Assessment Program to complete an assessment, or apply to EmPower+ if they’re income-eligible to receive discounts on energy efficiency upgrades following the assessment. Learn more here.
| | | | |
