OSSINING WEEKLY WEB BLAST APRIL 22, 2021
Village & Town Information
Helpful Information from the Village of Ossining, Westchester County & New York State
The Village of Ossining is committed to sharing up-to-date and relevant information regarding the COVID-19 Pandemic. In our weekly web blasts you will find this section dedicated to new information. For previously shared information, please visit the Village of Ossining's dedicated Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) page.
For daily COVID-19 updates be sure to check the New York State Department of Health COVID-19 Tracker and be sure to follow Westchester County their social media channels (Facebook and Twitter).
Each week, Mayor Rika Levin prepares a Mayoral Message for the Ossining community, which focuses on current Board and community issues. This message also includes various public interest matters, including programs, services, and events going on in the Village.

Westchester County Update
New York State Update
Thanks to the extraordinary efforts and commitment of our providers and volunteers, more than half of New Yorkers who are 18 and older have received at least one dose of a vaccine, and more than a third of adults are fully vaccinated. On top of that, COVID hospitalizations dropped to the lowest level since December 1. We need to keep pushing COVID back until the threat is gone and we can do that with a combination of the vaccine and the public health measures we know stop the spread. You take the vaccine not just for yourself—you take it to keep other people safe.

We know how the virus spreads, so it is simply a question of behavior and precautions if we hope to stop the spread as we vaccinate New York. The more precautions each of us take, the fewer people get infected. We're at a point now where we've communicated all the information that we can communicate and everyone knows the facts. New Yorkers have been asked to continue to take the risk seriously, but it is now up to each of us. It's up to you as an individual, you as a family, you as a community. Our recovery is going to be a function of how many vaccinations we take, and Governor Cuomo believes that there is a civic and community duty for each of us to take a vaccine. We'll only be safe when everyone is safe.

New Yorkers should be encouraged by the incredible progress they have made to decrease the infection rate and to get vaccinated. More than half of New York's adults have received at least one dose. Thanks to your hard work, we are continuing to open up even more of our economy. On April 26, movie theater capacity will increase to 33 percent. Low-risk indoor and outdoor arts and entertainment—including museums, aquariums, zoos and botanical gardens—will increase to 50 percent capacity also beginning April 26. Still, this should not be taken as a reason to let our guard down. On the contrary, we should all remain vigilant and continue to practice the behaviors we know work to stop COVID in its tracks—wear a mask, wash hands, social distance but also get vaccinated as soon as you can.

Our vaccine operation continues to make steady progress and we are thankful for the health professionals and the volunteers who are at the helm of this unprecedented effort. The best way to show our appreciation for their service is by getting vaccinated and by continuing to exercise the safety measures that help prevent new infections. We have come a long way, but the virus is still with us and we need to stay strong, united, and New York Tough in order to defeat it.

We know the vaccine works, but only if we all take it. Getting vaccinated isn't only about you. You are a member of a community and you can make somebody else sick if you opt not to be vaccinated, so Governor Cuomo urges everyone who has not yet done so to make an appointment. And to make it even easier, starting this Friday, walk-in appointments will become available to New Yorkers age 60 and older at 16 mass vaccination sites. The only way to defeat COVID is to get the vaccine. It is safe—over 13 million doses have already been administered in the State of New York. And every New Yorker age 16 and up is eligible so roll up your sleeves New York, and let's get vaccinated.

As of 11am Thursday morning, 42.6 percent of New Yorkers have completed at least one vaccine dose. Over the past 24 hours, 169,746 total doses have been administered. To date, New York has administered 13,852,715 total doses with 29.2 percent of New Yorkers completing their vaccine series. See data by region and county on the State's Vaccine Tracker: ny.gov/vaccinetracker.

"To-go" alcoholic beverages have been extended through May 6. Throughout the pandemic the State has permitted to-go alcoholic beverages with the purchase of food to help support bars and restaurants. Remember to drink responsibly.

Become a New York State Citizen Public Health Leader. To continue the fight against COVID and prepare for the next public health emergency, the State launched the free, online Citizen Public Health Training course for New Yorkers, in partnership with Cornell University and supported by the State University of New York. This program will prepare and equip New Yorkers to become Citizen Public Health Leaders and build an informed network across the state. Enroll for free today.

On Friday, Governor Cuomo signed legislation that will ensure low-income families have access to high-speed internet. The legislation requires that internet service providers offer high-speed internet plans to low-income customers for $15 per month. The pandemic reshaped many norms with remote learning, remote working and telemedicine and we must shape New York to adapt to these new conditions and ensure high-speed internet is available and affordable to every New Yorker.

Tickets for the 2021 Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach went on sale Monday, April 19 at 9am. Event Parking Passes will be required for all three shows beginning with Friday's practice show on May 28 and culminating with the final show on Sunday, May 30. The $10 per vehicle Event Parking Passes can be obtained from the State Parks' website. Additionally, 1,800 passes will be distributed to Long Island's three health care networks to be provided to their frontline health care workers involved in the pandemic response.

Capacity at arenas and large events will increase on May 19. Spectator capacity will increase to 25 percent at large-scale arenas and event venues, including professional and collegiate sports, and major performances. Social distancing, masks, health screenings and all other health and safety protocols remain in effect.

An additional $50 million in funding will go to Nourish NY through the FY 2022 Enacted Budget. Since last year, the Nourish NY initiative has purchased 21 million pounds of surplus agricultural products from New York farmers and delivered to more than 1.3 million households in need across New York State.

See how Excelsior Pass can help you be a part of NY's safe reopening. To help revitalize New York's economy safely, the State launched Excelsior Pass—a free and voluntary platform for businesses & individuals that can be used to easily access secure proof of a recent negative COVID test or vaccination. Learn more.

Remember, mental health resources are available for New Yorkers who need them. The weather is warming up and New York is gradually reopening but we can't underestimate the mental and emotional strain of the pandemic. New Yorkers can visit https://headspace.com/ny for free mindfulness resources or call our support hotline at 1-844-863-9314.

Starting Friday, April 23, walk-in appointments will be available at 16 mass vaccination sites. Walk-in appointments will only be available to New Yorkers age 60 and up. There may be a wait for those opting to walk-in at some sites depending on demand. All proof of identity and insurance information, if applicable, will be needed.
The South Beach Psychiatric Center on Staten Island discharged their final COVID-19 patient today. The new but unopened Office of Mental Health facility has served as an emergency hospital since last April, providing care for over 1,000 patients. The Center has closed its overflow center following the decline in COVID hospitalizations. Governor Cuomo thanks the doctors, nurses and facility staff who were on the front lines, putting themselves at risk, to care for their neighbors and community.
**If you are making an online Tax/Water payment, please make sure you are using the following URL: https://pay.xpress-pay.com/org/08B0D0333C984F0 and the page has the above image. This will ensure you're using the Village of Ossining's approved payment vendor**
Please fill out the information on our online form. We will be in touch via email when your request can be filled. Please remember when you receive the notice:
  1. All applications are made online with registrations uploaded via the software.
  2. Each application can have up to three (3) car registrations on it, but only one car can be parked at the Train Station at a time.
  3. Payment must be made online. Please note there are different prices for Village residents, Town residents (Unincorporated Area and Village of Briarcliff who reside inside the Town), and those outside the Town of Ossining. There is a 3% service fee for the debit/credit card used. This is the credit card fees that cannot be paid for by the municipality by law.
  4. There are no physical tags. Our new system, which is used by the Parking Enforcement and/or Ossining Police Department, uses license plate scanners.
  5. Any application takes at least 24 hours (weekdays only) to process.
  6. Click here to be placed on the wait list.
PUBLIC NOTICE
TO RESOLVE TRAFFIC & PARKING SUMMONSES
ISSUED IN THE
TOWN OR VILLAGE OF OSSINING
So that we can reduce persons having to appear in Court on traffic or parking matters, and to expedite resolutions in resolving traffic or parking infraction matters, pleased be advised that you have the ability to plea your traffic or parking matter by email/mail.

If you received a traffic infraction before the Justice Court of the Town of Ossining, involving a violation of the Vehicle and Traffic law, the person handling your ticket is the Town Prosecutor. The Town Prosecutor can be reached at vtlviolations@townofossining.com.

If you received a parking infraction before the Justice Court of the Town of of Ossining, (which handles ALL Village Parking matters), the person handling your ticket is the Deputy Corporation Counsel. The Deputy Corporation Counsel can be reached at parkingviolations@villageofossining.org.

**NEW COMMUNITY CENTER WIFI** 
Password for all WIFI Networks: 
95Broadway
THE OSSINING AND BRIARCLIFF MANOR PUBLIC LIBRARIES
Upcoming Programs in the Village and Town of Ossining
Ossining’s Down to Earth Farmers Market will be open regular hours this Saturday
What: See the full vendor schedule at downtoearthmarkets.com
When: Saturdays from 9AM-1PM
Where: Near Market Square at the corner of Spring & Main Streets, Ossining, NY
Trauma Conscious Yoga Classes
What: Practicing trauma-conscious yoga can increase connection with the breath, enabling the brain to become less aroused, and allow relaxation to begin.Join Elisha to explore a sense of control over your body and mind, reduce stress and get a great night's sleep! 
When: Begins Thursday, Feb 25 at 7pm
Where: on Zoom! sign up at crossoveryogaproject.org
Info: $15 per class. Venmo @CYPEmpowersme
Don't miss Ossining Village Trustee Omar Lopez's podcast - "Omar Lopez Talks to the People"
What: Every Sunday, Ossining Village Trustee Omar Lopez releases a new podcast covering local issues and interviewing officials and community members. From improving parking to legalizing backyard chickens, no issue is to too large or small.
When: New episodes available every Sunday
Information
Ossining’s Museum in the Streets (MITS)
What: MITS is a free, self-guided walking tour and consists of 25 numbered panels with images and explanatory text about the architecturally and historically significant buildings within the Downtown Ossining Historic District.
When: On a 24/7 basis
Where: The tour starting point is located on the north side of the Ossining Open Door Medical Center at 247 Main St. in Downtown Ossining. However visitors one can also begin at any of the numbered panels and take as few or as many panels as desired.
Contact: miguel.hdz@verizon.net for further information
The Westchester-Fairfield Joint Electrical Apprenticeship Training Committee (WFJEATC), Local Union #3 IBEW, will conduct a recruitment from September 15, 2020 through September 14, 2021 for 15 Electrician apprentices. To request an application, email wfjeatc@jibei.com. For more information on this program, click here. For more information on NYEAC, click here.
St. Matthews Headstart Daycare Early Headstart & Headstart Program
What: High quality research based curriculum, screenings and services to support healthy development and promote school readiness; family support, nutrition, guidance and access to community resources.
Hours: Head Start Hours 9:00 – 3:00pm/Daycare Hours 7:00-9:00am & 3:00-6:00pm
Info: Income Eligible Click here for flyer
Contact: For more information contact St. Matthew’s at 914-941-1715
Green Ossining Launches ‘Green Ossining Sustainability Partnership
As part of our ongoing commitment to community health education, we are partnering with local organizations to provide virtual opportunities to learn from and engage with our clinicians.
Theater O Classes!
What: Theater O offers classes in all things theater for children ages 3+:  From Acting to directing, play writing to design, Improv! to Musical Theater and more. Our faculty is comprised of seasoned professionals who excel in their craft. Listen, Learn, Imagine, Perform & Join the Play. visit www.theatero.org.
Where: Theater O @ 25 State St, Ossining, NY 10562
Contact: (914) 487-4322
REGISTRATION FOR CLASSES at LOGREA now open online
What: Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Theatre Dance and Mommy and Me
Where: Logrea Dance Academy, 2 Dale Ave, Ossining NY 10562
Info: Beginner to Advanced training. Discounts available.
Contact:  For more information or to REGISTER, please visit our website:  http://newsite.logreainfo.com or call us at 914-941-2939
Ossining Athletic Booster Club
What: The Ossining Athletic Booster Club is a not-for-profit volunteer organization established in 2001 to promote the athletic programs of the Ossining School District, recognize their achievements, and support Ossining's student-athletes and coaches by funding items not in the school budget and awarding scholarships to worthy graduating seniors of Ossining Athletic Booster Club members and donors.
CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL Admissions Test -TACHS PREP CLASSES & BOOT CAMPS
What: Prepare with us for the TACHS – Test for Admissions to Catholic High Schools. This course will heavily concentrate on the Reading, Language, Mathematics and Reasoning skills covered on the TACHS Examination. During class, students will practice timing, test taking strategies and extensive drill and review of all TACHS Exam topics. Register online at https://www.eduscapeassociates.com/tachs-exam-prep-classes/
When: Fall 2020-Check website for schedule of Classes/Boot Camps
Contact: Eduscape College & Test Prep Dr. Gayle Marchica, Principal Mobile/Text 914.886.5043 Office 914.941.4148 info@EduscapeAssociates.com
Therapeutic Foster Parents NEEDED
What: Family Services of Westchester is looking for individuals who are interested in learning about becoming a Therapeutic Foster Care Parent! We are looking for loving people willing to open their homes and hearts to a child in need of a stable, safe home environment.
Contact: Please contact Melissa Aversa, Home-finder & Recruitment Specialist at (914) 358-5828
Volunteers Needed - English-Spanish Translators  
What: The Ossining School District needs volunteers! Volunteering offers an opportunity to serve the community and can be a rich, rewarding experience. The district is seeking bilingual English-Spanish volunteers to serve as translators at district and school events. These events include but are not limited to, parent-teacher conferences, parent engagement nights and college fairs. We are dedicated to ensuring all members of our diverse community have equal access to Info and can fully participate in the educational life of their children. An Infoal flier is attached. Please kindly share this Info with members of your agency and/or community. Individuals with some time to serve as a translator and who are interested in making a difference may fill out an online form to be added to the district’s translator database. We welcome and greatly appreciate your help!
When: Ongoing
Where: Ossining Union Free School District
Contact: Ms. Ferzeen Shamsi at (914) 762-5830, ext. 4309
Mike Risko Music now accepting registrations
What: Mike Risko Music, just named a Top 100 Music School/Store in the world by NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) is now accepting registration for Fall session music lessons.
When: Call or email today to schedule a free trial and/or find out about our programs
Where: All programs are offered at Mike Risko Music right here in Ossining.
Info: Design your own schedule and take music lessons on any instrument or voice in our state of the art studios. All ages, levels and instruments are welcome! We even have programs for adults.
Contact: Mike Risko Music Mail@riskomusic.com www.mikeriskomusicschool.com 144 Croton Avenue Ossining NY 10562 914-762-8757
Safety Tips from the Ossining Fire Department
Sign Up for NIXLE Alerts: The Village of Ossining has launched a program to help notify the public of emergencies, road closures, hazardous conditions, and other incidents concerning the public within the Village of Ossining. This program, called Nixle, is a free program and allows members of the public to receive these messages in email, text message, and on an internet web site. Village of Ossining residents are urged to subscribe to receive emergency messages only by texting 10562 to 888777 on their cell phone, or to receive a full complement of messages, including community updates residents can visit www.Nixle.com and click the sign up now! button.
Sign up for ConEdison Customer Alerts via Text: Use your cell phone to text REG to OUTAGE (688243) and follow the prompts. You will need your account number and zip code. To retrieve your account number, log in to My Account or check your next bill. This information is also located on the ConEdison website at coned.com/text.
Tri-State Mask Makers are creating masks for those in need - healthcare workers to neighbors in nursing home.

Your donation will allow many sewists to continue with their work of love.
The Ossining Micro Fund is a non-profit organization offering interest-free loans to individuals and families who encounter unexpected financial obstacles. Our philosophy is to “pay it forward” – when a loan recipient repays a loan, the money becomes available to help another person in need. Click here for information .
*The Village makes no representation that donations are tax deductible. You should always check with your tax professional
What can you do?
As many of you know, our local food pantries and non-profits have been coming together to ensure our community does not go hungry. We can’t thank these organizations enough for all their help. Below you will find links to our local non-profits that have been working in partnership with the Village of Ossining to distribute food to people who need it. If you would like to provide donations or volunteer support we encourage you to do so*.

These efforts will continue through this COVID-19 pandemic and thereafter. We are proud to say that many of our local restaurants are also taking donations toward providing meals to those in the community that cannot leave their homes. We will be including this information in a section of our Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) web page.

Please send emails to webblast@villageofossining.org if you know of any other Ossining based agencies that are providing food during this time so that we can add them to this list.

We appreciate your commitment to our community.
Any New Yorker who sees excessively priced consumer goods and services that are used primarily for personal, family or household purposes to prevent or respond to the Covid-19 virus should file a complaint with the New York State Division of Consumer Protection.

or
Consumer hotline +1 800-697-1220
Volunteer New York’s program to connect small business owners to trained volunteer professionals who can provide PPP help is now back online. Unlike other opportunities on their website, this one is specifically for small business owners who want to receive consultations.
 
Following are links for both English- and Spanish-speaking business owners:
  1. Link to opportunity for English-speaking business owners
  2. Link to opportunity for Spanish-speaking business owners
  3. Link to main page showing both opportunities
WEB BLAST FORMAT 
Do you have an event, Info or picture of the Village of Ossining that you would like included in this web blast? If so please submit to webblast@villageofossining.org. All Info must be submitted by noon on the Wednesday prior to the distributed web blast. Submissions included in this listing are intended solely to inform of events and Info of general interest to subscribers. The Village of Ossining does not necessarily endorse or support organizations or entities whose events and / or activities are listed above. The Village makes no representation as to the accuracy thereof, nor does it assume any liability in connection with same. Please don't print this e-mail unless necessary.
All submissions must follow the format listed below:
Title:
What: [Limit description to 100 words or less]
When:
Where:
Info: [May include a single flyer]
Contact: [Name of organization/ individual, phone, email]
Religious Organizations
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED for Ossining Prison Ministry, Inc.
What: Volunteers for a hospitality program at the Sing Sing Correctional facility that is held
When: Saturdays, Sundays, and most major holidays; from 8am to 11 am or 12pm to 2:30pm.
Where: Sing Sing Correctional Facility 354 Hunter Street, Ossining NY 10562
Info: Our organization provides hospitality to the visitors who come to visit their loved ones. We also provide toys, puzzles, and games to the people in the facility to help normalize the visiting time.
Contact: Dorothée Caulfield, Director, Ossining Prison Ministry, Inc. deaconfee@gmail.com
Check out www.hud.gov/findshelter, a new online tool to help individuals and families find shelter, clothing, health clinics, and food pantries. Learn more: http://ow.ly/FHk150D9Xy3