Initiative Will Help Meet PlaNYC Goal to Divert 75 Percent of Solid Waste from Landfills by 2030
City Also Launches Gardens for Healthy Communities Making Nine Acres of Outdoor Space Open for Community Gardens
Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced that more than 100 restaurants will participate in the first-ever Food Waste Challenge, a new City program to reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills and the greenhouse gases that waste produces. The program will help meet the City’s PlaNYC goals to divert 75 percent of all solid waste from landfills by 2030 and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Food waste comprises one-third of the city’s more than 20,000 tons of daily refuse and restaurants account for 70 percent of commercial food waste. Participating restaurants have pledged to reduce 50 percent of the food waste they send to landfills through compositing and other waste prevention strategies. The restaurants and restaurant groups include: Batali and Bastianich Hospitality Group, Blue Hill, Chipotle, Cleaver Co., Juice Generation, Le Bernardin, Momofuku, Pret-a-Manger, Union Square Hospitality Group and ‘WichCraft. The initiative builds on the organic waste programs that the City has developed, including a pilot in some Brooklyn and Manhattan public schools that has cut the amount of garbage participating schools send to landfills by 38 percent, and a residential organics recycling program that will begin in Staten Island next month. The Mayor also announced the launch of Gardens for Healthy Communities, which will open nine acres of under-utilized City-owned outdoor space for 20 local gardening projects. The Mayor made the announcements at the New York Times “Building Sustainable Cities” Conference at the Times Center in Manhattan.
“From franchises to farm-to-table restaurants, New York’s food industry is joining our efforts to cut waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions to build a greener, greater New York,” said Mayor Bloomberg. “Restaurants are a vital part of our economy and culture, and their participation in the Food Waste Challenge will help inform New Yorkers about sustainable practices and encourage their adoption.”
“Yesterday we launched the largest expansion of the City’s household recycling program in decades and today we're working with the restaurant industry to tackle food waste – most of which is still going to landfills today,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Cas Holloway. “Restaurants are an engine of the City’s economy and by accepting the Food Waste challenge, these business owners will make that engine run much cleaner – which is great for New Yorkers and the environment.”
“As part of the obesity task force, New York City is working to ensure that more New Yorkers have access to healthy fruits and vegetables and community gardens are a critical component to meeting that commitment,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Linda I. Gibbs. “The additional acres will promote urban agriculture and help transform our communities by re-allocating underutilized land.”
“By diverting our food waste from landfills, New York City is taking an important step towards a reducing harmful greenhouse gases and helping achieve the city’s PlaNYC goals,” said City Council Speaker Christine C. Quinn. “The additional 20 community garden sites, on the other hand, will give New Yorkers the opportunity to enjoy increased access to open, green space, environmental learning opportunities and healthy, fresh food.”
“Community gardens create places to gather and foster awareness of healthy food options and benefits of fresh foods” said Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Veronica M. White. “We are proud of the fact that these sites will be managed by our GreenThumb program, the oldest and largest community garden program in the nation.”
“We know community gardens are often hubs for healthy activity –hosting weekly farmers markets, working with school groups, or donating produce to pantries,” said City Food Policy Coordinator Kim Kessler. “Many also compost – making their contribution to reducing food waste. I’m thrilled that today’s announcements advance both sustainability and health goals by addressing both the production and disposal stages of the food cycle.”
“This initiative builds upon the strong tradition of community gardening in New York City, and by identifying 20 new available sites we will enable many more New Yorkers to be a part of creating sustainable community managed spaces,” saidExecutive Director of the GreenThumb Program Edie Stone.
“Recovering the value of food waste is a goal that all New Yorkers can get behind,” said Judith Enck, Regional Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency. “There are enormous environmental and community benefits associated with diverting food waste from landfill and restaurants can help lead the way. I applaud Mayor Bloomberg for this visionary and enterprising initiative.”
“The Mayor’s Food Waste Challenge offers restaurants the opportunity to voluntarily implement positive changes that will benefit the community, the environment and the bottom line,” said Rick Sampson, New York State Restaurant Association President and CEO. “NYSRA is pleased to support the mayor on this initiative, and its recognition of the valuable contributions to sustainability that NYC restaurants are making.”
“Restaurants can play a crucial role in helping to reduce our city’s food waste,” said Danny Meyer, CEO and Founder of Union Square Hospitality Group. “We eagerly accept the Mayor’s challenge and our restaurants are excited to help the city reach its goal of diverting 50 percent of food waste, thereby helping to clean up the atmosphere.”
“Diverting food waste from landfill is a critical step towards achieving more efficient and sustainable food systems,” said Peter Lehner, Executive Director of the Natural Resources Defense Council. “With 40 percent of food in the U.S. going uneaten, it’s also important to start reducing the waste in the first place, which the measurement part of the Challenge helps restaurants to achieve. We congratulate the Mayor and the participating restaurants for taking the initiative in reducing and recycling food waste in NYC.”
"We are committed to supporting Food Waste Challenge participants in their efforts to divert organic waste from landfills,” said Ron Bergamini, CEO of Action Environmental Group, parent company of New York City’s largest recycler of commercial waste. “Providing transparent and high quality waste collection solutions will make New York City a sustainable waste champion and a model for the country.”
“We applaud the Mayor’s office for launching the Food Waste Challenge,” said Lily Kelly, Interim Director of Global Green USA’s Coalition for Resource Recovery. “When more businesses recover their food waste it benefits all New Yorkers by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions and encouraging investment in local processing infrastructure. We are delighted to be working with the Mayor's office to support this program.”
“The City’s initiative to increase composting in the restaurants and cafeterias is an extremely important component of increasing recycling rates in New York City,” said Helena Durst of The Durst Organization. “We have been composting our organic matter in nine of our commercial buildings and increased our landfill diversion rate to over 80 percent of the waste we produce. Introducing a composting stream to our restaurant tenants and the corporate cafeterias in our portfolio has been instrumental in our high landfill diversion rate.”
Participants in the Food Waste Challenge will conduct a waste audit to determine how much waste they generate. The restaurants will use this baseline to track their progress in diverting 50 percent of food waste from landfill. The City will work with participants to share best practices and develop a toolkit of resources to help all participating restaurants meet their targets efficiently. The toolkit will address topics including staff training, how to measure waste, and composting. Food Waste Challenge participants will also have access to local experts and organizations that will provide assistance in meeting the diversion targets.
The Food Waste Challenge builds on other public-private partnerships the City has launched to generate sustainable practices and help meet the PlaNYC goals to decrease waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. Last week, Mayor Bloomberg announced that 10 global corporations had joined the Carbon Challenge, pledging to reduce up to 40 percent of their greenhouse gas emissions in the next 10 years. City colleges, universities and hospitals have also pledged to participate in the Carbon Challenge. According the Carbon Challenge Progress Report, universities have measured an overall reduction of nearly 13 percent, and the hospitals have measured an average reduction of 6 percent of emissions in the last three years. Since the launch of PlaNYC in 2007, citywide emissions have fallen by 17 percent – more than halfway to reduction target of 30 percent by 2017.
he mayor also announced the Gardens for Healthy Communities initiative, which will convert 9 acres of vacant City land into up to 20 new community garden sites across the five boroughs. The initiative is a part of the Mayor’s Obesity Task Force Plan and is an expansion of the Parks Department’s GreenThumb program. Non-profit and community groups will be encouraged to apply, and projects will be evaluated for their ability to promote fresh food access and awareness as well as sustainability initiatives such as rainwater harvesting and neighborhood composting activities. The initiative advances PlaNYC goals to promote urban agriculture and create new opportunities to transform underutilized land, including by identifying vacant city-owned sites suitable for urban agriculture and increasing the number of community garden volunteers.
Welcome to the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce Manhattan Chamber of Commerce (MCC) is a vibrant business membership organization comprised of a cross section of 10,000 business members and subscribers ranging from sole proprietors to large corporations and multi-national firms. Connect with entrepreneurs, leaders and executives by becoming an MCC member today and help your business grow. Our mission is to advocate for, connect and educate the business community in Manhattan.
Friday, April 26, 2013
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
$19 Million in Grants to be Made to SBA Resource Partners To Support Hurricane Sandy Small Business Recovery
WASHINGTON— Small businesses rebuilding in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy will get both immediate and long-term help laying a foundation for economic recovery and resiliency thanks to expanded services funded by a $19 million emergency appropriation.
Small businesses can take advantage of free expanded counseling, training and technical assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s resource partners—the Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), SCORE, and Women’s Business Centers (WBCs).
“This is yet another example of placing proven, effective tools in the hands of America’s small business owners who are recovering from Hurricane Sandy,” said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. “SBA’s extensive resource partner network continues to play a critical role in fostering economic development in those hard-hit areas, and I’m pleased those resources will be made accessible on a broader scale to help those who need it most.”
Funding was made available as part of a package approved by Congress in January to meet the demand for SBA assistance. Through these funds, SCORE, SBDCs and WBCs can help provide long-term small business rebuilding strategies, as well as help small businesses through the SBA lending process.
In the first phase of counseling and technical assistance funding, $5.8 million is being distributed to SBA resource partners in 11 states--Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, West Virginia--and Puerto Rico.
The SBDC and WBC funding awards are as follows:
Connecticut $527,000 Delaware $118,000
Massachusetts $76,000 Maryland $36,000
North Carolina $18,000 New Jersey $1,385,000
New York $2,394,000 Pennsylvania $410,000
Rhode Island $71,000 Virginia $7,000
West Virginia $46,000 Puerto Rico $19,000
SCORE will receive $704,000 to fund its chapters in the affected areas. During the second phase of funding, $13.1 million will be issued through these resource partners to provide long-term small business recovery and expansion, with a focus on building creative community-based partnerships.
SBA makes low-interest, taxpayer-backed disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses and non-profit organizations of all sizes. More information about the disaster assistance program is available at www.sba.gov/disaster.
As of April 11, the SBA has approved disaster loans totaling $1.8 billion to individuals, and $279 million to businesses and non-profit organizations recovering from Hurricane Sandy.
SBA’s resource partners provide counseling assistance to disaster survivors, including business advice for affected businesses and assistance in applying for an SBA disaster loan. In addition, they staff recovery centers and provide guidance to help with businesses recovery and disaster preparedness.
Small businesses can take advantage of free expanded counseling, training and technical assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s resource partners—the Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), SCORE, and Women’s Business Centers (WBCs).
“This is yet another example of placing proven, effective tools in the hands of America’s small business owners who are recovering from Hurricane Sandy,” said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. “SBA’s extensive resource partner network continues to play a critical role in fostering economic development in those hard-hit areas, and I’m pleased those resources will be made accessible on a broader scale to help those who need it most.”
Funding was made available as part of a package approved by Congress in January to meet the demand for SBA assistance. Through these funds, SCORE, SBDCs and WBCs can help provide long-term small business rebuilding strategies, as well as help small businesses through the SBA lending process.
In the first phase of counseling and technical assistance funding, $5.8 million is being distributed to SBA resource partners in 11 states--Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, West Virginia--and Puerto Rico.
The SBDC and WBC funding awards are as follows:
Connecticut $527,000 Delaware $118,000
Massachusetts $76,000 Maryland $36,000
North Carolina $18,000 New Jersey $1,385,000
New York $2,394,000 Pennsylvania $410,000
Rhode Island $71,000 Virginia $7,000
West Virginia $46,000 Puerto Rico $19,000
SCORE will receive $704,000 to fund its chapters in the affected areas. During the second phase of funding, $13.1 million will be issued through these resource partners to provide long-term small business recovery and expansion, with a focus on building creative community-based partnerships.
SBA makes low-interest, taxpayer-backed disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses and non-profit organizations of all sizes. More information about the disaster assistance program is available at www.sba.gov/disaster.
As of April 11, the SBA has approved disaster loans totaling $1.8 billion to individuals, and $279 million to businesses and non-profit organizations recovering from Hurricane Sandy.
SBA’s resource partners provide counseling assistance to disaster survivors, including business advice for affected businesses and assistance in applying for an SBA disaster loan. In addition, they staff recovery centers and provide guidance to help with businesses recovery and disaster preparedness.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
The Green Building Center opens in New York City
Just in time for Earth Day read about MCC member Robert Politzer and the opening of his new Green Building Center:
The Center is a one-stop source for both products and services for clients seeking to renovate, build or maintain a sustainable, high-performance facility.
The Green Building Center, LLC (GBC) announces the opening of their New York center in the penthouse of 36 West 37th Street in Manhattan. This will be the GBC’s second location, having previously opened a center in Lambertville, New Jersey.
The Green Building Center is structured as a one-stop resource for all those looking to create and maintain high-performance facilities. The center includes architects, engineers, builders, finance groups, accountants and product vendors under one umbrella. It will allow architects, developers and property owners to consult with experts in various areas of the building industry from the time they envision their project through to the opening of their new or renovated buildings.
“We see the GBC as the embodiment of a new way of creating sustainable environments.” according the GBC CEO Jason Kliwinski, AIA, LEED AP BD+C. “… Our holistic approach will allow our clients to develop green and energy efficient buildings right from the initial concept with the design, construction and material suppliers working in a collaborative effort. It will allow us to make decisions that work in all of a project’s spheres - aesthetic, financial, environmental and constructible.”
The current Members of the Green Building Center are: architects Design for Life, Inc.; and DF Gibson Architects; engineers Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.; M&E Engineers, Inc.; construction manager Greenstreet Inc.; Commercial Furniture Interiors; and product vendors Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.; Enerlogic – a product of CPFilms Inc., Mythic Paint – a product of Southern Diversified Products, LLC; and Icestone, LLC. Each firm was carefully vetted for their track record of accomplishment and for their commitment to the ideals of the Center. Future members will be added to provide more resources to the building and development community. http://greenbuildingcenter.com/?page_id=44
For Further Information Contact:
Colin Murray
Director of Business Development
GreenStreet, Inc.
36 West 37th Street, Penthouse
New York, NY 10018
212.234.1027 ext. 4
colin@greenstreetinc.com
The Center is a one-stop source for both products and services for clients seeking to renovate, build or maintain a sustainable, high-performance facility.
The Green Building Center, LLC (GBC) announces the opening of their New York center in the penthouse of 36 West 37th Street in Manhattan. This will be the GBC’s second location, having previously opened a center in Lambertville, New Jersey.
The Green Building Center is structured as a one-stop resource for all those looking to create and maintain high-performance facilities. The center includes architects, engineers, builders, finance groups, accountants and product vendors under one umbrella. It will allow architects, developers and property owners to consult with experts in various areas of the building industry from the time they envision their project through to the opening of their new or renovated buildings.
“We see the GBC as the embodiment of a new way of creating sustainable environments.” according the GBC CEO Jason Kliwinski, AIA, LEED AP BD+C. “… Our holistic approach will allow our clients to develop green and energy efficient buildings right from the initial concept with the design, construction and material suppliers working in a collaborative effort. It will allow us to make decisions that work in all of a project’s spheres - aesthetic, financial, environmental and constructible.”
The current Members of the Green Building Center are: architects Design for Life, Inc.; and DF Gibson Architects; engineers Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc.; M&E Engineers, Inc.; construction manager Greenstreet Inc.; Commercial Furniture Interiors; and product vendors Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.; Enerlogic – a product of CPFilms Inc., Mythic Paint – a product of Southern Diversified Products, LLC; and Icestone, LLC. Each firm was carefully vetted for their track record of accomplishment and for their commitment to the ideals of the Center. Future members will be added to provide more resources to the building and development community. http://greenbuildingcenter.com/?page_id=44
For Further Information Contact:
Colin Murray
Director of Business Development
GreenStreet, Inc.
36 West 37th Street, Penthouse
New York, NY 10018
212.234.1027 ext. 4
colin@greenstreetinc.com
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
MCC Tech and Marketing events, April and May, 2013
MCC knows that all businesses depend on the use of technology and a defined marketing strategy to be successful. Please join us for these events in order to learn more, network with MCC members and find leads to grow your business!
April 17th: Wine and cheese Networking: Get ready for the cloud with the new Office! (with MCC’s Melanie Gass of Centerpoint Soultion!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=265
April 24th: Think Like a CEO - Three Secrets to Faster & Smarter Growth (with new MCC ambassador Evan Horowitz!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=239
April 30th: Grow Your Business with Content Marketing and Social Media (with MCC’s Ramon Ray of Infusionsoft and smallbiztechnology.com!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=249
May 22nd: MCC Quarterly Tech and Social Media Networking Event (see 5 MCC members present their businesses!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=183
Please feel free to re-post on your networks!
April 17th: Wine and cheese Networking: Get ready for the cloud with the new Office! (with MCC’s Melanie Gass of Centerpoint Soultion!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=265
April 24th: Think Like a CEO - Three Secrets to Faster & Smarter Growth (with new MCC ambassador Evan Horowitz!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=239
April 30th: Grow Your Business with Content Marketing and Social Media (with MCC’s Ramon Ray of Infusionsoft and smallbiztechnology.com!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=249
May 22nd: MCC Quarterly Tech and Social Media Networking Event (see 5 MCC members present their businesses!)
http://www.manhattancc.org/events/eventdetail.aspx?EventID=183
Please feel free to re-post on your networks!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
MCC Small Business Recovery Fund Grant to Jean Doumbe, My Nutri Fitness
Jean Doumbe, Manager, My Nutri Fitness, poses with MCC President Ploeger as he accepts the Recovery Fund Grant. Jean's business was closed for 19 days and now he and his colleagues are trying to find new locations for their business.
Progressive Computing Celebrates Ribbon Cutting
Here is news from MCC Silver Partner Progressive Computing. We are glad to see our friends at the Business Council in Westchester involved in this event!
Elected officials, community leaders, clients, vendors in attendance
New York NY (April 8, 2013)
The managing partners of Progressive Computing, Inc., (PCI) a computer consulting and network installation, design and maintenance firm, were recently joined by elected officials and community leaders for a ribbon cutting at its new 1,800 sq. ft. office space at 35 East Grassy Sprain Road in Yonkers. The move to larger space followed PCI’s purchase of a competitor in 2012 and the addition of several new employees. The company celebrates 20 years in business in 2013.
At the event, PCI Managing Partners Robert Cioffi and Ugo Chiulli recognized and thanked their employees, clients, vendors and all of the community leaders in attendance for their support. "We plan to continue our expansion to meet the growing demands of our clients in an ever-changing technology landscape," said Cioffi. The partners said they decided to stay in Westchester, and Yonkers in particular, because of the opportunities present within its vibrant business community, availability of a diverse and talented workforce, and the convenience of Yonkers’ proximity to New York City.
Cioffi introduced Jeffery Zink, Vice President of Sales & Business Development at 4th Bin, a company that offers solutions for electronic and computer recycling. PCI is partnering with 4th Bin to help organizations reduce e-waste and cut costs.
On behalf of New York State Senator George Latimer, Andrew Ferris presented a Certificate of Merit; on behalf of New York State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Symra Brandon presented a Certificate of Appreciation; on behalf of Assembly Member Shelly Mayer, Rachel Estroff presented a Certificate of Merit.
On behalf of Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino, Director Office of Economic Development Eileen Mildenberger, Esq. presented a Proclamation of Merit. Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Kenneth W. Jenkins also attended.
Representing the City of Yonkers, Mayor Mike Spano addressed attendees and presented a proclamation, and Yonkers City Council President Chuck Lesnick presented a Certificate of Congratulations. Majority Leader Wilson Terrero and Councilman Michael Sabatino also attended.
Representing The Business Council of Westchester were President/CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon and Executive Vice President John Ravitz.
New York City Office Progressive Computing, Inc.
60 East 42nd Street Suite 1161 New York, NY 10165 Tel: 212.681.1212 Fax: 212.972.4182
About Progressive Computing, Inc.
With offices in Westchester County, NY and Manhattan, Progressive Computing, Inc. is a leader in computer network installation, design and maintenance, offering professional, cost-effective IT services, computer consulting, technical support and computer repair to organizations since 1993. They are focused on providing cost-effective, reliable and right-sized solutions. As a
Microsoft Small Business Specialist,, the PCI technicians and computer consultants are dedicated to delivering IT solutions that leverage a blend of both proven and cutting-edge technologies. Clients regard them as their "on-demand" information technology department, entrusting that their recommendations, services and products will help them save money, become more efficient, and grow their businesses. Progressive Computing can support any IT outsourcing needs in a variety of ways with services that can be tailored and combined with others to deliver a custom solution to meet clients’ exacting needs. These include:
ProManage: An all-inclusive fixed price contract to cover all technology needs. ProHosting: Enterprise-class datacenter services to the SMB for mission critical applications. ProAudit: Computer consulting services that scrutinize and appraise the strengths and weaknesses of existing computer networks and systems. ProBackup: Disaster Recovery service plan subscription that uses a combination of an onsite backup appliance and secure offsite data storage. General IT Services: Project or incident-based services with no contractual obligation.
Westchester County Office Progressive Computing
909 Midland Avenue Yonkers, New York 10704 Tel: 914.375.3009 Fax: 914.375.2550
http://www.progressivecomputing.com/
Elected officials, community leaders, clients, vendors in attendance
New York NY (April 8, 2013)
The managing partners of Progressive Computing, Inc., (PCI) a computer consulting and network installation, design and maintenance firm, were recently joined by elected officials and community leaders for a ribbon cutting at its new 1,800 sq. ft. office space at 35 East Grassy Sprain Road in Yonkers. The move to larger space followed PCI’s purchase of a competitor in 2012 and the addition of several new employees. The company celebrates 20 years in business in 2013.
At the event, PCI Managing Partners Robert Cioffi and Ugo Chiulli recognized and thanked their employees, clients, vendors and all of the community leaders in attendance for their support. "We plan to continue our expansion to meet the growing demands of our clients in an ever-changing technology landscape," said Cioffi. The partners said they decided to stay in Westchester, and Yonkers in particular, because of the opportunities present within its vibrant business community, availability of a diverse and talented workforce, and the convenience of Yonkers’ proximity to New York City.
Cioffi introduced Jeffery Zink, Vice President of Sales & Business Development at 4th Bin, a company that offers solutions for electronic and computer recycling. PCI is partnering with 4th Bin to help organizations reduce e-waste and cut costs.
On behalf of New York State Senator George Latimer, Andrew Ferris presented a Certificate of Merit; on behalf of New York State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Symra Brandon presented a Certificate of Appreciation; on behalf of Assembly Member Shelly Mayer, Rachel Estroff presented a Certificate of Merit.
On behalf of Westchester County Executive Robert Astorino, Director Office of Economic Development Eileen Mildenberger, Esq. presented a Proclamation of Merit. Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Kenneth W. Jenkins also attended.
Representing the City of Yonkers, Mayor Mike Spano addressed attendees and presented a proclamation, and Yonkers City Council President Chuck Lesnick presented a Certificate of Congratulations. Majority Leader Wilson Terrero and Councilman Michael Sabatino also attended.
Representing The Business Council of Westchester were President/CEO Dr. Marsha Gordon and Executive Vice President John Ravitz.
New York City Office Progressive Computing, Inc.
60 East 42nd Street Suite 1161 New York, NY 10165 Tel: 212.681.1212 Fax: 212.972.4182
About Progressive Computing, Inc.
With offices in Westchester County, NY and Manhattan, Progressive Computing, Inc. is a leader in computer network installation, design and maintenance, offering professional, cost-effective IT services, computer consulting, technical support and computer repair to organizations since 1993. They are focused on providing cost-effective, reliable and right-sized solutions. As a
Microsoft Small Business Specialist,, the PCI technicians and computer consultants are dedicated to delivering IT solutions that leverage a blend of both proven and cutting-edge technologies. Clients regard them as their "on-demand" information technology department, entrusting that their recommendations, services and products will help them save money, become more efficient, and grow their businesses. Progressive Computing can support any IT outsourcing needs in a variety of ways with services that can be tailored and combined with others to deliver a custom solution to meet clients’ exacting needs. These include:
ProManage: An all-inclusive fixed price contract to cover all technology needs. ProHosting: Enterprise-class datacenter services to the SMB for mission critical applications. ProAudit: Computer consulting services that scrutinize and appraise the strengths and weaknesses of existing computer networks and systems. ProBackup: Disaster Recovery service plan subscription that uses a combination of an onsite backup appliance and secure offsite data storage. General IT Services: Project or incident-based services with no contractual obligation.
Westchester County Office Progressive Computing
909 Midland Avenue Yonkers, New York 10704 Tel: 914.375.3009 Fax: 914.375.2550
http://www.progressivecomputing.com/
Monday, April 8, 2013
Superstorm Sandy Relief Summary re Federal Funding from HUD (US Housing and Urban Development Agency) As of April 5, 2013
(Information submitted by The New York Grant Company, www.nygrants.com, info@nygrants.com)
In March 2013, President Obama signed Congressional legislation entitled H.R. 152, the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013. The Act authorizes the federal government to appropriate approximately $50.7 billion in relief funding in the wake of Superstorm Sandy.
This $50 billion relief package will, in turn, allocate funds to various federal agencies for disbursement:
$2 billion for the Federal Highway Administration to repair roads and bridges
$5 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers for dredging, infrastructure, and other flood prevention and control efforts
$11 billion for the Federal Transit Administration to repair the region’s transportation systems, including MTA repairs
$11.5 billion for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund for both individual assistance and repair of damaged public property
$16 billion for HUD spending on expenses relating to recovery, restoration of infrastructure, housing, and economic revitalization.
The $16 billion in HUD funding is the largest allocation of federal funds, and the first tranche of $5.4 billion has been allocated as follows:
$1,772,820,000 to NYC
$1,713,960,000 to NYS
$1,829,520,000 to NJ
$ 71,820,000 to CT
$ 3,240,000 to RI
$ 8,640,000 to MD
TOTAL $5,400,000
Pursuant to HUD rules, the above jurisdictions have each presented Action Plans as to their proposed use of funds. The Action Plans are now subject to public comment, and after the public comment period (30 days) has ended, HUD will approve the Action Plans, subject to any modification, and proceed to authorize the release of funds to the jurisdictions.
It is anticipated that funding will start to roll out beginning in the summer of 2013. Jurisdictions have strict deadlines both internally and externally and must expend the HUD funds within 2 years. There are also very strict guidelines for compliance, including documentation, approvals, verifications, reporting and auditing. All funding is subject to strict and continuous auditing, with HUD reserving the right to recapture funds in appropriate cases.
Both the New York City and New York State Action Plans, now published and available online, provide details about the City’s and State’s intended uses for the HUD funds.
New York City has earmarked its initial $1.77 billion allocation as follows:
$720 million for housing
$325 million for business relief, including:
$80 million in grants and loans to small business
$100 million in “resiliency investments” (eg, to move building mechanical equipment above grade)
$100 million in a “neighborhood game changer investment competition”
$45 million in an “infrastructure and building resiliency technology competition”
$400 million in infrastructure repairs and improvements
$327 million in resiliency investments (TBD)
5% for administration
15% for planning.
New York State has earmarked its initial $1.72 billion allocation as follows:
$788 million for housing (including the voluntary home buy-out program)
$415 million in business relief, including funds for
Grants and loans
Consulting and mentoring
Coastal fishing grants
Tourism grants
Tourism marketing grants
$30 million in resiliency and retrofitting funds for energy-related projects (eg, emergency generators, energy back up systems)
$25 million in community planning and redevelopment funds.
Each of the City and State Action Plans spells out more specifics about the above proposed expenditures. However, precise program rules, eligibility criteria, application forms, documentation requirements and other guidelines are still under development. We can expect to see these over the course of the summer. Each of the above pools of funds will have their own specific program rules and application process.
To a large extent, the HUD funds for business and residential programs will be heavily “programmed” as-of-right, with entitlements based upon criteria and rules which the jurisdictions will develop in concert with HUD administrators. To a more limited extent, certain of the programs will be discretionary. For example, the City’s fund of $100 million for resiliency investments will be administered by EDC, which must pre-approve any plans by an applicant prior to funding. Such resiliency investments can be made for up to $2 million per project, with discretion to award higher amounts if EDC grants approval. Each project will be reviewed case-by-case.
Once the initial $5.4 billion in HUD funding has started to roll out, jurisdictions will then apply for further rounds of funding for the remaining pool of $11.6 billion in additional HUD funding authorized by Congress and the President.
We will continue to monitor these developments carefully. We are fully mobilized to pursue all applications once the programs are officially in place and once the funds are available to applicants. As in the past, we will focus our efforts on businesses which are eligible for relief.
The New York Grant Company team has 11 years of experience in processing HUD grants and HUD funding. This grows out of our deep experience in helping with the recovery and rebuilding of lower Manhattan businesses after 9/11. The primary source of relief at that time (and continuing even to today) is HUD grant funding authorized by Congress. Our team has processed literally hundreds of applications for HUD funding, and we are therefore ideally poised to assist with the rollout of Superstorm Sandy relief funds now.
In March 2013, President Obama signed Congressional legislation entitled H.R. 152, the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013. The Act authorizes the federal government to appropriate approximately $50.7 billion in relief funding in the wake of Superstorm Sandy.
This $50 billion relief package will, in turn, allocate funds to various federal agencies for disbursement:
$2 billion for the Federal Highway Administration to repair roads and bridges
$5 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers for dredging, infrastructure, and other flood prevention and control efforts
$11 billion for the Federal Transit Administration to repair the region’s transportation systems, including MTA repairs
$11.5 billion for FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund for both individual assistance and repair of damaged public property
$16 billion for HUD spending on expenses relating to recovery, restoration of infrastructure, housing, and economic revitalization.
The $16 billion in HUD funding is the largest allocation of federal funds, and the first tranche of $5.4 billion has been allocated as follows:
$1,772,820,000 to NYC
$1,713,960,000 to NYS
$1,829,520,000 to NJ
$ 71,820,000 to CT
$ 3,240,000 to RI
$ 8,640,000 to MD
TOTAL $5,400,000
Pursuant to HUD rules, the above jurisdictions have each presented Action Plans as to their proposed use of funds. The Action Plans are now subject to public comment, and after the public comment period (30 days) has ended, HUD will approve the Action Plans, subject to any modification, and proceed to authorize the release of funds to the jurisdictions.
It is anticipated that funding will start to roll out beginning in the summer of 2013. Jurisdictions have strict deadlines both internally and externally and must expend the HUD funds within 2 years. There are also very strict guidelines for compliance, including documentation, approvals, verifications, reporting and auditing. All funding is subject to strict and continuous auditing, with HUD reserving the right to recapture funds in appropriate cases.
Both the New York City and New York State Action Plans, now published and available online, provide details about the City’s and State’s intended uses for the HUD funds.
New York City has earmarked its initial $1.77 billion allocation as follows:
$720 million for housing
$325 million for business relief, including:
$80 million in grants and loans to small business
$100 million in “resiliency investments” (eg, to move building mechanical equipment above grade)
$100 million in a “neighborhood game changer investment competition”
$45 million in an “infrastructure and building resiliency technology competition”
$400 million in infrastructure repairs and improvements
$327 million in resiliency investments (TBD)
5% for administration
15% for planning.
New York State has earmarked its initial $1.72 billion allocation as follows:
$788 million for housing (including the voluntary home buy-out program)
$415 million in business relief, including funds for
Grants and loans
Consulting and mentoring
Coastal fishing grants
Tourism grants
Tourism marketing grants
$30 million in resiliency and retrofitting funds for energy-related projects (eg, emergency generators, energy back up systems)
$25 million in community planning and redevelopment funds.
Each of the City and State Action Plans spells out more specifics about the above proposed expenditures. However, precise program rules, eligibility criteria, application forms, documentation requirements and other guidelines are still under development. We can expect to see these over the course of the summer. Each of the above pools of funds will have their own specific program rules and application process.
To a large extent, the HUD funds for business and residential programs will be heavily “programmed” as-of-right, with entitlements based upon criteria and rules which the jurisdictions will develop in concert with HUD administrators. To a more limited extent, certain of the programs will be discretionary. For example, the City’s fund of $100 million for resiliency investments will be administered by EDC, which must pre-approve any plans by an applicant prior to funding. Such resiliency investments can be made for up to $2 million per project, with discretion to award higher amounts if EDC grants approval. Each project will be reviewed case-by-case.
Once the initial $5.4 billion in HUD funding has started to roll out, jurisdictions will then apply for further rounds of funding for the remaining pool of $11.6 billion in additional HUD funding authorized by Congress and the President.
We will continue to monitor these developments carefully. We are fully mobilized to pursue all applications once the programs are officially in place and once the funds are available to applicants. As in the past, we will focus our efforts on businesses which are eligible for relief.
The New York Grant Company team has 11 years of experience in processing HUD grants and HUD funding. This grows out of our deep experience in helping with the recovery and rebuilding of lower Manhattan businesses after 9/11. The primary source of relief at that time (and continuing even to today) is HUD grant funding authorized by Congress. Our team has processed literally hundreds of applications for HUD funding, and we are therefore ideally poised to assist with the rollout of Superstorm Sandy relief funds now.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
MCC Small Business Recovery Fund Grant to Toto's Restaurant
Staten Island Chamber President & CEO Linda Baran presents a $500.00 grant check to John Toto of Toto's Restaurant from the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce Small Business Recovery Fund for Sandy Relief. We wish him all the best as they continue to recover and rebuild.
MCC Small Business Recovery Fund Grant to Bedazzle Dance Studio Inc.
Staten Island Chamber President & CEO Linda Baran presents a $500.00 grant check to Christine Mignone of Bedazzle Dance Studio Inc. from the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce Small Business Recovery Fund for Sandy Relief. We wish them all the best as they continue to recover and rebuild.
Monday, April 1, 2013
SBA Extends Deadline to April 13 for Hurricane Sandy Survivors in New York
ATLANTA – The U. S. Small Business Administration has extended the deadline for Hurricane Sandy survivors in New York to return applications for physical damage to April 13, 2013.
Survivors are encouraged to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency at
800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY 800-462-7585 and return completed applications to the SBA before the deadline. Homeowners and renters unable to obtain an SBA low-interest disaster loan may be referred to FEMA for grant consideration.
SBA’s Customer Service Representatives are available at the recovery centers located throughout the area to provide one-on-one assistance to survivors in completing their applications.
Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
Additional details on the locations of Recovery Centers and the loan application process can be obtained by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is April 13, 2013. The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 31, 2013.
For more information about the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, visit our website at www.sba.gov.
Survivors are encouraged to register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency at
800-621-FEMA (3362), TTY 800-462-7585 and return completed applications to the SBA before the deadline. Homeowners and renters unable to obtain an SBA low-interest disaster loan may be referred to FEMA for grant consideration.
SBA’s Customer Service Representatives are available at the recovery centers located throughout the area to provide one-on-one assistance to survivors in completing their applications.
Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.
Additional details on the locations of Recovery Centers and the loan application process can be obtained by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for the deaf and hard-of-hearing) or by sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is April 13, 2013. The deadline to return economic injury applications is July 31, 2013.
For more information about the SBA’s Disaster Loan Program, visit our website at www.sba.gov.
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