New York City Council
Committee on Veterans
Dec 18, 2024
·
01:00 PM
2 hr 49 min
Summary
A hearing on connecting veterans with arts and culture opportunities, exploring the impact of creative programs on veterans' well-being, and considering 8 bills and 6 resolutions.
Discussions focused on:
- Expanding access to arts programs
- Supporting veteran street vendors
- Providing rental assistance to homeless veterans
- Giving veterans preference for public housing.
The hearing aimed to explore ways to expand arts and cultural opportunities for veterans while addressing broader issues facing the veteran community in NYC.
Features testimony from the Department of Veterans Services (DVS), various arts organizations supporting veterans, and the public.
Meeting chapters
Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.
Council Member Holden introduces the hearing on connecting veterans with arts and culture opportunities
Council Member Robert Holden, chair of the committee on veterans, opens the oversight hearing on connecting veterans with arts and culture opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of this often overlooked …
0:00:44
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38 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Resolution 18 regarding Veterans Day observance
Council Member Holden explains Resolution 18, sponsored by Councilmember Vicki Paladino, which calls for observing Veterans Day on Friday or Monday when it falls on a weekend. - The resolution …
0:01:23
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36 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Resolution 311 on property tax exemption for disabled veterans
Council Member Holden explains Resolution 311, which he sponsored, urging New York State to establish a property tax exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability. - The legislation has …
0:01:58
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31 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Resolution 465 on NYCHA admission preference for veterans
Council Member Holden explains Resolution 465, sponsored by council member Joanne Arriola, which calls on the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) to include an admission preference for veterans in …
0:02:29
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19 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Introduction 686 on supporting veteran street vendors
Council Member Holden explains Introduction 686, which he sponsored, aimed at better supporting veteran street vendors. - The bill proposes expanding representation on the advisory board. - It also aims …
0:02:49
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14 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Introduction 687 on waiving fees for veteran food vendors
Council Member Holden explains Introduction 687, which he sponsored, proposing to waive commissary permit fees for operators reserving spaces for veteran food vendors. - Holden emphasizes the importance of this …
0:03:03
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18 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Introduction 688 on addressing building violations for veteran service organizations
Council Member Holden explains Introduction 688, which he sponsored, aimed at providing additional time for veteran service organizations (VSOs) to address non-urgent building violations. - The bill addresses a longstanding …
0:03:21
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53 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Introduction 759 on rental assistance for homeless veterans
Council Member Holden explains Introduction 759, sponsored by council member Areola, which aims to provide critical rental assistance to homeless veterans. - Holden describes this as a common-sense bill that …
0:04:14
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36 sec
Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of connecting veterans with arts and culture opportunities
Council Member Holden highlights the critical importance of connecting veterans with arts and culture opportunities, a topic he considers often overlooked. - He emphasizes how arts programs can help veterans …
0:04:50
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37 sec
Council Member Holden shares his personal experience with arts education
Council Member Holden shares his personal experience with arts education and how it shaped his life and career. - He recounts how his high school art teacher recognized his talent …
0:05:27
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67 sec
Council Member Holden highlights arts organizations for veterans and acknowledges attendees
Council Member Holden concludes by mentioning several organizations making a difference in connecting veterans with arts and culture opportunities. He also acknowledges attendees and staff members. - Holden mentions organizations …
0:06:35
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88 sec
Introduction and overview of DVS efforts in supporting veteran artistic initiatives
Commissioner James Hendon of the NYC Department of Veterans Services (DVS) introduces the hearing on arts, culture, and DVS efforts to support veteran artistic initiatives across the city. He outlines …
0:08:56
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26 sec
Overview of legislative proposals being discussed
Commissioner Hendon outlines the legislative proposals that will be addressed during the testimony. These proposals focus on various aspects of veteran support and services. - Intro 686: Supporting veteran vendors …
0:09:22
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26 sec
Background on DVS's recognition of creative arts benefits for veterans
Commissioner Hendon provides background on DVS's longstanding recognition of the benefits of creative expression for veterans' well-being and rehabilitation. - DVS has recognized the benefits of creative expression since its …
0:09:50
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40 sec
Overview of three needs for culture and arts in veterans services
Commissioner Hendon introduces the three key needs for culture and arts in veterans services, setting the stage for a more detailed discussion of each need. - The commissioner identifies three …
0:10:30
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2 sec
Need 1: Diverse funding sources for arts programs
Commissioner Hendon discusses the first need for culture and arts in veterans services: diverse funding sources for arts programs. - The US Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes the benefits of …
0:10:33
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38 sec
Examples of DVS collaborations with arts organizations
Commissioner Hendon provides several examples of DVS collaborations with arts organizations and initiatives to support veterans through creative expression. - Collaboration with the Social Design Collective's Women Veterans Portrait Project …
0:11:12
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110 sec
Need 2: Self-identification of veterans
Commissioner Hendon addresses the second need for culture and arts in veterans services: the importance of veteran self-identification. - DVS takes the issue of veteran self-identification seriously - Statistics show …
0:13:03
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43 sec
DVS efforts to encourage veteran self-identification through arts and culture
Commissioner Hendon outlines specific efforts by DVS to encourage veteran self-identification through arts and cultural activities. - DVS maintains a weekly newsletter with a section dedicated to veterans in the …
0:13:46
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30 sec
Greater New York City Veteran and Military Families Summit at Yankee Stadium
Commissioner Hendon discusses the Greater New York City Veteran and Military Families Summit held at Yankee Stadium, highlighting its significance in connecting veterans with services and cultural activities. - The …
0:14:17
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79 sec
Need 3: Continuing and ongoing programs
Commissioner Hendon introduces the third need for culture and arts in veterans services: continuing and ongoing programs. - The commissioner emphasizes the importance of sustained programming for veterans - This …
0:15:37
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3 sec
Recent and upcoming arts-related initiatives for veterans
Commissioner Hendon outlines several recent and upcoming arts-related initiatives for veterans, demonstrating DVS's commitment to ongoing programs. - In July 2024, DVS coordinated a national veterans art exhibition at the …
0:15:40
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38 sec
Private First Class Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Program
Commissioner Hendon discusses the Private First Class Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Program, highlighting its focus on creative arts and peer support for veterans. - DVS is reviewing proposals …
0:16:18
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84 sec
Comments on specific legislative proposals
Commissioner Hendon provides comments on several legislative proposals related to veterans' issues and services. - Intro 686 (Supporting veteran vendors): The city supports an additional seat for the veteran community …
0:17:43
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120 sec
Importance of veteran self-identification in various contexts
Commissioner Hendon emphasizes the critical importance of veteran self-identification across various contexts and services. - The issue of veteran self-identification permeates all sectors of the community, including those experiencing housing …
0:19:44
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93 sec
Information on applying for discretionary funding and community board positions
Commissioner Hendon provides important information on how organizations and individuals can apply for discretionary funding and community board positions related to veterans' issues. - Organizations interested in discretionary funding for …
0:21:18
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106 sec
Ellen Greeley discusses the Dwyer program launch and the impact of arts on veterans' well-being
Ellen Greeley, Assistant Commissioner for Policy and Strategic Partnerships at NYC Department of Veterans Services, discusses the launch of the Dwyer program and emphasizes the importance of creative and healing …
0:23:04
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122 sec
Curtis Dorval's Testimony on the Importance of Arts and Culture for Veterans
Curtis Dorval, Digital Communications Manager for NYC Department of Veterans Services, testifies about the importance of arts and culture in fostering community and healing for veterans. He shares his experience …
0:25:10
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3 min
Curtis Dorval shares his journey into filmmaking and the Air Force
Curtis Dorval, Digital Communications Manager for NYC Department of Veterans Services, discusses his background in arts and decision to join the Air Force. He explains how he faced a crossroads …
0:28:27
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40 sec
The impact of arts and filmmaking on veterans' lives
Council Member Holden and Curtis Dorval discuss the significant impact of arts, particularly filmmaking, on veterans' lives. Dorval expresses how filmmaking became his passion beyond his roles as a father …
0:29:08
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38 sec
Council Member Holden shares his personal experience with arts and its importance
Council Member Holden shares his personal journey with arts, emphasizing its life-changing impact and the importance of finding purpose through creative pursuits. He discusses how art education influenced his career …
0:29:47
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158 sec
Discussion on supporting legislation for veterans' housing priority
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss potential legislation to give veterans priority in housing. While the Commissioner cannot explicitly endorse the legislation, he expresses support for its intent. - …
0:32:25
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74 sec
Self-identification issues for veterans and housing challenges in NYC
Commissioner Hendon and Council Member Holden discuss the challenges of veteran self-identification and the broader housing shortage in New York City. They explore potential solutions and existing programs to address …
0:33:40
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78 sec
DVS and City Council collaboration for improved veteran outreach
Commissioner Hendon outlines plans for collaboration between the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and City Council to improve veteran outreach and self-identification. He discusses data sharing and the development of …
0:34:59
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39 sec
Council Member Holden discusses Intro 688 on cure periods for VSO violations
Council Member Robert Holden discusses Intro 688, which proposes cure periods for certain violations by Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs). He emphasizes that the legislation is not primarily a funding issue …
0:35:38
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46 sec
Discussion on challenges faced by VSOs due to aging membership
Commissioner James Hendon and Council Member Robert Holden engage in a discussion about the challenges faced by Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs), particularly focusing on the issue of aging membership and …
0:36:25
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81 sec
Nature of violations faced by VSOs and potential solutions
Commissioner James Hendon explains the nature of violations commonly faced by Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) and discusses potential solutions to address these issues. - Most DOB violations are related to …
0:37:46
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120 sec
Demographic challenges in VSO membership and leadership
Council Member Robert Holden and Commissioner James Hendon discuss the demographic challenges faced by Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) in terms of membership and leadership. - Holden notes that some VSOs …
0:39:46
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70 sec
Proposal for funding VSOs through council member items
Council Member Robert Holden proposes ideas for funding Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) through council member items, emphasizing the importance of supporting these organizations. - Holden suggests allocating $50,000 per council …
0:40:57
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87 sec
DVS outreach strategies for informing veterans about arts and cultural programs
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) outreach strategies for informing veterans about available arts and cultural programs. Commissioner James Hendon and DVS staff members …
0:42:24
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153 sec
Metropolitan Museum of Art's special opening for veterans and collaboration strategies
Commissioner James Hendon discusses the Metropolitan Museum of Art's recent special opening for veterans and the strategies used to make such events successful. Council Member Robert Holden expresses interest in …
0:44:58
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85 sec
Collaboration with arts organizations and challenges for veteran artists
Ellen Greeley, Assistant Commissioner for Policy and Strategic Partnerships at DVS, discusses various arts initiatives for veterans and the challenges faced by veteran artists in New York City. - DVS …
0:46:25
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3 min
Museum admission policies and programs for veterans
Council Member Robert Holden, Ellen Greeley, Curtis Dorval, and Commissioner James Hendon discuss museum admission policies and programs for veterans in New York City. - Council Member Holden suggests compiling …
0:49:39
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174 sec
DVS efforts to ensure inclusivity in arts programs for veterans with disabilities
Council Member Holden inquires about DVS's methods for ensuring arts and cultural programs are inclusive and accessible for veterans with disabilities. Commissioner Hendon explains DVS's role in assisting and informing …
0:52:36
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133 sec
Role of arts-based therapies in supporting veterans' well-being
Council Member Holden inquires about the role of arts-based therapies in supporting veterans' mental and emotional well-being. Commissioner Hendon and Ellen Greeley discuss the importance of these programs in DVS's …
0:54:49
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131 sec
Collecting feedback and measuring outcomes of arts programs for veterans
Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of collecting feedback and measuring outcomes from arts programs for veterans. Ellen Greeley discusses DVS's plans for gathering this information. - DVS has experience …
0:57:01
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54 sec
Personal experiences and success stories in arts programs for veterans
Council Member Holden asks Curtis Dorval to share success stories from his experience working with veterans in arts programs. Both Dorval and Holden share personal anecdotes about the transformative power …
0:57:55
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4 min
Challenges in measuring success and broader perspectives on veterans' engagement with art
Commissioner Hendon discusses the challenges of measuring success across various cultural institutions and provides a broader perspective on veterans' engagement with art. - DVS can measure success for programs they …
1:02:35
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135 sec
Additional resources and support needed for DVS to expand arts opportunities
Council Member Holden inquires about additional resources or support that would enable DVS to expand arts and cultural opportunities for veterans. Commissioner Hendon discusses funding priorities and potential legislative actions. …
1:04:51
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4 min
Council Member Marmorato discusses veteran art programs and local gallery opportunities
Council Member Kristy Marmorato expresses enthusiasm for arts programs for veterans and inquires about creating a list of organizations offering such programs. She also suggests the possibility of featuring veteran …
1:09:27
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135 sec
Council Member Holden and Commissioner Hendon discuss veteran engagement in arts and community boards
Council Member Robert Holden and DVS Commissioner James Hendon discuss ways to connect veterans with arts opportunities and encourage their participation in community boards. They exchange ideas on steering veterans …
1:11:44
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112 sec
Testimony by Karen Loew, Chair of Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP) Committee at Salmagundi Club
Karen Loew presented testimony about the Coast Guard Art Program (COGAP) and its role in honoring Coast Guard service members through art. She highlighted the program's collaboration with the Salmagundi …
1:16:02
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3 min
Testimony by Roman Baca, Artistic Director and Cofounder of Exit12 Dance Company
Roman Baca, a US Marine Iraq war veteran and the artistic director of Exit12 Dance Company, testified about the power of dance and storytelling in healing veterans and educating the …
1:19:18
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4 min
Council Member Holden discusses success story with Roman Baca
Council Member Robert Holden asks Roman Baca of Exit12 Dance Company for a success story demonstrating the impact of their work. Baca shares a powerful account of a Vietnam veteran …
1:24:02
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114 sec
Karen Loew shares impact of Coast Guard Art Program on veterans
Karen Loew, Chair of the Coast Guard Art Program Committee at the Salmagundi Club, shares her experiences with how art has positively impacted veterans and active-duty service members. She provides …
1:26:10
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144 sec
Testimony by Coco Culhane, Founder and Executive Director of Veteran Advocacy Project
Coco Culhane from the Veteran Advocacy Project provided testimony focusing on proposed legislation for veteran housing vouchers. She advocated for creating a city-level program similar to HUD-VASH, utilizing DVS for …
1:30:38
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117 sec
Testimony by Joe Bello, Member of the Public
Joe Bello provides clarifications and criticisms regarding the Department of Veterans Services (DVS) testimony, pointing out inaccuracies in their claims about various programs and collaborations. He also expresses concerns about …
1:32:41
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133 sec
Testimony by Eric Lee, Director of Public Policy at Volunteers of America Greater New York (VOA-GNY)
Eric Lee from Volunteers of America Greater New York (VOA-GNY) testified in support of Intro 759, which aims to expand rental assistance for homeless veterans. He provided several recommendations to …
1:35:35
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153 sec
Council member inquires about impact of street sweeps on homeless veterans
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the frequency and impact of street sweeps on homeless veterans, particularly regarding the loss of important documents. Eric Lee from VOA-GNY provides detailed information …
1:38:09
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81 sec
Testimony by Roger Walker, Program Director of Samaritan Daytop Village Veterans Program
Roger Walker, Program Director of Samaritan Daytop Village Veterans Program, testifies about the importance of arts and culture in supporting and uplifting veterans. He emphasizes the effectiveness of art therapy …
1:39:35
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4 min
Council Member Holden emphasizes the importance of exhibiting artwork in veterans' facilities
Council Member Robert Holden commends Samaritan Daytop Village for exhibiting artwork throughout their buildings. He emphasizes the therapeutic value of not only creating art but also displaying it for others …
1:44:02
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42 sec
Testimony by Timothy Pena, Founder of Veterans Justice Project, on Veterans' Housing and Support Services
Timothy Pena, founder of Veterans Justice Project, testifies about the challenges faced by veterans in accessing appropriate housing and support services in New York City. He highlights the discrepancies in …
1:46:06
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3 min
Council member inquires about food quality issues at Borden Avenue veterans shelter
Council Member Robert Holden engages in a discussion with Timothy Pena about the poor food quality and related issues at the Borden Avenue veterans shelter. Pena highlights problems with food …
1:49:32
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92 sec
Council member discusses culinary program and kitchen use at Borden Avenue veterans shelter
Council Member Robert Holden inquires about the culinary program and kitchen use at the Borden Avenue veterans shelter, revealing issues with the program's accessibility and the lack of proper food …
1:51:05
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99 sec
Testimony by George Singleton, President of Disabled Veterans of New York, on Challenges Faced by Disabled Veteran Vendors
George Singleton, President of Disabled Veterans of New York, testifies about the challenges faced by disabled veteran vendors in New York City. He emphasizes the need for clearer legislation to …
1:52:50
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3 min
Council member acknowledges issues faced by disabled veteran vendors
Council Member Robert Holden responds to testimony about challenges faced by disabled veteran vendors. He acknowledges the issue of disabled vendors being pushed out and explains that the council is …
1:55:52
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35 sec
Testimony by Fred Gasior, President of Vietnam Veterans of America Manhattan Chapter 126, on Veterans' Issues in New York City
Fred Gasior, a Vietnam combat veteran and president of the Vietnam Veterans of America Manhattan Chapter 126, delivers a passionate testimony criticizing the New York City Council's lack of support …
1:56:27
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7 min
Testimony by Frederic Hart, Veteran Street Vendor
Frederic Hart, a veteran street vendor, testified about the challenges and disrespect he faces while trying to make a living in Times Square. He expressed frustration with the lack of …
2:03:48
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109 sec
Testimony by Michael Matos, 1st Vice Commander of American Legion Post 917
Michael Matos, a Coast Guard veteran and 1st Vice Commander of American Legion Post 917, testifies about concerns regarding potential cuts to VA benefits and the importance of supporting veterans. …
2:06:11
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109 sec
Testimony by Armando Crescenzi on Street Vending and Veterans' Issues
Armando Crescenzi testified about the importance of street vending for veterans and provided comments on several resolutions and introductions related to veterans' issues. He emphasized the need for better support …
2:08:13
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8 min
Testimony by Gene De Francis on Veteran Culture and Issues
Gene De Francis, a member of the public and artist, testified about the unique culture of veterans and the challenges they face. He emphasized the importance of understanding veteran culture …
2:18:14
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4 min
Testimony by Raymond Ponce de Leon, Veteran and Street Vendor, on Challenges Faced by Veteran Vendors and Lack of Information on Veterans' Programs
Raymond Ponce de Leon, a Vietnam veteran and street vendor, testifies about the challenges faced by veteran vendors in New York City, including difficulties with licensing, inspections, and harassment. He …
2:22:40
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4 min
Testimony by Walter Wells, Disabled Vietnam Veteran
Walter Wells, a disabled Vietnam veteran, testifies about the challenges faced by veteran street vendors in New York City. He describes issues with permit errors, competition from non-veteran vendors, and …
2:28:02
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3 min
Council member questions veteran street vendor about ticketing and harassment
Council Member Robert Holden engages in a Q&A session with Walter Wells, a veteran street vendor, about the challenges faced by veteran vendors. They discuss issues of ticketing, harassment, and …
2:31:33
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62 sec
Council member addresses concerns and promises action on veteran vendor issues
Council Member Robert Holden concludes the discussion by acknowledging the issues raised by Walter Wells and promising to address them. He expresses agreement with the unfairness of the situation faced …
2:32:35
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30 sec
Testimony by Sharon Brown Jeter on Veterans' Support and Housing
Sharon Brown Jeter provides testimony emphasizing the importance of supporting veterans, particularly in terms of housing and business opportunities. She advocates for immediate housing solutions for veterans and proposes giving …
2:33:06
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3 min
Testimony by Lenny Williams, President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 32, on Veterans' Homelessness and Borden Avenue Shelter
Lenny Williams, President of Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 32, testified about issues with the Borden Avenue Veterans Shelter and the treatment of homeless veterans. He shared a personal experience …
2:36:49
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5 min
Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson on Street Vending and Veterans' Issues
Christopher Leon Johnson testifies in support of Intro 686 and Intro 687, focusing on issues related to street vending and veterans. He criticizes the Street Vendor Project and highlights corruption …
2:44:01
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3 min
