Rafael Espinal

Lower East Side "late night quality of life improvement plan" announced by de Blasio

Mayor Bill de Blasio and the Office of Nightlife take aim at the 24-block chunk of the Lower East Side dubbed “Hell’s Square,” where the density of bars and clubs has been accused of ruining the neighborhood.

NYC Office of Nightlife launches new website & social media accounts

The new online home for NYC’s Office of Nightlife collects resources, guidelines, and other information pertinent to running a venue, club, or other nightlife operation.

consent posters coming to some NYC clubs (and may become law)

Brooklyn Councilmember Rafael Espinal is planning legislation that would require businesses to post signage advising patrons on what to do if they’re experiencing harassment.

NY Music Month returns in June (free rehearsal space, conferences & more)

Last year, the Mayor’s office declared June as New York Music Month, with concerts, conferences, free resources for musicians, and more. This year’s theme is “Innovation at the Intersection of Music + Nightlife” and they’ve announced the schedule of events…

FOMO party raided by cops; meet the Night Mayor in Bushwick tonight

NYC’s first NightMayor, Ariel Palitz, will make her first official public appearance tonight (3/26) at Secret Project Robot with a panel discussion where she will hear from advocates, community members, business owners and artists…

watch a documentary about NYC DIY venues

The 25-minute documentary features interviews with Todd P, Beach Fossils, Frankie Cosmos, City Councilman Rafael Espinal, and more.

Mayor de Blasio signed NYC Office of Nightlife bill at House of Yes

Mayor Bill de Blasio was at Bushwick venue House of Yes on Tuesday night (9/19) to sign the bill that officially creates the NYC Office of Nightlife. with a 12-member committee headed by the so-called Night Mayor. Marky Ramone was on-hand for the signing.

NYC officially getting a Nightlife Commission and "Night Mayor"

It’s official: New York City is getting a “Night Mayor.” After being proposed by Councilman Rafael Espinal earlier this year, The City Council voted Thursday (8/24) to create a Nightlife Commission, with 12 members plus someone to head it…

NYC getting an official 'Nighttime Ambassador' advocate for music and nightlife

NYC will join other cities in getting an office dedicated to nightlife. The creation of a Nighttime Ambassador is part of New York Works, a ten-year economic plan from the mayor’s office, which also includes making affordable workspace for artists.