Wednesday, September 7, 2016

BRONX DISTRICT ATTORNEY DISMISSES ASSAULT CASE AGAINST MAMADOU DIALLO


 Bronx Man Will Not Be Prosecuted in Death of Wife’s Attempted Rapist 

 Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark today announced that a 61-year-old Bronx man will not be prosecuted in the death of a man he had beaten for trying to rape his wife in their apartment. 
 District Attorney Clark said, “This case was a tragedy for all whose lives intersected in that Bronx building on the night of May 30, 2016. 
 Mamadou Diallo’s wife was brutally assaulted in her home by Earl Nash. Diallo rushed to save her and struck Nash with a tire iron as he tried to escape. Nash died from cardiorespiratory complications associated with his injuries, acute cocaine intoxication and heart disease. “Mamadou Diallo was charged with Assault, and the Diallos’ lives were changed forever. Earl Nash’s family mourned him while expressing compassion for the Diallo family,” District Attorney Clark continued. 
 “We waited for three months for the autopsy results, and after a thorough investigation as well as discussions with the deceased’s family we have determined that no grand jury action is warranted. We are dismissing the charges against Mamadou Diallo,” District Attorney Clark said. 
  Assistant District Attorney Jennifer Cruz told Bronx Supreme Court Justice Marc Whiten during a court appearance for Diallo today, “The District Attorney’s Office has reviewed all of the evidence in this case and has analyzed the relevant law. We also have spoken with and consulted both the decedent’s family and the Diallo family, and finally have reviewed the Medical Examiner’s report which detailed the contributing factors which caused Mr. Nash’s death. 
  “After this intensive review, the District Attorney’s Office has made the decision to move to dismiss all charges against Mr. Diallo stemming from the May 30th incident. The events of May 30th were truly tragic and the Office commends both families for their empathy in this most difficult of circumstances.
  Assistant District Attorney Cruz read a statement from the Nash family that said in part, “We truly believe that both the Nash and the Diallo family have suffered a great deal of pain as a result of May 30, 2016….While we cannot undo the damage that was done that evening, we hope to bring some closure not only to our family but to the Diallo family as well. As such, we wholeheartedly recommend that District Attorney Clark dismiss all charges against Mamadou Diallo.” 
 According to the investigation, Nash, 43, had forced his way into the Diallos’ Claremont Village apartment after he saw Diallo leave. He pulled his pants down, ripped off the wife’s clothes, beat her and tried to rape her. She called her husband saying she was being raped. Diallo called 911 on his way back to the apartment, and confronted Nash in the elevator, striking him with a tire iron. 
 Police and Emergency Medical Service arrived and took Nash to Lincoln Hospital, where he died. Diallo was charged with Assault, Criminal Possession of a Weapon and Harassment on May 31, 2016. 
  On August 26, 2016, the Medical Examiner ruled that the death was caused at least in part by the actions of another person and therefore was a homicide. The cause of death was cardiorespiratory complications associated with blunt force trauma of the head, torso and upper extremities, acute cocaine intoxication and hypertensive and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. 

Owner And Chief Executive Officer Of Beauty Products Company Sentenced In Manhattan Federal Court For Multimillion-Dollar Accounting Fraud Scheme


   Preet Bharara, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that EMANUEL COHEN, the former chief executive officer of a Florida-based wholesaler and distributor of beauty products (the “Company”), was sentenced today to 27 months in prison for orchestrating a fraudulent scheme to obtain millions of dollars in loans by making false statements and providing fraudulent documents to two commercial banks based in New York (the “Banks”).  COHEN pled guilty on June 23, 2015, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn.  Today’s sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan.
Manhattan U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said:  “Emanuel Cohen and his co-conspirators blatantly lied about their company’s financial condition to obtain millions of dollars in loans, which the company later defaulted on.  I want to thank the FBI for their excellent investigative work on this case.”
According to the allegations contained in the information to which COHEN pled guilty, other documents filed in Manhattan federal court, and statements made in court proceedings:
From 2007 through March 2014, COHEN and others engaged in a scheme to fraudulently induce the Banks to lend millions of dollars to the Company.  Among other things, COHEN knowingly made false representations to the Banks, concealed material facts from the Banks, and submitted false and fraudulent documents to the Banks, including fabricated borrowing base certificates.  Specifically, COHEN falsely inflated the Company’s sales and accounts receivable on borrowing base certificates that were provided to the Banks pursuant to loan agreements between the Banks and the Company.  COHEN used those falsely inflated sales and accounts receivable to mislead the Banks about the Company’s true financial performance so that the Company could secure and draw down millions of dollars in loans from the Banks that the Company would not otherwise have been entitled to receive. 
In March 2014, the Company defaulted on the loans at issue.  At that time, the outstanding balance on the loans was more than $4.8 million.
In addition to his prison term, COHEN, 73, of Boca Raton, Florida, was sentenced to three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay forfeiture and restitution, both in the amount of $4,888,460.35.
Three other defendants in this matter, Jay Sosonko, the chief financial officer of the Company, Thomas Thompson, the sales manager of the Company, and Marc Wieselthier, the Company’s outside accountant, pled guilty for their roles in the fraudulent scheme.  Sosonko, Thompson, and Wieselthier were sentenced to 16 months, 21 days, and 27 months in prison, respectively. 
Mr. Bharara praised the investigative work of the FBI.

Statement From A.G. Schneiderman On Closure Of ITT Technical Institute


Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman issued the following statement on the announcement that ITT Technical Institute, a for-profit college operated by ITT Educational Services, Inc. (“ITT”), with campuses in Albany, Syracuse, and Buffalo, will be closing its doors:
“Many hardworking New York students have enrolled at ITT campuses across the state and invested significant time and resources into their education. That is why my office wants to ensure all students affected by ITT’s closure clearly understand their options moving forward. I encourage those with student loans to consult tips from my office and from the Department of Education in order to advance and restart their education as quickly and inexpensively as possible.”
ITT’s announcement follows a decision of the United States Department of Education to suspend federal aid to new students enrolling at ITT on the ground that ITT failed to meet its accreditor’s standards.
How to Apply for Debt Relief
Certain ITT students are eligible for a full discharge (erasure) of their federal student loans due to ITT’s closure.  This type of loan discharge is called a “Closed School Discharge.” Students eligible for a Closed School Discharge include students who were enrolled when the school closed or on an approved leave of absence when the school closed; or who withdrew from the school in the 120 days prior to the school’s closure. 
For instructions on how to apply for a “Closed School Discharge,” students should click here.  Students will not be eligible for a Closed School Discharge if they choose to transfer credits and complete their program of study or a comparable program at another school. 
Students who are not eligible for a “Closed School Discharge” may be eligible for debt relief if their school committed fraud or otherwise violated state law.  This type of loan discharge is called a “Borrower Defense to Repayment.”  To obtain a “Borrower Defense to Repayment” discharge, students must submit a claim to the Department of Education that describes the school’s misconduct.  The Department of Education is currently developing a new process for submitting such a claim.  Borrowers may wish to wait for information about this new process to be made available before applying.  If students choose to submit claims before the new process is available, claims may be submitted via e-mail to FSAOperations@ed.gov or by mail to: Department of Education, PO Box 194407, San Francisco, CA 94119.  For instructions on what information to include with a “Borrower Defense to Repayment” claim, visit here.

Senator Rev. Rubén Díaz - Mayor de Blasio Insults the Puerto Rican and the Irish Communities


  You should know that on September 5, 2016, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio compared the crimes committed during J’Ouvert festival that precedes the West Indian Day Parade with the Puerto Rican Day Parade and the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade by stating:
“It was not that long ago that the St. Patrick's Parade, the Puerto Rican Parade was plagued by violence … We do not associate, now, the St. Patrick's Parade with violence or the Puerto Rican Parade with violence.”
As you know, for years the J’Ouvert Festival has been riddled with crime, bloodshed, fatal stabbings, gun violence and assassinations, and each year, the situation gets worse.
We have to do something to stop these outbursts of violence and senseless loss of life that occurs during this event!
It is insulting, disrespectful and shameful for Mayor de Blasio, in an attempt to protect his political base, to compare the past and present state of affairs with the Puerto Rican Day Parade and the Saint Patrick’s Day Parades.  
It is important for you to know that neither of those parades that took place during the daytime were ever plagued with the violence that has infested the pre-dawn J’Ouvert.
Mayor de Blasio owes an apology to the Puerto Rican community, the Irish community, and to the Parade organizers!
My thoughts and prayers remain with the families and loved ones who were murdered during this year’s J’Ouvert: Tyreke Borel, the 17-year-old who was shot in the chest and killed this year, and with Tiarah Poyau, the 22-year-old who was shot in the face because she refused to dance.  I also pray for the 72-year-old woman and a 20-year-old man were also shot and survived, and the dozens and dozens J’Ouvert’s victims
I suggest to Mayor de Blasio that if he wants to keep the J'Ouvert festival in place, he should be man enough to do so and not use the Puerto Rican Day Parade and the Saint Patrick's Day Parades as his scapegoats.

EDITOR'S NOTE:
It should be noted that Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. the son of State Senator Ruben Diaz Sr. has been mentioned as a possible candidate for mayor in the Democratic primary of 2017, and would be challenging the current incumbent Democratic Mayor, Bill de Blasio.

CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS WILLIAMS, LANDER, AND GIBSON STATEMENT ON NYPD RESPONSE TO INSPECTOR GENERAL'S REPORT ON QUALITY-OF-LIFE ENFORCEMENT


   "We are disappointed with the NYPD's response to the Inspector General's (IG) recent report on Quality-of-Life Enforcement. The City Council created the Office of the Inspector General to ensure that NYPD policies and procedures are operating effectively and consistently with the law -- with the understanding that everyone in NYC, including the NYPD, will benefit from a more accountable, efficient police force.
 
"Their recent report achieved exactly what the Office of the Inspector General was intended to do: based on sound statistical evidence, the IG report found that certain NYPD broken windows strategies do not have a measurable impact on violent crime in NYC, and set forth recommendations to improve these strategies for more data-driven, measurable, and equitable impacts on our communities. IG Eure's report was objective, fair and written with the intent to reduce tensions between the NYPD and the diverse communities it serves -- not to inflame them.
 
"Contrary to what the NYPD is presenting, the IG's report is in agreement with the NYPD's findings about the correlation between quality-of-life summons and preventing serious crime. According to the NYPD's report, 'there is no strict mathematical relationship between these two factors.' This supports the need for more effective, measurable policing practices. In essence, the NYPD's report is splitting hairs, in refuting their previous claim that the Broken Windows Theory leads to a direct decrease in felony crime, but instead fosters 'a general atmosphere of order and a general sense of police presence.'
 
"It is extremely disappointing to see that Commissioner Bratton has not only obstinately refused the IG's sensible recommendations, but has attempted to disparage and discredit the IG's vital work in the process. We look forward to working more productively with incoming Commissioner O'Neill to improve policing and police-community relations in NYC."

Holy Smokes, Look Who’s Returning to NYCC on Thursday Oct. 6th


New York Comic Con - NYCC

batman: return of the caped crusaders with adam west thursday at NYCC
thursday tickets are still available.
bookcon @ new york comic con fan favorite authors join bookcon @ NYCC
the walking dead collector's models
order your photo ops today.
arrive onsite prepared! check out the nycc floor plan
nycc presents stuff you missed in history class

CB7 Committee Meetings Thursday September 8th



The following two CB7 committee meetings will be held tomorrow at the Board office:

Traffic and Transportation 6:30 PM

Veterans Committee meeting 7:30 PM

Andrew Sandler  District Manager

Bronx Community Board 7

229-A East 204th Street Bronx, NY 10458

P: 718-933-5650/51
F: 718-933-1829



Serving the Communities of Bedford Park, Fordham, Jerome Park, Kingsbridge Heights, Mosholu, Norwood, and University Heights in the Bronx

52 Pct Community Council Meeting- Sept. 22, 2016


  The 52nd Precinct Council Meeting will be held at The Kinginston Building: 2455 Sedgwick Avenue Bronx NY, Thursday, September 22, 2016 from 7:00pm–9:00pm(opposite) Fordham Hills Oval Cooperative Apartments. See the attached flyer for details. The Precinct Council will also be collecting food and clothing in partnership with Community Board 7 and Council Member Andrew Cohen for the victims of the fire at 267 East 202nd Street. 

MAYOR DE BLASIO APPEARS LIVE ON 1010 WINS TALKING EDUCATION


WINS: We are joined live now on 1010 WINS by Mayor Bill de Blasio who’s going to be talking education. Good morning, Mr. Mayor, so, school starts tomorrow – big day – but the City, today, is rolling out several new education initiatives. So, let’s run them down, bullet point style. One is aimed at increasing economic diversity. Tell us about that.
Mayor: Well, you know, in all that we’re doing in the schools, we want to increase the quality-level of all our schools – the program is called Equity and Excellence. And the idea is that there should be no such thing as a “bad school” in any neighborhood, that we have to bring the level up across the board. But it’s also important to ensure that our kids get to learn together from all backgrounds. So, one of the things we’ve seen some very good success on in schools is admissions models that recognize kids of different economic backgrounds making sure that they get well represented across the board in our schools. So, that’s been one new initiative.
 But the overall frame system is Equity and Excellence. And basically it says we’re going to make sure that across the board we’re raising the quality-level of schools, we’re raising the demand-level too because our young people are going to be confronted by a much tougher world than when you and I were growing up. They have to get a better education. They have to be prepared for a demanding economy. We need that to happen across the school system, not just in some of the best schools but across the school system.
WINS: And so what specifically can the City do to expand diversity at some of the specialized high schools like Bronx Science and Stuyvesant?
Mayor: First, we need the State government to go along with changing the admissions. I don’t think anything should be decided by a single test. College admissions are not decided by a single test – even to the finest colleges in the country. I don’t think our very best high schools should base their admissions on a single test. I think there should be multiple measures. But that’s something we can only achieve through the State Legislature.
 What we will do in the meantime is add a number of measures to help prepare kids for the test from all backgrounds so there really can be representation. Right now, a school like Stuyvesant just does not represent the population of New York City in any way [inaudible] and reflects the reality of this city.
 We have to do a lot more to prepare kids to succeed on the test so long as that is the State sanctioned way to get into a school like that.
WINS:  Alright, there’s also a literacy initiative. Tell us about that –
Mayor: Yes, well, let me tell you the most important thing – I hear this from educators all the time – is to get kids to reading level by 3rd grade. And when you do that, when a kid reaches reading level by 3rd grade a lot of other things become possible. If they don’t, it really holds them back. So, we started with Pre-K for All which has been a great success. And I want to remind all your listeners if they have a four-year-old still not signed up for pre-K all they have to do is call 3-1-1 or go online to nyc.gov– plenty of seats still available.
 But on top of pre-K we’re going to emphasize reading and literacy in 2nd grade into 3rd grade – we’re adding a number of reading coaches and specialists on a level we’ve never had before so that we can really help teachers to improve what they’re doing with kids but also help the individual children who need extra attention.
 Our goal over the next ten years is to go from where we were when this administration started – about 30 percent of kids in this system reading at grade level by 3rd grade – absolutely unacceptable number. We want to get that to 100 percent over the course of the next ten years.
WINS: Another initiative that is a bit controversial has to do with altering the disciplinary code. Some of the teacher’s union is saying there’s not enough training in personnel or funding. There’s also concern that this may disproportionately affect minority students. What is going to be done with that?
Mayor: Well, what we’re seeing already is amazing progress on reducing crime in our schools and reducing violent incidents. I give a lot of credit to our school safety officers and, obviously, our teachers and parents as well. Over the last five years – 35 percent decrease in crime in our schools. And that started – I want to give credit – it started in Mayor Bloomberg’s administration. We’ve been able to add to that quite a bit.
 So, the fact is the schools are getting safer consistently. At the same time, we found that we can change the approach to discipline – reduce the number of suspensions. Suspensions, in my view, sometimes they are warranted but a lot of times they were overused, and basically did not help kids in terms of their education, and didn’t improve safety in the schools – and in some cases would exacerbate a problem a young person was having.
 We found that with reduced use of suspensions, we’re simultaneously getting better numbers on reducing crime in the school. So, those two things are actually going together.
 Also, I have a different – I have a lot of respect for the teachers and their union, but we have a difference – we don’t think there should be suspensions of kids in kindergarten, for example. It’s just something where I part company with the teacher’s union because I think it’s inappropriate even if a kid has a problem. I don’t think they should be suspended at that kind of early age.
WINS: What about the 85 struggling schools that may be approaching a three-year deadline for getting their act together. What is going on with that?
Mayor: Well, I’m very clear about the fact that we gave them time – about three years – and a lot of support to be able to turn around. And we’re seeing some very big improvements in a lot of these Renewal Schools. These are the schools that have had historic trouble and needed a lot more support. We’ve seen improved test scores in many cases. We’ve seen improved amounts of attendance, etcetera. But I’ve said, starting from two years ago, that we would go into this next year and any school that had not made sufficient progress, we’re either going to merge it into another school or shut it down. But I’m very hopeful based on what I’ve seen so far that most of the schools are moving in the right direction. And we’ll continue to support them.
WINS: And when do you think announcements about those schools will be made?
Mayor: We’re going to give them this school year, and in the case – by the way, some we can see already are succeeding and we know will do well in the long term. Others have already – small number – but several have been already in the process of shutting down or being merged. By the end of the school year, we’ll have a clear picture of what we want to do with the remainder.

EDITOR'S NOTE:
It seems that ten years of mayoral control has done very little if any to advance the goals outlined above by Mayor De Blasio. I would hope that the entire state legislature (not just those Republicans in Albany) have noticed how mayoral control has failed in New York City public schools. 

Tuesday, September 6, 2016

A.G. Schneiderman Launches Antitrust Investigation Into Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc., Maker Of Epipen


  Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman announced his office has commenced an investigation into Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc, the maker of EpiPens. A preliminary review by the Office of the Attorney General revealed that Mylan Pharmaceuticals may have inserted potentially anticompetitive terms into its EpiPen sales contracts with numerous local school systems. Mylan’s EpiPen is the predominant epinephrine autoinjector—a device and drug used in cases where an individual suffers a severe allergic reaction, which could otherwise lead to death—in the U.S. market.

  “No child’s life should be put at risk because a parent, school, or healthcare provider cannot afford a simple, life-saving device because of a drug-maker’s anti-competitive practices,”Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman said.  “If Mylan engaged in anti-competitive business practices, or violated antitrust laws with the intent and effect of limiting lower cost competition, we will hold them accountable. Allergy sufferers have enough concerns to worry about—the availability of life-saving medical treatment should not be one of them. I will bring the full resources of my office to this critical investigation.”

Council Member Jumaane D. Williams - STATEMENT ON FATAL SHOOTINGS DURING J'OUVERT



Council Member Jumaane D. Williams, Deputy Leader, and Co-chair of the Council's Task Force to Combat Gun Violence released the following statement after 17-year-old Tyreke Borel and 22-year-old Tiarah Poyau were killed early Monday morning during J'Ouvert. 

"It's with a heavy heart that there is need to write another letter like this one. I send prayers of peace and comfort to the families of Tyreke Borel and Tiarah Poyau, who lost their lives during what should have been a time of festivities and not fear. I'd also like to send prayers of speedy recovery for the victims who survived. It's unfortunate that as a community, a joyous time like the Carnival season has once again been marred by incidents of gun violence.

"The primary thing we should be doing now is supporting those families who are in mourning, and dealing intimately with the impacts of violence. After that there will be sufficient time to fully discuss what actions should be taken as it relates to next year's season, and J'Ouvert in particular.

"We should also continue a very real discussion about gun violence as a whole. The type of violence that takes place during J'Ouvert should be inclusive of the epidemic that plagues our communities year round. An honest discussion is owed to those who are dealing with this chronic type of violence."

Editor's Note:
Councilman Jumaane Williams represents the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Flatlands, and parts of Midwood and Canarsie.

D. WILLMS

New York City Experiences Safest Summer in Modern History


Decreases in every index crime category and a 9.3% drop in overall crime for August 2016, compared with 2015

  New York City experienced the safest summer – in overall crimes reported – in the entire Compstat-era that began in 1994. There were 1,610 fewer crimes reported during the months of June, July and August 2016, or a 5% decrease, compared with the same period in 2015. This also marks a 73% decrease, or 73,463 fewer crimes, compared with the same period in 1994 – the initial year Compstat was implemented under Police Commissioner William J. Bratton’s first tenure leading the NYPD.

For the month of August 2016, each category of index crime experienced a decrease – resulting in 957 fewer total index crimes reported, or a 9% reduction, compared with August 2015. Murder is down one crime, or -2.9% for the month of August 2016, compared with August 2015. Also for the month of August 2016: rape is down 10 crimes, or -6.7%; robbery is down 247 crimes, or -15%; felonious assault is down 162 crimes, or -7.6%; burglary is down 289 crimes, or -20%; grand larceny is down 224 crimes, or -5.4%; and grand larceny auto is down 23 crimes, or -3.3%.


Today marks Commissioner Bratton’s final crime press briefing.  For context, there were 1,946 murders in 1993. There were 352 murders in 2015.  In calculating the annual reduction in murders over the ensuing two decades, it can be inferred that approximately 28,800 fewer murders have occurred in New York City since Commissioner Bratton first implemented Compstat with the late-Jack Maple in 1994.    

“Detractors said it couldn’t be done. We have further reduced violence and serious crime across this city, yet again,” said Police Commissioner William J. Bratton. “The tremendous focus on a small group of criminals has resulted in these unprecedented declines in crime – as violence has increased in other American cities significantly. To the men and women of this Department, thank you for what you do every day to make this the safest big city in America.”
“Our city just experienced the safest summer since the NYPD broke ground with Compstat more than two decades ago. It is clear from our success this summer that neighborhood policing works,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “Commissioner Bill Bratton has helped make our city the safest big city in America. We owe the Commissioner an extraordinary debt of gratitude for the lives he has saved and the security he has brought neighborhoods across our five boroughs. While the achievements of Commissioner Bratton can never be replicated, I have never been more confident in the future of the NYPD than I am today knowing that Chief Jimmy O’Neill will continue the department’s focus on precision and neighborhood policing as we deepen the bond between officers and the communities they serve and protect.”  

Note: All crime statistics are preliminary and subject to further analysis, revisions, or change.

Public Advocate Letitia James Endorses State Senator Gustavo Rivera in Reelection Bid


James touts incumbent State Senator's strong record as a defender of Bronx families, advocate for greater transparency in Albany, and supporter of progressive issues
 
   State Senator Gustavo Rivera continues to consolidate his support among New York's leaders in progressive politics with the endorsement today from New York City Public Advocate Letitia James. The Public Advocate's support draws a clear contrast between the incumbent Senator and his controversy-plagued, formerly-Republican opponent in the September 13th Democratic primary for the Bronx's 33rd Senate District. 
 
"Gustavo Rivera is a true progressive in Albany, fighting for the needs and rights of working families. As the New York City Public Advocate, it is critical to have a partner in Albany fighting for tenants' rights, access to quality healthcare, and safer streets. I am proud to support Gustavo Rivera, and look forward to continuing our strong partnership on behalf of all New Yorkers,"said New York City Public Advocate Letitia James.  
 
"I am honored to have the endorsement of our Public Advocate Letitia James," said State Senator Gustavo Rivera. "I share the Public Advocate's commitment to working families in the fight for fair and affordable housing, ensuring a living wage for all workers, and the many other issues affecting the Bronx. With her support, I look forward to continuing our work of making New York a safer, more equal place for all."

A Living Memorial: Dedicated to All Victims of September 11, 2001


On Behalf of the Foundation for the Revival of Classical Culture, we present :
MOZART REQUIEM
A Living Memorial: Dedicated to All Victims of September 11, 2001 and Its Aftermath
RESERVE TICKETS

Bronx HIRE/Jewish Board of Family & Children Services Interview Fair


Outdoor Movie THIS Saturday Night - Inside Out - Saturday, Sept. 10 in Vinmont Park


Join Us for a Movie in Vinmont Park (Mosholu & 255th Street)
Saturday, September 10th
Porto Potties will be available!


Friends of Van Cortlandt Park Part of National Campaign from Michelob ULTRA and the American Hiking Society to restore trails this fall


A portion of every Michelob ULTRA purchase this fall will help restore 12 trails, including the John Muir Trail in Van Cortlandt Park, throughout the US and everyone can help decide how the funds are distributed.
 
Just in time for the fall foliage, Michelob ULTRA is introducing an initiative to help restore running, cycling and hiking trails which are essential to Michelob ULTRA drinkers’ pursuit of an active life.  From September 4th through November 26thMichelob ULTRA will be donating a portion of every purchase up to $200,000 to the restoration of 12 trails across the United States, including our very own John Muir Trail in Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx, NY.
 
Partnering with the American Hiking Sociery for the second straight year, Michelob ULTRA has expanded the program from two trails in 2015 to a total of 12 trails this year.  Each of the 12 participating trails will received $5,000, with Michelob ULTRA drinkers helping to decide which trails receive the remaining funds by visitingmichelobULTRA.com/theextramile and voting for their hometown.
 
IMG_0780
“We are honored to have been selected for this exciting opportunity to receive not only funding needed for the ongoing maintenance of the John Muir Trail in our Park,” said Christina Taylor, Executive Director of the Friends of Van Cortlandt Park, “but also for the opportunity to promote the various hiking opportunities in Van Cortlandt Park.  We know that “VCP is Where NYC Hikes” and hope this will encourage more people to explore our 20 plus miles of trails.”
 
The 12 participating trails span from coast to coast with the John Muir Trail in Van Cortlandt Park as the only trail in the Northeast.  The John Muir Trail, 1.5 miles, was established in 1997 with the help of the Friends of Van Cortlandt Park summer interns, is the park’s only east-west path.
 
To support the Go the Extra Mile Fund, purchase any package of Michelob ULTRA.  Everyone can cast a vote for their favorite trail by visitingmichelobULTRA.com/theextramile – no purchase necessary to vote.
 
For more information on the John Muir Trail, hiking in Van Cortlandt Park and upcoming opportunities to go on a hike with the Friends of Van Cortlandt Park visit


EDITOR'S NOTE:
We would hope that this promotion does not lead to underage drinking or overindulgence in binge drinking to earn a few pennies from this companies beer sales. There must be better ways to get the much needed monies, right elected officials? 

Monday, September 5, 2016

News From Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman


AG banner_NEW

 

Victory Over Citizens United


This week in the Citizens United v. Schneiderman case, the judge dismissed Citizens United's challenge to the Attorney General's longstanding donor disclosure rules. Under the Court's ruling, Citizens United must finally disclose its biggest donors to the Attorney General's Office.

Attorney General Schneiderman issued the following statement in response:
"Today’s decision is a victory for common sense oversight of New York’s vast nonprofit sector. New Yorkers deserve to know their donations are protected against fraud and abuse, and today the court protected that right by dismissing each and every one of Citizen United’s claims."

Protecting Animals And Families From Exploitation

Attorney General Schneiderman ordered former Scottsville Veterinary Adoptions, Inc. to distribute its assets to the Humane Society and Lollypop Farm after an investigation by the AG's office found that the group had been selling dying pets to unsuspecting New Yorkers. As a result of the agreement, the adoption center will no longer be permitted to operate as a non-profit and will be subject to inspection in order to ensure compliance with the New York Pet Lemon Law. 

Have a question, comment, or complaint? Click here. You can also learn more about the various initiatives of the Attorney General's office by visiting our website at ag.ny.gov. You can also call our General Hotline: 800-771-7755


THREE sHOOTINGS ASSOCIATED WITH J'OUVERT THIS MORNING



  Mayor Bill de Blasio: Every year, hundreds and hundreds of thousands of people come out to participate in this celebration of Caribbean culture. Typically, at J'Ouvert almost a quarter of a million people, including last night at the parade – often over a million people. The vast, vast majority celebrate peacefully. They represent their culture proudly. And it's a moment where every year, people look forward to celebrating their heritage as all New Yorkers do for their own heritages. And we are very clear about honoring and uplifting that celebration of heritage. But at the same time, our hearts are heavy today. We never accept violence in our midst. Last night, there was violence that is fundamentally unacceptable that we will continue to address more forcefully. Last night, a very few people violated that spirit of pride and celebration and caused pain for so many others. 

  Chief of Brooklyn Detectives Patrick Conry, NYPD: In the early morning hours associated with J'Ouvert, we had three shooting incidents involving four individuals who were shot. Two of those individuals are deceased. I will give you a little bit of a summary of each of the three incidents.

Approximately 03:45 hours at Empire in Flatbush, we had two individuals shot – a female 72-year-old who was shot and it's not likely, and a male 18-year-old who is deceased. We believe at this point, one if not both of those individuals are unintended targets. We did recover some shell casings that leads us to believe there was a crossfire. 

Second incident happens at 4:15 am – Franklin and Empire, which is about a block away. We have a female, 22 years old, shot in the head. She's also deceased. We believe she was an unintended target at this time, absent any additional information. 

Third incident happened at 6:45 amClasson and Rogers – a couple of blocks off the parade route, but within the zone. We had a male, 20-year-old, shot in the leg. Two groups crossing paths had a verbal dispute which turned physical. Apparently, a male stepped out from the crowd – fired one round from a 9 millimeter firearm, striking him. He's not likely. 

So to recap – three shooting incidents – four people shot; two deceased. 

Saturday, September 3, 2016

MAYOR DE BLASIO URGES NEW YORKERS TO PREPARE FOR EFFECTS OF HERMINE – HIGH WINDS, COASTAL FLOODING, STRONG RIP CURRENTS AND RAIN


   Mayor Bill De Blasio today urged New Yorkers to prepare for potential impacts of Hermine, now considered a Post-Tropical Cyclone. While it is considered “Post-Tropical,” Hermine remains a powerful storm with significant hazards. The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Warning for the New York City area in effect from 11AM today. A tropical storm warning is issued 36 hours in advance of the anticipated onset of tropical-storm-force winds, which include sustained wind speeds of 39mph to 74mph. A Storm Surge Watch has also been issued for New York City coastal areas until further notice. Hermine is forecast to track off the DELMARVA coast this weekend and gradually intensify Sunday into Monday as it slowly tracks up to the northeast. The National Weather Service is currently forecasting sustained winds of 35-45 mph with potential for gusts up to 60 mph for the NYC area beginning as early as Sunday and extending possibly through Tuesday evening.

“This storm is expected to bring very strong winds to NYC over the next few days,” said Mayor de Blasio. “Tropical-storm-force winds can lead to power outages and create dangerous conditions, so make sure you secure loose objects like garbage cans and patio umbrellas and take precautions this weekend.”

STORM-RELATED UPDATES:

SI Ferry:

Beginning Sunday evening and through Tuesday morning, passengers should anticipate weather-related delays and/or cancellations

Bridges: 

When winds reach tropical storm levels, NYC area bridges may implement speed and vehicle restrictionsNew Yorkers should expect potential restrictions Sunday evening through Tuesday.

NYC Beaches:

Due to life-threatening rip tides, NYC beaches are closed to swimming, surfing, and bathing on Sunday, September 4, 2016.

New Yorkers should take actions ahead of the storm to prepare for high winds, minor-to-moderate coastal flooding, rain, life-threatening rip tides, and high surf.

PREPARE FOR HIGH WINDS

High winds can bring down trees and power lines and can turn unsecured objects into dangerous projectiles. To protect against the hazard of high winds, New Yorkers should:
·         Check the area immediately surrounding your home for unsecured objects or potentially dangerous conditions. Tree limbs, garbage cans, yard debris, or other materials that can be moved by the wind are potential projectiles aimed at your home or parked vehicle.
·         Bring inside loose, lightweight objects such as lawn furniture, potted plants, garbage cans, garden tools and toys.
·         Anchor objects that would be unsafe outside, such as gas grills or propane tanks.
·         Close up and secure patio umbrellas.
·         Secure retractable awnings.
·         Remove aerial antennas and satellite television dishes.
·         Use caution when walking or driving high profile vehicles during periods of high winds .
·         Stand clear of roadways or train tracks, as a gust may blow you toward an oncoming vehicle.
·         Use handrails where available.
·         Avoid elevated areas such as roofs, as wind speeds may be higher above ground level.
·         If you are driving during periods of high winds:
·         Keep both hands on the wheel and slow down.
·         Watch for objects blowing across the roadway and into your path.
·         Keep a safe distance from cars in adjacent lanes, as strong gusts could push a car outside its lane of travel.
·         Take extra care in a high-profile vehicle such as trucks, vans and SUVs, as these vehicles are more prone to being pushed or flipped by high wind gusts.
·         New Yorkers are encouraged to call 911 to report emergencies at construction sites or buildings. New Yorkers who suspect a building or property has been structurally compromised should call 911.

Additional wind guidance from the NYC Buildings Department:

·         All cranes were ordered to cease operations in the City by 3pm on Saturday, September 3. Cranes should be safely stored as required by manufacturer guidelines.
·         All builders, contractors, crane operators, and property owners should secure their construction sites, buildings, and equipment.
·         The Department of Buildings will be performing random spot-check inspections of construction sites around the City. If sites are not secured, the Department will take immediate enforcement action -- issuing violations and Stop Work Orders, where necessary.
·         Property owners must consider the safety of their buildings and construction sites, including cranes, suspended and supported scaffolding, hoists and any other building appurtenances that may come loose from exposure to high winds. Structures that have been subject to deferred maintenance or are in delicate condition could be at greater risk. The Department suggests consulting a professional to advise how to secure construction sites and buildings.
·         Buildings Bulletin2010-019 outlines the requirements for vertical netting, debris netting and material-fall protection devices at buildings and construction sites.

PREPARE FOR FLOODING

If you live in a flood-susceptible area:
·         Keep sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and lumber, on hand to help protect your home.
·         Make an itemized list of personal property, including furnishings, clothing, and valuables. 
·         Move valuable items from basements to upper floors. (Basements are vulnerable to flooding.)
·         Know your flood risk. To learn more about coastal flood risk in New York City, visit the FEMA Region II Coastal Analysis and Mapping website for flood hazard information at http://www.region2coastal.com/. 
·         Consider getting flood insurance. Protection against loss due to floods is not covered under a homeowner's policy. Contact your property/casualty agent or broker about eligibility for flood insurance. For more information, visit the National Flood Insurance Program online at www.floodsmart.gov.

PREPARE FOR POWER OUTAGES

·         Build or restock your emergency supply kit, including a flashlight, batteries, cash, and first aid supplies.
·         Charge cell phones and any battery-powered devices.
·         Turn your refrigerator and freezer to a colder setting. If you lose power, items that need refrigeration will stay cooler for longer.
·         Check on friends, relatives, and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities, access and functional needs, or health conditions. Help them to prepare if needed.

PREPARE AN EMERGENCY PLAN:

·         Develop a plan with your household members that outlines what to do during an emergency, including a coastal storm. Use Ready New York: My Emergency Plan at NYC.gov/myemergencyplan.
·         If you have a disability, access or functional need, make sure your plan addresses how your needs may affect your ability to evacuate, shelter in place, or communicate with emergency workers. Arrange help from family, friends, or service providers if you will need assistance.
·         Know your zone. Areas of the city subject to storm surge flooding are divided into six evacuation zones (1 through 6) based on risk of storm surge flooding. Use the Hurricane Evacuation Zone Finder or call 311(212-639-9675 for Video Relay Service, or TTY:212-504-4115) to find out if your address is located in an evacuation zone.
·         Prepare a Go Bag that you can grab in case you need to leave your home in a hurry. For more information about what to pack in a Go Bag, visithttp://www1.nyc.gov/site/em/ready/gather-supplies.page.
·         Stay informed by signing up for Notify NYC to receive emergency notifications and updates via email, phone, SMS /text, or Twitter. Notify NYC messages are also available in American Sign Language (ASL). VisitNYC.gov/NotifyNYC or call 311 to sign up.

CITY ACTIONS TO PREPARE FOR THE STORM

·         NYC Emergency Management remains in constant communication with the National Hurricane Center and the National Weather Service to track and monitor the storm.
·         A National Weather Service meteorologist is embedded in NYC Emergency Management’s Watch Command to provide real-time updates on the storm’s track and potential impacts.
·         The City’s Situation Room has been activated, and NYC Emergency Management is coordinating daily interagency conference calls to facilitate preparations with city and state agencies and private partners.
·         The City’s Flash Flood Emergency Plan has been activated to help mitigate potential flash flooding and ensure a quick, effective, and coordinated response to any flash flood events that do occur. NYC Emergency Management works closely with NYPD, FDNY, Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Sanitation, Department of Transportation, Department of Parks and Recreation, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to mitigate the impact of flash floods. New Yorkers are encouraged to report clogged catch basins and areas of standing water to 3-1-1.
·         Additionally, the City's Downed Tree Task Force has been placed on stand-by. This multi-agency task force is responsible for coordinating the response to a large downed tree event.
·         Over the past 36 hours, the NYC Mayor's Office of Housing Recovery Operations, DDC, and the Build It Back program sent safety teams, engineers and builders to survey all homes in construction to implement additional safe guards ahead of the storm. The Housing Recovery Office will continue to monitor all work sites throughout the storm event and implement whatever additional safeguards need to be put in place.