NFL BANS PLAYERS FROM KNEELING IN PROTEST

Council Member Jumaane D. Williams, released the following statement after the NFL announced that players will no longer be permitted to kneel in protest during the playing of the national anthem.

  "Wednesday, the NFL announced their intention to smother protest and strangle activism. By forcing players to stand for the national anthem while on the field, and relegating those who chose to protest during the anthem to the locker room, they are effectively creating an other, hiding dissenting voices from the public eye to maintain their own corporate interest and public image."

"With this action, the NFL has made its intentions clear and revealed the character of the organization. They have given in to hateful voices who responded to peaceful protest with vitriol and misinformation. At best they ignore the the crucial issues of police misconduct and racial inequity for which players engaged in protest, at worst they endorse them. This is unsurprising from an organization that routinely seeks to bury anything that they feel is bad for business, and views its players as commodities rather than individuals."

"I stand with Colin Kaepernick, and with all players who choose to take a knee. In exercising his right to free speech and non-violent protest, Kaepernick ignited a movement and has now joined Nelson Mandela and other heroes in receiving Amnesty International's Ambassador of Conscience Award. This movement extends far beyond Kaepernick himself and forces the country to acknowledge and address the daily injustices of police misconduct and racial bias. It cannot be ignored that the NFL's ruling was established mere hours before the nation saw video of another black athlete, Sterling Brown, inexplicably abused and attacked at the hands of Milwaukee police."

"Such instances are pervasive and disturbing, whether for a well known athlete or the many more with less prominent profiles and less national outrage. Athletes who choose to kneel perform the vital duty of ensuring that these systemic injustices do not fade from the public consciousness. Disruption is essential to protest, and neither the actions of player protest nor the issues for which they kneel can be hidden away."

EDITOR'S NOTE:

We disagree with Councilman Williams on the issue, and say that since Mr. Kaepernick is an employee of the NFL, he must adhere to company policy unless it is illegal. 

New York City and the City Council have certain rules to follow. Does Councilman Williams follow every single rule, or does he kneel in the council chambers when a vote is taken?

We would challenge Councilman Williams to kneel every time a vote is taken in the council, and see what course is taken by the speaker or other council members. Yes let's see how many other council members would kneel with Councilman Williams during a council vote. 

Councilman Williams has made history in his political career, and it is a novel idea to stand with Mr. Kaepernick, but put your political career where your mouth is Councilman Williams kneel down in the council chamber every time a vote is to be taken.

Comptroller Stringer Statement on MTA Subway “Fast Forward” Plan

 “Today’s Fast Forward Plan is a big step in the right direction, but now it’s up to the MTA to make sure it’s implementation is not slow-walked. New Yorkers have waited long enough for trains and buses to run on time, and any more delay will only serve to further hurt straphangers and further drag down our economy.

“As my office has documented, the decades-long deterioration of our subways exerts an economic toll on our city every single day, draining the city of up to $400 million dollars in lost productivity and wages per year. It also exerts a painful human toll, causing New Yorkers to miss doctor’s appointments and job interviews, to miss out on child care options, and to lose wages or even their jobs.

“I am greatly encouraged that President Byford has addressed so many of the recommendations we have advocated for in the Comptroller’s Office – from increasing off-peak service to help the growing legions of New Yorkers who work outside of the 9-to-5 day, to redesigning the bus network in all five boroughs to help working people get where they need to go, to increasing dedicated bus lanes and making more subways stations accessible to the elderly and disabled.

“It’s a great start, but this plan is only as good as its funding, and we are ready to see action.”

To read Comptroller Stringer’s report from last summer, The Human Cost of Delays, click here.

To read Comptroller Stringer’s report on the economic cost of delays, click here.

To read Comptroller Stringers report on the MTA’s failure to keep pace with the growth in off-peak ridership, click here.

Comptroller Stringer Releases Agency Watch List Report: Department of Education

To ensure spending gets results, Stringer calls for increased transparency at DOE

Agency Watch List report to be released quarterly on City agencies that raise the most budgetary concerns

   As the New York City Council Committees on Education and Finance hold a hearing on the Executive Budget for Fiscal Year 2019, Comptroller Stringer released the first “Agency Watch List” report on the City’s spending at the Department of Education (DOE), calling for greater transparency from the agency on its spending and results.

The Comptroller’s report finds that while agency spending has risen rapidly in the last few years, the availability of data to monitor progress in achieving the goals set out by the Administration, and oversight of the agency’s several billion dollar procurement budget – which Comptroller Stringer has audited for waste and mismanagement – are insufficient for real accountability.

Such a massive agency, which educates over 1 million New York City children and will spend more than $25 billion this year, requires a particular level of oversight and accountability to ensure that resources are being deployed effectively and efficiently.

“The investments we make in education have long lasting impacts not just on our children – but on our city. That’s why we have a responsibility to ensure efficiency with every dollar. This is money that should be going to kids in the classroom, and not the bureaucracy at Tweed,” said New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer. “When it comes to our kids, every penny counts. But the DOE has a history of losing track of its spending, at the expense of our children. That’s why we’ve audited DOE extensively and are paying close attention to the agency’s budget with our Agency Watch List. There is nothing more important than making sure we keep our promises to our children, and that means making sure that spending gets results and programs are being run efficiently and effectively. All students deserve a strong education, so we’re speaking out and paying close attention to make sure they’re getting the opportunity they deserve.”

The Agency Watch List, first announced in the Comptroller’s Preliminary Budget Presentation, spotlights City agencies – the Department of Correction (DOC), Department of Education (DOE), and Department of Homeless Services (DHS) – that raise the most budgetary concerns due to rapidly increased spending without sufficient transparency around results. Reports, to be released on each department quarterly, will review trends and recommend indicators that should be reported and monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of agency spending in achieving the Administration’s stated goals.

Lack of Procurement Oversight Remains a Risk for Waste

• The Department of Education is budgeted to spend $9.5 billion on non-personnel services (known as OTPS) in FY 2018, including a contractual services budget of $6.95 billion which itself is projected to rise to $7.16 billion in FY 2019;
• Although the DOE’s OTPS spending constitutes fully one-quarter of the total citywide OTPS budget, and its contractual services budget constitutes 44% of the entire City Contract Budget, these expenditures are not included in the annual Agency Procurement Indicators report published by the Mayor’s Office of Contract Services (MOCS); and
• This is of particular concern for waste, as numerous audits and analyses by the Comptroller’s Office have documented deficiencies in management and accountability in DOE’s procurement practices, including the overuse of non-competitive and emergency procurement methods, retroactively evaluated contracts, and lack of review systems for vendors.

Renewal Schools Show Moderate Improvement but Actual Spending Not Reported

• Reporting on spending and outcomes at Renewal Schools as a group is not provided, inhibiting adequate oversight and evaluation;
• Renewal schools have demonstrated moderate progress among some important and reported indicators such as declining chronic absenteeism and improved graduation rates, although about two-thirds of high schools in the program still failed to reach their targeted graduation rates;
• However, students at most Renewal Schools still struggled to perform up to standards on State reading and math exams in 2017, as only 15.9 percent and 9.4 percent of Renewal School students in grades 3 through 8 passed the 2017 reading and math exams respectively, in comparison to Citywide average rates of 40.6 percent in reading and 37.8 percent in math.

Investment in Other Important New Programs Expands, But Reporting on Progress is Not Systematically Reported

DOE projected spending $372 million in FY 2019 on programs and initiatives to improve student outcomes. These investments are crucial in helping to level the playing field for all students, but must be monitored to ensure the spending is going to benefit the students as promised. To determine whether these investments are working for students, the DOE should provide clear reporting on the programs’ progress and that of the students who participate in them.

• The Equity and Excellence initiatives were budgeted for $149 million in spending in FY 2018, rising to $221 million in FY 2019;
• Progress in the Equity and Excellence initiatives, such as Universal 2nd Grade Literacy, AP for all, and Algebra for all, are not routinely reported;
• A series of other initiatives, including expanded Career and Technical Education (CTE), summer programming, mental health access and guidance counselors, were budgeted for $136 million this year, rising to $151 million in FY 2019; and
• Actual spending and results for these initiatives should be reported separately by DOE.

Key Indicators Currently Not Reported

A number of key indicators regarding the Department of Education spending on critical programs are not currently publicly reported. As part of the Agency Watch List report, the Comptroller’s Office is calling on the Administration to immediately make these statistics publicly available, and incorporate them into the Mayor’s Management Report.

• Number of active Renewal Schools and spending;
• Measure of 2nd grade literacy;
• Percentage of students with access to AP classes;
• Percentage of students with algebra instruction;
• Number of graduates enrolling in college.

To read the Comptroller’s full report, click here.

BRONX MAN INDICTED ON 146 COUNTS FOR SELLING 18 FIREARMS

Defendant Sold Weapons to Undercover Officer; Sales Recorded on Video 

  Bronx District Attorney Darcel D. Clark today announced that a Bronx man has been indicted on 146 counts involving a gun dealing operation that sold dozens of firearms, including a semi-automatic rifle, to an undercover cop in the Bronx. 

 District Attorney Clark said, “A months-long investigation uncovered the defendant’s alleged actions, which attempted to contribute to the illegal guns on the streets of the Bronx. Each gun intercepted is a life saved and we will vigorously prosecute anyone who promotes danger in our community.” 

 District Attorney Clark said the defendant, Jorge Pichardo, 29, of East Clarke Place, was indicted on 146 various counts, with the top charge of first-degree Criminal Sale of a Firearm. He was also indicted on: three counts of second-degree Criminal Sale of a Firearm; 15 counts of second-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon; 17 counts each of Criminal Possession of a Firearm and fourth-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon; 18 counts of third-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon; 16 counts of Disposition of Ammunition; 40 counts of third-degree Criminal Sale of a Firearm; four counts of Attempted Criminal Sale of a Firearm in the third-degree; seven counts of third-degree Criminal Possession of a Weapon; two counts of seventh-degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance, and one count each of Unlawful Possession of a Loaded Rifle or Shotgun; third, fourth and fifth-degree Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance; Resisting Arrest and second-degree Obstructing Governmental Administration.

 The defendant was arraigned today before Bronx Supreme Court Justice William Mogulescu and is due back in court on May 29th, 2018. If convicted of the top charge, he faces up to 25 years in prison with possible consecutive sentences for additional charges.

 According to the investigation, from July 5, 2017 to January 16, 2018, the defendant allegedly sold eighteen firearms, sixteen of which were operable, to an undercover officer during a long-term investigation into gun violence. One of the weapons sold is a Norinco SKS semi-automatic rifle.

 He was arrested on January 17, 2018 after being found with over eight grams of cocaine.

 District Attorney Clark thanked NYPD Detectives Christopher Shaughnessy and Douglas Lansing, formerly of the NYPD Firearms Investigation Unit, and currently assigned to the NYPD-DEA Drug Enforcement Task Force.

BRONX DISTRICT ATTORNEY DARCEL D. CLARK STATEMENT ON PROSECUTION OF PUBLIC USE OF MARIJUANA

 “While smoking marijuana in public remains a quality of life concern and a nuisance to many of our citizens, an arrest and prosecution for it can lead to a criminal record affecting employment, school and housing, and have life-long consequences. People of color in the Bronx are arrested and processed in the system in disproportionate numbers, and I cannot turn a blind eye to this unfairness. I am urging the NYPD to issue criminal court (“C”) summonses during stops for public use and possession of marijuana to address the public safety and community concerns. This will spare all Bronxites from undergoing arrest for these offenses, and allow the NYPD and the Bronx District Attorney’s Office to investigate and prosecute violent crimes, which are a threat to public safety. We will continue to work with the Mayor and Police Commissioner on this policy.”

News From Councilman Andy King

NYC Council Member Andy King to Host NYCHA “Constituent Services Night” on Thursday, May 31

  In order to better serve his constituents beyond the hours of 9-5, New York City Council Member Andy King and his staff will be hosting “Constituent Services Night” in a different NYCHA housing development in the 12th Council District.

A Constituent Service Night Event will be held on Thursday, May 31, 5:00 -7:00 p.m. at Eastchester Gardens, 1140/42 Burke Ave., Bronx. Services will include resources and solutions for housing, food stamps, immigration status and basic services. Representatives from Home Base/Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New York and Urban Justice Center will be in attendance to address constituents’ needs as well as provide information and resources.

There are five NYCHA housing developments in the 12th District: Gun Hill Houses, Baychester Houses, Boston Secor, Eastchester Gardens and Edenwald.

NYCHA residents can preschedule an appointment by calling the Office of Council Member Andy King at (718) 684-5509.

Rain Barrel Giveaway Set for Saturday, August 4

  Back by popular demand, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and Council Member Andy King will hold a rain barrel giveaway on the Evander Childs High School football field, 800 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx, on Saturday, August 4^th ,  during the 6^th annual 12th District Community Engagement Day/ Fun In the Son Parade & Concert.

A hundred rain barrels will be distributed to local residents at 10 a.m. However, residents must call and reserve their barrel --  one per person per household.

“This somewhat, old-fashion technique is very effective for homeowners who want to ensure that their plants don't suffer in summer heat and for business owners looking to manage storm water runoff from rooftops. Not only will harvesting rainwater safeguard plants and keep the sewer pipes from overflowing but it’ll help many save on their water bill. You can’t beat that!” said Council Member Andy King, 12th CD.

The 60-gallon rain barrels are easy to install and connect directly to a property owner's downspout to capture and store the storm water that falls on the rooftop. The water collected in the rain barrel can then be used to water lawns and gardens, or for other outdoor chores.

Rain barrels should only be used for non-potable purposes, such as gardening, and must be disconnected from the downspout during the winter months to avoid freezing.

For more information or to reserve a rain barrel, phone King's office at 718-684-5509. 

NYC Council Member Andy King to host free mobile legal help center

   New York City Council Member Andy King is hosting a free civil legal services mobile van on Saturday, August 4, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the annual 12^th Council District, Fun In the Son Community Engagement Day event outside the Evander Childs Football Field, 800 East Gun Hill Road, Bronx.

The mobile legal help center is a partnership between the New York Legal Assistance Group and the New York State Court's Access to Justice Program and provides free civil legal assistance to New Yorkers in need.

Lawyers will be on hand to provide assistance in various areas, including: domestic violence/family law; orders of protection/emergency orders of protections; divorces; custody/visitation; child/spousal support, and immigration.

The van provides on-site, high-level technology allowing it to function as a full-service office. Private meeting rooms inside the van are available.

Space is limited and appointments are required. To set up an appointment, phone King’s office at 718-684-5509.

Cynthia Nixon Proves She Can't Be Scared Into Backing Down

On Long Island, Cynthia says New York Democrats deserve to have at least one actual Democrat running for governor at their state convention

  Democratic candidate for governor Cynthia Nixon visited Long Island today to speak directly with state committee members, proving she can’t be scared out of the room.

“Cuomo’s folks use every acting pun they can find to paint Cynthia as unqualified but she went into the lion’s den today and more than held her own.” said spokesperson Lauren Hitt. “She spoke with press for 20 minutes at the Hempstead station and did interviews at multiple points throughout the convention. She walked into many pro-Cuomo rooms and introduced herself to delegates and talked about real issues. Cuomo, on the other hand, was completely ham handed. Everyone expected it to be the Cuomo show but making even the opening prayer be about you!? Come on.”

Cynthia started the morning at an LIRR stop, before speaking to the Progressive Caucus. She was later nominated by Janice Warner and Zakiyah Ansari, as well as Councilman Carlos Menchaca.

Alliance for Quality Education Advocacy Director Zakiyah Ansari opened the nomination: “Governor Cuomo says we spend more money than we ever have before on education. That is a meaningless statistic because I spend more on a gallon of milk than I ever did before. The reality is that under Andrew Cuomo when you factor in inflation school aid has only increased by 1.2% per year over the past 8 years.  No wonder we have so many schools all over the state with 26, 30 or even 35 students in a classroom. No wonder we have school counsellors serving as many as 700 students. No wonder some schools offer dozens of college level courses while many of our children are fortunate to have a few.”

“I’ve known Cynthia Nixon for over a decade,” she continued. “Everyone knows Cynthia is a champion for our public schools and I can tell you why. She fights for our public schools because she’s a mother who not only cares for her children’s education but about the children of NYS.”

Janice Warner, Cynthia’s high school teacher followed to second the nomination saying, “I’ve known Cynthia for 36 years. And so much hasn’t changed. She’s still a fine person. She’s thoughtful, focused, and well-researched. And unfortunately for Governor Cuomo, she’s not easily intimidated.”

Lastly, NYC Council Member Carlos Menchaca closed: “I believe in Cynthia Nixon. I believe her when she says she will work with all of us to stand up and fight Washington and truly protect all New Yorkers: Drivers Licenses for All, the Dream Act, campaign finance reform, the decriminalization of Marijuana and speaking of weed, finally remove IDC from existence.

It’s not enough to just be better than Trump. Cynthia offers a new vision of how things COULD be: transparent and collaborative. If we want to see our changes, we will need to change the leadership at the very top, to allow us to grow from the bottom up.”