NYS OASAS Announces Launch of New Campaign to Raise Awareness of Dangers of Excessive Alcohol Use During Pandemic

 

Statewide Radio Ads Will Notify People of the Warning Signs of Excessive Drinking, and Where to go to Find Help for Addiction

 The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) today announced the launch of a new Alcohol Awareness campaign to caution people of the warning signs of excessive alcohol use, and where to go to get help. In addition to warning signs, the campaign will also help offer alternatives to using alcohol for stress management, at a time when the danger of excessive alcohol use is increased as a result of the pandemic.

“Now more than ever, it is important to raise awareness about the harmful effects of alcohol and promote healthy ways to deal with anxiety and stress,” said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, Co-Chair of the NYS Heroin and Opioid Task Force. “We want to make sure individuals and families have the information and resources they need to cope with addiction and other struggles during the pandemic. The launch of this new campaign will highlight the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption, the warning signs and ways to manage stress. This is part of our ongoing efforts to provide New Yorkers with the services and support they need to address mental health and substance abuse and encourage healthy and safe lifestyles.”

“During this difficult time, it is important that people recognize the dangers of increased alcohol consumption,” OASAS Commissioner Arlene González-Sánchez said. “With this campaign we are reminding people of the negative consequences they could face by not using alcohol responsibly, and are also helping direct them to the services they need to manage any addiction issues.”

As New York State continues to address the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, excessive alcohol use may be especially risky to both mental and physical health. It can lead to or worsen existing depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Alcohol also may decrease immune function, which can increase susceptibility to illness.

The campaign consists of radio ads that will air statewide in both English and Spanish. Individuals will be encouraged to visit the OASAS webpage for information about prevention, treatment and recovery services, and will also be directed to the NYS HOPEline, where they can receive help for themselves or someone else. Campaign materials are located on the public awareness section of the OASAS website.

“It is truly important that New York residents understand all of the risks connected to excessive alcohol consumption, especially now when many are experiencing pandemic-related stress and anxieties,” said Sen. Pete Harckham, chair of the Senate Committee on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. “I appreciate this new effort being made by OASAS to publicize the many resources, services and programs available for people looking to safeguard their health in this regard.”

New Yorkers struggling with an addiction, or whose loved ones are struggling, can find help and hope by calling the state’s toll-free, 24-hour, 7-day-a-week HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY (1-877-846-7369) or by texting HOPENY (Short Code 467369). 

Available addiction treatment including crisis/detox, inpatient, community residence, or outpatient care can be found using the NYS OASAS Treatment Availability Dashboard at FindAddictionTreatment.ny.gov or through the NYS OASAS website.

If you, or a loved one, have experienced insurance obstacles related to treatment or need help filing an appeal for a denied claim, contact the CHAMP helpline by phone at 888-614-5400 or email at ombuds@oasas.ny.gov

NYPD Announces New Leadership for Patrol, Transit, Transportation and School Safety

 

Police Commissioner Dermot Shea today announced the appointment of six NYPD commanders to new leadership positions within the Department’s executive team. The promotions build on the continued transformation of leadership for areas integral to the agency’s overall operations and mission.

“I am privileged to elevate each of these distinguished longtime NYPD leaders,” said Police Commissioner Dermot Shea. “Each of these commanders has shown exceptional vision in helping to steer the Department through the advancements of the last several years and each uniquely reflects the values and concerns of the citizens we serve.

Chief Juanita Holmes has been appointed as Chief of Patrol. In her new position, Chief Holmes will use her understanding of the way violence can afflict city neighborhoods she has served to reduce that violence and keep people safe. Chief Holmes, the highest ranking African American female officer in New York City Police Department history, will continue working to fulfill Commissioner Shea’s vision for the fairest and most effective policing possible in the city.

Chief Edward Delatorre has been appointed as Chief of Labor Relations, a critical assignment as the Police Department continues its work in reforming policing to best serve New Yorkers amid the continuing strain of budgetary and personnel challenges.

Assistant Chief Kim Royster has been appointed to lead in the important arena of transportation as Chief of Transportation.

Assistant Chief Kathleen O’Reilly has been appointed as Chief of Transit. Assistant Chief O’Reilly has, until this time, served Borough Commander of Manhattan North.

Deputy Chief Philip Rivera has been appointed Borough Commander of Manhattan North where he most recently served as Executive Officer.

Inspector Olufunmilola Obe has been appointed as Commander of the School Safety Division.

About Our Leadership

CHIEF OF PATROL

Juanita N. Holmes

Having served most recently as Chief of Collaborative Policing, Chief Holmes brings an acute insight into what city residents want and need from the police and has reinforced policing’s basic mission of keeping people safe while advancing the kind of sweeping reforms the NYPD has instituted over the last nearly seven years that have served as a beacon for the profession. Chief Juanita N. Holmes joined the New York City Police Department in July 1987, and began her career on patrol in the 101 Precinct. She was promoted to Sergeant in December 1995; Lieutenant in May 2002; Captain in June 2007; Deputy Inspector in August 2009; Inspector in January 2012; Deputy Chief in September 2014; and Assistant Chief in September 2016. She has served in the 81, 100, 101, 103, 111, and 113 Precincts, as well as Police Service Areas 2 and 8, the Patrol Borough Bronx Investigations Unit, Housing Borough Bronx/Queens, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Training, the Domestic Violence Unit, and the School Safety Division. On September 16, 2016, Chief Holmes became the first African American woman to serve as Borough Commander when she was promoted to Assistant Chief. She most recently served as the Chief of Collaborative Policing. Prior to that she served as Commanding Officer of the School Safety Division. She has also commanded the Domestic Violence Unit, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Training, Police Service Area 2 and the 81 Precinct. She served as the Executive Officer of the 100 and 103 Precincts. Chief Holmes holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from St. Joseph’s College, and is a graduate of the Police Management Institute. She retired in December 2018 to join the private sector as Global Head of Corporate Security at BNY Mellon. She rejoined the Department in December 2019.

CHIEF OF LABOR RELATIONS

Edward Delatorre

Chief of Labor Relations Edward Delatorre joined the New York City Police Department in November 1979, and began his career on patrol in the 42 Precinct. He also served in the 41, 43, 45, 46, 47, 49 and 50 Precincts, as well as the Bronx Task Force, the Tactical Patrol Unit, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Community Affairs, Patrol Borough Queens North, Patrol Borough Bronx, Patrol Borough Manhattan North, Patrol Borough Staten Island, the Patrol Services Bureau, and the Police Academy. He was promoted to Sergeant in October 1984; Lieutenant in November 1989; Captain in January 1992; Deputy Inspector in May 1994; Inspector in August 1995; Deputy Chief in March 2000; Assistant Chief in July 2006; and Chief of Transit in January 2018. Prior to serving as Chief of Transit, Chief Delatorre served as Commanding Officer of Patrol Borough Staten Island, the 41, 42 and 43 Precincts, and the Police Academy. He also served as Executive Officer to the Chief of Department, the Chief of Patrol, the Chief of Housing, the Chief of Community Affairs, Patrol Borough Bronx, Patrol Borough Manhattan North and the 47 and 50 Precincts. Chief Delatorre holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Lehman College, and is a 1994 graduate of the Police Management Institute at Columbia University.

CHIEF OF TRANSPORTATION

Kim Y. Royster

Assistant Chief Kim Y. Royster began her career with the New York City Police Department in January 1985 as a Police Administrative Aide. She was sworn in as a Police Officer in July 1987, and was assigned to the 13 Precinct. She was promoted to Detective in March 1992; Sergeant in October 1997; Sergeant Special Assignment in December 2001; Lieutenant in April 2002; Captain in August 2006; Deputy Inspector in August 2009; Inspector in March 2012; Deputy Chief in October 2013; and Assistant Chief in August 2015. She has served in the Police Academy, the 5 and 13 Precincts, the 7 Precinct Detective Squad, Patrol Borough Manhattan South, the Office of Management Analysis and Planning, Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Public Information (DCPI), Detective Borough Manhattan, Detective Borough Brooklyn, the Intelligence Division, the Internal Affairs Bureau and the Criminal Justice Bureau. Assistant Chief Royster most recently served as Executive Officer of the Community Affairs Bureau. She has previously served as Commanding Officer of the Manhattan South Investigations Unit and of the Public Information Division. She has also commanded and served as the Executive Officer of the 5 Precinct. While assigned to DCPI, the office received a Unit Citation for outstanding performance in 2011 for the coordination of media coverage/requests of the 10th Anniversary of 9/11 and the President’s historical visit to the 1 Precinct and Ground Zero. Also during her tenure at DCPI, the Department developed official social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and the NYPD iPhone application. Assistant Chief Royster holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Organizational Management from St. Joseph’s College and is a 2011 graduate of the Police Management Institute at Columbia University. She is the third African American woman to hold the rank of deputy chief and the first to have held the rank of assistant chief in NYPD history.

CHIEF OF TRANSIT

Kathleen M. O’Reilly

Assistant Chief Kathleen M. O’Reilly joined the New York City Housing Police Department in April 1991, and began her career on patrol in Police Service Area 6. She was promoted to Sergeant in August 1997; Lieutenant in August 2000; Captain in February 2003; Deputy Inspector in November 2007; Inspector in August 2011; Deputy Chief in August 2012; and Assistant Chief in November 2014. She has served in the 24, 30, 34 and Central Park Precincts, PSA 6, the Housing Bureau, the Office of Management, Analysis and Planning, the Warrant Section, Patrol Borough Manhattan North and the Office of the Chief of Department. Assistant Chief O’Reilly most recently served as the Commanding Officer of Patrol Borough Manhattan North, and has also commanded the Chief of Department’s Domestic Violence Unit, and the 24 and Central Park Precincts. She also served as Executive Officer of the 30 Precinct. Assistant Chief O’Reilly holds a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from John Jay College and a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from the State University of New York. She is a 2007 graduate of the Police Management Institute at Columbia University, and a June 2012 graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education.

COMMANDER OF SCHOOL SAFETY DIVISION

Olufunmilola F. Obe

Inspector Olufunmilola F. Obe joined the New York City Police Department in June 1992 as a Police Cadet assigned to the 24 Precinct. In February 1994 she was sworn in as a New York City police officer and assigned to the 17 Precinct. She has also served at the 19, 28, and 50 Precincts, Police Service Area 3, the Property Clerk Division, and the Office of the Police Commissioner. Inspector Obe was promoted to Sergeant in December 2000; Lieutenant in July 2005; Captain in September 2008; Deputy Inspector in June 2012; and Inspector in December 2015. Inspector Obe served as Commanding Officer of the 28 Precinct and Police Service Area 3. She also served as Executive Officer of the 19, 25 and 34 Precincts. Inspector Obe holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from The City College of New York and a Master of Public Administration from Marist College. Inspector Obe is 2014 graduate of the Police Management Institute at Columbia University.

MANHATTAN NORTH BOROUGH COMMANDER

Philip P. Rivera

Deputy Chief Philip P. Rivera joined the New York City Police Department in June 1995, and began his career on patrol in the 46 Precinct. He also served in the 30, 41, 44, 46 and 52 Precincts, Patrol Borough Bronx and the Bronx Impact Response Team. He was promoted to Sergeant in August 2000; Lieutenant in November 2003; Captain in February 2008; Deputy Inspector in December 2012; Inspector in November 2014; and Deputy Chief in August 2017. Deputy Chief Rivera most recently served as Executive Officer of Patrol Borough Manhattan North. He has served as Commanding Officer of the 41 and 46 Precincts. He also served as Executive Officer of the 46 and 52 Precincts. Deputy Chief Rivera holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from John Jay College, and is also a graduate of the Police Executive Research Forum/Senior Management Institute for Police, at Boston University.

Governor Cuomo Urges Caution as Weather System Threatens to Deliver Heavy Snow and High Winds Tonight Through Tuesday

 

High Winds and Blowing Snow Will Impact Travel Conditions Across the State Starting Tonight 

Total Snow Accumulation of Up to 10 Inches in Some Upstate Areas

Wind Gusts Up to 50 MPH Across Most of the State Through Tuesday

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today urged New Yorkers to prepare for snow and high winds as a system moves across the state tonight through Tuesday morning, bringing up to 10 inches of snow in some upstate locations and up to 50 mph wind gusts across much of the state.  The combination of high winds and blowing snow in multiple locations may create hazardous travel conditions, including slippery surfaces, reduced visibility and power outages due to downed limbs and wires.

"The weather system approaching the state tonight will bring a widespread, moderate snowfall to most upstate locations and wind gusts up to 50 miles per hour," Governor Cuomo said. "Conditions could become dangerous, as slippery surfaces, reduced visibility and gusting winds will cause the potential for power outages and difficult travel. We have state personnel and resources ready to assist as needed. Anyone venturing out in the next 48 hours should use extra caution."

Most locations in Western and Central NY, Finger Lakes, North Country and Mohawk Valley will see 3 to 7 inches of snow, while some areas in the North Country and Central NY may see up to 10 inches of snow locally.  High winds will likely affect travel through Tuesday for locations throughout the state with many locations seeing up to 50 mph wind gusts.  Gusty winds can blow around unsecured objects and tree limbs could be broken, resulting in power outage.  In areas where new snow has fallen, winds could cause patchy blowing snow that reduces visibility and creates slippery surfaces.

A Lakeshore Flood Watch is in effect for northern Cayuga, Oswego and Jefferson counties through Tuesday morning.  The combination of winds and significant wave action may result in lakeshore flooding along the immediate lakeshore, especially in bays, inlets, harbors, and other low-lying areas along the shoreline. Shoreline erosion is also possible.

Multiple weather advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service through Tuesday for several locations.  New Yorkers are urged to stay alert and monitor local weather forecasts for changing conditions.  To view the complete listing of weather alerts issued by the National Weather Services in New York State, visit their website here.

Agency Preparations

Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation is prepared to respond with 3,473 supervisors and operators. Statewide assets are as follows:

• 1,549 large plow trucks
• 180 medium duty trucks with plows
• 312 large loaders
• 15 pickups with trucks
• 39 snowblowers
• 52 tow plows
• 17 vac trucks with sewer jet
• 31 tracked excavators
• 47 wheeled excavators
• 15 tree crew bucket trucks
• 33 traffic signal trucks
• 77 chippers, 10" (min) capacity

Thruway Authority

The Thruway Authority has 644 operators and supervisors ready to deploy 234 large snowplows, 102 medium snowplows, 9 tow plows and 59 loaders across the state with more than 120,000 tons of road salt on hand. Variable Message Signs, Highway Advisory Radio and social media are utilized to alert motorists of winter weather conditions on the Thruway.

The Thruway Authority is also encouraging motorists to download its mobile app which is available for free on iPhone and Android devices. The app provides motorists direct access to real-time traffic and navigation assistance while on the go. Motorists can also sign up for TRANSalert e-mails which provide the latest traffic conditions along the Thruway here. 

New York State Police

The New York State Police has instructed all Troopers to remain vigilant and closely monitor conditions for any problems. Additional personnel will be deployed to affected areas as needed. All four-wheel drive vehicles and all specialty vehicles are in-service.

Department of Environmental Conservation

DEC Environmental Conservation Police Officers, Forest Rangers, Emergency Management staff, and regional staff are on alert and monitoring the developing situation and actively patrolling areas and infrastructure likely to be impacted by severe weather. All available assets are positioned to assist with any emergency response.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

New York State Park Police and park personnel are on alert and closely monitoring weather conditions and impacts.  Response equipment is being fueled, tested and prepared for storm response use.  Park visitors should check parks.ny.gov or call their local park office for the latest updates regarding park hours, openings and closings.

Department of Public Service

New York's utilities have approximately 5,100 workers available to engage in damage assessment, response and restoration across New York State. Department of Public Service staff will track the utilities' work throughout the storm event and will ensure the utilities shift the appropriate staffing to the regions anticipated to experience the greatest impact.

Port Authority of New York and New Jersey

The Port Authority urges motorists to use caution during the storm; speed restrictions may be in effect at the bridges as well as along roadways to and from the crossings.  Travelers through the Port Authority's airports, bus terminal and bus station are encouraged to reach out to carriers and airlines directly for the latest information on delays, cancelations or rebookings.  For the latest information about Port Authority facilities, please check social media, sign up for PA alerts or download one of the PA mobile apps. 

Safety Tips

Safe Travel

The leading cause of death and injuries during winter storms is transportation accidents. Before getting behind the wheel, make sure that your vehicle is clear of ice and snow; good vision is key to good driving. Plan your stops and keep more distance between cars. Be extra alert and remember that snowdrifts can hide smaller children. Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

It is important for motorists on all roads to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways. Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time.

Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions. Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely. The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted.

Some of the most important tips for safe driving include:

When winter storms strike, do not drive unless necessary.

• Use caution on bridges as ice can form quicker than on roads.
• Wet leaves on roadways can cause slippery conditions, making it important to drive at slower speeds when approaching patches of them.
• Make sure your car is stocked with blankets, a shovel, flashlight and extra batteries, extra warm clothing, set of tire chains, battery booster cables, quick energy foods and brightly colored cloth to use as a distress flag.
• Keep your gas tank full to prevent gasoline freeze-up.
• If you have a cell phone or two-way radio available for your use, keep the battery charged and keep it with you whenever traveling. If you should become stranded, you will be able to call for help, advising rescuers of your location.
• Make sure someone knows your travel plans.
• While driving, keep vehicles clear of ice and snow.
• Plan stops and keep distance between cars.  Always match your speed to the road and weather conditions.

It's important to note that snowplows travel at speeds up to 35 mph, which in many cases is lower than the posted speed limit, to ensure that salt being dispersed stays in the driving lanes and does not scatter off the roadways.  Oftentimes on interstate highways, snowplows will operate side by side, as this is the most efficient and safe way to clear several lanes at one time. 

Motorists and pedestrians should also keep in mind that snowplow drivers have limited lines of sight, and the size and weight of snowplows can make it very difficult to maneuver and stop quickly. Snow blowing from behind the plow can severely reduce visibility or cause whiteout conditions.  Motorists should not attempt to pass snowplows or follow too closely.  The safest place for motorists to drive is well behind the snowplows where the roadway is clear and salted.

Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress During Covid-19 Pandemic - NOVEMBER 1, 2020

 

Positive Testing Rate in All Focus Zone Areas is 3.10 Percent; New York State Positivity Outside All Focus Zone Areas is 1.36 Percent

Statewide Positivity Rate is 1.51 Percent

17 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

"New York had the highest positivity rate in the nation at the peak of this crisis — now we have the third lowest in the nation. New Yorkers should be very proud of that fact, but we also need to remain vigilant," Governor Cuomo said. "The fall is difficult for everyone - many countries are closing down again or implementing restrictions, and while in New York we're managing it well, we need to stay smart: wear a mask, wash your hands, socially distance and be united, because we can only beat this virus together."

The Governor noted that the positive testing rate in all focus areas under the state's Micro-Cluster strategy is 3.10 percent, and outside the focus zone areas is 1.36 percent. Within the focus areas, 13,283 test results were reported yesterday, yielding 412 positives. In the remainder of the state, not counting these focus areas, 135,652 test results were reported, yielding 1,843 positives. 

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Patient Hospitalization - 1,125 (+4)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 134
• Hospital Counties - 50
• Number ICU - 259 (+11)
• Number ICU with Intubation - 117 (-5)
• Total Discharges - 79,831 (+114)
• Deaths - 17
• Total Deaths - 25,824

Governor Cuomo Announces New Guidelines Allowing Out-of-State Travelers to "Test Out" of Mandatory 14-Day Quarantine

 

Travelers Must Get Tested Within Three Days Prior to Landing in New York, Quarantine for at Least Three Days Upon Arrival, and Get a Test on Day Four of Arrival

If Travelers Receive a Negative Test On Day Four of Quarantine They May Exit Quarantine When They Receive Negative Result

States that are Contiguous with New York Continue to Be Exempted from Quarantine Protocol — Essential Workers Also Continue to be Exempted

Travelers Who Were Only Out of State for Less Than 24 Hours Do Not Need to Quarantine but Must Get a Test on Day Four of Arrival Back in NY

All Travelers Covered by The Advisory Must Continue to Fill Out Traveler Health Form Upon Arrival Into New York State

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced new guidelines allowing out-of-state travelers to New York to "test out" of the mandatory 14-day quarantine. Travelers from states that are contiguous with New York will continue to be exempt from the travel advisory; however, covered travelers must continue to fill out the Traveler Health Form. Essential workers will continue to be exempt as well. The new protocol is effective Wednesday, November 4. 

"The ship of State is sailing well: New York is the third lowest positivity rate in the nation and New Yorkers should be very proud of what they're doing. However, travel has become an issue - the rest of the states pose a threat. We're going to a new plan given the changing facts, and the experts suggest we shift to a testing policy," Governor Cuomo said. "So there will be no quarantine list; there will be one rule that applies across the country. We bent the curve of this virus by following the data and the science, and we are continuing that approach with these new guidelines."

For any traveler to New York State from out of state, exempting the contiguous states, the new guidelines for travelers to test-out of the mandatory 14-day quarantine are below:

• For travelers who were in another state for more than 24 hours:

• Travelers must obtain a test within three days of departure from that state.
• The traveler must, upon arrival in New York, quarantine for three days.
• On day 4 of their quarantine, the traveler must obtain seek another COVID test. If both tests come back negative, the traveler may exit quarantine early upon receipt of the second negative diagnostic test.

• For travelers who were in another state for less than 24 hours:

• The traveler does not need a test prior to their departure from the other state, and does not need to quarantine upon arrival in New York State.
• However, the traveler must fill out the traveler information form upon entry into New York State, and take a COVID diagnostic test 4 days after their arrival in New York.

Local health departments will validate tests, if necessary, and if a test comes back positive, will issue isolation orders and initiate contact tracing. The local health department must make contact with the state the traveler came from, to ensure contact tracing proceeds there as well. All travelers must continue to fill out the traveler information form upon arrival into New York State to contribute to New York State's robust contact tracing program.

Governor Cuomo Updates New Yorkers on State's Progress During COVID-19 Pandemic - OCTOBER 31, 2020

 

Positive Testing Rate in All Focus Zone Areas is 3.01 Percent; New York State Positivity Outside All Focus Zone Areas is 1.30 Percent 

Statewide Positivity Rate is 1.49 Percent 

8 COVID-19 Deaths in New York State Yesterday 

 Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

"As with everything, context is key: Cases are surging around the country and around the globe. In a sea of division and a sea of COVID chaos, our ship of state is sailing well," Governor Cuomo said. "The world, however, is in trouble. So New Yorkers should be very proud of where we are, but we also need to stay vigilant — wear a mask, wash your hands, socially distance, and stay New York Tough."

The Governor noted that the positive testing rate in all focus areas under the state's Micro-Cluster strategy is 3.01 percent, and outside the focus zone areas is 1.30 percent. Within the focus areas, 15,493 test results were reported yesterday, yielding 467 positives. In the remainder of the state, not counting these focus areas, 121,469 test results were reported, yielding 1,582 positives. Full results for tests reported yesterday, the day prior.

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

• Patient Hospitalization - 1,121 (+36)
• Patients Newly Admitted - 147
• Hospital Counties - 47
• Number ICU - 248 (+5)
• Number ICU with Intubation - 122 (+6)
• Total Discharges - 79,717 (+96)
• Deaths - 8
• Total Deaths - 25,807

Court Directs Jury Selection to Begin in Opioid Trial in January

 

Jury Selection to Take Place After Being Previously Delayed Due to COVID-19

 New York Attorney General Letitia James released the following statement after, during a pre-trial conference, the Suffolk County State Supreme Court directed jury selection to begin in the trial against multiple opioid manufacturers and distributors in January of 2021, after previously being delayed due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health crisis:

“For more than two decades, the opioid epidemic has wreaked havoc on New Yorkers and Americans across the nation. Come next year, the deadly scheme perpetrated by the companies responsible for this national nightmare will be presented in open court and laid bare before the American people, and no one will be able to deny the immoral actions that led us here. We are committed to exposing the illicit conduct that took place and holding each of these companies responsible for their role in the opioid crisis, and will continue fighting for justice for victims.”

Justice Jerry Garguilo directed jury selection to begin in January of 2021 and estimated the trial to begin in February or March of 2021. Earlier this year, the court denied the defendants’ efforts to delay the trial that was originally set to begin on March 20, 2020, but after COVID-19 began to spread rapidly across New York, the court delayed the trial indefinitely for the health and safety of all involved.

Last March, Attorney General James filed the nation’s most comprehensive lawsuit against multiple manufacturers and distributors. The defendants in the suit included Purdue Pharma, its affiliates, and the Sackler family; Janssen Pharmaceuticals and its affiliates (including its parent company Johnson & Johnson); Mallinckrodt LLC and its affiliates; Endo Health Solutions and its affiliates; Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. and its affiliates; and Allergan Finance, LLC and its affiliates. The distributors named in the complaint are McKesson Corporation, Cardinal Health Inc., Amerisource Bergen Drug Corporation, and Rochester Drug Cooperative Inc. 

The upcoming trial will cover Attorney General James’ lawsuits against all manufacturers and distributors other than Purdue Pharma, the Sackler family, and Mallinckrodt. The case against these three defendants are moving separately through U.S. Bankruptcy Court.

100 PERCENT - Election 2020 - Predictions

The biggest race is that of President of the United States. Four years ago I was the only Bronx political reporter to openly call the race for Donald Trump. During the past four years Donald Trump was cruising to an easy victory, that is until the Corona Virus started in China. That virus made its way across Asia into Europe, and finally to the United States. Now every Democrat who blamed Trump from anything to everything blames him for the Corona Virus.

Only four incumbent presidents in post 1900 United States history who served a full four year term were not reelected to a second term. They were William Taft 1909 - 1913, Herbert Hoover 1929 - 1933, Jimmy Carter 1977 - 1981, and George Bush Sr. 1989 - 1993. Only four Vice Presidents have been elected President, George Bush Sr. in 1988, Martin Van Buren in 1856, Thomas Jefferson in 1800, and John Adams in 1796. 

While certain people admonish Trump for his friendships with certain foreign countries he is the only president since Jimmy Carter not to have participated in a war with another country. The national economy has continued to grow even with the pandemic, and Trump is the first U.S. President to recognize  Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

As I did four years ago I predict that Donald Trump will be elected, this time to a second term as president of the United States. As was the case four years ago the race is too close to call, and may not be fully determined until sometime in December. Four years ago Donald Trump won one election district in the 80th A.D. This year Donald Trump should win seven election districts in the 80th and 82nd assembly districts combined. 

On the local Bronx side two elections will have surprising results. In the 14th Congressional race in 2018 current Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez won a surprising victory over the long time incumbent, and she is now the incumbent. When all the votes are counted I expect AOC to be the winner, but her opponent John Cummings will have come closer than many expect him to, at least in the Bronx. It is the Queens part of the district that will provide the safe margin of victory for the incumbent congresswoman. AOC's primary opponent who is running on a minor third party line should be of no significance in the race.

The race to watch is the 80th Assembly race where in 2012 now Councilman Mark Gjonaj received more votes than all three of the other candidates including the incumbent (at that time) assemblywoman. Gjonaj then won election to the city council in 2017, and in April of 2018 a special election was held that handed the assembly seat to Gjonaj's then Chief of Staff with a total vote count which was less then the number of votes Gjonaj alone received in 2012. Said assembly member did not have a primary in 2018 or in 2020, and announced her decision to run for Bronx Borough President next year months before her November election which has angered many people that she is taking the people of the 80th A.D. for granted, while she campaigns for Bronx BP. Her leading an anti police march through the district right past the park where hundreds of people showed to support the police has angered others in the 80th A.D. 

Mr. Gene De Francis is the head of the Allerton Merchants Association, an officer of the 49th Precinct Community Council, and former Veteran of the armed forces which makes him a formidable opponent to the weak incumbent. The fact that candidate Gene De Francis is running with Conservative minded John Cummings in a conservative minded district is an added plus, including the two Democratic Clubs on the West side of the 80th Assembly District that have endorsed Gene De Francis. We see another Mark Gjonaj type person in Gene De Francis, and for that reason with the added minuses of the weak incumbent who also lost both of the District Leaders on her slate in the June primary we call this race for Gene De Francis by a margin of 54% to 46 %.

The writer Robert Press has an excellent record of calling close political races either exactly or within the margin of error.