NYS OASAS SHOWCASES IMPACT OF OPIOID SETTLEMENT FUNDS WITH NEW WEB SERIES, “OSF@WORK”

 

New Videos Feature Stories of New Yorkers Working to Address the Opioid and Overdose Epidemic

The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (NYS OASAS) is launching a new effort dedicated to showcasing the impact the Opioid Settlement Fund is making throughout New York State. A new video series, called “OSF@Work,” highlights the initiatives supported with this funding through the stories of individuals and organizations working to address the opioid and overdose epidemic. The stories can be viewed on the New York State Opioid Settlements page.

“All over New York State, there are individuals and organizations using this funding to do great work, and making a difference in their communities by helping those impacted by addiction and their families,” OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham said. “This new initiative highlights these important efforts, and we hope to inspire others who view these stories to take an active role in making a positive impact throughout the state.”  

Featured stories include New Yorkers who are going above and beyond to save lives of individuals affected by addiction, as well as providers who are delivering lifesaving prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery services. The page will be updated regularly with new videos showcasing the work happening across New York State using money from the Opioid Settlement Fund. New York has made almost $400 million in settlement funding available for providers across the state. For up-to-date information about initiatives funded by the Settlement Fund, visit the New York State Opioid Settlement Fund Tracker. 

New Yorkers are also encouraged to take an active role in preventing overdose deaths in their communities by ordering fentanyl and xylazine test strips through the OASAS ordering portal. To date, more than 13.2 million fentanyl test strips, 10 million xylazine test strips, and 296,000 naloxone kits have been ordered through this portal. OASAS also offers free virtual naloxone training sessions, which educates the public on how to recognize and respond to an overdose by administering naloxone.

The New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports oversees one of the nation’s largest systems of addiction services with approximately 1,700 prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and recovery programs serving over 731,000 individuals per year. This includes the direct operation of 12 Addiction Treatment Centers where our doctors, nurses, and clinical staff provide inpatient and residential services to approximately 8,000 individuals per year.

 

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, residential, or outpatient care can be found on the NYS OASAS website.

Colombian National Sentenced to Over 20 Years in Prison for Role in Conspiracy to Kidnap and Assault U.S. Army Soldiers in Colombia

 

A Colombian national was sentenced in the Southern District of Florida for her role in kidnapping and assaulting two members of the U.S. military who were on temporary duty in Bogotá, Colombia.

Kenny Julieth Uribe Chiran, 35, was sentenced to 262 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $24,115 in restitution. She is the third and final defendant to be sentenced and held accountable for this criminal conspiracy. She pleaded guilty in March 2025 to conspiracy to kidnap an internationally protected person.

“Uribe Chiran and her co-defendants mercilessly preyed on U.S. soldiers when they drugged their drinks, stole their valuables, and left them incapacitated on the street,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Kidnapping and assaulting two U.S. military service members is deplorable and the Criminal Division will continue to prioritize protecting our service members through these prosecutions. I thank the prosecutors and our law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to bring justice to these victims.”

“Members of our military, whether serving here or abroad, can count on this Department of Justice’s respect, support, and protection,” said U.S. Attorney Hayden P. O’Byrne for the Southern District of Florida. “Kidnappings and assaults against U.S. service members will not be tolerated. To those who would dare commit such reprehensible acts against America’s heroes, know this: We will identify you; we will find you; and we will prosecute you as aggressively as the law permits.”

“The FBI’s commitment to investigate criminal acts against the U.S. military beyond our borders is clearly demonstrated by our persistent pursuit of justice for the two kidnapped soldiers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office. “Our close cooperation with Colombian and Chilean law enforcement authorities was essential to this international investigation’s success. To all would be kidnappers the message is clear: target our citizens with violence anywhere in the world and we will hold you accountable for your actions.”

According to court documents, the two U.S. soldiers went to an entertainment district in Bogotá to watch a soccer game on the evening of March 5, 2020. They later went to a pub, where Uribe Chiran and one of her co-defendants approached the soldiers and, without their knowledge, put drugs in their drinks that rendered them incapacitated. Medical examinations later confirmed the presence of benzodiazepines in the two soldiers’ systems. The defendants then kidnapped the soldiers, took their valuables, including their credit and debit card information, and left them incapacitated on the street in separate locations. The defendants used one victim’s credit card and the other victim’s debit card to make purchases and withdraw money.

Uribe Chiran was extradited in September 2024 from Colombia to the United States. Co-defendant Pedro Jose Silva Ochoa was extradited in April 2024 from Chile to the United States, pleaded guilty in December 2024, and was sentenced in March 2025 to 27 years and three months in prison. Co-defendant Jeffersson Arango Castellanos was extradited in May 2023 from Colombia to the United States, pleaded guilty in January 2024, and was sentenced in May 2024 to 48 years and nine months in prison.

The FBI Miami Field Office investigated the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Office of the Judicial Attaché in Bogotá provided significant assistance in this matter. The United States thanks Colombian law enforcement authorities for their valuable assistance.

DEC ANNOUNCES FIRST STATE RECORD FISH IN 2025

 

North Country Angler Catches Giant Channel Catfish

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced the first state record fish of the year. On May 3, while shorefishing with his son, Dylan Kampnich of Dexter reeled in a 37-pound 9-ounce channel catfish from Black River Bay in Jefferson County. Mr. Kampnich’s record-breaking catch surpassed the previous state record catfish caught in 2022, also from the Black River, by 13 ounces. 

“We are so fortunate to have incredibly diverse and affordable fishing opportunities across the state,” DEC Acting Commissioner Amanda Lefton said. “Congratulations to Mr. Kampnich on his record-breaking catfish. This catch is a great example of what New York’s abundant waterways have to offer and the thrilling news of this catch will certainly get anglers excited about getting on the water this season.”

Channel catfish are the largest members of the catfish species that live in New York. They feed primarily on the bottom at night and are most easily caught using live bait such as worms or baitfish. When hooked, catfish can provide a challenge for even the most experienced anglers. For more information on fishing for catfish visit DEC’s website.

Mr. Kampnich submitted details of his winning catch as part of DEC's newly revamped Angler Achievement Awards Program, which tracks state record fish and recognizes anglers who catch any of the 40 eligible fish species that meet or exceed the minimum qualifying lengths established for that species. Through this program, anglers can enter freshwater fish that meet specific qualifying criteria and receive official recognition of their catch along with a species-specific sticker commemorating their achievement.

The program’s three categories are: Angler Award; Youth Angler Award; and State Record. As part of the program revamp, anglers can now submit entries for qualifying catches from the convenience of their smart phone through an online entry form. For official program rules, eligible species, and associated minimum qualifying lengths, visit the Angler Achievement Awards webpage.

The program further supports Governor Kathy Hochul's “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative that promotes physical and mental health by helping encourage New York’s kids and families to put down their phones and computers, take a break from social media, and enjoy recreation and outdoor social gatherings. Anglers are encouraged to check out the Tackle Box feature in DEC’s HuntFishNY app that provides one-stop-shopping for information on access sites, stocking, regulations and more. 

Monday, May 26th for a Memorial Day procession, ceremony and flower drop at Van Nest Memorial Plaza, the procession starts at 12:15. Monday, May 26th for a Memorial Day procession, ceremony and flower drop at Van Nest Memorial Plaza, the procession starts at 12:15.

 

Dear East Bronx History Forum Member,

Please join us on Monday, May 26th for a Memorial Day procession, ceremony and flower drop at Van Nest Memorial Plaza, the procession starts at 12:15.

Thank you

Dorothy A Krynicki 

Secretary 

Department of City Planning Kicks Off Engagement for White Plains Road Neighborhood Plan

Community-Focused Planning Process Would Foster Inclusive Housing and Economic Growth Along Key North Bronx Corridor 

Engagement Includes Public Meetings, Online Survey, Steering Committee 

Department of City Planning (DCP) Director Dan Garodnick announced the launch of public engagement, including an online survey, for the White Plains Road Neighborhood Plan, a community-led planning process to deliver homes, jobs, and neighborhood investments along White Plains Road in the Bronx. Announced in partnership with Council Members Kevin Riley and Eric Dinowitz, this planning process began with a kick-off in-person community event organized by Council Member Riley, who has advocated for developing a comprehensive neighborhood plan for this area.

 

“The White Plains Road corridor is home to vibrant neighborhoods, active retail, and wide-ranging transit options,” said Dan Garodnick, Director of the Department of City Planning. “Through this planning process, we can create more housing, grow economic opportunity, and deliver community-centered investments—all to support an even brighter future for the North Bronx.”

 

“The launch of the White Plains Road Neighborhood Plan marks an exciting and important step forward for the Bronx. I commend Director Garodnick, Council Members Riley and Dinowitz, and all the community members who are coming together to shape a shared vision for this vibrant corridor. This community-led process is about more than planning – it’s about ensuring that the people who live and work along White Plains Road have a real voice in building a future with more affordable housing, better jobs, and stronger neighborhood infrastructure. I encourage everyone to get involved and have their voice heard,” said Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson.

 

“As someone who was born and raised in this district, I know firsthand the pride our neighbors feel and the challenges we’ve faced for far too long along the White Plains Road corridor. This plan is about turning long-standing community concerns into long-term investment and opportunity,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley. “I’m proud to partner with the Department of City Planning and Council Member Eric Dinowitz to ensure this is a community-led vision driven by the voices of our neighbors and centered on the future we deserve. This is a chance for us to create thoughtful, community-driven solutions that reflect what this part of the Bronx can be: safe, vibrant, inclusive, and reflective of the people who call it home.”

 

“I'm excited to see the Department of City Planning begin community engagement for the White Plains Road Neighborhood plan. Community engagement is critical for zoning changes that can allow for more affordable housing, including housing for families with children. The inclusion of an online survey for the public to share personal stories, ideas, and concerns is critical for transparency and ensuring the community's voice is heard throughout the planning process. I look forward to working closely with residents, local organizations, and city agencies to shape a plan that reflects our shared vision for a thriving Bronx,” said Council Member Eric Dinowitz.

 

Focusing on the White Plains Road corridor in the Northern Bronx and intersecting commercial streets, this planning effort will explore opportunities to encourage more housing, including income-restricted affordable housing; support economic development; enhance the public realm, and deliver infrastructure investments that address community needs. By achieving these goals, the plan can help ensure the neighborhood’s long-term success.

 

Specifically, the plan focuses on a stretch of White Plains Road from Adee Avenue to the south to the Bronx/Mount Vernon border, as well as intersecting portions of Gun Hill Road and East 233rd Street. The area has access to a range of public transportation options, between the 2 and 5 trains that run along White Plains Road, adjacent Metro-North stations, and a variety of local and express buses.

 

Today, the corridor is primarily characterized by one and two-story commercial buildings, as well as some mid-rise apartment buildings, mostly built before the 1960s. Several contextual rezonings between 2005 and 2011 limited housing growth across lower-density areas, while encouraging some growth along corridors. Completed before the creation of the Mandatory Inclusionary Housing program, these rezonings did not mandate affordable income-restricted housing. 

 

The online survey asks the public about their connection to White Plains Road, what they like most about their community, their priorities for the future, how DCP can best share information on this process, and more. This information will help to shape the planning process as it develops.

 

In addition to the survey, a Steering Committee will also be formed, drawing from a diverse array of area stakeholders, including members of faith-based organizations and local community groups. The Committee will help shape the plan’s public engagement strategy and serve as neighborhood ambassadors to drive participation in the planning process over the coming months.

Department of City Planning

The Department of City Planning (DCP) plans for the strategic growth and development of the City through ground-up planning with communities, the development of land use policies and zoning regulations applicable citywide, and its contribution to the preparation of the City's 10-year Capital Strategy. DCP promotes housing production and affordability, fosters economic development and coordinated investments in infrastructure and services, and supports resilient, sustainable communities across the five boroughs for a more equitable New York City.

 

In addition, DCP supports the City Planning Commission in its annual review of approximately 450 land use applications for a variety of discretionary approvals. The Department also assists both government agencies and the public by advising on strategic and capital planning and providing policy analysis, technical assistance and data relating to housing, transportation, community facilities, demography, zoning, urban design, waterfront areas and public open space.

State Senator Gustavo Rivera - Join Bronx CB7's Public Hearings on the Kingsbridge Armory Developer's Plans!

 

Dear Neighbor, 

I want to share with you an important update about the Kingsbridge Armory Development Project.  

After selecting 8th Regiment Partners LLC as the Armory's new developer in February, the project has reached a new key milestone. This past Monday, the project was formally certified and marked the start of the seven-month Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, better known as ULURP. This means that the Department of City Planning (DCP) has deemed the application ready for public review. 

Your voice needs to be heard! In the weeks ahead, Bronx Community Board 7 will host two Public Hearings to inform the community about the proposed redevelopment and offer opportunities for public input.

It is essential that you participate in reviewing the project, learn about the efforts to ensure accountability from the developer, and advocate to maximize the benefits and investments for our Armory and our borough. The Armory has been vacant for too many years, and we can stand together to make it right and raise the standards for development that benefits us. 

If you participated in the Together for Kingsbridge community visioning process, your input helped select this developer. Now, we need to make sure our community’s vision becomes a reality. 

I hope to see you there!

Gustavo Rivera

New York State Senate

33rd District