Saturday, June 8, 2019

Taraji P. Henson, Congressional Black Caucus Discuss Mental Health Risks and Suicide Among Black Teenagers



This report was originally broadcast on June 7. 

Members of the Congressional Black Caucus and actor Taraji P. Henson, best known for her role as Cookie Lyon on Fox’s TV drama “Empire,” discussed issues surrounding mental health and suicide risk among black teenagers. Ms. Henson talked about her experience as a teacher, mental health advocate and a family member of two black men who had committed suicide. They talked about mental health stigma in African American communities and ways schools could better identify and address the mental health needs of their students and what actions Congress could take to support such initiatives. 

This video may not play on certain browsers. Click here if you experience problems. 

You and your loved ones have a good and safe weekend.

NYPD Commissioner James O'Neill: Remember What You Told Harlem Residents in 2017?

 
From The G-Man Urges Department Leader to Honor His Word
If Forced to Render a Decision on
Officer Daniel Pantaleo's Future

The following excerpt is from the 2017 news report "NYPD Commissioner: We're Making Progress in Police-Community Relations, But We Still Have a Long Way to Go", which was a From The G-Man exclusive.

On June 15, New York City Police Commissioner James O'Neill appeared at the 32nd Precinct Community Council meeting in Harlem and addressed issues presented by civic groups, community activists and residents. 

The commissioner was warmly welcomed by those in attendance, as were 32nd Precinct Deputy Inspector Michael Baker and other NYPD officials that were on hand, and residents took the opportunity to convey their appreciation for his service to the city and department.

"It is an honor to have you here, sir. We thank you for all that you're doing to deal with crime and improve the relationship between police and the community, said one resident. 

In his opening statement, O'Neill noted that crime levels had dropped in the city and attributed the decrease to the reestablishment of community policing. "I believe a big reason for the decrease is because we're placing a lot more focus on community policing. If we want to control crime in the city, we have to interact with communities and they have to interact with us," he stated. 

The commissioner, who has served in the position for nearly nine months, was extremely direct in addressing the long-standing issues between police officers and communities of color. Without mentioning any specific incident, he pointed out how the record number of protests that occurred in 2014 dramatically impacted and marred the relationship between the NYPD and residents from various communities. "That was an extremely difficult year for the NYPD and the city, and much of what happened was self-inflicted," said O'Neill. "Things are moving in the right direction now. We're definitely making progress in police-community relations, but we still have a long way to go." 

Commissioner O'Neill answered all questions with extreme candidness and a sense of compassion, including follow-ups posed by From The G-Man.   

The Changing Demographics of Mass Incarceration

 
After decades of constructing a system of mass incarceration, it appears that our nation is beginning to turn the tide.

Click here to read the report. 

Source: The Southern Poverty Law Center

National Gun Awareness Day: New York Buildings and Structures to Be Illuminated in Orange


Click here for details. 

Click here for information on "Wear Orange Weekend".  

Click here to view building photos.

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Why Marianne Williamson Thinks She Can Defeat Trump


This report was published on YouTube on June 6. 

PBS Newshour: Marianne Williamson doesn’t have experience holding elected office, but the activist and author is running for president anyway. According to her, what Democrats need to defeat President Trump in 2020 is someone who can reach the American people not just politically, but psychologically. She joins Judy Woodruff to talk about the "moral challenge" of climate change and U.S. "militaristic madness."

Chrystia Freeland on Bringing About a Peaceful Resolution to the Political Crisis in Venezuela


This report was published on YouTube on June 7.

Global News: Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland on Friday spoke about the ongoing political situation in Venezuela, saying there is an "international convergence' around a peaceful transition in power and that Cuba has a "part to play." 

Freeland said interim Venezuelan president Juan Guaido has addressed the Lima Group, of which Canada, is a part, about the ongoing political turmoil in his country and that Canada's goal is to find a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

National Puerto Rican Day Parade 2019 ¡Boricua!

 
Click here for details and a listing of events. 

Source: New York Latin Culture Magazine

Friday, June 7, 2019

From Prison to Stanford: How He Did It


This video was published on YouTube on May 7, 2019. 

Source: The Kath Path

The 5: Forgotten Black Heroes


This report was published on YouTube on February 14, 2019. 

Source: Black Excellence

Dancing with the Doctors 2019


This video was published on YouTube on April 15, 2019. 

Dr Divya Koster and Dance Pro Martin Rivera Baldera take center stage on the Ballroom dance floor at 2019 Dancing With The Doctors Gala Benefit, Twin River Event Center. 

Source: Martin Rivera Baldera

Free Outdoor Movies in New York City This Summer


Survey the myriad available options and find a movie night that appeals to you.

Click here for the report.

Source: The New York Times

Brother of Slain Bronx EMT Yadira Arroyo Joins FDNY EMS in Her Honor

FDNY EMS graduate Joel Rosado  

Click here for the report. 

Source: The New York Daily News

D-Day Ceremony on National Mall

Click on the photo to increase its size.

The Friends of the National World War II Memorial marked the 75th anniversary of D-Day with a ceremony at the the memorial in Washington, DC.

Click here for video.

Source: C-SPAN 

New York Police Commissioner Apologizes for Stonewall Raid in 1969

 
New York's police commissioner apologized on Thursday for the raid on the Stonewall Inn gay bar 50 years ago that gave rise to the modern LGBT rights movement, describing the incident as "harassment" that was "wrong, plain and simple."Patrons of the bar fought back against the raid on June 28, 1969, leading to unprecedented demonstrations for the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the streets of Greenwich Village outside the Stonewall.

Click here for the report.

Source: Reuters 

Surplus Vehicle and Equipment Auction In New York City on June 12


The New York State Office of General Services (OGS) today announced that the following surplus vehicle, highway equipment, and miscellaneous property auction has been scheduled for 10:30 a.m.in New York City on June 12. The auction will be held at Hudson River Park Trust, Pier 40 Parking Garage, 353 West Street.

For a listing of other New York State auctions to be held throughout the state later this year go to www.nysstore.com.  

For information on specific items and terms of sale, please visit www.ogs.ny.gov, email state.surplus@ogs.ny.gov, or call (518) 457-6335.

Source: NYSOGS

New York Commemorates the 75th Anniversary of D-Day


Services Held for WW II Veterans Living in All State Nursing Homes

Governor Andrew Cuomo today announced a special day of commemoration of military service featuring World War II Veterans and their families residing in all five of New York State's Veterans' Homes. In honor and recognition of the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and OPERATION OVERLORD, the largest amphibious operation in military history, the Governor declared June 6, 2019, as "Salute to World War II Military Service Day" across New York.

"On the 75th Anniversary of D-Day I want to offer a sincere thank you to all our veterans and their families for their sacrifice and service to protect our freedoms," Governor Cuomo said. "I urge all New Yorkers to join me as we honor the courageous service members who risked everything on D-Day when 160,000 American and allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy and turned the tide of the war and the course of history forever. For those we lost and the veterans who made it home, thank you. We owe you a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid."

Click here for the full announcement.

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

At Least 1 Dead in Accident at West Point



Statement from Governor Andrew Cuomo 

"My heart breaks for all those involved in the tragic training accident at West Point this morning. These courageous cadets and soldiers represent the best of New York State and our country, and we owe them a debt of gratitude for their bravery in choosing to serve our country and protect our freedoms. This incident is made all the more heart wrenching as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of D-Day today, a day where we remember those who gave their lives for our country.

"I am grateful to the first responders who are on the scene right now and am directing the State Office of Emergency Management to provide any resources necessary to assist.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, we pray for a speedy recovery for those involved and we share in the sorrow experienced by their loved ones during this extremely difficult time."

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Roberto Clemente State Park's Redesigned Waterfront and Gateway Unveiled


Earlier today, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the unveiling of Roberto Clemente State Park's redesigned waterfront and gateway with newly constructed ballfields, capping nearly $100 million in improvements to the park's nearly 50-year-old infrastructure since 2011 to make the park more resilient, inviting, and enhance youth programming. In addition, the Governor announced $44 million to support New York State's Summer Youth Employment Program this year to provide valuable training for young people from low-income families.

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

LGBTQ Pride Month Exhibit Opens in Albany


Pride Flag Raised Over the State Capitol For the First Time in History


On June 5, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced the opening of the LGBTQ Pride Month exhibit entitled "Equality Will Never Be Silent," which celebrates the New York State LGBTQ community and recognizes the meaningful political, cultural and artistic impacts of 16 LGBTQ New Yorkers. The exhibit is located in the Governor's Reception Room on the second floor of the New York State Capitol and will run through the summer. Additionally, the Governor announced that the LGBTQ pride flag will be raised over the state capitol for the first time in New York State history. 

More information on the exhibit can be found here.

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

SUNY Downstate MC to Receive $16 Million for Study Into Long-Term Effects of HIV


SUNY Downstate Medical Center has received a seven-year, $16 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to fund a new study to expand our understanding of the physical, mental, and psychosocial impacts of HIV and prolonged exposure to anti-retroviral therapy on long-term survivors with HIV. The study provides a unique perspective on how HIV and its treatments make patients more susceptible to chronic conditions or worsens their symptoms from these diseases. The announcement recognizes HIV Long-Term Survivors Day, celebrated each year on June 5.

"New York State set a nation-leading goal to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic by the end of 2020, and funding to support studies like this is critical to achieving that goal," Governor Cuomo said. "By researching the impact of both HIV and its treatments on the aging population, we can gain a better understanding of the long-term impacts of this disease and ensure those living with HIV are given the best care and resources possible."

The grant will help fund the Brooklyn Clinical Research Site at Downstate where two important prospective cohort studies—the Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study (MACS) and Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS)—were integrated and expanded into the MACS/WIHS Combined Cohort Study (MWCCS) in January after decades of working separately. Through this study, researchers are examining multiple focus areas, including the intersection of HIV with mental health and well-being; social, environmental, and psychological factors associated with engagement in care; and frailty.

Click here for the full announcement.

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Wednesday, June 5, 2019

In Memoriam: Herbert M. Sandler


The Man Who Made ProPublica Possible

Click here for the report. 

Source: ProPublica

Rep. Tlaib Reads Death Threat: I Want to Go Home to My Boys


This report was published on YouTube on June 4. 

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) got emotional while questioning FBI official Michael McGarrity on the resources the bureau has to investigate and prosecute domestic terrorists.

Gov. Cuomo Issues Statement on Rent Reform Deadline


"We are quickly coming to the end of the legislative session and there are a number of important issues where progress hangs in the balance. While there is much discussion and negotiation, clarity is of paramount importance at this point. Rent reform is one of the most important priorities. It expires in 10 days. The Assembly has put out nine rent reform bills. The Senate said yesterday that they have the votes to pass the nine rent reform bills. I call on the Senate to pass the bills today. I am ready to sign the bills if they pass. If they do not pass the bills today it means they cannot and New Yorkers should know the respective positions so we can pass a new law before the expiration of the existing rent law on June 15." 

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo 


The Backstory: 61 Arrested, Including Jumaane
Williams, at Rent Reform Protest in Albany

GGE Update: June 6 'Day of Action' Canceled


The following statement was submitted by Brittany Brathwaite, Girls for Gender Equity's Manager of Organizing and Innovation.

Thank you! 
You've joined us at City Hall; you've tweeted at the New York City Department of Education; you've testified at the Title IX Hearing; and together we are demanding the School Girls Deserve.
Thank you for joining us at last Friday's press conference, held in honor of Mya Vizcarrondo-Rios.
Previously, we asked you to save the date of June 6, 2019, but we will no longer be organizing a direct action on this day. Instead we ask that you stay tuned; we will continue this fight and call on your support soon. Thank you in advance for your continued partnership!
If you haven't already, today is your last chance to sign on to our letter to Chancellor Carranza and leave him a personalized message.

Facebook Post Threatening Gay Pride Events Sparks Concerns


Click here for the report.

Source: The Watertown Daily Times

Statement from Governor Andrew Cuomo 

"I am appalled by reports of a threatening message posted on Facebook calling for a mass shooting of Watertown's LGBTQ community during Pride activities. 

"In New York, we have zero tolerance for such cowardly acts and I've asked State Police to assist local authorities to prosecute this individual to the fullest extent of the law. 

"New York stands tallest when we stand together, and we will call out bigotry and hate wherever and whenever we see it." 

Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo

Advocates: Legislation Will Protect NY’s Drinking Water From Emerging Contaminants

 
The following was submitted by Environmental Advocates of New York.

Albany – Advocates joined Assembly Health Committee Chair Richard Gottfried and other legislators in Albany today to call for immediate action to protect New York’s drinking water. Assembly Member Gottfried has introduced new legislation (A.7839) establishing a list of dangerous chemicals to be tested for in drinking water, and setting a deadline for the New York State Department of Health (DOH) to implement this testing.

The legislation lists emerging contaminants that all New York communities, no matter the size, will be required to test for in their drinking water sources. The list includes not only toxic PFAS chemicals like PFOA and PFOS, but also other contaminants known to occur in New York, largely drawn from US EPA’s Third Unregulated Contaminant Rule.

In New York State, small communities are not being tested for emerging contaminants like PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane in their drinking water. Under federal regulations, only public water systems serving more than 10,000 people are required to test for certain chemicals that may harm human health. This gap in testing leaves approximately 2.5 million New Yorkers in the dark when it comes to the safety of their drinking water.

On September 7, 2016, the Cuomo Administration promised swift action to close the federal loophole. That was exactly 1,001 days ago. DOH has yet to implement statewide testing for emerging contaminants, despite being instructed by the Legislature to do so in 2017. Additionally, DOH hasn’t set enforceable drinking water standards (Maximum Contaminant Levels) for PFOA, PFOS, and 1,4-dioxane, so contamination can be treated where elevated levels are discovered.

Following drinking water contamination crises in Hoosick Falls, Petersburgh, Newburgh, and on Long Island, and with recent data detailing that nearly 16 million New Yorkers are served by water systems in which emerging contaminants have been detected, New York still has much to do to ensure that drinking water for all residents is protected from source to tap.

In addition to Assembly Member Gottfried’s legislation, advocates are urging the passage of several other bills to protect drinking water and public health from emerging contaminants:
 
  • S439/A445 - bans PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam
  • S2000/A4739 - bans PFAS chemicals in food packaging
  • S4389/A6295 - bans 1,4-dioxane in personal care products
  • S3337-C/A5477-C - extends the statute of limitations extender for public water supplies to hold polluters accountable
  • A7625 - requires industry to test surrounding groundwater and surface water
“Since 2017 we’ve made historic investments in water quality, but it’s only as good as our implementation and oversight. New Yorkers – especially those depending on smaller water systems – deserve the same protections as the rest of us, and that means monitoring for emerging contaminants statewide," said Assembly Health Committee Chair Richard N. Gottfried. "No one should have to wait any longer for comprehensive testing for these potentially dangerous chemicals.”

Maureen Cunningham, Senior Director for Clean Water at Environmental Advocates of New York stated, “No one in New York wants to drink contaminated water. Unbelievably, New York has now waited 1,001 days for a promised emerging contaminant monitoring list that is stalled in the New York State Department of Health. We are grateful for the leadership of Assembly Health Committee Chair Richard Gottfried – his legislation would test the drinking water of 2.5 million New Yorkers whose water has not been tested. We now need to act quickly to set strong drinking water standards for emerging contaminants and prevent these toxic chemicals from entering our water supplies in the first place.”

Alert Issued in NY Over Social Security Administration Call Scams


The New York State Division of Consumer Protection has issued a consumer alert regarding scammers impersonating employees from the Social Security Administration to steal personal information from unsuspecting victims.

In most cases, the caller requests personal information such as a Social Security Number, date of birth, mother's maiden name, and/or bank account information. As an excuse to ask for the information, the impersonator may claim that the Social Security Administration (SSA) “computers are down," or they may discuss enrollment in a Medicare prescription drug program.

“Scam artists are using official-sounding calls to try and scare individuals into sharing their personal information,” said New York State Secretary of State Rossana Rosado, who oversees the Division of Consumer Protection. “Government agencies do not typically call people with little or no warning asking for sensitive information or trying to get a payment over the phone. We urge New Yorkers: Do not give any sensitive information to unsolicited callers. Do not play their game.”

Consumers should not provide any information to these individuals as the purpose of the call is to steal identities and/or money from unsuspecting victims.

The scam employs two methodologies: live individuals posing as SSA employees or automated recordings stating, “Your Social Security Number has been ‘suspended’ for suspicion of illegal activity. Call this number immediately.”

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection, the Federal Trade Commission and Social Security Administration warn consumers to be suspicious of any calls requesting personal information and to take note of the following tips:

Confirm the caller. If an individual wants to check if there are any issues related to a Social Security Number, call the Social Security Administration directly at 1-800-772-1213 or go online at ssa.gov.

Don’t give the caller any information. Consumers should never give out or confirm sensitive information, including bank account, credit card, or Social Security Numbers over the phone unless they are completely sure they know who they are dealing with. If an individual gets such a call and is concerned, they should hang up and contact the government agency or company they are claiming to call from.

Don’t trust a name or number. Con artists will use official sounding names to try to seem legitimate. To make their call seem proper, scammers use technology to “spoof” their area code and phone number, so while it may seem to a consumer that they are getting a call from the Social Security Agency in Washington, DC, the call could very well be from anywhere in the world.

Government agencies do not ask for payment via gift cards. Gift cards allow scammers to get money without trace. Once an individual gives up a gift card number, the scam artist can take the full value without anyone knowing who they are. If someone on the phone asks an individual to buy a gift card and call them back with the number, it is likely a scam.

The New York State Division of Consumer Protection investigates Do Not Call violations and provides voluntary mediation between a consumer and a business when a consumer has been unsuccessful at reaching a resolution on their own. 

The Consumer Assistance Helpline 1-800-697-1220 is available Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm, excluding State Holidays, and consumer complaints can be filed at any time at www.dos.ny.gov/consumerprotection

The Division can also be reached via Twitter at @NYSConsumer or Facebook at www.facebook.com/nysconsumer.

Source: The New York State Division of Consumer Protection

House Speaker Weekly Briefing


At her weekly briefing on Capitol Hill, Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticizes President Trump’s threat to impose tariffs on Mexico, calling it “bad policy” and a "distraction "from the Mueller report. She also talks about pressure to impeach the president. 

Click here for video.

Source: C-SPAN

Rent Laws: Dozens Arrested at State Capitol as Debate Escalates

 
Protesters jammed hallways, blocked entrances and banged on the glass doors of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s office.

Click here for the report.

Source: The New York Times

‘Central Park Jogger‘ Supports City's Release of Case Records

Tricia Meili

A NY Daily News Exclusive: Hopes to Clear Police and
DA of Allegations They Railroaded the Accused Teens

Click here for the report.

Source: The New York Daily News 

Top Department of Justice Official Sits in on NYPD Chokehold Departmental Trial

 
Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Geddes was sitting in the NYPD department trial room Wednesday as the case against Police Officer Daniel Pantaleo continues.

Click here for the report.

Source: The New York Daily News 

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

The Difference Between Black Supremacy and White Supremacy


Black Supremacy

The following events, all of which occurred this week, and the people showcased are confirmation that Black supremacy has brought millions from all over the world together in celebration of life, the performing arts and professional sports.




White Supremacy

It has caused nothing but death, destruction and a dangerous divide in countries all over the world.

  

Enough said.

Ginni Thomas Plans New Conservative Supergroup to 'Protect President Trump'


With the help of a who’s who of conservative activists, the Supreme Court justice’s wife aims to open up a new front in America’s political wars.

Click here for the report. 

Source: The Intercept_