Saba Kennedy-Washington: Gone Too Soon

Former Huffington Post Contributor, Activist and Community Leader

Saba Kennedy-Washington was a writer, blogger, promotional marketing/sales professional and entrepreneur. Having the privilege of being raised in several continents, Africa, Europe and North America, she was the daughter of an African ambassador and mother -- married 52 years -- who led nurses at John F. Kennedy Hospital while fighting for equal opportunities in their native land of Liberia.

Her family migrated to America as result of a coup in her family's homeland. Thus, Kennedy-Washington understood the importance of democracy in the United States of America and the immigrant dream.

As a working mother, wife, daughter, sister, she involved herself with projects and causes that celebrated diversity, equality and family values. She was featured in "The Entrepreneurial Parent" (How to Earn Your Living from Home and Still Enjoy Your Family, Your Work and Your Life) and was also an active Board Member of "The Actor's Theatre of Charlotte" as well as "The Juneteenth Festival of the Carolinas", which celebrates universal freedom.

After the passing of her father, approximately six years ago, she once again picked up her pen and began sharing her insight with the world as Saba, Ink, using the tagline "The Pen Is Still Mightier than the Sword."

The creation of Saba, Ink was a direct result of the one-sided views often espoused through mainstream media. Her links were posted on popular websites like the Yahoo Contributors Network, The Huffington Post/OfftheBus Project (Citizen journalist/political project), GreasyGuide Charlotte (Urban Blog) and Jamati.com (Africa's Premiere Entertainment Portal), which aims to showcase the continent of Africa in unique and positive ways while combating classic stereotypes.

Kennedy-Washington was a graduate of Queens College of the City University of New York, where she majored in Communications and Media Arts. She worked under New York City's first African-American mayor, David Dinkins, and then New York City NAACP President Hazel Dukes.

Saba Kennedy-Washington died on May 31, 2012.

From The G-Man exists because Saba, who was one of my dearest friends, urged me to create an independent source for news and information back in 2009. I followed her advice, and amazing things have happened as a result.

In 2008, I conducted a no-holds-barred interview with this dynamic, outspoken and phenomenal woman, which focused on the selection of Sarah Palin as Senator John McCain's running mate on the Republican ticket. I would like to honor her memory and work by republishing the controversial, hard-hitting, one-on-one that showcased the brilliance and political savvy of Saba Kennedy-Washington.

‘Sarah Palin Can’t Compare to Hillary Clinton!’

Saba, Ink Blasts McCain’s Veep Choice

G-Man: Republican presidential candidate John McCain has selected Alaska governor Sarah Palin as his running mate. If you could use one word to describe her, what would it be and what is it about Palin that validates your description?

Saba: Well, when you look at the music used by the McCain campaign, Palin's external presentation, the response of the crowd, the fact that the announcement occurred one day after Barack's historic speech and that it took place on John McCain's 72nd birthday, I'd use two words: "Lois Lane". The announcement made it abundantly clear that Lois Lane came to save Superman.

G-Man: I would like to continue with this line of questioning because you don't appear to be happy with the selection. Are you saying that Palin would not be capable of serving as a Vice-President in any capacity?

Saba: It's not that I'm not happy with Palin's selection. Far be it from me to hate on a fellow "sistah" who's accomplishing big things and smashing through glass ceilings. She should be applauded and respected for all of her professional accomplishments while maintaining a family and marriage. Lord knows, it's not an easy task. I've been doing it for 17 years. With that said, once the initial shock subsided over McCain's selection of a virtual unknown, who on paper is even younger and has less experience than Barack Obama, I begin to break down the reasons as to why he chose Palin. Initially, I thought it was the fact that there is oil in Alaska that they might want to tap. I then considered the fact that it simply may have been another example of a man using a woman to reign in other women; those women being Hillary Clinton supporters.

G-Man: Which scenario seems more plausible to you, at this point?

Saba: I'm becoming convinced it's the latter. If that is in fact the case, then it is not only an insult to Palin, it would be an insult to women in general. It's as if McCain is implying, "Y'all want a woman, well here she is." This was very reminiscent of the Alan Keyes situation in Illinois when they placed him against Obama. "If y'all want a black guy, here's one." Furthermore, the selection just didn't come across as an honest and true effort to support women and their issues, and if Hillary Clinton had not gotten as far as she had as a candidate, Republicans might not have even considered a woman! That is what bothers me and other sisters about the selection.

G-Man: Published reports indicate Palin was elected governor in 2006 and was the youngest person, and the first woman, to be elected governor of Alaska. Before becoming governor, Palin served two terms on the Wasilla, Alaska, City Council from 1992 to 1996, was elected and re-elected mayor of Wasilla for two three-year terms in 1996 and 1999. McCain's selection makes her the first female vice presidential candidate of the Republican Party and only the second female vice presidential candidate representing a major political party. Given her remarkable rise to power, Republicans could make the argument that Palin is more qualified to be in White House than Senator Barack Obama? What is your response?

Saba: The Republicans are essentially going to make any argument that Barack Obama is less qualified to run the White House than their candidate. That is just the way debates go. At the convention, Bill Clinton indicated Republicans said the same thing about him when he ran, and his legacy speaks volumes in comparison to the last eight years. However, I do thank George Bush and Dick Cheney for their work because without it the current movement for change, whether it's Obama/Biden or McCain/Palin, would not be possible.

G-Man: (Smiling) I'm sure the President and Vice-President would take exception to that.

Saba: Finally, it is my belief that many worry McCain's age and seemingly failing health could place Palin a heartbeat away from presidency, and her lack of experience with global affairs could be something that we might have to contend with as a nation. If Senator Obama has been able to mobilize and energize both a national and international movement for democracy and change, I'd have to say that is the indication of a true leader. Moreover, shouldn't we be comparing her record to Joe Biden's and not Obama's? Is Biden not her cross-reference in this campaign?

G-Man: According to government reports posted online, Palin pushed for an ethics bill and got it passed. She killed numerous projects supported by fellow Republicans. She expressed support for the Gravina Island Bridge project, also known as "The Bridge to Nowhere", but as soon as it was touted as symbol of wasteful spending and federal funding was lost, Palin refused to close the $320 million gap with state money. She's also stood up and challenged some of the biggest oil companies in the country, while amassing an impressive track record of legislation involving the production of natural gas pipelines in Alaska. Palin appears to revel in the role of maverick. She's challenged her own party and stood up to big oil companies, which are reaping billions in profit, and is focusing on alternative solutions. Isn't that what America needs at this time?

Saba: I certainly agree that America cannot keep doing business as usual if we are to succeed as a nation. We are definitely at a crossroad and need to change course. The question is who can do this without alienating entire groups and demographics. Palin's work in Alaska appears exceptional. However, I don't believe Alaska is reflective of the many demographic groups in America, and around the world, that we currently need to work with to initiate change. Obama, based on his own heritage and upbringing, has been able to mobilize, inspire and speak to a larger demographic. He is a maverick in his own right. I'm not sure Sarah Palin can make that claim.

G-Man: Your point is well taken, but as they say numbers don't lie. A recent poll indicated Palin frequently had an approval rating above 90 percent in 2007. A poll published by Hays Research on July 28, 2008 showed Palin's approval rating at 80 percent. The former governor must have been doing something right in the state of Alaska to get such high ratings. If the good people of Alaska approve of her, what makes you think voters would be reluctant to embrace her or her policies?

Saba: Again, I refer to my previous response. No disrespect to Alaska, but with a population of just under 1 million and a global sense of urgency that will involve billions, with regard to trade, national security and a host of other issues, Palin's a bit of a hard sell for me this late in the campaign season.

G-Man: This election will present two firsts in American politics: the first African-American with a real chance to win the presidency and the first female vice-presidential nominee from the Republican Party. As a strong, independent and successful woman, much like Sarah Palin, don't you feel a sense of pride and accomplishment over the fact that a woman was selected instead of someone from the "old boys network"....even if it is Palin?

Saba: I have nothing but respect for the former governor. Still, I know there are women whose resumes rival Palin's and, quite frankly, to compare her work to that of Hillary Clinton is a bit of a stretch. Yes, women want to be represented. There is no question about that, but when we have someone represent us we want it to be a strong representative, not someone that will make people say "even if it is Palin". Similarly, I was proud when Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton ran for President. Nonetheless, I could not see myself voting for either simply because I didn't believe they were ready to lead the United States of America. The same holds true for Palin.

G-Man: Ever since McCain made the stunning announcement, political pundits and operatives, pollsters and news anchors from CNN to MSNBC have reported that many voters, and members of the Republican Party, are not happy with the veep choice. They cite the fact that Palin has virtually no experience in foreign policy and has only completed two years in her first term as governor. The same case was made earlier on against Barack Obama as a member of the Senate, by voters and those within the Democratic Party, but voters have since embraced him and now have the potential to put him in the White House. If you, or any member of the Democratic Party, believe Palin's lack of experience is an issue, isn't that a double-standard?

Saba: As Barack Obama has proven, it is the will of the people and theirs only that will determine the outcome. I am a strong believer in manifest destiny. If it is Palin's time and she can mobilize and rally her base, she will be a success. My father often said, "Man plans and God displans!" So, I guess in the next two months we'll see history in the making, one way or the other, right?

G-Man: What is your number one concern about having a Vice-President Palin in the White House?

Saba: The fact that she got to the White House as a result of Affirmative Action and a need for symbolism, as opposed to truly earning the right. She is a default selection. In other words, once she's gotten there, she will not truly be an empowered or powerful leader. Sarah Palin will be nothing more than a figure-head manufactured and controlled by the "old boys club" because of a professional deal she might have cut. By the way, Affirmative Action has not only benefitted African-Americans, as many in and outside of the mainstream media would have us believe? I'll say no more because that's a whole other issue entirely, G-Man. I thank you for your time and the insightful questions. May God bless America and its people, as we take on the challenge of restoring our nation one vote at a time! Hey? Isn't it the Republicans that have been saying that things are just fine in America? If they believe that, then why would McCain want to bring change to the country? Isn't that a sign of inexperience?! Just thinking out loud.

Rest in peace, Saba. Rest in peace. 

Politics in Action: H.R. 2578 and S.J. Res. 37

STATEMENT OF ADMINISTRATION POLICY

H.R. 2578 – Conservation and Economic Growth Act

(Rep. Denham, R-CA, and 4 cosponsors)

The Administration opposes H.R. 2578, which is an omnibus lands bill incorporating fourteen separate House bills.  The Administration has worked to protect and manage the responsible use of America's natural resources and to support and ensure that the Nation's spectacular landscapes, unique natural life, and cultural resources and icons endure for future generations.  The Administration is working, through balanced and community-based decision-making, to maximize the benefits of the outdoors for all Americans.  The Department of the Interior advises that hunting, fishing, and outdoor recreation alone contribute an estimated $730 billion to the economy each year.  Enactment of H.R. 2578 in its current form would not advance, and in many cases would set back, these priorities.

Overall, H.R. 2578 contains a number of provisions that would undermine the responsible balance of interests and considerations in the stewardship of the Nation's lands and natural resources.  Further, various provisions would disregard and shortchange public input on a range of community interests, including natural resource protections, and preclude agencies from considering less environmentally detrimental alternatives.  Most significantly, H.R. 2578 would:  (1) undermine recent months of productive talks on a revised proposal to satisfy Alaska Native land claims and consider the natural resource and other values of timberland in Alaska's Tongass National Forest; (2) reverse course on the science-based National Park Service plan, developed after a lengthy public engagement process, that provides an appropriate balance of off-road vehicle access and protection of sensitive seashore areas in North Carolina; (3) weaken important National Environmental Policy Act and public involvement provisions for actions affecting resources such as grazing on lands managed by the Department of the Interior; and (4) thwart successful efforts by agencies to collaborate on border security while protecting our natural and cultural resources on Federal lands along U.S. borders by waiving thirty-seven environmental and administrative laws.  All of these provisions present a false choice between natural resources protection and the economy or national security.

The Administration recognizes that portions of this multi-title legislation are noncontroversial; a few are unworkable as drafted, but many could be amended to address concerns, including those outlined in Executive branch testimonies delivered in congressional hearings over the past number of months.  Thus, the Administration urges the Congress to address these identified policy, programmatic, and management concerns, and looks forward to working with the Congress on them.

STATEMENT OF ADMINISTRATION POLICY

S.J. Res. 37 – Disapproving EPA's Mercury Air and Toxics Standards

(Sen. Inhofe, R-OK)

The Administration strongly opposes S.J. Res. 37, which would overturn long-overdue national clean air standards limiting power plant emissions of toxic air pollution, including mercury.  As a result, this resolution would cause substantial harm to public health and undermine our Nation's longstanding commitment to clean up pollution from power plants.

Since it was enacted in 1970 and amended in 1977 and 1990, each time with strong bipartisan support, the Clean Air Act (CAA) has improved the Nation's air quality and protected public health.  Since 1970, the economy has grown over 200 percent while emissions of key pollutants have decreased more than 60 percent.  More than forty years of clean air regulation has shown that a strong economy and strong environmental and public health protection go hand-in-hand.

S.J. Res. 37 would undermine more than forty years of CAA progress by blocking the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards, the first national standards to protect American families from harmful power plant emissions of mercury and other toxic air pollution like arsenic, acid gases, nickel, and chromium.  By addressing the largest remaining source of mercury emissions in the United States, these standards will reduce our children's exposure to this neurotoxicant which can impair their ability to think and learn.  Because technology to control toxics also reduces fine particle pollution, the standards will help America's children grow up healthier, preventing 130,000 cases of childhood asthma symptoms and over 6,000 cases of acute bronchitis among children each year.  EPA further estimates that emissions reductions resulting from meeting these standards will prevent as many as 11,000 avoidable premature deaths and 4,700 heart attacks, annually.  The annual value of these health benefits alone is estimated to be as much as $90 billion.  In addition, the standards will reduce the risk of numerous other non-monetized yet devastating health effects, including illnesses of the central nervous system, damage to kidneys, and cancer.

The Mercury and Air Toxics Standards will ensure that the Nation's power plants install modern, widely available technologies to limit harmful pollution – leveling the playing field for power plants that already have such controls in place.  The standards are achievable; pollution control equipment that can help meet them already is installed at more than half of the Nation's coal-fired power plants.  Numerous studies, including analysis by the Department of Energy, have projected that the standards can be met without adversely affecting the adequacy of electric generation resources in any region of the country.

Finally, if a rule is disapproved under the Congressional Review Act, an agency may not issue a rule that is “substantially the same.”  In this case, because EPA has adhered closely to its narrowly circumscribed authority under the CAA in promulgating these standards, the enactment of S.J. Res. 37 could effectively prevent EPA from ever limiting mercury and air toxics pollution from power plants.

If the President were presented with S.J. Res. 37, his senior advisors would recommend that he veto the resolution.

Top Newsy Headlines: Greece Close to Coalition Deal

Sources:euronewsAlJazeeraKREMWPIX 

By Harumendhah Helmy
Anchor: Logan Tittle
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

Texas Teacher Fired for Having Students Hit Alleged Bully

Sources:ABCNBCTheOrangeCountyRegister 

By Jiaxi Lu
Anchor: Christina Hartman
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

G20 Summit: World Leaders Call for Action in Eurozone Crisis

Sources:ITVBBCSkyNewsTheIndependent 

By Christina Hartman
Anchor: Christina Hartman
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

Mladic War Crimes Trial Postponed Again

Sources:ForeignPolicyFinancialTimesBBC 
Sky News 

By Ferdous Al-Faruque
Anchor: Christina Hartman
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

Aljazeera's Top News Stories

Civilians 'Trapped in Besieged Homs'

Thousands of civilians are believed to be trapped in Syria's central city of Homs, as government forces continue their heavy bombardment of the city, the UN said. Both government forces and opposition fighters appeared to be digging in, preventing residents from accessing food and medicine. UN humanitarian officials say they are providing food to half a million people in Syria, but not in Homs, which means many there are desperate for food, clean water and medical help. Al Jazeera's Jane Arraf reports.

Video courtesy of Aljazeera English.

Burkina Faso's Sahel Parched by Drought

It is the third drought to hit the West African region in less than ten years. More than 10 million people were affected by the previous drought in 2010, mostly in Niger and Chad. This year, the UN says up to 19 million people are at risk of going hungry. That is because of a poor harvest, rising food prices and the conflict in Mali, which is forcing thousands of people from their homes. Al Jazeera's Laura Kyle reports from Burkina Faso.

Video courtesy of Aljazeera English.

Campaigning Kicks Off for Libya Elections

Campaigning for Libya's first national election in a generation kicked off ahead of July 7 polls to choose an national assembly which will re-draw the autocratic system of rule put in place by ousted leader Muammar Gaddafi. In a statement published on its website on Monday, Libya's electoral commission said candidates will have 18 days to campaign, from June 18 until July 5, with 2,501 independents and 1,206 political association candidates eligible to stand. Al Jazeera's Omar Al Saleh met some of the main candidates in Tripoli.

Video courtesy of Aljazeera English.

Ahead of G20 Meeting, Russia Sends Warships to Syria

Sources:CNNGuardianNewYorkTimes
CBCNewsFoxNewsForbesRussiaToday 

By Matthew Picht
Anchor: Lauren Gores
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

G20 Summit to Tackle Eurozone Crisis

Sources:BBCWallStreetJournalTheEconomicTimes
CNNFoxNewsGuardian 

By Steven Sparkman
Anchor: Megan Murphy
Video courtesy of Newsy.com

Cuomo, NYSCOPBA Reach Tentative Agreement

No Deal Had Been Reached in Nine Years 

Governor Andrew Cuomo and Donn Rowe, President of the New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, Inc. (NYSCOPBA), today announced a contract agreement between the state and the union representing New York State's correction officers.

This is the first negotiated agreement between the state and NYSCOPBA since 1999. NYSCOPBA and New York State were unable to agree on a contract for 9 years prior to this agreement.

The agreement resolves outstanding wage and contractual issues dating to 2009 and follows the pattern of recently negotiated contracts.

The contract is tentative pending ratification by NYSCOPBA membership. 

"By cooperating and collaborating on these negotiations, we have been able to reach an agreement on a contract that takes into account the fiscal realities of our state while maintaining the rights and benefits of these law enforcement members who work each day to protect New Yorkers," said Governor Cuomo.

"NYSCOPBA recognized the need for shared sacrifice in this agreement, and I thank President Rowe for his leadership."

Donn Rowe, President, New York State Correctional Officers and Police Benevolent Association, Inc. (NYSCOPBA), said, "NYSCOPBA members have some of the most dangerous jobs in New York, and they have never asked for more than their fair share. On behalf of the hard-working NYSCOPBA membership, I want to thank Governor Cuomo and his staff for the respectful tone of these negotiations, and I want to credit the Governor for acknowledging the difficult job our correction members have. They perform a valuable service to protect all New Yorkers every day."

NYSCOPBA’s Security Services unit is composed of correction officers and sergeants assigned to prisons in the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.

Members of NYSCOPBA have not had a contract since 2008 and opted out of arbitration for the years 2009 through 2011.

The agreed upon contract will save approximately $106 million from employee health benefits over the term of the agreement. In addition, the agreement will save $50 million from the Deficit Reduction Program covering the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 fiscal years.

Highlights of the agreement, which will require ratification by the NYSCOPBA membership, include:

Zero percent wage increases for the three years 2011-2013, and 2% increases in 2014 and 2015.

A $1,000 retention bonus paid out $775 in 2013 and $225 in 2014.

Deficit Reduction Leave of nine days (unpaid leave).

One retroactive payment that is scheduled to be paid before the end of the calendar year, only if possible.

Health insurance premium share increase by 6% for both individual and families, making the share 16% for individuals and 31% for dependent premiums.

Officers will receive layoff protection identical to that provided to other unions in labor agreements negotiated since last year. Workforce reductions due to management decisions to close or restructure facilities authorized by legislation, SAGE recommendations or material or unanticipated changes in the state's fiscal circumstances are not covered by this limitation.

Image courtesy of http://www.nyscopbaonlinestore.org/.

Con Edison: 'Beware of Scammers!'

Energy Company Reps Swarming Brooklyn, Manhattan and Queens with False Claims and Engaging in Questionable Acts

On three separate occasions, employees allegedly affiliated with an energy company known as IDT Energy have appeared at From The G-Man headquarters after being told the news and information site was not interested in their services.

During each encounter, the often aggressive and rude representatives indicated that they would be able to help cut the office’s monthly energy costs if it switched from Con Edison to IDT Energy.

In the latest incident, the representatives were insistent that they be shown the Con Edison bill in order to illustrate how the savings would be broken down. They were immediately asked, once again, to leave and never return.

After conducting an investigation on the company’s background, From The G-Man unearthed some very alarming and disturbing information about IDT and other so-called “Green Dot” companies.

In 2009, New York Post reporter Angela Montefinise wrote a story entitled “Scammers Power Sting”. The article notes the following:

“Big Apple homeowners are getting zapped by a shocking door-to-door scam.

“In an attempt to grab Con Ed customers, energy service companies are ringing bells in Brooklyn and Queens offering drastically cheaper rates for delivering electricity.

“The only problem is the salespeople often lie, forge and misrepresent themselves to do it, according to victims. “It’s very disturbing," said City Councilman Bill de Blasio (D-Brooklyn), whose office is fielding persistent complaints and has created a hot line for victims.

“The scam is simple: Salesmen knock on the door and ask for the homeowner's Con Ed bill. Sometimes the salesmen identify themselves properly, but often they imply or say they're from Con Ed.

“After looking at the bill and pointing out high charges, they quote a false rate to entice the homeowner to switch or take down personal information to facilitate an unauthorized switch.”

From The G-Man recently contacted Con Edison and spoke with D. Joy Faber, media spokesperson for the company, about IDT and other companies that are attempting to get New Yorkers, as well as people across the country, to change their energy provider.

“We are well-aware of the complaints against IDT and similar companies operating throughout the New York City area,” said Faber.

“Con Edison is warning its customers and other members of the public to be vigilant in protecting themselves against several types of scams that have been reported to the company. Con Edison places the safety of the public first and is working with authorities to catch those who have been trying to pull the scams.”

In addition to the warning statement, Faber provided From The G-Man with a listing of safety measures that the public can take to thwart scammers.

In particular, Con Edison advises people to guard against the following:

E-mail viruses – Con Edison has received reports of e-mails that appear to be from Con Edison and contain a ‘zip file’ that may create a computer virus. The “From” field of the e-mail reads “no-reply-billing@coned.com” or “no-reply-billing@conedison.com.” Do not open or forward these e-mails. File a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.

Green Dot scams – Customers have reported receiving calls from someone instructing them to buy a Green Dot Money Pak in order to pay their utility bill. Con Edison does not accept payments via Green Dot Money Paks.

Be alert if anyone asks you by telephone to arrange for pre-paid credit cards as payment for your bill, or to send money to an out-of-state address. Con Edison does not authorize these payments. Never arrange payment or divulge account or personal information over the telephone, unless you are certain you are speaking to a Con Edison representative.

Imposters - Any Con Edison employee arriving at your home or business to read your meter will have a visible photo identification badge. Feel free to ask or check for identification before allowing anyone into your home or business. If you feel the person at your door may be an imposter, you can call 1-800-75CONED (1-800-752-6633) to check.

From The G-Man contacted IDT Energy to obtain more information on the company, its executive members, and to inquire about its method of operation in New York City and other states.

A man who would only describe himself as a "customer service representative" indicated that a corporate official would reply to our inquiries in 48 hours. Five days later, no one from the company has issued a response or contacted this news site to discuss the matter.  

“Anyone who feels they may have been a target of an imposter or Green Dot scam should call their local police department. They may also call Con Edison,” concluded Faber. 

Image courtesy of http://www.clker.com.

Bill to Prohibit Internet Access to Child Pornography

Skelos: "Viewing Child Pornography is a Despicable Act"

New York State legislators have reached an agreement on a bill that will more effectively prohibit internet access of child pornography.

‪The legislation would amend New York's Penal Law to prohibit individuals from knowingly accessing, with the intent of viewing, child pornography on the internet.

Currently, under New York law, an individual who views child pornography on a website where the images become automatically embedded in a computer does not "possess" child pornography. This legislation closes that loophole.

If enacted in New York, if an individual purposefully accesses a website, intending to view child pornography, he or she will be committing a class E felony.

‪
As a result of this legislation, child pornography can never be legally possessed in New York State.

‪"We must, under any circumstance, put the safety and protection of our children first by banning any and all forms of child pornography," said Governor Andrew Cuomo.

"This legislation closes a loophole that has allowed predators to go unprosecuted and unpunished. That will no longer be an option. Together with my colleagues in the Senate and Assembly, we are taking every precaution to ensure that our children are protected and that justice is served. I thank Majority Leader Skelos and Speaker Silver for their leadership on this issue as we continue to work toward making New York a safer state, especially for our children."

‪
Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver agree.

 “Viewing child pornography is a despicable act. This legislation will help protect children by imposing tough new penalties on people who view or possess child pornography. I applaud Senator Golden for his leadership on this issue which is at the top of the Senate’s criminal justice agenda, and I thank Governor Cuomo for working with us to achieve a bipartisan agreement,” said Skelos.

‪ "This new law makes clear that there is no acceptable reason for anyone to view or possess child pornography. The safety of children is paramount and we will do everything in our power to rid us of the scourge of child pornography. I thank the Governor for his efforts to close this terrible loophole in the law," Speaker Silver added.

Senator Marty Golden, co-sponsor of the bill, noted, "Today, just a month from the time that citizens of New York and our nation were shocked and offended by a loophole that prevented the appropriate prosecution of individuals who view child pornography, we have effectively changed the law. New York will now conform with federal regulations and rightly classify viewing child pornography as a crime. I commend Governor Andrew Cuomo and my colleagues in the State Legislature because our children, families and all citizens will be safer because of these efforts."

Assemblyman Joe Lentol, co-sponsor of the bill, stated, “When it comes to protecting children, we can’t allow loopholes in the law. Viewing or possessing child pornography is a crime and this legislation makes sure the tools needed to prosecute it are available. This bill is expected to pass this week.”

‪In 1996, New York state enacted a law prohibiting the possession of child pornography. However, in a case decided on May 8, 2012, the New York Court of Appeals held that existing law did not prohibit “accessing and viewing” child pornography on the internet.

The court specifically invited the state to amend the Penal Law to criminalize accessing child pornography with the intent to view it on the internet.

The administration believes this bill would address that glaring loophole.

Image courtesy of http://www.allfreeclipart.com.

$72.9 Million in Grants for 10 NYC Hospitals, Nursing Homes

Cuomo: "We Have Already Taken Important Steps Toward Reducing Costs and Improving Care for Patients"

A grant totaling $72.9 million has been awarded to ten hospitals and nursing homes in New York City, continuing efforts to transform the state’s health care system to improve patient care, reduce costs, and ensure that all New Yorkers have access to quality treatment.

The grants are made available through New York State's Health Care Efficiency and Affordability Law (HEAL NY).

Statewide, the $301.1 million in HEAL NY grants will help 40 hospitals and nursing homes across the state improve primary and community-based care, eliminate excess bed capacity, and reduce over-reliance on inpatient care in hospitals and nursing homes.

Included in these grants, $5.4 million in discretionary HEAL NY funding is being awarded to St. John's Episcopal Hospital to expand services after the recent closure of Peninsula General Hospital. 

"As a result of the hard work of the Medicaid Redesign Team and our actions to transform the state's health care system, we have already taken important steps toward reducing costs and improving care for patients," said Governor Andrew Cuomo.

"These grants to hospitals and nursing homes in New York City will help our health care facilities deliver better quality care in a more efficient and cost effective manner so all New Yorkers have access to the best care possible when it is needed."

The awards are allocated through the New York State Department of Health (DOH) and the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) and are part of nearly $3 billion in funding that has been invested in health care reform through 20 separate HEAL NY phases over the past seven years.

The grants announced today will help implement recommendations from Governor Cuomo's Medicaid Redesign Team, including enabling health care facilities to deliver more efficient, higher quality care through restructuring, merging, and realigning operations. 

Additionally, the awards will help develop collaborative projects among health care providers and will support capital projects, such as the conversion of hospital inpatient space to outpatient and ambulatory care and inpatient nursing home capacity to other less-restrictive forms of long-term care. 

DOH received a diverse group of applications from throughout the state.

Additional funding will be made available in future rounds to support additional projects including efforts to help develop a high-quality, financially secure and sustainable health system in Brooklyn.

"I commend these hospitals and nursing homes for their resourcefulness and effectiveness in reconfiguring their beds and services to achieve greater efficiency and to deliver care most appropriate to address the identified needs in their communities. These projects represent prime examples of how institutions - large and small alike - can leverage the opportunities presented by a health care system that is moving towards greater integration of services and new models of patient-centered care," said State Health Commissioner Nirav R. Shah, M. D., M.P.H.

DASNY President Paul T. Williams, Jr. noted, "DASNY is committed to working with Governor Cuomo, the Department of Health, and our health care partners across the State to provide the best possible outcome for New Yorkers. These grants will support improvements and collaborations that will strengthen services and deliver care that will benefit our communities." 

"This funding will raise the quality of care for health systems statewide. Beyond improving infrastructure and efficiency, the broader impact of this funding is the future health of our state. Across New York City, hospitals and health care providers will see almost $73 million in HEAL NY funding, a substantial investment that stands to make a major impact on our communities and neighborhoods," added Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver.

Senator Andrew Lanza said, "I am pleased to report that Carmel Richmond Nursing Home and the Richmond University Medical Center have been awarded grants under the HEAL NY Program which supports transformational improvements to health care facilities across the State. These grants are very much needed and will improve healthcare services on Staten Island. I thank Governor Cuomo for working with my office and for his leadership and dedication in delivering these grants for the people of Staten Island."

Following is a list of HEAL NY awards for New York City:

HHC Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center $ 2,124,850
Kingsbrook Jewish Medical Center/Brookdale University 
Medical Center $ 21,425,000
The Brooklyn Hospital Center/Interfaith Hospital $ 1,000,000
St. Barnabas Hospital $ 5,100,000
Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center $ 2,851,044
Montefiore Medical Center $ 20,000,000
HHC Harlem Hospital Center $ 3,858,653
Carmel Richmond Nursing Home, Inc. $ 1,095,030
Richmond University Medical Center $ 10,000,000
St. John's Episcopal Hospital $ 5,357,680

Image courtesy of http://www.nifter.com.

'African-American Experience in New York' at Medgar Evers College

Institution Will be the First of Several Stops as the Exhibit Travels Around the State

Governor Cuomo today announced the opening of the traveling African American Experience in New York exhibit at Medgar Evers College.

The exhibit, which had been on display in the War Room of the State Capitol since February, highlights the same themes and people who were honored during Black History Month.

"This exhibit helps tell the story of some of New York State's most prominent African American citizens and honors the contributions they made in advancing the cause of equal rights and fair treatment for all Americans," Governor Cuomo said.

"Giving people from around the state the opportunity to visit the exhibit in person will be a chance for all New Yorkers to learn more about the state's significant contribution to African American heritage and history."

After an unveiling ceremony in February, Governor Cuomo directed that the exhibit travel around the state so all New Yorkers would have the opportunity to learn more about the individuals the display highlighted.

While the exhibit was on display at the Capitol, individuals unable to visit Albany were able to virtually explore the material on the Governor’s website.

Allowing people to visit a traveling version of the exhibit will enhance the learning experience and afford New Yorkers a chance to learn more about African American history in New York. 

The unveiling of the traveling exhibit will be done in conjunction with Juneteenth celebrations occurring around the State. Juneteenth honors African Americans’ heritage and their struggle against slavery and for equal rights. Its origins can be traced back to the end of the Civil War.

In September of 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that any slave living in one of the Confederate states was considered free. It went into effect in January of 1863.

Unfortunately, many slaves, especially those living in the deep-south, were unaware of the Proclamation and the freedom it granted them until Union soldiers occupied those areas during the late spring and early summer of 1865.

The last place to be emancipated was Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865. Because of the length of time it took for many slaves to be freed, African American communities today celebrate Emancipation over a number of days, ranging from June 10th through the 19th.

"I would like to thank Governor Cuomo for choosing Medgar Evers College as the first site for the traveling ‘African-American Experience in New York’ exhibit. The history of the struggle for equality, as told through the life stories of these remarkable men and women, should serve as an inspiration for the students who attend class here. Hopefully, they will discover, through their academic studies, the need to continue that struggle for justice in the same manner and with the same zeal that Medgar Evers showed before his Assassination," said Dr. William Pollard, President of Medgar Evers College.

Assembly Member Nick Perry added, "This exhibition, Juneteenth-The African Experience, will provide a great opportunity for Brooklynites, both young and old, to join in the celebration of a freedom which African-Americans fought for and earned, many having made the ultimate sacrifice. As Juneteenth represents the day when the last slaves in the US were freed after emancipation, today serves as a vital and poignant reminder of our history, and represents the powerful resolve and unrelenting spirit of our ancestors."

The exhibit will remain at Medgar Evers College through the summer.

Low Expectations Ahead of New Round of Iran Nuclear Talks

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By Harumendhah Helmy
Anchor: Christina Hartman
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Man With 'Locked-In Syndrome' Pleads Right to Die on Twitter

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By Lyndsey Garza
Anchor: Lauren Zima
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Ron Paul Sweeps Iowa Delegates: What it Means

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Taikonauts Reach Chinese Space Station

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Philippines Fights Flooding with Recycling

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ECOWAS Plans to Send Troops to Azawad

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