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Mondaire Jones & Others Slam Mike Lawler For Voting For Extreme Right-Wing Speaker Who Supported Criminalizing Gay Sex

AJ Woodson
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Mondaire Jones & Others Slam Mike Lawler For Voting For Extreme Right-Wing Speaker Who Supported Criminalizing Gay Sex

SLEEPY HOLLOW, NY – Last week, Republican Mike Lawler “proudly” voted for Mike Johnson to be Speaker of the House. Mike Johnson has a deplorable history of supporting anti-LGBTQ+ policies, including criminalizing gay sex and calling homosexuality “inherently unnatural” and a “dangerous lifestyle.” Today, Mondaire Jones, who made history in 2021 as the nation’s first openly gay Black member of Congress, alongside the Human Rights Campaign, LGBTQ Victory Fund, and Equality PAC, strongly condemned Mike Lawler for his support of a right-wing extremist as Speaker of the House. With votes like this, it’s no wonder Roll Call and Daily Kos have named Mike Lawler the second-most vulnerable Republican in the House.

“It is absolutely despicable that Mike Lawler voted for Mike Johnson to be Speaker,” Mondaire Jones said. “Mike Johnson built a legal career in Louisiana opposing the basic civil rights and civil liberties of the LGBTQ+ community. Last fall, he even introduced a national “Don’t Say Gay” bill. Johnson is an election denier who was an architect of House Republican efforts to overturn the 2020 election, and he is an extremist who supports a national abortion ban and wants to cut Social Security and Medicare. Lawler’s vote makes clear that while he likes to masquerade as a moderate on television, he is a reliable vote for the extreme MAGA Republicans. Lawler’s vote for Johnson does not represent the values of the Lower Hudson Valley, and I am determined to oust him from Congress next November and give New Yorkers the representation they deserve. It’s time to end Republican chaos in Washington and get back to work to lower costs for Lower Hudson Valley residents, protect Social Security and Medicare, stop Republicans from banning abortion, and get assault weapons off our streets.”

“Mike Lawler’s vote for the most anti-equality Speaker in history is a stain on his already troubling record and yet another example of how out-of-touch he is with the people of NY-17,” said Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson. “Speaker Johnson is an election-denying, anti-LGBTQ+ extremist who has built a career on trying to erase our community from society—and Lawler gave his agenda a stamp of approval last week. The people of NY-17 deserve a leader who reflects their values, not a politician willing to hand the keys of government to the MAGA fringe.”

“Mike Johnson prides himself on discrimination and hatred for LGBTQ+ people, dedicating most of his career to opposing our basic rights. He introduced a federal “Don’t Say Gay” bill, is the current sponsor of three national abortion bans, is against marriage equality and wants to ban lifesaving gender-affirming care. By casting his ballot for Rep. Johnson, Representative Mike Lawler has made his anti-LGBTQ, anti-choice views very clear. Polling shows voters favor pro-equality and pro-choice legislation—these extremist votes will undoubtedly have consequences on Election Day,” Sean Meloy, Vice President of Political Programs at the LGBTQ Victory Fund, said.

“The House GOP has not only elected as Speaker one of the most extreme members of Congress but also one of the most bigoted. And Mike Lawler’s vote to elect Mike Johnson proves that he is not the moderate he portrays himself to be. If Mike Lawler was interested in standing up for civil rights and individual freedoms, he would have flatly rejected Johnson’s nomination. Instead, he paved the way for Johnson, leading to the most homophobic Speaker ever elected in history. New Yorkers can’t trust Lawler to fight for them. That is why it is critical we elect Mondaire Jones to Congress,” Jeff Larivee, Executive Director of Equality PAC, stated.

Jones and Lawler may face off in one of the most competitive races of the 2024 cycle, but first Jones has to face off with MaryAnn Carr and Liz Whitmer Gereghty in the Democratic primary. Cook Political Report, Inside Elections, and Sabato’s Crystal Ball all rate the New York congressional race as a “toss-up.”

Westchester County tells Correction Officers to kiss their A– by Only Offering a 2-year Contract for 2020 and 2021

DAMON K JONES
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Westchester County tells Correction Officers to kiss their A– by Only Offering a 2-year Contract for 2020 and 2021

In recent county contract negotiations with the Westchester County Correction Officers Association (COBA), the George Latimer administration offered a mere 2-year deal, providing a 3% increase for 2020 and another 3% for 2021, totaling just 6%.

However, County Executive George Latimer’s statement on the Westchester County website claims that the agreement with the District Attorney’s Investigators PBA aligns with other union agreements. This contract spans five years, from 2020 to 2024, with increases as follows: 3% in 2020, 3% in 2021, 2% in 2022, 2% in 2023, and 2.75% in 2024.

The question arises: Why have the hardworking correction officers been overlooked for 2022, 2023, and 2024? What explanation does the George Latimer Administration have for this?

We must raise a clear and compelling question: Why are hardworking Correction Officers being neglected? Westchester County proudly touts its Department of Correction as the only nationally accredited county law enforcement department by the American Correction Association (ACA). Meanwhile, the County Police do not have national accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA). These facts demand an explanation for why the Latimer Administration would disregard dedicated Correction Officers.

Adding insult to injury, as per the County Executive’s own police review report, Westchester County Correction Officers are not only better trained than County Police in de-escalation and Mental Health observation but are still being denied the same respect as other unions with fair wages.

To be crystal clear, during the COVID-19 pandemic, while most county departments were conducting Zoom meetings from home, County Police were largely inactive, and District Attorney Investigators stayed home due to closed courts. The undeniable reality is that the entire county government shut down, with one exception—the county jail.

In stark contrast, Westchester County Correction Officers diligently reported to work each day during the pandemic inside a jail with inadequate ventilation. They frequently endured exhausting 16-hour shifts, five days a week, often sacrificing precious time with their families. These officers knew they’d be away from home for a grueling 16 hours every day of the week.

This is the gratitude George Latimer offers to Correction Officers who sacrificed so much during COVID-19 and continue to face COVID-19 challenges in 2023. Quarantines persist in county jail housing areas, and officers continue to wear masks to protect against this deadly virus.

There exists a glaring lack of respect for a department that has historically employed more Black men than any other civil service department in the County. Moreover, the Department of Corrections has a track record of promoting Black individuals up to the commissioner level. Despite celebrating this advancement in Black leadership, the County fails to recognize the same value regarding the salaries of their white counterparts in other county departments.

The county’s statement claims commitment to the unions and public safety, with confidence in reaching an agreement with the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association and the Superior Officers Association by the end of next week. However, offering Correction Officers a two-year contract won’t suffice. We see through this disrespect.

This disingenuous disparity raises severe concerns about equality and fairness within the County. Hardworking and highly-trained Corrections Officers deserve equitable treatment and compensation for their invaluable contributions to the community. The County must address this issue transparently and rectify the pay discrepancy to demonstrate proper respect and appreciation for the Corrections Officers’ dedication and professionalism.

If George Latimer genuinely believes in equality, it is hypocrisy to use contract negotiations to perpetuate inequity and bias against better-trained, predominantly Black and Brown Correction Officers while favoring other primarily white unions.

This serves as a clear warning to county elected officials. Westchester County Corrections boasts the largest law enforcement union in the county, with close to 750 members, and there are more retirees than active in the New York Metro area. We will not tolerate disrespect from elected officials who have never worked in jail and disregard our sacrifices and hard work. We are prepared to take action at the ballot box at the next County Executive election rather than tolerate continued disrespect.

Greenburgh Town Clerk Candidate Lisa Maria Nero Interview

AJ Woodson
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Greenburgh Town Clerk Candidate Lisa Maria Nero Interview

Greenburgh Democratic Committee-endorsed candidate for Greenburgh Town Clerk Lisa Maria Nero drops by Black Westchester, Wednesday, November 1, 2023, to tell why she thinks she is the best candidate for the job.

You Can’t Have a Single Mindset in a Married House

DAMON K JONES
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You Can’t Have a Single Mindset in a Married House

Marriage is a complex journey that involves two individuals with unique backgrounds and personalities coming together. A healthy and successful marriage often hinges on adopting a “marriage mindset” or a “we mindset,” which prioritizes the well-being of the relationship as a whole. In this essay, we explore the significance of this mindset and its key aspects that contribute to a strong and enduring marital union.

Contrary to some mainstream media messages that promote a “single mindset” over a marriage mindset, focusing solely on personal interests in a marriage can lead to various complications and challenges.

While it’s important for individuals in a marriage to maintain their individuality and pursue personal interests, an exclusive focus on personal needs and desires can hinder the relationship’s growth and health. Here are some complications that may arise from having a single mindset in marriage.

A single mindset, where personal interests take precedence over the partnership, can lead to a cascade of complications in a marriage. These include poor communication, a lack of collaboration, escalated conflicts, emotional disconnect, and neglected relationship needs. When spouses prioritize their desires over the relationship, misunderstandings and conflicts become more frequent, emotional bonds weaken, and critical aspects of the marriage, such as emotional, physical, and intimacy needs, may be disregarded.

Here are some complications that may arise from a single mindset in marriage:

Communication Breakdown: A single relationship mindset may result in poor communication between spouses. When individuals prioritize their personal interests over the relationship, they may be less inclined to engage in open and effective communication. Failure to communicate can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and emotional distance between partners.

Lack of Collaboration: In a single relationship mindset, spouses may be less likely to collaborate on important decisions or shared responsibilities. They may make unilateral choices without considering the impact on their partner or the relationship. This lack of collaboration can lead to feelings of exclusion and resentment.

Conflict Escalation: When both partners or one focuses solely on their own needs and desires, conflicts may escalate more easily. Disagreements can become heated and adversarial as each spouse defends their interests. Finding common ground or compromise can lead to persistent conflict and a deteriorating relationship.

Emotional Disconnect: A single relationship mindset may create an emotional disconnect between spouses. When personal interests take precedence, emotional support and connection may wane. Emotional disconnect can lead to feelings of loneliness and dissatisfaction within the marriage.

Neglected Relationship Needs: A partnership mindset recognizes the importance of prioritizing the relationship’s needs. In contrast, a single relationship mindset may lead to spouses failing the emotional, physical, and intimacy needs of the marriage. Neglecting these needs can erode marital satisfaction and lead to feelings of neglect or unhappiness.

Resentment and Frustration: Over time, a spouse with a single mindset may feel frustrated and resentful if they perceive their partner is not reciprocating their efforts or prioritizing the marriage. This resentment can create a toxic atmosphere in the marriage.

Infidelity: In many cases, individuals with a single relationship mindset may be more susceptible to infidelity. If they feel unfulfilled within the marriage and prioritize personal desires, they may seek emotional or physical satisfaction outside the relationship. Infidelity can be highly detrimental to the marriage and may lead to divorce.

Such an approach can also negatively impact children in the marriage, leading to emotional distress and confusion. In contrast, a partnership mindset that prioritizes the well-being of the relationship as a whole is essential for a healthy and fulfilling marriage.

A marriage mindset revolves around the idea that the relationship is a shared endeavor requiring both individuals to participate in its growth and sustenance actively. This mindset transcends the limitations of a “single mindset,” which primarily focuses on individual needs and desires.

Critical Aspects of a Marriage Mindset

Open and Effective Communication: A cornerstone of a partnership mindset is open and effective communication. Couples prioritize meaningful conversations, expressing thoughts, feelings, and concerns honestly and respectfully. This fosters understanding, empathy, and connection, enabling couples to navigate conflicts and make informed decisions.

Shared Goals and Aspirations: Partners in a partnership-oriented marriage establish shared goals, such as raising a family, financial stability, and future planning. These objectives provide a sense of purpose and direction, allowing couples to work together toward a shared vision.

Willingness to Compromise and Adapt: A partnership mindset involves a readiness to compromise and adapt. Partners understand the importance of adjusting personal preferences to maintain relationship harmony and prevent unnecessary conflicts.

Emotional Support and Connection:  Emotional support and connection are vital. Partners create a nurturing environment where they can express emotions, vulnerabilities, and joys. This emotional bond strengthens marital connection, fostering intimacy and trust.

Shared Responsibilities: Sharing responsibilities within the household, childcare, and other aspects of married life is crucial. Couples work together to manage daily affairs, ensuring a balanced distribution of tasks and preventing one partner from feeling overwhelmed.

In addition to benefiting the spouses involved, a married mindset positively impacts children within the family unit. Children learn valuable lessons about healthy relationships, emotional security, conflict resolution, empathy, self-esteem, and positive expectations of relationships from their parents’ interactions and marital dynamics.

A marriage mindset is crucial for a strong and enduring union. It fosters effective communication, shared goals, adaptability, emotional support, and responsibilities. Contrasting with a single mindset, which can lead to complications and challenges, a partnership-oriented approach contributes to a fulfilling and harmonious marriage that benefits both spouses and the well-being of their children. Recognizing the importance of a marriage mindset and actively cultivating it is essential for building a lasting marital bond that prioritizes the relationship’s well-being.

If you encounter challenges related to your mindsets within your relationship, seeking counseling is always advisable.

Cultivating Black Love: Habits for Stronger Marriages

DAMON K JONES
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Cultivating Black Love: Habits for Stronger Marriages

In recent years, marriage within the Black community has faced substantial challenges, with high divorce rates casting a shadow on the promise of enduring love and commitment. While the complexities of modern relationships cannot be solely attributed to divorce rates, these statistics undeniably shape the landscape of Black marriages and the survival of Black communities.

The Stark Divorce Statistics

The numbers concerning divorce rates among Black couples are alarming. Multiple studies reveal that the divorce rate among Black marriages in the United States surpasses that of other racial and ethnic groups. This stark reality has sparked discussions about why Black unions appear to be more susceptible to dissolution and how this affects the presence or absence of love within these relationships.

The Path to Healing and Growth

Embarking on the journey of counseling is not a sign of weakness but rather an act of courage and commitment to your relationship. It’s an investment in your future together, a way to rekindle the love that brought you together in the first place.

In the quest to strengthen Black Love, it’s crucial to acknowledge and confront a challenging reality: Black couples are among the least likely to seek counseling despite having one of the highest divorce rates. The hesitation to seek professional help can be attributed to various factors, including cultural stigma, historical mistrust, and the need for broader awareness.

Seeking counseling when you feel your relationship needs help is a pivotal chapter in the story of Black Love. It’s a proactive step toward understanding, healing, and growth. By embracing professional guidance, you can overcome obstacles, reignite the flames of love, and build a relationship that thrives in the face of life’s challenges. Remember, there is strength in seeking help, and it can lead to a happier and more loving partnership.

Shifting the Focus

It’s crucial to recognize that not all Black couples in happy marriages possess a secret formula for sustaining their bliss. They didn’t necessarily hail from perfect families or enjoy flawless childhoods, and their compatibility isn’t the sole driver of their marital satisfaction. Even shared values and goals do not guarantee relationship success. Instead, Black Love thrives on the smaller, everyday habits that wield considerable influence.

Rather than dwelling on the detrimental habits that can fracture Black marriages, let’s spotlight the constructive habits that keep them strong. Here are five essential habits for a fulfilling marriage:

  1. Benefit of the Doubt: Extend the benefit of the doubt to your spouse in every circumstance, even when they inadvertently hurt you emotionally. It’s natural for couples to encounter moments of anger, insecurity, and miscommunication. By believing in your partner’s good intentions, you can navigate these challenges more positively, avoiding personalization and recognizing that their actions were likely unintentional.
  2. Daily Compliments: Cultivate the habit of offering sincere compliments to your spouse each day. Compliments not only boost your partner’s self-esteem but also create a more positive atmosphere within your relationship. These heartfelt affirmations can have a lasting impact, making your spouse feel deeply valued and understood.
  3. Quality Time: Prioritize quality time spent together. Carving out moments for each other is essential for building a harmonious relationship. Regularly dedicating a few hours each week to connect, communicate, and share intimate moments strengthens the foundation of your marriage.
  4. Express Gratitude: A simple “thank you” can work wonders in expressing appreciation and making your partner feel respected and cherished. In many cases, demonstrating gratitude can be even more powerful than saying, “I love you.”
  5. Focus on Strengths: Shift your focus away from weaknesses and flaws and instead concentrate on your partner’s positive qualities and values. Embracing this perspective empowers both partners and enhances their sense of well-being and significance in the relationship.

Building Lasting Happiness

Happily, married couples didn’t arrive at their joyful unions by chance. They built their happiness through consistently practicing these supportive habits and seeking professional help if needed. By incorporating these habits into your own marriage, you can strengthen Black Love and create a satisfying, enduring partnership. You possess all the tools to craft a fulfilling marriage rooted in love and commitment.

Anti-Racist Alliance Writes Letter Urging CE Latimer Not To Challenge Rep Bowman In 2024 Dem Primary

AJ Woodson
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Anti-Racist Alliance Writes Letter Urging CE Latimer Not To Challenge Rep Bowman In 2024 Dem Primary

In a heartfelt letter addressed to Mr. Latimer, a concerned constituent has expressed deep reservations about his potential run for Congress in District 16 (DC16), urging him to seek another political path to avoid potential division among progressives.

The letter, written by a long-time supporter of Mr. Latimer and an advocate for progressive ideals, highlights the concern that challenging incumbent Representative Jamal Bowman could be detrimental to the progressive cause. The author acknowledges Mr. Latimer’s expertise and suggests that he could serve effectively at the State level, assisting Governor Hochul, rather than taking on Representative Bowman.

The writer expresses the fear that such a challenge may tarnish Mr. Latimer’s reputation as an advocate for racial justice and erode the respect and affection he has garnered over the years through various campaigns. The author notes their past support for Mr. Latimer but regrets that it may have to end if he proceeds with the Congressional bid.

In the letter, the author underscores the need for unity among progressives during a challenging moment for the country. Representative Bowman is hailed as a strong, courageous, and effective voice for progressive ideals during his two terms in office. The writer believes that challenging Mr. Bowman risks splitting the progressive vote in the upcoming primary, potentially allowing a centrist or conservative Democrat to secure victory.

The constituent passionately implores Mr. Latimer to resist the lure of big money and special interests that may seek to undermine Representative Bowman and promote a right-wing agenda. They emphasize the importance of continuing to be a valuable voice for progressive values rather than engaging in what they consider to be a misguided and unsuccessful run for Congress in District 16.

In closing, the author reiterates their commitment to supporting Representative Bowman and encourages Mr. Latimer to reconsider his decision to run for Congress in DC16. The letter underscores the delicate balance of unity and progressivism that many constituents believe is essential in the current political landscape.

As Mr. Latimer contemplates his political future, this heartfelt letter serves as a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that come with running for public office, especially when it involves competing within the same political camp.

Dear Mr. Latimer 

It is with great concern that I have read about your consideration of a run for Congress in DC16. I strongly urge you to seek another office after your tenure as County Executive. With your expertise, you could easily assist Governor Hochul at the State level without challenging Representative Jamal Bowman.  That is a horrible situation and one that many many many people in his district will oppose.  

Your reputation as an advocate for racial justice will be severely tarnished.  The respect that you worked for and the affection that you benefited from during many campaigns over the years will be squandered.   I will never forget it.  I have worked hard for your election, and it will be with regret.

We need to stand together in unity at this challenging moment for our country. Representative Bowman has been a strong, courageous, and effective voice for progressive ideals during his two terms in office. I believe it would be a callous decision to challenge Mr. Bowman and threaten to split the progressive vote and allow a centrist or conservative Democrat to win the upcoming primary. There is considerable support for Congressman Bowman in the district, and we would work urgently to ensure his reelection next November. 

Please do not fall prey to big money and special interests that would like to see Mr. Bowman defeated in an effort to further a right-wing agenda.

Please continue your work as a valuable voice for progressive values. I believe a run against Bowman would be a misguided and unsuccessful run for Congress in District 16.  I would work for Representative Bowman.

Sincerely,

By Sandy Bernabei

The Anti-Racist Alliance

Sandy Bernabei

Ceil Lavan

Mona Swanson

Katie Scully

Latifa Williams

Local Unions Rally Around Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano’s Re-election.

AJ Woodson
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Local Unions Rally Around Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano’s Re-election.

Yonkers’ local labor unions strongly supported Mayor Mike Spano’s re-election campaign on, Monday, October 30th. At a press conference, Teamsters Local 456, PBA, CLSA, MTA PBA, Local 628, UFOA, CSEA, YFT, SEIU, 32BJ, ALF-CIO, and AFSCME endorsed the Mayor’s campaign, praising his dedication to the well-being of Yonkers and its residents.

This landmark event underscored the Mayor’s unwavering commitment to the working people of Yonkers and the positive changes he has spearheaded during his tenure. The array of unions present, representing a broad spectrum of Yonkers’ workforce, showcased the broad appeal and significance of Mayor Spano’s leadership.

In a powerful address to the gathered supporters, Mayor Spano expressed his gratitude and dedication to their cause, saying,

“I am deeply honored and humbled by the overwhelming support of these esteemed unions. We have worked together to move our city forward, and this endorsement reaffirms our shared commitment to making Yonkers an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.”

The unions’ leaders, in turn, praised Mayor Spano’s proven track record in addressing key issues like economic development, education, public safety, and infrastructure improvement. They believe that his experience and vision are vital for the continued growth and prosperity of Yonkers.

The coalition of local unions that endorsed Mayor Spano’s re-election campaign includes:

Teamsters Local 456

PBA (Police Benevolent Association)

CLSA (Captains, Lieutenants, and Sergeants Benevolent Association)

MTA PBA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police) 

Local 628 (Yonkers Firefighters)

UFOA (Uniformed Fire Officers Association)

CSEA (Civil Service Employees Association)

YFT (Yonkers Federation of Teachers)

SEIU (Service Employees International Union)

32BJ (Building Service Workers Union, SEIU)

ALF-CIO (The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations)

AFSCME (American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees)

Mayor Spano faces the challenge of Republican City Councilman Anthony Merante. News 12 reported a third candidate in the Yonkers Mayoral race, Allison Abramson, who is running under the Working Families Party.

Early Voting for the General Election began Saturday, October 28, 2023, and runs through Sunday, November 5th, click here to see your early voting centers and hours.

Mayor Adams Appoints Louis Molina as Assistant Deputy Mayor for Public Safety

DAMON K JONES
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Mayor Adams Appoints Louis Molina as Assistant Deputy Mayor for Public Safety

NEW YORK – New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of Louis A. Molina as assistant deputy mayor for public safety. Molina currently serves as the commissioner of the New York City Department of Correction (NYC DOC). As assistant deputy mayor, Molina will be tasked with coordinating with all city agencies on public safety matters to ensure they align with Mayor Adams’ vision to keep every New Yorker safe.

“Public safety and justice are the prerequisites to prosperity, and that’s why, every day, Louis Molina gets up and ensures we are delivering both those priorities to those in our care. Over the last 22 months, Lou has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication as the commissioner of the Department of Correction, helping to reverse decades of mismanagement and neglect. Lou has brought this organization back from the brink of collapse, which is why I am thrilled to promote him to assistant deputy mayor of public safety,” said Mayor Adams. “I know that with Lou supporting Deputy Mayor Banks in this new role, our good work will only continue.”

“Louis Molina is a battle-tested and dynamic leader who has proven himself to be an innovator when it comes to law enforcement and public safety here in New York City,” said Deputy Mayor Philip Banks III. “In this new and expanded role, he will not only help lead the continued progress being made at the Department of Correction but will help us further the gains being made across our city’s entire public safety apparatus to ensure that New York remains the safest big city in the nation.”

“After the tremendous success we have achieved at the Department of Correction to reduce violence and improve safety, I’m honored Mayor Adams has selected me to take on even greater responsibility for public safety in our city,” said incoming Assistant Deputy Mayor Louis A. Molina. “I returned to the city where I was born and raised to serve in the Adams administration because public safety has been my life’s mission. As a New York City Police Department officer, a detective, a United States Marine, a law enforcement chief, and a commissioner, I am immensely proud of the work I have done throughout my career, and I’m eager to take on this next challenge. Working together with the leadership of every agency who plays a role in protecting others, we will continue to deliver greater public safety that leads to prosperity for every New Yorker.”

About Louis Molina 

Louis A. Molina assumed the role of commissioner of the New York City Department of Correction on January 1, 2022. He is a veteran public safety leader with experience in the military, law enforcement, and corrections.

Prior to joining the Adams administration, Commissioner Molina served as chief for the City of Las Vegas Department of Public Safety, where he oversaw the city’s jail, deputy city marshals, and other public safety officials. In 2018, Commissioner Molina served as the first deputy commissioner for the Westchester County Department of Correction. From 2016 to 2017, he served as chief internal monitor and acting assistant commissioner of the Nunez Compliance Unit at NYC DOC.

Commissioner Molina started his career in law enforcement as a police officer in the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and rose to the rank of detective.

Commissioner Molina has experience modernizing correctional systems through robust programming, building staff capacity, and making strategic investments that improved conditions for staff and people in custody. He has also built strong partnerships with faith-based and community leaders and nonprofit organizations working with justice-involved people.

Commissioner Molina is a decorated veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy from Chaminade University, a Master of Public Administration from Marist College School of Management, a Master of Arts degree in Human Rights Studies from Columbia University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, and studied abroad at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. He was a U.S. Department of Justice/Office of Justice Programs National Institute of Justice Scholar and most recently received a scholarship from the Harvard Business School Fund for Leadership and Innovation. Commissioner Molina has also completed the Harvard Business School General Management Program.

Molina will report to Deputy Mayor of Public Safety Philip Banks in this new role.

Assemblyman Vanel Introduces Landmark AI Bill

AJ Woodson
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Assemblyman Vanel Introduces Landmark AI Bill

Queens, New York – Taking a bold step into the future of technology governance, Assemblyman Clyde Vanel has unveiled a groundbreaking package of four bills addressing the various implications of artificial intelligence (AI). At the core of this legislative package is a comprehensive bill aimed at regulating high-risk AI applications.

“Artificial intelligence is poised to redefine nearly every industry in our lifetimes,” stated Assemblyman Vanel. “It’s our responsibility to ensure that we enjoy the benefits from its adoption and that we minimize and control its potential harms.”

Highlights of the AI Legislative Package:

The High-Risk AI Licensing Act | A8195
The High-Risk AI Licensing Act establishes a robust regulatory framework for overseeing AI applications that present significant societal risks. All persons developing such systems will be required to register with the Department of State. Examples include AI-enabled weapons, systems that could detrimentally impact infrastructure or the environment, AI that augments law enforcement, the judiciary or the legislature, AI that decodes or interprets neural activity, AI that controls financial systems, and more.

Emphasizing the balance between safety and innovation, the Act also lays out prohibited AI technologies while also introducing the R.E.A.C.T.I.O.N.S. framework, an ethical code of conduct that will guide all high-risk AI licensees. 

“Our intent is to cultivate a conducive environment for AI innovation in New York while ensuring the technology’s responsible use,” Assemblyman Vanel remarked. “AI holds immense potential, but its power must be harnessed with care and accountability. This is precisely why we are establishing a means to license and guide the development and application of these AI systems.”

Assemblyman Clyde Vanel with Boston Dynamics controlling S.P.O.T. the robot dog

Artificially Generated and Processed Evidence Act | A8110
This Act paves the way for a standardized framework governing the admissibility of AI-generated or processed evidence in both criminal and civil court proceedings. It is intended to solve the “black box” problem, a problem that persists among AI applications where nobody, not even the developers of the system, can accurately determine how the system makes its decisions.

Highlighting this concern, Vanel explained, “The opaque nature of AI decision-making—the ‘black box’ problem—necessitates stringent scrutiny, especially when these systems influence legal verdicts. New York has a historical problem with false convictions based on faulty technologies; we cannot allow a new wave of false convictions to arise with AI evidence.”

The AI Bill of Rights | A8126
Deriving inspiration from the white paper authored by the White House’s Office of Science and Technology, this bill is geared towards ensuring that every New Yorker can confidently navigate an AI-augmented world with their rights protected.

“Given AI’s pervasive influence, it’s paramount to have a legislative safeguard against its potential misuse,” Vanel emphasized.

Responsible AI Usage Act | A8101
This bill mandates that developers of generative and surveillance AI solutions, such as text, audio, video, and image generators, obtain user commitments to ethical usage. There have already been instances of panic being set off by AI-generated content, and this bill aims to address this problem.

“AI introduces manipulation capabilities far beyond traditional media manipulation that we are accustom to and that we can easily disprove. It’s our duty to preemptively address the challenges these advancements present,” Vanel noted.

Additional Noteworthy AI Bills by Assemblyman Vanel:

A4969
Creates a temporary commission to study and investigate how to regulate artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation (on the Governor’s desk)

A6896
Require lessors to provide a copy of a lease agreement upon written request (created and written by AI)

A7904
Requires disclosure of the use of artificial intelligence in political communications

A6790
Prohibits the creation of synthetic media with intent to influence the outcome of an election

A6775
Establishes the crime of unlawful dissemination or publication of a fabricated photographic, videographer, or audio record

A2598
Establishes the New York State Autonomous Vehicle Taskforce

“Let Me Fly,” DMX Tribute Exhibition Opens Friday, November 3rd At Yonkers Arts

AJ Woodson
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“Let Me Fly,” DMX Tribute Exhibition Opens Friday, November 3rd At Yonkers Arts

Yonkers, NY – October 30th, 2023 – Yonkers Arts and the Mulford Corporation present “Let Me Fly,” a DMX Tribute exhibition celebrating the life, music, impact, and enduring legacy of the legendary rapper DMX. The exhibition, curated by Ray Wilcox of Yonkers Arts, opens on November 3rd at the Yonkers Arts Project Space and Gallery. 

“Let Me Fly,” a DMX Tribute exhibition is a continued celebration of DMX’s life through artistic expression artists based in and around Yonkers. The exhibition features a collection of photo images and mixed media pieces anchored by professional photographer Shareif Z, also from Yonkers, whose featured images encapsulate almost two decades of DMX’s career. “Let Me Fly,” a DMX Tribute exhibition is also thankful for the donations from show partners Def Jam and the Timberland company. 

The idea and title of the exhibition, “Let Me Fly,” comes from one of DMX’s more personal songs featured on his iconic debut album, “It’s Dark and Hell is Hot.” The song serves as a cathartic outlet for him to express his pain and need for redemption. An introspective testimonial of struggle and resilience The desire to be free, to fly, or to just give him five (bleeping) minutes to breathe. The exhibition is DMX’s story told through his own words via song lyrics, interview quotes, and general information. 

“Let Me Fly”, a DMX Tribute exhibition is sponsored by the Mulford Corporation under the direction of Municipal Housing Authority CEO Wilson Kimball, the City of Yonkers, Arts Westchester, Yonkers PBA, and Yonkers Arts. It will be showcased at the Yonkers Arts Project Space from November until February. 

Registration is required for reception. Entrance to the exhibition is 100% free to the public. Opening Reception Registration Link. 

For more information about the “Let Me Fly”, a DMX Tribute exhibition, please visit director@yonkersarts.org.

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