(New York, NY) New Yorkers Against Gun Violence (NYAGV) and State Legislators Against Illegal Guns (SLAIG) will hold a press conference in the NYS Capitol tomorrow, Tuesday, April 1st, to discuss ongoing implementation of the Secure Ammunition and Firearms Enforcement Act (NY SAFE Act), and call for additional legislative action to further reduce gun violence.

NYAGV Executive Director Leah Gunn Barrett, SLAIG Co-Chairs Assemblymembers Brian Kavanagh and Michelle Schimel, fellow legislators, gun violence victims and their loved ones, and advocates will discuss their legislative priorities to prevent gun violence for the remainder of the 2014 legislative session.

Confirmed Attendees:

• Leah Gunn Barrett, ED NYAGV
• Assemblymember Brian Kavanagh and Michelle Schimel, Co-Chairs of SLAIG
• Assemblymember Karim Camara, Chair of the Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic and Asian Legislative Caucus
• Other members of the SLAIG Steering Commitee
• Gun violence victims

When: Tuesday, April 1, 2014, 11.00 am

Where: The Million Dollar Staircase, 3rd Floor Senate Side, NYS Capitol Building, Albany, NY

(Long Island, NY) The ELIJA School and Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of education and intervention services for individuals with autism in the Long Island and New York City areas, announces its “RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY” on April 2, 2014 to celebrate its new, larger location at 11 Laurel Lane in Levittown, New York.

ELIJA stands for Empowering Long Island’s Journey Through Autism, and with its expansion, the school and foundation look forward to increasing enrollment and providing more community outreach programs to the families and professionals who count on their support and services.

On February 3, 2014, ELJIA packed up and moved to its new home which previously served as an elementary school in the Levittown School district. The 13-room school house spans over 12,000 square feet of classroom and community space.

“We would like to thank the leadership of the Levittown School district for opening their doors to our growth,” said Director Debora Thivierge. “Their support truly means the world to us.”

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is ELIJA’s way of expressing their gratitude toward the ELIJA families for their continued involvement over the years, as well as those who helped make this move possible. Among these people is a close friend of Thivierge, David Hunt of Hunt Corporate Services, who generously donated his time and energy representing ELIJA in negotiations to help secure an appropriate relocation site. ELIJA Parent Tom Havens and Adam Verstandig of the law firm Jones Day negotiated the lease probono, deserve a special thank you for their tireless efforts. Councilman Gary Hudes also played a crucial role as an advocate for ELIJA’s new space. They are extremely grateful for his constant support for a quality education system for children with autism.

Visit www.elija.org for more information about the ELIJA School and Foundation.

About ELIJA
The ELIJA Foundation is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization serving parents, educators, professionals and caregivers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on Long Island, New York. Since 2002, The ELIJA Foundation has provided the community with educational opportunities that focus on improving the quality of programs and services available to children with Autism. In 2006, The ELIJA School opened its doors to extend the mission of the Foundation and start helping children with Autism. The Foundation’s focus is to empower families and improve the competency level of professionals, by providing training on the most advanced treatment and educational strategies that maximize the potential of those affected by Autism. The Foundation hosts workshops that give the community access to local and nationally recognized Autism professionals who present topics that will allow those with Autism to more fully participate in their families, communities and educational settings.

(Huntington, NY) Town of Huntington athletes swapped helmets, gloves, jerseys, skates, cleats, bats and other sporting equipment Saturday March 29th at the Town of Huntington’s Inaugural Sport Swap at the Dix Hills Ice Rink.

Residents were encouraged to drop off gently used hockey, baseball, soccer, lacrosse and figure skating equipment to the ice rink in March and received one voucher per item donated for the “Sport Swap”. Residents who were unable to make a donation ahead of time were permitted to “Shop the Swap” with a donation to the Huntington Youth Council. Members of the Huntington Youth Council were on hand to assist “Sport Swap” shoppers as they browsed through the donated merchandise.

Town of Huntington athletes swapped helmets, gloves, jerseys, skates, cleats, bats and other sporting equipment Saturday March 29th at the Town of Huntington’s Inaugural Sport Swap at the Dix Hills Ice Rink. Photo Credit: Town of Huntington.

“The Inaugural Sport Swap was a terrific success and brought several sporting communities together,” commented Councilwoman Berland. “Sports equipment is expensive, so offering a forum where families can pick up ‘new’ equipment while donating their ‘older’ equipment helps everyone. I would like to thank the Huntington Youth Council for being the sales associates for the day and the Dix Hills Ice Rink staff for running everything smoothly.”

(Long Island, NY) Assemblyman Edward Hennessey (D-Medford) announced that the Assembly passed a piece of legislation that would implement the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act (A.9135). This act sets a 6-percent participation goal in the awarding of state contracts to service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, which doubles the goal of the federal government.

“Helping New York’s service-disabled veterans pursue business ventures will strengthen our local economies while also doing right by the brave men and women who served our great nation,” Assemblyman Hennessey said.

New York is home to more than 900,000 veterans, 72 percent of whom have served during periods of conflict. Specifically, there are over 50,000 veterans living in Suffolk County , the largest population of veterans in New York State. In addition, 1 in 7 veterans are self-employed or small-business owners, Hennessey noted.

With passage of the Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business Act, New York will join 44 other states and the federal government in implementing a program to help self-employed service-disabled veterans gain more state contracts.

This act creates the Division of Service-Disabled Veterans’ Business Development within the Office of General Services (OGS). To qualify, small businesses must be at least 51 percent owned by a service-disabled veteran who controls day-to-day operations. The businesses will be certified for five years. The director of this division will be tasked with providing and collecting information to help these businesses, developing a directory of certified businesses and promoting service-disabled veteran-owned business services statewide. To help assess the effectiveness of the program, OGS will be required to make public an annual report.

“This legislation is long overdue. I’m hopeful the Governor will sign this bill into law immediately because it’s time we protect those who protect us,” Hennessey concluded.

(Hauppauge , NY) Hauppauge High School Girls Lacrosse Program is held a first lacrosse tournament fundraiser for Angela’s House, a local non-profit that assists families caring for children that are medically fragile in the community. The tournament was on Saturday, March 22nd, 2014 at Hauppauge High School in Hauppauge. The new varsity coach Diana Lopez and her coaching staff, Jerry Goodfellow and Tina Cascio had 10 teams with over 200 girls playing in the tournament to benefit Angela’s House. They had a concession stand serving food and beverages for purchase to those in attendance.

Hauppauge High School Girls Lacrosse Program is held a first lacrosse tournament fundraiser for Angela’s House, a local non-profit that assists families caring for children that are medically fragile in the community. Photo Credit: Angela’s House.

For more information about Angela’s House, please visit www.angelashouse.org. Also, please visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/angelashouse.

ABOUT ANGELA’S HOUSE: Angela’s House is a 501 C3 non-profit organization that assists families caring for children with special health care needs that are medically fragile, chronically ill or suffering from a life threatening illness. The organization assist families caring for their children at home and for children that can no longer live at home we have Angela’s House. The Policastro family founded this agency 20 years ago following the tragic crisis they lived with their daughter Angela. This parent-based origin has become the approach and philosophy they apply to each family they assist.

(Long Island, NY) The Watermill in Smithtown, Thursday March 27th, was transformed from a beautiful catering hall into a space full of love, support, friends, and family. Over 250 people were in attendance, and although not everyone knew each other personally, they were not strangers. The Angela’s House Gala was an event that united people for a beautiful night, in support of the children and families of Angela’s House.

“I feel blessed to have had such a big crowd and a very nice spirit the whole night. Thank you for your support which helped us to have a successful evening.” Said Bob Policastro, about the wonderful night.

Photo of the Krantz Motor sports car with the Angela’s House logo on it. Photo Credit: Angela’s House.

The Gala was a night not only for community members, and friends to show their support for this amazing organization, but mostly it was for the families and the employees of Angela’s House to dedicate their lives to helping these children live happy, comfortable, and joyful lives, in a safe and loving environment.

Looking back at last night, there was not a dry eye in the room as Angela’s House Founder; Bob Policastro gave an emotional and touching speech honoring Bonnie Farrell. A nurse supervisor at Angela’s house, known for her kindness, compassion, and dedication to her work, family, and friends, and who’s life was lost far too soon.

“Seeing how happy these children are in their new home, Angela’s House III, makes all of the work worthwhile. I am so thankful for everyone who supports what we are doing.” Said Bob Policastro.

Darren Krantz, a long time friend, and supporter of the organization was honored with the Angel Wings Award for his Race For Kids Organization, held at the Riverhead Raceway every year. Darren Krantz and his company PRC Industries have donated over $118,000 to the organization. Darren and his family and team for years have been generously promoting and raising money for Angela’s House and other children with special needs. His father Arthur Krantz has also been recognized for his support over the years as well.

The gala was an emotional night, one full of love and support. The organization was able to raise thousands of dollars but more important then the money raised was the awareness. Awareness is the most important; money cannot buy what the result of awareness can bring. The deep-rooted desire that everyone who lives, works, and supports this organization has to help these children and to assist parents in safely caring for their children at home. It is important for people to understand what the homes of Angela’s House are all about.

“We have a burning desire to have to our children live in one of our homes verse living far from home or in a hospital or nursing home. We feel the children deserve our homes, ones that offer a warm and loving environment.” Said Bob Policatro.

While seeing the children who Angela’s House takes care of can sometimes be very sad and challenging, the event celebrated the lives of the beautiful children and how far they have come. It was a magical night, one that will reside in the hearts of everyone who was in attendance for the rest of their lives, as well as in the children and families that receive everyone’s love and support. For more information about Angela’s House, and how you can become involved visit the website: www.Angelashouse.org today.

For more information about Angela’s House, please visit www.angelashouse.org. Also, please visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/angelashouse .

ABOUT ANGELA’S HOUSE: Angela’s House is a 501 C3 non-profit organization that assists families caring for children with special health care needs that are medically fragile, chronically ill or suffering from a life threatening illness. The organization assist families caring for their children at home and for children that can no longer live at home we have Angela’s House. The Policastro family founded this agency 20 years ago following the tragic crisis they lived with their daughter Angela. This parent-based origin has become the approach and philosophy they apply to each family they assist.

(Long Island, NY) Suffolk County Police have arrested a Lake Grove woman for burglarizing her landlord’s residence and falsely reporting a burglary to mislead responding officers.

Sara Hernandez called 911 on March 26 to report that a man was breaking into the main portion of a home, located on Ebzu Court, in which she has an apartment. Hernandez said the man broke into her landlord’s residence before fleeing in a red vehicle. Fourth Squad detectives responded with patrol officers and determined that a burglary had occurred. An investigation into the burglary determined that Hernandez had fabricated the incident and had committed the burglary herself.

Suffolk County Police have arrested Sara Hernandez, a Lake Grove woman for burglarizing her landlord’s residence and falsely reporting a burglary to mislead responding officers. Photo Credit: SCPD.

Fourth Squad detectives arrested and charged Hernandez, 25, on March 27 with Burglary 2nd Degree, Falsely Reporting an Incident 3rd Degree, Making a Punishable False Written Statement, three counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance 7th Degree and two outstanding warrants. Hernandez was held overnight for arraignment today at First District Court in Central Islip.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. Defendants are entitled to a fair trial with the burden on the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

(Huntington, NY) Councilwoman Susan A. Berland and Councilwoman Tracey A. Edwards were on hand to celebrate the induction of Keith Barrett, MJ Fitzgerald and Linda Guido into the Tri Community & Youth Agency Hall of Honor.

The Tri Community & Youth Agency is a private, not-for-profit community based agency dedicated to supporting the growth and development of youth and their families in the communities of Huntington, South Huntington and Cold Spring Harbor. For over 40 years, the Tri CYA has provided a broad range of education, recreation, social, cultural, athletic, counseling and advocacy programs. The Tri Community and Youth Agency Hall of Honor pays tribute to individuals who’ve demonstrated their unselfish commitment to young people and to their community.

From Left to Right: Linda Guido, MJ Fitzgerald, Councilwoman Susan A. Berland and Keith Barrett Not Pictured: Councilwoman Tracey A. Edwards. Photo Credit: Town of Huntington.

“Presenting each of these individuals with proclamations from the Town of Huntington was such a pleasure,” commented Councilwoman Berland. “Each of them has added to the Town of Huntington in their own unique way. They are each impressive individuals dedicated to improving their community and I’m proud to call Keith, Linda and MJ my friends.”

Keith Barrett is a lifetime resident of Huntington Station and has shown a devotion to Huntington for many years. Since 2004, Keith has served as President of the Huntington Station Business Improvement District Committee. His focus is improving the quality of life in Huntington Station and his efforts have been critical in the revitalization of the area. Keith also serves as the Co-Chairperson of the Community Organization/Group Development of the Huntington Station Action Coalition and is a Committee Member of the Suffolk County Downtown Revitalization Committee representing Legislator William Spencer.

MJ Fitzgerald has been a resident of Huntington for almost 30 years and has been active in the not-for-profit community since she moved into town. As President of the Huntington Community Council, MJ successfully hosted a bi-lingual information fair in Huntington Station and was vital in the launch of the Huntington Awareness Day Parade and Festival and was a founding member of Huntington Anti-Gang Task Force (CAST). MJ is a Charter member and President of ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians Div. 4 Mary Robinson, Chairperson of the Community Thrift Shop and President of the Thrift Shop from 2003-2007, President of the Rotary Club of Huntington, the District Governor Elect for Rotary International and a board member of The Huntington Arts Council and Moonjumpers. She is also active with both the Huntington and Melville Chambers of Commerce.

Linda Guido is a lifelong resident of Huntington and is currently legislative aide to Legislator William Spencer. She has worked tirelessly for the children of Huntington, having served a s a member of the Town of Huntington Youth Bureau Board, the Family Service League Bord and the Huntington School Board. Linda was instrumental in implementing and continues to facilitate the Tri CYA’s mentoring program, which has now served more than 50 young people over the 5 year period it has been in existence.

(Long Island, NY) County Executive Steve Bellone reminded residents today that the Suffolk County Department of Labor is hosting five onsite recruiting events and three Career Quest workshops, beginning Monday, March 31.

“Our goal remains to help residents find jobs right here in Suffolk County,” said County Executive Steve Bellone. “By attending these onsite recruiting opportunities, residents can take advantage of workshops that will provide invaluable information on the training and skills needed for new and rewarding careers.”

Upcoming:

Kmart is looking to hire 15 people as cashiers or merchandisers Monday, March 31, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Suffolk County One-Stop Employment Center, 300 Center Drive, Riverhead.
Home health care aides and personal aides are invited to apply for All Metro Health Care positions Wednesday, April 2, 9 a.m.-12 p.m., at the Suffolk County One-Stop Employment Center, 725 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge. Candidates must have appropriate certificates.

Interim Healthcare is seeking home health aides and personal care aides Thursday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Suffolk County One-Stop Employment Center, 300 Center Drive, Riverhead. Certification required.

Sears Home Services will be hiring repair technicians Monday, April 7, at the Suffolk County One-Stop Employment Center, 725 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge, from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The company is looking for laundry appliance, residential refrigeration, small engine and cooking appliance repair technicians.

The National Recruiting Group will interview candidates for 25 line attendant positions, refurbishing cellphones, Tuesday April 8, 9 a.m.-12p.m., at the Suffolk County One-Stop Employment Center, 725 Veterans Memorial Highway, Hauppauge.

The county also will host three Career Quest sessions at the Hauppauge office. On Tuesday April 1, starting at 9:30 a.m., a workshop will explore franchising, including how to find the right opportunity, financing and research.

On Wednesday, April 9th, a representative from Suffolk County Community College will present an informational session on careers in the heating and cooling and manufacturing technology fields. The session begins at 9:30 a.m.

Careers in Civil Service will be discussed Thursday, April 10th at 9:30 a.m.

Advance registration is required for Career Quest opportunities. Call (631) 853-6600 to book a spot.

For the latest news, event information, photos and videos, visit www.facebook.com/stevebellone.

(New York, NY) The following statement is attributable to Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman on today’s release of President Obama’s “Climate Change Action Plan to Reduce Methane Emissions”:

“We can no longer afford to disregard the overwhelming evidence of climate change and the threat that it poses to our families, our communities, and our economy. It is clear that methane from the oil and gas industry contributes substantially to climate change pollution. At the same time, it is clear that well-established and cost-effective measures to control these emissions are available. I applaud President Obama for recognizing that reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas industry is a necessary part of efforts to address the threat of climate change, and for committing his Administration to a strategy to achieve these reductions in the near term. I look forward to working with the Administration as it implements its methane strategy, and to continuing the efforts of my Office to ensure that the climate change impacts of oil and natural gas operations are properly evaluated and mitigated.”

Background

In December 2012, Attorney General Schneiderman, leading a coalition of seven states, notified the federal Environmental Protection Agency of his intent to sue the agency for violating the Clean Air Act by failing to regulate methane emissions from the oil and natural gas industry. The coalition charged that because EPA has determined that methane is a powerful climate change pollutant emitted by the industry in large quantities, and because affordable methods for controlling these emission were known to be available, EPA had violated the Clean Air Act when it largely ignored methane in 2012 updates to air pollution emission standards for the industry. EPA’s decision at the time not to directly address the emissions left the vast majority of methane emissions from oil and natural gas operations – including hydrofracking – unregulated.

In addition to the citizen suit notice, the Attorney General has taken several recent actions to ensure that the impacts of natural gas and oil on climate change are adequately evaluated and addressed:

• Intervening in the Con Ed rate case to press the utility to evaluate the impacts of climate change on its operations, measure methane leaks, and speed up the replacement of leaking pipes.
• Asking the U.S. State Department to fully evaluate the climate change impacts of the Keystone XL pipeline and other means of importing tar sands petroleum before deciding whether the pipeline is in the national interest.
• Filing a brief with the U.S. Supreme Court urging it to uphold EPA permitting regulations that require large sources, such as petroleum refineries and power plants, to limit greenhouse gas emissions.

Last summer, President Obama issued a Climate Action Plan that, among other things, committed the Environmental Protection Agency and the Departments of Agriculture, Energy, Interior, Labor, and Transportation to develop a comprehensive, interagency methane strategy. The group’s charge included identifying existing legal authority to reduce methane emissions. The methane strategy announced by President Obama today is the product of that group’s work. Besides the oil and gas industries, the White House’s plan also seeks to tackle methane produced by landfills, coal mines, and the agriculture sector.