• PSEG Long Island is reporting that as of 8:00 pm, 1,616 of the approximately 1.1 million customers across Long Island and the Rockaways, are currently without service, due to heavy snow causing weekend branches to break and take down power lines.
• Electric service crews will work through the night to respond to outages as safely and as quickly as possible.
• Customers with a handheld device can also report power outages by texting “OUT” to PSEGLI (773454). You will receive confirmation that your outage has been submitted and will begin receiving ongoing updates as the status of your outage changes. This requires a one-time registration, to register, text REG to PSEGLI (773454).

(Uniondale, NY) PSEG Long Island is preparing for more wintry weather that is expected to bring a mix of snow, sleet and ice through Wednesday, according to current weather forecasts.

PSEG Long Island has all available personnel on hand today to deal with any weather-related outages due to the heavy snowfall and is taking similar precautions tomorrow when another weather system is expected to affect our service territory.

In anticipation of the coming weather, PSEG Long Island is taking the following steps to ensure that the utility is ready to respond to any resulting power outages:

• Performing system checks on critical transmission & distribution equipment;
• Arranging for contractors, including tree crews, to assist the utility’s own skilled workforce if necessary;
• Performing logistics checks – ensuring availability of critical materials, fuel and other supplies;
• Coordinating with county and municipal emergency management personnel to inform them of the preparation work, what to expect and how the utility will respond.

While snow usually isn’t an issue for utilities, the possibility of sleet and ice can increase the likelihood of downed wires and resulting power outages. Vehicles striking utility poles can also cause wires to come down.

DOWNED POWER LINES

Accumulation of ice and heavy snow may weigh down power lines and as a result cause power lines to come down. Downed wires may appear dead but should always be considered “live.” STAY AWAY FROM ALL DOWNED LINES. Do not approach or drive over a downed line and do not touch anything that it might be in contact with. Parents are urged to check for downed wires in areas where their children might play and to remind the children to stay far away from any wires. If a wire falls on a vehicle, passengers should stay in the vehicle until help arrives. To report a downed wire, call 1-800-490-0075 and tell PSEG Long Island the nearest cross street.

IF YOU LOSE POWER

First check your neighborhood. If you are the only one without power, check your fuse box for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses. If that’s not the problem, look outside at the wire between your house and the utility pole. If it is down, report it immediately to PSEG Long Island.

To report downed wires or power outages, customers should call PSEG Long Island’s Customer Service line at 1-800-490-0075. PSEG Long Island uses an automated system to handle customer calls as efficiently as possible. Customers who get an automated response when calling PSEG Long Island are encouraged to use it, as it is designed to route their calls to the right destination. If you have specific information regarding damage to wires, transformers or poles, PSEG Long Island asks that you stay on the line to speak with a representative to provide that information.

Customers with a handheld device can also report power outages by texting “OUT” to PSEGLI (773454). You will receive confirmation that your outage has been submitted and will begin receiving ongoing updates as the status of your outage changes. This requires a one-time registration, to register, text REG to PSEGLI (773454) or visit My Account. General outage activity throughout our service territory is also available online and on our mobile website at www.psegliny.com. Updates are posted on www.psegliny.com/stormcenter during severe weather.

In addition, if outages are widespread, the utility will activate its Twitter page to keep the public informed about our restoration progress. Sign up as a follower at http://twitter.com/PSEGLI to monitor restoration progress.

At PSEG Long Island, employee and customer safety is first and foremost. Remember, safety is always the only choice

WHEN YOU DRIVE PAST OUR WORKSITES OR VEHICLES

Please slow down and be alert when driving past a PSEG Long Island roadwork jobsite, especially in snowy, icy weather. Driving too fast can endanger employees and hamper their ability to perform important work. PSEG Long Island crews use work area protection – traffic cones, utility work signs and flaggers – to protect them and to allow them to do their jobs safely. Follow safe driving techniques to prevent fender-benders or more serious collisions that could delay our service technicians as they respond to customer calls or emergencies.

CUSTOMERS WITH LIFE-SUSTAINING EQUIPMENT

Individuals who rely on electricity to operate life-sustaining electronic equipment, such as a respirator or dialysis machine, should pre-register with PSEG Long Island to receive priority attention in the event of an outage. To request the service, call PSEG Long Island at 1-800-490-0025. They should also inform their rescue squads and fire departments of their needs, in case of emergency. Even though customers with life-sustaining equipment who have registered with PSEG Long Island will receive priority attention during outages, they should also have emergency back-up equipment on hand, since immediate restoration cannot be guaranteed.

GENERAL TIPS

Mother Nature can be unpredictable. It’s wise to have an emergency kit on hand year round. Here are some things to include:

• A battery powered radio
• A corded telephone (Cordless phones will not work if the power is out)
• Flashlights and extra fresh batteries
• A first-aid kit
• Bottled water and an adequate supply of non-perishable food
• A non-electric can opener
• Matches and candles with holders
• Extra blankets and sleeping bags
• A list of emergency phone numbers, including PSEG Long Island’s Customer Service line: 1-800-490-0075. Call this number to report power outages or downed wires.

PSEG Long Island LLC was selected by the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) in Dec. 2011 to manage LIPA’s electric system. The 12-year contract includes commitments to improve customer satisfaction and provide safe, reliable service for LIPA customers. PSEG Long Island is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (NYSE:PEG), a publicly traded diversified energy company with annual revenues of more than $10 billion.

(Port Jefferson Station, NY) Being constrained is one of the worst feelings anyone can endure, whether you’re a human or an animal. Luckily, for a human, they can articulate discomfort. Dogs, on the other hand, cannot communicate that they are experiencing pain, fear, loneliness and isolation while tied up. Unfortunately, there are countless irresponsible owners that frequently tether their dogs because it makes “their” lives easier.

Save-A-Pet Animal Rescue and Adoption Center, Inc. wants owners to be aware of the many hazards that can ensue after chaining and/or tethering their dog. It is an act of cruelty that needs to be put to a halt with more laws enforced. February is being recognized as National “Unchain A Dog” month and it is vital that pet owners understand why they should refrain from the chains and be more attentive to their dog’s well-being.

Chaining your dog can lead to many deep physical and psychological issues. Below are some problems that you should be aware of that can be caused by tethering/chaining up your dog:

• Strangling — Dogs are generally social beings that yearn to roam and need a large yard to play. However, being tethered to a pole or being chained to a tree in the backyard during cold winters and hot summers can cause strangulation issues. Frequently, if a dog is chained up for a while, their necks become raw and covered with deep, red sores. This may be the result of a dog’s intolerance to confinement, by yanking or straining a leash in efforts to break away. Too many dogs in the U.S. have been found with collars embedded in their necks and permanent marks on their fur after several years of tethering.

• Straying —  There is a risk of stray dogs attacking yours while it’s tethered — making your dog defenseless and weak. According to the Humane Society of the United States, countless dogs that are chained up for long periods of time tend to become strays after finally breaking free from their leash. Therefore, refraining from tethering your puppy or dog can help reduce the amount of strays and attacks.

• Uncomfortable in Temps — This winter, temperatures have hit an all-time low, and unfortunately, many people continue to leave their dogs on leashes and chains in the freezing cold. Even in the summer, dogs are left outside during excruciating hot days, which lead to heat exhaustion in pets. This is an act of animal cruelty that can seriously hurt your dog. If the weather is too cold or too hot for you to stay outside, it’s not beneficial for your dog either. Leaving your dog constrained outside in extreme temperatures is not only an act of animal cruelty, but it will lead them to feel neglected and traumatized as well.

• Unsocialization — Tethered dogs can become protective and unsocial due to territorial issues and neglect. When a human comes over to pet a dog while it’s chained up, the dog is three times as likely to bite them, according to the Humane Society of the United States. It is important that others feel safe around your dog; constraining them will only increase the risk of your dog attacking innocent bystanders.

According to the Animal Law and Historic Center, some states have tethering laws. For example, in Delaware, the tether must be three times the size of the dog — from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail — to be legal. In New York, there are minimal tethering laws as of yet. However, in New York City, if a dog is chained up for more than three hours within a 12-hour period, the owner will be fined. Suffolk County, New York has minimal restrictions on tethering with a fine of up to $500 if violated.

“Just because it’s legal in New York State, doesn’t make it right,” says Dori Scofield, Founder/President, Save-A-Pet Animal Rescue and Adoption Center, Inc. “The physical and psychological problems that can arise in dogs are heartbreaking; it is morally wrong. Dogs are our companions, not lawn ornaments. It is crucial to get the word out that tethering a dog is just blatant cruelty. “

For more information, please visit www.saveapetli.net or call (631) 473-6333.

Save-A-Pet Animal Rescue Inc. was established in 1994 and is located in Port Jefferson Station. Save-A-Pet works tirelessly to place orphaned companion animals into loving homes. All of the animals that come to Save-A-Pet are spayed, neutered, tested for diseases and vaccinated. Prospective adopters are thoroughly screened and matched with the most suitable pet for them and their family. Save-A-Pet Animal Rescue is a non-profit, no-kill shelter and is a safe haven for all of the animals that enter it.

Okay, Mr. Snow, make room for Bill Cosby, Alvin Ailey, the Beatles and the Frog Prince. This week, the borough also welcomes Lunar New Year celebrations, Black History Month events, art, poetry and plenty of dance and film. Here’s the rundown.

Feb. 6, Bill Cosby & Frank Savage, 6 pm. Comedian Bill Cosby and financier Frank Savage discuss their new books. Free. York College Performing Arts Center, 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica, www.york.cuny.edu.

Feb. 6, Opening Reception for John Smalls, 6 pm. Smalls is an artist and a student of the martial arts. He showcases his passion for Jiu-Jitsu and its influence on his painting, illustrating, drawing, murals and digital design. Show runs through Feb. 28. Space Gallery, 29-09 39th Ave., LIC, www.spacegallerylic.com.

Feb. 6, Author Talk Urban Affairs Correspondent for The New York Times, 6:30 pm. Sam Roberts, who hosts the weekly NY1 program The New York Times Close Up, has a new book on NYC. Free. Queens Central Library, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica, www.queenslibrary.org.

Feb. 7, Black History Month w/Mr. Chris’ Musical Experience, 10:30 am. Mr. Chris presents a 45 minute hip hop performance celebrating two African Americans — Thurgood Marshall and Debbie Allen — along with various inventors. Jamaica Performing Arts Center, 153-10 Jamaica Ave., www.jamaica-performingartscenter.org.

Feb. 7, Beatles Anniversary, 11:30 am. The Port Authority marks the 50^th anniversary of the Beatles’ arrival at JFK Airport on Feb. 7, 1964 with an unveiling, food and the best faux Fab Four band. TWA Flight Center, JFK’s Central Terminal Area, adjacent to JetBlue’s Terminal 5. RSVP to the Port Authority’s Media Relations Office at 212-435-7777 is required.

Feb. 7, The Wiz, 7 pm. The Museum of the Moving Image presents the See It Big: Musicals series featuring films with singing and dancing extravaganzas. A Harlem school teacher is transported to Oz in The Wiz, a Motown co-production with a cast headed by Diana Ross and Michael Jackson. MMI, 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria, www.movingimage.us.

Feb. 7, Lab 201: Survey, 8 pm. In this play, Tom Lawrence hosts a popular entertainment news show and has a great life until his fiancée calls off their engagement and leaves him. Tom then struggles to understand his mistakes and turns to the unlikeliest sources. $10/$15. LaGuardia Community College Little Theatre, M Building, Thomson Avenue, between Van Dam and 30th streets, LIC, www.lagcc.cuny.edu.

Feb. 7, Take Root with Teresa Fellion & Teddy Tedholm, 8 pm (and on Feb. 8). In this once-a-month series for choreographers, Fellion investigates reactions to sound and explores dualities through movement. Then Tedholm retrofits new ideas into old molds to create something new through explosive, meticulous movement. $15. Green Space, 37-24 24th St., LIC, www.greenspacestudio.org.

Feb. 8, Ballet Hispánico, 8 pm (and Feb. 9 at 3 pm). Ballet Hispánico fuses classical, Latin and contemporary dance with a theatricality and passion that audiences of all ages enjoy. $29-$49 (Use code “ballet” for $5 off tickets). Goldstein Theatre at Kupferberg Center for the Arts, vicinity of Kissena Boulevard and Horace Harding Expressway, Flushing, www.kupferbergcenter.org.

Feb. 8, Lunar New Year Celebration, 1 pm to 4 pm. Queens Botanical Garden hosts such festivities as a tea workshop and a performance by the New York Chinese Chorus. Free with fees for certain activities. QBG, 43-50 Main St., Flushing, www.queensbotanical.org.

Feb. 8, Storybook Discovery Day, 11 am. In a cozy parlor setting, Karyn Mooney makes reading fun. Suggested for children six and under, the session includes an art or nature discovery activity. Suggested donation $5 per family. Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38th Ave., Flushing, www.vomuseum.org.

Feb. 8, Democracy, 2 pm. This New York Council for the Humanities Conversations with Kids event focuses on democracy. Karyn Mooney reads and discusses the book I Could Do That! Esther Morris Gets Women the Vote by Linda Arms White. In this story, Morris shows how one girl’s courage helps her obtain the right to vote for women in Wyoming Territory. Free. Queens Historical Society at Kingsland Homestead, 143-35 37th Ave., Flushing, www.queenshistoricalsociety.org.

Feb. 8, Like Water for Chocolate, 7 pm. A Better Jamaica’s new film series, Cinema en Español, begins with this Mexican gem (English subtitles). Free. Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., www.jcal.org.

Feb. 9, The Frog Prince & Peter and the Wolf, 3 pm. The Queens Symphony Orchestra brings these two classic tales to life. LeFrak Concert Hall at Queens College, vicinity of Horace Harding Expressway and Kissena Boulevard, Flushing, www.queenssymphony.org.

Feb. 9, Con Brio Ensemble, 4:30 pm. This Astoria-based group plays works by Brahms, Schumann and Schubert. $12 adults/$10 seniors & students/free for children under 13. The Church-in-the-Gardens, 50 Ascan Ave., Forest Hills, www.thecitg.org.

Feb. 9, Swingtime Big Band, 3 pm. A fun-filled afternoon of music, dancing and food with an authentic swing band. $30, includes pasta and meatball dinner and dessert. Queens of Angels Church Auditorium, 44-04 Skillman Ave., Sunnyside, 718-392-0011.

Feb. 9, Second Sundays, 3 pm. As part of Noguchi Museum’s monthly “Second Sundays” program, Leslie Gat from the Art Conservation Group and Noguchi’s curatorial team present a combination of pending, in progress, and recently completed conservation and reconstruction projects. Objects to be discussed and displayed included a broken column (c. 1957-58) from Noguchi’s unexecuted plans for Idlewild Airport (now JFK International Airport) and Sky Mirror (1982-83), a galvanized steel sculpture damaged during Hurricane Sandy. Free with admission. NM, 9-01 33^rd Rd., LIC, www.noguchi.org.

Feb. 9, Beatles Party, 6 pm. It’s the 50^th anniversary of the Fab Four’s first trip to the U.S. To mark the occasion, director and screenwriter Celeste Balducci hosts music, dancing and the world premiere of Lovely Lilly, an independent short film set in Jackson Heights on the historic weekend of Feb. 8-9, 1964. Elmhurst Hospital Center Auditorium, 79-01 Broadway, Elmhurst, www.thelovelylily.com.

Feb. 9, George Edward Tait: The Poet Laureate of Harlem, 3 pm. The Afrikan Poetry Theatre and the World Afrikan Diaspora Union present a poetry reading and workshop featuring Tait. $10. APT, 176-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica, www.afrikanpoetrytheatre.org.

Feb. 9, Fertile Ground, 7 pm. This non-curated performance event features five-to-six choreographers and a post-performance discussion with wine and cheese moderated by Green Space Artistic Director Valerie Green. $10. GS, 37-24 24th St., LIC, www.greenspacestudio.org.

Feb. 10, Ailey II, 11 am. This is an artistic workshop, and tickets are only available for groups of five or more. $15 (five-ticket minimum). Jamaica Performing Arts Center, 153-10 Jamaica Ave., www.jamaica-performingartscenter.org.

Feb. 11, Entrepreneur Space Third Anniversary, 6 pm to 8 pm. Celebrate the E-Space and its clients. As a commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the 1964 World’s Fair, the celebration will include Belgian waffles, which were introduced to the U.S. in 1964. Mariepaule Vermersch, who left Belgium to serve these waffles, will be on hand. Free. E-Space, 36-46-37^th St., LIC, www.queensny.org.

Feb. 12, Forgotten Queens, 7 pm. Author Kevin Walsh and Rich Melnick of the Greater Astoria Historical Society discuss their new book of local history, Forgotten Queens. Astoria Bookshop, 31-29 31st St., Astoria, www.astoriabookshop.com.

The “It’s In Queens” column is produced by the Queens Tourism Council with the hope that readers will enjoy the borough’s wonderful attractions. More info at www.itsinqueens.com.

New Data Shows System A.G. Schneiderman Created Has Significantly Expanded Prescription Drug Checks; Schneiderman: Ending Epidemic Of Rx Drug Abuse Has Been A Top Priority Since First Days In Office

(NEW YORK) Attorney General Eric T. Schneiderman today applauded the release of new data highlighting the successful implementation of the Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing Act (I-STOP). Introduced in June 2011 by Attorney General Schneiderman and unanimously passed by the Legislature in 2012, the Internet System for Tracking Over-Prescribing (I-STOP) Act is a national model for other states and Congress to follow to curb prescription drug abuse, the nation’s fastest-growing drug problem.

I-STOP set up a real-time database that tracks every prescription for opioid pills that gets filled in New York State. Starting in August 2013, doctors are required under the law to consult that database before writing any prescriptions for a Schedule II, III, or IV controlled substance, including narcotic painkillers. According to data released today, more than 66,000 health care professionals across the State have run more than seven million individual prescription checks on nearly three million separate patients since August 2013.

“Ending the epidemic of prescription drug abuse that plagues too many New York communities has been a top priority of mine since my first day in office, which is why I proposed and helped pass the law that created New York’s historic I-STOP program,” said Attorney General Schneiderman. “I applaud Governor Cuomo for successfully implementing the program we created, and will continue to work with his administration to crack down on doctors who break the law, helping to prevent even more New Yorkers from falling victims to dangerous addictions and hurting our communities. Today’s news is a powerful reminder of the important steps we can take to protect New York families when we work together to develop innovative solutions to key challenges.”

By requiring pharmacists to report in real time each prescription they fill for a Schedule II, III, IV or V drug and consult the database before filling any prescriptions, I-STOP has helped provide prescribers with as much information as possible as quickly as possible to avoid dangerous drug interactions and to detect drug dealers who use pharmacies as suppliers. Earlier this year, two abused drugs, hydrocodone and tramadol, were rescheduled. Hydrocodone became a Schedule II drug, thereby ending the automatic refills that evaded medical review and served to feed addictions and support street sales. Tramadol, previously unscheduled, became a Schedule IV drug.

I-STOP also established safe disposal programs, providing a place for New Yorkers to get rid of expired and unneeded drugs to ensure that they are not left in medicine cabinets for children or addicts to access.

I-STOP will also deter fraud against private health insurers and the state government. Taxpayers have been paying for a substantial portion of the overprescribed pills through the Medicaid program – hundreds of millions of dollars each year.

In March 2015, I-STOP will make New York one of the first states to schedule the universal mandate of e-prescribing for all drugs. This system will nearly eliminate the problem of forged, traded, or stolen prescriptions—used both by addicts and criminal organizations to obtain a wide variety of pills to resell on the street and on the black market. These crimes also cost the taxpayers millions.

For more information on New York’s innovative I-STOP program, click here.

(Long Island, NY) As the snow continues to cause scattered outages across Long Island, PSEG Long Island is reporting that as of 2:00 pm, 2,445 of the approximately 1.1 million customers across Long Island and the Rockaways, are currently without service.

Customer and employee safety is our number one focus. Given the conditions, we are closing Customer Service Centers at 3 pm.

To report downed wires or power outages, customers should call PSEG Long Island’s Customer Service line at 1-800-490-0075. PSEG Long Island uses an automated system to handle customer calls as efficiently as possible. Customers who get an automated response when calling PSEG Long Island are encouraged to use it, as it is designed to route their calls to the right destination. If you have specific information regarding damage to wires, transformers or poles, we ask that you stay on the line to speak with a representative to provide that information.

Customers with a handheld device can also report power outages by texting “OUT” to PSEGLI (773454). You will receive confirmation that your outage has been submitted and will begin receiving ongoing updates as the status of your outage changes. This requires a one-time registration, to register, text REG to PSEGLI (773454) or visit My Account. General outage activity throughout our service territory is also available online and on our mobile website at www.psegliny.com . Outage and restoration updates are posted on www.psegliny.com/stormcenter during severe weather.

The PSEG Long Island Twitter page, accessible at http://twitter.com/PSEGLI, is keeping the public informed about our restoration progress. Customers are encouraged to sign up for updates and additional information.

(Long Island, NY) The Federal Government has released additional Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding for New York, according to Senator Ken LaValle. The extra funding will enable New York to continue operating the regular benefit component of the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) into February. Senator LaValle said, “Long Island has faced many difficult storms and extremely low temperatures already this season. The federal monies will provide those qualifying families with much needed help for their home heating bills.”

Eligible households in New York may receive one regular HEAP benefit per season and could also be eligible for an emergency benefit if they are in impending danger of running out of fuel or having their utility service shut off. HEAP is a federally-funded program administered through the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA). “I urge everyone who believes that they might be eligible to visit the website or call for information.” concluded Senator LaValle.

To see if you qualify and for detailed information and to apply visit: http://otda.ny.gov/programs/heap/ or call 1-800-342-3009.

(Hackensack, NJ) As somebody who’s been around the sport of boxing since he was an infant, those who know him would already refer to 18-year-old junior middleweight Bobby Gunn Jr. a boxing lifer.

The son of a fighter whom he shares a name with, Gunn Jr. showed promising skills the very first time he put on a pair of gloves. However, on September 16, 2006, Gunn Jr’s passion for boxing was at an unstoppable high when he witnessed his father stop 76 fight veteran Shannon Landberg to capture the IBA cruiserweight title.

“As much as I wanted to keep him away from the sport, I knew right away that he had a lot of talent,” said the elder Gunn, who fought Thomas Adamek, Glen Johnson, James Toney and Enzo Maccarinelli before retiring in December 2013. “Even after I won my belt and he was heavily obsessed boxing, I tried to gear him towards other sports and hobbies. The problem was he always insisted on coming to the gym with me. A sport like this takes a lot of dedication and kids are always trying new things. To my surprise, he stuck with it and now he’s sparring with the pros and looks like a million bucks in the gym.”

Gunn Jr had a good amateur background but knew the pinnacle of his success wouldn’t be with headgear on so he decided to focus on getting ready for the paid ranks.

To get ready for his first professional bout, Gunn Jr’s been training in Jersey City, NJ under the tutelage of highly-respected Roger Bloodworth. Bloodworth, who trained four world champions including Tomasz Adamek and Fernando Vargas, is impressed with what he’s seen.

“He’s a very young fighter with really good power,” said Bloodworth. “I think he can become a good boxer and he’s a quick learner. I also think he’s mature enough to handle the pressure of having a father that was a good pro. The biggest thing is (to take our time because even in three years) he’s only going to be 21.”

In 1989, Bloodworth trained a talented young fighter a fighter that turned pro as a teenager. The fighter went on to win a world title and Bloodworth believes Gunn Jr. has ability to do the same.

“I had a kid that came out of the amateurs at 17 named Eddie Hobson that turned pro when he was still in high school. He had all the talent in the world and won a world title when he was 24. Even though they’re different fighters stylistically, I think Bobby Jr. has the same level of potential that Eddie did and he should do great things in the pros.”

Gunn Jr., who is managed by his father, will debut in March or April. More information will be available shortly. Contact: Matt Yanofsky (Team Gunn) 551-206-0578 or @kopublicity

Senator Phil Boyle sponsors bill to avoid re-traumatization of sexual assault victims by sharing treatment sessions with offenders

(Albany, NY) In an effort to provide a safe and non-threatening outpatient treatment environment for sexual abuse victims, Senator Phil Boyle is sponsoring “Victim Safe Treatment” Bill (S.4251). The primary purpose of this bill is to create guidelines and procedures that prevent additional victimization of sexual offense victims while
receiving mental health or chemical dependence treatment.

This legislation was initially proposed by Long Island resident, Robin Roberts. Ms. Roberts has been at the forefront of protecting sexual assault patients who are receiving outpatient treatment.

“The passage of this bill is of great importance in maintaining the safest and healthiest treatment environment possible for both the facility and all its patients,” said Robin Robert. “This will minimize the risk of harm to
patients and alleviate the liability for negligence.”

Under the current Mental Hygiene Law, there is potential for sexual offense victims being placed in the same outpatient mental health and chemical dependence treatment therapy sessions as registered sex offenders. Unless
guidelines are created that address this issue, sexual assault victims may be subjected to additional traumatization including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms.

In order to ensure the safest environment for sexual offense victims, Senator Boyle is working towards amending the Mental Hygiene Law to include the development of guidelines and procedures for the treatment of sex offenders in outpatient group settings. These guidelines would be based on clinical-treatment standards that pertain to the segregation of sex offenders from the general outpatient population.

“Victims of sexual abuse should be commended for their efforts to receive treatment,” said Senator Boyle. “It is our job to guarantee that they feel safe and protected while receiving this treatment.”

For additional information or questions regarding “Victim Safe Treatment” Bill (S.4251) contact the Senator’s District Office Communications Department at (631) 665 2311 and ask for Christine Geed or Krista Knoblauch-McNally.

(Long Island, NY) The Zeldin for Congress Campaign, backed by New York State Conservative Party Chairman Mike Long, just released the following statement regarding the new untruthful Obamacare attack launched by George Demos:

“This really represents the worst in politics,” said Chapin Fay, Zeldin for Congress Campaign Manager. “George Demos is about to learn, yet again, that making things up will not get you elected to Congress. It is a documented fact that the insurance exchange in New York State is 100 percent federally funded and was created by Governor Cuomo unilaterally in April 2012 after the New York State Senate Republicans, including specifically Senator Zeldin, blocked the 2012 legislation to implement Obamacare. Not one dollar of state funding has been appropriated for New York’s insurance exchange.

Because George Demos is not from the First Congressional District, he underestimates Suffolk County voters who are smart enough to know when they are being deceived. Voters will once again reject George Demos’ crash and burn negative and untruthful campaigning. Senator Zeldin, an honorable military veteran and diligent, principled State Senator who led the fight against Obamacare in New York State will be the Republican Party’s nominee to take on Democrat Tim Bishop.”

New York State Conservative Party Chairman Mike Long said:

“The most recent television ad released by George Demos is nothing more than a desperate cry for attention. While the ad aims to hit Senator Zeldin, its factual inaccuracies and erroneous claims have served only to expose George Demos as a liar. George Demos is the real ‘fraud’ here. He is clearly running another sham campaign and the lies espoused in the ad represent the height of hypocrisy for George Demos. It is ironic given the same special interests pulling Nancy’s Pelosi’s strings are pulling Demos’.

Senator Lee Zeldin has never voted to fund Obamacare. The bill that George Demos referenced, but obviously didn’t read and understand, accounted for the federal funding that came to the state as a result of Governor Cuomo’s executive order in April 2012 to unilaterally create the insurance exchange in New York.

I find it laughable that the accompanying statement made sure to note that Demos has never voted for Obamacare. Of course, he hasn’t voted. He’s never been elected to a public position—there’s a reason for that.

Lee has been a rock solid conservative voice in Albany has never voted to provide funding for Obamacare and is my choice for Congress in the First Congressional District.”

To learn more about Senator Zeldin and his campaign for Congress, please visit www.zeldinforcongress.com.