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Author: World News

  • US congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee seeks $600m emergency assistance for the flood hit Pakistan.

    WASHINGTON, DC –Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat representing the 18th Congressional District of Texas is writing a letter to House Committees on Appropriations and Foreign Affairs, requesting $600 million as part of emergency assistance for the flood hit Pakistan.

    This funding request follows the $500 million in aid sent by the United States to Pakistan following the 2005 earthquake, which laid the foundation for an unprecedented international effort to rescue and rebuild Pakistan.

    This request for the $600 million assistance to Pakistan is aimed at saving more Lives by averting a Winter Disaster and assure a stable and sustainable recovery following devastating flooding in the spring.

    Sheila Jackson Lee also serves as Chair of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Committees on Budget. She is the founder and chair of the Pakistan Caucus.

    The Homeland Security Committee and the Pakistan Caucus conducted a CODEL visiting Pakistan and touring the agriculture region impacted by the flooding disaster that created a 62-mile wide lake, destroying crops and other agricultural assets; and saw an enormous loss of life including children.

    Congresswoman Jackson Lee was joined by fellow members of the House Pakistan Caucus.

    This request, if implemented would be an investment in Pakistan following the devastating earthquake in 2005 proved to be a sound investment in preventing disabling forces in that country following the disastrous earthquake.

    The same investment approach in 2022 will yield even more important outcomes by providing much-needed assistance that would save lives; and help counter dictatorships in the region,while enhancing the U.S.-Pakistan relationship.

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  • Four Top executives of NYPD retiring at the end of the year

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    According to NYC Mayor’s Office, three veteran NYPD chiefs and a civilian deputy commissioner, who have made lasting contributions in their critical roles and across their careers, are stepping down.

    Police Commissioner Keechant L. Sewell announced the retirement of Chief of Transit Jason K. Wilcox, Chief of Housing Kathleen M. O’Reilly, and Chief of Special Operations Harry Wedin.

    The department’s deputy commissioner of support services, Robert Martinez, is also retiring.

    Commissioner Sewell said that Kathy O’Reilly, Harry Wedin, Jason Wilcox, and Bob Martinez are dedicated public servants. Collectively, these executives devoted nearly a century-and-a-half of service to the NYPD and the people of NYC and we owe them a debt of gratitude for their tireless contributions.

    Sewell expressed gratitude for their decades of service and wished them well.

    It was a privilege to serve alongside each of them, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavors, Commissioner Sewell.”

    The retirement will be effective on December 30.

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  • Mayor NYC arrives at Qatar to prepare for 2026 FIFA World Cup

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    According to CBS News, New York City Mayor Eric Adams arrived in Qatar on Friday to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. New York and New Jersey were selected as hosts.

    Adams will visit cultural sites on Doha and meet with World Cup organizers.

    Thursday, Adams took part in a conference in Athens, Greece. More than 25 mayors from around the world took part in the 2022 Mayors Summit against Anti-Semitism.

    Adams spoke at the event, met with Athens’ mayor and signed a twinning agreement with the Greek capital.

    “I believe there’s nothing more exciting than the city of Athens and the city of New York to come together and become partners as we become a symbol for all the cities across the globe, not only in America, not only here, but across the globe that are looking to solve the same problems,” said Adams.

    Adams highlighted the cleanliness of Athens and what he described as a feeling that the government understands citizens’ needs and is working to respond to them.

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  • US death Rates Hits Highest Mark in decades

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    According to Associated Press, the U.S. gun death rate last year hit its highest mark in nearly three decades, and the rate among women has been growing faster than that of men, according to a study published Tuesday.

    The increase among women most dramatically, in Black women is playing a tragic and under-recognized role in a tally that skews overwhelmingly male, the researchers said.

    In October, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released data on U.S. firearm deaths last year, counting more than 47,000, the most in at least 40 years.

    The U.S. population is growing, but researchers say the rate of gun deaths has been getting worse, too. America’s gun-related homicide and suicide rates both rose 8% last year, each hitting levels not seen since the early 1990s.

    In the new study, the researchers examined trends in firearm deaths since 1990. They found gun deaths began to steadily increase in 2005, but the rise accelerated recently, with a 20% jump from 2019 to 2021.

    The researchers counted more than 1.1 million gun deaths over those 32 years — about the same as the number of American deaths attributed to COVID-19 in the last three years.

    About 14% of those killed by guns were women, but the rate increase among them is more pronounced. There were about 7 gun deaths per 100,000 women last year, up from about 4 per 100,000 in 2010 — an increase of 71%. The comparable increase for men was 45%, the rate rising to about 26 per 100,000 from about 18 per 100,000 in 2010.

    For Black women, the firearm suicide rate rose from about 1.5 per 100,000 in 2015 to about 3 per 100,000 last year. Their homicide death rate last year was more than 18 per 100,000, compared with about 4 per 100,000 for Hispanic women and 2 per 100,000 for white women.

    The highest homicide gun death rates continue to be in young Black men, at 142 per 100,000 for those in their early 20s. The highest gun suicide death rates are in white men in their early 80s, at 45 per 100,000, the researchers said.

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  • Governor Hochul announces the start of construction on the Champlain Hudson Power Express Transmission Line

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    According to NBC New York News, Governor Kathy Hochul has announced the construction of the Champlain Hudson Power Express transmission line to deliver 1,250 megawatts of clean hydroelectric energy upon completion.

    The line will stretch from the Hydro-Québec company in Canada down to New York City. This construction follows a major labor union agreement between Transmission Developers Inc. and New York State Building and Construction Trades.

    The line will carry the hydroelectric power, the energy created from turbines and flowing water, 339 miles.

    According to the Governor’s office, achieving this feat will create $3.5 billion in economic benefits to New Yorkers, which translates to almost 1,400 family-sustaining union jobs.

    Governor Kathy Hochul says that, as construction begins on this project to help deliver clean energy to New York City, our state is setting yet another example of what climate action looks like.

    “The Champlain Hudson Power Express transmission line is a monumental step toward protecting our environment and creating family-sustaining, green jobs in both upstate and downstate New York,” Governor Hochul said.

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  • Five New Haven cops indicted for mistreatment of a black accused in custody

    New York: Five New Haven police officers have been indicted over their mistreatment of a Black man while he was in custody. Prosecutors alleged their actions resulted in the man’s paralysis from the chest down, as per reports.

    In the US state of Connecticut, five police officers have been indicted for the incident in which a black suspect was paralyzed while being taken into a police van.

    The police officers have been accused of being negligent and endangering and abusing the accused.

    Randy Cox, who is black, was being transported to a police station in New Haven on June 19 when the driver of a police van slammed on the brakes, causing Randy Cox to crash into the back doors of the van, paralyzing his lower torso.

    In the video from the body cameras, the police officers in the van were seen mocking the suspect and then dragging him by his legs to jail.

    After watching the video, the police officers have been charged, after which all five officers have been placed on administrative leave.

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  • Unknown men shot dead a teen-age boy in Bronx borough NYC

    New York City: Unknown men shot dead a teenage boy in the Bronx Borough, leaving a wave of fear among the area dwellers of the bustling New York City.

    The police have started the investigation and search for the accused.

    According to police, the shooting happened at Bronx Street near Morris Avenue.

    A 14-year-old boy was killed by the firing of the suspects.

    Police say two suspects opened fire on the teenager, who was rushed to St. Barnabas Hospital, where he was pronounced dead by the doctors.

    Police said the youth was with his friend at the time of the shooting, but no information was provided about him.

    According to a news agency, investigators found five bullet casings at the scene. The incident is under investigation to ascertain the fact behind this deadly crime.

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  • Rockefeller Christmas Tree kicks off the Holiday Season

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    With the beginning of December, Christmas preparations have started in America. A large number of citizens have turned to Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan to see the Christmas tree decoration.

    The 50-foot wide, 14-ton tree was brought down to NYC from Queensbury, New York on Nov. 14. The tree is believed to be 85 to 90 years old.

    The tree has more than 50,000 LED lights on five miles of wire and is topped with a Swarovski crystal star. The three-dimensional Swarovski star, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind in 2018, weighs about 900 pounds and features 70 spikes covered in 3 million crystals. The star’s diameter is 9 feet, 4 inches, according to NBC News.

    According to NBC News, the tree was lit up on 30th November and will be lit every day throughout the holiday season. The lights on the tree will be lit every day from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. On Christmas Day, the tree stays on for 24 hours.

    It has not yet been announced when the tree will be taken down. However, whenever it does come down, the tree will be taken down and milled into lumber that is donated to Habitat for Humanity.

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  • Low pay, covid, overwork, irritating attitudes of students key reasons forcing US teachers to quit profession

    New York: Various research and survey reports conducted across the US this year have suggested low pay scale, the Covid-19 pandemic, overwork, and irritating attitudes of students are some key reasons that forced teachers to quit their profession, while the US government has so far not been able to come up with a comprehensive plan to address their concerns.  

    The pandemic and shifting political landscape have left teachers feeling overworked and undervalued.

    According to a 2022 Gallup poll, K-12 teachers report the highest burnout rate of all U.S. professions. More than four out of every 10 teachers said they feel burned out “always” or “very often” at work.

    The National Center for Education Statistics says 44% of public schools will report teaching vacancies at the start of this year and more than half of those were from resignations with 1000s of teaching vacancies across the country.

    According to Money, America’s teachers are fed up. As the Great Resignation continues in full swing, teachers who quit their jobs are particularly likely to feel angry and blame low pay and the pandemic when they leave the classroom behind.

    A new survey from job search platform Joblist explores why so many workers are quitting, and one of the big takeaways is that many teachers in the U.S. feel unhappy and underappreciated.

    According to the poll, 26% of educators who quit their last job cited low pay or lack of benefits as a reason why they left, compared to 19% of workers in all industries who resigned because of meager pay and benefits.

    Joblist also found that while less than 1 in 4 of those who recently quit reported feeling angry with their employers, teachers were particularly full of rage. Some 30% of teachers felt “angry” or “very angry” with their employers when they decided to quit — second only to hospitality workers, 34% of whom reported feelings of anger.

    For decades, America’s educators have said they would’ve abandoned the job long ago were it not for their devotion to their students. But after a demanding and demoralizing two years that included Zoom schooling, culture wars, and shootings, those threats have finally become real. A Gallup Poll in February showed that K-12 educators were the most burned-out segment of the US labor force.

    Now teachers are walking out by the hundreds of thousands, vowing never to return. A study by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) in March found that 44% of public schools reported teaching vacancies. By LinkedIn’s calculations, the number of teachers who quit in June was almost 41% higher than a year earlier.

    About 76% of the 3.5 million US public school teachers were female in the 2017-18 academic year, the latest available NCES data show. As women abandon the field for industries in which pay is higher, stress lower, and creative thinking more valued, education could see a generation-long brain drain.

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  • Mayor Adams Signs Package of Bills to Improve Diversity within FDNY

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    According to NYC Mayor’s Office, Mayor Eric Adams signed a package of five bills to improve diversity within the Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY).

    The bills aim to address the recruitment and retention of underrepresented groups within the department, as well as requiring the implementation of diversity, inclusion, anti-discrimination, and anti-harassment training.

    Mayor Eric Adman said that FDNY frontline heroes keep our city safe day in and day out, and we take another step to strengthen and support New York City’s Bravest.

    The bills asked FDNY to develop and implement a plan to recruit and retain individuals from underrepresented populations within the rank of firefighter and a plan for providing ongoing training and education to all employees regarding diversity and inclusion.

    “New York City’s diversity is our strength, and these five bills will help build a more inclusive FDNY that is reflective of the millions of New Yorkers we serve. I’m grateful to our colleagues in the City Council for their partnership and commitment to building a more diverse and inclusive Fire Department for generations to come,” said Mayor Adams.

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  • NYC retirees sue Adams administration for $55M

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    According to NY Post, retired New York City government workers, who enjoy among the most generous taxpayer-provided health benefits in the US are suing Mayor Eric Adams and the city for $55 million over $15 copays for doctors’ visits.

    The Manhattan Supreme Court class-action suit was filed on behalf of 183,0000 retirees.

    It claims that the city and Emblem Health/GHI are violating a court order to not impose additional costs on retirees for the 20 percent supplemental coverage not covered by Medicare, the federal health program for senior citizens 65 and over.

    The copays, which are far less than the standard $40-$50 fee required by private insurance, were imposed in January. Retirees previously were not charged a co-pay.

    NYC Mayor Adams said the City Council must agree to allow his administration to switch retired city workers to a private Medicare Advantage plan, with an option to opt out in exchange for a high out-of-pocket price or he will unilaterally move all retirees into a Medicare Advantage plan.

    Retirees have argued that Medicare Advantage denies or provides less medical care than their current supplemental “Senior Care” plan.

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  • John F. Kennedy International Airport unveils new Terminal 8

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    According to the Simply Flying website, American Airlines, and British Airways unveiled the first look of the newly renovated Terminal 8 at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.

    American Airlines, British Airways, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey hosted a press conference at JFK to unveil the updates at the terminal.

    A brand new $400 million terminal unveiled a new check-in area, new gates, and three new lounges. The newly renovated terminal is expected to accommodate about 10 million passengers annually. The renovated terminal has been expanded an additional 130,000 feet.

    Terminal 8 includes the addition of five new widebody gates, four new widebody parking positions, and an enhanced and expanded baggage handling system.

    American Airlines and British Airways will move operations to the new Terminal 8 on December 1.

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  • US becomes the educational destiny for Pakistani students pursuing higher education

    New York: US has become the educational destiny for Pakistani students pursuing higher education, as the number of Pakistani students studying at different US educational institutions is surging at 17 percent, on an annual basis.

    A US government report suggests that the number of Pakistani students in the US has surged by 17 percent in 2022, compared to 2021.

    This week, a report released from the US capital – Washington said that the US has been the top priority for the students of South Asian Countries including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Nepal.

    Bengali students are taking lead with an annual 23 percent penetration in the US educational institutions, followed by Indians with 19 percent, during the period under review.

    It is relevant to mention here that Pakistani students are making the most of the US-funded Fulbright Scholarship program in the educational field under which as many as 150 students go the different US institutions for the higher education.

    US has been kind enough to ensure monetary assistance for some 800 students from Pakistan each year under the  Exchange Program.

    This is the reason why Pakistan is considered as the hub of students’ network formerly graduated from the US.

    ‘Open Donors Report on International Educational Exchange’ suggests that the number of students visiting the US from China and India constitute 52 percent of the total students coming to the US from across the globe.

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  • Felonies surge 40% on NYC subways compared to 2021

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    According to the NY Post, New York Police Department recently released stats stating that felony crimes including murder, rape, and robbery have surged on the subway system by 40% so far this year compared to 2021.

    The figures prepared for Tuesday’s MTA board committee meetings showed that at least 1,917 felony crimes were reported from January through October up from the 1,367 tallied during the same period last year. The October tally included three murders, two burglaries, 51 robberies, 46 felony assaults, and 108 grand larcenies, all increases from that month in 2021, according to police.

    Killings in the subway system since 2020 have also skyrocketed to the highest annual levels in 25 years as the city grapples with an overall spike in random violence, NYPD stats show.

    The system had seen nine murders so far this year as of Oct. 31, compared to six during that period last year, according to the newly released data.

    A spokesman for the MTA Aaron Donovan said an influx of police officers announced last month by Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams has led to less crime.

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  • NYC Building to be Lit Orange for Gender-Based Violence Awareness

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    According to the NYC Mayor’s Office, Mayor Eric Adams announced that City Hall and several other municipal buildings will be lit orange for the annual “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” campaign. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the consequences of gender-based violence.

    The lighting of city buildings will be done in coordination with other New York City landmarks across the five boroughs.

    Eric Adam says that “Gender-based violence is abuse that exploits the unequal power in relationships between genders, and can happen anywhere in our city, to anyone, and takes many forms, whether it be verbal, physical, or mental.

    He further said that “This is a public safety issue that impacts us all and those who have or are suffering from gender-based violence. Every New Yorker deserves safe spaces and healthy lives. That is why this administration is fighting to end gender-based violence across every borough and why it is committed to preventing and eliminating all forms of violence against all people.”

     

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  • Khyber Society of America holds Pukhtun Cultural Day on completion of its 15 years of establishment

    New York: Khyber Society of America, a premiere not-for-profit cultural organization held a grand Pashtun Cultural Day on completion of its 15- year-journey, in New York City with traditional zest and fervor.

    The rich Pakhtun Cultural Day was celebrated in Punjab Restaurant, Brooklyn.
    The Pakhtoon Day event also featured a humorous dialogue on married couples often arriving late for ceremonies.

    Awards were also distributed among prominent personalities of the community.

    The Khyber Society officials said that the organization amis to be the world’s premier Pashtun organization. It has been assisting and educating the Pashtun Dispora while preserving and evolving their culture and 6000 years old creed of Pashtunwali.

    The event began with the recitation of a few verses of Holy Quran by Nisar Khan.

    Later, the National anthem of Pakistan was played, and all the participants of the ceremony stood up, respectfully.

    Khalid Khattak administrated the event and welcomed the guests on their arrival and introduced everyone.

    In his address to the participants, Taj Akbar, the head of Khyber Society of America said that he has realized that now the element of show off is reflecting when it comes to helping the needy ones, and humanitarian works.

    He said the journey of Khyber Society of America began some 20 to 25 years back. We had great loyal companions, but they left this mortal wold in the middle of this tough journey. This journey is very difficult, he said adding  to seve a person in need, and that too without any interest is quite difficult task. One person cant carry out this legacy of humanitarian work.  The community people must come forward, help and support the organization.

    The 67-year-old Taj Akbar asked the youth to come forward and take the lead in this noble cause.

    Consul General of New York Ayesha Ali and Deputy Consul General on this occasion said the organization has been providing invaluable services to the community and that she is proud of it. She said she listened the speakers of the event who were underscoring the need of constitutionalism.

    She said the democratic spirit is so much alive in your society, and your society is so much democratic, and the way this society has been organized.

    Nawab Adil Khan said that all the nationalities living in Pakistan have their own unique identity but they all work together for the country.

    Other speakers also expressed their views at the event. They said that Pakhtun people and their culture are thousands of years old, but we should learn other languages ​​too.

    On this occasion, a report containing the relief activities carried out by Taj Akbar and his team in the flood-affected areas of Pakistan was also shown.

    The participants appreciated the efforts of Khyber Society and Taj Akbar. At the end, eminent personalities of the community were also honored with awards in recognition of their services.

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  • Hundreds of Flights canceled, delayed as Holiday Travel Spikes.

    Web Desk:

    According to NPR and The Daily Mail, thousands of flights were delayed and hundreds were canceled across the airports in the United States as severe weather hampered travel on one of the busiest holiday travel weekends of the year.

    More than 6,000 flights were delayed, and 178 were canceled as of Sunday, according to FlightAware.

    A severe weather system is to blame for many of the delays and cancellations as travelers tried to get back home after the Thanksgiving holiday.

    The three major airports servicing New York City and the Tri-state area advised travelers to arrive early for their flights over the Thanksgiving holiday and to be prepared for similar disruptions throughout the holiday season.

    Airports are also warning travelers about delays and other disruptions to their travel.

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  • NY Labor Department slaps MTA over ‘excessive’ tripping hazard at Manhattan bus stop

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    According to the NY Post, the roof of the MTA’s largest bus depot is filled with excessive trip hazards, holes, and puddles, the state Department of Labor has charged in official documents.

    DOL investigators last week flagged the Michael J. Quill Bus Depot in Midtown Manhattan with four employee safety violations including one for unsanitary and disorderly conditions on the building’s roof.

    “There are excessive amounts of trips and falls hazards due to the roofs [sic] floor having large amounts of cracks & potholes,” officials wrote in a safety violation notice obtained by The Post.

    “Employees are exposed to serious physical harm due to slip, trip, and fall hazards caused by the floor cracks, holes/potholes, and uneven surfaces throughout the entire roof.”

    Other DOL violations issued last week included ones for the MTA’s failure to post publicly the city-approved weight loads for the building and to enforce personal protective equipment and helmet rules for workers.

    MTA spokesman Aaron Donovan said in a statement that MTA takes safety very seriously and is fully cooperating with the DOL in remediating concerns raised in the filings right away. MTA engineers look forward to further addressing conditions noted in the report relative to cracks, potholes, and ponding, while also replacing a deck, curbs, and expansion joints.”

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  • NYC landowners must post FDNY safety bulletin warning of e-bike battery fires

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    According to the NY Post, New York City landlords will be required to post an FDNY safety guide warning apartment dwellers about fires caused by e-bike batteries.

    The fire department has issued an emergency safety bulletin to help prevent the deadly blazes, as New Yorkers buy up popular electronic bikes, scooters, and hoverboards during the Christmas shopping season.

    In 2022, New York City faces at least 140 fires tied to devices that injured 140 and killed six people, officials said.

    Photo Courtesy: Robert Mecea

    E-bikes and other lithium-ion battery-powered mobility devices have become all the rage. But many people store and charge e-bike batteries in their apartments, which pose serious fire safety hazards, officials said.

    The guide will need to be posted inside apartment complexes by April 30.

    The guide urges consumers to immediately stop charging an e-bike and call 911 if there is a fire or smoke, battery overheating, leaking, a strange smell, or a battery making an odd noise.

    The fire department published an emergency safety bulletin to help prevent the deadly blazes from e-bikes.

    The FDNY also posted a public service video on its Instagram account urging Big Apple residents to take safety measures to prevent such fires when e-bikes are stored in their homes.

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  • ICNA Relief gives away groceries, halal chicken among people on Thanksgiving Day

    New York: ICNA Relief New York gave away large quantities of groceries and halal chicken amongst the community people in different areas of the city in connection with Thanksgiving Day.

    ICNA Relief – the charity organization strives to uplift the underserved in the US through a nationwide network of shelters, food pantries, and health, etc. organizes dozens of food distribution events across the U.S. to share the joy of Thanksgiving with families in need.

    This year also saw a large-scale grocery distribution organized by ICNA Relief at various locations, including food pantries at Jamaica Quays in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and the Hamza Mosque in Long Island.

    Anwar Gujjar in Brooklyn, Shabbir Gul in the Bronx, Ishaq Alpar in Jamaica oversaw the distribution process, while Sarfraz Ahmed, president of Masjid Hamza oversaw the distribution process of a food pantry in Long Island which was held in partnership with Masjid Hamza.

    ICNA Relief New York Area Manager Ishaq Alpar said while talking to the media that Food pantries established by ICNA Relief in New York have provided halal chicken with groceries to hundreds of families.

    A long queue was seen at various places for the groceries.

    Through five halal food pantries, ICNA Relief New York distribute rations to thousands of families every month, while special arrangements are also made on various festivals including Ramadan and Eid.

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  • NYC Mayor Eric Adams travel to Greece, and Qatar next week.

    Web Desk:

    According to NYC Mayor’s Office, Mayor Eric Adams is heading to Athens, Greece to participate in the conference on Anti-Semitism and to Doha, Qatar to learn more about co-hosting FIFA World Cup.

    Mayor will head to Athens on Nov. 30 to attend the 2022 Mayors Summit against Anti-Semitism.

    The trip comes following a recent attack against the Jewish community thwarted by local, statewide, and federal law enforcement last weekend.

    Mayor will travel to Doha, Qatar on Thursday, December 1st, to “learn more” about the 2022 FIFA World Cup games. He will meet with several government officials, and security and economic development leaders.

    The trip is intended to learn more about the 2022 World Cup as New York City/New Jersey prepares to serve as a host city to the games in 2026.

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  • Kathy Hochul to pick 1 of 7 Candidates to lead the State Judiciary

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    According to the NY Post and Spectrum local news, Newly elected Gov. Kathy Hochul will choose a new chief judge from a list of seven names unveiled this week by a state panel to lead New York’s highest court.

    Gov. Kathy Hochul said that this will matter for all New Yorkers, the court rules on a tremendous range of issues, from housing protections to business disputes to medical malpractice to voting rights.”

    According to e law, the governor must make her decision between December 8 and December 23 to nominate a permanent replacement for ex-chief Judge Janet DiFiore. Former Chief Judge Janet DiFiore, appointed by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, resigned in July amid a reported judicial conduct investigation.

    The State Senate will then have 30 days to confirm or reject her appointment.

    Here are the names of seven candidates nominated for chief judge:

    • Anthony Cannataro is currently the acting chief judge after being appointed to the Court of Appeals by former Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
    • Abbe Gluck, a Yale-trained lawyer, and doctor, previously served as the lead counsel for the White House COVID-19 Response under President Biden.
    • Hector LaSalle heads the busy Appellate Division, Second Department in Brooklyn where his administrative record could catch Hochul’s eye.
    • Jeffrey Oing, an associate justice at the Appellate Division, First Department in Manhattan, could become the first Asian American to lead the Court of Appeals.
    • Alicia Ouellette is the dean of Albany Law School, an expert on disability issues, and former assistant solicitor general and assistant state attorney general.
    • Edwina Richardson-Mendelson could be the first Black woman to be the chief judge after serving on the Court of Claims and overseeing anti-bias initiatives under DiFiore.
    • Corey Stoughton is a longtime criminal defense attorney who has worked for The Legal Aid Society and the New York Civil Liberties Union.

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  • Mayor Eric Adams attends Thanksgiving Day event organized by a Muslim Women’s Organization in NYC

    New York: New York City Mayor Eric Adams graced a Thanks Giving event in Brooklyn – known as little Pakistan and distributed turkeys, halal chicken, and food items to the community people.

    The event held by a Muslim women’s social organization saw overwhelming participation from the community members, particularly the needy ones.

    Members of the community welcomed the mayor and hailed him for this participation in the Thanksgiving Day program.

    On the occasion, Muslim Women Liaison for Mayor Atiya Shahnaz thanked Eric Adams for his arrival and said: “Mayor Eric Adams always supports the Muslim community, encourages us and supports us at every opportunity.”

    Various social and welfare organizations held events in connection with the annual Thanksgiving Day, and distributed turkeys, halal chicken and other food items among the people.

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  • APAG celebrates Thanksgiving Day in a grand manner

    New York: The American Pakistani Advocacy Group (APAG) – a vibrant not-for-profit organization celebrated Thanksgiving Day by distributing Halal turkeys and food packages to the community members.

    The APAG’s officials and volunteers in their third annual food drive on Thanksgiving Day distributed Halal turkeys and food packages to hundreds of needy people in New York.

    The response by the community was overwhelming which serves as yet another reminder that food insecurity is still relevant in these high inflationary times.

    It is relevant to mention here that the Pakistani community organizations in New York celebrate Thanksgiving Day in a grand manner, and also they never miss any festival of happiness in the American society.

    The APAG distributed a large number of turkeys and other essential food items to the needy ones.

    Assemblyman David Weprin also graced the event with his presence. He said that the Pakistani American community always connects people’s hearts by sharing happiness.

    The food box included fresh fruits, vegetables, milk, bread, eggs and many items of daily use.

    Ali Rashid, President of APAG, said that rising inflation and food shortages are a big problem in New York. No one can be left alone in such grim situation and especially on occasions of happiness. He thanked all APAG Cares members who participated by packing and distributing.

    “We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to continue to serve the community.” Ali Rashid said

    Our food packages consisted of fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs, bread, juice, yogurt and other non perishable items.

    APAG members and volunteers also participated in packing turkeys and other essential food items for the food drive on Thanksgiving Day.

    They say they are always happy to help those in need and doing community’s uplift work.

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  • Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, full of Colors and Happiness

    Web Desk:

    According to Spectrum News ny1 news, the 96th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade went off without a hindrance in the city with tons of new additions and old favorites.

    The parade began at 9 a.m. at Central Park West and 77th Street and proceeded down a 2.5-mile route. The parade ended in front of Macy’s Herald Square on 34th Street.

    Photo Courtesy: Getty Images

    This year’s parade featured plenty of favorite balloons, but there were also several new additions, including popular children’s characters Bluey, Stuart the Minion, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and DINO and Baby DINO. A Baby Shark float also made a debut this year.

    The event was also star-studded, as usual, with appearances by Paula Abdul, Sean Paul, Jimmy Fallon, The Roots, Mario Lopez, Jordin Sparks, the cast of the Muppets, and more.

     

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  • ‘Thanksgiving Day’ marked in U.S. as ACMW distributes Halal turkeys among needy ones

    New York: As Thanksgiving Day is being celebrated across the US, the American Council of Minority Women (ACMW), in partnership with Islamic Relief USA, distributed turkeys to hundreds of needy people.

    Thanksgiving Day is awaited throughout the year in the US, and the American Council of Minority Women celebrated it in a grand manner on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn. Various stalls were also decorated on this occasion.

    Assemblyman Robert Carroll was also invited as a guest.

    Pakistan’s Consul General in NYC Ayesha Ali also graced the event with her presence and she along with ACMW Chairperson Bazah Roohi and volunteers from ACMW organization distributed Halal Turkeys among hundreds of people.

    The needy people lined up in harsh weather to receive halal turkeys as gifts on Thanksgiving Day.

    Bazah Roohi said that halal turkey is not easily available, “there are many people who are deprived of it throughout the year, we understand their difficulties, and we have made a small effort to share this happiness with as many people as possible,” she said.

    Adeel Rana, the first Pakistani Deputy Inspector in the New York Police Department, also participated on this occasion.

    On Thanksgiving Day, Pakistani-Americans did their part to prove that no matter what the festival is, it is a celebration of happiness. They were of the view that everyone should try to participate in it.

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  • Bajwa doctrine helped Pakistan navigate choppy waters

    The 6-year-tenure of Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has come to an end, as President Dr. Arif Alvi on Thursday approved the summary sent by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for the appointment of Lieutenant General Syed Asim Munir as the next army chief and Lieutenant General Sahir Shamshad Mirza as the new Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC).

    The last six years of General Bajwa as COAS witnessed numerous challenges both internally and externally, but Bajwa remained exemplary in managing the hardcore professional tasks as well as helping Pakistan navigate choppy waters during his tenure.

    Some of the significant milestones achieved under General Bajwa’s tenure as Army Chief include as under. The palace intrigue among mainstream political parties in Pakistan and following that an economic turmoil resulted in an increased frustration among the general public. It is largely believed that the frustration was maliciously manipulated to target Pakistan Army and its leadership using disinformation campaigns that aimed to shadow the achievements of Gen Bajwa. Famously known as Bajwa doctrine proved to be a stumbling block for Pakistan’s enemies and was appreciated internationally for advocating peace and stability in the region and beyond. The highlights of General Bajwa’s meritorious tenure as the Chief of Army Staff are as follow:

    Operations against terrorism

    When General Bajwa took charge as the Chief of Army Staff Pakistan was facing a serious threat from terrorist groups spread across the country. Under his command Pakistan Army launched Operation Raad-ul-fasaad in February 2017 to uproot the terrorist elements across length and breadth of Pakistan. The operation resulted in eliminating roots of terrorism from Pakistan which was also acknowledged across the world.

    Stagnant of Defence Budget

    The Defence budget during tenure of COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa was not increased due to economic downturn. A decision that was taken to help the country sail through the choppy waters as it was struggling with its economy. Pakistan’s defence budget as a percentage of the GDP went down drastically, from 6.50 percent in the 1970s to 2.54 percent in 2021. In the budget for fiscal year 2021-22, defence services were allocated Rs1,370 billion, out of the total budgetary resources of Rs8,487 billion, about 16 percent of the total budgetary resources. Of this 16 percent allocation, the Pakistan Army got Rs594 billion. In effect, Pakistan Army only got a paltry seven percent of the total budgetary resources. The Pakistan Army in the year 2019 also relinquished Rs100 billions of its budgetary allocation to support the economy of the country.

    General Bajwa took personal interest in complex disputes settlement that saved billions of dollars for Pakistan. Karkey Karadeniz Electrik Uterim dispute settlement counts among the best examples of such efforts. A core committee composed of civil & military leadership found the company to be involved in corruption in Turkey, Lebanon, Switzerland, Dubai, and Panama. The evidence of these corruption scandals was presented to the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) Tribunal. The resolution of Karkey dispute saved Pakistan from 1.2 billion dollars penalty imposed by ICSID. Another significant contribution of the Army Chief was settlement of dispute with Barrick Gold Canada which saved Pakistan from substantial $11 billion penalty in the Reko Diq case.

    Smooth progress on the CPEC project

    Pakistan’s relations with China have deepened over the years with projects such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Pakistan Army, under the leadership of COAS General Bajwa, played a key role in these ties as the security for this project was guaranteed by the Armed Forces. Commenting on the extension granted to COAS General Bajwa, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang said, “We believe that under the leadership of General Bajwa, Pakistan Army will continue to make contributions to upholding Pakistan’s sovereignty and security interests and regional peace and stability. General Bajwa is an extraordinary leader of the Pakistan Army.”

    Covid-19 Pandemic and Bajwa’s role

    Under the directions of COAS, COVID testing labs were established at major military hospitals across the country, with a central facility set up in Rawalpindi during the international emergency of Covid-19 pandemic. Pakistan Army stepped in for the support of police and LEAs in the implementation of the COVID SOPs laid down by the NCOC and Ministry of Interior. Thousands of army troops were deployed across the country to check on medical facilities and other arrangements and compensated for the manpower shortages among the civil administration wherever needed. The army’s supportive role in national response against Covid-19 pandemic through National Command and Operational Center (NCOC) signifies its institutional strength and capacity.

    Military Diplomacy

    Pakistan Army under the command of General Bajwa played a crucial role in strengthening Pakistan’s ties with countries across the globe through military diplomacy. A number of military exercises were carried out with key international players including China, Saudia, UK, Russia, and many other states. In this regard due to General Bajwa’s personal efforts and numerous visits to friendly countries at times when Pakistan had been facing most difficult of economic difficulties, Pakistan was provided much needed financial assistance and support by the friendly countries. As the head of Pakistan Army many achievements were made under General Bajwa’s tenure on all fronts.

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  • NYC to auction gifts given to former New York City Mayors

    Web Desk:

    History collectors can now get their hands on some gifts given to former NYC Mayors.

    NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock and NYC Department of Records and Information Services (DORIS) Commissioner Pauline A. Toole announced the launch of Gifts to the City, a series of online auctions of selected items gifted to previous NYC Mayors.

    An initial selection of over 50 items from Mayors Ed Koch, David Dinkins, Rudy Giuliani, and Michael Bloomberg are now up for auction by DCAS. Items include autographed sports memorabilia, art, jewelry, and other keepsakes.

    Photo Courtesy: NYC DCAS

    NYC DCAS Commissioner Dawn M. Pinnock said that Gifts to the City offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of history, this is the first time the City has auctioned gifts to past mayors, and New Yorkers have a chance to purchase items they won’t get anywhere else.

    NYC DORIS Commissioner Pauline Toole says that purchasers will receive a special certificate of provenance certifying that the item sold at auction is an authentic gift originally received by a Mayor of the City of New York.

    The auction is taking place entirely online and will last between one to three weeks.

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  • NYC Mayor appoints nine new Commissioners, reappoints 15 Commissioners to CGE

    NEW YORK: New York City Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointments and reappointments of 24 commissioners to the New York City Commission on Gender Equity (CGE).

    As per details available on the official website of the City of New York, the commissioners will advise CGE on dismantling institutional and societal discrimination and inequities for girls, women, intersex, transgender, and gender non-conforming and non-binary persons regardless of age, ability, ethnicity/race, faith, gender expression, immigration status, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.

    “The Commission on Gender Equity is transforming lives by educating New Yorkers about economic mobility, safeguarding health and reproductive rights, and ensuring safety in our communities. Today, I’m proud to announce the reappointments of Jacqueline Ebanks as the executive director of the Commission on Gender Equity and Silda Palerm as chair, as well as announce our full slate of commissioners,” said Mayor Adams.

    “I look forward to the continued collaboration across our agencies to reinforce equity and dismantle institutionalized practices that have been unfair for too long to people across our city.”

    CGE commissioners are community leaders, advocates, and founders of nonprofits and other organizations that break down gendered barriers across New York City and will be a significant driving force as ambassadors to achieve CGE’s strategic planning goals. These commissioners will also work toward broader gender equity efforts in the Adams administration and for the people of New York City.

    The nine newly appointed commissioners are:

    • Damian Ashton, director of communications, Equimundo: Center for Masculinities and Social Justice
    • Jennifer Barnes-Balenciaga, director, Crystal La’Beija Organizing Fellowship
    • Carol Bullock, executive director, Pride Center of Staten Island
    • Callie Chamberlain, director of Social Responsibility, Optum
    • Miriam F. Clark, partner, Ritz Clark & Ben-Asher LLP
    • Anne Marie Goetz, clinical professor, New York University
    • Seher Khawaja, senior attorney for economic empowerment, Legal Momentum, The Women’s Legal Defense and Education Fund
    • Emily Miles, executive director, New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault
    • Jason Tan de Bibiana, research and evaluation director, Next Gen Men

    The 15 reappointed commissioners are:

    • Shahara Ahmad-Llewellyn, president, Shahara Ahmad-Llewellyn Family Foundation
    • Sasha Ahuja, national director of strategic partnerships, Planned Parenthood Federation of America
    • Taina Bien-Aimé, executive director, Coalition Against Trafficking in Women
    • Beverly Cooper Neufeld, president and founder, PowHer New York
    • Andrea Hagelgans, managing director, U.S. social issues engagement, Edelman
    • Imara Jones, founder and CEO, TransLash Media
    • Sherry Leiwant, co-president and co-founder, A Better Balance
    • Robina Niaz, founder and executive director, Turning Point for Women and Families
    • Sonia Ossorio, president, National Organization for Women – New York City
    • Silda Palerm, partner, Vestry Laight, LLC; and chair, Commission on Gender Equity
    • Chanel Porchia-Albert, founder and CEO, Ancient Song Doula Services
    • Kiara Saint James, executive director, New York Transgender Advocacy Group
    • Celeste Smith, managing director, Mosaic Genius
    • Beverly Tillery, executive director, New York City Anti-Violence Project
    • Shyama Venkateswar, senior director, Learning at Seramount/EAB

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  • NY governor signs two bills to prevent hate crimes and protect New Yorkers

    Web Desk:

    Responding to the series of hate crimes NY Governor Kathy Hochul announced actions to prevent hate crimes, promote tolerance, and protect New Yorkers.

    The Governor signed two pieces of legislation to support hate crime prevention and education efforts, building on the administration’s efforts to increase funding to protect targets of hate crimes and increase surveillance and protection for communities at risk.

    Governor Hochul signed legislation that requires individuals convicted of hate crimes to, in addition to other penalties, undergoes mandatory training or counseling in hate crime prevention and education.

    Photo Courtesy: flickr.com

    The second legislation establishes a statewide campaign for the acceptance, inclusion, tolerance, and understanding of diversity, including, but not limited to diversity based on religion, race, color, creed, sex, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

    Governor Hochul said that New York belongs to the good, not those with hate in their hearts. Governor said that we’re taking bold action to reclaim our city and state from the haters, bigots, and white supremacists.

    Governor says that domestic-based violent extremism is the greatest threat to our homeland security, and that is why we continue to remain laser-focused on combatting hate and keeping New Yorkers safe.”

    Governor Hochul also encouraged community-based organizations to apply for $50 million in available funding to strengthen safety measures and protect against hate crimes and extended the deadline for applications.

    Both pieces of legislation promote educational initiatives, which serve as key tools to further tolerance and acceptance, and in turn help keep communities safe from hateful acts and violence.

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