
STATEWIDE — THE NEW YORK STATE Department of Corrections and the NYS Correctional Officers & Police Benevolent Association, after several days of arbitration, reached a tentative agreement late Thursday that could end the ongoing illegal strike in state prisons, arbitrator Martin Scheinmann said. During the strike, some prisoners were left in potentially dangerous conditions with minimal food and medical care, and Gov. Kathy Hochul called in the National Guard. Under the terms, the HALT Act, which bars long-term solitary confinement, will continue to be suspended for 90 days, and beyond that time can be further suspended if staffing levels fall below a certain level. The agreement also covers other areas, such as overtime pay and shifts.
“Working with a mediator, we have reached a consent award to address many of the concerns raised by correction officers, put DOCCS back on the path to safe operations, respect the rights of incarcerated individuals and prevent future unsanctioned work stoppages,” Hochul said in a statement late Thursday.
However, Jerome Wright, co-director of the #HALTsolitary Campaign, said in a release, “Today’s illegal agreement aims to maintain a racist regime of torture, brutality, and death. DOCCS does not have the authority to suspend the HALT Solitary Confinement Law. Let’s be clear that they are simply violating the law and people will be tortured and die as a result.”
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SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.