Gentile Stands In Solidarity With ConEd Workers, Commends Speaker Quinn For Demanding Solution, End To Lockout

By on July 12, 2012  News, Politics
Jul 122012
 

Image of Con Edison building courtesy of Stig Nygaard.

The following is a press release from the office of City Councilman Vincent Gentile:

COUNCILMAN GENTILE STANDS IN SOLIDARITY WITH UWUA LOCAL 1-2; COMMENDS SPEAKER QUINN FOR DEMANDING CONED FIND SOLUTION TO LABOR DISPUTE

BAY RIDGE– Struggling with its first work stoppage in nearly three decades, while desperately trying to keep the electricity grid running during a July heat wave, ConEd has deployed 5,000 of its managers to stand in for the nearly 8,500 unionized workers who were dismissed on July 1 after contract talks broke down.

At least three managers have already been seriously injured trying to do the work of regular field workers while services such as meter readings and customer service walk-in centers have almost all been completely shut down.

Earlier today, Speaker Christine C. Quinn released a letter calling on ConEd to resume negotiations with UWUA Local 1-2 without the lockout. The letter urges ConEd to place the protection of New Yorkers as its highest priority and resolve the dispute without further delay.

“Let me be clear. Your actions do not have my support,” Speaker Quinn writes Continue reading »

Summer In The City: Some Tips To Keep You Cool

By on June 20, 2012  Health & Fitness
Jun 202012
 

Image source: olga.palma via Flickr.

As today’s Solstice marks the official first day of summer, the weather is certainly responding in kind.

High humidity and near record temperatures are expected to usher in summer over the next 2-3 days, reports NBC.

The forecast is calling for a high around 94 degrees Wednesday, though the heat index will make the temperature feel closer to 100.

The dog days are expected to continue into Thursday, with an expected high of 97.

The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for New York City, the Lower Hudson Valley, and northern Nassau County “from noon Wednesday through 8 p.m. Thursday. An air quality health advisory has also been issued.”

Please keep the following tips in mind over the next few days, in order to ensure that the hot weather doesn’t adversely affect your health:

  • Drink plenty of fluids such as water and fruit juices to prevent dehydration — be aware that alcohol can impair the body’s sweat mechanism, as can fairly common medications such as antihistamines and diuretics;
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes;
  • Avoid direct sunlight by staying in the shade or by wearing sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses;
  • When possible, stay in air-conditioned areas. If your home is not air-conditioned, consider a visit to a shopping mall or public library. Contact 311, or visit www.nyc.gov to locate a cooling center near you.
  • NEVER leave pets or young children in a car, even with the windows cracked;
  • Check on elderly relatives or neighbors at least daily; and
  • Take it easy when outdoors. Athletes and those who work outdoors should take short breaks when feeling fatigued. Schedule physical activity during the morning or evening when it is cooler.