THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | MARCH 9, 2023

CREEP OF FAITH OF FAITH

Man in Religious Garb Disguise Shot ManinReligiousGarbDisguiseShot and Killed Victim on South Ozone Park and Killed Victim on South Ozone Park Street in September 2021: DA Street in September 2021: DA

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

Wearing a mask and garments like those typically worn by Hasidic Jewish men, Ron Reeder allegedly a mask and garments like those worn Hasidic Jewish men, Ron Reeder ran up behind Jermaine Dixon, shot him in the head in broad daylight on 132nd Street, and fled. ran up behind Jermaine Dixon, shot him in the head in broad on 132nd Street, and fled.

New Jersey Man Indicted for 2021 Execution-Style Murder in South Ozone Park

By Michael V. Cusenza

A New Jersey man has been indicted for an execution-style murder in broad daylight in September 2021, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced on Monday.

Wearing a mask and religious garments as a disguise, Ron Reeder, 53, ran up behind the victim, who was entering a car parked on a South Ozone Park street, and

shot him in the head.

Reeder was arraigned on a four-count indictment charging him with murder in the first degree, murder in the second degree and two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. Reeder was ordered by Justice Ushir Pandit-Durant to return to court on March 14.

According to the indictment, on Sept. 6, 2021, at approximately 7:50 a.m., Jermaine Dixon, 46, was entering a car parked

on 132nd Street off South Conduit Avenue when Reeder approached him. Wearing a mask and garments like those typically worn by Hasidic Jewish men, Reeder ran up behind Dixon, shot him in the head and fled.

Reeder was arrested Feb. 23 at his residence in Bergen County, New Jersey.

“This shooting in broad daylight was as brazen as it was cold-blooded and calculat-

ed. The defendant evaded justice for some time, but the tireless efforts of law enforcement led to his arrest and he will now be held to account for his alleged actions,” Katz said before thanking the Bergen County prosecutor’s office for its assistance with the investigation.

If convicted, Reeder faces up to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Council Votes to Strengthen Fire Safety Related to E-Bikes and Lithium-ion Batteries

By Michael V. Cusenza

The City Council recently voted in favor of a legislative package strengthening fire safety of e-bikes and scooters, and the lithium-ion batteries that power those devices.

“We must reduce the avoidable fire tragedies caused by the wide proliferation of uncertified lithium-ion batteries. These bills are an initial step to increase public education and reduce the growing commercial circulation of uncertified batteries that pose the greatest danger,” Council Speaker Adrienne Adams said. “There is continued work to do with all stakeholders, particularly our deliveristas, to support livelihoods and safety.

Introduction 663-A, sponsored by Councilman Oswald Feliz, would restrict the sale, lease, or rental of powered mobility devices, such as e-bikes and electric scooters, and storage batteries for the devices that fail to meet recognized safety standard certification.

In order to be legally sold, these devices and their storage batteries would be required to have been certified as meeting the applicable Underwriters Laboratories (UL) safety standards by an accredited testing laboratory. The testing laboratory logo or name would be required to be displayed

on the product packaging or documentation, or on the vehicle or battery itself, to aid in enforcement.

Introduction 656-A, sponsored by Councilwoman Gale Brewer, would require the FDNY, in consultation with the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP), to develop an information campaign to educate the public on the fire risks posed by powered mobility devices such as e-bikes and electric scooters. The campaign would be required to include

guidance on how to identify safe products, as well as best practices for maintenance, storage, and charging.

Introduction 752-A, also sponsored by Brewer, would restrict the assembly and reconditioning of lithium-ion batteries with cells removed from used batteries, and their commercial sale.

Introduction 749-A, sponsored by Councilwoman Alexa Avilés, would require DCWP to develop and publish educational materials on e-bike safety risks and

mitigation measures materials for delivery workers. It would also require third-party delivery apps, such as Seamless and UberEats, to distribute these materials to their delivery workers.

Introduction 722-A, sponsored by Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth), would require the FDNY to submit five reports (one per year for five years) related to fire risks associated with powered mobility devices, such as e-bikes and electric scooters. These reports would include data on fires caused by the devices, actions taken by FDNY to reduce the risks, and recommendations to further decrease risks.

“With the growing use of lithium-ion batteries, we must have a better understanding of the risks associated with these batteries and what we can do to mitigate those risks,” said Holden. “Intro 722-A will help the FDNY to stay ahead of the curve and be better prepared to respond to any incidents involving lithium-ion batteries.”

Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), a co-sponsor of Holden’s bill, penned an op-ed back in December in the Queens Eagle under the headline “Lithium-ion battery legislation is imperative for a safer New York.”

“We don’t want people to lose their livelihoods,” Ariola wrote, “but we also don’t want people to lose their lives in otherwise preventable fires.”

Courtesy of NYPD

Reeder, decked out in a religious garment disguise, pretends to work on his car as Jermaine Dixon approaches his own vehicle.

Courtesy of NYPD

Reeder allegedly fleeing, gun in hand, right after shooting Dixon in the head.

“With the growing use of lithium-ion batteries, we must have a better understanding of the risks associated with these batteries and what we can do to mitigate those risks,” Councilman Holden said.

Adams Unveils Mental Health Agenda

By Forum Staff

Mayor Eric Adams and City Health Commissioner Ashwin Vasan, M.D., recently launched “Care, Community, Action: A Mental Health Plan for New York City,” a mental health agenda — with over $20 million in new commitments — that will, according to Adams and Vasan, invest in child and family mental health, addressing the overdose crisis, and supporting New Yorkers living with serious mental illness (SMI).

While few models of a holistic youth mental health system exist, the long-term benefits of early intervention are potentially greater than with any other group. The need is also becoming clearer, with rates of depression among youth rising. As announced in Mayor Adams’ State of the City address in January, the city will invest $12 million to launch an expansive telehealth program for New York City high school aged teens, connecting them with mental health care. The city will also launch suicide prevention pilot programming at NYC Health + Hospitals for youth entering emergency departments for suicide attempts and community-based suicide prevention programming to specifically serve Black and Brown youth.

The year 2021 was the deadliest year on record for fatal overdoses in the city, with racial and geographic disparities worsening — reflecting trends of the national crisis. To tackle the opioid epidemic, the mental health agenda outlines how the city will expand access to high-quality harm reduction services and sets a goal of reducing overdose deaths by 15 percent by 2025.

To meet this goal, Adams said the City will expand non-fatal overdose response efforts to at least three additional hospital emergency departments and strengthen the 14 syringe-service providers into a network of Harm Reduction Hubs with comprehensive services like a place to rest, addiction services, and medical and mental health services.

The City will also expand drug-checking services and implement at least four Public Health Vending Machines that dispense naloxone to increase access in neighborhoods with high rates of overdoses — the first of its kind in the five boroughs. New York will additionally increase support for children, families, and communities affected by the overdose crisis and work to reduce the number of people who develop problematic substance use.

Finally, the City will explore opportunities to expand overdose prevention centers (OPCs) to areas of the city with the highest rates of overdose death, continue to support the two existing OPCs with the goal of allowing them to operate 24 hours per day, and also continue to advocate for legal pathways to fund and operate OPCs.

This plan focuses on connecting New Yorkers with SMI with four pillars of care: health care, housing, community, and crisis response. The city aims to double the number of connections of New Yorkers living with SMI with community-based care over the next four years, putting thousands more New Yorkers on a path to stability. As part of this effort, the city will also expand mobile treatment capacity over the next year to serve 800 more people with high service needs through Intensive Mobile Treatment and Assertive Community Treatment. To expand housing options for people with SMI, the city will add an additional 8,000 units of supportive housing, and invest $7 million more to significantly increase Clubhouse capacity over the next four years.

The mental health agenda additionally outlines how the city will strengthen the crisis response systems, expanding the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) pilot program citywide to respond to more mental health-related crises with a health-led response and adding two peers to every mobile crisis team to divert people in crisis from unnecessary hospitalizations.

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Mayor Adams last week launched “Care, Community, Action: A Mental Health Plan for New York City”.

Housecleaning Company and CEO Plead Guilty in Wage Theft

By Forum Staff

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, joined by State Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon, recently announced that the MPStar Pros housecleaning company and its chief executive officer have pleaded guilty to charges stemming from stealing wages from employees.

The Forest Hills company advertised for apartment cleaners, hired them, allowed

them to clean and then did not pay for their work, withholding more than $54,000 from the employees between 2020 and 2022. As part of the plea deal, the company will have to make full restitution to the 23 victims.

MPStar Pros Chief Executive Officer Christian Perez, 37, of Forest Hills, pleaded guilty to disorderly conduct before Queens Acting Supreme Court Justice Jerry Iannece and was sentenced to a conditional discharge. His housecleaning company,

MPStar Pros, pleaded guilty to a felony, scheme to defraud, and as part of the plea must make full restitution to the workers, paying them the more than $54,000 unpaid wages.

Additionally, MPStar Pros is required to pay $10,000 that will be held in escrow by the Queens District Attorney’s office in the event additional victims of the scheme are identified.

According to the charges, MPStar Pros advertised via Facebook, Craigslist and other social media sites for persons to clean residential apartments for various clients, including short-term apartment rental op-

erators. Many of the victims were asked to work during the height of the COVID pandemic, risking their lives to support their families. After the workers completed their jobs, MPStar Pros did not pay them their wages.

“At the height of the pandemic, these workers risked their lives to support their families only to fall victim to a gutless scam. I created a worker protection bureau to punish this very kind of shameless exploitation,” Katz said. “An honest day’s work deserves and honest day’s pay and that is what we made sure will be the case for these workers.”

Photo Courtesy of Google

MPStar Pros housecleaning company is located on Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills.

File Photo

“At the height of the pandemic, these workers risked their lives to support their families only to fall victim to a gutless scam,” DA Katz said.

Adams Touts Plan to Handle Asylum Seekers

PHARMACISTS & PHYSICIANS COLLABORATING FOR BETTER PATIENT CARE

It used to be a common perception among physicians and other health care professional that the role of the community pharmacist was basically limited to filling prescriptions and following their orders.

But thankfully with progression of time and the advances in technology, the role of the community pharmacist in their patients health care has escalated to a point that serves the pool of patients dependant on their medications in ways it never has before.

to address these critical issues.

Over 95% of community pharmacists and physicians agree that mutual cooperation among themselves is a vital tool in improving patient outcomes.

Additional areas of the benefits of healthcare professionals working together include making recommendations to modify patient's drug therapies and providing drug information to aid in the selection of medications.

By Forum Staff

Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday released “The Road Forward: Blueprint to Address New York City’s Response to the Asylum Seeker Crisis,” a comprehensive approach outlining the next phase of the city’s response to the unprecedented humanitarian crisis resulting from the surge of asylum seekers arriving in the five boroughs since last spring. As the number of asylum seekers arriving in New York City since last April tops 50,000—with more than 30,000 currently in the city’s care—Adams announced he will create the Office of Asylum Seeker Operations (OASO) to focus solely on coordinating the city’s continued response with a focus on resettlement and legal services, as well as a new 24/7 arrival center for asylum seekers.

The new OASO will oversee interagency coordination, manage advocacy to state and federal governments, and lead the following initiatives to help newly arrived asylum seekers chart a course towards selfsufficiency and long-term resettlement:

• Emergency Housing, Long-Term Housing, and Resettlement: The city will explore potential short- and long-term strategies regarding housing, including partnerships with religious institutions and exploring innovative ways to finance new affordable housing. The city is also launching an innovative pilot with The Center for Discovery and SUNY Sullivan to offer 100 asylum seekers the opportunity to live at the SUNY Sullivan campus and receive workforce training as they move through the federal work authorization process. Finally, the city will engage national nonprofits and houses of worship to offer asylum seekers a wider array of relocation choices, including pre-vetted cities and municipalities that welcome asylum seekers.

• Workforce Development: Currently, asylum seekers are federally mandated to apply for work permits, which can mean years of waiting before a permit is granted and issued. As the city continues to advo-

cate for changes on the federal level to expedite work authorizations, the city will help asylees understand the process to move as quickly as possible through it, and ensure they are ready to obtain employment when they are legally authorized to do so. In addition, the city will provide Occupational Safety and Health Administration training in a variety of in-demand industries, including health care and construction, to further prepare asylum seekers for employment.

• Legal Services: To ensure asylum seekers are equipped to better navigate the immigration process and avoid immigration services fraud, the city will develop a centralized entry point system to help asylum seekers navigate the federal immigration process. This will include a coordinated strategy to ensure asylum seekers are aware of important dates and deadlines regarding their case, and connections to appropriate services, such as orientation sessions and pro se (self-help) application assistance events.

• Engaging All New Yorkers: Faith based groups, community organizations, and philanthropic and corporate partners, as well as every day New Yorkers have stepped up since the beginning of this crisis, providing support in the form of food, clothing, shelter, information, workforce development, health care, education, language instruction, job training, resources, and more. The city will hold a series of roundtables with stakeholders to learn directly from them and devise new ways they can participate. Additionally, the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City’s Asylum Seeker Relief Fund will continue working to raise $25 million from philanthropic organizations and corporations to support the city’s collective response.

• Interstate and Interagency Coordination and Engagement: OASO will convene other cities and localities facing similar issues to advocate for more decisive action on the federal level to address the asylum seeker crisis.

Today, whether it's a matter of the complex reporting of medication histories to health databases or the simple act of sending a fax, the need for pharmacies to collaborate and communicate with prescribers on many more levels than ever before has led to increased health and awareness among patients.

Common sense tells us that pharmacists are like first responders where medication is concerned. The integral role we play in today's complicated health care system is continually expanding and contributing to ensuring a standard of excellence in patient healthcare that can save more lives.

To begin with, pharmacists are well aware that we can’t always rely on patients to remember some important details or in some cases, to tell the whole truth when faced with questions about their medication adherence. Key communication with physicians and other members of a patients healthcare team is working everyday

Pharmacists play a key role in assisting with medication insurance claims, helping patients navigate their way through the often frustrating and confusing world of health coverage.

We also now assist in the adjustment of medication dosages, provide information about drug interactions, help patients adhere to a proper schedule of medication and the management of side effects.

Admittedly there are some concerns with barriers that exist in the expanding integration of pharmacists and physicians, such as the potential for the fragmentation of patient care, concern over liability where shared responsibility and information exists and of course the amount of time needed to invest. But none of those have put a damper on the willingness to work together to guarantee the better health of our patients. and it is obvious in the medical community that there is a widespread desire for the continuance of these relationships that clearly benefit our collective patients.

For your family’s prescription needs, please call CROSS BAY CHEMIST at 718-659-9500 or 718-880-1644

in

Cat-astrophe in South Queens

Heinous animal-harm discoveries in two South Queens communities over the past several weeks have caught the attention of the City Police Department and the ASPCA.

Last weekend, 14 dead cats were discovered behind a chain link fence along 102nd Street in Howard Beach. The ASPCA is performing necropsies on all 14 cats.

In a possibly related case, stray cats (one is pictured) have been rescued starting last month in Richmond Hill— and rescuers are saying the cats’ injuries are consistent with torture.

The NYPD is investigating both cases. Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers at 800-577-TIPS.

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Mayor Eric Adams

Photo Courtesy of Puppy Kitty NYC

Glendale Man Charged with Possessing Arsenal of Illegal Weapons

By Forum Staff

A Glendale man has been charged with criminal possession of weapons after search warrants executed at his home and a storage unit uncovered an arsenal of firearms and ammunition, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced on Saturday.

Grzegorz Blachowicz, 36, was arraigned on a 131-count complaint charging him with attempted criminal possession of a weapon in the first degree, three counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, 26 counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, 11 counts of attempted criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree, two counts of criminal possession of a firearm, 18 counts of attempted criminal possession of a firearm, 65 counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree, criminal possession of a rapid-fire modification device, two counts of unlawful purchase of body armor and two counts of unlawful possession of pistol ammunition.If convicted, Blachowicz faces up to 15 years in prison.

According to the charges, members of

the Queens District Attorney’s office were conducting a long-term investigation into the purchase of polymer-based, unserialized firearm components by the defendant. These components are easily assembled into operable firearms without serial numbers—commonly referred to as “ghost guns”—that enable users to skirt background checks.

Last Wednesday, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant of the defendants’ multi-family Glendale residence and recovered:

• One fully assembled Polymer 80 semiautomatic assault pistol ghost gun with the ability to accept a detachable magazine and a threaded barrel;

• One Glock model rapid fire modification device;

• One 1911 model full ghost gun build kit;

• Two Beretta model ghost gun build kits;

• One large-capacity ammunition feeding device capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition;

• Fifteen additional magazines;

• Four blank model Mac-11 and Mac-10 ghost gun frames;

• Two bullet-resistant vests;

• One taser;

• Ammunition of various calibers;

• Various manuals for firearms including an M16A1 rifle, AK-47, browning hipower pistol, SKS rifle and others;

• Tools and materials used to manufacture and/or assemble ghost guns;

Additionally, a court-authorized search warrant was later obtained and executed at a Glendale storage facility owned by Blachowicz, where law enforcement officials recovered:

• Nine complete ghost gun assault

weapon build kits, with the ability to accept a detachable magazine and a threaded barrel, for four assault rifle models;

• One complete ghost gun semiautomatic 9mm assault pistol build kit, with the ability to accept a detachable magazine and a threaded barrel;

• One complete Sig Sauer 9mm pistol build kit;

• Five complete Polymer 80 semiautomatic ghost gun pistol build kits, for the following models and calibers:.45caliber, 9mm Glock 17, 9mm Glock-26, 9mm Glock-43, and.22LR-caliber;

• Two complete model AK-47 assault rifle ghost gun build kits;

• Twenty-five “solvent traps,” that can be readily made into firearm suppressors or silencers;

• Twelve unfinished lower receivers;

• One model 1911 lower receivers;

• Twenty-four assault rifle lower receivers;

• Over 207 large capacity ammunition feeding devices capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition;

• Thousands of rounds of various ammunition, in the following calibers:.45 caliber, 9mm, 5.56 caliber,.22LR-caliber, 7.62 caliber, 300 blackout, 308 winmag, 12-gauge buck, and 25 caliber,

• One ghost gunner, which is a CNC milling machine that gives the owner the ability to take unfinished lower receivers and convert them into components that can be further completed to build fully functioning firearms.

If convicted, Blachowicz faces up to 15 years in prison.

Law Enforcement Officials Recover 23 Stolen Vehicles at Port of New York/Newark

By Forum Staff

Last month, U. S. Customs and Border Protection at the Port of New York/Newark conducted a five-day operation named “Operation Terminus,” to detect and recover stolen vehicles being shipped out of the country, CBP officials revealed on Tuesday.

CBP worked with Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Department of Commerce, the New Jersey State Police, the NYPD Auto Crime Unit, the Hudson County, N.J. Sheriff ’s Office, the Port Authority Police Department—Criminal Investigation Bureau, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau.

Operation Terminus concluded on Feb. 17, with a total of 23 stolen vehicles recovered, all of which were destined for Western African countries (Togo, Ghana, Burkina Faso, Monrovia, and Liberia) with an estimated value of $1,333,425. Additionally, 109 rounds of various ammunition were discovered concealed in a vehicle destined for Nigeria.

“Identifying, degrading, and disrupting transnational networks requires a multilayered approach that includes a focus on analytics and partnerships,” said TenaVel Thomas, CBP port director, Port of New

York/Newark. “CBP is proud to leverage our unique authorities, data holdings, and analytical abilities, combined with our robust collaboration with our federal, state, and local partners to dismantle these networks. These partnerships are the cornerstone of our recent success.”

Recovered

14. 2021 BMW 540 XI $53,355.00

15. 2020 Jeep Wrangler $52,220.00

16. 2019 Honda CRV $28,000.00

17. 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLS

18. 2020 Honda CRV $29,000.00

19. 2022 Chevrolet Suburban $74,800.00

vehicles:

1. 2021 Mercedes-Benz G55 $155,850.00

2. 2020 Mercedes-Benz S560 $73,775.00

3. 2021 Land Rover HSE Sport $79,995.00

4. 2022 Jeep Wagoneer $69,990.00

5. 2021 BMW X7 $63,985.00

6. 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe $26,850.00

7. 2022 Lexus RX 350 $48,995.00

8. 2021 Honda CRV $30,990.00

9.

Photo Courtesy of DA Katz

This “ghost gunner”, or CNC milling machine that gives the owner the ability to take unfinished lower receivers and convert them into components that can be further completed to build fully functioning firearms, was allegedly found in Blachowicz’s storage facility.

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Tokumeigakarinoaoshima The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G55

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Kevauto The 2020 Jeep Wrangler

Pol Highlights Record-Setting First Year of Mobile

Betting, Resources for Problem Gamblers

By Forum Staff

New York enjoyed a record-setting first year of legal mobile sports betting in 2022, raking in more than $1 billion in gross gaming revenue, and over $700 million in tax revenue for the Empire State, with a majority of those funds going towards the education system. And while this is a time to cel-

ebrate these incredible achievements, State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) said he believes we also need to continue looking at how the State can help those with a gambling problem.

As mobile sports betting became legal at the beginning of 2022, Addabbo worked closely with problem gaming entities like the New York Council on Problem Gam-

bling (NYCPG) and the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) to ensure that safeguards were implemented in all the available mobile sports betting apps, as well as $6 million dollars in new funding for problem gaming education and treatment each year.

“Mobile sports betting has been a great new revenue source for the State and New York quickly became one of the most popular products in the country. Now that we have legalized and regulated mobile sports betting in our state, we are able to identify the people that may have or be in the process of developing a gaming problem,” said Addabbo, chairman of the Senate Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee. “Through the safeguards on the apps, like freezing accounts, reporting and the self-exclusion option, our hope is to reach these people before they become addicted and prevent them from the pitfalls of gaming addiction.”

As the Legislature looks at possibly expanding gaming in New York with iGaming — which would allow residents to wager on casino games like poker, roulette, blackjack and more online — Addabbo said he knows that the State cannot move forward with any expansion of gaming without also bolstering gambling addiction prevention and treatment resources.

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month. If you or someone you know

has a gambling problem, please call the free, confidential, 24/7 HOPEline at 1-877-8-HOPENY or Text HOPENY (467369).

Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza New York raked in more than $1 billion in gross gaming revenue in 2022.

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo

“Now that we have legalized and regulated mobile sports betting in our state, we are able to identify the people that may have or be in the process of developing a gaming problem,” Sen. Addabbo said.

Lunch Blockbusters

If you think we are just breakfast, think again.

AVAILABLE 11:30 - 2:30

Steer Clear

You won't be asking where the beef is after your first bite of Nana's succulent house ground chicken burger. Served on grilled brioche, with tomato, avocado mousse and shoe string fries on the side.

Paddy Whack Smash

Two prime beef patties, Cheddar, Mozarella, Swiss or American Cheese, with caramelized onions on Brioche or Ciabatta. Served with shoestring fries.

Lean & Mean

House smoked Pastrami or Corned

Beef on Polish Rye or club roll, whole grain mustard, half sour pickle. add shoestring fries $3.50 add house made spicy slaw $2.50 add Rueben package $6.50

House Cobb

Iceberg wedge, grilled organic chicken breast, Blue crumble, Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes dressed in house ranch or Blue cheese. add grilled chicken $3.50 add grilled shrimp $5.00

The BLT

Thick slab Applewood Bacon meets up with heirloom tomato and crisp organic greens on your choice of toasted sourdough, country white or polish rye dressed in house citrus blend or avocado mousse. Served with shoestring fries.

Nanagiana

Your choice chicken or eggplant. Golden browned eggplant planks or organic chicken breast, house marinara, finished with fresh Mozzarella served on grilled Ciabatta.

Grilled Chicken Caesar

Iced romaine, organic chicken breast, capers and house hail Ceasar cream dressing.

Grilled Shrimp Caesar add $5.

Ruben Rolls

Our twist on the classic egg roll, two golden fried rolls stuffed with house made corned beef, barrel cured sauerkraut and melted Swiss served with house made Ruben dip.

House Chopt

Mixed greens, Bell peppers, golden beets, carrots, Heirloom Cherry Tomato and slivered Bermuda onion. Dressed in your choice of lemon aioli or creamy avocado. add grilled chicken $3.50 add grilled shrimp $5.00

Council Committee on Environmental Protection Expands to Include Resiliency and Waterfronts

By Forum Staff

The portfolio of the City Council's Committee on Environmental Protection has been expanded to include the responsibilities of the former Committee on Resiliency and Waterfronts, Councilman Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) announced Monday.

The panel’s new name will be the Committee on Environmental Protection, Resiliency and Waterfronts. Gennaro, a geologist and environmental scientist, will continue to lead the newly expanded committee. Its members include Council Members Jennifer Gutierrez, Kamillah Hanks, Robert F. Holden, Julie Menin, Sandy Nurse and Lincoln Restler.

Both committees played a vital role in ensuring New York City is sustainable for future generations. The City Council's Committee on Environmental Protection is responsible for overseeing and developing policies related to environmental protection and sustainability. The committee is responsible for reviewing and proposing legislation on issues such as air and water quality, climate change, and conservation of natural resources. The New York City Council's Committee on Resiliency and Waterfronts was responsible for overseeing and developing policies related to the city's waterfront and its ability to withstand natural disasters and climate change. The

committee was focused on promoting resiliency and preparedness in the face of potential flooding, sea-level rise, and extreme weather events. The consolidation of these committees aims to streamline the process of developing environmental and resiliency policies with similar goals.

“I am confident that the move to merge these two committees will benefit the council’s ability to deal more effectively with all of New York City’s environmental, resilien-

cy, and waterfront challenges, which intersect and overlap,” Gennaro said. “My expertise as an environmental scientist, combined with my decades of experience in environmental policy, will allow me to lead this newly expanded committee equipped with the knowledge and partnerships to protect the city’s coastal areas.”

Gennaro has more than 40 years of experience in City and State government. Between 1990 and 2001, Gennaro served

as the senior environmental policy adviser to City Council Speaker Peter Vallone, Sr. Gennaro was first elected to the City Council in 2002, where he represented the 24th Council District and chaired the Committee on Environmental Protection for three terms (2002-2013). From 2014 to 2020, Gennaro served the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation as deputy commissioner for New York City Sustainability and Resiliency. In February 2021, Gennaro won re-election to the Council in a special election, and once again became chairman of the Committee on Environmental Protection.

Gennaro has received numerous accolades for his work as Chair of the New York City Council's Committee on Environmental Protection, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Lifetime Achievement Award for Environmental Policymaking in 2013. Gennaro has authored more than fi ft y landmark environmental laws, has spearheaded efforts to cut the City's global warming pollution emissions, protect and restore Jamaica Bay, put more “clean air” vehicles on our streets, reduce toxic pesticide use, make the City's electricity more reliable, clean, and affordable, protect the city’s remaining natural areas, and promote “green buildings.” He has also led the fight against unjust increases in water and sewer rates.

Pols Discuss Civil Service Program, Address Vacancy Challenges during Workforce Development Hearing

By Michael V. Cusenza

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) this week co-chaired the State Workforce Development Hearing, using the nearly five-hour confab to question New York labor officials, including the State Labor commissioner, the commissioner for the Department of Civil Service, and the director of the Governor’s Office of Employee Relations about the

State’s civil service program and vacancy challenges.

Pheffer Amato’s questions focused on reforming the State’s civil service sector. The assemblywoman said her goal is to get more individuals “aware of the options of working as a public employee, while safeguarding our retirees.” During her questioning, Pheffer Amato received support from union leaders and commissioners on her proposal for administering civil service

exams more frequently, reforming aspects of the Tier 6 retirement plan, and ensuring benefits and pensions for retirees.

“By growing the number of public employees, we grow our middle class and give every individual the option to obtain the best future. We can also never forget the men and women who have worked for our communities, which is why I am committed to protecting their pensions and benefits,” said Pheffer Amato.

The State Legislature and Gov. Kathy Hochul are currently in the process of negotiating the budget. Pheffer Amato said she has been adamant about providing support for current and retired public employees. The assemblywoman serves as chairwoman of the Assembly Committee on Governmental Employees, which is the leading legislative authority on civil service, pensions and retirement benefits for active and retired public employees.

Photo Courtesy of Emil Cohen/NY City Council City Councilman Jim Gennaro

Photo Courtesy of NY State LegislaturePhoto Courtesy of NY State Legislature

Three Former City Correction Officers Plead Guilty to Sick Leave Fraud

By Forum Staff

Former City Correction Officer Eduardo Trinidad has pleaded guilty to federal program fraud, admitting that he fraudulently obtained his salary from the City Department of Correction (DOC) by taking sick leave even though he was able to work, federal prosecutors announced Tuesday.

Last month, former City Correction Officers Steven Cange and Monica Coaxum also pleaded guilty to the same charge.

“The defendants have admitted stealing taxpayer funds by collecting their full salaries while falsely claiming they were too sick to work,” said Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace. “Sick leave abuse is a plague on the New York City Department of Correction that puts fellow officers and inmates at risk during the ongoing staffing crisis in the jails. This Office is working with our federal and local law enforcement partners to identify those who exploit the sick leave policy and hold them accountable.”

According to court documents and facts presented at the guilty plea proceedings, Cange, 49, fraudulently obtained more

than $139,000 in salary while on sick leave from March 2021 to November 2022. During that period of time, Cange submitted more than 100 fraudulent medical notes to DOC claiming that he was at physical therapy or another medical provider when records subpoenaed from those providers demonstrate that Cange was not at those appointments. Law enforcement also observed Cange engaging in normal life activities with no apparent difficulty.

Coaxum, 36, fraudulently obtained more than $80,000 in salary while on sick leave from March 2021 to April 2022, and Trinidad, her fiancée, fraudulently obtained more than $119,000 in salary while on sick leave from June 2021 to October 2022. Although Coaxum claimed to suffer from multiple injuries, evidence collected by investigators showed that she was able to work. During her sick leave, Coaxum submitted nearly 50 fraudulent medical notes to DOC stating that she had gone to a medical appointment at a time when law enforcement determined she was elsewhere. Additionally, evidence showed that on some occasions when Coaxum claimed

to be injured and at home, she was traveling and attending parties.

Trinidad, 42, also claimed that he was unable to work for over a year due to an

injury. But video and photographic surveillance showed Trinidad performing home improvement work, bowling, and traveling abroad without any difficulty or help from equipment like an orthopedic boot, sling or cane which he used when attending required check-ins with DOC medical officials.

The defendants were arrested in November 2022 and resigned from the DOC in January 2023.

“These correction officers faked medical documentation to take sick leave they were not entitled to in the midst of a city jail staffing crisis,” said City Department of Investigation Commissioner Jocelyn Strauber. “They violated DOC policy, and they broke the law. Their conduct — including travel around the country, partying, bowling, and home repairs, on stolen sick leave time — is an insult to the correction officers who do their jobs, who show up to work and risk their personal safety on a daily basis.”

When sentenced, all three defendants face a maximum term of 10 years’ imprisonment.

Springfield Gardens Man Indicted in Car Crash that Killed Off-Duty Cop

By Forum Staff

A Springfield Gardens man has been charged with manslaughter and drunk driving in connection with a fatal car crash in January 2020 in St. Albans, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Tuesday.

Kassun Brown, 31, is accused of speeding through a stop sign and hitting another vehicle, killing its driver, a police officer from the 63rd Precinct.

Brown was arraigned on an indictment charging him with manslaughter in the second degree, assault in the second degree, vehicular manslaughter in the second degree, operating a motor vehicle while under

the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, and failing to stop at a stop sign.

According to the charges, on Friday, Jan. 17, 2020, at approximately 11:58 p.m., Brown was allegedly driving a 2006 Nissan Maxima when he struck a vehicle at the intersection of Nashville Boulevard and Lucas Street in St. Albans. Video surveillance footage shows the car was proceeding southbound on Nashville Boulevard at a high rate of speed past a stop sign. Brown’s car strikes a Nissan sedan travelling westbound on Lucas Street pushing the victim’s car into a clockwise spin before it hits two parked cars. Brown’s car then veers southwest into a telephone pole.

Medical responders transported the

gravely injured driver, 34-year-old City Police Officer Michael Ellis of St. Albans, to a local hospital for treatment of traumatic brain injury, a broken neck and facial fractures. Ellis died weeks later, on Feb. 27. Brown was also transported to a local hospital after the collision for treatment of a dislocated right ankle. A man who was a passenger in Brown’s car was transported to a hospital for treatment of fractured femur.

“There is nothing more irresponsible

and selfi sh than getting behind the wheel and driving under the influence. Everyone with whom we share the road deserves our respect and consideration and has every right to reach their destination safely,” Katz said. “The defendant is alleged to have been driving while intoxicated and will be held to account for the tragic consequences of that decision, the senseless death of an NYPD officer.”

If convicted, Brown faces up to 15 years in prison.

Photo Courtesy of DOI DOI Commissioner Strauber called the three former officers’ conduct “an insult to the correction officers who do their jobs, who show up to work and risk their personal safety on a daily basis.”

Photo Courtesy of Google

The crash occurred at the intersection of Nashville Boulevard and Lucas Street in St. Albans.

File Photo

“There is nothing more irresponsible and selfish than getting behind the wheel and driving under the influence,” DA Katz said.

Notice of Formation of Al-Barakah Properties LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/17/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 8740 165th St, Apt 4N, Jamaica, NY 11432. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of 47TH STREET LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/1/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: 22-45 47th St., Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of Formation of GLENDALE

75 PROPERTY, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/29/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 60 21 75th Ave., Glendale, NY 11385. Purpose: any lawful activities.

NOTICE OF FORMATION of limited liability company (LLC). Name: MJ-AN, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/24/2023. Office location: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and address SSNY shall mail a copy of process is 143-07 Cherry Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

5M74 LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/07/2023. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Peter Demertzis, 24-13 26th Street, Apt 1, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

ACCURATE RELIABLE TIMELY BOOKKEEPING LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY)12/19/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to DEBITA SINGH, 1044 130TH AVE APT 4B, JAMAICA, NY, 11434, USA. General Purpose

Notice of Formation of LRH Realty of Amsterdam LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/04/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Paregt Singh, 11 Allen St., New Hyde Park, NY 11040. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Legal Notices

NORTHERN 409 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/31/23. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 144-49 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Russ & Effie LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 1/6/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 63-55 74th St., Middle Village, NY 11379. General Purpose

UVP COMMUNICATIONS

LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 11/22/2022 Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail to the LLC, 3418 NORTHERN BLVD. #B20, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY, 11101, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of PRIYA LLC

Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/12/13. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 17936 Hillside Ave., Jamaica, NY 11432. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

J&J Maspeth Owner LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 02/08/2023 Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail to the LLC, 57-48 49th Place, Queens, NY 11378. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

MVP SECURITY LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 02/16/2023 Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail to the MVP SECURITY LLC, 3119 32ND ST. APT 11, ASTORIA, NY, 11106, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

BRONTE NORTH LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 02/17/2023. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 58-41 63rd St., Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of NEXGENERENTAL INC LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/18/2023. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: ANDY YU, 68-65 136th Street, Unit B, Flushing, ny 11367, USA. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of 1827 RENAISSANCE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/05/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o CB-Emmanuel Realty, LLC, 22110 Jamaica Ave., LL1, Queens Village, NY 11428. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of ACTIVE LINK INSURANCE BROKERAGE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/23/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: THE LLC 6933 76TH STREET, MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY, 11379, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of LITTLE LANA DAYCARE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/21/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LITTLE LANA DAYCARE LLC, 10427 196TH STREET, 1ST FL, JAMAICA, NY, 11412, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of CANAR DC LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/20/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 111-47 41st Ave., Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Qualification of Emerald Trailers LLC. Authority filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/31/23. Office location: Queens County. LLC formed in New Jersey (NJ) on 06/09/22. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 2 Hudson Place, Ste. 100, Hoboken, NJ 07030, also the address to be maintained in NJ. Arts of Org. filed with the State Treasurer of Dept. of Treasury, Division of Revenue, 33 West State St. 5th Fl., Trenton, NJ 08608-1214. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of LHR REALTY OF TROY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/14/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Parget Singh, 11 Allen St., New Hyde Park, NY 11040. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of BINA READY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/24/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The Limited Liability Company, 108-12 69th Rd, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: any lawful activities.