THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | FEBRUARY 7, 2019

VOL. 19 • NUMBER 6 • FEBRUARY 7, 2019

CITY COUNSEL

Civic Head Invites Community Leaders from all Five Boroughs to Ozone Park to Discuss Possible Legal Solutions to Homeless Shelter ‘Crisis’

See Story on Page 3

Ozone Park Residents Block Association President Sam Esposito (inset) issued a “call to action” to leaders of community organizations across the city and an invitation to attend a summit on shelter sitings on Friday, Feb. 8, at the Deshi Senior Center on Rockaway Boulevard.

Photos Courtesy of Google and Michael V. Cusenza

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 6 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 | 1

NYPD Unveils Plan to Implement Reforms to Opaque Internal Disciplinary System

By Michael V. Cusenza The City Police Department is accepting the Independent Panel's complete list of recommendations to improve the NYPD internal disciplinary system, Police Commissioner Jim O’Neill announced on Friday.

O’Neill appointed the Independent Panel, consisting of former U.S. Attorney Mary Jo White, former U.S. Attorney Robert Capers, and former U.S. District Court Judge Barbara Jones, on June 21, 2018, to conduct an autonomous, extensive review of the embattled system and to propose recommendations to improve it.

The panel blasted the department for “a fundamental and pervasive lack of transparency into the disciplinary process and about disciplinary outcomes.”

The panel’s thorough 57-page analysis paints a picture of department disciplinary proceedings shrouded in secrecy.

“The end result is a system that is understandably perceived by the public and others as gesturing towards some transparency, but ultimately remaining largely closed to any external scrutiny,” White, Capers and Jones wrote.

On Friday, O’Neill announced that an NYPD Implementation Panel will now administer the operational, legal and budgetary plan to enact all recommendations. Some of the recommendations can be implemented in the shortterm, over the next 30-60 days. Another set of changes will require additional time to take effect. The NYPD will also ask an outside entity to perform an external audit of the overall implementation process, O’Neill added.

“A fair clear and consistent discipline system is essential to the police and public alike, and the twin virtues of

Photo Courtesy of Benjamin Kanter/Mayoral Photography Office

Commissioner O’Neill said, “A fair clear and consistent discipline system is essential to the police and public alike, and the twin virtues of transparency and accountability are essential to building mutual trust and respect between cops and the communities they serve.”

transparency and accountability are essential to building mutual trust and respect between cops and the communities they serve,” the police commissioner said on Friday after thanking the panel for donating “their valuable time, skills and efforts to perform a vital public service to New York City.”

The following recommendations will be put into place within the next 30-60 days: • The department should support amendments to 50-a to increase transparency and enhance accountability

• The NYPD must guard against unwarranted expansion of the scope of 50-a (section of Civil Rights Law that prohibits the release of information on internal police disciplinary action) • The NYPD should also enhance its public reporting in line with that of other agencies • The NYPD should publish trial room calendars • The Police Commissioner should enhance the documentation of variances from disciplinary recommendations The remaining recommendations will require more time to be fully implemented: • The department should appoint a Citizens’ Liaison • The NYPD should adopt protocols to insulate decision makers from external pressures and minimize the appearance of inappropriate influence over the disciplinary process • The department should study and consider adopting a disciplinary matrix • The department should take measures to expedite disciplinary adjudications • The department should strengthen enforcement of false statement disciplinary policie • The department should adopt presumptive penalties in domestic violence cases as recommended by the Commission to Combat Police Corruption • The department should upgrade and integrate its Case Management System “These thoughtful reform proposals represent meaningful progress in the never-ending mission to make our city safer and fairer,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “I commend the police commissioner for launching this review and for adopting its important findings.”

State Legislature Approves Ban on Oil and Natural Gas Drilling Off New York Coast

By Forum Staff The State Legislature has voted to approve a bill that would prohibit oil and natural gas drilling off of New York’s coast.

Both houses have passed the measure that would amend the Environmental Conservation Law § 23-1101 to prohibit the leasing of State-owned underwater coastal lands for oil and natural gas drilling and add a new section to prevent the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of General Services from authorizing leases that would result in the increase of oil or natural gas production from federal waters. In addition, the bill would amend the Transportation Corporations Law to restrict the powers of such corporations to develop pipelines associated with the delivery of natural gas or oil from the North Atlantic Planning Area.

The bill’s sponsor, Assemblyman Steven Englebright (D-Suffolk County), pointed out that “drilling off New York’s Atlantic Coast has been off limits for decades and as a result, some of the State’s laws regulating oil and natural gas drilling have not kept pace. This legislation would remedy that oversight and prohibit the use of the State’s underwater lands for drilling. Such a prohibition is in keeping with New York’s coastal management practices, and also protects

Photo Courtesy of Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato’s Office

Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato and Jamaica Bay Ecowatchers President Dan Mundy discuss the future of the beloved bay.

endangered and threatened species, such as the North Atlantic right whale, and the State’s recreational and commercial fishing industries. In addition, this legislation, based in part on legislation from California, would prohibit DEC and OGS from providing leases that would result in the increase

2 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 • Number 6 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

of oil or natural gas production from federal waters.”

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) noted on Tuesday that she was “proud to have voted Yes on this bill with my colleagues.”

“In order to protect our children, and all

future generations, it’s crucial that we take steps NOW to protect our planet- especially the vital resources here in Rockaway and across the entire state,” Pheffer Amato added. “Passing this legislation takes a huge step towards a more sustainable future. Working to preserve our coastlines and all associated natural resources is essential to the longterm preservation and protection of our environment, economy, and our quality of life.”

Jamaica Bay Ecowatchers President Dan Mundy echoed the assemblywoman’s sentiment.

“Oil drilling operations are inherently dangerous and even more so in areas like the North Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Rockaway. Any type of accidental release during drilling operations would have devastating effects on the waters and coastal areas of Rockaway and Jamaica Bay,” Mundy said. “After years of hard work the waters off of our coast are now cleaner then they have been in decades and whales, dolphins and seals can regularly be seen cruising through these waters, It is not a time to allow ocean drilling to threaten the gains we have made.”

Rockaway Beach Civic Association President John Cori hailed the legislation for helping to “prevent Big Gas and Oil companies from laying miles of additional dangerous pipe lines just miles from where we live, work, and play.”

Ozone Park Civic Calls for Citywide ‘Emergency Summit’ on Homeless Shelters

By Michael V. Cusenza The leader of a recently formed area civic association on Tuesday issued an “urgent” call to community leaders citywide to attend a “summit” on homeless shelter sitings across the five boroughs.

Ozone Park Residents Block Association President Sam Esposito has reached out to “every leader, president, chair, from every community, neighborhood, and town, from every borough across the city of NY, for a summit meeting on how to proceed, and stand together, work together, and come up with a solution to the crisis facing NYC, the homeless shelter placement, of 90 shelters, in our residential, family, communities.”

The meeting is set for this Friday, Feb. 8, starting at 6 p.m. at Deshi Senior Center (83-10 Rockaway Blvd., Ozone Park).

Esposito circulated the “call to action” just a week after announcing on the civic’s Facebook page that the City has abandoned its plan to house 113 single adult men with mental illness at a new

Photo Courtesy of Google

The summit is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 8, starting at 6 p.m. at Deshi Senior Center, located at 83-10 Rockaway Blvd., Ozone Park.

shelter on 101st Avenue and 86th Street in the heart of Ozone Park.

The building will still be used as a temporary housing facility, but the population has changed.

“It is a small win. But a win never-the-less,” Esposito wrote on the social media platform in a Jan. 29 post. “We fought against the mentally ill men being placed on

101 ave and we won that battle.

We realize that we still could be faced with some problems with 113 men, but it is a far cry from the challenges we were facing had they put 113 mentally ill men there.”

As for Friday’s event, Esposito pointed out that the meeting “is not about each shelter’s significant impact on their own community,

Addabbo Tapped for Senate Leader Post

“I’m very excited to serve on seven committees, all of which deal with issues that are critically important to my constituents,” Sen. Addabbo said.

By Forum Staff State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) has been appointed to serve as Majority Deputy Whip for the Democratic Conference during the 2019 legislative session, he announced on Thursday.

The senator has also been named to serve as chairman of the Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, and has been assigned to the Aging, Children & Families, Civil Service & Pensions, Education, Veterans Homeland Security & Military Affairs committees, and the Domestic Animal Welfare subcommittee.

“I am honored to be given this important leadership position in the Majority Conference,” Addabbo said. “I want to thank Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins for her confidence in me. My role as Majority Deputy Whip presents me an opportunity

but a summit that will discuss legal actions. Our attorney has found possible grounds and we need to discuss this going forward on how to proceed and see how many communities are willing to stand with us, in this fight, jointly.”

Esposito has asked that at least one representative “from every civic, organization, board, club,

etc. that represents their community, neighborhood and towns, to please come to the meeting. This is NOT an open meeting to the public. This is a summit being called as an urgent emergency meeting, to a crisis that is being pushed into our residential communities. This is not about opinions but FACTS.” He also noted that those who wish to attend must register at OZPKRBA@aol.com to receive proper credentials to gain entry to the summit.

Select public officials have been invited to speak at the confab and “guide us, counsel us and see if they can create change in Albany and NYC,” Esposito added. He issued a separate call to action to those pols.

“This meeting should be a testament to the dedication we have to work towards a solution and the love and concern we have for the communities we all represent,” Esposito wrote. “We hope you will join us and speak to the NYC neighborhood activists who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of their communities.”

Miller Thanks ‘Valentines for Vets’ Donors

File Photo

to be even more involved in the introduction and passage of legislation that will improve the lives of all New Yorkers.”

Addabbo noted that, as chairman of the Racing, Gaming and Wagering Committee, he’s “looking forward towards raising revenue and educational funding through the potential of creating sports betting in” New York.

“I’m very excited to serve on seven committees, all of which deal with issues that are critically important to my constituents,” Addabbo said. “These assignments will ensure I continue to be directly involved with decision making when considering legislation. Advocating for senior citizens, working families, children, and our state’s veterans has always been of utmost importance to me. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues on all of these vital committees.”

Assemblyman Mike Miller (DWoodhaven) this week thanked Blessed Mother Solidarity, The Crochet Club, St. Mary Gate of Heaven Senior Center, and St. Mary Gate of Heaven Catholic Academy for crocheting blankets, hats and scarves, as well as collecting candy, toiletries and clothing for his 10th annual Valentines for Veterans drive.

“Every year I am amazed on

how these groups take time out of their busy schedules to help the veterans at St. Alban’s [New York State] Veterans Home; Teresa Wasenius crocheted 61 blankets alone!” Miller said on Monday.

Miller and members of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 32 will be bringing donations to the St. Albans VA facility this Friday, Feb. 8.

Photo Courtesy of Assemblyman Miller’s Office

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 6 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 | 3

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Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) recently announced the opening of nominations for her 2nd annual Women of Distinction Awards to celebrate women throughout the 23rd Assembly District who have shown great strength in their actions to foster a brighter future for all. Awards will be given for work in various fields, including health care, business, volunteer work, humanitarian work, education and military service, Pheffer Amato noted.

“Our first annual ceremony was a huge success, so this year we are looking to expand on that success! We can never show complete thanks to these Women of Dis-

tinction, but to honor them with a special award is one step we can take to show our gratitude,” said Pheffer Amato, (c., posing with 2018 Women of Distinction).

Nomination forms can be found on Pheffer Amato’s website: assembly.state. ny.us/mem/Stacey-Pheffer-Amato or by contacting Pheffer Amato’s office at (718) 945-9550. The deadline to submit nomination forms is March 1. The forms can be returned via email amatos@nyassembly. gov or fax (718) 945-9549.

Winners will be honored at an awards ceremony in March, date/time/location to be determined.

Photo Courtesy of Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato’s Office

Faith Talk Pastor Stephen Roser Howard Beach Assembly of God When, in 1966, my Aunt Eva told me that the oak Hammond organ in the living room of her new home did not work, I immediately pushed the nearby wall switch from “off ” to “on” and touched the keys.

Music came out.

Just as that beautiful instrument was useless until connected with the flow of electricity, religious people who have no relationship with the Lord himself will bear little spiritual fruit.

Jesus plainly said, “Apart from me, you can do nothing,” but human pride has trouble believing that. The single most common misconception about religion in America is the assumption that it is sufficient for you to conform to all the expected, outward behavior of christianity apart from an inner love relationship with Jesus Christ.

A lot of us are like Samson and his seven braids of long hair, which were required by his religious vow. He actually believed that the hair was the secret of his enormous strength. The truth was, the hair was merely an outward sign of an inward, fiery love for God. But that fire had slowly been going out because of his many dalliances with the opposite sex. When the Philistines finally cut off the last braid of his hair, it was like they cut off the last strand of his devotion. The Lord departed from Samson, and so did his strength.

If your outward behavior is pretty good while at the same time you have little inner joy or strength, then you either need to get connected or reconnected with Jesus. The Bible promises, “To as many as received Him, to them He gave the power to become the children of God.” ( John 1:12).

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De Blasio and Carranza also visited classrooms at PS 128 in Manhattan on Monday.

By Forum Staff Nearly four-dozen new pre-K Dual Language programs—including the City’s first in French, Haitian-Creole, Hebrew, and Japanese—will open across NYC this fall, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Monday.

According to the City Department of Education, at the start of the 2019-20 school year, there will be 107 programs throughout all five boroughs, more than triple the original 30 in 2015.

The 47 new programs announced on Monday include 16 in Queens (bringing the total to 26), six in the Bronx, 16 in Brooklyn, eight in Manhattan, and one on Staten Island. In addition to the new French, Haitian-Creole, Hebrew, and Japanese programs, the DOE will continue to offer programs in Bengali, Chinese, Italian, Russian and Spanish. In the 2019-20 school year, these programs will be in 103 schools, Pre-K Centers, and New York City Early Education Centers in every borough, with four sites offering Dual Language in more than one language.

According to the administration, Dual Language classes are comprised of 50 percent children whose home language is the target language of the program and 50 percent English-proficient students. Instruction is held in both languages, and students in pre-K Dual Language classes may continue on the Dual Language track in Kindergarten and beyond.

In addition to the City’s pre-K Dual Language programs, there are currently 545 bilingual programs across every borough for students in grades K-12. Approxi-

mately 200 bilingual programs have opened or expanded since the 2013-14 school year.

Bilingual programs are available in schools citywide in 13 languages, serving approximately 40,000 students.

“New York City’s youngest learners gain so much in 3-K and Pre-K classrooms across the City, and I encourage all eligible families to apply,” said Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza. “I’m also excited to announce that we’re opening 47 new Dual Language programs, where our students are learning to speak two languages – one of the greatest gifts there is. More New York City kids will get an early start on becoming multilingual, multicultural, and ready to succeed in our diverse world.”

Applications for free, full-day 3-K for All and Pre-K for All seats opened on Monday. Families can find early childhood programs and apply online at MySchools.nyc.

Families can also apply over the phone at (718) 935-2009, or in person at a Family Welcome Center. All New York City families with children born in 2015 can apply for free, full-day pre-K in the 2019-20 school year.

The 3-K application also opened on Monday and will remain open until May 3. Programs in districts 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 16, 19, 23, 27, and 31 will be available for families when the application launches. Programs in the newly announced districts, 8 and 32, will be added to the application beginning in March. All New York City families with children born in 2016 can apply for the 2019-20 school year; families residing in district will receive priority. Families can find out their school district by calling 311 or visiting schools.nyc.gov/find-a-school.

www.orderaplumber.com • (718) 522-0818 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 6 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 | 5

EDITORIAL State of Disunion Some would argue that it occurred long before the night of Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2018.

Some might even say that they can’t point to a specific milestone or event that signaled the demise of optimism and sane, diplomatic national political discourse.

But we can.

On Tuesday, Queens native and President of the United States, Donald Trump, delivered his second State of the Union address to the nation—and ignited a powder keg of partisanship that this country has not endured.

Until now.

As expected, Trump was all over the place. He initially tried to strike a bipartisan, patriotic, even kumbaya tone—before taking a sharp left into the negative and bizarre.

“If there is going to be peace and legislation, there cannot be war and investigation.

It just doesn’t work that way,” Trump said.

Uh…what?

Predictably, Democrats pounced—on that checks-and-balances gem and more.

“Sorry, sir. But Article 1 of the Constitution is the legislative branch. And it has the responsibility to exercise oversight of the other branches of government. We would be delinquent in our duties if we failed to provide the necessary oversight,” House

Speaker Nancy Pelosi gleefully tweeted.

“President Trump has had years to bring this country together, but instead he has chosen to divide the country across every single line he can imagine,” said 2020 presidential candidate and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) “If President Trump wants to convince the country that he actually cares about bringing us together, then he can start by no longer using government workers as political pawns, reuniting the

families that his administration ripped apart at the border, and stopping with political wedge issues like telling women they can’t make their own health decisions in consultation with their doctor.”

Fellow member of Congress, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing), added, “President Trump addressed the American people this evening and spoke of a new era of bipartisanship coupled with lofty policy goals. I believe Democrats and Republicans can

and should work together on issues like rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure and lowering the cost of prescription drugs.

But the President will need to match words with deeds, and we will see if his desire for bipartisanship will align with his actions after tonight. I stand ready to work with the President. But I will not stand for attacks on hardworking middle class families, immigrant communities, and young people, and I will continue to fight against any proposals or policies that seek to harm them. In addition, the President’s selection of ‘Choosing Greatness’ as the theme of his speech was curious because America was great before his administration and will be great after his administration.”

On Wednesday morning, U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) tweeted, “Last night, Trump suggested that congressional oversight of his administration will hurt our economy. That’s false. But corruption will. Rooting out malfeasance is vital to our democracy and prosperity. Know what else hurts the economy? Ridiculous government shutdowns.”

Who knows — maybe some day in the near future we’ll look back on this fraught national moment and laugh…if only to stave off the tears.

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Jamaica Man Indicted for Kidnapping 11-Year-Old Girl

By Forum Staff A Jamaica man has been indicted on kidnapping charges for allegedly forcing an 11-year-old girl into his vehicle in December, Queens District Attorney Richard Brown announced on Monday. The girl was saved thanks to the heroics of a man who heard her screams and stepped in to save her.

Relyn Estrada, 40, was arraigned on Friday on a two-count indictment charging him with second-degree kidnapping and endangering the welfare of a child. According to court records, Estrada, a registered sex offender, was remanded without bail and ordered to return to court on March 11.

According to the charges, said DA Brown, at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 15, 2018, the victim, an 11-year-old girl, was walking on Center Street near Seneca Avenue in Ridgewood when she observed Estrada drive up to her in a white vehicle and motioned for her to come to him. When the victim ignored the defendant, she observed the man drive ahead of her, stop and exit his vehicle. The defendant then allegedly ordered her to come to him. The pre-teen girl replied, “No thank you,” and ran in the opposite direction. Estrada then allegedly chased the girl, grabbed her arm and backpack, yanked her backward and then forced her into the front seat of his vehicle. While inside the car, the girl began kicking her legs trying to escape while

was in his home, heard the screams coming from the young victim. Salas looked out a window and allegedly saw the girl struggling in the man’s vehicle. He then ran outside, bat in hand, and asked the youngster if she knew the man. The girl responded no and again yelled for help.

“He had literally picked her up sideways,” Salas told the New York Daily News. “I told her, ‘Don’t worry, don’t move.’

He was more concerned about me. (I said to myself) ‘I’m going to do everything in my power not to let him go.’”

Salas’ landlord joined him in confronting Estrada.

“We were ready to take him and do what we had to do to prevent the little girl from getting kidnapped,” Edwin Gonzalez told the News.

Salas and Gonzalez held Estrada for the police, who eventually took him to the 104th Precinct stationhouse not far from the scene.

“The defendant is accused of physically forcing this girl into his vehicle—despite the youngster fighting her hardest to get away from the stranger who approached her on the street. If not for brave good Samaritans who stepped in to help, the fate Photo Courtesy of NYPD of the girl could have been horribly different. The defendant Relyn Estrada will be vigorously prosecuted and held accountable for his alscreaming for help. leged actions,” Brown pledged on Monday.

According to charging documents, Alexander Salas, who If convicted, Estrada faces up to 25 years in prison.

Brooklyn Man Convicted in Shooting Death of Acquaintance in Jamaica

East Elmhurst Man Pleads Guilty to Groping Young Girls

By Forum Staff

Morris shot Harris on Union Hall Street between 107th and 108th avenues.

By Forum Staff A Brooklyn man has been convicted at trial of murder in the shooting death of an acquaintance, Queens District Attorney Richard Brown announced on Friday. The victim was shot twice in the head as he and the defendant walked along Union Hall Street together in Jamaica in May of 2016, Brown added.

Teimel Morris, 25, was found guilty on all counts following a two-week-long trial.

He was convicted of second-degree murder and two counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Morris is scheduled to be sentenced on March 5, at which time he faces up to 25 years to life in prison, the DA noted.

According to trial testimony, on May 6, 2016, Morris and the victim, Edward Harris, 28, were seen on video surveillance having a heated conversation outside a deli on 160th Street. The two men then proceeded to walk down 107th Avenue together and another surveillance camera spotted the pair walking on Union Hall Street and then out of view when shots rang out. Witnesses heard the gunfire and saw someone running from the area in a

Photo Courtesy of Google

black sweatshirt with white sleeves with a gun in his hand. The defendant wore a black sweatshirt with white sleeves that evening.

According to trial testimony, Harris had been shot twice in the head. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital where he died five days later.

“This was a tragic, senseless act of gun violence that claimed the life of a young man.

And now another young man, the defendant, faces the possibility of spending the rest of his days locked behind bars,” Brown added.

“The defendant showed a total disregard for human life when he shot and killed the victim. Guns have no place in a civilized society and if you use one, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

The Harris shooting was investigated by the 103rd Precinct Detective Squad. According to the latest available City Police Department statistics, the 103 is experiencing a precipitous drop in overall crime—a 32.5 percent tumble compared to the same period last year. Nearly all of the major index crime categories are in decline. Reported rapes stayed even at two; however car thefts have increased sharply—to 10 from 5 during the same period in 2018.

An East Elmhurst man has pleaded guilty to sex abuse charges for forcibly grabbing the genitals of two young girls on separate occasions in October 2018, District Attorney Richard Brown announced on Monday.

Noe Angel Soriano Cruz, 39, on Friday copped to one count of first-degree attempted sexual abuse and one count of second-degree sexual abuse before Queens Criminal Court Judge Suzanne Melendez who indicated that she will sentence Cruz to two years in prison on March 1.

According to the criminal charges, on Wednesday, Oct. 3, surveillance video captured Soriano Cruz as he approached his first victim, a 10-year-old girl, inside of a bodega on 104th Street in Corona. Soriano Cruz grabbed the girl between her legs then bolted out of the store.

And on Tuesday, Oct. 9, Soriano Cruz followed a 13-year-old girl as she walked on Junction Boulevard in Corona and groped the teen’s vagina from behind before fleeing the scene.

“In pleading guilty, the defendant admitted to pursuing and sexually abusing both young victims. The girls will likely remember this violation by a stranger for the rest of their lives,” Brown said. “The defendant’s predatory behavior for his own demented sexual gratification is unacPhoto Courtesy of NYPD Noe Angel Soriano Cruz pictured on security footage. ceptable in a civilized society.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 6 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 | 7

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Pols Renew Push to Enact Home Stability Support Program

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Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi (D-Forest Hills), chairman of the Social Services Committee, unveiled HSS in September 2016.

By Michael V. Cusenza A bipartisan group of State legislators has renewed the call to include in the 20192020 Budget the authorization of a program that aims to curb the dependence on shelters and temporary housing remedies that have plagued the homelessness crisis for decades, according to a recent published report.

More than a dozen elected officials have revived the push to enact the Home Stability Support program in the Empire State’s final fiscal plan, Ken Lovett wrote in Sunday’s New York Daily News.

Home Stability Support is a statewide rent supplement for families and individuals who are eligible for public assistance benefits and who are facing eviction, homelessness, or loss of housing due to domestic violence or hazardous living conditions.

According to the plan, HSS will be 100 percent federally and State-funded, and will replace all existing optional rent supplements.

Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi (D-Forest Hills), chairman of the Social Services Committee, unveiled HSS in September 2016.

“Having a stable home serves as a platform for people to become better parents, employees and members of the community.

Tens of thousands of New Yorkers and their children currently don’t have that foundation,” Hevesi said in November 2016. “The Home Stability Support is an effective, fiscally-responsible solution. By providing adequate rental assistance to families now, we can keep tens of thousands of people in their homes and save taxpayers millions of dollars.”

According to Hevesi, as a result of inaction by the State, the shelter allowance has failed to keep up with the rising cost of housing. For a household of three, the shelter allowance ranges from $264 to $447 per month, whereas actual average rental costs for two-bedroom apartments – suitable for a three-member family – ranges from $658 to $1,608 per month in New York.

HSS would cost $11,224 per year for a household of three in the city, Hevesi noted. Meanwhile, the cost of shelters in NYC is $38,460 for a family with children.

The net savings for taxpayers is $27,236 per year. Similar savings would be realized in counties throughout the state, according to HSS proponents, including savings on related services such as emergency room visits, law enforcement costs, housing court costs, and programs and shelters for runaway youth. An analysis by the NYC Bar Association found that preventing the evictions of roughly 5,000 households could save $251 million a year in New York City alone.

Supporters of HSS—on the city and state levels—have been touting HSS for years.

“It is about time that we focus on real solutions to our homeless crisis and in order to do that, we need the State to step up and do its part by taking advantage of the opportunity of the Home Stability Support plan,” City Councilman Donovan Richards (D-Laurelton) said at a November 2016 HSS rally on the steps of City Hall. “We need to tap into federal resources that are available to help keep people in their homes and fund necessary homeless resources and all of this can be done while saving millions of dollars in State and City funding.”

10 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 • Number 6 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Earlier this week we were “treated” to a preview of that which can be viewed as a potentially unforgiving winter–those days where bundling up just doesn’t cut it and no matter what you put on, you can’t get warm.

Some folks can warm up with winter weather gear, but for others, getting warm involves much more than thermal garments and wind defying outerwear.

For patients with hypothyroidism (sluggish thyroid), the cold can present a challenge with serious consequences.

Although the thyroid typically weighs just around an ounce, it carries a lot of weight ¬– basically, it rules the body’s metabolism.

The symptoms of hypothyroidism –low levels of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 – can include joint and muscle pain, difficulty concentrating and sleeping, tiredness, fatigue, depression and the highlight of this column, sensitivity to the cold.

To understand the effects of this condition, set up a mental analogy. Think of your thyroid as the body’s thermostat. To keep the house warm you have to raise the thermostat. Likewise, you can turn up your “thermostat.”

First of all, you need rest. Period.

Shorter days and longer nights increase that need in Winter.

Additionally, keeping your surroundings warm is key. Pump up that thermostat in your home.

And while you can’t hibernate for the winter, you must layer up when going out. Accessorize your layers with scarves, wraps, gloves and hats.

Take that luxurious hot bath-a decadent moisturizing bath oil will help with the dry skin that can accompany this condition.

Bring on the portable heat! Use electric blankets, heating pads and small heaters.

Get creative and fill a two liter bottle with hot water to rest your feet on or fill an old sock with rice or buckwheat kernels, tie a tight knot at the top and throw it in the microwave for a couple of minutes. And most reliable of all, curl up with your dog who will be more than willing to pass along some body heat in exchange for your undivided attention.

Energy equals heat so thermogenic foods– fruits, veggies, meat, dairy and spices are just a few that can increase thyroid activity.

Remember if you have thyroid issues that you are naturally more susceptible to the “winter blues”. Pump up your Omega-3’s to help with this.

And don’t forget to supplement your Vitamin D intake with a wide range of OTC preparations available. Losing D in winter happens to all of us but the deficiency can lead to autoimmune disease.

Stop by the pharmacy and we’d be happy to help you with supplements and any advice on how to combat the cold.

Until next week...

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Cops Search for South Ozone Park Car Thief Police this week reached out to the public via Twitter for help with identifying a wanted in connection with the recent theft of a car in South Ozone Park.

According to investigators, on Tuesday, Jan. 1, around 5:30 a.m., the suspect in the accompanying photo hopped into a vehicle parked in the vicinity of Lefferts Boulevard and 111th Avenue—without realizing that the owner was sleeping inside it. After a brief scuffle, the victim was able to exit the car.

Anyone with information is asked to call (718) 845-2261; reference case #2019-1.

Car thefts are down nearly 73 percent compared to this period last year in the 106th Precinct, according to the latest available NYPD statistics.

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

De Blasio, Carranza Tout Record-High HS Graduation Rate

By Michael V. Cusenza The city’s 2018 four-year high school graduation rate has reached a record high of 75.9 percent and rose in every borough and among every ethnicity, while the dropout rate has fallen to a record low of 7.5 percent, Mayor Bill de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza recently announced.

In Queens, the graduation rate increased to 79.5 percent in 2018 from 77.8 percent the previous year. The World’s Borough graduation rate is second only to Staten Island, which boasted an 80.8 in 2018. The largest improvement in graduation and dropout rates was in Brooklyn, according to data provided by the City Department of Education.

Additionally, graduation rates improved across all ethnicities, with a decrease in the gap between black and white students and Hispanic and white students: • The graduation rate was 88.1 percent for Asian students in 2018, a 0.6-point increase from 2017.

• The graduation rate was 72.1 percent for black students in 2018,

The mayor congratulates students at New World HS in the Bronx.

a 2.1-point increase from 2017.

• The graduation rate was 70.0 percent for Hispanic students in 2018, a 1.6-point increase from 2017.

• The graduation rate was 84.2 percent for white students in 2018, a 1-point increase from 2017.

And dropout rates fell across all ethnicities, according to the administration: • The dropout rate was 3.7 percent for Asian students in 2018, a 0.3-point decrease from 2017.

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

• The dropout rate was 7.6 percent for Black students in 2018, a 0.3-point decrease from 2017.

• The dropout rate was 10.5 percent for Hispanic students in 2018, a 0.2-point decrease from 2017.

• The dropout rate was 4.0 percent for White students in 2018, a 0.4-point decrease from 2017.

The four-year graduation rate is over 75 percent for the first time ever, the mayor noted. The dropout rate decreased across Brooklyn,

Manhattan, Queens and Staten Island. The graduation rate across the 25 Renewal and Rise high schools has increased by 20 percentage points to 72.4 percent in 2018 from 52.5 percent in 2014. And the dropout rate across Renewal and Rise schools has decreased by 3.9 percentage points to 14.3 percent in 2018 from 18.2 percent in 2014.

De Blasio unveiled the $150 million Renewal Schools program in November 2014, dedicating new leadership and resources to

more than 100 long-struggling schools by setting clear goals, providing targeted resources, and holding each school accountable for sustainable improvement.

Beginning with the 2018-2019 school year, Renewal schools that met at least 67 percent of their benchmarks and have demonstrated a sustainable school improvement structure that will allow them to build on their progress, will transition out of the Renewal Schools program and into the newly created Rise Schools program. According to DOE, Rise schools have demonstrated that they have the will and conditions in place to accelerate student group and meet school improvement benchmarks and have the capacity to lead/implement a school improvement strategy.

“Having served many challenging years as [chairwoman] of the NYS Assembly Education Committee as well as being a parent of a recent NYC high school graduate I feel a great sense of pride and hope in our young adults who have accomplished so much. Congratulations to all!” said Assemblywoman Cathy Nolan (D-Long Island City).

AG Hails ‘Precedent-Setting’ Settlement with Sellers of Fake Followers, ‘Likes’ on Social Media

By Forum Staff State Attorney General Tish James recently announced what she characterized as a “precedent-setting” settlement over the sale of fake followers, “likes,” and views on social media platforms, including Twitter and YouTube, using fake activity from false accounts.

According to James, Devumi LLC and related companies owned by German Calas, Jr. – including DisruptX Inc.; Social Bull Inc.; and Bytion Inc. (collectively, “Devumi”) – sold fake followers, “likes,” views and other forms of online endorsement and activity to users of social media platforms including Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, SoundCloud, and Pinterest. Devumi supplied the fraudulent activity using computer-operated accounts (“bot accounts”) and by one person pretending to be many other people (“sock-puppet accounts”).

These accounts falsely pretended to express the genuine positive opinions of real people.

In some instances, Devumi supplied fake accounts that copied real people’s social media profiles without consent, including their name and picture, James noted.

Additionally, Devumi sold endorsements from social media influencers without disclosing that the influencers had been paid for their recommendations. James said this is especially troubling when considering that the

Photo Courtesy of the Office of the State Attorney General

“With this settlement, we are sending a clear message that anyone profiting off of deception and impersonation is breaking the law and will be held accountable,” AG James said.

opinions of influencers can have particularly strong influence over the reputation and sales for any product, company, service or person they endorse.

James also pointed out that these business practices deceived and attempted to affect the decision-making of social media audiences, including: other platform users’ decisions about what content merits their own attention; consumers’ decisions about what to buy; advertisers’ decisions about whom to sponsor; and the decisions by policymakers,

voters, and journalists about which people and policies have public support.

The NY AG said that Devumi’s practices deceived some of the company’s own customers who mistakenly believed they were paying for authentic endorsements, while many other Devumi customers knew they were buying fake activity and endorsements. Devumi also deceived the social media platforms, which have policies prohibiting fake activity.

The settlement prohibits Devumi LLC and related companies (“Devumi”) from en-

gaging in any of the same misconduct going forward. This settlement marks the first finding by a law enforcement agency that selling fake social media engagement and using stolen identities to engage in online activity is illegal, James noted.

“Bots and other fake accounts have been running rampant on social media platforms, often stealing real people’s identities to carry out fraud,” James added. “As people and companies like Devumi continue to make a quick buck by lying to honest Americans, my office will continue to find and stop anyone who sells online deception. With this settlement, we are sending a clear message that anyone profiting off of deception and impersonation is breaking the law and will be held accountable.”

Devumi ceased operations in mid-2018, shortly after the commencement of the attorney general’s investigation and related publicity caused a major decline in its sales. On Jan. 27, 2018, The New York Times published an incredibly thorough expose on Devumi and “social media’s black market.”

“Drawing on an estimated stock of at least 3.5 million automated accounts, each sold many times over, [Devumi] has provided customers with more than 200 million Twitter followers, a New York Times investigation found.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 6 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 | 11

State Awards $204M to Health Care Projects across New York

By Michael V. Cusenza The State has awarded $204 million to 95 projects across New York to support essential health care services in the Empire State, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced on Tuesday.

The funding comes from the Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program and, according to Cuomo, will improve patient care through the development of high-quality medical facilities and programs serving the inpatient, primary care, mental health, substance use disorder and long-term care needs of communities throughout NY. The $204 million was spread out over 95 projects located in 10 regions of the state. New York City by far received the most money ($77.7 million) for 37 projects.

Queens facilities, including St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in Bayside and Trump Pavilion at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, are spearheading eight of those projects.

The Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program was enacted as part of the Fiscal Year 2018 Budget. In addition, according to the administration, Cuomo’s 2019-2020 Executive Budget will authorize the State Department of Health to allocate up to $300 million of the $525 million in Health Care Facility Transformation Funds authorized in the 2018-2019 Enacted Budget to support project applica-

File Photo

Several Queens facilities, including St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in Bayside, are spearheading eight of the projects being funded through the Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program.

tions from health care providers that were not awarded grants during this round of funding.

“While the federal administration has spent two years working to roll back healthcare access, we are investing more than ever in programs and facilities to ensure New Yorkers get the high-quality services they

need,” Cuomo said. “These investments in cutting-edge infrastructure will expand 21st century health care options in every corner of the state and improve the health and wellbeing of families for decades to come.”

The program is administered by DOH and the State Dormitory Authority and will

help support the objectives of the Delivery System Reform Incentive Program. The purpose of the Delivery System Reform Incentive Program is to reduce health care costs and improve the health outcomes of New Yorkers by expanding access to inpatient, primary, preventative and other ambulatory care services as part of regionally integrated healthcare delivery systems, according to the State. The Delivery System Reform Incentive Program’s primary goal is to reduce avoidable hospital visits by 25 percent by 2020, Cuomo noted. The Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program awards are also focused on projects which will help ensure the financial sustainability of safety-net healthcare providers, and the preservation or expansion of essential health care services.

“Access to affordable, high-quality health care is a basic human right,” said Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul. “This critical investment will improve access and deliver expanded medical services for every level of care. Our commitment to the health care needs of all New Yorkers is strengthened by this significant funding.”

State Health Commissioner Howard Zucker, M.D., added that “New York is a national leader in delivering first-class health care,” and praised Cuomo’s “steadfast commitment to making sure our health care systems have the resources necessary to provide the best possible care.”

LIRR Launches Test of Real-Time Train Finder Tool

By Forum Staff The Long Island Rail Road has launched a beta test of an online tool that allows customers to see the real-time position of trains on a map and information about train lengths and locations of any trouble spots affecting train service, Metropolitan Transportation Authority LIRR President Phillip Eng announced on Tuesday.

The map is refreshed with new data every three to five seconds and benefits from the enhanced accuracy of GPS data.

To use the tool, riders can go to any web browser and navigate to mylirr.org. The first thing displayed is a list of LIRR stations with a customer’s selected favorite stations displayed at the top. Tapping on a station gives a list of upcoming trains, organized by scheduled arrival time for the eastbound and westbound directions. Tapping on any listed train pulls up a map that shows that train’s location within the LIRR system-wide map, which is overlaid on a geographically accurate map showing streets, parks, bodies of water, and more, all in a muted fashion that allows train service to be highlighted. As the train moves, the icon representing the train on the map moves as well.

To help customers be prepared if a train has fewer cars than normal, the tool also lists how long each train is. Zooming in on the train displays this information graphically, by

Photo Courtesy of MTA LIRR/Patrick Cashin

“This tool is designed to be the gold standard level of information and should remove any doubt about where upcoming trains are and how many cars they have, and to provide a visual sense of how fast the trains are traveling ,” said LIRR President Phillip Eng.

showing an outline of the train, with each of the cars in the train appearing on the map.

Instances where ongoing track work is reducing the number of available tracks are shown on the map with a wrench icon, and unplanned events that can delay trains, such a switch or signal problem, broken rail, track

12 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 • Number 6 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

condition or disabled train are shown with an exclamation point icon.

To enable the tool to function, the LIRR has installed GPS transponders on all trains— nearly 600 GPS units in total. The GPS data supplements information from the LIRR’s signal system to provide the tool with accurate

real-time positions of trains. Areas in tunnels where GPS is unavailable use signal system data and station stops and intermediate waypoint beacons to identify train locations.

The tool supplements existing real-time offerings, including email and text messages service alerts available at MyMTAAlerts.com, MYmta, and the LIRR Train Time app, Eng noted.

“We’ve heard many times from customers that they want better information about when their train will arrive,” Eng added. “This tool is designed to be the gold standard level of information and should remove any doubt about where upcoming trains are and how many cars they have, and to provide a visual sense of how fast the trains are traveling. The myLIRR tool is an important component of our efforts to improve customer communications as part of the LIRR Forward plan.”

The myLIRR tool is in beta, and the LIRR plans to amend and improve it based on customer feedback. Anyone who has suggestions for improvement should email: feedback@ mylirr.org.

“We commend the LIRR for this move to provide riders with a more accurate and real time assessment of the location of their trains and encourage riders to provide feedback to the LIRR as it rolls out this new on line feature,” added LIRR Commuter Council Chair Mark Epstein.

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1-800-404-9776 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 6 FEBRUARY 7, 2019 | 13

Legal Notices Notice is hereby given that a license, number(PENDING) for on-premises Liquor has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor at retail in a Restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 32-10 37 th Avenue, Long Island City, NY11101 for on premises consumption. POB 354 INC. Notice of Formation of VAZPREY ENTERPRISES LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/24/18. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543, regd. agent upon whom and at which process may be served. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of KRISTEN RIANI MOVEMENT LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/03/2018. Office located in Queens County. SSNY has being designated as agent for service of process.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to, KRISTEN RIANI, 88-10 Whitney Ave. Apt 6-A, Elmhurst, NY 11373. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of Limited Liability Company (“LLC”). Name: BGD III Manager, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of the State of New York (“SSNY”) on December 19, 2018. N.Y. office location: Queens County. The SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to BGD III Manager, LLC, c/o The Bluestone Organization, 90-11 160th Street, Suite 100, Jamaica, New York 11432. Purpose/ character of LLC is to engage in any lawful act or activity.

Notice of formation of MAXINE SERVICES, LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/17/2018. Office located in Queens County. SSNY has being designated as agent for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to, THE LLC 50-57 47TH STREET, WOODSIDE, NY 11377.

Purpose: any lawful purpose.

QL REALTY LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 01/23/19. Off. Loc.: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: QL REALTY LLC, 47-26 JUNCTIOIN BLVD, CORONA, NY 11368. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County, on the 7th day of Janurary, 2018, bearing Index No. 001206/18, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York, 11435, grants me the right to assume the name of (first) Dominic (last) Vergara. My present name is Dominic Robert Lewin My present address is Ozone Park, NY 11417. The month and year of my birth are March 17, 2016. The place of my birth is New York Methodist Hospital.

CLIFTON #1 NOTE LLC Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 10/04/19. Off. Loc.: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ELLEN CHARLESBOIS, 20-43 143 STREET, FLUSHING, NY 11354, NY 11368. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

DON'T SWEAT IT!

Notice of Qualification of SAS PROPERTIES, LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/04/19. Office location: Queens County. LLC formed in New Jersey (NJ) on 12/28/18. Princ. office and NJ addr. of LLC is: 240 Middlesex Tnpk. #422, Iselin, NJ 08830. NYS fictitious name: SAS NY PROPERTIES, LLC. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the princ. office of the LLC. Cert. of Form. filed with State Treasurer, State of NJ, Dept. of Treasury, 33 W. State St., 5th Fl., Trenton, NJ 08608-1214.Purpose: Any lawful activity.

HPR UNITE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/14/2018. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: HPR UNITE LLC 40-28 COLLEGE POINT BLVD, PH110, FLUSHING, NY 11354. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

LEXINS38 LLC. Arts of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/04/19. 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, c/o Serena Lee, 23-69 38th Street, Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Black Star Marketing Group LLC. Art of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/15/2018.

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, 98-23 HH expwy Unit #4E Corona, NY 11368 Purpose: Any lawful purpose

Guoco Property LLC Arts. Of Org. filed with Secy. Of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on 01/15/2019. Office location: New York County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 246-21 52nd Ave., Little Neck, NY 11362. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

MICHELG TAX SERVICES LLC Art. OF Org. Filed Sec. of State of NY 9/10/2018. Off. Loc. : Queens Co. United States Corporation Agents, Inc. designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY to mail copy of process to The LLC, 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

GRANGER 5750 LLC. Arts of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/03/17. 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, 133-38 Sanford Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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