THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | AUGUST 31, 2017

VOL. 16 • NUMBER 35 • AUGUST 31, 2017

Howard Beach • Ozone Park • South Ozone Park • Woodhaven • Richmond Hill • Broad Channel Forest Hills • Middle Village • Glendale • Maspeth

South & West

UNSANDITARY CONDITIONS

Residents Continue to Call out Religious Groups that Leave Remnants of Rituals on the Beaches of Charles Park and in the Waters of Jamaica Bay Neighbors of the Howard Beach green space say they constantly see fruits, flowers, and food items in the water, and statues, pictures, flags, and other discarded props strewn across the sand.

See Story on Page 3 Photo Courtesy of Queens Crap

Page 4

Ferry Nice Ride: Customers Give Thumbs up in New Survey

Page 9

Columbus Statue Debate Continues

Page 11

Mayor Signs Legislation to Help Curb Cigarette, Tobacco Usage

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 16 • Number 35 AUGUST 31, 2017 | 1

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Ulrich Organizes Vermin Hunt Following Complaints about Rat Problem in Centreville

By Forum Staff City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) on Monday honored the Ryder's Alley Trencher-fed Society (RATS), an organization of owners and puppies who venture out into the streets of New York City with the sole purpose of hunting and killing vermin, for helping him earlier this month respond to a series of constituent complaints about a rat problem in the Centreville section of Ozone Park.

Ulrich presented founder Richard Reynolds and the entire RATS team with Council citations for their service to the Centreville community. The councilman also made sure to honor the real MVPs: Tanner, Merlin, Rommel, Marcus, Paco, JayJay, Lacey, Mighty, Gracie, Moz, Jiggy and Daisy. He presented each of the fearless pups with a “Vigilante Award,” complete with dog bones and beef jerky treats.

To supplement the City’s extermination efforts in the area, on Friday, Aug. 4, Ulrich invited the RATS team to hunt in Centrev-

Photo Courtesy of Councilman Ulrich’s Office

Ulrich honored The Ryder’s Alley Trencher-fed Society for their help in addressing the rat problem in a section of Ozone Park.

ille, where residents said a construction project forced rodents out of hiding.

“When traditional methods just aren’t enough, our office looks for new and innovative ways to help solve problems,” Ulrich noted. “When my office got wind of the pesky rat problem in Centreville, we needed to take a different approach, and inviting

the RATS team seemed like a fun idea.”

The RATS team honorees included Reynolds, Susan Friedenberg, Judith Todd, William L. Reyna, Jr., Trudy Kawami, Karen Miller, James Hoffman, Patricia Ross, Nancy Bekaert, Carol Wert, Harry Wet, Julia Fremont-Smith and Angela H. Sweeny, all of whom participated in the Centreville

hunt organized by Ulrich.

“We are proud of our visit to Centreville, and would like to thank Councilman Ulrich for inviting us to hunt in his district,” Reynolds said. “We are truly humbled by this honor and look forward to collaborating with the councilman in the future.”

RATS, which has been hunting for more than 25 years, responds to every citizen’s call and never accepts money for their services.

“I’d like to thank Richard Reynolds, the RATS team, and our fearless furry friends for coming out to my district,” Ulrich added. “While I hope that the rodents in Centreville are gone for good, I am grateful that the community – and all of New York City – can count on the RATS team.”

Ulrich’s dog, Tiny, also attended Monday’s ceremony. While it doesn’t look like the 8-year-old Yorkshire terrier will be joining the RATS squad for any hunts in the near future, the councilman reported that he did make 12 new friends this week and was named an honorary member of the pack.

Residents Rip Religious Groups for not Cleaning up Charles Park, Jamaica Bay after Ceremonies

By Michael V. Cusenza It seems that a decades-old problem has revisited the sands of Frank M. Charles Memorial Park and the adjacent waters of Jamaica Bay. Howard Beach residents this week ripped religious groups that regularly use the federal beach space for not being good neighbors and cleaning up after themselves following ritual ceremonies.

“This land is under National Park Service control and they claim they can’t stop it because it’s a freedom of religion issue,” a man who only provided the name “Rich” wrote to borough blog Queens Crap. “[The groups] dump into the water all kinds of fruits, vegetables, flowers, and food. On land they also leave behind statues, pictures and reams of cloth flags…I think if NPS is going to allow this the they should clean the beach more often; nobody [should be] on a beach with rotten fruit and it is bad for the health of the water and the animals that need a healthy en-

Photo Courtesy of Queens Crap

According to one neighbor, rotted fruit, flowers, and discarded religious items are a constant presence along Charles Park and in Jamaica Bay.

vironment to live.”

As of Wednesday afternoon, the post received nearly two-dozen comments, with the vast majority agreeing with Rich.

Commenter JQ LLC wrote, in part, “This has been going on for years…Just because you have the divine right to worship and practice

your religion doesn’t exempt you from making a disgusting mess of the beaches around these parks, which are small to begin with. It really shows an obnoxious sense of entitlement.”

Charles Park and Jamaica Bay are part of the federal Gateway National Recreation Area, and are operated by the U.S. National

Park Service.

“Gateway has increased the presence of both park rangers and U.S. Park Police officers at sites such as the North Channel Bridge and Frank Charles Park to interact with our visitors and educate them about the importance of the ‘leave no trace’ ethic, where visitors are expected to take away whatever items they bring to a site to minimize impacts to the environment as well as the experience of other visitors. The park has also increased its community outreach with religious groups in the area to promote this idea, which has been met with a very positive reception,” NPS spokeswoman Daphne Yun told The Forum on Tuesday. “Gateway works with all of our park visitors to emphasize the importance of keeping our environment clean and to create a new generation of park stewards. In addition to the daily maintenance by the staff at North Channel Bridge and Frank Charles Park, the park has many cleanups scheduled for this fall.

We welcome any volunteers who would like to join these or host their own cleanups.”

Get Rid of Harmful Household Products Safely at Sanitation-Organized Events

By Forum Staff To help residents dispose of harmful household products safely, the City Department of Sanitation hosts solvents, automotive, flammables, and electronics – SAFE – disposal events throughout the year in all five boroughs.

On Saturday, Sept. 9, DSNY will be in the Astoria Park parking lot from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. According to the agency, because SAFE events are so popular, be prepared for a line. If you intend to drive, you should enter

from Ditmars Boulevard onto 21st Street. DSNY indicated fluid, and batteries that there will be a walk-in area available for residents taking • Personal care items like unwanted medicines or cospublic transportation. metics The department emphasized that only NYC residential • Thermometers waste is accepted at SAFE disposal events, and no commer• Syringes (clearly labeled and packaged in a “sharps” cial vehicles are allowed. Residents must provide proof of container or other leak-proof, puncture-resistant container) residency in the five boroughs, such as a State driver’s li• Household products such as pesticides, paint, hazardcense or utility bill. ous cleaners, compact fluorescent light bulbs Accepted items include: • Electronics • Automotive products such as motor oil, transmission For more information, visit nyc.gov/sanitation.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 16 • Number 35 AUGUST 31, 2017 | 3

Ferry Good: Riders Praise New Public Transit Option

Introducing “Your Choice” Investments!

12- Month CD 24-Month CD 48-Month CD The City launched NYC Ferry’s Astoria Route this week.

By Forum Staff A City Economic Development Corporation survey of more than 1,300 customers found that across all three active routes – Rockaway, East River, and South Brooklyn – 93 percent of riders gave NYC Ferry a satisfaction rating of 7 or higher on a 10-point scale, with 66 percent giving the highest possible score, NYCEDC announced on Friday.

In an effort to better understand ridership patterns and preferences, NYCEDC said it crafted survey questions to gauge customer satisfaction, demographic information, and usage patterns. Key findings of the survey include: Rider Satisfaction: 93 percent of riders gave NYC Ferry a satisfaction rating of 7 or higher.

• 66 percent gave NYC Ferry a rating of 10.

• 11 percent gave it a rating of 9.

• 11 percent gave it a rating of 8.

• 4 percent gave it a rating of 7.

The Economic Development Corporation indicated that its staff distributed surveys to riders aboard NYC Ferry vessels and col-

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Approval Office

lected responses as passengers disembarked.

Responses were collected on all active routes over two weekends and eight weekdays during five time blocks: weekday morning, midday, and evening, and weekend morning and afternoon. Findings are based on 1,345 total responses.

The city launched the sea-faring public transit option in May, one month ahead of schedule. Mayor Bill de Blasio and borough elected officials celebrated the grand opening of the first two routes with a ceremonial first ride from the Rockaways to Manhattan.

“We’re excited that after less than four months, the vast majority of riders have had a positive experience with NYC Ferry,” said NYCEDC President and CEO James Patchett. “We’re also seeing the service meeting our goal of supporting commuters around the five boroughs.”

Last week, NYCEDC released the NYC Ferry Astoria Route schedule, the final route to launch in 2017. Starting Tuesday at 6:30 a.m., the new route began to make stops at Astoria, Roosevelt Island, Long Island

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City, East 34th Street in Midtown Manhattan, and Wall Street’s Pier 11. Astoria Route passengers will also be able to transfer to all other NYC Ferry routes at East 34th Street and Pier 11, NYCEDC noted.

The opening of the Astoria Route follows the launches of the Rockaway and South Brooklyn Routes, and the integration of the East River Route. Combined, the routes have served over 1.4 million riders to date, according to the corporation.

Once the NYC Ferry system is fully operational, the combined routes will cover more

than 60 miles of waterway at $2.75 per ride, the same cost of a subway ride, and the cost of a 30-day unlimited ferry pass will be $121, mirroring the cost of a 30-day MetroCard.

The two final routes, Lower East Side and Soundview, will launch next year.

And due to high demand, NYC Ferry, which is operated by Hornblower, recently announced that it will be adding capacity to three of its 20 boats. These new vessels will be outfitted with larger engines and a capacity of up to 250 passengers. The other 17 boats each can hold up to 149 passengers.

Special Operations FDNY/NYPD Team Sent to Texas to Help Area Crews in Hurricane Harvey Aftermath

By Michael V. Cusenza A special operations squad composed of more than 100 City Police and Fire personnel was deployed to Texas early Sunday morning to assist with rescue and recovery efforts in areas impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

Urban Search and Rescue Team New York Task Force-1, which features members trained to respond to catastrophic events, staged its equipment and resources in San Antonio.

“We are set up for all types of rescues, including swiftwater rescues. We have a compilation of tools that include boats, motors, dry suits, rescue equipment for collapsed structures, rope equipment for

confined spaces, and a large compilation of Haz-Mat equipment and tools. We’re also supplied with a large, self-sufficient cache of food and supplies that make us sustainable for up to 72 hours in a row. I believe we’re ready to face any danger,” said FDNY Battalion Chief Jack Flatley, task force leader.

According to the NYPD, the convoy includes rescue equipment, boats, dry suits, and food supplies. The team will be assisting local first responders with relocating stranded people as well as emergency rescue when necessary.

“After Superstorm Sandy, so many cities stepped up to help our people,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “We’ll do all we can to help The elite team left the city for Texas early Sunday morning. those affected by this storm.”

4 AUGUST 31, 2017 • Number 35 VOL. 16 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

South Richmond Hill Resident The Mary Louis Academy Awarded Full-Tuition Scholarship for Grad Study at Queens College

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Meldryck Parraga also set for his first full-time teaching job at August Martin High School

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Meldryck Parraga

By Forum Staff A South Richmond Hill man has received a full-tuition scholarship for his courses towards a Queens College master’s degree to teach students with disabilities, the school announced on Friday.

Meldryck Parraga, the first in his family to earn a college diploma, also will begin his first full-time teaching job this month at August Martin High School in Jamaica.

“This means the world to me – I never expected to receive a scholarship,” said Parraga, who is of Dominican and Ecuadorian descent. “It will provide me with the means to further my education while also allowing me to help out my parents. It definitely relieves the financial strain.”

According to Queens College, Parraga earned a BA in Social Studies Education (grades 7-12), with a minor in political science. And as the recipient of the Peter Greenman Scholarship, the tuition and fees for his graduate work at QC will be paid in full, the school noted.

“Like so many of our students who are immigrants or the children of immigrants, Meldryck took advantage of the opportunities that college offers and focused 100 percent on achieving his goals,” said Félix Matos Rodriguez, president of Queens College. “We’re very proud that he has received this scholarship and glad that he will

Photo Courtesy of Queens College

be putting his education to work at a high school in his home borough.”

The Peter Greenman Scholarship for graduate study, funded by Community Teachers Initiative, Inc., was first offered at Queens College in 2015. It is awarded to outstanding students with financial need who have demonstrated an interest in teaching, tutoring, or otherwise helping students in the metro New York area, and have participated in activities that benefit the community. Parraga, the third Greenman Scholar at Queens College, will be joining a Division of Education that is one of the largest producers of teachers and educational leaders for schools in the five boroughs. By focusing on “transforming educational practices,” the division, according to Queens College, expands its impact on the well-being of students and families and conducts research and scholarship to promote equity, excellence and ethics in teaching.

So what motivated Parraga to focus on special-ed students?

“To me, teaching students with disabilities means providing the best education for people from all walks of life,” he said. “Too often it happens that students with disabilities aren’t held to the same standards, which isn’t fair to them because they can achieve just as much as anyone can.”

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Woman Allegedly Brandishes Machete in Fight with Fellow Richmond Hill Vendor

After a brief tussle, responding officers were able to separate the woman from the machete and take both vendors into custody.

According to Spectrum News New York 1, one of the officers suffered minor scrapes during the scrap.+

By Michael V. Cusenza A dispute over cash on Sunday night in Richmond Hill turned violent when a vendor allegedly threatened a fellow street merchant with a machete, according to police and published reports.

The man and woman got into a heated argument over money around 9 p.m. on Liberty Avenue near 114th Street, authorities said. That’s when she allegedly brandished the broad blade.

Photo Courtesy of Google

The scuffle took place on Liberty Avenue near 114th Street.

City Announces Probe into Tenant Harassment at Sunnyside Condo Displaying Hate Symbols in Lobby

By Forum Staff The City has launched an investigation into allegations of tenant harassment at a Sunnyside building which has displays of Nazi and Confederate imagery, swastikas and other hate symbols in the lobby, the NYC Commission on Human Rights announced on Tuesday.

The probe has been initiated on behalf of the City following public reports from City Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (DSunnyside), tenants, and condominium owners of a hostile environment due to alleged tenant harassment by the property manager or managers connected to the offensive displays in the common area of 4755 39th Place. The commission noted that under NYC Human Rights Law it is illegal to discriminate against or harass tenants because of their race, color, religion, immigration status, sexual orientation and other protected classes.

“The tenants of this Sunnyside condominium have been terrorized at the hands of this property manager for far too long,” Van Bramer said. “After speaking with the commissioner on behalf of the tenants and condominium owners, I’m pleased that Commission on Human Rights has

Photo Courtesy of the Anti-Defamation League

Anti-Defamation League Regional Director Evan Bernstein delivers remarks in front of the Sunnyside building.

decided to open an investigation into this condominium board member and property manager after tenants reported constant intimidation, harassment, and retaliation.

Clearly, their rights are being violated. And with the announcement of this investigation today, we send a strong message that we uphold and defend the rights of tenants in New York City.”

According to the commission, it is illegal for housing providers, landlords, or their employees or agents to: Discriminate against tenants by creating a hostile environment of harassment based on their race, religion, immigration status, sexual orientation, or any other protected class.

Harass or threaten tenants because of

their race, religion, immigration status, sexual orientation or any other protected class.

Refuse to make repairs or provide equal services to tenants because of their protected class.

Retaliate against tenants who report discriminatory behavior or neglect to ensure employees and agents are trained on their responsibilities under the NYC Human Rights Law, including superintendents, maintenance workers, brokers, and salespeople.

“It is unacceptable that in Queens, the most diverse area in the country, immigrant tenants are facing threatening behavior and symbols of hate in their homes,” said Kavita Pawria-Sanchez, assistant commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs. “Every tenant in New York City has the right to live without fear of discrimination or harassment, including immigrant New Yorkers, and the City will not hesitate to protect that right. We applaud our colleagues at the City’s Commission on Human Rights for launching this investigation, and we will continue our outreach work with the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit and the Public Engagement Unit in Sunnyside to educate tenants on their rights as New Yorkers.”

St. Albans Man Charged with Murder in Shooting Death of Woman

By Forum Staff Authorities have charged Joel Lattore, of St. Albans, with murder in the shooting death of 21-year-old Teriana Holcombe on August 15. Police say that the 34-year-old shooter, had had a physical fight with the victim’s friend earlier that evening and returned with a group of friends.

As Holcombe and her friends walked home from a store, a male from the other group called out to them and when they turned to see who was calling to them, shooting began. Holcombe was struck once in the head and Lattore fled the scene.

The defendant was arraigned in Queens The victim was identified as Teriana Holcombe, 21, of Cambria Heights.

6 AUGUST 31, 2017 • Number 35 VOL. 16 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Photo Courtesy of GoFundMe

Criminal Court before Judge Elisa Koenderman on charges of second-degree murder, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and first-degree reckless endangerment. Judge Koenderman held the defendant without bail and ordered him to return to court on September 8, 2017.

“The senseless killing of this young woman is another example of why we must remain vigilant in the fight against illegal firearms,” said District Attorney Richard Brown. “The victim in this case was just 21 years old and could have lived a long, fulfilling life if not for this needless gun violence.”

If convicted, Lattore faces up to 25 years to life in prison.

Sex Offenders Living ‘Dangerously’ Close to Pre-Ks: State Senate Report

By Michael V. Cusenza A maddening loophole in New York law is allowing sex offenders who have been convicted of committing crimes against young children to live near standalone pre-kindergartens throughout the city, according to a new report released on Tuesday by the Independent Democratic Conference of the State Senate.

Under current law, the Sex Offender Registration Act, “Preying on Pre-Ks: The IDC Investigates Predators’ Proximity to Pre-Ks and Kindergartens” notes, the definition of the word “school” does not include standalone pre-kindergartens, and an investigation discovered 93 sexual predators found guilty of committing such crimes against children as firstdegree rape, sodomy, first-degree sexual abuse, and sexual exploitation of a minor, living within 1,000 feet of these facilities across the five boroughs. Pre-Ks attached to traditional elementary schools are covered by the current statute, and 60 predators are violating the law which prohibits Level 2 and 3

Photo Courtesy of IDC

According to the Independent Democratic Conference’s “Preying on Pre-Ks” report, 93 sexual predators convicted of committing crimes against children live within 1,000 feet of standalone pre-kindergartens across the five boroughs.

sex offenders from living within the set distance, the IDC said.

In response to the frightening findings of the IDC analysis, two senators have introduced legislation to close the loophole.

Sen. Jeff Klein’s (D-Bronx) bill expands the 1,000-foot prohibition to include pre-kindergarten and kindergarten facilities.

“It flies in the face of spirit of the law that standalone pre-kindergartens and kindergartens are

not considered schools,” Klein said.

And Sen. Tony Avella’s (DBayside) proposed law would require uniform standards for measuring the distance between a sex offender’s home and nearby schools. This will clarify and correct any discrepancies in determining the distance between a sex offender’s residence and schools to ensure compliance with the current law.

“It is unconceivable to me that sex offenders can be residing within one thousand feet of Pre-K program locations in the city. Current law prohibits them from living within that distance from schools grounds, but incredibly, they can live near Pre-K facilities. This is just unreal,” said Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst). “We must act immediately to prevent this situation from happening, since it endangers the lives of thousands of

children. We must ensure we keep those who preyed on our kids as far away as possible from schools.

This is why the Assembly must act and pass these two bills that will go a long way to protect our most vulnerable New Yorkers. I want to thank Senators Klein and Avella for their efforts on this particular front.”

The IDC report highlighted three sex offenders living within 1,000 feet of Pre-K programs in borough communities Queens Village, St. Albans, and Woodside.

It also spotlighted the cases of three sex offenders living within 1,000 feet of schools in Jamaica, Rego Park, and St. Albans.

“As lawmakers, we have a duty to make sure that our children are always protected to the best of our state’s abilities. We also have a duty to make sure that the laws that are designed to protect us are as clear and enforceable as possible,” Avella added. “It is my hope that, by requiring uniform standards, my legislation can once and for all clear up any confusion that existed so that we can begin enforcing this important law.”

Ozone Park Man Charged With Attempting To Provide Material Support to ISIS

By Forum Staff A young Ozone Park man on Monday was arrested by federal agents on charges of trying to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al Sham, commonly known as ISIS, according to acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District Bridget Rohde.

Parveg Ahmed, 22, a U.S. citizen, was taken into custody at John F. Kennedy International Airport and arraigned on Tuesday afternoon in Brooklyn.

As alleged in the complaint, Ahmed traveled to Saudi Arabia in June 2017, purportedly to celebrate an Islamic religious holiday. Upon his arrival, Ahmed attempted to travel to Syria to enter ISIS-controlled territory. He was detained in what Department of Justice officials described as “a Middle Eastern country bordering Syria.”

Previously, Ahmed had repeatedly expressed support on social media for ISIS and for individuals who provided support to the foreign terrorist organization’s mission of violent extremism. On July 17 of this year, agents assigned

Ahmed was arrested on Monday at JFK International Airport.

to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Joint Terrorism Task Force obtained a search warrant for Ahmed’s personal computer, and learned, among other things, that he had viewed or listened to recordings of radical Islamic faith leaders Anwar al-Awlaki, a United States-born cleric and prominent leader of the foreign terrorist organization al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, who was killed on or about Sept. 30, 2011; and Abdullah el-Faisal, a Jamaican-born cleric, who was found guilty in the

United Kingdom of, among other things, solicitation to commit murder, for preaching to followers to kill individuals, including Americans, because he deemed them to be enemies of Islam. On Aug. 28, 2017, JTTF agents obtained a search warrant for electronic devices found in Ahmed’s possession when he was detained attempting to travel to Syria. Examination of the devices revealed, among other things: Messages sent to third parties expressing a desire to travel to

Photo Courtesy of JFKIAT

ISIS-controlled territories.

A message explaining that Ahmed planned to join ISIS in Syria to wage violent jihad, stating, “[W]e have made it to Dawlatul Islam [ISIS] in Syria. In sha Allah [God willing] we will join the Jihad very soon and in Sha Allah [God willing] we will then join the ranks of the Shuhuda [martyrs]. The West has invaded the land of the Muslims and is constantly attacking it.” (EDITOR’S NOTE: Ahmed’s messages were not edited and published

here verbatim.)

An internet browser history that indicates Ahmed was researching maps of ISIS-controlled locations.

Ahmed was deported to the U.S. on Monday and arrested at JFK. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

“As we allege, Parveg Ahmed attempted to travel to Syria aligning himself with ISIS instead of his fellow Americans. Like others before him who chartered a similar path to join this violent terror group, Ahmed now finds his journey ends the same way – in a New York courtroom answering for his actions,” said FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Bill Sweeney, Jr. “The FBI New York Joint Terrorism Task Force has a global reach and remains vigilant to the type of threat we allege was posed

by Ahmed. I would like to thank all of our partner agencies for their continued vigilance. I would also encourage the community to notify law enforcement when they spot suspicious activity and behavior which helps the JTTF disrupt individuals aiming to conduct violence.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 16 • Number 35 AUGUST 31, 2017 | 7

Peralta Urges Assembly to Pass State Liquor Community Liaison Bill

By Michael V. Cusenza State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst) recently called on the Assembly to follow the Upper Chamber and pass the bill he introduced in January to establish a state liquor community liaison on each of the City’s community boards.

According to State Senate records, S.344 “creates a state liquor authority community liaison to act between the state liquor authority and community boards of the city of New York; requires the community boards to be given at least 60 days notice before any wine, beer, or liquor license is issued, renewed, or altered within the boundaries of such community board.”

“This is about making sure that the community informs the State Liquor Authority about rowdy and bad neighbors when the establishment’s liquor license is up for renewal. Under the proposal, the SLA should consider specific concerns and defend the

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Peralta’s Office

“Most bars, restaurants and clubs are law-abiding good neighbors, but there are a few bad apples that can disrupt and destroy a community’s quality of life,” Peralta said.

interests of the community. Most bars, restaurants and clubs are law-abiding good neighbors, but there are a few bad apples that can disrupt and destroy a community’s quality of life,” Peralta said.

8 AUGUST 31, 2017 • Number 35 VOL. 16 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

“My proposal calls for a liaison between the SLA and community boards to prevent noisy and disruptive establishments from affecting the quality of life of the communities they are located in.”

According to legislative information provided by the Senate, the purpose or general idea of the bill is to “make it easier for the New York State Liquor Authority to take into account the sugges-

tions of the community boards in regards to issuing liquor licenses.”

The bill indicates that the community board liaison will be responsible to attend community board meetings, submit reports to the SLA relative to the concerns of the community board, and present to the SLA any recommendations conveyed by the community board. The community liaison will also inform the community board of every SLA scheduled meeting, as well as provide its members with the agenda for the meeting with at least 15-day notice.

“Many communities have dealt with problematic, uncooperative establishments that disrupt the quality of life of surrounding neighborhoods,” said Assemblyman Ron Kim (D-Flushing), the measure’s sponsor in the Assembly. “The creation of an SLA liaison position for each community board gives local residents a voice in the licensing process, and a greater platform for them to share their concerns about potential bad neighbors.”

Debate over Fate of Christopher Columbus Statue Continues

By Michael V. Cusenza Mayor Bill de Blasio this week vowed to march in this year’s Christopher Columbus Day Parade, even though he has indicated that city statues dedicated to the controversial pioneer, including the world-famous monument in Columbus Circle, may be removed.

In the wake of the events in Charlottesville, Va., and other parts of the country, de Blasio pledged to appoint a commission to review all city monuments over a 90-day period, and insisted that Columbus tributes would not be spared scrutiny.

This has not sat well with Italian-American advocacy groups.

“We are proud to stand up in support of the Columbus Monument and we will do all in our power to preserve its continued presence in our great city of New York,” said Columbus Citizens Foundation President Angelo Vivolo.

As Vivolo noted, the statue at the center of the circle was created by renowned Italian sculptor Gaetano Rosso in 1892 and funded by Italian-American immigrants.

At the request of the City, the foundation played a significant role in the statue’s restoration, which was completed in 1992.

“Every year we are asked the question, ‘Why is the celebration of Columbus important to the Italian- American community?’ The legacy of Columbus was essential in truly legitimizing our transition from Italians to Americans. Our ItalianAmerican ancestors, facing bigotry and discrimination, identified Columbus as an Italian celebrated greatly across America for

Photo Courtesy of CUNY

“We are proud to stand up in support of the Columbus Monument and we will do all in our power to preserve its continued presence,” the Columbus Citizens Foundation said.

establishing a lasting bridge between the Old and New World,” Vivolo said. “Columbus was an explorer, a renowned sailor, and later governor who certainly partook in actions over the course of his career that were deemed unjust. The foundation believes that these actions and their long-term consequences deserve serious reflection and acknowledgement, but we cannot and will not deny the role this seafarer from Genoa had in the eventual shaping of the United

States of America.”

Vivolo added, “As all nations do, we must continue to reevaluate our history as Americans, and whom we choose to honor.

That being said, we will state for the record that we will not allow that reflection to come at the expense of a monument that has come to represent the many achievements that Italian-Americans have accomplished.”

Earlier this month, Gov. Andrew Cuo-

mo sent a letter calling on Acting Secretary of the Army Ryan McCarthy to remove the names of Confederate generals from New York City streets.

“Given the events of this week, including the violence and terrorism perpetrated by white supremacists in Charlottesville and the resulting emboldening of the voices of Nazis and white supremacists, I now strongly urge…them to rename these streets,” Cuomo wrote.

Federal Grant Sets up Study on Medical Marijuana, Pain and Opioid Use

By Forum Staff The National Institute of Health has awarded a $3.8 million research grant to Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Health System for the first long-term study to investigate whether treatment with medical marijuana can lead to a reduction in opioid use in adults with chronic pain, Vireo Health of New York, which will be partners in the analysis, announced on Thursday.

According to Vireo, the NIH study – “Does medical cannabis reduce opioid analgesics in HIV+ and HIV- adults with pain?” – will enroll 250 HIV-positive and HIV-negative New York adults with chronic pain who use opioids and who have received certification from their physicians to use medical marijuana, which is provided through approved dispensaries in NY. Over 18 months, the study subjects will complete web-based questionnaires every two weeks, which will focus on pain levels and the medical and illicit use of marijuana and opioids. They’ll also provide urine and

ing of medical marijuana safety and use in treating patients faced with debilitating pain and suffering,” said Stephen Dahmer, M.D., chief medical officer of Vireo Health, one of five companies licensed by the State to cultivate, manufacture, and dispense medical marijuana. “We are deeply appreciative of Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Health System’s commitment to research regarding the role of medical cannabis in the opioid epidemic and the potential impact this vital research will have on our patients.”

Vireo owns and operates the city’s only medical marijuana dispensary, which is located on Queens Boulevard in Elmhurst.

“We applaud the NIH – a federal agency – for funding a grant which represents an innovative collaboration between Photo Courtesy of Vireo Health State-licensed medical marijuana compaThe study will investigate whether treatment with medical marijuana can lead to a reduction in opioid use in nies and leading healthcare and research adults with chronic pain. institutions,” said Vireo CEO Ari Hoffblood samples at in-person research visits how medical marijuana use affects the use nung. “While our organization is actively engaged in numerous research initiatives, every three months. In addition, in-depth of opioids. interviews with a select group of the par“As a consultant to this study, I am eager this is the first time we had the opportunity ticipants will explore their perceptions of to contribute to an improved understand- to participate in a federally-financed study.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 16 • Number 35 AUGUST 31, 2017 | 9

First Responders Rescue Man and Woman from Ship Sinking in Jamaica Bay

The boaters were rescued after their vessel took on water and began to sink in Jamaica Bay.

By Michael V. Cusenza First responders from elite City Police and Fire divisions on Sunday afternoon rescued a man and a woman from their fishing vessel as it began to sink in the waters of Jamaica Bay, police and published reports noted.

According to the New York Daily News, the unidentified boaters were approximate-

By Michael V. Cusenza

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

ly one mile south of Breezy Point when the engine of their ship malfunctioned and water started to leak in. They then put out a distress call over a marine radio channel.

“Nice job by Aviation & SCUBA in coordination w/ @FDNY when they rescued occupants of a vessel that took on water in the [vicinity of] Breezy Point,” NYPD Special Operations Chief Harry Wedin tweeted.

The Pharmacist’s Corner Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

Back to School—

Perscription Meds at School We all know what’s gone on for the last few weeks––getting ready to send our kids back to school while they try desperately to hang on to every second of the remaining summer vacation. For parents and kids, it’s a hectic, exciting time fraught with activity, planning, shopping, and far too many other things to list.

But for the parents of one or more of the almost seven million children who is currently being treated for a chronic medical condition, going back to school can be a much more complicated scenario.

Asthma and diabetes are just tow of the diseases that sends kids to school with a lot more than glue sticks and nice new notebooks in their backpacks.

Kids that have to carry their medications to school get into the habit at a tender young age and making sure your child understands the importance of keeping up with the proper therapy for whatever ails them is a key component to lowering the stress level— yours and theirs.

If your child has to use prescription meds during school, here are some tips to keep them safe and focused on their therapy.

KNOW THE SCHOOL’S RULES: -who is designated to administer

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We know how complicated this can be but staying organized is key to your success.

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Cuomo and de Blasio Rip Each Other over Rikers Island

Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio recently traded blows in the media over Rikers Island and the fate of the infamous jail complex.

Following the indictment of more than twodozen gang members for attacks on fellow inmates and two City Department of Correction officers in Rikers facilities, Cuomo counsel Alphonso David characterized the island as “savage and inhumane,” and blasted the administration’s plan to close the jail system over a 10-year period.

“Saying it will take 10 years is tantamount to saying we have no real plan to close it. Ten years may see three different mayors and three different City Councils. This proposed closing plan will have no relevance to those administrations—Gov. Cuomo, for example, is not 10 years later implementing Gov. [Eliot] Spitzer’s plans,” David said. “ln short, this 10year timeline ignores the urgent need for action now.

Ten years condemns thousands more young people to be abused by Rikers. How many people have to die and how many lives have to be ruined to make government act? We need action now.”

David also noted that this year, the State “ensured the majority of 16 and 17-year-olds will be removed from Rikers Island. It’s time that New York City step up to the plate with a real plan to close this jail on a rapidly accelerated timeline.”

The de Blasio administration responded in kind.

“As [New York] attorney general, Andrew CuoPhoto Courtesy of the Office of the Governor mo was silent on Rikers Island. As governor, Andrew Governor Cuomo and Mayor de Blasio have sparred numerous times since the latter took Cuomo leads a state prison system marred by abuse, office in 2014.

10 AUGUST 31, 2017 • Number 35 VOL. 16 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

neglect and escapes. He runs a state court system responsible for many inmates being on Rikers Island too long,” said City Hall Press Secretary Eric Phillips. “His new-found concern is welcome, but unless the governor is willing to reform his own embattled state prison system and court system, it’s impossible to see his outburst as anything but political theatre.”

In March, de Blasio and City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito announced a 10-year timeline to finally shutter the island.

However, as de Blasio cautioned, it “will not happen overnight” and the process cannot be viewed as a quick fix to a decades-old issue.

“There is no doubt that the road to Rikers Island’s closure will be long and arduous,” the mayor added.

“It will require that local officials and stakeholders stand up and support facilities that meet our moral obligation to thousands of New Yorkers whose lives we will never turn our backs on. It will require that our state government, and each component of our criminal justice system, contribute to the reform efforts critical to reducing our jail population and improving re-entry services and educational programming. The length of this process will also require continued investment in the facilities and conditions on Rikers Island that remain key to rehabilitation efforts for thousands of New Yorkers in the years ahead.”

De Blasio also noted that each day there are approximately 9,500 people in custody in the City’s jail system; and in order for the City to close Rikers Island, that population number needs to dip down to 5,000.

De Blasio Signs Legislation to Curb Smoking, Tobacco Usage to Historically Low Levels

By Forum Staff Mayor Bill de Blasio on Monday signed seven bills to help reduce the number of smokers in the city by 160,000 by 2020.

According to the administration, while smoking rates in the five boroughs have declined to 14.3 percent in 2015 from 21.5 percent in 2002, the city still has more than 900,000 smokers. The new series of laws will help decrease the smoking prevalence to a historically low rate of 12 percent by 2020, the City said.

“I am excited to witness the impact these bills will have on the lives of New Yorkers,” said Dr. Herminia Palacio, deputy mayor for Health and Human Services. “These bills tackle smoking and tobacco in a comprehensive manner that will both save lives and reduce preventable diseases. In offering New Yorkers healthier options – from where they shop to the buildings they live in – we bring all of our City’s resources to bear so that we can all live longer and healthier lives.”

The administration has said that the new legislation will put NYC at the forefront of smoking and tobacco control by: raising the

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office

The new legislation raises the minimum prices for all tobacco products, including cigarettes, to $13 a pack.

minimum prices for all tobacco products, including cigarettes, to $13 a pack from $10.50, and imposing a new 10-percent local tax on tobacco products other than cigarettes; capping and reducing through attrition the number of tobacco retailers citywide; creating a retail li-

cense for e-cigarettes and capping the number of e-cigarette retailers; increasing the fee for a cigarette retail dealer license; requiring all residential buildings to create a smoking policy and disclosing it to both current and prospective tenants; prohibiting smoking and the use of e-

cigarettes in common areas in multiple dwellings with fewer than ten units; and banning the sale of tobacco products at pharmacies.

“Even though tobacco is a leading cause of premature death across the country, Big Tobacco will stop at nothing to hook people on these deadly products,” de Blasio said. “We are sending a loud and clear message that we will not let their greed kill any more New Yorkers without a fight. These new laws will not only help reduce the number of smokers in our city, but also save lives.”

According to the administration, tobacco continues to be a leading contributor to preventable, premature death in the five boroughs, killing an estimated 12,000 people annually.

Despite an overall decline on smoking rates among young people, youth have increasingly used a range of other tobacco products: youth cigar, cigarillo, little cigar, smokeless tobacco, and hookah use, together, exceed cigarette use. Nearly nine out of 10 smokers first tried smoking before age 18. In the city, adolescent use of e-cigarettes is more than double the current smoking rate, 15.9 percent compared with 5.8 percent.

City Council Votes to Establish Office of Nightlife

By Michael V. Cusenza The City Council recently approved a bill to establish NYC’s first Office of Nightlife and Nightlife Advisory Board.

According to the council, the new office will conduct outreach, review information on complaints and violations, and serve as a liaison between nightlife establishments, residents, and government. The office will also help nightlife establishments navigate City licensing requirements, permits, and other approvals, and advise the mayor and various agencies on trends in the nightlife industry, as well as make policy recommendations on an ongoing basis.

The Nightlife Advisory Board would consist of 12 members – eight appointed by the council and four by the mayor – and be tasked with evaluating City laws and policies on an ongoing basis to make findings and recommendations that address common issues and trends in the nightlife industry.

“NYC’s nightlife culture is an integral part of its identity, yet bureaucratic red tape, rising rents and lack of community planning has made it increasingly difficult for venues that contribute to our iconic nightlife to stay in business,” said Councilman Rafael Espinal (D-Brooklyn), the bill’s sponsor. “This bill will create a space where all stakeholders can come together to solve conflicts and build bridges. From local communities who deserve a decent quality of life, to businesses who are trying to do the right thing but are struggling to navigate government processes and are subject to hefty fines, this Office and Advisory Board will be there for you. It is time NYC dedicate resources to this sector of our economy that produces not only financial capital, but also, cultural capital for our city.”

Additionally last week, the council voted

Photo Courtesy of William Alatriste/New York City Council

Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito and her colleagues recently approved a bill that would create the city’s first Office of Nightlife.

in favor of legislation “to address the root causes of police misconduct.”

According to the legislative body, six City entities – the Law Department, the Comptroller, the Police Department, the Inspector General for the Police Department, the Civilian Complaint Review Board, and the Commission to Combat Police Corruption – collect information on police misconduct through complaints and lawsuits; however, there is limited coordination and analysis on how to use this information to improve policing, better support police officers, and reduce costs to the City.

According to Councilman Jumaane Williams (D-Brooklyn), sponsor of Intro. 119-D, the bill would create the most comprehensive review of the root causes of police misconduct in the country by requiring bi-annual

reporting by the Law Department on lawsuits alleging police misconduct; regular studies by the PD-IG examining all sources of information on police misconduct held by various City entities, identifying patterns, and issuing recommendations on ways to reduce misconduct; and a study by the Police Department on determinations by judges that an officer’s testimony at a trial is not credible.

“I want to applaud the mayor’s administration and NYPD Commissioner O’Neill for their leadership in making tangible advances on police reform. However, these accomplishments haven’t necessarily been felt on the ground in certain communities because our City still has areas of opportunity when it comes to police accountability and transparency,” Williams said. “I believe that Intro 119 will help move us forward by providing real information on patterns of behavior so that the issue of problem officers can be identified more swiftly and addressed.”

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 16 • Number 35 AUGUST 31, 2017 | 11

EDITORIAL

Make up or Break up...but Please –Shut up A dysfunctional relationship of dynastic proportions recently reared its ugly head, and once again, the children bore the brunt of the fallout.

We’re of course referencing the time-honored, hate-hate dynamic that is Gov. Andrew Cuomo-Mayor Bill de Blasio.

Last Thursday, after Bronx District Attorney Darcel Clark announced the indictment of more than two-dozen gang members for attacks on fellow inmates and two City Department of Correction officers in Rikers Island facilities, Cuomo counsel Alphonso David blasted the de Blasio administration’s plan to close the infamous jail system over a 10-year period.

“Saying it will take 10 years is tantamount to saying we have no real plan to close it. Ten years may see three different mayors and three different City Councils. This proposed closing plan will have no relevance to those administrations—Gov. Cuomo, for example, is not 10 years later implementing Gov. [Eliot] Spitzer’s plans,” David said. “ln short, this 10-year timeline ignores the urgent need for action now. Ten years condemns thousands more young people to be abused by Rikers. How many people have to die and

how many lives have to be ruined to make government act? We need action now.”

And de Blasio just couldn’t let an unprovoked, harshly worded attack lie. Can you blame him?

“As [New York] attorney general, Andrew Cuomo was silent on Rikers Island.

As governor, Andrew Cuomo leads a state prison system marred by abuse, neglect and escapes. He runs a state court sys-

tem responsible for many inmates being on Rikers Island too long,” said City Hall Press Secretary Eric Phillips. “His newfound concern is welcome, but unless the governor is willing to reform his own embattled state prison system and court system, it’s impossible to see his outburst as anything but political theatre.”

Ouch.

This isn’t the first time these loqua-

cious lovebirds have attacked each other in newsprint. Both have taken veiled and not-so-veiled shots at each other numerous times since de Blasio moved into Gracie Mansion, clashing over everything from bridge lighting to MTA funding— and seemingly everything in-between.

But while this uniquely New York version of “political theatre” is admittedly entertaining from a journalist’s perspective, as proud, tax-paying Empire State residents, it has become increasingly embarrassing. The petty war of words has to come to an end – for the sake of progress; the value of a unified political power couple on the national stage; and the general sanity of the people that pay their salaries.

It has gotten so bad that Hillary Clinton, speaking at last year’s Al Smith Dinner in the city, and with The Donald in the house, took a memorable swipe at Andy and Bill.

“Your Eminence,” Clinton said to Timothy Cardinal Dolan, also in attendance, “you do deserve great credit for bringing together two people who have been at each other’s throats, mortal enemies, bitter foes.

I’ve got to ask: How did you get the governor and mayor here together tonight?”

Make up or break up, fellas. But, please, do us all a favor and shut up.

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Notice of Formation of 503 WS RISE LLC. Art. of Org. filed Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/29/2017. Office location: Queens County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: The LLC, 5671 49th Place, Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice is hereby given that license #1304430 has been applied by the undersigned to sell beer, wine and liquor under the alcoholic beverage control law at 35-15 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106 for on-premises consumption. 35-15 Rest Corp. d/b/a Madame Marie’s Bar.

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Miguel Reyes CCTV/IP Camera Installation 917.662.5373 Miguelreyes@gmail.com THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 16 • Number 35 AUGUST 31, 2017 | 13

Legal Notices Notice of Formation, YOSEKA LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/19/2017. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: CORPORATE FILINGS OF NEW YORK, 90 STATE STREET, STE 700, OFFICE 40, ALBANY, NY, 12207. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of formation of THE LADDER PROPERTY GROUP LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 6/29/17. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: 16403 Jewel Ave., Fresh Meadows, NY 11365. Purpose: any lawful act.

VEBO LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 07/18/2017. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Vladimir Banjac, 67-30 Clyde St., #6U, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of formation of CATHY CHIU LAM CHB LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 5/11/2017. Office location: QUEENS County.

SSNY has been designated for service of process.

SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to CATHY CHIU LAM CHB LLC 14909 183RD Street, Room 208, Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation: Eurofin LLC Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/08/2017. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY designated for service of process.

SSNY shall mail copies of any process served against the LLC to: SABAJ LAW, P.C, 121A Nassau Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222. Purpose: Any lawful purpose or activity

Notice of Formation of SEAVIEW A DEVELOPER MANAGING MEMBER, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/26/17. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 42-09 235th St., 2nd Fl., Douglaston, NY 11363. 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.

Notice of formation of MOSAIC STREET BOOKS Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on 07/20 2107 Office location: Queens County. 8SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, New York 11228.

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SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Index No. 714697/2016 STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT – COUNTY OF QUEENS HSBC BANK USA, N.A., Plaintiff, -vs- THE HEIRS AT LARGE OF RITA XAVIER A/K/A RITA MARGARET XAVIER, deceased, and all persons who are husbands, widows, grantees, mortgagees, lienors, heirs, devisees, distributees, successors in interest of such of them as may be dead, and their husbands and wives, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors of interest of all of whom and whose names and places are unknown to Plaintiff; ARIELLE XAVIER; KATIA XAVIER A/K/A KATIA GELMAN; GLENN XAVIER; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants.

Mortgaged Premises: 89-07 211ST STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11427 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff ’s attorney within twenty

Notice of formation of ABUNDIA CLEANING SERVICES LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 3/20/17. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: IVONNE SIBRIAN, 157-11 SANFORD AVE., APT#C2, FLUSHING, NY 11355. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of formation of KALEN LLC Articles of Org. filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/01/2017. Office located in Queens County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to: LEGALINC CORPORATE SERVICES INC. , 1967 WEHRLE DRIVE, SUITE 1 #086, Bufalo, NY 14221. Purpose: Any lawful activity or purpose.

Notice is hereby given that license #1302407 has been applied by the undersigned to sell liquor, wine and beer under the alcoholic beverage control law at 9-15 WYCOFF AVE, RIDGEWOOD, NY 11385 for on-premises consumption. WYCOFF WEIRFIELD CORP. Notice of Formation of 130-02 SOUTH CONDUIT AVENUE TRIANGLE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/07/17. Office location: Queens County.

Princ. office of LLC: 130-02 S. Conduit Ave., Queens, NY 11430. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 30-56 Whitestone Expwy., Ste. 300, Whitestone, NY 11354.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

KYLINEN LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 07/25/17. 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, 135-41 Coolidge Ave, Briarwood, NY 11435. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of IKIGAI DEVELOPMENT, LLC. Articles of Org. filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/04/2017.

Office located in Queens County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to: MASHIRO IKEDA, 39-49 29TH STREET, Notice of formation of CAIT AND THE LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: Any CRITTERS LLC Articles of Org. filed with lawful activity or purpose. the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on Notice of formation of DG SAFETY NY LLC 07/17/2017. Office located in Queens County.

SSNY has been designated for service of process. Articles of Org. filed with the Secretary of State of SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against New York (SSNY) on 07/20/2017. Office located the LLC to:CAIT AND THE CRITTERS LLC, 40- in Queens County. SSNY has been designated for 31 48TH STREET, #2R, SUNNYSIDE, NY 11104. service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to: DG SAFETY Purpose: Any lawful activity or purpose.

NY LLC, 6237 ELLWELL CRESCENT, REGO PARK, NY 11374. Purpose: Any lawful activity or purpose.

(20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. Your failure to appear or answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you, unless the Defendant obtained a bankruptcy discharge and such other or further relief as may be just and equitable. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer to the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTOR-

14 AUGUST 31, 2017 • Number 35 VOL. 16 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

NEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. These pleadings are being amended to include the Heirs at Large of RITA XAVIER A/K/A RITA MARGARET XAVIER, deceased. These pleadings are also being amended to include Katia Xavier A/K/A Katia Gelman and Glenn Xavier as possible heir to the estate of RITA XAVIER A/K/A RITA MARGARET XAVIER. These pleadings are also being amended to include United States of America and New York City Department of Taxation and Finance.

QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the mortgaged premises. Dated: March 22, 2017 Mark K. Broyles, Esq. FEIN SUCH & CRANE, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff Office and P.O. Address 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, New York 14614 Telephone No. (585) 232-7400 Block: 10579 Lot: 82 NATURE AND OBJECT OF ACTION The object of the above action is to foreclose a mortgage held by the Plaintiff recorded in the County of QUEENS, State of New York as more particularly described in the Complaint herein.

TO THE DEFENDANT, the plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. To the above named defendants: The foregoing

ARON DEVELOPMENT LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 08/04/2015.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to THE LLC: 14-19 QUINCE AVE, FLUSHING, NEW YORK, 11355 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of Golden Constantine LLCArticles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on July 17, 2017. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 4107 Bowne St Ste 3H, Flushing, NY 11355.

Purpose: Any lawful activity Notice of formation of COCOS VISION FAMILY CENTER, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/22/2017.

Office location, County of Queens. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 83-06 37th Ave., Jackson Heights, NY 11372. Purpose: any lawful act.

PARSONS CONSTRUCTION QUEENS LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/02/17. 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, 58-32 218th Street, Bayside, NY 11364.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

APULLUM CONSTRUCTION COMPANY LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/10/2017. 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, 58-24 80th Street, Middle Village, NY 11379. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of formation of 69-20 30th AVENUE, LLC, Art. Of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 02/01/2017. Office in QUEENSCo. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 69-20 30TH AVENUE, WOODSIDE, NY 11377 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of HON. THOMAS D. RAFFAELE, Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, dated March 31, 2017 and filed along with the supporting papers in the QUEENS County Clerk’s Office. This is an action to foreclose a Mortgage. ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Easterly side of 211th Street distant 335.078 feet Northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the easterly side of 211th Street, with the northerly side of 89th Road; RUNNING THENCE Easterly at right angles to 211th Street, 100 feet; RUNNING THENCE Northerly parallel with 211th Street, 41 feet; RUNNING THENCE Westerly again at right angles to 211th Street 100 feet to the easterly side of 211th Street; and RUNNING THENCE Southerly along the easterly side of 211th Street 41 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING. Mortgaged Premises: 89-07 211ST STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11427 Tax Map/Parcel ID No.: Block: 10579 Lot: 82 of the BOROUGH of QUEENS, NY 11427

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 16 • Number 35 AUGUST 31, 2017 | 15

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