THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | APRIL 4, 2019

VOL. 19 • NUMBER 14 • APRIL 4, 2019

GUILTY

Second Jury Needs Just Five Hours to Convict Chanel Lewis of the Sexual Assault and Murder of Karina Vetrano

See Story on Page 3 Four months after the first trial ended suddenly with a hung jury, Lewis, 22, was found guilty Monday n the savage strangulation death of Vetrano, 30, whose body was discovered by her dad in Spring Creek Park near their Howard Beach home the night of Aug. 2, 2016.

File Photos

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 14 APRIL 4, 2019 | 1

Historic Congestion Pricing Provision Drives $175.5B FY 2020 State Budget

By Michael V. Cusenza While the balanced Fiscal Year 2020 Enacted Budget boasts several progressive provisions that are the product of Democratic control of Albany, it is the historic congestion pricing agreement that clearly is the focal point of the Empire State fiscal agenda.

According to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who announced on Sunday that an agreement had been reached on the $175.5 billion budget, the plan increases education funding, reforms the State’s criminal justice system, and prioritizes investments in infrastructure projects critical to meeting New York’s 21st century needs.

Highlights of the FY 2020 budget: • Reforms and funds the Metropolitan Transportation Authority with an estimated $15 billion to be raised through Central Business District tolling • Makes permanent the 2 percent property tax cap that was implemented in 2012 • Increases school aid by more than $1 billion • Eliminates cash bail for misdemeanors and non-violent offenses, ensuring the right to a speedy trial, and transforming the discovery process • Builds upon Cuomo’s commitment to invest $150 billion in infrastructure projects over the next five years, generating 675,000 jobs • Bans single-use plastic bags • Builds upon voting reform passed within the first 10 weeks of the Legislative Session • Invests an additional $500 million in clean water infrastructure, increasing the State’s investment to $3 billion As Cuomo noted, the FY 2020 spending plan includes MTA reforms and new dedicated funding streams to the MTA. It requires the MTA to develop a reorganization plan by June; modifies MTA Board appointments to align with appointing authority; requires the MTA to undergo an independent forensic audit and efficiency review; calls for a major construction review unit made up of outside experts to review major projects; implements a 20-year capital needs assessment beginning in 2023; increases the competitive procurement threshold to $1 million from $100,000; establishes a 30-day review notice for comptroller contract approval; and requires public reporting on

Photo Courtesy of Mike Groll/Office of the Governor

Governor Andrew Cuomo called the Fiscal Year 2020 Enacted State Budget “the broadest, most sweeping…timely and fiscally responsible” plan in his nine years as executive.

MTA performance metrics.

The MTA funding includes congestion pricing, or a “Central Business District tolling program,” the first program of its kind in the nation. This will include the installation of electronic tolling devices on the perimeter of the Central Business District, defined

as streets south of 60th Street in Manhattan. The program will be established, operated, and maintained by the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority, working closely with the City Department of Transportation for installation.

A six-member Traffic Mobility Review Board will be established

After decades of political haggling, congestion pricing is a provision of the State budget.

2 APRIL 4, 2019 • Number 14 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

by the TBTA to advise on tolls, exemptions, and credits to ultimately be determined by the TBTA based on recommendations from the board. Tolls will be variable and passenger vehicles will only be charged once per day. The implementation day will not be before Dec. 31, 2020. The tolling

Photo Courtesy of Flickr/joiseyshowaa

program will leverage $15 billion, which will be dedicated to MTA capital needs. Additionally, the budget creates a dedicated lockbox to ensure that 100 percent of this revenue goes to the MTA capital budget and prohibits the use of these revenues for non-capital spending.

The FY 2020 Enacted State Budget also features reforms to the criminal justice system, including: • Cash bail will be eliminated for misdemeanors and non-violent felonies, alongside a new requirement that police officers must issue desk appearance tickets to most people charged with misdemeanors and Class E felonies, rather than making a custodial arrest. Together, these reforms will ensure the vast majority—approximately 90 percent—of cases where people are charged, but not yet convicted of a crime, will remain out of jail before their day in court, Cuomo noted.

• To overhaul New York’s antiquated discovery process by which prosecutors could withhold basic evidence until the day the trial begins, legislation included in the FY 2020 Enacted Budget will require that both prosecutors and defendants share all information in their possession well in advance of trial. Defendants will also be allowed the opportunity to review whatever evidence is in the prosecution’s possession prior to pleading guilty to a crime. Prosecutors will be required to provide the defense with discoverable information and materials within 15 days of arraignment.

Additionally, in an effort to cut down on tobacco use by New York’s youth and provide greater regulation to the industry, the budget will introduce a tax on ecigarettes and require e-cigarettes to be sold by licensed retailers only. The plan also includes legislation to ban single-use plastic bags provided to customers and allows counties and cities to opt in to a 5-cent fee on paper bags, with 40 percent of the revenue supporting local programs to buy reusable bags for low and fixed income consumers, and 60 percent of the revenue supporting programs in the State Environmental Protection Fund.

“This is the broadest, most sweeping state budget that we have done, and for the ninthstraight year it was both timely and fiscally responsible,” Cuomo said.

Jury Convicts East New York Man in Murder of Karina Vetrano

By Michael V. Cusenza Four months after the initial proceeding ended suddenly with the declaration of a mistrial, a jury has convicted Chanel Lewis in the vicious strangulation death of Karina Vetrano, who was killed in August 2016 while she jogged in Spring Creek Park near her Howard Beach home, Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan, on behalf of Queens DA Richard Brown, announced on Monday.

The three-week trial culminated in a verdict delivered Monday night after just five hours of deliberations. Lewis, 22, was found guilty of first-degree murder, second-degree intentional murder, second-degree felony murder, and first-degree sexual abuse.

According to trial testimony, Vetrano was jogging alone in Spring Creek Park shortly before 6 p.m. on Aug. 2, 2016. Lewis, angered by a neighbor of his East New York residence playing loud music, also ventured into the federal green space. Lewis encountered Vetrano, 30, jogging toward him and he attacked her.

According to trial testimony, Lewis straddled Vetrano, pressed his knees into her torso, clasped

File Photo

Victim Karina Vetrano and her dad, Phil

his hands around her neck and squeezed. Evidence presented at trial included DNA analysis which showed Lewis’ DNA was present on Vetrano’s neck and cell phone, which was recovered about 80 feet from her body. Lewis’ DNA was included in a mixture of genetic material under Vetrano’s fingernails.

Lewis’ cell phone data also showed that it “pinged” from phone towers in the vicinity of the park around the same time that Vetrano was killed.

Additionally, according to trial testimony, Lewis confessed to police and in a second interview with prosecutors. In those interviews, Lewis stated how angry he was at

Council Passes Commercial Truck Abuse Act

File Photo

Commercial truck parking along North and South Conduit avenues has been an issue for several years for South Ozone Park residents.

By Michael V. Cusenza The City Council on Thursday voted to approve a bill that would create a higher fine for commercial vehicles that are tractor-trailer combinations, tractors, truck trailers or semi-trailers parked overnight on a residential street. The fine for a first violation is currently $250, and for a second violation within a

six-month period it is $500. This measure would create increased fines adjudicated through the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings in the amount of $400 and $800 for the first and second offenses, respectively.

“The drivers of commercial tractor-trailers routinely abuse our City’s parking regulations, and degrade the quality-of-life of communities throughout the five boroughs by parking next to homes and other inappropriate locations, leaving pollution and debris in their wake,” said the bill’s sponsor, Councilman I. Daneek Miller (D-St. Albans). “The current fines imposed on big-rig drivers have not been effective in curbing their abusive practices, which they deem the cost of doing business, but, in actuality, the greatest expense is the health and safety of our communities. Now, we will send a clear message to the bad actors operating within the trucking industry that the price for such flagrant abuses will be steep. I thank Speaker Johnson and my colleagues for supporting the enactment of this measure. The time has come to bring the force of law to bear on those who routinely flout the rules and engage in commercial truck abuse, and this legislation only represents the beginning of that endeavor.”

Last year, with help from concerned readers, The Forum was able to document dangerous conditions in South Ozone Park resulting from trucks and trailers parked for days at a time near busy intersections along both North and South Conduit avenues.

his neighbor and when he saw Vetrano he grabbed her and struck her. In both video recorded confessions, Lewis said he punched Vetrano, broke her teeth, and during the beating his right hand near his knuckle split open and bled.

Records from a doctor’s visit the day after the murder, along with a

photograph and X-ray of the hand injury taken from Lewis’ phone, were both presented as evidence.

Further evidence presented during the trial showed that before he was arrested or even considered to be a suspect, Lewis had done internet searches on his cell phone about the victim, the crime, and legal information on Miranda rights, the Fifth Amendment, double jeopardy, and death sentences.

Vetrano family supporters erupted in elation in the courtroom after the verdict was read. “[Lewis] will pay for his sins in this life but more importantly in the next,” Karina’s dad, Phil, wrote on Tuesday on the Karina Vetrano Memorial Reward Fund GoFundMe page. “He will meet Karina again and this time she won’t be bushwhacked. She will be standing alongside [Angels] Michael and Gabriel and as he passes them on his way down he will be dealt with accordingly. I thank you all for being there for us from the beginning.

Now for the first time in 3 years we are in a new position. I don’t know what to expect but at least we have a monster off the street.”

Sentencing has been set for April 17. Lewis faces up to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

South Queens Celebrates Fest of Colors

Borough Indians marked Holi 2019 with the annual Phagwah Parade along Liberty Avenue, culminating in a celebration featuring the traditional tossing of “abir” – brightly colored powders – at Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park in Richmond Hill.

The Festival of Colors is considered as one of the most revered and celebrated jubilees of India, according to the Society for the Confluence of Festivals in India.

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 14 APRIL 4, 2019 | 3

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The red marker denotes the location of the East Rockaway Inlet.

By Forum Staff A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers contractor has begun moving work vessels, pipe, and other equipment to perform maintenance dredging of East Rockaway Inlet to beneficially use dredged sand to renourish and restore Rockaway Beach between Beach 92nd Street and Beach 103rd Street, the USACE and Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Monday.

The New York District of the USACE recently awarded a contract for $10.7 million to Weeks Marine (Cranford, N.J.) to perform needed maintenance dredging of the East Rockaway Inlet Federal Navigation Channel. The City is contributing $2.7 million to pump the sand two and a half miles farther west along Rockaway Beach in order to restore this section of the beaches which were closed last year because of significant erosion.

Tugboats and towing rafts of submergible pipe have begun arriving in East Rockaway Inlet from Barnegat Inlet, N.J., and installation is ongoing, the administration noted. The submersible pipes are being installed in the ocean from East Rockaway Inlet west to Beach 87th Street, where the pipeline will come out of the ocean and onto the beach at Beach 88th Street, east of the most western groin. This week additional pipe and bulldozers, wheel loaders, and work sheds arrived at the staging area between Beach 109th and 110th streets.

According to USACE, the corps is expected to begin dredging operations next week, pending the severity of spring storms, with a completion date before June 1, which is the beginning of hurricane season. The work will restore and ensure safe

Courtesy of Google

passage for both commercial and recreational vessel traffic through East Rockaway Inlet. USACE is expected to remove approximately, 300,000 cubic-yards of sand from the inlet and place it between Beach 92nd and Beach 103rd streets to replace lost sand due to heavy erosion after last March’s back-to-back nor’easters.

The plan also calls for increased beach berms with 1.6 million cubic-yards of sand for initial placement, the extension of five groins already in place, and the construction of 13 new groins—all designed to help reduce the risk from future coastal storms and provide additional resiliency for area residents.

The USACE New York District also indicated that it is now in the process of receiving the final approvals from corps headquarters for the Rockaway & Jamaica Bay Reevaluation Report. According to officials, this analysis will authorize the construction, at 100 percent federal cost, of new erosioncontrol features (such as “jetties” or groins), additional beach fill and reinforced dunes, as well as flood-risk reduction features on both the Atlantic and bayside shoreline of the Rockaway Peninsula.

“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ equipment is a welcome sight for the community eager to have this key stretch of Rockaway Beach open in time for the season,” said U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica). “Last year’s nor’easters were devastating for Rockaway, not just for beachgoers, but the businesses that make their year’s income during the summer months. By restoring the sand and moving forward with final approvals for erosion controls and flood reductions, we are not just restoring Rockaway, we’re reinforcing it.”

4 APRIL 4, 2019 • Number 14 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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NY Sues Big Pharma Family for Opioid Crisis

Photo Courtesy of Attorney General James’ Office

“The manufacturers and distributors of opioids are to blame for this crisis and it is past time they take responsibility,” AG James said.

By Michael V. Cusenza In 2017, more than 3,200 New Yorkers died from opioid overdose. New York Attorney General Tish James has effectively declared war on the entities that she has said are responsible for those deaths.

James on Thursday filed what her Office has characterized as the nation’s most comprehensive lawsuit against the manufacturers and distributors of prescription painkillers for their roles in the opioid epidemic.

The extensive, 269-page complaint filed in Suffolk County Supreme Court alleges that through years of false and deceptive marketing, and by ignoring their duties to prevent the unlawful diversion of controlled substances, six national prescription opioid manufacturers—Purdue Pharma and its affiliates; members of the Sackler family (owners of Purdue) and trusts they control; Janssen Pharmaceuticals and its affiliates (including its parent company Johnson & Johnson); Mallinckrodt LLC and its affiliates; Endo Health Solutions and its affiliates; Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. and its affiliates; and Allergan Finance, LLC and its affiliates—and four national prescription drug distributors—McKesson Corporation; Cardinal Health Inc.; Amerisource Bergen Drug Corporation; and Rochester Drug Cooperative Inc.—are largely responsible for creating the opioid epidemic that has ravaged the Empire State, causing widespread addiction, overdose deaths, and suffering.

“Since 1999, the scourge of opioid addiction unleashed by the Defendants in this action has taken nearly 400,000 lives,” the complaint reads.

The action filed Thursday alleges that manufacturers implemented a common “playbook” to mislead the public about the safety, efficacy, and risks of their prescrip-

tion opioids. Manufacturers pushed claims that opioids could improve quality of life and cognitive functioning, promoted false statements about the non-addictive nature of these drugs, masked signs of addiction by referring to them as “pseudoaddiction” and encouraged greater opioid use to treat it, and suggested that alternative pain relief methods were riskier than opioids, among other “grossly misleading” claims. They utilized a network of sales representatives (“detailers”) to push these narratives and to target susceptible doctors, flood publications with their “deceptive” advertisements, and offer consumers discount cards and other incentives to entice them to request treatment with their products.

The AG’s lawsuit further asserts that the manufacturers and distributors obtained their licenses to sell opioids and other controlled substances in New York by representing, falsely, that they had complied with state requirements governing the distribution of these products, and that their licenses may be revoked. The complaint also sets forth detailed False Claims Act allegations based on opioid prescriptions that were paid under State health programs due to the defendants’ misconduct, with specific examples of overprescribing by New York providers directly exposed to the manufacturer’s deceptive marketing.

The amended complaint also alleges that opioid manufacturers and distributors have harmed New York financially by causing the state to spend hundreds of millions of dollars on services related to addiction treatment.

“The dangers posed by the Defendants’ enduring impact in warping the perception and availability of opioids will remain embedded in the landscape of the State,” James wrote in the complaint, “until and unless they are compelled to root it out.”

www.orderaplumber.com • (718) 522-0818 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 14 APRIL 4, 2019 | 5

EDITORIAL Bright Idea We don’t tune in to comedian Bill Maher’s long-running HBO show “Real Time” for our weekly political cues. In fact, more often than not, we find ourselves disagreeing with the funnyman.

However, what is indisputable is the program’s uncanny ability, usually via its guests, to allow viewers to consider ideas and perspectives to which they otherwise might not be exposed.

Case in point: Last Friday’s (March 29) show. One of Maher’s five guests should be very familiar to loyal readers of The Forum, because prior to his sudden termination on March 11, 2017, we chronicled the many political corruption cases former U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara brought before the federal bench, including those of disgraced Albany power players Sheldon Silver and Dean Skelos.

The hard-charging, yet soft-spoken Bharara also famously produced guilty verdicts from the 2014-2015 trials of former Queens pols Malcolm Smith and Dan Halloran, and former Queens County GOP Vice Chairman Vince Tabone. The treacherous trio was convicted of bribery charges stemming from a scheme to rig the 2013 New York City mayoral election. Tabone and the once-powerful Democrat Smith played major roles in a failed $200,000 pay-to-play plan in which Smith

tried to buy his way onto the Republican line with the help of Tabone and several other officials, including the former City Councilman Halloran, who was memorialized on audio and video recordings accepting bribes.

All three men remain in the federal prison system.

Back to Bharara and Maher. Bharara (pictured here with South Bend, Indiana Mayor, 2020 Democratic presidential candidate, and fellow “Real Time” guest Pete Buttigieg) is

currently on a book tour, promoting his debut tome, “Doing Justice: A Prosecutor’s Thoughts on Crime, Punishment, and the Rule of Law.” During last Friday’s episode of “Real Time,” Maher brought out Bharara as the last of his five guests.

The talk turned to Buttigieg and the already expansive field of Democratic presidential candidates for the 2020 campaign. Inevitably, Iowa found its way into the collegial confab led by Maher and featuring Bharara,

and panelists: conservative columnist Andrew Sullivan; U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin (DMich.); and conservative pundit S.E. Cupp.

The first votes of the 2020 U.S. presidential cycle are scheduled to take place on Feb. 3 during the (in)famous Iowa Caucuses.

“For a party so proud of being diverse, why have the first primary in Iowa, one of the least-diverse states in the nation?” Maher inquired of the Dems. “It seems to send a different kind of message.”

After a couple of beats, Bharara jumped in and posited: “Why not have the first primary in Queens? It’s the most diverse county in the country.”

We must admit—at first glance, we laughed. But then we considered it: Why not?

For now, leave all of the logistics out of it.

Yes, it would make NYC an even more gridlocked city for a couple of weeks. Yes, it would be a counterterrorism nightmare. And no, we don’t want more people dumped on us.

But just think of all the positives such an annual event would bring to The World’s Borough: an incredibly potent shot in the economic arm, especially for our small businesses; tourism; media exposure.

Just think about it. Not a bad idea.

Thanks, Preet.

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Queens Crew Sold Illegal Guns, Coke, Heroin, and Fentanyl to Undercover Cops: DA

By Forum Staff Five men have been indicted for their roles in a borough crew that allegedly sold approximately two-dozen illegal firearms to buyers, along with cocaine, heroin, fentanyl, and marijuana, Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan, on behalf of Queens DA Richard Brown, announced on Thursday.

Brian Wallace, 25, and Deshawn Taylor, 19, both of Jamaica, have been identified as the main defendants. In total five men are variously charged in an 89-count indictment with criminal sale of a firearm, criminal possession of a firearm, and criminal possession of a controlled substance.

According to the charges, between September 2018 and February 2019 the defendants met with a “buyer” on 20 separate occasions to conduct illegal sales of either drugs, firearms, or both. On Oct. 22, Taylor arranged for a third defendant, Dyshawn Bell, 17, and an unapprehended suspect to meet at an assigned meeting place on Euclid Ave. in Brooklyn, along with a 13-year-old boy. The buyer was an undercover police officer who turned over $800 in cash to the trio, and several hours later, the still-at-large suspect and the 13-year-old boy delivered a silver revolver to the undercover officer.

drugs and firearms for various sums of cash. The arranged meeting spot was usually near a deli on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard in Jamaica.

For instance, according to the charges, on Dec. 15, Wallace met with the “buyer,” who paid $3,500 for three pistols and a large capacity magazine. On Jan. 14, 2019, Wallace sold his contact two pistols, a revolver, and an assault rifle, along with another large-capacity magazine for $6,150.

In total, according to the indictment, undercover cops bought 16 pistols, five revolvers, two rifles, five large-capacity magazine clips, one large-capacity drum magazine, numerous cartridges, and significant quantities of marijuana, cocaine, and heroin from the defendants.

“Gun runners have no place in Queens County. The defendants in this case are accused of profiting from selling illegal firearms and on one occasion defendants had a child Photo Courtesy of NYPD participating in this potentially deadly deal. It is absolutely According to the indictment, undercover cops bought 16 pistols, five deplorable to involve a child in this kind of illegal activity,” revolvers, two rifles, five large-capacity magazine clips, one large-capacity drum magazine, numerous cartridges, and significant quantities of Ryan said. “Unbeknown to the defendants, they were dealing marijuana, cocaine, and heroin from the defendants. with undercover police conducting a long-term investigation.

According to the indictment, there were numerous ar- This crew is alleged to have sold an assortment of guns and ranged buys—for drugs, guns, ammunition, and magazines rifles, high capacity magazines and illicit drugs. Now, they sold. Wallace and Taylor met their buyer and traded illegal face lengthy prison terms.”

Far Rockaway Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison in Stabbing Death of Ex-Girlfriend

By Forum Staff A Far Rockaway man has been sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to fatally stabbing his ex-girlfriend and wounding her mother inside of the victim’s Beach 32nd Street apartment in February 2017, Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan, on behalf of Queens DA Richard Brown, announced on Thursday.

Jonnie Jones, 44, pleaded guilty last month to first-degree manslaughter and first-degree assault. Jones’ 25-year prison sentence will be followed by five years’ post-release supervision, Ryan noted.

Photo Courtesy of Google According to the charges, Jones showed up at the victim’s Jones stabbed Monet Franklin to death inside their Beach 32nd Street residence shortly before 2 a.m. on Feb. 26, 2017, and began ar- apartment.

guing with his ex-girlfriend, Monet Franklin. Jones then went into her kitchen, retrieved a knife, and repeatedly stabbed Franklin, 51, causing severe damage to her left lung, heart, and other internal organs. She died as a result of the injuries.

During the attack, Jones also stabbed Monet’s mother, 77-year-old Maria Franklin, who was in the apartment at the time of the incident. The elder Franklin suffered a severe laceration to her left hand in her attempt to thwart Jones’ assault.

“This crime is a tragic and senseless act of domestic violence,” Ryan added. “The defendant flew into a rage during the course of an argument with his former girlfriend and mercilessly stabbed the victim to death. The woman’s mother was also wounded as she attempted to protect her daughter from the defendant’s attack.”

Ten Dealers Nabbed as Borough Drug Ring Dismantled

By Forum Staff Ten men have been arrested following a year-long investigation of a Southeast Queens-based drug-trafficking ring that sold both cocaine and marijuana between January 2018 and March 2019, Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan, on behalf of Queens DA Richard Brown, recently announced.

Ten men—most of them borough residents—have been hit with various charges, including criminal sale of a controlled substance and criminal possession of a weapon, Ryan noted.

According to charges, a joint task force comprised of members of the City Police Department’s Narcotics Borough Queens South and the Queens District Attorney’s Narcotics Investigations Bureau began investigating a crew of alleged drug dealers in January of 2018. The task force utilized various investigative techniques, including intercepting telephone calls, GPS location monitoring and surveillance. Four men were arrested last month and six others previously arrested as a result of the investigation.

According to the criminal complaint, the defendants in this case did possess and sell narcotics in Queens. Using a courtauthorized eavesdropping warrant, investigators overheard conversations between individuals charged in this case discuss

as March 21, according to the charges, police raided 12 locations—11 in Queens and a single residence in Brooklyn. Police allegedly recovered five illegal firearms, more than 400 grams of cocaine, more than 11 pounds of marijuana and approximately $264,000 in cash.

“A morning wake-up call by the police resulted in the seizure of both drugs and illegal firearms and the arrest of 10 individuals bent on profiting by allegedly selling poison on our neighborhood streets,” Ryan said. “The drug ring is alleged to have operated in Queens County and elsewhere distributing both cocaine and marijuana. Thanks to the hard work of the NYPD’s Narcotics Bureau Queens South and our Office’s Narcotics Investigations Bureau. The defendants now face prison time for their alleged actions.”

Police Commissioner Jim O’Neill added, “In working to reduce crime past already record-lows in New York City, the NYPD is relentless in our pursuit of the relatively small perPhoto Courtesy of DEA centage of the population driving the violence and disorder.

Cops found more than 11 pounds of marijuana, among many other illicit items, We are achieving this because of the full and willing partnerduring the court-authorized raids of 12 locations associated with the case. ship of New Yorkers in every neighborhood and the unrivaled buying drugs, distributing the illicit narcotics and advancing assistance of our law-enforcement partners. I commend the Queens District Attorney and the investigators whose efforts the organization in an effort to make more money.

Executing court-authorized search warrants as recently resulted in these arrests.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 14 APRIL 4, 2019 | 7

8 APRIL 4, 2019 • Number 14 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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City Re-Launches Vision Zero Spring Campaign

The Pharmacist’s Corner Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph BE PREPARED Seasonal Measures of Caution

Photo Courtesy of Edwin Torres/Mayoral Photography Office

“Springtime weather is no excuse for dangerous driving that puts New Yorkers at risk,” Mayor de Blasio said.

By Forum Staff The City Police and Transportation departments have re-launched the Vision Zero “Warm Weather Weekends” spring safety campaign, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Friday.

According to crash data, motorists and motorcyclists drive more dangerously on warmer spring weekends, de Blasio noted.

“As the temperature rises and being outdoors becomes more inviting, the NYPD will continue to ensure that drivers watch for the additional pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists who will be on the road, especially when making left turns,” said NYPD Chief of Transportation Thomas Chan. “Drivers need to be mindful of the harm caused by not yielding to these vulnerable road users. Motorcyclists can also prevent serious injuries by obeying the rules, especially our speed limits.”

According to the administration, officials were originally spurred to action by the events of April 29, 2017: In a year that was the overall safest-ever on New York City streets, that Saturday was the second deadliest day of the entire year. The first warm weekend day at the end of an unusually cool month, April 29 was sunny with a high temperature of 87 degrees. In a number of different serious crashes around New York City that day, many of which involved speeding, 4 New Yorkers lost their lives and 204 were injured.

DOT subsequently conducted a detailed analysis of traffic fatalities and severe injuries from 2007 to 2016, observing the rate of traffic deaths and serious injuries on warmer days in March through June. Comparing crash data to weather records, DOT studied

days in which temperatures were 60 degrees or higher, and uncovered the following clear correlative trends: • The average number of people killed or seriously injured (KSI) in traffic crashes on weekends starts to rise in March and peaks during June. In April, the weekend KSI rate is 28 percent higher than in January/February.

• The danger in the spring is most pronounced for motor vehicle occupants and motorcyclists: on warm weather Saturdays and Sundays in April, the KSI rate for drivers and car occupants is 41 percent higher than the winter weekend rate. For motorcyclists, the KSI danger on weekends rises by 88 percent.

• Data appear to show that higher KSI rates on warmer spring days are limited to Saturdays and Sundays. On weekdays, DOT data show that the average number of KSI annually during April warm weather weekdays is only 4 percent higher than the January/ February winter weekday rate.

“Springtime weather is no excuse for dangerous driving that puts New Yorkers at risk,” de Blasio said.

Hizzoner added that, during “Warm Weather Weekends,” drivers should expect heightened enforcement from NYPD Highway Patrol and local precincts. Officials will remind drivers that they should continue to obey the speed limit, turn slowly, and yield to pedestrians. They will also be calling on drivers to “Look twice for motorcycles,” while reminding motorcyclists—who ride in greater numbers on weekends—to make sure they have the right licensure and registration, avoid risky passing between vehicles, and get practice before riding the open road.

10 APRIL 4, 2019 • Number 14 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Last week we started to give you some tips about the first of emergency type situations that arise with the change of the seasons, bee stings. But there are a host of other incidents that can occur while spending time outside. We suggest that whatever your destination, it’s always advisiable to travel with a First Aid Kit. Below you’ll find our suggestions on the items you should have with you for a variety of reasons. You may very well have some but the rest you can get in your local pharmacy.

Adhesive Bandages For minor cut & scrapes. Cover them up, as they keep out bacteria, and they protect wounds from further damage.

Treat these wounds with care, and you’ll likely avoid infection and speed up the healing process.

Burn Treatments Once you’ve cooled your wound, you might consider applying a burn treatment, to temporarily ease pain and prevent infection. If blisters form, don’t break them!

It’s part of the healing process. .

Liquid Bandages Fingertips, behind knees, between toes – some areas make the proper placement of adhesive bandages nearly impossible. For small, minor, tricky wounds, many people opt for liquid bandage products, which are typically brushed directly

onto cuts. Once dry, liquid bandages shield wounds from dirt and germs. Also see topical antibiotics/antiseptics.

Thermal Relief Products Do your muscles ache? Taking a hot bath or relaxing in a Jacuzzi may be ideal, but it’s not always practical. The same principle of heat therapy for aches and pains is available over the counter in thermal relief products. These treatments can help soothe and loosen muscles and are usually available in cream or patch form.

Topical Antibiotics & Antiseptics Perfect for small wounds like cuts and scrapes, these products prevent infection and may keep adhesive bandages from sticking to the affected area. Some can also moisturize wounds, helping to speed up the healing process. Also consider including a burn treatment in your kit.

Cuts, scrapes and bug bites are an annoying, but inevitable, part of life. Topical anesthetics provide temporary, localized relief of pain from wounds.

While these are the essentials, we certainly advocate for you adding anything else you can think of that might arise as a consequence of certaina ctivities that you and your family enjoy. If you need help assembling your kit don’t hesitate to ask for help at your local pharmacy.

Until next week...

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FAITH TALK The God who raised Jesus Christ from the dead continues to display that resurrection power today by delivering His believing children from crushing circumstances in answer to their prayers.

Every time a child of God conquers a serious illness, endures an unbearable trial, makes a successful comeback from bankruptcy, or rebuilds a destroyed reputation, it is a kind of resurrection.

The miracle of Easter fills those who believe it with the expectation that despair can be turned into victory. Nevertheless, this can only happen when the beleaguered person lets go of the discouragement that comes from depending upon so limited a resource as himself and turns to the God who has no limitations.

Harry (not his real name), one of my brothers in Christ, was facing a maximum sentence of 59 years in prison for a crime that he did not commit when, in desperation, he called me for prayer. I asked a few of our members to pray along with me that God would silence every lying tongue that would rise against Harry at the trial.

What happened in that courtroom was a miracle. When Harry’s chief accuser took the witness stand, she gave a testimony so filled with contradictions and inconsistencies that the judge threw the case out of court. Harry walked out a free man, his doubt and despair replaced by radical confidence in his Lord.

What else would you expect for someone who believes that Jesus lives?

Pastor Stephen Roser Howard Beach Assembly of God

FEAST Your Eyes on Culinary Training Initiative as it Expands across Borough

By Michael V. Cusenza A successful culinary pre-accelerator that offers training and mentorship for entrepreneurs seeking to start or grow their food businesses in Jamaica is set to double the number of classes to 12 from 6, and expand to locations in northern, southern and western Queens, while maintaining a presence at the Central Library branch in Jamaica, the City Economic Development Corporation and Queens Library recently announced.

Starting this summer, the Food Entrepreneurship and Services Training Space will increase its program capacity to 250 students from 100 in order to address the high need for similar resources throughout the city. The expansion follows a spike in the number of interested applicants, roughly 60 percent of which were residents from beyond the greater Jamaica area. FEASTS will also introduce training in English as Second or Foreign Language at the forthcoming Northern Queens location.

In addition, the program will add new employees, including a full-time entrepreneurship counselor, a part-time ESOL teacher, and a part-time data analyst to track participant outcomes, City officials noted.

“Jamaica FEASTS has delivered amazing results for aspiring entrepreneurs who want

Courtesy of Althea’s Tropical Delights

“During the Jamaica FEASTS 12-week intensive program, and under the guidance of the Jamaica FEASTS mentors, my dream became a reality,” said success story Althea Magloire, owner and operator of Althea’s Tropical Delights.

to start a food business and entrepreneurs who already have started one,” said Queens Library President and CEO Dennis Walcott.

“With this expansion to other communities in Queens, more of our customers will have the opportunity to meet their ambition to thrive in one of New York City’s most dynamic sectors. We are deeply grateful to the New York City Economic Development Corporation President and CEO James Patchett and Queens Borough President Melinda Katz for their vision, investment and support of our mission to transform people’s lives and build strong communities.”

Jamaica FEASTS 1.0 was designed to train

the next generation of food business entrepreneurs by providing training and workspace to develop new food and catering businesses in Jamaica. The program successfully graduated 100 participants, 75 percent of whom were women and 70 percent of whom were minority entrepreneurs, according to program officials. Graduates from the program have received Vendy Awards and Good Food Awards, have been showcased at the NYC Wine and Food Festival, and have participated at major events including the Brooklyn Army Terminal Centennial Celebration and the Queens Night Market.

“Jamaica FEASTS has played a pivotal

role in providing training and business development support to the next generation of culinary entrepreneurs in Queens,” Patchett said. “This program’s success is evidenced by the number of students who have grown their businesses, and in turn are helping to create new jobs and strengthen local economies.

We look forward to continuing our partnership with Queens Library to expand this vital program that will support talented entrepreneurs throughout different neighborhoods in Queens.”

An EDC spokeswoman assured The Forum this week that the agency plans to announce the new FEASTS borough locations at a later date this spring.

According to NYCEDC and Queens Library, since FEASTS’ inception in 2016, more than 100 students have graduated and nearly 50 percent have launched successful food businesses.

“I am so proud to be a graduate of the Jamaica FEASTS Program,” said Althea Magloire, owner and operator of Althea’s Tropical Delights. “Upon being accepted into the program all I had was a dream of one day turning my passion into a business. During the Jamaica FEASTS 12-week intensive program, and under the guidance of the Jamaica FEASTS mentors, my dream became a reality.”

Bill Extends Protection of Jamaica Bay

By Forum Staff State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) recently introduced a bill that would permanently extend protection of Jamaica Bay waters.

In 2016, a bill was chaptered into law addressing the longstanding problem of using sub-quality dredging material to fill in borrow pits, but it will expire on June 30, 2022.

Prior to 2016, dredging materials used to fill in borrow pits in Jamaica Bay posed a threat to the local community and ecosystem, Addabbo noted. The senator’s measure would permanently extend the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ responsibility for regulating the types of materials used in

the dredging process and provide Jamaica Bay the same protections as federal waters.

“The impact [Superstorm] Sandy had on our community serves as a stark reminder of the importance in taking care of our environment,” Addabbo added. “We have already implemented eco-friendly programs like switching to paper straws, using reusable bags and water bottles to lessen our impact on the environment. Our local economy depends a great deal on Jamaica Bay so it is essential we do all we can to protect it for future generations.”

Photo Courtesy of Natural Resources Defense Council, Inc. The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on The senator’s measure would permanently extend the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ responsibility for regulating the types of materials used in the dredging Environmental Conservation, according to Addabbo’s ofprocess and provide Jamaica Bay the same protections as federal waters. fice.

Senate Approves Homeless Vets Study

By Forum Staff The State Senate recently passed a bill that requires the State Division of Veterans’ Affairs to conduct a study to determine how many of the people experiencing homelessness in New York are veterans and identify issues specific to veteran women and single parents, according to one of the measure’s co-sponsors, Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach).

The State Comptroller’s Office reported in 2017 that from 2011 to 2016, while New York’s total homeless population grew by 36 percent, the number of homeless veterans in the state dropped by 78 percent. Female veterans comprise the fastest growing segment of the homeless veteran population. This study may help identify veteran “We must guarantee housing issues are eliminated for our dedicated veterans,” Sen. Addabbo said.

File Photo

homelessness issues specific to women and single parents, the senator said.

“We must guarantee housing issues are eliminated for our dedicated veterans. When military service is complete, we should not only welcome our veterans back, but work to ensure that everyone has a safe, affordable residence to call home,” added Addabbo, a member of the Senate Committee for Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs. “Our military, past and present, deserve every opportunity to access affordable housing, employment, proper nutrition, health care, substance abuse care and aftercare, mental health counseling, and personal development.”

The bill, according to Addabbo, has been referred to the Assembly Ways and Means Committee.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 14 APRIL 4, 2019 | 11

LIC Man Charged in 3,201-Count Indictment for Promoting Child Sex Abuse

By Forum Staff A Long Island City man has been indicted for allegedly downloading, saving, and then sharing thousands of photos and videos of children as young as 4 years old being sexually abused by adults, Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan, on behalf of Queens DA Richard Brown, announced on Thursday.

Dodelyn Vertilus, 40, was arraigned last week on a 3,201-count indictment. He is charged with 983 counts of promoting a sexual performance by a child as a sexually motivated felony and 2,218 counts of possessing a sexual performance by a child. Bail was set at $50,000 cash; and Vertilus was ordered to return to court on June 27.

According to the charges, on July 18, 2017, an investigator with the New York State Police was utilizing law enforcement software designed to search and identify individuals,

Courtesy of National Center for Missing and Exploited Children

According to Ryan, the material in Vertilus’ collection will be sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Child Victim Identification Program to ascertain which of the children depicted in the photos and videos have been identified and saved by law enforcement.

via their Internet Protocol address, who are offering to distribute child sexual abuse material. The software identified the IP address that was continuously sharing files on the peer to peer network. The IP address was identified

as belonging to the internet account at Vertilus’ residence. The investigator was able to make a direct connection to the computer at that IP address on seventeen different occasions between July 18 and Sept. 13, 2017, and

downloaded a total of 983 images and videos, all of which depicted child sexual abuse. The files had titles such as “Gold 3yo.” The files depicted children as young as 3 years old being sexually abused by adult men or being forced to pose in a lewd manner.

According to the charges, a court-authorized search warrant was executed at Vertilus’ 29th Street residence on Oct. 6, 2017, and numerous electronic devices were recovered.

Forensic analysis of the recovered devices revealed that Vertilus allegedly had numerous images on his laptop, as well as images and videos on his cell phone and seven thumb drives. The forensic analysis identified a total of 2,218 files which all contained child sexual abuse material. Most of the material contained in Vertilus’ collection depicted children under 12 years old being sexually abused by adults.

Furthermore, according to the charges, Vertilus said that “I have child pornography

East Elmhurst Woman Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Near-Fatal Sword Attack on Boyfriend

By Forum Staff An East Elmhurst woman has been sentenced to three years in prison after a jury found the defendant guilty of assault in the near fatal slashing of her boyfriend in June of 2016, Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan, on behalf of Queens DA Richard Brown, recently announced.

A jury convicted Karla Barba, 40, of seconddegree assault and two counts of endangering the welfare of a child following a nearly threeweek trial. Barba, ex-girlfriend of hot-headed former Queens pol Hiram Monserrate, was sentenced last week to three years in prison to be followed by two years’ post-release supervision.

According to trial testimony, on June 8,

The attack took place in Larrea’s 31st Avenue apartment.

2016, Barba and her live-in boyfriend, Franklin Larrea, were arguing in the bedroom of Larrea’s 12-year-old son. Larrea pulled Barba from

sword was inside the blade’s sheath, but came off as the defendant aimed for Larrea again— hitting him a second and third time. The blade of the samurai sliced through the man’s forearm and his wrist.

According to trial testimony, cuts from the blade were so deep the victim lost a significant amount of blood. Larrea was taken to a nearby hospital and given an emergency blood transfusion that saved his life.

“This was a brutal attack. The scene had blood puddles on the floor and crimson red Photo Courtesy of Google streaks on the walls,” Ryan noted. “This could have ended more tragically, but the victim the boy’s room. Barba retaliated by grabbing a survived and the defendant has been ordered samurai sword that was within reach and struck to prison for a significant period of time. The the 40-year-old victim in the head with it. The Court’s sentence is more than appropriate.”

Teen Suspect in Summer 2018 Murder Nabbed for Fare Evasion

By Forum Staff An 18-year-old man has been charged with murder after a transit officer stopped him for allegedly going through a subway turnstile with another individual early Thursday morning. The Long Island City resident was being sought in connection with the shooting death of a 29-yearold man last summer, Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan, on behalf of Queens DA Richard Brown, announced on Friday.

Shahid Burton, who lives in the Queensbridge Houses, has been arraigned on a complaint charging him with second-degree murder and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Burton was remanded and ordered to return to court on April 11.

According to the charges, at approximately 12:50 a.m., Thursday, a transit police officer

Continuing, according to the charges, Burton was one of two people being sought in the death of Jelan Moreira. The defendant is alleged to have followed the 29-year-old victim as he walked through the courtyard of the Ravenswood Houses in LIC around 5:20 a.m. on Aug. 26. Video surveillance allegedly shows Burton and an unidentified cohort approach Moreira from behind. The victim was shot multiple times in the torso and chest and succumbed to the injuries.

“The defendant was a suspect in an ongoing homicide investigation. However, an Photo Courtesy of NYPD alleged early morning fare evasion attempt at Burton was arrested after a transit police officer allegedly spotted him double up with another individual and go the Sutphin Boulevard-Archer Avenue subway through the turnstile at the Sutphin Boulevard-Archer Avenue station without paying the subway fare. station has resulted in the arrest of this indispotted Burton allegedly double up with an- stopped by the officer, who learned the teen vidual wanted for murder,” Ryan noted.

If convicted, Burton faces up to 25 years to other individual and go through the turnstile was wanted in connection to a homicide that life in prison. without paying the subway fare. Burton was occurred last summer.

12 APRIL 4, 2019 • Number 14 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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1-800-404-9776 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 19• Number 14 APRIL 4, 2019 | 13

Legal Notices 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.

SOLACE FILMS LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 3/18/19. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to the Registered Agent: Steven Levine 2307 30th Drive 3B Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of K&G ENG LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/19/19. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 9 Jodi Court, Glen Cove, NY 11542.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

MARK MEDICAL CARE, QUEENS PLLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/16/2017. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: MARK MEDICAL CARE, QUEENS LLC, 142 MINEOLA AVENUE, ROSLYN HEIGHTS, NY 11577. Purpose: Medicine.

Discovery Genetics, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 2/27/19. 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, 83-20 98th Street, #5L Woodhaven, NY 11421. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

JYS PROPERTY LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/15/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: YANHONG WANG, 4656 160TH STREET, FLUSHING, NY 11358. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

VANILLA BROWS LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/07/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: ARIEL IBANEZ, 16447 96th STREET, HOWARD BEACH, NY 11414. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

month and year of my birth are January 2001. The place of my birth is INDIA. CHAMBERS DEVELOPMENT LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/07/2019. Office loc: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: JONATHAN HUANG, 13423 57TH RD, FLUSHING, NY 11355. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

TANPAK RENTALS 543 LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/01/2002.

Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: TANPAK RENTALS 543 LLC 147-16 249th Street, Rosedale, NY 11422. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

88-15 HOLLIS COURT LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/15/2019.

Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 211-36 Hillside Avenue, Queens Village, NY 11427. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

HOMELY REALTY LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/13/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: HOMELY REALTY LLC, 13109 11th Avenue, 2nd Fl., College Point, NY 11356. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

22-50 33 STREET 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: 22-50 33 STREET LLC, 24-20 24th Ave, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

MUZZLES NYC LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/06/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: SEBASTIAN JERG, 3115 34TH ST APT 3B ASTORIA, NY 11106. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of I’M ERNIE AND HE’S GREGG, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/21/19. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 45-39 Davis St., Long Island City, NY 11101. 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.

Khanekura LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/25/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: DEEPAK K SUBBA 5109 63RD STREET WOODSIDE, NY 11377. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

JAYEM 121 REALTY LLC Art. Of Org. Filed Sec. of State of NY 2/22/2019. Off. Loc. : Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY to mail copy of process to The LLC, c/o Meyer Jeger, Esq., P.O. Box 670637, Flushing, NY 11367. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

NOTICE OF FORMATION of 103-19 MERRICK LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/23/2018.

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 111 EAST JERICHO TPKE, 2ND FLOOR, MINEOLA, NY 11501. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

UNLCKD ESSNTLS Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 2/25/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: UNLCKD ESSNTLS LLC, 25-27 36TH AVE. LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11106. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

REEL FEEL LLC Art. of Org. filed Sec. of State of NY on 03/26/2018. Off. loc.: Queens Co. Manuel Simeon designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY to mail copy of process to: REEL FEEL LLC, 6338 75TH PL., MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY 11379. Purpose: Any Lawful act or activity.

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Qualia Events LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/01/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 4628 Vernon Boulevard Suite 305 Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

STAR TOWER CONDO BOARD LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 2/4/19. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 136-33 37th Ave, #8B, Flushing, NY 11354. General Purposes.

DUNGEONEERS LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/11/2019. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: DUNGEONEERS LLC, 5111 61ST STREET, WOODSIDE, NY 11377.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

QB STRATEGY, LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/18/2018. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: JON TERENZETTI, 27-03 42 ROAD SUITE 16E, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

14 APRIL 4, 2019 • Number 14 VOL. 19 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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