THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | DECEMBER 8, 2016

VOL. 15 • NUMBER 49 • DECEMBER 8, 2016

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

South & West

ROAD RAGE

Binghamton University Hit-Run Horror Claims Life of 20-Year-old Borough Resident —

but Victim’s Distraught Family Believes she was Murdered

Police said the body of Middle Village native Stefani Lineva (inset) was found early Saturday morning on the median of State Route 434 near Pennsylvania Avenue. According to investigators, the nationally ranked BU tennis star suffered injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle; however Lineva’s parents believe she was murdered elsewhere and her body dumped on the upstate thoroughfare.

See Story on Page 5 Photos Courtesy of SUNY-Binghamton

Page 3

Councilman Preps for his Close-Up

Page 7

Man Stabs Wife to Death in Richmond Hill

Pages 10

Santa Cause: Little North Pole Raises Funds for JDRF

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 15 • Number 49 DECEMBER 8, 2016| 1

ShopRite of Gateway Center

7 to 10-oz. pkg., Any Variety (Excluding Natural Slices, Cuts and 6 to 8-oz., Cheese Sticks)

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1

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6

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2 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

12-11-56

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2

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49

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Television Quest: Ulrich Reality Show in the Works

By Michael V. Cusenza The (as yet untitled) revolution has earned permission from the City Conflicts of Interest Board to be televised.

The panel, an independent agency tasked with preventing ethics questions from becoming ethics problems for NYC public servants, recently gave the green light to City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) to participate in a reality show set to document the Republican’s personal and professional lives as he considers running for mayor next fall, according to a report in Sunday’s New York Times.

On Monday, Ulrich, 31, sent a link to the Times piece in an email blast to press, constituents, and supporters.

“Dear Friends, I want to share this article with you from today’s New York Times which details a potential documentary series that will follow me as I fight for our community in City Hall and throughout the borough of Queens. This will not affect my day-to-day work, and I will not be paid or compensated in any way for participating.

Photo Courtesy of William Alatriste for the New York City Council

Cameras would document Councilman Ulrich’s (c., with daughter, Lily) personal and public-service lives as he mulls a run to unseat Mayor Bill de Blasio (l.) in 2017.

“I agreed to this project so viewers across the country can have an inside look at local politics and public service. I encourage you to read the article here. If you have any questions about the article or about the series, please do not hesitate to contact me.”

As described to the COIB, the production company will tail Ulrich from his Lindenwood home – yes, wife Yadira and 4-year-old

daughter Lily will be feature players – to City Hall and all places in-between for a couple of weeks in order to produce a teaser package of clips that the producers would then use to shop the show to television networks.

The affable and popular Ulrich has been mulling a 2017 bid to boot Mayor Bill de Blasio from Gracie Mansion since at least February. Earlier this year, the New York Post

indicated that Ulrich, who chairs the Council Veterans Committee, was being courted by top New York Republicans to challenge Hizzoner.

Asked for reaction to the Post report, an Ulrich spokesperson told The Forum in February, “Like so many New Yorkers, Councilman Ulrich is concerned about the future of our city. While he appreciates the encouragement of friends and supporters alike, he is not a declared candidate for Mayor at this time.

His primary focus remains serving the needs of his constituents and fighting for New York City’s large and diverse Veterans community.”

That was months ago, well before the mayor found himself in the throes of a massive homeless crisis that has had a tremendous impact on his approval rating—and shows no sign of letting up.

Since then, Ulrich has been publically critical of de Blasio, filed paperwork with the City Board of Elections to set up “Ulrich 2017,” an unspecified exploratory committee, and held three fundraisers.

Stay tuned.

Senator Cites Report in Renewed Call for City to Utilize Vacant Properties for Homeless Crisis

By Michael V. Cusenza

Approximately 20 percent of the properties now owned or leased by a City agency are classified as having “no current use,” according to a recent study conducted by the Municipal Art Society of New York and cited by State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) as he renewed his call to the administration to make use of the empty space to combat New York’s increasing homeless problem.

Addabbo also noted that the report, which was first published in the real estate news magazine The Real Deal, found that most of the unused properties – more than 1,100 – are located in Queens.

“These pieces of land that are owned or leased by the City of New York are costing valuable taxpayer dollars to keep and maintain, made worse by the fact that they are sitting unused in a time of serious need,” said Addabbo. “While Mayor de Blasio is busy spending $1.7 billion in additional taxpayer money in his unsuccessful attempt to fight homelessness, further precious resources are being wasted to hold onto these properties that could be used to fight this same crisis.”

In October, several borough elected officials, including Addabbo, and civic

this crisis. These facilities are not equipped to serve as a primary residence, offering minimal, limited amenities and only further delaying the transition into permanent housing. I have publically stated several times now that Mayor de Blasio needs to take advantage of vacant properties across the city to construct more affordable housing or even build quick, temporary modular apartments that are more appropriate than simply warehousing people into hotel rooms for years at a time. With this news confirming the thousands of properties that are already under city control but not being used, there is no excuse to let them sit vacant while more than 60,000 people need our help. It is time for this administration to stop ignoring the fact that there are Photo Courtesy of Google more viable alternatives than staying on a Queens, according to the report, is home to the largest amount of unused city properties: 1,143. failed course.”

According to The Real Deal, a mayoral leaders spearheaded a spirited rally replete the senator said. spokeswoman indicated that the de Blasio with chants and signs on the steps of City “As more inappropriate, prison-like administration is “focused on developing Hall to denounce what one city pol called accommodations for homeless individual affordable housing, building and modthe mayor’s “hopeless homeless policies.” continue to pop up throughout the five ernizing our parks, libraries and schools During the press conference, Addabbo boroughs, more than 8,500 acres of city — and doing so in a manner that ensures detailed alternative plans of action – inowned or leased land has been sitting cluding utilizing vacant land across the five vacant, being wasted when it could instead community engagement… to suggest that boroughs – that the City could employ not be helping us solve this increasingly serious there are acres and acres of underutilized only to provide more adequate shelter for problem,” Addabbo added. “By this point, properties that are being ignored by the those in need, but to keep New Yorkers we have all seen that converting hotels into City is simply untrue.” from losing their homes in the first place, living space is not an adequate solution to

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 15 • Number 49 DECEMBER 8, 2016| 3

Cuomo Signs Law to Increase Protection Measures for Jamaica Bay

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Sen. Addabbo sponsored the bill in the Senate, while former Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder sponsored it in the Assembly.

By Michael V. Cusenza State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (DHoward Beach) recently praised Gov. Andrew Cuomo for signing into law a bill sponsored by Addabbo in the Senate and former Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder in the Assembly that would increase protection measures for Jamaica Bay. The Jamaica Bay Borrow Pit Bill creates a five-year extension to legislation prohibiting the dumping of toxic materials into the borrow pits – areas of deeper water depths in the bay created by projects that excavated, or “borrowed,” seabed sediments for use in other areas – under the bay. This extends through 2022 language in state Environmental Conservation Law requiring permits for filling borrow pits with materials generated by dredging projects in area waterways. Under this restriction, the sediments must also meet the State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Class A criteria for chemical contamination, the state’s highest sediment classification.

“Protected green space and clean natural bodies of water are hard to come by in extremely urbanized areas such as New York City, and it is now more important than ever that we do everything we can to protect the environment we have,” said Addabbo, a member of the Senate Environmental Committee. “Jamaica Bay is not only one of the largest bodies of water in our borough, but it is home to dozens of different animal species in the wildlife refuge. This bill, which Governor Cuomo has now signed into law, will go a long way toward preserving the land these creatures call home and making sure Jamaica Bay stays clean and free

from contamination for years to come.

I thank the Governor for his continued dedication to making New York State a leader as we continue our journey toward a greener, more environmentallyfriendly state.”

Dan Mundy, president of the Broad Channel Civic Association and Jamaica Bay Ecowatchers, praised the work of Addabbo and Goldfeder.

“The Jamaica Bay Ecowatchers are extremely pleased to learn that Governor Cuomo has signed the Jamaica Bay Borrow Pit Bill, which will ensure the bay is protected from plans to fill its deeper portions with contaminated fill,” Mundy said. “Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder and Senator Joe Addabbo championed this effort and pushed hard to ensure its passage. The bill closes a loophole that allowed for dredge material to be placed in the waters of the bay that would not be approved for open ocean placement due to its contaminated nature. It is fitting that this will be the final legislative effort of Assemblyman Goldfeder, who was a true champion of Jamaica Bay and the efforts to see it protected and restored for future generations. We are extremely pleased to see his replacement, Assemblywoman-elect Stacey Pheffer Amato, immediately jump into this fight, calling in to Albany in the last few weeks and urging the Governor to sign this bill and make it law. Going forward with great supporters like Senator Addabbo and Assemblywoman Pheffer, we feel extremely confident that Jamaica Bay will continue to see great things happening.”

The law is set to take effect immediately, with an expiration date of June 30, 2022.

4 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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Middle Village Family Mourns Binghamton U Student Killed in Apparent Hit and Run

By Michael V. Cusenza A Binghamton University student from Middle Village was killed last weekend in an apparent hit-and-run accident near the SUNY school’s campus upstate, but the woman’s family has indicated that they are convinced that she was murdered.

The body of junior Stefani Lineva, 20, was discovered early Saturday morning on a concrete median on Route 434, the Vestal Parkway, near the intersection of South Washington Street and the Pennsylvania Avenue ramp. Lineva suffered injuries consistent with being struck by an automobile, according to Binghamton Police.

“The Binghamton University community suffered a tragic loss this weekend when Stefani died as the result of a hit-and-run accident,” said school President Harvey Stenger.

Lineva, a star tennis player who graduated from Forest Hills High School and recently transferred to BU from Adelphi University, was found without her ID or cell phone, according to her mother, Daniela Atanassova-Lineva. Stefani was walking home from her boyfriend’s apartment at the time of her demise.

“I think it’s a homicide, definitely a homicide,” she added in an interview with News 4 New York.

However, cops are working the investi-

Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger on Monday announced a $10,000 reward is being offered by the school and the city of Binghamton to anyone who has information that leads to the successful closure of the hit-and-run accident.

Photos Courtesy of Jonathan Cohen/Binghamton University; and the Northeast 10 Conference

Lineva was a nationally ranked tennis star.

gation as a hit and run, for several reasons, according to News 12 Binghamton, including: • Two medical examinations by certified forensic pathologists, one being independent of the investigation, detailing Lineva’s injuries as consistent with being struck by a vehicle.

• Eyewitness accounts which place Lineva at the approximate accident scene, alone, near the time of the accident.

• Surveillance video evidence placing Lineva, walking alone, in the area near the accident location around the time it oc-

curred.

As of Wednesday evening, the reward for information that leads to the successful closure of the hit-and-run accident had reached $30,000.

“Somebody must have seen something,” Stenger said. “And that’s why you offer a reward. Somebody knows something. The investigators are turning over every single stone at the scene and we’ll work closely with the Binghamton Police Department to help them with any information they need.

We hope someone in the community has some information that can lead to the successful conclusion of this case.”

The university has indicated that it is providing support to the Lineva family, and

counseling and services to her teammates and others.

“Stefani was an exceptional teammate who had personal relationships with so many people on our team and across the university,” said head tennis coach Libby McGovern. “She loved being at practice with her friends and was always the first one to volunteer when we performed community service. She had very high aspirations of making a difference in the world and doing great things for other people. We are heartbroken.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Binghamton Police Detective Bureau at (607) 772-7080.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 15 • Number 49 DECEMBER 8, 2016| 5

Woodhaven Mom Gets Jail, Probation for Stealing $65K+ from Daughter’s Malpractice Settlement A 31-year-old woman from Woodhaven, has been sentenced to jail and probation after pleading guilty to grand larceny for stealing more than $65,000 from her pre-teen daughter’s malpractice lawsuit settlement.

Megan Mele, 31, pleaded guilty in September 2016, to second-degree grand larceny.

Mele admittedly used the pilfered cash for a liposuction/tummy tuck procedure and other personal uses.

District Attorney Brown said, “Instead of safeguarding her daughter’s malpractice award - money set aside for the disabled youngster’s future - the defendant admittedly dipped into the account to finance a Disneyland trip, cosmetic surgery, online shopping and other splurges.”

Last week, Acting Supreme Court Justice Dorothy Chin-Brandt sentenced Mele to six months’ incarceration to be followed by five years’ probation.

According to the charges, in January 2007, a settlement was reached in a medical malpractice lawsuit on behalf of Megan Mele’s daughter, who was born in November 2004.

The baby was diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury to her right arm. As a result of the injury, the child has extremely limited - if any - function from her right shoulder down to her hand. The agreed settlement was structured for the girl to receive payments starting after her 18 birthday in 2022.

As part of the settlement, an account to benefit the little girl containing more

than $50,000 was established at Cross County Federal Savings Bank in March 2007. According to the criminal charges, the defendant was required to submit requests to the court before making any withdrawals from the bank account.

In March of 2015, the defendant petitioned the judge in charge of the case to approve a withdrawal of $47,000 but the judge denied her request. Then, on March

27, the defendant submitted a forged court order to withdraw the funds, purportedly for the child to undergo surgery at a San Diego children’s hospital.

A bank check was issued in Mele’s name on that date for $47,000. An investigation revealed no record of the girl being a patient at the San Diego hospital.

What the investigation did reveal however was an expenditure for a trip to Disneyland in California.

Court records also show that Mele submitted forged court orders to the bank requesting a total of $19,500 on three addition occasions between June and August 2015. On each occasion, bank checks were issued in the defendant’s name.

On September 22, 2015, Mele used another forged court order to request the remaining funds ($633.74) in the account but the bank denied her request.

In addition to the Disneyland vacation, Mele splurged on a liposuction procedure for a tummy tuck, airline tickets, Amazon.com purchases and purchases at local retail stores.

Photo Courtesy of Insurance Journal

Grand Jury Indicts Jackson Heights Woman on Felony Animal Cruelty Charges

By Forum Staff A Queens grand jury has indicted a Jackson Heights, Queens, woman on felony aggravated cruelty to animals charges and numerous other crimes in relation to 67 animals housed in her home.

Veterinary professionals that examined the cats and dogs allegedly found extreme health problems from malnutrition to respiratory infections and many other painful conditions. At least one dog was in such failing health she had to be euthanized.

“The defendant is accused of permitting her numerous pets to live in deplorable conditions. The home’s floor and furnishings were allegedly covered in feces, fur and urine. Rescue workers stepping inside the dwelling, were overwhelmed bythe smell of ammonia and had to wear respirators to breathe, as well as protective clothing.

No person or animal should live in such wretched conditions," District AttorneyBrown said.

The defendant is identified as Elizabeth Grant, of 25-44 82 nd Street in the Jackson Heights section. Grant was arraigned before Queens Supreme Court Justice Barry Kron on a 138-count indictment charging her with four counts of aggravated cruelty to animals, 66 counts of overdriving, torturing or injuring an animal and 66 counts of failure to provide proper food and drink to an impounded animal.

missing, crusted eyes and one cat did not appear to be able to walk.

According to the complaint, a courtauthorized search warrant was issued that same day and when the officer returned to the defendant’s home with members of the ASPCA, 55 cats, 12 dogs and two turtles were rescued.

A licensed veterinarian and supervisor of the ASPCA’s Forensic Sciences unit examined and/or supervised the examination of the 67 cats and dogs and determined that many had dental diseases, ear mites, respiratory infections, as well as pain and discomfort from a host of other ailments.

A dog by the name of Dorothy was allegedly vomiting and had diarrhea related to chronic kidney and liver disease. A large part of her coat was matted with feces and Photo Courtesy of Google she had severe dental disease and a chronic illness associated with her digestive system.

Grant allegedly hoarded and neglected 67 dogs and cats in her 82nd Street home.

Due to Dorothy’s extremely poor health, a If convicted, the 48-year-old faces up to residence was filthy. The officer returned decision was made to euthanize her. two years on each of the four felony counts. to the home on January 28, 2016, with Grant was ordered back to court on Janu- members of the ASPCA, at which time the ary 10, 2017. defendant’s elderly mother answered the According to the charges, a crime pre- door.

REMEMBER vention officer went to the defendant’s At that time the officer allegedly nohome on January 6, 2016, to visit Grant’s ticed excessive amounts of feces, fur and if YOU see something mother, an elderly crime victim. Although the smell of urine throughout the main and YOU say something there was no answer to the officer’s knock floor, along with numerous flies. The home at the door, the door was open and the of- was strewn with clutter and trash and the YOU'RE doing something ficer allegedly observed numerous animals home’s ceiling was peeling and rotting. inside the home and that the interior of the Many of the animals had patches of fur

6 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Man Stabs Wife to Death on Richmond Hill Sidewalk

Photo Courtesy of Google

After an argument, Rampersaud allegedly slashed and stabbed Baldeo near the intersection of 103rd Avenue and 124th Street.

By Forum Staff A 50-year-old Guyana national has been charged with murder in the multiple stabbing death of his common law wife on the streets of Ozone Park, just after midnight Monday.

“This was an especially violent crime in which the defendant is accused of viciously taking the life of the woman he purportedly loved by repeatedly stabbing her following a heated verbal argument. If convicted, her brutal and senseless death merits serious punishment.”

The defendant, identified as Prem Rampersaud, is temporarily residing with a friend on 116th Drive in Jamaica.

Rampersaud is being held pending arraignment in Queens Criminal Court on charges of second-degree murder and

fourth degree criminal possession of a weapon.

According to the charges, Rampersaud met the victim, Rajwantie Baldeo, 46, as she finished work at an Ozone Park restaurant at approximately twelve midnight on December 5, 2016.

As they neared the corner of 124th Street and 103rd Avenue they were verbally arguing and Rampersaud stabbed Ms. Baldeo multiple times about the body, fatally wounding her.

Ms. Baldeo was transported to a local Queens hospital where she was pronounced dead. Ms. Baldeo was transported to a local Queens hospital whereshe was pronounced dead.

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

Maspeth, NYPD Honor Detective Killed in Line of Duty 45 Years Ago

Part of 62nd Street in Maspeth is now “Det. Joseph A. Picciano Way.”

By Forum Staff The Maspeth community and the NYPD family joined the Picciano family on Saturday in honoring the memory of Det. Joseph Picciano at a street renaming ceremony.

Picciano, a 10-year veteran of the force, made the ultimate sacrifice 45 years ago in the 41st Precinct stationhouse in the Bronx when he was gunned down by a prisoner.

He was 33.

On Feb. 15, 1971, Det. Picciano and other officers from the 41 apprehended a man wanted in connection with the ab-

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

duction of a 13-year-old boy. As the suspect was being fingerprinted, he began to struggle with Picciano. During the confrontation, Picciano’s service handgun fell to the ground. The suspect was able to gain control of the weapon and fire two shots, killing the detective. The remaining officers returned fire, killing the suspect.

Picciano was survived by his wife and three children. All attended Saturday’s ceremony renaming a portion of 62nd Drive. The renaming was sponsored in the City Council by Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Glendale).

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Nana’s 161-09 Cross Bay Blvd Howard Beach NY 11414 718.309.0316 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 15 • Number 49 DECEMBER 8, 2016| 7

COP OUT Dear Editor,

ALTERNATIVE TRACK Dear Editor,

So, former South Carolina police officer Michael Slager "feared for his life". That's why he shot Walter Scott 5 times, IN THE BACK! As Scott was running away! It's a good thing Slager doesn't run in marathons, he would give new meaning to the term "mass shooting"! Slager lied about the incident, planted the taser next to Scott, and performed NO life saving actions. But he did have the presence of mind to handcuff the dying man. Perhaps he still felt threatened. After all, Slager might have slipped on the spreading puddle of Scott's Blood.

Robert LaRosa Whitestone

There is a better alternative to NYC Public Advocate Letitia James's idea of rerouting every other A train from Lefferts Blvd to the Far Rockaway - Mott Avenue Station for better service to the JFK Airtrain at Howard Beach. Why not bring back the extended E line service which ran express into Brooklyn up until the 1970's providing supplemental service to the A line during rush hours running beyond Howard Beach to the Rockaways? This would both preserve existing service that Lefferts Blvd riders deserve along with additional service to the Airtrain and Rockaways.

Larry Penner Great Neck

On 75th Anniversary, Rockaway Remembers Pearl Harbor

City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) on Wednesday hosted a remembrance ceremony in Rockaway marking the 75th anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attacks. Ulrich, who chairs the Council Committee on Veterans, was joined at Memorial Circle by area veterans, including some who served in World War II, students from local schools, and fellow elected officials.

A flag was flown over Memorial Circle that was flown over the USS Arizona Me-

morial in Pearl Harbor earlier this year.

The ceremony also featured a reading of President Franklin Roosevelt’s address to the nation following the tragedy, before a moment of silence at 12:48 p.m., 7:48 a.m.

(Hawaii time), which corresponds to the start of the attack.

Photo Courtesy of Councilman Ulrich’s Office

8 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Dear Everybody, Hi My name is Shadow and I was found running around JFK Airport near the runway on Halloween Day. Since then I have been living with a really great family who loves me a lot. They took me to Just Pawfection and got me a bath, had my nails clipped and I even got a bandana to wear.

Then they took me to the vet and they got me all my shots because they wanted to make sure I would not get sick.

I am a really good boy, about 1 1/2 years old. I am completely housebroken and I know a lot of my obedience commands really well.

The problem is that this family who gave me a temporary home, already has two dogs they even sent one of their own dogs to live with a family member but she can't keep him there any more because he's a really big boy and he needs his

yard and stuff back.

If you would just give me a chance I know you would really like me. I am a purebred Border Collie and I was real expensive.

I am very smart--my breed is the most intelligent of all dogs. I am very, very loyal and I love kids. In fact there's one who lives here now. She's 5 and she likes to pull my tail sometimes, but I don't mind because she also lets me kiss her and lay next to her bed at night.

I don't take up too much space and I'm only gonna be 45 pounds. I love to run and I am a great frisbee player.

So please if you think you'd like to take me in can you call my foster family at 917.468.1125.

I'd make a really cool Christmas present!

Please give me a chance!

Love , Shadow

This is me waiting for my dinner

If you have a point, we'd love to help you get it across.

Call THE FORUM Leave a message 718.845.3221

PUBLISHED by The Forum

Newspaper, Inc.

EDITOR-IN- Michael V. CHIEF Cusenza CONTRIBUTING Alan Krawitz REPORTERS Samantha Geary PHOTOGRAPHY Richard York

EDITORIAL

Never Forget the “Date which will Live in Infamy” In honor of the 75th anniversary of the unprovoked attack on U.S. Naval Station Pearl Harbor by Japan, in which 2,403 American citizens lost their lives, The Forum would like to present President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Dec. 8, 1941, speech to a joint session of Congress: “Yesterday, December 7th, 1941—a date which will live in infamy—the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan.

The United States was at peace with that nation and, at the solicitation of Japan, was still in conversation with its government and its emperor looking toward the maintenance of peace in the Pacific.

Indeed, one hour after Japanese air squadrons had commenced bombing in the American island of Oahu, the Japanese ambassador to the United States and his colleague delivered to our Secretary of State a formal reply to a recent American message. And while this reply stated that it seemed useless to continue the existing diplomatic negotiations, it contained no threat or hint of war or of armed attack.

It will be recorded that the distance of Hawaii from Japan makes it obvious that the attack was deliberately planned many days or even weeks ago. During the intervening time, the Japanese government has deliberately sought to deceive the United States by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

The attack yesterday on the Hawaiian islands has caused severe damage to American naval and military forces. I regret to tell you that very many American lives have been lost. In addition, American ships have been re-

lands.

Last night, the Japanese attacked Wake Island.

And this morning, the Japanese attacked Midway Island.

Japan has, therefore, undertaken a surprise offensive extending throughout the Pacific area. The facts of yesterday and today speak for themselves. The people of the United States have already formed their opinions and well understand the implications to the very life and safety of our nation.

As Commander in Chief of the Army and Navy, I have directed that all measures be taken for our defense. But always will our whole nation remember the character of the onslaught against us.

No matter how long it may take us to overcome this premeditated invasion, the American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.

I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost, but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us.

Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory, and our interests are in grave danger.

With confidence in our armed forces, with the unported torpedoed on the high seas between San Francisco bounding determination of our people, we will gain the and Honolulu.

Yesterday, the Japanese government also launched an inevitable triumph—so help us God. I ask that the Congress declare that since the unproattack against Malaya. voked and dastardly attack by Japan on Sunday, DecemLast night, Japanese forces attacked Hong Kong. ber 7th, 1941, a state of war has existed between the UnitLast night, Japanese forces attacked Guam.

Last night, Japanese forces attacked the Philippine Is- ed States and the Japanese empire.”

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Jolly Old St. Nick Rings in the Season at Woodhaven Santa Parade

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

Kids of all ages last weekend welcomed Santa Claus as they marched with glee along Jamaica Avenue.

By Michael V. Cusenza The World’s Borough last Saturday rolled out the poinsettia-red carpet for Jolly Old St. Nick at the Welcome Santa to Woodhaven Parade.

A time-honored tradition spearheaded by the Greater Woodhaven Development Corporation and the Woodhaven Business Improvement District, the annual event delivers kids of all ages to Jamaica Avenue between Dexter Court and 96th Street to help show Santa and Mrs. Claus some Queens holiday hospitality as they march along the

thoroughfare. Many pint-sized parade-goers also got the chance to take pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus—and even tell the couple what they wanted for Christmas this year.

The parade followed last Friday evening’s festivities at the lighting of the Forest Parkway Plaza Christmas tree and menorah.

Also sponsored by the GWDC/WBID, the celebration attracts dozens of families to the intersection of Forest Parkway and Jamaica Avenue for caroling with Disney characters and a stirring rendition of Clement Clarke Moore’s “Twas the Night before Christmas.”

Mure Makes Holiday Magic Again as Neponsit ‘North Pole’ Raises Funds for Worthy Cause ment – all benefiting JDRF, the leading global organization funding T1D research. Since 1970, the organization has contributed more than $2 billion to T1D research.

According to JDRF, type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which a person’s pancreas stops producing insulin, a hormone that enables people to get energy from food. While its causes are not yet entirely understood, scientists believe that both genetic factors and environmental triggers are involved.

For more information, or to donate, visit jdrf.org.

Photos Courtesy of Instagram

invites children of all ages to Neponsit Avenue and Beach 144th Street for hours Santa Claus and company joined thou- of holiday food, family fun, and gifts from sands of revelers on Saturday in Neponsit the patriarch of the North Pole. Hosted by for Joe Mure’s 21st annual Little North Pole radio personalities Joe Causi and Goumba Johnny, the massive event boasted appearextravaganza.

Each year the attorney and tireless ances from celebrities including Tony Sirifundraiser for type 1 diabetes research co of “The Sopranos,” and live entertain10 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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State Health Dept. adds Chronic Pain to List of Qualifying Conditions for Medical Marijuana

By Forum Staff Chronic pain will be added as a qualifying condition for medical marijuana, the State Department of Health recently announced.

The agency indicated that it will develop a proposed regulatory amendment, which will include language specifying the chronic pain conditions that would qualify for medical marijuana. The proposed regulatory amendment will be published for public comment shortly.

“After conducting a thorough review of the scientific literature, it became clear that there may be certain benefits in the use of medical marijuana by patients suffering from chronic pain,” said Health Commissioner Howard Zucker, M.D. “Medical marijuana is already helping thousands of patients across New York State, and adding chronic pain as a qualifying condition will help more patients and further strengthen the program.”

The other 10 qualifying conditions are cancer, HIV infection or AIDS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, neuropathies, and Huntington’s disease.

“Today’s announcement is welcome

Photo Courtesy of Earth Med

The other 10 qualifying conditions are: cancer, HIV infection or AIDS, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, damage to the nervous tissue of the spinal cord with objective neurological indication of intractable spasticity, epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, neuropathies, and Huntington’s disease.

news for New Yorkers suffering from chronic pain,” said Ari Hoffnung, CEO of Vireo Health of New York, which owns and operates a dispensary near Queens Center Mall.

“Patients struggling with pain deserve more treatment options and it is our hope that medical marijuana will help address one of the biggest public health challenges facing our State – the opioid crisis.”

Regulatory amendments filed by DOH to authorize nurse practitioners to certify patients for medical marijuana took effect

last Wednesday, when the notice of adoption was published in the State Register.

In order to register with the department, nurse practitioners must take the DOHapproved Medical Use of Marijuana course online and submit their certificate of course completions to DOH using the instructions provided on its Medical Marijuana Program Practitioner Information page: health. ny.gov/regulations/medical_marijuana/ practitioner/.

“We applaud the Department of Health’s

decision and are ready to serve patients with chronic pain,” said Dr. Stephen Dahmer, Chief Medical Officer of Vireo Health. “We will continue to advocate for measures that improve patient access to dependable and safe medical cannabis and improve the quality of life for New Yorkers suffering from life-threatening and debilitating diseases.”

Additionally, the department announced, a proposed rulemaking was published last Wednesday that would enable physician assistants to register with DOH to certify patients for medical marijuana, as long as their supervising physician is also registered to certify patients. This proposed rulemaking will be subject to a 45-day public comment period and would not take effect until it is filed for adoption after the public comment period, the department noted.

The Health Department launched the Empire State’s Medical Marijuana Program on Jan. 7, roughly 18 months after Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the Compassionate Care Act. The program makes approved forms of medical marijuana, which has been shown to help alleviate pain and enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from certain diseases, available with a physician’s certification at designated dispensaries across the state. As of Nov. 29, 750 physicians have registered for the program, and 10,730 patients have been certified by their doctors.

Pols Push for Fed Funding to Protect Religious Institutions, Non-Profits from Threats

By Forum Staff Elected officials and faith leaders on Sunday announced a new push for additional federal anti-terror funding to help safeguard civil, religious, and community institutions.

Citing a rise in the number of reported hate crimes “throughout the New York area and across the country,” U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) along with Sens. Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) urged a $5 million increase for a total funding level of at least $25 million in the Fiscal Year 2017 Homeland Security appropriations bill for the Urban Area Security Initiative Non-Profit Photo Courtesy of Sen. Gillibrand’s Office Security Grant Program. The additional Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and fellow pols are urging a $5 million increase in federal anti-terror funding. funding would help ensure the protection of non-profit facilities and places of against our community institutions.” of victims by bias type showed that 59.2 worship from potential threats, Gillbrand In November, the Federal Bureau percent of victims were targeted because said. of Investigation released the 2015 Hate of the offenders’ race/ethnicity/ancestry “No New Yorker should ever live or Crimes Statistics report. According to the bias, 19.7 percent were targeted because worship in fear,” she added. “We can’t agency, law enforcement agencies submit- of the offenders’ religious bias, and 17.7 stand idly by and let these incidents go ted incident reports involving 5,850 crim- percent were victimized because of the ofunanswered. We must make sure our plac- inal incidents and 6,885 related offenses fenders’ sexual-orientation bias. Victims es of worship, our community centers and as being motivated by bias toward race, targeted because of the offenders’ bias non-profits have every resource necessary ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sexual orien- against gender identity accounted for 1.7 to be protected and safe from threats. I’m tation, disability, gender, and gender iden- percent of victims of single-bias incidents; fighting for this additional Homeland tity in 2015. There were 5,818 single-bias disabilities, 1.2 percent; and gender, 0.4 Security funding because we must stand incidents involving 7,121 victims, accord- percent. strong against threats, hatred and attacks ing to the report. A percent distribution The senators wrote a letter to federal 14 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

appropriators requesting the additional $5 million be included in the federal government funding bill currently being debated in the Senate and set to be voted on next week. “’No Jews,’ swastikas, and racist messages have been spray-painted on streets, buildings, and sidewalks at locations across New York City, White Plains, and Ramapo, New Jersey, and in several other cities. Mosques across the country have received threatening letters and have been vandalized while women in hijabs have been assaulted. Meanwhile, members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community face harassment and physical attacks,” the pols wrote. “The rise in hate crimes and pervasiveness of extremist ideology poses a threat to people around the world. This grant program provides essential resources to ensuring the safety and security of these non-profit facilities. It is of paramount concern that we provide our communities with the highest levels of funding available to support these programs. They provide critical support for physical security enhancements to sites at high risk of an attack. With credible threats becoming a daily occurrence against these sites there is a strong need to upgrade the security to these vulnerable locations.”

Administration Opens Art Exhibition, Announces Re-Launch of City Hall Tour Program

By Forum Staff First Lady Chirlane McCray on Monday joined Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Tom Finkelpearl, Public Design Commission Director Justin Moore, and curator Kalia Brooks to announce the relaunch of the City Hall public tour program.

As part of the reopening, the City will unveil the exhibit “City at Work: Portraits in Civic Pride,” a series of portraits of City workers and the New Yorkers they serve every day. The exhibit will be installed throughout the building, concentrated in the rotunda, and open to the public through the Public Design Commission tours.

“City Hall belongs to New Yorkers, and should reflect the vibrant diversity of all the people who make our city great,” McCray said. “The new public tour of City Hall, with the exhibit City at Work, features portraits of City workers from dozens of branches of local government alongside the people they serve every day. The men and women in these portraits keep our streets clean, our families safe, and our future bright. The art that hangs on the walls of City Hall is a reminder of our past and celebration of our present. I hope New Yorkers from all over the city have the opportunity to see these portraits. We want people to learn about our city's history and government, and be

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

The Public Design Commission will kick-start its City Hall tour program, opening the building to the public with a full schedule of new tours.

inspired to participate in making it even better.”

According to the administration, the art exhibit is a creative project by the Mayor’s Office and the Department of Cultural Affairs that aims to use the visual history of the City Hall portrait collection as inspiration for selecting new images that celebrate civic pride through the many people and cultures that the City serves. “City at Work: Por-

traits in Civic Pride,” according to McCray and DCA, highlights the City’s emphasis on public service by focusing on individual and group portraits of municipal employees and residents. For the project, more than 30 City agencies were contacted. The result is a selection of photographs that represent the interaction between city government and constituents through a variety of diverse agencies and jobs – from sanitation, to edu-

cation, to media and entertainment, to the records department.

“City Hall is an amazing building both for its past and its present. The refreshed tour program and the City at Work exhibition will enrich the experience of this great place as a historic building and as the control center of America’s largest urban workforce,” said Finkelpearl, who served as director of the Queens Museum from 2002 to 2014. “I am proud every time I walk into City Hall, and will be even more so now with this exhibition honoring the talented men and women from all backgrounds who serve the public in every corner of New York.”

In conjunction with the City at Work exhibit, the Public Design Commission will kick-start its City Hall tour program, opening the building to the public with a full schedule of tours. Based on in-depth historical research, the new tours will reveal the unique stories behind City Hall, the historic events that took place in and around the building, and the people who shaped the early development of the city and nation. Incorporating the contemporary photographs of City at Work, the tours will bridge the stories of the past to the lives of today – from the Dutch of the 1600s to Revolutionary War heroes to the many people who now live and work in the Big Apple.

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City Set to Receive $55M in New Markets Tax Credits for Community Investment Projects

By Forum Staff

New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) has announced that New York City has been awarded $55 million in New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) from the U.S. Department of Treasury. The credits will be allocated to the New York City Neighborhood Capital Corporation (NYCNCC), a community development entity administered by NYCEDC. The $55 million NMTC allocation provides an exciting opportunity to leverage private investment and provide low-cost financing to advance community-focused real estate development projects, create jobs, and strengthen historically underserved areas throughout the City of New York.

The NMTC Program attracts private capital into low-income communities by providing a federal income tax credit to individual and corporate investors in exchange for making equity investments in those neighborhoods. The credit totals 39 percent of the original investment amount and is claimed over a period of seven years.

“The New Markets Tax Credit program has stimulated criti-

cal private investment in underserved areas while empowering local decision-making on economic revitalization efforts,” said NYCEDC President Maria Torres-Springer. “That is why we are so thrilled to receive this allocation and deploy this uniquely flexible financial tool for the benefit of communities across the five boroughs, creating jobs and opportunity for New Yorkers most in need.”

Out of 238 applicants, NYCNCC was one of 120 community development entities (CDEs) selected to receive $7 billion in NMTCs under this round of awards covering 2015 and 2016 – one of the largest single rounds distributed since the NMTC program launched in 2001. Allocation of the $55 million in NMTCs marks the first time NYCNCC has received an award through this program. The NMTC allocation will be used to

provide catalytic project financing to impactful community development projects that typically face financing challenges, such as health care centers, community facilities, grocery stores, industrial space, and small business retailers located in underserved areas.

“I congratulate the NYC Neighborhood Capital Corporation for receiving $55M in New Markets Tax Credits. This is a unique chance to strategically invest this award into community-

focused projects that will truly uplift underserved communities and improve the quality of life for New Yorkers throughout the city,” said Seth Bornstein, Executive Director of the Queens Economic Development Corporation.

NYCNCC’s NMTC allocation will be solely focused on projects within New York City’s five boroughs, whereas most other CDEs located in New York have a national or state-wide reach. The Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Fund was created in 1994 to expand the availability of credit, investment capital, and financial services in distressed urban and rural communities. The NMTC Program, administered by the CDFI Fund, provides tax credits that advance economic development in order to spur private investment in distressed communities.

For more information or to learn how your project can benefit from NYCEDC’s NMTC program, visit our website or contact the EDC Strategic Investments Group at 212.618.5737.

Courtesy of CDFI Fund

Major Crimes Continue 2016 Trend Downward

By Michael V. Cusenza The crime-statistic story of 2016 is the consistent decline in reported major offenses – and the recently released November numbers indicate more of the same.

“November continued the year-long trend of reduced crime in New York City,” Deputy Commissioner of Operations Dermot Shea said on Monday. “With just under four weeks left to go in 2016, we’re poised to have really historic levels of both index crimes, as well as gun violence seen in New York City. We are not finished. Just as we sit here today, we’re reviewing across the department – deputy commissioner officers, different bureaus and divisions, all units – to look forward to 2017 – how we can push crime down even further. And we believe that we can.”

Overall major index crimes were down 9.9 percent – more than 900 offenses – compared to November 2015. Index crimes are: murder, rape, robbery, grand larceny, grand larceny auto, felony assault, and burglary.

Police Commissioner Jim O’Neill was particularly impressed with the stats on shooting incidents. This November, the NYPD recorded 67 shootings; there were 80 last year at this time.

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office

Overall crime is down nearly 10 percent across the five boroughs, compared to the same period last year.

“This is all as a direct result of the hard work of the men and women of the NYPD, and in conjunction with neighborhood policing. That is helping us push crime down even further,” O’Neill said.

“And then with [Chief of Detectives] Bob Boyce’s people engaged in precision policing, where we’re going after the crews and gangs. So, this is enabling us to push this.

And again, this doesn’t happen by accident. This happens because all New Yorkers are coming together to push crime

16 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

down even further.”

Shea noted that through the end of November, the city is down 107 shooting incidents – a reduction of more than 10 percent. Through the first 11 months of 2015, the City had recorded 1,043 shootings.

Other notable numbers include: rape, which dropped 20 percent; robbery was down close to 16 percent; and burglaries dipped 22 percent, compared to last November.

“What we’re seeing now is precision policing in action. We’re all seeing every single month more and more of the impact of neighborhood policing and the closer bonds between police and community,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “And that story will continue to grow and make an impact on this city.”

Shea added that the good news is an indication that the department needs even more help from the community.

“Whether it’s cooperating with cases that are going on already in the criminal justice system or increased participation, block watches, showing up at community council meetings – there’s a variety of benefits that this gives to us, increases our eyes and ears on the street. Just in a multitude of ways, we encourage all New Yorkers to get involved, to get involved more.

They already are involved,” Shea said. “We still do have crime in New York City. It’s at unprecedented lows, but one crime is too many. So when there is a crime that occurs, for example some of the ones Bob [Boyce] alluded to, we ask the people in those communities to get involved, become a part of the block watchers, show up at the community council meetings. If you have a tip, call up. And this is going to just add to this crime reduction.”

Cuomo Unveils Plan Aimed at Protecting Residents from Deceptive Telemarketers

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The multi-pronged plan includes requiring telemarketers to use correct caller ID information.

By Forum Staff At a time when the number of Do Not Call complaints in New York is on the rise, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced a multipronged plan to protect New Yorkers from deceptive telemarketing practices.

The initiative centers around newly signed legislation requiring telemarketers to use correct caller identification information and also includes deploying Division of Consumer Protection staff throughout the state to warn consumers about telemarketing scams and facilitate same-day consumer complaint filing, as well as increasing transparency in Do Not Call Law enforcement by posting settlements with violators.

“Despite already being listed on the Do Not Call registry, New Yorkers continue to find themselves bombarded by calls from opportunists looking to defraud them out of their hard-earned money,” Cuomo said.

“This unscrupulous behavior and disregard of the law is unacceptable and we’re taking action to not only hold those who violate the law accountable, but also increase transparency and stop these deceiving marketing practices in their tracks.”

Last week, Cuomo signed legislation requiring telemarketers to use correct caller ID information. According to the administration, many consumers complain that when a telemarketer calls, their caller identification service does not display the caller’s correct telephone information, such as the caller’s name or phone number.

This is especially problematic for consumers who have signed up for the National Do Not Call Registry, since they have neither the name of the telemarketer nor the number from which they are calling, making it difficult to report violations of the Do Not

Call law. The new law seeks to remedy that problem.

The Division of Consumer Protection reminds residents to report each and every unwanted call. Here are guidelines to place your phone number on the Do Not Call Registry and to file a complaint: • File a Do Not Call complaint: If you receive an unsolicited telemarketing call after your number has been on the Do Not Call Registry for more than 31 days, you can file a Do Not Call complaint with the Federal Trade Commission online at donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-3821222 (TTY 1-866-290-4236).

• File a complaint for each unwanted call: If your number is registered, you can and should file a complaint for every unsolicited telemarketing call you receive. Violators of the Do Not Call Law are subject to an $11,000 fine for every call they make to your phone.

• Register for Do Not Call online or by phone: If you are not registered, you can place your home landline or mobile phone number on the Do Not Call Registry online at donotcall.gov or by calling 1-888-382-1222 (TTY 1-866-290-4236).

Once you register your phone number, telemarketers not exempt from the Do Not Call Registry have up to 31 days from the date you register to stop calling you.

Exemptions from the Do Not Call Law include calls from or on behalf of political organizations, charities, and telephone surveyors. Companies with which you have an existing business relationship may still call you for up to 18 months (unless you ask them to place your number on their own do-not-call list).

For information about a Do Not Call outreach location near you, visit dos. ny.gov/consumerprotection/informing/

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718-751-6235 • 646-403-2259 www.johnsallseason.com www.facebook.com/johnsallseason THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 15 • Number 49 DECEMBER 8, 2016| 17

Public Housing Developments Now Required to Provide Smoke-Free Environment for Residents

By Forum Staff The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently issued a final rule requiring each public housing agency administering public housing to implement a smoke-free policy.

HUD Sec. Julian Castro announced the new rule last week, noting that it prohibits lit tobacco products (cigarettes, cigars or pipes) in all living units, indoor common areas, administrative offices, and all outdoor areas within 25 feet of housing and administrative office buildings.

The agency indicated that its final rule included input from more than 1,000 comments from PHAs, housing and health partners, and tenant advocates.

“HUD’s smoke-free rule is a reflection of our commitment to using housing as a platform to create healthy communities,” Castro said. “By working collaboratively with public housing agencies, HUD’s rule will create healthier homes for all of our families and prevent devastating and costly smoking-related fires.”

HUD has said that the smoke-free rule will reduce damage and maintenance costs associated with smoking. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the national smoke-free policy will save public housing agencies $153 million every year in repairs and preventable fires, including $94 million in secondhand

Photo Courtesy of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

HUD Secretary Julian Castro (l.) and Vice Admiral Vivek Murthy, M.D., Surgeon General of the United States.

smoke-related health care, $43 million in renovation of smoking-permitted units, and $16 million in smoking-related fire losses.

It is estimated that smoking causes more than 100,000 fires each year nationwide, resulting in more than 500 deaths and nearly a half a billion dollars in direct property damage.

Additionally, the CDC estimates cigarette smoking kills 480,000 Americans each year, making it the leading preventable

cause of death in the United States. Smoking also is the lead cause of fire-related deaths in multifamily buildings, the agency noted. The new smoke-free rule, HUD noted, will protect the health of public housing residents by reducing the health risks associated with tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke.

“My office has long warned the public about the dangers of smoking, including second-hand smoke,” said U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy. “For children who

are exposed to second-hand smoke, it can mean everything from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and ear infections to asthma.

Protecting our children and families from the devastation caused by secondhand smoke must be a priority for all sectors of our society, including public housing.”

According to HUD, since 2009 the agency has strongly encouraged PHAs to adopt smoke-free policies in their buildings and common areas, a policy many private housing developments already have in place. During this time, more than 600 PHAs and Tribally Designated Housing Entities have adopted smoke-free policies. Through HUD’s voluntary policy and local initiatives, more than 228,000 public housing units are already smoke-free.

Once fully implemented, the smoke-free rule announced last Wednesday would expand the impact to more than 940,000 public housing units, including more than 500,000 units inhabited by elderly residents and 760,000 children living in public housing.

“Protecting people from secondhand smoke saves lives and saves money,” said CDC Director and former NYC Health Commissioner Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H. “This is especially important in the places where we live. No level of secondhand smoke exposure is safe, and the home is the primary source of secondhand smoke for children.”

Possible Special Session on Albany Horizon

By Michael V. Cusenza

As of Wednesday evening, it was still unclear whether State lawmakers would soon convene a special legislative session in Albany to tackle several items, including a salary bump for members of the Senate and Assembly.

“The governor and legislative leaders have been discussing issues that could be reviewed in a special session,” said Rich Azzopardi, spokesman for Gov. Andrew Cuomo. “The legislators are clearly interested in returning to reauthorize a Pay Commission which would need to act by the December 31st deadline if the legislators will receive any pay raise.”

Cuomo has indicated that the thrust of such a capital confab must be about more than just an increase in income, Azzopardi noted.

“The governor is most interested in having the people’s business attended to and believes if there is to be a special session the legislators should do more than merely reauthorize a committee to consider their pay raise,” he said.

According to Azzopardi, Cuomo and company are discussing: • Breaking the Senate and Assembly logjam on the $2 billion housing memo and at least release much-needed funds to combat homelessness.

• Provide new funding to operate the governor’s Hate Crimes Task Force run by the

Photo Courtesy of Kevin P. Coughlin/Office of the Governor

Gov. Andrew Cuomo has said that if a special session were to be convened it “should do more than merely reauthorize a committee to consider [legislators’] pay raise.”

State Police and Division of Human Rights to battle recent acts of illegal discrimination.

• Procurement reforms, including providing Inspectors General for SUNY and CUNY with subpoena power for their foundations.

• Sweeping new ethics reforms to change the very structure of state government and puts the major questions before the people for Constitutional Amendments, including: a constitutional amendment to limit outside income and create a full-time Legislature

18 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

with a full-time salary that will be put before voters; a second constitutional amendment to create four-year legislative terms and put into place eight-year term limits for new members and term limits for statewide officials, which will be put before voters; reducing campaign contribution limits; limiting donations from those seeking state contracts during and after the RFP process; expanding disclosure requirements for local elected officials; extending the life of the Pay Commission until postConstitutional Amendments determinations;

empowering the Office of Court Administration to ensure all legislators’ outside income – as well as the Executive’s Commissioners – are free of conflicts and in compliance with the Public Officer’s Law. Azzopardi added that Cuomo understands that “legislators often reference the New York City Council which gets paid double the amount State legislators get paid.

That is a valid point. However, what the legislators fail to point out is that the New York City Council banned outside income and has adopted term limits.”

The spokesman later noted the Pay Commission’s most recent position on the matter: “’We recognize that going 17 years without an increase legitimately puts a financial strain on the majority of legislators who rely solely on their government salary. As such, subject to further discussions and deliberations, the executive’s appointees could consider a modest increase. However, anything more than that would need to address the public’s concern and opposition by making the position effectively full time and limiting outside income. Accordingly, should the legislature pass reforms that mirror those of the United States Congress, including a cap on outside income, we are prepared to recommend and approve at a reconvened meeting of the Commission, a salary substantially higher than any discussed so far by this Commission, taking in consideration Congressional and New York City Council salaries.’”

Last-minute Holiday Shopping Tips

Holiday shopping season typically begins the day after Thanksgiving and extends all the way to Christmas Eve. While that’s a considerable amount of time for shoppers to find gifts for everyone on their shopping list, many people will still find themselves putting holiday shopping off until the last minute.

In certain ways, last-minute holiday shopping is easier than ever. Thanks to online retailers who can ship products overnight, men and women who delay their holiday shopping have more options at their disposal than they did before the arrival of the Internet. And unlike the days of yore when the best deals were largely exclusive to Black Friday, some shoppers find that competition between online retailers and traditional brick-and-mortar stores is so great that deals can be found regardless of when they begin shopping.

But while waiting until the last minute to begin holiday shopping may not be as risky as it used to be, shoppers may still benefit by sticking to certain strategies so they can find the perfect gifts without breaking the bank.

• Stay within your budget. Even lastminute shoppers have holiday shopping budgets. But it can be harder for lastminute shoppers to stick to their budgets because they have less time to comparison shop and hunt for deals. As the holiday shopping season winds down, resist the temptation to go over budget. If a gift you had in mind is available but more than you can spend, look for something else.

Overspending on holiday shopping in December is a recipe for debt in January, and no shopper wants to begin the new year weighed down by consumer debt.

• Shop local. National chains and big box retailers are renowned for rolling out great deals during the holiday season, but such stores may have very limited or unimpressive inventory left by the time last-minute shoppers begin shopping. Local retailers are often incapable of slashing prices as significantly as their larger competitors, and that may mean they have more extensive inventories available throughout the holiday shopping season.

In addition, shoppers who stick with local retailers won’t have to pay shipping costs to ensure items arrive on time.

• Shop during off-peak hours. Shopping during off-peak hours can help lastminute shoppers make efficient use of the limited time they have to buy gifts for their loved ones. Visit stores early in the morning or late at night, or schedule a midweek afternoon shopping trip so you aren’t spending what little time you have left waiting on lines or hunting for parking.

• Give something less traditional.

Holiday gifts need not come from stores.

Rather than spending their time shopping for gifts for loved ones who seemingly have it all, last-minute shoppers can give the gift of a donation in their loved one’s name. Last-minute shoppers who want to give something more tangible can create a homemade gift that’s both unique and heartfelt. If your DIY skills are lacking, give a loved one the gift of a night out on the town at your expense.

Shoppers who wait until the end of the holiday shopping season to begin their searches for holiday gifts can still find great gifts without going broke.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 15 • Number 49 DECEMBER 8, 2016| 19

20 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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GOLDEN TOUCH MECHANICAL, LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/01/2016. Office loc: Queens County.

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WINTHROP ENTERPRISES LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/27/2016. Office loc: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: UNITED STATES CORPORATION AGENTS, 7014 13TH AVENUE, SUITE 202, BROOKLYN, NY, 11228. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of formation of ASJ STEINWAY LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 08/12/2016. Office located in QUEENS COUNTY. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC at 14418 29TH RD FLUSHING NY 11354. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

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Legal Notices 40-08 57th STREET L.L.C. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/20/16.

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, 40-08 57TH STREET LLC, 40-08 57TH STREET, WOODSIDE, NY, 11377. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of APPLIED HVAC ENGINEERING, PLLC. Articles of Organization have been filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 09/30/2016. Office is located in Queens. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the PLLC, at 64-91 84th Street, Middle Village, N.Y..11379. Purpose: Any lawful purpose permitted for PLLC’s under NY Domestic Professional Limited Liability Company Act. Notice of Formation of MB HOLLISWOOD PARTNERS, L.P. Certificate filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/14/16. Duration: 12/31/2065. Office location: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of LP upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o General Partner, 7211 137th St., Flushing, NY 11367. Name/address of each genl. ptr. available from SSNY. Purpose: any lawful activities.

HILLS MANAGEMENT SERVICE, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 9/07/2016.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 108-56 65TH AVE. which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

SUPASIT THAI KITCHEN, LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 9/16/16.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY is desdates:upon whom process against ignatedRun as agent DECEMBER 1 thru 5 the LLC may be served.

SSNYJANUARY shall mail process to $350 UNITED STATES CORPORATION AGENTS, INC. 7014 13TH AVENUE SUITE 202, BROOKLYN NEW YOK 11228.

General purpose.

Yrentbay, LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 6/17/16. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Golden Globe Multi Brokerage Corp., 155-39 78th Street # 3, Howard Brach, New York, 11414.

General purpose.

SCHUMAN MAYNARD FARM LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/21/16.

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, 36-04 Skillman Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Guardrail Security Consultants, LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 9/28/16. Office location: Queens County.

SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Anthony Burti, 11 Utica Walk, Breezy Point, NY 11697. General purpose.

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Legal Notices Notice of Qualification of Oatmami LLC. App. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/24/16. Office location: Queens County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 7/29/16. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Reis Studio (studio 349), 43-01 22nd St., Long Island City, NY 11101. DE address of LLC: State Street Corporate LLC, 1786 Mount Friendship Road, Smyrna, DE 19977. Arts. of Org. filed with DE Secy. of State, 401 Federal St., Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: any lawful activity.

ACA ASSOCIATES OF QUEENS, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/16/2016.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 35-30 166th St., Flushing, NY 11358, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

136-78 LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/24/16. 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, 86-22 Broadway, FL 2,Elmhurst, NY 11373. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Run dates: DECEMBER 1 thru JANUARY 5

AUTOMODE LLC a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 7/20/16. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process UNITED STATES CORPORATION AGENTS, 7014 13TH AVENUE, SUITE 202, BROOKLYN, NY 11228. General purpose.

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Legal Notices TAJ PALACE II LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/23/16. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Kulbir Singh, 558B Kimball Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10704. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice is hereby given that a license, number 1296923 for a restaurant beer and wine license has been applied for by La Polleria De Mario 77 Inc., to sell alcoholic beverages at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law LEYAP HOME IMPROVEMENT AND at 41-20 Greenpoint Avenue Sunnyside, RESTORATION SERVICES LLC a domestic NY 11104 for on premise consumption.

LLC, filed with the SSNY on 9/8/16. Office loNotice of formation of Sorojo LLC. Arcation: Queens County. SSNY is designated as ticles of Organization filed with the Secretary agent upon whom process against the LLC may of State of New York SSNY on 9/16/16. Ofbe served. SSNY shall mail process UNITED STATES CORPORATION AGENTS, 7014 fice located in Queens. SSNY has been desig13TH AVENUE, SUITE 202, BROOKLYN, NY nated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 11228. General purpose.

16803 71st Ave, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365.

Notice of Formation of Like Father, LLC. Purpose: any lawful purpose

Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/18/16. Office location: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Like Father, LLC, c/o Phiphen Pictures, 34-12 36th St., Ste. 125, Astoria, NY 11106.

Purpose: any lawful activities.

MBQ & W LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/7/16. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC 43-47 Elbertson St Elmhurst, NY 11373.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

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East Hao LLC Arts. of Org. filed w/ SSNY 10/13/16. Off. in Queens Cnty. SSNY desig. as agt. of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 107-42 89th St, Ozone Park, NY 11417. Purpose: all lawful activities.

Notice of formation of Beckhom Visuals LLC Articles of organization filed with the Secretary of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on April 29, 2016. 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,8845 53RD AVE,Elmhurst,NY11373. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

WEALTH GLOBAL REGIONAL CENTER, LLC Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/16/16. 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 WEALTH GLOBAL REGIONAL CENTER, LLC, 132-29 BLOSSOM AVENUE, SUITE#CF, FLUSHING, NY 11355.Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

122-01 LIBERTY AVE. LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 10/6/16.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC 122-01 Liberty Ave Richmond Hill, NY 11419. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

14-14 31 Road LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 11/8/16. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process Krzysztof Baran, P.O. Box 20792, Park West Station, NY, NY 10025. General purpose.

DIANE WONG, DDS, PLLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 10/11/16.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of PLLC upon whom process may be served.

Notice of Formation of a Limited Li- SSNY shall mail copy of process to The PLLC ability Company (LLC) Name: Liberatos 63-85 Woodhaven Blvd Apt #3G Rego Park, Brothers, LLC Articles of Organization NY 11374. Purpose: Any lawful activity. filed by the Department of State of New York on: 07/08/2015 Office location: County of CPP REALTY, LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of Queens Purpose: any and all lawful activi- State (SSNY) on 9/16/16. Office: Queens County. ties Secretary of State of New York (SSNY ) SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom prois designated as agent of the LLC upon whom cess may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: C/O process against it may be served. SSNY shall UNITED STATES CORPORATION AGENTS, mail a copy of process to: 35-41 204th Street- INC. 7014 13TH AVENUE SUITE 202, BROOKBayside, NY 11361. Purpose: Any lawful pur- LYN, NY 11228. General Purposes. pose.

PATHWAYS OF SUCCESS: A MULTI-SERVICE CENTER,LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 9/15/16. Office: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: C/O UNITED STATES CORPORATION AGENTS, INC. 7014 13TH AVENUE SUITE 202, BROOKLYN, NY 11228. General Purposes.

22 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

TOMO TRANS LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/27/16. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be Run dates: served. SSNY shall mail copy of process 1 thru JANUARY to the LLC,DECEMBER 6248 MOUNT OLIVET, 2ND 5 COST: 350.00 A, MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY 11379. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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OLD HOWARD BEACH

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2 FAMILY IMMACULATE CONDITION 4 BEDROOMS 2 FULL BATHS TOTALLY RENOVATED FIRST FLOOR WITH FORMAL DINING ROOM WITH BEAUTIFUL HARDWOOD FLOORING, SPACIOUS LIVING ROOM WITH FRENCH DOORS LEADING TO BACKYARD, SUNNY AND BRIGHT KITCHEN WITH STAINLESS APPLIANCES AND CAESAR STONE COUNTERS. TOO MANY EXTRAS TO MENTION!!

MUST SEE TO APPRECIATE!!!

HOWARD BEACH

FIRST FLOOR 2 BEDROOM GARDEN CO OP, PET FRIENDLY. WASHER AND DRYER ALLOWED IN UNIT

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9 10 101 Avenue • Ozon Park, NY, 1416 � � � au r.

Cell. (917) 208-9176 • Fax. (718) 848 4865 Email: cdefalcorealtor@aol.com • Web: www.carolyndefalco.com

OLD HOWARD BEACH BOAT LOVERS DREAM!!

FEATURING 3 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHS, TOTALLY RENOVATED FIRST FLOOR, KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTERS AND STAINLESS APPLIANCES, ENCLOSED FLORIDA ROOMS ON EACH FLOOR, TONS OF CLOSET SPACE, BEAUTIFUL BACKYARD!!!

HOWARD BEACH TWO BEDROOM TWO BATH CO-OP WITH TERRACE, UPDATED KITCHEN AND BATHS VERY SPACIOUS LAYOUT CLOSETS GALORE!

Licensed Broker Associate Notary Public

Ifyou or someone you know Is Cooki119 to 6uy OT seff, OT would fike an �ti119 career In Real Estate) pCease 9ive me a caff!

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 15 • Number 49 DECEMBER 8, 2016| 23

Sale Dates

Fri. Dec

9

Sat. Dec

Sun. Dec

Mon. Dec

Tues Dec

Wed Dec

Thurs.

Dec

10 11 12 13 14 15

USDA Choice Beef First Cut...Bone In

SHELL STEAKS

EXCLUSIVE OFFER FOR FORUM READERS ONLY! FREE BOTTLE SAN PELLIGRINO SPARKLING WATER

6.8-26.5 oz package...assorted (Excludes:Single Serve & Any Items Priced over $6.99 Normal Retail)

Entenmann's Full Line Sale!

25.3 oz.

WITH $25.00 PURCHASE

LIMIT ONE OFFER PER HOUSEHOLD

4

2

$ 99

$ 99

USDA Governmnt Inspected Fresh

59 fluid oz cont...

Assorteds Excludes Lemonades

Lb. Family pack

BONELESS CHICKEN BREASTS

SIMPLY JUICE

Family pack 3 lbs. or more

1

$ 49 Lb.

Yellow or White

FREE BOTTLE SAN PELLIGRINO SPARKLING WATER 25.3 oz.

WITH $25.00 PURCHASE

LAND O'LAKES AMERICAN CHEESE

4

$ 99

Lb. sliced to order

2/ 5 $

5.3-7oz cont.

Assorted

FAGE TOTAL GREEK YOGURT

LIMIT ONE OFFER PER HOUSEHOLD ABSOLUTELY NO OFERS HONORED WITHOUT PRESENTATION OF THIS COUPON

24 DECEMBER 8, 2016 • Number 49 VOL. 15 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

10/ 10 $