THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | APRIL 28, 2022

VOL. 21 • NUMBER 15 • APRIL 28, 2022

HANDYMAN SLAUGHTER South Richmond Hill Contractor Allegedly Confesses to Butchering Forest Hills Mom

See story on page 2

The weapon David Bonola allegedly used to murder Orsolya Gaal.

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 1

South Richmond Hill Man Charged with Brutal Slaying of Forest Hills Mom gued; Bonola allegedly confessed to butchering Gaal and moving her body.

“Two boys are left without a mother and a young teenager faces the added trauma of being home when this heinous murder took place. As alleged, the defendant stabbed the victim over 50 times and then attempted to dispose of the body by stuffing it into a duffel bag and dragging it across a quiet residential neighborhood—leaving a trail of blood and a terrified community,” Katz said. “The defendant is now in custody and will be held to account for this horrific crime.”

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

Orsolya Gaal’s body was discovered near Forest Park on April 16.

By Michael V. Cusenza A South Richmond Hill man has been charged with murder in the shocking stabbing death of a Forest Hills mother whose body was found earlier this month in a duffel bag dumped near Forest Park, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Thursday.

David Bonola, 44, was arraigned Thursday night on a complaint charging him with murder in the second degree, tampering with physical evidence, and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree.

According to the charges, Orsolya Gaal, 51, returned to her Forest Hills home

around 12:30 a.m. Saturday, April 16 after an evening out. Bonola, who was a handyman and had done work at Gaal’s home on and off for the last two years, arrived at the victim’s home a few minutes later. He entered the Juno Street residence and the two engaged in a verbal argument, which escalated to Bonola allegedly slashing the woman’s throat and stabbing her more than 50 times.

The DA continued that Bonola then found a hockey duffel bag that belonged to one of the victim’s sons and stuffed the woman’s bloody body inside it. He is allegedly seen on video surveillance from a nearby home rolling the duffel bag through the quiet neighborhood.

Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza

According to the charges, the bag was discovered around 8 a.m. Saturday near Forest Park at Metropolitan Avenue and Union Turnpike. Inside were the remains of the married mother of two. Investigators followed a trail of blood from the bag to the crime scene—Gaal’s Forest Hills abode approximately a half-mile from the dump site.

During the investigation, the DA said, police recovered a bloody jacket and bloodstained tissues from Forest Park.

On Wednesday, Bonola offered to speak to police, and during questioning allegedly made incriminating statements. He rePhoto Courtesy of DA Katz vealed that some time on Saturday he went “Two boys are left without a mother and a young to a city hospital for a cut on his hand. He teenager faces the added trauma of being home when also allegedly said that he and the victim ar- this heinous murder took place,” DA Katz said.

City Bravest Dies Battling Brooklyn Blaze

Firefighter Timothy Klein

Photo Courtesy of FDNY

By Michael V. Cusenza City Firefighter Timothy Klein died Sunday while battling a blaze in Canarsie, Mayor Eric Adams and Acting Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh announced.

The six-year veteran smoke-eater was trapped under a ceiling collapse and criti-

cally injured while battling a 3-alarm fire on Avenue N. Klein was removed from the building by his fellow Firefighters and rushed to Brookdale University Hospital Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries.

“New York City has lost one of its bravest today – Firefighter Timothy Klein,” Adams said. “He lost his life doing the job we asked of him every day – bravely fighting to save others from fire. We pray for his family and his fellow Firefighters during this terribly painful time.”

“The Department is heartbroken today at the loss of Firefighter Timothy Klein, who died risking his life to save others,” Kavanagh added. “His family has a rich history of service in the FDNY, and he bravely followed in their footsteps. The hearts of the entire department are with the Klein family and with the members of Engine Company 257 and Ladder Company 170.”

On Sunday, April 24, at 1:49 p.m., FDNY units responded to 108-26 Avenue N in Brooklyn for reports of smoke in the area. Firefighter Klein (assigned to Ladder Company 170 but working in Engine

2 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Company 257 on this tour) responded in under five minutes with his fellow firefighters and found visible fire in a private home.

The fire quickly escalated to a 3-alarm fire.

Conditions in the fire building deteriorated rapidly and the Incident Commander ordered all members from the building. At that time, a collapse occurred inside the building, injuring four members of Engine Company 257 who were inside at the time.

In addition to Klein, one firefighter and his Captain were transported to Staten Island University Hospital with burns, and one additional firefighter was transported to Brookdale Hospital with injuries from the collapse. In all, nine Firefighters, including Firefighter Klein, were injured.

Klein was appointed to the FDNY on December 28, 2015. After graduating from the Fire Academy, he was assigned to Ladder Company 170 in Canarsie, Brooklyn.

In January 2019, he delivered the eulogy for Firefighter Steven Pollard, his friend and fellow firefighter from Ladder Company 170 who died in the line of duty.

Klein is the 1,157th member of the FDNY to die in the line-of-duty. A borough

native who was raised in Breezy Point, attended Archbishop Molloy High School in Briarwood, and lived in Rockaway, Klein is survived by his father, retired FDNY Firefighter Patrick Klein, his mother Diane, and his three sisters. The last member of the Department to die in the line of duty was Firefighter Jesse Gerhard, who died on Feb. 16, 2022.

“It is always a tragedy for the City when we lose one of our brave first responders, but it really hits home when one of those people is a resident of your community.

And that is the case with Firefighter Timothy Klein who died on Sunday after battling a blaze in Brooklyn. Klein grew up in Breezy Point and lived in Rockaway,” State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach), a fellow Molloy alumnus, said. “Klein gave his life protecting others, and his bravery and memory will live on through his family and the people that he has saved. I want to send my condolences to Klein’s family and friends, as well as Ladder Co. 170, during this most difficult time, and I wish the other Firefighters injured in that fire a speedy recovery.”

Antisemitic Incidents Reach All-Time High in ‘21

By Forum Staff Antisemitic incidents reached an all-time high in the United States in 2021, with a total of 2,717 incidents of assault, harassment and vandalism reported to ADL (the AntiDefamation League). This represents the highest number of incidents on record since ADL began tracking antisemitic incidents in 1979 – an average of more than seven incidents per day and a 34 percent increase year over year.

ADL’s annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents, issued Tuesday, found that antisemitic incidents reached a high watermark across virtually every category. Attacks against Jewish institutions, including Jewish community centers ( JCCs) and synagogues, were up by 61 percent, incidents at K-12 schools increased 106 percent, and incidents on college campuses rose 21 percent.

Assaults – considered the most serious incident type because it involves person-onperson physical violence triggered by antisemitic animus – increased 167 percent, jumping to a total of 88 reports in 2021 from 33 in 2020. Incidents of harassment were up 43 percent, and acts of antisemitic vandalism rose 14 percent.

A substantial surge was reported during the May 2021 conflict between Israel and Hamas.

There was a staggering 148 percent increase in reports of antisemitic incidents that month when compared in May 2020, as tensions were high and hundreds of anti-Israel protests took place in dozens of U.S. cities. As Jewish individuals were violently beaten in the streets from New York to Los Angeles, a total of 387 incidents were reported that month with 297 of the incidents occurring after May 10, the date marking the official start of military action.

Your problems are our job.

Let us begin helping you with a free consultation.

Major Findings: In 2021, ADL counted a total of 2,717 antisemitic incidents across the U.S. This represents a 34 percent increase from the 2,026 incidents recorded in 2020 and is the highest number on record since ADL began tracking antisemitic incidents in 1979. The Audit classifies incidents into three categories: • Assault: A total of 88 incidents were categorized as assault, defined as cases where Jewish people (or people perceived to be Jewish) were targeted with physical violence accompanied by evidence of antisemitic animus.

Antisemitic assaults increased 167 percent from the 33 reported in 2020. Eleven of the assaults in 2021 were perpetrated with deadly weapons. The 88 incidents of assault included 131 victims. Fortunately, no fatalities linked to antisemitic assaults were reported in 2021.

• Harassment: Of the total, 1,776 incidents were categorized as harassment, defined as cases where one or more Jewish people (or people perceived to be Jewish) were harassed with antisemitic slurs, stereotypes or conspiracy theories. Acts of harassment increased 43 percent, up from 1,242 incidents in 2020.

• Vandalism: Another 853 incidents were categorized as vandalism, defined as cases where property was damaged along with evidence of antisemitic intent. Acts of antisemitic vandalism increased 14 percent from the 751 incidents reported in 2020. Swastikas, which are generally interpreted as symbols of antisemitic hatred, were present in more than two-thirds (578) of these incidents. “ W hile we have always seen a rise in antisemitic activity during periods of increased hostilities between Israel and terrorist groups, the violence we witnessed in America during the conflict last May was shocking,” said Jonathan A. Greenblatt, ADL CEO and national director.

Taking control of your situation starts with a no cost, no obligation call to the experienced professionals at Faulisi Law. Stop worrying. Start doing.

OFFERS SERVICES IN: - Business Law - Tax Problems - Accounting - Wills & Trusts - Divorces - DWI - Criminal Law

JOSEPH FAULISI, ESQ., CPA Call today: e-mail: info@faulisilaw.com website: faulisilaw.com 101-42 99th Street Ozone Park, NY 11416

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Courtesy of ADL

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 3

Borough Hooker Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Selling Drugs that Caused Fatal ODs fentanyl-laced drugs which caused his overdose death. On Aug. 5, 2019, Barini met another victim in College Point and gave him fentanyl-laced drugs which caused his overdose death.

Additionally, on Aug. 18, 2019, Barini met a victim inside an Elmhurst motel room and drugged him with GBL, which is commonly referred to as a “date rape” drug. The victim died shortly after entering the motel room and Barini made repeated attempts to dispose of the victim’s body without being detected. On

Aug. 21, 2019, the NYPD found the victim dead in the motel room. The victim’s body had been wrapped in bleachstained sheets and placed inside of a garbage bin.

Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace said Barini “drugged and killed multiple people for a few quick dollars. She stole their personal belongings while they lay unconscious dying from the lethal drugs she gave them. [Her] substantial prison sentence is warranted by her shocking disregard for human life.”

Photo Courtesy of Google

In August 2019, City cops discovered one of Barini’s victims in a room at this motel on Elmhurst.

By Michael V. Cusenza A Rego Park woman has been sentenced to 30 years’ imprisonment for distributing narcotics and causing the deaths of multiple victims, federal prosecutors announced Tuesday.

In August 2021, former prostitute Angelina Barini, 43, pleaded guilty to two counts of distributing narcotics that caused the deaths of a person; one count of distributing fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine; and one count of conspiring to distribute gamma-butyrolactone (GBL).

As detailed in court filings and statements at court proceedings, between July and August of 2019, Barini provided narcotics to her victims to incapacitate and rob them of their belongings while sometimes conducting business as a sex worker.

On multiple occasions, those narcotics contained lethal doses of fentanyl. On July 4, 2019, Barini met with a victim at a motel in Astoria and gave him fentanyl-laced drugs. The victim was found dead later that day.

Photo Courtesy of Google On July 11, 2019, Barini met with a vic- The body of a 60-year-old College Point man was discovered on Aug. 5, 2019 inside a room at the Airway Inn at tim at a motel in Woodside and gave him LaGuardia Airport in East Elmhurst.

4 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Corrupt Cop Gets 8+ Years in Prison

By Forum Staff A former City cop has been sentenced to 97 months in prison for using interstate facilities to commit bribery and attempting to transport heroin, federal prosecutors recently announced.

During the relevant period, Robert Smith, 45, was a NYPD police officer assigned to the 105th Precinct in Queens Village, retiring in March 2020. Smith pleaded guilty to the charges in October 2021. Smith’s co-defendant, Heather Busch, 35, also a former NYPD police officer, was sentenced in February 2022 to six months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty in August 2021 to using interstate facilities to commit bribery. Another codefendant, Robert Hassett, 37, also a former NYPD police officer, pleaded guilty in October 2021 to conspiracy to violate the Travel Act and is awaiting sentencing.

Smith engaged in several corrupt schemes to solicit and receive bribes while employed by the NYPD. Upon his retirement from the NYPD, Smith agreed to transport illegal drugs while armed with a gun in exchange for cash payments. In recordings obtained by the government during the investigation, Smith repeatedly referred to himself in criminal terms as, for example, “one of the most corrupt cops in the 105,” a “perp that got away,” and someone who, had he not been an NYPD officer, would have been “locked up so many times.”

The Tow Truck Scheme Beginning in September 2016, NYPD Officers Smith and Hassett responded to automobile accidents by directing the damaged vehicles to a licensed tow trucking and automobile repair business (the “Business”) operated by an individual (the “Individual”), instead of using the NYPD’s Directed Accident Response Program (“DARP”), which requires NYPD officers to identify an appropri-

ate licensed tow trucking business to respond to the scene of the automobile accident and remove the damaged vehicles from the scene. Smith and Hassett bypassed DARP and directed damaged vehicles directly to the Business in exchange for thousands of dollars in cash bribe payments. Smith and Hassett continued to participate in the scheme until at least June 2017.

In November 2019, Smith resumed his participation in the scheme and continued to steer vehicles damaged in automobile accidents to the Business in exchange for cash. Beginning in January 2020, Smith discussed his plan to recruit Busch to participate in the scheme in advance of his retirement from the NYPD. In March 2020, Busch, at Smith’s invitation, met with Smith and the Individual and agreed to participate in the scheme.

Thereafter, Busch began steering vehicles damaged in automobile accidents to the Business in exchange for cash bribe payments, instead of utilizing DARP as required.

The Armed Drug Trafficking Scheme Beginning in January 2020, Smith sought opportunities from the Individual to transport illegal narcotics, in exchange for payment, upon Smith’s retirement from the NYPD. In June 2020, Smith met with two undercover law enforcement officers posing as narcotics traffickers to discuss his interest in participating in a scheme to traffic drugs and told them he could carry a firearm and his retired NYPD identification while he was transporting the drugs. In July 2020, Smith met with a third undercover law enforcement officer and accepted a bag containing what Smith believed to be a kilogram of heroin. Smith transported the bag to a location in Queens where he delivered it to another undercover law enforcement officer in exchange for a payment of approximately $1,200 in cash.

The Pharmacist’s Corner

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

BACK FITNESS — Your Pharmacist Can Help We are all spending much more time in front of computers and many electronic devices these days. Be it work, remote learning, social networking or pure entertainment, those hours add up to stress on the back and neck which can often lead to discomfort and pain.

We offer advice and treatment options to deal with the pain, and more importantly to try and prevent it.

These tips may keep you ahead of developing back pain: Support your back Adjust your chair to support your lower back, it will reduce the strain on your back. Get a chair which allows you to change the height, back position and tilt.

Ask your pharmacist for suggestions as to what the ideal chair should feature.

Adjust your chair When at your chair using the key¬board keep your wrists and forearms straight and level with the floor. This can help prevent repetitive strain injuries.

Rest your feet on floor Your feet should be flat on the floor.

Use a footrest if they’re not.

Place your screen at eye level Your screen should be directly in front of you. A good guide is to place the monitor about an arm’s length away, with the top of the screen roughly at eye level. You may need a stand.

Using the keyboard Place your keyboard in front of you

when typing. Leave a gap of about four to six inches at the front of the desk to rest your wrists between bouts of typ-ing.

Your wrists should be straight when using a keyboard. Keep your elbows vertical under your shoulder and right by your side.

Some people like to use a wrist rest to keep their wrists straight and at the same level as the keys.

Keep your mouse close Position and use the mouse as close to you as possible. A mouse mat with a wrist pad may help to keep your wrist straight and avoid awkward bending.

Make objects accessible Position frequently used objects, such as your telephone or stapler, within easy reach. Avoid repeatedly stretching or twisting to reach things.

Avoid phone strain If you spend a lot of time on the phone, try exchanging your handset for a headset. Repeatedly cradling the phone between your ear and shoulder can strain the muscles in your neck.

When preventative measures are not enough to stave off pain, talk with your pharmacist about over the counter pain preparations including hot and cold wraps and topical analgesics. There is a wide range of different preparations at various strengths that may prove success-ful in relieving your symptoms.

Until next week!

For your family’s prescription needs, please call

CROSS BAY CHEMIST at 718-659-9500 or 718-880-1644 157-02 Cross Bay Blvd. in Howard Beach: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm. Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. or 96-05 101st Ave. in Ozone Park: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm. Sunday: Closed.

Ariola, Civic Honor Area Bravest

City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) joined the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic on Tuesday to honor City Fire Department companies Engine 331 and Ladder 173 for service to the community.

Ariola thanked the FDNY for its “selfless dedication to our city.”

Disgraced former NYPD cop Robert Smith worked out of the 105th Precinct in Queens Village.

File Photo

Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 5

Adams Reflects on First 100 Days in Office in State of the City

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography

“We’ve been through a lot. We have struggled and survived,” Mayor Adams said.

Office

By Michael V. Cusenza Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday outlined an ambitious vision for the five boroughs in his first State of the City address, delivered at the historic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn.

In his remarks, the mayor reviewed his first 100 days in office and previewed his plans to promote an equitable recovery, lift up the city’s youth, invest in 21st century infrastructure, and create a safer and more just NYC. A busy Adams also unveiled a balanced, $99.7 billion Fiscal Year 2023 executive budget, which, he said, combines upstream investments with fiscally responsible measures, including budget reserves at $6.3 billion—the highest level in City history.

Highlights of Hizzoner’s first State of the City address include: CREATING A SAFER AND MORE JUST CITY Mayor Adams has repeatedly stressed that public safety and justice are the prerequisites to prosperity and must go hand in hand. In January, he rolled out his “Blueprint to End Gun Violence,” laying out concrete steps at the city, state, and federal level to dam the rivers that feed the sea of gun violence. The following month, he released the “Subway Safety Plan,” a multiagency effort in partnership with the state to address public safety concerns and connect unhoused people and those struggling with serious mental illness with the supports they need.

As part of the city’s effort to address the ongoing crisis of gun violence, the City Police Department in March began to deploy Neighborhood Safety Teams to the areas that account for 80 percent of all shootings citywide. As a whole, the NYPD has removed nearly 2,300 guns from the streets since Mayor Adams took office.

To build on these important steps, Adams on Tuesday announced additional resources for the Subway Safety Plan, including $55 million in FY23 to expand the Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division (B-HEARD) initiative — which deploys mental health professionals instead of law enforcement to respond in certain cases to people experiencing mental health crises — to Central Brooklyn, Eastern Queens, and currently uncovered areas in the South Bronx. The administration also plans to propose $171 million in FY23 to add 1,400 new Safe Haven and stabilization beds by mid-2023 to

help unsheltered New Yorkers transition off the streets and out of the subway system into more stable housing.

PROMOTING AN EQUITABLE RECOVERY More than two years after the first COVID-19 case was identified in New York City, the city continues to face an uneven recovery. Mayor Adams is committed to building an equitable, inclusive recovery for all New Yorkers — one that directly addresses the longstanding inequities that were exacerbated by the pandemic. Several weeks ago, he joined elected officials and community leaders to celebrate the enhancement of the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) in the state budget, fulfilling his campaign pledge to bolster the social safety net and expand services for working families in New York City. More than 800,000 families will benefit from this EITC increase, supported in part by a $250 million annual commitment by the city. And last month, the mayor unveiled his “Renew, Rebuild, Reinvent: A

city’s fresh produce. The funding, another key component of the economic blueprint, will help improve the surrounding infrastructure and neighborhood parks at the facility. Mayor Adams also announced $5 million in FY23 to help the City University of New York train students for the most indemand skills and connect them to good jobs at companies that are hiring, including high-growth sectors like life sciences, the green economy, technology, and advanced manufacturing.

LIFTING UP NYC YOUTH Adams said he’s committed to providing greater support for families and young people, who represent the future of New York City. Thanks to the administration’s leadership, Governor Hochul and state lawmakers agreed to historic investments in child care in the most recent state budget. In addition to committing $4 billion toward expanding affordable childcare for New Yorkers, new city tax incentives authorized by the state will spur the creation of up to 17,000 new child care seats in New York City.

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office

Hizzoner delivered his first State of the City address on Tuesday at the historic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn.

Blueprint for New York City’s Economic Recovery,” which proposes 70 concrete initiatives to revitalize the city’s economy and get New Yorkers back to work.

A key recommendation advanced in the report called for doubling down on investments in the burgeoning life sciences industry. To that end, Adams today announced a major new partnership with Taconic and DivcoWest, together with New York University, to bring new space to 455 First Avenue that will support cutting-edge research, entrepreneurial training programs, and workforce development. The city is also working to bring new space online at the Alexandria Center, completing the last of three life sciences towers that have anchored the industry for over a decade.

Together, these two projects will nearly double lab space in the Kips Bay neighborhood of Manhattan, helping cement it as a major hub for the life science industry in New York City.

In addition, the administration is committing $140 million in capital funds beginning in FY23 for the Hunts Point Produce Market, which supplies 25 percent of the 6 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

In order to ensure child care is affordable and accessible for working families in New York City, Mayor Adams announced that new rates will go into effect in June that will dramatically reduce the fees that eligible families currently pay for subsidized care. The administration is also committed to reducing the bureaucratic hurdles families face when seeking child care, which is why Mayor Adams also revealed that the first major application of the mayor’s proposed “MyCity” platform will be a single, unified application process for all subsidized child care options offered by the city.

Children of all ages in the city have been significantly impacted by the disruptions stemming from COVID-19. As New York City students continue to struggle with learning loss due to the pandemic, Mayor Adams is committing $101 million in FY23 for summer activities for 10,000 more K-12 students in the Summer Rising program, which provides hands-on summer learning and enrichment courses to strengthen students’ academic, social, and emotional skills. This investment brings the number

of slots funded by New York City Department of Youth and Community Development to 110,000, for a total program capacity of 210,000 slots.

Adams is also committed to giving students with learning disabilities the tools they need to succeed. Today, he unveiled an unprecedented investment of $7.4 million in FY23 to fund new dyslexia screening sites and literacy programs. Mayor Adams also announced $33 million for the New York City Department of Education to launch new career pathways programs starting this September focused on highgrowth sectors like health care and technology.

INVESTING IN 21ST-CENTURY INFRASTRUCTURE New York City’s built environment is constantly changing. As the city confronts new challenges, Mayor Adams believes the city must adopt a people-centered approach to infrastructure — especially for New Yorkers who have historically been underserved by critical infrastructure needs. Earlier this week, he announced a historic investment of $904 million over five years — nearly $580 million in capital funding, as well as expense funding that ramps up to more than $65 million annually, or $327 million over five years — to advance the goals laid out in the “NYC Streets Plan” and rapidly build out critical street safety and public transportation infrastructure.

Accessing affordable, quality housing consistently ranks among New Yorkers’ top concerns. That is why Mayor Adams announced that the city is making the largest-ever commitment to housing in the city’s history. The FY23 executive budget proposes $5 billion in capital funding to promote the creation and preservation of affordable housing. This includes investing in the New York City Housing Authority Permanent Affordability Commitment Together program, as well as funding major in-unit repairs at Gowanus Houses and Wyckoff Gardens that Mayor Adams advocated for as Brooklyn borough president.

Public spaces have become vital lifelines during the pandemic. Parks and green spaces not only provide important physical and mental health benefits but also are critical tools for promoting environmental justice. That’s why Adams’ FY2023 executive budget provides $488 million in capital funding for park-improvement projects, he noted, including planting 20,000 trees annually in the coming years to reduce citywide heat vulnerability, enhancing and adding new greenways in Brooklyn and Queens and rehabilitating critical infrastructure, including pools. This new investment — combined with other funding to enhance and expand green space across the city — represents a down payment on the mayor’s “One Percent for Parks” pledge and showcases his commitment to parks equity.

“The state of the city is strong. Because New Yorkers have never been stronger,” Adams said. “We’ve been through a lot. We have struggled and survived.”

Residents should participate in Bus Network Planning: Pol

File Photo

“[T]he only way the MTA will know what residents are looking for, what they need and what they want is if the people speak up,” Sen. Addabbo said.

By Michael V. Cusenza State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) this week urged his 15th Senatorial District constituents to participate in upcoming public workshops on the proposed new routes in the borough Bus Network Redesign plan.

The massive project is part of a larger effort to modernize NYC’s bus network and improve service borough by borough. New York City Transit and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority are taking a fresh look at the bus network, with the goal of meeting customers’ priorities including more reliable service, faster travel, better connections, and ease of use, the senator said.

The neighborhoods within the 15th District and the dates of the virtual public workshops are:

• Wednesday, May 4 for Community District 5: Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village, Glendale, Fresh Pond, and Liberty Park.

• Thursday, May 5 for Community District 6: Forest Hills and Rego Park.

• Monday, May 16 for Community District 9: Richmond Hill, Woodhaven, Ozone Park, and Kew Gardens.

• Wednesday, May 18 for Community District 10: Howard Beach, Ozone Park, South Ozone Park, Richmond Hill, Tudor Village, and Lindenwood.

• Thursday, June 2 for Community District 14: Breezy Point, Belle Harbor, Neponsit, Arverne, Bayswater, Edgemere, Rockaway, Rockaway Park, and Far Rockaway.

To join the virtual workshops visit: https:// mta.zoom.us/j/86541509211?pwd=Qk5MZ UpZa2k2SmRBMldtRUVmZnVzUT09 Meeting ID: 865 4150 9211. For individuals without a computer or smartphone, they can call into the virtual workshop at +1 9294362866,,86541509211#,,,,*625661591 1# US (New York).

Anyone that needs the information in another language can register for that service here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1F AIpQLScPM3MyWJGUZn4cEzl7IWQsZv0 rwB5RSswjGXptRNAXYT9OLg/viewform. “[T]he only way the MTA will know what residents are looking for, what they need and what they want is if the people speak up,” Addabbo added.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 7

8 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Customs Officers in Philly, NY and Cincinnati Collaborate to Capture Four Shipments of Cocaine

By Forum Staff United States Customs and Border Protection officers last month interrupted a trend in cocaine concealment after stopping four shipments of the white powder secreted inside the insulated walls of thermos cups on flights that originated in Jamaica, CBP officials announced Tuesday.

Each shipment consisted of four souvenir insulated thermos cups that were packed with tea bags, bagged spices or vaporizing ointment. Each shipment contained approximately 250-260 grams of cocaine for a total weight of more than

one kilogram, or more than 2.5 pounds.

The cocaine had an approximate street value of about $70,000.

The investigation continues.

On March 10, Philadelphia CBP officers inspected the first shipment of four thermos insulated cups from Montego Bay. Officers found that each insulated cup was filled with tea bags or spice bags and were unusually heavy. Officers drilled into the side wall of each cup and discovered a white powdery substance that field-tested positive for cocaine. This shipment was destined to an address in Philadelphia.

CBP officers then learned that three similar shipments from Jamaica were in Photo Courtesy of CBP Philadelphia

The combined seizures weighed more than 2.5 pounds and had a street value of about $70.000.

Photo Courtesy of CBP Philadelphia

Philly, NY, and Cincinnati CBP officers in March intercepted several shipments of cocaine from Jamaica.

transit through express consignment processing centers in Cincinnati, New York and again in Philadelphia, and flagged each shipment for officers in those locations: On March 11, Cincinnati CBP officers intercepted the second shipment of cocaine similarly concealed inside the insulated walls of four thermos cups that were destined to a different address in Philadelphia.

On March 15, CBP officers and narcotics detector dog Kincsem intercepted the third cocaine shipment in the Bronx. That parcel was destined to an address in the Bronx.

On March 16, Philadelphia CBP officers seized the last shipment of cocaine destined to an address in Stamford, Conn.

Also on March 15, Philadelphia CBP officers discovered 18 pounds of cocaine inside the cargo hold of a passenger flight that also arrived from Montego Bay. “These cocaine seizures perfectly illustrate how Customs and Border Protection officers across the country routinely collaborate to intercept shipments of dangerous drugs and force traffickers to work hard to change concealment tactics and supply routes,” said Joseph Martella, CBP’s area port director in Philadelphia. “Our communities expect us to stand a vigilant watch along our nation’s borders against the repeated smuggling attempts by drug trafficking organizations, and CBP vows to do just that.”

Man gets 18 Months in Prison for Tax Conspiracy

By Forum Staff A borough resident has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States, federal prosecutors announced Monday.

According to court documents and statements made in court, Richard Barker owned and operated a tax return preparation business under the names Tax Depot Inc., located in Brooklyn; and KPS Kam-

pant, Parkinson, Sinclair & Co. Inc., located in Elmhurst. From approximately 2012 through 2019, Barker conspired with other individuals to submit false tax returns to the Internal Revenue Service on behalf of clients. These tax returns included Forms 1099-OID that falsely reported financial institutions, creditors and other entities had withheld and paid taxes to the IRS on behalf of the clients, when in reality no such taxes had been withheld or paid. As a

result of these fictitious withholdings, the IRS paid the clients refunds they were not entitled to receive. Barker also filed false returns for himself based on the same 1099OID scheme and recruited at least one other individual to do the same. In total, Barker caused a tax loss to the IRS of more than $460,000.

In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Eric Komitee ordered Barker to serve two years of su-

Photo Courtesy of Google

Records show that one of Barker’s tax return preparation businesses—KPS Kampant, Parkinson, Sinclair & Co. Inc.—was located on Corona Avenue in Elmhurst.

Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace.

pervised release and to pay approximately $464,252 in restitution to the IRS. Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York made the announcement.

IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration investigated the case.

Photo Courtesy of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of New York

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 9

City to Save $13.7M through New Vehicle-Fleet Reduction Measure: Mayor

By Forum Staff Mayor Eric Adams on Monday announced a reduction of the City’s vehicle fleet by at least 855 vehicles in an effort to save taxpayer dollars and reduce carbon emissions.

The 4-percent reduction of the on-road fleet will focus on non-emergency vehicles, and will reduce the City’s fleet to its size in the Bloomberg administration. In all, the plan announced on Monday is expected to result in 5.13 million fewer miles driven per year—representing a 2,072 metric ton reduction in carbon dioxide emissions.

Reductions will be made based on vehicle usage data, tracked by DCAS’s sophisticated vehicle telematics system, which provides real-time insight into the entire city fleet and how it is being utilized. Vehicles that are underutilized will be prioritized for removal from the fleet. The fleet reduction will reduce agency vehicle acquisition budgets by an estimated $13.7 million — city savings that will be announced as part of the mayor’s upcoming Executive Budget.

The city of New York’s fleet currently consists of 24,526 on-road vehicles. Onroad vehicles include 9,579 (39.1 percent) emergency vehicles, 7,893 (32.2 percent) agency work trucks, 2,648 (10.8 percent) Sanitation trucks and sweepers, and 4,406 (18 percent) general use cars. The reduc-

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office

“Today, we are both saving New Yorkers’ tax dollars and taking action to cut carbon emissions,” Mayor Adams said.

tion will focus on general use cars and will not impact emergency vehicles or other specialized units that provide critical services to New Yorkers.

“We want to encourage New Yorkers to get out of their cars and use alternative forms of transportation — and the city must lead by example,” Adams said. “Today, we are both saving New Yorkers’ tax

dollars and taking action to cut carbon emissions. By reducing the City’s car fleet through a targeted, data-driven approach, we can achieve our sustainability goals, while simultaneously exercising greater fiscal responsibility. Promises made, promises kept.”

The changes will be completed by September 1, 2022, and the vehicles will be re-

moved from the fleet and auctioned off by December 31, 2022.

“Mayor Adams’ sensible right-sizing of the city fleet is a prudent step toward reining in the city’s spending and making government more efficient,” said City Councilman Bob Holden (D-Middle Village).

“Trimming the fat in the budget is long overdue and I support the mayor’s efforts to make our tax dollars go further.”

“We are encouraged by Mayor Adams downsizing the City’s fleet of cars while maintaining critical services that millions of New Yorkers depend on,” said Liam Blank, policy and communications manager, TriState Transportation Campaign. “We applaud the fleet reduction announced today, and we urge the city to continue exploring methods of taking cars off the road and incentivizing sustainable modes of transportation. This is a critical step in our ongoing mission to reduce traffic congestion, cut carbon emissions, and meet Vision Zero goals.”

Danny Harris, executive director, Transportation Alternatives, added, “Mayor Adams’ plan to reduce the size of the city’s vehicle fleet is an important step toward cleaner air, safe streets, and fighting climate change. Cutting the number of vehicles on our streets is key to reducing congestion and traffic violence, and we’re glad to see this administration’s commitment to get cars off the street.”

City Celebrates Historic Earth Day

By Michael V. Cusenza Over 300 blocks participated in the Open Streets program in 2022, just one of the highlights of this year’s Earth Day celebration in NYC. On Friday, the evening prior to Saturday’s festivities, Mayor Eric Adams City Department of Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez lauded 2022 Earth Day NYC’s plans.

New York City is home to the nation’s largest Open Streets program. This year’s expansion adds an additional 21 new Open Streets for a total of 156 locations covering over 300 city blocks operating throughout the 5 boroughs, all of which will be operating by summer 2022. Over eighty of the partners will be operating and/or have carfree programming in place by this weekend’s Car-Free Earth Day celebrations.

“This weekend, we will celebrate CarFree Earth Day in New York City, but I want to thank the dozens of community partners who will be celebrating the spirit of Earth Day for the many months ahead,” said Rodriguez. “Open Streets was one of the few bright spots of the pandemic, and I am proud that we have found a way to support more streets in more diverse communities in every borough that can be part of this incredible and permanent program.”

“On Earth Day and every day, we are showing the nation how to re-imagine our

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office

“Open Streets was one of the few bright spots of the pandemic, and I am proud that we have found a way to support more streets in more diverse communities in every borough that can be part of this incredible and permanent program,” DOT Commissioner Rodriguez said.

public space at scale and build a greener, healthier, and safer city,” Adams said. “My administration’s commitment to the Open Streets program remains steadfast. As we work hand-in-hand with our partners on the ground to give communities the space and programming they need, I look forward to all they will offer their neighbors

10 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

and our city.”

New York City’s Open Streets first launched in April 2020 as a way to make the city’s streets car-free. The Open Streets initiative has allowed New Yorkers to reclaim and repurpose city streets for alternative uses. Through DOT’s new Public Space Programming initiative, this season

will feature free activities in public spaces like plazas and Open Streets. Working together, these two programs help connect community organizations with local residents bringing arts, culture, fitness, and educational experiences to neighborhoods most in need. In 2021, the City Council voted to make the Open Streets program permanent, and DOT announced new investment in supporting community groups who wished to host an Open Street.

Over the last year, DOT has worked with elected officials, community partners, and local residents to identify both new and established locations where an Open Street would have greatest impact. This year, 156 Open Streets and over 300 New York City blocks are set to open for New Yorkers to enjoy.

"Open Streets bring local residents together, providing valuable public space for community-building activities and opportunities that strengthen our neighborhoods," said Speaker Adrienne Adams.

"The Council’s legislative efforts to expand this initiative permanently represent one way the City achieved long-term positive outcomes for New Yorkers during the unprecedented and challenging conditions forced upon us by the pandemic. We look forward to continuing to work with local communities and our colleagues in government to make this program more effective, enjoyable, and equitable.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 11

12 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

HOWARD BEACH HOWARD BEACH Hi-Rise Co-Op, 2ND Hi-Rise Condo 3rd fl Low Ranch, 6 rms, LD 2 bed, rms, Heritage House, 5 rms, FLOOR S5O 3 bedrms, full 3 bedrms, 2 new bths, top floor, just painted, basement, private drive, HOWARD BEACH

huge terr, hardwd flrs, new kit, totally renovated, Call Now !

HOARD BEACH

Corner 97 St &162 Ave, vacant land, 40x100, zoned for 1 family Call Now !

HOWARD BEACH

2 Fam det, 10 rms, 5 bedrms, 1 car gar pvt dr, updated kit & bath, lg yard, Call Now !

mint call now !

Call Now !

HOWARD BEACH

1 fam, det raised ranch, 8 rms, 3 bedrms, 2 bths, pvt drive, full bsmt, Call Now !

Hi-Rise 2nd fl, 5 rm, 2 bedrm, 2 bth, formal ding rm, updated kit & bth.

Call Now !

HOWARD BEACH

WOODHAVEN

Colonial 7 rms, 3 bedrms, full unfin bsmt asking only 658K

CALL NOW !

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 13

Legal Notices Liberty Essentials LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 12/07/2021. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 37-76 62nd St., APT C4, Woodside, NY 11377. General Purpose ROOSEVELT 7004 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/17/22.

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, 70-04 Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights, NY 11372. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

83-05 Doran Avenue LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 2/18/2022. Cty: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 70-16 53rd Ave., Maspeth, NY 11378. General Purpose.

Notice of Qualification of Wowee Zowee, LLC. Authority filed with NY Dept. of State: 3/11/22. Office location: Queens County. LLC formed in DE: 3/9/22. NY Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to the principal office address: 21-12 74th St., East Elmhurst, NY 11370. Cert. of Form. filed with DE Sec. of State, 401 Federal St., Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: all lawful purposes.

ASTORIA DREAMS 45TH STREET LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 4/07/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to LEONARD RIDINI, ESQ., c/o Westerman Sheehy Samaan & Gillespie, LLP, 90 Merrick Avenue, Suite 802,East Meadow, NY 11554. General Purpose.

ASTORIA DREAMS 44TH STREET LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 4/07/2022.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to LEONARD RIDINI, ESQ., c/o Westerman Sheehy Samaan & Gillespie, LLP, 90 Merrick Avenue, Suite 802,East Meadow, NY 11554.

General Purpose.

GRACIOUS OWL DESIGN, LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 03/09/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to LISA DICK, 6610 YELLOWSTONE BLVD., APT 2D, FOREST HILLS, NY, 11373, USA. PURPOSE: General Purpose.

MARY JANE SOLUTIONS LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 01/14/2022. Cty: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to MARY JANE SOLUTIONS LLC, PO BOX 863292, RIDGEWOOD, NY, 11386, USA. PURPOSE: General Purpose.

MEMENTO GROUP L.L.C., Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/31/2022. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 11-11 44th Drive, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

SUNNY 21, L.L.C. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/20/2022. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: SUNNY 21, LLC, 58-27 197TH ST., FRESH MEADOWS, NY, 11365, USA, Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

GEM HUNTING TRADING LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY)4/15/2022. Cty: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to GEM HUNTING TRADING LLC, 88-04 CORONA AVE, 1 FL, ELMHURST, NY, 11373, USA**. General Purpose.

CTSQ Asset LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 3/14/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 3636 Main St., #CS, Flushing, NY 11354. General Purpose.

SAPPHIRE CDS LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 2/10/22. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Daniel Sosa, 7849 221st St., Bayside, NY 11364. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

86-13 94th Street LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 2/18/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Warner Wai Jit Moy, 86-17 94th St., Woodhaven, NY 11421. General Purpose.

14 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

JANEL CAMPBELL NP IN FAMILY HEALTH, PLLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/18/21. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to THE PLLC, 112-16 176TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY, 11433, USA. General Purpose.

THE WALKER GROUP VENTURES, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 03/08/22.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to WAYNE BROWN, 130-16 228TH STREET, LAURELTON, NY, 11413, USA. General Purpose.

SIKDER TAXI 2 LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 4/18/2022. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 88-39 HOLLIS COURT BLVD, QUEENS VILLAGE, NY, 11427. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

K12DOE LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY)03/18/2022.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to K12DOE LLC, 248-25 NORTHERN BLVD, STE 1J-122, LITTLE NECK, NY, 11362, USA. General Purpose.

Easy Movements L.L.C., Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 4/6/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Imran Imtiaz Khan, 111-34 130th St., South Ozone Park, NY 11420. General Purpose Notice of formation of EIGHT NYC HOLDINGS LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 4/21/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to:4148 68th St., 3/F, Woodside, NY 11377.

Purpose: any lawful act.

For the best service and prices for classified ads and legal notices Call The Forum 718-845-3221

BROOKLYN SPECTACULAR 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH HOME IN THE HEART OF BROOKLYN. THIS HOME FEATURES KITCHEN WITH GRANITE COUNTER TOPS, LIVING/DINING WITH ACCESS TO BACKYARD. BRAND NEW BATHROOM ON THE 2ND FLOOR. PRIVATE DRIVEWAY, NEW WINDOWS (WARRANTY TRANSFERABLE) & HEATER ONLY 1 YEAR OLD.

OZONE PARK MINT 5 FAMILY PLUS STOREFRONT IN GREAT LOCATION. RENT FOR STORE: $3000, 1ST FLOOR APT: $1200, 2ND FLOOR APT: $2000, 2ND FLOOR APT: $1500, 3RD FLOOR APT: $2000, 3RD FLOOR APT: $1500= $150,960/YEAR INCOME. EXPENSES: FUEL: $4000, ELECTRIC: $600, MAINT/REPAIRS: $2000, INSURANCE: $4695, TAXES: $14,388, EXTERMINATOR: $780, WATER: $3000.

LINDENWOOD MINT LOBBY LEVEL 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH CO-OP. MOVE RIGHT IN! 290 SHARES, $5/SHARE FLIP TAX.

LINDENHURST GREAT STARTER HOME IN THE HEART OF LINDENHURST!!

4 BEDROOMS, 1.5 BATHS, LR, DR, EIK, ABOVE GROUND POOL, 40X100 LOT.

OZONE PARK

MINT 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH 2ND FLOOR APT WITH TERRACE. FULL CAPACITY WASHER AND DRYER. ALL PELLA WINDOWS, KOEHLER BATHROOM FIXTURES, HARDWOOD FLOORS, STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES, DINING ROOM, LIVING ROOM, LARGE 8X12 STORAGE UNIT, SECURITY SYSTEMS, GATED COMMUNITY WITH PARKING SPOT.

HOWARD BEACH MINT HI-RANCH, NEWLY RENOVATED IN THE LAST 2.5 YEARS. 4 BEDROOMS, 2.5 BATHS, NEW AC/HEATER, 200 AMP ELECTRIC, NEW ROOF, NEW WINDOWS, MUST SEE WON'T LAST!!

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 15 • APRIL 28 2022 | 15

16 APRIL 28, 2022 • Number 15 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP