THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | AUGUST 12, 2021

VOL. 21 • NUMBER 24 • AUGUST 12, 2021

ANDREW-INED His Legacy Obliterated, Once Pugnacious Cuomo Relents, Resigns as Governor of NY

See Story on Page 2

Disgraced former Gov. Andrew Cuomo stepped down on Tuesday. The Hollis native will be succeeded

by Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul.

Photos Courtesy of Kevin Coughlin/Office of the Governor

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 12, 2021 | 1

Beleaguered Cuomo Resigns; Hochul Set to Lead Empire State

By Michael V. Cusenza Governor Andrew Cuomo finally relented this week, announcing Tuesday in a long, defensive speech that he would be stepping down after a report recently released by the State Attorney General’s Office concluded that Cuomo did sexually harass multiple women — including former and current State employees — by engaging in unwanted groping, kissing, and hugging, and making inappropriate comments.

Further, the governor and his senior staff took actions to retaliate against at least one former employee for coming forward with her story, AG Tish James’s special investigators noted. Finally, the Executive Chamber fostered a “toxic” workplace that enabled “harassment to occur and created a hostile work environment.”

“Now, you know me—I’m a New Yorker, born and bred,” Cuomo, who raised in Hollis, said.“I am a fighter, and my instinct is to fight through this controversy because I truly believe it is politically motivated. I believe it is unfair and it is untruthful, and I believe that it demonizes behavior that is unsustainable for society. If I could communicate the facts through the frenzy, New Yorkers would understand. I believe that, but when I took my oath as governor, then it changed. I became a fighter, but I became a fighter for you, and it is your best interests that I must serve.

This situation by its current trajectory will generate months of political and legal controversy. That is what is going to happen.

That is how the political wind is blowing. It will consume government. It will cost taxpayers millions of dollars. It will brutalize people.

“The State Assembly yesterday outlined weeks of process that will then lead to months of litigation,” Cuomo continued,“time and money that government should spend managing COVID, guarding against the Delta variant, reopening upstate, fighting gun violence and saving New York City. All that time would be wasted. This is one of the most challenging times for government in a generation. Government really needs to function today. Government needs to perform. It is a matter of life and death — government operations, and wasting energy on distractions is the last thing that state government should be doing. And I cannot be the cause of that.”

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie called the investigation and its findings “a tragic chapter in our State’s history.”

“I am heartbroken,” the Bronx elected official added in a statement delivered Monday. “Let me be clear: no one should have to endure the type of behavior detailed in the attorney general’s report.

We are at a historic moment in our state’s modern history. For the first time in more

Photo Courtesy of Don Pollard

“I am a fighter, and my instinct is to fight through this controversy because I truly believe it is politically motivated,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo said of the AG’s report.

than 100 years, the Assembly is undertaking an impeachment investigation of a sitting governor. Chairman Lavine, the members of the Judiciary Committee – and my Majority colleagues – understand the gravity of this

situation that we find ourselves in today. Future generations will look to us and how we conducted ourselves in this moment.”

Lieutenant Gov. Kathy Hochul will succeed Cuomo in the Executive Chamber.

AG’s Office Blasts Cuomo Team’s Response to Sexual Harassment Report

By Michael V. Cusenza Fabien Levy, press secretary and senior advisor to State Attorney General Tish James, released on Friday the following statement after Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s team attacked the credibility of the 11 women who came forward with allegations of sexual harassment against the governor, as well as

the independence and credibility of the independent investigators: “After multiple women made accusations that Governor Cuomo sexually harassed them, the governor, himself, requested that Attorney General James oversee an independent investigation. The independent investigators selected are widely respected professionals, recognized for their legal and

State Attorney General Tish James

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File Photo

investigatory ability. To attack this investigation and attempt to undermine and politicize this process takes away from the bravery displayed by these women.

“There will be a rolling production of interview transcripts made available to the state Assembly, which will be redacted as needed.

“There are 11 women whose accounts have been corroborated by a mountain of evidence. Any suggestion that attempts to undermine the credibility of these women or this investigation is unfortunate.”

In a letter to James, Cuomo’s lawyers ripped the AG’s Office’s special investigators for what the attorneys characterized as their investigation’s “lack of neutrality and impartiality.”

“At today’s press conference, you reported that you conducted 178 witness interviews,” Cuomo lawyers Paul Fishman, MitraHormozi, and Dipanwita Deb Amar wrote in their missive. “In situations like this, where there were so many interviews in such a compressed time, and by different members of the investigative team, there were bound to be errors and inconsistencies in the transcripts as well as in the report that quotes and paraphrases the testimony. As a result, we remain concerned that the report

contains additional inaccuracies and fails to present the evidence in a balanced and fair manner. And it is also problematic that witnesses and their counsel still do not have access to their own transcripts and you still apparently have no plans to provide them.”

The three counselors used the letter’s conclusion to further lambast James and her Office’s handling of the investigation.

“Draping yourselves in the cloak of independence, you pursued a process that was designed to make you the only ones with any visibility into the evidence. But merely calling an investigation independent is not an excuse or an opportunity to prevent those who are being investigated from having a truly meaningful way to contest unadjudicated findings and conclusions. The witnesses, the subjects of the investigation, and the public deserve more.”

Cuomo outside counsel Rita Glavin has been on a media tour defending her embattled client also by blasting the State AG. “The governor deserves to be treated fairly, and he must be. That did not happen here.

This was one-sided and he was ambushed,” Glavin said on Friday. “There’s a rule of law in this country. I believe in it. Give us the opportunity to have the evidence and we’re going to give our response. Thank you.”

DOT, NYPD Tout ‘Bicycle Safe Passage’

One of the largest and busiest borough intersections is Yellowstone Boulevard and Queens Boulevard.

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Let us begin helping you with a free consultation.

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tions and between median malls • New stop controls at slip ramp access points to allow for safer pedestrian and bicycle The City Department of Transportation and crossings • Elongated left-turn bays for simpler, safer NYPD on Thursday announced the continuation of the “Bicycle Safe Passage” enforcement initiative to turns and better vehicle processing The project will also include elements to preprotect cyclists in bike lanes, along with a new series of bike helmet giveaways. Thursday’s announce- serve access to local businesses in this mixed-use ment took place along Queens Boulevard in For- residential and commercial area, including: • New truck loading zones and additional est Hills, where DOT has begun work on the final hours at existing commercial loading zones phase of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s signature redesign, as • Adding parking in commercial areas near the administration works to install a record 30 miles Ascan Avenue and Austin Street of protected bike lanes in 2021.

The ongoing Queens Boulevard redesign is part NYPD announced its renewed effort to reduce bicycle-related injuries and fatalities, in which all of a plan announced by de Blasio and DOT Commis77 precincts will focus on infractions like block- sioner Hank Gutman to build on last year’s protected bike-lane ing bike lanes, installation, double parkwith a record ing, failure to 30 miles of yield to peprotected destrians and bike lanes in cyclists and 2021. occupying “Bike no standing lanes are an zones. important D O T part of the crews have betransportagun work on tion system the fourth and here in New final phase of the Queens Protective helmet gifts: After suspending them in person during the pandemic, the DOT has York City, B o u l e v a r d re-distributed bicycle helmets, 29,730 of which were distributed by the DOT in 2019. New and it is vital that we protected bike York State law requires that all 14 riders years or younger have helmets. enforce the lane project -rules around those lanes meant to protect our cyfrom Yellowstone Boulevard to Union Turnpike.

Under the de Blasio Administration, Queens Bou- clists,” said State Sen. JoeAddabbo, Jr. (D-Howlevard, once known as the “Boulevard of Death,” ard Beach). “A great way to help protect cyclists has seen injuries decline by 18 percent and severe is through the DOT’s helmet giveaway program. injuries decline by 38 percent; since 2016, the I applaud the DOT for bringing this life-saving Boulevard has seen a total of five traffic fatalities initiative back. I encourage all cyclists to visit one of the helmet giveaways to get themselves a free compared to 22 traffic deaths in 1997 alone.

As with the previous three phases of the redesign helmet to protect them while on the road.”

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng(D-Flushing) added, in 2015, 2016 and 2017, Phase 4 includes new Protected Bike Lanes and pedestrian path along the me- “Providing helmets to cyclists and renewing efforts dians between the service road and the main road- to keep pedestrians and bike riders out of harm’s way, along with many other safety improvements for way are critical steps in preventing tragedies such as serious injuries and fatalities.Safety must always be pedestrians and cyclists, including: • New and improved crosswalks at intersec- the top priority.”

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 12, 2021 | 3

Katz to File Joint Motion with Defense to Vacate Convictions, Spring Man Incarcerated for 32 Years

By Forum Staff Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Monday that she will file a joint motion with the defense to vacate the conviction of Carlton Roman, who has been incarcerated for 32 years for the murder of Lloyd Witter and attempted murder of Jomo Kenyatta.

The motion is based on newly discovered witnesses and evidence which contradict significant aspects of the trial testimony used to convict Roman.

According to court records, on March 16, 1989, Lloyd Witter and Jomo Kenyatta were shot multiple times at a home in Jamaica, resulting in Witter’s death and Kenyatta’s permanent confinement to a wheelchair.

Paul Anderson lived at the house and was found by the police outside, bound with telephone wire and handcuffed, and in close proximity to Witter’s body.

Anderson and Kenyatta identified Roman, a close friend of Witter’s, as one of the shooters and the ringleader of the group.

After his arrest, police found no forensic or ballistic evidence linking Roman, whose alibi was corroborated by his girlfriend, to the shooting. There was also no DNA or fingerprint evidence linking Roman to the shooting.

Roman was tried, convicted and sentenced to 43 and 1/3 years for the crime

based solely on the testimony of those two witnesses.

Roman, at the time a recent college graduate and honors student with no criminal record, testified at trial that he was not involved with the shooting.

He submitted his case for re-investigation to the Queens DA’s Office in 2013 and 2018, but the convictions were left unchanged.

DA Katz’s Conviction Integrity Unit began its investigation in April 2020.

According to the motion to be filed in court, CIU’s investigation uncovered new evidence that would have changed the outcome of the trial: • A 2019 recantation by Paul Anderson in which he stated Roman was not one of the shooters and that he falsely accused Roman. Anderson confirmed that Roman was not one of the assailants and that he had not seen Roman at his house the entire day of the crime. During the course of the initial police investigation and CIU investigation, Anderson provided at least 6 distinctly different versions of how the shooting occurred—most are inconsistent with each other and the facts of the crime.

• Three new witnesses who undermine the credibility of the trial testimony of the Paul Anderson and Jomo Kenyatta.

• A retired police officer who received and documented Anderson’s initial description of the shooters, none of which

File Photo

“When we find miscarriages of justice, we do everything in our power to correct them quickly,” DA Katz said.

fit Roman. No testimony or evidence offered at trial by either party referenced these initial descriptions provided by Anderson.

• A new witness, who was friends with Anderson, Kenyatta, and Roman, described the narcotics activity of Anderson and Kenyatta – and Kenyatta’s violent nature and profession as a drug boss, which provide substantial motive for others to have committed the crime.

• Another new witness who described the friendly relationship between

the deceased victim and Roman and contradicted the trial testimony regarding statements supposedly made by Roman around the time of his arrest.

• New evidence further undermines confidence in the testimony of Kenyatta. Kenyatta falsely minimized his criminal history at trial and used various aliases to conceal his criminal activity.

“When we find miscarriages of justice, we do everything in our power to correct them quickly,” Katz noted.

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DiNapoli to NYC: Bolster Reserves as Economy Rebounds

Photo Courtesy of Comptroller DiNapoli’s Office

“The City must balance the expansion of services now with the ability to fund these services in the future,” Comptroller DiNapoli said.

By Forum Staff Stronger-than-projected year-end budgetary results, fueled by extraordinary one-time federal relief, will mostly be used to fund new spending, with a smaller portion set aside to build up reserves, according to an analysis of New York City’s financial plan recently released by State Comptroller TomDiNapoli.

In June, the city adopted its $98.7 billion fiscal year 2022 budget. Excluding federal aid, the city will fund about $2 billion more in spending (excluding funds set aside for reserves) than was planned in the proposed executive budget in April. This is significantly higher than traditional spending increases at this point in the fiscal year.

Since the release of the April financial plan, the city’s short-term financial condition has continued to improve due to better-than-projected revenues, reflecting continued strength in personal income and business tax collections in FY 2021 of $2.1 billion. These revenues come after $15.2 billion in one-time federal relief was incorporated into the city’s April financial plan.

The city used the unanticipated revenue, since April, to increase agency expenditures for FY 2022 by nearly $1.5 billion, more than half of which is spending for new needs ($466 million) and the temporary restoration of planned savings initiatives ($315 million). By FY 2025, the city will still incur more than $1 billion in recurring costs for proposed new services that are supported with nonrecurring federal resources.

City-funded spending growth will reach 7.9 percent in FY 2022 (excluding reserves) to reach $72.6 billion. The growth rate is projected to slow to 2.5 percent in the out-years (excluding labor savings and reserves), but

city-funded spending will still grow to $78.3 billion by FY 2025 and does not include out-year funding for new recovery programs and restorations that may be popular and continue past the current budget year.

The choice of continuing these programs will fall to the next administration and the City Council, as they consider their own initiatives to manage shifting service demands.

DiNapoli has encouraged the City to use its federal relief for one-time recovery initiatives and to avoid new recurring spending without identifying resources to pay for it.

The city also made a first-of-its-kind $500 million deposit into its Revenue Stabilization Fund (i.e., a rainy-day fund), bringing the fund to $1 billion. It also maintained a general reserve of $300 million in FY 2022.

In total, the city’s reserves stand at $5.1 billion when including the balance of $3.8 billion held in the Retiree Health Benefits Trust, higher than at the beginning of FY 2021 but still lower than prior to the pandemic ($6.1 billion).

The June financial plan assumes the city ended FY 2021 with an estimated surplus transfer of $6.1 billion, which will be used to prepay debt service in FY 2022, nearly $2.5 billion more than was anticipated in the April plan. The surplus transfer, which can act as a fiscal buffer, was the highest on record, and will need to be restored to provide future fiscal relief.

“The City must balance the expansion of services now with the ability to fund these services in the future. Recurring spending should match recurring revenue so the city can close its gaps and build back reserves,” DiNapoli said.“Taking these actions should help mitigate future uncertainties so the city may have greater flexibility down the road.”

The Pharmacist’s Corner

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

BE PREPARED: EMERGENCY PREP NEEDED NOW MORE THAN EVER Emergency preparedness might not seem like a topic for a pharmacist to advise on, but in remembering Sandy and now dealing with the past, present and future of Covid-19, taking care of your meds and making provisions for decreased availability are now in the forefront of our safety.

We are in a season where storms can arise and are often accompanied by rain and strong winds, which remindsus that it doesn’t take much to down power lines and complicate an already difficult situation.

Emergency situations force us to abandon our routines and that is a dangerous step especially where medications are concerned.

Often left out of people’s emergency plans, lost or damaged medication can be a lifethreatening situation for storm related situations or those involving Covid.

We don’t know when disaster may strike, so it’s important to be prepared and to include your prescription medications in your plans.Here are some tips to be prepared: Make a medication list: Keep an updated list of all medications, dosages and phone numbers for your doctors and pharmacies in a waterproof bag or container.

Carry your prescription card: Keep your health insurance or prescription-drug benefit card with you at all times, it can help you obtain an emergency supply of any lost or damaged medication.

Order early: Reorder as soon as you are able. Don’t let your prescriptions stockpile. Make sure you always have enough on hand,it could be many days before you are able to get it.

Keep your medications together: Keep medications in original containers with original labels and place prescription bottles in a waterproof bag or container.

Prepare for special needs: If your medication requires refrigeration or electronic equipment, have plans for temporary storage and administration.

Make a plan: Discuss your medication disaster plan with your doctor, especially if your medication has special shipping or electronic equipment requirements. Also discuss plans for your child’s medication with your child’s day care provider or school.

Maintain an emergency healthcare kit: Stock a supply kit with any nonprescription medications you may need such as pain relievers, cold medications and antacids.

Finally, if you experience an emergency situation, it’s important to check that your medication hasn’t changed--did it get wet?

Does it smell different? If you’re unsure-ask your pharmacist! And never skip or make up doses without consulting your pharmacist or doctor.

Until next week!

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Resorts World Welcomes New Hotel

Community leaders and elected officials on Friday lauded the grand opening of the Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World New York.

The new eight-story hotel features 400 residential-inspired guestrooms and premium suites. Its centerpiece, according to the casino, is a grand lobby,built for art exhibits, events and musical performances, that connects the hotel with Resorts World New York City.

Welcome to the community!

Photo Courtesy of Borough President Richards’s Office

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 12, 2021 | 5

De Blasio Unveils Plan to ‘Save and Reimagine’ BQE

By Michael V. Cusenza Mayor Bill de Blasio and Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Hank Gutman today released a comprehensive plan to extend the life of the BrooklynQueens Expressway (BQE) cantilever for at least another 20 years, while reimagining the corridor for a long-term future with less reliance on large, diesel trucks. The four-part plan focuses on preserving the structure; executing immediate and ongoing maintenance; expanding monitoring and enforcement; and developing a long-term, community-based vision for the entire corridor.

Hizzoner’s plan is built on four pillars: Preserving the Structure DOT has identified new ways to provide at least two more decades of life on the BQE from Sands Street to Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn. These methods include: Stopping water infiltration Preservation methods will stop water infiltration to slow down corrosion. These methods will mitigate the intrusion of water into the structure by addressing the joints, improving drainage, and reintroducing waterproofing. This effort will be combined with rigorous, ongoing maintenance.

Shifting lane markings Starting on Aug. 30 and as recommended by the Expert Panel convened by the City

in 2019, DOT will shift lane markings on the BQE along a half-mile segment (approximately from Atlantic Ave to the Brooklyn Bridge) from three lanes in each direction to two. DOT will replace current pavement markings of three sub-standard width lanes with two wider lanes and a shoulder, which will also allow for improved entry lanes at Atlantic Avenue. This will reduce weight along a critical segment of the structure, make the roadway safer, and reduce delays caused by breakdowns and collisions.

Monitoring and managing traffic • DOT will launch a comprehensive traffic management and monitoring plan, as well as a neighborhood protection plan to minimize disruption to motorists and nearby residents.

• The City will install “weigh-in-motion” technology to automatically fine overweight trucks, which put undue strain on the structure. The NYPD has already increased weight enforcement in recent months; summonses have increased up to five-fold since February.

• Once per month, NYPD will surge enforcement even further, with extra units increasing efforts over several days at a time.

Immediate and Ongoing Maintenance DOT will complete its ongoing concrete and rebar repairs on the Hicks Street retaining wall this year. Work on two deck spans

Photo Courtesy of Susan Watts

Comptroller Stringer said he’s “encouraged by the corridor-long community planning process that, if implemented meaningfully, will engage New Yorkers from Queens to Staten Island in re-envisioning how we move as a city.”

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View of the BQE from Hoyt Avenue in Astoria.

showing faster signs of deterioration will begin next year.

Expanding Monitoring The City has installed sensors along the BQE to continuously monitor the structure’s health. Preliminary results will be available later this summer; full results should be available by next spring. These sensors will provide a real time picture of how the structure is behaving under traffic.

Developing a Long-Term Vision • Throughout the summer and fall, the City will engage affected communities from Staten Island to Queens, including businesses and the freight industry, on a corridor-wide vision for the long-term future of the BQE. • As discussed in Delivering New York: A Smart Truck Management Plan for New York City, the City will better manage the last leg of the freight supply chain, especially during the most congested times of day, by incentivizing off-hour deliveries, freight consolidation, and cargo bike deliveries. The plan also outlined ways the City will promote and incentivize the use of safer, cleaner vehicles and technology by expanding the NYC Clean Truck Program.

• By working with freight and distribution companies, the City can make significant shifts from truck to water or rail movement of goods (up to 20 million truck miles eliminated annually) to diminish congestion and better air quality.

“This plan is designed to address current safety and structural concerns about the 70-year old roadway, while reimagining not only its future purpose, but how freight is moved in this city in the 21st century,” said DOT Commissioner Hank Gutman.

“Brooklyn's only interstate highway, the BQE-278 corridor will cost billions to repair, reimagine and replace, and federal infrastructure funding will be key. But we have to get it right. Buying time now -- by making needed repairs, lessening the heavy loads and putting in place ongoing monitoring to ensure it remains safe -- is crucial as we engage communities along the corridor to find the best answers for a 21st Century solution. I want to thank the

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Fletcher

Mayor and DOT Commissioner for a path forward, and my state elected colleagues Assemblywoman Jo Anne Simon and Senator Brian Kavanagh for legislation to enforce overweight truck rules and to begin a new governance model to ensure better state, city and federal collaboration on the task of transforming the BQE. We all need to work together to shift how freight is moved. We can build on strategies for lighter more environmentally friendly vehicles and take advantage of the USDOT MARADdesignated East Coast Marine Highway to increase waterborne options and develop green ports and rail connections which will go a long way in environmental and infrastructure dividends. Government must work together at all levels to make it happen and I want to thank the City for initiating the collaboration across agencies and levels of government,” said U.S. Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan).

City Comptroller Scott Stringer praised the mayor’s vision.

"The Brooklyn-Queens Expressway has blighted New York City for decades, dividing and dehumanizing neighborhoods while spewing toxic pollution into our lungs and generating oppressive noise levels for all those who live and work in its vicinity. Today’s announcement to scale back the BQE, as I have long advocated, is a positive first step toward ending the harmful legacy of this roadway and finally creating the flexibility and space to comprehensively reimagine a pedestrian-friendly transit and infrastructure network for the future.

“I am also encouraged by the corridor-long community planning process that, if implemented meaningfully, will engage New Yorkers from Queens to Staten Island in re-envisioning how we move as a city. A real planning vision for the corridor, rather than a piecemeal rehabilitation, is the best hope we have to tap into the federal and state investment that our transit infrastructure so desperately needs.

“We must seize this opportunity to pave a green path forward for our city – one that puts people over cars and public space over pollution.”

ARIOLA CAMPAIGN HEADQUARTERS OPENS FAITH TALK Pastor Stephen Roser Howard Beach Assembly of God Why preach on hard work when everybody is thinking about vacation? That question plagued me as I gave this past Sunday’s sermon, “The High Cost of Following Jesus.”

But the youth of our church were an excellent illustration of the sacrificial service for which my message called. At the height of this vacation season, they taught our children, handled the livestream, and assisted in our nursery. One of our young men, I learned, took time this past week to mow the lawn of our church’s recently-widowed neighbor.

I would rather see a sermon than preach one any time.

The text for the sermon was 2 Timothy 2:1-7, where the follower of Christ is compared to a “hardworking farmer who should be the first to receive a share of the harvest” (verse 6).

“Today I was excited to join with friends, neighbors and fellow community leaders to cut the ribbon on our new campaign headquarters,” Ariola said. “We will move our district and our city forward with common sense, together.”

Spiritual growth results from cultivating the field of your character. Love, joy, peace, forbearance, and self-control are defined by the Bible as “the fruit of the Spirit.” Just as a farmer who merely sows his fields and neglects them until harvest will not prosper in his business, a believer who fails to give diligent attention to prayer, church attendance, and service to others cannot grow spiritually.

City Council candidate for the 32nd past Saturday at her campaign headquarUnlike other professions, successful farming depends as much upon sweat as it does upon skill.

Council District JoannAriola, kicked off a ters located at 158-14 Cross Bay Blvd. in Take no vacations from working in your spiritual field. well-attended ribbon cutting ceremony this Howard Beach.

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Beware of Phony COVID-19 Vaccination Cards: NY AG

By Forum Staff State Attorney General Tish James on Friday issued an alert to protect New Yorkers from the dangers of fake coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination cards. The sale or distribution of blank or fraudulently-completed vaccination cards to individuals who have not actually received a vaccine poses a serious threat to the health of New York communities, and will impede the progress that has been made in combating COVID-19. Falsifying vaccine cards and records, as well as the unauthorized use of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services seals, also violate various federal and New York state laws and is subject to civil and criminal enforcement.

COVID-19 vaccines are now available to all New Yorkers 12 years of age and older, and must be administered free of charge. To find a State-operated vaccination site, visit the State’s COVID-19 vaccine tracker website: covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/. Other vaccination sites can be found online.

Legitimate CDC vaccination cards are provided to individuals once they receive the COVID-19 vaccine. If an individual receives the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines — which require two doses — they will receive a vaccination card after their first dose that will be updated after the second dose. Those getting the Johnson & Johnson vaccine will

receive their vaccination card after their single dose. New Yorkers are urged not to share pictures of this card online or on social media, or to at least blur out private information (date of birth, vaccination lot number, etc.). Scammers can use New Yorkers’ personal information to steal their identity, and use pictures to create fake cards.

New Yorkers can access proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result digitally on their smartphone using one of the two Excelsior Pass apps, which are available for free from the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. Use of the Excelsior Pass apps are voluntary, and with these apps, New Yorkers can easily retrieve and store a digital form of vaccine records or negative test results and avoid misplacing or damaging their vaccination card. New Yorkers can learn more about the Excelsior Pass apps online.

“As the Delta variant becomes more prominent, it is more important than ever for New Yorkers to be vaccinated against COVID-19,” James said. “Not only do fake and fraudulently-completed vaccination cards violate federal and state laws and the public trust, but they also put the health of our communities at risk and potentially prolong this public health crisis. I strongly urge New Yorkers to reject these fake vaccination cards and get the COVID-19 vaccine, so that we can move forward from this pandemic and return to normalcy as soon as possible.”

Photo Courtesy of the Office of the Governor

New Yorkers can access proof of a COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result digitally on their smartphone using one of the two Excelsior Pass apps.

Any New Yorker that believes they Office of the Attorney General by callhave been a victim of a COVID-19 vac- ing (800) 771-7755 or visiting ag.ny. cination card scam should contact the gov.

Mayor Applauds Businesses that have Adopted Vaccine Mandates

By Forum Staff Mayor Bill de Blasio on Wednesday applauded more than 30 New York City businesses for requiring proof of vaccination for entry.

The vaccine requirements, first unveiled by the administration as the “Key to NYC” program in early August, officially take effect during the week of Aug. 16 for indoor dining, entertainment, and fitness facilities across the five boroughs, Hizzoner noted.

The businesses already adopting vaccine requirements include: • Amor Y Amargo • Avant Garden • Bossa Nova Civic Club • Cadence • City Winery • Dame • Death & Co • Dirt Candy • Etérea • Felix Storch • Forsythia • Gertie • Ilili • Jeju Noodle • Ladybird • Leland • Leyenda • Llama San • Nowadays

• Proletariat • PUBLIC Hotel • Related • RXR Realty • Soda Club • Tannat • The Bell House • The Durst Organization • The Pedal House • The Queensboro • Union Hall • Unter • Yellow Rose According to the administration, acceptable proof of vaccination includes at least three options: a CDC-issued vaccination card, the New York State Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office Excelsior Pass, and the NYC COVID “Mass vaccination is the only way to stop the spread—and these businesses are giving New Yorkers more reasons Safe App, which allows those vaccinated than ever to protect themselves and their communities,” Mayor de Blasio said. out of New York State to show proof of their status. More details on requirements will be announced next week.

“Early adopters of the Key to NYC program are public health heroes. Their leadership and fast action sends a powerful message: New Yorkers will do everything in our power to keep each other safe and defeat COVID-19,” de Blasio said. “Mass vaccination is the only way to stop the spread—and these businesses are giving New Yorkers more reasons than ever to protect themselves and their communities. I’m proud to Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office stand with them.”

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The Queensboro restaurant in Jackson Heights requires proof of vaccination for entry.

Reputed Members of Queensbridge, Ravenswood Gangs Indicted

By Forum Staff More than two-dozen suspects, alleged members of warring gang factions within the Queensbridge and Ravenswood public housing developments in Long Island City, have been indicted by a borough grand jury on a slew of charges, including murder, attempted murder, attempted assault, and criminal possession of a weapon. All 28 individualshave been charged with conspiracy to commit murder and possession of illegal firearms, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Thursday.

The defendants are charged in a 141-count indictment. Two of the defendants are accused of carrying out the brazen, broad daylight killing of schoolteacher George Rosa. The 53-year-old victim was walking his dog near the Queensbridge Houses when he was struck by a stray bullet after two alleged gang members from the Ravenswood Houses shot at and missed a Queensbridge foe on July 25, 2020. Rosa died just over a month later from the wound.

Seven other people were also shot in and around these public houses and recovered from the injuries.

According to the indictment: • The defendants are allegedly members or associates of one of three large rival groups/gangs operating in and around Long

Island City and Astoria: Jet Blue and the MakkBallers in Queensbridge and Money the Motivation/Obligated to Money (MTM/OTM) in Ravenswood, each of which has its own affiliations with other groups/gangs in the area.

• Members and associates of the two Queensbridge groups, Jet Blue and MakkBallers, are accused of regularly conspiring to commit and participating in criminal, violent acts against each other in order to assert their dominance within the housing development.

• In addition to the rivalry between Jet Blue and MakkBaller members, a separate feud between Queensbridge factions and Ravenswood gang members allegedly resulted in violent, criminal activity, including at least two homicides – the July 25, 2020, shooting of George Rosa, and the asyet-unsolved Aug. 9, 2020, killing of MagdySaleh, a MakkBaller from Queensbridge.

• It was common practice for members and associates of one group to travel to territory controlled by another, typically in a vehicle, to seek out rival gang members to target, a process referred to as “spinning” or “spinning the block.” These alleged acts of violence between rival gang members were typically precipitated by such “spinning.” It was also part of the conspiracies for members and associates to purchase, possess,

“Gang warfare will not become the norm in Queens County,” DA Katz said.

transport, and keep readily available loaded firearms and ammunition.

• As part of the conspiracies, gang members and associates used code words and phrases to hide the alleged criminal nature of their communication and to avoid detection and apprehension by members of law enforcement. Among those code words and phrases were various references to firearms, such as “jackie,” “jumanji,” “shorty,” “shit,” “girl,” “grip,” “heat” and “bitch.”

Photo Courtesy of DA Katz’s Office

• It was also part of the conspiracies for the defendants to communicate with gang members and associates on behalf of incarcerated members in order to convey messages, orders and other directives to members on the street. Communications with incarcerated gang members and associates was in coded, guarded and cryptic language, in order to avoid detection and apprehension by members of law enforcement.

Bronx Man Charged with Shooting into MTA Bus in Jamaica

Photo Courtesy of Google

Prior to the incident, Adams and another man allegedly exchanged words at 148th Street and Jamaica Avenue.

By Forum Staff A Bronx man has been charged for allegedly shooting into an MTA bus, striking two passengers and shattering the front windshield Thursday morning in Jamaica, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Friday.

Melvin Adams, 43, was arraigned Friday morning on a criminal complaint charging him with assault in the first degree, attempted assault in the first degree, two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, three counts of assault in the second degree, reckless endangerment in

the first degree and criminal possession of a firearm.

According to the charges, Adams was on 148th Street and Jamaica Avenue last Thursday at approximately 8:55 a.m. when he and a stranger walking by and had a heated exchange of words. Adams walked across the street and allegedly was observed crouching down and then reaching into a backpack.

The defendant allegedly pulled out a black pistol, point it towards the man on the street he’d been arguing with and fire three shots.

According to the criminal complaint, a 66-year-old passenger on the MTA Q8 bus saw the windshield of the vehicle shatter

File Photo

“We can’t live in a world where a petty dispute on the street between strangers end ups with innocent people getting shot at on a city bus,” DA Katz said.

and immediately felt pain in his shoulder.

The victim looked down and realized he was bleeding from a laceration to his shoulder.

This man was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Additionally, a second passenger on the bus also felt pain in his arm and hand immediately after hearing the gunshots. The 20-year-old observed blood on his hand. He, too, was taken to a nearby hospital and was treated for a shattered bone in his hand from a bullet fragment that remains in his hand.

A City police officer at the location also allegedly observed the defendant firing a pistol, and then saw Adams begin to walk

quickly down the street away from the scene.

The officer apprehended Adams with the backpack, and allegedly recovered a .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol with one round in the chamber and eleven rounds of ammunition in the magazine. An additional magazine with 15 rounds of ammunition was also allegedly recovered from the backpack, Katz noted.

“We can’t live in a world where a petty dispute on the street between strangers end ups with innocent people getting shot at on a city bus,” the DA added.

If convicted, Adams faces up to 25 years in prison.

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Legal Notices KUSTOMBYKINA, LLC Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 04/19/2021. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: sakina duncan, 14561 179th Street, jamaica, NY 11434. Purpose: any lawful activity.

QUEENS NECTAR MEADERY, LLC, Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 07/01/2021. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: MAX SINGER, 117-14 UNION TURNPIKE APT AB1 KEW GARDENS, NY 11415 . Purpose: any lawful activity.

CSSTECH LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/08/2021 Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process served against the LLC to GILES JOSPEH, 186-01 HENDERSON AVE., HOLLIS, NY 11423 . Purpose: any lawful act.

MADRID & LABRADOR BEAUTY LLC, Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 07/01/2021. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: JUAN DAVID MADRID, 35-59 82nd STREET, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372 . Purpose: any lawful activity.

BITE BACK EXTERMINATION LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/21/2021. Office loc: Queens County.

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

SSNY shall mail process to: BITE BACK EXTERMINATION LLC, 13946 87th RD., JAMAICA, NY 11435 . Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

DR. HILLARY HANCOCK, PSYD, PLLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/12/2021. 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, 41-06 50th STREET, 6B, WOODSIDE, NY 11377. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of 65-75 WOODHAVEN, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/19/21. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 65-75 Woodhaven Blvd., Rego Park, NY 11374. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Farmers Handicrafts LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 7/12/21. 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 James Howlader, 111-32 43rd Avenue, Corona , New York 11368.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

LawEd Connections, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 7/20/21. 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, 118-21 Queens Blvd Suite #606 Forest Hills, NY 11375 .

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

GLOBAL LUXURY COLLECTION LLC Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 03/04/2020. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:MISHAEL MULLOKANDOV, 11949 UNION TURNPIKE, #5B, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375 . Purpose: any lawful activity.

JSR DISTRIBUTION LLC Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/30/2020. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: JSR DISTRIBUTION LLC, 231-10 148TH AVE., SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 11413.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

LOYALTYVARISITY LLC Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 06/03/2021. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LOYALTYVARSITY LLC, 14557 232ND STREET, SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 10457 . Purpose: any lawful activity. Purpose: any lawful activity.

PB ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL LLC Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 06/11/2021.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: CHARLES F BRANDY, 209-20 HOLLIS AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 11429 .

Purpose: any lawful activity.

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SIP AND SLIP SLUSH BAR LOUNGE LLC Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 07/09/2021. Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:SIP AND SLIP SLUSH BAR LOUNGE, PO BOX 900421, FAR ROCKAWAY, NY 11690-0421 . Purpose: any lawful activity.

LAW OFFICE OF SEEMA GULIANI, PLLC. Articles of Org. filed with the NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 08/03/2021.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 198-42 Foothill Ave,. Hollis, NY 11423.

Purpose: To practice Law. Notice of Formation, BEIW LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/09/2021 Office Location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 47-15 164th St. Flushing, NY 11358. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of THE PURPLEDOT LLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Secretary of State (SSNY) on 07/19/2021. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process may be served against the LLC against the LLC. SSNY mail process to c/o Cabanillas and Associates 120 Bloomingdale Road, Suite 400, White Plain NY 10605. Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of CITYPRINTS, LLC Articles of Org. filed with NY Secretary of State (SSNY) on 07/23/2021. Office location: Queens, NY. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process may be served against the LLC against the LLC. SSNY mail process to ERICK TERAN, 83-09 35TH AVE, APT E21, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372, US. Any lawful purpose.

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