THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | AUGUST 19, 2021

VOL. 21 • NUMBER 24 • AUGUST 19, 2021

BRAKE-THROUGH MTA, DOT Tout Ambitious Plan to Yield Faster Bus Speeds across City

See Story on Page 6

The plan, announced Monday, will affect many Queens commuters, including those on this line leaving Woodhaven Boulevard and Jamaica Avenue in Woodhaven.

Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 19 2021 | 1

After Lindenwood Drag-Racing Death, City Official Calls for Expanding Speed Camera Program

File Photo

In May 2019, Gov. Cuomo signed legislation to reinstate the speed camera program in New York City and expand the number of authorized school speed zones from 140 to 750. The bill also expanded the hours of the program to weekdays between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

By Michael V. Cusenza The death of a drag-racing motorist in Lindenwood Sunday morning drove at least one City official to call for the expansion of the school-zone speed camera program.

Shaquan Nelson, 27, was reportedly ejected from his vehicle in a fiery crash around 4 a.m. on 79th Street near S. Conduit Avenue. Witnesses told police that Nelson’s

car spun out of control, hit a pole and burst into flames, sources told the New York Daily News.

Nelson was rushed to nearby Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

Drag-racing has long been a quality-oflife issue in the area.

On Monday, City Department of Transportation Commissioner Hank Gutman re-

leased a statement regarding Sunday morning’s accident.

“While DOT is continuing to work with NYPD on the investigation, Sunday morning’s horrible crash near Conduit Boulevard illustrates the need for an expansion of the City’s authority to operate its lifesaving school-zone speed cameras,” Gutman said.

“The high-speed fatal crash, which took the life of 27-year-old Shaquan Nelson, happened at 4a.m. in a Lindenwood school zone with camera enforcement, but outside the hours when cameras are legally allowed to operate. We once again urge the State Legislature to pass S5602/A6681, the bill sponsored by State Senator Andrew Gounardes and Assemblymember Deborah Glick, which would allow our cameras to operate 24/7 – critical as one-third of fatal crashes on city streets last year happened in school speed zones during hours when cameras could not operate. Speed cameras have proven an efficient and equitable way to reduce speeding, and their operation aroundthe-clock will surely reduce the tragic consequences of late-night reckless driving.”

On Mother’s Day 2019, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed legislation to reinstate the speed camera program in New York City and expand the number of authorized school speed zones from 140 to 750. The bill also expanded the hours of the program to weekdays between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

Gounardes and Glick sponsored that bill as well.

“There is no greater message on Mother’s Day than doubling down on our commitment to ensuring the safety of our students getting to and from school,” Lt. Gov. Kathy Hochul said at the time. “No parent should have to question whether or not they’ll see their child again at the end of the day. This legislation allows for the expanded operation of speed cameras around schools in New York City. Speed cameras are vital to monitor traffic and keep our students free from harm, helping to save lives.”

File Photo

“Sunday morning’s horrible crash near Conduit Boulevard illustrates the need for an expansion of the City’s authority to operate its lifesaving school-zone speed cameras,” City Dot Commissioner Gutman said.

Senator Hopes Next Mayor Will Bring New Policies to Help Deal with Excessive Noise

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo

“I believe we have witnessed an increase in the amount of noise complaints with a reduced enforcement of our laws under this current mayor,” Sen. Addabbo said.

By Forum Staff During the summer season, State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr.’s (D-Howard Beach) district offices have received an increase in calls from constituents concerned about the noise levels throughout the communities.

Residents from throughout the 15th Senate District have been dealing with loud noises coming from modified vehicles, music, and other sources.

“The summer months always bring with them increased noise. It is when the noise is

at unbearable levels and persists late into the night that it becomes a problem,” Addabbo said. “I understand my constituents’ frustrations with the noise, especially at all hours of the night. In order to address one aspect of the problem I have co-sponsored legislation in the Senate that will increase fines for vehicle equipment modifications that make cars louder to help mitigate some of the noise complaints. The bill is going to the governor’s desk to be either sign into law or vetoed.”

The bill Addabbo referred to would increase enforcement against motorists and repair shops that illegally modify mufflers and exhaust systems to make them excessively loud for motor vehicles and motorcycles. It would also equip police vehicles with a decibel reader.

Addabbo said he encourages anyone who encounters unreasonable noise to call 311 and lodge a complaint.

After making a noise complaint, police officers could respond within eight hours when they are not handling emergencies.

They will be able to take action if the noise is still happening when they arrive.

According to the NYC Noise Code Penalty Schedule, the penalty for causing or permitting unreasonable noise between the hours of 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. is a fine start-

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Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Mayor Bill de Blasio’s second and final term will come to a close at the end of this calendar year.

ing at $300 for a first offense to more than $1,000 for repeat offenders.

“While I have a co-sponsored bill in the Senate, it is important for state legislators to work with city officials and police officers on these types of issues,” Addabbo added.

“With the city electing a new Mayor soon, hopefully they will have new and different policies to address the noise issues we are facing. Together with elected officials on the

city and state levels, the dedicated police officers and members of the community, we can end problem noise in our communities.”

Addabbo noted that he was looking at the measures taken by previous mayoraladministrations in addressing noise complaints.

“I believe we have witnessed an increase in the amount of noise complaints with a reduced enforcement of our laws under this current mayor,” the senator said.

Assembly won’t Impeach Cuomo

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Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie

By Michael V. Cusenza Assembly leaders have decided not to impeach Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie noted in a lengthy statement issued on Monday.

Cuomo resigned last Tuesday following the release of a searing Attorney General report that concluded that he did sexually harass multiple women—including former and current State employees—by engaging in unwanted groping, kissing, and hugging, and making inappropriate comments.

His last day in office is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 25.

“There are two reasons for this decision,” Heastie said.“First, the purpose of the Assembly Judiciary Committee’s impeachment investigation was to determine whether Governor Cuomo should remain in office. The governor’s resignation answers that directive.

Second, we have been advised by Chairman [Charles] Lavine— with the assistance of counsel—of the belief that the constitution does not authorize the legislature to impeach Gov. Andrew Cuomo and remove an elected official who is no longer in office.

“Let me be clear: the committee’s work over the last several months, although not complete, did uncover credible evidence in relation to allegations that have been made in reference to the governor.

Underscoring the depth of this investigation, this evidence concerned not only sexual harassment and misconduct but also the misuse of state resources in relation to the publication of the governor’s memoir as well as improper and misleading disclosure

Photo Courtesy of Speaker Heastie

of nursing home data during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This evidence—we believe—could likely have resulted in articles of impeachment had he not resigned.

I have asked Chair Lavine to turn over to the relevant investigatory authorities all the evidence the committee has gathered. We are well aware that the attorney general is investigating issues concerning the governor’s memoir; the Eastern District of the United States attorney has been investigating the administration’s actions concerning nursing home data; and there are active investigations by local law enforcement authorities in five jurisdictions - Manhattan, Albany, Westchester, Nassau and Oswego - concerning incidents of sexual misconduct.

“As I have said, this has been a tragic chapter in our state’s history. The people of this great state expect and deserve a government they can count on to always have their best interests in mind.

Our government should always operate in a transparent, safe and honest manner. These principles have and always will be the Assembly Majority’s commitment to all New Yorkers.”

File Photo Lavine added, “The Assembly Judiciary Committee will continue to review evidence and issue a final report on its investigation of Governor Cuomo.

In doing so, the committee will take all appropriate steps to ensure that this effort does not interfere with various ongoing investigations by the United States Attorney concerning nursing home data; the attorney general concerning the governor's memoir; and local law enforcement authorities in five jurisdictions – Manhattan, Albany, Westchester, Nassau and Oswego – regarding possible criminal incidents of sexual misconduct.”

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 19 2021 | 3

South Ozone Park Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery Spree

Photo Courtesy of Google

Gounga hopped out of a stolen van at a gas station and car-jacked a Honda, which he crashed at 135th Street and 109th Avenue.

By Forum Staff A South Ozone Park man has pleaded guilty after going on a violent crime spree between September 2019 and January 2020, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz recently announced.

Rayon Gounga, 22, has pleaded guilty to robbery in the first and second degree. The defendant will be sentenced on Sept. 27.

According to the charges, on Sept. 28, 2019, Gounga used Facebook to set up a meeting with the seller of an Audi sedan. Instead of taking a test drive, the defendant drove off and never returned. He repeated this scheme on

October 18, 2019 with another person selling a BMW on Facebook and yet again on Oct. 22, 2019—driving away with a second BMW. In December 2019, Gounga committed two separate gunpoint robberies of Chinese food deliverymen. In both instances, he got away with the victims’ wallets.

According to the court files, the defendant car-jacked a driver at gunpoint and took the motorist’s Chevy Suburban on Dec. 29, 2019. About two weeks later, on Jan. 10, 2020, police found the defendant sleeping in the automobile. In an effort to evade capture, Gounga led police on a high-speed chase through parts of

“This guilty plea brings an end to his reckless criminal behavior,” DA Katz said.

Southeast Queens. After crashing the vehicle on the Nassau Expressway, Gounga jumped out and fled on foot. He jumped over a fence and accessed the cargo area at John F. Kennedy International Airport. Moments later, he car-jacked a van carrying nearly a dozen passengers that were on their way from the airport to a nearby hotel.

The chase continued in yet a third vehicle when Gounga hopped out of the stolen van at a gas station and car-jacked a Honda, which he crashed at 135th Street and 109th Avenue. The defendant ran away on foot but was found under a van parked in a nearby driveway.

Photo Courtesy of DA Katz

Gounga hopped out of the stolen van at a gas station and car-jacked a Honda, which he crashed at 135th Street and 109th Avenue.

“This defendant went on a car-stealing spree resembling a real-life, and really dangerous, version of the video game Grand Theft Auto. He also victimized two delivery workers by taking their cash at gunpoint. When police spotted the defendant sleeping in a vehicle he had stolen, he took them on a wild chase that endangered the police and public,” Katz said.

“This guilty plea brings an end to his reckless criminal behavior.”

Gounga is facing a nine-year prison sentence.

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City Starts Vax Mandate Program

By Forum Staff The City’s vaccination mandate for indoor dining, entertainment and fitness kicked off on Wednesday, and enforcement will begin on Sept. 13, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced.

The administration indicated it will conduct an aggressive outreach and education campaign, including a $10 million multiplatform paid media campaign. This campaign willinclude radio, TV, digital, social, subway live boards. Approximately 600 canvassers will be going door to door for affected businesses with the goal of reaching every zip code in the city in the next three weeks.

Affected businesses include: Indoor entertainment • Movie theaters • Music and concert venues • Museums & galleries • Aquariums & zoos • Professional sports arenas • Indoor stadiums • Convention centers • Exhibition halls • Performing arts theaters • Bowling alleys • Arcades • Pool & billiard halls • Recreational game centers • Adult entertainment • Indoor play areas Indoor dining • Restaurants • Catering halls • Hotel banquet rooms • Bars • Nightclubs • Cafeterias • Grocery stores with indoor dining • Coffee shops • Fast food/quick service with indoor dining Indoor fitness • Gyms • Fitness centers • Fitness classes • Pools • Indoor studios • Dance studios Places excluded from this mandate include: • Dining where food consumed offsite/outdoors only (e.g., fast food/quick service with no indoor dining). Note: businesses that choose to remove indoor seating entirely are not subject to the mandate • Residential buildings • Office buildings • Childcare programs

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

City Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi, M.D.

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MEDS FOR YOUR PET: DON'T JUST HAND THEM OUT...

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Mayor Bill de Blasio

• Pre-K through grade 12 public and non-public schools and programs • Senior centers • Churches hosting Sunday potlucks or similar events • Community centers • Charitable food services • Catering at someone’s home People excluded from this mandate include: • Children under the age of 12.

• Anyone entering for a minimum amount of time required for a limited purpose (e.g., bathroom use, picking up or placing an order, showing proof of vaccination).

• Performing artists who do not reside in NYC and are not regularly employed by the entity; professional athletes/members of professional sports teams who do not reside in NYC but enter a premises for the purpose of competing; and individuals accompanying performing artists or a sports team/ professional athlete as part of their regular employment and who do not reside in NYC. • Contractors who do not reside in NYC. Each vaccine mandate business should consider appropriate reasonable accommodations, mindful of the purposes behind this policy and public health, City officials said.

There are multiple ways to show proof of vaccination: • A photo or hard copy of their CDC vaccination card • NYC COVID Safe App • New York State Excelsior App • Official vaccine record • A photo or hard copy of an official vaccination record of a vaccine administered outside the United States for one of the following vaccines: AstraZeneca/SK Bioscience, Serum Institute of India/COVISHIELD and Vaxzevria, Sinopharm, or Sinovac.

“New York City has one mission: defeat the delta variant and build a recovery for all of us,” de Blasio said. “The Key to NYC sends a powerful message that vaccination will unlock our city’s potential, and we’ll stop at nothing to save lives and keep New Yorkers safe.”

Affected small businesses with questions can call the NYC Department of Small Business Services hotline at 888-SBS-4NYC (888-7274692), 311, or go online to nyc.gov/keytonyc.

Penalties for failure to comply after Sept.

13 start at $1,000 and can reach $5,000 for repeated violators.

“Vaccination makes every activity safer and this is a common-sense precaution to keep patrons of gyms, restaurants and indoor entertainment healthy,”said City Health Commissioner Dave Chokshi, M.D.

People always come into the pharmacy asking questions about giving animals over the counter (OTC) people meds.

No one wants to see their beloved pet suffer, but we need know that giving them NSAIDs or acetaminophen (Tylenol and oth¬er brands, which are not NSAIDs) out of our medicine cabinets may not be safe for dogs or cats, and doses vary widely.

Some OTC human pain relievers can be toxic–even deadly–in pets. Never give your animal something you take unless speaking with your vet first.

Similarly, pet owners shouldn't assume that a medicine good for one animal is nec¬essarily safe for another.

Rule number 1--Communicate with your vet.

Before giving your animal an NSAID: --Make sure you know what the medica¬tion is being prescribed for, how much to give and how long to give it.

--Discuss possible side effects and symp¬toms, especially those that require an imme¬diate call to the vet.

--Tell your veterinarian if the pet has a history of gastrointestinal problems, such as stomach ulcers, or surgery on the stomach or intestines.

--Tell your veterinarian if your pet is on any other medications or supplements.

If your pet is on medication, make sure you ask your vet these questions: -Why is my pet on this medication and how long do I need to give it?

-How do I give the medication to my pet?

Should it be given with food?

-How often should the medication be giv¬en and how much should I give each time? If it is a liquid, should I shake it first?

-How do I store the medication?

-What should I do if my pet vomits or spits out the medication?

-If I forget to give the medication, should I give it as soon as I remember?

-What if I accidently give too much?

-Should I finish all of the medication?

-Could this medication interact with oth¬ers?

-What reactions should I watch for?

-When do we comeback?

- Will you be calling me to check on my pet’s progress, or should I call you?

If you follow these simple rules, you and you best friend should enjoy a long healthy life together.

Until next week!

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106th Precinct Helps Confiscate Illegal Bikes O f ficers assigned to the 106th Precinct recently helped Pat ro l Borough Queens South in confiscating illegal motorcycles and scooters.

“Thanks to the hard work of our officers these illegal and dangerous bikes were removed from the streets of Queens,” new 106 commanding officer, Capt. Jerome Bacchi, wrote on Twitter.

“Thank you to the diligent Officers at the 106th Pct., as well as the NYPD commands throughout the Borough of Queens for ridding the streets of these illegal, dangerously driven bikes,” the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic added on Facebook.

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 19 2021 | 5

MTA, City DOT Announce Plan to Improve NYC Bus Service

By Michael V. Cusenza The Metropolitan Transportation Authority and the City Department of Transportation on Monday announced an ambitious plan to improve NYC’s expansive—and largely painfully slow—bus network.

New and Improved Bus Lanes and Busways MTA and DOT officials indicated that they agree that bus lanes and busways are among the most effective tools for increasing bus speeds. Starting in 2022, DOT will embark on major projects to add or improve 20 miles of bus lanes, including up to five new busway pilots. These projects, developed over the next several months in coordination with the MTA, will be designed to serve bus riders in critical areas of the city.

Dedicated bus lanes and busways have yielded what the MTA has characterized as “outstanding” results throughout the city in recent years. On the 14th Street busway, travel times have improved by 36 percent in the last year from pre-busway travel times.

The improved speeds helped fuel pre-pandemic increases in ridership as well, with ridership up 24 percent on M14 SBS service.

In the Bronx, the Bx6 SBS route began operating along dedicated bus lanes in 2017, and travel times improved by 11 to 16 percent.

In April, the MTA worked with NYCDOT to launch the 181st StreetBusway Pilot in Washington Heights, which has increased bus speeds by up to 34 percent, improving commute times for riders on five Bronx routes traveling to and from Manhattan. This unprecedented improvement followed the installation of a busway pilot on Main Street in Flushing, Queens in January 2021. Average bus speeds along the Main St busway were up to 25 percent faster during peak periods between October 2020 and May 2021.

In July 2020, offset bus lanes were installed on 149th Street in the Bronx for riders on the Bx2, Bx4, Bx17, and Bx19. This installation work has been successful in speeding up trip times in population-rich parts of the borough. Average bus speeds along 149th Street were up to 14 percent faster during peak periods between October 2019 and May 2021.

Contributing to improved performance is DOT’s installation of 16.3 new miles for bus lanes and busways in 2020.

These bus lanes and busways are on bus routes that, pre-pandemic, served over 340,000 daily bus riders. The projects included: • Queens - Merrick Blvd Bus Lane, 5.9 miles • Brooklyn - Malcolm X Blvd, 0.1 miles; Jay St busway pilot, 0.8 miles • Bronx - 149 St Bus Lane, 2.7 miles; University Ave, 0.1 mi; El Grant Highway Bus Lane, 1.2 miles • Manhattan - 14 St Bus Lane, 0.8 miles • Staten Island – Hylan Blvd Bus Lane, 4.7 miles Expanded Bus Lane Camera Enforcement One key to speeding bus service is more frequent and more consistent enforcement of busway and bus lane rules – especially for delivery vehicles and other chronic violators. Bus lane camera enforcement technology currently exists in all five boroughs, and MTA and DOT have agreed to expand camera enforcement to cover up to 85 percent of existing bus lanes by the end of 2023.

To reach that goal, the MTA has committed to more than tripling the number of cameras onboard buses in 2022, adding 300 cameras, with the plan to add at least 600 more in 2023. Approximately 30 percent of bus lane miles are covered with onboard bus cameras.

DOT will complement this effort by adding fixed cameras on up to 15 new corridors in 2022. The fixed cameras will work in concert with the bus cameras to reduce the number of illegal cars and other vehicles in bus lanes.

Transit Signal Priority Expansion The MTA and DOT will expand Transit Signal Priority to up to 750 additional intersections throughout the city in 2022.TSP helps buses spend less time at red lights by allowing buses approaching an intersection to get a shortened red light or an extended green light in real-time.

The MTA partnered with DOT to install this effective technology at more than 1,700 intersections throughout the city since 2012, and the pace of installation has grown substantially despite the pandemic.

Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza

“This new plan utilizes everything in our toolbox to speed up travel times, giving New Yorkers a clear incentive to choose the bus as their mode of choice,” NYC Transit Interim President Cipriano said.

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Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza

MTA and DOT officials said they will build off ongoing efforts that have already yielded faster bus speeds, and implement new initiatives to enhance the customer experience to ensure that the MTA bus system is ready to support New York City’s recovery.

In partnership with the MTA, DOT added 648 intersections with TSP in 2020. The expansion was by far the largest addition of TSP in any year since the first activation in 2012. New activations occurred in all five boroughs including more than 120 intersections along the B82 SBS route in southern Brooklyn. This year, more than 300 intersections have already been brought online.

Bus Network Redesign Bus network redesigns are among the biggest improvements the MTA can do to ensure New Yorkers receive appropriate bus service, which is why the MTA will restart its Bus Network Redesign program this fall, beginning with the resumption of the Bronx local bus redesign that will be implemented next summer.

The MTA will monitor emerging ridership patterns and incorporate these patterns in its upcoming redesign to better match bus service with current and future travel demands. Public outreach is expected to begin as early this fall. The MTA will coordinate redesign plans with DOT to ensure that the redesigned networks have the needed bus priority.

OMNY All-Door Boarding Pilot Coming to 10 Local Bus Routes One of the most anticipated features among bus riders is the implementation of all-door boarding using the Authority’s contactless fare payment system, OMNY. In December 2020 the MTA announced that approximately 15,000 OMNY readers have been installed on the MTA’s 5,800 bus fleet. On pilot routes, customers using OMNY will be able to enter through any door in an effort to speed up boarding times. Exact routes are still in the process of being selected. The pilot will help give the Authority a better understanding of the impact all-door boarding can have on travel time, boarding times and OMNY usage. The expectation is to implement all-door boarding on all buses by the time the MetroCard is retired by the end of 2023.

Commitment to Accessibility Improving accessibility to the bus network is a top priority for the MTA and NYCDOT. The entire MTA bus fleet has been made ADA accessible, but other barriers remain. NYCDOT will pursue new projects focused on improving the physical accessibility of bus stops across the city, and

has targeted accessibility improvements for 25 bus stops in 2022.

Throughout 2021 and 2022, the MTA expects to put more than 800 new buses, approximately 17% of its local fleet, into service with more flexible seating options in the priority and courtesy seating area designed to accommodate diverse customer needs. The buses will feature three new, single seats indicated by decals that will be able to flip up to accommodate customers with walkers, folded strollers, and other belongings. Two are single aisle-facing seats on the bus operator’s side and one is a forwardfacing seat on the curb side. The new buses will also feature wider doors and ramps designed to make it easier to enter and exit the bus.

Improved Bus Schedules and RealTime Information All the initiatives laid out by the MTA and DOT look to vastly improve the customer experience. To take advantage of all the existing and upcoming improvements, the MTA will improve bus schedules on at least 15 routes in an effort to reduce travel times.

In addition to improving schedules, the MTA and NYCDOT will upgrade real-time information for bus riders. The MTA is adding over 1,000 onboard digital information screens by the end of 2022, bringing the total number of buses equipped with these screens to approximately 64% of the fleet. NYCDOT are in the process of developing a new prototype bus time pole that will provide bus riders with real-time information signs at bus stops.

“I want to congratulate Acting Chair Janno Lieber and his MTA team for developing a real collaboration with New York City DOT," said State Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), chairman, Senate Committee on Corporations, Authorities and Commissions. “The need to infuse new technology to improve bus ridership throughout the city has already proven effective, but we must also work diligently to ensure that we increase community and business participation in these discussions to ensure those impacted understand the benefits and the possibilities new technology bring to improve ridership for our essential consumers—bus riders.”

NYC Transit Interim President Craig Cipriano added, “This new plan utilizes everything in our toolbox to speed up travel times, giving New Yorkers a clear incentive to choose the bus as their mode of choice.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 19 2021 | 7

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • AUGUST 19 2021 | 9

Schumer Warns of Surge of Phony Vax Cards Sold Online and Coming through Ports

By Forum Staff Amidst a surge of counterfeit COVID-19 vaccination cards that could continue to be sold online or shipped to mail processing centers like John F. Kennedy International Airport, before being distributed to various parts of the country, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer urged the feds, specifically U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Department of Health and Human Services and the FBI to team up and launch a crackdown against fake COVID-19 vaccination cards. Further, the Senator urged the feds to get the word out that selling or buying the counterfeit cards is not without risk because doing so is a federal crime punishable with fines or up to five years in jail. In addition, Schumer also made the case to prospective buyers of these fake cards to do something even easier and better for their health: get the safe and effective COVID vaccine.

“Fake vaccination cards have been advertised on social media, blogs and more, and now, new signs point to ramp-up production of fake cards with government logos overseas via countries like China. Just [Saturday], a bust in Tennessee revealed Chinese counterfeiters are looking to cash in on

vaccine hesitation and distribute these faux cards. That’s why we need a federal crackdown and an educational campaign to make clear this is illegal and that there is an even easier solution for those who are looking to buy or sell fake vaccine cards, and it is: to get the vaccine,” Schumer added.

Schumer said the feds must step up their efforts to ameliorate this problem before it gets worse. Schumer said that the Department of Justice must ensure these fraud cases are prosecuted to fullest extent of the law and take steps to educate the public on why this is wrong and the consequences wrongdoers will face.

Schumer also warned that for those who did receive a real vaccination card, they should not post it on social media because their info could be used in the process of making a counterfeit card. Schumer also said that we must continue the efforts he has secured federal dollars for that address vaccine hesitation, because the root of fake CDC cards stems from this predicament. Schumer said fake vaccine cards will become a real big problem in the coming months unless a crackdown is launched and the law made clear.

According to the Associated Press, across the internet, a cottage industry has

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Schumer

“Fake vaccination cards have been advertised on social media, blogs and more, and now, new signs point to rampup production of fake cards with government logos overseas via countries like China,” Sen. Schumer said.

sprung up to accommodate people who say they won’t get vaccinated for either personal or religious reasons. An Instagram account with the username “vaccinationcards” sells laminated COVID-19 vaccination cards for $25 each. A user on the encrypted messaging app, Telegram, offers “COVID-19 Vaccine Cards Certificates,” for as much as $200 apiece. Just yesterday, according to CBP, a bust occurred at the port of Memphis, where a suspicious shipment coming from Shen-

zhen, China en route to the central business district of New Orleans was intercepted. It was the 15th such shipment of the night.

Inside were 51 counterfeit COVID-19 vaccination cards. The cards had blanks for the recipient’s name and birthdate, the vaccine maker, lot number, and date and place the shot was given, as well as the Center for Disease Control logo in the upper right corner.

Schumer said this is illegal and wants the feds to get the word out.

Three Queens Residents Arrested in $130M Counterfeit Goods Scheme

By Forum Staff

Photo Courtesy of U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of NY

“[T]he defendants trafficked in counterfeit merchandise that they fraudulently branded as genuine to pass off to purchasers in the United States at a purported retail value of more than $130 million,” said Acting Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Kasulis.

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A 14-count indictment was recently unsealed in federal court in Brooklyn charging seven defendants—including three borough residents— with participating in a counterfeit goods scheme in which they imported generic goods into the United States from China, applied brand labels to those goods in workshops, some of which were controlled by the defendants, and then sold those counterfeit-branded goods to retail and wholesale purchasers, federal prosecutors announced.

The charges against Hai Long Zhou, 53, Yan Xue Huang, 50, and Jian Fen Yang, 57, all from Queens; and SaiyinHou, 25, a Brooklyn resident, include conspiracy to traffic and trafficking in counterfeit goods and money laundering.

The four defendants were arraigned last week and each was released on a $200,000 bond.

Three additional defendants remain at large.

As alleged in the indictment, between October 2019 and July 2021, the defendants participated in an international scheme to traffic counterfeit goods. The defendants first imported the goods in generic form from China into the Port of New York and New Jersey.

The goods were then delivered to workshops and storage facilities controlled by some of the defendants in Queens and on Long Island. In those workshops, insignias, emblems, trademarks and other brand signifiers were applied to the generic goods, converting them into purported brand name merchandise. These counterfeit goods were then sold as a part of the scheme directly to consumers and to

wholesale buyers. The estimated retail value of the counterfeit-branded goods, had they been genuine, was in excess of $130 million.

“As alleged, the defendants trafficked in counterfeit merchandise that they fraudulently branded as genuine to pass off to purchasers in the United States at a purported retail value of more than $130 million,” said Acting Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis. “This office and its law enforcement partners are committed to protecting consumers from paying retail prices for phony merchandise and to holding defendants accountable for their greed.”

Photo Courtesy of the Department of Homeland Security

The generic goods were allegedly delivered to workshops and storage facilities controlled by some of the defendants in Queens and on Long Island. In those workshops, insignias, emblems, trademarks and other brand signifiers were applied to the goods, converting them into purported brand name merchandise.

Middle Village Man Pleads Guilty to Posting Threats to Kill Pols, Illegally Possessing Ammo

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Warnock

In the early morning hours of Jan. 6, 2021, at approximately 12:42 a.m., Florea referenced Sen. Warnock and stated, “Dead men can’t pass sh*t laws . . .”

By Forum Staff A Middle Village man has pleaded guilty to posting threats to kill members of Congress and illegally possessing ammunition, federal prosecutors announced Monday.

Eduard Florea, 41, copped to one count of transmitting threats to injure and one count of possessing ammunition after having been convicted of a felony As set forth in the court filings and Monday’s proceeding, Florea posted threatening statements online about killing elected officials, including now-U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock and committing other acts of violence in Washington, D.C. in

connection with the certification of the results of the 2020 Presidential Election. For example, on Jan. 5, 2021, at approximately 8:40 p.m., Florea posted, “We need to all come to an agreement . . . and go armed . . . and really take back Washington.” A few minutes later, Florea posted, “Tomorrow may very [well] be the day war kicks off . . .”

At 11:53 p.m. the same day, Florea posted, “Warnock is going to have a hard time casting votes for communist policies when he’s swinging with the f***ing fish.” In the early morning hours of Jan. 6, 2021, at approximately 12:42 a.m., Florea referenced Sen. Warnock and stated, “Dead men can’t pass sh*t laws . . .”

On Jan. 6, 2021, after the assault on the Capitol had begun, Florea posted that he intended to travel to Washington, D.C. as part of a group armed with firearms ready to engage in additional violence. Between approximately 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.—while the Capitol was under siege—Florea posted the following messages, among others: • “Mine are ready....I am ready.... we need to regroup outside of DC and attack from all sides... talking to some other guys....

I will keep watching for the signal.”

• “I am awaiting my orders...armed and ready to deploy....”

• “Guns cleaned loaded . . . got a bunch of guys all armed and ready to

deploy . . . we are just waiting for the word” • “There 3 car full of armed patriots heading in from NY....”

• “Me and some guys are gearing up to head in. . . . where are you . . . 3 cars already are enroute . . . .all armed.”

• “It’s time to unleash some violence.”

On Jan. 12, 2021, FBI Special Agents and Task Force Officers with the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force executed a search warrant at Florea’s home on 76th Street in Middle Village. The search revealed that

Florea, who had been previously convicted of a State firearms-related felony, illegally possessed more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition.

“With today’s guilty plea, Florea admits to threatening the life of a successful candidate for the U.S. Senate and to urging others to take up arms to unleash violence at the Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 to thwart the results of the Presidential election,” said Acting Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis.

When sentenced, Florea faces up to 15 years in prison.

Photo Courtesy of Google

On Jan. 12, 2021, FBI Special Agents and Task Force Officers with the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force executed a search warrant at Florea’s home on 76th Street in Middle Village.

Alleged DWI Driver Indicted for Crash that Killed Woman, Daughter

The fatal collision occurred at the intersection of Rockaway and Guy R. Brewer boulevards.

By Forum Staff A borough man has been indicted by a Queens grand jury for allegedly being under the influence of alcohol when he slammed into another vehicle, killing a mother and her daughter, District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Friday.

Tyrone Absolam, 42, was arraigned Friday morning on a 16-count indictment charging him with aggravated vehicular homicide, vehicular manslaughter in the first and second degree, manslaughter in the

Photo Courtesy of Google

second degree, criminally negligent homicide, assault in the second and third degree, aggravated driving while intoxicated, operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, endangering the welfare of a child, and reckless driving. Remand for the defendant was continued; he was ordered to return to court on Sept. 7.

According to the indictment, at approximately 8:45 p.m. on Saturday, July 24, the defendant was exceeding the speed limit as he drove a 2018 gray Nissan Altima westbound on Rockaway Boulevard. Diana Granobles, 31, was mak-

File Photo

“As alleged, a family now mourns the loss of a mother and her 10-year-old daughter because of the defendant’s selfish decision to ignore the rules of the road,” DA Katz said.

ing a left turn at the intersection of Rockaway and Guy R. Brewer boulevards when Absolam allegedly smashed into the victim’s Chevy Cruze. The woman’s 10-year-old daughter, Isabella Granobles, was in the car with her.

Both the mother and child were rushed to an area hospital, where they were pronounced dead. The three passengers riding with Absolam were also injured in the crash.

They were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The defendant’s blood alcohol level was allegedly .15 – above the legal limit of .08. The

posted speed limit on Rockaway and Guy R. Brewer boulevards is 35 mph. It is alleged that the defendant was traveling at 94 mph two seconds before crashing into the victim’s car.

“As alleged, a family now mourns the loss of a mother and her 10-year-old daughter because of the defendant’s selfish decision to ignore the rules of the road,” Katz said.

“Drunk driving is never acceptable. The defendant now faces very serious charges for his alleged actions.”

If convicted, Absolam faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted.

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Legal Notices 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

THORNHILL DESIGNS, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/16/2021 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 C/O THE LLC, 243-16 THORNHILL AVENUE, DOUGLASTON, NY 11362, USA.. Purpose: any lawful act.

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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.

8032 JAMAICA CHICKEN LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/06/2021.

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, 8032 Jamaica Ave, Jamaica, NY 11421. Purpose: 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 . SSNY mail process to ERICK TERAN, 83-09 35TH AVE, APT E21, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372, US. Purpose:Any lawful purpose.

C & C CAPITAL HOLDINGS GROUP, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/09/2021 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 TIMOTHY CASALLAS, 61-55 98TH STREET, APT ST. G, REGO PARK, NY 11374, USA.. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of Formation of a Foreign Limited Liability Company ( LLC) Name: RD Rockaway, LLC Application for Authority filed by the Department of State of New York on: 07/14/2021 Jurisdiction: Delaware Organized on: 04/20/2021 Office location: County of Queens Secretary of State of New York (SSNY ) is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to:The LLC, 418 Clifton Avenue Lakewood, NJ 08701. Address required to maintained in Delaware: 874 Walker Road, Suite C Dover, DE 19904 Authorized office in it jurisdiction is: Delaware Secretary of State 401 Federal St., #4 Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: any and all lawful activities.

Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County, on the 18th day of MARCH 2021, bearing Index No. 000211-20/QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York, 11435, grants me the right to assume the name of (first) STEPHEN (last) KARPEN. My present name is STEPHINE KARPEN aka LENNOX VEREIN KARPEN (infant). My city and state of my present address is SOUTH OZONE PARK, NY. The month and year of my birth are JANUARY 2020. The place of my birth is QUEENS, NY.

Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County, on the 19th day of FEBRUARY 2021, bearing Index Number NC000444-20/QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York, 11435, grants me the right to assume the name of SHAAN SALAHUDIN. My present name is SHAAN SEEPAL (infant). The city and state of my present address is South Richmond Hill, NY. The month and year of my birth are MARCH 2015. The place of my birth is QUEENS, NY.

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