THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | FEBRUARY 3, 2022

VOL. 21 • NUMBER 5 • FEBRUARY 3, 2022

BLUE BOROUGH South Queens Comes Together at Vigils to Support City Cops

See pages 2

City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) on Tuesday night led a large prayer vigil outside the 100th Precinct stationhouse on Rockaway Beach Boulevard.

Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 1

South Queens Supports City Cops at Vigils our borough,” Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said.

Rivera was laid to rest on Friday. Mora, Rivera’s partner, was interred on Wednesday. Both officers died after they were shot in Harlem on Jan. 21 while responding to a domestic violence call “This type of senseless violence needs

Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola

Councilwoman Ariola led a prayer vigil Tuesday outside the 100th Precinct in Rockaway.

By Michael V. Cusenza In a show of force for the Force, hundreds of South Queens residents and elected officials gathered at a series of vigils over the past week calling for prayers of support for City cops.

City Councilwoman Joann Ariola led two vigils: with the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic on Sunday near the 106th Precinct stationhouse in Ozone Park; and Tuesday evening outside the 100th Precinct stationhouse on Rockaway Beach Boulevard.

to stop, and we must work together on the City and State levels to rationally address the gun violence in our city,” said State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach).

A candelight vigil for the slain officers was scheduled for Wednesday evening outside Borough Hall, according to Borough President Donovan Richards, Jr.

Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola

The community gathered across the street from the South Queens NYPD command, braving the bitter cold to support City cops.

“We have your backs,” she told cops.

The civic is also selling Blue Bows ($6) or back the blue hand held flags ($2) via Venmo @HBL-Civic. All proceeds will be donated to the families of recently slain Officers Jason Rivera and Wilbert Mora.

On Saturday, the Richmond Hill community turned out at the Sikh Cultural Society Gurudwara for another NYPD vigil.

“The outpouring of grief and support Photo Courtesy of DA Katz following the loss of Officers Jason Rivera On Saturday, the Richmond Hill community turned out at the Sikh Cultural Society Gurudwara for another and Wilbert Mora has reverberated across NYPD vigil.

Addabbo to Co-Host Free Senior Benefits Webinar

By Forum Staff State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) is partnering with LiveOn NY on a free webinar later this month to explain the types of benefits seniors are eligible for and how they would be able to apply for them, the senator announced Tuesday.

The live webinar will take place via Zoom, on Wednesday Feb. 23, starting at

4 p.m. Those interested in taking part in the webinar must register by following this link: https://bit.ly/3f RWtkD. LiveOn NY is a leading voice on issues related to senior services and aging in New York City and throughout New York State.

During the webinar, representatives from LiveOn NY will provide information about their organization and what they do,

The live webinar, co-hosted by LiveOn NY, will take place via Zoom on Wednesday, Feb. 23.

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo

“Many of our seniors are on fixed incomes, making it more difficult for them to afford the rising costs of living in the city,” Sen. Addabbo noted.

2 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

discuss the stigma and misconceptions around receiving benefits, review all of the benefits that are relevant to older adults — which includes discussing what these benefits address, the eligibility criteria and the application process — and finish with a brief Q&A from the audience and they will give out their contact information so anyone interested in reaching out.

“Many of our seniors are on fixed incomes, making it more difficult for them to afford the rising costs of living in the city,” Addabbo said. “Organizations like LiveOn NY are able to help this vulnerable population find out what benefits they are eligible for and how they can apply to receive those vitally important benefits. I want to thank LiveOn NY for their contin-

Courtesy of LiveOn NY

ued partnership and for helping my constituents with virtual webinars like this one.”

Some of the benefits LiveOn NY can help constituents register for include SNAP, SCRIE, HEAP, the Medicare Savings Program, Medicaid, and property tax exemptions. While LiveOn NY cannot assist participants in registering for these benefit programs during this meeting, seniors are encouraged to contact LiveOn NY after the webinar to talk about their specific situations and to find out if they qualify and how to apply.

For more information, call Addabbo’s office at (718) 738-1111 or LiveOn NY at (212) 398-5045 or email by email at benefits@liveon-ny.org.

City COVID Cases Down 80 Percent

Your problems are our job.

Let us begin helping you with a free consultation.

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office

“We’ve not only decreased the amount of cases by more than 80 percent since early January, but hit a new milestone with 75 percent of all New Yorkers fully vaccinated — way ahead of the national average,” Mayor Adams said.

By Forum Staff Mayor Eric Adams on Sunday announced multiple new milestones in the fight against COVID-19, which includes a massive decrease in COVID-19 cases, a landmark milestone met in vaccination rates, and free at-home deliver y options of COVID-19 treatments.

Adams was joined by city health off i c i a l s a t Ja c o b i M e d i c a l C e n t e r i n t h e B r o n x t o m a k e c l e a r t h a t N e w Yo r k e r s are w inning in the fight against CO VID-19, and encouraged them to take advantage of avai lable options to reduce transmission rates and help them quickly recover from COVID-19. One treatment for COVID-19 — oral antiv iral pi l ls — is now avai lable for free, s a m e - d a y, a t - h o m e d e l i v e r y t h r o u g h t h e H e a l t h D e p a r t m e n t ’s p h a r m a c y p a r t n e r, A l t o P h a r m a c y. B o t h o r a l a n tiviral pills and monoclonal antibodies have been proven to be ef fective at reducing severe outcomes, like hospitalization and death, and are avai lable for those who test positive for COVID-19 and have mi ld to moderate sy mptoms. “ N o t o n l y i s N e w Yo r k C i t y w i n n i n g in the fight against COVID-19, but we are bringing even more help right to N e w Yo r k e r s ’ f r o n t d o o r s t o c o n t i n u e b e a t i n g t h i s p a n d e m i c ,” s a i d A d a m s . “ We ’ v e n o t o n l y d e c r e a s e d t h e a m o u n t of cases by more than 80 percent since e a r l y Ja n u a r y, b u t h i t a n e w m i l e s t o n e w i t h 7 5 p e r c e n t o f a l l N e w Yo r k e r s f u l l y vaccinated — way ahead of the national a v e r a g e . We ’ r e a l s o o f f e r i n g h i g h - r i s k N e w Yo r k e r s , f r e e , a t - h o m e d e l i v e r y o f COVID-19 antiv iral pills to prevent serious illness and keep people out of the h o s p i t a l . I u r g e a l l e l i g i b l e N e w Yo r k ers to take advantage of this ser v ice, a n d f o r e v e r y N e w Yo r k e r t o s t a y u p t o

date w ith their vaccines and boosters.

This is about sav ing lives and getting o u r c i t y m o v i n g a g a i n .”

Tr e a t m e n t i s m o s t e f f e c t i v e w h e n star ted soon after sy mptom onset, so t h e He a l t h D e p a r t m e n t r e c o m m e n d s t h a t Ne w Yo r k e r s g e t t e s t e d r i g h t aw ay i f they feel sick . Due to limited supply of both monoclonal antibody treatments and antiv iral pills, these treatments are p r i o r i t i z e d f o r t h o s e w h o h av e t e s t e d positive and are at higher risk for severe i l l n e s s f r o m C O V I D - 1 9 . Ne w Yo r k e r s who test positive should contact their doctor or call (212) COVID19 to be connected to care and to discuss treatm e n t o p t i o n s av a i l a b l e t o t h e m .

Oral antiviral pills — taken daily for f ive days — help to stop the v ir us from reproducing , which reduces the amount of v irus in the body and prevents sy mptoms from getting worse.

T h e U. S . Fo o d a n d D r u g A d m i n i s t r a tion has authorized two oral antiviral p i l l s t o t r e a t C O V I D - 1 9 : Pa x l o v i d a n d M o l n u p i r a v i r.

Monoclonal antibody treatments are a one-time injection or intravenous treatment that offer antibody protection while the body works to produce its ow n antibodies. Monoclonal antib o d y t r e a t m e n t s , s u c h a s S o t r o v i m a b, are effective against the Omicron variant and are for patients w ho have mi ld to moderate sy mptoms for 10 days or less but are at high-risk for severe illness.

“These treatments — combined w ith high-quality masks, vaccination, testing , and our other public health precautions — help us to defang the v irus a n d k e e p N e w Yo r k e r s s a f e a n d h e a l t h y,” said Cit y Depar tment of Health and Mental Hyg iene Commi ssioner Dave C h o k s h i , M . D.

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

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

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

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

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 3

Borough Pastor Removed after Inappropriate Internet Communications with Teens Victims Act lawsuit filed against O’Connor on Aug. 13, 2020. This investigation turned up new evidence concerning a March 2000 accusation detailing inappropriate internet communications with teenagers while assigned at St. Athanasius. As a result of this information, the Diocesan Review Board found sufficient information to substantiate allegations of sexual misconduct with minors via the internet and recommended Fr. John O’Connor’s removal from ministry.

After that accusation in 2000, the Diocese of Brooklyn placed John O’Connor on leave to enable him to receive treatment from May 2000 to August 2001. He returned to ministry in the Diocese of Brooklyn in August of 2001 and continued treatment through 2005.

The removal from ministry means that he is no longer permitted to celebrate Mass publicly, cannot exercise any public ministerial duties, and cannot live in an ecclesiastical residence. His name will also be added

to the List of Credibly Accused Priests on the Diocese of Brooklyn website.

Father O’Connor was ordained on June 23, 1993, and completed post-graduate studies in Rome. He then served at the following parishes: Our Lady of Mount Carmel (Brooklyn), St. Athanasius (Brooklyn), and St. Clare’s in Rosedale. He also served as Pastor at Incarnation and most recently at St. Gregory the Great. In 2014, O’Connor was named the director of the Liturgy Office for the Diocese of Brooklyn.

Photo Courtesy of the Diocese of Brooklyn

Father John O’Connor

By Forum Staff A borough pastor has been removed from ministry following an investigation into a March 2000 claim of inappropriate internet communications with teenagers, the Rev. Robert Brennan, Bishop of Brooklyn, announced Monday.

The decision to remove Fr. John O’Connor, 54, pastor of St. Gregory the Great in Bellerose, was made based on the recommendation of the independent Diocesan Review Board. The DRB had been investigating the claims made in a Child O’Connor most recently served as pastor of St. Gregory the Great in Bellerose.

4 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Photo Courtesy of Google

Mayor Lauds City Climate Leadership

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

“It’s time to think outside the box and determine how we can handle the crisis before it's too late,” Mayor Adams said.

By Michael V. Cusenza Mayor Eric Adams on Monday announced the appointments of his climate leadership team that will focus on environmental protection and environmental justice across New York City.

Adams appointed Rohit Aggarwala as chief climate officer and commissioner of the City Department of Environmental Protection, Howard Beach resident Vincent Sapienza as chief operations officer of DEP, and Kizzy Charles-Guzman as executive director of the new Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice—which consolidates multiple city agencies into one. Adams highlighted these accomplished environmentalists’ proven track record of promoting cleaner air, advancing climate resiliency, and protecting New Yorkers.

Both Sapienza and Charles-Guzman will report to Aggarwala in his role as chief climate officer.

According to the administration, the MOCEJ will fulfill Adams’ key commitments to climate sustainability, environmental justice, and resiliency including: • Installing 100 megawatts of solar on schools, libraries, community centers, and other public buildings; • Expanding citywide resiliency projects and infrastructure; • Breaking ground on a massive clean energy complex at Wards Island Water Resource Recovery Facility; and • Completing New York City’s first comprehensive study of environmental justice.

“It is evident to anyone who opens their eyes that we are in the midst of a climate crisis in this city and around the world, so it’s time to think outside the box and determine how we can handle the crisis before it's too late,” Adams said. “This past year alone, we have experienced extreme weather anomalies and rising sea

levels, which have endangered New Yorkers’ lives, their homes, and their livelihoods. The remnants of these different calamities are still being repaired to this day, but my administration is committed to transforming the city’s quality of life and fighting for environmental justice for all New Yorkers, and this team is exactly who will get the job done for New Yorkers.”

The new office will consolidate the Mayor’s Office of Climate Resiliency and the Mayor’s Office of Climate and Sustainability, as well as incorporate the Mayor’s Office of Environmental Coordination and the Mayor’s Office of Environmental Remediation. This new, streamlined office will provide an integrated approach to climate leadership by uniting four offices that had independently addressed remediation, resiliency, sustainability and environmental justice, and environmental review.

“I applaud Mayor Adams for having the forward vision to streamline the named agencies so that there can be a coalesced plan to make our city more sustainable and resilient,” said City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park). “The areas I represent in District 32 are experiencing more frequent flooding from rising tides and were devastated by Hurricane's Sandy and Ida. As a member of the New York City Council’s Resiliency and Waterways Committee, I look forward to working with the mayor, and his newly appointed team, when implementing the plan to expand citywide resiliency projects and infrastructure. These measures will strengthen our defense against future hurricanes and rising tides, so we will never suffer that kind of devastation again. I would like to congratulate all the appointees, especially Vincent Sapienza, who I’ve had the honor of working with in the past.”

The Pharmacist’s Corner

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

ALLERGY BUSTING THE EARLY BIRD CAN SHUT DOWN SUFFERING Although some may argue that it’s too early to introduce the subject matter of this column, I’ve always subscribed to the common sense theories behind early preparation.

After the fabled terror that March weather can often bestow upon us, comes April-- and the long-awaited beginning of Spring!

But the beautiful sights and smells of the blossoms that accompany April are not the only arrivals that mark start of Spring.

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says that more than 50 million Americans suffer from allergies. Among the most common are food, dust, pollen mold, insect stings, animal dander, medications and latex.

While some allergy sufferers may only face irritations from minor symptomology, others can have life-threatening reactions and without medical attention, they can die.

Fortunately, for those people with less severe conditions, the secret to freedom from those maddening itches, sneezes, scratchy throats and watery eyes, is as near as the counters and shelves of your local pharmacy. A host of over the counter (OTC), remedies available are sure to bring an end to your misery.

Leading experts in the allergy field have made the suggestion that treating your symptoms early can lead to reducing the effects of allergy-associated respiratory distress.

There is also staunch support for monitoring the pollen count and remaining indoors during the hours when the counts are at their highest (10 am to 4 pm). Other advice is to use filters and keep windows closed during the day.

There is also great advocacy for continued spring cleaning--that’s right--mop those floors and wash the curtains regularly.

When allergy sufferers spend long periods of time outside, they can also minimize effects by showering often, washing their hair and clothes to get rid of allergens that are carried into the home upon returning from a day outside.

Remember it’s not only your personal grooming that needs focus. Regular bathing and brushing of your pets will greatly reduce the irritants in your home. And as hard as it may be on your heart, try keeping your furry friends out of the bedroom.

If you’d like to help your healthcare providers figure out how best to manage your individual condition, you should also keep a journal to track the time of day you symptoms are at the height.

Your local pharmacist can offer invaluable advice on many products to ease your suffering.

Readily available nasal sprays like Flonase Allergy Relief , Nasacort Allergy 24 HR can treat runny noses, sneezing, itchy or watery eyes and scratchy throats.

Next on the scene are Antihistamines like Allegra, Zyrtec that are time released and can provide relief for long periods of the day without drowsiness.

Decongestants like the QlearQuil product line offers combined therapies to combat sinuses and congestion.

Finally, air filters that fit inside the nose offer protection and assistance for keeping allergens out before they gain entrance to your system. These are drug free products and act to block things like dust, pollen and pet dander from finding their way into your respiratory system.

Until Next Week…

For your family’s prescription needs, please call

CROSS BAY CHEMIST at 718-659-9500 or 718-880-1644

157-02 Cross Bay Blvd. in Howard Beach: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm. Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. or 96-05 101st Ave. in Ozone Park: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm. Sunday: Closed.

DEP at Work in Lindenwood

The City Department of Environmental Protection is busy in Lindenwood.

City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) on Thursday took to social media to give her constituents the heads-up regarding the three DEP project locations: 81st Street and 151st Avenue; 85th Street between 151st and 149th avenues; and 89th Street and Shore Parkway.

“All are reported and being addressed,” Ariola noted. “Please drive safely in the areas where work is being done.”

Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 5

Group Urges Hochul to Freeze Fares For Five Years, Run Subways and Buses Every Six Minutes pressway through the heart of Queens. the Alliance called on Hochul to change the National transportation advocates strongly State’s own formula for distributing transThe grassroots Riders Alliance, New condemn infrastructure bill provisions for portation tax receipts within the downstate York’s organization of subway and bus rid- highway widening, arguing such projects area served by the MTA. Currently, motor ers, on Tuesday called on Gov. Kathy Hochul to change the downstate transportation funding formula and invest in public transit service frequency and affordability with her 21-day budget amendments due out next Tuesday, Feb. 8.

“Now is the moment for Governor Hochul to invest in more affordable and frequent public transit service,” said Riders Alliance Policy & Communications Director Danny Pearlstein. “While federal highway aid pours in, the governor and legislative leaders must deploy New York's own resources for public transit's recovery.

Riders need an affordability guarantee and buses and trains every six minutes. If Hochul delivers more service, New Yorkers will ride it.”

Flush with federal highway money, Gov. Hochul's executive budget proposal includes a record-setting $32.8 billion New York State Department of Transportation File Photo Capital Plan, 40 percent larger than the last one. The plan is supported by $13.5 billion The Riders Alliance is calling on the governor to invest in public transit service frequency and affordability. in aid from last fall's federal infrastructure bill, $4.6 billion more for New York roads divide communities, don't improve road fuel taxes, petroleum business taxes, and than was in the 2015 federal FAST Act. conditions, and encourage driving, wors- vehicle registration fees raise over $1.8 billion annually. The MTA receives one-third The governor’s plan calls for widening ening climate change and air pollution.

On Tuesday, citing the federal windfall of the total, roughly $600 million. The reseveral highways, including NY-17/I-86, Sunrise Highway, and the Van Wyck Ex- and urgent need to invest in transit service, maining two-thirds of the so-called DediBy Forum Staff

cated Funds Pool, over $1 billion each year, now pay for road construction.

Instead, the Riders Alliance argued, Hochul should flip the allocation of these funds to recoup upwards of $500 million that could pay for a fare freeze and six-minute service, which in turn would accelerate New York's recovery, advance equity, and fight climate change.

The Riders Alliance has refined its funding demand for a five-year long transit fare freeze and six-minute subway and bus service. With millions of New Yorkers riding every day, but still just half as many as before the pandemic, these investments, speakers Thursday argued, are essential to restoring New York’s economy, advancing equity, and fighting climate change.

The RA argued that new federal infrastructure dollars free up major state resources to make robust investments in rebuilding ridership. A half-decade fare freeze would protect low-income service workers who predominate among transit riders today while also making transit comparatively more attractive to millions of other New Yorkers and visitors now weighing multiple transportation options.

More frequent service would yield faster transit trips, the Alliance noted, outcompeting other modes and drawing even more riders to the system while also helping close the acute access to opportunity gap that drives inequity in New York.

Construction Completed on LaGuardia’s New Terminal B

By Forum Staff Governor Kathy Hochul, Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Executive Director Rick Cotton and Chairman Kevin O’Toole, and LaGuardia Gateway Partners CEO Frank Scremin and other elected officials on Thursday celebrated the completion of new facilities at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B, marking a major milestone in the terminal’s $4 billion transformation. The completion and the opening of LaGuardia Terminal B’s western skybridge, and the opening in December of Terminal B’s second concourse, means that every arriving and departing passenger at Terminal B will experience newly built, 21st century architecture and facilities from gate to curb.

All of the terminal’s temporary walkways have been taken out of service. With the completion of the second pedestrian bridge, which will span an active aircraft taxiway, Terminal B also becomes the world’s first airport with dual pedestrian skybridges.

Terminal B was awarded UNESCO’s Prix Versailles in December as “Best New Airport in the World” by a blue-ribbon panel of international architects assembled by the United Nations agency. The new terminal includes 1.35 million square feet of new terminal facilities and features

35 gates, a 3,000-car parking garage, and new covered, convenient pickup facilities for both taxis and ride-sharing vehicles.

The terminal offers best-in-class retail, vast dining experiences, stunning art and amenities that provide customers with a world-class 21st century travel experience. Related roadway improvements and supporting infrastructure were all built while keeping the terminal fully functional during construction. With the interior work at Terminal B now completed, the remaining small portion of the old Central Terminal Building has been removed from service and will be torn down, with demolition expected to be completed by spring 2022.

As one of Terminal B’s most distinct architectural elements, the pair of skybridges span active aircraft taxi lanes, connecting the new, light-filled arrivals and departures hall to the terminal’s two island concourses, all featuring best-in-class concessions and amenities for passengers.

The construction of both skybridges has enabled more than two additional miles of taxiway space to be built, reducing delays for arrivals and departures and will help ease customers’ ability to travel seamlessly to their gates. Planes have been taxiing under the eastern skybridge since the spring of 2021 and will be able to successfully taxi below the western skybridge

6 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Photo Courtesy of Kevin Coughlin/Office of the Governor

The completion of new facilities at LaGuardia Airport’s Terminal B marks a major milestone in the terminal’s $4 billion transformation.

beginning in summer 2022. Passengers using the new skybridges to reach Terminal B’s gates will enjoy magnificent views of the Manhattan skyline.

Measuring 482 feet long and 60 feet above the ground, the two pedestrian bridges were a critical feature in the design of the new terminal. The dual bridges are impressive architecturally, but also assure that aircraft that are taxiing have two ways to enter or exit their gates.

Since 2020, customers have been us-

ing one of the completed skybridges to access Terminal B’s east gates. The design of the new terminals’ twin island concourses provides more space and options for planes to taxi upon departure and arrival.

Previously, aircraft movements could be blocked because there was only one way into the gates and one way out.

“It’s time to get New York City moving again, and a world-class airport here in Queens will help us do that,” Mayor Eric Adams said.

Pol Touts $1.5B Push to Give ATF Resources Needed to Disrupt ‘Iron Pipeline’

By Forum Staff Days after the New York State Police, NYPD, and more than 50 multistate representatives met as part of the new Interstate Task Force on Illegal Guns, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said that much of the plans to beat back illegal guns and traffickers in New York, Long Island and beyond depends on the federal government’s, specifically the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, ability to lend critical resources and support along the way—which all depends on dollars.

“The new task force on illegal guns will be critical for data-sharing, crime gun tracing, and intel gathering,” Schumer said on Sunday. “At the same time, these plans to beat back illegal guns and traffickers must be fueled by federal funding, specifically at the ATF, which is also represented on the new force. That is why I am pushing for $1.5 billion dollars in federal funds for the agency, so they can help with this work and do much more at the national level.”

Schumer announced, as part of budget negotiations happening currently, that he will push $1.5 billion

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Schumer

“These plans to beat back illegal guns and traffickers must be fueled by federal funding, specifically at the ATF,” Sen. Schumer said.

dollars for the ATF’s national budget.

Schumer said that at least $1.5 billion for the ATF will allow them to disperse the resources needed to fully support the new New York-focused task force.

Schumer said that the ATF needs a fully funded budget to take on illegal gun trafficking, jam the iron pipeline exporting guns to states like New York and more.

Early last week, the State held its first meeting of the Task Force on Illegal Guns. According to the state, “the multi-state consortium convened to share intelligence, tools, tactics, and strategies to combat gun violence, especially as it relates to the trafficking of firearms between states. Among other things, the State Police discussed the latest tools and technologies avail-

able as well as analysis of the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and other data sources in furtherance of this endeavor.” New York said that “easily obtainable firearms fuel much of New York's recent surge in gun violence and a rise in ghost guns, with most of these weapons trafficked into and throughout the state from other areas of the country.”

Schumer added that the Department of Justice has a special strike force of its own that aims to crackdown on export states and bad actors responsible for New York’s crime guns, and this force, too, will require critical ATF dollars if it is to remain in place and functional.

Schumer explained what will happen this week in the Senate as it relates to his push as he detailed why this matters to New York, Long Island and so much of the metro area.

According to the DOJ, their own strike force will “…share information and otherwise collaborate across districts where firearms trafficking schemes cross state or jurisdictional boundaries to focus enforcement against entire trafficking networks, from the places where guns are unlawfully obtained to the areas where they are used to commit violent crimes.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 7

8 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 9

With Small Businesses in Dire Need of Help, Pol Urges IRS to Expedite Promised Help

By Michael V. Cusenza

File Photo

“I’m calling on the IRS to hear the needs of these business owners and to do everything in their power to deliver this already-passed money swiftly and efficiently,” Sen. Gillibrand said.

United States Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) recently sent a letter to Internal Revenue Service Commissioner Charles Rettig calling on him to expedite and clear the backlog of unprocessed Employee Retention Credit payments that were passed and guaranteed in the CARES Act in March of 2020.

According to Gillibrand, the ERC credit was created to help struggling businesses in urgent need of assistance due to economic disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, disbursement of the ERC credit would ensure businesses receive funding in the form of a payroll credit to encourage businesses owners to retain employees and help offset the cost of lost revenue and rising inflation. These payments are especially needed for small and mid-sized businesses that have suffered massive financial losses due to reduced demand and supply chain disruptions, Gillibrand noted.

The senator is also calling for the IRS to clear the significant backlog of individual income tax returns so that individuals and families can receive their Child Tax Credit, UI related refunds, Earned Income Tax Credit, and other payments in a timely manner.

“I realize the challenge the COVID-19 pandemic has presented to your agency, both with staffing shortages and additional work brought on by new provisions like the ERC,” Gillibrand wrote. “I am aware that there is also a significant backlog of individual income tax returns that need to be processed, and it is important that clearing that backlog remains a priority so that individuals and families can receive their Child Tax Credit, UI

related refunds, Earned Income Tax Credit, and other payments in a timely manner. I hope the IRS can also take steps to support employers by taking action to clear the ERC refund backlog and getting checks into the hands of business owners in New York and across the country.”

Gillibrand said last week that she has “heard from constituents across New York and the message is clear after two years of grappling with financial hardship caused by the pandemic, businesses are in dire need of this assistance through the ERC credit. We did our part in Congress, now it’s time for the IRS to deliver. When Congress passed this funding as part of the CARES Act, businesses were assured they would receive immediate and direct assistance in the form of a payroll credit to help keep Americans employed and operations running during this difficult time. I’m calling on the IRS to hear the needs of these business owners and to do everything in their power to deliver this already-passed money swiftly and efficiently.”

Andrew Rigie, executive director, NYC Hospitality Alliance, added, “Restaurants in New York City and around the country have been devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the federal government’s Employee Retention Credit was intended to provide critical relief to struggling small businesses. Unfortunately, too many restaurants and bars have been waiting way too long to receive the employee retention credit they’re owed by the IRS, which is posing significant financial burdens because they were relying on this money help to pay rent, keep people employed and to help keep their doors open.”

Rego Park Man Convicted of Stabbing Pregnant Girlfriend to Death Hobson left the scene with the murder weapon, which was never recovered. He fled to Pennsylvania but turned himself in to law enforcement five days after the murder.

“The defendant has been convicted and held responsible for taking the life of a woman, who was the mother of a young son and was also approximately 12 weeks pregnant,” Katz said. “This was a horrific

Jennifer Irigoyen was murdered three years ago in her Ridgewood apartment building.

By Forum Staff A Rego Park man has been convicted in the fatal February 2019 knife attack on his girlfriend in her Ridgewood apartment building, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz recently announced.

Anthony Hobson, 51, was found guilty of murder, tampering with evidence and criminal possession of a weapon following a two-week-long trial.

According to trial testimony, on Feb. 3, 2019, at approximately 1 a.m., on the third floor of a residential building on Myrtle Av-

crime—the victim was stabbed repeatedly inside the stairway of her apartment building. The defendant now faces a lengthy prison sentence from the court.”

Sentencing has been set for Feb. 17. At that time, Hobson faces up to 25 years to life in prison, with additional possible time for the tampering with evidence conviction.

Photo Courtesy of Google

enue, a neighbor heard the victim, Jennifer Irigoyen, screaming “Help! Help!

He’s trying to kill the baby!” The neighbor ran into the hallway and saw Hobson dragging Irigoyen, a 35-year-old real estate agent, into the stairwell. The witness saw Hobson—using what appeared to be a kitchen steak knife—repeatedly stab the victim.

The DA said that Irigoyen suffered puncture wounds to her neck, chest and abdomen, along with numerous other injuries. She was transported to an area hospi“This was a horrific crime,” DA Katz said. tal where she was pronounced dead.

10 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

File Photo

LIC Lawyer Charged with Possessing Child Porn

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia

Levi was arraigned on a massive 1,542-count indictment.

By Forum Staff After an online investigation, a Long Island City lawyer has been charged with possessing child porn, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Friday.

Eric Levi, 61, was arraigned Thursday night on a 1,542-count criminal complaint charging him with 514-counts each of promoting a sexual performance by a child, promoting a sexual performance by a child as a sexually motivated felony, and possessing a sexual performance by a child.

Levi has been ordered to return to court on March 25.

According to the charges, said DA Katz, a police officer conducting an online investigation using specialized software identified an IP address that allegedly received approximately 50 files of material considered to be child sexual abuse images. A subpoena for the internet provider of the IP address identified the user as Levi with his home address and apartment number.

A court-authorized search warrant was executed at Levi’s residence early Friday morning where police recovered an Apple computer, a USB storage unit and an iPhone. A detective performed a forensic preview of material on Levi’s computer and found more than 10 images of children between the ages of 6 and 8 naked and revealing their genitals. Levi allegedly admitted to pleasuring himself to the images and blamed COVID as he was lonely during the pandemic.

“As alleged, the defendant downloaded and viewed numerous images of nude prepubescent children engaged in sexual acts with adult males on his computer in his home,” Katz said. “These images of youngsters aren’t just pictures, but crime scene

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia

A detective performed a forensic preview of material on Levi’s computer and found more than 10 images of children between the ages of 6 and 8 naked and revealing their genitals.

photos of children being abused. The de- were criminal.” fendant, a member of the bar, certainly If convicted, Levi faces seven years in should have known that his alleged actions prison.

Disbarred Lawyer Pleads Guilty to Swindling Clients out of more than $1.8M

Choi operated a law office on Northern Boulevard in Flushing.

By Forum Staff A disbarred Flushing lawyer has admitted to bilking over 50 clients out of more than $1.8 million, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Tuesday.

Yohan Choi, 47, who operated a law office on Northern Boulevard in Flushing, and was charged in two separate criminal complaints. On Monday, Choi pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the fourth degree.

Sentencing has been set for April 6. Choi will serve 1 1⁄2 to 4 1⁄2 years in prison. At the time of his plea, Choi signed 28 confessions of judgment to repay in excess of $1.8 million to make his victims whole.

According to the charges, Choi held bank accounts for his law practice at several financial institutions, including Chase, Capitol One and HSBC. A forensic examination of these accounts showed dozens of deposits for lawsuit settlements on behalf of Choi’s clients.

According to court records, in November 2016 a woman Choi represented in a personal injury lawsuit agreed to settle the case for $52,500. The victim was entitled to just over $35,000, however, she never received any money from the settlement.

Another female client of Choi’s settled her lawsuit in May of 2018 for $75,000. After the lawyer’s fee and other expenses were

Photo Courtesy of Google

deducted the victim should have received just over $50,000. Choi never turned over that money, despite the insurance company depositing a check totaling $75,000 into his account.

A man who also hired Choi to represent him in a personal injury case agreed to settle for $45,000 and was entitled to receive $30,150. The investigation showed that Choi’s bank account received a check from the insurance company for $45,000 on May 12, 2020. Three days later, though, that same escrow account balance totaled just $423. The victim never received the money he was due.

According to the charges, the defen-

File Photo

“As a member of the bar, this defendant took an oath to uphold the law. Unfortunately, his greed overpowered his sense of duty,” DA Katz said.

dant repeated this scheme at least 50 times over the course of five years. Clients due varying sums of money—from as little as $1,000 to more than $50,000—were left empty-handed. In all these instances, Choi’s business accounts show the checks were deposited—totaling more than $1.8 million—but his victims were never issued a check they were due.

Choi’s license to practice law was suspended in November 2017.

“As a member of the bar, this defendant took an oath to uphold the law. Unfortunately, his greed overpowered his sense of duty,” Katz added.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 11

12 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

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

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

HOARD BEACH

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

HOWARD BEACH

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

mint call now !

Call Now !

HOWARD BEACH

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

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

Call Now !

HOWARD BEACH

WOODHAVEN

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

CALL NOW !

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 13

Legal Notices 28-13 48 ST LLC filed w/ SSNY on 12/21/21. Office: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 25-84 Steinway St., Astoria, NY 11103. Exist date: 1/1/22 Purpose: any lawful.

QL CONSULTS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/26/21. Off. loc.: Queens Co. SSNY des. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Legalinc Corporate Services Inc., 1967 Wehrle Drive, Suite 1-086, Buffalo, NY 14221. Purpose: General.

WEI BUSINESS AND PROPERTY CONSULTANT LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/09/21. Off. loc.: Queens Co. SSNY des. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to WEI BUSINESS AND PROPERTY CONSULTANT LLC, 6517 110th St., Forest Hills, NY, 11375, USA.Purpose: General.

MARCK HOLDINGS LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 1/3/2022. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 137-46 71st Ave Flushing, NY 11367. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

HARPREET KAUR REALTOR LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/28/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Harpreet Kaur, 8225 247th Street, Bellerose, NY 11426. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

DOUBLE UP TRADES LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/12/21. Off. loc.: Queens Co. SSNY des. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 88-38 50th Ave., FL 2, Elmhurst, NY 11373.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

VISION LIGHT LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/27/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: SHIH CHUN TAI, 10518 METROPOLITAN AVENUE, FOREST HILLS, NY,11375, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

CASA FERREIRA LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/08/2021. 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 LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 8631 257TH ST., FLORAL PARK, NY, 11001, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of ICEKOUTURE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/12/22.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 13004 135TH AVENUE, South Ozone Park, NY, 11420, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

LET’S GROOVE CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/03/2022. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LISA STOCKMAN, 3083 32nd Street, Apartment 3A, Long Island City, NY, 11102, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

INCHEN SONAM LLC, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/30/21.

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 KONCHOK RINCHEN, 4163 74TH ST. FL2, ELMHURST, NY, 11373, USA. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

New York ADR LLC filed w/ SSNY on 1/5/22. Office: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: PO Box 604607, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: any lawful.

Notice of Formation of 3EEES PROPERTIES LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/12/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 3EEES PROPERTIES LLC 14309 222nd Street, Bsmt. Laurelton, NY,11413,USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of 300 KENMORE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/04/19. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 300 Kenmore Rd., Douglaston, NY 11363. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of ICEKOUTURE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/12/22.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 13004 135TH AVENUE, South Ozone Park, NY, 11420, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities..

14 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

Notice of Formation of DAGA CONSULTING LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/12/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 13004 135TH AVENUE, South Ozone Park, NY, 11420, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of HAIR DEN LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/12/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: MARIA ZACCHEO, 156-47 94th Street, Howard Beach, NY, 11414,USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

CHEN & HONG REALTY, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 1/18/22. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail copya of process to the LLC, 136-20 BOOTH MEMORIAL AVENUE, UNIT 2D, FLUSHING, NY 11355, USA. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

CANDACE’S EXQUISITE COLLECTIONS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/20/21. 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, 18922 MANGIN AVE, SAINT ALBANS, NY 11412, USA. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of DELMONICO MANAGEMENT CO LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/17/21. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Michael Esposito, 30-15 35th Ave., Long Island City, NY 11106.

Purpose: Any lawful activity. .

PANDAYO NY LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 1/27/22. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the RACHEL JARVINA ELAZEGUI, 83-45 VIETOR AVENUE APT. 5E, ELMHURST, NY, 11373, USA. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 5 • FEBRUARY 3 2022 | 15

16 FEBRUARY 3, 2022 • Number 5 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP