THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | MARCH 16, 2023

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Two Bravest Hurt Battling Blaze at Richmond Hill E-bike Shop

By Michael V. Cusenza

Two City firefighters suffered minor injuries Monday afternoon while battling a two-alarm blaze at an e-bike shop in Richmond Hill.

The fire broke out around 2:30 p.m. at The Kings Electric Scooters at 102-44 Jamaica Ave. The inferno was brought under control roughly an hour later.

City fire marshals on Tuesday determined the cause of the fire to be accidental, caused by a lithi -

um-ion battery that had been recently repaired. The fire then extended to numerous other e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries in the store, FDNY officials said.

According to WABC-TV, so far this year there have been two deaths and more than 40 injuries in New York City from fires caused by lithium-ion batteries. In 2022, lithium-ion batteries caused 200 fires and six deaths across the five boroughs.

Earlier this month, Rep. Nydia Valazquez (D-Queens and Brooklyn) penned a letter to U.S. Customs and Bor-

der Protection calling on the agency to do more to curb imports of dangerous unbranded lithium-ion batteries used in electric micro-mobility devices like e-scooters and bikes. In New York City, 65,000 gig economy delivery workers, or deliveristas, rely on these devices to earn a living.

In the letter, Velazquez called on the CBP to make efforts to seize substandard lithium-ion batteries and compel micro-mobility manufacturers, sellers, and resellers to comply with minimum safety standards.

Richmond Hill Resident Found Guilty of Impeding Law Enforcement Officers during Jan. 6 Capitol Breach

By Forum Staff

A Richmond Hill resident was found guilty in the District of Columbia on Friday of felony and misdemeanor charges for her role during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol breach.

According to U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Matthew Graves, the actions of Sara Carpenter and others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election.

Carpenter, 53, a former City cop, was found guilty on Friday after a trial in U.S. District Court of civil disorder, obstruction of an official proceeding, both felonies, and five misdemeanors. U.S. District Court Judge James E. Boasberg scheduled sentencing for July 14.

According to the government’s evidence, on Jan. 6, 2021, Carpenter, who once served as a police officer in New York City, was captured on CCTV in the Capitol Rotunda and elsewhere. Carpenter confronted a line of police officers inside the Capitol, shook her tambourine and screamed “I’m a f**** ani-

mal,” pushed up against the officers who were guarding a hallway to the Senate chamber, and also slapped the arms of law enforcement officers who were trying to hold her back from further intruding into the Capitol. Despite being told to leave, and despite enduring the effects of chemical irritants, Carpenter remained in the Capitol for 34 minutes. Upon exiting, Carpenter stated: “The breach was made. It needs to calm down now. Congress needs to come out. They need to certify Trump as president. This is our house.” Before exiting, Carpenter raised and shook her tambourine above her head.

Carpenter was arrested on March 23, 2021, in Jamaica.

In the 26 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,000 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

Photo Courtesy of FDNY

Two firefighters were hurt in Monday afternoon’s blaze.

Photo Courtesy of U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia Capitol insurrectionist Sara Carpenter is a Richmond Hill resident and former City cop.

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Martin Falbisoner

have been arrested in

Photo Courtesy of FDNY In 2022, lithium-ion batteries caused 200 fires and six deaths across the five boroughs.

Photo Courtesy of FDNY City fire marshals said the fire was caused by a lithium-ion battery that had been recently repaired. The fire then extended to numerous other e-bikes and lithium-ion batteries in the store.

DSNY Issues New Rules for Putting out Garbage

By Michael V. Cusenza

In an effort to combat the burgeoning rat issue across the five boroughs by reducing the time that trash, recycling, and curbside composting will sit on sidewalks, the City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) is changing their waste set out times next month, State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) noted on Tuesday.

Starting April 1, the new rules for setting out trash, recycling, and curbside composting will go into effect. There are different rules governing residential buildings and commercial buildings.

Residential buildings have three options (one of which requires an opt-in by buildings in the month of January):

• Place trash out after 6 p.m. in a container with a secure lid;

• Place trash out after 8 p.m. if putting bags directly on the curb; or

• If a building has nine or more residential units, the property owner may opt into a 4 a.m. –7 a.m. set-out window instead. The opt-in period runs each year for the month of January, which allows DSNY to design quick and efficient routes that take effect on April 1 each year. To learn more about this option, visit nyc.gov/multiunitsetout.

Businesses that place the waste at the curb for collection have two options:

• If using a container with a secure lid, place the waste at the curb one hour before closing; or

• If putting bags directly on the curb, place waste out after 8 p.m.

In either case, bundled cardboard may go next to the containers or bags. These rules do not apply to businesses that have waste collected from a loading dock.

“Residents across the city have seen rats roaming their neighborhoods at night looking for some food or shelter. Mayor Eric Adams is taking the fight to these rats, and is asking for all of our help,” Addabbo said. “As part of that fight, we are being asked to change the time that we put out our garbage the night before collection day. I encourage all of my constituents to review these new rules and make a plan to adhere to them starting on April 1 because there will be no grace period for this program and fines will be assessed to those not following the new times.”

For both residential properties and businesses, setting out garbage too early could result in fines of $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense, and $200 for third and subsequent offenses within a 12-month period. There will not be a grace period or warning period for these changes; enforcement begins April 1, 2023.

To learn more about these changes and when you can put out your garbage, visit nyc.gov/SetoutTimes.

Photo Courtesy of DSNY

The new rules go into effect April 1.

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo

“Residents across the city have seen rats roaming their neighborhoods at night looking for some food or shelter. Mayor Eric Adams is taking the fight to these rats, and is asking for all of our help,” Sen. Addabbo said.

TSA Officers Prevent Pennsylvania Man from Bringing Loaded Gun through Checkpoint at JFK Airport

By Forum Staff

A Montgomery County, Pa., man was arrested at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Thursday after Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers detected a loaded .38-caliber revolver in the man's backpack.

The gun was caught as the man, a resident of Evansburg, Pa., entered the security checkpoint. The X-ray unit alerted on the carry-on bag, which required a closer inspection. The firearm was removed by the Port Authority Police who confiscated the gun and arrested him on weapons charges. The man claimed that he did not know that the gun was in his bag.

In addition to being arrested, he now faces a stiff financial civil penalty for bringing a gun to a TSA security checkpoint. The penalty for carrying weapons recently increased to a maximum of $15,000.

“Guns are not permitted through any airport security checkpoint," said John Essig, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “Our officers are well-trained and vigilant. Hopefully this arrest will be a strong reminder to others not to bring their guns to our checkpoints here at JFK or at any airport. Traveling with a loaded gun that

you don’t even know you are carrying is a public safety concern, considering that the bag could be misplaced or the firearm could accidentally be discharged during a bag search. We are happy to make sure that firearms travel

this year. Last year, TSA officers prevented seven firearms from getting through checkpoints at JFK Airport. All of them were loaded. Last year, 6,542 firearms were caught at 262 out of 430 airport security checkpoints na -

arms must be unloaded then packed in a hard-sided locked case. The locked case should be taken to the airline check-in counter to be declared. TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website: tsa.gov/traveler-information/firearmsand-ammunition.

Firearm possession laws vary by state and locality and gun owners have a duty to ensure they are not violating any local firearm laws. Additionally, contacting the respective airline could reveal any additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition.

Bringing a gun to an airport checkpoint carries a federal civil penalty because TSA reserves the right to issue a civil penalty to travelers who have guns and gun parts with them at a checkpoint. Civil penalties for bringing a gun into a checkpoint can stretch into thousands of dollars, depending on mitigating circumstances. This applies to travelers with or without concealed gun carry permits because a concealed carry permit does not allow a firearm to be carried onto an airplane.

with their owners as long as the guns are unloaded and packed properly.” This was the second firearm that TSA has detected at the airport so far

tionwide. Eighty-eight percent of those guns were loaded. Passengers are permitted to travel with firearms in checked baggage. Fire -

Unsure if an item should be packed in a carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither? Download the free myTSA app (tsa.gov/mobile), which has a handy “What can I bring?” feature.

Photo Courtesy of TSA

This loaded handgun inside a man’s carry-on bag was detected by TSA officers at John F. Kennedy International Airport on Thursday.

Adams Praises Biden’s Gun Safety Order

FINDING OUT ABOUT HORMONES: A NEW OPTION FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH

The days of people assigning total trust in their doctors and staying out of their health care decisions are long over. Many factors have contributed to the new-age awareness in personal health care, most notably, rising healthcare cost.

One rising area in personal awareness comes from women’s eagerness to investigate the effects of their ever changing hormones on overall health.

Hormones provide many clues about women’s health, but diagnostic testing can run into thousands of dollars which prohibits many, both insured and uninsured, from taking advantage of the valuable knowledge to be found in the information provided by the bodies hormones.

Several start up companies launched home testing kits in 2018 with options for testing affects on stress, thyroid and fertility intel among other conditions.

Experts are predicting that hormonal home testing will grow three to four-fold over the next few years.While we support everyone arming themselves with as much information and safe practice diagnostic tools to participate actively in their own healthcare, we want to make you aware of some of the possible pitfalls.

waste of money on tests that don’t apply.

Additionally, you should always do this testing in conjunction with your doctor’s advice, but be aware that some docs may not have the expertise to interpret results of the hormone panels. It’s critical to work with a physician who can help you make sense of your test results and any follow-up measures needed to be taken in reaction to the results.

Many of the kits also include diet and lifestyle recommendations along with supplement suggestions.

These kits may very well end up leading to important findings and diagnoses that women might not otherwise seek out. Some of these discoveries could be life threatening and in turn life saving. The kits can be a great option for women, not just those with curiosity, but for those who might not otherwise get essential lab testing.

We always advocate your interest and active pursuit to ensure your best healthcare options but we caution you to approach every aspect of the process with careful planning, research, and always with supervised, expert medical care.

By Forum Staff

Mayor Eric Adams on Tuesday released a statement in response to President Joe Biden signing an executive order aimed at reducing gun violence across the nation:

“By taking concrete action to keep

guns out of the hands of criminals, President Biden is bolstering our work to keep New Yorkers safe. The president visited our city last February to underscore his commitment to tackling this crisis and, since then, we have seen real progress — including the first gun safety legislation in a generation pass Congress and new resources committed for law enforcement and our violence intervention partners.

“At the same time, there is only so much we can do through executive orders and law enforcement. We need real reform and Republicans in Congress must stop blocking gun safety legislation and must instead prioritize the safety of Americans over the profits of gun manufacturers.

“Our administration is working hard every day in partnership with local communities to end gun violence, and we are seeing real results in the reduction of shootings, murders, and overall crime across New York City. Yet, there are still illegal guns on our streets and senseless incidents of bloodshed continue, disproportionately impacting historically disenfranchised communities. Today’s multiple shootings in Manhattan involving young men are the perfect example of that. The Iron Pipeline dumping deadly weapons onto our streets is a clear and present danger to New Yorkers, and federal action is needed now to save lives.”

Home hormone testing definitely has a financial advantage. Most of the kits start under $100 and top out at $400, but one the associated drawbacks is not really knowing what to test for to get the answers you’re seeking could easily be a

So if you’re interested in pursuing this new opportunity for women’s health, we ask that you make wise choices and feel free to consult with us in search of the right option for you.

Until next week...

Addabbo Celebrates Opening of New District Office

By Michael V. Cusenza

State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) joined his staff on Saturday in welcoming constituents to his new district office at 84-16 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven.

While the office has been open since the State Senate’s legislative session began back in January, this party was organized when the front signage was installed, as a way to bring the community together and let everyone know that the office is open.

Addabbo’s previous district digs were located in Howard Beach on 102nd Street for the last 15 years.

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

PhotoPhoto Courtesy of Wikimedia/U.S. Department of Labor Mayor Adams

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/The White House President Joe Biden

Photo Courtesy of Eddie Earl

City Celebrates 20 years of 311 Service

By Forum Staff

Mayor Eric Adams on Thursday celebrated the 20th anniversary of the launch of the 311 service, the platform that provides New Yorkers with direct answers from City agencies.

Since it launched in March 2003, 311 has received more than 525 million contacts — through phone calls, texts, social media posts, website submissions, chat support, and a mobile app — from New Yorkers. As part of the celebration, Adams on Thursday released a State of 311 report detailing all-time contact statistics, peak moments of service, and some of the most popular service requests. Adams also released a video on Thursday reciting a list of the most outrageous questions and comments New Yorkers have made to 311 over its 20year span.

“Since its launch two decades ago, NYC311 has become an indispensable resource for New Yorkers looking to make a noise complaint, report a cleanliness issue, learn whether alternate side parking is in effect, and so much more,” said Adams. “Responding to 525 million contacts is a testament to the thousands of public servants who literally respond to the call of service each and every day. From day one, our administration has been focused on improving the customer experience to make city services more equitable and accessible for New Yorkers, and we are grateful for the critical role NYC311 has played in this effort.”

“NYC311 is our city government’s front door for information and services that improves the lives of New Yorkers,” said First Deputy Mayor Sheena Wright. “This milestone anniversary proves that two decades

of reliability, ingenuity, and commitment of the NYC311 team makes city government run better every day.”

The first call to NYC311 came on March 9, 2003 for a noise complaint in Jackson

Heights. Since that time, the service has expanded to take questions and comments not only via phone, but also via a mobile app, chat support, text, social media, and a website, and currently provides support in 175 languages. NYC311’s two decades of service is detailed in the State of 311 report, which was released on Thursday. Highlights of the report include:

• NYC311 has received more than 525 million customer contacts, 359 million of which were received by phone, 147 million through the website, 16 million through the NYC311 Mobile App, and the remaining contacts through other available forms of submission.

• The top three busiest call volumes took place during a blizzard in 2011, a blizzard in 2013, and Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

• The top inquiry of 2004 — the first full year of reporting — was for the removal of appliances using freon.

• The top inquiry of 2022, the most recent year of reporting, was for a parking ticket or camera violation.

At the start of his administration, Adams consolidated NYC311 with other technology agencies across the city to create the new New York City Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI). In 2022, OTI completed a major upgrade to NYC311’s technology architecture to ensure the longterm health of its systems.

NYC311 provides information and services for over 200 agencies and nonprofits. For more information, visit nyc. gov/311.

City Honors this Year’s ‘NYC Hunger Heroes’

By Forum Staff

Mayor Eric Adams, City Schools Chancellor David Banks, and No Kid Hungry New York on Tuesday recognized 35 “NYC Hunger Heroes” — extraordinary professionals from the City Department of Education’s Office of Food and Nutrition Services who have gone above and beyond to provide kids with access to nutritious meals every day.

These 35 individuals come from each of the city’s school districts and food service administration teams. For the first time, this year’s Hunger Heroes include inspectors and compliance professionals in addition to the dedicated cafeteria staff who directly serve 800,000 meals to students every day. With more than 400,000 children in New York City facing hunger, or about one in four, the heroes who plan, prepare, and serve school meals are on the front lines of this crisis.

“My mother was a school food worker; I saw how hard she worked. And I know how hard every one of our DOE cooks and food service workers works every day to deliver for our children with an extra garnish, a smile, and a word of encouragement,” said Adams. “One in four children in our city might experience hunger this

year, and that’s why it’s so important that our Hunger Heroes are helping to combat hunger across our city on a daily basis. Not all heroes wear capes, some wear aprons, and, today, we are proud to honor those heroes.”

“Our food service workers have a constant presence and play a pivotal role in the lives of our students,” added Banks. “Beyond preparing and serving delicious and nutritious food, they are friends, caretakers, and caring adults who check in on our

kids and ensure they receive the nourishment and support they need. There are no words to express my gratitude to the Hunger Heroes being recognized today and to all of the food service workers in schools across the city doing this critical work for our young people.”

2023 Queens Hunger Heroes:

• District 24: Barbara Targonska, School Lunch Aide (P.S. 290 A.C.E Academy for Scholars)

• District 25: Angela D’Amico, Se-

nior School Lunch Aide/Cook (I.S. 237 Rachel Carson)

• District 26: Diane Kokosis, School Lunch Assistant/Cook in Charge (Francis Lewis High School)

• District 27: Jasoda Sanassie, School Lunch Helper (Far Rockaway High School)

• District 28: Keisha James, Senior School Lunch Aide/Cook (J.H.S. 217 Robert A. Van Wyck)

• District 29: Janice Sutherland, Senior School Lunch Aide/Cook (P.S. 33 Edward M. Funk)

• District 30: Patricia Khayi, Senior School Lunch Aide/Cook (P.S. 166 The Henry Gradstein School)

“No matter what challenges children may face at home, they can count on our Hunger Heroes to provide nutritious meals every school day — often going above and beyond to make sure New York City’s kids have a healthy foundation to learn,” said Rachel Sabella, director, No Kid Hungry New York. “These are exemplary professionals who are vital to school communities, and we are grateful for their work. At No Kid Hungry, we know how much goes into planning, preparing, and serving school meals, and we celebrate the contributions of every food services professional.”

Courtesy of NYC311

Mayor Adams released the State of 311 report on Thursday.

Photo Courtesy of Google

The City has honored Jasoda Sanassie, school lunch helper at Far Rockaway High School (pictured), as a 2023 NYC Hunger Hero.

East Elmhurst Man Indicted for Kidnapping, Raping, Assaulting Three Young Women

By Forum Staff

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz on Friday announced that East Elmhurst resident Andres Portilla has been arraigned on an indictment charging him with kidnapping and sexually assaulting three young women whom he kept captive in his car.

Portilla, 28, was arraigned on a 56-count indictment charging him with kidnapping in the first and second degree; predatory sexual assault; assault in the first and second degree; criminal sexual act in the first,

second and third degree; rape in the first, second and third degree; sexual abuse in the first degree; criminal possession of a weapon in the third degree; and endangering the welfare of a child.

According to the charges:

• In September 2022, Portilla invited one of his victims, a minor, to an apartment in Queens, where he held her captive and perpetrated both sexual and physical assaults upon her resulting in permanent injuries.

• After vacating the apartment, Portilla held the girl captive in his car and

continued to perpetrate sexual and physical assaults against her, often using a dangerous instrument. While restraining the first victim inside his car, Portilla lured a second victim, also a minor, into the car, where he sexually assaulted her while threatening the use of a dangerous instrument.

• Portilla lured a third victim into his car under the guise of allowing her to use a phone charger. Portilla held her captive for days while sexually and physically assaulting her before threatening and releasing her. The victim made a report to the

police and underwent treatment at a local hospital.

After an intensive investigation, police were able to identify both the defendant and the car he was driving. A manhunt and vehicle chase ensued. Portilla was apprehended and taken into custody hours later.

“The brutality inflicted upon these vulnerable young women is unspeakable. This indictment is the first step toward providing some measure of justice to the victims and their families,” Katz said.

If convicted, Portilla faces consecutive 25-years-to-life in prison sentences.

Photo Courtesy of Google

Portilla was arraigned on Friday on a 56-count indictment.

File Photo

“The brutality inflicted upon these vulnerable young women is unspeakable,” DA Katz said.

Jamaica Man Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison for 2019 Fatal Shooting

By Forum Staff

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced on Tuesday that Jamaica resident Tyseam McRae has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for manslaughter, assault and robbery for three separate incidents, including the fatal shooting of an 18-yearold man in Rochdale in October 2019.

McRae, 21, pleaded guilty in January to manslaughter in the first degree, assault in the second degree and robbery in the first degree before Queens Supreme Court Justice Kenneth Holder, who imposed a 22year prison sentence followed by five years’ post-release supervision for manslaughter;

five years in prison and five years of post-release supervision for assault; and five years in prison and five years post-release supervision for robbery. The three sentences are concurrent.

According to the charges against McCrae:

On Oct. 18, 2017, at approximately 3:30 p.m., near the intersection of Sutphin Boulevard and Archer Avenue, McRae got into a livery cab with a male associate. When a female fellow passenger disembarked and paid her fare, McRae grabbed cash from the driver’s hand and pulled a knife and threatened him. When McRae and his associate got out of the cab, McRae picked up a rock

and threatened to hit the driver. He took the driver’s wallet and fled.

On May 10, 2019, at approximately 1:30 p.m., McRae and four associates became involved in a verbal dispute inside a McDonald’s restaurant on Baisley Boulevard near Bedell Street, accusing two 18-yearold males of providing information to the NYPD. McRae and his associates pushed, punched and kicked the two teens, then followed them as they attempted to get away. McRae grabbed one of the two and held him in place while one of his associates punched him in the face several times.

In a third incident, on Oct. 23, 2019, at approximately 7:53 p.m., McRae en -

countered 18-year-old David LaPointe of Elmont at a party and accused him of belonging to a rival gang. After LaPointe left the party, McRae and two associates followed him to 160th Street near 129th Avenue, where McRae confronted LaPointe and punched him in in the face. LaPointe ran away, heading eastbound on 129th Avenue. Using a .380-caliber pistol, McRae fired a single shot striking LaPointe in the back of his head. McCrae was arrested days after the incident.

“A violent, dangerous man is going to prison for a long time. The people of Queens will be safer for it,” Katz said.

Two Men Charged with Using Compromised Passwords, E-mail Accounts to Obtain Victims’ Personal Info

By Forum Staff

A criminal complaint was unsealed on Tuesday in federal court in Brooklyn charging Sagar Steven Singh and Nicholas Ceraolo with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit computer intrusions. The charges stem from Singh’s and Ceraolo’s efforts to extort victims by threatening to release their personal information online. Singh, 19, was arrested Tuesday morning in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and made his initial appearance Tuesday afternoon in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island.

Ceraolo, 25, a Queens resident, remains at large.

In pursuit of victims’ personal information, Singh and Ceraolo unlawfully used a police officer’s stolen password to access a restricted database maintained by a federal law enforcement agency that contains (among other data) detailed, nonpublic records of narcotics and currency seizures, as well as law enforcement intelligence reports. Ceraolo (with Singh’s knowledge) also accessed without authorization the email account of a foreign law enforcement

officer, and used it to defraud social media companies by making purported emergency requests for information about the companies’ users.

As alleged in the criminal complaint, Singh and Ceraolo belonged to a group called “ViLE.” Members of ViLE sought to collect victims’ personal information, such as names, physical addresses, telephone numbers, social security numbers and email addresses. ViLE then posted that information (or threatened to post it) on a public website administered by a ViLE member – an action known as “doxxing.” Victims could pay to have their information removed from or kept off the website.

As alleged in the complaint, in pursuit of victims’ personal information. Singh and Ceraolo used a police officer’s credentials to access without authorization a nonpublic, password-protected web portal (the “Portal”) maintained by a U.S. federal law enforcement agency, whose purpose is to share intelligence from government databases with state and local law enforcement agencies. After both Singh and Ceraolo accessed the Portal, Ceraolo wrote to Singh:

“were all gonna get raided one of these days i swear.” Later that day, Singh wrote to a contact that the “portal [] i accessed i was not supposed to be there not one bit.”

Singh said he had “jacked into a police officer’s account” and “that portal had some fucking potent tools.” Singh continued: “it gave me access to gov databases,” followed by the names of five search tools accessible through the Portal.

Within one day of this unauthorized access, Singh was using his access to the Portal to extort victims. Singh wrote to a victim (Victim-1) that he would “harm” Victim-1’s family unless Victim-1 gave Singh the credentials for Victim-1’s Instagram accounts – and appended Victim-1’s social security number, driver’s license number, home address, and other personal details. During the conversation, Singh told Victim-1 that he had “access to [] databases, which are federal, through [the] portal, i can request information on anyone in the US doesn’t matter who, nobody is safe.” Singh added: “you’re gonna comply to me if you don’t want anything negative to happen to your parents.” Singh ultimately di-

rected Victim-1 to sell Victim-1’s accounts and give the proceeds to Singh.

In addition to accessing the Portal without authorization, Ceraolo posed as a police officer to obtain subscriber information from various online service providers.

“Singh and Ceraolo aptly belonged to a group called, as their crime was, ‘Vile.’ That conduct ends today,” said Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace.

Photo Courtesy of Google

On Oct. 18, 2017, after getting into a cab at the intersection of Sutphin Boulevard and Archer Avenue, McRae later robbed the driver and threatened to hit him with a knife and a rock.

Photo Courtesy of Google

On Oct. 23, 2019, McRae shot and killed David LaPointe, 18, in Rochdale.

Photo Courtesy of U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of NY “Singh and Ceraolo aptly belonged to a group called, as their crime was, ‘Vile.’ That conduct ends today,” Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Peace said.

ACS Announces Recommended Awards for ‘Alternative to Detention’ Programs for Youth

By Forum Staff

The City Administration for Children’s Services on Monday announced the three organizations recommended for awards to operate the NYC Family Court Alternative to Detention (ATD) programs: Center for Alternative Sentencing and Employment Services (CASES), which will serve youth in Manhattan and the Bronx; Justice Innovation Center (JIC), which will serve youth in Queens and Staten Island; and Good Shepherd Services, which will serve youth in Brooklyn. ATD programs allow youth charged as juvenile delinquents in Family Court to remain at home with supervision and support while their case is pending, in lieu of entering a juvenile detention facility. The ATD programs have the capacity to serve up to 310 youth annually.

“Many young people in New York City just need a helping hand, and as someone who made mistakes as a young man, I know that juvenile detention is not always the best solution for young New Yorkers who might have made a mistake,” said Mayor Eric Adams. “Today’s announcement of the awards for the Alternative to Detention programs will allow our staff to focus on keeping young people at home in their community and connect them to services that will help put them on the path to a

brighter future.”

“Today’s announcement is an important step to support young people across the city that are justice-involved,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “These programs will help keep families together and provide sustained services for young people and their families as they work to establish a positive path forward. Thank you to our partner providers, to ACS, and to MOCJ

for their work to make these supports available to young people and families in all five boroughs.”

“As part of the mayor’s vision to achieve safety, equity and justice by going upstream, these Alternative to Detention programs provide youth with the services and supports they need in their communities. We at ACS know that when we invest in youth and surround them with positive opportunities, they thrive,” said ACS

Commissioner Jess Dannhauser. “We are pleased that ATD programs will be part of our continuum of services and look forward to working with CASES, JIC and Good Shepherd Services to improve outcomes for New York City’s youth.”

Starting July 1, 2023, ATD programs will transition from the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice (MOCJ) to ACS. ACS oversees a large part of the juvenile justice continuum, including intensive family therapeutic services, mentoring, secure and non-secure juvenile detention, and residential options for young people placed on Family Court cases (Close to Home). The addition of ATD programs will extend the menu of diversion services ACS can offer to youth in the Family Court system.

The ATD programs will provide individualized supervision and support to youth while avoiding admission to juvenile detention for youth who are safely able to remain in the community. The programs reduce recidivism and ensure they return to court for appearances. Youth involved in the ATD programs are connected to age appropriate vocational, educational and social programming, and have access to internships, stipends and other needed support. Overall, the program will promote positive behaviors, healthy relationships and problem-solving skills.

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Visits Borough for Conversation with Rep. Meng

By Forum Staff

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra visited Queens on Friday where he and U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) participated in a community conversation with city abortion providers to mark National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day.

This annual observance, held each year on March 10, recognizes the work of abortion providers (doctors, nurses, and other personnel) in New York and across the nation. Despite facing harassment and threats of violence, abortion providers continue to work tirelessly to ensure access to safe and legal abortion care.

The event featured local abortion providers sharing their stories and experiences of delivering reproductive health services to New Yorkers and their fight to protect reproductive freedoms, especially following the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe V. Wade last year. It also included abortion providers and leaders from the City and State Health Departments, as well as reproductive rights advocates from Queens and across New York City.

“I thank Secretary Becerra for coming to our borough to highlight National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day, and underscoring how vital reproductive freedom is in Queens and throughout our nation,” said Meng. “Abortion providers and our

city and state government partners are on the front lines working nonstop to ensure that safe and quality abortion care is accessible to New Yorkers. As a champion of reproductive rights, I will continue doing all I can to make sure that women have the right to make their own choices for their health. With abortion rights under attack in our country, especially since the overturning of Roe V. Wade, it is more important than ever to keep up this fight.”

“At HHS, we are staunchly committed to protecting and expanding access to reproductive health care, including abortion care, and we’ll never stop fighting so long as these rights and freedoms are under assault,” said Becerra.

The community conversation was held in Meng’s district in the auditorium of NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens in Jamaica.

“NYC Health + Hospitals is committed to ensuring access to safe, legal and afford-

able abortion care at all of its 11 hospitals by removing barriers and raising public awareness about women’s rights and the options available for those seeking abortions,” said Mitchell Katz, MD, president and CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals. “On Abortion Provider Appreciation Day, I want to recognize all of our staff who provide the highest quality care to our patients who need it.”

National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day was established in 1996 to show appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and others who serve as abortion care providers. It was created after a white supremacist, anti-abortion extremist murdered Dr. David Gunn on March 10, 1993, a doctor who was an abortion provider in Florida. It was the first known instance of the murder of an abortion provider.

NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest municipal health care system in the nation serving more than a million New Yorkers annually. It has a robust network of outpatient, neighborhood-based primary and specialty care centers and anchors care coordination with the system’s trauma centers, nursing homes, post-acute care centers, home care agency, and MetroPlus health plan—all supported by 11 essential hospitals. The health system treats patients regardless of immigration status or ability to pay.

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office Mayor Adams and ACS Commissioner Dannhauser

Photo Courtesy of Rep. Meng

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra and Rep. Meng on Friday at NYC Health + Hospitals/ Queens in Jamaica.

Lunch Blockbusters

If you think we are just breakfast, think again.

Steer Clear

You won't be asking where the beef is after your first bite of Nana's succulent house ground chicken burger. Served on grilled brioche, with tomato, avocado mousse and shoe string fries on the side

Paddy Whack Smash

Two prime beef patties, Cheddar, Mozarella, Swiss or American Cheese, with caramelized onions on Brioche or Ciabatta. Served with shoestring fries.

Lean & Mean

House smoked Pastrami or Corned Beef on Polish Rye or club roll, whole grain mustard, half sour pickle. add shoestring fries $3 50 add house made spicy slaw $2 50 add Rueben package $6.50

House Cobb

Iceberg wedge, grilled organic chicken breast, Blue crumble, Applewood slab bacon crumble, Heirloom Cherry Tomatoes dressed in house ranch or Blue cheese. add grilled shrimp $5.00

The BLT

Thick slab Applewood Bacon meets up with heirloom tomato and crisp organic greens on your choice of toasted sourdough, country white or polish rye dressed in house citrus blend or avocado mousse. Served with shoestring fries.

Nanagiana

Your choice chicken or eggplant. Golden browned eggplant planks or organic chicken breast, house marinara, finished with fresh Mozzarella served on grilled Ciabatta.

Grilled Chicken Caesar

Iced romaine, organic chicken breast, capers and house hail Ceasar cream dressing.

Grilled Shrimp Caesar add $5.

Ruben Rolls

Our twist on the classic egg roll, two golden fried rolls stuffed with house made corned beef, barrel cured sauerkraut and melted Swiss served with house made Ruben dip

House Chopt

Mixed greens, Bell peppers, golden beets, carrots, Heirloom Cherry Tomato and slivered Bermuda onion Dressed in your choice of lemon aioli or creamy avocado. add grilled chicken $3.50 add grilled shrimp $5.00

DENTAL Insurance

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS Index No. 710658/2022

Date Filed: 3/10/2023

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Plaintiff designates Queens County as the Place of Trial Designation of Venue is based upon the situs of the Subject Property

Subject Property: 129-34 155th Street a/k/a 12934 155th Street, Jamaica, NY 11434.

U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for MASTR Asset-Backed Securities Trust 2005-FRE1 Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-FRE1, Plaintiff,

-against-

Ann Marie Hurgus a/k/a Ann Marie A. Hurgus, if she be living or if she be dead, her spouses, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to Plaintiff; City of New York Environmental Control Board; City of New York Parking Violations Bureau; U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee under Pooling and Servicing Agreement dated November 1, 2005 MASTR Asset-Backed Securities Trust 2005-FRE1 Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates, Series 2005-FRE1; State of New York

“JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the Subject Property described in the Complaint, Defendants.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the service of the Summons; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Tracy Catapano-Fox, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Queens County, entered March 8, 2023 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Queens County Clerk’s Office.

THE OBJECT OF THE ACTION is to foreclose a mortgage recorded on August 22, 2005 at CRFN 2005000469726, in the Public Records of the County of Queens, State of New York, covering premises known as 129-34 155th Street a/k/a 12934 155th Street, Jamaica, NY 11434 a/k/a Block 12259, Lot 57, part of Old Lot 54.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you nad filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending payment to the mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: July 22, 2022

Rochester, NY

LOGS Legal Group LLP

By: Frank M. Cassara, Esq. Attorney for Plaintiff

175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624

Telephone: (585) 247-9000

#100251

Notice of formation of 47TH STREET LLC. Arts of Org filed with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/1/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy of process against LLC to: 22-45 47th St., Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of Formation of GLENDALE 75 PROPERTY, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/29/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 60 21 75th Ave., Glendale, NY 11385. Purpose: any lawful activities.

NOTICE OF FORMATION of limited liability company (LLC). Name: MJ-AN, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/24/2023. Office location: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and address SSNY shall mail a copy of process is 143-07 Cherry Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

5M74 LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/07/2023. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Peter Demertzis, 24-13 26th Street, Apt 1, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

ACCURATE RELIABLE TIMELY BOOKKEEPING LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY)12/19/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to DEBITA SINGH, 1044 130TH AVE APT 4B, JAMAICA, NY, 11434, USA. General Purpose

Notice of Formation of LRH Realty of Amsterdam LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/04/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Paregt Singh, 11 Allen St., New Hyde Park, NY 11040. Purpose: any lawful activities.

NORTHERN 409 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/31/23. 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, 144-49 Northern Boulevard, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Russ & Effie LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 1/6/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 63-55 74th St., Middle Village, NY 11379. General Purpose

Legal Notices

UVP COMMUNICATIONS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 11/22/2022 Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail to the LLC, 3418 NORTHERN BLVD. #B20, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY, 11101, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of PRIYA LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/12/13. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 179-36 Hillside Ave., Jamaica, NY 11432. 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.

J&J Maspeth Owner LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 02/08/2023 Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail to the LLC, 57-48 49th Place, Queens, NY 11378. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

MVP SECURITY LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 02/16/2023 Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail to the MVP SECURITY LLC, 3119 32ND ST. APT 11, ASTORIA, NY, 11106, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

BRONTE NORTH LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/17/2023. 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, 58-41 63rd St., Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of NEXGENERENTAL INC LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/18/2023. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: ANDY YU, 68-65 136th Street, Unit B, Flushing, ny 11367, USA. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of 1827 RENAISSANCE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/05/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o CB-Emmanuel Realty, LLC, 221-10 Jamaica Ave., LL1, Queens Village, NY 11428. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of ACTIVE LINK INSURANCE BROKERAGE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/23/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: THE LLC 6933 76TH STREET, MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY, 11379, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of LHR REALTY OF TROY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/14/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Parget Singh, 11 Allen St., New Hyde Park, NY 11040. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of 1827 RENAISSANCE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/05/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o CB-Emmanuel Realty, LLC, 22110 Jamaica Ave., LL1, Queens Village, NY 11428. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of LITTLE LANA DAYCARE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/21/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LITTLE LANA DAYCARE LLC, 10427 196TH STREET, 1ST FL, JAMAICA, NY, 11412, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of CANAR DC LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/20/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 111-47 41st Ave., Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Qualification of Emerald Trailers LLC. Authority filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/31/23. Office location: Queens County. LLC formed in New Jersey (NJ) on 06/09/22. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 2 Hudson Place, Ste. 100, Hoboken, NJ 07030, also the address to be maintained in NJ. Arts of Org. filed with the State Treasurer of Dept. of Treasury, Division of Revenue, 33 West State St. 5th Fl., Trenton, NJ 086081214. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of BINA READY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/24/23. 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, 108-12 69th Rd, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of EKB Holdings LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/24/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o Central Construction Management, 2504 40th Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of Yates Exterior Restoration Services LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/24/2023. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o Central Construction Management, 25-04 40th Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of VM 1112 44th LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/15/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o The Vorea Group LLC, 44-02 11th St., Ste.312, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of PSYLAX LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/25/2023. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: PSYLAX LLC, 80-24 138TH STREET,#2, QUEENS, NY, 11435, USA. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of GULAQUIN DC LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/20/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 100-10 34th Ave., Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of Igloo 548 50th LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/20/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Adam Joly, 44-02 11th St., Ste. 312, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of MEHAR REALTY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/07/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Dinesh Jain, 104-40 Queens Blvd. Apt. 22 B, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of FULL TIME SEWER LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/21/2023. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: FRANK DERESPINIS JR 11714 NEWPORT AVENUE ROCKAWAY PARK, NEW YORK11694. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of RYPHEN PRODUCTS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/17/23. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 179-36 Hillside Ave., Jamaica, NY 11432. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: RYAN SOLOMON & DAVID JEFFREY, 215-03 JAMAICA AVENUE, #1901, QUEENS VILLAGE, NY, 11428, USA. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

WHITESTONE

WELCOME TO THE MOST LUXURIOUS LIVING IN THE HEART OF BEECHHURST.

1 BEDROOM, 1 BATH WITH A TERRACE. MOVE IN READY. NEW APPLIANCES, QUARTZ COUNTERTOPS, FIREPLACE, AMENITIES INCLUDE

2 OUTDOOR POOLS, GYM, TENNIS COURT, CLUBHOUSE, RESTAURANT AND GROCERY STORE. ASSIGNED PARKING, WASHER AND DRYER ON EVERY FLOOR.

TWO FAMILY IN THE HEART OF HOWARD BEACH. FIRST FLOOR FEATURES 3 BEDROOMS, LIVING ROOM, DINING ROOM & EIK. SECOND FLOOR FEATURES 2 BEDROOMS, LIVING ROOM, DINING ROOM & EIK. FULL/FINISHED BASEMENT W/ HIGH CEILINGS & OPEN FLOOR PLAN. COMPLETE WITH A PRIVATE DRIVEWAY!