THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | NOVEMBER 3, 2022

VOL. 21 • NUMBER 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022

KILLER PAIN NY Drug OD Deaths Surged

Dramatically during Pandemic: Report

See Stories on Pages 2

Synthetic opioids like fentanyl—often mixed with other drugs—account for much of the increase in drug overdose fatalities in NY, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s analysis.

Photo Courtesy of DEA

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 1

New York Drug Overdose Deaths Surged During Pandemic: Comptroller

By Michael V. Cusenza

Pills. Powder. Needles. Narcan.

Twenty years ago, these words were not part of our daily vernacular.

These days in the Empire State, they are quickly on their way to becoming expected aspects of many autopsies.

Drug overdose fatalities surged during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York, with opioid-related overdose deaths increasing by 68% to nearly 5,000 individuals from 2019 to 2021, according to an analysis released Tuesday by New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The surge is largely due to a sharp increase in deaths from opioids related to illicit fentanyl and similar synthetic opioids. Overdose deaths statewide from opioids and all drugs (5,841) in 2021 surpassed the previous 2017 peak by more than 1,700 fatalities.

DiNapoli’s report found: • The share of drug overdose deaths in the state involving opioids increased to 85% in both 2020 and 2021 from 69% in 2010.

• In 2021, 30 New Yorkers per 100,000 died from drug overdoses and 25 per 100,000 New Yorkers died from opioid overdoses, compared to five in 2010. New York’s opioid overdose death rates exceeded national rates in both 2020 and 2021.

• Fatalities grew across all racial and ethnic groups. Death rates increased fivefold for Black New Yorkers, quadrupled for Hispanic or Latino New Yorkers, and nearly tripled for White New Yorkers. In 2020, death rates were highest for White New Yorkers at 28.7 per 100,000 people.

• In 2020, drug overdose death rates were higher than the statewide average (25.4 per 100,000) in 10 of the 15 counties for which Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data is available. Due to low death counts in most counties resulting in privacy and statistical reliability concerns, CDC data is only available for certain counties. The highest rate was in Dutchess County, where over 43 per 100,000 people died of drug overdoses, followed by Niagara County, the Bronx, and Monroe County.

Trends in Drug Overdose Deaths For the better part of a decade, drug overdose deaths were on the rise both in New York and across the country, growing 152% in the state between 2010-2017 compared to 83% nationally. Deaths in New York had peaked at almost 4,000 in 2017, when the federal government declared a nationwide opioid public health emergency.

The majority of overdose deaths were from opioids, both in New York and across the nation during this time period. Opioids include different classes of drugs, such as painkillers prescribed by doctors, as well as heroin and other illicit drugs. Nationally, opioid-related deaths grew from 55% to 68% of all drug overdose deaths between 2010 and 2017. In New York, the propor-

tion of opioid-related drug overdose deaths was greater, growing from 69% to 82% in that time period. Opioid overdose deaths surged by 200% in New York between 2010 and 2017. Opioid deaths then declined in New York for two consecutive years after the emergency declaration, only to increase again during the pandemic by 68%.

Synthetic opioids like fentanyl and tramadol – often mixed with other drugs – account for much of the increase in drug overdose fatalities in the state, growing from 11% of all drug overdose deaths in 2010 to 78% in 2021. The CDC reports that most recent cases of fentanyl-related overdose are linked to illicitly manufactured fentanyl, which is distributed through illegal drug

State Actions to Address the Opioid Epidemic New York has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in state and federal funding in prevention, treatment, recovery, harm reduction and education programs to address the opioid epidemic. According to the Division of the Budget, opioid-related spending by the State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) grew from $187.2 million in SFY 2011-12 to $246.2 million in SFY 2020-21.

The Executive projects that current year opioid-related spending will exceed $500 million, including $209 million in resources from an opioid tax, and litigation settlements with pharmaceutical manufacturers

File Photo

Several versions of fentanyl.

markets for its heroin-like effect and often added to other drugs because of its extreme potency, making the drugs cheaper, more powerful, more addictive, and more dangerous.

Significant increases in mental illness over the past decade, particularly among young adults, are a contributing factor to the growing incidence of substance use disorder and drug overdose deaths. In 2020, 9.7% of young adults aged 18-25, or 3.3 million individuals nationally, experienced serious mental illness, with less than 60% of affected individuals receiving treatment.

“Overdoses continue to wreck families and communities across New York, and the recent post-COVID increase in fatalities creates even more urgency that we do more,” said Dr. Jeffrey Reynolds, Family and Children’s Association President/CEO. “At the same time, it's critical that we recognize this crisis has moved steadily into communities of color and future funding decisions should reflect that fact. We are grateful for State Comptroller DiNapoli's continued focus on New York's opioid crisis, his thoughtful analysis of the current challenges and his willingness to ensure that prevention, access to treatment and support for people in recovery remains a priority.”

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the need for an all-out effort to mitigate this crisis,” said State Senator Pete Harckham, chair of the New York State Senate Committee on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse. “That means giving proper resources and support to stakeholders and those on the frontlines of Substance Use Disorder treatment, recovery, overdose prevention and harm reduction, so we can work together and save the lives of our loved ones and neighbors.”

DiNapoli’s report recommended that policymakers: • Seek continued improvements to care systems by improving coordination across state agencies, such as OASAS, the state Office of Mental Health and the state

and distributors. A portion of settlement funds secured by State Attorney General Letitia James will be deposited into an Opioid Settlement Fund, and an advisory board is required to provide recommendations by Nov. 1 annually on how those funds are allocated by the Legislature. Along with effective use of additional funds, DiNapoli noted workforce challenges facing treatment providers must also be addressed in order to overcome employee shortages, low morale and high rates of turnover.

OASAS finalized a plan in Jan. 2020 that established a series of priorities to address the state’s opioid crisis which included expanding access to medication-assisted treatment and enhancing treatment capacity for opioid addiction; using federal funding to implement treatment innovations in high-need counties; and providing overdose reversal training. Aside from using outcome studies to document the effectiveness of evidence-based programs and strategies, the comprehensive plan proposes few metrics for tracking implementation of its priorities for containing the state’s opioid epidemic.

“The shocking news in State Comptroller DiNapoli’s report on overdose deaths between 2019 and 2021 simply reconfirms

Department of Health.

• Bolster interventions to stem the tide on drug overdose deaths using evidence-based practices to achieve the most effective prevention, treatment and recovery outcomes.

• Improve efforts to track funding, as current financial reporting does not clearly identify total state, federal and local resources dedicated to addressing the opioid crisis.

• Establish clear performance targets and regular reporting of metrics, program evaluations, and outcomes.

• Direct funding and support toward communities facing the greatest challenges.

“Too many New Yorkers have died from the misuse of drugs, but the jump in these numbers is alarming. It is a tragedy that devastates families and impacts our communities in countless ways,” DiNapoli said.

“The data shows our battle against drug overdose deaths is far from over. State leaders must ensure an ongoing commitment of public resources and strategies, including new funding from legal settlements, and innovative, evidence-based solutions for the fight against this deadly epidemic to be effective.”

Couple Indicted Again for Richmond Hill Attack

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz on Thursday announced that Destiny Lebron and Gil Iphael have been indicted on charges for an August attack in Richmond Hill.

Lebron, 19, of Brooklyn, and Iphael, 22, of Valley Stream, were re-arrested and arraigned Thursday on an 14-count indictment charging them with kidnapping in the second degree, robbery in the first degree and two-counts of robbery in the second degree, assault in the second degree and third degree, unlawful imprisonment in the first degree and second degree, two-counts of grand larceny in the fourth degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree and petit larceny. If convicted on all three indictments, both defendants face a total of up to 75 years in prison.

According to the charges, on Aug. 14, the victim, a 23-year-old-male, went to 91-42 108th Street in response to an online prostitution advertisement.

As the victim entered the location, he was directed to wait inside a bedroom. Lebron entered the room and removed the victim’s shoes and socks. At that time, Iphael entered the room, threatened the victim and repeatedly punched the victim in the face, head and body. The defendants then applied a numbing agent to the victims’ toe, demanded money from the victim and attempted to make transfers from his CASH APP account. When the victim refused,

Let us begin helping you with a free consultation.

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The victim was attacked inside this home.

By Forum Staff

Your problems are our job.

Iphael used a tool and began to cut the victim’s toe and threatened to cut it off if the victim did not comply. The victim eventually complied.

Iphael then took the victim’s car keys and gave them to Lebron who removed the victims’ wallet from the car. From the wallet, the defendants took the victim’s identification and several licenses along with his debit and credit cards. They demanded that the victim give them his PIN# or face further harm. After receiving the victim’s PIN#, defendant Iphael left the room and went to a nearby deli and made a withdrawal from a cash machine. When he returned, he gave the card and PIN# to Lebron, who also made a cash withdrawal. The defendants then forced the victim to make a recording stating that he was at the location to engage in sexual activity with a 13-year-old girl and then threatened to post the video on the internet if he reported the incident to the police. Before defendant Iphael released the victim, he returned some of his items and further threatened to harm his family if he reported the incident to the police.

The victim went to a nearby urgent care facility where he received eight stitches to his toe and he immediately called the police.

“These defendants, who are thankfully off the streets, are accused of a spree of assault, kidnapping and robbery charges for their own financial benefit,” Katz said. “Both defendants are in custody and will be held accountable.”

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“Both defendants are in custody and will be held accountable,” DA Katz pledged.

Photo Courtesy of DA Katz

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

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 3

Addabbo Requests more than $700K in Funding for Area Police Precincts

By Fo r um S t a f f State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) recently requested more than $700,000 in funding for the police precincts in his newly drawn district to allow them to purchase vehicles and cameras for their officers.

Addabbo said he has requested $50,000 for the 102nd, 104th, 106th, and 112th precincts for them to buy one unmarked, midsized sedan or crossover vehicle for use by the Community Affairs officers, for a total of $200,000.

“Our Community Affairs Officers are a vital part of the NYPD team because they are the ones traveling through their sectors on a daily basis, and by doing this, they become trusted members of the community,” Addabbo said. “And when citizens know who their community officers are, it plays a major role in boosting police-community relationships. That type of relationship is crucial in helping to solve crimes and preventing crimes from happening in the first place.”

In addition to the vehicles, Addabbo has also requested funding for two ARGUS camera systems for each of the precincts. The camera system costs $65,000 per package, so the total funding for the two camera systems for the four police precincts comes out to $520,000. The senator’s office is in discussions with the precincts to use crime data to determine where the cameras should be placed.

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Forum Photo by Michael V. Cusenza

Addabbo said he has requested $50,000 for the 106th Precinct for it to buy one unmarked, midsized sedan or crossover vehicle for use by the Community Affairs officers.

Photo Courtesy of Google

Addabbo is trying to secure the money to get a similar vehicle for the 102nd Precinct.

“Cameras are critical tools used by the NYPD in their crime-fighting efforts, and this funding for two new camera systems for the four precincts in my new district will go a long way in ensuring the safety of all citizens,” Addabbo said. “I am proud to submit this request for funds and to support our hard-working men and women in the City Police Department.”

The requested funds for these projects still needs approval from the State Senate leadership, and Addabbo is working to secure the money through the allocation process.

Pol Secures $1.5M for Area Fire Depts.

The Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department

By Forum Staff As the community commemorated the 10-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) last weekend presented three large checks to area fire departments: the Broad Channel Volunteer Fire Department, the Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department, and Point Breeze Volunteer Fire Department.

Through her position in the Assembly, Pheffer Amato said, she was able to secure a combined total of $1,500,000.

Photo Courtesy of Google

Crowds at the three firehouses, the assemblywoman made the three announcements with crowds erupting into cheer. “In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy it was our Vollies who jumped in and helped all of us.

This is capital money that can be used to help further the good work these fire departments do in Roxbury, Broad Channel and Breezy Point. Whether it be expanding the building, buying needed equipment or lifesaving apparatuses, I am so proud to support their dedicated work with this funding. In this community we take care of each other, and as your Assemblywoman I am working to ensure that our fire departments and the good work they do continues,” said Pheffer Amato.

The Pharmacist’s Corner

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

EAT, DRINK AND PREPARE TO PUT OUT A FIRE The challenge of food and drink indulgences around the holidays is one that all of us face. The most common source of problems we encounter after overeating is dealing with the culprit we know as acid indigestion/aka heartburn.

Heartburn is the result of stomach acid splashing back into the esophagus, which creates that burning feeling we'd be better off without. Thankfully there are many products available both as prescriptions and OTC remedies that effectively neutralize the effects of gorging ourselves.

Reducing the production of acid in the stomach can be tackled through the use of preparations such as Priolosec OTC, Nexium 24 Hour, Pepcid, Zantac and Prevacid 24 Hour. These are all available in pill or capsule form as well as a variety of liquids and chewable tablets. When you know that your stomach is prone to producing excess acids, and all of us who suffer from the condition definitely know we do, and know it is wise to take whatever remedy you prefer in advance of the meal that you know is going to set your stomach aflame, but that you just can't miss.

Now if by some unfortunate chance you don't catch the fire before it starts to burn,

there is another class of fast acting preparations known as antacids. Like their name suggests, they work to neutralize the stomach acid that splashes back into your esophagus and creates a burning feeling. Remember it is not only food that causes a trigger for heartburn, which can also be brought on by chocolate, coffee, alcohol and cigarettes. . Some of the more common products readily available at your local pharmacy include, Tums, Mylanta, Gaviscon, Alka-Seltzer, Rolaids and Maalox.

While these products can offer you the almost instant relief you crave, remember that persistent symptoms may well be the sign of a much more serious problem than just over eating or eating the wrong foods.

Ulcers, gastritis and other serious conditions often send warning signs disguised as heartburn.

If you are experiencing symptoms with the feelings we have described, like burning, gas and bloating, on a frequent and regular basis, or if you experience the burning without having consumed anything you know to be bothersome you should speak to your local pharmacist and consult your doctor immediately.

These symptoms are not to be avoided.

Now go on and ENJOY!

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.

Kavanagh Named FDNY Commissioner

The Roxbury Volunteer Fire Department

The Point Breeze Volunteer Fire Department

Photo Courtesy of Google

Photo Courtesy of Raghunandan Reddy C

By Forum Staff Mayor Eric Adams on Thursday announced the appointment of, and swore in, Laura Kavanagh as commissioner of the City Fire Department.

According to Adams, Kavanagh brings years of experience, previously serving as first deputy commissioner and, most recently, as acting-Fire commissioner.

As leader of the FDNY, Kavanagh will oversee the day-to-day administration of the agency’s 17,000 employees and $2 billion budget.

“For nearly a decade, I have served, learned from and worked on behalf of the New York City Fire Department. I have seen the sacrifices our men and women make, the talent and training they possess, and the bravery they display saving lives and protecting our city. This is the great-

est city in the world and the greatest fire department in the world. To serve both is the honor of a lifetime,” Kavanagh said.

“I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to lead this great department, and I thank the more than 17,000 firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, fire marshals, fire inspectors and civilian personnel for all they do 24/7 to keep our city safe.”

City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (ROzone Park) congratulated Kavanagh on her appointment.

“Commissioner Kavanagh has proven herself to be a leader that has been on the ground with firefighters through some of their worst times. She has the knowledge and vision that will carry the department forward. As chairwoman of the Council Fire and Emergency Management Committee, I look forward to working with Commissioner Kavanagh to pass legislation that will ensure the safety of our fire fighters and our city’s residents,” Ariola added.

Kavanagh is the first woman to lead the FDNY in its 157-year history.

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office Newly minted City Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 5

JFK among Top 25 Airports with Largest Price Increases: Report

By Michael V. Cusenza

John F. Kennedy International Airport ranked among the 25 airports with the largest price increases as of the second quarter of 2022, according to SmartAsset, an online destination for consumer-focused financial information and advice.

According to SmartAsset, it analyzed airfare price increases nationally and across the 100 busiest airports (based on the total number of domestic passengers in 2021).

Key findings of SA’s analysis: • Average airfare prices skyrocketed, increasing nearly 21% over the second quarter of 2022. Data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics shows that from the first to second quarter of 2022, the average cost of a domestic flight in the U.S. increased by nearly 21% from $328 to $397.

• Passengers can expect to pay more than $500 on average at three airports. Dane County Regional (MSN) – which serves Madison, Wisconsin – has the highest average fare of $526. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport (BHM) follow closely behind with average airfares of $526 and $503, respectively.

• Western airports are seeing large increases in airfare. Six of the 10 airports with the largest price increases are in the

Photo Courtesy of JFK

John F. Kennedy International Airport ranked among the 25 airports with the largest price increases as of the second quarter of 2022.

West, including two in Washington, two in California, one in Idaho and one in Arizona. Of those, Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) ranks worst, with an average airfare of $474 in the second quarter of 2022 (42% and $140 higher than it was a year previously).

And airfare prices in 2022 continue to skyrocket, SA noted. Some cities have seen even larger recent increases than the nearly

21-percent national increase. Specifically, four airports had an increase of over 30 percent – three in California and one Arizona airport. Out of the 100 busiest airports in the U.S., just one experienced a decrease in airfare – Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

With the addition of Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to the

airports with an increase of over 30 percent, five airports have had an increase of roughly $100 or more between average airfare in the first and second quarters of 2022.

SmartAsset also provided financial tips for holiday travelers: • Let travel planning websites do the hard work for you. According to Andrew Rosen, Certified Financial Planner for Diversified LLC, “There are still deals to be had, particularly if you can be flexible in your travel. Set up alerts for your flights and keep an eye on your routes to see when you can find the best airfare, and then book it when it hits a rate that you're comfortable with.”

• Do the math to save more. Luckily, many U.S. cities offer access to more than one airport and give passengers the option to shop around for more affordable rates. “If you're lucky enough to live near more than one airport, price out driving to another airport nearby, as adding in a bit of a drive may still be cheaper than flying out of the closest airport to you,” says Andrew Rosen, Certified Financial Planner for Diversified LLC. • Work hard (today), so you can play hard (in retirement). Work with a financial advisor to put together or manage your current financial plan so you can travel more in your retirement.

Meng Calls on DEC to Give Borough Communities Fair Consideration Regarding Rail Waste Services

By Michael V. Cusenza

Meng said she has been fighting to strengthen the rules governing the waste-by-rail industry since she assumed office in 2013.

“Rail cars carrying construction and demolition waste, the same waste the Medford facility would export, have leaked contaminants and spilled debris into residential neighborhoods in Queens. Aligning with the NYSDEC’s mission statement to ‘conserve, improve and protect New York’s natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution,’ I ask that the concerns of these communities be given full and fair consideration when reviewing Peconic Environmental Service’s application,” Meng wrote.

Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing) announced Tuesday that she spearheaded an effort to the State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) urging it to give full and fair consideration to communities in Queens that may have their quality of life impacted by Peconic Environmental Services’ proposal for a new solid waste facility, a plan that would export waste through parts of Queens on trains.

“For years, pollution from inadequately containerized rail waste cars has threatened the quality of life and health of the communities it passes through,” Meng wrote in a letter to Susan Ackerman, Regional Permit Administrator for NYSDEC. “Without taking these concerns into account, this project threatens overburdened communities.”

“Constituents must be a part of the decision-making process when proposals that may affect their lives are considered,” said Meng. “I encourage the NYSDEC to carefully review this application and consider the needs of the neighborhoods that may be imPhoto Courtesy of DA Katz pacted. My constituents’ health File Photo “Constituents must be a part of the decision-making process when proposals and safety must be prioritized.”

Train cars filled with trash threaten the quality of life of communities through which they pass, Rep. Meng that may affect their lives are considered,” said Rep. Meng.

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said.

Accused Cambria Heights Bus Hijacker Facing up to 15 Years in Prison

By Forum Staff

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Saturday that Dwayne Gaddy has been charged withfor allegedly commandeering a crowded MTA bus in Cambria Heights on Thursday morning with what appeared to be a handgun.

All of the approximate 30 passengers were able to escape from the bus and the driver escaped through a window before Gaddy crashed the vehicle into a utility pole.

Gaddy, 44, of St. Albans, is currently being held on $500,000 cash bail. He was arraigned Saturday morning on a 10-count complaint charging him with grand larceny in the second and fourth degree, three counts of robbery in the second degree, two counts of assault in the second degree, reckless endangerment in the first degree, unlawful imprisonment in the first degree and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. If convicted, Gaddy faces up to 15 years in prison.

According to the charges, on Thursday, at approximately 7:30 a.m., the defendant ran in front of an eastbound Q4 MTA on Linden Boulevard while carrying a black bag and blocked the path of the vehicle. The defendant allegedly demanded to be let on board stating, “Let me on the bus, they are trying to kill me!”

Photo Courtesy of Google

After driving several more blocks, the driver was able to jump out of the vehicle, leaving the defendant alone on the bus near the intersection of 231st Street and Linden Boulevard.

Katz said when the operator refused to let him on the bus, the defendant then produced what appeared to be a firearm and pointed it at the vehicle. The bus operator opened the door, allowing the defendant to board, at which point Gaddy allegedly walked up and down the center aisle while holding the weapon. According to video surveillance later retrieved from inside the vehicle, the bus driver is

seen opening the doors so that approximately 30 passengers could safely disembark, likely preventing further harm, as the defendant stood next to the driver with the weapon.

Katz said that Gaddy allegedly demanded the driver continue driving the empty bus and said, “Please help me, they are trying to kill me. Just drive. No, I do not want to go to Francis Lewis. They are

all over Francis Lewis, they are trying to kill me over this girl.” While under duress, the bus driver continued turning down several streets at the defendant’s direction to avoid individuals the defendant claimed were trying to kill him. At some point, the defendant allegedly requested the police.

According to the complaint, as the bus driver continued driving the bus, the defendant claimed that an elderly pedestrian walking on the sidewalk is threatening him with a gun. The bus operator tried to reason with the defendant while opening the driver’s side window. After driving several more blocks, the driver was able to jump out of the vehicle, leaving the defendant alone on the bus near the intersection of 231st Street and Linden Boulevard. As alleged, the defendant immediately attempted to take the steering wheel and lost control of the bus, careening into a utility pole between 223rd and 234th streets.

Police apprehended Gaddy across the street from the collision and he was taken to a local hospital.

The recovered weapon used during the course of the incident was determined to be an air-soft pistol.

The MTA bus operator was transported to a local Queens hospital where he was treated for bruising to his elbow and hip, lacerations and abrasions to his arm and finger and substantial pain.

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City has Exceeded Commitment to Improve 1,000 Priority Intersections this Year: Administration

By Forum Staff Mayor Eric Adams and City Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez on Sunday announced that the administration has met and surpassed its goal of making safety improvements at 1,000 intersections in 2022. As of Sunday, DOT had completed safety upgrades at more than 1,200 intersections. Building on this success, Adams and Rodriguez set a new target of 1,400 intersections for safety improvements by the end of this year.

The administration’s focus on intersection safety reflects a data-driven approach to making the city’s streets safer, Adams and Rodriguez said. Crashes at intersections account for 50 percent of all fatalities and 70 percent of all injuries, as well as 55 percent of pedestrian fatalities and 79 percent of pedestrian injuries. So far this year, the City has recorded 88 pedestrian fatalities, among the fewest to date in the City’s recorded history.

DOT officials said that they have used the following tools to improve safety at intersections this year: Intersection-Focused Street Improvement Projects: DOT, this year, focused its comprehensive street redesigns on Vision Zero priority areas — locations where fatalities and serious injuries have occurred — and Priority Investment Areas as defined in the NYC Streets Plan. DOT has so far made improvements at more than 200 intersections through individual Street Improvement Projects, including the intersection of West 46th Street and Eighth Avenue, the site of Sunday’s event.

Signal Improvements: DOT’s suite of signal improvement tools includes pedestrian head-starts — known as Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPIs) — as well as new

Photo Courtesy of DOT

A map of the more than 1,200 intersections where DOT has made safety improvements.

signal installations and left-turn signal treatments. LPIs, which DOT installed more than 500 intersections, are proven to be highly effective — reducing crashes by as much as 60 percent. In addition to these core safety enhancements, DOT has also updated more than 380 intersections with Accessible Pedestrian Signals to bring

the full measure of signal safety treatments to people with low vision as part of the city’s larger commitment to accessibility. Intersections that only received Accessible Pedestrian Signals are not counted in the 1,200 intersection tally.

All-Way Stops: This year, DOT has dramatically increased its improvements to intersections without signals, adding new stop signs to calm traffic. With a special focus on intersections near schools, DOT has already added All-Way Stops at more than 350 intersections this year, the highest number ever in a single year.

Bike Corral Daylighting: DOT pledged to daylight 100 intersections with bike corrals in 2022 as part of its bike parking initiative. Bike corrals help provide visibility for everyone on the road and prevent drivers from cutting corners or making quick turns. With 32 completed and many currently being installed in the heart of construction season, DOT remains on track to meet this goal.

Doubling the Turn-Calming Program: DOT committed to doubling turn-calming efforts to force turns at slower speeds through the addition of low-level curbs and other vertical elements. With more than 100 intersections completed so far, DOT is on pace to reach the commitment of 200 intersections.

Raised Crosswalks: In January, Adams and Rodriguez announced that DOT would begin an ambitious program to ultimately construct 100 raised crosswalks at curb level each year. DOT is partnering closely with the City Department of Design and Construction on this overall program and, in 2022, will jointly construct a record number of 40 raised crosswalks at intersections this year, nearly seven times higher than last year.

Borough President Touts Nearly $11M in Capital Funding for Schools

By Forum Staff

that will allow P.S. 62 to better incorporate hydroponics into its already impressive science curriculum. It will also allow students to substantially increase their production of fruits and vegetables, allowing them to increase their capacity for growing and donating fresh and nutritious produce to people in need in the local neighborhood,” Richards said. “These kinds of facilities are critical educational tools for our children and I look forward to expanding our network of school hydroponic labs across the borough in the years to come.”

Besides PS 62, six other Queens schools will each be receiving $175,000 in capital funding for their hydroponics labs as part of the Borough President’s $10.785 million allocation. Another school, PS 111 in Long Island City, will receive $250,000 for a state-of-the-art combined science and hydroponics lab.

In addition, the FY 23 allocation supports science education at Bayside High School by providing $500,000 for their greenhouse. It also provides ten other schools with a combined $1.9 million to pay

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. on Tuesday announced his Office’s allocation of nearly $11 million in capital funding for schools in Fiscal Year 2023.

The announcement was made at The Chester Park Magnet School for Computer Science and Innovation (PS 62) in Richmond Hill, which received $175,000 in FY 23 capital funding from Richards’s Office. This money will to go toward the construction of a new hydroponics lab that the school will use to expand its existing hydroponics program, enhance its groundbreaking STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) curriculum, and combat food insecurity in the surrounding community.

The PS 62 allocation helps fulfill a commitment the Borough President made in his 2022 State of the Borough address, when he pledged to fund additional school hydroponics labs. These labs allow plants to be grown without soil and help students learn valuable lessons about bioscience and agriculture, while enabling them to grow produce they can donate to people in need.

“My $175,000 allocation will enable the Photo Courtesy of Google construction of a full-scale hydroponics lab PS 62 The Chester Park Magnet School for Computer Science and Innovation in Richmond Hill

for improvements to their science labs and the purchase of new science technology.

In addition, the allocation includes a combined $2.3 million for computers, iPads, SMARTboards and other learning technology that will be used to support the general curriculum of 23 Queens schools.

Other highlights from the allocation include: • A combined $1.2 million for auditorium upgrades at Maspeth High School, P.S. 171 in Ridgewood, M.S. 72 in Rochdale, and the World Journalism Preparatory School in Auburndale.

• $500,000 for an athletic field renovation at Veritas Academy at Flushing High School.

• $500,000 for P.S. 177 in Fresh Meadows to remodel a cafeteria to accommodate students with autism and other disabilities.

• A combined $450,000 for playground improvements at P.S. 153 in Maspeth and P.S. 239 in Ridgewood.

• $350,000 for a library upgrade at The Eagle Academy for Young Men III in St. Albans.

• $300,000 for a public address system at the Mathematics, Science Research and Technology Magnet School in Cambria Heights.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 9

City Successfully Halts another Ghost Gun Retailer from Unlawfully Selling Kits to New Yorkers: Adams

By Forum Staff City Mayor Eric Adams and New York City Corporation Counsel Sylvia HindsRadix on Thursday announced that the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York granted their motion for a preliminary injunction in a lawsuit against online ghost gun retailer Indie Guns that immediately halts the company from further selling and delivering ghost gun components to New York City residents.

The court issued the preliminary injunction after the city filed a lawsuit, earlier this summer, against the company and four

other companies unlawfully selling ghost gun kits to New Yorkers. The other four companies have already agreed to stop their unlawful behavior.

Those four companies are: • Rainer Arms, LLC, based in North Auburn, Washington; • Rock Slide USA, based in Broadway, North Carolina; • Salvo Technologies – doing business as 80P Builder (based in Largo, Florida); and • Arm or Ally, based in Kansas City, Missouri. “ We continue to work tirelessly to ensure our streets are safe from the deadly menace of ghost guns, and are

Photo Courtesy of Michael Appleton/Mayoral Photography Office

“We’ve already stopped four companies from their unlawful behavior, and today’s court decision marks another important step in our fight to rid our city of the scourge of ghost guns,” Mayor Adams said.

Courtesy of Indie Guns

Indie Guns website

today damming another river feeding the sea of gun violence in our city,” said Adams. “ We’ve already stopped four companies from their unlawful behavior, and today’s court decision marks another important step in our fight to rid our city of the scourge of ghost

guns. We will continue our efforts to hold the remaining defendant accountable to the fullest extent of the law as we work to stop gun violence across New York City.”

Hinds-Radix called Thursday “a win for public safety and the rule of law.”

City Launches Abortion Access Hub

By Forum Staff City Mayor Eric Adams and City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan on Tuesday announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind Abortion Access Hub. According to City officials, if financial assistance is needed in order to obtain an abortion, navigators will connect people seeking care to clinical partners to facilitate resources, including financial support for the procedure, transportation, and/or lodging. Callers who are eligible for Medicaid enrollment will be connected to providers who can enroll patients in Medicaid. Mayor Adams announced the hub in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization this past June that effectively overturned Roe v.

Wade.

Funded with a $1 million investment, the hub will be staffed by New York City Abortion Access Hub navigators and managers Monday through Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Staff will include individuals who are bilingual in English and Spanish, and the nine most spoken languages and American Sign Language will be available to callers. Staff members have been trained on customer service, confi-

Photo Courtesy of Caroline Willis/Mayoral Photography Office

“The Dobbs decision may have been the Supreme Court’s latest attack on human rights and health care, but New York City will continue to be a safe haven for anyone seeking to access a safe, legal abortion,” said Mayor Adams.

dentiality, sexual and reproductive justice, and gender-inclusive services.

All calls are confidential and anonymous. No identifying information will be collected or recorded. Callers will be asked about their needs and preferences, such as preferred day of the week, location, and interest in medication abortion, as well as whether they need assistance with cost or insurance. Responses will help navigators

10 | NOVEMBER 3, 2022 • Number 42 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

determine caller needs for connection to resources offered by referral partners.

“The Dobbs decision may have been the Supreme Court’s latest attack on human rights and health care, but New York City will continue to be a safe haven for anyone seeking to access a safe, legal abortion,” said Adams. “Our City’s Abortion Access Hub will ensure anyone seeking an abortion will be connected to licensed

providers across the five boroughs, as well as continue to access other resources and support. New York City will continue to respect, protect, and fulfill the core tenets of our fundamental right to choose, and will fight to ensure quality, affordable health care is accessible to all those who seek an abortion.”

Additionally, in response to the Dobbs Supreme Court decision in June, Adams signed multiple bills that strengthened abortion protections and made abortion medication free at all DOHMH clinics.

“New York City will not stand by passively when human rights are at stake,” said DOHMH Commissioner Dr. Ashwin Vasan. “Our city is a safe haven for so many, and we are proud to be the first in the nation to offer this type of service to people simply exercising their basic rights over their bodies and their health. When people’s liberties are threatened, our city will always stand on the side of health, human rights, justice, and care for those in need.”

“When we are in need, there are few things more comforting than knowing that we can reach out for resources and speak to someone on the other end of the line,” added Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne WilliamsIsom.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 11

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 13

Legal Notices Notice of Formation of E-J / KASSELMAN JV, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/31/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 46-41 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: any lawful activities.

2724 JSI EMPIRE LLC filed w/ SSNY on 9/14/22. Office: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: Jubar Chowdhury, 91-07 25th Ave Unit 690386, East Elmhurst, NY, 11369, USA. Purpose: any lawful.

VISHO MARKET LLC filed w/ SSNY on 9/21/22. Office: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: Beshoy Magdy Fawzy Basta, 6804 79th St., Apt 2R, Flushing, NY 11379, USA. Purpose: any lawful.

Notice of Formation of A MUFFIN AND A BUG PRODUCTIONS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/23/22. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Dana Chan, 168-09 33rd Ave, Flushing, NY, 11358, USA. Purpose: any lawful activities.

ACROPOLIS RENOVATIONS LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/31/22. Office: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 94-22 225th Street, Queens Village, NY 11428. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

KONDOR MANAGEMENT LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/26/2022. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: KONDOR MANAGEMENT LLC, 142-10B ROOSEVELT AVENUE, UNIT P24, FLUSHING, NY, 11354, USA.Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

TRANQUIL DREAMS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 9/25/2022.

Off. Loc.: Queens Co. SSNY desig. As agt. upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: CRYSTAL MOICES, 13923 227TH ST., QUEENS, NY, 11413, USA. General Purposes.

ROSE CASTLE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 8/26/2022. Off. Loc.: Queens Co. SSNY desig. As agt. upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 156 Maple Ave. Westbury, NY 11590.

General Purposes.

HEDWIG PUBLISHING LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/08/2022. Office loc: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LEGALINC CORPORATE SERVICES INC.1967 WEHRLE DRIVE, SUITE 1 #086, BUFFALO, NY, 14221, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

AMIR 115TH STREET LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/04/2022. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 86-30 108th Street, Richmond Hill, NY 11418. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

111-10 Owners LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 6/17/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Mohammed Hossain, 143-05 85th Dr. Briarwood, NY 11435. General Purpose FAVORITE VEGETABLE LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 09/23/2022. City: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to MATTHEW DURKIN, P.O BOX 2399, AASTORIA, NY, 11102, USA. General Purpose RHYTHM AND KDNNS, LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 8/17/2022. Cty: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to KIERAN DENNIS, 2735 21ST STREET, 7C, ASTORIA, NY, 11102- 4227, USA. GeneralPurpose RAMBLE & ROAM CO LLC Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 09/06/2022. City: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMAPNY, 61W16TH RD, BROAD CHANNEL, NY, 11693, USA. General Purpose

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76-05 113th St. LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 9/15/2022. Cty: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Lonnie G. Tishman, Esq., 980 Broadway, #532, Thornwood, NY 10954. General Purpose

49 NORTHERN BLVD. LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/30/22. Office: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it maybe served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 91-10Metropolitan Avenue, Rego Park,NY 11374. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

A Notice of Formation of Jin Xin Realty LLC, Art. of Org. filed Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/1/2022. Office location: Queens County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: The LLC, 27-13 Utopia Pkwy, Flushing, NY 11358. Purpose: any lawful activity.

AHAA Management LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 8/24/2022. Cty: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Aaron Ivatorov, 211 Beach 148th St., Neponsit, NY 11694. General Purpose

CAVALIERE 6617 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/20/22.

Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 6906 Grand Avenue, Maspeth, NY 11378.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

104-14 118 STREET LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/25/2022.

Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: Kevin Kalyan, 86-30 108th Street, Richmond Hill, NY 11418. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Middle Village Enterprises, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/13/2022. Cty: Queens.

SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Eric Faulkner, 6430 69th Pl., Middle Village, NY 11379. General Purpose

The Kidz Campus LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/27/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 134-01 89th Ave., 2nd Fl., Richmond Hill, NY 11418. General Purpose W & C PLAZA LLC filed Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/27/2022.

Office located in Queens County. SSNY has been designated for service of process and shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 10867 Roosevelt Ave Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: any lawful act.

B HARRIS CONSULTING LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/26/2022. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: BRYAN HARRIS, 6861 YELLOWSTONE BLVD, APT 615, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375, USA.. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 42 • NOVEMBER 3, 2022 | 15

16 | NOVEMBER 3, 2022 • Number 42 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP