THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | OCTOBER 7, 2021

VOL. 21 • NUMBER 24 • OCTOBER 7, 2021

LITTLE RICHIE’S BIG PROBLEM

Autistic Howard Beach Student Misses Weeks of School Due to Bus Company Woes: Mom

See Story on Page 2

Connie Pugliese told The Forum this week that her son, David, has only been to school a grand total of three days since Sept. 13 because of Ozone Park’s Little Richie Bus Service, Inc. Photo by Michael V. Cusenza

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Autistic Howard Beach Student Misses Weeks of School Due to Lax Bus Company: Parent “On the first day of school, David was dressed and ready to go—but [the bus never] showed up,” Connie said. “I’m getting him dressed like a mom waiting for a chariot that doesn’t show up.”

Connie told The Forum that the first two weeks of school “were horrendous.” And since then, the bus either shows up late or not at all—at Shield or the Pugliese home.

And when the bus does arrive, many of the drivers and matrons are rude and dismissive.

Little Richie Bus Service, Inc. is headquartered on Atlantic Avenue in Ozone Park.

By Michael V. Cusenza It is one of myriad nightmares that parents try so hard to bury deep down in that overstuffed mental foot locker that every guardian has: their child not being picked up by their school bus.

In Connie Pugliese’s case, this nightmare has become reality—more often than not.

The Howard Beach mom told The Forum this week that since the first day of school, Sept. 13, her son David, 18, has been to school a grand total of three days. She

“I can’t do this anymore,” an exasperated Connie said. “I can’t have a knot in my stomach getting nervous all day at work thinking about him…you’re taking away something that he seriously loves to do.”

Connie Pugliese said she feels like she’s running out of options.

“I’ve never heard of a job where you show up when you want—who does that?!” she exclaimed.

“At this point I’m ready to call a lawyer. My son has special needs. He needs to be in school.”

Photo Courtesy of Google

has pointed her finger at Ozone Park’s Little Richie Bus Service, Inc. as the culprit.

David Pugliese is autistic. He has attended The Shield Institute on Roosevelt Avenue in Flushing since the 3rd grade; and for the past 4-5 years, David has finished his school days at the New York Families for Autistic Children facility on Cross Bay Boulevard in Howard Beach.

“He looks forward to going to both every Photo Courtesy of Google day,” Connie said.

After attending The Shield Institute in Flushing, David Pugliese is scheduled to end his school days at NYFAC in However, David has missed Shield more Howard Beach. He loves both facilities, his mom told The Forum. often than not this school year.

Richmond Hill Man Indicted for Transporting Firearms, Ammo into NY after Gun Show Purchase

By Forum Staff A borough grand jury has indicted a Richmond Hill man for allegedly purchasing a cache of high-capacity magazines, firearm components and ammunition at a gun show in Pennsylvania and Bringing them back to New York—where all are illegal to possess, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Friday.

Police also allegedly recovered a stockpile of illegal guns, high-capacity magazines, silencers, and ammunition in the defendant’s 85th Drive home, Katz noted.

Richard McCormick, 42, was arraigned Thursday on a 120-count indictment charging him with attempted criminal possession of a weapon in the second and third degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the third and fourth degree, manufacture, transport, disposition and defacement of weapons and dangerous instruments and appliances, criminal possession of a firearm, attempted criminal possession of a firearm and unlawful possession of pistol ammunition. McCormick was ordered to return to court on Oct. 29.

As alleged, on August 15, 2021, shortly after 10 a.m., the defendant was observed purchasing high-capacity magazines, firearm components and ammunition at the Oaks Gun Show in Pennsylvania, loading them into a Black 2021 Cadillac Escalade and then driving through New Jersey and into New York City via the George Washington Bridge.

Shortly after entering New York City, the defendant was pulled over by members of the Port Authority Police Department who were assisting members of the New York State Police conducting the investigation.

According to the charges, police seized the following items from the vehicle: • 45 high-capacity magazines • An upper slide and barrel for a 9mm pistol • A trigger assembly • 15 rounds of 12-gauge slug ammunition • 1,000 rounds of 7.62 rifle ammunition • A hook knife and switchblade knife • 15 rounds of 12-gauge buckshot ammunition • 100 rounds of 9mm ammunition • 1 Billy Club • 1 Expandable Baton Katz said that during the stop, McCormick allegedly told police that everything in the car was his. He was bringing it to his home in Queens.

According to the indictment, a court-authorized search warrant was executed by the police to search McCormick’s home in Richmond Hill. At that location, law enforcement officers seized approximately $8,500 in cash and more weapons and ammunition.

In addition, the following items were allegedly recovered from McCormick’s residence: • A package containing all parts needed to assemble a 9mm SCCY pistol

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“This indictment sends a clear message that those who purchase and transport weapons illegally into our communities will be held accountable,” DA Katz said.

• Parts needed to assemble a polymer80 .45 caliber ACP pistol • The parts to assemble a 9mm semi-automatic pistol • 5 high-capacity magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds • 4 firearm silencers • A set of brass knuckles • 2 switchblade knives • 3 finished upper receivers for pistols • 9,991 bullets for various calibers of weapons, including 9mm and .45 caliber firearms

File Photo

• Numerous firearms-related components and parts for assembling or manufacturing pistols, rifles, and revolvers, and • Mail and other items with the defendants’ names and the address of the location “This indictment sends a clear message that those who purchase and transport weapons illegally into our communities will be held accountable,” Katz said. “We cannot allow weapons and gun violence to become the norm here in Queens County.”

If convicted, McCormick faces up to 20 years in prison.

Brennan Succeeds DiMarzio as Bishop of DOB

By Forum Staff Pope Francis has named the Most Rev. Robert Brennan as the eighth Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn. The appointment was announced last Wednesday by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States.

The Most Rev. Nicholas DiMarzio, Bishop of Brooklyn, who turned 75 years of age on June 16, 2019, had submitted his resignation on that date as required by Canon Law. His resignation was accepted on Sept. 29, 2021, by Pope Francis.

“In the selection of Bishop Robert Brennan, the Holy Father has called upon a native New Yorker to return to lead the faithful of Brooklyn and Queens. On behalf of the Diocese of Brooklyn, I welcome Bishop Brennan who I have known for many years, with confidence in his ability to lead our Catholic community and build upon the pastoral achievements we have made. It has truly been an honor to serve as Bishop of the Diocese of Brooklyn for 18 years,” DiMarzio said.

“I came to know amazing people in the Diocese of Columbus and there is a tremendous sadness in leaving them behind. As I prepare for a return to New York, I am ready and eager to embrace the people of Brooklyn and Queens as their pastor. Knowing we are loved by Jesus, we will strive to show others his face, bearing the Joy of the Gospel and the Splendor of Truth. In

The Most Rev. Nicholas DiMarzio

Photo Courtesy of U.S. Army

Bishop Robert Brennan

Photo Courtesy of the Diocese of Columbus

the end, that’s what it is all about – in Columbus, Brooklyn, and around the world,” said Bishop Brennan, the current Bishop of the Diocese of Columbus.

Bishop Brennan was born on June 7, 1962, to Robert and Patricia Brennan in the Bronx and was raised in Lindenhurst, Long Island. Bishop Brennan attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School in Lindenhurst and St. John the Baptist Diocesan High School in West Islip. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mathematics and computer science from St. John’s University in Queens.

Bishop Brennan completed his studies for the priesthood at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception in Huntington, New York, and was ordained a priest of the Diocese of Rockville Centre on May 27, 1989, by thenBishop John McGann. His first parish assignment was at the Church of St. Patrick in Smithtown. In 1994, he was appointed Secretary to the Bishop and served in such capacity for three bishops: Bishops John McGann, James McHugh, and William Murphy. He has previously served as the Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia for the Diocese of Rockville Centre and was ordained an Auxiliary Bishop for the Diocese of Rockville Centre on July 25, 2012.

Bishop Brennan was appointed the 12th Bishop of Columbus on Jan. 31, 2019, and was installed on March 29, 2019.

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Veterans Honored at Addabbo BBQ

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo

Senator Addabbo and Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato help serve food at Addabbo’s 12th annual Veterans BBQ.

By Forum Staff Veterans, their families and friends, and grateful Queens County residents recently gathered at the Howard Beach Motor Boat Club for State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr.’s (DHoward Beach) annual Veterans BBQ. “This was the 12th year that I have held this event, and after COVID forced us to do a grab-and-go lunch last year, I really wanted to make this one special,” Addabbo said. “I was so happy to see our veterans come out to the Howard Beach Motor Club and safely

celebrate. As I like to say, every day is Veteran’s Day, and I am proud that the community was able to come together for such a great event and show our veterans how much they are appreciated.”

The senator said that a special thanks goes out to the HBMBC for hosting the event and their staff for helping to cook and serve the food, Laura Lee and Richie Pullara for providing the entertainment, Pat Connolly and Mike Iannazzo for helping to put the event together, as well as Nick the Balloonatic, SammyLee Cre-

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Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo

As I like to say, every day is Veteran’s Day, and I am proud that the community was able to come together for such a great event and show our veterans how much they are appreciated,” Sen. Addabbo said.

ations, Isabella Priolo, Julianna Piazza, Gemma Vallely, Vanessa Guzzo, Dawn Marie Napolitano, Bianca Zelaya, Jimmy Porth, John Schupak, Eddie Earl, Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (DHoward Beach), Councilman Eric Ulrich (D-Howard Beach), Deputy Queens Borough President Rhonda Binda, and the Addabbo team staff.

Addabbo also said that he wanted to thank the local businesses that participated in the event by making donations: • Brothers Ravioli

• Bruno’s Ristorante • C&C Italian Deli • Cross Bay Diner • Danny’s Szechuan • DiVino Pizzeria • Gino’s Pizzeria • LaVilla Pizzeria • Lenny’s Clam Bar • McDonald’s • New Park Pizza • Oxford Bakery • Russo’s on the Bay • Sugar Bun Bakery

Renters May be Eligible for Ida Assistance: FEMA

By Forum Staff Federal disaster assistance is not just for homeowners; it’s also available to eligible renters, and can cover such expenses as furniture, job-related equipment, vehicle repair, even disaster-caused medical and dental bills, the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced Thursday.

Renters in Queens, the Bronx, Kings, Nassau, Staten Island, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties who had damage, losses or are unable to live in their homes after Hurricane Ida may be eligible for help from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

If you have renter’s insurance, first call your insurance provider to file a claim.

Then apply with FEMA. If you are insured, you must provide FEMA with information from your insurance provider, which may include a settlement or denial.

FEMA rental assistance is intended to cover the monthly rent and cost of essential utilities (i.e., gas, electric and water).

FEMA grants may also be used for security deposits but not for telephone, cable or internet service.

Renters must be able to prove they occupied the disaster-damaged primary residence before receiving FEMA Housing Assistance and some types of FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (i.e., for personal property and for moving and storage expenses).

To prove occupancy, a survivor may submit to FEMA: a lease or housing agreement, rent receipts, utility bills, merchant’s statement, public official’s statement, identification cards, social service organization documents, local school documents, federal or state benefit documents, motor vehicle registration, affidavits of residency or other court documentation and mobile home park documents. FEMA’s Helpline specialists at (800) 621-3362 (711/VRS) can provide more information about ac-

ceptable documents, their dates and descriptions.

Renters may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration, which provides low-interest disaster loans to survivors. SBA loans can help with losses not covered by insurance. Renters can apply for loans up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed household contents including clothing, furniture, appliances and other personal property including vehicles. Those who do not qualify for an SBA loan may be referred back to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance grant program.

If you are referred to SBA, you should complete and submit the application. If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept the loan but failing to submit the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance.

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance: • Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-3362 (711/VRS).

Lines are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week, and operators can connect you to a specialist who speaks your language. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA also has opened Disaster Recovery Centers where you can meet faceto-face with FEMA staff and representatives of other federal and state agencies who can provide information about disaster assistance that may be available to you. To find a recovery center near you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

To apply for an SBA loan, visit SBA’s secure website at https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov. You can also email DisasterCustomerService@SBA.gov or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 for more information.

The last day to apply for FEMA assistance is Friday, Nov. 5.

The Pharmacist’s Corner

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

CHRONIC CONDITIONS CAN LOWER YOUR TOLERANCE TO COLD WEATHER If you wonder why you’ve become more sensitive to cold weather, you should be aware that certain chronic conditions could definitely contribute to that. If you or a loved one suffer from anemia, anorexia, blood vessel problems, such as Raynaud Phenomenon,chronic severe illness, general poor health, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or a problem with the hypothalamus

be said. Except that keeping extras on hand in case they get wet is a great idea.

STAY WARM INSIDE

Staying warm inside the house is something you surely need to pay close attention to. It’s not just the chill of the outdoors that can lower your body temperature. Most importantly remember to leave the bare foot experience for the But you can adjust to stay warm during the sand on the beach not your house. upcoming winter months and we’d like to tell BYOB you just how to do that.

Well not exactly. Although a nice nip of branWEAR SMART LAYERS dy can surely take the chill out, we are not talking We’ve all been told to keep warmer by dress- about that B. It’s always a great idea to have a blaning in layers but an important suggestion that ket on hand for any outdoor event where you may may go overlooked is that we have to be choosy have to sit outside in the cold. Toss your favorite about the layers. Don’t just pile them on. Choose fleece in the back of the car so you never forget it. fabric wisely. It should keep you warm but also There In addition to these suggestions, not cause you to overheat. Use a base layer with moisture wicking fabric, a middle for insulation there are also many items available for purchase, such as hand and toe warmers that can be easand a top layer with water and wind protection.

MORE ABOUT THE FABRIC YOU ily stored or carried around with you. If you are home, there is something very comforting CHOOSE Don’t pick cotton—especially to go right about a hot water bottle on your feet. Microup against your skin. While it can be deceiv- waveable grain wraps also do the trick quite ingly warm, it absorbs moisture and when you nicely; especially pleasing are those that have an sweat, that will make you feel cold. Instead look aromatherapy component. to wool and flannel.

So please don’t sweat staying warm and NEVER LEAVE HOME WITHOUT always remember if you have questions we are THEM happy to answer them for you.

Until next week!

Hat, scarf and gloves.. Nothing else needs to 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.

Man Indicted in Death of Forest Park Worker

By Forum Staff A borough grand jury has indicted a Pennsylvania man for allegedly tossing an elderly employee to the ground on the Forest Park Golf Course in September 2020, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced Friday.

William Hinchey, 79, succumbed to his injuries days later, Katz added.

David Mangaran, 20, was arraigned Thursday on a three-count indictment charging him with two counts of assault in the second degree and criminally negligent

homicide. Mangaran was ordered to return to court on Dec. 21.

According to the charges, around 3 p.m. on Sept. 8, 2020, Mangaran was on a bicycle on the grounds of the Forest Park Golf Course when Hinchey approached in a golf cart to address Mangaran being on the property. Moments later, Mangaran allegedly grabbed the elderly man, forcefully pulling him from the cart and dragging him across the pavement and then threw him to the ground.

Hinchey was taken to a nearby hospital with a fractured femur. Hinchey died three days later as a result of the attack.

“Physical violence is never the appropriate response during a confrontation.

The victim was a senior citizen, whose life was tragically cut short due to the alleged actions of this defendant,” Katz said. “The young man charged in this case will be brought to justice in our Courts.”

If convicted, Mangaran faces up to seven years in prison.

Physical violence is never the appropriate response during a confrontation,” DA Katz said.

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Opioid Deaths Continue to Rise as Delta Variant Looms

By Michael V. Cusenza Paul Christo, M.D., an associate professor in the Division of Pain Medicine at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, recently reminded those battling addiction to make use of telemedicine and tele-mental health services that emerged as valuable resources in 2020; and, he adds, clinicians need to advocate to their patients that online treatment options are available.

“The number of fatalities from opioidrelated overdoses could be nearly 30 percent higher than reported due to missing information or incomplete death records,” he said. “The worst fear is that because of social isolation, people are not being found or treated immediately.”

The opioid epidemic today progressed in three phases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The first involves deaths caused by prescription opioids, the second, an increase in heroin use, and the third, a surge in the use of synthetic opioids or fentanyl. Experts say the U.S. is right in the middle of the third phase of the epidemic, due to the increasing availability of fentanyl and increasing rates of overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids.

According to a recent study there were 632,331 drug overdoses between 1999 and 2016. Most of these deaths (78.2 percent) were drug overdoses with known drug classification. Moreover, 21.8 percent were un-

Photo Courtesy of CDC

There were over 70,000 drug overdose deaths in 2017, according to an estimate from the CDC. Based on findings from the new study, over half of those deaths — about 47,000 — are suspected of having involved opioids.

classified drug overdoses. A further investigation revealed that for unclassified drug overdoses, 71.8 percent involved opioids, translating to 99,160 additional opioid-related deaths.

There were over 70,000 drug overdose deaths in 2017, according to an estimate from the CDC. Based on findings from the new study, over half of those deaths — about 47,000 — are suspected of having involved opioids.

Another study on opioid overdoses found that the number of drug overdose deaths decreased by 4 percent from 2017 to 2018. In 2018, more than 67,000 people died from drug overdoses, making it a leading cause of injury-related death in the United States. Almost 70 percent involved a prescription or illicit opioid of those deaths.

“COVID 19 impacted the drug supply chain by closing borders on some regions,

and it led to the higher death rate,” Christo explained. He added that drugs become more challenging to get, and the potency of overdose goes up. It also impacts the price, everything goes up, and in that sense, it becomes more deadly each day, according to Christo.

Indeed, in July, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz noted that drug overdose deaths in The World’s Borough surged during the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Katz, in 2020, there were 391 overdose deaths, a 45.5 percent increase over 2019, when there were 268 overdose deaths.

According to data compiled from the City Police Department and the Office of the City Medical Examiner, 71 percent of all suspected drug overdose deaths in Queens are related to fentanyl and/or fentanyl derivatives.

“While there were 82 homicides in Queens last year, there were nearly five times as many deaths due to drug overdoses, and the overwhelming majority were attributed to fentanyl. Fentanyl is a dangerous, lethal drug—and often people don’t even know they are taking it because it is mixed with other drugs or sold as pills,” Katz said. “Addressing this epidemic remains one of the greatest public health challenges facing current and future generations of Queens residents.”

Three Current and Former Queens Cops Charged with Bribery bribery scheme, prosecutors announced. In ex- scenes and remove damaged vehicles. In exchange change for bribes, the two current cops allegedly for steering the removal and repair of damaged vesteered damaged vehicles to a tow truck company hicles to Perri’s business, Perri paid Davneiro and Osma thousands of dollars in cash bribes. operated by the former officer.

“As alleged in the indictment, these defendants James Davneiro, 42, Giancarlo Osma, 39, and Michael Perri, 39, have been charged with one count of disgraced their badges and betrayed the public trust conspiracy to violate the Travel Act and one count of and their oaths as police officers by lining their using interstate facilities to commit bribery. During pockets with cash bribes,” said Acting Brooklyn U. the relevant period, Davneiro, Osma, and Perri were S. Attorney Jacquelyn Kasulis. “ We will continue to NYPD officers assigned to the 107th Precinct in Fresh root out and prosecute corruption by those who are Meadows. Perri retired from the NYPD in June 2020. sworn to enforce and uphold the law.”

If convicted, the defendants face up to five years Beginning in approximately May 2020, after Davneiro and Osma responded as NYPD officers in prison. to automobile accidents, they would steer the damaged vehicles to a licensed tow trucking and automobile repair business operated

by Perri, instead of using the NYPD’s DirectPhoto Courtesy of U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of NY ed Accident Response “As alleged in the indictment, these defendants disgraced their badges and Program, as legally rebetrayed the public trust and their oaths as police officers by lining their quired. That program pockets with cash bribes,” Acting Brooklyn U. S. Attorney Kasulis said. requires the NYPD to

By Forum Staff identif y appropriate licensed tow trucking An indictment was unsealed Friday in federal and automobile repair court in Brooklyn charging two City cops and one businesses to respond Photo Courtesy of Google retired NYPD officer for their alleged roles in a to automobile accident 107th Precinct stationhouse in Fresh Meadows.

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Pastor Stephen Roser Howard Beach Assembly of God The problem-prone, task-oriented, fastpaced lifestyle that most of us are forced to live leaves us emotionally and spiritually fatigued, while it crowds out the whispers of God’s voice in our hearts. We face endless “to-do” lists for family, work, and community organizations which add a weight to our souls. Often a good night’s sleep fails to truly refresh us. We sometimes feel that it is all we can do to keep up with the pace.

Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking Glass captures this predicament well by making the character of Red Queen say to Alice, “Now here, you see, it takes all the running you can do to keep the same place. If you want to get somewhere else, you must run at least twice as fast as that!” Such frantic activity is a symptom of a deeper spiritual emptiness that drives us to search for meaning in something larger than ourselves.

On the other hand, people with the op-

posite lifestyle, the sick, the poor, and the unemployed rarely claim to have found inner rest. The boredom etched on their faces and the lethargic pace with which they walk proves that release from labor does not guarantee rest. In fact, people with a lot of free time frequently long for release from a life of monotony and boredom.

Our restlessness is a symptom of a dysfunctional relationship with God, and neither a faster nor a slower pace will remove it. The human soul can only find rest in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Saint Augustine said it well, “Thou hast made us for thyself and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in thee.”

To this restless, fatigued generation, wandering in a spiritual wilderness, the Savior calls, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

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As Rate of Military Suicides Increases, Pol Pushes for Improved Access to Mental Health Care

By Forum Staff

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) on Thursday held a video press conference to address the rising rate of suicide in the military—a crisis in New York State and across the country. A recent study conducted by the Cost of War Project shows that since Sept. 11, 2001, more than four times as many active-duty personnel and veterans have died by suicide when compared to the number of service members who have died in combat. On Thursday, the Department of Defense released its annual report on suicide, showing that 580 service members died by suicide in 2020. This is an increase from 2019’s report of 498 service members.

Gillibrand’s push comes as three 10th Mountain Division soldiers at Fort Drum lost their lives to suspected suicide within 48 hours, three weeks ago. In response to these tragedies, Gillibrand sent a letter to the Department of Defense on Thursday asking for details on the Department’s actions to address marital stress and the mental health of service members and their families. She is also renewing her push to pass the Brandon Act, bipartisan legislation named in Brandon Castera’s honor, which would expand access to mental health care services for active-duty military personnel, including access to confidential mental health evaluation referrals without fear of retaliation.

“Over the last 10 years, the veteran suicide rate has doubled that of the civilian sui-

Photo Courtesy of U.S. Army

Senator Gillibrand’s push comes as three 10th Mountain Division soldiers at Fort Drum lost their lives to suspected suicide within 48 hours, three weeks ago.

cide rate,” Gillibrand said. “These aren't just numbers; these are fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, sons and daughters. And as the recent tragedies at Ft. Drum prove, no community is immune to this crisis. We owe it to these brave men and women to end the stigma on mental health and eliminate barriers that stand between our service members and veterans and access to mental health

care.”

More than 45,000 veterans and activeduty service members have committed suicide over a six-year period from 2013-2019.

According to the DoD’s reporting, suicide rates for active-duty service members and veterans continue to rise, and spiked to a five-year high in 2018. In 2017, 136 veterans in New York died by suicide —one nearly

every other day— and veterans die by suicide in New York at a much higher rate than the overall state population. Additionally, between 2005 and 2017, the suicide rate more than doubled for New York veterans aged 18 to 34 years old.

Currently, the Department of Defense policy requires mental health professionals to report many cases of mental health concerns of service members to a commander.

However, commanders are not required to provide opportunities for mental health treatment. This policy lacks accountability, can lead to mistrust, and serves as a barrier to treatment, as many service members fear repercussions to their career. The bipartisan Brandon Act would require the Department of Defense to establish a standard phrase that service members may use to initiate mandatory and immediate treatment and would ensure confidentiality for service members seeking treatment. This confidential request would be designed to function like the restricted reporting system for victims of military sexual assault, so that service members can receive mental health treatment in confidence.

Gillibrand’s announcement also comes as U.S. soldiers withdraw from Afghanistan and the longest war in United States history.

Many service members from the Fort Drum 10th Mountain Division deployed to Afghanistan to assist in the withdrawal. Many now bear the physical and mental scars of warfighting.

Animal Hospital Addresses ‘Compassion Fatigue’ among Veterinary Workers

By Forum Staff While it’s commonplace for professionals in the veterinary industry to feel an inherent desire to help animals, many practices and hospitals across the nation are seeing an efflux of employees leaving the veterinary sector due to working long hours, lack of staff and chronic emotional stress, leaders of a specialty and emergency veterinary hospital group recently noted.

The veterinarians from Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group, based in Brooklyn, have indicated that they are looking to combat this trend by providing emotional and financial support for employees, as well as informing the public of what they can do to support local veterinary clinics in distress.

According to VERG, many of the issues plaguing veterinary clinics derive from the repercussions of the pandemic and the increase in pet adoptions that came with it.

After COVID-19 swept New York, shorthanded veterinary hospitals like VERG were forced to adapt their operational procedures to include curbside treatment, increased cleaning of all surfaces between appoint-

ments, and accommodations for staff members who were exposed to COVID-19, including adhering to quarantine guidelines.

“We’ve been seeing so many more patients during a time when we have so little help,” said Dr. Brett Levitzke, chief medical officer of VERG. “On top of 14-hour workdays and more pets coming in, there is the fact that we’re not always able to save every animal, which is really hard and a whole mental-health issue within itself.”

According to veterinarians at VERG, “compassion fatigue” is leading to more resignations, with many staff members unable to bear the stress associated with helping those who are suffering, which can lead to isolation, depression and substance abuse.

After VERG lost six employees in one month, the hospital introduced a series of changes to help retain workers. These changes include offering a sign-on bonus of up to $2,000, increasing salaries and even making social workers available for staff looking to talk through their issues. VERG has also increased differential pay for weekend and overnight shifts with the goal of increasing availability and freeing up veterinarians for more patients.

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Photo Courtesy of VERG

According to vets, “compassion fatigue” is leading to more resignations, with many staff members unable to bear the stress associated with helping those who are suffering, which can lead to isolation, depression and substance abuse.

In addition to employee turnover, COVID-19’s disruption has caused extended wait times and scarce appointment availability at veterinary clinics, with some practices even refusing new clients. As a result, worried pet owners are bringing their pets to emergency animal hospitals like VERG for basic care.

According to the staff at VERG, the 90 percent increase in new patients combined with staff shortages has had long-reaching effects on the hospital’s staff and who they are able to treat.

To deter unnecessary patient visits, which will ultimately free up availability for veterinarians, VERG has detailed a list of pet crises that necessitate an emergency animal hospital visit: • If your pet has a hard, swollen or bloated

abdomen, which can be caused by many issues including heart failure, liver dysfunction, uterine infection or internal bleeding.

• If you own a dog and they have ingested dangerous toxins, including chocolate, avocados, grapes, over-the-counter medication, or the artificial sweetener Xylitol.

• Repeated bouts of vomiting or diarrhea can lead to rapid dehydration in animals, which can be symptoms of serious complications such as poisoning or gastrointestinal obstruction.

• If your pet is showing obvious signs of pain like vocalizing, panting, drooling, or severe limping.

• If your pet has not had food or water in 24-36 hours.

Borough Athletes Honored after Earning Gold Medals at Tokyo Olympics to Olympic gold medalists Dalilah Muhammad and Tina Charles at a ceremony Friday at Borough Hall.

Richards also presented the Olympic duo with proclamations declaring Oct. 1, 2021 as both Dalilah Muhammad Day and Tina Charles Day in the Borough of Queens.

Muhammad and Charles received City Council proclamations from the ceremony’s co-sponsor, Councilwoman Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica), in recognition of their achievements as well.

A native of Rochdale Village and a childhood member of the New York Novas youth running club, Muhammad first earned Olympic glory in 2016 when she became the first American woman in history to win a gold medal in the 400-meter hurdles. She would go on to break the 16-year-old world record time in that event at the 2019 USA Outdoor Track and Field Championships, before breaking her own world record at the 2019 World Championships later that year.

At the 2021 Olympics, Muhammad would again beat the world record time Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Danny Karwoski in the 400-meter hurdles in an effort that Tina Charles earned her a silver medal, finishing behind fellow American Sydney McLaughlin. MuBy Forum Staff hammad won her second career gold medal Queens Borough President Donovan later in the 2021 Games as part of Team Richards, Jr. presented the Key to Queens USA’s victorious 4x400-meter relay team,

alongside McLaughlin, Athing Mu and Allyson Felix.

The 2021 Olympics were the third Summer Games in the illustrious career of Tina Charles, a native of East Elmhurst. After winning gold as part of Team USA’s women’s basketball squad in the London 2012 and Rio 2016 Olympics, Charles returned in 2021 to help lead the team to its seventh straight Olympic gold medal.

The WNBA’s reigning scoring champion and an eight-time All-Star, Charles is one of the most decorated professional basketball players of her generation. An All-American at Christ the King and a twotime NCAA champion at the University of Connecticut, Charles won the WNBA Rookie of the Year award in 2010 before winning WNBA MVP honors in 2012. In 2018, she earned the Basketball Hall of Fame’s Human Spirit Award for her charity work off the court — Charles founded the Hopey’s Heart Foundation, which distributes automated external defibrillators to schools, and funded the construction of a 150-seat school in the West African nation of Mali.

“Dalilah Muhammad and Tina Charles are more than just legendary athletes and Olympic champions. They are role models and inspirations to the countless young

people of our borough — kids who now know that with hard work and dedication, there is no limit to what a child of Queens can achieve,” Richards said. “Dalilah and Tina represent the very best of The World’s Borough and these inspiring women are more than deserving recipients of the Key to Queens.”

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Fernando Frazão/Agência Brasil

Dalilah Muhammad

Columbia University to Operate and Oversee Pandemic Response Institute

By Forum Staff Columbia University will launch and operate the Pandemic Response Institute, with its key partner, the CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy, and several community, research, and industry partners, Mayor Bill de Blasio recently announced.

The PRI will be supported by up to $20 million in City capital funding for eligible costs and be dedicated to preparing New York City for future health emergencies and epidemics in a more effective and equitable manner, while positioning the city as a global leader to serve as a model for public health response.

The City Economic Development Corporation, Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, and the Office of Emergency Management reviewed and selected Columbia to launch this institute with a key partnership with CUNY SPH as well as other collaborators, following a Request for Proposals in April. The university, through its Mailman School of Public Health, put forth an ambitious and compelling vision for the PRI, which was supported by an impressive and robust multi-sector group of partners, while looking to ensure all New Yorkers are prepared for future public health emergencies by having access to health solutions, information for decision-making, and the capacity to prepare and respond.

Photo Courtesy of Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office

Mayor de Blasio said that “this institute will put our hardest-learned lessons to work so that when the next public health crisis emerges, New York City will not only be prepared, we will be ready to lead these global fights.”

“The Pandemic Response Institute, operated by Columbia University with key partner CUNY SPH, will play a critical role in preparing for future pandemics, and promoting equity in public health,” de Blasio said. “Born out of New York’s quick action during the early days of the pandemic, this institute will put our hardest-learned lessons to work so that when the next public health

crisis emerges, New York City will not only be prepared, we will be ready to lead these global fights.”

The PRI will specifically focus on: • Building or strengthening technologies and systems to support real-time data collection and sharing • Driving cutting-edge research on public health innovation and creating capac-

ity to rapidly scale technological solutions in future public health emergencies • Piloting community-based partnership models and workforce training programs that improve emergency preparedness and advance health outcomes across all communities • Centering racial equity in all activities of the Institute and addressing gaps in health infrastructure that have disproportionately caused harm to communities of color and others facing structural inequities.

The PRI will bring together communities, nonprofit organizations, industry, and academic institutions, and coordinate with City agencies in activities related to and within the entire public health emergency cycle. These partnerships will help the institute to advance research, training, and innovation, administration officials said.

“I applaud the Mayor and the NYCEDC on their investment in prevention of future pandemics in our city, and on their utilization of the incredible resources we already have in their selection of Columbia University as their partner in this endeavor,” City Councilman Paul Vallone (D-Bayside) added. “We can be confident that with this new Pandemic Response Institute we will never be caught unawares by a health crisis of this magnitude again.”

The institute will begin activities this year and plans to launch a community-based location in each borough, de Blasio noted.

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 24 • OCTOBER 7, 2021 | 13

Legal Notices SERICA FACTS LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/15/2020. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: SAMANTHA PARCHMENT, 153-50 89TH AVE, APT 825, QUEENS, NY 11432. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

NY ATLANTIC OCEAN LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 04/26/21. Off. Loc.: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: NY STLANTIC OCEAN LLC, 133-27 39TH AVENUE, APT 12P, FLUSHING, NY 11354. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

CREATIVITECH LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/24/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: ROSEANNE GIUTINIANI, 163-34 97TH STREET, HOWARD BEACH , NY, 11414, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Qualification of DYNAMIC PRICING PARTNERS LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 05/04/21. Office location: Queens County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 02/26/21. Princ. office of LLC: 78 Lindner Pl., Malverne, NY 11565. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to c/o Corporation Service Co. (CSC), 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. DE addr. of LLC: c/o CSC, 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808.

Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State, 401 Federal St., Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Secondary market ticket sales for sports and entertainment events.

CORFU 33 REALTY LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/02/2021.

Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 21 14 Hoyt Avenue South, Astoria, NY 11102.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

BLACK PEARL BEAUTY, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/08/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:BLACK PEARL BEAUTY, 104-13 209TH ST., QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11429 USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

JXD ENTERTAINMENT LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/13/2021.

Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:JXD ENTERTAINMENT LLC, 13618 62nd ROAD, FLUSHING, NY 11367 Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

CYNEMATIC ENTERPRISE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 07/21/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:CYNTHIA LOPEZ, 74-18 64 LANE, GLENDALE, NY 11385 USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

NYC EV MOBILITY LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 6/30/21. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 33-24 Northern Blvd., 5th Fl., Long Island City, NY 11101, which is also the principal busines location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

PSB NY HOLDINGS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/10/2021.

Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: PAUL STEPHEN BOYINGTOM, P.O. BOX 7604, SANTA MONICA, CA 90406. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

WANG & MEI ENTERPRISE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/09/21. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 2820 214th Pl, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

MILITANO & CO., LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/23/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:CHRISTOPHER MILITANO,7122 67th Street, Glendale, NY, GLENDALE, NY, 11385. PURPOSE: Any lawful purpose. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT FILMS, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 07/29/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:WEDNESDAY NIGHT FILMS, LLC, 1624 BELL BLVD.,BAYSIDE, NY 11360, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

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LW REALTY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 07/1321. 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 LW REALTY 0528, LLC, 13631 41ST AVENUE, 4A, FLUSHING, NY, 11355, USA.Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

T & Z LAUNDRY LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/06/21. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 8935 155TH AVENUE #4E, HOWARD BEACH NY, 11414, USA.. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

DALEY DENTAL GEMS STUDIO BOUTIQUE, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 07/8/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: STACY DALEY, 80-11 161st. ST., JAMAICA, NY,11432, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

MIRACLES MADE PUBLISHING LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/14/2021. Office loc: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: BARBARA CASTRO, 25504 61st AVE., LITTLE NECK, NY, 11362, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of blue beaver publishing LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/05/21.

Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 65-75 Woodhaven Blvd., Rego Park, NY 11374. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to ARDLEE SIMON, 251-21 JERICHO TURNPIKE, BELLROSE, NY, 11426, USA. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

6030 55TH ST. LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/21/21. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 244-06 Van Zandt Avenue, Douglaston, NY 11362. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

SALINAS LLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/17/2021. Office: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: The LLC, 2700 215th St, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: any lawful act.

J&N RENOVATIONS GROUP, LLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 7/29/2021. Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: Juan Camilo Quintero, 201-29 119th Avenue, Saint Albans, NY, 11412 USA. Purpose: any lawful act.

LIC KAITEN ZUSHI LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 9/14/21. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Kyung Rae Kim, 42-20 27th St Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

LEMAHD LLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/26/2021. Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: JACOB MILLER, 4705 CENTER BLVD APT 401, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY, 11109, USA. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County, on the 28th day of MAY 2021, bearing Index Number NC-000225-21/QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York, 11435, grants me the right to assume the name of PRAMOD VIOLA. My present name is PRAMOD VOILA aka PRAMOD VIOLA. The city and state of my present address is South Ozone Park, NY. The month and year of my birth are JULY 1957.

The place of my birth is India.

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

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