THE FORUM NEWSGROUP | OCTOBER 19, 2023

VOL. 21 • NUMBER 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023

FLOYD BENNETT FIGHT Ariola Continues to Battle City

and State over Installation of Migrant Camp at National Park

See Stories on Pages 2

“We will fight this tooth and nail—this place is not safe to house asylum seekers, and it violates the very principles of public access that define our national parks,” City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) said this week regarding Floyd Bennett Field.

Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 1

Federal Judge sends Floyd Bennet Field Case back to State Court

Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola

On Monday, the City announced that Floyd Bennett Field will open in the coming weeks to serve approximately 500 families with children seeking asylum in a semi-congregate setting.

By Michael V. Cusenza Federal Judge Brian M. Cogan on Monday remanded the case brought by City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) and Assemblywoman Jaime Williams, along with several other elected officials and community leaders, which asked the court to disallow the use of federal park land at Floyd Bennett Field in the Gateway National Recreation Area to house a migrant basecamp, back to State court. Cogan ruled that Mayor

Eric Adams and Gov. Kathy Hochul failed to show that there was a federal question in the complaints that the plaintiffs brought.

“We are gratified that the case was sent back to the State court where it belongs,” Ariola said. “We believe that the maneuver to push it up to the federal level was designed from the start to delay this court proceeding, which the City and Gov. Hochul know they are going to lose. We can be heard far more quickly in State Supreme Court, which has already ruled against the City

“This is a disaster, and cannot stand,” Councilwoman Ariola said on Tuesday.

and State on similar complaints in the past.”

Additionally on Monday, the City announced that Floyd Bennett Field will open in the coming weeks to serve families with children seeking asylum in a semi-congregate setting. Privacy dividers with locks will be installed to provide approximately 500 families—instead of single men, which the City had previously announced—with children a place to stay.

“We will fight this tooth and nail—this place is not safe to house asylum seekers,

File Photo

and it violates the very principles of public access that define our national parks,” Ariola said. “Placing anyone in a floodprone, remote location like Floyd Bennett Field is irresponsible. But placing children there? There are so many problems with this—where will they go to school? How will they get there? How safe and secure are the ‘semi-congregate settings’ that women and children are supposed to share with hundreds of unknown, unvetted men? This is a disaster, and cannot stand.”

South Ozone Park Commuter Attacked for Wearing a Turban cording to the NYPD and published reports.

The violent incident took place on an A 19-year-old man was attacked on Sunday morning by a fellow bus rider for MTA shuttle bus near 118th Street and wearing a turban and a COVID mask, ac- Liberty Avenue in South Ozone Park.

By Michael V. Cusenza

Photo Courtesy of Google

The violent incident took place on an MTA shuttle bus near 118th Street and Liberty Avenue in South Ozone Park.

2 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

The assault is being investigated as a “We don’t wear that in this country,” the attacker yelled before attempting to hate crime by the NYPD Hate Crimes pull off the victim’s turban, the New York Unit.

“Over the past few days, we have seen Daily News wrote on Monday. “And take a devastating up-tick in discrimination and that mask off !” violence against religious minorities that have now hit our home here in Queens. I was horrified to learn that one of our young residents, who was going about their day on a MTA bus, was a victim of a verbal and physical assault that left them bleeding,” U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) said.

“This is unacceptable. We will not stand for such vile hate and bigotry here in Queens, nor anywhere in our country. I wish the victim a speedy recovery and hope that the NYPD Hate Crimes Unit is quickly able to find the alleged perpetrator.”

State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) added, “This reprehensible attack targeting an innocent individual based on their religious and cultural identity is an appalling display of bigotry and will not be tolerated. We must stand united against such acts of violence and hatred, and work towards creating a society that respects and embraces diversity. I offer File Photo any assistance my office can be in appre“This is unacceptable. We will not stand for such vile hending the criminals of this unaccepthate and bigotry here in Queens, nor anywhere in our able incident.” country,” Rep. Meng said.

Your problems are our job.

Let us begin helping you with a free consultation.

Photo Courtesy of Garrison Flood Control

The inflatable flood barriers range in size and can be used to prevent water from entering a property.

Pheffer Amato Brings Flood Help to District

By Forum Staff Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (DHoward Beach) has secured flood barriers for constituents of the 23rd Assembly District.

The assemblywoman’s office has been helping residents across the Rockaway Peninsula, and in neighborhoods of Howard Beach and Ozone Park, file flood damage reports—stemming from recent storms—with the City.

Pheffer Amato was able to arrange the giveaway of inflatable barriers that range in size and can be used to prevent water from entering a property.

This was done through a partnership with the City Department of Environmental Protection.

“The question isn’t whether we’re getting another storm like Sandy, but when,” said Pheffer Amato. “As we are approaching the 11 year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy, we are reminded that we must stay prepared. Residing in a community

which is in a recognized flood-zone means that there is always a risk of flooding. As our City, State, and federal agencies are continuing to work on resiliency projects, these flood barriers can provide some temporary relief. The safety of my constituents has always and will always be my number one priority.”

Pheffer Amato has also introduced legislation which would provide for non-discriminatory, equitable flood insurance options for New York State residents. She is also the co-sponsor of bill that would establish the Office of Flood Mitigation to facilitate and enhance flood mitigation efforts; and a bill which would provide low or no-interest loans to individual property owners for hazard mitigation or resilience projects.

Those interested in getting a flood barrier must call the assemblywoman’s office at (718) 945-9550 to RSVP and live within the bounds of the 23rd Assembly District.

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

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

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

Photo Courtesy of Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato

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

“The question isn’t whether we’re getting another storm like Sandy, but when,” Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato said.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 3

Addabbo Brings Entities Together to Repair Ozone Park Clocktower Flag

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/Ronzoni

Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo

The flag from the Grosjean Factory Clocktower on Atlantic Avenue is flying high again.

By Forum Staff The long-missing flag from the Grosjean Factory Clocktower on Atlantic Avenue is flying high again thanks to a multi-agency effort led by State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) in con-

junction with Ozone Park residents and leaders.

In previous years, the flag’s pulley system at the highest point of the flagpole was broken and in need of repair for Old Glory to wave high atop the clock tower located at 92-10 At-

4 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

“This flag represents the valor and sacrifice of our brave men and women who served in the Vietnam War. It is a symbol of our gratitude and remembrance,” Sen. Addabbo said.

lantic Ave. The flag honors the men and women who served in the Vietnam War. Senator Addabbo, who started donating the flags in 2019, worked with FDNY Foundation Executive Director Jean Oshea and Jamaica Hospital Medi-

cal Center Manager Patrick Rudden to facilitate the repairs. The flag tower, also known as the MediSys Clocktower, is at the rooftop of Jamaica Hospital’s annex.

“The FDNY and the FDNY Foundation thank Senator Addabbo and his remarkable staff for their continued support and the ongoing efforts to never forget the sacrifices made by our first responders,” Oshea said.

The flag repair company stated that the services would include 3/8” rope, stainless steel clips, a new pulley, gold ball and pole top adapter.

“I am proud to have led the effort to bring individuals together in order to restore the flag atop the Clocktower-MediSys building,” Addabbo said.

“This flag represents the valor and sacrifice of our brave men and women who served in the Vietnam War. It is a symbol of our gratitude and remembrance. I would like to thank the FDNY Foundation, Susan Wipper, Patrick Rudden, and all the community residents and leaders who came together to make this restoration possible. Let us never forget the sacrifices made by our first responders and veterans, honoring them by keeping our flag flying high.”

The Pharmacist’s Corner

Presented by Frank Pantina, R.Ph

YOU CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW: THE ABC’S OF GLAUCOMA

Photo Courtesy of Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato

“This is a community that loves its animals and that was shown through this amazing level of generosity,” Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato (r.) said.

Pol’s Animal Supply Drive Fetches Fortune

By Forum Staff Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) recently had her office filled to the brim with animal supplies donated by residents throughout the community. For weeks on end, Pheffer Amato noted this week, the assemblywoman’s office was a revolving door of residents from the Rockaway Peninsula, along with Broad Channel, Howard Beach and Ozone Park who dropped off supplies. Donations from the community ranged from food, to toys, collars, water bowls, along with blankets and sheets.

Pheffer Amato dropped off a portion of the accumulated donations to the Animal Care Center, which included over 150 pounds of food and over 250 sheets and towels. The remaining blankets and sheets, food and toys went to several local

animal shelters in South Queens and the Rockaway Peninsula.

“This is a community that loves its animals and that was shown through this amazing level of generosity,” Pheffer Amato said. “Everyone who came here to drop off supplies shared their own story about their furry friend because in this district we treat our animals with love, and appreciate the work the rescues do. I am so grateful for our community’s engagement as we are able to show our love and support to animals.”

The ACC had reached out to the assemblywoman due to her well known love of animals as it was in desperate need of supplies. Pheffer Amato had also recently worked with the 100th Precinct to rescue a dog and several cats from a condemned house in Broad Channel.

All of us are familiar with the various health awareness campaigns that occur each month.

January has several and one we’d like to talk with you about is National Glaucoma Awareness.

Glaucoma is an eye disease that can damage the optic nerve. It is the optic nerve that supplies visual information from your brain directly to your eyes.

The most common form of this disease is primary open-angle glaucoma, which is especially dangerous because it has no symptoms except gradual vision loss. For this reason it is imperative that you do yearly comprehensive eye exams so that vision changes can be detected and monitored.

Acute-angle closure glaucoma, is a medical emergency. If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should see your doctor immediately: Severe eye pain accompanied by nausea, vomiting, redness in the eye, sudden vision disturbances including blurred vision, and or seeing colored rings around lights.

Glaucoma can be caused by fluid buildup in the channels of your iris or cornea.

Normally, a clear fluid, known as aqueous humor, passes through these channels and fills the front part of the eye. If however, there is a blockage or partial obstruction, the pressure in your eye may increase. This can lead to damage of the optic nerve and loss of sight.

While glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, no one knows what causes the increase of pressure (IOP) in the eyes. IOP can be caused by dilating eye drops, medications like corticosteroids, high blood pressure or reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.

People 60 and over are at increased risk and for African-Americans the risk grows after 40. Patients with diabetes and high blood pressure and heart disease also have an increased risk of developing glaucoma.

Your pharmacist can be an effective partner in the treatment of glaucoma by monitoring adherence, counseling patients on the proper use of eyedrops, and recommending preservativefree or combination products when problems arise.

Take advantage of our knowledge and willingness to help!

Until next week...

For your family’s prescription needs, please call

CROSS BAY CHEMIST at 718-659-9500 or 718-880-1644 157-02 Cross Bay Blvd. in Howard Beach: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm. Sat-Sun 9am-7pm. or 96-05 101st Ave. in Ozone Park: Mon-Sat 9am-7pm. Sunday: Closed.

Cops Search for Ozone Park Armed Robber

Police this week sought the public’s help in catching a man wanted for robbing an Ozone Park establishment last week.

On Wednesday, Oct. 11, at 10:15 p.m. at 150-19 Cross Bay Blvd., an individual entered the establishment, displayed a firearm and removed approximately $3,000 from the register. The suspect struck the victims over the head with the firearm before fleeing.

Photo Courtesy of Assemblywoman Pheffer Amato

Pheffer Amato dropped off a portion of the accumulated donations to the Animal Care Center, which included over 150 pounds of food and over 250 sheets and towels.

Photo Courtesy of NYPD

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 5

Addabbo Set to Host Interactive Diabetes Information Session

“Our goal is to empower individuals living with diabetes, as well as their families and caregivers, with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about their health,” Sen. Addabbo said.

Photo Courtesy of Google

The event will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, located at 84-85 96th St. in Woodhaven.

By Forum Staff Are you diabetic, pre-diabetic or have a family history of diabetes? Do you want to learn how to improve your health in a fun, hands-on way, plus have the chance to win free baskets of freshly grown greens? If you

answered “yes,” State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) has an event for you.

In recognition of November as Diabetes Awareness Month, Addabbo is hosting an interactive diabetes session which will feature a live cooking demonstration, nutritional information, a farming lesson on how

to grow your own fruits and vegetables, light exercises, games and prizes.

This will be far from a boring health class.

Instead, you will have the opportunity to participate in a completely new and unique experience.

The event will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, located at 84-85 96th St. in Woodhaven. Featured guests will include Cornell Cooperative Extension, Queens County Farm Museum, and Catholic Health / St. Francis Hospital.

“Our goal is to empower individuals liv-

File Photo

ing with diabetes, as well as their families and caregivers, with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about their health,” Addabbo said. “Whether you are newly diagnosed, have been living with diabetes for years, or simply wish to learn more about this prevalent condition, our Diabetes Information Session is a must-attend event. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, education, and empowerment.”

You must live in Addabbo’s district and reserve admission to the event by calling his office at (718) 738-1111, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

City Moves to Shut Down Sellers, Distributors of Flavored Vapes

By Forum Staff Mayor Eric Adams and City Corporation Counsel Judge Sylvia O. Hinds-Radix on Monday took steps to immediately prevent three companies from distributing and selling flavored e-cigarettes (vapes) in violation of federal, state, and city laws.

The City of New York today filed a motion for a preliminary injunction against Magellan Technology, Demand Vape (Magellan’s sister company), and Empire Vape as part of a lawsuit initiated in July by the Adams administration. The motion includes new evidence of how the companies continue to flagrantly violate the law in spite of the City’s ongoing lawsuit.

“Our administration will not sit by while companies break our laws, sell illegal products, and poison our children,” Adams said. “We will use every tool in our toolbox to protect young people from the corruptive influence of illegal flavored nicotine products and hold bad actors responsible for endangering the health of our children.

And to any company continuing to sell and distribute these products: You are on notice that we will not hesitate to hold you accountable if you put profits over people.”

The city’s motion for a preliminary injunction lays out a wealth of evidence that the three companies have flagrantly broken laws against selling flavored vapes — pub-

Photo Courtesy of Benny Polatseck/Mayoral Photography Office

“[T]o any company continuing to sell and distribute these products: You are on notice that we will not hesitate to hold you accountable if you put profits over people,” Mayor Adams said.

licly advertising on their website, for example, that the Hyde brand of products they sell and distribute have “so many flavors,” and that they “boast an impressive range of flavored products” that is “constantly growing.” Empire Vape’s website banner states specifically, “Flavor ban? No worries.

We got you.”

E-cigarettes may not be placed on the market without U.S. Food and Drug Ad-

6 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

ministration (FDA) authorization. The FDA affirmatively rejected Magellan Technology’s application for pre-market authorization for these products, yet Magellan, Demand Vape, and Empire Vape continued to distribute and sell them. Additionally, an investigation into flavored vape availability at a small sample of retail outlets conducted as part of the Adams administration’s ongoing lawsuit revealed that fla-

vored vapes distributed by the defendants were available at no fewer than 200 stores throughout New York City.

Most e-liquids provide nicotine levels far exceeding those of conventional cigarettes — some with as much nicotine as 175 to 350 cigarettes. Additionally, federal health authorities, including the U.S. surgeon general and the FDA, say youthfriendly flavors in e-cigarettes — such as “strawberry milkshake,” “cola,” and “pina colada” — are among the flavors that tempt kids to “vape” high levels of nicotine.

Child-friendly, cartoon character packaging on e-cigarettes targeted at young people has also contributed to the epidemic of nicotine addiction among young people in middle and high school.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey revealed that 15.2 percent of New York City high school students and 7 percent of New York City middle school students surveyed reported current use of electronic vapor products. The FDA has not authorized the sale of any flavored vape (except tobacco-flavored), and every sale of a flavored vape in the U.S. is illegal under the federal Family Smoking and Protection Act. Outright flavor bans have also been enacted in New York City and across New York state, as well as in many other cities and states nationwide.

Fire Commissioner Releases Letter to Amazon to Ensure only Legal Lithium-ion Batteries are Sold on its Site

Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh sent the letter to Amazon last week.

By Forum Staff City Fire Commissioner Laura Kavanagh on Friday sent a letter to online-retailer Amazon, urging the retail giant to make sure it only sells lithium-ion batteries and powered micro-mobility devices that meet legal safety standards.

NYC Local law 39 —which went into effect Sept. 16, 2023 — prohibits the sale, lease, rental, or distribution of powered micro-mobility devices like ebikes and e-scooters, unless the electrical systems and batteries for the devices have been certified by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with Un-

Courtesy of Amazon

derwriters Laboratories (UL) standard.

“As a global leader in e-commerce, Amazon has a crucial role to play in promoting safety and responsibility when it comes to the sale of e-micromobility devices,” Mayor Eric Adams said. “All retailers are expected to follow the law by only selling lithium-ion batteries and powered micromobility devices that meet legal safety standards as we set a precedent for a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future in New York City.”

Members of the Adams administration met with Amazon executives this spring and were encouraged by the response that Amazon’s team is in the process of updat-

Lithium-ion battery fires have caused 14 deaths this year across the five boroughs.

ing its policy and controls to align with the new law.

As I recently noted in testimony before the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, the New York City Fire Department has been carefully tracking the increase in fires caused by lithium-ion batteries in micro-mobility devices,” Kavanagh wrote. “These batteries are commonly found in e-bikes, e-scooters, and other de-

File Photo

vices such as electric skateboards and hoverboards. The recent upward trend of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries has had a devastating effect on New Yorkers. We have reached a point of crisis: FDNY has already responded to 101 injuries stemming from micro-mobility device fires in 2023. With 14 deaths to date this year, lithium-ion batteries are now a top cause of fatal fires in New York.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 7

8 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 9

BP Richards Announces Nearly $5M in Funding Borough Gotham Health Clinics

Photo Courtesy of Google

Gotham Health Parsons in Jamaica received $1 million for a facility expansion to allow for additional on-site medical services.

By Forum Staff Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. held a press conference on Monday to announce a nearly $5 million capital allocation to fund improvements across six different NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health clinics in Queens.

The press conference took place at NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health Springfield Gardens, located at 134-64 Springfield Blvd., which is receiving $2.5 million of

the Borough President’s $4.85 million allocation. That funding will go toward the replacement of the facility’s problematic, 20-year-old rooftop air handling unit, which has a history of malfunctioning and interfering with the clinic’s ability to serve patients.

Senior NYC Health + Hospitals leadership, Gotham Health clinic administrators and healthcare workers joined Richards at Monday’s event.

Other Gotham Health clinics receiving funding from Richards include:

Photo Courtesy of Google

Gotham Health South Queens in South Jamaica received $600,000 for a modernized HVAC system and other facility upgrades.

• Gotham Health Lefrak in Lefrak City ($500,000 for a new air handling unit) • Gotham Health Parsons in Jamaica ($1 million for a facility expansion to allow for additional on-site medical services) • Gotham Health Ridgewood in Ridgewood ($150,000 for security system upgrades) • Gotham Health South Queens in South Jamaica ($600,000 for a modernized HVAC system and other facility upgrades) • Gotham Health Woodside in Wood-

side ($100,000 for modernized office space) The $4.85 million in funding across six Queens Gotham Health clinics represents approximately one-third of the $14.4 million total that the Borough President has allocated to Queens’ healthcare institutions in Fiscal Year 2024 — the largest single-year healthcare allocation of his administration. Since taking office in December 2020, Borough President Richards has allocated nearly $33 million to healthcare institutions across Queens.

MTA Leadership and Police Chiefs View Safety Protocols in the Transit System

By Forum Staff Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber on Friday joined MTA Chief Safety and Security Officer Patrick Warren, MTA Police Chief John Mueller, and NYPD Chief of Transit Michael Kemper to view safety protocols at Grand Central Terminal and the Grand Central 4,5,6, 7, S subway station.

Currently, the NYPD says law enforcement is not aware of any specific, credible threats against public transit or the region.

The MTA is in contact with local, State, and federal law enforcement partners to continually assess threat conditions. Last Thursday night, Gov. Kathy Hochul directed additional State Police and National Guard to patrol key transportation hubs.

“While there is no credible threat, we have increased our presence at the major transportation terminals and throughout the transit system under the leadership of the NYPD,” Lieber said. “We are more visible and more prepared than ever, and we encourage customers if you see something, say something.”

Photo Courtesy of MTA

Currently, the NYPD says law enforcement is not aware of any specific, credible threats against public transit or the region.

10 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

“We are increasing our presence and our visibility to provide a comfort level to our ridership at terminals and on commuter railroads,” Mueller said. “I was at a security conference in Israel when the attacks began last week, and I want to assure the public that we are in constant communication with law enforcement partners to be prepared for anything and get the latest intelligence.”

“We are well aware of the events going on around the world and we say this all the time -- public safety is our top priority,” Kemper added. “So, although we are not

aware of any credible threats towards New York City or the subway system, just out of an abundance of caution, we have increased police presence.”

Law enforcement is asking everyone to be vigilant regarding situational awareness. This includes identifying suspicious behavior or unattended packages. If you see something, say something by contacting the police through control center channels, or calling 888-NYC-SAFE (within NYC limits), 866-SAFE-NYS (866-723-3697 – statewide), or local area 911.

Photo Courtesy of MTA

“While there is no credible threat, we have increased our presence at the major transportation terminals and throughout the transit system under the leadership of the NYPD,” Chairman Lieber said.

L.I. Man Charged with Kidnapping, Unlawful Imprisonment of Girlfriend

Photo Courtesy of SlideShare

The investigation is ongoing and District Attorney Katz is urging other women Brightman dated and victimized to contact her office at (718) 286-4410.

By Forum Staff Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced that Herman Brightman was charged today with threatening to kill his girlfriend with a knife, binding her wrists and taping her mouth shut.

The investigation is ongoing and District Attorney Katz is urging other women Brightman dated and victimized to contact her office.

The district attorney also noted that Brightman has used the alias Nazir Griffiths. She added that her office’s DV Helpline number is (718) 286-4410.

Brightman, 30, of Central Islip, was arraigned today on a seven-count indictment charging him with kidnapping in the second degree; unlawful imprisonment in the first degree; criminal mischief in the third degree; menacing in the second degree; unlawful imprisonment in the second degree; criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree; and criminal mischief in the fourth degree.

According to the charges: On Aug. 7, Brightman and a woman he had met months earlier through the dating app Hinge got into an argument at the woman’s home. Brightman threw the wom-

File Photo

“The defendant terrorized his girlfriend in her own home… She is fortunate to have escaped with her life,” DA Katz said.

an’s computer monitor on the floor, shattering the screen.

Brightman told the woman to sit on her bed while he went into the kitchen and got a knife. He then chopped her cell phone with the knife.

He climbed on top of the woman, poked her with the tip of the knife, placed his hands on her mouth and threatened to gut her. He asked her which part of her body she wanted him to cut first.

Brightman told her to turn up the music that was playing and looked through a window to check for neighbors. He then told the woman that he was going to kill her.

He taped the woman’s mouth shut, bound her wrists behind her back and demanded she sit in a corner of the room.

“The defendant terrorized his girlfriend in her own home. Wielding a knife, he threatened to gut her; he threatened to kill her. She is fortunate to have escaped with her life,” Katz said. “I urge women who may have been victimized by the defendant, or need safety planning services, or help in securing an order of protection or shelter placement, to call our 24-hour domestic violence hotline.”

If convicted, Brightman faces up to 25 years in prison.

Borough Man Charged with Operating Sex-Trafficking Ring in Brooklyn

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia/DoomDan515

The Penn Track has for years operated as an open-air market where Welch and others have forced trafficking victims to earn money for them by engaging in commercial sex acts with customers in cars or nearby hotels.

By Forum Staff An indictment was unsealed on Tuesday in Brooklyn federal court charging Queens resident Douglas Welch, also known as “Paradise,” with sex trafficking by force, sex trafficking conspiracy, interstate prostitution and promotion of prostitution.

The charges in the indictment relate to Welch allegedly forcing victims to engage in prostitution, in among other places, a stretch of Pennsylvania Avenue in Brooklyn known as the “Penn Track.”

The Penn Track has for years operated as an open-air market where Welch and others have forced trafficking victims to earn money for them by engaging in commercial sex acts with customers in cars or nearby hotels.

As alleged in court documents, Welch, 40, recruited women to work on his behalf along the Penn Track and used threats and violence to force those victims to engage in commercial sex with customers, and provide him with the profits. Welch routinely threatened his victims with physi-

cal violence if they disobeyed his orders, telling one victim, “if you f*** with the pimping, I’m gonna crack your head” and threatening to “slap the s***” out of another victim for not listening to him. He also bragged about knocking unconscious trafficking victims who disrespected him or other traffickers, including describing one instance in which he grabbed a woman by the throat, knocked her onto the sidewalk and then body slammed her for disrespecting another pimp along the Penn Track.

Welch struck a victim with a baseball bat for refusing to engage in prostitution after he directed her to do so, telling another sex trafficker that he wanted to leave a “stain on her brain.”

“As alleged, Welch has trafficked multiple women for his own financial benefit while boasting about the cruel and brutal violence he has inflicted on the vulnerable victims,” Brooklyn U.S. Attorney Breon Peace said. “Running a brazen, open-air commercial sex market in East New York or anywhere else in our district is unacceptable, dangerous to our communities, and especially harmful to women caught in this terrible cycle of abuse. Today’s indictment will hold the defendant accountable in a federal courtroom for his exploit-

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

If convicted of the charges, Welch (c.) faces a minimum term of 15 years in prison, and up to life imprisonment.

ative crimes.”

If convicted of the charges, Welch faces a minimum term of 15 years in prison, and up to life imprisonment.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 11

12 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

HELP WANTED

DENTAL Insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

Call to get your FREE Information Kit

1-855-225-1434 Dental50Plus.com/nypress

Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating (in GA: Designated) Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer.

Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds: B438, B439 (GA: B439B).

6208-0721

For the best service and prices for classified ads and legal notices Call The Forum 718-845-3221 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 13

Legal Notices 229 UPTOWN HOLDINGS LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/21/23.

Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 73-18 30th Avenue, Jackson Heights, NY 11370. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

CLEAR BRIDGE SOLUTIONS LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/27/2023. Office loc: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 14219 Barclay Ave, Apt 2A, Flushing, NY 11355. Reg Agent: Jonathan Pazmino, 14219 Barclay Ave, Apt 2A, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Anna Sobel, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 7/18/2023.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 24-45 27th St., Apt. 2B, Astoria, NY 11102. General Purpose SHEEP TECH LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/19/2023. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: ELIJAH FARRELL, 162-16 144TH AVE, JAMAICA, NY,11434. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

LOUD MOUTH PRODUCTIONS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/25/2023. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LOUD MOUTH PRODUCTIONS, LLC 10620 70TH AVE, UNIT 5C, FOREST HILLS, NY, 11375, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Maxim Equity LLC filed w/ SSNY on 9/15/23. Office: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 35-35 149th St., #204, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: any lawful.

V.M.A ENTERPRISE LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/19/2023.

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

SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 5425 Flushing Ave, Maspeth, NY 11378.

Reg Agent: Camelia Popa, 5425 Flushing Ave, Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of 10827 QB LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/23/23. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: c/o Cord Meyer Development LLC, 111-15 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills, NY 11375. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice is hereby given that a License, number1356473 for liquor, wine, beer, and cider, has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor, wine, beer, and cider, at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at PUEBLA PUEBLA BAR RESTAURANT, 42-18A Junction Blvd, Elmhurst, NY 11373 for on premises consumption.

GMP CONSULTING SERVICES LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/11/19. 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 GLORIANNA MAE PLANAS, 8237 212TH STREET, QUEENS VILLAGE, NY, 11427, USA.. PURPOSE: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation, 53 Ave Condo Holding LLC Art. of Org. were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/11/2023. Office Location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 141-07 20th Avenue Suite 303, Flushing, NY 11357v Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Ciminera Douglaston LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/3/23. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 8308 260th St, Floral Park, NY 11004. Purpose: any lawful activity.

LLC EIGHT PILAR CANDLES Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/11/23. Office: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to THAMAR ESTHER LOUISSAINT, 4240 212TH STREET, APT. 1 B, BAYSIDE, NY, 11361, USA. PURPOSE: Any lawful purpose.

LLC EIGHT PILAR CANDLES Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/11/23.

Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to THAMAR ESTHER LOUISSAINT, 4240 212TH STREET, APT. 1 B, BAYSIDE, NY, 11361, USA. PURPOSE: Any lawful purpose.

EXFIFA, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/11/23. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 28-14 215th Street, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

QUICK WHEELS COURIERS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/11/19. 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 QUICK WHEELS COURIERS LLC, 1306 LORING AVE. #4C, BROOKLYN, NY 11208. PURPOSE: Any lawful purpose.

BEST & FAST HEATING, PLUMBING & AIR CONDITIONING LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/11/19. 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 BEST & FAST HEATING, PLUMBING & AIR CONDITIONING LLC 106-21 97TH STR., OZONE PARK, NY, 11417, USA. PURPOSE: Any lawful purpose.

14 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP

KENNY CHEUNG DDS, PLLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/19/2023.

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

SSNY shall mail process to: The PLLC, 1125 46TH RD APT 2A, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY, 11101, USA. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of formation of JG Rosedale, LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. Of Org. filed with SSNY on 10/03/23. Office location Queens Co. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 240-01 144TH Ave., Rosedale, NY, 11422. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

KATS EYE DIGITAL SOLUTIONS LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. Of Org. filed with SSNY on 9/27/23. Office location Queens Co. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ZENBUSINESS INC., 41 STATE STREET, SUITE 112, ALBANY, NY, 12207, USA. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

FLUSHING

INTRODUCING A FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY IN A PRIME LOCATION! THIS 2-BEDROOM, 1-BATH CO-OP OFFERS THE PERFECT CANVAS TO CREATE YOUR DREAM HOME. WITH A BIT OF TLC, YOU CAN TRANSFORM THIS COZY SPACE INTO YOUR PERSONAL HAVEN. LOCATED IN A HIGHLY SOUGHT-AFTER AREA, YOU'LL ENJOY ALL OF THE CONVENIENCES THE NEIGHBORHOOD HAS TO OFFER. DON'T MISS OUT ON THE CHANCE TO MAKE THIS PROPERTY YOUR OWN AND U N L O C K I T S F U L L POTENTIAL. EXPLORE THE OPPORTUNITY!

BROOKLYN

THIS PROPERTY BOASTS THREE DISTINCT LIVING SPACES, MAKING IT IDEAL FOR BOTH HOMEOWNERS AND INVESTORS. TWO OF THESE UNITS ARE COZY ONE-BEDROOM APARTMENTS, PERFECT FOR INDIVIDUALS OR COUPLES SEEKING A COMFORTABLE, PRIVATE SPACE. THE THIRD UNIT IS A SPACIOUS TWO-BEDROOM APARTMENT. ONE OF THE STANDOUT FEATURES OF THIS PROPERTY IS THE ACCESS TO A FULL AND FINISHED BASEMENT. THIS ADDITIONAL SPACE CAN BE USED FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES. THIS PROPERTY INCLUDES A TWO-CAR GARAGE. WITH ITS MULTIPLE LIVING OPTIONS, FINISHED BASEMENT, AND TWO-CAR GARAGE, THIS PROPERTY OFFERS VERSATILITY, COMFORT, AND PRACTICALITY FOR ITS RESIDENTS. DON'T MISS OUT ON THE OPPORTUNITY TO MAKE IT YOUR OWN.

OLD HOWARD

INTRODUCING A BEAUTIFUL WATERFRONT PROPERTY ON 95TH STREET FOR SALE IN THE HEART OF HOWARD BEACH. THIS STUNNING 2 FAMILY HOME HAS 3 FLOORS. THE FIRST FLOOR HAS ONE BEDROOM A BATH WITH VERCECE TILE. A EAT IN KITCHEN AND LIVING ROOM ENTRY TO THE MOST MAGNIFICENT VIEW. 2ND FLOOR HAS A ONE BED ONE FULL BATH OVERSIZED FAMILY ROOM A LARGE EAT IN KITCHEN WITH A BAR AREA LEADING TO A BEAUTIFUL SUNROOM ALSO LEADING TO BACKYARD SPACE. FINALLY THE 3 FLOOR HAS A LARGE PRIMARY BEDROOM WITH A HALF OF BATH WITH PLENTY OF CLOSETS. THERE IS A BEAUTIFUL BACKYARD AREA OVERLOOKING THE WATER WITH AN OUTDOOR DECK FOR LOUNGING AND BOAT DOCK. THERE IS PLENTY OF SPACE FOR ENTERTAINING ALSO FULL GARAGE AND OUTDOOR SHED FOR STORAGE.

HOWARD BEACH

SHOW STOPPING CENTER HALL COLONIAL HOME LOCATED ON A BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED 100X100 PROPERTY. THIS 6 BDRM, 6.5 BATH STUNNER HOME OFFERS ALL THE TECHNOLOGY FOR TODAY'S MODERN LIVING. THIS MAGNIFICENT COLONIAL IS AN ENTERTAINER'S DELIGHT, FEATURING OVER 5,000 SQ FT OF LIVING SPACE. THE MAIN LEVEL HAS A GREAT FLOW OFFERING A SPACIOUS LR WITH A FULL BAR AND A GAS FIREPLACE. A DEN DOUBLES AS A HOME OFFICE WITH BUILT IN SHELVES THRU OUT. MOST IMPRESSIVE IS THE FABULOUS KIT. THAT DELIVERS THE 'WOW' FACTOR. THE DESIGNER KIT. HAS A HUGE CENTER ISLAND, VIKING STOVE, MULTIPLE SUBZERO FRIDGE UNITS, 2 BOSCH DISHWASHERS AND RADIANT HEAT THROUGHOUT. THE KIT. FLOWS DIRECTLY INTO A FDR WITH A WOOD BURNING FIREPLACE, WITH LARGE WINDOW AND GLASS SLIDERS OVERLOOKING AN OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT PARADISE WHICH FEATURES AN INGROUND POOL, HOT TUB, POND, FULL KIT. AND SOUND AND LIGHTING SYSTEM. UPSTAIRS HAS A LARGE PRIMARY BDRM AND 5 OTHER BDRMS AND 5 BATHS. RADIANT HEAT, 9 FOOT CEILING IN BASEMENT AND MUCH MORE

HOWARD BEACH

WELCOME TO YOUR DREAM HI-RANCH HOME! DISCOVER THE PERFECT BLEND OF STYLE, SPACE, AND COMFORT IN THIS STUNNING HI-RANCH GEM! LOCATED IN A DESIRABLE NEIGHBORHOOD, THIS METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED HOME IS YOUR TICKET TO ELEVATED LIVING. IT FEATURES 4 BEDROOMS 2 BATHS AND 1 OVERSIZED CAR GARAGE. AS YOU STEP INSIDE, YOU'LL IMMEDIATELY FEEL THE WARMTH AND CHARM OF THIS RESIDENCE. THE FIRST FLOOR OFFERS A SPACIOUS BEDROOM, A MODERN KITCHEN, A COZY LIVING ROOM, A FORMAL DINING ROOM, AND A CONVENIENT FULL BATHROOM. WHETHER YOU'RE HOSTING A FAMILY DINNER OR ENJOYING A QUIET EVENING IN, THIS FLOOR HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR COMFORTABLE LIVING. THE SECOND FLOOR BOASTS AN EXPANSIVE LIVING AREA, PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING GUESTS OR SIMPLY RELAXING IN STYLE. THE FORMAL DINING ROOM SEAMLESSLY CONNECTS TO THE EAT-IN KITCHEN, MAKING MEAL PREP AND GATHERINGS A BREEZE. SLIDING GLASS DOORS PROVIDE EASY ACCESS TO THE BACKYARD, WHERE YOU'LL FIND AN OVERSIZED SHED FOR STORAGE AND A FENCED-IN YARD FOR PRIVACY. WITH A TOTAL OF THREE MORE BEDROOMS ON THIS FLOOR, THERE'S PLENTY OF ROOM FOR A GROWING FAMILY OR GUESTS. A SECOND FULL BATHROOM ADDS TO THE CONVENIENCE, ENSURING EVERYONE'S NEEDS ARE MET.NOTABLE FEATURES: CENTRAL AIR CONDITIONING (CAC), ROOF UNDER 5 YEARS OLD, SPACIOUS 35X109 PROPERTY SIZE, ONECAR GARAGE, PERFECT FOR PARKING AND STORAGE. THIS HOME IS A TRUE STANDOUT, COMBINING MODERN CONVENIENCE WITH TIMELESS APPEAL. DON'T MISS THE CHANCE TO MAKE IT YOURS! SCHEDULE YOUR SHOWING TODAY AND EXPERIENCE THE LIFESTYLE UPGRADE YOU'VE BEEN SEARCHING FOR.

WOODSIDE L-SHAPED STUDIO APARTMENT. OPEN FLOOR PLAN. 263 SHARES. BASE MAINT: $553.07, ENERGY SURCHARGE: $21.91, 1 AC: $25.00= $599.98.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • VOL. 21 • Number 40 • OCTOBER 19, 2023 | 15

16 | OCTOBER 19, 2023 • Number 40 • VOL. 21 • THE FORUM NEWSGROUP