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Mayor Adams Has No Future as a Republican

BQE Admin on December 11, 2024

By Robert Hornak

In September, Mayor Adams was indicted for soliciting illegal campaign contributions and accepting bribes that go back a decade. With the election for Mayor of NYC coming next year, and Adams planning to run for a second term, NYC’s political world is in chaos.

Adams trial is scheduled for April, well before the June primary. But after petitions need to be submitted by candidates confirming what office they will run for next year. According to the Campaign Finance Board, there are now 32 candidates registered to run for mayor in 2025. 

However, no Republican candidate has filed yet. Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, who ran in 2021, has declared he will run again, but due to his radio hosting gig on WABC Radio, he has not filed to run yet. 

This has led some to speculate that Adams, who also has to deal with the court of public opinion and a number of very well-known and well-funded democrats preparing to challenge him next year, could possibly avoid the crazy democratic primary by becoming a republican. 

After all, Adams did spend a little time as a republican, changing his registration in 1997 at the same time Rudy Giuliani was running for a second term and when many democrats were crossing over to support Rudy after his incredibly successful first term. But that clearly wasn’t a comfortable fit for Adams, who flipped back four short years later and well before he ran for State Senate in 2006.

When asked if he would consider changing his party registration now, Adams didn’t clearly rule it out. This has set the non-stop news world on fire, endlessly speculating that Adams could make the flip. They are not, however, asking the one question that really matters – would he be welcome in the Republican Party. 

The affinity they point to is two-fold. First, that Adams, after defending NYC’s sanctuary city status and welcoming illegal immigrants to flood into the city, made some comments critical of Biden’s open border policy and, more importantly, the lack of federal funding for the myriad of services Adams was providing. Second, Adams claimed the DOJ was targeting him with Trump-style lawfare after his pleas for that additional federal funding. 

A deeper look at these issues would indicate a cynical opportunism, as well as the multitude of other issues where Adams has taken positions antithetical to most republicans. 

On immigration, Adams only problem was the lack of federal funds for migrant services, even as thousands of NY’ers are living on the streets. Adams claim of lawfare, while convenient, is farcical. If Adams committed the campaign finance violations he is accused of, something others have gone to jail for, he clearly broke the law. Unlike Trump, who was attacked in novel ways where the activity alleged isn’t clearly criminal, even if it occurred. 

Then there is the rest of the Adams agenda. In spite of Adams tough talk on crime, the NYPD still has its hands tied. City streets feel less safe than they have since pre-Guiliani. Crime in many categories is up, while Adams denies there is a problem. He has refused to take on sanctuary status and use his emergency powers to facilitate the removal of criminal gang members. 

He put migrant shelters in residential communities across the city. And, in the ultimate insult, he pushed through his City of Yes rezoning scheme that will allow multiple family dwellings to be built in neighborhoods for one and two-family homes. 

Every step of the way Adams has shown his values are starkly in opposition to those of most republicans and the idea that he would be embraced by many in the party, or could win a republican primary, is misguided at best. 

 

 

Robert Hornak is a professional political consultant who has previously served as the Deputy Director of the Republican Assembly Leader’s NYC office and as Executive Director of the Queens Republican Party. He can be reached at rahornak@gmail.com and @RobertHornak on X.

 

 

Glacial Pace of Change”: Judge Holds City in Contempt for Inaction on Rikers Closure, Paving Way for Fed Takeover

BQE Admin on December 6, 2024

By Jack Delaney | jdelaney@queensledger.com

In 2019, lawmakers gave one of the largest jails on earth until 2026 to shut down completely. Five years later, officials are still dragging their feet on reforms — so the federal government is poised to wrest control of the facility from New York City officials to ensure the closure actually happens.

On November 27, Manhattan federal judge Laura Swain held the city in contempt on 18 counts for its handling of Rikers Island, ruling in favor of the plaintiffs in Nunez v. the City of New York, a case first brought in 2012 that alleges “a pattern and practice of using unnecessary and excessive force against incarcerated individuals.” The decision paves the way for a federal receivership, which would strip local agencies of jurisdiction over Rikers.

The case was settled in 2015, with the stipulation that the Department of Correction (DOC) take concrete steps to fix what critics have described as a culture of impunity for officers within the jail. As part of the deal, a monitoring team was created to track compliance with the plan.

But in a 65-page decision, Swain observed that the monitors had consistently found DOC unwilling or unable to implement changes. “Progress will likely not be achieved,” they wrote in December 2021, “no matter how many remedial orders or other potential sanctions may be imposed,” because of “foundational” problems within the department.

If anything, Swain noted, progress has trended backward. “The use of force rate and other rates of violence, self-harm, and deaths in custody are demonstrably worse than when the Consent Judgment went into effect in 2015,” she wrote, with cases in which corrections officers used force against inmates climbing from around 4,500 incidents in 2016 (or a rate of 4 per 100 people) to nearly 7,000 (more than 9 per 100 people) in 2023.

These issues have been compounded by DOC’s unreliable record-keeping. Last year, the New York Daily News reported that the monitor had “no confidence” in the department’s in-house data on violence at Rikers and cited six attacks made with blades that had not been classified as slashings or stabbings.

At two recent hearings in September and October, City Council members pressed DOC leadership to explain why reforms recommended by watchdogs had not been fully implemented, and why a track record of abuses appeared to be continuing unabated.

At the October hearing, several formerly incarcerated women testified to what they said was a decades-long system that abetted sexual abuse of inmates by corrections officers at Rikers. Over 700 sexual lawsuits have been filed to date against the DOC through the 2022 Adult Survivors Act (ASA), which amended state law to allow sexual assault victims to file civil cases even if the statute of limitations had lapsed, for a one-year window.

Representatives for the corrections officers union argued that the federal judge’s concerns were mislaid.

“Seventy percent of our inmate population is facing violent felony charges,” said Benny Boscio, president of the Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association. “That same population is driving the hundreds of assaults on our officers, including sexual assaults, as well as inmate on inmate attacks, which requires necessary, not excessive force, to keep everyone in our jails safe. Outsourcing control of Rikers Island to a federal receiver will not be a silver bullet and will not solve any of these problems. Giving correction officers the manpower and resources to enforce law and order in our jails will.”

Historically, the union has wielded significant power over any changes within city jails. As The CITY reports, it has previously stonewalled reforms that would have introduced stab-resistant vests and reduced cases in which solitary confinement can be used to punish inmates.

Even when fixes are implemented, many do not last long. Federal monitors argued for years that body cameras were necessary to keep corrections officers accountable, and it eventually won out: by 2020, nearly every officer in city jails was required to wear one. But in 2024, the 3,500 devices were recalled by DOC Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie after a camera caught fire. According to Vital City, the review was slated to take at most two weeks; months later, the body cameras are still out of circulation.

While the initial target date for closure was delayed by a year until 2027, the city has maintained it is on track to close Rikers. Yet the federal judge’s decision reinforces broader skepticism that the DOC’s plan to redirect the island’s inmates to four borough-based jails will be feasible.

Per Swain’s order, the next step will now be for the Legal Aid Society, which filed the initial case back in 2012, to negotiate the terms of the receivership—including who will helm the effort—with city and federal officials. The relevant parties have until mid-January to do so.

Veterans Day Celebration Highlights Service and Sacrifice

BQE Admin on December 5, 2024

Courtesy JASA

The Rockaway Park Older Adult Center hosted a Veterans Day celebration honoring local veterans, including Linda Gree, a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant. 

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

In a tribute to local veterans, the JASA Rockaway Park Older Adult Center hosted a special Veterans Day celebration last month, recognizing the service and sacrifices of men and women who have served in the armed forces, including Linda Green, a distinguished local veteran. The event, held just days before Veterans Day, not only highlighted the veterans’ heroic contributions but also emphasized the lasting impact they continue to have on their communities.

JASA, a leading organization that has been serving older adults in New York City for more than 50 years, provides critical services to over 40,000 individuals each year. With its commitment to fostering independence and dignity for seniors, JASA has become a lifeline for older New Yorkers, offering a wide range of services from housing and home care to legal aid, health services, and social programming. At the heart of JASA’s mission is the belief that aging is an opportunity to continue living with purpose, and the Rockaway Park Older Adult Center is a prime example of this ethos.

The Rockaway Park center, like JASA’s 17 other Older Adult Centers across New York City, serves as a  hub for seniors to socialize, engage in educational and cultural activities, and receive a nutritious meal in a supportive environment. On this occasion, the center hosted a special ceremony to honor its veterans, providing a space for them to come together and be recognized for their invaluable service. The event included speeches, presentations, and a heartfelt moment of silence in remembrance of those who had passed.

Among the veterans celebrated was Linda Green, a long-time Rockaway Park resident and a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant. Linda’s life story is one of determination, service, and community involvement, and her journey from a young woman in Queens to a decorated military leader is a testament to her resilience and dedication to helping others.

Born in Jamaica, Queens in 1950, Linda moved to Far Rockaway in 1959, where she would live for most of her life. Growing up in a close-knit family, she describes her upbringing as “good” and “lovable,” surrounded by two supportive parents and a doting grandmother. However, like many young people, Linda faced the challenge of finding a meaningful career path after high school. It was during this period that she decided to enlist in the U.S. Army, a decision that would change the course of her life.

“I had a good upbringing. Two lovable parents, very good upbringing.  Grandmother, very good. At the time, I was job hunting, ” Green said. “Something told me to give the military a try. I was 30 years old when I enlisted. It wasn’t the usual age for someone to join, but it felt right, and I’m glad I made that choice.”

Courtesy Linda Green

Green’s decision to join the Army in 1980 was a pivotal moment in her life. Over the next 22 years, she served in various roles, ultimately retiring as a Master Sergeant in 2002. During her service, Linda worked in several capacities, but she is especially proud of her work as a liaison for military chaplains. In this role, she helped coordinate religious services for service members of all faiths, ensuring they could practice their beliefs in a respectful and supportive environment.

“I worked with the chaplain to set up ceremonies—whether it was Baptist, Jewish, or other services. It was about making sure people had the spiritual support they needed while they were away from home,” Green said. “It was something very good to do for people, and I liked It.”

Green’s work wasn’t confined to just one job in the military; her responsibilities were diverse, ranging from organizing religious ceremonies to managing logistics for military personnel. Despite the often demanding nature of her role, Green said she found fulfillment in helping others navigate the complexities of military life, offering support when needed, and ensuring that they had access to the resources they required.

After retiring in 2002, Green transitioned from military service to community service. She remained committed to helping others, particularly veterans and those facing serious health challenges. One of her primary outlets for service has been through knitting and crocheting for various causes, including the American Cancer Society and veterans’ organizations. Green and a group of dedicated women work together to create blankets, hats, and scarves for cancer patients, as well as red, white, and blue items for veterans.

“What I’ve been up to is I knit and crochet for the Cancer Society,” Green said. “I crochet hacks for the kids children. I make blankets for the kids and I knit the cotton hats for the cancer patients. That’s what I do. That’s what I’ve been doing since I’ve been out.”

Green’s charitable work doesn’t stop there. She has also been involved in supporting local veterans’ events, including an upcoming celebration for disabled veterans.

As a member of the Rockaway Park Older Adult Center, Greea’s efforts to support veterans are not only personal but also part of a larger community of seniors who gather regularly to participate in social activities, enjoy hot meals, and support one another through life’s challenges. The center offers a “home away from home” for seniors, with a robust array of programs designed to keep them active, engaged, and informed.

The Veterans Day event at the Rockaway Park Older Adult Center was a testament to the importance of community, memory, and service. The center’s warm, welcoming environment allowed veterans like Green to reflect on their time in service, share their experiences with others, and feel appreciated for their contributions.

In Green’s case, the recognition she received at the Veterans Day celebration was a moment of shared pride—not just for her military service but for the ongoing role she plays in her community. “It was a very nice event,” Green said of the ceremony. “We had a lot of veterans there, and it was nice to see people appreciate what we did, even if some people didn’t realize we were veterans.”

Green’s pride in her service is palpable, and it extends to her entire family. “I’m proud to be a veteran,” she said. “My father was a veteran, my brothers were veterans.”

Cross County Savings Bank, The Kiwanis Club of Middle Village & Village Barn Hosted Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive Giveaway

BQE Admin on December 5, 2024

Branch Ambassador Diane Marzuillo, UB Mauricio Romero, FSVP/Regional Manager Al Gentile & Management Trainee Andrew Trumbetti

Cross County Savings Bank’s six branches recently teamed up with The Kiwanis Club of Middle Village and Village Barn to host their 13th Annual Thanksgiving Food Drive giveaway. Thanks to the generosity of numerous donors, over 200 local families were provided with complete Thanksgiving dinners. In addition, nonperishable food donations were distributed to several area food pantries. Pictured are members of the Cross County Savings Bank’s team, who volunteered their time to help make this event a success.

New Funding Aims to Combat Crime, Support Victims on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens

BQE Admin on December 5, 2024

Courtesy office of Jessica González-Rojas

Governor Kathy Hochul announced $1 million in funding for four local nonprofits to address crime, human trafficking, and workforce challenges on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens.

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

In a coordinated effort to address growing concerns over illegal activities, human trafficking, and crime on Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, Governor Kathy Hochul, local lawmakers, and community organizations have joined forces to support vulnerable residents with new funding. At an event held at Queens Borough Hall, Governor Hochul announced the allocation of $1 million in discretionary funding to four local nonprofits.

Spanning from approximately 104th Street through Corona, Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and extending to 72nd Street, Roosevelt Avenue has allegedly become increasingly dominated by organized crime syndicates, drug traffickers, human traffickers, pimps, and unlicensed street vendors. The area has also seen a surge in illegal marijuana shops and shoplifting rings, contributing to a pervasive sense of insecurity among residents and small business owners.

This financial support is aimed at tackling some of the most pressing issues in the Roosevelt Avenue corridor, including human trafficking, workforce development, and access to vital services for immigrant communities. The funding will be divided among AIDS Center For Queens County (ACQC), Korean American Family Services Center (KAFSC), Commonpoint Queens, and New Immigrant Community Empowerment (NICE), with each receiving $250,000.

Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas, who serves as Chair of the Subcommittee on Human Trafficking, expressed strong support for the funding and the ongoing efforts to tackle the complex issues on Roosevelt Avenue.

“Today’s announcement is just one of many steps my colleagues and I are taking to address the challenges on Roosevelt Avenue,” González-Rojas said. “The funding provided to these organizations will strengthen efforts to support victims of violence and trafficking through social services, offer workforce development programs to help constituents find employment, and provide necessary health resources to vulnerable populations. These local investments in community organizations are essential. I look forward to continuing our collaboration with Governor Hochul and my fellow elected officials.”

Roosevelt Avenue, a bustling thoroughfare in the heart of Queens, has faced a variety of challenges in recent years. The area, home to a large immigrant population, has been disproportionately impacted by criminal activity, including a troubling increase in human trafficking. While the sources of crime are complex and multifaceted, immigrant communities have often been unfairly blamed, exacerbating tensions and increasing feelings of vulnerability among residents.

To address these concerns, González-Rojas has been actively working with community groups to find solutions. She recently held a roundtable with human trafficking experts and local nonprofits, where strategies for providing better support to residents were discussed.

Courtesy office of Jessica González-Rojas

The funding aims to support immigrant communities with social services, job training, and trafficking prevention while promoting safer neighborhoods.

“The city has very historically, disinvested in Roosevelt Avenue, and we’re seeing everything from, you know, lack of access to resources to a proliferation of street vending to sex work in the community and potentially human trafficking, and we know this has caused a lot of quality of life concerns for our neighbors,” González-Rojas said. 

Local organizations like NICE, Commonpoint Queens, and KAFSC provide critical services to immigrants, offering everything from job training and healthcare navigation to resources that help people escape from dangerous situations, including human trafficking. According to González-Rojas, these organizations are often the first line of defense for people who need help.

In addition to the funding, there has been ongoing debate about the approach to addressing the issues on Roosevelt Avenue. Earlier this year, New York City Mayor Eric Adams authorized the deployment of state troopers to the area to combat crime.

“When people have their basic needs, then you see a much safer society,” González-Rojas said. “And, you know, sending troopers down doesn’t actually address that problem. It just hides it for a period of time, and we still will have a problem we’re meeting.”

González-Rojas and other local leaders have raised concerns about the effectiveness of a heavy-handed law enforcement approach.

Assembly Members Catalina Cruz and Steven Raga, as well as Assembly Member-elect Larinda Hooks and Council Member Shekar Krishnan, have also been vocal in their support for the funding, which they believe will help mitigate the negative effects of disinvestment and criminalization in the area.

“We have to look at upstream solutions to issues,” González-Rojas said.” We have to ask, what are people feeling or, why are people on the street doing street vending? Why are people doing engaging in sex work? What’s the core issue that’s central to these, these situations?”

As the funding begins to flow into local organizations, advocates are hopeful that the increased support will lead to tangible improvements for the people who call Roosevelt Avenue home.

“I’m very excited to  be looking at the solutions that are going to get into more of the proof of the issue, and work with the groups that are the closest to the community and are working on the ground to really support the community and giving them a leg up to make our neighborhood safer and more opportunities for them,” González-Rojas said. 

 

Celebrate Asian Animation at the CTAF Festival

BQE Admin on December 5, 2024

Courtesy of Flushing Town Hall

The hybrid event offers in-person and online access, celebrating diverse storytelling, artistry, and innovation in animation.

By MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

Flushing Town Hall is set to host the 5th annual Crazy Talented Asians & Friends (CTAF) Animation Festival on Friday, December 6 at 6 p.m. This hybrid event, which will be held both in-person at Flushing Town Hall and live streamed on YouTube, promises to be an exciting evening of extraordinary short films and motion graphics created by Asian and Asian American artists from around the world.

The festival will feature a curated selection of the top 3% of over 1,000 submissions from across the globe, showcasing some of the most innovative and visually stunning animation and motion design work of the year. The films, which range in length from just a few minutes to about five minutes each, include a variety of genres and styles, each offering unique perspectives on storytelling, animation techniques, and sound design.

“Flushing Town Hall is proud to support emerging artists of Asian heritage and help amplify their voices and stories,” said Ellen Kodadek, Executive and Artistic Director of Flushing Town Hall. “This festival aligns with our mission to foster arts equity and celebrate diverse perspectives. In collaboration with Crazy Talented Asians & Friends, we are thrilled to provide a platform that celebrates unique, innovative storytelling and showcases the incredible talent in our community. Audiences can expect an inspiring evening filled with imagination, resilience, and cultural pride.” 

The event will kick off with a screening of several award-winning films, including Express Photo, Sheep Shapes, and Sprout. These films, selected for their exceptional artistry and storytelling, will be followed by a lively post-screening mixer at 7:30 p.m., where attendees will have the chance to meet the filmmakers, engage with industry professionals, and discuss the creative process behind these remarkable works.

Still shot from one of the winning films, “CHAIN” by Lin Han

Flushing Town Hall will host the 5th annual Crazy Talented Asians & Friends Animation Festival on December 6, featuring top global short films and motion graphics by Asian and Asian American artists. 

“New York City, the epicenter of creativity, is the best place to experience the wonder of animation on the big screen and mingle with other animators and motion designers,” said Ming-I Huang, Guest Producer at Flushing Town Hall. “Motion graphic design is a powerful tool for creatives and all businesses. We are thrilled to also present the winners in this new category selected by the industry experts on the CTAF jury.”

The CTAF Animation Festival was founded in 2019, coinciding with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, the event was held entirely online, giving it a global reach but limiting the opportunity for in-person community building. Over the past five years, the festival has grown in scope, with increasing participation from emerging animators and motion designers. The 2023 festival saw hundreds of attendees at Flushing Town Hall, and this year’s hybrid model, combining live screenings and online access, is expected to draw an even larger audience.

“They are short films, usually around five minutes or less, and it’s just such a fantastic way of telling stories,” Huang said. “We have stories about personal journeys all the way up to something cute. Like this year, we have a work based on a famous tourist place in China, where the monkeys are notorious for snatching tourists’ cameras. It’s called Express Photo, and in just two minutes, it captures the funny, silly interactions between the tourists and the monkey family of five.”

The festival is not only about celebrating artistic achievements but also about fostering community and providing a support network for up-and-coming artists. Many of the participating animators are still in the early stages of their careers, and the festival offers them valuable exposure and the chance to connect with industry professionals who can help guide their careers forward.

“One of the winners this year is called Chain. It’s a take from a very ancient Chinese proverb, over 2,000 years old, about struggling as a student in the U.S. while pursuing animation art,” Huang said. “It’s something a lot of other immigrants can relate to—how you struggle, triumph, and face more challenges, but ultimately have personal victories.”

The films featured in the Crazy Talented Asians & Friends Animation Festival are selected through a rigorous, multi-step process. Submissions are judged in five key categories: storytelling, artistry, animation techniques, sound design, and editing. Each film is evaluated by a panel of professional animators and industry experts, including faculty members from the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City.

“Animation is such a versatile art form,” Huang said. “It’s a way to tell stories that resonate with people of all ages. Parents can watch with their kids. A lot of high school students are very interested in animation art because of all the superheroes, but it’s another way to use animation to express themselves.”

This year’s festival includes films in several categories, including best 3D animation, best motion design, best stop-motion animation, and best sound design. Each category features innovative work that demonstrates the growing diversity and talent within the Asian and Asian American animation community.

In addition to the films, the festival will also highlight the growing role of motion graphic design, an art form that combines animation with graphic design to create powerful visual narratives for both commercial and artistic purposes.

 “Motion design is such a versatile and impactful medium,” Huang said. “From branding to advertising to digital media, it’s used everywhere. It’s exciting to see so many talented animators exploring this space and using it to tell compelling stories.”

The Crazy Talented Asians & Friends Animation Festival is particularly significant in its focus on amplifying the voices of Asian and Asian American artists. Huang, who is deeply involved in the animation community, emphasized the importance of providing a platform for these artists to share their work in an industry that has often overlooked their contributions.

For Huang, the festival is also a way to build a stronger, more connected community of Asian and Asian American animators. 

“We really want people to come and have fun, to see a fantastic hour in sound and motion,” Huang said. “The artists are so talented, and it’s such a fantastic experience. We had 175 people at the Town Hall last year, and no one wanted to leave!”

The Crazy Talented Asians & Friends Animation Festival will take place on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 6 p.m. at Flushing Town Hall, located at 137-35 Northern Blvd. in Flushing, N.Y. Tickets for the in-person event are available for purchase through the Flushing Town Hall website at tinyurl.com/AnimationFest.

For those who are unable to attend in person, the festival will be live streamed for free on YouTube, making it accessible to more viewers.

 

Leaders Distribute Turkeys for Thanksgiving All Over the City

BQE Admin on December 5, 2024

Community members, city leaders, and elected officials, including council members and senators, came together over the past two weeks to host turkey distribution events across the city, ensuring families in need could celebrate Thanksgiving. From neighborhood gatherings to large-scale giveaways, the initiatives aimed to combat food insecurity and bring holiday cheer to underserved communities.

Councilmember Sandra Ung continued her annual Thanksgiving tradition of giving back to the community by hosting her largest Turkey Giveaway to date. This year, 526 turkeys were distributed to local community groups, nonprofits, food pantries, NYCHA residents, and constituents, ensuring families across the district can enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal.

Office of Councilmember Sandra Ung

“The generosity of our sponsors makes it possible for us to help families facing difficult economic times,” said Councilmember Sandra Ung. “These free turkeys are a small gesture, but they bring a little peace of mind and one less thing to worry about during the holiday season. I am so grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s giveaway our biggest yet.”

Councilmember Ung has hosted a Turkey Giveaway every year since taking office, and each year, the event has grown in scale. 

Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris partnered with the Carpenters Contractor Alliance of Metropolitan New York, Woodside Houses Tenant Association, and Sunnyside Community Services to supply turkeys to families in Western Queens.  The event included a turkey distribution, hot meals, PPE, and information on the New York State Home Energy Assistance Program.

Courtesy Office of Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris

“I am proud to work with community organizations and partners to ensure every family can enjoy a proper Thanksgiving meal,” said Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris. “I will continue working to serve those in need during the holidays and all year round.” 

Courtesy Office of Senate Deputy Leader Michael Gianaris

Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, in partnership with UA3, hosted his annual Thanksgiving food distribution event outside of Brooklyn Borough Hall. Staff distributed over 60,000 pounds of fresh produce, non-perishables, and other food items to more than 120 Brooklyn houses of worship, community kitchens, and other community-based organizations addressing food insecurity and homelessness.  

Courtesy Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso

“Thanksgiving is a time to come together to practice gratitude, eat fresh food, and spend time with loved ones. Unfortunately, for too many Brooklynites, it’s a reminder of the challenges they face to put food on the table,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “While the fight against food insecurity is every day and ongoing, I am so thankful to our partners and staff who’ve worked so hard to ensure more Brooklynites can enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving meal with turkey, rice, potatoes, carrots, apples, beans, and more. I wish all of Brooklyn a very joyous Thanksgiving!”  

Courtesy Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso

Courtesy Office of Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso

Senator Jessica Ramos (D, SD-13) hosted her annual Turkey Giveaway on November 20th at P.S. 19 in Corona, where, along with IUJAT and the Carpenters, the office gave out over 400 turkeys, including halal and kosher options. This event featured free books, live music by the High School for Arts and Business Jazz Band, and hot food served by The World Changers. Collaborating with the VFW Post 150, the Senator hosted a second Turkey Giveaway on November 27th, where they served another 200 families with frozen turkeys. 

Courtesy Office of Senator Jessica Ramos

During the week before Thanksgiving, the office of Senator Ramos distributed another 400 turkeys to schools, churches, and non-profits in Jackson Heights, Elmhurst, East-Elmhurst, and Corona.

Courtesy Office of Senator Jessica Ramos

“This time of year is significant for our neighbors and their families but remains an unfortunate reminder of the high cost of living that impacts our communities,” said State Senator Jessica. “I am grateful to have helped alleviate some of the burden of expensive Thanksgiving dinners for many families in the district. We are particularly grateful for our partners and sponsors who gave their time or resources to ensure families had a home-cooked meal this holiday.”

 

Courtesy Office of Senator Jessica Ramos

The Astoria Welfare Society also distributed halal chicken & vegetables on Sunday Nov 26 Tuesday to more than 150 families and other community members in need at 30th Street and 36th Avenue in Astoria.

Courtesy the Astoria Welfare Society

New York Will Cooperate with Trump’s Immigration Enforcement

BQE Admin on December 3, 2024

 

By Robert Hornak

 

President-Elect Trump has promised that addressing our border crises and removing illegal aliens will be two of his top priorities. Meanwhile, mayors of sanctuary cities around the country are bloviating and beating their chests claiming they will stop the federal government from enforcing our nation’s immigration laws. 

The one place without this false bravado is New York, which has been the hardest hit of any state in the country. With over 600,000 illegals that have been identified – more than one-third of those in NYC alone – billions of dollars are being wasted in NY to accommodate people who did not have permission to enter our country. 

This may be part of the reason that both the governor and mayor are not bellowing that they will obstruct Trumps efforts, a promise that was in large part why he was re-elected. But it may go deeper than that.

Sanctuary policies have been with us for decades. And, initially, for a good reason. We realized people here illegally were afraid to report crimes or testify in trials due to the fear of being identified and deported. They were the perfect victims for predators. A clear policy that we would not even look at their immigration status while they cooperate in criminal prosecutions made perfect sense to fight crime. 

But recently, with the growing anti-police, pro-criminal attitude by officeholders in cities around the country, these policies have morphed into an opposition to cooperating with federal authorities, particularly Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), even regarding gang members and those committing serious crimes. 

Former Governor Cuomo even went so far as to call ICE agents thugs and declared emphatically he would not cooperate with them in any way. However, the attitude in NY seems to be changing, now that the crisis has taken an incredible toll on both the city and state budgets. But more importantly, it may be taking a toll at the ballot box. And that, of course, is what really gets the attention of politicians. 

They realize that Trump has a tremendous arsenal at his disposal of ways he can force the hand of anyone trying to block legal efforts to take illegal immigrants into custody. Trying to play the weaker position in this standoff could push NY, already trending deep purple, to go over the brink and become a red state again. 

NY is always looking for funding from the president for any number of projects and to close budget gaps. Hochul is also trying to launch the MTA’s congestion pricing scheme, taxing drivers for entering Manhattan in a controversial cash grab. Trump has promised to block this plan and may very possibly be able to. NY could be severely financially penalized for not cooperating, in many ways.

Trump also has law enforcement on his side. While many cities now have laws against cooperating with ICE and block federal authorities from accessing the local jails, federal law has supremacy. The courts will be on Trump’s side. And, there is nothing preventing them from asking for “unofficial” help and setting up a whistleblower hotline for law enforcement and court officers.

NYC was recently reported to have 58,000 illegals who are either convicted felons or facing criminal charges, including 1,000 gang members. This has directly contributed to the decline in the quality of life and the feeling of lawlessness felt by both residents and commuters. 

This has directly contributed to the results in the last two statewide elections. Democrats worried about their re-election because of declining public safety and reduced public services from overblown budgets are going to make their peace with the mistakes of the past and work with President Trump to clean up this mess.

 

 

Robert Hornak is a professional political consultant who has previously served as the Deputy Director of the Republican Assembly Leader’s NYC office and as Executive Director of the Queens Republican Party. He can be reached at rahornak@gmail.com and @RobertHornak on X.

 

 

Outdoor Dining Rules Leave Restaurants in Crisis

BQE Admin on December 2, 2024

Forest Hills Bistro Dismantles Outdoor Structure Amid City Mandate

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

After months of efforts to preserve a beloved outdoor dining structure, Nick’s Bistro on Metropolitan Avenue was forced to take down its sturdy, custom-built setup last week, following a city mandate.

The structure, which had been a lifeline for the restaurant and its staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, was dismantled by a private crew hired by owner Tom Avallone, managing partner of Nick’s Bistro located at 104-20 Metropolitan Ave, Forest Hills, who expressed deep frustration over the city’s lack of consideration for businesses like his.

“The crew, they’re efficient, clean, and careful, but this whole situation shouldn’t have come to this,” Avallone said as workers removed the structure. “The city let us build this, and now they’ve made it impossible to keep.”

The bistro, which has served the Forest Hills community for over 15 years, was among countless small businesses that invested heavily in outdoor dining setups during the pandemic. For Nick’s Bistro, this meant constructing a durable structure designed to withstand 100 mph winds, complete with heating, lighting, and safety measures.

Nick’s Bistro in Forest Hills was forced to dismantle its outdoor dining structure due to the city’s stricter guidelines, resulting in a 50% drop in staff and revenue.

However, new city regulations have forced many restaurants to either comply with stringent rules or dismantle their outdoor setups entirely. Initially, the city required compliance by November 1, but an extension to December was granted — after Avallone had already started dismantling non-essential components like the sound system and heating. The delay, he said, was a second blow to his business.

“They screwed us once by mandating this. Then they screwed us again by telling us we had an extra month after we’d already started tearing things down,” Avallone said. “It’s maddening.”

The removal has reduced the restaurant’s seating capacity from 100 to just 46, which Avallone says will devastate his business during the crucial holiday season.

“I’m going to have to cut my staff by 50%,” he said. “I can’t afford to keep the same number of employees when I’ve lost half my revenue-producing space. These are people who’ve been with me for years, and now they’re wondering how they’ll pay their bills or buy Christmas gifts for their kids.”

The loss of the outdoor dining structure is also expected to deter a significant portion of Nick’s customer base. Elderly patrons, who preferred the outdoor area during flu and COVID seasons, are reluctant to dine indoors.

“They’ve already told me they don’t feel comfortable being inside, even with the heaters,” Avallone said. “These are loyal customers, and now I’m losing them too.”

The financial impact is staggering. Between dismantling the structure, lost revenue, and additional costs, Avallone estimates the total loss to be “hundreds of thousands of dollars.” He also criticized the city’s handling of the situation, particularly the decision to allow businesses to extend their permits only if they paid application fees for the following year.

“It’s legalized extortion,” he said. “They made us pay for something we couldn’t even use.” A Broader Problem for Small Businesses Avallone also pointed to larger systemic issues with the city’s outdoor dining policies. He argued that the city failed to distinguish between well-maintained structures like his and those that had become eyesores or health hazards.

The owner, Tom Avallone, calls for clearer policies to support small businesses struggling to adapt.

“The city let some places fall apart, and those should’ve been removed,” Avallone said. “But our structure was built with integrity. Instead of evaluating each one individually, they lumped us all together and punished everyone.”

Adding to his frustration, Avallone said the city hired hundreds of inspectors to enforce compliance but failed to conduct thorough assessments. “I spent 45 minutes presenting my case to the Department of Transportation, showing them 3,000 signatures from customers who wanted the structure to stay. They didn’t care. It all fell on deaf ears.”

A Heartbreaking End for a Community Staple Nick’s Bistro has been a cornerstone of Forest Hills for over a decade, fostering a sense of community among its patrons and employees. Many customers expressed their dismay as the structure was taken down.

“People driving by have been stopping to sign our petition,” Avallone said. “They tell us we’re an invaluable part of the community, and they’re heartbroken to see this happen.”

The dismantling process was particularly difficult for Tom and his staff, as they watched years of hard work reduced to rubble. “This wasn’t thrown together with pallets. It was built to last,” he said. “Now, everything’s being thrown away — the plants, the materials, everything. It’s heartbreaking.”

Looking ahead, Avallone is uncertain about the future of his business. “I’m losing my volume discounts on food because I can’t order as much, and I’m losing my staff, my customers, and my ability to operate during the busiest time of year,” he said. “All because the city didn’t do its job properly.”

Despite the challenges, Tom remains committed to serving his community. “This isn’t just a business — it’s a family,” he said. “We’ve been here for 15 years, and we’ll do everything we can to stay, even if the city makes it impossible.”

NYC Passes FARE Act, Shifting Broker Fees to Landlords

BQE Admin on December 2, 2024

The FARE Act, passed by the New York City Council, shifts the responsibility of broker fees from tenants to landlords, aiming to reduce financial burdens on renters.

MOHAMED FARGHALY

mfarghaly@queensledger.com

New York City renters will no longer shoulder the cost of broker fees for agents hired by landlords, following the passage of the Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses (FARE) Act. The City Council approved the legislation on Wednesday in a 42-8 vote, shifting a financial burden that has long frustrated tenants in one of the nation’s most expensive rental markets.

The FARE Act mandates that the party who hires a broker — typically the landlord — must cover the broker’s fee. These fees, which average 12–15% of a year’s rent, often amount to thousands of dollars. For example, a broker fee for a $3,000-a-month apartment can total $5,400. The law also requires landlords and their agents to disclose these fees upfront in rental listings and agreements, a move aimed at increasing transparency.

The legislation will take effect in 180 days, fundamentally altering a rental process that has set New York apart from most other cities, where landlords typically pay broker fees.

Advocates of the FARE Act argue the law will eliminate the longstanding practice of tenants being forced to pay for brokers who solely represent landlords’ interests.

However, critics warn the measure could backfire, leading to higher rents as landlords seek to offset the added cost. While rent-stabilized apartments are protected from such increases, market-rate units could see adjustments, opponents say.

The legislation comes at a time when rents in New York City continue to climb, adding financial strain to renters already grappling with record-high housing costs. In October, the median asking rent in Manhattan reached $4,200, a sharp increase compared to pre-pandemic levels.

The city’s real estate industry, which lobbied heavily against the bill, argues that broker fees reflect the work brokers perform, such as coordinating showings, conducting background checks, and managing communication with landlords.

Still, tenant advocates have long pushed for reforms, especially as virtual tours and online listings reduce the need for traditional broker services. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this shift, leaving many renters questioning the necessity of steep broker fees.

Courtesy Freepik

While advocates praise the move as a step toward affordability, critics warn it may lead to higher rents as landlords adjust to the new costs.

With the FARE Act now signed into law, New York City joins other metropolitan areas in redefining the rental process — though its impact on rents and the broader housing market remains to be seen.

Thomas Chimber, who moved to New York City from Syracuse late last year, is entering the real estate industry at a pivotal moment. After obtaining his real estate license over the summer, Chimber was thrilled to land a position with the Corcoran Group in Manhattan. However, just days into his first week on the job, the announcement of the Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses (FARE) Act sent shockwaves through the real estate world, reshaping a longstanding dynamic in New York City’s rental market.

While some newcomers to the field might feel daunted by such a major shift, Chimber views the change as an opportunity rather than a setback. He believes the FARE Act could have an indirect but significant impact on how prospective buyers and renters approach the housing market. The increased transparency and reduced upfront costs for tenants, he suggests, could encourage more people to explore their options and make decisions more confidently, which would ultimately benefit the industry as a whole.

“I’m just excited to be starting my career in such a dynamic market,” Chimber said, emphasizing that adapting to change is part of what makes New York City real estate both challenging and rewarding. Despite the uncertainties brought about by the new legislation, he remains enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead and is eager to help clients navigate the evolving landscape.

Nick E. Smith, Executive Director of Communities Resist, expressed strong support for the FARE Act following its passage by the New York City Council. Communities Resist, a housing legal services organization led by people of color, focuses on preventing gentrification and displacement in low-income communities.

“For far too long, renters across this city have faced exorbitant broker fees. With rents soaring, these fees are another obstacle to New Yorkers trying to find an affordable place to live. The Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses (FARE) Act is a critical step towards combating our housing crisis and helping New Yorkers find a place they can afford to call home. I applaud Council Member Ossé for introducing this critical piece of legislation. I look forward to seeing the FARE Act become law as soon as possible,” Smith said.

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