Chief Promises Police Around Racino by Stephen Geffon - Queens Chronicle: South Queens News

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As the September opening day for the Resorts World New York casino in South Ozone Park edges closer, nervous neighborhood residents concerned about their safety were assured by Patrol Borough Queens South Assistant Chief James Secreto that the police manpower necessary to protect them will be provided.

Secreto told the members of the 106th Precinct Community Council at their meeting last week that if top police officials don’t give him the additional officers he has requested, he will provide them from the borough’s resources.

“One way or another we are going to have cops there,” said Secreto.

Residents fear that the influx of an estimated 8.4 million people a year into the neighborhood will add traffic and increase the risk of crimes and quality of life issues. Some expressed concern that prostitutes may be drawn into the area.

City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) has also voiced the concerns of his constituents and recently asked for additional police officers for the 106th Precinct in advance of the casino’s opening.

“While the new racino is scheduled to open later this summer, many of my constituents are still concerned about the level of police protection the community will receive from the NYPD,” Ulrich wrote in a recent letter to Police Commissioner Ray Kelly. “Despite the fact that vehicular and foot traffic will increase, it still remains unclear if and when the local precinct will receive additional police personnel. Undoubtedly, more police officers will be needed to patrol the residential neighborhoods surrounding the facility.”

David Quintana of Ozone Park told Secreto that he saw a large contingent of police officers standing around the New York Stock Exchange building in Manhattan. He said that in light of the expected 30,000 visitors a day coming into the neighborhood surrounding the casino, “we could use some of those officers out here.”

On the noise abatement front, the precinct’s ongoing effort to quiet troublemakers resulted in the issuance of 26 noise summonses during the period from May 30 to June 5, according to Community Affairs officer Ken Zorn.

He added that 32 noise summonses were issued the week before.

A Lindenwood resident complained that cars are still speeding through area stop signs without stopping. Capt. Thomas Pascale told him officers would be made aware of this problem.

With the Fourth of July approaching, 106th Precinct police officers will be taking a zero-tolerance stance on fireworks use.

“For children’s safety and the safety of all residents, we are going to make sure that we prevent the discharge of fireworks,” said a police department official.

Fireworks burn at an extremely high temperature and can quickly burn through clothing and skin, causing serious injuries. Items such as sparklers are mistakenly thought to be safe, when even they can be very dangerous, the officers said, adding that fireworks should only be handled by trained professionals.

Pascale said that 40 additional police officers will be assigned to the precinct’s fireworks detail on July 4.

He also said that a police command post will be set up in front of the Starbucks store on Crossbay Boulevard.

DiResto Eying Pheffer's Assembly Seat by Toni Cimino - Queens Courier

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Retired NYPD Lieutenant Glenn DiResto may be throwing his hat in the ring for Audrey Pheffer’s empty Assembly seat.

At least one person may be throwing his hat in the ring for Audrey Pheffer’s empty Assembly seat.

Retired NYPD Lieutenant Glenn DiResto said he decided to explore the possibility of running for the seat after Pheffer’s former chief of staff, Jo Ann Shapiro, decided not to run.

“Jo Ann has a tremendous amount of experience and would have been a great candidate. However, with her not running it makes the race more appealing,” said DiResto.

DiResto was a former City Council candidate in the 2009 Special Election that was won by Eric Ulrich.

“I am interested in the position because the problems that face our neighborhoods are the same as they were two years ago,” said DiResto. “We really need someone who understands the problems of the neighborhoods and has the personal, professional and civic experience to help solve those problems.”

DiResto has said he does not expect to get an official party line designation and notes he “hopes to be making a final decision in the next couple weeks” as to whether or not he will run.

“As a constituent, I believe everyone has an opportunity to run,” said County Clerk Pheffer. “There are many people who are very involved, and those who run must be responsive to the community.”

The 23rd Assembly district encompasses areas of Ozone Park, Howard Beach and the Rockaways. Pheffer told The Courier that the biggest challenge for whoever fills the seat will be the budget.

“He or she needs preparation to learn the process and make decisions,” she said. “The budget process is tough, and there’s still a deficit.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo has not yet set a date for the Special Election.

We Are Being Lied To - MoveOn Civic Action & The Other 98% Flash Mob

I participated in this action on Monday June 6th, if you look closely you can see me in the top left hand corner holding a piece of the letter "W" (see the still photo below)...

Earlier this week, our amazing members joined MoveOn in putting together a flash mob of concerned citizens standing on the steps of Federal Hall on Wall Street, with one simple message for financial elites: We Are Being Lied To.

Click on photo to enlarge

thanks to Dennis P. Osorio for the photo

Bike Lanes - Citizen Strikes Back at NYPD for Ticketing Him - It's a Hilarious PSA! by Caseyneistat

Check it out



h/t: Harris Walker

News From City Council Member Eric Ulrich

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Celebrates Opening of Rockaway Beach for Summer

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) joined Parks Department officials, residents and colleagues in government on the boardwalk at Beach 97^th Street in Rockaway on Friday to celebrate the annual opening of the city’s public beaches. After reminders from Parks Commissioner Adrian Benepe to stay safe this summer, the officials and residents sampled some of the food available on the boardwalk this summer and tried their hand at beach tennis.

Ulrich said, “As we all know, Rockaway continues to be one of the city’s best kept secrets. It’s a wonderful place to live, work and raise a family, and to enjoy the beach. There are lots of new and exciting amenities this year, and I encourage everyone in Queens to visit this summer and discover the beauty Rockaway has to offer.”

In all, the City boasts 14 miles of beaches that attracted 19 million visitors last year. New this year will be food concessions run by Rockaway Beach Club, LLC, which will serve tacos, po’ boys, arepas, enchiladas, Italian ices and more at snack bars at Beach 86^th, 97^th and 106^th streets. In addition, a mile of new boardwalk is open this year along stretches between Beach 23^rd and Beach 81^st streets.

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich: Additional Police Presence Needed at Aqueduct

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) is asking the NYPD to assign additional police officers to the 106th Precinct in advance of the planned September opening of video lottery terminals at Aqueduct Race Track in Ozone Park.

The new racino is expected to draw more than eight million visitors each year, and local residents and Community Board 10 have already expressed concerns about the current staffing levels at the local precinct.

Ulrich said, “In order to keep our streets safe, we are going to need more cops at the 106^th Precinct. My constituents should not have to worry about any rise in crime that might emanate from Aqueduct. We need to do everything we can to guarantee a good quality of life for the neighborhoods surrounding the track. This request is more than reasonable.”

Ulrich had the opportunity to speak directly with Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly during a recent Public Safety Committee hearing and in a May 18 letter to the department. He requested that the new officers be assigned beginning in the new fiscal year so they will have time to acclimate themselves to the area before the racino opens.

In the letter to Commissioner Kelly, Ulrich wrote, “While the new racino is scheduled to open later this summer, many of my constituents are still concerned about the level of police protection the community will receive from the NYPD. Despite the fact that vehicular and foot traffic will increase, it still remains unclear if and when the local precinct will receive additional police personnel. Undoubtedly, more police officers will be needed to patrol the residential neighborhoods surrounding the facility… I believe this request is warranted given the size and scope of the new venue and the necessary planning that will go into maintaining a good quality of life for area residents.”

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Statement on Mayor's Plan to Close Engine 294 and Other Fire Companies

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) released the following statement on the Mayor's plan to close 20 fire companies around the City, including Engine 294:

“The Mayor’s plan to close Engine 294 and other fire companies around the city is downright dangerous. Response times will go up and lives will be put at risk. Woodhaven and Richmond Hill desperately need adequate fire protection and emergency services, especially since many of the homes there are attached, wood-frame structures. We simply cannot balance the budget by putting people in harm’s way. Mark my words - budget cuts like these can be deadly and I will do everything in my power to fight them.”

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Co-Sponsors Bill to Prevent Children from Being Exposed to Pornography in Public Libraries Council Members Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) and David G. Greenfield (D-Brooklyn) announced bipartisan legislation on Sunday that will protect children at New York City’s public libraries from exposure to Internet pornography. The legislation would make it a misdemeanor criminal offense for any adult to view pornographic materials within 100 feet of a minor in a public library. Ulrich said, “This is a common sense piece of legislation aimed at protecting our children while they spend time at the library. Kids shouldn’t be exposed to sexually explicit content, and taxpayers shouldn’t have to foot the bill for it either. This is a serious concern for many people who don’t want their children subjected to this form of public indecency.” Greenfield said, “I am a strong supporter of our public libraries and the value and rich experiences that they provide to New Yorkers. Part of that experience, however, should not be traumatizing children by exposing them to sexual predators and debasing pornography. Our bipartisan legislation would send an unmistakable message to sexual predators: expose yourself to children and you will go to jail.” The legislation would make viewing pornography within 100 feet of a child a misdemeanor carrying fines of between $1,000 and $10,000 and the possibility of jail time, as determined by a judge. Because the proposed legislation is narrowly tailored to protect children, it is expected to pass any constitutional challenges.

NYC Council Member Eric Ulrich Statement on Mayor’s Proposed Budget

Council Member Eric A. Ulrich (R-Queens) today released the following statement in response to Mayor Bloomberg’s FY 2012 Executive Budget:

Ulrich said, “This is a very difficult budget. Even though years of prudent fiscal planning helped the city weather the recession better than most, cuts still seem inevitable. I’m especially concerned about the impact potential teacher layoffs will have on class size in our schools, and I’m also worried about the proposed firehouse closings. As an alternative, I am encouraging my colleagues to seriously consider some of the recommendations that have already been made by the Independent Budget Office. Rest assured, before the City Council adopts the budget, I will do everything in my power to protect vital services and persuade the Mayor to find money elsewhere.”

NYS Senator Joe Addabbo's Statement on the Proposed Cuts to NYC Homeland Security Federal Funding

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens), released the following statement on the New York State Senate Homeland Security hearing held on Friday, April 8, 2011, and the proposed cuts to New York City’s Homeland Security federal funding:

It was my intent to participate in a focused hearing which was to examine the security of the New York City residents, and surrounding areas, ten years after the tragedy of 9/11. Based on the testimony of witnesses and my questioning of those witnesses, my main concern continues to be the governmental funding and interaction of the entities involved in maintaining the safety of individuals, namely the NYPD, FDNY, MTA and Port Authority. I intend, as the ranking member of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, to continue my efforts in finding the means available to improve the safety and security of people locally and throughout the city and state.

News and Notes from Rep Anthony Weiner (NY-9th)

Social Security Administration Targets Glendale Office for Closure

Weiner, Velazquez Call for Branch to Remain Open

On Tuesday, outside the Glendale Social Security office that is set to shut its doors on July 15^th, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D – Queens and Brooklyn), joined by concerned residents, senior citizens and representatives of local elected officials, called on the Social Security Administration to keep the Glendale office open, so that residents of Central Queens won’t be denied access to the vital services it provides

Today, with the Social Security office located in Glendale set to close its doors this summer, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D – Queens and Brooklyn) and Rep. Nydia Velazquez urged the agency to keep the Glendale office open, so that residents in large swaths of Central Queens won’t be denied access to the vital services it provides.

Two weeks ago, in what it described as an effort to save money, the Social Security Administration announced to local elected officials and community leaders that the Glendale office, located at 67-10 Myrtle Avenue, would be scheduled to shut its doors on July 15^th. In the process, thousands of residents who rely upon the office, including seniors and retired and disabled residents, would be left without access to many of the important services provided by the agency.

From assisting with claims for retirement benefits, to helping with Medicare enrollment and applying for Social Security, the Glendale office provides a vital service to those who rely upon it the most. The office ensures that thousands of residents in neighborhoods like Glendale, Ridgewood, Maspeth, Fresh Pond and Middle Village receive the benefits they not only deserve, but have earned over a lifetime of hard work.

Weiner is calling on the agency to forestall the closure of the Glendale office, so that the community’s large senior population as well as disabled residents will not be forced to travel all the way to Rego Park for another Social Security office.

Weiner is also committed to working with the agency to help find an alternative, easily-accessible location that would allow the agency to keep its presence in the Central Queens community and ensure that seniors and residents of Central Queens continue to have access to the essential services the office provides.

“My older neighbors rely on Social Security to be the impressive and successful program that it is, and accessibility to an office that provides information and help about their benefits is vital,” Weiner said in a letter to Beatrice Disman, Regional Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. “I urge you to keep the current office open or to find a new, easily-accessible location for an office in the area.”

“The Social Security office in Glendale is part of the community’s fabric. Closing it would increase the time it takes for citizens to resolve problems, have new claims processed and obtain approval for benefits,” said Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez.

As baby boomers continue to reach the retirement age, the number of seniors in neighborhoods like Glendale, Maspeth, Middle Village, Ridgewood and others who require assistance from the Social Security Administration, will invariably grow. Closing the Glendale Social Security office would only prevent the needs of thousands of residents throughout Central Queens from being met.

Full text of Rep. Weiner’s letter below:

May 12, 2011

Ms. Beatrice Disman

Regional Commissioner

Social Security Administration

26 Federal Plaza

New York, New York 10278-0004

Dear Ms. Disman,

I have been contacted by many of my constituents regarding the Social Security Administration's plan to close its office at 67-10 Myrtle Avenue in Glendale, which is the closest Social Security office to residents of Glendale, Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village and Fresh Pond.

This office provides essential services to many members of these communities, including many of my retired and disabled constituents. Removing it would reduce access to Social Security for those who need it the most. My older neighbors rely on Social Security to be the impressive and successful program that it is, and accessibility to an office that provides information and help about their benefits is vital.

I urge you to keep the current office open or to find a new, easily-accessible location for an office in the area. If a new location is necessary, I would be happy to offer my assistance in finding one. Thank you in advance for your prompt attention and reply to this matter.

Sincerely,

ANTHONY D. WEINER

Member of Congress

On AIDS Walk Day, Weiner, Gottfried & Advocacy Groups Call on FDA

to Permit Sales of Over-the-Counter Rapid HIV Tests

Nearly 300,000 Infected Americans Unaware of Situation

Outside of Beth Israel Hospital on AIDS Walk Day, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D – Queens and Brooklyn), joined by Assembly Member Richard Gottfried (D – Manhattan), Chair of the Assembly Health Committee, and representatives from advocacy groups committed to advancing HIV/AIDS prevention, displayed an easy-to-use oral rapid HIV kit. Weiner and Gottfried called on the FDA to allow the kits to be sold over the counter to ease access to testing for the thousands of New Yorkers who are currently unaware they are infected.

Yesterday, on AIDS Walk Day, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D – Queens and Brooklyn), Assembly Member Richard Gottfried (D – Manhattan), Chair of the Assembly Health Committee, and representatives from advocacy groups committed to advancing HIV/AIDS prevention, including Tracy Welsh, Executive Director of HIV Law Project, and Peter Pavich, Executive Director of Queens Pride House, called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve the sale of over-the-counter rapid HIV tests, which would ease access to testing for the nearly 300,000 Americans and thousands of New Yorkers who currently are unaware they are infected.

Rapid HIV tests are both simple and effective. Using a mouth swab or a finger prick, individuals can know their preliminary HIV status within minutes – with greater than 99% sensitivity. Currently, there are four FDA-approved low complexity rapid HIV tests commercially available in the United States; however, they all require a laboratory license in order to purchase them.

Weiner is calling on the FDA to make rapid HIV tests available to everyday Americans by allowing both over-the-counter sales and free distribution of tests directly to individuals. Rapid HIV tests would provide Americans the ability to conduct tests in the comfort of their home and encourage testing by offering privacy and reducing perceived stigma.

Even on the 30^th anniversary of the AIDS epidemic, the need for increased HIV testing has never been greater. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that up to 1.2 million people in the U.S. currently have HIV, and nearly 1 in 4 do not know they are even infected. In fact, two-thirds of new HIV infections are caused by people who are unaware they are infected.

In New York City alone, more than 107,000 New Yorkers are living with HIV – and thousands more don't know they are infected. According to the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the AIDS case rate in the City is almost 3 times the national average, and HIV is the 3rd leading cause of death for New York City residents aged 35 to 54.

In a letter to FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg, Weiner said “Many medical professionals and HIV/AIDS groups support the approval of OTC rapid HIV tests, including the AIDS Institute, the Gay Men’s Health Crisis, and the National Minority AIDS Council. Given the critical need for increased HIV testing, it simply doesn’t make sense to keep OTC rapid HIV tests off the market.”

"It's vital for people who are HIV-positive to know their status as soon as possible, so they can begin treatment and avoid infecting others," said Assembly Health Committee chair Richard N. Gottfried.

While the Center for Disease Control claims that self-testing is not currently recommended because of counseling concerns, HIV/AIDS advocates and test manufacturers say that easy-to-read inserts in home test kits can educate users about HIV transmission, prevention, and the possibility of false positives and negatives. Additionally, a 24-hour 800 hotline can provide psychological and medical counseling to self-testers who receive HIV positive results.

Full text of Rep. Weiner’s letter below:

May 15, 2011

Dr. Margaret Hamburg

Commissioner

Food and Drug Administration

10903 New Hampshire Ave
Silver Spring, MD 20993-0002

Dear Dr. Hamburg,

I write to urge you to accelerate the approval process for over-the-counter (OTC) rapid HIV tests. There is a critical need to expand HIV testing in order to reduce the number of people who are unaware of their HIV status. Approving OTC rapid HIV tests would tear down unnecessary barriers that currently keep people from getting tested.

Rapid HIV tests are simple and effective. Using a mouth swab or a finger prick, individuals can know their preliminary HIV status within minutes. Currently, there are four FDA-approved low-complexity rapid HIV tests commercially available in the US. All are simple to use, show results in under 20 minutes, and have greater than 99.3% sensitivity. However, these tests can currently only be administered by a licensed organization or individual, creating an unfortunate roadblock to the goal of wider HIV testing. Even the sole FDA-approved “at home” HIV test requires individuals to wait several days before calling a laboratory to receive their results.

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), nearly two-thirds of new HIV infections may have been unknowingly caused by individuals who were unaware of their HIV status. The requirement that individuals must be tested by a licensed third party acts as a barrier to testing, even where anonymity is assured. Especially in smaller communities, anonymity does not necessarily ensure privacy. There is good reason to believe that some individuals who would otherwise test themselves for HIV avoid clinics and outreach centers because of the perceived stigma involved.

Studies have shown that individuals can both administer rapid HIV tests and interpret their results appropriately. Concerns about user education can be addressed by easy-to-read informational inserts in the test kits that inform about false negatives, false positives, and the need for confirmatory testing. Counseling concerns can be addressed by providing a 24-hour toll free hotline for psychological and medical referrals.

Many medical professionals and HIV/AIDS groups support the approval of OTC rapid HIV tests, including the AIDS Institute, the Gay Men’s Health Crisis, and the National Minority AIDS Council. Given the critical need for increased HIV testing, it simply doesn’t make sense to keep OTC rapid HIV tests off the market. I therefore urge you to accelerate the FDA’s approval process for OTC rapid HIV tests and set a firm deadline by which these tests will be available to the public.

Thank you for considering this critical issue.

Sincerely,

ANTHONY D. WEINER

Member of Congress

Weiner Addresses Roll Call of 112^th Precinct

On Monday at the NYPD’s 112^th Precinct in Queens, Rep. Anthony Weiner (D – Queens and Brooklyn) addressed officers during roll call, where he thanked them for their ongoing commitment to fighting crime and helping the community

Weiner, Nadler Introduce Legislation to Re-route Osama Bin Laden Reward Money to 9/11 First Responders, Families & Survivors

If Bounty Isn't Paid, Bin Laden Victims Should Get It

Outside of World Trade Center 7 on Sunday, Reps. Anthony Weiner (D – Queens and Brooklyn) and Jerrold Nadler (D – Manhattan and Queens), joined by family members of 9/11 victims, announced legislation to redirect the $50 million bounty for the capture of Osama bin Laden, which the White House declared will likely never be paid, to organizations that help 9/11 survivors, families and first responders.

On Sunday, Reps. Anthony Weiner (D – Queens and Brooklyn) and Jerrold Nadler (D – Manhattan and Brooklyn) announced legislation that would award the bounty of up to $50 million approved by Congress for the capture of Osama Bin Laden, which many news reports indicate may never be distributed, to be instead distributed amongst organizations that provide service or aid to 9/11 first responders, families and survivors.

The Rewards for Justice Program, established in 1984 and administered by the State Department, established a bounty of up to $25 million in 2001 to help bring Bin Laden to justice. In 2004, Congress passed legislation providing the Secretary of State up to $50 million to award at his or her discretion to those who provided information leading to the capture of Bin Laden.

Now, following his death, U.S. officials are unsure whether the bounty of up to $50 million will be paid because his whereabouts were pieced together from various bits of information, leaving no single person responsible for putting investigators on his trail.

Weiner and Nadler’s legislation would redirect the funds to organizations that assist first responders, families, and survivors who were affected by the tragedy at Ground Zero.

“If the bounty isn’t paid, Osama Bin Laden’s victims should get it,” Weiner said. “I can think of no better recipient than those organizations which have committed themselves to helping first responders, their families and survivors whose lives have been forever affected by Bin Laden’s actions.”

"Because there is likely no awardee for the $50 million bounty for Osama bin Laden’s capture, those funds should now be used in support of the thousands of 9/11 families, responders and survivors," said Nadler. "I urge the State Department to distribute the reward money to established organizations and institutions which provide services and programs to the 9/11 community."

102nd Officer Honored for Nabbing 4 Suspects by Stephen Geffon - Queens Chronicle -

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Community Council President Maria Thomson, Deputy Inspector Armando DeLeon and Officer Jeff Strauber at the precinct meeting last week. PHOTO BY STEPHEN GEFFON

Officer Jeff Strauber of the 102nd Precinct was honored with the Cop of the Month award at the community council meeting last Thursday for his arrest of four individuals who police say stole a cell phone from a young man.

Strauber was patrolling Jamaica Avenue near 130th Street in Richmond Hill on April 10 at 1:30 a.m. when he heard through the police radio transmission that four men had robbed a young man walking along the avenue.

Deputy Inspector Armando DeLeon, commanding officer of the 102nd Precinct, said the four individuals surrounded the victim and swiped his cell phone.

DeLeon said that Strauber canvassed the nearby area, where he spotted the suspects.

The commanding officer noted the thieves did not flee from Strauber when he approached them.

Strauber apprehended the alleged perpetrators, and no one was injured.

“That was great work by Officer Strauber,” said DeLeon.

Police said the suspects were all charged with armed robbery.

Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott Pulled Over by Cops, Now Cops Under Investigation By Yoav Gonen and Chuck Bennett - NYPOST.com

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It's not surprising to me that Walcott didn't hear the turn signal, he never heard NYC public school parents when they complained about Joel Klein and the NYC Public School system when he was Deputy Mayor...

Two cops assigned to an elite Queens anti-crime unit are facing an Internal Affairs probe for allegedly not properly identifying themselves after pulling over Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott in his city-issued vehicle, officials said yesterday.

Walcott, who is credited with creating the NYPD's "Courtesy, Professionalism, Respect" slogan in the early '90s, complained directly to Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, sparking the investigation, officials said.

Shortly before midnight Thursday, the two cops, a police officer and a sergeant, pulled over Walcott, who was not driving, a few blocks from his Cambria Heights home, for what sources described as having tinted windows and making a left turn without signaling.

"When Chancellor Walcott asked the officers to please tell him why they had been pulled over, the officer responded that they had failed to use a turn signal. Chancellor Walcott told the officers that this was incorrect as he heard the turn signal," confirmed his spokeswoman, Natalie Ravitz.

He also identified himself as the schools chancellor and former deputy mayor, Ravitz said.

"After the officer ran the license and plates, the officer returned the driver's license and said they were free to go. At this time Chancellor Walcott asked the officer for her badge number," Ravitz added. "The officers were in plainclothes and did not identify themselves."

Neither Walcott nor his driver was ticketed.

The two officers told Internal Affairs last night they did provide their shield numbers and accused Walcott of being difficult.

" 'You have no right to pull us over,' " Walcott allegedly barked according to the officer, sources said.

Prostitution Sting Op Upsets Neighborhood by Stephen Geffon - Queens Chronicle

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A 106th Precinct undercover prostitution sting operation in South Ozone Park has angered some residents who live on the block where it was conducted.

Police asked the Chronicle not to disclose the location of the block to protect the undercover operation.

Several of the block’s residents voiced their concerns about the sting at last week’s precinct meeting.

A spokesman for the group, who did not give his name, said the residents were worried because people who did not know about the police sting believed the block to be a hangout for prostitutes.

“It makes our block look bad,” he said. “There are no prostitutes, no johns, no drugs [here].”

Capt. Thomas Pascale, commanding officer of the 106th Precinct, said this is the first time he has received such a complaint, despite the fact that the precinct conducts many operations.

Precinct Community Affairs Officer Ken Zorn said after the meeting that police have received complaints from residents that prostitutes are using some motels in the community.

Zorn said that based on the public's complaints, police officers have conducted prostitution sting operations at different locations throughout the precinct.

Other stings include checking retail establishments for unlawful sales of cigarettes and alcohol to minors and checking on pawn shops, Zorn said.

Another resident expressed her concern about the homeless men residing at the Skyway shelter in South Ozone Park. Residents have been upset with the city’s recent decision to house single adult males at the shelter instead of families, as had been the case.

“When we observe the homeless men doing an illegal activity we will take police action,” Zorn said.

Police have increased their patrols in the area around Skyway, Zorn said. Also, additional police officers have been assigned in and around PS 124, located two blocks from the shelter. Plainclothes officers have been assigned to patrol the area, and a police officer has been assigned to patrol PS 124 at school dismissal time.

Trespass affidavits have been secured from the gas station near the shelter, allowing officers to arrest individuals if they are trespassing there.

Police said they will disseminate information about any sex offenders at the shelter to the community.

City Council Member Crowley Rallies With Unions to Protect Workers' Rights

 L/R: Tom Sullivan, President of the Lieutenants' Benevolent Association; Council Member Elizabeth Crowley (speaking at podium); Norman Seabrook, President of the Correction Officers Benevolent Association; Owen O'Hara, the Honorable Elizabeth Crowley's son; Harry Nespoli, President of the Sanitation Workers' Union; Sidney Schwartzbaum, President of the Assistant Deputy Wardens Association.

Remarks by Council Member Elizabeth S. Crowley

City Council Fire & Criminal Justice Services Committee, Chair

“Right now worker’s rights are under attack. The war on labors is not limited to Wisconsin or Ohio or Indiana, it is happening here in New York.

“Everyday we hear government officials threatening pensions and we can see these threats in proposals that cut our uniform services and our teachers. There are forces that are not trying to balance budgets—they are trying to break unions. This is not democracy—this is union busting.

“One of government’s most important responsibilities is to keep people safe. Our uniform services risk their lives to protect us and it’s up to us and the city to protect them. Our construction workers risk their lives and do dangerous jobs for our city’s benefit and we need to treat them like human beings—not like slaves.

“Our uniform services and laborers have a tough job and let’s face it: if we take pensions away, if we take away health care benefits, if we take away our bargaining rights, we will drive away qualified men and women to take on these dangerous and sometimes deadly jobs.

“This year, we remember the 10th anniversary of the attacks on September 11th in which 343 firefighters and 27 police officers died and more continue to die as a result of their heroism on that day. This tragedy should serve as a reminder of what the dangerous and sometimes deadly job our city workers face; and it should motivate us to speak out to protect the rights that so many people have died for.

“In solidarity – and only in solidarity – we will fight this war and we will win.”

Photos from 106th Precinct Community Council Meeting and Cop of the Month on April 13th...

At this month's 106 Precinct Community Council Meeting Commanding Officer Thomas Pascale introduced Lt. Christopher Charles, who is replacing retiring Lt. Joseph Salvato.

Click here to view these pictures larger

Lt. Salvato was awarded the Cop of the Month for April for his 22+ years of service to the NYPD, the last five being at the 106th, he had served five previous years at this Precinct as Police Officer.

News & Notes from NY Senator Joe Addabbo - 15th Senate District

SENATOR ADDABBO STATEMENT ON ACTING CHANCELLOR DENNIS WALCOTTAPPEARING BEFORE SENATE EDUCATION COMMITTEE

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach), a member of the Senate’s Education Committee, released the following statement:

The visit by Acting Chancellor Dennis Walcott to the NYS Senate Education Committee was both promising and encouraging for the Department of Education and the children in the school system. I stated at the meeting that I look forward to working with Mr. Walcott through the fiscal, policy and administrative challenges that face our public schools. I have known Mr. Walcott for over 15 years and have always found him to be professional and dedicated to public service.

SENATOR JOSEPH P. ADDABBO, JR. STATEMENT ON PIA’S ELIMINATION FROM AMERICAN IDOL

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) released the following statement on last week’s elimination of contestant and Howard Beach resident Pia Toscano from the popular TV show:

“Pia’s elimination from American Idol was shocking and premature. If I had the chance to give Pia a message, it would be to express my appreciation for her God-given talent, for exciting a community and for touching the hearts of millions of people around the country. I am so proud to have Pia within my district.”

ADDABBO: WE HAVE A LONG WAY TO GO IN SECURING AREAS TEN YEARS AFTER 9/11

Senate Revisits Public Protection Concerns

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens), who serves as ranking Minority member on the Senate’s Veterans, Homeland Security, & Military Affairs Committee, participated in this past Friday’s public hearing on Homeland Security 10 years later after September 11, 2001, to listen and respond to testimony on public protection since the terrorist attacks. Among the attending witnesses were Peter King, United States Congressman and Chairman of the Committee on Homeland Security; Michael O’Meara, Executive Vice President of the Metropolitan Transit Authority Police Benevolent Association; Richard Daddario, NYPD Assistant Deputy Commissioner for Counter-terrorism; and Douglas Zeigler, Director of Security for the Metropolitan Transit Authority.

While the hearing became increasingly contentious when the topic of religious sects were being discussed, the first half of the hearing included testimony from the NYPD, MTA, the Port Authority and other public safety personnel. “The critical issues were the lack of funding allocations for improved security measures and the need for upgrading the communication systems between our safety-related agencies,” stated Senator Addabbo. It was mentioned at the hearing that some of the radios and means of communicating among the agencies were over 20 years old. Addabbo said that he intends to discuss with the Port Authority the issue of security at JFK Airport and on the Airtrain.

Congressman King spoke at great length as to how terrorist threat levels are as high as 9/11, and reiterated that these are very real threats as we approach the tenth anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.

Michael O’Meara gave insight as to the issue of communication between the Metropolitan Transit Authority Police and the ongoing discussions with the MTA to correct and improve radio frequency communications between MTA Police and the MTA. The radio system, according to Mr. O’Meara, has not worked since its implementation some 20 years ago.

The use and placement of security cameras on New York State tunnels, bridges and pedestrian areas was explained by Douglas Ziegler. Currently, almost 4,000 cameras have been placed within the MTA system, with the intention of more to come.

A future similar Senate hearing concerning the status of security measures since the 9/11 tragedy is being scheduled in Albany.

Together with above release, here are two complementary statements from the Senator:

Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., released the following statement on NYS Senate Homeland Security Hearing held on Friday, 8, 2011:

It was my intent to participate in a focused hearing which was to examine the security of the New York City residents, and surrounding areas, ten years after the tragedy of 9/11. Based on the testimony of witnesses and my questioning of those witnesses, my main concern continues to be the governmental funding and interaction of the entities involved in maintaining the safety of individuals, namely the NYPD, FDNY, MTA and Port Authority. I intend, as the ranking member of the Senate Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs Committee, to continue my efforts in finding the means available to improve the safety and security of people locally and throughout the city and state.

Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., released the following statement on the witness list for the NYS Senate Homeland Security Hearing held on Friday, 8, 2011:

As I have previously stated, I intended to participate in a NYS Senate hearing focused on the public safety of individuals in New York City, ten years after the 9/11 tragedy. In my opinion, there should have been separate hearings with one having witnesses from governmental entities who would testify as to their plans to secure people and another, separate hearing with witnesses of all backgrounds giving testimony on their cultural and ideological theories toward their views on Americans. The global issue of terrorism as it pertains to our safety is so complex and intricate, that I believe separate Senate hearings were warranted.

ADDABBO: STATEMENT ON SAFETY OF AIRTRAIN & JFK AIRPORT

Generally, I have a daily concern for security in and around the JFK Airport property, including the Airtrain. The gateway to millions of visitors to New York is right in our backyard and therefore, my interest in the airport’s safety measures, which are a high priority for me. I intend to continue my working relationship with the all aspects of the Port Authority to ensure the safety of my constituents. In a recent conversation with the Port Authority regarding the inoperable radio usage near the Jet Blue Terminal, they advised me that the situation is being addressed and should be resolved shortly. I plan on having advanced discussions and meetings with the Port Authority about their vision for improved security at JFK.

SENATORS INTRODUCE CLEAN WATER LEGISLATIVE PACKAGE AND VOW TO KEEP NEW YORK’S WATER SAFE & CLEAN

As new information continues to surface on the dangers of horizontal hydraulic fracturing, particularly in relation to the wastewater produced during the hydro-fracking process, Senators Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan), Ranking Member of the Environmental Protection Committee Tony Avella (D-Queens) and Joseph Addabbo (D-Queens) have introduced a package of bills that aim to keep New York’s water clean against the effects of hydro-fracking. First and foremost, the package calls for a ban on hydro-fracking. While working towards this goal, the package installs a series of necessary, common sense measures that would implement stronger regulations and heightened scrutiny that will keep New Yorkers, and their water, safe.

A series of articles produced by the New York Times has revealed that studies conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency show that the wastewater produced in hydro-fracking is far more dangerous than previously reported. Even before it enters the ground, the frac fluid used in drilling poses serious threats to the environment and human health, as it is made of a combination of undisclosed chemicals that often contain carcinogenic materials. However, as reported by the New York Times, wastewater produced in hydro-fracking grows even more dangerous once it’s blasted through rock thousands of feet below ground. There, the frac fluid picks up salts and radioactive elements, like radium, that are naturally embedded in the Earth.

To address these issues, the first three bills in the Clean Water Package will implement tighter regulation and ensure transparency so the public can be assured that proper precautions are in place to monitor both frac fluid and the resulting wastewater. The bills providing for increased regulation are absolutely necessary to provide immediate and necessary oversight to keep the public and environment safe while ample political support is gathered to establish an all out ban, which has been proposed by Senator Avella. Senator Krueger’s bill (S.425) is currently on the agenda to be voted on in the Environmental Conservation Committee on Tuesday, the 12th.

The bills in the Clean Water Package are:

• S.425 (Krueger) - Would provide greater regulation of the use of hydraulic fracturing fluids used for oil and gas drilling, including prohibiting the use of frac fluids containing chemicals that pose a risk to human health.
• S.2697 (Avella) – Would provide for comprehensive regulation of oil and natural gas operations.
• S. 4251 (Addabbo) – Would require treatment works to test waste from hydraulic fracturing operations for radioactivity.
• S.4220 (Avella) – Would prohibit the use of hydraulic fracturing in the process of drilling for natural gas and/or oil.

Senator Liz Krueger said, “I don’t see it as that great of a request to require these gas companies to inform the public on what chemicals they’re blasting into the Earth. They want us to just fall into line and not ask any questions, to just ‘trust them.’ Well, we saw what they did with Pennsylvania’s trust, and I say no. Not here, not in New York. I tend to believe that if you guard a secret with your life it’s not because you’re hiding something good or harmless, it’s because you know that whatever you’re hiding will bring negative consequences for you if it comes to light.”

Senator Avella added, “Perhaps our greatest resource as New York City residents is the clean, unfiltered and refreshing water we receive every time we turn on our faucets. It is clear to me, that until we can be assured that the practice of hydro-fracking presents absolutely no threat to New York’s residents and their drinking water, we must completely ban fracking.”

Senator Addabbo said, “Today, I join my Senate colleagues, Tony Avella and Liz Krueger, to support their respective bills, which together with mine, would amend the environmental conservation law, requiring new regulations from the DEC. My new bill authorizes the DEC Commissioner, after hosting a public hearing, to force regulations requiring treatment facilities handling wastewater to test for radioactivity levels. The DEC will identify tests to be performed on the water, including ingredients found within the hydro-fracking fluids, and would prohibit the acceptance, treatment or discharge of hydro-fracking-produced waste. This was in response to EPA and drilling industry studies that concluded radioactivity in drilling waste cannot be fully diluted in rivers and other waterways.”

There are many ways this wastewater puts human health and the environment in danger. In other states, wastewater is often stored in open pits until transported for ultimate disposal, but chemicals evaporate from these open pits, contributing to air pollution. Even prior to fracking, the trucks are carrying the fluids in high concentrations, and are subject to leaks and spills, causing contamination of surface waters. The fracturing fluid left underground can migrate or seep through fractures in underground formations, cracks in well-bore casings or through abandoned wells, polluting groundwater.

As has been made clear by a number of incidents related to natural gas drilling in Pennsylvania and elsewhere, high-volume hydro-fracking continues to present unacceptable risks.

ADDABBO: GOVERNOR SIGNS BILL INTO LAW EXTENDING UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE BENEFITS THROUGH 2011

Extended Benefits Will Provide Relief for 166,000 New Yorkers

NYS Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Queens), a member of the Senate’s Labor Committee who supported the measure, is pleased to report to his constituents that Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law a measure that extends federally funded unemployment insurance benefits throughout 2011. This bill, S.3928, amends the Labor Law to allow New York to take advantage of provisions contained in the recently enacted Federal Tax Relief, Unemployment Insurance Reauthorization and Job Creation Act of 2010 by modifying provisions concerning unemployment insurance extended benefits.

The extension would have expired early this spring, giving people who lose their jobs up to 80 weeks of unemployment checks instead of up to 93, for people now on the unemployment rolls, said the Senator. Without this new law, the state would not be able to continue to pay a total of 93 weeks of benefits and would have forfeited $620 million in federal payments to the unemployed, negatively impacting approximately 166,000 New Yorkers.

Since 2009, New York State has participated in a two-year, federally funded unemployment insurance program. In December 2010, the U.S. Congress extended the federal program by an additional year. The governor’s legislation amends New York State law to allow the state to qualify for the additional third year of the program.

Under the program, benefits for all private sector and nonprofit employees are fully federally funded. This act is effective immediately and “shall be deemed to have been in full force and effect on and after February 1, 2011.”

Added Addabbo, “The unemployment rate in Queens is about 8.5 percent; it’s between 8.9-9.2 percent for New York City, and 8.7 percent for our state overall. While some reports have noted that the worst of the long recession has ended, many of my people have been seeking jobs for the past year, and for some, almost two years. The governor requested quick legislative action, which has allowed us to access federal funds to assist those on unemployment. This law will give them a safety net as they continue to pursue time-consuming and daunting efforts to re-enter the workforce.” The senator is hopeful that future extensions of unemployment benefits would be unnecessary due to an improving economy and new jobs in the city. “The main goal is to find people stable employment,” Addabbo concluded.