News

DOT, NYPD celebrate Queens Blvd. bike lane

webadmin on August 10, 2021

Representatives from the Department of Transportation (DOT), NYPD, and local government officials gathered Thursday at the intersection of Yellowstone Avenue and Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills to celebrate the installation of a new protected bike lane.
The infrastructure project is part of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s ongoing Vision Zero program, which aims to eliminate all traffic fatalities for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Known locally as the Boulevard of Death, Queens Boulevard has a storied reputation for fatal traffic accidents. The new bike lane is separated from traffic by plastic pylons. Work is ongoing.
In addition to the bike lane, the Queens Boulevard redesign is adding new loading zones and parking spaces along nearby Ascan Avenue and Austin Street in the hopes of easing congestion on the arterial boulevard.
“By combining strong, targeted enforcement with the kind of bold engineering changes that have led to a dramatic drop in fatalities and injuries on Queens Boulevard, we’re protecting cyclists and promoting the sustainable mobility that’s an essential part of New York City’s recovery,” explained Kim Wiley-Schwartz, assistant commissioner of Education and Outreach at DOT.
Thursday’s event in Forest hills also coincided with the beginning of a month-long free helmet giveaway sponsored by DOT. Free helmet fittings will be available during select times at parks throughout the city, includingThomas Green Park in North Brooklyn.
In New York State, helmets are required for all cyclists under the age of 14.
The Forest Hills event also turned its attention to the question of traffic law enforcement, particularly as it pertains to electric scooters. The proliferation of e-bikes and electric scooters has been an issue throughout the city with scooters, many of which are unlicensed, travelling at speeds over 40 miles per hour in bike lanes.
Electric scooters are not permitted in bike lanes, and unlicensed scooters are illegal to operate anywhere in the city.
NYPD officials at the event detailed strategies to combat these issues, including the implementation of more traffic enforcement agents and traffic safety personnel throughout the city.
Additionally, DOT and NYPD are working together to circulate literature that enumerate the differences between bikes and electric scooters.
“Ensuring the safety of cyclists within New York City is at the foundation of the NYPD’s Vision Zero program”, said Chief of Transportation Kim Royster. “As the city continues to reopen, the NYPD will be continuing our bicycle safety citywide initiative aimed at protecting cyclists and pedestrians.
“Education and enforcement action will continue to be aimed at drivers that make the choice to block lanes and fail to yield to our most vulnerable road users,” Royster added.
So far, there have been fewer bike fatalities year to date in 2021 compared to 2020, with ten and 18 fatalities respectively. With the mayor’s office pursuing the goal of 30 miles of new bike lanes citywide by the end of the year, Vision Zero advocates are hopeful that those statistics will continue to decrease.
However, concerns remain regarding how the installation of bike lanes, particularly protected bikes lanes that occupy a full lane of traffic, will affect car traffic, buses, loading zones, and parking.
In Forest Hills, residents have raised concerns about the additional burden the Queens Boulevard renovation project will place on already busy nearby streets.

Guest rooms joins gaming rooms at RWNYC

webadmin on August 10, 2021

Resorts World New York City (RWNYC) has officially opened the Hyatt Regency JFK, a new 400-room hotel located next to the casino.
The eight-story hotel features restaurants, fitness center, and conference space next to Aqueduct Racetrack.
Dave Fuego, a spokesperson from Resorts World and the emcee of Friday’s event, spoke about the casino’s long road to opening during the pandemic.
“In just over a year, we were able to transform this lot into what you see before you today,” said Dave Fuego of RWNYC at a ribbon-cutting ceremony last Friday. “New York is not coming back, New York is back.”
Genting American East president Bob DeSalvio, who oversees operation in Queens and as well as a casino in the Catskills, highlighted the 10th anniversary of RWNYC and the recent opening of a new casino in Las Vegas earlier this ummer.
“There is no better way to celebrate Resorts World’s 10th anniversary than with the opening of this world-class hotel,” he said. “While the hotel has always been part of our vision, today’s ribbon cutting takes on additional significance as we celebrate the Queens community and do our part to move New York forward.”
Borough President Donovan Richards said the new jobs – the hotel is expected to create over 1,000 of them – and other opportunities will help the Queens economy recover from the pandemic.
“Queens is back in business,” Richards said, “and what better way to bounce back from the pandemic than bringing new jobs. We are not just looking to get back to normal, but to something better than normal.
“We are not just talking about jobs, we are talking about good jobs that offer people upwards mobility,” he added. “Manhattan is a thing of the past, come spend your money in Queens.”
State Seantor Joseph Addabbo, who chairs the Senate Committee on Racing, Gaming, and Wagering, guaranteed that Resorts World will get a full gaming license from the state to loud applause.
“Resorts World is not just a symbol, they are in the weeds of the community,” Addabbo said. “They are at the street festivals and all the local parades.”

Climate-themed music-and-art installation in Bushwick

webadmin on August 10, 2021

Undercurrent, a new show that combines art and music, will open its doors at 455 Jefferson Street in Bushwick on September 9.
Thematically focused on the climate crisis, the show will feature immersive experiences created by a lengthy list of talented musicians, including Bon Iver, Grimes, The 1975, Jojra Smith, and more.
Steve Milton discusses Undercurrent’s origins, message, and desired impact in Brooklyn and beyond.
“Undercurrent began as a passion project,” Milton said during a virtual interview. “We were thinking of this as a new type of music and art event in which we were collaborating with musicians, artists, and technologists to do something that’s a little bit more non-traditional.
“It’s a new way for fans to experience the work and a new way for artists to share their creativity,” he added.
Milton and co-creator Brett Volker have worked in the intersection between art and technology for many years now. The two previously worked together at innovation and design agency ADA and sound design agency Listen., experiences that allowed the pair to collaborate with notable artists such as Childish Gambino, Briano Eno, and Saint Vincent.
Milton and Volker are bringing their industry knowledge – and their extensive contacts – to Undercurrent. The duo have long dreamed about a project that combines music and technology on such a massive scale, and knew that such a project would need to focus on an important central theme.
They quickly settled on the climate crisis.
“When we started thinking about Undercurrent, we wanted to use this new experience to focus on something that we’re passionate about or that we care about and that means something to us,” Milton explained. “We landed on the idea of the climate because it is a huge existential threat and, admittedly, something that is really hard to wrap your head around.”
All of the installations featured in Undercurrent will focus on the climate in some way, be it abstract or literal. Milton and Volker are hopeful that the work of talented artists will mesh with the innovative format, giving people insight and possibly even hope to help them confront the impossibly large challenge that climate change presents.
“Sometimes it can get to the point where it seems like there is nothing you can do about it,” Milton said. “The answer, we think, is working with artists to inspire action and to open people’s minds to new ways of thinking about both the problems and the solutions.”
In addition to the list of artists contributing to Undercurrent, Milton and Volker have partnered with multiple nonprofit organizations that will have a presence throughout the show’s run. These include The Ocean Conservancy, Kiss the Ground, and the Global Forest Generation.
Undercurrent is focused on the global scale of the climate crisis, but its creators are also optimistic that the event will help to confront climate challenges within Brooklyn specifically, a borough that much of the Undercurrent team lives in.
“It’s our hope that we’re going to bring thousands of people through this thing,” Milton said, “and they’re going to all walk away empowered with the tools from each of these nonprofits to go and make a difference, hopefully directly within their own neighborhood and within their own community.
“That would be a wonderful outcome if we can make some progress on the local front,” he added. “And we expect to because a lot of people who live in Brooklyn and love the area are coming to this.”
Undercurrent will open on Thursday, September 9, and will occupy a 60,000-square-foot space in the heart of Bushwick. While there is still work to be done before the show’s opening, Milton is excited to see people’s reaction to the innovative and immersive experience.
“I think people will be inspired to think and to be creative,” Milton said. “When people see all of the artists and the great work that they’ve done, they will be inspired to make a difference when it comes to the climate, instead of feeling like they are unable to do anything.”

Adams launches general election campaign

webadmin on August 10, 2021

After a long and arduous campaign for the Democratic nomination, Borough President Eric Adams officially launched his general election campaign for mayor.
Standing in front of Brooklyn Borough Hall and flanked by allies, Adams spoke optimistically about the city’s expansive and diverse Democratic party.
“I am honored and humbled to receive the support of so many leaders from every corner of the city,” Adams said at the campaign kickoff event last week. “This is an incredible show of unity. We may not all agree on everything, but there is one thing all of us can support: this city must be led by a Democrat who will put working people and struggling New Yorkers first.”
A slew of Democratic elected officials announced their endorsement of the mayoral hopeful, including both of New York’s Senators, Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Kristen Gillibrand.
“I am proud to endorse my fellow Brooklynite to be the next mayor of the Big Apple,” Schumer said. “Borough President Adams brings decades of substantial professional bona fides and a unique lived experience to the job.”
Adams’ bid in the general election comes on the heels of a hotly contested Democratic primary. Running in a crowded field, Adams won with 50.4 percent of vote in the first citywide test of ranked choice voting, which allowed voters to cast their ballot for multiple candidates.
Despite the hectic weeks following the primary, a number of Adams’ former rivals have now come out in support of the Democratic nominee.
“This is a critical time for New York City and we need to prioritize recovery from the pandemic for all New Yorkers, address longstanding inequalities and build a New York City that is stronger than ever for our future,” Kathryn Garcia said. “Eric Adams has dedicated his career to serving New Yorkers and democratic leadership at City Hall is pivotal in this moment to move our city forward.”
Adams will face off against the Republican nominee and founder of the Guardian Angels, Curtis Sliwa. Adams is considered to be a favorite in the race by a large margin. Registered democrats outnumber Republicans in New York City 7 to 1, giving the Democratic nominee a huge advantage.

Alternative to the little blue pills

webadmin on August 10, 2021

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common problem with a stigma. In fact, I have had several patients who resisted telling me they suffered from this malady. Because it can be a symptom of other diseases, it is crucial that you share this information with your doctor.
ED affects approximately 1 in 10 men on a chronic basis. If it occurs less than 20 percent of the time, it is normal; whereas if it occurs more than 50 percent of the time, there is a problem that requires therapy, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
There are oral medications for ED. Its prevalence has led pharmaceutical companies to saturate the airwaves. Approved medications include Viagra (sildenafil, or the “little blue pill”), Cialis (tadalafil) and Levitra (vardenafil).
These drugs work by affecting the endothelium, or inner layer, of blood vessels and causing vasodilation, or enlargement, which increases blood flow to the penis.
Unfortunately, this does not solve the medical problem, but it does provide a short-term fix.
ED’s prevalence increases with age. In a multinational MALES study, ED affected 8 percent of those aged 20 to 30 and 37 percent of 70 to 75 year olds. What was surprising was that advanced age had the least association with ED, increasing the odds by only 5 percent.
So, what contributes to the rest of the increase as we age? Disease processes and drug therapies.

Disease processes
Chronic diseases significantly contribute to ED – and ED may be a harbinger of disease. Typical contributors include metabolic syndrome, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and obesity.
In the Look AHEAD trial, ED had a greater than two-fold association with hypertension and a three-fold association with metabolic syndrome. In another study, ED was associated with a 2.5-times increase in cardiovascular disease.
In a randomized clinical trial (RCT), patients with ED had significantly more calcification, or atherosclerosis, in the arteries when compared to a control group. They were more than three times as likely to have severe levels of calcification. They also had more inflammation, measured by C-reactive protein.

Medications contribute
About 25 percent of ED cases are thought to be associated with medications, such as antidepressants; NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium; and hypertension medications.
Unfortunately, the most common antidepressant medications, SSRIs, have the greatest impact on ED of all antidepressants.
The California Men’s Health Study, with over 80,000 participants, showed that there was an association between NSAIDs and ED, with a 38 percent increase in ED in patients who use NSAIDs on a regular basis.
The authors warn that patients should not stop taking NSAIDS without consulting their physicians.
Also, high blood pressure drugs have a reputation for causing ED. A meta-analysis of 42 studies showed that beta blockers have a small effect, but thiazide diuretics (water pills) more than doubled ED, compared to placebo.

Prevention & Treatment
The Mediterranean-type diet has been shown to treat and prevent ED, thus improving one’s health and sex life at the same time. It is the green leafy alternative to the little blue pill.
The foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high in monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, as well as in fiber. Components include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, walnuts, and olive oil.
In two RCTs lasting two years, those who followed a Mediterranean-type diet saw improvements in their endothelial functioning. They also had reduced inflammation and decreased insulin resistance.
In another study, men who had the greatest compliance with the Mediterranean-type diet were significantly less likely to have ED, compared to those with the lowest compliance. Even more impressive was that the group with the highest compliance had a 37 percent reduction in severe ED versus the low compliance group.
Therefore, it is important to bring ED to the attention of physicians. There are very effective lifestyle alternatives to oral medication that provide positive overall health effects, while also helping patients eliminate medications that contribute to ED.

104th Precinct Police Blotter (7/26/2021-8/1/2021)

webadmin on August 10, 2021

Monday, July 26
Hany Imbark was arrested at 507 Grandview Avenue for felony assault by Officer LeBlanc.
Nelson Musse was arrested at 490 Grandview Avenue for felony assault by Officer LeBlanc.
German C. Cortes was arrested at 682 Seneca Avenue for criminal mischief by Officer Claybrooks.

Tuesday, July 27
Bengaly Torres was arrested at 1107 Irving Avenue for misdemeanor assault by Officer Gluck.
Sandy Gonzalez was arrested at 1105 Irving Avenue for misdemeanor assault by Officer Gluck.
Eric Lopez was arrested at 60-51 Cooper Avenue for criminal mischief by Officer Incantalupo.
Yousef Alzubidy was arrested at 576 Seneca Avenue for felony assault by Officer Heinlein.

Wednesday, July 28
Donald K. Cowens was arrested at 78-16 Cooper Avenue for misdemeanor assault by Officer Khela.
Jason Hurado was arrested at 64-02 Catalpa Avenue for aggravated harassment by Detective Lodato.
Rodney Ballard was arrested at Cooper Avenue and 73rd Street for petit larceny by Officer Gonzalez.
Ixcotoyac Gerson was arrested at 70-20 Central Avenue for menacing by Officer Cavagna.
Eric Lopez was arrested at 60-51 Cooper Avenue for criminal contempt by Officer Simone.

Thursday, July 29
Bobby Tillman was arrested at Cornelia Street and Wyckoff Avenue for altering vehicle ID number by Officer Duran.
Anthony King was arrested at 61-15 Metropolitan Avenue for petit larceny by Officer Babayev.
Christopher Gutierrez was arrested at 6st Street and Fresh Pond Road for robbery by Detective Wright.
Karlo Popovic was arrested at Fairview Avenue and Palmetto Street for criminal mischief by Officer Pellot.

Friday, July 30
Sunshine Perdomo was arrested at 60-20 60th Drive for strangulation by Officer Dale.

Saturday, July 31
Selena Maysonave was arrested at 2024 Greene Avenue for menacing by Officer Prizeman.
Gilberto Paz was arrested at Grand AVenue and 47th Street for reckless endangerment by Officer Petito.

Sunday, Aug. 1
Jonathan Perez-Reyes was arrested at 358 Onderdonk Avenue for burglary by Officer martinez.
Danielle Lindemann was arrested at 76-02 Woodhaven Boulevard for menacing by Officer Baltusis.
Nelson Lozada was arrested at 60-91 71st Avenue for criminal contempt by Officer Rosalez.
Nelson Lozada Sr. was arrested at 60-91 71st Avenue for criminal contempt by Officer Rosalez.
Emily Gallant was arrested at Willoughby Avenue and Seneca Avenue for unauthorized use of vehicle without consent by Officer McMahon.
Efrain Montes was arrested at Willoughby Avenue and Seneca Avenue for unauthorized use of vehicle without consent by Officer McMahon.

Mildred Cello

webadmin on August 9, 2021

Mildred Cello passed away on Friday, July 30, 2021 at the age of 85. Beloved Sister of the late Emily Cello. Dear Cousin and Friend. Mass of Christian Burial offered at St. Stanislaus Church on Saturday August 7, 2021 9:30 AM. Interment followed at Calvary Cemetery, Woodside, NY under the direction of Papavero Funeral Home, 72-27 Grand Avenue, Maspeth NY 11378.

Carlos Belio

webadmin on August 9, 2021

Carlos Belio passed away on Friday, August 6, 2021 at the age of 91. Beloved Husband of Herlinda Belio. Loving Father of Carlos E. Belio. Dear Brother of Elda Orfila, Julian Belio and the late Matilde, Luisa and Mariano. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Funeral Services held at Papavero Funeral Home on Monday, August 9, 2021 from 9AM – 12PM. Interment followed at St. Raymond Cemetery, Bronix, NY under the direction of Papavero Funeral Home, 72-27 Grand Avenue, Maspeth NY 11378.

Marjorie Conroy

webadmin on August 9, 2021

Marjorie Conroy passed away on Thursday, August 5, 2021 at the age of 90. Beloved Wife of the late John J. Conroy. Loving Mother of Roxann (Brian) Berger and John (Kasem) Conroy. Cherished Grandmother of Jeannie and her “grand-dog” Skipper and “grand-cat” Rambo. Dear Sister of Fran (David) Steiner, George “Buddy” (Barbara) Schultz and the late Al (Betty) Schultz. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian Burial offered at St. Adalbert’s Church on Tuesday August 10, 2021 10:00 AM. Interment followed at St. John Cemetery, Middle Village, NY under the direction of Papavero Funeral Home, 72-27 Grand Avenue, Maspeth NY 11378.

Rosaleen Byrne

webadmin on August 9, 2021

Rosaleen Byrne passed away on Friday, July 30, 2021 at the age of 91. Originally from Monahan, Ireland. Beloved Wife of Joseph Byrne. Loving Mother of Eileen Richards (Jeff) and Sheila Brennan (Tom). Cherished Grandmother of Rose, Nora, Mary Claire and Kathleen. Mass of Christian Burial offered at St. Mary’s Church on Tuesday August 10, 2021 11:00 AM. Interment followed at Calvary Cemetery, Woodside, NY under the direction of Papavero Funeral Home, 7227 Grand Avenue, Maspeth NY 11378.

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