Wednesday, August 12, 2020

DiNAPOLI: LOCAL SALES TAX COLLECTIONS DROP 8.2 PERCENT IN JULY

 

  Sales tax revenue for local governments in July fell 8.2 percent compared to the same period last year, according to New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. Collections for counties and cities in July totaled $1.3 billion, or $116 million less than in July 2019. Although revenue is still down compared to July 2019, the decline is less steep than any month since March, when the COVID-19 pandemic began to affect sales tax collections.

Nearly every county in every region of the state saw overall July collections drop year over year: only four counties had increases, including Westchester, where its tax rate increase in August of 2019 boosted year-over-year growth. County decreases ranged from 2.1 percent in Essex to 19.7 percent in Schuyler. New York City experienced a 7.3 percent decline, amounting to a $44.6 million reduction in revenues. While less dramatic than the 46 percent ($375 million) decrease seen in June, this represents another month where the city’s sales tax revenue dropped significantly over the same month in the prior year.

“New York’s local governments continue to see a significant downturn in sales tax collections, a major source of revenue. This is going to have a long-lasting effect on revenues for counties, cities and many towns and villages around the state,” DiNapoli said. “The federal government needs to step up and provide financial help to those hit hard by this virus. Without action, communities may need to make severe cuts to critical services.”

Last month, DiNapoli reported that local sales tax collections dropped 27.1 percent in the April-June quarter, down $1.2 billion from collections in the same quarter of 2019.

Over the five-month period of the pandemic’s effects (starting in March, when only New York City showed losses, and continuing through July), local governments have received $1.4 billion

(18.7 percent) less than they did during the same period in 2019.

 Graphic1

Find out how your government money is spent at Open Book New York. Track municipal spending, the state's 170,000 contracts, billions in state payments and public authority data. Visit the Reading Room for contract FOIL requests, bid protest decisions and commonly requested data.Table: Monthly Local Sales Tax Collections by Region


MAYOR DE BLASIO, CHANCELLOR CARRANZA TOUR VILLAGE ACADEMY IN QUEENS


  Mayor Bill de Blasio: Well, everybody I'm really encouraged by what I see here at Village Academy. So, we're out in Far Rockaway. We are at a school that really speaks to me because this is a school created by an educator who wanted to do something different, wanted to do something better for the kids in this community. This is a community that's had its share of troubles and challenges over the years. But what Doris Lee has done is create a school that really responds to the needs of the community and uplifts the kids and Doris, I really want to thank you. It takes a lot to be an educator. It takes even more to create a school, to found a school and then make it something great. So, really want to thank you for all you have achieved, and then on top of that, when the Chancellor and I talked to Doris about what it's going to take to get ready – look, we have a month to go now till school begins, and I said, Doris, how's it looking? What are you doing? And she said, we've got a lot of educators who care about kids. They want to be there for the kids. We're going to make this work. It's going to take creativity and flexibility of course, we're dealing with a lot of things we’ve never dealt with before, but what I heard loud and clear in this leader's voice is we're going to make it work for the kids and we're going to make it safe and healthy for the kids, and that is the spirit you see here in this school.

 

So, as the Chancellor and I walked around, you see a lot of things that are different. You see the hallways are marked, so you go one way on one side, the other way. On the other side, you saw the spacing of the desk. I've never seen a classroom was so few kids who will be in it. I mean, think about it. We saw classrooms that are going to have no more than 10 kids in them. So, you're going to have the distancing. We saw the electrostatic cleaning. This is a game changer. The custodian told us that he can clean that room in two minutes or less and make it, every day, safe for kids. I mean, these are the powerful tools, and of course everyone with a face covering, the fact that kids are going to be eating at their desks. They're not going to the cafeteria for lunch. They're going to be eating at their desks. There's a lot of things here that are being done and they're common sense plans that are going to keep our kids safe.

 

So, I'm just really impressed that it's a whole month until school begins, and this much is already ready here at the Village Academy, and this is happening all over the school system. Principals, administrators, teachers, they're all working hard right now because they're entirely devoted to their kids. That's what I've learned over the years as a public school parent myself, and here's what I want to finish with before I turn the Chancellor. What is the alternative? The alternative is to deprive our kids the very best education available because I haven't met an educator that believes you can do the same things with remote learning that you can do in person. Even if you only do it a few days a week, the amount of education you can provide a kid, the amount of support and tutoring, the amount of mentoring, the amount of attention you can provide to their health, including their mental health needs in person is a measurably more than you can do remotely. We owe it to our kids to get this right. So, we're moving forward with that spirit of devotion to our children, and now turning to the man who has stuck with it every step of the way and is inspiring a team to move forward and get this right, our Chancellor Richard Carranza.

 

Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza: Thank you, Mr. Mayor. I just want to start off by absolutely adding to what you said about this incredible principal, Dr. Doris Lee, what an amazing job you're doing here. So, thank you. Thanks for taking us on a tour. I know that the students here at the Village Academy will be in very good hands when school starts in September, and the other thing I wanted to say is for a whole group of individuals that don't always get the recognition they deserve. I want to give a huge shout out to our custodial engineers, right here at this campus. What we saw here today is a lot of hard work, a lot of thoughtfulness and a real dedication to make sure that this site is safe for children and those that serve the children. So, the custodial engineers, I just want to say thank you for your hard work, and it sure feels good to be back in a school. During normal times, I'm usually out at schools at least twice, three times a week, and what I saw today is one of the things that I know is absolutely true. The people that know their schools the best are our principals, and what Doris and her team are doing here is possible because of the circumstances that they have in the configuration of their building and what the families want and how students will be in their buildings. That's what we've tried to do to, give guidance but then give the flexibility for principals who know their school sites best to actually implement all of those best practices. So, what do we see? Every classroom will have a hand sanitizer and a disinfectant available, face coverings are going to be required, and those who don't have a face covering, we will provide one for them. Social distancing, which the Mayor spoke of. We saw it in two different configurations in two different classes, but it's mandated, and as we saw rooms will be configured in different ways to accommodate for this using tape and markings and making sure that it's very clear where people are to go and not to go. Students will have individual spaces. So, there's no possibility of overlap between students, and we saw a demonstration of the electrostatic cleaner actually in use today. It was pretty amazing, right, sir. I think the Mayor and I geeked out a little bit on that because it's a neat new tool. But as the Mayor said in under two minutes, you can sanitize completely disinfect and sanitize a classroom, which should be a real sign of comfort to our parents wondering how are you going to do this every single night.

 

We're also here to thank our educators and school leaders for the tremendous work that they're doing in a school year that is unlike any that we have ever, ever faced before. Now, speaking to families, I want to be very clear to our families. This fall will be unlike any other fall we've ever experienced where students run into school and they hug each other and they're jumping over each other and they congregate in the cafeteria and they're hugging on the way to classes in the hallways – that will not happen this year. It will be very different. So, for parents, what can you do to help us as true partners? Start having those conversations with your children, start talking to your children about why it's important – it may be inconvenient, but why it's important that you wear your face covering all at all times. Why it's important that you maintain distance between you and your super best friend. It doesn't mean they're not your best friend. It just means you're keeping the distance to help them stay safe and help you stay safe. Why it's important that you follow the directional signs on hallway floors, all of those things that will be different. We should start talking to our children now, before they ever get to school, because it's important for students to understand that this fall will also be very different than anything that they've experienced and undergirding all of that is that we will continue have the strictest regimen for cleaning and for making sure that as we keep the virus in terms of community spread suppressed, it's only going to be possible by all of us continuing to do our part, and that includes our students, our parents, and our educators in all of the safety protocols that we have in place. So with that, I just, again, want to thank our principal, Dr. Lee for the tour. Mr. Mayor, thank you for coming out and seeing this firsthand and I'll turn it back over the Mayor.

  

MAYOR DE BLASIO EXPANDS HYPER-LOCAL TESTING RESPONSE IN SUNSET PARK, BROOKLYN TO SPIKE IN COVID-19

 

Effort will combine testing and comprehensive outreach to reach all 38,000 residents of Sunset Park through Friday, August 21st


  Mayor de Blasio today announced that the City will activate the next stage of its hyper-local COVID-19 response in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. As the area continues to see low testing rates and higher rates of positivity, the City will deploy additional testing and outreach resources to ensure residents can immediately safely separate and receive assistance through supportive services, such as food and financial counseling

 

"A warning sign is blinking, and we are flooding the zone in Sunset Park to reach as many people as we can,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. "We know that testing and tracing is the key to reopening our city safely, which is why we are doing everything we can to connect people with the resources they need to protect themselves and their loved ones.”

 

With the goal of reaching 38,000 residents of Sunset Park, the City will launch an extensive outreach campaign using door knocking and robocalls. By the end of the week, all residents will receive a live call from the Test & Trace Corps urging residents to get tested and directions on how to access other COVID-19 supportive resources.

 

The City will also deploy additional mobile testing units in two locations: 44th & 6th Avenue and Brooklyn Herald Gospel Center (CORE Site) on 44th Street. Sites can be accessed without an appointment. 

 

Corner of 44th Street and 6th Avenue

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Wednesday, August 12th - Friday, August 14th 

 

Brooklyn Herald Gospel Center (CORE Site)

809 44th Street

10:00 AM- 4:00 PM

Saturday, August 15th- Sunday, August 16th

 

Beginning today, Expanded Urgicare Testing with AdvantageCare Physicians will be available at 740 64th Street. Appointments are available by calling (866) 749-2660. Rapid point of care testing at the Brooklyn Army Terminal will launch Monday, August 17th

 

Test & Trace Corps is the City's comprehensive effort to test, trace, and treat every case of COVID-19. Through a partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Test & Trace Corps allows the City to immediately isolate and care for those who test positive for the virus and then rapidly track, assess, and quarantine anyone they may have infected.

 

Additional information on the Test & Trace Corps, including program metrics, is available here.


Manhattan Man Sentenced To 15 Years In Prison For Attempting To Provide Material Support To Terrorist Organization

 

Jesus Wilfredo Encarnacion Attempted to Travel Overseas to Join Lashkar e-Tayyiba

  Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and John C. Demers, the Assistant Attorney General for National Security, announced today that JESUS WILFREDO ENCARNACION, a/k/a “Jihadistsoldgier,” “Jihadinhear,” “Jihadinheart,” “Lionofthegood,” was sentenced to 15 years in prison for attempting to provide material support to Lashkar e-Tayyiba (“LeT”), a Pakistan-based designated foreign terrorist organization responsible for multiple high-profile attacks, including the infamous Mumbai attacks in November 2008.  ENCARNACION pled guilty on January 22, 2020, before U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams, who also imposed today’s sentence.

Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “Jesus Encarnacion plotted to travel abroad, to join and train with Lashkar e-Tayyiba, infamous worldwide for the jihadist murder of innocent civilians, and to carry out shootings, bombings, and beheadings on behalf of that terrorist organization.  Thanks to the FBI, the NYPD, and the Joint Terrorism Task Force, Encarnacion has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term for his crime.”

Assistant Attorney General John C. Demers said:  “Unfortunately, individuals continue to attempt to travel to foreign countries to support terrorist organizations.  Encarnacion’s sentence reflects the seriousness with which the justice system takes these efforts.  The National Security Division remains committed to identifying and holding accountable those who seek to join and support designated foreign terrorist organizations.”

According to the criminal Complaint, Indictment, other court filings, and statements during court proceedings:

In November 2018, ENCARNACION expressed his desire to join a terrorist group in an online group chat, where he met another individual (“CC-1”).  CC-1 introduced ENCARNACION to an individual who, unbeknownst to CC-1 or ENCARNACION, was in fact an undercover FBI employee (“UC-1”).  ENCARNACION repeatedly expressed, in the course of recorded communications through a social media service with CC-1 and through an encrypted messaging service with UC-1, his allegiance to and support for LeT, which, since approximately 2001, has been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by both the United States Secretary of State and the Immigration and Nationality Act. 

Over several months, ENCARNACION discussed his desire and plans to join LeT overseas so that he could receive training and participate in violent acts of terrorism.  For example, ENCARNACION told UC-1 that he was “ready to kill and die in the name of Allah” and sought UC-1’s assistance to help ENCARNACION travel abroad to serve as an “executioner” for LeT, stating, “I want to execute.  I want to behead.  Shoot.”  ENCARNACION further stated that he aspired to commit terrorist attacks (“a bombing and shooting”) in the United States, but lacked “guidance” and “guns” to do so.

By early 2019, ENCARNACION and UC-1 agreed on a plan that ENCARNACION believed would allow him to join LeT in Pakistan.  ENCARNACION told UC-1 that he had made arrangements to travel to a particular city in Europe (the “European City”), as the first step in traveling to Pakistan to join LeT.  ENCARNACION purchased an airline ticket for a flight scheduled to depart on February 7, 2019, from John F. Kennedy International Airport (“JFK Airport”) to the European City.  On February 7, 2019, ENCARNACION traveled to JFK Airport, where he was arrested by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) after he attempted to board that flight.

In addition to the prison term, ENCARNACION was also sentenced to serve a life term of supervised release.

Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding efforts of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which consists of investigators and analysts from the FBI, the New York City Police Department, and over 50 other federal, state, and local agencies.  Ms. Strauss also thanked the Counterterrorism Section of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division, as well as the New York Office of U. S. Customs and Border Protection.

Attorney General James Sues One of the Nation’s Largest Egg Producers for Price Gouging During the Coronavirus Pandemic

 

Hillandale Farms Gouged Prices of More Than 4 Million Cartons of Eggs, Quadrupling Price of Eggs Sold at Grocery Stores in Low-Income Communities, U.S Military Bases

AG Seeking Restitution for All Consumers Forced to Pay Excessive Prices Due to Hillandale’s Unlawful Activity

  New York Attorney General Letitia James today filed a lawsuit against Hillandale Farms, one of the country’s largest producers and wholesale distributors of eggs, for illegally gouging the prices of eggs during the coronavirus pandemic. In March and April 2020, Hillandale allegedly gouged the prices of more than four million cartons of eggs sold to major grocery store chains, U.S. military facilities, and wholesale food distributors throughout the state, charging New York customers up to four times the pre-pandemic price for one carton of eggs. During those two months — the height of the pandemic in New York — Hillandale made an estimated $4 million from unlawfully increasing the price of these eggs, which were often sold in grocery stores located in low-income communities. The lawsuit seeks restitution from Hillandale for those consumers who were forced to pay unlawfully high prices for this essential food item. The Attorney General’s Office learned of Hillandale’s price gouging after receiving complaints from consumers about the high prices of eggs at grocery stores.

“As this pandemic ravaged our country, Hillandale exploited hardworking New Yorkers to line its own pockets,” said Attorney General James. “In less than two months, Hillandale made millions by cheating our most vulnerable communities and our servicemembers, actions that are both unlawful and truly rotten. I will always stand up for working people, especially when they are taken advantage of by corporate greed.”

The lawsuit alleges that Hillandale, a company based in Ohio and Pennsylvania, began raising prices during March 2020 as the pandemic grew to emergency levels. In January 2020, Hillandale charged Western Beef supermarkets prices ranging from $0.59 to $1.10 for a dozen large white eggs. On March 15, Hillandale raised that price to $1.49. As the pandemic progressed, Hillandale raised the prices it charged Western Beef repeatedly, eventually reaching $2.93 per dozen — a price almost five times the price Hillandale charged in January. 

Hillandale allegedly gouged prices similarly on eggs sold to the commissary store at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. In April 2020, Hillandale charged West Point $3.15 per carton of large eggs, almost quadruple the $0.84 price it charged West Point in January. The suit alleges that Hillandale raised its prices similarly on eggs sold to Stop & Shop, BJ’s Wholesale Club, Associated Supermarkets, and the commissary stores at the U.S. military bases at Fort Hamilton and Fort Drum. 

As Hillandale raised prices on the eggs it sold to grocery stores, consumers complained that the grocery stores raised the prices they charged to consumers. One elderly consumer complained to the Attorney General’s Office in April that he attempted to buy Hillandale eggs at a Fine Fare store located on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, only to find that “All prices are $2.30 and double the price.” He stated, “I’ve been living in the community for 65 years. The prices are ridiculous...Sad and disrespectful to people who are buying from them all our lives.” Another consumer shopping at a Western Beef store complained that the retail price for a dozen Hillandale eggs had increased to $5.49, stating, “This location serves low income families who, due to the current pandemic emergency, have most likely lost what little income they have. Disgraceful!”

The lawsuit alleges that Hillandale has raised its prices not because of increased costs, but simply to take advantage of higher consumer demand during the pandemic. Hillandale — like numerous egg producers nationwide — has done so by following “indexed” prices published by a market research company called Urner Barry. According to the suit, Urner Barry’s “indexed” prices work like a feedback loop: Egg producers such as Hillandale tell Urner Barry their “assessments” of prices in the egg marketplace; Urner Barry then repeats back to egg producers their collective assessments, distilled into “indexed” prices; and egg producers such as Hillandale then use Urner Barry’s indexed prices as justification to set their own prices for the sale of eggs. 

The suit alleges that an Urner Barry director has defended the price increases, stating, “egg prices are up because demand is up sharply.” The director stated, “It’s like ahead of a major snowstorm, when people are not sure if they’ll be able to go out again, other than this is happening on a national scale.” Yet, as the suit points out, protecting consumers against excessive price increases during such times is the purpose of the state’s price gouging statute. 

The lawsuit brings claims against six Hillandale Farms companies, including Hillandale Farms Corp., Hillandale Farms East, Inc., Hillandale Farms of PA, Inc., Hillandale Farms Conn, LLC, Hillandale Farms of Delaware, Inc., and Hillandale-Gettysburg, L.P.

The lawsuit against Hillandale is the second suit brought by Attorney General James in the past three months to stop price gouging by wholesale suppliers during the coronavirus pandemic and protect consumers. In May 2020, Attorney General James sued Quality King Distributors, a Long Island-based wholesale company, for illegally raising prices on Lysol disinfectant products it sold to retail stores in New York.

The lawsuit was filed in the Commercial Division of New York State Supreme Court for New York County. Attorney General James is suing for a permanent injunction barring Hillandale from continuing its illegal conduct, restitution for injured consumers, damages, civil penalties, and disgorgement of Hillandale’s profits from its illegal practices.

“It’s beyond reprehensible that a big company like Hillandale would seek to capitalize on a global health crisis to make a profit,” said David R. Jones, President and CEO of the Community Service Society. “Even more appalling is that countless low-income families in New York, already struggling financially in the wake of the coronavirus, were forced to pay in some cases five times the price for an essential food item — eggs. We applaud State Attorney General James for seeking injunctive relief barring Hillandale Farms from further price-gouging, civil penalties, disgorgement of its illegal profits, and restitution for consumers who were harmed.” 

“We are grateful to Attorney General James and her office for taking a thoughtful and innovative examination of this issue. As we have said from the beginning of this pandemic, the reality is that independently-owned supermarkets such as ours, are not in the business of taking advantage of our customers and while we had no part in increasing the price on eggs, our owners and their employees took the brunt of consumers’ understandable frustration.” said William Rodriguez, President of the National Supermarket Association, and Nelson Eusebio, Director of Government Relations, National Supermarket Association. “Today, we feel the record was set straight.” “We look forward to continuing to serve the hardworking low-income New Yorkers in our communities that we have been faithfully serving for years.”

“It’s bad enough that hunger is soaring in New York because of the collapse of the economy and the closure of school meals programs, but it is even worse when food companies increase hunger by using a national crisis to astronomically raises prices through illegal price gouging,” said Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America. “Eggs are a key staple in the diet of most Americans, so its particular galling that a company would value improper profits over allowing Americans to eat their product. We thank AG James for standing up for the most vulnerable consumers.”

Since the covid-19 pandemic hit New York, food insecurity rates have doubled, putting the health and educational progress of children at risk and threatening the well-being of seniors and low-income families,” said Nicholas Freudenberg, Distinguished Professor of Public Health at CUNY Graduate School of Public Health & Health Policy and Director of CUNY Urban Food Policy Institute. Rising food prices have contributed to recent increases in food insecurity. the lawsuit of Attorney General Letitia James charging Hillandale Farms with price gouging on eggs is an important contribution to fighting food insecurity. By ensuring that food companies don't use the pandemic to reap windfall profits, the Attorney General protects the well-being of all New Yorkers.  

Governor Cuomo Announces 38 Additional Bars' Liquor Licenses Suspended for Egregious Violations of Coronavirus-Related Regulations

 

Multi-Agency Task Force has Conducted Nearly 7,000 Compliance Checks Over Last Week, Observing 162 Violations 

New Suspensions for Bars in New York City and on Long Island

132 Licenses have been Suspended and 707 Charges Have Been Filed During COVID-19 Pandemic — Updated List Available HERE

  Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced the state has suspended liquor licenses for 38 additional bars in New York City and on Long Island after finding egregious violations of pandemic-related Executive Orders. Over the last week, the state's multi-agency task force — led by the State Police and State Liquor Authority — has conducted 6,887 compliance checks, observing violations at 162 establishments. Businesses found in violation of COVID-19 regulations face fines up to $10,000 per violation, while egregious violations can result in the immediate suspension of a bar or restaurant's liquor license. 

"Thanks to New Yorkers' hard work, we have achieved — and maintained — one of the lowest infection rates in the country, but now is not the time to let our guard down. We will not allow a handful of bad actors or reckless businesses to halt or reverse New York's progress," Governor Cuomo said. "This is about enforcement, and while state investigators are working tirelessly to enforce compliance, local governments must step up and do their jobs."   

State Liquor Authority Chair Vincent Bradley said, "The task force has been hard at work to protect the public's health and will continue to hold these establishments, who think they are above the law and immune to this pandemic, accountable for endangering the lives of New Yorkers."

The 38 establishments issued emergency orders of summary suspension from the State Liquor Authority Board are located in New York City and on Long Island, including:

Bronx - 7

Brooklyn - 6 

Manhattan - 12

Queens - 10

Staten Island - 2

Nassau - 1 

The emergency suspensions were ordered by Chairman Bradley, Commissioner Lily Fan and Commissioner Greeley Ford at special meetings of the Full Board on August 5th, August 6th, August 7th, August 8th, August 9th and August 10th conducted by a digitally recorded video under social distancing guidelines. 

Emergency Summary Suspensions are imposed when the SLA finds the continued operation of a licensed business threatens public health and safety. Suspension orders are served immediately and remain in effect indefinitely, with the maximum penalty including the permanent revocation of the license and fines of up to $10,000 per violation. Licensees subject to an emergency suspension are entitled to an expedited hearing before an SLA Administrative Law Judge.

The bars that have been suspended are listed below, along with information on their violations and the date of their suspensions.

"880 Roy's Restaurant & Bar" at 1951 Southern Boulevard in the Bronx, on August 10, 2020  

On August 9th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed at least a dozen patrons without facial coverings standing in groups in front of the restaurant, in close proximity to patrons seated at tables.One patron was observed drinking inside the premises, in violation of the indoor dining restrictions in effect since March 16, 2020 and pursuant to clear SLA and DOH Guidance. Investigators also documented two employees not wearing facial coverings.

"Angiolina's Restaurant" at 1322A Jerome Avenue in the Bronx, on August 10, 2020    

On August 9th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed eleven patrons eating and consuming alcohol, many of them shoulder to shoulder, inside the premises in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020. After initially claiming they were all employees, the manager admitted that they were really patrons when none were able to provide any proof of their employment. 

"Olivia's Restaurant & Lounge" at 1854 Westchester Avenue in the Bronx, on August 7, 2020  

On August 6th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed multiple patrons gathered outside the restaurant without facial coverings, with music blasting from a speaker encouraging patrons to congregate. Four patrons were seen standing and consuming alcohol without facial coverings near the outdoor dining area and two employees were observed without facial coverings.   

"Bestia Kitchen" at 1353 Edward L Grant Highway in the Bronx, on August 5, 2020

On July 31st, investigators observed eight patrons standing in front of the premises, in addition to four employees — including the manager — without facial coverings. Loud music was playing outside, encouraging patrons to congregate and cars to double park in front of the establishment, with investigators documenting a server, who was not wearing a mask, delivering beverages to one of the parked cars without food. Investigators also documented three patrons inside the premises, one drinking alcohol and two smoking hookah.  

"O'Side Restaurant & Lounge" at 1472 Ogden Avenue in the Bronx, on August 5, 2020

On August 2nd, investigators observed an overcrowded nightclub-like atmosphere directly in front of the premises, with music blasting, numerous patrons blocking the sidewalk, drinking, mingling, standing, and ignoring social distancing guidelines. In addition, a security guard was observed without a facial covering. 

"Phoenix Bar and Restaurant" at 1404 Ogden Avenue in the Bronx, on August 6, 2020

On July 31st, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force could hear excessively loud music as they approached the premises, observing a security guard without a facial covering and six patrons drinking on an unlicensed parking lot converted into a nightclub. Investigators report the restaurant was essentially operating as a hookah lounge with a live DJ, serving alcohol without any food in the kitchen, and with five employees — in addition to a DJ and hookah server — without facial coverings.   

"El Trono De Mexico Sports Bar" at 38-19 69th Street in Queens, on August 11, 2020   

On August 10th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed alcohol sold without food at four separate tables outside the restaurant, in violation of the food requirement guidelines implemented to prevent congregations and mingling that have led to spikes of COVID-19 cases in other states.

"El Marquez" at 88-11 Roosevelt Avenue in Queens, on August 11, 2020   

On August 10th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed alcohol sold without food at three separate tables outside the restaurant, in violation of the food requirement guidelines. Two patrons — including one signing karaoke — were observed standing and drinking without facial coverings. A member of the wait staff was also observed without a facial covering. The business is a repeat offender, with investigators observing patrons drinking and congregating outside the premises past the 11 p.m. NYC curfew for outside dining on July 25th. Investigators also found four employees without facial coverings and the kitchen closed.   

"Brasier Ceviche Wine Bar" at 3775 10th Avenue in Manhattan, on August 10, 2020     

On August 8th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force and officers with the NYPD observed a DJ playing extremely loud music outside the restaurant, in violation of licensee-agreed stipulations on noise, creating a nightclub atmosphere with fifteen patrons drinking and congregating directly in front of the premises. Investigators documented two members of the kitchen staff and two patrons inside the restaurant without facial coverings. The establishment was also found selling hookah illegally, including nicotine hookah which is prohibited even with a valid hookah permit.

"Mangu Patio" at 122-07 15th Avenue in Queens, on August 10, 2020

On August 8th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed fifteen patrons standing, congregating and mingling directly outside bar while consuming alcohol, ignoring social distancing guidelines and not wearing facial coverings.

"Solace Bar & Grill" at 3496 Broadway aka 540 West 143rd Street in Manhattan, on August 10, 2020

On August 9th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed ten patrons drinking and congregating directly in front of the premises without facial coverings at around 12:50 a.m., well past the 11:00 p.m. curfew for outside dining in New York City. Multiple employees were also observed without facial coverings, with the restaurant's manager telling investigators he is unable to control the crowds. The manager also admitted to selling hookah without a permit and the premises was found in violation of NYC DOT outdoor guidelines for blocking the sidewalk.  

"Beer Garden at Bohemian Hall" at 29-01-19 24th Avenue in Queens, on August 9, 2020

On August 8th, investigators warned this establishment that patrons are not allowed to stand and consume alcohol outside the premises. Later that evening, investigators from the multi-agency task force observed twenty patrons standing and drinking in the establishment's outdoor area, ignoring social distancing guidelines without facial coverings. Investigators entered the restaurant to find an additional twenty customers lined up for drinks at the bar, in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020.

"Lucky Seven Restaurant & Bar" at 1447-1457 St. Nicholas Avenue in Manhattan, on August 9, 2020

On August 8th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed fifteen patrons standing and consuming alcohol directly in front of the premises. The owner, present at the time of the inspection, claimed he could not control the crowd; however, investigators noted that extremely loud music outside with flashing lights were encouraging patrons to linger and congregate. Investigators also documented five employees without facial coverings.

"Café Expresso" at 25-51A Steinway Street in Astoria, on August 9, 2020

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed fifteen patrons drinking and congregating in front of the premises, ignoring social distancing guidelines — most without facial coverings. There were ten chairs set up set up for outdoor service without tables, and the premises' owner was observed not wearing a facial covering.

"The Hairy Lemon" at 28-30 Avenue B in Manhattan, on August 9, 2020

On August 8th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed patrons standing and drinking without facial coverings outside the premises and confirmed that the location was operating a bar-type service, selling drinks to multiple patrons without substantial food.

"Pyramids Hookah and Bar" at 40-19 Bell Boulevard in Queens, on August 9, 2020

On August 8th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed twelve patrons standing on the sidewalk outside bar, most without facial coverings, drinking and smoking hookah illegally, while congregating and mingling.

"La Casa Del Mofongo" at 1451 St. Nicholas Street in Manhattan, on August 9, 2020

On August 8th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed extremely loud music coming from the premises, encouraging approximately twenty patrons to congregate and drink in front of the establishment, while ignoring social distancing guidelines and without facial coverings. Investigators documented four employees without facial coverings, including three members of the kitchen staff and a manager. Investigators also noted fourteen patrons lined up waiting for table service after the 11:00 p.m. curfew for outside dining in New York City.  

"Las' Lap" at 74 Orchard Street in Manhattan, on August 8, 2020  

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately twenty-five patrons without facial coverings sitting, standing, and kneeling around tables pushed together under a small tent, ignoring social distancing guidelines. Inside the restaurant, investigators observed eight patrons — including two who were seated — eating and drinking, which has been illegal since March 16, 2020. 

"Dark Bullet Sake and Oyster Bar" at 154 West 72nd Street in Manhattan, on August 8, 2020   

On August 3rd, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed several patrons inside the premises drinking at the bar and playing pool with no food being served. When investigators entered, fifteen patrons immediately exited the premises with alcoholic beverages.  

"Spicy Moon Vegan Szechuan" at 68 West 3rd Street in Manhattan, on August 8, 2020  

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed approximately fourteen patrons inside the premises drinking, including two at the bar and four dancing. In addition, three employees were observed without facial coverings. Outside, five patrons were standing and drinking without facial coverings.  

"Cielo Ristorante" at 1435 Hylan Boulevard on Staten Island, on August 8, 2020 

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed several patrons seated at tables inside the restaurant eating and drinking in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Order in place since March 16, 2020. 

"The Wayland" at 700 East 9th Street in Manhattan, on August 8, 2020   

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed at least 13 patrons without facial coverings standing the outside bar, congregating and mingling. Investigators also noted patrons served drinks at an outdoor table without food.

"Gold Room BK" at 429 Rogers Avenue in Brooklyn, on August 8, 2020   

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed two patrons eating and drinking inside the premises and two others standing at the bar consuming alcohol. In addition, three patrons and two employees were observed without facial coverings and ignoring social distancing guidelines.    

"Halsey Bar & Grill" at 4404 Avenue H in Brooklyn, on August 8, 2020    

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed two patrons inside the restaurant drinking alcohol and several employees, including the manager, without facial coverings.  Six patrons were also observed standing in front of the premises ignoring social distancing guidelines.  

"The Juicy Box" at 2281 Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn, on August 8, 2020     

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed ten patrons standing, drinking, and congregating under a tent outside the premises, ignoring social distancing guidelines. The owner, who was present at the time of the inspection, and several of his employees were not wearing facial coverings. In addition, NYPD officers recovered illegal fireworks inside the premises and issued a summons.

"Aliada" at 29-19 Broadway in Astoria, on August 8, 2020    

On August 7th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed several patrons outside, congregating, standing, and consuming alcohol, presumably while waiting for seating. Additionally, numerous tables were arranged indoors in order to provide dining during a rainstorm.

"Maiden Lane" at 162 Avenue B in Manhattan, on August 7, 2020  

On August 6th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed the restaurant selling alcohol for consumption on the premises and 'to go' with just a 0.5-ounce package of oyster crackers — in flagrant violation of state requirements that substantial food be served to limit mingling in bars. Investigators documented six customers being served at a walk up bar at an outside window, approximately seventeen patrons drinking on the premises with only crackers, and another patron ordering two margaritas served with straws and no food, who then proceeded to walk across the street and get in a car.   

"14 East 47th Pub Inc." aka "Connolly's Pub" at 14 East 47th Street in Manhattan, on August 7, 2020     

On August 6th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed multiple patrons gathered outside the restaurant, ignoring social distancing guidelines, standing and drinking from open containers in full view of the restaurant's manager.

"Dominie's" at 34-07 30th Avenue in Astoria, on August 7, 2020   

On August 6th, after warning the premises earlier that evening regarding employees wearing facial coverings and patrons walking up and ordering from the bar, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force returned to find four patrons standing and consuming alcohol, two patrons inside ordering drinks without food from the bar, and kitchen staff without facial coverings.  

"Cloister Café" at 238 East 9th Street in Manhattan, on August 7, 2020     

On August 7th, the New York City Sheriff's Office requested assistance from the state's multi-agency task force at this establishment approximately 12:30 a.m. — well past the 11 p.m. NYC curfew. Investigators found the restaurant operating as a nightclub and hookah lounge with a live DJ, documenting numerous patrons ignoring social distancing with lines of customers congregating in front of the premises without facial coverings, at least twenty patrons consuming alcohol indoors under a fixed roof, and no receipts for food purchases. The inspection identified thirty-three significant fire and life safety violations, with the NYC Sheriff's Office issuing seven criminal court summonses.  

"Marie's" at 5 Hyatt Street on Staten Island, on August 6, 2020

On August 5th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed multiple patrons gathered outside the restaurant ignoring social distancing guidelines, standing and drinking. In addition, investigators found a walk-up bar service selling drinks without food, and two employees - including the owner — without facial coverings. When investigators spoke with the owner, she insisted she does not have to wear a facial covering in her own establishment, in direct violation of the Governor's orders.

"The Village Green" at 14-17 150th Street in Queens, on August 6, 2020

On August 5th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force found the premises doors locked, with the curtains drawn and a sign obstructing the view inside. Investigators were able to enter the premises when an employee removing trash - including liquor bottles — opened the front door. Inside, investigators documented four patrons drinking indoors at the bar without food being served and a bartender in close proximity to the patrons without a facial covering. 

"Ponte Vecchio Restaurant" at 8810 4th Avenue in Brooklyn, on August 6, 2020

On August 5th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed twelve patrons dining inside the restaurant, which has been illegal since March 16, 2020. Investigators also noted approximately ten patrons without facial coverings walking through the interior of the restaurant onto the back patio.  

"Elliot's" at 23 Woodcleft Avenue in Freeport, on August 6, 2020

At approximately 6:30 p.m. on August 5th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed multiple patrons walking around and drinking at an outside bar, kitchen staff without facial coverings, and management serving patrons alcohol without food. After initially attempting to pass off falsified receipts with food orders, the manager admitted he had fabricated them and that the venue was running a bar service. Despite being caught with multiple violations earlier that evening, the premises continued to operate and when investigators returned two hours later, they found approximately 100 patrons crammed into the location. Investigators contacted the Freeport Police Department and, when police arrived, they found sixty-nine patrons standing shoulder to shoulder at the crowded outside bar, drinking and ignoring social distancing. 

"Gran Torino" at 131 Berry Street in Brooklyn, on August 6, 2020

On August 4th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed six patrons at three separate tables eating and drinking inside, in violation of the Governor's Executive Orders which do not permit indoor service in NYC.

"The End Zone" at 149-44 14th Avenue in Queens, on August 6, 2020

On August 5th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed seven patrons being served inside the premises — which is prohibited in New York City — from a bartender without a facial covering. 

"Anaiah Restaurant" at 744 Myrtle Avenue in Brooklyn, on August 5, 2020

On July 30th, investigators with the state's multi-agency task force observed 15 patrons drinking and smoking hookah in a shed constructed in the rear yard of the premises. The restaurant had no food service at the time of the inspection, with investigators also documenting three employees without facial coverings. 

"Signature & Faberge" at 2007-2011 Emmons Avenue in Brooklyn, on August 5, 2020 

On July 24th NYPD officers observed approximately 150-200 patrons in front of and inside of the premises at 1:30 a.m., in flagrant violation of the Governor's Executive Orders and past the 11 p.m. curfew for outside dining in New York City. The NYPD reports they have issued numerous warnings to the establishment, with the restaurant requiring constant police presence during the weekends.