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Queens lawmakers applaud passage of property tax exemption bill for fully disabled veterans
Queens lawmakers applaud passage of property tax exemption bill for fully disabled veterans

Jun. 24, 2025 By Czarinna Andres

Queens lawmakers are celebrating the passage of a long-sought bill that would provide a full real property tax exemption for veterans with a 100% service-connected disability—a significant measure aimed at easing the financial burdens of some of New York’s most severely injured service members.

State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr., who represents neighborhoods across central and southwestern Queens, including Forest Hills, Glendale and Ozone Park, announced the Senate’s passage of the bill (S.1183/A.74) on June 20. The bill, which he has carried since 2019, was passed by the New York State Assembly for the first time this year, with Assembly Member Stacey Pheffer Amato, who represents Rockaway and parts of southern Queens, as the lead sponsor.

“This legislation is about respect, dignity, and responsibility,” said Addabbo, who serves on the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs. “Veterans who live with a 100% service-connected disability have given everything in the defense of our nation. They deserve more than just our thanks—they deserve real, tangible support.”

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Cool spots to stay productive: Remote work-friendly spaces in Queens

Jun. 23, 2025 By Jessica Militello

With a sweltering heatwave gripping Queens this week, working from home might be just a little too stifling. Fortunately, the borough is filled with welcoming spaces that make remote work both productive and refreshing. Whether you’re looking to cut down on your AC use, need stronger Wi-Fi, or simply crave a change of scenery, these spots offer great vibes, cool air and quality coffee (or tea) to keep you going.

Unlicensed but essential: Street vendors seek reform amid enforcement fears

Jun. 23, 2025 By Jimmy Robles

Many street vendors in New York City face significant challenges from the moment they set up their stands, striving to make an honest living. With more than 20,000 food vendors operating across the five boroughs, an estimated 75% do so without a license or permit, due in large part to the city’s decades-old cap on available permits.

Hate Crimes Task Force investigating bomb threats against Mamdani: NYPD

The NYPD’s Hate Crimes Task Force launched a probe into multiple death threats made against Assembly Member Zohran Mamdani after his district office at 24-08 32nd St. in Astoria received four expletive-filled phone voicemails, on various dates, making threatening anti-Muslim statements by an unknown individual, including a threat to blow up his car.

The calls were made from an untraceable number and labeled the mayoral candidate a “terrorist who is not welcome in New York or America” in a message phoned in on Wednesday morning.

Queens Defenders founder charged with stealing nonprofit funds as second scandal unfolds

The founder of the Queens Defenders and her husband have lawyered up after they were indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly stealing tens of thousands of dollars from the non-profit organization.

Former Queens Defenders executive director Lori Zeno, 64, surrendered Wednesday at the Brooklyn federal courthouse. Zeno was arraigned on an indictment charging her and Rashad Ruhani, 55, with wire fraud conspiracy, theft, money laundering conspiracy and other crimes.