Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) blasted the Palisades traffic court Thursday after it dragged Chaveirim volunteer David Konnhauser to multiple hearings and rescinded a dismissal of a ticket he received for operating an “unauthorized service vehicle” while helping a member of Hatzolah change a flat tire at a rest stop. Assemblyman Hikind joined Konnhauser in court to fight the violation Nov. 3 and last evening, in which the police officer didn’t make an appearance. While the original “unauthorized service vehicle” violation was dismissed, the Chaveirim volunteer was fined $50 for parking illegally. “In the state of New York, if an officer doesn’t appear in court, the case is dismissed; Period,” Assemblyman Hikind said with disgust following last night’s hearing. “It’s bad enough the court decides to penalize someone for being a good Samaritan and helping another in need, but then to drag him out to court multiple times and rescind the prosecutor’s recommendation to dismiss the ticket is the epitome of disrespect.” Hikind added: “The Chaveirim volunteer wasn’t even operating out of a service vehicle in the first place. So whether it’s considered an unauthorized or authorized vehicle is irrelevant. He was helping another good Samaritan change a flat tire.” Konnhauser, who resides in Brooklyn, appeared in the Alpine, N.J. court four times dating back to mid-September, in which he continued to plead not guilty for the violation. The Palisades Interstate Parkway Commission offered Konnhauser a plea deal of $50, but he refused to pay based on principle. A hearing was then scheduled for Nov. 3. With Assemblyman Hikind appearing at the hearing on Nov. 3, the prosecutor recommended to dismiss the ticket altogether. However prior to the judge approving this recommendation, the police officer informed the court of his desire to go to trial, thereby nullifying this agreement. Another hearing was slated for last evening, in which Assemblyman Hikind appeared once again with Konnhauser and once again, the police officer failed to appear in court. Rather than schedule another hearing, Judge Marc Raso decided to dismiss the “unauthorized service vehicle” violation and, instead, issue a ticket for illegally parking. Hikind, disgusted at the series of events in traffic court, is calling on the Bergen County presiding judge to conduct an immediate investigation into the behavior of the court. “Something is not Kosher on the Palisades Interstate Parkway,” Hikind said. “This cannot be allowed to continue at the expense of the general public. Good Samaritans should never be victimized for their volunteerism. Added Hikind: “It’s unfortunate that members of Hatzolah, who receive frequent dispatch calls, are being told by the Palisades court that they should wait for an authorized service to change a tire rather than save a life.” (YWN World Headquarters – NYC)

Tonight at an election forum in Flatbush, NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind made his choice for president known. “I have decided to write in Speaker Paul Ryan for President of the United States”, Hikind told the crowd at Talmud Torah Of Flatbush. “He (Ryan) is a superstar with great integrity and morality”. Tonight’s event gave community members the opportunity to ask questions to Hikind regarding Donald Trump as well as Rabbi Menachem Genack responding to questions regarding Hillary Clinton. (Chaim Shapiro – YWN)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) warned motorists to check their license status after penning a letter to the Department of Motor Vehicles inquiring about the steps taken when a motorist fails to respond to a moving violation. The letter comes on the heels of several complaints being lodged, with motorists claiming they were arrested for unknowingly driving with a suspended license. Within the letter, Assemblyman Hikind requested clarification as to how the motorist is notified once given a violation, what happens should the motorist not appear at the hearing and what kind of grace period (if any) is granted. The DMV responded, saying, for motorists driving in NYC and Rochester, a failure to appear at the hearing does not result in an immediate suspension of a license. Eight days after missing a hearing, the motorist is notified by letter of a pending driver’s license suspension, and then has three weeks to answer. If the driver fails to respond, they are notified by mail that they have been default convicted after 30 days from the suspension date, and the suspension remains in place. Outside of NYC and Rochester, the 1,400 municipalities are required to wait 60 days for a response before they can submit a suspension order to the DMV. At that time, a notice will be automatically generated and mailed the following business day to the address of record for the motorist. The driver then has 37 days to respond to the court. The suspended motorist does not receive a separate mailing from either the DMV or the municipal court that issued the suspension order notifying them that their license has been suspended after the initial mailing. “It is imperative that we remain aware of the status on our license at all times,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “We must take precautionary measures and ensure that we’re in good standing. Until we are notified that the violation has been resolved, it is the responsibility of the motorist to be proactive. If a motorist legally changes their name or moves, they must notify the DMV immediately.” Added Hikind: “Driving with a suspended license is dangerous, against the law and will lead to an automatic arrest. It’s as simple as that. We have the tools to check the status of our license online at the DMV website. I encourage all motorists to use the tools provided to ensure they’re in good standing.” Below is the link to the DMV website where motorists can go to monitor the status of their license: https://dmv.ny.gov/mydmv/mydmv (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) released a statement Erev Shabbos following the return of four stolen Sifrei Torah from a Shul located at 808 Avenue O near East 8th St. “The community is overjoyed at the return of the Sifrei Torah,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “The Torah scrolls represent the heart of the Jewish people, and as the Sabbath approaches, we breathe a sigh of relief knowing our Torah scrolls are safely back in our possession.” The Torah scrolls were found in four large garbage bags by an individual learning at the Shul until 1:30 a.m. Security surveillance footage shows a man double-parked and placing the four bags containing the Sifrei Torah outside the Shul. Police are continuing to investigate the footage. “While we appreciate and are very thankful for the return of the Sifrei Torah, we look forward to justice being served,” Hikind added. (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) penned a letter to Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner Mitchell Silver on Tuesday, requesting an increase in hours of separate gender swimming for women at Metropolitan Pool and Recreation Center in Williamsburg. In May, after a complaint was filed with the NYC Commission on Human Rights, the Parks Department announced that it was going to end the separate swimming policy, claiming it was discriminatory. However after careful consideration, the Human Rights Commission agreed to issue an exemption that would allow the arrangement to continue. “I applaud Mayor de Blasio and the Human Rights Commission, as well as the Department of Parks and Recreation in continuing separate gender swimming hours,” Assemblyman Hikind said in the letter. “This separate gender swimming program has proven to be very popular and well attended.” Community Board 1 voted unanimously in favor of keeping separate gender swimming hours, 33-0, and recently asked Commissioner Silver to place a moratorium on the reduction of swimming hours to allow the community and elected officials the opportunity to resolve the issue. Hikind will join the board in its next meeting at 6 p.m. tonight at 211 Ainslie Street to support an increase in swimming hours for women. Hikind explained that while he appreciated the continuation of the program, the hours would be reduced to half of what they were beginning in October. “Unfortunately the reduction will create overcrowding during the swim period,” he said. “Only a certain number of swimmers are permitted to use the pool at one time, and there is now a long line of women waiting their turn. Additionally, when these women have the opportunity to swim, their time will be severely limited in order to allow those waiting to have a chance.” Added Hikind: “In order to meet the demand of the program’s popularity, I respectfully request that the Parks Department not only restore the previous hours, but actually increase them to accommodate all women who wish to take advantage of the facility. This will ensure that those wishing to use the pool have the maximum opportunity to do so. By allowing all women to swim separately, we send a clear message that NYC is culturally sensitive and recognizes the diverse nature of its residents. (YWN Desk – NYC)

In a letter to Yankee President Randy Levine, Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) called for swift action to address an incident that occurred during a game at Yankee Stadium back on September 12, 2016. A couple of weeks ago, Mr. Ben Lapin, a life-long Yankee fan and Orthodox Jew, attended a Yankee game at Yankee Stadium. There was nothing out of the ordinary until Mr. Lapin had his yarmulke (skullcap) pulled off his head by a fellow patron seated behind him. This patron proceeded to taunt Mr. Lapin and finally after numerous pleas, returned his yarmulke to him. “I am appalled and dismayed that such behavior could have occurred and not be further pursued by the Yankee organization,” said Hikind in the letter. “Baseball is America’s favorite pastime, and people and their families attend a game to enjoy themselves. Imagine the pain and degradation Mr. Lapin experienced as this incident unfolded. He relayed to me how distraught he was and how it continued to negatively affect him for several days afterward, to the point that he was not able to enjoy his anniversary. To add insult to injury, when Mr. Lapin went to report this incident to stadium officials, they tried to minimize it and took no action.” As an attempt to pacify Mr. Lapin, Yankee officials offered him free tickets to a future game. “It is an outrage that this type of abhorrent behavior go unanswered,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “Mr. Lapin, a father of five, did not appeal to me to take action for some free tickets. He wants the Yankee organization to set an example by helping identify these perpetrators and aid him in pursuing harassment charges.” “We need to send a clear and strong message that there is no place for this type of behavior anywhere,” added Hikind. (YWN Desk – NYC)

[PHOTOS IN EXTENDED ARTICLE] Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) toured the community with NYC DOT Commissioner Polly Trottenberg on Monday, along with Commanding Officer Ken Quick of the 66th Precinct, to address numerous safety concerns within the district. The Assemblyman took Commissioner Trottenberg to several different locations to highlight many safety hazards, while suggesting additional traffic signage in an effort to improve driver and pedestrian safety. This meeting was held to continue Assemblyman Hikind’s efforts to address the many concerns of residents relating to the safety of their children and dangerous conditions along the streets of the district. These concerns encompass many areas in Boro Park as well as areas along Ocean Parkway and Midwood. “Keeping our communities, families and children safe is of the utmost importance, and we should do everything we can to ensure that that holds true,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “I look forward to working with this superstar of a commissioner to ensure the safety of our communities. Commissioner Trottenberg has always been receptive and responsive any time she has been called upon to act. I appreciate her coming to the community personally to address our safety concerns.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Back in December, Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) requested that the NYC Board of Elections make voter registration forms available in Yiddish. “I am proud to announce that as of today, these forms are now available in Yiddish,” said Assemblyman Hikind. “There are thousands of Yiddish-speakers in my district and New York State,” said Hikind. In a prior letter to NYC Board of Elections President Michael Michel, Hikind wrote, “Making voter registration forms available in Yiddish will encourage native speakers of the language to register to vote by making the process more comfortable, inviting, and user-friendly.” Hikind added, “I invite you to take a look at any newsstand near my office, where you will see dozens of Yiddish language newspapers, magazines, and other publications, attesting to the vibrancy and every day usage of the language. As another Election Day draws closer, ballots and other materials generated by the Board of Elections, as well as information on the website, will continue to be displayed only in Bengali, Chinese, Korean, and Spanish. The voter registration handbook was even translated into Russian. But there are no Yiddish voting materials.” “I applaud Mike Ryan from the NYC Board of Elections and the NYC Council, as well as NYC Council Speaker, Melissa Mark-Viverito for making this a reality. Everyone deserves the right to have their voice heard and be able to vote. Now Yiddish speaking constituents can now register with ease,” said the Assemblyman. “I urge all who have not yet registered to vote, to take the time now, to do so. Applications must be postmarked no later than October 14th and received by a board of elections no later than October 19th to be eligible to vote in the General Election,” said Assemblyman Hikind. Forms are available at Assemblyman Hikind’s office located at 1310 48th street, 2nd floor, or it can be download online here. (YWN Desk – NYC)

In a letter to NYS Department of Transportation Commissioner Matthew Driscoll, Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) requested that the current improvement plan to Ocean Parkway be modified. The current plan will eliminate right turns from the mainline of Ocean Parkway onto Avenue J, Avenue P and Kings Highway forcing drivers to turn a block earlier or later. “We all agree that safety is the top priority. However, after requesting, receiving and reviewing a report of the accident pattern of high crash intersections from DOT, I am more perplexed,” said Assemblyman Hikind in the letter. The NYS DOT cited numerous accident statistics to justify the above changes. Assemblyman Hikind requested the same statistics from the local NYPD precincts, only to discover that these statistics did not indicate any bicycle accidents for the past two years and hardly any pedestrian accidents at these intersections as well. “I believe some of the planned changes will make Ocean Parkway less safe, create more traffic and leave motorists more confused,” said Assemblyman Hikind. It will, “create more traffic along the service road and more of a hazard for pedestrians, especially children.” Additionally, 15 valuable parking spaces along the service road will be eliminated to implement these “improvements” along Ocean Parkway. Assemblyman Hikind is urging everyone affected by these changes to contact NYS DOT Commissioner Driscoll at 518-457-4422 and urge him to modify this plan. (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) honored U.S. Coast Guard volunteer Jack Rosenberg Sunday at the Miracle of Cresskill picnic for his heroic efforts in landing a plane at Reagan Field one year ago. Jack Rosenberg and co-pilot Erik Pearson took off in a small private plane with the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, a 1978 Cessna 172, out of Linden Airport in New Jersey to survey the Hudson River when the pilots noticed that the plane started to lose power. Rather than land in Reagan Field, where children were playing, Rosenberg instead opted to land into trees and brush to avoid injuring those at the park. The plane crashed just before 5 p.m. behind the Cresskill Community Center, leaving both pilots injured. “It was so inspiring to hear of Jack Rosenberg’s heroic story,” Assemblyman Hikind said at the picnic. “Here’s a man who maneuvered his plane in a way to avoid injuring children playing nearby. This pilot’s heroic landing will never be forgotten.” Rosenberg, who was showered with applause after telling his story to hundreds in attendance, received much praise for his heroism, but claimed he was no hero. “This is just what G-d wanted to happen,” he said. “Jack’s swift thinking saved so many lives that day, including his own, and he will forever be revered for it,” Hikind said. The U.S. Coast Guard and his co-pilot continue to recover from severe injuries they sustained at the night of the crash. (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) visited with homeowners to address notice of violations distributed by the Department of Transportation for damaged sidewalks caused by tree roots. After visiting with homeowners who received DOT sidewalk violations, Assemblyman Hikind called on the NYC DOT to be more transparent and clearly state what damages the homeowner is responsible for. The motion comes just weeks after Hikind’s office received numerous calls from residents who received a notice of violation after their property had been inspected and the sidewalk was found to have defects, including broken flags, trip hazards, freestanding or an improper slope. In the conjunction with the violation notice, DOT also issues an accompanying Inspection Report diagram informing property owners which of the flags are defective – a sidewalk flag marked with an “X” is identified as ‘non-assessable.’” “Just imagine you get home from work one day and you see a DOT violation notice in your mailbox,” Assemblyman Hikind explained. “Not only is the language and diagram very difficult to understand, but homeowners are left unaware as to what they’re responsible for. Because of that, you have hundreds of homeowners who unnecessarily spent millions of dollars repairing damaged sidewalks that they weren’t even responsible for.” Due to a New York City law that states property owners are responsible for the maintenance of the sidewalks adjacent to their properties, homeowners may feel the need to fix the damaged sidewalks themselves. However Assemblyman Hikind’s office confirmed with Parks Department officials that homeowners are not financially responsible for sidewalk flags that are identified as “non-assessable.” Assemblyman Hikind went on to suggest that the letter and corresponding diagram homeowners receive are confusing and difficult to understand. The notice states that New York City law, under Section 2904 of the New York City Charter and Section 190-152 of the New York City Administrative Code, “require property owners to maintain the sidewalk adjacent to their property” and is “responsible for repairing all defects.” The notice goes on to state that the homeowner is required to take out a permit and begin the work within 45 days. Should the homeowner not complete repairs, the city may opt to hire private construction firms to make the necessary repairs and bill the homeowner. “The notice clearly puts the responsibility of maintenance and repairs solely upon the homeowner,” Hikind said in a letter to NYC DOT Commissioner Polly Trottenberg. “The notices are very misleading.” Hikind added, “In the era of transparency, a notice of violation must clearly state that damaged sidewalk flags caused by tree roots are not the financial responsibility of the homeowner and they will not be charged. Due to the ambiguity of the violations, many homeowners, instead, elect to reach into their own pockets to cover the cost of repairs. I urge the Department to revise the Notice of Violation and clearly explain in an easily understood fashion which flags are the financial responsibility of the homeowner.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) recently called on the Department of Transportation to revise and clarify its Notice of Violation for damaged or raised sidewalks due to uprooted trees planted by the city. Over the course of the past few months, Assemblyman Hikind’s office has received numerous calls from residents within the district who received a notice of violation after their property had been inspected and the sidewalk was found to have defects, including broken flags, trip hazards, freestanding or an improper slope. In the violation, DOT also issues an accompanying Inspection Report diagram informing property owners which of the flags are defective – a sidewalk flag marked with an “X” is identified as ‘non-assessable.’” Due to a New York City law that states property owners are responsible for the maintenance of the sidewalks adjacent to their properties, homeowners may feel the need to fix the damaged sidewalks themselves. “In many cases that we have documented, it is the thick, powerful roots of the city’s own trees that have raised or damaged the sidewalk,” Assemblyman Hikind said in a letter to DOT Commissioner Polly Trottenberg. “In conversations with DOT and Parks Department officials, our office confirmed that homeowners are not financially responsible for sidewalk flags that are identified as “non-assessable.” According to the DOT official website, “tree-damaged flags of the sidewalk are non-assessable and the property owner will not be charged for those flags.” However, Assemblyman Hikind went on to suggest that the letter and corresponding diagram homeowners receive are confusing and difficult to understand. The notice states that New York City law, under Section 2904 of the New York City Charter and Section 190-152 of the New York City Administrative Code, “require property owners to maintain the sidewalk adjacent to their property” and is “responsible for repairing all defects.” The notice goes on to state that the homeowner is required to take out a permit and begin the work within 45 days. Should the homeowner not complete repairs, the city may opt to hire private construction firms to make the necessary repairs and bill the homeowner. “The notice clearly puts the responsibility of maintenance and repairs solely upon the homeowner,” Hikind said in the letter. “The notices are misleading. Nowhere does it inform the homeowner that they are not responsible for the repair of a tree-damaged sidewalk.” Hikind added, “In the era of transparency, a notice of violation must clearly state that damaged sidewalk flags caused by tree roots are not the financial responsibility of the homeowner and they will not be charged. Due to the ambiguity of the violations, many homeowners, instead, elect to reach into their own pockets to cover the cost of repairs. I urge the Department to revise the Notice of Violation and clearly explain in an easily understood fashion which flags are the financial responsibility of the homeowner.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

After David Schwartz, Communications Assistant to Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn), informed the assemblyman of numerous complaints regarding weak water pressure in certain sections of Boro Park, Hikind called on the Department of Environmental Protection to address and resolve this quality-of-life issue. Many of the complaints lodged were by homeowners residing between 45th Street to 48th Street and 9th Avenue to Fort Hamilton Parkway. Assemblyman Hikind’s request comes on the heels of observing firsthand the difficulties homeowners have with common household tasks, like washing dishes and doing laundry, due to a lack of water pressure. While some residents continue to suffer with low to moderate water pressure, others experience water trickling out of their shower heads and faucets at an unbearably slow rate, making it impossible to run multiple water-consuming appliances simultaneously. DEP representatives previously came to the area to investigate the situation, but claimed that there was nothing wrong with the water pressure. Hikind consulted with Moshe Fischman, a master plumber with over four decades of professional experience, in an effort to get a better understanding of why sections of Boro Park are experiencing weak water pressure. Following the meeting, Hikind penned a letter to Vincent Sapienza, the Commissioner of Dept. of Environmental Protection, urging the department to look into the matter and address the situation expeditiously. “After spending time with numerous irate homeowners, I saw firsthand and can attest to the serious conditions many of these families have had to endure,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “To be forced to wait several hours for a bathtub to fill up is absolutely unacceptable. Tenants within the same house are forced to coordinate when they will shower due to weak water pressure in the area. Nobody should be subjected to a trickling faucet or shower head after coming home from a long day’s work in the summer months.” Added Hikind: “The lack of water pressure has significantly reduced the quality of life of these residents. I am requesting that the Dept. of Environmental Protection address this issue, and would welcome the commissioner to come see firsthand the conditions that these residents are forced to live with.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) praised Mayor de Blasio, NYC Commission on Human Rights and NYC Parks and Recreation for announcing a citywide decision to continue separate gender swimming programs at certain NYC public pools. The announcement to keep separate swimming schedules comes after pool officials at Metropolitan Pool in Williamsburg notified several women that the program would be discontinued. Dozens of women from the community then turned to Assemblyman Dov Hikind, who criticized NYC for not being more “culturally sensitive and respecting of others,” noting that the program had been in place for decades. “I’m so proud that NYC is making separate swimming accommodations kosher not just for the Hassidic community, but for all women,” Assemblyman Hikind said, who was also joined by Councilman Stephen Levin, Assemblyman Joseph Lentol and a representative of Rabbi Niederman, President of United Jewish Organizations of Williamsburg. “The fact that the Commission on Human Rights is formally recognizing separate swimming hours is unprecedented. It’s historic. I’m thrilled to thank Mayor de Blasio and the Commission for continuing to accommodate and properly respect those differences.” Hikind added, “There are hundreds of people regardless of race, religion or creed that feel more comfortable swimming separately from the opposite gender. By respecting everyone’s differences, NYC sends an unequivocal message encouraging and promoting citywide cultural diversity.” “Today’s decision will enable many women, especially elderly, of all faiths and backgrounds, including Orthodox Jews and Muslims, who want this privacy for many reasons, to continue having their recreation and therapeutic swimming which is so important for their health and well-being,” said Rabbi David Niederman, President of the UJO of Williamsburg and North Brooklyn per a statement. “We thank Mayor Bill de Blasio, and his Human Rights Commission for this right and fair decision, reaffirming our foundational principal that we all are created equal, and endowed by the Creator with certain unalienable Rights. We are especially thankful to Assemblyman Dov Hikind, for leading the fight to defend the rights of these women.” Added Hikind: “There are hundreds of people regardless of race, religion or creed that feel more comfortable with same-sex swimming. By respecting everyone’s differences, NYC sends an unequivocal message encouraging and promoting citywide cultural diversity.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) recently addressed illegal garbage dumping throughout the community after noticing large amounts of trash being left out on street corners. To resolve the issue, Hikind wrote a letter to Superintendent Adam Engleman of NYC Sanitation Enforcement requesting enforcement agents “open trash bags to track down who the perpetrators are and issue a sanitation summons.” “In addition, I urge sanitation enforcement agents to request and review any video surveillance from the stores and try to determine who is illegally dumping refuse,” Hikind continued in the letter. “The utter disrespect and disregard of a community and its residents by a few individuals should not go unpunished.” Major commercial avenues, like 13th Avenue in Boro Park, have been subjected to an excessive quantity of household trash and recycling bags, which are often torn, leaving debris scattered along the street. In addition, furniture, construction material, appliances, bicycles and unwrapped mattresses have been spotted on street corners as well. “Nobody likes to walk down the street and see an overwhelmingly large amount of trash overflowing into the streets,” Assemblyman Hikind said of the quality-of-life matter. “We must do our due diligence in tracking down and fining those who are illegally dumping their garbage. The people of our community deserve a better, cleaner community.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) slammed a decision made by Brooklyn College to exonerate its students of anti-Semitic charges brought against them after they interrupted a faculty council meeting months ago with anti-Semitic chants. After students barged into a faculty council meeting and chanted “Zionists Out of CUNY” and “Zionist pigs” toward Faculty Council Chairman Yedidyah Langsam, the meeting was adjourned. Assemblyman Hikind, who then received phone calls from numerous professors and administrators fearful for their safety, called for CUNY to investigate the incident and for the suspension of the students. The disciplinary committee, however, found on May 20 two students “not culpable” of three of the four charges. They received a warning for the fourth charge of “failing to comply with lawful directions.” “I am outraged that students, who threatened a group of administrators with several hateful, anti-Semitic remarks, were exonerated; This is a complete and utter whitewash” Assemblyman Hikind said in disbelief. “I’m sorely disappointed that Brooklyn College has failed to discipline its students for intimidating and minimalizing a group of people; I’m in shock. Brooklyn College missed a great opportunity to set an example that hatred and intimidation will not be tolerated.” In a press release issued by Palestine Legal, it was documented that “nine professors from seven departments testified that the ‘mic check’ lasted only a few minutes, and that the faculty council meeting need not have been adjourned, that no harm came to the faculty council or university business…” “I spoke with professors on an individual basis, and they reaffirmed their fear of these students and were intimidated beyond imagination; some even feared for their safety,” Assemblyman Hikind said in response to the release. “By not penalizing students for their hateful actions, we’re only empowering others to repeat this offensive behavior and inviting more instances like this in the future.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) presented well-respected community leader Abu Naser Khaliquzzaman with a legislative resolution in his district office on Thursday for Mr. Khaliquzzaman’s continued dedication to bridging Jewish and Muslim communities. “It is my pleasure to present Mr. Abu Naser Khaliquzzaman with a legislative resolution for his work and unrivaled dedication to bridging many communities together throughout the world,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “We are all children of God, and that’s what is impressive about Abu – he works with every community regardless of religion, race or creed.” Hikind added, “I was thrilled to have joined Sen. Charles Schumer and a plethora of other elected officials in honoring Abu for the great work that he does and will continue to do. From the bottom of my heart, I want to say ‘thank you.’” Khaliquzzaman accepted the resolution his son Ishtiaque Zaman and Arthur Isaacson—principal of Arthur Isaacson & Co., CPA—,with members of the Jewish community in attendance as well. As a native of Bangladesh, Khaliquzzaman migrated to the U.S. in 1997, where he earned a B.S. and M.S. in Pharmacy. Abu is the current president of World Trade Promotion Center, Inc., a Brooklyn-based distributor of American food and agriculture products. Additionally, Khaliquzzaman was elected President of the Parent Teacher Association of I.S. 220 back in 2007, and currently serves as a Board Member for the District 12 Dahil Neighborhood in Brooklyn. “Life is all about doing for other people and being there when people need you most, and that is what Abu exemplifies,” Hikind concluded. “We need more people like him in this world.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) was joined by Captain Kenneth Quick of the NYPD 66th Precinct, representatives from Erasmus Field, NYC Parks and Recreation Dept. and local community leaders at Friends Field Clubhouse last Thursday to address numerous noise complaints emanating from the fields on weekend evenings. After listening to nearly 30 irate community members complain about constant noise into the wee hours of the night, including whistle-blowing, loud drumming on bleachers and deafening music, leaders of the community then walked through Friends Field to begin enforcing park rules. “It is unbelievable and unacceptable that people are being subjected to deafening noise in their own homes,” Assemblyman Hikind said during the meeting. “We have a situation where homeowners’ lives are being disrupted, and we simply cannot allow for that to continue. This isn’t Yankee Stadium; we shouldn’t have to hear loud music being played at midnight.” Despite the noise complaints, Hikind encouraged the use of Friends and Erasmus Fields, urging members of the community to take advantage of what the fields have to offer. “These parks provide families with hours of entertainment on the weekends, and are a great place to spend time with loved ones. I’m not against anyone having fun in the park, however rules need to be enforced. If the rules are enforced, people will abide by them and we’ll start to see the noise dissipate.” Hikind added, “I will continue to monitor this noise issue with the help of the Parks Dept. and 66th Precinct, and together, we will do everything in our power to enforce park rules from this moment on.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) joined Sen. Marty Golden (R-Brooklyn) in proposing a tax credit for the installation of security surveillance cameras outside of private homes and commercial buildings. Hikind also presented money rewards for the personal security surveillance video that led to the arrests of the perpetrators who brutally attacked a 60-year-old man on Avenue M back in December. “Security cameras are essential now,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “This is about protecting the well-being of our families, homes, businesses, and communities, especially with the constant threat of terrorism. So many security systems have provided police with essential leads in solving crimes, and will continue to do so in record time.” In sponsoring the bill, Sen. Golden echoed Hikind’s remarks, saying, “Surveillance cameras are an effective tool in reducing crime and protecting citizens. It is extremely important to utilize every crime fighting tool available to assist the NYPD in their investigations and quickly apprehend perpetrators. I encourage business and property owners to take advantage of this tax credit and install security cameras.” After the assault on Avenue M, a home surveillance camera captured the footage of the brutality, which was later turned into police and expedited the apprehension of the criminals responsible. “These cameras are helping tremendously and are so crucial to have,” Hikind said. “It makes all the sense in the world to provide homeowners and businesses with an incentive to install a security camera system.” Assemblyman Hikind’s proposed tax credit is just one of many efforts to increase surveillance camera use in the community. In years prior, Hikind collaborated with the MTA in successfully establishing CCTV surveillance cameras on train station platforms in his district, while also securing $1 million to install the Leiby Kletzky Security Initiative throughout Boro Park and Midwood. “I’m proud to have secured the funding for this initiative and hope to increase the amount of cameras we have,” Hikind said. “Surveillance cameras help make our community safer and expedite the investigation process. The more cameras we have, the safer we will be.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) joined Sen. Simcha Felder (D-Brooklyn), Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-Staten Island) and dozens of elected officials in signing on to state legislation that would block the City Council’s five-cent grocery bag fee. After just one day of circulation, the state-proposed bill has already garnered the support of over 20 elected officials, and is sure to rise exponentially. “It’s ridiculous that my fellow New Yorkers are continuing to be nickel and dimed,” said an outraged Hikind. “This motion to charge consumers a nickel for their grocery bags is an unfair tax on hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers.” Last week, the City Council voted in favor of a bill, 28-20, that would require certain retailers to collect a fee on each carryout bag, paper or plastic, beginning on Oct. 1. After much controversy behind the five-cent hike, Sen. Simcha Felder (D-Brooklyn) and Assemblyman Michael Cusick’s (D-Staten Island) then proposed a bill of their own that would protect New Yorkers from taxes or fees on the use of plastic bags, which was unanimously passed by the New York State Senate Standing Committee on Cities to the Senate floor yesterday. “This is just one more thing New Yorkers have to worry about,” Hikind continued. “Grocery shopping is an extreme burden, and this bill that passed through the City Council would only add to that burden. As consumers, we now have to worry about making sure we have our reusable bags handy every time we go to the supermarket, or we’re hit with a charge. It’s absolutely ridiculous and must be stopped.” (YWN Desk – NYC)

Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) urged New Yorkers to rally fellow elected officials behind an effort to terminate a five-cent grocery bag fee that passed in the City Council on Thursday, 28-20. The legislation, which will take effect on Oct. 1, would require certain retailers to charge a fee for each carryout bag, paper or plastic. “This motion to charge consumers a nickel for their grocery bags is an unfair tax on hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers,” Assemblyman Hikind said. “Not only will this fee further complicate our lives even more, it will also tremendously burden the store owners.” Supporters of the bill insisted the five-cent fee would encourage shoppers to use reusable bags, thus reducing the number of plastic bags New Yorkers throw away annually and argued that the five-cent charge wouldn’t be considered a tax since it would go directly to the store owner. “If it looks like a tax, smells like a tax and acts as a tax, then it’s a tax,” Hikind argued. “This is just one more thing New Yorkers have to worry about. Grocery shopping, especially in New York City, can be hectic, and this will add to the chaos. As customers, we will now have to worry about having our reusable bags handy every time we go to the supermarket. It’s absolutely ridiculous.” Sen. Simcha Felder (D- Brooklyn) and Assemblyman Michael Cusick (D-State Island) recently proposed legislation that would prevent New York City from imposing this fee. “I strongly urge my fellow New Yorkers to reach out to their elected officials and voice their concerns regarding the bag tax proposal,” Hikind said. Mayor Bill de Blasio will be holding a public hearing on Tuesday, May 10 at 12 p.m. to offer those who oppose the legislation an opportunity to voice their concerns. “Let’s stand up together against this tax on the consumer and additional burden on supermarket owners,” he said. (YWN Desk – NYC)

While New York City’s Parks Department continues planting more trees as part of former Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s MillionTreesNYC beautification project, Assemblyman Dov Hikind (D-Brooklyn) objected to NYC’s motion to force newly planted trees on homeowners. “I’m very much in favor of New York City’s beautification efforts, which will prove to be environmental and aesthetically beneficial,” said Assemblyman Dov Hikind said. “Homeowners should have a right to refuse a tree planting in front of their home. Forcing homeowners against their will to adopt a tree is wrong.” After receiving numerous calls from residents within the district voicing their objection to having a tree planted in front of their home, Hikind wrote a letter to Commissioner of the NYC Department of Parks and Recreation Mitchel Silver urging him to change NYC policy and allow homeowners the right of refusal. “I love and support the planting of trees, however they require maintenance, which falls upon the property owner,” Hikind said. “Watering, the cleaning of falling leaves, tree limbs and debris as well as potential liability issues due to damaged and lifted sidewalks are now the responsibility of the homeowner. In addition, a planted tree may result in a narrowed sidewalk. The fact that people were not aware that trees were being planted until their sidewalk was marked and cut is simply wrong.” Prior to the MillionTreesNYC program, trees were planted on a request basis with an option for the homeowner to decline a tree planting. Residents who wanted a tree were able to request a free planting, which was filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. “This should continue to be the practice today, where we only plant trees for those who request them in front of their home,” Assemblyman Hikind said. (YWN Desk – NYC)