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Vol. 36 No. 9 CCELEBRATINGELEBRATING TTHEHE HHEROESEROES SEPTEMBER 2021 The IDG hosted Driver WWHOHO KKEPTEPT NNYCYC MMOVINGOVING Appreciation Day for FHV drivers and their IINN AA PPANDEMICANDEMIC families in August.

Ira’s Insights: SEPT 2021 • COVID-19 VACCINE MANDATES • GOV. CUOMO RESIGNS IN SHAME • CONGESTION PRICING UPDATE • SAVE AND REIMAGINE THE BQE NYC Vaccine $65M Taxi Adams Vows Expert Explains • CENTRAL DISPATCH WAV TRIPS • MORE WORKERS’ Mandates Relief Fund to Cut Why to Get COMPENSATION FRAUD Get Serious Stalls Red Tape, Crime a Vaccine • HOSTING IDG’S DRIVER APPRECIATION DAY 2 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 3 Attention NYC FHV Drivers:

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Editorial ...... 4 BLACK CAR NEWS Ira’s Insights — By Ira Goldstein ...... 6 714 Crestbrook Avenue • Cherry Hill, N.J. 08003 Tel: 800-723-9119 • Local: 856-751-0656 • Fax: 856-751-0657 News ...... 7 Email: [email protected] • Web: www.blackcarnews.com Features...... 12

Street Stories — By RH Stovall, Jr ...... 18 Editor/Publisher: Copyright AUGUST 2021 © Neil Weiss Attorney’s Corner — By Laurence I. Cohen...... 20 The Black Car News is published monthly Adv. Sales Mgr./Art & Design: on the first Tuesday of each month except IATR Outlook — By Matthew W. Daus ...... 22 Michele Norton holidays. All inquires should be directed Direct line: 856.262.2368 by mail to the above address. The Black Defensive Driving ...... 26 [email protected] Car News is not liable for any typograph-

ical errors in its advertisements. The Contributing Writers: views expressed in the articles of con- Industry News ...... 28 Matthew W. Daus, Esq. Ira Goldstein tributing columnists are solely those of the Taxi & FHV Relief Stands ...... 30 Bertram Merling author and not necessarily those of the IN THIS ISSUE RH Stovall, Jr. Black Car News. Classifieds...... 33 As Always, a Chauffeur’s #1 ProfitableSEPTEMBERDECEMBER 20202021 •• BLACKBLACKCompany CARCAR NEWSNEWS •• 55 AALPINELPINE LLIMOUSINEIMOUSINE SSERVICEERVICE TheThe leadingleading choicechoice inin thethe corporatecorporate worldworld

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site, allowing drivers and their families to sign up for free or low-cost health in- surance, vision, dental and telemedicine benefits. Together with The New York Back Car Fund (NYBCF), the IDG has been one of the leading voices for the health and safety of FHV drivers and their pas- sengers, both before and during the Coro- navirus pandemic. In the early months of the pandemic, they worked quickly with partners to secure and distribute safety kits to more than ten thousand drivers, amid a worldwide shortage of masks and sanitizer. They also successfully advo- cated for a ban on pool rides, a mask mandate for riders and drivers, compen- sation for sick and high-risk drivers, and COVID-19 safety training through a partnership with the NYU School of Global Public Health. At Black Car News, we would like to commend NYC’s FHV drivers for their courage and hard work during these troubled times… as well as the IDG, the NYBCF and their partners for their ef- forts to help keep our city’s heroes safe and healthy! SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 7

IRA’S INSIGHTS BY IRA J. GOLDSTEIN Hello to all! As we enter the final few announced plans hope to extend the life of Central Dispatch Exception model is work- weeks of summer, I wish I could say that the BQE for at least another 20 years. I en- ing. COVID-19 is behind us. Unfortunately, Au- courage you to visit the link above and read I’d also like to give an update on our on- gust has made it clear that we are not out about everything the plan entails. going efforts to root out Workers’ Compen- of the woods. This month, New York City For now, please be aware that as of Au- sation fraud. In July, another driver was became the first U.S. city to require proof gust 30th, the DOT will be reducing the criminally convicted in yet another case of of at least one dose of the COVID-19 vac- BQE from three lanes to two between At- Workers’ Compensation fraud. This driver cine for a range of indoor businesses includ- lantic Avenue and the Brooklyn Bridge. had fraudulently received benefits for lost ing restaurants, gyms and performances. This part of the plan is aimed at reducing wages between March 2017 and March While the city hasn’t yet reestablished the weight on the roadway and promoting 2019, by claiming they were unable to work an indoor mask mandate, other cities such safety by creating dedicated entry and exit when in fact, they continued to work. In as Los Angeles and San Francisco have – lanes, as well as an adequate shoulder this case, the driver was charged with and it wouldn’t be at all surprising if New lane. In the same breath though, the DOT Grand Larceny in the Third Degree, Insur- York City follows suit. Speaking of masks, warned that the new traffic pattern will re- ance Fraud in the Third Degree, and Fal- don’t forget that the Federal mask man- sult in substantial delays. That, at least, sifying Business Records in the First date has not changed, and it supersedes we know is true. Degree. They negotiated a plea agreement city and state rules. That means that you Another topic I want to touch on is the which will ultimately knock the felony and your passengers must be wearing a report released earlier this year by the TLC grand larceny charge down to a misde- mask at all times while on a trip! that evaluated the For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) meanor petit larceny charge. In order for Amazingly, this new vaccine require- industry’s progress with the wait-time re- that to happen though, the driver must ful- ment wasn’t the biggest news of the month. quirements for providing wheelchair-acces- fill the terms of the plea agreement, which No, that title is reserved for our former sible vehicle (WAV) trips. As you may includes paying The Fund restitution of Governor Andrew Cuomo, who resigned know, back in 2017, the TLC wanted to im- nearly $8,300. Either way, the driver will after months of holding onto power in the pose a ridiculous and arbitrary rule that carry a criminal record with them for the face of numerous allegations of sexual ha- would have required 25% of all FHV trips rest of their life. The lesson is clear, Work- rassment. On August 23rd, Lieutenant to be made in a wheelchair-accessible vehi- ers’ Compensation fraud is simply not Governor Kathy Hochul became our new cle (WAV) by the middle of 2023. In an un- worth it. Governor, and moments later, the calls precedented coalition, I rallied the Black On a lighter note, The Black Car Fund came for her to fast-track congestion pric- Car Assistance Corporation (BCAC) as we was excited to be one of the sponsors for the ing. united with liveries and the High-Volume Independent Drivers Guild’s Driver Appre- This month, the MTA announced a 16- FHVs and filed multiple lawsuits to stop ciation Day, which took place on August month timeline to complete the required this rule. 7th. Hundreds and hundreds of drivers federal environmental assessment. Mayor If it had passed, there’s no question it came out to Forest Park in Queens for a de Blasio called the timetable “ridiculous” would have devastated our industry. The family-friendly fun day of games, activities, and dozens of environmental, transit and rule that was eventually passed, which es- and food. good government groups have called on tablished the Central Dispatch Exception, We had the opportunity to speak with Governor Hochul to put congestion pricing changed the requirement from a flat % of dozens of our Covered Drivers about the at the top of her agenda. trips, to instead requiring the accessible ve- many benefits they are eligible for and Considering the environmental assess- hicle dispatchers to meet wait time require- handed out lots of promotional materials, ment, the fact that the Traffic Mobility Re- ments. Specifically, 80% of WAV requests including hand sanitizing wristbands and view Board has yet to be fully appointed, need to be fulfilled in 15 minutes or less COVID-19 Vaccination card holders. We and the time it will take to install the in- and 90% to be fulfilled within 30 minutes. also spoke with many about the benefits of frastructure, it seems like we’re still close The report released this spring found our S.A.F.E. iD telematics program and to two years away, at best. However, with that in June, July, August and September several drivers even won free dashboard the support the plan has, including from 2020, Uber met both those minimums, Lyft cameras from our S.A.F.E. iD partners at both Governor Hochul and soon-to-be met both requirements in two of the four Nexar and Vuro. Mayor Adams, it has never been more cer- months and Via only had one month in Don’t forget, our Covered Drivers are tain that congestion pricing is coming. which it met both requirements. Frankly, still eligible to receive these free dashboard Speaking of congestion, at the begin- this proves that the lawsuits filed were cor- cameras, as well as on-board devices, ning of August Mayor de Blasio and the De- rect and that the TLC had tried a massive through our S.A.F.E. iD program. partment of Transportation unveiled their overreach in their initial attempt to impose Inventory is limited and orders are plan to “save and reimagine the Brooklyn- the blanket 25% requirement. quickly filling up so don’t wait… visit Queens Expressway”. If you’ve ever driven There’s no question that this mandate www.nybcf.org/safeid to opt-in now! on the BQE then you probably believe the would have been financially catastrophic. BQE is beyond saving but nevertheless, the Time has shown that we were right and the Until next time!

Ira J. Goldstein is the Executive Director of the New York Black Car Fund, Chief Operating Officer of the Black Car Assistance Corp. (BCAC), and Treasurer of the Coalition of Transportation Associations (COTA).

WHEN NEWS BREAKS, WE ARE ON IT FOR YOU 8 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 NEWS NYC GOV. AGENCIES, CORPS, VENUES GET SERIOUS ABOUT VACCINES

As of August, about 75% of New York- Aug. pushed back its return-to-office date ers had received at least one dose of a • Union Square Hospitality said the until at least Oct. Covid-19 vaccine, but as the delta variant company’s full-service restaurants in • Facebook, which has two large offices surges across the city, state and nation, the city – including the Union Square on the West Side, is requiring vacci- government agencies, venues and other Cafe and Gramercy Tavern – would nations for people returning to its of- businesses have become more aggressive require staff and indoor-dining guests fices. about helping to get more shots in arms. to show proof of vaccination. • Uber delayed its return to the office They know full well the last thing NYC • All Broadway theatergoers must show until October, with a requirement needs is another devastating shutdown. proof of vaccination. Performers, that workers be vaccinated. Some businesses are curbing admis- backstage crew and theater staff also • Netflix has mandated vaccines for all sion to unvaccinated guests, while others must be vaccinated. Attendees must U.S. workers. are requiring employees to be vaccinated show proof they have been fully vac- • New York City’s Public Hotel, near before they can return to work. NYC cinated entering a theater. Even with the Bowery on Manhattan’s Lower often leads the nation on important this proof, masks will be mandatory, East Side, insists all guests, visitors trends, and it is likely that companies except when eating or drinking in cer- and staff be vaccinated. It was the and government agencies across the na- tain areas. The theaters will make ex- city’s first hotel to mandate vaccines. tion will follow suit. emptions for children under 12 or The following is a list of some of the those who cannot be vaccinated be- Riding the wave of vaccine mandates, businesses, organizations and agencies cause of medical conditions or reli- Mayor Bill de Blasio announced on Aug. that have instituted vaccine measures, as gious beliefs, but they must show 3 that New Yorkers will have to show of Aug. proof of vaccination at gyms, bars, • The Durst Organization has said restaurants and live perform- it will fire employees who are still ances, as part of the city’s Keys to unvaccinated after Labor Day. NYC Pass program. Enforcement • The Related Cos. are requiring is scheduled to begin Sept. 13. all workers to have received at To prove they’re vaccinated, least their first vaccine shot by New Yorkers can use the NYC Aug. 31 or they will be termi- Covid Safe app or the state’s Excel- nated. sior Pass, or they can show their • All the NYC’s roughly 340,000 vaccination card. In late July, de workers must be vaccinated by Blasio said the city would give mid-September or face weekly $100 incentives to New Yorkers “swab up the nose” Covid-19 who get vaccinated. tests. The mandate includes Both the Governor and Mayor teachers and police officers. Bill de Blasio ordered state and • All state workers must be vacci- city workers to get vaccinated or nated by Labor Day or face face getting their noses poked with weekly testing. proof of a negative Covid-19 test. a Covid-19 test, but it has been the city’s • Port Authority and Metropolitan • New York–Presbyterian announced business leaders that took the reins and Transportation Authority workers not its staff must have received a first began to speak with a single voice on vac- vaccinated by Labor Day will be dose no later than Sept. 1. cines. It has otherwise been a struggle for tested weekly. • Northwell Health began implement- elected leaders. • BlackRock said only vaccinated work- ing a “vaccine or weekly testing” pol- Across New York state, patient-facing ers can return to the office. icy on Aug. 16. All new hires, students state hospital workers will be required to • Morgan Stanley began requiring em- and volunteers must be fully vacci- be vaccinated by Labor Day, with no op- ployees to be vaccinated before com- nated. tion for weekly testing, unless they re- ing back to the office, as of July 12. • Mount Sinai said it will require any ceive a qualified medical or religious • Citigroup told employees returning to unvaccinated staff, faculty or trainees exemption. offices in the New York area and to undergo weekly Covid-19 testing President Joe Biden has also said that other big U.S. cities they’ll need to be starting Sept. 1. unvaccinated federal employees and con- vaccinated against Covid-19. The • NYC Health + Hospitals workers at tractors must wear masks at work, re- company said it expects employees to the city’s public health system must main socially distanced and get tested begin returning to offices at least two be vaccinated or be subject to weekly regularly. days per week starting Sept. 13. testing. • The Equinox Group said it would re- • Google’s 10,000 New York employees, Sources: Crain’s New York Business, quire employees and members to mostly on Manhattan’s West Side, Crain’s New York Business, show proof of vaccination starting in must get vaccinated. The company Crain’s New York Business SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 9 Welcome To

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Such filing does not constitute approval by the Department of Law of New York State. 10 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 NEWS ADAMS PROMISES TO CUT RED TAPE AND CRIME AS MAYOR Small-business leaders are highly Adams’ voting strength in her borough re- bodes well for a possible administration, supportive of the Eric Adams administra- flected the time he took to speak with which he said will need to focus on the tion’s promises to focus on out-of-the-way business owners about how his adminis- nearly 220,000 small businesses across business corridors, improve communica- tration would improve their bottom line. the city. This assessment of Adams’ au- tions with City Hall, and initiate policies He prioritized using local chambers of thenticity is echoed by constituents in to cut through red tape. During his cam- commerce as conduits to the Department central Brooklyn who have seen him as a paign, Adams promised to institute a of Small Businesses Services and other constant presence in their business dis- three-level warning system for small- city agencies, Sorin said. tricts for much of the past decade. business fines, provide a two-year com- At the Brooklyn Chamber of Com- Small-business owners said they ex- mercial rent tax break for businesses that merce, CEO/President Randy Peers em- pect Adams to honor the commitments he can demonstrate hardship, and imple- phasized that he expects Adams to promoted throughout the primary. It is ment an online portal to process paper- prioritize forgotten pockets of the city also Adams’ background as a former New work and create a one-stop shop for small after his campaign vocalized the impor- York Police Department captain that is businesses and city agencies. tance of merchant associations and expected to alleviate stress from mom- The proposed MyCity portal – which business-improvement districts as on-the- and-pop shops across the city. Adams defined as “311 for the digital age” ground organizing entities for store own- “This is Economics 101,” Peers said. – is seen as a particular innovation to im- ers. Peers said most commercial corridors “If crime is out of control, it will impact prove the way small-business owners in- in Brooklyn don’t have either merchant businesses, and he gets that. It’s probably teract with city agencies, in everything associations or BIDs, and the Covid-19 his most important platform when it from the permitting process to service de- pandemic revealed that to be a blind spot comes to support from the small-business liveries. in city planning. community.” At the Bronx Chamber of Commerce, To Peers, Adams’ deep understanding CEO and President Lisa Sorin said of Brooklyn’s neighborhoods and shops Source: Crain’s New York Business NYC CABBIE FINDS MAN HIT BY STRAY BULLET FHV DRIVER FARHAN PASSENGER IS DEAD, WAITING FOR CAB NEAR ZAHID KILLED IN TRAGIC NOT DRUNK PENN STATION ACCIDENT IN JULY A taxi driver in Queens made a grue- Police were still searching for a sus- A 32-year-old For-Hire Vehicle (FHV) some discovery on the morning of August pect in late August that they say shot an driver, Farhan Zahid of Bay Shore, was 17, when his passenger turned out to be innocent bystander outside Penn Station among five people who died in a head-on dead, rather than drunk, police said. on August 23. The assailant missed his collision in the Village of Quogue on July An unidentified person hailed the cab intended target, instead striking a man in 24. One passenger survived. and directed the driver to take the victim his 50s who was waiting for a cab, around According to Quogue Village Police, a to an address on Avery Avenue in Flush- 5:45pm, near 31st Street and 7th Avenue Nissan Maxima, driven by Justin ing. He claimed the woman was inebri- by the entrance to NJ Transit. Mendez, age 22, of Brookhaven, was west- ated. Authorities said the intended target bound on Montauk Highway, near the in- When the driver arrived at the desti- stayed at the scene and explained what tersection of Quogue Street East, when it nation, a friend came out to retrieve the happened. He told police he was waiting for crossed the center line into the oncoming woman from vehicle and noticed she was his wife inside Penn Station when he got lane and crashed head-on into Mr. Zahid’s unconscious, authorities said. The taxi into an argument with the gunman over Toyota Prius, at around 11:20pm. then transported the woman and her food. The dispute escalated when the gun- Zahid’s passengers included four friend to New York-Presbyterian Hospi- man followed him outside and opened fire. friends, who were reportedly headed to a tal, where she was pronounced dead at Taxi dispatcher George Harris was dance. A 22-year-old Garden City woman 5:49am, according to police. helping a customer get into a cab when he was the sole survivor of the crash. She Police were still investigating the in- saw the victim fall to the ground. He im- was rushed to the hospital in critical con- cident in late August. mediately retrieved an officer, who raced dition. Source: New York Post over and applied a tourniquet to the vic- Police said speed may have been a tim’s leg. The victim was taken to Belle- contributing factor to the fatal accident. vue Hospital in serious condition but was As of August, the accident was still under expected to be OK. investigation by authorities. ELDERLY WOMAN Source: The Legal Advocate CRITICALLY INJURED BY FHV Source: CBS New York A Black Infiniti For-Hire Vehicle MAN STABBED WAITING FOR CAB IN THE BRONX struck an elderly woman, critically A man was stabbed on Hegeman Av- fore running off. The victim was taken to wounding her, as she attempted to cross enue near Bristol Street, on the night of a local hospital. He was expected to make Amsterdam Ave. at W. 74th St. in the August 21, holding a box of pizza while a full recovery, police say. The attacker crosswalk at about 8:10pm, on the night waiting for the Livery vehicle he had just was not known to the victim. of August 17, police said. booked. Video of the crime can be viewed Anyone with information regarding The driver remained on the scene as by clicking here. this incident is asked to call the NYPD’s medics took the 90-year-old victim to In the footage, the attacker, who is Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577- Mount Sinai Morningside Hospital in crit- wearing a blue sweatsuit, can be seen TIPS. All calls are strictly confidential. ical condition. lunging at the 25-year-old victim and Source: New York Daily News stabbing him in the face and abdomen be- Source: News 10 The Bronx SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 11 NEWS EV ADVOCATES IN NY CHEER DOZENS OF VEHICLES SEIZED FOR BIDEN’S LATEST EXECUTIVE ORDER FAKE PAPER LICENSE PLATES IN

Electric vehicle advocates in New York are supporting BRONX CRACKDOWN the Biden administration’s policy intended to speed-up a Deputy sheriffs seized dozens of vehicles with bogus transition away from gas-burning cars and trucks. paper license plates on Bronx streets during an overnight “It’s huge,” said Barry Carr, Executive Director of crackdown in Aug. Authorities swept the 45th Precinct in Clean Communities of CNY. “A lot of it isn’t just more ef- Co-Op City and the bordering 47th Precinct in the north ficient vehicles… the level of interest is [also] due to cli- Bronx between midnight and 6 a.m. – netting 76 illicit ve- mate change.” hicles, New York City Sheriff Joseph Fucito said. President Biden announced new regulations that The officials used license-plate-reader technology to mandate higher fuel efficiency for vehicles and require identify some of the offending vehicles, according to half of all vehicles sold by 2030 to be hybrid or fully elec- Fucito. Two of the rogue vehicles were tractor-trailers, tric. Experts say this will increase public acceptance, and others included a bucket truck. partly because automakers will be able to bring down In a July Brooklyn sting, sheriffs seized 43 vehicles prices. While it’s inefficient to manufacture 5,000 cars a with bogus paper plates from the confines of the 69th, year, it’s very efficient to manufacture 50,000, said Carr. 63rd and 67th Precincts – which include neighborhoods A typical EV has about one-third of the parts of an in- like Canarsie, Flatbush and Mill Basin. The Aug ternal combustion car. overnight operation brings the total number of bogus- To help promote EV usage, the Biden administration plate vehicles seized by the sheriff’s office to 196. More wants to add 500,000 new charging stations. In New York than 100 people have been slapped with criminal and civil State, “They are starting to require EV infrastructure in offenses related to displaying fake plates, according to the building code. So, if you’re building a commercial of- Fucito. fice building or a residential house, you have to put in cir- “Having fraudulent plates on your vehicle opens up cuit breaker and power requirements to add EV the motorist to a slew of vehicle and traffic and parking chargers,” noted Carr. offenses, as well as potential tax offenses for not paying Such policies – and a wide agreement by auto makers commercial motor-vehicle tax or motor-vehicle-tax usage,” – will help the transition to EVs, which the administra- Fucito said. He added that the owners will be held respon- tion and environmentalist say is necessary to scale back sible for any outstanding judgments for unpaid speed, global warming emissions. camera, and parking-violation summonses, as well as Source: WAER 88.3 criminal sanctions for their actions. Source: The New York Post The Center New York www.thecenternewyork.com

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All around New York City, patrons ing to Google Trends. Interest in- that enjoy a nice cocktail and meal at creased by nearly five times compared the end of a workday began reemerg- to the summer of 2020. ing in July, giving restaurants and “Some of our local restaurants at watering holes a much-needed boost. 4:30 or 5 on a Friday are quite Younger patrons tired of Zoom “happy crowded now, looking like they did hours” are leading the comeback of pre-Covid,” added Rob Byrnes, presi- what is now being called “social hour,” dent of the Midtown East Partnership. helping out some of the trendier and “People want to see other people hardest hit parts of the city, like Mid- again.” town and the Financial District. Trendier spots downtown that at- “There’s a happy hour economic tract younger patrons, such as rooftop ecosystem that exists,” explained An- bar Mr. Purple, have seen larger drew Rigie, executive director of the crowds than Midtown bars and New York City Hospitality Alliance. restaurants. “It’s such an important part of restau- “It’s really the younger demo- rants and bars.” graphic in their 20s or 30s that have Summer’s warmer weather has been clamoring to get back out,” said helped motivate bar customers. Even Byrnes. “A lot of people who fre- some restaurants that previously shut quented Midtown locations don’t have down their bar areas are serving to come into the city because they’re drinks again. Local searches for happy not back in their offices.” hours in the city are spiking, accord- Source: Crain’s New York Business PLAN TO EXTEND LIFE OF BQE 20 YEARS ANNOUNCED In Aug, the de Blasio administration the life of the BQE another 20 years. eries. His plan includes creating “inter- announced a plan to fix the 70-year-old The Mayor said he wants to get trucks modal distribution centers” in all five bor- Brooklyn-Queens Expressway… or at off the road by enforcing capacity limits. oughs, “where things can be off-loaded into least extend its life by a couple decades. He says much of the traffic could be di- electric carts and small electric vehicles The four-part plan focuses on preserving verted to trains and cargo ferries. for the last mile delivery.” the structure; executing immediate and “We can use this opportunity to re- The last major proposal for the BQE ongoing maintenance; expanding monitor- think how people, goods, and services included six years of construction and a ing and enforcement; and developing a move around our city,” de Blasio said. temporary road on the Brooklyn Heights long-term, community-based vision for the NYC Transportation Commissioner Promenade. corridor. It also calls for decreasing traffic, Henry Gutman added there is no reason instead of increasing capacity to extend to have large vehicles making small deliv- Source: ABC 7

UPSIDE DOWN? MO. CAB COMPANY OWNER SAYS HE WON’T PICK UP VACCINATED OR MASKED PASSENGERS Charlie Bullington, the owner of Mis- “We don’t allow any type of masks in wearing a mask before he dispatches a souri cab company Yo Transportation our vehicles,” Bullington said. “We are taxi. Bullington’s 16-year-old company Services, said he is refusing to pick up any very against the vaccine and don’t allow services St, Louis and other nearby cities. passengers who wear masks or have re- people in our vehicle that did get the vac- He said he’s proud that Missouri is among ceived a COVID vaccine. He issued the cine.” the top three states with the lowest vac- “edict” in Aug, even as new cases surged Bullington said he first verifies if pas- cination rates in the country. in the state. sengers have had the vaccine and are Source: New York Post

“LIKE” FOR BREAKING BLACK CAR NEWS NEWS! SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 13 14 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 FEATURES CRITICAL CARE NURSE EXPLAINS WHY GETTING VACCINATED IS THE RIGHT CHOICE Sandra Lindsay, a critical care nurse much since day one. Unfortunately, the portant, too. Not just hospital employers, at Northwell Health’s Long Island Jewish speed of the internet means just one incor- but we also need community and faith Medical Center, became the first Ameri- rect piece of information travels rapidly. leaders to come together. can to receive a dose of a Covid-19 vac- cine on Dec. 14. By July, 73% of hospital What role do medical workers play workers in New York state had com- in fighting community hesitancy? pleted their Covid vaccine doses; in New People look up to us for advice and York City, the rate was 70%, and on guidance. But if we don’t believe in the Long Island, 76%. science, how can we expect our fellow While NY is well ahead of most of community to? I have been on local the US in getting shots into arms, Lind- Caribbean channels on the radio, shar- say, who was the grand marshal at ing my experiences with the vaccine. NYC’s “Hometown Heroes” ticker-tape People have come to me with questions, parade on July 7, says the industry can and I’ve been able to appeal to them do better and offers her personal in- with facts. sights on vaccinations, why they are so important and addresses common mis- How can we address the pandemic’s conceptions and fears. strain on mental health? Engaging in activities that increase Why are there health care workers physical health will also help mental who still haven’t gotten vaccinated? If efforts to educate medical workers health. At the peak of the pandemic, when People often ask, “How can health care about the benefits haven’t worked, my stress levels were the highest, I found workers be hesitant when our profession what else will? running to be very helpful. Having a sup- is rooted in sciences?” But health care Just because they haven’t worked port system of family, friends and commu- workers are human too; they have the doesn’t mean they will never work, espe- nity is healthy. Attention to spiritual same concerns as everyday people. Ideas cially as new data keeps coming out. And health is also beneficial, whether that is that “holistic” or “natural” defenses pro- with the threat of the newest variant, attending church services or meditation. tect enough against Covid or fears about those studies will eventually win them the vaccine’s side-effects have not changed over. Who’s delivering the message is im- Source: Crain’s New York Business

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Yoga offers countless benefits to your Yoga Anytime: belly, an app with classes that focus on physical and mental health but attending Best for themed classes “Air” (connecting breath to movement), in-person classes isn’t always possible – so This company has thousands of yoga “Earth” (grounding through postures), or finding high-quality online yoga classes classes of various styles and levels, “Fire” (creating heat through flows). This can really help. Sometimes life gets busy grouped by themes (or “shows”). If you’re breakdown is great for someone new to and rushing to class can feel stressful, looking to stay more consistent, the sea- yoga or who just wants a deeper under- which negates the point of yoga. For those son/episode format may motivate you to standing of what it can do for your health. new to yoga, learning the techniques in a follow a program that builds on itself. The Cost: $9.99 a month. group setting can be intimidating. Thank- company offers a 30-day yoga challenge, a fully, there’s a wide variety of online six-week beginner yoga course, and many GLO: classes, making it much easier to find more. Yoga Anytime is $18 per month. Best for variety of recorded and live classes something that works for you and your Glo has thousands of videos to choose lifestyle. Gaia: from, including 16 styles of yoga, like be- Best for delving into yogic philosophy ginner vinyasa, prenatal, and kundalini. A What are the benefits of online yoga The Gaia Channel is known for pre- friend can also join you during partner classes? senting well-known teachers, researchers, classes. Glo also has an extensive live • You’ll stay consistent. When you can and lecturers from around the globe. When schedule. Members pay $18 a month. roll out your mat and just click play, you subscribe to Gaia, you’re not just get- fitting yoga into your life becomes ting on-demand yoga classes, you’re get- Daily Burn: much easier, according to Carleen ting access to various video series and Best for personalizing your practice Shankle, a yoga instructor who documentaries that delve into the theory If you like to try things before you fully teaches classes on Zoom at Heal commit, Daily Burn offers 30 Haus. The benefits of yoga – days free before you pay from increased flexibility to re- $10/month. There are 30 differ- duced stress – really take off ent categories to choose from, or when you develop a consistent you can personalize your prac- routine. With online yoga, “stu- tice by answering a question- dents can take as many classes naire that helps you find as they want, and at times that classes that fit your needs and work for them,” says Shankle. time availability. • It’s less expensive. If you want to take multiple classes a DoYogaWithMe: week, paying $100-$200 a Best for learning advanced month for in-person classes poses may put a strain on your DoYogaWithMe is great for budget. Online yoga can save more experienced yogis looking you money, says Kira Sloane, to master challenging poses. It from Yoga Anytime. For online has a section called “Peak services, you can get unlimited Poses” that feature instructors classes for as low as $10 a guiding you on how to improve month. various poses and offers a vari- • Finding a good instructor is ety of classes, from beginner to easier. Because there is such advanced. DoYogaWithMe of- an array of yoga offerings on the inter- behind various forms. If you want to blend fers a free 2-month trial; it then costs net, you get to see the diversity of in- your practice with study, the Gaia Chan- $10/month. structors that are available with nel starts at $11.99 a month. different areas of expertise. Once you YogaWorks At Home: find your favorite yogis, there’s a good Heal Haus: Best for a large offering of live streams chance you’ll want to stick with the Best for live Zoom online community YogaWorks At Home has on-demand, practice. This Brooklyn-based studio offers live pre-recorded yoga classes, but also offers • You can have a friend join. Some online yoga classes, meditations, sound 30+ live classes per day – for those who online yoga sites allow you to stream healing sessions, and workshops for $30 enjoy the pace, concentration and commit- classes with a buddy. So, if you want per month. Heal Haus is a unique, vibrant ment of “being present” for 10-60 minutes someone to show up with you for ac- community, with teachers that are great at a time. The live option price is $49 a countability, many sites make it easy at welcoming beginners and guiding stu- month, but you can also choose their on- no matter where they are. dents to find postures that fit their bodies. demand-only videos for $19 per month. • You can be yourself. Whether you You can take their open-level vinyasa feel intimidated by in-person classes, classes, which tend to be more active and Yoga International: haven’t found a welcoming commu- challenging movement-wise, or wind Best for diversity of teachers nity, or simply just want to be alone, things down with restorative or yin yoga. Yoga International features over 500 online classes can help create a safe To further relieve stress, you can try one teachers of different shapes, sizes, ages, space to practice without fear of judg- of their meditation sessions, which are and cultural backgrounds. The teachers ment, says Shankle. You can also wear often lined up right after yoga classes. are diverse in their areas of expertise, too. whatever you find most comfortable. You’ll find yoga therapy, athlete recovery, The Underbelly: Yoga Tune Up, and more. For $20 a Ready to give online yoga a try? The Best for cultivating self-acceptance month, you gain access to courses, pod- following are some exceptional classes, Jessamyn Stanley is the author of casts, partner classes, and other content. tested by professionals. Every Body Yoga and co-founder of Under- Source: Prevention SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 17 18 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 FEATURES WILL NYC REQUIRE TLC DRIVERS TO BE VACCINATED IN ORDER TO WORK? With new NYC rules requiring proof of vaccination before dining in or going to the gym, it appears highly likely that NYC TLC drivers will need to be vaccinated or show a negative COVID test

BY DAWOOD MIAN Back in February, just when the Khosrowshahi believes the company’s vaccine rollout was beginning for NYC office workers should be vaccinated TLC drivers, I wrote a piece entitled ahead of returning to the office. While NYC Can Now Vaccinate TLC Drivers. he also believes Uber drivers and pas- How Could This Play Out? In that sengers should be vaccinated, he ac- piece I discussed two dynamics that I knowledges that the company cannot thought could play out: practically enforce such rules. He be- 1. Uber and Lyft would encourage lieves any vaccination requirements vaccination and penalize those can only come from governments. who don’t get vaccinated “It would only be fair to require 2. The NYC Taxi & Limousine Com- vaccines for both riders and driver… mission (TLC) would create rules We’ve got over 100 million riders and related to public safety and unvac- drivers constantly moving around to- cinated drivers gether on a monthly basis and we think that the push, which we com- I concluded the article in February pletely support, should be for the gov- as follows. ernment to get people vaccinated, Let’s see how it all plays out, but I Photo Credit: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) everyone vaccinated as quickly as pos- believe we are entering a world where sible so we can get back to life…To put a COVID vaccine “passport” will be re- forcement (NYC Health Department...not that responsibility, that kind of decision- quired to do many jobs, attend events and NYPD) will start from September 13th. In making power, on a company, I don’t think interact in many public spaces. Given the addition, given the recent announcement is right. I think these mandates if they’re NYC for-hire transportation industry is a that all MTA / Port Authority workers will pushed should be pushed by local or federal sector that involves a variety of close in-per- be required to get a COVID vaccine or be governments, and that’s really the direction son interactions, I can’t see how the indus- tested weekly starting Labor Day, it seems that we’re going with” try can avoid some sort of new increasingly likely that the NYC Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi requirements related to the vaccine. TLC is set to announce driver and passenger vaccine guidance soon. Whether it is legal to require NYC TLC Will NYC TLC Drivers Be Forced To https://youtu.be/a1xv4n6sfnU drivers to take the vaccine or not seems Get Vaccinated? Is That Legal? The new NYC vaccine rules will likely like a gray area of the law that may face With the recent news that NYC will re- face legal challenges, which could delay challenges. My guess - NYC TLC drivers quire individuals to show proof of vaccina- the City’s ability to officially enforce them. will not be able to perform trips without tion (i.e., COVID passport) in order to dine However, with rising Delta variant cases, showing proof of vaccination OR a negative indoors, go to the gym and attend perform- pushback to the new rules may be muted. COVID test that drivers would bear the ances, it almost seems inevitable that Outside of City government, including cost of. some sort of for-hire transportation guid- the TLC, another potential source of vac- What do you think? Do you think ance is imminent. The new NYC rules cine guidance could come from rideshare NYC TLC drivers will be forced to take went into effect on August 16th and en- giants Uber and Lyft. Uber CEO Dara the vaccine?

Dawood Mian is the Founder & CEO of AutoMarketplace. He covers the NYC for-hire transportation industry and related news. Search AutoMarketplace for cars, parts, tires, technicians, body shops, reviews, jobs & more.

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No appointment or car necessary, but if you do have a 2011 or newer model car please call Patricio to see if your vehicle is acceptable. Come see and talk to us. Find out how you can become part of our family. Where you can exceed your expectations. For further information call Patricio Martinez (718) 482-8585 Extension 3233. 20 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 STREET STORIES TOURS OF DUTY BY RH STOVALL, JR.

One of my favorite rides is what I call that the ladies became happier and more a “Tour of Duty.” Rather than referencing intoxicated, as the wine tour progressed a perilous military action, this kind of tour throughout the afternoon. involves beer breweries, distilleries, mu- The six ladies – who were celebrating seums, salons, wineries, and vineyards. the 40th birthday of one of them in the In early July, I met five guys near group – must have each had a whopping Newburgh, NY, and drove them around hangover the next morning. They were upstate New York to tour beer breweries very generous… they gave me a $200 tip! and a whiskey distillery. They were all As I write this article, I’m parked on friends celebrating one guy’s birthday and 53rd Street waiting for five passengers – his impending wedding. (I jokingly offered who are on a Museum Tour – to exit the him my condolences and congratulations.) Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). The The tour started at 11:00am and fin- grandparents are trying to “culturalize” ished at 6:00pm. All of them had a fun their grand kids. Good Luck! time and they tipped well. To conclude, I enjoy my various Tours Later in July, I brought four ladies of Duty. I get to watch my passengers into Manhattan for a Spa Tour. They were enjoy their libations, whether it is beer, getting ready for a wedding the next day whiskey or wine. and this was a “Girl’s Day Out” before the Big Day. They had their nails and hair done as well that afternoon. They all were all very coherent. By the time I seemed to enjoy it. dropped them off at 17:45, I couldn’t un- I’m mid-August, I brought six ladies derstand a word they were saying because RH Stovall, Jr., is a Senior Executive Chauf- on a tour to various wineries in upstate the wine had taken effect! feur, Trainer & Mentor for Royal Coachman Worldwide (Denville, NJ) and Leros Point to New York, again near Newburgh, NY. I enjoyed their company; they were all Point (Valhalla, NY). He can be reached at When I picked them up at 9:15am, they having a fine old time. I found it funny [email protected] or call / text him at 908.358.4172. FOR SALE 53 FOR-HIRE VEHICLE (FHV) LICENSES

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BY BERTRAM MERLING • LOSS CONTROL COORDINATOR, HEREFORD INSURANCE COMPANY

This month, we focus on how your ing, improvement classes, vision adjust- at twilight or later. Others realize major mood and age can affect the way you ments, physical rehabilitation, cognitive- improvements after having cataract or drive. skills enhancement and tougher licensing other eye surgery. Some researchers be- laws. The following looks at some of what lieve that more diligent instruction of How Mood Affects Safety researchers, insurers, not-for-profit asso- senior drivers actually can help them use • Lateness. Being late on a call can ciations, health-care organizations, gov- their vision more effectively, even if they lead to unsafe driving and increase ernment agencies and seniors are doing can’t restore their eyes physically. the risk of accidents. Always allow in each area. “A common problem with seniors is extra time for traffic and give passen- Driving Improvement Classes. that they fail to scan appropriately by gers an ETA you can keep. Older drivers are finding more ways to moving their eyes completely through the • Upset. Leave personal problems at gauge their own effectiveness behind the driving environment,” said psychology home. Focus on safe driving and cus- wheel. The American Automobile Associ- professor, Richard Backs. Seniors may tomer service. ation Foundation has an online self-rat- spend too long focusing on changing • Rage. Do not get excited or angry ing form for drivers 55 and older. Several lanes, for example, risking an accident by with other motorists’ aggressions. other organizations are making similar not shifting their attention to traffic ap- • Impulsivity. Do not act on impulses, resources available via the internet. proaching in their rearview mirror. Some always scan the entire area before More seniors also are taking it upon seniors invest in the handful of devices proceeding. themselves to improve their driving by that have proven to improve senior road • Daydreaming: Limit your day- attending self-help classes. The American vision, such as special eyeglasses that re- dreaming to when you are parked. Association of Retired Persons (AARP) of- duce glare and have a telescopic function. Good defensive driving requires fers a driver safety program at sites Physical Rehabilitation. The eld- 100% concentration at all times. around the country and online. The eight- erly can actually improve their driving • Focus: Avoid getting locked into hour class is for drivers 50 and older. skills and help stave off decline through radio stations which may cause you Often, participants can take their certifi- various types of exercise and physical to have so much fun you lose your cate of completion and show it to their in- therapy. Research by the Yale University concentration. surance company for a 5-10% discount on School of Medicine found that even a their premiums, according to Jack Stege- moderate regimen of physical therapy How to Improve man, an AARP instructor in Michigan. specifically designed for the task – only Seniors’ Driving Skills Vision Adjustments. The declining 15 minutes of exercises a day – could sig- (By Dale Buss, Contributor) vision of seniors is the most difficult as- nificantly improve flexibility, coordina- The dangers posed by senior drivers pect of driving to mitigate. “Ninety to tion and speed of movement of – combined with the difficulty of figuring 95% of the information you get in driving extremities in drivers 70 years old and out when they have reached the point of is visual information,” explains Dr. Philip older afflicted with various limitations, posing a risk – are spurring unprece- Hessburg, president of the Detroit Insti- such as arthritis. The success of the ther- dented efforts to come up with solutions. tute of Ophthalmology. Yet many vision- apy is projected to improve driving per- These initiatives to improve seniors’ driv- impaired older people take a big swipe at formance by at least an 8% lower crash ing skills include more self-limited driv- the problem simply by declining to drive occurrence over two years.

Bertram Merling is the Loss Control Coordinator for Hereford Insurance Company. He welcomes your questions and comments, and can be reached at 718.361.9191 ext. 7235, or via email at [email protected] SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 23

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“LIKE” BLACK CAR NEWS FOR BREAKING NEWS. 24 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 IATR OUTLOOK

EVS IN THE CITY: BY MATTHEW W. DAUS, ESQ. Are FHV Diamonds Forever?

NYC, and its Taxi & Limousine Com- ago, a decision it now reviews every six 2021. As of this writing, the TLC has not mission (TLC), which was a leader in sus- months in February and August. In keep- announced an August meeting. tainable transportation in the 2000s by ing the pause in effect, the TLC continued It appears the TLC’s policy is now to promoting alternative fueled vehicles, re- the exemption for WAVs and added BEVs allow EVs, but only if new vehicles are not cently removed a major incentive for the to the exemption list in August 2019. added to the road. Despite the significant use of Electric Vehicles (EVs). Innovative Under the TLC’s own rules, every six reduction in the number of FHV permits entrepreneur and EV believer, Elon Musk, months, the agency reviews whether addi- since even before the pandemic happened, CEO of Tesla, in response to this move tional FHV licenses should be issued and and the claims of more infrastructure tweeted: “??”; drawing national attention reports the results of that review and the (when there is little to no infrastructure to the latest TLC vote. number of FHV licenses to be issued in the for fast charging EVs in NYC), the TLC’s This article will cover the most recent succeeding six months. As recently as Feb- current priority is to allow vehicle owners actions of the TLC and its impact on the ruary 2021, the TLC decided to continue to buy EVs and add them to the road, as industry and the environment, chart the the BEV exemption for another six months long as they are replacing another vehicle TLC’s history of clean air taxicabs and For- “[i]n an effort to continue to increase the already in service. Hire Vehicles (FHVs), compare what has percentage of WAVs and BEVs in the FHV and is happening in the taxi and for-hire fleet.” The NYC TLC’s History of Clean space with EVs, and explore the path for- In an effort to increase BEVs in the Air Taxicabs vs. Other U.S. Cities ward in NYC with the new Mayoral Ad- taxi fleet, in May 2021, the TLC an- According to the NYC Department of ministration slated to start on January 1, nounced a pilot program to test whether Transportation (DOT), transportation is 2022. these vehicles can be used safely and effi- responsible for almost 30% of NYC’s green- ciently as yellow taxis (the “BEV Pilot”). house gas emissions (GHGs), with most of The Most Recent Actions of the TLC TLC previously conducted a pilot program these emissions coming from passenger On June 22, 2021, the TLC abruptly for BEV taxis between April 2013 and cars. BEVs offer the benefits of reduced changed its policy on electric FHVs. In a March 2015, which it deemed unsuccessful Greenhouse Gas Emissions, which is a controversial 5-1 vote, the Commission for- due to its limited scope and sample size major goal for New York City. By 2050, the mally removed the exemption for battery and lack of charging infrastructure. How- City aims to have 20% of new vehicle reg- electric vehicles (BEVs) from the FHV-li- ever, according to the TLC, “[w]ith the istrations be for EVs, and to reduce GHG censing cap, citing the agency’s fear that number of BEVs and charging stations in- emissions by 80%. the number of applications under the BEV creasing throughout the City, the TLC be- The City and the TLC have been at- exemption would increase. lieves it is time to expand the use of tempting to alleviate greenhouse gas emis- Before the vote, TLC Chair Aloysee additional BEVs as taxis in NYC.” sions though low-emissions and electric Heredia Jarmoszuk said, “What we will The BEV Pilot is necessary because the vehicles for years. In 2006, New York City not allow is the opportunity for another TLC has strict rules regarding vehicles introduced legislation mandating that at corporation – venture capitalists or other- that may be used as taxis. Under the pilot, least 9% of new medallions for yellow taxis wise – to flood our streets with additional the TLC will allow medallion owners to be set aside for hybrid or compressed nat- cars.” apply to have a BEV certified for use as a ural gas vehicles, and incentivized the pur- There are opinions on both sides of the yellow taxi, as long as the vehicle meets chase of low-emission taxis by extending issue, with some who promote clean air not certain conditions. The pilot has not yet the allowed period of models classified as seeing the situation as an all or nothing started, though the TLC is accepting ap- “clean air” by the United States Environ- proposition, which is how the TLC pre- plications now. mental Protection Agency. sented it. The TLC did, however, leave the So, why the abrupt change for FHVs? When I served as TLC Chair, I helped door open for existing FHV permit holders EVs are becoming more affordable, battery develop the transportation segment of to convert their vehicles to EVs (as long as range is increasing, and more models are PlaNYC, former Mayor Michael an existing licensed vehicle is being re- hitting the market. According to the TLC, Bloomberg’s signature sustainability ini- placed). “[a]s charging infrastructure is con- tiative. A big part of that plan was to en- The TLC added the BEV exemption in structed throughout the City and as BEVs sure that more clean air vehicles, August 2019 – the first time the TLC was become more commercially available, TLC including taxicabs and FHVs, were placed able to exercise its FHV capping authority, anticipates the number of applications for on the road – and at the time, the predom- after the City banned the agency from is- a new FHV license under the BEV exemp- inant alternative fueled vehicle was the suing new licenses the year before. In Au- tion will likely increase exponentially.” In hybrid-electric vehicle. gust 2018, New York City enacted Local other words, the TLC was only providing To implement this citywide policy, in Law 147, imposing a one-year cap on the the BEV exemption for FHVs while no one 2007, the TLC adopted a rule that would issuance of new FHV licenses, with limited was really using it. have required all new taxis coming into exceptions for wheelchair accessible vehi- Under the TLC’s new rules, in deter- service achieve a fuel-efficiency city rating cles (WAVs) and certain lease-to-own situ- mining the types of vehicles to which the of 25 miles per gallon or higher, rising to ations. Local Law 147 also delegated to the Commission will issue new FHV licenses, 30 mpg by Oct. 1, 2009. The rule would TLC the authority to decide the number of the agency will now consider “the avail- have resulted in a virtually all-hybrid fleet FHV licenses the agency would issue after ability and demand for BEVs” and “avail- by 2012. However, a federal judge found the one year passed, and any exemptions ability of BEV charging infrastructure,” the TLC’s rules were pre-empted under the agency deemed appropriate. among other factors. Assuming the TLC federal law, which reserve regulation of The TLC has maintained the FHV cap sticks to its six-month review cycle, the fuel economy and emissions standards to since it was first implemented three years FHV cap is scheduled for review in August federal agencies. The United States Court SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 25

of Appeals for the Second Circuit later up- Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator (LACI) brings together the U.S Department of En- held that ruling, and the United States and the City of Santa Monica launched ergy’s Energy Efficient Mobility Systems Supreme Court declined to consider an ap- and deployed a first-in-the-nation Zero program and major industry stakeholders peal by the city. Emissions Delivery Zone within a one- with the cities of Seattle, New York, Den- Following New York City’s lead, many square mile voluntary zone by partnering ver, and Portland to test different electric cities including Los Angeles, Las Vegas, with tech companies, delivery companies shared mobility interventions. Boston and Washington D.C. moved to cre- and community organizations. The project began in early 2018, and ate initiatives for greener taxis and hy- the cities implemented their programs in brids. However, at every turn the cities What Transportation Companies phases over the course of three years. The faced the same obstacle as New York City, Are Doing Now with EVs in City of Seattle, Washington, plans to the ruling by the United States Court of NYC & Other U.S. Cities achieve 30% EV adoption by 2030. To that Appeals for the Second Circuit. In April, Revel – the company known end, the city tested whether the deploy- Cities proposed initiatives that pro- for its electric mopeds – announced plans ment of charging infrastructure at priori- vided incentives to encourage the use of to launch an all-electric ride-hail service in tized locations, along with supportive hybrid taxis or proposed regulations and Manhattan and to build the necessary outreach and engagement activities, would legislation to mandate the transition to hy- charging infrastructure. The company em- increase the use of EVs in shared mobility brid taxicabs. Boston created the Clean Air ploys its drivers, providing them benefits services. Cab program, which promoted hybrid taxis not offered to independent contractors. Under new legislation by Colorado's as more fuel-efficient vehicles with lower The start-up received support from the governor, rideshare rental programs qual- costs and incorporated incentives such as Biden administration. ify for an EV tax credit at the same level airport privileges and grant awards to At a ribbon cutting ceremony at the as consumers, which is up to $5,000 per ve- those who purchased hybrid cabs. How- company’s electric vehicle charging hub, hicle. Building on that, the city of Denver, ever, this program was unsuccessful as Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm Colorado is providing EVs directly to ride- drivers were not voluntarily switching to praised Revel, saying, “What you are doing hailing drivers and supply charging infra- hybrid taxis, as a result, Boston decided to to create jobs here, what you are doing to structure. As a part of the EV Shared mandate the switch to hybrid requiring heal the planet here, is so important.” Mobility Project, the City and County of the entire fleet to convert to hybrid vehi- The Biden administration has ambi- Denver will deploy EVs in ride-sharing cles by 2015. In 2009, the mandate was tious plans to reduce emissions and install services program which does not currently struck down on the basis that it was ex- the first-ever national network of EV offer any EVs in the Denver Metro region pressly preempted by federal law. charging stations. In early August, Biden and install DC fast charging stations to ex- Even without the clean fuel mandate signed an executive order that sets a new clusively support these EVs. for taxis, a 2019 study by researchers at target to make half of all new vehicles sold As part of the EV Shared Mobility proj- the Columbia University Mailman School zero-emissions vehicles – including battery ect, Portland, Oregon sought to promote of Public Health and Drexel University electric, plug-in hybrid electric, or fuel cell EV use by transportation network com- found that the Clean Air Taxi rules are electric vehicles - by2030. pany (TNC) drivers coupled with access to successful in cutting emissions and reduc- Under the recently passed Infrastruc- free, unlimited charging. The city part- ing air pollution. According to the study’s ture Bill, $5 billion will be allocated to re- nered with Uber to pilot a program that findings, between 2009 and 2015, the fuel place the yellow school bus fleet with low systemically encourages drivers to use an efficiency of the fleet of 13,500 yellow taxis to zero-emission buses, and $7.5 billion EV. They also created a downtown DC fast more than doubled, leading to estimated will be used to roll out EV charging sta- charging depot with free unlimited access declines in air pollution emissions. tions, with the goal of reaching 500,000 for TNC EV drivers. In February 2020, Mayor Bill de Blasio charging stations along highways and in signed an executive order that sets the underserved communities by 2030. The Path Forward in NYC City on a path to electrifying its entire mu- In May, Gravity announced the ex- with the New Mayoral nicipal vehicle fleet by 2040, with 20% of pected debut of the first-ever zero-emis- Administration on January 1, 2022 the city fleet being electric by 2025. Cur- sion, fleet-based taxi service, bringing In March 2020, I hosted and moder- rently, the City has the largest EV fleet in Tesla Model Y BEVs to New York City as ated a Transportation Talk with now Dem- the U.S. (approximately 30,000 vehicles), yellow taxicabs. These zero-emission taxis ocratic Mayoral Nominee Eric Adams, the and the largest EV charging network in will be available to riders at the same cost presumed next Mayor, who commented New York State, which it is looking to and rates set for all taxicabs by TLC; and that the availability of battery charging grow. are available to riders via street-hail or on- stations is currently a barrier for the wide- The City is making a $10 billion invest- demand booking applications. Each of spread deployment of EVs in the city. ment to install fast charging stations (with Gravity’s zero-emission taxicabs will come Adams said that, if elected, he would ex- a full charge in 30 minutes) citywide equipped with Wi-Fi, artificial intelligence, pand charging infrastructure to further in- through PlugNYC, a demonstration proj- night vision enabled surround view cam- centivize drivers to go electric. ect to build a comprehensive network of eras, and interactive screens with built in Additionally, he told the New York Times publicly accessible Level 2 Chargers and media applications. that electric buses are an investment that Level 3 DC fast chargers in all five bor- In order to develop this BEV pilot pro- will save the city money on fuel and main- oughs. In partnership with Con Edison, gram, Gravity is working with Con Edison tenance. While campaigning, Adams said the City began installing 120 Level 2 to identify areas capable of installing he would push the MTA to add more elec- charging ports at curbside locations across state-of-the-art BEV charging infrastruc- tric buses to its fleet to reduce pollution, the city in June 2021. ture. Gravity charging spaces will also be saying that an electric bus fleet would be Despite NYC’s plans, when it comes to available for public use, in hopes of making “an investment that will save the city EVs and setting goals, the city is behind BEVs accessible to everyone. The goal is to money on fuel and maintenance.” many of its peers. In California, Los Ange- create sustainable transportation that is Separate from EVs, Adams has plans les is aiming to solidify its position as the focused on safety, health and passenger to reduce the City’s municipal fleet. In his modern-day Detroit of EVs and currently experience. “100 Steps Forward” plan, Adams says he has 43% of California’s massive EV indus- Across the U.S., cities are experiment- would implement a municipal car share try. Los Angeles’s Green New Deal aims to ing with ways to increase the use of zero plan to reduce the municipal fleet, which increase EVs in the city to 25% of vehicles emission vehicles as taxis and rideshare will reduce congestion in the central busi- by 2025, 80% by 2035, and 100% by 2050. services. The EV Shared Mobility project ness districts where many of NYC agencies

Continued on page 26 26 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021

Continued from page 25 are located. In 2016, Adams proposed a commonly referred to as a “diamond” due exponential growth. So maybe the refer- similar plan for City agencies in downtown to the old shape of the permit – cannot be ence to FHV licenses as “diamonds” is a Brooklyn. sold or transferred. However, if a license is misplaced term. While diamonds are more One idea worth thinking about for the held by a business entity, then that busi- valuable and everlasting when compared incoming Mayoral Administration is the ness may change ownership, and the new to gold, the same does not hold true for replication of the Federal government’s owner would retain the FHV license or li- FHV permits. They are likely not forever, procurement of TNCs to provide employee censes. The FHV cap effectively created a as the uncertainty surrounding TLC poli- transport, to reduce the size of the NYC mini “medallion-like system” for corporate cies should be a lesson learned for those in- fleet – but instead of TNCs, use only FHVs FHV licenses. Before the FHV cap, there vesting in FHV corporations that own and Taxis that are EVs! In addition to car was no need to buy or sell an FHV license permits. sharing, non-emergency workers for all – anyone who wanted one would simply Anything could happen at a moment’s city agencies could turn in their cars, and apply and pay the annual fee. The same is notice, and any tweak to the FHV cap instead hail or call a taxi or FHV as part not true for taxi medallions, of which there could send the value of such entities up or of a subsidized program. is only a limited number. Medallions can down. The removal of the EV exemption Adams has many ideas about trans- be sold, transferred, and assigned, and fre- did just that – but the new Mayor could re- portation policies for his administration. A quently are. verse course completely and reinstate it. compilation is available in the Transporta- Ever since the FHV cap, there has been Anything could happen, so be careful out tion Voter Guide & NYC Mayoral Candi- a marketplace for the sale of FHV licenses, there! date Policy Report released in June 2021 and prices have surged since the TLC re- by the University Transportation Research moved the BEV exemption. Currently, a Center (UTRC) at the City College of New one-plate corporation has an asking price York of the City University of New York: of $15,500. This is just for the plate – no http://www.utrc2.org/publications/2021- car is included. A review of offerings avail- Professor Matthew W. Daus, Esq. is President, Mayoral-Candidates-Forum. What re- able online, found an average sales price International Association of Transportation Reg- mains to be seen is what Adams will do of $9,179.10 in June and $9,788.94 in July ulators (http://iatr.global/); Transportation about the TLC’s EV policies, and whether (adjusted for offerings with vehicles and Technology Chair, City University of New York, Transportation Research Center at The City Col- he will reverse course or go in a completely plates). If the cap is ever lifted, the market lege of New York (http://www.utrc2.org/); and different direction. for FHV licenses could disappear. Partner and Chairman, Windels Marx Trans- While taxi medallions had outper- portation Practice Group Are FHV Diamonds Forever? formed even “gold” as an asset in the past, (http://windelsmarx.com). He can be reached at Under the City rules, FHV licenses – its value was tarnished by Uber and Lyft’s [email protected] or 212.237.1106. SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 27 Join Our Team at Vital Transportation Inc. VITAL LOOKING FOR Base PROFESSIONAL License #B00789 DRIVERS WITH LATE MODEL CARS

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CALL Visit Our Convenient Location at: 718-472-2500 41-24 38th Street 718-472-2500Ext. 3022 Ext.Long 3010 Island City, NY 11101 28 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 INDUSTRY NEWS EXCELSIOR PASS PLUS MAKES PROOF OF VACCINATION EASIER IN NY In August, New York state announced called VCI. seamless. the launch of Excelsior Pass Plus, a pro- Excelsior Pass Plus users can securely Excelsior Pass Plus supports the safe gram designed to expand travel and com- upload their verified COVID-19 vaccina- and secure return of tourism and busi- merce opportunities for fully vaccinated tion credentials and travel to participat- ness travel and provides a Pass option residents. The expanded “proof-of-vacci- ing countries around the world. New that holds the same level of information nation” program enables compatibility Yorkers will be able to display their Ex- and validity as a CDC Vaccination Card, with New York State’s Excelsior Pass celsior Pass Plus at hundreds of busi- with greater security than a physical platform, which has generated 3 million nesses and locations that require proof of card. More than 50 countries globally are passes and provides digital proof of vacci- vaccination, as well as when traveling to allowing U.S. travelers entry with proof nation or a negative test result. The entities where SMART Health Cards are of COVID-19 vaccination. highly secure, globally recognized accepted – making interstate and inter- For more info., visit epass.ny.gov. SMART Health Cards Framework was national travel and commerce experi- developed by an international consortium ences safer, contact-less, and more Source: WABC PFIZER COVID-19 VACCINE GETS FULL FDA APPROVAL The U.S. Food and Drug Administra- vaccine was 91% effective in preventing “While millions of people have already tion (FDA) granted full approval of the Covid-19. Hundreds of millions of doses of safely received Covid-19 vaccines, we rec- two-dose Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vac- Pfizer’s vaccine have been administered ognize that for some, the FDA approval of cine in August for those age 16 and older. in the U.S. since December 2020, when it a vaccine may now instill additional con- The Pfizer vaccine and other brands had received emergency-use authorization fidence to get vaccinated.” previously been available under “emer- from the FDA. The vaccine will now be marketed gency-use authorization,” which provides “The public can be very confident that under the name Comirnaty. It will con- access to medical products during public this vaccine meets the high standards for tinue to be available to those ages 12 to health emergencies. safety, effectiveness and manufacturing 15 years old under emergency-use author- The FDA’s approval is based on quality the FDA requires,” said Acting ization, the FDA said. months of clinical data that found the FDA Commissioner, Dr. Janet Woodcock. Source: Crain’s New York Business NYC VENUES THAT VIOLATE VACCINE MANDATE COULD BE HIT WITH $5,000 FINE Restaurants, bars and indoor venues them understand the plan. Those who do not wish to show proof of may face up to $5,000 in fines if they don’t Venues must hang a sign communi- vaccination can enter a venue if they need require patrons to show proof of vaccina- cating the vaccination requirement. to use the bathroom or make deliveries or tion, under an August executive order by The executive order defines a wide pickups, whether as a customer or ven- Mayor Bill de Blasio. All indoor venues range of indoor venues that must check dor. Restaurants that offer only takeout will have to check that everyone age 12 for vaccine passes – including movie the- (with no indoor seating) do not have to and up who enters their premises shows aters, casinos, indoor portions of botanical card. Venues can choose to enforce proof of vaccination, which must match gardens, adult entertainment spaces, stricter rules than the city’s require- the information on their official identifi- commercial event and party venues, mu- ments. cation document, which must also be seums, aquariums and zoos, sports are- The proof of vaccination is inclusive of shown. nas and indoor stadiums, convention foreign vaccines, as long as the official Enforcement is set to begin Sept. 13. centers and exhibition halls, bowling al- record is presented. A photo or hard copy Violations will incur penalties of at least leys, arcades, indoor play areas and bil- of any vaccination card is acceptable, as $1,000. That number will rise to at least liards halls, as well as any indoor part of are the state’s Excelsior Pass app or the $2,000 for a second violation and at least a restaurant, and all indoor gym and fit- NYC COVID Safe app. The executive $5,000 for a third. The city will send out ness settings, including pools, dance stu- order requires covered venues to comply inspectors from various agencies to check dios and hotel gyms. with future guidelines issued by the city compliance. Prior to that, the city sent out Certain spaces and actions have been to increase vaccination rates. 570 canvassers to all businesses to help left exempt, including outdoor dining. Source: Crain’s New York Business

“LIKE” BLACK CAR NEWS FOR BREAKING NEWS. SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 29

Taxi relief stands allow drivers to park their vehicles for up to one hour. This affords drivers the opportunity to leave their vehicles and take care of personal needs. Taxi relief stands should not be confused with taxi TAXI AND stands, which are locations where drivers can wait, in their cars, to pick up passengers. DOT is not responsible for regulating taxis. Taxis are regulated by the New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission. DOT regulates taxi relief stands. FOR-HIRE VEHICLE The type column indicates if the relief stand is for taxis alone, or for both taxis and For-Hire Vehicles (FHVs). Staten Island currently has no relief stands. The following information was found at www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/motorist/taxirelief.shtml (as of July 24, 2018). RELIEF STANDS We recommend checking back periodically, in the event changes are made to these lists.

MANHATTAN QUEENS Type Street ...... Cross Streets Type Street ...... Cross Streets Taxi/FHVs 10 Ave (east side) ...... W 26 St & W 28 St Type Street ...... Cross Streets Taxi/FHVs 11 Ave (east side) ...... W 45 St & W 46 St Taxi 31 St (west side) ...... 34 Ave & 35 Ave Taxi/FHVs 3 Ave (west side) ...... E 14 St & E 15 St Taxi 31 St (east side) ...... 37 Ave & 36 Ave Taxi/FHVs 3 Ave (west side) ...... E 15 St & E 14 St Taxi 31 St (east side) ...... 38 Ave & 37 Ave Taxi/FHVs 6 Ave (east side) ...... Thompson St & Grand St Taxi 34 St (west side) ...... 37 Ave & 38 Ave Taxi/FHVs 6 Ave (west side) ...... W 22 St & W 23 St Taxi/FHVs 35 St (south side) ...... Starr Ave & Bradley Ave Taxi/FHVs 6 Ave (west side) ...... W 38 St & W 39 St Taxi/FHVs 36 St (east side) ...... Skillman Ave & 43 Ave Taxi/FHVs 6 Ave (west side) ...... W 39 St & W 40 St Taxi 43 Ave (north side) ...... 35 St & 36 St Taxi/FHVs 6 Ave (west side) ...... W 55 St & W 56 St Taxi/FHVs 43 Ave (north side) ...... 11 St & 12 St Taxi/FHVs 8 Ave (west side) ...... W 46 St & W 47 St Taxi 44 Rd (south side) ...... 21 St & 11 St Taxi 9 Ave (east side) ...... W 30 St & W 29 St Taxi/FHVs 43 Ave (north side) ...... 36 St & 37 St Taxi Ave A (west side) ...... E 2 St & E. Houston St Taxi 49 St (west side) ...... Newtown Rd & Northern Blvd Taxi/FHVs Church St *E Rdway (west side) ...... Franklin St & White St Taxi/FHVs 45 Ave (south side) ...... Jackson Ave & 23 St Taxi/FHVs E 116 St (south side) ...... 3 Ave & 2 Ave Taxi/FHVs 47 Ave (south side) ...... 11 St & Vernon Blvd Taxi E 15 St (north side) ...... Irving Place & Union Square E Taxi 55 St (east side) ...... Queens Blvd & Roosevelt Ave Taxi E 23 St (north side) ...... 1 Ave & 2 Ave Taxi 64 St (west side) ...... 34 Ave & 35 Ave Taxi E 26 St (south side) ...... 3 Ave & 2 Ave Taxi/FHVs 61 St (east side) ...... Roosevelt Ave & 39 Ave Taxi E 27 St (south side) ...... Park Ave S & Madison Ave Taxi Queens Blvd (south side) ...... 50 St & 51 St Taxi E 28 St (north side) ...... Park Ave S & Lexington Ave Taxi/FHVs Pearson St (west side) ...... Jackson Ave & DeadEnd Taxi/FHVs E 29 St (south side) ...... Madison Ave & 5 Ave Taxi Queens Blvd (north side) ...... 55 St & 54 St Taxi E 32 St (north side) ...... Madison Ave & Park Ave S Taxi 37 Ave (north side) ...... 32 St & 31 St Taxi E 77 St (south side) ...... 1 Ave & 2 Ave Taxi/FHVs Van Dam St (west side) ...... Queens Blvd & Skillman Ave Taxi E 78 St (north side) ...... Lexington Ave & 3 Ave Taxi E 78 St (south side) ...... Lexington Ave & 3 Ave BRONX Taxi E 86 St (north side) ...... Henderson Pl & York Ave Type Street ...... Cross Streets Taxi E 87 St (south side) ...... 1 Ave & 2 Ave Taxi/FHVs E 233 St (south side) ...... Carpenter Ave & White Plains Rd Taxi/FHVs Grand St (north side) ...... Forsyth St & Chrystie St Taxi Park Ave (east side) ...... E 135 St & E 138 St Taxi/FHVs Madison Ave (west side) ...... E 26 St & E 27 St Taxi Park Ave (west side) ...... E 135 St & E 138 St Taxi/FHVs Maiden Ln (south side) ...... Front St & South St Taxi/FHVs Pelham Pkwy S (south side) . . .Wilson Ave & Eastchester Rd Taxi Park Row (east side) ...... Ann St & Beekman St Taxi/FHVs W 231 St (north side) ...... Albany Cr & Broadway Taxi/FHVs South St (west side) ...... Wall St & Gouverneur Ln Taxi/FHVs West Kingsbridge Rd (south side)Sedgwick Ave & Webb Ave Taxi University Pl (east side) ...... E 13 St & E 14 St Taxi W 33 St (north side) ...... 9 Ave & 10 Ave BROOKLYN Taxi W 39 St (south side) ...... 8 Ave & 9 Ave Type Street ...... Cross Streets Taxi W 41 St (north side) ...... 10 Ave & 11 Ave Taxi 4 Ave (west side) ...... 3 St & 6 St Taxi W 55 St (south side) ...... 10 Ave & 11 Ave Taxi/FHVs 4 Ave (east side) ...... Prospect Ave Taxi/FHVs W 181 St (south side) . .Pinehurst Ave & Fort Washington Ave Taxi N 6 St (north side) ...... Berry St & Wythe Ave Taxi/FHVs West St (east side) ...... Laight St & Vestry St Taxi New Utrecht Ave (north side) ...... 55 St & 13 Ave

30 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 INDUSTRY NEWS AFTER 6 MONTHS, NO MONEY FROM $65M TAXI RELIEF FUND HAS BEEN ALLOCATED A $65 million plan, designed to rescue rial difference for our drivers,” said lenders on Aug. 18 to announce that the struggling taxi owners by restructuring Bhairavi Desai, executive director of the agency was turning the $29,000 into one- the debt on their over-priced medallions, New York Taxi Workers Alliance. The time grant payments. Some lenders were has seemingly stalled. Established in lawyers “are looking at the fall to kick off still unsure whether it made sense to par- March, the rescue fund was supposed to disbursements. What have they done in ticipate, but others seemed more inter- help underwater taxi medallion owners five and a half months?” ested once the program’s structure had renegotiate their loans with private NYC’s Taxi & Limousine Commission changed. lenders – but after six months, none of (TLC), which is overseeing the relief pro- According to Matthew Daus, former the relief money had been allocated. gram and allocation of funds, said that it TLC chairman, people have been frus- Those eligible for the program were is still ironing out details of the program, trated by the fact that the structure of the supposed to get a $29,000 grant to help but that “release of the program funds is grant program lacked uniform guidelines. them refinance. underway.” “Having no standardized terms or Medallion owners and drivers – many The plan has been criticized by driv- guidelines seems very amorphous and in- of whom are immigrants with limited ers and lenders from the start, who ar- efficient for all involved,” Daus said. “The English-language skills – are also report- gued $29,000 was not enough of an less red tape, the better.” edly having trouble contacting the New individual commitment to induce lenders Meanwhile, taxi drivers continue to York Legal Assistance Group, the non- to lower loan balances that can reach as suffer as impatient lenders demand pay- profit whose attorneys were tasked by the high as a half-million dollars. ments. city to manage negotiations with lenders. TLC Chairwoman Aloysee Heredia The relief plan “hasn’t made a mate- Jarmoszuk held a call with skeptical Source: Crain’s New York Business

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CALL TODAY! 212-977-4590 SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 33 CLASSIFIEDS CLASSIFIED ADS ARE FREE TO THE DRIVERS IN OUR INDUSTRY! Want to sell your used vehicle? Want to sell a radio? If you are a • Or, you can mail it to Black Car News at: driver serving our industry, you can sell whatever you like (within 714 Crestbrook Avenue, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003. reason) on our Classifieds page for FREE – including old furni- In all instances, please include your name, phone number, ad- ture, used exercise equipment… whatever you like. dress, email address and the company you are affiliated with. There are three ways to submit your classified ad. • You can visit www.blackcarnews.com, click on the “Classi- All other ads – from bases and the vendors serving our industry fieds” link, enter your information directly into the boxes and – must be display ads. Deadline and pricing information for our hit send. (This is the preferred method.) display ads can be found in the “RATES/DATES” section of our • You can fax your classified ad to 856.751.0657. website, under “Rates and Schedule.”

DIAL CAR FRANCHISE TABLET FOR SALE: $20,000. Please Yellow Taxi Drivers Wanted! contact: [email protected]. GET A CAR - PRIUS V HYBRID 2016 MERCEDES E350 WITH TLC PLATES, ready to rent: $500 a 7 days 24/7 $400 • 6 days 24/7 $350 week. Plz contact Rashid: 718-666-5511. 5 days 24/7 $300 • 1st week ½ price 2015 FORD FUSION SE FOR SALE. Very low miles (14k), car runs Get car in Chelsea 24/7 $80 per day like brand new: $11,999 or best offer. VIN: 3FA6P0H72FR260860. Grey Exte- rior/Black Interior. The car is in Clifton, NJ. Please call Ed: (716) 666-0411. 2015 MKT, TLC-READY, MINT CONDITION, lease to own Call Today! 917.374.8538 $450/wk. Down payment required. Please call Chris: 718-962-4799. or email [email protected] 2015 MKT, TLC-READY, lease to own: $400/week. Please call Chris: 718-962-4799. 2013 CHRYSLER 300 FOR SALE. Black on black, 189,700 miles, SKYLINE RADIO FOR LEASE: $125 weekly. Please call: (973)866- factory-rebuilt engine, runs like new. Great condition: Only $3,350 or best 7797. offer. Interested? Call: 718-772-2462. ELITE RADIO FOR SALE: Only $10K. Please call: (917) 731-2923. 2013 GMC YUKON FOR RENT with TLC plates: $350/week. Long or short term is okay. Call Alex: 917-440-5454. UTOG RADIO FOR LEASE (no contract), flat 33% on your booking, the rest you take home! Quality work (like UBER Black), you need a Black 2019 CADILLAC XTS LUXURY FOR SALE OR LEASE with Sedan or SUV 2014 or newer! For info, please call: 347-440-3247. the option to buy: $21,900. Excellent condition, 70,655 miles, like new, NO ACCIDENTS, clean Carfax, 4 brand new tires, new battery, Just changed DIAL CAR FRANCHISE TABLET for $20,000. Please contact me at: the transmission fluid, oil. Call: 201-494-8041. (718) 740-1079. 2014 CHRYSLER 300 EX8 FOR SALE. Car has been profession- VITAL FRANCHISE RADIO FOR LEASE. Weekly rate is only $50. ally stretched 8 inches, 84K miles, one driver, black/black leather, properly If you are interested, please contact me at 917-215-7193 or email me at maintained: $7,800. Call Nick for more info: 786-728-5888. [email protected]. 2016 MERCEDES E350 4MATIC FOR RENT. Interested? Call 2016 CADILLAC ESCALADE ESV FOR SALE.Premium Pack- (917) 577-3592 or email [email protected]. age, black/black with 22” chrome rims, new tires, clean Carfax (no accidents). Never used/registered as a livery vehicle. Original owner. Warranty up 70K NYC TAXI MEDALLION FOR SALE: It’s a very lucky number, miles, only 46,850 miles: $51,850. Call Zack 201-290-3660. clean, unrestricted, no liens, no holds, not on any TLC list for conversion. Currently leased to broker. Papers easily transferred if you wish to continue. FOR SALE: 2015 CHEVY SUBURBAN, Black on Black with 96,000 Excellent opportunity for two partners. For more info, call Harvey at (516) accident-free miles. Clean Car Fax. $24,000 firm. Title in hand. Call: 347-384- 238-0066 or email [email protected]. 9201. 2016 CHRYSLER 200 FOR RENT. Excellent condition. Insurance 2009 LINCOLN TOWN CAR FOR SALE: 349K miles, black, in and maintenance included. Call Jose: (718) 812-4856. good shape (runs well). Asking $2,000 or B.O. Call Lewis (retired) at (516) 238-0327. RENTING OUT UTOG RADIO. Tired of driving for predator app com- panies? Drive for one of the oldest black car groups, UTOG. You can rent 2011 GMC YUKON XL SLT FOR SALE. Black, 153K upstate NY my radio for $200/month. Call: 516-868-7944. Please leave a message with highway miles, new trans, tires just one year old, aftermarket headlights, name, number. lighted running boards, 22-inch Escalade rims. Needs nothing, detailed and ready to work. Only $12,000. Call: 845-514-5304. PHONE OPERATOR SEEKS OVERNIGHT SHIFT. Highly expe- rienced, will travel locally (preferably Brooklyn /Queens), will work ONLY BELL RADIO FOR RENT. Bell is part of Executive Charge Transporta- Aleph system. Contact: [email protected] or 917-855-4290. tion Group, cost is $200/month. Please call or text Oscar at 908-477-8524. NY ONE RADIO FOR LEASE. Voucher work and plenty of line work DIAL CAR RADIO FOR LEASE: $50/week. $50/week. Please for serious $$. Net $1200+ per week! Just put in the hours. Best deal you call/text Mikhail: 917-755-5550 will find! Lease $15/per wk. Phone calls only: 917 816-7209. Ask for Irv. URGENT: SELLING 2016 LEXUS LX 570. Please directly contact DIAL CAR FRANCHISE TABLET FOR SALE. Asking $20,000. me by email for more info: [email protected]. Price: 22,000 Contact me at: [email protected]. Euro. WhatsApp No: +919139124955. 2007 LINCOLN TOWN CAR FOR SALE. Tan on tan, 190,000 2015 LINCOLN NAVIGATOR L FOR SALE: 31K miles, b/b, like miles, many new parts. Runs good, no major accidents, needs a little work: new, garage kept, bumper to bumper Lincoln warranty to 100k or 6yrs. Fully $2,500 or best offer. Best to reach me by email at [email protected] or loaded, rear entertainment, trailer hitch, 4+4 22inch wheels, reserve model: leave a message: (914) 636-0330. $45k. Must be seen and driven! Call Ari: 718-513-9428 or 561-291-2020.

“LIKE” BLACK CAR NEWS FOR BREAKING NEWS. 34 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021 SEPTEMBER 2021 • BLACK CAR NEWS • 35 36 • BLACK CAR NEWS • SEPTEMBER 2021