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Vol. 116 No. 51 | December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

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Trump’s Dangerous Retreat from Minority Health Research Urban Agenda by David R. Jones, President and CEO of the Community Service Society of New York - See page 5

2 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

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THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

A final bow: Mayor Eric Adams marks the end of his single term with talk of his wins

By ARIAMA C. LONG Amsterdam News Staff

It was as much a spectacle as it was a farewell.

A remix of Jay-Z’s “Izzo (H.O.V.A)” blasted through conference speakers with clips of outgoing Mayor Eric L. Adams speaking over the track, highlighting his uncanny ability to politick and grandstand as only he could.

The city’s second Black American mayor in its 400-year history walked down the grand staircase in the City Hall rotunda this week. One of the last times he will be able to do so this year with his title before a new administration takes over Jan.1.

Adams, 65, was leaving office with the exact same fanfare that he arrived with in Times Square at his inauguration in 2022. He maintained that despite his many windfalls and legal challenges over the course of four years, he and his remaining administration had been a success. However, Adams has increasingly expressed a weariness with public life and elected office, as well as a dislike for media pressure and scrutiny that will not be missed in the next stages of his life.

“For 40 years, I’ve been having people tell me about their leaks, their street repairs, their child not in school. For 40 years, I’ve fielded the problems of New Yorkers,” said Adams at his ethnic and community media roundtable on Monday, December 15. “And finally, I can smoke a cigar, drink a single malt scotch, and won’t have to worry about

Mayor Eric Adams hosts a roundtable discussion with ethnic and community media. City Hall. Monday, December 15, 2025. (Ed Reed/Mayoral Photography Office)

anyone nagging and bothering me. And I cannot wait until January 1st.”

Adams’s ‘working class rags-to-mayoral riches’ story, of course, didn’t start four years ago. Born in Brownsville, Brooklyn, Adams was then raised in South Jamaica, Queens. His mother worked hard to support him and his five siblings while cleaning houses. Adams has said often that his family faced uncertainty, unsure if they would find an eviction notice or food on the table when they came home. And, that much of the childcare unfairly fell on his older sister.

“Mommy was betrayed, she had to work three jobs. My older sister was betrayed. She

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See MAYOR ERIC ADAMS on page 36

Black man becomes 14th person to die in custody at Rikers Island as facility remains under scrutiny

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lost her whole childhood raising us. And I just took notes in my journal of things I wanted to fix. Things I wanted to get right,” said Adams about his childhood.

In 1975, Adams, then 15 years old, was beaten by police in a precinct basement for an alleged connection to gang activity, something that became a real turning point in his young life. Adams later served as an NYPD officer and supervisor, and an advocate who co-founded the organization 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care (100 Blacks). He was first elected to office as a senator for District 20 in Brooklyn from 2006 to 2013. After-

Rikers Island jail complex in Bronx borough of New York on Tuesday, May 7, 2024.

(AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)

By TANDY LAU Amsterdam News Staff Aramis Furse has become the 14th person to die in or immediately after NYC Department of Corrections (DOC) custody after he was found “unwell” in his Rikers Island cell.

The 32-year-old Black man died on December 7 shortly after paramedics transported him to Mount Sinai Queens Hospital.

“The Department is mourning the tragic

death of an individual in our custody,” said DOC Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie in a statement. “We extend our deepest condolences to his friends and family. The safety of everyone in our care is always our foremost concern, and we will fully investigate this tragedy.”

In a statement, public defense organizations the Legal Aid Society and Brooklyn Defender Services, which represented Furse, called for considering every alter-

native to incarcerating people in the city’s main jails as they continue deteriorating.

“Furse’s family, loved ones, and counsel deserve immediate access to all information surrounding his death,” the public defenders wrote. “Full transparency and accountability are essential, particularly given DOC’s repeated failure to keep families and attorneys informed or provide the answers they urgently need.”

The two organizations also pointed to recent recommendations made last month by the Board of Corrections (BOC), the independent watchdog overseeing city jails. They stem from a report examining five of the previous deaths this year and found instances involving unsecured cell doors, discoveries of drug paraphernalia, and staff failing to notify medical staff after observing the person in custody “unwell” before their death.

The BOC suggests the DOC “distribute memoranda and conduct updated trainings on providing prompt medical aid to an individual who is sick, impaired, unconscious, or injured” with a focus on obtaining medical assistance. Other recommendations include assigning more staff to the video monitoring unit and preventing cell window obstructions, which often See RIKERS ISLAND DEATHS on page 35

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 3

Hub built to help survivors of crime rebuild their lives opens in Brooklyn

By REUVEN BLAU THE CITY This story was originally published by THE CITY. For thousands of New Yorkers who survive shootings, assaults, or domestic violence, the hardest part often begins after the crime scene tape comes down or once they are discharged from the hospital.

To help them in that next phase, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams on Tuesday cut the ribbon on a new Downtown Brooklyn trauma recovery center aimed at assisting survivors navigate the psychological, legal, and financial wreckage that can linger long after an arrest is made.

The center will be run by the nonprofit Center for Community Alternatives and bankrolled with $1.2 million in discretionary funds from the City Council. It’s the fourth such site the Council has launched since Adams became speaker in 2022.

At a time when city leaders routinely frame public safety almost exclusively around policing and prosecution, Speaker Adams said the

expansion of trauma recovery centers reflects a broader understanding of how violence reverberates through communities.

“As speaker, I have prioritized the Council being an incubator of innovative programs and solutions that confront longstanding inequities while meeting the needs of our communities,” she said at the opening ceremony. “Here is no greater example than trauma recovery centers.”

The Brooklyn site will provide what providers describe as wraparound services for each client.

Staff at the trauma recovery centers — known as TRCs — begin with an individual case-management assessment. That often leads to helping people with basic needs such as finding safer or more stable housing, food, and seeking legal assistance or job training.

The centers are staffed by psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and community outreach staff. All of the services offered there are free of charge.

Built on a model developed in 2001 at the University of California, San Francisco, trauma recovery centers have been shown to improve economic stability, mental health, and social functioning among survivors, while also helping to interrupt cycles of violence and increas-

ing participation in the legal process.

All told, in 2024, New York City’s three trauma centers served 1,197 survivors, with 81% identifying as people of color, according to a new report by the National Alliance of Trauma Recovery Centers.

The majority of people were victims of domestic violence (40%), gun violence (21%), and physical assault (19%), the report noted.

“Crime victims, in Black communities, have historically not been recognized as victims,” Speaker Adams said. “Many survivors are blamed for their own victimization.”

Overall, trauma recovery center clients showed marked improvements, with roughly seven in 10 experiencing fewer PTSD symptoms and nearly two-thirds reporting reduced depression, the report concluded.

The idea is the brainchild of Dr. Alicia Boccellari, who worked as a psychologist in San Francisco in the 1990s while consulting on a medical surgical unit.

She said Dr. Bill Schecter, the hospital’s head of surgery, told her, “We can sew them up, but we can’t make them well.”

Patients who survived shootings, assaults, See SURVIVORS on page 25

Center for Community Alternatives opened a new trauma recovery center in Downtown Brooklyn. (Alex Krales/THE CITY)

The B.R.O. Experience takes a night in Brooklyn to recognize some Extraordinary Men

By ARIAMA C. LONG Amsterdam News Staff It was a night of sharp suits and elegant dresses under the Brooklyn Bridge as the Brothers Redefining Opportunity Experience Foundation (B.R.O. Experience) celebrated its 2025 Extraordinary Men Awards (EMAs), honoring brilliant men and women of color from within the community.

“When I think about my younger brothers and all the things that they have to experience, all the statistics they have to overcome, and all of the narratives that are painted on them before they can even define their own selves,” said the B.R.O. Experience Founder Barry Cooper, at the awards ceremony on Thursday, December 11, 2025. “Somewhere someone told them that they won’t graduate, or because of the communities they come from, they could only ever be dead or in jail. And all we do every single day in our work is defy that narrative.”

A former barber in Brooklyn’s BedfordStuyvesant neighborhood, Cooper grew his youth empowerment organization from a few simple events to a safe haven focused on serving young men of color from ages 8 to 24 in the borough’s most neglected area.

Cooper’s mantra is to address issues like mental health, violence, and educational gaps with emotional intelligence and educational opportunities. The B.R.O. Experience has unique programming, like Behind the Bars, a unique music-centered cognitive-behavioral group curriculum for middle and high schoolers, and the Daddy & Me project, which is a six-week fatherhood program that supports young dads.

During the event, community leaders and attendees poured into the DUMBO Lofts near Downtown Brooklyn as Asase Yaa Youth Ensemble performed for guests.

Honorees for the night included President & CEO of The Eagle Academy Foundation (EAF) Donald M. Ruff, Jr., who won the Henry Pete Pearson Impact Award; entrepreneur Tameek Floyd, who won the Resilient Visionary Award; Executive Director of the Social Justice Fund Gregg Bishop, who won the Boundary Breaker Award; mental health advocate Raul Espinoza, who won the ‘Be Well Bro’ Award; Dr. Dennis McKesey, who won the Educational Advocacy Award; Gentlemen’s Factory founder Jeff Lindor, who won the ‘I Hear You Bro’ Award, and Brooklyn Org President Dr. Jocelynne Rainey, who won the Extraordinary Community Partner Award.

See B.R.O. on page 25

The 2025 Extraordinary Men Awards hosted by the BRO Experience Foundation at the DUMBO Lofts in Brooklyn on Thursday, December 11, 2025. (Ariama C. Long photo)

4 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Is Black America reckoning with the end of hip-hop’s ‘Diddy Era’?

By JOSEPH WILLIAMS Word in Black It’s taken Netflix by storm, soaring past thousands of offerings to reach the streaming platform’s top spot just days after its release. It’s renewed interest in the East Coast-West Coast rap feud, the still-unsolved 1997 murder of Biggie, and the evidence against the man accused of gunning down Tupac a year earlier.

And chances are, if you’ve seen five Black people hanging out together in the last week or so, at least three of them were probably talking about “Sean Combs: The Reckoning.”

Since its release on Dec. 2, the Alex Stapleton-directed, 50 Cent-produced documentary tracing the remarkable rise and spectacular fall of the music mogul known as Diddy has hijacked conversations about and around Black culture.

Open Secrets, Unvarnished Truths “Thinking of all the Black Xennials coming to the horrible realization after the Puffy Doc that the entire culture of our childhoods was shaped by apex predators — Bill Cosby, R. Kelly, and Puff Daddy,” feminist scholar Dr. Brittney Cooper, a professor of women’s, gender, and sexuality studies and Africana studies at Rutgers University, wrote on Threads. “What a world.”

“Reminder,” @finalgirlboss wrote on Bluesky, ”that you do not need to watch a documentary to know that Sean Combs is a monster and prison is already too good for him.”

Author Mat Johnson, another Bluesky user, wrote, “Over the break, I will be drafting legislation to remove Sean Combs from the intro to Craig Mack’s ‘Flava In Ya Ear (Remix)’.”

Ouch.

One might not anticipate a four-hour documentary on a well-known public figure who, for decades, has been the subject of scandalous open secrets, conspiracy theories, and at least two other documentaries would make much of a splash. That seems especially true given that Combs was just sentenced to four years in prison in October — after a high-profile criminal investigation over the summer and a weeks-long trial that aired enough dirty laundry to fill the Grand Canyon.

Yet “Sean Combs: The Reckoning” hit Black America like a bombshell, with new, behind-the-scenes footage of Diddy yelling at his lawyers, plotting a post-trial strategy to rehab his image, and grousing that he needs a hot bath after interacting with commoners in Harlem. There’s disturbing testimony about Combs’ traumatic upbringing, unflinching discussions about sexual abuse he allegedly perpetrat-

Sean “Diddy” Combs launches his new fragrance, Sean John, at Macy’s Herald Square in New York (Diane Bondareff/AP Images for Macy’s)

ed, and strong insinuations he may have more than a little blood on his hands.

Still, by laying bare the allegations, identifying the enablers, and examining the ecosystem that allowed Combs to indulge every whim, the film tapped directly into Black America’s zeitgeist, forcing a communal reckoning with the stories we’ve accepted and the ones we’ve been too afraid to tell.

The documentary also landed hard in no small part because of 50, a.k.a. Curtis Jackson, Diddy’s long-time hip-hop nemesis. A rapper who never met a grudge he couldn’t carry, Jackson’s own problematic behavior, including purported abuse of women, makes him an imperfect messenger, to say the least. But he stands by the documentary, arguing he’s simply exposing hip-hop’s dark side — and how a very powerful, highly flawed man thrived in it.

like, ‘Were there decisions that were colored by certain things?’ and ‘Who got the benefit of the doubt?’”

Told in four hour-long episodes, the series chronicles how Combs amassed fortune and fame in the music industry, ruthlessly created an empire, and seemed to instigate the deadly East Coast-West Coast feud of the 1990s. It also traces how Combs bullied, abused, or exploited nearly everyone in his orbit: business partners and assistants, signed artists and proteges, romantic partners and objects of his desire.

“Allegations in the documentary range from drugging and raping unconscious victims and showing videos of the attacks on big screens at his parties to orchestrating the murders of Tupac Shakur and Christopher ‘Biggie’ Wallace,” Brooke Obie, a pop culture journalist, wrote for the “Contraband Camp” Substack. “EnDiddy’s Rise and Fall dearing moments in history, like Combs “It’s not personal,” Jackson said in an in- throwing his ‘best friend’ Wallace a lavish terview with Robin Roberts of ABC News’ funeral in Brooklyn, get revealed as lies “Good Morning America.” since Combs allegedly charged the fuStapleton concurred. She told Roberts neral costs to the Wallace estate to cover, that the goal of the film is “to let the au- then set up ‘freak-off’ celebrations every dience kind of come in to ask questions March 9 on Wallace’s death anniversary.”

Holes ‘Obvious and Glaring’ While the bad behavior of Bad Boy Entertainment’s founder is likely to reverberate in the community for a while, some pop culture consumers believe “Sean Combs: The Reckoning” misses a much bigger, more problematic target: how misogyny, sexism, and sexual abuse dominate hip-hop culture.

“People keep saying they want to hear from other people in Diddy’s life,” author and theologian Candice Marie Benbow wrote on Threads. “We don’t need any more stories to know he’s a horrible human being.”

Instead, she wrote, what’s needed is “a documentary that explores hip-hop, rape culture, the myth of tearing down Black men, and the disposability of Black girls and women. This doc was never going to be that because it would have implicated 50 [Cent], too. For as powerful as the doc is, the holes are obvious and glaring.”

Obie was more succinct.

“As a history of Diddy’s vile character, the docuseries is thorough,” she wrote.

“As a ‘reckoning’ for the pile of victims, bodies, and carnage in his wake, it’s woefully incomplete.”

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

A look at the fragrance MUSE experience Kimberly Waters created for Harlem

Black

New Yorker

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 5

THE URBAN AGENDA

By David R. Jones, Esq

Trump’s Dangerous Retreat from Minority Health Research In 2025, the federal government made a decision that will reverberate for generations: awarding sixty-one percent fewer competitive grants to the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD).

This drastic reduction is not a mere budgetary adjustment—it is a deliberate retreat from addressing the health inequities that have plagued Black and Brown communities for decades. And it is rooted in a divisive, false narrative that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies are somehow antithetical to excellence in science.

Kimberly Waters, founder of MUSE which she runs out of her brownstone home in Harlem.

(Brenika Banks photo)

By JASON PONTEROTTO Special to the AmNews When guests walk into the Harlem brownstone home of Kimberly Waters and her husband, Steve, they can expect a one-ofa-kind curated fragrance experience.

Waters founded Modern Urban Sensory Experience (MUSE) in her home in 2017 as a luxury perfume destination. She created the space to give a unique experience as opposed to the sometimes less personable one customers — and customers of color in particular — might get in a department store downtown. Beyond perfumes, Waters is proud that MUSE has been able to grow into a communal space where people can leave feeling more whole.

“It’s warm and safe and you feel like you can be yourself. Yery different from going into a traditional brick and mortar,” Waters said.

Waters balances her work as a pharmaceutical representative and running MUSE on the weekends.

Soothing music, typically R&B or jazz, will play as guests enter the home on Edgecombe Avenue in Strivers Row. Depending on whether customers sign up for the browsing session or personalized MUSE experience, guests can test different fragrances, and may leave with a tote bag and samples. Waters is proud to bring this experience to the Harlem community.

“A lot of people who wear fragrance look like me, but they had to jump on a train.

They had to go elsewhere to buy their fra-

grance,” Waters said. “I wanted to create a space in Harlem, where people didn’t have to leave their neighborhood community to go search for their next fragrance.”

Through the sharing of perfumes and scents with clients, Waters says guests can explore and find out more about themselves. She finds that people who visit will want to come back with family and friends, because the MUSE experience is also for people to come together and celebrate each other, using fragrance.

“I want to inspire people to incorporate some element of fragrance into their lifestyle,” Waters said. “I know the power of that.”

For customers who visit MUSE, fragrance often becomes a connector and a bridge that opens the door for deeper conversations and connections. A mother looking for a gift for her daughter was able to talk with Waters about personal struggles, and Waters in turn was able to provide a comforting space for her.

Waters, 44, was born in Harlem and raised on Long Island. She says scents from her mother, grandmother, and other women in her life always had an impression on her.

After graduating from Syracuse University, she began a career in healthcare pharmaceuticals. Later, at 27, after feeling stagnant in moving up the corporate ladder, Waters felt the need to pivot and began to engage in fragrance. She first created a blog called Reminiscient for women, where she talked about fragrances that she was discovering See BNY on page 27

Let’s be clear: DEI is not a political slogan.

It is a framework for ensuring that research reflects the lived realities of all Americans, not just the privileged few. Yet, under the Trump Administration’s rhetoric—casting DEI as “woke ideology” and “illegal discrimination”— critical funding streams have been gutted. The result? Fewer resources to study conditions that disproportionately affect minority populations, such as Sickle Cell Disease, Black maternal mortality, hypertension, and diabetes. These are not abstract issues; they are matters of life and death.

Consider Sickle Cell Disease, a genetic disorder that primarily affects African Americans causing its patients to suffer severe discomfort in the arms, legs, chest, extreme fatigue, anemia, jaundice and swollen extremities.

While breakthroughs in gene therapy offer hope, these treatments remain experimental and expensive. Continued research is essential to make them accessible and safe. Cutting grants means slowing progress—condemning thousands to unnecessary suffering.

Or take Black maternal health, which I have written about in this space highlighting racial bias in the delivery of healthcare and how it contributes to profound distrust of the medical establishment. The United States already has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations, and Black women are three to 3.5 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than their White counterparts. These disparities stem from systemic racism, implicit bias in healthcare, and socioeconomic barriers.

Without robust, targeted research, we cannot design interventions to save lives. These are preventable deaths. Reducing funding now is akin to the nation turning its back on mothers and babies who need these services the most.

Hypertension and cardiovascular disease tell a similar story. African Americans experience higher rates of both, leading to premature deaths and diminished quality of life. These conditions are influenced by complex interactions of genetics, environment, and social determinants of health. Cutting research dollars means fewer studies on culturally tailored in-

terventions, fewer community-based programs, and ultimately, more preventable deaths.

The False Narrative Driving This Retreat The justification for these cuts rests on a pernicious myth: that DEI initiatives dilute scientific rigor. Nothing could be further from the truth. Diversity in research teams and study populations enhances innovation and validity.

When trials exclude minority participants, findings often fail to accurately reflect the broader population — leading to treatments that work well for some but not for all. DEI is not charity; it is a scientific necessity.

Yet, political rhetoric has weaponized the term, painting DEI as a partisan agenda rather than a public health imperative.

Under President Trump’s executive orders, federal agencies dismantled diversity programs, eliminated DEI offices, and revoked equityrelated grants—framing inclusion efforts as discriminatory or “illegal”. This framing ignores decades of evidence showing that inclusive research saves lives. It also disregards the moral obligation of a government to serve all its citizens, not just those who fit a narrow demographic mold.

The origins of the NIMHD go back to 1990 and its forerunner the Office of Minority Programs housed inside the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It’s mission – to confront health disparities head-on -- is not optional; it is foundational to a fair and effective healthcare system. Slashing its grant portfolio by more than half sends a chilling message that the health of minority communities is expendable. This is not just bad policy—it is dangerous governance.

And the ramifications of this kind of shortsighted, racially motivated decision-making will be profound. Young scientists committed to studying health equity will face dwindling opportunities, pushing talent out of the field. Community organizations that partner with researchers will lose vital support. And patients—real people with real needs—will pay the ultimate price.

Public health is not a partisan issue; it is a national priority. Lawmakers must restore funding to NIMHD and reaffirm the value of DEI in research. Philanthropic organizations and private sectors should step in to fill gaps, but they cannot replace the scale and stability of federal investment. Most importantly, we must challenge the false narratives that equate inclusion with mediocrity.

It’s a testament to how far we have regressed as a country that we have to even debate this issue. Science thrives on diversity—of thought, of experience, of perspective. The health of our nation depends on it.

David R. Jones, Esq., is President and CEO of the Community Service Society of New York (CSS), the leading voice on behalf of low-income New Yorkers for more than 175 years. The views expressed in this column are solely those of the writer. The Urban Agenda is available on CSS’s website: www.cssny.org.

6 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Finding affordable dental care is a grind, but it bites hard for Black and Brown patients

New federal legislation affects low-income populations’ ability to rely on the safety-net providers they have come to depend on.

Communities of color are particularly threatened.

Patient receives dental work at Harlem United, a community health center that serves low-income recipients. (Elaine Sanders photos)

By NEELA JAIN Special to the AmNews

York City. Now, however, policy changes to Medicaid under the Trump administration’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” legislation increasFuraha Moyé owes her smile to Harlem ingly threaten the ability of these safety-net United. providers to care for patients in underThe community health center, based in served communities.

Upper Manhattan, has served as a steady “It’s a huge cliff that’s coming for comsource of affordable, quality dental care for munity health centers,” said Melissa Burthe 76-year-old Harlem resident for more roughs, senior director of policy and than a decade. Faced with challenging dental advocacy at the CareQuest Institute for Oral issues since she was a child, Moyé said the Health. “The reality we’re going to see is a services she receives at the center are essen- lot more people … not getting care at all.” tial to her career as an actor and model.

“I know that I would have really gone The high costs of dental care [into myself] had I not gotten that care beResearch shows that regardless of insurcause the self-esteem, the confidence, the ance status, more people cite cost as a barwhole nine is impacted,” she said. rier to accessing dental care as compared Frustrated by how expensive dental to any other type of health care. The financare is, Moyé is equally grateful to Harlem cial burdens associated with seeking dental United for its commitment to serving pa- care have a disproportionate impact on tients regardless of their ability to pay. Too low-income populations. Families living often, the financial stresses that come with below the federal poverty line spent 2% of accessing dental services can stand in the their total family income on dental care in way of overall good health, she said.

2021 compared to high-income families “If your teeth are not good, the rest of who only spent 0.3%, according to a Careyour body can’t be good either,” she said.

Quest Institute for Oral Health report.

Community health centers like Harlem For many, Medicaid, which provides United serve as the few sources of dental health insurance for low-income individcare for low-income populations in New uals and people with disabilities, can serve

as a lifeline for accessing affordable dental care. Jointly funded by the federal government and state governments, Medicaid provides comprehensive dental care to children under the age of 21; coverage for adults varies by state. Only 11 states (not including New York) and Washington, D.C., provide extensive dental coverage for adults, according to data published by the CareQuest Institute.

Barriers to Medicaid acceptance Finding a dental provider who accepts Medicaid can be a challenge. In New York State, the program reimburses participating dentists at about a third or less of average dental charges, according to 2024 data released by the American Dental Association. Only one-third of New York dentists accept Medicaid, according to a report by the Center for Health Workforce Studies at The State University of New York at Albany.

“It’s a losing proposition,” said Dr. Maurice Edwards, president of the New York State Dental Association, whose organization has been at the forefront of advocating for higher reimbursement rates.

Dental providers also cite frequent missed appointments among Medicaid patients as contributing to their lack of participation

in the insurance program, research shows.

In light of the many documented socioeconomic challenges faced by low-income populations, including transportation barriers and inflexible work schedules, such biases against Medicaid participant populations frustrate dental care advocates.

There is “a longer-term cultural shift that has to happen in terms of how … society and how providers view certain populations of patients,” said Colin Reusch, director of policy at Community Catalyst.

Lack of affordable dental care for NYC communities of color In New York City, the shortage of dental providers who accept Medicaid is evident.

Across the city, many neighborhoods lack enough dental providers to meet the needs of populations eligible for Medicaid, according to the federal government. The determination, by the Health Resources & Services Administration, accounts for each area’s percentage of population below the federal poverty line, as well as its proximity to the nearest dental provider.

The majority of shortage provider areas are located in the city’s predominantly lowincome communities of color.

See story on next page

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS who face barriers in accessing quality dental care. A dentist can provide another safeguard The Bronx, whose population is more for an individual’s health, she said, leaving than 50% Latino and more than a quarter people who are unable to receive dental care.

Black, accounts for a significant portion of “You’re missing extra eyes on you,” she said. the city’s dental provider shortage areas.

Communities in neighborhoods such as The role of community health centers High Bridge and Hunts Point are among the Located just blocks away from Central poorest in New York City, with more than Harlem’s famed Apollo Theater, Harlem a quarter of the population living in pov- United’s The Nest Community Health erty. Nearly 65% of the borough’s residents Center is home to state-of-the-art dental faare enrolled in Medicaid, according to 2024 cilities that include three treatment rooms data analyzed by the United Hospital Fund. and a panoramic X-ray. Led by dental direcOther provider shortage areas in the city tor Dr. Alexandra Frankel, Harlem United’s include Central Harlem, where Blacks com- dental team provided care to about 1,200 prise half the population and Latinos nearly patients in 2024, more than half of whom a quarter. Approximately 29% of that popu- were on Medicaid. The comprehensive serlation lives in poverty, compared to the city- vices, which include dental cleanings, root wide average of 18%, based on data from canals, crowns, extractions, dentures, and the Furman Center for Real Estate and emergency care, are critical to meeting the Urban Policy at New York University. dental care needs of low-income, underOverall in New York State, about 35% of served populations in provider shortage Medicaid beneficiaries are white, 18% are areas, said Frankel.

Black, and 31% are Latino, according to figDental care is often treated “like a luxury ures from KFF. when in reality, it should be something that should be able to be accessed by evImportance of oral health erybody,” she said.

A lack of access to affordable dental care Dental services are just one of the forms has contributed to deepening oral health of comprehensive health care, alongside disparities among populations of color. preventive primary care, behavioral health, Black and Latino adults experience un- and other vital services, offered at commutreated tooth decay at nearly twice the rate nity health centers like Harlem United. of their white counterparts, according to New York state’s 70 community health data from the Centers for Disease Control. centers serve more than 2.4 million people, Black adults are also more likely to report nearly three-quarters of whom live at or tooth loss due to tooth decay or gum dis- below the federal poverty line, according to ease compared to white adults. Poor oral data from the Community Health Care Assohealth may also affect the financial stabil- ciation of New York State. Offering discountity of populations of color: Blacks and Lati- ed services based on patient income levels, nos are at least twice as likely to point to the the centers’ mission to deliver high-quality, quality of their teeth or use of dentures as a affordable care to all is critical to the more reason for unemployment, research shows. than 50% of their patient population who Among children, Blacks and Latinos also are covered by Medicaid. Access to commuexperience twice the rate of untreated tooth nity health center services reduces patients’ decay compared to white children, with the needs for costlier care such as visits to the condition prevalent in more than half of emergency department, hospitalizations, Latino youth between the ages of 2 and 19. and specialty care, research shows.

Children with a history of dental issues are The funding structure of communimore likely to have school absences, poor ty health centers has left many, however, grades, and low self-esteem, according to facing financial difficulties. research published by the American JourCommunity health centers, also known nal of Public Health. as Federally Qualified Health Centers Poor oral health can also be a sign of under- (FQHCs), are supported through a variety lying disease in the body, said Dr. Jerica Cook, of sources, including the federal governpresident of the Bronx County Dental Society. ment, revenue from contracts with pri“A lot of [what] you see … in the dental vate insurance, reimbursements through chair [is] a reflection of everything,” she said, Medicare, the federal insurance program noting the many times she has diagnosed for senior citizens and disabled individchronic illnesses through a patient’s oral uals, and other government and private exam. “There are a lot of presentations in contracts, with Medicaid as their most sigyour mouth that correlate to other things.” nificant source of funding. The program Commonly known as the “oral-systemic accounted for 44% of community health connection,” the physiological relationship center revenue in New York State in 2024, between the mouth and the rest of the body according to data from KFF. can have a significant impact on a person’s The Medicaid reimbursement rate is uphealth. Dozens of conditions, including dated annually based on inflation, but these cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neu- adjustments are simply not enough to cover rodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s the increasing costs of delivering health disease, exhibit oral manifestations such as care, said Michaela Frazier, Ph.D., vice presplaque build-up and gum inflammation, ident of social support services at the Instiresearch shows. tute for Family Health, a community health Reflecting on the role of a dentist on a pa- center with sites in Manhattan, Brooklyn, tient’s overall health, Cook worries about those the Bronx, and the mid-Hudson Valley.

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 7

Continued from previews page

(Neela Jain; created with Datawrapper)

“The reality is FQHCs are struggling,” she said. “Many of us are not meeting our budgets. We’re not being paid a sufficient rate to cover all of our services, especially when part of our mission … is to provide services regardless of people’s ability to pay.”

According to community health center audit data, half of community health centers had fewer than 90 days’ cash on hand, and one-quarter operated with margins below -4% in 2024.

The growing costs of dental care also make it challenging for community health centers to cover their expenses. Rising prices of dental equipment and supplies, as well as wages for dental staff, are outpacing inflation, according to a report published this year by the American Dental Association.

Dental health advocates also cite the significant provider expenses associated with dental care as contributing to fewer community health centers offering dental services. Currently, 82% of community health centers in New York state offer dental care compared to 96% that offer other specialty services such as mental health care.

en the already fragile financial health of community health centers. The legislation, signed in July, imposes new Medicaid provisions such as changes in eligibility requirements, as well as more frequent recertification checks.

The modifications, to be phased in starting in late 2026 according to the bill, are expected to result in the loss of Medicaid coverage for millions of people, slashing a key source of revenue for community health centers and inundating them with scores of newly uninsured patients. In New York State, an estimated 1.5 million people are expected to lose their Medicaid coverage, tripling the number of uninsured people seeking care at the centers.

“Health centers are already in trouble and this may just be what breaks them,” said Marie Mongeon, chief external affairs officer at the Community Healthcare Association of New York State.

Community health centers in the state are projected to lose more than $300 million annually, according to the group’s report.

The decrease in revenue is likely to lead to the closure of some community health cenImpact of new federal legislation on com- ters or reductions in service, said Mongeon. munity health centers Dental care is one of the community Policy changes to Medicaid under the health center services at greatest risk of Trump administration’s legislation threatSee DENTAL CARE on page 16

8 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Land bank legislation aims to reshape NYC’s contentious tax lien sale Solutions That Empower is an editorial series spotlighting financial empowerment and racial equity. We’ll feature changemakers, community voices, and practical tools that help our readers build wealth, access resources, and drive real change.

By ARIAMA C. LONG Amsterdam News Staff The New York City Council is moving to transform the city’s tax lien sale process with a package of bills that would use a city-established land bank to collect outstanding municipal debts.

A land bank is the practice of buying and holding undeveloped land for future sale, controlled by a board composed of appointees from the mayor, commissioner of finance, commissioner of housing preservation and development (HPD), and speaker of the council. The city-run land bank the council is aiming to create would have the authority to buy tax liens from the city, ideally preserve homeownership, and collect debts to create revenue for the city.

When a property is on the tax lien sale list, it generally means the owner owes property taxes or has past-due water, sewer, and other property-related charges. The city can then sell the debt to an authorized buyer who has the right to collect what is owed, opening up homeowners to predatory debt collectors. For New York City, that is usually the Bank of New York Mellon and their servicer companies, MTAG Services, LLC and Tower Capital Management.

Commercial properties can be on the list for one year, while a residential property can have up to three years before the city moves forward with foreclosure. This process has put many homeowners at risk of losing their homes since its first implementation in 1996, particularly among Black and Brown individuals, seniors, and veterans.

Earlier in 2025, the Department of Finance published the tax lien list for all five boroughs for the first time in four years.

The list had been paused in 2020 due to the COVID pandemic.

“We were doing doorknocking about the tax lien sale and a lot [of people] were residents renting from private LLCs or in twofamily homes. These people are paying their money and the landlord wasn’t paying the water bills or whatever municipal bills the city wants them to pay,” said Alexis Smallwood-Foot, 42, founder of the ReAL Edgemere Community Land Trust (CLT).

Councilmember Sandy Nurse at New York City Council Committee on Land Use at City Hall on November 19, 2025. (Gerardo Romo/NYC Council Media Unit photo)

Housing advocate calls for abolishing NYC tax lien sale at a rally on February 2, 2023. (John McCarten/NYC Council photo)

She started the trust in 2021 to build housing on vacant land and address climate resiliency issues still plaguing the Rockaways in Queens after Hurricane Sandy.

“There are also homes [on the list] that are [in] at-risk vulnerable populations, [belong to] senior citizens, those in housing programs or with mental illness in re-

covery,” said Smallwood-Foot. “You have daycares on the list because they’re attached to homes and churches on the list.

You’re losing spaces where people of color congregate.”

Queens Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson said the city’s tax lien sale system is the farthest thing from equitable for small

homeowners in places like the Springfield Gardens, Jamaica, Rochdale Village, Laurelton, Arverne, Rosedale, Edgemere, and Deerfield neighborhoods. Sometimes people come to his office in literal tears over a past-due water bill in the thousands that they had no knowledge about, he said.

“The language I use is that the city descends upon its citizens, and to that end, it becomes predatory both from the city and the banks to target these folks without regard to socioeconomic circumstances,” said Anderson. His team is working on legislation to address foreclosures in the community. “You have folks [who] have paid off their homes and [can’t pay] these debts, even with other city and state programs that could and should help them.”

Anderson’s office is adept at helping some constituents contact city agencies to set up a payment plan, find resources, apply tax credits, and enroll in exemption programs, such as the New York State School Tax Relief (STAR) or Senior Citizen Homeowners’ Exemption (SCHE). He firmly believes that the tax lien sale should be abolished and there should be an entity that helps New Yorkers pay down their debts. He also said that the city does “a very poor job” of informing community members about their debts.

This issue is by no means relegated only to neighborhoods in Queens. According to the City Council, tax liens are sold in Black and Brown districts all over the city. This includes District 12, which encompasses Eastchester and Co-op City in the Bronx; Districts 36, 37, 42, 45, and 46 — BedfordStuyvesant, Crown Heights, Brownsville, Cypress Hills, East New York, Canarsie, Flatbush, East Flatbush, and Flatlands in Brooklyn; and District 49, the Northshore on Staten Island.

In August 2025, Filmore Brown, a 62-yearold Jamaican immigrant and small-business owner with a paid off three-story house in East Flatbush, lost his house in a foreclosure. His home was auctioned off without his knowledge over a past-due $5,000 water bill. Brown said he wasn’t informed about what was happening until the supposed new owners breached the house in the middle of the night, drilled out the locks, and installed surveillance cameras while his family and tenants were awakened from their sleep.

Alice A. Nicholson, Brown’s attorney, said that Brown is still in his home and they are fighting the foreclosure in court. She handles numerous cases where Black and Brown homeowners are losing their homes because of bills they claim they know nothSee SOLUTIONS THAT EMPOWER on page 35

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 9

Black and Brown employment disparities are main topic at yearly employment and training conference

By ARIAMA C. LONG Amsterdam News Staff Several members of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s transition team and committees were on hand at the annual New York City Employment and Training Coalition (NYCETC) conference on December 9 at the Times Center in Midtown Manhattan.

The event focused on the future of employment, economic opportunity, higher education, and racial justice.

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams boasts that his administration has broken the alltime high jobs record several times over the course of his term. The city has nearly 5 million private sector jobs among the five boroughs — positions such as hospital staff, finance, and professional services. Meanwhile, unemployment has fallen by about 40% since 2022, including a 31% drop in Black, indigenous, and people of color unemployment, said the city.

However, while that is a good achievement, the city hasn’t completely eliminated existing racial and gender disparities in its workforce, and that is what the conference was intended to address.

“Black and Brown New Yorkers have higher unemployment rates than white New Yorkers, and that’s an issue, but you can’t undersell that there’s also under-employment,” said Gregory J. Morris, CEO of NYCETC, at the event. He was recently appointed to Mamdani’s transition committee on Economic Development & Workforce Development.

Under-employment, said Morris, is the idea that someone has a “low-wage job” and therefore is still struggling to make ends meet. This includes fields with high rates of Black or immigrant essential workers, such as home health aides and nurses, schools, retail, city government, and transportation. Many of these sectors did not fully recover from COVID job losses.

“There’s this sense of folks not having had access,” said Morris. “The disproportionate sort of employment rates, the gap in employment, the gap in gender pay, are significant and complicated.”

Morris is advocating for more investments in training, credentialing, and upskilling to bolster adult Black and Brown workers, as well as youth just entering the workforce under Mamdani’s administration. Meaningful access to housing, childcare, food, and reliable transportation is also critical for this demographic to thrive, he said.

Morris added that the same neighborhoods that have always had the highest rates of unemployment, and historically been underserved by the city in terms of workforce development, have remained the same for decades — pandemic or not.

Neighborhoods like Jamaica, Queens; Brownsville and East New York, Brooklyn; pockets of Harlem that have not been gen-

Dean Angie Kamath at NYU School of Professional Studies, State University of New York (SUNY), Chancellor John B. King Jr.; and President & CEO of Tech:NYC Julie Samuels (l–r) at 2025 NYCETC at Times Center, Manhattan, on December 9, 2025. (Ariama C. Long photo)

trified; the South Bronx, and part of Staten Island are always in a position of struggling in relationship to employment numbers, said Morris.

Not to mention that it’s gotten more expensive to live in an already-costly city.

“We learned that disproportionately Black and Brown people, because of suppressed wages and occupation segregation, struggle the most when it comes to making ends meet, and so we put on the ballot a true costof-living measure,” said Jennifer Jones-Austin, CEO of the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies (FPWA). She served under former Mayor Bill de Blasio on the city’s Racial Justice Commission and is currently on Mamdani’s transition committee on Small Businesses & Minority and Womenowned Business Enterprise (M/WBE).

Is college worth it anymore?

Dean Angie Kamath of the NYU School of Professional Studies said learning and education is transformative for young people, regardless of the idea in some circles that going to college isn’t necessary anymore.

College enrollment rates have dropped significantly among young white, Black, and Latino men. Even young Black male students enrolling in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) hit a historic low in 2023. Many cite rising tuition costs, the spread of more traditional gender roles on social media, and a desire for more income quickly as reasons for not going to college. “[Higher education] is worth it, because it is a place where you can start to learn about yourself, what you’re good at, what energizes you, what excites you. It happens in a classroom,” said Kamath, “but we have to make the price tag affordable. It can’t be a place with crushing debt.”

Changes at the federal level and defining diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) under

President Trump have also made it harder for people to want to go to college. His administration has limited federal student loans, eliminated graduate PLUS loans; and redefined professional degrees in crucial sectors such as nursing, physical therapy, dental hygiene, occupational therapy, social work, architecture, education, and accounting with the passage of the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Act. There are 64 State University of New York (SUNY) campuses and 26 City University of New York (CUNY) institutions.

SUNY Chancellor John B. King Jr. has been named to Mamdani’s transition committee on Youth & Education. King said that every day, the state’s schools are making it possible for New Yorkers to access social mobility through affordable public education.

Tuition can range from free for in-state students with grants to about $7,000 a semester, said King.

“Let’s first acknowledge that some of the work we’re describing is under attack.

When people say you can’t do diversity, equity, and inclusion, that is an attack on our ability in higher education, in the workforce, to respond to the unique needs of particular communities,” said King at the conference panel. “And I will say, at SUNY, we just utterly reject that.”

Advocacy and entrepreneurship Executive Director of the Social Justice Fund (SJF) Gregg Bishop, a member of Adams’s transition team in 2021, had an interesting path to advocacy: He dropped out of college, taught himself how to code, and entered the workforce at age 25 with an annual $125,000 salary. However, when he was laid off, he did not have a degree to fall back on. Bishop was able to pivot into the world of advocacy and entrepreneurship, serving as the city’s Department of

Small Business Services (SBS) Commissioner from 2015 to 2020 before finding a home at SJF. Bishop agreed that finances are partially the reason why Black men aren’t going to college. The other reason is that they weren’t excited about schooling to begin with because of an overall disinvestment in local high schools and primary education.

It can also be that higher education clashes culturally with a young Black man’s sense of masculinity.

“A lot of individuals feel like, ‘I don’t want to be the smart one on the block,’ … ‘I don’t want to be the nerd on the block,’ ... ‘My friends might think I changed because I’m going to college,’” Bishop said. “[But] that’s the whole purpose of going to college, especially when you go away, because you are now exposed to new experiences, new cultures, et cetera, and so when you come back to the block, you’re different. That shouldn’t be a negative.”

Certification in skills that lead to high-paying, union jobs, such as Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training or specialized maritime/STEM programs in harbor school, are options for young New Yorkers that are just as important as college, added Bishop.

He also noticed that there is not much racial diversity in leadership roles in the nonprofit and advocacy sectors in the city — possibly because of low salaries and education requirements. However, he is encouraged by the groundswell of leaders, business owners, and organizers of color that SJF has invested in in Brooklyn with training, resources, and grants over the years.

Will AI replace us?

Julie Samuels, president and CEO of Tech:NYC and part of Mamdani’s transition committee on Technology, said that no matter what job a New Yorker currently has, the reality is that AI will affect them eventually because of rapid technological advancement.

Much of the development in the tech and finance industry is physically located on the West Coast. Samuels said her company strives to connect NYC’s students to project-based learning and these companies. It is hard to stay ahead of what employers look for in workers, she admitted, because companies have no idea what jobs will look like or what they will be hiring for in the future.

“Working right now with AI is both terrifying and incredibly exciting,” she said.

“In real time, we’re all learning it together, and it is scary for the people in the middle.

I don’t mean to belittle the fear around the uncertainty, but it’s also kind of amazing.”

King said SUNY is working on embedding Google certificates into their humanities and social science degrees because they want students to have options and an understanding of AI tools as soon as they graduate.

10 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Union Matters Attorney General Letitia James accuses UPS of cheating seasonal workers in lawsuit

Attorney General Letitia James’ office is suing UPS for withholding wages owed to workers. (Karen Juanita Carrillo photo)

By KAREN JUANITA CARRILLO Amsterdam News Staff UPS workers may be owed thousands of dollars in back pay thanks to a new lawsuit filed by New York Attorney General Letitia James’ office against the shipping company, alleging that the company essentially stole wages from workers across the state.

James’ office began investigating complaints from unionized Teamsters Local 804 members about UPS payments to seasonal employees in 2023.

Every holiday season, UPS hires thousands of workers as “Driver Helpers” and “Seasonal Support Drivers” statewide from October to January. Teamsters Local 804 filed complaints alleging that these workers often faced wage issues: union members claimed UPS failed to pay them for hours worked, manipulated time records,

and violated labor laws.

The AG said her investigation uncovered a pattern of continued underpayment of seasonal delivery workers. “UPS built its holiday business on the backs of workers who were not paid for their time and labor,” James said. “UPS’s seasonal employees work brutal hours in the cold to deliver the holiday packages families across the country count on. Instead of compensating these workers fairly for their labor, UPS has played the Grinch. I am fighting to get these workers their money back and stop UPS from continuing its cruel and unlawful wage theft.”

According to the lawsuit, UPS regularly failed to record all hours worked, resulting in pervasive off-the-clock labor. Workers reported waiting on-site or in the field before clocking in, performing tasks such as loading packages, and traveling between as-

signments — all without pay. The company allegedly delayed clock-ins until packages were scanned or delivered and automatically deducted meal breaks regardless of whether workers took them. Timesheet edits and pay adjustments based on scheduled start times also kept the early work employees put in unpaid.

UPS is the largest package delivery company worldwide, generating about $90 billion in annual revenue and employing nearly 500,000 people worldwide. The Associated Press reports that the company responded to the lawsuit by stating that it “takes all accusations of wrongdoing seriously and denies the unfounded allegation of intentionally underpaying UPS employees.

“We offer industry-leading pay and benefits to our more than 26,000 employees in New York, and we remain committed to fol-

lowing all applicable laws.”

James said the exact amount the suit seeks has not yet been determined, but it will likely exceed $45 million. The suit seeks restitution for current and former seasonal workers whose wages were unlawfully withheld and also requests a court order requiring UPS to end off-the-clock work and to revise its timekeeping and payroll practices.

“We at Teamsters Local 804 deeply appreciate the work Attorney General Letitia James and her office have done to hold corporations like UPS accountable,” Local 804 President Vincent Perrone said. “UPS thought they could exploit seasonal workers by not paying them for all time worked.

But the Teamsters and the state of New York will always stand up to corporate greed and abuse. Thank you for standing with us and with working people across our great state.”

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 11

Affordable Housing for Rent

WILLETS POINT COMMONS 747 NEWLY CONSTRUCTED UNITS AT 126-43 39TH AVENUE & 126-55 39TH AVENUE FLUSHING, QUEENS Amenities: 24/7 attended lobby, onsite resident manager, complimentary Wi-Fi, video intercom, Amazon package lockers, secure package room, dishwashers, in-unit washer/dryers in majority of family size units, thermostat controlled heating & cooling, landscaped outdoor green spaces, activated rooftop terraces*, outdoor grills, community garden, fitness center & yoga room*, resident lounge with kitchen*, co-working space*, party lounge*, children’s playroom*, secure bike storage*, card operated laundry*, dry cleaning pick-up/drop-off*, onsite storage* (*additional fees apply).

Transit: The site offers convenient access to NYC transit, including the 7-Subway line at Mets-Willets Point stop on Roosevelt Avenue, the Q19, Q90, and Q66 bus routes, and the Long Island Rail Road at the Mets-Willets Point Station.

No fee to apply • No broker’s fee • Smoke-free building • More information: www.livewilletspoint.com This building is being constructed through the Mix & Match Program of the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC) and the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD).

Who Should Apply?

Individuals or households who meet the income and household size requirements listed in the table below may apply. Qualified applicants will be required to meet additional selection criteria. Applicants who live in New York City receive a general preference for apartments.

• •

A percentage of units is set aside for: o Mobility–disabled applicants (5%) o Vision/Hearing–disabled applicants (2%) Preference for a percentage of units goes to: o Residents of Queens Community Board 7 (20%) o Municipal Employee/ Military Veteran (10%)

New York City is committed to the principle of inclusivity in all of its neighborhoods, including supporting New Yorkers to reside in neighborhoods of their choice, regardless of their neighborhood of origin and regardless of the neighborhood into which they want to move.

AVAILABLE UNITS AND INCOME REQUIREMENTS

3 Bedroom

80% AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI) UNITS

$1,546

$1,941

$2,317

$2,665

Asset Limit

27

55

17

10

2 people

$25,509 - $38,880

3 people

$25,509- $43,740

2 people

$30,789 - $38,880

3 people

$30,789 - $43,740

4 people

$30,789 - $48,600

5 people

$30,789 - $52,500

3 people

$35,726 - $43,740

4 people

$35,726 - $48,600

5 people

$35,726 - $52,500

6 people 7 people

Household Size2

Annual Household Income3

1 person

$56,812 - $90,720

2 people

$56,812 - $103,680

1 person

$70,903 - $90,720

2 people

$70,903 - $103,680

3 people

$70,903 - $116,640

2 people

$85,269 - $103,680

3 people

$85,269 - $116,640

4 people

$85,269 - $129,600

5 people

$85,269 - $140,000

3 people

$98,640 - $116,640

4 people

$98,640 - $129,600

5 people

$98,640 - $140,000

6 people 7 people

$882

$1,046

50

15

$27,738 - $45,360

2 people

$27,738- $51,840

1 person

$34,595 - $45,360

2 people

$34,595 - $51,840

3 people

$34,595 - $58,320

2 people

$41,692 - $51,840

3 people

$41,692 - $58,320

4 people

$41,692 - $64,800

5 people

$41,692 - $70,000

3 people

$48,309 - $58,320

4 people

$48,309 - $64,800

5 people

$48,309 - $70,000

$35,726 - $56,400

6 people

$35,726 - $60,270

7 people

Household Size2

Annual Household Income3

1 person

$73,543 - $136,080

$1,197

Monthly Rent1

Minimum – Maximum4

$2,034

$2,550

9

Units Asset Available Limit

102

213

$1,122

$1,411

$1,682

Units Available

Asset Limit

14

31

9

$97,200

$25,509 - $34,020

25

1 person

Monthly Rent1

Minimum – Maximum4

60% AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI) UNITS

1 person

$698

Annual Household Income3

Household Size2

Annual Household Income3

1 person

$42,275 - $68,040

Minimum – Maximum4

2 people

$42,275 - $77,760

1 person

$52,732 - $68,040

2 people

$52,732 - $77,760

3 people

$52,732 - $ 87,480

2 people

$63,498 - $77,760

3 people

$63,498 - $87,480

4 people

$63,498 - $97,200

5 people

$63,498 - $105,000

3 people

$73,475 - $87,480

4 people

$73,475 - $97,200

5 people

$73,475 - $105,000

$48,309 - $75,200

6 people

$73,475 - $112,800

$48,309 - $80,360

7 people

$73,475 - $120,540

Household Size2

Annual Household Income3

2 people

$132,138 - $194,400

3 people

$132,138 - $218,700

4 people

$132,138 - $243,000

5 people

$132,138 - $262,500

3 people

$152,778 - $218,700

4 people

$152,778 - $243,000

5 people

$152,778 - $262,500

$1,931

Minimum – Maximum4

2 people

$73,543 – $155,520

1 person

$91,783 - $136,080

2 people

$91,783 - $155,520

6

Monthly Rent1

Units Available

$3,684

49

Asset Limit

Minimum – Maximum4

3 people

$91,783- $174,960

2 people

$110,332 - $155,520

3 people

$110,332 - $174,960

4 people

$110,332 - $194,400

5 people

$110,332 - $210,000

3 people

$127,612 - $174,960

4 people

$127,612 - $194,400

5 people

$127,612 - $210,000

$98,640 - $150,400

6 people

$127,612 - $225,600

6 people

$152,778 - $282,000

$98,640 - $160,720

7 people

$127,612 - $241,080

7 people

$152,778 - $301,350

$3,048

15

$3,510

9

$243,000

Units Available

$20,469 - $38,880

Household Size2

150% AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI) UNITS

5

2 people

Units Asset Available Limit

$64,800

9

$20,469 - $34,020

40% AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI) UNITS

$728

Monthly Rent1

Studio

2 Bedroom

32

$830

Unit Size

1 Bedroom

$617

1 person

Monthly Rent1

Minimum – Maximum4

$194,400

3 Bedroom

14

Household Size2

120% AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI) UNITS

2 Bedroom

Asset Limit

$48,600

1 Bedroom

$486

30% AREA MEDIAN INCOME (AMI) UNITS

Studio

Units Available

$129,600

Monthly Rent1

Unit Size

Annual Household Income3

$4,244

31

1 Rent includes gas for heating. Tenant responsible for electricity.

2 Household size includes everyone who will live with you, including parents and children. Subject to occupancy criteria.

3 Household earnings includes salary, hourly wages, tips, Social Security, child support, and other income. Income guidelines subject to change.

4 Minimum income listed may not apply to applicants with Section 8 or other qualifying rental subsidies. Asset limits also apply.

How Do You Apply?

Apply online or through mail. To apply online, please go to https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/. To request an application by mail, send a self-addressed envelope to: Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019. Only send one application per development. Do not submit duplicate applications. Do not apply online and also send in a paper application. Applicants who submit more than one application may be disqualified.

When is the Deadline?

Applications must be postmarked or submitted online no later than February 25th, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

What Happens After You Submit an Application?

After the deadline, applications are selected for review through a lottery process. If yours is selected and you appear to qualify, you will be invited to submit documents to continue the process of determining your eligibility.

Applicants are usually contacted from 2 to 10 months after the application deadline. You will be asked to submit documents that verify your household size, identity of members of your household, and your household income.

Español

Presente una solicitud en línea en https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/. Para recibir una traducción de español de este anuncio y la solicitud impresa, envíe un sobre con la dirección a: Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019. En el reverso del sobre, escriba en inglés la palabra “SPANISH.” Las solicitudes se deben enviar en línea o con sello postal antes de 25 de febrero de 2026.

简体中文

访问https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/ 在线申请。如要获取本广告及书面申请表的简体中文版，请将您的回邮信封寄送至：Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019. 信封背面请用英语注明“CHINESE”。必须在以下日期之前在线提交申请或邮寄书面申请 2026年 年2月 月25日 日

Русский

Чтобы подать заявление через интернет, зайдите на сайт: https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/. Для получения данного объявления и заявления на русском языке отправьте конверт с обратным адресом по адресу Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019. На задней стороне конверта напишите слово “RUSSIAN” на английском языке. Заявки должны быть поданы онлайн или отправлены по почте (согласно дате на почтовом штемпеле) не позднее 25 февраля 2026 года.

한국어

https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/ 에서 온라인으로 신청하십시오. 이 광고문과 신청서에 대한 한국어 번역본을 받아보시려면 반송용 봉투를 Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019 으로 보내주십시오. 봉투 뒷면에 “KOREAN” 이라고 영어로 적어주십시오. 2026년 년 2월 월 25일 일 까지 온라인 신청서를 제출하거나 소인이 찍힌 신청서를 보내야 합니다.

Kreyòl Ayisyien Aplike sou entènèt sou sitwèb https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/. Pou resevwa yon tradiksyon anons sa a nan lang Kreyòl Ayisyen ak aplikasyon an sou papye, voye anvlòp ki gen adrès pou retounen li nan: Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019. Nan dèyè anvlòp la, ekri mo “HATIAN CREOLE” an Anglè. Ou dwe remèt aplikasyon yo sou entènèt oswa ou dwe tenbre yo anvan dat Fevriye 25th, 2026 ‫اﻟﻌرﺑﯾﺔ‬

‫ ﻋﻠﻰ‬.Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019:‫ أرﺳل ﻣظروﻓًﺎ ﺑﺎﻟﻌﻧوان إﻟﻰ‬، ‫ﻟﺗﻠﻘﻲ ﺗرﺟﻣﺔ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻟﻌرﺑﯾﺔ ﻟﮭذا اﻹﻋﻼن واﻟﺗطﺑﯾﻖ اﻟﻣطﺑوع‬https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/ ‫إرﺳﺎل طﻠب ﻋﺑر اﻹﻧﺗرﻧت ﻋﻠﻰ‬ .2026 ‫ ﻓﺑراﯾر‬25 ‫ ﯾﺟب ﺗﻘدﯾم اﻟطﻠﺑﺎت ﻋﺑر اﻹﻧﺗرﻧت أو ﻋن طرﯾﻖ ﺧﺗم ﺑرﯾدي ﻗﺑل‬."ARABIC" ‫ اﻛﺗب ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻐﺔ اﻹﻧﺟﻠﯾزﯾﺔ ﻛﻠﻣﺔ‬، ‫ظﮭر اﻟﻣظروف‬

Polskie

Aby złożyć wniosek online, przejdź na stronę https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/. Aby uzyskać polskie tłumaczenie tego powiadomienia oraz wniosek w wersji wydrukowanej, wyślij kopertę z własnym adresem: Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019. Wpisz słowo „POLISH” w j. angielskim na odwrocie koperty. Wnioski muszą posiadać stempel pocztowy lub zostać przesłane online nie później niż

25 lutego 2026.

Français

Pour déposer votre demande en ligne, rendez-vous sur le site https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/ Pour recevoir une traduction en français de cet avis ainsi qu’un dossier de demande papier, envoyez une enveloppe libellée à votre nom et votre adresse à l’adresse suivante : Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019. Inscrivez le mot « FRENCH » au dos de l’enveloppe. Les demandes doivent être envoyées par la poste ou soumises en ligne au plus tard le 25 février 2026 , le cachet de la poste faisant foi.

বাংলা

অনলাইেন আেবদন করেত, অনু�হ কের https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/ এ যান। এই িব�ি�র বাংলা অনুবাদ এবং আেবদন�ট ছাপােনাভােব েপেত এই �ঠকানায় এক�ট �-সে�ািধত খাম পাঠান: Willets Point Commons, c/o Related Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019। খােমর িপছেন “BENGALI” শ��ট ইংের�জেত িলখুন। অ�াি�েকশন�িল অবশ�ই ২৫ েফ�য়াির, ২০২৬ এর মেধ� েপা�মাক� করেত হেব বা অনলাইেন জমা িদেত হেব।

‫اردو‬

Willets Point Commons, c/o Related :‫ اﭘﻨﮯ ذاﺗﯽ ﭘﺘﮯ ﮐﺎ ﺣﺎﻣﻞ اﯾﮏ ﻟﻔﺎﻓہ‬،‫ ﭘﺮ ﺟﺎﺋﯿﮟ۔ اس ﻧﻮﮢﺲ ﮐﺎ اردو زﺑﺎن ﻣﯿﮟ ﺗﺮﺟﻤہ اور ﭘﺮﻧﭧ ﺷﺪه درﺧﻮاﺳﺖ ﻣﻮﺻﻮل ﮐﺮﻧﮯ ﮐﮯ ﻟﯿﮯ‬https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/ ‫ ﺑﺮا ِه ﮐﺮم‬،‫آن ﻻﺋﻦ اﭘﻼﺋﯽ ﮐﺮﻧﮯ ﮐﮯ ﻟﯿﮯ‬ ‫ﺳﮯ زﯾﺎده ﺗﺎﺧﯿﺮ ﺳﮯ آن ﻻﺋﻦ ﺟﻤﻊ ﻧہ ﮐﺮاﯾﺎ ﺟﺎﻧﺎ‬. 2026 ،‫ ﻓروری‬25 ‫" اﻧﮕﺮﯾﺰی ﻣﯿﮟ ﺗﺤﺮﯾﺮ ﮐﺮﯾﮟ۔ درﺧﻮاﺳﺘﻮں ﮐﮯ ﻟﯿﮯ ﭘﻮﺳﭧ ﻣﺎرک ﮐﺮده ﮨﻮﻧﺎ ی‬URDU" ‫ ﭘﺮ ﺑﮭﯿﺠﯿﮟ۔ ﻟﻔﺎﻓﮯ ﮐﯽ ﭘﺸﺖ ﭘﺮ ﻟﻔﻆ‬Management, 423 W. 55th Street, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10019 ‫ﻻزم ﮨﮯ۔‬

Governor Kathy Hochul • Mayor Eric Adams • HPD Acting Commissioner Ahmed Tigani • HDC President Eric Enderlin

12 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Opinion What happens if Trump flexes a hidden constitutional muscle?

When trauma explains, but does not excuse

By DILICE ROBERTSON

EDITORIAL

Janice Combs’ rejection of the Netflix docuseries “Sean Combs: The Reckoning” as “lies” and “fake narratives,” expressed Overreach is the operative word something more complicated than when it comes to explaining the simple denial. Families often respond Trump administration, and it often defensively when someone they love is involves violations of the law and accused of serious harm. The instinct to the Constitution. protect a public figure’s reputation is faIn so many alarming ways, miliar in American culture, where legacy Donald Trump is determined to frequently matters more than confrontrecast the nation on his own terms, ing difficult truths. But defensive storywithout resorting to the unitary extelling, whether from families, fans, or ecutive theory. Chances are that, institutions, does not change the impact should things arrive at that critical of harm, nor does it help us understand point in American history when he how cycles of violence take shape or how invokes it, a doctrine rooted in an they might finally end. expansive interpretation of Article I write from years of clinical work with II of the Constitution that would adolescents and adults shaped by early grant the president sweeping execadversity. Trauma-exposed children utive authority, Congress and the toggle between hypervigilance and emoSupreme Court would almost certional shutdown because their developtainly come into play. ing brains adapt to instability. Over time, With all the congressional checks those adaptations can become personand balances currently nullified, ality traits: mistrust, emotional distance, the conservative court will unand rigid control. Research consistently doubtedly follow suit. Such an shows that childhood trauma alters core approval would make it unduly posregulatory systems. One study by Cross, sible for him to remove Lisa Cook Fani, Powers, and Bradley (2017) found from the Federal Reserve Board that early adversity heightens stress reof Governors, as well as members activity and impairs the brain circuits of the Federal Trade Commission responsible for emotional modulation. and the National Labor Relations More recently, Zhang, Xu, Funkhouser, Board, should he choose.

Monteleone, and Yu (2024) demonstrated We are witnessing his moves that early trauma influences adult attachto place the 14th Amendment in ment patterns and shapes how individujeopardy, denying citizenship and als respond to perceived threats or loss birthrights. And as we cast an eye of control. These findings do not suggest down the road to the next presidenthat trauma determines destiny, but they tial election, we should not be surshow that early experiences remain bioprised that the 22nd Amendment logically and psychologically active long would be the next target to extend after childhood ends. his time in the Oval Office.

Still, it is crucial to acknowledge what Much of this hangs in the balthis science does not say. Trauma does ance of if, when and how the uninot turn people into abusers. Most inditary executive theory is activated, viduals who experience childhood adand its outcome. If Congress and versity do not go on to cause harm; many the courts give the go ahead, then display extraordinary resilience, especialall bets are off. ly when provided with consistent support and community safety. The presence of trauma in someone’s history offers context, not justification. Compassion for the child someone once was, cannot erase Elinor R. Tatum: Publisher accountability for the adult they and Editor in Chief have become.

Member Madison Gray: Executive & Investigative Editor Unfortunately, our public narDamaso Reyes: Editor at Large ratives often collapse these disKristin Fayne-Mulroy: Managing Editor tinctions. When a powerful Cyril Josh Barker: Digital Editor Alliance for figure faces allegations of genAudited Media Siobhan "Sam" Bennett: der-based violence or coercion, Chief Revenue Officer and Head of Advertising trauma is sometimes deployed Wilbert A. Tatum (1984-2009): to excuse behavior rather than Chairman of the Board, CEO and Publisher Emeritus explain it. This misuse of trauma

When the legal system struggles to hold powerful individuals accountable, cultural arenas, journalism, documentaries, and public testimony become essential tools for truth-telling. language distorts both psychology and ethics. Understanding a person’s developmental history can help us trace the roots of harmful behavior, but it cannot absolve them of responsibility. In fact, trauma science deepens our obligation to intervene early and set boundaries that prevent cycles of harm from repeating across families and communities.

When the legal system struggles to hold powerful individuals accountable, cultural arenas, journalism, documentaries, and public testimony become essential tools for truth-telling. This is not because the media should act as a substitute for due process, but because it can illuminate patterns that courts often fail to capture: controlling behavior, relational coercion, and long-term intimidation. These forms of harm frequently fall through the cracks of traditional prosecution. Without public scrutiny, they may never be named at all.

A responsible path forward requires several shifts. First, we must treat early trauma as relevant to adult behavior without falling into the trap of fatalism.

Trauma shapes emotional development, but it does not negate agency. Second, we need to abandon narratives that use trauma as a shield against accountability. Acknowledging someone’s history can deepen empathy, but it cannot override the safety, dignity, and justice owed to those they hurt. Third, we need systems that draw from both restorative and protective principles: early trauma screening

for children, trauma-informed education, community-based supports for families, and legal frameworks that actually respond to the realities of gender-based harm. Accountability should not depend solely on incarceration; it should include prevention, transparency, rehabilitation, and meaningful protections for survivors.

Finally, we must be honest about our cultural pattern of defending the powerful at the expense of the vulnerable.

Denial, whether from families who feel protective, fans who feel loyal, or institutions that feel complicit, does not alter the truth. It simply delays the possibility of repair.

Trauma can help us understand how harmful behavior develops, but it cannot excuse what people choose to do. Moving forward requires building systems that take trauma seriously and hold people accountable for the harm they cause. It means rejecting public narratives that minimize abuse, refusing to protect powerful individuals at the expense of those they hurt, and insisting on transparency even when it challenges long-held loyalties. If we want a safer culture, we must name harm clearly, support those who experience it, and stop treating accountability as optional.

Dilice Robertson is a clinical associate professor at the Rory Meyers School of Nursing at New York University and a public voices fellow with The OpEd Project.

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS O P I N I O N

Two pregnant Black women were ignored by doctors, then this happened…

By KATERINA LUNG Mercedes Wells begged nurses to listen. She was in active labor and in severe pain. However, instead of being treated, she was dismissed and discharged by hospital staff. Soon after, she gave birth on the side of an Indiana highway, alone, without adequate care — putting her and her baby’s health at risk. As a Black woman, Wells notes in an interview that the nurses were all white, and that she “felt ignored [and] disregarded as a whole.”

At the Dallas Regional Medical Center in Mesquite, Kiara Jones faced a similar situation. Despite her pleas for help, she was forced to wait more than half an hour in a triage room before delivering her baby after a rushed lastminute admission.

Both Black women were dismissed because medical professionals assumed they were lying. The medical system too often treats pregnant women, especially Black women, as unreliable narrators of their own bodies. These assumptions lead to many cases of medical neglect.

The numbers are staggering. The World Health Organization (WHO), in a released data, shows that in 2020, an estimated 800 women died every day from preventable causes relating to maternal health complications — one death every two minutes, despite the fact that

an estimated 98% of these deaths are preventable.

The statistics are worse for Black women, even when they seek prenatal care: The risk of maternal death for Black women is four times higher in all trimesters compared to white women. We are not witnessing biological inevitabilities, but preventable suffering created by a culture that treats women’s suffering as “natural” and women’s autonomy as optional.

We often hear that women are “naturally” caregivers, “naturally” responsible for children, and “naturally” belong in domestic spaces, a perspective that stems from religion. Many deny these phrases when stated explicitly, but when attached to pregnancy, these ideas feel “natural”: suffering is portrayed as inevitable rather than preventable.

Pregnancy is framed as a duty. A miscarriage is the woman’s fault. Maternal death is unfortunate, but “natural.” “Nature” dictates everything, such as what risks pregnant women should silently endure, how much pain they should tolerate, and at which point their labor dictates a medical emergency. But nothing about the experiences of Wells or Jones, or the millions of preventable deaths worldwide, is “natural.”

What we mistake for natural occurrences are moral enforcements by a

corrupt, sexist, and racist medical culture. The medical system’s willful ignorance towards pregnant women is not biology; it is sexism and racism dressed up as nature.

There are mainly two types of sexism: hostile and benevolent sexism. Wells’ and Jones’ situations are examples of hostile sexism.

However, benevolent sexism is also common in the medical field, justifying and perpetuating the subordination of women.

In particular, the medical field frames pregnancy as requiring constant protection, legitimizing interventions and restrictions.

Enforced under the guise of protecting the fetus, “sexism was related to willingness to restrict pregnant women’s choices.” For example, in the past, doctors recommended bed rest to pregnant women, limiting their physical activity. Even now, most people think that lying in bed all day when pregnant seems like a good idea. Although rest is much needed, doctors have proven that bed rest carries many risks, such as “blood clots, loss of bone mass, and a loss of conditioning in the heart, lungs, and muscles.”

As a Christian woman, I am especially troubled by how many of these restrictions are defended through distorted appeals to “nature,” as if maternal mortality is “God’s will.” Religious norms and practices continue to “in-

fluence the uptake of MHS (maternal health services) and maternal health outcomes.” Yet nothing in scripture suggests that women are meant to be discriminated against, to be dismissed in hospitals while in painful labor, or to have their autonomy stripped away. I refuse to accept the misinterpretation of Scripture used to excuse suffering when we have the means to prevent it. It is not “God’s will,” or natural at all, for women to be “used up in the process of reproduction, in a matter analogous to that of salmon, which does after spawning,” as Dr. Joseph DeLee bitterly phrases. Religious or not, women deserve proper medical care, respect, and trust.

We must stop allowing hospitals, policymakers, and even religious voices to disguise sexism and racism as “natural.”

Women deserve more than this ambiguity, this uncertainty of whether we will get proper care. We deserve to be believed and treated.

Every woman, pregnant or not, must dismantle this system. Demand accountability because maternal death is not natural but preventable. And preventing it begins with us refusing to stay silent.

Katerina Lung is a firstyear student at Columbia University at Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science.

In a world of crassness, is there nothing off limits?

By HERB BOYD

cause of their deaths.

Still, it is basically anTDS is not the abbrevia- other disrespectful way tion for touch downs, but to embolden his own nara touchstone for our mani- cissistic, demonic intent acal head of government, to command and take adand to hear him tell it, it’s vantage of every aspect of given birth to Trump De- social media, no matter rangement Syndrome. The how crude and cruel. term has gained fresh curRocker Jack White put it rency with the deaths of exceedingly well when he Rob and Michele Reiner, voiced the outrage that which he invoked as the is shared by many Amer-

icans, citing “Trump, you disgusting, vile, egomaniac, loser, child. Neither he nor any of his followers can defend this gross, horrible insult to a beautiful artist who gave the world so much.”

Moreover, I agree with Jack that Trump is using the tragedy to promote his own “vanity and fascist authoritarian agenda.”

Nothing we learn each day is taboo or prohibitive when it has utility in the Trumpian universe, his demonocracy.

If anyone has caused an incurable, unyielding affliction among those seeking freedom, justice, and equality, it’s Trump, and that’s the kind of disease we wish would spread.

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 13

Leaving the Year of the Snake behind CHRISTINA

GREER, PH.D. The Chinese zodiac Year of the Snake is coming to a close and we will soon usher in the Year of the Horse. As the snake sign ends, I am told there will be lots of shedding of emotions and baggage. As the year wraps up, this is a perfect opportunity to take stock of what in our lives we need to leave in 2025 so we can start 2026 nice and fresh.

Each year, I fill out a reflection worksheet that helps me take stock of the various facets of my life.

The worksheet asks me to give myself a grade, justify the grade, and then think of ways to improve on the grade. It may seem like an arduous task, but reflecting on the ways you have triumphed throughout the year (especially this incredibly draining year) is a nice way to remember all you have accomplished, as well as to set some goals for the upcoming year.

Some of the topics addressed include Work Life (everything to do with your primary money-making endeavors); School Life (books and reading and theses and such … if you’re still doing it); Free Time (everything to do with the other twothirds, or 1/720, of your life); Humble Abode (everything to do with your home physical environment); Friendships (this one is self-explanatory); Romantic Interactions (everything to do with whom you kiss/date, etc.); Familial Interactions (everything to do with those people in your life whom you don’t choose); Health and Wellness (everything to do with how you take care of yourself

physically); State of Mind (everything to do with your attitude toward life); Impact on Society (everything to do with how you change the world around you); Cultural Experiences (everything to do with the artistic/cultural/literary opportunities you engaged in); and Creativity (everything to do with how you’ve used your creative energy to create things).

Not all of these items may apply to everyone, but it is an interesting exercise for taking stock of the year. The worksheet also asks you to think of highlights from each month of the year.

In doing so, you can look back and reflect, as well as visualize what you would like to see for yourself in 2026. Goal-setting can be difficult for some and can feel daunting, so I view this exercise as a loose blueprint for an informal way to turn my action steps into a reality.

Putting things on paper often helps me see things more clearly and make course corrections when necessary.

However you choose to plan for 2026, I do hope you take a moment to think of all of the mountains climbed this year, small and large.

Christina Greer, Ph.D., is an associate professor at Fordham University; author of the books “How to Build a Democracy: From Fannie Lou Hamer and Barbara Jordan to Stacey Abrams” and “Black Ethnics: Race, Immigration, and the Pursuit of the American Dream”; and co-host of the podcast FAQ-NYC.

14 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Caribbean Update U.S. military to use Trinidad as a transit point for regional operations

By BERT WILKINSON Special to the AmNews When the Trump administration recently began its designs to remove Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power and attack its alleged narcotics-producing systems, Caribbean Community governments moved to stay clear of the conflict, calling for a diplomatic solution in an area they regard as a zone of peace.

Most of the members in the 15nation grouping opted to call for a de-escalation as the U.S. amassed an impressive armada of powerful ships, bombers, fighters, and nearly 15,000 personnel, stationed in international waters near Venezuela.

For many in the grouping, not accustomed to and unwilling to tolerate large-scale military conflict, governments feared not only the long-term consequences of military activities and occupation, but also the immediate fallout, such as a mass migration of Venezuelans leaving the country for neighboring Caribbean states. Chief among them are Guyana and Suriname, as well as Trinidad and Tobago, which is already home to more than 50,000 Venezuelan refugees, like Guyana.

But while the remainder of the bloc tried to proverbially hold one foreign policy position, Trinidad has played it differently, making it

The USS Gravely destroyer arrives to dock for military exercises in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025. (AP Photo/ Robert Taylor, File)

clear that it is unabashedly standing behind the U.S. action in the region, as attacks on alleged narco-carrying vessels have helped to reduce human trafficking, weapons, and narcotics smuggling, as well as, felony crimes at home. Authorities say that this year’s murder tally will be around 40% fewer than last year and the previous decades, when the annual tally averaged around 550, thanks to reduced smuggling in general because of deadly American attacks.

Meanwhile, at the start of this week, the administration of Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar

announced that it has granted special permission for the American military to use the two main airports in both Trinidad and Tobago as transit and resupply points in the coming weeks.

The announcement has come amid persistent denials from Port of Spain that the Republic is set to allow the U.S. to use the country as a base to attack neighboring Venezuela, just seven miles away. That fear was explained away in a release from the foreign ministry stating that “the U.S. has advised that these movements are logistical in nature, facilitating supply replen-

ishment and routine personnel rotations. The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs maintains close engagement with the U.S. embassy in Trinidad and Tobago. The honorable prime minister has affirmed the government’s commitment to cooperation and collaboration in the pursuit of safety and security for Trinidad and Tobago and the wider region. We welcome the continued support of the United States.”

The release also comes as the country already hosts several joint military exercises with U.S. forces and has allowed the installation of a high-grade military radar in Tobago.

Local political activists like Pearce Robinson have also said that the U.S. has also been allowed to bury huge fuel tanks near the airport, presumably for use by military aircraft.

Officials have not denied this accusation, with the PM maintaining that the close collaboration has much to do with “advancing regional safety, security, and stability.”

“Through this partnership, Trinidad and Tobago has benefited from joint military training exercises, enhanced surveillance capabilities, including the installation of an effective radar system, and collaborative efforts that have contributed to the interdiction of millions of dollars’ worth of illegal narcotics,” the foreign ministry said.

Fearing that actual conflict may

soon break out, the local insurance brokers association has said that it has become necessary and appropriate to warn the country that the effects of war are not covered by local policies. “We have gotten questions in writing from clients, inquiries from clients looking at possibly purchasing coverage for war, terrorism, and sabotage. We also have had individuals asking about it. It is at the forefront of people’s minds, and they are asking if something were to happen, what would go on with my insurance,” the association said in a statement.

Insurance “does not cover loss, damage, cost, or expense directly or indirectly caused by, contributed to by, resulting from, or arising out of war or related perils. This exclusion exists because war losses are catastrophic and unpredictable, making them difficult to price or insure sustainably; reinsurers exclude these perils, preventing local insurers from including them in standard treaty protections; the cost of war damage can be financially devastating and could bankrupt insurers if included under normal coverage and voluntary exposure –– such as participation in armed conflict or residence in declared war zones –– removes the uncertainty required for insurability,” the release said, as the country continues to monitor developments.

the Catholic vote while Trump received 47%. In 2024, Trump’s Catholic support jumped to 58%, while Vice President Kamala Harris received 40%. Among white Catholics, Trump’s share climbed to 61%.

Even more striking, Trump won a majority of the Latino Catholic vote — 53%, up from just 28% in 2020, when 71% of Latino Catholics backed Biden.

Never in modern American history has a Christian voting bloc so decisively empowered a system that now functions as the Saul in their midst.

Jesus was explicit: “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.”

Not processed me.

Not detained me.

Not zip-tied me.

Yet today, many who claim to believe in Christ have embraced

a gospel of exclusion, punishment, and fear — one enforced by badges, batons, detention camps, and barbed wire.

It is the gospel according to ICE. History will not ask who prayed the loudest. It will ask who voted — and what they voted for.

If Jesus were born today — Brown, displaced, undocumented, the gospel according to ICE tells us exactly what would happen next.

This Christmas, the question is no longer whether Jesus would be welcomed. It is whether his own followers would turn him in.

Felicia J. Persaud is the founder and publisher of NewsAmericasNow.com, the only daily syndicated newswire and digital platform dedicated exclusively to Caribbean Diaspora and Black immigrant news across the Americas.

The gospel according to ICE FELICIA PERSAUD

IMMIGRATION KORNER This holiday season, as politicians invoke God, Christianity, and “biblical values” to justify power, a different gospel is being preached across America.

It is not the gospel according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. It is the gospel according to ICE, a gospel that is not written by atheists, but by believers, and enforced in their name.

Across the country, churches are reimagining Nativity scenes not as serene pastoral moments, but as scenes of fear, surveillance, and state violence. In one church in

Evanston, Illinois, baby Jesus lies in a manger wrapped in a silver emergency blanket, his wrists zip-tied, guarded by Roman soldiers wearing vests marked “ICE.” In another Chicago suburb, a sign beside the manger at another church reads, “Due to ICE activity in our community, the Holy Family is in hiding.” In Massachusetts, the Christ child vanished entirely at one church, replaced by a blunt sign: “ICE was here.”

It is not a season of the Christ child but a Season of Saul. The persecution is real. Brown people like Mary, Joseph ,and Jesus — who Christians believed crossed borders to escape persecution — would in today’s ICE gospel be profiled, detained, and deported.

This is not speculation. It is based on the Trump administration’s own

ICE gospel and its policy as laid out in its new National Security Strategy. The administration’s own strategy now frames migration as a threat to be prevented, not a humanitarian reality to be addressed. Immigrants are treated not as neighbors, but as risks, burdens, and intrusions. That language has consequences. It builds cages. It fills tents. It hardens hearts.

And here lies the uncomfortable irony Christians must now confront: Christian voters were not passive observers in 2024. They were decisive actors. Post-election data shows Christians made up 72% of the electorate, giving Donald Trump 56% of their vote — delivering his landslide victory. The shift was especially pronounced among Catholics.

In 2020, Joe Biden won 52% of

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

International

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 15

News

Several African nations included in Trump expansion of travel ban and restrictions

By REBECCA SANTANA Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration announced Tuesday that it was expanding travel restrictions to an additional 20 countries and the Palestinian Authority, doubling the number of nations affected by sweeping limits announced earlier this year on who can travel and emigrate to the U.S. The Trump administration included five more countries, as well as people traveling on documents issued by the Palestinian Authority, to the list of countries facing a full ban on travel to the U.S. and imposed new limits on 15 other countries.

The move is part of ongoing efforts by the administration to tighten U.S. entry standards for travel and immigration, in what critics say unfairly prevents travel for people from a broad range of countries. The administration suggested it would expand the restrictions after the arrest of an Afghan national suspect in the shooting of two National Guard troops over Thanksgiving weekend.

People who already have visas, are lawful permanent residents of the U.S., have certain visa categories such as diplomats or athletes, or whose entry into the country is believed to serve the U.S. interest are all exempt from the restrictions.

It was not immediately clear when the new restrictions would take effect.

In June, President Donald Trump announced that citizens of 12 countries would be banned from coming to the United States and those from seven others would face restrictions. The decision resurrected a hallmark policy of his first term.

At the time, the ban included Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. It also heightened restrictions on visitors from Burundi,

Burundian citizens who work in Uvira, DRC, and could not cross back into their home country due to fighting, cross border into Burundi. (Moses Sawasawa/AP photo)

Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

The list of countries whose citizens are banned from entering the U.S. was expanded on Tuesday by the Republican administration to include Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria. The administration also fully restricted travel on people with Palestinian Authority-issued travel documents, the latest U.S. travel restriction against Palestinians. South Sudan was facing significant travel restrictions already.

An additional 15 countries are also being added to the list of countries facing partial restrictions: Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Ivory Coast, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

The restrictions apply to both people seeking to travel to the U.S. and visitors or to emigrate there.

The Trump administration said in its announcement that many of the countries from which it was restricting travel had “widespread corruption, fraudulent or unreliable civil documents[,] and criminal records” that made it difficult to vet their citizens for travel to the U.S. It also said some countries had high rates of people overstaying their visas, refused to take back their citizens who the U.S. wished to deport or had a “general lack of stability and government control,” which made vetting difficult.

It also cited immigration enforcement, foreign policy, and national security concerns for the move.

The Afghan man accused of shooting the two National Guard troops near the White House has pleaded not guilty to murder and assault charges. In the aftermath of that incident, the administration announced a flurry of immigration restrictions, including further

restrictions on people from those initial 19 countries who were already in the U.S. The news of the expanding travel ban is likely to face fierce opposition from critics who have argued that the administration is using national security concerns to collectively keep out people from a wide range of countries.

“This expanded ban is not about national security but instead is another shameful attempt to demonize people simply for where they are from,” said Laurie Ball Cooper, vice president of U.S. legal programs at the International Refugee Assistance Project.

The Trump administration also upgraded restrictions on some countries — Laos and Sierra Leone — that previously were on the partially restricted list, and in one case — Turkmenistan — said the country had improved enough to warrant easing some restrictions on travelers from that

country. Everything else from the previous travel restrictions announced in June remains in place, the administration said.

The new restrictions on Palestinians come months after the administration imposed limits that make it nearly impossible for anyone holding a Palestinian Authority passport from receiving travel documents to visit the U.S. for business, work, pleasure, or educational purposes. The announcement Tuesday goes further, banning people with Palestinian Authority passports from emigrating to the U.S. In justifying its decision Tuesday, the administration said several “U.S.-designated terrorist groups operate actively in the West Bank or Gaza Strip and have murdered American citizens.”

The administration also said that the recent war in those areas had “likely resulted in compromised vetting and screening abilities.”

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THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Dental care Continued from page 7

elimination, the report found.

“A lot of progress that we’ve gained … in engaging people in oral health care and overall health care … is going to be degraded,” she said.

For Sylvester Nunnery, who helps patients navigate dental insurance claim issues at Harlem United, the policy changes to Medicaid feel especially punitive. He questions the need for the revised eligibility guidelines that require Medicaid recipients to work, go to school, or volunteer for at least 80 hours a month, in a time of increased unemployment.

In addition, he said the legislation’s change to the Medicaid recertification process, which requires beneficiaries to submit paperwork confirming their program eligibility every six months, up from every 12 months, is an unnecessary barrier to care for low-income, underserved populations.

“For some people, it’s just sending in a form,” he said, noting that it is a significant disruption for others when they are already facing financial difficulties. “[It’s going] out of your way to spend four to five hours … to see someone for 10 minutes [who] tells you to go home and bring back these documents another day.”

A push to re-fund community health cen-

Dr. Alexandra Frankel prepares patient for treatment at Harlem United. (Elaine Sanders photo)

ters is the focus of the 2026–2027 legislative Douglas York, Ph.D., president and chief agenda of the Community Health Care Asso- executive officer of Union Community 9.6” Health Center in the Bronx, believes that ciation of New York (CHCANY). The organization is engaging with policymakers to request reinvestment in community health centhe closure of the centers’ anticipated $300 ters is the only path forward. For York, the million annual budget gap through updates value of Medicaid and the role of commuto their Medicaid reimbursement rate. nity health centers in safeguarding people’s

oral health is clear.

“It keeps people healthier. It detects diseases and illnesses earlier. It prevents catastrophic illnesses later,” he said, “so it’s just logical that we make sure there is always a basic oral health benefit for patients in our communities.”

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December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 17

Arts & Entertainment Jazz happenings for New Year’s Eve

By RONALD E. SCOTT Special to the AmNews This 2025 has been quite a year. Our lives and very existences have been challenged by the government. But as my aunt said, “Life is tough, but we are tougher.” We will dance into 2026 more focused, stronger, ready to strategize and mobilize, and here is a listing of New Year’s Eve jazz happenings to help us celebrate.

Bill’s Place (148 West 133rd Street), the only authentic historical speakeasy in Harlem, will celebrate the new year with the swinging Harlem All-Stars and a surprise vocalist, with party favors and New Years Eve cuisine. The celebration kicks off at 10pm; tickets are $100/person. For reservations call 212-281-0777 or visit billsplaceharlem.com.

Brooklyn’s Emmanuel Baptist Church will present a special early New Year’s Eve performance featuring saxophonist Patience Higgins with vocalist Patsy Grant.

The event begins at 5 p.m. and is free to the public. The church is located at 279 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238.

Sistas’ Place (456 Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn, sistasplace.org), where “Music of the Spirit Lives and Culture is Our Weapon,” will bring in the new year with the hard-hittin’ drummer Winard Harper & Friends at 10:30 pm. A champagne toast and traditional New Years Eve dinner will be served after ball drops, followed by recorded music. Admission is $100 per person. For reservations, call 718-398-1766.

Roar In the new year at BrownstoneJAZZ (107 Macon St., Brooklyn) with a swinging live band TBA, party favors, and a champagne toast. Attire is classy festive — you know how they roll in Brooklyn. For complete details visit ticketweb.com.

The Jazz Forum (1 Dixon Lane, Tarrytown, NY) will celebrate New Year’s Eve with featured internationally acclaimed vocalist Sherma Andrews. First set at 7 p.m8:15 p.m. ($100 per person) includes party favors and a champagne toast. Late seating at 9:30 p.m., two sets 10 p.m.-11 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.-12:30 p.m. with party favors and a champagne toast. $150 per person plus $20 minimum. For reservations call 914631-1000 or visit jazzforumarts.org.

Thanks to all of you for taking time to read this weekly column — and even for those who don’t. I am appreciative for your regular support of this publication. All the best in the New Year, stay focused, concerned, consistent, and compassionate. HAPPY 2026!

“Men profess to be lovers of music but for the most part they give no evidence in their opinions and lives that they have heard it. It would not leave them narrow-minded and bigoted.” — Henry David Thoreau

(Pexels photo by Atlantic Ambience)

Patience Higgins (Photo courtesy of the artist)

Bill Saxton (Ron Scott Associates)

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‘Radio City Christmas Spectacular’ celebrates 100 years

BY LINDA ARMSTRONG Special to the AmNews Every year, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular ushers in the holidays, and this year, it does so in an even grander fashion than usual as the Spectacular celebrates 100 years. Recently, to kick things off, Radio City Music Hall was filled with current and former Rockettes, numbering 500 with their families. The event included a marvelous video featuring many of the members from over the decades talking about the experience of being a Rockette. There was such a sense of pride and appreciation in the air.

There was an excitement in the hall as the orchestra was raised into view and the melodies of Christmas music began to fill the air. You could feel yourself choking up as you beheld the projected snowburst on the ceiling.

The numbers that we get to witness are part of this amazing tradition. In “Sleigh Ride,” the Rockettes are Santa’s reindeer and Santa is in command as he travels to New York City and the Music Hall. The gorgeous costumes and brilliant synchronized choreography are a delight to behold. “12 Days of Christmas” is beautifully performed, and “Parade of the Wooden Soldiers” gets the crowd cheering.

One of my favorite moments in the production is “The Nutcracker,” which is marvelously performed. It has a delightful whimsy to it, and the costumes and dancing just warm the heart.

Any time I see it, I can picture my

The Radio City Rockettes.

oldest daughter, when she was little, looking up at it with wonder and happiness. Those memories are so worth keeping, and this show is definitely a part of many family traditions.

“New York at Christmas” is a

The Rockettes in the “Dance of the Frost Fairies.”

dazzling number. Every year, “Here Comes Santa Claus” will definitely put a smile on your face.

“Ragdolls” is incredible to watch.

“Dance of the Frost Fairies” is a spectacular experience. One of the numbers that always brings me

to tears with its beauty and reverence is the “Living Nativity” as it shares the story of Jesus Christ with love, respect, and inspiration — and as always, live animals. The costumes for this number are also magnificent. “Christmas Lights”

completes your journey with this remarkable show and leaves you in the holiday spirit. This is one family tradition I will always strive to keep.

For tickets, visit Rockettes.com/ Christmas.

The Rockettes in “12 Days of Christmas” at Radio City Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall. (Photos courtesy of MSG Entertainment)

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History-making Rockette delivers a powerful memoir

By LOIS ELFMAN Special to the AmNews Growing up in New Jersey, Jennifer Jones discovered her destiny at age nine. At her fourth grade recital, her teacher picked her to be one of the leads. She does not know why she was chosen, because she was very shy.

“After going to rehearsals before school, staying late after school for rehearsals, then to finally doing the show, I came on stage and I was so nervous right before the curtain went up,” Jones recalled. “Then, the curtain lifted and I felt like I was at home.

That was the first time I felt like it was natural for me, but it wasn’t until my parents took me to see ‘The Wiz’ on Broadway that it clicked.”

Her parents loved going to Broadway shows and took Jones and her sister to see “The Wiz,” which she describes as an amazing experience. Seeing Stephanie Mills and Hinton Battle — people who looked like her — on a grand stage with a live orchestra in a Broadway theater, she knew innately that she wanted to do what they did.

“I didn’t know what training was needed or what an audition was; it was just that pure passion of knowing that was what I wanted to do,” Jones said.

She dove into dance lessons to pursue her dream. At 19, her focus was landing a spot in a Broadway show, but another opportunity presented itself: an audition for the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes. She had no knowledge about the dance troupe, but an audition was an opportunity.

“All I knew is that I was very nervous at

Jennifer Jones. (Contributed photo)

auditions, very green in the business, and I needed to get those under my belt,” Jones said. “The audition started at 10 and I got there at 10, but I didn’t realize how many ladies were going to show up. I was going to leave and take my jazz class, but that inner gut feeling told me to stay.”

Casting can be subjective, but Jones feels they saw something in her. In 1987, Jones became the first African American Rockette, bringing her exuberant and elegant dancing to the iconic dance line. Her first job was performing in the Super Bowl XXII halftime show. Later that year, she was hired for the Christmas Spectacular.

“When I said yes to the job, I was getting my groove on,” said Jones. “This is what I was in the city to do, and I was working a professional job. I was very happy.”

She didn’t initially know she was the first African American Rockette, but she gladly accepted a spot on the roster when it was offered. Over her 18 years with the company, there were many wonderful moments, but she also experienced some harsh realities. One time, she went to the costume person and asked for tights that matched her skin color. The request was met with an angry response.

“With change comes resistance,” said Jones.

“There were ladies on the line and people in management who did want a Black Rockette on the line and then there were people who didn’t. It took a lot of courage to ask for skintone tights. It was something that I thought maybe they had never thought of … It was difficult to handle certain situations, and I had to learn who to lean into [to trust] … All I know is I did my best job possible to be the

best Rockette that I could be.

“I loved dancing on that landmark stage and walking out of the backstage door, knowing I was contributing to a family tradition with the Christmas Spectacular.”

Eventually, she did live her Broadway dream in a 2001 revival of “42nd Street.” Jones also appeared in commercials for Delta Air Lines, 1-800-Flowers, and TransUnion.

In 2023, Jones shared her story with young readers through her children’s book On the Line: My Story of Becoming the First African American Rockette (Harper Collins). This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Rockettes, and to mark the occasion, Jones has written a memoir, Becoming Spectacular: The Rhythm of Resilience from the First Af-

rican American Rockette (Amistad, an imprint of Harper Collins). In it, she details her life, from the fateful audition to her debut to her ultimate departure — along with personal details, including relationships, her family, and overcoming colorectal cancer at age 50.

“I hope to inspire people to go after their dreams,” said Jones, who would love to get into judging at dance conventions. “At nine years old, I knew what I wanted to do. Children may have that innate pure passion for something they may love. Never let go of that dream. Even though things may get sidetracked, those are all things helping you to grow. You can shine bright and bring that gift out into the world.” https://www.instagram.com/rockettejenn/

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‘The Baker’s Wife’ is a pure delight!

By LINDA ARMSTRONG Special to the AmNews You only have through this weekend to experience the delightful musical production of “The Baker’s Wife,” stunningly presented at Classic Stage Company through Dec. 21. If you had plans for this weekend, change them! You must experience this musical, which has everything a great musical should — a fabulous cast that can sing their a—s off, incredible music and lyrics, intoxicating acting performances, humor, and is just one of the most “feel good” musicals you will get to experience. This touching, uplifting show is playing at 136 E 13th Street at the Lynn F. Angelson Theater, so book it now! The production, with a book

by Joseph Stein, and brilliant music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, is based on the film “La Femme du Boulanger” by Marcel Pagnol, adapted from “Jean le Bleu” by Jean Giono, and features an engaging choreography by Stephanie Klemons.

“The Baker’s Wife” tells the humorous

story of a village in France that has gone without freshly baked bread due to the death of the village baker. Having freshly baked bread is what the villagers crave with an obsessive passion. When the new baker comes to town, an older man with a very young and beautiful wife, there is more than just his delectable breads and tarts to partake in and behold with admiration and wonder. This is a musical tale about realizing, when it comes to love, what is truly important.

Scott Bakula is absolutely incredible as Aimable the Baker. He has an amazing singing voice, and his character is sweet, naive, and charming. The chemistry between him and Ariana DeBose, who perfectly portrays his young wife, Genevieve, is truly something to witness — theirs is a special type of love, and a complicated attraction, that definitely gets put to the test. DeBose has a voice that will melt your heart like butter on a freshly baked piece of bread. They are joined by an extraordinary cast that matches their intensity,

humor, and timing with deliciously funny performances. The cast includes Nathan Lee Graham, Savannah Lee Birdsong, Samantha Gershman, Hailey Thomas, Arnie Burton, Robert Cuccioli, Alma Cuervo, Judy Kuhn, Sally Murphy, Manu Narayan, Mason Olshavsky, Kevin William Paul, Will Roland, and Steven Rosen. All of their glorious performances raise your expectations and happiness to the top of the charts. Gordon Greenberg’s direction is seamless and so appreciated.

Every aspect of this production is combined tastefully, including the scenic design by Jason Sherwood, costume design

by Catherine Zuber, lighting design by Bradley King, sound design by Jason Crystal, hair and wig design by Tom Watson, orchestrations by David Cullen, music direction and additional arrangements by Charlie Alterman, and music coordinator John Miller.

Make plans to see this “The Baker’s Wife” — you’ll thank me, I promise. Visit classicstage.org for more info.

Ariana DeBose and Scott Bakula in a scene from “The Baker’s Wife” at the Classic Stage Company. (Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman photo)

‘Oedipus’ is outstanding theater

BY LINDA ARMSTRONG Special to the AmNews “Oedipus,” playing at Studio 54 (W. 54th Street), is one of the most meticulously written and performed plays I’ve seen this year. It is a masterpiece, and will grab you and keep you mesmerized. Robert Icke’s adaptation and direction is absolutely mind-boggling to experience as this disturbing, suspenseful drama unfolds before your eyes.

We all know the tragic story of Oedipus.

The question here is how to present this familiar story in a way that builds the suspense and the mystery? This production is executed to perfection and will leave you stunned, amazed, and disturbed. You will know you have seen a dramatic, poignant, and powerful theatrical gem that you will never forget.

This cast brings their A-game from start to finish. Mark Strong is stupendous as Oedipus. His character goes through so much and it’s interesting to watch his world collapse in the course of just one day. In this adaptation, he is a politician who is looking at a landslide victory, but before that can happen, omens and revelations alter his entire being, his identity of self, and his perception of the world.

His pain is palpable.

He is married to Jocasta, who is devastatingly, brilliantly portrayed by Lesley Manville. Her character loves her husband and family, and will support him in his political dreams. To watch the chemistry and the vivid, physical passion between the two of them is engrossing. It is not hard to believe that they are reprising these roles after performing them in London. They seem to

Mark Strong and Lesley Manville in “Oedipus” at Studio 54. (Julieta Cervantes photo)

have managed to develop an immense flow between their characters.

The supporting cast members are also outstanding. Bhasker Patel is endearing as Corin, the faithful family servant who hides a secret. Oedipus and Jocasta have three children — Antigone, Eteocles, and Polyneices — who are stunningly played

by Olivia Reis, Jordan Scowen, and James Wilbraham. Samuel Brewer plays Teiresias,

a stranger who comes to see Oedipus and brings a warning of the tragedy ahead. John Carrol Lynch is dynamic as Creon, Jocasta’s brother. Anne Reid is powerful as Merope, Oedipus’s adoptive mother; her character is troubled and has vital information to share. Teagle F. Bougere plays the Driver and leaves a lasting impression — his is a crucial part, even though small. Ani Mesa-Perez is engaging as Lichas, Oedipus’s

campaign aide. The rest of the cast includes Brian Thomas Abraham, Denise Cormier, Karl Kenzler, and Oliver Rowland-Jones.

Every creative facet of this production is engrossing, including scenic design by Hildegard Bechtler, costume design by Wojciech Dziedzic, lighting design by Natasta Chivers, sound design by Tom Gibbons, and video design by Tal Yarden.

For tickets, visit oedipustheplay.com.

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 21

AmNews FOOD Talking SCHOP! Choose Joy, Luck Will Follow hell as I write it. My fingers have not been perched over this keyboard, nor has the spirit inspired me to do so in a year, one of most difficult years in my adult life.

FOOD EDITOR, @SCHOPNYC the Plagued with injury, surgeries (yes, plural), recovery, loss (rest in peace to my first fur son, Shhh. If you are very quiet, you might Angus Bear Harris), and all of the emotionhear the faint sounds of creaks and squeaks al, physical, and life-in-general distress that as you read this because they are loud as comes with it, I am choosing the silver linings

KYSHA HARRIS

Total Time: Servings:

of 2025 in place of its lived experience. They are self-awareness, gratitude, determination, capability, and general badassery.

There have been many lows over this last year, lows in which it would be easy to wallow. However, with the help of friends, family, neighbors, colleagues, my fur children, therapy, doctors, surgeons, insurance, and meds (for both body AND mind),

I made the active choice to choose joy. Let me say it again: Choose Joy! No, it’s not the easiest choice, but it will get you to the other side of a moment in time, faster.

Now, luck for 2026? I will make the ubiquitous Hoppin’ John (recipe below); howis-in-eva, I will continue to choose joy, first, knowing luck follows as the reward for doing so.

1 hour 30 minutes 6-8

INGREDIENTS • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 2 cups onion, diced • 2 cups celery, diced • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional) • 3 large cloves garlic, chopped • 1 pound smoked meat product — turkey wing, ham hock, or thick ham steak cut in half-inch pieces • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and picked over • 4 cups low sodium chicken stock, plus more if needed • 2 bay leaves • 2-3 stems of fresh thyme • cooked long-grain rice prepared with chicken broth and butter • chopped scallion • hot sauce of choice

Bowl of dry black eyed peas ready for Hoppin’ John (Kysha Harris photos)

Hoppin’ John aromatics and smoked meat in the pot

PREPARATION 1. Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Once hot, add olive oil, onion, and celery. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 4 minutes until onions are translucent. Add garlic and crushed red pepper and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the smoked meat product, black-eyed peas, stock, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the pot to a boil.

2. Once the pot comes to a boil, taste for seasoning. Keep in mind, the flavor will concentrate as it cooks, so do not over salt. Reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 40 minHoppin’ John’s sister, Them Greens, at the ready from the utes, stirring occasionally, until the crockpot Hoppin’ John and Them Greens: Siblings In Luck peas are creamy and tender. If the liquid evaporates, add more boiling water or stock so as not to drop the add the meat back to the pot. Taste and Happy New Year, happy eating, and on Instagram, @SCHOPnyc and on Facetemperature of the pot. readjust seasonings. thanks for reading! book, @SCHOPnyc.

3. Remove bay leaves and thyme stems 4. Serve over cooked rice and garnish Questions, comments, requests, feedand discard. If using a bone-in smoked with scallions and hot sauce.

Kysha Harris is a chef, food writer and back, invitations! Email us at AmNewsmeat product, remove it from the pot, editor, culinary producer, consultant, and FOOD@SCHOPnyc.com. Follow us on remove the meat from the bone, chop … and don’t forget to make them owner of SCHOP!, a personalized food ser- Instagram and Facebook @NYAmNewsinto bite-sized pieces if needed, and greens, too! vice in NYC for over 23 years. Follow her FOOD.

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Ten Intriguing Television Shows from 2025

(L-R) Mary Steenburgen, Ted Danson in “Man on the Inside” (Colleen E. Hayes/Netflix photo)

(L-R) Thuso Mbedu, Mark Ruffalo in “Task” (Peter Kramer/HBO photo)

By MARK WINSTON GRIFFITH Special to the AmNews

Tramell Tillman in “Severance” (Apple TV+ photo)

David Gyasi in “The Diplomat” (Liam Daniel/Netflix photo)

subtle sense of humor that make this show so special. Bonus: Seeing Danson in romantic scenes with his real-life wife, Mary You’ve heard me say it before: “10 Best” Steenburgen. lists are overrated. Instead of claiming cinematic omniscience, I try to help you be 9: “Task” (Drama limited series, HBO Max) a more discerning viewer. Below are ten Intrigue Factor: Crime Dad vs. Cop Dad shows with a certain je ne sais quoi that I think are worth checking out. Many comSet in the rural, blue collar outskirts of ments are taken from my earlier AmNews Philadelphia, “Task” is a family drama reviews. folded into a crime thriller. What emerges is a haunting symmetry between Tom and 10: “Man on the Inside” (Comedy series, Robbie, two single fathers whose personal Season 2, Netflix) and professional lives are marked by family Intrigue Factor: Who-Done-It for the 70 trauma, intra-squad tensions, and snitchand older set. es. At its best, “Task” interrogates thorny themes like familial loyalty and what it Most prestige-level shows worth watch- takes to be a true head of the household. ing are heavy on graphic violence, sex, It sensitively travels the faultlines of intercursing and drugs — which, honest- racial adoption without referencing race; ly, who am I kidding, are my jam. But I’m masculinity and patriarchy without calling also here for “nice,” innocuous-but-quali- out gender; and privilege without being exty-made streaming shows. There are Apple plicit about any social hierarchy. And, while TV+’s “Ted Lasso” and “Shrinking,” and Tom and Robbie seldom rise adequately to ABC/Hulu’s “Abbott Elementary” at the the crises they are faced with, their respectop of the heap, and now there’s “Man on tive class upbringings pre-determine their The Inside,” starring Ted Danson as a wid- divergent fates. ower and former literal builder of bridges who has found a new lease on life when he 8) “The Diplomat” (Drama/Comedy stumbles upon a career as a private detec- series, Season 3, Netflix) tive. Season 1 should have been nominatIntrigue Factor: Making Diplomacy Sexy ed for an Emmy. Season 2 has moved on from the charming and seldom explored “The Diplomat” is the perfect cocktail of contours of an elder care facility that made televised palace intrigue: Smart governSeason 1 so endearing, but Ted Danson re- ment machinations and tricky plot twists turns with the same zaddy charisma and with dashes of frisky comedy and sexual

tension. In short, “The Diplomat” is fun, and season 3 maintains the same level of quality that put it on this past year’s Emmy nominee list.

Keri Russell stars in the title role as Kate Wyler, a highly respected veteran of the foreign service. In the first season, Kate becomes the American ambassador to the United Kingdom, only to discover that she is being groomed and positioned for bigger things by higher ups and her insufferably meddling husband, Hal Wyler (Rufus Sewall). Sewall is charming while also being creepy, while David Gyasi is both commanding and vulnerable as Austin Dennison, the UK Foreign Service and Kate’s mutual lust interest. The likes of Rory Kinnear, Allison Janney, and Michael McKean are also on hand to make the quick-fire script pop and glisten.

(L-R) Michael Cooper Jr., Lovie Simone in “Forever” (Elizabeth Morris/Netflix photo)

ing lurking behind every door. This inventiveness, reliably, keeps viewers off balance and clueless about what’s coming next, and the Season 2 finale will leave you smacking your lips in anticipation of the next season.

6) “Forever” (Drama limited series, Netflix) Intrigue Factor: The fierce urgency of Black teenage love It’s rare to find fully realized Black teenage love on screen. Created by television veteran Mara Brock Akil, whose credits include “Girlfriends,” “Moesha,” and “The Jamie Foxx Show,” “Forever” doesn’t so much escape the dictates of the teenage romance genre, as much as endows it with flesh-and-blood and a cultural currency that Black audiences, in particular, can recognize and appreciate.

7) “Severance” (Drama series, Season 2, 5) “Bel-Air” (Drama Series, Season 4, Peacock) Apple TV+) Intrigue Factor: Fresh Prince, Seriously Intrigue Factor: “So, an innie, an outtie and a sheep walk into a bar …”

If only I could have been in the room The most satisfying element of “Sever- when the creators of “Bel-Air” had the ance” is its quirky originality. Beyond the bright idea to turn the goofy fan favorite, broad category of science fiction, “Sever- “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” into a soapy ance” doesn’t fit neatly into any television behind-the-scenes look at wealthy Black genre and thus is not bound by many for- Excellence. As it turns out, you can’t spend mulas or narrative conventions. In partic- five minutes watching this show without ular, the Lumon Industries building, the tripping over a cliché or getting smothsetting for much of the action, is a surre- ered with pro-Blackity-Black moralism al labyrinth of fluorescent lights, sterile and propaganda.

But “Bel-Air” is all heart and creates hallways, and twisted psycho-engineer-

A storylines that are as engaging as they are preposterous. It’s a Black fantasy that is rooted in Black realness. More importantly, it does what few other streaming series do, which is it tells a complete story with a natural and satisfying arc. If nothing else, “Bel-Air” is about the (mostly male) teenage ego and superego being constantly interrupted by the id. It’s about high school life against the backdrop of a supportive Black family and community. And unlike its prototype, “All American” which started in high school and shamelessly wandered into the college and post-college life of its protagonists, “Bel-Air” comes to a close shortly after high school graduation.

The last season wraps up every imaginable loose end and the main characters are so fervently anchored in Black self-love that, no matter your race, you can’t help but get misty and throw up your fist in affirmation every time these Black angels hug one another and get their wings. But remember, the main character’s name is literally Will Smith. So (stop reading now if you want to avoid a spoiler), perhaps the most satisfying payoff comes in the last minutes of the season finale when a special celebrity guest appears as Will’s grown self, offers him adult

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THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS & E N T E R T A I N

reassurance, but confesses that he (Limited documentary series, will “f*** up” later in life. Priceless. Netflix) Intrigue Factor: When Fiddy 4) “The Perfect Neighbor” (Film, comes for Diddy Netflix) Intrigue Factor: When Karen “The Reckoning” does for Sean comes packing.

“Puffy” Combs what “Surviving R. Kelly” did for the ‘90s R&B “The Perfect Neighbor” was star. It takes all of the rumors, only in limited release on the big sexual assaults reports, and genscreen for a week, so I am includ- eral fiendishness that have been ing it in the television category. associated with a pop culture “The Perfect Neighbor” recounts icon, and matches it up with the events that lead to the June some pretty damning receipts.

2023 fatal shooting in Ocala, Flor- The fact that this four-part docuida of Ajike “AJ” Owens, a 35-year- mentary was executive produced old Black mother of four, at the by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson hands of Susan Lorincz, a white — Puffy’s rival in the rap muwoman. The conceit of “The Per- sic-cum-business mogul game fect Neighbor” is that it employs — adds an element of video a near-total reliance on strung- drive-by to its spotty, if not entogether found footage from sur- viable, investigative journalism. veillance technology.

The documentary does little to At first, this seems to be yet an- build or fully explain the specifother demoralizing tale of a racist ic criminal case for which Puffy homicide that the American was recently on trial. And while criminal justice system cynical- some of the stories about Puffy ly dresses up and justifies as “self make you clutch your pearls, defense.” But the story eventual- the parade of former music and ly pivots into a quiet observation business associates who line up of Florida’s use of its “Stand Your to accuse Puffy of sexual assault, Ground” law and reminds us just corruption, and soullessness are how fickle, arbitrary, and unreli- easy to believe for anyone who able the promise of American jus- grew up hearing about Puffy’s tice continues to be. exploits. Who among us, for instance, hasn’t already conclud3) “Sean Combs: The Reckoning” ed that Puffy was responsible

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for Tupac’s death? But to learn that all the “Reckoning’s” unflattering personal footage of Puffy (recorded around the time of his recent arrest) was not only commissioned by Puffy himself, but was made available because of his failure to pay the videographer, felt poetic. And to have a Crip gang leader drop the bombshell that Puffy paid him to assassinate Tupac, carried Puffy’s reputation from sketchy to downright deplorable.

the Empire looks like a plausible MAGA future in its suppression of human rights, control over the media, and its authoritarian blunt force. It’s no wonder that Disney only tried to get away with two seasons, so catch it while you can. You will never see the land of Mickey Mouse be more subversive.

1) “Adolescence” (Limited Series, Netflix) Intrigue Factor: The Kids Ain't Alright.

I challenge you to find a more 2) “Andor” (Drama series, Season sublime tour de force of television 2, Disney +) Intrigue Factor: Disney gets all story, form, and character development. From its explosive openanti-fascist ing scene, to its heart-wrenching What makes “Andor” worth finale, “Adolescence” is an unwatching is that it’s a less-than- flinching social autopsy of a teenglamorous take on the process of age murder.

A 13-year-old boy is accused revolution building, the sacrifices that come with political radicaliza- of killing a girl from his school. tion, and the moral compromises In four, one-take episodes, the made on the road to being a true camera retraces the steps of a believer. Until now, it wasn’t only toxic teen culture as it wends the action in the “Star Wars” fran- its way through a working class chise that unfolded light-years family, school, community and away. The politics felt far removed criminal justice system. If you’re a as well. Even in the second and last parent, be warned. “Adolescence” season of “Andor,” there is thank- is all the more emotionally harfully little of the hocus pocus of rowing because of its realism, its The Force, and the Empire’s op- depictions of violence, and the pression feels closer to home depths of rage and sadness it is and more familiar. Specifically, willing to plumb.

(L-R) Olly Sholotan, Jabari Banks, Jordan L. Jones in “Bel-Air” (Anne Marie Fox/ PEACOCK photo)

An image of the late Ajike Owens surrounded by mourners in “The Perfect Neighbor” (Netflix photo)

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 23

Genevieve O’Reilly in “Andor” (Disney+ photo)

(L-R) Christopher Wallace The Notorious B.I.G., Sean Combs in “Sean Combs: The Reckoning” (Netflix photo)

(L-R) Kaine Davies, Ashley Walters in “Adolescence” (Netflix photo)

24 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 A

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THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS & E N T E R T A I N

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J.D. Allen, Jazz Gallery, Craig Harris, 2026 Coltrane Festival

It was midnight in the afternoon, deep in sleep, I met a goddess walking on the Nile, she was lost in the moment of now, entangled in a breathtaking sound. I thought it was a babbling brook but no, it was beautiful dancing rhythms, holding us hostage, listening to this mesmerizing sound. A big bold tenor sound that held us in rhapsody … Wait , don’t move, it’s coming from a mortal, she asked “how can such intoxicating bliss rattle my soul….”

SHHHHH! Listen, it’s J.D. Allen playing from his latest album Love Letters (The Ballad Sessions) (Savant, 2025). “Why,” she asked, “are jazz musicians, if that’s the correct term, always intent on recording albums of all ballads? Is it to prove they can to the public, or is it to expose their inner spirit that can only be experienced in the beauty of rhythmic harmonies?!” I had to hold the bed tight, the goddess, she disappeared into the dawn of Allen’s captivating ballads. And I remained motionless floating in Love Letters (The Ballad Sessions).

Love Letters consists of eight well-traveled standards from the Great American Songbook that Allen has effortlessly tagged as his own with his outrageous bold tenor tone. This is the nineteenth recording Allen has recorded for Savant, as a leader, since 2012, all critically acclaimed efforts. This is his second all-ballads album; his first was Love Stone (Savant, 2018). Allen plays outside the realm of jazz, hip swing that allows him to stand apart from the rest.

Some years ago, a young Allen stood in the midst of a stage after 1 a.m. blowing high and low as many folks milled about during this after-hours jam session. Stanley Clarke even breezed by me at this Detroit Jazz Festival in Allen’s hometown. As Allen played looking like one of those hip jazz cats from the 1950s, the gentleman standing next to me inquired “who is that kid?” Proud to share my awareness with this legend, I said “J.D. Allen,” he responded “that kid is going places,” and the NEA Jazz Master Buster Williams knows talent.

Allen’s star continues to orbit further out into the stratosphere. Love Letters (The Ballad Sessions) is on my list as one of the best albums of 2025.

As The Jazz Gallery continues its 30th anniversary special concert series, be prepared for an enthralling journey on Dec. 17-20 with the imaginative pianist and composer Gerald Clayton and the inventive resourcefulness of guitarist Emmanuel Michael, bassist Harish Raghavan, and drummer Tyshawn Sorey (who won 2024 Pulitzer Prize in Music). Some groups play well together; this talented quartet plays like a

JD Allen (Bart Babinsk photo)

Craig Harris (Ron Scott Associates)

Ferrari roaring in precision with improvisational abandonment.

Music is always front and center at The Jazz Gallery, not food being hurried around on trays or clicking glasses colliding with ice cubes. Young aspiring and established artists play inside the music not so much what they were taught, but organically from their creative being. Enjoy their inthe-moment journey. For tickets visit jazzgallery.org.

On Dec. 26-27, trombone and seashell in-

novator Steve Turre makes a special guest appearance with the Vincent Herring Quintet. Rolling Stone called Turre “perhaps the leading trombonist of this generation.”

His storied career includes work alongside music legends Ray Charles, Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Woody Shaw, and a longtime member of the Saturday Night Live Band (WNBC-TV).

On Dec. 27, the creative trombonist, composer and cultural warrior Craig Harris will perform “Five on the Black Hand Side,” a

live music concert to honor five influential men in the trombonist’s life who are now ancestors: Brother Leroy Baylor, the Honorable Bill Perkins, Keith Thompson, Lloyd Williams, and Ted Wilson.

In tribute to these five Harlem giants, Harris and one of his standing ensembles, Nation of Imagination, will perform his complete suite of “Harlem State of Mind” at Mount Morris Ascension Presbyterian Church (15 Mount Morris Park West @ 122nd Street), 7-8:30 p.m.

For many years, these distinguished men served as big brothers who advised and guided Craig and many others in committing themselves and their art to uplifting and inspiring our beloved community.

It is presented on the second day of Kwanzaa where the principle of KUJICHAGULIA (Self Determination), will be celebrated through remembrance and advocacy in this free-to-the public event. Offered in collaboration with Community Works, New Heritage Theater, and Harlem Jazz Boxx. Visit harlemjazzboxx.com.

The Countdown 2026 Coltrane Festival, NOW through Dec. 30, features a joyous blast of celebrated jazz artists packing bundles of inspired jazzy delights. No sleigh, no reindeer, just bold harmonies dancing in straight-ahead jazz. (Or is it, hard bop?)

No matter, it’s the holiday season — time to swing!

Smoke’s 13th annual Coltrane Festival will present the Ravi Coltrane Quintet, Dec. 17-21. Ravi, who has become an inventive saxophonist and composer playing outside his father and mother’s massive shadows, will be joined by trumpeter Jonathan Finlayson, guitarist Adam Rogers, bassist Chris Lightcap, and drummer Elé Howell. Ravi makes a highly anticipated encore appearance to elevate the festival dedicated to his father once again, with an intuitive quintet. In over two decades, Ravi has worked as a sideman to many and recorded noteworthy albums for himself and others, including McCoy Tyner, Elvin Jones, Dave Liebman, Joe Lovano, Terence Blanchard, and Geri Allen.

Countdown 2026 continues on Dec. 24-25 with jazz notables trumpeter Eddie Henderson plus the Vincent Herring Quintet featuring pianist George Cables, bassist John Webber, drummer Willie Jones, III, and Herring on alto saxophone. The welldressed, dapper Henderson is considered jazz royalty, and continues to demonstrate his mastery of the instrument into his ‘80s.

Henderson is featured alongside old friend and fellow legend, pianist George Cables, who is highly ranked as one of the great jazz pianists of our time. Over the years, Herring has proven to be an outstanding alto sax player, composer and bandleader — an innovating source.

The Countdown 2026 Coltrane Festival grooves on with more exceptional musicians until December 30. For complete listings. visit smokejazz.com.

Survivors Continued from page 3

and severe domestic violence were often discharged but returned to lives that had been fundamentally destabilized by trauma, poverty, and a lack of support.

“Their lives were shattered,” Boccellari told THE CITY in June. “We began looking at them and what was going on.”

Some were afraid to leave their homes, spiraling into bankruptcy or homelessness, she said.

“So we decided to try to figure out what we could do about it,” Boccellari said.

Many victims are given a business card with a number for the local mental health clinic, she added.

“That approach doesn’t work,” she said.

Initially, Boccellari began an initiative to offer crime victims bedside mental health treatment while they were recovering from their injuries.

Most of the people would say “I’m not crazy,” she recalled, citing stigma around psychological care.

Making things more challenging, one of the symptoms of PTSD is that people want to avoid talking about what happened — because it overwhelms them and sometimes triggers panic attacks, she said.

So she expanded the approach by meeting with people and asking what they needed.

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS “They wanted help in filing a police report or talking to the district attorney or basic things like safe housing or with childcare,” she recalled.

In New York City, Speaker Adams, whose time in office wanes, wants her successor to keep the hubs open and expand the initiative.

The City Council has already committed to opening a fifth trauma recovery center in Jamaica, Queens, as part of the recently approved Jamaica Neighborhood Plan.

But the National Alliance report urges city and state leaders to go further, calling for permanent baseline funding of at least $1.4 million per center and expanded sites in neighborhoods with high rates of violence — including areas in Manhattan that currently lack any trauma recovery center.

The report notes that 67% of the city’s TRCs currently have 10 to 20 people on waitlists “When we address the unresolved trauma left behind by violence, we can improve safety in our communities and throughout our entire city,” Adams said. “That is why TRCs must be a pillar of our essential public safety infrastructure.”

“This is only possible,” she added, “if leaders in our city and state commit, as this City Council has, to deeper and sustained investment in these centers and their life-saving services.”

B.R.O. Continued from page 3

Ruff, who essentially grew up with Cooper, said that he was beyond honored to receive an award from his long-time friend and brother-in-arms. “I’m actually kinda shy about these things, but it’s Barry.

You can’t say no. We came up together.”

Floyd spoke about how special it was for him to receive the resiliency award and thanked the support system of dedicated friends he had as a justice-impacted youth. He decided to become a sports entrepreneur to pour back into his community and be the representation he often didn’t see on and off the field. “I served 10 years in state prison. I went from being a collegiate athlete on a full scholarship.

But within 10 months, I was in Miami State prison,” said Floyd. “At my darkest

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 25

times, I didn’t know what to do. I was drowning in failure, and I didn’t know how to deal with adversity. I spent several years with no hope, but I had a friend that for 10 years visited me.”

“Partners and brothers that are out there creating change in our communities that is so much needed,” said Espinoza. “And so, to the BRO Experience, you have an ally, you have a brother, you’ve got a fellow comrade in transforming our communities with the work that we’re doing. I see you.”

“It started out as a coworker space. As I really saw that there weren’t spaces that were designed specifically for Black men to just be,” said Lindor. “And there are so many spaces that we have to fit in, but there are no spaces that fit us.

Other performances to cap off the night included spoken word artist Cyrus Aaron, musician Greg Banks, DJFame BK, and saxophonist John Robert Bonhomme.

BRO Experience Foundation, Barry Cooper, and youth members of the organization on stage at the 2025 Extraordinary Men Awards on Dec. 11. (Ariama C. Long photo)

YOU CAN’T REWIND A CRASH. Slow down.

26 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Education Rod Paige, first Black U.S. Education Dept. secretary dies at 92

By SAFIYAH RIDDLE Associated Press Rod Paige, an educator, coach and administrator who rolled out the nation’s landmark No Child Left Behind law as the first African American to serve as U.S. education secretary, died Dec. 9.

Former President George W. Bush, who tapped Paige for the nation’s top federal education post, announced the death in a statement but did not provide further details. Paige was 92.

Under Paige’s leadership, the Department of Education implemented No Child Left Behind policy that in 2002 became Bush’s signature education law and was modeled on Paige’s previous work as a schools superintendent in Houston. The law established universal testing standards and sanctioned schools that failed to meet certain benchmarks.

“Rod was a leader and a friend,” Bush said in his statement. “Unsatisfied with the status quo, he challenged what we called ‘the soft bigotry of low expectations.’ Rod worked hard to make sure that where a child was born didn’t determine whether they could succeed in school and beyond.”

Roderick R. Paige was born to two teachers in the small Mississippi town of Monticello of roughly 1,400 inhabitants.

The oldest of five siblings, Paige served a two-year stint the U.S. Navy before becoming a football coach at the high school, and then junior college levels.

Within years, Paige rose to head coach of Jackson State University, his alma mater and a historically Black college in the Mississippi capital city.

There, his team became the first — with a 1967 football game — to integrate Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium, once an all-white venue.

After moving to Houston in the mid1970s to become head coach of Texas Southern University, Paige pivoted from the playing field to the classroom and education — first as a teacher, and then as administrator and eventually the dean of its college of education from 1984 to 1994.

Amid growing public recognition of his pursuit of educational excellence, Paige rose to become superintendent of the Houston Independent School District, then one of the largest school districts in the country.

He quickly drew the attention of Texas’ most powerful politicians for his

sweeping educational reforms in the diverse Texas city. Most notably, he moved to implement stricter metrics for student outcomes, something that became a central point for Bush’s 2000s bid for president. Bush — who later would dub himself the “Education President” — frequently praised Paige on the campaign trail for the Houston reforms he called the “Texas Miracle.”

And once Bush won election, he tapped Paige to be the nation’s top education official.

As education secretary from 2001 to 2005, Paige emphasized his belief that high expectations were essential for childhood development.

“The easiest thing to do is assign them a nice little menial task and pat them on the head,” he told the Washington Post at the time. “And that is precisely what we don’t need. We need to assign high expectations to those people, too. In fact, that may be our greatest gift: expecting them to achieve, and then supporting them in their efforts to achieve.”

While some educators applauded the law for standardizing expectations regardless of student race or income, others complained for years about what they consider a maze of redundant and unnecessary tests and too much “teaching to the test” by educators.

In 2015, House and Senate lawmakers agreed to pull back many provisions from “No Child Left Behind,” shrinking the Education Department’s role in setting testing standards and preventing the federal agency from sanctioning schools that fail to improve. That year, then-President Barack Obama signed the sweeping education law overhaul, ushering in a new approach to accountability, teacher evaluations and the way the most poorly performing schools are pushed to improve.

After serving as education secretary, Paige returned to Jackson State University a half century after he was a student there, serving as the interim president in 2016 at the age of 83.

Into his 90s, Paige still publicly expressed deep concern, and optimism, about the future of U.S. education. In an opinion piece appearing in the Houston Chronicle in 2024, Paige lifted up the city that helped propel him to national prominence, urging readers to “look to Houston not just for inspiration, but for hard-won lessons about what works, what doesn’t and what it takes to shake up a stagnant system.”

Former Education Secretary Rod Paige. (Department of Education photo)

“Rod was a leader and a friend. Unsatisfied with the status quo, he challenged what we called ‘the soft bigotry of low expectations.’

Rod worked hard to make sure that where a child was born didn’t determine whether they could succeed in school and beyond.”

—Former President George W. Bush

BNY Continued from page 5

and her experience at fragrance trade shows.

“I was using fragrance to help me figure out, not only who I am, but who I aspire to be,” Waters said.

While Waters was financially comfortable, she desired to dive deeper into the fragrance space and the retail side specifically and was curious what made customers choose certain products. She began freelancing as a fragrance specialist for Coty beauty products at stores like Bloomingdale’s. She then moved to working for By Kilian, getting boutique experience at Saks Fifth Avenue.

In 2017, after the company was sold, Waters opted to create her own space, MUSE, which would fulfill that need she knew existed. With the support of different friends she made in the industry and investors, Waters began to build it out and used her close friend’s family-owned brownstone on Convent Avenue. She notes that the Black consumer has always made a large swath of fragrance sales, but was never included in the business side.

“They took our money, but they weren’t making us a part of it,” Waters said.” I just wanted to change that in my own little way, which was through retail.”

Navigating the entrepreneurial journey as a Black woman and creating a new space was not without challenges.

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS “For me, who wanted to carve out a different space, there was no black owned retail destination that focused on luxury, niche, and artistic fragrance,” Waters said. “I didn’t have a path of, how does entrepreneurship work? I had to figure that all out, how to market and how to open an LLC.” Once the brownstone was sold in 2019, Waters would discover her current space on Edgecombe Ave. Working with distribution companies as well as indie brands to acquire her inventory, Waters has always been intentional about including several Black-owned fragrances, including Zernell Gillie and brands like Coco de Mer currently. Earlier this month, she hosted a showcase with the Black Girl Perfume Club, highlighting fragrances rooted in Black culture.

After eight years, Waters says she never imagined how MUSE would grow into what it has become. With over 7,000 followers on social media, Waters says more and more people are discovering and spreading the word about the unique MUSE experience.

“It’s become a very community-based fragrance destination, not just for New Yorkers, but from people all over.” Waters recently had customers from Brazil who had heard about the company and wanted to visit.

Moving into 2026, Waters says she is looking to make MUSE even bigger, including a block party and a podcast, and potentially creating a MUSE retreat house incorporating practices like meditation, as well as a possible MUSE fragrance down the line.

When I own a home, I’ll invite the entire family over.

Let’s work together to make it possible.

Visit mtb.com/firsthouse or call 1-800-936-0969 to get started today.

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 27

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28 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Health

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams calls for action in city’s mental health policy

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams speaks outside One Police Plaza to fire officers who killed Queens teen Win Rozario during mental health crisis. (Tandy Lau photo)

By TANDY LAU AmNews Staff In November, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams continued with efforts to look into the city’s mental health services dating back to when he took office in 2019. His newest report includes a letter addressed directly to Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and the incoming new administration about these findings.

“We have now been through two mayors since my first report, and seen far too little progress in the years since the original report was released,” Williams wrote.

“With the coming of a new era in City Hall comes a new opportunity for the deeper systemic change New Yorkers desperately need. This third installment of our review of mental health infrastructure in our city finds a need for action on existing proposals, as well as new initiatives which would help transform our ability to provide safety and support for people in greatest need, and for the entire city.”

The original 2019 report was the first major policy study Williams put out when taking office after several high-profile police killings during mental health-related encounters at the time. A follow-up published in 2022 requested that Mayor Eric Adams implement reforms ignored by his predecessor, Bill de Blasio. Mamdani, who the Public Advocate endorsed this past election, plans on developing a Department of Community Safety to oversee an

“unprecedented City investment in mental health services.” In total, $362.8 million is proposed toward such an investment.

Despite Williams’s frequent public opposition to the outgoing Adams administration’s reliance on enforcement in addressing mental health concerns, his report noted some marked improvements since 2019 and 2022, when he filed the last update. However, the findings argue that the need for a “continuum of care” — long-term solutions involving consistent treatment and permanent housing beyond taking people off the street shortterm — remains.

For example, the first 2019 report called for an increase in the number and funding of city’s safe havens — temporary housing sites with more specialized services and lower barrier programs than traditional shelters. Williams reported just 667 beds back then. In 2022, he reported an increase of up to 4,000. This year, the Adams administration added another 900 beds as part of a $650 million plan to combat street homelessness.

“The Department of Social Services is committed to enhancing the services and supports available to the most vulnerable New Yorkers, including those experiencing mental health challenges,” said a Department of Social Services spokesperson in response. “It’s why we have invested heavily in specialized low-barrier shelter beds, opening more than 1,300 such beds under this administration and ensuring every

borough contains at least one DHS Dropin Center.

“As a result of these efforts, we have been able to connect more New Yorkers who were previously experiencing unsheltered homelessness to permanent housing year after year. In 2024, nearly 1,200 individuals were connected to homes from low-barrier sites, and we are on pace to surpass that mark in 2025.”

However, the update shows that most clients still leave the safe haven system without permanent housing. Not all return to the street — according to the Gothamist, some end up in substance use treatment, and others with family. Still, barriers to housing broadly prevent this “continuum of care,” even with major safe haven gains.

The Public Advocate’s Office said the Adams administration’s approach varied across the board, with both progress like the increased safe havens and concerns like pushing for involuntary commitments and homeless sweeps. Generally, the public’s cultural awareness of mental health came a long way since 2019, which the office credits for shifting policies.

Adams successfully pushed for expanding involuntary commitments last year at the state level, lowering the bar for the city to remove someone for a mental health evaluation. The Public Advocate provided a new recommendation this year for “forceful oversight to prevent abuses, to determine whether people in the field can accurately, fairly, equitably assess individuals under

the new criteria and provide help rather than perpetuate harm.”

Back in 2019, Williams recommended researching and implementing a non-police response for “non-criminal” mental health emergencies. He specifically pointed to the Crisis Assistance Helping Out on the Streets (CAHOOTS) program, then operating in Eugene, Ore., as a potential model.

In 2021, the city launched the B-HEARD pilot for “non-criminal” mental health responses, but the program does not guarantee a civilian response for a qualifying call, often due to outlying circumstances such as inadequate staffing. The most recent report highlights improvements in B-HEARD, but the pilot remains far from a comprehensive citywide program.

Mamdani drew inspiration from CAHOOTS for the Department of Community Safety and intends to overhaul B-HEARD under the proposed agency and expand the program to at least a team in every neighborhood, with several in those with the highest needs.

The most recent update also follows evolving recommendations for what role the NYPD, particularly neighborhood coordination officers (NCOs), will play in mental health responses. It points to Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who Mamdani will retain, establishing the Quality of Life Division earlier this year. The unit’s response to homeless encampments and public drug use draws concerns for “broken windows policing” tied to discriminatory policing.

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Religion & Spirituality El Hajj Elbert Shamsid-Deen Aug. 29, 1939 - Dec. 5, 2025

By AMNEWS STAFF Elbert Shamsid-Deen, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, community member, passed away on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. A longtime member of the Masjid Malcolm Shabazz on W. 116th Street in Harlem (formerly Temple No. 7 in the Nation of Islam) he was instrumental in — among many other things — helping to organize Harlem’s yearly African American Day Parade. The obituary below was provided by his family.

Elbert George Dean — affectionately known as “The El” — was born on Aug. 29, 1939 in Charleston, South Carolina, to George “Bubba” Dean and Cherry Lou Edgefield. He and his three brothers were raised in a modest home in the Ashley River area by their mother, their grandmother Eloise, and their beloved Aunt Thelma. Their love, structure, and strength shaped the foundation of who he would become.

At ten years old, Elbert, Israel, and Lorenzo moved to Harlem to live with their father and stepmother, Mable. They later settled in the Patterson Houses in the Bronx, where Elbert formed lifelong friendships and became known for his loyalty, sense of humor, and talent on the basketball court with a neighborhood team called The Clowns. There, he met his first wife, Sandra Adams, with whom he shared six children. Even after their separation, Sandra remained an important part of the blended family, a reflection of the harmony and respect he always cultivated.

From a young age, Elbert showed an unshakable work ethic and a gift for speaking truth plainly. People sought his insight because he didn’t just offer advice — he offered perspective. And if you didn’t listen, he’d shake his head and remind you, in his signature way, that your “brain ain’t no bigger than a mustard seed.”

In the 1960s and ‘70s, Elbert established a wholesale distribution company, becoming the first African American wholesaler serving all of Brooklyn and Queens. He expanded into multiple ventures, including managing a fleet of Hood Ice Cream trucks, building a reputation as a sharp, resourceful, and determined businessman. He shared knowledge freely, determined to see others succeed.

Many would later say, “If it wasn’t for Elbert, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

In 1967, encouraged by his brothers Lorenzo and Ismail, Elbert joined the Nation of Islam.

Protective of his community and committed to self-determination, he aligned deeply with its values. He took on the name Shamsid-Deen, meaning “Sun of the Faith,” and

assumed major responsibilities, including coordinating nationwide food distribution and managing over 30 businesses operated by Muhammad’s Mosque No. 7. Service. Uplift and building systems that strengthened Black families were always at the heart of his work.

In 1977, Elbert married his second wife, Darlene, who remained his devoted partner for the rest of his life. They welcomed a daughter together, completing their blended family.

Elbert took immense pride in how all his children carried forward his values, especially as their paths led into music, business, and community leadership. He played a quiet but steady advisory role in the development of Ruff Ryders Entertainment, proud not of the fame but of the unity and opportunity.

For more than three decades, Elbert continued building in Yonkers, founding Thruway Insurance Brokers and later Thruway Builders. He became a trusted community pillar, politically active and known for opening doors for newcomers. At 33 S. Broadway in Yonkers, where Ruff Ryders began, he created space for entrepreneurs and dreamers, influencing a generation of local leaders.

He cherished family gatherings, the joyful chaos, and the movement of children through the house. His determination was unmatched, his stubbornness legendary, and his humor ever present.

Elbert made pilgrimages to Mecca in 2000 and again in 2024, the latter trip lovingly arranged by his grandson Kasseem — fulfilling a sacred wish. He devoted himself to service at Masjid Malcolm Shabazz and throughout New York, including five years as director of the Muslim Foundation of America. In 2024, the African American Day Parade honored Elbert and Darlene by naming its reviewing stand after them.

Elbert is survived by his wife of 48 years, Darlene; his first wife, Sandra; seven children; a large extended family; and generations of loved ones shaped by his faith, wisdom, and example.

He is preceded in death by his son Trevor and many beloved family members who welcomed him home.

Elbert’s family wishes to express its heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming expressions of love, kindness, and support shown during our time of bereavement. Your prayers, visits, calls, and thoughtful gestures have brought comfort and strength to our hearts. May Allah, the Most Merciful, bless each of you for your compassion, and may He grant Elbert eternal peace and rest.

With heartfelt appreciation, The Family

Elbert Shamsid-Deen (Photo courtesy of the family)

Family members and mourners gathered outside after the memorial service.

Mr. Shamsid-Deen’s pallbearers included Kasseem Dean, Tyrese Johnson, Joaquin Joseph, Terrence Dean Jr., Joaquin Scullark, Darrin Dean Jr., Shawn Dean, Nasir Dean, Lavelle Scullark, Rahiem Dean, and Darrell Ridgeway. (Bill Moore photos)

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101 LEGAL NOTICES

101 LEGAL NOTICES

101 LEGAL NOTICES

Notice of Qualification of TALUS GROUP HOLDINGS LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/05/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 06/05/14. Princ. office of LLC: 110 Greene St., #1202, NY, NY 10012. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. DE addr. of LLC: 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with DE Secy. of State, John G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Qualification of MOTEK FLATIRON LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/21/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Florida (FL) on 04/01/25. Princ. office of LLC: 2895 Collins Ave., Ste. B, Miami Beach, FL 33140. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the princ. office of the LLC. Cert. of Form. filed with Cord Byrd, State of FL at Tallahassee, the Capital, 500 South Brough St., Tallahassee, FL 32399. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of MELROSE SOUTH WORKFORCE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/26/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: Phipps Houses, 257 Park Ave. South, 12th Fl., NY, NY 10010.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF JOSEPH C. DANILCZYK, ESQ. PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/23/2025. Office Location New York County.

SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. Post Office address to which SSNY shall mail copy of any process against PLLC served is: JOSEPH C. DANILCZYK, ESQ. PLLC 43 W 43rd Street, Suite 236 New York, NY, 10036, USA. Principal business address of JOSEPH C. DANILCZYK, ESQ. PLLC is 43 W 43rd Street, Suite 236, New York, NY 10036 USA. Dissolution date: PERPETUAL. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.

Notice of Qualification of PEARL CARE 12, LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/12/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 06/03/25. Princ. office of LLC: 220 5th Ave., 17th Fl., NY, NY 10001. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. DE addr. of LLC: 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State of the State of DE, 401 Federal St., Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Qualification of MATSON, DRISCOLL & DAMICO (US), LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/12/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 08/18/25. Princ. office of LLC: 10 High St., Ste. 1000, Boston, MA 02110. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. DE addr. of LLC: 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State, John G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal St. - Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Qualification of ATEA 168 Holding LLC. Certificate of Authority filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/12/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan).

Limited Liability Company (LLC) formed on 11/06/2025. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to eResidentAgent, Inc: eteam@eminutes.com. Articles of Organization originally filed with Secretary of State (SOS).

Secretary of State, 401 Federal Street, Ste 4, Dover, DE 19901 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Qualification of TD FINANCIAL PRODUCTS LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/18/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 07/21/10. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co. (CSC), 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. DE addr. of LLC: CSC, 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State of the State of DE, 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of WASABI SUSHI BENTO 400 MADISON LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/19/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of SOFTBALL LG LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/10/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan).

SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to JESSE WILLIAM GREEN: 115 CENTRAL PARK W. APT. 6CE. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of Bondd Pilates LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/10/2025. Office location: New York. SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Danielle Daubert: 370 E 76th Street Apt C909, New York, NY 10021. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of LIBERTY LANDING DEVELOPER LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/05/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: 116 E 27th St., 11th Fl., NY, NY 10016. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207.

Purpose: Real estate investment.

Notice of Formation of LUNA THE CAT LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/12/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

PLAY WORLD USA LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/03/25.

Office: New York County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 34 West 33rd Street, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of DAVIDSON GI, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/07/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: 24 W. 40th St., 16th Fl., NY, NY 10018. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Peter Davidson, c/o Aligned Climate Capital at the princ. office of the LLC. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

101 LEGAL NOTICES

101 LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT ‑ COUNTY OF NEW YORK. 57TH ST. VACATION OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC., BY AND THROUGH ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS, Plaintiff ‑against‑ JEFFREY L. BROWNELL, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated September 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street, New York, NY on January 21, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, County of New York, City and State of New York, being an undivided owner‑ ship interest as tenant‑in‑com‑ mon with other owners in the Timeshare Unit in the build‑ ing located at 102 West 57th Street, New York, NY. Together with an appurtenant undivided .015838% common interest per‑ centage. This is a foreclosure on ownership interest in a time‑ share unit, a studio penthouse on a floating use basis every year, in accordance with and subject to declarations. Decla‑ ration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions dated October 10, 2008 and October 31, 2008 as CFRN # 2008000426142 as recorded in the Office of the City Register, County, City and State of New York. The Timeshare Unit is also designated as Block 1009 and Lot 37.

Said premises known as 102 WEST 57TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10019 Approximate amount of lien $16,215.93 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 850230/2023.

JEFFREY MILLER, ESQ., Ref‑ eree DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590 DLG# 39147 {* AMSTERDAM*}

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NEW YORK JPMORGAN CHASE BANK N.A., Plaintiff AGAINST ROOSEY KHAWLY, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 25, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the New York County Courthouse in Room 252, located at 60 Centre Street, New York, NY on January 21, 2026 at 2:15 PM, premises known as 15 West 53rd Street, Units 29A, 29F, 30A, New York, NY 10019.

All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, City, County and State of New York, Block: 1269, Lot: 1140 and 1145 and 1146. Approximate amount of judgment $11,351,008.92 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #850464/2023. Clark Whitsett, Esq., Referee Fein, Such & Crane, LLP 28 East Main Street Rochester, NY 14614 CHNC1631 88060

NOTICE OF QUALIFICATION OF CMFH LLC. CMFH LLC filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY): Application for Authority on July 6, 2022. Office Location New York County. LLC formed in Delaware on May 10, 2022. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served.

The Post Office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is: Corporation Service Company, 251 Little Falls Drive, Wilmington, DE 19808. The principal business address of LLC is 2218 Broadway, Num 218, New York, NY 10024. Certificate of LLC filed with Secretary of State of Delaware located at: 401 Federal Street, Suite 4, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

Notice of Qualification of 2GC MEZZ, LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/24/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 11/21/25. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Tarter Krinsk & Drogin LLP, Attn: Brian J. Beller, Esq., 1350 Broadway, NY, NY 10018. DE addr. of LLC: 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with DE Secy. of State, 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Qualification of BREC PARENT GP, LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/23/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 06/25/25. Princ. office of LLC: 345 Park Ave., NY, NY 10154. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co. (CSC), 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. DE addr. of LLC: c/o CSC, 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State, 401 Federal St. - Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of MELISSA STANGER LCSW, PLLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/23/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 5 East 16th St., 6th Fl., NY, NY 10003. Purpose: Licensed clinical social work.

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101 LEGAL NOTICES

101 LEGAL NOTICES

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101 LEGAL NOTICES

REFEREE'S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT BRONX COUNTY PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff against ANGELA MCGHEE AS BENEFICIARY UNDER THE LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF STANFORD SHAW A/K/A STANDFORD SHAW, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Margolin, Weinreb & Nierer, LLP, 575 Underhill Boulevard, Suite 224, Syosset, NY 11791. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 15, 2018, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Bronx County Courthouse, Courtroom 711 at 851 Grand Concourse, Bronx, New York on January 12, 2026 at 2:15 PM. Premises known as 4084 Wilder Avenue, Bronx, New York 10466. Block 4984 Lot 33. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being at Edenwald, Borough and County of Bronx, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $137,370.70 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 32231/2015E. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 12th Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and the Bronx County foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Charlane Brown, Esq., Referee File # 17-0930

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NEW YORK. NYCTL 2021-A TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN FOR THE NYCTL 2021-A TRUST, Plaintiffs -against- EDDIE Z. CHEN a/k/a EDDIE CHEN, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein on April 15, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street New York, NY on January 14, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, County of New York, City and State of New York, known and designated as Block 440 Lot 1301 on the New York County Tax Assessment Map. Said premises known as 427 EAST 12TH STREET, #1A, NEW YORK, NY 10009 Approximate amount of lien $598,893.24 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 158480/2022.

PAUL R. SKLAR, ESQ., Referee Phillips Lytle LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiffs 100 S. Clinton Avenue, Suite 2900, Rochester, NY 14604

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT ‑ COUNTY OF NEW YORK. 57TH ST. VACATION OWN‑ ERS ASSOCIATION, INC., BY AND THROUGH ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS, Plaintiff ‑against‑ BRADLEY RAY WILL, CATHERINE SUE WILL, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated September 17, 2025, I, the undersigned Ref‑ eree will sell at public auction in Room 130 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street, New York, NY on Janu‑ ary 14, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. prem‑ ises situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, County of New York, City and State of New York, being an undivided ownership interest as tenant‑in‑common with other owners in the Timeshare Unit in the building located at 102 West 57th Street, New York, NY. Together with an appurtenant undivided 0.00986400000% common interest percentage.

This is a foreclosure on own‑ ership interest in a timeshare unit, a studio penthouse on a floating use basis every year, in accordance with and subject to declarations. Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions dated October 10, 2008 and October 31, 2008 as CFRN # 2008000426142 as re‑ corded in the Office of the City Register, County, City and State of New York. The Timeshare Unit is also designated as Block 1009 and Lot 37.

Said premises known as 102 WEST 57TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10019 Approximate amount of lien $18,314.89 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 850349/2023.

CHRISTY M. DEMELFI, ESQ., Referee DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590 DLG# 39342 {* AMSTERDAM*}

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NEW YORK MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Plaintiff - against - DAVIS BERGMAN, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on January 9, 2025. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse located at 60 Centre Street, New York, New York 10007 on the 14th day of January, 2026 at 2:15 PM. All that certain piece or parcel of real property, situate and being a part of a condominium in the Borough of Manhattan, County, City and State of New York.

Premises known as 225 East 46th Street, Unit 12F, New York, NY 10017.

(Block: 1320, Lot: 1723) Approximate amount of lien $327,829.92 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale.

Index No. 850049/2023. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee.

Stein, Wiener & Roth LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315 Westbury, NY 11590 Tel. 516-742-1212 MAN-79220

BREG-

Dated: November 17, 2025 During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale. Auction Locations are subject to change.

Notice of Formation of CITYWIDE APARTMENTS PRESERVATION CLASS A, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/21/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: 30 Hudson Yards, 72nd Fl., NY, NY 10001. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF FORMATION of WEISFUSE & WEISFUSE LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/24/2025. Office location: New York Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to 11 Broadway, Suite 464, New York, NY 10004. Purpose: Law

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NEW YORK. AXOS BANK, Plaintiff -againstHUDSON 805 LLC, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated November 26, 2024 and entered on February 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street New York, NY on January 21, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, City, County and State of New York, known as Commercial Unit No. 805-06 in the Building known as the Printing House Condominium. Together with an undivided 0.0124% interest in the Common Elements. Block: 601 and Lot: 1155 Said premises known as 421 HUDSON STREET, UNIT 805/806, NEW YORK, NY 10014 Approximate amount of lien $7,584,837.12 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 850233/2022.

JEFFREY MILLER, ESQ., Referee Sheppard Mullin Attn: Benjamin Gilbert (212) 896-0682 Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112 {* AMSTERDAM*} Notice of formation of 3DR Entertainment LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/19/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan).

SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to James Kuhn: 125 Park Avenue, New York NY, 10017. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

{* AMSTERDAM*} Notice of Qualification of 261 MADISON AVENUE LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/19/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 11/05/25. Princ. office of LLC: The Sapir Organization, 261 Madison Ave., 17th Fl., NY, NY 10016. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co. (CSC), 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. DE addr. of LLC: c/o CSC, 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State of DE, 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Qualification of HEED HEALTH LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/13/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 04/20/20. Princ. office of LLC: 52 Wooster St., Ste. 2, NY, NY 10013. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the princ. office of the LLC. DE addr. of LLC: Resident Agents Inc., 8 The Green, Ste. R, Dover, DE 19901. Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State of the State of DE, P.O. Box 898, Dover, DE 19903. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF RABIN SCHUMANN AND PARTNERS LLP amended name RABIN PFEFFER AND PARTNERS LLP. Cert of Reg filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/24/20 and amended to change name on 7/7/25.

SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail a copy of any process against the LLP served upon him/her to: 11 Times Sq, Flr 10, NY, NY 10036. Purpose: legal services.

SUPREME COURT ‑ COUNTY OF NEW YORK. EMIGRANT BANK, SUC‑ CESSOR BY MERGER WITH EMIGRANT SAVINGS BANK‑MANHATTAN, Plaintiff ‑against‑ FLORENCE SOM‑ MER a/k/a FLORENCE T. SOMMER, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on October 23, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Court‑ house, 60 Centre Street, New York, NY on January 21, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. premise situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, City, County and State of New York, known as Unit No. 9P in the building known as "Continental Towers Condominium" together with an undivided 0.168% interest in the common elements. Block: 1542 Lot: 1116 Said premises known as 301 EAST 79TH STREET, #9P, NEW YORK, NY Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 850681/2023.

JEFFREY R. MILLER, ESQ., Referee Terenzi & Confusione P.C. Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 401 Franklin Avenue, Suite 304, Garden City, NY 11530

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 33

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SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF NEW YORK HNY CLUB SUITES OWNERS ASSOCIATION INC., BY AND THROUGH ITS BROAD OF DIRECTORS, Plaintiff, -against- UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN J. GRAFF, if living, and if they be dead, any and all persons unknown to Plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs-at-law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to Plaintiff, Defendants. INDEX NO. 850265/2023 FILED: 12/3/2025 Plaintiff designates New York County as the place of trial pursuant to CPLR §507 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff's attorney within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service or within 30 days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant an Order of the Hon. Francis A. Kahn III, a Justice of the Supreme Court, of New York County, dated November 24, 2025 and entered November 24, 2025 Dated: November 21, 2025, Westbury, New York. Maria Sideris, Esq., DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP PLLC Attorneys for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue Westbury, New York 11590 (516) 876-0800 Notice of Registration of a Limited Liability Partnership Atlas Solomon LLP filed a Certificate of Registration with the NY Department of State on November 25, 2025. The principal office of the registered limited liability partnership (“LLP”) is located at 11 Broadway, Suite 1168, New York, NY 10004. The Secretary of State has been designated as agent of the LLP upon whom process against it may be served, and a copy of any process served upon him or her shall be mailed to 819 SW Federal Highway, Suite 301, Stuart, FL 34994. The purpose of the LLP is to engage in the practice of law.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT NEW YORK COUNTY VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL, LLC, Plaintiff against PETER DAVIDSON, AS ADMINISTRATOR TO THE ESTATE OF MARY E. KAPLAN, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered November 19, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at Room 252 at the Supreme Court, New York County, 60 Centre Street, New York, New York on January 14, 2026 at 2:15 PM. Premises known as 353 West 56th Street, Unit 9A, New York, NY 10019.

Block 1047 Lot 1564. All that certain lot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, City, County and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $1,679,606.17 plus interest, fees, and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 850124/2019. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 1st Judicial District's Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee File # 23-000633-01

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF NEW YORK. 453 EAST 83RD FUNDING L.P., Plaintiff -against- 453 EAST 83RD STREET LLC, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Decision and Order on Motion dated July 9, 2024 and entered on December 16, 2024, the Decision and Order on Motion dated and entered on February 5, 2025, and the Decision and Order on Motion dated October 31, 2025 and entered on November 6, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street New York, NY 10007 on January 14, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, County, City and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Northerly side of East 83rd Street, distant 76 feet 6 inches Westerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Westerly side of York Avenue (formerly Avenue A) with the Northerly side of East 83rd Street; being a plot 102 feet 2 inches by 20 feet by 102 feet 2 inches by 20 feet. Block: 1563 Lot: 121 Said premises known as 453 EAST 83RD STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10028 Approximate amount of lien $7,857,890.82 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 850183/2023.

ELAINE SHAY, ESQ., Referee KRISS & FEUERSTEIN LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 360 Lexington Avenue, Suite 1200, New York, NY 10017 {* AMSTERDAM*} Notice of Formation of 5E44 ST PH PURCHASER LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/23/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to c/o Meister Seelig & Fein PLLC, 125 Park Ave., 7th Fl., NY, NY 10017. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

34 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

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NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT. NEW YORK COUNTY. USALLIANCE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: NEW YORK COUNTY. W FINANCIAL REIT, LTD, Pltf. vs. KEY HOTELS, LLC, et al, Defts. Index #850190/2024. Pursuant to consent judgment of foreclosure and decision + order on motion entered Nov. 18, 2025, I will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street, New York, NY on January 14, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. premises k/a 129 West 46 th Street, New York, NY a/k/a Block 999, Lot 17. Said property beginning at a point on the northerly side of 46 th St. distant 450 ft. easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the easterly side of Broadway (formerly Seventh Avenue) and the said northerly side of 46 th Street, being a plot 37 ft. 5 ½ inches x. 100 ft. 5 ½ inches x 37 ft. 4 ½ inches x 100 ft. 5 inches. Approximate amount of judgment is $21,567,309.60 plus costs, interest and other amounts. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed consent judgment and terms of sale.

SCOTT SILLER, Referee. JASPAN SCHLESINGER NARENDRAN, LLP, Attys. for Pltf., 300 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530. #102658

Notice of Formation of WEQUONNOC VILLAGE PRESERVATION, L.P. Cert. of LP filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/27/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LP: 30 Hudson Yards, 72nd Fl., NY, NY 10001. Latest date on which the LP may dissolve is 12/31/2125.

SSNY designated as agent of LP upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. Name and addr. of each general partner are available from SSNY. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF New York, Bank of America, National Association as Successor Merger to LaSalle Bank National Association aS trustee for WAMU 2005-AR7, Plaintiff, vs. Nicholas J. Sands a/k/a Nicholas Sands, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Decision + Order On Motion duly entered on April 23, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007 on January 21, 2026 at 2:15 p.m., premises known as 30 East 76th Street, Unit# 7B, a/k/a 971/973 Madison Avenue, Unit# 7B, New York, NY 10021. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, County of New York, City and State of New York, Block 1390 and Lot 1101 together with an undivided 3.639 percent interest in the Common Elements. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,300,211.64 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to the provisions of filed Judgment Index #810068/2010.

Stephen Markman, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Notice of formation of Flight 13 LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/16/2025.

Office location: New York County (Manhattan). SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Dominic Palombo: 171 E 77th Street 5F New York, NY 10075. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of MYZI LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/02/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to 417 W 120th St Apt 2B New York, NY 10027, USA Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of GOLDEN LUCY HOLDINGS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/18/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Ani Gabrellian, 450 E. 83rd St., Apt. 20B, NY, NY 10028. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of James Lenox Partners LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/28/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan).

SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to James Lenox Partners LLC: natan.shklyar@jameslenoxpartners.com.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

BY MERGER WITH NEW YORK METRO FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, Pltf. vs., UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF JAMES MCCASKILL A/K/A JAMES MC CASKILL, HIS NEXT OF KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CEDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH SAID DEFENDANT WHO MAY BE DECEASED, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE ARE UNKNOWN TO THE PLAINTIFF AND CANNOT AFTER DILIGENT INQUIRY BE ASCERTAINED, et al Deft. Index #850257/2022. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered August 12, 2024, I will sell at public auction in Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Centre Street, New York on January 14, 2026 at 2:15 p.m. prem. k/a 61 West 126 th Street, New York, NY 10027 a/k/a Block 1724, Lot 11. Approximate amount of judgment is $180,402.84 plus cost and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment and terms of sale and the right of the United States of America to redeem within 120 days from the date of sale as provided by law. CHRISTY M. DEMELFI, Referee., MARGOLIN, WEINREB & NIERER, LLP., Attys. for Pltf., 575 Underhill Blvd., Suite 224, Syosset, NY. #102646 Notice of formation of Inclusynth Consulting Group LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 7/24/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan). SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Christopher Schmidt: cschmidt@ inclusynth.com. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

SOLLEVARE MONARCH LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/05/25. Office: New York County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 445 Park Avenue, Floor 7, New York, NY 10022. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF NEW YORK U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR BNC MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-2, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-2, Plaintiff AGAINST REGINALD BORGELLA, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered April 1, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the New York County Courthouse in Room 252, located at 60 Centre Street, New York, NY on January 14, 2026 at 2:15 PM, premises known as 140 7th Avenue, Unit 7R, New York, NY 10011. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Manhattan, City of New York, County of New York, State of New York, Block 768, Lot 1203. Approximate amount of judgment $1,043,907.05 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #850069/2014.

Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 00-299477 87843 Notice of formation of MPS GTM Advisory LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/06/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan).

SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to United States Corporation Agents, Inc.: 7014 13th Avenue Suite 102, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of EASTVIEW 400 LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/18/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Ani Gabrellian, 450 E. 83rd St., Apt. 20B, NY, NY 10028. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of WEQUONNOC VILLAGE PRESERVATION GP, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/27/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: 30 Hudson Yards, 72nd Fl., NY, NY 10001. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of FIVE IRON GOLF WILLIAMSBURG LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/18/2025.

Office location: New York County (Manhattan). SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to JARED SOLOMON: 883 Avenue of the Americas FL 3, NYC, NY 10001. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Qualification of FRED AT HOME, LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/18/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 11/13/25. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. DE addr. of LLC: 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with DE Secy. of State, John G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of CROWN ACQUISITIONS VENTURES LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/04/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: 73 Spring St., 5th Fl., NY, NY 10012. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

ABINGTON VILLAGE LLC. App. for Auth. filed with the SSNY on 10/24/25. Originally filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware on 10/22/25. Office: New York County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Borah, Goldstein, Altschuler, Nahins & Goidel, P.C., 377 Broadway. New York, NY 10013.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of 4 CHEQUIT AVENUE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/17/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: 14 Sutton Pl. South, Apt. 7B, NY, NY 10022. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Qualification of HANAOLIVIA LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 05/15/25. Office location: NY County. LLC formed in Florida (FL) on 04/28/25. Princ. office and FL addr. of LLC is: 2895 Collins Ave., Ste. B, Miami Beach, FL 33140. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. Cert. of Form. filed with Cord Byrd, State of FL at Tallahassee, the Capital, 500 South Brough St., Tallahassee, FL 32399. Purpose: Adminstrative entity.

Notice of formation of Thriving Mind LCSW PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/09/2025. Office location: New York County.

SSNY designated as an agent of the PLLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY should mail process to: 45 W 127th Street, #2, New York, NY 10027. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of CPG LIBERTY LANDING LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/05/25. Office location: NY County. Princ. office of LLC: 116 E 27th St., 11th Fl., NY, NY 10016. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207.

Purpose: Real estate investment.

Notice of Formation of JDJ LEGACY GROUP, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/07/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to c/o Julie Kessler LLP, 60 E. 42nd St., 46th Fl., NY, NY 10165. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of PIERRE AMOUR LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/20/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan). SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY should mail process to PIERRE AMOUR LLC: 200 W 20th street, #212, New York NY 10011. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of Stahl Solutions LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/10/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan).

SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Harry Stahl: 88 Lexington Avenue, Apt 804. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of Luxe Contracting Group LLC . Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/21/25. Office location: New York County (Manhattan). SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Luxe Contracting Group LLC: 25 Joseph St Manalapan NJ, 07726.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of PATRICIA LANE LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/07/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Stillwater Mental Health Counseling, PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NYSS on 09/19/2025.

Office:New York County.

NYSS designated for service of process;mail to 642 West 172nd Street #54 New York, NY 10032.

Purpose:Mental Health Counseling.

Notice of Formation of THOMPSON 2E LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/09/25. Office location: NY County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to Lindsey Rollman, 300 Park Ave., Ste. 530, NY, NY 10022.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of formation of Octavio Valdes Advisory LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/22/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan).

SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Octavio Valdes: octaviovald@gmail. com. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of Five Iron Golf Shaker Heights LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/14/2025. Office location: New York County (Manhattan). SSNY designated as an agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Jared Solomon: 883 Avenue of the Americas, FL 3, NYC, NY 10001. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Brooklyn Point 47 LLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect'y of State of NY (SSNY) on 6/2/2025. Office: New York County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: The Ke Song Revocable Trust, 369 Lexington Ave, #3114, NY, NY 10017. Purpose: any lawful act.

M/WBE bids sought for 1217 Washington Ave Bronx, NY construction project. A scope meeting will be held on December 23. Contact bidding@taxaceny.com for details

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

101 LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF new york , TUEBOR REIT SUB LLC, Plaintiff, vs . 2338 SECOND AVENUE MAZAL LLC , ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Amended Judgof Foreclosure and Sale aryment 26, 2025 duly entered on November 25, 2025 , I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at NOTICES the 101 New LEGAL York County Supreme Court, Room 252 of the New York County Courthouse, 60 Notice Street, of Qualification of AP Centre New York, NY CREDIT SOLUTIONS HOLD10007 January 21,Appl.

2026forat INGSon (AIV) II, L.P. 2:15 p.m., Auth. filedpremises with Secy.known of Stateas; of NY (SSNY) on 01/08/25. Office

location: Parcel I; NY County. LP formed in Delaware on 12/26/24.

2338 Second(DE)Avenue, New Princ. office of LP: (Block Attn: General York, NY 10035 1796, Counsel, 9 W. 57th St., 43rd Fl., LotNY, 51)NY 10019. Duration of LP Parcel II: is Perpetual.

SSNY designated 329 Pleasant Avenue, New as agent of LP upon whom processNY against it may be served.

York, 10035 (Block 1711, SSNY shall mail process to the Lot 26) Partnership at the princ. office Parcel III; of the LP. Avenue, Name andNew addr.York, of 2211 Third each general partner are availNYable 10035 (Block Lots from SSNY. DE 1785, addr. of LP: 1201, 1204 and 1205) c/o 1203, Corporation Service Co., 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington,

DE 19808.

Cert.

LP sold filed with Premises are to ofbe indiThe Secy. of State of Parcel the StateIII, vidually starting with of DE, Dept. of State, Div. of then Parcel I, and lastly Parcel John Townsend Bldg., II, Corps., until the sale ofPurpose: a Premises Dover, DE 19901.

Any or lawful suchactivity. part thereof may be sufficient to discharge the mortgage debt evidenced by that certain Consolidated, Amended and Restated Mortgage, Assignment of Leases and Rents, Security Agreement and Fixture Filing dated as of December 6, 2021 (the “Mortgage”), at which point the auction will cease.

All that certain plots, pieces or parcels of lands, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of New York, City and State of New York. Approximate amount of judgment is $69,123,716.34 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of Amended Judgment of Foreclosure Index #850117/2024. Cash will not be accepted.

101 LEGAL NOTICES 101deaths LEGAL NOTICES Rikers Island Continued from page 2

imply something wrong. dated by a settlement over As the year closes, the city detainee conditions. draws closer to a federally His successor, Zohran appointed receivership over Mamdani, will face his the jail system and the legal first deadline immediateTHE to NEWclose YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS he assumes office deadline Rikers ly when Island by 2027. Outgoing in January — the local Re195LEGAL HELP WANTED 101 NOTICES Mayor Eric Adams became newable Rikers law man195 HELP WANTED the frequent sin-eater for dates that the mayor Occupational Therapist Pri- as Continued the current crisis his transfer dormant facilities from page 4 ority Care Staffing. Full time. pro-enforcement approach on Rikers Island from the Bronx. 75,712/year (36.4/ and budget to reentry DOC to the New York City hour) Evaluate cuts patients’ conditions; Develop drew and programming criti- Department of Citywide implement treatment plans; cism, in addition to existing Administrative ServicDemonstrate exercises to issues with COVID-19–relates (DCAS) every half-year, help relieve patients’ pain; Evaluate results and prog- man- ensuring ed delays and reforms the building’s

decommission and re101 LEGAL NOTICES purposing the land for environmental causes.

Michael Higgins Jr., a land planner for the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance and coordinator of the Renewable Rikers coalition, said Mamdani can send a “clear message” that the city is on the same page for transferring the land between agencies.

“He can, pretty soon after entering office, commit the first land transfer in about over four years,” said Higgins. “That’s one thing that he can do … within his first 100 days.

He can also show his sup101 LEGAL NOTICES port for actually giving city agencies the authority to actually start thinking about a master plan for what’s going to be happening on the island.”

Notably, the Anna M. Kross Center, once the city’s largest jail, closed back in 2023 but remains under DOC charge. The city also closed the Otis Bantum Correctional Center, but the Adams administration refused to turn the jail over to DCAS via Renewable Rikers in 2022. The facility later reopened, and was where Furse and Edwin Ramos

retention of generational wealth in communities of color most impacted by the tax lien sale.”

Advocates such as Smallwood-Foot are skeptical that land bank legislation will help without proper management and transparency on the city’s part.

The DOF has been less than supportive of the bill package. The City Council reauthorized the tax lien sale through December 31, 2028, under Local Law 82.

The DOF claims existing reforms under the law, including increased focus on homeowner protection and debt resolution in 2024, resulted in 85% of the 30,000 liens on the 90-day notice list being removed before the sale. A DOF spokesperson provided this figure, but not the demographic breakdown of those removed.

“For this year’s sale, we also strengthened outreach through partnerships with nonprofits, City Council members, and other city agencies,” said a DOF spokesperson. “As a result, a record number of properties were removed from the initial lien sale list, with thousands of homeowners making minimum payments, entering payment plans, or applying for ex-

East New York Community Land Trust founder Albert Scott Jr. joined council members and advocates to rally in support of Community Land Act on April 10, 2025. (Emil Cohen/NYC Council Member Unit photo)

Adams indictment

ress of occupational therapy on patients; Educate caregivers and family members of clients on patient care. usotjobs@prioritycarestaffing. com.

Solutions That Empower Continued from page 8

ing about. She says she is convinced that at this point, it’s a scam that hunts minority, elderly, and even dead homeowners with paid-off or almost no mortgage payments. “I’m afraid to look and see for myself,” said Nicholson about her home in Brooklyn.

“Longtime New York City homeowners face a host of challenges, including a lien sale process that can be opaque and confusing,” said Brooklyn State Senator Zellnor Myrie in a statement. His recent Bill 8595 deals with Jeffrey R. Miller, Esq., Referee preventing foreclosures.

Richard J. Galati, Jr., ALSTON “Vulnerable homeowners, & BIRD LLP, 90 Park Avenue, particularly Black and [B] New York, NY 10016, (212) 2109400, Attorneys for Plaintiff rown property owners, deserve help when it comes to remaining in the homes they’ve spent generations protecting and improving.”

To display your Legal, To address these ineqLLC, and classifieds uities, housing advocates have long suggested to ads contact: either reform the tax lien sale process or, as demandBrian Lawrence DISPLAY YOUR LEGAL, LLC, AND ed by CLT groups, to abol(617) 704 - 3735 ish it all together.

CLASSIFIEDS ADS CONTACT: brian.lawrence@ The council’s finance I MILLINER  (347) 350-4316 amsterdamnews.com and land use legislation inI.MILLINER@AMSTERDAMNEWS.COM cludes five bills, sponsored Or schedule your own

by Council Speaker Adriand LLC adverOWN tisingBY enne Adams and CouncilORLegal SCHEDULE YOUR by scanningTHE theQR QRCODE Code SCANNING members Justin Brannan, Gale Brewer, and Sandy Nurse, that aim to reform the process, prioritize community needs, avoid unnecessary displacement of homeowners, and ensure tax-delinquent properties are returned to productive

use, said the city.

“The current tax lien sale process has disproportionately harmed Black and Brown homeowners. This ongoing racial disparity is why the Council created the tax lien task force, which I co-chaired. This legislative package comes from some recommendations of that task force, but goes further,” said Nurse.

Councilmembers were set to hold the final vote on the tax lien reform bills on December 18 per this year’s last stated meeting.

The city claims the shift to a land bank would prevent the circumstances that often lead to foreclosures by sending DOF notices to condo boards in large buildings prior to a sale, require the DOF to monitor unresolved tax liens after three years, shift focus from debt collection to debt resolution, regularly communicate the debts owed, and keep primary resident homes until debts equal $200,000 or 20% of the market value of the property.

“If passed, it would take a holistic approach and shift the city from the sale of liens to an opaque trust and toward a land bank model that prioritizes both tax enforcement and community stability,” said Nurse. “I’m confident that the package will prevent displacement while supporting long-term homeownership and the

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 35 December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 35

emptions. It is a fundamental misunderstanding of the role of land banks to incorporate collection of tax revenues into an entity designed for purposes of community development. No other land bank in the state conducts tax enforcement.”

In addition, a DEP spokesperson said in a statement that they are still reviewing the proposed legislation and upheld the tax lien sale as a critical tool for debt collection.

“DEP and DOF always notify customers multiple times before a property is

— who died last month 101 LEGAL NOTICES just hours before release — were held on Rikers Island.

“Prayers and condolences to yet another family mourning the loss of their loved one on Rikers Island,” said Freedom Agenda codirector Darren Mack.

“Forty-seven deaths in DOC custody since Mayor Adams took office. This is the outcome of an administration that has chosen incarceration as a solution to every social problem, such as mental health, homelessness, and more, in our city. That is the legacy of Eric Adams.”

listed or sold in the lien sale and work with them to enter into payment agreements,” said a DEP spokesperson.

“DEP’s priority is to help customers remain in good standing before enforcement ever becomes necessary. The lien sale remains a critical collections tool, but including a property in a lien sale is truly a last resort.

In partnership with DOF and the City Council, DEP has implemented reforms to give property owners more time, information, and resources to pay their debts

36 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Mayor Eric Adams Continued from page 2

wards, he served as Brooklyn’s first Black American Borough President from 2013.

During the COVID-19 crisis, New Yorkers from all backgrounds and income levels struggled to cope with economic insecurity, isolation, and loss. The nation and the elites were ready to write New York City off as dead, ravaged by crime and an insidious virus. Hope wavered.

Using his office as borough president, Adams was on the ground throughout 2020 tending to constituents dealing with the strife of the pandemic. He delivered personal protective equipment (PPE), hand sanitizer produced in Brooklyn’s own facilities, food, and supplies to Black and Brown communities in need; lobbied for vaccines to be delivered to the most vulnerable; delivered toys during the holiday season; and checked on the elderly in NYCHA housing. It was this goodwill and media coverage that cemented him as a promising candidate for Mayor. He announced his campaign in November 2020.

One lingering question everyone at the time had for Adams was why would a Black man want to be Mayor considering the city was literally and financially in shambles after the pandemic. Determined to live out his childhood dreams of fixing the city, Adams was adamant about his vision and plan for recovery, which included cleaning up the police department, and cracking down on crime.

“We turned this city around. I inherited a city that was dealing with real crime, gun violence, illegal vehicles on our streets, homeless people sleeping in tents and camps,” said Adams. “Many of us normalized the dysfunctionality of the city, and now that it’s functioning, you know, you didn’t realize what it was back then.”

It’s a point of pride for Adams, which he has consistently complained he does not get enough credit for.

Recovery from the pandemic and fighting crime has indeed been his day one message to New Yorkers, and Adams has succeeded by those measures. The city is thriving again as a tourism destination four years later with shootings and crime down overall, with the exception of grand larceny and sex crimes. His administration has shut down over 1,600 illegal cannabis shops, seized over 125,000 illegal vehicles, and controversially implemented an involuntary removal system to address street homelessness and mental illness. This program managed to connect about 8,900 homeless individuals living in the subways to shelters, and 1,200 have been connected to permanent affordable housing, said the city.

Adams’s tenure also included passing landmark zoning (City of Yes for Housing Opportunity), increasing housing production, lowering unemployment, securing $24 billion for Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise (M/WBEs), overhauling public school reading and math curricula, expanding the Summer Youth Employment

Outgoing Mayor Eric Adams talks about his legacy at a roundtable held at City Hall on Dec. 15. (Ariama C. Long photo)

Program (SYEP) to a record 100,000 slots, creating a permanent outdoor dining program, launching a “war on rats,” and reforming the city’s trash infrastructure.

However, the biggest disappointments many voters, particularly Black and Brown voters, have with Adams’s administration was his handling of the asylum seeker crisis that saw the arrival of approximately 245,000 migrants to the city, constant budget cuts, and unprecedented indictment and federal charges for bribery and campaign fraud. By 2023, his approval ratings had tanked.

Still, it was his subsequent relationship with President Donald Trump and seemingly making a move to a more centrist/right political ideology in order to stave off prison time that turned many voters completely off. In fairness, Adams’ politics had always skewed more moderate because of his law enforcement background. But, he did unorthodox things like skip Martin Luther King Jr Day events to attend Trump’s presidential inauguration in January 2025. Even more voters who had previously supported him during his indictment, began to waver. Adams said he doesn’t regret attending the inauguration and called these supporters “fair-weather friends.”

“If Black folks abandoned me because I went to an event in D.C., not MLK, then they were never with me. They were never with me cause I’m not a part-time friend,” said Adams. “If they weren’t with me based on what I did in 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care, a leading voice who cared about ending police brutality. If they weren’t with me for dropping unemployment by 27% in the Black community, 24 billion dollars would go to M/WBE.” “If they weren’t with me, after doing free high-speed broadband in NYCHA with an overwhelming number of tenants are Black

and Brown, of moving 24,000 illegal guns off our streets where the victims of those shooters were Black and Brown,” he continued. “If they weren’t with me for what I have done in small businesses and all that other stuff, but they abandoned me because I went to Washington, then they were never with me. And they need to be with whomever they think to do the job best. I did very well.”

Throughout his single term, Adams was inevitably compared to the late Mayor David Dinkins.

Dinkins, the city’s first Black mayor, was harshly criticized during his one-term over failing to get a handle on visceral racial tension and riots between Black and Jewish communities in the 1990s. He was seldom praised for introducing the concept of safe streets and community policing that led to a reduction in crime New Yorkers still benefit from today. Regardless of their successes and failures in office, it cannot go without being acknowledged that both Dinkins and Adams faced a level of veiled bias, racism, and scrutiny while in office that other Mayors have never had to contend with.

“I’ve said this over and over again. It doesn’t matter if it’s one term, if it’s two terms, or it’s three terms.What do you do during those terms,” said Adams about not getting a second term in office. “History is going to show that the records we broke and what we did for working-class people is just amazing.”

In a hypothetical second term, Adams stated he would have focused on enhancing language services, further reducing crime throughout the city, and improving mental health support. He claims he has at least “four dream jobs” to choose from after Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani’s inauguration in 2026. Though he has not yet elaborated on the details of these offers.

“I turn on my GPS every morning, my God positioning satellite. He handles it,” said Adams about the future.

As far as his critiques of Mamdani, Adams deeply dislikes the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) and called their policies “destructive” and “problematic.” He railed against Mamdani’s ideas about decriminalizing prostitution, Rikers Island, taxing the rich, addressing homelessness, running billionaires out of the city, and ending mayoral control of the schools. Adams also pushed back against the idea that he’s potentially sabotaging Mamdani when it comes to keeping his campaign promises, like freezing rent for rent-stabilized apartments, by stacking board appointments.

“Those that are within my span of control, like the Rent Guidelines Board, I think it’s important that rent should be determined based on what the law says, based on the economics.

We’re going to feel that board,” said Adams.

“And so for people to say, ‘you should not be doing appointments right now.’ It’s like, what is this double standard? I’m the mayor until December 31st, and I’m going to carry out that function until December 31st.”

Movers have officially started emptying Adams’s office into trucks as the city heads into the holiday season.

“One thing’s true, you’re going to miss me,” said Adams to the press, with a hearty laugh.

To commemorate their momentous, and at times turbulent, time together, Adams and his team buried a time capsule with keepsakes in front of City Hall under a slab of sidewalk that had been removed on December 16, 2025. Adams was in good spirits in the press conference as he put an actual record decorated with his accomplishments on the cover into the capsule.

Then he took his final bow as a familiar beat played him out in the background.

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 37

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS S P O R T S

PFL Lyon sees Vadim Nemkov and Cris Cyborg crowned world champions

By DERREL JOHNSON Special to the AmNews Arguably one of the most significant MMA (mixed martial arts) cards of this year was held in France this past weekend. PFL (Professional Fighters League) Lyon’s main event saw Russian Vadim Nemkov (20-2) crowned as the inaugural PFL heavyweight world champion, making quick work of Brazilian Renan Ferreira (13-5), submitting him in four minutes of the first round with an arm triangle choke.

“I’ll fight anyone that the company wants me to, but I really want to fight Francis Ngannou,” Nemkov said via a translator following his win. Ngannou is the most prominent figure in the PFL. He built his name and reputation as the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) –– the most popular and successful MMA brand in the sport –– heavyweight champion from March 2021 until he departed from the organization in January of 2023.

The 39-year-old, 6-4, 255-pound Ngannou, who was born and raised in Cameroon, moved to France at age 26 before settling in Las Vegas, United States, to pursue

Vadim Nemkov (left) has his arm held up in victory after defeating Renan Ferreira on Saturday in Lyon, France for the PFL heavyweight championship. (PFL photo)

his mixed martial arts ambitions, said he welcomes the challenge from Nemkov.

“I’ve been ready for a long time.

See you soon,” posted Ngannou via X, formerly known as Twitter, setting up a potential superfight between Nemkov, the former Bellator light heavyweight champion, and

the former UFC heavyweight strap holder. Bellator, which was one of the biggest combat promotions in the world, ended its operations in 2025 and was acquired by the PFL. In the co-main event, Brazilian Cris Cyborg (29-2, 1 no contest) became the PFL women’s featherweight world champion when she

defeated Sara Collins (6-1) with a rear-naked chokehold in the third round. Cyborg, who will turn 41 this summer and hasn’t lost in seven years, suggested she wants one more match before she retires.

In the boxing ring, Newark’s Shakur Stevenson (24-0, 11 KOs) will vacate his WBC lightweight

title and move up from 135 to 140 pounds to challenge Brooklyn’s Teofimo Lopez (21-1, 13 KOs) for his WBO and The Ring junior welterweight titles on Saturday, January 31, at Madison Square Garden.

Though Lopez, 28, has one loss, he also holds the most impressive victory of the pair, defeating Vasiliy Lomachenko in October 2020.

“In reality, man, this guy is the best, and we’re here to face the best,” Lopez said on why he chose this fight. “That’s just what it is.

Forget the rest... Every fighter that I faced, in this beautiful weight class, all the things that I learned from every fighter that I faced, to now, will be on display against Shakur Stevenson.”

Stevenson commented that his mind will be as important as his physical skills when he takes on Lopez.

“A lot of the weaknesses are mental,” Stevenson, also 28, said of Lopez. “I think it’s more mental than anything again. I’m going to expose it. I just don’t think he realizes how good I am. I think come fight night, he’s going to realize that I’m gonna take it to another level that he has never seen before.”

Student-athletes share concerns about mental health at the Intercollegiate Athletics Forum

By LOIS ELFMAN Special to the AmNews The prevailing topic at this year’s SBJ Intercollegiate Athletics Forum held December 9-10 in Las Vegas, Nevada, was the ever-evolving name, image and likeness (NIL) landscape. The panel, Voices from the Arena: Student-Athletes on the Business of College Sports, provided the student-athlete perspective and extended the discussion to include mental health.

“It’s no question student-athletes today are managing academic expectations, pressures around performance and being in a really visible time in college athletics all while participating in a business ecosystem that continues to expand,” said moderator Dayali Carpenter, sports marketing company Learfield’s senior manager, NIL growth and development.

“I believe NIL is a choice, and everything comes down to your priorities when it comes to planning your schedule,” said Alex Orji, a quarterback at the University of Nevada - Las Vegas. “There are going to be non-negotiables, like practice and school and things like

Former student-athlete Meredith Page is now the assistant director of compliance at the University of Illinois and NCAA Division I Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) chair. She said that when she sees a fumble while watching a college football game, she immediately worries what the fallout will be online. She said it’s essential to realize just how serious online abuse is.

“Although the House settlement, although NIL, although transfer portal are all really important discussions, we’ve got to look at what’s happening at our back door to our student-athletes and their mental health,” Page said. Division I SAAC speaks to commissioners, athletic directors, and administrators about where the mental health of studentathletes is in terms of their priorities.

“Another thing that we look at is what are our enforcement mech(L-R) UNLV quarterback Alex Orji and the University of Nevada sprinter Jasmine Harris were panelists at the anisms in ensuring that the things SBJ Intercollegiate Athletics Forum. (L: UNLV Athletics photo, R: Wolf Pack Athletic photo) that are in NCAA legislation for that, but as long as you’re allowed marketing major, was able to com- on social media, which is a crucial mental health are actually happento slot them up to your discretion, bine an NIL deal with her studies. part of NIL. “We could definite- ing on campus,” said Page. “I know then that’s when you fit the NIL “Something that I’ve learned in the ly do a better job nationwide of that it’s not happening at all of our and the business and the relation- classroom for so long I was getting bringing awareness to the fact that small schools and even at our bigger ships all in between.” to experience,” she said. sometimes athletes need some- schools with more resources …

Sprinter Jasmine Harris of the Carpenter asked about direct body to talk to and just need to be Something of such priority should University of Nevada - Reno, a engagement with fans and critics heard,” said Orji. be invested in.”

38 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS S P O R T S

Is Nic Claxton’s growth solidifying him as a long term Nets mainstay?

By DERREL JOHNSON Special to the AmNews Nic Claxton is ascending.

Through his first 25 games this season, the 26 year old, 6-11 Brooklyn Nets center, whom the team selected with the 31st overall pick in the second round of the 2019 NBA Draft, is posting career highs across the board, including 13.4 points, 4.4 assists, 9.3 field goal attempts, 4.5 free throw attempts, 3.2 made free throws, and 2.7 offensive rebounds. The longest-tenured Nets player has also notched his first two career triple-doubles, further cementing his rise.

“I just told him we’re getting better and better at reading the defense,” Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. said of the pair’s growing chemistry after a 119-101 win over the New Orleans Pelicans at home at the Barclays Center on December 6.

“I feel like we’re just learning each other’s game a little more.

He’s looking for me out on the floor … I just feel like we’re flowing better and we’re kind of get-

said Fernandez after the Nets, who are 7-18 going into tonight’s game in Brooklyn versus the Miami Heat, defeated the Pelicans. “... It is Nick setting a good screen for Mike … or Mike is playing splits or a rip screen and he cuts to the rim and Nick finds (him). Nick is being aggressive to score, then the defense is up with him, so I like how the relationship is building right now.”

Porter Jr., the Nets’ leading scorer, is putting together an AllStar level season. The former Denver Nuggets player, who won a championship in 2023 with the franchise, is averaging career highs in points (25.6) and assists (3.2).

Porter came to the Nets in a July trade with the Nuggets along with a 2032 first-round pick in exchange for forward Cam Johnson.

After a horrendous 1-11 start to this season, Brooklyn is a respectable 6-7 since, and have won four Nets center Nic Claxton has scaled his game for the gradually of their last six games. improving Brooklyn Nets. (Bill Moore photo) “Number one, our veterans have ting used to each other more.”

Porter’s improving synergy. done a great job of just staying the Nets head coach Jordi Fernandez “I think they are building their course,” said Brooklyn assistant has a similar view of Claxton’s and relationship and you can see it,” coach Steve Hetzel, who stepped

up with head coach Jordi Fernandez out with the flu, after Sunday’s 127-82 win over the Milwaukee Bucks. That contest saw a franchise record-tying nine players in double figures.

“They’ve always bought into what we’ve been doing, and they’ve been patient with the process of allowing these younger players to grow, and through their leadership and Jordi’s leadership, the ship never sank.”

The Nets’ explosive (21.4) starting shooting guard Cam Thomas, who has been out since he suffered a left hamstring injury in early November, will be reevaluated in the next week and should be able to make a return soon. It may be best for Fernandez to bring the ball-dominant, high-volume shooting Thomas off the bench, so as not to upset the chemistry that continues to develop with the current starting lineup.

After Miami on Thursday, Brooklyn will host the Toronto Raptors on Saturday before heading to Philadelphia to battle the 76ers next Tuesday.

Former para-athlete Matt Scott continues to embody a no limits mindset

By TYRESE ALLEYNE-DAVIS Special to the AmNews For many athletes, reaching the professional level is one of their highest aspirations. Matt Scott has fulfilled such a dream.

After an exceptional five-year collegiate wheelchair basketball career at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Scott established himself as one of the most accomplished players in the sport. During his time with the Warhawks, the Detroit, Michigan, native won the NWBA Collegiate Wheelchair Basketball Championship three times, in 2004, 2005, and 2007. And that was without a role model when he was younger.

“Growing up, all of my sports role models were able-bodied.

I had no one like me to look up to,” he told the AmNews.

In 2007, Scott was named to the U.S. roster for the Parapan American Games, and in 2008, he competed as a member of the USA Men’s Wheelchair Basketball Paralympic Team at the Summer Paralympic Games in Beijing, China. Team USA advanced to the bronze medal game but ultimately fell to Great Britain. Although Scott did not come home with a medal, the experience proved to

be a turning point in his career: After the Beijing Games, he was nominated for Best Male Athlete at the 2008 ESPY Awards.

After his collegiate career came to a close, Scott embarked on an illustrious professional career overseas. He spent six seasons in Turkey with Galatasaray S.K., two seasons in Italy with Comune di Porto Torres, three seasons in Germany with RSB Thuringia Bulls, and later competed in Spain with CP Mideba.

One of the defining highlights of Scott’s career came in 2016, when he helped lead the USA Men’s Wheelchair Basketball Team to its first Paralympic gold medal since 1988, defeating Spain 68–52 at the Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games.

Five years later, Scott added another gold medal to his résumé, helping Team USA defeat host nation Japan in the Tokyo 2021 Paralympic Games.

“If I could go back to any specific moment in my career, I would definitely go back to Beijing 2008, where we came home emptyhanded,” Scott said. “I would have told myself and my teammates that instead of being disappointed that we were only playing in the third-place game, we needed to be focused on coming away

Former para-athlete Matt Scott (No. 9) has represented the United States in multiple international basketball competitions, including Summer Paralympics Games.

(Matt Scott/Team USA photo)

with something. Great Britain won that game because they were still hungry. It taught me a big lesson as a professional athlete.”

Now 40 years old and retired from professional competition, Scott lives in the California Bay Area, where he has founded and operates the Fly Without Limits Foundation, a global social impact nonprofit organization based in San Francisco (flywithoutlimits.org). Through

the organization, Scott encourages people with disabilities in the United States and abroad to pursue their dreams and become their own barrier breakers. His advocacy has him working with lawmakers on policies that provide socio-economic opportunities to disabled individuals, as well as adaptive sports resources.

Expanding his post-playing career, Scott served as a reporter at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games for

NBCUniversal.

“When I think about basketball, I feel empowered,” he said. “It’s a sport that has given so much to me and allowed me to experience some of the biggest moments in my wildest dreams. I forged friendships, gained brothers, and became a mentor for the next generation. I’m proud of how I ended my career, and I’m excited for the next chapters that are ahead [in] my journey.”

December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025 • 39

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS S P O R T S

History-making U.S. fencer Lauren Scruggs returns to World Cup action

By LOIS ELFMAN Special to the AmNews Since establishing herself as an international force in women’s foil at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, U.S. fencer Lauren Scruggs has graduated from Harvard University, returned to New York City, begun a full-time job, and returned to fencing’s World Cup circuit. At the recent Busan SK Telecom Senior World Cup competition in South Korea, Scruggs joined teammates Lee Kiefer, Jaelyn Liu, and Carolina Stutchbury in claiming the silver medal in the foil team event.

“Going into that, I was a little nervous because I’ve been working a full-time job, so I’ve been balancing fencing and that,” said Scruggs. “The day of [competition], I was really feeling myself, feeling my moves and everything, so I took it bout by bout. I’ve been working on some new things, and I saw those things come out during the tournament.”

While she still brings strength and energy, Scruggs, 22, is trying to bring maturity to her fencing. “I was a little more tactical,” she said.

“I’m still pretty explosive, but I’m adding in some older fencer components to my game.”

Lauren Scruggs (l) in action vs Yuka Ueno of Japan at the Busan World Cup. (Bizzi Team via USA Fencing photo)

Scruggs, who has international competitions on her schedule in 2026, decided to take a full-time position in wealth management.

While she no longer has classes and exams, there are new demands on her schedule, but juggling multiple things is nothing new. She has competed in three tournaments this fall, placing well. Her immediate goals are becoming more consistent, winning a World Cup

event, and continuing to improve.

A New York native, returning home has allowed Scruggs to be more active with the Peter Westbrook Foundation. As much as she can, she attends the Saturday morning community events for kids. “With Peter gone (Westbrook passed away in 2024), we’re beginning a new era of the program,” said Scruggs, who is building up the foundation’s foil

Lauren Scruggs (TeamUSA photo)

training. “Providing a good environment for the kids just to enjoy…and leave every Saturday wanting to come back.”

As college sports face new challenges and dynamics, USA Fencing has taken a proactive approach to ensuring fencing remains a collegiate sport. Scruggs rose to Olympic prominence while at Harvard and values her experiences with collegiate competition.

“To be able to go to Harvard was amazing; it changed my life to have that opportunity,” said Scruggs. “I think it’s super important to have fencing be an NCAA sport. [Intercollegiate competition] was really fun, and it allowed me to maintain my passion for fencing. If I wasn’t fencing in college, maybe I wouldn’t have been as enthusiastic or have the drive to go to the Olympics.”

Skater Emmanuel Savary sharpens routines for the 2026 U.S. Championships

By LOIS ELFMAN Special to the AmNews The ice will be hot at the 2026 U.S. Figure Skating Championships, as the results of the senior events will significantly factor into the selection of the U.S. team that will compete at the Olympic Winter Games in February. When the senior men take to the ice on Jan. 7, Emmanuel Savary will look to make his mark in what will likely be his final U.S. nationals.

This will be Savary’s sixth appearance in the senior men’s event. The 2025 nationals marked his return to the U.S. Championships after six years. An ankle injury slowed his training over the summer, but by autumn, he felt better, allowing him to skate in shows and even do an international competition in Scotland. In November, Savary, 27, won his second consecutive East-

Giants

Continued from page 40

ern Sectional Singles Final.

“I personally feel [show skating] has helped me so much,” said Savary, who has become a regular performer with Ice Theatre of New York, recently skating at the Christmas tree lighting ceremonies at Bryant Park and Riverbank State Park. “I’m naturally very introverted, so it has helped me be comfortable in front of an audience.

Making eye contact, smiling, and engaging the audience, things like that have elevated since I’ve been doing a lot more shows.”

The weeks leading up to the sectional competition, Savary was feeling good and gaining confidence. “I skated pretty much how I expected to skate, and I’m hoping to carry that momentum with me to nationals,” he said.

Savary has kept his free skating program from last season, set to the music “Saturn.” His new short

program is a tango fusion with some Latin accents. He does his own choreography, which is his favorite part of skating. “I find something I’m relating to music-wise,” he said. “I’m very particular about how I want certain things to look.”

Long-term, Savary hopes to do more choreography for other skaters. He currently does some choreographic work with the young skaters that he coaches at the Skating Club of Wilmington (Delaware).

Shortly after the U.S. Figure Skating Championships, Savary will return to his studies at the University of Delaware. He’s on schedule to graduate next spring with his degree in astrophysics. While graduate school is still on his radar, it will probably be several years in the future.

“While my body still can, I want to do more things in skating,” he said. “I would love to see the world.”

interviewed Flores for their head coaching position. They eventually hired Daboll.

Fast forward close to four

years, and today, of the 32 NFL in unfavorable field position by teams, Flores’ Vikings defense a struggling offense. ranks in the top third of the Flores’ commanding leadership league, despite often being put and respect of his players is as con-

Emmanuel Savary performing with Ice Theatre of New York. (Hideki Aono photo)

sequential as the quantitative measurable data. To simply put, he possesses all the necessities to be the Giants’ next head coach.

40 • December 18, 2025 - December 24, 2025

THE NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS

Sports Is the Knicks’ NBA Cup championship a sign of another league title?

By JAIME C. HARRIS AmNews Sports Editor The Knicks’ mantra should be “All that matters is June.”

That’s when the NBA Finals are played. For a team that has made it to the Eastern Conference semifinals in 2023 and then the conference finals last season, both under former head coach Tom Thibodeau, anything less than an NBA Finals appearance this season under their current head coach Mike Brown will be an abject disappointment. So far, Brown has skillfully guided his team.

However, there are no qualifiers, no ifs, ands, or buts: It’s Finals or failure. Even team captain Jalen Brunson said as much after the Knicks were bounced by the Indiana Pacers in last season’s conference finals. It’s why Thibodeau was fired.

It’s why owner James Dolan has made a massive financial investment in the contracts of Jalen Brunson ($156.5 million), Karl-An-

thony Towns ($220.4 million), and OG Anunoby ($212.5 million). It’s the reason team president Leon Rose parted with five first-round draft picks, traded to the Nets in June 2024, for Mikal Bridges and then later signed him to a lucrative extension ($150 million).

The Knicks’ NBA Cup Championship win on Tuesday night in Las Vegas can be viewed as a result of the front office building a formidable roster and worthy of a short celebration. The most pleasing takeaway is the players that aren’t on $150 million-plus guaranteed multiyear deals will earn nearly $531,000 in bonuses.

A lot of dough for 99% of the American population, including rising second-year Knicks guard Tyler Kolek ($2.66 million per year) and guard Miles “Deuce” McBride, whose three-year, $13 million deal has an average annual value of $4,333,333. Since signing that rookie extension in December 2023 — which runs through the end of next season — McBride has emerged as

one the most impactful two-way second unit players in the league.

The Cup victory is not predictive or emblematic of the Knicks’ championship prospects. Too many variables exist. The NBA trade deadline is still seven weeks away with Giannis Antetokounmpo looming as a force that could singularly shift the balance of power in the Eastern Conference if he’s traded to a contending team.

So the Knicks are back on the grind tonight facing the Pacers in Indiana, the Philadelphia 76ers at Madison Square Garden tomorrow night, the Miami Heat at MSG again on Sunday, and the Minnesota Timberwolves next Tuesday on the road.

The Cup chip will rapidly become a satisfying but fleeting achievement. The ultimate objective will be ahead of them. They’ll face the Spurs again on December 31 at San Antonio and March 3 at MSG. The barometers will become increasingly substantial and telling as the season progresses. And the stakes will be much higher.

New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) raises the Emirates NBA Cup championship trophy on Tuesday in Las Vegas after a 124-113 win over the San Antonio Spurs. (AP Photo/Ian Maule)

Eliminated from another postseason, the Giants’ coaching search may land on Black

By JAIME C. HARRIS AmNews Sports Editor The Giants are out of the playoffs again before the postseason has even started. The team was eliminated nearly one month ago, on November 23, in Week 12 of the NFL schedule after a 34-27 overtime defeat to the Detroit Lions on the road. Thirteen days earlier, the Giants fired their now former head coach Brian Daboll, who was in his fourth season at the helm.

The loss to the Lions marked the Giants’ earliest playoff elimination since 1976, almost 50 years ago. At 2-12 going into this Sunday’s home game versus the 6-8 Minnesota Vikings at MetLife Stadium, the Giants are tied with the Tennessee Titans, and Las Vegas Raiders, for the worst record in the league in a battle of the abysmal for the No. 1 pick in next April’s NFL Draft. The Giants’ game in Las Vegas against the Raiders on December 28 may decide which team gets the coveted but shroud-

Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores should be among the top candidates for NFL head coaching positions this offseason.

(AP Photo/Matt Krohn)

ed in losing spot.

Sunday’s game may be tinged with foreshadowing as the Giants may be looking across the field at the future in the person of Vikings defensive coordinator Brian

Flores, one of the best in the business. The 44-year-old Brownsville, Brooklyn native, a product of Poly Prep Country Day School located in the Dyker Heights section of the borough and graduate of

Boston College, should be one of the top head coaching candidates for the expected multiple openings that will be available in the AM News coming weeks as the NFL regular 11/27/25 season ends on January 4.

Since the founding of the franchise by the late Timothy Mara in 1925, first playing their home games at the Polo Grounds in AMnever Newshad Harlem, the Giants have a Black head coach. But their next 12/4/25 sideline CEO shouldn’t be selected based on ethnicity, a consciousness of breaking a glass ceiling, or shattering a justifiable long-held perception by many loyal Black AM News to fans that they have an aversion a Black man as the face of the or12/11/25 ganization.

The sole consideration should be who is the most qualified person to lead the team to playoff and AM News Super Bowl contention.

The Giants’ impending 12/18/25 search will ostensibly be spearheaded by co-owner John Mara, Tim Mara’s

grandson, and co-owner Steve Tisch. Current general manager Joe Schoen’s job status is tenuous.

The pursuit may ultimately land on Black as current Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman and Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Vance Joseph are among the most capable of the group.

Flores, a former Miami Dolphins head coach (2019-2021), still has a sports version of a fading scarlet letter on his forehead, painted, when he filed a class action lawsuit in February of 2022 — which still has not been settled — against the NFL, Giants, Broncos, and Dolphins alleging racial discrimination. The suit was filed less than a month after the Giants

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