Queens Chronicle 02-19-26

FINAL BELL

Says ‘no other choice’ without new state-approved taxes on the wealthy Mayor floats 9.5% property tax hike

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Having apparently been thwarted in his efforts to get the state to raise New York City’s income tax on wealthy earners, Mayor Mamdani proposed in his record-high preliminary budget plan a second option for closing a multibillion-dollar gap.

And criticism is coming from around the city.

Mamdani, in a Tuesday afternoon press conference, said the alternative is to raise property taxes by 9.5 percent and raid the city’s Rainy Day Fund and Retiree Health Benefits Trust fund for a combined $1.3 billion for the rest of this year and for fiscal year 2027, which begins July 1, money that Tuesday’s proposal plans to repay in the 2028 budget.

Mamdani is proposing a budget of $127 billion, an increase of nearly $5 billion over the $122.3 billion the city is forecast to spend through June 30; and more than $10 billion higher than the $115.9 former Mayor Eric Adams and the Council agreed on last June.

Projected deficits for fiscal years

2028 through 2030 are $6.6 billion, $6.75 billion and $7 billion, respectively.

Mamdani said there are two paths to balancing the 2027 budget.

“The first is the most sustainable and the fairest path,” Mamdani said in a video on his official YouTube feed. “This is the path of ending the raid on our city and raising taxes on the richest New Yorkers and the most profitable corporations. The onus for solving this crisis shouldn’t be placed on the back of working- and middleclass New Yorkers.

“If we do not go down this path, the city will go down the second, more harmful path. Faced with no choice, the city will have to exercise the only revenue lever fully within our control. We would have to raise property taxes and we also would be forced to raid our reserves.”

Mamdani called it the path of last resort, and reiterated that the plan is still a preliminary budget. He is required to submit his executive budget proposal this coming spring.

In a joint statement issued Tuesday, Council Speaker Julie Menin (D-Manhattan) and Finance Com-

on the table whatsoever,” Menin and Lee said. “The Council believes there are additional areas of savings and revenue that deserve careful scrutiny before increasing the burden on small property owners and neighborhood small businesses, which could worsen the affordability crisis.

They said the Council, as is standard practice, soon will release its own projections ahead of preliminary budget hearings and will conduct a thorough review of the Administration’s financial projections.

“Our goal is to deliver a balanced budget that protects essential services, addresses the affordability crisis, and reflects shared fiscal responsibility,” they said.

Lee was far from the only Queens official to reject the administration’s proposal.

mittee Chair Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) said there are at least a few alternatives the mayor missed.

“At a time when New Yorkers are already grappling with an affordability crisis, dipping into rainy day reserves and proposing significant property tax increases should not be

Deputy Speaker Nantasha Williams (D-St. Albans) was another one.

“To advance a tax increase without first addressing that inequity feels deeply tone-deaf to Black, Brown, and working-class homeowners like the families I represent

in Southeast Queens who are already shouldering a disproportionate share of the property tax burden,” she said in a statement to THE CITY.

Borough President Donovan Richards also came out in opposition.

“As I told Mayor Mamdani this afternoon, property tax hike upwards of 9.5 percent, as considered, is a nonstarter,” Richards said in an email. “Under no circumstance should we consider balancing our budget on the backs of working-class New Yorkers, especially seniors on fixed incomes and public sector workers who keep our city running.”

Richards, as he has for some time, advocated reform of the city’s property tax system that he said has homeowners in middle-class neighborhoods paying more in taxes than those in wealthier areas.

He also said Albany needs to work with municipal governments “and identify more sensible paths.”

Councilman Phil Wong (D-Maspeth) also called the proposal a nonstarter.

“In one of the highest taxed cities and states in the country, we cannot

continued on page 6

CONZA | MCNAMARA

CYNTHIA J. CONZA, ESQ.

EDWARD R. MCNAMARA, ESQ.

Mayor Mamdani has proposed a 9.5 percent property tax increase in lieu of a package from Albany raising taxes on wealthy earners and businesses. SCREENSHOT VIA NYC VIDEO / YOUTUBE

JHMC provides an update on new digs

First phase of facility’s state-of-the-art expansion to conclude this summer

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

In February 2023, Gov. Hochul announced $150 million in funding for a state-of-the-art emergency department expansion at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.

Officials broke ground on the $155 million project that June, and on Feb. 10, Dr. Andrew Rubin presented Community Board 9 with the latest updates on the hospital and the new development.

The emergency department at JHMC was built for a different era — it was designed to handle about 65,000 patients a year, according to Rubin, the hospital’s director of community affairs and government relations.

Today, JHMC’s emergency department treats roughly 120,000 annually.

Rubin said the expansion addresses the most immediate need: overcrowding.

“Five hospitals in Queens have closed,” he said. “And guess who’s gotten the extra patient volume? We did.”

The 48,534-square-foot facility is on an adjacent property previously used as a parking lot for physicians.

By the hospital’s estimate, the new emergency department will

mid-1990s, Rubin said.

Critical care capacity will expand as well. The hospital operates 26 intensive care beds but plans to increase that to 48, including a dedicated neuro-intensive care unit.

Construction is being completed in phases, with the first section expected to open this summer. Afterward, the existing emergency department will be renovated and adjacent space converted to support the enlarged facility.

Ambulatory outpatient medical, surgical and pediatric clinics will be relocated to make room for the expanded emergency department.

General surgery; ear, nose and throat; plastic surgery; neurosurgery; orthopedics; vascular surgery; urology; and wound care specialities have moved to 132-47 Metropolitan Ave. in Jamaica.

have the capacity to treat 150,000 patients each year and will be equipped with the latest technology and modern amenities.

“We’re going from three private treatment rooms to 33 private treatment rooms,” Rubin said.

Trauma care will also change

The expansion will increase clinical patient care space by about 60 percent, growing it from 55 to 91 treatment areas and replacing much of the open-bay layout with private rooms.

significantly. A single undersized trauma area will be replaced with four individual state-of-the-art trauma centers, each equipped with ceiling-mounted X-ray capability.

The hospital has operated as a Level 1 trauma center since the

The ED expansion is part of broader growth at the hospital, which is also planning a comprehensive cancer center in partnership with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

“It’s a great partnership,” Rubin said. “It’s going to be operated by Jamaica Hospital, so we’re going to be paying for the cost of the care, but we have Memorial Sloan Kettering as a partner.” Q

Brooklyn men charged for shooting at Woodhaven and Myrtle in 2021 Drug dispute led to murder: prosecutors

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Two Brooklyn men on Tuesday were charged in federal court for allegedly murdering a man at the intersection of Woodhaven Boulevard and Myrtle Avenue in Glendale in 2021.

Rafael Hernandez, 30, known as “Cap” and “Ralphy,” and Joibel Perez, 25, also known as “JP,” were charged with multiple crimes relating to the February 2021 murder of Akil Kornegay of Queens.

According to the court findings in the Eastern District of New York, Hernandez and Perez operated a lucrative drug trafficking business, distributing cannabis out of the Taylor Street-Wythe Avenue Housing Development in Brooklyn.

A dispute over a drug debt arose between the two defendants and Kornegay, who was a customer. He purchased marijuana from the defendants’

crew on several occasions, authorities said, including in 2020 and early 2021.

Text messages sent by Hernandez to Kornegay allegedly reflect demands for payment and accuse Kornegay of “ducking” the defendants and “playing kid games.”

As the dispute escalated, Kornegay and a second unnamed individual robbed the defendants of drugs, money and other items, according to documents from prosecutors.

In retaliation for that robbery, in the early morning hours of Feb. 26, 2021, the defendants allegedly stalked Kornegay, following him as he drove. Surveillance video captured Perez that morning as he departed his Brooklyn residence.

The duo pulled alongside Kornegay when he stopped at the intersection of Myrtle Avenue and Woodhaven Boulevard, according to the charges, and alleg-

edly fired multiple shots into the vehicle.

Kornegay sustained multiple gunshot wounds, crashed into a pole and died.

The defendants are charged with narcotics conspiracy; possessing, brandishing and discharging a firearm during a drug trafficking crime; and causing the death of Kornegay through use of a firearm.

If convicted, the duo face 10 years to life in prison.

“As alleged, the defendants chose to escalate a drug dispute to a deadly act of retaliation,” U.S. Attorney for the EDNY Joseph Nocella Jr. said in a statement.

“Such flagrant violence in our communities will not be tolerated and I commend the FBI Special Agents, NYPD detectives, and our prosecutors for their resolve and hard work resulting in today’s arrests. Our Office is committed to preventing the loss of life due to drug and gun crimes.”

Joibel Perez, above, was allegedly seen on surveillance footage exiting his home prior to the murder of Akil Kornegay over a drug dispute in 2021. He is one of two defendants accused of the crime. PHOTOS COURTESY EDNY

Construction of the state-of-the-art emergency department expansion at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center is underway. Phase one of the development is expected to be completed this summer, according to an official who presented at Community Board 9 last week. RENDERING COURTESY JHMC

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Families shocked by academy closures

Six Queens Catholic schools will shut down in June. What happens next?

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Hundreds of Catholic school students and their families were shocked last week when the Diocese of Brooklyn and Queens announced the closure of seven Catholic academies, including six in Queens.

Sacred Heart in Cambria Heights; St. Bartholomew in Elmhurst; St. Nicholas of Tolentine in Jamaica; Incarnation in Queens Village; St. Thomas the Apostle in Woodhaven; St. Elizabeth in Ozone Park; and Our Lady of Trust in Brooklyn will all permanently close their doors in June, following the end of the school year.

The Diocese attributed the closures to “significant enrollment declines” resulting in deficits totaling millions of dollars. Provided enrollment data showed sharp declines from 2019.

While St. Nicholas of Tolentine had 320 students enrolled in 2019, in 2025, there were 144.

At Incarnation, there were 183 students in 2019, and just 98 enrolled in 2025.

None of the closing schools had more than 160 students enrolled in 2025.

Students and families were encouraged to visit catholicschoolsbq.org/schooltransitions for assistance and further information.

On the web page, the Diocese provides contacts for general information and financial aid, and recommends schools in close proximity to the closing institutions.

In a letter to parents that was posted by the school to social media, the Board of Trustees for St. Elizabeth Catholic Academy said the decision to close was based on two primary factors: a demographic shift and long-term facility viability.

enrollment and finances.”

The post garnered dozens of comments.

“Our family has beautiful memories there and we are truly saddened by this news,” one resident wrote. Another said, “This school was the foundation of my successes and the source of many of the lasting friendships in my life.”

“We have worked diligently to strengthen the school.”

The Board of Directors for Sacred Heart Catholic Academy, in its own letter to parents that was later shared on alumni Facebook groups, said the decision was not made lightly.

— St. Elizabeth Catholic Academy Board of Trustees, in a letter to parents

“To be clear, SECA is not closing because the school’s day-to-day operating performance is failing,” the letter said. “We have worked diligently to strengthen the school given real prior significant challenges in

Property tax

continued from page 2

keep relying on property taxes and other new revenue instead of auditing programs that don’t serve New Yorkers, ending wasteful no-bid contracts, and taking a hard look at the endless tax burden tied to services connected to the migrant crisis,” Wong said in a statement.

“I cannot go back to my constituents and ask them to pay more until City Hall proves it is living within its means and prioritizing essential services,” the councilman added.

City Comptroller Mark Levine, in

“Unfortunately, ongoing financial challenges combined with declining enrollment have made it impossible to continue operating the school in a responsible and sustainable way.”

The Chronicle reached out to the six Queens academies’ staff for comment on the closures but did not receive a response by publication, likely due to the winter recess.

a press release on his official website, said Mamdani presents the scale of the city’s financial difficulties accurately.

But he also said Mamdani’s second path comes with great risks.

“To rely on a property tax increase and a significant drawdown of reserves to close our gap would have dire consequences,” he said. “Our property tax system is profoundly unfair and inconsistent, and an across-the-board increase in this tax would be regressive. Drawing down reserves during a period of economic growth would leave us vulnerable to economic turbulence next year.

At Incarnation Catholic Academy, students recently created valentine crafts that reflected their adoration for the institution following the news of its closure.

Photos of hearts with messages written on them were posted to the school’s Facebook page.

“Thank you Incarnation Catholic Academy for all of the knowledge and friendships I have gained over the years,” one valentine read.

On social media, some parents and alumni credited the decrease in enrollment at Catholic schools to tuition costs.

“No one can afford the high tuitions required for these schools,” one resident wrote. Another said that decades ago there were “plenty of nuns as teachers, which helped to lower the costs of running the schools.”

One Forest Hills public school teacher, who started her career at a Catholic school in Brooklyn, echoed the sentiment.

“The quality of public school education may be different from a Catholic school, at least depending on the district and neighborhood,” she told the Chronicle, under condi-

Levine admitte there are no easy options.

“But to avoid the harm of increasing property taxes and drawing down reserves, we need to find greater efficiencies and savings across New York City government and reconfigure programs that are growing at an unsustainable rate,” he said. “We also undoubtedly need greater assistance from Albany, to further rectify the years-long funding imbalance between the City and the State.”

Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, wasn’t as diplomatic.

“Mayor Mamdani’s Preliminary

tion of anonymity in fear of retribution. “But it’s not a big enough difference to shell out tuition costs for a Catholic school when a student can also get a great education for free at a public school.”

She added, “Unless it’s strictly for religious purposes, I’m not sure [Catholic schools] are worth it for the average lower-tomiddle class family.”

Other Catholic schools located near the closing ones are expecting an influx of students next September.

The closures will leave six vacant school buildings in Queens. As the city Department of Education grapples with trying to meet the state class size mandate, the Chronicle reached out to ask whether the agency has looked at acquiring them, but did not receive a response back by deadline.

But the School Construction Authority, which manages the design, construction and renovation of city schools, may be interested.

“We have a close relationship with the diocese,” SCA Spokesperson Kevin Ortiz told the Chronicle in an email. “We appreciate all referrals and are exploring our options.”

John Quaglione, the deputy communications director and press secretary for the diocese, said there are no plans regarding the future of the school buildings at this point.

“The schools remain open until the end of this school year,” he said. “We probably won’t hear more on that until the summer.”

A spokesperson for Success Academy, which last year opened a charter school at the former location of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy in Howard Beach, said there is a “tremendous demand” for the network in Queens, with more than 3,200 applications received for 625 open seats in its existing six elementary and five middle schools in Queens next year.

“We do not plan to purchase,” the spokesperson said in an email. “There are 30,000 empty seats in public school space in Queens. We are hoping that the City will recognize that charter families deserve to have great schools and will put this underutilized space to its best use — to allow the highest performing school operators to reverse the achievement gap.” Q

Budget proposes a false choice: either the State raises personal income and business taxes or the City raises property taxes and saps money from reserves, including those to protect New Yorkers from a recession,” Rein said.

“The best choice is to eliminate spending that does not improve New Yorkers’ lives and make government more efficient and effective,” Rein said. “The Mayor should ensure that every one of the people’s $127 billion is used well, before asking them to dig into their pockets.

Rein said by reducing in-year reserves to $100 million, the city has given itself virtually no budget cush-

ion next year, when federal cuts and a tenuous economy could throw the budget out of balance.

He did say the Mamdani deserves kudos for presenting a budget that corrects prior administrations’ underbudgeting and accounts for current service levels and expected growth. Transparent budgets help all New Yorkers better understand the City’s challenges, he added.

“The City should redouble its efforts to find more substantial savings by the Executive Budget and commit to an affordable, efficient government that provides quality services for all New Yorkers,” Rein said. Q

Incarnation Catholic Academy in Queens Village, left, is one of six Catholic schools in Queens that will close this year. At right, a student from the school created a heartfelt valentine following news of the closure. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE, LEFT, AND FACEBOOK PHOTO VIA INCARNATION CA

Congressman talks guardrails and hopes as partial shutdown goes on Rein in ICE, reform immigration: Meeks

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The federal government has been partially shut down since last Saturday, after no deal was reached to fund the Department of Homeland Security past Feb. 13. As of press time, lawmakers did not seem any closer to reaching an agreement.

A proposal to restore DHS funding failed in the Senate last Thursday. President Trump signed a broad spending package for numerous agencies on Feb. 3, but the measure funding the DHS was temporary, as lawmakers negotiate Democrats’ pressure to rein in federal law enforcement amid an aggressive crackdown on illegal immigration.

Calls to restrict U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have intensified as of late, especially after agents in Minnesota fatally shot two American citizens, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, during tense confrontations.

“What is clear is that we have to have some accountability from ICE,” U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica) said in a phone interview last Thursday. “When you see American citizens being killed, folks in masks jumping out of cars, placing individuals under arrest without warrants ... these are all things that we’ve got to ensure do not continue to take place.”

U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), Congress’ top

Democrats, on Feb. 4 sent their Republican counterparts a list of 10 “guardrails” that they wish to impose on ICE. Among the demands are mask bans; requirements to show ID; prohibitions on using funds for operations near “sensitive locations” such as schools and churches; and mandatory body cameras.

The letter says also that DHS officers should not be entering private property without a judicial warrant, and should be required to verify that a person is not a citizen before detaining him or her.

“What we see is gestapo-like right now,” Meeks said, adding that operations in which masked officers in allblack are “knocking on doors, sometimes knocking doors down, picking people up off the street” are “not law enforcement,” and police would not be allowed to act in that manner. He said he would support uniforms that clearly identify agents as ICE, without masks.

U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks said ahead of the lapse in DHS funding after midnight Feb. 13 that it is “unfortunate” Republicans won’t hold ICE accountable.

Meeks said it is “very unfortunate” that Republicans do not wish to strike a deal or hold ICE accountable, adding that Trump should be involved in the negotiations, but he has been “a no-show.”

Democrats submitted a counteroffer Monday after they were not receptive to a White House proposal made last Wednesday. Trump

FAITH TALK

Pastor Stephen Roser

Stephen Roser is the pastor of Howard Beach Assembly of God Church

In a secular society that rejects the idea of God, there is no power higher than government, politics becomes a religion, and candidates become saviors.

The main problem today is not that the church is getting more political, but that politics is getting more spiritual, redefining marriage, erasing gender distinctions, promoting infant murder as a moral positive of reproductive rights, and using government-run schools to indoctrinate our children in these things.

Left-leaning radicals have become adamant about keeping Christians out of politics because biblical moral absolutes impede their vision of what the world needs to become.

The question is not whether some worldview is going to guide our nation, but which one? Whose morality will be imposed? Let us promote the mora-

lity that does not incur the wrath of God.

It is reprehensible that 40-50 million evangelical Christians don’t vote. If godly people won’t participate in the political system, godless people will.

Voting is not a sacrament. Communion, or the Eucharist, as a sacrament must be kept pure to make us pure. We are not required to vote for a candidate who has no impurity, but to choose one who promotes policies that will slow societal decay.

Jesus said that Christians are “the salt of the earth,” not the salt of the church. Salt was a preservative whose purpose was to slow decay. On election day, we must get out of our churches and into the world where the preservation is needed.

said some of their demands would be hard to approve, and that the desired mask ban for agents was rejected in a recent court ruling, the Associated Press reported.

Several published reports say immigration operations remain ongoing amid the funding lapse, due to money allocated in Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act. But other DHS entities,

such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Transportation Security Administration, could suffer over time.

Meeks said he signed onto a bill that would provide funding for other DHS agencies, but not ICE. It was introduced and referred to the Appropriations and Budget Committees last Tuesday.

The House bill funding the DHS passed 220-207 on Jan. 22. Federal lawmakers are on recess until Monday.

Beyond funding, Meeks called for comprehensive immigration reform, including paths to citizenship for Dreamers, people brought to the country without authorization as children, and those with Temporary Protected Status.

He said also that crossing the border without documentation is “very difficult” as of late, and that is “not a bad thing.”

Meeks said he supports apprehending and removing people convicted of felonies, but he has received calls about ICE “just roving the streets” and “grabbing people and throwing them in these vans.”

“We’re supposed to be going after the bad guys, not people that have been paying their taxes and have families,” he said. Q

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ

EDITORIAL AGEP

Is this Mayor Trumpdani’s tax ploy?

Maybe Mayor Mamdani got a tip or two from President Trump when they held their unexpectedly jovial tête-àtête at the White House last November. He certainly seems to be adopting the president’s negotiating tactics in his threat to raise property taxes 9.5 percent across the city.

Mamdani says a property tax hike is Plan B, the move he really does not want to make but will, if the governor holds her ground and refuses to hike income taxes on big earners and corporations to help fund all the good things he wants to do for the city.

The mayor is proposing a $127 billion budget for fiscal year 2027, nearly $5 billion more than the city will spend this fiscal year and $11 billion above the $116 billion actually agreed upon.

Facing a supposed $12 billion deficit between this year and next, the city magically found $5 billion to help close the gap. Then the governor announced another $1.5 billion in aid from the state. At this rate, if Mamdani would just keep the spending hike to somewhere around the rate of inflation, he might balance the budget without raising taxes at all. But that is not what he wants to do.

So is he trying to do something like Trump has done with tariffs, announcing an outrageous opening gambit and then settling for much less, which perhaps is what he wanted all along? Maybe. He’d better hope it’s such a game of chess and that he knows what

he’s doing, because his proposal was nearly universally condemned right from the start. And it is just a proposal — the final spending plan is a joint effort of the mayor and City Council. The two lawmakers who matter most on the issue, Council Speaker Julie Menin of Manhattan and Budget Committee Chair Linda Lee of northeastern Queens, immediately said property tax hikes “should not be on the table whatsoever.”

Deputy Speaker Nantasha Williams of Southeast Queens said the idea “feels deeply tone-deaf” without reform of the system, and Borough President Donovan Richards said a hike “upwards of 9.5 percent, as considered, is a nonstarter.” They were not alone.

The idea should be a nonstarter. For one, if taxes go up on property owners, rents go up on tenants, which is the opposite of the platform Mamdani ran on. The Rent Guidelines Board can only block hikes on about half of apartments, and fewer than that in Queens. And higher taxes will only help feed the exodus of people from the city. New York State is already set to lose two congressional seats after the next Census, and we don’t want to make it three.

People already pay higher property taxes as their assessed values rise. Mamdani should learn to work with the city’s alreadymassive revenue and forget about being Mayor Trumpdani, if that’s his ploy. The only acceptable property tax rate hike is zero.

Just charges

Mayor Mamdani doesn’t think Jabez Chakraborty should be charged for (allegedly, but on video) rushing at cops with a raised butcher knife in his hand, because the Briarwood man has mental issues.

Mayor Mamdani is wrong. It’s also none of his business. The Queens District Attorney’s Office is an independent creature of the state. DA Melinda Katz does not answer to him. She was right to present the facts to a grand jury, and the people were right to indict the man for attempted assault and weapon possession.

That doesn’t mean he will be convicted or will go to prison. But we applaud Katz for bringing the case forward, for adhering to the rule of law, and for not listening to the mayor’s idealistic fantasies about justice.

MARK WEIDLER

President & Publisher

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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Pass Alzheimer’s bill

Dear Editor:

In a time when it’s increasingly challenging for members of Congress to hold town halls, I commend Rep. Greg Meeks for recently offering one by phone. So many people participated that I was unable to get through to ask him to support a bill that means a lot to me — the Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention Act.

ASAP will create a pathway for Medicare to cover FDA-approved blood tests to screen for Alzheimer’s disease.

Scientists now know that Alzheimer’s begins up to 20 years before the onset of symptoms, and blood tests can detect those biomarkers. Diagnosing Alzheimer’s sooner in the process allows people to address risk factors to slow cognitive decline, take advantage of available medications, and participate in clinical trials of experimental treatments. Most importantly, it will give people more time to be with their loved ones.

I realize how much it would mean to have this extra time, as I lost my mom in 2024 and am currently caring for my father, who has dementia. My personal experiences with Alzheimer’s/dementia prompted me to volunteer as an advocate for the Alzheimer’s Association and help raise awareness of this heartbreaking disease.

Identifying Alzheimer’s/dementia when people can benefit from available resources will be a game-changer. Especially in NYC, which has

some of the country’s highest rates of prevalence of Alzheimer’s, these tests need to be accessible to everyone. Join me in urging Rep. Meeks to co-sponsor ASAP (HR 6130) today! Jennifer Nazon Alzheimer’s Association advocate Cambria Heights

Speed up clean energy

Dear Editor:

We’ve read about the rapid growth of data centers supporting artificial intelligence and requiring vast amounts of electricity, which strain electrical grids and increase our bills. We need to add more supply to the grid, and to fight climate change those sources should be clean energy — primarily solar and wind power. Unfortunately, the permitting process for such projects is slowed by cumbersome requirements, interagency coordination issues, and litigation risks.

The vast majority of proposed energy projects will provide clean energy because they’re

cheaper. In 2025 nearly 90 percent of newly developed energy projects were solar or wind. We need to build clean energy projects more quickly for our health and to reduce blackouts, make energy more affordable, and help stop climate change.

Email your senators and representative in Congress — or call them at (202) 224-3121 to support commonsense permitting reform that protects the public and the environment.

Gary Jump Itasca, Ill. The writer is a volunteer with Citizens’ Climate Lobby.

Research cultivated meat

Dear Editor:

While the topic has faded from public discussion, the threat remains of another pandemic, à la Covid-19, spreading around the globe and leaving devastation in its wake. To help prevent this possibility, our political leaders should support state and federal funding of cultivated-

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

meat research. The new protein is grown from livestock cells, without slaughter. Animal agriculture is a frequent cause of zoonotic diseases making the jump to humans.

While growing cultivated meat is now technologically feasible, it’s too expensive to mass produce. Further study will fix this. Let’s build facilities like the Tufts University Center for Cellular Agriculture at schools across the country. I have no doubt that, working together, researchers can overcome the remaining scientific barriers to making cheap, slaughter-free meat. Among other things, this will be a significant boon for public health.

Jon Hochschartner Granby, Conn.

Summer dreams

Dear Editor:

Release me from winter ...

Summer beaches, I am ready ... To find gold among the sand ...

Eva Julietta Tortora Manhattan

Crockett for president

Dear Editor:

Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) stormed out of a congressional hearing after destroying U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi for 5 minutes. She did not ask Bondi one question. Why should she? She knew Bondi would refuse to answer basic yes-or-no questions.

Crockett attacked Bondi over her handling of the release of the Epstein files, as well as numerous other recent scandals related to Bondi’s work with the Department of Justice. Crockett spoke the truth: “This is a big coverup. And this administration is still engaged in it. In fact, this administration is complicit!” She continued, “But there are numerous other scandals, like how the DOJ is obstructing justice in the investigations of the rogue agents who have murdered American citizens or how the DOJ seized voter data from Fulton County in an attempt to steal the 2026 midterm elections, or how federal agents have Tom Homan on tape accepting a bribe, and your agency killed the investigation, or how your agency is ready to give the president a $230 million payday, which is unconstitutional. The Constitution is clear — the president shall not receive any payment except his salary while in office.

“The fact of the matter is that you will be remembered as one of the worst attorney generals in history, an attorney general who has prioritized obstruction over justice, corruption over the law and fealty to the president over loyalty to the Constitution.” God bless her.

I have nothing to add except this: Jasmine Crockett for president!

Robert LaRosa Sr. Whitestone

Whites won’t do the work

Dear Editor:

How many of the blue-collar MAGA white men and women will do the jobs that illegal immigrants do in picking fruits and vegetables, working in nursing homes and hospitals, doing the jobs you literally don’t want to touch?

What will happen to food costs because

prices will go up if you take those jobs, and minimum wages and healthcare benefits have to be paid? Who will you blame then? Biden, Obama, Hillary, Nancy? Who?

Stew Frimer Forest Hills

Fascism knocks

Dear Editor:

A dark cloud is descending on this country. Fascism is knocking at the door.

If left unchecked, President Trump’s policies are fast leading us toward a form of fascistic authoritarianism. If you follow the rise of all the dictatorships in world history, Trump checks all the boxes. Centralized power without checks and balances, silencing of the press, disregard for the judiciary, unmitigated graft and corruption, and, of course, a divine-like belief that only one person is capable of “solving” all our problems.

The America we are seeing today bears no resemblance to the country we all knew just a short time ago.

Hooded, heavily armed thugs marauding the streets, assaulting and dragging people from their vehicles, breaking down doors without valid warrants, and of course, as was the case with Renee Good and Alex Pretti, murdering peaceful protesters.

The executive branch running roughshod over Congress, creating an imperial presidency threatening the very fabric of our democracy. Unprecedented corruption and graft, with no consequences.

One has to realize that all this brutality and terror has nothing to do with “fixing” immigration or “public safety.” The ultimate aim is to sow fear and chaos, out of ulterior political motives. Trump wants to discredit or cancel the midterm elections, as he’s all too aware of his precipitous poll numbers and rising public anger against him and the Republicans. Thus, maintain power at all cost.

We need a coordinated nationwide movement, including peaceful civil disobedience, to counter this unprecedented assault on our democracy. Before it’s too late!

Davor Grancaric Hillcrest

Unmask ICE agents

Dear Editor:

“People will do things under the cover of darkness they would not do in the light.” That adage explains why Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents should not wear masks. If their faces were uncovered like other law enforcement officials, they would be less likely to commit horrendous acts of violence against immigrants and American citizens.

Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens

Remembering the Rev. Jesse Jackson

Civil

rights activist and leader died Tuesday at 84; Queens officials react

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

For generations of Americans, the struggle for equality sounded like the sermons and rallies of the Rev. Jesse Jackson, a figure who moved from the front lines of the civil rights movement to the presidential campaign trail and remained a moral agitator in moments of national crisis.

Jackson sat in against Jim Crow laws, walked alongside the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and united Black Americans by founding the Rainbow-PUSH Coalition. He stepped down from that group in 2017 following his Parkinson’s diagnosis.

A powerful orator, Jackson’s trademark phrases, “I am somebody” and “keep hope alive,” echoed across the decades, becoming shorthand for the broader fight for civil rights.

He was notably at the Lorraine Motel in Tennessee in 1968 with King when the civil rights icon was assassinated. Jackson said he cradled King’s head in his arms as he died, though some reject that claim.

Jackson was mourned across the boroughs after the news of his death broke on the morning of Feb. 17. He was 84.

Among the first to react to his passing was Public Advocate Jumaane Williams.

“We’ve lost an absolute icon of American history in this country,” Williams said in a press statement. “Reverend Jackson waged a lifelong crusade for racial justice and social progress, driven by extraordinary courage and unwavering clarity of his convictions.”

He recalled Jackson’s life of service and added, “In the last decade, I had the privilege to have been able to meet and honor the man I had seen in streets and on screens throughout my life. I pray that in his passing, Reverend Jackson has the inspirational impact on others that he had in life, providing the push needed to build momentum toward true justice.”

Rev. Jesse Jackson, a prominent, charismatic champion of civil rights, died Tuesday at 84. At right, Jackson participates in a 2008 joint hearing at City Hall with then-Councilmembers and now state Sens. Leroy Comrie, at top, and James Sanders Jr., addressing the national foreclosure crisis impacting communities of color. PHOTO VIA WIKIPEDIA, LEFT, AND COURTESY NYS SENATE

he said. “My prayers are with his family and loved ones during this time. May we honor his life by continuing the work.”

State Sen. James Sanders Jr. (D-South Ozone Park) said, “We mourn the passing of Rev. Jesse Jackson, a giant who stood in the gap when communities needed him most. His life was a living example of justice in action, and his courage and compassion inspired generations.”

He went on, “As I continue the work of protecting our communities and advancing economic fairness, I carry his example with me. Now it is our responsibility to keep marching forward in the spirit he showed us.”

“His life reminds us that progress is not granted; it is claimed.”

— City Council Deputy Speaker Nantasha Williams

State Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) told the Chronicle that Jackson’s passing “is a time for reflection and appreciation for someone that impacted the entire world.”

He said Jackson was a giant in the civil rights movement and a powerful voice for those who too often went unheard.

“He dedicated his life to fighting for justice, economic opportunity and political empowerment, always pushing this country to be better and to do better,” Comrie said. “He believed deeply in organizing at the grassroots level, building coalitions, and making sure everyday people had a seat at the table. That commitment to the people is what defined his leadership and continues to shape movements across this nation.”

Comrie said that because of Jackson’s leadership, doors were opened and barriers broken.

“His legacy lives on in the continued fight for fairness, equality and opportunity for all,”

Jackson’s career was not without controversy, such as when he called New York City “Hymietown,” something he later apologized for, with the Union for Reform Judaism on Tuesday calling him an ally in the fight against anti-Semitism. He also was criticized by some for his Rainbow-PUSH Coalition’s techniques to pressure businesses to diversify.

But many appreciated his approach and the results deeply.

City Council Deputy Speaker Nantasha Williams in an email said, “Rev. Jesse Jackson was never comfortable with the status quo, and that was the point. He challenged this country to confront its contradictions, to reconcile its rhetoric about freedom and opportunity with the lived reality of Black communities and working families.”

Williams added, “As a Black woman in public service, I am deeply aware that the space I occupy today was shaped by leaders like him who were willing to disrupt, to challenge, and to insist on being counted. His life reminds us that progress is not granted; it is claimed. We honor him best not only with words, but with continued action rooted in

collective people’s power. May we honor his legacy not only in words, but in action.”

Assemblymember Larinda Hooks (D-Corona) told the Chronicle, “Rev. Jesse Jackson stood alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement, but what defined his legacy is that he never stepped away from the fight. He did not hide when progress slowed or when the work became difficult; he stayed the course for our people.”

She continued, “Leaders like Rev. Jackson paved the way for someone like me to serve. Because he expanded political power and challenged this country to live up to its promise, Black leaders today are able to stand in spaces that once excluded us, including right here in Queens. His life reminds us that justice requires endurance. May he rest in power.”

community, courage, and conviction.”

Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton) on X said, “Rest in power, Rev. Jesse Jackson. Organizer. Orator. Coalitionbuilder. He bent the moral arc with his bare hands. We honor him by doing the work — louder, smarter, together.”

Councilmember Shanel Thomas-Henry (D-Corona), in an emailed statement to the Chronicle, said, “We’ve lost a giant of the civil rights movement and an architect of modern Black political power. Reverend Jesse Jackson dedicated his life to expanding what justice looks like in America and who gets to claim it.”

She recalled his accomplishments and added, “Reverend Jackson understood that our struggles are interconnected. Because he was bold enough to organize and run, others like me had the courage to lead.

“As a Black woman serving in public office, I stand on the shoulders of leaders like Reverend Jackson who dared to challenge the system and reimagine what was possible. His life reminds us that progress requires courage, partnerships, and an unshakable belief in

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said on X, “Rev. Jesse Jackson taught us to keep hope alive when the world felt heavy. His voice his courage and his blueprint for justice will continue to echo through every generation especially in times like these.”

Mayor Mamdani called Jackson a “giant of the civil rights movement who never stopped demanding that America live up to its promise.”

He added, “He marched, he ran, he organized and he preached justice without apology. May we honor him not just in words, but in struggle.”

U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez (D-Bronx, Queens) said Jackson’s dedication to fighting for racial justice and dignity for working people “shaped the moral arc of our nation. As we mourn his life, we must carry his light forward and work to keep hope alive. May he rest in peace.”

U.S. Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-Brooklyn, Queens) on social media shared a photo of her standing alongside Jackson.

“Rev. Jesse Jackson dedicated his life to the belief that our struggles are connected and that justice belongs to everyone,” Velázquez wrote. “To me, he was an adviser and a friend. To America, he was a moral compass. Rest in peace, Reverend. Keep hope alive.” Q

NYC Bin deliveries to resume

Those who ordered a city-mandated trash bin and have not receieved one should be getting it soon.

Following weeks of confusion, Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) on Tuesday shared an email from Travis Dowell, vice president of sales for Otto Environmental Systems, the NYC Bin manufacturer, who said deliveries were set to resume Feb. 18. Those with questions or who wish to request a refund are encouraged to reach out via email to info@otto-usa.com.

Ariola in a statement said she’s glad to see Otto resume deliveries, but added that it is unacceptable the situation “was ever allowed to drag on in the first place.”

“If the City mandates something, it must be ready to execute it properly,” Ariola said. “This did not happen. I will continue pushing for accountability and common sense when it comes to policies that directly impact our neighborhoods.” Q — Kristen Guglielmo

All properties with one to nine residential units are required to use the NYC Bin by June or face fines. While once available for purchase online, they now can only be obtained at The Home Depot.

The

Valentine’s dinner brings joy to HB AOG

Residents were all smiles last Friday as Howard Beach Assembly of God, at 158-31 99 St., hosted a Valentine’s spaghetti dinner. Entertainment for the evening was presented by Tomasina Decresenzo, with mic at top center, who is known in the community for her acting and stand-up comedy routines. Music was provided by Michael Roser, who

sang familiar love songs that had attendees on their feet.

The dinner was planned to raise funds to support the church’s upcoming May 12 mission trip to Trinidad, where the members will give toys and clothing to needy children and families. Additional donations to support the mission may be dropped off at the church.

PHOTOS BY

CHARLES FIUMANO

GROW YOUR EARNINGS

Growing youth vape crisis must be addressed now

by Michael Seilback

There is nothing more important than the health and safety of our nation’s youth. But for more than a decade, since the launch of e-cigarettes and vaping devices, young people have put their health at risk on a daily basis. After e-cigarette manufacturer JUUL introduced a new nicotine delivery system, and coupled it with a relentless online, youth-focused marketing campaign, an estimated 27.5 percent of high school students in America reported using e-cigarettes — the highest level recorded in national surveys.

And in 2021, more than 75 percent of middle and high school students reported exposure to marketing or advertising of any nicotine or tobacco product — including e-cigarettes.

We’ve seen these aggressive marketing tactics used by Big Tobacco before. Years ago, Joe Camel made cigarettes seem fun and benign; today, vivid colors and sweet flavors — along with a massive social media influencer campaign — are doing the same thing.

Young people are being marketed products including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches that act like poison pills, with colorful ads and fruity, sweet and minty flavors that appeal to their age group. Although the packaging and flavoring of some of these products might seem harmless, the nicotine they contain is harmful and highly addictive.

Emay contribute to disease. These financial incentives risk undermining public health messaging and research integrity.

These firms must be held accountable.

At the local level, New York officials have taken strong legal action against vape companies. Under New York Attorney General Letitia James, the state has sued major e-cigarette distributors for marketing and selling flavored vaping products that appeal to youth in violation of state laws, seeking hundreds of millions of dollars in penalties and a permanent ban on those products.

And under the former Adams administration, the City of New York has filed multiple lawsuits against numerous distributors of vape products for selling exotically flavored disposable e-cigarettes to retail vape and smoke shops, convenience stores, and directly to consumers in New York City through online sales, in violation of nearly every applicable federal, New York State, and New York City law governing the sale of such products.

-cigarettes are not harm-free options.

Many young people wrongly believe that e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches are healthier, harm-free alternatives to cigarettes. But they do not have all the facts. Nicotine can harm the developing adolescent brain and is highly addictive.

In 2019, the rapid rise in vaping coincided with an outbreak of severe lung injuries associated with vaping products, which led to more than 2,500 hospitalizations in the U.S. and claimed the life of a 17-year-old right here in New York City, the youngest reported vaping-related fatality at the time.

These sobering trends contributed to major retailers like Walgreens, Walmart and Kroger stopping the sale of e-cigarettes in 2019 amid concerns about youth use. However, Walgreens recently confirmed it had quietly restarted selling certain vaping products in the vast majority of its U.S. stores (6,000 out of 8,000) after its acquisition by private equity firm Sycamore Partners, reversing its earlier decision to stop sales.

What’s more, many private equity firms are now investing in healthcare sectors, including oncology practices — raising concerns about conflicts of interest when the same firms profit from products that

These were strong and necessary legal actions, and organizations like the American Lung Association have supported these efforts. While e-cigarette use among U.S. youth has declined significantly from its peak in 2019 to about 5.9 percent of middle and high school students in 2024, roughly 1.63 million students still vape, many of them using flavored products. We have also seen the use of nicotine pouches by high school students double in New York from 1.5 percent to 3 percent from 2022 to 2024.

This is why we must use every available resource to stop these industries from targeting young people. State and local actions are good initial steps, but we need our federal partners to step up as well. Leaders in Congress, including young advocates such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from right here in Queens, have a powerful platform to push for stronger nationwide protections. Just as the American Lung Association exists to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease, we must champion policies that promote equitable access to prevention and cessation resources for all young people. With a concerted effort among federal, state and local partners, we can make this future a reality. Q Michael Seilback is Assistant Vice President for Nationwide Advocacy, State Public Policy at the American Lung Association.

Dispensaries saved from having to relocate following 2025 clarification Law changes weed shop proximity rules

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

After a state interpretation of cannabis proximity rules threw dozens of New York dispensaries into uncertainty last July, lawmakers have rewritten the regulations, effectively grandfathering in many dispensaries that had been at risk of relocation.

Under legislation sponsored by state Sen. Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan) and Assemblymember Stefani Zinerman (D-Brooklyn) at the request of the state, the distance standard has changed.

The prior guidance required dispensaries to be at least 500 feet from a school’s property line, based on a reading of Cannabis Law 72 and Education Law definitions of school grounds.

Last July, the state Office of Cannabis Management said it had erroneously evaluated dispensary proximity based on whether a location was within 500 feet of a school building’s entrance, not the property line.

The clarification meant more than 150 licensed or prospective shops were suddenly considered out of compliance after previously receiving approval.

Forty-seven applicants and 105 licensees were impacted by the clarification — eight applicants and 13 licensees in Queens.

The new law instead bars adult-use cannabis retailers from operating on the same street and within 500 feet of a school building or place of worship, measured in a straight line from the center of a dispensary entrance to the center of a school or place of worship entrance, implementing a door-to-door proximity rule.

The bill defines entrances as doors regularly used by students, congregants or customers, excluding emergency exits and maintenance doors.

The law also deems previously issued licenses compliant, and it establishes new restrictions prohibiting dispensaries on the same street and within 200 feet of a house of worship.

Applicants who were told in writing their locations met earlier standards also will be evaluated under the pre-July 2025 review procedures, the law states.

The new regulations took effect immediately after Gov. Hochul signed them into law on Feb. 11.

The OCM did not respond to a request for comment by publication.

Osbert Orduña, the owner and chief executive officer of The Cannabis Place in Middle Village, was affected by last July’s

proximity change and lauded the new law that will allow his business to remain in place.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Governor and the members of the State Legislature for their outstanding leadership, open-mindedness, and swift action,” Osbert said in an emailed statement. “By signing S9155 into law, our state leaders have demonstrated a profound commitment to the success of the legal, regulated market and the social equity entrepreneurs like us, who have invested their livelihoods into building it.”

He called the legislation the “perfect balance,” adding that it maintains necessary safeguards for youth while providing legal dispensaries the geographical stability needed to operate securely.

“This collaborative victory in Albany ensures that the promise of a fair and equitable cannabis industry in New York remains alive and well,” Orduña said.

The bill passed the state Senate in a 35-24 vote. The Assembly vote count was not available online as of publication.

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) in a statement explained why he voted against the legislation.

“One of my greatest responsibilities as a legislator is protecting the health and safety of our children,” Addabbo said. “While I understand the intent behind this legislation, I remain concerned that it doesn’t properly address the issue of accessibility and visibility of cannabis products in areas where young people congregate.”

He added that schools in his district have multiple entrances and access points, which he said makes it difficult to ensure that cannabis retail locations “are truly a safe and appropriate distance away from where children enter and exit school grounds each day.” Q

More than 150 legal retail cannabis dispensaries will not have to relocate following the passage of new state legislation that enables them to remain in place.

Two victims lived in cellar amid rampant illegal conversions at tragic site Fire hero dies as aid and fury ramp up

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

“Alex” Thet Aung Oo gave his life trying to save his mother’s.

The 22-year-old man did not know she already had reached safety when he rushed into their burning home at 83-34 Dongan Ave. in Elmhurst on Feb. 9 to find her.

Thet Aung Oo suffered catastrophic burns in the rescue attempt and was transported from the scene of horror to the Intensive Care Unit at NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem, where he clung to life for a week. He died Feb. 16, according to a GoFundMe post written by close friend Alyssa Jensen.

“It is with unimaginable heartbreak that we share that Alex passed away last night,” Jensen said Tuesday.

“Over these past days, so many of you prayed, hoped, and stood beside him in his fight. Alex showed extraordinary strength, but his injuries were too severe. While our hearts are shattered, we find comfort in knowing he is no longer in pain.

“Alex was the most amazing person — the sweetest, kindest, and most selfless soul. He went back into the burning home to make sure his parents were safe, and that act alone speaks to the character he carried every day of his life. Alex was Muslim and believed deeply in God, and we truly believe God has accepted him with mercy and open arms. Heaven is lucky to have gained such a beautiful soul.”

She went on to say that the funds gathered, nearly $50,000 at press time, that had been marked for medical and recovery expenses now will go toward his funeral and assistance for his family to find new housing and rebuild their lives.

Thet Aung Oo was the third person to die due to the fire. Killed the day it happened were Miguelina

Alcantara, 34, and her baby daughter, Emma, who was only 17 days old. Several other people suffered injuries from mild to critical.

The doomed mother and daughter lived in the cellar of the wood-frame house, in one of many illegal apartments in both that building and one of the two on either side of it that also burned.

The other house full of illegal conversions, according to multiple sources, is 83-36 Dongan Ave. The other damaged building is 83-28, a brick apartment house.

During the hours it took them to knock down the furious blaze — a battle interrupted when they learned two people were missing and launched a search for them — firefighters also were concerned it could reach the large apartment building to the rear, FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito said during a Feb. 11 press conference at the site.

He described some of the challenges faced by the firefighters.

“We received information that there was a mother and child missing, and that they were last seen in the cellar of the building,” Esposito said.

“The incident commander made the decision for our firefighters to reenter that building — a very, very dangerous operation.”

The firefighters could not get in through the front due to the active fire and damage and went in through the cellar entrance in the rear instead, he said, where they encountered 4 feet of freezing water. They managed to find Alcantara, but despite renewed efforts, including going in through the cellar windows, the baby’s body could not be located until two days later, when heavy equipment was brought back in to remove more debris from the destroyed building.

Illegal conversions are a major problem, fire officials and others

FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito addresses the media outside the remnants of 83-34 Dongan Ave. in Elmhurst two days after it burned down. Above, the site after the few pieces left were demolished.

agree, and the cellar that turned deadly at 83-34 Dongan Ave. had been reported to the city Department of Buildings on Sept. 18, 2022.

“People are living in the basement where the only means of egress is through the backyard cellar door,” the complaint about the property reads. “Each weekend, there is a loud gathering with lots of people in the backyard, they talk loudly and play loud music until the early morning hours (10 pm-1 am).”

City records say the DOB was unable to gain access to the house on Nov. 15, 2022 and was turned away by a woman at the front door on Feb. 9, 2023.

The fire hit three years to the day after the second attempt.

The owners of the houses could not be reached for comment.

Among those furious at the living conditions of many in the community is Lester Lin, a businessman and activist who co-owns the Elm Roastery coffee shop on Broadway, just steps from the fire scene, and also heads the nonprofit City Mission, which has played a key role in getting donations to the survivors. Lin also is

in the real estate title business.

Noting what can happen to people in a fire who have no way out, he said via email, “That reality is devastating. The firemen said whenever they walk into a house that have illegal subdivision, it becomes a nightmare for them knowing that it becomes a maze in the midst of fire and smoke.”

He added that among the 47 people left homeless by the blaze are two day laborers who told him they lived in one of the houses and that about 15 people were residing in each. The two men are now staying with Lin.

“The men also told me that when there was no heat, everyone used space heaters,” Lin said. “If a house is legally built for two families, I seriously question whether the electrical system is designed to handle that many space heaters running at once during 20-degree weather last week.

“Peter, I own one of the largest title companies in New York State. I believe in home ownership. I believe in investment. I believe in landlords having the right to rent property.

“But there should be ZERO room for exploiting immigrants.”

To assist the survivors, Lin’s City

Mission has teamed up with the office of City Councilman Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights), New Life Church and Wat Buddha Thai Thavorn Vanaram Temple to collect and distribute needed supplies.

“On Valentine’s Day alone, over 150 bags of supplies were donated for those affected by the fire,” Lin said. “The community really showed up.”

One key player in the effort, as seen in a video posted to City Mission’s Instagram account, is Brianna Cea, who Lin said “grew up in the temple,” which is on 46th Avenue.

Also assisting survivors are the Red Cross, Asian Americans for Equality and Communities Resist, which advocates for low-income tenants and goes to court on their behalf.

Communities Resist spokesperson Christian Barbato said the group is working closely with Krishnan and the affected tenants to provide support and guidance. “Our hearts are broken by this tragedy, and we are committed to serving those in need,” Barbato said via email, adding, in response to a question, that he could not comment on whether any litigation is pending or planned.

Krishnan’s office said one thing it is doing is helping people retrieve their belongings when it is safe to do so, adding that the process can be problematic for those whose identification was destroyed in the fire.

“We are working with agencies to find a solution,” it said via email.

Asked about safe and unsafe apartments, legal and otherwise, the office said that the housing crisis requires more homes and the climate crisis requires resilient infrastructure that keeps people safe.

“Every tenant should have access to an affordable, clean home, with at least two safe exits,” it said. “We also need to make sure city agencies can inspect homes properly and enforce against neglectful landlords who may be illegally subdividing and creating hazardous conditions.” Q

SCREENSHOT VIA FDNY VIDEO / YOUTUBE; PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

At left, Thet Aung Oo, known as Alex, died a hero after rushing into the burning building on Dongan Avenue thinking his mother was still inside. Next to him, community activist Brianna Cea coordinates the collection of donated items for survivors at Wat Buddha Thai Thavorn Vanaram Temple in Elmhurst. At right, area businessman and activist Lester Lin is among those furious over illegal apartment conversions of the kind the fire victims lived in. The blaze also killed a mother and her baby. PHOTO VIA GOFUNDME / ALYSSA JENSEN, LEFT; SCREENSHOTS VIA CITYMISSION VIDEO / INSTAGRAM; PHOTO BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE, RIGHT

Man shot while advancing toward cops arraigned in JHMC hospital bed Chakraborty indicted in knife confrontation

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

A Queens grand jury last Friday indicted the Briarwood man who was shot in his home on Jan. 26 after advancing toward police officers with a large knife.

Jabez Chakraborty, 22, was later arraigned in his bed at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he remains in recovery from four gunshot wounds.

He has been charged with first-degree attempted assault and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon and is due to appear again on March 11. The office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said he faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.

Chakraborty has a history of mental issues. His family and even Mayor Mamdani have been saying that the case should not be prosecuted.

“As alleged, the defendant tried to attack a police officer while holding a large knife, ignored repeated commands to drop the weapon, and then forcibly pushed through a door the officer was using as a shield to protect himself,” Katz said in Friday’s press release. “The officer then discharged his weapon and hit Jabez Chakraborty four times.”

Her statement says police ordered him at least eight separate times to put the knife down.

“As prosecutors, we are duty-bound to follow the facts, evidence and circumstances where they lead us, including in cases that have a mental health component,” she said.

“These decisions, however, must be thoughtful, deliberative and based on the expertise of mental health professionals. Dispositions can take vastly different forms, and I will use the resources of my office to address the unique needs in this case while upholding my responsibility to keep this borough safe.”

The DA’s Office had requested remand, but Earle-Gargan cited Chakraborty’s lack of prior criminal convictions. Katz’s office said Wednesday that a partially secured bond of $100,000 has been posted. It could not be determined by the Chronicle’s deadline if the defendant remains hospitalized.

A family member had called 911 on Jan. 26 requesting an involuntary removal. A recording of the call released on Feb. 3 included a 911 operator informing her that police and EMS both are dispatched for such calls.

Katz’s description reflects a segment of body camera footage that was released the same day as the 911 recording.

The video shows officers being let into the house upon their arrival, at which time Chakraborty grabs a knife and walks toward the cops with a family member unable to restrain him.

Woman wanted for assault in Rich Hill

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

A woman is wanted by police for an assault that occurred in a restaurant last month in Richmond Hill.

According to the authorities, it was reported to them on Jan. 31 at around 5 p.m. that an unidentified female engaged a 65-year-old woman in a verbal dispute inside a restaurant at 110-15 101 Ave., within the confines of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct.

The suspect pushed the victim into a table and fled the location on foot, traveling to parts unknown.

EMS responded and transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center for minor injuries, cops said, where she was listed in stable condition.

The sought individual was last seen wearing a multicolored flannel shirt and black pants.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). One may also submit tips by going to crimestoppers.nypdonline.org; or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and entering

Police are searching for a female suspect who is accused of assaulting a woman inside of a restaurant in Richmond Hill on Jan. 31.

TIP577; or by going to @nypdtips on X.

All tips are strictly confidential.

NYPD CompStat data as of Feb. 8 shows misdemeanor assaults at an overall decrease in the 102, down 15.9 percent this year to date, from 44 in 2025, to 37 so far in 2026.

Felony assault is also down 17.1 percent this year to date in the 102, from 35 to 29. Q

Chakraborty was indicted Friday for an armed engagement with police in his home that ended with his being shot.

The family has been speaking through Desis Rising Up and Moving, an advocacy group for the city’s South Asian and IndoCaribbean communities.

The family has called for removing police from such responses. Julie Chakraborty, Jabez’s mother, made a statement through

DRUM last Friday evening.

“This is a nightmare,” she said on Facebook. “We didn’t need police, we just needed medical transport. When we called 911 for an ambulance, we never could have imagined that we would end up here today.

“Jabez and our family were safe in our home until the NYPD arrived. Now Jabez is recovering from multiple surgeries, handcuffed to a hospital bed. He has a long, difficult recovery ahead. Now, DA Katz wants to put him in prison. Hasn’t he suffered enough? Locking him up will destroy his life. All we want is for him to be able to heal.”

The NYPD asserts that the video and the 911 recording support the officers’ actions and disprove multiple claims by the family.

Mayor Mamdani, questioned at an unrelated press conference last Friday, repeated his belief that Chakraborty should not be charged. He also pushed again for the creation of his proposed Department of Public Safety, which he has yet to flesh out in detail.

“I have not directly spoken with the district attorney,” Mamdani said in a video posted by Channel 7 Eyewitness News. “I will say, however, that no family should have to endure this kind of pain. What they need right now is care, dignity and support. Jabez should not be prosecuted by the Queens district attorney.” Q

Be Tran’s alleged killer extradited, charged: DA

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

A man accused of killing 74-year-old Be Tran with his BMW and later setting the vehicle on fire was extradited from Germany to face a slew of indictment charges, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced last Wednesday.

According to the DA, 25-year-old Florin Stoian, whose true identity is believed to be Slaco Razmias, was barreling eastbound down Myrtle Avenue in Ridgewood at around 7:40 p.m. on Aug. 14, 2022, in a rented BMW X6 crossover SUV with a Florida license plate. Stoian allegedly drove over the double yellow line and entered the opposing lane of traffic.

When multiple cars approached him head on, he allegedly swerved back into the eastbound lane and hit Tran, who was crossing the roadway at Hancock Street. The victim was thrown to the pavement, enduring severe trauma to the head and body, and pronounced dead on the scene.

After the collision, Stoian allegedly fled, parked at a fire hydrant on 62nd Street, exited the car and walked away. At about 3:20 a.m., residents heard an explo-

sion and saw the BMW ablaze, and surveillance footage shows him running away from the scene, the DA said.

The fire, which was determined to be deliberate, spread to two cars parked nearby, overhead electrical wires, the sidewalk and the exterior of three homes, according to the DA. It also destroyed the BMW’s crash data recorder.

Detectives had been contacting state and federal law enforcement to locate the defendant. Early last year, he was identified as Razmias, an Irish national who was in custody in Germany under that name for a separate matter. The DA’s Office also associated the name Slavco Rostas with the defendant.

He was arraigned last Wednesday on indictment charges of second-degree manslaughter; criminally negligent homicide; second-, third- and fourth-degree arson; tampering with physical evidence; secondand fourth-degree criminal mischief; second-degree assault; leaving the scene of a collision and reckless driving.

Stoian was remanded and ordered to return to court April 2. He faces more than 25 years in prison, if convicted. Q

Jabez

SCREENSHOT VIA NYPD VIDEO

Feb. 12 marked seven years since NYPD Det. Brian Simonsen, inset, of the 102nd Precinct, was killed in the line of duty while responding to a robbery. To honor his life, legacy and service, a memorial Mass was held on the anniversary of his death at Holy Child Jesus Church in Richmond Hill.

His wife, Leanne, right, during the service spoke to the crowd of attendees, many of whom were NYPD personnel, above.

The 102nd Precinct posted photos of the service on social media and wrote, “We not only lost a hero detective, but we lost a truly wonderful person. His smile and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace Detective Brian Simonsen.” — Kristen Guglielmo

By Cynthia J. Conza, Esq.

Our clients often want to ensure they provide for their grandchildren in their estate planning. If your grandchildren are over eighteen they can inherit directly by naming them as beneficiaries in your will or trust. However, providing for your minor grandchildren in your estate requires thoughtful planning to ensure they receive their proper inheritance.

In New York minors can be named as a beneficiary in a will or trust, but they cannot own any of the property they inherit. Leaving an inheritance directly to a minor grandchild can result in court involvement that goes beyond the ordinary probate process in Surrogate’s Court. The court may appoint a guardian to control and manage the grandchild’s inheritance. This can lead to a long and expensive process where your family will have to attend court hearings and can last for years, and may involve the court appointment of an outsider to oversee

the inheritance.

Estate Planning Fundamentals: Providing for Your Grandchildren

One strategy to avoid this scenario is through a trust, where property is left to a trust for the benefit of your grandchildren. The property is legally owned by the trust and a trustee, chosen by yourself when you create the trust, manages the trust property for the benefit of your grandchildren. You may also use the trust to further control how the property is used by the trustee and how money is distributed to your grandchildren.

Further, a trust can be structured to protect the inheritances you leave for your grandchildren from your children’s divorces or creditors.

Proper planning will have a significant impact on your ability to protect your assets for your grandchildren and beneficiaries. Please feel free to contact me at cynthia@ conzamcnamara.com or (718) 845-5555 if you would like to discuss further.

Resignation clears path for Mamdani rent freeze Mayor can appoint board majority, getting numbers needed for campaign vow

by Samantha Maldonado THE CITY

This article was originally published on Feb. 17, 12:51 p.m. EDT by THE CITY

Mayor Zohran Mamdani will be able to appoint six members to the Rent Guidelines Board, giving him a majority of appointees to deliver his signature campaign proposal of a rent freeze for rent-stabilized apartments.

Alex Armlovich, a member of the board who was appointed by Mayor Eric Adams to a four-year term that runs through 2026, resigned Tuesday. He’s the third member to resign or signal intent to leave the board this month.

Armlovich said he did not resign for political reasons, but because he’d be taking on a new full-time job working on housing supply issues as a program officer at the philanthropy group Coefficient Giving.

The nine-member Rent Guidelines Board is appointed by the mayor and each year votes on rent levels for over a million rent-stabilized apartments in the five boroughs. Armlovich’s departure indicates that Mamdani could be closer to appointing members that would almost certainly align with his vision of delivering a rent freeze, which was a possibility that seemed less likely in the mayor’s first year because of holdover Adams-era appointments.

Board members’ terms run for as long as four years, so some appointed members stay on the board for longer than the mayor who appointed them is in office. It’s a way for past mayors to exert influence on the make-up of the board beyond their tenure. Armlovich was expected to be one of them.

But now with the recent resignations, Mamdani has a nearly clear

“I believe the greatest contribution I can make to New York right now is helping the coalition and the policy architecture for housing production in the city’s highest-opportunity neighborhoods, and especially near climate-friendly rail infrastructure,” Armlovich wrote in his resignation letter, which called rent regulation an important but “short-term patch” to solving the housing affordability crisis.

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Members of a tenant advocacy group chant “Freeze the Rent!” and “Mamdani” at the Rent Guidelines Board hearing, June 30, 2025. PHOTO BY ALEX KRALES / THE CITY

board to play with. He has the chance to appoint six new members. If the board votes for a rent freeze during its voting process this spring, that would put a stay on prices for about a third of all rental apartments in New York City. It would not be the first time the city has seen a rent

freeze from the RGB; during the de Blasio years, the board voted for a freeze three times.

“I’m grateful to Alex Armlovich for his service to New York City and commitment to building a more affordable city,” Deputy Mayor Leila Bozorg said in a statement. “I wish

him well and we look forward to appointing new members of the Rent Guidelines Board soon.”

Two members, Doug Apple and Reed Jordan, took themselves out of the board’s mix earlier than expected. Mamdani would’ve been able to replace both members, as Apple is chair and serves at the mayor’s discretion, and Jordan’s term was up at the end of 2025. But both could’ve stayed on the board until they were officially replaced.

Jordan resigned earlier this month, according to Andrew McLaughlin, the executive director of the RGB. Jordan did not return inquiries from THE CITY.

Apple on Friday confirmed to THE CITY his intention to leave.

“I don’t intend to remain on the board,” Apple said. “I served my term and I’m ready to move on to new things. I have a busy professional life and the Rent Guidelines Board does take up a significant amount of time.”

Board members are chosen to represent either tenants or landlords or to be “public members,” serving the

continued on page 21

Nine plead guilty to grand, petit larceny

State IG: ‘New York will not stand for putting greed above the public good’

by Naeisha Rose Editor

Rather than face up to 25 years in prison, nine people from throughout New York pleaded guilty to defrauding the state and federal government, announced the office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz on Feb. 13.

The thieves pleaded guilty to grand larceny in the fourth degree and petit larceny on various dates from May 2025 to February 2026.

“These nine defendants admitted to stealing thousands of dollars in state funds intended to support struggling businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Katz in a statement. “The funds were critical to helping New Yorkers survive an unprecedented crisis.”

As part of the plea deal, defendants Tufail Ahmed, 50, and Zakir Chowdhury, 59, both of Jamaica; Mahbub Malik, 41, of Astoria; Yousuf MD, 45, of Elmhurst; Mohammad Khan, 49, of Jamaica Hills; and Mohammed Chowdhury, 59, also known as Khokan Ashraf, of Jackson Heights; along with Nadeem Sheikh, 56, Tanvir Milon, 55, and Juned Khan, 56, of Long Island, have agreed to making restitution payments totaling $1,091,720. Malik also received a three-year conditional discharge.

The Chronicle previously reported that five of them filed multiple applications for the Covid-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Prosecutors said $760,00 has already been remitted to the state.

An investigation into the misuse of loan funds started by the state inspector general

Rent board

continued from page 20

wider population of New York City. Typically, tenant representatives vote against rent hikes because they say tenants can’t bear the increases, while landlord representatives — who are against rent freezes — also vote against the hikes because they say they aren’t high enough for struggling landlords. The public members and the chair serve as tiebreakers.

In the last days before Adams left office, he appointed Legal Services NYC Deputy Director Sagar Sharma as a new tenant representative, and reappointed lawyer Christina Smyth as a landlord representative.

New York University economist Arpit Gupta, a member who was reappointed by

was referred to the DA’s Office in May 2024, and revealed that around June 2020, each of the nine culprits submitted multiple applications to New York’s Empire Development Pandemic Small Business Recovery Grant Program on behalf of numerous small business corporations.

They all certified that the money was needed to cover business expenses such as payroll, commercial rent or mortgage payments, utilities and supplies, but most of the loan money received was transferred, in several cases, immediately, into the personal bank accounts of the defendants. An extensive review of the bank records associated with the defendants’ firms did not indicate any business activity prior to receiving the grant proceeds and did not reflect any revenue or expenses listed on the tax returns submitted with the original applications.

The defendants surrendered to the DA’s Office from May 6 to May 9, 2025, when they learned about the charges against them.

“I thank my office’s Frauds Bureau and the New York State Inspector General’s Office for their partnership in holding them accountable,” said Katz. The NYPD Squad assigned to the DA’s Office provided crucial assistance.

State Inspector General Lucy Lang said exploiting disaster relief funds for personal gain is both criminal and shameful at any time, particularly during a global health crisis.

“New York will not stand for putting greed above the public good,” said Lang in a statement in which she also thanked law enforcement partners for securing both the guilty pleas and taxpayer money. Q

Adams, told THE CITY he intended to complete his term, which runs through 2026.

Adams made another appointment to replace a departed public member of the board, but that person backed out right at the end of last year. It’s another spot for Mamdani to fill.

Legal Aid Society attorney Adán Soltren submitted his application seeking reappointment and said he hoped to continue serving on the board as a tenant representative.

Lawyer Robert Erhlich remained on the board for an additional three years beyond his three-year term, which officially ended in 2022. He did not respond to calls or texts for comment. Q

THE CITY (www.thecity.nyc) is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to hard-hitting reporting that serves the people of New York.

Nine people stole Covid-19 assistance funds. FILE PHOTO

Lament delayed repairs after 2023 fire; landlord blames property insurer Sunnyside tenants want to come home

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

More than two years after a five-alarm fire destroyed a Sunnyside apartment building and displaced hundreds, some tenants say their landlord is still asleep at the wheel.

Residents of 43-09 47 Ave. on Tuesday joined area City Councilmember Julie Won (D-Long Island City) to denounce what they termed “ongoing inaction and negligence” by A&E Real Estate. They say the firm has failed to repair damages due to “delays” caused by A&E and its insurance carrier, despite documentation showing more than $5 million in property damage and $40,000 in monthly housing costs.

“In 2023, A&E’s negligence forced 250 of our neighbors out of their homes days before Christmas, and today their ongoing negligence locks these families out for over two years while A&E delays repairs,” Won said in a press release.

Advocates are calling on A&E to work with tenants on a “fair resolution” that lets residents come home and receive more than $6 million in compensation to cover damages and expenses, Won’s office said.

“It is unacceptable that our neighbors remain displaced from their rent-stabilized homes due to corporate negligence and stalling tactics,” U.S. Rep. Nydia Velázquez

Councilmember Julie Won, center, and attorneys Brett Gallaway and Nelson Canter, right, stood with tenants urging A&E Real Estate to fix their building after a 2023 fire.

(D-Brooklyn, Queens) said. “We are demanding that A&E stop the delays, compensate these tenants, and ensure every resident can finally return to their community,”

Brett Gallaway, an attorney representing the A&E tenants in litigation, said offers made by the company and its carrier have been far from satisfactory. He looks forward to getting the case ready for trial.

A spokesperson for A&E said the company has taken “every possible step” to repair the building since the day of the fire, but the property insurance company has shown “zero interest in paying out claims despite its obligations,” hindering the rebuilding process.

“Let us be clear: if it were up to A&E, we would start rebuilding this property tomorrow,” the spokesperson said. “We know how

challenging this has been on our residents, which is why we offered every impacted household a new apartment in our portfolio at their existing rent, even if it came at a loss to A&E.” The statement continues that A&E provided financial support for essentials and paid for hotel accommodations.

“We have always put our residents first,” the spokesperson said, adding that A&E looks forward to working with involved parties to “compel” the insurer to meet its obligations and let residents return home.

Tenants and area leaders rallied about the same issue last summer. The New York Post reported at the time that the insurer Greater New York handles the building’s primary liability coverage, and the firm Chubb is responsible for excess claims. Seneca Insurance Co. issued the owner’s property insurance, the Post said.

Seneca could not be reached for comment ahead of press time.

The Chronicle reported at the time that the 2023 fire started when a contractor used an illegal torch to heat lead paint off a unit’s door frame. The blaze injured 14 people.

“It’s time for a change; it’s time for accountability,” tenant Judson Jones said. “It is time to demand that those entrusted with the care of our homes rise to meet the bare minimum of democracy.” Q

PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

Villa Russo Café opens at JFK’s Terminal 4

In 1954, George Russo’s father and uncle opened an Italian pizzeria in Richmond Hill. They soon expanded to a full-service restaurant, and broke ground on Il Palazzo Villa Russo catering hall in 1975.

For decades, generations of residents have patronized Villa Russo, at 101–12 Lefferts Blvd. in Richmond Hill, and Russo’s on the Bay, at 162-45 Cross Bay Blvd, in Howard Beach. The venues are known for their Italian specialty dishes that embrace the recipes and heritage

passed down through generations.

Now those passing through JFK Airport’s Terminal 4 will have an opportunity to enjoy a crown jewel of Queens with the opening of Villa Russo Café, a quick-serve stop at gate B24.

Villa Russo is a graduate of the Port Authority’s specialized training program intended to increase the number of regional and diverse businesses that are part of the concessions program at JFK.

“I’m proud and excited to be bringing my

family’s legacy into the global market at JFK’s T4,” Russo, center, said in a statement, adding that they built a reputation for excellence after humble beginnings.

“To think that now, over seven decades later, we’d be serving our family’s inspired recipes to international travelers at the gateway terminal to New York City is truly a testament to the American success story, as well as a personal dream come true for myself and my family.” — Kristen Guglielmo

Cats, coffee and storytime

All are welcome to Espurresso Café, at 208-03 35 Ave. in Bayside, on Saturday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m. to meet Queens’ own children’s book author Vanessa Benitez as she brings her heartwarming story to life with a live reading of “The Adventures of Puffy Cat and the Lost Name.”

The lighthearted story shines a light on the realities faced by stray animals. It follows Puffy Cat — based off Benitez’s own cat, Snarf — after she tumbles out of a garbage truck and searches for food, friendship and a sense of identity.

Espurresso Café is a unique destination where coffee lovers and cat enthusiasts can come together to savor delicious handcrafted beverages and snacks while spending quality time with lovable, adoptable felines.

Admission to the reading is free with the cost of an entree, and reservations are encouraged. One may go online to espurresso.com/reservation to claim a spot.

A portion of the book proceeds will go directly to For Animals Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to eliminating pet homelessness and education. Q

— Kristen Guglielmo

B SPORTS EAT

Mets dealt a bad hand

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Most players had not reported to the Mets’ spring training base in Port St. Lucie, Fla., when the first injury to a key player was reported. Shortstop Francisco Lindor, who underwent off-season surgery to remove fragments in his right elbow in October, went under the knife again last Wednesday to repair a broken hamate bone in his left hand.

The hamate is a small and delicate bone, so it is not surprising, as it is a common injury given how often players grip bats and baseballs. Other major leaguers in 2026 who faced the same diagnosis as Lindor were the sluggers from the Baltimore Orioles, Jackson Holliday, and the Arizona Diamondbacks, Corbin Carroll.

Mets executives are optimistic Lindor will be ready to go by Opening Day, and with a little luck he should be able to get in a few reps during spring training with his new double play partner, second baseman Marcus Semien.

Even if the best-case scenario were to occur, it would be advisable for both Mets management and Lindor not to rush things. Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez underwent a similar medical procedure last spring. He hurried back and his offense and defense were both so poor that he got demoted to the Mets’ Syracuse farm team.

It is also a long season. Lindor frequently has gotten off to cold starts that match the April

weather in Queens. When healthy, Lindo r almost never misses a game. A shortened season would benefit him, especially if the Mets were to make it to the postseason.

Lindor’s absence creates opportunity fo r perennial Mets prospect Ronny Mauricio to finally prove himself. For years Mauricio was considered the top prospect in the Mets’ minor league system, untouchable when other teams brought his name up in trade talks.

While Mauricio has shown flashes of being a five-tool player, the reality is his offense has not been good enough to stay in Flushing. In fairness, he may not have gotten the at-bats needed to get established against big-league pitching because of the glut of infielders on the roster.

With Luisangel Acuna dispatched to the Chicago White Sox in the Luis Robert trade, Mauricio should have no trouble getting playing time.

SNY will televise eight Mets spring training games, with the first being this Saturday against the Miami Marlins. WPIX will broadcast five games. Fans will get a bonus this Sunday when the YES Network shows the Mets taking on the Yankees in Tampa. WPIX will return the favor two weeks later when the Bronx Bombers visit Port St. Lucie. You can also catch select Mets and Yankees spring training games on the MLB Network. Q

See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

Scholarship available to students in SD 15

Qualified scholars may win $3,000 grant

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

College students and high school seniors entering college who reside in Senate District 15 are encouraged to apply for one of four $3,000 scholarships to be awarded by the New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators.

Because state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) is a member of the conference, pupils in his district are eligible. Students need not be of Italian-American heritage to apply.

There are two academic and two athletic scholarships available. Students can access and complete the application by visiting tinyurl.com/m9xmrjc4.

All applicants should have a grade point average of 85 or higher, be active in community service and extracurricular activities and demonstrate financial need.

Students applying for an athletic scholarship also must be involved in an organized sport. As long as one is qualified, a pupil can apply for both the academic and athletic scholarship opportunities.

The deadline to apply is March 16. The recipients will be selected by an outside independent review board and will be announced in April.

They will be recognized and presented with their scholarship award at a ceremony in Albany on May 18, Italian-American Day.

Addabbo in a statement said the scholarships are an excellent opportunity for high school seniors and college students who “have worked hard, distinguished themselves from their peers, and intend to pursue higher education.”

He added, “With college costs continually rising, scholarships can help to lessen the financial burden that is a concern for so many young people and their families. I encourage eligible students in my district to apply.”

The New York Conference of Italian American State Legislators is a bipartisan organization of state Senate and Assembly members who actively promote and celebrate the state’s Italian-American community. Q

PHOTO VIA THE PORT AUTHORITY OF NY AND NJ / FACEBOOK

H on classics

b y Mark L ord by Mark Lord

Afresh take on one of William Shake-

speare’s most popular comedies and an adaptation of a classic novel that is said to be “brimming with unexpected hilarity and romantic heart” will soon be taking center stage at Queens Theatre courtesy of The Acting Company, a professional troupe based in Manhattan.

Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which follows a pair of young lovers as they flee to an enchanted forest, where mistaken identities, romantic entanglements and comical transformations ensue, will play in repertory with a new rendering of Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations,” which traces the journey of a working-class orphan as he receives a sizable fortune and enters high society.

Each play will run for two performances only, between Feb. 26 and March 1.

The Acting Company’s producing artistic director, Devin Brain, said in a telephone interview that one of the greatest challenges in presenting classical pieces is “to make sure they don’t feel old.” The works, he said, should be “something we want to watch now, not museum pieces.”

Favorites by Dickens, Shakespeare Dickens, make quick

stop in Queens make stop in

As director of “Great Expectations,” presented here in a new treatment by Nikki Massoud, he made a point to “connect the Victorian period with our current day.”

The ubiquitous “Midsummer,” directed here by Michelle Athens, has been pared down to a tight 90 minutes, while, according to Brain, maintaining the plot and all the characters intact.

The Acting Company was founded in 1972 and has developed a reputation as one of the country’s outstanding touring troupes. Indeed, these two plays have been on the road since Dec. 3. They opened in California and are making their way back east, closing out the tour on their home turf at Queens Theatre.

Life on the road can be both invigorating and challenging, according to Christian Frost, an actor who, like his fellow cast members, appears in both productions, playing a total of seven characters.

“I like to play the physicality in each character,” he said, considering such

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX NO. 724806/2025 Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property

Mortgaged Premises: 117-15 221ST STREET, CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, NY 11411 Block: 12738, Lot: 161 THE MONEY SOURCE, INC., Plaintiff, vs. DEBORAH ABRAHAM, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM; ANTONIA ABRAHAM, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM; LINDA ABRAHAM A/K/A LINDA KINGSVILLE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM; PATRICK ABRAHAM, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM; ORLANDO ABRAHAM, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM; CURTIS ABRAHAM, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM; LEON ABRAHAM, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE ABRAHAM A/K/A GEORGE G. ABRAHAM, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general 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; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #1, “JOHN DOE #2” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last eleven names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants. To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $756,000.00 and interest, recorded on June 30, 2017, in CRFN 2017000242324, of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 117-15 221ST STREET, CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, NY 11411. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: January 15th, 2026 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, NY 11590, 516-280-7675

King Crossword Puzzle

Debra Wilson gave ’em mad laughs in S. Ozone Park I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Debra Renee Wilson was born in Queens on April 26, 1962. She has always been guarded and mum on her childhood, but public records show she grew up in and lived at 115-23 131 St. in South Ozone Park, sharing the house with Abie Wilson and Abie Wilson Jr.

Debra Wilson graduated from New York City High School for the Performing Arts and then headed to Syracuse University to continue her passion.

Her calling was improvisation sketch comedy. She was an original cast member of the show “MADtv” from 1995 to 2003. She gave standout performances imitating Oprah Winfrey and Whitney Houston and was recognized for going all in, with no boundaries, be they race, gender or culture.

In 2006, Wilson married Cliff Skelton, who came from a small ranch in the cowboy world of Calgary in Alberta, Canada.

She separated from the Canadian film director after four years.

Still working today, Wilson uses her platform to invite laughter and yet provoke thought on heavy issues.

The childhood home of “MADtv” comedienne Debra Wilson at 115-23 131 St. in South Ozone Park, as it looked in the 1960s, when she grew up there. INSET PHOTO BY GLENN FRANCIS VIA WIKIPEDIA

New vision, new voice in Irish language films

by Michael Gannon editor

Fís nua in Irish or Gaeilge, translates to new vision.

So when the New York Irish Center, located in Long Island City, was seeking a title for America’s first Irish language film festival, “Fís Nua/New Vision” seemed the appropriate choice.

The center and TG4, Ireland’s premier Irish language broadcaster, have curated five films, including two for a children’s day, to screen Friday and Saturday, Feb. 20 and 21.

The festival will kick off at 7 p.m. today, Feb. 19, at the center with a reception and panel discussion celebrating the renewed interest in the Irish language both in Ireland and in the United States

And don’t worry, non-Irish speakers — George Heslin, executive director of the center, said all the films will have subtitles.

“Most are making their American premiers,” Heslin said. “On the opening night we have a panel discussion discussing the Irish language and its impact on the media and other places. We wanted numerous genres, so we have features. We have documentaries. We have shorts and animation.”

He said resurgence of the language in Ireland has been on the upswing for more than 30 years. Children especially have taken it up

with Irish-language schools, their interest kindled and encouraged from a young age.

Heslin said there has been a noticeable increase in people coming to the center to take classes in Irish, something he believes has been boosted by recent Irish-language films crossing the Atlantic, and bankable Irish

stars such as Oscar-winning actor Cillian Murphy and twice-nominated actress Jessie Buckley. The diverse ZIP codes of Queens, Heslin said, make it perfect for the festival.

“I think it’s important that we celebrate all cultures and all languages,” he said. “Here in Queens and Beyond.”

The first film, from 7 to 9 p.m. on Friday is “An Cailín Ciúin,” or “The Quiet Girl,” the Oscar-nominated 2022 film about a withdrawn 9-year-old girl raised by neglectful parents who experiences love for the first time when she spends the summer on a farm of distant relatives.

Children’s Afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday shows two episodes of TG4’s Lí Ban, a cartoon series about a 12-year-old girl and her dog who transform into a mermaid and sea otter. That will be followed by “Song of the Sea,” an animated adventure feature from 2014.

Saturday night from 7 to 9 p.m. will show “Ag Taisteal Siar” or “Travelling Back”, a 2025 documentary of the Irish Traveller music community complete with interviews and performances by some of the genre’s top musicians.

That will be followed by “Ag Chathair Mhór,” or “The Big City,” by Bronx director Cian O’Connor, the story about a young man who moves from Ireland to New York City and rediscovers his love for the Gaeilge language while minding his grandaunt.

Synopses of the films are available at newyorkirishcentr.org. Individual day passes are $15 and festival passes are $40. They can be purchased on the website. The Irish Center is at 10-40 Jackson Ave. Q

Two timeless tales, but for a very limited time

continued from page 25

questions as “How do they move? Do they lead with their head or their stomach?” And, he added, “The costumes have a lot of influence” on how he plays each part.

Most enjoyable to him is the role of Peter Quince, the leader of a group of amateur actors in a play-within-the-play in “Midsummer,” describing him as “fun and whimsical.”

But, Frost admits, a cross-country tour

Crossword Answers

such as this “gets very tiring.” The performers spend much of the time on a tour bus as they travel from one city to the next, usually for one or two nights.

Still, Frost appreciates the opportunity “to get to see the country,” and he derives special fulfillment from “bringing theater to the rest of the country,” where live stage performances are not always readily available.

For The Acting Company, the stopover at Queens Theatre marks a homecoming, according to the venue’s general manager, Jay Rogers.

“In the early 2000s, The Acting Company would build out their productions on our stage in preparation for their national tours,” Rogers said.

“It’s always exciting to bring them home.”

In addition to the scheduled public performances, the theater has included two special matinees aimed exclusively at local schoolchildren.

“This will be the first time some of these kids will get to see a live stage

performance,” Rogers said.

The public performances at Queens Theatre, at 14 United Nations Ave. South in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, are as follows: “Midsummer” on Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m. and March 1 at 3 p.m.; and “Expectations” on Feb. 28 at 2 and 8 p.m.

Tickets for each show are either $35 or $45, depending on seat location; or $32 or $41 for seniors and students. For further information, call (718) 760-0686 or visit queenstheatre.org. Q

Performing above in The Acting Company’s rendering of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” are Madeleine Barker, left, Christian Frost, Michael Stewart Allen, Sam Im, Angie Janas and Pauli Pontrelli. At near right are Barker and Im in “Great Expectations” and at far right are Mallory Avnet, Barker, Shunté Lofton, George Anthony Richardson, Im and Frost in “Midsummer.” On the cover: Janas in “Expectations” and, with Allen, in “Midsummer.”

Oscar-nominated “The Quiet Girl” leads off Fís Nua/New Vision, an Irish-language film festival Feb. 19 to 21 at the New York Irish Center.

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SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NYCTL 19982 TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN, Plaintiff, vs. ELDER AVE REALTY CORP., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated December 15, 2025 and entered on December 17, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY on February 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., all that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 5137 and Lot 1162. Said premises may also be known as 138-35 Elder Avenue, Parking Garage Unit No. 162, Queens, NY. Approximate amount of judgment is $135,354.64 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index # 711997/2019. Nicole D. Katsorhis, Esq.,Referee The Law Office of Thomas P. Malone, PLLC,

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I, -againstCHARLES WALDEN AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ALBERTA NEWBOLD ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on December 4, 2025, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I. is the Plaintiff and CHARLES WALDEN AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ALBERTA NEWBOLD, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 03/06/2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 120-04 146TH ST., JAMAICA, New York 11436; and the following tax map identification, -12043-14.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 706825/2014.

Stephanie S. Goldstone, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing.

*LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS REGAIN CRF FUND 1 LLC, -against- PAMELA P. CARTER, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE CARTER, JR, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on November 19, 2025, wherein REGAIN CRF FUND 1 LLC is the Plaintiff and PAMELA P. CARTER, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE CARTER, JR, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 03/13/2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 115-92 230TH STREET, CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, New York 11411; and the following tax map identification, -11311-45. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 703101/2019. William T. Driscoll, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

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NOTICE

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SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, BLUE CASTLE (CAYMAN) LTD, Plaintiff, vs. VANESSA HOLMESBENJAMIN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 17, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on March 6, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 130-65 227th Street, Springfield Gardens, NY 11413. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Queens, County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 12905 and Lot 5. Approximate amount of judgment is $787,660.31 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 711867/2017. Sally Attia, Esq., Referee Vallely Mitola Ryan PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

CACFP BIDS REQUEST

Sealed bids will be received at the Heartshare Human Services of New York office at 330 Jay Street Brooklyn, NY 11201 until 12pm on 2/26/2026 for meals delivered to 1825 Bath Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11214, 8212 151st Ave, Howard Beach, NY 11414 and 115-15 101st Ave Richmond Hill, NY 11419. Specifications for breakfast, snack, and lunch may only be obtained by contacting Michelle Ullaguari at michelle.ullaguari@ heartshare.org. All work will be conducted in strict accordance with bid specifications. Bids will be opened at Heartshare Human Services of New York, 330 Jay Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201, and read on February 26, 2026, at 12:00 PM.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, -against- JEAN REED, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on November 24, 2025, wherein JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION is the Plaintiff and JEAN REED, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 03/06/2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 21012 94TH AVENUE, QUEENS VILLAGE, New York 11428; and the following tax map identification, -10544-50. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 704770/2023. Michael Dennis Benjamin, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Queens Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Drupatee Rampersad, Rick Rampersad, et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 17, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Queens County Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Second Floor Courtroom 25, Jamaica, NY 11435 on March 6, 2026 at 10:00 AM premises known as 104-12 121st Street, South Richmond Hill a/k/a Richmond Hill, NY 11419. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Queens, City and State of New York, BLOCK: 9574, LOT: 11. Approximate amount of judgment is $663,104.65 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 720229/2024. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Richard Gutierrez, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-100156-F00 88522

Notice of Formation of SAMMY COLLECTION LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/29/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: SAMAWIA HANSRAJ, 224-40 BRADDOCK AVE., QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11428 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SKF AKADEMI LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/02/2026. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 11-20 37th Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS, WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WACHOVIA MORTGAGE CORPORATION,against-MICHAEL C. BANKS A/K/A BANKS, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on May 14, 2025, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WACHOVIA MORTGAGE CORPORATION, is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL C. BANKS A/K/A BANKS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 03/13/2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 144-45 SPRINGFIELD BOULEVARD, JAMAICA, New York 114133453; and the following tax map identification, -1349022.ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT . PIECE PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVMENTS THEREON SITUATED LYING AND BEING IN THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 717410/2019. Lamont Ramsey Bailey, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENSU.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE IF THE LEHMAN BROTHERS SMALL BALANCE COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-2, -against- ERA INTERNATIONAL, LLC, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on December 4, 2025, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE IF THE LEHMAN BROTHERS SMALL BALANCE COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-2 is the Plaintiff and ERA INTERNATIONAL, LLC, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 8811 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 03/13/2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 6626 MYRTLE AVE, GLENDALE , New York 11385; and the following tax map identification, 4-03699-0034. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 700577/2021. Guy R. Vitacco Jr., Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION, Plaintiff against ABDOOL ZAHEER RAMJITT A/K/A ABDOOL Z. RAMJITT, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered December 16, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on February 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Premises known as 110-31 196th Street, Saint Albans, NY 11412. Block 10936 Lot 209. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $562,897.73 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 708334/2024. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th 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. For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome.com or call (844)400-9633. Frances Yetta Ruiz, Esq., Referee File # 23-13993NY

ST NURSE PRACTITIONER IN FAMILY HEALTH, PLLC, a Prof. LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/23/2026. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The PLLC, 80-46 Kew Gardens Rd, 3rd Fl, Kew Gardens, NY 11415. Purpose: To Practice The Profession Of Nurse Practitioner in Family Health.

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Legal Notices Legal Notices

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS. FORETHOUGHT LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, Plaintiff against ROQUE ESTATE DEVELOPMENT LLC, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated December 15, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, 88 11 Sutphin Blvd., in Courtroom # 25, Jamaica, NY on February 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, known and designated as Block 1396 Lot 5. Said premises known as 31-08 85TH STREET, QUEENS, NY 11370

Approximate amount of lien $733,788.47 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 705201/2024.

CAROLYN CLYNE, ESQ., Referee DRUCKMAN LAW GROUP PLLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590 DLG # 39539

Notice is hereby given that license# NA-0370-26-102128 for liquor has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor at retail in a tavern under the ABC law at 46-01 Kissena Blvd Fl 2 Flushing NY 11355, Queens County for on-premises consumption. DOLLAR JET NY 2025 INC. 46-01 Kissena Blvd., Fl 2, Flushing, NY 11355

Notice is hereby given that an On Premises Bar/Tavern Full Liquor License, Application ID NA-0370-25-139015 has been applied for by SSP America JFK T5 LLC serving beer, wine, cider, mead and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a Bar/Tavern for the premises located at JFK International Airport Terminal 5, #67IC, Queens NY 11430.

Notice of Formation of COLLIN’S WIRING AND HOME IMPROVEMENT LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/07/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: HUON RHODEN, 22919 MERRICK BLVD., #532, LAURELTON, NY 11413. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

WE DO MULTIMEDIA

LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/07/2026. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 65-24 162nd Street, Apt 6A, Flushing, NY 11365. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of GARDEN OF EDEN NYC LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/21/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: JACOB SMITH, 121-27 194ST, QUEENS, NY 11413. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of GLOBAL LINK CULTURAL PROGRAM LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/13/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ROSSANNA CAMURUNGAN, 7121 AUSTIN STREET, SUITE 202, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of GSLW PROPERTIES LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/21/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 5441 71ST ST, MASPETH, NY 11378. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS, Index No. 706091/2024, Date Filed: 01/21/2026, SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS, Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial based on the location of the mortgaged premises in this action. Plaintiff’s principal place of business is c/o Celink, 3900 Capital City Boulevard, Lansing, Michigan 48906. WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIET Y, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST 2019-HB1, Plaintiff, -against- MYRA MCCOY A/K/A MYRA MATEJA AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO MAMIE I. MCCOY; ANTOINE MCCOY III AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO MAMIE I. MCCOY; if living, and if dead, the respective heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignors, lienors, creditors 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 of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and their respective husbands, wives or widow, if any, and each and ever y person not specifically named who may be entitled to or claim to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the verified complaint; all of whom and whose names and places of residence unknown, and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained by the Plaintiff; VINCEN T MCCOY AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO MAMIE I. MCCOY if living, and if dead, the respective heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignors, lienors, creditors 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 of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and their respective husbands, wives or widow, if any, and each and ever y person not specifically named who may be entitled to or claim to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the verified complaint; all of whom and whose names and places of residence unknown, and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained by the Plaintiff, MAMIE MCCOY II AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO MAMIE I. MCCOY; CECELIA THAMES AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO MAMIE I. MCCOY; JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE 1 THROUGH 50, INTENDING TO BE THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DISTRIBUTEES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, TRUSTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF THE ESTATE OF MAMIE I. MCCOY, WHO WAS BORN IN 1927 AND DIED ON OCTOBER 14, 2023, A RESIDENT OF QUEENS COUNTY, WHOSE LAST KNOWN ADDRESS WAS 14405 HOLLY AVENUE, FLUSHING, NEW YORK 11355, THEIR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST IF ANY OF THE AFORESAID DEFENDANTS BE DECEASED, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE AFORESAID CLASSES OF PERSON, IF THEY OR ANY OF THEM BE DEAD, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MIDLAND FUNDING LLC; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; “JOHN DOE #1” to “JOHN DOE #10,” the last 10 names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the complaint, Defendants. 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 attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE: YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR FINANCE OF AMERICA STRUCTURED SECURITIES ACQUISITION TRUST 2019-HB1) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. This action was commenced to foreclose a mortgage against property located at 14405 Holly Avenue Flushing, New York 11355. McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC By: Caren Bailey, Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff One Huntington Quadrangle, Suite 4N25 Melville, NY 11747 631-812-4084 855-845-2584 facsimile File # 23-301829, HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non- profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or visit the Department`s website at www.dfs.ny.gov RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. You have the right to stay in your home during the foreclosure process. You are not required to leave your home unless and until your property is sold at auction pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale. Regardless of whether you choose to remain in your home, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE O F YOUR PROPERTY and pay property taxes in accordance with state and local law. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner`s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303 NOTICE 16-12-20*

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Notice of Formation of Miah Hosting Services LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/12/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: M M AREFIN HAQUE SHIRAZEE, 191-02 105TH AVE, SAINT ALBANS, NY 11412. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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