Queens Chronicle 05-07-26

Panel for Educational Policy hears nearly seven hours of feedback Teachers, students testify against AI

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The Panel for Educational Policy meeting on April 29 in Manhattan lasted nearly seven hours, with more than 100 people testifying, many against the use of artificial intelligence in schools a month after the city Department of Education released preliminary guidance on its use.

The city Department of Education is accepting public feedback on the guidance through Friday, May 8.

City Councilmember Phil Wong (D-Maspeth), a member of the Education Committee, just hours prior to the PEP meeting, called on Samuels to delay the release and implementation of the AI playbook, citing concerns over limited public input and the potential impact on students’ learning and development.

“There’s no question AI is going to be part of our future, and our students should understand it if we want them to comp ete,” Wong wrote. “But right now, we’re moving too fast without enough real input from parents and educators. ... A short survey isn’t enough.”

The panel last Wednesday was originally set to vote on a controversial plan to open the AI-focused Next Generation Technology High School in Manhattan, but the item, along with proposals to overhaul three middle schools in the Upper West Side, was pulled off the agenda a few days before the meeting.

Though plenty of testimony focused on the Manhattan middle schools, a number of the PEP meeting attendees — including many students — made their voices heard on the usage of AI.

For nearly seven hours last week, the Panel for Educational Policy heard testimony, plenty of which focused on AI in schools, including that of Sheryka Lucien.

“It is unrealistic to put out a stack of papers guiding people on what to do with something that is at the tip of their fingers, utilized constantly,” Lucian said. “Unchecked AI use is undermining my learning, as well as my peers’.”

Lucien said she finds herself asking questions in class only to be told by her teachers to “just ask ChatGPT.”

“Educators are so comfortable creating exams and lesson plans using artificial intelligence, unaware of the large margin for error and how hypocritical it is to give students zeros for using it,” Lucien said.

Another speaker, Matthew Dunn, called for a moratorium on AI in schools altogether.

He said spending on AI tools “endangers the fiscal autonomy of the school system,” and that a moratorium would allow time for further research to be done on whether it provides benefits to students.

Multiple teachers from throughout the boroughs spoke on how budget funding was being allocated for education technology and virtual instruction, but that it should be allocated elsewhere in the system, such as supporting environmental policies or immigrant students.

“We were even asked by the DOE to have an AI in Education Week, where we taught kids how to incorporate AI into their learning, which is frightening because we’ve heard about the impact that has on the brain,” one teacher said.

Sheryka Lucien, a high school senior and the chair of the New York Civil Liberties Teen Activist Project, told the panel that the artificial intelligence guidance released by the agency last month was of concern.

“The decision reflects one of the core values of my leadership: engagement,” Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels told the crowded room last Wednesday evening of the revised agenda, adding that more time is needed to discuss and deliberate.

Another student, high school sophomore Ariana Ahmed Misha, said she has seen her peers use AI to prepare speeches, even during cross-fire in live debates.

“This not only made me sad as a debater, but sad as a global citizen, as AI systems require massive amounts of energy every single day,” Ahmed Misha said. Q

CONZA | MCNAMARA

PEP SCREENSHOT VIA LEARNDOE.ORG

People displaced due to explosion

Vacate order issued for S. Ozone Park home and two others; body recovered

by Naeisha Rose Editor

As of Wednesday the American Red Cross said that 25 people from seven households remain displaced after a knife-wielding man not only caused his own home to explode with an unknown substance in South Ozone Park, but also caused damage to several others nearby during a domestic dispute on April 30.

“Our casework team is currently meeting with them and talking to them about what their remaining roadblocks are and connecting them with longer term resources,” an American Red Cross spokesman told the Chronicle.

Any additional residents impacted by the blaze may call 1 (877) RED CROSS (733-2767) and select Option 1.

A body was recovered before 2 p.m. from the house at which an explosion sent officers flying off their feet shortly before 3 a.m. Anroop Parasaram, 50, broke into the home at 107-55 130 St., which was occupied by his wife, daughter and two grandchildren.

After the two-and-a-half-story two-family dwelling was destroyed in a five-alarm fire, the city Department of Buildings sent inspectors there and said via email that not only did the structure collapse but the blaze spread to 107-53 and 107-59, which are also two-and-ahalf-story family houses. Vacate orders were issued for all three properties. DOB forensic engineers also issued an immediate emergency declaration for demolition at 107-55, which will be performed by city contractors and managed by the city Housing Preservation & Development agency.

The office of Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven), which is one district

A five-alarm fire in South Ozone Park led to at least 16 people being

Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, commanding officer of

over, sent the Chronicle a link to a New York Post article, which reported that the body recovered was of that of Parasaram.

The Post reported that Parasaram used an unknown accelerant to light himself and the place on fire.

As of Wednesday, a spokeswoman for the NYPD could not confirm an ID for the body.

NYPD Assistant Chief Christopher McIntosh, commanding officer of Queens South, said during a press conference on April 30 that surveillance footage captured Parasaram breaking into the home while carrying two garbage bags that had canisters with an unknown

substance.

Parasaram allegedly broke into the home by forcefully moving the air conditioning unit, said McIntosh. His daughter and grandchildren were able to escape, but the suspect allegedly threatened his wife with a knife. She, too, eventually escaped and gave her keys to officers.

“At approximately 2:42 a.m. the office of the 106 Precinct responded to a 911 call about a domestic dispute with a knife,” said McIntosh. “The call was placed by a family member of the victim, who stated that her male relative arrived at their residence intoxicated ... and there was a smell of gas.”

As the cops approached the home, an explosion occurred, injuring the responding officers who still got up and tried to apprehend the suspect, but the building collapsed before he could be arrested.

An FDNY spokesperson said 84 units comprising 270 fire and emergency personnel were at the scene.

FDNY Fire Chief John Esposito said, “Due to the amount of fire we were not able to enter the ... building or conduct any searches.”

The FDNY spokesman said seven officers, one firefighter and four civilians had minor injuries. Q

Delivery driver charged in Woodhaven rampage

Man allegedly rammed van into other car, brutally attacked multiple

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

A delivery driver wearing an Amazon vest and driving a van filled with packages was charged April 29 for an alleged violent rampage in Woodhaven.

According to the Queens District Attorney’s Office, Dauri Batita, 32, of Brooklyn, who also goes by the last name Batista, approached a 2015 Nissan at the intersection of Park Lane South and Forest Parkway outside Forest Park in Woodhaven on April 26 at approximately 4:08 p.m.

As the 61-year-old driver and her three passengers looked on, Batita, wearing a blue delivery vest, allegedly hit the vehicle’s windshield with an unknown object and cracked the glass.

The four women in the car waited near the intersection of Forest Parkway and 85th Avenue for police to arrive, the charges said.

Batita then allegedly entered a 2024 white Ram van and drove head on into the Nissan. He then he backed up and did it again.

When he allegedly backed up a third time, the Nissan drove off. The defendant followed the Nissan at a high speed, the DA’s Office said, and three of the women in the car experienced substantial neck, back and knee pain.

Shortly thereafter, Batita was driving near the intersection of 87th Street and 85th Road in Woodhaven, the DA’s Office said, and was going the wrong way on a one-way street.

The defendant exited the Ram, approached a 66-year-old man and allegedly punched him several times, loosening his teeth and causing bleeding and pain. The victim was taken to a hospital for treatment.

At the same intersection, Batita allegedly attacked another victim, a 33-year-old man whom he approached and punched in the face

several times while he pulled at his necklace.

The charges said Batita then attacked a 72-year-old male bystander, allegedly punching him in the head, causing the victim to fall to the ground and sustain abrasions to his arm.

The defendant then got back in the Ram and drove the wrong way on a one-way street and into the front end of a 2023 Nissan, the DA’s Office said.

Batita then allegedly opened the front passenger door and assaulted the 75-year-old driver, punching him in the face and threatening to steal his car.

The victim’s son stopped the assault and held Batita at the location until police arrived. The driver was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Batita was arraigned on a criminal complaint charging him with three counts of second-degree attempted robbery, nine counts of

people

second-degree assault, first-degree reckless endangerment, three counts of second-degree attempted assault, third-degree criminal mischief, four counts of second-degree menacing, leaving the scene of an incident without reporting personal injury and leaving the scene of an incident without reporting property damage.

According to a report by Gothamist, Batita was a driver for a third-party delivery service and has since been fired.

He was remanded and ordered to return to court on May 19. He faces up to seven years in prison if convicted.

In a statement, Queens DA Melinda Katz said, “This defendant’s actions turned a peaceful neighborhood near Forest Park into a crime scene that spanned multiple city blocks. I thank our NYPD partners for quickly apprehending the defendant before he could cause more harm.” Q

displaced from their homes, said FDNY Chief John Esposito, far right. NYPD

Queens South, said a domestic dispute led to the explosion. FDNY PHOTOS VIA X

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Fewest murders in recorded history for the first four months of the year City sees 9.5 percent drop in major crime

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The city saw the fewest murders in recorded history for both the first four months of the year and the month of April alone, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced Tuesday, though some Queens precincts saw increases in overall crime.

During the four-month stretch, there were 76 murders in the city, surpassing the previous record low of 86 set in 2018. April saw the fewest murders in recorded city history with 19, beating the previous record of 21 set in 2014 and 2017.

department has seized 1,600 guns, it said.

Murders fell by a staggering 40.6 percent (19 vs. 32) citywide last month, marking the fewest murders for any April on record, the NYPD said.

“The crime reductions ... are a direct result of our precisionpolicing strategy.”

—

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch

Shooting incidents and shooting victims are down compared to last April, with 18.6 (57 vs. 70) and 19.3 (67 vs. 83) percent declines, respectively.

Major crime fell 9.5 percent citywide, per the NYPD, with 957 fewer reported incidents compared to last April.

The NYPD also cited “historic reductions” in public housing crime: Overall crime in there is down 8.7 percent, 1,721 vs. 1,886.

So far this year, NYPD detectives have carried out 10 gang-related takedowns, and the

“Once again, the crime reductions across the five boroughs are a direct result of our precision-policing strategy: focusing on illegal guns, putting officers where they’re needed most, and taking down violent gangs,” Tisch said in a statement. “These results are made possible by the women and men of the NYPD carrying out that work with focus and discipline. That approach is producing real, measurable crime reductions across the city, and it will continue to guide our work in the months ahead.”

Patrol Borough Queens North, which encompasses the 104th, 108th, 109th, 110th, 111th, 112th, 114th and 115th precincts, saw an overall 2.9 percent decrease in crime this year to date, according to CompStat data through April 26.

The biggest uptick was in grand larceny auto, with 764 so far this year compared to 628 at this time last year, an increase of 21.7

cent), grand larceny (5.3 percent) and grand larceny auto (104.3 percent).

The 115, however, saw the largest decrease in overall crime in Queens North, at 17.2 percent.

Patrol Borough Queens South, which encompasses the 100th, 101st, 102nd, 103rd, 105th, 106th, 107th, 113th and 116th precincts had a 3.4 percent uptick in overall crime this year to date.

The largest increase was in rape, with 78 this year to date compared to 55 at this time last year, a 41.8 percent increase, followed by an 18.4 percent increase in grand larceny, with 1,122 so far this year and 948 at this time in 2025.

The 113 saw the biggest increase in total crime at 32.1 percent, and is up in almost all of the major crime categories except grand larceny auto, where it is down 1.8 percent.

PHOTO BY GERARDO ROMO / NYC COUNCIL

Overall major crime in New York City is down 9.5 percent this year to date, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced May 5, with the fewest murders in recorded history for both the first four months of the year and in April alone.

percent.

The only precincts within the northern patrol borough to see increases in overall crime are the 104, 108 and 111.

Of those commands, the 108 had the biggest jump in total major crime at 9.8 percent, with upticks in rape (60 percent), robbery (9.1 per-

The command saw two more murders so far this year than it did at this time last year, a 200 percent increase, and a 150 percent increase in rape, with 10 this year and four last year. Incidents of grand larceny and robbery raised 62.9 percent and 70.4 percent, respectively.

The largest decrease in crime in Queens South came within the 116th Precinct, which saw a 17.4 percent total drop this year to date. All figures are preliminary and subject to further revision, the NYPD said. Q

Republicans eye separate spending measure, as 76-day shutdown ends Bill funding DHS but not ICE and CBP passes

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The House of Representatives on April 30 passed a measure to fund the Department of Homeland Security, which President Trump signed to end the record 76-day partial government shutdown.

Most of the DHS had been shut down since February, after congressional Democrats refused to approve more funding for immigration enforcement agencies absent “guardrails” to rein them in. The refusal followed the shootings of two American citizens by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, as they tried to thwart ICE operations in Minneapolis.

The enacted measure, which had passed in the Senate long before the House approved it by a voice vote, funds most DHS agencies through Sept. 30. That includes the Transportation Security Administration, Coast Guard, Secret Service and Federal Emergency Management Agency, but not ICE or Customs and Border Patrol, which already were separately funded.

The vote came after the Office of

Management and Budget warned lawmakers that the DHS would run out of money to pay its workers starting in May, according to several published news reports. The House had been on the verge of recess when it passed the spending bill.

No additional regulations have yet been placed on ICE.

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) said in a statement that while she is glad the shutdown is over, the “reckless delay” never should have happened.

“For 76 days, Republicans held funding for TSA, FEMA, the Coast Guard, Secret Service, and cybersecurity hostage to demand more money for ICE,” Meng said. “Federal workers went without pay, families struggled, and our airports descended into chaos. Democrats pushed from day one to fund DHS without writing a blank check to ICE.”

U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica) also blamed House Republicans for the shutdown, saying they “chose to drag TSA, FEMA and the Coast Guard” through it when his chamber could have voted on the Senate bill more than a month ago. The House previously had passed a bill funding all the agencies.

“They caved after several weeks of party infighting and dysfunction while Democrats stayed true to Americans’ demand for justice and transparency,” Meeks said in a statement. “We will continue to fight every day in Congress to hold ICE accountable and lower the cost of living because we know Americans deserve better.”

Immigration enforcement opera-

tions were unaffected by the lapse in funding — ICE had already received $75 billion through 2029 in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which passed last summer. Still, House Republicans would not vote on the new DHS spending bill that excluded ICE and CBP until the stage was set to fund them separately.

On Monday, Senate Republicans announced a spending bill that in part carves out more than $70 billion for ICE and CBP through the end of Trump’s term. It also provides money for the replacement of the White House’s East Wing, which Trump tore down.

The bill began the budget reconciliation process, which lets the Senate’s dominant party speed the passage of certain spending measures by requiring just a majority vote, rather than the 60 approvals typically needed to bypass a filibuster.

“Republicans looked at families drowning in bills and decided what they really needed was more raids and a Trump ballroom,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) said on X. Q

President Trump last week signed a bill funding most of the DHS, but not immigration enforcement. Senate Republicans are now looking to expedite the passage of a separate measure that includes money for ICE and CBP. FILE PHOTO

City ‘steps up’ as vaccine policies come under fire

Feds push to change longtime advice; Council OKs anti-misinformation bills

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The City Council last week took steps to combat what it called medical misinformation, as federal health officials push to change longstanding guidance about vaccines.

The Trump administration on April 29 appealed a March court order that paused the scaled-back childhood vaccine recommendations that Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced earlier this year. He had slashed the number of broadly advised shots from 17 to just 11, encouraging only high-risk groups to get vaccinated for RSV, hepatitis A and B and some forms of meningitis. Decisions on whether to get shots for the flu, rotavirus and Covid-19 were to be “based on shared clinical decision making.”

The day after federal officials filed the appeal, city lawmakers passed a legislative package that Speaker Julie Menin (D-Manhattan) said represents New York stepping up “when Washington steps back.”

A Council press release ascribes the recent reemergence of preventable diseases to “the continued spread of misinformation” about vaccines — there were 1,800 confirmed cases of measles across 37 states as of midApril, and fewer kindergarteners across the country had gotten all their shots in the 202425 school year than the one prior.

“The federal government is dismantling our health care, from making it expensive to see your doctors, gutting public health institutions, and spreading misinformation on vaccines,” Councilman Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) said in the release.

Intro. 260A, Krishnan’s bill that passed 44-6, would require the city Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and Department of Education to create informational materials about how vaccines work, their public health benefits, their safety and where to access the shots required for school attendance. The DOE would then have to distribute the resources to all public school parents, including those of children in 3K and pre-K.

Another bill — Intro. 693A, sponsored by Councilman Eric Dinowitz (D-Bronx) — would give the DOHMH until Jan. 1, 2027 to develop and implement a plan to educate the public about the benefits and importance of childhood and adolescent vaccines, based on recommendations from major medical

groups including the American Academy of Pediatrics. It passed 43-7.

Even before Kennedy’s order rolling back vaccine recommendations was blocked in court, the American Academy of Pediatrics had declined to change its own guidelines, as had Northwell Health, NYC Health + Hospitals and the state Health Department.

“The science on vaccines is settled. They are safe, effective, and save lives,” Dinowitz said. “At a time when the federal government is sowing doubt in that settled science and making our communities less healthy, we will not sit idly by.”

Both measures await Mayor Mamdani’s signature.

Resolutions by Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills), who chairs the Committee on Health, also were adopted at last week’s stated meeting. Resolution 273A calls on state lawmakers to authorize dentists to give vaccines for flu, Covid-19, human papillomavirus and other diseases related to a public health emergency, and Resolution 425 urges Albany to require vaccines to be regulated, recommended, administered and insured based on advice from “various nationally- and internationally-recognized healthcare organizations.”

Another resolution of hers, which was preconsidered, asks that the state require insurance companies to reimburse all practice expenses associated with vaccines.

“The federal government has made clear it will not protect our children from preventable diseases — so New York State must,” Schulman said. Q

Several health-related bills, including one by Councilman Shekar Krishnan that seeks to give public school parents accurate vaccine information, passed last week.

PHOTO BY JOHN MCCARTEN / NYC COUNCIL / FLICKR

Witnesses present did not testify, after judge cited procedural errors Fraud case against Rajkumar dropped

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The lawsuit accusing Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) of petition fraud was dismissed for procedural reasons April 30.

Filed on April 16 by her opponent, democratic socialist David Orkin, the suit in Queens State Supreme Court sought to knock Rajkumar off the June primary ballot, alleging that her petitions contained forged signatures.

But the substance of the case was not discussed in court. Judge Denise Johnson said Orkin’s attorney made procedural errors in trying to subpoena the petitioners, as reported by Gothamist and the Queens Daily Eagle. Some residents who claimed their signatures had been forged were in court April 30, but did not get to testify, nor did Rajkumar’s canvassers.

More than a dozen residents filed legal declarations swearing they did not sign her documents, even though their names and addresses appear in them. Among them was Queens Chronicle Editor Kristen Guglielmo.

The lawsuit also questioned the credibility of multiple Rajkumar campaign workers who claimed to witness the allegedly fraudulent signatures — it says they secured about 70 percent of her signatures. Speaking to the Chronicle April 28, an Orkin spokesperson placed that figure at 85 percent.

An Orkin spokesperson said Wednesday that the campaign is filing an appeal.

Rajkumar, who represents Ridgewood, Glendale, Woodhaven, Ozone Park and Richmond Hill, had submitted more than 2,500 signatures, far more than the 500 needed to get on the June primary ballot.

More than 1,000 were invalidated on standard election-law grounds, leaving her with around 1,500.

On social media, Rajkumar said she is “so proud” of her “young team, who stood strong, upheld the truth, and refused to be intimidated.”

“Petition irregularities can be manufactured, exploited, or misun-

The lawsuit accusing Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar of having fraudulent signatures in her petitions was dismissed April 30 on account of procedural errors.

derstood,” Rajkumar campaign spokesperson Arvind Sooknanan said in an emailed statement. “The appearance of a reporter’s name on a petition does not prove who wrote it or that our campaign did anything wrong.

“In petitioning, bad actors from

opposing teams can even try to create confusion by writing names or signatures that do not belong on a sheet.” Allegations of 15 forged signatures “cannot erase the will of thousands of Queens voters,” Sooknanan said.

“This was an ugly attempt by the

Democratic Socialists of America to disenfranchise Queens voters, especially minority voters, and to bully a team of young South Asian and minority canvassers who represent the future of our state,” Rajkumar said in her post. “They failed.”

In his own post after the ruling, Orkin said that what happened in court was “the Democratic machine squeezing out a grassroots campaign.”

“This ruling does not change what our campaign brought to light: our Assemblymember’s campaign forged our neighbors’ signatures and violated the public trust necessary for a fair election,” he said in a May 1 press release. “It is telling that Jenifer Rajkumar fought harder to hide behind a technicality than to defend the integrity of her own campaign’s petitions.”

Also quoted in the release are two residents who said they felt betrayed and taken advantage of to see their names appear in petitions they never signed.

“This week, democracy won,” Sooknanan said. “On June 23rd, the people will win again.” Q

STEAKS & CHOPS

PHOTO BY BENNY POLATSECK / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE / FLICKR

EDITORIAL AGEP

The heart of Jewry attacked

The intersection of 108th Street and 67th Road in Forest Hills is called Holocaust Memorial Corners. It was so named in 1999, in memory of those lost to the horrors of Nazi Germany and its collaborators. Many who survived came to this part of Queens after the war.

On one corner sits Commonpoint Queens, formerly the Central Queens YM & YWHA, as in Young Men’s and Young Women’s Hebrew Association. On another sits Congregation Machane Chodosh, “The Synagogue with ♥ in the ♥ of Forest Hills,” as the banner says.

The area is proudly Jewish. It has been largely Jewish for a long time. It will be largely Jewish going forward. One might easily say Forest Hills and its neighbors Rego Park and Kew Gardens Hills constitute the heart of Jewry in Queens.

And now the people there, as well as Jews elsewhere in the borough and city, are living under growing threats and actual violence. In the early hours of Monday morning, four losers spray painted swastikas, the name Hitler and other marks at

five sites in Forest Hills and Rego Park. This is not just vandalism. These are threats, especially in today’s environment, with antisemitism and attacks on Jews on the rise, including in Central Queens. One swastika, in a bloodcurdling act of evil, was painted partially on a plaque memorializing victims of Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass, the 1938 pogrom in Germany seen as the beginning of the Holocaust. The plaque is on the wall of Congregation Machane Chodosh. The synagogue’s name means “New Camp” in Hebrew and signifies the refuge to which people fled from the atrocities of Europe. Now that refuge has been assailed, by forces that have adopted the beliefs and symbols of the Nazis in service of their own ends.

No politicians’ press conference will end the hatred taught to the perpetrators and those who cheer them on. Education helps, but that is a long, slow process. Hatred of Jews has waxed and waned for millennia. Today, it is waxing. We hope a change of heart, a shift against antisemitism, will arrive soon. Meantime, we stand strong together.

Bills to fight street mayhem

This page opposes the War on Cars. It fully favors any war on those miscreants who do insane things with their cars.

So we are glad to support a bill by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. of Woodhaven to increase penalties for participating in illegal street takeovers, and another by City Councilwoman Sandra Ung of Flushing to ban those absurd monster speakers attached to the outside of people’s cars.

Addabbo’s bill is named for Suffolk County Police Officer Brendon Gallagher, who was nearly killed by a drunk and stoned driver trying to avoid being pulled over on the Long Island Expressway. Gallagher was part of a street takeover task force. The measure

would authorize more car seizures, classify damaging emergency vehicles as criminal mischief and ban even spectators from attending street takeovers. It needs support in the Legislature.

Ung’s bill, co-sponsored by Councilman Phil Wong of Maspeth, would impose fines for having “audio output devices” on car exteriors and authorize impounding vehicles for a second offense, holding them until fines are paid. Today’s street takeovers are not your grandparents’ drag races. They feature music you can hear a mile away, fire, property destruction and violence. The kids are not all right. Passing these bills would give law enforcement more tools to keep life good here for decent folk.

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Dear Editor:

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

FMCP neglected

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the fourth-largest park in New York City — 33 acres larger than Central Park. It has hosted two World’s Fairs, and was once home of the United Nations, from 1946 to 1950. The park has a fascinating history and has served as a place of relaxation and recreation for thousands of Queens’ residents. This park is important to our families and the rest of our community. It is not just a place to grow trees and grass!

Very little is being done for its landscaping, roadways need to be resurfaced; fountains need to be repaired. Vandalism in the park is not being repaired properly — if at all. The Column of Jerash, a gift from the Kingdom of Jordan prior to the start of the 1964-65 World’s Fair, is the second-oldest structure in New York City, dating from 120 AD. Only Cleopatra’s Needle in Central Park is older that the Column of Jerash. The top of the column was broken off by vandals several years ago. The pieces of the column were recovered, but it has not been repaired. Now, only the lower part of the column remains.

The showpiece of the park, the Unisphere, has fountains that have been out of order for three years. A pair of worn-out canvas shoes has hung from one of its rings since September 2025.

The park is primarily used by Asians and mid-to low income Latinos from the surrounding neighborhoods. I certainly hope discrimina-

tion is not a factor!

The park is surviving on empty promises from our local elected officials, who promise that it will be a “priority” (whatever that is) during their elected terms. These “promises” are bearing no visible results. In the meantime, Prospect Park, Central Park, Bryant Park and other NYC parks are showing very little, if any, signs of neglect. When will this change?

Michael Anderson Corona

The writer is a licensed New York City tour guide and a volunteer with the Flushing Meadows Corona Park Alliance.

Aviation’s future is here

Dear Editor:

On Monday, April 27, 2026, New Yorkers experienced an historic day for aviation with a first ever test flight of the Joby e-VTOL from JFK to E34 Street heliport in Manhattan (“Meet

George Jetson: Air taxi takes flight,” April 30, multiple editions). The momentous occasion did not disappoint. It is not only thrilling but marks the beginning of a new era of cleaner and significantly quieter aviation.

The e-VTOL test flight was escorted by a traditional very noisy helicopter, which made it impossible to listen exclusively to the JOBY vehicle. However, the representative from Joby said the vehicle was 100 times quieter than a helicopter and this was confirmed by the FAA. Once in the air, the representative called the sound, if you can hear it at all, “like the sound of leaves in the wind.” The e-VTOL — standing for electric vertical takeoff and landing — is undergoing final certification by the FAA.

For these and other reasons, it is my opinion that e-VTOL aircraft will be beneficial to communities currently experiencing the horrible and unhealthy noise of traditional helicopters. However, what we must continue to keep in mind is the potential overcrowding of the

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

nation’s skies with not only commercial and general aviation airport operations, but also advanced air mobility and delivery drones. The FAA is tasked with the safe integration of these vehicles in the airspace, but municipalities can get ahead with sensible zoning regulations and vertiport locations.

Concerning noise and air quality, the Joby e-VTOL promises to be a significant improvement to communities impacted by helicopter traffic and excessive noise. For aviation tech nerds, it was a goose-bump moment. Joby’s repeated mentions of safety and quietness were something aviation-impacted communities have been longing to hear for many years. Last week’s test flight restored respect to people on the ground.

Maria Becce Flushing

Church fire likely set

Dear Editor:

I read with great interest your article about the destruction by fire of the First Reformed Church of Astoria, a truly historic entity of hundreds of years standing (“Fire ravages historic church in Astoria,” April 30, Western Queens edition). As a youth, I attended services there on a number of occasions.

This was almost certainly a deliberate arson, and investigators must leave no stone unturned to determine the perpetrator.

Clifton Wellman Elmhurst

Bills would free killers

Dear Editor:

Two bills now pending in New York State’s Legislature would enable the release of vicious killers, including one who slaughtered five people at a Flushing fast food restaurant. A Queens legislator sponsored one of those bills. These facts were revealed by the New York Post in a report headlined “The Walking Dread” (May 3).

One measure, titled the Fair and Timely Parole bill, would require the state parole board to release convicts regardless of the severity of their crimes, unless they are a “current danger” to the public. Queens Assemblyman David Weprin co-sponsored the bill. How does he justify supporting this misguided measure?

Another measure, the Elder Parole bill, would let violent criminals dodge their full minimum sentences, now matter how heinous their crimes, and get early parole hearings after turning 55 and serving 15 years.

Violent criminals who would gain freedom under these bills include John Taylor, 62, who murdered five people at a Queens Wendy’s restaurant; Colin Ferguson, 68, who slaughtered six people and wounded 16 in the Long Island Rail Road shooting massacre; and “Son of Sam” killer David Berkowitz, 72, who murdered six people. Their fate would be decided by a lenient parole board that has released 43 convicted cop killers since 2017, noted the Post. For these bills to become law, the Assembly and Senate must vote for them and Gov. Hochul must sign them. Any lawmaker who supports them should be voted out of office in this year’s elections. So should Gov. Hochul if she fails to veto them. Both bills result from the woke fan-

tasy of “Restorative Justice,” which would restore freedom to dangerous felons who must remain locked up for the rest of their lives.

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

Congrats to the Chronicle

Dear Editor:

Every weekend I look forward to reading the Queens Chronicle. I live in Southeast Queens and the Chronicle informs me of what’s going on in the neighborhood with crime, the community and politics. The reporting and stories are covered in depth and clarity. Many times I get a good education, with information I didn’t even know existed. I also like qboro, the arts, culture and living section.

May I also add that I have written Letters to the Editor, and many times my opinions were published? The Chronicle provides an outlet so people like me can have our voices heard. I appreciate that opportunity very much.

The group shot of all the reporters at the Queens Chronicle was very interesting (“Chronicle ‘an excellent mirror of Queens,’ April 30). I noticed that not one member looked into the camera. I guess they prefer being behind the camera covering the stories, instead.

Thanks again for your energy, dedication and truthfulness in covering the news in Queens.

Antoni Capozello Laurelton

Sing along to ‘Met Song’

Dear Editor:

(To the tune of “Jet Song” from “West Side Story”)

When you’re a Met, you’re a Met all the way

From your first dropped fly ball to your last double play.

When you’re a Met, you leave runners on base, You strike out in the clutch. You belong in last place.

The Mets do not fear — they make the games exciting

Our frustration is clear. The problem’s not with steroids. It’s outfield lighting.

Here come the Mets that we’ve learned to applaud

From our first heart attack to our last vocal chord.

Here come the Mets in a league of their own, Bring back Seaver and Ryan, Dave Kingman, and Cone.

The Mets are my team and though I love the Yankees,

I’ve learned how to scream and wash away the teardrops with lots of hankies.

Here come the Mets, in their home Citi Field, There’s still time in the season. It is not time to yield.

Here come the Mets! There’s no reason to grieve,

If you give your support, then you gotta believe.

Just like the Mets, in their old home at Shea, We will have no regrets if they win one today.

When you’re a Met, you stay a Met!

Mark Lane Douglaston

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Bill banning exterior auto-mounted speakers aimed at street takeovers There’s a method to their loud music ban

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Stop the music.

That’s what two Queens City Councilmembers hope will go a long way toward curbing loud and dangerous street takeovers that have been making recent headlines in Queens and elsewhere.

Intro. 848, sponsored by Councilwoman Sandra Ung (D-Flushing), would prohibit the affixing speakers or “audio output devices” to the exterior of a vehicle.

It would impose fines of $100 to $225 for a first offense, $150 to $400 for a second summons; and $200 to $525 for a third or subsequent offense.

It also would mandate that the NYPD impound a vehicle beginning with a second offense, and hold it until all fines are paid.

Councilman Phil Wong (D-Maspeth) is a co-sponsor, as are members Lincoln Restler (D-Brooklyn) and Frank Morano (R-Staten Island) as of the Chronicle’s deadline.

Ung, in a press release last Thursday, said the bill is aimed at late-night car meetups, which she said have been inundating her district in locations such as Flushing Meadows Corona Park and the World’s Fair Marina, creating serious quality-of-life issues for residents, particularly during the warmer months of the year.

“Far too many of my constituents are being kept up at night by these gatherings, where vehicles are intentionally modified to project music at extreme volumes,” Ung said. “This is not about people enjoying music. It’s about excessive, unreasonable noise that disrupts entire communities and deprives residents of peace in their own homes.”

The legislation would also impose higher fines for creating unreasonable noise from a personal audio device, either on or inside a vehicle.

“There is no legitimate reason to mount speakers on the outside of a vehicle other than to blast music in public spaces,” Ung said. “This bill not only strengthens penalties, but also puts in place straightforward, common-sense restrictions to prevent this behavior before it starts. New Yorkers deserve to feel comfortable in their own homes, and this legislation is about restoring that basic quality of life.”

A meetup in the Malba section of Whitestone last November resulted in two injuries when residents allegedly were attacked when confronting a group of drivers and spectators at the intersection where South Drive, 141st Street, Center Drive, Boulevard and Point Crescent all converge.

the commotion.

A car also was set ablaze during

quiet at night and on weekends,” the councilman explained. “So they congregate there, coast down the streets and throw a wild party.”

Make Summer Count at Queens

Middle Village, in Wong’s district, saw a large gathering in the early-morning hours of April 18 that allegedly included drag racing near Eliot Avenue and 69th Street, drivers spinning donuts, a fire and the vandalizing of an NYPD vehicle in which police officers were responding.

Wong noted that the April incident included drivers spinning donuts while driving around a ring of fire in a residential neighborhood — between two gas stations. He also said the street takeovers are a money-making enterprise.

Wong said the bill is one originally submitted by his predecessor, former Councilman Bob Holden.

“We have too many people who love to drive into our neighborhood blasting their music,” Wong told the Chronicle in a phone interview last Friday.

“Two weeks go we had this car meetup where drivers had cars with a whole array of speakers tied to the roof,” he said. “They blast music while cars are making donuts and disturb the whole neighborhood.”

Wong said the incidents have increased in both number and severity in recent years.

“I have a large industrial area that is very

“They sell narcotics,” Wong said. “They sell liquor. They take bets on how fast these cars can go, how many donuts a car will make. It’s a money-making business.

“And they get reckless. They come with fake plates and fake registrations so they can’t be identified. A lot of them are souped-up cars so they can outrun police.”

Wong said last Friday that backers of the bill are unsure just how much support they have; and that they will begin the process of reaching out for additional co-sponsors after it is formally introduced.

“It’s a work in progress,” he said. Q

CIty Council sponsors say a bill to ban large, car-mounted speakers and penalize unreasonable noise is aimed directly at nighttime street takeovers, like this one in the Malba section of Whitestone last November. SCREENSHOT VIA FREEDOM NEWS TV VIDEO\ / FILE

Addabbo bills aim to bolster public safety

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) on Monday announced he has introduced two bills in response to community safety concerns after an illegal street takeover on the Middle Village-Maspeth border last month.

The first bill, S10059A, called “Brendon’s law,” seeks to significantly increase penalties for illegal street takeovers, sideshows and dangerous motor vehicle speed contests. It would prohibit participation, including spectators within 200 feet.

The legislation would also authorize seizure and forfeiture and classify damaging an authorized emergency vehicle as constituting the crime of criminal mischief in the third degree.

The bill does not yet have an Assembly counterpart, per the state Senate’s website.

The second bill, S10104, would allow judges greater discretion to set bail for additional felony and misdemeanor offenses involving physical harm or conduct that creates an unacceptable risk to public safety.

Under current law, those offenses are not bail-eligible, Addabbo’s office said,

even when the circumstances demonstrate a clear danger to others.

Under S10104, the Office of Court Administration would be required to establish a statewide electronic tracking system for bail decisions and submit annual reports to the Legislature.

The bill’s Assembly counterpart is sponsored by Assemblymember Simcha Eichenstein (D-Brooklyn).

Illegal street takeovers have become increasingly common, Addabbo’s office said. They often draw large crowds, block intersections, damage property and put innocent motorists, pedestrians and first responders in serious danger.

“When individuals are apprehended after participating in dangerous street takeovers that place families, pedestrians and first responders at risk, only to be released without bail, it sends the wrong message to our communities and to those who engage in this reckless behavior,” Addabbo said. “Communities deserve better, which is why individuals who turn our streets into chaos must face appropriate consequences, and judges must have the ability to protect the public.” Q

Second arrest for car meet at 69th and Eliot

by Stephanie G. Meditz

Editor

Police made a second arrest last Friday in connection to the fiery street takeover April 18 at Eliot Avenue and 69th Street, on the Middle Village-Maspeth border.

Winston Pat, 20, of 77th Avenue in Oakland Gardens, was arrested May 1 for unlawful assembly, reckless driving and two counts each of reckless endangerment, riot and criminal mischief, per the NYPD. The Queens District Attorney’s Office said Pat was arraigned that same day and is set to return to court May 14.

Winston Pat allegedly drove donuts in this car.

SCREENSHOT VIA @NYPDNEWS VIDEO / X

The NYPD’s official X account on May 1 posted a video of a driver doing donuts in a white BMW sedan at the intersection, saying the clip depicted Pat “endangering the lives of New Yorkers.”

“We will continue to take down these car meetups and crack down on those creating this chaos,” the post reads.

Pat was arrested just over a week after

NO CHASER, JUST THE TRUTH

cops nabbed 22-year-old Asil Assaidi of the Bronx for his alleged role in the meetup. According to the Queens DA’s Office, Assaidi was charged with first-degree reckless endangerment, second-degree riot, unlawful assembly, reckless driving and operating a motor vehicle without a license or insurance. He, too, is due back in court May 14.

The DA said about 50 cars and 100 people congregated at the intersection that night. Six more suspects are sought for the meetup, at which a police car’s windshield was cracked and fire blazed between two gas stations.

City Councilman Phil Wong (D-Maspeth) said the arrest is “another step toward accountability, but the work is far from over.”

“These reckless events put lives at risk, and my message remains the same: if you take part in this chaos, you will be found and you will be held accountable,” he said. Q

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Swastikas sprayed onto several buildings; police are investigating Synagogues, homes targeted by vandals

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

Multiple sites in Central Queens, including two synagogues, were found vandalized with antisemitic graffiti overnight, officials said Monday.

City Council Speaker Julie Menin (D-Manhattan) posted on X from Forest Hills’ Congregation Machane Chodosh that morning, which had a swastika spray painted on its wall. Other lawmakers on the scene included U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) and area Councilmembers Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) and Phil Wong (D-Maspeth).

The Rego Park Jewish Center also was targeted, with a swastika, “Hitler” and other marks spray painted on the facade.

“When rabbis and congregants arrived to pray this morning, they expected to be met with their usual loving community,” Menin wrote. “When a family woke up, they were prepared to begin an otherwise normal week. Instead, they were met with terrifying signals of hatred and threats of violence.”

Private homes also were vandalized — Menin shared photos of swastikas painted on a window and a garage door. Schulman later told the Chronicle that perpetrators also had thrown eggs at the latter home. Police said a car parked on the corner of 67th Drive and 110th Street was vandalized, too.

“This was premeditated, and we will find who it is,” Schulman said. She posted on social media Tuesday that the graffiti had been removed.

Later that night, the NYPD detailed five incidents of criminal mischief within the 112th Precinct that its Hate Crimes Task Force is investigating. Its official X account posted a surveillance video of four suspects. No arrests were made as of press time.

He said also that what begins as graffiti by hateful vandals can devolve into more violent crimes.

Mark Laster, a member of Community Board 6, who also is Jewish, said the incidents are “extremely scary,” and he is concerned about potential violent responses.

“We have a lot of Holocaust survivors in this community and there’s been a lot going on,” Laster told the Chronicle Tuesday.

He emphasized the importance of coming together in community — he is a leader of the group Central Queens Against Hate, which will run a “Breaking Bread Building Bonds” luncheon at Queens College May 17.

“This was premeditated, and we will find who it is.”

— City Councilmember

Rabbi Romiel Daniel of the Rego Park Jewish Center said in an email that the graffiti was done at around 1:15 a.m. Monday morning, and that the perpetrator could have come from outside the neighborhood, given Rego Park’s large Jewish population.

“This graffiti is symbolic of the constant hatred towards Jews and the antisemitic stand taken against Israel by the United Nations,” Daniel said, adding that antisemites “cannot accept” Jews standing up for themselves.

Area historian Michael Perlman, a fifthgeneration Forest Hills resident and selfdescribed “Conservadox Jew,” said the graffiti was a “disgrace.” Perlman said his father’s ancestors were killed in the Holocaust, as were the sisters of his maternal great-grandmother.

“We must stand in solidarity to denounce and strongly address the alarming rise in antisemitism among all hate crimes,” Perlman said. “Zero tolerance is essential.”

Lynn Schulman

That event, which will recognize both Asian American Pacific Islander and Jewish Heritage Month, was planned before Monday. But Laster said the city’s Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes offered to fund a series of healing events in light of the incidents.

“We’ll be coming up with different ways to address these issues and trying to bring the community together,” Laster said.

Perlman suggested having more cameras installed, and said perpetrators should get a one-year minimum sentence per property damaged. The responsible parties also should be required to remove graffiti in the general area, and pay $50,000 per property.

“The funds can be utilized to establish anti-hate programs and community preservation and beautification endeavors,” he said.

The graffiti was roundly condemned by lawmakers on social media. Wong said there is “no place for this kind of hatred in our community,” emphasizing a need for accountability. Meng said “hate has reared its ugly head” once again, concurring that

courage and faith.

“Congregants woke up Monday morning to find the same symbol of hate that once led to the murder of 6 million Jews.”

Recent antisemitic incidents have taken place in various parts of Queens. A rabbi in the Bukharian Jewish community was attacked at Queens and Yellowstone boulevards in Forest Hills Jan. 27. Weeks prior, a large pro-Hamas rally was held outside a Kew Gardens Hills synagogue.

The Chronicle reported last year that anti-Jewish vandalism was a persistent issue in some parts of Kew Gardens and Jackson Heights. A menorah in Travers Park was found covered in foam spray last year, the day before a planned Hanukkah celebration.

hate has “no place in Queens or anywhere else in our society.”

Along with Meng, Menin, Schulman and Wong, state Sens. Joe Addabbo (D-Woodhaven) and Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) as well as Assemblymembers Andrew Hevesi (D-Forest Hills) and Sam Berger (D-Flushing) issued a joint statement condemning the graffiti.

“This is not something to be dismissed or handled on a so called case by case basis,” the lawmakers said. “This is hate plain and simple.”

Elected officials and religious leaders in the area gathered for a press conference outside Congregation Machane Chodosh Tuesday evening. Among those in attendance was city Comptroller Mark Levine, who was quoted by Eyewitness News as saying Central Queens is “a refuge of Jews fleeing oppression.”

“Congregation Machane Chodosh was founded by Jews who fled Nazi Germany in search of safety and a chance to rebuild their lives,” Levine said on X. “Starting over in a new city and a new country takes immense

“Tagging a Jewish Center with a PreK with a swastika & ‘Hitler’ is not normal vandalism — it’s a targeted ‘mark’ against NYC Jews & their kids,” the X account @ queens_parents wrote, attaching a photo of the graffiti-covered Rego Park Jewish Center. The post says also that Mayor Mamdani “refuses to take the spiking rate of antisemitism seriously.”

In a statement, Mamdani said he is “horrified and angered” by the spray painted swastikas, including on a plaque at Machane Chodosh honoring survivors of Kristallnacht, the Night of Broken Glass, a deadly Nazi pogrom against Jews in 1938.

“This is not just vandalism — it is a deliberate act of antisemitic hatred meant to instill fear,” he said. “There is no place for antisemitism in Queens or anywhere in our city.”

Schulman, who co-chairs the Council’s Jewish Caucus, concurred, saying it was “just awful” that the graffiti was sprayed on the memorial.

“We can’t let things like this deter us from going about our daily activities and observing and everything else,” she said. “We should continue to be out there, and all of us, including myself, will continue to be vigilant on this.”

Daniel said he hopes police catch the perpetrators as soon as possible so Jewish people in and beyond the Rego Park Jewish Center feel “confident that no further such vile happenings take place.” Q

Vessel turn-ins become easier

The city’s free Vessel Turn-In Program just got a whole lot simpler to use.

The Parks Department on Tuesday announced the launch of a new web page to expand use of the program, which allows residents to turn in boats they can no longer care for, along with the option to request a removal via 311.

New Yorkers may call 311, go online to nycgovparks.org/facilities/boating/vtip or email vesselturnin@parks.nyc.gov to request removal of a boat or other vessel.

Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura in a statement said, “Expanding access to

our Vessel Turn-In Program builds on the great progress we’ve already made cleaning up over 120 derelict vessels by making sure that more boats don’t end up clogging up our waterways and polluting our marine ecosystems.”

To qualify for the turn-in program, boat owners must be able to provide proof of ownership. Only noncommercial, recreational vessels can be turned in, and the boat does not have to be derelict to qualify. Working and non-fully derelict boats, including ones that do not float, are accepted. Q

The Rego Park Jewish Center, left, was one of several buildings in Central Queens found covered in antisemitic graffiti Monday morning. Several homes also were struck, including one near 67th Drive and 108th Street. PHOTOS VIA @QUEENS_PARENTS / X , LEFT, AND @SPEAKERMENIN / X

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Three new schools coming to Queens

Locations expected to open this fall in Astoria, LIC and Woodside

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Three new public schools are set to open in Queens this fall, city officials announced Tuesday, bringing expanded classroom seats, specialized programming and a focus on arts and innovation to neighborhoods grappling with overcrowding.

Mayor Mamdani and city Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels said the schools — located in Long Island City, Astoria and Woodside — are part of a broader effort to improve access to high-quality education.

approach is aimed at building creativity and critical thinking skills.

According to the school’s website, it will open at 11-11 40 Ave. in LIC in September, but by fall 2028 will move to 23-10 43 Ave.

In Astoria, the Queens Academy for Innovative Learning will provide District 75 programming for students with disabilities in grades six through 12 at 165-15 88 Ave.

“These schools are designed to meet the diverse needs of our communities.”

The new Queens schools are the Academy of Cultural Excellence in Long Island City, Queens Academy for Innovative Learning in Astoria and West Q Elementary in Woodside. Each is designed to address area needs, from early childhood education to specialized services for students with disabilities.

— Chancellor Kamar Samuels

The Academy of Cultural Excellence will serve students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, emphasizing projectbased learning, arts integration and culturally responsive instruction. Officials said the

The school will focus on technology integration; science, technology, engineering, and mathematics exploration; and work-based learning to help students transition beyond the classroom.

West Q Elementary in Woodside will serve kindergarten through fifth grade, combining core literacy and math instruction with hands-on, project-based learning and a focus on multilingualism. The school’s website lists its address as 46 -10 70 St.

“Our new schools reflect a bold commitment to expanding access to high-quality, rigorous learning experiences for every student, in every neighborhood,” said Samuels in a prepared statement. “These schools are designed to meet the diverse needs of our

communities, including creating seat capacity where needed, delivering innovative and culturally responsive instruction, and preparing students with the skills and confidence to succeed in college, careers, and beyond.”

“Innovation, excellence and art are woven into the fabric of this city — they define what it means to be a New Yorker,” said Mayor Mamdani. “It’s time our schools reflect that

Community lifts up FDNY, NYPD heroes

Two hometown heroes took center stage last Saturday at the Richmond Hill Library.

The Queens Library Book Fair and Literary Festival honored FDNY Firefighter Thomas Gonzalez of Engine 294 in Richmond Hill, and Capt. Mario Deras, commanding officer of the NYPD’s 106th Precinct, during a program highlighting service and community inspiration. Gonzalez, center left, has served with the FDNY since 2003 and spent nearly two decades with Engine 294. He has also worked as an EMT and CPR instructor.

Deras, a lifelong New Yorker with nearly 20

years in the NYPD, has led the 106th Precinct since October following prior leadership roles across Queens and Manhattan. He was unable to attend Saturday’s event, so recognitions were accepted on his behalf by Community Affairs Officer Sukhjit Kaur.

Throughout the afternoon, young participants read original poetry paying tribute to the FDNY and NYPD, reflecting on heroism, sacrifice and community pride.

Organizers said the festival aimed not only to honor service members, but to give young people a platform to express appreciation and

perhaps imagine their own futures in service.

The event was organized by Dr. Dhanpaul Narine and featured moderators Dr. Veronica Wiltshire and Sherry Algredo, who led the honorees segment.

Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar presented proclamations to both honorees. Additional recognitions were issued by state Sens. Joe Addabbo Jr. and Leroy Comrie, Assemblymember David Weprin, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks and Councilmember Lynn Schulman, along with Community Board 9. — Kristen Guglielmo

reality. Our students deserve the best. This fall, we’ll deliver it with five new public schools that serve students of all ages, expand access for students with disabilities and put the arts at the center of education.”

The three new Queens sites are part of a larger rollout of five new public schools citywide for the 2026-27 academic year, with the other two located in the Bronx. Q

FSSA film fest set for May 15

The 19th annual Frank Sinatra School of the Arts Film Festival will take place on Friday, May 15.

The show begins at 6 p.m. in the school’s Tony Bennett Concert Hall, when underclassmen will debut films with diverse perspectives on the New York student experience. “From poignant narratives to neo-Westerns such as “The Fastest Reeler in the West,” the films showcase vibrant talents and personal identities celebrated at the school,” the organizers say.

The seniors’ film showcase follows at 8 p.m. Their works resonate with profound storytelling, exploring personal narratives and societal issues, and culminating in projects reflecting the students’ four years of dedication at Sinatra.

The organizers say the show’s production is superb, and viewers can see the passion and love the students have for their art form pouring off the screen.

Tickets are $20 and may be had through a link at franksinatraschoolofthearts.org. The school, which was founded by Bennett, is located at 35-12 35 Ave. in Astoria and may be reached at (718) 361-9920. Q — Peter C. Mastrosimone

Three new public schools will open in Queens this fall, the city announced on Tuesday. FILE PHOTO

Input wanted on Aqueduct

As horse racing operations move to Belmont, the end of an era is approaching for Aqueduct Race Track, and the state wants your help to decide what’s next.

Empire State Development is inviting the public to attend community visioning workshops, wherein officials will go over the project background and bring participants into the planning process.

The first workshop is on May 12 at John Adams High School, at 101-01 Rockaway Blvd. in Ozone Park, at 6 p.m. The second is entirely virtual, on May 14 at 6:30 p.m.

Residents will be welcome to share ideas and discuss their priorities for the historic South Ozone Park site. Among the possibilities for the soon-to-be vacant location are housing, commercial retail, community facilities and open space.

To register for the workshops, or for more information, one may go online to tinyurl.com/3jtp2c29.

Audit criticizes DOE’s data privacy Report identifies areas of issue in safeguarding information

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The city Department of Education has significant gaps in data privacy practices and fell short of requirements for reporting breaches, according to a state audit released in April.

The report, released by the office of State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, found that the nation’s largest school system has incomplete policies, delayed breach notifications and weak oversight of software used in schools.

Auditors found that the DOE’s data security policies do not fully align with federal standards and lack key components, such as formal rules for classifying data, assessing risk and ensuring system recovery.

The report also revealed delays in reporting data breaches. Nearly half, 48 percent, of 141 incidents reviewed between 2023 and early 2025 were not reported to the state on time.

ing concerns about oversight and potential vulnerabilities.

Training compliance posed another issue: Only 73 percent of employees completed the required annual data privacy training in 2024. The DOE also does not have a system to confirm if staff with access to sensitive data are properly trained.

The report further cited weaknesses in technical safeguards and criticized the department for delays in providing information to auditors.

[New York City Public Schools],” Moran wrote, adding that the agency complies with all federal, state and local privacy laws. “NYCPS staffs a dedicated Student Privacy Office to counsel NYCPS schools and offices on best privacy practices.”

Moran said the department has taken steps to improve privacy policies, including updating regulations and launching a student privacy webpage, and plans to continue aligning its cybersecurity practices with national standards.

While agreeing to enhance breach reporting, he noted delays can stem from late internal reporting or the time needed to investigate large-scale vendor breaches and identify affected individuals.

The DOE also defended its training approach and rejected criticism that it failed to cooperate, saying delays were due to the size and complexity of the school system.

Through the end of 2026, ESD will lead a community engagement and planning process to inform the creation of the Aqueduct Community Master Plan to come.

About 11 percent of affected students and families were not notified of breaches within required deadlines, with some delays stretching more than a year.

Q

— Kristen Guglielmo

The DOE also does not maintain an inventory of digital systems used across its schools, the audit found. Hundreds of schools rely on different applications, rais-

State officials issued several recommendations, including using the applicable National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework, developing a mechanism to ensure the DOE always issues notifications of breaches within required time frames; completing a written data and asset classification policy; developing a mechanism to ensure all student information systems used at schools are accounted for; and implementing a monitoring process to ensure employees with access to sensitive information are completing security training.

The DOE’s response to the audit, in the form of a letter to DiNapoli from Deputy Chancellor of School Operations Kevin Moran, was published with the report.

“Protecting the privacy and security of student data is of the utmost importance to

Overall, Moran said, the DOE accepts most recommendations and will work to strengthen its systems. Q

Bayside HS seeks funding and answers

State-approved CTE program does not receive full financing

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Bayside High School has been designated as a Career and Technical Education school by New York State since 2018, with every student enrolled in one of six state-certified career paths.

But a 2025 study compiled by the BHS Research Group, comprising members from the school’s Parent Teacher Association, School Resource Team and others, asserts that the city Department of Education has arbitrarily short-funded Bayside’s CTE program by millions of dollars by failing to fully recognize the state designation.

And state regulations appear to grant New York City Public Schools the discretion to do so.

The eight-page report alleges that designating BHS as having “CTE Programs in an Academic High School” rather than designating it as a Tier 1 portfolio school cost the institution about $657,000 in the 2023-24 academic year.

The estimate for the present year is about $800,000.

It also argues that the city is giving the money to schools that do not meet certification criteria or match Bayside’s success in awarding CTEcertified diplomas.

“Hundreds of millions of dollars are being spent to fund programs that either do not have state certification, do not graduate a single student from their tier programs or their students have a far lower completion rate than Bayside High School,” Dr. Alan Queen, president of the BHS PTA, told the Chronicle.

“We should be getting Tier 1 portfolio funding because 100 percent of our students are enrolled in one of our six state-certified programs, and that has been the case since 2018. And this year alone it is costing us $800,000.”

The six CTE disciplines at Bayside are computer programming and web design; digital art and design;

environmental engineering; humanities and nonprofit management; music performance and production; and sports medicine and management.

Parent Ronald Britt said the money would go toward things including paid student internships in their fields, computers and equipment and more.

Britt is a member of the school leadership team and, formerly, the PTA. He was part of the team that crafted the eight-page report.

“All the data was public data,” Britt said. “It’s all from the DOE or Public Schools, and from New York State. None of the numbers were skewed or fudged. ... As a parent, all I want is a fair opportunity for our kids.”

The report has a number of charts explaining funding and state eligibility requirements. It also compares funding among schools; and has a list of nine schools that as of the 2023-24 school year had a total of one state-approved CTE program and had no CTE diploma graduates in the previous five years.

And on page 6, the report has a chart comparing Bayside High School’s demographics with some portfolio-funded schools, including some with no state-approved programs.

“It is hoped that this or some perception that the school’s demographics ‘don’t need this support’ is not a reason for the denial of status, but this discrepancy and its potential role in unequal treatment should be further investigated,” the report states.

Queen and elected officials contacted by the Chronicle say city education officials long have been very aware of the report and their views on underfunding.

“I gave a copy of it to Mayor Eric Adams at a July 3, 2025 meeting,” Queen said. “Hand-delivered it to him [in the school gym].

He said a video posted by the

Parents and advocates for the Career and Technical Education program at Bayside High School say that an arbitrary designation at New York City Public Schools, aka the Department of Education, has deprived students of about $800,000 this year and millions since New York State certified the school in 2018.

administration showed both that and Queen’s daughter, now a senior, discussing the matter of funding with Adams.

Six months earlier, state Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-College Point) raised the issues of CTE funding and overcrowding with then-schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos.

Stavisky chairs the Senate’s Higher Education Committee and serves on the Education Committee.

aid for the city.

“It is therefore even more concerning that despite Bayside’s apparent compliance with CTE guidelines, it continues to be excluded from the very funding it’s supposed to receive,” the senator wrote, in a copy of the letter provided to the Chronicle.

“We should be getting Tier 1 portfolio funding ... ”

“I sent a letter in January 2025 summarizing the problem,” Stavisky told the Chronicle in an interview. “We followed up in an email and just got double-talk.”

— Dr. Alan Queen, Bayside HS PTA president

The four-paragraph letter, which her office provided, mentioned “funding inequities” in the first sentence.

A second letter last June, Stavisky said, got them nothing.

Community Board 11 that same month passed a two-page resolution calling on city school officials to address both the underfunding and overcrowding issues. Paul DiBenedetto, chairman of CB 11, preceded Queen as PTA president.

Then last Sept. 22, state Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) wrote a letter to AvilesRamos in diplomatic but very clear language.

The school is in Liu’s district. He also is chairman of the Senate’s Committee on New York City Education, and mentioned the $155 million he helped secure in CTE

Liu’s stance had not softened in a recent interview with the Chronicle.

But he also said it could be difficult, under existing state CTE regulations, to compel New York City Public Schools to change its course.

“Basically, it is up to the home school district to decide which schools within its own district to allocate the CTE funds to,” he explained.

State guidelines confirmed that decisions regarding portfolio funding are made at the district level, including documentation and auditing procedures.

Undesignated schools or programs may not issue CTE-certified diplomas.

The DOE gave a general response to questions from the Chronicle.

“Our Career and Technical Education programs are critical to preparing our students for success beyond their time at New York City Public Schools,” a spokesperson told the Chronicle in an email.

“We recognize that sustained funding is essential to preserving high-quality programs like those at Bayside High School, ensuring they remain accessible and impactful for every student. As leaders, we con-

tinue to evaluate how resources are allocated so that [we] are always supporting student growth and longterm success. We know that completion of these programs equips our students for real life experiences, and we strive to continue elevating them for years to come.”

The city has said it funds schools in accordance with the Fair Student Funding guidelines and there are no state criteria for portfolio funding.

It also has been city policy since the Bill de Blasio administration to expand existing programs rather than add new ones, something Queen said he was told in a meeting last summer.

“Every time we ask why, they come up with different answers, and many of them are demonstrably false,” Queen said.

“They keep moving the goal posts,” Britt said. “We may be a victim of our own success.”

DiBenedetto remained determined in a conversation on Tuesday.

“Ever since my time as PTA president of Bayside High School, I have strongly advocated for our school to be placed in the DOE’s CTE portfolio, which will properly fund Bayside High School for the brilliant work to prepare our kids for life beyond their high school years,” he said. “At CB 11, we have consistently supported this idea and do so to this day.”

Queen still wants more answers.

“How do they justify spending hundreds of millions of dollars on programs that are proven to be ineffective?” he asked. “That don’t graduate a single student? That don’t have state certification and are substandard?

“How do they justify this over the past decade? That is what we would like to know.” Q

GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE

DI Maldonado continues to break barriers

The commanding officer of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct has another first under her belt after a recent promotion.

Deputy Inspector Pratima Maldonado made history in 2023 as the first Sikh female captain in the NYPD.

Then, she broke another barrier in early 2025 when she became the department’s first Sikh female commanding officer.

Now Maldonado has become the first female Sikh deputy inspector — and the high-

est-ranking female Sikh in the NYPD.

The precinct shared photos from the recent promotion ceremony on its Facebook page and wrote, “Congratulations to our very own Commanding Officer Pratima B. Maldonado on her recent promotion to Deputy Inspector! The 102 Precinct & community are proud & honored to have you serve as our leader. The very first female Sikh Deputy Inspector in NYPD history! Well deserved!”

The Sikh Officers Association, in its own

social media post, also lauded Maldonado.

“Her achievement reflects years of dedication, leadership, and professionalism. ... This is a proud moment not only for the Sikh Officers Association, but for the entire Sikh community,” the post read.

The 102nd Precinct encompasses Richmond Hill, which has the largest Sikh population of any neighborhood in the city, and among the largest in the country.

— Kristen Guglielmo

Blood donors sought: NYBC

The New York Blood Center is always looking for donors of all types, and is especially encouraging donations with Mother’s Day approaching.

The NYBC in a recent press release said maternal postpartum hemorrhages account for more than 14 percent of pregnancy-related maternal deaths in the U.S. — and are often preventable if hospitals have immediate access to lifesaving blood.

To make an appointment to donate, one may visit nybc.org. There are several upcoming blood drives in and around South Queens.

• Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, private dining room, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 89-00 Van Wyck Expwy. in Richmond Hill; coordinator Elmer Ariza;

• Baba Makhan Shah Lobana Sikh Center, busmobile, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 17, 113-10 101 Ave. in South Richmond Hill; coordinator Inderjeet Singh; and

• As-Siddiq Muslim Organization, meeting room, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday, May 17, 117-25 133 St. in South Ozone Park; coordinator Nezam Khan. Q — Kristen Guglielmo

HAPPY

Mother’s

U.S. DOT appeals congestion ruling

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The Trump administration last Friday formally lodged an appeal of a March 1 court ruling that allowed congestion pricing to continue.

On March 1, U.S. District Judge Lewis Liman ruled that U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy lacked a specific authority he claimed in January 2025 — the month the program started — to terminate federal approval that had been granted under the administration of President Joe Biden.

massive tax on every New Yorker. These Green New Scam policies have made federally funded roads inaccessible to commuters without providing a toll-free alternative. The Trump Administration will not stop fighting to make everyday life more affordable for American families.”

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON

Liman denied a request from the MTA, plaintiff in the case, for a permanent injunction against the government.

“We disagree with the court’s ruling,” a U.S. Department of Transportation spokesperson said in an email. “Once again, working-class Americans are being sidelined under Democrats’ policies, which impose a

In an MTA email, John McCarthy, the agency’s chief of policy and external relations, was direct.

“Congestion pricing is working — fewer cars, less pollution, faster commutes,” McCarthy said. “Secretary Duffy has already lost in court and if he wants to see us there again, let’s go.”

Congestion pricing charges most private vehicles $9 to enter Manhattan at or south of 60th Street during peak hours and lower tolls overnight. Trucks pay more depending on their size. The aims are to secure a steady source of money for the MTA’s capital plan and divert traffic and pollution out of Manhattan. Tolls will go to $12 in 2028 and $15 in 2031. Q

The Great Woodhaven Yard sale is coming up

Neighborhood event returns this June

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

It’s not too late to register for the spring edition of The Great Woodhaven Yard Sale, hosted by the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association.

During TGWYS, neighbors turn their front yards into mini pop-up shops, hosting sales at the same time and drawing in curious customers from down the block and beyond — while offering a chance to mingle, chat and build a little more neighborhood spirit.

The event will be held on two Saturdays: June 6 and 13, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The rain dates are June 7 and 14.

Last June’s event was interrupted by two straight weekends of bad weather, with a makeup event in September.

In a press release, the WRBA said it is “again happy to be able to have community members gather with neighbors as participants and shoppers in June to celebrate one of the things that makes Wood-

haven special.”

As the event approaches, the WRBA will post the list of participating households on its event page, at facebook.com/ thegreatwoodhavenyardsale, and on wrba11421.org.

Any household wishing to participate with its own yard sale should sign up at forms.gle/muhw3aP34gPR97yy7. One may sign up to participate on just one Saturday or opt to partake in both. Q

The Trump administration is challenging the latest court ruling on congestion pricing.

The Great Woodhaven Yard Sale will return this year on June 6 and 13. PHOTO BY VANCE BARBOUR / FILE

Nurses Week 2026: ‘The Power of Nurses’

by Joleen Sams

National Nurses Week 2026 is here!

Nurses Week is an annual observance held from May 6 to May 12. This week honors the dedication of healthcare professionals and concludes on International Nurses Day. Led by the American Nurses Association, the 2026 theme “The Power of Nurses.”

We’ve put together a guide covering the history, celebration ideas, and the best Nurses Week discounts for 2026. Here is everything you need to recognize the impact nurses make every day.

What is National Nurses Week?

Every year, from May 6 to 12, nurses are recognized for their service and dedication to caring for others and improving the health of patients nationwide through National Nurses Week. Throughout the week, healthcare organizations celebrate their teams, and you’ll even see nurses featured on the news. People across the nation thank the nurses who have made a difference in their lives.

Nurses Week celebrates the effort, dedication, and sacrifice nurses

make every day. Nurses are essential members of America’s healthcare workforce who provide care through every stage of life, working with patients at their most intimate and vulnerable moments.

Nurses Week offers a chance to highlight and celebrate nurses for all we do.

When is Nurses Week 2026?

National Nurses Week is celebrated from Wednesday, May 6, to Tuesday, May 12. The week is just a part of the larger National Nurses Month, which is celebrated from May 1 to 31.

What is the 2026 Nurses Week theme?

The ANA has announced that the 2026 Nurses Week Theme is: drumroll please .... The Power of Nurses. The accompanying hashtag to use is #ThePowerOfNurses.

The International Council of Nurses has announced that the International Nurses Day theme is “Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives”

Why Nurses Week is celebrated

The ANA and other nursing organizations promote Nurses Week as a time to thank and recognize nurses across the country for their dedication to the profession and patients we serve. Healthcare organizations throw celebrations, and the public is encouraged to “thank a nurse” who’s made a difference in their lives.

Nurses Week is our time to shine. Let’s lift each other up and recognize the good in what we do every day. It’s

HAPPY NATIONAL NURSES WEEK

easy to dwell on everything that needs to be changed, but for one week, I challenge you to look for the good. Recognize your nurse besties, mentors, and the nurses who make a difference in your day. We’ve compiled the Best Gifts for Nurses Week.

How Nurses Week is celebrated

Every healthcare organization celebrates its nurses a bit differently. Many hold events throughout the week to recognize their nurses, and meals or gifts for the entire nursing team are common.

Managers and administration plan

and prepare for months to make the week special. If you’re stuck trying to decide the best way to show your appreciation, check out some of these Nurses Week appreciation ideas! In the community, you’ll see news reports highlighting extraordinary nurses who go above and beyond for their communities and patients. Many local businesses also create special offers for nurses — watch your local news and social media outlets to see what might be available near you.

Within Nurses Week, National Student Nurse Day is May 8, and National School Nurse Day is celebrated on the Wednesday during Nurses Week. Nursing has always been a profession that needs more than just your time and knowledge. Nursing requires heart, passion, and dedication to serving others. Nurses Week allows the public to acknowledge and than k nurses for the work they choose every day. It’s a chance for us to pause and thank the nurses who have made a difference in our careers.

— provided by Nurses.org

Nursing a rewarding, diverse field

Nursing is a wise career choice for people looking for a challenging yet rewarding profession. Significant nursing shortages continue to pose a challenge within the health care industry, as the United States is believed to have a deficit of around 296,000 nurses.

Nurses work in many different facilities and can focus on an array of specialties. Nurses may be categorized by their levels of education. Each level has a different scope of practice and responsibility. Those considering nursing as a career, or patients preparing to see a nursing provider for care, can explore these types of nurses.

Licensed practical nurse

LPNs are health care professionals responsible for basic patient care and comfort. They typically are a patient’s primary point of contact and relay information to the rest of the care team. One can think of LPNs as entry-level nurses, although their responsibilities are no less important than other medical professionals’. LPNs typically work under others’ direct supervision and assist patients with eating, dressing

and bathing. LPNs also take vital signs and administer medications.

The American Nursing Association says becoming an LPN or a licensed vocational nurse requires a high school diploma or GED and a vocational training course, and a passing grade on the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses is necessary.

Registered nurse

RNs require a higher level of education than LPNs and they can provide more complex and comprehensive care for patients. RNs often handle a wider range of patient services and take on more responsibilities than LPNs. The ANA says two college degree paths available to aspiring RNs are an associate degree in nursing and a bachelor of science in nursing. A BSN requires a greater financial commitment and a

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four-year undergraduate program takes time to complete. Many employers zero in on candidates with a BSN.

Nurses who have advanced degrees are called advanced practice registered nurses. They have specialized training beyond that of a typical registered nurse and have broader scopes of practice. They may work with greater autonomy in certain specialties.

Certified nurse practitioner

A CNP is a health partner of choice for many people. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners says CNPs are clinicians that blend clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating health conditions with an emphasis on disease prevention and health management. Advanced education, like a master’s or doctoral degree, is required to become a CNP. He or she is able to prescribe medications, order diagnostic tests and manage chronic conditions.

Certified nurse-midwife CNMs provide gynecological and low-risk obstetrical care. These advance practice registered nurses

focus their study and practices on gynecology, family planning, prenatal, labor, and postpartum care. In addition to an advanced degree, CNMs must complete an accredited midwifery education program and pass a national certification exam.

Certified registered nurse anesthetist CRNAs have specialized training in anesthesia. The Cleveland Clinic notes CRNAs can administer anes-

thesia for procedures and surgeries. These professionals work with surgeons, anesthesiologists, dentists, podiatrists, and other providers. CRNAs often are the sole anesthesia providers in hospitals in rural areas and the U.S. armed forces.

Nursing is an extensive field with many opportunities for individuals to find their niche. P — Metro Creative Connection

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A timeline of National Nurses Week

The American Nurses Association declared May 6 to May 12 as the permanent week to celebrate nurses in 1993. Now, more than 30 years later, at over four million strong, nurses are the largest group of healthcare professionals that the American public consistently ranks as the most honest and ethical. Nurses Week is intended to celebrate nurses in a meaningful way to increase the understanding of the value of nursing by raising the visibility of the critical work nurses do. By elevating the profession, the ANA hopes to spur greater investment in the support and increased capacit y of the nursing workforce. Florence Nightingale’s birthday is May 12, which is why National Nurses Week ends on this day each year. These permanent dates enhance planning and position National Nurses Week as an established recognition event.

A brief history of National Nurses Week

1953 • Dorothy Sutherland of the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare sent a proposal to President Eisenhower to proclaim a “Nurse Day” in October of the following year. The proclamation was never made.

1954 • National Nurse Week was observed from October 11 to 16. The year of the observance marked the 100th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s mission to Crimea. Representative Frances P. Bolton sponsored the bill for a nurse week. Apparently, a bill for a National Nurse Week was introduced in the 1955 Congress, but no action was taken. Congress discontinued its practice of joint resolutions for national weeks of various kinds.

1972 • Again a resolution was presented by the House of Representatives for the president to proclaim

“National Registered Nurse Day.” It did not occur.

1974 • In January of that year, the International Council of Nurses proclaimed that May 12 would be “International Nurse Day.” Since 1965, the ICN has celebrated “International Nurse Day.”

1974 • In February of that year, a week was designated by the White House as National Nurse Week, and President Nixon issued a proclamation.

1978 • New Jersey Gov. Brendon Byrne declared May 6 as “Nurses Day.” Edward Scanlan, of Red Bank, NJ, took up the cause to perpetuate the recognition of nurses in his state. Scanlan had this date listed in Chase’s Calendar of Annual Events. He promoted the celebration of Nurses Day on his own.

1981 • The ANA, along with various nursing organizations, rallied to

support a resolution initiated by nurses in New Mexico, through their congressman, Manuel Lujan, to have May 6, 1982, established as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”

1982 • In February, the ANA board

of directors formally acknowledged May 6, 1982 as “National Nurses Day.” The action affirmed a joint resolution of the United States Congress designating May 6 as “National Recognition Day for Nurses.”

1982 • President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation on March 25, proclaiming “National Recognition Day

for Nurses” to be May 6, 1982.

1990 • The ANA board of directors expanded the recognition of nurses to a week-long celebration, declaring May 6 to 12, 1991, as National Nurses Week.

1993 • The ANA board of directors designated May 6-12 as permanent dates to observe National Nurses Week in 1994 and in all subsequent years.

1996 • The ANA initiated “National RN Recognition Day” on May 6, 1996, to honor the nation’s indispensable registered nurses for their tireless commitment 365 days a year. The ANA encourages its state and territorial nurses associations and other organizations to acknowledge May 6, 1996 as “National RN Recognition Day.”

1997 • The ANA board of directors, at the request of the National Student Nurses Association, designated May 8 as National Student Nurses Day. Q — American Nurses Association

Florence Nightingale’s work in deplorable conditions in British military field hospitals in the Crimean War was the stepping off point for the modern nursing profession. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS PHOTO

Sunset Garden, city settle federal case

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The case between Ridgewood’s Sunset Community Garden and the city has been settled “in principle,” court records show.

Lawyers from the city’s Corporation Counsel on April 30 filed a joint letter, with the consent of Jonathan Wallace, the garden’s attorney, informing U.S. District Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall of the settlement. It asks for 30 more days to finalize the accord, and no other filings were made by press time.

Members of the garden, at Onderdonk and Willoughby avenues, filed the federal suit last summer seeking redress for the city Parks Department’s alleged “discriminatory and retaliatory campaign” to suppress their free speech. Parks had moved to end the group’s license agreement last May, claiming that it broke the city’s rules for gardens by requiring ideological commitments of members, including ones to anti-racism, antiZionism and anti-homophobia.

Some Jewish residents had said they felt unwelcome there, and both garden members and opponents have reported being threatened.

Under the settlement, garden members

will no longer be required to be anti-Zionist, per a Parks spokesperson. But both the city and the group will operate in accordance with the law, including the New York City Human Rights Law, which bans discrimination in employment, housing and public accommodations.

Another conflict was over the garden’s memorial for transgender activist Cecilia Gentili. Parks had ordered its removal, saying it did not qualify for permanent display.

Parks said the statue can stay for up to a year, and will ask that the Department of Education review it for more permanent placement. The DOE leases the garden, located on a previously unused part of Grover Cleveland High School’s athletic fields, to Parks, the spokesperson said.

Parks also will reinstate the garden’s license with GreenThumb, the agency’s program that supports hundreds of gardens across the city. It will run through 2032.

“The City and Sunset Garden are happy to have resolved this case to both parties’ satisfaction, in a manner that safeguards the rights of all members of the community,” Parks said in a statement. Wallace did not respond to requests for comment. Q

B SPORTS EAT

The fault, dear fans ...

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Despite the Mets being a disaster area that was worthy of FEMA assistance the first month of the 2026 season, team President of Baseball Operations David Stearns told the media last Friday that Manager Carlos Mendoza would be keeping his job. The “Mendoza watch” intensified after the Phillies and Red Sox both dismissed their skippers after disappointing starts.

While Mendoza, like all managers, has made his share of mistakes, he is the least culpable for the Mets morass. Last week, New York Post veteran baseball columnist Jon Heyman asked him one of the most memorable questions I have ever heard at a press conference. “Sorry to be blunt, but have you considered the possibility this isn’t a very good team?” He seemed momentarily stunned, then said he believed in his players.

You can be sure Stearns heard Heyman’s spoton query, as he did relief pitcher Luke Weaver’s comments after a heartbreaking April 30 matinee 5-4 loss to the Washington Nationals. Weaver, who surrendered the game-losing homer to CJ Abrams, was asked why the Mets were playing such bad baseball. His reply was that the team is trying too hard to be perfect.

Weaver admitted the players were pressing because they were trying to save their manager’s job and were well-aware of what happened in Boston and Philadelphia. Stearns understood

Mendoza’s job status had to be addressed.

A key reason the Mets have struggled has been the poor performance of starting pitchers David Peterson, Sean Manaea and Kodai Senga. After yet another disastrous start, Senga was put on the injured list because of inflammation between the L4 and L5 ligaments in the spine.

The last time I heard about L4 and L5 issues relating to a Met was David Wright, who had to prematurely retire in 2018. While Senga has not been diagnosed with spinal stenosis as Wright was, it will not surprise me if the Mets try to buy out his contract if he agrees to retire. The team could then try to recoup the remainder of his contract from their insurance underwriters.

Yankees slugger Giancarlo Stanton is following in the footsteps of Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor as he too has incurred a calf injury requiring placement on the injured list.

Pete Alonso was in good spirits on his return to New York last Friday when the Orioles played the Yankees. I asked if he liked crab cake, and whether he visited Phillips Seafood restaurant.

“Yes, to both questions, but Jimmy’s Famous is better!”

I then told him I speak on behalf of most of Queens saying we miss seeing him in Flushing, but not as much as the Mets team store does.

“That’s a good one!” he chuckled. Q See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

They actually do this!

It was a purr-fect rescue.

On Sunday in Ozone Park, FDNY Ladder 143 responded to a call that came at around 11 a.m., reporting a cat stuck in a tree on 84th Street, between Atlantic and 95th avenues.

Firefighters climbed up to reach the cat, carefully securing the fluffy feline before safely returning to the ground.

The FDNY shared photos from the Ozone Park rescue on social media, celebrating the successful save with a simple message: “Some heroes climb ladders instead of wearing capes!” — Kristen Guglielmo

Cats being rescued from a tree by firefighters are a common depiction in pop culture, though it’s not often a rescue of such kind is seen outside of fictional media.

The blocks-long factory at 37-18 Northern Blvd. in Long Island City has seen the manufacture of everything from furniture to auto parts in its 107year existence.

But since 2004, Jim Henson’s Creature Shop has been crafting nothing short of magic. Since February and through Sept. 26, Saturday tours are allowing people a glimpse, for the first time, of how Muppets and cast members of “The Dark Crystal,” “Fraggle Rock” and more magically come to life.

Henson, the gentle genius behind Kermit the Frog, Cookie Monster and all the rest, died suddenly in 1990 at age 53.

But his vision now is on display like never before.

The tours are about 80 minutes long and feature puppetry demonstrations, a video history of the Creature Shop and a tour of the factory floor where Muppets and other puppets are being meticulously

and lovingly crafted.

Tickets are $155, and can be ordered at tinyurl. com/yck8jpky. The first tour begins at 9:40 a.m., and the last at 4:20 p.m.

“We get all types of people,” said Melissa Creighton, director of the New York Creature Shop. “Some people are fans of Jim Henson from the time they

were kids ... and other people are artists, people who make things and tourists, people looking for something fun to do while they’re in New York.”

All of the above were on a recent tour, like Jessica Irvin of Richmond Hill.

“I work in a costume shop and design costumes,” Irvin said. “I bought myself a ticket for my 40th birthday.”

Stephen and Sharon Hinkel of San Francisco were in New York to see some Broadway shows and found tickets were available.

“Just before we came we saw Frank Oz at the Presidio,” Stephen Hinkel said of Henson’s decadeslong puppeteer and collaborator.

Tour guide Ben Durocher has been with the company for 11 years as a puppet designer, craftsman and performer; Jonah Bowen for three months. continued on page 31

King Crossword Puzzle

Camarda gazed at the final frontier from Ozone Pk.

by Ron Marzlock

Chronicle Contributor

Giacome “Jack” Camarda was born in Queens on Nov. 29, 1924. He fell in love with 20-year-old Raeffaela “Ray” Geraci. and they were married in November 1947. Their first child, Bernard, arrived on Oct. 19, 1948, and their second, Charles, on May 8, 1952.

Jack worked as a retail butcher. They lived with Ray’s family at 105-13 87 St. in Ozone Park. The boys enjoyed the intense closeness of a loving grandfather from Palermo, Sicily, and a grandmother from Arienzo, Italy. In 1955 they bought a brand-new 882-squarefoot, two-bedroom, one-bathroom brick house at 137-28 96 St. in Ozone Park.

Charles was a standout student and athlete at Archbishop Molloy High, graduating in 1970. He earned an aerospace engineering degree from Polytech Institute in 1974, a master’s in engineering science from George Washington University in 1980 and a doctorate in aerospace engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1990. He was a research scientist at NASA’s Langley Research Center. A marriage to Sabrina Tam Martin in 1986 ended by 1989.

Camarda was named an astronaut candidate in 1996, and ventured into space on STS-114, the historic return-to-flight mission of Space Shuttle Discovery, on July 26, 2005. His accomplishments are many; he also holds nine patents and is an author.

His second marriage was to Melinda Miller. They have a child, Chelsea, and he is stepfather to Melinda’s three children. Expect more great things from Camarda before he hangs up his space suit. Q

The childhood home of of astronaut Charles Camarda at 137-28 96 St. in Ozone Park, as it looks today. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET PHOTO /FILE

Emotions endure in LIC, with Chekhov rendition

by Stephanie G. Meditz editor

The country is at war. Everything is expensive. Society feels like it’s crumbling.

And yet, we can’t help but worry about things that feel trivial in comparison, like our own crushing sense of loneliness.

Personal, often chaotic emotions drive City Gate Productions’ staging of “Stupid F--king Bird,” an adaptation of Anton Chekhov’s 19th-century tragicomedy “The Seagull.” Not only does it shine a light on feelings that we often hide, but it adds comedic elements to them, and in front of an audience that is actively involved in how things play out.

“These are very complicated people that do some awful things, and love each other, and do some very relatable things, all often at the same time,” director Jorden CharleyWhatley told the Chronicle.

The audience is thrown into the characters’ frustrations about unrequited love and anxieties about making art, as Con (Kyle Cooper Watkins) stages an original play before an audience including his actress mother, Emma (Laura Frenzer) and her lover, the successful writer Trig (Bart Black). Starring in it is Nina (Regina Famatigan), with whom Con is hopelessly in love.

That sense of hopelessness only intensi-

fies throughout the show, in no small part due to Nina’s infatuation with Trig and Con’s mother making a mockery of his work.

All the while, Mash (Juliet Wolfe) is miserably in love with Con. Dev (Aaron Lamm) is aware of that, and still miserably in love with Mash.

Authentic, alive and superbly acted down the slate, “Stupid F--king Bird” portrays emotions that would be quite familiar to

audiences from other times. Even the production’s setting is vague — some costumes, such as the fedora worn by Sorn (Tom Staggs), might suggest a certain era, but then another character will wear an ensemble that’s trendy by modern standards.

“People have had the same problems since we started having problems,” Charley-Whatley said.

The show certainly deals with issues that

transcend time and space, but the newer reworking also comments on the state of art and theater more directly than its source material, Charley-Whatley explained. After Con’s play is less than well-received, his rant about how no one makes substantial art anymore hits close to home, as the industry gets increasingly commercial and artificial intelligence continues to advance.

Relying as it does on audience engagement, getting up close and personal is what “Stupid F--king Bird” does best. Don’t be surprised if a character who made you laugh chastises you for laughing, and later brings you to tears. Decisions made by some characters might be baffling, but that person may also put to words a feeling you’ve had, but never described.

“I want people to feel like they were in communication with each other,” CharleyWhatley said. “I want people to see themselves, both in the good choices they make and the not-great choices that they make.”

The remaining performances, at The Secret Theatre in Long Island City, are today, May 7, at 7:30 p.m., May 8 and 9 at 8 p.m. and May 10 at 3 p.m. Tickets are at citygateproductions.org for $25 each, or $20 for seniors and students. To learn more, one may call (929) 377-7495 or email info@citygateproductions.org. Q

The magic is real at Jim Henson’s Creature Shop

continued from page 29

The tour begins with a trip up to what looks at first like a storeroom. But a quick turn shows a platform where visitors can pose for pictures with Oscar the Grouch in his garbage can surrounded by a generous pile of his trash.

Farther back in the room are rows of chairs where guests see a video of the history of the Creature Shop in New York City. But as luck would have it, puppeteer

Crossword Answers

Noel MacNeal was visiting that day, and gave a lesson in his craft.

“I started out as a puppet wrangler,” MacNeal said. He was then trained by the likes of the late Caroll Spinney, aka Big Bird, Oscar and others. He now performs in and trains puppeteers for international productions of “Sesame Street” and other Henson Co. projects.

And when he needed help with a puppet requiring another right hand, he recruited Phil Oliveira of Warwick, RI, from the audience.

“I’ve been making puppets all my life,” Oliveira said, adding that his original intent was to pursue it as a career.

MacNeal even had the audience perform their moves with their hands well above their heads, something every Henson puppeteer must master.

During a Q&A, a tour member pointed to a full-size costume for Junior Gorg from “Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock” and asked MacNeal if it had anything inside to keep performers cool during long performances.

“I’ll defer to Ben on that,” MacNeal said with a smile. Durocher has performed as that character and others on the show.

“No,” he said. “But they will blow leaf blowers into them while we’re wearing them.”

From there it was down the hall to the actual workshop — all phones and recording devices not only must be turned off, but put in pockets and purses.

Master puppet maker Anney Ozar, a

25-year-veteran, was crafting an elongated head out of foam rubber. By the shape alone, it could only be Bert. Ozar also took questions from a fascinated audience.

“They love it,” Creighton said. “Because they get to see a private, special place that never has been open to the public before.” Q

As Con and Nina, Kyle Cooper Watkins and Regina Famatigan are vessels for heavy emotions, to which people throughout the ages have been no stranger.

PHOTOS BY ROSE GONZALES

Master puppeteer Noel MacNeal coaches Kenneth Kirchner, right, of New Jersey, at Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, which has many attractions including Muppets for sale, inset. On the cover: Jessica Irvin of Richmond Hill visits Oscar the Grouch. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL GANNON

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Doubleu Labs, LLC Auth. filed w/ SSNY 4/15/26. Off. in Queens Co. Cert of Form filed w/ SSDE 3/31/26. Process served to SSNY - desig. as agt. of LLC & mailed to Discern Registered Agent Inc., 1252 Forrest Ave, Dover, DE 19904. Add. maintd. in DE: 1252 Forrest Ave, Dover, DE 19904. Name & add. of auth. officer in DE where Cert of Form filed: SSDE, Div. of Corp, John G Townsend, Bldg, 401

Legal Notices

CACFP BIDS REQUEST

Sealed bids will be received at the Heartshare Human Services of New York office at 330 Jay Street Brooklyn, NY 11201, ATTN: Gaetano Taldone until 12pm on 5/22/2026 for meals delivered to 1825 Bath Ave Brooklyn, Ny 11214, 82-12 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 5/26/26 at 12:00 PM.

Notice is hereby given that a Liquor License, serial number NA0524-26-05633, for beer, wine, and liquor has been applied for by the undersigned to permit the sale of beer, wine, and liquor at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverages Control Law at HMSHOST JFK T5 PARTNERS, LLC located at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Terminal 5, Space No. 29EC-1 & 29EC-2 Central Terminal Building, Jamaica, NY 11430-2084 on premise consumption.

25TH AVENUE PROPERTY

LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/28/2026. 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, 101-05 Lefferts Blvd., Ste 207, S Richmond Hill, NY 11419. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of Aura Medical Of New York, PLLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/16/2025. 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: THE LLC, 23-25 31ST STREET, SUITE 800, ASTORIA, NY 11105. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY

Notice of Formation of 1010 47TH AVENUE 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: THE LLC, 5001 5TH STREET, 2A, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of CNPB GROUP LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/02/2026. 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: CNPB GROUP LLC, 28-13 DITMARS BOULEVARD, ASTORIA, NY 11105

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of CONNECTA SOLUTIONS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/17/2026. 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: Giovanny Ospina, 3031 42ND STREET, APT 2, ASTORIA, NY 11103 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of CROWN REGO LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/24/2025. 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: OSHER NIYAZOV, 161-10A UNION TPKE, FRESH MEADOWS, NY 11366. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of OBS EVENTS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/17/2026. 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: OSCAR MARTINEZ RUIZ, 24436 88TH ROAD, BELLEROSE, NY 11426. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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 June 5, 2026 at 10:00 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

Notice of Formation of GAN STAMFORD HOLDINGS LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/13/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o 220-46 73rd Ave., Bayside, NY 11364. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of formation of Grand Palm Enterprises LLC, a domestic LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on April 22, 2026. Office location: Queens. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 154-36 23rd Avenue, Whitestone, New York, 11357. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of IVY AVENUE LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/01/2026. 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: TINA NGUYEN, 3450 43RD ST., #1R, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718-722-3131.

The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.

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The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP) is requesting a temporary closure of a segment of 31st Road between Linden Place and 137th Street in the Whitestone neighborhood of Queens Community District 7 to facilitate construction of a new pump station. The existing facility is past is useful lifespan having been constructed in the 1930s and needs replacement to maintain reliable service for the community it serves. The reconstruction will provide a new station that meets the latest standards, increases service redundancy, and is resilient to flooding.

A Community Reassessment, Impact and Amelioration (CRIA) Statement has been prepared to analyze the temporary closure of this street segment. Construction is expected to last approximately 36 months, with the temporary street closure in place for approximately 24 months.

By law, all street closures lasting longer than 180 days require a public forum, followed by a CRIA Statement or Environmental Assessment Statement (EAS) incorporating public comments and responses. As part of the CRIA process, a study was conducted in coordination with NYC DOT to evaluate the temporary closure, assess traffic impacts, and identify mitigation measures. The results of this study will be presented at the public forum. Members of the public are invited to attend and will have the opportunity to provide comments. This forum complies with Local Law 24 of 2005 (Title 34, Chapter 2, Section 2-16 of the Rules of the City of New York). The public forum will be held remotely.

Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 5:00PM EST

To attend or speak at this meeting by computer, smartphone, or tablet use the following Microsoft Teams meeting code or direct link: https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/233247786059813?p=JFQY1nQEjv7NBAGkII

Meeting ID: 233 247 786 059 813

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PROBATE CITATION File No. 2024-4655/B SURROGATE’S

COURT-QUEENS COUNTY CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent To: Public Administrator of Queens County, and the distributees, heirs at law and next of kin of Gloria C. De Fina, a/k/a Gloria De Fina, deceased, if any be living; and if any be dead, their respective distributees, heirs at law, next of kin, legatees, devisees, executors, administrators, assigns and successors in interest, all of whose names, whereabouts and addresses are unknown and cannot be ascertained with due diligence, being any persons interested in the estate of Gloria C. De Fina, a/k/a Gloria De Fina, deceased, as distributees or otherwise, AND Dana Moxley, Linda Miles, Stephanie Hagan, Joe De Fina, Pamela De Fina, Angela De Fina, Robert De Fina, Barbara Burns; and Anna DeLuca, Rosie DeLuca, Michael DeLuca, whose whereabouts and addresses are unknown and cannot be ascertained with due diligence, being persons interested in the estate of GLORIA C. DE FINA a/k/a GLORIA DE FINA, deceased, as distributees or otherwise, A petition having been duly filed by Henry J. De Fina Jr. who is domiciled at 14 Nye Avenue, Whippany, New Jersey 07981 YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Queens County, at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York, on June 4, 2026, at 9:30 o’clock in the fore noon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of Gloria C. De Fina a/k/a Gloria De Fina lately domiciled at: 22031 Union Turnpike, Oakland Gardens, NY 11364 admitting to probate a Will dated September 29th, 2014 (a Codicil dated N/A), a copy of which is attached, as the Will of Gloria C. De Fina a/k/a Gloria De Fina, deceased, relating to real and personal property, and directing that [x] Letters Testamentary issue to: Henry J. De Fina Jr. Dated, Attested and Sealed April 06, 2026 HON. Cassandra A. Johnson, Surrogate, Janet Edwards Tucker, Chief Clerk, Gregory P. Kramer, Esq.-Law Offices of Kramer & Associates, p.c. 516775-0300, 99 Tulip Avenue, Suite 406, Floral Park, New York 11001. Email: GPKramer@Kramer.Law. [NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you.] P-5 (10/96)

PARALITOS LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 04/06/2026. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Nikolaos Grigorios Kavnoydias, 23-31 28th St., Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of PROSLOT BOS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/20/2026. 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, 5031 211th STREET, BAYSIDE HILLS, NY 11364 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of SD GLOBALEDU LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/21/2026. 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: LEKI, 76-11 37TH AVENUE, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NEW YORK CITY, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

THREE IN ONE EQUITIES, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/19/10. Latest date to dissolve: 12/31/2080. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 31-10 37th Avenue Ste 500, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

SUMMONS Index No. 724401/2024 STATE OF NEW YORK

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST CO. NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK TRUST COMPANY, N.A., SUCCESSOR TO JP MORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., Plaintiff -against- WILLIAM H. HSU AKA WILLIAM HSU, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated March 17, 2023, 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 May 29, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the northwesterly side of Bayside Lane, distant 274.70 feet southwesterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the northwesterly side of Bayside Lane with southerly side of 26th Avenue 80 feet wide; RUNNING THENCE Southwesterly along the northwesterly side of Bayside Lane, 38.02 feet; RUNNING THENCE Westerly along the northerly side of 27th Avenue, 9.80 feet; RUNNING THENCE Northerly on a line at right angles to the northerly side of 27th Avenue, 110 feet; RUNNING THENCE Easterly on a line at right angles to the last mentioned course, 40 feet; RUNNING THENCE Southerly on a line at right angles to the last mentioned course, 86.90 feet to the northwesterly side of Bayside Lane, the point or place of BEGINNING. Block: 4902 Lot: 145 Said premises known as 26-30 BAYSIDE LANE, COLLEGE POINT, NY 11356 Approximate amount of lien $463,926.20 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 703556/2016. LESLEY J. LANOIX, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030 File# 5025.1240

Notice of Formation of Woodside North Condominium LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State: 3/26/26. Office location: Queens County. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: 203 Park Lane, Douglas Manor, NY 11363, principal business address. Purpose: all lawful purposes.

Notice of Formation of YNH NOTARY SERVICES LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/07/2026. 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: YOMARI NUNEZ HINRICKSEN, 28-24 STEINWAY STREET, #111, ASTORIA, NY 11103. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT – COUNTY OF QUEENS JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION S/B/M CHASE HOME FINANCE LLC, Plaintiff, -vs- THE HEIRS AT LARGE OF ANTENOR V. JOHNSON, deceased, and all persons who are spouses, widows, grantees, mortgagees, lienors, heirs, devisees, distributees, successors in interest of such of them as may be dead, and their husbands and wives, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors of interest of all of whom and whose names and places are unknown to Plaintiff; TERESA HOLMES; SHONTAY HOLMES; JANET JACOBS; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; SHANREL TORRES; ROBERTO TORRES; LEANNY GOMEZ and JANE DOE, individual whose name remains unknown to Plaintiff; Defendants. Mortgaged Premises: 7537 61st Street, Glendale, NY 11385 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): 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 hereof. Your failure to appear or 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, unless the Defendant obtained a bankruptcy discharge and such other or further relief as may be just and equitable. 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 to 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 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 (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the mortgaged premises. Dated: October 30, 2024 Mark K. Broyles, Esq. FEIN SUCH & CRANE, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff Office and P.O. Address 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, New York 14614 Telephone No. (585) 232-7400 Block: 3586 Lot: 28 NATURE AND OBJECT OF ACTION The object of the above action is to foreclose a mortgage held by the Plaintiff recorded in the County of QUEENS, State of New York as more particularly described in the Complaint herein. TO THE DEFENDANT, the plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. To the above named defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of HON. Denise N. Johnson Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, dated October 10, 2025 and filed along with the supporting papers in the QUEENS County Clerk’s ,Office. This is an action to foreclose a Mortgage. 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 Mortgaged Premises: 7537 61st Street, Glendale, NY 11385 Tax Map/Parcel ID No.: Block: 3586 Lot: 28 of the BOROUGH of QUEENS, NY 11385 89852