Primary election day is on its way
Learn who’s running in all the key races, from mayor to City Council
by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor
The June 24 primaries are just over a week away, with early voting starting this Saturday, and Queens residents are gearing up to cast their ballots in several key races. Folks will have the chance to make important decisions about who will represent them, from the crowded competition for the Democratic mayoral nomination to several City Council contests.
The city will use ranked-choice voting in the races for mayor, public advocate, comptroller and City Council, meaning voters may rank up to five candidates in the order of their preference instead of selecting just one.
The polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Election Day. The window for early voting opens June 14 and closes June 22, and polling sites will operate at different times throughout.
Voters can visit findmypollsite.vote.nyc to learn where to cast their ballots, or view a sample one by entering their home address.
People also may check their voter registration status by visiting amiregistered.vote.nyc or calling 1 (866) 868-3692. The last day to register to vote in the primary election is June 14.
Mayor
The often-heated, highly anticipated contest for the Democratic mayoral nomination is the most crowded on the ballot, with 11 hopefuls listed. They include state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria); former city Comptroller Scott Stringer; businesswoman Selma Bartholomew; state Sen. Zellnor Myrie (D-Brooklyn); City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica); former Gov. Andrew Cuomo; state Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights); former hedge fund manager Whitney Tilson; former Bronx Assemblyman Michael Blake; Comptroller Brad Lander; and artist and activist Paperboy Love Prince. The victor will face off against incumbent Mayor Adams, who is seeking re-election as an independent, former prosecutor Jim Walden and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa in November.
Public advocate
Challenging incumbent Public Advocate Jumaane Williams are Marty Dolan, who ran against Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-Bronx, Queens) in last year’s primary, and Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven).
Comptroller
Vying for comptroller on the Democratic ticket are Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, government and finance professional Ismael Malave Perez, Councilmember Justin Brannan (D-Brooklyn) and state Sen. Kevin Parker (D-Brooklyn). Republican voters will have a choice
Civil Court county judge In the race for judge of the Queens County Civil Court, Democratic voters will choose between attorneys John Ciafone and Sheridan Chu.
continued on page 12
Triduum to Saint Anthony of Podua will be from Tuesday, June 10th to Thursday, June 12th after all Masses.
Feast Day of Friday, June 13th, 2025
Feast Day Mass times: 8:30am, 12:00pm & 6:30pm
Distribution of the Saint Anthony bread and anointing of Saint Anthony oil after Masses.
Please write your petition below and place in basket labeled St. Anthony Petition
between Peter Kefelas and Danniel Maio.
Queens
Queens voters will choose among primary candidates in several high-stakes races June 24, including for mayor, public advocate, comptroller and City Council. PHOTOBYMICHAELSHAIN/FILE
Lopez advises on ways to protect homes during the storm season Queens DEP commish talks flooding prep
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Residents concerned about rising waters and storm preparedness got an in-depth crash course during last Thursday’s Community Board 10 meeting at the Old Mill Yacht Club in Howard Beach.
“We’re always mindful of stormwater, coastal flooding and groundwater,” said Alfonso Lopez, the Queens commissioner for the Department of Environmental Protection.
“Sewers are our first line of defense,” Lopez said. “As you know, they handle 98 percent of our rain events, and they’re designed to handle 1.5 to 1.75 inches of rain per hour.”
When storms exceed that threshold, issues can arise with flooding and sewer backups. Lopez explained that 60 percent of the city has combined sewers that carry both wastewater and stormwater.
During heavy rainstorms, the systems can get overwhelmed, leading to backups through manholes, catch basins and into basements.
On tidal coastal flooding, Lopez acknowledged that residents of Howard Beach are all too familiar.
“We try to manage that with all sorts of manner of devices — tide gates, valves,” he said.
He gave an overview of different infrastructure systems designed to manage excess water.
“Blue belts ... are essentially places where water can go to buy the system time, so the water is not going directly into the sewers and exceeding that amount,” Lopez explained. “They divert rainwater away from the sewers, provide retention and can create ecological
areas as they retain that water.”
A “cloudburst” is a sudden, heavy downpour in a short amount of time. To manage those, Lopez said, the DEP uses sewer pipes
and underground storage tanks.
“When the water comes down, it goes right into the storage area, not into the homes,” he said.
The commissioner also emphasized the city’s Unified Stormwater Rule, which increased the amount of stormwater that new and redeveloped properties must manage on-site.
“We really find that water we have challenges managing is not from usage, it’s from storms,” Lopez said.
He also recommended steps homeowners can take to protect their properties.
“Converted basements are something we always tell folks to be mindful of,” he said, adding that residents should make sure points of entry are clear and accessible. He suggested those with pitch driveways install a barrier system.
“There’s inflatable barrier systems that you can use, or other manner of barrier systems just to prevent the water from getting in, to buy some time so the water can recede,” Lopez said.
He added, “That sometimes can be combined with a sump pump, and really just making sure that there’s as much seal as possible to keep any water from coming in.”
Lopez also advised putting flood sensors near windows, drains, or anywhere that might allow water in easily.
And he emphasized the importance of having proper homeowner’s insurance, recommending American Water Resources.
“Making sure that you don’t have an incident before you have coverage is very important,” he said. “Just make sure you have the appropriate coverage that you’re comfortable with.” Q
Child’s assault in Forest Park sparks discussion on reopening closed road Push for Freedom Drive access grows
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Some members of Community Board 9 on Tuesday evening made it clear they would like to see more police patrolling Freedom Drive in Forest Park — and officials seem to agree.
“One of the most pressing issues we have now is Freedom Drive,” City Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) said during the meeting at Queens Borough Hall. “We’ve had discussions about it, especially with what happened over by Victory Field, on that closed road, with that little girl who is scarred for life now, as are her parents.”
“Thank you to the DA and the precinct for that quick arrest, and he will be prosecuted,” Ariola said. “But it shouldn’t have happened. ... We’ll be working with [the city Department of Transportation] and Parks to make sure that Freedom Drive does once and for all become open.”
The roadway, near Victory Field, has for years been closed to vehicular traffic.
Capt. Pratima Maldonado, the commanding officer of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct, said the opening of Freedom Drive would make it easier for officers to patrol there, as the NYPD cannot easily access the area due to the road’s closure.
“Looking at the data for traffic, there’s only been maybe three accidents around that area in the last five, six years,” Maldonado said. “So it’s not a traffic issue. And if you guys could get it open, it
The incident in question involved an 11-year-old girl riding her bike in Victory Field last month. She was kidnapped and fondled before her father scared off the alleged perpetrator, Teddy Moussignac, who is incarcerated and due back in court on June 13, according to the Queens District Attorney’s Office.
would help us to patrol the area better,” Maldonado said.
Another board member said there is interest in having more NYPD presence within Forest Park overall, citing instances of seeing people engaging in sexual acts and doing drugs there.
“We are trying to get more officers in there,” Maldonado said, adding that she wants to have a meeting with the Parks Department on the issue in the next week or two. She suggested the possibility of coordinating patrols with Park Police.
In other news, Maldonado said the biggest crime trend in the area is grand larceny auto and that the precinct plans to do another steering wheel lock giveaway.
A board member suggested a thief could cut the steering wheel in half to get around the lock, and Maldonado quipped, “I think the 102 could get there before they do that.”
Capt. Pratima Maldonado, the commanding officer of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct, spoke to Community Board 9 on Tuesday night about area crime.
Alfonso Lopez, the Queens commissioner for the Department of Environmental Protection, gave residents a crash course on flooding at Community Board 10’s monthly meeting last Thursday. SCREENSHOTVIAYOUTUBE/CB10
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Area artists and children participate in the Woodhaven Mural Project Residents beautify the neighborhood
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
A community-driven art project is transforming blank walls into vibrant canvases of hope and unity. The Woodhaven Mural Project, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is breathing new life into area underpasses, including in Richmond Hill, inviting students and residents to paint their dreams and celebrate the diverse spirit of the neighborhood.
What began as a simple suggestion to beautify the underpasses at a community meeting has blossomed into a grassroots initiative that is turning urban spaces into colorful testaments of community pride.
“I said something at the November Woodhaven Residents Block Association meeting,” said Jennifer Lambert, the artist spearheading the project. “And this gentleman, Neil Giannelli, who lives a couple blocks behind me, came up to me after the meeting and introduced himself and said he’d like to try to walk down this road with me.”
Lambert, who hails from Vermont but has lived in the area some call “Rich-Haven” for nearly 14 years, continued, “We set a date and a goal, and we’re just overwhelmed with the enthusiasm from our community. Their enthusiasm and desire to participate is what’s really driving us right now.”
The group plans to transform four under-
passes in Woodhaven and Richmond Hill, a total of seven walls. Area elected officials, residents and schools have gotten in on the action, dedicating money, time and resources to the murals.
City Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) worked with the nearby Home Depot to secure donations of supplies, helped the group work through issues with the Department of Citywide Administrative Services and connected Lambert and Giannelli with an insurance sponsor.
State Sen Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) helped connect them with the Center for Employment Opportunities, which has helped clean, prepare and prime the first mural site, and applied clear sealer after.
“They have been our greatest political advocates,” Lambert said of Ariola and Addabbo.
The Park Lane South underpass, between 98th and 101st streets, was the first to be transformed, with a mural called “Kids Make Neighborhoods” during Memorial Day weekend. Children from PS 60, Lambert said, braved the rainy weather on a field trip to help paint daffodils. Other members of the community got in on the action, too.
On Friday, June 20, at 5 p.m., the Woodhaven Mural Project will have a dedication ceremony at the “Kids Make Neighborhoods” site,
Scaturro supermarket set to close this July
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Scaturro, a grocery store at 84-39 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven, will close on July 26 after decades of service.
Store management told the Chronicle the closure is due to a combination of lower sales and retail theft, the latter of which has long been an issue for the Woodhaven mainstay. Though the location last year had started implementing preventative measures, such as hiring a security guard, the issue persisted.
After decades of serving the community, Scaturro, at 84-39 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven, will close in July. PHOTOBYKRISTENGUGLIELMO/FILE
That, combined with the possibility of another grocery store opening next door, at the now-vacant building at 84-33 Jamaica Ave., the former location of Lewis of Woodhaven and Gem Stores, factored into the decision to close Scaturro.
The building owners of both locations, Scaturro and the empty building, could not be reached for comment on what the future holds for the properties.
Online, Woodhaven residents of both
where the group will celebrate the completion of that mural and detail its next venture.
Its next mural project, at 91st Avenue, between 98th and 101st streets, is slated for October and called “Wings of Rich-Haven.”
Anyone interested in supporting the project can do so through gofund.me/4f7b4df5.
Those interested in participating can visit tinyurl.com/WMPFB to learn more.
“I really do believe that we are very, very lucky to have what we have in this neighborhood,” Lambert said, adding that the project is
meant to address quality of life concerns.
“I mean, we walk underneath the underpass every day to school, and it’s loud and it’s dirty, and people dump stuff. It’s a little gnarly at nighttime,” she said. “It was a canvas calling my name.”
Lambert said the project is giving people a chance to come together and talk, and all while bonding through art.
“I’ve met so many beautiful, warm people of all ages and groups through this, and that’s what art can do,” she said. Q
HB man springs into action to save in-law
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
A Howard Beach resident is alive today thanks to the swift actions of his son-in-law, who performed CPR after the 73-year-old collapsed.
John Biordi, former owner of Biordi’s Italian American Deli in South Ozone Park, was at his Howard Beach home on June 7 when he suddenly became unresponsive.
Phil Stazzone, a soccer coach at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy and Biordi’s son-in-law, jumped into action.
today and the past lamented the grocery store’s closure.
“I hope this isn’t so,” one resident wrote on the Project Woodhaven Facebook page. “I shop there all the time and don’t want to see the workers lose their jobs.
“One of the last stores from the old days,” another said. “Not looking forward to shopping in the other supermarkets on the avenue.” Q
He began performing CPR and provided oxygen via Biordi’s nearby tank, as emergency responders from both the FDNY and West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department were dispatched.
“I asked if he wanted me to take over,” said family friend PJ Marcel, who lives nearby and arrived within moments of being alerted to the situations. Marcel later published the story on his Facebook page, Howard Beach Dads.
“[Stazzone] said, ‘PJ, I’m not losing him,” Marcel recalled.
Stazzone, who had no formal CPR training, continued chest compressions until
John Biordi. COURTESYPHOTOS
Biordi began gasping for air. EMS transported Biordi to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. He was in critical but stable condition as of Tuesday, and likely would have died without Stazzone’s quick thinking.
Stazzone said the situation was a blur, and he acted on instincts. Since then, he’s been hailed as a hero, with people approaching him, asking where his cape is.
“People keep asking me, ‘Well, how do you know how to do CPR?’ And I said, ‘Because I watch a lot of ‘Chicago Fire,’” he said. Q
Our Lady of Grace Catholic Academy soccer coach Phil Stazzone, left, last week performed life-saving CPR on his father-in-law,
The Woodhaven Mural Project seeks to reimagine the empty spaces around the neighborhood through art and community effort. The project is spearheaded by Jennifer Lambert, right. PHOTOSBYMAYLEE,ABOVE,ANDEDDIETORRES
Former leader of Ozone Parkcivic group reflects on his tenure and future Caruana, longtime ONCA prez, retires
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Joe Caruana, the longtime president of the Our Neighbors Civic Association of Ozone Park, retired from the group last Wednesday. Throughout his tenure, Caruana dedicated his time to the betterment of the community.
Caruana, a certified public accountant, said he was first approached about the civic presidency by a representative of then-Councilmember Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park), informing him that the group’s president at the time, Sal Simonetti, was leaving.
“I had never even heard of the organization at the time,” Caruana told the Chronicle. “But, you know, I’m all for the community and I hate seeing things go dormant, so I said, ‘I’ll try.’”
He started attending the group’s meetings shortly after he was approached.
“They had very few people coming, like maybe 10 to 14 people,” Caruana said.
Caruana said that he beat his opponent in his election to the Our Neighbors Civic presidency in a vote of 26-6.
“It was pretty amazing, because I’m the son of immigrants,” he said. He was sworn in by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) in September 2018.
“It was surreal,” Caruana said. After he was installed as ONCA president,
Caruana tried to build up the membership.
Now, the group has about 130 members.
“Growing up, my family and friends would say to me, ‘Don’t expect too much out of life,’” Caruana said. “They’d say, ‘Your parents are not educated.’ So it’s pretty cool.”
Among Caruana’s favorite memories as president occurred in August 2024, when he received a call from the Mayor’s Office.
“They asked me about the meeting, about the agenda,” Caruana said. “And then the next thing I know, the Mayor’s Office tells me the mayor is coming to swear me in.”
Caruana arrived early to the group’s September 2024 meeting, as he usually does, and spotted a car there.
“This guy gets out with the biggest gun I’ve ever seen underneath his suit jacket,” Caruana said. “And we go into the place, and he looks at the back and says, ‘Is there a rear entrance in case we have to move the asset?’ Like in a movie.”
tions, including the work he did with the late Lew Simon in helping those in need during the pandemic.
“He would help me get food from Food Bank NYC and Fresh Direct, and we would do food pantries,” Caruana said. “It was incredible, just to see the relief on people’s faces.”
During Caruana’s last meeting, on June 4, various elected officials presented him with proclamations for his work, and the new board was installed. Photos from the group’s Facebook page show a packed house and high spirits.
Though he’s retired from ONCA, Caruana plans to continue his civic work in other means, such as the Caruana Foundation, which aims to fight food insecurity and increase financial literacy, and the Golden Age Club of Ozone Park.
The meeting started as normal, save for Caruana wearing a suit instead of his usual attire — and then Mayor Adams walked in.
“It was unbelievable,” Caruana said, adding
that Adams just observed the meeting and gave a small speech about the importance of civic work, before swearing in Caruana for his last term as ONCA president.
Other highlights of Caruana’s tenure included holiday-themed events and food distribu-
ONCA’s new president is Jeremy Bucaria. Asked if he had advice for the new leader, Caruana said, “You have to be really thick-skinned, because the better you do, the more people are going to hate you and be jealous of you.” He continued, “So you have to be able to take the praise, as well as the criticism, and just do the best you can. Treat everybody the same, whether you like them or not.” Q
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Joe Caruana, president of the Our Neighbors Civic Association of Ozone Park, retired last Wednesday. ONCAPHOTO/FACEBOOK
EDITORIAL AGEP
Vote anyone but Mamdani
As early voting begins in the Democratic mayoral primary in just two days, the Queens Chronicle is making no endorsement. It is instead making an anti-endorsement. Anyone but Mamdani.
That’s it. None of the candidates thrill us, but any of the serious Democratic contenders would b e better than pie-in-the-sky Socialist state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. Between the impossible promises and the anti-Semitism, he simply cannot be elected.
Early voting begins June 14, and Primary Day is June 24. It’s a ranked-choice vote, so our recommendation is simple: Choose the candidates you want in whatever order you want. Just don’t choose Mamdani. Not first, not last, not at all.
He is a candidate promising the world, but without any of the means to deliver. Freeze the rent! his campaign shouts. As if landlords don’t need to pay to maintain or upgrade their buildings. Freeze the rent and freeze is what you’ll do in the winter, as HVAC systems fail. Hope you
can handle those stairs, too; elevator repairs are expensive. The mayor doesn’t set rents, anyway.
Nor does he control the MTA, yet Mamdani promises fare-free buses. Really? The MTA can’t pay for things as it is, and it’s supposed to give up billions of dollars in annual revenue? Mamdani, of course, would just raise taxes to make up for it.
Yet, as great British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher said, “The problem with socialism is that eventually you run out of other people’s money.” A young guy such as Mamdani, all of 33 and with no experience running even a decentsized office, has no appreciation for that. If he were elected, along with a leftist City Council, we could see a fiscal crisis like that of 1975.
He’s also an anti-Semite. He refuses to say Israel should exist as a Jewish state. He backs the Boycott, Divest and Sanctions movement, designed to economically destroy Israel. He won’t condemn the Holocaust. And so on.
Mamdani can stay where he is, where he can do minimal harm. He must never be mayor.
Medical Aid in Dying needed
While we understand the trepidation surrounding the Medical Aid in Dying Act, we hope those who oppose or fear the bill can be assuaged in their concerns by its many safeguards.
The measure, which would allow for assisted suicide only for people with terminal illnesses who are determined to have only six months, or less, to live, has passed the state Legislature and is now on the desk of Gov. Hochul, who must sign or veto it. She should sign it, to give those who have control of their faculties, but not of their deteriorating physical condition, the ability to determine how and when their lives will end. That is not some kind of affront to decency. It’s the opposite: an enhancement of dignity.
Patients would have to request the drugs that would hasten their death orally and in writing. Two doctors would have to concur. Two witnesses would have to sign the request — and they could not be relatives, or anyone who would benefit from the person’s estate, or anyone employed by a facility caring for the person, or any of a host of other things, to prevent abuse of the law. Also, no doctor or facility would be forced to provide the drugs. Opponents worry that someone who is depressed could utilize the law. But it would not allow that. The text also notes that 10 states and the District of Columbia have similar laws, and “There has not been a single substantiated incident of coercion or abuse” in the 30 years since the first one passed. The bill would give those with no hope a choice, and it should be enacted.
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Beware AI scams
Dear Editor:
As senior citizens with grandchildren, we are urging all grandparents to be aware of the latest scam criminals cooked up to rob them of thousands of dollars.
The high-tech scam uses AI, artificial intelligence, to find your grandchildren’s voices on TikTok and then uses voice cloning software to make panicked calls pretending to be your grandchild, claiming to have been arrested or hurt and urgently needing bail money or medical funds.
Suffolk County Police Commissioner Kevin Catalina confirmed that his department has been seeing a growing number of these cases and urges other counties to be on alert in their areas.
We also advise families to establish a “safe word” or code in case of emergencies to use to confirm the person calling. We urge all readers to pass this information on to all friends and family members.
Thomas and Constance Dowd Oakland Gardens
Pass e-bike regulations
Dear Editor:
Re your June 5 editorial “Two out of three traffic laws”:
I agree that something must be done to rein in “rogue e-bikers” who put us at risk.
I was nearly hit by an e-bike on a Kew Gardens Hills sidewalk and narrowly escaped injury. Others weren’t so lucky. E-bikes and e-scooters caused 35 deaths and injured over 500 pedestrians in NYC from 2023 to 2024, according to Google AI Overview.
To bolster public safety, the City Council must pass Priscilla’s Law, named for an e-bike fatality victim, which requires all E-bikes and E-scooters to be registered and display license plates for legal accountability. (I would add an insurance requirement to that measure.) The bill has 28 co-sponsors, which should ensure passage by a majority of the Council’s 51 members.
But that can happen only if Council Speaker Adrienne Adams allows the bill to reach the floor for a vote. Why would she hesitate? Perhaps because some City Council members oppose it, including Democrats Tiffany Cabán of Queens and Lincoln Restler of Brooklyn (New York Post, May 31). They claim the bill is a racist response that targets food delivery drivers of color, many of whom are also illegal immigrants. Nonsense.
Priscilla’s Law reflects realism, not racism. Reckless e-bike riders who put pedestrians in harm’s way by violating traffic laws must be prosecuted, regardless of their race, ethnicity or immigration status.
Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills
Build statue of Shulman
Dear Editor:
In respect to Claire Shulman (1926-2020), who was our distinguished Queens borough president, we as residents of Queens should posthumously present another honor to her. In connection to the 100th anniversary of her birth in 2026 next year, a statue of her should be erected by where she worked as president; i.e., Queens Borough Hall.
A perfect spot to erect such a statue would be on the corner of Queens Boulevard and Union Turnpike, two main arteries of pedestrian and vehicular traffic. A statue once stood at this spot, but was removed because it did not repre-
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
sent honor for Queens. Ms. Shulman clearly represented honor for Queens by her caring dedication and love for all of us.
Donovan Richards Jr., as our current Queens borough president, who was mentored by Ms. Shulman, along with her children, Dr. Ellen Baker and Dr. Lawrence Shulman, should put forth the efforts necessary to commission a statue for her.
Thank you.
David E. Amsterdam
Flushing
Remake Downtown Jamaica
Dear Editor:
Re “The fall of businesses in Downtown Jam,” June 5, multiple editions:
The chaos in Jamaica results primarily from the area being a transit hub.
In the 1950s and 1960s — the good old days — Jamaica had a large Gertz store, a Loews Valencia theater, a big Sachs furniture store and other stores almost too numerous to count.
Now the entire area is a jungle of vendors selling goods out of boxes and small stores with a variety of household stuff.
The solution is to make the whole area into an outdoor venue similar to the markets in African and South American countries. Tear down the decrepit buildings still standing and organize the traffic patterns. The area has to be totally redesigned, especially with the enormous residential development in progress.
Ray Hackinson Ozone Park
Daddy’s little girl
Dear Editor:
Dad, you are the best thing that ever happened to me. You taught me how to play the piano, you taught me how to dance. You are music, you are song, you are inspiration, you are magic, you are light. Love you forever, Dad! Happy Father’s Day.
Eva Julietta Tortora Manhattan
Stop cervical cancer
Dear Editor:
Cervical cancer can be prevented! Screening tests can find the cells that lead to cancer. These cells can then be removed. This prevents cancer! Screening also helps to find cervical cancer early, when it may be easier to treat. Screening options include the Pap test, which has been used since the 1940s and is credited with greatly reducing deaths from cervical cancer. The HPV test was added after scientists discovered that HPV causes most cervical cancers. Both tests help to prevent cervical cancer or find it early.
Whichever test you choose, it’s important to be screened regularly for cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is most common among those who have never been screened and those who rarely get screened (waiting five years or more between screenings).
If you have a cervix, start screening at age 21 and get screened every three years until age 65, or as often as prescribed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor after age 65 to see if you should still be screened. Stay up to date with
screening and follow up with your provider if your screening tests show anything abnormal.
If you don’t have insurance, the Cancer Services Program of Queens, located at NewYorkPresbyterian Hospital Queens, provides free cervical cancer screening to those aged 40 and older who qualify.
Make a plan in 2025 to call your healthcare provider to make sure you are up to date with your cervical cancer screening. You can also call us at (718) 670-1561 to see if you qualify for a free cervical cancer screening.
Roseline Ogbonna Program Coordinator Cancer Services Program of Queens Fresh Meadows
Paladino vs. Bill of Rights
Dear Editor:
I have read that my City Council person, Vickie Paladino, has called for the deportation of state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani. Ms. Paladino seems to be repeating her pattern of violent imagery both in her speech and in her campaign ads.
Ms. Paladino does not appreciate how lucky, and yes, privileged she is to have been born in the United States of America. With that luck and privilege there should be respect for the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
Mr. Mamdani is a citizen of the United States of America. He is not subject to deportation for his ideas and expression of such ideas by speech. If there can be calls and possibly actions for Mr. Mamdani’s deportation, anyone can wind up in that very frightening situation.
Andrea Harris Bayside
RFK’s new vax attack
Dear Editor:
I am appalled and outraged and hope others will call their senators and congressional leaders, for Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has fired all of his 17 advisory board members who plan vaccinations.
RFK Jr. is definitely not fit for his job. That advisory board is important for protection against disease outbreaks and renewal of Covid vaccinations.
Also, that “big beautiful bill” should be called the ugly monster since it will no longer offer loans for medical school. Thus there will be a shortage of medical school graduates and primary care doctors, and the aging baby boomers will be in trouble. Please notify your congressional members immediately to avoid this dastardly abomination.
Cynthia Groopman Little Neck
Dear USA: We’re sorry
Dear Editor:
As a progressive, I would like to apologize to the United States for the mess we created.
We ignored the white men and their overdoses and suicides. We didn’t get the message about the infrastructure bill. We screwed up Roe when Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg didn’t retire. We took out the circular firing squad ... continued on next page
i s ho s ting our 6 th evening of : is hosting our 6th of: You are invited to join us on Friday, June 27, 2025 7: 00 - 10 : 00PM 7:00 - 10:00PM Behind t he Rector y Behind the Rectory (Weather permitting) Rain Date 7/11/2025 5 025
T icket Pr ice : Ticket Price: $ 65.00 $65.00 p e r p e r s on per person
E ach g uest w ill receive 5 ciga rs a nd a n Each guest will receive 5 cigars and an A ssor t ment of Bourbon, Scot ches, a nd ot her Spir it s Assortment of Scotches, and other Spirits Din ner Catered by: L en ny ’s Cla m Ba r Dinner Catered Lenny’s Clam Bar Fe atur ing : BBQ C hic ken, S te ak, Rib s, Hot Do g s, C hee se burge r s Featuring: BBQ Chicken, Steak, Ribs, Hot Dogs, Cheeseburgers & C or n on the C ob ! Corn on Cob!
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
continued from previous page
Sen. Bernie Sanders twice, which gave us President Trump twice. We couldn’t prevent Citizens United, and we weren’t smart enough to hold onto the Senate and allow tax cuts for the rich.
We’re sorry we let you down. We will do better to save Social Security, like means testing it. We will save cuts to vets instead of laying them off and not calling them losers. We are sorry if you felt insulted in any way — we all need to stop driving with the horn; we have so much in common.
We love our kids and parent the same way; we all want no child to be hungry and no one to worry about being sick or a young mother not having prenatal care. We all want the law to be the same for all. Maybe a maximum wage or capital gains treated the same as labor generated? Don’t we all want affordable housing and corporate tax breaks like Madison Square Garden has?
We have more in common that not, but we are truly sorry for not being clearer in any way at all. Please let’s embrace each other. We are not the enemy. Hope our mistakes are forgivable with no malice intended.
Stewart Frimer Forest Hills
Free hostages, get aid
Dear Editor:
Israel has intercepted a Gaza-bound ship carrying a symbolic amount of humanitarian aid. The dozen passengers included the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. They posted videos calling themselves “kidnapped.”
They should be advised that before they will be allowed to distribute aid to Gaza, they must first convince Hamas to release the real kidnap victims, namely, the Israeli hostages hidden by Hamas from the outside world for over 600 days.
Theodore Sheskin Flushing
Chattanooga Choo Choo?
Dear Editor:
I just heard Bono on the Joe Rogan podcast describe the destruction of USAID by Elon Musk and the current administration as vandalism done with glee. I’ve heard Bill Gates describe the vaporization of USAID as the “world’s richest man killing the world’s poorest children.”
Now, we are also witnessing the unanesthetized vivisection of the presidential pardon prerogative. The recent list of recipients of presidential pardons sounds like the roll call for an advanced class of fraudsters, insurrectionists and tax evaders.
One man’s pardon application, that of Paul Walczak, a tax evader, noted that his mother personally donated a million dollars to a Trump fundraising dinner, as well as raising millions of dollars from others for the president. The president just granted clemency to Lawrence Duran, who was serving a 50-year prison sentence “for ripping off tens of millions of dollars from Medicare.”
It sounds as if someone in power is actively aiding and abetting crime, waste, and fraud. The only thing that these rogues are required to do to board the Pardon Express is sing the president’s favorite song in his favorite key: “Pardon me, sir; is this the Chattanooga Choo Choo? Track 29 ... ” I’m waiting in line and whatever the fare — is fine.
Debra Michlewitz Bayside
Pay-to-play pardons
Dear Editor:
I joked that P. Diddy should plead guilty, so President Trump could pardon him. And now Trump is considering doing just that. I’m sure he will appoint him as executive of oil imports. Baby oil imports, of course.
Todd and Julie Chrisley were convicted in 2022 and were found guilty of defrauding banks to obtain personal loans worth over $36 million to fund a lavish lifestyle. Todd was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison, and Julie was sentenced to seven years. Of course, Trump just pardoned them.
Paul Walczak is a Florida-based nursing home executive who failed to pay more than $10 million in taxes, instead using the withheld taxes to enrich himself, according to an April statement from the U.S. Department of Justice. Walczak was sentenced to 18 months in prison and two years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay more than $4 million in restitution. Trump pardoned him, too, just weeks after Walczak’s mother, Elizabeth Fago, attended a $1 million-per-person fundraiser at Mar-a-Lago.
Who else? Larry Hoover. Hoover was serving multiple life sentences in federal prison as leader of one of the largest and most violent drug syndicates in the United States, operating in 35 states. He was convicted of state and federal charges including murder and use of a firearm while trafficking drugs. He sold over $100 million of drugs a year in the city of Chicago alone. His gang was responsible for countless murders. They supported their drug territories with ruthless violence. So of course Trump deems him an honorable member of society who should have his sentence commuted and be released from prison.
There is no mystery. Pay Trump and you get a pardon.
Robert LaRosa Sr. Whitestone
No Trump military parade
Dear Editor:
It is obscene that Congress is planning to cut medical and food aid programs for those in need while planning to spend over $40 million on a purposeless military/birthday parade for the president. However, if this nation wanted to show its true appreciation for those who serve in our armed forces, another option would have been to reallocate the parade budget to veterans’ services, where it can be well used.
Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens
List of primary election races
continued from page 2
Queens Civil Court judge
First District
Democrats will take their pick between attorney Juliette Noor-Haji and Thomas Wright-Fernandez, the principal law clerk to Queens state Supreme Court Justice Jessica Earle-Gargan, for first district Civil Court judge.
Queens Civil Court judge
Second District
The Democrats vying for Civil Court judge in the second district are civil rights attorneys Julie Milner and Eve Cho Guillergan.
City Council District 19
Democrats Benjamin Chou and Alexander Caruso are competing for the chance to face off against incumbent Councilwoman Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) in the fall. The former is an active-duty firefighter based in Douglaston, and the latter is a substitute teacher from Bayside.
City Council District 21
The Democratic race to replace termlimited Councilman Francisco Moya (D-Corona) includes David Aiken, a member of the electrical workers’ union, community development leader Shanel Thomas-Henry, Erycka Montoya, the
Council’s deputy director of intergovernmental affairs, and District Leader Yanna Henriquez.
City Council District 25
Incumbent Councilman Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) will square off against retired NYPD Sgt. Ricardo Pacheco. Pacheco made unsuccessful primary bids for Council in 2023 and Assembly last year.
City Council District 28
Running to succeed Speaker Adams in Southeast Queens are Latoya LeGrand, a constituent services representative to Assemblywoman Vivian Cook (D-Jamaica); Ty Hankerson, Adams’ district chief of staff; Romeo Hitlall, district governor for the Brooklyn and Queens Lions Club; Ruben Wills, a former councilman for the area; and community activist Japneet Singh.
City Council District 30
The race to replace term-limited Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) includes civic leader Paul Pogozelski, Holden’s budget director Phil Wong and longtime United Federation of Teachers strategist Dermot Smyth. The winner of the Democratic primary will face Republican Alicia Vaichunas, the incumbent’s deputy chief of staff, in November. Q
Early voting to start June 14
With the primary election less than two weeks away, it’s certainly not too early to make plans to vote, or even to cast your ballot.
New Yorkers can vote as soon as Saturday, June 14. Early voting sites will be open every day from then until June 22, and they will be closed June 23, the day before Election Day.
The polls will operate at different times throughout the nine-day window. Their hours are as follows:
• Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
• Sunday, June 15, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
Constituents ages 55 and older are welcome to attend a free bowling event for seniors on June 23, hosted by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) at Bowl 360, at 98-18 Rockaway Blvd. in Ozone Park, from noon to 2 p.m.
The event aims to promote social engagement and healthy activity among senior community members. Bowling is a low-impact activity that keeps seniors active without too much strain.
Those interested must live in Addabbo’s district and RSVP ahead of time by calling his office at (718) 738-1111.
• Monday, June 16, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
• Tuesday, June 17, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.;
• Wednesday, June 18, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.;
• Thursday, June 19, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
• Friday, June 20, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.;
• Saturday, June 21, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.;
• Sunday, June 22, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Voters must cast their ballots at their designated early voting location, which may differ from their Election Day polling place.
Those wishing to vote early may learn where at findmypollsite.vote.nyc. Q — Stephanie G. Meditz
Participants must wear sneakers. Free parking is available, but limited.
“I am happy to host this event as a way to bring our senior community together for a day of fun, friendship, and recreation,” Addabbo said in a statement. “I believe activities like bowling not only promote physical activity but also strengthen community bonds. I look forward to seeing many of our wonderful seniors enjoying a great afternoon. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Bowl 360 for the complimentary use of their space.” Q — Kristen Guglielmo
Your city budget and election votes sought
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
The New York City Civic Engagement Commission last Tuesday announced two campaigns that strive to empower New Yorkers to make change in their communities through democratic participation.
The People’s Money campaign is the name for the annual citywide participatory budgeting program, in which New Yorkers decide how a portion of the city’s budget will be spent.
Residents choose how to spend public money in partnership with communitybased organizations and civic leaders. The process is open to all New Yorkers ages 11 and up, regardless of immigration status.
The People’s Money has four phases — idea generation, borough assemblies, citywide voting and implemented projects. The process is in the voting phase right now, and residents have until June 25 to cast their ballots online or in-person.
For more information or to cast a vote, visit participate.nyc.gov.
The second campaign, Ranked Choice Voting, spreads awareness about how voters can rank up to five candidates in order
of preference for primary and special local office elections.
All first-choice votes are counted. If a candidate receives more than 50 percent of first-choice votes, that candidate wins. If no candidate earns more than half of firstchoice votes, then counting will continue in rounds. At the end of each round, the last-place candidate is eliminated and voters who chose that candidate then have their vote counted for their next choice.
The Civic Engagement Commission has posted advertisements, including voting instructions in Spanish, as part of the group’s Voter Language Assistance program.
By promoting the ranked-choice voting process to multicultural communities, the campaign seeks to boost overall rankedchoice voting participation numbers.
Primary day is June 24, and early voting is from June 14 to 22. The Board of Elections must receive all voter registration forms and absentee ballot requests by June 14.
To request a ballot, find your poll site, check your registration status or view a sample ballot, visit vote.nyc. Q
An unexpected drop-off
It’s not that kind of drive-in.
Police confirmed that on Monday, June 9, at 5:13 p.m., a 60-year-old unidentified female driving a 2024 Jeep SUV failed to navigate the roadway and collided with the Howard Park Drive-In Cleaners, at 159-26 Cross Bay Blvd. in Howard Beach.
Photos shared with the Chronicle showed
the business’ glass walls shattered, with shards along the concrete.
Police said the driver sustained minor injuries but refused medical treatment on the scene. No other injuries were reported. The cleaners were open for business as usual by Tuesday morning, an employee confirmed. — Kristen Guglielmo
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City’s anti-broker fee law kicks in for tenants
FARE Act aims to make whoever hired
by Samantha Maldonado THE CITY
This article was originally published on June 10 7:33 p.m. EDT by THE CITY
Tenants are preparing to say farewell to brokers’ fees as a law takes effect Wednesday requiring whomever hired the agent to pay the fee.
The law, known as the Fairness in Apartment Rental Expenses Act — which the City Council passed with a veto-proof majority in November — states that a broker who publishes a listing for a property for rent is to be paid by the landlord and stipulates the disclosure of all fees tenants pay up front.
Landlords often hire brokers to find tenants to rent open apartments, and tenants can also hire brokers to help find them suitable space. But in New York City and Boston, it’s been the custom that even if tenants find an apartment themselves, they may be on the hook to pay the broker fee, which has no cap but typically equals about a month or two of the monthly rent.
Now, under the FARE Act, tenants should only pay the fee if they hire the brokers themselves.
The city Department of Consumer and Worker Protection can fine brokers and companies that violate the law by charging or even requesting a fee. The fines start at $750 for first-time offenders, $1,800 for second offenses and $2,000 thereafter.
Renters can file complaints for illegal activity by calling 311 or visiting the DCWP website.
Councilmember Chi Ossé (D-Brooklyn), who sponsored the FARE Act, encouraged New Yorkers to “screenshot, snitch, report,” as he put it in a recent video.
“Become a community enforcer of the FARE Act.”
The FARE Act is meant to make moving more affordable for people trying to find housing in the city’s tight market. The average upfront cost of moving in New York City — including the first month’s rent, security deposit and broker’s fee — hovered near $13,000 in 2024, StreetEasy data showed. The company estimated tenants on average can expect to pay closer to $7,500 up front without a broker’s fee.
The city of New York — and its taxpayers — may also save money by avoiding brokers’ fees, which amounted to about $141 million through the One Shot Deal, an emergency rental assistance program, and rental vouchers over the past two fiscal years, according to the Independent Budget Office. (DSS paid over $1.34 billion on the voucher program alone over those two years.)
Legal wrangling not over
One wrinkle that could change the FARE Act in the future hinges on a lawsuit filed in December by the Real Estate Board of New York and some brokerage groups. The city of New York asked to dismiss the suit.
The judge presiding over the case on Tuesday denied REBNY’s request for an injunction but did not dismiss the case, which adds some uncertainty moving forward.
“We’re disappointed that the preliminary injunction in our federal lawsuit has been denied and that the FARE Act will go into effect,” REBNY President James Whelan said in a statement. “New Yorkers will soon realize the negative impacts of the FARE Act when listings become scarce, and rents rise. We will continue to liti-
a broker pay the
fee, rather than it falling on renters
Councilmember Chi Ossé (D-Brookyn) speaks at a City Hall rally about investing $2 billion affordable housing, March 11, 2024. A Sunset Park building advertises rental units, May 10, 2022.
PHOTOSBYBENFRACTENBERG/THECITY
gate this case as well as explore our avenues for appeal.”
Still, REBNY advised its members about how to comply, and renters in the midst of apartment hunts are cautiously optimistic about what the new law might mean for their wallets.
Tabby Greene, a data analyst in Flatbush, Brooklyn, who must move out of her apartment by July 31 found a listing for a studio apartment in Bensonhurst on Zillow for $1,500 per month. When she reached out to the broker to ask for more information, she learned there would be a broker’s fee equivalent to one month’s rent.
When Greene pushed back, the broker told her the rent would increase between $125 to $200 per month if she didn’t want to pay the fee.
“You have the option for me to represent you and pay a one time broker fee or pay a forever broker fee,” the broker wrote to Greene via text message. “Is [sic] just stupid politics.”
Greene, who visited the apartment and submitted an application,
Aided suicide bill before gov.
A bill to allow “medical aid in dying” is headed to Gov. Hochul after passing the state Senate on Monday. It had been approved by the Assembly on April 29.
The measure would permit assisted suicide in New York State for adult, mentally competent patients with terminal illnesses who are deemed to have six months or less to live. It is meant to alleviate suffering. Patients would be allowed to request medication to end their lives from their doctors. Two doctors would have to approve the request, which would be made orally and in writing. Also, two people
would have to witness the request, and neither could be someone who is related to the patient or would be entitled to any of his or her estate. Several other restrictions on who the witnesses could be would apply.
The bill’s text says that 10 other states and Washington, DC, have similar laws, and asserts that they have not had the negative impacts critics predicted.
The Governor’s Office did not immediately respond when asked if she will sign the bill. Published reports said she has not indicated her intentions. Q
— Peter C. Mastrosimone
recently checked the listing again and saw the apartment’s rent rose to $1,850 — a 23 percent increase that puts it out of her budget. (The listing description still indicates a one-month broker’s fee.) So, she’ll keep looking.
“As long as the FARE Act goes through, I really don’t see why I would be paying for a broker’s fee,” she said. “If I don’t hire them, what am I paying you for?”
Brokers who vehemently opposed the FARE Act warned rents would rise because landlords would bake the brokers’ fees into rents. That worries one tenant, who lives in the heart of Queens and said she’s nervous about being priced out.
For three years, the tenant has been dealing with poor conditions in her apartment and has a difficult relationship with the landlord.
“We stayed here because we knew we couldn’t incur the cost of another move,” said the woman, who requested anonymity given her sensitive living situation. “My mentality going to the next apartment search, in hoping we don’t
have to pay a broker’s fee is, if it’s not the perfect place, we can move next year — instead of, guess we have to stay here for a while.”
An analysis from StreetEasy found properties that dropped the broker fee in April raised rents 5.3 percent — compared to 4.6 percent increases in the rest of the market, where fees remained. That means landlords aren’t baking in the full cost of the broker fee into the baseline rent.
In 2024, no-fee rentals were about 4.2 percent more expensive on average than similar apartments charging a broker fee.
“Asking rents are primarily driven by market conditions, rather than solely by property managers’ costs,” said Kenny Lee, an economist at StreetEasy. “The demand and supply dynamics are really the core drivers of the asking rent, on top of whatever the cost that the landlords have to cover.” Q
THE CITY (www.thecity.nyc) is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to hardhitting reporting that serves the people of New York.
The Great Woodhaven Yard Sale
The Great Woodhaven Yard Sale has returned for another year!
Organized by the Woodhaven Residents Block Association, the event sees dozens of homes in the neighborhood host simultaneous yard sales.
This year’s event spans two Saturdays. It started last week, on June 7, and even though there was rain, high household concentration areas saw plenty of foot traffic, according to TGWYS’s Facebook page.
On June 14, households again will participate in the yard sale. Shoppers can
find a variety of clothing, furniture, technology, books and other household wares. For a full map of participating households, visit tinyurl.com/5n74eu3.
According to the organizers, if there is a 35 percent or greater chance of rain at 9 p.m. the evening before the event, as determined by the National Weather Service, the sale will be called off. Participating households will also be notified by email the night before, and a notice will be posted on the event’s Facebook page at the above link. Q \ — Kristen Guglielmo
Congrats CLASS OF 2025
Wishing you continued success and abundant opportunities in all of your future endeavors!
The Callahan Family, the Board of Trustees, and the Faculty, Staff, and Administration
Recognizing with Special Distinction:
The School of Dental Sciences on its 100% CDCA pass rate
The School of Nursing on its 96% first-time NCLEX pass rate
Mayor says e-bike cap is a safety issue; workers fear it is too vague Deliveristas cry foul on 15 mph limits
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
A group that represents bicycle delivery workers is suspicious of both the timing and intent of announcements last week that the city wants to cap e-bike speeds at 15 miles per hour.
Mayor Adams on June 4 announced the 15 mph measure among multiple policies that he said are geared toward traffic and pedestrian safety. The following day Councilmen Keith Powers (D-Manhattan) announced legislation he is sponsoring that would codify the 15 mph cap, with language including things such as civil fines of up to $50 for violations.
But Ligia Guallpa, executive director of the Workers Justice Project, said that will only exacerbate a recent crackdown in which she said bike workers, particularly people of color and immigrants, have faced a blitz of criminal summonses.
“The 15-mile per hour speed limit is deeply concerning and misguided,” Guallpa told the Chronicle. “It also is an insult to deliveristas. This is just going to be a tool to increase the number of criminal summonses and create a pipeline for ticketing and possible deportation ... It’s part of his plan to deliver for [President] Trump, labeling hardworking immigrants as criminals for possi-
ty,” Powers said in his press release. “Many New Yorkers are concerned about the reckless behavior we’ve seen from e-bike operators that haven’t been properly regulated, and it’s time to ensure that e-bikes can’t speed down the street, causing chaos.”
Neither Powers nor the Mayor’s Office responded to requests for specifics on how it would be enforced, or what criteria would be used to verify speed.
The city Department of Transportation is planning a hearing on the mayor’s directive on July 14. Adams also said in his statement that he wants the Council to pass what he called “our long-proposed legislation” to strengthen delivery worker safety.
Guallpa remained unimpressed, accusing Adams of scapegoating deliveristas.
The city is pushing for a 15-mph speed limit on e-bikes and other electric vehicles. But delivery workers who use them are worried about more than summonses.
ble deportation.”
“I have heard, over and over again, from New Yorkers about how their safety — and the safety of their children — has been put at risk due to speeding e-bikes and e-scooters, and today, our administration is saying enough is enough,” Adams said in a press release. “We are implementing a new 15-mile-per-hour speed limit for e-bikes and
PHOTOBYMICHAELGANNON
e-scooters that will make our streets safer.”
He said it would place e-bikes, electric scooters and pedal-assist commercial bicycles at the same limit as stand-up scooters.
It would not apply to regular bicycles.
“Biking is a crucial tool to tackle the climate crisis and help New Yorkers get around the city, but we also must address the well-documented concerns about safe-
She said first that the bikes do not come equipped with speedometers that the workers can glance at, and that the stops and any subsequent tickets would result from an individual police officer’s judgement and discretion.
“It will require deliveristas and the NYPD to guess,” she said.
Guallpa said a better way to reduce speeding is hold delivery companies accountable “to make sure they don’t set up unrealistic time frames for deliveries that cannot be delivered in 15 minutes.” Q
Ramos supporting Cuomo State senator doesn’t suspend her own campaign
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
With just days to go before the start of early mayoral voting and her campaign running out of steam and money, state Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) last Friday endorsed former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the June 24 primary for the Democratic nomination.
Ramos, who had launched pointed attacks on Cuomo, is not suspending her campaign.
Despite hitting him this spring on his “mental acuity,” the senator told The New York Times that Cuomo “is the best positioned right now to protect the city.”
The formal announcement was made at a joint appearance Friday morning at the District Council of Carpenters headquarters in Manhattan.
“Senator Ramos and I are both proud Queens kids. With that comes a Queens attitude that is both tough and protective of our families and neighbors, and by extension we are protective of all New Yorkers.
“I entered this race because working New Yorkers deserve better than Eric Adams,” Ramos said in a statement on Cuomo’s campaign website. “And while I’m staying in this race to keep pushing for higher wages, more housing, and a stronger voice for working people, I know that I am fighting for something bigger than myself.
“Senator Ramos is a fighter for working New Yorkers, and we are all better off for her leadership,” Cuomo said in a press release from his campaign early that afternoon. “As Chair of the Labor Committee, she worked with my gubernatorial office to protect domestic workers. Together, Senator Ramos and I successfully fought to give long-sought rights and protections to farm workers, to crack down on wage theft in all of its forms, and to enact the Excluded Workers Act.
“With [President] Trump threatening to bulldoze New York and take us backward, we need someone in City Hall who knows how to hold the line and deliver under pressure. I’ve worked with Andrew Cuomo to raise wages, protect immigrant workers, and pass major labor reforms, and I know he can go toeto-toe with Trump when it counts. This is about governing, not posturing. The stakes are high, and I’m supporting Andrew because I believe he’s the one best positioned right now to protect this city.”
Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows) supported Ramos’ decision on X Friday.
“Sen. @jessicaramosqns is a staunch advo-
Mayoral candidate and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Friday accepted the endorsement of candidate and state Sen. Jessica Ramos.
PHOTOBYMIKEGROLL/NYS/FLICKR/FILE,LEFT,ANDSCREEN SHOTVIAJESSICARAMOSFORNYCMAYOR/YOUTUBE/FILE
cate for the Queens community, and I applaud her endorsement of @andrewcuomo for New York City Mayor,” he posted. “Now is the time for us to come together as a party and nominate the strongest candidate for our city’s future.”
Councilwoman Tiffany Cabán (D-Astoria), however, reposted a comment from Ramos in March in which the senator called him “a corrupt bully with a history of alleged sexual misconduct” and made other jabs.
“Well this didn’t age well huh ...” Cabán said on X. Q
Editor Kristen Guglielmo contributed to this story.
No trash pickup on Juneteenth
Thursday, June 19, is Juneteenth, a holiday that celebrates Black liberation.
Expect art, educational workshops, live music and local vendors and more at festivals and other events throughout the city.
Do not expect trash, curbside compost and recycling collection during the holiday that recently became official, according to the Department of Sanitation.
Residents who normally receive Thursday trash or curbside compost collection should place their material at the curb that evening for pickup beginning Friday, June 20.
Any paper, metal, glass, plastic and cartons that would typically be recycled that day should be put on the curb on Wednesday, June 25 for collection on Thursday, June 26.
The DSNY said it appreciates the patience of residents as it plans to collect the expected backlog of material.
For questions about services from the department and holiday schedules, contact 311 or visit nyc.gov/sanitation. Q
— Naeisha Rose
Residents discuss applying for a one-day permit, amid some doubts Vote held for open street day on Austin
by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor
A sliver of Austin Street, from 71st Avenue to 71st Road, could close to traffic one day in the future.
Community Board 6 at its June 11 meeting was originally set to vote on “Austin Day,” an event that would have closed the stretch to cars on certain days in the summer and fall. But the vote was called off after the city Department of Transportation said last week that only one permit could be granted for the year, Pedro Rodriguez of the group Neighbors for a Safer Austin Street told the Chronicle.
Citing too-narrow sidewalks, congested roadways and traffic accidents injuring pedestrians and cyclists, the group is pushing for an Open Street along that stretch on weekends between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. from July until Halloween.
“Many of us moved to the neighborhood because of Austin Street and are concerned about all the issues we see on it,” Rodriguez told the Chronicle in an email. “From street safety issues and ADA concerns to its vitality, given the closed storefronts, and the shift from small businesses to larger chains, we have many concerns.”
The DOT had denied the group’s application for the Open Street program earlier this year, he explained, but the agency still offered
to work with its members. He said the DOT discussed helping them secure a permit to close the stretch for Austin Day on the last Sunday of each month from July until Halloween. CB 6’s Transportation Committee at its last meeting recommended that the full board support their application.
The vote became “moot” after the group was told the event could only be one day, Rodriguez said. But, he continued, Neighbors for a Safer Austin Street met last week and determined a new tentative date for Austin Day that awaits confirmation.
Rodriguez, also a member of CB 6, said the group “would love to have” the board’s approval, but he did not believe it was required for the permit.
“We still hope that, even with this one-day event, we can demonstrate to people what an Open Street on Austin Street would look like, and hopefully, we can reapply for a full Open Street next year,” Rodriguez said.
A DOT spokesperson said in a statement that while the agency supports the group’s effort to engage the community and assess public interest with a one-day event, it cannot approve or deny the application. Permits for events of that nature are issued by the Street Activity Permit Office, the spokesperson said.
A City Hall spokesperson said granting the permit would require board approval. SAPO
Hoping to reapply for an Open Street next year, some residents are pushing to hold a one-day event closing Austin Street to cars from 71st Avenue to 71st Road.
grants a variety of permits, such as for block parties and street events, and the permitting process depends on the type.
“We truly believe an open street will be a massive success for the businesses and the community, and the businesses and communi-
ty seem to agree,” Rodriguez said. “So it is a shame that the city is making us jump through so many hoops.”
But Leslie Brown, president of the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce, disputed that, stating that businesses on the stretch are not in favor of the plan. Austin Street is home to many of the chamber’s members.
“How can a non-incorporated group of residents ... close off a part of a commercial street in a business district on one of the busiest days of the week?” Brown said, adding that the proposed block is “smack in the middle” of Austin Street.
From the perspective of business owners trying to attract customers, she cited concerns about the group claiming Austin Street is not safe and worried what the Austin Day event would “promote.”
“I feel that they’re trying a new way to get Austin Street closed off to cars,” Brown said.
Rodriguez said at the last Transportation Committee meeting that the group reached out to about 25 businesses on the street that were in favor of the proposal.
State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) on Wednesday wrote a letter to CB 6 opposing the proposed closure, citing concerns about disrupting businesses, removing parking spots and a “lack of specific planning,” leading to more questions. Q
Adriana AntonielloArchbishop Molloy High School with partial Award
Juliana AntonielloArchbishop Molloy High School with partial Award
Gabriella CirabisiArchbishop Molloy High School
Diana CovarrubiasSt. Vincent Ferrer
Christopher DalbeyMonsignor McClancy Memorial High School
Micah DavisArchbishop Molloy High School with full award
Anthony DelioteArchbishop Molloy High School
Christian DeMasoMonsignor McClancy Memorial High School
Robert DiMinoArchbishop Molloy High School
Lucas DinallyArchbishop Molloy High School with partial Award
Maleyah EcksteinArchbishop Molloy High School
Theresa Esposito - ValedictorianThe Mary Louis Academy
Emily HuntSt. Francis Preparatory School
Emily KeyserArchbishop Molloy High School
Nicholas LeoCathedral Preparatory School with partial Award
Ava LeoneArchbishop Molloy High School
Giuliana MalinconicoArchbishop Molloy High School
Teresa MalinconicoArchbishop Molloy High School
Ethan MartinezArchbishop Molloy High School
Jake MohanArchbishop Molloy High School
Sarea NaraineArchbishop Molloy High School
Anneliese NazarioThe Mary Louis Academy
Connor OrtegaHS for Construction Trades, Engineering and Architecture
Lucas ParralesArchbishop Molloy High School with partial Award
Angelina PerezThe Mary Louis Academy
Mario RussoCharminade High School with partial Award
Julia Semianow - SalutatorianArchbishop Molloy High School with partial Award
Rani SunderArchbishop Molloy High School with partial Award
Julianna VargasArchbishop Molloy High School with half Award
Abigail VictorianoArchbishop Molloy High School
Liam VillalonaArchbishop Molloy High School
Gabriella VincentiArchbishop Molloy High School
PHOTOBYSTEPHANIEG.MEDITZ
SEQ co-op struggles to stay above water
The Mitchell-Lama has unpaid $17M bill and a high insurance increase
by Naeisha Rose Editor
About 75 people showed up to a rally to raise awareness about problems at the Rochdale Village co-op on May 28.
Initially, 200 people were set to turn out but due to inclement weather the number trickled down, said Japneet Singh, the organizer of the rally and City Council candidate vying to replace outgoing Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) in District 28.
Adams is term-limited and running to become mayor.
The Mitchell-Lama co-op is home to 25,000 people, some on fixed incomes, who pay maintenance fees ranging from $1,000 to $1,800 a month, said Singh. Residents owe the city $17.7 million in past-due water bills, along with interest, and they are also facing a possible 22.3 percent hike in monthly costs in January, which some say the state could raise to 57 percent over the next couple of years. There is also an unbalanced budget and insurance costs for the complex have increased.
“They would be severely impacted if this were to become their reality,” said Singh to the Chronicle about the residents’ rate hike.
“Like other Mitchell-Lama developments across New York City, Rochdale Village is facing severe financial challenges from accumulating building capital and maintenance costs that threaten affordability for residents,” said Adams via email. “While Mitchell-Lama is a state program and these developments will require supportive interventions from state government to resolve their challenges, I have fought together with my City Council colleagues to secure funding and assistance that supports Rochdale Village and all developments. Preserving affordability for Rochdale Village and all our Mitchell-Lama developments is a top priority, which is why we continue to work towards solutions.”
Adams has also proposed and secured an agreement to establish a joint city and state Mitchell-Lama Action Group to advance solutions.
Her office said she hopes there will be a meeting before the end of the year.
“There should be 100 people on the board.”
— John Ferretti
When asked what he would do to address the problems at Rochdale Village if elected, Singh said, “I want to audit Mitchell-Lamas and make sure they are running in compliance ... Another thing is a monthly town hall, where we can talk about these things ... We can put our counterparts’ in Albany feet to the fire.”
While he was holding a rally, Adams’ office said the speaker allocated funds for buses that sent residents to Albany where they lobbied for Rochdale Village that same day. She also fought for $80 million in funds toward housing development and preservation investments, including for Mitchell-Lama as part of the Council’s City for All housing plan.
Jean Castro, a member of the co-op’s board, was one of the people who went on the trip to Albany.
“We have more bills than money that is being taken in,” Castro said to the Chronicle. “The increase is needed, but it won’t be 57 percent.”
Castro said members of the board are working with the state, along with state Sen. James Sanders Jr. (D-South Ozone Park) and Assemblywoman Vivian Cook (D-Jamaica), who were also in Albany.
“We went to the Governor’s Office and spoke to the staff,” said Castro, who blames inflation and the Covid-19 pandemic partly for the co-ops’ problems. “Insurance increased from $4 million to $11 million. We had to pay carrying charges, which left the water bill unpaid, but we are working on that. We met with the water company, so we are going to be OK.”
She also said that the co-op’s failure to balance the budget, as well, has only been a problem the past three years, after the pandemic.
“Every two years we have to have a balanced budget for the state,” said Castro.
Castro would like the maintenance charge hike to be less than 20 percent.
She said that carrying charges were frozen during Covid, which had an impact on paying the water bill.
“Management has done its very best while working with the board,” said Castro.
John Ferretti, a resident who has a podcast called “Keep Rochdale Village Affordable,” said another underlying problem is that there are 15 volunteers on the board who meet once a month and they don’t have the bandwidth to oversee the management team that operates daily serving 25,000 people.
Ferretti said there are about 20 buildings
with around 364 units each.
“There should be 100 people on the board,” said Ferretti. “We have a fiduciary responsibility. This board and this management company have no concern for their responsibility to the residents and to maintain affordability.”
Ferretti believes the state has abandoned Rochdale Village. It expects a balanced budget every two years from people on a fixed income, especially after a crisis like Covid-19, while billionaires get bailouts.
“Her budget priorities are tax breaks for the rich,” he said of Gov. Hochul. There are “all types of subsidies for businesses that happen to be her donor.”
He also believes that the co-op having predominantly Black residents plays a role, and if Mitchell-Lama had predominantly white residents the state would have stepped in earlier before the problems compounded. Q
Gun buyback event June 14 in Jamaica
by Naeisha Rose Editor
During Gun Violence Awareness Month the office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz is hosting, along with state Attorney General Tish James and the NYPD, its 11th gun buyback program at the Greater Allen AME Cathedral in Jamaica.
Members of the public are urged to surrender operable and nonoperable weapons Saturday, June 14, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., to receive a bank card worth up to $500, according to Katz’s office. People may turn in their guns anonymously with no questions asked.
A total of 543 firearms have been recovered under Katz’s administration.
The event will be held at the Shekinah Chapel, located at 111-54 Merrick Blvd.
People with operable handguns or semiauto-
matic rifles will get $500; those with ghost guns or 3D-printed guns will get $200; individuals with operable rifles or shotguns will get $75; and those with airguns, nonoperable rifles or shotguns and imitation pistols will get $25.
The firearms must be placed in a plastic or paper bag or in a shoebox. If transporting the weapon in a car, it must be in a trunk. People may surrender as many guns as they wish, but the payment limit is two ghost guns or three traditional firearms per person.
Payment will be on-site after the gun has been screened. Guns owned by active or retired law enforcement officers or licensed gun dealers will not be accepted. People may call 311 for more information.
Gun buyback events such as this one provide New Yorkers with an opportunity to help get unwanted firearms off our streets and out of our
communities, said James to the Chronicle via email.
“During Gun Violence Awareness Month, we all must recommit ourselves to being part of the solution against gun violence,” she continued. “My office is proud to join District Attorney Katz and co-sponsor this gun buyback event. Every gun turned in is a step in the right direction to help keep Queens safe.”
The church is in the NYPD’s Queens South coverage area, where there have been 26 shooting victims and 15 shooting incidents this year to date. The data was last updated for the week of June 2 to June 8.
Earlier this month, the NYPD announced that from January 2025 through May 2025, New York City experienced the lowest number of shootings and murders in recorded history and set the record for the lowest number of
shootings and murders in May.
In the time frame mentioned above, New York City recorded 264 shootings and 112 murders, compared to the previous record low of 267 shootings in 2018 and 113 murders in 2014 and 2017. In May 2025 alone, New York City recorded 54 shootings and 18 murders. The previous record low was set in 2019, when New York City recorded 61 shootings and 19 murders.
The NYPD said it has a Summer Violence Reduction Plan, which includes having 1,500 uniformed officers focused on high-priority crime areas in 70 summer deployment zones.
“We will not let up,” said NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch in a statement. “Our summer violence reduction plan is bold and aggressive and designed to continue driving the same historic safety gains.” Q
Rochdale Village has seen better days. Recently, the co-op has found itself behind on its water bills and budget due to Covid-19 and inflation, according to Jean Castro, left, a board member of the co-op. Resident John Ferretti says the co-op needs more volunteers to better oversee operations at the housing complex.
Ridgewood student held by ICE
Pols call for his release, DHS denies the detention
by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week detained a junior from Ridgewood’s Grover Cleveland High School, officials here say.
The detention took place while the student attended a legal hearing to seek asylum, according to Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. In her statement, she emphasized that the incident did not occur in a school and urged parents to keep their children in the classroom.
“This young person should be returning home from school today, surrounded by family — not facing detention,” AvilesRamos said. “Our commitment to all students, including our newest New Yorkers, remains unwavering.
“Our policies have not changed: schools are and will continue to be safe, welcoming spaces for every child.”
Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin denied that ICE made any such arrest. She said in a statement that a 19-year-old “illegal alien” who tried to grab the weapon of a Federal Protective Service officer was arrested June 6.
able” for federal officials to apprehend minors in courthouses and separate them from their families.
A spokesperson for Assemblymember Claire Valdez (D-Sunnyside) told the Chronicle that the student is being detained in Texas. Valdez, too, called for his release on X, stating that his family had not heard from him in days.
“Abducting students is vile fascism,” the post reads.
Reports of the arrest prompted other officials to criticize federal enforcement.
“This is not justice — this is condoned family separation by the Trump Administration,” Councilmember Jennifer Gutiérrez (D-Brooklyn, Queens) said in a statement. “Apprehending anyone — let alone minors in courthouses, when they are following our laws, our protocols, is injustifiable.”
Donate blood and save a life
The New York Blood Center is calling on all eligible donors to make an appointment to help prevent a blood shortage. The summer months see a rise in emergency room visits and transfusion needs, but less frequent blood donations.
Information on how to donate blood or schedule a drive is available at nybc. org.
Upcoming blood drives in South Queens include:
• Knights of Columbus Council 197, from 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, June 14, at 94-04 Linden Blvd. in Ozone Park;
• Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 15, in the basement of 95-30 118 St. in Richmond Hill;
• Sikh Officers Association, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, in the basement of 95-30 118 St. in Richmond Hill; and
State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Mike Gianaris (D-Astoria) on X called for the student’s release, calling it “unaccept-
She said the DHS cannot give further details without the person’s name, and a spokesperson echoed her statement when asked if the teen arrested could have been in high school. McLaughlin also claimed the media is “running away with another fabricated sob story.”
“ICE and the rest of this authoritarian regime in Washington couldn’t care less that we’re a city and nation of laws,” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said on X Sunday. “But we won’t sit idly by and let our families be torn apart.”
Reports of the arrest broke the same day a slew of riotous protests began in California in response to federal immigration raids. President Trump on Sunday deployed the National Guard to quell the demonstrations. Q
• Howard Beach Community, from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, in the cafeteria of the old St. Helen Catholic Academy, at 83-09 157 Ave. in Howard Beach. Q
— Kristen Guglielmo
A junior at Grover Cleveland High School was detained by ICE while attending a hearing to seek asylum, according to Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. FILEPHOTO
Carol Maraj, mom of Nicki Minaj, kick starts conflict resolution initiative SAFE Youth program launches in Queens
by Naeisha Rose Editor
It was an evening of laughter, music, dance, cheers and backflips at the launch of the SAFE Youth Initiative at the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Queens in South Richmond Hill on May 30.
Silence enveloped the room as Carol Maraj, the mother or rap superstar Nicki Minaj and founder of SAFE, a youth conflict resolution program, told an audience of more than 100 youngsters that over 800,000 crimes were reported in schools in one year.
“We have to do something about it,” said Maraj. “The youths are dying.”
About 857,000 violent incidents and 479,000 other illegal occurrences were recorded by public schools from 2021 to 2022, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
Earlier this month, Gun Violence Awareness Month, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch told the New York Post that youth violence has skyrocketed in the Big Apple.
In the June 3 Post article, the top cop said there was an increase in busts of kids under the age of 18 by 136 percent between 2018 and 2024, reported the Post. The number of underage shooters went up 192 percent and the number of juvenile victims of gun violence spiked by 81 percent.
Ahead of the launch, Maraj told the Chroni-
cle on May 29 that she started putting together the program, which stands for Survey and Secure Safety, Analyze and Approach with Caution, Friendly Engagement and Execute Peacefully, when she heard the statistics.
“Youth are killing each other,” said Maraj. “They have to know the worth of another human being. If a person understands their worth, then they would know the worth of another person. It is just not enough to say, ‘love one another and it is not good to kill.’”
The purpose of the Youth SAFE initiative is
One overDose can tAkE a lIfE.
to teach kids how to defuse situations if they are in an altercation or are witness to one.
“Have a conversation instead of engaging in violence,” said Maraj. “Learn how to control one’s emotions.”
Throughout her speech at the Boys & Girls Club, located at 110-04 Atlantic Ave., Maraj told the youths they are not diamonds in the rough, because unlike the jewel, their lives are priceless.
“We are sick and tired of early death,” Maraj told the youths.
The SAFE Youth founder also said that committing violence, especially gun violence, could result in spending up to 20 years in prison.
“Life interrupted,” said Maraj. “We are sick and tired of our children not living out their dreams and their purpose in life ... You before me are America’s future. The world’s future. You are the scientists. You are the nurses. But somehow, violence gets in the way.”
Earlier in the evening, the youths ate pizza, listened to music by a deejay and watched steps, poems and a skit from kids from Philadelphia who were a part of the Full Force youth summer camp led by Jonathan Walker of the Carol Maraj Foundation. The summer camp is a part of Walker’s JL Walker Project nonprofit.
“This initiative today ... I’m going to infuse this program in my summer camp in Philadelphia,” said Walker. He also said that Maraj intends to bring the program all over the United States and to her home country of Trinidad, and eventually throughout the Caribbean.
The Full Force skit depicted a man accusing his son’s friend of stealing from him and escalating an argument into a physical altercation, in which the adult attacked the youngster. The skit ended with friends of the youth pulling off the adult and the man’s wife saying she had borrowed the money all along.
In a question-and-answer discussion follow-
continued on page 27
Most fatal overdoses happen at home. What you know can save a life. Help keep our communities safe by learning about overdose prevention and reaching out to those at risk. For emotional support or substance use services, call or text 988 or visit nyc.gov/988.
To learn more about services in NYC, visit nyc.gov/alcoholanddrugs.
Carol Maraj, front center, the mother of rap star Nicki Minaj, launched an anti-youth violence program at the Boys & Girls Club in South Richmond Hill. PHOTOBYNAEISHAROSE
Groups back state super speeder bills
Device keeps vehicles at legal limits
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
Back on June 2, city officials gathered in Manhattan to call on the state Legislature to pass bills that would mandate speed-limiting devices in the vehicles of drivers who rack up more than their share of speeding tickets.
Last Thursday, Transportation Alternatives and Families for Safe Streets released a report to make their case that Queens residents have a vested interest in supporting and passing what is being called “Super Speeder” legislation.
The bills would target drivers who accumulate 11 or more points on their driving records during a 24-month period, or receive six speed camera or red-light camera tickets during a 12-month span.
The device, linked to a GPS system, would not allow a vehicle to exceed the legal speed limit for its location.
The study, which can be viewed online at transalt.org/reports, paints a devastating picture of the dangers from super speeders in the borough.
TA said in a press release that its data comes less than eight months after Amanda Servedio, 36, was killed in a hit-and-run crash during a police chase in Astoria. The organization states that the driver had tallied 80 red light and school zone speed camera tickets in two years.
“Why was that vehicle still allowed to go above the speed limit when we have access to simple technology that can prevent recidivist speeders from speeding?” asked Frank Servedio, Amanda’s father, in the groups’ press release. “Albany can’t wait another year to pass the Stop Super Speeders bill.”
Among their findings about the top five super speeders in Queens:
• They received 643 school zone speeding tickets in 2024 alone, or a ticket every 14 hours;
• they received 92 percent of their tickets in Queens;
Carol Maraj
continued from page 26
ing the skit, some of the teens in the audience said the man shouldn’t have jumped to conclusions and should have spoken to the youth instead of escalating the altercation into a physical fight.
Zion Denton, 16, told the Chronicle he definitely learned something from the skit, which he can use outside the club.
“Resolve your problems with not just your emotions,” said Zion. “You can articulate different ways to create a better outcome. This has real-world applications ... I learned to stop and think before I proceed
• each received more than 100 school zone speeding tickets in 2024 and in just the first four months of 2025, have already each received some two dozen school zone speeding tickets; and
• they collectively have paid $75,000 in fines on their vehicles and still owe nearly another $50,000.
All that, TA said, while most drivers who receive a school zone ticket or two do not receive another.
The most frequent intersections where the top scofflaws are caught include Queens Boulevard and 72nd Street in Woodside; the Clearview Expressway and 56th Avenue in Auburndale; College Point Boulevard and 25th Road in College Point; 69th Street and 62nd Road in Middle Village; and Queens Boulevard and 77th Avenue in Forest Hills.
The groups assert that the top five super speeders in the borough have gotten between 124 and 231 tickets apiece since the beginning of 2024.
“License suspensions are not enough — 75 percent of drivers with suspended licenses drive anyway,” the press release said.
“Vehicles with 16 speeding violations are twice as likely to be involved in a crash that leads to a fatality or serious injury, and vehicles with 30 speeding violations are more than 50 times more likely.
State Sen. Andrew Gounardes (D-Brooklyn) is the primary sponsor of S.4045; Senate co-sponsors from Queens include Sens. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), Mike Gianaris (D-Astoria), John Liu (D-Bayside) and Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights).
Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher (D-Brooklyn), the primary sponsor of companion bill A.2299, has co-sponsors that include Queens members Andrew Hevesi (D-Forest Hills), Jessica González-Rojas (D-East Elmhurst), Steven Raga (D-Maspeth), Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), Claire Valdez (D-Sunnyside) and Clyde Vanel (D-Queens Village). Q
with further action.”
Linzzy Tavarez, 13, told the Chronicle that she learned that there are better solutions than violence.
“I think [the skit] encourages me to resort to anything other than violence,” said Linzzy.
Jahel Andrea Kelty, 15, and Bari Ice, 15, of Jamaica, showed off their dance and musical production skills, respectively, that they learned at Metro Queens. Along with coming up with beats, Bari also rapped about safety.
At the end of the event, Maraj shared swag bags with material about conflict resolution, and she thanked her staff and then the Boys & Girls Club for allowing her to launch her program at their center. Q
The Mayor's Office of Media & Entertainment Presents
LIVING THE DREAM
“I
by Michael Gannon Editor
Twenty-five members of the FDNY who work or live in Queens were among those honored at City Hall Plaza on June 4 at the department’s annual Medal Day ceremony. All photos and citations are from the official Medal Day book. All incidents occurred in 2024.
Apartment fire
Responding to an apartment fire in Flushing on Jan. 11, the inside team from Ladder 129 hadn’t even reached the burning unit before Capt. Paul Agruso and firefighters Raed Khan — now a lieutenant — and Dominick Nuzzi encountered heavy heat and smoke in the hallway.
Kahn, from Hollis, contended with not only multiple door locks but an angle iron before they got in.
Splitting up for the search in advancing flames, Khan came cross an unconscious man in a hallway with severe injuries. With the hallway now no longer a safe place to await help, Khan got the man out to a stairwell and medical assistance. He was awarded the Company Officers Association Medal for actions “in the highest traditions of the FDNY and Ladder 129.”
Child trapped
On Jan. 13, Ladder Co. 125 arrived at a house fire on 73rd Avenue in Flushing just after 2 a.m. when Battalion Chief Robert Wind got confirmation of an en-route radio dispatch — a woman was screaming that her daughter still was inside.
Crawling up the staircase, Wind was met by NYPD officers in retreat, overcome by heat and smoke. After sweeping two rooms, Wind faced two bedrooms on the other side of the main blaze.
Advancing on his stomach without cover of a hose line, Wind entered a room with flames already rolling across the ceiling. Reaching under a bed he felt a child’s arm. He took her out as Engine Co. 315 arrived with hoses to clear their path. Wind handed the girl to firefighters ascending the staircase, who took her outside. Wind received the Emily Trevor Mary B. Warren Medal for heroism under extraordinary danger.
Solo search
Ladder Co. 127 was returning from a call the morning of Feb. 8 when it was dispatched to a house fire in Briarwood.
Firefighter Joseph Pansini set up the tower ladder and entered via a second floor window. He heard a radio call reporting heavy fire venting from the first-floor rear windows.
Heading downstairs toward the back, Pansini found the fire had extended to the kitchen and was advancing, already running across the ceiling above him. After searching the kitchen and feeling the heat through his bunker gear, he set out alone for the dining room. Groping his way through a maze of furniture, he found an
FDNY, CITY HONOR
unconscious man.
On the way out he met Capt. Frank Macchia, who assisted in the removal. Out in an alley, Pansini administered first aid. He received the Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal for outstanding courage.
PHOTOSCOURTESYFDNY
Adapting on the fly
Squad 288 arrived just in time to a Ridgewood house fire on Feb. 19.
Firefighters were greeted by screams from people trapped on the roof over the front porch. Ladder Co. 140 had just removed a victim via portable ladder when it fell. Firefighter Anthony Rivas from 288 lifted the ladder back and began climbing.
Seeing two panicked children looking ready to jump, Rivas grabbed a small boy and took him down before returning for a girl. By then Firefighter Dane Martin had erected another ladder to rescue others.
While firefighters Lawrence Richard, Patrick Conway and John McCoy of 288 had added a second hose line to one from Ladder 149, Lt. Joshua Wiener of 288 saw flames break out of another part of the building. He had Rivas run a third line from Engine 292, which they took inside. Reuniting, including on forays up to the second floor, Squad 288 stayed until all members were low on air. The unit was awarded the Firefighter Thomas R. Elasser Memorial Medal.
Debilitating conditions
Responding to a fire in an East Elmhurst apartment building on March 30, Lt. Kevin Kirrane’s team from Ladder Co. 154 found the fire on the sixth floor. They knew hose lines still were not yet ready as Kirrane directed Firefighter Ryan Boyle to take the door.
Kirrane and Firefighter Radford Arrindell crawled through clutter and increasingly debilitating conditions when the news got worse — Kirrane was told the outside team would be delayed in reaching them because of civilians using the fire escape.
Kirrane ordered Arrindell to use his portable water extinguisher to hold back the flames so that he could get through to continue searching. He found a victim clinging to life on the floor and the team evacuated him before going back to finish the search.
For placing himself at unusual personal
Queens firefighters, medics honored
risk, Kirrane was awarded the Mayor Fiorello H. LaGuardia Medal.
Baptism by fire
Probationary Firefighter Thomas Canzoneri had been with Ladder Co. 134 in Far Rockaway for two months before going to the first fire of his career April 28. He made it count.
Arriving at the house, the team of Lt. Michael Pisciotta, Firefighter Patrick Goldberg and Canzoneri was greeted by fleeing residents and an off-duty firefighter telling them a civilian was trapped on the third floor.
Making their way upstairs, they found the fire had burned through a door, making it impossible to contain it until hoses arrived. Then Firefighter Benjamin Schiavi of Ladder 134 radioed that he had seen a man by a window, gasping for air.
Pisciotti and Canzoneri felt their way down the hallway to the front room where the proby found the disoriented man on the floor.
By that time the fire had cut off any chance of escaping down the hallway. Schiavi raised 134’s aerial ladder to the window, after which he and Canzoneri got the man down to the street. Canzoneri received the Probationary Firefighter Thomas A. Wylie Medal, named for the Whitestone resident who died in the line of duty in 1995, one week into his career.
Teamwork
Lt. Eric Schaming of Engine Co. 295 was calculating the math on the way to a house fire in Whitestone on June 9. The area was isolated, meaning help could be delayed. It was near the East River, and they had been warned at roll call that wind conditions could prove troublesome.
Arriving on scene, he did have to summon help for the large house with heavy fire throughout. It was, in fact, wind-aided and had spread to fencing and small structures to the rear of the building, increasing chances of spreading to other properties. A man was reported missing, though he eventually would be found safe outside.
Adding to that, Firefighters John Kuper, Richard Kenney Jr. and Angel Cotto Jr. were assigned to 295 that day from their regular posts. Cotto and Ibrahim Mangane were probationary firefighters.
But the team made an aggressive attack,
including in the foyer and dining room with 25-foot ceilings, before fighting its way to the second floor to clear the way for the search teams. They also confined the fire to the original property as if they had worked together for years. Engine 295 received the Lt. James Curran New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation Medal.
Painstaking detail
The first early-morning blaze on July 4 was a car fire in South Richmond Hill that spread to another vehicle. The second was a nearby home where several people, including two young children, were asleep and where two people were seriously hurt. Forensic evidence and a preliminary probe that included video footage led the teams from the Bureau of Fire Investigation to determine the fires were both deliberately set and likely connected. Over the following weeks, Fire Marshals Matthew Rocco of the Citywide North Command and David Leibowitz of the Special Investigations Unit conducted an exhaustive canvas for video from the neighborhood. They were able to identify a person of interest, while uncovering video of the setting of a third and unreported vehicle fire earlier that morning, and footage recording him returning to his home. The ensuing prosecution was successful. Leibowitz and Rocco received the Deputy Commissioner Christine R. Godek Medal for work by a fire marshal.
Rockaways water rescue
EMTs Saverio Bosco Jr. and Andrew Ochtera were on routine patrol at Beach 96th Street in the Rockaways in the late afternoon of July 7 when they were alerted to multiple swimmers caught in a rip current along the Beach 91st Street jetty. Knowing swimmers were in danger from the incoming tide and heavy surf, Bosco navigated their rescue vehicle along the crowded beach while Ochtera sprinted to the jetty. He arrived to find victims being slammed into the rocks by the incoming waves.
With lifeguards tending to two victims, he climbed into the water to help a female victim and a good Samaritan who had swum out to help, with the woman now unable to get up the rocks by herself.
Capt. James Ellison of Squad 252 in Brooklyn, who came to help visiting the
FF Joseph Pansini
Battalion Chief Robert Wind
Lt. Kevin Kirrane
Fire Marshals David Leibowitz, left, and Matthew Rocco
EMTs Saverio Bosco Jr., left, and Andrew Ochtera
Lt. Raed Khan
Firefighters Dane Martin, left, Laurence Richard, Patrick Conway, Anthony Rivas, Lt. Joshua Wiener and FF John McCoy of Squad 288.
FF Thomas Canzoneri
Lt. Eric Schaming, left, FF Angel Cotto Jr., FF Ibrahim Mangane and FF John Kuper of Engine Co. 295. Missing: FF Richard Kenney Jr.
BOROUGH’S BRAVEST in annual ceremony at City Hall Plaza
beach while off duty, helped Ochtera secure the woman to a backboard for evacuation.
Bosco, who had been coordinating the arrival and delivery of rescue tools and material, headed to the water as Ochtera climbed down to support another man who was clinging to the rocks. Bosco assisted Ochtera and Ellison with securing their patients and getting them to waiting ambulances. Ochtera and Bosco were awarded the Yadira Arroyo Medal, named for an EMT killed in the line of duty in 2017.
Uncommon valor ...
A house fire in Woodside on Aug. 4 trapped residents, seriously injured a woman and a 7-year-old girl and hospitalized two firefighters — and resulted in honors for three of the Bravest.
Tower Ladder Co. 163 had to access the
second floor to conduct a search. Firefighter Bryan Garcia, carrying an extension ladder, climbed a setback at the rear of the house and, teaming with a member of Rescue 4, climbed to a second-story bedroom window.
Crawling through the house he found an unconscious child. Protecting his small charge with his bunker coat, Garcia got the child outside and began medical treatment until EMS personnel arrived to take over.
Firefighters Daniel Centonze and others from Rescue 4 crawled their way to the second floor up a burning staircase. Centonze found an unconscious woman. Bringing her out he met Firefighter Al Francis. They got her to the stairs with Centonze shielding her as he carried her out.
Firefighter John Hlavacek of Rescue 4 reached a victim at a third-story window via a ladder he borrowed from an adjacent property. Once on the ground the victim told Hlavacek three people could be trapped on the second floor. Hlavacek repositioned his ladder to a window Centonze had ventilated. He found an unconscious man, and Francis again assisted with getting the victim outside.
Garcia received the Hispanic Society 23rd Street Fire Medal of Valor. Centonze received the Thomas A. Kenny Memorial Medal. Hlavacek got the Thomas F. Dougherty Medal.
Kayak rescue Ladder Co. 173 was responding to a “person in the water” report on Aug. 25 when the rig was flagged down by a fisherman midspan on the Joseph P. Addabbo Memorial Bridge.
A father and his young son were in kayaks, with the father holding a rope tossed to him by the fisherman, as well as his son’s kayak, which was taking on water.
With a rescue boat still on the way, Firefighter Scott Hamelburg, now a lieutenant, suggested the fastest way to help them would be to lower him — a former lifeguard and an avid surfer — by rope.
Once in the water he put a flotation device on the child, lashed the boats together to keep them from separating and held onto the father’s kayak until a rescue boat arrived. Hamelburg received the Firefighter David J. DeFranco Medal, given for water rescues.
Dog attack
Paramedic Amanda Czaja of Woodside and her partner, Paramedic Philip Dacey, were in their ambulance on Oct. 6 finishing paperwork after a call when a panicked woman got their attention.
Told a woman was being mauled by a dog down the block, Czaja and Dacey investigat-
Paramedic Amanda Czaja
ed. The found her pinned in a corner while the dog attacked and she screamed for help.
Czaja grabbed the dog by its collar and was bitten numerous times, getting several deep lacerations. The dog then attacked Dacey, who was shielding bystanders, biting him multiple times. The dog then continued his attack on the woman as Czaja tried to shield her until Dacey restrained and pinned the dog until police came arrived. Both received the Tracy Allen-Lee Medal, named for an EMT who died as a result of a communicable disease contracted while on duty.
AM inferno
It was just after 3 a.m. on Dec. 28 when Ladder 157 responded to a burning Brooklyn house with residents standing outside in nightwear and blankets.
The inside team, including Firefighter Edward Velten of Belle Harbor, realized the only way to the basement was an outside rear door.
Upon entering, Velton, who has since been promoted to lieutenant, found an unconscious man under a mattress. Summoning help, he moved the man as Firefighter Matt Martin covered their escape with an extinguisher. Velten received the Brooklyn Citizens Medal and Firefighter Louis Valentino Award given to “the most deserving firefighter” in Brooklyn. Q
Firefighters Bryan Garcia, left, Daniel Centonze and John Hlavacek
Lt. Scott Hamelburg
Lt. Edward Velten
B SPORTS EAT
Goodbye, Mr. Thibs
by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor
Three days after they were beaten in the Eastern Conference Finals by the Indiana Pacers, the New York Knickerbockers fired head coach Tom Thibodeau even though he was by far their most successful head coach in 25 years. Despite that reality, there were rumblings he could be dismissed as soon as Game 6 ended in Indianapolis.
The odds are the public will never know what really transpired behind the scenes among team owner James Dolan, Knicks President Leon Rose and Thibodeau. They may have believed Thibodeau had taken the Knicks as far as they would go under his watch.
It is understandable to feel the Knicks blew their best chance at a title anytime soon. Their key NBA East rival, the Boston Celtics, will be healthy, which was not the case in 2025. The Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic are rapidly improving. The Cleveland Cavaliers cannot be counted out. And let’s not forget those perennial tormentors, the Indiana Pacers.
Unlike Pacers Head Coach Rick Carlisle, who used his entire roster during the playoffs to keep everyone fresh or to spell a player having an off night, Thibodeau stayed with his core seven players for most of the series.
Even worse, the Knicks’ two big stars, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, played better when only one of them was on the court. They
were logging minus minutes (the opposition was outscoring them) when they were on the floor simultaneously. Thibodeau refused to adjust until it was too late. Place the blame on Towns’ defensive shortcomings.
Few things were as depressing as watching Thibodeau’s postgame press conferences. It did not matter whether the Knicks had won or lost — he never smiled and always came off as morose. Funeral directors got depressed watching Thibs on television.
It should also be noted that Brunson and Towns were rarely seen smiling during the past year. Frankly, they always appeared downright sullen. You must wonder if they, or some of their teammates, privately complained to Rose and Dolan about Thibodeau.
This is an all-too-common story in the NBA. Brooklyn Nets fans will remember how Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving and James Harden spoke negatively to Nets General Manager Sean Marks about then-head coach Kenny Atkinson. Marks and Nets owner Joe Tsai were clearly intimidated and agreed to dismiss Atkinson.
It did not take long for Kenny to get his revenge. He won a ring as an assistant coach for the Golden State Warriors. He moved on to Cleveland, where he was named Coach of the Year. And the Nets still have not recovered. Q
See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com
Get the kids off the couch this summer
by Naeisha Rose Editor
The city’s three public library systems announced the launch of the Summer at the Library last Wednesday.
The initiative includes reading programs for kids, teens and adults, and the libraries will make reading recommendations, host exhibits and more.
The announcement was made at the Langston Hughes Community Library and Cultural Center in North Corona.
“This summer, our libraries will be the coolest places to stay curious, escape the heat, and keep students engaged while school’s out,” said Queens Public Library President and CEO Dennis Walcott in a statement. “We are excited to welcome everyone into our vibrant spaces and help them make the most of a fantastic lineup of programs and activities, thoughtfully designed by our team with the generous support of the New York Life Foundation.”
Councilman Francisco Moya (D-Corona) said the summer will be filled with imagination, learning and opportunity.
“With initiatives like Summer at the Library, we empower our young people to color their world with creativity and possibility,” Moya said in a statement. “Libraries are more than buildings — they’re launchpads for dreams, and I’m proud to stand with our library leaders to make sure every child has access to that future.”
laston, a Financial Literacy Club at the Baisley Park Library in South Jamaica, a Comic Readers and Creators Club at the Bayside Library and a Hip Hop Dance Series at the Far Rockaway Library. Cricut is design space software.
The QPL will host a Middle School Maker Club at its teen centers and innovation stations. Students can explore the science of color through hands-on experiments in vision, electromagnetism and cognitive neuroscience.
The QPL also will distribute free books for youth — from early learners to teens — at the Children’s Library Discovery Center on June 5, at the Corona Library on June 6 and at both the Flushing and Langston Hughes libraries on June 7.
For a full list of programs and events, visit connect.queenslibrary.org/1074.
To learn what the Brooklyn and New York public library systems have to offer, go online to nypl.org and bklynlibrary.org and search for Summer at the Library.
Councilwoman Carlina Rivera (D-Manhattan), chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs and Libraries, said she is proud to collaborate with the library systems and champion the summer program.
“Libraries are gateways to imagination, discovery, and community,” said Rivera. “‘Summer at the Library’ helps provide a safe and inspiring space ... while school is out.” Q
The QPL will host multilingual storytimes, author talks and arts and crafts programs.
Children and teens will be encouraged to read for at least 20 minutes a day for a chance to win raffle prizes as part of the QPL’s annual Summer Reading Challenge.
Science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics clubs tailored to different age groups will be offered at 40 QPL locations. The themes for this year’s STEAM clubs are art and color. Programs will include sensory art, storytelling and music and movement for early learners, as well as aviation and engineering activities for teens.
Special club offerings include a Tween Cricut Club at the North Hills Library in Doug-
OZP kids summer kickoff on 6/19
All are welcome to the free Ozone Park Kids Summer Kickoff on Thursday, June 19, from 12 to 3 p.m. in Tudor Park, at 82nd Street and 133rd Avenue.
Hosted by City Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), with the Ozone Tudor Civic Association and the Parks Department, the event promises music, treats, crafts, bounce houses and fun for the whole family.
Those with questions can contact Ariola’s office at (718) 738-1083. Q
by Kristen Guglielmo
Fans of Shakespeare’s witty banter, romantic twists and delicious drama will find plenty to love in the Public Theater’s Mobile Unit production of “Much Ado About Nothing” — but this isn’t your high school English class’ version.
The Public is shaking things up with a vibrant, bilingual adaptation of the classic comedy. Directed by Rebecca Martínez and infused with original Latin-inspired music by Julián Mesri, the fresh take brings the Bard to the boroughs — for free.
Hark! In the park! about four outdoor Shakespeare shows
Set in the Italian town of Messina, the play follows two intertwined love stories — the sharp, quip-filled romance between Beatrice and Benedick, and the sweeter, fragile courtship between Hero and Claudio. As characters eavesdrop, scheme and spar, Shakespeare explores themes of love, honor and the consequences of letting gossip speak louder than truth.
The cast includes Keren Lugo as Beatrice, Nathan M. Ramsey as Benedick, Mayelah Barrera as Hero, Daniel Bravo Hernández as Claudio, Carlo Albán as Borachio and Hiram Delgado as Don Pedro.
While the 100-minute production stops in all five boroughs, it makes its way to Queens on June 20 at ARROW Field House in Astoria; June 21 at the Queens Night Market in Flushing Meadows Corona Park; June 22 at Roy Wilkins Park in Jamaica; and June 27 at Travers Park in Jackson Heights.
All performances are outdoors. Seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis, with no tickets required, though reservations are recommended. For more information, go online to publictheater.org.
“New York is a multilingual city, and Spanish has such a huge presence in our city and the communities that we go to,” Martínez told the Chronicle.
Though the production is bilingual, people who only speak English or Spanish can still follow along in the moments outside of their native language, Martínez said.
“It is such a well-written play,” she said. “It has a bit of a sense of a telenovela in that it has high, high drama, but also humor and fun. It’s a
continued on page 33
King Crossword Puzzle
I HAVE OFTEN WALKED
David Faber took stock of the market in Forest Hills
by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor
The childhood home of CNBC business journalist and co-host of “Squawk on the Street” David Faber was at 76-36 113 St. in Forest Hills.
At 22 years old, Norman Lee Faber, who became a successful attorney, married 20-year-old Belle Bergman, the daughter of the proprietor of a children’s dress factory, on Aug. 26, 1962. They moved into a six-story 113-unit building at 76-36 113 Street (Apt. 2P) in Forest Hills. They were blessed with a baby boy, David, on March 10, 1964. David lived his entire childhood at the Forest Hills address until he went away to Tufts University, graduating cum laude in 1985. Becoming a financial journalist, he joined CNBC in 1993 after seven years at Institutional Investor. When he came aboard CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” his likable humor brought a breath of fresh air to a financial show that had generally been boring in the past. Faber married Jenny Harris in January 2000. He guest hosted on “Jeopardy” in 2021. He has been dubbed “the Brain” by CNBC co-workers. Now he is enjoyed every morning on “Squawk on the Street,” starting at 9 a.m. Q
Dance the night away at Thalia Spanish Theatre
by Naeisha Rose editor
Put on your dancing shoes for the Thalia Spanish Theatre’s 33rd tango production.
“Tango 100%” features world-renowned dancers who are gliding across the theater’s stage to popular and new tango music through June 29.
The theater has performances Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 3 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 4 p.m. Tickets are $50, or $45 for students and seniors and $40 for everyone on Thursdays. There are also special rates for groups of 10, which people may learn more about at thaliatheatre.org or by calling (718) 729-3880.
Angel Gil Orrios, the executive director and producer who designed and directed “Tango 100%,” said the production has won about 256 awards worldwide, including a Latin Grammy in 2008.
“The award we got last year was from the Academy of Performing Arts in Spain,” he told the Chronicle. “Most of our productions are world premieres. We have received awards in Spain, Latin America and Hispanics here in the U.S. ... Our productions go to international theater festivals in America, Asia — Korea. The tango productions are popular with people from all over the world.”
Orrios said the traveling production has drawn fans all over, from Russian-Americans who caught it in Coney Island to people who saw it performed in Eastern Europe.
“Tango is popular with everybody, not just the Latino population,” said the director.
For years the theater has been doing different takes on the tango, but this year it wants to go back to some familiar styles.
“Last year, we did ‘Tango Candonbe,’” said Orrios, “the African roots of tango. That
was very successful. This year is called ‘Tango 100%’ because we want to do a very pure tango. Usually, in a tango show you have tango, milonga — milonga is the happy tango, as opposed to tango-tango, which is sad and has nostalgia. Milonga is the more festive one. Milonga is the place where people just go to dance tango. Then there is the valf [waltz] — that is when the tango went to Europe, especially Paris. It became very popular there too. Every tango show has the three styles.”
Orrios said the waltz is a more majestic form of tango that is elegant and very ritualistic in movement and features romantic ballads. The waltz was often a style of dancing for aristocrats.
“There is a middle section in our show,” said Orrios. “Instead of doing an intermission, we do that milonga section in the show and we invite the audience to dance. That is why we say, bring your dance shoes.”
The musical director and arranger for the piece is Emiliano Messiez.
“We have a new musical director,” said Orrios. “Our previous director, Maestro Raul Jaurena, died of Covid three years ago. Our pianist, [Messiez], worked with Maestro Jaurena. It was with [Juarena] we won the Latin Grammy.”
Singers Ache Rey and Sofia Tosello are accompanied by Messiez on the piano, Sergio Reyes on the violin, Pedro Giraudo on the doublebass and Cordeone Loic Da Silva on the bandoneon. Guillermina Quiroga is dancing with Mariano Logiudice and Analia Carreño is paired with Luis Ramirez.
“People can come as couples or dance with the dancers from the show,” said Orrios.
The theater, located at 41-17 Greenpoint Ave. in Sunnyside, is also celebrating its 48th year in operation. Q
Bard in the barrio: ‘Much Ado’ comes to Queens
continued from page 31
really great vehicle to bring communities together to experience both the heights of drama, and also joy.”
During the play, the characters become embedded in drama and conflict by listening to gossip and hearsay instead of speaking truth from the source.
“It talks a lot about toxic masculinity and machismo ... and what happens when you get too deep in listening to what other peo-
Crossword Answers
ple are saying, instead of listening to the people who are affected by what other people are saying.” Martínez said. “That leads to a lot of the trouble, because people are not being judged by their own actions. They’re being judged based on what other people have heard them say.”
Music was added to the production to both draw in audiences and reflect the characters’ experiences, creating a sense of celebration and community.
“There are several songs in the play, but it is both a reminder that the men are coming from war, and that there is a heaviness to that, and there is a feeling of loss for the people who are home — but they’re coming back, and they are triumphant and glad to be back,” Martínez said. “And there is a joy in the reception of that: ‘You made it through. Now let’s figure out how to celebrate together.’”
The production’s taking place outdoors versus on a stage indoors presents some unique challenges.
“The cast needs to be really adaptable, because the venue is changing, the sound is changing, the community is changing,” Martínez said, adding that sometimes they
Nathan M. Ramsey is Benedick in The Public Theater’s Mobile Unit production of Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” coming to Queens this June. On the cover: Mayelah Barrera’s Hero, left, and Daniel Bravo Hernández’s Claudio share an intimate moment.
are “competing with the city,” performing through the sounds of sirens and car radios. The production even once went on during a nearby Zumba class.
“I think the exciting part about it is that we are in a dialogue with the city,” she said. “We are in a dialogue with the communities and the places we’re going.” Q
“Tango 100%” dancers Guilermina Quiroga, left, and Mariano Logiudice and Analia Carreño and Luis Ramirez.
PHOTOS BY SEBASTIAN GIL-LOPEZ
PHOTOS BY PETER COOPER
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NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, BANTAM FUNDING II, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. UNITED ASSETS CORPORATION USA, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 7, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on June 27, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 1142 Welling Court a/k/a 1142 Welling Court, Astoria a/k/a Long Island City, NY 11102. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 506 and Lot 60. Approximate amount of judgment is $854,910.06 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #712227/2020. Richard M. Gutierrez, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 233152-2
A Temporary Domestic Abuse Restraining Order has been issued for Kristin Moore (petitioner) against Arif Karem Ally (respondent). The injunction hearing will be held June 20th, 2025 at 8:15 am in front of Commissioner Sally Paul at 415 Jackson St. Room 141 Oshkosh, WI 54901.
Notice of Formation of 3308 TWENTY NINTH LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 05/28/25. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 22 Fir Dr., Manhasset Hills, NY 11040. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
6111 166st Fresh Meadow LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 05/24/25. Off. Loc.: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 5732 157th St., Fl 2, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.
Notice of Formation of AK NORTHERN HOLDINGS, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/14/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Lawton Leung, Withers Bergman LLP, 157 Church Street, 12th Floor, New Haven, CT 06510. Purpose: any lawful activities.
NOTICE OF SALE
In pursuance and by virtue of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly granted and entered in and action entitled NYCTL 1998-2 Trust v. Sereth T. Hosty, et al., bearing Index No. 9186-2011 before the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Queens, IAS Part 6, Justice Tracy Catapano-Fox, on or about February 26, 2024, I, the Referee, duly appointed in this action for such purpose, will expose for sale and sell at public auction to the highest bidder on June 27, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom 25, located at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York 11435, the mortgaged premises designated as Block 11190, Lot 37 in the City of New York, County and Borough of Queens, State of New York and known as 223-23 109th Avenue, Queens Village, New York 11429, directed in and by said judgment to be sold. The approximate amount of the judgment is $299,772.53 plus interest and other charges, and the property is being sold subject to the terms and conditions stated in the judgment, any prior encumbrances, the terms of sale which shall be available at the time of sale, the Queens County Foreclosure Auction Rules and any announcements of the Referee. Dated: May 29, 2025 New York, New York Richard Gutierrez, Esq. Referee 118-35 Queens Blvd., Suite 1500 Forest Hills, New York 11375 (718) 520-0663
DAVID P. STICH, ESQ. Attorney for Plaintiff 521 Fifth Avenue, 17th Floor, New York, New York 10175 (646) 554-4421
Notice of Formation of BELLINO MAINTENANCE LLC
Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/14/2025. 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: BELLINO MAINTENANCE LLC, 94-02 150TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11596. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS. NYCTL 19982 TRUST, and THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, as Paying Agent and Collateral Agent and Custodian for the NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST, Plaintiffs -against- SHUBERT DENIS, et al. Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated April 23, 2024 and entered on April 29, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on Friday July 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., in Courtroom # 25, Jamaica, NY 11435, or at such other location in the courthouse that the Court may designate for conducting this foreclosure auction, 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 north side of Linden Blvd., distant 82.84 feet West of the corner formed by the intersection of Linden Blvd. and 222nd Street; being a plot 17.0 feet by 92.87 feet by 17.0 feet by 93.09 feet. Block: 11322
Lot: 5 Said premises known as 221-13 LINDEN BOULEVARD, CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, NY 11411 Approximate amount of lien $6,019.17, through July 4, 2024, plus interest fees & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 724032/2020.
SCOTT SILLER, ESQ., Referee Seyfarth Shaw LLP
Attorney(s) for Plaintiffs 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. 815 BAY 25 CORP., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 7, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on June 20, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 815 a/k/a 8-15 Bay 25th Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 15733 and Lot 1. Approximate amount of judgment is $669,416.04 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #719169/2022. Arthur N. Terranova, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 244281-3
A Notice of Formation of Greenwood Group Realty LLC, Art. of Org. filed Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 3/24/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: The LLC, 98-04 35th Ave., Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: any lawful activity.
LIC KABAB LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/30/2025. 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, 40-09 21st Street, Unit E, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST, AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN FOR THE NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. ZENON GALCYZNSKI AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RASMA GALCYZNSKI A/K/A ROSE GALCZYNSKI A/K/A ROSE GALCZYNSKA A/K/A ROSE VIRSIS, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF RAMSA GALCYZNSKI A/K/A ROSE GALCZYNSKI A/K/A ROSE GALCZYNSKA A/K/A ROSE VIRSIS, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated April 23, 2025 and duly entered on April 28, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on July 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 68-29 Jay Avenue, Flushing, NY 11378. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 2399 and Lot 26. Approximate amount of judgment is $63,484.46 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #711482/19. Martha Taylor, Esq., Referee Bronster, LLP, 156 West 56th Street, Suite 703, New York, New York 10019, Attorneys for Plaintiff
Notice of Formation of RED WHITE & TRUE LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/18/2024. 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, 5110 BROADWAY, UNIT 1002, WOODSIDE, NY 11377. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Notice of Formation of ROOTS3 LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/15/2025. 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: SOKYONG YUN, 24-41 31ST STREET, #1102, ASTORIA, NY 11102. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
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 212-941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718722-3131. The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.
Howard Beach/Lindenwood, Lg 1 BR Co-op. Move-in cond. Updated kitchen. Top flr. Asking $189K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136
Notice of Formation of BRI’S BAKE HOUSE, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/10/2025. 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: BRI’S BAKE HOUSE, LLC, 105-40 62ND ROAD, APT 7G, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Notice of formation EASTERN GRACE HOLDINGS LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 06/04/2025. Office located in QUEENS. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC, 3808 UNION ST., 11D, FLUSHING, NY 11354 Purpose: any lawful purpose.
Having a garage sale? Let everyone know about it by advertising in the Queens Classifieds Call 718-205-8000 and place the ad!
Notice of Formation of ESFIHA FINA LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/04/2024 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: MAXWELL ALVES, 32-09 35TH AVENUE, APT3, ASTORIA, NY, 11106. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Notice of formation of GGLL 3 LLC. Art. of Org. filed with NY Sec. of State on 5/23/25. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent for service of process. SSNY shall mail process to 6703 54th Ave., Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
File No.: 2022-4802/B, CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY THE GRACE OF GOD, FREE AND INDEPENDENT
To: Richard Bochan, George Cudnik, Tom Bochanowicz, Robert Cudnik, Estate of June Smith, Estate of Michael Smith, Patrick Smith, Michael Thomas Smith, Estate of Edward Bochan, Jr. by Administrator Pauline Smith, Edward Batalitzky, Attorney General of the State of New York. The unknown distributees, legatees, devisees, heirs at law and assignees of James L. Brooks, deceased, or their estates, if any there be, whose names, places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the petitioner and cannot with due diligence be ascertained Robert Edwin Brooks, if living and if dead, to their heirs at law, next of kin and distributees whose names and places of residence are unknown and if they died subsequent to the decedent herein, to their executors, administrators, legatees, devisees, assignees and successors in interest whose names and places of residence are unknown and cannot be ascertained after due diligence. Being the persons interested as creditors, legatees, distributees or otherwise in the Estate of James L. Brooks, deceased, who at the time of death was a resident of 67-32 218th Street, Apt 2, Oakland Gardens, NY 11364, in the County of Queens, State of New York. SEND GREETING: Upon the petition of LOIS M. ROSENBLATT, Public Administrator of Queens County, who maintains her office at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, Queens County, New York 11435, as Administrator of the Estate of James L. Brooks, deceased, you and each of you are hereby cited to show cause before the Surrogate at the Surrogate’s Court of the County of Queens, to be held at the Queens General Courthouse, 6th Floor, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, City and State of New York, on the 24th day of July, 2025 at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon, why the Account of Proceedings of the Public Administrator of Queens County, as Administrator of the Estate of said deceased, a copy of which is attached, should not be judicially settled, and why the Surrogate should not fi x and allow a reasonable amount of compensation to GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., for legal services rendered to petitioner herein in the amount of $10,739.22 and that the Court fi x the fair and reasonable additional fee for any services to be rendered by GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., hereafter in connection with proceedings on kinship, claims etc., prior to entry of a final Decree on this accounting in the amount of 6% of assets or income collected after the date of the within accounting; and why the Surrogate should not fi x and allow an amount equal to one percent on said Schedules of the total assets on Schedules A, A1, and A2 plus any additional monies received subsequent to the date of this account, as the fair and reasonable amount payable to the Offi ce of the Public Administrator for the expenses of said offi ce pursuant to S.C.P.A. §1106(3); and why each of you claiming to be a distributee of the decedent should not establish proof of your kinship; and why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship, or deposited with the Commissioner of Finance of the City of New York should said alleged distributees default herein, or fail to establish proof of kinship, Dated, Attested and Sealed 4th day of June, 2025, HON. CASSANDRA A. JOHNSON,Surrogate, Queens County, Janet Edwards Tucker, Chief Clerk, GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., (718) 459-9000, 1981 Marcus Avenue, Suite 200, Lake Success, New York 11042
NOTICE: THIS CITATION IS SERVED UPON YOU AS REQUIRED BY LAW. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPEAR; HOWEVER, 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, AND YOU OR YOUR ATTORNEY MAY REQUEST A COPY OF THE FULL ACCOUNT FROM THE PETITIONER OR PETITIONER’S ATTORNEY, Accounting Citation
Notice of Formation of Smart Move Services, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/20/2025 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: LINA RESTREPO, 3553 82 STREET, APT 4E, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 717976/2023 BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST Plaintiff, vs UNKNOWN HEIRS OF WILLIAM E. WHEELER, SR. A/K/A WILLIAM EDWIN WHEELER IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, SHARON RICHARDSON AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM E. WHEELER, SR. A/K/A WILLIAM EDWIN WHEELER, SHIRLEY WHEELER-MASSEY AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM E. WHEELER, SR. A/K/A WILLIAM EDWIN WHEELER, WILLIAM E. WHEELER, JR. AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM E. WHEELER, SR. A/K/A WILLIAM EDWIN WHEELER, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF CATHY E. KETTRELL IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CRYSTAL KETTRELL AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM E. WHEELER, SR. A/K/A WILLIAM EDWIN WHEELER, WILLIS F KETTRELL, III AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF CATHY KETTRELL WHO WAS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM E. WHEELER, SR. A/K/A WILLIAM EDWIN WHEELER, JAMAL F KETTRELL AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF CATHY KATRELL WHO WAS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM E. WHEELER, SR. A/K/A WILLIAM EDWIN WHEELER, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK, NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING THROUGH THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, PEARL DELTA FUNDING, LLC, ATLANTIC CREDIT & FINANCE INC. APO WASHINGTON MUTUAL, NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the Subject Property described in the Complaint, Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 179-12 134th Avenue Jamaica, NY 11434 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Queens. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of William Edwin Wheeler, Sr. a/k/a William Edwin Wheeler., Unknown Heirs of Cathy E. Kettrell Defendants In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Karina E. Alomar of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twenty-Ninth day of May, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Jamaica. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by William Edwin Wheeler, Sr. (who died on January 2, 2018, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) and Gloria R. Wheeler (who died on March 31, 2007, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) dated the June 21, 2006, to secure the sum of $487,500.00 and recorded at CRFN 2006000419069 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on July 24, 2006. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 28, 2009 and recorded on October 7, 2009, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2009000326086. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 4, 2016 and recorded on January 22, 2016, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2016000021340. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 6, 2018 and recorded on October 31, 2018, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2018000363342. The property in question is described as follows: 179-12 134th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: May 29, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 85995
Notice of Formation of STUDIO YP LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/07/2024. 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, 2218 JACKSON AVE APT 208, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
SYNERGY CONSTRUCTION R
LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 5/22/25. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 10207 Roosevelt Ave., 2nd Fl., Corona, NY 11368, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Notice of Formation of TECQ, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/28/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: BRIAN MARMOR, 2325 31ST ST., STE 200, ASTORIA, NY 11105. Purpose: any lawful activities
Notice of Formation of TERRA9 CONTRACTING LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/06/2025. 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: TERRA9 CONTRACTING LLC, 4913 70TH STREET, WOODSIDE, NY 11377. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, -against- JOSEPH SCIBILIA, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on October 18, 2024, wherein WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST is the Plaintiff and JOSEPH SCIBILIA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD, COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on June 27, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 16347 19TH AVENUE, WHITESTONE, NY 11357; and the following tax map identification: 5740-55. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE THIRD WARD OF THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 713545/2018. Jeffrey Albert St. Clair, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS MORGAN
STANLEY MORTGAGE LOAN
TRUST 2006-11, U.S. BANK
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, -against- BERTHA CECILIA LEMA, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on December 9, 2024, wherein MORGAN
STANLEY MORTGAGE LOAN
TRUST 2006-11, U.S. BANK
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE is the Plaintiff and BERTHA CECILIA LEMA, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD, COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on June 20, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 109-16 34TH AVENUE, CORONA, NY 11368; and the following tax map identification: 1753-8. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 709545/2019. Lois Marie Vitti, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Queens Action To Foreclose A Mortgage Index #: 721222/2022 Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee For Cascade Funding Mortgage Trust HB5 Plaintiff, vs Duane Brown As Heir To The Estate Of Vivian D. Brown, Unknown Heirs Of Vivian D. Brown If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff, Criminal Court Of The City Of New York, New York City Parking Violations Bureau, United States Of America On Behalf Of The Secretary Of Housing And Urban Development, New York City Environmental Control Board, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS “John Doe #1” through “John Doe #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the Subject Property described in the Complaint, Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 109-97 200th Street St. Albans, NY 11412 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not ser ved with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Queens. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Vivian D. Brown Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Karina E. Alomar of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twenty-Eighth day of May, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Jamaica. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below dated October 20, 2008, executed by Arthur Brown (who died on December 2, 2012, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) and Vivian D. Brown (who died on December 3, 2021, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) to secure the sum of $544,185.00. The Mortgage was recorded at CRFN 2008000436265 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on November 10, 2008. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 17, 2010 and recorded on May 5, 2010, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2010000151094. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by a corrective assignment executed July 2, 2010 and recorded on July 28, 2010, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2010000251468. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed May 18, 2021 and recorded on June 9, 2021, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2021000215938. The property in question is described as follows: 109-97 200th Street, St. Albans, NY 11412 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The state encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1-800-269-0990 or visit the department’s website at WWW.DFS.NY.GOV. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303 NOTICE NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: May 29, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 85976
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