Queens Chronicle 08-27-26

SOUTH QUEENS EDITION Serving Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, City Line and JFK Airport

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NO. 35

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2026

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TIRED OF

TRUCKS PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN

Big rigs line Woodhaven Boulevard overnight PAGE 6

Trucks and trailers are parking overnight along Woodhaven Boulevard next to St. John Cemetery, despite a city ban between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. and fines for the rule breakers — but a drivers’ advocate notes they need somewhere to take legally mandated rest.

CHECKS AND BALANCES

ALL PACKED UP

SUMMER’S STILL SMILING

Mayor, Council at odds over para payments

Woodhaven BID helps hundreds

Have Wheel Fun in the sun in Flushing Meadows

PAGES 4 AND 10

PAGE 29

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 2

City’s sidewalk shed proposals advancing New reporting regulations, oversight and structure designs on the way

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

M

ayor Mamdani on Aug. 20 introduced new regulations that his administration says will make construction sidewalk sheds fewer, safer, less obtrusive and shorter in duration.

The regulations were first proposed by the administration in March. Mamdani, in a press release said there are 10 percent fewer sheds in the city since he took office in January.

“New Yorkers have gotten used to sidewalk sheds darkening our streets and taking up precious public space, but it doesn’t have to be this way,” Mamdani said in a press release. “With better designs and stronger enforcement, we are going to keep bringing down the number of sheds, opening up our sidewalks and making them safer, brighter and more welcoming for everyone.”

Rules adopted last spring reduced permit renewal periods from one year to 90 days.

Starting this month property owners are required to file detailed reports about the work being done.

Starting early in 2027, property owners will face increased fines for leaving the scaffolding up when no work is being done or for failure to complete work “within a reasonable amount of time.” Penalties can be held off if owners can demonstrate that they are mak-

The city is moving forward with a number of regulatory and oversight initiatives in its battle to reduce the number and longevity of sidewalk sheds.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON ing meaningful progress.

The city also is proposing six new designs for sidewalk sheds that it says will allow more light, visibility and pedestrian safety that the present structures, while taking up less sidewalk space due to both new design and different building materials.

Some, for instance, will have roofs that

angle upward and away from the building.

The city has scheduled an online hearing on the proposed shed design changes from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 24.

Links to the full set of rule changes, artists’ renderings of the new designs and registration for the Sept. 24 hearing can all be found at tinyurl.com/y7uyrkct.

The Real Estate Board of New York, which represents and advocates for the real estate industry, referred the Chronicle to testimony it offered on April 27.

“In general, we support the City’s efforts to incentivize the timely completion of façade work and removal of sidewalk sheds and other efforts to improve sidewalk shed design and to minimize their use while still protecting the public,” the group said, as it is very much in the interest of its members to complete work and remove the sheds as quickly as possible.

But it also stressed that in reality façade work may take significantly longer than the new deadlines allow.

The agency said streamlining things such as reporting and other paperwork would be less duplicative and more effective.

“It seems to assume that owners are operating or want to operate in bad faith, and so they need to constantly justify and file documents demonstrating that they are, in fact, trying to complete work,” the proffer continues. “Even the process of getting justified extensions requires constant filings.”

The New York City Building and Construction Trades Council, the umbrella organization for the city’s construction unions, declined to comment on the regulations in Q an email.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 4

Mamdani admin sues to block para checks Mayor blocks law that would award up to $10,000; Council vows to defend it

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The Mamdani administration sued the City Council on Aug. 19 to block a new law granting school paraprofessionals payments of up to $10,000, filing in Manhattan state Supreme Court hours after the measure lapsed into law without the mayor’s signature or veto.

The lawsuit, brought by the mayor, the city Department of Education and schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels, asks a judge to declare Intro. 692-A, the Respect Check Act, invalid and bar its enforcement.

The legislation, sponsored by Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa (D-Manhattan) and passed unanimously by the Council on July 16, requires the DOE to pay eligible full-time paraprofessionals up to $10,000 for work performed during the 2026-27 school year, on top of their salaries.

The prorated, nonpensionable payments would go out in four installments between January and August 2027.

The city’s central argument, per the filing, is that the checks violate the state’s Taylor Law, which mandates that wages and benefits for public employees be settled at the bargaining table, not by legislation.

“Although the Council labels these ‘stabilization’ payments, they effectively function as stipends or salary bonuses and, regardless of terminology, are an additional form of compensation and, as such, a mandatory subject of bargaining,” the complaint states.

The suit also invokes a clause of the Munici-

Mayor Mamdani is suing the city to block a law, unanimously passed by the City Council, that would send payments of up to $10,000 to paraprofessionals. Council Speaker Julie Menin, seen at left at an unrelated press conference, said the legislative body will “vigorously defend the law.”

PHOTO BY MICHAEL APPLETON / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE pal Home Rule Law, which bars local laws affecting the “maintenance, support or administration” of the school system.

The city puts the price tag at $324.9 million, citing the Council’s own July 10 fiscal impact statement — $243.7 million in fiscal year 2027 and $81.2 million in 2028 — and said the real cost would run higher once administrative expenses are counted.

The filing also asserts that other unions will seek stabilization payments of their own as a result, and notes that District Council 37 has already claimed DOE family workers qualify under the bill’s definition.

Matt Rauschenbach, a spokesperson for the mayor, said paraprofessionals have long been unfairly compensated and that talks with the United Federation of Teachers on a

permanent fix are underway.

But the Council’s approach, he said, “undermines collective bargaining and sets a dangerous precedent: allowing politicians to bypass workers and their unions and dictate the terms of employment themselves.”

Speaker Julie Menin (D-Manhattan) and De La Rosa in a joint statement said, “This law is not only the right thing to do, it is also the fiscally responsible thing to do, helping address the staffing shortages that contribute to the City’s $1.5 billion in Carter case costs. The Council will vigorously defend the law.”

Carter cases are ones that force the city to cover private school costs for some students.

Queens members lined up behind them, voicing support on social media. Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Howard Beach), the first minority delegation member to sign on to the bill, said she stands “strongly” with the speaker and De La Rosa.

Councilmember Sandra Ung (D-Flushing) said the suit “sends the wrong message” to paraprofessionals “at a time when they should be focused on preparing for a new school year, not worrying if they will be compensated fairly.”

The UFT on X said the bill was drafted carefully so as not to violate the Taylor Law, and that the union would not have backed a measure threatening its bargaining rights.

A Glendale paraprofessional declined to comment on the lawsuit but told the Chronicle he was looking forward to the possibility of Q the check.

Trees count — and you can count trees All are invited to volunteer at city Parks Department arboreal surveys

by Peter C. Mastrosimone

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Editor-in-Chief

Are you now, or have you ever been, a tree hugger?

Sure you have! So come on out sometime in the next few weeks and help the city count, measure and generally survey all the trees in our parks.

It’s Trees Count, an initiative that has its roots in the decennial Street Tree Census the city launched in 1995.

“Our current Trees Count is our most ambitious tree census yet,” the city Parks Department says online. “Just like the U.S. Census helps us understand people, this count helps us understand and care for the trees that make our city livable, resilient, and beautiful.”

This year’s work continues the survey begun in 2025. “In our first year, more than 2,500 volunteers joined us to count trees in hundreds of parks across the city,” Parks says. “Now, in our second year, we’re looking for even more people to come out. Join us and start counting!”

Last summer and fall, the city says, it surveyed more than 46,000 trees in 434 parks, 27.4 percent of all such spaces in the city, working with more than 2,600 volunteers at 138 events in all five boroughs.

“Thousands of people learned, gathered, and cared for the city — one tree at a time,” Parks says.

For this year, more than 40 upcoming tree counts were listed at press time, eight of them in Queens. They will be held at: • Brookville Park in Rosedale, from 10 a.m. to noon on Sept. 3; • Crocheron Park in Bayside, 4 to 6 p.m.

Sept. 3; • Springfield Park in Springfield Gardens, 2 to 4 p.m. Sept. 8; • Forest Park, on the Woodhaven-Glendale side, 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 11; • Socrates Sculpture Park in Long Island City, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 12; • Police Officer Edward Byrne Park in South Ozone Park, 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 14;

• Tudor Park in Ozone Park, noon to 2 p.m.

Sept. 15; and • Lefferts Playground in South Ozone Park, 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 17.

More events may be added. Registration is required for all of them, and typically closes out two to four days beforehand.

All the key details, such as where to meet for each event and how to register, are available at nycgovparks.org/reg/trees-count.

The Parks Department also speaks to the importance of Trees Count on its website.

“Once you participate in a survey, you start to notice every tree — and that changes how you see the city,” the agency says. “We count both park trees and street trees — creating the most complete picture of NYC’s urban forest in history.”

The arboreal inventories help the city to: see how the urban forest is changing; make smart, data-driven decisions about care and planting; bring more trees to neighborhoods that need shade, cooling and cleaner air; strengthen pro-

Trees Count is fun, educational and a great way to meet fellow fans of all things arboreal.

PHOTO BY DANIEL AVILA / NYC PARKS

tections against heat, flooding and pollution; support biodiversity and healthy ecosystems; and invite New Yorkers to connect with nature — right outside their doors.

The city’s incredibly detailed Tree Map, which lists 298,188 specimens in Queens, far more than any other borough, may be found at Q tree-map.nycgovparks.org.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 6

A big trucking problem on Woodhaven More tractor trailers are being parked there, but where else should they go?

by Kristina Raevsky

serving in office, strongly opposes trucks parking on Woodhaven.

“It’s a huge issue and it’s very Truck drivers need places to park.

There is plenty of space next to St. dangerous,” Holden told the ChroniJohn Cemetery along Woodhaven cle. “It’s dangerous for motorists. It’s Boulevard on the Midde Village- dangerous for pedestrians if you Rego Park border, so it may seem want to walk because it’s darker, and like a problem solved — but when you can’t be seen from the street they’re parked there too long, it’s a because these trucks are blocking any kind of view.” violation of city law.

Holden believes that the police are Many tractor-trailers are being parked on Woodhaven overnight, not doing enough to curb the violawith the number appearing to tions, saying, “The 104th Precinct increase this year. But according to does not seem to think that this is a city law and posted signs, commer- priority. The 104 is usually asleep at cial vehicles are not allowed to park the wheel on these things. They have been for decades.” there between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Asked for a response to that, the So why do the drivers park there if NYPD press office said via email, they are not supposed to?

The answer is multifaceted. “Year-to-date, the 104 Precinct has Woodhaven Boulevard is a conve- issued over 55 summonses to address nient location for truckers, being part illegal parking in the area of Woodof the local truck route from the Long haven Boulevard. Additionally, trafIsland Expressway to other major fic enforcement agents have issued Queens corridors. Not only that, over 35 parking summonses in that according to federal law, truck driv- area this year.

The number of trucks and trailers parked on Woodhaven Boulevard next to St. John Cemetery seems to be increas“The NYPD will continue to mon- ing, observers say. Some of the latter lack cabs and are left there for days at a time. ers must find a spot to park so they PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN can take a mandated break, or else be itor parking conditions on Woodhavtrucks, but enough is enough already. in violation of their hours of service en Boulevard and take enforcement al areas, but residential corridors like doing business.” action as necessary.”

Woodhaven Boulevard are not the He sees it as a quality-of-life issue, It’s an eyesore. Plus, it’s a danger.” and not be allowed to drive.

Enforcing the ban on overnight place for it.” and not just on the boulevard. ResiThe city has tried to alleviate the That leaves big-rig drivers in a Issuing more summonses may not dents also see many trucks parked issue by having the Department of predicament because, according to commercial parking is not simple, Zach Miller, vice president of gov- said City Councilman Phil Wong be a highly effective deterrent, either. along Cooper Avenue and, not too far Transportation create more legal According to the city Department of away, near Forest Hills High School, parking spaces for drivers. ernment affairs for the Trucking (D-Maspeth), Holden’s successor.

“This has been a Fi n a n c e we b sit e, among other places.

A DOT spokesperson told the Association of New York, “There longstanding problem pa rk i ng v iolat ion “These are public streets, not pri- Chronicle over email that the agency aren’t many safe legal options.” code 78, the f ine vate commercial storage lots,” Wong launched the Overnight Truck ParkThus, many park alongside the on Woodhaven Bouuality of life, incurred for parking a said. “Long-term and overnight truck ing Pilot Program in 2025, introduccemetery because “it is convenient levard and, unfortuvehicle parking takes parking away from res- ing new metered options for commerfor them in terms of where they need nately, it appears to safety, federal commercial on a residential street idents, creates visibility and quality- cial vehicles in industrial business to be in the morning but also in a way be getting worse,” that they would deem doesn’t have a Wo n g s a i d ov e r law and other between 9 p.m. and 5 of-life concerns, and can make zones. The pilot created three places a.m., unless doing already congested residential corri- across the city where truckers can negative impact on communities,” e m a i l. “ We h ave concerns are business within three dors more difficult to navigate. Resi- park, one of which is in Queens, Miller told the Chronicle in a phone wo r ke d w it h t h e NYPD on enforceblocks, is only $65. dents should not have to wake up along 56th Road between 43rd and interview. all at play.

Wo n g s a i d h e every morning to blocks being used 49th streets in Maspeth.

“This is not the ideal solution by ment, including sumbelieves, “The city as overnight truck yards.”

That is about three miles from the any stretch and it’s not a permanent monses, boots, barnaOne resident, Juniper Park Civic problematic site on Woodhaven Bousolution,” he said. “But it does show cles and towing, but enforcement is needs consistent enforcement, adethat we do have a shortage and that made more difficult by limited tow quate tow capacity and realistic legal Association President Anthony Nun- levard — as the crow flies.

Miller argues that while the pilot drivers are going to be strategic in pound space and the availability of parking alternatives for commercial ziato, said the parking on Woodhaven vehicles. If the penalty for illegally Boulevard is not the biggest concern is a step in the right direction, the 20 how they find places to get their man- heavy-duty tow trucks.

“Commercial vehicles need some- parking overnight remains cheaper because it is near a cemetery and, in spots created in Queens are not dated rest.”

Former City Councilmember Bob where legal to park, and I support than paying for legitimate truck park- his view, doesn’t really bother people enough and more are needed.

“It would make sense to create Holden, a longtime civic leader in creating more designated overnight ing, some operators will simply treat as much as other locations do.

However, when it comes to trucks more of these pilot type programs in Middle Village and Maspeth before truck parking in appropriate industri- the occasional ticket as a cost of parking overnight in other residential the industrial zones to match the areas, Nunziato finds it “horren- modernized truck route network as dous,” saying, “I mean, we need our they build out more permanent parking solutions,” Miller said, referring to the DOT. “I think anything that we could be doing a little bit more of in the short term to provide these legal and safe places for trucks to park, we need to be doing it.”

The DOT told the Chronicle it will review any community requests for additional locations for the pilot.

Wong says, “The goal should be to give truck operators a realistic legal alternative while protecting residential streets from becoming de facto Q Some of the big rigs and tractor-less trailers that have been seen parked on Woodhaven Boulevard in recent weeks. PHOTOS BY BOB HOLDEN, LEFT, AND MICHAEL SHAIN truck depots.”

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The city is deploying dedicated squads of specialists to help make sure parks stay both beautiful and functional.

Mayor Mamdani on Monday announced the launch of Renew Crew, a team of 24 painters, plumbers and more tasked with making quick fixes to playgrounds, recreation centers and sport courts. City Hall said the group will focus on improvements that are most visible to visitors, such as repainting chipped equipment and addressing wear and tear.

“New Yorkers shouldn’t have to wait months for the basic repairs that make our parks better,” Mamdani said in a press release. “We’re going to get the job done quickly and make sure every neighborhood has public spaces that New Yorkers can be proud of.”

He announced the launch at Forest Park’s Dry Harbor Playground in Glendale, where crews are sprucing up two basketball courts, play equipment, benches, bollards, a drinking fountain and more. Other upgrades include new protective flooring on play areas, dead tree removals and enhanced horticulture around the Sept. 11 memorial.

Among those present at the event were Community Board 5 Chair Walter Sanchez and District Manager Gary Giordano.

“Every fresh coat of paint, repaired play feature and restored park amenity reflects our commitment to creating cleaner, safer and more welcoming public spaces for every community,” Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura said.

City Hall said the Renew Crew will take on up to 30 projects in three weeks or less each year. Repair efforts are underway at a playground in each borough.

The team will get $2.3 million for fiscal years 2027-29, per a City Hall spokesperson.

Deputy Mayor for Operations Julia Kerson

The city’s new Renew Crew is sprucing up Dry Harbor Playground, and will handle general wear and tear at other locations across the city. PHOTO BY ED REED / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE / FLICKR said the Renew Crew will fix playgrounds in “record time,” bringing timelines down from months to just weeks.

The team’s progress can be tracked online at tinyurl.com/2eez5j9c.

“The work of this Renew Crew will extend the lifespans of our parks and playgrounds, save our city untold millions of dollars each year in renovation costs and keep our open spaces in good condition for our families,” Borough President Donovan Richards said.

“Our young people spend their summers on these playgrounds, courts and fields, and they deserve spaces that are safe, cared for and ready for them to enjoy,” City Councilmember and Parks Chair Ty Hankerson (D-Jamaica) said. “I’m looking forward to seeing this crew out there, tools in hand, giving our parks the Q attention they deserve.”

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 10

P School aide bonuses break the law Our seasonal special EDITORIAL

A

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t first thought, the City Council’s move to bestow payments of up to $10,000 to the teaching assistants called paraprofessionals seems like a nice gesture.

The nearly 25,000 school aides face tough tasks, as most of them work with students who have special needs, and they do it for far less money than teachers make.

But that does not mean granting the bonuses, referred to as “stabilization payments” by those who don’t prefer plain talk, was the right thing to do. It’s not, for a number of reasons, which the administration of Mayor Mamdani cited when it sued to block the law last week.

The mayor wisely did not bother to veto the measure, since it passed 49-0, so an override was assured. Nor did he sign it. Instead he waited until it became law and then immediately went to court.

It is not the City Council’s role to determine what paraprofessionals are paid. That gets decided in negotiations between the administration and the United Federation of Teachers, which represents the aides. That’s the law. The stipend bill was written in such a way as to not violate the statute, the state Taylor Law, according to the UFT, but that’s just trickery. The Council is trying to dictate remuneration

to city employees, and that’s just not its job.

Of course the union supports the move; next time it’ll demand special payments for the teachers who make up most of its members. Why? Who knows? It’ll think of a reason. So will every other city union. District Council 37 already has claimed that some workers it represents are entitled to the payments, too, under the bill just passed.

It’ll all cost the taxpayers a fortune, naturally. The cost for the paraprofessional bonuses is tagged at $325 million. It’s probably underestimated. Just imagine what the costs of such bonuses could be as one union after another gets them.

This is the clearest case of a slippery slope one can imagine. If the camel gets its nose under this tent, there will be no stopping it, not with the fidelity most members of the City Council have to the public sector unions. As mayoral spokesman Matt Rauschenbach said, the Council’s move “undermines collective bargaining and sets a dangerous precedent: allowing politicians to bypass workers and their unions and dictate the terms of employment themselves.”

If the aides deserve more pay, and they probably do, the UFT can demand it at the bargaining table. We applaud the mayor for taking a stand for the law and for common sense.

LETTERS TO THE Belmont off track Published every week by

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MARK WEIDLER President & Publisher SUSAN & STANLEY MERZON Founders Raymond G. Sito General Manager Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief Michael Gannon Senior News Editor Kristen Guglielmo Editor Stephanie G. Meditz Editor Andrew Karpan Associate Editor Stela Barbu Office Manager Jan Schulman Art Director Moeen Din Associate Art Director Gregg Cohen Editorial Production Manager Joseph Berni Art Department Associate Dennis O’Brien Proofreader Kristina Raevsky Editorial Intern Senior Account Executives:

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Dear Editor: Congratulations to the New York Racing Association for having almost four years to prepare for the opening of the new Belmont Park but managing, as usual, to ruin everything it touches.

First off, the building is not finished but NYRA already said goodbye to Aqueduct Race Track and cannot go back. Secondly, because the building is not finished, NYRA is having an opening day by invitation only to limit the attendance numbers. This means that after the politicians, so-called VIPs and other dignitaries, who will all leave, probably by the second race, the everyday fans are left out in the cold.

All the loyal horse racing fans should tell NYRA thanks for nothing and stay away from the new Belmont Park.

David Conlin Howard Beach

Fly the flag on 9/11 Dear Editor: Sad to say, another 9/11 anniversary is upon us: the 25th. Everyone should fly the American flag on 9/11 in honor of all those brave men and women who lost their lives on that day of infamy. Every individual should, if he or she can, fly it from homes, offices and other businesses. © Copyright 2026 by MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. All rights reserved.

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oes the summer really have to end? Sorry, it does. We’ll miss it, too. But autumn brings its own joys and interests — and you can get a good start on the season with the Queens Chronicle’s annual Back to School-Fall Guide special section, inside all this week’s papers and at qchron.com.

The stories cover a lot of ground fast. Wondering how students and staff are handling the new ban on phones in schools? Find out in the section’s first article. Next we have the requisite rundown of where new school seats are opening up across Queens. That’s followed by an in-depth look at artificial intelligence in schools, from differing points of view. Did you know kindergarteners are using AI? They are.

Next are pieces related to Catholic schools and college courses, as well as our handy school calendar, ready as always to go right on the fridge.

We also detail the community theater season, run down the fashion runway and recommend a fine day trip to two great museums out east. Enjoy the rest of summer, and start your fall right here in these pages!

E DITOR

Remember that on and after that fateful day, America was bathed in the flag. It is sad to say these flags have all but disappeared. My American flag is the only one flying on my block in Bellerose. I’m 77 years old, I served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam era and today I am a member of several veterans, religious and community groups.

The American flag should fly as a symbol of our nation for it reflects the fabric of our nation, which is truth, justice and freedom for all. I thank everyone for your participation. In closing, may God bless America!

Frederick R. Bedell Jr. Bellerose

Oh, Canada — we’re sorry Dear Editor: Peggy Noonan at The Wall Street Journal just called it “the dumbest trade war in history.”

I’d add rudest and crudest.

The belligerent, damn-the-torpedoes tone,

the off-the-cuff idea that we can rename Lake Ontario grates upon thoughtful sensibility. The solid, respectful relationships that existed between the United States and Canada and the United States and Mexico, underscored by fair, mostly but not wholly, mutually advantageous trade agreements, historically bulwarked our security and bolstered our prestige. These relationships are currently under attack by bluster, threats and now a new 50 percent bizarre tariff on a list of Canadian goods.

Historically, we worked and played well with others. Not anymore. We’re creating confusion, disillusionment and disorder in our own backyard. Ask Maine. We’ve become the “Not Ready for Prime Time Players” on the political stage. We’ve completely lost the edge that strategic diplomacy wields. We’re flouting the well-tested truth that you catch more flies with honey than vinegar. And every parent knows that if you threaten to “turn this car around” you have to do it. If you don’t, you’ll never ever prevail again.

We now negotiate by rhetorical tantrum. Our representative, our voice, has no awareness that people will hunker down to oppose the unreasonable demands of a hostile, threatening opponent. If Godzilla tramples your city, you’ve got to recruit King Kong. The really big one, not the almost cuddly vintage one. Parts of our government are not representing us or our interests. Remember to vote.

Debra Michlewitz Bayside

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Dear Editor: (An open letter to U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer) I worked on your campaign against Sen. Al D’Amato. I did the scut work, wanted to work on your staff and have admired you for many years — but that has changed. Your cowardly, unprincipled unwillingness to condemn the antisemitism of Senate candidate Abdul ElSayed is just the last straw for me.

Is one seat in the Senate for the idea of “a big tent” worth sacrificing your soul, principles and who you are? Viruses spread. It’s already happening in the House with the Squad. This spreads like the poison of how the Nazis came to power. A shanda — shame on you.

I have never liked Jesse Watters, but if his recent interview with El-Sayed didn’t shock you, where is your pulse? Shame on you.

Stew Frimer Forest Hills

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Supposing they’re wrong Dear Editor: Supposition is defined as the “act of supposing.” It is for those people inclined to believe what they want to hear and to see, most times, results in a clouded viewpoint. It’s the kind of opinion that echoes hearsay filled with a certain level of skepticism lacking substance.

Sadly, they have an audience to amuse themselves over sharing half-truths and outright lies.

Their opinions should be prefaced with a disclaimer that reads: “In a universe far, far away ...” Which, by happenstance, coincides with much of what is bandied about on social media and news outlets now. When anything they championed doesn’t come to fruition, it further fuels their malcontent for the world at large. It’s as if they were seeking validation without any evidence of common sense.

Luckily, what they supposed should happen, according to their warped narratives, doesn’t matter in the long run. To find a balance requires leveling the playing field. That’s something conspiracy theorist never comprehend, much less totally know what it is they’re talking about.

It’s like betting on how fast snow melts if temperatures stay below freezing. Stay safe and keep your sense of humor warm.

Craig Schwab Glendale

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For the latest news visit qchron.com

Dear Editor: Today in our city and nation, we have what Jesus called false prophets.

The Democratic Socialists of America, with their dedicated members, have won the mayoralty for Zohran Mamdani and are electing three members of Congress. All this is possible because the typical, moderate Democrat failed to show up to vote in the primaries, allowing the DSA to win easily. What a shame!

Mayor Mamdani, with his message of “the warmth of collectivism,” versus rugged individualism, won over the white, educated class, which for years was indoctrinated in elite universities to despise America, and the low-income class, with the promise of something for nothing.

Now it’s our time, as New Yorkers, to talk to neighbors, family and friends to make it our priority to come out in numbers and vote and support candidates who firmly believe in our Constitution, capitalism and our way of life.

This is our Ronald Reagan moment to defend freedom or lose it for ourselves and future generations. Speak up, New Yorkers!

Thomas and Constance Dowd Oakland Gardens

Smartphones, yet dumb Dear Editor: Decades ago, when televisions gained popularity, they were called “idiot boxes” for their perceived negative effects on the population.

Now, we have “smartphones” that probably have a more detrimental effect of passive consumption on our population, particularly our youth. The current marketing professionals who promoted them as smartphones seem to have preempted a new negative nickname.

Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens

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Dear Editor: It didn’t take long to find the actual reason for opposing outdoor dining, and it isn’t noise, garbage or vermin, it’s parking (“Street dining is no longer the answer,” Editorial, Aug. 20).

A reminder to the Queens Chronicle staff, and car owners citywide, that NYC is a city rich with transit options: buses, express buses, subways, bikes, so many ways to get around town.

Cars are a menace in our densely packed city. Talk about noise, well, I live on a Queens Boulevard cross street, and if I never heard another car horn in my life from drivers honking at a red light, I would be ecstatic. But no such thing, because the neighborhood is dense with cars — and car alarms, car risks and car fumes.

So I am glad they are taking away parking spots. Now they need to charge a monthly fee to park; street parking in neighborhoods should not be free.

In addition, street dining is different, can be interactive and fun. So lighten up, take the subway; all will be fine. Y’all didn’t want a Mayor Mamdani, but he seems to be working out well for us. This will, too.

Peter James Allar Forest Hills

E DITOR

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

LETTERS TO THE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 12

Cleaning up after the storm: What’s next?

Deluge drops up to 2.5 inches in some neighborhoods; twister hits Rockaways

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Maryann Maragioglio of Woodside knew she would have to pump out her 48th Street basement — again — once the storm last Thursday caused water to forcibly eject manhole covers from their place.

Then heavy rains struck again early Sunday morning.

“I’m still pumping my basement,” she said Monday. “It also blew out my garage door.”

The Aug. 20 storm dumped more than 2 inches of rain on some sections of Queens and brought a pair of rare tornadoes that touched down in the Rockaways and western Nassau County.

The storm flooded major highways and led to massive and lengthy delays at John F. Kennedy Inter national and LaGuardia airports.

Figures obtained from the National Weather Service reported 2.25 inches of rain at LaGuardia and in Kew Gardens Hills, with 2.2 inches in Bellerose and 2.1 in Ozone Park.

Other readings in Queens included Long Island City (1.63), Middle Village (1.51) Beechhurst (1.49), and JFK (1.12).

Social media posts and reporters’ videopsfrom throughout Queens showed highways and major streets flooded.

Both tornadoes started as water spouts and came ashore at about 6:30 and 7 p.m.. respectively.

Published reports say the Nassau County tornado caused extensive structural damage in the Atlantic Beach area, though there were no reports of injuries.

No injuries in the Rockaways were reported by Emergency Management personnel in

Maryann Maragioglio of Woodside, here with damaged possessions, was flooded out twice in just a few days. It is a common occurrence when it rains on her street.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN a Friday afternoon email.

“We are assessing damage and asking New Yorkers to visit reportdamage.nyc.gov if your home, business, or property was damaged during yesterday’s storm,” an agency spokesperson said. “Damage reports help assess storm impacts and will determine whether the City is eligible to apply for federal assistance.”

She said New Yorkers can also request city services by visiting nyc.gov/311 or calling 311.

For Maragioglio the storm and the flooding were not a surprise.

The last time it had happened was in July.

The first time?

“Mayor [Ed] Koch came and spoke with my father,” she said.

She said it doesn’t have to be Hurricane Sandy from 2012 or the remnants of Hurri-

The storm on Aug. 20 flooded 188th Street in Fresh Meadows, above, and led to temporary closure of the Long Island Expressway and other major roadways. SCREENSHOT VIA FREEDOM NEWS TV VIDEO cane Ida in 2021 to be a problem.

“Any time there is a heavy rain, the manhole covers blow up,” Maragioglio said. “In July I had 15 feet of water in my house. I lost everything. You have open electric outlets and the water covers the outlets.’

She was just able to grab her dog and a few belongings and rush up to the second floor. “[Thursday] wasn’t as bad, But I got my whole basement, yard and garage flooded.

I’m still pumping out.

“This has to stop.”

Maragioglio blames the diversion of water from the nearby Long Island Expressway, Brooklyn-Queens Expressway and Laurel Hill Road.

“We’re downhill,” she said. “They divert the water and it comes down here.”

She also blames residential construction nearby in recent years for exacerbating the problem, and fears it will get worse with any new housing.

“You’re going to build 60 apartments and connect them to these sewer lines?” she Q asked. “It’s ridiculous.”

Sanctuary standoff for Katz, Congress House Judiciary Committee seeking records on immigrant prosecutions

by Michael Gannon For the latest news visit qchron.com

Senior News Editor

The U.S. House Judiciary Committee on Monday renewed its request that Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz turn over information pertaining to allegations that her office gives preferential treatment to immigrants “to ensure that they do not face i m m ig r at ion c on se que nc e s for t hei r criminality.”

According to a four-page letter dated Aug. 24, Com mit tee Chair man Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) and Chairman Tom McClintock (R-Calif.) of the Subcommittee on Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement, the investigation centers on whether Katz’s office either declines to prosecute or underprosecutes some immigrant defendants.

A committee press release said the same request is being made of Commonwealth’s Attorney Steve Descano of Fairfax, Va. The letter states that the initial request

was made May 27, with a June 10 deadline.

Katz’s office did not respond to requests for comment, but according to the Aug. 24 letter declined to provide the requested information under the 10th Amendment, stating that “[l]ocal decisions to prosecute, or to choose not to prosecute, particular crimes of specific individuals under state law are not province of the federal government.”

The committee responded by saying that failing to prosecute or underprosecuting foreign nationals so that immigration consequences can be avoided “in sanctuary jurisdictions like New York City ... implicates Congress’s plenary power over immigration.”

“The Committee’s request for records is lawful, appropriate, and is not dependent on your office’s policy preferences,” the letter continues. It also states that such a practice, if being applied, may also violate federal civil rights laws.

The Aug. 24 letter demanded that Katz’s

office furnish the requested records no later than 5 p.m. on Sept. 7.

“The Committee may be forced to resort to compulsory process if these requests remain outstanding,” the letter concludes.

The Queens DA’s Office, according to the letter, objected to the scope of the committee’s requests, claiming that it would be impossible to search for “communications dealing with noncitizens.” The DA also reportedly cited concern over disclosure barriers in her June 10 response.

Jordan and McClintock wrote Monday that Katz has not given a rationale as to why record retrieval would not be possible.

“In addition, you have given no indication that your office has attempted to obtain any of the requested information in the three months since you received the Committee’s request,” the lawmakers wrote.

The New York Post reported that the Judiciary Committee back in May made similar

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz has a jurisdictional disagreement with U.S. Rep. Jim Jordan over records relating to her office’s charging and prosecution of immigrants. The House Judiciary Committee has given Katz’s office until Sept. 7 to provide the information.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON, LEFT; U.S. HOUSE PHOTO

requests of the other four borough district attorneys, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Department of Correction ComQ missioner Stanley Richards.

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Phone ban turns into a routine

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

“It’s stupid. It won’t last.”

That was a Richmond Hill High School student named Jay, standing outside the building at dismissal last September, days into New York’s new statewide school phone ban.

He was one of multiple students who told the Chronicle that week that the rollout had its issues — delayed morning bells, jammed magnetic pouches, faculty cutting locks open with scissors.

But the problems waned and the ban — unsurprisingly, and to some students’ dismay — lasted.

As schools prepare to open for a second phone-free year, the educators who spent last fall fielding complaints now describe a policy that has faded into the background of the school day.

Parents stopped worrying, cafeterias got louder, while students, being students, got creative.

“I’ve seen so many ‘second phones,’” said Winnie H., a Bayside resident who teaches at a Manhattan high school.

The teens’ scheme is straightforward, she said: Bring a decoy device. Winnie has seen students turn up with an iPod Touch — the discontinued Apple music player that, at arm’s length, can pass for an iPhone — or an old spare phone they no longer use.

“The kids try to put that in the pouch, so it looks like they’re locking it up, but really their actual phone is buried in the bottom of their backpack,” Winnie said.

“Clearly, that’s not acceptable.”

The Phone-Free Schools Law, which Gov. Hochul signed in 2025 as part of the state budget, bars st udents f rom using personal

i nt e r n e t- e n a ble d d ev ic e s — including smartphones, tablets and smart watches — from the first bell to the last.

Districts were instructed to create their own storage policies, and every school must offer at least one method of storing devices and at least one way for a parent to reach a child during the day.

The regulations carve out exceptions for students who need a device to manage a medical condition, for those whose use is written into an Individualized Education Program or 504 plan, and, case by case, for students routinely responsible for the care of a family member. Simple phones without internet capability are permitted.

In a school system as large as New York City’s, that has meant varying systems for implementation.

One school may issue magneticlock pouches for phone storage that students carry all day and hand to faculty to unlock at dismissal.

Another may have students seal devices in a provided Ziploc bag.

The state says the first year was a success, and it has numbers to back that up. Hochul’s office in June released the results of an endof-year survey of 585 teachers and administrators drawn from every region of the state. Of those polled, 80 percent said the phone-free policy had delivered positive results at their school, and 76 percent reported improvements in classroom behavior a nd h ig her st udent engagement.

Seventy-five percent of those surveyed said their own ability to teach had improved, and 80 percent saw student social connections improve. Sixty percent reported a decline in bullying.

Students at Richmond Hill High School last year were provided lockable pouches to use for phone storage.

PHOTO BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO / FILE

It has been one year since the bell-to-bell cell phone ban in New York schools was first enacted, and reactions have seemingly changed over time.

RDNE STOCK PROJECT PHOTO VIA PEXELS.COM “Our kids succeed when they’re 26 to June 1 found that 77 percent learning and growing, not clicking support banning cellphone use and scrolling,” Hochul said in during class for middle and high announcing the figures. school students, up from 68 perA Woodhaven middle school cent in 2024. teacher told the Chronicle last week More Americans back an all-day that the transition to phone-free has ban than oppose one — 48 percent been seamless at her school, and to 43 percent, compared with just that the loudest early 36 percent support two resistance came years ago. f rom families The generational rather than from divide is stark. Twenstudents. ty-eight percent of “I think at the adults under 30 supstar t of the last port all-day bans, school year, a lot of against 57 percent of parents were caught those 65 and older, x to e off-guard,” she per the survey.

Digital d said. “Some Win nie H. thought it was a told the Chronischool-only polcle last September icy, even though that she expected materials sent to the students’ frustration to parents explained the law. But they fade as they adjusted, and conlet it go really fast.” firmed that’s largely been the case.

Much of the outcry came from “It’s become just part of the daily parents worried about reaching a routine,” the history teacher said. child in an emergency — a con- “The first few weeks, I think, were cern, the teacher said, that tended to hard because the kids needed time dissolve on reflection. to form the habit and get used to “T hose pa rents must have being away from their devices, remembered they didn’t have especially after summer vacation. phones in schools, either,” she said.

I’m not sure if we’ll see that again She speculated that because she this year, but last year, they teaches preteens, those who have adjusted.” smartphones that young may have T he most aud ible cha nge, overprotective guardians. according to a school paraprofes“Mom and Dad can call the sional in Glendale, arrives at lunch. school if there’s something urgent, “I never realized how quiet our just like it’s always been,” she said. cafeteria used to be,” he said. “It’s “And if there’s any emergency at much louder now that there’s actual the school, we’ll call them.” chatter instead of just eyes on The general public has warmed phones and idle scrolling.” to the phone restrictions. A Pew He said he confiscated “a few” Research Center survey of 9,750 devices last year, but once students American adults conducted May saw the rule being enforced, fewer

School

of them were eager to break rules and face possible consequences.

“I think most of them don’t care anymore,” he said.

Whether phone restrictions at school change how much time teenagers spend looking at screens is a different question altogether.

A junior at an Ozone Park high school offered a verdict suggesting the policy may have relocated the problem more than solved it.

“I guess we pay more attention in class, but if someone doesn’t want to pay attention, they just won’t — phone or not,” the student said. “But after school, everyone is on it for hours straight catching up.

I think I stay up later now just because I feel like I missed out during the day.”

She added, “It’s like separation anxiety.”

Beatrice Gomez, parent of a Maspeth middle school student, offered a similar take.

“My son gets home from his afterschool program and he wants to spend forever on his phone,” she said. “He’s 12. I take it away at night at 9, and he gets mad, but what else am I supposed to do? I don’t want to encourage that.”

She said she feels like the device restrictions in school only go so far.

“I think it’s great to force them to pay attention and learn something during class, but social media is so predatory and addictive,” Gomez said. “It’s like, the school can only do so much, but as parents, we have to be mindful of their device usage at home, too. It starts with the parents — giving them a tablet at two is setting them up for Q failure.”

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Page 517QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE, CHRONICLE,Thursday, Thursday,August August27, 27,2026 2026

4GCUQPU

QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE, CHRONICLE,Thursday, Thursday,August August27, 27,2026 2026Page Page186

Boro gains more than 2,500 seats

by Kristen Guglielmo

a new school for students with disabilities in grades six through 12.

Its middle school grades will operate out of Queens will pick up 2,525 new public school seats for the 2026-27 school year, more IS 125, the Thomas J. McCann Intermediate than half of the 4,656 the School Construction School, at 46-02 47 Ave. in Woodside, and its other high school program will be set at WilAuthority is delivering citywide.

The borough’s total comes from two new liam Cullen Bryant High School, at 48-10 31 Ave. in Astoria. buildings, three additions to existing schools The Jamaica building will also and room conversions at four house the Queens High School campuses. for the Sciences, the borough’s The biggest project is an only specialized high school, 876-seat high school building, which the Panel for Educational designated Q497, at 165-15 88 Policy, the 24-member body Ave. in Jamaica. It contains 18 overseeing public schools, standard classrooms and two voted earlier this year to relospecial education classrooms, d e d New, expan cate f rom nearby York plus a District 75 program with College. eight more special educabuildings In Woodside, PS 437, tion classrooms.

West Q Elementary School, a The building also new 451-seat institution, will includes, according to the open at 46-10 70 St. SCA, reading and speech It has 22 standard classrooms and two resource rooms; physical therapy and occupational therapy rooms; art and music community district special education classclassrooms; a library; science labs with dem- rooms, and also includes reading and speech onstration and prep rooms; medical, guidance resource rooms; project and music classrooms; and administrative suites; a community and a library; medical, guidance and administraparent office; a gymatorium and locker rooms; tive suites; a gymnasium and exercise room; a a kitchen and student dining area; a staff lunch kitchen and student dining area; a staff lunch and conference room; and outdoor play space, and conference room; and outdoor play space.

The District 75 program is part of PS 438, per the SCA. Three existing Queens schools are getting the Queens Academy for Innovative Learning, Editor

School

149-19 38th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354

w w w.vomuseum.org 718-359-6227 For news visit qchron.com Backthe tolatest School & Fall Guide 2026

WELCOME! VISIT US THIS FALL!

PS 437Q, West Q Elementary School, will open at 46-10 70 St. in Woodside this fall, adding 451 new seats.

PHOTOS COURTESY SCA additions to their campuses.

PS/IS 116, the William C. Hughley School, at 107-25 Wren Place in Jamaica, is adding 325 seats in 14 standard classrooms and one community district special education classroom serving grades pre-K through eight as part of its new digs.

The fully ADA-accessible addition includes reading and speech resource rooms; art and music classrooms; a science resource room; medical, guidance and administrative suites; a kitchen and student dining area; and a staff lunch and conference room.

PS 95, the Eastwood School, at 179-01 90 Ave. in Jamaica, is adding 229 seats in 11 standard classrooms.

The addition is fully fully ADA-accessible and includes art classrooms, a music classroom, an exercise room, supervisory offices, a parent and community room and a kitchen and student dining area.

JHS 216, the George J. Ryan School, at 64-20 175 St. in Fresh Meadows, is adding 463

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The addition opening this fall at PS/IS 116, the William C. Hughley School, at 107-25 Wren Place in Jamaica, adds 325 additional seats.

Above, one of the school’s new classrooms.

seats in 13 standard classrooms and three special education classrooms, along with art rooms, science labs, student support rooms, administrative suites and a kitchen and student dining area.

Room conversions at four schools account for another 181 total seats: JHS 157, the Stephen A. Halsey School, at 63-55 102 St. in Rego Park; IS 202, the Robert H. Goddard School, at 138-30 Lafayette St. in Ozone Park; Flushing High School, at 35-01 Union St.; and Far Rockaway High School, at 8-21 Bay 25 St. The new seats arrive as the city works to comply with the state class size law, which caps kindergarten through third grade at 20 students, grades four through eight at 23 and high school at 25. Physical education and performance classes can have up to 40 students.

The citywide compliance target for the school year is 70 percent, with a goal of 100 percent compliance by September 2030.

Celeste Ramirez, the SCA’s president and chief executive officer, called the new Queens seats “an important accomplishment for the SCA and a meaningful investment in the students and families of this borough.”

“I am focused on what matters most: helping to meet class size mandates, readying our schools for the first day of classes, and ensuring that we deliver the projects New Yorkers are counting on,” Ramirez said in a statement to the Chronicle.

She said that includes delivering projects safely and on time, prioritizing green and accessible schools and earning the trust of parents, teachers and communities.

The Queens Academy for Innovative Learning and West Q Elementary are two of five new public schools opening citywide this fall, along with the Academy of Cultural Excellence at an existing building at 11-11 40 Ave. in Long Island City, and two others in Q the Bronx.

by Andrew Karpan

the new school year.

But it’s part of a larger political movement Aliya Bonar, a mother in Glendale, says aimed at pausing the use of artificial intelliher 5-year-old son is already being told to use gence in New York public schools.

Over in Albany, state Sen. Robert Jackson artificial intelligence in kindergarten classes.

“He came back from one class and said (D-Manhattan) introduced a bill that would that they were generating images,” she told prohibit the use of most artificial intelligence the Chronicle in an interview. That wasn’t programs in classrooms before high school, what she expected from a public school cod- except for administrative purposes. The bill died in committee during the last legislative ing class aimed at 5-year-olds.

“It is just not age appropriate and not inter- session, but Jackson plans on reintroducing it esting either,” said Bonar. “That to me is in the next one, as does the bill’s sponsor in completely different from a coding class. It’s the other chamber, Assemblyman Robert just kind of a boring application of it. I think Carroll (D-Brooklyn).

“The bigger danger is not preparing kids there’s a lot more thought and intentionality with critical skills and not allowing kids to that can go into it.”

For the last few years, the seemingly limit- see what they are capable of without using AI less possibilities of AI have haunted the edges as a crutch,” Jackson staffer Johanna Garcia told the Chronicle. of modern life, filled with the promise of Not all elected officials, howimmediate changes to the ever, are as leery of the possiworkplace and daily life, and bilities of using AI in the quickly becoming the ecoclassroom. nomic engine of the country.

In fact, if the bill makes it Schools have been slower out of committee, it would run to collectively adapt, with the into some opposition out of city Department of Education Queens. having yet to put out new pubis I A “If our schools are not lic guidance on AI since rollteaching our youth how to ing out preliminary rules verywhere e write a book report using in March. artificial intelligence, we are Bonar, who is also vice doing them a disservice,” president at Community Assemblyman Clyde Vanel Education Council 24, is (D-Queens Village), one of Albany’s most among the parents who want the DOE to use the rules to proactively limit use prominent boosters of AI, told the Chronicle in a recent interview. of artificial intelligence in public schools.

He said he would “oppose a straight ban on At least five CECs — including in Districts 24 and 25 in Queens — have passed the use of any technology per se,” and has a resolutions calling for “an immediate morato- different idea for when students should be rium on the procurement and implementation allowed to use AI in the classroom.

“If early learners are using research tools of new AI technology in NYC public schools,” per the language of one that recent- like search [engines], then they should be able to use artificial intelligence,” said Vanel, ly passed in Bonar’s council.

The parents aren’t alone. Back in June, 24 who chairs the Subcommittee on Internet and members of the City Council signed a letter New Technology in the Assembly.

“The robots will come and take your job addressed to Mayor Mandami and Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels asking to “imme- faster if you don’t know how to use this diately pause the use of generative artificial stuff,” he added.

According to a Gallup survey last month, intelligence in our schools.”

The DOE has yet to respond to the letter, 47 percent of employees in the country say or update its guidance on AI in advance of their workplaces have “integrated” artificial Associate Editor

School

Students in grades as early as kindergarten are already using AI software in public schools. Some proposals would limit AI use to high school, others would limit it for a period of time. PHOTO VIA PXHERE intelligence in some capacity.

“I’m very concerned that if we limit the use of these technologies, we prevent our youth from being competitive in the marketplace,” said Vanel, who has been doing what he can as a legislator to draw attention to the possibilities of AI. In 2023, he scored headlines when he introduced a bill aimed at renters, which he boosted as the first measure in the Assembly to come with a disclosure indicating that AI was used to draft its language.

“It went nowhere,” Vanel admitted about the legislation, which also died in committee.

“People were really scared at the time.”

While he says he hasn’t used AI to draft any other bills, Vanel says he “primarily uses large language models to do my research.”

“How could I close my eyes and not use that tool?” he asked.

These days, he tells the Chronicle, he has a newer idea to get eyes on the potential of artificial intelligence.

“Are you familiar with those robot dogs?” he asked, in reference to the Spot brand of metal canines, recently rolled out by Boston Dynamics and marketed, largely, to police departments.

“I have one in my office now. I bought one for myself that’s going to be able to connect to AI and I’m going to bring it to work next [legislative] year because we can’t be afraid of these tools. We have to master them.”

Parents such as Bonar are less convinced by the urgency of the coming AI revolution.

“Schools are inherently usually five to 10 years behind anyway,” she said. “So why are we in a huge rush to roll out this untested and unproven huge change to our curriculum?”

“To be honest, they haven’t made any explanation about why this benefits students,” said Stephen Kendall, a parent who lives in Bayside and is first vice president of CEC 25.

“Their overall answer has been — and I’ve seen this in multiple meetings — is, well, AI is here,” said Kendall, also dismissive of the idea that a larger AI readiness is needed

in schools.

“We teach kids drug safety. We don’t make them do heroin first to tell them it’s bad.”

Like Bonar, Kendall also sponsored a resolution calling the Department of Education to hold off on implementing AI into schools.

As Kendall puts it, the agency hasn’t done very much to communicate to parents exactly how AI tools will improve the academic lives of their students.

Instead, he says, “there’s been studies showing it can hurt cognitive development and it can harm students’ emotional wellbeing, a lot of this technology.”

A study last year by the media lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology reported that students who used their “brainonly” to write essays revealed “significant differences in brain connectivity,” compared to people in the study who used large language AI models to write essays, with “cognitive activity scaling down in relation to external tool use.”

“I’m a former teacher and there’s no reason to put this tech in front of kids unless we’re really confident it helps them learn and that it’s safe,” said Liat Olenick, a parent who has since turned to running Climate Families NYC, a group of almost 5,000 families across the city that recently started advocating against the use of AI, among other longstanding environmental causes.

“We have seen a lot of passion around this campaign, and around getting AI out of school,” said Olenick. “This is still a new technology and it’s being thrown at kids without any evidence that it helps them learn, but lots of evidence that it hurts their cognitive development and their privacy — you know, it hurts the planet.”

Regardless of policy changes, Olenick says the larger education system is already feeling the impact of artificial intelligence.

“What we’re hearing from college professors, many of whom are in our coalition, is that kids are coming to school and they can’t Q write a paragraph without AI.”

For Back the latest news& visit to School Fallqchron.com Guide 2026

Aliya Bonar, left, wants schools to pause using AI for at least two years, while Assemblyman Clyde Vanel says he wants kids to use AI as soon as they can use search engines and says, “We can’t be afraid of these tools. We have to master them.”

COURTESY PHOTOS

Page 719QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE, CHRONICLE,Thursday, Thursday,August August27, 27,2026 2026

The kids are generating images

QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE, CHRONICLE,Thursday, Thursday,August August27, 27,2026 2026Page Page208

Catholic students start anew

by Michael Gannon

our schools because they offer strong academics, faith formation, a sense of belonging, and The announcement last February that six communities that know and care for each child.

Queens Catholic schools would close — along We are encouraged by the continued interest with a seventh in Brooklyn — becomes real in from families and by the thoughtful work of our schools to welcome students into stable, September.

Sacred Heart in Cambria Heights, St. Bar- faith-filled environments for the coming year.”

Havelka said the diocese has tholomew in Elmhurst, St. Nicholas of Tolenfrom the start been helping famtine in Jamaica, Incarnation ilies with other school options, Catholic Academy in Queens securing f inancial aid and Village, St. Thomas the more. Approximately 60 perApostle in Woodhaven, St. cent, almost 600 of the affected Elizabeth in Ozone Park and students, have been welcomed Our Lady of Trust in Brookinto a new schools in the lyn all had suffered staggering enrollment losses in recent g in diocese.

“The ‘new schools’ are years, in many cases to go When a build e s working hard to welcome a long w it h ag i ng a nd lo c t s mu these student and embrace increasingly expensive to them into the community,” maintain buildings. he said. “Some schools have In an email on Aug. 14, seen large numbers of those Ted Havelka, director for impacted by closing register together. enrollment management and financial assistance for the Diocese of Brook- This has the effect of making that school larglyn’s Office of the Superintendent, said the er, and it also allows the students to remain transition for students has been handled with together and graduate together.”

Havelka said many teachers and leaders care and focus.

“While school closures are difficult and have chosen to stay and join other schools, ref lect real challenges facing many school though he did not have an exact number. Some communities, they are not the full story of schools, he said, welcomed applications from Catholic education in Brooklyn and Queens,” both students and staff.

Messages asking about teacher and staff Hevelka wrote. “Families continue to choose Senior News Editor

School

The former Incarnation Catholic Academy in Queens Village is among six Catholic Schools in Queens that will not reopen when the calender turns to September.

GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE / FILE hirings left with the press offices at the Archdiocese of New York and the Diocese of Rockville Centre on Long Island were not returned.

As for the now-vacant school buildings themselves, the diocese said they are owned by the parishes and that it had no information available.

Havelka did say that while the reduction

SEATS STIL AVAILABL L E FOR TH

process is painful, the diocese has signs of optimism including that many schools are already showing a population growth compared to fall 2025; and the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit that is pending Gov. Hochul’s final approval, which experts estimate “could provide $800 million in financial support for Q students at all types of schools.”

WHERE THE CITY IS OUR CLASSROOM

E 2026-20 27 SCHO OL YEAR

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by Stephanie G. Meditz

sion — and a master’s in special education.

Its winter study abroad program in Greece is bound to fill It’s always sad to see summer go, but that doesn’t make the up quickly, per a spokesperson. Its Center for Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies is running a course on the sociology of start of a fresh academic year any less thrilling.

That’s especially true for colleges in Queens. From fashion food and the Mediterranean diet. Students will learn beyond classes at St. John’s University to air traffic controller training the classroom with tastings and other activities.

East Elmhurst’s Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Techat Vaughn College, there’s always something new to learn.

St. John’s, a large Catholic college in Jamaica Estates nology is working to address a shortage of air traffic controlknown for its pharmacy, nursing and other health programs, lers. The first cohort in its new Federal Aviation Administration-approved training program successfully is offering courses in topics from cryptocurcompleted it last spring. A new group is set to rency to sports betting. The fall semester begin the course in the fall. starts Sept. 2.

Jamaica’s York College is running an accelOther popular ones are in sports analyterated pathway that lets students earn a bacheics, law and technology, virtual fashion merlor’s — in aviation or a related field — and chandising and the legal side of the fashion master’s in five years. The school’s online proindustry. All clinical program courses in its grams in finance and business administration School of Law also have a waitlist, as per a are new, too. spokesperson.

Updated As part of the city’s new Made in NY LaGuardia Community College in Long rk o w e s r u co Media Academy, Bayside’s Queensborough Island City has a new health studies assoCommunity College will offer a new music ciate of science program starting this production bootcamp, starting Sept. 15. Particsemester, which begins tomorrow, Aug. ipants in the 10-week training will learn pro28, across the City University of New duction techniques and get hands-on experience in York system.

The track aims to give students an interdisciplinary founda- recording studio settings.

One common thread among universities — courses in artifition in the health sciences and prepare them for employment or cial intelligence. transfers to related bachelor’s programs.

Vaughn is launching two this semester, which starts Sept. 2 Among the popular new courses at Queens College in Flushing is one in personal finance, which is open to all stu- — one that uses it to enhance liberal arts classes, and another dents and has no prerequisites. Its School of Education also is that is more science and math-oriented.

“Just to have them running will be great, but I also anticilaunching new degrees, such as a bachelor’s in early childhood and childhood education — including with a bilingual exten- pate that the contents of these courses is going to change sigEditor

School

Page 921QUEENS QUEENSCHRONICLE, CHRONICLE,Thursday, Thursday,August August27, 27,2026 2026

At colleges, a new thing or two

There’s plenty to learn this fall semester at area universities, including Queens College.

PHOTO BY ANDY POON / QUEENS COLLEGE nificantly over the next year or two,” said Paul LaVergne, Vaughn’s vice president of academic affairs. “That’s just how fast AI is changing.”

St. John’s “AI for Everyone” class looks to help students understand its impacts, harness its potential and more. Another course focuses on AI in risk managment and insurance markets.

York also is offering a new minor and certificate in “AppliQ cations of Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning.”

The class of 2026 earned over $311 million in scholarships.

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2026-27 public school calendar SEPT. 10, 2026 Sept. 21 Sept. 23 Sept. 24 Sept. 30 Oct. 12 Oct. 20 Nov. 3 Nov. 5 Nov. 11 Nov. 12 Nov. 19 Nov. 20 Nov. 26-27 Dec. 24-Jan. 1 Jan. 18, 2027 Jan. 26-29 Feb. 1 Feb. 2 Feb. 15-19 Mar. 3 Mar. 4 Mar. 9 Mar. 18 Mar. 19 Mar. 26 April 22-30 May 12 May 13 May 17 May 26 May 31 June 8 June 10 June 15-18,21-25 June 19 JUNE 28, 2027

THURSDAY Monday Wednesday Thursday Wednesday Monday Monday Tuesday Thursday Wednesday Thursday Thursday Friday Thursday and Friday Thursday to following weekend Monday Tuesday through Friday Monday Tuesday Monday through Friday Wednesday Thursday Tuesday Thursday Friday Friday Thursday to following Friday Wednesday Thursday Monday Wednesday Monday Tuesday Thursday Tuesday to following Friday Friday FRIDAY

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR ALL STUDENTS Yom Kippur (schools closed) Evening parent-teacher conferences: middle schools and District 75 schools Evening parent-teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools Evening parent-teacher conferences: elementary schools and pre-K Centers Italian Heritage Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day (schools closed) Diwali (schools closed) Election Day (school will be in session remotely for all students) Afternoon, evening parent-teacher conferences: elementary schools, Pre-K centers (early dismissal) Veterans Day (schools closed) Afternoon, evening parent-teacher confs: middle schools and District 75 schools (early dismissal) Evening parent-teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools Afternoon parent-teacher conferences: high schools, K-12, 6-12 schools (early dismissal) Thanksgiving recess (schools closed) Winter recess (schools closed). School resumes Monday, Jan. 2, 2027.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (schools closed) Regents exams administration Professional development for 9-12 and 6–12 schools (no classes in those schools) Spring semester begins (semester-based schools) Midwinter recess (schools closed) Afternoon, evening parent-teacher conferences: elementary schools, Pre-K centers (early dismissal) Afternoon, evening parent-teacher conferences: middle and District 75 schools (early dismissal) Eid al-Fitr (schools closed) Evening parent-teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools Afternoon parent-teacher conferences: high schools, K-12, 6-12 schools (early dismissal) Good Friday (schools closed) Spring recess (schools closed) Evening parent-teacher conferences: high schools, K-12 and 6-12 schools Evening parent-teacher conferences: middle schools and District 75 schools Eid al-Adha (schools closed) Evening parent-teacher conferences: elementary schools and pre-K centers Memorial Day (schools closed) Clerical day for 3K, pre-K, elementary, middle, K–12, District 75 schools (no classes) Anniversary Day / Chancellor’s conference day for staff development (no classes) Regents exams administration Juneteenth (schools closed) LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FOR ALL STUDENTS

Note: Parent-teacher conference dates are citywide.

Check with your school for changes.

For testing dates and other events, visit schools.nyc.gov/calendar.

INFORMATION VIA SCHOOLS.NYC.GOV

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MOVING FORWARD To learn more about Cord Meyer & The Bay Terrace Shopping Center, please visit their websites at cordmeyer.com & bayterrace.com

by Mark Lord

Agnes and Annie Kefalas as Tilly, both members of Actors’ Equity Association, the professional actors’ union.

Drama. Comedy. Musical.

First presented in 2011, the play is laden with Long. Short. homicidal fairies, nasty ogres and 2000s pop Classic. Contemporary.

Whatever your preference in live theater, culture, paying homage to the geek and warrior there’s bound to be something — perhaps many within everyone.

Performances at The Secret Theatre, at 10-10 things — of interest to you during the upcom44 Ave. in Long Island City, are on Oct. 16, 17, ing fall season of local stage productions.

The first curtain to rise will be at Maggie’s 23 and 24 at 8 p.m., Oct. 18 and 25 at 3 p.m. and Little Theater, now preparing for the opening Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $25; or $20 for seniors and stuperformance on Oct. 11 of the ever-popular “Into the Woods,” with a book by James Lapine dents. For more, visit citygateproductions.org.

The Woodside Players of Queens, under the and score by Stephen Sondheim.

An adult fairy tale, the show revolves around guidance of Johnny Culver, have a couple of old and new storybook characters, several taken programs on tap, the first being on Oct. 18, from the Brothers Grimm, as they embark on a when they will make their sixth appearance at QED Astoria, the only female-owned and operjourney of self-discovery.

Under the direction of Amanda Montoni, ated independent arts space in the borough, with musical direction by Ray Naccari, the cast with performances of short monologues and includes Louis DiBono as Narrator; Jessica scenes by local actors.

Showtime is 3 p.m. Admission is free.

Manion as Cinderella; Everett Boyle as Jack (of The venue is located at 27-16 23 Ave. in beanstalk fame); Danielle Fleming as Jack’s mother; Monica Maddock as The Witch; Ally Astoria. For further information, visit the Doss as Little Red; and in the two roles that pro- Woodside Players on Facebook or email them at pel the events that follow, AJ Martinez as The woodsideplayersofqueens@gmail.com.

Annie Kefalas, top, and Emily Ann Banks star in City Gate Productions “She Kills Monsters,” In addition, the group will be offering — while Tiffany McCue as Cassius and Martin Challinor as Brutus also will be working with blades Baker and Alie Campbell as The Baker’s Wife.

Oh, yes, in a bit of species-blind casting, also for free — three performances of H.G. in The Gingerbread Players’ rendition of “Julius Caesar.” PHOTOS BY JULIA CORBETT, LEFT, AND WILL FRENZEL Alan Perkins will appear as Milky-White, Wells’ “The Star,” an apocalyptic science ficSandy Rustin’s play is coming our way cour- ing, Tiffany McCue as Cassius and Gabby Fidis tion short story, at various Queens library locaJack’s haggard cow.

Performances at St. Margaret Parish Hall, at tions. The work, about a rogue star that enters tesy of St. Mary’s Drama Guild for a five-per- as Octavius.

Matthew Frenzel is assistant director.

66-11 79 Place in Middle Village, are on Oct. the solar system, collides with Neptune and is formance run beginning Oct. 24. ith Earth, causAll the familiar characters are on hand, Performances at St. Luke’s Church, at 85 sent on a collision course with 11, 18, 24 and 25 at 3 p.m. and Oct. 23 at 7 p.m. inclu including the traditional British Greenway South in Forest Hills, are on Nov. 7 Tickets, which go on sale Sept. 1, are $30 for ing global panic, explores such theses as he fragility butl butler, Wadsworth, to be played and 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 8 and 15 at 2:30 adults; or $25 for seniors 65 or over and chil- human insignificance and the

by Rich Feldman; Jason p.m. Ticket prices had not been finalized by dren 14 and under. For more information, call of civilization.

Fis Fischedick as Professor Plum; press time. For further information, call (718) Performances of “The (347) 286-8508 or visit maggieslittletheater.org.

D Dennis Schroeder as Colonel 268-7772 or visit gingerbreadplayers.org.

Taking a very different approach to a similar Star” will take place in M Mustard; Lizette Suxo as William Frenzel also serves as president of theme, “She Kills Monsters,” a dramatic come- November and December, Mrs. Peacock; Grey Sercl the Parkside Players, who perform at Grace dy by Qui Nguyen, is the 2026 season-ending with more details to be as Miss Scarlett; and Farah Lutheran Church, at 103-15 Union Tpke. in Forattraction from City Gate Productions, which announced.

Diaz-Tello as Mrs. White. est Hills, and indicated that that group’s next To audition to perform r continues its tradition of presenting less frete a e h T ly at T The director is Kerryclare production will take place in late November and in either presentation, apply quently explored works. w previe Gle Gleason. early December.

Described as “adventurous and heartwarm- equitylibrarytheater.info.

P Performances at St. Mary’s It will be a comedy, and it will mark the “Clue,” based on the cultt ing,” the play, directed by Xenia Danylyszyn, ar auditor auditorium, at 70-20 47 Ave. in directorial debut of longtime Parkside thespian focuses on Agnes Evans, who leaves her child- classic film and the popular Woodside, are on Oct. 24 at 2 p.m. and Phoenix Gray. hood home in Ohio following the death of her board game of the same name, is 7 p.m., Oct. 25 and Nov. 1 at 3:30 p.m., and a Audition dates will be announced soon, as teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s described as a “madcap comedy,” Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she is catapult- though it takes place at a dinner party, the host special Halloween dinner and show on Oct. 31 will additional information on the performances. Visit theparksideplayers.com or the group’s ed into a journey of discovery and action- of which is dead. Of course, it’s a dark and at 7 p.m.

Tickets, which will be on sale beginning Facebook page to keep posted. packed adventure in the imaginary world that stormy night.

As the year-end holiday season draws near, Now, to figure out who did it? And where? Sept. 24, are $25 for reserved seats; $22 for was her sister’s refuge. general admission; and $15 for children 13 and The North Broadway Players will perform a Heading the cast are Emily Ann Banks as And with what? under. The price for the dinner show will be timeless classic with a twist. announced soon. For more information, call “A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play,” by (347) 450-6184 or visit stmarysdramaguild.org.

Joe Landry, offers a unique adaptation staged as William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” a a 1940s radio broadcast, complete with live historical tragedy dealing with the political con- sound effects and a versatile cast of voice spiracy that led to the assassination of the actors.

Roman dictator and the subsequent civil war, is Director Daniel Stravino said in-person audithe next attraction from The Gingerbread Play- tions will take place on Sept. 8, 10 and 15 from ers of Forest Hills.

7 to 9 p.m.; virtual auditions (a one-minute Under the direction of Will Frenzel, it will be monologue) should be emailed to nbplayers@ given an environmental staging, making it feel churchonthehill.org no later than Sept. 15. unusually immersive.

Characters include Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob According to Frenzel, the play will be per- Cratchit, Jacob Marley, Tiny Tim, several formed in its entirety “minus a few things.”

Ghosts and many others.

The actors, who will appear in modern dress, Auditions and performances (scheduled for include Andrew Dinan in the title role, Martin Dec. 4, 5 and 6) will take place at Church on the Challinor as Brutus, John Galligan as Mark Hill, at 167-07 35 Ave. in Flushing.

For more, go online to churchonthehill.org/ Much, though not all, of the cast of “Into the Woods” by Maggie’s Little Theater gathers onstage Antony, Farah Diaz-Tello as Portia and other Q characters, and, thanks to some gender-bend- north-broadway-players. during a recent rehearsal.

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE ANDERSEN Chronicle Contributor

Page 11 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

Fantasies, fairies and fatal acts

Fall

For Back the latest news& visit to School Fallqchron.com Guide 2026

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 12 24

Knits and neutrals are still classic

by Stephanie G. Meditz

Kim M., an employee at Primark, said she hopes to see more pops of bright red or Summer isn’t over just yet, but when orange to mark the season.

“I like to pop out, so it’s kind of depresssome stores put out pumpkins and Halloween decor in July, it’s certainly not too early ing for me,” she said. “It’s manageable and it can be a cute outfit, but I like to stand out.” to get excited about fall fashion.

Perhaps trending color palettes get more As Madison, who works at the Zara in Elmhurst’s Queens Center mall, told the muted with age, as fall offerings for kids Chronicle last week, warm-weather styles were as bright as ever, with lots of pink and are mostly gone for the season, even as tem- purple for girls and red or blue for boys.

Another way to be expressive through peratures remain high.

In their wake are racks of sweaters, vari- clothing is by wearing a graphic tee that ous outer layers in neutral shades and — as aligns with one’s interests.

Lidia Jimenez of Corona, who works at always — plenty of jeans.

Those pieces alone can make for a trendy Cotton On Kids, said the T-shirts are always ensemble. A knitted sweater with jeans is popular among youngsters.

The graphic te “The tees are, just because they tion, for both always a good combination, have a bunc bunch of artists on them, commen and women. ics aand stuff like that, which Classic knitwear can be dressed k id s a l s o r e a l ly l i ke,” up or down, depending onn the shoes Jim Jimenez said. “Especially for and accessor ies wor n gi girls, too. We have Barbie with it. Men might pair a an Moana, stuff like that. and d sweater with a collared Things that are popular.” d shir t, d ress pants and Plenty of kids aren’t matching shoes for the quite ready to go back to office, or with straight ashion F sc school, though — Jimenez sual leg jeans and boots for casual trends said they often come in askor wear. Women might opt for ing for bathing suits, which dark jeans and Chelseaa they w won’t find in her store. te boots with their favorite One tee in the shop’s primary diskirt and sweater, or even a midi skirt play featured pop star Olivia Rodrigo, heels to dress it up.

Mini skirts — over tights in the cold and another Billie Eilish. A hoodie also had weather — also are a good pick with chunky Nirvana’s iconic logo in colorful hues.

Paired with them were baggy jeans of difsweaters. With knee-high boots, they make ferent washes, one of which had butterfly for a stylish, proportional look.

As far as sweaters go, button-down cardi- designs down the legs.

But graphic tees emblazoned with characgans are especially in — plenty were spotted last week at Primark in colors such as ters, artists or other pop culture references have no age limit. Especially popular among light gray, cream, black and beige.

Those hues, as well as deep jewel tones, adults lately is Snoopy, the beloved beagle of are coming back for the fall, as usual. Bur- Charles Schulz’s Peanuts comics.

“I’ve seen a lot of Snoopy stuff, the PJs gundy, olive green and navy blue are especially common, as are various shades of and the sweatshirts and even the handbags, which I think is really cute,” Kim M. said in copper and rich chocolate brown.

You’ll see plenty of solid colors in stores, Primark.

A mer ican Eagle’s Snoopy pajamas, but some patterns as well. Especially popular are polka dots and stripes — The Gap especially of the Halloween variety, have had plenty of striped collared shirts, and been flying off the shelves each season for Aerie’s striped sweatshirts for women come the past several years. The store even offers festive Snoopy sweatshirts, fuzzy socks, in several colors.

Editor

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Fall

These soft cardigans spotted at the Primark in Queens Center mall are especially trendy, in sleek neutral shades such as beige, cream and gray.

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ plushes and more.

Also in style? Being comfortable, and we’re not just saying that.

Matching loungewear sets — especially sweatpants and quarter-zip sweatshirts — are all over the shelves. Two-piece ensembles were spotted at Glendale’s Atlas Park TJ Maxx last week.

The monochromatic looks even came in autumnal shades of brown and brick red. If you wear a set to run errands on a brisk fall day, you’ll be warm and cozy while still appearing put together.

The baggy, oversized aesthetic is still cool, too. For some young men, it’s a signature look.

“Most guys just wear the same thing,” said Sam, a manager at Queens Center’s Hollister. “They all wear the hoodies with the baggy jeans or some type of jeans, or a hoodie and sweats.”

Plaid flannels are another common layering piece for men, typically worn with a basic T-shirt, jeans and boots or sneakers.

But cozy layering pieces are far from the

Athletic and loungewear sets, such as these in TJ Maxx, left, are a cozy way to be stylish this fall. At right, graphic tees including these at Cotton On Kids are always a hit, but especially for youngsters, who can wear their interests on their sleeves at school. Denim is always the star of the fall season, whether it’s a classic blue shade or trendy neutral, such as in this outfit at Zara, right.

only comfortable items that are trending.

Athletic apparel is becoming an evergreen closet staple, even for casual wear. World Cup season may have passed, but with the US Open back in town, there has never been a better time to don your best track pants, tennis skirt or team merchandise.

Women’s sets consisting of leggings and athletic tops are especially in — perfect for getting a workout in, grabbing a pumpkin spice latte and browsing fall decor on a leisurely day off. Leggings of the flared variety are in demand, as are the nostalgic foldover types, known to some simply as yoga pants.

Also in the athletic realm, polo shirts are always in while it’s still warm enough for them, and they can easily make for a sporty or business casual look.

Windbreakers also are a classic outer layer for those summer-into-fall transition days in September when it’s a bit breezy, but not exactly cold.

Cozy clothes may be hot this fall, but denim will always be the star of the season.

Dark washes can be dressed up easily, and lighter washes worn more casually. Shoppers also can decide what fit and style works best for them, whether it’s low-rise, flare, boot-cut or classic straight.

And your choice of denim doesn’t even have to be blue. Throwing black or dark gray jeans into the mix can be a stylish way to mix things up, while also keeping it classic. The same is true for denim jackets.

For footwear, it doesn’t get more autumnal than nice black or brown boots. Just be sure you have a belt to match your favorite pair, and for women, a purse in a complementary shade can complete any look.

Sneakers are always good, especially with one of those trendy sport sets, but be sure they can keep your feet warm in the cold and dry in the rain.

For now, enjoy the last of sandals season, and get ready to save your f lip f lops for Q inside the house.

Page 13 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 14 26

Stagecoaches and stage stars

by Michael Gannon

The museum has about 200 horse-drawn vehicles in the collection in a multifloor disWalk into the Long Island Music and play where one could spend 30 minutes or a Entertainment Hall of Fame in Stony Brook, few hours trying to take it all in. Some go LI, and the first thing you see in the vestibule back to the 18th century. Some are simple as is a tribute to inductees Cyndi Lauper of such vehicles go, but still finely crafted carriages and coaches that upper society would Ozone Park and The Ramones of Forest Hills.

Enter the world-famous horse-drawn car- use routinely.

Those of European royalty are often ornate, riage collection of the Long Island Museum half a mile down the road and the second as they were not commissioned to not be thing you will see — among carriages once noticed as they carried their passengers.

Along with Leavitt’s wagon that brought owned by the American aristocrats and European royalty — is a vintage-1900 horse- produce to market are other utilitarian vehidrawn vegetable wagon owned by G. Howard cles such as firefighting rigs, and one from Leavitt, a prosperous farmer and landowner Massachusetts that looked to be the grandfather of modern buses. in Bayside.

One of the smaller carriages, upon closer Both museums pride themselves on coverinspection, is actually actua a sleigh, with runners ing all of geographic Longg Island. Both in pl place of wheels. ctions and new offer family-friendly collections A And a section of carriages exhibits they are sure will entice visima made by the firm Studebaker ough. tors from The World’s Borough.

Br Brothers, founded in 1852, “A lot of people in Nasbbegins with an 1885 carsau and Suffolk still have ri riage. Going left to right family in the boroughs,”” brings newer and newer said Joshua Ruff, co-execmodels, ending with a utive director of collec1902 gasoline-powered tions and programing at LI museums hhorseless carriage. um. the Long Island Museum. love Queens Just past the Studebakers ll “We’re connected, and we’ll is tthe reassembled Graves always be connected.”

Brot hher s Ca r r iage Shop, a Ruff’s museum actuallyy real 19t 19th-century manufacturing hape of sells stuffed toys in the shape and repair business from WilliamsLong Island. And he said Queens resiburg, Mass., with some of the original dents will find plenty of Queens on display.

“This is a world-class museum on the machinery, pullies and conveyor belts still North Shore of Long Island,” he said. “It is a in working order.

The grounds also host the reconstructed Smithsonian affiliate. Some of our collections draw visitors internationally as they relate to 19th-century Samuel H. West blacksmith transportation history and the horse-and-car- shop, among other historic buildings.

The art museum, which has two galleries riage era. That collection on its own is a with rotating exhibits, was closed the day the unique collection.”

Chronicle visited, but on Aug. 20 it began hosting “Enduring Heart: Native American Long Island,” which runs through Dec. 20.

It includes the work of 20 native American artists from across Long Island, as well as numerous historic artifacts.

The History Museum just across the street from the Carriage Museum has a pair of exhibits separated by 200 years, but with enough historic similarities to warrant being next to each other.

“Long Island in the ’70s” takes a look at the culture, sports and toys from the 1970s. There is typical 1970s Long Island living room with a patterned sofa and chairs, coffee table and a record player with a Billy Joel album on the turntable. There also is a video game controller on the floor near the requisite 800-pound cabinet color television.

Out in front of the house is an AMC Matador station wagon on loan from its original owner. And yes, it is avocado green with wood side panels.

The section on sports documents the founding of the New York Islanders expansion hockey team in 1972; and a year later, the National League pennant-winning “Ya’ Gotta A long-ago Ramones concert is memorialized Believe” New York Mets.

The section on politics includes a camin the vast and eclectic collection of the Long paign poster for Forest Hills resident GeralIsland Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame. dine Ferraro’s first campaign for Congress.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON Senior News Editor

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Fall

A well-to-do family takes a ride on what appears to be a chilly day in one of the displays at the Long Island Museum’s Carriage Museum.

PHOTO COURTESY LONG ISLAND MUSEUM But it also devotes much space to the political and social tumult of the closing years of the Vietnam War. “The Seat of Action: Long Island in the American Revolution and Beyond” features the history of and artifacts from the American Revolution on British-occupied Long Island.

It features letters, the published works and portraits of LI’s rebellious patriots. There are some period weapons and tributes to the Culper Spy Ring, whose members smuggled intelligence to George Washington and his troops.

Both exhibits run through Oct. 18.

Down the street at the Hall of Fame, the roster of inductees from Queens seems to cover every part of the borough and every genre from classical to hip-hop.

The list, along with Lauper and The Ramones, includes Simon and Garfunkel, Run DMC, Tony Bennett, Salt-N-Pepa, the Shangri-Las, Louis Armstrong, Count Basie, Carole King, Al Kooper, LL Cool J, Melanie, DJ Hurricane, Morton Gould and Leo Kraft to name a few.

The honorees also include Native American artists who play and perform their traditional music.

“I don’t think you have more types of music honored in any one place than we have here,” said Chris Collora, public relations manger for the museum.

Created just for music in 2003, the Hall inducted its first members in 2006.

“In the years before Covid we had a bus museum,” said co-founder Norm Prusslin.

“We had a lot of items but they were in storage.”

They moved into their building in 2022.

“This honors the past, the present and the future of music in Long Island,” he said.

The Hall of Fame gallery has numerous artifacts, costumes and memorabilia, as well as photos of the honorees year by year.

The two temporary exhibits honor Forest Hills native Ray Romano and Hicksville’s favorite son, Billy Joel.

The Romano exhibit is a tribute to the 30th anniversary of the 1996 debut of the hit TV

series “Everybody Loves Raymond.”

The living room and kitchen sets from the series have been reassembled and adorned with many of the original props and costumes, complete with lifesize cutouts of stars Romano, Patricia Heaton, Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle. There also scripts and backstage photos.

The Billy Joel Collection contains many items loaned or donated by Joel himself, including his motorcycle, costumes from videos and memorabilia from concerts and his old band and even his prized accordion.

Prusslin and Collora said Joel has been a good friend of the Hall of Fame. He has visited several times and helped out with a previous exhibit.

Neither exhibit has a set closing date.

The Long Island Museum is located at 1200 Route 25A, Stony Brook. It is open 11:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday and noon to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday except for holidays. Admission is free after 5 p.m. on Thursdays.

Tickets can be purchased at the LIM Visitors Center across Route 25A from the Carriage Museum. Tickets are $15 for adults; $10 for seniors and children 6 to 17; $5 for persons with disabilities, with personal assistants admitted free; and free for museum members and active or retired members of the military.

Information on group tours is available at longislandmuseum.org or (631) 751-0066.

The Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame is located at 97 Main St. in Stony Brook. It is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets are $36 for adults and teens 13 and over; $18.50 for children 6 to 12; $33 for seniors 65 and over and veterans; and $21.50 for students. Children under 6 are free.

Tickets can be pu rchased at limusichalloffame.org or in person if available.

Additional information is provided at info@ limusichalloffame.org or by phone at (631) 689-5888.

Both museums are not far from the Stony Brook train station or, for drivers, the northern Q end of Nicolls Road.

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The Woodhaven Business Improvement District handed out hundreds of backpacks at its back-to-school event on Aug. 21 at Chase Plaza, near the intersection of Forest Parkway and Jamaica Avenue.

“It went well,” Woodhaven BID Executive Director Cathy Williams, above left at center, told the Chronicle. “It was a beautiful day. We gave out over 325 backpacks.”

The event was sponsored by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr., Flying Food Group JFK, Fine Fair and Compare Foods.

Addabbo, Councilmember Joann Ariola and Flying Food Group brought the backpacks and

school supplies, while Fine Fair donated water bottles and Compare Foods provided snacks.

Assisting the BID in distributing backpacks to the neighborhood’s families were Faran Sharif of Addabbo’s office, above left, and Phyllis Inserillo, Ariola’s chief of staff.

Flying Food Group also supplied the afternoon’s raffle prize — a new HP laptop — though attendees did not know what they were entering to win.

“It was a mystery raffle,” Williams said. “We didn’t want to tell people what the prize was.

But when we told the winner what he won, he was so happy.”

— Kristen Guglielmo

Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

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Ramos billed hotels, travel twice: report The New York Times finds matching amounts billed to campaign, state

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

State Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) reportedly billed the same lodging and travel expenses twice, charging them to her campaign while also being reimbursed by the state Legislature, a New York Times investigation found.

According to the Times story, published Aug. 21, there were more than 50 instances in which the dollar figures Ramos’ campaign paid for train tickets matched the ones she was reimbursed by the state at the same time. The article also says she received legislative stipends to cover hotel costs that were billed to her campaign as well.

Overlapping charges from 2021 to 2025 totaled more than $30,000, The Times’ analysis showed.

For the story, the outlet compared Ramos’ campaign disclosure records to her state travel documents. Credit card transactions and written communication via text and email were obtained.

Reporters also interviewed former staffers who recalled double billing, telling The Times she charged her own hotels and train tickets to the campaign while getting reimbursed for them by the state.

Among the former aides interviewed was Astrid Aune, once Ramos’ chief of staff. Aune told The Times the senator would receive state payments for travel and lodging, then share hotel rooms with female staffers so the charges could be billed to her campaign. Campaigns can cover travel expenses for staff members, but the state does not.

Aune is quoted in the story as saying the Senate never proactively trained staff about which expenses qualified for reimbursement.

Reached via phone Tuesday, Aune referred the Chronicle to the Times piece and declined to answer further questions.

The Chronicle’s several attempts to reach Ramos by phone were unsuccessful. Her Senate office also did not answer requests for comment via email and phone.

She has not been accused of a ny wrongdoing.

Ramos has represented Western Queens in the state Senate since 2019. Her reelection bid

Astrid Aune, left, a former aide to state Sen. Jessica Ramos, right, was among those who told The New York Times that the senator double billed hotel and travel costs. PHOTO BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE this year was upset by Assemblymember Jessica González-Rojas (D-East Elmhurst), who bested her in the June primary. GonzálezRojas’ campaign declined to comment.

Before that loss, Ramos ran unsuccessfully for mayor last year. Leading up to the primary, she endorsed former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, whom she previously had criticized.

St. John’s University political analyst Brian Browne said the reported double billing raises “serious questions” about recordkeeping and oversight in legislative offices and campaigns.

Public officials are expected to keep campaign funds and expenses paid for by taxpayers separate, Browne continued, and potentially commingling the two streams could form a deeper river of problems “for this lame-duck legislator and others.”

“If the same expense was paid twice, it could raise issues related to ethics, disclosure, and reimbursement compliance,” he said. “If two sources reimbursed the same travel expenses, regulators could view that as improper double-billing, regardless of the amount reimbursed.”

But the practice is a “tale as old as time” in Albany, he noted. Former District 25 Assem-

Blood donors urgently sought Donors of all blood types are asked to contribute as the region continues to face what the New York Blood Center calls an unprecedented blood emergency.

To make an appointment, one may visit nybc.org. There are several upcoming blood drives in South Queens: • Knights of Columbus Council 197, 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 5, in the main hall at 94-04 Linden Blvd. in Ozone Park; blood drive coordinator Paul Eggert; • Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9, at

89-00 Van Wyck Expwy. in Richnond Hill; blood drive coordinator Elmer Ariza; • Geordie’s Joint, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 12, at 79-19 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven; blood drive coordinator Patricia Robinson; • NYPD 106th Precinct, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 22, at 103-53 101 St. in Ozone Park; blood drive coordinator Sgt. Navdeep Singh; and • Holy Child Jesus Church, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 27, at 111-02 86 Ave. in Richmond Hill; blood drive coordinator Q Helen Aviles.

blymember Brian McLaughlin in 2009 was sentenced to 10 years in prison for racketeering and other crimes, including misappropriating more than $32,000 from the state and submitting false claims for reimbursement. He was released in 2014.

Former Jamaica Assemblymember Bill

Scarborough was sentenced to 13 months in prison in 2015 after he was convicted for wrongful receipt of per diem payments from the state. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York said he had submitted 174 false travel vouchers. Scarborough was contacted for this story, but declined to comment.

The Times reported that at least 130 current and former state lawmakers from 2021 to 2025 used their campaigns to pay for lodging or train tickets while also getting money from the state.

Ben Weinberg, director of public policy at good government group Citizens Union, said the Legislative Ethics Commission should examine how widespread the practice is.

“The fact that activities like this went unnoticed for years raises serious questions about oversight and enforcement, and whether lawmakers are being held to the standard of accountability they’re elected to uphold,” Weinberg said in an emailed statement.

The Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government cannot confirm, deny or comment on the existence of an investigation.

Officials said the commission remains committed to ensuring integrity in government and administering state ethics laws.

State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli’s office Q said it is reviewing the Times story.

Inert grenade found in HB A fisherman came across a surprise in Howard Beach on the evening of Aug. 21 when he netted in an inert grenade, according to police.

The NYPD received a call at 9:45 p.m. reporting an explosive device found in the rear of 164-49 Cross Bay Blvd., cops said.

Upon arrival, officers were told a fisherman had pulled a grenade from his net and placed it on the shore.

Patrol officers and the Emergency Service Unit established a safe perimeter, cops said, and the Bomb Squad was requested.

The device was determined to be inert and removed to Rodman’s Neck in the Bronx by the Bomb Squad.

Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). One may also submit tips by going to crimestoppers.nypdonline.org; or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and entering TIP577; or by going to @nypdtips on X. Q All tips are strictly confidential.

— Kristen Guglielmo

Man robbed on train: cops A man is sought by police for a robbery on the A train last week in Ozone Park, within the confines of the 106th Precinct.

Cops said that on Aug. 17 at 5 p.m., a 35-year-old man was on a Queensbound A train approaching the 88th Street station when an unidentified male punched him in the face.

A physical altercat ion ensued, police said, during which the victim dropped his phone. The perpetrator took it and exited the train on foot, traveling in an unknown direc-

tion. The victim sustained minor injuries and was not hospitalized.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). One may also submit t ips by goi ng on l i ne t o crimestoppers.nypdonline.org; o r b y t e x t i n g 2 74 6 3 7 ( C R I M ES ) a nd e nt e r i ng T I P577; or by goi ng t o @nypdtips on X. All tips are strictly confiQ dential.

Police want this man in connection with a robbery in Ozone Park.

PHOTO COURTESY NYPD

washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use and following any activity when contaminaPortofino Ristorante in Fortion may have occurred; est Hills has been closed by the • establishment is not free of city Department of Health and harborage or conditions conduMental Hygiene, records show. cive to rodents, insects or other The Italian eatery at 109-32 pests; Ascan Ave. was shuttered after • pesticide not properly an Aug. 15 inspection, during labeled or used by unlicensed which a slew of violations were individual. Pesticide, other issued. A DOHMH spokesperPortofino Ristorante son said the closure was “due to PHOTO BY toxic chemical improperly imminent public health hazSTEPHANIE G. MEDITZ used /stored. Unprotected, unlocked bait station used; and ards.” The allegations were: • non-food contact surface or equipment • food items stored at temperatures above made of unacceptable material, not kept the ones required; clean, or not properly sealed, raised, spaced • live roaches in a food or non-food area; • filth flies or food/refuse/sewage associ- or movable to allow accessibility for cleaning ated with flies or other nuisance pests in on all sides, above and underneath the unit.

The Chronicle tried calling Portofino sevfood or non-food areas; • food, supplies or equipment not protect- eral times, and heard only an automated ed from a potential source of contamination message. The restaurant also did not respond during storage, preparation, transportation, to social media messages.

The notice was still on the door Wednesdisplay, service or from customer’s refillable, reusable container. Condiments not in day morning. Another posted sign said the single-service containers or dispensed eatery would be closed for renovations until Aug. 21. Portofino in an Aug. 13 Instagram directly by the vendor; Q • food contact surface not properly post said it was under new ownership.

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

MAPS COURTESY PJ MARCEL

Fresh way t support HB kids The Howard Beach lemonade stand route returns Aug. 29 and 30, sponsored by the Howard Beach Dads Facebook group. During the event, kids host pop-up stands simultaneously.

To view larger maps or for more information, one may visit tinyurl.com/fs5z3nzx.

Saturday’s participating households, at left, are 151-19 80 St.; 161-19 95 St.; 158-18 86 St.; 156-34 79 St.; 156-16 88 St.; 88-16 164 Ave.; 160-20 97 St.; 80-07 151 Ave.; 158-04 80 St.; 156-34 87 St.; 96-03 156 Ave.; and 89-11 158 Ave.

Page 31 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

Portofino Ristorante shuttered by the city

Sunday’s participants, right, are 95-12 162 Ave.; 156-38 78 St.; 161-20 99 St.; 163-38 99 St.; 163-30 99 St.; 156-19 91 St.; 156-37 90 St.; 102-16 1 St.; 164-45 92 St.; 158-39 80 St.; 164-12 99 St.; 157th Avenue and 84th Street in front of St. Helen Catholic Academy and Father Dooley Hall; 164-09 92 St.; 163-26 97 St.; and 157th Avenue and 86th Street.

The following will be out all weekend: 16311 96 St.; 157-54 80 St.; 161-12 90 St.; 16203 95 St.; 149-03 85 St.; 96-16 161 Ave.; and 162-46 97 St.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 32

Work can go on at MidVille BESS site PHOTOS COURTESY SHERRY ALGREDO

River Fund fights child poverty

For the latest news visit qchron.com

The River Fund distributed thousands of backpacks filled with school supplies on Aug. 22 on Lefferts Boulevard in Richmond Hill at its annual Child Poverty Awareness Day, held alongside the nonprofit’s weekly grocery distribution.

Founder Swami Durga Das, top center, worked the event with staff and a large team of volunteers, making sure every child in the long line went home with a backpack, according to Community Board 9 Chair Sherry Algredo, who helped assist during the event.

Others who stopped by to volunteer and show support included Assemblymember

Khaleel Anderson, state Sen. Leroy Comrie, Councilmember Lynn Schulman; Raimondo Graziano, chief of staff for state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr.; Anthony Lemma of Assemblymember David Weprin’s office; and Darin Sawan, the Queens representative for the city’s Office of Mass Engagement.

Resorts World New York City presented the River Fund with a check for $70,000, top, in honor of the nonprofit’s annual Child Poverty Awareness Day. MetroHealth handed out coloring books and crayons to the kids, and Mrs. Met made an appearance, much to the delight of the children (and Mets fans) there.

— Kristen Guglielmo

Paper shredding in HB, 8/29 To help their constituents clear out files and properly dispose of personal or medical papers with sensitive informat ion, st ate Sens. Joe Add abbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) and Roxanne Persaud (D-Brooklyn, Queens) are partnering to sponsor a free paper shredding event.

On Aug. 29, in the St. Helen Church parking lot at the intersection of 157th Avenue and 84th Street in Howard Beach, attendees can bring documents to be safely and securely shredded, from noon to 2 p.m. The process can be observed through a small window on the shredding truck.

Items that cannot be shredded include any cardboard, newspapers, file folders and metals or plastics. Staples should be removed prior to shredding.

There will be a three copy box limit per person to ensure that all participants have the opportunity to shred their materials. Only personal files are allowed; no business or commercial files will be shredded.

For more information about the event, one may contact Addabbo’s office at (718) 738-1111, or Persaud’s office at (718) 649-7653.

DOB stop-work order lifted, earthwork OK’d; construction to resume ‘shortly’

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The city Department of Buildings on Tuesday lifted its stop-work order halting const r uction on NineDot Energy’s battery energy storage system in Middle Village.

The agency first issued the order for 64-30 69 Place on July 1, after DOB inspectors deter mined that the work being done, which involved the use of an excavator for digging, fell outside the scope of the permit then issued to NineDot’s contractor, GA Industries. Work continued the next day, and the DOB issued another violation for alleged failure to comply with its stop-work order.

But during the Aug. 25 Work on the battery farm in Middle Village opposed by area leadinspection, the DOB found ers such as Councilmember Phil Wong, with mic, can resume, that the contractors had all the after a stop-work order was lifted.

PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ required permits — including the one needed for excavation, which was addressed. issued Aug. 18 — site conditions matched the The contractors had admitted to the two approved plans and all prior violating condi- violations prior to the OATH hearing and paid tions were corrected. The stop-work order was a combined $12,500 penalty for both. That lifted, meaning construction can proceed. eliminated their need to attend the hearing, That inspection came after City Council- but did not absolve them of the DOB violamember Phil Wong (D-Maspeth) sounded the tions. The agency inspection, which occurred alarm Aug. 21, saying an Office of Adminis- Tuesday, was needed, and the violating conditrative Trials and Hearings date for the viola- tions had to be corrected. The agency found tions had been set for Sept. 8, but records that they were. appeared to show that the matter was resolved “DOB’s Office of Technical Certification beforehand. He said as of last Friday that a and Research performs extensive review of all concrete vault installed during prohibited BESS applications, and both DOB and FDNY work was still at the site. have strict regulations related to battery enerWong wrote a letter to DOB Commissioner gy storage systems that ensure that these projAhmed Tigani that same day, criticizing the ects meet the highest safety standards,” the agency’s handling of the situation and lament- agency said in a statement. “In addition, all ing his office’s lack of involvement. construction projects under our purview must “For more than a month, my office repeat- comply with the city’s robust safety standards edly asked to speak with DOB, including its and inspection protocols.” attorneys, because my staff witnessed what The DOB said Friday that it was reviewing happened,” Wong said in a press release. “I Wong’s letter and would respond. appreciate the inspectors who came out and NineDot said Tuesday that it would resume did their jobs, but I am disappointed with how construction shortly, pursuant to DOB approvthis was handled afterward and believe the als. It expects most construction activities to community deserves a full explanation.” end by next spring, and for the project to be Wong’s staffers were allegedly assaulted by operational by next summer. workers at the site on the days the violations NineDot said the project will bring clean, were issued. He and numerous other area reliable energy to the neighborhood and folleaders have long opposed the Middle Village low the country’s strictest battery storage lithium-ion BESS, which is near a school, safety and construction rules. homes, an animal hospital, multiple childcare “When completed, this site will improve facilities and more. He also is calling for fur- the resilience of the local power grid, one that ther environmental review at the site. has experienced multiple power outages this The DOB on Tuesday had yet to receive summer — and will help reduce carbon emiscertificates of correction — the paperwork sions, which contribute to the devastating needed to officially close the violations — but floods seen recently in Middle Village,” the Q said all the violating conditions had been company said in a statement.

Tennis nonprofit sends 15 kids to the US Open. Seven are from Queens.

Andrew Karpan Associate Editor

Nearly 90,000 young people go through the New York Junior Tennis & Learning program every year. And every year, some of them are lucky enough to nab volunteer work as ball kids at the US Open.

“This year, 15 of our young people are going and seven of those 15 are from Queens and will be part of the ball crew,” said Udai Tambar, a former staffer in the de Blasio administration who now runs the tennis nonprofit, which is

one of the biggest such outfits in the country.

The group has been around since 1969, when it was founded by celebrated tennis players Arthur Ashe and Charlie Pasarell and the biotech businessman Sheridan Snyder.

Despite the connection to tennis royalty, being involved in the group doesn’t give players a direct leg up in getting a coveted spot on the US Open’s ballkid teams. Instead, there’s an extensive try-out process and the kids who win that get to do it.

All told, approximately 315 youngsters get to work the spots during the US Open, which runs at Flushing Meadows Corona Park until Sept. 13.

“The thing is with the young people who try out for the ball crew, you know, there’s no sort of a quota for NYJTL kids,” Tambar told the Chronicle.

“I think the way we train them to play tennis and how to handle pressure, I think all of that sort of prepares them to do well in the tryouts,” he says.

But the big thing the NYJTL program does, Tambar says, is make kids aware they could be ballkids at the US Open.

That’s a big part of trying out for the program, being aware of it.

Page 33 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

These kids are all having a ball, or two

Kento Smith, above, and Jayden Wong, left, are two kids from Queens which New York Junior Tennis & Learning is touting as volunteer ballkids at the US Open.

COURTESY PHOTOS “There’s not a sort of a formal program [at NYJTL] for the tryouts,” he said. “What we do in our programs is make them aware of that opportunity. Not many of the kids would have known about the tryouts if it wasn’t for us.”

Some of the lucky youngsters said their time in the program helped out.

“I believe during the tryouts, my diverse learning experiences with NYJTL allowed me to smoothly collaborate with people regardless

of experience and on-court habits,” read a statement from Kento Smith, a 15-year-old from Briarwood who landed one of the spots.

“Over the years, I learned valuable skills such as athleticism, focus, discipline, communication, teamwork and mental resilience,” read a statement from Jayden Wong, a Bronx High School of Science student from Bayside.

“These qualities helped me succeed during ball Q crew tryout ... in and out of school.”

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 34

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by Stephanie G. Meditz

Families, duos and even solo visitors can enjoy one of many vehicles available for orr rent, including surreys, coupes and tandem bikes. Wheel Fun’s iconic surreys, or carriages with pedals, are covered by canopies.

The single surrey can hold three people — two of whom pedal — and two small children in a front basket. It’s perfect for an afternoon date, or to take youngsters for a ride through the park.

Up to six adults — four of them pedalers — and two small children can fit in a

double surrey. It’s a good option for a doub ble date or group outing between friends, according to Wheel Fun’s website.

One Ye l p review of Wheel Fun by Alice K. of Flushing from last year said it was “lovely to see the cherry blossoms” just starting to bloom while riding a surrey.

Two adults and two small children can ride in a deuce coupe, and adjustable seating lets passengers of all

Have Wheel Fun in the sun in Flushing Meadows

sizes — from age 2 to 80 — pedal simultaneously.

Couples might enjoy riding a tandem bike, which Wheel Fun said also is a good option for younger or less experienced cyclists. But youngsters who can do it all on their own can take out a kid-sized bike.

You don’t need a plus-one to take a ride through the park, either. To go sightseeing solo, one might rent a chopper, described as “a laid back cruisin’ machine,” a quad sport or cruiser bike.

Included with every bike rental is the selected vehicle, a bike lock, helmets and a basket or bike bag for belongings. continued on page 37

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Looking for a fun, family-friendly way to get outside and enjoy the summer sun while it’s still here?

Flushing Meadows Corona Park has just the thing for you. With Wheel Fun Rentals, on the northern edge of Meadow Lake and at David Dinkins Circle, folks can rent bikes, kayaks, pedal boats and more to take in all that Queens’ largest park has to offer.

“We are honored to have the privilege to serve patrons to this wonderful park and we take pride in offering these services affordably and professionally,” Wheel Fun says on its website.

Page 35 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 36

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

King Crossword Puzzle David Krumholtz hit the stage from Forest Hills

ACROSS

1 Doves’ home 5 Coach Parseghian 8 Beach crawler 12 Pizza cooker 13 Greyhound vehicle 14 -- Martin (cognac) 15 Bread sellers 17 Sheltered 18 Hogwash 19 Thespians 21 Sheriff’s star 24 Hold sway 25 Jealousy 26 Stalks for soups 30 Finale 31 Give it a go 32 Man-mouse link 33 Sets of prayer beads 35 Big gulp 36 Eyeglass frames 37 Lake flock 38 Hoi -41 Enjoy Aspen 42 Mayberry young ‘un 43 Officials with seals 48 Ivy in Philly 49 Literary collection 50 Corporate symbol 51 Perimeter 52 Actress Myrna 53 Winter blanket

DOWN 1 Corn core 2 Eggs 3 Shatner’s “--War”

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

4 Vigor 5 Slightly 6 Regret 7 Military attacks 8 Moon cavity 9 Move, in Realtor lingo 10 Pt. of U.S.A. 11 Tournament passes 16 Caviar base 20 “Pinocchio” fish 21 “Cheers” order

22 Part of A.D. 23 Film formats 24 Point -- Peninsula 26 Record holder?

27 “The Music Man” setting 28 Ireland 29 Droops 31 Small combo 34 Dahl of films 35 Marble cake patterns

37 Reggae relative 38 Vatican leader 39 Pundit’s piece 40 TV journalist Lisa 41 Remain 44 Lennon’s partner 45 Charged bit 46 Conceit 47 Plant seeds

Answers on next page

For the latest news visit qchron.com

PROUD SUPPORTER OF OUR LOCAL INSTITUTIONS CULTURE LAB LIC HOUR CHILDREN HUNTERS POINT PARKS CONSERVANCY JACOB RIIS SETTLEMENT HOUSE KIDS RIDE CLUB LIC ARTISTS LIC COMMUNITY BOAT HOUSE LIC CULTURAL ALLIANCE LIC YMCA MOMA PSI MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE NYC KIDS RISE PURSUIT QUEENS MUSEUM QUEENS PUBLIC LIBRARY URBAN UPBOUND

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PLAXALL.COM

Michael Krumholtz was born on Sept. 5, 1941 in New York City. He became a postal clerk in the Murray Hill Station in Manhattan. He fell in love with Judy Liss, a dental assistant, and they married in 1976.

The couple set up home at The Saxony at 67-40 Booth St. in Forest Hills along with Judy’s daughter, Dawn, who had been born earlier, in 1972. The boyhood home of actor David Krumholtz was in The SaxThey had a child of their own, ony at 67-40 Booth St. in Forest Hills, seen as it looks now.

GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET BY MINGLEMEDIATVNETWORK VIA WIKIPEDIA David, on May 15, 1978.

David started acting at age 13 in theater, with “Conversations with My wedding at the Plaza Hotel on May 22, Father.” His first movies, “Life with Mikey” 2010, and have two children.

Krumholtz’s acting resume has grown and “Addams Family Values,” came in 1993, the year he also made his TV debut, tremendously, with numerous credits includon “Law & Order.” His roles on “Monty” ing the “Harold and Kumar” series, “Ray,” “Superbad,” the TV show “Numb3rs” and, and “The Santa Clause” followed in 1994.

Krumholtz married actress Vanessa Brit- perhaps most notably of late, “Oppenting, who stands 2 inches taller than him, heimer” in 2023 and “Supergirl” in 2026.

He and Britting decided to leave Hollyafter five years as her boyfriend and a twoQ year engagement. They enjoyed a stunning wood and live in Wyckoff, NJ, today.

SPORTS

BEAT

Polanco’s painful year

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Former Long Island Congressman Peter King is as passionate about the Mets as he is about politics, Last Friday, he posted on Facebook about the team’s failure to re-sign Pete Alonso.

King wrote about how Alonso has 29 home runs and rarely misses a game for the Baltimore Orioles, while his nominal replacement, Jorge Polanco, will miss the remainder of the season, after hitting two home runs and six RBIs. Two days earlier, interim Mets Manager Andy Green had announced that Polanco would miss the remainder of the season because of bursitis in his left ankle, and needs to undergo surgery.

Green stated he should be ready for baseball by the start of the 2027 season. That will be even more probable since it is likely the upcoming season will be delayed with the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement in December.

King’s frustrations reflect those of most Mets fans. It is incomprehensible why Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns never seemed enamored of Alonso, the team’s all-time career home run leader. Alonso played every day, was a fan favorite for his offense and was rarely injured.

Even more bizarre was Stearns’ decision to lavish a two-year, $40 million contract on free agent Polanco. Granted, Polanco was a solid-hitting infielder, but he had missed considerable

time the previous two seasons when he was a Seattle Mariner as he battled knee injuries. In addition, he had never played first base in the majors. That would contradict Stearns’ obsession with improving the Mets’ defense, which he would term “run prevention.”

Things began inauspiciously for Polanco as he endured injuries to both his Achilles tendon and to his wrist in April, causing him to miss the first half of the season. He was able to start playing after the All-Star Game, but it is not easy for a 33-year-old player to regain the offensive form Mets executives and fans were expecting because of both rust and pain.

Nevertheless, it would be a mistake to write off Polanco for 2027 if healthy. My guess is he will regain his batting stroke, and be more comfortable in his second year with the Mets. Whether he can play first base is another question.

Howie Rose will be honored with an on-field ceremony before his final Mets radio broadcast on Sunday, Sept. 20. It is fitting the Mets’ opponent that day will be the Philadelphia Phillies.

Howie has been calling Mets games on powerful 50,000-watt radio stations such as WFAN, WOR and WCBS (now WHSQ), which means Phillies fans have always been able to hear him.

There have been years when the Mets radio signal was stronger than that of the Phils’ outlet. Q See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

by Kristen Guglielmo editor

For more than 15 years, Paul Fabozzi has walked beneath the elevated train lines around Queensboro Plaza with a camera in hand, watching one of the fastest-changing corners of Queens rearrange itself.

Beginning Sept. 5, the paintings that have come out of those walks go on view in Bayside.

“LIC Morphology,” a solo exhibition of Fabozzi’s work, runs Sept. 5 through 27 at Garage Art Center, at 26-01 Corporal Kennedy St. in Bayside. An opening reception is set for Sept. 5, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Fabozzi is a professor of fine arts and chairman of the Department of Art and Design at St. John’s University, and creative director of Moves: Movimenti Creativi, an artist residency in Lucera, Italy.

The gallery is open by appointment during exhibitions; visits and event RSVPs can be scheduled online at garageartcenter.as.me.

More on the artist can be found

Artist Paul Fabozzi, above at his Long Island City studio in 2023, is bringing his solo exhibition, “LIC Morphology,” to Garage Art Center in Bayside in September.

At left, “LIC #1c,” is one of the works on display.

PHOTOS COURTESY GARAGE ART CENTER

online at paulfabozzi.com.

The show gathers a series of interrelated oil paintings that take Long Island City as a point of departure without ever settling into a picture of it.

“In ‘LIC Morphology,’ the city becomes both subject and metaphor, a living structure in constant motion,” the Garage Art Center said in a press release.

Rather than reproducing a specific view, Fabozzi draws on an accumulated archive of photographs and impressions of the neighborhood’s architec ture, infrastructure and movement.

Geometric passages suggest the elevated tracks, surrounding buildings and changing sightlines of today’s Long Island City while remaining open enough to oper-

ate as independent visual structures. Overlapping bands and angular fragments build a network of planes, as though several views of the same intersection had been layered onto a single image.

Color does the spatial work.

Saturated reds, greens, yellows and blues overlap and recede to produce depth without conven-

tional perspective.

The canvases on view are simply titled — such as “LIC #1a,” “LIC #1c” and “LIC #1d” — but powerfully show industrial history and architectural energy coexisting in the same pictorial field through oil on canvas.

“My approach to art making has made me feel more deeply the extent to which spatial experience is the basis of perception, and that creating images is a form of making meaning from experience,” Fabozzi said in a statement provided by Garage Art Center.

“My work stakes a claim for the role that image making plays in constructing our conscious relationship to our surroundings and explores our need to establish deep connections to the physical world.”

Garage Art Center also has scheduled an artist talk with Fabozzi, “In Dialogue with Place: On Process and Perception,” for Sept. 19, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. It is free and open to the public and recommended for those ages 12 Q and older.

Page 37 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

LIC’s elevated sightlines on canvas in Bayside

In Flushing Meadows, ride out the last of summer

Crossword Answers

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Historic landmarks on the tour include Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, and the USTA Tennis Center, where the US Open is now in town.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 38

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Legal Notices

Legal Notices Notice of Formation of ASCENSA TECHNOLOGIES LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/28/2026.

Office location: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: MARDIANTO HADIPUTRO, 111-20 76TH RD, APT 6F, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

105 CROSS RD LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/27/26. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design.

Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC 157-54 12th Rd Whitestone, NY 11357. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of ELEVATE HEALTH + WELLNESS, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/09/2026.

Office location: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: MALIA KRAHN, 3075 38TH ST, APT 3, ASTORIA, NY 11103.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of AG BUILDING GROUP LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/09/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ARNAV GHOSH, 9015 138TH PL, C14, JAMAICA, NY 11435. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

MILE HIGH THE EXPERIENCE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/03/26. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 89-08 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of BLINN WV LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/08/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: PHILIP LEE, 28-07 JACKSON AVE, FL 5, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of DIRECTIONNY, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/24/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ERNEST GASPARYAN, 35-35 75TH STREET, APT. 308, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Hill Court LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 08/25/26.

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, 146 Stewart Ave. Brooklyn NY 11237. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

COUNTY NEWREZ LLC D/B/A SHELLPOINT

Real Estate

MORTGAGE

Apts. For Rent

SERVICING, Plaintiff against SANDRA LORE A/K/A SANDRA M. LORE, et al Defendant(s) Attorney

for

Plaintiff(s)

Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110,

Armonk,

NY

10504.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered February 3, 2026, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard,

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

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

Jamaica, NY 11435 on September 18, 2026 at 10:00AM.

Apts. For Rent

Premises known as 10-43 College Point, 11-15 130th St, #2.

116th Street, College Point, 3 BR, 1.5 bath, $2,800/mo. Huge apt, separate entrance, HWF

NY 11356. Block 4023 Lot 53. throughout, master BR has 1/2 All that certain plot, piece or bath. Available NOW. Call Jessie

Lookfong, 631-408-8918, Capri

parcel of land, situate, lying Jet Realty and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and

Legal Notices

State of New York. Approxi-

NY Tour Planner LLC filed

mate Amount of Judgment is $581,747.29 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions

7/13/26. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail to: 2341 204th St.,

of filed Judgment Index No

Bayside, NY 11360. Reg

719102/2022. The foreclo-

Agent

of

LLC:

Yonsei

sure sale will be conducted in

Accounting,

Inc.,

213-33

accordance with 11th Judicial

39th Ave., #320, Bayside,

District’s Covid-19 Policies

NY 11361. Purp: any lawful.

and foreclosure auction rules.

The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee.

Guy R. Vitacco Jr., Esq., Referee File # 2005188536 Notice of Formation of NUEVA FOUNDATION LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/19/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: JUAN NUEVA, 106-07 NORTHERN BOULEVARD, 3B, CORONA, NY 11368. Purpose: For any lawful purpose

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Legal Notices Notice of Formation of RESTORATION HANDYMASTERS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/21/2022.

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 LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 8602 PARK LN S, 6A1, WOODHAVEN, NY 11421. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of PEAKLINE ADVISORY LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/30/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RUNU UKWADE, 44-41 PURVES ST., 2206, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of SULFUROUS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/20/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: JONATHAN WRIGHT, 139 GUERNSEY ST, APT 4R, BROOKLYN, NY 11222.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of TOP 8 RESERVE LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/30/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RICHARD SIU, 37-12 PRINCE STREET, PH2A, FLUSHING, NY 11355. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS F L U S H I N G B A N K , Plaintif f AG A INST PA R A MJIT K AUR, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of F oreclosure and S ale duly en t er e d J ul y 2 0, 2 0 2 6 , I , the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme C o u r t , 8 8 -11 S u t p h i n B o ulev a r d , J a ma i c a , N ew York 11435, Cour troom 25, on S eptember 4, 2 0 2 6, at 10am, premises k nown as 110 -41 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York 11435.

A ll that cer t ain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Queens, Cit y and S t ate of New York, Block: 12154 Lot: 6. A pproximate amount of judgment $ 527,961.84 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No. 705770 / 2025 a n d Te r m s o f S a l e . S c o t t H. Siller, Esq., Referee The Camporeale Law Group PLLC 585 Stewar t Avenue, Suite 301, Garden City, New York 11530

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS

Page 39 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

NOTICE OF SALE Supreme Court County of Queens Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST Drupatee Rampersad, Rick Rampersad, et al, Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 17, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Queens County Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Second Floor Courtroom 25, Jamaica, NY 11435 on September 25, 2026 at 10:00 AM premises known as 104-12 121st Street, South Richmond Hill a/k/a Richmond Hill, NY 11419. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the County of Queens, City and State of New York, BLOCK: 9574, LOT: 11. Approximate amount of judgment is $663,104.65 plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 720229/2024. This sale may be subject to the US Dept of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network Real Estate Reporting Rule.

In such event, all purchasers are required to provide the information needed for proper reporting in accordance with the terms of sale. For sale information, please visit Auc tion.com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832.

Richard Gutierrez, Referee FRENKEL LAMBERT WEISMAN & GORDON LLP 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, NY 11706 01-100156-F00 91151

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, August 27, 2026 Page 40 For the latest news visit qchron.com

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