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Two sentenced in car insurance fraud scheme PAGE 4 Dash cam footage of a silver Honda purposely backing into a woman’s vehicle on the Belt Parkway, above, went viral online in 2024. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz and Gov. Hochul on Aug. 27 announced prison sentences for the organizer of an insurance fraud scheme and the driver who cut off vehicles to cause rear-end collisions, including the viral 2024 incident.

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Mail-in ballot rules still being litigated As enforcement is halted, anonymous whistleblower alleges violations, flaws by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

ust after the path was cleared for new restrictions on mail-in voting, a judge blocked them, and the Trump administration appealed. Then a whistleblower alleged that the Postal Service continued to work on them against court orders, which the agency denies. Massachusetts U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani in an Aug. 27 order blocked the rules from taking effect for at least 14 days, writing that while Congress may preempt the states’ election decisions, the court is “unaware” of any congressional action that would let the United States Postal Service regulate election mail. It says also that the states suing the USPS face irreparable harm when they must comply with “a likely unconstitutional regulation for which compliance is practically impossible” before the November midterms. “If Plaintiff States are unable to comply with the Final Rule, an outcome that seems unavoidable given the timeframe, they will violate their obligations under the Constitution and State laws to administer elections,” Talwani wrote. Organizations that sued, including the League of Women Voters of Massachusetts, also would be at risk of disenfranchsement, the judge said. The rule, which was pursuant to a March 31 executive order from President Trump, requires ballots to be mailed in specific, Postal Service-

approved envelopes with unique barcodes. States also must submit mail voters’ information to the USPS via an online portal. The rule says that while eligibility for mailin ballots is determined by state law, the USPS will “generally not accept” outbound federal ballot mailings that do not comply. Seven percent of the city’s voters in last year’s primary election — more than 77,000 voters — cast ballots by mail, and 7.1 percent — more than 157,000 people — did so in the general. The lower court on Aug. 11 halted the new regulations’ implementation. But the Supreme Court on Aug. 24 ruled that the USPS had been directed to start proposing a rule that might bind the states in the future — as the rule was neither proposed nor final, it imposed “no legal requirements on the states.” The final rule was published in the Federal Register Aug. 26. Attorneys general from roughly two dozen states, including Letitia James of New York, sued the USPS that same day. Talwani blocked the rule’s enforcement Aug. 27, and the Trump administration appealed. The administration generally claims it is trying to ensure only eligible voters receive ballots, while critics say the president is trying to suppress the vote to benefit his party. Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Monday wrote a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner, informing him of a disclosure

Legal battles over the Trump administration’s new mail-in voting restric tions remain ongoing. that his office received through nonprofit organization Whistleblower Aid the day prior. Referred to as an anonymous federal official, the whistleblower flagged the USPS’s “secretive, rushed, chaotic, and fundamentally flawed” process for creating the online portal. The whistleblower also alleged that the administration has hidden the “high likelihood” of “major disruptions” to mail ballots’ delivery

to voters under the new verification processes. “As presently designed, if even one bar code on one single ballot in a bulk-mailing of 10,000 ballots fails to properly scan during the verification process, the entire batch is rejected and sent back to the state — effectively stopping the ballots from being mailed to voters,” the disclosure reads. The whistleblower also alleged that the agency violated a court order that halted the project in June by continuing to work on it weeks later. Work went on even after the Aug. 27 order, according to the whistleblower. A USPS spokesperson said in a statement Tuesday that its work to develop the portal has been consistent with court orders at all times. The court this past week explicitly confirmed that the USPS may continue that work and communicate with states about design standards “on a voluntary basis,” the statement continues, but verification procedures prior to acceptance are not being performed. The USPS is finalizing the portal and will soon make it available to election officials who wish to review it, the spokesperson said. “Postal employees take great pride in their responsibility to support the democratic process,” the statement reads. “We will continue to approach that responsibility with the care, professionalism, and dedication that voters and election officials expect from the United States continued on page 24

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Katz: Staged crash law getting results Guilty pleas, prison time for ring in faked Queens crashes from 2024 by Michael Gannon

Aug. 24 to one to three years in prison on the first charge and one yea r on t he second , t o r u n Let’s go to the videotape. Queens District Attorney Melin- concurrently. Murillo, 34, also of Brooklyn, da Katz on Thursday showed dashboard camera footage from three pleaded guilty on June 4 to secondstaged crashes in 2024 in announc- degree staging a motor vehicle ing prison sentences for the orga- accident in the second degree, nizer of an insurance fraud scheme fourth-degree insurance fraud and and the driver who cut off vehicles fifth-degree conspiracy. He was sentenced on Aug. 3 to two years in to cause rear-end collisions. In each one, driver Victor Muril- prison on the first two charges and lo, 34, of Brooklyn, cut off vehicles one year on the third to be served and applied his brakes to cause concurrently.. Katz said Huiracocha would rear-end collisions. In one instance when the intended victim was able recruit drivers who owned cars and to stop in time, the video shows people to pose as passengers with Murillo putting his vehicle into promises of cash payouts. In the three cases at hand, Murillo would reverse and smashing into her. Gov. Hochul, who signed a bill drive while in contact with Huirathat this year expanded prosecu- cocha, who was shadowing them in tors’ authority to go after organiz- a red Kia, via cellphone. Huiracocha would select the vicers of such rings as well as doctors, lawyers and others involved in the tim. After the crash Murillo would switch places background, with the pasalso was pressenger in the ent, as was ut there is right front set. Assemblyman The new “drivDavid Weprin nothing accidental er” and passen(D-Fresh about this scheme.” gers would exit Meadows), the veh icle who sponsored — Queens District Attorney complaining of the legislation. Melinda Katz back or neck “We somepain — “With times refer to these incidents as staged acci- very exaggerated motions,” Katz dents,” Katz said at a press confer- said — while Huiracocha pulled up ence at her Kew Gardens office. in the Kia and spirited Murillo “But there is nothing accidental away. The DA said passengers, who about this scheme.” Katz said Jamie Huiracocha, 53, were then encouraged to file fake Brooklyn resident who was the insurance claims ,were different organizer of the ring, pleaded each time. “The common factors were guilty on May 27 to third-degree insurance fraud and fifth-degree Huiracocha and Murillo,” she said. Two others involved in the conspiracy. He was sentenced on Senior News Editor

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“B

District Attorney Melinda Katz, left, and Gov. Hochul discuss results from new laws cracking down on staged automobile crashes. PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON scheme, Maikel Martinez and Ivon Matus-Martinez, have pleaded guilty and will be sentenced in September. Katz showed dash cam footage of a crash Aug. 24, 2024, on the Belt Parkway near the Erskine Street exit. A silver Honda Civic driven by Murillo merged into the lane directly in front of a woman driver and stopped, forcing her to collide with the car. Footage from the victim’s car captured Murillo exiting the Honda and entering a red Kia that had stopped directly in front of it after the crash. On Oct. 3 of that year a tractortrailer was cut off in the middle lane of the Nassau Expressway near Cross Bay Boulevard in Lindenwood. A Nissan Xterra, driven by Murillo, suddenly cut into the mid-

dle lane directly in front of the truck. The truck driver was unable to avoid hitting the Nissan. Murillo got out of the Nissan, entered a nother veh icle that stopped in front of him and quickly left the scene. At the same time, a female claimed to the truck driver that she had been the one driving the Nissan during the collision. The video that went viral — Katz said she reached out to other agencies after seeing it online — was from Oct. 16, 2024, when a Queens woman was driving north in the left lane of the Belt Parkway in Rosedale near the Nassau County border. A Honda Civic driven by Murillo cut in front of her and abruptly came to a stop. The victim was forced to step on her brakes to avoid a collision. Murillo then

quickly reversed the Honda and backed into the victim’s vehicle, damaging both her car and the Honda. Dashcam footage showed not only the collision, but also a red Kia Sportage following the woman’s car. After the crash, the Kia stopped in front of the Honda. Murillo, who climbed to the front passenger seat, exited the Honda from that side. He then entered the Kia and was driven away from the scene. Katz and Hochul said Weprin’s bill expanded the definition of who could be prosecuted for organizing, par ticipating in or other wise enabling staged crashes, and made it easier to do so. “There’s an entire ecosystem of people who profit from these staged accidents,” Katz said, adding that the new law not only allows the law to go after organizers who were not even present at the scene of the crime, but attorneys, doctors, insurance personnel and others who might be participating. Weprin acknowledged that some special interests were opposed to his bill as written. “We had to fight ’em,” Weprin told the Chronicle. Hochul, dropping by on her birthday, said the law will improve public safety and help drive down the some of the highest insurance rates in the country. “We’re sending a strong message,” Hochul said. “If you stage crashes, if you defraud New Yorkers, if you endanger lives, we will find you. We will we will prosecute you and make you pay the Q price.”

S. Ozone fire injures three, displaces six by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Three people, including two firefighters, were injured in a two-alarm residential fire in South Ozone Park last week, according to the FDNY. Firefighters received a call at 4:38 a.m. on Aug. 27 reporting a blaze in the basement of a two-and-a-half story private dwelling at 109-35 110 St., between 109th and 111th avenues. Officials said the fire extended to adjoining homes. A second alarm was called at 4:43, the

FDNY said, and Con Edison was notified about primary wires on the ground behind the building. A total of 46 units, consisting of 141 fire and EMS personnel, responded to the scene. The fire was under control by 6:17 a.m., officials said. Its cause is under investigation. A civilian was treated by EMS on the scene but refused medical transport, according to the FDNY. One firefighter sustained minor injuries and refused medical transport, while another firefighter was seriously hurt and taken to an area hospital. The department did not provide an update

on the firefighter’s condition. The city Department of Buildings issued a full vacate order for the home after the FDNY requested a structural stability inspection, according to online records. The American Red Cross told the Chronicle it registered six adults from two households for emergency assistance, including Q temporary lodging.

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City, state team on green flood control Native greenery replacing concrete to catch stormwater at three sites by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Three flood-prone neighborhoods in Queens are in for some relief as the city and state are teaming up on a prevention project that will convert concrete road medians in Forest Hills, Queens Village and Whitestone with plants and green infrastructure. In an Aug. 27 statement from Mayor Mandani’s office, he and Gov. Hochul said the plan is to have the sites act as natural sponges to soak up rain and prevent extreme flooding with native shrubs, grasses and wildflowers. The aims include cooling and beautifying the streetscape while providing stronger flood protection for surrounding neighborhoods. Mandani thanked Hochul for dedicating millions in funding. “Climate change is bringing more intense and unpredictable bursts of rain, and without action, those storms will continue to overwhelm New York City’s sewer system,” Mamdani said. “This $8.4 million green median project meets that challenge with infrastructure that works for our environment and our neighborhoods. “By planting native species and wildflowers above an underground stormwater storage network, we will capture five million gallons of stormwater each year, easing pressure on our sewer system and keeping New Yorkers safe.” Hochul said the work is vital with flash

A green median project on Francis Lewis Boulevard in Whitestone is nearing completion, with work in Forest Hills and Queens Village to begin before year’s end. PHOTO COURTESY NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE floods becoming more frequent due to climate change. “Here in New York, we are implementing innovative solutions to strengthen our infrastructure and better protect our communities,” the governor said. “Working with Mayor Mamdani and the City of New York, these critical green infrastructure projects will help make Whitestone, Forest Hills and Queens Village more resilient and safe.” The Mayor’s Office said the Whitestone project is nearing completion on medians along

Francis Lewis Boulevard between 20th Avenue and 21st Road. It stretches 1,105 feet and is designed to capture runoff from a 1.17-acre drainage area. It is expected to absorb 1.11 million gallons of stormwater each year, reducing combined sewer overflows into the East River. The Forest Hills project is slated to begin this fall on Union Turnpike between Metropolitan Avenue and 71st Road. The Union Turnpike medians extend 3,245 feet and draw from a 2.56-acre drainage area. They are designed to

handle 2.43 million gallons of stormwater annually, easing pressure on the system and preventing CSO into Flushing Bay. The Queens Village project, on Springfield Boulevard between Lucas Street and Merrick Boulevard, is expected to begin later this year and will add 1,182 feet of green infrastructure tied to a 1.51-acre drainage area. The improvements will manage 1.44 million gallons of stormwater each year and help limit CSOs into Jamaica Bay. In total, the newly engineered spaces in Queens are expected to capture an estimated five million gallons of stormwater each year. To ensure water flows into the medians, new inlet openings will be built to divert water off the streets and directly onto the planted areas. Construction includes installing specially engineered soils and underground storage systems designed to absorb stormwater. The projects also will improve pedestrian safety with ADA-compliant ramps and detectable warning surfaces. The work is being partially funded with New York State grants totaling $5 million from the Green Innovation Grant Program administered by the Environmental Facilities Corp. and the Water Quality Improvement Project overseen by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. continued on page 24

It’s gonna be a wet, hot American winter Mixed feelings coming out of Queens on this season’s coming El Niño by Andrew Karpan

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Associate Editor

Meteorologists are expecting a hotter and wetter winter in the Northeast and elsewhere, with forecasts projecting one of the strongest El Niño weather events in decades. “It is going to be wet and warmer for our area,” Jim Connolly of the U.S. Weather Service in Upton, LI, told the Chronicle. “If we’re looking at December, January, February, we’re seeing above normal temperatures,” he said. “And that’s all basically tied to El Niño.” El Niño is a climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean that can cause shifts in the weather, such as heavy rain and more heat. Per the official NWS prediction, there’s now a greater than 90 percent chance of “a very strong event” in the Northern Hemisphere for the upcoming winter season. There’s also a 69 percent chance of “a historic event” that would exceed any previous ones, dating back to 1950. For those who have been watching the weather around Queens for a while, the news might not be surprising. It’s been raining for a while. The last month has been the rainiest in the city for the past five years. “Obviously from a personal point of view, we’re disappointed that it’s been raining so much in August,” said lifelong Broad Channel resident Dan Mundy Jr., who runs the Jamaica

Bay Ecowatchers. Mundy is worried about what the rain will mean for the maintenance of the bay itself, a complex and vulnerable ecosystem, perpetually close to the city’s waste. “The single thing that I could think of where heavy rain events play a negative role in Jamaica Bay would be the combined sewer overflows,” said Mundy. He worries extended rainfall will increase pressure on the area’s water treatment plants. “And then those plants, instead of being able to handle the waste in a treatable way, going through the many steps of the process so that could be released clean, they get washed out,” warns Mundy. Others watching the weather in Queens have their own biases. “It couldn’t be better,” said Steve Brill, nicknamed “Wildman,” who has led tours through Forest Park since 1982, teaching people to identify edible native plants. “The more rain, the more mushrooms,” Brill told the Chronicle. The warmer, wetter climate largely makes the area both more abundant and edible. “When I first started leading my tours, the common spice bush berries didn’t ripen until October and now they’re ripening in December,” said Brill. Even the flowers were sticking around longer.

Predictions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration show a 40 to 50 percent chance the Northeast receives more precipitation in the winter months to come. NOAA MAP “The dandelions, nowadays, are still good up to the start of December, right when my tours end,” he said. “Climate change is, of course, scary. But for foraging, it certainly has its advantages.” A warm winter would be a good thing for bugs too, says Walter Mugdan, who runs the Udalls Cove Preservation Committee.

“The warmer a winter is, the more insects survive into the coming spring,” he told the Chronicle. It’ll be good for the spotted lanternflies. And the ticks too, he says, which used to not be able to survive winters in New York. “So, for some wildlife, it’s going to be good. But for some people who are concerned about the wildlife, it’s not going to be a good thing.” Q

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Generative AI banned for younger students City officials unveil new technology guidance by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

City officials on Wednesday announced a moratorium on the use of generative artificial intelligence in schools for younger children, a decision that will impact nearly 600,000 public school students. The new policy bans the use of student-facing generative AI — in which models such as ChatGPT or Claude generate images, text, video and code — for one year for children in 2-K through eighth grade, effective for the 2026-27 school year. It also introduces twice-yearly AI critical thinking modules for high school students, limited AI pilot programs for a “small number of high school classrooms” and age-appropriate screen time restrictions, according to a press release from City Hall. Companion chatbots will be prohibited across all grades. Throughout the 2026-27 school year, a Technology in Schools Coalition, made up of students, educators, parent leaders, elected officials, advocates, union partners and experts in the field, will convene to assess the impact of the moratorium and limited

pilots, the city said. The coalition will publish a report with recommendations for future school years. Five AI pilot programs will be introduced to a maximum of 50,000 high school students, or about 5 percent of the public school student body, in general education classes. Additionally, all high school students will have access to AI literacy classes twice a year, the city said, designed to help them think critically about AI before they begin to rely on it. The two 45-minute modules will introduce students to what AI is and is not, as well as AI-related bias, risks, ethical considerations and impacts on careers and future skills. The limited pilots will be offered in a maximum of five classes per high school. The pilot programs include Quill, accessed by English language arts classrooms and designed to support close reading, text analysis and the use of evidence to support claims; Edia, designed to provide step-bystep coaching and prompt students to explain their reasoning in math classrooms; Brisk Teaching, designed to provide guided practice using teacher-selected texts or videos; Playlab,

designed to help students engage with assignment-specific applications and examine AI outputs for bias and reasoning; and Intel AI-Ready Schools, to be used across multiple subjects to help students identify community problems and develop AI solutions. Teachers are still permitted to use AI for instructional planning and operational tasks, provided all tools comply with city Department of Education safety standards. Students in second grade and below will see restricted 1:1 screen time, the city said, with recommended caps of 30 minutes a day for students in grades 3 through 5, and 45 minutes for students in grades 6 through 8. “Children need teachers and human connection in order to learn and grow,” Mayor Mamdani said in a statement. “They need to develop skills alongside their peers, build relationships with educators and wrestle with tough problems on their own. The tech industry wants us to believe that A.I.-powered early education is not only inevitable, but necessary. We do not see it that way.” Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels said, “We’re standing firmly in

Mayor Mamdani and Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels, left, on Sept. 2 unveiled guidance on the use of generative artificial intelligence in schools. SCREENSHOT VIA NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE VIDEO / YOUTUBE

our belief that innovation does not mean more technology, and over the next year, we will lead with evidence to make sure technology serves learning — not the other way around.” However, not all were on board with the city’s new AI guidance in schools. State Sen. Kristen Gonzalez (D-Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan), chair of the Internet and Technology Committee, and Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa (D-Manhattan), chair of the Committee on Technology, released a joint statement. The two tech chairs said that

while the guide is a step forward, it “falls short of what is needed to meet this moment.” The lawmakers said they are pleased that AI is banned for younger students while educational efficacy is determined, but are wary of the pilot programs. “Introducing a technology without clear criteria for safety, bias, and outcomes is bad policy that could harm cognitive and social development,” they said. “Chancellor Samuels should postpone these pilots until the Q tools can be properly assessed.”

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P AI in city schools: first contact

EDITORIAL

AGE

iven the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and its rapid spread into so many corners of our lives, the city school system faces an unprecedented and seemingly overwhelming task in addressing and accommodating it. How does one ensure that students are learning at the same time as getting them prepared for a future in which AI plays a role in nearly everything, from asking how to construct something that comes in kit form to medical diagnoses? It’s not an easy question, and it’s not the only one AI raises. So it looks like the Mayor’s Office and Department of Education have struck the right balance in their initial approach to AI in schools. And we’ll see how their pilot programs play out and what adjustments need to be made as time goes on. The key thing is exactly what our headline says in this week’s story about the issue: “Generative AI banned for younger students.” For those who don’t know, generative AI is that which creates something “new.” It’s not the algorithm that recommends your next video on YouTube, it’s the system you might use to create videos or, really, prompt their creation. And it’s not something we want kindergarteners and elementary school students using. So the city is banning it for one year

for children in preschool through eighth grade. That will help, to the degree it can be done, to encourage children to use their own brains instead of the pseudobrains of something programmed to think for them. Going hand in hand with the moratorium on generative AI for younger kids are limits on individual screen time, with recommended caps of 30 minutes a day for those in third through fifth grade and 45 minutes for those in sixth through eighth. The recommendation for those in second grade and below is no individual screen time at all. As Mayor Mamdani said, “Children need teachers and human connection in order to learn and grow.” He added that while the tech industry thinks AI-driven early education is both inevitable and needed, “We do not see it that way.” Meanwhile, tens of thousands of high school students will be exposed to some kind of AI pilot program, and all of them will get at least some introduction to it. Not everyone will be thrilled, but we understand officials are making it up as they go. They really have no choice, as the tech industry is doing the same thing. The balance between traditional teaching and keeping up with the technology used in the world outside school is going to be a challenge for the foreseeable future.

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Dear Editor: New data centers and lithium-ion battery energy storage systems should be built where there are already facilities in place. Buffalo, Syracuse, Rochester and Binghamton all have the infrastructure already built, and the companies can also do partial Superfund cleanup there. Workers will come to the area for jobs, better parking and cheaper housing. The facilities also will have the room they want to expand, without being next to area that will endanger others. Alexander Glatt Woodhaven

The mayor visits Glendale Dear Editor: Talk about burying the lede. The Chronicle headline reads, “Team tasked with playground repairs” (Aug. 27, multiple editions), but the big story is the mayor came to Glendale. The last time may have been when Bob Holden brought Eric Adams to Zum Stammtisch. Not only that, Glendale’s Dry Harbor Playground gets the playground repairs first. No getting in line behind the usual priorities. A nice gesture, for a change. Plus, Mayor Mamdani gave a nice speech. Google it. Unsurprisingly, no local elected pols were on hand, just some community board member. © Copyright 2026 by MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. All rights reserved. Neither this newspaper nor any part thereof may be reproduced, copied, or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, microfilming, recording or by any information retrieval system without the express written permission of the publishers. This copyright is extended to the design and text created for advertisements. Reproduction of said advertisement or any part thereof without the express written permission of MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. is strictly prohibited. This publication will not be responsiblefor errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Bylined articles represent the sole opinion of the writer and are not necessarily in accordance with the views of the QUEENS CHRONICLE. This Publication reserves the right to limit or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. The Queens Chronicle is published weekly by Mark I Publications, Inc. at a subscription rate of $25 per year and out of state, $25 per year. Periodicals Postage Paid (USPS0013-572) at Flushing, N.Y. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mark I Publications, Inc., 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-201, Glendale, NY 11385.

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Take no offense, Mr. Mayor. We’re used to that sort of representation. But thank you, and come back soon! Edwin Eppich Glendale

Katz must answer House Dear Editor: Re your Aug. 27 report “Sanctuary standoff for Katz, Congress”: Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, who often makes news for her criminal prosecutions, now faces allegations that her office gives preferential treatment to immigrants by failing to prosecute or underprosecuting them, to avoid immigration consequences for their crimes. Katz refused media requests to comment on these charges, made by the U.S. House Judiciary Committee. She also refused to give the committee information it requested pertaining to these allegations. Her silence on this issue, and refusal to cooperate with the House Judiciary Committee, raises serious questions about her conduct as

Two shootings

t’s tempting to think police did not need to shoot Times Square killer Pamela Cisneros of Woodside. And it’s easy for Queens people to liken her case to that of Win Rozario, the Ozone Park man officers shot dead in 2024. Both had deadly weapons in hand and were advancing on officers. Both resisted Tasers. Both were disturbed people. But otherwise their cases are different. Rozario was struggling with family trying to save him. He had not hurt anyone, at least not yet. We wish he just could have been subdued with batons. Cisneros had just stabbed two people, killing one: a happy, successful young wife and mother. She said the cops were next and ran at them. They had no choice (cops are not trained to shoot people in the leg; that’s the movies), and we’re confident all investigations will reflect that.

Queens DA, an office she has held for the past six years. Katz must comply with New York State and City sanctuary laws. But those laws do not mean immigrants are let off the hook for crimes they commit, in order to protect them from actions by immigration agencies. As Queens DA, Katz has compiled an impressive record of convictions for drug and gun dealers, perpetrators of violent crimes, vicious domestic abuse and fraud. But her silence on congressional allegations casts a dark shadow. She must speak up now. DA does not stand for Don’t Answer. Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

‘Republican’ is verboten Dear Editor: Recently on TV, there have been polished and persuasive campaign ads featuring Reps. Mike Lawler and Tom Kean Jr. and Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Yet, none of the ads mention their party affiliation. Is this omission deliberate? Does the Republican Party

Six months of bad war

I fear World War III Dear Editor: Never in my life have I written anything that I hoped would be untrue, until now. In the mid- to late 1930s the Spanish Civil War raged. On Franco’s side were Germany and Italy. On the Republican side was the Soviet Union and, unofficially, several European countries. This war served as a prelude to World War II. It enabled Germany and the Soviet Union to audition their latest military weapons and tactics. Meanwhile, in Asia, Japan was running roughshod over Korea and China. Shortly after

The U.S., diminished Dear Editor: Remember the proverb warning, “If you give someone an inch, he’ll take a mile”? Or the fable featuring the camel begging, on a cold winter night, to warm his nose inside a tent, and returning the next night to intrude his head and neck, following on a third night by staking claim to enough space for his whole humpy, furry body, crowding out the family sleeping there? Important assets, important values, important rights can lose their standing by tiny incursions that seem almost inconsequential. It’s death by a thousand cuts. News accounts document the constant diminutions of the grand idea of the United States. We are welcoming the finance minister of Russia to the G20 event in North Carolina though Russia supports Iran with munitions that are attacking our military assets and personnel. In another setting, Putin is literally embracing the leader of Iran. There is the recurrent threat to remove the states’ right to monitor elections by interrupting mail service; check Article I, Section 4 and Amendment X of the Constitution on that. Even the Republican governor of Wyoming protested the surprise visits by federal election observers while polling places are being closed. We’ve seen the deportation of an immigrant related to Afghan assets of the U.S. military presence in Afghanistan, breaking a promise that American military personnel made. We are building a prison camp for immigrant children and families. Research and monitoring of food borne diseases continues to be curtailed and cut, including cyclosporiasis, which caused the recent cases of explosive diarrhea. Senior military officials have been dismissed or pushed out even though we’re at war, leaving a vacuum of expertise at the top. There’s trouble in little “River City.” The enormous mountain that is the United States is being chipped away by an army of tiny stonecutters. Debra Michlewitz Bayside

Unauthorized riders Dear Editor: The obvious explosion of e-bikes and illegal immigrants in this county are tied together like shoes and laces. We don’t raise our children to deliver meals and packages. We need immigrants legal or not to do this function. Delivery companies have recruited these workers to come here and work through the loops. Ray Hackinson Ozone Park

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Dear Editor: (An open statement to the public) Last Friday, Aug. 28, marked six months since President Trump launched his disastrous war with Iran that congressional Republicans have fully supported. We were told this president and Republicans would bring peace and lower prices. Instead, they’ve wasted billions on war while leaving working families behind. This war was launched without a clear plan, executed without a coherent strategy, and has become a costly, self-inflicted disaster. Every justification we were given for this conflict has proven hollow. Our servicemembers did not volunteer to be pawns in a chaotic, unauthorized war with no plan and no end in sight. Tragically, many have been wounded or lost their lives in this needless war. And here at home, New Yorkers have paid the price for this war as well — at the grocery store and the gas pump. This administration has unlimited money for bombs, ballrooms, and billionaires — but nothing for the American people: for their healthcare, their food, their housing and for their lives. New Yorkers — and all Americans — deserve better. I pray for our troops and for the end to this war. Kirsten Gillibrand U.S. Senator from New York Manhattan

the Spanish Civil War, World War II broke out. As I look at the world today, I see Russia and the NATO nations testing their weaponry in Ukraine and the United States testing its in the Middle East. I see China threatening to take over Taiwan by force. I see antisemitism growing in the United States and in Europe. It all seems frighteningly similar to the world in 1939. I can only hope and pray that we do not get the same result. Michael Gallagher Forest Hills

feel its brand is so toxic in New York and New Jersey that the producers of these ads thought it best not to mention the word Republican? A more truthful alternative would have been: Republican Congressmen Lawler and Kean both voted in support of the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, which gave hefty tax breaks to the wealthiest in the nation, while delivering massive cuts in jobs, benefits and services on which working families have relied. Also, President Trump made a trip to Nassau County to endorse and support another cohort of his, Blakeman. The president has made innumerable comments denigrating New York State and New Yorkers. While this president occupies the White House, it is not a good time to install one of his allies to be governor of our state. That unfortunate mistake would give the president a willing accomplice to wreak havoc on our state and would facilitate his vindictive retribution to his political enemies based here. Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens

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Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

LETTERS TO THE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026 Page 12

Mayor releases final racial equity plan Following public feedback, blueprint sets eight goals to be met by 2034 by Kristen Guglielmo

the majority of whom are women of color; • increase the number of integrated New Mayor Mamdani and the Mayor’s Office York City public schools with stable enrollof Equity and Racial Justice on Tuesday ment, equitable access to academic proreleased the long-awaited finalized version grams and services and culturally responof the Citywide Racial Equity Plan, the sive leadership that improves belonging, city’s first government-wide framework for engagement and academic outcomes for Black and Latino stuadvancing racial equity. dents, multiling ual The plan follows a learners, students with 30-day public comment his is what it looks disabilities and other period after the prelimihistorically underserved nary plan was released like to govern with communities; in April. During that • reduce unemploytime, the MOERJ gathequity in mind.” ment rates among Black, ered feedback from New — Mayor Mamdani Latino and Asian AmerYorkers across the borican New Yorkers relaoughs and worked with 45 city agencies to strengthen the plan’s tive to 2026 rates, including by improving goals, strategies and indicators, according to workforce development outcomes; • reduce the jail population, which the a press release from City Hall. The plan sets eight citywide goals that city says is disproportionately made up of New Yorkers can use to track the city’s people of color, while operationalizing smaller borough-based jail facilities; progress, with deadlines in 2034: • improve pregnancy-related health out• Address racial disparities in rent burden and homelessness by dramatically increas- comes for Black New Yorkers, including by reducing Black maternal mortality, with ing the production of affordable housing; • reduce achievement gaps an racial dis- progress tracked by race and ethnicity; • reduce racial disparities in transportaparities in literacy, numeracy and socialemotional development by expanding and tion access by prioritizing faster, more reliimproving early childhood education while able and accessible bus service in Task advancing job quality for childcare workers, Force on Racial Inclusion and Equity neighEditor

“T

borhoods and communities experiencing the greatest transportation burdens; and • increase home broadband adoption in the city’s most under-connected neighborho o d s , w it h d at a d is a g g r eg at e d by neighborhood. The full plan can be viewed online at tinyurl.com/ycxptrfs. “New Yorkers told us what mattered to them, and this plan is built around those demands,” Mamdani said in a prepared statement. “For too long, government has been willing to acknowledge inequality without setting goals for ending it. This plan changes that. These commitments are specific, measurable and public, and New Yorkers should hold us accountable for delivering on them.” He added, “Whether it means narrowing disparities in unemployment, reducing Black maternal mortality or making sure every child has access to a great public education, this is what it looks like to govern with equity in mind.” “The public feedback sessions gave New Yorkers the opportunity to make this plan stronger and more intentional,” said the city’s chief equity officer and MOERJ Commissioner Afua Atta-Mensah. “We heard a clear demand for baselines, accountability and structural change. Training sessions and

Following a 30-day public comment period, Mayor Mamdani on Sept. 1 released the finalized Citywide Racial Equity Plan. PHOTO BY ED REED / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE / FILE

outreach alone are not enough to change people’s lives. “The final Racial Equity Plan reflects the input from New Yorkers of all backgrounds. New Yorkers should be able to see and feel the impact of this work, and government must be accountable for closing these Q disparities.”

City addresses delays Hizzoner: yearlong in childcare payments NYC outdoor dining Mamdani pledges $43M investment by Kristen Guglielmo

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Editor

Mayor Mamdani and Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels on Monday unveiled an overhaul of the city’s childcare procurement process and the Department of Education’s Division of Early Childhood Education, pledging emergency measures to address payment delays that, according to multiple reports, threatened the initial rollout of the city’s free daycare program for 2-year-olds. The plan includes a $43 million investment to rebuild the Division of Early Childhood Education, which officials said lost staffing capacity and left providers wait i ng months for cont racts a nd payments. The allocation will fund the hiring of more than 200 new employees in the division, along with procurement reforms meant to set clear timelines for contracting and eliminate bottlenecks. “We are bringing every resource to bear to get providers paid, get classrooms open and make sure families have the care they

were promised,” Mamdani said in a statement. “And we are changing this system so that providers are never again asked to carry the cost of the City’s bureaucracy.” The administration said it has tripled staffing dedicated to reviewing early childhood contracts and will process interest-free bridge loans within five business days once providers submit complete paperwork. The city said providers will not need to repay those loans directly; they will instead be reconciled through providers’ DOE budget allotments. City Hall also said every affected childcare provider will be contacted directly to ensure they have support needed to open on the first day of school. The administration also plans to deliver supplies — including diapers, toys and educational materials — directly to providers who need it at no cost. A new deputy chancellor for early childhood education will oversee the changes, the city said, though it had not been announced who will fill that post as Q of press time Wednesday.

by Kristina Raevsky Chronicle Contributor

Outdoor roadway dining is here to stay, per Mayor Mamdani. Mamdani signed Intro. 655, sponsored by City Councilmember Lincoln Restler (D-Brooklyn), into law on Monday, ending the requirement that restaurants annually dismantle and rebuild their roadway dining setups to provide reduced costs for restaurant owners, a move that is predicted to boost the number of eateries participating in the program. Whereas restaurants participating in Dining Out NYC were previously required to remove roadway dining setups from Nov. 30 through March 31, the structures can now remain year-round, with the city Department of Transportation set to issue rules in the coming months for temporarily winterizing them instead. Outdoor dining will have to close by 11 p.m. to reduce noise for residents. “Outdoor dining transformed our city once before. I’m so excited for it to do so once again,” Mamdani said in a press conference minutes before signing the measure into law. “Today’s bill signing is

Mayor Mamdani signs Intro. 655 in a dining setting, touting City Hall’s legislative specials. PHOTO BY MICHAEL APPLETON/ NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE

reflective of a different policy choice, one that will make New York City feel even more alive than it currently does.” Councilmember Shanel Thomas-Henry (D-Corona) said, “As Chair of the Committee on Small Business, I’m proud to support a bill that recognizes that when we reduce red tape for entrepreneurs, we strengthen our neighborhoods and build a stronger local economy for everyone.” Applications for yearlong licenses will open early this month. One may visit Q diningout.nyc.info. to learn more.

Page 13 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

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A sweet success for the kids The Howard Beach lemonade stand route that turned the neighborhood’s front yards into a weekend-long sugar rush was a success on every level, according to PJ Marcel, the Howard Beach Dads Facebook group moderator who organized the event. Posts about the tangy circuit were shared roughly 400 times on social media over the weekend to broadcast the more than 45 homes that took part, split between last Saturday and Sunday, Marcel said. Beyond lemonade, other offerings found

amongst the pop-up shops were pizza, hot dogs, cheesecake, cookies, pasta, brownies, cupcakes, quiches and handmade trinkets. The event not only was a fun opportunity for community connection, but also taught the participating children about businesses while helping them brush up on social development skills. “So much generosity goes into teaching the kids,” Marcel told the Chronicle. “It takes a village and I’m proud to be a resident.” — Kristen Guglielmo

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Queens’ municipal election contributions last year by the numbers by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

Candidates in the 2025 municipal elections had backing from more small-dollar donors than years past, new data from the city’s Campaign Finance Board show. In Queens, the Flushing-Murray Hill-Whitestone area contributed the most, at $626,257 total from 3,733 people. Community District 7 was hardly the only area in Queens to show up for its candidates of choice. CD 1, which covers Astoria and Queensbridge, had the most contributors in the borough, at 4,481. That area’s total donations totaled $402,825. Individual donations from residents of Fresh Meadows, Hillcrest and Briarwood, which make up CD 8, averaged $239, the highest mean contributions in Queens. Money from the area’s 1,873 donors totaled more than $448,000. Trailing those neighborhoods with $325,289 contributed by 2,045 donors were Auburndale, Bayside and Douglaston in CD 11. Not far behind were Forest Hills and Rego Park in CD 6, which totaled $306,774 from 2,022 contributors. Each of Queens’ community districts contributed well over $100,000, and the total amount for each area was donated by more than 1,000 people. Other dollar amounts by district in mainland Queens were as follows: • $260,937 from 2,490 donors in CD 2 (Long Island City, Woodside, Sunnyside); • $295,292 from 3,381 donors in CD 3 (Jackson Heights and East Elmhurst); • $130,584 from 1,267 donors in CD 4 (Elmhurst and Corona);

In each Queens community district, individual contributors donated total six-figure amounts to candidates in last year’s elections. CHART BY GREGG COHEN • $266,693 from 2,953 donors in CD 5 (Ridgewood, Maspeth, Middle Village); • $153,149 from 1,176 donors in CD 9 (Kew Gardens, Richmond Hill, Woodhaven);

• $172,094 from 1,309 donors in CD 10 (South Ozone Park and Howard Beach); • $259,804 from 2,318 donors in CD 12 (Jamaica, St. Albans, Hollis); and • $250,499 from 1,881 donors in CD 13 (Queens Village, Bellerose, Rosedale). All the while, independent spenders poured $83.2 million into the field last year, more than double the amount from 2021, the CFB said Tuesday along with the release of its 2025 post-election report. The document examines the role money played in last year’s contests, from individual contributions to matching funds to corporate donations. “The 2025 elections proved that New York City’s public matching funds program, which amplifies the power of small-dollar contributors, really works,” CFB Executive Director Paul Ryan said in a press release. “During a time when democracy is under threat nationwide and outside money pours into politics, the program made it possible for candidates to run for office and win without the backing of big money.” The city’s matching funds program matches small-dollar donations at an $8 to $1 rate. From small-dollar contributions, more than $86 million in public funds was distributed to 131 candidates, according to the CFB. Small-dollar donations made up 88.2 percent of all contributions in the 2025 cycle, and the median amount given was $50. The CFB said that while the outcome of the mayoral race proved small-dollar donations “can stand up against historic levels of big money,” the city can still update campaign finance laws to reflect fundraising in the modern age and Q ensure sufficient disclosure and accountability.

Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

Small-dollar donors showed up in 2025

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026 Page 16

Cops shoot and kill Times Square stabber Woodside woman wielded knives, charged toward police, officials say by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

Police on Monday fatally shot a Woodside woman who stabbed two people in Times Square, killing one, officials say. It was reported to police that Pamela Cisneros, 49, of 71st Street, was armed with two knives and stabbing people along Seventh Avenue in Manhattan at around 4:24 p.m. Aug. 31, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at a press conference later that night. Tisch said that, as per the preliminary investigation, Cisneros took the knives out of a red Target bag, waved them around and stabbed a 68-year-old man in the right side of his abdomen near West 41st Street. He had just exited the subway and was waiting with his wife to cross the street, Tisch said. Cisneros then allegedly moved on Seventh Avenue toward 42nd Street and stabbed 32-year-old Erin Piacenti of Chester, NJ, in the abdomen. Both victims were taken to NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. Piacenti was later pronounced deceased. She was a new mother married two years ago and a Bank of America vice president. Police said the male victim, identified as Tak Kam of Rhode Island in several published news reports, was in stable condition. Tisch said both attacks appeared to be ran-

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Blood drives in S. Queens Donors of all blood types are asked to contribute as the region continues to face what the New York Blood Center calls a n u nprecedented blood emergency. To make an appointment, one may visit nybc.org. There are several upcoming blood d r ives 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 Q coordinator Helen Aviles.

Pamela Cisneros of Woodside, left, was fatally shot by police in Times Square after allegedly stabbing two people, one of whom was killed. At right, two knives were recovered from the scene. SCREENSHOT VIA @BBOYPOP97 / INSTAGRAM, LEFT, AND PHOTO BY MICHAEL APPLETON / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE / FLICKR

dom and unprovoked, and they occurred within 20 seconds of each other. Tisch said witnesses flagged down police officers, who encountered Cisneros between West 42nd and 43rd streets. They spoke with the alleged perpetrator for four minutes, the commissioner said, giving numerous commands to drop the knives that she refused. “During the encounter, she told the officers, ‘I’m not dropping anything. I would rather kill both of you,’” Tisch said. “She repeated,

‘I will kill you.’” Cisneros then waved the knives and advanced toward the cops, Tisch continued, and multiple officers deployed Tasers that proved to be ineffective. Two officers then shot Cisneros, who was pronounced dead at Bellevue. “Our officers were confronted with a rapidly evolving threat with countless innocent people around them,” Tisch said. “In that moment, they did what we trained them to do.” Police

Traveling pandit nabbed for alleged sex assault pect sexually assaulted the victim under the guise of performing a religious cereA Hindu priest, or pandit, mony,” the Durham Regionfrom Richmond Hill was al Police Service said. arrested last week in Canada Following an investigaand charged with sexual tion, Maraj was taken into assault after a woman and custody without incident, her family allegedly hired authorities said, and was him for religious purposes. held for a bail hearing. According to a press The USA Pandits Parirelease from the Durham shad, based in Hollis, was Regional Police Service, officers responded to a call Rajendranauth Doodnauth among those in the Hindu in Oshawa, Ontario, on Aug. Maraj, 50, of Richmond community to react to the 25. Once they arrived, a Hill, allegedly sexually news. The group released a female victim told cops that assaulted a woman under statement condemning the she and her family employed the guise of performing a alleged crimes. “Any form of misconduct Rajendranauth Doodnauth religious ceremony. Maraj, 50, from the United DURHAM REGIONAL POLICE PHOTO or harm perpetrated under the pretext of religious cereStates, to perform a religious monies is a severe violation of spiritual ceremony. The pandit allegedly deceived the duty,” the statement, posted to Facebook, woman into believing she was possessed said. The USAPP also noted that Maraj is by evil spirits and needed a specific cere- not a member of the group. Police are concerned there may be addimony to heal herself, according to the tional victims. Those with information on authorities. “The suspect exploited the victim into similar incidents are encouraged to submit attending a private location where the sus- tips online at tinyurl.com/mpuddm5a. Q

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

said the knives were recovered at the scene, and the investigation remains ongoing. Tisch said Cisneros had a documented mental health history with the NYPD, with one incident recorded in 2018 and another in 2019. Video footage of Cisneros’ interaction with the officers, posted on Instagram by the user @bboypop97, shows her holding the knives while speaking to them. She can be seen waving her arms in circles, still holding the weapons, followed by the sound of Tasers. She then appears to scurry toward the officers, wielding the knives with arms outstretched, before she is shot and falls to the ground. Some comments under the post defended the cops’ response, saying they did what was necessary. Others say they did not need that level of force to deescalate the situation. As is standard, Mayor Mamdani said, there will be an internal investigation, and body camera footage will be made public. “I want to thank the NYPD officers who stepped in and prevented a horrific attack from becoming even worse,” Mamdani said at the press conference. “This is what the men and women of this department do every single day to keep our city safe.” State law also charges Attorney General Letitia James with conducting an investigaQ tion.

Man found dead in OZP A man was found dead with a stab wound in an Ozone Park apartment complex parking lot early Wednesday morning, according to the NYPD. Cops said police responded to a call reporting a person in need of aid across from 133-30 87 St. at 4:38 a.m. Officers arrived to find the man, 59, unconscious and unresponsive with trauma to the head and a stab wound to the torso. EMS responded to the scene and transported him to One Brooklyn Health-Brookdale Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased. His identity is being withheld pending family notification. There were no arrests by press time, cops said, and the investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577TIPS (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. All tips are strictly confidential. Q

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Lifeguard has heard more complaints in three days than in 25 years on the job by Samantha Maldonado

cia-Salazar said, noting she’s still using the steroid. “My arm is full of blisters and I keep it wrapped up because it’s gross.”

THE CITY REPORTER

This article was originally published on Sept. 2, 9:00 a.m. EDT by THE CITY REPORTER. The end of summer can sting. And for many beachgoers in the Rockaways, that’s not a metaphor. A plethora of jellyf ish have appeared on the peninsula’s shores and in its Atlantic waters in numbers locals haven’t seen in years, New Yorkers have said in recent weeks. The squishy creatures have been spotted floating in the ocean and sitting as blobs on the sand. Swimmers and surfers have reported stings on social media and message boards, ranging in severity from pain similar to a fly bite to requiring medical attention. “Jellyfish are a normal part of the ocean, so it’s not unusual that we see a variety of species show up,” said Paul Bologna, a marine biologist at Montclair State University who studies the invertebrates. But in the last couple of weeks, he said, a pink- and purple-colored species called mauve stingers that typically stays farther offshore has moved closer to beaches, especially those in New Jersey and on Long Island. He chalked up the jellyfish’s movement to winds and tidal currents. “The big problem with them is they’ve got a really nasty sting,” Bologna said. “I stung myself with one once just to see how bad it was about a decade ago, and I said a lot of choice four-letter words.” Getting stung by a mauve stinger, which has long tentacles and is also known as pelagia noctiluca, can result in large, red welts. “We have a bunch of different jellies in our area. Technically, all of them can sting you if they’re true jellies, but a lot of them, it’s not really problematic,” Bologna said. “These

A lined water jellyfish washed ashore at Fort Tilden Beach, Aug. 30, 2026. PHOTO BY SAMANTHA MALDONADO / THE CITY REPORTER

mauve stingers — I have often heard them referred to as purple meanies — are one of those that really cause a lot of pain.” ‘Poison ivy’-like sting marks Bobby Butler, a longtime Rockaway Beach lifeguard, said he noticed the “kind of beautiful, purplish” mauve stingers for the first time just last week, when he got stung himself. “It almost looks like I have poison ivy on my arms right now,” he said. “I’ve heard more jellyfish complaints in the past three days than I’ve heard in 25 years lifeguarding.” Paula Garcia-Salazar, a lawyer who lives in South Slope, likely experienced the wrath of a mauve stinger. During a swim at Rockaway Beach on Aug. 22, she said, she felt a hard pinch on her right forearm. “I thought I was gonna pull my arm out of the water and see a crab hanging there,” she said. After a few days, Garcia-Salazar said, the stinging got worse and itchier, then her arm became swollen and the mark looked like a burn. She

went to an urgent care facility and got a topical steroid. A week later, after some improvement, she went to a doctor because the sting flared up again. “I didn’t think that the jellyfish in the Rockaways stung so badly,” Gar-

Different types of jellyfish Workers at the National Park Service put up signs at Riis Beach and Fort Tilden Beach this past weekend, warning about jellyfish in the water. Bologna reviewed photos of jellyfish washed up near the beach at Fort Tilden and identified both the perfectly clear ones and ones with subtle pink stripes as lined water jellies, or rhacostoma atlanticum. Compared to mauve stingers, there’s no need to worry about lined water jellies, he said. “They’ve got little tentacles. Their stinging cells are really small,” he said. “It doesn’t puncture your skin, and by the time they wash up on the beach, they’re completely harmless.” The mauve stingers, however, can still sting even when dead, so beachgoers should steer clear of those sitting on the sand. Rose Mayo of Astoria said she got

stung Friday after a few minutes of swimming at Rockaway Beach. “You know biting flies? It felt like a little more intense version of that,” she said. “It wasn’t terrible.” Mayo, 37, said the sting on the inside of her thigh looked like a blotchy group of bumps that swelled up for about an hour or two. The next day, the bumps were gone. Bologna recommended spraying white vinegar on jellyfish stings to immobilize any leftover tentacles or stinging cells, then rinsing with salt water. Tap or bottled water will cause an osmotic shock, where the cells swell and burst, resulting in a worse sting. After you wipe the area clean, use a hot compress. It’s a myth that urinating on a jellyfish sting helps reduce the pain, Bologna pointed out. “The peeing thing — no,” he Q said. THE CITY REPORTER (thecityreporter.nyc) is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to hard-hitting reporting that serves the people of New York.

Paula Garcia-Salazar, left, got stung by a jellyfish at Rockaway Beach in late August and photographed her welts on Sept. 1. A mauve stinger jellyfish appeared in the surf of the Rockaway Peninsula, filmed by a Reddit user on Aug. 28. PHOTOS COURTESY PAULA GARCIA-SALAZAR, LEFT, AND BRIANNA RETTIG VIA THE CITY REPORTER

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Jellyfish clog shore, sting swimmers in Rockaway

The public is welcome to check out, via Zoom, a Queens College faculty panel discussion on the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks called Tragedy, Trauma, and Transformation: The 9/11 Catastrophe 25 Years Later. The talk will be held from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. on Sept. 9. Students may attend in person, but because seating is limited, members of the public are invited to observe the discussion online. T h e y m ay r e g i s t e r a t t i ny u r l . com/468dvccr. Registration enables people to submit questions via the Zoom chat function for a Q-and-A segment. Topics will include how anger and retributive reactions to 9/11 affected U.S. foreign policy, by political science professor Peter Liberman; effects on those who cleared the World Trade Center site and those living nearby, as well as the WTC health program established to assist them, by professor Steven Markowitz; and how 9/11 impacted the redevelopment of Downtown Manhattan and beyond, by professor Melissa Checker. College interim President Elizabeth Hendrey will offer remarks. More than 40 people connected to the Q school were killed in the attacks. — Peter C. Mastrosimone

TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AFTER 9/11: LIGHT STILL SHINES

Museum exhibit for 9/11 anniversary by Kristina Raevsky Chronicle Contributor

Next week is the commemoration of the 25th anniversary of the Sep. 11, 2001 attacks, a day of horrific tragedy and sadness that changed the United States forever. To honor 9/11, a free exhibit will run starting next Wednesday in the GodwinTer nbach Museum, part of CU NY’s Queens College in Flushing. “‘Memento Mori: 9/11 Twenty-Five Years Later’ creates a meditative space for reflection, remembrance, and education through artworks and archival materials responding to September 11, 2001,” the museum said in a statement. “Centered on six oversized photographs of Tribute in Light (2002), the exhibition invites visitors to consider the enduring impact of 9/11 and the role of art in preserving personal and collective memory.” Tribute in Light has been shining annually since the attack, mirroring the size and position of the Twin Towers and symbolizing the city’s resilience.

Displayed photos show the Tribute in Light, honoring 9/11 and the Twin Towers. PHOTO COURTESY JULIAN LAVERDIERE / PAUL MYODA

The exhibit will also include books, magazines, artwork, poetry, panels from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum recounting the day’s events and more. It runs from Sept. 9 to Nov. 30 at 405 Klapper Hall at 65-30 Kissena Blvd. For more details, visit gtmuseum.org, and for campus map and directions, visit tinyurl.com/bd2jwsu8. Q

Annual 9/11 events in HB Every year, the Howard Beach community attends events to renew pledges to never forget the events of Sept. 11, 2001, and the lives lost. This year, the 25th anniversary of the terrorists attacks, is no different. The annual candlelit vigil organized by Frances Scarantino of Reach for the Stars Community Center will return to the parking lot of St. Helen Roman Catholic Church, at the corner of 84th Street and 157th Avenue, on Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. In the event of rain, the ceremony will move across the street to Father Dooley Hall. At 11 a.m. the following day, Sept. 12, the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic will have its annual Flag Carry and Remembrance Walk. Participants will meet in the parking lot of Vetro Restaurant and Lounge, at 164-49 Cross Bay Blvd., and travel north up the boulevard to 157th Avenue, where the procession will then head west to the 9/11 Memorial Plaza. “Let’s all join together as we did on September 12, 2001, united, to honor and remember all those who were affected by the terror attack on our city,” the civic Q wrote on its Facebook page. — Kristen Guglielmo

Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

College 9/11 talk next week

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pen PHOTOS BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO

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Fan Week is a smash at the US

The US Open brings fans from near and far to the Billie Jean Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows Corona Park to watch some of the best tennis players in the world show their stuff. The city estimates the showing generates $1.2 billion in economic impact annually. During the penultimate day of Fan Week — seven days of free festivities at the Open, including opportunities to meet players and watch qualifying rounds — the Chronicle last Friday spoke to attendees who visited from thousands of miles away, and some who simply had to hop on the 7 train to get in on the fun. In the first row, a woman on stilts greets a family in attendance, left; and a focused crowd braves the humidity to observe a qualifying round.

In the second row, Janet and Whitney Uchendo of Rosedale are all smiles, left; Isley, Aylette and Domingo Carrasco of Woodside make the festivities a family affair; and Davis, Jurlando, Tegan and Dana of Middle Village take time to recharge between watching matches. In the third row, tennis superstar Carlos Alcaraz of Spain makes his way through a crowd of eager fans, left; John and Jordan of Jackson Heights spend a moment in the shade; and Alexia, right, came all the way from Great Neck, LI, to get in on the fun with her family in Queens. At right, the Abiyaghi family made their way to the Open from New Jersey and spent two hours in the sun to have a prime view of the stage for Fan Week programming. — Kristen Guglielmo

Page 21 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

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Various types of Most people tend to focus on one type of exercise or activity and think they’re doing enough. Research has shown that it’s important to get all three types: aerobic, musclestrengthening, and balance. Doing one type of exercise can help improve your ability to do the others, and variety helps reduce boredom and risk of injury. There are also activities that incorporate multiple types of exercise, such as yoga, dancing, or water aerobics. No matter your age, you can find activities that meet your fitness level and needs and help improve your overall health! Aerobic exercises for older adults Sometimes referred to as endurance or cardio, aerobic physical activity involves moving the body’s large muscles for extended periods of time. This requires the lungs to move more air and the heart to pump more blood and deliver it to the working muscles. Aerobic physical activity increases your breathing and heart rate. Being physically active in this way — with consistency over time — will improve your endurance and the health of your lungs, heart, and circulatory system. It can also help lower the risk of many diseases that are common in older adults, such as diabetes, certain cancers, and heart disease. Gradually build up to at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) each week. If exercising with chronic conditions makes it hard to get the recommended amount of activity, talk with your doctor about what you can do. In general, it’s a good idea to be as physically active as you can — even light-intensity movement can be beneficial. Try to be active throughout your day and avoid sitting for long periods of time. Examples of moderate-intensity activities that build endurance include: • yard work, such as raking leaves or pushing a lawnmower; • housework, such as moppi ng or vacuuming; • dancing; • swimming; • bicycling; • climbing stairs or hills; and • playing pickleball. Safety tips • Listen to your body. Aerobic activities should not cause dizziness, chest pain or pressure, or nausea. • Do a little light activity, such as easy walking, before and after your aerobic activities to warm up and cool down. • Be sure to drink water when doing any activity that makes you sweat. If your doctor has told you to limit your fluids, be sure to check before increasing the amount of fluid you drink while exercising. • If you are going to be exercising outdoors, be aware of the weather and your surroundings. • To prevent injuries, use safety equipment, such as a helmet when bicycling, and

Quick tip: Test your exercise intensity When you’re being active, try talking. If you’re breathing hard but can still have a conversation easily, it’s likely moderate-intensity activity. If you can only say a few words before you have to take a breath, it’s vigorous-intensity activity, such as running or jogging. Building up to 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity or doing a combination of both moderate- and vigorous-activity can also count toward your aerobic exercise goal. proper exercise shoes and clothes. • Talk with your doctor if you are unsure about a particular activity. Muscle-strengthening exercises for older adults Muscle-strengthening exercises, sometimes called strength training or resistance training, are activities that require the muscles to contract, often to lift a heavy object agai nst the pu ll of g ravit y. G radu al increases in the amount of weight, number of sets or repetitions, or the number of days a week of exercise will result in stronger muscles. Muscle-strengthening activities improve physical function and can help you stay independent and make it easier to perform everyday activities, such as getting up from a chair, climbing stairs, and carrying groceries. This type of exercise is also key to maintaining existing strength, slowing the loss of muscle mass, and helping to prevent falls and fall-related injuries. Try doing muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week to work the major muscle groups of the body (muscles of the legs, hips, chest, back, abdomen, shoulders, and arms), but avoid working the same muscle group on any two days in a row to allow for muscle recovery between sessions. The exercises should involve at least a moderate level of intensity or effort and be performed to the point at which it would be difficult to do another repetition. One set of eight to 12 repetitions of each exercise is effective, although two or three sets may be more effective. If you are a beginner, try exercises without weights or resistance bands (stretchy elastic bands that come in varying strengths) until you are comfortable with the movements. Exa mples of muscle -st reng then i ng

Flexibility Flexibility is the ability of a joint to move through the full range of motion. Stretching can help maintain and improve flexibility. Moving more freely will also make it easier for you to exercise and perform activities of daily life, such as reaching down to tie your shoes or unloading the dishwasher. Stretch when your muscles are warmed up and after endurance or strength exercises, remember to breathe, and don’t stretch so far that it hurts.

exercise can improve your health activities include: • u si ng r e sis t a nc e ba nd s , weig ht machines, or hand-held weights; • lifting your body weight, with exercises such as arm circles, leg raises, pushups, pullups, planks, squats, or lunges; • carrying heavy items, such as groceries; and • gardening, which may require digging and lifting. Safety tips • Listen to your body. Overdoing musclestrengthening exercises can cause exhaustion, sore joints, and muscle pain or injury. • Warm up for muscle-strengthening activity by doing exercises with less weight.

Combining these types of physical activity Older adults need a mix of physical activities to stay healthy. As part of your weekly activity, include a combination of aerobic, musclestrengthening, and balance activities. You can also combine more than one type of exercise into the same exercise session. Activities such as dancing, yoga, tai chi, gardening, or sports can also be considered a combination because they often incorporate multiple types of physical activity.

• Don’t hold your breath during strength exercises — breathe out during the effort and breathe in as you relax. • Avoid “locking” your arm and leg joints in a straight position. • If you are unsure about doing a particular movement, seek guidance from your doctor or physical therapist. Consider scheduling a session or two with a personal trainer or look for a group class at a local gym, recreation center, or senior center to learn proper form. Free online videos demonst rating specif ic strength exercises can also help. Balance exercises for older adults Balance involves maintaining the body’s stability while still or in motion. As with muscle-strengthening exercises, balance exercises help to prevent falls and fall-related injuries. Aim for about three sessions of balance exercises a week. Examples of balance exercises include: • Tai chi (a “moving meditation” that involves shifting the body slowly, gently, and precisely, while breathing deeply); • yoga; • standing on one foot; • the heel-to-toe walk; • the balance walk; • walking backward or sideways;

• practicing standing from a sitting position; and • using a wobble board. Safety tips • Listen to you r body. If you feel unsteady, take action to steady yourself. • Go slowly and mindfully to prevent falling. • If you are unsure about doing a particu-

Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

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lar movement, seek guidance from your doctor or physical therapist. • Have a sturdy chair, person, or wall nearby to hold onto for support. • Wear comfortable, stable footwear or go barefoot to have grip on the floor or mat. P This content is provided by the NIH National Institute on Aging. NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026 Page 24

Legal battle over mail-in ballots

PHOTO BY MALGORZATA BARTYZEL

Photo contest! September is here, but the Queens Chronicle’s 18th annual Summer in the Borough Photo Contest goes on until the equinox. Let’s see your submissions! Go out and take your best shots of families gathering, children playing, workers working, lovely landscapes, birds on the bay — whatever says “summertime in Queens.” If you’d like some inspiration, take a look at this lovely winner from 2020, taken by Mal-

gorzata Bartyzel on Jamaica Bay. As to the rules, there are just a few, so please go to tinyurl.com/yafmtxv3 to see them all. Send your high-resolution digital photos to peterm@qchron.com, or mail prints to Queens Chronicle Photo Contest, 71-19 80 St., suite 8-201, Glendale, NY 11385. The winner gets a $50 gift card. The deadline is Wednesday, Sept. 23, the day after summer ends. Good luck! — Peter C. Mastrosimone

Estate Planning Fundamentals: Avoiding Probate With a Revocable Trust

For the latest news visit qchron.com

By Cynthia J. Conza, Esq. Clients often ask whether they should prepare a will or set up a revocable trust. To answer that question, it is important to understand the differences between these two important estate planning tools. Fundamentally, both a will and a revocable trust are designed to transfer your assets to your beneficiaries when you die. You will also name an individual to carry out your wishes: the executor in your will or the trustee in your trust. Both a will and a revocable trust can be changed as many times as you wish while you are still alive. You also retain complete control over the assets you identify in your will or revocable trust. There are also significant differences between a will and a revocable trust. A primary difference is by putting your assets into a revocable trust you are allowing your beneficiaries to avoid the probate process in Surrogate’s Court. Probate can be expensive and may take

many months. By avoiding the delay of probate a revocable trust gives beneficiaries immediate access to assets upon death. A revocable trust also prevents a will contest by an heir you purposefully left out of your will or received less than they think they deserved. A revocable trust can also ensure the inheritances you leave remain in your bloodline for your grandchildren and not end up with in-laws. Similarly, a revocable trust can protect the inheritances you leave from your children’s divorces or creditors. Married couples with taxable estates can also reduce and often eliminate estate taxes with a revocable trust. Choosing between a will or revocable trust is an important decision and will have a significant impact on your children and beneficiaries. Please feel free to contact me at cynthia@conzamcnamara.com or (718) 845-5555 if you would like to discuss further.

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continued from page 2 Postal Service.” The USPS said also that it received Blumenthal’s letter and is carefully reviewing the concerns raised. St. John’s University political analyst Brian Browne termed the ongoing legal battle “a solution in search of a problem,” saying it will likely be settled by the Supreme Court. The new requirements’ fate could be determined by the question of whether the executive branch can impose them without congressional action, he said. “Any forthcoming court rulings will likely focus less on the political arguments of voter fraud and more on constitutional authority, federalism, and the practical realities of implementing new election procedures right before a national election,” Browne said via email. The published rule says it is “fully appropriate” for the Postal Service to “take actions deemed necessary to ensure the faithful execution of federal law and enhance the efficiency of postal operations.” The USPS wrote that states maintain control over their own voter registration rolls and decide who in their jurisdiction can vote by mail. The rule does not authorize the inspection of mail-in ballots’ contents, the agency said. Asked if the rule would reduce election fraud, Browne said supporters argue that the required barcodes, standardized envelopes and voter list verification could make ballot tracking more reliable and limit clerical errors. But, he continued, election-fraud experts and voting-rights advocates say documented cases of mail-ballot fraud have historically been rare.

Browne does not foresee either total implementation or invalidation before the midterms. “The most likely near-term outcome is continued litigation, possible appellate review, and a patchwork of rulings determining whether some or all the requirements can be used in 2026,” he said, explaining that judges may be equally hesitant to block an implemented rule and to require the states to make major last-minute changes. James praised Talwani’s move to block the rule, saying it was halted “before this administration could wreak havoc on our elections.” “The USPS does not have the authority to decide who can and cannot vote by mail,” she said. “My office will keep fighting to ensure this rule cannot disrupt our midterm elections.” U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) on X last Saturday defended voting by mail, saying it is “easy, safe, and secure” and “makes our democracy stronger.” “We cannot let Trump continue this attack on our right to vote,” Meng said. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica) said on Facebook Aug. 25 that the restrictions have “nothing to do with securing elections,” but rather are “part of Trump and Republicans’ very obvious scheme to restrict access to the ballot box and rig elections.” Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-Brooklyn, Queens) concurred, saying on X that the order is really about stopping people from voting, not election security. “Democracies thrive when they achieve both broad voter participation and public confidence in election integrity,” Browne said. “The challenge now facing the courts is balancing those Q two objectives.”

Free legal services in AD 38 Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) is hosting a free legal aid clinic for her constituents on Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event, at her district office at 83-91 Woodhaven Blvd., will offer residents the opportunity to have one-on-one consultations with attorneys on a range of civil, non-criminal legal matters, including housing, public benefits, identity theft, debt management, immigration, intimate partner violence, divorce, custody, employment and estate planning. Consultations with an attorney are

available by appointment only. Those who wish to reserve a slot should contact Rajkumar’s office at (718) 805-0950, or rajkumarj@nyassembly.gov. All constituents are eligible to receive legal services regardless of immigration status, per the event flier. “Access to justice is a fundamental right, no matter your bank account,” Rajkumar said in a statement. “This free legal clinic will connect our neighbors with expert advice so they can understand their rights, navigate difficult legal challenges, and find a path forward.” Q

Queens flood control on the way continued from page 6 “Climate change is reshaping our world, and we need to reshape the infrastructure of our city in return,” said Commissioner Lisa Garcia of the city’s Department of Environmental Protection, saying the project is part of “reimagining what our streets can be.” State Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said Hochul’s administration has made record state investments in green infrastructure and other water quality improvements, and that “stormwater management projects like these new green corridors that will greatly benefit Queens Village, Whitestone and Forest Hills.” “By supporting projects that work with

nature to manage severe weather, the State is helping New York City build resilience while minimizing costs for ratepayers,” said Maureen Coleman, president and CEO of the New York State Environmental Facilities Corp. City Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn said concrete medians have sound pedestrian and traffic safety benefits. “But they can also play an important role in protecting our city from the dangers of extreme weather and flooding,” Flynn said. “As New York City sees more and more intense rainstorms due to climate change, now more than ever it’s crucial to improve and rethink our infrastructure to protect New Yorkers against Q growing environmental threats.”

September 3, 2026

Page 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

ARTS, AR ART TS C CULTURE & LIVING

by Michael Gannon

“Are they on their way to the World Trade Center? ” There wa s a long silence. “Yes.” It would not be the last time Farino-Thomas would have difficulty getting information on what

happened to her husband and his crew on Sept. 11. His body would not be recovered. Now, she and her cousin, Robert Trotta, have written “Engine 26: A Story of Loss, Duty and Memory,” a 110-page memoir detailing Mary’s and Tom’s life together with their children and her struggles and triumphs — and even a few laughs — in the last 25 years. It is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other booksellers for $18.99 and on Kindle. many contradictions.” “There were so many unanswered questions surS h e w a n t e d t o d o c u m e n t e v e r y t h i ng . “This way my children, grandchildren and so on will have a lasting account of what and why their father, grandfather, great-grandfather is considered a ‘hero.’” Trotta, a retired Queens teacher, taught journalism and has been published in New York City newspapers. He also interviewed family members rounding which building Tom was in when the col- and friends. lapse happened,” Farino-Thomas told the Chronicle Part of the impetus for the book, which took in an email. “Questions of when they were about six months, was the 25th anniversary of dispatched. Questions that if you tried to look the terror attacks. up ans wer s online you would have so continued on page 27

For the latest news visit qchron.com

ary Farino-Thomas kissed her husband, FDNY Capt. Tom Farino, goodbye on Sept. 10, 2001 as he left their Suffolk County home for a 24-hour shift with Engine 26 in Manhattan. They spoke on the phone the next morning at 8 a.m. She told him she loved him as she was getting their children, Jane, 10, and James, 6, out t he door to school a nd her self to wor k. Soon after arriving at her office she was on the phone to the firehouse being told Farino wasn’t there.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026 Page 26

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

King Crossword Puzzle David Schwimmer had ‘Friends’ in Fresh Meadows

ACROSS

1 Actor Sharif 5 “Humbug!” 8 JFK guesses 12 Cape --, Portugal 13 In the style of 14 Seniors’ gp. 15 Manhattan, for one 17 China (Pref.) 18 “Sopranos” restaurateur 19 Brunch fare 21 Thick chunk 24 TV spots 25 Ancient invader 28 Uber competitors 30 Mas’ mates 33 Chef Garten 34 Bo of “10” 35 Pen filler 36 -- chi 37 Location 38 -- B’rith 39 Young fellow 41 “Absolutely!” 43 Texas city 46 Caravan stops 50 Big rackets 51 Pulled-back hairdo 54 Icelandic epic 55 Chang’s brother 56“Andor”actorDiego-57 Optimistic 58 Tic-tac-toe loser 59 Mountain ht.

DOWN 1 Sea predator 2 Heath

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

3 Ad agcy. client 4 Debonair 5 Sheep call 6 Boxer Laila 7 Angelic light 8 Allayed 9 Severe decline 10 “Rule, Britannia!” composer 11 Espy 16 Aviv preceder

20 Mardi Gras wear 22 Computer brand 23 Exposes 25 “Shoo!” 26 -- tear (raging) 27 Hindmost parts 29 Boyfriend 31 Comic Gasteyer 32 Enjoy Aspen 34 June honorees 38 Ringo, for one

40 Analyze 42 Trigger’s rider 43 Baltic feeder 44 Queen of Carthage 45 Pinnacle 47 Biblical king 48 Aachen article 49 Serb or Croat 52 Musician Yoko 53 Private aid gp. Answers on next page

Arthur Schwimmer was born March 12, 1941, the only child of Bertram Schwimmer, a successful attorney and insurance broker in Brooklyn. After graduating Columbia University and Brooklyn Law School, he met Arlene Lois Cohen, born Nov. 2, 1940 (the family legally changed its name to Colman in 1944), also a law school grad. They were married in March 1964. They made their home at 75-34 Utopia Pkwy. on the edge of Hillcrest and the Utopia section of Fresh Meadows, and were blessed with a daughter, Ellie, in 1965. David followed on Nov. 2, 1966. They soon moved to 80 East Argyle St. in Valley Stream, LI. Arlene became a successful divorce attorney, and in 1976 they moved to Beverly Hills, Calif., where she represented stars such as Elizabeth Taylor. David originally was not happy in California and wanted to be a doctor. After he took an acting class, things changed. He graduated college with a BA in theater and speech. He got small parts on TV until 1994, when he was selected to play Ross

SPORTS

The first childhood home of “Friends” actor David Schwimmer was at 75-34 Utopia Pkwy. in Hillcrest, seen as it looks today. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET BY GDCGRAPHICS VIA WIKIPEDIA

Geller on “Friends” and became a household name. As his career took off, he got into directing, producing and film, too, including as the voice of Melman in the animated “Madagascar” movies. Schwimmer was married to artist Zoe Buckman from 2010 to 2017 and they have a daughter. His many fans can always look Q forward to more great work by him.

BEAT

Optimism at the Open by Lloyd Carroll

PHOTO COURTESY NYS SENATE

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Chronicle Contributor

Seniors make masterpieces More than two dozen seniors on Aug. 28 gave painting a try in Forest Hills, during a class hosted by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. The free event at American Legion Continental Post 1424 was led by Frances Scarantino, right, owner of Reach for the Stars in Howard Beach, which runs children’s programs. Scarantino and her assistant, Gianna Fulgieri, guided attendees in painting vibrant tropical sunsets and palm trees. Addabbo held the class to recognize August as American Artist Appreciation

Month. On Aug. 19, he hosted an art therapy session at Ridgewood’s Peter Cardella Senior Center, led by Gennaro Kravitz. “American Artist Appreciation Month is a chance to celebrate the power of creativity — and today’s class shows how art can bring joy, connection, and purpose to our community,” Addabbo said in a press release. “I’m grateful to Reach for the Stars and American Legion Post 1424 for helping make this event possible, and I thank everyone who participated.” — Stephanie G. Meditz

The 2026 US Open is underway at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The annual storyline of “Will this be the event in which an American male tennis player ends the 23-year Grand Slam drought?” may finally have an affirmative answer. It would be especially timely coming on the heels of the Knicks winning their first NBA title since 1973. The reason for optimism goes beyond the law of averages. The top player in the world, Italy’s Jannik Sinner, had to withdraw from this year’s Open because of a balky knee. Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz, the defending US Open men’s champion, is playing, but he has missed the last four months on the men’s tennis tour with a sore wrist and probably will not be at his best. During last Friday’s media interview session, I asked American player Frances Tiafoe if he felt more pressure to win given Sinner’s absence. “Carlos Alcaraz, Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev are still playing in this tournament. I have lost at the US Open many times, and it was not to any of those players,” Tiafoe responded, alluding to the depth of talent at the Open. Tiafoe’s friend and fellow American Ben Shelton was the highest-ranked American player (sixth in the world) coming into this year’s tournament. When asked about snapping the lengthy

winless streak, he knew the question was coming and relied on the classic sports cliche, “I must play one match at a time. I cannot afford to look ahead.” The 2016 US Open champion, Stan Wawrinka, was originally not part of the main draw. He hoped to be offered a wildcard entry since he announced he will retire at the end of 2026. The 41-year-old refused to take part in the qualifiers. The United States Tennis Association relented last week and gave him his desired wildcard. Aryna Sabalenka thanked the USTA for listening to the newly formed players council. She cited that as the reason for the organization offering $108 million in prize money, which is the highest in US Open history. The USTA paid tribute to the late Dolly Parton, playing her signature hit “Jolene” before a Tuesday doubles match at Arthur Ashe Stadium. It turned into a terrific singalong, which was shown on CBS’s “Inside Edition” that evening. Even though Fan Week concluded last Saturday, next Thursday, Sept. 10, will be another chance to stroll the grounds of the Billie Jean King Tennis Center at no charge. You can watch the junior boys’ and girls’ tournaments on the side courts, as well as wheelchair tennis contests. Most of the food kiosks and exhibitor booths Q should be open. See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

by Stephanie G. Meditz editor

MoMA PS1’s Homeroom space will soon become part of an ongoing call to action by a broad coalition of artists, several of whom have ties to Queens. Artists Against the Bomb, a traveling poster exhibition in support of universal nuclear disarmament, will display works at the Long Island City museum from Sept. 10 to Feb. 8. The initiative, organized by artist Pedro Reyes in collaboration with the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, includes more than 250 new and historical works in various forms. “It’s really a massive, intersectional effort with artists participating from all over the world,” MoMA PS1 associate curator and exhibition organizer Elena Ketelsen González said in a statement. “Reyes describes it, in contrast to the effects of nuclear arms, as ‘a chain reaction that is creative, not destructive.’ Artists can nominate peers to participate, and it is an effort that is constantly growing.” On display at MoMA PS1 will be posters, sculptures, drawings, videos and more by more than 80 artists, including a mushroom cloud and doomsday clock by Reyes himself. The show also will include a takeaway newsprint, and visitors can design their own

MoMA PS1’s Homeroom space will soon become part of Artists Against the Bomb’s ongoing call to action. Above, the coalition held a walking exhibition as part of New York’s 2025 Nuclear Ban Week. PHOTO BY DARREN ORNITZ / ICAN; COURTESY AATB; VIA MOMAPS1.ORG posters to pin to a corkboard in Homeroom’s classroom area. Ketelsen González said MoMA PS1 deliberately included artists with ties to the museum. Among the artists connected to Queens itself is Isamu Noguchi, who she said deeply inspired the AATB project — the show will feature a large-scale poster of his unrealized Memorial to the Dead of Hiroshima.

“Noguchi’s practice is one of the most important references in the show, and his commitment to anti-nuclear activism was robust,” Ketelsen González said, adding that Reyes studied those models and drawings, all of which are archived at Long Island City’s Noguchi Museum. Other artists with ties to MoMA PS1 include Regina José Galindo, Nani Chacón,

Art & Language and Carlos Amorales. Ketelsen González said Homeroom for years has gathered artists and activists “to present creative interventions that reflect the most pressing issues in Queens.” The issue of nuclear arms — one that is urgent but often ignored — intersects with those other struggles for dignity, she said. “Aesthetically, it has roots in the agitprop interventions of artists who have shown at PS1 throughout its history,” she said. “But it is decidedly not art historical, it’s a living, growing project, just like all we do in Homeroom. It’s both an exhibition and place of ongoing dialogue and gathering.” Ketelsen González said she hopes guests walk away from the show with an understanding of the urgency around nuclear disarmament — the United States never signed the United Nations’ Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, nor have other nuclear-armed countries — and artists’ key roles in activist struggles. “Creative calls to action are incredibly effective protest tools, and they also provide a public, historical record of dissent,” Ketelsen González said. Admission to MoMA PS1, located at 22-25 Jackson Ave., is free for all. One may call (718) 784-2086 or email mail_ps1@ Q moma.org to learn more.

Page 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

Art as a catalyst for change on nuclear bombs

A widow’s search for answers after 9/11

Crossword Answers

member of the NYPD when he took the FDNY exam, was a captain, a rising star and on the battalion chief promotion list at age 37. He received the honor posthumously. She would wait days for Tom to come home. Family members and friends would visit Manhattan hospitals and information centers. After acceptance, there was the wait to get word that he had been found, to have a proper funeral. And all the time she had those nagging questions, ones that had no simple answers. It took a while — and FDNY photos — to show that Engine 26 first reported to the North Tower before being assigned to the South. Trotta said searches for the names of those killed from Engine 26 would come up with different results. But dogged detective work and help from a few retired firefighters, gave the authors a timeline of Engine 26’s last hours. There are photos and biographies of Fire Marshal Paul Pisani, Firefighters Robert Spear Jr., Paul Tegtmeier and Dana Hannon, who died with Tom; and the account of firefighter Michael Incantalupo, who was badly inured, and possibly saved by a direct order from Farino to stay outside to perform other duties.

Mary Farino-Thomas and Robert Trotta wrote of her life after losing her husband, Capt. Tom Farino, on 9/11. On the cover: Farino’s rig approaches the burning World Trade Center, and he is honored Nov. 8, 2001, at his COURTESY PHOTOS memorial service. “Lupo” would hear the last garbled radio transmission from the fifth floor: “We need help ... We’re holding position ... “ Farino-Thomas writes of going through insurance records when she found a note from Tom among the “line of duty” paperwork: “Don’t spend it all the first year,” making her laugh on one of the worst days of her life. “It was as if he knew Mary would desperately need that,” the book says.

Jane is a special-education teacher with three daughters of her own. James, a New York State court officer, has a son. And the “Thomas” following the hyphen in her last name is for retired Firefighter Brian Thomas, a friend of Tom’s with whom she barely had spoken before 9/11. They have Q been married for 22 years.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

continued from page 25 “There’s no formula for the grieving,” Trotta said in an interview. “The time was right for her. She was looking for answers. This is Mary’s story — her recollections.” Farino-Thomas, then Mary Farino, was living her dream in 2001. She was married to Tom, the boy she met in South Ozone Park as a teenager. They had two wonderful children. And Tom, a doting father, her rock in times of worry, a

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Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Multani to Jagmohan Singh.

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.

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.

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 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 FUTURE HUMAN INITIATIVE, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/21/26. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 12207-2543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of CLEANING SERVICES LEON LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/22/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNYshall mail a copy of process to: MARIA FERNANDA LEON ORTIZ, 65-46 WOODSIDE AVE., WOODSIDE, NY 11377. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Hill Court LLC, Arts of Org

Satpal Singh, R/o H.No. 15, Street No.1, Near Guru Amar Dass Nagar, Kalia Farm, Jalandhar declare that I have changed my name from Jagmohan Singh

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FDIC LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF MERGER OF BANKS Notice is hereby given that Alma Bank, 28-31 31st Street, Astoria, Queens County, New York 11102, has filed an application with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation for its written consent for American Community Bank, 300 Glen Street, Glen Cove, Nassau County, New York 77027, the wholly-owned subsidiary of American Community Bancorp, Inc., Glen Cove, New York, to merge with and into Alma Bank. Alma Bank will be the resulting entity from the bank merger and the separate corporate existence of American Community Bank will cease. It is contemplated that all offices of American Community Bank and Alma Bank will continue to be operated following the proposed merger transactions. This notice is published pursuant to Section 18(c) of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act. Any person wishing to comment on this application is encouraged to submit comments through the FDIC’s website at https://cra.fdic. gov/. Any person wishing to comment on the application may file his or her comments, in writing, with the Regional Director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at its New York Regional Office at 350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1200, New York, NY 10118-0110, not later than October 3, 2026. The non-confidential portions of the application are on file and may also be requested through the FDIC’s website at https://cra.fdic.gov/.

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MANA HEALTH PARTNERS MANAGEMENT, LLC Authority filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/20/26. Office location: Queens Co. LLC formed in FL on 11/17/23 . SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC 2032 Brookewood Dr, Toms River NJ 08755. FL address of LLC: 1317 Edgewater Dr 1470 Orlando FL 32804. Arts. of Org. filed with FL Secy. of State, P.O 6327 Tallahassee FL 32314. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

College Point, 11-15 130th St, #2. 3 BR, 1.5 bath, $2,800/mo. Huge apt, separate entrance, HWF throughout, master BR has 1/2 bath. Available NOW. Call Jessie Lookfong, 631-408-8918, Capri Jet Realty

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EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212-941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718722-3131. The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.

Apts. For Rent

I, Jagmohan Singh S/o

Real Estate

Legal Notices

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, September 3, 2026 Page 30

Legal Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS SUCCESSOR TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET MORTGAGE PRODUCTS, INC., MORTGAGE ASSETBACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-RS3, -against- JOAN D. MINTO SEOW, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on August 20, 2025, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS SUCCESSOR TO JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET MORTGAGE PRODUCTS, INC., MORTGAGE ASSETBACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-RS3 is the Plaintiff and JOAN D. MINTO SEOW, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD, COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on October 2, 2026 at 10:00AM, premises known as 2 HOLLYWOOD COURT, FAR ROCKAWAY, NY 11691; and the following tax map identification: 15714-185. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 713471/2023. Scott H. Siller, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

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NOTICE 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

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Queens Chronicle 09-03-26