Queens Chronicle 09-11-25

Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, City Line

NYC students irked by cell phone ban

As new state rule takes effect, teens and teachers sound off on rollout

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

When students arrived for the first day of school last week, many were shocked to find out they wouldn’t be able to hang on to their electronic devices all day, despite families being given ample notice.

New York State recently banned the use of internet-enabled electronic devices in schools, including smartphones, smart watches, tablets and more. School districts were made responsible for coming up with their own policies for restricting the devices.

At Richmond Hill High School, students are given a bright orange “Safe Pouch” to store their phones. A student is to put the devices in the pouch, which is then locked. They hold onto the pouch for the duration of the school day, and at dismissal, faculty unlocks it using a magnet.

When the Chronicle visited the school at dismissal, plenty of students were glued to their devices, catching up on what was missed. Others were loudly complaining about the new rules.

About five students at the school, under conditions of anonymity, told the Chronicle the phone ban rollout has been rough.

One student, whose statement was later corroborated by a teacher, said the start of the day was delayed due to the distribution of the pouches.

“It’s hideous,” a teen who identified herself as AR said about the pouch. She and a friend, Lola, said there were issues with the lock mechanism on some of the pouches, resulting in some being cut open by faculty.

“It’d be easier for them to just collect everyone’s phone in a basket in the morning,” Lola said. “And them give them back at lunch and take them away again.”

Another student, Jay, simply said, “It’s stupid. It won’t last.”

At John Adams High School in Ozone Park, students place their devices in a school-provided ziplock bag along with their printed schedule. The bags are then kept by faculty and later distributed during a student’s last class.

One student, who declined to identify himself, told the Chronicle that the policy makes it more difficult to cut school.

“It’s not easy,” he said. “But now that they hold onto your phone, it’s harder to sneak out. You don’t want to leave it.”

But not all schools are having a rough time, according to several educators who told the Chronicle they are enjoying the new phone restrictions.

A Kew Gardens teacher, who works at a charter in Jamaica, said her school had already banned phones prior to this year, but with the financial support from the government enabling the administration to purchase magnetic lock

Gone are the days of smartphones in the classroom, as the statewide phone ban in schools began with the start of the academic year last week.

pouches, it’s been easier.

“We used to just store devices in a basket, but the pouches really make a world of a difference,” she said. “It’s seamless.”

The phone ban also seems to be going smoothly at elementary schools.

“Not everyone has a phone here,” a Woodhaven teacher told the Chronicle. “Parents usually give them to their kids for safety reasons,

so a lot of moms and dads aren’t pleased, but staff has made sure they have every phone number they could need to contact the school when they need to.”

She continued, “And the kids know they can tell a teacher they have to call mom or dad. We have their parents’ contact information, and I don’t know about my colleagues, but I’m not going to deny anyone in my class a call home if it’s an emergency.”

A Bayside resident and teacher at a Manhattan high school, Winnie H., said she expects the students’ frustration to fade over time.

“You have these kids who have been glued to their phones for years,” she said. “And then, during Covid, these children were reliant on their devices. But when I was in high school about 15 years ago, most of us didn’t have smartphones. And if we did, we kept them away without issue. I have a feeling they’ll get used to it, too.”

She said she had an incident in her classroom in 2019 when a student with a stutter gave a history presentation. A classmate had secretly recorded and uploaded the speech to Snapchat, a photo and video sharing application that keeps posts up for 24 hours before they disappear.

“The footage is gone, but that student was so hurt when she found out,” Winnie said. “A phone ban just makes it so these sorts of things can’t happen.” Q

CONZA | MCNAMARA

PHOTOBYYANKRUKOV/FILE

Division tasked with quality of life concerns explains its processes 102’s Q-team makes their introduction

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Officers of the NYPD 102nd Precinct’s new Quality of Life team, or Q-team, visited Community Board 9 Tuesday evening at Borough Hall to introduce themselves and explain their new roles.

The Q-teams, implemented citywide this summer, are responsible for addressing quality-of-life concerns in their respective precincts. The officers in the division are trained to address nonemergency concerns, such as derelict vehicles and outdoor drug use.

Capt. Ehtasham Khan, the executive officer of the 102, said the team will ensure 311 calls are “answered in a timely fashion.”

Sgt. Stacy Zaun-Alequin leads the Q-team’s night shift.

“You guys are our eyes and ears,” Zaun-Alequin told the board. “We don’t see everything, we don’t hear everything. So we need your help to solve community problems.”

She urged anyone with qualityof-life issues to call the precinct and put in a 311 complaint.

“We have to know where the people are,” Zaun-Alequin said, adding that police receive “a ton” of noise complaints. “Keep putting those in. If we see a pattern where

it’s the same house, same complaint weekend after weekend, then we will address it in a different way.”

The group has been focused on derelict vehicles, she said, and has a heavy duty truck operation scheduled for next week.

“If you guys know of any locations, please send them to us,”

Zaun-Alequin said, noting that the tow pounds have limits. “We might go and the tow yard says, ‘No, we don’t have room for this big of a truck.’”

She said the team documents all vehicles towed and uses Word documents or Excel spreadsheets to keep track of vehicles that still

106 Pct. to get new commanding officer

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The NYPD’s 106th Precinct will soon get a new commanding officer, as Deputy Inspector Berkley VanTull moves on to a new assignment.

VanTull, who joined the 106 in late 2023, shared the news with Community Board 10 during its meeting last Thursday at the Old Mill Yacht Club in Howard Beach.

“This will be my last meeting with the community board as your commanding officer of the 106th Precinct,” VanTull said, adding that it was a “complete honor” to serve the area.

“We faced many, many challenges,” VanTull said. “We celebrated many accomplishments, and I think we built a lot of great partnerships and relation-

ships that has made us all a better and stronger community here in the 106th Precinct.”

He said he was being reassigned to a precinct in Queens Patrol Borough North. A replacement had not yet been named as of publication time Wednesday.

On the latest in crime at the 106, VanTull said airbag theft is still an issue, specifically for Hondas.

“If you own one of those vehicles — it could be a CR-V, Accord, Civic, any of those vehicles — I would definitely try to add any kind of extra security features,” he said, and suggested purchasing a steering wheel lock.

VanTull said jewelry swap patterns are also more common, wherein someone will approach a victim, engage in

need to be towed.

Board members texted questions to the group’s chair, Sherry Algredo, to be asked to the officers. She also encouraged people to attend the precinct’s community council meetings, typically held at 7:30 p.m. at 110-08 Jamaica Ave. on the first Tuesday of each month, for

conversation or offer a prayer or jewelry as a form of distraction, all while trying to steal an item.

“They work in groups, and while you’re talking to one person, another person’s kind of in your pocket, or taking something off your hands,” he said. “So just be careful with that.” Q

more opportunities to directly speak to the police about issues.

Addressing concerns about people smoking cannabis in area parks, Det. Mandeep Cheema told the group that he and a partner are at Smokey Park, also known as Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park, in South Richmond Hill, nightly.

“If we catch you smoking in the park, we’ll address it,” Cheema said, adding that observed offenders will receive a summons.

Asked what the protocol is for someone under 18 being caught smoking, he said it will be addressed.

“We’ll put in a call with the youth officers as well, say, ‘This guy we see in the park all the time, he’s becoming a problem. Go visit his parents, find out what’s going on,’” Cheema explained.

Posed a question about excessively loud music, Zaun-Alequin said the team is trying to work with the community.

“We’re not trying to just go to enforcement right away,” she said. “So we go, we tell them to turn it down. If we have to respond more than twice, then it’s a summons and there is no talking. But again, we’re not trying to hit everybody over the head right away.” Q

HB man allegedly burglarizes St. Helen

A man was arrested twice last week following a burglary at St. Helen Roman Catholic Church, at 157-10 83 St. in Howard Beach, within the confines of the NYPD’s 106th Precinct.

According to police, on Sept. 3, a 61-year-old woman reported to police that she witnessed an unknown male enter the back room of the church without permission or authority. She discovered he stole four phone chargers.

Witnesses said the ensuing investigation involved the use of drones searching for the man, who was also said to be spending time in the off-limits area of Spring Creek Park, though the NYPD did not confirm that.

Jofferson Eugenio, 22, of First Street in Hamilton Beach, was arrested and charged with burglary, police said.

Days later, on Sept. 6, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Eugenio is alleged to have rang the doorbell of the church. He was later arrested again and charged with first degree criminal contempt, according to the NYPD. The church was granted an order of protection against him. Q — Kristen Guglielmo

Deputy Inspector Berkley VanTull, the commanding officer of the NYPD’s 106th Precinct, is moving on, he announced at Community Board 10’s meeting last week.

Capt. Ehtasham Khan, the executive officer of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct, introduced officers from the Quality of Life team at Community Board 9’s meeting Tuesday evening at Queens Borough Hall. PHOTOBYKRISTENGUGLIELMO

Mayor calls Cuomo a ‘liar and a snake’ at Gracie Mansion press conference Adams, amid rumors, remains in the race

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Following escalating rumors that the White House may offer him a job in exchange for ending his reelection campaign, Mayor Adams confirmed that he is, for now, still in the race.

“Serving New Yorkers as their mayor is the only job I’ve ever wanted. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made lowering crime, improving schools, building housing, and cutting costs for working families — and I remain the best person to lead this city forward,” Adams, who is running as an independent, said in a statement last Friday morning. “While I will always listen if called to serve our country, no formal offers have been made. I am still running for reelection, and my full focus is on the safety and quality of life of every New Yorker.”

coalesce support behind former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who lost to Mamdani in the primary and is running as an independent.

On Sept. 3, multiple reports emerged that the White House was considering offering positions to both Adams and Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa, which would lead to their withdrawal from the race.

President Trump has outwardly criticized and condemned the leading mayoral candidate, Democratic nominee and Queens Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), and for weeks, there has been discussion in various reports about the president considering getting actively involved in the race in an effort to thwart him and

But last Friday morning, the New York Times reported that close advisors of Trump are considering “crafting a plan” for the president to nominate Adams to be ambassador to Saudi Arabia to end his campaign.

At a press conference last Friday afternoon at Gracie Mansion, Adams said, “I want to be clear with you: Andrew Cuomo is a snake and a liar. I’m in this race and I’m the only one that can beat Mamdani.”

He went on to claim several successes in governing the city.

As the rumors of the White House’s potential involvement began to swirl last Wednesday, Mamdani addressed the news at a press conference.

“Today we have learned what New Yorkers long suspected, Andrew Cuomo is Don-

make that decision in November. Not the White House in Washington, D.C.” Sliwa, on X shortly after Mamdani’s remarks, said he was not contacted by the White House and is not interested in a position there.

“The ONLY job I’m interested in is being the next Mayor of NYC,” Sliwa wrote. “This is a distraction from the issues forcing New Yorkers to flee everyday. Absolute misinformation.”

In other election news, a survey of 1,284 likely voters released Sept. 9 by The New York Times and Siena University showed Mamdani with a large lead, with 46 percent of respondents supporting him. Cuomo was second at 24 percent, Sliwa at 15 percent and Adams at 9 percent.

Of the respondents from Queens, 38 percent said they would vote for Mamdani, 24 percent for Sliwa, 27 percent for Cuomo and 7 percent for Adams.

ald Trump’s choice to be the next mayor of this city,” he said. “This [news] is an affront to our democracy, an affront to what makes so many of us proud to be Americans — that we choose our own leaders. ... We know that it is New Yorkers that we will turn to to

Cuomo’s lead increases without Sliwa and Adams in the polling — in a twoman race, 48 percent of the respondents would vote for Mamdani, and 44 percent for Cuomo.

If the race were just between Mamdani and Adams, 55 percent of likely voters would opt for Mamdani, per the poll, and 36 percent for Adams. Q

Facing rumors the White House may offer a position to Mayor Adams to get him to end his reelection campaign, the mayor last Friday confirmed he will remain in the race. NYCSCHOOLSPHOTO/FLICKR

Ballot questions OK’d amid call to nix them

Pols claim they violate state law; CRC cites legal duty to put them forward

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The city Board of Elections on Tuesday voted unanimously to transmit the ballot questions put forth by Mayor Adams’ Charter Revision Commission, amid calls from some lawmakers to reject them.

“Today, the Board of Elections upheld their role in the democratic process and confirmed that five potential reforms to the New York City Charter will appear on the ballot this fall,” CRC Chair Richard Buery said in a statement Tuesday. “We look forward to a robust public education campaign over the next two months to ensure voters know about these proposals and their potential impact on the city’s housing and elections.”

City Council leaders in an Aug. 27 letter had urged the BOE to nix three land userelated ballot propositions, citing “legal deficiencies” in the language that they say conceals the proposals’ effects from voters in violation of state law.

“In particular, the three questions fail to inform voters that the ballot proposals will completely eliminate the City Council’s existing authority on behalf of the public to approve or modify a wide range of land use proposals — including many projects made up almost entirely of luxury housing,” wrote the lawmakers, including Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) and Minority Leader Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) in Queens.

ic,” Council spokesperson Julia Agos said in a statement Tuesday. “Mayor Adams’ Commission could have offered honestly worded ballot proposals to give voters the choice to make informed decisions, but it chose not to and instead is attempting to trick voters with buzzwords and slogans.”

The CRC on Sept. 4 sent its own letter to the BOE in response to the Council members’ allegations. Signed by Executive Director Alec Schierenbeck, it asserts not only that the questions’ verbiage explains their effects in compliance with the law, but also that the BOE’s powers are strictly ministerial. It is up to the courts to review the language of proposals, the letter states.

“I reject the notion that you’re merely ministerial.”

—

Jason Otaño, general counsel to NYC Council, on the city Board of Elections

The letter claims that the wording of Questions 2 and 3 fails to disclose that they would shift voting power “entirely to unelected appointees primarily made by the mayor.” T he lawmakers also said Question 4 would “override the Council’s land use authority” by giving final veto power to the mayor and relevant borough president.

“Trying to deceive voters into giving away their power in a democracy through misleading ballot proposals that hide their true impact is fundamentally undemocrat-

According to the propositions as written for the ballot, Question 2 seeks to “fast track publicly financed affordable housing” and applications delivering affordable housing in the community districts that produce the least of it, “significantly reducing review time.” It says the amendment would maintain community board review. A “yes” vote “fast tracks applications at the Board of Standards and Appeals or City Planning Commission,” while a “no” is to leave affordable housing subject to longer review and a final decision by the City Council.

Question 3 is to “simplify” the review process for “modest amounts of additional housing and minor infrastructure projects,” maintaining community board review and giving the final decision to the City Planning Commission. A vote in favor is one to simplify review for such “limited land-use changes,” and a “no” vote is to leave those changes subject to longer review and the Council’s final decision.

According to the CRC’s final report approved in July, community boards’ and borough presidents’ review periods would be consolidated into one 60-day window under the expedited procedure. The CPC would then have 30 days to hold a public

The city Board of Elections on Tuesday placed all proposals from Mayor Adams’ Charter Revision Commission on the ballot amid calls from City Council leaders, including Speaker Adrienne Adams, to reject some of them. PHOTOSBYMICHAELAPPLETON/NYCMAYOR’SOFFICE,LEFT,ANDJOHNMCCARTEN/NYCCOUNCIL/FILE

hearing and vote, and the mayor and City Council would not have review periods.

Question 4 aims to establish an Affordable Housing Appeals Board with the Council speaker, applicable borough president and mayor that would “review Council actions that reject or change applications creating affordable housing.”

A “yes” vote is to create that board “to reflect Council, borough and citywide perspectives” — the CRC’s final report cites complaints that the present Uniform Land Use Review Procedure lends too much weight to local views — and a “no” vote is to leave affordable housing subject to the mayor’s veto and Council’s final say.

With a majority vote, the Appeals Board could reverse the Council’s decisions on certain land use matters, the CRC’s final report states.

Jason Otaño, the Council’s general counsel, had reiterated lawmakers’ demands before the BOE at a Sept. 2 meeting. BOE President Frederic Umane asked Otaño if he believes the board has an obligation to review certified ballot questions.

“I can’t remember a time when we’ve actu-

ally rejected something that either the City Clerk, which is [appointed by] the Council, or I guess, a charter revision commission has sent to us,” Umane said. “So if we have the power, as far as I know, we’ve never used it.”

Otaño replied that the board is not in a position to analyze every proposition, but it should examine the language when lawmakers raise “viable questions” as to whether it is clear to voters that an arm of city government is being “curtailed.”

“Isn’t this better suited for the courts rather than our board as a ‘mere ministerial agency?’” Umane asked.

“I reject the notion that you’re merely ministerial,” Otaño replied. “If we do take this to court at the end of the day, we would’ve wanted to exhaust every remedy prior to doing so.”

BOE Commissioner Frank Seddio voiced his own concerns about the questions’ “ambiguity” last week, stating that community board recommendations on land use actions would be “meaningless” if Council members had no say. Ahead of Tuesday’s vote, several speakers, Schierenbeck among them, spoke in favor of putting the proposals on the ballot. Q

No ICE office on Rikers, judge says

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The city’s executive order to let U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement reopen an office on Rikers Island is illegal, state Supreme Court Justice Mary Rosado ruled Monday.

The decision comes after the City Council in April filed a lawsuit challenging the order, issued by First Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro. Lawmakers alleged that it was tainted by a conflict of interest, namely the dismissal of Mayor Adams’ criminal case in exchange for an ICE office on Rikers, but

City Hall says the mayor responded to the appearance of a conflict by delegating to Mastro all powers related to the matter.

“We’re pleased that the court recognized Mayor Adams and Randy Mastro’s attempt to do Trump’s bidding and betray their obligation to New Yorkers as unlawful,” Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) said in a joint statement with other lawmakers. “This decision protects the civil rights of all New Yorkers from being violated and makes our city safer.” Rosado had previously issued a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunc-

tion blocking the move.

She wrote that the timeline of public remarks and Adams’ prosecution “so clearly demonstrate an impermissible appearance of a conflict of interest.” Her ruling recalls that the federal charges against Adams were dropped the same day he discussed bringing ICE back to Rikers in a television appearance with President Trump’s border czar, Tom Homan.

Rosado said also that it is “farcical” to argue that the appearance of a conflict is cleansed by delegating to Mastro, who was appointed by and reports to the mayor.

Mastro in a statement disagreed with the judge’s decision and expressed confidence in a victory on appeal.

“Let’s be clear: at no point does the judge dispute that the substance of our executive order fully complies with local law — that’s because it does,” he said, maintaining that there is no conflict of interest at play and emphasizing the order’s objective of prosecuting violent transnational gangs. The feds can operate on land under the Department of Correction’s jurisdiction for purposes unrelated to civil immigration enforcement. Q

EDITORIAL AGEP

A welcome smartphone ban

Teenagers are griping! Can you believe it?

But they’ll come around; soon they’ll get used to the bell-to-bell smartphone ban in schools that New York State finally implemented with the start of the new academic year.

New York was not at the forefront here. Thirteen states beat us to the punch, mostly in the South and Midwest, while several others have some kind of guidance or restriction. So do a numb er of other countries or regions within them; France and China have had bans for years.

It’s true that some kids are defying the ban by surrendering old phones or burner phones at the beginning of the school day, keeping the ones they actually use. Clever, but they’ll be found out, and we hope schools crack down.

There are those who like the newfound freedom. Students who want to learn will get to focus on lessons. And when they do have downtime, they can rediscover the joys and benefits of daydreaming — ask inventors, artists or writers when they get their ideas and the answer likely will be

when daydreaming. Also, kids will get to actually talk to each other again during lunch and other free time. It’s extremely important that they regain the verbal and communication skills so many lost due to the Covid pandemic and phone use.

It’s also vital that cyberbullying be reduced, and kids’ not being able to post TikToks of whatever someone was just seen doing will help.

As for parents needing to reach their kids in an emergency, they can do it the same way they did for about 100 years — calling the school.

Look, the kids are not all right. New national test results were just released, and high school seniors got the worst scores on reading that they’ve received since 1992. That’s 33 years ago! Math scores were the lowest since 2005.

As The New York Times put it, these students may not be able to “determine the purpose of a political speech” or be able to use percentages “to solve real-world problems.”

That in itself is a major real-world problem. The new smartphone ban is one step toward fixing it.

NYers need Covid shots

You may think Covid is gone, but it’s not. In 2024, we lost 2,775 New Yorkers to deaths related to the disease, according to Dr. James McDonald, the state health commissioner.

Vaccines remain the best defense against developing a severe case of Covid or requiring hospitalization. It is vital that anyone who wants a shot can get it, especially seniors. It is not something to be left to the whims of a strange man with no medical training and a lot of bizarre beliefs, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the secretary of health and human services. Because of Kennedy’s vaccine skepticism and reckless actions, the necessary federal guidance on Covid shots has not been issued,

endangering the ability of people to get them. We are thankful that in response, New York State is taking action. Gov. Hochul last Friday signed an executive order declaring an emergency and expanding who can prescribe and administer Covid vaccines. Just yesterday, the state issued another welcome directive encouraging insurance companies to cover all vaccines that federal guidance recommended up to that point. And the governor is working with other states in the region to develop evidence-based recommendations on vaccination, disease tracking and emergency preparedness.

We can’t go back to the days of letting preventable diseases spread because of one skeptic’s beliefs.

MARK WEIDLER

President & Publisher

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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

CB13 meets illegally

Dear Editor:

(An open letter to Community Board 13’s district manager, the Queens Borough President’s Office and others)

This evening [Sept. 3] I formally requested from Chair Michael O’Keefe that in accordance with the New York State Open Meetings Law that tonight’s Public Safety Committee meeting be recorded and that the recording be posted on our website and on our social media pages.

Despite the fact that numerous residents in the 116th Precinct are currently attending a meeting [at] the Precinct, District Manager Mark McMillan refused my request, saying it is not going to happen, and moved on.

I attempted to resolve issues during the summer. Neither the Board Chair nor the District Manager responded to my repeated requests to try to comply with NYS and NYC law and our Bylaws so that we can better serve our community. I have never received the courtesy of a response from either.

I am requesting corrective action from the Office of the Queens Borough President regarding the continuing noncompliance by Queens Community Board 13 with the New York State Open Meetings Law.

David S. Pecoraro Member, Community Board 13 CB 13 Public Safety Committee Rosedale

Bus line redesign woes

Dear Editor:

I was startled to read in “Full Speed Ahead on Bus Route Design” (Sept. 4) about the 4,000 “passenger ambassadors” assigned to help Queens commuters navigate the new bus routes. I’ve seen no sign of them along Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills and Rego Park.

I use the Q60 bus to travel from Rego Park to Manhattan, and before the rescheduling began a number of bus drivers couldn’t tell me where the Q60’s last and first stops in Manhattan would eventually be. Does this mean that the old first-and-last Manhattan stop (Second Avenue and 60th Street) will no longer serve as the gateway to Queens? I wish I knew.

A final point: I used to board the Q60 bus on Queens Boulevard at the vest pocket park near 67th Road. It is filled with benches. The benches are a hangout, a socializing spot for lots of elderly people.

Now there’s a sign there saying that buses no longer pick up passengers at that stop, as of Aug. 31. On Sept. 4, I saw two buses allow commuters to enter there, but the folks who gather there

will, eventually, have to go elsewhere — and farther — if they wish to use the Q60. What genius came up with this brainstorm?

It’s hard to believe that the Q60 could be more exasperating than it’s long been, but I fear that’s now a good possibility.

Howard Schneider Rego Park

MTA: not going our way

Dear Editor:

In your article “Full speed ahead on MTA bus route redesign,” the MTA continues to mislead and distort. First, NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow says he can’t wait for it to take effect because it is “a world-class system.” Obviously, it is not, since now the MTA claims it needs six months to evaluate and make changes. Eleven new local routes do not necessarily indicate increased passenger service, which can only be determined by reviewing the before and after revenue hours and mileage, which the MTA refuses to release after repeated Freedom of Information Law requests.

Roughly half the amount the agency claims

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

to have invested in the new system is being reimbursed by the city, so it is really spending an extra $18 million per year, not an extra $35 million, and we do not know if this is for added revenue or nonrevenue service.

In six months, the MTA will return perhaps 50 bus stops, with over 1,700 still being eliminated. There will be a few route modifications and the MTA will declare success by stating that buses are operating 10 percent faster or so (neglecting to mention it is less than 1 mph faster), even if most trips are taking longer and fares are increased for those needing an additional transfer after the second bus transfer experiment ends.

The MTA claims to be getting positive feedback, so why are 90 percent of the comments on social media negative, claiming longer trip times, less frequent service and increased bus bunching? A successful redesign helps many more than it hurts. All indications are to the contrary.

Allan Rosen Brooklyn

The writer is a former director of MTA New York City Transit Bus Planning.

Shame at Ground Zero

Dear Editor:

Today, Sept. 11, we gather at Ground Zero to remember all the precious lives lost on that day in 2001.

But recently we learned that the national 9/11 Memorial & Museum, built to honor the almost 3,000 lives lost, managed to lose almost $20 million last year, despite charging higher admission and tour fees.

Former Mayor Mike Bloomberg is the board chairman and is very generous toward the museum’s support, but he and the trustees have been negligent in not reining in the bloated salaries of the top brass in charge.

Salaries range from the president and CEO’s jaw-dropping $856,216 to the CFO’s $432,958, not to mention the three other officers in between.

Needless to say, the family members involved are not just appalled but are just plain angry that their loved ones, gone forever, are so disrespected, with their memories used as just another way to make a buck, and a good one at that. Shame!

Thomas and Constance Dowd

Oakland Gardens

Free stuff and low taxes

Dear Editor:

Re “Across Queens, neighbors are divided,” Sept. 4, multiple editions:

The piece in the Chronicle surveying voter opinions around Queens shows how middleclass values of modesty and thrift long distinctive to the area endure. To a fault. The mother of four and Ridgewood resident is true to type with her skepticism toward promises to make bus fares free. “I don’t understand how he thinks he is going to make free public transit. How is that possible?” she says of scary socialist Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani.

How is giving $5 million Central Park condos $30,000 annual property tax discounts possible? You won’t get that deal from NYC Department of Finance on a house in, say, For-

est Hills Gardens, but you can at 923 Fifth Ave. It’s listed by Sotheby’s as “one of the few whiteglove condominiums on Fifth Avenue, in the heart of the prestigious Upper East Side ... highservice UES location, and for investors, an enduring and strategic luxury asset.” Annual tax amount: $19,188. A lot left over for the Fifth Avenue bus fare.

This mayoral campaign has seen a lot of back and forth around free transit enticements and rent-stabilized apartment envy. A lot of OK DSA stuff but no rabble-rousing, borderline Marxist questioning of effective tax subsidies for places like 923 Fifth Ave. And when the highest court in the state rules otherwise, they just ignore it. How is that possible?

Edwin Eppich

Glendale

Flee, flee, let them flee

Dear Editor:

Some politicians are shamefully trying to scare New York City voters by stating that there will be a mass exodus of those at the top if any tax increase or additional business expense is imposed on them. Well, if some at the top choose to go, they cannot take with them NYC’s infrastructure and business advantages, such as its major seaport, transportation and airport systems; Wall Street; top-notch sports, hospitality and entertainment venues; its status and prestige as a major international city; and its abundant opportunities in a culturally diverse population of nine million.

If some at the top choose to go, they will be replaced very quickly by others who understand the opportunities and advantages of doing business in NYC. Those who flee to other locales might not fit in culturally or have the political influence they once had in NYC. Also, they might find that the additional costs imposed on them by NYC will be far less costly and less stressful than reestablishing a successful business in a new environment.

Politicians should focus on issues and not on scary tactics.

Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens

This-and-that candidates

Dear Editor:

Appreciation is warranted to this paper for outlining the specific topics each mayoral candidate has proposed during the campaign (“Mayoral candidates’ visions for the city,” Sept. 4).

It’s important to understand the three major newspapers, The New York Times, Daily News and New York Post, take supporting their choice for mayor as a way of making us feel there’s only one party in a blue state. While this kind of alliance holds true to past affiliations, viewing how any candidate wishes to present his plans for the betterment of NYC residents comes with a lot of challenges.

The very last thing we as residents need is a this-and-that candidate: the kind who has ideas about doing this without knowing about that. This is in many ways a way out of being thought of as a failure.

The current candidates all have different approaches to their ideas and how to implement continued on next page

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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

continued from previous page

them. For many people, taking a stance on one candidate comes down to keeping in mind what benefits everyone, what constitutes a positive outcome for everyone. We have to make our decision based on that.

Overall, the one thing on the minds of all New Yorkers is the lack of public safety and the need to keep our children safe. All other issues cater to a broader sense of individual alliances in certain communities. The best candidate has to make a point of being clear about the whole citywide spectrum.

Voters need to be cognizant of the bigger picture. Otherwise we face a problem of political instability and stagnation. Party allegiance no longer plays a role in selecting the best candidate.

Craig Schwab Glendale

Queens takes the Met

Dear Editor:

I was there! I literally ran into Queens Borough President Donovan Richards on Wednesday, Sept. 3, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where I’m a volunteer docent.

His office, along with those of state Sens. Leroy Comrie and Mike Gianaris, Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer Amato and Ron Kim, and Councilmember Shekar Krishnan, partnered with the Met’s Community Wednesdays program. Free transportation departed from Borough Hall. He had staff with him and kids and constituents. There were special things to do and special things to see.

We crossed paths as they entered the “Superfine” exhibition but I reconnected with members of the group later when I was doing chats in the newly re-opened Rockefeller Wing, which displays pieces from Africa, Oceania and the ancient Americas.

Richards billed the activity as an exclusive museum tour for a group of Queens kids, families and seniors. It was a terrific serendipitous event!

Debra Michlewitz Bayside

Pass MCED Act, save lives

Dear Editor:

Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in New York, and no one feels that burden more deeply than seniors like me. As a cancer survivor and Medicare recipient, I had my life saved by preventive screening. All seniors need access to multi-cancer early detection tests to catch it before it’s too late.

Each year, roughly 1 million seniors are diagnosed with cancer, many at a late stage when outcomes are worse and costs are higher. While routine screening recommendations exist for only five types of cancer, most cancer deaths result from cancers that go undetected until it’s too late. MCED tests, simple blood tests that can identify dozens of cancers, could change that story for so many.

The bipartisan Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection

Screening Coverage Act (HR 842/S. 339) would allow Medicare to cover MCED tests. Early detection reduces costs, improves treatment outcomes and gives families more time together. It’s a commonsense solution that should transcend politics.

New York’s leaders in Congress have historically supported this legislation. I want to thank Rep. Grace Meng for co-sponsoring this bill, and I’m proud to live in a district where my congresswoman stands up for vulnerable seniors. Now, we are just a few cosponsors away from full support across the New York delegation.

Expanding access to MCED is a chance to save lives. Pass the Nancy Gardner Sewell Medicare Multi-Cancer Early Detection Screening Coverage Act!

Mario Henry Flushing

VA union cuts are cruel

Dear Editor:

In recent weeks the White House has terminated the union contracts of nine federal agencies, affecting about 450,000 people, including at Veterans Affairs. Thank you for your service.

I don’t care what party you belong to, but especially if you are a patriotic, blue-collar union member who loves our vets, and the sacrifices of their families, please explain to me how you can support such mean-spirited cruelty. Please, explain it to me. Then, the next time you go to a short-staffed VA facility, tell me in your heart, is what you voted for? If so shame on you.

Stew Frimer Forest Hills

Nazism is here

Dear Editor:

Recently and inarguably upon Pentagon planning under Herr Pete Hegseth, President Trump is federalizing thousands of armed state National Guards and deploying U.S. Marines in American cities (Los Angeles, DC) under the pretext of a national emergency in a gross overreach of his Constitutional powers and laws, the latter of which specify rebellion or threat of rebellion as justifiable circumstances. His intent is to invoke fear and submission to his ongoing onslaught of detrimental policies to the public at large and immigrants in particular.

In 1936, Hitler’s Third Reich nationalized all regional German police under Heinrich Himmler, the head of the notorious SSGestapo. In fact, their modus operandi of sowing terror through arbitrary arrests, no legal due process, detention and deportation are the same as Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Next stop shall be military troops in Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Oakland, et al.

It is imperative that Trump must go or we all shall die in one way or another. Trump is thoroughly the resurrection of the Third Reich. Sic semper tyrannis. Joseph N. Manago Briarwood

Hochul signs EO to expand vax access

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Amid uncertainty about the future of Covid vaccine guidance from the federal government, Gov. Hochul last Friday signed an executive order to expand its access.

Most pharmacies in the state rely on “standing orders” — non-patient-specific prescriptions that give them authority to administer vaccines to broad groups of people, based on recommendations from the federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices.

The ACIP, under the leadership of U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has not issued updated guidance for the 2025-26 Covid vaccine and is not scheduled to meet until Sept. 18, Hochul’s office said.

According to recent reports, many pharmacies in the state, including CVS and Walgreens, are only administering Covid-19 vaccines with a prescription from a doctor in the absence of federal guidance. Children ages 3 to 17, pregnant people and adults under 65 without underlying conditions are also facing difficulties obtaining a vaccine due to new FDA guidelines.

Hochul’s executive order declares a 30-day statewide emergency, expanding who can prescribe and administer Covid vaccines. It allows physicians and nurse practitioners to issue patient-specific and non-patient-specific orders to pharmacists for patients as young as three, expands pharmacists’ authority to administer vaccines to children under 18 and permits pharmacists to prescribe Covid vaccines.

Additionally, state Health Commissioner James McDonald, according to Hochul’s office, will issue a standing order for the Covid vaccine to ensure that pharmacists statewide can provide timely and convenient access.

“I promised New Yorkers that their family would be my fight,” Hochul said in a statement. “In the absence of federal leadership, we must do everything we can to ensure that New Yorkers have access to the vaccines and preventative healthcare they have come to rely on. ... We are sending a clear message that when Washington Republicans play politics with public health, New Yorkers can still get the care they need, close to home, from trusted providers in their own communities.” Q

New ONCA board sworn in

The new leadership board of the Our Neighbors Civic Association of Ozone Park was sworn in by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. last Wednesday, Sept. 3, during the group’s first meeting of the season at the Ozone Park Jewish Center, located at 107-01 Cross Bay Blvd.

The new board is President Jeremy Bucaria, in vest, Vice President Jacob Zuniga, Treasurer Deanna Blandino-Ruiz, General Secretary Daniel Coffaro Hill, Sergeant-atArms John Pikul and Transportation Chairperson Carl Perresa. Bucaria succeeds Joe Caruana, the group’s outgoing president.

Others in attendance included Assembly-

member Jenifer Rajkumar, who presented the leadership with awards, Community Board 10 Chair Betty Braton, officers from the NYPD and representatives of Councilmember Joann Ariola, Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato and District Attorney Melinda Katz.

Bucaria, in a video of the meeting posted to the civic’s Facebook page, said, “Ozone Park deserves a bright future where quality of life is valued, where our voices are heard and where families feel supported and safe.”

The group’s next meeting is Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ozone Park Jewish Center. All are welcome. — Kristen Guglielmo

Anderson shares thoughts on gov’t

Trump’s SNAP cuts, AM Mamdani’s campaign and Hochul’s

by Naeisha Rose Editor

President Trump, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), Gov. Hochul and the quality-of-life concerns in his district were just a few of the topics Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson (D-South Ozone Park) discussed in an interview with the Queens Chronicle last Thursday.

When asked about the state’s fiscal plan, Anderson said the Trump administration has blown a hole in the Empire State’s budget.

“We are going to do everything that we can going into 2026 to make sure that Queens residents don’t go hungry,” said Anderson in relation to federal cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. Farmers markets and senior nutrition programs have been impacted by the cuts. “Those are programs that received some federal subsidy. If those subsidies are cut, they are going to hurt our farmers. Yes, I’m a New York City legislator, but I want to know where our food is coming from.”

the interview

It’s about allowing people get access to food in a dignified way, said Anderson, chair of the Task Force on Food, Farm & Nutrition Policy.

“Roughly $2 billion in additional costs would be pushed onto the states,” Anderson estimates for the SNAP program. “Plus an additional $400 million in administrative costs ... to meet all of the work requirements that are now in place.”

Anderson says that it’s not just people who are able-bodied and not working who are impacted by Trump’s work requirement for SNAP but people who are underemployed and college students, too.

“In addition to my full-time credits, I have to get a job,” said Anderson, as an example.

organized together and I think I’ve been able to share some of my on-the-ground knowledge and input with Assemblymember Mamdani,” said Anderson. “It is my hope that he wins the general election in November. I strongly believe that he would surround himself with knowledgeable people who know how to make city agencies work, that know how to meet the needs of New Yorkers who are leaving in droves, New Yorkers who feel they are not a part of the New York fabric. They feel that they are getting priced out.”

Anderson said Mamdani has plans to streamline applications for entrepreneurs, reducing taxes and fees for businesses.

“I think that we need more support ...”

To protect the program from skimming, Anderson said that state officials have been pushing Gov. Hochul to put chips on SNAP cards.

— Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson, on emergency response systems in the Rockaways

“We didn’t get it, which is very frustrating with the executive chamber on that,” said Anderson, a member of the Committee on Banks. “We are going to keep pushing.”

Earlier this year the Chronicle reported that New York is the top state for electronic benefit transfer theft, and criminals are using a skimmer, a device placed in checkout portals, which allows them access to information on a victim’s card.

“Anderson estimates it could cost up to $40 million to get SNAP cards chipped.

When it comes to the mayoral Democratic nominee, Mamdani, Anderson said he endorsed his chamber seatmate.

“We came in together, we sat together, we

“He has to appeal to all New Yorkers,” said Anderson. “He has to appeal to Black New Yorkers, he has to appeal to Jewish New Yorkers, he has to appeal to HispanicAmerican New Yorkers, he has to appeal to Italian New Yorkers and those who have felt they have been left behind and forgotten. That is why I thought it was important when he went to Far Rockaway and Staten Island.”

Anderson believes that it is shortsighted for Hochul to push for the Interborough Express and not put the same amount of effort into the QueensLink, a proposal that would reestablish and activate an old Rockaway Beach rail line that could connect to Queens Center mall and make transfers to the A, J, Z, E, F, R and 7 trains and more.

The IBX is a rapid transit project to be built along an existing Bay Ridge rail line to Jackson Heights.

“I think that we can do both,” said the assemblyman. “I commend her for getting the IBX to the finish line, but what about us here in Queens, my pocket of Queens?”

Anderson, who also represents much of the Rockaways, says the region has not only the longest commute times in the city or state, but in the nation.

“I say that we are worth that investment,” said Anderson, who has been advocating for

transit plans

the QueensLink for a decade.

Between Resorts World possibly getting one of the three casino licenses up for grabs, foot traffic on Queens’ beaches expanding and the increasing population of the borough, the transportation system needs to catch up and meet the needs, said Anderson.

“Every year we don’t make the investment the cost goes up,” he said. “Right now the cost is estimated at $5 billion. Next year it is going to be $6 billion ...Then it is going to be further and further out of reach.”

With hurricane season in our midst, Anderson said Far Rockaway could use a community emergency response team.

“I think that we need more support to make sure that every resident of New York City, particular in the Rockaways, have a go bag,” said Anderson. “One of the things that community members have been advocating for a while is a physical alert system ... so that people can hear it similar to what is in New Orleans ... a loud megaphone system.”

When asked what he would advise young people interested in politics, Anderson, the youngest Black assemblyman in the state, said to turn frustrations into volunteer work to improve one’s community.

“Love yourself, love your neighborhood and get to work,” he said. Q

A timeless affair in S. Jamaica

Folks enjoying their golden years will be performing in a competition at the Allen Community Older Adult Center in South Jamaica on Thursday, Sept. 25, at 10 a.m.

The Queens Talent is Timeless event, hosted by the Department of the Aging, at 16601 Linden Blvd. in South Jamaica, will see acts singing and dancing, reciting poetry and performing comedy routines and dramatic scenes, a spokeswoman from the agency said via email.

This is the third year of the competition, which is open to the public, and its goal is to highlight older adults in a way people usually don’t get to see them, so as to eliminate ageist stereotypes.

People interested in learning more about the event may call Aging Connect at (212) Aging-NYC (244-6469).

The Talent is Timeless competition will culminate with a grand finale next month at Lincoln Center. — Naeisha Rose

Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson shared his thoughts on the mayoral election, transportation projects and more with the Queens Chronicle. PHOTOBYPETERC.MASTROSIMONE

Senator says federal budget won’t help Queens, Cohen plan really will Liu talks budgets, casinos and politics

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Whether the topic is bus stops in Bay Terrace or the federal budget from inside the Beltway, State Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) is seldom at a loss for an opinion.

He expounded on those topics and more in a sitdown with the Chronicle’s editorial board on Monday morning.

Bus stops have been a popular topic of dissent since the Metropolitan Transportation Authority implemented its redesign of the borough’s bus system. Liu doesn’t feel that way.

“We’ve heard complaints from people who do have to walk another two blocks to their stop,” Liu said. “But you’re also getting faster service. Everyone wants faster buses, but they also want their stop in front of their home ... The MTA struck a balance.”

Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

“That’s always been my park,” Liu said of FMCP. “That’s where I grew up. That’s where I learned to ride a bike. If you’re in Flushing, you call it Flushing Meadows Park. If you’re in Corona you call it Corona Park. But you know what? Whatever it is, people know it’s the biggest park in New York City and it’s a treasure. But it needs the funding it deserves.” He said that especially includes rudimentary basics like longignored pavement and drainage.

“Everyone likes to give money to a museum,” he said. “Because you can’t cut a ribbon by some underground water pipes.”

the interview

Liu said there are cumulative benefits, economic and otherwise, in faster bus service: one of the reasons he not only disapproves of the coming 10-cent fare hike, but believes buses should be free. He said swiping cards at the front of a bus causes needless delays, ones that do not exist at multiple-turnstile subway entrances.

Liu said the benefits, economic, environmental and others, would be worth it, and that the projected $3 billion collected at the fare box is small within the state’s $265 billion budget.

More within his 16th District, Liu is glad to back the proposed Metropolitan Park, including a casino, being proposed by New York Mets owner Steve Cohen for the parking lot at Citi Field; and wants the city to begin committing funding to upgrade

Liu, with only a small sliver of the Metropolitan Park footprint in his district, raised many eyebrows this year when he introduced a bill in the state Senate to alienate the parkland after Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) repeatedly refused to do so.

Liu does not ignore warnings from opponents of the casino about possible negative impacts, ones he said could transpire wherever the state grants one of the three downstate gaming licenses [see separate story in some editions or at qchron.com]. But he also touted the benefits, including jobs, a 25-acre park on what has been pavement since the days of the World’s Fairs and pledges of massive infrastructure investment should the permit be granted.

The Mets-Willets Point station for the No. 7 train, paraphrasing the senator, is substandard. He said a new station would serve not only fans of Mets baseball or US Open Tennis, but the new residents and employees, and would add one more accessible station

to the MTA’s portfolio.

Liu said everyone wins with infrastructure upgrades to better connect adjacent neighborhoods to the Flushing waterfront.

That includes the possibility of a skypark over Flushing Creek, which Liu is especially looking forward to if the permit goes through and the plan proves feasible.

“And if not, we get $100 million invested in Flushing Meadows Corona Park,” Liu said — if the license is approved.

Liu is supporting Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) and his democratic socialist platform in the mayoral race.

Many critics have criticized Mamdani’s plans for things like free buses, free daycare, rent freezes and more, all to be paid for

with billions in new taxes on high-income residents, most of which would have to be approved by the state to take effect.

“He’s not the only candidate with a wish list,” Liu said. “Hiring 5,000 police officers sounds good. Doesn’t come for free.”

He said new tax rates could be applied to those who he said have benefited from Congress’ recent decision to make expiring tax cuts from President Trump’s first term permanent.

“Anyone making half a million year is going to benefit a lot,” Liu said. “What percentage of Queens residents benefit from that?”

He said no amount of preparation for the state budget due next April 1 can be sufficient for the expected impact of federal spending cuts, citing healthcare and the potential for many New Yorker to lose health insurance as a major example.

He said he has introduced a bill that would allow pharmacies in the state from CVS and Walgreens to small independent operators to continue to offer Covid vaccines without a prescription, a practice that has stopped following recent policy announced by U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert Kennedy Jr. Gov. Hochul this week issued her own executive order to permit vaccines.

On the state’s struggling and expensive green energy mandates, Liu said it is important to push through in order to avoid delays and a drop in demand for all new electrification technology.

“There is an initial investment up front,” Liu acknowledged while arguing that over time the new technology will be cleaner and less expensive. Q

‘Education is a public good’ — Sen. John Liu

Lawmaker talks phone ban, charters and the future of school governance

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

For state Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside), the chair of the Committee on NYC Education, the lesson plan is clear: Ditch the distractions, keep the caps and take a careful look at who should call the shots in city schools.

During a sitdown interview with the Chronicle on Monday, Liu said that as the school year begins, students will face a different way of life without their devices.

While reluctance from students is to be expected, he said, it will likely lessen after an adjustment period.

“In almost every school that has implemented a mobile device policy, students have loved it,” Liu asserted, adding that the new statewide ban will address bullying online, as well as social media companies economically preying on minors.

Asked about lifting the cap on charter schools, Liu said he’s against it.

“There’s no reason to lift any statutory cap on anything, charter schools or otherwise,” Liu said. “If nothing has changed except that the cap has been reached, well, that’s not a reason to lift the cap.”

He said the limit’s purpose is to strike a balance between the need to keep public schools open and funded, and giving parents a measure of choice. As more parents enroll their children in charter schools, Liu said, city public schools have difficulties staying open.

“Education in general is not a market-driven supply-and-demand situation,” Liu said. “Education is a public good. ... To some extent, we allow some experimentation, some choice and learn lessons. But you don’t throw out an entire system like the public school system.”

He added that there’s plenty of demand for traditional public schools.

“While we say that there’s a wait list for some charter schools, there are plenty of char-

ter schools with no wait lists and declining enrollment, just as there are with traditional public schools,” Liu said. “In fact, any time you open a new public school, parents tend to want to send their kid there.”

He continued, “So it’s not so much charter versus traditional public — it’s more new [school] versus a school that had been around for 7,200 years in the neighborhood.”

The leading mayoral candidate, Queens Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), whom Liu has endorsed, supports an end to mayoral control, the governance policy of NYC public schools that was established in 2002. The policy has been renewed over the years, and is set to expire next June.

“Everybody who has wanted to be mayor has talked about engaging parents and stakeholders more, and that’s precisely what Zohran has been talking about,” Liu said. “We’ll see what kind of flesh he puts on the bones if and when he wins the election in

November, at which point I will continue my discussions with him at a rapid pace.”

He said that other major education systems that adopted mayoral control have shifted away from it, citing Chicago, Boston and Atlanta.

“We’ve got to look at what 20 years of mayoral control has brought to New York City, whether it’s been an overall net positive or we should learn from the other lessons that major school systems around the country have already gone through.”

Asked if the alternative is going back to the prior governance system, a Board of Education and community school boards, Liu said, “We’re not going back.”

He said the city has 20 years of experience to look back on, as well as the lessons of others who adopted the policy.

“We don’t have to reinvent the wheel — let’s see what’s worked in New York City and what’s worked in other places,” Liu said. Q

State Sen. John Liu sat down with the Chronicle this week. PHOTOBYPETERC.MASTROSIMONE

Metropolitan Park advisory group addressed by dozens at Borough Hall No middle ground at Citi casino hearing

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Absolutely no one was on the fence at Borough Hall Tuesday night as about 200 people attended a public hearing on Metropolitan Park, the plan to bring a casino, entertainment and recreation complex to Citi Field.

New York Mets owner Steve Cohen and Hard Rock International are proposing to spend $8 billion, promising 23,000 union jobs, amenities such as infrastructure upgrades and a new Mets-Willets Point Subway station. The Mets’ lease on the parking lot extends another 80 years.

Among the 75 members of the public who spoke, supporters had better than a two-to-one advantage. Both sides had markedly different views on how a casino would impact things like nearby property values and small businesses.

A number of construction unions, which support the project, were well-represented, as were opponents such as environmental and social service organizations.

Ken Cohen, no relation to the Mets owner, a longtime civic leader and former president of the Northeast Queens NAACP chapter, made reference to his son and grandson when speaking out in favor of the project and its far-reaching potential. He pointed out that Cohen and Hard Rock are investing their own money in the project and amenities.

“This is about the future,” he said. “This is win-win-win.”

Some opponents from the region’s Asian community protested that a casino would develop and prey on problem gamblers; yet many Asian civic and business leaders said the potential for jobs and visitors would have a ripple effect, particularly by drawing visitors to small businesses.

“It’s going to be incredible,” said Robert Dorsky, a North Corona resident who owns the restaurant Kaizen in Flushing.

Tom Grech, president and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, said the permanent employment benefits will have an impact long after the construction workers have moved on.

“These are not just jobs, they are careers,” Grech said. “These will allow people to pay rent, pay mortgages, send their children to college, set up generational wealth. Transformational.”

Former City Councilmembers Danny Dromm and Costa Constantinides also spoke

up in support, calling it a giant opportunity.

Some speakers reiterated their opposition to turning over city parkland for use as a casino. And while other advocates for Flushing Meadows Corona Park spoke of potential benefits that could be derived from the complex, Jean Silva, executive director of the Flushing Meadows Corona Park Conservancy, was not one of them.

“I’m against giving away any parkland for any reason,” Silva testified.

Annie Li was among the opponents who were wary of promises of community benefits.

“How will community benefits offset a business forced to shut or a family forced to move out?” Li asked. Others said even with the extras the plan still is about a casino.

“Casinos can only make money from community losses,” one woman said.

The group of opponents was called out by the moderator for continued disrespectful behavior toward supporters..

Edie Arguea, representing his veterans group, said Cohen’s group reached out to include veterans’ organizations. He directed one remark to an opponent who accused supporters of begging developers for crumbs.

“We work hard and we don‘t beg,” Arguea said.

A second hearing will be at 10 a.m. on Sept. 16 at Borough Hall. Q

Paid for by Friends for Gregory Meeks

Ken Cohen and Jean Silva, longtime fixtures in civic affairs throughout Queens, are on diametrically opposed sides of the Metropolitan Park casino debate. PHOTOSBYMICHAELGANNON

Cops search for alleged killer

Elderly couple slain in Bellerose home; career felon sought

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The NYPD is conducting a massive manhunt for a career criminal wanted for the killing of an elderly Bellerose couple on Monday.

In a press conference, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said law enforcement is seeking the public’s help in finding Jamel McGriff, 42, of the Bronx, who is suspected in the deaths of Frank Olton, 76, and his wife, Maureen, 77, after allegedly gaining access to their home just after 10 a.m. on the pretense of seeking help to charge his cell phone.

The Oltons were found dead by firefighters who responded to a blaze at the 254th Street house at about 3:20 p.m.

The couple’s son, an FDNY EMT, had alerted the department to the fire and also arrived at the house.

The commissioner said Frank Olton was found tied to a pole in the basement with multiple stab wounds. Maureen Olton was found on the first floor badly burned.

Neighbors told media outlets the victims were longtime residents known to many in the community.

Video allegedly shows McGriff leaving the home carrying two bags at 3:08 p.m. and walking north along Little Neck Parkway toward Hillside Avenue.

“The person wanted for this crime should be considered armed and dangerous,” Tisch said in a press conference available on the NYPD’s X page.

Tisch said anyone recognizing McGriff

NYPD: Subway shooter wanted

The NYPD is seeking the above individual for allegedly shooting a gun on the A train platform at Rockaway Boulevard in South Ozone Park, within the confines of the 106th Precinct.

Police said they received a report of an unidentified individual displaying and discharging a firearm on the southbound A train platform on Thursday, Sept. 4 at approximately 11:40 p.m. The suspect then fled topside on foot to parts unknown. No injuries were reported.

The alleged shooter was last seen wear-

should not approach him and should call 911 immediately. She said other information can be passed on to Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477) or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782).

Tisch said McGriff “has a lengthy, violent criminal history,” including multiple robberies. She said he is out on parole after serving 16 years for robbery committed in 2006.

“In November 2024 he failed to register as a sex offender, which should have violated his parole,” Tisch said, adding that he also is wanted for a pair of robberies in Manhattan in July and August, respectively.

Tisch said video evidence from around Bellerose shows that McGriff approached at least one other home, asking to come in and charge his cell phone but being denied entry, before he called on the Oltons.

She said video evidence shows McGriff and Frank Olton entering the back yard, and going into the home’s rear entrance at 10:18.

Police described McGriff as black with a medium build. He was last seen wearing a black hat, black jacket, blue jeans and black sneakers.

The public can also submit tips by logging onto nypdcrimestoppers.com, or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577, or by going to @nypdtips on X.

All tips are strictly confidential. Q

Man, 32, dies in RH collision

A 32-year old e-bike rider died Aug. 25 in a collision in Richmond Hill, according to the NYPD.

Police said that, at approximately 8:25 a.m., officers responded to a motor vehicle collision in the vicinity of Lefferts Boulevard and Jamaica Avenue, within the confines of the 102nd Precinct.

Further investigation determined that a man, whom police identified only as Vikas, of 117th Street in Richmond Hill, was operating an e-bike southbound on Lefferts Boulevard when a 46-year-old male in a parked 2017 Mercedes Benz GLC opened the driver’s side door of the vehicle.

Police said Vikas collided with the open door, was thrown to the roadway and sustained a head injury. EMS responded and transported him to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased. The operator of the Mercedes Benz, whom police did not identify, remained on the scene. There were no arrests, and the investigation remains ongoing by the NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad. Q — Kristen Guglielmo

She extorted R’velt sex workers daily, DA says

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

The woman charged last November with sex trafficking and threatening violence against someone who wanted out of the prostitution business along Roosevelt Avenue was hit last Friday with a new indictment.

ing a black hooded sweatshirt, blue denim jeans, a black baseball cap worn backward, a black face covering and a cross-body camouflage bag.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit tips by logging onto nypdcrimestoppers.com, or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577, or by going to @nypdtips on X.

All tips are strictly confidential.

— Kristen Guglielmo

Valezka Echeverrias, 31, of 80th Street in Jackson Heights, has been locked up at Rikers Island for the last nine months, held on $1 million bail or $2 million bond.

Valezka Echeverrias TIKTOKSCREENSHOT/ VALEZKAECHEVERRIAS

She previously was facing 24 counts including sex trafficking, promoting prostitution, grand larceny, coercion, robbery and menacing. Now she faces 11 more along the same lines, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said Monday.

According to the new indictment, Echeverrias paid for one victim to come to New York from Mexico and live with her — while the woman was forced to have sex with men on Roosevelt and pay the defendant $800 a night. The victim allegedly

also was coerced into robbing the men to make her quota, and was hit when she did not. Another victim allegedly was forced to pay Echeverrias $100 a day to engage in prostitution along Roosevelt. She was threatened with being run over or pepper sprayed if she did not pay or if she went to the authorities, the DA alleges.

“Human trafficking is a violent, dehumanizing trade that exploits and destroys lives,” Katz said in a prepared statement, saying Echeverrias will have to answer for the charges. “The defendant is accused of terrorizing numerous victims along Roosevelt Avenue, forcing them to engage in sex acts and profiting from their misery.”

Even as Echeverrias has been held in jail, her TikToks displaying her apparent avarice, showing her strutting around Roosevelt and interacting with cops she said accused her of being “the boss of the transgenders” all remain online. Q

Jamel McGriff is wanted by police for the deaths of Frank and Maureen Olton in Bellerose on Monday. NYPDPHOTOVIAX

Howard Beach remembers

Persistent showers didn’t stop residents of Howard Beach and Lindenwood from coming out on Sunday to honor lives lost in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.

Though the main portion of the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic’s remembrance event, a walk along Cross Bay Boulevard, was canceled, dozens of residents and families met at the Memorial Plaza, at 84th Street between 157th Avenue and Shore Parkway for a ceremony that included plenty of patriotism, unity and music. Woodhaven’s American Legion Post 118 presented the colors.

The civic took to Facebook after the event to share photos and thank the community

for attending, and added, “We CANNOT forget the events of that day and we must remind our children and grandchildren of what happened. Don’t let anyone rewrite our history. Thank you to our first responders for your sacrifices every single day. We love and appreciate all of you.”

Councilmember Joann Ariola also shared photos and wrote on social media, “Today we honored and remembered in Howard Beach, all those lost and affected by the attacks on September 11th, 2001. May we Never Forget their sacrifice and how important it is to teach the children what happened on that day.” — Kristen Guglielmo

Feedback sought on RW pitch

Those with thoughts on Resorts World New York City’s full-scale casino proposal are encouraged to attend a community advisory committee meeting on Monday, Sept. 15, at 4 p.m. at Queens Borough Hall, at 120-55 Queens Blvd. in Kew Gardens.

Resorts World is seeking to expand its existing operation in South Ozone Park by obtaining one of three downstate casino licenses expected to be awarded by year’s end. The Resorts World CAC, chaired by Assemblymember Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach), will make a recommendation to the NYS Gaming Commis-

Public Hearing

The Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority (“TBTA”) doing business as MTA Bridges and Tunnels, will hold public hearings pursuant to Vehicle and Traffic Law Sections 385-a and 1180-e on Weigh-in-Motion and Work Zone Speed Enforcement programs. The hearings will review the public uses, benefits, purposes, and location of these legislative initiatives and will give the public an opportunity to comment.

Description of the Projects

TBTA is implementing modern technology recently authorized by New York State to protect the structural integrity of bridges and tunnels operated by TBTA. Specifically, TBTA will use Weigh-in-Motion (WIM) technology for a pilot on the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge (RFK) to impose monetary liability on the owners of overweight trucks. TBTA is also implementing work zone speed enforcement camera technology to improve safety for workers and vehicle passengers by deterring motorist speeding in work zones.

Weigh-in-Motion Pilot on the RFK Bridge

New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law was amended to authorize the use of WIM technology on the RFK Bridge for a pilot project. To protect the RFK Bridge’s structural integrity, WIM technology will enable TBTA to safely and efficiently enforce truck weight restrictions and impose fines on violators. The pilot project will deter overweight trucks that cause degradation to the RFK Bridge from traversing the bridge.

WIM technology utilizes roadway sensors to weigh passing vehicles on a bridge in conjunction with adjacent cameras to capture identifying information corresponding with overweight vehicles. The WIM system is required to undergo a daily self-test and a semi-annual calibration check.

Signage will be installed to notify motor vehicle operators that the WIM monitoring system is in use. Owners of overweight trucks that exceed the maximum gross vehicle weight by 10% or more and/or axle weight by 20% or more will be subject to a fine. If a truck is in violation of both gross vehicle weight and axle weight restrictions, the owner is liable for a separate penalty for each such violation.

Work Zone Speed Enforcement Program

The Work Zone Speed Enforcement (WZSE) pilot program, which was signed into law in 2021, was expanded to include TBTA and extended to 2031. The WZSE program is designed to improve safety for workers and vehicular travelers by deterring motorists from speeding in work zones. Speed cameras will be placed at work zone construction and maintenance locations to identify and issue violations to owners of vehicles that exceed the posted speed limit by 10 miles per hour or more.

All of TBTA’s bridges and tunnels are eligible to have speed cameras in place. The cameras and violations will be in effect only during the hours that crews are working in a work zone. Work zones with speed cameras will have clear signage leading up to the work zones.

Dates, Times and Place of the Public Hearings

Monday, October 6, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday, October 7, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

This public hearing will be held in a hybrid format with options to participate in-person as well as virtually via Zoom’s online platform and conference call feature, with a livestream available on the MTA YouTube channel.

Location of the Hearings (In-Person)

New York City Transit, 130 Livingston Street, 1st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201. The public may join the hearing via Zoom at https://mta.zoomgov.com/j/1603815727 or by phone at (646) 828-7666. A link will also be provided on the MTA website.

Directions

By Subway: ACFR to Jay Street – MetroTech, R to Court Street, 23 to Borough Hall, 45 to Borough Hall. ACG train to Hoyt/Schermerhorn. By Bus: B25, B26, B38, B41, B45, B52, B57, B61, B62, B65, B67, B103

Registering for the Public Hearings

Registration to speak can be made in advance by visiting https://www.mta.info/2025-wim-wzse-hearing which will remain open through the hearing date. Registration will close at the start of each hearing. The public may join the hearing via Zoom at https://mta.zoomgov.com/j/1603815727 or by phone at (646) 828-7666. A link will also be provided on the MTA website.

For More Information, to Pre-Register to Speak or to Submit Comments

Those wishing to pre-register to be heard at the Public Hearing must register on the website at https:// www.mta.info/2025-wim-wzse-hearing. Verbal testimony will be limited to two (2) minutes. You may present verbal testimony or submit written statements in lieu of or to supplement oral testimony concerning the proposed projects.

Written comments will be accepted online at https://www.mta.info/2025-wim-wzse-hearing. Comments may also be submitted via postal mail to: MTA Government & Community Relations, Attn: Bridges and Tunnels WIM/WZSE Hearing, 2 Broadway, 16th Floor, D16.94 New York, NY 10004. All written and online comments must be received by 5:30 p.m. on Friday, October 10, 2025. Comments received after this date and time will not be included in the transcript. For questions about the hearing, contact: Rose Pascone, Assistant Director of Government and Community Relations, MTA Bridges and Tunnels, 2 Broadway, New York, N.Y.10004. Tel: 646-252-7634 or Rose.Pascone@mtahq.org.

Accessibility and Language Assistance Services

At the public hearings, American Sign Language and CART Captioning will be available.

People who are blind or have low vision can request accommodation by September 30, 2025, either online or by telephone.

People who are deaf or hard of hearing may use their preferred relay service, or the free 711 relay service and then ask to be connected to the Public Hearing Hotline at (646) 252-6777 to speak with an agent.

sion by Sept. 30. The CAC is accepting public comment on the $5.5 billion bid, which would allow for 6,000 slot machines, 800 gaming tables, 2,000 hotel rooms and a 7,000-seat arena and generate an estimated 5,000 new and permanent union jobs. The public can also submit testimony via email to ResortsWorldNYCPublic Comment@nystec.com, or by mail, addressed to Resorts World NYC Community Advisory Committee c/o NYSTEC, Attn: CAC Consultant Team, at 540 Broadway, 3rd floor, Albany, NY 12207. Q — Kristen Guglielmo

For Language Assistance or Other Accommodations

If language assistance or any other accommodation is required, please submit a request at least three (3) business days before the hearing date in one of the following ways:

• Online by submitting a request through the registration form at https://www.mta.info/2025-wim-wzse-hearing

• By telephone by calling the public hearing hotline on 646-252-6777.

• By postal mail by sending a letter to: MTA Government & Community Relations, Attn: Bridges and Tunnels WIM/WZSE Hearing

2 Broadway, 16th Floor, D16.94 New York, NY 10004.

Goingyourway

Metropolitan Transportation Authority www.mta.info

Fall lawn care plans for cool-season grasses

Spring is the season most often associated with lawn care, and for good reason. Grass starts growing in spring, and the season is a great time to fertilize many grasses in the hopes lawns can look their best and endure the hotter, dryer weather of summer.

Spring might mark the time when many homeowners begin tending to their lawns each year, but it’s important to recognize the significance of fall lawn care as well. Grasses vary, and homeowners are urged to identify which type of grass is in their lawn so they can ensure it gets the care it needs before winter’s first frost. Cool-season grasses like p erennial ryegrass and Kentucky bluegrass are common in various regions, and the following strategies can help homeowners with these types of grasses tend to their lawns this fall.

to the intervals recommended on the packaging of the fertilizer you’ve been using, making sure not to forget to fertilize this fall.

• Conduct a soil test. A soil test can determine if the soil is lacking any nutritive elements it needs to come back strong in spring. Certain amendments can restore pH balance if necessary and foster stronger growth when lawns come back in spring.

• Stick to your recommended fertilization schedule. Homeowners who have been fertilizing since spring are urged to continue doing so in fall at the recommended interval. It’s easy to forget to fertilize in fall thanks to cooler temperatures that don’t call lawn care to mind and busier schedules after school starts again and summer vacation season ends. But many fertilizer manufacturers advise users of their products to fertilize several times over the course of the year, including in fall. Stick

• Aerate, if necessary. Soil can become compacted over time, and that can cause a range of problems for a lawn. Compacted soil can make it harder for water to reach the roots of grass, which weakens grass and makes it more vulnerable to damage during adverse weather events like drought. Compacted soil also makes it harder for nutrients in fertilizer to get into the soil. Aerating is best left to professionals, particularly in larger lawns, as the job can foster strong root development when done properly.

• Remove thatch where it’s excessive. Thin layers of thatch can benefit lawns by delivering nutrients from glass clippings and leaves to a lawn. However, when thatch is excessive, it can block air, water and even fertilizer from reaching the soil. Thatch often can be removed with a rake, but lawns with especially thick layers of thatch may need to be scarified. Homeowners can take a DIY approach to scar-

Cool-season grasses still need watering even after summer gives way to fall.

ifying or hire a landscaping professional to dethatch the lawn and remove the thatch from their properties.

• Continue to water the lawn. A cool-season grass will continue to require water into the fall. Though the lawn won’t need to be watered as frequently in fall as in summer, various lawn care professionals note cool-season grasses still need roughly an inch of water each week in fall.

• Remove leaves as they fall. Fallen leaves can affect a lawn in much the same way as excessive amounts of thatch, blocking water and nutrients from reaching the soil. So it’s best to remove fallen leaves, especially when they begin to fall in large quantities. Fall is an opportune time to tend to a lawn to increase the chances grass grows bac k strong in spring. Q — Metro Creative Connection

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Saturday, Sept.

This impeccably maintained mother/daughter style hi-ranch features 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 baths, beautiful hardwood floors, and ample storage space. It is just a half-block walk to Charles Park, six blocks to the A train/ AirTrain for easy commuting, and only 10 minutes to JFK Airport. Enjoy summer fun at Rockaway Beach, which is 6 miles away, or try your luck at Resorts World Casino, just 2 miles from the home. With quick access to major parkways, traveling to Manhattan is a breeze. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity! Lot size: 45X100, Building size: 26X47 Building Square footage is 2280

A quick guide to mortgage interest rates

Buying a home is the most expensive purchase many people make in their lifetime. Some people do it only once, while others are in the market with greater frequency. In any instance when the home buying process involves securing a mortgage, buyers can benefit from knowing a thing or two about mortage interest rates.

A mortgage interest rate can help buyers determine if a given home is affordable or beyond their budget. Rocket Mortgage says mortgage interest rates can have a major impact on longterm costs, so it is imperative to seek the lowest rates possible. However, an assortment of economic variables affect mortgage interest rates, and conditions unique to each buyer also can affect the rate they’re eligible to obtain. Understanding home loan rates can help potential buyers better navigate the complex process of buying a home.

What is mortgage interest?

money. Mortgage interest is calculated as a percentage of the remaining principal, says Investopedia.

How are mortgage rates set?

Mortgage rates are not determined by a single variable. They are derived from a combination of fac-

creditworthiness. They will look at, among other things, a borrower’s credit score and debt-to-income ratio. A higher credit score typically results in a lower interest rate. A lower DTI indicates a lower risk to the lender, also potentially resulting in a lower interest rate. Squaring away finances well in advance of applying for a mortgage can help home buyers secure lower interest rates that could save them considerable sums of money over the life of their mortgages.

When a person buys a home with a mortgage, he or she doesn’t just pay back the amount borrowed, which is called the principal. The loan also requires paying interest, which is essentially the cost of borrowing

tors that includes the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, economic conditions and a borrower’s personal financial situation. The Federal Reserve (in the United States) influences the overall rates by adjusting the federal funds rate, or the rate at which banks lend to each other overnight. This not only impacts mortgage rates, but also additional interest rates, according to Fannie Mae. Lenders will ultimately decide on the specific rates to offer borrowers.

How does a borrower’s financial situation affect mortgage rates?

Lenders will conduct a thorough assessment of a potential borrower’s

How do loan types affect mortgage interest?

A home buyer will pay interest no matter the mortgage type, but there are options to select a fixed or adjustable interest rate, or even interest-only mortgages.

According to Bankrate, with a fixed-rate mortgage, the interest rate remains the same throughout the life of the loan, meaning the payment for principal and interest will remain consistent. Additional charges that are wrapped into mortgage payments could change, however. Property taxes and homeowners’ insurance charges could increase, for example. Fixed rates tend to be lower when the

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Understanding home loan rates can help potential buyers better navigate the complex process of buying a home.

term of the mortgage is shorter. So borrowers can opt for a 20-year mortgage over a 30-year to save some money on interest.

An adjustable-rate mortgage will see the interest rate change during the repayment period. It may start with a low introductory rate for the first several years of the loan, but

then can go up or down depending on market indexes and benchmarks. Many lenders put a cap on how high the interest rate can go, however. Various factors determine mortgage interest rates for home buyers, including market conditions, credit standing, federal rates, the type of loan, and term length. Q — Metro Creative Connection

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Winningest skipper in Amazin’s history mourned Johnson, 1986 Mets manager, dead at 82

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Davey Johnson, who managed the Mets to a World Series championship after a distinguished 13-year playing career, died Friday in Sarasota, Fla., after what published reports called a long illness.

Johnson was 82. He managed the Mets from 1984 into the 1990 season.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Davey Johnson,” Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen said in a statement on X. “Davey’s 595 wins remain the most in franchise history, and his legacy is highlighted by him leading the 1986 team to a World Series championship. He led with a quiet confidence and unwavering belief in his team, always caring deeply for his players both on and off

the field ... On behalf of our entire organization, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Davey’s family, friends, and all who were impacted by his remarkable life and career.”

Johnson, primarily a second baseman in has playing days, was a threetime Gold Glove recipient and a fourtime All-Star. He played on four pennant winners in his eight years with the Baltimore Orioles, winning World Series rings in 1966 and 1970.

He already had played a huge part in Mets history 15 years before he ever donned the blue and orange.

In October 1969, Johnson flied out to Cleon Jones for the final out of the World Series as the Miracle Mets dis-

Marshall, a ’62 Met, dead at 94

Jim Marshall, a 1962 New York Met if only for 17 games, was the oldest living ex-Amazin’ when he died Monday at 94.

The infielder, obtained from the San Francisco Giants, made the most of his time in New York. The Baseball Reference website states he hit .344 as a Met with three home runs

and four RBIs in 35 at-bats before being traded to the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he ended his five-year career at the end of the season.

He also played for the Baltimore Orioles and Chicago White Sox; and managed the Chicago Cubs and Oakland Athletics. Q — Michael Gannon

patched the heavily favored Orioles in five games.

Players from the 1986 championship team mourned his loss in the team’s statement.

“Davey Johnson was the greatest manager I ever played for,” Darryl Strawberry said. “He let us do our own thing. This is a sad day for the Mets and for the 1986 Mets family.”

Keith Hernandez, a team leader in 1986 and longtime club broadcaster, credited Johnson with saving his career.

“He let me be myself on the field,” said Hernandez, himself a multiple Gold Glove winner. “He knew when to be tough and when to take it easier. It was a joy playing for him.”

“He was just a player’s manager,” said Mookie Wilson. “He made it fun to go to the field. He laid down the law when needed, but other times he just let us play.”

Reports said Johnson fought management — and won — to add a young Dwight Gooden to the club’s 1984 roster out of spring training.

“He took a chance on me when I was 19,” Doc said. “Davey wasn’t afraid to make a tough decision. I

know I wouldn’t have had the career I did without him.”

Mets broadcaster and former pitcher Ron Darling, who played his first full season under Johnson in 1984, also sang his former manger’s praises.

“Getting to the major leagues is tough,” Darling said. “Succeeding in the major leagues is even harder, and to accomplish that you need a guardian angel. Davey was my guardian angel.”

Reliever Roger McDowell also praised the manager and the man.

“Davey was really a forward thinker,” McDowell said. “He knew his players’ strengths and weaknesses. He always set us up to have success as a team and individually. Our Met family has lost a quality man.

Johnson also played with the Atlanta Braves, Philadelphia Phillies and Chicago Cubs, as well as for a year in Japan, in a career that ended in 1978.

A career highlight took place in 1973 when he finished second in the National League with 43 home runs, one behind Pittsburgh Pirates Hall of Famer Willie Stargell. He joined Atlanta sluggers Darrell Evans (41)

and the legendary Henry Aaron (40) to give the Braves the first team with three players reaching 40 in the same season.

Johnson also piloted the Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles Dodgers, Orioles and Washington Nationals to the postseason in a career that extended through 2013. Those clubs all paid tribute to Johnson on Saturday, as did the New York Yankees with a moment of silence before their game in the Bronx.

His 1,372-1,071 managerial record places him 33rd on the all-time victory list, while his .562 winning percentage ranks 26th. Q

B SPORTS EAT

Donate blood, save a life

The streak goes on

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

United States Tennis Association officials must be pleased with the just-concluded US Open at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center at Flushing Meadows.

The USTA had its best attended Fan Week ever after adding the mixed doubles competition to it, which in effect expanded the Open from a two-week to three-week tournament. The weather was as good as I can remember as there was little rain or extreme heat.

The only downer was that for the 22nd straight year, an American did not win the men’s singles championship. In fact, no American man has won any Grand Slam event since Andy Roddick lifted the big trophy at the 2003 US Open.

Frances Tiafoe, one of the highest-ranked Americans on the Association of Tennis Professionals tour, spoke about the Grand Slam futility. “I do not feel extra pressure because of it, but yes, I have discussed it with other American players. It is frustrating. I will say this. When one of us does win a Slam, the wins at them will quickly come in bunches,” he declared confidently. Tiafoe recognized it is discouraging for American tennis fans when nearly every Grand Slam final pits Spain’s Carlos Alcaraz against Italy’s Jannik Sinner, which was the case Sunday.

The marquee match of the US Open outside of the finals was the third-round contest between

past champions Coco Gauff and Naomi Osaka in which Osaka prevailed. Gauff admitted her game has not been as sharp as she would have liked since winning this year’s French Open.

While her New Balance athletic shoes are not in the same sales league as Nike’s Air Jordan line, Gauff’s “CG” line has done well. “The CG4 should be out before the end of the year,” she told me.

After defeating Gauff, Osaka told the media the most important aspect of her victory is that she is assured of being in the main draw of the 2026 US Open. “I am relieved I won’t need a wildcard invitation!” she said. As she stepped off the podium, I joked that she doesn’t have to worry about being on the Challenger circuit, pro tennis’ minor leagues, anytime soon. “That’s a good one!” she chuckled.

The most impressive player was American Amanda Anisimova, who lost to Poland’s Iga Swiatek, 6-0, 6-0 at the Wimbledon final. Anisimova said at the US Open that she recognized that “double bagel” will always be part of her legacy, but she would learn and grow from it.

Anisimova defeated Swiatek at the US Open semi-finals, before losing a grueling match to the top-ranked Aryna Sabalenka at Saturday’s championship. I have a feeling she will win a Grand Slam in 2026.

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

The New York Blood Center is urgently seeking donors of all blood types to help surgery and cancer patients, new mothers and babies and accident and crime victims in need, as late summer brings a sharp drop in donations as residents mark the end of summer and prepare for the school year, it said.

Information on how to donate blood or schedule a drive is available at nybc.org.

Upcoming area blood drives include:

• Geordie’s Joint, from 12 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 79-19 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven; blood drive coordinator

Patricia Robinson;

• Indo Caribbean Federation, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 14 at 95-30 118 St. in South Richmond Hill; blood drive coordinator Frank Singh;

• NYPD 106th Precinct, from 12 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 23 at 103-53 101 St. in Ozone Park; blood drive coordinator Sgt. Navdeep Singh; and • Holy Child Jesus Church, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 28, in the gymnasium at 111-02 86 Ave. in Richmond Hill; blood drive coordinator Helen Aviles. Q

Davey Johnson NEWYORKMETSIMAGE/X

ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING

by Stephanie G. Meditz

Two artists are honing in on slices of life on the gallery walls of Maspeth, though in their own unique ways.

s of t u in thei

s thhough g in their w walls

Petals to the mettle

Sarah Bedford and Kevin McNamee-Tweed’s concurrent exhibitions at Mrs., which both had opening receptions Sept. 6, examine the convergence of growth and decay and still moments in day-to-day existence, respectively.

In her show at 60-40 56 Drive, entitled “Fangs and Fruits, and Falling Trees,” Bedford depicts plants in dark, earthy hues, with elements of abstraction. History, nature and the future are just some of the themes woven into her paintings, as is the ongoing cycle of life and death.

“I’ve always been interested in prehistoric plants, things that have seed beds that they’ve resurrected and put in science labs and regrown plants,” Bedford told the Chronicle. “And there’s these other ones, mainly the ones called living fossils ... they look like rocks, but they’re succulents.

“Some of those started to work into this idea of, where are we heading in our world, and ecologically, and what are we looking at for the future?” she continued. “And that idea of not knowing and that kind of darkness of regrowth and hope is part of how I organically work with the paintings.”

Bedford said she also is interested in color as a psychological space, which is what inspired the subdued palette of her show, which runs through Nov. 1.

Hoping to instill a sense of connection and curiosity in the viewer, Bedford said she wanted the images to be a bit difficult to make out, as social media in the modern age tends to lay things bare.

One painting in the exhibition depicts the endangered ghost orchid. Bedford sought to help viewers see them anew — she said she enlarged the plant on the canvas and let it evolve in its own way. She also reimagined the elusive, recently discovered wooly devil plant into a rock formation.

The natural world also is central to McNamee-Tweed’s pictorial ceramics around the corner at 60-19 56 Road. The textured, wall-hanging works in his show “Before Lunch”

continued on page 27

PUBLIC NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY

THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ANNOUNCES THE AVAILABILITY OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE RECORD FILE

SPRING CREEK PARK SITE GATEWAY NATIONAL RECREATION AREA, NEW YORK

The National Park Service (NPS) announces the availability for public review of documents comprising the Administrative Record File for the selection of the remedial action at the Spring Creek Park Site (Site), located in Gateway National Recreation Area, New York. NPS seeks to inform the public of the availability of the Administrative Record File at the information repository listed below, and to encourage the public to review documents as they are placed in the Administrative Record File. Although public comments are welcome at any time, a formal public comment period (about which the public will be notified) will occur upon completion of the Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study (RI/FS) Report and the Proposed Plan. Public feedback obtained will be considered prior to finalization of the Proposed Plan, which will be documented in the Site’s Record of Decision (ROD).

NPS is in the process of conducting a comprehensive Remedial Investigation (RI) over multiple phases which includes sampling soil, groundwater, and sediment, and conducting gamma surveys to identify elevated radioactivity. RI field investigation activities will begin in the fall of 2025.

The Administrative Record File includes documents that will be considered or relied upon in the selection of the remedial action at this Site. Documents now in the Administrative Record File include, among others, prior environmental investigation reports, historical documents and reports, sampling and analysis plans, gamma radiation survey reports, news articles, and community updates and fact sheets.

As the remedial action progresses, additional documents will be added to the Administrative Record File. These additional documents will include, but will not be limited to, the RI/FS Report, comments submitted by interested persons, NPS’s responses to significant comments, if any, and the ROD, which formally selects the Site remedial action.

The Administrative Record File is available for review at:

Queens Public Library – Howard Beach Branch

92-06 156 Avenue

Howard Beach, NY 11414

Phone: 718.641.7086

Website for Hours of Operation: https://www.queenslibrary.org

Comments on the Administrative Record File should be submitted in writing to:

Ms. Daphne Yun

Gateway National Recreation Area

210 New York Avenue

Staten Island, NY 10305

Email: Gateway_Feedback@nps.gov

King Crossword Puzzle

Lou Carnesecca had hoop dreams in Corona, too I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Alfredo Giovanni Carnesecca, born on July 14, 1901, landed in New York City on the ship Columbia, which had sailed from Genoa, Italy, on Nov. 8, 1922. He marrried Adele Pinotti on April 5, 1924. They had one child, Luigi, born on Jan. 5, 1925.

Dad Alfredo supported the family by running a grocery store. Luigi, known as Lou, joined the U.S. Coast Guard and upon discharge entered St. John’s University, graduating in 1950. He fell in love with Mary Chiesa, daughter of a hotel chef, who lived in his parents’ apartment building on East 62nd Street in Manhattan. They married on July 3, 195l, and honeymooned in San Juan, Puerto Rico. A daughter, Enes, followed. The family lived in a 24-unit apartment building at 99-36 41 Ave. in Corona.

The home of legendary St. John’s men’s basketball coach Lou Carnesecca at 182-47 Midland Pkwy. in Jamaica Estates, as it looked in the 1960s. INSETCOURTESYSJU/FILE

Carnesecca’s love and passion for basketball led him to become the men’s basketball coach for St. John’s University from 1965 to 1970 and again from 1973 to 1992. He brought the team to the NCAA Final Four in 1985. In 24 seasons, he compiled an astounding 526-200 record, for which he was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1992. Loved by all, he also was known for sometimes wearing bizarre, garish sweaters at the games. He bought a beautiful home only five minutes from the university at 18247 Midland Pkwy. in Jamaica Estates, walking distance from future President Donald Trump, who also lived on Midland Parkway. St. John’s basketball arena was named in Carnesecca’s honor in 2004. He passed away at age 99 on Nov. 30, 2024. Q

Enter the deep blue sea with kaleidoscopic art

by Marlee Wollman qboro contributor

The Garage Art Center in Bayside has transformed itself into an ocean for September.

From Sept. 6 through 28, the not-for-profit space at 26-01 Corporal Kennedy St. is hosting “Topographies,” a solo exhibition by Connecticut-based artist Peter Gerakaris.

Last weekend, the show commenced with a vibrant reception, and it will include a free artist talk, Kaleidoscopic Connections: Reconnecting Nature and Culture, on Sept. 20 from 3 to 4:30 pm. Details are at garageartcenter.org.

The magnetic centerpiece of the show is a mesmerizing 48-inchdiameter round painting titled “Turtle Oculus Tondo,” functioning as a portal to an underwater realm populated with coral, coasts and endangered sea turtles. Two expansive murals extend the imagery around the perimeter of the walls, engulfing viewers to provide a panoramic aquarium-like experience.

Gerakaris calls his style “aquatic-

stood and explored of all earthly realms. Why don’t we place as much emphasis and allocate as many resources to exploring our blue planet as we do outer space?

“Anyone who has been snorkeling or scuba diving can appreciate this otherworldly place teeming with life just beneath the water’s reflective surface. After glimpsing this sublime dimension as a scuba diver, one can never look at a body of water the same way again — without imagining, what world lies beneath?

and wonder.”

Passion for marine life and innate curiosity shine through in Gerakaris’ works.

Obtaining his scuba certification a few years ago and literally diving into the underwater domain heightened his awareness of the climate crisis and its effects on coral reefs and coastlines.

topographic.” The entrancing and vivid hand-painted collages depict subaqueous motifs like microscopic forms, aerial reef maps and fragments of flora and fauna, all presenting electrifyingly with kaleidoscopic intensity. The effect is a visually captivating and stunningly immersive experience, especially when the added stereoscopic 3D

glasses layer is introduced.

“I’ve relished the opportunity to work with the GAC, as this exhibit has afforded the opportunity to explore a new strand of artwork with our oceanic frontier as the focal point,” Gerakaris said over email. “Astoundingly, oceans cover over 70% of our planet’s surface, yet remain among the least under-

“As a color-junkie and artist, I’m also fascinated by how wavelengths of color are absorbed and filtered by water the deeper you dive. For example, you lose red at about 20ft, orange at 30ft, yellow at 60ft, with green fading around 80ft, ultimately turning into a monochrome blue world near 100+ft. At nearly twice that depth, it’s essentially black (unless you carry your own light source, like a bioluminescent creature).

“Immersing viewers in the Topographies installation seeks to evoke this visceral sense of awe

His work ranges from paintings to mosaics to origami to grand installations and has been recognized globally, in both public and private collections, such as those of Cornell Tech and the city Department of Cultural Affairs.

For Garage Art Center director and founder Stephanie Lee, these enchanting subaquatic works were perfectly suited for the space.

“The gallery, filled with colorful sea creatures and interactive 3D glasses, was especially magical for children,” Lee said, recalling the opening reception that drew a sizable crowd as storms cleared.

“Babies and kids ran joyfully around the yard, making the whole evening feel lively and full of delight.” Q

Nature, still life and death at Maspeth gallery

from page 25

beckon the viewer closer not only due to their small size, but also their intricate details and narrative depth.

“Some motifs that repeat are the natural world, mining daily life for meaning and narrative and thinking about what it means to tell stories and make meaning,” he said.

The 16 pieces now on view are the first of two installments, though McNameeTweed thinks of the exhibition as one

Crossword Answers

cohesive body. The first part will run through Oct. 4, and the second from Oct. 7 to Nov. 1. One may learn more by emailing hello@mrsgallery.com or calling (347) 841-6149.

His display includes several ceramic paintings of interior spaces. One such piece, “Accumulation,” depicts a wall full of drawings and a table full of pots, figurines and the melted wax of a well-loved candle. The lived-in settings reflect both the intimate rituals of daily life and the environment’s capacity for memory and creativity.

McNamee-Tweed’s favorite piece, “Untitled (Landscape/Projected),” superimposes a face over a landscape of lush green grass and a bright yellow sun, both up in the blue sky and reflected in a body of water.

“It was technically really hard to figure out how to execute it,” he said. “But it also has some resonance thematically.”

Humor also is at play in the exhibition — one work entitled “Praying Mantis Ordering Another Drink” depicts just that, the insect’s leg raised as if attempting to get a bartender’s attention.

McNamee-Tweed said he hopes viewers come away from his show with a little joy,

Many of Kevin McNamee-Tweed’s ceramics, such as “Untitled Accumulation (Selfing and Unselfing),” inset, depict snapshots of life, as Sarah Bedford’s “Ghost Orchids” and “Flannel Flowers” intertwine it with death. On the cover: Bedford said her nature paintings, such as “Green Morpho,” are becoming more abstract.

but also consider what it means to exist.

“I’ve managed to be kind of humbly devoted to this way of working, surprisingly to me ... I always gravitated to art because I felt like it was a space of freedom that I

could change and grow and learn new things,” he said. “But I think that this way of working actually is full of so much mystery and risk and failure and surprise that I’m still pretty happily in it.” Q

Garage Art Center Director Stephanie Lee, left, artist Peter Gerakaris, center left, with beard, and supporters celebrate his new show, “Topographies.” Next to Lee is artist Michal Shapiro, and with Gerakaris are his wife, Naz, and their baby, Arta.

PHOTO BY SUNNY CHOI

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ

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by virtue of possession of that certain Share Certificate held in accordance with Article 8 of the Uniform Commercial Code of the State of New York (the “Code”) and by virtue of those certain UCC-1 Filing Statement made in favor of Secured Party, all in accordance with Article 9 of the Code, Secured Party will offer for sale, at public auction, (i) all of Pledgor’s right, title, and interest in and to the following: Emcee Realty LLC (the “Pledged Entity”), and (ii) certain related rights and property relating thereto (collectively, (i) and (ii) are the “ Collatera l”). Secured Party’s understanding is that the principal asset of the Pledged Entity is that certain fee interest in real property commonly known as 45-45 39th Street a/k/a 45-41/45-49 39th Street, Long Island City, New York 11104 (the “Property”). Maltz Auctions (“Maltz”), under the direction of Richard B. Maltz or David A. Constantino (the Auctioneer”), will conduct a public sale consisting of the Collateral (as set forth in Schedule A below), via virtual bidding, on September 18, 2025 at 1:00pm , in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the approximate amount of $1,900,000.00, including principal plus interest, and reasonable fees and costs, plus default interest through September 18, 2025, subject to open charges and all additional costs, fees and disbursements permitted by law. The Secured Party reserves the right to credit bid. Online bidding will be made available for pre-registered bidders via Maltz's online bidding App available for download in the App Store or on Google play and via desktop bidding at RemoteBidding.MaltzAuctions.com.

Bidder Qualification Deadline: September 17, 2025 by 4:00 pm. Executed Terms & Conditions of Sale along with ten (10%) of Bidders intended bid amount (to be submitted via wire transfer) are

COUNTY OF HORRY IN THE FAMILY COURT FIFTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT Docket No.: 2025-DR-26-00113 Filed: Horry County 2025 Aug. 19 D1:28 Renee N. Elvis Clerk of Court Horry County, S.C. Athanasios Pavlou, Plaintiff, vs. Laura T. Lowe Defendant. NOTICE OF FILING COMPLAINT: TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANT, LAURA T. LOWE: YOU WILL PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that a Complaint in this action for divorce is filed in the Office of the Clerk of Court for Horry County on January 16, 2025. LAW OFFICE OF STEPHANIE VAUGHT LITTLE, PC By: Stephanie Vaught Little Attorney for the Plaintiff Post Office Box 144 North Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29597 stephanie@ northmyrtlebeachlaw.com

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76-15/17/19 69TH PLACE, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/02/25. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Camille Driscoll, 23 Hoffman Road, New Hyde Park, NY 11040. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS ATLANTICA, LLC, Plaintiff AGAINST SIMIN AKAVAN A/K/A SIMINE AKAVAN, INDIVIDUALLY AND AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF PETER SENTOUKARIS AKA PETER SENTOUKARAS; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered June 9, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on October 3, 2025 at 10:00 AM, premises known as 221-53 Horace Harding Expressway, Oakland Gardens, NY 11364. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block: 7527 Lot: 53. Approximate amount of judgment $1,807,066.76 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #711758/2020. Jerry A Merola, Esq., Referee Fein, Such & Crane, LLP 28 East Main Street Rochester, NY 14614 LHFJC006 86891

8TH AVE BK CENTER LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/14/2025. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Jia Shu Xu, 112-15 Northern Blvd, #2, Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS

The Bank of New York Mellon FKA The Bank of New York, as Trustee for the certificateholders of the CWABS, Inc., Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2007-10 Plaintiff, Against Yves-Merry Telemaque; Commissioner of Social Services of the City of New York Social Services District; Discover Bank; Estate of Cleo Veal, by Pub admin of Queens; New York State Department of Taxation and Finance; Bank of New York Mellon, John Doe and New York City Parking Violations Bureau Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/30/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, on 9/26/2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 116-52 218th St., Cambria Heights, NY 11411, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Block 11318 Lot 3 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $885,433.77 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 721638/2019 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Michael A. Cervini, Esq., Referee. SHELDON MAY & ASSOCIATES Attorneys at Law, 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 Dated: 7/24/2025 File Number: 36774 CA

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - 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 ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-RSl, Plaintiff, Against VERNON R SAMUELS, VIOLET SAMUELS, KAREN J SAMUELS, KEVIN R SAMUELS, et al Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 06/05/2025, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, in Queens County Supreme Courthouse located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, on 9/19/2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 143-35 228th Street, Rosedale a/k/a Springfield Gardens a/k/a Laurelton, NY 11413, and described as follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Block 13506 Lot 136 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $523,214.42 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 704556/2018 Dominic L. Chiariello, Esq., Referee. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 7/25/2025 File Number: 560-2633 CA

Notice of Formation of JAMES BUILT RIGHT LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/06/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: HASSAN ISHMAEL, 104-25 202ND STREET, SAINT ALBANS, NY 11412. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 2018-2, Plaintiff against BRENDA LANCLOS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 18, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on October 3, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 117-26 204th Street, St. Albans, NY 11412. Block 12633 Lot 18. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $502,457.75 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 715570/2020. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Kristen Jean Dubowski, Esq., Referee File # 21-001540-01

Notice of Formation of FLOORING NYC LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/09/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: FLOORING NYC LLC, 15729 88ST, HOWARD BEACH, NY 11414. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of ONE MEDIA NY LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/02/25. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC 2959 NORTHERN BLVD., APT 49D, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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.

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NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY U.S. BANK TRUST COMPANY, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 2023-1, Plaintiff against 5S CONSTRUCTION, INC., et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered July 22, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on September 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 13520 Denis Street, Springfield Gardens, NY 11434. Block 12993 Lot 36. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Queens, County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $581,954.79 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 705106/2024. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Yvette Dudley, Esq., Referee File # 24-000442-01

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SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR PARK PLACE SECURITIES, INC. ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-WHQ3, - againstDAVID LINN, 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 March 4, 2024, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR PARK PLACE SECURITIES, INC. ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2005-WHQ3 is the Plaintiff and DAVID LINN, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BOULEVARD, COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on October 10, 2025 at 10:00AM, the premises known as 144-04 70TH ROAD, FLUSHING, NY 11367; tax map identification 6657-7; and description: ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH OF QUEENS, COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK . . . Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 713419/2020.

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

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

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff against WUILLER BUSTAMANTE, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, NY 10591. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered July 9, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on October 10, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 91-03 95th St, Woodhaven, NY 11421. Block 8992 Lot 196. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $426,708.15 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 720054/2019. Cash will not be accepted at the sale. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Richard M. Gutierrez, Esq., Referee File # 3000-001512

SOLUM ENGINEERING PLLC

Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 8/21/25. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 4516 163rd St., Flushing, NY 11358, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: To practice Engineering.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WACHOVIA MORTGAGE CORPORATION, -against- MICHAEL C. BANKS

A/K/A MICHAEL BANKS, 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 May 14, 2025, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WACHOVIA MORTGAGE CORPORATION is the Plaintiff and MICHAEL C. BANKS A/K/A MICHAEL BANKS, ET AL., are the Defendants. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BOULEVARD, COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on September 19, 2025 at 10:00AM, the premises known as 144-45 SPRINGFIELD BOULEVARD, JAMAICA, NY 11413-3453 and the following tax map identification 13490-22. ALL THAT CERTAIN PROPERTY SITUATED IN THE BOROUGH OF QUEENS IN THE COUNTY OF QUEENS AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 717410/2019; Lamont Ramsey Bailey, Esq., as Referee; Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Notice of Formation of SS SECURITY TRAINING NYC LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/30/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: MD SHAMIM HUSAIN, 87-23 168TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11432. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS

MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiffagainst - TRAVIS GREEN, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on July 25, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY, on the second floor in Courtroom 25 on the 26th day of September, 2025 at 10:00 AM. 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 known as 620 Beach 69th Street, Arverne, (City of New York) NY 11692. (BL#: 16029111) Approximate amount of lien $676,203.69 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 705844/2023. Carolyn Salian Clyne, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218 For sale information, please visit Auction. com at www.Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832 Dated: June 4, 2025 During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

Notice of Formation of RASAI RESEARCH, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/30/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RASAI RESEARCH, LLC, 229 BERRY ST., BROOKLYN, NY 11249. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO NATIONAL CITY BANK, Plaintiff AGAINST ROGER LEE; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 10, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on October 10, 2025 at 10:00 AM, premises known as 15720 27th Avenue, Flushing, NY 11354. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block: 4868 Lot: 14. Approximate amount of judgment $84,578.26 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #702009/2023. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832. Gregory LaSpina, Esq., Referee Fein, Such & Crane, LLP 28 East Main Street Rochester, NY 14614 PNNYC015 86981

Notice of Formation of SavorSeek LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/02/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: SAVORSEEK LLC, 42 FERN DR., JERICHO, NY 11753. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff AGAINST LASEAN JONES, STRACY JONES, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered March 10, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on September 26, 2025 at 10:00 AM, premises known as 11232 209th Street, Queens Village, NY 11429. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Queens, in the County of Queens and State of New York, Block 10985 Lot 36. Approximate amount of judgment $503,145.01 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #706174/2023. Valerie Katsorhis, Esq, Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-004417 86700

Notice of Qualification of 8646 FORT HAMILTON PKWY SPE LLC Appl. for Auth. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/18/25. Office location: Queens County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 06/26/25. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co. (CSC), 80 State St., Albany, NY 122070543. DE addr. of LLC: c/o CSC, 251 Little Falls Dr., Wilmington, DE 19808. Cert. of Form. filed with Secy. of State of DE, John G. Townsend Bldg., 401 Federal St., Ste. 3, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

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