Queens Chronicle 10-09-25

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE

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BLUEPRINT BUZZ

Both parties blame each other, as stopgap measures are struck down Federal shutdown enters second week

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

The federal government has been partially shut down for more than a week, and as of Wednesday, Congress did not seem any closer to resolving the impasse.

The flow of federal dollars stopped at 12:01 a.m. Oct. 1 after lawmakers failed to pass a spending bill to keep the government funded. The standstill stems from debates about healthcare — Democrats want to extend soon-to-expire Affordable Care Act tax credits and reverse cuts made in President Trump’s sweeping policy bill, which was signed in July. Republicans have said they are open to negotiating on healthcare, but not until the shutdown ends.

Both parties’ stopgap proposals failed for the sixth time Wednesday.

“Democrats are here and ready and working for your healthcare benefits and we are not going to bend and yield to someone who does not want you to have healthcare,” Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica) said at a City Hall press conference Sunday, citing Trump’s attempts to curtail the ACA.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-Brooklyn) on Tuesday struck down a Republican bill to extend ACA tax credits through the end of next year, calling the temporary measure a “nonstarter,” The Hill

reported that same day.

“People will die because of this Republican assault on our healthcare,” Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) said at Sunday’s press conference. “I’ll say that again — people will die.” The cost of people’s healthcare in Meng’s district could increase by thousands of dollars annually if ACA tax credits are not extended, she said.

Not all federal services will feel the effects of the shutdown. Social

Security benefits are considered mandatory and will continue, and recipients of Medicare, Medicaid and disability insurance should still receive their benefits. Post offices will stay open, too, as the U.S. Postal Service is not funded by taxes.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program will distribute benefits through October, but it remains unclear what could happen if the shutdown continues past that.

Services deemed nonessential have been suspended. According to several published news reports, airports in major cities are facing staffing shortages that led to delays this week.

The Senate continues to vote on spending

bills, and while they sometimes had approval from the majority of lawmakers, it was less than the required 60 votes to pass.

Both parties say the other is to blame for the shutdown. A banner on the White House’s website that leads to a “government shutdown clock” reads “Democrats have shut

down the government.”

The White House said in a Monday article that most Americans want Democrats “to end their disastrous government shutdown,” citing a poll by Harvard’s Center for American Political Studies and Harris.

The data show that 70 percent of Americans oppose the shutdown. While 53 percent believe Republicans are to blame, 65 percent think Democrats should accept a resolution at current spending levels until new bills pass.

Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Nassau, Queens) emphasized a need for both parties to “hammer out a deal.”

“If the Republicans refuse to negotiate and the shutdown continues, the impact on my Long Island and Queens constituents will be real and painful: federal workers missing paychecks, small businesses waiting on federal contracts, and seniors facing uncertainty with access to services they count on,” Suozzi said in a statement. He is one of 11 Democrats to back a bipartisan bill that would

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IN DOOR YARD SALE INDOOR YARD

Thursday, Oct. 9th Friday, Oct. 10th Saturday, Oct. 11th 9:00 am - 2:00 pm

President Trump is among the Republicans who have expressed openness to negotiating Democrats’ demands, but not until the federal government shutdown ends.

PHOTO BY MOLLY RILEY / THE WHITE HOUSE / FLICKR / FILE

Lindenwood could get more housing

Rezoning application for Linden Blvd. property reviewed at CB 10 meeting

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Community Board 10 voted to approve a modified rezoning application by Linden Canyon, LLC for 78-08 Linden Blvd. in Lindenwood last Thursday night, following a public hearing that highlighted the project’s potential benefits and community concerns.

The proposal seeks to rezone the nearly 48,000-square-foot site on Linden Boulevard, between Sapphire Street and 79th Street, from an R4/C1-2 district to R7D/C2-4 and R6A.

The site is home to a shopping center and a Walgreens. Steve Sinacori, an attorney and project representative, said Walgreens’ lease has expired and it is staying on a month-to-month basis, along with the other tenants, because “rent has been cut in half.”

The developers’ revised plan, presented by Sinacori at the meeting at the Old Mill Yacht Club in Howard Beach, calls for two buildings instead of the original proposed single structure: a four- to six-story senior housing building fronting 79th Street, and an 11-story workforce housing building along Sapphire Street for those making between $45,000 and about $120,000 in income. The project would provide 267 residen-

tial units, including 97 for seniors and 170 for workforce housing.

The first 20 percent of units in both buildings are reserved for members of the community, per Sinacori. All units will be distributed through a lottery.

The design was modified in response to feedback from the community and from Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), including stepping up the building’s

height away from lower-scale homes and reserving space for a possible FDNY ambulance bay.

“We didn’t really put any commercial space in this building because they have a shopping center across the street,” Sinacori said, though he clarified that the commercial overlay was retained for future flexibility.

A deed restriction, subject to a lender’s approval, will limit the

79th Street frontage to a maximum six-story street wall.

During the meeting, board members and residents raised questions about the project’s financing, the need for commercial space and the impact on area infrastructure.

Sinacori said the project’s financing would rely on a combination of bank loans and city subsidies.

“I just want to make sure you

guys understand that the groundwater level is just about even with the sidewalk in that area,” said board member Peter Granickas. “When you start building, you’re going to be working in mud. You’re going to be working in a pond.”

Sinacori said the development team is aware of that, and is experienced in managing such challenges.

The board’s Land Use Committee chair, John Calcagnile, outlined the conditions attached to the approval, including the deed restriction and the incorporation of community feedback into the final design.

“We got a little assurance there that it’s not going to be too massive, and it’s not going to be too overwhelming,” he said.

The application is making its way through the city’s Uniform Land Use Review Procedure. It will head to the Queens borough president, the City Planning Commission and, ultimately, the City Council, for final consideration.

If it moves forward, the project will still need to get financing and routine city approvals, a process that could take several years.

“After this is approved, it still has a number of years to go beyond that,” Sinacori said. Q

Transitional Services for NY outlines proposal for mental health facilities Respite center may come to Ozone Park

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

A proposal to transform the former Villa Marcello catering hall, at 96-25 Rockaway Blvd. in Ozone Park, into two new mental health facilities was presented to Community Board 10 last week during the group’s meeting at the Old Mill Yacht Club in Howard Beach, drawing questions and concerns from board members and area residents.

Transitional Services for New York, a nonprofit organization, outlined plans to demolish the vacant property and construct a new building housing both a 10-bed crisis respite residence and a 14-bed short-term transitional residence. The programs are designed to help adults with mental health needs stabilize and transition to independent living.

During the meeting, Chief Operating Officer Dan Donoghue described the programs

as “open door,” allowing clients to maintain jobs and family connections while receiving support.

The building, designed by Amie Gross Architects, will feature separate entrances for each program, secure lobbies with 24/7 staff and dedicated outdoor spaces.

“We believe in quality housing, not just quality services,” Donoghue said, adding that the buildings will be made of quality materials, fit in well with the community and spur development around them.

The respite program is designed to help those experiencing emotional crisis that need more support than they would get at home, but less so than in a hospital. Donoghue described it as a “warm, safe, home-like environment” with a 28-day stay.

The transitional center would be for individuals who have a desire to live on their own, but need support to reach that goal. The staff

would work with them on budgeting, housing applications, food resources and other benefits, with a maximum 120-day stay.

Board members and residents raised concerns about security, noting the proximity to several schools and the presence of a cannabis dispensary across the street. Donoghue emphasized that all visitors must sign in when entering the building, residents are prohibited from using drugs or alcohol while in the program and that the organization has successfully operated similar facilities near schools without incident.

Admission to the programs will be based on referrals from area hospitals and mental health professionals, with a focus on individuals motivated to transition to independent housing.

The board did not take a vote on the proposal. Its approval is pursuant to state Mental Hygiene Law Section 41.34. Q

Transitional Services for New York is seeking to construct a building for a respite

Community Board 10 last Thursday voted to approve a rezoning application for 78-08 Linden Blvd. in Lindenwood that would allow for the construction of 267 residential units.

GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE

It’s below sea level. Now, city may buy out ‘The Hole’

Low-lying

area

on Brooklyn-Queens

line is first place it might acquire lots proactively

by Samantha Maldonado THE CITY

This article was originally published on Oct. 3, 5:00 a.m. EDT by THE CITY

For decades, residents of a neighborhood that straddles the border of Brooklyn and Queens have dealt with the unique effects of living in a basin: swampy flooding, bumpy streets, overgrown lots strewn with trash and leaky septic tanks — because homes are not connected to the city sewer system.

With roads named for Amber, Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald, what some locals call the Jewel Streets area may be better known as The Hole. It’s a neighborhood unlike any other.

And it is now unique in another way: It’s becoming the first place in the five boroughs where the New York City government will offer to buy flood-prone homes from homeowners — proactively, instead of in response to a disaster.

The Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice last Friday was to begin collecting information from homeowners possibly interested in the city purchasing their property, including one- to four-unit homes and vacant lots.

For some locals, the possibility of selling their homes and no longer dealing with the conditions in the neighborhood comes as a relief.

“I’ve had enough,” said Bart Aclin, a retired Fire Department inspector who has owned his home there for nearly 25 years. “I’d rather just sell the property, if they give us fair market value, what they claim the property is worth. We’ll see.”

Under the shadow of leafy trees, Aclin’s home is at one of the lowest points in the neighborhood. He loves the quiet seclusion. He has an aboveground pool in the backyard, and he feeds four stray cats daily. But even on a dry autumn day this week, pumps continually moved water from his permanently soggy basement

through a tangle of hoses into the overgrown lot next door.

“I don’t really want to leave, but it’s getting to that point,” Aclin said.

While homeowners can raise their hands for a possible offer from the city, there’s no guarantee it’ll come through. The city will consider if the property could fulfill a particular use in the context of new development and drainage upgrades in the neighborhood. For instance, the city could turn the land into park space or a community garden, put pumps or stormwater storage systems on it, or build new, flood-resilient housing.

The Resilient Acquisitions program, as the new effort is called, is intended to be “a resilience strategy that preserves as much housing as possible and ideally expands it by using properties that are acquired to defend other parts of their neighborhood,” said Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala.

Moving on

Acquiring property like the city is proposing in The Hole is a type of climate change adaptation known as managed retreat, where people, buildings and equipment move away from flood risks. But with the city’s housing crisis, taking places to live out of service is a thorny endeavor, and can have ripple effects throughout longstanding communities.

“We’ve designed a program that does really allow for us to have the targeted and necessary community conversation

she’s both excited and a bit sad when she considers the uncertainty ahead.

“It’s a lot to think about. It’s really a lot,” she said. “I was surprised myself. I thought, ‘Aren’t you supposed to be happy, jumping through the roof?’”

Rodriguez said she’d have to figure out where to move, keeping in mind the schooling of her two kids, ages 5 and 10. On a recent sunny afternoon, they rode their bikes and played basketball in the front yard. Rodriguez called the area her oasis.

have cleaned up refuse that was dumped in some empty lots and began towing abandoned cars. The DEP in 2023 installed new storm sewers and catch basins, which residents said helped to cut down on the standing water.

acquiring homes around flooding,” said Paul Lozito, deputy executive director of the Mayor’s Office of Climate and Environmental Justice.

After interested homeowners submit a form to the city, they can expect to get a call back in about two weeks’ time, he said. Then various agencies will talk to each other as well as to local individuals and community groups about uses for the land. Once the city decides what can be done with the property, homeowners can formally apply to sell their homes or lots.

Case managers will work with both property owners and tenants living in the buildings to help them move.

Making it work

The Hole, sandwiched between East New York, Brooklyn, and Lindenwood, Queens, was built on top of marshland and has long dealt with neglect.

Even drizzles could cause standing puddles in the middle of streets, which attracted mosquitoes and made getting around difficult. Many homes aren’t hooked up to the city sewer system and rely on septic tanks, which also overflow when it rains. Floodwaters have at times seeped into or frozen gas lines, cutting off heat to homes.

Residents took matters into their own hands. They jerry-rigged a series of makeshift pumps to get water out of the street, and in some places, paved their own sidewalks. They invested tens of thousands of dollars in their homes to create protection from floods, and repair things when the water comes.

Some homeowners like Julisa Rodriguez have been advocating for many years for the city to buy them out. Now that that could happen,

But she’s haunted by a memory from a decade ago of being pregnant with her son and the first floor flooding so badly she had to decamp to a hotel and then renovate. She said she recently got her house appraised and learned it was worth $1.3 million. How much the city can offer will determine her next steps, she said.

“I’m hoping that the city is fair and just. I think we do deserve it,” she said.

Floating hope

The new program is designed to cope with not just coastal flooding — water comes from the ocean or bays during storms, which New York saw during Superstorm Sandy — but stormwater flooding, too, or what happens when the skies open up.

The environmental protection agency singled out the Jewel Streets area as one of 86 places in the city that need significant interventions because of stormwater flooding. And officials came up with several ideas to fix it over the years.

The agency considered redoing the entire neighborhood’s sewer system, and connecting it to the rest of the city, but that would mean elevating streets up so high that they would bury the front doors of some homes. The city has also floated building a bluebelt — an engineered enhancement of a natural watershed to store and channel stormwaters — but would need more property to do so.

While the acquisition program is limited to the Jewel Streets area for now, it may expand to other floodprone neighborhoods as funding becomes available. The city will choose the areas based on where other strategies for preventing or protecting against flooding aren’t physically or financially feasible.

The Adams administration had proposed exploring an acquisition program for flood-prone properties in 2023 as part of the annual citywide sustainability report. That idea was built upon work from the de Blasio administration, which floated buying up properties soon after the floodwaters of 2021’s Hurricane Ida ravaged several low-lying neighborhoods. Some residents of repeatedly deluged homes in Hollis, Queens, asked the city for buyouts, but have never seen offers.

The government has bought out homes in flooded neighborhoods before, but all were done in response to Hurricane Sandy. And they were limited to certain coastal neighborhoods in Queens — including Edgemere on the Rockaway Peninsula — and in Staten Island, including in Midland Beach and Oakwood Beach.

“The Hole” resident Bart Aclin has a basement that often floods, Oct. 2, 2025.

That the Jewel Streets area would be the focus of the city’s first proactive buyout program was “awesome,” said Debra Ack, a member and co-founder of the East New York Community Land Trust, a community group that has been working with the residents since 2021 to push for improvements.

The city’s Housing Preservation and Development agency is working to create a neighborhood plan for the 12 blocks of the Jewel Streets area, as well as the surrounding, wider area that’s wedged between Conduit Avenue and Shore Parkway.

Along with other agencies — including the transportation and sanitation departments — the plan aims to better connect the streets, reduce flooding and develop new housing and open space. Already, agencies

Ack was in a working group convened in 2023 to figure out how a buyout program could be part of the city’s strategy to become “rainproof,” and pushed for the neighborhood to be considered.

“This way you can condemn the land, make it undevelopable and put some nature back there,” Ack said. “It will still take time. At least we know it’s in the works, it’s doable now. The change is really happening for the Jewel Streets.” Q THE CITY (www.thecity.nyc) is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to hard-hitting reporting that serves the people of New York.

Julisa Rodriguez and one of her children at their home in “The Hole,” a below-sea-level neighborhood, Oct. 2, 2025. PHOTOS BY ALEX KRALES / THE CITY

An area straddling the Brooklyn-Queens border known as “The Hole” is prone to flooding.

The QueensWay gets a boost City allocates $14 million toward project’s first phase

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The QueensWay, a plan to build a High Line-style park along the abandoned Rockaway Beach Line Long Island Rail Road tracks, received a $14 million boost from the city for phase one of its plan.

The allocation, announced on Sept. 30, comes after more than $117 million in federal funding was revoked from the project through President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” Before its termination, $5.6 million of the grant was already awarded.

The federal funding was to be used toward a 1.3-mile stretch of the greenway into Forest Park, the project’s second phase.

The first phase of the QueensWay, the Metropolitan Hub, would transform a vacant, cityowned corridor near Forest Hills, from Metropolitan Avenue to Union Turnpike, into a 5-acre park with 0.7 miles of shared greenway and access to green space for nearby communities. It was already fully-funded prior to the city’s grant and in its design phase.

Shutdown

continued from page 2

extend ACA tax credits for a year, Fox News said Wednesday.

Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-Brooklyn, Queens) said 15 million Americans will lose coverage due to Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, but that is “only one part of the healthcare crisis Republicans are creating,” citing skyrocketing coverage costs if ACA tax credits expire.

“We cannot and we will not accept a budget that strips healthcare from working families,” Velázquez said.

Some local lawmakers expressed support for fellow Democrats in Washington. City Councilmember Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills), who chairs the Committee on Health, said the shutdown is “painful” for everybody, but even more so if Democrats give in.

She continued, “It’s vital we don’t lose sight of the long-term vision to create quality open space, economic opportunity, public art and recreational programming, and public safety for our neighborhoods through this greenway.”

The project’s supporters and stakeholders maintain that they will not give up on the QueensWay, even with the loss of the federal investment.

“The City’s commitment to moving Phase One forward, even in the face of recent federal

Karen Imas, a longtime Forest Hills resident and a member of the Friends of QueensWay group, said in a statement, “Friends of the QueensWay and local residents applaud the City’s funding and commitment to this transformative vision for Central Queens. We remain focused, working with the City of NY, on delivering Phase One as a proof of concept that reflects local priorities.”

funding cuts, shows our determination to deliver for Queens residents,” Councilmember Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) said in a press release from the Friends of the QueensWay and Trust for Public Land.

Meanwhile, the competing QueensLink project, which would reactivate train service between Rego Park and Ozone Park and add 33 acres of parks and bike paths along the abandoned tracks, is undergoing an economic impact study, conducted by consulting company Steer Group, scheduled for completion on Feb. 27, 2026. Q

“I think there are compromises to be made, but it doesn’t look like the Republicans want to sit down with the Democrats,” Schulman told the Chronicle during a Monday interview.

Councilmember Julie Won (D-Long Island City) in a statement blamed Republicans for the “reckless” shutdown, and Councilmember Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) said they “decided to go on vacation” rather than fund “lifesaving services for millions of Americans.” Q

The QueensWay, a plan that reimagines the abandoned Rockaway Beach Line Long Island Rail Road tracks into a linear park, recently got new city funding. RENDERING VIA TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND / FILE

In OZP, abuse info session

In recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) on Oct. 15 is hosting a free informative session aimed at education, prevention and connecting survivors with support and resources.

From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Ozone Park Jewish Center, at 107-01 Crossbay Blvd., attendees will hear from guest speakers representing Safe Horizon and the NYPD Domestic Violence Unit who will lead discussions and activities focused on prevention and support strategies.

The program is presented with the assistance of the Ozone Tudor Civic Association.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 41 percent of women and 26 percent of men have experienced contact sexual or physical abuse or stalking from an intimate partner.

“By coming together this month, we can break the silence, share critical resources, and remind survivors that they are not alone,” Addabbo said in a statement. “Every voice matters, and together we can create meaningful change.” Q

Abandoned vessels cleared from the bay

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The Office of Marine Debris Removal and Vessel Surrendering removed a total of 18 abandoned and unwanted watercraft from around Jamaica Bay in September, Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) announced Monday. The office was created in April 2024 through legislation sponsored by Ariola.

“The Office of Marine Debris Removal and Vessel Surrendering is really hitting the ground running,” Ariola said in a statement. “In just a short time, they’ve made a visible impact in cleaning up Jamaica Bay. I’m proud to have created this office, and I look forward to building on its success so future generations can enjoy cleaner, safer waters here and throughout this city.”

Dan Mundy Jr., president of the Jamaica Bay Ecowatchers, said the office has had “tremendous positive impact” on Jamaica Bay, noting that it has cleared hundreds of vessels, docks and pieces of debris to date.

“This year we see a new element to this effort with the boat turn-in program, which allows boat owners to turn in old, no longer used vessels before they break loose

Miles for MBC returns 10/25

The annual Miles for MBC and Kelly Marie Metavivor Howard Beach Color Fun Run is returning to Frank M. Charles Memorial Park for a fifth year on Oct. 25.

Nearly 30 percent of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer will have a recurrence as a metastatic disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no known cure for metastatic breast cancer.

The color run serves as a fundraiser for MBC research on behalf of Kelly Adams Mahindra, a pediatric pulmonologist living with MBC, or stage 4 breast cancer, since 2019.

and float out and harm the environment,” Mundy said.

Watercraft taken by the program are brought to a facility where they are drained of fluids and disassembled. Metals are collected by a salvage company, and the remaining debris is crushed and disposed of as landfill. Those who wish to surrender a vessel may contact Ariola’s office at (718) 318-6411. Q

The 3-mile walk starts with a color powder toss, and volunteers will spray runners at three color stations throughout the race. No experience is necessary. Items will be raffled, and 100 percent of net proceeds will fund MBC research. Last year’s event raised more than $20,000.

Those who wish to register for the race or donate may visit tinyurl.com/ ye2a2nrh.

Participants will meet at the park, at 98th Street and 165th Avenue, for checkin at 2 p.m. The race will kick off at 3 p.m. Q — Kristen Guglielmo

CONZA | MCNAMARA

Georgetown University, B.A.

St. John’s University School of Law, J.D.

CYNTHIA J. CONZA, ESQ.

EDWARD R. MCNAMARA, ESQ.

Eighteen abandoned vessels were removed from Jamaica Bay through the Office of Marine Debris Removal and Vessel Surrendering. PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

EDITORIAL AGEP

Eight stories is beyond enough in Bayside

There’s a corner of Bayside so nice the Google Maps car hasn’t even gone there yet.

We don’t live there, but we’d like to maintain its suburban feel for those fortunate enough to call the area bounded by Bell Boulevard, 28th Avenue, the Cross Island Parkway and 24th Avenue in Bay Terrace home — not to mention nearby residents on other lovely blocks.

But now life as they have known it is in jeopardy because developers are seeking to erect an eight-story building on the site of the old Bay Terrace Country Club. It’s too much building in too little space! We’re talking about 128 marketrate units, another 55 on the “affordable” spectrum and 65 more that would be assisted living. That’s 248 new homes in a spot that now houses primarily an empty swimming pool and some hardscaping.

Yes, we acknowledge that there are buildings of seven stories right down the road. However, that does not mean that the area needs more. And, as area residents pointed out during a heated Community Board 11 hearing on Monday night, those buildings are in neighboring Community District 7. There’s a distinct difference between the two.

The hearing was held because the would-be developers

need a change of zone in order to build what they plan. And as CB 11 Chairman Paul DiBenedetto pointed out, if they get their way, others will seek to buy up reasonably large lots in the area to do the same because “precedent matters.”

Among those who took the mic at the hearing, held at Bayside High School, only the developers spoke in favor of the plan. Everyone else was opposed, from DiBenedetto to area Councilwoman Vickie Paladino, from land-use expert Paul Graziano to civic leaders and a slew of area residents.

The developers could build eight fairly big single-family homes as of right, and of course that’s what the community wants. But they won’t. How about a compromise? How about, say, three-story garden apartments yielding far fewer units and more open space? Could they not be profitable?

The developers say they’re from the area, and maybe they believe their proposal is what’s best for the community. Certainly the city does need more housing. But the mayor and Council just teamed up to enact a massive rezoning of neighborhoods across the five boroughs for that. The City of Yes for Housing Opportunity plan should be enough for builders for the foreseeable future. On top of that, Long Island City and Jamaica are both on the cusp of massive

rezonings that will bring a lot more density. There’s no need for an oversize apartment house in Bayside, especially when flooding is so likely, and especially when there’s a school going up across the street, with no parking for teachers. Also relevant to the big picture when it comes to restraining overdevelopment, to protecting the single-family neighborhoods we have, is the need to vote down the three propositions related to land use voters will find on their ballots next month. Questions 2, 3 and 4 would make it much easier for proposals like the one in Bay Terrace to go through without the community getting a say. Vote no!

Question 2 would let developers fast-track affordable housing proposals in areas the city says do not have enough.

Question 3 would quicken what the city deems lesser expansions of density, allowing more basically as of right.

Question 4 would establish a “three men (or women) in a room” politburo to override Council decisions on land use. All need to be voted down. All are targets of litigation, though it will probably fail. Questions 1, 5 and 6 are on other matters not addressed by this editorial. Today’s topic is preserving Bayside and like communities, by reining in the overdevelopment some of our leaders see fit to accelerate.

MARK WEIDLER

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Dear Editor:

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Vaccines save lives

“Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” immortalized some great dialogue and some practical wisdom. Trapped with a cliff in front of them and a pursuing army behind them, Paul Newman’s Cassidy says, “We’ll jump ... it’ll be OK. If the water’s deep enough and we don’t get squished to death, they’ll never follow us.” Robert Redford’s Sundance Kid resists, finally confessing that he can’t swim.

Here’s the wisdom: Cassidy replies, “Are you crazy? The fall will probably kill ya.” Interesting analysis.

So many of us have no real experience with diseases that ran rampant before the introduction of vaccines. For example, we’ve heard about the DPT combined vaccine but don’t really know about these horrific diseases. My older sister, whom I never knew, died of the D, diphtheria, during World War II. Nina was born in a POW camp in Siberia and, when she and my parents were released — another strange piece of WW II history — they decided to move south rather than remain in Siberia, ending up in Uzbekistan.

On the way, they crossed the Aral Sea. My mother remembered that so many people were sick on that ferry. The progress of the disease slowly suffocated my sister as a membrane grew in her throat and closed her windpipe. She died in my mother’s arms in Bukhara; she no longer recognized our father. She was 2 and my parents

never recovered from her death. In a world of war, bacteria are another lethal weapon. There are life and death choices in everyone’s life. Vaccines offer a possibility to evade death and diseases. We need them available and accessible. Anyone making them less available, trusted, and accessible is an enemy of public health. Currently, he’s the secretary of health and human services.

Debra Michlewitz Bayside

Harmful GOP shutdown

Dear Editor:

(An open letter to the public)

President Trump and Washington Republicans, including New York’s GOP delegation, have led our country to the brink of a disaster.

The last nine months have been a failure of leadership, and now, as their party argues over petty grievances, millions of vulnerable New Yorkers will suffer. Today, the cost of their

inability to govern will be 2.8 million New Yorkers losing SNAP benefits; hundreds of thousands of women, infants and children left without the WIC nutrition program; tens of thousands of federal workers going without pay; and countless hospitals and farms facing financial ruin.

Congressional Republicans must stay in Washington until they reach a deal that keeps the government funded and open, and does not destabilize access to healthcare, or food and nutrition programs.

Andrew Hevesi NYS Assemblyman for the 28th District Forest Hills

Murder spikes in Queens

Dear Editor:

Re your Oct. 2 editorial, “Mayor Adams achieved, and failed, on a grand scale”: One of Mayor Adams’ major achievements was lowering NYC’s violent crime rate. But that

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

is not true in part of our borough — the area that cops call Queens North command, which includes eight precincts, from Astoria to Elmhurst, Maspeth to Forest Hills, Flushing to Little Neck. This area has seen a “staggering 62% surge in murders this year,” and a 60 percent rise in shooting victims, compared to the same time last year, notes the New York Post (“Queens Crime Time,” Oct. 5), Queens North is the only NYPD command in the five boroughs to see an increase in killings, according to police data, reports the Post.

What caused this surge? Experts have two ideas. Retired NYPD detective and John Jay College adjunct professor Michael Alcazar told the Post that violent crime is being displaced from other borough commands that are “aggressively targeting their high crime areas.” Queens City Councilman Robert Holden blames the surge on a “lack of police presence” because the NYPD has trouble recruiting and retaining cops.

If both causes are to blame, this means the NYPD must realign its resources to cope with rising violent crime in Queens North. It also means that our elected representatives, including NYC’s likely next mayor, now-Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani, must do their best to boost police morale, rather than pursue an anticop agenda. I also hope that news media will focus more coverage on the crime surge in a vital part of “The World’s Borough.”

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

Dispense with the drama

Dear Editor:

The situation regarding distances of legal marijuana dispensaries from schools is utterly ridiculous.

First, the rule was created to mimic the liquor store regulations, even though there is a major difference. Liquor stores advertise their products outside, and everyone can look in through the windows at the alcoholic beverages they sell. Nobody, adult or child, would have any idea what is being sold inside a legal dispensary because there is absolutely nothing advertised. In fact, the windows are blacked out so nobody walking by can even look in. Additionally, they are required to check everyone’s ID before they can enter the store, and no one under the age of 21 is allowed to enter.

The reality is that convenience stores including 7-Elevens and bodegas pose a far greater risk of influencing youngsters with dangerous products. They all sell beer, wine or hard cider, vapes and tobacco products. Everything is advertised and there is no age restriction for entering.

Lee Rottenberg Middle Village

If you care about animals

Dear

Editor:

A woman on the subway asked if she could take a picture of my sign for the Sept. 13 Animal Rights March: three monkeys with their hands over their eyes, mouth, and ears against a backdrop of how we look away, are afraid to speak up and don’t want to listen when it comes to the implications of meat production. She admitted that she wasn’t vegan, but something about the message seemed to resonate with her.

Very few of us are born into vegan households. There’s usually a moment that allows us to see through what once felt normal. Mine came after a conversation with an animal rights activist at a climate march, which challenged me to look deeper. Though I had been on a plant-based diet for environmental reasons and opposed harming animals, I was still emotionally disconnected from them.

Once I made that connection, the parallels became impossible to miss. In both cases, powerful industries reinforce cultures of denial. Their public-relations campaigns sell us doubt, reduced guilt via greenwashing or “humanewashing,” and equate consumption with patriotism and masculinity. Both create structural coercion that traps workers in harmful jobs and communities of color near polluting sites.

At the march, I heard speakers and everyday people breaking the socially constructed silence with compassion, reason and resolve. They reminded me that we don’t have to be “animal lovers” to care about reducing animal suffering, any more than we have to be “environmentalists” to care about how a changing climate affects people and the world we share. What matters is living up to our values and refusing to look away.

The first steps are simple: Learn more, find your own point of connection and act. Together, we can turn shared values into action.

Todd Levy Dix Hills, LI

Stop Trump’s corruption

Dear Editor:

As a Vietnam-era veteran sworn to uphold the Constitution of our great nation, I am appalled at the lawlessness and corruption of the current administration.

President Trump has unconstitutionally weaponized the U.S. Justice Department against his political enemies, while favoring criminal cronies including Homeland Security czar Tom Homan, who allegedly accepted $50000 in cash in a paper bag.

Trump commuted the sentence of drug kingpin Ross Ulbricht, who was serving two life sentences for running the Silk Road online market, linked to more than $200 million in drug deals and at least six deaths from drugs purchased on the platform.

Trump pardoned all of the 1,500 Jan. 6 insurrectionists, who violently attacked our Capitol and law enforcement personnel, injuring more than 140 police officers.

Now, while Republicans have shut down our government, we just gave Argentina a $20 billion bailout, and China is buying soybeans from Argentina instead of the U.S. Meanwhile, the new administration budget cuts an additional $12 billion from veterans’ healthcare.

It should be noted that construction of Trump’s gold-plated king-sized $200 million ballroom will continue, while our soldiers go unpaid during the shutdown.

It’s a sad day for America when we can’t hold accountable a convicted 34-count felon and sex abuser who stole our secrets, tried to overthrow our government and continues to cover up the biggest child sex-trafficking ring in history.

Robert Keilbach Queens Village

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Replaces Zeno following her indictment Scala named chair of Queens Defenders

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The board of directors for Queens Defenders, a nonprofit that provides legal assistance to those who cannot afford an attorney, has unanimously elected Mike Scala as its new chairman in a vote following the recent termination and indictment of the group’s founder for fraud.

Scala in a Oct. 5 statement said he’s excited to work with the board of directors to move the organization forward.

“Our focus will be on surpassing every expectation under our current contract and earning a reputation for excellence that positions Queens Defenders for lasting success,” Scala said.

Scala is well-known in the South Queens community for his years as a civic activist and for prior runs for public office. His first meeting as the group’s chairman was Oct. 2.

Queens Defenders faced challenges in recent months as Lori Zeno, the group’s founder and former executive director, was terminated earlier this year and later

indicted by federal prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from the nonprofit.

Mike Scala was recently named chairman of Queens Defenders.

COURTESY PHOTO

The organization’s Outreach Center, located at 1857 Mott Ave. in Far Rockaway, remains open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Scala said the center continues to serve as a vital resource for residents facing housing-related issues.

“Our staff are here to help you navigate challenges,” he said. “Whether you’re dealing with a landlord dispute, seeking a new apartment or need assistance with Mitchell-Lama succession rights, the Outreach Center is your one-stop shop.” Q

The annual street fair hosted by the Woodhaven Business Improvement District returned to Jamaica Avenue on Sunday, extending from 80th Street to Woodhaven Boulevard.

The streets were packed with residents from the community and surrounding neighborhoods enjoying a variety of food, including standard fair fare, as well as Mexican,

Caribbean, Italian and other cuisines. Children were eager to jump in a bouncy house or play games for prizes, and adults were able to peruse selections of merchandise from area vendors, including jewelry, makeup, clothing, figurines, plants and furniture, while bands playing live music fostered a perfect ambiance on the sunny afternoon. — Kristen Guglielmo

PHOTOS BY KRISTEN

GUGLIELMO,

Cops seeking alleged shooter in S. Rich Hill

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Cops are searching for the gunman who allegedly shot a man in the thigh Sept. 29 in South Richmond Hill, within the confines of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct.

According to police, it was reported to them that at around 4:20 a.m., a 24-yearold male victim was standing in front of a home on Lefferts Boulevard near 97th Avenue when the suspect approached him and engaged in a verbal dispute. He discharged a firearm, police said, striking the victim in the right thigh.

EMS responded and transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in stable condition. The suspect fled in a black four-door sedan traveling northbound on Lefferts Boulevard to parts unknown.

The sought individual is described by police as having a dark complexion, last seen wearing a black baseball cap, black hooded sweatshirt, black T-shirt, black shorts, black sandals and white socks.

The above individual is sought by police for allegedly shooting a man on Sept. 29 in South Richmond

Flushing man charged in stabbing death: DA

Faces three murder counts, life in prison

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

A 27-year-old Flushing man has been arraigned on multiple counts of murder and other charges for the fatal stabbing and arson at a Flushing home on Oct. 2.

Wei Sheng Chen of 45-18 Smart St. has been charged with first-degree murder and two counts of second-degree murder in the Oct. 2 stabbing death of his mother-n-law, Qiu Jin Shi, 50, in their home. He also is accused of repeatedly stabbing his 17-yearold brother-in-law.

Chen also has been arraigned on counts including second-degree attempted murder, two counts of first-degree assault, seconddegree arson and two counts of fourthdegree criminal possession of a weapon.

knife. He allegedly then stabbed his brother-in-law in the face, chest, back and head with a knife.

Chen allegedly used alcohol to set fires in three locations on the first floor of the home.

Shi was taken to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The 17-year-old victim was treated for approximately 20 stab and slash wounds throughout his body including wounds to his neck, back and abdomen as well as one from his eyelid to the middle of his cheek. All of his injuries together required more than 100 staples and stitches.

Investigators later allegedly recovered two knives.

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. Q

Perp is sought for assault at Aqueduct

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

A man is sought by police after allegedly assaulting another on the platform at the Aqueduct Race Track train station in South Ozone Park on Sept. 27, within the confines of the NYPD’s 106th Precinct.

Police said it was reported to them that

at approximately 4 p.m., a 50-year-old male victim was standing on the platform at the Aqueduct subway station when an unidentified man approached him and a verbal dispute ensued.

The assailant punched the victim multiple times in the face, police said, and threw him to the ground. The man continued to punch the victim in the face and kicked his body before fleeing the location on a northbound A train to parts unknown.

EMS responded and transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in stable condition.

Police described the sought individual as a heavyset male with a dark complexion, about 6 feet, 1 inch tall and 300 pounds.

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. Q

A statement from the office of Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said Criminal Court Judge Glenda Hernandez ordered Chen remanded.

Brother-in-law suffered multiple stab wounds.

He is scheduled to return to court Oct. 9. He faces up to life in prison if convicted of the top count.

“As alleged, this defendant murdered his mother-in-law, repeatedly stabbed his teenage brother-in-law and set three fires in his multigenerational family home,” Katz said in the press release. “Defendant Wei Sheng Chen is now facing murder and arson charges that carry a potential life sentence. Our thoughts are with the family of Qui Jin Shi as we pursue justice for the victims in this case.”

Katz said that, according to the charges and police investigation, Chen shared a family residence with his wife, her mother and her brother.

On Oct. 2, between approximately 3:50 p.m. and 4 p.m., Chen allegedly stabbed Shi multiple times in the torso and arms with a

The New York Post quoted authorities and sources as saying Chen had been drinking before a dispute and set fire to a mattress in the home.

Police said the home is in the 109th Precinct. Officers responded to a report of an assault at the location, only to find the building on fire. The FDNY said 12 units comprising 60 fire and EMS personnel were dispatched to the scene.

The blaze was declared under control at 4:38 p.m.

Police said Shi was unconscious and unresponsive when found. She and the 17-year-old were transported to NewYorkPresbyterian Queens hospital, where she later died of her injuries.

Chen also was taken to an area hospital, with Channel 7 Eyewitness News reporting that he allegedly slashed his own wrists.

Four others, believed to be police officers, were transported for treatment of smoke inhalation. Police and fire officials said in emails to the Chronicle that one person refused treatment at the scene. Q

OZP robbery suspect sought

A man is wanted by police for his alleged role in a robbery at a store in Ozone Park on Sept. 28.

According to the NYPD, at about 3:50 a.m., inside of 75-05 101 Ave., an unidentified male approached a 42-year-old male employee and demanded money from the cash register.

Cops want this man for a robbery in Ozone Park.

When the victim hesitated, cops said, the suspect lifted his shirt and reached for a firearm on his waistband. He went behind the counter and took around $2,800 from the cash register.

The man then fled on foot, going northbound on 75th Street to parts unknown, cops said. There were no injuries reported.

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. Q

PHOTO COURTESY NYPD

Hill. PHOTO COURTESY NYPD

Cops are seeking a man who allegedly assaulted another Sept. 27 on the platform at the Aqueduct Race Track train station in South Ozone Park. PHOTO COURTESY NYPD

Cuomo, Mamdani and Sliwa’s differing blueprints for helping residents save Candidates’ plans for affordability in NYC

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Recent polling has showed that affordability is the top issue for New York City voters, per multiple reports. The three major candidates for mayor, Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), the Democratic candidate, Republican Curtis Sliwa and former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, running as an independent, have outlined their plans to make living in the city affordable for all.

According to his campaign website, Cuomo, if elected, plans to provide targeted tax relief to small homeowners and lower-income workers. He would strongly advocate that the state authorize the elimination of New York City income tax for those with dependents whose incomes are at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

enrollment in Fair Fares NYC, a city program that offers discounted rides for lowincome residents. He has proposed a 100 percent subsidy for low-income New Yorkers on buses and subways.

He also commended the MTA’s fare-free bus pilot program that ran from September 2023 to August 2024 on five bus routes, and said there were “enough promising results” that the city and state should “explore whether this is an effective means of making New York City more affordable.”

Cuomo also plans to expand access to affordable healthcare. He pledged to “connect all New Yorkers to primary care and specialty care when needed” and “establish a NYC Healthcare Ombudsman” to assist residents who are denied coverage by their insurance plans.

He also has announced plans to raise the minimum wage to $20 per hour by 2027. For commuters, Cuomo wants to increase

Fast, fare-free buses are one of Mamdani’s key affordability stances. The MTA’s 2023 pilot program spurred from a bill introduced by Mamdani in 2022, and provisions of that were then included in the MTA’s budget. The program ended, but he has remained adamant that public transit should be “reliable, safe and universally accessible.”

As mayor, Mamdani said he would “permanently eliminate the fare on every city bus” and make them faster by “rapidly building priority lanes, expanding bus queue jump signals and dedicated loading zones to keep double parkers out of the way.”

Mamdani also plans to open city-owned grocery stores focused on keeping prices low.

“Without having to pay rent or property taxes, they will reduce overhead and pass on savings to shoppers,” his website states. “They will buy and sell at wholesale prices, centralize warehousing and distribution, and partner with local neighborhoods on products and sourcing.”

Universal childcare has been one of Mamdani’s main affordability stances, while Cuomo has said he would guarantee universal 3-K and “increase childcare options.”

On healthcare affordability, Mamdani would create a new corps of outreach workers to support patients in understanding public resources

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His website says he will reject Medicare Advantage and higher copays for in-service workers, and instead he plans to work with retirees, workers and unions to lower costs.

Mamdani has proposed raising the minimum wage to $30 by 2030 through a local law, and said it would automatically increase based on cost of living and productivity increases.

He has said he wants to raise taxes on those who earn $1 million per year or more by two percentage points, and raise the top corporate tax rate to 11.5 percent from 7.25 percent. The hikes would have to be implemented through the state, but though Gov. Hochul has endorsed Mamdani, she has said she is unwilling to raise taxes.

Cuomo and Sliwa are against raising taxes. Cuomo has said he would provide “targeted tax relief” to lower-income and middle-class residents, and Sliwa proposed ending property tax increases on working-class homeowners and reducing the tax burden on rental apartment buildings.

Both Cuomo and Mamdani have said they would take on the city’s lack of affordable housing by increasing supply.

continued on page 16

The three candidates for mayor have differing plans to make the city more affordable for its residents.

GOP candidate says boro deserves better

BP Richards highlights bona fides; promises more housing, union jobs

by Naeisha Rose Editor

Henry “Ike” Ikezi, the CEO of a real estate firm and a Republican and United Alliance Party candidate, is challenging Democratic Borough President Donovan Richards in his bid for re-election.

Ikezi, a Jamaica Estates resident who grew up in South Jamaica, told the Chronicle that the top three issues in the borough are education, public safety and affordable housing.

When asked about how he would tackle those issues, Ikezi said there needs to be more equitable funding of schools and better nutrition at such institutions; more severe consequences for commiting crime; and less bureaucracy involved with developing more affordable housing units.

“Most of the kids in 10th grade or lower cannot read at grade level,” said Ikezi, who wants more funding for afterschool programs. “When we create ... extra curricular activities in schools they can stay in school longer and off the streets.”

Ikezi also believes that providing nutritious food for scholars would make them less likely to leave campus to look for other meal options and get in trouble along the way.

Ikezi, a victim of multiple home break-ins, said he is not a supporter of the elimination of cash bail for misdemeanors and nonviolent felony charges.

When asked about potentially innocent people languishing in the jail system waiting to be seen by a judge, he said that he understands the system is not perfect.

Henry Ikezi, left, is running on the Republican and United Alliance party lines to challenge Borough President Donovan Richard’s re-election bid.

“The $19 billion JFK Airport redevelopment is creating 15,000 union jobs and over $1 billion in contracts for Queens businesses, while new projects in Willets Point, Long Island City, and Creedmoor will create thousands more,” Richards said. “Together, we’ve successfully reduced Queens’ post-Covid unemployment rate from 24 percent to just 5.2 percent.”

When it comes to healthcare he has helped secure more than $350 million for Queens hospitals, including the borough’s first standalone cancer center.

“People who have not committed crimes should not languish in prison,” said Ikezi. “My focus is people who have committed crimes, caught committing crimes and repeat offenders ... We need to be toughter on those kinds of folks.”

When asked about having less bureaucracy when it comes to permits for new development and the recent explosion at a Bronx complex, he said that he is not against holding developers accountable and fining them for failures to comply with safety measures, but he believes there needs to be more city Department of Buildings inspectors and staffers to create permits for new development.

Richards, who resides in the Rockaways and grew up in Rosedale and other Southeast Queens neighborhoods, said via email that his top priorities for a next term are expanding affordable housing; driving economic development and jobs; and improving public health and safety.

Richards, who is overseas, said the borough leads the city in housing production with 10,000 affordable units and 30,000 more in the pipeline.

Cheers for 196 years of Neir’s

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center has teamed up with Memorial Sloan Kettering, one of the leading cancer centers in the world, to create a cancer center at 90-28 Van Wyck Expy. in Richmond Hill.

“Every family deserves access to quality care close to home,” said Richards.

When it comes to public safety, the borough president says he supports smart, transparent policing and violence prevention programs.

“I helped secure $105M for the 116th Precinct in Rosedale and backed expanding the Crisis Management System, youth programs, and jobs to promote public safety and community-driven solutions,” said Richards.

On education, he said that he secured $119 million for renovations and new facilities, and he’ll continue to push for smaller and more modern classrooms, and more opportunities for young people.

“Queens deserves leadership that delivers tangible results ...” Richards said. “I’m running for re-election to keep that momentum going and ensure every community in our borough continues to rise together.”

Ikezi said he is an anti-establishment candidate who wants better for the borough.

“We can do better fighting for what we deserve,” said Ikezi, who says he will provide bold new leadership, “better education, safer streets, affordable housing, [and fewer] taxes, tolls and speed cameras.” Q

Neir’s Tavern, the city’s oldest continuously operating bar, is one step closer to marking 200 years, as its patrons celebrated its 196th anniversary with a block party on Oct. 4.

The iconic tavern, at 87-48 78 St. in Woodhaven, nearly closed for good in 2020 but was saved after its owner and CEO, Loycent Gordon, seated top center with members of the anniversary committee, rallied the neighborhood and was able to secure a lease.

“For too long our story was about surviving,” a post on the Neir’s Tavern Facebook page said, accompanied by footage from the block party, adding that the bar has turned

the corner from surviving to stewardship, the theme of the anniversary celebration.

Last Saturday’s event saw plenty of fun for all, with more than 700 people showing up to participate in the festivities, which included a steeplechase event, activity table, raffles, live music and dancing, and the return of the “GoodFellas challenge” banner, with a cutout where Robert DeNiro once stood while filming the movie at Neir’s. Awards were presented to guests and dignitaries, including Chris Dudin, Jennifer Ierardi, Margie Schmidt, U.S. Rep. Nydia Velázquez, Magee Hickey and Liam Castro. — Kristen Guglielmo

The candidates on affordability

continued from page 15

Cuomo’s housing plan, according to his website, says he would enforce tenant protections against excessive rent increases and eviction. Mamdani, on the other hand, says he will freeze rent for all stabilized tenants, which would have to be approved by the Rent Guidelines Board.

Sliwa’s website states that building more housing alone will not address the affordability crisis.

“I will ensure that zoning decisions prioritize affordability and community stability,” he said. “Instead of relying solely on new

high-rise developments, we must focus on revitalizing existing spaces, supporting small landlords, and protecting middle-class families from being priced out of their own neighborhoods.”

Sliwa also said he would incentivize the rehabilitation of vacant rent-controlled units by “reducing red tape and making capital improvements feasible for landlords.”

To help with transportation costs, Sliwa has proposed a $500 rebate for all city resident commuters, including those who use public transit and drivers impacted by congestion pricing. Q

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Time to enroll in Medicare. . . . . Page 6

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A detailed look at Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In most people with Alzheimer’s, symptoms first appear later in life. Estimates vary, but experts suggest that more than 6 million Americans, most of them age 65 or older, may have Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s is currently ranked as the seventh leading cause of death in the United States and is the most common cause of dementia among older adults.

Dementia is the loss of cognitive functioning — thinking, remembering, and reasoning — and behavioral abilities to such an extent that it interferes with a person’s daily life and activities. Dementia ranges in severity from the mildest stage, when it is just beginning to affect a person’s functioning, to the most severe stage, when the person must depend completely on others for help with basic activities of daily living.

The causes of dementia can vary depending on the types of brain changes that may be taking place. Other forms of dementia include Lewy body dementia, frontotemporal disorders, and vascular dementia. It is common for people to have mixed dementia — a combination of two or more types of dementia. For example, some people have both Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia.

Alzheimer’s disease is named after Dr. Alois Alzheimer. In 1906, Dr. Alzheimer noticed changes in the brain tissue of a woman who had died of an unusual mental illness. Her symptoms included memory loss, language problems, and unpredictable behavior. After she died, he examined her brain and found many abnormal clumps (now called amyloid plaques) and tangled bundles of fibers (now called neurofibrillary, or tau, tangles).

These plaques and tangles in the brain are still considered some of the main features of Alzheimer’s. Another feature is the loss of connections between neurons in the brain. Neurons transmit messages between different parts of the brain, and from the brain to muscles and organs in the body.

How does Alzheimer’s disease affect the brain?

other complex brain changes are thought to play a role in Alzheimer’s as well.

The damage initially appears to take place in the hippocampus and the entorhinal cortex, which are parts of the brain that are essential in forming memories. As more neurons die, additional parts of the brain are affected and begin to shrink. By the final stage of Alzheimer’s, damage is widespread and brain tissue has shrunk significantly.

Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease

Memory problems are typically one of the first signs of cognitive impairment related to Alzheimer’s. Some people with memory problems have a condition called mild cognitive impairment. With MCI, people have more memory problems than normal for their age, but their symptoms do not interfere with their everyday lives. Movement difficulties and problems with the sense of smell have also been linked to MCI. Older people with MCI are at greater risk for developing Alzheimer’s, but not all of them do so. Some may even revert to normal cognition.

The first symptoms of Alzheimer’s vary from person to person. For many, decline in nonmemory aspects of cognition, such as word finding, vision/spatial issues, and impaired reasoning or judgment may signal the very early stages of the disease. Researchers are studying biomarkers (biological signs of disease found in brain images, cerebrospinal fluid, and blood) to detect early changes in the brains of people with MCI and in cognitively normal people who may be at greater risk for Alzheimer’s. More research is needed before these techniques can be used broadly and routinely to diagnose Alzheimer’s in a health care provider’s office.

Stages of Alzheimer’s disease

new things, carry out multistep tasks such as getting dressed, or cope with new situations. In addition, people at this stage may have hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia and may behave impulsively.

Severe Alzheimer’s disease

Ultimately, plaques and tangles spread throughout the brain, and brain tissue shrinks significantly. People with severe Alzheimer’s cannot communicate and are completely dependent on others for their care. Near the end of life, the person may be in bed most or all of the time as the body shuts down.

What causes Alzheimer’s disease?

In recent years, scientists have made tremendous progress in better understanding Alzheimer’s and the momentum continues to grow. Still, scientists don’t yet fully understand what causes Alzheimer’s disease in most people. The causes probably include a combination of age-related changes in the brain, along with genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The importance of any one of these factors in increasing or decreasing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s may differ from person to person.

The basics of Alzheimer’s disease

To diagnose Alzheimer’s, doctors may:

• Ask the person and a family member or friend questions about overall health, use of prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diet, past medical problems, ability to carry out daily activities, and changes in behavior and personality.

• Conduct tests of memory, problem solving, attention, counting, and language.

• Order blood, urine, and other standard medical tests to help identify other possible causes of the problem.

• Administer tests to determine if depression or another mental health condition is causing or contributing to a person’s symptoms.

• Collect cerebrospinal fluid via a spinal tap or order blood tests to measure the levels of proteins associated with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

• Perform brain scans, such as CT, MRI, or PET (positron emission tomography), to support an Alzheimer’s diagnosis or to rule out other possible causes for symptoms.

These tests may be repeated to give doctors information about how the person’s memory and other cognitive functions are changing over time. People with memory and thinking concerns should talk to their doctor to find out whether their symptoms are due to Alzheimer’s or to another cause, such as stroke, tumor, Parkinson’s disease, sleep disturbances, side effects of medication, an infection, or another type of dementia. Some of these conditions may be treatable and, possibly, reversible.

If the diagnosis is Alzheimer’s, beginning treatment as early as possible in the disease process may help preserve daily functioning for a while. An early diagnosis also helps families plan for the future. They can take care of financial and legal matters, address potential safety issues, learn about living arrangements, and develop support networks.

In addition, an early diagnosis provides people with more opportunities to participate in clinical trials or studies testing possible new treatments for Alzheimer’s.

How is Alzheimer’s disease treated?

Scientists continue to unravel the complex brain changes involved in Alzheimer’s. Changes in the brain may begin a decade or more before symptoms appear. During this very early stage of Alzheimer’s, toxic changes are taking place in the brain, including abnormal buildups of proteins that form amyloid plaques and tau tangles. Previously healthy neurons stop functioning, lose connections with other neurons, and die. Many

Mild Alzheimer’s disease

As Alzheimer’s worsens, people experience greater memory loss and other cognitive difficulties. Problems can include wandering and getting lost, trouble handling money and paying bills, repeating questions, taking longer to complete normal daily tasks, and personality and behavior changes. People are often diagnosed in this stage.

Moderate Alzheimer’s disease

In this stage, damage occurs in areas of the brain that control language, reasoning, conscious thought, and sensory processing, such as the ability to correctly detect sounds and smells. Memory loss and confusion grow worse, and people begin to have problems recognizing family and friends. They may be unable to learn

Scientists are conducting studies to learn more about plaques, tangles, and other biological features of Alzheimer’s. Advances in brain imaging techniques enable researchers to see the development and spread of abnormal amyloid and tau proteins in the living brain, as well as changes in brain structure and function. Scientists are also exploring the very earliest steps in the disease process by studying changes in the brain and body fluids that can be detected years before Alzheimer’s symptoms appear. Findings from these studies will help improve our understanding of the causes of Alzheimer’s and make diagnosis easier.

One of the great mysteries of Alzheimer’s is why it largely affects older adults. Research on normal brain aging is exploring this question. For example, scientists are learning how agerelated changes in the brain may harm neurons and affect other types of brain cells to contribute to Alzheimer’s damage. These age-related changes include atrophy (shrinking) of certain parts of the brain, inflammation, blood vessel damage, production of unstable molecules called free radicals, and mitochondrial dysfunction (a breakdown of energy production within a cell).

How is Alzheimer’s disease diagnosed?

Doctors use several methods and tools to help determine whether a person who is having memory problems has Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer’s is complex, and it is therefore unlikely that any one drug or other intervention will successfully treat it in all people living with the disease.

In ongoing clinical trials, scientists are developing and testing several possible treatment interventions.

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, medications are emerging to treat the progression of the disease by targeting its underlying causes.

There are also medications that may temporarily improve or stabilize memory and thinking skills in some people and may help manage certain symptoms and behavioral problems.

Additionally, people with Alzheimer’s also may experience sleeplessness, depression, anxiety, agitation, and other behavioral and psychological symptoms. Scientists continue to research why these symptoms occur and continued on page 22

Senior Living Living Guide

New Medicare enrollment, coverage info

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Two important dates in the annual Medicare calendar are practically here. But there are also some changes coming that existing recipients and those looking to sign up for the first time will want to consider before making choices.

Generally, one can sign up for Medicare without penalties in a seven-month period beginning three months before turning age 65 and ending three months after the month one turns 65.

Information from general to detailed can be found at medicare.gov. One of the features on the website, the 128-page “Medicare & You 2026” guide, can be found at tinyurl.com/bdd59w8c.

Part A generally is for inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing care, hospice and home healthcare. Most do not pay a monthly premium provided they or a spouse worked and paid into the system for a long enough period. The annual deductible of $1,676 is expected to go up about $40 when finalized.

Part B is medical insurance, helping to cover expenses including doctors and other healthcare providers; outpatient and home healthcare; durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds and other devices; and many preventive services such as screenings, shots and vaccines; and regular wellness checkups.

Premiums, now $185 per month, are expected to go up to just over $200, an amount that is deducted from a recipient’s Social Security payments.

Annual deductibles, now $257, are expected to go up about $30 when finalized, according to multiple published sources.

Part C refers to so-called Medicare Advantage programs, which are offered through private insurance companies. “Medicare & You 2026” says all plans are Medicare-approved and are bundled with Parts A and B and sometimes Part D, which is the prescription drug program.

The Medicare.gov website states that many plans offer extras that regular Medicare does not, including vision, hearing or dental coverage and more.

Alzheimer’s

continued from page 20

are exploring new medications and non-drug strategies to manage them. Research shows that treating these symptoms may make people with Alzheimer’s feel more comfortable and also help their caregivers. Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anti-anxiety drugs may be helpful for some people with Alzheimer’s, but experts agree that these medicines should be used only after other strategies to promote physical and emotional comfort, such as avoiding stressful situations, have been tried.

It’s important to talk with a doctor about

Medicare programs provide many valuable options, but that also means making many important and often complicated decisions. The federal and state governments have a number of resources to try and guide new and existing applicants through the system.

But several published articles, including by Reuters, have reported that some large insurers, including CVS Health’s Aetna insurance business, Humana and UnitedHealth, will pull Medicare Advantage plans in a number of geographic regions across the country, and that others are cutting back on some of the extras presently being offered or increasing premiums or deductibles.

Anyone whose plan is going to be dropped already should have received a letter saying so, allowing time to find new coverage.

Part D prescription drug plans help pay for a number of medications. They also run through private insurance under rules set by the federal government.

Some copayment or coinsurance plans are available to supplement uncovered portions.

Out-of-pocket costs for drugs covered by individual plans will be capped at $2,100 in 2026, an increase of $100. Once someone

what treatment will be most effective in your situation.

Support for families and Alzheimer’s disease caregivers

Caring for a person with Alzheimer’s can have significant physical, emotional, and financial costs. The demands of day-to-day care, changes in family roles, and decisions about placement in a care facility can be difficult. NIA supports efforts to evaluate programs, strategies, approaches, and other research to improve the quality of care and life for those living with dementia and their caregivers. Becoming well-informed about the disease is one important long-term strategy. Programs that teach families about the

reaches that limit in out-of-pocket spending, plus certain payments other people or entities make, including Medicare’s Extra Help program, the recipient won’t have to pay a copayment or coinsurance for covered Part D drugs for the rest of the calendar year.

Deductibles also are increasing, from $590 to $615. A number of subsidies for some low-income recipients also will be reduced.

Another recent and high-profile announcement was that out-of-pocket costs for insulin will remain capped at $35 per month. The future cost of numerous other drugs presently is the subject of ongoing negotiations.

According to “Medicare & You 2026,” the open enrollment period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 allows people to join, drop or switch Medicare Advantage plans and to add or drop drug coverage programs.

Applicants also can switch from standard Medicare to a Medicare Advantage program or vice versa. Original Medicare partici-

various stages of Alzheimer’s and about ways to deal with difficult behaviors and other caregiving challenges can help.

Good coping skills, a strong support network, and respite care are other things that may help caregivers handle the stress of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. For example, staying physically active provides physical and emotional benefits.

Some caregivers have found that joining a support group is a critical lifeline. These support groups enable caregivers to find respite, express concerns, share experiences, get tips, and receive emotional comfort. Many organizations sponsor in-person and online support groups, including groups for people with early-stage Alzheimer’s and their families.

pants also can join, drop or switch drug plans.

An open enrollment window from Jan. 1 to March 31 in 2026 will allow present Medicare Advantage participants to pick a new plan or switch to original Medicare.

People who are looking for help applying for Medicare or making changes in their present coverage, be it Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medicare prescription drug coverage or Medigap — or addressing other health and long-term care insurance issues — can reach out to the New York State Office for the Aging at aging.ny.gov.

More than 700 trained counselors are in offices for the aging across the state. Counseling is also available through a toll-free help line. Callers will be prompted to enter their ZIP code and will be routed to their local offices for the aging to talk with a trained counselor.

For additional information call 1 (800) 701-0501 Monday to Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

In the larger picture out of Washington, multiple published reports state that the federal government shutdown should not affect payments, but that staff reductions could impact ancillary services such as telehealth medical consultations.

There also are disputes that go back to and preceded passage of the Big Beautiful Budget bill in July.

Statements in August from U.S.. Rep. Brendan Boyle (D-Penn.), the ranking member of the House Budget Committee, and U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), said July’s budget allocations will trigger an automatic $45 billion cut to Medicare directly and billions more in other healthcare programs in 2026; plus a total of $536 billion over the next nine years.

Healthcare policy and funding concerns loom large among concessions that Capitol Hill Democrats are seeking in the government shutdown standoff.

One of those is a new provision that will strip Medicare eligibility from many noncitizens, such as refugees, who are in the country legally but do not have green cards or are not from certain countries. Q

For more information about Alzheimer’s disease: NIA Alzheimer’s and related Dementias Education and Referral Center 1 (800) 438-4380

adear@nia.nih.gov • nia.nih.gov/alzheimers The NIA ADEAR Center offers information and publications for download (PDF) about Alzheimer’s and related dementias for families, caregivers, and health professionals. ADEAR Center staff answer telephone, email, and written requests and make referrals to local and national resources. Q This content is provided by the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA). NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

Does an older adult in your life need help?

It is not always clear whether an aging parent or relative needs help. Sometimes a person will recognize that they need help and request it, or an emergency or sudden illness will make it clear. Others may not want to cause worry or admit they’re struggling.

If you become aware of the signs that a loved one needs help, you will be better prepared to provide support for their safety and well-being.

How to tell if someone needs extra support

The best way to know what someone needs is to ask them directly. But a phone call, email, or text message is not always the best way to tell whether an older person needs help. These signs may indicate that someone needs extra support:

Changes at home. When you spend time at the person’s home, you might notice possible trouble spots. Some examples include:

• Can the person prepare meals on a stove safely?

• Are they bathing regularly and wearing appropriate clothing for the weather?

• Is the home relatively clean and free of clutter?

• Do they have the medications they need,

and are they taking them regularly?

Mental health concerns. Changes in a person’s mood could indicate a need for help. Sometimes depression in older people is confused with normal aging. An older person with depression might brighten up for a phone call or short visit, but it’s harder to hide serious mood problems during an extended visit. Seek immediate help if the person says they feel hopeless or have no reason to live, or if you’re worried they may harm themselves. Call or text the 24-hour 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or call 1 (800) 273-TALK (8255). For TTY, use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Other health concerns. Signs related to the person’s general health that can raise concerns include:

• Significant weight gain or weight loss

• Poor hygiene

• Confusion

• Falls

• Loneliness or social isolation

• Trouble walking or getting around.

Memory issues. Occasional forgetfulness is a normal part of aging. But more significant memory problems, changes in thinking

NEW HEIGHTS CONSTRUCTION LLC

ability or personality, or poor decision-making could indicate a serious condition that requires medical attention.

What to do when a loved one needs help

When you notice signs that your aging parent or relative needs help, it is important to know what steps to take next. Some issues have a simple fix, like needing a new glasses prescription. But other times, you may need to provide more support.

Your first step may be to talk to the older person about your concerns. Mention your worry without sounding critical, such as, “Mom, it looks like you don’t have much food in the house. Are you having trouble getting to the store?”

Then try to fulfill the person’s wishes to the extent possible. For example, if they want to keep cooking at home, you could ask, “Would you like me to arrange to have groceries delivered on a regular basis?” Try to include practical help with your suggestions and give specific examples of what can be done.

If you’re concerned about the person’s physical or mental health, suggest a visit to a health care provider. You might offer to make the appointment, give them a ride, or go with them to see the doctor.

You don’t have to do everything yourself. In many communities, a variety of services are available to help older people. Depending on the person’s needs, you might hire a home health aide to visit on a regular basis, arrange transportation so the person can run errands, or speak with a geriatric care manager to help coordinate care. You can also find ways to share caregiving responsibilities with other family members, neighbors, or friends.

Helping an aging parent or other relative plan for the future

The best time to plan is before the older person needs extensive help. Planning for the possibility of long-term care gives you and your family time to learn about services available in your community and what they

Recognizing changes if you live far away

If you don’t live close to an older family member or see them often, it may be difficult to notice if the person needs help.

With the person’s permission, you could contact people who see them regularly — neighbors, friends, doctors or local relatives, for example — and ask them to call you with any concerns. You might also ask if you can check in periodically.

cost. It also allows the older person to make important decisions while they are still able. There may be a time when your older relative can no longer live independently at home. Learn as much as you can about housing options, which may include moving to a residential facility (such as a nursing home or assisted living) or living with a family member. These choices may depend on the person’s health, ability to perform activities of daily living, financial resources, and personal preferences. Talk about the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.

You may also need to help the older person prepare for decisions about future medical care — a process called advance care planning. It’s important to know what they would want if they became seriously ill or unable to communicate their wishes. Having conversations about the person’s preferences and making a plan makes it more likely that they will get the care they want.

For more information on how to help an aging parent or relative:

Eldercare Locator 1 (800) 677-1116

eldercarelocator@USAging.org eldercare.acl.gov

LongTermCare.gov (202) 619-0724 aclinfo@acl.hhs.gov acl.gov/ltc

Caregiver Action Network (202) 454-3970 info@caregiveraction.org caregiveraction.org

Family Caregiver Alliance 1 (800) 445-8106 info@caregiver.org caregiver.org Q

This content is provided by the NIH National Institute on Aging (NIA). NIA scientists and other experts review this content to ensure it is accurate and up to date.

Healthcare, safety, education remain top concerns as she seeks reelec tion Build on previous strides: Schulman

by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

Consistency is key for incumbent City Councilmember Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills), who hopes to continue working toward her goals for District 29 for a second term.

As chair of the Committee on Health, Schulman has always sought to deliver accessible and affordable healthcare to constituents, she told the Chronicle in a phone interview Monday. But healthcare remains a pressing issue, she said, as services such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are under threat.

“I still have that mission, but that’s going to be made a lot more difficult with the current federal government,” she said. The Trump administration’s sweeping policy bill, signed in July, cut funding from SNAP, as well as Medicaid. It also narrowed eligibility for those and other programs.

Intro. 1390, which Schulman described as “one of the strongest bills that we have,” targets Legionnaires’ disease, a severe form of pneumonia caused by the bacteria Legionella. It would, in part, require building owners to conduct more frequent inspections of cooling towers and renew reporting requirements on cooling tower registrations, certifications and more.

The Council is set to vote on it today, Oct. 9, and it is expected to pass.

The incidence of diabetes in the city has been down, Schulman said, and she continues to monitor the data after her 2023 bill to create a reduction plan was enacted. She also cited progress and ongoing efforts regarding the HealthyNYC campaign, which launched in 2023 to extend New Yorkers’ average life expectancy from 81.5 in 2022 to 83 by 2030.

While challenges lie ahead, she has made strides of which she is proud — in her first term, she secured funding to renovate Long Island Jewish Forest Hills hospital’s emergency department, work now underway. She also has been working with Councilmember Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton) to bring a trauma center to Far Rockaway.

One development that Schulman is “very excited” to have spearheaded is a pilot program in Brooklyn expanding affordable spay and neuter services for cats. The Council last month approved $500,000 toward the program, and if it is successful, lawmakers hope to expand it citywide.

“This is an idea that I had last year, and I brought it to the budget negotiating team and they were very excited about it,” she said. “And we actually got it over the finish line, which I

the City

was very happy about.”

Public safety also is paramount for Schulman — while killings are down citywide compared to this time last year, they are up 61.5 percent in Patrol Borough Queens North, NYPD statistics show. Shootings are up in the command by nearly 60 percent, too.

Asked how to address the spike, Schulman

said it is important to support local precincts, and she does — in last year’s budget, she allocated funds toward more security cameras throughout her district.

She said she has “a lot of faith in” Queens North’s commanding officer, Assistant Chief Brian Henessy, and Queens District Attorney

continued

As

Council’s Health Committee chair, Councilmember Lynn Schulman said access to healthcare remains a pressing issue, as she vies for reelection.

PHOTO BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE

F A L L O P E N H O U S E S FALL OPEN HOUSES

HOLY CROSS HIGH SCHOOL

26-20 Francis Lewis Blvd., Flushing Website: holycrosshs.org admissions@holycrosshs.org (718) 886-7250, ext. 524

Sun., Oct. 19, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

THE MARTIN LUTHER SCHOOL

60-02 Maspeth Ave., Maspeth Website: martinluthernyc.org admissions@martinluthernyc.org (718) 894-4000

Sat., Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Preregistration recommended.

MONSIGNOR MCCLANCY

MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

71-06 31 Ave., East Elmhurst Website: msgrmcclancy.org admissions@msgrmcclancy.info (718) 898-3800

Sat., Oct. 11, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. and 1 to 4 p.m. Preregistration is required.

ST. EDMUND PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL

2474 Ocean Ave., Brooklyn Website: stedmundprep.org dbreen@stedmundprep.org (718) 743-6100

Thu., Oct. 16, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sat., Nov. 1, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Preregistration is required.

ST. FRANCIS PREPARATORY SCHOOL

6100 Francis Lewis Blvd., Fresh Meadows Website: sfponline.org admissions@SFPonline.org (718) 423-8810

Sat., Oct. 18, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Preregistration is required.

ST. JOHN'S PREPARATORY SCHOOL

21-21 Crescent St., Astoria Website: stjohnsprepschool.org admissions@stjohnsprepschool.org (718) 721-7200

Sat., Oct. 18, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

THE MARY LOUIS ACADEMY

176-21 Wexford Terrace, Jamaica Estates Website: tmla.org admissions@tmla.org (718) 297-2120, ext. 233 Sun., Oct. 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Note: All high school open house dates are subject to change.

Facts about the TACHS

The The Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools (TACHS) will test eighth grade students who are interested in attending a Catholic high school beginning in September 2026. In order to be admitted into Catholic high schools, students must take an admissions examination in November 2025. The results from that examination, along with school records and other information, are then sent to the high school principals to assist them in making admission decisions. Each student’s information will be sent to three high schools of his/her choice. Results also will be sent to the Catholic elementary schools within the Archdiocese of New York, the Diocese of Brooklyn/ Queens, or the Diocese of Rockville Centre (Long Island).

ACADEMIC SKILLS TESTED

The TACHS measures academic achievement in reading, written expression and mathematics, along with general reasoning skills. The test has been developed with the advice and approval of diocesan representatives.

EXAMINATION FEE

A nonrefundable examination fee of $71.00 will include an online Student Handbook, online test materials and the reporting of scores to three high schools of a student’s choice. Duplicate registrations may result in a processing fee.

TEST CANDIDATES

The TACHS is for current eighth-grade students only. Students wishing to apply to a Catholic high school for a grade other than the ninth grade should apply directly to that high school. A student may take the TACHS examination only once.

PARENT/GUARDIAN REPORTS

A Home Report can be accessed online at tachsinfo.com after 3 p.m. EST on Jan. 23, 2026. All TACHS test results are final. No reviewing, rescoring or retesting will be done.

SPECIAL TEST ACCOMMODATIONS FOR STUDENTS

The only accommodation allowed will be extended testing time (time and a half). An Eligibility Form and further instructions for students needing extended testing time are located on page 5 of the handbook.

If a student is not approved for extended testing time, the student may choose to take the exam without extended time or request a full refund of the $71 examination fee. Refund requests for these students must be received by Oct. 29, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. EST. Q — info courtesy tachsinfo.com

OPEN HOUSE

Saturday, October 18th

11am-3:30pm

Council candidate posting fake stories Claims nonexistent endorsements, of himself and by rival

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

The Republican candidate for City Council in Central Queens District 29 is posting images of false news stories on his social media pages, including one purporting to be from the Queens Chronicle.

The images, appearing on Instagram and elsewhere, claim to report on endorsements the candidate never received, or ones that his opponent, incumbent Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills), never made. Some are made to appear as if they are from the New York Post, amNewYork, the Queens Daily Eagle, the Associated Press and other outlets, as well as the Chronicle.

man has endorsed state Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) for mayor. That is false. Schulman backed former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the Democratic primary and has made no endorsement in the general election.

“Lies, deceit and misinformation have no place in our community,” Schulman said in a statement, averring that her opponent is lying and creating fake news to divide people.

The candidate, Jonathan Rinaldi, claimed Tuesday morning, after a version of this article appeared online, that his Instagram account had been hacked and he has no access to it. Asked whether he would remove the false Chronicle item once he regained access to the account, he refused to answer, saying, “I reject your premise.”

He said he is the one being targeted with fake news because he is standing up to the establishment. He also claimed one of the endorsements alleged on his Instagram page is real, but the head of the organization he cited told the Chronicle otherwise.

Several of the images, including the one mimicking this paper’s website, claim Schul-

Free small-biz help Oct. 16

All are invited to a free, multilingual small-business resource session the Queens Chamber of Commerce, Accompany Capital and the office of City Councilman Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) are hosting at the Jackson Heights Library on Thursday, Oct. 16.

Meant to help people start, improve and grow businesses, the event will run from 4 to 6 p.m. Attendees will get to meet and greet representatives from the chamber and Accompany Capital, which provides credit and services to underserved businesses; along with various other entities, including the U.S. Small Business Administration, the nonprofit lender Ascendus, the city Department of Veterans’ Services, the U.S. Department of Labor (specifically, its Wage and Hour Division), the 82nd Street Partnership and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s NYC office.

The library is at 35-51 81 St. and can be reached at (718) 899-2500. The chamber is at (718) 898-8500, and one may register at queenschamber.org/events.

Another event with some similar elements will be held at the chamber’s offices Oct. 22. Q

— Peter C. Mastrosimone

“Any person who would stoop to creating and publicizing fake news and AI videos to divide the community is wholly unfit to serve in elected office.”

One fake item claims Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi (D-Forest Hills), a Schulman ally, endorsed Rinaldi. The false article supposedly came from the Queens Daily Eagle.

“It’s a fake image of the logo for the Queens Daily Eagle,” Publisher Michael Nussbaum said via email. “We never published the story.”

“This is disinformation — it’s completely false and disgusting — but it’s what we’ve come to expect from Mr. Rinaldi and his campaign,” Hevesi told the Chronicle in an email. “Respecting the voters means telling the truth and rejecting reckless and desperate attempts for attention. Mr. Rinaldi, with his history of lies, harassment, and misinformation, is wholly

unfit to represent our constituents at any level of government.”

Another false story, one that appears to be from the AP, claims that mayoral hopeful Cuomo had endorsed Rinaldi. Cuomo spokesman Rich Azzopardi confirmed it is fake.

“Yeah. I don’t know who that is,” Azzopardi said over email about Rinaldi.

“Thank you for checking,” AP spokesman Patrick Maks said. “This is not an AP story.”

Yet another fake Cuomo endorsement claim is made to look like an amNewYork story.

One false item, not attributed to any news outlet but appearing like a campaign poster, is a purported endorsement of Rinaldi from the Teachers for Choice advocacy group. That is the one he told the Chronicle was genuine.

“No, it is not real,” Teachers for Choice founder Michael Kane already had said via email. “We have not endorsed Rinaldi. It is very upsetting that he would use our name in a dishonest manner like this. Now there is no way we will consider endorsing him.”

Other images claim Parent Leaders for Accelerated Curriculum and Education and the Asian Wave Alliance are backing Rinaldi. Officials with both groups confirmed that is false, with PLACE saying it is “disturbed” by the lengths to which he would go to win.

Late Monday night, a new post went up, falsely using the New York Amsterdam News

Disability advocates win MTA court ruling

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Accessibility advocates are hailing a unanimous ruling last week by the New York State Supreme Court’s Appellate Division in a lawsuit against the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and New York City Transit over discounts in the city’s Accesss-a-Ride program.

Five plaintiffs are claiming that the MTA discriminates against them under state law by denying Access-a-Ride users discounts similar to those offered to bus and subway riders, such as half-fares for seniors and people with disabilities, as well as seven-and 30-day unlimited fare programs.

The five-page decision states that the MTA has motioned to dismiss the case on the grounds that if the claim is successful it will “upset the balance struck by federal law in consideration of the higher cost per ride for providing paratransit service.”

The MTA also stated federal law would permit it to charge twice as much as it does now.

But the Appellate Division upheld the

lower court’s denial of a motion to dismiss.

“Access-A-Ride users, most of whom are of limited means, rely on Access-ARide to travel to their jobs, schools, and medical appointments, and to visit with friends and family,” says Christopher Schuyler, managing attorney with the Disability Justice Program at New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, in a press release. NYLPI is one of the groups handling the case for the plaintiffs. “Extending these discounts — the very same discounts available to subway and bus riders — to Access-A-Ride will mean a real difference in the lives of people with disabilities who use Access-A-Ride.”

“It’s not fair that the MTA offers these discounts to subway and bus riders and not to Access-A-Ride users,” plaintiff Sheila Murray said. “We rely on the MTA to get us around just the same as other mass transit riders, and we shouldn’t be paying more. The MTA needs to end this discrimination against Access-A-Ride users immediately.”

The MTA in an email declined to comment as the litigation is pending. Q

banner and claiming police had spoken with Schulman about Rinaldi’s account being hacked. There is no truth to the tale.

“It is phony; we ran no such story,” Madison J. Gray, the Amsterdam News executive editor, told the Chronicle over the phone. “We don’t know who this person is.”

He added, “That phony stories are being used with our logos and branding is a serious matter,” and said the paper will be contacting Instagram to get the post removed.

As of Wednesday, when the Chronicle went to press, all the offending posts remained.

The newest one was a campaign poster saying to “re-elect” Rinaldi, who holds no office.

Last year, when Rinaldi ran for Assembly against Hevesi, he was arrested at a polling place on Election Day for alleged harassment. He said the case was dismissed, and the Queens District Attorney’s Office said on Monday there were no public records on it available, which is consistent with dismissal. He previously had been charged with trespassing, and told City & State in 2023 that two summonses for that also were dismissed.

The Queens Republican chairman, Tony Nunziato, and Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), the GOP caucus leader and former county chair, both disavow Rinaldi.

“It’s terrible what he’s doing, the way he smears the Republican Party,” Nunziato said. Q

Schulman D29

continued from page 26

Melinda Katz.

“I’m hoping it’s a blip, so I’ll continue to work with her office and law enforcement to get those numbers down,” Schulman said. The NYPD’s new Q-teams, which launched across Queens in August to tackle quality-of-life issues, also have been “very helpful,” she said.

As Forest Hills Stadium’s concert season went on, she worked with law enforcement and other city agencies to resolve noise complaints.

“This is an important economic engine for the community, but at the same time, we want to make sure that we resolve issues that the residents have,” she said.

Schulman said she is especially proud of her office’s constituent services, which she said are “the bread and butter of any elected official.”

She also sits on the Education Committee and said she is happy about bringing more music and art into schools. She has attended performances at various schools in her district, and it has been “amazing” to see the joy on kids’ faces.

“Kids only get one chance at a good education, and that good education involves a number of different things,” Schulman said. “It’s not just learning the basics, but being exposed to all kinds of things like art and music.”

Election Day is Nov. 4. Q

October 9, 2025

ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING

Yor k ers of all are called to get d h h f l h

New Yorkers of all ages are called to get acquainted with the unfamiliar in the city they call home from Oct. 17 to 19.

The annual Open House New York Weekend festival will once again unlock hundreds of locations across the city for curious minds to explore. From iconic historical sites to idyllic open spaces to infrastructure facilities you didn’t know you were curious about, the neighborhood gems participating in the event are bound to show you something new.

“We always want to highlight places that have some kind of architectural, cultural, historic or civic significance, and the lineup really reflects the diversity and dynamism of the city,” OHNY Executive Director

Kristin LaBuz said. In Queens alone, LaBuz continued, one can experience anything from paddling in the East River to visiting a historic Hindu temple.

one can any thing from in the East River to a historic Hindu l h h f k

“It truly is showcasing the variety of New York’s built environment,” she said.

Some OHNY Weekend sites are ticketed for space and security, and LaBuz said many have already sold out. But 18 locations in Queens will be open for free drop-in visits.

Information is at ohny.org. Tickets are $7 for locations that require them, or free for projects of city agencies. Not every site is open every day of the festival.

Many locations are longtime participants. Included among them is Flushing’s Lewis Latimer House, where the inventor and son of self-emancipated, formerly

enslaved parents resided.

enslaved resided

“I think that is a comp LaBuz said. “And at this histor h d k

“I think that is a really compelling piece of history,” LaBuz said. “And at this historic house, they’re bringing it into the present and making it family-friendly for OHNY Weekend. They’re going to be doing a video activation that will be a lot of fun for kids.” The house will be open for drop-in visits Oct. 18 and 19 from noon to 4 p.m.

Flushing’s Voelker Orth Museum, Bird Sanctuary and Victorian Garden, the 19th-century residence of a German immigrant family for three generations, will offer ongoing tours from 12 to 4 p.m. Oct. 19. The house will provide garden discovery activity guides for kids.

One also can tour Bayside’s Civil War-era waterfront

continued on page 33

King Crossword Puzzle

Dodger Furillo played hardball out of Whitestone

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Carl Anthony Furillo was born on March 8, 1922 in Stoney Creek Mills, Pa., the youngest of six children born to Italian immigrants Michael and Filomena (Minnie) Furillo. Carl left school after eighth grade and, with a powerful and accurate throwing arm, decided to become a professional baseball player.

After earning a Purple Heart in World War II, he made the major leagues with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1946. He married Fern Reichart in July 1948, and they had two sons.

Furillo played his entire carrier with the Dodgers and was a star for several years. He was hurt in May 1960 and released while injured. It was the era before free agency, when players were property and lawsuits against a team were rare due to the “reserve clause,” making legal challenges highly risky. But Furillo sued and won over $21,000. His case prompted his being blacklisted and frozen out of baseball, though the commissioner denied it.

Living at 142-02 20 Ave. in Whitestone, he opened up a delicatessen a few minutes

away, at 32nd Avenue and Union Street in Flushing, called Furillo & Totto.

He sold out after seven years and went to work for Otis Elevators, installing them in The World Trade Center.

When the buildings were completed, Furillo returned to his hometown in Pennsylvania. He passed away on Jan. 21, 1989, at age 66, resolving his bitterness for the sport before he died. Q

The home of Dodgers right fielder Carl Furillo at 142-02 20 Ave. in Whitestone, as it looked in the 1950s and 1960s when he lived there.

Swing with Something Special at QPAC Oct. 12

by Mark Lord qboro contributor

Phil Costa has been a teacher in the biology department at Queensborough Community College for 45 years, but on Oct. 12, he will be making a very different kind of appearance on campus.

As leader of the Something Special Big Band, he will take the stage at the Queensborough Performing Arts Center, bringing the swinging sounds of Count Basie, Doc Severinsen, and other musical artists back to life, taking the original arrangements and adding a contemporary feel to them.

“I love the place,” Costa said in a recent phone interview, adding that he is delighted to be bringing the band to the college, where he serves as an adjunct professor.

Costa said he formed the band back in 1993. Since then, the group of nearly two dozen musicians, including many full-time professionals, has appeared throughout Queens and Long Island, everywhere from street fairs and libraries to parks and concert halls.

Costa recalled that when he was 8 or 9 years old, his uncle, a professional trumpet player, offered to teach him how to play the instrument. But he had been led to believe that “music is for sissies,” so he turned his uncle down.

When he got to high school, he decided to join the band, picking up — what else? — the trumpet, his instrument of choice to this day.

Early in his career, he played weddings and other social events, but “deejays broke the spine of live music,” leaving Costa with few opportunities to perform.

When he began to teach at QCC, he found out that the college, which had an orchestra and chorus, had no stage band. Word of his interest in starting one led to an offer of a music studio on campus in which to hold rehearsals.

“We had the perfect marriage,” Costa said.

Nowadays, the band, which includes five saxophones, four trombones, four trumpets, and a full rhythm section, rehearses at a junior high school in Roslyn, LI. Costa pointed out that “we don’t do it for the money. We do it for ourselves.”

Basie’s band has long been one of Costa’s favorites, prompting Costa to refer to the late musician as “one of the Apostles.”

He is particularly proud that at the upcoming concert, the band will be playing some of the original Basie arrangements, which

were offered to Costa years ago by Basie’s successor, saxophone player Frank Foster.

The concert will feature two vocalists, including Julie Lyon, who will perform an original song by Foster, “Bring on the Raindrops.” Also on the bill is Dave Russel, who will sing several songs popularized by jazz great Joe Williams, among them “Teach Me Tonight” and “Everyday I Have the Blues.”

The Something Special Big Band show is set for Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. at QPAC, located at 222-05 56 Ave. in Bayside. Tickets are $35 to $50. For more information, call (718) 631-6311 or visit qpac.qcc.cuny.edu. Q

Queens gems unlocked at Open House festival

continued from page 31

stronghold, Fort Totten, Oct. 18 and 19. A historic buildings tour will highlight the site’s role in the city’s defense history, and from 1 to 3 p.m., guests can explore the fort’s Water Battery itself.

LaBuz said the Hindu Temple Society of North America, which became the continent’s first Hindu temple in 1977, has been participating since the event started in 2003. It will again open its doors from 10

Crossword Answers

a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 17, 18 and 19.

More recently constructed sites also will welcome visitors for OHNY Weekend. Folks of all ages are welcome to experience the first-ever outdoor steel wall squash court in Maspeth, which opened in 2020.

Those who wear athletic shoes on Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. may try their hand at the racquet sport themselves, and those who would rather sit on the sidelines can watch the pros.

Astoria’s Museum of the Moving Image also will make its OHNY Weekend debut — guests who mention the festival at the door will receive free admission from 4 to 8 p.m. Oct. 17. Visitors can walk through the vast array of film, television and digital media artifacts on self-guided tours.

Queens is home to some real hotspots — tours of the Astoria Park pool, the largest in the city and a new addition to the festival, sold out “in a heartbeat,” LaBuz said. Tickets to learn how street signs are made at the city Department of Transportation’s Maspeth shop were gone in less than five minutes. All the sites will make an impression.

“I hope folks take away a renewed

History buffs can explore Flushing’s Voelker Orth Museum during Open House New York Weekend. On the cover: The Urban Park Rangers will lead a walk through Fort Totten’s Water Battery, a Civil War fortress. PHOTOS COURTESY VOELKER ORTH

appreciation for New York City, both for the places that define our everyday experience and the people whose talent and generosity make the city run,” LaBuz said.

She said she also hopes people take

OHNY Weekend as a “permission slip” to be curious and explore something new.

“If you are going out to Queens for OHNY Weekend, make sure you eat something delicious,” LaBuz said. Q

Phil Costa & the Something Special Big Band, with its leader on the trumpet and waving hello. COURTESY PHOTOS

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Legal Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK

NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-AR25, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-AR25, -against- BIBI GOPAUL ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on February 11, 2020, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDX MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-AR25, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-AR25 is the Plaintiff and BIBI GOPAUL ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 10/24/2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 9339 205TH STREET, HOLLIS, New York 11423; and the following tax map identification, -10480-29. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUTATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 722933/2021. Everett Hopkins, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF GCAT 2021-NQM7 TRUST, Plaintiff against NINA RIENZI, 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 April 4, 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 November 7, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 34-11 29th Street, Long Island City, NY 11106. Sec 4 Block 585 Lot 24. 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 $1,294,298.19 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 700029/2023. 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. Martha Taylor, Esq., Referee File # 3000-001443

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premises Food & BeverageBusiness Liquor License, NYS Application ID NA-0370-25-131198 has been applied for by OTG JFK T5 Venture II, LLC serving beer, wine, cider, mead and liquor to be sold at retail for on-premises consumption in a Food & Beverage BusinessLiquor establishment located at JFK International Airport, Terminal 5 Space 7NC, Jamaica, NY 11430.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR GSAA HOME EQUITY TRUST 2006-2, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, -against- AKILI PARRIS ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on June 9, 2025, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR GSAA HOME EQUITY TRUST 2006-2, ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES is the Plaintiff and AKILI PARRIS ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 10/24/2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 14202 174TH STREET, JAMAICA, New York 11434; and the following tax map identification, -12591-248. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDING AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK, Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 703182/2020. Amy J Barrett, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Notice of Formation of ARAL SIMTECH LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/07/2025. 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: AGA ARCEDO, 40-15 81ST ST, APT B12, ELMHURST, NY 11373. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, -against- JACQUELYN GRANT A/K/A JACQUELYN G. JOHNSON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF VESTA COUCH, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on June 5, 2025, wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and JACQUELYN GRANT A/K/A JACQUELYN G. JOHNSON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF VESTA COUCH;, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 11/07/2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 19130 113TH AVENUE, SAINT ALBANS, New York 11412; and the following tax map identification, -10987-19. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK, Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 701783/2022. Lois Marie Vitti, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Notice of Formation of ECO AIRE, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/03/2025. 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: YVONNE WHITTER, 104-09 209 STREET, QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11429. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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Open House

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

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

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Your PERFECT Tenant is looking for long term rental starting Nov 1st! Mature single woman, working days as a live-out nanny, looking for a place for herself, preferably a 2 BR or large 1 BR apt, in safe, quiet neighborhood in Brooklyn or Queens, close to transportation, rent stabilized would be ideal. Call 917-822-9687

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Notice of Formation of 22-24 99TH STREET 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: THE LLC, 106-20 31ST AVENUE, EAST ELMHURST, NY 11369. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of 23-39 98TH STREET LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/16/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 106-20 31ST AVENUE, EAST ELMHURST, NY 11369. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

24-32 27TH STREET LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/30/25. 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, 24-32 27th Street, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

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.

Notice of Formation of 94-50 MERRICK BLVD. LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/11/2025. 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: 94-50 MERRICK BLVD. LLC, 94-02 150TH ST., JAMAICA, NY 11435. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Jobe Park Edge LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State (SSNY) on 9/8/25. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o Jobe Development Corp., 115-15 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11434. Purpose: any lawful activity.

K NAIL STUDIO LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/19/25. 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, 12816 23rd Ave, College Point, NY 11356. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of KK MANAGEMNET NY LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/10/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: KK MANAGEMENT NY LLC, 40-51 61ST STREET, WOODSIDE, NY 11377. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY.

NAME: MR 2 REALTY, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/18/2025, 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 the process to the LLC, 44-06 31st Avenue, Astoria, NY, 11103. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of NIKI NIXX GLOBAL LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/29/2025. 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: NORTHWEST REGISTERED AGENT LLC, 418 BROADWAY, STE N, ALBANY, NY 12207. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, -against- SHERRIE FOOTMAN AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM CHATSON, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on June 27, 2025, wherein MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC is the Plaintiff and SHERRIE FOOTMAN AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM CHATSON, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 10/24/2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 15029 YATES ROAD , JAMAICA, New York 11433; and the following tax map identification, -10131-50. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 718726/2018. Fearonce G. LaLande, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Notice of Formation of Reem New York LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/10/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: 44-70 21ST STREET, #3119, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

DIVISION OF FERRIES INVITATION FOR BIDS

Vehicle Access Ramps and Nose Racks

The New York City Department of Transportation Staten Island Ferry cordially invites your company to submit bids for the following contract: EPIN: 84125B0009 - Vehicle Access Ramps and Nose Racks (Specifications), to be available for download free of charge starting October 7, 2025. from the City Record Website at City Record On-Line (https://a856-cityrec ord.nyc.gov/).

Hard copies of the Specification Books and the Drawings will not be available at Bid Window for purchase.

This RFX will be released through PASSPort, New York City’s online procurement portal. Responses to this RFP/RFx must be submitted via PASSPort. To access the RFP/RFx, vendors should visit the PASSPort Public Portal. To reach the Public Portal, visit the following site: https://www.nyc.gov/site/ mocs/passport/about-passport.page then click on the rectangle captioned “Procurement Navigator,” whereupon you will arrive at the Portal. To quickly locate the RFP/RFx, insert the following EPIN: 84125B0009, into the Keyword search field, then click search. To respond to the RFP/RFx, vendors must create an account within the PASSPort system if they have not already done so.

A non-mandatory Pre-Bid Conference via TEAMS is scheduled for October 20, 2025 at 10:00AM. This Procurement is subject to Federal or State law participation requirements for MBEs (Minority Business enterprises), WBEs (Women-Owned Business enterprise), Disadvantaged Business Enterprise and/or EBEs (Emerging Business Enterprise). The DBE Goal of 8%.

Site Visit (Optional) on October 22, 2025, Time: 10:00 am. Site Visit Location: New York City Department of Transportation, Staten Island Ferry Maintenance Facility/ Conference Room 1 Bay Street, Staten Island, NY 10301.

Any inquiries concerning this IFB should be directed by email to the agency authorized representative below. Responses to this IFB must be submitted via PASSPort. All Bids must be received via Passport before the Bid Due Date December 3, 2025 no later than 11:00 AM.

Virtual Bid Opening will be conducted via Zoom Webinar on December 3, 2025 at 11:30AM. Bids will be opened virtually via Zoom Webinar only.

Zoom Webinar Link For the Bid Opening:

Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android: https://zoom.us/j/98255246802?pwd=aIFYyKM4imZKHiErQPmY8TmMmfL2e8.1

Passcode:648437

Phone one-tap:

+16465189805,,98255246802# US (New York)

+19292056099,,98255246802# US (New York)

Join via audio:

+1 646 518 9805 US (New York)

+1 929 205 6099 US (New York)

Webinar ID: 982 5524 6802

International numbers available: https://zoom.us/u/aizxvnXkh

Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting scheduled for October 20, 2025, Time: 10:00 AM

Microsoft Teams

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 269 449 926 008 4

Passcode: ZK949rV7

Dial in by phone

+1 607-442-6732,,374820517# United States, Elmira

Find a local number

Phone conference ID: 374 820 517#

All questions shall be submitted via email to the designated person indicated below. Deadline for submission of questions is October 27, 2025

Agency Authorized Representative Josiane Destra-Louis

Contract Manager

Finance, Contracts & Program Management

New York City Department of Transportation

55 Water Street, 8th Floor, New York, New York 10041

Telephone No. 212-839-9405, Fax No. 212-839-4241

Email: jdestra-louis@dot.nyc.gov

Eric Adams, Mayor

Ydanis Rodriguez, Commissioner

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Queens County. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR THE RMAC TRUST, SERIES 2016-CTT, Plaintiff, -against- 127-07 SUTTER AVE, LLC; CHARLES CURTIS, AS PURPORTED ADMINISTRATOR AND HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF OLGA CURTIS; YVETTE CURTIS, SANDRA VANWHERVIN, CAROL VANWHERVIN, PHYLLIS VANWHERVIN, WAYNE VANWHERVIN, STEPHEN VANWHERVIN AND ROY ANTHONY VANWHERVIN, AS HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF OLGA CURTIS; UNKNOWN HEIRS-AT- LAW, NEXT-OFKIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS OR PARTIES HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENTS DALTON VANWHERVIN A/KIA DALTON VANWHERVIN, JR., AND ROBERT VANWHERVIN, BY PURCHASE,INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN; DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK ACTING BY AND THROUGH THE COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SERVICES OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK; HILLSIDE MANOR RECC; CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK (QUEENS); NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT); “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10” inclusive, the names of the ten last name Defendants being fictitious, real names unknown to the Plaintiff, the parties intended being persons or corporations having an interest in, or tenants or persons in possession of, portions of the m01tgaged premises described in the Complaint,, Defendants Index No. 709202/2024. Mortgaged Premises: 115-71 229th Street, Cambria Heights, NY 11411 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above-entitled action is to foreclose a mortgage bearing date July 23, 2004, given by Olga Curtis (deceased) to BNY Mortgage Company, LLC to secure the sum of $290,319.00 and recorded in CRFN2005000241992 in the office of the County Clerk/City Register of Queens County on April 26, 2005 and which mortgage was ultimately assigned to the Plaintiff herein as evidenced by written instrument dated July 12, 2017 and recorded with the Queens County Clerk/City Register on April 26, 2005 and which mortgage was ultimately assigned to the Plaintiff herein as evidenced by written instrument dated July 12, 2017 and recorded with the Queens County Clerk/City Register on August 14, 2017 in CRFN2017000300891 covering the premises described as follows 115-71 229TH STREET, CAMBRIAHEIGHTS,NY11411 The relief sought in the within action includes a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage. Plaintiff makes no personal claims against any defendants herein. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Queens Action To Foreclose A Mortgage Index #: 719761/2019 Nationstar Mortgage LLC D/B/A Mr. Cooper Plaintiff, vs GERALDYNE RENE AKA GERALDYNE DAUTRUCHE, EVELYNE JEAN-LOUIS AKA EVELYNE JEAN LOUIS, MARINA JASMIN FELIX, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING THROUGH THE IRS, OCWEN LOAN SERVICING, LLC Successor By Merger To Delta Funding Corporation, City Register Of The City Of New York, Queens County, Sonia E. Felix As Heir To The Estate Of Julio Felix, “John Doe”, Unknown Heirs Of Julio Felix Aka Julio Felix Guenard If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 194-09 109TH AVENUE Queens, NY 11412 AKA 194-09 109TH Avenue, ST. Albans, NY 11412 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Queens. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Julio Felix AKA Julio Felix Guenard Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Alan Schiff of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Fourth day of September, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Jamaica. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below dated June 15, 2002, executed by Geraldyne Rene AKA Geraldyne Dautruche and Evelyne Jean-Louis AKA Evelyne Jean Louis to secure the sum of $268,800.00. The Mortgage was recorded at Book 6490, Page 204 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on July 23, 2002. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 20, 2006 and recorded on November 20, 2006, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2006000643314. Plaintiff is also holder of a mortgage dated October 6, 2006 executed by Geraldyne Rene AKA Geraldyne Dautruche by the attorney in fact and Evelyne Jean-Louis AKA Evelyne Jean Louis to secure the sum of $190,419.82 and recorded at CRFN 2006000643315 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on November 20, 2006. Said mortgage was consolidated with the mortgage referred to at Book 6490, Page 204 by a Consolidation, Extension and Modification Agreement executed by Geraldyne Rene AKA Geraldyne Dautruche by the attorney in fact and Evelyne Jean-Louis AKA Evelyne Jean Louis dated October 6, 2006 and recorded November 20, 2006 at CRFN 2006000643316 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County to form a single lien in the amount of $442,500.00. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed May 22, 2014 and recorded on June 3, 2014, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2014000189988. The mortgage was subsequently modified on October 22, 2014. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 12, 2016 and recorded on January 4, 2017, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2017000003391. The property in question is described as follows: 194-09 109TH AVENUE, QUEENS, NY 11412 AKA 194-09 109TH AVENUE, ST. ALBANS, NY 11412 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The state encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1-800-269-0990 or visit the department’s website at WWW.DFS.NY.GOV. RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303 NOTICE NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: September 9, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 87322

See lights go up on Steinway

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards led a press conference last Friday on Steinway Street between 30th and 31st avenues to announce $1 million in new capital funding for improvements along the Astoria thoroughfare.

The event was held at the mid-block crossing between 30th and 31st avenues. The funds will go toward the installation of decorative lighting along Steinway from 30th to 34th avenues.

Celebrating here with Richards, center right, are his budget director, Irak Cehonski, left; the journalist, educator and street

safety advocate John Surico, founder of the 31st Avenue Open Street; Community Board 1 Chairwoman Evie Hantzopoulous; Richards’ transportation and parks liaison, Laura Shepard; CB 1 District Manager Florence Koulouris; Central Astoria Local Development Coalition Executive Director Marie Torniali and LDC Executive Vice President Tony Barsamian.

The work is part of Richards’ “ongoing mission to holistically strengthen and beautify Queens’ major commercial corridors” and will complement prior upgrades to Steinway, his office said. — Peter C. Mastrosimone

B SPORTS EAT

The post-mortem begins

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

The Mets began their mea culpas for a shockingly disappointing season last Monday, the first day of their unplanned off-season.

Team owner Steve Cohen crafted a public apology to the Flushing faithful for the team’s failures in 2025. Cohen had complained vociferously in the past about Mets fans failing to attend games despite the millions of dollars in player personnel payroll he had committed. Cohen thanked the fans who bought nearly 3.2 million tickets for Mets games in 2025. He said the fans did their part, but the team failed to live up to expectations, and that was unacceptable.

Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns held a press conference last week. He took responsibility for the team’s dreary performance from mid-June through September.

He should have tipped his hat to his counterpart 100 miles southwest of Queens. Phillies President Dave Dombrowski outmaneuvered Stearns at the July 31 trade deadline. Whereas Dombrowski’s pickups helped the Phillies clinch the National League East title, Stearns admitted in the final week of the season that his deals badly backfired.

The one piece of concrete information Stearns revealed in his Monday presser was that while Manager Carlos Mendoza would be

returning for 2026, the ax would be falling on most of Mendoza’s staff, and on Friday, the favored day of the week for companies delivering bad news, the Mets announced that bench coach John Gibbons, hitting coaches Eric Chavez and Jeremy Barnes, and pitching coach Jeremy Hefner had all been given pink slips.

While Pete Alonso, Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo all posted impressive stats this season, the team badly struggled with runners in scoring position. The fact that the Mets were the only team in baseball to never win a game when trailing in the eighth inning (they had an unfathomable 0-70 record) sealed the fates of Chavez and Barnes.

Hefner was the Mets’ answer to the late USSR politician Andrei Gromyko. Just as Gromyko held positions of power from Stalin to Gorbachev, Hefner served under three managers: Luis Rojas, Buck Showalter and Mendoza. He did not have it easy in 2025 because of injuries, along with difficult assignments such as converting reliever Clay Holmes into a starter, which was successful. However, Frankie Montas and Kodai Senga were disasters, as was David Peterson’s marked second-half drop-off. Hefner is highly regarded and should be hired soon by another team. Q

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