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

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER VOL. XLIX

NO. 44

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2026

QCHRON.COM

GOODBYE TO GRIDLOCK

DETOURS AHEAD

GET A ‘CLUE’!

Van Wyck work nearly complete

Signal upgrades bring service suspension

Don’t miss your turn to see the game played out onstage

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qboro PAGE 31

LIGHT THE WAY Diwali Motorcade illuminates Richmond Hill

PHOTO BY ANDREW KARPAN

PAGE 14

Hundreds of community members awash in vibrant colors and traditional clothing lined the streets of Little Guyana in Richmond Hill on Oct. 24 for the annual Diwali Motorcade, celebrating the Hindu festival of lights.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 2

HOV lanes open on the Van Wyck Yearslong project reaches milestone, but some rehab work still ongoing by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

or Queens drivers, the Van Wyck Expressway has long meant two things: traffic and construction. Now, after years of work along the busy corridor, a major $1.4 billion overhaul has reached a new milestone, with high-occupancy vehicle lanes opening between the Kew Gardens Interchange and John F. Kennedy Air por t, the Gover nor’s Off ice announced Oct. 23. The new lanes are available to buses, taxis, for-hire vehicles and private cars with at least one passenger. They are intended to improve travel times to and from JFK while easing congestion along the heavily traveled Queens corridor. Overseen by the state Department of Transportation, the project began in 2020 and involved three phases of construction along a 4.3-mile stretch of the expressway, according to Gov. Hochul’s office. The $342 million first phase, which was completed in 2023, rehabilitated or replaced nine overpasses that carry traffic over the expressway. The $318 million second phase, which began in 2021, replaced and improved four bridges, signal equipment, power infrastructure and drainage systems. The Atlantic

Construction is complete on the new high-occupancy vehicle lanes on the Van Wyck Expressway, Gov. Hochul announced Oct. 23. PHOTO COURTESY NYS DOT Avenue bridge was replaced, and the northbound and southbound Expressway service roads between Archer Avenue and Atlantic Avenue were reconstructed. As part of the third phase, in addition to the new HOV lanes, the highway geometry was reconfigured to provide longer entrance and exit ramps meant to prevent queueing on the highway and reduce weaving, accord-

ing to the state. A $135 million double-barrel sewer segment, constructed in partnership with the city Department of Environmental Protection, was also built to help address chronic flooding in southeast Queens. The project is not entirely finished. Rehabilitation of nearby service roads is expected to wrap up later this year.

“Navigating the Van Wyck Expressway to get to and from JFK has all too often been a test of endurance for motorists regardless of the time of day, but that all changes now,” Hochul said. “These new lanes for high-occupancy vehicles are among several enhancements that will remove the headaches that have long been associated with travel on this busy highway and help ensure that travelers headed to and from JFK get where they need to go hassle-free.” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. in a statement said, “There is no artery in Queens more vital — and historically no worse traffic nightmare for drivers — than the Van Wyck Expressway.” He added, “It is impossible to overstate just how transformative the completion of our $1.4 billion overhaul of the Van Wyck is for countless Queens commuters and for the tens of millions of travelers who fly in and out of JFK Airport each year.” State Sen. James Sanders Jr. (D-South Ozone Park) said he’s glad to see what he called a historic investment deliver relief and said, “My hope is that these new HOV lanes will provide faster, more reliable travel to JFK Airport, encourage public transit, and significantly ease congestion along this Q vital Queens corridor.”

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Straight As for MTA signal modernization Agency replacing A, C line relics with communication-based train control by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Shuttle buses will replace A train service in Queens for nine days beginning Saturday, Nov. 7, as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority replaces signals and switches dating back to the 1930s. The work will be the first phase of a $1.9 billion project to bring communication-based train control technology to 42 track miles on the A and C lines between the Ozone ParkLefferts Boulevard station and High Street station in Brooklyn. From 12:30 a.m. Nov. 7 until 5 a.m. Monday, Nov. 16, A trains will not operate between the Rockaway Blvd and Ozone Park-Lefferts Blvd stations. Those trains will instead operate between Rockaway Blvd and Howard BeachJFK Airport. Overnight Lefferts shuttle service between the Lefferts Blvd and Euclid Ave stations will be suspended. In a video of an Oct. 22 press conference in Ozone Park, Jamie Torres-Springer, president of construction & development for the MTA, said it is the largest signalization project in the agency’s history. Janno Lieber, chairman and CEO of the MTA, said the lines serve 350,000 riders a day. “That is more than the entire population of Pittsburgh,” the chairman said. The entire project is scheduled to be completed in the second quarter of 2032. Lieber also said signal problems are the single largest cause of delays in the system by a wide margin. “We’re saying goodbye to these 1930s signals,” he said. “It’s time to send those relics to

Rockaway Boulevard will be the short-term Queens terminus of the A train with nine days of major upgrades to begin Nov. 7. PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON the Transit Museum and actually install communication-based train control.” Lieber said that will allow the agency to run more trains closer together and more safely. He said the installation of CBTC on the 7 and L lines has resulted in some of the highest rates of satisfaction in the system. “Soon, God willing, the A and C trains won’t be far behind,” he added. Asked why more could not be done overnight and on weekends to ease station closings, Lieber said some aspects of the work — including replacing 250 feet of track and literally having to destroy a pair of ancient switches in order

to replace them — do not lend themselves to keeping the stations open during construction. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. was excited. “We’re finally seeing the kind of investment and monetization in our infrastructure that we’ve always deserved,” Richards said. “As a recovering A train rider here in Queens, that means we’re finally getting CBTC on our lines.” In a subsequent press release, the MTA listed service changes and street detours. For service to Lefferts Boulevard, shuttle buses will stop at the 93 St/Liberty Avenue, continued on page 8

Jamie Torres-Springer of MTA Construction & Development, left, Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber and Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. discuss A train upgrades coming to Queens. SCREENSHOT VIA MTA VIDEO / YOUTUBE

More than 260 vessels removed from the bay Ariola and other officials celebrate feat of boat surrendering program by Kristen Guglielmo For the latest news visit qchron.com

Editor

The city Parks Department’s Office of Marine Debris Disposal and Vessel Surrendering has removed more than 260 vessels from the waters of Jamaica Bay, according to Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Howard Beach, and more than 600 from the city’s waterways in total. To celebrate the feat, Ariola gathered with Parks officials and Jamaica Bay advocates, including Roger Gendron of the New Hamilton Beach Civic Association and Dan Mundy Jr. of the Jamaica Bay Ecowatchers, in Broad Channel to observe as three surrendered vessels were removed from the waters of Jamaica Bay on Tuesday. The Office of Marine Debris Disposal and Vessel Surrendering was established as a result of a City Coun-

cil bill, introduced by Ariola, that passed in 2022. The office has a vessel turn-in program, through which residents can surrender their unwanted boats instead of leaving them on the shoreline, which Parks has said can pose serious risks to navigation, public safety and property. The program is free, though vessel owners are responsible for all outstanding debts owed. More information is available at nycgovparks.org/ facilities/boating/vtip. Ariola, in a post on social media, wrote, “The creation of this office is one of my proudest accomplishments as a legislator. .... This is an absolutely incredible milestone, and I would like to thank everyone who played a part in making this happen. Together, we are creating a cleaner, healthier bay for Q future generations to enjoy.”

Councilmember Joann Ariola, center, along with city Parks Department officials and Jamaica Bay advocates, watched as Parks’ Office of Marine Debris Disposal and Vessel Surrendering removed three boats from the bay on Tuesday. PHOTOS VIA NYC COUNCIL / FACEBOOK

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Report shows growth in ‘Southeast’ Queens State comptroller identifies economic gains, but challenges in safety, climate by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Richmond Hill and Ozone Park saw significant growth in jobs, wages and businesses over the past decade, while residents continued to face challenges related to housing affordability, public safety and f looding, according to a new report from state Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. The report, titled “Richmond Hill and Ozone Park: An Economic Snapshot,” examines economic and demographic trends in Richmond Hill and Woodhaven in Community District 9, and South Ozone Park and Howard Beach in Community District 10. DiNapoli on Oct. 23 gathered with area officials at the South Ozone Park Library to unveil his findings. The combined area had 254,860 residents in 2024, accounting for 11 percent of Queens’ population, per the report. Nearly half of resi- State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, front center with area officials, released a report Oct. 23 that dents, 47.6 percent, were born outside the shows significant economic growth in Southeast Queens. PHOTO VIA NYS COMPTROLLER / X United States, primarily in South America, nesses increased by 57.1 percent, from $1.7 percent between 2014 and 2024, substantially Asia and the Caribbean. “There is much to be excited about in our billion to $2.6 billion, while average wages exceeding the 0.2 percent decline in Queens and citywide. Southeast Queens communities,” DiNapoli rose 37.5 percent to $57,848. Public safety remains another concern. The area’s median household income said. “Rising household income, declining poverty rates, job and business growth, and reached $88,967 in 2024, exceeding the Major felony crime totaled nearly 2,900 incistudent performance are all bright spots, Queens median of $85,273 and the citywide dents in 2025, remaining relatively flat compared with 2024, per the report. along with the development of a new world figure of $81,228, per the comptroller. However, major felony crime in the area The share of households living below the class cancer center and major improvements fe d e r a l p ove r t y was 49 percent above prepandemic levels, to local transportalevel declined from compared with 39 percent in Queens and 27 tion and entertainhere is much to be excited 14.6 percent in 2014 percent citywide. ment hubs.” Through the first half of 2026, major crime to 12.6 percent in Howeve r, he about in our Southeast 2024. Child poverty increased another 7 percent in the area, while said, crime and clialso fell, with the remaining flat in Queens and declining 6 permate change Queens communities.” share of children cent citywide. remain serious conThe report also highlights chronic floodliving below the cer ns requir ing — State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli poverty level drop- ing, particularly in South Ozone Park and continued attention. Howard Beach, and ongoing efforts to Between 2014 and 2024, private-sector ping from 21.7 percent to 12.6 percent. Despite the gains, housing costs remain a address infrastr ucture and stor mwater employment in Richmond Hill and Ozone problems. Park grew 14.3 percent to 45,141 jobs, while concern. “There is much to be excited about in our In 2024, 39.5 percent of homeowners in the the number of private businesses increased 16.2 percent to 4,940. The growth in busi- combined area spent at least 30 percent of Southeast Queens communities,” DiNapoli nesses exceeded the citywide rate of 14.2 per- their household income on housing costs, said in a statement. “Rising household compared with 38.1 percent across Queens. income, declining poverty rates, job and busicent, the report said. Healthcare accounted for the largest share Among renters, 54.1 percent spent at least 30 ness growth, and student performance are all of employment growth, followed by leisure percent of their income on rent and utilities, bright spots, along with the development of a new world class cancer center and major and hospitality and transportation and ware- compared with 52.6 percent boroughwide. The area’s population also declined 10.9 improvements to local transportation and housing. Total wages paid by private busi-

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“T

entertainment hubs.” But, DiNapoli said, there is still work to be done. “Crime rates and the impacts of climate change are some of the serious concerns that require continued attention to keep Richmond Hill and Ozone Park moving forward,” the comptroller said. State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) said the report identifies both the area’s economic strengths and the work still needed. “I appreciate State Comptroller DiNapoli’s report, because it not only spotlights the positive economic strengths of Richmond Hill and Ozone Park, but also lays out a clear, thoughtful blueprint for the priorities and next steps that we legislators, partnering with all interested individuals and entities, need to work on and address,” Addabbo said. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. said the findings demonstrate how economic growth has benefited local families while underscoring the need to address affordability. “I am committed to working with the Comptroller and all our partners both inside and outside government to address the affordability crisis and to extend the benefits of economic growth to all of our borough’s residents, not just a few,” Richards said. City Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) similarly emphasized the need to ensure residents share in the area’s progress. “Rising incomes and declining poverty are significant signs of progress. At the same time, families continue to face challenges with housing affordability, public safety, and quality of life,” Schulman said. Tom Grech, president and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, said the strong numbers in the report are encouraging. “To see communities representing more than one-tenth of Queens’ population experience such significant growth in wages, businesses and job opportunities over the past decade is a major achievement and sets an example for the rest of the borough,” Grech said, adding that he expects the positive trends to continue as major investments are Q made in the borough.

Greenway plans to begin: city

Guv allots $3.3M to Queens

The city announced Monday that it will take public input next year on plans for a seven-mile greenway from Spring Creek Park to Brookville Park. The Southern Queens Greenway would aim to improve access to JFK Airport, officials said. It would connect to the existing Jamaica Bay Greenway and to parks in Southeast Queens, an area the city says has limited cycling infrastructure. The city Transportation and Parks departments, as well as the Economic Development Corp., are developing the plan. Three other “early action corridors” are

Gov. Hochul on Tuesday announced $3.3 million in state funding will be allocated to support three projects throughout Southeast Queens. The investments include $1.5 million for a new training facility at the Springfield Gardens Educational Campus, at 143-10 Springfield Blvd.; $1 million for the expansion of River Fund’s Food Distribution Center, at 89-11 Lefferts Blvd. in Richmond Hill; and $800,000 to support lighting upgrades around Queens Supreme Court, at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd. in Jamaica, to improve public safety near

also being planned: a 15-mile Bronx Waterfront Greenway, a 10-mile Staten Island Waterfront Greenway and a 12-mile Historic Brooklyn Greenway, which would run from Coney Island to Highland Park, at the Brooklyn-Queens border. A 2022 federal grant funds the planning, per City Hall, and the city expects to finish plans for six greenways by 2028. The Bronx corridor is first for public input, starting next week, and workshops for the Southern Queens Greenway are set to Q begin in 2027. — Kristen Guglielmo

the facility. The funding will be administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York, per the governor’s office. “Every New Yorker deserves a safe and thriving community with access to the resources and services they need to succeed,” Hochul said in a statement. “These dollars will support necessary projects across Queens from expanding workforce training oppor tunities to strengthening food access and improving Q neighborhood safety.” — Kristen Guglielmo

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MTA A train

NYC voters hit the polls early

continued from page 4 Rockaway Blvd/97 St, Rockaway Blvd/102 St, 111 St/Liberty Av and Lefferts Blvd/ Liberty Av stations. Service to Rockaway Boulevard will consist of shuttle buses stopping at Lefferts Blvd/Liberty Av, 111 St/107 Av, Rockaway Blvd/104 St, Rockaway Blvd/ Liberty Av and Rockaway Blvd/94 St. During the closure, riders can use regular Q112 bus service on Liberty Avenue, the Q8 on 101st Avenue or the Q41 on 109th Avenue and Rockaway Boulevard for travel in either direction. Regular local bus fares will apply. The Q112, Q8 and Q41 do not run overnight. Street-level construction related to the project will also require Q112 detours over two weekends. Riders should allow extra travel time during those periods. Work on the elevated structure will require street-level construction affecting traffic during part of the closure. The following restrictions will be in effect from 12 a.m. Saturday until 5 a.m. Monday on the weekends of Nov. 7 to 9 and Nov. 14 to 16. Liberty Avenue will be closed to all through traffic, as will 99th Street between 103rd Avenue and Rockaway Boulevard; and 100th Street between 103rd Avenue and Rockaway Boulevard. Northbound traffic on Liberty Avenue will be diverted to 103rd Avenue from 98th Street to 104th Street. Southbound traffic on Liberty will be diverted to Rockaway Boulevard from 101st Street to 96th Street. Signs will indicate temporary curbside Q parking restrictions.

More than 71,000 in Queens cast ballots as of Tuesday by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

Hundreds of thousands of city dwellers cast ballots during the first four days of early voting. By the time the polls closed Tuesday, 294,604 people across the city had voted, according to preliminary numbers from the city Board of Elections. In Queens, 71,106 residents had checked in. But even before that, New Yorkers made an impressive showing at early voting sites over the weekend. Last Saturday, more than 86,000 people across the five boroughs — 20,839 in Queens — checked in on day one alone. That figure for the borough nearly doubled by the time the polls closed Sunday — 40,281 Queens voters had checked in by then. By the end of the weekend, the cumulative citywide total was 165,143. Fox News reported that the weekend’s numbers were up slightly from last year’s early voting figures during the mayoral race, but down from the ones recorded in 2024 for the presidential election. As of Wednesday morning, Queens had the third-highest number of early voters in the five boroughs. Brooklyn led the city

with 85,849, and Manhattan was not far behind with 82,438. The Bronx and Staten Island recorded 30,848 and 24,363 checkins, respectively. This time around, New Yorkers are making selections for a number of state races, including governor, comptroller, attorney general, Senate and Assembly. Voters also are seeing contests for judgeships and congressional seats on their ballots, as well as five proposed City Charter amendments. A full list of the candidates across Queens is available at tinyurl.com/3djzr35p. The remaining early voting dates are: • Today, Oct. 29, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; • Friday, Oct. 30, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; • Saturday, Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and • Sunday, Nov. 1, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no early voting Nov. 2. The polls will be open on Election Day, Nov. 3, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Early voting and Election Day poll sites may differ. Voters may search for either location or view their sample ballots at findmypollsite. Q vote.nyc.

Early voting poll sites, including one at The Shops at Atlas Park in Glendale, will be open daily through Nov. 1. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 10

P A farewell message from Publisher Mark Weidler

EDITORIAL

AGE

fter nearly 36 years and 1,857 editions of the Queens Chronicle, this is my final one as publisher and owner. I have made the decision to sell the Chronicle to Vicki and Josh Schneps. This decision did not come easy for me as the Chronicle is the only career I’ve ever had. It has been my life’s work, my passion and a defining part of who I am. My mother, Susan Merzon, started the business nearly 48 years ago, on Nov. 5, 1978. The publication then was known as The Paper, covering Howard Beach and Ozone Park. A few years later, my stepfather, Stanley Merzon, joined the company. I began working there at 14 years old, after school, processing pictures, pasting copy onto layout boards and learning the business from the ground up. I graduated from college on Dec. 15, 1990, began working at the newspaper three days later and never looked back. Over the years, we expanded the Chronicle to cover most of Queens with eight editions and launched a number of other newspapers and magazines. For all 1,857 weeks, I looked forward to coming to work and producing newspapers every Thursday that we could all be proud of — a product built on integrity, fairness and a commitment to our community. I never could have made it through these 36 years without

an incredible staff. There isn’t enough space here to thank the hundreds of people who have contributed to the Chronicle’s success, but I want to recognize a few. I was fortunate to have four outstanding editors-in-chief over the years — Betty, Liz, Dan and, for the past 18 years, Peter — who led our newsroom with integrity each and every week. Countless times over the years, I sat down with new reporters and shared my one overriding rule: No reader should ever know a reporter’s political leanings from reading a news story in the Chronicle. Those opinions belong only on the editorial page. In today’s world of hyperpartisan news coverage, I insisted every week that we provide straightforward, fair and accurate community news. I was equally fortunate to have four incredibly dedicated people running the art and editorial production departments: Jan and Moe, who each have been with the Chronicle longer than I have, and Ella and Terry, who each dedicated more than 20 years to the company. No business succeeds without a strong sales and operations team and I was fortunate there as well, with many longterm employees including Beverly, Jim, Stela and Mike. Last, but certainly not least, I want to thank my general manager, Ray who has sat beside me for the past 32 years, always doing what’s in the best interest of the business, a

LETTERS TO THE Ya gotta be Steve Published every week by

MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC.

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

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Dear Editor: I am surprised at the city. A hundred people showed up at City Hall to protest the building of a casino near Citi Field and the city didn’t fold and stop construction (“Residents protest casino at City Hall,” Oct. 22, multiple editions). By noon on the Monday after the Mets’ last Sunday home game, construction crews had already fenced off the parking lots and were breaking ground. Steve Cohen probably didn’t really mind the Mets missing the playoffs because the construction could start in September and not November. The real question should be, with just about every inch of property being used for the project, where will the Mets build a new stadium when Citi Field becomes outdated or rundown in the future? David Conlin Howard Beach

What a day yesterday was Dear Editor: Oct. 28 is National First Responders Day. We honor all police officers, emergency medical services personnel, firefighters and all who save us when there is an emergency. Praise them. But ambulance response times are longer © Copyright 2026 by MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. All rights reserved. Neither this newspaper nor any part thereof may be reproduced, copied, or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, microfilming, recording or by any information retrieval system without the express written permission of the publishers. This copyright is extended to the design and text created for advertisements. Reproduction of said advertisement or any part thereof without the express written permission of MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. is strictly prohibited. This publication will not be responsiblefor errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Bylined articles represent the sole opinion of the writer and are not necessarily in accordance with the views of the QUEENS CHRONICLE. This Publication reserves the right to limit or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. The Queens Chronicle is published weekly by Mark I Publications, Inc. at a subscription rate of $25 per year and out of state, $25 per year. Periodicals Postage Paid (USPS0013-572) at Flushing, N.Y. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mark I Publications, Inc., 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-201, Glendale, NY 11385.

steady presence providing wise counsel. I also want to thank the thousands of advertisers who supported us over the years. Without you, we never could have provided the Queens community with a free newspaper each week. Throughout the years, I watched with admiration as Vicki and Josh built a remarkable company. Beginning with the Queens Courier to now owning more than 100 newspapers and magazines, along with a thriving events business, what they have accomplished is extraordinary. Competing against them all these years was certainly a challenge. I wish them every success as they continue the Chronicle’s legacy and carry it well beyond its 50th anniversary. Now, however, it is time for me to move on. I look forward to traveling the world with my wife, Kim, and enjoying the next chapter of life. I will miss the people I worked alongside, the advertisers who supported us, the readers who welcomed us into their homes each week, and the community leaders and organizations I have had the privilege of knowing over the years. Thank you for allowing the Chronicle to be part of your lives for the past 48 years. It has truly been the honor of a lifetime. Farewell, Queens, and thank you.

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now due to EMS people leaving and not being paid much. They deserve more money. It also is National Chocolate Day. My mother loved chocolate; my grandma did as well. There is something in chocolate that makes people happy. But the prices of chocolate are high now. It also is National Internal Medicine day. We laud those doctors. My brother was an internal medicine doctor. Let us pray that all goes well in our city, state and nation, and ask God for consolation. Cynthia Groopman Little Neck

About that MTA ‘success’ Dear Editor: The MTA reported this week that as a result of the Queens Bus Redesign, buses are 1.7 percent faster and off-peak bus speeds 2 percent faster. That, the agency says, constitutes success. It also said there are 800,000 daily riders who are benefiting. Initially, after the change, New York City Transit President declared Queens to

be a “world class bus system.” Shortly thereafter, the MTA announced revisions would be made due to the many complaints. Why would a world-class system need revisions? Let’s analyze these statements in light of other facts. The MTA’s own numbers show 500,000 weekday riders. Each passenger counts as at least two riders because many need transfers. Realistically we are speaking about 300,000 different people, not 800,000, if you also consider weekend riders. Even if true, 1.7 percent faster buses due to elimination of 1,800 bus stops does not mean people’s trips are faster. The MTA is not measuring walking time or the greater chance of missing a bus due to it. More people are now complaining about reduced reliability and waits of up to 1 hour for a bus. If it only took an increase in bus speed of 1.7 percent to make the system “world class,” the old system was nearly world class. Right? The MTA would never admit failure. Remember the promise of up to 30 percent faster trips as a result of Woodhaven Boulevard

Woodside’s complex crises Dear Editor: As a native Queens New Yorker who lives in Eastern Queens, I receive all the flash flood alerts as they come. Yet each and every time, the heavy rain thankfully only reaches a few inches of my basement at most. Looking at my family members and others on social media, I see how bad the situation can get. People’s homes are torn due to a lack of protective infrastructure, and this is becoming increasingly more common as climate change takes over. Woodside, housing an abundance of diverse cultures, needs to be protected not only for the people but also as a means of uplifting the community (“Woodside needs flood infrastructure fix now,” Opinion, Oct. 15, multiple editions). Poor infrastructure negatively affects Woodside’s social fabric, creating a devastating housing crisis in comparison to other areas of Queens such as Forest Hills and Bayside. This has often deepened residents’ isolation from City Council members, with a sense of resentment for the lack of care. In order to unify our county further, we have to attempt to mitigate damages and improve infrastructure, to endorse a higher standard of living. This in turn will encourage a deeper sense of pride and community for our people. Isabell Huang Bayside The writer is a senior at Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan.

Life is cheap today

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Mining for puns Dear Editor: My wife and I recently had dinner at one of the top-rated steakhouses on Long Island’s North Shore. I pulled into the parking lot with our new 2026 Hyundai Sonata, where a very, ver y young-looking parking attendant approached. My wife and I got out of the car while this 15-year-old-looking young man got behind the wheel, appearing very uncomfortable in the seat staring at the dashboard. As my wife and I walked toward the restaurant door, I turned and saw this youngish adolescent driver keep stopping over and over again every few feet as though he had never driven a car before. Eventually my car disappeared as he drove it toward the back of the restaurant. Upon our entering the restaurant, the hostess saw I looked very upset and asked if everything was OK. I told her I was worried about my car. She said, “Was there a problem with the attendant parking your car?” I replied, “The car is fine, but how green was my valet.” Mark Lane Douglaston

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‘President Hoax’ Dear Editor: The difference between President Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin is that Putin did not lead an insurrection attack on the U.S. Capitol, pardon the perpetrators after they were convicted and then give them jobs with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to continue their assault on and betrayal of the American people. Trump then wanted a fund so the American people can pay the insurrectionists who attacked and betrayed them. Trump reportedly said Hitler did some good things. Hitler was an abomination, a murderer and a drug addict who wanted to take land and countries that didn’t belong to him. Trump also said he was not going to heaven. Does he also speak for House Speaker Mike Johnson and the party of hoaxes, fake news and alternate facts? It’s better to be fired by Trump than to be dismissed and cast out by God. Then there will be gnashing of teeth. For eternity, choose Heaven — nonsmoking, please. Albert Ross Glendale

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Dear Editor: We have truly lost the value of a human life! It has become a commodity, both useful and disposable: useful as fodder for war, disposable when not wanted by abortion. And every day, a person is maimed or killed by an unstable person with mental problems — yet we don’t commit the resources to house them where they would be properly medicated and citizens would be safe, which is government’s first priority.

The recent news that Mayor Mamdani and Gov. Hochul will provide funds for early education of 2-year-olds as a gift to hardworking families is a real joke. If the cost of living in New York was not so high that two parents have to work just to barely exist, that would be no gift. And to use education as a babysitter when at least one parent should be home during those precious, formative years is pathetic. Furthermore, in respect for human life, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that the release of cop killers after 25 years of good behavior is a sin, as is the state’s 2019 criminal justice reform bill, still in existence, that allows predators back on the street with no bail or consequences. Speak up, New Yorkers! Thomas and Constance Dowd Oakland Gardens

Select Bus Service in 2017? The MTA declared success after initial data showed trips were 3 percent faster if you rode 3 miles or more. When speed limits were lowered, SBS trips became slower than the Limiteds they replaced. A truly successful redesign would show ridership up 20 percent and passenger trips 10 percent quicker. That never happened. Leave it to the MTA for logical inconsistencies, manipulation and juggling of statistics to give misleading impressions. Allan Rosen Brooklyn The writer is a former director of MTA New York City Transit Bus Planning.

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Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

LETTERS TO THE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 12

EMS wage gap fuels staffing shortages City Council, comptroller highlight response time, pay parity concerns by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

A school nurse called 911 three times for a 14-year-old boy who was suffering a stroke, his mother told the City Council on Oct. 20. By the time an ambulance reached St. Francis Preparatory School in Fresh Meadows on Sept. 28, she had already driven him to the hospital herself. “He was slurring his words. His speech wasn’t clear,” Jennifer Daly of Howard Beach testified via Zoom. “I called his cardiologist and I said, ‘We have to get him over to the hospital. What do I do?’ She said, ‘Wait for the ambulance.’ I said , ‘I ca n not wait for t he ambulance.’” Daly reached NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens hospital at 9:52 a.m., she said. Her son, Kevin, was later transferred to Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital in Manhattan. FDNY EMS Chief Paul Miano, during the City Council’s hearing on response times hosted jointly by the Committees on Fire and Emergency Management and Hospitals, called it “a tragic incident.”

The call was passed from NYPD dispatch to EMS dispatch, Miano explained, and was entered in the system to say Kevi n had an “unknown condition” because EMS never spoke with the caller to triage it, so it was not made a priority. Miano said 911 was handling more than 100 calls above normal that morning. “Our life-threatening, our most serious calls ... do not hold,” Miano said. “Those calls are immediately dispatched out as soon as an ambulance is available. A report by City Comptroller Mark Levine released Oct. 16 found that the average response time to life-threatening emergencies rose 3 minutes, 50 seconds, or 41.2 percent, to 13 minutes, 9 seconds, from fiscal years 2015 to 2026, which City Council Speaker Julie Menin (D-Manhattan) at the hearing said “is just wholly unconscionable.” Over that same period, lifethreatening medical emergencies grew 22.9 percent, while the paramedic workforce stayed about the same size. Pay is part of it. An EMT’s first-

Staffing shortages have led to longer response times, officials say, as EMS workers fight for better wages. PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON / FILE year salary is $43,932, compared with $54,122 for a firefighter, and is the lowest of any city first responder or uniformed title. EMT salaries also climb more slowly. From hiring date through year five, salaries rise 56 percent, compared with 94 percent for firefighters. After five and a half years, an EMT’s base salary is $68,700, compared with $105,146 for a firefighter, a gap of more than $35,000.

Local 2507, which represents EMTs and paramedics, has been without a contract since July 29, 2022. Current EMT and paramedic salaries do not reflect a new deal, which would bring retroactive raises, the report says. More than 500 EMTs left their jobs in fiscal year 2026, or 19.5 percent of average headcount. The comptroller’s report did not specify the number of hires, but said

there were 2,540 EMTs at the end of that year. Also in fiscal year 2026, 58 percent of EMT departures left to be firefighters. The median EMT has 3.8 years with the title, compared with 8.1 years for firefighters. FDNY Chief of Department John Esposito said at the Council hearing that 358 EMTs and 63 paramedics left to become firefighters in 2026, adding that the depar tment is “responding to more calls with fewer ambulances.” “It’s a positive outcome for the city to have firefighters with EMS and paramedic level medical training, but it also has a severe impact on EMS staffing in the short term,” Esposito said. “You cannot train your way out of a workforce crisis when you refuse to address why people are leaving,” testified Michael Greco, president of Local 2507. Training costs for new EMTs rose 300 percent between fiscal 2015 and 2026, from $15 million to more than $62 million, the report found. continued on page 16

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Wherever you go, there is Diwali

The Diwali motorcade in Richmond Hill kicked off at Phil Rizzuto Park last Saturday, a mostly stationary affair these days, going for its second colorful celebration since restarting last year. The Hindu festival of lights was cause enough for thousands to descend on the park, a group that included children dressed as gods, and longtime community leaders, such as Community Board 9 Chair Sherry Algredo, center, as well as prospective leaders, like Saritha Komatireddy, right, a lawyer running a long-shot campaign to become the state’s first-ever Indian American attorney general, as well as the first Republican to hold the job since — Andrew Karpan Dennis Vacco.

Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

• Secured nearly $60 million for Education, Public Safety, and Health Care Projects in Jamaica and Far Rockaway • Ensured $1 Billion in contracts for Minority Owned Businesses in Queens for JFK Redevelopment • Forced Trump to Cancel Canada Tariffs to Protect Families From Higher Prices • Supported Legislation to Lower Costs for Renters and Homeowners • Calls for End to ICE Brutality and Fights for a Pathway to Citizenship for Immigrants • Opposed Trump’s “Big Ugly Bill” and Its Cuts to Medicaid and SNAP • Fought for protections for the Federal Workforce and Unions

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 16

Motorcyclist dies in Ozone Park collision

Man stole vehicle with a child inside it: cops

volunteered, said on social med ia , “Joh n ny w ill be remembered for his warm A 27-year-old emergency smile, his great sense of medical technician died Oct. humor, and his willingness to 19 in a vehicle collision in go above and beyond to help Ozone Park. anyone in need. Police said Medina was “His dedication to helping operating a 2019 Kawasaki others and his positive spirit Z400 motorcycle, traveling left a lasting impression on eastbound on Pitkin Avenue those who had the privilege of approaching 96th St reet, knowing and serving alongwhen he struck a 2021 BMW X3, driven by a 32-year-old Johnny Medina, 27, of side him.” Medina’s sister, Janice woman, who was traveling Ozone Park died in a northbound on 96th Street. vehicle collision Oct. 19. Medina, started a GoFundMe Medina, who lived minutes WHBVFD PHOTO / FACEBOOK for his funeral arrangements. To view or donate, one may away on Centreville Street, sustained severe trauma to the head and visit gofund.me/37abd4a91. “He spent his life serving others in body, cops said, and was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where every way he could, including in the Air Force, in EMT/EMS, as a volunteer firehe was pronounced deceased. Police said there were no arrests and the fighter, and he was soon to join FDNY,” the online fundraiser reads. “His loss is investigation remains ongoing. Reactions from those who knew Medi- heartbreaking for the entire family, and na poured in following the news of his they are now facing the painful reality of making funeral ar rangements while death. The West Hamilton Beach Volunteer grieving someone who gave so much to Q Fire Department, for which Medina once so many.”

5-year-old boy was able to exit unharmed

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

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Giving blood saves lives The New York Blood Center is seeking donors in the midst of a blood emergency. To make an appointment to donate, visit nybc.org. There are several blood drives in Central and Western Queens listed now: • CUNY School of Law, busmobile, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 29, 2 Court Square in Long Island City; • NYPD 114th Precinct, muster room, 12 to 6 p.m., Friday, Oct. 30, 34-16 Astoria Blvd. in Astoria; • St. Margaret’s Parish, Parish Center, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 1, 66-05 79 Place in Middle Village; • NYC Department of Design & Construction, first floor atrium, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 18 and Thursday, Nov. 19, 30-30 Thomson Ave. in Long Island City; • Our Lady of Hope, auditorium, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 21, 61-27 71 St. in Middle Village; and • The Chu rch-in-the- Gardens, Community House Gym, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 22, 15 Borage Q Place in Forest Hills.

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Cops are searching for a man they say stole a car — occupied by a 5-year-old boy — in broad daylight last week in South Richmond Hill. Police said that on Oct. 20, at around 10 a.m., an unidentified man entered a Honda Accord parked in front of a home on 94-31 118 St. The child was in the back seat. The suspect proceeded to drive the vehicle to the vicinity of 131st Street and 101st Avenue, cops said, where the child was Police are searching for a suspect who stole a Honda able to exit unharmed. The per- Accord occupied by a 5-year-old boy in South Richpetrator then fled in the vehicle mond Hill on Oct. 20. PHOTO COURTESY NYPD to parts unknown. Police said the child was transported (74782). One may also submit tips by by EMS to NYC Health + Hospitals/ going to crimestoppers.nypdonline.org; or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and Queens in stable condition. Anyone with information is asked to e nt e r i ng T I P577; or by goi ng t o call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS @nypdtips on X. Q All tips are strictly confidential. (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA

Alleged tractor thief is sought by police Man took vehicles from Forest Park: cops by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

A man is wanted by cops after he allegedly stole two tractors from Forest Park last month, within the confines of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct, police announced Oct. 27. Cops said the f i rst i ncident occurred Sept. 7 at around 2:10 p.m., in the vicinity of Forest Park Drive and Woodhaven Boulevard, when an unidentified individual removed a green John Deere tractor, valued at approximately $12,000. He then fled to parts known. Police are searching for this man after he allegOn Sept. 27, at 11:50 a.m., cops edly stole two tractors from Forest Park last said the same suspect went to the month. PHOTO COURTESY NYPD same location and again removed a green John Deere tractor. He again fled e nt e r i ng T I P577; or by goi ng t o @nypdtips on X. to parts unknown. All tips are strictly confidential. Anyone with information is asked to According to the latest CompStat data call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA through Oct. 18, grand larcenies auto are (74782). One may also submit tips by down at the 102nd Precinct by 5.6 percent going to crimestoppers.nypdonline.org; this year to date. There were 266 at this or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and time in 2025, and 251 so far this year. Q

EMS concerns continued from page 12 Menin at the hearing said that low pay has driven “rising attrition and low recruitment, which of course perpetuates this understaffing issue.” “We all know at the end of the day what we need first is more money for our EMTs,” said Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Howard Beach), who chairs the Fire and Emergency Management Committee. She called for giving EMTs uniformed first responder and civil service status so they can “rise up in the ranks.” The city classifies EMTs as civilian employees, the comptroller’s report notes. Closing the gap would be costly. If EMS pay rose to firefighter levels, with the full pattern of raises uniformed workers received, the Comptroller’s Office estimates the net cost at $1.23 billion across fiscal years 2023 through 2027, after accounting for $163 million already in the city’s financial plan. The report cautions that pay parity “alone is unlikely to substantially lower emergency response times,” though better pay and retention “could ease operational pressures.” Esposito said the union is negotiating with the city’s Office of Labor Relations and the department is “hopeful that a resolution to the next contract will provide a recruiting boost.” Ariola believes “we are at a precipice of change” when it comes to EMS pay. “I don’t think there’s ever been a time when more people were looking at the pay levels of our EMS personnel, and I think that this will Q spur the change we need,” Ariola said.

Page 17 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 18

MTA bus fare teams Council gearing up put on stand-down for super speeders by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The head of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority has suspended street deployment of the agency’s Eagle Team fare enforcement units in the wake of two incidents that resulted in violent confrontations. MTA Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber, speaking at an unrelated press conference in Ozone Park on Oct. 22, said both incidents were compounded by long delays in reporting to agency officials. “Last week I ordered an immediate investigation into an incident involving a bus fare enforcement team — the Eagle Team — and a customer in Brooklyn,” Lieber said in a prepared statement, as seen in a video on the MTA’s YouTube site. “I was not happy that leadership of the MTA and even New York City Transit didn’t even hear about the episode until more than a week afterward. It now appears there is another episode where that failure to report is even more extreme.” The most recent incident took place in Brooklyn on Oct. 6 when Kyle Taylor was taken off a bus after saying he had paid his fare. The confrontation escalated to the

point at which Taylor, who has filed a suit against the MTA, asserts he was left unconscious. He appeared at a press conference last week with his arm in a sling. Channel 7 Eyewitness News reported that the first incident took place in the Bronx in August, and that officials did not learn about it until Thursday. Lieber has directed Michael Kemper, the MTA chief of security who served more than 30 years on the NYPD, to conduct the investigation. “I’m not willing to keep our teams active in the field until I know that appropriate protocols are being followed,” Lieber said. Speaking the next day at the Jamaica Center-York College E-J/Z subway station, Lieber reiterated that the stand-down order applies only to the Eagle Team’s field enforcement duties. He said that fare evasion on buses — which he placed at 40 percent — is not and will not be ignored. “We’re not giving up on fare evasion, because New Yorkers want the buses to be there,” he said. “I don’t want us to be in the position where we don’t have the money to fund the caliber of bus service and the frequency of bus service New York needs.” Q

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Three councilmembers from Queens are among the 15 co-sponsors of a bill that would allow the city to begin forcing so-called “super speeders” to install speed-regulating equipment on their vehicles. Intro. 1153, sponsored by Councilwoman Kayla Santosuosso (D-Brooklyn), would require agencies designated by Mayor Mamdani to set up a demonstration program. State legislation passed in the budget back in May gave municipalities a year to establish such a program. The City Counci bill now is with the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Santosuosso said on her official X account on Oct. 22 that it is time for the city to finish the job. “Today I introduced the Stop Super Speeders Bill,” Santosuosso said in her post. “This bill is about reining in the worst of the worst repeat offenders: drivers who, by racking up 16+ speed camera violations in 12 months, have proven they cannot be trusted to drive responsibly.

“This bill will prevent unnecessary deaths by slowing these super speeders down.” Co-sponsors include Queens Councilmembers Julie Won (D-Long Island City), Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) and Jennifer Gutiérrez (D-Brooklyn, Queens). If passed, the law would apply to owners of vehicles that amass 16 or more speeding violations in school speed zones over 12 months. The owner would be required, at his or her expense, to have a certified vendor install smart technology that would limit the auto’s speed. First offenders would have to keep the technology in place for 12 months. A spokesman for the city’s DOT thanked legislators for the bill “We know that a few extremely reckless drivers are creating outsized harm on our streets,” the spokesman said in an email to the Chronicle. “We appreciate the Council’s support of this life-saving program and look forward to crafting the details with them through the legislative Q process.”

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WE NEED RESULTS, NOT RHETORIC.

It’s been my honor to serve the residents of the 23rd Assembly District for the last decade. As I prepare to retire from public service I want to make sure that our local seniors, families, veterans, and ﬁrst responders are taken care of and continue to get the resources they need and deserve. That’s why I’m supporting Pesach Osina for State Assembly and I urge you to vote him too!”

VOTE FOR PESACH OSINA TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3RD! OR VOTE EARLY NOW THROUGH SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1ST.

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Kids think pink at PS 97 PS 97, the Forest Park School, recently hosted two events in recognition of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The first, a breast cancer awareness walk on Oct. 23, top, saw the streets surrounding the Woodhaven school closed off by the NYPD, according to parent coordinator Naresha Ali, allowing students from all classes to march down 85th Street donning pink clothes and displaying banners. Then, on Oct. 26, the school hosted a Pink Glow Party, above, spearheaded by

teacher Stacie Stuart. The event brought together families, staff and students, demonstrating a commitment to fighting breast cancer. All funds raised at both events will be donated to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer movement. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all staff members and the PTA for their efforts in making this event a success,” Ali said via email. — Kristen Guglielmo

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 22

Carriage drivers vow to file lawsuit, as lawmakers, activists celebrate by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

Horse-drawn carriages will soon be no more in New York City, after an overwhelming City Council vote on Oct. 22. Law makers voted 40 -7 in favor of Romanch’s Law, a measure that looks to phase out the industry by June 2028. It requires the city to establish a career transition program for industry workers, and help drivers find “humane disposition opportunities” for horses, per a Council press release. The bill, introduced by Councilmember Christopher Marte (D-Manhattan), was named for Romanch Mahajan, an 18-yearold tourist who was killed in a carriage accident in June. Mayor Mamdani has said he would sign it. Its passage marks the culmination of a yearslong fight — the Council first introduced a ban in 2007, and lawmakers in later years, including former Queens Councilmember Bob Holden, have led efforts to get one passed. “After 19 years of relentless advocacy, the passage of Romanch’s Law marks a historic victory for horses, workers, and everyone who deserves safe streets,” said Edita Birnkrant, the executive director of New Yorkers for Clean, Livable and Safe Streets, who hails from Fresh Meadows. To NYCLASS and other advocates, the passage is a hard-fought win. Many have long decried the carriage rides as cruel to animals, a claim denied by industry workers. Proponents also say the cab rides have become more dangerous as streets have gotten busier. “Horse-drawn carriages have been part of New York City’s history since before cars, but our city has changed drastically,” Councilmember and Health Committee Chair Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) said. “Our streets and parks have become increasingly overcrowded and chaotic. This creates a massive safety risk for all.” Council Speaker Julie Menin (D-Manhattan) said the vote was a demonstration of lawmakers’ commitment to animal welfare, public safety and worker protection, saying the status quo has become “unsustainable and unsafe for horses and people alike.” “The resulting plan establishes a deadline to phase out the industry while ensuring the development of a comprehensive workforce transition that will protect the livelihoods of the hardworking New Yorkers who depend on it,” Menin said in a statement. For carriage drivers, however, the ban is a devastating loss. The Transport Workers Union, which represents them, on Oct. 21 vowed to file a federal lawsuit if the law is enacted. The union’s attorneys wrote a letter to NYC Corporation Counsel Steve Banks saying they would seek a temporary restraining order “the minute the ink dries.” “This bill is a train wreck of constitutional and due process violations,” TWU International President John Samuelsen said in a news release, adding that it offers “nothing concrete” for workers who will be “financially crushed.” The release continues in part that the bill as

Advocates including Edita Birnkrant of New Yorkers for Clean, Livable and Safe Streets, center, rallied for Romanch’s Law before it passed last week. PHOTO BY JOHN MCCARTEN / NYC COUNCIL / FLICKR written takes property without compensation, including costly city-issued medallions, and does not guarantee employment. TWU Local 100 Administrative Vice President Alexander Kemp called the law “blatantly unconstitutional,” saying it provides “nothing but a plan to draft a plan.” Union leaders also have noted that more people are killed in e-bike and scooter crashes than carriage accidents. Romanch’s Law requires the Mamdani administration to establish a transition plan by April 1 that includes career assistance for industry workers. Menin also is set to form a joint working group to ease the transition, and the administration and union have been invited to have one representative join each. Per a Council press release, the administration will “consider” compensating drivers, including for the value of their businesses, licenses and equipment. The city also is to help drivers find “humane disposition opportunities” for horses, and they may not be sold for slaughter or another cab business. Owners could opt to keep their horses. Among the bill’s dissenters were Queens Councilmembers Joann Ariola (R-Howard Beach), Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) and Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone). Gennaro had introduced a measure calling for more industry regulations, including more driver training and hitching posts in Central Park. Gennaro at last week’s meeting said in part that no driver in the 168-year-old industry has ever been convicted of animal cruelty. In a lengthy statement on Facebook, he said the latest version of the bill “sidesteps” and delegates to the mayor key issues, such as the fate of retiring horses. He also cited a lack of jobs in the hospitality industry, which some have suggested for drivers, and lingering questions about the disposition of medallions. “If you have read this far, you hopefully have a grasp of the unfairness of Intro. No.

943-A, the callous disregard of horses’ lives, inhumane treatment of immigrant workers, the risk to the financial futures of medallion owners and their families,” Gennaro’s statement reads. Ariola and Paladino both were co-sponsors

on Holden’s ban bill, but voted against the latest measure. Both said the measure that passed lacks solid protections for impacted business owners. “I really felt that we would come to a place where everybody had received something — the horses, the owners and the people who work there,” Ariola said. “It didn’t happen, and that’s why I just couldn’t be part of it.” In Ariola’s view, the tragedy of Mahajan’s death thrust the bill into the public eye and propelled it to a vote prematurely. She told the Chronicle she supported an amendment to Romanch’s Law that would have extended its timeline to 2030, but it was shot down. Ariola also would like to have seen horse carriages replaced by electric ones operated by medallion owners. Holden’s bill originally included an electric carriage mandate, but that was dropped in a later version. Paladino said she co-sponsored Holden’s legislation with the understanding that if it moved forward, more concrete plans for workers would be developed. Romanch’s Law did not address her concerns “except in the vaguest of terms,” she continued. “These are generational businesses that are going to be lost forever, and the sad thing is we could’ve implemented a real solution that Q worked for everyone,” Paladino said.

PHOTO COURTESY PJ MARCEL

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City will phase out horse-drawn cabs

Sunny skies and sweet treats Costumed children filled the parking lot of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, at 100-05 159 Ave. in Howard Beach, on Oct. 25 for the annual Trunk or Treat, a festive neighborhood tradition. Under sunny skies, children in their Halloween best went from car to car, collecting treats at trunks decorated with themes by

participating residents. Kids could also brave a haunted corn maze and participate in crafts, above, adding some more playful fun to the afternoon. With bright costumes, big smiles and bags full of candy, the event was a sweet way for the community to celebrate the Halloween season. — Kristen Guglielmo

Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 24

Who exactly is a native New Yorker? Jackson Heights bookstore is going to host a ‘Support Group’ for them by Andrew Karpan Associate Editor

The Astoria — by way of Flushing — writer Caroline Shin said she disagrees, just a little bit, with what the Bronx-born celebrity Jennifer Lopez recently said m a k e s a “ n a t i ve N e w Yorker.” Shin has been thinking about the subject a lot. Next month, she is hosting the first-ever meeting of a “Support Group for Native New Yorkers.” She tells the Chronicle that it will be a kind of oral history event, with some 50 or 60 people volunteering to publicly mourn things they miss about the New York City they grew up in. Native New Yorkers, and others interested in sitting down and listening to their stories of what this city once was, can take a seat on Nov. 8 at 1 p.m. at The World’s Borough Bookshop, a bookstore that opened in 2023 at 34-06 73 St. in Jackson Heights. There will be music too, including from the Southeast, Queens-born Naveed Ahmed, who recently self-released a song called “Gentrifiers,” which he says “aims to spread awareness of the mass displacement of low income minority/immigrant New Yorkers and raise capital to donate towards anti-gentrification efforts,” per his website. Shin says he’ll be playing that one. In a flier she posted online, she pointed to the Long Island City art spot 5Pointz, demolish ed several years ago, and the Jamaica Colosseum Mall, closed earlier this year, as examples of the kinds of losses she hopes to

commiserate about next month with other fellow natives. “I feel like Native New Yorkers, we’ve been displaced into silence,” Shin said. But who exactly are native New Yorkers? In a recent viral interview with Kareem Rahma, in the popular video series “Subway Ta ke s ,” Je n n i fe r L o p e z famously said that “When you’re born in New York is when you’re really a New Yorker.” “I disagree with J. Lo, because she said you had to have been born here. I don’t agree with that,” responded Shin. Like most New Yorkers, she had her own idea for when exactly native-New Yorkness sets in. “I think that New York needed to have made who you are during your formative years,” she said. Mayor Mamdani — who moved to the city at the age of 7 — counts by this metric, but Bill de Blasio, who largely grew up in Cambridge, Mass., perhaps does not. There was one exception to that rule, however: “I think there is a footnote for workingclass immigrants who are coming in here because what makes New York City amazing is that international flavor.” Otherwise, the Queens-born Shin is firm about where the borders of New York City begin and end. What about farther out on Long Island? Or Yonkers? “The way I see New York City is just the five boroughs. The question is: ‘did you get a green metro card to go to school?’

Caroline Shin, left, is starting a “support group” to commiserate over shared losses, like 5Pointz and the Colosseum Mall. COURTESY PHOTO, LEFT; IMAGE VIA INSTAGRAM CAROLINEFROMQUEENS This was important. “Just the fact that you’re growing up on the subway is a whole coming of age experience,” she said. Maintaining those kinds of definitions is important because of the omnipresent force of the “transplant.” “So much of New York media is run by transplants,” said Shin, who works as a writer, freelancing for places like the New York Times, Gothamist and Eater, while blogging on Instagram under the handle “carolinefromqueens.” “I went to Columbia Journalism School, I did all the things that you’re supposed to do,” she said. “But then really, when you look at who is on staff at New York media, this is not representative of the people who grew up here,” she added. Asked if she thinks that she’s sowing division among millions of people who

all live in the same city regardless, Shin said “In terms of division, that division has already been happening.” “That division was happening when you have New Yorkers creating beautiful buildings that we all admire, and then some corporate body comes over and eats it up. They cause that division. I’m observing the grief of those who have been bullied.” In an e-mail, Shin added “we grew up in a different NYC, of white flight, AIDS scares, crack epidemics, and potential muggings and sexual assaults anytime, anywhere. Within that rubble, we created this magic through our suffering and resilience and hustle.” Of course, not being a native New Yorker isn’t the worst thing in the world. “If you’re from Ohio and you grew up in Ohio, rep Ohio,” she said. “If I go and live in another country. I’m never going to all of a Q sudden say that I’m from that country.”

SNAP card security fixes coming in ’27 State switching to theft-resistant technology for food assistance program by Michael Gannon For the latest news visit qchron.com

Senior News Editor

In a move that elected officials in Queens have been seeking for a long time, the state’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance has announced that it will introduce antifraud and antitheft security upgrades to the benefit cards used by residents in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, in 2027. In a joint press release on Oct. 22, state Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) and Assemblymember Nily Rozic (D-Fresh Meadows) said the present magnetic strip cards will be replaced by sturdier plastic cards resembling bank cards. And, like bank cards, they will be designed with chip technology to protect against things such as skimmers placed on payment machines at grocery stores. “For years, New York has relied on an outdated EBT system that made it far too easy for scammers to take advantage of hard-working

New Yorkers,” Liu said in a press release. “As scammers and their skimming devices got more sophisticated, thousands of SNAP recipients continued to get ripped off, and so we relentlessly pushed the state to upgrade its [electronic benefit transfer] cards with the same safety measures found in credit and debit cards.” OTDA Commissioner Barbara Guinn said in the press release that New York is one of the first states transitioning to secure chip-based EBT card technology. “Businesses that currently accept SNAP or cash benefits on the EBT card will need to upgrade their systems and equipment to accept the new EBT chip/tap cards, before the Dec. 1, 2026, deadline,” Guinn said. “EBT theft can have devastating consequences for SNAP recipients, and we must do everything we can to prevent it,” said Rozic, chair of the Assembly’s Consumer Protection Committee. “Sen. Liu and I have long advocated for ensuring that the benefits families

depend on are secure.” The statement said over the last year in New York City, there were more than 34,000 claims for stolen SNAP benefits amounting to approximately $17.1 million in reported losses. Typically, thieves will slip a skimming device either over or inside a payment device that is capable of copying a SNAP recipient’s card information and personal identification number, allowing them to clean out an account. U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) has been a longtime advocate for reforms to the SNAP program at both the federal and state levels. She has a bill in Washington that would assist states with some of the financial costs of switching their systems over to the high-tech chip cards and systems. “[A]nd as we prepare for this upcoming transition, we remind local retailers that they should be ready to accept them,” she said. Assemblyman Ron Kim (D-Flushing) said the elderly are particularly vulnerable.

“Upgrading EBT cards with chip-and-tap technology is a critical step toward protecting our constituents and ensuring they can purchase essential groceries safely and with peace of mind,” Kim said. Councilwoman Sandra Ung (D-Flushing) said the problem has only worsened in recent years. “For years, my office has heard from SNAP recipients who have had their benefits stolen through fraud, a situation that has become even more difficult since the federal program that helped reimburse victims for stolen benefits lapsed,” Ung said. The OTDA provided a list of steps that retailers and financial institutions should follow to upgrade their equipment. Businesses should contact their point-ofervice provider immediately to update their devices to fully support SNAP EBT chip/tap cards. More information is available at fna. Q usda.gov/snap/ebt/modernization.

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Agreement with FoHi Gardens Corp. may end years of ongoing lawsuits by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor

Forest Hills Stadium neighbors’ yearslong legal battles with the venue owner and operator may finally be over. The Forest Hills Gardens Corp., West Side Tennis Club and Tiebreaker Productions on Oct. 21 announced a settlement of all pending litigation that “sets a collaborative path forward for the century-old institutions,” according to a Tiebreaker press release. Under the agreement, the stadium can hold concerts under certain regulations, and the Gardens Corp. gets financial compensation. “With the divisiveness of the lawsuits now behind us, we look forward to building a constructive working relationship with the Stadium and are proud to usher in this new chapter for our community,” the FHGC Board of Directors said in the release. The association’s prior agreement with Tiebreaker, the stadium’s operator, expired in 2022. With no contract in place, the Gardens Corp. filed a lawsuit in Queens Supreme Court in 2023 that cited an increase in the number of concerts, claiming they cause harm to neighbors. Quality-of-life issues during shows, from noise to drunken crowds to public urination, have long troubled nearby residents. Court records show that a separate lawsuit filed by Concerned Citizens of Forest Hills was dis-

missed last year, and the decision was upheld on appeal in June. Co-plaintiff Doug Gilbert said the group has filed a motion for leave to appeal to the New York Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court. It is still pending. The agreement between the venue and the Gardens Corp. begins Jan. 1, with renewals to 2040. During the deal’s initial seven-year term, the stadium may host up to 28 concerts per season. For each year thereafter, shows are capped at 29. Performances are subject to regulations including live audio monitoring and a 10 p.m. curfew for amplified sound. Friday and Saturday evening shows in July may run until 10:30 p.m. with city approval, per a memo that the Gardens Corp. Board of Directors shared with residents. Any fireworks displays over the stadium must be authorized by the city and approved by the Gardens Corp. Concertgoers also will be directed to use specific attendee routes on Burns Street to minimize disruption to residential blocks, and venue personnel will continue to work with police and post-show sanitation crews. Tiebreaker will provide “substantial payments” to the FHGC, per the press release. That includes $275,000 upfront, some of which will go toward neighborhood beautification, and

Forest Hills Stadium has struck a deal with its neighboring resident association. The agreement may put an end to years of litigation over concerts. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ per-show sums that start at $15,500 and increase over time. The promoter also will appoint a community ombudsman whom residents can contact during shows to address issues. “We are grateful to our members as well as the Forest Hills community for their patience

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and engagement throughout this process,” the West Side Tennis Club’s Board of Governors said in the release. “We look forward to building on this work in support of our membership, the Stadium’s continued success, and the benefit of the neighborhood we are proud to call home.” Per the Gardens Corp. board memo, the parties will first work together to resolve any disagreements. Minor disputes will be decided by an impartial referee if needed, and “only the most serious disputes are reserved for the courts.” “Reaching this agreement spares the Corporation — and therefore its members — the continued, substantial legal costs of fighting these disputes in court, which would have continued to run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, against a pre-settlement total Corporation annual budget of $2.5 million,” the Gardens Corp. memo reads. The association also had sued the city in federal court over the stadium concerts. The case, which alleged that the use of private streets for concert security without consent or compensation was unlawful, was settled in March. The latest agreement was the culmination of nine months of negotiations, the memo states, and was unanimously approved by the Gardens Corp. board. A new slate of members, who ran on seeking to resolve issues outside of court, Q was elected last year.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 26

Stadium, residents reach concert deal

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Around 100 kids on Oct. 17 attended a frightfully fun trunk or treat event hosted by the City Line Ozone Park Civilian Patrol in collaboration with the Our Neighbors Civic Association and hosted by the Goodman McDonald’s Group. The afternoon, at the McDonald’s parking lot at 75-20 Liberty Ave. in City Line, saw kids enjoying the sights of the spookily decorated vehicles while getting to dig into candy and activities. The City Line McDonald’s has partnered with COPCP to offer $3 and $9 meal deals. “It’s all about bringing our community together and giving our kids something to enjoy right here in their own neighborhood,” said Daniel Hill, communications director for COPCP and vice president of ONCA. — Kristen Guglielmo

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Astoria musician goes ‘single’ Astoria singer, musician, songwriter and band leader Bill Popp is hosting a singles party on Nov. 22. Just don’t expect to meet the love of your life. Popp, the front man for Bill Popp and the Tapes, will be celebrating the release of his new single, “Jenny,” from 2 to 6:30 p.m. at The Irish Whiskey Bar at 28-48 31 St. in Astoria. The public is welcome. Popp will be providing refreshments as well as a free CD or QR-code card at the door. Information is available at billpopp.com. Scheduled performers are Popp, The Repressions, Sera No H, Mary Noecker,

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 28

MTA likes the results of boro bus redesign Report to agency board says rides are faster, more reliable since 2025 by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Fourteen months after the second and final phase of the Queens Bus Redesign went into effect, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority was calling it a win at its board meeting on Monday. The agency, in a press release following the meeting, said Queens local buses are faster and more reliable, with new routes, extended routes and adjusted routes getting people to neighborhoods and key destinations quicker. “The Queens Bus Network Redesign is delivering on the promises of faster buses, greater reliability and increased access to jobs, education and more for the City’s most bus reliant borough,” said NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow. “These improvements are the result of years of community input to ensure a bus network for the modern era.” “Thanks to the redesign, Queens riders are spending less time waiting for the bus and less time on the bus which amounts to real times savings for New Yorkers,” said NYC Transit Executive Vice President of Buses Frank Farrell. The MTA said overal Queens local buses are traveling 1.7 percent faster on weekdays. Off-peak speeds increased 1.9 percent. Rush routes have seen an average 4.6 percent increase.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority Board on Monday was presented with solid results on the Queens Bus Redesign that went into effect in 2025. SCREENSHOT VIA MTA VIDEO “Citywide 24 out of 25 routes with the greatest speed increases from Spring 2025 to Spring 2026 occurred in Queens, the agency said. The original planning and outreach on the redesign took place before the Covid pandemic struck in 2020. Public feedback that had been accumulated up to that time led the

MTA to incorporate major changes. Phase 1 went into effect on June 29, 2025, with phase 2 kicking in two months later on Aug. 31. The MTA said Monday that since the rollout 124,000 more Queens residents have access to a bus that arrives every 10 minutes or better between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.; and

68,000 more Queens residents have access to 24-hour bus service. In a presentation to the board, Evan Bialostozky, the MTA’s senior director of network redesigns and special projects for bus service planning, showed data on subjects from routes with increased speed to changes that have been made based on customer feedback since the rollout. The entire presentation can be viewed online at tinyurl.com/yc25hjts. Charlton D’souza, founder and president of the advocacy group Passengers United, was unable to attend the board meeting. But reached by the Chronicle on Tuesday, the Queens Village resident said he was unimpressed by the MTA’s conclusions. “We’re not happy with the Queens Bus redesign,” D’souza said. “It’s just been one disaster after another. Right now, we haven’t been delivered what we were promised.” He said the Q82 route, which runs between the Jamaica bus depot and Belmont Park just across the Nassau County border, has not had the frequency of buses promised. “And if one bus is canceled, you could wait an hour,” D’souza said of the Queensbound service. He said he also has both seen and heard about many problems along the Q2 route that connects Jamaica and Queens Q Village.

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Community Board 7 is encouraging any nonprofit group within District 7 to apply for grants that are available through the Metropolitan Park Community Impact Fund. The program, operated by Hard Rock at Metropolitan Park, was created as part of the casino approval agreement with the consor tium building the entertainment complex in the parking lot at Citi Field. Board 7, in an email, said the Community Impact Fund website is now open for 2027 applications. Any nonprofit can apply by filling out an online application until Nov. 15 at metropolitanpark.com/fund. Those with questions can also contact the CB 7 office at (718) 359-2800. The fund is designed to support organizations and programs that serve Queens residents, especially the communities surrounding Willets Point. “This Fund reflects a core principle of Metropolitan Park: as the project grows, the surrounding community should grow with it,” the website states. It also states that the typical award is approximately $15,000 per Q organization. — Michael Gannon

Call for Sammy’s Law expansion Group includes BP Richards, three Queens CBs by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. is one of five signatories of a letter asking the city Department on Transportation to reduce speed limits on eligible streets under Sammy’s Law legislation. Richards and Borough Presidents Antonio Reynoso of Brooklyn and Brad Hoylman-Sigal of Manhattan have signed a letter to Transportation Commissioner Mike Flynn, asking the DOT for lower limits in the 17 community districts whose boards have requested them. Those include Community Boards 1, 2 and 6 in Queens. The letter, drafted and signed by Comptroller Mark Levine, also is signed by Councilman Shaun Abreau (D-Manhattan), chairman of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Under Sammy’s Law, enacted by the state in 2024, the city has the authority to reduce speed limits to 20 miles per hour on individual streets, and as low as 10 on “select” streets undergoing safety redesigns. “Sammy’s Law provides New York City with an important tool to reduce dangerous driving and prevent serious injuries and traffic deaths by lowering speed limits across the City,” the letter states. “Mayor Mamdani has committed to reducing speed limits on streets immediately adjacent to schools, which is an

Three Queens community boards want to reduce speeds on a number of streets. PHOTO BY MICHAEL APPLETON / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE

important step in the right direction, but not enough on its own.” The letter says 63 elected officials have called on the DOT to expand implementation of Sammy’s Law.

“The evidence is clear: lower speed limits save lives,” the letter states. “When New York City previously reduced the speed on citywide streets from 30 to 25 mph, total crashes decreased by 39 percent on streets with posted signage. New York City was able to halve fatality rates when crashes occur. “In this year alone, cars have struck and killed four children in our city. One child dying on our city streets is one too many. By ensuring that children have safe routes to school, New York City can move closer to becoming a national model for family-friendly street design.” The DOT is examining the letter. “As we recently announced in Vision Zero Reimagined, the Mamdani administration is committed to reducing speed limits within entire neighborhoods or other defined zones throughout the five boroughs,” DOT spokesman Will Livingston told the Chronicle in an email. “And we look forward to sharing more details about this effort in the coming months. This commitment is in addition to our ongoing work to utilize Sammy’s Law to install 15 MPH school zones at every eligible school, with hundreds already installed and a goal for 800 to be in place by the end of the year.” The other approvals have come from Boards 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 11 in Manhattan; Boards 1, 2, 4, 6, 7 and 8 in Brooklyn; Q and Boards 5, 6 and 11 in the Bronx.

Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

Metropolitan Park grants

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BEAT

Yanks stay the course by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

The Yankees have decided to stay the course, announcing last month that General Manager Brian Cashman had signed a new contract as he will be entering his 30th year in that job, and that Manager Aaron Boone will be returning as skipper in 2027. There was some anger from Bronx Bombers fans who are frustrated their team has not won a World Series in 17 years, the longest such drought in their history. I get the frustration, but perspective is needed. Yankees fans have become as obsessed with a World Series championship as Captain Ahab was with Moby Dick. They forget the team has not had a losing season since 1992 and has been in the playoffs eight of the last nine years. The Atlanta Braves are in the same predicament, as they’ve only won one title in the last 30 years. Islanders co-owner Jon Ledecky addressed a panel on sports marketing at the recent National Association of Broadcasters conference in Manhattan. Ledecky spoke about the difficulty of getting folks to get off their sofas with their large high-definition TVs, where they can watch a hockey game as if they are in the building, to come to a game. He spoke passionately of the importance of making the in-game experience as special as possible for fans; expanding the fan base; and encouraging Islanders players to be active in

social media and get endorsement deals on their own as a way of engaging those who may not be hockey fans. He conceded that the NHL old guard, including former Isles President Lou Lamoriello, would be apoplectic about players thinking of themselves as individuals instead of thinking only about the name on the front of the jersey. Ledecky also cited the HBO drama “Heated Rivalry” for attracting female fans. WFAN’s Craig Carton also spoke at the NAB show. Carton, who works with the sportsbook FanDuel as a responsible gambling ambassador, spoke about his addiction issues. “I was betting on greyhound races in Tijuana! I had no idea there were dog tracks there!” Carton told me it’s a bit of a myth that betting addicts don’t care if they win or lose, they just want action. “It’s better to win of course, but the highs of winning decline while the lows of losing are not as devastating.” The Jets humiliated themselves again Sunday, losing to the previously winless Miami Dolphins, 28-25. They trailed 21-7 at halftime, but in the fourth quarter and down 21-14, they had a first down on the Dolphins’ 1-yard line. Instead of scoring an easy touchdown, they proceeded to march backward, settling for a field goal. That sealed their fate, and probably marked the beginning of the end for Head Coach Aaron Glenn. Q See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

PHOTO VIA NEW YORK METS / X

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 30

SPORTS

Lindor wins Clemente Award Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor on Oct. 26 won the 2026 Roberto Clemente Award, Major League Baseball’s highest off-field honor, at a ceremony before Game 3 of the World Series at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla. The award, named for the renowned Puerto Rican baseball star and humanitarian, honors an MLB player who best combines character, community involvement and philanthropy. Lindor, a four-time nominee, is the fifth-ever Puerto Rican recipient. He is also the fifth Met to win it while with the club. Since 2020, Lindor has donated more than $1 million toward a middle school build-

ing at his alma mater, Montverde Academy in Florida, and started a scholarship fund there, according to an MLB press release. After hurricanes Maria and Fiona, he funded relief and restored athletic facilities in Caguas, PR. This year, at home in Queens, Lindor, center left, launched Lindor’s Leaders, a mentorship program for sports medicine students at Bayside High School. Lindor, a five-time All-Star and two-time Gold Glove winner, told reporters Monday that the accolade is a “huge honor,” and added, “That’s what life is all about — taking care of the people that actually need guidance and help.” — Kristen Guglielmo

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Page 31 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

ARTS, C ARTS CULTURE & LIVING

A e

Don’t miss your turn to see the game played out onstage

here’s just one weekend left to find out whodunit, where and with what. St. Mary’s Drama Guild’s production of “Clue” is hilarious, quick-witted, often shocking and absolutely worth seeing. A farcical murder mystery based on the classic board game and 1985 film, the play keeps audience members guessing from beginning to end — if they stop laughing for long enough to try to piece it together. On a dark and stormy night in the 1950s against the backdrop of McCarthyism, six pseudonymous guests — Miss Scarlet (Grey Sercl), Professor Plum (Jason Fischedick), Mrs. Peacock (Lizette Suxo),

Mr. Green (Thomas Palumbo), Colonel Mustard (Dennis Schroeder) and Mrs. White (Farah DiazTello) — are invited to dinner at Boddy Manor. They arrive with various shades of color and hostility, as they are greeted by butler Wadsworth (Rich Feldman) and maid Yvette (Shannon McDavid) without knowing who or where their host, Mr. Boddy (Mary Brownlee), is. After cocktail hour — which is more like a minute — and a dinner that raises more questions than answers, the guests learn they are being blackmailed by their host, for various salacious and “unAmerican” activities. “It’s definitely a cool way of understanding what people back then were dealing with and fearing, in keeping up this traditional aspect of being a perfect

A American,” i ” director di t Kerryclare K l G Gleason l said. id Each guest is given a weapon, and the chance to use it and get off scot-free. But once the stage goes black, Mr. Boddy turns up dead and no one fesses up, the play spirals into much more than a whodunit. Rather, the question becomes, where are all these dead bodies coming from, and why is it so unclear who at the dinner party of six is the culprit? The show does move too quickly for attendees to really mull it over — with little breathing room, it is so well-paced that it feels shorter than its runtime. “It’s a beast of a show,” Gleason said. “Even though it seems simplistic on the outside, there are a lot of moving parts.” continued on page 33

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Stephanie G. Meditz

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 32 For the latest news visit qchron.com

boro

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

King Crossword Puzzle Jackie Hoffman said ‘Oy!’ to her life in Bayside

ACROSS

1 Personal 4 Poi base 8 Fraud 12 Romance 13 -- incline (tilted) 14 Unruly groups 15 Message from an admirer 17 Border on 18 On an angle 19 Vinyl records 21 Before 22 “Darn it!” 26 Scrabble pieces 29 Movie format 30 “Little piggie” 31 Rd. crossers 32 Grant’s foe 33 1982 sci-fi film 34 “The Newsroom” actor Patel 35 Farm grazer 36 Resided 37 “I, Robot” author 39 Lanka lead-in 40 Storm center 41 Sculpted trunks 45 Sagan or Sandburg 48 Romantic Ella Fitzgerald song 50 Squad 51 -- Stanley Gardner 52 PC linking system 53 Short cuts 54 Snitched 55 Vintage

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

DOWN 1 They give a hoot 2 Scarf material 3 De -- (from the start) 4 Printer refills 5 Battery part 6 Squealer 7 Bob Marley hit song 8 Big hit 9 Corn core 10 -- Dhabi 11 Rockies hrs.

16 Tools for duels 20 Third degree? 23 To be, in Tours 24 “Neato!” 25 Superman’s alias 26 “There!” 27 Currier’s partner 28 Jeans maker Strauss 29 Morning moisture 32 Mini-shutout at Wimbledon 33 Spin

35 Demure 36 Buzzed 38 Thaws 39 Unmoving 42 Aviator’s milestone 43 Track shape 44 Email command 45 Young lion 46 Year in Spain 47 Chest bone 49 Granada gold

Answers on next page

Wallace Reid Hoffman was born on Sept. 7, 1920. Wallace Reid was a major silent film star at the time, which may have contributed to the newborn’s Jewish family giving him the highly unorthodox name. Hoffman served honorably during World War II, and when discharged married Charlotte Kirschner in 1946. They quickly had two sons, Harvey and Lawrence, while living with her parents in their house on East 10th Street in Brooklyn. Wallace worked as a successful artist for an advertising agency and provided very well for his family. In 1951, they purchased a brand-new home at 64-59 215 St. in Bayside (in the area that came to be known as Oakland Gardens). They had a daughter, and then eight years later, on Nov. 29 1960, their final child, Jacqueline Laura, was born. Mother Charlotte kept an ultraorthodox home and decided to send the last child to Young Israel of Windsor Park, a private yeshiva a six-minute walk from the house. Jackie, who craved attention as a child, quickly became a comedian, acting up so

The childhood home of comedian Jackie Hoffman was at 64-59 215 St. in Oakland Gardens, seen here as it looks today. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET BY PHILIP ROMANO VIA WIKIPEDIA

people could see her natural-born talent. A singer, actress and member of The Second City comedy troupe, Hoffman became known for her one-woman shows with Jewish-themed monologues, such as “The Kvetching Continues.” She married Steven Smythe in 2008. Today she is constantly working either on Broadway or off, and is at the top of her game with a huge fan base callQ ing her “The Queen of Self-Loathing.”

by Michael Shain qboro contributor

As years go, it’s hard to beat 1926. That was the year Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Jimmy Heath were born. Three giants of modern jazz all entered the world within a span of five months. Much has been written about the centennials of Miles and Coltrane this year, not to mention scads of tribute shows. Now it’s Master Heath’s turn. (More on that title later.) When Jimmy Heath died in 2020, at age 93, he left behind two of Queens’ most important jazz institutions. Heath founded the jazz studies program at Queens College’s Aaron Copland School of Music in 1986, then went on to create and conduct the Queens Jazz Orchestra starting in 2006. The college has turned out a few significant players but its greatest contribution has been to train teachers, who have spread the gospel of jazz. The QJO, however, is a unique proposition — a big band assembled once a year for one night only. Its players are among the most sought-after session musicians and sidemen in the jazz world. They work for minimum wage simply because Master Heath asked them to.

Antonio Hart, left, will lead the annual Queens Jazz Orchestra show at Flushing Town PHOTOS BY MICHAEL SHAIN Hall Nov. 7, dedicated to the late Master Jimmy Heath, right. That was the kind of cachet he had. The QJO is set to perform Nov. 7 at Flushing Town Hall under the direction of Heath’s former student and designated musical heir, Antonio Hart, the Grammynominated saxophonist and bandleader. Info is at flushingtownhall.org. The performance will be dedicated to the life and music of the orchestra’s founder. Notably, the lineup of the 17-piece group has hardly changed, even five years after Heath’s death.

“They want to be there because of Master Heath,” said Hart. “I don’t believe I ever called him by his first name,” he added. “Never in my life called him Jimmy. Always Master Heath.” Heath’s work as a saxophonist has regrettably been overshadowed by his career as a composer and one of the most celebrated jazz arrangers of his generation. He specialized in making others sound good. Over a career spanning half a century,

Heath managed to record more than a dozen albums as a bandleader and another 10 with his brothers, Percy and Tootie. Hart said it was too early to have a set list for Nov. 7, but there is plenty to choose from. Miles Davis, Ray Charles, Chet Baker and Cannonball Adderley, among others, recorded Jimmy’s compositions. In 2023, Hart stepped down as head of the Queens College jazz program (he remains a professor) to attend to his own substantial career. Now, the orchestra’s future — the other half of Heath’s Queens legacy — is precarious. Last year, federal arts funding disappeared, threatening to cancel the annual concert altogether. Hart saved the date by substituting his own small band for the much larger orchestra. It was a close call. “Every year, we are not sure until the last minute if we are going to be able to do the show,” said Hart. “It’s been up and down.” And until the orchestra has a secure funding source, Hart sees little point in contemplating who might someday succeed him. For now, the question isn’t who will lead the Queens Jazz Orchestra after Hart. It’s if there will be a Queens Jazz OrchesQ tra to lead.

Page 33 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

Master Heath’s jazz lives on — will his orchestra?

See death in living color, for one more weekend

Crossword Answers

For all that it involves murder and dark history, “Clue” always leans into ridiculousness as a farce. Each member of the cast gives a performance as colorful as his or her costume, to say the least. The show comes to a crescendo toward the end of Act 2, when the audience finally finds out the real story — but getting there is a rigmarole of repetitions, rewinds, accusations and untruths. Every member of the cast shines there, but Feldman is particularly excellent as Wadsworth. He draws out a moment that could have lasted seconds into several minutes, and you never know what he is going to say or do next. Also remarkable is the actors’ stamina, as each role has specific physical demands — whether that means getting into a compromising position with a doll or collapsing in a manner evocative of slapstick. There are just two chances left to visit Boddy Manor, via St. Mary’s Winfield Church. A special Halloween performance is set for 7 p.m. Oct. 31, and for $55, guests can experience an interactive pre-show buffet dinner at 6 p.m. Costumes are encouraged, and trick-or-treat bags will be given.

There’s never a dull moment during “Clue,” whether those at Boddy Manor try to look normal despite the chaos behind closed doors, left, or lean into the madness. On the PHOTOS BY KERRYCLARE GLEASON cover: The characters are colorful in more ways than one. The final show is at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 1. Tickets are at stmarysdramaguild. org/tickets and run $22 to $25, or $15 for kids under 13. One may call (347) 4506184 or email stmarysdramaguild@gmail. com to learn more. “Hopefully, they take away that, for an

hour and a half, they had a break from our reality and got to see a bunch of people die for the stupidity of our country and our political schemes,” Gleason said. “But also that ... life shouldn’t be taken as seriously as we do. Everything should be a Q good time.”

For the latest news visit qchron.com

continued from page 31 The production replicates a large manor on a small stage, meaning different rooms are simply situated on opposite sides of it, or directly in front. That proximity gives the show an even more chaotic element, particularly when the tight space is filled with even more bodies and a cop (Jonathan Schweizer) arrives unexpectedly, leaving everyone scrambling to look normal.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 34

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We are seeking a dedicated Part-Time Instructor to support below-level 6th-grade students with IEPs or 504 plans. • Pay: $55-$60 per 45-minute session • Schedule: Part-time 2 days per week, 4 sessions per day. • Curriculum: Math & Literacy • Core Duties: Develop and implement standard-aligned, differentiated lesson plans; assess student performance; maintain accurate records; and collaborate with staff • Requirements: Degree in Education (or related field) from an accredited university, minimum 2 years’ experience as a lead classroom teacher, and proven experience working with the Special Education community. • Preferred Skills: Experience with S.P.I.R.E. curriculum, and Orton-Gillingham approach

CDL Drivers with P & S endorsements. Also looking for Qualified Mechanics Benefits, Competitive Salaries, Paid Holidays & Pension. Job placements in Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 36

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summoned to appear at the offices of the MENTOR Notarial Professional Partnership, located at 28-30 Polona Street, Sector 1, Bucharest, Romania, Postal Code 010492 (str. Polona, nr. 28-30, Sector 1, Bucure~ti, CP 01 0492), telephone +40 21 319 3502, email: mentor@ent. ro, on November 16, 2026, at 12:00 p.m., as a party in Probate File No. 37/2026 concerning the estate of the late Ghita Mircea, who died on November 25, 2022, whose last domicile was in New York, Personal Identification Number 1490423104963. The matter concerns the distribution of the estate, consisting of a two-room apartment located in Bucharest, Romania. Maria Tereza Rodriguez is requested to appear at the scheduled hearing in the probate proceedings, retain an attorney, or execute a notarized statement waiving participation in the probate proceedings. If the duly summoned party fails to appear, the probate proceedings will be conducted in her absence, in accordance with the applicable legal provisions.

Notice is hereby given that an OnPremise Restaurant Liquor License, NYS Application ID: NA-034026-130796 has been applied for by 20X Hospitality at Long Island City LLC to sell liquor, beer, wine and cider at retail in an on-premises restaurant establishment. For on premises consumption under the ABC Law at 23-20 Jackson Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11101. Notice is hereby given that an

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

Apts. For Rent

Apts. For Rent Middle Village, 64-04 78 St, #2. 2 BR, 1 bath. $2,800/mo. Renovated apt. New kitchen, SS appliances, HW floors throughout, recessed lighting. Heat & hot water incl. Avail NOW. Call Magdalena Sliwa, 347-415-7507, Capri Jet Realty Staten Island, 105 Mersereau Ave, 3 BR, 2 bath, $3,000/mo. Fully renov, W/D, SS, dishwasher, kitchen island, huge LR, DR. Small pets ok. Available NOW. Call Agata Landa 914-255-7284. Capri Jet Realty

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Borough Park, 1031 41 St, #1. 3 BR, 1 bath. $3,000/mo. Ex-lg apt, kitchen island, walk-in closet, living/dining room. Water incl. Avail NOW. Call Stellina Napolitano, Classified Ad Deadline is 12 Noon 646-372-7145. Capari Jet Realty on Tuesday for Thursday’s paper. Notice is hereby given that an On-Premise Restaurant Liquor License, NYS Application ID: NA-0340-26-129484 has been applied for by SSP America JFK T6 LLC to sell liquor, beer, wine and cider at retail in an on-premises restaurant establishment. For on premises consumption under the ABC Law at JFK International Airport, Terminal 6, Space FB2-11 Jamaica, NY 11430.

8233

and care of its residents.

Notice of Formation of 107-09 LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/21/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: LISA FRANCOIS, 237 JUANITA AVENUE, FREEPORT, NY 11520. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

93-13 ROOSEVELT AVENUE LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/02/2026. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: James K.C. Tom, 23 Willow Street, Little Neck, NY 11363. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premise Restaurant Liquor License, NYS Application ID: NA-0340-26-130214 has been applied for by SSP America JFK T5 LLC to sell liquor, beer, wine and cider at retail in an on-premises restaurant establishment. For on premises consumption under the ABC Law at JFK International Airport, Terminal 5, Space #31EC1&2 Jamaica NY 11430.

Notice of Formation of 441 WHITE PROPERTY LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/14/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: LUIS F NARVAEZ MARQUEZ, 4005 94TH STREET FL2, ELMHURST, NY 11373. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of ARROWS & TORCHES LLC. Articles of Org. filed with NY Secy. of State (SSNY) on 12/21/2023. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC for service of process. SSNY shall mail process to Asing Brereton, 25-28 Beach Channel Drive, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

On Premises Tavern Full Liquor License, Application ID CL-26101746-01 has been applied for by American Multi-Cinema Inc d/b/a AMC Bay Terrace 6 serving beer, wine, cider, mead and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a movie theatre for the premises located at 21101 26th Ave, Bayside, NY 11360-2492.

Ozanam Hall does not discriminate with regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or disability in the admission

267

LLC,

Arts.

Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/26/2026. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 267 08 82nd Ave., Floral Park, NY 11004. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of DO BETTER TRAINING AND CONSULTING LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/23/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: BASHAN FERNANDEZ, 34-12 113TH STREET 6B, CORONA, NY 11368. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of QspaceCrafter LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/27/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: QSPACECRAFTER LLC, 58-48 256 ST, LITTLE NECK, NY 11362. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of THE FLOOR GLOBAL LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/14/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 31-68 34th Street, Apt B1, Astoria, NY 11106, also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

X-NOROC REALTY HOLDING, LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 10/23/26. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 70-13 68th Pl., Glendale, NY 11385, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of ASTRONOMICAL VENTURES LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/06/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ZENBUSINESS INC. 41 STATE STREET, SUITE 112, ALBANY, NY 12207. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of FAUSTO CONSULTING LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/21/2024. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 717 119TH ST, COLLEGE POINT, NY 11356. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of REPLAY WORKS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/22/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: REPLAY WORKS LLC, 8808 JUSTICE AVE, APT. 12B, ELMHURST, NY 11373. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION of UNITY BLOSSOM LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on April 1, 2026. Office located in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of any process to: 4298 SAULL STREET, FLUSHING, NY 11355. Purpose: any lawful act.

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BRICKWELL STORIES LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/03/2021. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 34-02 Laurel Hill Blvd., Ste 2, Maspeth, NY 11378. Reg Agent: Sarah Taylor, 4611 54th Ave., Ste 2, Maspeth 11378. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of GC Commerce Group LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/23/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: GC COMMERCE GROUP LLC, 13825 101ST AVENUE, JAMAICA, NY 11435. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SFS BURNS LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/02/2026. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Joan Jiong Jiong Zhou, 106 Mowbray Dr, Kew Gardens, NY 11415. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of JR HANDYMAN SOLUTIONS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/09/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY HERNAN DURAN JR, 16805 32ND AVE 2ND FL, FLUSHING, NY 11358. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE

any lawful act.

Notice of Formation of Meridian House LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/28/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: MERIDIAN HOUSE LLC, 221 MALT DR., APT 2305, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of SNUGGO LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/11/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: NORTHWEST REGISTERED AGENT LLC, 418 BROADWAY, STE N, ALBANY, NY 12207. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of L’ATELIER CRIOLLO LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/12/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: FREDI O TITO, 4536 49TH STREET APT 1A, WOODSIDE, NY 11377. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Cornerstone Villette Estates LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/20/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: SOPHIA NAN, 111-40 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of MOMS R US LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/15/2026. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: VALERIA PAVA, 8843 185 ST, HOLLIS, NY 11423. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT COUNT Y OF QUEENS. FORETHOUGHT LIFE I N S U R A N C E C O M P A N Y, Plaintif f -agains t- R O Q U E E S TAT E D E V E LO P M E N T LLC, et al Defendant ( s ) . Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated December 15, 2025, I, the u n d e r s i g n e d R e f e r e e w ill sell at public auction at the Queens Count y Supreme Cour thouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., in C our troom # 25, Jamaica, N Y on November 2 0 , 2 0 2 6 a t 10 : 0 0 a . m . premises situate, lying and being in t he B or ough and County of Queens, City and S tate of New York, known and designated as Block 1396 Lot 5. Said premises k n o w n a s 3 1- 0 8 8 5 T H STREET, QUEENS, NY 11370 Approximate amount of lien $733,788.47 plus interest & cos t s. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 7 0 5 2 0 1 / 2 0 2 4 . C A R O LY N C LY N E , E S Q ., R e f e r e e, DRUCKMAN L AW GROUP PLLC, Attorney(s) for Plaintiff, 242 Drexel Avenue, Westbury, NY 11590, DLG # 39539. {* QUEENS CHR*}

FORMATION

BUG WORKS NEW YORK LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on August 5, 2025. Office located in Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process may be served. process to: 6218 68th Ave #2L, Ridgewood, NY 11385. Purpose:

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Stavlos Properties LLC filed 3/19/26. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail to: 3533 31st

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Page 37 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

Notice of formation of the limited liability company (LLC). 1359 PINSON LLC Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 8/31/2026. NY Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is 20W 47 ST 1202, NEW YORK, NY 10036. Purpose/ character of LLC: Any Lawful Purpose. The LLC is formed pursuant to Section 206 of the New York Limited Liability Company Law.

NOTICE OF SALE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026 Page 38 For the latest news visit qchron.com

NOTICE OF SA LE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY FREEDOM MORTGAGE C O R P O R AT I O N, Plaintif f against A BDOOL Z A HEER R AMJIT T A / K /A ABDOOL Z. R AMJITT, et al Defendant(s) At torney for Plaintiff ( s ) McCalla Raymer Leiber t Pierce, LLC, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered December 16 , 2 0 2 5 , I w ill s ell a t public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, C o u r t r o o m # 2 5 , 8 8 -11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on November 20, 2026 at 10:00AM. Premises k n o w n a s 110 - 3 1 19 6 t h Street, Saint Albans, N Y 11412. Block 10936 Lot 209. A ll that cer t ain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected situate, lying a nd b eing in t he B o r o ugh and County of Queens, City a n d S t a t e o f N ew Yo r k . Approximate Amount of J udgmen t is $ 5 6 2, 8 97.7 3 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be s old subjec t to pr ovisions of filed Judgment Index No 708334 / 2024. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s C o v i d -19 P o l i c i e s a n d foreclo sure auc tion r ules. T he 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 For sale information, please contact XOME at www.Xome. com or call (844)400-9633. F r a n c e s Ye t t a R uiz, E s q., Referee File # 23-13993NY Notice of Formation of ONE FISH TANK LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/16/2026. Office location: Queens County. Principal business address: 245-74 62nd Avenue, 6A Upper, Douglaston, NY 11362. SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the same address. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.

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 #: 721477/2025 U.S. Bank Trust National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Owner Trustee For RCF 2 Acquisition Trust Plaintiff, vs Johnny Velez 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, Webster Bank, NA FKA Sterling Bank, New York City Parking Violations Bureau, New York City Environmental Control Board, New York City Department Of Housing Preservation And Development, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS John Doe (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 35-12 109th Street Corona, NY 11368 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 Johnny Velez, Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Karina E. Alomar of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Fourteenth day of October, 2026 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 September 26, 2003, executed by Johnny Velez to secure the sum of $430,000.00. The Mortgage was recorded at CRFN 2003000499079 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on December 10, 2003. Plaintiff is also holder of a mortgage dated April 21, 2005 executed by Johnny Velez to secure the sum of $102,753.21 and recorded at CRFN 2005000286132 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on May 17, 2005. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 2, 2004 and recorded on May 17, 2005, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2005000286131. Said mortgage was consolidated with the mortgage referred to at CRFN: 2003000499079 by a Consolidation, Extension and Modification Agreement executed by Johnny Velez dated April 21, 2005 and recorded May 17, 2005 at CRFN 2005000286133 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County to form a single lien in the amount of $525,000.00. Plaintiff is also holder of a mortgage dated August 22, 2006 executed by Johnny Velez to secure the sum of $101,870.20 and recorded at CRFN 2006000578601 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on October 17, 2006. Said mortgage was consolidated with the mortgage referred to at CRFN: 2005000286133 by a Consolidation, Extension and Modification Agreement executed by Johnny Velez dated August 22, 2006 and recorded October 17, 2006 at CRFN 2006000578602 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County to form a single lien in the amount of $618,750.00. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed March 11, 2008 and recorded on March 31, 2008, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2008000128095. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by a corrective assignment executed December 3, 2012 and recorded on December 11, 2012, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2012000484660. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 3, 2012 and recorded on December 11, 2012, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2012000484338. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 30, 2015 and recorded on December 8, 2015, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2015000434390. The mortgage was subsequently modified on December 2, 2022. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 4, 2024 and recorded on September 26, 2024, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2024000252649. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed February 4, 2025 and recorded on February 13, 2025, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2025000040831. The property in question is described as follows: 35-12 109th Street, Corona, NY 11368 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: October 22, 2026 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. 91923

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SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX NO. 721452/2024 Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 228-05 69TH AVENUE, BAYSIDE, NY 11364. U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCF 2 ACQUISITION TRUST Plaintiff, vs. LAWRENCE SAND AKA LARRY SAND, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL SCHLOSSHEIMER; KAREN TREIBER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL SCHLOSSHEIMER; ALAN KATKIN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL SCHLOSSHEIMER; JULIE LAVETAN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL SCHLOSSHEIMER; FREDDI CORREALE AKA JEAN F MARTIN, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JOANNE MAZZARESE; FRANCINE BRETHEL AKA FRANCINE CORREALE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JOANNE MAZZARESE; DONOVAN MARTINE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JOANNE MAZZARESE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL SCHLOSSHEIMER; LINDA FAMIGLIETTI AKA LINDA PRELLER, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JOANNE MAZZARESE; JOANNE HARRIS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL SCHLOSSHEIMER, if living, and if she/he 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 the following designation, namely: the 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; ROSANNE CORREALE AKA ROSANNE WARDLE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JOANNE MAZZARESE, if living, and if she/he 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 the following designation, namely: the 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; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL SCHLOSSHEIMER, 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 the following designation, namely: the 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; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF JOANNE MAZZARESE, 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 the following designation, namely: the 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; BOARD OF MANAGERS OF THE PARKRIDGE CONDOMINIUM; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; JOHN DOE; “JOHN DOE “and “JANE DOE, “said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate ant and all occupants, tenants, persons, or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other 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. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $152,075.00 and interest, recorded on January 26, 2004, , of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 228-05 69TH AVENUE, BAYSIDE, NY 11364. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. 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 the mortgage company will not stop the 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: August 17th, 2026 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Christopher Pinckney, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

Page 39 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 29, 2026

File No.: 2024-1817/B CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY THE GRACE OF GOD, FREE AND INDEPENDENT To: Thomas J. Faulkner, Jr., Ann Marie Faulkner Walulak, Kathleen Yanni, John Charles McDonald, Patrick McDonald, Michael McDonald, Erin Louise McDonald, Estate of Brian McDonald, Chance Santoro, Christa Mae MacNeil, Megan Lee MconaldGeggatt, Shannon Fields, Attorney General of the State of New York The unknown distributees, legatees, devisees, heirs at law and assignees of Mary Sullo aka Mary Joan Sullo, deceased, or their estates, if any there be, whose names, places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the petitioner and cannot with due diligence be ascertained Being the persons interested as creditors, legatees, distributees or otherwise in the Estate of Mary Sullo aka Mary Joan Sullo, deceased, who at the time of death was a resident of 142-12 41st Avenue, Apt. 4D, Flushing, NY 11355, in the County of Queens, State of New York. SEND GREETING: Upon the petition of JACQUELINE M. MAZZOLA, Public Administrator of Queens County, who maintains her office at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, Queens County, New York 11435, as Administrator of the Estate of Mary Sullo aka Mary Joan Sullo, deceased, you and each of you are hereby cited to show cause before the Surrogate at the Surrogate’s Court of the County of Queens, to be held at the Queens General Courthouse, 6th Floor, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, City and State of New York, on the 3rd day of December, 2026 at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon, why the Account of Proceedings of the Public Administrator of Queens County, as Administrator of the Estate of said deceased, a copy of which is attached, should not be judicially settled, and why the Surrogate should not fix and allow a reasonable amount of compensation to GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., for legal services rendered to petitioner herein in the amount of $62,108.99 and that the Court fix the fair and reasonable additional fee for any services to be rendered by GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., hereafter in connection with proceedings on kinship, claims etc., prior to entry of a final Decree on this accounting in the amount of 5.5% of assets or income collected after the date of the within accounting; and why the Surrogate should not fix and allow an amount equal to one percent on said Schedules of the total assets on Schedules A, A1, and A2 plus any additional monies received subsequent to the date of this account, as the fair and reasonable amount payable to the Office of the Public Administrator for the expenses of said office pursuant to S.C.P.A. §1106(3); and why each of you claiming to be a distributee of the decedent should not establish proof of your kinship; and why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship, or deposited with the Commissioner of Finance of the City of New York should said alleged distributees default herein, or fail to establish proof of kinship, Dated, Attested and Sealed 15th day of September, 2026 HON. CASSANDRA A. JOHNSON Surrogate, Queens County Janet Edwards Tucker Chief Clerk GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ. (718) 459-9000. 100 Jericho Quadrangle, Suite 328, Jericho, NY 11753 NOTICE: THIS CITATION IS SERVED UPON YOU AS REQUIRED BY LAW. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO APPEAR; HOWEVER, IF YOU FAIL TO APPEAR IT WILL BE ASSUMED YOU DO NOT OBJECT TO THE RELIEF REQUESTED. YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO HAVE AN ATTORNEY APPEAR FOR YOU, AND YOU OR YOUR ATTORNEY MAY REQUEST A COPY OF THE FULL ACCOUNT FROM THE PETITIONER OR PETITIONER’S ATTORNEY Accounting Citation

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Queens Chronicle 10-29-26