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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 2
Pols vote to expand street vendor permits Thousands more applications could become available annually, if enacted by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor
S
treet vendors abound in many Queens commercial hubs, including Corona Plaza and downtown Flushing. That could be even more true in the coming years — the City Council last Thursday voted 39-9 to expand the number of licenses that can be issued. Intro. 431B, a bill introduced by Councilmember Pierina Sanchez (D-Bronx), seeks to expand the number of licenses available to sell food and merchandise on the streets — 2,200 more supervisory license applications would be available to prospective food vendors annually from 2026 to 2031, and 10,500 new general vending licenses would be made available in 2027. “This is a historic add to the merchandise vending industry, because since the cap was placed back in 1979, this number hasn’t changed,” said Mohamed Attia, managing director of the Street Vendor Project. Licenses to sell goods other than food have been capped at 853 for decades. Many street vendors in and beyond Queens also are immigrants, both with and without legal status. Some supporters of the bill contend that outdated licensing limits bar vendors from doing business legally, increasing the risk faced by immigrants who could face
If Intro. 431B is enacted, more licenses will be made available to street vendors selling goods other than food, such as the above clothing seller in Flushing. PHOTO BY AARON MOK detention or deportation. Sanchez’s legislation also would expand vendor training, raise the amount of enforcement agents required to inspect setups, increase civil penalties for certain siting violations and allow license suspension and revocations for three violations of certain restrictions within a year. Intro. 1251A, a bill by Council Majority Leader Amanda Farías (D-Bronx) that passed
40-8, requires the city Departments of Health and Mental Hygiene and Consumer and Worker Protection to make the respective applications for supervisory licenses and general vending licenses available, as per the timelines established in Intro. 431B. But since not every application released would result in a license, there could be fewer licenses issued than are authorized.
Among the former bill’s dissenters was Councilmember Sandra Ung (D-Flushing). She said that while she understands the rationale behind it, she has seen in her district that illegal vending continues “unabated,” even with more enforcement. “Expanding the total number of licenses does not address the fundamental issue of how to manage persistent unlicensed vending like we see in downtown Flushing, which is already a strict no-vending zone and has been since 2018,” Ung said in a statement. Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) was a nay on both. She called for a “reasonable limit” on how many vendors operate, or else streets will turn into “open air markets,” which is not fair to mom-and-pop shops. “We need to have a balance where vendors can make a living without drowning out the brick and mortar stores that have traditionally been the backbones of our communities,” Ariola said in an emailed statement. There also is a licensing “backlog” due to low staffing levels that the legislation’s passage would worsen, she said. Public Advocate Jumaane Williams’ bill, Intro. 408A, passed 47-1, with Councilwoman Darlene Mealy (D-Brooklyn) the sole dissenter. It would create a new Division of Street Vendor Assistance in the city’s Department continued on page 9
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YEAR IN REVIEW
2025
SOUTH QUEENS: PART I
Times of reckoning and resilience
Major decisions, crises and events that brought people together by Kristen Guglielmo
MTA employees parking there while the Howard Beach-JFK Airport A train station was undergoing construction for 17 weeks. An MTA spokesperson said the agency was made aware of the situation and reminded transit workers that they are expected to follow all parking regulations and be considerate of community members. Gov. Hochul on Feb. 20 announced she would not remove Mayor Adams from office after he faced numerous calls to resign amid accusations of a quid pro quo with President Trump’s Justice Department. The federal judge had not yet dismissed the charges as the Justice Department requested, instead delaying a ruling.
Editor
In the first half of the year, South Queens showed its many faces. There were victories for accessibility, education and public space, alongside devastating crimes and hard questions about leadership and safety. There were parades, murals, student achievements and quiet acts of civic pride — reminders that even in turbulent times, the borough’s sense of community endures. See Part II next week for the second half of 2025. January Supporters of QueensLink, a project that would use the abandoned Rockaway Beach Branch rail line to create the borough’s first nor th-south subway route, on Jan. 10 announced it had received a $400,00 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, part of the agency’s Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program under former President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funds were to be used to perform a study of the proposed project’s impacts. Officials on Jan. 23 cut the ribbon on Resorts World New York City’s Experience Center, which showcases its redevelopment proposal for a full-scale casino and was lauded by area movers and shakers for its community benefits. The MTA on Jan. 24 announced the completion of two elevators at the Woodhaven Boulevard J/Z subway station, making the stop fully accessible. Upgrades included the elevators, two new stairways, four replaced stairways and ADA boarding areas. Seven men were indicted on Jan. 24 for their alleged roles in a shooting at a baby shower in Richmond Hill in May 2024, which saw one man killed and three others injured. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said the scene at the baby shower was like something “out of the Wild West.” Assembly member Jenifer Rajk u mar (D-Woodhaven) on Jan. 27 announced she
Residents of Howard Beach were frustrated by the congestion and lack of regard for parking rules around Coleman Square while the A train to Rockaway underwent resiliency repairs for 17 weeks, from January to May. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN / FILE would primary the incumbent Public Advocate Jumaane Williams in June, running on a more moderate Democrat platform than her DSA-backed opponent. February Swans took to the streets of Howard Beach in late January and early February. Two area wildlife rehabilitators, Brina Ciaramella and Jeanine Riekers, advised residents to not feed the birds, as that was encouraging them to leave the water and roam near homes. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards on Feb. 3 announced more than $24.7 million in capital funding for the borough’s schools, including $4 million for a new culinary arts kitchen at Jamaica Educational Campus.
Richmond Hill’s annual Phagwah Parade in March drew tens of thousands of spectators, left, and a raucous late night car meet in Ozone Park that month saw people vandalizing cop vehicles and disrupting the peace. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN, LEFT, AND SCREENSHOT VIA INSTAGRAM / FILE
Councilmember Joann Ariola on Feb. 7 was elected leader of the City Council’s Republican caucus, the first Queens representative to hold the position since 2001. She chose Councilmember Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) as the minority whip. While Councilmember David Car r (R-Staten Island) was elected to the minority leader post on Jan. 28, there was a re-vote after an appeal due to a lack of a quorum. After Mayor Adams in September 2024 was indicted on federal corruption charges, the Justice Department on Feb. 10 ordered federal prosecutors to drop the charges. Adams, who pleaded not guilty, had met with President Trump in Mar-a-Lago in January, but insisted that a pardon was not a topic of discussion during their meeting. Capt. Pratima Maldonado, once the executive officer of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct, announced at Community Board 9’s Feb. 11 meeting that she was replacing Deputy Inspector Jeremy Kivlin as the precinct’s commanding officer. She was excited to get into the role, telling the board, “I grew up here, so I know what this precinct is all about. It’s about community.” A raucous car meet at the intersection of Rockaway Boulevard and 97th Avenue in Ozone Park saw hundreds of people blocking traffic and filling the streets on Feb. 15. Footage from the incident showed smoke and loud, cracking exhaust noises. The NYPD’s 102nd Precinct said special attention would be paid to the area going forward, as the site was a hotspot for street takeovers. Business owners and residents in late February expressed frustration with the lack of spots and disregard for parking regulations in and around the Coleman Square area of Howard Beach, which they attributed to
March Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo on Feb. 1 entered the race for mayor of New York City in a 17-minute video uploaded to social media. Other Democrats he was set to face in June’s primary immediately came out with scathing statements against his candidacy, including then-mayoral hopeful Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria). Flagstar announced in early March that two branches were slated to close later in the year: one at 92-10 Atlantic Ave. in Ozone Park, and another at 93-22 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven, much to the dismay of the residents who frequented the locations. Sam Esposito, president of the Ozone Park Residents Block Association, said the branch in Ozone Park, at Clocktower Plaza, was a vital resource to residents with mobility issues who may find it difficult to access other locations. Davien Reid Sr. of Richmond Hill was indicted March 7 for attempted murder, assault, witness intimidation and other crimes over the alleged brutal beating of his 8-year-old stepson, according to the Queens DA. Katz vowed to get justice for the child. The American Postal Workers Union hosted rallies nationwide on March 20 to speak out against potential privatization of the United States Postal Service. Members of Queens Area Local APWU 1022 protested in front of the Howard Beach Post Office chanting, “U.S. Mail, not for sale.” The annual Phagwah Parade returned to Richmond Hill on March 23, drawing a crowd of tens of thousands of spectators to watch about 40 colorful floats. Streets were filled with the jubilant sounds of Holi, with people of all ages doused in bright colors dancing and marching in spirited celebration. John Garrison of Cambria Heights on March 23 was arraigned on a five-count criminal complaint after allegedly assaulting and threatening to kill a 10-year-old girl in Woodhaven on March 19, and exposing himself on a busy street in Richmond Hill on March 20. A rogue car meet at Rockaway Boulevard and 97th Avenue in Ozone Park on March 30 continued on page 6
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Growth and grit shaped South Queens in 2025 continued from page 4 saw a group of individuals mocking police and vandalizing their vehicles. U.S. Rep. Nydia Velázquez (D-Brooklyn, Queens) as a result penned a letter to Tisch and DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez to express concern, writing that the gatherings pose a threat to public safety and undermine the authority of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct. Several individuals were arrested. Tisch on social media, in response to the incident, said, “We will not tolerate lawlessness or vandalism aimed at the police.”
annual Fowler Day ceremony in South Ozone Park. His family, friends and fellow members of the FDNY were also in attendance for the event, watching as students performed songs and read poetry. Joe Caruana, the longtime president of the Our Neighbors Civic Association of Ozone Park, retired from the group on June 4. Though his time with ONCA came to an end, Caruana said he plans to continue civic work through the Caruana Foundation and the Golden Age Club of Ozone Park. PS 232, the Lindenwood School, on June April 16 unveiled its new reading garden, made Mayor Adams on April 2, a day after his possible by a grant from the city Departcor r upt ion cha rges were d ism issed , ment of Education’s Office of Sustainabiliannounced he would exit the Democratic ty and Civics For All participatory budgetprimary and instead run for reelection as an ing. The garden serves as a flexible outThe American Softball League, a nonprofit for those with developmental disabilities, held its door learning space, while also supporting independent. PHOTO COURTESY RANDY NOVICK / FILE In a statement, Adams said, “There isn’t widely attended Opening Day in April. the environment. a liberal or conservative way to fix New Mamdani on June 23 secured the DemoAs the race for one of three downstate puts safety and connectivity first, all while cratic nomination for mayor, a decisive vicYork, but there is a right way and a wrong casino licenses heated up, bidders started to taking into account the thoughts and con- tory over Cuomo. way.” Anthony Trotta of Lindenwood was fold in late June, with applicants going from cerns of residents.” Following his win, Mamdani, on his X Service to Rockaway on the A train account, said, “In the words of Nelson arrested on April 17 following an alleged 11 to nine. Two Queens hopefuls, Resorts string of porch piracy throughout March World NYC in South Ozone Park and Met- resumed after a 17-week outage as part of Mandela: it always seems impossible until and April. He was charged with four counts ropolitan Park in Citi Field, were consid- an MTA resiliency and rehabilitation proj- it’s done.” ect, the MTA announced on May 19. The of petit larceny and seventh degree criminal ered among the frontrunners. Two people were arrested by U.S. Park work aimed to ensure that structures could Police at Forest Park in Woodhaven on possession of a controlled substance. May withstand future extreme weather events. American Softball League, a nonprofit June 22 following a resident-led effort to Twenty people were indicted in connecAn 11-year-old girl was abducted and catch perpetrators who were recorded sports program for those with autism and other developmental disabilities, kicked off tion with an auto theft ring on May 8. fondled the afternoon of May 20 in Forest stealing a swan from Charles Park in Howits 14th season at Vito Locascio Field in According to the Queens DA, more than Park, but her father scared off the perpetra- ard Beach on June 21. Ozone Park on April 19. Led by Randy $4.6 million worth of vehicles were stolen tor, who was later appreA video of the thef t Novick, the league saw a big crowd for its by the defendants, one of whom was arrest- hended. Teddy Moussignac a m a ssed hu nd red s of opening day, with a slew of elected officials ed by State Police at his Lindenwood home of Ozone Park was charged engagements online and turning out to throw a first pitch and sup- on May 7. Katz said it was one of the most on May 21 for his alleged was reposted by various prolific and organized auto theft rings ever role in the crime. port the team. com mu n it y a nd a n i mal T he a n nu a l Howa rd Ozone Park’s own Cyndi Lauper was uncovered in the city. rights activists. The swan The city Department of Transportation B e a c h M e m o r i a l D ay inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of was never located. Fame on April 27. She lived in Ozone Park on May 12 announced that the Conduit cor- Parade, organized by VeterThe Woodhaven Mural in the 1950s and 1960s, and was quoted in ridor would get a major overhaul stemming ans of Foreign Wars Post Project, a resident-led non2014 as saying, “Everyone in our neighbor- from a community-driven study. The 2565, brought out residents profit that aims to beautify hood was a character and modeled them- 3-mile corridor connects Atlantic Avenue young and old on May 26 to the neighborhood, unveiled and Linden Boulevard in Brooklyn to the march through the streets, selves after movie stars.” f inished murals on two More than 800 attendees headed to the Belt Parkway and JFK Airport in Queens, stopping at area war memowalls beneath the overpass Hyatt Regency at Resorts World New York and has seen more than 40 severe injuries rials for flag-raising cereat Park Lane South and 98th City in South Ozone Park on April 30 for and five traffic deaths over the last half monies along the way. Street on June 20. The creFour students at PS 97, Queens South High Schools’ second annual decade. ation, titled “Kids Make State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhav- the Forest Park School, STEM expo. All 29 high schools in the disNeighborhoods,” involved trict participated, showing a wide array of en) was one of many area elected officials interviewed Chelsea Clinton Animal lovers were infuriated par ticipation f rom area knowledge in science, technology, engi- to laud the announcement, saying that the on May 30 via a video chat when someone was seen shov- families and artists over the community “deserves infrastructure that for a school podcast epi- ing a swan into a vehicle in course of several weeks. neering and mathematics. sode. Clinton explained the Charles Park in Howard Beach Gilbert Augustin on June work she does to help peo- in June. HOWARD BEACH DADS 18 was sentenced to 10 ple around the world, and PHOTO / FACEBOOK / FILE years in prison after he one of the students said, “I fat ally at t acked Jasmer didn’t think I’d ever get to ask someone like Singh, 66, a Sikh man, following a road Chelsea Clinton a question. It made me feel rage incident in 2023. Augustin was like my voice actually matters.” charged with assault in the second degree The annual Autism and Developmental as a hate crime. Disability Walk and Resource Fair returned The family of Win Rozario, the 19-yearto South Richmond Hill on May 31, spon- old fatally shot by police at his Ozone Park sored by Addabbo and Community Board home while experiencing a mental health 9. Nearly 400 marchers, in spite of a rainy crisis, on June 23 sued the city, the inciforecast, made their way around the streets dent’s two responding officers and 10 other near Phil Rizzuto Park. unidentified officers who the family said violated their rights. June “We wish Win was still with us and pray FDNY Capt. Vincent Fowler, who died that what we do helps prevent other famiStudents at PS 109, the Capt. Vincent G. Fowler School, in South Ozone Park in June cele- in the line of duty in 1999, was honored by lies from having to go through this,” the Q PS 108, his namesake school, during its Rozario family said. brated its namesake, who died in the line of duty in 1999. PHOTO BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO / FILE
Page 7 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
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AANHPI education bill signed into law History lessons will be assessed; findings delivered to state officials by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Schools in New York will be assessed on their teaching of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander history, per a bill signed into law by Gov. Hochul, her office announced Dec. 16. The legislation, S7855E/A8463E, also establishes an advisory committee on the future of AANHPI content in schools. Known as the New York AANHPI Education Equity Act, the legislation states that surveys will focus on identifying the extent to which school districts provide instruction on AANHPI history. Findings will include detailed survey results and, if needed, recommendations to implement or strengthen such instruction. A report of the findings will be delivered to the governor, the temporary president of the Senate, the speaker of the Assembly, the minority leader of the Senate and the minority leader of the Assembly, per the bill’s text. The AANHPI history advisory committee will be comprised of four members, one each appointed by the governor, temporary president of the Senate, speaker of the Assembly and state education commissioner. According to Hochul’s office, research and advocacy efforts find that teaching comprehensive cultural history encourages empathy,
reduces bias and strengthens community belonging for all students and promotes cross-cultural understanding, helping students from diverse backgrounds appreciate the rich contributions of all ethnic groups to American history. The bill was sponsored by state Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) and Assemblymember Grace Lee (D-Manhattan). The bill’s cosponsors in the Assembly were Assemblymembers Ron Kim (D-Flushing), Jessica Gonzalez-Rojas (D-East Elmhurst), Ed Braunstein (D-Bayside), Nily Rozic (D-Fresh Meadows), David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows), Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven), Larinda Hooks (D-Corona), Steven Raga (D-Maspeth) and Alicia Hyndman (D-Springfield Gardens) There were no Queens cosponsors listed on the state Senate’s website. “In signing the AANHPI Education Equity Act into law, New York is now one step closer to a statewide AANHPI curriculum that would at long last truly validate the lived experiences of Asian Americans in New York,” Liu, the chair of the Committee on NYC Education, said in a statement. “This survey bill is not the endgame, but an important step in that direction by measuring how AANHPI history is currently taught in classrooms, and how it is not. “Gaining this understanding will help
Gov. Hochul on Dec. 16 announced the signing of the AANHPI Education Equity Act, which requires that schools are surveyed on how they teach Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander history. PHOTO COURTESY NYS SENATE shape our curriculum in the future so we can make sure the education of all students throughout the state accurately reflects the diverse communities that have shaped it.” Hochul said, “AANHPI history is New York history, and our classrooms should reflect that fact. I am proud to sign legisla-
tion affirming our commitment to AANHPI New Yorkers that their story is not just part of, but essential to New York students’ education. This law ensures that students across the state will have the tools to understand and appreciate the impact of these communiQ ties on our nation.”
Majority Whip bills tackle edu., transit Brooks-Powers legislation closes digital divide, transportation gaps by Naeisha Rose
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Editor
Bills addressing the digital divide and transportation gaps i nt ro d uc e d by Cit y C ou nci l Majority Whip Selvena BrooksPowe r s ( D - L a u r elt o n) we r e approved last week. Intro. 142-A, which she introduced Feb. 28, 2024, requires the city Department of Education to issue a biannual report on student access to home internet and electronic devices. The bill also requires the department to include data on whether equipment is broken or non-functional; feedback from parents and guardians regarding technology challenges; and concrete recommendations to reduce technology barriers to close the digital divide. The bill was sent to both the Council Committees on Education and Civil and Human Rights on June 18 and was approved by the for mer group Dec. 18. It was passed by the Council 47 to 1 later that day. Three councilmembers were absent for the vote last Thursday.
All of the councilmembers representing Queens voted in the affirmative for the bill, which is on the Mayor’s desk for a signature. Councilwoman Darlene Mealy (D-Brooklyn) was the lone member to vote against the bill. Brooks-Powers said that access to reliable internet and functional devices is no longer optional, but a fundamental part of a student’s ability to learn and succeed. “Intro 142 ensures we are not just measuring the digital divide, but actively identifying solutions,” she said in a statement. “By pairing data with recommendations, this law creates a clear roadmap for targeted investments so no student is left behind because of where they live or their family’s resources.” Maria Odom, executive director of Advocates for Children of New York, an organization that provides free resources to parents and guardians of students so they may address and champion various educational matters, shared the majority whip’s sentiments. “Reliable inter net access is essential to students’ education,
City Council Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers had two bills that were approved on Dec. 18. One bill addresses the digital divide while the other focuses on a gap in transportation in transit deserts and lowincome communities. PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL / FILE
connecting them not only to school resources but also to the broader world of information and opportunity beyond the classroom walls,” said Odom in a statement. Brooks-Powers’ transportation bill, Intro. 1346-A, requires the city Department of Transportation to conduct a comprehensive study of the commuter van industry.
The transportation bill was introduced Aug. 14. The Council’s Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, in which the majority whip is the chairwoman, held a hearing on the bill on Sept. 15 and a second hearing was held on Dec. 18. The Council approved the bill by 47 to 1 later that day. Three members were absent for the vote. Similar to her education bill, Brooks-Powers had the full support of councilmembers from Queens and Mealy was the lone no vote. This bill is also on the Mayor’s desk awaiting his signature. Brooks-Powers said for many New Yorkers, commuter vans are not a convenience, but a necessity. “Intro 1346 brings long-overdue attention to a system that fills real gaps in our transit network,” said the majority whip in a statement. “This study will give the city the tools it needs to better coordinate vans with public transit, improve safety and curb management, and ensure transportation planning reflects how people actually move through their communities.” The DOT is also required to
mention the commuter van industry’s service areas and its ridership patterns, along with interactions with buses, pedestrians and curb space in its report. The purpose of the study is to provide critical insight into the industry in transit deserts and working-class communities that utilize the service. Leroy Morrison, president of the New York City Commuter Van Association, said the industry has provided reliable transportation for decades in neighborhoods where the transit system does not adequately serve. “Intro 1346 is an important step toward evaluating the role our industry plays in keeping workingclass New Yorkers connected to jobs, schools and services,” said Mor rison in a statement. “By studying where vans operate, how riders use them, and how the industry interacts with buses and curb space, the city can develop policies that support safety, stability and the long-term viability of an industry that thousands of New Q Yorkers rely on.”
continued from page 2 of Small Business Services that would assist merchants with education and compliance with local laws. “In speaking with vendors about the barriers they face, it’s clear we can do more, and an office dedicated to street vendor assistance will help these entrepreneurs navigate obstacles to licensing, inconsistency in enforcement, and regulations that make it near-impossible to operate in a successful and sustained way,” Williams said in a statement. “I believe it will go a long way to deliver services to the vendors,” Attia said, adding that the city now offers broad, general training that does not meaningfully serve merchants. The bills now go to Mayor Adams’ desk. Referencing the later overriden veto of a bill by Councilman Shekar K r ish nan (D -Jackson Heights) to decriminalize street vending offenses, Attia cited concerns about other potential vetoes. “It won’t be a surprise for us, but we’re really counting on the the Council’s commitment to make this right and to ensure the package of bills passes,” he said. Anna Correa, a spokesperson for the mayor, said the bills are being reviewed, but the Adams administration supports raising the cap on the number of available Q licenses and increasing enforcement.
Short-term rental bill failed to even make it to a vote by Naeisha Rose Editor
Two housing-related bills had different fates at the City Council’s final meeting of the year. The Council approved the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act, legislation that would allow community land trusts to purchase properties before they go for sale on the open market, 31 to 10. Three councilmembers were absent for the Dec. 18 meeting and seven abstained from the vote. Councilwoman Sandy Nurse (D-Brooklyn) is the lead sponsor of COPA, also known as Intro. 0902-B. The bill was introduced May 16, 2024 and heard by the Council Committee on Housing and Building June 3. “Corporate interests and big real estate tried their hardest to block the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act with a misinformation and fear-mongering campaign, and they failed,” said Nurse in a statement. “Today marks the beginning of a new social housing era in New York
City, one where working New Yorkers advance tools to stop the venture capitalists who are driving up rents and pushing families out of their neighborhoods. “COPA levels the playing field and makes it possible to preserve and create thousands of permanently affordable homes across our city.” Councilwomen Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) and Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) and Councilmen Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) and Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) were the members from Queens who voted against the bill. “Yesterday, at the stated meeting, I spoke out against the blatant infringement on individual homeowners’ property rights under the COPA Act,” Ariola said in a Facebook post on Dec. 19. “‘Outrageous’ doesn’t even begin to describe it. Government overreach is an understatement.” Mayor Adams’ office said he was not in support of the bill and other progressive housing legislation that were passed. “The Council passed a suite of
Councilwoman Joann Ariola said the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act is “outrageous.” PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL / FILE
housing bills today that will add red tape, drive up rents and deplete critical city resources at a time when our housing budget faces significant threats from the federal government,” said Fabien Levy, the mayor’s spokesman, in a statement. Ann Korchak, board president of Small Property Owners of New York, shared the same sentiment as Adams’ office. “COPA will make New York
City an affordable housing wasteland and trigger the extinction of small owners,” said Korchak in a statement. “This governmentengineered, socialist scheme sanctions politically-connected, nonprofit housing slumlords and predatory developers to snatch private property ...” A short-term rental bill backed by Airbnb died in Council last Thursday. Intro. 948-A, which would have rolled back restrictions on shortterm rentals as prescribed under Local Law 18, the 2022 law that shut down Airbnb’s operation in the city, failed to make the Council’s voting agenda for the year. Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse (D-Brooklyn), the lead sponsor of the bill, introduced it June 6, 2024. The bill was heard in the Council’s Committee on Housing and Buildings on Nov. 20, but there was no further movement. Airbnb, said, the “city won’t be a more affordable place,” reported Bloomberg, after the Council Q meeting came to a close.
Page 9 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
City Council approves of COPA
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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 10
P Politics, crime, casinos and more topped 2025
EDITORIAL
W
AGE
hat a long, strange year it’s been! For detailed rundowns, see our Year in Review stories, in print or at qchron.com. For a few top issues, read on. The year sure has been filled with political drama. We started off with the second inauguration of President Trump, darling of the right, and end the year anticipating the swearing-in of Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, darling of the left. In between we saw centrist Mayor Adams lose support and credibility — and his bid for reelection — due to corruption and his alliance with Trump, even as he finally started governing better, with a great police commissioner to clean up the NYPD. We saw a strange encore performance from former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, once the fiercest of campaigners, expelled from office years ago, who said everything was on the line in the mayoral race but never really acted like it. And we saw Republican Curtis Sliwa get a whole 7 percent of the vote in the finale, 20 points less than he got last time. It was a year of progress but also contradictions on the crimefighting front, as NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch got down to business and contributed to cutting murder and shootings to record lows, though northern Queens precincts remain an outlier where many violent crimes, including
homicide, are up year to year. Murder is down 21 percent citywide — but it’s up 53 percent in Queens North. Where northern Queens and southern Queens both win is on the gaming front, with full casinos coming to both. It’s amazing how Resorts World in South Ozone Park and Metropolitan Park outside Citi Field each won licenses, but that’s how things played out. They had the best hands. Rivals folded. We’re thrilled at all the jobs that will be necessary to build and operate these facilities. We do hope those tempted to gamble more than they should will find the strength not to do so, and we’re not happy about any increased traffic, but there are risks and downsides to just about everything. So it is with public planning, land use and zoning, is it not? This page did not favor the mayor’s City of Yes wanton rezoning across town, preferring limited changes one community at a time in order to respect neighborhood characteristics. Yet not only did City of Yes go through, the City Council turned it into something called City for All, with $5 billion in planned spending tacked on. Meanwhile, we did get the kind of limited rezonings we might support, very big ones allowing for thousands of more units of housing, in Long Island City and Jamaica. It’s good to be the developer.
LETTERS TO THE Hinton Park probe Published every week by
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Dear Editor: I am writing to share an important update regarding the longstanding issues at Hinton Park in Corona — a matter that has affected local families, schoolchildren and residents for years and has previously been reported on by your publication (“Resident: Lax park regs hurt neighbors,” Aug. 22, 2024, multiple editions). After extensive community documentation and repeated, unresolved complaints, the NYC Department of Investigation, Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Parks and Recreation, has formally acknowledged receipt of a comprehensive complaint concerning conditions at Hinton Park and has begun its review. The DOI has requested and received additional supporting materials, including photographs and video documentation. Hinton Park serves a dense residential area and sits directly beside the Louis Armstrong School, impacting approximately 1,500 elementary schoolchildren. For several years, residents have raised concerns about public safety, sanitation, illegal vending, unpermitted sports operations and the overall deterioration of what was once a family-centered neighborhood park. This development represents a critical step forward after years of meetings, 311 complaints and assurances from Parks Department leadership that failed to produce lasting change. While the investigation is now underway and confidentiality must be respected, it is impor© Copyright 2025 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.
One spot where we do look forward to a massive rebuilding is The Hole, aka the Jewel Streets area, that low-lying spot straddling the borough line where Lindenwood meets East New York. Adams has promised a major transformation there, and we hope the plan persists under Mamdani. On the roads, we congratulate the Adams administration for making a decades-long dream come true and building the new length of 132nd Street between 20th and 23rd avenues in College Point. Once called the Linden Place Extension, it’s a vital link. We’re even glad to see bike lanes there! We of course are not glad to see bike lanes everywhere, and again applaud state Supreme Court Justice Cheree Buggs for recognizing the Department of Transportation’s recklessness and nixing the 31st Street bike lane plan in Astoria. There are already lanes just a few blocks away on Crescent Street; there is no need for the DOT to ruin 31st. Crime, jobs, housing, transportation — these are top issues in Queens. We will see what the approach is under a mayor we believe will be unlike any we’ve had before, operating during a presidential administration also unlike any before. Will their apparent camaraderie last? How will each affect our lives in 2026? What’s next? Stay tuned to find out.
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tant for the public to know that this issue has moved beyond internal agency handling and into independent oversight. The community is not seeking attention or confrontation. We are seeking accountability, transparency and a clear plan to restore Hinton Park as a safe and respectful space for families and children. For those interested in understanding the scope of the documented concerns, community records and timelines are publicly available at hpinvestigation.blogspot.com. Thank you for your continued coverage of neighborhood issues that matter. Wolfgang Busch Corona
Safe, clean transit needed Dear Editor: As a teen living in Sunnyside who commutes to college and who depends on public transit every day, I am constantly worried about the safety and reliability of the MTA, especially the
7 train line. I also worry about my own safety, always having to look over my shoulder. Delays, service changes, and poor communication are always an issue for me. These problems not only affect me personally but also other students, workers at night, and commuters across Queens and Manhattan — and these conditions are not just inconvenient; they create real safety risks for everyone. Most of the time, many train stations feel understaffed, especially during the evening. During this time, platforms are crowded and not well lit; these issues raise the risk of danger and unprovoked attacks toward innocent people. Riders are often left without notices about subway and bus delays or changes, which creates an even bigger problem: People are unaware of what is going on and cannot get to their destination. These issues affect thousands of people daily, yet efforts to make improvements seem slow and uncertain. With fare hikes starting in 2026 and less and less safety, people are discouraged from taking public transit. State and city officials and the
MTA need to focus on what is important. That is improving the safety of subways, platforms, stations and buses, better communication, more workers and more cleanliness. Every person deserves a transportation system that feels safe, accessible and something they can depend on to constantly use. Queens and Manhattan residents continue to count on the 7 line for their daily activities. We need a transit system that listens to and answers the needs of the community, not a system that leaves people feeling desperate for change and unsafe. Sarah Cobo Sunnyside
New bishop in town Dear Editor: Cardinal Timothy Dolan is retiring from the New York Diocese and Pope Leo the XIV has just appointed Bishop Ronald Hicks from Chicago as Pope Leo XIV is also from Chicago. Now, Hicks will lead the New York Diocese, reported to be the second largest in our country. As Bishop Ronald Hicks has said, “As a church we can never rest in our effort to protect the children and to care for the survivors.” Now Bishop Hicks also is a member of the Knights of Columbus, as am I, an organization that helps the downtrodden and the poor. I applaud Pope Leo XIV for his selection of Bishop Ronald Hicks to run the archdiocese of New York. May God bless Bishop Ronald Hicks in his problems ahead. Frederick R. Bedell Jr. Bellerose
Life and dying peacefully
A salute to Schwartz Dear Editor: Re. Michael Gannon’s “Schwartz celebrates his 100 birthday,” Dec. 18, multiple editions. I wish to add my congratulations to the many already bestowed on Briarwood resident Seymour Schwartz upon reaching the century mark. He deserves praise not only for his longevity, but also for his decades of service to his community and dangerous service to his nation in the Navy during World War II. As an 86-year-old man, I’m just a kid compared to Mr. Schwartz, although I have lived in the nearby neighborhood of Kew Gardens Hills for the past 81 years. But I can’t come close to matching his dedication to his community and country. During a time when many young people view seniors as a liability, he proves that age is a positive asset. To quote the great philosopher Indiana Jones: “It’s not the years, it’s the mileage that counts” — my favorite line from my all-time favorite action movie “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills
Thank you all so much for your trust, support and loyalty throughout 2025. We are so grateful to be a part of such a wonderful and caring community. May the holidays bring you and your loved ones happiness & joy. Merry Christmas & Happy Hanukkah! Cheers to you all! Anne Marie Chirichigno, Staff and all of our Real Estate Professionals
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Corrupt, costly tariffs
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Dear Editor: It is disturbing to witness the depth of incompetence and corruption of the Trump administration, as it pursues overt monetization of the office. U.S.-produced soybeans have been a very profitable American product, but President Trump killed the market with tariffs on China, the biggest buyer of American crops. China retaliated against Trump’s tariffs by halting purchases of U.S. farm products, turning to Argentina and Brazil instead. Now Trump is bailing out our farmers with $12 billion tax money taken from the pockets of every American taxpayer, to fix a problem he created in the first place. Trump also placed a 46 percent tariff on Vietnamese goods. Then Vietnam gave Eric Trump a $1.5 billion golf course deal, whereupon Trump reduced the tariff on Vietnam to 20 percent. Meanwhile, Trump bailed out Argentina’s economy with another $40 billion of our American tax money, while we American consumers are paying higher prices for goods due to the Trump tariffs. Robert Keilbach Queens Village
MAGA vs. TDS Dear Editor: To the few people who constantly write negatively about President Trump week after week, year after year, you’re suffering from Trump Derangement Syndrome. Get yourselves some professional help (yes, TDS is real). President Trump was born and raised in Queens and should be celebrated being a native son who became president of the United States (not once, twice!). He is working hard to Make America Great Again after the failed presidency of sleepy Joe Biden. Ron Priori Woodhaven
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Dear Editor: It all comes down to matters of life and death. The Queens Chronicle’s coverage of “Medical Aid in Dying to Become Legal in 2026, (Dec. 18, multiple editions)” truly is a Public Service Announcement. Thank you for including it. Anyone who has watched and waited as a loved one inched toward death can appreciate, even if you can’t agree, Kathy Hochul’s final understanding of this moment of truth: “This bill allows New Yorkers to suffer less — to shorten not their lives, but their deaths.” This news easily can slip under our radar unless a life and death struggle is unfortunately part of our current daily reality. However, it’s important news for everyone. Countless poems, studies and meditations explore the concept of a good death. The National Library of Medicine shares an article called Defining a Good Death (http://tiny.cc/ rnsw001). The introduction offers several ideas, including reference to a commencement speech delivered by Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple, after his diagnosis of cancer. He called death “very likely the single best invention of life” and described focusing on what was most important and meaningful to him as he confronted it. This legislation allows someone to appreciate life in that way before pain makes that impossible. For some, it’s the personal epiphany that they need. We now have a choice. Debra Michlewitz Bayside
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Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
LETTERS TO THE
QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 12
Major drug dealing outfit busted: DA Open-air sales two blocks from R’velt Ave. alleged; 16 defendants indicted by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief
Law enforcement has dismantled a major drug dealing operation in Jackson Heights and indicted 16 people following a longterm investigation, Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz reported Dec. 17 in a joint announcement with NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch and Homeland Security Investigations’ Special Agent in Charge for New York Ricky Patel. Cocaine, fentanyl, crystal meth, Percocet and other drugs were sold openly on 93rd Street near 35th Avenue, Katz said. The investigation included undercover buys and electronic surveillance. Thirteen defendants were arraigned Dec. 16, the DA said; one will be arraigned at a future date and two were at large. Three of them were charged as major traffickers. Katz characterized the action as taking place along the Roosevelt Avenue corridor, which has been the intense focus of city, state and federal law enforcement activity — because it has been an epicenter of criminal activity, especially in the past several years. “My office has prioritized addressing the pressing issues on and near Roosevelt Avenue to make sure that nearby families and residents are protected,” the DA said in a prepared statement. “As alleged, these defendants peddled deadly drugs on a residential street in Jackson Heights at all hours of the day. Three of the defendants are charged as major traffickers and, if convicted, face a maximum of life in prison. We are committed to dismantling drug rings in Queens County, block by block and street by street.” She went on to thank her office’s partners in law enforcement, citing in particular the undercover officers “who risked their safety to gather critical evidence.”
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Cops ID body found off Jackie Police identified the woman whose skeletal remains were found off the Jackie Robinson Parkway over the s u m m e r, t h e N Y PD s a i d l a s t Thursday. The bones of Christina G. Purdie, 27, of Kenilworth Place in Brooklyn, were discovered off the roadway near Vermont Place in Glendale Aug. 6. Workers from the city Department of Transportation had discovered possible skeletal remains in a grassy area near the westbound Exit 1 near Highland Boulevard at around 10:30 that morning, police had reported. T he Ch ief Med ical Exa m i ner deemed the incident a homicide last month, according to police. The NYPD also had released images of the jewelry and tattoo belonging to the person found. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). One may also submit tips by going to crimestoppers. nypdonline.org; or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and entering TIP577; or by going to @nypdtips on X. All tips are Q strictly confidential. — Stephanie G. Meditz
Cocaine was one drug available on 93rd Street, according to the authorities. PHOTO BY MUKHINA VIKTORIIA VIA AIP.ORG Undercover officers made 26 buys of controlled substances costing approximately $10,400, Katz said. Those purchases included approximately 200 grams of cocaine. Tisch noted that the defendants “conducted their business in plain sight” on a neighborhood street; while Patel said the operation “dealt a major blow against those who profit from addiction and chaos.” He added, “These arrests mark a turning point in reclaiming Jackson Heights for its law-abiding residents and families.” The defendants are: Jonathan Mendoza, 31, of Corona, the alleged ringleader, who the DA said still ran the show even after being locked up on Rikers Island over another matter; Diana Idrovo, 24, of Corona, Mendoza’s girlfriend, through whom he allegedly conducted operations over the phone from jail; Brian Zamudio, 30, of Maspeth; Moises Andon, 23, of Elmhurst; Jessi Garcia, 33, of Rego Park; Jason Aspiroz, 22, of Corona; Jose Prado, 21, of Forest
Hills; Joan Salto, 29, of Jackson Heights; Wilson Matute, 29, of Corona; Xavier Cabrera, 21 of College Point; Ramon Salcedo, 32, of Jackson Heights; Salomon Andon, 21, of Corona; Roberto Maldonado, 33, of Jackson Heights; Joshua Pressley, 34, of Flushing; Alexis Sierra, 30, of Bay Terrace; Antonio Valerio, 63, of Elmhurst; and Mario Castillo, 25, of Corona. The defendants were arraigned on a 47-count indictment charging them all with conspiracy in the fourth degree and variously charging them with criminal sale of a controlled substance in the second and third degrees and other crimes. Mendoza, Zamudio and Andon are the ones charged as major traffickers. Garcia and Salcedo are the ones who were not apprehended immediately. Maldonado lives on 93rd Street, and sales allegedly were made on a regular basis from lawn chairs set up in front of his house. “The defendants allegedly conducted street sales around-theclock and openly handed drugs to buyers,” the DA’s Office said. Katz said court-authorized search warrants resulted in the seizure of: • over 300 grams of fentanyl; • over 2 kilos of cocaine; • one 9 mm handgun and two high-capacity magazines loaded with ammo; • over 16 grams of oxycodone; • 30 grams of crystal meth; • 160 grams of ecstasy; • scales and money counters; and • over $30,000 in cash. Most of the defendants are due back in court Jan. 21, though Q some have other dates listed in the DA’s announcement.
Bills aim to improve FDNY, EMS safety by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Four bills designed to improve safety for FDNY and EMS employees and the people they serve passed in the City Council Dec. 18, the legislative body’s final meeting of 2025. They all were primarily sponsored by Councilmember Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), chair of the Com mittee on Fire and Emergency Management. Two of them, Intro. 1452-A and Intro. 1453-A, are focused on improving the safety of FDNY equipment. Intro 1452-A would require the FDNY to provide notice to employees of any firefighting personal protective equipment known to contain perf luoroalkyl and polyfluoralkyl substances, colloquially known as PFAS. The bill would also require the FDNY to provide employees with equipment that does not contain PFAS at or above established hazardous levels by 2028. Intro. 1453-A would require the FDNY to establish a program to exchange and dispose of equipment that contain PFAS. “FDNY firefighters already face an
unacceptably high risk of cancer simply because of the job they do,” Ariola said in a statement. “We should never accept that the gear meant to protect them could make that risk even worse. This legislation is about taking responsibility for their long-term health, reducing preventable cancer exposure and making sure our firefighters can enjoy long, healthy retirements after a lifetime of service.” The other two bills, Intro. 1140-A and Intro. 1229-A, aim to expand reporting on FDNY and EMS assets. Intro. 1140-A would require the Fire Department to report annually on the condition, age and maintenance of all department vehicles, and operational equipment, and Intro. 1229-A would require monthly reports from the FDNY on the average number of EMS units available each day to respond to medical emergencies. “Together, this package of legislation makes sure that our first responders will have the proper gear they need to keep protecting the people of this city while staying safe themselves,” Ariola said. Q “We need to protect our protectors.”
Coat collection through Jan. 5 S t a t e S e n . Jo e Ad d a b b o Jr. (D-Woodhaven) has once again partnered with New York Cares for their annual coat drive, aimed at providing warm clothing to individuals and families in need during the season. “Every winter, it saddens me to see so many New Yorkers shivering in the cold because they lack proper clothing,” Addabbo said in a statement. “Partnering with New York Cares lets us take a heartfelt, proactive stand to ensure no one in our community suffers through the season without a warm coat.” He continued, “I ask everyone to go through their closets and donate what they can.” Gently worn coats can be dropped off Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Addabbo’s district off ice, at 84-16 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven, and at his Middle Village office, at 66-85 73 Place. The drive will run through Jan. 5, 2026. All donations will be distributed to area shelters and families in need. For more information about the coat drive and how to participate, contact Addabbo’s office at (718) 738Q 1111.
Conversion of rooms to 318 units in S. Jamaica helps low-income New Yorkers by Naeisha Rose Editor
A ribbon cutting was held for the first hotel-to-affordable housing conversion in South Jamaica on Dec. 18. Several elected officials, along with leaders from city and state agencies, civics and community boards joined Slate Property Group, a multifamily housing developer, and RiseBoro Community Partnership, a community development nonprofit, for the celebration, located at 143-06 145 Ave. “Baisley Pond Park Residences shows what’s possible when we put people first,” said state Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) via email. “By transforming a vacant hotel into deeply affordable housing with supportive services, this project delivers real stability for families and individuals who need it most.” The former JFK Hilton Hotel was transformed into a 318-unit development, said spokespeople from Slate and Riseboro. “Southeast Queens deserves investments that preserve dignity, expand opportunity and strengthen our neighborhoods and this hotel-to-housing conversion does exactly that,” said Comrie. “I’m proud to support projects that turn underused space into safe, permanent homes and move New York closer to meeting the scale of our housing
Elected officials, civic and community board leaders and members from Riseboro Community Partnership and Slate Property Group were at the ribbon cutting for a hotel-to-housing conversion in Jamaica last Thursday. PHOTO COURTESY NYS SENATE crisis.” Aracelia Cook, president of the 149th Street South Ozone Park Civic Association, told the Chronicle that the housing at Baisley Pond Park Residences was definitely needed. “This is a step for those who were in temporary housing to transition into their own
housing,” said Cook. “They could use this as a stepping stone to eventually rise above poverty and have as a goal to be a homeowner at some point and time.” While the Baisley Pond housing doesn’t have an option for homeownership, Cook believes some of the tenants in the affordable units will be able to save towards hav-
ing their own home in the future. “That will be a great long-term goal for families,” said Cook. Two years ago, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica), said she supported the conversion of the $167 million project. The city received $48 million from the state’s Housing Our Neighbors with Dignity Act program, said the speaker’s office in 2023. Another $50 million was provided via a senior loan from the city Housing Development Corp., which is being serviced by Chase, and the project is funded with an allocation of 501(c)(3) bonds from HDC. MSquared, a women-owned real estate development and impact-investing platform, provided a key $4.4 million predevelopment loan. Development partners Riseboro and Slate acquired the property for $64 million. “With the historic conversion ... of permanently affordable housing for low-income and formerly homeless New Yorkers, our city is taking a critical step forward to ensure even more of our neighbors have access to the stability and support they need,” Adams said in a 2023 statement. “The Baisley Pond Park Residences represents what can be achieved when our city and state governments work together with a shared goal of housing New Yorkers.” Q
Page 13 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
JFK Hilton Hotel is now housing:Comrie
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Holden calls for task force addressing alleged illegal venues amid complaints by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor
City Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) is not leaving office quietly, as noise continues to keep his constituents awake. Citing complaints about loud parties, overcrowding, unpermitted commercial activity and more at several sites in his district, Holden is calling for an interagency task force to address alleged illegal or unlicensed event venues. “These alleged illegal venues are not just a nuisance, they are a real public safety concern,” he said in a press release. The Chronicle reported in August that some neighbors of Ridgewood’s Lottus Event Center at 63-01 Fresh Pond Road lamented loud music coming from the venue at all hours of the night, with one Reddit user calling the noise level “unbelievable.” “Bass so loud and low that we can feel it, so earplugs and noise machines are no use,” the user @Exhausted_bynoise wrote in a Ridgewood group last month. Holden’s office joined city agencies for a coordinated enforcement operation over Thanksgiving weekend, when he said the situation “escalated.” An event set for Nov. 29 with more than 300 expected attendees was “abruptly canceled” just before agencies arrived, according to the release. Holden’s office said the venue continued operating the very next day.
City Councilman Bob Holden urged the city to address alleged unlawful activity at area event venues. He cited frequent complaints of noise and overcrowding at Ridgewood’s Lottus Event Center, above. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ / FILE A manager at Lottus Event Center, who identified himself as Sammy, said the footage circulating online of people lined up on Fresh Pond Road outside the venue was from Halloween — 1010 WINS last week posted such a video. Lottus usually is not that packed, he said, and the crowd that accumulated was “not all from us.” “It was only one time,” Sammy said. “So from Halloween until now, there’s only one
video. There’s no more videos around, like no more issues around. “Even they’re complaining ... Monday, Tuesday, when the venue is closed, and we have nothing to do with that.” The city Department of Buildings said it had inspectors visit Lottus Event Center on Nov. 29, after receiving complaints about large events taking place there without city approvals. A party was underway, and they saw more than 75
PHOTO COURTESY SHERRY ALGREDO
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R’wood event space still vexes neighbors
Spreading holiday cheer to children at JHMC Community Board 9 on Dec. 18 donated more than 500 toys to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in Richmond Hill, to be gifted to children in its pediatric unit or emergency department. The group worked with community partners to collect toys, including Richmond Hill High School; PS 56, the Harry Eichler School, in Richmond Hill; Caribbean Cabana in Rich-
mond Hill; Independent Pest Elimination in South Ozone Park; and board members, including Kevin O’Leary. Board Chair Sherry Algredo, above at corner left, praised Second Vice Chair Cristal Rivera, next to her, and Rivera’s husband, both of whom helped shop and pick up the toys. She also extended thanks to board member Carmela Isabella and District Manager James
McClelland, second and third from left in the top row, respectively, and the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct and JHMC for their assistance. “You are all responsible for putting a smile on the face of some kids this holiday season,” Algredo said. She said that JMHC was grateful for the generosity and thanked participants for their kindness. — Kristen Guglielmo
people inside — the building has a max allowable occupancy of 74 people. Tables also were arranged with seating for more than 150 people, creating a potential overcrowding condition, the DOB said. Lottus Event Center’s Instagram bio says the space can accommodate up to 500 guests. The DOB said it issued two violations to the property owner, who may dispute them at a hearing scheduled for Feb. 2. If the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings judge upholds the violatons as issued, the owner will face monetary penalties. The standard potential penalty for each violation is $2,500, and fines could go up to $25,000. The FDNY also issued a slew of violations to the Ridgewood venue that night, including for a temporary structure blocking the main entrance’s emergency exit sign and a defective entry light at the main entrance and by the bathrooms. Summonses also were given for electrical hazards, a lack of fire extinguishers and more. A spokesperson for the city Department of Environmental Protection said the agency is aware of the issue and has responded multiple times to the location to investigate noise complaints. An inspector was sent there Nov. 22, but it was closed. Another inspection is set for next month. Asked about the Nov. 29 violations, Sammy said “minor” ones were issued, and the problems have been fixed. Holden’s office also said Lottus “disregarded prior enforcement actions” with an all-day music event Dec. 7. Sammy confirmed that an event was held, but said “nothing happened that day” — Lottus hosted about 50 people and the event wrapped up at around 9 p.m., he said. The release references incidents at several other venues, including a Dec. 14 shooting involving young people at a purportedly illicit venue in Brooklyn, and a shooting last year at Volume Seventeen in Richmond Hill that killed a man and injured three others. Holden is calling on the NYPD, FDNY, DOB, DEP, city Office of Nightlife, city Sheriff’s Office and State Liquor Authority to ensure consistent inspections, coordinated enforcement and accountability for repeat offenders. “Time and again, we see what can happen when purportedly unregulated event spaces operate without proper oversight,” Holden said. “Noise complaints escalate, overcrowding creates chaos, and in some cases the consequences are tragic. “Residents in my district are fed up and rightfully concerned. I will not tolerate this, and I know my successor Phil Wong will not tolerate it either.” “These venues are disturbing our neighborhoods, endangering the public, and showing complete disregard for the law,” Wong said in Q the release. “This will not continue.”
Correction The Dec. 18 story “Paladino slammed for Muslim tweet” misstated the party affiliation of Councilwoman Vickie Paladino. She is a Q Republican. We regret the error.
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
PHOTO BY MARK WEIDLER
The holiday season is in full swing, and thanks to the generosity of readers and neighbors, plenty of children and families living in shelters will have something extra to smile about this winter. T h r ou g h t h e Q u e e n s Chronicle’s 29th annual Holiday Toy Drive, hundreds of toys and essential items have been collected to help brighten the season for those who need it most. The donations will be delivered to Dove House, Kings Inn Shelter in East Elmhurst, the Boulevard Family Shelter in Elmhurst and PS 284 in Brownsville, ensuring that the spirit of the season reaches families across the city. The toy drive would not have been possible without the support of dedicated community partners, including State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven), Assemblymember Ed Braunstein (D-Bayside), Councilmember Bob Holden (D-Maspeth), Goldfish Swim School in Glendale, PS
290, the Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach and 60 Sutton Place. Their involvement reflects a commitment to giving back during the most meaningful time of year. The Chronicle also extends heartfelt thanks to the donors who stepped up to help make the season brighter, including Marie Horvat of Forest Hills; Vicki of Richmond Hill; Doreen Fleming of Glendale; Maureen Chan of Forest Hills; Marie and David Singh of South Ozone Park; Betsy Tam Greene of Flushing; John Lynch of Middle Village; and the Bouzagas family of Forest Hills. Members of the Chronicle’s staff — Peter C. Mastrosimone, Stephanie Meditz and Joe Berni — also contributed to the drive. And, of course, special recognition goes to the Chronicle’s office manager, Stela Barbu, whose tireless efforts organizing collections and coordinating donations helped turn generosity into action. The Chronicle is grateful to everyone who helped spread warmth, kindness and a little extra joy throughout the borough. Q
Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
Chronicle’s 2025 toy drive wraps up
Santa, Inc. — Bayside office Assemblyman Ed Braunstein, joined by staff members Irene Cheung and Jess Mueller, prepares for the delivery of the hundreds of toys donated for the needy. Aside from helping the Chronicle’s annual toy drive, Braunstein’s office assisted the
United States Army; Quality Services for the Autism Community, or QSAC, in Whitestone and Douglaston; Ronald McDonald House; the Transitions Domestic Violence Center; St. Mary’s Hospital for Children; 4 Kids in Need, and the YWCA.
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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 16
YEAR IN REVIEW
2025
CENTRAL/MID QUEENS: PART I
Big ideas, ample surprises to start off
New projects, heated elections, more concerts, top appointments by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor
Competitive primary contests had some surprising winners. Local precincts named new top cops. Community boards tapped new (and continuing) leaders. The city discussed upcoming projects — construction on some won’t start for several years, and draft plans for others were scrapped entirely. Forest Hills Stadium’s concert season started without a hitch, after some thought it might not. It’s been quite a year in Mid and Central Queens. Here’s the highlight reel of what readers saw from January to June in those editions of the Queens Chronicle and at qchron.com. See Part II next week.
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January Congestion pricing took effect Jan. 5, just over 48 hours after a federal judge in New Jersey rejected the Garden State’s call for a temporary injunction. The first wave of cars started paying $9 tolls to enter Manhattan at or below 60th Street. Alicia Vaichunas, then-deputy chief of staff to term-limited City Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth), announced Jan. 6 that she would be running to replace her boss. Vaichunas, a Republican, worked on Holden’s team for about eight years. Community Board 5 had its first meeting of the year Jan. 8. Transportation Chair Eric Butkiewicz relayed discussions with the city Department of Transportation about planned changes to Grand Avenue, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s addenda to the final Queens Bus Network Redesign plan and more. At CB 6’s meeting that same day, Councilmember Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) discussed the newly passed City of Yes for Housing Opportunity plan, saying the city’s basic zoning law needed to be changed, but the City of Yes was done too quickly. The Forest Hills Gardens Corp.’s legal battles with the West Side Tennis Club continued — the group on Jan. 9 announced that it had
Some residents pushed to close Austin Street to cars from 71st Avenue to 71st Road for a one-day event. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ / FILE
A proposed lithium-ion battery storage site in Middle Village sparked concerns, including from Kid’s Play World owner Marta Pasquale, left, and Councilman Bob Holden. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ / FILE appealed a judge’s dismissal of all but two of its claims against the entity housing Forest Hills Stadium. Just before midnight Jan. 10, high carbon monoxide readings at 54-17 Andrews Ave. in Maspeth sent eight civilians and one firefighter to the hospital. The incident was declared under control by 12:38 a.m. Jan. 11. That same morning, a fire at 72-45 Myrtle Ave. in Glendale injured a civilian and a firefighter. Cops on Jan. 12 arrested a perpetrator who robbed several business across Patrol Borough Queens North, Capt. Timothy Brovakos, executive officer of the 112th Precinct, said at the precinct’s community council meeting Jan. 15. That single arrest closed six out of the 10 robberies recorded in the precinct over the last 28-day period. Architects and city officials held the first of a series of public design workshops for Queens’ next jail Jan. 23. Some attendees had constructive feedback on the design, and staunch opponents voiced long-held concerns about the project in Kew Gardens. Vincent Suraci retired from his 20-year post as principal of Stephen A. Halsey JHS 157, with Jan. 31 as his last day. His assistant principal, Angela Ancona-Lisa, took the reins. Con Edison on Jan. 31 announced its proposed hikes to electric and gas bills of 11.4 percent and 13.3 percent on average, respectively. Gov. Hochul urged the Public Service Commission to reject the plan. February Area leaders’ push for a traffic light on Metropolitan Avenue at 72nd Road continued in February, a year after they wrote to the DOT requesting one. The agency said the intersection did not meet federal requirements for a traffic signal, but some elected officials cited persistent complaints.
Beloved Forest Hills resident John Francis Bernardone died suddenly at 67 Feb. 15. He was a lector at Our Lady of Mercy, and an active leader in Alcoholics Anonymous. The Chronicle reported Feb. 20 that the long-vacant former Parkway Hospital in Forest Hills was on track to become an eight-story residential building once contamination there is addressed. The city at the time was reviewing its draft plan for remediation. The Middle Village Residents Association’s energetic Feb. 20 meeting turned into an impromptu candidate forum, with Vaichunas, fellow Holden staffer Phil Wong, United Federation of Teachers strategist Dermot Smyth and civic leader Paul Pogozelski all touting their achievements. That same day, Hochul said she would not remove Adams from office, as calls for his resignation mounted. The Department of City Planning on Feb. 25 detailed the potential impacts of the City of Yes plan on Forest Hills and Rego Park before a CB 6 panel. The rezoning allows for another story of housing over businesses on Metropolitan Avenue, officials said. Drivers for SkyHop Global, a transportation company for airport crews across the country, discussed their strike, which began last November. Workers joined the Teamsters Local 210 union to demand better labor standards and job security, and the union cited retaliatory efforts by the company. Bocce players at Juniper Valley Park on Feb. 28 lamented the buildup of leaves atop the courts. The Parks Department cleared them days later.
CB 9 on Feb. 11 welcomed Capt. Pratima Maldonado back to the 102nd Precinct as commanding officer. She had previously served as executive officer. Despite pushback from some members, CB 5 on Feb. 12 approved the annual Fresh Pond Road Street Festival for four days in September. The feast has long been a point of contention for the board. Capt. Daniel Fennessey, the 112th Precinct’s new commanding officer, visited CB 6 that same day to introduce himself to March members and field public safety Former Gov. Andrew Cuomo questions. announced his candidacy for Mayor Adams said Feb. 13 mayor March 1, in a longthat he would seek to let U.S. expected move. I m m ig r at ion a nd C u stom s Amid reports of avian flu outEnforcement back onto Rikers Capt. Daniel Fennessey breaks in Queens and beyond, Island and issue an executive of the 112th Precinct. animal rights activists on March NYPD PHOTO / X / FILE 11 were ejected from a Ridgeorder reestablishing the feds’ power to operate there. Days wood live poultry market for trylater, four of his deputy mayors resigned, ing to document the conditions inside. amid claims that the charges against him CB 9 reelected Sherry Algredo as chair were dropped in exchange for his cooperation during a packed meeting March 11. with President Trump on illegal immigration Priscilla’s Law, Holden’s bill to require the enforcement. licensing and registration of e-bikes, scooters The Chronicle reported Feb. 13 that work and other motorized vehicles, was hotly to fix a hole in the parking lot of the CVS at debated at CB 5’s March 12 meeting. The 61-15 Metropolitan Ave. in Ridgewood was board voted to write a letter in support of it. in its final stages, but its completion awaited That same night, CB 6 honored 25-year warmer weather. Residents said the hole member Heidi Chain for her service. emerged and was fixed several years ago, but Holden requested a cease-and-desist zone then reopened. in his district, citing complaints from resiMonsignor Joseph Calise of Transfigura- dents about aggressive real estate solicitation Roman Catholic Church said in a letter tions following the City of Yes plan’s pasto parishioners Feb. 15 that the historic sage, the Chronicle reported March 20. church may shutter. He said closing could be He and City Councilmember Jennifer the only option left, as the church needs Gutiérrez (D-Brooklyn, Queens) announced repairs that demand for the space cannot March 24 that the city Department of Buildcontinued on page 18 justify.
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Mid, Central Queens’ tragedies and triumphs continued from page 16 ings had entered 614 Woodward Ave. into its Unsafe Buildings Program. They said the property had become a dumping ground and a threat to safety, with its longstanding sidewalk shed. Kew Gardens civic leaders had even more probing questions for the Queens jail’s design team at another public workshop March 27. Forest Hills Stadium’s 2025 season was uncertain at the end of March — the NYPD’s Legal Bureau on March 19 said it could not grant the necessary sound amplification permits for events there after the Forest Hills Gardens Corp. said the city could not access its surrounding private streets for concert-related use.
April The corruption charges against Adams were dismissed April 2, and a day later, he announced that he would run for reelection as an independent. DOB records showed a job application on file for a lithium-ion battery storage system at 64-30 69 Place in Middle Village. Holden, a vehement opponent, cited its proximity to PS 128, and stood firmly against the proposal on the front of the Chronicle’s April 3 Mid Queens edition. Ridgewood residents at CB 5’s April 9 meeting spoke in favor of turning part of DeKalb Avenue into a one-way street. The Chronicle reported April 10 that the long-controversial migrant shelters at Ridgewood Presbyterian Church and the Rabbinical Seminary in Maspeth were set to close in June. The NYPD’s Legal Bureau on April 14 conditionally granted the sound permits necessary for the first concert of Forest Hills Stadium’s 2025 season. Tiebreaker Productions, which runs shows at the venue, presented an alternate plan to have its own security personnel patrol the surrounding private streets. The city Parks Department on April 14 said it would revisit its design plan for a
multipurpose play area at Juniper Valley Park’s asphalt field, after a schematic surfaced on social media and sparked concerns among residents. The City Council on April 15 filed a lawsuit against Adams’ executive order to let ICE operate on Rikers Island for criminal enforcement. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz on April 21 announced the closure of an unlicensed cannabis dispensary in Rego Park that was selling out of a van on Woodhaven Boulevard underneath the Long Island Expressway. Among the products recovered were edibles packaged to look like candy. Queens was in mourning toward the end of April. Pope Francis died of pneumonia at 88 on April 21. Just days prior, an FDNY fire truck fatally struck a cyclist near Juniper Valley Park. Jordan Rosen of Long Island was indicted for the second-degree murder of William McField of Astoria in an alleged road rage incident in Rego Park, Katz announced April 25. McField, beloved in his motorcycle community, was killed hours before his birthday, according to a GoFundMe page set up to support his family. City agents on April 28 presented potential plans to reconstruct the more than 120-year-old Grand Street Bridge at a public meeting, although construction is not expected to start until 2029. Civic activists and elected officials on April 28 wrote a letter urging the state Office of Cannabis Management to reject a dispensary application at 71-10 Grand Ave. in Maspeth. They said the site is less than the required 500 feet away from PS 58. May Ridgewood Rides on May 3 launched a campaign called Complete the Connections to promote better bike infrastructure in and around the area, as cyclists reported feeling unsafe on the road. Parks on May 5 moved to end its license agreement with Ridgewood’s Sunset Com-
The NYPD in March said it could not grant sound permits for Forest Hills Stadium’s concerts. It did so conditionally a month later, and the season started May 31. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN / FILE
Parks in May moved to end its license agreement with Ridgewood’s Sunset Community Garden, saying its “community values” broke the rules for such spaces. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN / FILE munity Garden, which required members to uphold “community values” including rejections of Zionism, racism, homophobia and more. An agency spokesperson said the group behind it was out of compliance with its rules due to requiring prospective members to affirm political and ideological views, regardless of the content. Dozens of dogs were rescued from a filthy, overcrowded Forest Hills apartment May 8, after which police launched an investigation. Animal Care Centers of NYC said the dozens of Belgian Malinois did not have access to fresh air or sunlight. A federal judge on May 13 ruled that an independent official would be appointed to oversee Rikers Island, effectively removing it from the city’s jurisdiction. Construction on a 90-foot baseball field at Juniper Valley Park’s Field 3 started May 13. Work had previously begun on a 60-foot diamond at Field 1 after a larger one was promised, so the Amazin’ Mets Foundation said it would renovate another. Marshalls on May 15 relocated from Rego Center’s Phase I building on Queens Boulevard to its Phase II section at 61-35 Junction Blvd. The Chronicle reported May 22 that some neighbors of Forest Hills Stadium were wary of the venue’s security plan for its 2025 season, which was set to begin in just over a week. Some Forest Hills Gardens Corp. members said they had not been notified about the city’s intent to monitor noise levels during the first show, although they had been in the past. The city said it issued no noise code violations when Bloc Party kicked off the concert season May 31, though some neighbors still lamented the noise. Toward the end of the month, Holden called on the city Department of Transportation to remove a bus lane enforcement camera on Woodhaven Boulevard at Wetherole Street. He said constituents had com-
plained that cars driving northbound toward Queens Boulevard are unfairly issued bus lane violations, as drivers must either break the rules or risk their safety. June Isaac Yadgarov was charged with animal cruelty for cramming dozens of Belgian Malinois into his one-bedroom Forest Hills apartment, Katz announced June 2. Longtime CB 5 Chair Vinny Arcuri Jr. was voted out of his role June 11. Members elected Walter Sanchez as their new leader in a narrow 20-19 vote. The Chronicle reported June 12 that a Grover Cleveland High School student had been detained by ICE while attending a hearing to seek asylum, as per Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos. The Department of Homeland Security denied the detention, saying a teenage “illegal alien” was arrested for trying to grab an officer’s weapon. Also on June 12, the Chronicle reported that some residents were pushing for a oneday event closing Austin Street to cars from 71st Avenue to 71st Road in Forest Hills. The group Neighbors for a Safer Austin Street discussed applying for a permit, amid doubts from some business figures. More than 1,000 protesters marched down Queens Boulevard June 14 to decry the Trump administration’s policies, such as budget cuts and efforts to crack down on illegal immigration. State Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) decisively won the June 24 Democratic primary for mayor, with 43.5 percent of the vote before ranked-choice counting in an 11-candidate race. The competitive District 30 Democratic primary race between Smyth, Pogozelski and Wong was too close to call immediately after Election Day. But Wong ultimately emerged victorious, which set him up to Q face Vaichunas in November.
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
PHOTO COURTESY NYS SENATE
Lots of people have done their holiday shopping at The Shops at Skyview in Flushing. But the mall itself, located at 40-22 College Point Blvd, reportedly is the subject of haggling for a sale to new owners. Bloomberg and Crain’s New York Business earlier this month reported that Blackstone has agreed to sell the property for about $425 million to TPG and Acadia Realty Trust. The The Shops at Skyview mall in Flushing soon could published reports state that the sale be changing ownership. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE was not yet complete. Property tax records on the website of told the Chronicle in a interview last week the city’s Department of Finance state that he hopes the new owners continue the “owner unavailable.” The principals to allow access to the waterfront along declined to comment on requests for infor- Flushing Creek. The property sits on the mation from the Chronicle. east bank. Businesses on site include Burlington, “I immediately thought of the requireBath & Body Works, Carters, Marshalls, ments that Skyview has to open up access,” Old Navy, OshKosh B’gosh, outlets for Choe said. “They have done that in part by shoes, athletic wear, a Chase bank and building a walkway. But I am hoping more. There also are more than a dozen before the sale takes place or once the sale options for eating and grocery shopping. takes place that the new owners will comJohn Choe, executive director of the mit to ensuring full public access to the Q Greater Flushing Chamber of Commerce waterfront.”
Santa visits Tudor Village Santa Claus was in Tudor Village Dec. 20, bringing holiday merriment to children and families in their very own homes in an effort organized by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. and the Ozone Tudor Civic Association. For St. Nick, who last Saturday bore a striking resemblance to Addabbo, visiting houses in Tudor Village during the holidays is a tradition — one that area families look forward to every year. In a statement posted to social media,
Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
Different kind of sale at Shops at Skyview
Addabbo wrote, “I had a fantastic time this weekend continuing an almost 100-yearold tradition of Santa Claus visiting the homes in Tudor Village, Ozone Park. My thanks to the Ozone Tudor Civic Association, its president Frank Dardani and my elves for making the night such a success!” The civic said on Facebook, “These things don’t happen without volunteers. We are so thankful for those who participate.” — Kristen Guglielmo
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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 20
BEAT
Forest Hills Gardens Sportscasting Hall of Fame Corp. taps new board
SPORTS
by Lloyd Carroll
Chronicle Contributor
The movers and shakers of the sports television business gathered last Tuesday at the New York Hilton to honor the luminaries of their industry at the 2025 Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The evening started by honoring Lee Corso, the colorful recently retired panelist on ESPN’s popular Saturday noon “College GameDay” football studio show. Corso, who is 90, could not travel to New York, so ESPN’s lead college sports voice, Chris Fowler, acceptanced on his behalf. In what had to be the most overdue honor of the evening, 93-year-old Bill Rasmussen, the founder of ESPN, was inducted. Chris Berman, who has been with ESPN since its inception in 1979, stood in for Rasmussen. Berman said Rasmussen’s original goal was a modest one; namely providing coverage of Connecticut sports on cable. When RCA engineers told him their satellites could beam sports programming all over the country, ESPN was launched. Berman pointed out it was Rasmussen who approached NFL Commissioner Pete Rozelle about putting the NFL draft on television. “Why would anyone want to watch that? It would be like watching someone read the names in a phone book!” Rozelle incredulously replied. The late Greg Gumbel also was inducted. He was the original morning man at WFAN sports
radio when it was located at the Kaufman Astoria Studios. He was the first Black American to call play-by-play on a Super Bowl telecast. Greg’s brother, Bryant, has been battling health issues, so Seth Davis, his longtime partner on CBS’s “Selection Sunday” telecast for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, gave the speech. Davis got laughs when he said his only disagreement with Gumbel was their Rolling Stones vs. Bruce Springsteen debate. Gumbel was an fan of Mick, Keith and the rest of the guys. Davis was in the Boss’s camp. David Levy ran Turner Sports for 23 years. He was able to obtain broadcast rights for every major sport except for the NFL. It was Levy who put together the impactful basketball studio show “Inside the NBA,” starring Charles Barkley, Shaquille O’Neal, Ernie Johnson and Kenny Smith, who grew up in Lefrak City and graduated from Archbishop Molloy High School. The most touching moment of the evening was when former Madison Square Garden president and Neponsit native Joe Cohen, inducted in 2016, received a replacement award because his original was lost in last winter’s Pacific Palisades fire in which his home burned down. “I am very appreciative to be the only person to ever be inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Q Fame twice!” he quipped. See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.
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Internal coalition’s candidates aim to balance stadium shows, quality of life by Stephanie G. Meditz Editor
The Forest Hills Gardens Corp.’s newly elected board could shift the resident association’s dynamic with Forest Hills Stadium. All seven candidates put forth by Forest Hills Gardens Stand Up, a coalition that formed in response to dissatisfaction with the outgoing board’s operations, were elected earlier this month. The group cites “secrecy, divisiveness and a lack of community input” in the outgoing board’s decisions about the stadium, which have involved multiple lawsuits. “I never thought that the actions of the few people on the board who took a very drastic position matched the wider sentiment in the community,” said Brittany Russell, one of FHG Stand Up’s candidates. “And now that we’ve had an election and a vote on it, it turns out that that was correct, and that the community just doesn’t support such a drastic approach.” Jeff Mitchell, another newly elected member, hopes to find common ground, resolve qualityof-life issues such as noise and crowds and find a way for concerts to continue while ensuring respect for the Gardens’ private streets. “We want to focus our energies on that and not on fighting in court and letting judges have to make those decisions,” Mitchell said. The Gardens Corp. has filed lawsuits against the city as well as the West Side Tennis Club, which houses the stadium, and Tiebreaker Productions, which runs concerts there. Mitchell also emphasized proper funding for the Gardens Corp. to serve the neighborhood, given how much money had been spent on litigation with “no result to date.” FHG Stand Up has claimed that the outgoing board spent more than $1 million in resident funds on lawsuits without proper disclosure or consent, though the sitting panel has denied any secrecy. Mitchell later noted that the stadium has long coexisted with the neighborhood, and the
The Forest Hills Gardens Corp.’s new board could change the association’s relationship with Forest Hills Stadium, as litigation has gone on for years. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN / FILE board’s new members want to restore “whatever that balance is that worked before.” The FHG Stand Up candidates in contested races won about 56 percent of the vote, Mitchell said. They now make up nearly half of the FHGC’s 15-member board. Russell said their goal is not to “give up on important issues,” but rather work toward a resolution that improves quality of life for the stadium’s neighbors, compensates the Gardens Corp. for the use of its streets and acknowledges the stadium’s “right to exist.” Grace Smoker, a spokesperson for Forest Hills Stadium, said the venue looks forward to working with the newly elected board and remains committed to “open communication and cooperation toward pathways that benefit the entire community.” The outgoing board declined to comment Q on the results.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY HOLIDAYS!! From
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Joann Ariola
NYC Councilwoman District 32 Ozone Park Office 93-06 101st Avenue Ozone Park, NY 11416 Phone: 718-738-1083
District Offices
Rockaway Office 114-12 Beach Channel Drive, Suite 1 Rockaway Park, NY 11694 Phone: 718-318-6411
December 25, 2025
Page 21 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING
Estevez said. DJ Eddie C will be providing the musical entertainment, right through the midnight countdown. The inclusive cost of $140 per person includes champagne at midnight. Reservations are required at (718) 423-0100, by fax at (718) 423-0102,by email at contact@ marbella-restaurant.com or marbella-restaurant.com. Donovan’s Pub, located at 57-24 Roosevelt Ave. in Woodside is taking reservations. “We’re going to be open for regular business, but we’re also having a party,” Manager Chris Santangelo said. “People can come in if they want. Reservations [for the New Year’s Eve festivities] are recommended. You can show up but reservations are highly recommended.”
The New Year’s celebration runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. in the main dining room and will have live music by The Flynns. There will be an open bar, and guests will be offered choices of appetizers, entrees and desserts. “Plus champagne and the countdown,” Santangelo said. He reiterated that patrons electing to pass on the party are just as welcome. Tickets for the celebration are $79 plus tax and gratuities, or $55 for a non-alcohol ticket. Information is available at (718) 429-9339, info@ donovansny.com or online at donovansny.com. continued on page 23
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by M Michael i h Gannon So you love celebrating New Year’s Eve, but this year don’t necessarily want to be out in Times Square with the crowds and temperatures forecast to be in the high 20s? There are plenty of places in Queens waiting to welcome revelers in settings ranging from formal to casual. Marbella at 220-33 Northern Blvd. in Bayside will be having a New Year’s Eve gala dinner featuring its Spanish and continental cuisine. Manager Juan Estevez told the Chronicle the restaurant has plenty of experience, having hosted a New Year’s celebration for about 40 years. “Music and dancing, open bar, party favors and a sit-down dinner with appetizers, family style,”
QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 22 For the latest news visit qchron.com
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 #: 709726/2019 WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST Plaintiff, vs MICHELLE DAWN TUCK-THOMAS AS ADMINISTRATOR AND AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF BARBARA TUCK, KEISHA TUCK AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF BARBARA TUCK, FELICIA TUCK WINSTEAD AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF BARBARA TUCK, LAWRENCE WILLIAMS AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF LARRY WILLIAMS 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, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF LARRY WILLIAMS 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, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATION BUREAU, NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU, NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD, MIDLAND FUNDING LLC, RIVERWALK HOLDING LTD, PERFECT DEVELOPMENT NY INC., DAVID “DOE”, NERO “DOE”, CLIVE “DOE” Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 153-27 118TH AVENUE JAMAICA, NY 11434 To the Above named Defendnt: 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 Lawrence Williams as Heir to the Estate of Larry Williams and Unknown Heirs of Larry Williams Defendants In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Alan Schiff of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Tenth day of December, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Jamaica. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Barbara Tuck (who died on October 22, 2017, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) and Larry Williams (who died on October 1, 2021, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) dated the September 8, 2006, to secure the sum of $245,500.00 and recorded at CRFN 2006000573034 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on October 13, 2006. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed February 11, 2009 and recorded on July 23, 2009, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2009000226776. The mortgage was subsequently modified on October 3, 2011. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed September 2, 2016 and recorded on September 23, 2016, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2016000332511. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 21, 2018 and recorded on January 11, 2019, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2019000013833. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed December 10, 2024 and recorded on January 9, 2025, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2025000009006. The property in question is described as follows: 153-27 118TH AVENUE, JAMAICA, NY 11434 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: December 12, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 88446
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I HAVE OFTEN WALKED
Eli Mintz: Child actor found work, fame in the U.S. by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor
Ludwig Satz was born on Aug. 1, 1904 in Lemberg, Galicia, Austria-Hungary, which is now in Ukraine. He worked as a child actor, immigrated to New York City in 1920 and naturalized in 1947. He decided to continue acting and changed his name to Eli Mintz. He married Hasha Saks in September 1943. The couple had two daughters, Leona and Iva. In 1949 he landed the role as Home of character actor Eli Mintz 86-11 Kingston Place Uncle David on the TV show in Jamaica Estates, as it looked in the 1950s when he INSET BY BOWMAN GUM COMPANY VIA WIKIPEDIA “The Goldbergs,” appearing in lived there. 66 episodes. The comedy/ drama, which began on radio in 1929, depict- public when the Goldbergs moved to the subed members of a Jewish family struggling urbs and it was cancelled. He kept acting, winning a “Clio Award” with assimilation while sustaining their Jewish roots in The Bronx. Nielsen ratings esti- for an Alka-Seltzer commercial. He was mated 10 million viewers every week. The nominated for a Daytime Emmy in 1980 for show’s success enabled him to buy a house at an appearance on “All My Children.” Later, 86-11 Kingston Place in Jamaica Estates. In he moved to Point Pleasant, NJ, where he 1957 the show was not received well by the died June 8, 1988, of pneumonia at age 83. Q
by Naeisha Rose editor
There are two major upcoming Kwanzaa events in the World’s Borough. People can expect music, performances, acknowledgement of youth leaders and food at The Kwanzaa Ball, hosted by nonprofits Victorious and The 876 Project, at The Edward Davis Center in St. Albans, Sunday, Dec. 28, starting at 6 p.m. Leaders of the Southeast Queens community, such as state Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans); Saeeda Dunston, CEO of Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities; Kevin Livingston, of 100 Suits; Khaair Morrison, a community advocate; Clarisa James, of Divas 4 Social Justice; Syreeta Gates, of The Gates Preserve; Kesi Gordon, of The Victorious Foundation; Abigail Masters, of the NAACP Youth Committee; and more, will be celebrated, or their organizations will be at the center, located at 118-35 Farmers Blvd., for the second annual event. If interested in attending the event, peop l e m ay r e g i s t e r a t t i ny u r l .c o m / registerkwanzaaball. The start of the ball, which has the theme: A Night of Culture and Cooperative Joy, will have African drumming and a recognition ceremony of the first four principals of Kwanzaa.
Tunisia Morrison, left, executive director of The 876 Project, is the co-host of The Kwanzaa Ball in St. Albans. Last year, Kevin Livingston, right, won an award, and this PHOTOS COURTESY THE 876 PROJECT year his organization, 100 Suits, will be recognized. Those are Umoja, Kujichagulia, Ujima and Ujamaa, which mean unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility and cooperative economics, respectively. The recognition will be followed by a poem and a second ceremony for the remaining principals, which are Nia, Kuumba and Imani, which mean purpose, creativity and faith. The distribution of community awards for SEQ leaders, a performance of the Black
National Anthem, art displays and a networking mixer will close out the event. “The Kwanzaa Ball is more than a celebration — it’s a fundraiser that fuels yearround community programming in Southeast Queens,” said Tunisia Morrison, executive director of The 876 Project, via email. “This year, we’re raising $25,000 to expand youth tech access, entrepreneurship training, cultural arts programming, and our upcoming Juneteenth in Queens 2026 festi-
val. Every dollar helps us build a stronger, more connected community.” Guests may expect cultural performances, words of wisdom, refreshments and more at Borough President Donovan Richard’s event, which will be held at the Helen Marshall Cultural Center in Kew Gardens, Tuesday, Dec. 30, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. People interested in attending may RSVP at queensbp.nyc.gov/RSVP. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. so guests will have enough time to settle down before a screening of “The Black Candle,” a documentary about the struggle and triumph of the AfricanAmerican family, community and culture using, Kwanzaa as a throughline. The screening will be followed by a candle lighting ceremony and cultural performances, said Chris Barca, the BP’s spokesman. Richards and the Rev. John Boyd of New Greater Bethel Ministries are both expected to speak at the event. “Kwanzaa is a wonderful holiday that brings the residents of Queens and people around the world together to take pride in the greatness of African American culture and heritage,” said Richards. “I hope this year’s Kwanzaa celebrations inspire us to continue to build stronger, more unified communities where we work together to Q further the common good.”
Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
Kwanzaa 2025: poetry, candlelighting and more
Who needs Times Square on New Year’s Eve?
Crossword Answers
headphones, a champagne toast at midnight and a raffle. “It’s a laid-back way to celebrate New Year’s without all the holiday stress,” Morinelli said. The Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden is located at 29-19 24th Ave. in Astoria. Information is available at (718) 274-4925, fax at (718) 728-9278, online at bohemianhall.com or events@bohemianhall.com. A sample of other celebrations in Queens includes Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, with three separate New Year’s Eve celebrations advertised in its website, terraceonthepark.com. Resorts World New York City in South Ozone Park will host a free concert featuring The Priceless Band and DJ L.A.X in Poseidon’s Palace beginning at 9 p.m., calling it, “A night of music, magic and a midnight countdown you won’t forget.” Resorts World is located at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd. Information is available at rwnewyork.com. Q.E.D. in Astoria will host a New Year’s Eve Balldrop Edition standup comedy show beginning at 10:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at qedastoria.com or $20 at the door. Formal wear is not required but is encouraged. Further information is available
Staying home with friends on New Year’s Eve? Some fancy crackers can turn cheese and cold cuts into a charcuterie tray. On the cover: You can ring in 2026 in Queens. at (347) 451-3873 or at QEDNewYork@ gmail.com. QED is located at 27-16 23 Ave. in Astoria. If you and yours prefer to celebrate at home, a number of television networks will host celebrations. CBS will host “New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash” beginning at 8 p.m. with a 30 -minute break for local
news at 10 p.m. NBC will show “A Toast to 2025!” hosted by Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager with celebrity guests beginning at 10 p.m. “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2026” airs on ABC at 8 p.m. “CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen” Q begins at 8 p.m.
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continued from page 21 The Bohemian Hall & Beer Garden in Astoria is returning with the Silent Disco event it hosted last year. “We have three DJs,” Business Manager Andrew Morinelli said. “You choose a set of wireless headphones and listen to one of the three and you can dance in the open.” Tickets are $31.85 including fees and taxes online at quietevents.com; and $41.11 at the door. Admission includes
QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 24
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Legal Notices
Legal Notices
Notice of Formation of CASTLE VIEW ASSOCIATES, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/20/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: CASTLE VIEW ASSOCIATES, LLC, 4003 164TH STREET, P.O. BOX 43, FLUSHING, NY 11358. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Notice of Formation of GLOW WITH THE FLOW, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/21/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 22-25 29TH STREET, ASTORIA, NY 11105. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Glamroute
Notice of Formation of IT STARTS HERE, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/02/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 128-35 233RD ST., ROSEDALE, NY 11422. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
LLC
filed
8/28/24. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail to: 4314 157th Flushing,
St.,
2nd
NY
Purp: any lawful.
Fl,
11355.
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Page 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 26 For the latest news visit qchron.com
UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR SECURITIZED ASSET BACKED RECEIVABLES LLC TRUST 2006-FR2 MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FR2, -against- DENARDO R. PITTER A/K/A DENARDO PITTER, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, filed in the office of the clerk on and entered with the Clerk on September 30, 2025, wherein WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR SECURITIZED ASSET BACKED RECEIVABLES LLC TRUST 2006-FR2 MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-FR2 is the Plaintiff and DENARDO R. PITTER A/K/A DENARDO PITTER, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM #25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on 01/14/2026 at 11:00AM, premises known as 188-01 KEESEVILLE AVENUE, SAINT ALBANS, New York 11412; and the following tax map identification, -10427-49. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK, All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. Dated: Melissa Mohan, Esq. Court Appointed Referee
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS INC., ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-SD4, Plaintiff against JYNELL ROLLINS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered November 24, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 16, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Premises known as 20405 115th Avenue, St. Albans, NY 11412. Block 11021 Lot 7. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $698,808.73 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 710627/2019. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Autrey Glen Johnson, Esq., Referee File # 8986695 LANVS
INVESTIGATIONS
LLC,
Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/10/2025. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be
served.
SSNY
shall
process to: The LLC, 215-10 112th Avenue, Queens Village, NY 11429. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS MANUFACTURERS AND TRADERS TRUST COMPANY, A/K/A M&T BANK, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER WITH HUDSON CITY SAVINGS BANK, Plaintiff AGAINST STEPHANIE D. SINAI; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered August 22, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on January 23, 2026 at 10:00 AM, premises known as 8210 214th Street, Hollis Hills, NY 11427. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block: 7805 Lot: 41. Approximate amount of judgment $909,597.99 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #721068/2021. For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www. Auction.com or call (800) 280-2832. Joseph Frank Defelice, Esq., Referee Fein, Such & Crane, LLP 28 East Main Street, Rochester, NY 14614. CHJNC396 87870 Notice of Formation of KAI NGERN KAI TONG LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/11/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: PHAIPHAN SANGTIPPAWAN, 8206 34TH AVE. APT. 3D, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
KIRBY ASSOCIATES LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/17/25. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 3999 48th Street, Sunnyside, NY 11104. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF THE RESIDENTIAL CREDIT OPPORTUNITIES TRUST VIII-A, Plaintiff, vs. ANY UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES OR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE LATE NELSON CANO A/K/A NELSON RODRIGO CANO, IF LIVING, AND IF ANY BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS WHO ARE SPOUSES, WIDOWS, GRANTEES, MORTGAGEES, LIENORS, HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS OR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF SUCH OF THEM AS MAY BE DEAD, AND THEIR SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBTUTEES AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 23, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 23, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 92-21 Winchester Boulevard, Queens Village, NY 11428. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 10736 and Lot 35. Approximate amount of judgment is $515,164.20 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 705735/2018. Joseph N. Armao, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff. Firm File No.: 230144-1
P11 LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 03/12/2004. 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, 11-11 44th Drive, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
To Advertise Call 718-205-8000
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.
Furn. Rm. For Rent Howard Beach. Furnished Room for Rent. All Utilities Included. Close to transportation & shopping. $250 per week plus security deposit. Please call or text: 718-772-6127
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Call 718-205-8000 SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS. CITIMORTGAGE, INC., SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO ABN AMRO MORTGAGE GROUP, INC., Plaintiff against MAURICE H. OPARAJI A/K/A MAURICE OPARAJI A/K/A MAURICE UD OPARAJI, ADA PATIENCE OPARAJI A/K/A ADA P. OPARAJI, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated July 21, 2025 and entered on July 22, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., in Courtroom # 25, Jamaica, NY January 9, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at the corner formed by the intersection of the northerly side of 133rd Road with the easterly side of 245th Street; RUNNING THENCE northerly along the easterly side of 245th Street, 78.34 feet; THENCE southerly along a line forming an interior angle of 15 degrees 17 minutes 45 seconds with the easterly side of 245th Street, 26.19 feet; THENCE northeasterly along a line forming an interior angle of 274 degrees 52 minutes 35 seconds with the preceding course, 77.86 feet; THENCE southerly along a line forming an interior angle of 69 degrees 49 minutes 40 seconds with the preceding course, 79.91 feet to the northerly side of 133rd Road; THENCE westerly along the northerly side of 133rd Road, 80 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING. Block: 13209 Lot: 80 Said premises known as 245-11 133RD ROAD, ROSEDALE, NY 11422 Approximate amount of lien $428,081.71 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Index Number 704318/2019. MONICA MORAN, ESQ., Referee David A. Gallo & Associates LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030 File# 7613.70
1S8C
Arts.
Notice of Formation: ABC United
FIRM LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with
of Org. filed with the SSNY on
Consulting LLC. Arts of Org filed
the SSNY on 12/04/25. Office:
03/14/16. Office: Queens County.
with Sec. of State of New York
Queens
County.
SSNY
desig-
nated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.
SSNY shall mail copy
HOLDINGS
LLC.
SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Refoilio Holdings LLC,
(SSNY)
11/04/2025.Office
in
Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of
LLC
upon
whom
process
against it may be served & shall
of process to the LLC, 24-41
116-55 Queens Blvd, Ste 206,
mail process to the LLC, 40-50
31st Street, Astoria, NY 11102.
Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose:
192ND ST, FLUSHING, NY 11358.
Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Any lawful purpose.
Purpose: General
BLUE SUNDAY LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/18/25. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 32-36 81st St., East Elmhurst, NY 11370. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
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PATRICIA WILLIAMS CONSULTING
File No.: 2022-3730/B SUPPLEMENTAL CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORKBY THE GRACE OF GOD, FREE AND INDEPENDENT To: Jean Ellis, Estate of Rita Golub, Dori Appleman, Susan Cohn, Estate of Patricia Kabram, Karen Margol, Babette Spitler, Robert Stern, Paul Stern, Attorney General of the State of New York The unknown distributees, legatees, devisees, heirs at law and assignees of VIDA BRENDER, 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 Paul Wilson, if living and if dead, to their heirs at law, next of kin and distributees whose names and places of residence are unknown and if they died subsequent to the decedent herein, to their executors, administrators, legatees, devisees, assignees and successors in interest whose names and places of residence are unknown and cannot be ascertained after due diligence. Being the persons interested as creditors, legatees, distributees or otherwise in the Estate of VIDA BRENDER, deceased, who at the time of death was a resident of 99-40 63rd Road, Apt. 1Y, Rego Park, NY 11374, in the County of Queens, State of New York. SEND GREETING: Upon the petition of LOIS M. ROSENBLATT, 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 VIDA BRENDER, 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 15th day of January, 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 $13,358.18 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 6% 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 21st day of November, 2025 HON. CASSANDRA A. JOHNSON Surrogate, Queens County Janet Edwards Tucker Chief Clerk GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ. (718) 459-9000 1981 Marcus Avenue, Suite 200 Lake Success, New York 11042 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
Page 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025
SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY, U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 2019-1, Plaintiff against ZENTENO CORP.; VICTORINA DOMINGUEZ, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered January 17, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at steps of Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Premises known as 80-09 Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson Heights, New York 11372. Block 1291 Lot 43. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Second Ward in the Borough of Queens, County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $2,924,513.60 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No. 714725/2021. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Michael Cervini, Esq., Referee. File # 23-000632-01
SUMMONS–SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF QUEENS – WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY FSB D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST, Plaintiff, -against- UNKNOWN HEIRS-AT-LAW, NEXT-OF-KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS OR PARTIES HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH THE DECEDENTS CARIDAD MORRISION A/K/A CARIDAD MORRISON GREEN AND DAPHNEY JOHNSON, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN; MONICA STARKE, AND DOROTHY EDITH JOHNSON, AS HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DAPHNEY JOHNSON; DONOVAN JOHNSON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DAPHNEY JOHNSON, IF HE BE LIVING AND IF HE BE DEAD, THE UNKNOWN HEIRS-AT-LAW, NEXT-OF-KIN, DISTRIBUTEES, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, TRUSTEES, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST AND GENERALLY ALL PERSONS AND PARTIES HAVING OR CLAIMING, UNDER, BY OR THROUGH DONOVAN JOHNSON AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DAPHNEY JOHNSON, BY PURCHASE, INHERITANCE, LIEN OR OTHERWISE, ANY RIGHT, TITLE OR INTEREST IN AND TO THE PREMISES DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT HEREIN; SUZETTE WALKER, HYACINTH STERLING A/K/A MARIE STERLING AND FAYETTE LAWRENCE AKA SHARON BENNET, AS HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF CARIDAD MORRISON A/K/A CARIDAD MORRISON GREEN; PUBLIC ADMINISTRATOR OF QUEENS COUNTY; ARROW FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC; MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC; CITIBANK, N.A.; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT); “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10” inclusive, the names of the ten last name Defendants being fictitious, real names unknown to the Plaintiff, the parties intended being persons or corporations having an interest in, or tenants or persons in possession of, portions of the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint, Defendants - Index No. 715095/2024 Plaintiff Designates Queens County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject premises is situated in Queens County. To the above named Defendants – 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 Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance upon the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the date of service or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York. If you fail to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated October 10, 2025. NOTICEYOU 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 (WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY FSB D/B/A CHRISTIANA TRUST NOT INDIVIDUALLY BUT AS TRUSTEE FOR PRETIUM MORTGAGE ACQUISITION TRUST) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Denise N. Johnson, J.S.C. Dated: October 10, 2025 Filed: October 15, 2025. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 137-37 234th Street, Rosedale, NY 11422. Dated: July 22, 2024 Filed: July 23, 2024 Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Jordan J. Manfro, Esq., 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591 Phone: (914) 345-3020
NOTICE OF SALE
QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 25, 2025 Page 28
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