Queens Chronicle South Edition 01-23-25

C M SQ page 1 Y K SOUTH QUEENS EDITION Serving Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, City Line and JFK Airport

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER VOL. XLVIII

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23, 2025

NO. 4

SANCTUARY SHOWDOWN

GOING OFFLINE Schools set to ban phone use

Section

PAGES 18-20

TWIN PEEKS Mrs. gallery hosts two exhibits in two spaces

qboro PAGE 23

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL SHAIN, AND, RIGHT, GAGE SKIDMORE / FLICKR

PAGE 8

RELIGIOUS SCHOOLS OPEN HOUSE

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Trump cracking down on immigration PAGE 2 President Trump in his first few days in office ramped up border policies and signed an executive order revoking birthright citizenship. The fates of the city’s migrants, many of whom live in Queens communities such as Jackson Heights and Elmhurst, above, are yet to be determined.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 2

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Immigration action on day one: Trump Challenges birthright citizenship, declares border state of emergency

by Stephanie G. Meditz

H

Associate Editor

ours after his inauguration on Monday, President Trump showed a commitment to many of his campaign promises by signing dozens of executive orders.

Before taking office, Trump had said he intended to declare a national emergency at the border and use the military to carry out mass deportations. He made that declaration shortly after his second term began.

Invoking the National Emergencies Act, he signed an order authorizing the U.S. Armed Forces to help the Department of Homeland Security curb illegal entry at the southern border.

Trump’s administration also acted swiftly to shut down CBP One, an app with which migrants could submit advance information and make appointments to appear at eight southwestern ports of entry. The BBC reported that it was the only legal pathway to declare asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Congress may limit the president’s emergency powers through a joint resolution if both chambers believe he is acting irresponsibly or the threat has subsided, The New York Times reported, but that is unlikely since both are controlled by Republicans. Trump also would have the power to veto that resolution.

It remains to be seen how and when Trump’s intended mass repatriations will occur. Even more uncertain is the outcome of his efforts in places such as Queens, where more than half of adults were born outside the United States, both those with and without legal status.

Of the 23,000 street vendors in the city, including the many who operate in Corona Plaza and on Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights, the majority are immigrants, people of color, veterans and women.

Anticipating Trump’s mass repatriation efforts, some street vendors and immigrant rights advocates on Monday urged local leaders to expand protections for vulnerable migrant business owners.

“Vendors who are immigrants make our city’s vibrant food culture and embody NYC’s entrepreneurial spirit,” Carina Kaufman-Gutierrez, the Street Vendor Project’s deputy director, said in a press release.

Mayor Adams met with President Trump last Friday in Palm Beach, Fla., ahead of the inauguration. While Adams said in a statement that the two discussed various issues affecting the city, he did not describe the specifics of their conversation regarding migrants and asylum seekers.

Asked at a Tuesday press conference whether he will cooperate with Immigration and

Many of the city’s street vendors, such as the ones seen above in Southeast Queens, are immigrants. It is yet unknown how President Trump’s newest executive orders will affect PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON / FILE them.

Customs Enforcement agents if they come to the city, he said he is “not going to keep having the same conversation over and over again.”

“We want to bring down the anxiety. We want our immigrants to know this is a city of immigrants, this is a country of immigrants,” he said.

Adams has repeatedly deferred to the City Council when asked whether sanctuary poli-

cies, which limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal officials on immigration laws, would remain.

The Council leadership favors sanctuary policies, but not all members do.

“Aiding and abetting migrant criminals by prohibiting local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE violates federal law,” Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) said in an emailed statement. “The New York City Council is too radical to change course and clearly doesn’t care about their constituents. Mayor Eric Adams must stop hiding behind them and work with ICE to remove criminals who shouldn’t be here. We need to repeal sanctuary city and state laws.”

Following his meeting with border czar Tom Homan last month, Adams said the two had the same goal of targeting violent offenders and he would look into his own powers of executive orders to target “dangerous people.”

Citing ICE data, several published news reports said at the end of last year that about 60,000 criminal noncitizens live in the city.

“If you are here legally, there should be no problem,” Holden said when asked how the new developments will affect Queens’ large immigrant population. “If you are here illegally and commit crimes in NYC, you should be deported. Period.” continued on page 14

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Fight against illicit vendors carries on Addabbo, DSNY continue efforts to combat unlicensed sales in SD 15

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

In an effort to tackle unlicensed fruit vending in his district, state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) last November penned a letter sent to the city departments of Sanitation, Transportation, Health and Consumer and Worker Protection, along with the NYPD. “I am writing on behalf of my constituents, who are increasingly concer ned about the negative impact of illegal vending has on our local economy and neighborhood safety,” Addabbo wrote in the letter, dated Nov. 14. “It is crucial that we take decisive action on following the current laws of our city and support our legitimate business owners. I urge the city agencies to collaborate on a series of targeted enforcement sweeps to address this issue head-on.”

Now, just over two months later, the senator gave kudos to the DSNY for its efforts.

In a press release, Addabbo’s office said the agency has “worked expeditiously to issue violations and confiscate the unlawful produce.”

The target locations thus far, according to Addabbo’s office, are Liberty Avenue from Lefferts Bou-

An unlicensed fruit vendor was recently penalized for setting up shop at Liberty Avenue and Lefferts Boulevard in RichPHOTO COURTESY NYS SENATE mond Hill, part of the city Department of Sanitation’s effort to tackle illicit vending issues. levard to 112th Street; Jamaica Avenue at Forest Parkway; and Jamaica Avenue at Lefferts Boulevard.

The DSNY conducted several vending inspections along the Jamaica Avenue corridor, totaling 45 visits. Summonses were issued and thousands of pounds of illegal pro-

duce were seized and later donated or composted, whichever deemed appropriate.

Though conditions have improved over the past few weeks, Addabbo said the effort must be persistent and continuous.

“I applaud the DSNY for their

speedy action in beginning to eradicate the illegal vending operations that have been creating dangerous situations in the community like blocking sidewalks, crosswalks and bus stops, selling illegal goods, among other offenses,” Addabbo said, adding that he and his team

will remain vigilant in monitoring until all illegal vending has ceased.

“I want to take a moment to also thank the NYPD for dealing with open f lame issues along Jamaica Avenue — combating the scourge of illegal vending operations requires a multi-agency effort to make it happen,” Addabbo said.

One licensed fruit store owner with a shop on Jamaica Avenue in Woodhaven, who previously told the Chronicle of his discomfort with the illegal vendors as competition, confirmed that the unlicensed stands are appearing less often.

“I think maybe the weather has something to do with it, too,” he said. “But they are outside less.”

One customer, Grace Martinez, told the Chronicle she “feels better” buying her produce from a licensed vendor instead of a streetside, illicit stand.

“I’ve seen them setting up across from Chase bank [on Forest Parkway and Jamaica Avenue], but I don’t buy from there,” Martinez said. “I want to support real small business owners who follow the laws and regulations that come with it. It’s just safer — at least I know they’re getting the produce safely, Q you know?”

QueensLink gets $400K from USDOT Award will be used to perform study of proposed rail project’s impacts

by Kristen Guglielmo

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Editor

QueensLink, a project that would use the abandoned Rockaway Beach Branch rail line to create the borough’s first north-south subway route, recently received a $400,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

The award comes as part of the agency’s Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Biden. It will be used to perform a study to measure the social, environmental, economic and equitable impacts of the proposed “rails and trails” project.

An opposing plan, QueensWay, the city-supported proposal to convert 3.5 miles of abandoned Long Island Rail Road tracks into a linear park, received $117 million in federal funding in March of last year. The QueensLink plan includes both parkland and a railway.

The project would extend the M train from Queens Boulevard to the Rockaways via a transit corridor parallel to Woodhaven Boulevard and then the A train line, offering residents a

more direct route from Southern Queens into Manhattan. It also would create 33 acres of new parks and protected bike paths along the old LIRR right-of-way, according to its website, as well as a new subway tunnel from Queens Boulevard to Fleet Street in Forest Hills.

Four Southeast Queens elected officials, state Sens. James Sanders Jr. (D-South Ozone Park) and Leroy Comrie (D-St.Albans), Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson (D-South Ozone Park) and Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton) wrote a letter to Mayor Adams, dated Jan. 9, urging him to “not initiate any construction that would impede the reactivation” of the Rockaway Beach Branch line and future investment in QueensLink.

“Southeast Queens residents have long been excluded from the City’s core transit network and deprived of their fair share of transportation infrastructure investment,” the letter read.

The Mayor’s Office has in the past said QueensWay does not preclude an MTA project if the agency determines one is feasible. continued on page 14

QueensLink, a project that would create a north-south subway line through Central and South Queens, seen here in a rendering at Forest Park, received a $400,000 grant from the U.S. RENDERING VIA QUEENSLINK Department of Transportation.

C M SQ page 5 Y K Page 5 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

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Hochul seeks $252B state spending plan Governor says proposal increases affordability; critics call it unafforable

by Michael Gannon

She also wants $110 million for childcare facilities and $100 million for starter homes Gov. Hochul on Tuesday proposed a steep and downpayment help for first-time home hike in state spending while leaving a lot of buyers.

But many of Hochul’s initiatives will the details on funding to be worked out in require close cooperation from Democrats in negotiations with the state Legislature.

Hochul’s executive budget plan calls for Albany or Republicans in Washington, DC. Discussing New York City’s subways dur$252 billion in spending for fiscal year 2026, ing the public safety section of her talk, which begins April 1.

Last year’s budget deal was approved at Hochul said she is committed to improving $237 billion, though the administration’s lighting, adding platform barriers and modnumbers predict it will come in balanced at ernizing turnstiles.

“We’ll also strengthen our laws surround$240 billion in spending when the books are closed out at the end of March. The $252 bil- ing involuntary commitment,” she said, “Our subways cannot be rolling homeless shelters. lion marks a 5 percent increase over that.

Hochul’s plan forecasts deficits of $6.4 bil- We must have the ability to help those who lion, $9.7 billion and $11 billion for fiscal aren’t able to seek help themselves, who are refusing help with the basics, like clothing, years 2027 through 2029.

Hochul says she is not proposing income food, and shelter. This is about showing tax increases, and that the budget will be humanity for fellow human beings, who are suffering from menfunded by revenue tal illness that is litthat is up nearly 8 erally putting their percent. and the lives of “A budget is more budget is more than just lives others in danger.” than just figures on a Democratic leadpage,” she said in a figures on a page ... ” ers in the state Sent ra nscr ipt on her ate and Assembly, official website. “It — Gov. Kathy Hochul however, traditionaltells the story of who ly have been unwillwe a re, what we value and who we’re fighting for. New York ing to toughen involuntary commitment laws.

Hochul also has pledged $154 million to is a complex state. We have great wealth and great need. Our challenge is to foster an envi- fund six months of overtime to allow the ronment where success thrives while making NYPD to put two police officers on all oversure those who feel left behind can still see a night trains on most subway routes. The first $77 million is coming from the present budpath forward.”

Hochul is proposing increasing the child get. The last three months would require tax credits from $330 to $1,000 for children funding in a new budget.

Hochul said she wants to close loopholes under age 4, and $500 for school-age children. She wants a one-time payment of $500 in the discovery process of criminal court to families and $300 for individuals in low- cases that have led to many cases being and middle-income brackets, costing $3 thrown out on technicalities — loopholes created by the Legislature in 2019. billion.

There also right now is a gap of about $33 Hochul has yielded to pressure to allow full or “hold harmless” funding for all school billion in the Metropolitan Transportation districts, even those that have fewer students Authority’s request for a five-year, $68 bilor are well-to-do; universal free school lunch lion capital plan.

The governor acknowledged that President and breakfast at $120 million. The governor also wants children banned from using their Trump and new congressional leadership can phones during school hours [see separate greatly help or greatly hinder Albany’s efforts. story in some editions or at qchron.com].

Senior News Editor

For the latest news visit qchron.com

“A

“Let me be clear: Changes at the federal level will create new challenges for the state and for programs New Yorkers care about,” Hochul said. “It’s already started. And if the Republicans in power cut critical federal funding streams for Medicaid, education, child care, utility assistance — the list goes on. Those who are hurt need to raise their voices, direct their anger at Washington and push their Members of Congress to fight for them. Because New York and other States simply will not be able to shoulder these costs on our own.”

She said members of the state’s congressional delegation, particularly Republicans, need to be held accountable to prevent cuts.

Hochul also appears to be going all in on calls to eliminate the cap on state and local tax — or SALT — deductions on federal income tax returns. The present $10,000 deduction cap was passed during Trump’s first administration with his support. Many Republicans right now are talking about raising the cap, but not eliminating it.

Writing on X, state Sen. Minority Leader Robert Ortt (R-Lockport) was unimpressed with Hochul’s proposal.

“The only thing bold about the Governor’s budget plan is the amount of new spending,” Ortt posted. “Once again, we are on track to spend more and pass those costs on to hardworking New Yorkers. There is nothing in the budget to address affordability in the long term.”

Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, was direct in his concerns.

“Despite strong revenues and continued economic growth, Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget weakens the State’s fiscal foundation and competitiveness,” Rein wrote.

“It balloons spending, fails to restrain unaffordable Medicaid and education spending growth, spreads many ‘affordability’ programs too thin to provide meaningful relief, and extends the ‘temporary’ income tax surcharge.”

Rein added that while the budget includes proposals such as an expanded child tax credit and middle-class tax cuts that could improve New Yorkers’ lives, the state cannot

Gov. Hochul delivers her executive budget.

PHOTO BY MIKE GROLL / NYS GOVERNOR’S OFFICE

afford them in the long run unless it restrains spending elsewhere.

Hochul acknowledged the need to reform the school aid funding formula, saying the process already has begun.

“We’re replacing 20-year-old poverty metrics with current census data to more accurately determine student need,” she said.

“This will ensure State dollars reach the children who need them most. And let me be clear: I know that any change is hard ...

That’s why it’s important to know that the vast majority of schools will receive more money than they would have without these slight adjustments to the formula.”

Of the state’s $35 billion Medicare expenditure, Hochul said it will require federal assistance.

“We’ll take smart steps to control costs while protecting services,” she said. “We’ve secured federal approval for a new managed care assessment that will generate $1.6 billion annually. We’re investing nearly $1 billion in our safety net hospitals and continuing to fund our innovative social care networks.

We’ll continue working to ensure every New Yorker has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their zip code or their circumQ stances.”

Donate blood and save lives

Cops searching for phone thief

Seelochan; • American Airlines, First Floor Arrivals; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 7, at JFK Airport Terminal 8; blood drive coordinator Alex Perez; • Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society, basement; 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16, at 95-30 118 St. in Richmond Hill; blood drive coordinator Inderjeet Singh; and • Central Library, busmobile; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. in Jamaica; blood drive coordinator Q Nina Luca Bolowsky.

— Naeisha Rose

unknown and there were no injuPolice are seeking help in idenries reported. tifying a suspect wanted for a Anyone with information is grand larceny in Richmond Hill. asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 On Jan. 5, within the confines (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA and Transit District 20, cops (74782). The public can also subreceived a report that at about 3:30 p.m., a 24-year-old female This man is want- mit tips by logging onto nypdwas sitting on a northbound E ed for a grand crimestoppers.com, or by texting train at the Jamaica-Van Wyck larceny.

PHOTO 274637 (CRIMES) and then subway station when an unidentiCOURTESY NYPD entering TIP577, or by going to @nypdtips on X. fied male took her cellphone, an Q All tips are strictly confidential. iPhone 14 valued at approximately $1,200, from her left hand. He fled on foot to parts — Kristen Guglielmo

“Donate Today, Save Lives Tomorrow” is the motto of the New York Blood Center, which is seeking donors as the state continues to face a blood shortage.

To help via a blood donation or a financial gift to the nonprofit, visit nybc.org. All blood types are wanted.

There are four places in and around Eastern and Southeast Queens listed now to donate: • St. John’s University, Taffner Field House room 202; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at 8000 Utopia Pkwy. in Jamaica Estates; blood drive coordinator Safiyah

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Phone use could be banned in schools At budget announcement, Hochul outlines planned policy on devices

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Gov. Hochul on Tuesday during her budget announcement outlined her plan for a longanticipated cell phone ban for all New York public school students. The restrictions would start at the beginning of the next school year.

“A recent Pew research poll revealed that 72 percent of high school teachers across the nation report that cell phones in classrooms are a major distraction for their students,” Hochul said. “That same study found that 95 percent of high schoolers have access to smartphones and receive an alarming 250 notifications per day.”

She said that as a mother, she understands how difficult it can be for children to pay attention when “there’s a screen flashing in front of their face.” Because of that, she last year convened roundtables across the state to discuss the impact of smartphones in the classroom and on kids’ mental health in general.

“As a result of these conversations, I’m announcing today a proposal that will transform our classrooms: A new statewide policy to make classrooms distraction-free so our children can focus on the things that matter,” Hochul said.

At the start of the 2025-26 school year, all students would be required to disconnect

from their devices during school hours, impacts our students’ mental health.” from “bell to bell.”

She continued, “Following our engageEach school district would decide ment with parent leadership groups last how it wants to store devices and spring, in partnership with the Health ensure compliance, Hochul said, so Department, we’ve been working on an schools have f lexibility in their evaluation to better understand both how implementation. schools are implementing policies to “Of course, there will be exceptions restrict cell phones, and lessons learned for students who need their devices for from those implementations.” medical reasons, to assist non-English Lyle said the agency is looking forlanguage speakers and students with ward to partnering with Hochul to protect learning disabilities,” Hochul said. students’ mental health and safety.

The policy also would require Last September, the United Federation schools to provide for a method for parof Teachers outlined its support for a cell ents to contact their children when phone ban with conditions. necessary.

In a statement, Michael Mulgrew, the She said the state will provide finan- Gov. Hochul on Tuesday announced that her executive president of the UFT, said, “The UFT cial support — $13.5 million — for the budget proposal includes a ban on cell phones in schools. supports a statewide cell phone ban, with transition. safeguards, because educators see the Hochul also used the opportunity to tout support renovation and construction of pools, negative impact of cell phones in their classthe “Unplug and Play” initiative, which aims infrastructure and playgrounds, respectively. room every day.”

“We’ll fund 100 new playgrounds and creto steer kids away from social media and Mulgrew said the safeguards should toward activities such as youth sports, arts ate more than 100,000 new out-of-school include ways for parents to reach students; programs, civic engagement and community activities,” Hochul said. funding for school districts to implement a Asked for comment on the phone ban, plan; uniform disciplinary policies; and plans building.

Under her new budget plan, more than Jenna Lyle, a spokesperson for the city that don’t make educators the first and only $200 million would be allocated for the state Department of Education, said in a statement, line of enforcement.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Pres- “The feedback we have heard from our school He added, “We believe Governor Hochul ervation and partner agencies to invest in var- communities has been clear: access to cell understands these concerns and we look forious grants to support the NY Swims, NY phones in the classroom distracts from learn- ward to working with her and the legislature Q Bricks and NY Plays programs, which seek to ing, divides attention, and significantly to make this happen.”

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P No phones in schools

EDITORIAL

W

e are in full support of Gov. Hochul’s proposal to have students turn their cell phones in to school authorities when the day begins and get them back when the closing bell rings.

Whatever the inconvenience and cost might be, it will be worth it. Kids are far too distracted during class if they are on their phones, making it harder for teachers to teach. And the distraction can be near impossible to avoid: According to Hochul, a recent study found that 95 percent of high school kids have access to a smartphone, and they get an average of 250 notifications a day. That same study found that 72 percent of teachers say phones in class are a major distraction.

Kids are on their phones more than enough as it is and can only benefit from a break during the school day. It’s not as if anyone’s proposing that we do what China does — allowing kids under 14 to be on social media only 40 minutes a day. It’s just while they’re in class.

AGE

Kids here need to read serious material, such as books, more often, and nonsense, such as the words floating atop silly TikTok videos, less often. Beyond that, they also need to be physically active more. Never in history have children been so fat. So we also support the state investing more in parks, pools and playgrounds to get kids to do something, anything physical rather than stare at screens, get lethargic and see their self-confidence collapse.

If parents need to reach their children in an emergency, they can do what their own parents did: Call the school. Ensuring that children can be reached when needed is one of the safeguards the United Federation of Teachers said needs to be in place when bans take effect. We agree. The UFT also wants the proper funding for the work. Hochul said the state will provide $13.5 million. Of course that won’t be enough.

But the state that spends more per student than any other will find the money somewhere. For this policy, that’s the right call.

Fix this congestion fee flaw

T

he new congestion pricing tolls are supposed to be charged to people going into Manhattan, along with those who are already there, somewhere above 60th Street, and then head south into the Congestion Relief Zone.

So far, the results look great, as many people seem to have stopped driving into what officials previously called the Central Business District.

Traffic not just going into Manhattan but even on the highways surrounding it has been lighter since the new fees took effect.

But the toll is also being charged to many people going from Manhattan to Queens, and that should not be.

That’s because those who are in the city north of the tolled zone but then want to take the Ed Koch Queens-

LETTERS TO THE Published every week by

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MARK WEIDLER

President & Publisher SUSAN & STANLEY MERZON Founders Raymond G. Sito General Manager Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief Michael Gannon Senior News Editor Kristen Guglielmo Editor Naeisha Rose Editor Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor Stela Barbu Office Manager Jan Schulman Art Director Moeen Din Associate Art Director Gregg Cohen Editorial Production Manager Joseph Berni Art Department Associate Dennis O’Brien Proofreader Senior Account Executives: Jim Berkoff, Beverly Espinoza

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RIP, Larry Penner Dear Editor: We will miss Larry Penner. I knew him personally since here at the Brandywine senior community, his mother in law, Esther, was my friend and sat at the dining room table with me.

Wendy, his wife, was my friend as well, and she gave me a beautiful teddy bear that I cherished, dressed like a rabbi.

I loved Larry for his humor, his caring and his knowledge that he shared. He would visit his mother-in-law and spend time with me, since I have no visitors. May his memory be for a blessing.

Thanks to the Chronicle for publishing such a wonderful article indeed full of precious memories (“Larry Penner, retired transit official, dies,” Jan. 20, qchron.com). He was knowledgeable and warm-hearted, caring and sharing. He was a good soul. He was a prolific writer and cared for his community, his family and for mass transit. The wonderful article the Chronicle wrote about him is a eulogy indeed.

Cynthia Groopman Little Neck

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No vendors in BIDs Dear Editor: Here is something that must happen throughout the city.

Up and down Jamaica Avenue, street vendors hawk fast food, fruits and vegetables, and © Copyright 2025 by MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. All rights reserved.

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whatnot. They spread out, blocking the sidewalks. There are sanitation issues as well as propane-fueled stoves and open flames. To my out-of-town friends, it’s very quaint, reminiscent of Mulberry Street in “The Godfather Part II.” A slice of old New York.

At the same time, the shopkeepers, members of the Woodhaven Business Improvement District, pay to have the sidewalks cleaned, pay for the holiday lights and sponsor the annual street fair, all the while struggling with competition from national chains and shopping malls. And, of course, they have to pay rent!

Doubtless, it can’t be easy for street vendors, but they do have an unfair advantage. Unlike brick-and-mortar stores, the street vendors don’t have much overhead.

Vendor permits are issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs and Department of Health. These city agencies should limit, if not ban outright, street vendors within a BID. At the very least, the number and type of street vendors allowed in a BID should be subject to negotiation, real negotiation, between the

boro Bridge into Queens have to cross into the zone ever so briefly to get onto the span. That’s not right, and as letter writer David Soukup points out this week, the technology exists to easily fix the problem.

Those same people, who may live in Queens but work uptown, can avoid the toll on the way in by taking the bridge’s upper roadway, leading them to 62nd Street. (The MTA should install multiple signs on streets leading to the bridge that say so.) But they have to go one block into the zone to get the upper roadway going back.

“The 59th Street Bridge Song” by Queens’ own Simon and Garfunkel is great, but we’re not feelin’ groovy about folks here getting tolled on it when they’re homeward bound.

city agencies and the BIDs. The city must do everything it can to encourage small businesses, but it should never pit one group of small businesses against another.

Neil C. Giannelli Woodhaven

Empathy for the mentally ill Dear Editor: I almost cried when I read Frederick Bedell’s letter of Jan. 2, “Address mental illness.”

I felt such compassion for his story but was glad he was able to survive, all because of the kindness of a stranger.

Homelessness and mental illness are symptoms of a broken society. Gov. Hochul’s solution to put police on the subways for six months is a waste of time and money. The millions she is offering would be better spent in providing long-term psychiatric and follow-up care, as well as stable long-term Section 8 housing.

All politicians need to stop wasting our tax money on symptoms and, instead, direct it to

C M SQ page 11 Y K

the root of the problem. That is often not done because addressing the problem source is often more expensive than dealing with the symptom.

It’s like having a cough with bronchitis. You take cough drops to suppress the cough but don’t go to the doctor for antibiotics to deal with the bronchitis. The bronchitis turns into pneumonia and then you land in the hospital, which will cost you much more. Hmm, perhaps you should have gone to the doctor and taken care of the source of the cough first? When only the symptom is addressed, the problem keeps returning.

Having a relative with mental illness myself, I empathize not only with the patients, but also with their families. It is a strain, especially when you don’t live close by.

I know there are many people doing good deeds to help the suffering people, but we rarely hear about them. A simple act of kindness can do wonders.

God bless you, Mr. Bedell.

Linda Carlson Woodside

Q’boro Bridge toll solution Dear Editor: It has been noted that someone driving from Queens on the Queensboro Bridge to points in Manhattan north of 60th Street can avoid the congestion-pricing toll by using the bridge’s upper roadway. However, it is not possible to avoid the $9 toll for the return trip, even if someone is in the congestion zone for just 10 seconds.

A solution would be to put cameras at the Queensbound entrances. Then if someone driving south past 60th Street is captured by a standard congestion camera and that person immediately goes onto the Queensbound bridge entrance, where he or she is captured by the Queensbound camera, an algorithm could nullify the congestion toll.

I realize that a law passed five years ago established the congestion relief zone as Manhattan south of and including 60th Street. Hey, Queens legislators, how about doing something meaningful for your constituents and change the law to permit this algorithm?

David Soukup Sunnyside

The public hypocrite

not have to worry about his own safety because he and his family live on the Fort Hamilton Army Base in Brooklyn, even though neither her nor his wife is a member of the military.

As public advocate, Williams receives 24/7 protection from the NYPD, an organization that he tried to defund (New York magazine, Jan. 4, 2024). If there were an Olympics event for hypocrisy, he would win a gold medal.

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

Celebrate The

CHINESE LUNAR NEW YEAR

Don’t block hydrants Dear Editor: I am very concerned about cars being allowed to park at fire hydrants across the city and nothing being done about it.

Where is the fire commissioner? I have filled out many forms on 311 to the fire commissioner and to Mayor Adams to ask if something can be done about cars being allowed to park in front of working fire hydrants.

This is a very dangerous situation, and I would like to see the Fire Department be allowed to paint “No parking” in the street in front of hydrants and mark the 15 feet on either side of them. I believe that people know not to park in front of the hydrant, but are they aware of the 15-foot rule?

I heard from one deputy commissioner and that person told me that it is not the department’s responsibility to do anything about cars being parked, but it is my local precinct and the city Department of Transportation. I replied that I do not think that police or DOT agents have any idea where hydrants are located because DOT agents walk the streets, not sidewalks, and the police drive in cars and if a car is parked in front of a hydrant, they cannot see it.

I would like to have something written in the street, where hydrants are, to warn people not to park and save a life. And maybe you can find out where the fire commissioner is. I cannot seem to find him.

Kathleen Schatz Rego Park

‘No, Canada’ Dear Editor: If President Trump can make Canada the 51st state, they won’t have to play two national anthems anymore at athletic events. Watching the Islanders at UBS play Ottawa, I thought of how much I would miss hearing “O Canada” at games vs. Canadian opponents.

Ray Hackinson Ozone Park

Bad man, bad insurers Dear Editor: And so it begins: the United States of America being run by a convicted felon who wants “his” generals to be more like those of Hitler. A criminal who wants his appointees to be loyal to him and not the Constitution.

Then again, it’s not that far a stretch. After all, the Republican Party gave up being loyal to our country a long time ago. Republicans threw their dignity, loyalty, decency and honor in the trash, all to ensure that President continued on next page

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Dear Editor: Re Thomas and Constance Dowd’s Jan. 16 letter, “Action, not an advocate”: I appreciate the writers’ support of my position on the registration of e-bikes and scooters, and I share their view of NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams. His office is a waste of money and a stepping-stone for higher positions. Williams ran for NYS governor in the 2022 Democratic primary and lost to Kathy Hochul by a wide margin. He is likely to run for NYC Mayor if Eric Adams resigns or is removed from office (City and State, Sept. 30, 2024).

Williams sacrifices public safety for political correctness. He co-sponsored the How Many Stops Act, which requires cops to file reports on nearly every interaction they have with civilians, reducing their time to protect us. He does

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Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

LETTERS TO THE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 12

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Tisch outlines new police chase policy

High-speed pursuits only warranted in ‘the most serious and violent crimes’

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, in her latest reform to the agency since her appointment last November, last week announced the department is changing its vehicle pursuit policy in an effor t to strengthen street safety while trying to ensure officers can continue to apprehend dangerous suspects.

The updated policy sets clear standards and guidelines about when officers can engage in vehicle pursuits, along with technological enhancements to improve recordkeeping and compliance. Uniformed members of the service were training on the new policy ahead of its Feb. 1 implementation date, the agency said.

Under the new rules, officer discretion to initiate a pursuit is limited to “only the most serious and violent crimes” the NYPD said, such as felonies and violent misdemeanors.

Chases are not allowed for traffic infract ion s , v iolat ion s or non-v iole nt misdemeanors.

Discretion will be guided by the location of a pursuit and whether it is in a residential community or near a school or playground.

Supervisors will be responsible for actively monitoring and managing the pursuit, including the speed, and requesting special-

mittee meeting last December, Servedio’s parents, Ary and Frank, said they want answers for their daughter’s death and changes to NYPD’s high-speed chase policy.

At its next regular meeting, CB 1 voted 23-11 to send a letter to the NYPD that outlined the joint agreement between its public safety and transportation subcommittees saying the NYPD needs to revise its chase policy, make said policy public and provide an open response to the letter.

The Chronicle reached out to the board via email to see if the new pursuit policy met its requests, but did not receive a response.

During a Jan. 16 appearance on WOR 710 Radio’s “Mendte in the Morning,” former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton told Larry Mendte he is supportive of Tisch’s new pursuit guidelines.

“That’s consistent with the policies of The NYPD last week announced that its pursuit policy will change on Feb. 1, allowing for police many other agencies around the country, reducing the risk of injury, particularly to PICKPIK.COM PHOTO chases for only the most serious and violent crimes. innocent individuals,” Bratton said. “So it’s ized units to assist if needed. identify improvements that need to be made, a trend that’s been underway for quite some Officers will not be the subject of criti- as well as mandated Police Academy train- time in the country, and New York is now cism or disciplinary action if they terminate ing and an annual report on the policy and catching up to that trend.”

He suggested drones may be used in the a chase because they do not believe it can be reporting procedure. continued safely, the agency said. There will “New York is one of the most densely future to mitigate the use of vehicular be monthly reviews of vehicle pursuits to populated cities in the world, and our offi- pursuits.

“With increasing technology capabilities, ensure the rules have been followed and to cers deserve clear guidance and smart protocols when determining whether to engage drones for example, there may not be a need in a vehicle pursuit on our streets,” Tisch for some of these chases because you just said in a statement. “The NYPD’s enforce- follow the car with a drone, see where they ment efforts must never put the public or the end up, where they get out,” Bratton sugpolice at undue risk, and pursuits for viola- gested. “And so I think it’s a very good politions and low-level crimes can be both cy. It will save lives, put officers’ lives less at risk in that pursuit, as well as the innoof Insurance Commissioners, U.S. insurers potentially dangerous and unnecessary.” made record profits of over $87 billion in Tisch said the advanced tools of modern- cent civilians that might be in the area.”

On X, Transportation Alternatives, an 2023 from their property and casualty busiday policing make it possible to apprehend ness. In 2024, they were on pace to shatter criminals more safely and effectively than advocacy group for safe, equitable streets and fewer cars in New that record again, making about $130 bilever before, making York City, said of the lion in net income in those sectors in the many pursuits new policy, “This is a first three quarters. unnecessary. huge victor y for Douglas Heller, director of insurance at “Now, our cops will hese key changes will everyone fighting for the Consumer Federation of America, said have clear, unambigumake both the police safe st reets — and it best: “We’ve been paying premiums over ous parameters for now we need to ensure the past several years to prepare insurance when to initiate, conand the public safer.” these end in policy companies for a catastrophe like this. tinue, and terminate and in practice.”

Whatever they say, they have the resources these pursuits,” Tisch — NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch Joe Giacalone, a to pay the claims.” said. “These key ret i red N Y PD serchanges will make Robert LaRosa Sr. both the police and the public safer and fur- geant from Queens, former commander of Whitestone ther improve the NYPD’s service to the the Bronx Cold Case Squad and professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, told city.”

Tokyo Rose and Putin In 2024, the NYPD conducted 2,278 the Chronicle the pursuit policy really is vehicle pursuits, the agency said, with 25 already in place.

Dear Editor: “It was up to the patrol supervisor to percent of those resulting in some combinaTokyo Rose was a woman spreading lies tion of a collision, property damage or phys- evaluate the necessity for a pursuit,” Giaand fear to the American soldiers on the batical harm. A fled car stop was the reason for calone said in an email. “Based on several tlefields of World War II. Today we have TV 67 percent of the pursuits. There is no data factors, the patrol supervisor [would] call it channels spewing propaganda trying to available for how many of those pursuits off if it was unwarranted. This has been in brainwash the American people to bring the patrol guide for at least 30 to 40 years so resulted in death. division to the United States. A big lie is the Amanda Servedio, a 36-year-old accoun- I guess it acts as a good reminder to the pubsame as a little white lie. They are both chiltant who moved to Astoria from Arkansas, lic and to the police what needs to be done dren of the “Father of all lies.” Change the died as a result of a police pursuit last Octo- during a pursuit.” channel: no more Tokyo Rose.

He said in deciding whether a chase ber in Long Island City. Police chased three I hear Vladimir Putin laughing. Do you burglary suspects in a truck, who struck would go on, the patrol supervisor would hear him laughing, too?

Servedio following around a mile-long evaluate the alleged crime, weather condiAlbert Ross tions, time of day, vehicle condition and pursuit.

Glendale Q During a Community Board 1 joint com- skill of the driver.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

LETTERS TO THE continued from previous page Trump would not run candidates against them. An attorney general who wants to investigate the honorable committee members who investigated the actual criminals who attacked the U.S. Capitol. An attorney general who, when asked if Trump could serve a third term, paused for a few seconds, finally said no, but qualified her response by saying, “unless we change the Constitution” And the inauguration had to be brought inside? Poor little Trump; a real man would’ve braved the weather.

Just watch Trump the grifter withhold federal relief funds to the victims of Los Angeles fires unless they bow down and show fealty to this disgrace of a human being. He’ll say the insurance companies are in business to make profits. Wrong!

They are there to help the people who’ve paid premiums for years!

According to the National Association

Write a Letter!

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“T

C M SQ page 13 Y K

VISIT OUR WEBSITE

PHOTO COURTESY SERENA LOIACONO

Just because you’re out of high school doesn’t mean you’re too old for prom!

C o u n c i l wo m a n Jo a n n A r iol a (R-Ozone Park) is partnering with Sovereign Realty of NY, Nick the Balloonatic and Tony Gap to host her third annual senior prom on Feb. 12 at the Oak Ridge, located at 1 Forest Pkwy. in Woodhaven.

From 12 to 3 p.m., senior citizens from District 32, which encompasses Woodhaven, Howard Beach, Ozone Park and Glendale, are welcome to grab their dancing shoes and their closest friends and family for an afternoon filled with food, music and plenty of fun.

Nick the Balloonatic, a balloon artist with over 30 years of experience, will entertain with his balloon art, while Tony Gap will provide the tunes to keep everyone grooving.

Refreshments will be served, including a pasta lunch, beverages and dessert.

Attendance is free, but registration is required to ensure space for everyone. Call Ariola’s office at (718) 7381083 to reserve your spot for what she said is one of her most popular events Q of the year.

— Kristen Guglielmo

Kindness and culture with Cucina Palermo Students of PS 207 Rockwood Park in Howard Beach were in for a treat last week, as the neighborhood’s own Rita Prisco visited for an assembly.

Prisco, in black at center left, is known as Cucina Palermo online. She has amassed nearly 500,000 followers on TikTok and 80,000 on Instagram by sharing her homestyle, authentic Sicilian recipes with her fans.

Prisco frequently mentions small businesses in and around Howard Beach in her posts.

An author of two cookbooks, Prisco recently delved into the children’s genre with her newest, titled “Piccola Francesca.” The book focuses on balancing cultural pride with the desire to belong, according to its Amazon listing.

Prisco’s videos and books can be found at linktr.ee/cucinapalermorita.

Serena Loiacono, an art teacher at PS 207, told the Chronicle via email that Prisco read her book aloud to the school’s third-grade

Page 13 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

Senior prom in Woodhaven

students, sharing her words of kindness and acceptance.

“The assembly was a success, and the students heard the words, ‘share what’s special, share what’s you, and friends will find their way to you,’” Loiacono said. “In a world for our children where negativity is commonly seen and heard, we feel so grateful for sharing the talents of a neighborhood author who truly understands the power of kindness and pride in our uniqueness!”

— Kristen Guglielmo

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 14

C M SQ page 14 Y K

Trump’s immigration actions

Our Annual

BLUE BOOK:

continued from page 2 One especially controversial action taken by Trump on Monday was his move to revoke birthright citizenship, which is enshrined in the Constitution. The 14th Amendment states that “all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.”

NPR reported Monday that Trump intends to interpret the phrase “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” such that children born in the United States to undocumented parents would not automatically receive citizenship status.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards condemned the move that day.

“It’s not surprising that one of this president’s first acts in office will be a sickening, xenophobic attack on the citizenship of millions of Americans of all ages, but under no circumstance will our borough of more than 1 million immigrants sit idly by while our Constitutional rights are trampled,” Richards said. “For every push this new administration makes over the next four years to dehumanize and demoralize our neighbors, we will defend our values like our lives depend on it. Because they do.”

Immigrants’ rights advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union, on Monday sued the Trump administration over the action. Then, attorneys general

The Official 2025 Queens Directory publishing on

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from 22 states, including Letitia James of New York, took their own legal action seeking to invalidate the order and prevent its implementation.

“This fundamental right to birthright citizenship, rooted in the 14th Amendment and born from the ashes of slavery, is a cornerstone of our nation’s commitment to justice,” James said in a press release. “Our constitution is not open to reinterpretation by executive order or presidential decree.”

A spokesperson from Holden’s office said he looks forward to how things will develop and that he believes birthright citizenship is worth examining.

Meanwhile, the Laken Riley Act, named for the 22-year-old woman who was killed last year by an unauthorized immigrant from Venezuela, passed the Senate 64-35 Monday. It would require the DHS to detain undocumented immigrants charged with, arrested for or convicted of burglary, theft, larceny or shoplifting. It already had passed the House 264-159.

James last week wrote a letter urging senators to vote no, saying the law would violate due process and fair treatment.

The bill could become the first piece of legislation to hit Trump’s desk for a signature.

“Public safety should never be politicized — Democrats do so at their peril,” Holden said. “Laken Riley died because of sanctuary Q laws. May her memory not be in vain.”

QueensLink gets $400K grant continued from page 4 QueensLink has wide support among South and Southeast Queens elected officials.

According to a press release, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica), Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) and Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., Councilmembers Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) and Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), along with Sanders, Anderson and Brooks-Powers, all signed letters of support of Queens-

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Link’s application for the Reconnecting Communities grant.

“We are honored to receive this grant from the United States Department of Transportation, which brings us one step closer to making the QueensLink vision a reality.” said Rick Horan, the executive director of QueensLink, in a statement.

“With this grant funding, we’ll be able to show citizens and decision-makers just how impactful the project will be. We firmly believe that QueensLink’s emphasis on transit equity, climate change mitigation, and small businesses will benefit everyone.” Q

C M SQ page 15 Y K

The writer, historian and longtime transportation advocate was 71

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

Mass transit lost one of its biggest champions last week.

Larry Penner, a well-known former federal transportation official, advocate, historian and writer, died at 71 last Thursday after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

Originally from Brooklyn, Penner moved to Great Neck, LI at a young age and lived there through the end of his life. He grew up just 200 feet away from the city line, he told the Chronicle in a 2016 interview, and said his whole life “really revolved around Queens.”

Though he was very politically engaged, volunteering for Jim Buckley’s 1970 Senate campaign and later running for City Council, State Assembly and Congress himself, Penner devoted his life to mass transit.

His bus as a teenager was the original New York City Transit Q12A, later renamed the Q79, which ran along Little Neck Parkway.

Wendy Penner, his wife of 27 years, said he never got his driver’s license — he firmly believed that people need transit to get around and could not depend solely on cars.

Penner served for 31 years in the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office, where he developed, reviewed, approved and oversaw billions of dollars in programs and

capital projects for agencies such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Long Island Rail Road.

He remained one of mass transit’s biggest fans after he retired, frequently penning letters to the editor about local issues involving transportation, city politics or a combination of the two.

With years of experience under his belt, Wendy Penner said, her husband felt he could really tell readers what was going on in the world of transit.

He had an affinity for the historical, transportation-related or otherwise. In an interview with the Chronicle from last November, he recalled the days in the ’60s when passengers could get bubble gum for a penny at subway stations.

Penner also found it important to preserve local businesses, with Mangel’s Delicatessen on Northern Boulevard and the hamburger chain Wetson’s included among his favorite spots that no longer exist.

He met his wife at the former Scobee Grill in Little Neck, and she said the initial purpose of the meeting was for her to “size him up” and introduce him to a friend.

“But I looked at him and I said, I’m keeping him. He’s mine,” Wendy Penner said.

The pair got married on the Skyline Princess, which sailed from Flushing Marina to the

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“Under his suit and his dress shirt, he had a tuxedo T-shirt,” Wendy Penner said. “And at some point before the meal began, he took the shirt off and he had this T-shirt under his jacket. And that became his trademark at weddings or ... bar mitzvahs or parties.

“In fact, I even had him buried in that,” she said. “Because that was him.”

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Wendy Penner, right, said her husband, Larry, was buried in the tuxedo T-shirt that he wore under his suit at their wedding as a testament COURTESY PHOTO to his sense of humor.

sau North Chapels in Great Neck on Sunday and he was interred at Montefiore Cemetery in Jenkintown, Pa. In addition to her husband’s great sense of humor, Wendy Penner spoke to his warmth.

Although he was never a cat person, he thought winning over her three cats would help him win her heart, too.

One of them “totally went and became his cat,” she said, adding that they ended up taking care of some of the neighborhood cats together.

Penner also liked to bring people together, his wife said. Every year or so, the pair would organize a dinner party at a restaurant with their friends, some of whom they have known for decades.

In his final letter to the Chronicle, published in the Jan. 2 edition (one he sent earlier ran Jan. 9), Penner said he was grateful that he and his fellow writers have the opportunity to express their views.

His gratitude was far from one-sided.

“I’ll miss Larry Penner. He was great to the Queens Chronicle, one of our most frequent letter writers, always with a good word for the paper, and for local papers in general, and was a great source of information about mass transit funding and history,” Peter Mastrosimone, the Chronicle’s editor-in-chief, said. “His loss Q leaves a void no one else can quite fill.”

Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

Larry Penner, retired transit official, dies

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 16

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Who’s running for mayor in 2025?

A look at the candidates and their most recent campaign finance records

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

There are many hats in the ring for the 2025 mayoral election, and while we’re still months away from the June 24 primaries, all eyes are on the numbers.

The city Campaign Finance Board on Jan. 15 updated its database with the latest financial standings of the 2025 mayoral hopefuls.

City Comptroller Brad Lander, a progressive Democrat and staunch critic of Mayor Adams, boasts the most in his war chest at $3,233,353, with $1,185,781 of that coming from private donors.

Lander’s priorities, as outlined on his campaign website, include stronger leadership, and an affordable, safe city. He’s been endorsed by United Auto Workers Region 9A. Adams, a moderate-conservative Democrat, trails Lander at $3,149,194. The embattled mayor was denied matching funds by the Campaign Finance Board twice.

During his recent State of the City speech, Adams promised to make New York more affordable for families. He recently celebrated a victory when the City Council passed a modified version of his City of Yes for Housing Opportunity zoning proposal, which is estimated by the city to enable the creation of 80,000 homes over the next 15 years.

Multiple reports claim that Adams may opt to run on a different party line. In a recent Tucker Carlson interview, Adams said the Democrats “left” him and the working class.

Scott Stringer, the former city comptroller, officially announced his candidacy for mayor on Jan. 16 after establishing an exploratory committee last year. He has a balance of $2,377,628, with $788,543 coming from private funds.

Democratic Socialist Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) has raised $641,816 for his mayoral campaign, and has $415,555 remaining.

The first South Asian man to serve in the NYS Assembly, Mamdani’s mayoral campaign is running on freezing rent, building housing for working families, fare-free buses and free childcare for all. His endorsements include the Democratic Socialists of America, UAW Region 9A and Jewish Voice for Peace Action.

Another one of Queens’ own mayoral hopefuls, progressive state Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) raised $162,231 in private funds, but after spending, has $31,094 in her Mayor Adams, above, faces stiff competition in account. Ramos has been endorsed by UAW the upcoming 2025 mayoral primary, including Region 9A, Downtown Women for Change and from, at right, clockwise from top left, city International Brotherhood of Teamsters Comptroller Brad Lander, former city ComptrolLocals 804 and 808. ler Scott Stringer, Assemblyman Zohran MamdaOn her campaign website, Ramos ni and state Sen. Jessica Ramos. PHOTO BY MICHAEL advocates for affordable housing, a APPLETON / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE, ABOVE, AND FILE PHOTOS holistic approach to public safety, environmental justice, expanding Michael Blake, a moderate Democrat, forhousing access for new arrivals and mer Bronx assemblymember and White House universal childcare. aide to former President Obama, raised Progressive state Sen. Zellnor $146,084 in private funds and has $90,473 left My r ie ( D -Brook ly n) ga r ne red after spending. The founder and CEO of the $647,898 from private donors and has Kairos Democracy Project, Blake offers a plat$268,172 in his war chest. He’s focused on form focused on economic freedom and fair affordability, and his “Rebuild NYC” plan wages, universal childcare, affordable housing hopes to build and preserve one and expanding green living. million homes.

There aren’t just Democrats in Investor Whitney Tilson, a the race. rimary day is moderate Democrat with no forIndependent candidate James mal political experience, has an Walden, an antitrust and governJune 24. estimated balance of $267,701 ment law attorney who once after spending. He raised $424,968 in private served as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastcontributions. On his campaign website, Tilson ern District of New York, has netted $1,130,214 promises to tackle the affordability crisis, cut in donations and has $899,377 in his account, cr i me by 50 percent a nd end st reet with $500,000 in outstanding loans. homelessness.

Walden outlined his own housing plan on his

P

campaign website, arguing that the City of Yes has “serious flaws.” He wants to fight corruption, add affordable housing and ensure fair and just policing.

Other declared candidates include Gonzalo Duran, the vice chairman of the Bronx County Conservative Party; Republican Darren Aquino, the CEO of Advocates for Disabled Americans, Veterans, Police, Firemen & Families; and Independent James Manning, a pastor from North Carolina. There is no campaign finance information available for those candidates.

Multiple reports say former Democrat Gov. Andrew Cuomo is eyeing a political comeback with a mayoral run in 2025. Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels and the 2021 Republican mayoral candidate, said he intends on running but has not yet filed, according to the city Campaign Finance Board’s website. Q

SEQ sounds off on Trump inauguration

City Council Speaker Adams calls prez ‘Felon 47’ at MLK day event

by Naeisha Rose For the latest news visit qchron.com

Editor

“Felon 47.”

That is the new moniker City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) ascribed to President Trump at a Martin Luther King Jr. Day event in Jamaica on Monday.

At the celebration, held at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, Adams was one of many people from Southeast Queens who felt queasy about the inauguration of the new president, who has become a divisive figure in politics since first making a bid for the executive office back in 2015, on a day that celebrates a civil rights icon who fought for unity.

A 60-year Addisleigh Park resident shared Adams’ sentiments.

“I think it is a sad day that we had to celebrate [Trump] on one end — a felon that did so many things,” said Rose Watson, who

until next week or until tomorwished MLK Day and the inaurow. The fact that he was inauguration did not fall on the gurated on a day so special to same day. “We are just so sorry the entire country — I think it we had to split it up.” is a slap in the face.”

“To God be the glory, we are The Constitution mandates looking forward to 2025. We that presidential terms begin at are looking for great things to noon on Jan. 20. happen, in spite of the felon that Marie Slaughter, a correction was just elected.” officer, said it does not matter One man from South Jamaiwho is president, God is in ca said he spoke with his wife charge. about the coincidence, and “Sometimes you have to get thought there was a more appropriate day for Trump to be Gift Opuiyo of South Jamaica through the pharaoh to get to said President Trump’s inau- where God wants us to be,” inaugurated.

“I think it should have been guration should have been Slaughter said, making a Bible on Jan. 6,” said Gift Opuiyo, a on Jan. 6 instead of MLK reference.

PHOTO BY NAEISHA ROSE Fannie Hodges found the day city schoolteacher, referring to Day. bittersweet. the attack on Capitol Hill in “On one hand it is ironic that he is being 2021. “I’m not happy about it. Let’s say it happens every Monday — it could have waited [inaugurated] on MLK Day,” said Hodges,

who came to the MLK event with a cousin from Eastern Queens, “but at the same time, it is a reminder that we have a lot of work to do.

We have to move forward together ... Sometimes, when we are under pressure, we unite and organize. I feel like we have been a little relaxed [as a Black community].”

Adams, the speaker, also slammed Mayor Adams for attending Trump’s swearing-in instead of MLK events here in the city.

At his inauguration, Trump said his presidency will make King’s “dream come true.”

“Together we will strive to make his dream a reality,” said the president as he addressed Black people who voted for him.

King’s son, Martin Luther King III, spoke with CBS News and said it is time for people to let go of political disagreements and to move the nation forward.

“The question is how do we navigate in Q civility?” said King.

C M SQ page 17 Y K

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Celebrating Catholic Schools Week Annual event runs Jan. 26-Feb. 1

Since 1974, National Catholic Schools Week has been the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January and runs all week, which in 2025 is Jan. 26 to Feb. 1.

T he theme for Nat ional Catholic Schools Week 2025 is “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to the church, communities and the nation.

Daily themes and celebrations are observed as follows: Sunday: celebrating the parish Catholic schools benefit all year long from the religious guidance, prayers and support parishes provide. Many parishes join in the National Catholic Schools Week celebration by devoting a Mass to Catholic education. Schools start the week by inviting parishioners and commu nit y members to par ish- centered events and school open houses that feature their outstanding academic pro-

grams, religious education and service opportunities.

Monday: celebrating the community A central aspect of Catholic education is learning the importance of service to others. When students take part in service activities – both local and beyond – they demonstrate the values and faith they gain through their Catholic education and learn how to make the world a better place. When they observe how others serve the community, they gain an appreciation for how they can continue to serve others their entire lives.

Tuesday: celebrating students Schools celebrate st udents du r ing National Catholic Schools Week by planning enjoyable and meaningful activities for them and recognizing their accomplishments. They encourage students to reflect on the benefits of Catholic education and how the grounding in faith, knowledge and service it provides will help them throughout their lives.

Wednesday: celebrating the nation On National Appreciation Day for Catholic schools, students, families, edu-

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cators and other Catholic school supporters communicate the value of Catholic education to government leaders. They share information with leaders on the significant contributions Catholic schools make to the nation and their role in preparing students to be good citizens. They pray for the nation and recognize all those who serve.

Thursday: celebrating vocations By focusing on faith, knowledge and service, Catholic schools prepare children to use their God-given talents to the fullest later in life. National Catholic Schools Week offers an opportunity for students to explore the many life paths that enable them to use their talents well in the service of God and others.

Friday: celebrating faculty, staff and volunteers Teachers are the backbone of Catholic schools. On this day, schools honor teachers, as well as administrators and staff who support teachers in their important work, and thank the parents, grandparents, alumni, parishioners and school board members who provide volunteer service.

Saturday: celebrating families Parents, guardians and other family members play a vital role in Catholic education. Not only do they volunteer at the school, they instill values and expectations for academic excellence in their children at home. We acknowledge the role of families in Catholic education and celebrate their contributions to the success of our schools on the last day of National Catholic Schools Week, and all Q year long.

— courtesy National Catholic Educational Association

C M SQ page 19 Y K Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

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Full-day Kindergarten, Pre-K 3 and 4-year-old full-day and half-day programs, focused instruc onal schedule of 8:10 a.m. -3 p.m. with 7 a.m. arrival and a erschool program un l 6 p.m., TACHS Prepara on, Algebra 1 Regents Par cipa on, PK-8 Spanish program, iPad and SMARTBoard™ technology, fully equipped STEM lab, digital tools, coding and engineering design applica ons.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 20

C M SQ page 20 Y K

Values and teachings of a Catholic education The Catholic educational program is based on religious beliefs and values, which enable students to grow in their understanding of themselves, their relationship with God and their relationship with others.

Catholic high schools promote the education of young people to their full potential; their teachers respect and encourage real learning experiences. Students acquire knowledge and develop the skills necessary for success in higher educational pursuits and a wide range of careers.

They also offer a community environment in which students can discuss and live out the values upon which their education is based.

They are encouraged to contribute to society and to assume leadership roles in shaping public attitudes and programs.

In Catholic high schools, young people learn to question, to establish confidence in their own good choices in life and to experience the sense of accomplishment that stems from individual achievement and responsibility.

Catholic high schools: • build character; • foster community service; • encourage involvement;

• develop real-world skills; • shape leaders; • reward achievement; • reinforce values; • allow for spiritual growth; • embrace differences; • raise standards; • empower each student; and • celebrate school spirit.

The Diocese of Brooklyn offers a high school fair in the fall on one night in Queens and another night in Brooklyn where students, faculty and administrators from the high schools are available to answer questions and distribute materials.

Each high school also offers open houses and tours so that parents and prospective students can meet with current students, faculty and administrators and learn about the academics and activities the schools offer.

Additionally, many schools usually offer “Buddy Days” in which prospective students can spend a day in the school attending classes with a student who is currently enrolled.

All of the high schools also have websites that highlight their specific admissions poliQ cies and dates for open houses.

— dioceseof brooklyn.org/schools / secondary-education

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C M SQ page 21 Y K

Citizens Budget Commission and city comptroller think budget is lackluster

by Naeisha Rose

said the mayor’s spending plan is a lackluster proposal and fails to address the city’s In harmony with his State of the City deeper budget challenges head on.

“The Mayor’s proposed budget for FY26 address last Thursday, Mayor Adams’ $114.5 billion preliminary budget plan is still reflects $3 billion in structurally underfocused on helping families and increasing budgeted costs, continuing the budget fica f ford abi l it y, but it is not w it hout tion that my office and other fiscal watchdogs have repeatedly called out,” Lander controversy.

His plan for fiscal year 2026 is about $2.1 said in a statement. “Despite a 5.6 percent billion more than what was adopted last increase in tax revenues, it adds nothing to June for 2025. It is focused on protecting reserves.”

The preliminary budget plan is balanced, critical programs and funding mandated costs while supporting initiatives the mayor said the Mayor’s Office. A $5.5 billion budsaid keep New Yorkers safe, make the city get gap was closed with a combination of more affordable, invest in education, savings and new revenue. That includes improve quality of life and promote eco- making a $2.3 billion prepayment from fiscal year 2025 to 2026. The city reduced pronomic development.

“We are making major investments in jected out-year deficits below their Novemaffordable housing, addressing the severe ber 2024 financial plan levels to $4.2 billion mental health crises, keeping New Yorkers in fiscal year 2027, $5.4 billion in 2028 and safe, providing our children with a world- $5.1 billion in 2029.

The budget also includes $1.2 billion in class education and our families with affordable child care, developing major general reserve funds and $7.3 billion more infrastructure projects and parks, investing in other reserves.

In Adams’ plan for fiscal year 2026, in cultural institutions, and so much more,” Adams said in a statement. “Our adminis- which begins July 1 of this year, almost $1.2 tration is working hard every day to deliver billion would go toward what he called critical prog rams: the for work i ng- cla ss shelter re-estimate New Yorker s a nd ($554 million); rental make New York City e is neglecting to scale assistance ($325 milthe best place to raise l ion) ; cit y public a family.” up the city’s very small school’s nurses ($129 The Citizens Budmillion); and supget Commission and ‘housing first’ pilot.” por tive housi ng c i t y C o m p t r ol l e r ($64.2 million).

Brad Lander, howev— City Comptroller Brad Lander More than $500 er, believe the plan is m illion wou ld go underbudgeted and toward state-and-federally mandated profalls short of meeting the city’s fiscal needs.

“Mayor Eric Adams leveraged strong rev- grams, such as the MTA ($241 million); enues and lower-than-budgeted migrant reimbursements costs for foster and adopcosts to pay for deliberately underbudgeted tive parents, along with kinship guardians expenses this year and close the fiscal year ($138.8 million); charter schools ($87 mil2026 budget gap on paper,” said Andrew lion); and early intervention ($55.1 million), Rein, CBC’s president, in a statement on a federal program that provides support and Jan. 16, the day the preliminary budget was services for infants and toddlers with develreleased. “However, next year’s spending opmental delays and disabilities.

The mayor is committing about $187.1 plan simply does not reflect reality — it is short nearly $4.0 billion needed to fund million toward safety in efforts to get the homeless out of subway stations; secure existing services.”

Lander, who is running to unseat Adams, clinical units within jails; increase swimEditor

“H

It’s a tale of two commissions.

The City Council on Tuesday announced the appointments to its Charter Revision Commission, known as the NYC Commission to Strengthen Local Democracy. Cochaired by District Council 37 Executive Director Henry Garrido and New York Urban League President & CEO Arva Rice, the panel includes Bishop Calvin Rice, senior pastor of the New Jerusalem Worship Center in Jamaica, and Allan Swisher, general counsel and senior policy advisor for the Queens borough president, among its 17 members.

The commission is charged with reviewing the City Charter and engaging the public in a process that will result in proposals to improve city government. “It will not be considering any proposals that weaken local democracy or New Yorkers’ rights,” the Council said in its announcement.

That statement reflects criticism of the rival New York City Charter Revision Commission, created by Mayor Adams, which is holding public input sessions now.

The Council announcement did not say Q when its commission will do so.

— Peter C. Mastrosimone

ming lessons; enhance city Department of Correction recruiting efforts; improve intersection safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists; bolster security and safety staff at DOC facilities; and expand bridge and tunnel repair capacity at the city Department of Transportation.

About $77.1 million would be allocated toward cutting taxes for low-income people; an anti-harassment tenant protection program; funding the Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement Home Support Unit; expanding the Fatherhood Initiative; supporting new technology and tools to improve efficiency of the PEU Benefits Screening initiative; and the mayor’s “moonshot goal” of achieving 30,000 pre-apprenticeships for lowincome participants by 2030.

Mets Mgr. Jeff Torborg dies Jeff Torborg, an ex-major league catcher who managed the New York Mets in 1992 and 1993, died Jan. 19. He was 83.

His cause of death was not released.

A light-hitting backup in his career, Torborg played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and California Angels from 1964 to 1973.

Torborg, who won American League Manager of the Year with the Chicago White Sox in 1990, joined the Mets in 1992, replacing Bud Harrelson, who was fired in the closing days of the 1991 season.

He led the Mets to a fifth-place finish and a 72-90 record. He was replaced by Dallas Green after a 13-25 start in 1993.

He also managed the Cleveland Indians, Montreal Expos and Florida Marlins. He became a popular baseball broadcaster.

Torborg played for pennant-winning Dodgers teams in 1964 and 1966, but did not play in either World Series. He had the distinction of catching three no-hitters, including Sandy Koufax’s perfect game in 1965 and, in 1973, the first of Q Nolan Ryan’s record seven.

— Michael Gannon

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Pair of charter review panels

Mayor Adams has proposed a preliminary budget of $114.5 billion for fiscal year 2026. One mayoral competitor, city Comptroller Brad LandPHOTO COURTESY NYC MAYOR er, says it falls short.

Education programs such as Summer Rising, Learning to Work, the Pathways program, Fair Future, College Choice, Assertive Community Engagement & Success and opening more schoolyards and playgrounds could cost $184.27 million.

Quality-of-life initiatives such as more park cleanings, staff and programming for the Parks Department, along with 12 more people to tackle the city’s rat problem, could cost $21.12 million.

Economic development funding would be $11.65 million.

The mayor would also like to invest $170 billion over the next decade to improve infrastructure, including $612 million for repairs on the ED Koch Queensboro Bridge lower roadway and $3.18 billion for repairs to the Newtown Creek combined Sewer Overflow Storage Tunnel.

T h at la st it e m h a s s u p p or t f rom environmentalists.

“Riverkeeper strongly suppor ts the Adams administration’s proposed $190 Million in FY26 for the Newtown Creek Combined Sewer Overflow Storage Tunnel and applauds the administration for its commitment to ensuring this critical project comes to fruition,” Tracey Brown, president of Hudson Riverkeeper, said in a statement.

“The storage tunnel will improve water quality by drastically reducing raw sewage and polluted stormwater contamination into Newtown Creek, as required by the Clean Water Act and Superfund law.”

Lander, however, found the mayor’s plan gimmicky.

“Ea rlier t h is week, Mayor Ad a ms announced $650 million in new mental health initiatives, but failed to mention that this funding is stretched over five years — the investment for fiscal year 2026 is only $137 million, so it’s less than meets the eye.

And he is neglecting to scale up this city’s very small ‘housing first’ pilot (aka Street to Housing), preferring to stick with the ‘housing last’ models that leave people with serious mental illness falling through the cracks.”

Lander also wants more funding for 3K Q for All and CUNY.

Page 21 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

Adams touts more than $114B ’26 plan

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 22

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Lions convention in Newtown Creek partial cleanup set Middle Village, Feb. 8

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency last Friday finalized a plan to begin cleaning up some of the worst contamination in Newtown Creek’s East Branch.

The action on the waterway, which is within the Newtown Creek Superfund site declared in 2010, is an interim part of a larger effort. Now that a plan has been selected, an EPA spokesman said, the agency will talk to parties responsible for the cleanup to reach a legal agreement and begin the engineering design work.

The full cleanup’s schedule will be developed at or near completion of the design work, and the spokesman said the process will likely take years to complete.

Once the planned cleanup concludes, the agency could call for further action to address any remaining contamination in the East Branch. However, the EPA said in a press release that it expects consistency between the selected cleanup plan and the final remedy eventually determined for the rest of the creek.

The EPA said the plan calls for dredg-

SPORTS

ing and capping, or removing contaminated sediment to a depth that allows protective caps to be placed over the dredged areas without reducing water depths.

The depth is slated to be at least 3 feet, the agency said, though deeper dredging will be completed in some areas. Before the plan’s design is completed, a comprehensive investigation will determine which ones, among other project details.

The plan also will involve stabilizing contaminated sediment when necessary, keeping harmful substances in one place by mixing in materials such as cement.

While the EPA and the state determine how to address upland contamination sou rces, sealed bul k heads will be installed as barriers to ensure that contaminated water does not seep from the shoreline to the creek.

The EPA said all dredged materials will be taken to facilities licensed to receive the waste or approved locations.

“This plan will help reduce risks in the East Branch Portion of Newtown Creek and is good news for the communities around Newtown Creek,” EPA Regional Q Administrator Lisa Garcia said.

BEAT

Nets honor Vince Carter

by Lloyd Carroll

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Chronicle Contributor

There have not been too many joyous days at Barclays Center this season. The Nets are in rebuild/tank mode, which means wins are few.

This Saturday evening, however, the mood should be brighter as the club will honor one of the greatest players in its history, Vince Carter, by retiring his No. 15. It will now hang from the Barclays Center rafters.

Carter played an incredible 22 seasons in the NBA and did not retire until he was 43. He was a seven-time All-Star. Despite these lofty credentials, he remains overlooked when lists of NBA greats are compiled. People understandably obsess over championship rings and unfortunately, Carter never won a title. When he played for the Nets they called New Jersey’s Meadowlands Arena home. There is no argument that more attention would have been paid had “Vinsanity” (Yes, that term preceded Jeremy Lin’s “Linsanity”) been in Brooklyn.

The Nets have wisely brought Carter back into their fold in recent years, having him as a color analyst on their YES Network telecasts when Sarah Kustok is away. He has a nice rapport with Nets play-by-play voice and Forest Hills High School alum Ian Eagle.

The Nets recently added small forward and Princeton University alum Tosan Evbuomwan to their roster. He becomes their first Princeton

player since Brian Taylor played for them during their ABA Long Island heyday.

I was saddened to learn of the passing of former Mets and Madison Square Garden official photographer George Kalinsky last week at the age of 88. His photographs include Willis Reed coming out of the runway for the deciding Game 7 of the 1970 NBA championship series against the Los Angeles Lakers despite a serious knee injury, and the 1971 heavyweight title bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier.

He was also famous for his photos of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley and the Rolling Stones, as well as the artists who played at the Concert for Bangladesh on Aug. 1, 1971. That remains the most famous rock concert in MSG history.

Sinatra and Ali were not only subjects of Kalinsky’s work, but were also longtime friends. His Rolodex of boldfaced names from all walks of life could have gotten him into the Guinness Book of World Records.

Despite all the well-known folks in George’s orbit, he never tried to big-league anyone. He was always gracious to me as he frequently told me how much he enjoyed reading my columns.

George embodied the “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice” philosophy of New York television icon Joe Franklin.

Q You will be missed, George.

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

Learn about volunteer opportunities; gain skills in finance, administration

by Naeisha Rose Editor

The president of Lions International, a global philanthropic organization, is making his way from Brazil to Middle Village for the 68th annual Mid-Winter Convention for the 20-K1 Brooklyn & Queens subsidiary, on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Lions President Fabrício Oliveira will be the guest speaker at the event, held at Christ the King High School, located at 68-02 Metropolitan Ave. Romeo Hitlall, the subsidiary’s governor, who also is running for City Council District 28, is hosting the event, said Ngozeka Onwualu, secretary and president of the Rosedale Lions Club.

To register for the convention, visit midwinterconvention.org.

“All the Lions from Brooklyn and Queens from district 20-K1 converge together,” said Onwualu about the affair. “Fabrício Oliveira is going to give an impeccable speech. His slogan this year is: Make Your Mark.”

At the event, which has a general admission of $100 and comes with a continental breakfast and catered lunch, people will learn about the volunteer work the Lions do, vendors will have the opportunity to promote their products and there will be informational sessions where people may learn about finance, advertising, marketing and administration, skills they can use while volunteering at the organization or in their everyday lives, said Onwualu.

“It’s an opportunity for different vendors to come out and introduce their businesses to the Lions community, and they will be afforded the opportunity to advertise their business in our newsletter,” said the Rosedale Lions Club president.

The organization has several causes it supports.

“Childhood cancer, diabetes, hunger,

youth, disaster r el i ef , v i s io n , humanitarian efforts and more,” said O nw u alu about the core issues the volunteers work on. “ S o m e p e o pl e might do clothing drives. Every club is different and t h e y m a y d o Lions International Presisomething unique dent Fabrício Oliveira will for the communi- deliver a keynote speech t y t h a t t h e y at the Brooklyn & Queens Mid-Winter Lions Convenserve.”

PHOTO H e r b r a n c h tion.

COURTESY ROSEDALE LIONS primarily focuses on hunger eradication, but this year the group has also started an eyeglasses campaign and has collected 17,000 brand-new frames as of Jan. 8. The campaign ends on May 28, and those interested in donating may email rosedalelionsfoundatinc@gmail.com.

“We are sending them to people in countries who need the frames,” said Onwualu, who is also the president and executive director of the Rosedale Lions Club Foundation.

“They will also be distributed throughout the U.S.” The Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf in New Jersey will distribute the eyewear inter nationally for the club, said Onwualu.

Some members from the Rosedale Lions Club will also be doing a skit about a day in the life of a volunteer in the organization, said Onwualu.

Onwualu will also be in a choir singing in remembrance of Yvonne Lewis and Millicent May Miller, members who passed at the end Q of 2023 and 2024, respectively.

Wagner gets call from the Hall “Hey, Mets fans — just want to thank you for all your support and all that you’ve done for me over my four years in New York. Couldn’t do this without you.”

After a decade of being the bridesmaid, Billy Wagner, the New York Mets closer from 2006 through the beginning of 2009, expressed his gratitude on the club’s X page Tuesday night after being voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Wagner, in his 10th and final year of eligibility, was named on 82.5 percent of the ballots; 75 percent is required.

He will be inducted this summer with

two ex-Yankees, outfielder Ichiro Suzuki and pitcher CC Sabathia, outfielder Dave Parker and slugger Richie Allen.

Wagner, who came to the majors with the Houston Astros in 1995, joined the Mets from the Philadelphia Phillies as a free agent. His 422 career saves presently rank eighth on the all-time list. His 101 saves in Flushing place him sixth in Mets history. He appeared in two games for the Mets in 2009 before being traded to the Boston Red Sox. He finished his career Q with the Atlanta Braves in 2010.

— Michael Gannon

C M SQ page 23 Y K

January 23, 2025

Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

A R T S , C U LT U R E & L I V I N G

Twin peeks

Mrs. gallery hosts two exhibits, in two spaces

by Marlee Wollman b

continued on page 25

For the latest news visit qchron.com

SSituated in the secluded, unassuming neighborhood of Maspeth, the Mrs. galle continues its tradition of presenting enchanting contemporary art with two lery new exhibitions. Last Friday evening, the pair of shows commenced with convivial ope opening events, one around the corner from the other; the adventurous sculptural and painted works of Sachiko Akiyama, Susan Klassen Sullivan, and Robert an Zehnder Ze in the main gallery, and the captivating yet meditative tableus of Gail Spaien Sp in the satellite space.

The exhibits, “Observation and Imagination” and “Tree At My Window,” both b free, showcase distinct but complementary artistic approaches. While Spaien’s S paintings examine the serenity of calming interiors and the tranquil poetry p of observed spaces, Akiyama, Sullivan and Zehnder bring the wild beauty t of nature to life, inviting viewers to reflect on transformation, interconnectedness e and renewal.

The group exhibit, “Tree At My Window,” delves into the parallels between the human experience and natural forms, much like the themes explored in Robert Frost’s poem, where nature mirrors the emotions and reflections of the individual. Sculpture and painting are combined to examine themes of metamorphosis, enigma and rebirth.

Sachiko Akiyama’s carved wooden sculptures have a delicate yet bold character. Her creations, composed of natural elements, appear to stride the boundary between the material and spiritual. Akiyama infuses mythological motifs and archetypes into her work to reflect on anthropologic and animalistic themes, inspiring introspection within the viewer’s consciousness.

She said she has been focused on combining carved wood forms with other ottth o her materials and d loves how h that expands the works’ expressive and metaphorical possibilities.

Susan sculptures study structural meaning, focusing on the hidden forms and systems Susaan Klassen Klaassen Sullivan’s ceramic Kl c that sustain both trees and humans. “Generally what informs my work is that I believe the natural world holds the

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 24

C M SQ page 24 Y K

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

King Crossword Puzzle Suzy Parker first got attention in East Elmhurst

ACROSS

1 Pickle holders 5 Klutz 8 Pre-weekend yell 12 Layered cookie 13 School org.

14 Nozzle site 15 Complaint 16 Mahal preceder 17 Memory method 18 Jungle trek 20 Apple product 22 “Lunch break is over!”

26 Sports bar fixture 29 “Mangia!”

30 Avril follower 31 Marsh plant 32 “Blue Bloods” airer 33 Nov. honorees 34 401(k) alternative 35 Notable time 36 Trig terms 37 Consecutive 40 Puerto -41 Small apes 45 Help a hood 47 Fanatic 49 Aswan’s river 50 Roster 51 Compass dir.

52 Radiate 53 -- -bitty 54 Carried out 55 Lushes

DOWN

For the latest news visit qchron.com

1 Want-ad listings 2 Region

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

3 Coral formation 4 Sleeper 5 Eye-related 6 One-time link 7 Tex-Mex wraps 8 Toss 9 Favorable sign 10 Follower (Suff.)

11 Service charge 19 Squealer

21 Soup cooker 23 Skewered entree 24 Assess 25 Smooch 26 Chicago paper, briefly 27 Actress Farmiga 28 “American Idol” Ryan 32 Sang softly 33 Minnesota footballers 35 Catchall abbr.

36 Learning center 38 Poker pot 39 Played a part 42 Actor O’Shea 43 Conspiracy 44 Stitches 45 Boxing legend 46 Morsel 48 Numerical prefix

Answers on next page

George Lofton Parker was born in Texas on May 27, 1895. He married Elizabeth Mae Kirkpatrick, also from Texas, in 1916. They moved to Brooklyn and he started a publishing and printing business. Three daughters followed in succession, Dorian in 1917, Florian in 1918 and Georgiabell in 1921. Parker’s success enabled the family to purchase a home in Queens at 32-55 84 St. in East Elmhurst. The childhood home of supermodel Suzy Parker at 32-55 84 The family was taken by St. in East Elmhurst, as it looked in the 1930s when she INSET ABC TELEVISON PHOTO VIA WIKIPEDIA surprise when they had anoth- lived there. er girl on Oct. 25 1932. She the spelling of her name to Suzy, and she was named Cecilia Ann Renee Parker.

Called Susie by her father, who disliked entered the movies and TV, as well.

Parker was in a car driven by her father her given name, she grew to 5-foot-10. Her sister Dorian, a model, convinced the Ford when they were hit by a train in 1958. He was killed and she broke both her arms. She Modeling Agency to sign her little sister.

By 1956, Parker had become the first was married three times and had four chilmodel to earn $200 an hour, making dren. Stricken with ulcers and later diabeQ $100,000 a year. A photographer changed tes, she died on May 3, 2003, at age 70.

C M SQ page 25 Y K

by Michael Gannon editor

Lunar New Year, based on the Chinese Zodiac calendar, will usher in the Year of the Snake on Jan. 29, and numerous groups and organizations throughout Queens are participating in the celebration.

The lunar calendar is based on a 12-year cycle, with a different animal symbolizing each year.

Among those celebrating in the borough, Flushing Town Hall is hosting an exhibit titled “Red Gate: Pauline Benton & Chinese Shadow Theatre in America” through Feb. 25. The exhibit features puppets and artifacts — some more than a century old — and some demonstrations from the Long Island City-based group Chinese Theatre Works. Flushing Town Hall is located at 137-35 Northern Blvd.

The Queens Pubic Library system has more than a dozen scheduled in-person and virtual events and activities at various sites.

Those and a list of more than 30 related books for children, teens and adults can be found at tinyurl.com/x82ekard.

State Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) and REACH will host a Lunar New Year celebration from 3 to 5 p.m. on Jan. 26 at Flushing High School at 35-01 Union St. More information is available via email to

Kuang Yu-Fong, left, co-founder of Chinese Theatre Works, and puppeteer and instructor Harrison Greene demonstrate puppetry techniques at the opening reception of the PHOTOS BY MICHAEL GANNON group’s exhibit at Flushing Town Hall. events@ johnliusenate/com, or by calling Liu’s office at (718) 765-6675.

The Shops at Skyview, a multi-level shopping mall in Flushing, will welcome the Year of the Snake with a live mural painting and K-pop party on Wednesday, Jan. 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. on Level 2 next to Spectrum. Students from Francis Lewis High School’s Art and Design program will assist.

There also will be a celebration of Chinese culture reminiscent of the glamorous

era of old Shanghai, on Saturday, Feb. 1.

Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required to attend. Guests interested in attending the mural painting and K-Pop party can register at bit.ly/4g0uuvI. Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is inviting people to celebrate from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 30, at Borough Hall. The evening will include cultural performances, food and special honors for members of Queens‘ AAIP community.

Borough Hall is located at 120-55 Queens Blvd. in Kew Gardens. Guests are asked to RSVP at queensbp.nyc.gov/rsvp.

The Flushing Chinese Business Association’s annual Lunar New Year Parade kicks off at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, in front of the 109th Precinct at the corner of Union Street and 39th Ave. The ceremony will begin with Lion and Dragon dances. The parade will be led by Mr. Met with the police banner and a marching band.

The celebration at the Queens Center mall, at 90-15 Queens Blvd. in Elmhurst, from 1 to 3 p.m. on Feb. 1, will include the Chinese Freemasons Lion Dancers, plus crafts with the Asian American Ar ts Alliance.

The Glow Cultural Center will have a parade at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 2 beginning at its offices at 133-29 41 Ave. and going to Flushing Town Hall. There will be a variety show, cultural fair and other festivities.

Information and tickets are available at glownyc.org/2025lunarnewyear.

The Bayside Village Business Improvement District will host its Celebration of East Asian Culture from 2 to 5 p.m. on Feb. 9 in the gym at Bayside United Methodist Church with live music and performances at 38-20 Bell Blvd. Information is available at Q instagram.com/baysidebid.

Page 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

Queens groups ring in the Year of the Snake

Dual exhibits examine nature in dueling ways

Crossword Answers

with abstract landscapes that explore the emotional and metaphysical dimensions of the natural world. He creates works that evoke cycles of growth and decay, and are less about physical places and more about the inner experience of transformation, allowing viewers to reflect on the ephemeral nature of life and the beauty of change.

In the adjacent gallery, Maine-based artist Gail Spaien’s first solo exhibition at Mrs. Gallery, Observation and Imagination, captures the subtle beauty of domiciliary spaces.

In a recent interview with Yale University, Spaien expressed, “There’s a relationship between nature and the interior that is always important to me.” This philosophy is clearly reflected in her work, particularly in her paintings of domestic interiors that seamlessly integrate views of the natural world outside, while maintaining a deliberate visual choreography.

Hilary Schaffner, the curator, who serendipitously crossed paths with Spaien in Miami said, “For Spaien, a painting is a site of connection. It is an opportunity for two worlds to intersect — the viewer’s internal world and the artist’s imagined world.

Observed and Imagined hopefully provides

“Only if there are angels in your head” by Sachiko Akiyama, left, and “Moon Box Tree”

by Susan Klassen Sullivan, foreground right, next to some of the mingling crowd at the Jan. 17 Mrs. exhibit opening. On the cover: “Summit” by Robert Zehnder and “Green PHOTOS BY MARLEE WOLLMAN Chairs with Lighthouse,” by Gail Spaien. the viewer with a respite from their daily lives and a place to connect to a serene and more contemplative space.”

With “Observation and Imagination” and “Tree At My Window,” Mrs. gallery reaffirms its reputation as a place where unexpected dialogues between art and environ-

ment come to life. Viewers are invited to set aside their habitual perspective and embark on a meditative, imaginative journey of contemplation with an appealing aesthetic.

Both exhibits run through March 8. Mrs. is located at 60-40 56 Ave., and the satellite Q around the corner at 60-19 56 Road.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

continued from page 23 answers to the mysteries of life, the hows and whys. And that if we listen carefully enough, as I try to do, we can know them.

Then as an artist I try to present what I’ve encountered during the periods of looking and listening.” Sullivan’s pieces have a quiet power, drawing viewers into a space where the interconnected biological and emotional systems that govern nature become tangible.

Zehnder offers a painterly counterpoint

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 26

C M SQ page 26 Y K

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Page 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 28

C M SQ page 28 Y K NOTICE OF SALE

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS. WILMINGTON SAVING FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF UPLAND MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST A, Plaintiff -against- TERRANCE MANN, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated November 12, 2024 and entered on November 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., in Courtroom # 25, Jamaica, NY on February 7, 2025 at 10:00 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 a point on the Easterly side of 158th Street, distant 46 feet Northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Easterly side of 158th Street with the Northerly side of 132nd Avenue; being a plot 100.30 feet by 45.84 feet by 87.45 feet by 44 feet. Block: 12273 Lot: 72 Said premises known as 130-21/130-23 158TH STREET A/K/A 13021/13023 158TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11434 Approximate amount of lien $510,796.02 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

Index Number 721436/2019.

LOIS M. VITTI, ESQ., Referee Kosterich & Skeete, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 707 Westchester Ave., Suite 302, White Plains, NY 10604

The UCC1 was filed on December 5, 2024 with the Secretary of State of the State of New York under the Filing No. # 202412050451709.

VALLELY LAW PLLC Attn: Erick R. Vallely, Esq. Attorneys for Secured Party 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165 Syosset, New York 11791 (516) 386-3900

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. 815 BAY 25 CORP., ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 7, 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, NY 11435 on February 21, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 815 a/k/a 8-15 Bay 25th Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. 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 15733 and Lot 1. Approximate amount of judgment is $669,416.04 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #719169/2022. Arthur N. Terranova, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 244281-3

Notice of Formation of MGN 137-35 91ST AVE, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/13/25. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 1074 Grand St., Brooklyn, NY 11211. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of RANDY’S HOME REMODEL LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/05/2024. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RANDY TEJADA, 10530 66TH AVENUE, APT 1F, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of CILLCEARN LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/03/2024 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: LIAM KEARNEY, 37-05 30TH ST, APT 421, NEW YORK, NY 11101.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

BERNARD STOEGER LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/18/2024. 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, 50-28 65th Place, Woodside, NY 11377. Reg Agent: Shahriar Rahman, 50-28 65th Place, Woodside, NY 11377.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that in accordance with applicable provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code as enacted in New York, by virtue of certain Event(s) of Default under that certain Pledge and Security Agreement dated as of April 29, 2022 (the “Pledge Agreement”), executed and delivered by Michael A. Ali (the “Pledgor”), and in accordance with it rights as holder of the security, SSA NE Assets LLC (the “Secured Party”), by virtue of possession of that certain Share Certificate held in accordance with Article 8 of the Uniform Commercial Code of the State of New York (the “Code”) and by virtue of those certain UCC-1 Filing Statement made in favor of Secured Party, all in accordance with Article 9 of the Code, Secured Party will offer for sale, at public auction, (i) all of Pledgor’s right, title, and interest in and to the following: 130-43 129 St Holding Corp. (the “Pledged Entity”), and (ii) certain related rights and property relating thereto (collectively, (i) and (ii) are the “Collateral”).

Secured Party’s understanding is that the principal asset of the Pledged Entity is that certain fee interest in real property commonly known as 130-43 129th Street, Ozone Park, New York 11420 (the “Property”). Maltz Auctions (“Maltz”), under the direction of Richard B. Maltz or David A. Constantino (the “Auctioneer”), will conduct a public sale consisting of the Collateral (as set forth in Schedule A below), via virtual bidding, on February 13, 2025 at 12:00pm, in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the approximate amount of $400,000.00, including principal plus interest, and reasonable fees and costs, plus default interest through February 13, 2025, ssubject to open charges and all additional costs, fees and disbursements permitted by law. The Secured Party reserves the right to credit bid. Online bidding will be made available for pre-registered bidders via Maltz's online bidding App available for download in the App Store or on Google play and at via desktop bidding at remotebidding.maltzauctions.com.

Bidder Qualification Deadline: February 12, 2025 by 4:00 pm. Executed Terms & Conditions of Sale along with ten (10%) of Bidders intended bid amount (to be submitted via wire transfer) are required for consideration by any interested party and submitted directly to Maltz. Requests for wiring instructions should be sent to rmaltz@maltzauctions.com.

SCHEDULE A Pledged Interest PLEDGOR Michael A. Ali

ISSUER 130-43 129 St Holding Corp., a New York corporation

INTERESTS PLEDGED 100% membership interest

For the latest news visit qchron.com

The UCC1 was filed on November 18, 2024 with the Secretary of State of the State of New York under the Filing No. # 202411180428349.

VALLELY LAW PLLC Attn: Erick R. Vallely, Esq. Attorneys for Secured Party 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165 Syosset, New York 11791 (516) 386-3900

Margaret Tietz Nursing & Rehabilitation Center provides equal opportunities to all employees, applicants, and admissions, and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, creed, sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, marital status, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive healthcare and autonomy, citizenship or immigration status, military status, or status as a victim of domestic violence, and source of payment in accordance with applicable federal, state and local law.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that in accordance with applicable provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code as enacted in New York, by virtue of certain Event(s) of Default under that certain Pledge and Security Agreement dated as of September 30, 2021 (the “Pledge Agreement”), executed and delivered by Jie Li (the “Pledgor”), and in accordance with it rights as holder of the security, SSA NE Assets LLC (the “Secured Party”), by virtue of possession of that certain Share Certificate held in accordance with Article 8 of the Uniform Commercial Code of the State of New York (the “Code”) and by virtue of those certain UCC-1 Filing Statement made in favor of Secured Party, all in accordance with Article 9 of the Code, Secured Party will offer for sale, at public auction, (i) all of Pledgor’s right, title, and interest in and to the following: 2018 LILIN Realty LLC (the “Pledged Entity”), and (ii) certain related rights and property relating thereto (collectively, (i) and (ii) are the “Collateral”). Secured Party’s understanding is that the principal asset of the Pledged Entity is that certain fee interest in real property commonly known as 63-86 Wetherole Street, Rego Park, New York 11374 (the “Property”).

Maltz Auctions (“Maltz”), under the direction of Richard B. Maltz or David A. Constantino (the “Auctioneer”), will conduct a public sale consisting of the Collateral (as set forth in Schedule A below), via virtual bidding, on February 13, 2025 at 12:30pm, in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the approximate amount of $$500,000.00, including principal plus interest, and reasonable fees and costs, plus default interest through February 13, 2025, subject to open charges and all additional costs, fees and disbursements permitted by law. The Secured Party reserves the right to credit bid. Online bidding will be made available for pre-registered bidders via Maltz's online bidding App available for download in the App Store or on Google play via desktop bidding at and remotebidding.maltzauctions.com.

Bidder Qualification Deadline: February 12, 2025 by 4:00 pm. Executed Terms & Conditions of Sale along with ten (10%) of Bidders intended bid amount (to be submitted via wire transfer) are required for consideration by any interested party and submitted directly to Maltz. Requests for wiring instructions should be sent to r maltz@maltzauctions.com.

SCHEDULE A Pledged Interest PLEDGOR Jie Li

ISSUER 2018 LI-LIN Realty LLC., a New York limited liability company

INTERESTS PLEDGED 100% membership interest

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Real Estate

Open House

EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate.

Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212-941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718-722-3131.

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

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Houses For Sale Howard Beach, elegant brick custom Colonial, 4 BR, 4.5 baths, master BR w/en-suite& 2 BRs w/full baths. Custom KIT, LR, FDR, den. Full finished bsmnt, sep ent, paved yard with IGP w/jacuzzi. Price Improvement Asking $1,390,000. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136 Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Center Hall Colonial. 50x100 lot.

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SSNY on 12/13/2024. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated

as

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agent

upon We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No whom process against the LLC repairs. No Fuss. Any condition.

Easy three step process: Call, get

may be served. SSNY shall mail cash offer and get paid. Get your process to: The LLC, 2110 33rd fair cash offer today by calling Liz Street 8B, Astoria, NY 11106.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670

Classified Ad Deadline is 12 Noon on Tuesday for Thursday’s paper.

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C M SQ page 29 Y K

Notice of Formation of New Dawn Mental Health Counseling PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State (SSNY) on 1/3/25. Office location: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail/email process to: 5027 103rd St, Corona, NY 11368, fcastillo @ mhpwq.org.

Purpose: practice the profession of mental health counseling.

Notice of Formation of PHAROAH’S FEAST LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/05/2024 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: OSAMA ABDELAZIZ, 24-47 85TH STREET, EAST ELMHURST, NY 11370.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., ACTING SOLELY AS A NOMINEE FOR COUNTRYWIDE BANK, FSB, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 16, 2022, 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 February 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 10607 177th Street, Jamaica, NY 11433. 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 10334 and Lot 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,274,777.57 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #701502/2021. Lawrence M. Litwack, Esq., Referee Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs.

MARJORIE MORGAN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 19, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on February 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 214-32 113th Avenue, Queens Village, NY 11429. 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 11136 and Lot 16.

Approximate amount of judgment is $591,833.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #705287/2015. Cash will not be accepted. Gregory M. LaSpina, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff

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SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS, INDEX NO. 724732/2023, Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property, SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS, Mortgaged Premises: 175-13 145TH AVE, JAMAICA, NY 11434, Block 13287, Lot 31. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. LULAR HAYES, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; CITIBANK, N.A.; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Defendants. 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 on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant(s), the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT, THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to quiet title, Lular Hayes’ interest in the Property and deem Plaintiff the sole and true owner of real property located at 175 -13 145TH AVE, JAMAICA, NEW YORK 11434 with a tax map designation of Block 13287, Lot 31. Dated: December 18th, 2024. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, Jadwiga Szajner, Esq., 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310,

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REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDA MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-AR9, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AR9, Plaintiff - against - MOHIBUL ISLAM, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 23, 2022. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY, on the second floor in Courtroom 25 on the 7th day of February, 2025 at 10:00 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Queens, City and State of New York. Premises known as 8709 150th Street, Jamaica, (City of New York) NY 11432. (BL#: 9707-90) Approximate amount of lien $886,832.90 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 716393/2021 FKA 29577/2009.

Helen Eichler, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd., Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832 Dated: November 27, 2024 During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AR1 -againstADRIAN RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on June 26, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007AR1 is the Plaintiff and ADRIAN RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD, COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on January 31, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 220-25 134TH ROAD, SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 11413; and the following tax map identification: 13098-2.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE FOURTH WARD, BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 715762/2022. Michele Augusta Baptiste, Esq. - Referee.

Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 20-066307

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 30

C M SQ page 30 Y K

Holiday photo contest!

Christmas carolers galore! A group on Broadway in Astoria, captured by Barry Ward, who grew up there and now is in Long Island City; and one member of another group in Forest Hills Gardens, with two appreciative listeners, by Jim Kakoullis of Rego Park. More singers are seen in shadow.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Rosemarie Italico shows her holiday spirit in front of her Aunt Anna’s house, as captured by her cousin Thomas Macari of Ozone Park. Top right, Jessica Watz of Glendale had a wonderful, awesome idea: Make a Grinch cake and photograph it! Donna Van Blarcom of Astoria went reindeer hunting with her camera and found a nice specimen at Boulevard Gardens in Woodside.

Above are Santa and some happy kids at the River Fund, by Mike McGevna of South Richmond Hill; indoor decorations by Adrian Pope of Bayside; outdoor decorations by Betty Copeland of Woodhaven; and brothers Joey and Angelo, by their mother, Kristen Aleo of Ozone Park.

At right, clockwise from top left are homemade decorations in a Kew Gardens building

lobby, made by Paula and Osvaldo De Los Santos Jr. and captured by their daughter Melissa; Christmas Krinkles in Rego Park, by Ivy Hammer; decorations in Astoria, by Richard Melnick; decorations in Forest Hills, by Laura Taormina, 10; and Hannah Huang with her new Lego camera, by her mother, June. See great backstories on De Los Santos and Hannah at qchron.com.

Baby Maks made a mess! While her siblings, Przemek and Malina, were careful enough to use straws, Maks got her eggnog all over herself, and her big brother. But mom Jean Marie Krowicki was there to capture the moment, and with it victory in the Queens Chronicle’s 17th Annual Holiday Photo Contest! With three little ones on her hands, the Forest Hills mother will have more than enough places to spend the

$50 gift card, good anywhere, that is her prize.

You too can be a prize winner! Next up will be our 17th Annual Summer in the Borough Photo Contest. Expect to see that one announced right around the time when school lets out for the year. As always, it will be a challenge for us to pick a winner, as it was this time! And you can find more photos than we were able to fit here at qchron.com.

— Peter C. Mastrosimone

“Snowing Outside Glowing Inside” by Jennifer Merdjan of Forest Hills, at the train station there.

C M SQ page 31 Y K

©2024 M1P • CAMI-084022

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!

Asking A ki $1 $1,200,000 200 0

for a Generous Yard, Ideal for Outdoor Living & Entertainment. Home Has 3/4 BRs, Very Spacious Sleeping Quarters for all BRs, Walk-In Closets in 3 BRs, Total 3 F/Baths, With Jacuzzi, Large Kitchen in the Rear of Home, With Sliding Doors to Yard. Fin. Basement w/High Ceilings, Detached 2 Car Garage in Yard.

Asking $1,399,000

!

• Ozone Park k•

New to the market in Ozone Park!

Charming detached 2-family colonial on prime corner lot offers plenty of space & potential. 3 BRs, 2 full baths, & 2 eat-in kitchens. Home features a full partially fi nished basement, a fi nished attic, & a detached garage, private driveway w/ convenient carport. Enjoy outdoor living in the fenced in yard

CIOUS LY SPA D E T C E UNEXP • Howard Beach •

• Howard Beach • Experience the perfect blend of luxury & comfort in this stunning ranch-style home, located in the desirable neighborhood of Howard Beach. Featuring 3 spacious BRs & 3 custom-designed baths, large walk-in closets, home is thoughtfully updated w/premium fi nishes throughout.

• Howard Beach •

Welcome to your dream home! This meticulously crafted 3 BR, 3-full bath residence is a masterpiece of design & craftsmanship. Custom kitchen, adorned w/quartz countertops & Wolf/subzero appliances, is a culinary haven. Each BR features California closets. Enjoy the heated saltwater pool, slide, & waterfall.

Entertain effortlessly w/outdoor kitchen, BBQ, & pizza oven.

MIX USE PROPERTY GREAT INVESTMENT PROPERTY! Vacant Store Front, Full Basement and a 2 BR Apartment on Top Floor

Asking $799K

Classic Tudor-style home w/modern conveniences! Over 2,700 sq ft, w/finished bsmnt. Wood-burning fireplace in LR & FDR. Renov EIK, chef’s delight, granite countertops, SS appliances, & walk-in pantry. 2 lg BRs on the 1st floor. Renov bathroom w/porcelain tiles, new vanity, tub, toilet & linen closet. Upstairs, additional BRs & 1 bath. Lower level offers bsmnt, family room, laundry area, bathroom, & storage room. New tankless water heater, new plumbing & electrical systems & solar panels. Detached 1-car garage & pvt dvwy.

HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK

OZONE PARK

(On Crossbay Blvd.)

Totally updated, Mint condition Hi-Ranch on 35x100 lot. This beautiful home has 4 BRs, and 2 full baths. It has a deck off the 2nd floor and sunroom on main level. Front pavers and trex in yard and on both sides of property.

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, Jan. 25th 12:00 to 2:00pm 160-31 90th Street

Reduced $939K

HOWARD BEACH/ LINDENWOOD Garden Co-op

D ! on 47x100 Center Hall Colonial on 50x100, Allowing

Asking $1,100,000

CL

Fabulous & Spacious, 4,000 sq. ft., 60x100 Lot 5 BRs, 3.5 Baths, 3 Levels of Elegance, Resort Style Yard, 1½ Car Attached Garage

T IO N

Lovely 3 BR Co-op (Converted to 2 BR) Set in Beautiful Courtyard, Maintenance $1,005.16 Including Gas, Heat, Electric, Water.

Real Estate Taxes and 2 A/C’s. Dogs & Cats Allowed Under 30 lbs.

33% Down Payment Required.

Asking $289K

HOWARD BEACH

Elegant Brick Custom Colonial

with Pvt Dvwy, Featuring 4 BRs, 4.5 Baths, Top Floor Features - Master with En-suite and 2 BRs with 2nd Full Bath. Main Level Has Custom (Imported from Italy) Kitchen, Living Room and Formal Dining Room. Also a Den and Another Half Bath. Full Fin Bsmnt, Sep Entrance with 2 Rooms & 2 Full Price Improvement Baths, Paved Yard with In-Ground Asking Pool with Jacuzzi. Stunning Residence!

$1,390,000

HOWARD BEACH/OLD SIDE Unique Doll House 2 BRs, 2 Baths All New. Mint move in condition.

Asking $578,000

CONR-084026

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Reduced $979K

HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK

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UC RE D

Page 31 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025

CENTURY 21 AMIABLE II

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 23, 2025 Page 32

C M SQ page 32 Y K

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150-03 CROSSBAY BLVD., OZONE PARK, NY 11417 Phone: 718-674-6017 HOURS OF OPERATION: Sunday: 11am - 5 pm • Saturday: Closed • Monday - Thursday 10am - 6pm • Friday: 10am - 3pm

PB License 2113211-DCA | SH License 2113210-DCA