Queens Chronicle South Edition 11-02-23

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

PHOTO BY MIKE MARRONE PHOTOGRAPH

VOL. XLVI

NO. 44

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2, 2023

QCHRON.COM

Howard Beach Halloween parade a success PAGE 6 Families clad in their zaniest and spookiest attire poured out en masse for the Howard Beach Kiwanis Club’s 37th annual Halloween Parade along Cross Bay Boulevard on Saturday for a day of tricks, treats and other frightfully fun activities.

ELECT TO SELECT

FARM FUMBLES

SWEET AND SATIRE

This year’s ballot choices

Staff details disorder under Walden Weprin

‘Death by Chocolate’ makes murder fun again

PAGE 2

PAGE 20

SEE qboro, PAGE 31

QUEENS’ LARGEST WEEKLY COMMUNIT Y NEWSPAPER GROUP

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 2

C M SQ page 2 Y K

Who’s on the ballot for the general election?

Races to watch include DA, City Council

by Kristen Guglielmo

T

Associate Editor

he New York City 2023 elections are already underway, and voters are casting their ballots for many positions of public office, including the Queens district attorney and seats on the City Council.

Early voting started on Oct. 28 and will continue through Nov. 5. Residents have an assigned early voting site, which may differ from their regular polling place.

To find an assigned early voting location, visit findmypollsite.vote.nyc.

Voters can also see a sample ballot, which lists the candidates for their district, by visiting that page.

In addition to selecting candidates, voters have the opportunity to weigh in on two proposals.

In case you need a guide before Election Day on Nov. 7, here’s a rundown on all the candidates who are vying for offices in the Queens ’23 races:

challengers for the position: Republican Michael Mossa and Public Safety Party candidate George Grasso, who previously lost to Katz in June’s Democratic primary.

City Council District 19 Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone), the Republican incumbent, will face Democrat Tony Avella, a former state senator and councilman who won the Democratic primary with 51.1 percent of the vote.

eens votes u Q

2 023

District attorney Incumbent Melinda Katz, a Democrat, has served as DA since 2020. She has two

City Council District 20 Sandra Ung (D-Flushing) will fight to retain her seat against Republican James Pai and Better Flushing Party candidate Dany Chen, who lost the Republican primary election to Pai.

City Council District 21 Incumbent Francisco Moya (D-Corona) already won his re-election bid, beating his challengers in the June primary.

City Council District 22 Tiffany Cabán (D-Astoria), the progressive Democrat and the incumbent, will face conservative Republican Kelly Klingman in the polls.

Queens residents will vote for district attorney, their choice of councilmember and a number of PHOTO BY MAX PARROTT / FILE other positions, along with two proposals, by Nov. 7.

City Council District 23 Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) will defend her seat against Bernard Chow, a Republican who ran uncontested in the primary election.

City Council District 24 Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) is no stranger to the City Council, having served in the 24th district from 2002 until 2013,

before being elected again in 2021. Republican Jonathan David Rindali is challenging the incumbent for his seat.

City Council District 25 Incumbent Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) will see two challengers in Republican Zhile Cao and Diversity Party candidate Fatima Baryab. continued on page 26

Presents a

2023 THANKSGIVING DAY FEAST “Just Heat and Eat” Stuffed Mushrooms

Serves

15

People

Penne alla Vodka (18 lbs. with Gravy)

©2023 M1P • ADRR-082553

For the latest news visit qchron.com

WHOLE TURKEY Stuffing with or without Meat Choice of: Candied Yams, Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Sweet Potatoes Choice of: Peas, Carrots & Mushrooms or French Bean Almondine Gorgonzola Salad w/Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing, Cranberry Sauce & Dinner Rolls Plus (1) Pie

$459.00

plus tax & gratuities

plus tax & gratuities

Delivered To Your Home

(Within the 5 Boroughs & Nassau County) Visit Our Website: www.adrianscaterers.com – All Major Credit Cards Accepted –

5-7 People Package Includes:

Dinner For One

Penne alla Vodka

Turkey, Stuffing, String Beans, Mashed Potatoes, Cranberry, Dinner Roll

WHOLE TURKEY (14 lbs. with Gravy) Stuffing with or without Meat Choice of: Candied Yams, Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Sweet Potatoes Choice of: Peas, Carrots & Mushrooms or French Bean Almondine Garden Salad, Cranberry Sauce & Dinner Rolls

$325.00

plus tax & gratuities

$20.00 Pickup Only! a la Carte

Antipasto Supreme ...........................$95.00 String Beans Fresh ...........................$40.00 Mashed Potatoes Fresh ....................$40.00 Candied Yams Fresh .........................$40.00

a la Carte: 18 lb. Whole Cooked Turkey with Gravy $125.00

Stuffed Mushrooms ...........$15.00 doz.

Spiral Ham ..............................................$100.00

Shrimp Cocktail 36 Ct. X-large ......$50.00

Fresh Fruit ................................................$89.00

Brussels Sprouts .......................$25.00

Stuffing .............................................Half $35.00

Mini Cannolli Sfogliatelle ..$24.00 doz.

Pies .......................................$20.00 ea.

Lasagna ............................................Half $60.00

(Apple, Pumpkin or Coconut Custard)

718-845-5525 • 718-845-6101 132-08 Cross Bay Blvd., Ozone Park Email: adrians1@verizon.net

C M SQ page 3 Y K Mon. thru Sat. 10:30 AM-5:30 PM Sun. 10:30 AM-4:30 PM

• Howard Beach $2.00 Delivery Charge • Ozone Park $5.00 Delivery Charge • Woodhaven $10.00 Delivery Charge • Broad Channel Area $2.00 Delivery Charge • Rockaway Beach $15.00 Delivery Charge

Proudly Serving The Community - Superior Quality Meats, Deli & Produce Since 1982

ANNOUNCING THE START OF

STORE HOURS:

Sunday 8 am to 5 pm OUR ANNUAL FOOD DRIVE! Monday - Saturday 8 am to 6 pm Now accepting donations of nonperishable foods, canned goods,

*Minimum wait time of 2 hours. (Tolls included)

Look for us on

search: Brother’s Italian Food World

beverages and desserts. November 1st through November 20th All collections are donated to the Howard Beach Our Lady of Grace Food Bank.

161-10 Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach, NY 11414 Phone: 718-835-7508 Fax: 718-835-8118

SALE DATES: Nov. 3, 2023 thru Nov. 9, 2023

Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 23rd - Open 8am to 1pm

Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 23rd - Open 8am to 1pm

Wrap of the Week Italian Roast Beef Wrap

Page 3 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

HOME DELIVERY SUMMER HOURS:

Homemade Roast Beef, Sliced Sharp Provolonee Cheese, Arugula and Basil Pesto

$

1200

+ tax

On a White or Whole Wheat eat Wrap Also: Available on a Hero $13.00

©2023 M1P • BROD-082583

Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 23rd - Open 8am to 1pm

Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 23rd - Open 8am to 1pm

LONG ISLAND DUCKS SPIRAL HAMS · Carando: CORNISH HENS CAPONS on the Bone or boneless - Fresh: Bell & Evans 8Lb to 28Lb, - Frozen: Turkeys

WHOLE TURKEYS - Fresh: Turkeys

- Frozen / Self Basting: Butterball 18Lb to 22Lb

TURKEY BREAST

- Additional Brands & Sizes are Limited!

FRESH HAMS - on the Bone: Plain or Seasoned Boneless: Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed

PORK ROASTS - Boneless: Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed - On the Bone: Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed - Crown Roast: Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed

TURKEY WINGS LAMB ROASTS TURKEY DRUMSTICKS BROTHER’S ITALIAN PORCHETTA - Leg of Lamb - on the Bone: Plain or Seasoned & Cracked - Boneless Pork Belly, Stuffed with a Boneless BROTHER’S PRIME RIB ROASTS - Boneless: Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed

- On the Bone: 4/7Lb, 10/12Lb, 14/16Lb or 16/20Lb - Boneless Roast: Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed

TURDUKIN

- Plain or Seasoned CRANBERRY & APPLE BREAD STUFFING - Boneless Turkey Breast stuffed with a Boneless Duck and a Boneless Chicken, Seasoned SAUSAGEMEAT STUFFING

Pork Loin & Seasoned

SMOKED HAMS

- Rack of Lamb: Frenched & Cracked & Plain or Seasoned - Crown Roast: Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed

Sales are while supplies last. Free items are while supplies last. Not responsible for typographical errors. Pictures are for illustrative purposes and may not represent the item on promotion.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

NOW TAKING THANKSGIVING ORDERS!

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 4

C M SQ page 4 Y K

Pot shops hope to thrive in South Queens As police crack down on illegal stores, weed license hopefuls share their plans

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

After just a few months of business, Howard Puff Convenience, located at 159-55 102 St. in Old Howard Beach, was raided by police on Monday morning.

The incident resulted in two arrests, including that of the operator, and an estimated $181,200 in penalties, according to a report from the Sheriff’s Office Law enforcement seized untaxed cigarettes, packages of other tobacco products, flavored vape products, THC vapes, packages of THC “flower” — loose marijuana — weighing a total of 8.66 pounds, THC pre-rolls weighing a total of 4.53 pounds and packages of THC edibles weighing a total of 43.76 pounds, the report said.

“After a long effort, including me being personally involved in a sting operation, law enforcement has taken action against the Howard Puff convenience store,” Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) wrote on Facebook. “We cannot allow unlicensed, illegal cannabis retailers to come into our neighborhoods and pedd le thei r products to ou r

children.”

On different posts, including one

by Howard Beach resident PJ Marcel notifying his neighbors of the situation, other residents lamented the sting, saying that the owner is knowledgeable and kind.

Hours later, state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) announced that Magic Pack smoke shop, at 84-17 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven also had been raided.

According to Addabbo’s office — which sits across the street — there were two notices of violations, with 10 violations and 67 counts of violations, bearing an estimated $56,700 in penalties.

The NYC Sheriff’s Joint Compliance Task Force said the following items were seized: flavored vape products, THC vapes, packages of THC flower weighing a total of 4.45 pounds, THC pre-rolls weighing a total of 1.8 pounds and packages of THC edibles weighing a total of 29.1 pounds.

The next steps involve a court date for the operator, Addabbo’s office said; at that point it will be determined whether the location will

Two allegedly illegal South Queens pot shops were targeted in raids last PHOTO BY PJ MARCEL Monday, while two legal ones seek licenses. remain open. Until then, the business can operate.

Those who partake likely are not worried about losing access to THC for very long, however, as the incidents come as two applicants seek licensed dispensaries in South Queens: one at 94-24 Liberty Ave. in Ozone Park, the other at 135-35 Lefferts Blvd. in South Ozone Park.

The locations were discussed at length at Community Board 10’s public hearing last Tuesday with representatives from the shops.

“Our purpose tonight is to provide information regarding the locations ...

So that’s where we’re at,” Chairperson Betty Braton told attendees.

Michael Elias, the owner of the building on Liberty Avenue, said that all product sold will be inspected and certified.

Of the shop, he said, “We’ll keep it as secure as possible.” He plans to have security guards on the premises at all times, and IDs will be checked upon entry into the business, with validation measures to combat fake

IDs. Product will be stored behind safety glass, accessible to employees only.

“We’ll keep the dispensary low key with regards to signs, lights, things like that,” he said. “... Hopefully we’ll put a lot of the illegal smoke shops in the area out of business, who will sell just about anything to anybody.”

Roberto Cotto shared his vision for the Lefferts Boulevard dispensary, saying he wished to create a “safe and welcoming space for both medical patients and adult-use consumers.”

He said the shop would place a value on education, community engagement and responsible use.

In addition to robust security measures, the store plans to offer workshops and seminars on medical benefits, harm reduction and responsible dosing, as well as education on strains, consumption and effects.

“Right now, they are at the beginning of the process of obtaining the license from the state,” Braton said to attendees, reminding everyone that the application process is still in the Q early stages for both locations.

Mid-year DOE budget adjustments to return Fewer students could mean cuts; agency gets in spat with speaker

by Kristen Guglielmo

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Associate Editor

The city Department of Education will commence mid-year budget cuts for schools with lower-than-projected rates of enrollment, the agency announced last Wednesday.

During the Covid pandemic, the DOE adopted a hold-harmless policy, preventing schools that saw lower-than-projected enrollment from experiencing funding reductions. The department will end that policy to revert to the “normal school budgeting process.”

“The mid-year adjustment policy was waived for the past three years, made possible by the Covid-19 federal stimulus funds,” the DOE said in a press release. “Historically and prior to those one-time funds, school budgets were adjusted in Fall of each year, to reflect actual enrollment compared to initial projected enrollment.”

The department said it will formally provide preliminary, nonaudited enrollment numbers in early November and reallocate Fair Student Funding resources accordingly.

“Per long-standing funding policy and in alignment with the approved budget deal

reached between the mayor and the City Council this spring, we will adjust funding to reflect these changes in enrollment, in alignment with how we are funded by the state and federal governments,” the DOE said.

The announcement came with some political pushback.

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) and Councilwoman Rita Joseph (D-Brooklyn), who serves as the Education Committee chair, released a joint statement last Thursday mor ning addressing the announcement.

“The Department of Education’s decision to broadly remove funding from the individual budgets of schools would leave them without the needed resources at this critical moment when they are being asked to do more for students,” they wrote.

They also disputed the idea that there was any agreement between the City Council and the department to make mid-year adjustments to the DOE budget, which the Council adopted at $31.5 billion for fiscal year 2024.

“Any insinuation that there was an agreement for mid-year adjustments to be handled like DOE has announced is patently false,

and it is unfortunate that the DOE would be dishonest with the public,” the councilmembers said. “While the Department made no commitment related to mid-year adjustments, we maintained that school communities must have the necessary dollars needed for this school year and discussions would occur as we approached any adjustments.”

After the councilmembers’ statement, the DOE distributed an amended press release, with the line about an agreement with the City Council notably absent.

The DOE did not initially respond to a request for comment on the statement from the councilmembers. A spokesperson from the Mayor’s Office, however, deferred to the DOE, which then referred the Chronicle to the “Max Politics” podcast episode from Oct. 26, on which Adams was a guest.

Asked about the mid-year adjustments for schools with lower-than-projected enrollment, Adams said, “Quite frankly, we are never happy when we’ve got to take cuts anywhere, particularly when it comes to education.

“The low enrollment factor, though, I think if we are going to see any funding lessened in the DOE, I think that is probably

the most logical thing to do.”

The Chronicle contacted multiple Queens members of the City Council’s Education Committee for comment on the funding, none of whom responded.

In the statement announcing the resumption of the mid-year adjustment policy, the DOE detailed other financial investments it made this year, including $90 million in Fair Student Funding Weights for students in temporary housing and schools with high concentrations of need, an initial holdharmless amount of $180 million in June 2023, $60 million in significant budget appeals and $17 million to adjust for enrollment increases.

The department said schools can expect adjustments to their Fair Student Funding based on student enrollment as of Oct. 31 for general education students, and Dec. 31 for students with disabilities.

Preliminary enrollment data and information regarding the impact of mid-year adjustments will be available in November, a DOE spokesperson said, and spending decisions are made at the school level at the Q sole discretion of school leaders.

C M SQ page 5 Y K

Page 5 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

For the latest news visit qchron.com

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Spooktacular time at HB Halloween parade PHOTOS BY MIKE MARRONE PHOTOGRAPHY

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 6

C M SQ page 6 Y K

Howard Beach residents donned their spookiest and silliest costumes for a day of frightful fun at the Kiwanis Club’s 37th annual Halloween Parade on Saturday, Oct. 28.

Things kicked off with a lineup at the Speedway gas station on Cross Bay Boulevard and 159th Avenue, where attendees waited for the ghoulishly exciting procession to begin.

The event drew in hordes of eager residents ready to revel in the Halloween spirit during a day of food, games and fun. Steve Sirgiovanni, one of the parade’s primary organizers, said the event was a resounding success.

Clockwise, from top right: The procession makes its way down Cross Bay with hundreds joining in; Joe Corace, former Kiwanis governor,

poses with a Grand Marshal sash; young girls show off their costumes; Girl Scouts from Troop 4738 stand tall in their outfits; a baby duckling is doted on; a dog dons a Buzz Lightyear getup; students from The Scholars’ Academy display their musical talents during the procession; Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato, dressed as a slice of pizza, joins in on the festivities, posing with the American Softball League; Boy Scouts in Troop 237 proudly stand with the flag; and the guests of honor, Mr. and Mrs. Met, have some fun with Sirgiovanni and the commanding officer of the 106th Precinct, Deputy Inspector Jerome Bacchi.

At center, the sporty couple gathers with Kiwanis Club members.

— Kristen Guglielmo

C M SQ page 7 Y K

Now Offering Free Delivery * TO:

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

ANTHONY Y SCICCHITANO NO O

STORE HOURS:

MON.-SAT 8AM - 6PM • SUN. 8AM-2PM Please Wear A Mask & Keep Social Distancing in the Store. Thank You!

AS •

DELIVERY DAYS:

• Ozone Park • S. Ozone Park Thurs., • Richmond Hill • Howard Beach Tues., Fri., & Sat. *With A Min. of $25 • Lindenwood From 9AM to 4:30PM

We now have SALE DATES: Fri., Nov. 3rd ITALIAN through IMPORTS Thurs., Nov. 9th

PORK STORES E ES SINCE 19488

GROCERY DEPARTMENT

Cuoco

Pietro

3

Caputo

CORICELLI CREMA e GUSTO DURUM WHEAT GRAPESEED OIL ESPRESSO COFFEE SEMOLINA

CAPONATA $ 99 7 oz.

Lavazza

$

Ea

799

33.8 oz.

Ea

250 Grams

$

599

$

Ea

2-2 lb.

499

Ea

Renna

Mutti

Salvati

La Squisita

ARTICHOKES

CHERRY TOMATOES

GIARDINIERA $ 49

STRAINED TOMATOES $ 99

with Stem in oil 6.35 oz.

$

699

14 oz.

Ea

100% Sirloin

Ea

Imported

FILET MIGNON Whole

6 lb.

$

1799

12 oz.

3

Ea

2

24 oz.

STUFFED PORK CHOPS

WHOLE CHICKEN

329lb.

Sweet or Hot

$

5

99

lb.

Ea

CHICKEN ROLATTINI

PORK SPARE RIBS $ 59

Stuffed with Spinach, Riccota and Mozzarella

4 lb.

Ea

Homemade

Bell & Evans

$

349

MEAT DEPARTMENT

CHOPPED Fresh MEAT Ground 99 To Order! $

No Extra Charge For Cutting The Chicken!

$

Page 7 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

WE ACCEPT: ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS, EBT

$

599

lb.

#1 In Queens Homemade

FRESH CUTLETS

$

499

Chicken. ...... 5

$ 99 ITALIAN Beef. ............ 9 lb.

SAUSAGE LINKS Pork. ............ $699lb.

Sweet, Hot & Fennel

lb.

$

99

lb.

DELI DEPARTMENT Citterio

Homemade

Homemade

SLICING PEPPERONI

MORTADELLA

FRESH MOZZARELLA

ROAST BEEF

Deli Style

$

899

lb.

Homemade

FRESH TUNA SALAD

$

99

7

lb.

With Pistachio Nuts

$

659

$

Citterio

DANISH BLUE CHEESE

lb.

HOT OR SWEET

SLICING SOPRESSATA

$

14

99

lb.

999

$

lb.

9

99

lb.

718-849-2244

$

1399

lb.

Boar’s Head White or Yellow

AMERICAN CHEESE

$

599

103-13 101 ST AVENUE • OZONE PARK

lb.

©2023 M1P • A&SP-082578

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Citterio

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 8

C M SQ page 8 Y K

NYS budget: good news, but red flags State spending, deficits reduced; immigration costs ‘unsustainable’

by Michael Gannon

an additional $358 million in the mid-year update to cover costs of camps at the CreedThe state’s annual mid-year budget update, moor Psychiatric Center in Queens Village; released Monday, showed lower estimated Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn; and on Randall’s Island. There also has been fundspending for this fiscal year and next, and also ing for case management, medical services has substantially reduced deficit projections in and other costs. the next three years.

But the memo also said “with the continBut a memo to Gov. Hochul’s office dated ued influx of migrants, no promises of finanlast Saturday from Budget Director Blake cial support from the Federal government and Washington said the state still “faces many no clear pathway to a wholesale policy headwinds.”

The memo, first published by Politico, also change at the Federal level to address the sitmentions aid to New York City for immigrant uation, New York State can only shoulder this financial commitment for a limited duration services as a serious target for cuts. without putting other areas of the State budThe state’s fiscal year runs from April 1 to get at risk ...”

March 31 of the following calendar year.

At-risk areas named specifically in the Increases in some revenue streams and memo include aid to public schools, support for sharpened pencils at state agencies preparing for Jan. 1 have cut the projected deficit for fis- the state’s health delivery infrastructure and the cal year 2025 from the $9.1 billion as was fore- readiness of the New York National Guard.

“This is compounded by our need to cast in May to $4.3 billion. The 384-page reviaddress the remaining FY 2025 $4.3 billion sion released Monday places deficit estimates for FY 2026 and 2027 at $9.5 billion and $7.7 gap in partnership with the State Legislabillion, respectively, both down about $5 bil- ture,” Washington continued. “As we move forward, outside of fulfilling our existing lion from original estimates.

Washington’s Oct. 28 memo calls aid to commitments, we must consider limiting our New York City for the migrant crisis one of the assistance to targeted interventions such as most pressing of the aforementioned economic legal services, case management and efforts to connect migrants and asylum seekers to headwinds.

It states that Albany has committed $1.5 jobs, as opposed to sharing in more costly services such as indefinite stays in hotel billion in the present FY 2024 budget, with Senior News Editor

Musnik Chiropractic Health & Wellness Brand New Cutting Edge Technology ONLY CHIRO with MOVING X-RAY IN NEW YORK Moving X-Ray

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Low radiation, cutting-edge technology diagnoses health issues quickly!

Thermograph Digital infrared scan detects interference of nerve flow

Digital Pulsar Multi-impulse scan locates locked vertebrae and muscle spasms.

40 + years in business

Call Now (718) 845-3721

8808 151 Ave., Howard Beach, NY 11414

rooms. New York’s ability to pay for these programs is not unlimited.”

Hochul has stated a commitment to balancing the budget without raising taxes or relying on one-time use of reserves to fund reoccurring expenditures.

“This will require revisions to projected spending growth for existing programs which will make our ability to provide assistance to asylum seekers and migrants unsustainable,” Saturday’s memo said. “We must exercise fiscal prudence now, so that we can maintain our record level of investments to state programs and robust savings and continue our efforts to make New York more affordable, more livable, and safer for this generation and beyond.”

Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, lauded the state’s progress in a statement issued Monday. But he also said far more work is needed.

“While the Mid-Year Update clearly includes some good news, the State is still far from out of the woods,” Rein said. “Lower spending and higher receipts reduce next year’s gap from $9.1 billion to $4.3 billion, but significant spending restraint is still needed to stabilize and strengthen the State’s fiscal foundation.”

He said FY 2027’s presently expected $7.7 billion deficit is only sustained by assuming $9.1 billion in prepayments, reserves and sun-

Immigrants lug their belongings as they arrive at the tent city at Creedmoor. The state says costs are piling up. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN / FILE setting tax increases. Rein said that means the state’s long-term structural imbalance for FY 2027 is still more than $16.8 billion.

“The State should take decisive action to rein in spending in the upcoming budget in order to stave off significant future cuts,” he Q concluded.

Your Journey to Health and Wellness

by Dr. Avrum Musnik You’ve got to see this to believe it! Are you experiencing any of the following?

Nagging sciatica, disabling migraines, asthma or annoying neck or back pain?

Are you pregnant and need back pain relief? Want to avoid a C-section or help an infant with colic naturally?

These are some of the ailments treated at Musnik Chiropractic Health and Wellness.

This offi ce is positively different and serves the public with the most unique technology. Dr. Musnik has been practicing for more than 40 years and continues to add cutting-edge technology to diagnose and heal you quickly!

Call us NOW to see for yourself! Come to regain your health with natural healing and experience the following: 1. Initial Consultation/Evaluation 2. Digital Thermography 3. Moving Digital Pulse X-ray 4. Digital Multi-Impulse Analysis and Palpation Report of Findings: a. Main Culprits of Spinal Problem b. Recommended Care c. Nutrition d. Exercise e. Post Evaluation f. Progress Report

TAKE A NEW APPROACH AND GET WELL NATURALLY! CALL NOW OR VISIT OUR OFFICE AT: Musnik Chiropractic and Health 8808 151 Avenue, Suite P3, Howard Beach, NY 11414 (718) 845-3721 – ADVERTORIAL –

C M SQ page 9 Y K

SENIOR DISCOUNT Take FRI. SAT. SUN. MON. TUES. WED. THURS. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov. Nov.

3

4

5

6

7

8

Your Order

WHEN YOU SPEND $125 Excluding catering orders. With this coupon.

Expires 11/09/23. Limit One per family.

Order on line KEYFOODOZONEPARK.COM For an extra 5% off your order!

Your neighborhood market since 1937

Sale Dates

5% OFF!

$10.00 OFF

9

102-02 101 st AVE. • OZONE PARK • 718-849-8200 PHONE ORDERS GLADLY ACCEPTED

We Accept All Major Credit Cards WIC - EBT

STORE HOURS: Mon.-Sun. 8 am to 9 pm

Go online at Keyfood ozonepark.com and check out our catering menu and also order your

Page 9 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

EVERY WEDNESDAY IS

Thanksgiving specials

SLICED TURKEY BREAST (8-12 lbs)

with choice of 3 Sides & a Pie

$

9999

Includes Gravy SIDES

• Sweet Potatoes • Mashed Potatoes • Steamed Vegetables • Stuffi ng • String Beans • Corn • Gravy

PIES

• Pumpkin • Apple • Coconut • Sweet Potato We reserve the right to limit quantities to one can or package on sale items. Items offered for sale are not available in case lots. Alcoholic beverages may not be available in all locations.

We are not responsible for typographical errors. Some Items Not Available in all Locations.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

(feeds 6-8)

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 10

C M SQ page 10 Y K

P Rampant anti-Semitism finally faces a real backlash EDITORIAL

D

oing a search for “anti-Semitism” as a file name in our editorial archive yields a disturbing number of results. It seems we write at least one editorial on the subject every year, and lately it’s been more often than that.

The Jew hatred we’re witnessing also seems to be worse and more widespread than ever. FBI Director Christopher Wray himself said Tuesday that anti-Semitism is “a threat that is reaching in some ways sort of historic levels.” He noted that while Jewish people make up 2.4 percent of the U.S. population, they are the target of about 60 percent of all hate crimes driven by religion. And according to the AntiDefamation League, the number of incidents has jumped 400 percent in the weeks since the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel, compared to the same time period last year.

In New York State, which has the largest Jewish population in the world outside of Israel, some students are now afraid to go to class. And you can’t blame them.

At Cornell University, someone posted on social media threats to kill all the “pig Jews” on campus with an assault weapon. Channeling Hamas, the person also threatened to rape and kill Jewish women and behead Jewish babies. Officers have arrested a suspect, himself a student, who now

AGE

faces federal charges. At Cooper Union, Jewish students retreated to a locked library as pro-Palestinian protesters banged on the doors. Police later said they might no longer adhere to the college’s wishes that they stay in plainclothes.

At Columbia University, the radical Students for Justice in Palestine issued a statement supporting the massacres perpetrated by Hamas, and when they came under fire, 100 instructors put out a statement supporting them. The next day, nearly 300 other instructors signed a letter condemning their colleagues, saying they were “astonished” and “horrified” that people would justify the acts of the terrorists.

Colleges are a hotbed of anti-Semitism — they must be teaching a lot of false history there — but this spike in hatred toward Jews is everywhere. We know of students who have changed their names on their Uber accounts so the driver won’t know they’re Jewish. And as we saw in a new video posted on social media Tuesday, you can’t even trust all yellow cabbies to do their job without bias right now. As traffic crawls along a highway in Queens, maybe the Van Wyck Expressway, a taxi driver is seen leaning out the window and ripping one of those little flags you can fly from the window frame right off a minivan. It was the flag of Israel.

LETTERS TO THE Published every week by

MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC.

MARK WEIDLER

President & Publisher SUSAN & STANLEY MERZON Founders Raymond G. Sito General Manager Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief Michael Gannon Senior News Editor Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor Naeisha Rose 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 Richard Weyhausen Proofreader Senior Account Executives: Jim Berkoff, Beverly Espinoza

Jew hatred rising Dear Editor: For years people who are pro-Palestinian have stated that being anti-Zionist is not antiSemitic. The last month has proved that to be a lie.

Anyone watching the pro-Palestinian rallies has heard cries for the elimination of Israel as a country and anti-Semitic chants that have nothing to do with Israel. Also, police report that anti-Semitic incidents have increased by 60 percent since Oct. 7.

There also have been several cases in which university presidents have not spoken out against the on-campus intimidation of Jewish students. For example, Jewish students at Cooper Union recently had to lock themselves in the school library to protect themselves from a proPalestinian mob.

I am shocked at the level of hatred right here in this city against Jews. The atmosphere is beginning to resemble Germany in the 1930s.

Lenny Rodin Forest Hills

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Account Executives: Ree Brinn, Patricia Gatt

Contributors: Lloyd Carroll, Mark Lord, Ronald Marzlock

Photographers: Walter Karling, Michael Shain

Office: The Shops at Atlas Park 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-201 Glendale, NY 11385 Phone: (718) 205-8000 Fax: (718) 205-1957 E-mail: Mailbox@qchron.com Website: www.qchron.com

MEMBER

Hamas proud of atrocities Dear Editor: In April 1945, World War II Supreme Allied Commander Dwight E. Eisenhower was shocked at the Nazi brutality he witnessed at the Nazi Ohrdruf concentration camp. He was © Copyright 2023 by MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. All rights reserved.

Neither this newspaper nor any part thereof may be reproduced, copied, or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, microfilming, recording or by any information retrieval system without the express written permission of the publishers. This copyright is extended to the design and text created for advertisements. Reproduction of said advertisement or any part thereof without the express written permission of MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. is strictly prohibited. This publication will not be responsiblefor errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Bylined articles represent the sole opinion of the writer and are not necessarily in accordance with the views of the QUEENS CHRONICLE. This Publication reserves the right to limit or refuse advertising it deems objectionable.

The Queens Chronicle is published weekly by Mark I Publications, Inc. at a subscription rate of $19 per year and out of state, $25 per year.

Periodicals Postage Paid (USPS0013-572) at Flushing, N.Y. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mark I Publications, Inc., 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-201, Glendale, NY 11385.

The cabbie then swerves toward the minivan, nearly hitting it. We’ll see what the Taxi & Limousine Commission does about it. He can’t escape with that license plate recorded.

You’ve probably seen the heartbreaking posters of Hamas hostages — men, women, children, babies — labeled “Kidnapped.” You may have seen that some have been defaced by stickers that read “Occupier.” You may have seen videos of people tearing them down, including, of course, at NYU. And you may have seen the video of the righteous construction workers in Forest Hills who confronted a poster vandal on 108th Street and suggested in very New York terms that he find a new hobby. We couldn’t be more proud.

Mayor Adams gave one of the strongest speeches of his career at a pro-Israel rally Oct. 10. Gov. Hochul allocated $50 million this week for law enforcement to go after anti-Semites and $25 million for vulnerable institutions to harden security.

She also announced a review of policies on anti-Semitism at public colleges. The establishment seems to have finally realized it has a serious problem on its hands and is acting to combat it. It may not be as direct and forceful as a couple of guys in Queens, and it won’t get results as quickly as they did, but we need a real change before something terrible happens.

E DITOR

afraid that future generations might not believe that the horrors of the Holocaust were real. To preserve history for future generations, he had the media record the scene. He also had American soldiers, along with Germans who lived in the adjacent communities, view the atrocities for themselves.

Hamas recorded their barbaric acts of death and bodily mutilation against babies, children, adults, seniors and Israel soldiers on cell phones and video for all to see. There is no question about atrocities committed by Hamas, as they were proud to document their evil work.

Larry Penner Great Neck, LI

Park sports disrupt life Dear Editor: I am writing to highlight the pressing issue that concerned residents near Hinton Park in Corona are confronted with. The unceasing disturbances caused by sports teams and their fans have greatly disrupted our neighborhood’s peace, necessitating immediate action and legal

intervention.

Despite our notifications to Councilmember Francisco Moya, the Parks Department and the Police Department, the situation remains unchanged, putting our community’s rights and well-being in jeopardy. This persistent neglect has had severe repercussions, with our co-op property values plummeting to half of their market price.

The overarching concerns we face encompass several critical aspects: 1. Unabated nuisance and disruptions: The continuous disturbances, including excessive noise and unruly conduct, persist, leaving us deprived of the tranquility we deserve.

2. Property value devaluation: The prolonged disruptions have eroded our property values, undercutting our investments and the overall stability of our community.

3. Health and security: The relentless disruptions take a toll on our mental and physical well-being, affecting our sleep patterns and exposing us to unnecessary stress.

4. Constitutional rights and zoning: Our rights to privacy and peaceful enjoyment of

C M SQ page 11 Y K

Please visit our website to see a full list of all our products!

AMDUSA Now Has Uniforms All Sizes and All Colors for Women and Men. 8 MINUTE DRIVE FROM QUEENS CENTER MALL 934 JAMAICA AVENUE CALL OR VISIT US TODAY!

BROOKLYN, NY 11208 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

718-277-2051 Mon.-Sat. 10 am to 6 pm

Quality, Selection and Excellent Customer Service!

71-31 73 RD PLACE 7 GLENDALE 2nd Location NY 11385 OPEN: MON. - SAT. 10 am to 6 pm

LOCATED IN THE LINDENWOOD SHOPPING CENTER

I C K Y’

•

ND OM R

SAME-DAY WASH & FOLD SERVICE

We Only Use Tide, Clorox, Downy

HOURS: Mon. - Sat. 7 am - 8 pm Sun. 7 am - 6 pm

Self-Service Coin Laundry Only Pay For What You Use No Cards

82-37A 153rd Ave., Howard Beach, NY 11414 Lindenwood Shopping Center (Next To Key Food)

718-843-1084

For the latest news visit qchron.com

CLEAN FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT

FULL-TIME ATTENDANT ON DUTY

AT

WE OFFER PICKUP AND DELIVERY SERVICE!

House GOP overreaches Dear Editor: I actually don’t feel so bad about the election of the faux-Bible-thumping, reactionary, homophobic, anti-extreme choice the GOP has chosen. I am smiling because very soon the result will be Speaker of the House Hakeem Jeffries.

Stew Frimer Forest Hills

Sun. 10 am to 4 pm

AMDUSA@optonline.net

• Deli Supplies • Pizza Supplies • Bakery Supplies • Bar Supplies • Restaurant Supplies • Supermarket Supplies KITCHEN EQUIPMENT such as: ✔ Blenders ✔ Freezers ✔ Refrigerators ✔ Food Processors ✔ Grills ✔ Fryers ✔ Stoves & More!

AMDU-081832

Gov. must back wind power Dear Editor: Gov. Hochul’s latest announcement on offshore wind projects brings good news to Queens, particularly for residents of the Queensbridge and Ravenswood NYCHA projects. That neighborhood is one of New York’s asthma alleys, because the Ravenswood gasgenerating power station, in a blatant act of environmental injustice, is situated in a lowincome, Black neighborhood.

In a critical step toward transitioning New York from polluting and climate-heating gas power, Hochul just announced that three new offshore wind projects have been secured.

One of them, Attentive Energy One, at 1404 MW, developed by TotalEnergies, Rise Light & Power and Corio Generation, includes a novel fossil repurposing plan for the Ravenswood plant, a step toward retiring fossil fuel power generation in the heart of New York City and transitioning the current workforce to clean energy jobs.

Yet the new offshore wind projects barely replace four large projects already underway, and likely to be canceled because the Public Service Commission denied them inflation adjustments, and Hochul vetoed a bill allowing cable access for one of them.

Is the governor truly committed to providing the mandated nine gigawatts of offshore wind by 2035, and to the resulting economic development, job training and new jobs?

Much of Queens is vulnerable to climateheating’s flooding risks and increasingly powerful hurricanes with unprecedented increases in severity, like Category 5 Otis that just ravaged Acapulco. If Gov. Hochul cares about Queens residents, she must get serious about our gas transition to clean offshore wind.

Morgan McLenan Jamaica

In Stock!

Products we offer:

S

Dear Editor: I am a senior, undergraduate student at CUNY Queens College who lives in Eastern Queens. When I walk through my community it’s hard to ignore all of the litter that lines the streets. The sewers are swarmed with not only plastic bags and dead leaves, but also mountains of discarded bottles and cans. Everyone deserves to live in a community free from waste and pollution, and keeping litter off our streets keeps our environment safe for everyone and everything.

I am a member of NYPIRG, the New York Public Interest Research Group, and we have been working to modernize New York’s Bottle

amdusany.com

Min. Delivery $400.00

25,000 Products

U

Raise, widen drink deposits

AND TO THE

GENERAL PUBLIC

LA

Dear Editor: Re your Oct. 26 editorial “The horrible spike in overdose deaths”: You said the real solution for the rise in overdose deaths “is to prevent people from developing deadly drug habits in the first place.” But a misguided movement called “harm reduction” encourages drug use by providing addicts with facilities and equipment to shoot up their drug of choice.

NYC’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene operates two “safe” injection sites, in East Harlem and Washington Heights, where addicts can use hard drugs like meth and cocaine under supervision (New York Post, Aug. 12). U.S. Attorney Damian Williams of New York’s Southern District threatened to shut down both sites because they violate the 1988 Anti-Drug Abuse Act (New York Daily News, Aug. 14). NYC also set up vending machines with drug-related devices, including free crack pipes (Post, Jan. 6). New York State’s Office of Addiction Services, funded by a $2.6 billion budget windfall (Post, Aug. 12), runs a TV ad campaign offering hard drug addicts free fentanyl test strips, with “no questions asked.”

But California’s political leaders take a different approach. Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill allowing cities to open “safe” injection sites because it would create “a world of unintended consequences.” San Francisco Mayor London Breed, who initially supported harm reduction, now blames it for turning a section of her city into an open-air drug market. She recently proposed a measure denying welfare benefits to drug addicts who refuse to be tested and treated.

Newsom and Breed realize that harm reduction is a woke fantasy with tragic consequences. Drug addicts need tough love, not pathetic permissiveness.

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

RESTAURANT STORE OWNERS

• M

‘Harm reduction’ fuels drug use

E

Bill. Over its 40-year run the Bottle Bill has been highly effective, reducing roadside plastic waste by 70 percent. But New York needs more; it’s time for the Bottle Bill to be modernized and expanded.

There are so many items that have been left out of the Bottle Bill. Expanding it to include more alcoholic and noncarbonated beverages would drastically reduce litter. And increasing the bottle deposit from 5 to 10 cents would not only increase recycling rates, but also generate money that can be used to further support recycling in our city.

I call on Gov. Hochul to support the expansion of the Bottle Bill. 2023 is the 40th anniversary of the first year of the law. The time is long overdue to modernize and improve it.

Nicholas K. Suresh Queens Village

©2023 M1P • MIKL-082441

our properties are under threat, and the disregard for zoning regulations compounds the issue.

We implore immediate attention by Councilmember Moya to this matter, emphasizing the urgent need for collaborative efforts to revisit regulations, enhance enforcement and foster open discussions with stakeholders. Our shared goal is to reinstate the quality of life that our community rightly deserves.

Wolfgang Busch Corona

RESTAURANT & BAR SUPPLIES OPEN TO ALL

DITOR

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

LETTERS TO THE

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 12

C M SQ page 12 Y K

Housing disparities persist for minorities

AG James releases report on homeownership discrimination

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

A report released by the office of state Attorney General Tish James Oct. 24 says the racial disparities between people of color, mostly Black and Latino New Yorkers, and their white counterparts is widening in terms of homeownership, and costing the minority groups $200 million over the course of their mortgage loans.

There were 16,000 fewer applicants of color applying for home mortgage loans statewide from 2020 to 2021 despite the government requiring lenders to offer the lowest interest rates in years during the Covid-19 pandemic. That resulted in a loss of $44 million in estimated annualized savings across the state, according to the OAG report.

The average 30-year fixed-mortgage rate was 2.65 percent in 2021.

In 2019, rates were nearly double that and they have nearly tripled in 2023, according to data from Business Insider.

Blacks and Latinos, and in some cases Asian Americans, who did apply for home mortgages were more likely to be denied and the few that were approved received higher prices for their loan products and more costs associated with fees even when underwriting factors such as credit scores, debt-to-income ratio, loan-to-value ratio and application year, the OAG report continued.

That was true across the board in every region of the state.

White applicants who had the same background as their Black and Latino counterparts were more than twice likely to own a home in comparison, they had better refinancing options and they paid less in fees and home insurance, the report added.

“Owning a home is an essential

part of achieving the American dream and building wealth to pass on to future generations,” said James in a statement. “Unfortunately, unequal access to affordable credit is still pervasive across our state, reinforcing the legacy of segregation, leading to a disparity in homeownership, and fueling the racial wealth gap.”

Data in the report stated that Black and Latino borrowers were charged $4,200 more in interest rate payments over the course of their loans and an additional $900 in other costs and fees compared to white and Asian borrowers from 2018 to 2021, costing them $200 million more in interest and other costs and fees with loan terms of 10, 15, 20, 25 or 30 years.

Applicants of color also have a 21 percent greater probability of having their loan refinancing applications denied compared to white applicants.

Asian Americans with a 670 credit score were denied at a higher rate — more than 25 percent — for home-purchase loans, followed by Blacks and Latinos — approximately 24 percent — than their white counterparts, about 23 percent.

Asian Americans with credit scores of 670 to 699 had their applications denied at a rate of 20 percent, followed by Black and Latinos, at more than 15 percent, and their white counterparts were denied a little over 10 percent of the time.

Blacks, Latinos and Asians were denied more than 5 to over 10 percent of the time compared to their white counterparts with credit scores ranging from 700 to 779, whereas their white counterparts were denied a little over 5 percent if not less.

Blacks, Latinos and Asians were denied at a rate of 10 percent or more

A report from the Office of the state Attorney General says that even when people of color have the same credit score as their white counterparts they get denied for home loan purchases at a higher rate.

credit scores were denied mortgages, not just individually, but in neighborhoods where they were the predomina nt popu lat ion.

Government policies were approved to erect highways to separate white A me r ica n s f rom poor foreigners and minorities.

L e n d e r s we r e directed to call predominantly Black neighborhoods like Long Island City, Laurelton and sections of Flushing and Corona, as well as the Hammels part of the Rockaway A map depicting redlining in Queens using data from 1934.

IMAGES COURTESY NYS Peninsula, which h a d low-i n c o m e when they had a credit score of 800 and Latino New Yorkers can afford laborers from Germany, Poland, Ireto 850, whereas their white counter- to live and stay in their communities land, Great Britain, Italy, Russia, parts were denied at a rate a little will require solutions from all levels Finland, Spain and France, red zones, places too risky for investof government.” over 5 percent.

City Councilwoman Nantasha ments, according to an interactive “The Attorney General’s thorough analysis unequivocally shows Williams (D - Queens Village) panorama created by the University of Richmond in Virginia called the racial disparities in homeowner- concurred. “ ... This issue hits close to home Mapping Inequality: Redlining in ship and home financing throughout New York State,” said Assemblyman for my district, which boasts as one New Deal America, using data from Clyde Vanel (D-Queens Village), of the highest population of black 1934.

A section of Forest Hills was who represents a predominantly homeowners in the country,” WilBlack District 33. “Homeownership liams said. “A recent census reported green zoned because it had only represents a cornerstone of the in The New York Times even indi- wealthy white Americans.

While the Supreme Court ruled in cated that black resiAmerican dream, dents are leaving 1948 that racially restrictive housing, yet this report paints New York due to or directives by homeowner associaa disheartening picwning a challenges related to tions were unenforceable, white ture where individuhomeownership and homeowners who sold or rented to als of color a re home is ... f i n a n c e s . T h i s Black, Chinese, Jewish and Japanese denied this dream. u n d e r s c o r e s t h e people from across the country We must focus our the American pressing need for would end up with voided contracts, efforts to rectify this intensive efforts to according to a 2021 NPR report. imbalance and pave Dream ... ” James believes subsidizing or eradicate these disthe way for a just — Tish James, parities. We must providing down-payment support and inclusive future state attorney general work collectively to for first-generation homeowners; for ever y New c r e a t e a f u t u r e funding community development Yorker.”

City Council Speaker Adrienne where everyone, regardless of race financial institutions that lend to Adams (D-Jamaica) shared the same or ethnicity, enjoys equal opportuni- historically excluded communities; ties in homeownership and fair lend- passing public banking legislation sentiments. that support entities that construct “The Attorney General’s report ing practices.”

The report illustrated that the affordable housing; strengthening emphasizes how the pathway to homeownership is increasingly out compound effects of redlining, disin- tools to address discriminatory of reach for Black and Latino com- vestment in urban centers, urban practices; and supporting initiatives munities due to racial discrimination renewal projects that destroyed that ensure all New Yorkers have and barriers to funding and access,” neighborhoods and racial restrictive access to local banking services are said Adams. “The significant exodus covenants have all played a factor in a just a few ways to address the of Black New Yorkers over the past the lack of access people of color widening homeownership gap for two decades is a consequence of that have to obtaining homeownership, people of color.

“This report makes it clear that increasingly narrow path and a which also resulted in a lack of trust our state must do more to provide broader affordability and housing in banks.

The American Housing Act in better resources for homebuyers and crisis that impacts all New Yorkers ...

“This Council is proud to have 1949 expanded the federal govern- strengthen housing laws to help allocated over $16 million in the Fis- ment’s role in housing, resulting in empower more New Yorkers,” James cal Year 2024 city budget to a vari- “slums” being decimated via autho- said in a statement. “My office ety of initiatives to assist current and rized use of eminent domain, which remains committed to fighting houspotential homeowners, including displaced 300,000 people by 1979, ing discrimination in all forms, and I home loan, foreclosure prevention, according to the Massachusetts Bud- look forward to working with my partners in government to address and emergency repair programming. get & Policy Center.

Q Well-off minorities with good this problem.”

Ensuring that generations of Black

“O

C M SQ page 13 Y K

TH

TH

OR VOTE EARLY OCT. 28 – NOV. 5

Page 13 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

Vote On Tuesday, November 7th District Attorney Melinda Katz

Delivering SAFETY and JUSTICE for Queens.

DEMOCRAT FOR QUEENS DISTRICT ATTORNEY PAID FOR BY KATZ NYS

For the latest news visit qchron.com

RE-ELECT

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 14

C M SQ page 14 Y K

Karlin

Double-check before mailing your checks

Custom draperies, upholstery & more

Queens resident followed most of the safety rules; still got burned

WINDOW TREATMENTS All Labor Done by World-Class Craftsmen

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Silhouette®

Window Shadings

WE CARRY A LL NAME BRAND FABRICS • Shutters by Hunter Douglas - Heritance - Palm Beach™ ®

Wide Variety of Reupholstery Fabrics • CUSTOM DRAPERIES Balloon Shades, Roman Shades, Austrian Shades, Cornices

• Privacy Sheers

- Luminette® with PowerGlide®

• CUSTOM VALANCES • CUSTOM REUPHOLSTERY

• LiteRise®

- Duette® with LiteRise® - Parkland® Wood Blinds - Decor® with LiteRise® - Pleated Shades with LiteRise®

• CUSTOM BEDSPREADS • PLASTIC SLIPCOVERS • FOAM CUSHION REPLACEMENTS • VERTICAL BLINDS

FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE, LET US BRING THE SHOWROOM TO YOU!

©2023 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners.

63 YEARS of experience & reliability

For your convenience, WE PROVIDE DRY CLEANING, WASHING & REHANGING of your draperies

17-18 154 TH STREET, WHITESTONE (Opposite PS 194 and Near St. Luke RCC) Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

718-445-9393

Visit Our Website: www.KarlinDecorators.hdspd.com for our complete Hunter Douglas product selection

©2023 M1P • KARW-082297

For the latest news visit qchron.com

RECEIVE A FREE ESTIMATE. ASK FOR BEN

He did just about everything right to protect his money — from using a specialized pen to fill out his property tax check to dropping it in a street mailbox with the thin, narrow slit to prevent mailbox fishing.

And it still, for now, has cost him nearly $6,000 after the check was stolen, “washed” and rewritten by a thief who was able to cash it about two weeks go.

Reconfigured mailboxes were designed to thwart attempts to fish for “I’m hoping to get checks, but are not infallible.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON /FILE the money back,” said the victim, whose name is being withheld by cious. And they still cashed the check.” the Chronicle along with other possibly It had been made out to the city’s Departidentifying details. ment of Finance, with his borough, block “I had to pay interest because my tax number and all other necessary information payment was missed,” the central Queens on the memo line. resident said. “I read about two years ago All were still there, with the exception of that this was occurring. And I thought the the Department of Finance being erased for new mailboxes solved this, but they did not. a new payee.

“Someone I mentioned this to at the post The thief even rewrote the original office said, ‘Oh no, it does nothing. Always amount back in to make sure the handwritbring it to the post office.’” ing matched.

A few years go, it seemed everyone in The victim said the bank has told him he law enforcement from the U.S. Postal might have the money back within a few Inspection Service to individual NYPD predays. He’s waiting to see what happens. cinct detective squads were inundated with “I filled out an affidavit,” he said. There complaints about mail that was fished from also were vendors he had to contact to give older mail boxes by thieves using string to them his new banking information, ones lower bottles, blocks of wood or other items which collect automatic monthly payments. into the collection bin after covering them T-Mobile was fine. with a sticky substance in order to steal “But getting through to Con Ed, oh my envelopes.

God ...”

Any cash recovered was instant profit.

The city, he said, also was of little help.

Many checks could be chemically “washed” Personnel at 311 answered promptly, but so the ink from regular pens could be when he was transferred, the message just removed and new payees — and dollar said to call at another time. amounts, often substantially more than the And when he got through? original — written in.

“Regardless of why it was late, they can’t “I still had time to mail it, but it was getdo anything about it. I had to pay the ting close to the deadline,” the man said. “It interest.” was the beginning of the month. It was at The NYPD and the Postal Inspection Sernight, too late to go to the post office. I figvice both recommend that people using ured, it was a mailbox on Metropolitan Ave- mailboxes should use them as close to the nue in front of a big law office. It’s got rollers last posted pickup time as possible so that and narrow slits. It’ll only be there one night. items are not sitting in a box overnight.

What are the odds of something happening?”

The NYPD also recommends not using He even took the precaution of using a gel them on weekends or holidays. pen, which is recommended as being toughThe police suggest that if at all possible, er for thieves to erase. people can give their outgoing mail to their And still something happened. letter carriers.

“I think people need to know about this.”

Check-writers should use pens with perAnd he is particularly miffed by what manent ink, and should check their account happened with his bank. balances regularly in order to ensure that “I got a call ... They knew something was checks were cashed by those intended to Q wrong. They called me. They were suspi- receive them.

C M SQ page 15 Y K

HOSPICE IS ABOUT LIFE Hospice can be an uncomfortable topic. But the comfort and care it provides can greatly ease sadness, pain and fear during a difficult time. From medical support to peace of mind, understanding what hospice has to offer can help people decide if, and when, it's right for them. Some things you may not know:

1.

2.

3.

It's usually at home.

Comfort, familiarity and the presence of loved ones are everything during these times.

It's typically covered by insurance.

Most patients qualify through Medicaid, Medicare or private insurance.

It can last up to six months.

Many people would benefit by entering hospice earlier.

Northwell.edu/Hospice

5.

It's not just for patients.

6.

Hospice isn't about death.

It's about life.

A hospice team can include doctors, visiting nurses, social workers and other care providers.

Loved ones can receive counseling, learn how to help and much more.

Hospice helps make this difficult time more comfortable, supportive and dignified.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Talking about hospice can be hard.

We're here to help you understand the decisions and choices you may face along the way.

4.

It includes full medical care.

Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

Advertorial

Diabetes event in Woodhaven

Man indicted for hate crime

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, and in order to commemorate the occasion, state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) is hosting an interactive diabetes session on Nov. 8, from 6 to 8 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, located at 84-85 96 St. in Woodhaven.

Cor nell Cooperative Extension, Queens County Farm Museum and Catholic Health/St. Francis Hospital will join forces to create a full range of knowledge, guidance and support, Addabbo’s office said.

The event will see par ticipants engaging in a live cooking demonstration to inspire them to create diabetesfriendly meals.

Furthermore, attendees will get a farming lesson to learn how to cultivate their own harvest of fresh produce. Baskets of freshly grown greens will be available to win, according to Addabbo’s office. “... We aim to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to make informed decisions about your health, while making it a fun, interactive event,” Addabbo said in a statement.

Due to limited seating, district residents should call Addabbo’s office at Q (718) 738-1111 to RSVP.

Gilbert Augustin, the man who allegedly killed Jasmer Singh, 66, after a fender bender on Oct. 19, was arraigned Tuesday, the Queens District Attorney’s Office said.

Augustin, 30, who was driving with a suspended license, was charged in a 20-count indictment with first-degree manslaughter as a hate crime and seconddegree assault as a hate crime, the DA’s Office said.

According to the charges, Singh was driving on the Van Wyck Expressway before colliding with Augustin’s vehicle.

The two men pulled over in front of 87-34 Van Wyck Exwy., near the border of Kew Gardens and Richmond Hill.

Augustin alledgedly approached Singh and engaged in a verbal dispute, repeatedly referring to Singh, a Sikh, as “Turban man,” according to a witness.

Augustin punched Singh three times in the head and face, the charges said, with one punch causing Singh’s turban to fly off his head. He fell and hit his head, suffering a brain injury as a result. He died the next day.

Augustin fled the scene but was caught by police the following day. If convicted, Q he faces up to 25 years in prison.

— Kristen Guglielmo

PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 16

C M SQ page 16 Y K

Conduit-79th sees the light Traffic signals have been installed on either side of the intersection of 79th Street and Conduit Avenue in Ozone Park, part of a greater safety project at the site in progress by the cit y Depar tment of Transportation.

The action comes after outcry from residents for better street safety precautions at

the location, especially following the death of 24-year-old Kimberly Ortega in 2021.

The Ozone Park Residents Block Association plans to host a ribbon cutting with Ortega’s family in attendance once construction on the area is complete, according to group President Sam Esposito.

— Kristen Guglielmo

NEW STUDENT OPEN HOUSES

VIRTUAL ZOOM MEETINGS Middle School High School Monday November 20, 2023 7:00 pm Monday November 20, 2023 6:00 pm

https://zoom.us/j/98163215694?pwd=c1pMTE1WTnBvVDFvUUJY N3FKWnArdz09

https://zoom.us/j/94356732117?pwd=STZOT2 hXbWxBM3JUYTdhUkZXNzRvUT09

Meeting ID: 981 6321 5694 passcode: 937286

Meeting ID: 943 5673 2117 passcode : 156030

Thursday November 30, 2023 6:00 pm For the latest news visit qchron.com

https://zoom.us/j/91368018565?pwd=SjZYWE 92U1hleUizRkc1WWRmQzROUT09

https://zoom.us/j/98175042628?pwd=UkE2RW1MdVpt 0mZNRS8rTDEvVm02dz09

Meeting ID: 913 6801 8565 passcode: 799550

Middle School: Wed., Nov. 15, 2023, 6:00 pm Sat., Nov. 18, 2023 10:00 am

Meeting ID: 981 7504 2628 Passcode ; 048369

IN PERSON

Middle School Highlights • Dance, Soccer, Lacrosse, Basketball Flag Football, Tennis, Baseball, Volleyball • Millennium After School Program • After School Academic Enrichment • Summer Bridge Program

Thursday November 30, 2023 7:00 pm

• Community Service Projects • Farm Trip and College Tours • Gymnastics & Cheerleading • Marine Biology and Oceanography • Robotics and Engineering

To apply: www.myschools.nyc Middle School Students use code 262S High School students should use code Q97X (College Prep) or Q97A (Research Technology and Robotics) Q97B (Data Science)

High School: Wed., Nov. 15, 2023, 7:00 pm Sat., Nov. 18, 2023 12:00 pm

HIGH SCHOOL HIGHLIGHTS

- 100% Graduation Rate - 100% College Acceptance Rate - Advanced Placement Courses: AP Biology, AP Foreign Language, AP Statistics, AP US Government and Politics, AP Psychology, AP Computer Science, AP English Literature, AP English Language, AP US History and AP World History - College Now classes, Internships, Summer Bridge Program, Community Service Projects - PSAL Sports-Baseball, Basketball, Football, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Track, Lacrosse & Volleyball - 9th Grade Crew orientation - Elective Classes: Studio Art, Portfolio Design, Chorus, Instrumental & Marching Band, Guitar, Dance, Fitness, Computer Technology, Performing Arts, Home Economics, PSAT, SAT and ACT Prep, Marine Biology and Robotics - College trips, Advisory, and on-site College Fairs

100-00 BEACH CHANNEL DRIVE, ROCKAWAY PARK, NY 11694 Denise Harper-Richardson, Principal • (718) 634-1970 • CVSR.info

C M SQ page 17 Y K

Heat and Cool Your Home the Better Way The warmer, cooler, easier way to Heat and Cool your home or office.

Today’s Heat Pumps are more Efficient to keep your home, office, or co-operative Comfortable all year long.

Without burning high cost fossil fuels like oil, propane, or natural gas.

Enjoy Savings of 30% to 40% or more.

Zoned Temperature Control: Heat Pumps put You in Control of Heating and Cooling Preferences for the different rooms in Your Home or Office.

Duct or Ductless Systems Available.

Energy Star certifi ed Heat Pump system confi gurations available.

Page 17 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

Heat and cool your home the better way

Affordability: Ask the Professionals at Always on HVAC Check Your Eligibility Now! Find out about 1) Size - Ask which Heat Pump System is right for your home, co-operative, or offi ce.

2) Rebates and Incentives available for your area.

3) Always on HVAC Has and Offers Multiple Financing Options to help you.

Keep your home comfortable all year long with a new heat pump system from Always on HVAC even in a “cold climate”, the cleaner better way to heat and cool your home. Serving all Queens, NYC, Westchester and beyond.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

C M SQ page 18 Y K QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 18

Gov. grants $75M to combat hate crimes

by Kristen Guglielmo PHOTO COURTESY HOWARD BEACH LINDENWOOD CIVIC

Frightful delight with HBL Civic Rain didn’t stop the Howard Beach community from turning out to the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic’s Halloween Haunt and Treat event last Sunday.

Attendees strolled down Cross Bay Boulevard to collect candy and other goodies from tables set up by businesses, organizations and families.

On Facebook, the civic group thanked the public for attending even in the “wacky weather” and went on to write, “Thank you to all of the businesses and groups who braved the ‘storm.’ We loved seeing all of the costumes and kiddies! Looking forward to the holiday season with all of you!”

— Kristen Guglielmo

Associate Editor

In response to the surge of hate crimes and bias incidents in the state in the weeks following the Oct. 7 attacks in Israel, Gov. Hochul on Monday announced a series of actions to deploy “all available resources” to keep New Yorkers safe.

Hochul allotted $50 million for law enforcement agencies across the state to modernize their operations and more effectively solve and prevent crimes, according to a press release from her office. The state Division of Criminal Justice Services is administering the funding, which agencies can seek for a variety of equipment.

Additionally, Hochul gave $25 million to the Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grant program. She directed the DCJS to develop innovations and strategies to incorporate within the SCAHC program, such as increases to the maximum reward and evaluations of deployed protective equipment and technology.

To combat hate crimes in city colleges, Hochul asked retired Judge Jonathan Lippman to conduct reviews of CUNY policies and procedures. The review will include

For the latest news visit qchron.com

WE VAX Get your updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines to protect against current variants.

Talk to your doctor, call 311 or visit nyc.gov/covidvaccine to learn more.

en v e e s u a bec nd young a ople pe healthy ry sick. ve can get

Health

Eric L. Adams Mayor Ashwin Vasan, MD, PhD Commissioner

recommended actions for the CUNY Board of Trustees to bolster its antidiscrimination policies to help protect Jewish students and faculty.

State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Whitestone), chair of the Higher Education Committee, told the Chronicle the reviews are a good step to “investigate allegations and clear the air,” also noting that “Lippman has a good, fair reputation.”

Stavisky mentioned having raised the issue with CUNY on numerous occasions in the past, recalling that in February of this year, she asked CUNY Chancellor Félix Matos Rodríguez what was being done about the anti-Semitism on various campuses.

“He pointed out a program at Queens College called the Center for Racial and Religious Understanding,” she said.

Hochul also gave $700,000 to expand police social media analysis to identify threats and criminal activity, and announced that the Division of Human Rights Hate and Bias Prevention Unit will be offering “community circles” to discuss how neighbors have been affected by such events, and to Q help each other cope and heal.

C M SQ page 19 Y K

We’re Here For You and Your Family!

Don Anthony has performed as Elvis for 23 years — and is still going strong

Attend a FREE WEBINAR and receive a FREE CONSULTATION! (Worth $400) “HOW DO I PROTECT MY HOME AND MY LIFE SAVINGS?”

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Monday, November 13th, 2023 at 4:00pm Thursday, November 16th, 2023 at 1:00pm

Our Practice Areas are: Elder Law & Estate Planning Thursday, November 30 th, 2023 at 4:00pm Probate Discover how legal planning Guardianship is different with my offi ce!

Divorce Go to www.frankbrunolaw.com and click on Attend Webinar Real Estate Guardianship Process from Incapacity to Court Appointment

69-09 Myrtle Avenue, Glendale, NY 11385

Don Anthony has performed as Elvis in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and even Las Vegas. DONANTHONYMUSIC.COM PHOTO

For more information: 718-418-5000

www.frankbrunolaw.com

older women get starstruck seeing Anthony at work, he said he keeps the burning love onstage only.

“I’m married, and my wife comes with me to a lot of the jobs. I always tell her that whatever I do on stage, I’m not like that in person.

I’m not Elvis at home. I’m not Elvis when I walk around. I’m me. But when an agent taught me how to do Elvis, he said, ‘When you’re on stage, you are him.’”

Business for Anthony has picked up as a result of last year’s Elvis biopic starring Austin Butler, as it likely has for other Elvis impersonators, too. But Anthony maintains he’s a top hound dog.

“There’s a lot of guys that do it that maybe look a little like him, but they can’t sing like him. And there’s some guys that are very good,” he said. “And I would say I’m one of Q the better ones.”

Huge Selection of Colors and Styles!

Next Day Installation Available!

Shop In-Store or We’ll Come To You! We Sell and Install All Types of Flooring

Only

718-529-9700

FREE

BURGLARY • FIRE • INTERCOM • SURVEILLANCE CENTRAL STATION MONITORING

“Custom Designed Security Systems To Fit Any Budget” CAMERA SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS WITH DIGITAL RECORDING AND REMOTE VIEWING AVAILABLE

©2017 M1P • BALS-057332

Servicing All Your Security Needs Residential/Commercial

$

1

75

per sq. ft.

DELIVERY, PADDING AND INSTALLATION INCLUDED!

SHOP AT HOME SERVICE!

om We C

Yo e To

u!

FREE

Measuring!

Day, Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

We Offer EMERGENCY Floor Restoration Services!

COMMERCIAL CARPET

AND FLOORING 718-366-5001 • 212-766-3774 516-561-3222

Only $

139

per sq. ft.

INSTALLED WITH PADDING!

65-04 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385 6 www.baycarpet.com Major Credit Cards Accepted w

©2023 M1P • BACA-082564

97-49 WOODHAVEN BLVD. OZONE PARK

For the latest news visit qchron.com

PLUSH CARPET SPECIAL!

SERVING THE C OMMUNITY FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS!

NY State Dept. of State Lic. #12000295695

©2023 M1P • FRAB-082609

“I had one lady crying her eyes out, holding my arm. She must have been about 80.

And she says, ‘I love you so much, Elvis. I missed you so much.’ And she was crying. I felt so touched that she was so touched by seeing Elvis.”

Don Anthony, a Howard Beach resident, has been working as an Elvis impersonator for 23 years and still enjoys it just as much as when he began.

“My mother loved Elvis. She just adored Elvis,” he gushed. “And she’s the one that got me into this, because she was always playing his music.”

Anthony said that every time Elvis’ movies were on when he was a kid, he was glued to the television, all shook up watching the performer ooze charm and talent.

“A lot of entertainers that do Elvis are influenced by the man and his charisma and his appeal and his love for people,” Anthony said. “I think there’s a mystique about him.”

Anthony’s work as The King has taken him all over — through bookings on his website, donanthonymusic.com, he’s performed over 1,000 shows. He’s been all over New York, New Jersey, Connecticut — and even Las Vegas, where Elvis once had a residency.

In describing his favorite performance as Elvis, Anthony recalled a time he played Westbury Music Fair on Long Island.

“I was backstage and there were 1,200 people out there,” he said. “And I heard the DJ from a radio station out there saying, ‘You people are in for a big surprise, because this man is going to rock this place. He’s an excellent Elvis entertainer, and you’re going to love him.’ And then I came out on the stage and the crowd went wild. And I think that was my biggest moment.”

In addition to being an iconic performer, Elvis was a ladies’ man, and while some

Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

Howard Beach man is the ‘King’ of Queens

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 20

C M SQ page 20 Y K

QCFM DETERIORATING UNDER

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

Past and present employees of the Queens County Farm Museum say the once-prized borough institution has gone to seed under the leadership of its executive director of five years, Jennifer Walden Weprin, as her demeanor and lack of understanding and knowledge of agriculture have led to high turnover and damage to the farm.

Under Walden Weprin’s tenure, say the employees, gardens have become unkempt, animals have suffered and morale among staff has plummeted. Employees were denied cost-of-living pay hikes for several years.

The situation was relayed through the accounts of those employees who, among a number of the farm’s roughly 50 staff members and their predecessors, shared their experiences at a farm Board of Directors meeting in July. The Chronicle has obtained copies of their testimony and has spoken further with nine of the past and present employees, all of whom were granted anonymity due to fear of retaliation.

Since that meeting, employees say, the board has been weighing the future of Walden Weprin’s contract, which expires at the end of the year.

“Even though I quietly may not have agreed with some things Amy Boncardo did, I respected her as the then-director and had many friendly conversations with her,” Employee No. 1 wrote in a statement to the board, referring to the QCFM’s longtime former leader. “I cannot say that now ... To this day I doubt [Walden Weprin] even knows my name.” Employee No. 1 was not the only one who told the Chronicle the latter.

The Chronicle contacted Walden Weprin and her lawyer for comment early last week, before initially publishing this story online last Thursday, and was referred to two farm associates who could answer questions about some of the agricultural concerns raised and who could speak positively to Walden Weprin’s character, as well as the farm’s spokesperson, Crystine Nicholas.

In an email to the Chronicle, Nicholas wrote that the farm’s statement was “a response to the barrage of allegations from unnamed sources and most likely disgruntled employees who may not embrace the changes needed to make the QCFM the gem it is today, the most visited cultural institution in Queens.”

The Farm Museum was established in 1975, two years after Jim Trent — who serves as president of the Board of Directors to this day — and then-state Sen. Frank Padavan saved the site from development, doing so in part by getting the Adriance Farmhouse landmark status (most of the land itself became city parkland). The oldest building on the farm’s property, for years the house has been a main attraction for visitors, who had the chance to tour the site and to see 18th-century farm equipment up close every weekend. It also houses the farm’s education department.

While on the outside, the farmhouse may look the same, much has changed. The education space on the first floor is being used primarily as storage. The agriculture department took over the second floor after it was moved out of the barn, employees say.

Tours are no longer offered every weekend, but only on select

Workers decry unkempt grounds, ED’s

Former Employee No. 5 says the pigs at the farm have become obese to the extent they cannot see. At top right is Pumpkin in December 2021 and at top left is Spice in November 2021; SOURCE PHOTOS below them are the two pigs now. days throughout the year (they were canceled during the pandemic; the old schedule was never restored). The same can be said of the farm as a whole — one does not need to look that far below the surface to see that things have changed.

That is what motivated employees to speak up. “I’m not doing this because I have a grudge or vendetta — I’m doing this because I love the farm, and it’s painful to see what’s going on,” Employee No. 1 told the Chronicle. “Despite the other things about bad management and how we haven’t been treated the way we all deserve, for me, I think this is the beginning of the end.”

In Nicholas’ lengthy statement to the paper, responding to several allegations against Walden Weprin, Nicholas wrote, “Over the last five years, under the leadership of Executive Director Jennifer Walden-Weprin, the Queens County Farm Museum has formalized new policies and protocols, stabilized finances, hired independent auditors, and modernized antiquated systems despite Covid business interruptions which has all contributed to the Farm becoming the most visited cultural institution in Queens. QCFM has undergone the largest agricultural expansion in over 50 years, providing greater and more equitable access to healthy foods throughout the region. Through all of this, QCFM is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion and access. QCFM’s guiding principle is that the public should see themselves in farm programs, staff and leadership. That is truly how the organization can best serve NYC and, of course, Queens, the most diverse borough in the world.”

Though the farm says its apiary is the largest single one in the five boroughs, and received a grant to have 50 hives as part of that, there are only eight hives at SOURCE PHOTO present.

Who is Jennifer Walden Weprin?

Walden Weprin is well connected. She is married to former Assemblyman and Councilman Mark Weprin, who, along with current Assemblyman and ex-Councilman David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows), is the son of the late Speaker of the Assembly Saul Weprin. She became executive director in October 2018 after wrapping up a two-year stint as director of cultural affairs and tourism for then-Borough President Melinda Katz. Before that, she led the marketing departments at the Louis Armstrong House

Museum, the Great Neck Arts Center and Queens Theatre.

From day one, employees say, her marketing background has been central to Walden Weprin’s approach, and was even exciting to some. But the image of the farm she produced was not necessarily an accurate one.

The farm refers to itself on its website as home to the largest single apiary in New York City. Walden Weprin has as well, even doing so in an interview with the Chronicle earlier this year. But despite partnering with Cornell University’s Dyce Lab for Honey Bee Studies in 2020 to put together the largest one in the Big Apple, which was to be composed of 50 hives with more than 2 million bees, according to Employee No. 2, the farm has never had more than 26, though Andrew Coté, a beekeeper who works with the farm, disputed that, saying there were 46 at one point.

Both Coté and Employee No. 2 said, however, that the number now is down to eight. The accompanying translucent display, covered in old honey, cannot be seen through anymore, photos from employees show.

Why there were never 50 hives is unclear, though Coté said, “Fifty was probably the number that we were aiming for, but it’s true, we never got above 46.” Coté said many hives were removed from the site this summer so as to tamper down a disease that was spreading among them, and that he expects to bring them back from his own farm in Connecticut in March.

“It was the single largest apiary for about three years, but we got pretty blasted this year with winter losses,” he told the Chronicle. Asked about the claim again later, he said, “I don’t think you’re told a lie — I think maybe we can update the website.”

Coté is not a farm employee; he told the Chronicle he volunteers at the museum, in part because he is grateful he was allowed to store bees there during the pandemic, when many city buildings wanted beekeepers to remove their hives from their property. “They’re legit — honestly, I wouldn’t work with [QCFM] if they weren’t legit,” he said. “ I don’t know Jennifer so well. But she’s been cool with me. She gives me a free hand with the bees, she recognizes that I know that, and lets me do it.”

That is not how other present and past employees at the farm characterize Walden Weprin — far from it.

“She would see an opportunity for fundraising or for publicity, and say, ‘We want that,’ and then try to reverse engineer whatever it was we were doing at the farm to fit that,” Former Employee No. 1 said.

That ex-farm worker pointed to the 2019 rebranding of the former Children’s Carnival as an example. “She wanted a more agricultural sounding name, and because the Children’s Carnival happened in the orchard, she wanted to call it an Apple Blossom Festival,” Former Employee No. 1 said. “Well, the apple trees don’t blossom until a full month after that carnival.”

The same employee said Walden Weprin did not seem very interested in the farm itself. “She was very engaged in the world of public relations, and networking and political connections, and very interested in leveraging those connections to raise the profile of the farm, which is all great,” Former Employee No. 1 said.

“But that was all she was interested in doing.”

In fact, several workers said they rarely saw Walden Weprin around the property. And that was true even before the pandemic began, Employee No. 2 said. Former Employee No. 1 recalled the executive director eating alone during the first holiday party under her leadership. Employee No. 1 remembered leading a session with students shortly before then, during which Walden Weprin came to observe, unannounced. “I kept thinking to myself, ‘Oh, is that the new director? I’m not really sure. Is that a parent? Should I tell them to get out?’” Employee No. 1 said.

When Walden Weprin is at the farm, often, it’s when press or VIPs are, too, the workers said. “We’d see her when she was doing her little press conferences,” Employee No. 1 said. “That’s when you’d see her — when she’s getting pictures taken.” When the press joins her at the farm, Walden Weprin is careful about

C M SQ page 21 Y K

behavior; spox calls them ‘disgruntled’

The Children’s Garden has been largely neglected, staff say. At left is a bed of carrots in 2018; at right, there is nothing plantSOURCE PHOTOS ed there in 2023. ing for more farmland to grow more things to try to make more money,” said Former Employee No. 4. “We felt like if that was the case, you could have made a lot more if you took care of what you had, and actually were able to sell everything you had. Most of that produce wasn’t good.”

Similarly, Employee Nos. 1 and 3 said several healthy trees toward the back of the property were cut down earlier this year; because the land is owned by the Department of Parks and Recreation, the agency must sign off on those removals. City records do not list any such permits. Employee No. 1 filed a 311 complaint in May, which the Parks Department responded to two weeks ago, saying it would investigate the allegation. Nicholas’ statement did not address the allegation when the Chronicle asked.

Several employees suggested that Walden Weprin is not concerned with the caliber of the farm’s offerings, be it produce or the experience itself. “We’re doing a unique thing — we are a historical site, we interpret it that way. This is a chance to broaden horizons in a very unique way, which is what we enjoy doing,” Employee No. 1 said. “She seems to have the attitude that anybody can do the job and to get in as many people, as much as possible, and it’s all window dressing, and it’s all quantity over quality.”

On some occasions, that has come at the expense of the farm’s livestock, the workers say. Former Employee No. 5 had expressed concerns that the farm was adding too much livestock, concerns which the employee said were relayed to Walden Weprin. That included a second flock of sheep and additional chickens in early 2022, the latter of which had been brought in so as to not lose egg production later in the season. “I explained in emails that we were moving too quickly, as far as taking on new animals, that we shouldn’t ramp up into so many new animals,” Former Employee No. 5 told the Chronicle. “We were doubling almost the amount of chickens we were getting, but not making any sort of changes to staff or anything, not hiring anyone else.”

Introducing a larger number of chickens posed problems for farmers, who traditionally cycled different coops in and out as some stopped laying eggs. Adding new chickens — and larger groups of them — threw off the cycle.

But on top of “rushing” the additional chickens in, Former Employee No. 5 said, the birds arrived at the farm before the last frost of the winter. The young chicks are very sensitive to cold, and their coops were not designed to keep them warm when it freezes, the worker said. So when it froze their first night on the farm, things went south.

“We had the potential of losing all of the chickens that we had just bought and brought on,” Former Employee No. 5 said. To keep the chickens warm, Morales, the agriculture director, stayed late into the night, lining the coops with hay bales — hay bales that were needed at other parts of the farm the next day.

The chickens survived.

Asked about the incident, Morales disputed that the chickens’ structures were not warm enough, though he did not deny that he lined them with hay. He said that while it was cold, he believed the chickens were old enough to handle the weather.

Walden Weprin has also cut corners when it comes to animal continued on page 22

For the latest news visit qchron.com

we both want to do, which is make the farm a better farm and who speaks with the media and what is said.

Former Employee No. 2 recalled telling a reporter (who more professional environment.”

Ed Villar, operations director at the farm, spoke positively of approached with Walden Weprin) in 2021 that not all the produce sold at the farm stand is grown at the QCFM — information For- Walden Weprin in a prepared statement to the Chronicle, saying mer Employee No. 2 would volunteer “to anyone who comes to she expanded its farm stand locations and hired a staffer dedicated to visitor experience. Villar was hired in June 2021, replacing the farm stand.”

Walden Weprin was not pleased. “I could clearly see Jennifer longtime operations chief Gary Mitchell, who could not be roll her eyes and act in an exasperated manner to imply that what reached for comment. “Jennifer’s determination, integrity, work I was saying was not appropriate and she steered the conversa- ethic and ability to think outside the box has made the farm work tion away ... It made me feel like I should have not been so truth- much more efficiently and staff more productively,” Villar wrote ful with media presence, something that I find to feel wrong,” in an email to the paper.

Former Employee No. 2 wrote in a statement upon leaving Meanwhile, back at the farm ...

QCFM. It was also shared at the July board meeting.

Several employees who spoke with the Chronicle and made When, later the same day, Former Employee No. 2 approached Walden Weprin about the interaction, she told the staffer that it statements to the board said repeatedly that Walden Weprin was inappropriate to approach her about the incident and said the “doesn’t get” or “doesn’t understand” the farm. That was a employee did not have the necessary “media training” to speak phrase used to mean one of two things, the first being that, in with the reporter anyway. That was the worker’s first one-on-one their view, Walden Weprin does not grasp the agricultural logisinteraction with Walden Weprin, despite having worked at the tics required to execute her ideas. “[We’d say,] ‘If you want to do this thing, there are these, farm for more than a year.

“I’ve never felt that way before in my life,” Former Employee these and these problems we have to figure out, these are the No. 2 told the Chronicle. “She, like, threatened to fire me the resources we’re going to need to accomplish this and these are first time I ever spoke with her in a conversation. It was the most the stakeholders we’re going to talk to,’” Former Employee No. 1 said. “When we would try to discuss with her strategic planning bizarre thing.”

Former Employee No. 2 also said the farm advertised for issues — whether it was, ‘Oh, there’s a stakeholder that can’t get involved,’ or ‘actually, it was always months that the farm stand took EBT done this way,’ whatever it may be — benefits, even as its new payment system she took it as almost a challenge to her could not process them. “We had to turn authority.” people away,” the ex-worker said.

Over time, Walden Weprin’s attitude Despite mentioning the problem to the weighed on employees. “It always just higher-ups, it was not resolved in the felt like she was just using the farm for employee’s remaining time at the farm, some political agenda,” Former Employwhich ended soon after the incident with ee No. 4 told the Chronicle. “After some Walden Weprin. The statement from time, you could kind of tell how everyNicholas, the PR representative, did not one who had to work with her kind of address the concern despite an inquiry changed. They were not excited to come from the Chronicle. in — they felt very put off by her.” The And Former Employee No. 2 is not ex-employee said that led some staff to the only one who wrote a letter voicing leave. concerns prior to leaving the farm. Much More staff members were let go in like Former Employee No. 2, Former 2020 due to Covid-related cuts; while Employee No. 3 wrote upon departing in some roles were temporarily cut, not 2021, “I was told by [Walden Weprin] on everyone returned that summer. Though numerous occasions to ‘remember my the museum was closed to the public place’ when attempting to discuss new programming and give perspective on Jennifer Walden Weprin has served as the during the height of the pandemic, some the capabilities of the department with Queens County Farm Museum’s executive workers continued to care for the farm, the resources given.”

FILE PHOTO even those who might not normally do director for five years. so, as they were short-handed, several “She often created a toxic and hostile work environment, one where I felt I was not always treated with employees said.

“We noticed a lot of the plant beds and where we were growrespect,” Former Employee No. 3 wrote. “She was often demeaning were not taken care of — a lot of things were dying, a lot of ing, condescending and overall unkind.”

Former Employee No. 3 left the farm, “somewhat reluctantly. I weeds were just overgrown,” Former Employee No. 4 told the Chronicle. “We didn’t blame the farmers — it was just too much love this place!” the letter reads.

“If I could, I would have loved to continue to be part of the for the short staff that we had.”

But then, that ex-employee said, Walden Weprin began applyQueens Farm indefinitely. Unfortunately, I am suffering greatly working for Jennifer Walden, and it is with confidence that I say ing for grants so the staff could farm other parts of the property. to you all that it is because of her that I have chosen to end my “We couldn’t even manage the land we had,” said Former Employee No. 4. On top of that, the ex-staffer said, the land tenure at Queens Farm.”

“No one should be treated the way Jennifer Walden treats her Walden Weprin sought to farm — and ultimately did farm — employees, and I am confident that under her tenure, Queens was not suitable for growing. “[It] wasn’t land that was adequate for agriculture — the soil Farm will continue to lose valuable employees, and thereby sufwasn’t right, and to get the soil right, it was going to take years of fer as a result.”

Danny Morales, agriculture director at the QCFM as of Janu- maintenance to get things fixed. And especially if we’re sustainary 2022 and who was put in touch with the Chronicle after the able, it takes much longer,” Former Employee No. 4 said. “We paper contacted Walden Weprin, her lawyer and her spokesper- were all very confused as to why she would try to get this addison, sees it differently. He said of Walden Weprin, “We’ve had a tional land on the grounds to farm when it really wasn’t suitable good rapport, if that’s the word. She’s supported my ideas, and for farming.”

The theory? “A lot of us kind of assumed she was only pushI’ve been able to support her vision and work together to do what

Page 21 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

WALDEN WEPRIN, STAFF SAY

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 22

C M SQ page 22 Y K

Queens Farm crumbling under Walden Weprin’s tenure, staff say continued from page 21 tion. Nicholas’ statement did not address the board in July — that Walden Weprin the matter when asked. feed, according to Former Employee No. 4, who said the execu- “doesn’t get” the farm, meaning she does Others did not ask for cost-of-living tive director switched out the hay goats and sheep were fed for a not understand its central purpose: to raises for years, only to be shot down cheaper, lower-nutrient alternative, the same kind the farm sells engage visitors with and educate them on when they did. Even though Employee No. agricultural practices and their history in to visitors to give the animals.

1 had not received a raise since 2017, when “We noticed a big difference, because the animals hated it — the World’s Borough. one was requested earlier this year, a “I don’t think she understands the misit was scratchy, it was hard, it was dry, it was difficult to manage, supervisor initially responded, “We are it cut up your hands — it was horrible to work with, and the ani- sion statement, or if she does, she doesn’t looking for a holistic solution to this.” mals just didn’t like it,” Former Employee No. 4 said. “It was care about it,” said Employee No. 3.

Around the same time, employees hard for educators or the public to now interact with the animals, “There’s a definite divide in attitude began comparing notes: They realized because the animals didn’t want to deal with it ... We did notice a between some of us and the rest of the none of them were “even close to what the drop in their weight.” While the goats and sheep eventually took people at the farm. We understand the industry standards are,” Employee No. 1 to the new hay, Former Employee No. 4 said Walden Weprin was mission statement, and we respect it. She said. not receptive to staff members’ concerns; when asked, Nicholas doesn’t — she’s got her eye on something “We had to beg, essentially, for else, and she’s very politically well condid not address the concern in her statement. crumbs,” Employee No. 3 said.

Former Employee No. 5’s role was eliminated in spring 2022, nected. It’s all about the surface.

That led six employees to strike for the “We’re not cohesive anymore — we but the ex-employee has visited since — and was upset to see the better part of a month this summer, state of the farm and its livestock, especially the pigs. According used to be a family.” demanding cost-of-living wage increases Part of that division exists because to Former Employee No. 5, KuneKune pigs — the breed that lives at the farm — are prone to becoming obese, and therefore, Walden Weprin has at times hired people After employees read their testimony to the and merit raises, in addition to job evaluatheir food intake needs to be monitored carefully, and they who have personal connections to her, board in July, some signs were added next tions. They returned to work when the should be eating mostly grass and some grain with not too many according to employees. One key employ- to overgrown gardens that read in part, QCFM agreed to raise their hourly pay by food scraps. That appears not to have happened; Former Employ- ee is Walden Weprin’s neighbor and close “Pardon our appearance.”

SOURCE PHOTO 25 percent, effective July 1, Employees No. 2 said. That brought the lowest of their ee No. 5 saw an Instagram post from the farm in summer 2022 in friend, according to Employee No. 2. The which one of the pigs was so big that she could not see under her same worker said Walden Weprin also hired someone else who is wages to $20 an hour, even though the group had been aiming eyelids; the ex-employee even went so far as to send a message in dating the first person’s son. Meanwhile, staff were not given the for $25, which, according to an analysis by Employee No. 2, is chance to apply for the role before anyone was hired, current still lower than other comparable institutions throughout the five response to the post saying the pigs were becoming too large. boroughs, Nassau and Suffolk counties. Asked why the group When Former Employee No. 5 last visited the farm in April, employees say.

Employee No. 2 once applied for the vacant education director settled for less than they wanted, Employee No. 2 said simply, things had not improved. “They were confused — they’re both completely blind,” Former Employee No. 5 said. “They know me position. When asked about the role, Walden Weprin said she’d “We love our jobs.”

But after the employees got that raise, as did staff in two other — they couldn’t see me. When they heard me, they knew it was let the employee know. She never did. The education department has been without a director for more than a year, employees say; departments, according to Employee No. 2, those who went on me, but they definitely couldn’t see me.”

Asked about that, Morales said the pigs were not obese. “Pigs department staff were told to report to four different people in a strike were told they could no longer work events at the farm, which had allowed them to log a significant number of hours — are pigs, and they eat and they get fat,” he said. He also did not four-month period.

In the process, employees say the education department has and therefore earn more money — fairly quickly. Employees No. think they were blind, and suggested that perhaps it looked like become a shell of its former self. New educators previously 1, 2 and 3 all characterized that as being retaliatory. At times, they couldn’t see in certain photos.

Walden Weprin also is not letting employees maintain the received several weeks of on-the-ground training before leading however, Employee No. 2 has been asked to work events due to farm’s five gardens, which became overgrown and filled with any tour groups alone; now, they get only a few days. Employee staffing issues.

The three also learned that several newer employees in anothpoison ivy as Covid-19 restrictions put a stop to work being done No. 3 was adamant that that’s insufficient.

“They’ve also been giving wrong informa- er department were given $500 bonuses for their work this sumwith school groups, who previously got a handstion, the newer people especially, because there’s mer, even as those who went on strike for raises were among the on learning experience — even though employno standard for training,” Employee No. 3 said. very limited number of employees who maintained the grounds ees offered to do so for free, they say.

“They could say anything, virtually, and I’ve and crops at the height of the pandemic. hy is she “We can no longer go in the Children’s GarAsked about those wage and bonus concerns and allegations heard some pretty wild claims, as far as factual den, the Herb Garden — there’s no Butterfly still here?” information about [the farm].” of retaliation, Nicholas’ statement only addressed finances for Garden anymore. We can’t take the kids there Walden Weprin has said in emails to staff that one department: agriculture. “With respect to workforce, agriculanymore,” Employee No. 2 told the Chronicle.

— Employee No. 2 the education department and its structure will ture is typically a seasonal industry, and the Farm has been “So you’re not only not utilizing those spaces, be “reimagined” as the farm prepares for its new developing its Green Workforce Training program so that the you’re not learning anything anymore as an educator, but you’re taking the kids past these crappy looking areas.” education center — a long proposed project still in the works. team can leverage their work experience to build their careers in After that complaint was made during the July board meeting, Nicholas’ statement did not address the education department at agriculture and the burgeoning green workforce in NYC and beyond,” it reads. “In 2019, QCFM had 10 staff in the agricultursigns have been added to those gardens that read, “Pardon our all.

Meanwhile, the Board of Directors has also seen significant al department and 20 in 2023, doubling the size. Total compensaappearance.”

The animals have not been rotated around the grounds recent- turnover; seven of its 17 members joined in 2018 or later; Walden tion over that same time period has also increased by nearly 60 percent, and the Farm prides itself on supporting and growing its ly, Employee No. 2 said. Employee No. 1 explained that that’s Weprin was hired in October 2018. diverse and experienced workforce.” Those metrics include fullnecessary both so that they don’t ingest parasites and so the land time, part-time and seasonal workers, Nicholas clarified.

Show me the money does not become overgrown. “It also controls the foliage, and “Change is never easy but was necessary to ensure the farm Both past and present employees say they have asked for raisallows foliage that they’ve already grazed on to grow back so that we don’t deplete it, it’s much much healthier for them,” the work- es or have asked for raises on behalf of a division of farm staff, operates to its highest standards and continues to serve the public er said. Morales claimed the animals are rotated “on a certain some as early as 2019, and were denied them. The requests as it has for over 325 years,” Nicholas’ statement concluded.

Now, the board must decide whether to renew Walden included both cost-of-living and merit increases. Employee No. 2 basis.”

In her statement, Nicholas wrote of the agricultural conditions even recalled being with a co-worker when they walked in on a Weprin’s contract; it held its first meeting since July last Thurson the farm, “The health and welfare of the Farm’s animals are of conversation between the ex-education director, Ali Abate, and day, Oct. 26. The Chronicle contacted several members of the paramount concern and QCFM is proud that as of its latest the key employee who lives by Walden Weprin, during which board for comment for this story; while neither members Neal inspection in June 2023, the animals were found to be healthy, Abate told the person that staff’s hourly rates were too low. In Vichinsky nor John Sandmann responded to the Chronicle’s free of disease and the staff was commended for the quality of rebutting the employees’ July grievances, Walden Weprin wrote inquiry, three of their peers, Paul DiBenedetto, Doris Bodine and care provided. One of several changes the Farm implemented in an email to staff in August that, among other things, Abate Nyisha Howell, said they were unable to comment. Longtime was closing the commercial petting zoo in 2020, which may have had not recommended staff raises. Abate could not be reached board member Christina Wilkinson referred the Chronicle to Trent, the board president, for comment; he did not respond to brought in revenue, but was not optimizing the health and well- for comment.

Former Employee No. 3 recalled having asked Walden Weprin the Chronicle’s inquiries, either. An attorney representing the ness of the animals and the agricultural ecosystem. However, revenue has exceeded past years even without the commercial many times for increased compensation in light of an increased board did not respond to the Chronicle’s comment request.

Employees say conditions have largely remained the same petting zoo, due to a 58 percent increase in public programming workload. “On every occasion, nothing has come of it,” Former since they spoke at the board’s last meeting. In an email to Trent, and introducing an annual gala which has also expanded support Employee No. 3 wrote in the parting letter.

Meanwhile, the nonprofit’s annual 990 filings show Walden Employee No. 2 said, “We have supplied so much information of QCFM.” Nicholas said the farm’s veterinarian does those inspections “regularly,” but did not specify how often when Weprin was compensated $125,000 in fiscal year 2019, and that outlines Jennifer’s many failures ... and yet she remains on $132,308 in fiscal year 2020 — a $7,308 raise. In fiscal year the property, making us uncomfortable, dividing the staff ... Why asked.

Q Other times, employees say — both to the Chronicle and to 2021, however, she was compensated $127,500, a $4,808 reduc- is she still here?”

For the latest news visit qchron.com

“W

C M SQ page 23 Y K Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

² ÛÝÐÛÌÔÏ ÎÌÝÏ ÑÚÝ ÓÐÌ×ßÓä ÒÝÚÎÐÝÔÐÞ ÌÙÏ ØÚÝÐ

ÅÓÌß Þ ÌÙ ÐÌÞä#ßÚ# ÏÔÒÐÞß ÎÚÙÎÐÛß

MEDICAID MEDICARE

We get it — Medicare can be complicated.

If you have Medicare and Medicaid coverage, you may need more from your plan. With an ²ÐßÙÌ\ µàÌ× ¶×ÔÒÔÍ×Ð ÄÛÐÎÔÌ× ¿ÐÐÏÞ Á×ÌÙ (µ#Ä¿Á) äÚà ÎÌÙ ÒÐß ÌÏÏÔßÔÚÙÌ× ÍÐÙÐòßÞ And a dedicated care team to help you manage your care and get the most from your plan. Á×àÞ äÚà âÚÙ ß ×ÚÞÐ ÌÙä ÚÑ äÚàÝ ¾ÐÏÔÎÌÔÏ ÍÐÙÐòßÞ ¸Ðß ÍÐÙÐòßÞ ×ÔÖÐ

Extra ³ÐÙÐòßÞ ´ÌÝÏ

Dental coverage

ÁÝÐÞÎÝÔÛßÔÚÙ ÏÝàÒÞ

ÇÔÞÔÚÙ coverage

´Ì×× àÞ ßÚ ×ÐÌÝÙ ØÚÝÐ We can help make sure you have the coverage you want.

1-833-771-8314 (TTY: 711) | ²ÐßÙ̾ÐÏÔÎÌÝÐ ÎÚØ*µÄ¿Á´ÌÝÐ` 8 AM–8 PM, 7 days a week. A licensed agent will answer your questions.

Aetna Medicare is a HMO, PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Our DSNPs also have contracts with State Medicaid programs. Enrollment in our plans depends on contract renewal. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. To send a complaint to Aetna, call the Plan or the number on your member ID card. To send a complaint to Medicare, call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048), 24 hours a day/7 ÏÌäÞ Ì âÐÐÖ) ºÑ äÚàÝ ÎÚØÛ×ÌÔÙß ÔÙáÚ×áÐÞ Ì ÍÝÚÖÐÝ ÚÝ ÌÒÐÙß ÍÐ ÞàÝÐ ßÚ ÔÙÎ×àÏÐ ßÓÐ ÙÌØÐ ÚÑ ßÓÐ ÛÐÝÞÚÙ âÓÐÙ ò×ÔÙÒ äÚàÝ ÒÝÔÐáÌÙÎÐ ºÑ äÚàÝ Û×ÌÙ Þ ¶ãßÝÌ ³ÐÙÐòßÞ ´ÌÝÏ ÔÙÎ×àÏÐÞ ÝÚ××ÚáÐÝ ÌÙä àÙàÞÐÏ ÌØÚàÙß âÔ×× ÝÚ×× ÚáÐÝ ÔÙßÚ ßÓÐ ÙÐãß ØÚÙßÓ ÅÓÐ ØÚÙßÓ×ä ÌØÚàÙß ÎÌÙ ÍÐ ÝÚ××ÐÏ ÚáÐÝ ßÓÝÚàÒÓ ßÓÐ ÐÙÏ ÚÑ ßÓÐ Û×ÌÙ äÐÌÝ Íàß âÔ×× ÙÚß ÎÌÝÝä ÚáÐÝ ÔÙßÚ ßÓÐ ÙÐãß Û×ÌÙ äÐÌÝ ¶×ÔÒÔÍÔ×Ôßä ÑÚÝ ßÓÐ ¾ÚÏÐ× ³ÐÙÐòß ÚÝ ÃÐâÌÝÏ ÌÙÏ ºÙÎÐÙßÔáÐ (ú) ÁÝÚÒÝÌØÞ àÙÏÐÝ ßÓÐ ÇÌ×àÐ#³ÌÞÐÏ ºÙÞàÝÌÙÎÐ µÐÞÔÒÙ (dzºµ) ¾ÚÏÐ× ÔÞ ÙÚß ÌÞÞàÝÐÏ ÌÙÏ âÔ×× ÍÐ ÏÐßÐÝØÔÙÐÏ Íä ²ÐßÙÌ ÌÑßÐÝ ÐÙÝÚ××ØÐÙß ÍÌÞÐÏ ÚÙ ÝÐ×ÐáÌÙß ÎÝÔßÐÝÔÌ (Ð Ò Î×ÔÙÔÎÌ× ÏÔÌÒÙÚÞÐÞ eligibility criteria, participation in a disease state management program). Participating health care providers are independent contractors and are ÙÐÔßÓÐÝ ÌÒÐÙßÞ ÙÚÝ ÐØÛ×ÚäÐÐÞ ÚÑ ²ÐßÙÌ ÅÓÐ ÌáÌÔ×ÌÍÔ×Ôßä ÚÑ ÌÙä ÛÌÝßÔÎà×ÌÝ ÛÝÚáÔÏÐÝ ÎÌÙÙÚß ÍÐ ÒàÌÝÌÙßÐÐÏ ÌÙÏ ÛÝÚáÔÏÐÝ ÙÐßâÚÝÖ ÎÚØÛÚÞÔßÔÚÙ ÔÞ ÞàÍÕÐÎß ßÚ ÎÓÌÙÒÐ ÅÓÐ ÑÚÝØà×ÌÝä ÛÝÚáÔÏÐÝ ÌÙÏ*ÚÝ ÛÓÌÝØÌÎä ÙÐßâÚÝÖ ØÌä ÎÓÌÙÒÐ Ìß ÌÙä ßÔØÐ ÊÚà âÔ×× ÝÐÎÐÔáÐ ÙÚßÔÎÐ âÓÐÙ ÙÐÎÐÞÞÌÝä [`^`a ²ÐßÙÌ ºÙÎ

Ê^^^_ acbba `^`b ¾

ad^f_ `^`a#__#^`

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Don’t miss Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) from October 15, 2023, to December 7, 2023.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 24

C M SQ page 24 Y K

Three vying for 29th District Council seat Schulman facing challenges from Maio, Singh in Nov. 7 election

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The ballot for the 29th City Council District will have three familiar names on Nov. 7, with Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) being challenged by Republican and Conservative Danniel Maio and Common Sense Party candidate Sukhi Singh, the latter of whom lost to Schulman in a three-way Democratic primary in June.

The election is taking place two years, rather than four, after the last Council election because of the mandatory redistricting that takes place after every U.S. Census.

Schulman, who serves as chair of the Council’s Health Committee, made healthcare her signature issue when campaigning two years go, and has done so this time around.

She has cited the recent commitment of $4 million in city funding for emergency room modernization at Long Island Jewish Forest Hills as an example of expanding hospital capacity in a borough that has lost multiple hospitals in the last two decades.

On eduction, Schulman wants to see increased funding overall for the Department of Eduction and smaller class sizes. And she wants the DOE to spend more of its classroom

budgets on art and music. family came to the United States Schulman also favors having from India when he was 14, works the city take control of buses and in finance. subways from the Metropolitan Not a fan of the defund-theTransportation Authority. police movement, he does favor She is opposed to the commuboosting public safet y with nity jail planned for Kew Gardens increased funding for educational but also does not like keeping programs to tackle hate crimes Rikers Island open as an alternaand violence. tive, favoring restorative justice He told the Chronicle before initiatives. the June primary that he will vote Her energy policies on her Democratic incumbent Councilwoman Lynn Schulman, left, is running against any city budget that procampaign website include cre- on Nov. 7 against Republican and Conservative Danniel Maio and Com- poses cuts to the Department of ating an electric grid that mon Sense Party nominee Sukhi Singh.

Eduction. A look at the summary is powered by 100 perCOURTESY PHOTO, LEFT; PHOTO BY RYAN BRADY; AND COURTESY PHOTO / FILE of his platform on his campaign cent renewable energy his website still lists that as by 2030 and “Aggressive timeHis public-safety platform includes crack- Singh’s top priority. tables to convert all polluting ing down on shoplifters, fare evasion on pubHe too supports the QueensLink project, buildings to clean energy by lic transportation, “out of control” marijuana which many supporters fear could be imper2030.” and illegal use and operation of mopeds and iled by the city’s commitment of $35 million Maio, a mapmaker from Forest similar vehicles. to convert a portion of the old rail line in ForHills, has run numerous campaigns Maio, like countless candidates in the past, est Hills to parkland; others say both projects for office in recent years. also wants a restructuring of the city’s proper- can be compatible.

He is a critic of the environmental mea- ty tax regulations.

Singh favors expanding rent stabilization sures mandated by Local Law 97. Maio says He also supports QueensLink, the rejected laws and protections, and says eliminating red on his campaign website that it will force con- proposal to rebuild a rail link between central tape for existing units would allow for an dominium and co-op owners in the district Queens and the Rockaway peninsula in the increase in supply. thousands of dollars to comply.

He also supports ensuring full language right-of-way for the old Long Island Rail Road On education, two of his priorities are Rockaway Beach branch, which was aban- access to all city agencies and government building a middle school in Richmond Hill and doned in 1962. forms for all languages spoken in the 29th Q increasing funding for afterschool programs.

Singh, a Richmond Hill resident whose District.

eens votes u Q

2 023

NYC Care speaks your language!

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Enroll in NYC Care regardless of your language, immigration status or ability to pay.

1-646-NYC-CARE

nyccare.nyc

C M SQ page 25 Y K Page 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

They get us.

So we got Elderplan.

Exceptional Medicare Advantage plans. No monthly premium.

As a not-for-profit, our goal is to support and guide our members, ensuring you have access to high-quality, affordable health care.

And that includes saving you money.

• NEW! Up to $3,240 in OTC to help with rent/ mortgage, utilities, internet, groceries, meals and traditional OTC1 • NEW! $500 Flex Card for out-of-pocket dental, hearing, or vision expenses

Most people only have until December 7th to enroll in a plan.

Call 1-866-394-4912 [TTY: 711] or visit ElderplanBenefits.org to learn more.

Scan to learn more or make an appointment.

• $0 premium plans 1

Leading the way to great care.

SM

The benefits mentioned are part of a special supplemental program for the chronically ill. Not all members qualify. 2Out-of-network/non-contracted providers are under no obligation to treat Plan members, except in emergency situations. Please call our Member Services number or see your Evidence of Coverage for more information, including the cost-sharing that applies to out-of-network services.

Elderplan is an HMO plan with Medicare and Medicaid contracts. Enrollment in Elderplan depends on contract renewal. Elderplan, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATTENTION: If you speak a non-English language or require assistance in ASL, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-800-353-3765 (TTY: 711). Elderplan, Inc. cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. Elderplan, Inc. 㱤鸶榫氳绢黆妨垵嫎䏱釨㲊 H3347_EP17561_M ┘㍔牊仌յ腍荇յ妨仌轑礴յ䇗룸յ壂꤃䡝䓪⮯縡塢♳⛰☔

For the latest news visit qchron.com

• NEW! The freedom to choose any specialist or dentist at no extra cost2

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 26

C M SQ page 26 Y K

Interborough Express meets The Metropolitan Transportation Authority will host its first three inperson town hall meetings to discuss the Interborough Express in November.

The plan is for a light-rail passenger line that would run between Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights and Bay Ridge in Brooklyn.

All three are scheduled to run from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The f irst is on Wednesday, Nov. 8, at Brooklyn College at 2900 Bedford Ave. in Flatbush.

The second will be on Wednesday, Nov. 15, at PS 7, the Louis F. Simeone School, at 80-55 Cornish Ave. in Elmhurst. The third is slated for Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Widdi Catering Hall at 5602 6 Ave. in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.

The line would run through an existing r ight-of-way that ser ves freight rail. It could car r y up to 115,000 riders per weekday, and could connect with up to 17 subway lines, the Long Island Rail Road and numerous bus routes. It also would cut travel time between boroughs by up to 30 minutes, depending on the destination.

Other possible Queens stops could include Ridgewood, Middle Village, Q Maspeth and Elmhurst.

Queens’ general election ballot continued from page 2 City Council District 26 In a 2021 rematch, incumbent Julie Won (D-Long Island City) will try to keep her seat against Republican Marvin Jeffcoat.

City Council District 32 Republican incumbent Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) has already won her re-election bid, as she faces no challengers in the general election.

City Council District 27 Democrat Nantasha Williams (D-St. Albans), the incumbent who won her seat uncontested in 2021, is defending it against Republican Marilyn Miller.

City Council District 34 The 34th District mostly covers Brooklyn, but includes some of Ridgewood.

Democrat Jennifer Gutiérrez, the incumbent, is being challenged by Medical Freedom Par t y candidate Marg uer ite Chandler.

City Council District 28 The City Council speaker, Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica), will face off against Republican Rusat Ramgopal. Adams has held her seat since 2017.

City Council District 29 Incumbent Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) has two challengers this time around: Republican Danniel Maio and Common Sense Party candidate Sukhi Singh.

City Council District 30 Incumbent Bob Holden (D-Masepth) will not face any challengers. Holden also ran uncontested in the general election in 2021.

City Council District 31 Incu mbent Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton) will defend her seat against Daniella May, a Republican.

Justice of the Supreme Court, 11th Judicial District In a race concerning only those within the 11th Judicial District, voters will have to choose five of the following: Cassandra Johnson (D), Karen Lin (D), Peter Kelly (D), Jessica Earle-Gargan, Scott Dunn (D/R) and Gary Muraca (R).

Judge of the Queens County Civil Court Only two candidates are running in this Queenswide race: Democrat Sandra Perez and Republican Sharmela Bachu.

Judge of the Civil Court, 1st Municipal Court District, Queens Michael Goldman, a Democrat, is the sole name on the ballot. Upon election, he would be the first openly gay judge in the Queens civil court system.

Judge of the Civil Court, 2nd Municipal Court District, Queens Democrat Sandra Muñoz is the only name on the ballot in this election.

Judge of the Civil Court, 4th Municipal Court District, Queens Delsia Marshall, a Democrat, is running uncontested for the position.

Judge of the Civil Court, 6th Municipal Court District, Queens Evelyn Gong, who touts an endorsement from the Queens Democratic Party, is runn i ng a g a i n s t Wi l l ia m Sh a n a h a n , a Republican.

Proposal Number 1: Removal of small city school districts from special constitutional debt limitation The proposed amendment to Article 8, Section 4 of the Constitution, which would remove the special constitutional debt limitation now placed on small city school districts, so they will be treated the same as all other school districts.

Proposal Number 2: Extending sewage project debt exclusion from debt limit The proposed amendment to Article 8, Section 5 of the Constitution extends for ten years the authority of counties, cities, towns and villages to remove from their constitutional debt limits debt for the construction Q of sewage facilities.

CO M P REH EN SI V E ME D I CA L I M A G I N G

For the latest news visit qchron.com

3T MRI • MRA • 1.2 OPEN MRI LOW DOSE CT • CTA • FLUOROSCOPY DAT SCAN • NUCLEAR MEDICINE PET/CT SCAN • ULTRASOUND • DEXA X-RAY • INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY CORONARY CT ANGIOGRAPHY CALCIUM SCORING ECHOCARDIOGRAM • LIVER BIOPSY THYROID BIOPSY PEDIATRIC RADIOLOGY

WOMEN'S IMAGING 3D DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY BREAST ULTRASOUND MRI BREAST STEREOTACTIC BREAST BIOPSY ULTRASOUND GUIDED CORE BIOPSY MRI GUIDED BIOPSY

32nd Avenue

Bayside 44th

Downtown Flushing

Western Queens

Glendale Queens

32-25 Francis Lewis Blvd Bayside, NY 11358

44-01 Francis Lewis Blvd Bayside, NY 11361

136-25 37th Ave Flushing, NY 11354

72-06 Northern Blvd Jackson Hts, NY 11372

83-14 Cooper Ave Glendale, NY 11385

T E L

( 7 1 8 ) 4 2 8 - 1 5 0 0 | F A X ( 7 1 8 ) 4 2 8 - 2 4 7 5 MA I NS T R E E T R A DI OL OGY . C OM

C M SQ page 27 Y K

Find out why MetroPlusHealth Medicare is right for you.* Learn about these valuable benefits:

UPCOMING QUEENS EVENTS Elmhurst Hospital December 4th | 10am–11:30am 79-01 Broadway 1st Floor A1-22 Auditorium MetroPlusHealth Jackson Heights Community Office November 4th, 10th and 16th | 9am–5pm 9214 Roosevelt Avenue

Page 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

Join one of our free, no obligation giveaway events!

Queens Hospital December 4th | 10am–11am N-Building, 1st Floor Auditorium 82-68 164th Street

Premiums and deductibles as low as $0 $450 towards vision care every year $500 for hearing aids every year 48 one-way trips to medical appointments at no cost Get free Flex Card to spend up to $1860 per year on utilities, food, OTC medicines and more**

Space is limited. Sign up for a free event today.

833.965.1526 Benefits shown are for our MetroPlus Advantage Plan (HMO D-SNP) members. MetroPlus Platinum Plan (HMO) and MetroPlus UltraCare (HMO D-SNP) members can learn more about their benefits at the events.

bit.ly/MetroPlusHealthSeminars For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call 866.986.0356 (TTY: 711), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

MetroPlus Health Plan, Inc. is an HMO, HMO D-SNP plan with a Medicare contract. MetroPlus Health Plan, Inc. has a contract with New York State Medicaid for MetroPlus UltraCare (HMO D-SNP) and a Coordination of Benefits Agreement with the New York State Department of Health for the MetroPlus Advantage Plan (HMO D-SNP). MetroPlusHealth is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or otherwise related to the federal government, CMS, HHS, and/or Medicare. Enrollment in MetroPlus Health Plan, Inc. depends on contract renewal.

MetroPlus Health Plan, Inc. complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingü.stica. Llame al 1.866.986.0356 (TTY: 711). ͩNj뻭ƧưǷ̹ů୒ɅġNJ뻟Ƿ ĻŘы͘ȦīДҶ྽Վ˖ө뺯ɐَǖ 1.866.986.0356 (TTY: 711).

H0423_MKT24_2241_M Accepted 10282023

For the latest news visit qchron.com

*No more than one gift per person. Each gift offered by MetroPlusHealth is valued at $5 or under. Free gifts available while supplies last. **Benefits do not roll over month to month.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 28

C M SQ page 28 Y K

Game ready at York with new coaches They’re ready to take student athletes who love basketball to the next level

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

York College has new head coaches for both its men’s and women’s basketball teams.

Leading the Cardinals for the teams are coaches Clarence Emengo and Jason Marshall, respectively.

“My goal is to help increase the intensity, help [the student athletes] become a better team and also bring a lot of enjoyement to the communty,” said Emengo, the coach of the men’s team. “I think it is very important to get the community involved.”

Emengo believes having more community support will help gameplay among the players.

“I want to have a lot of fundraisers and open day camps,” Emengo added about the Division III team.

If the opportunity arises, he would like to take the team to another division level, but his main focus is helping the team be its best.

“On this level ... I want to have them understand basketball,” Emengo said. “You can run plays all day, learn when to do something and how to do something, but I want to work on their basketball IQ. I’m a man-to-man guy.”

Emengo also believes in putting pressure on the ball and allowing the players to play their game while applying what he is teaching and understanding situation basketball.

SPORTS

Clarence Emengo, left, and Jason Marshall are the new head coaches of the men’s and women’s PHOTOS COURTESY YORK COLLEGE basketbal teams, respectively, at York College.

“You can have all the skills in the world, but if you cannot apply it, it is not useful,” he said. “Understanding situations and when to make certain plays and also, if you are a f lashy player, understanding when to be flashy and when to have more substance.”

The coach is searching for players who understand defensive aspects of the game and how to be a team player.

“A lot of time something might suffer in an individual game, but the bigger outcome is to win,” Emengo said.

The men’s team’s new season starts Nov. 8.

“I’m hoping to build a legacy and culture and a habit of winning,” said Marshall. “I want to build the reputation for York’s women’s basketball team. When you play against us, you are playing against a lot of high-character players who are focused on academics but are going to compete at a high level, and they are unapolegetic about winning.”

Marshall wants the athletes of the Division III team to also be good citizens not just at York, but throughout the greater Queens community.

“As far as them as athletes, I need them to come to practice and to work every day with a good mindset,” he said. “Be a good teammate and be good to those in the campus community.”

Repetition is key, the coach added.

“We need to be consistently competitive with the top four teams in the CUNY Conference every year and I want somebody that is able to compete on the national stage at the NCAA at a national tournament.”

“Being a Division III athlete is different,” he said. “You have to have a love of the game because you are not getting athletic aid. I want to build on that. We have to recruit the right players for the vision to do something special.”

Q The women’s season starts Nov. 15.

BEAT

City, Strongest have Big Storm in Big East tentative contract

by Lloyd Carroll

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Chronicle Contributor

Last Tuesday, the Big East Conference held its annual basketball media day at Madison Square Garden. The number of credentialed media was the largest I had seen in years. This was expected considering St. John’s University’s hiring of Rick Pitino as the Red Storm’s men’s basketball head coach. Not surprisingly, the Red Storm table attracted the largest media scrum, a fact that certainly pleased Pitino, who enjoyed holding court.

I asked Pitino about guard Chris Ledlum, who grew up in Staten Island and has a year of college eligibility after graduating from Harvard University last May. “He will be running the floor for us,” Pitino told me when I asked him about his role. I followed up by asking Pitino if he had ever coached a Harvard man before. He thought about it for a couple of seconds and replied, “Probably not. At least he is finally at a real institution of higher learning!” he chuckled. I heartily agree, especially considering recent events on that Cambridge campus.

Center Joel Soriano was the Red Storm’s best player last year and is one of the few returnees.

Pitino made it no secret he wanted to clean house on the team roster as soon as he signed his contract. He told guard Posh Alexander he should consider transferring to another college. Alexander complied as he left Queens for Indianapolis, where he will be playing for the Butler Bulldogs.

College athletes are not allowed to be paid directly by the schools for which they play. They are allowed, however, to make money through their name, image and likeness. I asked Soriano if he has landed any endorsement deals. “Not really. If we win, then those things will take care of themselves,” he said. Soriano’s teammate, guard Daniss Jenkins, who followed Pitino from Iona to St. John’s, echoed that.

It is tough for college athletes playing in the greater New York metropolitan area to make money from endorsements because of the number of professional sports teams in our market.

Xavier University guard Quincy Olivari told me one reason he selected that school was because it is in Cincinnati, which does not have either an NBA or NHL team. That makes it a lot easier to make money by appearing at local car dealerships and other southern Ohio/northern Kentucky businesses.

Villanova University forward Eric Dixon was the only basketball player who wore his glasses to media day. He laughed when I said he should seek an endorsement deal with an optical company. “I should since I really need them!” he replied. Dixon wears contact lenses when he plays. I asked him if he must look for them on the floor after going for a rebound. “Every practice!”

Q he quipped.

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

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Mayor Adams on Friday announced that the city has reached a tentative agreement on a 62-month contract with the union that represents its nearly 7,100 sanitation workers.

According to a press release from City Hall, the contract with Uniformed Sanitation Workers’ Union Local 831 runs retroactive to Dec. 28, 2022 and expires Feb. 27, 2028.

If approved by the rank and file, it will grant annual raises of 3.25, 3.25, 3.5, 3.5 and 4 percent.

“New York’s Strongest have always been heroes, but in the last three years, they have stepped up more than ever on behalf of our city, taking on new responsibilities in every corner of the five boroughs and returning the dignity of clean streets to our neighborhoods,” Adams said in a prepared statement.

“Our administration, thanks to the hard work of our sanitation workers, is restoring New York City to its rightful place as the cleanest big city in America,” the mayor added. “I want to congratulate

every sanitation worker on this agreement, as well as thank my friend, [union President] Harry Nespoli, and my team, led by [Labor Relations] Commissioner [Renee] Campion and [Sanitation] Commissioner [Jessica] Tisch, for their leadership.”

“With this contract, we have shown once again how this union works corroboratively with this agency to benefit the residents of New York City while providing justified compensation and benefits for the workforce,” Nespoli said. “I commend Mayor Adams for recognizing the contributions of our members and Commissioner Tisch for her in novative approach to improving the life of all New Yorkers.”

The Mayor’s Office said the city has now reached agreements with 90 percent of its unionized workforce under the Adams administration, calling it the quickest any mayoral administration has reached that milestone in modern city history.

It also means that the city now has reached labor agreements with all of its Q uniformed workforce.

C M SQ page 29 Y K Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

Have you heard the news about a smart plan for neighbors with MEDICARE & MEDICAID? $ As low as

0 Plan Premium & $ 0 Copays

266 a month for OTC Health & Grocery items $ Up to 760 a year for Home Utilities & more $ Up to 3000 a year for Dental Up to

$

7 days a week, 8 am – 8 pm

vnshealthplans.org Benefits and costs depend on your level of LIS or Medicaid eligibility and the plan you enroll in. Grocery and utility benefits are part of a special supplemental program for the chronically ill and not all members qualify. Other types of goods and services not eligible. VNS Health Medicare is a Medicare Advantage organization with Medicare and Medicaid contracts, offering HMO D-SNP and HMO plans. Enrollment in VNS Health Medicare depends on contract renewal. © 2023 VNS Health

H5549_24Print1v2_M Accepted 09172023

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Learn more about VNS Health Medicare: 1-866-414-6715 (TTY: 711)

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 30

C M SQ page 30 Y K

PARKER CARE. THE BEST. FOR THE BEST.

THEY GAVE YOU THE BEST

NOW IT’S YOUR CHANCE TO GIVE THEM THE BEST

3RVW $FXWH &DUH _ 6XE $FXWH &DUH _ 6KRUW 7HUP 5HKDELOLWDWLRQ _ /RQJ 7HUP &DUH _ +RVSLFH 3DOOLDWLYH &DUH _ ,QSDWLHQW 2XWSDWLHQW 'LDO\VLV _ +RPH +HDOWK &DUH _ 0HGLFDO +RXVH &DOOV 6HQLRU &DUH 0DQDJHPHQW _ 0HGLFDLG $GYDQWDJH 3OXV 3ODQ _ 0HGLFDUH $GYDQWDJH 3ODQ

For the latest news visit qchron.com

271-11 76th Avenue New Hyde Park, NY 11040 | 877-727-5373 | parkerinstitute.org

QLIR-070488

ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING

by Mark Lord

‘Death by Chocolate’ makes murder fun again

continued on page 33

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Combining elements of classic murder mysteries with biting satire of health crazes, “Death by Chocolate,” a rarely performed play by Paul Freed, is bound to keep audiences guessing at St. Mary’s Drama Guild, with four performances beginning Nov. 4.

Set at the Meadowbrook Health Resort, where members have been dropping like flies, the play is inhabited by a group of characters with outlandish names such as Dyslexia, a long-suffering secretary; Ralph Deadwood, the gym instructor; Dick Simmering, an aerobics instructor; and “Sweet Pea” Meadowbrook, the daughter of the rrecently deceased founder.

The piece just happened to catch the eye of director Claire Spinetti, who said she “came d aacross it when I was reading scripts about a year aago. I thought it was funny. I liked the idea that iit wasn’t well known.”

According to Spinetti, “It starts off similar to Agatha Christie,” a reference to the author of A sseveral widely produced plays in the same genre, aalong with scores of books, “and then it takes ssome interesting turns that make it very different.” d The cast, numbering around a dozen, range in age from 15 to 33, according to Spinetti, who appreciates working with a diverse group. appre eci “It’s “I It’s good when teenagers get to work with people peop ple 10 to 15 years older. They feed off that and learn lea a lot from the experience,” she said.

Among A mo the performers are some newcomerss to St. Mary’s as well as some returnees, including at least one who’s back following a prolonged absence from the group’s stage.

Mar kin her debut with the Woodside troupe Marking is lead ing lady Alison Goldman, who appears as leading Lady Riverdale, Riv R a woman she describes as the new w o owner of the health resort who has “a dar rk past.” Oh, yes, she also used to own a dark ch oc chocolate company, Goldman pointed out.

Th Though new to this group, Goldman, a re esid resident of Rego Park, has numerous stage ccre credits on her resume, but this production m marks her first time onstage in seven ye years.

Page 31 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

November 2, 2023 3

C M SQ page 31 Y K

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 32

C M SQ page 32 Y K

TRANSFORM WILLETS POINT, BUILD A NEIGHBORHOOD

TOGETHER WE WILL:

Create thousands of affordable housing units.

Build a brand new school.

boro

King Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS

1 Netting 5 Composer Porter 9 “I’m not impressed” 12 Dog food brand 13 Send forth 14 Chopper 15 “Arrivederci!”

16 Marathon fraction 17 Blemish 18 Difficult 19 JFK info 20 Gentle soul 21 Victory 23 Greek X 25 Quick run 28 Cry of distress 32 Exact moment 33 Broadcast again 34 Rouse 36 Caviar provider 37 “Xanadu” band 38 “-- Blue?”

39 Family fight 42 Zodiac animal 44 Frost 48 Hostel 49 Future tulip 50 Tex. neighbor 51 Scribble (down) 52 Regarding 53 Paris airport 54 Equi55 “Scram!”

56 Calendar squares

DOWN

1 Jet speed measure 2 Director Kazan 3 Practice pugilism 4 Bamboozled 5 Solidify 6 Skip 7 Fragrant flowers 8 Summer on the Seine 9 Crib cry 10 Physical

11 Basil or thyme 20 Bread and butter, so to speak 22 Chip giant 24 Seraglio 25 Resort 26 “Wham!”

27 Estuary 29 -- de cologne 30 “Top Gun” target 31 Historic time

35 “Take your time” 36 Panda’s diet 39 South Pacific nation 40 Eve’s grand-son 41 “Do -- others ...”

43 Sax range 45 Gumbo veggie 46 Friend 47 Beams 49 Some coll. degrees

Answers on next page

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

Andrea King was the acting queen of Kew Gdns.

by Ron Marzlock

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Bring thousands of good-paying jobs, including more than 14,000 jobs constructing the soccer stadium.

A WORLD-CLASS PROJECT FOR THE WORLD’S BOROUGH

LEARN MORE AT WILLETSPOINTQUEENS.COM

Chronicle Contributor

Georgette Andre Barry was born on Feb. 1, 1919 in Paris. Her American mother, Belle, was stationed in France. Belle claimed her husband was a fighter pilot killed in 1918, but Georgette’s true lineage turned out to be something of a mystery.

After Belle’s return to the United States, she met a 42-year-old bachelor, attorney Douglas McKee. They were wed on Aug. 18, 1924. McKee adopted 5-year-old Georgette and The childhood home of Hollywood actress Andrea King she became Georgette McKee. at 82-31 Beverly Road in Kew Gardens, as it looks GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET WARNER BROS. They moved to Queens, where he today. worked, buying a home at 82-31 the most photogenic actress on the lot in Beverly Road in Kew Gardens.

Georgette was acting professionally by 1945. Her roles ranged from glamorous to the age of 14. At 21, she married attorney bad girls. She also was big on television and Nathaniel Hite Willis, a direct descendant of received one of the very first stars on the George Washington, on Oct. 6, 1940. Her Hollywood Walk of Fame in February 1960.

King took few roles after the early 1970s parents moved to an apartment at 4 Dartand in the ’90s started writing children mouth St. in Forest Hills Gardens.

She was signed by Warner Bros. Studios books. She passed away on April 22. 2003 at in 1944. Jack L. Warner personally changed age 84. The mystery about her father is relatQ her name to Andrea King. She was named ed in some detail at andreaking.com.

C M SQ page 33 Y K

my wig, nice flat shoes, and I’m in character completely,” she said.

A native of the Bronx, Danielle feels right at home “An ode to the old days.” here.

That’s how Ashlee Danielle describes “The Last “The Black theater pool in New York is very tight,” Block Association,” the play in which she is currently she explained, so she already knew some of her fellow appearing at Black Spectrum Theatre in St. Albans, with cast members. five performances remaining through Nov. 5.

Clay pointed out that the cast is a diversified group, Written and directed by Carl Clay, the play centers coming from various parts of the world. on the day-to-day issues that many urban block associ“It’s a welcome challenge to bring everybody ations face in 21st-century America. together,” he said.

Clay, who grew up in St. Albans, recalled in a phone Clay expects the show’s audiences to be diverse, interview that his parents were both involved in their too, the better to relate to the play’s storyline: “A new block association. family moves into the neighborhood and everybody “Being a young person, you’re there when they have has issues with them.” their meetings. You can’t help overhearing the issues The play also “represents some young people in the that come up,” he said. play; it gets into some young people’s issues,” he As the years went by, Clay noticed that these organiadded. zations, which address common neighborhood issues And he said that the show is relevant to today’s sociranging from housing conditions and economic devel- “The Last Block Association,” an original play about neighborhood issues, ety, “reflecting demographic and sociological shifts, PHOTO COURTESY CARL CLAY opment to traffic safety and social activities, were runs through Nov. 5 at Black Spectrum Theatre. reflecting the neighborhood at large.” Southeast slowly but surely disappearing.

The first in-house production of this theatrical season, the figures that ran the block,” Clay said. “Pauline is take- Queens, he said, is “more integrated than ever.”

At the center of the play, Pauline struggles to keep her 54th for the company, the play began to take shape during charge, like her father. She wanted to be like him.”

“It’s an homage to the way communities used to bond block together despite the neighborhood’s changes. the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Clay.

“I’m excited. It’s a fun, heartfelt, quirky piece,” Danielle “No one was going anywhere,” he said, and “it was together,” Danielle said.

The role is the first at Black Spectrum for Danielle, who said. something I always wanted to do,” namely, paying tribute to Performances at Black Spectrum Theatre (located in Roy studied at both the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and a dying, longstanding tradition.

Remembering that “there was always somebody in St. John’s University, and it presents the actress with several Wilkins Park, at 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard in St. Albans) continue Nov. 2, 3 and 4 at 7 p.m., Nov. 4 at 2 p.m. charge” at the meetings, Clay created Danielle’s character, a challenges.

“She’s a bit older,” Danielle explained of her character. “I and Nov. 5 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $35. For further informawoman named Pauline, whose father ran a block association.

Q The characters in the play “were created to represent the leaned on my grandma and mama” for inspiration. “I put on tion, visit blackspectrum.net or call (718) 723-1800.

by Mark Lord

qboro contributor

Page 33 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

Play asks, can there be unity in the community?

‘Death by Chocolate’ not just a dream but a comedy

Crossword Answers

royal children in “The King and I.” The lifelong resident of Maspeth said this production marks his first stage appearance since the Covid-19 pandemic. During the hiatus he enlisted in the National Guard, spending several months training in Missouri.

Now, he’s back home, a college student by day and an enthusiastic thespian at night.

Comparing himself to his character, Browne explained, “I’m interested in fitness.

Appearance-wise I fit the part,” but that’s where the similarities end. Whereas he claims to be a real-life goofball who likes to play pranks, Deadwood has a “mean, twisted demeanor.” Playing such a character doesn’t come easily to Browne, who admitted it’s quite a challenge to interact in character with his fellow performers.

For Spinetti, one of the greatest challenges in this production has been how to handle the play’s wide variety of jokes. “It’s hard to hit them all,” she said. And, she added, getting the pacing right has also taken work.

Despite some dark humor, the play should prove appropriate for all age groups, Spinetti said, equating it with many Disney films in which some jokes go over

Christina Lama, left, as Margaret Daniels, and Tara Gleason as John Stone at a recent rehearsal of “Death by Chocolate.” On the cover: More members of the cast, including Alison Goldman, with gun, as Lady Riverdale, Kerryclare Gleason, top, Landon Browne, Ashley Gleason, Padraig Gleason and Claudia Whitmore. The comical show runs this PHOTOS BY KERRYCLARE GLEASON weekend and next at St. Mary’s Auditorium in Woodside. the heads of young audiences.

Performances at St. Mary’s Auditorium (70-20 47 Ave., Woodside) are on Nov. 4 and 11 at 6:30 p.m. and Nov. 5 and 12 at

3:30 p.m. Reserved seats are $25; general admission tickets are $20. For further information, visit stmarysdramaguild.org or call Q (347) 450-6184.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

continued from page 31 “It was just as I remember it,” she said.

“It is so much fun. I thought it would feel weird. But it’s like riding a bicycle. It feels natural, like I never stopped doing it.”

In contrast, Landon Browne, 19, who plays the gym instructor, described by the actor as “an overall jerky kind of fellow, a jock bully,” said he has been with St. Mary’s — on and off — since the age of 5, when he made his stage debut there as one of the

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 34

C M SQ page 34 Y K

W&U Construction Inc. • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Carpentry • Painting

• Window & Door Replacement

Lic. #1311321

Cell: 646-262-0153

3rd Generation 220V Services, Outlets, Security Lights, Fixtures, Etc.

45

Call Russo Electric Honest & Reliable Your Neighborhood Electrician Since 1946

AFFORDABLE PRICES FREE ESTIMATES Licensed & Insured

Licensed

ELECTRICIAN

49

718-827-8175

Member of the Better Business Bureau

GARY RYAN HOME SPECIALIST, INC. Are you thinking about renovating or remodeling your home or business place?

Your home is your single largest investment!

We have the experience and knowledge regarding ALL types of home and business improvements.

New Construction, Remodeling, Extensions, Alterations, Additions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Basements, Tiling

FREE ESTIMATES

WE SERVICE YOUR COMMUNITY 47

INSURED

Lic. #1398018 & 1310043

JJ’s ROOFING All Work 100% Guaranteed!

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED 4 GENERATIONS

26 Years Experience

Flat Roof Specialists

• New Roofs of all Types • Roofing Repairs • Chimney Caps • Waterproofing • Basements Waterproofing

J.H. ELECTRIC

HVAC Plumbing, Heating & AC Refrigeration, Dishwashers

Residential/Commercial

Licensed & Insured Serving Queens Since 1974

Special

10% OFF FIND US ON

Emergency Service Available 24/7 516-547-5509 917-601-7205

– Serving All Of Queens –

50

Senior

917-407-1141 Discount 718-713-8020 HIC Lic. #1443031 NEW HEIGHTS CONSTRUCTION LLC

Licensed/Insured

Call 917-755-2507

Specializing in: • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Doors • Painting • Tiling • Plumbing • Cleanouts • Electrical • Power Washing • Basements • Yard Cleanup and Landscaping FREE ESTIMATES S Frank 917-770-4510 49

FALL SPECIALS!

KITCHENS & BATHS Waterproofing, Gutters, Soffit & Fascia Repair, and more!

*SPECIALS ON VINYL SIDING cepting Al G FINANCIN FENCES, DECKS & AWNINGS Ac Credit Card l NOW

Ask for Bob

718-968-5987

MASONRY WORK

Concrete Sidewalk Violations • Porches • Brick and Granite Steps Paver Stones • Brick Pointing • Stucco, etc.

49

INTERIOR FLOORING & PAINTING Call Now for FREE Estimates John Miller 917-642-0195 • 718-767-0044 NewHeightsConstructionNYC@gmail.com

LIC. & INS. - REASONABLE RATES 46 FREE ESTIMATES

347-242-2259 • 646-244-1658

$75

Drain Rooter

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Any Drain

ALL WORK IS GUARANTEED • FREE ESTIMATES RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL - Sewer & Drain Cleaning - Plumbing Repairs 718-877-5020 - Plumbing Replacements 570-301-2557 - Water Pumping - Toilets

- Video Camera Inspections - Hydro Jetting - High Pressure Sewer Cleaning 47 - Sewage Cleanup

HANDYMAN 20% • Bathrooms • Painting OFF any job • Basements • Plastering • Water Damage Repairs • Kitchens • Wood Floors • Carpentry • Skim Coating • Sheetrock/Taping • Doors • Tiling • Windows / Leaks FULLY INSURED / WORK GUARANTEED WINTER SPECIALS ON PAINTING 45 Call Anthony

347-226-0202

• Bathroom Tiling • Mason Work • Roofing • Siding • Carpentry • Dry Wall • Painting • Gutter Cleaning No Job Too Large or Too Small

Call George

917-301-0217

Our company is a family-owned and operated company not affi liated with any other company.

We stand by all our work and strive to give you the job your hard-earned money has paid for.

All our work is backed by warranties and your satisfaction is guaranteed.

ALL TYPES OF ROOFS ❖ Roofi ng & Waterproofing ❖ Repair on Flat Roofs ❖ Brick Pointing & Repair ❖ Rubber Roof Installation ❖ Leak Detection & Repair

❖ Thorocoat Waterproof Coating ❖ Silicone Roofi ng Systems Installation ❖ Installation & Repair of Shingle Roofs ❖ Repair & Roof Coating of all Types ❖ Skylight & Hatch Replacement

SENIOR DISCOUNTS

20% OFF

REPAIRS WITH THIS AD

447 Broadway, 2nd FL #264, New York, NY 10013 Call for Free Estimates Today!

Licensed / Bonded / Insured

NYC HIC Lic. #2034648

MANHATTANROOFS.COM

718-489-4044 212-495-9840 800-590-1309

NEW HEIGHTS CONSTRU UCTION U C LLC CONSTRUCTION LLC

FALL SPECIALS!

Call BIG JOHN, the owner, for Personalized Service, Best Prices & Free Estimates!

43

Ask For Stela

- Carpentry - Plumbing - Taping - Plastering - Painting

46

52

WROUGHT IRON RON - Railings - Fencing - Security Doors

s

Wood Cedar, PVC, Stainless Steel, Chain Link, etc.

Pressure Treated and Composite Decking

• Painting • Plastering • Carpentry • Hardwood Flrs.

• Skim Coating • Basements

REPAIRS

To Place A Service Ad Call 718-205-8000

SIDING, ROOFING & WINDOWS

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Plumbing • Ceramic Tile • Sheetrock

All Leaks on Pipes, Faucets, Toilets, Shower Bodies, Radiator Valves, Clear Stoppages in Sinks, Tubs, Also Install Hot Water Heaters Free Estimates Cheap Rates

917-593-3926

Complete Renovation & Remodeling, Expert Tile, Granite and Quartz

46

HOME IMPROVEMENT HIGH QUALITY - OWNER OPERATED

Discount

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

Earl Construction Inc.

Call BIG JOHN, the owner, for Personalized Service, Best Prices & Free Estimates!

For the latest news visit qchron.com

FREE ESTIMATES

FRANCO’S

PAINTERS & TILES R US

Call Today For A Free Full Roof Inspection & Estimate

AVAILABLE

48

• Lighting, Heat, Power, 220 Upgrades, A/C Lines, Bells and Intercom • Violations Removed NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL!

MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS

718-641-4164 • 516-244-3799

LICENSED

Castro Mechanical

FINANCING NOW AVAILABLE

All Repairs 45

AWNINGS GS

- Aluminum - Lexon

STAINLESS STEEL TEEL - Railings - Fencing - Security Doors

Accepting All Credit Cards

46 Call ll Now ffor FREE Estimates John Miller 917-642-0195 • 718-767-0044

NewHeightsConstructionNYC@gmail.com

C M SQ page 35 Y K

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

Computer Services

Computer Services

Health Services

Health Services

LOGAN BUS COMPANY

$5,000 SIGN ON BONUS $1,000 REFERRAL BONUS - BRING A FRIEND NO CDL? NO PROBLEM! WE WILL TRAIN YOU FOR FREE

Elder Care Services, Inc. MEDICAID PROFESSIONALS

Jack Lippmann

CDL Drivers with P & S endorsements.

Also looking for Qualifi ed Mechanics Benefi ts, Competitive Salaries, Paid Holidays & Pension.

Job placements in Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn.

Over 29 years experience fi ling Medicaid Home Care and Nursing Home applications Protect your income, home, life savings • Apply for Medicaid, medical assistance

FREE Consultation - 718-575-5700

Inquire at Logan Bus Company, 9714 Atlantic Ave. Ozone Park, NY 11416 (718) 738-7373 EXT 2144 (Solange) Send resume to: SEscobar@loganbus.com

SCHOOL BUS/VAN Garage/Yard Sales Howard Beach, Sat 11/4 & Sun DRIVERS Best Pay Package in the Industry!

Start at $28.24* (Bus), $24.66* (Van) Equal Opportunity Employer Free CDL Training 25 Hrs. a week minimum FULL BENEFIT PACKAGE

HUNTINGTON COACH 631-271-8931 *Attendance Bonus Included

11/5, 10am-3pm, 159-30 86 St. Holiday Barbies, holiday HESS trucks, Christmas decorations, bikes. Cleaning out attic of 40 years!

Tag Sales Howard Beach, Sat 11/4 & Sun 11/5, 10am-3pm, 161-20 98 St. Fine home decor & more!

www.eldercareservicesny.com 97-37 63rd Road, 9H, Rego Park, NY 11374

Internet Discounts

Internet Discounts

• • • •

Medicaid SNAP SSI WIC

Travel

• • • •

Veterans Pension Survivors or Lifeline Benefits Tribal Assistance Program Housing Assistance

Miscellaneous

Merchandise Wanted

Legal Notices

Services

Call to get your FREE Information Kit

1-855-225-1434 Dental50Plus.com/nypress

Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating (in GA: Designated) Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer.

Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds: B438, B439 (GA: B439B).

6208-0721

Saving a Life EVERY 11 MINUTES

alone I’m never

Life Alert ® is always here for me.

One touch of a button / sends help fast,, 24/7. with

Home Services

Health Services

Legal Notices

We Court Your Legal Advertising.

Call

718-205-8000

GPS !

+HOS DW +RPH +HOS 2Q WKH *R ®

:Yll]ja]k F]n]j F]]\ ;`Yj_af_&

For a FREE brochure call:

1-800-404-9776 Merchandise For Sale Merchandise For Sale Butcher’s Deluxe Package – MAKES A –

GREAT GIFT

4 Butcher’s Cut Top Sirloins (5 oz.)

4 Air-Chilled Boneless Chicken Breasts (4 oz.)

4 Boneless Pork Chops (5 oz.)

4 Individual Scalloped Potatoes (3.8 oz.)

4 Caramel Apple Tartlets (4 oz.)

1 Omaha Steaks Seasoning (3 oz.)

8 FREE PureGround™ Filet Mignon Burgers (6 oz.)

74222DRF separately $221.94 SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY PRICE

$

9999

Get 8 FREE Burgers 1.877.592.1351 ask for 74222DRF OmahaSteaks.com/Deluxe8463

Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Standard S&H applies.

Exp. 12/31/23. | Omaha Steaks, Inc.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

CALL TODAY (877) 651-1637 SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS! Up to 75% More than 500 AIRNeed a great Sales Rep for your LINES and 300,000 HOTELS business? Call the Experts: across the world. Let us do the 201-815-2636. “Guaranteed research for you for FREE! Call BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year 52-61 71ST STREET LLC Articles Results” SalesTeamStaffing.com 877-988 7277 Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months free of Org. fi led NY Sec. of State (SSNY) premium movie channels! Free 9/15/22. Offi ce in Queens Co. next day installation! Call SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom English Lessons for Children Five BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as 888-508-5313 to Ten Years Old. Reading, com- little as ONE DAY! Affordable process may be served. SSNY prehension, grammar, vocabulary, prices–No payments for 18 DIRECTV Sports Pack 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college shall mail process to 6231 PGA and vowel sounds. Please call: months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & mili- sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional Blvd., Ste. 104, #118, Palm Beach 646-575-3932 tary Discounts available. Call: and specialty networks included.

NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, Gardens, FL 33418. Purpose: Any 866-393-3636 NHL, Golf and more. Some lawful purpose. Principal business restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV Drive Out Breast Cancer: Donate a loc: 52-61 71st St., Maspeth, 1-888-534-6918 car today! The benefits of donatSecure your home with Vivint Happy Jack Liquiavict 2x is recog- NY 11378. ing your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup-24hr Response, Tax Smart Home technology. Call nized safe & effective against hook Notice of Formation of Deduction- Easy To Do! Call 24/7: 866-601-1219 to learn how you & round worms by the USCVM. BAISLEY OASIS LLC Articles of can get a professionally installed Double strength, 3 year stability.

855-905-4755 security system with $0 activation. At Tractor Supply (www.happy- Organization were fi led with the jackinc.com) Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/22/2023. Offi ce loLOOKING TO BUY Estates, gold, cation: Queens County. SSNY has ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY high-end & brand name jewelry, been designated as agent of the of Formation of top price paid, costume jewelry, USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy Notice That Moves with You with Inogen LLC upon whom process against it furn, records, silver, coins, art, 200-02 LINDEN BLVD LLC Articles stamps, comics, oriental items. Portable Oxygen Concentrators. of Organization were fi led with the may be served. SSNY shall mail a Call George, 718-386-1104 or FREE information kit. Call copy of process to: PATRICE DAVIS, Secretary of State of New York 888-514-3044 917-775-3048 161 08 BAISLEY BLVD., JAMAICA, HEARING AIDS!! High-quality (SSNY) on 09/29/2022. Offi ce NY 11434. Purpose: For any PLEASE CALL LORI, rechargeable, powerful Audien location: Queens County. SSNY 1-929-361-0643 (Cell Phone). I hearing aids priced 90% less than lawful purpose. has been designated as agent of PAY THE BEST, MOST HONEST competitors. Tiny and NEARLY PRICES FOR ESTATES, FURNI- INVISIBLE! 45-day money back the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail TURE, CHANDELIERS, LAMPS, guarantee! 855-598-5898 a copy of process to: CHEICK A. COSTUME JEWELRY, WATCHES (WORKING OR NOT WORKING), My Caring Plan’s local advisors K TRAORE, 14540 182ND ST., For Legal Notice FURS, COINS, POCKETBOOKS, have helped thousands of families SPRINGFIELD GDNS, NY 11413 CHINA, VASES, GLASSWARE, with unique needs find senior liv- Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Rates & Information, STERLING SILVERWARE, FIG- ing. Can you afford $2K a month in rent?

We can help for free!

URINES, CANDLESTICKS, PAINTHaving a garage sale? Let everyINGS, PRINTS, RUGS, PIANOS, 866-989-1812 one know about it by advertising GUITARS, VIOLINS, FLUTES, Classified Ad Deadline is 12 Noon in the Queens Classifieds. Call TAG SALES, CLEANOUTS, CARS on Tuesday for Thursday’s paper. 718-205-8000 and place the ad!

Merchandise For Sale

from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company

! " # # $

Sales Talent

Tutoring

DENTAL Insurance

Connect Anywhere, Anytime.

Page 35 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 36

C M SQ page 36 Y K To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST, AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN FOR THE NYCTL 19982 TRUST, Plaintiff, vs.

111 LAND CORP., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated August 30, 2023 and duly entered on September 6, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the outside steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on November 17, 2023 at 12:15 p.m., premises known as No# 111th Avenue, South Jamaica, NY 11433 a/k/a 169-13 111th Avenue, 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 10200 and Lot 83.

Approximate amount of judgment is $7,139.39 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 701505/2021. The Referee shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 policies concerning public auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure’s Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term website. Mark J. Keller, Esq., Referee, Bronster, LLP, 156 West 56th Street, Suite 703, New York, New York 10019, Attorneys for Plaintiff

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 on the outside steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on November 17, 2023 at 11:30 a.m., premises known as 106-07 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.

The Referee shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 policies concerning public auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure’s Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term website. Lawrence M. Litwack, Esq., Referee, Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 105, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

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 on the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on the 17th day of November, 2023 at 10:45 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 fi led 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: August 24, 2023 During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS 1900 CAPITAL TRUST III, BY U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS CERTIFICATE TRUSTEE, Plaintiff AGAINST KAZIM MOHAMMED, et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered August 29, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York. on November 17, 2023 at 12:15PM premises known as 138-01 107th Avenue, Jamaica, N.Y. 11435 All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 10039, Lot 20. Approximate amount of judgment $749,480.92 plus interest and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #702791/2014. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the QUEENS County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Foreclosure Auctions will be held “Rain or Shine”. Linda Mule, Esq., Referee Ross Eisenberg Law PLLC 445 Central Ave. Suite 112 Cedarhurst N.Y. 11516 0005 Notice of Formation of BP BUSINESS SERVICES LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/21/2023. Offi ce 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: BETINA CARMEN PLANAS, 82-37 212TH ST, QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11427.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

of Formation of Notice of Formation of NY HAMMERS LLC. Arts. of Notice of Formation of Notice BUCKETS & BUBBLES CLEANING Born To Share LLC Articles of Org. fi led with the SSNY on Broelle Media LLC. Art. of Org. SERVICES LLC Articles of Organi09/26/23. Offi ce: Queens fi led Sec’y of State (SSNY) Organization were fi led with the zation were fi led with the SecreSecretary of State of New York County. SSNY designated as 9/22/23.

Offi ce location:(SSNY) on 07/19/2023. Offi ce tary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/16/2023. Offi ce location: agent of the LLC upon whom Queens Co. SSNY designated location: Queens County. SSNY has process against it may be as agent of LLC upon whom been designated as agent of the Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC served. SSNY shall mail copy process against it may be served. LLC upon whom process against upon whom process against it of process to the LLC, SSNY shall mail process to: it may be served. SSNY shall mail may be served. SSNY shall mail a a copy of process to: RASHARD 52-86 73rd Street, Maspeth, 30-42 38th Street, Apt 1, MITCHELL, 112-16 197TH STREET, copy of process to: ALICIA RAMIREZ, 10855 49TH AVENUE, APT 2R, NY 11378. Purpose: Any lawful Queens, NY 11103. Purpose: any ST ALBANS, NY 11412. Purpose: CORONA, NY 11368. Purpose: purpose.

For any lawful purpose. lawful activities.

For any lawful purpose.

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 212941-6101, 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.

Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sun 11/5, 1pm-3pm, 161-3088th St. Hi-Ranch, 4 BR, 3 new full baths. Wood burning fireplace, inground pool. Reduced $999K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136 Classified Ad Special. Pay for 3 weeks and the 4th week is FREE! Call 718-205-8000 Our Classifieds Reach Over 200,000 Readers. Call 718-2058000 to advertise.

Legal Notices

MIRACLE TDSS LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 05/19/2022. Offi ce loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail Howard Beach, pvt home, share process to: The LLC, 137-47 bathroom. 1 month security. No Southgate Street, Springfi eld brokers. Call 718-232-8682, ask Gardens, NY 11413. Purpose: for Willie.

Any Lawful Purpose.

Furn.Rm.For Rent

Co-ops For Sale

Howard Beach/Lindenwood, Fairfield Arms. 1 BR, 1 full bath Co-op, Reduced, $169K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136 Howard Beach/Lindenwood, Southgate Condo Bldg. 2 BR, 2 full baths, terr, Master BR has walk-in closet. Asking $399K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Legal Notices Rise & Shine Social LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 9/11/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Registered Agent Solutions, Inc., 99 Washington Ave., Ste. 700, Albany, NY 12260. General Purpose

SKINISHNYC

LLC

fi

Offi ce: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: 214-06 16th Ave., Bsmt, NY

11360.

Purpose: any lawful.

THOMAS E. MCCULLOUGH, LLC Articles of Org. fi led NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 10/24/23.

Offi ce in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 42-40 Bell Blvd., Ste. 500, Bayside, NY 11361, which is also the principal business location.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

led Welkom Media Group LLC,

w/ SSNY on 10/2/23.

Bayside,

Notice of Formation of PARADIES LAGARDERE NY EE DINING, LLC Arts. of Org. fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/25/23. Offi ce location: Queens County. Princ. offi ce of LLC: 2849 Paces Ferry Rd., Ste. 400, Atlanta, GA 30339.

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 12207.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/17/2023.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Registered Agent Solutions, Inc., 99 Washington Ave., Ste. 700, Albany, NY 12260. General Purpose

C M SQ page 37 Y K

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF SALE

Notice of Qualifi cation of Generation Love IP LLC. App. For Auth. fi led with Secy of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/26/23. Offi ce location: Queens County. LLC formed in Delaware (DE) on 9/21/23. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: United Corporate Services, Inc. (UCS), 10 Bank St, Ste 560, White Plains, NY 10606. DE address of LLC: UCS, 800 North State St, Ste 304, Dover, DE 19901. Arts of Org fi led with DE Secy of State, 401 Federal St., Ste 3, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF IMAGEPERFECTO LLC Articles of QUEENS SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS INDEX #715012/2019 Organization were fi led with the Original filed with Clerk August 30, 2019 Plaintiff Designates Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/05/2023. Offi ce Queens County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that location: Queens County. SSNY has the subject action is situated Queens County. Premises: 48-44 been designated as agent of the 194 Street, Flushing, NY 11365 Nationstar HECM Acquisition Trust LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a 2018-1, Wilmington Savings Fund Society, FSB, not individually, copy of process to: NORTHWEST REGISTERED AGENT LLC, 418 but solely as trustee, Plaintiff, -against- RAYMOND L.H. MURPHY, BROADWAY, STE N, ALBANY, JR. AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF JAMES H. MURPHY; T. JEFFERSON NY 12207. Purpose: For any MURPHY A/K/A THOMAS JEFFERSON MURPHY AS HEIR TO THE lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of Gold Stone Property Holding LLC Articles of Organization fi led with the Secretary of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on September 6, 2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Jiemin Shang, 137-81 Northern Blvd., Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Kalmegha LLC, Arts of Org.

GRAN AVE LLC fi led Arts. of Org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/22/2019.

Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: Jerry Lebedowicz, 52-47 Browvale Ln, Little Neck, NY 11362. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of Qualifi cation of Keystone Management, LLC, fi ctitious name: Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if Keystone Management Holdings, LLC. the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice Authority fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/23/23. Offi ce location: of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after Queens County. LLC formed in Georgia the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or (GA) on 10/01/20. SSNY designated as within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); to: 1170 Peachtree St., Ste. 1150, Atlanta, the United States of America may appear or answer within 60 GA 30309, also the address required to be maintained in GA. Arts of Org. fi led day of service hereof; and in case of your failure to appear or with the Secy. of State, 2 MLK, Jr, Dr., answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief Suite 313, Floyd West Tower, Atlanta, GA 30334-1530. Purpose: any lawful activities. demanded in the Complaint. This supplemental summons and

HOME2SWEET LLC, Arts of

Notice of Formation of amended complaint are being filed pursuant to Court order dated LEAVES BY VETERAN, LLC Articles August 24, 2023. THE OBJECT OF THE ACTION is to foreclose a of Organization were fi led with the mortgage recorded on Sept. 19, 2011 at CRFN: 2011000330378, Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/06/2023. Offi cecovering premises known as 48-44 194 Street, Flushing, NY location: Queens County. SSNY has 11365 a/k/a Block 5628, Lot 47. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF been designated as agent of the LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this Summons and LLC upon whom process against it Complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 4617 mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against SMART STREET, FLUSHING, NY you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may 11355. Purpose: For any lawful be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or purpose.

Notice of Formation of ELEPHANT ELEMENT LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/23/2023. Offi ce 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: MICHELLE D BARRERA TRIVINO, 17811 90TH AVE., JAMAICA, NY 11432. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of F R K TAXI LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on HONGDI CONSULTING LLC Articles 10/23/2023. Offi ce loc: Queens of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York County. SSNY has been des- (SSNY) on 06/12/2023. Offi ce loignated as agent upon whom cation: Queens County. SSNY has process against the LLC may been designated as agent of the be served. SSNY shall mail pro- LLC upon whom process against cess to: MD Faruque Hossain it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: HONGDI Khan, 8906 213th St., Queens CONSULTING LLC, 5012 SPRINGVillage, NY 11427. Purpose: FIELD BLVD., BAYSIDE, NY 11364.

Any Lawful Purpose.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Dr. R. Ravtiz Medicine NYC PLLC. Filed 8/28/23.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail 84-58 151 St., Briarwood, NY 11432. Purpose: any

Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 10/11/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 11 Saint Johns Ave., Valley Stream, NY 11580.

General Purpose

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

ESTATE OF JAMES H. MURPHY; ANY AND ALL UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES AND PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVES OF JAMES H.

fi led with Sec. of State of MURPHY AND ANY SUCCESSORS IN RIGHT, TITLE AND INTEREST; NY (SSNY) 3/24/2023. Cty:

SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; NEW YORK

Queens. SSNY desig. as agent

STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; STROBER

upon whom process against may be served & shall mail

BUILDING SUPPLY, INC. N/K/A PROBUILD EAST, LLC; STROBER BUILDING SUPPLY, INC.; PROBUILD EAST, LLC; CITY OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU

process to 4272 80th St.,

PAYMENT AND ADJUDICATION CENTER OF QUEENS; CITY OF

Apt. 6C, Elmhurst, NY 11373.

NEW YORK ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; AND TRANSIT

General Purpose

ADJUDICATION BUREAU, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED

MING CHEUNG HOLDING CO, LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 10/20/2023. Offi ce 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, 41-42 College Point Blvd., 2A, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the

go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Uniondale, New York September 26, 2023 Respectfully submitted, Pincus Law Group, PLLC., By: Jason D. Barringer, Esq., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 425 RXR Plaza Uniondale, NY 11556, 516-699-8902 #100820

For the latest news visit qchron.com

lawful.

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS SELENE FINANCE LP, Plaintiff AGAINST VALENA YOUNIS, SAMUEL DAMHIR, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered November 23, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Courthouse steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on December 1, 2023 at 10:00AM, premises known as 99-06 212TH STREET, QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11428. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough of Queens, City of New York, County of Queens and State of New York, Block 10880, Lot 47. Approximate amount of judgment $1,365,135.50 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #716423/2021. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the QUEENS County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Stephen D. Hans, Esq., Referee. Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 19-001215 77646

Legal Notices

Page 37 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY CHONDRITE REO (6), INC., Plaintiff against IRVING UNIQUE DEVELOPMENT, LLC, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 7 Wells Street, Suite 205B, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered August 15, 2023, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at steps of Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on November 17, 2023 at 10:30 AM. Premises known as 11-33 Irving Avenue, Flushing, NY 11385. Block 3725 Lot 33. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $4,683,232.62 plus interest, fees, and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 702116/2020.

The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Lois Vitti, Esq., Referee 22-002936-01

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 38

C M SQ page 38 Y K PUBLIC STATEMENT HEARINGS TO BE HELD IN PSC CASES 23-G-0225, 23¬G-0226 – NATIONAL GRID NY AND NATIONAL GRID FOR GAS SERVICE On April 28, 2023, The Brooklyn Union Gas Company d/b/a National Grid NY (KEDNY) and KeySpan Gas East Corporation d/b/a National Grid (KEDLI) (collectively, the Companies) filed amendments to their gas tariff schedules proposing to increase their annual gas delivery revenues effective March 31, 2024. KEDNY proposes to increase its revenues by $414 million (a 28 percent increase in base delivery revenues or a 17 percent increase in total revenues). KEDLI proposes to increase its revenues by $228 million (a 24 percent increase in base delivery revenues or a 14 percent increase in total revenues). Although the actual bill impacts of these proposed changes on any particular customer class will vary based upon revenue allocation and rate design, the Companies state that a typical KEDNY residential heating customer will have a $30.95 average monthly bill increase and a typical KEDLI residential heating customer will have a $28.52 average monthly bill increase.

The Companies state that the rate increases are largely due to the need to invest in critical infrastructure to comply with Federal and State pipeline safety mandates, increased costs to deliver expanded energy efficiency and other demand reduction offerings, and economic factors such as rising cost of material due to inflation, increased contractor costs, and increases in property taxes. The Companies state that their rate filings are focused on delivering safe and reliable service, meeting the needs of customers, and advancing the fossil fuel emission reduction goals of the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). The Companies also propose a moderated program to effectively maintain the current pace of leak prone pipe replacements through a more targeted replacement strategy; aggressively repair gas leaks and target the repair of high-emitting leaks through the use of advanced leak detection technology; continue or expand customer oriented initiatives to ensure energy affordability, improve customer experience and maintain customer satisfaction; improve the resiliency of the distribution system by investing in automation, safety valves, and storm hardening projects; and continue or expand many CLCPA-supporting initiatives such as non-pipe alternatives, energy efficiency and demand response programs.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that public statement hearings will be held before Administrative Law Judges James A. Costello and/ or Maureen F. Leary on: DATE: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 LOCATION: Brooklyn Central Library The Dweck Center 10 Grand Army Plaza Brooklyn, New York 11238 TIME: Information Session 1:00 p.m.

Public Statement Hearing 1:30 p.m.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

DATE: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 LOCATION: Brooklyn Central Library The Dweck Center 10 Grand Army Plaza Brooklyn, New York 11238 TIME: Information Session 5:00 p.m.

Public Statement Hearing 5:30 p.m.

DATE: Tuesday, November 14, 2023 LOCATION: Oneness Pentecostal Tabernacle 198-01 Linden Boulevard Jamaica, New York 11412 TIME: Information Session 6:00 p.m.

Public Statement Hearing 6:30 p.m.

DATE: Wednesday, November 15, 2023 LOCATION: JCC of Staten Island Bernikow Building 1466 Manor Road Staten Island, New York 10314 TIME: Information Session 6:00 p.m.

Public Statement Hearing 6:30 p.m.

DATE: Wednesday, November 15, 2023 LOCATION: Peter J. Schmitt Memorial Legislative Chamber – 1st Floor Theodore Roosevelt Executive & Legislative Building, Executive and Legislative Building Room 103 1550 Franklin Avenue, Mineola, New York 11501 TIME: Information Session 6:00 p.m.

Public Statement Hearing 6:30 p.m.

A more comprehensive notice is available at: https://dps.ny.gov/notices.

Those wishing to comment on any aspect of these proceedings will have the opportunity to make a statement on the record before the ALJs. It is not necessary to make an appointment in advance, or present written material to speak at a hearing. Each public statement hearing will be held open until everyone who has registered to speak has been heard or other reasonable arrangements to submit comments have been made.

C M SQ page 39 Y K ©2023 M1P • CAMI-082588

82-17 153RD Ave., Suite 202, Howard Beach, NY 11414

718-835-4700 WWW.C21AMIABLE2.COM

• Howard Beach •

• Lindenwood • Lobby level studio! Newly painted, fl oors sanded, stained & polyurethaned. Large walk-in closet or storage area, plus double closet. Priced for quick sale, maint includes heat, hot water, cooking gas & RE taxes. Base maint: $411.01, security: $20.00, energy surcharge: $4.04= $435.05. Flip tax is $5/share.

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.

• Howard Beach •

Totally renovated storefronts for lease.

New roof, new fl ooring, freshly painted, new AC’s, handicap accessible bathrooms. Store 164-42 Cross Bay Blvd is 520 sq.ft., 10.4’x50’= $2,500/mo & 16444 Cross Bay Blvd is 1040 sq.ft., 16’x65’= $4,500/mo. Rent both stores for $6,300/ mo. 5 yr lease. Landlord pays base taxes, tenant only pays increase each year.

60 minute parking.

Broker/Owner

Get Your House

SOLD!

REAL ESTATE 161-14A Crossbay Blvd., Howard Beach (Brother’s Shopping Ctr.)

HOWARD BEACH/ HOWARD BEACH HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK BEACH Det. 1 Family, LINDENWOOD 2 Family Colonial 4 BRs, Brick Attached 2 Family Attached Brick, Move-In-Condition!

1 Bath, 40x100 - Great Investment 2 BD, 5/6 BRs, 2 Full Baths,

We Make Your Best Real Estate CONNEXION CONNEXIONREALESTATE.COM

English / Habla Espanol & Italiano Spoken Here

HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK

E OS CL

D!

Reduced $998K

E OS CL

HOWARD HOWARD BEACH/ BEACH/ LINDENWOOD LINDENWOOD

• Forest Hills •

Welcome to this unique studio apt w/ bonus room, currently used as a BR. Comfortably fits a queen-sized bed!!! Mint condition w/beautiful HW flrs, updated kitchen & bath. Plenty of closets & separate dressing room w/ lots of storage space. Historic bldg recently renovated. Offers laundry room, gym, community room, outdoor terrace, gorgeous garden, P/T doorman & live-in super. Pet friendly bldg. True gem!

BR has walk-in Closet

Asking $399K

Call us for a

Reduced $849K

FREE APPRAISAL of your Home, Condo or Co-op 718-845-1136

CL

E OS

D

!

Reduced $978K

HOWARD HOWARD BEACH/ BEACH/ MAGNOLIA ROCKWOOD ROCKWOOD PARK PARK COURT CONDO Colonial All Brick Mint, 2 BR, 5/6 BRs, 3 Full 2 Baths Hi-Ranch, Baths. 2 Car Gar. Det. in Yard, 4 Bedrooms, Basement, 2½ Baths, Private Driveway.

BEACH

Southgate Building, 2 BR, 2 Baths, ! !

D ! 11st Flo D Floor itth E Ewith ED OS OS OS L L L Terrace C C C

Asking $669K

A ki Asking $399K

A ki Asking $599K

O

CL

D SE

AAsking sking $849K

!

NE

IN

W

C

LIS

TIN

T ON

G!

RA

CT

!

$999K

HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, Nov. 5th 1:00 to 3:00PM 161-30 88th Street Beautiful Home. Hi-Ranch, 4 BRs, 3 New Full Baths, Quartz Counters in Kitchens, New Kitchens, Stainless Steel Appliances, White Cabinetry, Crown Molding Throughout, Wood Burning Fireplace in Lower Level, In-Ground Pool with Pavers, Outside Stucco & Flagstone Front.

Reduced $999K

BROOKLYN (Flatlands Ave.) 9 Year D! Old ConOL S struction / ST JU Strip Mall 26,260 sq. ft., 2 Story, Retail Proper ties 5 Storesfronts, 2nd Flr. - 12,000 sq. ft. Kidz Academy, Plus 15 Car Parking Lot

Sold $11.7M

CONR-082593

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Reduced $169K

D!

A ki Asking $838K

FAIRFIELD ARMS Southgate Condo Building 1 BR, 1 Full Bath 2 Br, 2 Full Baths + Co-op – Terrace, Parquet Floors, 3 Double Closets, Master Needs TLC

Brick/Frame Hi-Ranch on 40x100, 3 BRs, 2 Baths, Original Hi-Ranch Converted to Colonial With Mint Kitchen, Granite & S.S. Appliances, Sliding Door to Yard. Natural Gas Baseboard Heating Hot Water.

BEACH/ LINDENWOOD

2 Baths

718-845-1136 Lic. Broker Associate

• Lindenwood •

Spacious L-shaped 2 BR, 1 bath Co-op , generously proportioned rooms, providing comfortable & versatile living space.

Storage never a concern w/6 well-appointed closets placed throughout the home.

Freshly cleaned & painted, provides an excellent canvas for customization to suit personal style. One standout features is the outdoor terrace, offering a peaceful retreat for morning coffee or evening relaxation.

Properties!

Connexion We List and Sell Commercial HOWARD HOWARD HOWARD

ARLENE PACCHIANO

STEVEN PACCHIANO

• Lindenwood • Welcome to 84-10 153rd Avenue, Howard Beach. Beautiful L-shaped studio, just bring your clothes! Very spacious & cozy unit, washer & dryer on every fl oor. Maint: Base: $582.27, Security: $20.00, Energy Surcharge: $5.73= $608.00.

Page 39 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023

CENTURY 21 AMIABLE II

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, November 2, 2023 Page 40

C M SQ page 40 Y K

LUXURY

PAWNBROKERS

Gold Coins

Engagement Rings

AND JEWELRY, LLC

Gold Rings

Bring Us Your Gold Chains Gold Rings - Gold Bracelets Gold Coins

Gold Bracelets

Take Advantage of What Gold is Worth!

WE ARE

PAYING TOP DOLLAR Gold Necklaces Loose Diamonds

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Jewelry

Rolex Watches

Expert Jewelry & Watch Repair

Gold Teeth

We Also Give Cash Loans!

• GO OLD D • DIA AMON N DS • WATCHES • PLATINUM • ESTATE S • SILVE E RWARE E • COIN N S • ANTIQUES • MEMORABILIA • BASEB ALL C ARD DS

10%

PB License 2113211-DCA | SH License 2113210-DCA

Get Extra For Your GOLD!

150-03 CROSSBAY BLVD., OZONE PARK, NY 11417

With this coupon. Expires 11/30/2023.

HOURS OF OPERATION: Sunday: 11am - 6 pm Monday-Friday: 10am - 6pm • Saturday: Closed

Phone:

718-674-6017

Watch Batteries $ 99

4

With this coupon. Expires 11/30/2023.