Queens Chronicle 04-10-25

TASTE OF VICTORY

Some say warning notices unclear; DSNY says outreach ‘robust’ in Queens Composting rules rankling residents

Tby Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

he retired Queens resident knew that effective April 1, the citywide program of separating compostable organic material from regular garbage and placing it by the curb in a city-issue brown bin was mandatory.

Still, she was surprised to find a notice on her door saying she was not in compliance. While the city inspector left only a warning rather than a summons, she was rattled.

The Chronicle is withholding her name. Her doorbell camera showed the warning was posted shortly after 1 a.m. Two neighbors also were put on notice.

The only thing that was clear, she told the Chronicle, was the warning that any future violation could result in fines beginning at $25 and escalating in the future.

“The language — I have a doctorate and I don’t understand the language,” she said. “The words were, ‘You failed to comply with the laws explained below. You did not observe’ — these are the words — ‘organic was put out for collection which should be source separated.’ I don’t know what the words mean ... If you don’t know what’s broken, how do you fix it?”

She said the issue comes on top of her husband being ill, when she is taking over so much. It also came up right after she paid

about $100 for the city’s new mandatory garbage cans with sealing lids.

The King’s English version of recycling regulations requires that leaves and yard waste, food scraps and food-soiled paper be placed in the brown bin or another that can be sealed and is properly labeled — and the woman said she has had difficulty with ordering the labels online.

A day after the Chronicle first spoke with her, Councilman Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) said his office has received numerous similar complaints. He was far less diplomatic in his assessment when told about her concerns.

“That does not surprise me given the disastrous rollout of DSNY’s composting program,” Gennaro said. “Despite having made the announcement six months ago, there has been virtually no outreach or proper education campaign leading up to a change of this magnitude. Leave it to Mayor Adams and this Administration to take a good idea like composting and turn it into complete garbage.”

A spokesman for the DSNY, in an email, took issue with several points.

“[O]ur outreach work in recent months (or years, in the case of Queens) could not have been more robust. To summarize:

“

• Every New York City resident is receiving a clearly worded mailer on mandatory

curbside composting this week or last, with messaging tailored to low- vs. high-density housing. This marks at least the second mailer residents are receiving on mandatory composting.

“

• We have also engaged in more personalized outreach, beginning in Queens in 2022, including door knocking, traditional media, social media, and visits to Community Boards and civic groups. Much of this work was renewed last fall when composting became mandatory.

“

• We issued roughly 30,000 warnings citywide, which do not come with a fine but serve as a reminder that this has been the law since last October.”

The law about composting, he added, is the same as the one that has existed about recycling for more than 20 years, and is just extended to an additional type of waste.

“And, we have deliberately made composting easy. Property owners and residents do not have to overthink the rules: All food scraps, yard waste, and food soiled paper go out in a separate bin from trash, so they can be put to beneficial use instead of going to landfill. “

He said about 260 million pounds of material were diverted from landfills in the last two years when the program was limited to Queens and Brooklyn.

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The city’s new mandatory composting enforcement is being trashed by some as coming without sufficient information on how residents know fully how to comply. PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON

Officers recall heated workshop, discuss dropped dispensary bid CB 9 mulls KG jail, greets new members

by Owen Lavine Chronicle Contributor

Community Board 9 welcomed new board members at Tuesday night’s meeting.

Maricela Cano, Hillary Dvorkin, Vanessa Fuentes, Fahovi Noman, Ijaaz Rahim, Philip Ross, Harpreet Toor, Alyssa Velez and Keith Villanueva are the new members, although not all were present at Tuesday’s meeting. One board member blurted out “already absent” as the roll call for new members was called.

The board also paid homage to Lisa Gomes, the former district manager who died in January at the age of 65, and longtime CB 7 Chair Gene Kelty, who died at age 70 last month.

Later in the meeting, CB 9 First Vice Chair Andrew Taranto and Chair Sherry Algredo updated the board on their visit to the second design workshop for the Kew Gardens jail that was held on March 27.

“It was, frankly, a contentious meeting,” Taranto recalled. He added that representatives from the Department of Design and Construction told attendees their questions “fall outside the scope of their work.”

Algredo said the DDC would only answer questions “privately” at the meeting, referring to the

breakout groups that followed their presentation.

Taranto said that, in a follow-up Zoom meeting with the DDC, he asked officials to hold a forum with their partner agencies on the project, but has yet to get word on whether it will happen. He and other residents asked about the

traffic impacts of the jail, safety concerns and to whom the city planned to give contracts.

The jail, which is permitted to be up to 195 feet tall with 40 feet of clearance for utilities, is expected to cost $4 billion and be located at 126-02 82 Ave. It is expected to open in 2031, four

years behind schedule.

“This doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of how the tariffs in a potential economic downturn would affect the already delayed, over-budget situation,” Taranto added.

During the public comment period, resident Sol McCants testi-

fied against the jail.

McCants said the money should be used “for living wages” and funding education, including afterschool programs and adult education, as well as affordable housing, “instead of the BS where they’re putting out at 75-90 percent market rate.” He said using the money for those measures would “stem the rise in crime.”

The DDC was reached for comment but had yet to respond by press time.

District Manager James McClelland also briefed the board on the withdrawal of Alkalife LLC’s bid to open a cannabis dispensary at 82-66 Austin St. in Kew Gardens.

McClelland said the board received 36 emails opposing it and only two in favor. Right before the meeting, McClelland called the owner to tell him the news, only to find out the Office of Cannabis Management had rejected his license.

Algredo said many of the emails opposing the shop claimed it would affect other businesses, including restaurants, and quality of life in the neighborhood. Many board members applauded the announcement.

In other business, the board approved all applications for liquor and change of operations licenses. Q

A reelection sweep, crime updates, Floyd Bennett plans at meeting CB 10 officers are still familiar faces

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

After an uncontested nomination and a unanimous vote, Betty Braton will remain Community Board 10’s longtime chair.

During the election at the board’s monthly meeting last Thursday, which streamed live on YouTube, all officers were reelected to their respective positions. John Calcagnile will continue to serve as first vice chair; Isabel Van Putten as second vice chair; Nellie Santiago as treasurer; and Rosemary CiullaFrisone as executive secretary.

And as longtime members were once again tapped as leaders, recently appointed ones received a round of applause at the start

Longtime Community Board 10 Chair Betty Braton, left, was unanimously reelected last Thursday, along with the rest of the slate of officers.

of the meeting.

The 106th Precinct’s commanding officer, Capt. Berkeley Vantull, also reported that crime has continued to decrease for the third month in a row. The overall numbers are down by 11 percent, Vantull said, and the precinct has seen record lows compared to the same time last year, as well as two and five years ago.

“Some things that we’re still seeing issues with, obviously, are stolen vehicles,” he said.

“We do have some long-term investigations going on with some groups that we know are involved.” He urged attendees to do their “due diligence” with anti-theft measures, such as using protective locks on steering wheels.

Vantull said also that speeding vehicles and those with loud exhaust should be reported to 911, including the make, model and license plate if possible.

Phyllis Inserillo, chief of staff to Council-

woman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), said in her report that the lawmaker will introduce legislation to make the city’s mandatory composting collection voluntary. The Department of Sanitation last Tuesday began enforcing the rule citywide.

Terri Carta, executive director of the Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy, also spoke to the board about plans to reactivate Floyd Bennett Field, particularly Hangars 3 and 4. The proposal, Carta explained, includes plans to add food stalls, visitor information and a community gathering space in Hangar 3. Plans for Hangar 4 focus on bringing stakeholders, agencies and technologists together to find natural solutions to flooding.

“This vision has been talked about for a long time, and finally we’re at the point where it’s starting to happen in real life,” she said, adding that the National Park Service expects to rehabilitate the building’s exterior next year. Q

At its monthly meeting on Tuesday, CB 9 members shared updates about the jail facility slated for Kew Gardens and a withdrawn dispensary bid.

PHOTO BY OWEN LAVINE

Online lookup tool provides updates; chief tells Chronicle, ‘Change is hard’ Riders can access bus changes: MTA

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

T he Metropolitan Transportation Authority on Monday announced that riders can now see how and when the Queens Bus Network Redesign will affect their commutes.

A new tool at mta.info/queensbus allows customers to look up their routes and access information such as when and how they will change, as well as whether any stops have been removed.

“You can actually look on our website and see how your route has changed and how you should be adjusting your commute to be able to make sure you have the best seamless transportation,” New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow said at a Borough Hall press conference.

The plan, which will culminate in a total of 124 bus routes compared to the 113 that exist now, will roll out in two phases this summer. Phase One, beginning June 29, will see the launch of 16 new routes, 67 altered ones and five discontinued. One new route will debut in Phase Two on Aug. 31, while 37 will change and one will be canceled.

“We’re going to be working to move people very quickly from the neighborhoods right to Long Island Rail Road stations, to subway stations, so folks even who are in what we used to call the two-fare zone have a much better

commute,” MTA Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber said.

The plan also will invest $34 million per year more in service to create additional frequency and better, more direct connections, Lieber said. The agencies also are expanding 24/7 bus service, he added.

Crichlow said also that the new network will include 94 local and 30 express routes

that are more direct and allow for better connectivity. He said he is especially excited for the 25 new “rush routes,” which he likened to express trains that get riders to connecting points quickly.

He said the agency is working with the city Department of Transportation to update signage at bus stops to ensure that commuters are aware of the imminent changes.

“It’s a new day, so really go out, look up your route to make sure you’re informed at the end of the day,” Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said. “No one should be forced to endure long wait times, long commute times and packed buses.”

Lieber said city agencies have collected feedback at more than 250 outreach events over five years and incorporated 18,000 public comments into the plan.

Asked by the Chronicle what he would say to riders who worry that the changes might complicate their commutes, Lieber reiterated his belief that the redesign will provide faster, more reliable service and encouraged customers to give it a chance.

“Change is hard. When you move a bus stop, and there are some bus stop moves in here, there will be people who initially find that inconvenient,” he said. “But look, we’ve gotta give the whole thing a chance to play out and see if we really can capture the advantages that we really believe are buried in this. Remember, if we’re avoiding bad congestion areas, we can get people faster to where they want to go.”

When the Chronicle asked whether the agencies would give further consideration to the plan after its implementation has begun, Lieber said they will look for opportunities to tweak it over time. Q

need for clean infrastructure QBP, civic leaders oppose Con Ed hikes

Customers talk affordability;

by Stephanie G. Meditz

Associate Editor

Chants of “Freeze the rates” emanated throughout Borough Hall’s atrium at a Monday press conference hosted by Queens Borough President Donovan Richards to oppose Con Edison’s proposed rate increases.

The company in January announced that it is seeking state approval to raise customers’ electric and gas bills by 11.4 percent and 13.3 percent on average, respectively. If approved by the Public Service Commission, the new rates that would begin on Jan. 1, 2026 could cause customers who use 280 kilowatt-hours of electricity per month to see their bills rise from roughly $103.24 a month to $117.37. A residential customer paying $253.35 for 100 therms of gas per month would pay about $287.

“This will cause our residents to pay way more than they’re already paying for their basic needs in a time when most New Yorkers are living paycheck to paycheck,” Richards said. “Now is not the time to raise the utility costs, and that’s why we’re standing here today.”

Richards urged the utility to cancel the proposed increases, and if it does not, he reiterated Gov. Hochul’s statements that the PSC should reject them.

“Let me be clear, we appreciate Con Ed’s

utility cites

commitment to bringing cleaner, greener and more modern infrastructure to Queens,” he said. “But at the end of the day, Con Ed is worth more than $30 billion. Under no circumstance should a company that profitable be able to raise rates on hardworking New Yorkers to cover their costs.”

Richard Balancier of the 32BJ SEIU union said that although he has a good job with a living wage and benefits, his bills get higher each year.

“I pay more for food, more for rent, more for everything, actually, and Con Edison wants to raise our rates again,” Balancier said. “That’s a huge burden on me and the City of New York. Essential workers especially keep this city running. We work hard. All we ask is that we can make ends meet.”

Community Board 9 Chair Sherry Algredo said living in the five boroughs has become more and more unaffordable.

“We’re talking about affordable houses, but what is affordable when you can’t even afford to pay the utilities when you get into that affordable home?” Algredo said. “We need to work together and keep things affordable.”

A Con Ed spokesperson told the Chronicle that the utility is “acutely aware” of the issue of affordability, which is why it has given $300 million worth of discounts to

low-income customers.

“Nearly 27 percent of the proposed electric revenue increase and 14.5 percent of the proposed gas revenue increase result from the estimated property taxes on energy infrastructure our customers will pay in 2026,” the spokesperson said. “We welcome the opportunity to work with policy makers on directing that tax revenue back to lowincome customers to provide bill relief or

support clean energy programs.”

The utility also cited its responsibility to safely deliver reliable power, which means fortifying the grid against increasingly frequent extreme weather events and supporting the state’s clean energy goals.

January’s filing started an 11-month process during which the PSC will hear public testimony. Virtual hearings were scheduled to be held on Tuesday and Wednesday. Q

Flanked by NYC Transit President Demetrius Crichlow, left, and BP Donovan Richards, MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber said the Queens bus route redesign will speed up service. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ

Richard Balancier of the 32BJ SEIU union, at mic, discussed the rising cost of living at the Con Ed rate hike press conference held by Borough President Donovan Richards. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ

DOE tackles inequities with NYCPS initiative

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

The city on April 3 announced the launch of New York City Public Schools Cares, a suite of initiatives that aim to address systemic inequities in schools.

NYCPS Cares will launch with a multiphased rollout that includes the Family Connectors initiative and a student-led antibullying and anti-vaping campaign, the city Department of Education said.

The Family Connectors initiative is a “whole child” approach to boost academic achievement, improve attendance and reduce school-based violence by linking families to vital city services.

Relatives of students can apply to serve as a family connector — a trusted individual who supports other families in the school by providing information, resources and referrals to partner agencies and community-based organizations. Family connectors will undergo five weeks of training.

More information can be found at tinyurl.com/familyconnector.

The anti-bullying and anti-vaping initiative will begin in the 2025-26 school year, the DOE said, with design efforts begin-

ning this spring. The campaigns will be created by students. Through hands-on training, students will gain the knowledge and confidence they need to take a stand against bullying while inspiring healthier, safer environments.

The first phase of NYCPS Cares will focus 12 districts selected through an analysis of community needs, the DOE said.

District 24 — which encompasses Glendale, Ridgewood, Maspeth, Jackson Heights and Sunnyside — is the only Queens district currently included.

The DOE did not immediately respond to an inquiry about when the initiatives are expected to launch in other districts.

Schools Chancellor Melissa AvilesRamos in a statement said that having served two decades in the DOE, she knows firsthand that “our children cannot learn — and our parents cannot fully engage with their school community — when they are worried about safety, housing, or their next meal. NYCPS Cares is designed to confront these challenges head-on through a coordinated suite of initiatives and partnerships focused on the neighborhoods that need them most.” Q

year ’26 Council counters Adams’ budget plan

Proposes

$116.8B

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The City Council’s opening salvo in the budget battle with Mayor Adams claims more than $6 billion in available funding than the mayor forecast back in January.

The proposed $116.8 billion total adds $2.3 billion to Adams’ preliminary budget. But statements from Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica), Finance Chairman Justin Brannan (D-Brooklyn) and others acknowledge the very real possibility of massive cuts in federal aid from both the Trump administration and state budget negotiations that once again have gone past their April 1 deadline.

Published reports in Crain’s New York Business and the New York Post also say that the missed April 1 deadline for the New York State budget leaves the possibility of a $1 billion hole in funding for immigrant housing and support.

“Strengthening our communities by providing the investments New Yorkers deserve must be our priority in the city budget,” Speaker Adams said in a statement obtained from the Council’s official website. “The Council’s FY26 Preliminary Budget Response lays out a balanced, responsible, and forward-thinking path to prioritize the greatest needs in our city. Through investments in housing, childcare, mental health, public safety, libraries, and other key services for our neighborhoods, we can achieve the stability New Yorkers deserve.”

The new fiscal year begins July 1. The City Charter requires the new budget to be balanced and does not allow the government to go past the June 30 deadline.

The Council forecast identifies $3 billion more in tax revenues than the mayor’s January recommendations; up to $2.2 billion in “underspending”; and $1 billion from “other resources.”

The legislators’ plan calls for $4.4 billion in spending to remedy what it says is past underfunding for some items such as Pre-K

for fiscal

and 3-K programs; and to restore recent cuts to other programs.

They include $1.2 billion for capital and expense funding to expand housing programs; $1.6 billion for education initiatives; and $1.1 billion for healthcare.

A surplus of $1.9 billion would be added to reserve funds to help counter any cuts from Albany or Washington.

Deficits are projected at $4.2 billion for fiscal 2027; $5.4 billion for 2028; and $5.1 billion for 2029. Mayor Adams will send the Council his executive budget plan this month, leading to final negotiations.

A handful of Queens legislators backed their proposal and some of its particular contents in the Council’s statement.

“As we enter critical budget negotiations, the Council remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting vital programs that New Yorkers depend on — especially as we confront the threat of federal funding cuts,” said Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton).

She singled out a proposal to increase eligibility for half-priced MetroCards under the Fair Fares program.

Councilwoman Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) lauded the proposed restoration of mental healthcare funds.

“With ongoing uncertainty at the federal level, the Council remains committed to supporting proven solutions for mental health challenges affecting our most vulnerable residents,” she said.

“The Council’s Preliminary Budget response represents a robust investment in our City’s healthcare system ...” said Councilwoman Lynn Schulman, citing funding to increase access to public health programs in underserved areas and funding for concerns ranging from maternal health care to diabetes treatment.

Councilman Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) praised the document for its commitment to adding funding for the city’s parks Q

K-12 schools that maintain DEI practices would lose federal dollars U.S. DOE threatens to hold back funds

by Naeisha Rose Editor

Alternative facts is the name of the game, but the subject is interpretation of civil rights law and how it affects the education of youths of color in the Big Apple and throughout the country.

On April 3, the U.S. Department of Education issued a directive that kindergarten to grade 12 schools must sign and return a certification confirming that they are against diversity, equity and inclusion practices, or risk losing federal dollars.

President Trump’s position reinterprets Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits the discrimination on the basis of race, color and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.

Craig Trainor, acting secretary for civil rights, says that DEI programs discriminate against one group of Americans to favor another.

“In recent years, American educational institutions have discriminated against students on the basis of race, including white and Asian students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds and low-income families,” Trainor said in a “Dear Colleague” letter on the subject.

The NAACP’s Legal Defense Fund said the department’s incorrect interpretation of Title VI aims to stifle school districts’ lawful efforts to alleviate barriers to access and opportunity in education.

“The Trump Administration’s baseless directive ... is the latest in a series of attacks designed to undermine every student’s right to equal opportunity and instill an environment of chaos, fear, and uncertainty among our nation’s public schools,” said LDF Director of Policy Demetria McCain in a prepared statement. “Contrary to this letter’s vague and inaccurate language, many diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts remain lawful.”

McCain went on to say that too many Black students still face persistent barriers to equal opportunity more than 70 years after the critical gains that followed Brown v. Board of Education.

“Many of them continue to attend segregated schools where they lack access to proper funding, college preparatory courses, high quality instructional materials, and are subject to racially discriminatory discipline,” continued McCain. “For decades, schools across our

nation have relied on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts to improve civil rights compliance and student outcomes. We must continue to fight for an equitable educational landscape in which all students can thrive.”

State Sen. Joe Addabbo (D-Woodhaven), a member of the Education Committee, said there needs to be more dollars allocated for schools, not less.

“Children and their education transcend politics, and these unexpected, unforeseen federal cuts to educational funding are unacceptable,” Addabbo told the Chronicle via email. “I am committed to working on a state budget that prioritizes our students and seeks to provide our children with as much funding for education as possible.”

State Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) said by targeting K-12 public school funding, Trump once again shows that no low is too low in his ongoing assault on the country’s sacred democratic institutions.

“Threatening to pull vital funding from our nation’s most underserved schools over made-

up concerns about diversity, equity and inclusion is reprehensible and cruel,” Liu, another Education Committee member, told the Chronicle via email. “Every child in our country deserves a fair shot at success, and should never be used as a political bargaining chip.”

Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman (D-Oakland Gardens), a member of the Assembly’s Education Committee, told the Chronicle via email that the State Education Department will not comply with the U.S. DOE’s latest directive regarding the federal government’s interpretation of Title VI, as it believes it is already in compliance.

“Title VI is essential for protecting students from illegal discrimination, and New York State’s public education institutions are committed to this work,” Hyndman said. “It’s important to remember that Title VI originates from the federal Civil Rights Act of 1964. Unfortunately, we are now seeing the original intent of this law being distorted by individuals whose actions appear to lack a foundation in logic or reason.”

Monica Gutierrez, an education activist in Queens, told the Chronicle via email that Trump may want to withhold funds from K-12 schools to pressure states to abolish DEI practices but each state has its education laws, and the administration will most certainly be challenged in the courts across the country. Q

CONZA | MCNAMARA

PLANNING ATTORNEYS

EDWARD R. MCNAMARA, ESQ.

CYNTHIA J. CONZA, ESQ.

President Trump WHITE HOUSE PHOTO / FILE

EDITORIAL AGEP

Richards wrong to resort to race

Borough President Donovan Richards cannot read the minds of his constituents or see into their hearts, but he sometimes acts as if he can. And the result coarsens the debate.

Amid all the uproar over concerts at Forest Hills Stadium, and the noise and other quality-of-life problems they create for the people who live in the immediate area, Richards last week said, without evidence, that racism is the reason people oppose the shows.

Many people in Forest Hills, and especially in Forest Hills Gardens, where the stadium is located, have been opposed to the concerts since they started up again in 2013. And many more people have become opposed since the number of shows increased greatly the last few years. Last year more than 30 were held.

But Richards seems to believe the real reason people object to the concerts is racism. Facing criticism on the social media platform X over his handling of the concert controversy, Richards posted, “Just mad black people are in your community for concerts.” Referencing a hip-hop show, he continued, “After Rock The Bells is when you got hyper!!! We are here to stay.”

And he told the publication Gothamist that it was “very apparent” to him that not everyone appreciates Queens’ diversity.

Then, when someone criticized him for falling back on race instead of dealing with the actual issue at hand, Richards doubled

down. “We don’t respond to racism!!!” he posted.

Three exclamation points? Really? Twice? Like, OMG!

Racism is not the issue here. As one resident posted, shows featuring electronic dance music or “white frat boy bands” draw more complaints than rap concerts do. The issue is the noise from the concerts, the number of concerts, the trash left behind on Gardens streets and the fact the shows run later than the agreed-upon time.

Luckily for the Gardens residents who oppose the concerts, the residents have a mighty tool available. They live on private streets, so the police need their permission to grant the permits that allow the shows to go on. Richards doesn’t like that, either. But now the Forest Hills Gardens Corp. is offering professional mediation as a path forward, and stadium management reportedly has agreed.

So instead of Richards’ claims of racism, which themselves reveal a racialist outlook, we may have a resolution.

We’ve been here before with Richards. In November 2022 he said Councilman Bob Holden represents “white supremacy” in an argument over the Maspeth lawmaker’s opposition to congestion pricing. The borough president needs to be more responsible and measured in his comments. He represents the entire diverse borough, not just his old Council district in Southeast Queens. And he should help solve the stadium issue, not insult his constituents.

BESS to move

We’re glad that NineDot Energy, which builds battery energy storage systems, is not wedded to putting one at 64-30 69 Place in Middle Village. Because the community’s answer is guaranteed to be heck, no!

The site is across the street from a school and steps away from a kids’ party venue and a daycare. That’s not a place for something potentially combustible.

NineDot insists its BESS facilities are safe. Maybe they are; no doubt the technology is improving. But it was only in January that a huge BESS in California burned, causing mass evacuations and at least one school closure. Lithium-ion battery fires are incredibly hard to deal with. Why take a chance? Just put the battery facilities in industrial areas. Queens has plenty, some near the MidVille site.. NineDot should drop this application.

MARK WEIDLER

President & Publisher

SUSAN & STANLEY MERZON Founders

Raymond G. Sito General Manager

Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Congrats on awards

Dear Editor:

My accolades to you: “Chronicle wins four awards in contest,” March 27.

As you celebrate this recognition, it also means so much to us as your readers.

Continue your excellence in keeping us informed. I look forward to each publication and wish you continued success as you move forward.

Dorothy Gist Oakland Gardens

City hides jails’ true cost

Dear Editor:

The story “Neighbors of Queens Jail Demand Answers” (March 28, qchron.com) does not mention anything about the full cost of all four planned jails.

The city finally updated the estimated cost of the four jails from $8.7 billion (a figure that remained essentially unchanged from 2019) to $16 billion in 2024, with the Queens jail estimated to cost $3.9 billion. However, these figures do not include the financing costs.

Assuming the jails will be financed with NYC general obligation tax-exempt bonds, the Kew Gardens Civic Association estimates the ultimate costs will be closer to $27.8 billion, assuming 30-year bonds paying 4 percent. This equates to $6.7 million per bed, assuming a total of 4,160 inmates. The cost for the Queens jail

alone will be $6.8 billion or $6.5 million per bed. These figures don’t include any cost increases associated with the Trump tariffs, any deterioration in NYC’s bond rating or any elimination of the tax exemption for municipal bonds, which is being discussed by some in Congress.

Neither the city nor any of the elected officials who support the jail want to discuss this. Is this really the best use of city bonding capacity when there are more cost effective alternatives and other critical infrastructure and social needs? In this election year, candidates, whether incumbents seeking reelection or newcomers, should be grilled as to their position on spending this enormous amount of money on jails.

When will the city stop hiding this information?

Dominick Pistone

President, Kew Gardens Civic Association Kew Gardens

Editorial needs some work

Dear Editor:

Re “Repave 63rd Drive, and all these other streets,” Editorial, April 4:

Your editorial offers a lot of criticism of the DOT’s highly effective approaches to reducing traffic crashes, calling them “dopey plastic posts” and categorizing these changes as “social engineering.” Which is ironic, because multiple studies have shown that things like plastic posts, dopey as they may seem, reduce traffic deaths and injuries significantly. No studies whatsoever have found evidence that repaving roads will somehow reduce crashes on city streets.

And your idea that in the complete absence of intelligent roadway design, we will somehow convince drivers to change their behavior? That’s textbook social engineering.

Roger Cost Jackson Heights

Repave Woodhaven now

Dear Editor:

I enjoyed your editorial regarding the repaving of Queens streets (“Repave 63r d Drive, and all these other streets,” April 4). Unfortunately, there are many streets to be done in our borough.

As a frequent rider of all the Woodhaven

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Boulevard buses (Q11, 21, 52 and 53), I can cite one spot that stands out in particular as needing to be repaved. That would be the section between 101st Avenue and Rockaway Boulevard, at the end of Woodhaven Boulevard. The pavement on both sides of the street is horrible.

I hope that the Department of Transportation takes care of this ASAP, before a major accident occurs there.

John Lynch Middle Village

Save energy tax breaks

Dear

Editor:

When members of Congress face tough decisions, that’s when the voters they represent need to light up their phones.

Right now, Republicans in the House are struggling to find budget items they can erase for the sake of President Trump’s tax cuts.

Some representatives are taking aim at the clean energy tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act. The law passed in 2022 with no Republican support, so it may seem the perfect place to claw back grants intended to boost clean energy and cut greenhouse gases. The trouble is, the IRA has spurred massive private investment in wind, solar, batteries and manufacturing, with almost 80 percent of the spending going to Republican-held districts, including several in New York.

Repealing the incentives in the IRA would bring many projects to a halt, costing good jobs and causing household electric bills to climb over the next decade. It would also mean consumers losing out on tax credits for making energy-saving purchases and home improvements. The IRA was the biggest climate bill ever passed in the United States, but to realize all its benefits, we need Congress to protect it. Those investments are needed now more than ever. The climate crisis isn’t going to go away just because some people turn a blind eye to it.

Sienna Daviau Manhattan

The writer is a volunteer with Citizens’ Climate Lobby.

Tariffs may work out

Dear Editor:

Every thoughtful person knows that the social sciences are extremely subjective. What people decide to study, the methods they use and even their interpretations are all influenced by their preconceptions. Economics and politics are particularly subject to these distortions. With this in mind, I will hazard some guesses, about the effects of President Trump’s tariffs. The majority of columnists and pundits have taken the position that they will harm the middle and working classes. They may be right, but there’s another way to look at this. Most of what ordinary people spend money on is not subjected to tariffs. Our mortgage or rent does not increase as a result of tariffs. Since most food and energy is produced in America, the tariffs will have very little effect on these major purchases. If someone must buy a car this year, he or she can buy one made in America. Even many foreign models are made in our country. Certain items, less frequently purchased, will probably be affected by tariffs. TVs, com-

puters and clothing come to mind. However, these items, with the exception of clothes, are not purchased every year. Since many of our clothes are made in Vietnam and Malaysia, and since these countries seem willing to negotiate their tariffs with us, clothing may not be an issue. Decreasing taxes, which, for many people in New York, are a major expenditure in their budget, will also soften the blow of tariffs on goods.

China has recently decided on 34 percent tariffs on American goods. Since most of what they buy from us is pork, chicken, soybeans and rice, their people will probably be much more affected by their tariffs than we will be by ours. Apparently communists do not much care if their people starve as long as they maintain ideological purity.

In the long run, we’ll just have to wait and see how these things turn out, but I am not as pessimistic as the columnists or pundits.

Michael Gallagher Forest Hills

Dump tariff man Trump

Dear Editor:

President Trump thinks “tariffs” is the best word in the dictionary. How about “disposal,” which means getting rid of something that is unwanted or useless, which would apply to him?

Ray Hackinson Ozone Park

Provide more, not less

Dear Editor:

I have questions about the whole idea of cutting government spending. Here is just one: How much money for people eligible for food stamps just goes unclaimed? One more: How many people who are eligible for the earned income tax credit don’t take it?

Are we creating a false narrative of government waste when in fact it’s the other way around, that government programs are actually underused and don’t need cuts, and using them would cut into issues of cutting poverty? On the flip side, what if not by raising taxes on the top 1 percent of the tax bracket, if we just collected unpaid taxes from them — just collected what’s owed — we could narrow the income and poverty gap?

It’s where you shine the light and who controls where the light is shown as a distraction. This is exactly what is going on.

Stew Frimer Forest Hills

Can’t DOGE the issue

Dear Editor:

Starting in 2025, the most used word in America will be “representative” once DOGE, the “Department of Government Efficiency,” reduces the number of humans in government service and replaces them with computer-generated assistance.

“Representative? OK, the average wait-time is 45 minutes. Enjoy the music!”

HOLY WEEK MASS SCHEDULE

*PALM SUNDAY, April 13th Sat. Vigil Mass 4:00 pm Sun. 8:30 am, 10:30 am &12:00 pm

*RECONCILIATION MONDAY, April 14th

*Confessions: 10:00-11:00am 2:00 pm -4:00 pm 6:00 pm -9:00 pm

*SPY WEDNESDAY-, April 16th

Tenebrae -7:00 pm.

*THURSDAY, April 17th

Morning Prayer -9:00 am

*Mass of the Lord’s Supper -7:00 pm. The Church will be open until midnight

*GOOD FRIDAY, April 18th

Morning Prayer -9:00 am Passion of the Lord 3:00 pm

7:00 pm Procession of the “ Dead Christ and the Sorrowful Mother”.

*HOLY SATURDAY, April 19th

10:00 am Consoling the Mother of Sorrow’s

*11:00 am Blessing of the food baskets. Food that will be served at your Easter table will be blessed on this day.

*7:30 pm Easter Vigil

*After the Easter Vigil there will be a Resurrection Celebration. All are welcome.

*EASTER SUNDAY, April 20th*

8:30 am, 10:00 am, 11:30 am & 1:00 pm

*DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY, April 27th

8:30 am & 10:30 am Mass No 12:00 pm Mass

2:00 pm Procession with the image of the Divine Mercy followed by Consecration, Litany and Chaplet followed by Mass at 3:00 pm

QBP sees ‘racism’ in concert opposition

Richards on X alleges prejudice in stadium complaints amid lawsuit

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards last week suggested on X that some neighbors’ opposition to concerts at Forest Hills Stadium stems from racism.

Amid legal battles with the West Side Tennis Club, which houses the venue, the Forest Hills Gardens Corp. recently denied the city access to the surrounding private streets, effectively blocking the NYPD’s Legal Bureau from granting the necessary permits to hold events there.

The move prompted Richards to write a March 28 letter to Mayor Adams urging the city to reconsider that decision and find a solution that would let the stadium operate as usual, citing a potential loss of revenue and other repercussions for stadium employees, concertgoers, artists and nearby businesses alike.

“To allow a minute number of individuals — representing a small fraction of the local community’s population — to shutter one of New York City’s most iconic and economically vital concert venues, simply by threatening legal action against the City, would be shortsighted and destructive,” he wrote.

But when he shared his views on X, some users, including Jenna Cavuto (@allabouttheyet), questioned the ways in which he is

“making sure negotiations occur in good faith” and engaging with the community.

“Just mad black people are in your community for concerts,” Richards replied to her post, adding that opponents “got hyper” after the Rock the Bells hip-hop festival came to the venue. The show debuted at the stadium in August 2022 and returned the following year.

He told Gothamist that the festival’s audience was largely African American and that it was “very apparent” to him that not everyone wants to see the diversity for which Queens is known.

Several replies to the post accused him of “pulling out the race card.” One response from the user @queens_parents said it is not “racist” to want to exercise one’s right to quiet enjoyment of his or her home, adding that “EDM or white frat boy bands” prompt the most complaints from neighbors.

“We don’t respond to racism!!!” Richards added under his post.

The FHGC, which filed its complaint against the stadium in May 2023, told the Chronicle in a statement that its dispute with the venue is not about race and that efforts to frame it as such are “unfortunate and unproductive.” It also clarified that its legal battles are not with the NYPD.

“Our primary concern has always been minimizing harm to the surrounding commu-

nity,” the group said. “This includes addressing legitimate concerns around noise, crowd and traffic management, sanitation, and access to homes and businesses, among others. These issues must be thoughtfully resolved to ensure a successful concert season.”

It also issued a press release in response to Richards’ letter to the mayor, claiming that his “mere assertions” of the concerts’ economic benefit are “unsupported” and calling for a comprehensive economic impact study on their positive and negative effects.

Asked for comment, a spokesperson for Richards reiterated his sentiment that an “overwhelming majority” of community residents support concerts at the stadium.

“While we acknowledge that a relative handful of residents face real impacts as a result of the concert series, under no circumstance is the answer to hold the wider community’s economic and cultural vitality hostage,” the spokesperson said. “We encourage these individuals to finally come to the table, negotiate in good faith with all parties involved and work with us to uplift Forest Hills and the borough as a whole.”

The FHGC said it has offered professional mediation as a path forward, to which the West Side Tennis Club agreed.

“We look forward to good-faith negotiations to find solutions that respect all stakeholders,” the group said.

Akiva Shapiro of Gibson Dunn, the stadium’s counsel, said previously that the venue is preparing for its 2025 concert season to go on as planned. The first show by rock band Bloc Party is slated for May 31. Q

Mayor will run as an independent

Adams is set to announce name of his new public safety-oriented party

by Naeisha Rose Editor

Just a day after his corruption charges were dismissed on April 2, Mayor Adams announced that he would be running as an independent for his re-election bid and mounting a campaign under a new public safety oriented party.

With former Gov. Andrew Cuomo taking the lead within the Democratic Party and garnering the endorsement of the Queens Democratic Party, and Democratic Socialist Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) outpacing Adams in fundraising, it’s not a surprise the mayor — formerly of South Jamaica — would run on his own party line. He is expected to announce the new line soon, according to multiple reports.

way platform, they don’t expect a political party to help, they want leadership from a person who understands their struggle and their stories.

“There isn’t a liberal or conservative way to fix New York, but there is a right way and a wrong way. And true leaders don’t just know the right path; they have the guts to take it. I’ve always put New York’s people before politics and party, and I always will.”

“New Yorkers are strong and they deserve strong leadership,” Adams said in a campaign video posted on X. “When New Yorkers worry about their bills at the kitchen table or feeling safe on a sub-

Mamdani, a far-left candidate, will also have the opportunity to run for the New York Working Families Party line, alongside other Democratic hopefuls, such as City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica), who was raised in Hollis, City Comptroller Brad Lander and state Sen. Zellnor Myrie (D-Brooklyn).

The progressive party endorsed all four candidates last month.

Surprisingly, the WFP did not endorse the pro-labor candidate state Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jack-

After seeing his corruption charges dropped, Mayor Adams announced that he will no longer seek a second mayoral bid as a Democrat, but instead as an independent. SCREENSHOT VIA ERIC ADAMS FOR NYC / X

son Heights), who represents another part of Western Queens.

estimated balance of $55,346. Sliwa is the founder of the Guardian Angels, an anti-crime organization. Sliwa was also the 2021 Republican candidate. Also running on the GOP side is Pastor James Manning, who has a balance of $31,444. Jim Walden, a trial lawyer and former assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, is also running as an independent. He has $1,077,681 in funds.

Adams has until the end of May to submit 3,750 signatures to secure a place on the November ballot under his new party, according to campaign rules.

Petitioning to get on the ballot for the Democratic and Republican parties ends today.

Primaries are June 24. Early voting is from June 14 to 22. The general election will be held on Nov. 4.

Running on the Republican ticket is Curtis Sliwa, who has an

With a campaign balance of $1,039, Ramos trails behind the speaker ($276,256), Cuomo ($1,225,378) Myrie ($2,351,024), Mamdani ($3,672,618) and Lander ($3,741,566), according to finance records. She also trails behind Adams ($3,024,332), despite the embattled mayor being ineligible for matching funds.

“Ultimately, it will be up to you who runs this city for the next four years,” Adams said in his video. “As someone who has always fought for you and who is accountable to only you, I hope I can earn your vote.” Q

BP Donovan Richards on X last week said some neighbors’ complaints about Forest Hills Stadium stem from racism, a claim denied by the FHGC. PHOTO BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE

Gleeful grooves at Oak Ridge

Seniors in District 32 had a blast Wednesday during the annual senior prom hosted by Councilwoman Joann Ariola at Oak Ridge in Forest Park.

The event helps foster socialization with the district’s senior population, who were treated to delicious food and lively music, and danced the afternoon away.

“Oh what a Senior Prom we had today!” Ariola, at lower right with her constituent

and community advocate John Pikul, wrote on social media.

She thanked the event’s sponsors, Brina Ciaramella and Tony Modafferi, lower left, and Nick the Balloonatic, Lenny’s Clam Bar, Gino’s Pizza and Villa Russo, for their help in creating an afternoon to remember.

“We are just getting started with our spring and summer events!” Ariola said.

— Kristen Guglielmo

Paper shredding at RWNYC

April is Earth Month, a period dedicated to raising awareness about various environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices.

Resorts World New York City, at 11000 Rockaway Blvd. in South Ozone Park, is encouraging the community to do its part this month by hosting a paper shredding event, a convenient and free way to dispose of unneeded sensitive documents.

On Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the A1 parking lot, all are encouraged to drop off old paper documents for secure disposal and recycling.

No appointments are needed and all staples and paper clips should be removed prior to shredding.

Contact Stephanie Yeh at (917) 5991394 or stephanie.yeh@rwnewyork.com for more information.

Shredding offers better privacy as opposed to traditional recycling, as it keeps thieves and scam artists from accessing personal or classified information from documents such as bank statements, credit card applications and legal forms and tax forms. Q

— Kristen Guglielmo

Queens fans root for the home team

Fans’ cheers rivaled the roar of the 7 train last Friday at the Mets’ sold-out home opener, in which they dominated the Toronto Blue Jays 5-0.

At top right, the duo of Christopher and Christopher Diaz and the Miller family of Woodside stand in their team gear at Citi Field. To their left, Mike and Sean Wallace and Billy Caruso of College Point arrived bright and early for the game.

At center left, Bobby Amos of Woodside picked a good day to celebrate Juan Soto — the newcomer got his first Citi Field hit as a Met. Jamaica native Kenny Urla and Aaron Manning of Jackson Heights suited up for the game in full blue and orange gear. Joe DiDomenico of Corona opted for a black ensemble highlighted by the Mets’ signature shades for the game. Robert Hattauer of For-

est Hills put his fastball to the test at the first Citi Field block party of the season.

Though the opening day ceremonies were mostly pomp and circumstance, the ballpark paused to honor America, Canada and legends who have died, at above left. Jennifer and Owen Ruton of Glendale donned jerseys and “OMG” memorabilia to support the Amazin’s. Blanche and Ralph Hatwood came to the stadium from Rosedale to bask in the Opening Day energy.

At right, Angel Livreri of Woodside took her daughter, Leni, out to the ballgame. Rockaway Beach’s Joie Fadde dressed to impress and exemplify team spirit with his pinstriped overalls, massive chain, creative headgear and, of course, his classic Mets cap. — Stephanie G. Meditz

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE

G. MEDITZ

began Slome, 100, is one of Winton’s Children

Flushing woman one of 669

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Hanna Slome of Flushing will celebrate her 100th birthday on April 11, and last weekend, U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) and Councilwoman Sandra Ung (D-Flushing) paid her visits to help her celebrate and present her with proclamations from their august chambers.

Even more remarkable is the story of how she was an unwitting part of history as a teenager in her native Czechoslovakia long before ever coming to the United States.

Slome and 668 other children, mostly Czech Jews, escaped the Holocaust in 1939 because of Sir Nicholas Winton, a British stockbroker, and a team of his friends and acquaintances who worked on the ground in Prague to compile lists of children in danger with Nazi Germany annexing countries and World War II only months away.

The effort came to be known to history as the “Kindertransport.” They pushed through the paperwork, found sponsors for the children in England and Sweden and made trav-

el arrangements.

Winton died in 2015 at the age of 106. His son, Nick, came from England to join Meng for her presentation to Slome.

She immigrated to the United States in 1944 and married Henry Slome in 1948. Settling in Flushing, she now has two children, seven grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. She was active in education and religious organizations, including serving a term as president of the PTA of JHS 185.

“I am proud to commend and recognize Hanna for a century of courage, service and inspiration,” said Meng in a press release. “Her message of resilience and hope continues to inspire generations and will do so for many years to come. It is an honor and privilege to wish her a very happy 100th birthday and I send her my warmest congratulations.”

“Hanna is a living link to history, and her experiences remind us of the resilience of the human spirit,” said Ung. “Her commitment to giving back to her community and her passion for life, whether through her love of travel, cuisine, or simply

Czech kids

rescued just before WWII

tending to her beautiful garden, is something we can all admire. It is truly a privilege to celebrate her 100th birthday.”

The work of Winton and his friends did not become widely

known until 1988, when his wife found an old scrapbook in their attic. Invited to be a guest audience member on a British television show later that year, Winton was startled to learn that every other member of the studio audience was a child he had saved or the child or grandchild of one of “Winton’s Children.” He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2003. A statue of him is on display in Prague’s main train station. Q

Wishing Everyone Everyone A Joyous Passover!

Hanna Slome with Nick Winton and Rep. Grace Meng, above, and with her family and Councilwoman Sandra Ung, right. PHOTOS COURTESY U.S. HOUSE, LEFT, AND NYC COUNCIL

South Richmond Hill folks sound off

They want pickleball, concerts and more at Phil Rizzuto Park

by Naeisha Rose Editor

More than 20 people attended a Zoom visioning session about the upgrades being made to Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park in South Richmond Hill on Monday.

Residents of the area, alongside members of Friends of Phil Rizzuto “Smokey” Park, Community Board 9 and other organizations, made sure their voices were heard.

The 4.35-acre park was acquired 87 years ago and was first named Smokey Oval Park, a reference to the soot-filled Long Island Rail Road terminus it was near. It was later renamed Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park, after the New York Yankees shortstop and announcer, in 2008, according to the Parks Department website. Rizzuto attended Richmond Hill High School.

Borough President Donovan Richards ($3 million in fiscal year 2024) and state Sen. James Sanders Jr. ($750,000 in fiscal year 2025), via a Dormitory Authority of the State of New York grant, allocated $3.75 million for a new adult fitness area, along with the reconstruction of basketball and handball courts at the park, said Lori Polizzi, assistant to the Queens Borough Parks commissioner, via email.

At the department’s online meeting, Bill Knight, a Smokey Park steward, said the group is in the early stages of creating a basketball team, which may lead to a league. He inquired if the new surface of the basketball court could be similar to one near the Brooklyn waterfront that was upgraded and can be utilized in inclement weather.

Knight also said that, along with the youths in the area, the group is interested in the health of seniors,

and wants fitness equipment to be accessible to that age group, too.

Aleena Knight, of the 95th Ave S. Richmond Hill Block Association, shared her husband’s sentiment and said mental health is a problem with some of the seniors and she would like a sensory component to the upgrades.

“If there is some way we can have some of the equipment focused on strengthening their ability to walk,” she said. “When they have strokes, it is very hard for them to move. It shouldn’t be totally geared to people who can use the equipment, it should also be geared to people who are challenged.”

Eric Mattes, the Queens team leader for Parks, said he welcomed their feedback.

“So you want to make sure the equipment is diverse for everybody in the community,” said Mattes. “We can certainly take that into account.”

Mattes said the department can provide shade to the courts, but there might not be enough funding for the type of basketball surface Knight was inquiring about.

concerns about the noise factor.

Stacey Yearwood, a Richmond Hill resident and CB 9 member, who is interested in seeing a pickleball court, asked if the department looked into acoustic panels or sound absorbing materials to reduce noise impact for the neighbors close by to the park.

Knight also asked if one side of the two handball courts could be converted into a pickleball court.

“That seems to be a very upand-coming and very popular activity in other parts of New York City,” said Knight.

Mattes said he would look into it as many people from different factions in the area have expressed interest in the sport, but some have

“That is very difficult to do with limited space,” said Mattes. “Sometimes we try to do a planting bed and sometimes we plant evergreens; that gives a bit of noise reduction, but not much. Because the space is so small, it is really difficult. The Parks Department doesn’t want to put in anything opaque because we want to make sure there are visible sightlines into the park at all times.”

Mattes said in previous projects, the court was in the interior of the park as opposed to the edge to prevent reverberating noises, but the size of Rizzuto Park might make that difficult.

When asked by the Chronicle if plantings could also act as a bioswale or ditch for storm runoff, he said different types of planting would have to be used for that and there might not be space. However, the site would be designed to collect stormwater before it is released into the regular drain system.

CB 9 District Manager James McClelland asked if his board could get copies of what all the equipment options look like so the group could know what is available

to them.

Mattes said he would provide that information at the next board meeting.

Yearwood asked if the handball courts would get new walls, but Mattes said the old walls will be reconstructed if they are in poor condition.

“The only new structure perhaps will be the fencing, the fencing around the handball courts,” said Mattes.

Knight said that she thinks the wall is in pretty good shape, but work needs to be done on the ground. Mattes said the pavement will be worked on.

Her husband asked about seating arrangements near the courts and the park’s fencing.

“We will take into account seating and drinking fountains,” said Mattes. “We want to make sure the seating is accessible, so we always provide companion seating so that when we have two benches we don’t put them together. We leave a space for somebody who is either in a wheelchair or somebody who has a stroller.”

There also will be security lighting near the adult fitness equipment and other parts of the park that are being worked on. In addition, Parks will be looking into new trees for the park.

When asked by the Chronicle about security lights, Mattes said the community would have to reach out to the city Department of Transportation for that, and the NYPD would decide if it is possible to install the cameras there.

Knight also asked about sports lighting, but Mattes told him that might not be in the budget and could become an issue at night and result in spillover light for neigh-

bors trying to sleep.

Paul Trust, a Richmond Hill resident and member of QueensLink, a group fighting for the Rockaway Beach Branch rail line to be restored, inquired if there will be electricity near the handball courts similar to Travers Park in Jackson Heights.

“It would be nice if there is an opportunity to do a summer concert series,” said Trust. “If this is ever considered for a stage area, it would be nice if we had the option to have electricity nearby.”

Mattes said it’s something Parks would look into, but cost would be a major factor as the borough would be responsible for it.

“We would have to work closely with Con Edison ... It’s what they call a metered system,” said Mattes. “The borough is on the hook for being able to maintain it and making sure that it is secured and doesn’t get vandalized.”

Knight said she believes the park is too small, and noise has been an issue before for residents, so it may not be the best site for concerts.

Jim Mituzas, a designer for Parks, said shovels are expected to hit the ground two years from Monday night.

“We are already done with project initiation,” said Mituzas. “Next up is the design phase, which will take 10 to 15 months. Before the bidding and award phase that is nine to 12 months, which will be followed by the construction phase that is 12 to 18 months, external permitting needs to happen. “We have to get permits from [the Department of Environmental Protection and the state Department of Environmental Conservation] and all the different agencies that regulate and look at our work.”

An example of what the new adult equipment could look like at Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park based on upgrades at Joseph Petrosino Park in Brooklyn, above.

PHOTOS COURTESY NYC PARKS

Existing adult fitness equipment at Phil “Scooter” Rizzuto Park.

A renovated Morningside Heights Playground basketball court in Manhattan.

loves

by Peter C. Mastrosimone

Ask Ricky Byrd what type of sound he went for on his new album, and the answer comes fast: “Straight-up rock ’n’ roll.”

And that’s just what you’ll get on “NYC Made,” the record he released on vinyl, CD and digitally March 28. The album is almost an anthology of rock since its birth, sometimes explicitly but more often subtly.

It’s fast, and it’s great, loaded with catchy guitar riffs, some elaborate solos and lyrics about the usual rock themes, tempered by the wisdom that comes with age.

The tone is set immediately, as the first track, “(Ya Get) 1 Life” begins with an alarm clock ringing and jumps right into Byrd’s signature hardrock guitar, with a handful of styles evident in the first few bars alone.

Queens’ own drops album you need to hear Ricky Byrd

The lyrics match the sound perfectly: “Wake up baby / Open them big brown eyes / ’Cause time is a wastin’ / Rise and shine.” And the theme continues: “The years they fly by quickly / And that ain’t no lie / Ya get one life / Go on ... take it for a ride.”

The riffs are a great indication of what’s to be found on the whole album: an eclectic mix of styles that Byrd stitches together nicely. A classic rock fan might immediately hear echoes of Peter Frampton and his talking guitar style, the glassy tones of George Harrison in The Beatles’ final days and more — in just one song.

That only makes sense: Frampton is one of Byrd’s many acknowledged influences and the boys from Liverpool are among the bands he alludes to on “Transistor Radio Childhood,” a

great song evoking life for a young music fan in mid-1960s NYC.

Byrd was born a few years after rock ’n’ roll was, growing up first in the Bronx and then Queens, where he graduated from Flushing High School. He still lives here today, in another part of the borough.

Always a skilled axeman, and vocalist, Byrd was in a band playing serious clubs as a teenager in the 1970s, as recalled on the “NYC Made” track “Sweet Byrd of Youte.”

He found the heights of rock fame in the early 1980s as lead guitarist for Joan Jett and the Blackhearts. That’s him playing those

continued on page 19

King Crossword Puzzle

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

Art Spiegelman drew upon his life in Rego Park

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Wladek (William) and wife Andzia (Anna) Szpigelman (Spiegelman) arrived at Auschwitz in March 1944 to perform forced labor. His skill as a master plumber may be what kept him alive. Upon liberation, they moved to Stockholm, Sweden, where their son Itzhak Avraham ben Zeev was born on Feb. 15, 1948. The family left Sweden on the MS Gripsholm, arriving in America on Oct. 15, 1950.

They settled into a small house Rego Park at 63-12 Carlton St. Itzhak at age 12 in 1960 started developing his career as a cartoonist, inspired by his love of Mad magazine. He successfully published underground counter culture comix as Art Spiegelman. 1968 was a bad year for him: As a frequent LSD user he suffered a nervous breakdown. After his release from a mental hospital his mother committed suicide. He gained fame working for the Topps trading card

Composting

continued from page 2

“We look forward to continuing to boost these numbers,” he email said. “And any residents with questions should call 311 for more information.”

The office of Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) supports the program, but also the type of follow-through that the Chronicle’s source and Councilman Gennaro are seeking.

“Composting is an essential step toward a cleaner and more sustainable city,” the Speaker’s Office said in an email. “A successful citywide composting program

depends on strong outreach and education efforts. The Administration must do more to ensure that all New Yorkers understand how to participate in this program and why it matters.”

Gennaro added that the enforcement went into place just before millions of residents will be celebrating Easter and Passover, often with a great deal of food, with what he reiterated is his belief that there has been insufficient education from the city.

“It’s like the blind leading the blind, and this is clearly not the right time for implementation of fines,” he said, calling on Mayor Adams and Acting DSNY Commissioner Javier Lojan to put a pause on enforcement until any problems are addressed. Q

Congestion deal or no deal

Depending on whom you ask, New York State and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority have negotiated a deal with the Trump administration that will keep congestion pricing cameras on until at least some time this coming fall, when federal Judge Leo Gordon is expected to rule on the matter.

Or, if one checks the U.S. Department of Transportation’s rapid response page on X, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is holding fast to the April 20 deadline to shut them down, an extension he granted last month.

Multiple published reports state that the U.S. DOT at least for the moment will not seek an injunction to stop the tolling of just about every vehicle that enters Manhattan at or below 60th Street.

“USDOT’s deadline for stopping toll collection has not changed. Make no mistake — the Trump Administration and USDOT will not hesitate to use every tool at our disposal in response to non-compliance later this month,” the post said.

Gov Hochul, as she has from the beginning, said the cameras will remain on. Q — Michael Gannon

company on parody cards and stickers called Wacky Packages and Garbage Pail Kids. He also wrote the acclaimed graphic novel “Maus,” about the Holocaust. Spiegelman married Francoise Mouly in 1977. Together they worked for The New Yorker. He created iconic magazine covers. Today he is a legend as his continues to draw, write, publish and tour. Q

B SPORTS EAT

The mighty Megill

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Starting pitching was a major concern for the Mets going into the 2025 season. Nominal ace Kodai Senga missed practically the entire 2024 season with an assortment of injuries.

Sean Manaea, who was the Mets’ best pitcher last year, is on the shelf with an oblique injury, and he may not see the Citi Field mound until June. David Peterson had a breakthrough year in 2024 and pitched quite well in his first outing of the year against the Miami Marlins.

You could not blame 6-foot, 7-inch righthander Tylor Megill if he has felt like the legendary comic and Kew Gardens native Rodney Dangerfield at times. When it came to the Mets’ starting staff, Megill has been an afterthought. Even converted reliever Clay Holmes generated more discussion. Talk about no respect.

Megill always has shown he can pitch. Unlike too many hurlers these days, he is not interested in getting high numbers on speed guns. He is more interested in deceiving hitters, throwing pitches at various speeds with plenty of movement. The problem for Megill in the past has been commanding that movement. His wildness last year earned him a demotion to the Syracuse Mets farm club.

That unplanned trip to central New York State may have been the best thing for him. As Mets broadcaster Gary Cohen pointed out fol-

lowing Megill’s brilliant outing in Friday’s home opener against the Toronto Blue Jays, the Mets have won every one of Megill’s last eight starts. What I have always admired about Megill is whenever he comes off the mound after an inning, he is always chewing gum without seeming to have a care in the world, no matter how he fared.

Last year the Mets played all Saturday home games in April at 4 p.m. That made sense given the expected weather. It was also a chance for families to enjoy a day at the ballpark an d return home at a reasonable time. I fondly remember going to Saturday matinees at Shea Stadium with my dad.

That is why it is a mystery as to why last Saturday’s game against Toronto started at 7 p.m. in very chilly weather. Cohen, to his credit, wondered aloud as to why the game was not scheduled for the afternoon.

Cohen’s colleague, the inimitable Keith Hernandez, was caught on a hot mic last week bemoaning the Mets’ “piss-poor hitting.” While that got media buzz, I was more impressed with his observation about the failure of hitters to move runners into scoring position with

ductive outs. He tore into the Marlins’ Jonah Bride for not trying to hit to the right side of the infield to get the lead run to third base.

See the extended version of Sports

Cartoonist Art Spiegelman lived at 63-12 Carlton St. in Rego Park, seen here as it looks today.

GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET PHOTO BY JEAN-FRÉDÉRIC VIA WIKIPEDIA

Black Spectrum is the place to be this spring

by Naeisha Rose editor

Spring is in the air at Black Spectrum Theatre and there is fun, laughter and music to be had.

On Monday, April 14, at 7:30 p.m., the work of Tony Award-winning actress Tonya Pinkins will be celebrated in the documentary “The Miracle of Tonya Pinkins” at the theater, located at 177-01 Baisley Blvd. in St. Albans. There will be a reception at 7 p.m. Attendees may RSVP at blackspectrum.com for the free screening. There will also be a cash bar and concessions with finger food. For more information, call (718) 723-1800.

On the Great White Way, Pinkins is known for her role on “Jelly’s Last Jam,” for which she won the Tony Award, and for “Play On!” and “Caroline, or Change,” both of which saw her nominated.

Pinkins also has 36 film credits, including “Above the Rim,” and nearly 40 TV credits for roles in Tyler Perry’s “Sistas” and “Scandal.” She is best known as Livia Frye on the soap opera “All My Children.”

“It’s an honor to present The Miracle of Tonya Pinkins documentary as she is one of the greatest living actresses of her time,” said Carl Clay, BST’s CEO, via email.

The documentary is directed by Juney Smith and executive-produced by Glynn

Turman.

Back by popular demand is “The Prize is Right.” The prize giveaway event is a senior spin on the longtime game show “The Price is Right,” and will be held on Thursday, April 17, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The host of the show is Chris Curry, the founder, president and CEO of So You Want to be a Star Inc., an artist development firm.

Curry got his start in the entertainment industry when he was in kindergarten for performing singer Patti Page’s “Doggie in the Window” on the “Ted Mack Original Amateur Hour,” variety show, according to an interview with WHCR 90.3 FM.

“The Prize is Right game show is where seniors have a fabulous time and leave with more than what they came with,” said

Curry via email.

The inaugural “The Prize is Right” included tech devices, subscriptions and free dinners, said Jewel Benton, Black Spectrum’s spokeswoman. “The prizes this year include a washing machine, dryer, concert tickets, theater tickets, tablets, televisions, air fryers, jewelry and dinner-for-two, to name a few,” she said. Admission is $10.

Celebrate the queen of your heart at A Mother’s Day Dinner & Concert on Sunday, May 4.

Guests can attend the noon brunch and 2 p.m. concert for $150 or just the musical portion of the event for $60. The menu includes chicken or fish with vegetables, said Benton.

There is also the option to attend a 5 p.m. concert with dessert and wine for $70. There will be musical tributes to the R&B group The Spinners and doo-wop group The Heartbeats. The latter group hails from Jamaica and the former group went on to recruit Queens native Jessie Robert Peck in 2009. A variety dance band, also called The Heartbeats, will pay tribute to the group for which it is named, alongside R&B crooner Petawane, who will also do a musical homage to the doo-wop group and sing other R&B hits, according to a second Black Spectrum spokeswoman. Q

Queens rock star’s new album is awesome

continued from page 17

unforgettable driving chords on the band’s iconic remake of “I Love Rock ’N Roll,” which spent seven weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and wound up as the chart’s No. 3 song for all of 1982.

(It also was, if memory serves, the first 45-rpm record bought by this writer, in early 1982, at age 11, a fact that amused Byrd.)

Byrd was with Jett and the Blackhearts until 1991 and was inducted into the Rock

Crossword Answers

and Roll Hall of Fame in 2015 as a member.

Like many, Byrd didn’t just rock hard, he lived hard. But in 1987 he decided to quit drugs and drinking, and he’s stayed clean one day at a time ever since. He is an alcohol and drug counselor and bills himself as The Recovery Troubadour, leading music groups at treatment facilities, among other efforts.

Byrd’s last two albums, 2015’s “Clean Getaway” and 2021’s “Sobering Times,” were specifically about addiction and recovery. “NYC Made” is about everything. But above all, it’s about rock ’n’ roll.

On a web page devoted to the album — which is on the Wicked Cool Records label and is available at rickybyrd.com and elsewhere — Byrd cites something he told Guitar Player: “I grew up on everything from The Raspberries to The Who to The Stones to The Yardbirds to Sam Cooke. If you just mix that all in a stew, I guess it comes out Ricky Byrd ... I just make music to make people happy ... and to make me happy.”

“NYC Made” does all that.

Helping Byrd achieve the mission are a few friends, among them Stevie Van Zandt of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band.

“Glamdemic Blues,” the second song, is,

as it sounds, a lamentation of Covid-19’s impact on society. He released it as a single in 2023. “One Saturday night,” Byrd pleads — he just wants one Saturday night, and some normalcy: “I’m hungry for some night life / and the good times that you took.”

That’s followed by “Rhapsody in Blues (One for Jeff),” a spectacular instrumental dedicated to Jeff Beck, “the guitarist’s guitarist,” and a major influence on Byrd.

Then comes the nostalgic “Sweet Byrd of Youte,” which recalls the rocker’s early club days when “we had our share of toil and trouble / Ohhhh ... what a time we had.”

There’s the requisite song about the one who got away, “Anna Lee.” But it’s followed by “Then Along Comes You,” when romantic fortunes seem to turn for the better. After that is “Transistor Radio Childhood,” with its nods to everyone from Otis Redding to The Beach Boys to the New York Yankees and legendary DJ Bruce Morrow. Among the other tracks are “Alien,” Byrd’s plea for someone to help humanity with all its foibles, a piece of anthem rock.

Singer, songwriter and guitarist Ricky Byrd is “NYC Made,” just like the album says. On the cover: Byrd performs at a 2017 show. PHOTO, ABOVE, BY CRISTINA ARRIGONI; ALBUM ART BY RICH JONES AT TURNING REBELLION; COVER PHOTO BY GUY ACETO VIA WIKIPEDIA

The final song is “Best of Times,” whose melody would be perfectly at home on The Beatles’ 1965 album “Rubber Soul,” until that heavy guitar of a later era kicks in. It ends, “When my time comes around / I’ll give thanks for the love that I’ve found / and the best of times were spent with you.” It all goes together beautifully. And so it is with “NYC Made.” Q

A documentary celebrating the work of actress Tonya Pinkins, left, will be screened at Black Spectrum Theatre on April 14. The second “The Prize is Right” senior event will be held on April 17. There will also be a Mother’s Day event on May 4.

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AT&T proposes to modify their existing facility (new tip heights 64.5’, 72.5; & 76.5’) on the building at 124-06 Ave, College Point, NY (20250209). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

PUBLIC NOTICE

AT&T proposes to modify their existing facility (new tip heights 110.6’) on the building at,179th St & Linden Blvd, Jamaica, Queens Boro, NY (20250254). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

PUBLIC NOTICE

PLEASE CALL LORI, 1-929-361-0643 (Cell Phone). I PAY THE BEST, MOST HONEST PRICES FOR ESTATES, FURNITURE, CHANDELIERS, LAMPS, COSTUME JEWELRY, WATCHES (WORKING OR NOT WORKING), FURS, COINS, POCKETBOOKS, CHINA, VASES, GLASSWARE, STERLING SILVERWARE, FIGURINES, CANDLESTICKS, PAINTINGS, PRINTS, RUGS, PIANOS, GUITARS, VIOLINS, FLUTES, TAG SALES, CLEANOUTS, CARS

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AT&T proposes to modify their existing facility (new tip heights 77.1’) on the building at 82-40 Austin St., Kew Gardens, NY (20250176). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

PUBLIC NOTICE

AT&T proposes to modify their existing facility (new tip heights 51.9’ & 52’) on the building at 59-06 Linden St, Ridgewood, NY (20250218). Interested parties may contact Scott Horn (856-809-1202) (1012 Industrial Dr., West Berlin, NJ 08091) with comments regarding potential effects on historic properties.

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premises Restaurant-Liquor License, NYS Application ID NA-0340-25-107832 has been applied for by SSP America JFK T5, LLC to sell liquor, beer, wine and cider at retail in an on-premises Restaurant-Liquor establishment. For on premise consumption under the ABC law at JFK International Airport, Terminal 5 Space 27CC & 28CC Jamaica New York 11430.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, ATLANTICA, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. MINCIA AGARD, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure & Sale duly entered on October 10, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on May 9, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 149-63 Weller Lane, Rosedale, NY 11422. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements the reon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 13676 and Lot 24. Approximate amount of judgment is $722,827.98 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #726578/2022. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee Vallely Mitola Ryan PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Notice of Formation of ANATOLIKO LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/19/2025. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ENTITY PROTECT REGISTERED AGENT SERVICES LLC, 447 BROADWAY 2ND FL. - #3000, NEW YORK, NY 10013. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

ATM MASPETH LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 3/11/25. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 44-17 54th Dr., Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS SUMMONS Index No.: 712497/2022 Plaintiffs designate Queens County as the Place of Trial The basis of venue is the county in which the Property is situated: 173-28 47th Avenue, Flushing, New York 11358 SANTHA KRISHNA, Plaintiff, - againstAMANDEEP KAUR TIWANA, BALJIT KAUR AND PAWANDEEP TIWANA, Defendants. ACTION TO RECOVER REAL PROPERTY To the above named Defendants: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance, on Plaintiffs’ attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default of the relief demanded in the Complaint. Dated: June 1, 2022 Long Island City, New York LAW OFFICES OF JOHN F. LAGAN Attorneys for Plaintiff John F. Lagan, Esq. 44-02 23rd Street, Suite 107, Long Island City, New York 11101 (718) 932-2550 jack@laganpc.com

NOTICE

This action is to recover possession of real property, to wit, 17328 47th Avenue, Flushing, County of Queens, New York 11358, in the County of Queens (BBL: Q/5585/19), eject defendants therefrom, declare that Plaintiff is entitled to immediate possession of the Property, and for money damages. The nature of the relief sought is: Ejectment of defendants from the property; judgment granting Plaintiff immediate possession of the property; and money judgment for unpaid rent and use & occupancy, and electric charges through the date of judgment in an amount not less than $68,464.00, plus interest; for damage to the Premises caused by defendants in an amount not less than $1,000.00; for the costs of this action, including reasonable attorney’s fees; and such other and further relief as may be within the power and jurisdiction of this Court, and which to this Court seems just, equitable and proper.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, CMG MORTGAGE INC, Plaintiff, vs. JON PHILLIPS, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 10, 2024 and Order Appointing Subsitiute Referee entered on February 3, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the second floor in Courtroom 25 Queens County Supreme Courthouse located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435, on April 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM, premises known as 119-35 219TH ST, CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, NEW YORK 114112004. 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: 12779, Lot: 8. Approximate amount of judgment is $625,961.89 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 705439/2018. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee. All parties 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 Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term Website (https://www.nycourts. gov/LegacyPDFS/COURTS/11jd/ supreme/civilterm/partrules/ Foreclosure_Auction_Rules.pdf For Sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832. MICHAEL CERVINI, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT: QUEENS COUNTY FRANK BIANCANIELLO and JOSEPH GULOTTA v. ZDE ENTERTAINMENT GROUP LLC, et al. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated September 17, 2024 and filed with the Clerk of the Supreme Court, Queens County on October 9, 2024, bearing Index no. 715701/2022, I will sell at public auction on April 25, 2025 at 10:00 am in the second floor, Courtroom 25 of the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11435, the premises known as 25-54 12th Street, Unit 5A, Astoria, NY 11102 (Block: 904, Lot: 1013) and 25-54 12th Street, Unit 5C, Astoria, NY 11102 (Block 904, Lot: 1015). Premises sold subject to filed Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale and Terms of Sale. Judgment amount $1,031,821.72 plus interest and costs. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with the Unified Court System Safety and Operational Protocols in effect at this time. Auction location and time are subject to revision based on Court policy, current protocols and health conditions. Arthur Nicholas Terranova, Referee. Harry Zubli, Esq., attorney for plaintiff (516) 487-5777.

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premise Restaurant Liquor License, NYS Application ID: NA 0340-25-108038 has been applied for by Partake LLC serving beer, wine, cider and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a restaurant with one additional bar, for the premises located at 10-29 44th Rd Ground Floor and Cellar Long Island City NY 11101.

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premises Restaurant-Liquor License, NYS Application ID NA-0340-25-107004 has been applied for by Pointcorp LLC d/b/a The Blarney to sell liquor, beer, wine and cider at retail in an on-premises Restaurant-Liquor establishment. For on premise consumption under the ABC law at 202-24 Rockaway Point Blvd., Rockaway Point, NY 11697.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiff AGAINST SIMONE K. ISAACS, ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered February 11, 2025, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on April 25, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 220-32 137th Avenue, Springfield Gardens, NY 11413. 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 13125 and Lot 28. Approximate amount of judgment $861,881.63 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #717460/2022. Michael A. Cervini, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 22-002535 84834

Notice of Formation of BOOKS TO TAX SOLUTIONS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/01/2024 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: NICK TYLIPAKIS, 244-27 61ST AVENUE, DOUGLASTON, NY 11362. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of DEEDESIGNS4U LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/11/2024. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 6641 69TH ST APT 2C, MIDDLE VILLAGE, NY 11379. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, -againstCHITROWTIE GHANESS, ET AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on August 6, 2024, wherein NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC is the Plaintiff and CHITROWTIE GHANESS, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at THE QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on April 25, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 90-23 184TH STREET, HOLLIS, NY 11423; and the following tax map identification: 9905-58.

ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 700221/2021. Lamont Ramsey Bailey, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES

Notice of Formation of DOGRU CONSULTANTS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/17/2024

Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 6466 ELLWELL CRES APT 2, REGO PARK, NY 11374. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Real Estate

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

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Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Center Hall Colonial. 50x100 lot. Generous yard, 3/4 BRs, 3 full baths, walk-in closets in 3 BRs. Lg kitchen w/sliding doors to yard. Fin bsmnt w/high ceilings. Det gar in yard. Asking $1,375,000. Connexion Real Estate 718-845-1136

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We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No Fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-888-704-5670 Having a garage sale? Let everyone know about it by advertising in the Queens Classifieds Call 718-205-8000 and place the ad!

HOSPITALITY SERVICES LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 02/27/2025. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:

NOTICE

OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY QUEST TRUST COMPANY

FBO ELIZABETH HAUG IRA #3101621, Plaintiff against CLARA YRVANIA DIAZ, et al

Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Margolin, Weinreb & Nierer, LLP, 575 Underhill Boulevard, Suite 224, Syosset, NY 11791. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered February 19, 2025, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on April 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 91-52 112th Street, Richmond Hill, NY 11418. Block 9318 Lot 14. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $238,421.55 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 714155/2021. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Lamont R. Bailey, Esq., Referee File # 20-0966

Notice of Formation of DOMX LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/25/2025 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LLC, 8824 242ND ST, BELLEROSE, NY 11426. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of EdgeSide LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/20/2024. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 3705 88th Street, Apt C6, Jackson Heights, NY 11372. Purpose: any lawful activities.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 20182, Plaintiff against BRENDA LANCLOS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 18, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on May 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Premises known as 117-26 204th Street, St. Albans, NY 11412. Block 12633 Lot 18. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $502,457.75 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 715570/2020. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Kristen Jean Dubowski, Esq., Referee File # 21-001540-01

Notice of formation of EXPERT SPEAKERS LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 2/23/2025. Office located in Queens County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 108-11 95th Avenue, South Richmond Hill, NY 11419. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of NYC Data Solutions LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/05/2024. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: NYC Data Solutions LLC, 8319 95th AVE, OZONE PARK, NY 11416. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Queens County US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, -against- RAMSINGH SINGH AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF RAGHUNANDAN SINGH; SURUJDAI JOREE AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF RAGHUNANDAN SINGH; DAYAWANTI SINGH A/K/A DAYAWANTIE SINGH A/K/A KALPANA SINGH AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF RAGHUNANDAN SINGH; DINDYAL SINGH AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF RAGHUNANDAN SINGH; GANGADAI SINGH AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF RAGHUNANDAN SINGH, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED, UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF GANGADAI SINGH; UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF RAGHUNANDAN SINGH; DEOMATTIE SINGH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF RAGHUNANDAN SINGH, IF LIVING, AND IF DECEASED, UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF DEOMATTIE SINGH; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; CAPITAL ONE BANK; THE BROOKLYN UNION GAS COMPANY; WORKERS’ COMPENSATION BOARD OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; SABITA RAMNARINE; “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants Index No. 724099/2023. Mortgaged Premises: 109-19 111th Street South Ozone Park, NY 11420 Block: 11592 Lot: 58 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on Mortgage to secure $333,750.00 and interest, recorded in the Office of the City Register of the City of New York on June 9, 2014 in CRFN 2014000196647, covering the premises known as 109-19 111th Street, South Ozone Park, NY 11420. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS–SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF QUEENS – MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC, Plaintiff, -against- LINDA NATALUK KLOOCK, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF THE MARYANNE NATALUK; ANY AND ALL KNOWN OR UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY, THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF MARYANNE NATALUK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; CITIMORTGAGE, INC.; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ACTING ON BEHALF OF DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; DENNIS NATALUK, Defendants - Index No. 706419/2018 Plaintiff Designates Queens County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Queens County. To the above named Defendants–YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Second Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated February 3, 2025. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME – If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT, LLC) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an or der of the Honorable Claudia Lanzetta, J.S.C. Dated: February 3, 2025 Filed: February 7, 2025. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 5818 190th Street, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365. Dated: October 10, 2024 Greenspoon Marder LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Angelo Regina, Esq., 1345 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 2200, New York, NY 10105 P: (212) 5245000 F: (212) 524-5050 No Service by fax) Service purposes only: Trade Centre South 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954) 343-6982

Notice of Formation of OLD HAND BARBERS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/09/2023 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 115-06 ROCKAWAY BEACH BLVD, ROCKAWAY PARK, NY 11694. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of SAS PROPERTY GROUP LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/15/2025 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: SAS PROPERTY GROUP LLC, 3731 73RD ST, APARTMENT 2E, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS

INDEX # 708929/2024 Property: 255-39 149th Road, Rosedale, New York 11422 Supplemental Summons with Notice of Action to Foreclose a Mortgage Towd Point Mortgage Trust 2017-FRE2, U.S. Bank National Association, as Indenture Trustee, Plaintiff(s), -against- Defendant Mark Gray if living, and if he/she any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors; administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; New York City Environmental Control Board, New York City Parking Violations Bureau, Barclay Brown Stone Development LLC, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, AKF Inc., Fundkite and “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest, in or lien upon the premises being foreclosed herein , Defendant(s). WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s attorneys within 20 days after the service of this summons exclusive of the day of service or within 30 days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Sheldon May & Associates, P.C. by Ted Eric May, Esq., Attorneys for Plaintiff. 255 Merrick Road, Rockville Centre, New York 11570. Phone: 516-763-3200. File # 39791

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY

ASPEN PROPERTIES GROUP, LLC AS TRUSTEE OF AG3 REVOCABLE TRUST, Plaintiff against ELAINE HUITT, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 10, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on April 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 18918 Keeseville Avenue, Saint Albans, NY 11412. Block 10440 Lot 9. 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. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $116,642.80 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 712333/2020. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Michael Cervini, Esq., Referee File # 6918741

Notice of Formation of SETSBYLANAH, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/11/2025 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to:

ALANAH KLEIN, 64-46 AUSTIN ST, REGO PARK, NY 11374. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX NO. 716292/2022

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property Mortgaged Premises: 2721 MCINTOSH STREET, EAST ELMHURST, NY 11369 Block: 1660, Lot: 68 WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR SOUNDVIEW HOME LOAN TRUST 2007-OPT3, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-OPT3, Plaintiff, vs. JOSEPH J. JADOOBIR; CLARENCE JONES, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; “JANE DOE” AS “JOHN DOE #1”; “JOHN DOE” AS “JOHN DOE #2”, “JOHN DOE #3” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last ten names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $540,000.00 and interest, recorded on May 11, 2007, in CRFN 2007000247359, of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 2721 MCINTOSH STREET, EAST ELMHURST, NY 11369. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: March 7th, 2025 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

50-94 194 STREET LLC.

Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 3/17/25. Office: Queens County. SSNY desig. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to Danielle Winfield, 23 W. 69 St., Apt. A., NY, NY 10023. Purpose: any legal purpose.

590 Quincy Street LLC filed Arts. of Org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/28/2025. Office: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 21-14 Elk Dr, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. Purpose: any lawful act.

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 704581/2020 U.S. BANK TRUST, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR LSF9 MASTER PARTICIPATION TRUST Plaintiff, vs KIMBERLY D SIEWHARACK AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DHANRAJ SIEWHARACK, KYLE D. SIEWHARACK AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DHANRAJ SIEWHARACK, GEETA SIEWHARACK AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DHANRAJ SIEWHARACK, KEVIN SIEWHARACK AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF DHANRAJ SIEWHARACK, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DHANRAJ SIEWHARACK IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD, NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU, NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, LERNAM SIEWHARACK Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 144-11 Shore Avenue Jamaica, NY 11435 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Queens. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Heirs of Dhanraj Siewharack Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Denise Johnson of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twenty-First day of March, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Jamaica. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Dhanraj Siewharack (who died on July 12, 2020, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) dated the January 29, 2007, to secure the sum of $398,990.51 and recorded at CRFN 2007000264277 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on May 21, 2007. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 13, 2015 and recorded on February 4, 2014, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2015000038966. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Dhanraj Siewharack on May 23, 2019 and recorded October 23, 2019 in CRFN 2019000344904 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 8, 2021 and recorded on January 29, 2021, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2021000035779. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed October 21, 2022 and recorded on January 5, 2023, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2023000004388. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 22, 2022 and recorded on January 5, 2023, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2023000004389. The property in question is described as follows: 144-11 Shore Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11435 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: March 28, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 85189

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS ACTION TO FORECLOSE A MORTGAGE INDEX #: 703182/2024 NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE, LLC Plaintiff, vs UNKNOWN SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE(S) OF THE RICHARD C. HERMANN TRUST, UNKNOWN HEIRS OF CHARLES J. HERMANN IF LIVING, AND IF HE/SHE BE DEAD, ANY AND ALL PERSONS UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, CLAIMING, OR WHO MAY CLAIM TO HAVE AN INTEREST IN, OR GENERAL OR SPECIFIC LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS ACTION; SUCH UNKNOWN PERSONS BEING HEREIN GENERALLY DESCRIBED AND INTENDED TO BE INCLUDED IN WIFE, WIDOW, HUSBAND, WIDOWER, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF SUCH DECEASED, ANY AND ALL PERSONS DERIVING INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON, OR TITLE TO SAID REAL PROPERTY BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THEM, OR EITHER OF THEM, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE WIVES, WIDOWS, HUSBANDS, WIDOWERS, HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DESCENDANTS, EXECUTORS, ADMINISTRATORS, DEVISEES, LEGATEES, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES, COMMITTEES, LIENORS, AND ASSIGNS, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES, EXCEPT AS STATED, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the Subject Property described in the Complaint, Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 73-23 187th Street Fresh Meadows, NY 11366 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Queens. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown Successor Trustee(s) of the Richard C. Hermann Trust of Richard C. Hermann, Unknown Heirs of Charles J. Hermann Defendants In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Denise Johnson of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twenty-First day of March, 2025 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Jamaica. The object of this action is to foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by Richard C. Hermann (who died on December 17, 2019, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) dated the April 24, 2012, to secure the sum of $938,250.00 and recorded at CRFN 2012000193468 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on May 16, 2012. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed October 25, 2018 and recorded on October 26, 2018, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2018000357268. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 19, 2023 and recorded on January 27, 2023, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2023000025652. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed February 21, 2023 and recorded on February 27, 2023, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2023000051775 The property in question is described as follows: 73-23 187th Street, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366 NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this Foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. DATED: March 28, 2025 Gross Polowy LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 85190

Meng urges DHS to restore emergency allocations; says boro, NYC lose millions Food pantries feel federal fund delays

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

An ongoing review of federal disbursements to nongovernment agencies has resulted in millions of dollars being withheld from food pantries in Queens and throughout New York City.

The program in question, according to U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) is the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Emergency Food and Shelter Program, run out of the Department of Homeland Security.

Meng, in a statement from her office last week, said many pantries may no longer be able to provide full services, forced to either cut their hours or reduce the amount of food they give out to the needy.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem had announced that the agency is reviewing all grants to nongovernmental organizations. Meng last month penned a letter to Noem urging her to restore the money.

“Nobody in Queens or anywhere throughout our country deserves to go hungry and that is why Secretary Noem must immediately release these payments,” said Meng. “Taking food out of the mouths of those who rely on local pantries is unconscionable and unacceptable. It is also cruel and reckless.”

In her letter, dated March 21, Meng said the need for the food assistance they provide is

She added that the pause comes on top of recent cuts to programs of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which she said also could hit farmers.

“I think it will take some time for this to take effect,” she said. “The Department of Agriculture buys produce from farmers and the produce is distributed to food banks. Now the farmers don’t get that.”

The Rev. Benjamin Ytac Jr., executive director of Yeshua Worldwide Ministries New York in Middle Village, said in Meng’s press release that they are already facing difficulties.

“We serve thousands of people every month and without us there is no place else for them to turn,” Ytac said.

Grace Bonilla, president and CEO of United Way of New York City, also asked the feds to heed Meng’s call.

U.S. HOUSE

Rep. Grace Meng, left, visits with Sudha Acharya, executive director of the South Asian Council for Social Services pantry in Flushing. The agency and others throughout the city and elsewhere have had emergency funding suspended by the federal government.

urgent and ongoing.

“It is simply unacceptable for Americans to go hungry while waiting for your department to conduct these so-called reviews,” she wrote.

The DHS did not respond to a request for comment for this story.

Sudha Acharya, executive director of the South Asian Council for Social Services food

pantry in Flushing, told the Chronicle on Tuesday that her group’s funds are being held up, and that it is bracing for the impact.

“That’s stopped and we don’t know when it’s gong to start again,” Acharya said in a phone interview. “That’s the hard part. ... We help 2,080 families a week with groceries, vegetables and fruit, so we hope that comes.”

“The consequences of federal funding cuts to the Emergency Food and Shelter Program during this review period are dire, as food pantries and eviction prevention providers that many New Yorkers rely on run dangerously low on resources,” Bonilla said. “This is not just a bureaucratic delay — it is a direct threat to both the lives of those in need and the organizations that support them. It is critical that funding, which in many cases is for services already provided, be restored as soon as possible.” Q

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