Challenges birthright citizenship, declares border state of emergency Immigration action on day one: Trump
by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor
Hours after his inauguration on Monday, President Trump showed a commitment to many of his campaign promises by signing dozens of executive orders.
Before taking office, Trump had said he intended to declare a national emergency at the border and use the military to carry out mass deportations. He made that declaration shortly after his second term began.
Invoking the National Emergencies Act, he signed an order authorizing the U.S. Armed Forces to help the Department of Homeland Security curb illegal entry at the southern border.
Trump’s administration also acted swiftly to shut down CBP One, an app with which migrants could submit advance information and make appointments to appear at eight southwestern ports of entry. The BBC reported that it was the only legal pathway to declare asylum at the U.S.-Mexico border.
Congress may limit the president’s emergency powers through a joint resolution if both chambers believe he is acting irresponsibly or the threat has subsided, The New York Times reported, but that is unlikely since both are controlled by Republicans. Trump also would have the power to veto that resolution.
It remains to be seen how and when Trump’s intended mass repatriations will occur. Even more uncertain is the outcome of his efforts in places such as Queens, where more than half of adults were born outside the United States, both those with and without legal status.
Of the 23,000 street vendors in the city, including the many who operate in Corona Plaza and on Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights, the majority are immigrants, people of color, veterans and women.
Anticipating Trump’s mass repatriation efforts, some street vendors and immigrant rights advocates on Monday urged local leaders to expand protections for vulnerable migrant business owners.
“Vendors who are immigrants make our city’s vibrant food culture and embody NYC’s entrepreneurial spirit,” Carina Kaufman-Gutierrez, the Street Vendor Project’s deputy director, said in a press release.
Mayor Adams met with President Trump last Friday in Palm Beach, Fla., ahead of the inauguration. While Adams said in a statement that the two discussed various issues affecting the city, he did not describe the specifics of their conversation regarding migrants and asylum seekers.
Asked at a Tuesday press conference whether he will cooperate with Immigration and
Many of the city’s street vendors, such as the ones seen above in Southeast Queens, are immigrants. It is yet unknown how President Trump’s newest executive orders will affect them.
Customs Enforcement agents if they come to the city, he said he is “not going to keep having the same conversation over and over again.”
“We want to bring down the anxiety. We want our immigrants to know this is a city of immigrants, this is a country of immigrants,” he said.
Adams has repeatedly deferred to the City Council when asked whether sanctuary poli-
cies, which limit local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal officials on immigration laws, would remain.
The Council leadership favors sanctuary policies, but not all members do.
“Aiding and abetting migrant criminals by prohibiting local law enforcement from cooperating with ICE violates federal law,” Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) said in an emailed statement. “The New York City Council is too radical to change course and clearly doesn’t care about their constituents. Mayor Eric Adams must stop hiding behind them and work with ICE to remove criminals who shouldn’t be here. We need to repeal sanctuary city and state laws.”
Following his meeting with border czar Tom Homan last month, Adams said the two had the same goal of targeting violent offenders and he would look into his own powers of executive orders to target “dangerous people.”
Citing ICE data, several published news reports said at the end of last year that about 60,000 criminal noncitizens live in the city.
“If you are here legally, there should be no problem,” Holden said when asked how the new developments will affect Queens’ large immigrant population. “If you are here illegally and commit crimes in NYC, you should be deported. Period.”
continued on page 14
Our Lady of Grace RC Church Howard Beach
Our Lady of Grace RC Church 100-05 159th Ave., Howard Beach, NY 11414 718-843-6218
email: ParishOfficeolg@gmail.com
Calling All Young Adults Ages 21 - 40 Join us on Saturday, February 8th, 2025 For a special gathering
When: Attend the 4:00PM Mass followed by a Wine & Cheese Social from 5:00 - 6:30PM in Our Lady of Grace’s community room.
Come along, meet friends and enjoy a warm and welcoming environment! This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow Catholics, network and build new friendships. Great conversation, refreshments and community. We look forward to seeing you there!
PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON / FILE
Addabbo, DSNY continue efforts to combat unlicensed sales in SD 15 Fight against illicit vendors carries on
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
In an effort to tackle unlicensed fruit vending in his district, state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) last November penned a letter sent to the city departments of Sanitation, Transportation, Health and Consumer and Worker Protection, along with the NYPD.
“I am writing on behalf of my constituents, who are increasingly concerned about the negative impact of illegal vending has on our local economy and neighborhood safety,” Addabbo wrote in the letter, dated Nov. 14. “It is crucial that we take decisive action on following the current laws of our city and support our legitimate business owners. I urge the city agencies to collaborate on a series of targeted enforcement sweeps to address this issue head-on.”
Now, just over two months later, the senator gave kudos to the DSNY for its efforts.
In a press release, Addabbo’s office said the agency has “worked expeditiously to issue violations and confiscate the unlawful produce.”
The target locations thus far, according to Addabbo’s office, are Liberty Avenue from Lefferts Bou-
levard to 112th Street; Jamaica Avenue at Forest Parkway; and Jamaica Avenue at Lefferts Boulevard.
The DSNY conducted several vending inspections along the Jamaica Avenue corridor, totaling 45 visits. Summonses were issued and thousands of pounds of illegal pro-
duce were seized and later donated or composted, whichever deemed appropriate.
Though conditions have improved over the past few weeks, Addabbo said the effort must be persistent and continuous.
“I applaud the DSNY for their
speedy action in beginning to eradicate the illegal vending operations that have been creating dangerous situations in the community like blocking sidewalks, crosswalks and bus stops, selling illegal goods, among other offenses,” Addabbo said, adding that he and his team
will remain vigilant in monitoring until all illegal vending has ceased.
“I want to take a moment to also thank the NYPD for dealing with open flame issues along Jamaica Avenue — combating the scourge of illegal vending operations requires a multi-agency effort to make it happen,” Addabbo said.
One licensed fruit store owner with a shop on Jamaica Avenue in Woodhaven, who previously told the Chronicle of his discomfort with the illegal vendors as competition, confirmed that the unlicensed stands are appearing less often.
“I think maybe the weather has something to do with it, too,” he said. “But they are outside less.”
One customer, Grace Martinez, told the Chronicle she “feels better” buying her produce from a licensed vendor instead of a streetside, illicit stand.
“I’ve seen them setting up across from Chase bank [on Forest Parkway and Jamaica Avenue], but I don’t buy from there,” Martinez said. “I want to support real small business owners who follow the laws and regulations that come with it. It’s just safer — at least I know they’re getting the produce safely, you know?” Q
QueensLink gets $400K from USDOT
Award will be used to perform study of proposed rail project’s
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
QueensLink, a project that would use the abandoned Rockaway Beach Branch rail line to create the borough’s first north-south subway route, recently received a $400,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The award comes as part of the agency’s Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Biden. It will be used to perform a study to measure the social, environmental, economic and equitable impacts of the proposed “rails and trails” project.
An opposing plan, QueensWay, the city-supported proposal to convert 3.5 miles of abandoned Long Island Rail Road tracks into a linear park, received $117 million in federal funding in March of last year. The QueensLink plan includes both parkland and a railway.
The project would extend the M train from Queens Boulevard to the Rockaways via a transit corridor parallel to Woodhaven Boulevard and then the A train line, offering residents a
more direct route from Southern Queens into Manhattan. It also would create 33 acres of new parks and protected bike paths along the old LIRR right-of-way, according to its website, as well as a new subway tunnel from Queens Boulevard to Fleet Street in Forest Hills.
Four Southeast Queens elected officials, state Sens. James Sanders Jr. (D-South Ozone Park) and Leroy Comrie (D-St.Albans), Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson (D-South Ozone Park) and Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton) wrote a letter to Mayor Adams, dated Jan. 9, urging him to “not initiate any construction that would impede the reactivation” of the Rockaway Beach Branch line and future investment in QueensLink.
“Southeast Queens residents have long been excluded from the City’s core transit network and deprived of their fair share of transportation infrastructure investment,” the letter read.
The Mayor’s Office has in the past said QueensWay does not preclude an MTA project if the agency determines one is feasible.
impacts
QueensLink,
An unlicensed fruit vendor was recently penalized for setting up shop at Liberty Avenue and Lefferts Boulevard in Richmond Hill, part of the city Department of Sanitation’s effort to tackle illicit vending issues.
PHOTO COURTESY NYS SENATE
Hochul seeks $252B state spending plan
Governor says proposal increases affordability; critics call it unafforable
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
Gov. Hochul on Tuesday proposed a steep hike in state spending while leaving a lot of the details on funding to be worked out in negotiations with the state Legislature.
Hochul’s executive budget plan calls for $252 billion in spending for fiscal year 2026, which begins April 1.
Last year’s budget deal was approved at $237 billion, though the administration’s numbers predict it will come in balanced at $240 billion in spending when the books are closed out at the end of March. The $252 billion marks a 5 percent increase over that.
Hochul’s plan forecasts deficits of $6.4 billion, $9.7 billion and $11 billion for fiscal years 2027 through 2029.
Hochul says she is not proposing income tax increases, and that the budget will be funded by revenue that is up nearly 8 percent.
“A budget is more than just figures on a page,” she said in a transcript on her official website. “It tells the story of who we are, what we value and who we’re fighting for. New York is a complex state. We have great wealth and great need. Our challenge is to foster an environment where success thrives while making sure those who feel left behind can still see a path forward.”
She also wants $110 million for childcare facilities and $100 million for starter homes and downpayment help for first-time home buyers.
But many of Hochul’s initiatives will require close cooperation from Democrats in Albany or Republicans in Washington, DC.
Discussing New York City’s subways during the public safety section of her talk, Hochul said she is committed to improving lighting, adding platform barriers and modernizing turnstiles.
“We’ll also strengthen our laws surrounding involuntary commitment,” she said, “Our subways cannot be rolling homeless shelters. We must have the ability to help those who aren’t able to seek help themselves, who are refusing help with the basics, like clothing, food, and shelter. This is about showing humanity for fellow human beings, who are suffering from mental illness that is literally putting their lives and the lives of others in danger.”
“A budget is more than just figures on a page ... ”
— Gov. Kathy Hochul
Democratic leaders in the state Senate and Assembly, however, traditionally have been unwilling to toughen involuntary commitment laws.
“Let me be clear: Changes at the federal level will create new challenges for the state and for programs New Yorkers care about,” Hochul said. “It’s already started. And if the Republicans in power cut critical federal funding streams for Medicaid, education, child care, utility assistance — the list goes on. Those who are hurt need to raise their voices, direct their anger at Washington and push their Members of Congress to fight for them. Because New York and other States simply will not be able to shoulder these costs on our own.”
She said members of the state’s congressional delegation, particularly Republicans, need to be held accountable to prevent cuts.
Hochul also appears to be going all in on calls to eliminate the cap on state and local tax — or SALT — deductions on federal income tax returns. The present $10,000 deduction cap was passed during Trump’s first administration with his support. Many Republicans right now are talking about raising the cap, but not eliminating it.
Writing on X, state Sen. Minority Leader Robert Ortt (R-Lockport) was unimpressed with Hochul’s proposal.
afford them in the long run unless it restrains spending elsewhere.
Hochul acknowledged the need to reform the school aid funding formula, saying the process already has begun.
Hochul is proposing increasing the child tax credits from $330 to $1,000 for children under age 4, and $500 for school-age children. She wants a one-time payment of $500 to families and $300 for individuals in lowand middle-income brackets, costing $3 billion.
Hochul has yielded to pressure to allow full or “hold harmless” funding for all school districts, even those that have fewer students or are well-to-do; universal free school lunch and breakfast at $120 million. The governor also wants children banned from using their phones during school hours [see separate story in some editions or at qchron.com].
Donate
Hochul also has pledged $154 million to fund six months of overtime to allow the NYPD to put two police officers on all overnight trains on most subway routes. The first $77 million is coming from the present budget. The last three months would require funding in a new budget.
Hochul said she wants to close loopholes in the discovery process of criminal court cases that have led to many cases being thrown out on technicalities — loopholes created by the Legislature in 2019.
There also right now is a gap of about $33 billion in the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s request for a five-year, $68 billion capital plan.
The governor acknowledged that President Trump and new congressional leadership can greatly help or greatly hinder Albany’s efforts.
blood and save lives
“Donate Today, Save Lives Tomorrow” is the motto of the New York Blood Center, which is seeking donors as the state continues to face a blood shortage.
To help via a blood donation or a financial gift to the nonprofit, visit nybc.org. All blood types are wanted.
There are four places in and around Eastern and Southeast Queens listed now to donate:
• St. John’s University, Taffner Field House room 202; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 30, at 8000 Utopia Pkwy. in Jamaica Estates; blood drive coordinator Safiyah Seelochan;
• American Airlines, First Floor Arrivals; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Feb. 7, at JFK Airport Terminal 8; blood drive coordinator Alex Perez;
• Gurdwara Sikh Cultural Society, basement; 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 16, at 95-30 118 St. in Richmond Hill; blood drive coordinator Inderjeet Singh; and
• Central Library, busmobile; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24, at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. in Jamaica; blood drive coordinator Nina Luca Bolowsky. Q — Naeisha Rose
“The only thing bold about the Governor’s budget plan is the amount of new spending,” Ortt posted. “Once again, we are on track to spend more and pass those costs on to hardworking New Yorkers. There is nothing in the budget to address affordability in the long term.”
Andrew Rein, president of the Citizens Budget Commission, was direct in his concerns.
“Despite strong revenues and continued economic growth, Governor Kathy Hochul’s Executive Budget weakens the State’s fiscal foundation and competitiveness,” Rein wrote. “It balloons spending, fails to restrain unaffordable Medicaid and education spending growth, spreads many ‘affordability’ programs too thin to provide meaningful relief, and extends the ‘temporary’ income tax surcharge.”
Rein added that while the budget includes proposals such as an expanded child tax credit and middle-class tax cuts that could improve New Yorkers’ lives, the state cannot
“We’re replacing 20-year-old poverty metrics with current census data to more accurately determine student need,” she said. “This will ensure State dollars reach the children who need them most. And let me be clear: I know that any change is hard ... That’s why it’s important to know that the vast majority of schools will receive more money than they would have without these slight adjustments to the formula.”
Of the state’s $35 billion Medicare expenditure, Hochul said it will require federal assistance.
“We’ll take smart steps to control costs while protecting services,” she said. “We’ve secured federal approval for a new managed care assessment that will generate $1.6 billion annually. We’re investing nearly $1 billion in our safety net hospitals and continuing to fund our innovative social care networks. We’ll continue working to ensure every New Yorker has access to quality healthcare, regardless of their zip code or their circumstances.” Q
Cops searching for phone thief
Police are seeking help in identifying a suspect wanted for a grand larceny in Richmond Hill.
On Jan. 5, within the confines of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct and Transit District 20, cops received a report that at about 3:30 p.m., a 24-year-old female was sitting on a northbound E train at the Jamaica-Van Wyck subway station when an unidentified male took her cellphone, an iPhone 14 valued at approximately $1,200, from her left hand. He fled on foot to parts
This man is wanted for a grand larceny. PHOTO COURTESY NYPD
unknown and there were no injuries reported.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit tips by logging onto nypdcrimestoppers.com, or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577, or by going to @nypdtips on X. All tips are strictly confidential. Q — Kristen Guglielmo
Gov. Hochul delivers her executive budget.
PHOTO BY MIKE GROLL / NYS GOVERNOR’S OFFICE
At budget announcement, Hochul outlines planned policy on devices Phone use could be banned in schools
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Gov. Hochul on Tuesday during her budget announcement outlined her plan for a longanticipated cell phone ban for all New York public school students. The restrictions would start at the beginning of the next school year.
“A recent Pew research poll revealed that 72 percent of high school teachers across the nation report that cell phones in classrooms are a major distraction for their students,” Hochul said. “That same study found that 95 percent of high schoolers have access to smartphones and receive an alarming 250 notifications per day.”
She said that as a mother, she understands how difficult it can be for children to pay attention when “there’s a screen flashing in front of their face.” Because of that, she last year convened roundtables across the state to discuss the impact of smartphones in the classroom and on kids’ mental health in general.
“As a result of these conversations, I’m announcing today a proposal that will transform our classrooms: A new statewide policy to make classrooms distraction-free so our children can focus on the things that matter,” Hochul said.
At the start of the 2025-26 school year, all students would be required to disconnect
from their devices during school hours, from “bell to bell.”
Each school district would decide how it wants to store devices and ensure compliance, Hochul said, so schools have flexibility in their implementation.
“Of course, there will be exceptions for students who need their devices for medical reasons, to assist non-English language speakers and students with learning disabilities,” Hochul said.
The policy also would require schools to provide for a method for parents to contact their children when necessary.
She said the state will provide financial support — $13.5 million — for the transition.
Hochul also used the opportunity to tout the “Unplug and Play” initiative, which aims to steer kids away from social media and toward activities such as youth sports, arts programs, civic engagement and community building.
Under her new budget plan, more than $200 million would be allocated for the state Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation and partner agencies to invest in various grants to support the NY Swims, NY Bricks and NY Plays programs, which seek to
support renovation and construction of pools, infrastructure and playgrounds, respectively.
“We’ll fund 100 new playgrounds and create more than 100,000 new out-of-school activities,” Hochul said.
Asked for comment on the phone ban, Jenna Lyle, a spokesperson for the city Department of Education, said in a statement, “The feedback we have heard from our school communities has been clear: access to cell phones in the classroom distracts from learning, divides attention, and significantly
impacts our students’ mental health.”
She continued, “Following our engagement with parent leadership groups last spring, in partnership with the Health Department, we’ve been working on an evaluation to better understand both how schools are implementing policies to restrict cell phones, and lessons learned from those implementations.”
Lyle said the agency is looking forward to partnering with Hochul to protect students’ mental health and safety.
Last September, the United Federation of Teachers outlined its support for a cell phone ban with conditions.
In a statement, Michael Mulgrew, the president of the UFT, said, “The UFT supports a statewide cell phone ban, with safeguards, because educators see the negative impact of cell phones in their classroom every day.”
Mulgrew said the safeguards should include ways for parents to reach students; funding for school districts to implement a plan; uniform disciplinary policies; and plans that don’t make educators the first and only line of enforcement.
He added, “We believe Governor Hochul understands these concerns and we look forward to working with her and the legislature to make this happen.” Q
CONZA | MCNAMARA
PLANNING ATTORNEYS
J. CONZA, ESQ.
Georgetown University, B.A. St. John’s University School of Law, J.D.
EDWARD R. MCNAMARA, ESQ.
Harvard University, A.B.
St. John’s University School of Law, J.D.
CYNTHIA
Gov. Hochul on Tuesday announced that her executive budget proposal includes a ban on cell phones in schools.
EDITORIAL AGEP
No phones in schools
We are in full support of Gov. Hochul’s proposal to have students turn their cell phones in to school authorities when the day begins and get them back when the closing bell rings.
Whatever the inconvenience and cost might be, it will be worth it. Kids are far too distracted during class if they are on their phones, making it harder for teachers to teach. And the distraction can be near impossible to avoid: According to Hochul, a recent study found that 95 percent of high school kids have access to a smartphone, and they get an average of 250 notifications a day. That same study found that 72 percent of teachers say phones in class are a major distraction.
Kids are on their phones more than enough as it is and can only benefit from a break during the school day. It’s not as if anyone’s proposing that we do what China does — allowing kids under 14 to be on social media only 40 minutes a day. It’s just while they’re in class.
Kids here need to read serious material, such as books, more often, and nonsense, such as the words floating atop silly TikTok videos, less often. Beyond that, they also need to be physically active more. Never in history have children been so fat. So we also support the state investing more in parks, pools and playgrounds to get kids to do something, anything physical rather than stare at screens, get lethargic and see their self-confidence collapse.
If parents need to reach their children in an emergency, they can do what their own parents did: Call the school. Ensuring that children can be reached when needed is one of the safeguards the United Federation of Teachers said needs to be in place when bans take effect. We agree. The UFT also wants the proper funding for the work. Hochul said the state will provide $13.5 million. Of course that won’t be enough. But the state that spends more per student than any other will find the money somewhere. For this policy, that’s the right call.
Fix this congestion fee flaw
The new congestion pricing tolls are supposed to be charged to people going into Manhattan, along with those who are already there, somewhere above 60th Street, and then head south into the Congestion Relief Zone.
So far, the results look great, as many people seem to have stopped driving into what officials previously called the Central Business District. Traffic not just going into Manhattan but even on the highways surrounding it has been lighter since the new fees took effect.
But the toll is also being charged to many people going from Manhattan to Queens, and that should not be. That’s because those who are in the city north of the tolled zone but then want to take the Ed Koch Queens-
boro Bridge into Queens have to cross into the zone ever so briefly to get onto the span. That’s not right, and as letter writer David Soukup points out this week, the technology exists to easily fix the problem.
Those same people, who may live in Queens but work uptown, can avoid the toll on the way in by taking the bridge’s upper roadway, leading them to 62nd Street. (The MTA should install multiple signs on streets leading to the bridge that say so.) But they have to go one block into the zone to get the upper roadway going back.
“The 59th Street Bridge Song” by Queens’ own Simon and Garfunkel is great, but we’re not feelin’ groovy about folks here getting tolled on it when they’re homeward bound.
MARK WEIDLER
President & Publisher
SUSAN & STANLEY MERZON Founders
Raymond G. Sito General Manager
Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief
Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
Kristen Guglielmo Editor
Naeisha Rose Editor
Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor
Stela Barbu Office Manager
Jan Schulman Art Director
Moeen Din Associate Art Director
Gregg Cohen Editorial Production Manager
Joseph Berni Art Department Associate Dennis O’Brien Proofreader
Senior Account Executives: Jim Berkoff, Beverly Espinoza
Account Executives: Ree Brinn, Patricia Gatt
Contributors:
Lloyd Carroll, Mark Lord, Ronald Marzlock
Photographers: Walter Karling, Michael Shain
Office: The Shops at Atlas Park 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-201
Glendale, NY 11385
Phone: (718) 205-8000
Fax: (718) 205-1957
E-mail: Mailbox@qchron.com Website: www.qchron.com
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
RIP, Larry Penner
Dear Editor:
We will miss Larry Penner. I knew him personally since here at the Brandywine senior community, his mother in law, Esther, was my friend and sat at the dining room table with me. Wendy, his wife, was my friend as well, and she gave me a beautiful teddy bear that I cherished, dressed like a rabbi.
I loved Larry for his humor, his caring and his knowledge that he shared. He would visit his mother-in-law and spend time with me, since I have no visitors. May his memory be for a blessing.
Thanks to the Chronicle for publishing such a wonderful article indeed full of precious memories (“Larry Penner, retired transit official, dies,” Jan. 20, qchron.com). He was knowledgeable and warm-hearted, caring and sharing. He was a good soul. He was a prolific writer and cared for his community, his family and for mass transit. The wonderful article the Chronicle wrote about him is a eulogy indeed.
Cynthia Groopman Little Neck
No vendors in BIDs
Dear Editor:
Here is something that must happen throughout the city.
Up and down Jamaica Avenue, street vendors hawk fast food, fruits and vegetables, and
whatnot. They spread out, blocking the sidewalks. There are sanitation issues as well as propane-fueled stoves and open flames. To my out-of-town friends, it’s very quaint, reminiscent of Mulberry Street in “The Godfather Part II.” A slice of old New York.
At the same time, the shopkeepers, members of the Woodhaven Business Improvement District, pay to have the sidewalks cleaned, pay for the holiday lights and sponsor the annual street fair, all the while struggling with competition from national chains and shopping malls. And, of course, they have to pay rent!
Doubtless, it can’t be easy for street vendors, but they do have an unfair advantage. Unlike brick-and-mortar stores, the street vendors don’t have much overhead.
Vendor permits are issued by the Department of Consumer Affairs and Department of Health. These city agencies should limit, if not ban outright, street vendors within a BID.
At the very least, the number and type of street vendors allowed in a BID should be subject to negotiation, real negotiation, between the
city agencies and the BIDs.
The city must do everything it can to encourage small businesses, but it should never pit one group of small businesses against another.
Neil C. Giannelli
Woodhaven
Empathy for the mentally ill
Dear Editor:
I almost cried when I read Frederick Bedell’s letter of Jan. 2, “Address mental illness.” I felt such compassion for his story but was glad he was able to survive, all because of the kindness of a stranger.
Homelessness and mental illness are symptoms of a broken society. Gov. Hochul’s solution to put police on the subways for six months is a waste of time and money. The millions she is offering would be better spent in providing long-term psychiatric and follow-up care, as well as stable long-term Section 8 housing. All politicians need to stop wasting our tax money on symptoms and, instead, direct it to
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
the root of the problem. That is often not done because addressing the problem source is often more expensive than dealing with the symptom.
It’s like having a cough with bronchitis. You take cough drops to suppress the cough but don’t go to the doctor for antibiotics to deal with the bronchitis. The bronchitis turns into pneumonia and then you land in the hospital, which will cost you much more. Hmm, perhaps you should have gone to the doctor and taken care of the source of the cough first? When only the symptom is addressed, the problem keeps returning.
Having a relative with mental illness myself, I empathize not only with the patients, but also with their families. It is a strain, especially when you don’t live close by.
I know there are many people doing good deeds to help the suffering people, but we rarely hear about them. A simple act of kindness can do wonders.
God bless you, Mr. Bedell.
Linda Carlson Woodside
Q’boro Bridge toll solution
Dear Editor:
It has been noted that someone driving from Queens on the Queensboro Bridge to points in Manhattan north of 60th Street can avoid the congestion-pricing toll by using the bridge’s upper roadway. However, it is not possible to avoid the $9 toll for the return trip, even if someone is in the congestion zone for just 10 seconds.
A solution would be to put cameras at the Queensbound entrances. Then if someone driving south past 60th Street is captured by a standard congestion camera and that person immediately goes onto the Queensbound bridge entrance, where he or she is captured by the Queensbound camera, an algorithm could nullify the congestion toll.
I realize that a law passed five years ago established the congestion relief zone as Manhattan south of and including 60th Street. Hey, Queens legislators, how about doing something meaningful for your constituents and change the law to permit this algorithm?
David Soukup Sunnyside
The public hypocrite
Dear Editor:
Re Thomas and Constance Dowd’s Jan. 16 letter, “Action, not an advocate”: I appreciate the writers’ support of my position on the registration of e-bikes and scooters, and I share their view of NYC Public Advocate Jumaane Williams. His office is a waste of money and a stepping-stone for higher positions. Williams ran for NYS governor in the 2022 Democratic primary and lost to Kathy Hochul by a wide margin. He is likely to run for NYC Mayor if Eric Adams resigns or is removed from office (City and State, Sept. 30, 2024).
Williams sacrifices public safety for political correctness. He co-sponsored the How Many Stops Act, which requires cops to file reports on nearly every interaction they have with civilians, reducing their time to protect us. He does
not have to worry about his own safety because he and his family live on the Fort Hamilton Army Base in Brooklyn, even though neither her nor his wife is a member of the military.
As public advocate, Williams receives 24/7 protection from the NYPD, an organization that he tried to defund (New York magazine, Jan. 4, 2024). If there were an Olympics event for hypocrisy, he would win a gold medal.
Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills
Don’t block hydrants
Dear Editor:
I am very concerned about cars being allowed to park at fire hydrants across the city and nothing being done about it.
Where is the fire commissioner? I have filled out many forms on 311 to the fire commissioner and to Mayor Adams to ask if something can be done about cars being allowed to park in front of working fire hydrants.
This is a very dangerous situation, and I would like to see the Fire Department be allowed to paint “No parking” in the street in front of hydrants and mark the 15 feet on either side of them. I believe that people know not to park in front of the hydrant, but are they aware of the 15-foot rule?
I heard from one deputy commissioner and that person told me that it is not the department’s responsibility to do anything about cars being parked, but it is my local precinct and the city Department of Transportation. I replied that I do not think that police or DOT agents have any idea where hydrants are located because DOT agents walk the streets, not sidewalks, and the police drive in cars and if a car is parked in front of a hydrant, they cannot see it.
I would like to have something written in the street, where hydrants are, to warn people not to park and save a life. And maybe you can find out where the fire commissioner is. I cannot seem to find him.
Kathleen Schatz Rego Park
‘No, Canada’
Dear Editor:
If President Trump can make Canada the 51st state, they won’t have to play two national anthems anymore at athletic events. Watching the Islanders at UBS play Ottawa, I thought of how much I would miss hearing “O Canada” at games vs. Canadian opponents.
Ray Hackinson Ozone Park
Bad man, bad insurers
Dear Editor:
And so it begins: the United States of America being run by a convicted felon who wants “his” generals to be more like those of Hitler. A criminal who wants his appointees to be loyal to him and not the Constitution.
Then again, it’s not that far a stretch. After all, the Republican Party gave up being loyal to our country a long time ago. Republicans threw their dignity, loyalty, decency and honor in the trash, all to ensure that President continued on next page
The CHINESE LUNAR CHINESE NEW YEAR
New Year Special Offer
January 28 th & 29 th after 3:00 pm
Free dumplings for All Dine in customers
Takeout: Order $30 or more, customer gets free dumplings
Chinese people eat dumplings during the New Year because their shape symbolizes wealth and good fortune. They also promote family unity and signify bidding farewell to the old year.
Founded by Danny Chan, we have served our Queens community for 48 years at our original Cross Bay Boulevard location. In the coming new year, we look forward to continuing to work hard bringing all our neighbors together with the same ingredients of great food and excellent service that you, our loyal customers, have come to expect.
PLANNING A PARTY?
Tisch outlines new police chase policy
High-speed pursuits only warranted in ‘the most serious and violent crimes’
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, in her latest reform to the agency since her appointment last November, last week announced the department is changing its vehicle pursuit policy in an effort to strengthen street safety while trying to ensure officers can continue to apprehend dangerous suspects.
The updated policy sets clear standards and guidelines about when officers can engage in vehicle pursuits, along with technological enhancements to improve recordkeeping and compliance. Uniformed members of the service were training on the new policy ahead of its Feb. 1 implementation date, the agency said.
Under the new rules, officer discretion to initiate a pursuit is limited to “only the most serious and violent crimes” the NYPD said, such as felonies and violent misdemeanors. Chases are not allowed for traffic infractions, violations or non-violent misdemeanors.
Discretion will be guided by the location of a pursuit and whether it is in a residential community or near a school or playground. Supervisors will be responsible for actively monitoring and managing the pursuit, including the speed, and requesting special-
ized units to assist if needed.
Officers will not be the subject of criticism or disciplinary action if they terminate a chase because they do not believe it can be continued safely, the agency said. There will be monthly reviews of vehicle pursuits to ensure the rules have been followed and to
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
continued from previous page
Trump would not run candidates against them. An attorney general who wants to investigate the honorable committee members who investigated the actual criminals who attacked the U.S. Capitol. An attorney general who, when asked if Trump could serve a third term, paused for a few seconds, finally said no, but qualified her response by saying, “unless we change the Constitution”
And the inauguration had to be brought inside? Poor little Trump; a real man would’ve braved the weather.
Just watch Trump the grifter withhold federal relief funds to the victims of Los Angeles fires unless they bow down and show fealty to this disgrace of a human being. He’ll say the insurance companies are in business to make profits. Wrong! They are there to help the people who’ve paid premiums for years!
According to the National Association
Write a Letter!
We want to hear from new voices! Letters should be no longer than 300 words and may be edited. They may be emailed to letters@qchron.com. Please include your phone number, which will not be published.
of Insurance Commissioners, U.S. insurers made record profits of over $87 billion in 2023 from their property and casualty business. In 2024, they were on pace to shatter that record again, making about $130 billion in net income in those sectors in the first three quarters.
Douglas Heller, director of insurance at the Consumer Federation of America, said it best: “We’ve been paying premiums over the past several years to prepare insurance companies for a catastrophe like this. Whatever they say, they have the resources to pay the claims.”
Robert LaRosa Sr. Whitestone
Tokyo Rose and Putin
Dear Editor:
Tokyo Rose was a woman spreading lies and fear to the American soldiers on the battlefields of World War II. Today we have TV channels spewing propaganda trying to brainwash the American people to bring division to the United States. A big lie is the same as a little white lie. They are both children of the “Father of all lies.” Change the channel: no more Tokyo Rose.
I hear Vladimir Putin laughing. Do you hear him laughing, too?
Albert Ross Glendale
identify improvements that need to be made, as well as mandated Police Academy training and an annual report on the policy and reporting procedure.
“New York is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, and our officers deserve clear guidance and smart protocols when determining whether to engage in a vehicle pursuit on our streets,” Tisch said in a statement. “The NYPD’s enforcement efforts must never put the public or the police at undue risk, and pursuits for violations and low-level crimes can be both potentially dangerous and unnecessary.”
Tisch said the advanced tools of modernday policing make it possible to apprehend criminals more safely and effectively than ever before, making many pursuits unnecessary.
“Now, our cops will have clear, unambiguous parameters for when to initiate, continue, and terminate these pursuits,” Tisch said. “These key changes will make both the police and the public safer and further improve the NYPD’s service to the city.”
mittee meeting last December, Servedio’s parents, Ary and Frank, said they want answers for their daughter’s death and changes to NYPD’s high-speed chase policy.
At its next regular meeting, CB 1 voted 23-11 to send a letter to the NYPD that outlined the joint agreement between its public safety and transportation subcommittees saying the NYPD needs to revise its chase policy, make said policy public and provide an open response to the letter.
The Chronicle reached out to the board via email to see if the new pursuit policy met its requests, but did not receive a response.
During a Jan. 16 appearance on WOR 710 Radio’s “Mendte in the Morning,” former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton told Larry Mendte he is supportive of Tisch’s new pursuit guidelines.
“That’s consistent with the policies of many other agencies around the country, reducing the risk of injury, particularly to innocent individuals,” Bratton said. “So it’s a trend that’s been underway for quite some time in the country, and New York is now catching up to that trend.”
He suggested drones may be used in the future to mitigate the use of vehicular pursuits.
“With increasing technology capabilities, drones for example, there may not be a need for some of these chases because you just follow the car with a drone, see where they end up, where they get out,” Bratton suggested. “And so I think it’s a very good policy. It will save lives, put officers’ lives less at risk in that pursuit, as well as the innocent civilians that might be in the area.”
“These key changes will make both the police and the public safer.”
—
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch
On X, Transportation Alternatives, an advocacy group for safe, equitable streets and fewer cars in New York City, said of the new policy, “This is a huge victory for everyone fighting for safe streets — and now we need to ensure these end in policy and in practice.”
In 2024, the NYPD conducted 2,278 vehicle pursuits, the agency said, with 25 percent of those resulting in some combination of a collision, property damage or physical harm. A fled car stop was the reason for 67 percent of the pursuits. There is no data available for how many of those pursuits resulted in death.
Amanda Servedio, a 36-year-old accountant who moved to Astoria from Arkansas, died as a result of a police pursuit last October in Long Island City. Police chased three burglary suspects in a truck, who struck Servedio following around a mile-long pursuit.
During a Community Board 1 joint com-
Joe Giacalone, a retired NYPD sergeant from Queens, former commander of the Bronx Cold Case Squad and professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, told the Chronicle the pursuit policy really is already in place.
“It was up to the patrol supervisor to evaluate the necessity for a pursuit,” Giacalone said in an email. “Based on several factors, the patrol supervisor [would] call it off if it was unwarranted. This has been in the patrol guide for at least 30 to 40 years so I guess it acts as a good reminder to the public and to the police what needs to be done during a pursuit.”
He said in deciding whether a chase would go on, the patrol supervisor would evaluate the alleged crime, weather conditions, time of day, vehicle condition and skill of the driver. Q
The NYPD last week announced that its pursuit policy will change on Feb. 1, allowing for police chases for only the most serious and violent crimes. PICKPIK.COM PHOTO
Senior prom in Woodhaven
Just because you’re out of high school doesn’t mean you’re too old for prom!
Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) is partnering with Sovereign Realty of NY, Nick the Balloonatic and Tony Gap to host her third annual senior prom on Feb. 12 at the Oak Ridge, located at 1 Forest Pkwy. in Woodhaven.
From 12 to 3 p.m., senior citizens from District 32, which encompasses Woodhaven, Howard Beach, Ozone Park and Glendale, are welcome to grab their dancing shoes and their closest friends and family for an afternoon filled with food, music and plenty of fun.
Nick the Balloonatic, a balloon artist with over 30 years of experience, will entertain with his balloon art, while Tony Gap will provide the tunes to keep everyone grooving.
Refreshments will be served, including a pasta lunch, beverages and dessert. Attendance is free, but registration is required to ensure space for everyone. Call Ariola’s office at (718) 7381083 to reserve your spot for what she said is one of her most popular events of the year. Q — Kristen Guglielmo
Kindness and culture with Cucina Palermo
Students of PS 207 Rockwood Park in Howard Beach were in for a treat last week, as the neighborhood’s own Rita Prisco visited for an assembly.
Prisco, in black at center left, is known as Cucina Palermo online. She has amassed nearly 500,000 followers on TikTok and 80,000 on Instagram by sharing her homestyle, authentic Sicilian recipes with her fans. Prisco frequently mentions small businesses in and around Howard Beach in her posts.
An author of two cookbooks, Prisco recently delved into the children’s genre with her newest, titled “Piccola Francesca.” The book focuses on balancing cultural pride with the desire to belong, according to its Amazon listing.
Prisco’s videos and books can be found at linktr.ee/cucinapalermorita.
Serena Loiacono, an art teacher at PS 207, told the Chronicle via email that Prisco read her book aloud to the school’s third-grade
students, sharing her words of kindness and acceptance.
“The assembly was a success, and the students heard the words, ‘share what’s special, share what’s you, and friends will find their way to you,’” Loiacono said. “In a world for our children where negativity is commonly seen and heard, we feel so grateful for sharing the talents of a neighborhood author who truly understands the power of kindness and pride in our uniqueness!” — Kristen Guglielmo
Trump’s immigration actions
continued from page 2
One especially controversial action taken by Trump on Monday was his move to revoke birthright citizenship, which is enshrined in the Constitution. The 14th Amendment states that “all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.”
NPR reported Monday that Trump intends to interpret the phrase “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” such that children born in the United States to undocumented parents would not automatically receive citizenship status.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards condemned the move that day.
“It’s not surprising that one of this president’s first acts in office will be a sickening, xenophobic attack on the citizenship of millions of Americans of all ages, but under no circumstance will our borough of more than 1 million immigrants sit idly by while our Constitutional rights are trampled,” Richards said. “For every push this new administration makes over the next four years to dehumanize and demoralize our neighbors, we will defend our values like our lives depend on it. Because they do.”
Immigrants’ rights advocates, including the American Civil Liberties Union, on Monday sued the Trump administration over the action. Then, attorneys general
from 22 states, including Letitia James of New York, took their own legal action seeking to invalidate the order and prevent its implementation.
“This fundamental right to birthright citizenship, rooted in the 14th Amendment and born from the ashes of slavery, is a cornerstone of our nation’s commitment to justice,” James said in a press release. “Our constitution is not open to reinterpretation by executive order or presidential decree.”
A spokesperson from Holden’s office said he looks forward to how things will develop and that he believes birthright citizenship is worth examining.
Meanwhile, the Laken Riley Act, named for the 22-year-old woman who was killed last year by an unauthorized immigrant from Venezuela, passed the Senate 64-35 Monday. It would require the DHS to detain undocumented immigrants charged with, arrested for or convicted of burglary, theft, larceny or shoplifting. It already had passed the House 264-159.
James last week wrote a letter urging senators to vote no, saying the law would violate due process and fair treatment.
The bill could become the first piece of legislation to hit Trump’s desk for a signature.
“Public safety should never be politicized — Democrats do so at their peril,” Holden said. “Laken Riley died because of sanctuary laws. May her memory not be in vain.” Q
QueensLink gets $400K grant
continued from page 4
QueensLink has wide support among South and Southeast Queens elected officials.
Link’s application for the Reconnecting Communities grant.
According to a press release, U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica), Assemblymembers Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) and Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr., Councilmembers Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) and Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), along with Sanders, Anderson and Brooks-Powers, all signed letters of support of Queens-
“We are honored to receive this grant from the United States Department of Transportation, which brings us one step closer to making the QueensLink vision a reality.” said Rick Horan, the executive director of QueensLink, in a statement.
“With this grant funding, we’ll be able to show citizens and decision-makers just how impactful the project will be. We firmly believe that QueensLink’s emphasis on transit equity, climate change mitigation, and small businesses will benefit everyone.” Q
The writer, historian and longtime transportation advocate was 71 Larry Penner, retired transit official, dies
by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor
Mass transit lost one of its biggest champions last week.
Larry Penner, a well-known former federal transportation official, advocate, historian and writer, died at 71 last Thursday after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Originally from Brooklyn, Penner moved to Great Neck, LI at a young age and lived there through the end of his life. He grew up just 200 feet away from the city line, he told the Chronicle in a 2016 interview, and said his whole life “really revolved around Queens.”
Though he was very politically engaged, volunteering for Jim Buckley’s 1970 Senate campaign and later running for City Council, State Assembly and Congress himself, Penner devoted his life to mass transit.
His bus as a teenager was the original New York City Transit Q12A, later renamed the Q79, which ran along Little Neck Parkway.
Wendy Penner, his wife of 27 years, said he never got his driver’s license — he firmly believed that people need transit to get around and could not depend solely on cars.
Penner served for 31 years in the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration Region 2 New York Office, where he developed, reviewed, approved and oversaw billions of dollars in programs and
capital projects for agencies such as the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and Long Island Rail Road.
He remained one of mass transit’s biggest fans after he retired, frequently penning letters to the editor about local issues involving transportation, city politics or a combination of the two.
With years of experience under his belt, Wendy Penner said, her husband felt he could really tell readers what was going on in the world of transit.
He had an affinity for the historical, transportation-related or otherwise. In an interview with the Chronicle from last November, he recalled the days in the ’60s when passengers could get bubble gum for a penny at subway stations.
Penner also found it important to preserve local businesses, with Mangel’s Delicatessen on Northern Boulevard and the hamburger chain Wetson’s included among his favorite spots that no longer exist.
He met his wife at the former Scobee Grill in Little Neck, and she said the initial purpose of the meeting was for her to “size him up” and introduce him to a friend.
“But I looked at him and I said, I’m keeping him. He’s mine,” Wendy Penner said.
The pair got married on the Skyline Princess, which sailed from Flushing Marina to the
Wendy Penner, right, said her husband, Larry, was buried in the tuxedo T-shirt that he wore under his suit at their wedding as a testament to his sense of humor. COURTESY PHOTO
Statue of Liberty and back.
“Under his suit and his dress shirt, he had a tuxedo T-shirt,” Wendy Penner said. “And at some point before the meal began, he took the shirt off and he had this T-shirt under his jacket. And that became his trademark at weddings or ... bar mitzvahs or parties.
“In fact, I even had him buried in that,” she said. “Because that was him.”
Penner’s funeral was held at Riverside-Nas-
sau North Chapels in Great Neck on Sunday and he was interred at Montefiore Cemetery in Jenkintown, Pa.
In addition to her husband’s great sense of humor, Wendy Penner spoke to his warmth. Although he was never a cat person, he thought winning over her three cats would help him win her heart, too.
One of them “totally went and became his cat,” she said, adding that they ended up taking care of some of the neighborhood cats together.
Penner also liked to bring people together, his wife said. Every year or so, the pair would organize a dinner party at a restaurant with their friends, some of whom they have known for decades.
In his final letter to the Chronicle, published in the Jan. 2 edition (one he sent earlier ran Jan. 9), Penner said he was grateful that he and his fellow writers have the opportunity to express their views.
His gratitude was far from one-sided.
“I’ll miss Larry Penner. He was great to the Queens Chronicle, one of our most frequent letter writers, always with a good word for the paper, and for local papers in general, and was a great source of information about mass transit funding and history,” Peter Mastrosimone, the Chronicle’s editor-in-chief, said. “His loss leaves a void no one else can quite fill.” Q
- In Vitro Fertilization
- Egg Donation
- Inseminations
- We Help You Choose if You Want a Girl or a Boy
- Pregnancy Loss
- Male Infertility
- Treatment for Singe Women
- Difficult Cases
Nowadays, infertility is a problem that has a solution solution, in the vast majority of cases, if it is treated by a team of experienced professionals with the appropriate infrastructure and equipment. THE
Who’s running for mayor in 2025?
A look at the candidates and their most recent campaign finance records
by Kristen Guglielmo Editor
There are many hats in the ring for the 2025 mayoral election, and while we’re still months away from the June 24 primaries, all eyes are on the numbers.
The city Campaign Finance Board on Jan. 15 updated its database with the latest financial standings of the 2025 mayoral hopefuls.
City Comptroller Brad Lander, a progressive Democrat and staunch critic of Mayor Adams, boasts the most in his war chest at $3,233,353, with $1,185,781 of that coming from private donors.
Lander’s priorities, as outlined on his campaign website, include stronger leadership, and an affordable, safe city. He’s been endorsed by United Auto Workers Region 9A.
Adams, a moderate-conservative Democrat, trails Lander at $3,149,194. The embattled mayor was denied matching funds by the Campaign Finance Board twice.
Democratic Socialist Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) has raised $641,816 for his mayoral campaign, and has $415,555 remaining.
The first South Asian man to serve in the NYS Assembly, Mamdani’s mayoral campaign is running on freezing rent, building housing for working families, fare-free buses and free childcare for all. His endorsements include the Democratic Socialists of America, UAW Region 9A and Jewish Voice for Peace Action.
Another one of Queens’ own mayoral hopefuls, progressive state Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) raised $162,231 in private funds, but after spending, has $31,094 in her account. Ramos has been endorsed by UAW Region 9A, Downtown Women for Change and International Brotherhood of Teamsters Locals 804 and 808.
During his recent State of the City speech, Adams promised to make New York more affordable for families. He recently celebrated a victory when the City Council passed a modified version of his City of Yes for Housing Opportunity zoning proposal, which is estimated by the city to enable the creation of 80,000 homes over the next 15 years.
Multiple reports claim that Adams may opt to run on a different party line. In a recent Tucker Carlson interview, Adams said the Democrats “left” him and the working class.
Scott Stringer, the former city comptroller, officially announced his candidacy for mayor on Jan. 16 after establishing an exploratory committee last year. He has a balance of $2,377,628, with $788,543 coming from private funds.
On her campaign website, Ramos advocates for affordable housing, a holistic approach to public safety, environmental justice, expanding housing access for new arrivals and universal childcare.
Progressive state Sen. Zellnor Myrie (D-Brooklyn) garnered $647,898 from private donors and has $268,172 in his war chest. He’s focused on affordability, and his “Rebuild NYC” plan hopes to build and preserve one million homes.
PInvestor Whitney Tilson, a moderate Democrat with no formal political experience, has an estimated balance of $267,701 after spending. He raised $424,968 in private contributions. On his campaign website, Tilson promises to tackle the affordability crisis, cut crime by 50 percent and end street homelessness.
Adams, above, faces stiff competition in the upcoming 2025 mayoral primary, including from, at right, clockwise from top left, city Comptroller Brad Lander, former city Comptroller Scott Stringer, Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani and state Sen. Jessica Ramos.
Michael Blake, a moderate Democrat, former Bronx assemblymember and White House aide to former President Obama, raised $146,084 in private funds and has $90,473 left after spending. The founder and CEO of the Kairos Democracy Project, Blake offers a platform focused on economic freedom and fair wages, universal childcare, affordable housing and expanding green living. There aren’t just Democrats in the race.
rimary day is June 24.
Independent candidate James Walden, an antitrust and government law attorney who once served as an assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, has netted $1,130,214 in donations and has $899,377 in his account, with $500,000 in outstanding loans.
Walden outlined his own housing plan on his
campaign website, arguing that the City of Yes has “serious flaws.” He wants to fight corruption, add affordable housing and ensure fair and just policing.
Other declared candidates include Gonzalo Duran, the vice chairman of the Bronx County Conservative Party; Republican Darren Aquino, the CEO of Advocates for Disabled Americans, Veterans, Police, Firemen & Families; and Independent James Manning, a pastor from North Carolina. There is no campaign finance information available for those candidates.
Multiple reports say former Democrat Gov. Andrew Cuomo is eyeing a political comeback with a mayoral run in 2025. Curtis Sliwa, the founder of the Guardian Angels and the 2021 Republican mayoral candidate, said he intends on running but has not yet filed, according to the city Campaign Finance Board’s website. Q
SEQ sounds off on Trump inauguration
City Council Speaker Adams calls prez ‘Felon 47’ at MLK day event
by Naeisha Rose Editor
“Felon 47.”
That is the new moniker City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) ascribed to President Trump at a Martin Luther King Jr. Day event in Jamaica on Monday.
At the celebration, held at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, Adams was one of many people from Southeast Queens who felt queasy about the inauguration of the new president, who has become a divisive figure in politics since first making a bid for the executive office back in 2015, on a day that celebrates a civil rights icon who fought for unity.
A 60-year Addisleigh Park resident shared Adams’ sentiments.
“I think it is a sad day that we had to celebrate [Trump] on one end — a felon that did so many things,” said Rose Watson, who
wished MLK Day and the inauguration did not fall on the same day. “We are just so sorry we had to split it up.”
“To God be the glory, we are looking forward to 2025. We are looking for great things to happen, in spite of the felon that was just elected.”
One man from South Jamaica said he spoke with his wife about the coincidence, and thought there was a more appropriate day for Trump to be inaugurated.
Gift Opuiyo of South Jamaica said President Trump’s inauguration should have been on Jan. 6 instead of MLK Day.
“I think it should have been on Jan. 6,” said Gift Opuiyo, a city schoolteacher, referring to the attack on Capitol Hill in 2021. “I’m not happy about it. Let’s say it happens every Monday — it could have waited
until next week or until tomorrow. The fact that he was inaugurated on a day so special to the entire country — I think it is a slap in the face.”
The Constitution mandates that presidential terms begin at noon on Jan. 20.
Marie Slaughter, a correction officer, said it does not matter who is president, God is in charge.
“Sometimes you have to get through the pharaoh to get to where God wants us to be,” Slaughter said, making a Bible reference.
Fannie Hodges found the day bittersweet.
“On one hand it is ironic that he is being [inaugurated] on MLK Day,” said Hodges,
who came to the MLK event with a cousin from Eastern Queens, “but at the same time, it is a reminder that we have a lot of work to do. We have to move forward together ... Sometimes, when we are under pressure, we unite and organize. I feel like we have been a little relaxed [as a Black community].”
Adams, the speaker, also slammed Mayor Adams for attending Trump’s swearing-in instead of MLK events here in the city.
At his inauguration, Trump said his presidency will make King’s “dream come true.”
“Together we will strive to make his dream a reality,” said the president as he addressed Black people who voted for him.
King’s son, Martin Luther King III, spoke with CBS News and said it is time for people to let go of political disagreements and to move the nation forward.
“The question is how do we navigate in civility?” said King. Q
Mayor
PHOTO BY MICHAEL APPLETON / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE, ABOVE, AND FILE PHOTOS
PHOTO BY NAEISHA ROSE
Our
Energy Assessments involve a detailed examination and evaluation of your home to determine which energy saving and weatherization enhancements, such as insulation and air sealing are required. They involve tests such as:
Combustion efficiency and safety tests to ensure your heating system’s optimal operation
Inspecting walls, attics or roof cavities for insulation
Use of thermal imaging, and blower door testing to assess draftiness and verify the correct placement of insulation
When homeowners combine proper whole home insulation with thorough air sealing, they can expect to:
1. Achieve reduced energy bills.
2. Enjoy greater temperature consistency throughout your home.
3. Reduce the strain on heating and cooling systems.
4. Enhance indoor air quality.
5. Experience year-round comfort in your home.
BENSOL TECH LLC
Celebrating Catholic Schools Week Annual event runs Jan. 26-Feb. 1
Since 1974, National Catholic Schools Week has been the annual celebration of Catholic education in the United States. It starts the last Sunday in January and runs all week, which in 2025 is Jan. 26 to Feb. 1.
The theme for National Catholic Schools Week 2025 is “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members. Through these events, schools focus on the value Catholic education provides to young people and its contributions to the church, communities and the nation.
Daily themes and celebrations are observed as follows:
Sunday: celebrating the parish Catholic schools benefit all year long from the religious guidance, prayers and support parishes provide. Many parishes join in the National Catholic Schools Week celebration by devoting a Mass to Catholic education. Schools start the week by inviting parishioners and community members to parish-centered events and school open houses that feature their outstanding academic pro-
grams, religious education and service opportunities.
Monday: celebrating the community
A central aspect of Catholic education is learning the importance of service to others. When students take part in service activities – both local and beyond – they demonstrate the values and faith they gain through their Catholic education and learn how to make the world a better place. When they observe how others serve the community, they gain an appreciation for how they can continue to serve others their entire lives.
Tuesday: celebrating students
Schools celebrate students during National Catholic Schools Week by planning enjoyable and meaningful activities for them and recognizing their accomplishments. They encourage students to reflect on the benefits of Catholic education and how the grounding in faith, knowledge and service it provides will help them throughout their lives.
Wednesday: celebrating the nation
On National Appreciation Day for Catholic schools, students, families, edu-
Divine Mercy Mercy CATHOLIC ACADEMY
101-60 92nd Street, Ozone Park, NY 11416
Phone (718) 845-3074
At Divine Mercy Catholic Academy we offer:
• A dedicated and qualified faculty and staff
• A safe and structure environment (CCTV)
• Lifelong Christian Values – Daily Religion Classes
• Internet Access in Classrooms
• Classes with SMARTboards, SMART TV and individual Chromebooks and iPads
• LearnIT reading and math classes
• Spanish Classes for Gr. 5- 8
• Family tuition rates available
• School lunch program
• Bus transportation (if eligible)
• Collaboration with St. John’s University
• Variety of activities like Student Council, Art Club, Lego Club, Chess Club & Drama Club!
• Aftercare program from 3 to 6pm for all grade levels
cators and other Catholic school supporters communicate the value of Catholic education to government leaders. They share information with leaders on the significant contributions Catholic schools make to the nation and their role in preparing students to be good citizens. They pray for the nation and recognize all those who serve.
Thursday: celebrating vocations
By focusing on faith, knowledge and service, Catholic schools prepare children to use their God-given talents to the fullest later in life. National Catholic Schools Week offers an opportunity for students to explore the many life paths that enable them to use their talents well in the service of God and others.
Friday: celebrating faculty, staff and volunteers
Teachers are the backbone of Catholic schools. On this day, schools honor teachers, as well as administrators and staff who support teachers in their important work, and thank the parents, grandparents, alumni, parishioners and school board members who provide volunteer service.
Saturday: celebrating families
Parents, guardians and other family members play a vital role in Catholic education. Not only do they volunteer at the school, they instill values and expectations for academic excellence in their children at home. We acknowledge the role of families in Catholic education and celebrate their contributions to the success of our schools on the last day of National Catholic Schools Week, and all year long. Q — courtesy National Catholic Educational Association
Accredited by Cognia International Call for more information regarding registration/school visits Se Habla Español - Maria Guzman-Paczkowski - 718-845-3074
Please join us at our Open House: Sunday, January 26 th 10:00AM - 12:00PM
St. Helen Catholic Academy
Howard Beach
Our vision at the St. Helen Catholic Academy is, “To educate our students for the future and provide them with a strong foundation in the Catholic faith for a lifetime!”
We strongly believe that your child is capable of reaching his/ her full potential with a strong balance of spiritual, social, personal, educational and physical activities which will be embedded in our daily curriculum. sthelencatholicacademy.org 83-09 157th Ave., Howard Beach, NY 11414 718-835-4155
➤ Faith Forma on: Daily prayer and spiritual development, complete sacramental program for First Penance, First Communion and Confirma on, First Friday Mass, prayer services and community service projects.
➤ Rigorous Academics: Full-day Kindergarten, Pre- K 3 and 4-year-old full-day and half-day programs, focused instruc onal schedule of 8:10 a.m. -3 p.m. with 7 a.m. arrival and a erschool program un l 6 p.m., TACHS Prepara on, Algebra 1 Regents Par cipa on, PK-8 Spanish program, iPad and SMARTBoard™ technology, fully equipped STEM lab, digital tools, coding and engineering design applica ons.
➤ Specialized Programs: Free 3-K-for-All & PreK-for-All, a er school extracurricular ac vi es, training in music and ar t, chess, drama club, engineering club, coding club, book club, Kiwanis builders club, soccer, Paul Effman music program, basketball and CYO sports Member Na onal Junior Honor Society.
Values and teachings of a Catholic education
The Catholic educational program is based on religious beliefs and values, which enable students to grow in their understanding of themselves, their relationship with God and their relationship with others.
Catholic high schools p romote the education of young people to their full potential; their teachers respect and encourage real learning experiences. Students acquire knowledge and develop the skills necessary for success in higher educational pursuits and a wide range of careers.
They also offer a community environment in which students can discuss and live out the values upon which their education is based. They are encouraged to contribute to society and to assume leadership roles in shaping public attitudes and programs.
In Catholic high schools, young people learn to question, to establish confidence in their own good choices in life and to experience the sense of accomplishment that stems from individual achievement and responsibility.
Catholic high schools :
• build character;
• foster community service;
• encourage involvement;
• develop real-world skills;
• shape leaders;
• reward achievement;
• reinforce values;
• allow for spiritual growth;
• embrace differences;
• raise standards;
• empower each student; and
• celebrate school spirit.
T h e Diocese of Brooklyn offers a high school fair in the fall on one night in Queens and another night in Brooklyn where students, faculty and administrators from the high schools are available to answer questions and distribute materials.
Each high school also offers open houses and tours so that parents and prospective students can meet with current students, faculty and administrators and learn about the academics and activities the schools offer.
Additionally, many schools usually offe r “Buddy Days” in which prospective students can spend a day in the school attending classes with a student who is currently enrolled.
All of the high schools also have websites that highlight their specific admissions policies and dates for open houses. Q — dioceseofbrooklyn.org/schools / secondary-education
Adams touts more than $114B ’26 plan
Citizens Budget Commission and city comptroller think budget is lackluster
by Naeisha Rose Editor
In harmony with his State of the City address last Thursday, Mayor Adams’ $114.5 billion preliminary budget plan is focused on helping families and increasing affordability, but it is not without controversy.
His plan for fiscal year 2026 is about $2.1 billion more than what was adopted last June for 2025. It is focused on protecting critical programs and funding mandated costs while supporting initiatives the mayor said keep New Yorkers safe, make the city more affordable, invest in education, improve quality of life and promote economic development.
“We are making major investments in affordable housing, addressing the severe mental health crises, keeping New Yorkers safe, providing our children with a worldclass education and our families with affordable child care, developing major infrastructure projects and parks, investing in cultural institutions, and so much more,” Adams said in a statement. “Our administration is working hard every day to deliver for working-class New Yorkers and make New York City the best place to raise a family.”
The Citizens Budget Commission and city Comptroller Brad Lander, however, believe the plan is underbudgeted and falls short of meeting the city’s fiscal needs.
said the mayor’s spending plan is a lackluster proposal and fails to address the city’s deeper budget challenges head on.
“The Mayor’s proposed budget for FY26 still reflects $3 billion in structurally underbudgeted costs, continuing the budget fiction that my office and other fiscal watchdogs have repeatedly called out,” Lander said in a statement. “Despite a 5.6 percent increase in tax revenues, it adds nothing to reserves.”
The preliminary budget plan is balanced, said the Mayor’s Office. A $5.5 billion budget gap was closed with a combination of savings and new revenue. That includes making a $2.3 billion prepayment from fiscal year 2025 to 2026. The city reduced projected out-year deficits below their November 2024 financial plan levels to $4.2 billion in fiscal year 2027, $5.4 billion in 2028 and $5.1 billion in 2029.
The budget also includes $1.2 billion in general reserve funds and $7.3 billion more in other reserves.
“He is neglecting to scale up the city’s very small ‘housing first’ pilot.”
— City Comptroller Brad Lander
In Adams’ plan for fiscal year 2026, which begins July 1 of this year, almost $1.2 billion would go toward what he called critical programs: the shelter re-estimate ($554 million); rental assistance ($325 million); city public school’s nurses ($129 million); and supportive housing ($64.2 million).
er, says it
“Mayor Eric Adams leveraged strong revenues and lower-than-budgeted migrant costs to pay for deliberately underbudgeted expenses this year and close the fiscal year 2026 budget gap on paper,” said Andrew Rein, CBC’s president, in a statement on Jan. 16, the day the preliminary budget was released. “However, next year’s spending plan simply does not reflect reality — it is short nearly $4.0 billion needed to fund existing services.”
Lander, who is running to unseat Adams,
More than $500 million would go toward state-and-federally mandated programs, such as the MTA ($241 million); reimbursements costs for foster and adoptive parents, along with kinship guardians ($138.8 million); charter schools ($87 million); and early intervention ($55.1 million), a federal program that provides support and services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays and disabilities.
The mayor is committing about $187.1 million toward safety in efforts to get the homeless out of subway stations; secure clinical units within jails; increase swim-
Pair of charter review panels
It’s a tale of two commissions.
The City Council on Tuesday announced the appointments to its Charter Revision Commission, known as the NYC Commission to Strengthen Local Democracy. Cochaired by District Council 37 Executive Director Henry Garrido and New York Urban League President & CEO Arva Rice, the panel includes Bishop Calvin Rice, senior pastor of the New Jerusalem Worship Center in Jamaica, and Allan Swisher, general counsel and senior policy advisor for the Queens borough president, among its 17 members.
The commission is charged with reviewing the City Charter and engaging the public in a process that will result in proposals to improve city government. “It will not be considering any proposals that weaken local democracy or New Yorkers’ rights,” the Council said in its announcement. That statement reflects criticism of the rival New York City Charter Revision Commission, created by Mayor Adams, which is holding public input sessions now. The Council announcement did not say when its commission will do so. Q
— Peter C. Mastrosimone
ming lessons; enhance city Department of Correction recruiting efforts; improve intersection safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists; bolster security and safety staff at DOC facilities; and expand bridge and tunnel repair capacity at the city Department of Transportation.
About $77.1 million would be allocated toward cutting taxes for low-income people; an anti-harassment tenant protection program; funding the Mayor’s Office of Public Engagement Home Support Unit; expanding the Fatherhood Initiative; supporting new technology and tools to improve efficiency of the PEU Benefits Screening initiative; and the mayor’s “moonshot goal” of achieving 30,000 pre-apprenticeships for lowincome participants by 2030.
Education programs such as Summer Rising, Learning to Work, the Pathways program, Fair Future, College Choice, Assertive Community Engagement & Success and opening more schoolyards and playgrounds could cost $184.27 million.
Quality-of-life initiatives such as more park cleanings, staff and programming for the Parks Department, along with 12 more people to tackle the city’s rat problem, could cost $21.12 million.
Economic development funding would be $11.65 million.
The mayor would also like to invest $170 billion over the next decade to improve infrastructure, including $612 million for repairs on the ED Koch Queensboro Bridge lower roadway and $3.18 billion for repairs to the Newtown Creek combined Sewer Overflow Storage Tunnel.
That last item has support from environmentalists.
“Riverkeeper strongly supports the Adams administration’s proposed $190 Million in FY26 for the Newtown Creek Combined Sewer Overflow Storage Tunnel and applauds the administration for its commitment to ensuring this critical project comes to fruition,” Tracey Brown, president of Hudson Riverkeeper, said in a statement. “The storage tunnel will improve water quality by drastically reducing raw sewage and polluted stormwater contamination into Newtown Creek, as required by the Clean Water Act and Superfund law.”
Lander, however, found the mayor’s plan gimmicky.
“Earlier this week, Mayor Adams announced $650 million in new mental health initiatives, but failed to mention that this funding is stretched over five years — the investment for fiscal year 2026 is only $137 million, so it’s less than meets the eye. And he is neglecting to scale up this city’s very small ‘housing first’ pilot (aka Street to Housing), preferring to stick with the ‘housing last’ models that leave people with serious mental illness falling through the cracks.”
Lander also wants more funding for 3K for All and CUNY. Q
Mets Mgr. Jeff Torborg dies
Jeff Torborg, an ex-major league catcher who managed the New York Mets in 1992 and 1993, died Jan. 19. He was 83. His cause of death was not released.
A light-hitting backup in his career, Torborg played for the Los Angeles Dodgers and California Angels from 1964 to 1973.
Torborg, who won American League Manager of the Year with the Chicago White Sox in 1990, joined the Mets in 1992, replacing Bud Harrelson, who was fired in the closing days of the 1991 season.
He led the Mets to a fifth-place finish and a 72-90 record. He was replaced by Dallas Green after a 13-25 start in 1993. He also managed the Cleveland Indians, Montreal Expos and Florida Marlins. He became a popular baseball broadcaster.
Torborg played for pennant-winning Dodgers teams in 1964 and 1966, but did not play in either World Series. He had the distinction of catching three no-hitters, including Sandy Koufax’s perfect game in 1965 and, in 1973, the first of Nolan Ryan’s record seven. Q — Michael Gannon
Mayor Adams has proposed a preliminary budget of $114.5 billion for fiscal year 2026. One mayoral competitor, city Comptroller Brad Land-
falls short. PHOTO COURTESY NYC MAYOR
Newtown Creek partial cleanup set
by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency last Friday finalized a plan to begin cleaning up some of the worst contamination in Newtown Creek’s East Branch.
The action on the waterway, which is within the Newtown Creek Superfund site declared in 2010, is an interim part of a larger effort. Now that a plan has been selected, an EPA spokesman said, the agency will talk to parties responsible for the cleanup to reach a legal agreement and begin the engineering design work.
The full cleanup’s schedule will be developed at or near completion of the design work, and the spokesman said the process will likely take years to complete.
Once the planned cleanup concludes, the agency could call for further action to address any remaining contamination in the East Branch. However, the EPA said in a press release that it expects consistency between the selected cleanup plan and the final remedy eventually determined for the rest of the creek.
The EPA said the plan calls for dredg-
ing and capping, or removing contaminated sediment to a depth that allows protective caps to be placed over the dredged areas without reducing water depths.
The depth is slated to be at least 3 feet, the agency said, though deeper dredging will be completed in some areas. Before the plan’s design is completed, a comprehensive investigation will determine which ones, among other project details.
The plan also will involve stabilizing contaminated sediment when necessary, keeping harmful substances in one place by mixing in materials such as cement. While the EPA and the state determine how to address upland contamination sources, sealed bulkheads will be installed as barriers to ensure that contaminated water does not seep from the shoreline to the creek.
The EPA said all dredged materials will be taken to facilities licensed to receive the waste or approved locations.
“This plan will help reduce risks in the East Branch Portion of Newtown Creek and is good news for the communities around Newtown Creek,” EPA Regional Administrator Lisa Garcia said. Q
Lions convention in Middle Village, Feb. 8
Learn about volunteer opportunities; gain skills in finance, administration
by Naeisha Rose Editor
The president of Lions International, a global philanthropic organization, is making his way from Brazil to Middle Village for the 68th annual Mid-Winter Convention for the 20-K1 Brooklyn & Queens subsidiary, on Saturday, Feb. 8, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Lions President Fabrício Oliveira will be the guest speaker at the event, held at Christ the King High School, located at 68-02 Metropolitan Ave.
Romeo Hitlall, the subsidiary’s governor, who also is running for City Council District 28, is hosting the event, said Ngozeka Onwualu, secretary and president of the Rosedale Lions Club.
To register for the convention, visit midwinterconvention.org.
“All the Lions from Brooklyn and Queens from district 20-K1 converge together,” said Onwualu about the affair. “Fabrício Oliveira is going to give an impeccable speech. His slogan this year is: Make Your Mark.”
youth, disaster relief, vision, humanitarian efforts and more,” said Onwualu about the core issues the volunteers work on.
“Some people might do clothing drives. Every club is different and they may do something unique for the community that they serve.”
Lions International President Fabrício Oliveira will deliver a keynote speech at the Brooklyn & Queens Mid-Winter Lions Convention.
B SPORTS EAT
Nets honor Vince Carter
by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor
There have not been too many joyous days at Barclays Center this season. The Nets are in rebuild/tank mode, which means wins are few. This Saturday evening, however, the mood should be brighter as the club will honor one of the greatest players in its history, Vince Carter, by retiring his No. 15. It will now hang from the Barclays Center rafters.
Carter played an incredible 22 seasons in the NBA and did not retire until he was 43. He was a seven-time All-Star. Despite these lofty credentials, he remains overlooked when lists of NBA greats are compiled. People understandably obsess over championship rings and unfortunately, Carter never won a title. When he played for the Nets they called New Jersey’s Meadowlands Arena home. There is no argument that more attention would have been paid had “Vinsanity” (Yes, that term preceded Jeremy Lin’s “Linsanity”) been in Brooklyn.
The Nets have wisely brought Carter back into their fold in recent years, having him as a color analyst on their YES Network telecasts when Sarah Kustok is away. He has a nice rapport with Nets play-by-play voice and Forest Hills High School alum Ian Eagle.
The Nets recently added small forward and Princeton University alum Tosan Evbuomwan to their roster. He becomes their first Princeton
player since Brian Taylor played for them during their ABA Long Island heyday.
I was saddened to learn of the passing of former Mets and Madison Square Garden official photographer George Kalinsky last week at the age of 88. His photographs include Willis Reed coming out of the runway for the deciding Game 7 of the 1970 NBA championship series against the Los Angeles Lakers despite a serious knee injury, and the 1971 heavyweight title bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. He was also famous for his photos of Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley and the Rolling Stones, as well as the artists who played at the Concert for Bangladesh on Aug. 1, 1971. That remains the most famous rock concert in MSG history.
Sinatra and Ali were not only subjects of Kalinsky’s work, but were also longtime friends. His Rolodex of boldfaced names from all walks of life could have gotten him into the Guinness Book of World Records.
Despite all the well-known folks in George’s orbit, he never tried to big-league anyone. He was always gracious to me as he frequently told me how much he enjoyed reading my columns. George embodied the “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice” philosophy of New York television icon Joe Franklin.
You will be missed, George. Q See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.
At the event, which has a general admission of $100 and comes with a continental breakfast and catered lunch, people will learn about the volunteer work the Lions do, vendors will have the opportunity to promote their products and there will be informational sessions where people may learn about finance, advertising, marketing and administration, skills they can use while volunteering at the organization or in their everyday lives, said Onwualu.
“It’s an opportunity for different vendors to come out and introduce their businesses to the Lions community, and they will be afforded the opportunity to advertise their business in our newsletter,” said the Rosedale Lions Club president.
The organization has several causes it supports.
“Childhood cancer, diabetes, hunger,
Her branch primarily focuses on hunger eradication, but this year the group has also started an eyeglasses campaign and has collected 17,000 brand-new frames as of Jan. 8. The campaign ends on May 28, and those interested in donating may email rosedalelionsfoundatinc@gmail.com.
“We are sending them to people in countries who need the frames,” said Onwualu, who is also the president and executive director of the Rosedale Lions Club Foundation. “They will also be distributed throughout the U.S.”
The Marie H. Katzenbach School for the Deaf in New Jersey will distribute the eyewear internationally for the club, said Onwualu.
Some members from the Rosedale Lions Club will also be doing a skit about a day in the life of a volunteer in the organization, said Onwualu.
Onwualu will also be in a choir singing in remembrance of Yvonne Lewis and Millicent May Miller, members who passed at the end of 2023 and 2024, respectively. Q
Wagner gets call from the Hall
“Hey, Mets fans — just want to thank you for all your support and all that you’ve done for me over my four years in New York. Couldn’t do this without you.”
After a decade of being the bridesmaid, Billy Wagner, the New York Mets closer from 2006 through the beginning of 2009, expressed his gratitude on the club’s X page Tuesday night after being voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Wagner, in his 10th and final year of eligibility, was named on 82.5 percent of the ballots; 75 percent is required. He will be inducted this summer with
two ex-Yankees, outfielder Ichiro Suzuki and pitcher CC Sabathia, outfielder Dave Parker and slugger Richie Allen. Wagner, who came to the majors with the Houston Astros in 1995, joined the Mets from the Philadelphia Phillies as a free agent. His 422 career saves presently rank eighth on the all-time list. His 101 saves in Flushing place him sixth in Mets history. He appeared in two games for the Mets in 2009 before being traded to the Boston Red Sox. He finished his career with the Atlanta Braves in 2010. Q — Michael Gannon
ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING
Twin peeks Mrs. gallery hosts two exhibits, in two spaces
by Marlee Wollman
Situated in the secluded, unassuming neighborhood of Maspeth, the Mrs. gallery continues its tradition of presenting enchanting contemporary art with two new exhibitions. Last Friday evening, the pair of shows commenced with convivial opening events, one around the corner from the other; the adventurous sculptural and painted works of Sachiko Akiyama, Susan Klassen Sullivan, and Robert Zehnder in the main gallery, and the captivating yet meditative tableus of Gail Spaien in the satellite space.
The exhibits, “Observation and Imagination” and “Tree At My Window,” both free, showcase distinct but complementary artistic approaches. While Spaien’s paintings examine the serenity of calming interiors and the tranquil poetry of observed spaces, Akiyama, Sullivan and Zehnder bring the wild beauty of nature to life, inviting viewers to reflect on transformation, interconnectedness and renewal.
The group exhibit, “Tree At My Window,” delves into the parallels between the human experience and natural forms, much like the themes explored in Robert Frost’s poem, where nature mirrors the emotions and reflections of the individual. Sculpture and painting are combined to examine themes of metamorphosis, enigma and rebirth.
d loves h ot othheer r materials an ceramic S Suusaan n Klaassen Sullivan’s
Sachiko Akiyama’s carved wooden sculptures have a delicate yet bold character. Her creations, composed of natural elements, appear to stride the boundary between the material and spiritual. Akiyama infuses mythological motifs and archetypes into her work to reflect on anthropologic and animalistic themes, inspiring introspection within the viewer’s consciousness.
She said she has been focused on combining carved wood forms with other materials and loves how that expands the works’ expressive and metaphorical possibilities.
Susan Klassen Sullivan’s ceramic sculptures study structural meaning, focusing on the hidden forms and systems that sustain both trees and humans. “Generally what informs my work is that I believe the natural world holds the b S y w ope an e Sp b S p t e
continued on page 25
King Crossword Puzzle
Suzy Parker first got attention in East Elmhurst
by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor
George Lofton Parker was born in Texas on May 27, 1895. He married Elizabeth Mae Kirkpatrick, also from Texas, in 1916. They moved to Brooklyn and he started a publishing and printing business. Three daughters followed in succession, Dorian in 1917, Florian in 1918 and Georgiabell in 1921. Parker’s success enabled the family to purchase a home in Queens at 32-55 84 St. in East Elmhurst.
The family was taken by surprise when they had another girl on Oct. 25 1932. She was named Cecilia Ann Renee Parker.
Called Susie by her father, who disliked her given name, she grew to 5-foot-10. Her sister Dorian, a model, convinced the Ford Modeling Agency to sign her little sister. By 1956, Parker had become the first model to earn $200 an hour, making $100,000 a year. A photographer changed
the spelling of her name to Suzy, and she entered the movies and TV, as well. Parker was in a car driven by her father when they were hit by a train in 1958. He was killed and she broke both her arms. She was married three times and had four children. Stricken with ulcers and later diabetes, she died on May 3, 2003, at age 70. Q
The childhood home of supermodel Suzy Parker at 32-55 84 St. in East Elmhurst, as it looked in the 1930s when she lived there. INSET ABC TELEVISON PHOTO VIA WIKIPEDIA
Queens groups ring in the Year of the Snake
by Michael Gannon editor
Lunar New Year, based on the Chinese Zodiac calendar, will usher in the Year of the Snake on Jan. 29, and numerous groups and organizations throughout Queens are participating in the celebration.
The lunar calendar is based on a 12-year cycle, with a different animal symbolizing each year.
Among those celebrating in the borough, Flushing Town Hall is hosting an exhibit titled “Red Gate: Pauline Benton & Chinese Shadow Theatre in America” through Feb. 25. The exhibit features puppets and artifacts — some more than a century old — and some demonstrations from the Long Island City-based group Chinese Theatre Works. Flushing Town Hall is located at 137-35 Northern Blvd.
The Queens Pubic Library system has more than a dozen scheduled in-person and virtual events and activities at various sites. Those and a list of more than 30 related books for children, teens and adults can be found at tinyurl.com/x82ekard.
S tate Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) and REACH will host a Lunar New Year celebration from 3 to 5 p.m. on Jan. 26 at Flushing High School at 35-01 Union St. More information is available via email to
events@johnliusenate/com, or by calling Liu’s office at (718) 765-6675.
The Shops at Skyview, a multi-level shopping mall in Flushing, will welcome the Year of the Snake with a live mural painting and K-pop party on Wednesday, Jan. 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. on Level 2 next to Spectrum. Students from Francis Lewis High School’s Art and Design program will assist.
There also will be a celebration of Chinese culture reminiscent of the glamorous
era of old Shanghai, on Saturday, Feb. 1. Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required to attend. Guests interested in attending the mural painting and K-Pop party can register at bit.ly/4g0uuvI.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards is inviting people to celebrate from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 30, at Borough Hall. The evening will include cultural performances, food and special honors for members of Queens‘ AAIP community.
Borough Hall is located at 120-55 Queens Blvd. in Kew Gardens. Guests are asked to RSVP at queensbp.nyc.gov/rsvp.
The Flushing Chinese Business Association’s annual Lunar New Year Parade kicks off at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 1, in front of the 109th Precinct at the corner of Union Street and 39th Ave. The ceremony will begin with Lion and Dragon dances. The parade will be led by Mr. Met with the police banner and a marching band.
The celebration at the Queens Center mall, at 90-15 Queens Blvd. in Elmhurst, from 1 to 3 p.m. on Feb. 1, will include the Chinese Freemasons Lion Dancers, plus crafts with the Asian American Arts Alliance.
The Glow Cultural Center will have a parade at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 2 beginning at its offices at 133-29 41 Ave. and going to Flushing Town Hall. There will be a variety show, cultural fair and other festivities. Information and tickets are available at glownyc.org/2025lunarnewyear.
The Bayside Village Business Improvement District will host its Celebration of East Asian Culture from 2 to 5 p.m. on Feb. 9 in the gym at Bayside United Methodist Church with live music and performances at 38-20 Bell Blvd. Information is available at instagram.com/baysidebid. Q
Dual exhibits examine nature in dueling ways
answers to the mysteries of life, the hows and whys. And that if we listen carefully enough, as I try to do, we can know them. Then as an artist I try to present what I’ve encountered during the periods of looking and listening.” Sullivan’s pieces have a quiet power, drawing viewers into a space where the interconnected biological and emotional systems that govern nature become tangible.
Zehnder offers a painterly counterpoint
with abstract landscapes that explore the emotional and metaphysical dimensions of the natural world. He creates works that evoke cycles of growth and decay, and are less about physical places and more about the inner experience of transformation, allowing viewers to reflect on the ephemeral nature of life and the beauty of change.
In the adjacent gallery, Maine-based artist Gail Spaien’s first solo exhibition at Mrs. Gallery, Observation and Imagination, captures the subtle beauty of domiciliary spaces.
In a recent interview with Yale University, Spaien expressed, “There’s a relationship between nature and the interior that is always important to me.” This philosophy is clearly reflected in her work, particularly in her paintings of domestic interiors that seamlessly integrate views of the natural world outside, while maintaining a deliberate visual choreography.
Hilary Schaffner, the curator, who serendipitously crossed paths with Spaien in Miami said, “For Spaien, a painting is a site of connection. It is an opportunity for two worlds to intersect — the viewer’s internal world and the artist’s imagined world. Observed and Imagined hopefully provides
“Only if there are angels in your head” by Sachiko Akiyama, left, and “Moon
by Susan Klassen Sullivan, foreground right, next to some of the mingling crowd at the Jan. 17 Mrs. exhibit opening. On the cover: “Summit” by Robert Zehnder and “Green Chairs with Lighthouse,” by Gail Spaien.
the viewer with a respite from their daily lives and a place to connect to a serene and more contemplative space.”
With “Observation and Imagination” and “Tree At My Window,” Mrs. gallery reaffirms its reputation as a place where unexpected dialogues between art and environ-
ment come to life. Viewers are invited to set aside their habitual perspective and embark on a meditative, imaginative journey of contemplation with an appealing aesthetic. Both exhibits run through March 8. Mrs. is located at 60-40 56 Ave., and the satellite around the corner at 60-19 56 Road. Q
Kuang Yu-Fong, left, co-founder of Chinese Theatre Works, and puppeteer and instructor Harrison Greene demonstrate puppetry techniques at the opening reception of the group’s exhibit at Flushing Town Hall.
PHOTOS BY MICHAEL GANNON
Box Tree”
PHOTOS BY MARLEE WOLLMAN
SCHOOL COUNSELOR NEEDED
GOT AN UNWANTED CAR?? Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast free pick up. Running or not! Call 1-888-251-3135
We buy 8,000 cars a week. Sell your old, busted or junk car with no hoops, haggles or headaches. Sell your car to Peddle. Easy three step process. Instant offer. Free pickup. Fast payment. Call 1-855-403-3374
AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-855-399-2803
BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Call Now! 1-855-399-2076
DIRECTV—All your entertainment. Nothing on your roof! Sign up for Direct and get your first three months of Max, Paramount+, Showtime, Starz, MGM+ and Cinemax included. Choice package $84.99/mo. Some restrictions apply. Call 1-888-534-6918.
Do you know what’s in your water? Leaf Home Water Solutions offers FREE water testing and whole water treatment systems that can be installed in as little as one day. 15% off your entire purchase. Plus 10% senior & military discounts. Restrictions apply. Schedule your FREE test today. Call 1-866-247-5728
Consumer Cellular—the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-919-1682
ATTENTION OXYGEN THERAPY
USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 855-399-2719
Attention: VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! A cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special—Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-855-399-2582
HEARING AIDS!! High-quality rechargeable, powerful Audien hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors. Tiny and NEARLY INVISIBLE! 45-day money back guarantee! 855-819-7060
154-71
BROOKVILLE
INVESTORS LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 10/30/24. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC 180 Maiden Ln, Ste 901, NY, NY 10038. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
69-26 60TH AVENUE LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/31/23. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 59-56 58th Road, Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
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
SAVE ON YOUR TRAVEL PLANS!
Up to 75% More than 500 AIRLINES and 300,000 HOTELS across the world. Let us do the research for you for FREE! Call 877-988-7277
Classified Ad Special. Pay for 3 weeks and the 4th week is FREE! Call 718-205-8000
PEST CONTROL: PROTECT YOUR HOME from pests safely and affordably. Roaches, Bed Bugs, Rodents, Termites, Spiders and other pests. Locally owned and affordable. Call for service or an inspection today! 1-866-448-8311. Have zip code of property ready when calling!
Prepare for Power outages with Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect(TM) stanby generators — the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty—7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-888-605-1496
INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?
Don’t Accept the insurance company’s first offer. Many injured parties are entitled to major cash settlements. Get a free evaluation to see what your case is really worth. 100% Free Evaluation. Call Now: 1-888-454-4717. Be ready with your zip code to connect with the closest provider.
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 in Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-866-782-4069
Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 844-329-9391
9013 LAUNDROMAT LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 01/02/2025. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 90-13 Jamaica Ave., Woodhaven, NY 11421. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
Notice of Formation of A DREAM FOR AMY LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/22/2024. 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: JULIA ST. PIERRE, 3112 34TH ST., APT. 2F, ASTORIA, NY 11106. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Legal Notices
NOTICE OF SALE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that in accordance with applicable provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code as enacted in New York, by virtue of certain Event(s) of Default under that certain Pledge and Security Agreement dated as of April 29, 2022 (the “Pledge Agreement”), executed and delivered by Michael A. Ali (the “Pledgor”), and in accordance with it rights as holder of the security, SSA NE Assets LLC (the “Secured Party”), by virtue of possession of that certain Share Certificate held in accordance with Article 8 of the Uniform Commercial Code of the State of New York (the “Code”) and by virtue of those certain UCC-1 Filing Statement made in favor of Secured Party, all in accordance with Article 9 of the Code, Secured Party will offer for sale, at public auction, (i) all of Pledgor’s right, title, and interest in and to the following: 130-43 129 St Holding Corp. (the “Pledged Entity”), and (ii) certain related rights and property relating thereto (collectively, (i) and (ii) are the “Collateral ”). Secured Party’s understanding is that the principal asset of the Pledged Entity is that certain fee interest in real property commonly known as 130-43 129th Street, Ozone Park, New York 11420 (the “ Property ”). Maltz Auctions (“Maltz”), under the direction of Richard B. Maltz or David A. Constantino (the “Auctioneer”), will conduct a public sale consisting of the Collateral (as set forth in Schedule A below), via virtual bidding, on February 13, 2025 at 12:00pm , in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the approximate amount of $400,000.00, including principal plus interest, and reasonable fees and costs, plus default interest through February 13, 2025, ssubject to open charges and all additional costs, fees and disbursements permitted by law. The Secured Party reserves the right to credit bid. Online bidding will be made available for pre-registered bidders via Maltz's online bidding App available for download in the App Store or on Google play and via desktop bidding at at remotebidding.maltzauctions.com.
Bidder Qualification Deadline: February 12, 2025 by 4:00 pm. Executed Terms & Conditions of Sale along with ten (10%) of Bidders intended bid amount (to be submitted via wire transfer) are required for consideration by any interested party and submitted directly to Maltz. Requests for wiring instructions should be sent to rmaltz@maltzauctions.com.
SCHEDULE A
Pledged Interest
PLEDGOR
Michael A. Ali
ISSUER
130-43 129 St Holding Corp., a New York corporation
INTERESTS PLEDGED
100% membership interest
The UCC1 was filed on November 18, 2024 with the Secretary of State of the State of New York under the Filing No. # 202411180428349.
VALLELY LAW PLLC
Attn: Erick R. Vallely, Esq.
Attorneys for Secured Party 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165 Syosset, New York 11791 (516) 386-3900
Margaret Tietz Nursing & Rehabilitation Center provides equal opportunities to all employees, applicants, and admissions, and does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, creed, sex, including sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, marital status, pregnancy, pregnancy outcomes, and reproductive healthcare and autonomy, citizenship or immigration status, military status, or status as a victim of domestic violence, and source of payment in accordance with applicable federal, state and local law.
C M SQ page 28 Y K
SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS. WILMINGTON SAVING FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF UPLAND MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST A, Plaintiff -against- TERRANCE MANN, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated November 12, 2024 and entered on November 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., in Courtroom # 25, Jamaica, NY on February 7, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. premises situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point on the Easterly side of 158th Street, distant 46 feet Northerly from the corner formed by the intersection of the Easterly side of 158th Street with the Northerly side of 132nd Avenue; being a plot 100.30 feet by 45.84 feet by 87.45 feet by 44 feet. Block: 12273
Lot: 72 Said premises known as 130-21/130-23 158TH STREET A/K/A 13021/13023 158TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11434 Approximate amount of lien $510,796.02 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index Number 721436/2019.
LOIS M. VITTI, ESQ., Referee Kosterich & Skeete, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 707 Westchester Ave., Suite 302, White Plains, NY 10604
Notice of Formation of CILLCEARN LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/03/2024 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: LIAM KEARNEY, 37-05 30TH ST, APT 421, NEW YORK, NY 11101. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
NOTICE OF SALE
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that in accordance with applicable provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code as enacted in New York, by virtue of certain Event(s) of Default under that certain Pledge and Security Agreement dated as of September 30, 2021 (the “Pledge Agreement”), executed and delivered by Jie Li (the “Pledgor”), and in accordance with it rights as holder of the security, SSA NE Assets LLC (the “Secured Party”), by virtue of possession of that certain Share Certificate held in accordance with Article 8 of the Uniform Commercial Code of the State of New York (the “Code”) and by virtue of those certain UCC-1 Filing Statement made in favor of Secured Party, all in accordance with Article 9 of the Code, Secured Party will offer for sale, at public auction, (i) all of Pledgor’s right, title, and interest in and to the following: 2018 LILIN Realty LLC (the “Pledged Entity”), and (ii) certain related rights and property relating thereto (collectively, (i) and (ii) are the “Collateral”). Secured Party’s understanding is that the principal asset of the Pledged Entity is that certain fee interest in real property commonly known as 63-86 Wetherole Street, Rego Park, New York 11374 (the “Property”). Maltz Auctions (“Maltz”), under the direction of Richard B. Maltz or David A. Constantino (the “Auctioneer”), will conduct a public sale consisting of the Collateral (as set forth in Schedule A below), via virtual bidding, on February 13, 2025 at 12:30pm , in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the approximate amount of $$500,000.00, including principal plus interest, and reasonable fees and costs, plus default interest through February 13, 2025, subject to open charges and all additional costs, fees and disbursements permitted by law. The Secured Party reserves the right to credit bid. Online bidding will be made available for pre-registered bidders via Maltz's online bidding App available for download in the App Store or on Google play and via desktop bidding at remotebidding.maltzauctions.com.
Bidder Qualification Deadline: February 12, 2025 by 4:00 pm. Executed Terms & Conditions of Sale along with ten (10%) of Bidders intended bid amount (to be submitted via wire transfer ) are required for consideration by any interested party and submitted directly to Maltz. Requests for wiring instructions should be sent to rmaltz@maltzauctions.com.
SCHEDULE A Pledged Interest
PLEDGOR
Jie Li
ISSUER
2018 LI-LIN Realty LLC., a New York limited liability company INTERESTS PLEDGED 100% membership interest
The UCC1 was filed on December 5, 2024 with the Secretary of State of the State of New York under the Filing No. # 202412050451709.
VALLELY LAW PLLC
Attn: Erick R. Vallely, Esq. Attorneys for Secured Party 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165 Syosset, New York 11791 (516) 386-3900
Notice of Formation of MGN 137-35 91ST AVE, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 01/13/25. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 1074 Grand St., Brooklyn, NY 11211. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
BERNARD STOEGER LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/18/2024. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 50-28 65th Place, Woodside, NY 11377. Reg Agent: Shahriar Rahman, 50-28 65th Place, Woodside, NY 11377. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, GITSIT SOLUTIONS, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. 815 BAY 25 CORP., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on March 7, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on February 21, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 815 a/k/a 8-15 Bay 25th Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 15733 and Lot 1. Approximate amount of judgment is $669,416.04 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #719169/2022. Arthur N. Terranova, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 244281-3
Notice of Formation of RANDY’S HOME REMODEL LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/05/2024. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RANDY TEJADA, 10530 66TH AVENUE, APT 1F, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
TAKETWO SERVICES, LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/13/2024. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 2110 33rd Street 8B, Astoria, NY 11106. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.
EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212-941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718-722-3131. The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.
Howard Beach/Lindenwood, studio, duplex, close to all. Call owner for details. Avail immed. TEXT ONLY 917-855-7390
Howard Beach. Room for Rent. All Utilities Included. Close to transportation and shopping. $250 per week plus security deposit. Please call: 718-772-6127
For Sale Rooms For Rent
Howard Beach, elegant brick custom Colonial, 4 BR, 4.5 baths, master BR w/en-suite& 2 BRs w/full baths. Custom KIT, LR, FDR, den. Full finished bsmnt, sep ent, paved yard with IGP w/jacuzzi. Price Improvement Asking $1,390,000. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136
Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Center Hall Colonial. 50x100 lot. 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 $1,399,000. Connexion Real Estate 718-845-1136
Howard Beach/Rockwood Park. Sat 1/25, 12pm-2pm, 160-31 90 St. Totally updated, mint cond, HiRanch, 35x100 lot. 4 BR, 2 full baths. Reduced $939K. Connexion Real Estate 718-845-1136
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AR1 -againstADRIAN RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on June 26, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007AR1 is the Plaintiff and ADRIAN RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the QUEENS COUNTY SUPREME COURT, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD, COURTROOM 25, JAMAICA, NY 11435, on January 31, 2025 at 10:00AM, premises known as 220-25 134TH ROAD, SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 11413; and the following tax map identification: 13098-2.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE FOURTH WARD, BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 715762/2022. Michele Augusta Baptiste, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC, 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. 20-066307
Notice of Formation of New Dawn Mental Health Counseling PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State (SSNY) on 1/3/25. Office location: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail/email process to: 5027 103rd St, Corona, NY 11368, fcastillo@mhpwq.org. Purpose: practice the profession of mental health counseling.
REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDA MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-AR9, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AR9, Plaintiff - against - MOHIBUL ISLAM, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 23, 2022. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY, on the second floor in Courtroom 25 on the 7th day of February, 2025 at 10:00 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Queens, City and State of New York. Premises known as 8709 150th Street, Jamaica, (City of New York) NY 11432. (BL#: 9707-90) Approximate amount of lien $886,832.90 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 716393/2021 FKA 29577/2009. Helen Eichler, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd., Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832
Dated: November 27, 2024
During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.
Notice of Formation of PHAROAH’S FEAST LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/05/2024 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: OSAMA ABDELAZIZ, 24-47 85TH STREET, EAST ELMHURST, NY 11370. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC, Plaintiff, vs. MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., ACTING SOLELY AS A NOMINEE FOR COUNTRYWIDE BANK, FSB, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 16, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on February 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 10607 177th Street, Jamaica, NY 11433. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 10334 and Lot 6. Approximate amount of judgment is $1,274,777.57 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #701502/2021. Lawrence M. Litwack, Esq., Referee Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff
NOTICE OF SALE
SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. MARJORIE MORGAN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 19, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on February 14, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 214-32 113th Avenue, Queens Village, NY 11429. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 11136 and Lot 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $591,833.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #705287/2015. Cash will not be accepted. Gregory M. LaSpina, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff
NYU Langone Health is recruiting participants for an exciting new study exploring why and how some people with dementia experience a return of mental clarity as they approach the end of life.
These episodes are known as paradoxical lucidity. If you have a loved one suffering from advanced dementia, they may eligible for this study.
If interested, please contact the Parnia Lab research team at 917-227-0932 or pl@nyulangone.org.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS, INDEX NO. 724732/2023, Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property, SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS, Mortgaged Premises: 175-13 145TH AVE, JAMAICA, NY 11434, Block 13287, Lot 31. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, vs. LULAR HAYES, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; CITIBANK, N.A.; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Defendants. To the above named Defendants, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant(s), the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until (60) days after service of the Summons; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT, THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to quiet title, Lular Hayes’ interest in the Property and deem Plaintiff the sole and true owner of real property located at 175 -13 145TH AVE, JAMAICA, NEW YORK 11434 with a tax map designation of Block 13287, Lot 31. Dated: December 18th, 2024. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, Jadwiga Szajner, Esq., 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, NY 11590
516-280-7675
Holiday photo contest!
Baby Maks made a mess! While her siblings, Przemek and Malina, were careful enough to use straws, Maks got her eggnog all over herself, and her big brother. But mom Jean Marie Krowicki was there to capture the moment, and with it victory in the Queens Chronicle’s 17th Annual Holiday Photo Contest! With three little ones on her hands, the Forest Hills mother will have more than enough places to spend the
$50 gift card, good anywhere, that is her prize. You too can be a prize winner! Next up will be our 17th Annual Summer in the Borough Photo Contest. Expect to see that one announced right around the time when school lets out for the year. As always, it will be a challenge for us to pick a winner, as it was this time! And you can find more photos than we were able to fit here at qchron.com. — Peter C. Mastrosimone
Christmas carolers galore! A group on Broadway in Astoria, captured by Barry Ward, who grew up there and now is in Long Island City; and one member of another group in Forest Hills Gardens, with two appreciative listeners, by Jim Kakoullis of Rego Park. More singers are seen in shadow.
Rosemarie Italico shows her holiday spirit in front of her Aunt Anna’s house, as captured by her cousin Thomas Macari of Ozone Park. Top right, Jessica Watz of Glendale had a wonderful, awesome idea: Make a Grinch cake and photograph it! Donna Van Blarcom of Astoria went reindeer hunting with her camera and found a nice specimen at Boulevard Gardens in Woodside.
“Snowing Outside Glowing Inside” by Jennifer Merdjan of Forest Hills, at the train station there.
Above are Santa and some happy kids at the River Fund, by Mike McGevna of South Richmond Hill; indoor decorations by Adrian Pope of Bayside; outdoor decorations by Betty Copeland of Woodhaven; and brothers Joey and Angelo, by their mother, Kristen Aleo of Ozone Park. At right, clockwise from top left are homemade decorations in a Kew Gardens building
lobby, made by Paula and Osvaldo De Los Santos Jr. and captured by their daughter Melissa; Christmas Krinkles in Rego Park, by Ivy Hammer; decorations in Astoria, by Richard Melnick; decorations in Forest Hills, by Laura Taormina, 10; and Hannah Huang with her new Lego camera, by her mother, June. See great backstories on De Los Santos and Hannah at qchron.com.
