Queens Chronicle South Edition 01-26-23

SOUTH QUEENS EDITION

Serving Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, City Line and JFK Airport

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

NEW YEAR, SAME GOALS

Quality of life top of mind in Howard and Hamilton Beach

PAGE 4

Following yet another destructive storm that ravaged southern Queens, flooding mitigation and infrastructure remain a priority for many in the area, including the civic associations. Phyllis Inserillo, president of the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic Association, and Roger Gend ron, president of the New Hamilton Beach Civic Association, discuss their civics’ goals for the new year.

DIWALI DAY

Push for school holiday back on in Albany PAGE 4

LIGHTS IN THE DARKNESS

Artist ties Dickinson’s poems to night-blooming flowers at Mrs.

SEE qboro, PAGE 23

Region still struggling for blood donations

School, business collection drives still below

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Recent pitches by the New York Blood Center asking people to donate blood have taken a humorous approach.

It hurts less than dropping your cell phone, or running into your ex with a piece of spinach in your teeth, they say.

But look on the center’s donor link on nybc.org and one finds the phrases “blood shortage,” “blood emergency” and “critical need.”

The NYBC serves the city, Long Island, New Jersey and the Hudson Valley; and also works with other states. Andrea Cefarelli, senior vice president of corporate communications and public affairs for the group, said donations still have not rebounded to precovid levels.

“Prepandemic, we would have usually two blood emergencies a year — most often the Thanksgiving to New Year periods and the p eriod between Fourth of July and Labor Day,” Cefarelli told the Chronicle. “We had five blood emergencies in 2022.”

An emergency, she said, is when the overall inventory is low and certain blood types fall to a one- or two-day supply. The pandemic, she said, devastated the foundation on which the NYBC collects blood, plasma, platelets and other blood products.

“Prepandemic we went to high schools, colleges, businesses, and 75 percent of the local blood supply came from organizations hosting blood drives,” she said. “It was very convenient to walk down the hall, to get out of chemistry class to give blood.

“Then we shut down and we had no blood drives. And blood drives and organizations sponsoring them have been slow to rebound.”

She said first-time donors and young donors are particularly down, as they have not yet regained the 500 high schools and all

the colleges that used to be regulars.

Cefarelli said they need donors of all blood types, as hospitals need it for routine treatments and planned surgeries. Then there are the unplanned.

“We had a firefighter several years ago who had to jump from a window in the Bronx,” she said. “He used 76 units of bloo d and blood products. Your body holds about eight to 10.”

William Lynch, executive vice president and COO of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, said anyone could need blood for even routine reasons.

“It’s not just our trauma facility,” Lynch said. “People understand motor vehicle accidents ... gunshot wounds, people who have train accidents.” But he said in the third quarter of 2022, the hospital transfused between 500 and 600 patients.

They included cancer patients dealing with chemotherapy, routine surgical patients an d newborn babies or new mothers who developed complications. In a shortage, he said, staff have to manage carefully.

“When there’s a crisis, a shortage, we worry, because unfortunately, we haven’t found a substitute for human blood.”

Cefarelli said information on individual donations and sponsoring blood drives can be found on the group’s website. Q

Mr. and Mrs. Met were all smiles with donors at a blood drive at Citi Field on Jan. 11. But the blood shortage that has been gripping the New York City region for more than a year — and the challenge of getting out of it — is serious business, according to the New York Blood Center and officials at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.

Educating our students to be independent thinkers and lifelong learners.

BROTHER’S COCKTAIL SANDWICHES TRADITIONAL SANDWICHES

An Assortment of Sandwiches Consisting of Boar’s Head Deluxe Ham, Home Made Roast Beef, Boar’s Head Oven Gold Turkey Breast And Hormel DiLusso Genoa Salami.

Some Sandwiches Will Be Topped With Cheese.

Bread $10.99 Per Person Rolls $11.99 Per Person

ITALIAN SANDWICHES

An Assortment of Sandwiches Consisting of Hormel Dilusso Genoa Salami, Citterio Mortadella, Danielle Prosciutto, Citterio Soppressata and Alps Cappicola.

Some Sandwiches Will Be Topped With Cheese.

Bread $13.99 Per Person Rolls $14.99 Per Person

MEATLESS SANDWICHES

An Assortment of Sandwiches Consisting of Tuna Salad, Fresh Mozzarella & Tomato With Basil and Egg Salad

Bread $10.99 Per Person Rolls $11.99 Per Person

WRAP PLATTER

A Variety Of Cold Cuts And Cheeses On

An Assortment White and Whole Wheat Wraps, Cut In Half.

Your Choice of 4 Varieties

Accommodates 8 To 10 Persons............................$109.99

Accompanied With Pickles, Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad and Cole Slaw .................................. $149.99

Your Choice of 7 Varieties

Accommodates 15 To 20 Persons ........................$209.99

Accompanied With Pickles, Potato Salad, Macaroni Salad and Coleslaw ................................... $274.99

VEGETABLE PLATTER

Broccoli Florets, Sweet Peppers, Peeled Carrots, Cucumbers. Cauliflower Florets, Celery and

3-Foot

3-Foot

4-Foot

5-Foot

6-Foot

Flooding and sanitation top of mind but also elevating the voices there Howard and Ham. Beach civic goals

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

If there is any cause that southern Queens can rally around, it is flooding.

That is case in Howard and Hamilton Beach, where chronic flooding and drainage issues persist, most recently with winter storm Elliott that hit right before Christmas and most notably with Superstorm Sandy, of which many are still dealing with the repercussions.

“It is the biggest issue and it affects everybody equally,” said Roger Gendron, president of the New Hamilton Beach Civic Association.

Gendron regularly posts flooding advisories on numerous Facebook groups but more needs to be done. In the coming year, he plans to push the city for another flood sensor near 102nd Street, like the ones that exist on Russell Street and Davenport Court.

“That’s a main intersection for us,” he said. “If that floods, sometimes we can’t get out.”

Drainage is an issue throughout the area. The morning of the December storm, the tide started rising on Gendron’s block at 5:15 a.m. and did not recede until 5 p.m.

“We need [the city Department of Environmental Protection] to come down and clear out every catch basin and every drain that we have and do it at a more frequent rate than what they’re doing now,” Gendron said.

“Not every block has them, but for the drains like on my block and 164th Avenue,

have them make sure they are working with the block and not against the block,” he added.

A long-term plan to address the flooding is in the hands of the feds. Gendron plans to continue advocating for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ proposed floodgates, which Phyllis Inserillo, co-president of the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic Association echoed.

“We’re looking to push the USACE to get this project going faster with the floodgates,” she said. “Everyone was affected by Sandy, all the way into Lindenwood, so that’s something we all need to get on the ball about.”

Safety and sanitation issues are top of mind

for the civics as well. The Chronicle reported last week about a push for the city Department of Transportation to implement daylighting measures on the blocks off of 104th Street so cars do not park all the way to the corner and impede emergency vehicles.

Dumping persists, particularly off of 102nd Street, Gendron said, and especially in the Ramblersville area, where residents of Church Street and Broadway do not get curbside pickup. There are dumpsters near 102nd for them to empty their trash but the site becomes one of chronic dumping. A Google Maps search over the years shows overflowing trash and even

discarded jet skis and appliances. Gendron feels it would be a perfect site to install cameras to deter the act.

Other priorities include installing lights on the boardwalk that takes riders from the Howard Beach subway stop into Hamilton Beach. The lights on the 163rd Avenue pedestrian bridge, which have been out since Elliott, also need to be fixed and were not by press time.

Inserillo said that more coordination must be done between the DOT and city Department of Sanitation to clean up areas like the Belt Parkway, especially near the 9/ll memorial site, which the civic continues to maintain and plans to enhance in the coming year.

For the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic, Inserillo has ideological goals in mind. She and co-president Barbara McNamara penned a letter for residents to send to their state representatives on issues like bail, policing and the Raise the Age law. They plan to change the format of their monthly meetings to reflect these goals as well.

“We’re really trying to activate everybody and have our voices be one big voice to those that can make the changes,” she said.

For both civics, the annual events that are focused around kids remain a priority.

“We want to make sure the kids have that nostalgia when they’re older and they look back and say, ‘you know, we had a really good time growing up in Howard Beach.’” Q

Rally draws support of Rajkumar’s bill to get the school holiday in NYC Diwali fight picks back up in Albany

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

The push to make Diwali a school holiday in New York City public schools continued in Albany on Tuesday as lawmakers and residents rallied in support of the proposed legislation.

“We have never seen such enthusiasm for this cause,” said Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven), the sponsor of the bill, on the Million Dollar Staircase of the New York State Capitol Building.

“We stand here today as proud Americans and we are here to say that Diwali is an American holiday,” she continued.

Dubbed Diwali Lobby Day with a hashtag on Twitter, the gathering represented the latest push to make the Festival of Lights a school holiday, an effort which has failed in the past.

“The time has come to recognize over 200,000 Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist New Yorkers,” Rajkumar has said. “To these communities, New York State says ‘We see you.’ After two decades of advocacy by the South Asian diaspora in New York City, our time has come.”

Rajkumar first introduced her legislation in 2021. State Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) had introduced a similar bill in 2015.

Last October, Mayor Adams and Schools Chancellor David Banks announced their support of the state legislation.

State law requires 180 days of instruction and there was no room for an additional day off, so the move took collaboration between school, city and state officials. Rajkumar worked with the mayor to propose that Anniversary Day, also known as Brooklyn-Queens Day, be replaced with Diwali.

The bill must first be passed this session in order to be enacted.

In the Assembly, Rajkumar has many co-sponsors, including Queens Assemblymembers Steven Raga (D-Woodside), Ed Braunstein (D-Bayside), Catalina Cruz (D-Corona), Khaleel Anderson (D-Far Rockaway) and Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), who all joined her on Tuesday.

“For too long, our communities, the South Asian communities, have been recognized in symbolism and not in substance,” said Mamdani at the event.

He continued, “What has not been able to be done by this mayor, or the last mayor and by New York City, we will finish it here in Albany.”

Raga tweeted after the event, “It is time that New York recognizes Diwali as a school holiday and that we stand with our South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities.”

The Senate version of the bill was introduced by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) and has state Sen. John Liu (D-Flushing) as its sole co-sponsor. Q

Quality-of-life issues, like dumping, are a priority for the civics in Hamilton and Howard Beach but so is community building, through events like the planting of the 9/11 Survivor Tree by the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic, right. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE, LEFT, AND PHOTO BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF / FILE

A rally in support of making Diwali a New York City school holiday took place in Albany on Tuesday. PHOTO COURTESY NYS

How To Get Rid of Knee Pain Once and For All... Without Drugs, Shots or Surgery

Living with knee pain can feel like a crippling experience.

Let’s face it, your knees aren’t as young as you used to be, and playing with the kids or grandkids isn’t any easier either. Maybe your knee pain keeps you from walking short distances or playing golf like you used to.

Nothing’s worse than feeling great mentally, but physically feeling held back from life because your knees hurt and the pain just won’t go away!

My name is Dr. Robert F. Gucciardo, D.C., owner of Gucciardo Specific Chiropractic and Natural Health Center. Since we opened seventeen years ago, I’ve seen hundreds of people with knee problems leave the office pain free.

If you’re suffering from these conditions, a new breakthrough in medical technology may completely eliminate your pain and help restore normal function to your knees.

Do You Have Any of the Following Conditions?

• Arthritis

• Knee pain

• Cartilage damage

• ‘Bone-on-bone’

• Tendonitis

• Bursitis

• Crunching and popping sounds

Finally, You Have an Option Other Than Drugs or Surgery

New research in a treatment called Class IV Laser Therapy is having a profound effect on patients suffering with knee pain. Unlike the cutting type of laser seen in movies and used in medical procedures, the Class IV therapeutic laser penetrates the surface of the skin with no heating effect or damage.

Laser Therapy has been tested for 40 years, had over 2000 papers published on it, and has been shown to aid in damaged tissue regeneration, decrease inflammation, relieve pain and boost the immune system. This means that there is a good chance cold laser therapy could be your knee pain solution, allowing you to live a more active lifestyle.

Professional athletes like The New York Yankees and team members of the New England Patriots rely upon cold laser therapy to treat their sports-related injuries. These guys use the cold laser for one reason only…

It Promotes Rapid Healing of the Injured Tissues.

Before the FDA would clear the Class IV laser for human use, they wanted to see proof that it worked. This lead to two landmark studies.

The fi rst study showed that patients who had laser therapy had 53 percent better improvement than those who had a placebo. The second study showed patients who used the laser therapy had less pain and more range of motion days after treatment. If the Class IV Laser can help these patients, it can help you too.

Could This Noninvasive, Natural Treatment Be the Answer to Your Knee Pain?

For 10 days only, I’m running a very special offer where you can fi nd out if you are a candidate for cold laser therapy.

What does this offer include? Everything I normally do in my “Knee Pain Evaluation.” Just call before February 5th, 2023 and here’s what you’ll get…

• An in-depth consultation about your problem where I will listen … really listen … to the details of your case.

• A complete neuromuscular examination.

• A full set of specialized X-rays to determine if arthritis is contributing to your pain (if necessary). (If you have films please bring them for evaluation).

• A thorough analysis of your exam and X-ray fi ndings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free.

• You’ll see everything fi rsthand and fi nd out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution, as it has been for so many other patients.

Until February 5th, you can get everything I’ve listed here for only $37. The normal price for this type of evaluation including X-rays is $250, so you’re saving a considerable amount by taking me up on this offer.

Remember what it was like before you had knee problems – when you were pain free and could enjoy everything life had to offer. It can be that way again. Don’t neglect your problem any longer – don’t wait until it’s too late.

A new treatment is helping patients with knee pain live a happier, more active lifestyle.

Here’s what to do now:

Due to the expected demand for this special offer, I urge you to call our office at once. The phone number is 718-845-2323.

Call today and we can get started with your consultation, exam and X-rays (if necessary) as soon as there’s an opening in the schedule. Our office is called Gucciardo Specific Chiropractic and Natural Health Center and you can fi nd us at 162-07 91st Street in Howard Beach. Tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Knee Evaluation before February 5th.

Sincerely,

Dr. Robert F. Gucciardo, D.C.

P.S. Now you might be wondering…

“Is this safe? Are there any side effects or dangers to this?”

The FDA cleared the fi rst Class IV Laser in 2002. This was after their study found 76 percent improvement in patients with severe pain. Their only warning – don’t shine it in your eyes.

Of course at our office, the laser is never anywhere near your eyes and we’ll give you a comfortable pair of goggles for safety.

Don’t wait and let your knee problems get worse, disabling you for life. Take me up on my offer and call today (718) 845-2323. For more information go to www.drgucciardo.com and click on the laser therapy tab.

Federal and Medicare restrictions apply. Dr. Robert F. Gucciardo Upper, Cervical Chiropractor, Master Clinician in Nutrition Response Testing 162-07 91st Street, Howard Beach, NY 11414 • (718) 845-2323

Now, in Howard Beach, NY, one doctor is helping local residents with knee pain live more active, pain-free lives.

MTA removes loads of illegally dumped debris; resident wants more done Ten-hour effort tackles Rich. Hill yard

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

A daylong effort to address the conditions under the Richmond Hill train tracks near Babbage Street commenced over the weekend, much to the surprise of Kevin O’Leary, a Kew Gardens resident and member of Community Board 9, who has long called for attention to the site and happened upon on the scene on his way to a diner.

On Saturday, MTA police and its Right of Way Task Force responded to a complaint of

illegal dumping under the trestle of the former LIRR station, according to an MTA spokesperson. LIRR personnel were on-site with equipment including two dump trucks to remove the debris, soil, sand and concrete that had been illegally dumped under the trestle.

One worker told O’Leary that they found eight buckets of human feces at the site. In a visit to the site after the cleanup, the Chronicle observed what appeared to be some left behind.

“This was not only a garbage issue, this was a health problem for the area,” said O’Leary.

“And it’s right across from the library!”

Approximately 12 loads totaling 170 cubic yards were removed from under the trestle and the “high security gate” was secured, according to the MTA.

During a walkthrough with the Chronicle back in April, O’Leary called attention to the fact that people were entering through that gate and setting up encampments.

Back then, an MTA spokesperson told the Chronicle, “We are actively working with internal and external stakeholders including

local elected officials, community leaders, and law enforcement, and we are committed to find a solution for this area.”

On Saturday, the agency closed the one-way street to traffic for 10 hours and provided access and egress for the dump trucks. The 102nd Precinct helped facilitate the efforts.

But to O’Leary, the work is not done.

“It’s only half done in my book,” he said. A former waiting area awning atop the elevated tracks is crumbling and he fears it will fall and hurt someone. Q

Programs welcomed but do they do enough in curbing violence? Law would require more gun buybacks

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

A new bill introduced in the City Council last week would require the NYPD to host regular gun buyback programs throughout the five boroughs and provide the rewards.

The legislation was introduced by Councilmembers Carlina Rivera (D-Manhattan) and Rafael Salamanca Jr. (D-Bronx) last Thursday in the Committee on Public Safety.

But two of the panel’s Queens members say the programs are not enough, and one crime expert called them “political theater.”

The voluntary gun buyback events have become more popular in Queens and rewards for the firearms, which can be surrendered without providing identification and without penalties, range from $200 to a free iPad.

The program would take place in a different borough at least once each month, on a rotating basis, according to the legislation.

The NYPD already operates a Cash for Guns program as part of an ongoing effort to encourage people to turn them in anonymously.

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz’s office has held eight of the events in her time in the office, collecting over 400 firearms combined. A spokesperson from her office said it is reviewing the newly introduced bill.

“DA Katz appreciates that every gun surrendered during a gun buyback program may rep-

question their efficacy.

resent a tragedy averted and a potential life saved,” said the spokesperson.

A November event in Far Rockaway turned up 32 guns and in September, 62 were collected in Ozone Park.

But many question if the bill does enough to combat gun violence in the streets.

“I am in favor of the NYPD’s gun buyback program, but I also don’t think that the pro-

gram goes far enough,” Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) said.

“Many of the guns that are turned in are old and inoperable, and wouldn’t be the kinds of weapons that we’d see being used in a crime,” she continued. “That said, getting any guns off of our streets is a good thing, and the program has had its successes in the past.”

Ariola sits on the Committee on Public

Safety along with Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth).

“Gun buyback programs are a noble endeavor, but our city is facing an illegal gun crisis,” Holden said in a statement.

“The best way to reduce illegal guns is for law enforcement to arrest those who use them and for our District Attorneys to prosecute and imprison them.”

Joseph Giacalone, an adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a retired NYPD sergeant who formerly lived in Queens, said it is all “political theater” and that studies have shown that gun buyback programs do not reduce gun crime.

“I wish the City Council would, instead of trying to do these gimmicks, do things that are actually beneficial, like getting Albany to change its stance on allowing people to walk free who are in possession of an illegal firearm,” Giacalone said.

“You’re not reaching the people that you need to reach and those are the young kids and the gangbangers and the drug dealers who have these guns,” he continued. “They’re not giving them up.”

Giacalone said the participants are older folks giving up their guns anyway and looking to cash in, not gangbangers settling for an iPad. “I mean come on, we’re just kidding ourselves with this stuff.” Q

Gun buyback events, like this one held in Ozone Park in September, may be required monthly per newly introduced legislation, but many

PHOTO COURTESY QUEENS DA / FILE

Before and after: On a walkthrough of the area underneath the former LIRR Richmond Hill train tracks in April, Kevin O’Leary pointed out the neglected dire conditions to the Chronicle. Over the weekend, he happened upon a massive cleanup effort there. The MTA said it removed loads of illegal dumpings but O’Leary says mo re needs to be done there. PHOTOS BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF

(Opposite

Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

City proposes new funding weights

Proposed changes to give

$90M

for homeless and special needs

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

Following the culmination of a Fair Student Funding formula working group’s effort, Mayor Adams and Schools Chancellor David Banks have selected two of the panel’s recommendations to propose.

They are recommending a weight be added to the funding formula for students in temporary housing and another for schools that have a higher concentration of students with needs including those with disabilities, English language learners and those living in poverty.

About $45 million would go to schools to help the students who are homeless and in turn help the influx of migrant students, and another $45 million would go to schools with high concentrations of students in need. The latter would touch approximately 300 schools across the city.

Fair Student Funding is the main source of money for most schools and is based on the number of students at a school and their specific needs.

The proposals must be approved by the Panel for Educational Policy.

The working group came into fruition last year after the PEP, which was previously a “rubber stamp” for the mayoral administration, rejected the funding model. A month later, the members approved it, with Banks, desperate not to hold up school budgets, promising that a group would review the formula.

“These changes, made as a direct result of the thoughtful work of the Fair Student Funding Working Group, are representative of New York City public schools’ commitment to working directly with our communities and putting into place genuine change to support our schools and our kids,” said Banks in a prepared statement.

“This was complicated work they took on, and I am so appreciative of the work of the Fair Student Funding Working Group and co-

chairs Dia Bryant and Jasmine Gripper and am thrilled to be moving these recommendations forward.”

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) applauded the recommendations taken by the administration and urged the DOE to continue convening the working group.

“The Fair Student Funding (FSF) formula has long been in need of reform to better support our students and school communities,” Adams said.

She continued, “We are also encouraged by changes to the budget appeal process and commitments to improve transparency around how DOE issues school budgets, so the public and government oversight entities are not left without basic information.”

The announcement included commitments to a budget appeals process more responsive to special education programming needs and increasing budget transparency. Q

MS 202 principal returns

MS 202 Principal William Fitzgerald returned to work in Ozone Park this week after an unknown “personnel matter.”

He was put on leave back in November, the Chronicle reported, and an investigation was pending.

“As a result of a personnel matter Principal William Fitzgerald has been reassigned pending investigation,” a Department of Education spokesperson said at the time following an anonymous tip that the principal was gone without explanation.

“Our district superintendent is work-

ing to support M.S. 202 to ensure that students remain successful,” the spokesperson said.

A letter from District 27 Superintendent David Norment to the school community last Friday stated that as of Monday, Fitzgerald would “return to duty” as principal.

The letter thanked Assistant Principal Kelly Barton for her service during Fitzgerald’s absence.

He has been principal at the school since 2008, according to reports. Q

— Deirdre Bardolf

Mayor Adams, left, and Chancellor David Banks at an unrelated schools press conference. PHOTO COURTESY NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE / FILE

Repair King Manor now

King Manor in Jamaica was home to a framer and signer of the Constitution, Rufus King. He farmed the land, owning 150 acres at the time, served as a senator and ambassador to Great Britain, and passionately fought to end slavery. His son, John Alsop King, was an assemblyman, congressman and governor of New York, who also actively opposed slavery.

Now their memories are being insulted, as is the very history of Queens and Jamaica in particular. As the Chronicle revealed in an exclusive report last week, King Manor is being allowed to fall apart. Walls are cracking. The historic mantelpiece is deteriorating. Black growths that are either mold or “mold-like” are appearing. Mildew is forming on bare wood on the exterior — the house is supposed to be painted every five to eight years but it’s been more than 20 since it last was done, according to King Manor Museum Executive Director Kelsey Brow. Windowsills are failing, letting moisture in.

It’s true that the roof was repaired in 2018 at a cost of $1.8 million, and the heating, ventilation

and air conditioning system was repaired in 2021 for $718,000. But clearly those investments were not nearly enough. The roof repair, for one thing, did not include a replastering of the ceilings below — leaving Brow and her colleagues to do the work.

This is absurd. The Chronicle reports on multimillion-dollar upgrades for city parks and playgrounds on a pretty regular basis. Those are worthwhile things. So is maintaining a park-based historic house that should be a gem and major draw.

In fact, the house used to host weddings, baby showers, book launches, business meetings and so forth, but between its deteriorating condition and the loss of its Wi-Fi service, those events are not happening anymore. That means the loss of revenue that could come in handy. The Wi-Fi has been out for more than two years. How could the city not bother to get it fixed in all that time?

We call on the city to get its act together and fix King Manor. We call on our elected officials, who rally at the drop of a hat, to demand it. It’s time to respect our history and invest in our future.

Losing a Walgreens hurts

Capitalism is dynamic, often replacing one thing with something better as millions of people make individual decisions on what is valuable. Refrigerators replace iceboxes. Honda Civics replace Ford Fairmonts. Facebook replaces Myspace.

Many of the changes are clearly improvements, though of course not all are. Either way, they can be difficult to live through for those who relied on the older thing. And sometimes what’s coming next is not clear.

So it is in Forest Hills and Flushing, where residents just learned two Walgreens are closing — the ones on 108th Street at 63rd Drive and Kissena Boulevard near Elder Avenue. Shuttered stores are not innovations.

No big deal, many would say — there are lots of pharmacies. You won’t have to go far to find another. But there are not as many as there once were. And “not far” is a relative term. Flushing City Councilwoman Sandra Ung noted that for some older adults and others, going to Main Street and Roosevelt Avenue for their prescriptions, where the Kissena ones will be transferred, “is not an easy trip.” In Forest Hills, customers are being directed 15 blocks away to a Queens Boulevard location.

Were we oversaturated with drugstores? Are online prescription fillers knocking them out like Amazon did bookstores? Is the stunning level of organized shoplifting taking its toll? We can’t say. We can only hope capitalism provides good successors to these necessary stores. Quickly.

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

No parkland casino

Dear Editor:

Re “Cohen fields ideas for Mets’ parking lot,” Jan. 12:

When Donald Manes was Queens borough president he wanted to have built in Flushing Meadows Corona Park an automobile-racing track around the lake in the park. I and others opposed such an attempt and we even had The New York Times oppose it. It never took place.

Scared on the train I love

Dear Editor:

I had my first experience being in close proximity to a mentally unstable person on the M train last week when I was commuting home from LaGuardia Community College. The man standing next to me started screaming and using hand gestures. I thought he was going to hurt me. This incident happened in broad daylight at the start of rush hour, 4 p.m.

subway. My family and I used to take it all the time all hours of the day and night before Covid.

I also want to know where the cops on the subway are. I took a photo last week of two cops on their cell phones at West 4th Street. They weren’t there when this incident happened.

Carly Stubbs Maspeth

Bardolf Editor

Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

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Jim Berkoff, Beverly Espinoza

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Website: www.qchron.com

Parks are an important facility for the residents of our city and must not be used for anything other than parkland. The Mets’ stadium was given the legislative right to use parkland since the Mets needed a parking area for stadium users.

Comes now Steve Cohen, the Mets’ owner, who wishes to change the stadium parking lot, he hopes, it seems, into a gambling casino. Since the area is parkland he cannot do so without state legislative permission. Any state lawmaker who would allow Cohen to use parkland for a gambling casino has no right to hold legislative office. If Cohen wants to give up the use of parkland for stadium purposes, the only change that should be allowed is to return it as part of the adjacent park. If Cohen wants a gambling casino, he should wake up and recognize he cannot do so with parkland.

Benjamin M. Haber Flushing

I said to my mother, “Why do I have to be afraid to take the subway in NYC like other people are?” She knows a lot of people who stopped taking the subway. If they can afford it they take the express bus into Manhattan or they take three or four buses.

I love the train and don’t want to change my habits to suit people who need help and could hurt someone. The M train used to be the best

One small step for subways

Dear Editor:

Re “Hochul: Light rail for Interborough Express,” Jan. 19, multiple editions: Any major projects involving improve d Brooklyn-Queens interborough mass transit are years away. In the meantime, there is one small step the MTA can take.

LETTERS

TO

I propose the G train terminus in Long Island City be extended one stop from Court Square to Queens Plaza weekdays from approximately 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. and weekends and holidays from approximately 6 a.m. to 2 a.m. This would enable commuters to travel between G line stations and local Queens Boulevard line stations between Queens Plaza and 71st-Continental Aveune with only one transfer at Queens Plaza. The existing service requires two transfers for this trip at these times, one at Court Square and another at Queens Plaza or Roosevelt Aveune.

This modification doesn’t require much in the way of additional resources.

It wouldn’t significantly affect operations. The G train southern terminus is currently Church Aveune in Brooklyn on a line it shares with the F train. If the MTA can handle that, why not Queens Plaza?

This extension is not that essential from roughly 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. because the same skeleton E local service exists at Court Square and Queens Plaza. It’s also less necessary weekdays 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. when both M locals and E expresses serve Court House Square.

Steven Kalka East Rockaway, LI

Of Marx and Socialism

Dear Editor:

What David Soukup calls “the socialist principles that there will be no winners and losers and every kid gets the exact same trophy and each gets the exact same size slice of pizza and drink” (“Socialists damage Dems,” Letters, Jan. 19) are nowhere to be found in the writings of Karl Marx, who Loyola University Chicago’s David Schweickart notes “was not an egalitarian” (and particularly not in the sense of a child complaining that a sibling “got a bigger piece of pie.”)

As Schweickart explains, “That famous slogan, ‘From each according to his ability, to each according to his need’ is strikingly inegalitarian. People have different abilities. People have different needs.”

Joel Schlosberg Bayside

That was no slur

Dear Editor:

In last week’s edition there was an article about a man who was booted off Community Board 5 because he stated that the pandemic originated in Wuhan and the borough president felt that this was hate speech (“CB 5 member booted, accused of Asian slur,” multiple editions). Also Congresswoman Grace Meng felt that saying the virus came from China contributes to violence against Asians.

To say a virus originated from a certain region has always been done; just look in the medical records. We had the Spanish flu, German measles, West Nile virus and many others. To say Wuhan virus is not hate speech; it’s just

THE EDITOR

a way of identifying something in our brains. Only people not in their right minds would blame Asians for a virus — maybe the Chinese Communist government but not Asians living in the USA. There has been an uptick in violence but it’s not just against Asians. We all see the news — it’s the mentally ill who are left to roam the streets off their meds and the criminals who are allowed to commit the same crimes over and over. It’s also because of those who feel that jail is not the right punishment and that we must keep the jail population down anyway, so Rikers Island can be closed.

Since the beginning of the pandemic we have been lied to by the government, big tech and the mass media. Any ideas that didn’t follow the official word were considered misinformation and people were kept off the internet and many lost their jobs.

A person who serves on a community board is one who cares about his or her community and its people. They don’t get paid. An open and free society should encourage different ideas and be open to debate, and that didn’t happen with this pandemic.

Richard Polgar Maspeth

Shame Santos’ elected pals

Dear Editor:

George Santos is not fit to be in office. This, we know. To their credit, most local elected officials have denounced him and called for the congressman’s immediate resignation.

Vickie Paladino, a right-wing provocateur masquerading as an NYC Council member, has the distinction of being among his dwindling support base. At a recent meeting of her fringe group, the Whitestone Republican Club, she stated that she would not be calling for his resignation because of her belief that he would still vote in line with her priorities. Underscoring the absurdity of the situation, she repeatedly referred to him as “Anthony,” a middle name of his and one of many aliases.

Recent polling confirms that a bipartisan, overwhelming majority of residents in Santos’ district want him to resign. Vickie’s refusal to condemn him is abhorrent, and speaks to her craven desire to maintain and consolidate power at all costs. Perhaps this is not surprising — Paladino’s time is often spent stoking culture wars on social media and reminiscing about the days when marijuana was illegal. Her hatred of “drag queen degeneracy” has selectively disappeared in the face of revelations that Santos performed as “Kitara Ravache” in Brazil. And her son and chief strategist, Thomas Paladino, refused to condemn the Jan. 6 insurrection-affiliated Proud Boys, saying that “‘they do not consider themselves to be AltRight’” — a variation of a refrain that hateful groups have fallen back on for millennia.

So long as Santos has supporters in elected office, his tenure is given further legitimacy. New York’s 3rd Congressional District deserves, and will have, competent representation. George Santos, in one fashion or another, will exit public life in disgrace. Those who refuse to condemn his fraudulent presence are complicit, and are destined to face the same political end.

In first test of charter co-locations, Adams yanks Success for SE Queens Success proposals withdrawn by city

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

Proposals for Success Academy to be colocated in two Queens schools were pulled by the city this week.

The plans drummed up opposition in recent months from the MS 72 and Springfield Gardens Educational Campus communities, elected officials and the teachers union as Success fought to open elementary schools in the buildings.

The Queens charter proposals were set to be voted on by the Panel for Educational Policy on Tuesday, and another one for the Bronx on Wednesday, but the three were withdrawn. The other item on the agenda, a proposed grade truncation of PS 150 from a K-6 school to a K-5 school in Building Q150, will now be heard at the monthly meeting on Wednesday.

“After hearing from community members throughout this entire process that the proposals would create significant challenges for the new schools and the existing co-located schools, the Success Academy proposals involving buildings X113 in District 11, Q420 in District 29, and Q072 in District 28 have been removed from this week’s PEP agenda,” Schools Chancellor David Banks said in a prepared statement on Monday.

Input was gathered, he said, through joint public hearings, building walkthroughs, meetings with Community Education Councils and school leadership teams, and engagement with other stakeholders.

Success founder and CEO Eva Moskowitz called the move, which she found out about through Twitter, “profoundly disappointing.”

“It’s not like the city is just bursting with hundreds and hundreds of high-performing schools,” Moskowitz told the Chronicle. “There are massive problems and we offer something that is in extremely high demand because of the excellence that we pro-

vide, and to ignore the wishes of thousands of constituents of Southeast Queens is really so disappointing.”

She said that community opposition is simply a “narrative” but that the thousands of families who have applied — nearly 4,000 from Districts 28 and 29 last year — indicate that there is community support.

“What that’s really code for is that politicians and UFT-oriented folks are opposed,” Moskowitz said. “I’m not saying there aren’t some members of the community but ... there are more in favor.”

Of those families who had applied, Moskowitz said in a statement, “We will not let the Adams Administration abandon them.”

She said her team will regroup and mobilize.

“I am not going to abandon children,” she said. “I never have and never will. So we are going to mobilize and we are going to not be treated as second-class citizens by anyone.”

Critics opposed the co-locations for reasons including overcrowding, mixing elementary and high school-aged students and taking away resources, all of which Moskowitz rebutted.

She said the school buildings were underutilized, with MS 72 at 43 percent capacity and the high school at 63 percent. She also said that putting elementary-aged kids in buildings with high school students has never posed a problem for the charter network.

Charters are entitled to use vacant space in DOE buildings, and, Moskowitz said, otherwise she could sue for space somewhere.

Clevevon Akil, a restorative justice coordinator at MS 72 who helped pen a letter to the city Department of Education outlining concerns about the potential co-location, said there is a sense of relief among the school community following the news.

“Them being in the building would change our whole dynamic,” said Akil.

“Even though there’s three different schools, we’ve created a community where we all work together,” she continued.

MS 72 in Rochdale Village is home to two middle schools and a District 75 special education school. Although there is underutilized space, Akil said the school needs it to grow and it is expected to do so as two of the schools have federal magnet grants.

“The space that we have here is for us to grow, not to give it away,” she said.

Moskowitz says there is now a time crunch to find the space before the schools would start in August and that Success is beholden to the city’s ability to find it.

“We are committed to continue to work with Success Academies to find suitable facilities for their new schools, as we are required to do by law,” said Banks.

Earlier this month, Borough President Donovan Richards came out against the co-locations, which Moskowitz called a “significant blow.”

“I think it’s pretty significant that Donovan Richards is opposing this, like he’s supposed to represent all of Queens — charter parents, district parents. And that’s a significant blow to us that someone who has expressed support of charters is coming out against this proposal,”

she told the Chronicle before the withdrawal.

In a prepared statement on Monday, Richards said, “Students across Southeast Queens have been forced to endure years of systemic disinvestment in their schools, punctuated by a seemingly endless cycle of co-locations that further devalues the education our children receive.”

He continued, “Throughout this process, it was clear that co-locating Success Academy with MS 72 and SGEC would present significant and entirely avoidable challenges for both campuses, negatively impacting the education of our public school students.”

Richards added that the focus must be on improving public education.

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) said the DOE made the “right decision,” maintaining that a charter in MS 72 would have undermined access to shared facilities.

“I have historically opposed school colocations that set school communities back and negatively impact the education of our students, and I emphatically reject this proposal as well,” Adams said.

She urged the city to find other locations for the schools. Q

Hochul unimpressed with congestion bill

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

A Republican congressman from the Hudson Valley and a Democrat from New Jersey have introduced a bill that would prevent the cash-strapped Metropolitan Transportation Authority from accessing federal capital if their constituents don’t get bridge and tunnel tolls deducted from any congestion pricing fee for driving into Midtown or Downtown Manhattan.

But Gov. Hochul wasn’t exactly shaking in her shoes when asked for comment on the

bill last week.

The federal government is examining the state’s request to allow a congestion pricing toll for vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street. The top rates in existing models range from $9 to $23 per trip. The intent is to cut traffic and raise $1 billion per year in revenue for the MTA, which would use the first $1 billion to leverage $15 billion of borrowing.

U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler (R-Pearl River), whose 17th District sits just north of New York City, and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) said in a statement from Lawler’s office on Jan. 19

that their residents and business owners already pay enough in tolls.

“For too long, Hudson Valley commuters have gotten the short end of the stick,” Lawler said. “With reduced service, no one-seat ride for Rockland County residents, and subways that have become increasingly dangerous, it’s no wonder that ridership is down as more folks commute into the city by car or by telecommuting. Which is why congestion pricing, a ludicrous tax grab by the country’s most mis-managed authority, should be stopped dead in its tracks.”

Gottheimer said the plan, by the MTA’s own admission, would not reduce congestion and would increase pollution in places like Fort Lee, which he represents.

Hochul’s office provided her quotes when asked about the bill last week.

“I assure you, regardless of what happens in the House of Representatives that would have to get through the United States Senate with Majority Leader Chuck Schumer [D-NY],” Hochul said. “... So, we’re moving forward ... But we’re not deterred by the sideshows that may or may not be happening elsewhere.” Q

Proposals to co-locate Success Academy elementary schools in MS 72 in Rochdale and the Springfield Gardens Educational Campus were withdrawn this week. PHOTO COURTESY MS 72 / FILE

Eva Moskowitz

PHOTO BY RYAN BRADY / FILE

“The space that we have here is for us to grow, not to give it away.”

— Clevevon Akil

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FBI: Clothes — and video — made the man

Feds arrest Ozone Park resident for $250K jewel robbery at Queens mall

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Federal prosecutors are going to the videotape — a lot of it — in their case against an Ozone Park man for the theft of $250,000 worth of jewelry from a store in the Queens Center mall on Dec. 31.

In a sworn FBI complaint, authorities allege that they are in possession of a string of surveillance videos that show Fernando Frias, 51, of Centerville Street, going from his home to the Zales jewelry store in the mall and back, aided by a second person driving him to and from the mall in a van.

While the man holding a Zales employee at gunpoint wore a mask and orange gloves, the office of Breon Peace, U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, alleges that numerous videos show Frias heading to the store and his home in the same hooded shirt, gloves and camouflage pants with no mask and his face clearly visible.

The complaint alleges that Frias entered the store at 11:23 a.m. on Dec. 31 and asked the sales clerk to examine a diamond ring.

When the sales clerk opened the case, the masked man caught on surveillance video pulled a gun and ordered her to leave the case open. As she backed away, the robber jumped over the case and began “shoveling jewelry into a bag.”

The complaint acknowledges that the sales clerk described the gunman as being a Hispanic male between 20 and 30 years old, but the complaint, in a footnote, said law enforcement has still been able to establish Frias as the suspect, largely using the clothing the gunman wore.

The robber also was described as wearing orange gloves, a face mask, a gray-and-orange hooded sweatshirt and camouflage pants, a description borne out by store surveillance videos.

Videos showed the same man wearing the same clothing entering and exiting the mall. A further video canvass also allegedly recovered footage before and after the robbery showing Frias leaving and returning to an address on Centerville Street; Frias entering and leaving a white van both at his home and at a spot near the mall; and the van subsequently taking Frias to his home over the same route it traveled to go to the mall; in some shots without a mask.

The complaint states Frias was further identified by an NYPD detective as a man who “has been arrested multiple times for

theft-related crimes” most recently last February for crimes allegedly committed last Feb. 8, 14 and 19.

“Frias has been the person of interest in approximately 20 crimes over a one year period,” the complaint continues, alleging

FHVAC expands the safety net Volunteer ambulance group adds Kew Gardens, Richmond Hill

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

that in connection with an arrest he gave the NYPD the home address of the building that the Zales robber left and returned to on Dec. 31.

In an accompanying document requesting that Frias be held without bail, the government said that when the FBI went to serve a search warrant at the Ozone Park address, Frias was not at home, having been arrested “moments before” by the NYPD Warrants Squad in connection with a pair of “larceny-related” incidents.

“At the time of that arrest, the defendant tried to climb out a window of his home in an effort to avoid apprehension,” the detention memo states.

When confronted at the police precinct by agents about the value of the jewelry taken in the Zales robbery, Frias allegedly said “that if he had stolen $300,000, he would have been in Ecuador.”

The FBI also alleged that in one open Queens case, the theft of cell phones from a T-Mobile store with a total value of “thousands of dollars,” Frias allegedly intimated that he had a weapon in his pocket, stating that he would hurt someone if he had to. Q

Residents

of

Kew Gardens and Richmond Hill now have an additional set of first responders in the event of medical emergencies.

The Forest Hills Volunteer Ambulance on Jan. 10 received final state and city approvals to respond to emergency calls in the two neighborhoods. The group already serves Forest Hills and Rego Park.

FHVAC Vice President Aviv Citron said it had been a two-year application process.

“We were founded in 1971,” Citron told the Chronicle. “In 1997 we expanded from Forest Hills to Rego Park.”

The latest expansion, he said, was a twoyear application process, requiring approval from the New York City Regional Emergency Medical Safety Council, the New York State Department of Health and the State Emergency Medical Safety Council.

He said the area previously had been served by the Woodhaven-Richmond Hill Volunteer Ambulance Corps, which stopped service in 2018.

“For five years they were not served by a volunteer group,” he said.

Citron said anyone in need in the four neighborhoods can call its emergency number at (718) 793-7747.

“They can dial us direct,” he said. “Otherwise, we are in a mutual aid agreement with the New York City Fire Department. Sometimes the Fire Department will have a backlog due to call volume. Or, it could be a weather-related backlog, and they will activate us, at which point we will be the 911 response for any community, and we could respond anywhere.”

The expansion includes parts of state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr.’s (D-Woodhaven) new district as well as portions of the old one. The senator welcomed the expansion in an interview on Wednesday.

He said it just expands the combined safety net already cast by city EMS and the volunteer groups.

“We have very good volunteer ambulance corps that surround us,” he said. “Sometimes they are our first responders, and Forest Hills has been doing this for over 50 years. So when a credible group like Forest Hills gets an expansion, it means that those residents now will be cared for in an emergency situation. People will benefit from that.”

Citron said, of course that the new territo-

More visioning

ry coincides with FHVAC’s plans to expand itself.

“We always want more volunteers,” he said. “Currently we have 70 members on roster. We would like to double that, especially now with the new territory. We’re looking to purchase another ambulance so that we have three in the fleet ... And funding is always going to be the biggest issue we have.”

Citron said information on volunteering with or donating to the FHVAC can be found on its website at fhvac.org.

After welcoming hundreds of Queens residents to his Mets’ Citi Field on Jan. 7, team owner Steve Cohen is set to host another visioning session this Sunday, Jan. 29, so community members may weigh in on the future of the 50 acres of land to the west and south of the ballpark. Community members can sign up for 30-minute time slots between 12 and 3 p.m. Sunday, during which they can suggest ideas for future development and answer questions from Cohen’s team. To register, visit queensfuture.com; space is limited.

The Queens Chamber of Commerce is hosting a similar session for members only on Saturday.

— Sophie Krichevsky

Federal authorities allegedly used a defendant’s clothing and a string of surveillance cameras to trace his movements from Ozone Park to the Queens Center mall and back. PHOTO COURTESY U.S. DOJ

PHOTO BY SOPHIE KRICHEVSKY / FILE

The Forest Hills Volunteer Ambulance this month added Kew Gardens and Richmond Hill to its coverage area following city and state approval.

PHOTO BY STEVE FISHER / FILE

National scandal has put borough elected officials in a tough spot How will Queens pols work with Rep. Santos?

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

When, just over two weeks ago, Nassau Republicans called on Rep. George Santos (R-Nassau, Queens) to resign in light of his fraudulent resume and dubious financial history, several said they would not work with the congressman and would refer constituents to other offices.

As allegations against Santos have continued this month, Queens elected officials have been left to navigate how they ought to work with the congressman.

Several people, including state Sens. John Liu (D-Flushing) and Toby Stavisky (D-Whitestone), welcomed 3rd District residents to contact their offices as opposed to Santos’.

“It’s not about him — it’s about our constituents,” Liu told the Chronicle.

He added that, in cases where federal assistance might be warranted, his office would contact the appropriate federal agencies. Stavisky said she would direct those cases to Sens. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) or Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), as will the office of Assemblyman Ed Braunstein (D-Bayside), according to Suzanne Monteverdi, his chief of staff.

Braunstein could not have been clearer about his game plan: “I have no plans to

work with George Santos,” he said in a statement. At a protest outside Santos’ district office Jan. 7, Braunstein did not hide his doubts about Santos’ ability to serve the district: “He’s basically useless to us.”

Stavisky agreed. “We’re entitled to a representative who can perform the duties of a member of Congress.” Asked whether she thought Santos was capable of doing so, she added, “Not in the slightest.”

To that end, shortly before her interview with the Chronicle, Stavisky said she had been in a meeting with Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing).

“I said to myself, ‘There’s a member of Congress,’” Stavisky said.

Meng said in a statement that “it is important that [Santos’] office be open to serve constituents” as investigations move forward.

Santos has not indicated that he intends to work with his Queens colleagues. None of the six lawmakers who spoke with the Chronicle had heard from anyone in Santos’ office. As Liu put it, “We’re not aware of anybody in his office.” Santos did not respond to the Chronicle’s inquiry.

Among the few who seemed willing to work with Santos were Councilmembers Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) and Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone).

Though she strongly condemned Santos’ continued pattern of deception, Lee said in a statement, “Regardless of party affiliation and politics, we are public servants here to serve and make a difference for the communities we represent.”

“I work with everybody,” Paladino said. “How much is [Santos] actually going to do ... for this district?”

She added, “If he is actually going to do his job, then fine.”

At the same time, Paladino told the Chronicle she does not trust Santos: “That ship has sailed.”

“He’s an enigma wrapped in a question mark wrapped in an enigma,” she added, describing him as a “meme.”

“I don’t know how people can trust him,” Stavisky said. “It’s a matter of public trust.”

But the electeds who share constituents with Santos are not the only ones who face that challenge. “I don’t think this has anything to do with party — I think this has to do with building coalitions,” Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) said of the effect of the scandal surrounding Santos.

That also extends to electoral politics, even as the Republican Party made inroads in Queens during the 2022 election cycle.

“In New York State and in New York City, we don’t have a very deep bench [of] Republicans to run,” Ariola said. She added that she would like to see candidates’ backgrounds more thoroughly checked; she has also called on Santos to step down.

Ariola is one of several of Santos’ Queens colleagues who have called for his resignation. As Stavisky put it, “If he’s interested in performing public service, he should resign.

“That would be his greatest contribution.” Q

Assemblyman Ed Braunstein has said he will not work with Rep. George Santos, including at a Jan. 7 protest. PHOTO BY SOPHIE KRICHEVSKY

Ramos, Stavisky and Liu at heart of controversial judicial hearing Queens sens. vote against LaSalle

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

As the political clash over Gov. Hochul’s nominee for chief justice of the Court of Appeals, Justice Hector LaSalle, reached a boiling point, Queens elected officials found themselves right in the middle.

State Sens. Jessica Ramos (D-East Elmhurst), Toby Stavisky (D-Whitestone) and John Liu (D-Flushing) were among the 10 Judiciary Committee members who voted not to advance LaSalle’s nomination to the full Senate last Wednesday, winning by a one-vote margin.

LaSalle, who is currently the presiding judge for the Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department, has been viewed by critics as too conservative for the post. Ahead of last week’s hearing, some Democrats had voiced concerns about LaSalle’s views on abortion and his past rulings in labor cases. At the same time, the party has expressed a desire to see a more diverse bench; if approved, LaSalle, who is Puerto Rican, would be the New York Court of Appeals’ first Latino chief justice.

Those issues were chief of mind during the five-hour hearing, much longer than similar ones have been historically.

“They have in a sense, engendered very little controversy. Most of them were an open and shut, very brief process,” Stavisky told the Chronicle, referring to previous chief justice nominations.

Still, in a statement following the failed vote, Hochul said that, while “thorough,” the hearing was “not a fair one, because the outcome was predetermined,” noting that some committee members had said how they intended to vote prior to the hearing.

Ramos disagreed. “The fact that a few of us knew how we were going to vote ahead of time was simply because we did our homework,” she said. “Of course, you read the decisions ahead of time and formulate an opinion. I think it would be dishonest to play coy.”

Asked whether he thought the hearing was a fair one, Liu replied, “Absolutely.”

“We spent five hours with him — the committee asked a wide range of questions,” Liu said. “This is for chief judge, who will not only run the court, but will set the tone and the direction for all New York state courts for many, many years.”

Stavisky, too, said the hearing was fair. “The fact that we’re exercising our advise and consent judgment shows that we are trying to find the best person for the position,” she said. Later, Stavisky added that LaSalle got some “tough” questions during the hearing, and said he “answered them as best he could.”

All three senators addressed LaSalle’s ethnicity in discussing the vote tally.

“I think there are lots of people — myself included — who would have liked nothing better than to be able to confirm the first Latinx chief judge,” Liu said.

“In the end, race can never be the only element considered.”

Both Ramos and Stavisky called attention to the panel’s diverse membership; two of its three Latino members voted against LaSalle. Ramos also noted that not everyone in the same racial or ethnic group shares the same views; using herself as an example, she said, “If I lived in George Santos’ district, do you think I would have voted for George Santos?”

But the role of ethnicity in the LaSalle hearing is not one that has been taken lightly. One source familiar with intra-committee discussions said there was some concern that voting down a nominee of color might make it more difficult to confirm one in the future.

Liu, however, was not worried. “There’s still an opportunity to nominate and confirm a Latinx chief judge,” he said.

That depends on what happens next. Hochul is reportedly considering suing the Senate in order to get a vote on the floor, arguing that the state Constitution says the full Senate — rather than just the Judiciary Committee — must vote on such nominations.

Even before that, the nomination of a conservative justice had created a divide between Hochul and the Senate, where Democrats have a supermajority.

“I don’t understand why she didn’t just show the list to Andrea Stewart-Cousins and say, ‘Who on this list can you live with?’” Brian Browne, a political science professor and analyst at St. John’s University said, referring to the majority leader. “Forget whether it’s going to be a super liberal person — just who can we get done?”

Browne also suggested that Hochul’s narrow victory in November may have played a role in her more conservative pick.

“That really was the most painful thing,” Ramos said. “We just came off of a hardfought election win for the governor. Why create these divisive issues that we didn’t have?”

Upon naming LaSalle as her pick, Hochul noted the justice’s “sterling reputation as a consensus-builder,” would be key in the court’s “protecting our rights and upholding New York values.”

But politically speaking, it is not entirely clear why the governor would use the opportunity to nominate someone her party would not be broadly satisfied with.

Asked about why she believed Hochul tapped LaSalle, Ramos was clear that it “is absolutely a political process.”

“There isn’t a doubt in my mind that certain parties are protecting their interests,” she said.

Suing the Senate has the potential to widen the rift between Hochul and the Senate in a substantial way, Browne said.

“A lot of governing, it’s not just counting votes — which she seems to have miss-

stepped [with] a little bit — but it’s building consensus,” he said. “How does she build consensus if there’s a lawsuit going on with it?” He added that budget negotiations would be a key test of that.

Plus, Stavisky said, suing the Senate could pose a “dangerous precedent.”

“We have the separation of powers between the executive and the Legislature,” she said. “One should not infringe on the other.”

Even if Hochul were to win a lawsuit, it’s not clear that she would have enough support to confirm LaSalle, as both Ramos and Browne pointed out.

As the Senate waits in limbo, questions remain about Hochul’s next moves.

“A lot of the question is: How does she bounce back?” Browne said. “Is this a hill she wants to die on? Or does she pick herself up, dust herself off and live to fight another battle?”

Hochul’s office did not immediately respond to request for comment. Q

Device issues $800 tix for loud exhaust

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

The Department of Environmental Protection has been deploying a secretive device on streets around the city to ticket drivers with exceedingly loud exhaust sytems.

The numbers cited so far are small, as the DEP has only one such device in its pilot program: 71 summonses issued with six pending, according to agency spokesman Douglas Auer.

But the tickets are big, thanks to a recent change in state law: $800 for a first offense.

They go to $1,700 for a second violation and $2,500 for a third.

The device combines a high-definition camera with an audio sensor triggered by vehicles that exceed noise limits — 85 decibels when they are at least 50 feet away, Auer said.

The city deployed the first camera-sensor combo in four locations from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, he said. It went to a fifth site in November. The DEP expects to have a second one operating in early February, with more coming by the end of June. The agency will not say where the equipment has been

deployed or comment on appearance for safety and security reasons.

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) said Wednesday he supports the program because officials hear complaints about loud exhaust all the time.

“On the state level, obviously our intent was to crack down on a very popular quality of life complaint that we get in my district, throughout my district,” he said, noting that loud exhaust is both a quality-of-life and environmental issue.

He recognized that some of his constituents

will object, noting that some people “already are altering their license plates for the speed cameras along Woodhaven and Cross Bay Boulevard.”

Many drivers are customizing their exhaust to purposely make it exceedingly loud. But if someone’s muffler fails and he or she is on the way to get it repaired and gets an $800 ticket, the city should be accommodating, Addabbo said when presented with that idea.

If the driver presents a repair receipt within say, a 30-day window, the ticket should be dismissed, the senator said. Q

State Sen. Jessica Ramos is one of three Queens lawmakers on the Judiciary Committee. All three voted against confirming Justice Hector LaSalle as the Court of Appeals’ chief. NYS SENATE PHOTO / TWITTER

The bumpy confirmation process has sparked an intraparty fight, pitting Gov. Hochul against Democratic senators.

Cannabis board issues more permits

Councilwoman Paladino says illegal smoke shops need more regulations

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

The state Cannabis Control Board approved an additional 30 Conditional Adult-Use Retail Dispensary licenses Wednesday, bringing the total throughout New York to 66.

There are now 10 nonprofits and 56 individuals approved for the CAURD certifications, according to the state Office of Cannabis Management.

“The Cannabis Control Board is thrilled to provisionally approve a new slate of CAURD licenses that will help continue to position New York as the most inclusive cannabis industry in the country and usher in a new era of economic opportunity,” said Tremaine Wright, chair of the Cannabis Control Board, in a statement. “We’re ensuring those most impacted by the unjust enforcement of cannabis prohibition are paving the way for a new industry filled with potential and economic opportunity.”

The board also gave the green light to five marijuana testing laboratories in upstate New York and Long Island and approved of one more Adult-Use Cannabis Processor, bringing the new total of labs to 12 and processors to 40, according to the OCM.

The new permits come on the heels of reports that there are over 1,400 illegal weed dispensaries throughout the Big Apple, and was a subject that was raised during a City Council oversight hearing last week.

Aaron Ghitelman, an OCM spokesman, said the agency is committed to working closely with partners at all levels of government to ensure New York’s cannabis industry continues to be safe, fair and equitable under the state’s law, which has opened its doors to consumers to offer “safe” products.

“The Office of Cannabis Management’s enforcement team is working every day to advance investigations that shut down unlaw-

ful cannabis operations, including by seizing products, issuing cease-and-desist letters and removing trucks used for illicit sales,” Ghitelman told the Chronicle via email.

Councilwoman Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) feels the OCM’s efforts are too little, too late.

“They botched it up,” Paladino said about the state’s efforts to legalize marijuana.

“They legalized without any infrastructure or regulations in place. Every other vice is regulated, this should be as well.”

On Tuesday, Paladino was present at a raid with Sheriff Anthony Miranda at an alleged illegal smoke shop in Mitchell Linden located at Parsons Boulevard and 14th Avenue.

“It was filled with Beanie Babies and adorable stuffed animals,” said Paladino about the store that was raided. “That brings in really young kids.”

Paladino has a legislative request that if introduced and approved on the Council floor would ban candy-like edibles, childlike marketing and synthetic marijuana. It would also require identification for people who want to make purchases and prevent the stores from being open 24/7.

“These stores should be closed before midnight,” Paladino said. “It’s bringing in a criminal element ... Our sheriff’s task force is going borough to borough issuing violations constantly.”

Paladino would also like the stores to be 1,000 feet away from schools and to be fined based on the amount of illegal goods seized.

A New York Medical Cannabis Industry Association 2022 report stated that e-coli and heavy metals were found in products at illegal smoke shops. Some goods were also marketed as name-brand candy, chocolate, gummies and other snacks.

The illicit sale of the products will hurt youths and public health, the NYMCIA concluded. Q

Constituents say they frequently struggle to make medical visits Anderson fights for #6Min bus service

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

State Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson (D-South Ozone Park) didn’t let a downpour prevent him from advocating for #6MinuteService for subways and buses last Thursday.

With a group of straphangers and members of the Riders Alliance, a public transit organization, Anderson caught the Q111 bus in Jamaica on Jan. 19 and spoke with riders about their difficulties traveling throughout the borough and the city.

The assemblyman is seeking support from fellow elected state officials to push Gov. Hochul to provide more funding for buses and subways in the next state budget, which is due April 1. Anderson also wants straphangers to sign the sixminuteservice.org petition to bring awareness to the initiative.

“As a Southeast Queens resident and commuter, I know the persistent challenges our working-class residents face in being able to enjoy a timely, reliable, and affordable commute,” Anderson told the Queens Chronicle via email in a statement.

Anderson, who represents Rosedale, South Ozone Park, South Richmond Hill, Springfield Gardens, JFK Airport and parts of the Rockaways, said that the latter part of the area he represents is geographically isolated and on average, it takes commuters more than 15

No plastic for you! — city law

John Lennon, post-Beatles, had the Plastic Ono Band. The New York City Council, post its most recent meeting, is the Plastic: Oh, No Band.

The Council voted 43-7 to ban food joints from including plastic utensils in deliveries unless requested, in a move designed to reduce pollution of the manmade, nonbiodegradable stuff.

Mayor Adams’ office said Tuesday he intends to sign the bill.

“New York City has long been a leader in the fight to reduce the use of singleuse products — especially plastics — to fight climate change, reduce carbon emissions, and divert waste from landfills,” City Hall spokeswoman Kate Smart told the Chronicle via email. “This is an important step to reduce consumers’ personal waste impact, which is why we support this legislation and look forward to working with the City Council to enact it.”

The “Skip the Stuff” bill also bars condiment packets, extra containers and napkins unless requested. Fines will start at $100 after July 1, 2024. Queens Councilwomen Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) and Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) voted no. Q

— Peter C. Mastrosimone

minutes to get to a subway station in the remainder of Assembly District 31.

“Having buses run every six minutes is a cost-effective step to revamping our bus network to propel its transit system forward, especially as we look to expand access to riders living in transit deserts and redirect existing lines to connect more riders to the subway system,” Anderson added.

Hochul, however, told members of the press last year that she intends on cutting expenses in whatever areas that she can find, as MTA President Janno Lieber works toward seeking new revenue streams to fund the agency.

During her State of the State address in January, Hochul said despite a resurgence of ridership, the MTA faces “uncertainty.”

“Governor Hochul took action in 2021 to avoid a fare hike or service reductions, and she is committed to providing safe, quality, and reliable transit service to riders,” her spokesman John Lindsay told the Chronicle. “We will continue working with federal partners and state legislators on how to best support public transit.”

Danny Pearlstein, the communications director for the Riders Alliance, believes the best way forward for both the MTA and the city is making a $200 to $300 million investment that would fund capital improvements, such as new subway cars and buses.

An investment in more service would mean more riders and more money, which would help the MTA meet its goals, Pearlstein added.

“Instead of discontinuing old subway cars and buses, we can fix them or work towards replacing them sooner and we can place them in new storage facilities with better maintenance services,” Pearlstein said. “That would be a very significant first step for off-peak levels ... We need to have more frequent round the clock service.”

During the ride along, Anderson learned that several bus riders missed medical appointments because of inconsistent wait

times and several did not know about the Fair Fares Card, which offers 50 percent off for eligible people who are financially struggling, according to his spokesman.

Later, Anderson waited more than 20 minutes for a limited Q114 bus at Farmers and Guy R. Brewer boulevards to Far Rockaway, where he held a press conference.

“One of the important things that we have to acknowledge is that the working-class people still have to go to work, students still have to ride these buses to go to school and they still have to struggle through what we see with our poor bus infrastructure here,” Anderson said.

Danna Dennis, a senior organizer at the Riders Alliance, was onboard for the #6MinuteService initiative.

“We are looking for a number, and that number is six,” Dennis said. “We are looking for all transit buses to be six minutes apart. It is super important that people are not exposed to the elements at various bus stops in the cold and rain as we are doing now.”

Dennis noted that some riders are seniors, have babies or have mobility issues and not all bus stops have dedicated shelters or seats.

“They are waiting 20 to 30 minutes for a bus,” Dennis added. “It may not be rush hour — and that is a big part of the conversation as well — on-peak and off-peak service.” Q

Queens blood donors needed

The New York Blood Center is facing its greatest blood shortage in a decade and is urging donors to sign up to help surgical patients, cancer patients, accident victims, burn victims and others.

Information and registration are available at nybc.org.

Upcoming blood drives include:

• NYC Department of Design and Construction from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 26, at 30-30 Thomson Ave. in Long Island City;

Lollobrigida’s star shone in ’81

Movie star Gina Lollobrigida, who died Jan. 16 at age 95, caused quite a stir when she appeared in Queens at an event called Vita Italia — Italy Life — on Feb. 26, 1981.

The event was held at Terrace on the Park. In this photo, never before published, Lollobrigida is flanked by Queens leaders as one man behind her reaches to give her a card to sign, which she does. The group surrounding the world-famous actress, photojournalist and sex symbol includes Queens Borough President Donald Manes, left, Bishop Anthony Bevilacqua of the Diocese of Brooklyn,

who later became a cardinal, and Queens District Attorney John Santucci.

Lensman Walter Karling recalls that the late Vincent Iannece of the Federation of Italian-American Organizations of Queens — father of now-Criminal Court Judge Jerry Iannece — called him at the last minute to let him know Lollobrigida would be at the event.

One of the most famous European actresses of the 1950s and ’60s, Lollobrigida was known not only as a cultural ambassador for Italy but also for her charitable giving.

— Peter C. Mastrosimone

• The Shops at Atlas Park from 1 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 27 and Wednesday, Feb. 8; and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, at 8000 Cooper Ave. in Glendale next to Sacca’s Suits and Tailor;

• Queens Place mall from 1 to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, at 88-01 Queens Blvd. in Elmhurst in the old Outback Steakhouse site; and

• Queens County Courthouse from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, at 125-01 Queens Blvd., conference room 832, in Kew Gardens; and

• Queens Masonic District, 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 18, at 21-14 30 Ave., in the meeting room, in Long Island City. Q

Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson with a straphanger. PHOTO COURTESY NYS ASSEMBLY

PHOTO BY WALTER KARLING

Divine Mercy Catholic Academy

101-60 92 St., Ozone Park (718) 845-3074, divinemercyca.org

Divine Wisdom Catholic Academy

45-11 245 St., Douglaston (718) 631-3153, dwcaonline.org

Holy Child Jesus Catholic Academy 111-02 86 Ave., Richmond Hill (718) 849-3988, hcjcany.org

Holy Family Catholic Academy

74-15 175 St., Fresh Meadows, (718) 9692124, holyfamilyca-freshmeadows.org

Immaculate Conception Catholic Academy, Astoria, 21-63 29 St. (718) 728-1969, iccaastoria.org

Immaculate Conception Catholic Academy, Jamaica, 179-14 Dalny Road, (718) 739-5933, iccajamaica.org

Incarnation Catholic Academy

89-15 Francis Lewis Blvd., Queens Village (718) 465-5066, incarnationqv.org

Notre Dame Catholic Academy

62-22 61 St., Ridgewood (718) 821-2221, notredame-ca.org

Catholic AcademiesElementary and Schools

Courtesy of the Diocese of Brooklyn January 2023

Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Academy, 25-38 80 St., Jackson Hts. (718) 429-7031, olfcaqueens.org

Our Lady of Hope Catholic Academy

61-21 71 St., Middle Village (718) 458-3535. olhca.org

Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Academy

70-25 Kessel St., Forest Hills (718) 793-2086, olmercyca.org

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Academy, 111-10 115 St., South Ozone Park, (718) 843-4184, olphca.org

Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Academy, 35-34 105 St., Corona (718) 426-5517, olscorona.org

Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Academy, 34-45 202 St., Bayside, (718) 229-4434, olbsacademy.org

Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Academy, 79-33 258 St., Floral Park, (718) 343-1346. olscafp.org

Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Catholic Academy, 72-55 Austin St., Forest Hills, (718) 263-2622, olqmca.org

Resurrection Ascension Catholic Academy, 85-25 61 Road, Rego Park (718) 426-4963, racatholicacademy.org

Sacred Heart Catholic Academy (Cambria Heights), 115-50 221 St., (718) 527-0123, shcach.org

Sacred Heart Catholic Academy of Bayside, 216-01 38 Ave., (718) 631-4804, sacredheartbayside.org

Sacred Heart Catholic Academy of Glendale, 84-05 78 Ave., (718) 4566636, sacredheartglendale.org

St. Adalbert Catholic Academy

52-17 83 St., Elmhurst (718) 424-2376, saintadalbertca.org

St. Andrew Avellino Catholic Academy

35-50 158 St., Flushing (718) 359-7887, standrewavellinoca.com

St. Bartholomew Catholic Academy

44-15 Judge St., Elmhurst (718) 446-7575, stbartholomewca.org

St. Clare Catholic Academy

137-25 Brookville Blvd., Rosedale (718) 528-7174, stclarecatholicacademy.org

St. Elizabeth Catholic Academy

94-01 85 St., Ozone Park (718) 641-6990. stelizabethca.org

St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy, 21-18 46 St., Astoria (718) 726-9405. sfaacademy.org

St. Gregory the Great Catholic Academy, 244-44 87 Ave., Bellerose (718) 343-5053, sgtgca.org

St. Helen Catholic Academy

83-09 157 Ave., Howard Beach (718) 835-4155, sthelencatholicacademy.org

St. Joan of Arc School

35-27 82 St., Jackson Heights (718) 639-9020, sjaschoolny.org

St. Joseph Catholic Academy

28-46 44 St., Long Island City (718) 728-0724, sjcalic.org

St. Kevin Catholic Academy

45-50 195 St., Flushing (718) 357-8110, stkevinca.org

St. Leo Catholic Academy

104-19 49 Ave., Corona (718) 592-7050,stleocatholicacademy.org

St. Luke School

16-01 150 Place, Whitestone (718) 746-3833, slswhitestone.org

St. Margaret Catholic Academy

66-10 80 St., Middle Village (718) 326-0229, stmargaretschoolmv.org

St. Matthias Catholic Academy 58-25 Catalpa Ave., Ridgewood (718) 381-8003, stmatthiasca.org

St. Mel’s Catholic Academy

154-24 26 Ave., Flushing (718) 539-8211, stmelsacademy.org

St. Michael’s Catholic Academy 136-58 41 Ave., Flushing (718) 961-0246, stmichaelsca.org

St. Nicholas of Tolentine Catholic Academy, 80-22 Parsons Blvd., Jamaica (718) 380-1900. sntschoolny.org

St. Sebastian Catholic Academy 39-76 58 St., Woodside (718) 429-1982. stsebastianacademy.org

St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Academy, 61-17 Grand Ave., Maspeth (718) 326-1585, ststansacademy.org

St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Academy, 87-49 87 St., Woodhaven (718) 847-3904, sta-catholicacademy.org

Saints Joachim and Anne School 218-19 105 Ave., Queens Village (718) 465-2230, ssjaschool.org

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;

We

• develop real-world skills;

• shape leaders;

• reward achievement;

• reinforce values;

• allow for spiritual growth;

• embrace differences;

• raise standards;

• empower each student; and

• celebrate school spirit.

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

— diocese ofbrooklyn.org/schools / secondary-education /

➤FaithForma on: Daily prayer and spiritual development, complete sacramental program for First Penance, First Communion and Confi rma on, First Friday Mass, prayer services and community service projects.

➤RigorousAcademics: 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.

➤SpecializedPrograms: 3-K-for-All, Pre-K-forAll, a erschool extracurricular ac vi es, training in music and art, chess, drama club, engineering club, coding club, Kiwanis builders club, soccer and CYO sports.

DIVINE MERCY CATHOLIC ACADEMY ACADEMIA CATÓLICA DE LA DIVINA MISERICORDIA

Celebrating 100 years of Catholic Education! Students at Divine Mercy Catholic Academy in Ozone Park are educated in a caring, family atmosphere that is committed to excellence in education. Standardized and state scores excel especially as students advance in grades. The school prepares children of all ethnic and religious backgrounds with Christian moral values, knowledge, skills and an appreciative attitude that will empower them in life.

Students actively participate in monthly Mass and daily prayers. They are made aware of the needs of others and provide service through participation in drives for the victims of natural disasters and charitable programs including St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Jeans for Troops and Hour Children.

The academy offers 3 For All (threeyear-olds) and Pre K (four-year-olds) programs. These programs are free. In addition, we offer kindergarten through eighth grade (tuition based) in a safe CCTV and structured environment. There is an aftercare program from 3 to 6 p.m.

Spanish is part of the curriculum for grades fi ve through eight and there is an Art program for all. ALL students use SMART board technology and have individual devices to enhance learning. Bus transportation and the free lunch program are available to eligible students. Learn-It math, reading and counselling services are offered for qualified students.

The elected Student Council plans activities for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Catholic Schools Week and throughout the school year, which are fun for all and often of service to others. Parents have the opportunity to help the school and meet other parents at such events as car washes, seasonal parties, Christmas wreath decorating/ sale and the annual Fashion Show. For more information or for an appointment to visit the school, please call the school at 718-845-3074 #1. Visit our website www.divinemercyca.org and our Facebook page: www.facebook. com/DMCA.

¡Celebrando los 100 años de la Educación Católica! Los estudiantes de la Academia Católica de la Divina Misericordia en Ozone Park son educados en un ambiente familiar y afectuoso que está comprometido con la excelencia en la educación. Los puntajes estandarizados y estatales sobresalen, especialmente a medida que los estudiantes avanzan en los grados. La escuela prepara a los niños de todos los orígenes étnicos y religiosos con valores morales cristianos, conocimientos, habilidades y una actitud apreciativa que los empoderará en la vida.

Los estudiantes participan activamente en la misa mensual y en las oraciones diarias. Se les informa sobre las necesidades de prójimo y brindan servicio a través de la participación en campañas para las víctimas de desastres naturales y programas de caridad que incluyen St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Jeans for Troops y Hour Children.

La academia ofrece programas “3 For All” (niños de tres años) y “Pre K” (niños de cuatro años). Estos programas son gratis. Además, ofrecemos un programa de kínder hasta 8º grado (basado en costo de matrícula). Estamos en un ambiente seguro con cámaras de seguridad de circuito cerrado (CCTV). Hay un programa de cuidado después de la escuela de 3pm a 6 p.m.

El español es parte del plan de estudios

para el grado 5º a 8º y hay un programa de arte para todos. TODOS los estudiantes usan la tecnología SMART Board y tienen computadoras tabletas individuales para mejorar el aprendizaje. El transporte en autobús y el programa de almuerzo gratis están disponibles para los estudiantes elegibles. Learn-It matemáticas, lectura y servicios de consejería se ofrecen para estudiantes califi cados.

El Concilio de Estudiantes elegido planifica actividades para Halloween, Acción de Gracias, Navidad, Semana de las Escuelas Católicas y mucho más durante todo el año escolar. Estas actividades son divertidas para todos pero también se planifi ca proyectos en servicio a los demás. Los padres tienen la oportunidad de ayudar a la escuela y conocer a otros padres en eventos como Lavado de Autos, Fiestas de Temporada, Decoración Y Venta de Coronas Navideñas y el Desfi le de Modas Anual. ¡Nos encantaría que su familia se uniera a nuestra familia en la Academia Católica de la Divina Misericordia!

Para más información o hacer una cita para visitar la escuela, llame al 718-8453074. Visite nuestro sitio web www.divinemercyca.org y nuestra página de Facebook: www.facebook.com/DMCA.

Accredited by Cognia International Call for more information regarding registration/school visits

Please join us at our open House:

Sunday, January 29 th 12:45 - 1:45PM

Thursday, February 2 nd 6:00 - 7:00PM

ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING

by Kristen Guglielmo

Nineteenth-century poet Emily Dickinson once started a poem with the titular phrase, “There’s a certain Slant of light.” In the poem, she reflects on the oppressive feelings of winter, and the sadness it can bring with its darkness. At Mrs., the art gallery in Maspeth, Sarah Bedford is showing an exhibition

that shares a title with the poem. The paintings are loosely inspired by Dickinson’s dark poetry brought about from feelings of isolation, along with a love of nature — things she and Bedford have in common.

Lights in the darkness

and flower-arranging. Today, sh

Bedford grew up living on an isolated cattle ranch in Montana, and had quite an affinity for seeds and flowers in her youth. She spent her time working in her mother’s garden, and as a result, she has a lasting love for gardening and flower-arranging. Today, she lives and works in Brooklyn, and her art has been shown in numerous galleries and exhibitions.

Artist ties Dickinson’s poems to night-blooming flowers at Mrs.

“Emily Dickinson’s poetry has this beauty and darkness, and it shows how she grapples with the unknowns of the world and her life,” Bedford said. In her art, she does the same. She uses floral motifs, and they come across as a visible reminder of fragility and beauty. This exhibit is no exception — it grew from Bedford’s own darkness, and reflects upon it with elegance and a bit of hope.

A multitude of different flowers intuitively drawn from Bedford’s memory can be found in the paintings, which were created over five months and consist of mostly acrylic paint on canvas and linen.

“I wanted to create my own garden in an interior space,” she explained. “This just evolved into something totally unplanned. It’s been great to let loose and not overthink. It’s my own little garden — without the snakes or frogs.”

Within the darkness of the paintings, bits of vibrance can be spotted in shades of blue and yellow and green, subjecting us to sparks of hope. “What’s amazing about the natural world is that it keeps changing,” Bedford said. “Ecology and climate change are some of my big concerns. When looking

continued on page 25

King Crossword Puzzle

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

Les Paul, Mary Ford made music in Jackson Hts.

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Lester William Polsfuss was born on June 9, 1915 in Waukesha, Wis. His parents divorced at an early age. To lift his spirits he took took up the harmonica, the piano and the guitar. Drafted in 1943, he was assigned to the Armed Forces Radio Network, where he worked with Bing Crosby and the Andrews Sisters. A self-taught guitarist, he had fingers that were so fast some said, “It was like watching a train go by.”

He met country-western singer Coleen Summers, who was blessed with a pure singing voice. They fell in love and were married in 1949. Professionally he changed his name to Les Paul and suggested she change hers to Mary Ford. They were hired by NBC to do a radio show in 1950 called “The Les Paul Program” in New York.

They maintained a multitrack, “sound on sound” recording studio — a technique he invented — at 40-15 81 St. in Jackson Heights. Paul was a pioneer in the creation of electric guitars, and is the only person in both the Rock & Roll and National Inventors halls of fame. Paul and Ford produced

“A GUT- BUSTING HIT! ”

The apartment building where Les Paul and Mary Ford had a studio apartment in 1950 at 40-15 81 St. in Jackson Heights, as it looked around 1945.

a string of hit songs and moved into their own home in Mahwah, NJ, in 1953.

Ford passed away in 1977. Paul continued to perform into his 90s. He passed away on Aug. 12, 2009. Paul was called a unmatched legend in the recording industry. Q

SPORTS EAT

New Mets Hall of Famers

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

The Mets have announced the 2023 inductees for their Hall of Fame Museum, located in the rotunda of Citi Field. Former third baseman Howard Johnson, southpaw starting pitcher Al Leiter and team broadcasters Gary Cohen and Howie Rose. Former team spokesman Jay Horwitz will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award. The ceremony will take place prior to the game with the Toronto Blue Jays on June 3.

The inductions of Johnson and Leiter, both fan favorites and key contributors to Mets teams in the late 1980s and 1990s, respectively, exhibit the reasons why most baseball teams have their own hall of fame museums. While both enjoyed fine careers, they would be the first to admit they do not qualify for induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in upstate Cooperstown. Nonetheless, they deserve recognition for their terrific tenures wearing a Mets uniform.

Gary Cohen, the longtime Mets television play-by-play voice, and his radio counterpart, Howie Rose, grew up in Flushing and Bayside, respectively. Both cited how living in Queens and being close to Shea Stadium were why they became huge Mets fans at young ages during a Zoom press conference on Thursday. They spoke about how today’s fans see them with the same fondness their parents had for the triumvirate of Ralph Kiner, Lindsey Nelson and Bob Murphy,

Bthe team’s radio and TV voices for many years.

Horwitz ran the Mets media relations department from 1980 through 2018. In his 2020 autobiography “Mr. Met” (Triumph Books), he admitted it was the Mets soon-to-be-former owners, the Wilpon family, who asked him to leave media relations and become the team’s VP of alumni affairs, where he continues to serve.

Horwitz has been great in that relatively new role, but the Mets should have let him remain as vice president of media relations. I never realized how good he was handling the needs of the press until he was no longer doing that job. Jay did it well for 39 years. His successor stepped down from that post after just four.

While it is great the Mets will salute Jay, he deserves to be honored in the exact way Leiter, Johnson, Cohen and Rose will be. Mets CEO Steve Cohen should commission the same bronze bust for him that every other Mets Hall of Fame inductee has received.

Granted, it won’t mollify fans who feel flustered that the team could not reach a deal with Carlos Correa, but the Mets did beef up their offense last week when they signed free agent outfielder Tommy Pham. I recall Pham being a tough out when he played for the St. Louis Cardinals. He joins the recently acquired Tim Locastro in providing respectable outfield depth. Q

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

INSET VIA WIKIPEDIA / LIBRARY OF CONGRESS

Just some old-fashioned love songs, live onstage

by Mark Lord qboro contributor

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner and to get a jumpstart on putting everyone in the mood, Royal Star Theatre in Jamaica Estates is presenting an original musical revue, “The One,” for two performances only on Jan. 28 and 29.

According to the show’s director, Alex Jamison Ferlazzo, the revue consists of two dozen numbers with no dialogue, just non-stop musical entertainment. The songs, which explore various stages and aspects of love, include its title song, taken from the Broadway musical “First Date.”

Choosing it as the show’s title, Ferlazzo said, “made sense. When you’re looking for the right person, you’re thinking someone is the right one. Hopefully, you’ll live happily ever after.”

Video footage provided by the production offers insight into some of the other musical selections. These include the touching “When Words Fail,” from “Shrek,” sung here by Daniel P. Stravino; the duet, “Follow Your Heart,” from “Urinetown,” featuring Anne Marie Cahill and JK Larkin; the ever-popular “For Good,” from “Wicked,” as performed by Dan Kuhlman and Tara Mangione; and “Stupid with Love,” from “Mean Girls,” given a

dynamite rendition by Mangione.

While many of the songs are culled from relatively recent theatrical attractions, old-time Broadway is not forgotten. Case in point is “Someone to Watch Over Me,” a Gershwin classic traditionally sung by a female and given a new twist here by Kuhlman, who sings it as written, including lines such as “I’d like to add his initials to my monogram.”

Others in the cast are Ellen Armet, Louis DiBono, Monica Maddock and Tiffa-

ny McCue.

The production reunites many of the individuals who were involved in a recent RST show, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” Ferlazzo, who is making her debut as a director here, said in a recent telephone interview, “It gave me comfort knowing I’ve shared a stage with these people.” In fact, she eschewed auditions in favor of hand-selecting the performers.

Stephanie Larkin serves as the musical director and pianist. She and drummer

Evita Belmonte provide the musical accompaniment.

According to Ferlazzo, the first act addresses the question of “searching for the one, trying to find the right person.” The show goes on to ask what happens when one finds love and whether that love will last. It all leads up to the finale, “I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do,” from “Mamma Mia.”

Choreographer Amanda Montoni was responsible for providing steps for three dance numbers, which Ferlazzo described as “great.” One of these, “You’re the One That I Want,” written for the film version of “Grease,” is a sure crowd pleaser.

The sets and costumes will be kept to a minimum. According to Ferlazzo, the performers will “dress like you would on a first date, based on the individual characters.”

Ferlazzo has had a heck of a good time putting the show together. “I’ve never felt so creative,” she said. “I found a new side of myself.”

Performances take place on Jan. 28 at 8 p.m. and Jan. 29 at 3 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church Parish Hall, located at 86-45 Edgerton Blvd. in Jamaica Estates. Tickets are $20 in advance, or $17 for seniors and children. They are $2 more at the door. For further information, or to order tickets, visit royalstartheatre.com. Q

Through the garden darkly, with night’s flowers

continued from page 23

back, it’s very hard to understand where we’re going from here, so that’s a darkness. But there’s also hope for the future.”

The paintings focus largely on darkblooming night flowers, with darkness being a central theme of the exhibit.

“I grew up around cereus flowers. I was going to do the whole show based on that, but sometimes once you start painting, all these other shapes take over,” Bedford

Crossword Answers

explained. As a result, the cereus flower inspiration that exists within the art is accompanied by other night-bloom-inspired florals, such as moon flowers, black poppies and snakehead lilies. “They’re all dark, underbelly flowers that people might not see. You would be hard-pressed to find any of these here in New York.”

While the painted florals are inspired by real flowers, they are not completely accurate recreations — Bedford used them as inspiration, formally and conceptually.

“It can be hard to know what you’re doing and why, and you just respond to things as you go,” she said. “Every action has a reaction, and that’s where I work. But then it’s up to you [the audience] to enjoy.”

When discussing a painting called “Twilight Planetarium,” Bedford commented, “I started thinking about what would grow on Mars. I came up with these sort of celestial orbs and moons, and this one flower made the cut for living a new life somewhere.”

One of the central paintings of the exhibit is titled “The Seed.” It is the sole painting in the exhibit that depicts a flower outside of Bedford’s memory. It showcases Silene stenophylla, a plant regenerated by Russian sci-

entists from tissue found in ancient ground squirrel burrows that were hidden in Siberian permafrost. The painting consists of the enclosed florals with hues of pale baby blue and white that emulate a chilling energy,

whilst somehow radiating hope for the uncertainties of the future.

“A Certain Slant of Light” is showing at Mrs. through March 4. For more information, visit mrsgallery.com. Q

Rehearsing “The One” for Royal Star Theatre are Louis DiBono, left, Tiffany McCue, Monica Maddock, Dan Kuhlman, Ellen Armet, Anne Marie Cahill, JK Larkin, Daniel P. Stravino and Tara Mangione. The show runs Jan. 28 and 29.

PHOTO COURTESY ROYAL STAR THEATRE

Among Sarah Bedford’s works on display at Mrs. are “Late Spring,” left, “Moonlight,” “Blue Mallow” and, inset, “The Seed.” On the cover: “Winter Hours” and the artist with another of her pieces. PHOTOS BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO AND, COVER PORTRAIT, CHARLIE RUBIN

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Legal Notices

Notice is hereby given that an On-premises liquor license, Serial #TBA has been applied for by Matigy Cafe Corp d/b/a Sands of Persia to sell liquor, beer, wine and cider at retail in an on-premises Restaurant. For on-premises consumption under the ABC Law at 25-01 Steinway Street, Astoria NY 11103.

Notice is hereby given that a Liquor License, serial number 1357234, for a Summer Beer/Wine Tavern license has been applied for by the undersigned to permit the sale of beer/wine, at retail in a Tavern under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at Queens Night Market LLC located at 4701 111th Street, Corona, NY 11368 on-premises consumption. Queens Night Market LLC.

1781 OCEAN LLC. Art of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 12/16/2022.Offi ce: 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, LEGALCORP SOLUTIONS 1060 Broadway Suite 100 ALBANY, NY 12204 Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

18-54 CORNELIA ST. LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 01/13/23. Offi ce: 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, 18-54 Cornelia Street, Ridgewood, NY 11385. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

411 EAST 163RD STREET, LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 12/21/2022. Offi ce loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 14-20 136th Street, College Point, NY 11356. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

917 Clintonville LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 12/9/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Debra B. Dunham, 151-16 9th Ave., Whitestone, NY 11357. General Purpose

Notice of Formation of AERIAL ARMOR APPAREL LLC

Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/12/2022.

Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: AERIAL ARMOR APPAREL, 21-22 21ST ROAD APT 2F, ASTORIA, NY 11105. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of AUTO KING RENTALS LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/21/2023.

Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: AUTO KING RENTALS LLC, 24604 57TH DRIVE, LITTLE NECK, NY 11362. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of BOBBI SINCLAIR LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/30/2022. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: NORTHWEST REGISTERED AGENT LLC, 90 STATE STREET, SUITE 700, OFFICE 40, ALBANY, NY 12207. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Builtinc, LLC fi led w/ SSNY 12/9/22 Off. in Queens Co. SSNY desig. as agt. of LLC whom process may be served & shall mail process to Christian Cedillo, 4004 34th Ave, Apt. 401, LIC, NY 11101. The reg. agt. is Christian Cedillo at same address. Any lawful purpose.

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff - against - HUGO VELASTEGUI, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on December 27, 2019. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on the 3rd day of February, 2023 at 11:00 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Premises known as 103-12 104th Street, Ozone Park, New York 11417. (Block: 9507, Lot: 12) Approximate amount of lien $722,088.99 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 704393/2014. Charlane O. Brown, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170 Tel. 347/286-7409 For sale information, please visit Auction. com at www.Auction.com or call

(800) 280-2832 Dated: August 29, 2022 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.

CITI HOMES HOLDING LLC

Articles of Org. fi led NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/8/22.

Offi ce in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to PO Box 180608, Richmond Hill, NY 11418. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Principal business loc: 61-43 186th St., Ste. 437, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365.

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR MERRILL LYNCH FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN ASSETBACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-H1, Plaintiff - againstGEORGE W. SCHIEREN, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 3, 2022. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on the 24th day of February, 2023 at 10:00 AM. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Premises known as 105-22 135th Street, South Richmond Hill, New York 11419. (Block: 9594, Lot: 9) Approximate amount of lien $939,385.14 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 707008/2015. Angelyn D. Johnson, Esq., Referee. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Attorney(s) for Plaintiff, 420 Lexington Avenue, Suite 840, New York, NY 10170, Tel. 347/286-7409

For sale information, please visit Xome.com at Xome.com

Dated: November 17, 2022

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 DEEN SWEET TREATS, LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/30/2021. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: DEEN SWEET TREATS, LLC, 226-46 77TH AVE, BAYSIDE, NY, 11364. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Real Estate

EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718-722-3131.

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

Apts.For Rent

Bushwick, 272 Knickerbocker Ave, #3L. 2 BR, 1 bath railroad apt, $2,300/mo. Eat-in kit, tile fls. Tenant pays heat, gas & electric. Avail NOW. Call Stellina Napolitano 646-372-7145. Capri Jet Realty

Greenpoint, 738 Humbolt St, #2. 4 BR/2 bath apt—$4,900/mo. Fully renov, new & modern apt, kit w/SS appli & dishwasher, W/D, Central AC. Heat & water incl. Avail now. Call Agnes Siedlik, 917-288-0660. Capri Jet Realty

Howard Beach, 1 BR, utils incl, $1,500/mo. Call 718-848-6431. Leave message.

Maspeth, 61-22 55 St, #1. 3 BR, 2 bath, $3,100/mo. Avail NOW. Heat, gas & water incl. Full renov apt, dishwasher, microwave. Call Agata Landa, 914-255-7284. Capri Jet Realty

Open House

Howard Beach/Lindenwood/ Ardsley Bldg. Sun 01/29, 153-25 88 St, 12pm-2:00pm. Beautiful 1 BR Co-op w/terr. Small dog allowed. 30% D.P. req. “Just move-in”. Reduced $209K. Hi-Rise, on 6th fl, 2 BRs, 2 full baths, DR/ dining area & galley kit. Reduced $245K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Open House

OPEN HOUSE

Sat, Jan., 28th, 1-3 PM Sun, Jan., 29th, 12-2 PM

36 Maplewood Avenue

BOGOTA, NJ

3 Bedroom Colonial. Expanded Living Room, Formal Dining Room. Hardwood Floors. Garage. Deck. Newer Furnace. Central Air. www.russorealestate.com (201) 837-8800

Howard Beach/Lindenwood / Fairfield Arms. Sun 01/29, 151-20 88th St. 12:30pm-2pm. 1 BR, 1 bath, Needs TLC. $169K Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Howard Beach/Lindenwood / Fairfield Arms. Sun 01/29, 151-20 88th St. 12:30pm-2pm. Hi-Rise, 3 BRs converted from 2 BRs, 2 full baths, newly renov lobby & all 6 fls. Reduced $259K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Howard Beach/Lindenwood / Fairfield Arms. Sun 01/29, 151-20 88th St. 12:30pm-2pm. Hi-Rise, Lg 2 BRs, 2 baths, all new carpeting. Reduced $228K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Legal Notices

Notice of Formation of WESTIN FLUSHING OPERATIONS LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/05/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: GEORGE XU, 3366 FARRINGTON STREET, SUITE 200, FLUSHING, NY 11354. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Jan. 29 would be the longest NYC ever got into winter without flakes Snow could be a late arrival in Queens

by Michael Gannon and Sophie Krichevsky

Senior News Editor and Associate Editor

Absent any measurable amount of snow by Sunday, Jan. 29, the New York City area will set the record for the latest-ever date in winter without the white stuff.

The simple answer according to experts consulted by the Chronicle was the same — it has just been too warm for snow to form and stick. But the underlying causes, they said, are myriad.

“We have actually had about an inch more than the normal precipitation for the past month, compared to Dec-Jan over the last 30 years,” said Timothy Eaton, a hydrologist and geologist at Queens College, in an email. “But the temperatures have also been above normal as well. So that makes all the difference: we got rain instead of snow.”

He said, for example, that a storm last week could have produced 6 inches of snow had the temperature been five and 10 degrees cooler.

“[The] temperatures didn’t get below 40F based on measurements at Queens College, so there was no chance the 0.70 inch precipitation we got could have been snow.”

Brian Ciemnecki of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said recent storm tracks have been bringing

warmer ocean air with them; he said their indicators say warmer-than-normal temperatures will be holding for a while.

“That doesn’t mean we can’t get a snowstorm out during that period,” Ciemnecki

said. “It just means that the signals are in place for ... the atmosphere to keep warmer air in place. It does appear that we’re going to stay that way for a little bit longer.”

Peter Geiger at the Farmer’s Almanac

said the La Niña weather pattern in the Pacific Ocean also is playing a role. La Niña is an oceanic and atmospheric condition that sees lower-than-normal ocean temperatures across a section of the eastern Pacific near the Equator. It is considered the colder sister of the El Niño pattern. Both are acknowledged to have far-reaching impact on the country’s weather.

“We talked about it being really cold at the end of January, early February,” Geiger said. “So maybe there’ll be some very light kind of stuff. Beyond that, you may just have one of the couple of winters where there was nothing to talk about.”

Eaton said in terms of the environmental effect, the present situation is a mixed bag.

“On the one hand, if the rain is nice and gradual, like in the last two rains over the past week, that’s good for groundwater recharge,” he said. “On the other hand, if the rain falls in higher intensity storms (heavier rain over short times), that could pose more problems for the NYC stormwater system, cause more sewage releases at combined sewer outfalls, and lead to more flooding in parks and other low-lying areas of the city. Heavier rainfall in winter nor’easters could lead to more situations like Ida last year, with catastrophic flooding in homes in parts of Queens.” Q

Cathedral High School

Starting on the Path to a Career in Medicine, Business/Finance and Law or STEM

3601 Bell Blvd., Bayside 11361 (718) 225-5502 www.lsfb.org

FREE FULL DAY 3-K & PRE-K KINDERGARTEN – GRADE 8 BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL CARE

“Big Enough to Challenge-Small Enough to Care”

Follow us on Facebook gg

Seats Available (K-3rd Grade, 4th – 8th Grade)

DOE sponsored

3-K & Pre-K for All program

Large classrooms, outdoor playground and indoor gymnasium

Stress of the Fine Arts and 30 minutes of recess every day along with the major subjects

Certified and Experienced Staff

Extended hours available

Located a few blocks north of the Bayside Train Station

Cathedral has been synonymous with academic success since it’s founding in 1905. Cathedral educates generations of young women to reach their scholastic potential. Its Honors Academy builds upon the honors classes and Advanced Placement courses and offers a rich academic and extracurricular program.

In the Cathedral’s Medical Gateways Academy through partnerships with New York’s world-class medical community, students have opportunities to observe medical professionals at work and to participate in internships while still in high school. The Academy includes a partnership with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Science Enrichment Program and Internship.

The Business/Finance and Law Academy features internship opportunities and career awareness.

with courses in biology, physics, chemistry, technology and extracurricular such as coding and robotics.

The Art Program provides a wide array of exposure to different art mediums and styles.

A full complement of extracurricular activities keeps the career-minded student body well-rounded. From clubs such as Drama, Newspaper, Dance and Billiards to sports which include Basketball, Cheerleading, Soccer, Softball, Lacrosse, Track, Volleyball and more.

Cathedral prepares its students for the world that lies ahead of them. The Class of 2022 received over $35 million in college scholarships and grants and were accepted into schools such as Barnard, Cornell, New York University, University of Pennsylvania and University of Notre Dame.

OPEN HOUSES: January 28th & February 11th (10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.)

January 31st & February 28th (5:30 - 7:00 p.m.)

*Class sizes are limited (15-20 students / room). Wearestillcomplyingwithstateandlocalhealthguidance toensurethesafetyandhealthofallstudentsandstaff.

The Science and Technology Academy is equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as 3-D printers, and is paired

For more information please contact Johanna Velez at (212) 688-1545 ext. 224 or jcastex@cathdralhs.org. Visit Cathedral’s website at www.cathedralhs.org.

A storm in April 2018 covered Forest Hills in a dainty blanket of white. And Queens might have to wait nearly that long for measurable snow this year if present weather patterns continue to hold course.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON / FILE

& 193 Frost

387 Van Brunt Street, Red Hook Brick 3 Family w/ Backyard in Red Hook! $1,949,000 661 Metropolitan Ave., Williamsburg X-LG 6 Family w/Huge Upside in Prime Williamsburg! $1,888,000

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153 Clinton Ave., Unit 1A, Clinton Hill Gorgeous Renovated 1 BR Co-op Unit! $545,000

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1255 Bushwick Ave., Unit 4A, Bushwick Gorgeously Renovated 1 BR Condo in Prime Bushwick! $435,000

City DOT announces Queens road closures

A large number of road and bridge closings will take place in Queens this week according to a press release from the city’s Department of Transportation.

All work is subject to change due to weather or other circumstances.

• First Street in Astoria will be closed between 26th and 27th avenues from 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, to 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, to allow for crane operations.

• College Point will see multiple closures to accommodate sewer projects this and next weekend.

• On Saturday, Jan. 28, 20th Avenue between 124th and 125th streets will be closed from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Work will close 15th Avenue between 117th and 118th streets from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28.

All four intersections at the ends of both projects also will be closed.

• In Astoria, 44th Street will be closed between 34th and 35th avenues from 9 a.m. through 4 p.m. on Fridays through the month of March for pouring of concrete.

• In Kew Gardens, 83rd Avenue between Kew Gardens Road and Queens

Boulevard will close from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 29, for crane operations.

• Rehabilitation of the Francis Lewis Boulevard bridge that crosses the Belt Parkway linking Laurelton and Rosedale will require closures of the westbound right lane and north sidewalk on the bridge from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Fridays through the end of January. Double-lane closures on the westbound side of the Belt will take place from 10 p.m. on Fridays through 5 a.m. Sundays, also through the end of the month.

CENTURY 21 AMIABLE II

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

718-835-4700

69-39 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385

718-628-4700

• Broad Channel • New home built in 2019. Raised home w/new block foundation low fl ood insurance, HW fl oors throughout, sprinkler system, CAC, solar panels, custom kitchen cabinets & SS appliances. Country landscaping in the yard is breathtaking. Walk to the stores, parks, tennis courts, library, Gateway National Park, train station & express bus. 5 minute drive to Rockaway Beach & the Ferry, 15 minute drive to JFK Airport.

• Lindenwood • Sunlit corner 1 bedroom , EIK, spacious LR/DR, unit on fi rst fl oor. Near all transportation, restaurants and shopping.

• Manhattan •

Move right in to this charming prewar, beautifully maintained true 2 BR, 1 bath Co-op apt in a prime Lenox Hill location. Corner unit is approx 1000 SF. & features ample windows & high ceilings. Master

OPEN

OPEN

Sunday, January 29th 12:00-2:00pm

Featuring a large 3 bedroom / 1 bath, updated apartment with granite countertops and hardwood

• Lindenwood •

Great opportunity to live in this 1 BR Co-op w/large 17ft. terr. Recently updated! Newly renovated kitchen has New SS appliances; Quartz countertop & shaker cabinetry. Updated bathroom has a new vanity; shower dr & freshly painted. Plenty of room to entertain in your formal LR that is 15’x17’; & you will be very comfortable in the oversized BR that is 18’x11’. Coop is well maintained & includes all utilities in the monthly maint even cable! Maint: $713.23. Flip tax is $35.00 per share 225 shares.

• Howard Beach •

Great opportunity! Create your dream home in this 1 Family 40x100 Ranch style home. Main level is set up w/ formal LR w/great natural light & gas fi replace; DR, kitchen, 3 BRs & 1 full bath. Lower level is fi nished w/generous storage; laundry area; work room; & open space w/ outside entrance. Additionally, the home has an attic for more storage & 1 car garage w/pvt driveway. Well manicured front & back yard w/ in-ground sprinkler system. Central AC. Home has been well maintained. Selling “as is”.

Residential 1 Family 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, full fi nished basement. Asking

The city is warning drivers of road and bridge closures for construction. FILE PHOTO