Queens Chronicle South Edition 03-14-24

City cuts trash plan’s hit on parking spots

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

The number of street parking spaces that will be lost as the city moves to containerization of garbage has been cut to somewhere between 22,000 and 34,000, the Queens Chronicle learned this week.

The prior estimate was 150,000 spots.

The greatly reduced figure comes about because the city has decided to utilize large, European-style containers only for actual garbage, not for recyclable materials, explained Joshua Goodman, a Sanitation Department spokesman and its deputy commissioner for public affairs & customer experience. The bins will go in the street. Initially the city had planned to use them for recycling too.

With public street parking spaces citywide totaling somewhere in the neighborhood of 3 million, the share of spots now to be lost to trash containerization is about 1 percent. “Very important reminder: these containers are for large buildings only,” Goodman said via email. “They will have NO impact on blocks with smaller buildings.”

The 12,000-spot variability is because buildings with 10 to 30 units will have the option of putting their garbage out in either the large, immovable bins or smaller ones on wheels. The latter will be left on the sidewalk as garbage cans are now.

Buildings of 31 or more units will have to use the stationary containers. Buildings with nine units or fewer will use wheelie bins.

But no more garbage will be left in bags on sidewalks. The goal is to have a cleaner city and to reduce the rat population.

Mayor Adams hates rats.

Containerization will be done gradually. The city issued a request for proposals last Friday for “the on-street containers that will

pave the way for citywide, residential containerization,” the DSNY said.

“Trash belongs in bins, not on our streets — but for half a century, New Yorkers have had to put up with mountains of garbage and hordes of rats lining our commutes,” Adams said in a prepared statement. “We’re saying ‘no’ to that status quo. We’ve already put 7 billion pounds of business trash a year into bins, and we’re not stopping there. These new

on-street containers will allow us to bring the ‘Trash Revolution’ to our large buildings, and they’ll bring us that much closer to the day when there are no more black bags on ou r streets.”

The revolution will begin in Manhattan’s Community District 9 next spring, with full citywide expansion to follow after public outreach and environmental review. A pilot program in part of West Harlem is underway, and the DSNY says rat sightings dropped by 68 percent year to year.

Residential buildings with nine or fewe r units must use “secure, sealed individual wheelie bins” as of this fall. Beginning in the summer of 2026, they will have to use “the official NYC Bin.”

Those buildings produce 40 percent of the city’s residential trash, the DSNY says. Buildings of 10 to 30 units produce 10 percent, and those with 31 or more, 50 percent.

Those largest buildings will each get their own container or containers, a break from the European model. The bins will hold as much as 28 large bags of trash, the DSNY says.

In her own statement, Sanitation Commissioner Jessica Tisch also referred to the “Trash Revolution” and noted that the RFP for residential bins came just one week after the city mandate that commercial garbage be containerized kicked in. Q

Residents at CB 10 criticize bus redesign

Speakers candidly share their thoughts on planned new routes at meeting

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

“I do not believe you guys are from Queens, because if you guys were from Queens, you would know this.”

At Community Board 10’s monthly meeting last Thursday, resident Nia Rollins spoke bluntly, receiving applause from her peers as she told MTA representatives her feelings on the Queens Bus Network Redesign’s proposed final plan.

But Lucille Songhai, assistant director of government and community relations at the MTA, told attendees, “Don’t be fooled because it says ‘final.’ We are really here to listen and hear your feedback.”

Songhai said the agency heard from state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven), Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) and other area elected officials on constituent concerns regarding the redesign.

She announced that, after an “overwhelming amount of community concern,” the Q10 southbound stop at 130th Street and Sutter Avenue will be reinstated, and welcomed further feedback on the redesign.

A majority of the concern was regarding the Q10 and Q9 buses.

According to the plan, which can be found on the MTA’s website, the proposed Q10 would serve the entire Lefferts Boulevard corridor, terminating at the Lefferts Boulevard AirTrain to JFK Airport stop, instead of going all the way to Rockaway Boulevard and 130th Street.

“This shorter, more direct routing allows

resources to be concentrated on the Lefferts Blvd corridor, increasing speed and reliability and simplifying service,” the agency wrote, adding that frequencies at select time periods would see a slight decrease, but that the bus would overall see an increase in service.

The proposed Q9, on the other hand, would be extended south along 130th Street, terminating at 135th Road and 130th Place, where the existing Q37 terminates.

Attendees didn’t hold back when voicing their thoughts.

“The Q10, especially turning on Rockaway and coming down 130th Street, is really critical,” resident Sinikka Wahab told the MTA reps. “Even though we may be a small neighborhood, it’s essential to us.”

She told the agency that, in her opinion, the redesign overserves Lefferts Boulevard.

Bibi Shah, a resident of South Ozone Park,

said the plan will “inconvenience all of us and put a strain on our pockets.”

She added that the redesign will put a strain and stress on her health due to having to wake up extra early in the morning and walk farther to catch her bus, as well as cost her more because she would have to pay extra fares to get to her destination.

“What happens to those old, disabled [community] members that cannot walk far?” Shah said. “What happens to them? I worry more for them than I worry for myself.”

After Shah’s time was up, board Chairperson Betty Braton told the reps that Shah does a lot of outreach to her neighbors.

“She’s speaking for more than just herself, and we urge you to listen,” Braton said.

“On the MTA website, it stated that the redesign plan was to meet customer’s priorities with more reliable service,” said Rollins. “I don’t think removing the Q10 will be doing that.”

She added that travel won’t be faster because some will have to take two or more buses, and that the Q9 and Q10 would surely become congested.

Rollins said catching the E train at Kew Gardens is safer than catching it at the Sutphin Boulevard station, and that the Q9 is dangerous and high in crime — sentiments that other attendees agreed with.

“I see kids taking the bus every day,” Rollins said. “What are they supposed to do?”

Songhai thanked the residents for their input and said the turnout was one of the biggest she had seen for feedback on the redesign at a community board meeting. Q

Algredo remains chair, others assume new roles CB 9 elects officers ahead of next term

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

With a new term on the horizon, Community Board 9 on Tuesday evening voted to keep Sherry Algredo as its chair.

Community Board officers — the roles of chairperson, first vice chairperson, second vice chairperson and treasurer — serve one-year or staggered two-year terms that begin on the first of April, according to nyc.gov.

Overseen by Kahleel Bragg, the director of community boards for the Queens Borough President’s Office, the election commenced with little fanfare.

When Bragg asked the group for chairperson nominees, members Kevin O’Leary and Andrea Craw-

ford nominated Algredo.

Dilraj Batchu attempted to nominate Faiuze Ali, the then-first vice chair, but because the motion was not seconded, Algredo was the sole nominee, winning uncontested.

“The first time I ran, I didn’t know what would happen,” Algredo told the group. “The second time, I didn’t want to be a one-year chair. And this time, I think we really worked together a lot, got things done, got to know each other. And I want to thank everyone for their support. The community board is not just me. It’s every one of you guys. I don’t shine alone. We all shine together.”

Esta-Joy “EJ” Sydell and Ali were the nominees for first vice chair. In a vote of 21-12, Sydell was elected.

The sitting second vice chair, Sandra Datnarain was nominated again for the position alongside Alexandria Sumpter-Delves, who was victorious in a 29-5 vote.

“I’m very excited to continue with the community board,” SumpterDelves said. “I’m happy to represent you all well.” She encouraged the public to send her their ideas.

The two nominees for treasurer were Kirpal Billing and Joe Iaboni. John Carter, who had the position during the previous term, did not secure a nomination.

Billing won in a 24-11 vote. He assured the group that he would make sure board funds are spent equitably.

In April, the board will welcome new members to fill approximately

“seven or eight” vacancies, Bragg told the group.

The seats of members Daniel Coffaro Hill and Bernard Robert will be among the vacancies. Hill, who was

MTA representatives, such as Lucille Songhai, with mic, heard input on the Queens Bus Network Redesign’s proposed final plan at last week’s Community Board 10 meeting. YOUTUBE / CB 10

first appointed to the board in 2022 at just 16, is leaving to prioritize his studies and other work, he said, and Robert, according to Algredo, is focusing on law school. Q

Community Board 9 Chair Sherry Algredo, with mic, was reelected to a third term at the group’s Tuesday meeting.

PHOTO BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO

‘Sweet Lil’ OZP small biz hopes to flourish

Bake shop overcomes adversity to serve up fancy desserts and coffee

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

“I brought two Italian friends from Ozone Park, and they said it was like heaven,” state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) told the Chronicle.

Sweet Lil Sweets, a small independentty owned bake shop located at 102-12 101 Ave. in Ozone Park, is about to celebrate one year of its storefront on March 18.

Owned by resident Jennifer Rodriguez, the shop sells mini cupcakes, cheesecakes, cookies, coffee, tea and other bakery offerings. Popular items include the dulce de leche and cheesecake-flavored cupcakes. The space is tidy, with chic decor and a room for small parties.

“I was born and raised here,” Rodriguez said. “And this building was my childhood pizzeria. We used to come here as kids.”

She said one day she was walking by to go to the supermarket, and the landlord was standing outside.

“He told me he was renting. Someone was coming to look at it right at that moment. He told me, ‘If they say no, we’ll talk.’ So that happened, and it worked out.”

In her youth, Rodriguez also eyed a storefront across the street from her current location.

“It was a pasta store,” she said. “It was so beautiful. As I kid, I wanted that place. But as time passed by, I became a mom and I didn’t

even think about owning my own business.”

Prior to the storefront, Rodriguez was baking for about 10 years from home. She started taking it seriously after her divorce.

“I was already doing it here and there, but when I went through my divorce, I was like, ‘OK, it’s time to make money. And this is my talent, so this is what I’m going to do.’”

According to Empire State Development, small businesses make up 98 percent of New York companies.

Reaching one year of business is a feat for the shop, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that 18 percent of small businesses fail within their first year.

And for Rodriguez, opening her own storefront didn’t come without its challenges.

“I didn’t know I needed an architect or that plumbing is so much money. It was expensive to get up and running,” she said.

Rodriguez and her daughter, Destiny, are two of three total employees at the shop.

HB smoke shop raided again

Though an arrest was made, the store reopened the next day

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Howard Puff Convenience, a smoke shop at 159-55 102 St. in Old Howard Beach, was raided last Thursday, March 7.

Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), who assisted with the first raid of the shop last fall due to its alleged illegal sale of marijuana, posted the news on Facebook with a photo of a shop employee, who police identified as Abdullah Almassxabi, 18, of the Bronx, getting arrested.

The shop immediately reopened, but Ariola told the Chronicle she expects it to be permanently closed under the city’s nuisance abatement law.

“We’ve been working with our partners in law enforcement to shut this store down since the moment they opened their doors,” Ariola said in a statement to the Chronicle.

“I personally went undercover for a sting against them last year, and this location has now been marked for nuisance abatement so that they can finally be closed for good,” Ariola said. “We cannot allow unlicensed, illegal vendors to set up shop in District 32, and I promise that we will keep on taking action against these kinds of bad actors until that message is received loud and clear: anyone who wants to peddle unlicensed products and endanger our children will not be welcomed here.”

“I am grateful to the constituents who constantly contacted our office which allowed us to provide additional details to the police,” Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Howard Beach) said in a statement. “On behalf of our community, I thank the amazing and diligent work of the NYPD and Queens South Narcotics as their hard work is stopping these illegal shops. The police and my office will continue to work together in tandem to change the laws. We will shut down the illegal stores!”

Pheffer Amato’s office is next door to the shop, and she was also present during the raid.

More than 400 packs of untaxed cigarettes and more than 30 pounds of unlicensed marijuana products were removed from the premises, Ariola’s office said.

Almassxabi was allegedly living in the back of the store, and police found a small mattress in the back room, according to Ariola’s office.

Authorities told the Chronicle that Almassxabi was charged with criminal possession of controlled substances, possession or sale of unstamped cigarettes and criminal sale of cannabis. Q

Howard Puff Smoke Shop in Old Howard Beach was raided last Thursday, according to police and elected officials, including Councilwoman Joann Ariola, top. One arrest was made.

PHOTOS COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

“She’s been helping me since around 2016,” Rodriguez said. “I used to put her to do little things, but I would say starting maybe four years ago, I could really depend on her to do something — so now she does the cheesecakes, cupcakes. There’s things that only I do, but she really helps.”

Another challenge is simply getting people to enter the premises.

“A lot of people are intimidated to come in, and I hate that for us,” Rodriguez said. The space is reminiscent of pâtisseries found in Downtown Brooklyn or Manhattan, and does not have large signage, which Rodriguez said could throw off some visitors.

Still, she hopes her shop can add a little flair to the area. Other business owners in the neighborhood have even popped into the store to show support, Rodriguez said.

“We want to build the neighborhood back up,” she said.

She has looked into pricing for putting up holiday lights in Ozone Park, inspired by those in Howard Beach, and hopes others in the community will pitch in.

In the vein of Women’s History Month, asked what advice she would give to other women who want to open their own small business, Rodriguez said, “Don’t give up. Don’t listen to what others are saying and just follow your heart.” Q

HB Kiwanis scholarships

The Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach is continuing to support higher education by awarding annual scholarships to students living in the 11414 ZIP code for the eighth consecutive year.

The funds will benefit high school seniors who will be continuing their education at an accredited college or university in the fall of 2024.

According to the club, this year’s programs will feature three $2,500 awards available to community-minded individuals, as well as three $1,000 scholarships, benefiting six total honorees.

The $1,000 awards are the James Giustizia Memorial Scholarship, the Matthew Pecorino Scholarship and the August Sirgiovanni Memorial Scholarship. According to club member Steve Sirgiovanni, the scholarships are named for their sponsors.

The application can be found on the club’s website, howardbeachkiwanis. org. All forms must be postmarked no later than April 30. Those with questions can contact Sirgiovanni at (917) 209-3336. Q

Jennifer Rodriguez, left, owner of Sweet Lil Sweets in Ozone Park, works hard alongside her daughter, Destiny, to make her small business a success. PHOTO BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO

DOE: Virtual learning isn’t going anywhere

Chancellor and other staffers take on tough questions at CEC 28 town hall

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

“Virtual learning is here to stay — no matter what happened a month ago, it is here to stay,” said schools Chancellor David Banks on Monday evening at a town hall hosted by Community Education Council 28 at JHS 217 Robert A. Van Wyck in Jamaica.

Asked about what appears to be a lack of preparation when it comes to supporting families and staff during remote learning, Banks said, referencing the technical issues during last month’s remote learning snow day, “We were all disappointed when we shifted to remote and had the delay that we had. And so nobody was more disappointed than me.”

He said the Department of Education has met with its partners at IBM to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

“At any given moment, we can have technological problems — the sound can go out on a sound system, the lights can shatter. I mean, there are all kinds of challenges that we can have. So we work really hard to prevent those challenges,” Banks said.

He also said that more learning will happen virtually, “even when we don’t have a crisis.”

Students who lamented the loss of their favorite meals from their school’s lunch menu can breathe a sigh of relief, as the DOE plans to reinstate some offerings it previously cut due to

budget restrictions.

Emma Vadehra, the deputy chancellor of operations and finance, said the agency expects to get additional funds to the food budget, since the DOE is serving almost 10 percent more meals than last year, or 900,000 meals a day.

Vadehra said over the course of March and April, items like french toast sticks and burritos will be returning — two choices that students said they missed, according to the agency.

Overcrowding in schools has been a pertinent issue for District 28 schools, and Banks called upon DOE Executive Director of Customer Service and Operations Trevonda Kelly to answer when faced with a question regarding the rise in enrollment.

Asked if the increase is due to newcomer students or existing residents, Kelly said that 1,700 new students in grades K through 12 entered the public school system in District 28 this school year, and that 900 of those students are in temporary housing.

Vijah Ramjattan, the CEC 28 president, asked what is being done in schools to accommodate the new additions, adding that schools are straining to find resources.

“So this is a question we get, Mr. President, all over the city,” Daniel Weisberg, first deputy chancellor, said. “And on one hand, it’s a good thing because it shows that people want to live in the amazing neighborhoods you

have in the Great 28.”

Weisberg said the agency cannot build schools as quickly as enrollment is rising, but that the School Construction Authority has demographic specialists who look at the data, building permits and detailed maps. He said the SCA meets with CECs to discuss priorities. Asked what the DOE is doing to help with wellness and health of its students, Security Director Mark Rampersant said that is one of

the agency’s priorities. He mentioned an application called Teenspace, available to those aged 13 through 17, that allows teens to request mental health support. He also said social work interns from Fordham, Columbia and New York University have been deployed in schools.

Ramjattan asked a follow-up question regarding the rise of vaping in schools.

“I often feel like we wait ’til someone dies, and it becomes bad. And it’s a pandemic.”

Rampersant said the DOE partnered with the NYPD and Sheriff’s Department.

“We often hear that young people purchase these items at the deli across the street, down the block at the smoke shop, but nobody’s really willing to stand up and say, ‘Yes, this is the location.’”

He said the NYPD interviews the students to see if they’re willing to say where they purchased the items, and that identifying a location enables the Sheriff’s Department to close it down.

“We are constantly fighting this battle alongside you,” Rampersant said.

Banks added that Mayor Adams currently does not possess the power to close illegal smoke shops, only the state. He said the public should bring their concerns to their area elected officials so they can urge the state to pass a bill that would enable the mayor to close them on his own. Q

Addabbo collects for pantry

State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) is opening his offices as collection sites where residents can donate to Sacred Heart Parish Ministries in Glendale, which needs personal care items and food donations.

Items can be dropped off at Addabbo’s offices at 84-16 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven, or 66-85 73rd Place in Middle Village. Both are open during regular business hours, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The list for suggested personal care and cleaning items includes hand soap;

dish soap; laundry detergent; shampoo and conditioner; toilet paper; paper towels; facial tissues; deodorant; toothpaste; and toothbrushes

Food items that always are in need include flour; sugar; vegetable oil; shelfstable milk; pasta; noodles; pasta sauce; peanut butter; jelly; tuna fish and canned salmon; canned soup; white rice; canned meats like chicken, Spam or ham; coffee and tea; cereal; macaroni and cheese; canned fruit and vegetables; ramen noodles or cup-a-soup; and condiments such as ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise. Q

“Happy

Schools Chancellor David Banks attended a town hall on Tuesday, hosted by Community Education Council 28 at JHS 217 Robert A. Van Wyck in Jamaica. ZOOM SCREENSHOT / CEC 28

MTA must save

The Queens bus route redesign plan is a noble effort and long overdue. As you’ve probably heard, some of the buses run along the same routes that trolleys used to follow. We’re talking 100-plus years ago. While some of those routes may still make sense, others have become outdated due to population shifts and other factors.

So it’s great that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority is reviewing the whole system from the ground up. The work was well underway several years ago when the pandemic hit, got shelved and then was revived. At this point the MTA continues to visit community boards to present its proposed “final” plan. Following that there’ll be a public hearing, maybe more changes, and then the truly final version will go to the MTA board for approval.

Wherever they go, MTA outreach officials have faced some resistance, naturally. Their plan could be divinely directed and there still would be people objecting. Yet their concerns are real, and in some cases at least, the MTA actually did go back and revamp its plans in response.

In Community District 6 in Central Queens, proposed changes to the Q23, which runs along 108th Street there, were revised due to feedback, according to MTA official

Lucille Songhai. And, she noted, the present plan as a whole is vastly different from the 2019 version — about which she said, “I have never seen Queens so united in hating something.” (Hmm. Ask us about congestion pricing.)

In South Queens, one cause of an “overwhelming amount of community concern” — again Songhai’s words — was the MTA’s plan to eliminate the southbound Q10’s stop at the corner of 130th Street and Sutter Avenue. That has been reversed, she told CB 10 last Thursday. At CB 5, Songhai heard from people concerned that if changes to the Q38 go ahead, and a new Q14 is created as planned, people getting off the M train in Middle Village will need a double transfer, costing them money. Another MTA official, Tori Winters, said the agency is working on that.

But whatever fixes to particular spots are made, the MTA has to get one thing right: Do not cut bus stops. It wants to do that to speed up buses, but any improvements would be incremental. The inconvenience for riders would not be, however, and it would rise to difficulty or worse for those with mobility issues. No one wants to give up his or her bus stop. We’re sure Queens is united on that also and hope the MTA listens when it crafts its “final final” plan.

Drivers trashed again

Bike lanes, bus lanes, plastic poles that spring up overnight, mini speed bumps in the middle of intersections, parking spaces suddenly blocked off and painted over for no discernible reason, restaurant shacks that sure look abandoned — New York City drivers have a lot to contend with these days. And that includes those behind the wheel of ambulances, FDNY rigs and the trucks that deliver all the goodies you buy at the store.

Soon there’ll be something new eating up space, creating more angst and congestion: dumpsters. Oh, they’ll be called something else, like refuse containers, and they won’t immediately be covered in filth, but yes, dumpsters will go in the street in front of apartment buildings soon enough. This is a key part of the mayor’s drive to clean up the city so it will have fewer rats. It’s all very modern and European, so it must be good, right? At least we’ll only be losing 22,000 to 34,000 street parking spaces, fewer than the 150,000 the city initially said. Be glad of that.

It’s interesting how something so vital to the city, the motor vehicle, is so hated now. It’ll also be interesting to see dumpsters plopped in the middle of bike lanes. Ha ha.

Published

MARK

SUSAN

Raymond G. Sito General Manager

Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

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Jan Schulman Art Director

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Jim Berkoff, Beverly Espinoza

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Office: The Shops at Atlas Park 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-201 Glendale, NY 11385

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E-mail: Mailbox@qchron.com

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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

My driveway blocked

Dear Editor:

The 106th Precinct does not give tickets to people blocking my driveway. The cars’ trunks are in front of my driveway. What can I do about this situation? The law in NYC is that they must leave space and they don’t. Please help.

The precinct doesn’t answer their phones, either.

Miriam Rodriguez Ozone Park

DeJoy’s mail delays

Dear Editor:

Re your March 7 editorial “For an accessible JH Post Office”:

Lack of a ramp for those with disabilities isn’t the only problem facing Postal Service customers in Queens. The Kew Gardens Hills Post Office has given a new meaning to the words “snail mail.” My neighbors and I have noticed slower mail delivery over the past few months. Mail that used to arrive in the early afternoon now comes much later in the day. Mail carriers told me the Post Office cut six out of 23 delivery routes and won’t replace workers who leave.

This likely stems from an austerity plan initiated by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy to slash thousands of jobs and close sorting centers nationwide (theguardian.com, Dec. 16, 2023). A

major GOP donor, DeJoy was tapped for the job by President Trump in 2020 despite having no postal service experience. He previously ran a logistics company that was cited by the National Labor Relations Board for “anti-union animus” (The New York Times, Oct. 8, 2021).

Since 1775, U.S. residents have benefited from dependable mail service during wars, depressions, recessions and a pandemic. It should not be derailed by an arrogant boss who won’t return a congresswoman’s phone call. Elected representatives and postal workers union leaders must confront DeJoy and stamp his austerity plan with the words: “Return to sender.”

control of the horrific crime problem in the subways, the mission will be mostly unsuccessful if all they are doing is random bag checks on platforms at the major train stations.

To be sure, NYPD, to its credit, has busted a lot of thugs carrying blades and guns, but unless the additional law enforcement is posted on all the trains, commuters will not feel safe and more, not fewer, bloody attacks will happen.

It would be wonderful if the judges would pitch in and lock up the offenders and repeat offenders.

Kevin O’Lear y Kew Gardens

Hills

Richard Reif Kew Gardens

Do more for safe subways

Dear Editor:

While I support Gov. Hochul calling up 750 Army National Guard troops and 250 New York State Police to assist the NYPD in getting

Free Poland, U.S., Ukraine

Dear Editor:

(An open letter to President Biden)

As Polish-Americans, we thank you for you r commitment to NATO, Poland and Ukrainian independence. We hope the visit of Poland’s President Andrzej Duda and Prime Ministe r Donald Tusk will help strengthen this bond.

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Polish General Tadeusz Kosciuszko and Casimir Pulaski fought for American Independence, and we are pleased that your administration is committed to returning this favor.

As the Kosciuszko Foundation in New York prepares for its centennial next year, we are proud of our history of championing Polish freedom through World War II, the Cold War and today. Over the years, we have awarded tens of millions of dollars in scholarships and research grants supporting Polish culture, science, and sovereignty.

At the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, one of us, KF President and Executive Director Marek Skulimowski, traveled to the Polish-Ukrainian border to deliver urgent aid to Ukrainians fleeing the war. Since then, the KF’s involvement has expanded to encompass multiple projects and initiatives

Over the past two years, we have raised nearly $2 million to support the Ukrainian women and children who fled Russian bombs seeking safety in Poland. We hope the United States Congress continues its support of Ukrainians in their struggle.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a threat to Europe and the free world. We are reminded of a quote from our namesake, Kosciuszko, who said he fights “for your freedom and ours.”

Straight news, no spin

Dear Editor:

It was 43 years ago that legendary anchorman Walter Cronkite signed off for his final time on the “CBS Evening News.” Cronkite manned the anchor desk from April 16, 1962 until March 6, 1981. Watching Cronkite on the evening news was a communal experience in much the same way that listening to President Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s fireside chats on the radio was for a previous generation.

When Cronkite declared that the Vietnam War was unwinnable, President Lyndon B. Johnson knew that he had lost the support of middle America. When Cronkite closed with “And that’s the way it is,” we knew everything that mattered in the world that day.

His presence and voice of calm reason, along with independent, professional, nonpartisan political journalism, are sorely lacking today.

Larry Penner Great Neck, LI

Aiding the vulnerable

Dear Editor:

The recent rise in protests against homeless shelters in NYC communities is understandable, yet the anger seems misdirected. The increase in homelessness in one of the richest cities on Earth is dystopian and a local manifestation of a broader systemic issue in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

Director

Alex Storozynski Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Former President Marek Skulimowski President and Executive

The Kosciuszko Foundation Manhattan

Protect the U.S. flag

Dear Editor:

Our American flag should be protected. This is because being an American is the greatest honor in the world and the flag represents our freedom that was paid for by the blood of thousands of brave men and women.

Now, I am a member of the American Legion Post 103 in Douglaston and also a member of the Catholic War Veterans St. Anne’s Post 1979 in Glen Oaks Village. I am a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served during the Vietnam era and was proud to have done so. As such, I believe our American flag deserves to be protected from acts of desecration and burning at protests through a constitutional amendment. That is why I hope Congress will eventually pass such an amendment.

The flag is important to most Americans and especially veterans. The values Old Glory represents are the same values that our veterans fought and died for. Please, therefore, write to your congressional representatives and ask for an amendment to protect our American Flag.

Frederick R. Bedell Jr. Bellerose

Love is all you need

Dear Editor:

A message of love to the world: Thank you for caring for me, loving me, honoring me. I send you warmth and reverie, and one day we will meet.

Eva Tortora Staten Island

In addition to being victims of their circumstances, vulnerable populations are also victims of government prioritization schemes. For example, since homeless folks have one of the lowest voter turnout rates, their well-being and priorities fall to the bottom of the political priority triage, unless, of course, their existence impedes the neighborhood aesthetics or a candidate’s constituents’ livelihood. Low voter turnout, coupled with the presence of myriad medical conditions, prevents homeless individuals from self-advocacy, making them outcasts. This problem is further exacerbated by resource misallocation and a deeper issue in our society, where problems are patched until they fester and become impossible to ignore. The recent protests over the rise of homeless shelters in the city clearly show that patching the wound of homelessness with underfunded, unsafe shelters is no longer sufficient.

Resource misallocation is not just a local issue. A recent meta-study conducted by the Fund for Global Health, looking at the distribution of USAID funds, found that in the category of nutrition and tuberculosis, less than half of the allocated funds — 37 percent for nutrition and 29 percent for tuberculosis — actually went to direct frontline service delivery.

In the past, Congresswoman Grace Meng has championed the well-being of women and children’s health in USAID programs. I encourage her to utilize her experience to do the same for other vulnerable populations, specifically patients with TB and those in need of nutrition, by advising USAID programs in those categories to spend at least 50 percent of their funds on frontline service delivery.

Issa Khan Corona

The writer is a volunteer advocacy fellow with the Fund for Global Health.

Ariola makes District 32 her first priority

Councilwoman

discusses redistricting, education, pot shops and flooding

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Coucilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) is one of six Republicans on the City Council.

Yet she manages to foster positive relationships with her liberal peers — the mayor’s senior advisor, Ingrid Lewis Martin, even spoke at her inauguration this year.

“I try to remain true to who I am, which is a moderate conservative,” Ariola said during a March 11 sitdown interview with the Chronicle. “I don’t lie about who I am, and I don’t pretend to be something else. And I think that can be respected.”

She said that she can see the need for social programming, and has signed onto bills that some Republicans may not have backed.

stop at the government level — she makes an effort to know her constituents, too.

After redistricting, District 32 gained an area north of Forest Park, adding Glendale into the mix, which was previously overseen by Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth), one of Ariola’s colleagues in the City Council’s Common Sense Caucus. She set out to meet area movers and shakers, and held giveaways for constituents. She’s even planning a summer concert at the Shops at Atlas Park.

the interview

“It was important for me that Glendale residents, when they went out to vote and saw my name — even though I was unopposed — I wanted them to know that they were safely voting for the right person.”

“I don’t have a problem with that, because I see the merit of it,” Ariola said. “And I think that’s how you garner relationships — when they see you’re not afraid to step over to the other side of the aisle and work together.”

She added that she will always vote for what the majority of her constituents believe in. “And they know that, and they respect that.”

Ariola’s relationships with her peers doesn’t

In Ariola’s first term, she was focused on public safety, quality of life and education.

She got more police officers placed in area precincts, allocated money toward domestic violence and youth programs, and made sure DSNY workers “had what they needed.”

“We bought 60 cameras that are now in procurement,” she said. “That should be coming out soon.” The cameras, she said, will help prevent illegal dumping and identify culprits.

would house migrants.

“We always knew the governor was looking at Floyd Bennett Field,” she said. “We had a letter from the governor asking the president to utilize Floyd Bennett. So when [Sliwa] said that he ‘picked Floyd Bennett,’ and ‘I said he lied’ —that’s a lie.”

On the recurrent flooding in her district, Ariola said efforts are being made to mitigate it, including adding dunes, cleaning catch basins more often, building up bulkheads at road ends in Old Howard Beach and changing pipes from the 1900s.

She recently met with the city Department of Environmental Protection, and told officials if they plan ahead when it comes to the area’s flooding, she would fund pumps for the district and find storage for them.

Recently, she has worked closely with DSNY on cleanup efforts around the district.

On education, Ariola said she was able to provide district schools $2.27 million toward improvement in her first term. She also allocated money for Rocket Playground and the Inside Broadway theater program and “led the fight” on adding locked doors and Ring doorbells to improve school safety.

Asked about mayoral control, Ariola said she believes the policy should continue.

“I think it gives us legislators more access to the chancellor, and more input. ... I’ve never really worked with a chancellor that’s been as transparent and available,” she said.

On the topic of the mayor, Ariola said she doesn’t know whom she will support on the ballot in 2025.

“I haven’t even thought about that,” she said. “I’m just focused on District 32, and working with both the mayor and the speaker to make sure we get things done.”

But she does know she wouldn’t vote for Guardian Angels founder and GOP mayoral candidate Curtis Sliwa, whom she has had public differences with in the past.

“And they finally pumped it out in Broad Channel, and we raised a number of streets on the west side,” she said. She added that floodgates are an option, but that they have to make sure they’re designed properly so as to not contribute to the flooding.

On illegal pot shops, Ariola said she supports the Stop Marijuana Over-proliferation and Keep Empty Operators of Unlicensed Transactions (SMOKEOUT) Act, a bill by Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) and state Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) that would enable local municipalities to close the shops. She, alongside Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills), sponsored a resolution calling on Albany to sign it into law.

The two councilmembers also previously collaborated on legislation that holds landlords accountable for renting to the shops. Ariola acknowledged that work needs to be done to ensure the landlords pay their fines.

“I try to remain true to who I am, which is a moderate conservative.”

— Councilwoman Joann Ariola

“He has not made a compelling argument or acted in a way that would show me that he could run this city,” Ariola said.

On Sliwa’s January claim that the auditorium of Our Lady of Grace in Howard Beach would become a migrant shelter, Ariola said, “It was never even on the radar for the Mayor’s Office. And when you have people on the radio saying that it is, I’m worried that it gets on the radar.”

Sliwa claimed last year that Cross Bay Motor Inn, Surfside 3 Motel and Fort Tilden would become migrant shelters.

“I went on the radio with ‘Sid & Friends’ to refute that, because none of those three things were true,” Ariola said.

Later, Sliwa said Floyd Bennett Field

Asked what could be done while the state bill is pending, Ariola said nuisance abatement can be sought, as is the case with Howard Puff Convenience in Howard Beach, which was raided last week.

She told the Chronicle she believes marijuana should not have been legalized, and that she is not in favor of legal dispensaries. She also introduced legislation that would make April 20 “Say No To Drugs Day.”

Ariola also makes supporting public service members a priority. She hosts a Hero Story Hour, in which veterans and members of the FDNY and NYPD read books to children to foster good relationships. She also believes veterans are overlooked, especially those struggling with homelessness, and that they deserve more health benefits.

“We’re finding billions and billions of dollars for people who are entering our borders illegally,” Ariola said. “And our veterans are not getting any of that money.” Q

Councilwoman Joann Ariola discussed important issues and goals for her district during a sit-down interview with the Chronicle on March 11. PHOTO BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE

Povman, 30-year councilman, was 93

Attorney, Dem party leader, stood up to mayors — and sometimes, constituents

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

If you referred to Morton Povman as a longtime fixture in Queens, you might be asked to qualify if you were referencing his three decades representing Central and Eastern Queens on the City Council; his more than five decades practicing law at The Povman Law Firm, based in Forest Hills; or his work in Democratic politics, particularly as a district leader and a member of the John F. Kennedy Regular Democratic Club in Flushing.

Povman died on March 5. He was 93.

“Helping other people has always been something I’ve been happy to do,” Povman told the Chronicle in December 2001, reflecting back on his time on the Council days before term limits removed him from the office he had held since 1971. “Even as an attorney, you are really working for people, but you are being paid. As a councilman, you don’t get paid for everything you do, so you have to love it.”

He was replaced by a newcomer named James Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows), who paid tribute to his predecessor and good friend last week.

“Morty was the ‘Mr. Rogers’ of the Queens political scene,” Gennaro wrote on X. “He had a very soft, welcoming demeanor and was beloved by all. His legacy is marked by his remarkable tenure as the longest serving member in the history of the City Council.”

“When I was a very young staff member @ NYCCouncil Morton Povman was a mover and shaker as a Queens Council Member,” said Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) on X. “My fondest memories are of talking Queens politics with him, and he always made time for us young pols on the way up. May he Rest in Peace!”

As late as 2020, Povman and his wife, Sandra, were displaying awards he had won and touting their dual runs for district leadership positions on facebook.com/votepovman.

Patrick Lanza worked for the councilman for a decade, while his wife, Marilyn, was the office manager at the Povman Law Firm for about 25 years.

“He really was a good man,” Lanza told the Chronicle. “I don’t think you could find anybody who would have a bad word to say about Morty Povman ...

“I don’t know where he found the time. He was a city councilman and had a thriving law office. He was so dedicated to what he was

doing. And, of course, his family life was extremely important to him. His children and grandchildren were a great source of pride.”

The website dignitymemorial.com said he is survived by Sandra, his wife of 66 years; sister-in-law, Helen Povman; sons Michael and Bruce, and their spouses Jennifer and Sharon; grandchildren Benjamin, Martin, Jonathan, Amanda and her husband Zachary Porges, and Matthew and his wife Ariana and their newborn son, soon to be named.

A funeral was held March 8 at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffer Memorial Chapels in Forest Hills. A committal service followed at Montefiore Cemetery in Springfield Gardens.

“My sympathies to the family of my former colleague Morton Povman,” wrote former Councilman Sal Albanese on the memorial page. “I recall spending quality time with him in Israel in the 80’s. He was a gentleman & an excellent attorney. RIP.”

Povman’s 24th District encompassed all or parts of Forest Hills, Kew Gardens, Briarwood, Kew Gardens Hills and Fresh Meadows. He said in 2001 that he thoroughly enjoyed serving. He served under mayors John Lindsay, Abe Beame, Ed Koch, David Dinkins and Rudy Giuliani.

“I accomplished everything I thought was virtually doable and it was a wonderful experience,” he said. “If I had to do it all over again, I would.”

When Povman served as chairman of the Health Committee, he played a pivotal role in keeping East Harlem’s Metropolitan Hospital — now known as NYC Health + Hospitals/ Metropolitan — and other hospitals open, openly taking on the Koch administration.

“Our committee fought the battle against the mayor to keep that hospital and several others the mayor wanted closed. They were

looking to save money and the mayor chose the hospital system. It felt good being able to save the health system from those kinds of attacks.”

In the late 1980s, with the NYPD’s 107th Precinct in danger of merging with another precinct, he was instrumental in saving it.

“We had demonstrations, candlelight parades and car caravans,” Povman told the Chronicle. “We were successful and as a result, a new precinct was built a mile away and it is now the new 107th Precinct.”

Early in his career, Povman also tackled the Samuel LeFrak organization for attempting to build highrises over Willow Lake in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. He called for a rally at Queens College, and 2,000 people showed up.

“We let the mayor and the borough president know we were not going to let that happen,” he said. “We have very limited wetlands in central Queens and this would have destroyed the whole atmosphere of the community and the park. It was a tough battle because the mayor was in favor of it, but we succeeded.”

While Povman also fought plans for a racetrack in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in 1984, he was a key ally of Dinkins in the fight to build what now is Arthur Ashe Stadium for the US Open, despite the measure being unpopular in his district.

“It was a good move. They did a beautiful job and it has attracted people from all over the country and the world,” the councilman said.

Lanza said that was typical of Povman.

“Morty was a principled man, but he didn’t always vote with the masses,” he said. “But I think if you looked back on his record, most if not all of his votes were for the betterment of the community.” Q

QueensWay gets $117M federal funding boost

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

QueensWay, the city’s plan to convert 3.5 miles of abandoned Long Island Rail Road tracks into a linear park, got a massive boost Tuesday with the dedication of $117 million in federal transportation funding to design and construct what is being called the Forest Park Pass segment of the project.

U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), in a joint press release with Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), said the money has been awarded to the city’s Department of Parks and Recreation under the Inflation Reduction Act.

Schumer called QueensWay “an exciting urban trail that will connect a range of neighborhoods, create a linear park and provide new cleaner, healthier transportation options, like biking, jogging and walking paths.

“The QueensWay will provide much-needed green space and a new transportation corridor within walking distance of hundreds of thousands of residents and countless small business-

Schumer, Gillibrand secure DOT cash

es in Central Queens from Forest Hills to Ozone Park.”

Gillibrand, in a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg last November, said many Queens residents have limited access to public parks and open spaces that can be difficult and dangerous to bike or walk to.

“I ... fought hard to make the QueensWay project a reality, and now this more than $117 million in federal funding will help transform this abandoned railway into a beautiful Queens community attraction,” Gillibrand said Tuesday.

The full QueensWay as proposed would be a 47-acre linear park with its northern terminus in Forest Hills near the Metropolitan Expeditionary Learning School on Metropolitan Avenue.

Mayor Adams in September 2022 dedicated $35 million to transform five acres of the northern end.

The Forest Park Pass will include more than

9 acres and extend approximately 0.65 miles from Union Turnpike, through Forest Park, to Park Lane South.

Supporters say the QueensWay will provide public access to green space while acting as a main artery of the borough, connecting six distinct neighborhoods along a safe, off-road connection to 12 schools, seven subway lines, the Long Island Rail Road and numerous businesses.

The elevated rail bed used to be the LIRR’s Rockaway Beach line, which stretched north into Forest Hills and Rego Park. It has not carried a train since 1962. Many sections still have the old tracks and rails, and much of it is overgrown with mature trees and brush.

Many residents and elected officials support a plan called QueensLink, which would rehabilitate the city-owned right-of way in order to restore train service between the Rockways and mainland Queens.

QueensLink proponents say new rail lines can be built to be compatible with a linear park. In 2022, numerous elected officials signed a letter to Gov. Hochul to fund a feasibility study of the proposal, while the City Council passed a resolution asking the Metropolitan Transportation Authority to conduct it.

But Queensway got the funding.

The Trust for Public Land, in remarks included with Schumer’s and Gillibrand’s, welcomed the news.

“With the announcement of $117 million in funding from the U.S. DOT, specifically allocated to the Forest Park Pass section of the QueensWay, a new chapter in our mission unfolds,” the group said. “In strategically linking these diverse neighborhoods via Forest Park Pass, TPL reaffirms its commitment to better connecting culturally rich and historically underserved communities with the outdoors. This funding acts as a powerful catalyst, propelling us towards the realization of a vibrant linear park, QueensWay, that spans communities across Queens.” Q

Former councilman Morton Povman died Tuesday at age 93. PHOTO BY STEVE MALECKI / FILE

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Construction Laborer Apprentices Sought

The Local 1010 Joint Apprenticeship Committee will conduct a limited recruitment for 12 Skilled Construction Craft Laborer Apprentices. Applications will be available from March 25 through April 5, 2024 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at:

Local 1010 JAC

17-20 Whitestone Expressway, 3rd floor Whitestone, NY 11357

Applications must be returned to the same offi ce during the above business hours until 1:00 p.m. on April 12, 2024. All applications must be obtained and submitted by the applicant in person. The applications will be available until April 5, 2024 or until 80 applications have been distributed, whichever happens first. Only 80 applications will be distributed, on a first-come basis.

Applicants must be:

• at least 18 years old; and

• physically able to perform the work required of a Skilled Construction Craft Laborer and endure strenuous exertion and exposure to the elements.

Applicants should note:

• no specific education level is required; however, a higher level of education may increase the applicant’s score and placement on the rank list.

• proof of education, if any, must be submitted at the time of the interview to be considered.

• a minimum physical condition test will be scheduled at the time the completed application form is submitted.

• the minimum physical conditions test will consist of:

- wheeling a wheelbarrow loaded with 150 pounds to a flat distance of 300 feet;

- lifting a 90-pound cement bag and carrying it to a distance of 100 feet,

- carrying framing wood for a distance of 100 feet, - digging a one square foot hole to a depth of one foot; and - mixing sand and cement, as instructed.

For further information, applicants should contact the 1010 JAC at (718) 886-3310.

Local 1010 JAC is committed to provide equal employment opportunity to all people without discrimination because of race, gender and/or gender identity or expression, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, ethnicity, disability, veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, partnership status, pregnancy or child birth (including related medical conditions), genetic information, reproductive health decision making, marital or parental status, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, unemployment status, or on any other legally protected basis.

Pharmacy surrenders baby formula product

Settlement deal worth $250K: OAG

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

State Attorney General Tish James has secured more than 9,500 cans of powdered baby formula worth approximately $200,000 from Walgreens, the second-largest pharmacy store chain in the country.

The acquisition of the formula, along with a $50,000 penalty, constitute a settlement deal with the pharmacy chain after the company was investigated for illegally raising the price of baby formula during the height of the pandemic in 2022, the Office of the Attorney General said Tuesday.

In 2022, Abbott Laboratories — one of the nation’s three major baby formula manufacturers —halted production at its Michigan plant following the Food and Drug Administration’s discovery of potential bacterial infection Cronobacter sakazakii in products made there. In February 2022, Abbott issued a voluntary recall for certain variations of its Similac, Alimentum and EleCare products.

The Queens Chronicle reported on the national supply chain shortage that followed and hit the entire borough hard.

Paula Utilla, an international board-certified lactation consultant with Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, said that a lot of mothers are utilizing the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, which does not cover liquid baby formula, so the shortage of powdered formula was particularly damaging.

By May 2022, James had issued a warning to more than 30 retailers across the state to stop overcharging for baby formula. An OAG investigation was later triggered by consumer reports that Walgreens was overcharging for at least 20 infant formula products. Walgreens raised prices by more than 10 percent on some products, 20 percent on others and by over 70 percent in one case, according to the OAG.

James said baby formula is a main source of nutrients and absolutely essential for thousands of vulnerable infants and that during the pandemic, families were panicked and struggling to feed their babies.

“... For Walgreens to take advantage of this crisis and jack up formula prices is not only illegal, but downright shameful,” James said in a statement. “The thousands of baby formula cans secured by my office will go directly to help New York families who need it most. Today’s agreement should also send a clear message that my office will not tolerate any company that attempts to price gouge our state’s consumers.”

The 9,564 cans of baby formula Walgreens gave up will go to the Met Council, Buffalobased FeedMore WNY and the Buffalo Prenatal Perinatal Network in that city. The nonprofits will distribute the formula to New Yorkers in need.

The Met Council is a large supplier to kosher pantries, including that of the Queens Jewish Community Council in Forest Hills, and a

spokesman for the latter organization told the Chronicle it is in active talks with the nonprofit to learn more about the kosher status of the product that was allocated.

Charline Ogbeni, a lactation consultant, doula and the CEO of Supporting Our Mothers Initiative, a milk depot that recently opened in St. Albans, said that while she is more in support of breastmilk and breastfeeding to combat scenarios like the alleged price-gouging incident, she also believes that families that choose to go the formula route should have access to the powder at a fair market rate.

“These concerns have come up frequently during our free virtual weekly infant feeding pregnancy and postpartum support groups,” Ogbeni told the Chronicle via email. “We have some families who are currently pregnant wondering if the shortage will happen again.

“I am proud of Attorney General James’ advocacy on behalf of our tiniest New Yorkers. We hope families will not be taken advantage of like this again.”

Similar to Ogbeni, Utilla, whose JHMC is a certified baby-friendly hospital, said that breastfeeding is still the best option when it comes to nourishing infants, but if parents do use formula, they should be careful in how they prepare the product.

“Breastfeeding can be a struggle, it can be difficult,” Utilla told the Chronicle. “We found that even in our hospital post-Covid, even across the state, we are delivering earliertermed babies and they have difficulties with breastfeeding.”

Utilla said moms should first exhaust options with learning how to use a breast pump from a baby-friendly hospital, hand expressing milk, getting help from a breastfeeding clinic, getting help from a breastfeeding warmline (similar to a hotline) or getting donor milk — with baby formula as the last choice.

“There are 100,000 ingredients inside of human milk and there are 40 inside of formula, but the formula is adequate enough if we are unable to breastfeed,” Utilla said.

Utilla said the companies that contributed to the recalls must label their bottles better.

“We want to make sure we are preparing formula correctly so that we cannot have these

continued on page 18

The state Attorney General’s Office secured 9,564 bottles of baby formula from Walgreens in a settlement deal for alleged price gouging on Tuesday. PHOTO BY SOPHIE KRICHEVSKY

Sam Ash closing its Forest Hills location

Music giant shutting 18 stores across the country; area musicians feel loss

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Customers at the Sam Ash music store in Forest Hills were looking eagerly for bargains last Saturday. But they also were lamenting the impending closure, as it is one of 18 stores that the 100-year-old company announced will be shutting down this spring.

Eric Zolov of Forest Hills was there with his family, every one of them a past customer in the last 10 years. And he said Forest Hills is losing an important touchstone.

“We’re not professional, but we’re all musical,” Zolov said of himself, his wife and children. “We’ve bought flutes, pianos and guitars here. First, we lost our bookstore when Barnes and Noble closed. How do you have Forest Hills without a bookstore? Now we’re losing our music store.”

No specific closure date was available for the Forest Hills hills site, located at 113-25 Queens Blvd. and messages left at the store and its corporate media email address were not returned. The company’s corporate offices are located in Hicksville, LI.

The company, founded in Brooklyn in 1924, presently has 45 stores in 16 states from New England to Florida to California. Published reports state that its store on 34th Street in Manhattan also is set to close.

Signs advertising sales of up to 30 percent

adorned the Forest Hills store, and shoppers inside were eyeing instruments, sound equipment and anything else on the shelves and display floor.

Tom LaRocca said he is a regular for consumable products that require regular replacement.

“I came to see what might be here,” LaRocca said. “I’m a musician and a music teacher. I don’t think I’ve bought any instruments here, but I’ve bought guitar strings, picks, reeds, cables. I’m bummed that they’re closing.”

The business still is run by the fourth generation of the original Sam Ash’s family, and, according to the company history on its website, has been an example of the American dream.

The company states that the seeds were planted in 1907 when 10-year-old Sam Ashkynse came to the United States at age 10, the same year his future bride, Rose Dinan, left Russia at age 3.

Living in Brooklyn, Sam was a violinist and eventually had his own orchestra. But he and Rose soon decided that a different aspect of the music business could be more financially rewarding.

When Sam died in 1956, Sam Ash had become a favorite of musicians and instrument manufacturers. A small store opened on 48th Street in Manhattan in the 1960s in the music district and eventually became a superstore. Q

Business looked to be brisk last Saturday at the Sam Ash music store on Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills as customers looked to take advantage of liquidation sale prices, and to say goodbye to a neighborhood institution.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON

Tax break deadline March 15

Claim benefits for SCHE, DHE and HEAP by Friday: PEU

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

Seniors or those with a disability have until March 15 to apply for the tax exemptions for their home, according to the Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit.

During an outreach event at St. Albans Library on Tuesday, PEU staff provided information about the Senior Citizen Homeowner’s and the Disabled Homeowner’s exemptions, property tax breaks for seniors or people who are disabled who own one-, two- or three-family homes, condominiums or cooperative apartments.

The PEU, the city’s outreach wing, also shared information about the Home Energy Assistance Program, which can provide heating or cooling aid and equipment repairs and replacements, and also helped homeowners with vacant rental units navigate the process of renting to voucher recipients, which allows them to have access to government-backed rental income.

To learn more about HEAP or rental vouchers,

visit nyc.gov/PEU.

“The Public Engagement Unit is focused on connecting eligible homeowners with resources to help keep them in their homes,” said Adrienne Lever, PEU’s executive director, in a statement.

“With the March 15th deadline quickly approaching, we want to be sure that all eligible New Yorkers know about homeowner tax exemptions. Other programs

may also be available to you as well, so if you need help, don’t delay. PEU is committed to supporting all New Yorkers — tenants and homeowners.”

Recent changes in city and state law make the SCHE and the DHE exemptions available to homeowners with a combined annual income of $58,399 or less.

To get further details on the tax break visit the city Depart-

ment of Finance’s property tax benefits web page.

HEAP, which assists with heating bills, also comes with a Clean and Tune benefits, which help people repair or replace furnaces, boilers and other heating equipment. The benefit is based on the cost incurred to replace the primary heating source and other essential heating equipment. People can get up to $4,000 for a repair and up to $8,000 for a replacement.

For more details, call the city’s Human Resources Administration’s Infoline at (718) 577-1399 to request an application or apply online by visiting nyc.gov/ accesshra. To get further details about HEAP, visit nyc.gov/hra.

“Our team is committed to helping New Yorkers access these valuable benefits and we will continue working with our partners to ensure that everyone who is eligible can take advantage of these important exemptions,” said Preston Niblack, commissioner of the Department of Finance, in a statement. Q

Baby formula

continued from page 16

recalls and that moms are getting better education if we have to use formula,” she said. “Moms think we can open up a bottle of Poland Spring and we can use the formula lukewarm.”

If a baby is less than three months of age, the water must be boiled, then cooled safely before it is put in a powder formula to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, said Utilla.

“Some of the recalls that happened is that they found bacteria,” Utilla said. “We also have to talk about how to make sure that we are preparing the formula correctly, so if, for example, she got that recall of that bottle of formula and she already gave it to her baby, she shouldn’t have to be as worried if she prepared it correctly.

“... Sterilizing the bottle is also important.”

Utilla said that not every medical center is Jamaica Hospital, which has lactation staff and warmline.

“Patients didn’t know where to go,” said the lactation expert. “They would grab a bottle of formula and the WIC was closed and they were having a lot of issues there. We learned a lot from Covid.”

Utilla also said that the baby formula that is prepared must be basic.

“The nutrients they put in there is so important to make the baby thrive,” she added. Q

Nadine Morency-Mohs, left, a Jaymore Realty broker, Home Support Specialist Monica Lang of the Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit, and Gerry, a Southeast Queens homeonwer.

PHOTO COURTESY NYC

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What makes charter schools different from traditional public (also called, district) schools?

Because they are independent from the NYC Department of Education, charter schools have greater flexibility in the way they operate. Charter schools are free to develop their own academic program and student supports, choose staff, set educational goals, offer a longer school day and school year, and establish their own standards for student behavior. Charter schools are required to raise student achievement. If they do not meet their performance goals they can be closed.

What are the benefits of enrolling my child in a charter school?

Charter schools provide an alternative to district schools. Charter schools allow families the opportunity to choose a school based upon what they think will work best for their child.

Many charter schools also tend to:

• emphasize not only the core subjects of English and math, but also the arts, science, and languages;

• have longer school days and year;

• be smaller overall, providing a more personalized approach to education.

Are charter schools successful?

New York City charter schools outperform and outgain traditional district schools in both ELA and math annually. Black and Hispanic charter students also continue to outperform their district peers. In math, Black charter students are more than twice as likely to be profi-

Educating our students to be independent thinkers and lifelong learners

cient than their district peers, and Hispanic students are nearly twice as likely to be proficient.

For example, in the Bronx, where many charter schools are concentrated and continue to grow, charter student performance far exceeds that of district school students. In 2022, 54.7% of charter students scored proficient on New York State’s ELA exam compared to just 33.2% for district students. The same holds true on the State Math exam, where 44.2% of charter students scored proficient as compared to 20.9% of district students. Overall, 13 of the top 15 schools on New York State’s ELA (2022) exam were charter schools. For more information on how charter schools performed on state assessments, see our data dashboard.

get a better understanding of the instructional strategies they use to support the academic success of English Language Learners.

Do charter schools admit students who are receiving special education services/have IEPs?

Do charter schools charge tuition?

No. They are free public schools.

Do charter schools have any religious affiliations? No.

Do charter schools serve English Language Learners?

Yes. All charter schools have outlined English Language Learner (ELL) supports in their authorized charter agreement. A majority of charter schools provide sheltered English instruction and English as a New Language (ENL) support, while a few offer dual language programs. Families should speak directly to school leadership to

Yes, charter schools work to meet the goals and objectives outlined in students’ Individualized Education Plans (IEP). However, just as with district schools, not every charter school provides an appropriate placement for every child. A majority of charter schools have appropriate placements and programs for children with less restrictive environments written into their special education program, while some offer a wider array of placements and services.

What is expected of charter school students?

As each charter school is independently run, expectations differ from school to school. Most charter schools are committed to providing their students with structured and safe environments where they can focus on learning. Many charter schools require their students to commit to a set core of values centered on respect, hard work and achievement. Some charter schools also require students to wear uniforms.

How do I know which charter school will meet my child’s needs?

To help families determine if a charter school is the right fit for their child, they should read about a charter school’s mission and education program by visiting its website or calling or visiting the school directly. The Charter Center

provides contact information for each charter school in our map feature. After reviewing your top charter school choices, we recommend families attend an open house or schedule a tour with each school. Not only does this enable families to get a better feel for the school’s staff and culture, but they also provide the opportunity to ask questions in person.

Can parents get involved in charter schools?

Yes, almost every charter school encourages family involvement in the school and in their child’s education. Some charter schools have parent representatives on their boards; others work with families through a Parent Association.

How do I enroll my child in a charter school?

There are three easy ways to apply to a charter schools.

1. Use the Common Online Charter School Application to apply to multiple schools at once. The application is open from October 1 through June 30 each year.

2. Visit the school’s website directly to apply online or download a hard copy of its application.

3. Stop by the school to pick up an application or call the school and ask staff to mail you an application.

How do I find a charter school?

The Charter Center map feature allows you to search for schools near your home address, in your Community School District, by borough and more.

— Courtesy nyccharterschools.org

Our World Neighborhood Charter Schools

Free Public Charter Schools

Escuelas charter publicas gratuitas en Queens

SD 24, SD 27, SD 30

• Rigorous academic curriculum Plan de estudios riguroso

• Spanish beginning in Kindergarten Español comenzando en Kindergarten

• ICT program/SETTS

Programaa de Co-enseñanza integrada

• Study of world cultures Estudio de las culturas del mundo

• Physical Education, Arts & Music integrated into curriculum Educación física, arte y música integrado en el currículo

• Social-emotional learning Aprendizaje socioemocional

• Robust technology program Programa tecnológico robusto

• Free breakfast & lunch Desayuno y almuerzo gratuitos

Educar a los alumnos para que sean pensadores independientes y aprendices de por vida

https://www.owncs.org/admissions/how-apply

E-mail us at / Correo Electrónico: ADMISSIONS@OWNCS.ORG

Facebook: facebook.com/OWNCS

Instagram: instagram.com/owncs_offi cial

Twitter: twitter.com/OWNCS

For more information: Please contact

OUR WORLD NEIGHBORHOOD CHARTER SCHOOLS

Our World Neighborhood Charter Schools better known as (OWN), are located throughout Queens, NY. At OWN, we offer a nurturing environment for young learners, focusing on active inquiry, experiential learning, and social justice. Our students become independent thinkers and lifelong learners, thriving in a supportive community.

OWN is a non-sectarian, tuition-free public charter school that celebrates diversity. Our programs and admissions are open to all, fostering a welcoming atmosphere regardless of background.

ten Pillars of a Positive Community. These core values play an important part in building and supporting our school culture. By teaching and modeling these traits, teachers help create a strong learning environment. Our teachers guide students toward knowledge through imaginative exploration and the mastery of skills. We urge you to visit our schools to see our mission and philosophy brought to life.

For more information: Please contact the Admission Office at 646-509-3702 or 646-415-2775 or you can email us at admissions@ owncs.org.

FORTE P REP H IGH S CHOOL OFFERS A WORLD -CLASS A CADEMIC P ROGRAM

We are thrilled to announce the opening of Forte Preparatory High School, our brand-new high school in Queens, New York. Building on the success of our award-winning middle school (Forte Preparatory Academy in Elmhurst), Forte Prep will now provide an exceptional education to students in grades 5 through 12, starting with a brand-new ninth grade program in Glendale this fall!

We are proud to serve a rich, culturally, and ethnically diverse community. OWN has identified

Our web address for how to apply is; www.owncs.org/admissions/ how-apply

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Our middle school has been recognized as one of the best in the state, and we are committed to maintaining that same level of excellence at Forte Prep High. Our experienced faculty and staff will ensure that every student receives a challenging and engaging education that prepares them for success in college and beyond.

At Forte Prep, we believe that every student has the potential to achieve great things. That’s why we offer a rigorous curriculum that challenges students to think critically, communicate effectively and collaborate with others. Whether they are interested in STEM, the humanities or the arts, our students will have access to a wide range of courses and extracurricular activities that will help them explore their passions and develop their skills.

We are excited to open our doors to the community and welcome the next generation of leaders to Forte Preparatory Academy. We hope that you’ll join us starting in fi fth grade as we embark on a new era for education in Queens.

C HARTER S CHOOLS S ECTION

Sharpton calls for more Black jobs

At First Baptist of Corona, civil rights leader presses mayor to tackle issue

by Oona Milliken Chronicle Contributor

The Rev. Al Sharpton, noted civil rights leader and Baptist minister, joined community, religious and political leaders in speaking out against Black unemployment on Thursday. Sharpton called on Mayor Adams to host a summit to address the issue.

“This is a moral issue,” Sharpton said.

He spoke during a press conference held in one of the areas hardest hit by layoffs during the pandemic, East Elmhurst, at the First Baptist Church of Corona. Black unemployment in New York City sits at 9.4 percent while white unemployment hovers around 3.8 percent, according to a study by the Center for New York Affairs.

Sharpton said he is concerned with the high unemployment rates, particularly in the outer boroughs like the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens.

“It is imperative that we deal with outerborough Black unemployment when the focus has been too much on Manhattan,” Sharpton said. “It is time for an aggressive fight. We intend to work with the mayor and others to stand and help be a part of that fight.”

to be at an unacceptable level. Much has to be done,” Thompson said at the press conference.

The plea for more progressive hiring practices comes as Queens is set to host major new construction projects, such as the building of New York Football Club Stadium in Willets Point, the proposed Metropolitan Park Project, as well as the continued development of LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy airports. Speakers at the event pointed to those developments as opportunities to drive up Black employment in the area.

Thompson and others referenced Metropolitan Park as a particularly exciting opportunity as the project — which would be located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park and estimated to cost $8 billion — has the potential of providing 15,000 new jobs. Metropolitan Park is the gaming, hotel and entertainment complex, with some green space, that Mets owner Steve Cohen hopes to build where the Citi Field parking lots are, if he wins one of Albany’s downstate casino licenses.

Others at the conference pointed out how Black New Yorkers were hurt by the pandemic. Pre-pandemic, the share of Black and white New Yorkers who listed themselves as “out of school, out of work,” only differed by 3 percentage points, according to the CNYA study. In 2023, that gap grew to 7 points. It is not just unemployment: As of 2022, 19.4 percent of Black New Yorkers were living in poverty in comparison to 9.9 percent nonHispanic white people, according to a study by the Center for Latin American, Caribbean, and Latino Studies.

Former NYC Comptroller Bill Thompson said there is a long road ahead in fighting the high unemployment levels in the Black community.

“After the pandemic, jobs in the private sector have been gained. But again, the gap between people of color and others continues

Saeeda Dunston, chief executive officer at Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, said she is frustrated with the lack of progress in improving the lives of Black people in New York.

“At some point, we have to stop saying, ‘These are disparities.’ It’s almost as if we expect it to be, as if it is OK,” Dunston said. “As if every time we show up at a press conference, we have to talk about how far Black people are behind. It is no longer acceptable.”

Dunston is not the only one who is frustrated, according to CBS correspondent Marcia Kramer. At the event, Kramer requested comment on the political implications of recent polls showing Black voters moving from the Democratic Party to the Republicans due their needs not being met.

“Do you think a lot is riding politically on your call for full employment equity at a time when the political world is in turmoil?” Kramer said.

In response, Dunston said Black politi-

cians and community leaders in the area were pressuring private companies and public elected officials to change the status quo of Black New Yorkers.

“We are at the table, and we are demanding. This is what we are here for,” Dunston said. “We’re not doing this in support of anything but the community.”

State Assemblymember Jeffrion Aubry (D-Corona) said the number of Black voters leaving the Democratic Party is marginal, but that Black voters are free to vote as they please.

“A majority of Black people still choose Democratic principles but when white people decide to be Democratic, we don’t ask, ‘How come?’” Aubry said. “They choose, just like we chose, and we have the right.”

Regarding Sharpton’s call for Adams to do more in driving down Black unemployment, Amaris Cockfield, a City Hall spokesperson, said in an email that the mayor is working on creating more jobs for people of color.

“Under Mayor Adams, New York City has a record number of private sector jobs recovered [sic] the nearly 1 million private sector jobs lost during the pandemic two years ahead of schedule,” Cockfield said. “But the mayor has been crystal clear that we can’t continue to have high unemployment in our Black and brown communities, which is why this administration created the Office of Community Hiring, which will create 36,000 jobs annually for low-income New Yorkers and those who live in economically disadvantaged communities.” Q

Port Authority says ‘Look at LGA now!’

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Ten years ago, then-Vice President Joe Biden said LaGuardia Airport looked like a “third-world” facility; in 2018 the Airports Service Quality survey of passengers found it to be “the worst airport in North America.”

Six years and an $8 billion rebuild later, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is celebrating a stark reversal of fortunes, as the newly released 2023 ASQ survey, conducted by Airports Council International, found LGA to be the best airport in North America serving

between 25 and 40 million passengers per year.

Officials from the Port Authority and LaGuardia’s management team celebrated the news Monday on the departure level of the airport’s new Terminal B.

“There is no better judge of our new airports than the passengers who use them, which is why the ASQ award for best airport going to LaGuardia is so meaningful,” said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole in a press release from the PA. “Across the region, the Port Authority is working with its partners to create the best-in-class experiences that

passengers have long deserved at LaGuardia, Newark’s Terminal A and at JFK International.”

PA Executive Director Rick Cotton said what once was an aspiration has now become a reality.

“When we started out on our $8 billion transformation of LaGuardia, few believed we could create the world-class airport our region deserves,” Cotton said. “But the ASQ award proves that seeing is believing.”

“The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards is a unique achievement of airport

customer experience excellence as selected by passengers themselves,” said ACI World Executive Director Luis Felipe de Oliveira.

Ryan Marzullo, managing director of New York construction at Delta Air Lines, said the carrier’s participation and the results show its commitment to passengers.

“It’s been more than a decade since Delta committed to growing — and winning — in New York, and we couldn’t be happier to see LaGuardia’s transformation from worst to best airport in its class in only a few short years,” he said.

Q

The Rev. Al Sharpton addresses Black unemployment at an event in East Elmhurst, joined by Saeeda Dunston, chief executive officer at Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, state Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry and Helen Arteaga, right, chief executive officer at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst. Among the speakers was former city Comptroller Bill Thompson, left. PHOTO BY OONA MILLIKEN

Documents to bring to your tax preparer

In many parts of the country, April marks a return to warm temp eratures, landscapes marked by b looming foliage and perhaps even a colorful flower or two. April also signals tax season, a notion that may elicit different reactions than warmer weather and budding plants, particularly among those who do not anticipate receiving a tax refund.

According to the Internal Revenue Service, the deadline to file a 2023 tax return is Monday, April 15, 2024. Individuals who file more complicated returns or those who simp ly don’t have the time to file on their own typically look to tax preparation p rofessionals to ensure their returns are filed correctly and on time. As the tax deadline draws closer, taxpayers who work with tax preparation professionals can make that partnership go more smoothly by ensuring they bring along these necessary documents and details to their appointments.

• Social Security numbers: Individuals who are filing as single or jointly with a spouse will need to list the Social Security numbers of each person on the return. Taxpayers with dependents will need to provide the full names and Social Security numbers of each dependent as well as their own Social Security numbers.

& Finance

• Identification: A copy of a form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, also must be included in a tax return. The identification confirms a person’s identity and the name on the ID provided must match the name associated with the Social Security number provided.

• Income statements: Tax preparers need a copy of each taxpayer’s W-2 form, which employers must provide by the end of January. Taxpayers with more than one job must provide a W-2 from each

employer. Additional income statements, such as forms indicating gambling winnings or retirement account distributions, also must be provided to the tax prep pro. Taxpayers who have such income should contact their tax preparation pro prior to their appointment to determine which additional income form they need to file.

• Tax deduction documents: Tax deductions save taxpayers money, and taxpayers may be eligible for a range of deductions. For example, homeowners who finance their home purchases with mortgages will receive a 1098 form from their mortgage provider each January. That form is a mortgage interest statement that can help homeowners reduce their tax obli-

gations. Donations, student loan interest payments and college tuition costs are some additional potential deductions. Charities, student loan servicing firms and colleges or universities should provide tax deduction documents by the end of January, and taxpayers can turn these forms over to their tax preparation professional so they earn all eligible deductions.

• Receipts: Some expenses are eligible for tax deductions. Taxpayers can contact their tax prepa-

ration professional to determine i f any medical bills, business expenses, charitable contributions, or additional expenses are deductible. Receipts may be required, and individuals are urged to hold on to any receipts they might be able to use to earn a tax deduction.

Tax season has arrived, and taxpayers are urged to provide all relevant documents to their tax preparers to ensure their returns are filed correctly and on time. Q

— Metro Creative Connection

The Astoria Music Collective, founded by Miguel Hernandez, describes itself as a community-based grassroots music program centered around a diverse and eclectic collective of musicians. Hernandez, in a 2022 interview with the Chronicle, detailed how he

are friends indeed, as Astoria rocks to benefit Meezy

spent his time booking bands and songwriters, promoting events and communicating with artists.

He said at the time, “I would like to be able to do this for as long as

Now, the community he loves is trying to help him in a time of need.

As detailed in a GoFundMe organized by his partner, Jennifer Perney, Hernandez was rushed to the hospital on Christmas Eve 2023 with debilitating pain from a sepsis infection. After surgeries and an extended hospital stay, Hernandez is still on the mend, with more procedures on the horizon.

Hernandez is self-employed and

doesn’t have health insurance. To help with medical bills, the Astoria Music Collective, in partnership with the Shillelagh Tavern, is hosting Muzic 4 Meezy: A Benefit for Miguel Hernandez, this Saturday, March 16.

“Miguel is the beating heart of the Astoria Music Collective,” Joe Rayome, a member of the collective, a friend of Hernandez and one of the benefit’s organizers, told the Chronicle. “And he’s been very supportive to everyone, regardless of genre. That’s one of his talents — being so open, accessible, supportive and available. ... It’s why so many people are rushing back to help him out.”

JW Farrell, a friend of Hernandez and a performer, recalled meeting him and witnessing his kindness right away.

“Just off the bat, he was one of the most embracing figures I’ve ever met. We formed a pretty fast friendship, And then, for years, he was always a champion of my band.”

The event promises a big day of music, with 18 solo artists and five bands scheduled to perform. There will also be a raffle, with the grand prize being a new Yamaha F335 guitar that will be used on stage by the performers throughout the benefit.

continued on page 29

To

JWFarrell a friend ofHernannddez

1

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King Crossword Puzzle

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

‘Nurse’ Greta may have been kissed in Woodside first

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

40

50

52

53

54

55

58

21 Hearing thing

38 Secondary route

41 Concerning

42 Bargain

43 Perry’s creator

44 Noncommittal answer

46 Pleasing

47 Salinger girl

31 Covert agent

36 Seem

37 Taunting laugh

48 Marsh plant

51 Tram load

Answers on next page

Greta Zimmer was born in Austria on June 5, 1924. Her parents, Max and Ida, concerned about Austria being under Nazi control, decided to send three of their daughters to America and a fourth to Palestine for their safety and survival. Greta arrived in New York on Dec. 30, 1939 on the ship Volendam. Her aunt Bertha Langmeiler, a dressmaker with two daughters and a son of her own, unselfishly opened her door for Greta to join her family at 47-47 46 St. in Woodside.

The home of Greta Zimmer at 47-47 46 St. in Woodside in 1945 when she lived there — and was famously kissed in Times Square, in not the most famous photo of the event but an alternative by U.S. Navy photographer Victor Jorgensen.

When Greta was 21 and a dental assistant (not nurse) her life changed forever on V-J Day, Aug. 14, 1945, when sailor George Mendonsa kissed her in Times Square. The moment was captured by Life magazine photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt. It became an iconic symbol of joy over the end of the war, known all over the world as “The Kiss” — one of the most famous photographs of the 20th century. Navy photographer Victor Jor-

gensen also got a shot of the moment. Zimmer married Dr. Mischa Friedman in 1956. They had two children, Mara and Joshua. She died at 92 on Sept. 8, 2016. The couple rest at Arlington National Cemetery. An assistant undersecretary at Veterans Affairs, RimaAnn Nelson, recently ordered Eisenstaedt’s photo removed from all VA premises as inappropriate. The VA secretary reversed the move after a backlash. Q

NATIONAL ARCHIVES PHOTO, RIGHT, VIA WIKIPEDIA

Art fellows showcase their ‘Evolution’ at JCAL

by Naeisha Rose associate

editor Spring is almost in the air and what better way to kick off the season than the opening of a new art showcase?

At the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, the “Evolution” exhibit, which features the work of five emerging and minority artists, will start with a reception on Saturday, from 5 to 8 p.m.

The pieces on display include work from the artists’ past, new work they created during their 10-month fellowship in the ARTWorks fellowship and a faux living room with reused materials, according to JCAL.

LisaMaria Maya of Astoria, Anisa Li-APing of Rego Park, Jaimee Todd of Sunnyside, Issa Cabrera of Woodside and Alexander Bustamante of Jackson Heights are the cohort chosen by a jury to participate in the Artist Residency Training fellowship, where they had the opportunity to better hone both their artistic and entrepreneurial skills through a series of workshops, seminars and collaborations, said a JCAL spokesman.

Maya, the daughter of Puerto Rican and Spanish parents, uses mixed-media as a way of dealing with her anxiety and finding beauty through brokenness. Li-A-Ping, a first-generation Guyanese American, is a

traditional and digital artist who has had her work featured at the Streams Art Gallery in Hong King. Todd is a photographer, digital collagist and painter whose work shines a light on breast cancer survivors and the Flint, Mich. water crisis. Cabrera creates

functional pieces through ceramics. Bustamante is a multidisciplinary artist with work at the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute, among other institutions, according to JCAL.

To learn more about the artists, their work

and related upcoming events, visit jcal.org.

The cohort worked under program manager and curator Lisa Wade, a distinguished artist-photographer and longtime member of the Southeast Queens Artist Alliance who hails from St. Albans, said the JCAL spokesman.

“When the time came to prepare for the exhibition it was clear that the title would be ‘Evolution’ and to support this theme the gallery will be divided into three spaces,” Wade said in a statement. “The first gallery will house works newly inspired, the second gallery will house works from the past, and the third space will be artworks housed in a mock living room with upcycled components.

“The third space in particular will expose our audience to art that moves from the gallery space to the home space.

“We look forward to sharing the Evolution experience with the community.”

JCAL will have an artist meet-and-greet on March 22, an artist talk on April 13 and an interactive art-making workshop with the cohort on April 27.

“Attendees can get involved with it,” said the spokesman about the workshop.

The exhibit, which will have a closing reception on May 3, is located at 161-04 Jamaica Ave. Q

Astoria Music Collective to host benefit for founder

continued from page 27

The venue, the Shillelagh Tavern, holds special memories for the group.

“During the pandemic, Miguel was running an open mic through the Astoria Music Collective and we would gather on the sidewalks outside [of the Shillelagh Tavern] in masks once we were all allowed to be outside again,” Rayome said. “We’d have like, 30, 40 people show up and social distance outside in masks in the cold, because every-

Crossword Answers

thing else was closed.”

While the objective is to raise money for a friend in need, the event’s organizers promise a good time.

“The number one goal is to raise awareness to the GoFundMe and help Miguel with medical bills,” Farrell said. “But it’s also going to be a really fun day. There’s just so many talented performers playing.”

“We want it to feel like more of a celebration than this dire situation, because the fact of the matter is it is very serious,” Rayome said. “He’s facing more surgeries in the upcoming weeks. He’s out of work and he’s going to be out of work for the foreseeable future. And as we all know, the cost of living is sky high.

“So this isn’t necessarily just a one and done situation — the GoFundMe will remain active. The need will remain there. There’s talk of other artists wanting to do more benefits down the line, and continue to support him the way he’s always supported the rest of us.”

Muzic 4 Meezy: A Benefit for Miguel Hernandez is this Saturday, March 16, from 3 to 11 p.m. The Shillelagh Tavern is located at 47-22 30 Ave. in Astoria. There will be no

The Astoria Music Collective, in partnership with the Shillelagh Tavern, is hosting a benefit concert Saturday to raise money to cover the hospital bills of its founder, Miguel Hernandez, center, who remains in serious condition. On the cover: Collective members Joe Rayome, left, JW Farrell and Tom Cordell rock out on stage and, inset, Hernandez at the mic.

cover charge, but attendees are encouraged to scan a QR code on the event poster that will lead to the GoFundMe.

Performers include Beecher’s Fault, Billy Conahan, Tom Connor, Farrell, Sara No H, E.W. Harris, Jacob Henry, Grace Leckey, Lolux, Jo Malbec, John Mervini, Sam

Rasiotis, Rayome & Co., Ellie Rouge, Christopher Sayre, Jeannie Skelly, Tom Smollins, Patrick Stevens, Annie Stone, Strangely Enough, Sweet Magma and Andrew Sydo.

For more information, visit tinyurl.com/ Muzic4Meezy. To donate to the GoFundMe, visit gofund.me/ebb3dc42. Q

LisaMaria Maya, left, Anisa Li-A-Ping, Leonard Jacobs, the executive director of Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, Jaimee Todd, Issa Cabrera and Lisa Wade, curator of the “Evolution” exhibit and program manager of the ARTWorks fellowship at JCAL. One more artist, Alexander Bustamante, is also part of the exhibit. PHOTO COURTESY JCAL

PHOTOS COURTESY JOE RAYOME

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York

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN, Plaintiff, vs. COLLEGE POINT ASSOCIATES, Defendant. Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated May 22, 2023 and duly entered on May 30, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the outside steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY on April 5, 2024 at 10:30 a.m., all that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 3919 and Lot 1. Said premises may also be known as No # 122 Street, Queens, NY. Approximate amount of judgment is $3,740.42 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index #709014/2019. The Referee shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 policies concerning public auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term website. Charlane O. Brown, Esq., Referee The Law Office of Thomas P. Malone, PLLC, 60 East 42nd Street, Suite 553, New York, New York 10165, Attorneys for Plaintiff

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT- COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ABFC 2004-HE1 TRUST, ABFC ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004HE1, Plaintiff, AGAINST FELICIA SAMUELS, et al. Defendant(s)

Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered on January 8, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on April 12, 2024 at 12:15 PM premises known as 15516 115th Drive, Jamaica, NY 11434. Please take notice that this foreclosure auction shall be conducted in compliance with the Foreclosure Auction Rules for Queens County and the COVID 19 Health Emergency Rules, including proper use of masks and social distancing. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Block 12193 and Lot 0014. Approximate amount of judgment $671,024.36 plus interest and costs. Premises

Notice of Formation of BLEUMD AESTHETIC NYC LLC

Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/02/2024. 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: JEISSON ARDILA, 79-19 ROOSEVELT AVE., APT 3R, FLUSHING, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, BANTAM FUNDING II, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. UNITED ASSETS CORPORATION USA, ET AL., Defendant(s).Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 7, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the outside steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on April 12, 2024 at 11:15 a.m., premises known as 1142 Welling Court, Astoria, NY 11102. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 506 and Lot 60. Approximate amount of judgment is $854,910.06 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #712227/2020. The Referee shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 policies concerning public auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure’s Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term website. Richard M. Gutierrez, Esq., Referee Polsinelli PC, Amy E. Hatch, Esq., 600 Third Avenue, 42nd Floor, New York, New York 10016, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Asda Homes LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 1/30/2024.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 111-50 143rd St., Jamaica, NY 11435. General Purpose

THE CITY OF NEW YORK

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORATION

DIVISION OF BRIDGES CONSULTANT PROGRAMS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The City of New York has Request for Proposals available for qualifi ed Consulting Engineering Firms interested in the following Proposed Contract.

Project or Contract Title:

Request for Proposal – Total Design and Construction Support

Services for Foster Avenue Bridge Over BMT Subway (BIN 2-24315-0) and Newkirk Avenue Bridge Over BMT Subway (BIN 2-24314-0), Borough of Brooklyn

Contract No. HBKA24315 & HBKA243140

PIN: 84124BKBR643

Expected Contract Term: 2920 Consecutive Calendar Days starting from the date of the Notice to Proceed.

Description of Services Required:

The services to be procured is Total Design and Construction Support Services for Foster Avenue Bridge Over BMT Subway and Newkirk Avenue Bridge Over BMT Subway Borough of Brooklyn

A Pre-Proposal Conference (Optional) has been scheduled for March 27th, 2024, Time: 10:00 AM through Zoom. Proposers who wish to attend the Zoom Conference meeting can access by using the Zoom Link provided in the “Prepare RFX” Section - SETUP Tab - Pre-Proposal/Pre-Bid Conference Section in PASSPort.

This Procurement is subject to participation goals for Minority-Owned Business Enterprises (MBEs), as required by Section 6-129 of the New York Administrative Code. The M/WBE goal for this project is 30%.

This Request for Proposals (RFP) is released through PASSPort, New York City’s online procurement portal. Responses to this RFP must be submitted via PASSPort. To access the RFP, vendors should visit the PASSPort public Portal at https://www.nyc.gov/site/mocs/passport/about-passport.page and click on the “Search Funding Opportunities in PASSPort” blue box. Doing so will take one to the public portal of all procurements in the PASSPort system. To quickly locate the RFP, insert the 84124P0009 into the Keyword search fi eld. To respond to the RFP, vendors must create an account within the PASSPort system if they have not already done so.

Release Date: March 20, 2024

Pre-Proposal Conference: March 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM

Submission of Request for Proposals are due on or before 2:00 PM on April 22, 2024

Notice of Formation of DAEDALUS TCG LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/04/2024. 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: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 8330 AUSTIN STREET UNIT 150277, KEW GARDENS, NY 11415.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of DESIGNS BY DASH LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/08/2024. 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: THE LIMITED LIABILTY COMPANY, 13010 95TH AVE, SOUTH RICHMOND HILL, NY 11419. 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

Howard Beach/Lindenwood, 3 BR, 1 1/2 baths. Call owner for details. 718-521-6013, leave a message.

Old Side, Howard Beach, 1 large BR, large formal LR, eat-inkitchen, full bath. All utils incl, $1,800/mo. 1 small pet allowed. Credit check req, $20 fee. Call 929-409-1672 or 917-880-8001

Notice of Formation of DGPJ32, LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/14/2022. 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: LEGALINC CORPORATE SERVICES INC, 1967 WEHRIE DR, SUITE 1 #086, BUFFALO, NY 14221. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of FIRST STEPZ DAYCARE LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/15/2024. 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: REPUBLIC REGISTERED AGENT SERVICES INC, 54 STATE STREET, STE 804, ALBANY, NY 12207. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Houses For Sale

Howard Beach, Elegant Brick

Colonial. Pvt dvwy, 4 BRs, 4 1/2 baths. Top fl—Master w/en-suite, 2 BRs, 1 full bath. Main—Custom kit, LR, & FDR, den & 1/2 bath. Full fin bsmnt, sep ent w/2 rms & 2 full baths, pved yar w/in-ground pool w/jacuzzi. Call for appt. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Open House

Howard Beach, Sat 3/16, 12pm-1:30pm, 98-12 162 Ave. Charming Colonial Home. All updated, 3 BR, 1 1/2 bath. Wraparound deck, 4 car dvwy, EIK, XL LR, split CAC, Low Taxes. REDUCED $799K, Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Howard Beach, Unique Doll House. Fri, 3/15, 4pm-5:30pm, 102-10A 160 Ave. Mint cond, raised ranch. 2 BR 1 1/2 bath, new porcelain tiled fls. Tankless water heater system, vaulted ceiling in kitchen w/skylight. Evaluation certificate. Asking $499K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

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

Maintenance Quality Control Assurance Testing and Inspection

E-PIN 84123B0025

This Competitive Sealed Bid (CSB) is being released on 3/18/24 through PASSPort, New York City’s online procurement portal. Responses to this CSB must be submitted via PASSPort and Bid Date will be 4/24/24 at 12pm. To access the solicitation, vendors should visit the PASSPort Public Portal at https://www.nyc.gov/site/mocs/ passport/about-PASSPort and click on the “Procurement Navigator.” This will take you to the Public Portal of all procurements in the PASSPort system. To quickly locate the CSB, insert the EPIN 84123B0025 into the Keywords search field. In order to respond to the Competitive Sealed Bid, vendors must create an account within the PASSPort system if they have not already done so. This procurement is subject to M/WBE participation goals, the M/WBE goals for this project are 30%. DOT will hold a Prebid Conference on 3/27/24.

Any inquiries concerning this Competitive Sealed Bid should be directed by email to agency contact nkumar@dot.nyc.gov, under the subject line E-PIN: 84123B0025.

Eric Adams, Mayor Ydanis Rodriguez, Commissioner

Energy Assessments involve a detailed examination and evaluation of your home to determine which energy saving and weatherization enhancements, such as insulation and air sealing are required. They involve tests such as:

Combustion effi ciency and safety tests to ensure your heating system’s optimal operation

Inspecting walls, attics or roof cavities for insulation

Use of thermal imaging, and blower door testing to assess draftiness and verify the correct placement of insulation

When homeowners combine proper whole home insulation with thorough air sealing, they can expect to:

1. Achieve reduced energy bills.

2. Enjoy greater temperature consistency throughout your home.

3. Reduce the strain on heating and cooling systems.

4. Enhance indoor air quality.

5. Experience year-round comfort in your home.

B SPORTS EAT

College hoops week

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

I cringe when I hear anyone refer to that old warhorse cliche “New York City is the mecca of basketball,” because it has been patently untrue for at least 40 years, if not longer. Very few current NBA players are from the five boroughs. The same can be said for the top 25 ranked college basketball teams.

Having said that, New York City is getting national attention because it is the site this week of three college basketball tournaments that will determine which schools get to be part of the NCAA Men’s College Basketball Tournament.

The St. John’s University Red Storm has had an uneven season under Rick Pitino, who is finishing his first year as the team’s head coach. The conventional wisdom going into this year’s Big East tournament was that the Red Storm would have to get to the third round at Madison Square Garden, scheduled for Friday night, to get a March Madness bid. It has been a long time since that has happened.

The Atlantic-10 Conference will once again be competing with the Big East at the other NBA arena in town, downtown Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. While the A-10 has never produced an NCAA champion, some of its teams have made deep runs in the tournament. The Atlantic-10’s local college team, the Fordham Rams, is a longshot to win the title this year.

The Ivy League started to have a tournament featuring its four best teams only a few years ago. This will mark the first time it will be held at Columbia University’s Levien Gym. Unfortunately, the Columbia Lions, who have not stood atop the Ivy League standings since 1968, will not qualify to compete for the Ivy League slot in the Big Dance. How Lions Head Coach Jim Engles keeps his job after seven seasons of absolute futility is one of life’s great mysteries.

Yale, Princeton, Cornell and Brown will vie for the Ivy League title. Had Dartmouth qualified there would have been a ton of national media on the Columbia campus. Last week, the Dartmouth men’s team announced it was forming a union so that players would both get paid, and have health benefits provided by, the New Hampshire university. This marked the first NCAA team to formally vote to unionize. It should be noted Ivy League players do not receive athletic scholarships, and tuition certainly is not cheap, so I can understand why the Dartmouth players took the stand they did.

The Ivy League Women’s Basketball Tournament will be taking place at Levien Gym as well. Columbia, my alma mater, thanks to Abbey Hsu, the Ivy’s answer to Caitlin Clark, will be one of the four teams competing for the championship. Q

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