Queens Chronicle South Edition 03-30-23

SOUTH QUEENS EDITION

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

SPRING SHOWERS

35th annual Holi festivities return to Richmond Hil l

METS PREVIEW Section

PAGES 18-20

THE

OUTDOORS

When school’s out, so are the kids, in APEC nature classes

SEE qboro, PAGE 25

PHOTO BY MICHAEL CHAIN

The annual Holi, or Phagwah, parade and celebrations returned to Liberty Avenue in Richmond Hill this weekend, with the traditi onal colors thrown among the joyous crowds. The event was hosted by the Phagwah Parade of New York Inc. and attendees included city, state and federal o fficials.

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

The Adams administration on Monday proposed mandating that residents separate their yard waste from garbage prior to collection so it can be composted.

Under the policy, residents would put their yard waste outside on their recycling pickup day in either a two-ply, wet-strength-stock paper bag capable of holding between 30 and 55 gallons or in 13- to 55-gallon rigid containers; either should be clearly labeled. Vin Gragnani, a spokesperson for the Department of Sanitation, said clear, plastic bags would also be acceptable.

Yard waste, food scraps and other organic material could also be combined, though they would need to go in one of the rigid containers with a secure lid for collection.

Leaves, flowers, twigs and grass clippings often serve as a foundation for composting. That same logic was applied when Mayor Adams announced Queens would be the first of the five boroughs to have borough-wide composting, as its large street tree population and ample green space could produce plenty of yard waste. Should the new proposal take effect, it too would be rolled out in Queens first. The DSNY estimated that could be as early as June, with the remaining boroughs being phased in over the next 18 months.

Since the DSNY has rulemaking authority when it comes to how material is set out for collection, agency spokesperson Joshua Goodman said via email, the plan would not go before the City Council. It would, however, be subject to a public hearing, which is scheduled for April 27 at 10 a.m.

But the department did not seem to think the rule would be a very controversial one;

Goodman likened it to separating materials for recycling.

“New Yorkers naturally separate this material outside the home, you don’t bring it in and mix it with your trash, so we anticipate it will be an easy transition,” he told the Chronicle via email.

“It doesn’t take much extra effort to do and it is environmentally correct,” agreed Henry

Euler, president of the Auburndale Improvement Association, in an email.

Angela Miskis, whose group Abuela Neigborhood Maintainance has spearheaded cleanup efforts in Southeast Queens, said the move “makes sense” given the Adams administration’s push to expand curbside compost citywide by the end of 2024. That announcement was a dramatic shift from the mayor’s plans to nix the program’s growth last year.

Coastal Preservation Network President an d College Point resident Kathryn Cervino sai d she is “thrilled” about the idea.

“It’s a total waste to have grass clippings and branches going into a landfill when they could make a valuable resource,” she said. Cervino questioned, however, whether the policy ought to apply to the city’s parks and hire d contractors, as well, as they often gather large sums of organic waste.

The rule’s written proposal notes that it was not included in the department’s agenda fo r this fiscal year, as it had not been conceived o f at the time.

Asked about funding and whether the agency would need to make new hires for the initiative, the DSNY said additional staff will not be required, as the rule would be enforced just as recycling is, with DSNY supervisors an d enforcement agents writing summonses when necessary. Q

The Adams administration is proposing that

it be mandatory

for residents to separate yard waste from garbage prior to collection. PHOTO COURTESY KATHRYN CERVINO / COASTAL PRESERVATION NETWORK / FILE

Chief updates civic on ATV plans, smoke shop enforcement and more Crime in the 106 among city’s lowest

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

Assistant Chief Kevin Williams, commanding officer of Patrol Borough Queens South, had some good news to share at the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic meeting on Tuesday.

Queens South has had the largest reduction in crime in the first quarter of the year out of the eight patrol boroughs, with a 5 percent decrease, and the 106th Precinct ranks 73rd out of 77 precincts in overall crime.

“There’s only four that are doing a better job, statistically, than us,” Williams explained.

Therefore, he said, residents should not fear too much for their safety and he does not think that a private security patrol, which was floated by the community before interest proved lacking, is necessary. “Part of the reason why I’m here is because I read the papers ... I understand there’s a level of concern here in Howard Beach in regards to crime,” he said, continuing, “I can’t make decisions for you but I will say that I don’t think it’s necessary.”

He continued, “I have other precincts that have many more problems. But again, I’m not a resident here in Howard Beach, so, you know, the most I do, I come get Starbucks and I leave,” he joked. As long as he doesn’t doublepark while doing it, some in the crowd quipped.

Quality-of-life concerns remain a priority, Williams said. As summer approaches, ATV and dirt bike enforcement will start earlier. Before the meeting, he had an hourlong phone call, he said, with the chief of patrol and all the borough commanders on the citywide issue.

“Last year, you know, we took a couple of losses,” he said, with packs of riders marauding through the Rockaways and southern Queens.

An attendee asked about problems with smoke shops selling marijuana, including a deadly shooting at one on March 18 in Richmond Hill within the 102nd Precinct.

Smoke shops are open under the city Department of Consumer Affairs and Worker Protection, Williams explained, so the city Sheriff’s Office has civil enforcement powers that the NYPD does not have. The nuisance abatement law is another option, he said.

“We are reaching out to these owners of the smoke shops to encourage them to make their stores less vulnerable,” he added. “I’m not trying to go all the way back to the ’80s and Plexiglas everywhere, but I think in that ... ‘space’ that it would best serve them.”

Williams said he hopes some news on the Richmond Hill shooting can be shared soon.

In other police matters, Capt. Jerome Bacchi, commanding officer of the 106, said he will speak to his midnight commanders about a complaint of a man defecating in the early morning hours on Cross Bay Boulevard.

Lt. John Gherardi spoke of the recent thefts of airbags from Hondas. Thieves do it so quick, he said, ripping out the entire airbag and ignition system in 30 seconds, before police would even get the call about it happening. Gherardi recommended using steering wheel locks. Also discussed at the meeting was the budget negotiations underway in Albany.

Civic Co-president Phyllis Inserillo said the office has been getting calls about Gov. Hochul’s preliminary budget plan that would force municipalities to expand their housing stock by 3 percent downstate and rezone a halfmile radius around every MTA train and subway station, among other measures.

The deputy chief of staff for Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Rockaway), Jason Greenberg, noted that it wasn’t in either of the one-house budgets and that a compromise to instead offer a monetary incentive for development could be included. “The assemblywoman is of the mind that localities, meaning the community boards in this case, should retain all the rights of their zoning,” Greenberg said.

Inserillo provided an update on the negative Howard Beach reference in a recent “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” episode. Representatives from the show again visited the office of Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) last Thursday and cited First Amendment rights but said they would take the feedback back to the producers.

The civic’s annual Hop n’ Treat event is this Saturday and money raised will go toward a new flagpole at the 9/11 Survivor Tree site. Q

SLA fines Blend, grants conditional license despite community protest Hotspot allowed to stay open, for now

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

The State Liquor Authority upped a fine but has granted a conditional license for the Blend Lounge, allowing the controversial nightclub, which has garnered much attention in South Richmond Hill, to stay open — for now.

Attorney Argilio Rodriguez appeared with licensee Mohamed lmamudin and his son, manager Shazeem lmamudin, at the SLA’s March 22 board meeting and argued that the Atlantic Avenue club has implemented numerous safety measures, including hiring a new security company.

“What are they doing?” SLA Commissioner Vincent Bradley interjected. “We have assaults that happen out front, we have shootings that are happening out front. You’re right, some of it probably was unrelated, but some of it was clearly related.”

An NYPD incident report on the location from 2022 is extensive, Bradley noted. It includes five assaults between January and October of last year. Then, on Oct. 17, three days after a nightlife meeting with police, a shooting left one man dead.

Multiple summonses include one for after-hours consumption, failure to maintain a security guard license and hookah without a license.

Community Board 9 sent a letter to the SLA in October

requesting Blend’s license be revoked.

“We tried our best to keep the community safe, to have their license revoked, and I think the community board did all it could,” board Chair Sherry Algredo told the Chronicle. “It was in the hands of the SLA and we believe that the SLA dropped the ball on this decision.”

She said the board is disappointed with the outcome and added, “The sad thing is that it will take another incident to get it closed and we don’t want to see anybody else harmed.”

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) also sent a letter relaying citizen concerns and the 102nd Precinct’s report.

“I made an effort to speak with him,” Mohamed Imamudin said of Addabbo at the hearing. “He called me back last Friday and he said I should take things very seriously and work in cooperation with the board and the precinct and I’m doing everything I can to save my business and to make a living.”

His son added that he has an “open” relationship with the captain of the 102.

“Well that’s helpful ... I hope,” said Bradley.

Another SLA board member noted, “There’s obviously someone who’s watching you because it’s very, very rare that we would get a letter from a senator like that.”

The SLA board countered the original $6,500 penalty with

$10,000.

“There is two pages of stuff here and a letter from the state senator,” said Bradley. “I guarantee you the first one that’s going to be on the phone if something happens ... is the state senator. That will be it.”

Juliet Ganpat is a resident who has led efforts to call attention to the club. She said the 11419 community is outraged. “The SLA is playing with fire,” she said. “It’s only a matter of time before something goes wrong again.”

The group of opponents is working on a petition and figuring out what can be done next, she said.

NYPD Assistant Chief Kevin Williams provided crime updates at the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic meeting. Co-president Phyllis Inserillo shared other local concerns. PHOTOS BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF

Blend Lounge GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE

Spring showers of color at Holi parade

The annual Phagwah Parade returned to Richmond Hill on Sunday, and with it the customary colorful powders and springtime joy.

The parade honors the Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist holiday of Holi, or Phagwah as it is known in the Guyanese community. Holi is a celebration of the arrival of spring, new beginnings and good over evil.

The parade kicked off at Liberty Avenue and 133rd Street in front of Sybil’s Bakery and ended with a cultural program at Phil Rizzuto Park.

The event is organized by the Phagwah Parade of New York, Inc. and sponsored by the Federation of Hindu Mandirs and Arya Spiritual Center.

Hundreds participated in the Festival of Col-

ors. The NYPD Police Band and Desi Society were present as well as community groups like the Jahajee Sisters, an Indo-Caribbean gender justice organization, left at center, and, not seen, the Caribbean Equality Project and Northwell Health. Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar is seen at center in the middle row. To her right is Assemblyman David Weprin, left, Borough President Donovan Richards, and Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, with parade organizer Romeo Hitlall, second from right. Below is U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer with a selfie taker. Also at the event were state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr., Mayor Adams and Councilmember Lynn Schulman.

— Deirdre Bardolf

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL SHAIN

Commish says moving inmates to boro jails now would be ‘impossible’ Reality of Rikers remains divided

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) remains steadfast on the closure of Rikers Island by 2027 but some members of the Queens delegation as well as the Mayor Adams administration are less convinced.

“I don’t think there’s a way for it to be done,” Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) told the Chronicle.

Last Thursday, the Council held a preliminary budget hearing for the Committee on Criminal Justice and the city Departments of Probation and Correction testified.

Ariola asked Correction Commissioner Louis Molina if, given the fact that the city jails population is nearly double what would fit in the borough-based jails, it would be possible to house them there.

“If we are at today’s number whenever borough-based jails would open or if that number is higher, then it would be physically impossible to house all those individuals within our jail system if our capacity was at 3,300,” Molina answered.

“We would need to come up with alternative solutions of where those individuals would be housed. Now, we could get to a place where we can see declines in the population,” Molina continued.

He said two things are needed: for the adju-

dication of justice, which is under the control of the state, to be faster and for more hospital capacity for those with mental illness.

“Just recently, we had someone who was waiting to be sentenced and that defendant was in our custody for six years for an attempted murder case,” said Molina. “And when you have almost a thousand people charged with murder in a backlogged court system, then the flow of those defendants is not quick. So ... we are thinking about what are going to be the alterna-

tives if our jail population continues to stay high. And the other thing we’ve talked about a lot this afternoon is mental illness. If the state does not increase the capacity to be able to treat mental illness, and if we’re going to continue to designate via the courts mental health patients with the designation of criminal defendant, then they are a justice system responsibility. If we want to treat them as hospital patients, then we need hospital capacity to do that.”

Molina has said in the past that the jail popu-

lation could, in fact, rise by 1,000 people by next year.

Speaker Adams offered broad ways of decreasing the population at Rikers. City law approved under former Mayor Bill de Blasio requires that the jails on the island be closed and replaced by 2027.

“It will require leadership from throughout our government — the administration, the Council, the court system, prosecutors, public defenders, service providers and various city agencies,” Adams said in her opening remarks. “We must come together to expand pretrial services, mental health diversion and treatment programs, re-entry programming, supportive housing, and more.”

Adams added that the pretrial system must be revamped and not a replication of what exists on Rikers. “This is not just about changing locations,” she said.

There is also doubt that the borough-based jails will even be finished in time. Molina attributed much of that to supply chain issues due to the pandemic and war in Ukraine.

Ariola added that money is an issue. “As for cost effectiveness, borough-based jails would never be finished in the timeline proposed.”

She believes an amendment to the law requiring Rikers to close will have to be proposed. Though talks are not yet underway, they will be in the “near future,” she said. Q

Rikers Island is supposed to close by 2027 but the borough-based jails may not be done in time and the inmate population is double what would fit in them. PHOTO BY ANTHONY O’REILLY / FILE

P

Support the bill that would support this newspaper

With most bills in Albany that this page comments upon, the reasons are principled, practical or both. Most taxes shouldn’t be raised because people are fleeing the state. Guns should be strictly regulated because their use visits horror upon society. Charter schools should be supported because they offer choice and many do a great job.

When it comes to Senate bill S625A and Assembly bill A2958A, principles and practicality again reign. But there’s no denying that self-interest does, too.

The twin measures are the Local Journalism Sustainability Act, which would provide tax credits to support the hiring of local reporters and an income tax credit for subscribers.

In year one the bill would allow for a 50 percent tax credit on all newsroom salaries up to $50,000 per employee (for a maximum of $1 million per year) and a 30 percent credit for the next four years. It also would give a personal income tax credit for subscribers, up to $250 annually. Even for the smallest newspapers, this could be a windfall.

Newspapers have been decimated in recent years, with the remaining ones getting gobbled up by conglomerates that come in and cut jobs and homogenize content. Queens used to have many more weekly papers competing against each

other than it does today. Several of those that remain used to be independent but are all part of one group now, with many common stories. The Queens Chronicle stands on its own as it always has and it remains free for the reader thanks to our advertisers. We have a limited number of subscribers, who do pay to have the paper delivered; many are former Queens residents who want to keep up with the news here. Our revenue comes almost completely from advertising.

But the model is not what it once was, not for us and not for any of our competitors. There are fewer small, independent advertisers and more institutional ones. Fewer Joe’s Hardwares and more Major Hospital Systems.

So what? Why should you care? Because you’re not necessarily going to learn in the big daily papers or on the TV news that some state lawmakers want to legalize transit strikes; that a string of South Queens air bag thefts have mostly targeted Hondas; that an Assembly bill to allow a casino next to Citi Field has no Senate companion yet; that dozens of dogs rescued from the meat trade in East Asia met their new companions at JFK Airport last week; or that the St. Mary’s Drama Guild in Woodside needs volunteers for its upcoming production of “The Sound of Music.” All this

LETTERS

Never again

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Dear Editor:

This has been a sad week for Forest Hills where we have been subjected to finding swastikas at our residences, schools and houses of worship. A swastika is a symbol of hate, and this is the only way it can be perceived when you see it etched in NYC, especially in a heavily Jewish area like Forest Hills.

As appalling as it was for me to discover a swastika, as I am sure it was for my fellow community members, it was even more appalling to see that some of our community members did not express the expected outrage at these heinous acts but tried to justify and normalize them: How can we assume without evidence that this was anti-Semitic and was not used as an ancient Hindu sign in light of the upcoming Hindu festival? Or we live in a big city where things like this happen and if it terrorizes you, then this city is not for you; or it could have been misinformed kids blindly following some haters.

These reactions are more outrageous than the act itself because once we start making excuses and normalizing this, we are no longer standing up against anti-Semitism and hate. I know that we are better than this, we must be.

Today a swastika is used toward Jews; tomorrow it can be used towards some other undesirable group, just like it was during the Holocaust. If we are serious about the words

and much more is in our various print editions this week.

You get the idea. As it says on the top right of page one, the Chronicle is Your Community Newspaper.

You might say, other industries don’t get favored tax breaks! Sure they do. Within the planned 2024 budget are a $700 million film production tax credit; a $92.5 million tax credit for musical and theatrical productions in the city; and many other grants and disbursements.

Meanwhile the costs of newsprint, ink and distribution are all jumping up. Remember former President Trump’s tariffs on Canadian products? It turns out those include the newsprint our plant in Long Island City uses. The cost skyrocketed and there were shortages.

Community newspapers aren’t perfect; no one knows that better than us. But we give you genuine news that has been checked out, not rumors that may or may not be true; we contribute to social cohesion by keeping people connected to their neighborhoods; and we bring issues to your attention that you didn’t know were there. Isn’t all that worth some limited tax breaks that would amount to barely more than a rounding error in a budget of nearly $230 billion? Tell us if you agree — or not.

THE EDITOR

never again, then let’s act like it and be outraged when we see a swastika, no matter whom it’s meant for. There is no excuse for it, no alternative explanation, no downplaying it, no matter who does it. If we stand united against antiSemitism and hate, then the ugly history will never repeat itself.

Irene Raevsky Forest Hills

Bus stop benches needed

Dear Editor:

I am a resident of Flushing House on Bowne Street in Flushing and find it seriously unfair that riders of the Q13 and Q28 buses have access to bus stops that have benches for people to sit on when waiting for buses while riders of the Q12, Q15, Q15A and Q26 on Roosevelt Avenue and all the routes on Main Street and the immediate area don’t. This is especially unfair

to the members of our center and the surrounding area who use assistive devices and have difficulty standing for a long time.

Also, why is it that many of the token booths in the subway are open but unstaffed? This is a good reason why there is so much fare evasion in the subway.

The MTA and our city and state lawmakers need to get off their respective you-know-whats and do something!

James Jagiello Flushing

QueensWay is the way

Dear Editor:

Re “Fight for rails and trails trudges on,” March 23, multiple editions:

My family of four lives within view of the currently overgrown, littered, former Rockaway Beach line, and have for over 20 years. From

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

my backyard I could throw a rock and hit it, and there are many homes in much closer proximity. It’s been an avoidable and embarrassing affliction in our neighborhood for far too long.

Given the lack of available space, the idea of creating what the real estate broker in your article envisions as a “gorgeous, elevated park” alongside an active rail line is ludicrous. It would be about as usable as the bicycle lane that runs adjacent to the Belt Parkway. Her Howard Beach broker’s agenda likely has little to do with enhancing the daily lives of Rego Park/Forest Hills homeowners. Living within window-rattling proximity of the proposed rail line would be a particularly negative experience. In determining this property’s future, one should recognize that no one wants to live next to a thundering transportation artery.

Alternatively, the QueensWay community group intends to transform this underutilized eyesore into a usable green space — walkways, bike paths, landscaped event spaces — to create a “neighborhood backyard,” connecting recreational fields with residential and commercial areas, an activity space and relatively quiet sanctuary for all ages, safely removed from the hectic streets below. This is a rare opportunity to embrace unused NYC green space and develop it to its full potential. I’m happy to see that the QueensWay is making solid progress, and I’m thankful to the numerous politicians demonstrating real support by providing the necessary funding — it will be money well spent. When the highly anticipated “shovels in the dirt” day comes my family and I will be there, showing our support.

Michael Gallagher Rego Park

Shut one library at a time

Dear Editor:

Just when some of us have gotten used to going to the Steinway Library while our Broadway Library branch is closed for renovations, now the Steinway Branch is closing for renovations, too?

That makes two local libraries not available for kids — and everyone — during the summer. Why can’t the renovations be scheduled when the other branch is done? It’s bad enough the Astoria Pool will also be closed this summer.

Maria Lyrist Astoria

Participatory vote a hassle

Dear Editor:

Participatory budgeting is back, but the City Council’s voting system discourages many voters. Do you have a cell phone? No problem, vote now. No cell? Do this, and then that. They will get back to you.

How many kids or low-income people have the patience and access to technology to participate? Some, but not all. After emailing to get an access code, then waiting two days before it arrived, I’ve lost a lot of interest in voting.

It’s like going to your local polling place, and being told to come back tomorrow because you do not own a cell phone. The City Council didn’t set up participatory budgeting like this to exclude many voters, but that is what the system

does. People turn away, forget, lose interest.

Other government agencies have methods to allow immediate access without a cell phone. It is not hard to do. Send the code via voice, or email it.

Finally I got an access code via email on my home computer. However, not everyone can afford a home computer, or even a home phone. For many people getting access is too annoying or difficult. If a voter gets to the door once, open it and let him or her in immediately.

It isn’t hard to make sure everyone can easily vote in the participatory budgeting, but the current system is frustrating. I will not vote — not until everyone can easily do so. For now I’ll stand with the excluded. Others can enjoy their cell experience. Seems like it’s the future.

John Korber South Richmond Hill

Climate and job justice

Dear Editor:

It’s time for annual budget negotiations in Albany, and communities across Queens, from Elmhurst to the Rockaways, are facing flooding as sea levels continue to rise. My family was displaced from our home following Hurricane Sandy and some in Rockaway are still recovering. Three years ago New York passed a flagship Climate Act, the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act, or CLCPA, but it still isn’t fully funded while our communities continue to be devastated by storms like Ida and the coastal flooding in December. Incorporating the Climate, Jobs, and Justice Package into this year’s state budget should be a priority to address climate-related concerns related to health, equity and the economy.

The Climate Act mandates 70 percent renewable energy by 2030 and to get there, we will need a labor force ready to build renewable energy and maintain our grid. Bills in the CJJP will help pave the way for NY to build renewables like wind and solar, while supporting job training and economic development programs. Communities that bear the largest burdens of climate impacts like flooding and heat — typically low-income communities and communities of color — will be prioritized by this law.

But how would we pay for it? The CJJP includes bills that will collect fees on our worst polluters and end fossil fuel subsidies. A budget should reflect our state’s priorities, like protecting the well-being of New Yorkers, not fossil-fuel profits.

We have no time to waste — New Yorkers are no stranger to devastating storms like Hurricanes Sandy and Ida. As a researcher focusing on the health impacts of climate change, I know our health is threatened by future storms and more frequent heat waves that disproportionately impact vulnerable groups like the elderly. Albany must act to fund a healthy future and meet the mandates in our trailblazing climate law.

Jenna Tipaldo Belle Harbor

Answers demanded after dog’s killing

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

A Jamaica Hills family is demanding answers and changes to the system after their family dog got out, was brought to a shelter and euthanized, all in the same day.

Leona was a 19-year-old dog that belonged to Bianey Areiza and her children, Juan and Ericka Leon. On March 12, the pet wandered from the yard and was found by a Good Samaritan who brought her to the Brooklyn Animal Care Center. Her family saw on a Facebook page meant to reunite pets and families that the dog was found and brought to the shelter. They say they provided all the necessary information to retrieve Leona but were told soon after that it was too late.

“My dog was lost, found and killed within three to four hours and I want answers,” said Ericka Leon.

“I thought shelters were a safe haven,” she said Monday at a press conference. “And now I have a different look at it. And it breaks my heart because she was found and taken there with good intentions ... It makes me really sad because the person who brought her there probably doesn’t even know what happened to her.”

The family says they have not been told exactly how soon after

arriving at the shelter the dog was killed.

Councilman Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) has joined the cause, calling for the city Department of Health and Mental Hygiene to conduct an investigation into what happened at ACC, which the city has a contract with to run the shelters.

“This is a grieving family that suffered the loss of their beloved pet, Leona, at the hands of ACC for what has been explained to me as, and what I truly believe was, completely unwarranted and atrocious,” Gennaro said at the press conference at Smedley Street and Coolidge Avenue, near where the pup was found.

He is also calling on the City Council’s Legislative Integrity Unit to ensure the city is on track to meet its mandated goal of a fullservice animal shelter in every borough by 2024.

“When that happens, there will be more capacity throughout the system,” Gennaro said.

“Three centers can only accommodate so many pets. Five centers will certainly accommodate more, and one is left to wonder whether or not the ... modest capacity that currently exists in the three shelters combined led to the expedited euthanasia of this wonderful family pet.”

There are no full-service shelter facilities in Queens or the Bronx.

The ACC says it followed the law in euthanizing Leona before the 72-hour stray hold period was over.

According to the shelter, the dog, who was not microchipped nor had any identification, was found in the middle of the road off Grand Central Parkway and upon intake was spinning in circles and wobbly when walking. A physical exam indicated that she was in a debilitated state, emaciated and suffering from progressive neurologic symptoms, according to a statement shared by a

spokesperson.

“She was minimally aware of her surroundings, non-reactive to stimuli, weak and unable to stand for more than a few minutes before falling,” according to the statement, which continued, “The doctors at ACC do not take euthanasia lightly. It is their job to direct a course that is in the best interest of the animal. In Leona’s case, given her present state and in addition to all the other chronic, debilitating conditions she had (heart disease, blind, deaf, and severe dental issues) the doctors believed her to be suffering.”

But the family argues the dog was not suffering and that her issues were natural with her age.

“Leona was killed for her age,” said Juan Leon. “She walked in that shelter and was discriminated immediately the moment she walked in ... She should have came home to us and she should have died on our terms. Our family should have made that decision when to start her endof-life story.”

And Gennaro argued that, because ACC listed the dog on its own Lost and Found page, it was obvious that it had a loving family and home.

He said it violated its own policy by not waiting 72 hours to give the owners time to reclaim their pet.

“We are not going to bring her back but at least we can change the rules,” Areiza told the Chronicle.

The family is continuing to draw attention to the case with a rally planned for April 15 at ACC headquarters. Juan Leon added they are in touch with lawyers.

“We need answers so that we can bring justice to future pet owners who have to possibly endure something like this,” he said.

Leona predated even his earliest childhood memories. “Part of us is truly gone. She was the first love of my life.” Q

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Leona the dog, was euthanized at the Brooklyn Animal Care Center. Now, her family, at right with Councilman Jim Gennaro, left, are fighting for an investigation into what happened. They held a press conference on Monday. PHOTO COURTESY ERICKA LEON, LEFT, AND BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF

Scala says he wasn’t running in D32 race

Last week, the Chronicle reported that lawyer Mike Scala had dropped out of the District 32 City Council race, leaving incumbent Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) unopposed for now. But Scala contends he was never actually in the race, despite certifying with the Campaign Finance Board as a candidate, raising money, including through a fundraiser, which he said was “for a future race” and having a campaign committee. He issued a statement last week that he decided to not run.

“A campaign committee was formed to begin raising money ahead of a potential campaign,” he wrote in an email to the Chronicle.

“However, I never announced that I was running ... and ultimately made the decision not to run.” Q

Deirdre Bardolf

Need stage volunteers

St. Mary’s Drama Guild, based in Woodside, is seeking volunteers to help stage its production of “The Sound of Music” set for late April and early May.

All kinds of volunteers are needed, including stage crew, such as prompters and curtain openers; production crew, such as set designers and painters; media crew, such as advertising and marketing help; and front-of-house work, such as ticket takers and ushers.

Anyone interested or with questions should email stmarysdramaguild @gmail.com. Q

Hondas targeted for airbags

Police warn after string of break-ins in Howard Beach

by Deirdre Bardolf Editor

First it was catalytic converters, now it’s airbags. Police say a string of car break-ins has left Honda owners with their airbags ripped out.

“Thieves across Queens are targeting Honda vehicles,” the 106th Precinct tweeted last week.

The precinct added that windows are broken to gain entry, and it recommended steering wheel security devices to prevent the crime. Wheel locks can be purchased online and at auto parts stores. The precinct also urged people to call 911 if they see anything suspicious.

PJ Marcel, head of the Howard Beach Dads group on Facebook and an owner of Trackside Collision in Howard Beach, posted photos of the cars that were targeted and said he had six of them in his shop.

“It was 2013 to 2015 Honda Civics within a five-block radius,” he said of the ones around 81st Street and 156th Avenue in

Howard Beach, which also included a Honda CR-V. He added that driver side windows were smashed and that thieves got in without opening the door to bypass the alarm. Broken

windows alone won’t set off many car alarms.

The airbags are easy to remove quickly, Marcel said, but in many of the cases the thieves ripped them out instead

of unscrewing them, making fixes for owners even pricier due to the clockspring having to be replaced. That is the special electrical connector that allows the steering wheel to turn while maintaining connections with the airbag, horn and other devices.

With the cost of a broken window, potentially chipped paint, the new airbag and now the clockspring, some vehicles could even be rendered a total loss by insurance companies.

Marcel said he was baffled at why thieves would go for 10-year-old car parts. It’s illegal to sell used airbags in New York, they carry serial numbers specific to a VIN and they can be found online, anyway, he said.

And in New York State, airbag systems can only be replaced with new systems or salvaged systems that are certified.

“It makes no sense,” said Marcel, adding that maybe they were stolen to ship out of state. Q

Thieves are breaking windows to steal steering wheel airbags out of Hondas, like the one above, according to police. PHOTO BY PJ MARCEL

New arrivals to U.S. are top dogs at JFK

Group saves four dozen pooches from slaughter, brings home for adoption

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Jeffrey Beri is a dog’s best friend.

The founder of No Dogs Left Behind last Thursday accompanied nearly 50 canines to John F. Kennedy International Airport to introduce them to their new forever owners and foster parents after rescuing them from the meat slaughterhouse trade in East Asia.

“We’re getting closer to ending the meat trade every day,” Beri said. “We’ll never stop fighting for these dogs.”

The flight had been delayed for a few weeks, and even arrival on March 23 hit some snags that held it up few hours. But those coming for their new furry friends did not mind the extra wait.

The dogs met their new “hoomans” at The Ark at JFK, an animal care and reception center on airport grounds for animals traveling by plane.

Ann-Marie Roach and Louis Pomerantz of Jersey City were waiting along with Mr. Pickles, an aristocratic mixed breed whose favorite treat is chicken hearts. They adopted him from the organization two years ago and were going home with two more.

“We’re adopting his biological sister, from the same litter,” Roach said. “And our neighbor is going to be fostering his brother. It’s going to be a family reunion.”

A number of others also were repeat adopters from the organization, which now has a center in upstate Canton, where it cares for its rescues.

And the dogs didn’t seem to be bothered by the long flight, this one from East Asia.

Lexi, a mixed breed being picked up by Tina Anderson of Holtsville, NY, looked a little bit flustered and just wanted to be held.

But one malamute — think of a bigger, furrier and also affectionate husky — decided to give Beri and others at The Ark his personal thanks with bear hugs before getting into a carrier for his ride to his new home.

Beri said No Dogs Left Behind sometimes runs into government obstacles in some countries, but that others, such as Turkey, Afghanistan and Ukraine, have actually welcomed their help with caring for the animals, vaccinating and neutering them.

Beri founded the organization in 2016, Prior to that he worked in jewelry design.

All the dogs arrived last week with names, and Beri in some cases called them by their names from their native lands and gave them commands in their native languages. Others had names in English.

Greg and Amy Carrico of Syracuse were on hand with Maddie, a small white fluff of a rescue dog herself, meeting her new big brother, a handsome little guy with a shaggy black coat named Draco.

Alison McNamara and Harmon Pardoe of Brooklyn adopted Winter, a white mixed breed, two years go, and were waiting outside The Ark for another adoptee named Prince

It was love at first site for Kate Marshall and her new golden retriever, Cinnamon, who will be getting a new name.

“I’m calling her Beri,” Marshall said. “For Jeff.” Q

Greg and Amy Carrico of Syracuse, with Maddie, right, were on hand to welcome Draco, left, into their home and their hearts.

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL GANNON

A malamute gives a big hug to Jeff Beri, left, and a member of the staff at The Ark at JFK upon his arrival in America.

Mr. Pickles, a former rescue dog, awaits the arrival of his biological sister and brother with Ann-Marie Roach and Louis Pomerantz.

Kate Marshall’s new golden retriever will be named Beri, after the man who rescued her.

Alison McNamara, Harmon Pardoe and rescue dog Winter wait for a new doggo to arrive.

Tina Anderson’s Lexi looked a little jet-lagged, but was ready to go home.

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An Amazin’ Day at Central Library

Guests get special edition Mets cards from Jamaica institution and meet icons

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

The Queens Public Library’s central location in Jamaica was the first within the library system to open its doors last Saturday morning to well over a hundred people for a specialedition Mets library card ahead of the start of the baseball season this Thursday.

The collaboration was part of an Amazin’ Day event sponsored by the club on March 25, which encouraged fans to go to different venues throughout the city in their Mets gear, take photos with Mr. and Mrs. Met, get autographs with retired players and have a chance to win two tickets to a game at Citi Field as well.

Those who went to the QPL event received a blue-and-orange library card with Mr. and Mrs. Met holding books in front of Flushing Meadows Corona Park’s Unisphere.

The partnership between the QPL and the baseball team led to 649 new card signups and 2,219 conversions from existing cards to the Mets edition across the library system, according to data from Elisabeth de Bourbon, a QPL spokeswoman. The Central Library had 64 new signups and 181 card conversions.

Blanche Hatwood and her husband, Ralph, were the first on line outside at the Jamaica library.

“We’ve been here since 7:15 a.m.,” said Hatwood, a Rosedale resident, as she hugged Mets legend Tim Teufel while outside. The event was scheduled to start at 9 a.m. “We think the library is important to our community ... and I’m here to represent and get my card.”

Sabra Dupass and her daughters Najee Dupass, Mia Dupass and Dena Lewis, of Jamaica, said they were at the event to support the Mets. While her children have been to a couple of Mets games, she hasn’t.

“I would definitely be excited if I

won the tickets,” said Dupass, who has 11 children, 30 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. As she waited for the doors to open she and her daughters took selfies with Teufel and fellow Mets icon William Hayward “Mookie” Wilson.

Daniel Castillo of Jamaica said he was excited that his local library was hosting the affair.

“I follow the Mets’ Instagram pages,” Wilson said of how he learned about the event. “The Mets are the best team. I became a fan after 9/11. That was my first baseball game. There was a famous home run that got New Yorkers excited about something else instead of the tragedy.”

Tim Farrell and Cullen Farrell of Whitestone, Eddie Sciallo of Connecticut and Morris Johnson of North Carolina all came together to get the special-edition card.

“If I win, it will be my first Mets game,” Johnson said.

Natasha Marques of South Richmond Hill proudly showed off her new card as she took photos with the Mr. and Mrs. Met mascots.

“I love reading and I love the Mets,” Marques said. “I thought this was a great community event to be a part of.”

Taha Ali of Forest Hills said his son Raza, 3, is a big Mets fan and he had to get to the library.

“In the next few years I’m thinking of signing him up for Little League baseball,” Ali said. “I’m also planning on taking him to a bunch of games this year too.”

Christina Wong of College Point was happy to celebrate Amazin’ Day.

“I was born and raised in Queens,” said Wong, who lives near the stadium. “Let’s just say I’m not a Yankees

fan!”

Iris Spaight came from Brooklyn with her rescue dog Metsy Shea, who wore a Mets jersey.

“We are very big Mets fans,” said Spaight of herself and her husband, Jim, who are season ticket holders. “We saw Teufel and took a picture with Mrs. Met, but we haven’t had a chance to meet Mookie. We are here to just enjoy the day.”

Metsy, 3, will join his parents for a game on Doggy Day at Citi Field later this year.

Borough President Donovan Richards was in attendance with Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman (D-Springfield Gardens) and QPL

President and CEO Dennis Walcott as he tried to get his book “Kings of Queens,” a book about different Mets superstars by Erik Sherman, signed by Teufel and Mookie.

“I’m trying to relive the glory days of 1986,” Richards said in a Mets cap. “We are trying to bring this championship home.”

Richards loved the diversity of the fans young and old who came out. Walcott was elated by the turnout.

“This is an excellent partnership that we have with the New York Mets,” Walcott said. “It is a great way to reach the community. Our goal is to have library cards for our community and finding different ways to do that.”

Teufel said this was a great kickstart to the season.

“The line is out the door and the fans are ready for the season to start,”

Teufel

said with a huge smile. “If they bring this kind of energy to the ball field it will be awesome to see.” Q

“I love reading and I love the Mets.”

— Natasha Marques

Mets legends Mookie Wilson, left, and Tim Teufel were at Central Library in Jamaica last Saturday with Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman, Borough President Donovan Richards and Queens Public Library President and CEO Dennis Walcott as attendees came to get special edition library cards of the baseball team. Iris Spaight, below, brought her dog Metsy Shea Spaight to the library as she waited to get photos with Teufel and Mookie. PHOTOS BY NAEISHA ROSE

Daniel Castillo, gray jersey, above, was excited to get a special edition library card from his local institution of his favori te team. Tim Farrell, center left, and Cullen Farrell of Whitestone brought along Eddie Sciallo of Connecticut and Morris Johnson of North Carolina to also get their cards. Natasha Marques proudly showed off her card next to Mrs. and Mr. Met.

New bill would clear way for FMCP casino

Could swap 64.5 acres of parkland for upgrades elsewhere, 20 left open

by Sophie Krichevsky

Associate Editor

Mets owner Steve Cohen’s path to building a casino next to Citi Field got off to its official start last Wednesday as Assemblyman Jeff Aubry (D-Corona) introduced a bill that would alienate land west of the ballpark to be used for a casino.

The site, the Mets’ parking lot, is legally part of Flushing Meadows Corona Park, and had been leased to the team back when Shea Stadium was built on the condition that it be used only for the ballpark and cars. That has prevented previous proposals for the site from coming to fruition, including one for a shopping mall in 2017, which the state Court of Appeals ultimately shot down. If Aubry’s bill were enacted, Cohen would avoid the same fate.

In cases of parkland alienation, that land has traditionally been replaced with new green space nearby of an equal or greater amount, acre for acre. In Aubry’s bill, that is one of two options: Alternatively, Cohen’s company New Green Willets could invest the equivalent fair market value of the alienated space into capital improvements on existing parkland. Also, at least 20 acres of the site would be turned into open space.

The land to be alienated in Aubry’s bill could total up to 64.5 acres, with about two-

thirds of it available for development — if New Green Willets selects the capital improvement method.

Asked whether he believes the proposal amounts to a fair trade, Aubry told the Chronicle, “You have to provide what’s available under the circumstances that you are faced [with].” In other words — Queens simply does not have 64.5 acres of land to con-

vert into parkland.

“You’re not going to take housing and make it a park,” he said. “You have to find out where’s the available space in order to accomplish that goal.”

To Aubry, that lack of space should not disqualify the Cohen camp from making a play for a casino license.

“To not do anything and not be able to

move this, you have no application — they have no ability to compete,” he said. Though the Assembly pro tempore said whether Cohen will get one of the three downstate casino licenses up for grabs is an open question, he said, “They should be able to compete. It is a competition, and in how we proposed this, that’s how I thought of it. This is, ‘They’re in the game, and they haven’t been ruled out before the game starts.’”

Flushing land-use expert Paul Graziano was not having that. “It’s one thing for an even swap — which is the typical way that this works,” he said. “But to give away three times as much parkland? There’s no precedent to it.”

Cohen, on the other hand, is happy with the bill. “Steve Cohen and his team are committed to delivering a vision with dedicated green space, year-round entertainment and good-paying local jobs,” a spokesperson said in a statement. “We are supportive of efforts to create a process that does this the right way and makes it possible to expand use of the area beyond just parking lots.”

The bill makes clear that the land would not be alienated for just any casino — it specifies that the site be alienated for a gaming facility through an agreement with New Green Willets, Cohen’s lobbying firm. It also

continued on page 24

Waste Setout Times Change April 1 Send

Assemblyman Jeff Aubry introduced a bill that would alienate the Citi Field parking lot — which is legally parkland — to be used for a casino and accompanying facilities. PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN

METS 2023 SEASON PREVIEW

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

The Mets won 101 games last season, which normally would make 2022 a year for fans to fondly recall. That will not be the case, however, because of the last two weeks of the season, which saw the Mets lose the National League East title to the Atlanta Braves after being in first place for nearly the entire season. The Mets followed that pratfall by losing the first round of the National League playoffs to the San Diego Padres despite all three games being played at Citi Field.

Nonetheless, winning 101 games is nothing to sneeze at. The Flushing faithful are thrilled to have a generous owner in Steven A Cohen, who grew up a Mets fan in Great Neck, LI. He has shown a willingness to invest in his team, much to the consternation of his fellow owners. Thus, there was every reason for optimism with respect to the upcoming season.

Unfortunately, closer Edwin Diaz, who was the best relief pitcher in baseball last year, suffered a torn patella in his right knee following Team Puerto Rico’s win over the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic. Diaz blew out his knee jumping up and down with his teammates during their celebration. Replacing Diaz, who preserved many one-run leads, will be next to impossible.

Another big loss occurred when doctors discovered a benign tumor on left-handed starting pitcher Jose Quintana’s rib cage earlier this month. Quintana, whom the Mets signed as a free agent during the winter, had been complaining of pain in that area when he was on the mound. He recently had surgery and is not expected to return until after the AllStar Game break.

Let’s look at the roster Mets Manager Buck Showalter currently has at his disposal.

Starting pitching

Starting pitching has historically been the Mets’ strong suit, and that still appears to be the case thanks to veteran co-aces Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander. The Mets signed Verlander, who has won the Cy Young Award three times in his career (including last year as a member of the Houston Astros) within days of their homegrown two-time Cy Young winner, Jacob deGrom, opting to join the Texas Rangers for a five-year contract valued at $185 million.

While most Mets fans were hoping deGrom would stay, they were also relieved to be free of worrying about whether the next pitch he threw would cause him to miss the rest of the season. DeGrom missed sizable

parts of both the 2021 and 2022 seasons battling arm issues. He was spectacular, however, when he was healthy enough to pitch.

Aside from Verlander, the Mets’ other big free agent signing this past winter was Kodai Senga, who had been a star in his native Japan. He is known for throwing a “ghost forkball,” which derives its name because it seems to disappear when hitters are swinging.

Jose Quintana’s absence will put more pressure on 36-year-old Carlos Carrasco to repeat the success he had in 2022 as he posted a 15-7 won-loss record and a respectable 3.97 earned run average. It was a remarkable comeback after a disastrous 2021 season where he missed the first half of the season because of a hamstring injury. He was ineffective, to say the least, when he returned to action that August.

Rounding out the starting rotation will be lefty David Peterson who was the Mets’ top pick in the 2017 amateur draft. He has looked good at times, and absolutely awful at other times. He has also had arm issues. Peterson is 27 and this is a crucial season for his development. He needs to show the Mets he is more than just a current version of Jon Niese. He also needs to remain healthy for an entire season and not miss any starts.

Tylor Megill was the Mets Opening Day starter in 2022. He was pitching very well until he was diagnosed with inflammation in his right biceps in mid-May and did not return until September. Even that brief time was marred as he was placed on the Covid-19 injury list days before the end of the regular season. Megill will begin the season at AAA Syracuse.

Gone from the Mets’ starting rotation from 2022 are Taijuan Walker and Chris Bassitt. Walker made the All-Star team in 2021 and then fell apart in the second half of that season. In 2022, he enjoyed a solid first half but tailed off in the latter part of the season although not as dramatically as what happened in the previous year. He signed a free agent deal with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Chris Bassitt pitched very well for the Mets for most of 2022, except for when the Mets needed him the most. He was awful against the Braves as they completed their sweep of the Mets in Atlanta in late September with Bassitt chased by the third inning. Bassitt gave an encore performance in his next start as the San Diego Padres belted him in the deciding Game 3 of the National League Wild Card Series. My guess

is had Bassitt only had one disastrous outing instead of two, he would have remained a Met. He signed with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Bullpen

With Edwin Diaz gone for the year, the Mets bullpen is unsettled, to say the least. While they are all expected to make contributions in 2023, the Mets have had plenty of health headaches with respect to their relievers.

Southpaw Brooks Raley, who was signed as a free agent from the Tampa Bay Rays, has been battling a hamstring injury, but should be good to go when the season begins. Sam Coonrod is a hard thrower who had some good outings for the Phillies the last two years. The Phillies cut him because he never could stay healthy. History appears to be repeating itself as Coonrod, who looked impressive for the Mets during spring training, incurred a “high grade lat sprain” and is expected to miss a good deal of 2023. Meanwhile one of the great names in baseball, Bryce Montes de Oca, who had a cup of coffee with the Mets last year, has a stress reaction in his pitching elbow.

Drew Smith has been in the Mets organization since the summer of 2017 as he came from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for slugger Lucas Duda. Smith has pitched well in small sample sizes for the Mets. This is an excellent opportunity for Smith to be more than just a name on the 40-man roster by doing well in high-pressure situations.

Veteran pitcher John Curtiss, who missed 2022 recovering from Tommy John surgery, has pitched well during spring training. He was not on most Mets fans’ radar screens, but was one of the best surprises for the team in spring training.

Another old pro who should help out is Tommy Hunter who acquitted himself well in limited appearances for the Mets in 2022.

The Mets will be counting on a pair of long-in-the-tooth warhorses, David Robertson and Adam Ottavino, to pitch the ninth inning when the Mets have a lead.

Mets fans would be a little more relaxed about their reliever corps had team General Manager Billy Eppler

experience behind the plate with the Mets’ top minor league club in Syracuse. He also hit poorly in spring training. There is no point risking a jolt to his confidence by having him face major league pitching now. The Mets were smart to send Alvarez to their minor league camp last week to avoid needless speculation about whether he would be on the Opening Day roster. Buck Showalter said it was his hope Alvarez would not be called up to Flushing until September.

Tomas Nido, who is excellent defensively, but a streaky hitter at best, will be Narvaez’s understudy.

Infield

made a modicum of effort to re-sign Seth Lugo. While he was never an All-Star, he was certainly competent and got the job done more frequently than not. Lugo will be pitching for the San Diego Padres this year.

Catcher

Mets fans have been waiting for the top prospect in the Mets farm system, Francisco Alvarez, to be their team’s starting catcher. He was called up in the final days of the 2022 season in the hopes of giving the slumping Mets an offensive jolt, but he struggled just like the rest of the team.

Alvarez will one day be the Mets starting catcher, but it won’t be right now. The team signed 32-year-old exMilwaukee Brewers backstop Omar Narvaez, who has some pop in his bat, to replace James McCann, who was pretty much given away to the Baltimore Orioles.

McCann had become a frequent target of Citi Field boo birds because his hitting was atrocious in his two years as a Met. Ironically, Mets fans can’t blame the Wilpons for signing him as he was the first Mets player acquired after Steve Cohen bought the team in the fall of 2020. Cohen’s acting general manager, Sandy Alderson, chose not to engage with JT Realmuto, who was also a free agent at the time. That decision has haunted the franchise ever since.

Alvarez is only 21, so he has plenty of time to get to Queens. At this point, he is better off getting more

If there is one area where the Mets appear set, it is their infield. The team’s main power threat, Pete Alonso, will once again be manning first base. To his credit, Alonso has worked hard on his defense. When he first came to the Mets, he would frequently be replaced in the late innings for defensive purposes by Dominic Smith, who is now a member of the Washington Nationals after not being tendered a contract by the Mets at the conclusion of the 2022 season.

Second baseman Jeff McNeil won the National League batting title in 2022 and was rewarded with a fouryear contract extension which will pay him $50 million over the next four years. McNeil suffered an offyear in 2021 as he tried to become a power hitter. He wound up neither hitting for average nor belting many home runs. He is at his best when he is content to be a contact hitter.

Shortstop Francisco Lindor had a nice comeback year in 2022 belting 26 home runs and hitting .270 after struggling in 2021, his first year with the Mets. Lindor is in the third year of an eleven-year contract. While the Mets clearly benefit having a premier shortstop, you have to wonder what the future holds for one of their top prospects, shortstop Ronny Mauricio, who enjoyed a terrific spring training. Mauricio hit three booming home runs and played solid defense in Lindor’s stead while he was playing for Team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic.

The only question about the infield going into spring training was “Who will start at third base, veteran Eduardo Escobar or rookie Brett Baty?” The 34-year-old switch-hitting Escobar is in the second year of a twocontinued on page 20

The new Mets 1-2 pitching combo of Max Scherzer, above, and newly acquired Justin Verlander may be the best in the majors, with an astounding six Cy Young awards between them. PHOTOS COURTESY NY METS

Mets 2023

continued from page 18

year contract with the Mets. He struggled for most of the season, but to his credit, he was the Mets’ most productive hitter in September when the rest of the lineup seemed to have bats made of Swiss cheese. Escobar blamed his rough season on family issues which weighed on his mind. He says they have now been resolved.

Brett Baty is the Mets’ brightest hope to play third base since David Wright came up through the organization. Baty is certainly ready to play in the big leagues, but the Mets want him to get more playing time at the AAA level. Sending Baty back down to Syracuse was Buck Showalter’s most difficult decision before the Mets broke camp in Port St. Lucie.

The always reliable Luis Guillorme is back as the jack of all trades utility infielder who can reliably fill in for an injured player or one who needs a day off.

Outfield

The Mets dodged a bullet on the injury front when X-rays revealed Brandon Nimmo only had a sore ankle after pulling up in pain at second base on a hit-and-run play during a spring training game against the Houston Astros. The popular Mets centerfielder signed an eight-year, $162 million contract with the Mets as owner Steve Cohen did not want the fan favorite to leave the team.

What makes Nimmo so popular is he gives maximum effort every minute he is on the field. The flip side of his all-hustle, all the time attitude is the risk of injury which has hurt him

during his career.

It is not hyperbole to write the Mets season went south in September when rightfielder Starling Marte was hit in the hand from a fastball during a game with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He missed the rest of the regular season although he did return for the Wild Card Series. It was clear he was not the same player. Apparently, his right hand wasn’t the only area of discomfort for him. In November he underwent groin surgery. Hopefully, his physical maladies are behind him, and he can regain the form which made him an All-Star in 2022.

Mark Canha’s 2022 statistics (.266 batting average, 13 HRs) mask the fact he is a disciplined hitter who makes pitchers work by rarely swinging at bad pitches. The Mets leftfielder has a strong arm and covers a lot of ground in the outfield on balls hit in the gap. He is also a go-to guy in the clubhouse for reporters needing a quote.

The Mets signed veteran outfielder Tommy Pham as a free agent during the winter. Pham has always been a tough out, especially when he played for the St. Louis Cardinals. He did not have a good spring training, but one should not read too much into that.

Billy Eppler wisely signed veteran outfielder Tim Locastro to a minor league contract during the winter. Locastro played very well for the Yankees as a bench player until injuries cost his roster spot. He is a good contact hitter, can steal a base and is a defensive standout.

Designated Hitter

This was a troublesome area for the Mets in 2022 as they got little production from Dominic Smith and JD Davis. Mets GM Billy Eppler was determined to get rid of Davis in the worst way

at the July 31 trade deadline, and that is exactly what happened. He traded Davis and three minor leaguers to the San Francisco Giants for Darin Ruf, who was a good player for the Phillies not long ago. Ruf was far worse than Davis and gave nothing but outs for the Mets as his .155 batting average attests. Any hopes for signs of a comeback by the 36-year-old Ruf were put on hold thanks to an arthritic wrist. On Monday, the Mets put up the white flag on Ruf and designated him for assignment.

Daniel Vogelbach was another Eppler acquisition in late July. Vogelbach lost a lot of weight during the off-season, but he is still a very limited player who cannot play a position on the field. He has power and a good eye at the plate which results in pitchers issuing many walks to him. He needs to boost his batting average, however, if he is to remain the Mets’ DH.

A more useful option for the Mets is another highly touted prospect in their organization, outfielder Mark Vientos. He can provide needed outfield depth and has shown he can handle big league pitching. Like Brett Baty, Francisco Alvarez and Ronny Mauricio, Vientos will begin the season in central New York State. He should not be spending much time there.

Outlook

There is no point in sugarcoating things. The loss of Edwin Diaz is a major blow, and the Mets did little to improve their offense from last season.

Until proven otherwise, the Atlanta Braves are still the best team in the National League East. To quote wrestling legend Ric Flair, “In order to be the man, you have to beat the man!” The Mets have yet to prove they can beat the Braves when the money is on the line.

The Philadelphia Phillies turned their season around when they replaced Joe Girardi with Rob Thomson as their manager last June. They were the hottest team in the National League when the playoffs rolled around and gave the Houston Astros all they could handle in the World Series.

Phillies General Manager Dave Dombrowski was not content to rest on his laurels. He traded for relief pitcher Gregory Soto, who may be for the Phillies what Edwin Diaz was for the Mets. He signed arguably the best free agent player, shortstop Trea Turner, whose talents were on full display for Team USA during the recently concluded World Baseball Classic. In addition, he strengthened the Phillies bench by signing infielder Josh Harrison. The Phils did lose a key player during spring training for the year when first baseman Rhys Hoskins tore his ACL.

The Miami Marlins have some exciting young players led by reigning National League Cy Young Award Sandy Alcantara and second baseman Jazz Chisholm. Historically, they have given the Mets fits, but it is doubtful they are ready to compete in the National League East. That probably will not change unless team owner Bruce Sherman starts increasing payroll dramatically. Reportedly, that was the reason Derek Jeter left the organization.

Three years ago, the Washington Nationals were the defending World Series champions. It now feels like three thousand years, given how they have gutted the team.

It is hard for me to picture the Mets finishing ahead of either of their two chief rivals, but it is a long season, and anything can happen. After all, this is the 50th anniversary of Tug McGraw’s famous “Ya gotta believe!” statement. Q

The middle of the Mets lineup will again feature two big bats with first baseman Pete Alonso, left, and shortstop Francisco Lindor. PHOTOS COURTESY NY METS

Egg-cellent time had in HB

Four thousand Easter eggs were laid at the PS 207 park on Sunday and hundreds of kids hunted for them and took part in other festive fun.

The third annual event was put on by the Howard Beach Dads along with the community service group Team Up 2 Clean Up with

Cheers for female leaders in Queens

Eleven women were honored on Friday at Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar’s Toast to the Great Women of Queens awards ceremony at her Woodhaven office.

Those honored were Connie Altamirano, Sherry Algredo, Christine Barbour, Vedo Basdeo, Elizabeth De La Cruz, Sookranie Dhanpat, Teresa Donahue, Janet Forte, Kerrie Hansen, Catherine Murawski and Simone Zito.

help from dozens of sponsors and volunteers. Seventeen lucky winners went home with gift baskets and 400 gift bags were given out.

Mayor Adams made a surprise appearance. “Your energy and spirit cascades out throughout the City,” Adams said at the event. “You do so much.”

Rajkumar said the women uplift and inspire the community. “They are the voice of my district, uniting us all for the common good,” she said in a statement.

Deirdre Bardolf

In more springtime fun, the HB Dads group is planning its annual lemonade stand route. —

— Deirdre Bardolf

PHOTO COURTESY MELISSA ORLANDO-ROMERO

BID hypes hot tamales

For business owners everywhere, there is no predicting what hurdle might come next. Many are still working to get back on their feet following the pandemic and trying to draw customers in, especially on Jamaica Avenue in Woodhaven, a commercial strip rich with history, culture and cuisine.

At La Comadre, a family-owned and operated Mexican restaurant, business was finally picking up but then the nearby 75 St-Elderts Lane subway station closed for construction and will be until August. Guadalupe Flores, far left, works there with her siblings and parents. She said losing that traf-

fic has cut into 20 to 40 percent of their profits.

At Cancun Cafe, co-owner Ernestino Ponce, third from right at right, says they are still paying back the building owner from when they had no business during the lockdowns. “We didn’t even sell one taco, one single item,” he recalled.

So the businesses were happy to partner with the Woodhaven Business Improvement District last week to highlight one of their specialties: tamales. The event celebrated National Tamale Day and promoted the BID’s campaign to shop local. El Puerto Mexicano’s take on the Mexican delica-

cy, a corn-based dough steamed with fillings, are seen above. Numerous businesses participated as well as the Queens Chamber of Commerce and Community Board 9.

BID President John Perricone said it is part of a long-term plan to turn Jamaica Avenue into a destination.

“It’s often difficult for them to take some time for resources that may benefit them,” said Perricone of the small businesses. “So by us going to the business and giving them the opportunity to showcase what they have, for us it solves a problem.”

—

Deirdre Bardolf

PHOTOS BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF

Bills would permit transit worker strikes

Bus, subway workers would get same rights as LIRR and MetroNorth workers

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The sponsors of bills in Albany that would allow city bus and subway workers to strike were stating their case on Tuesday as the Legislature and Gov. Hochul continue to close in on Saturday’s budget deadline.

State Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) and Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner (D-Bronx) have filed bills that would exempt such workers from the Taylor Law, which makes it illegal for many public employes in the state to go on strike, even after a contract expires.

They say their bills would set the employees up under similar guidelines that govern Long Island Rail Road and MetroNorth workers, who are covered under the federal Railway Labor Act of 1926, and who are permitted to strike if contract negotiations pass through a number of required processes.

Ramos on Tuesday tweeted a photo of herself with TWU leaders.

“I’m so proud to champion their fight to amend the Taylor Law, and empower TWU Local 100 with the ability to strike for the

contract they deserve,” Ramos wrote. She said in the TWU press release announcing the bill that “a strong contract for workers will mean better service.”

Ramos’ bill, S5785, can be viewed online at bit.ly/3zgN8wz. State Sen. John Liu (D-Bayside) is a co-sponsor.

No co-sponsors of Joyner’s companion bill, A5878, were yet listed on the Assembly website as of Wednesday.

“The right to strike for NYC Transit workers is a matter of equity,” TWU International President John Samuelsen said in a statement from the union on March 16. “Prohibition against striking for inner city transit workers, while our suburban counterparts can legally withhold work, is grossly unfair, grossly inequitable.”

Local 100 President Richard Davis also thanked Ramos.

“This is a democracy,” Davis said. “Working men and women should have the right to withhold their labor so they can secure good wages and provide for their families as best as they can. It’s that simple.”

Union leaders said the change is particular-

ly important in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Janus decision in 2018, which weakened the power of organized labor by allowing some workers to avoid paying dues.

The amendment also would apply to transit workers at the Upstate Transportation Authority, including the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority, the Rochester-Genesee Regional Transportation Authority, the Capital District Transportation Authority and the Central New York Regional Transportation Authority.

The Taylor Law is explicit, and the potential consequences are severe.

Local 100 last walked out Dec. 20 to 22 in 2005. Then-TWU President Roger Toussaint was fined and briefly jailed. Workers were docked two days pay for every day missed. The union was fined and temporarily lost the right to automatically deduct union dues from workers’ paychecks,

Charlton D’souza, president of the commuter advocacy group Passengers United, said the group support the bills.

“Of course, a strike has to be a last resort,” D’souza told the Chronicle. “But we believe they have the same right to strike as MetroNorth or Amtrak workers.”

He said that was never made more clear than during the pandemic, when more than 100 MTA employees died with Covid-19. He also referenced existing conditions that include attacks on workers.

“The MTA is so bad right now,” D’souza said.

But he also expressed doubt as to the amount of support the Ramos-Joyner bills have in the Capitol, and whether Ramos and the union are pushing the bills for show.

MTA officials declined to comment for this story.

Mayor Adams’ press office did not respond to multiple requests for comment. Gov. Hochul’s office responded with a general comment on reaching a budget deal. Q

“The right to strike for NYC Transit workers is a matter of equity.”

— John Samuelsen, president, TWU International

Assemblywoman Latoya Joyner of the Bronx, left, and state Sen. Jessica Ramos of Jackson Heights submitted bills that would allow city bus and subway employees to go on strike.

PHOTO COURTESY NYS ASSEMBLY, LEFT, AND FILE PHOTO

RIP, Exit 5

If you’re going to Atlantic Avenue from points south via the Van Wyck Expressway, you’re gonna need an earlier exit.

As part of its ongoing project to widen the north-south highway that runs to Kennedy Airport, the state Department of Transportation on Monday shut down northbound Exit 5. For good.

Those seeking to reach Atlantic should now get off at Exit 4, Liberty Avenue, and go from there, the DOT says.

The $1.2 billion Van Wyck Expressway Capacity and Access Improvements to JFK Airport project encompasses four miles of the roadway, from the airport to the Kew Gardens Interchange, and includes adding a managed-use lane for commercial and high-occupancy vehicles.

— Peter C. Mastrosimone

Bill clears path for a casino

continued from page 17

allows for accompanying entertainment, retail, recreational, commercial, hotel, convention and community facilities.

Aubry said he named Cohen’s company in the bill in a show of transparency.

“We’re alienating for the purposes of this entity, which is proposing to compete ... for a casino,” he said. “As a part of that alienation, they have committed to certain specific actions relative to the property.

“So from my perspective, I’m not trying to hide anything, cover up anything — if we were doing this to allow open use of it or by a private entity, you still would want to know who it is.”

Naming Cohen’s firm means that were the state Gaming Commission — which is still in the early stages of the request for application process — to award a license for a casino next to Citi Field, only New Green Willets would be allowed to get it.

Asked whether that could pose an issue for the commission, state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven), who chairs the committee on Racing, Gaming, and Wagering, said, “We’ll see.”

“There’s so many moving parts with that process, and it’s a scoring system,”

Addabbo said. Noting the commission is still in the question-and-answer period with potential contenders, he continued, “In June, we’ll have an idea, probably, about the applicants that are going to come forward.”

The bill also says that were construction on a casino fail to start within 15 years, the land would be ceded back to the city. Even if Aubry’s legislation were to pass in the Assembly, a Senate bill would need to match it in order for the alienation to go to Gov. Hochul for her signature.

State Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-East Elmhurst) represents Citi Field and Willets Point; her office said Wednesday that she currently has no plans to introduce an alienation bill for the area. Asked about Aubry’s measure last week, she said, “Clearly, I need to have a conversation with my colleagues to ensure that whatever is introduced reflects our shared goals of prioritizing community input.”

Addabbo agreed. “This is definitely something that will be discussed,” he said. “It’s a process — it’s a landmine, and you got to know where the landmines are. This is a tricky issue.” Q

Blood shortage is still ongoing

The New York Blood Center needs blood donors of all types in order to close the gap during a critical shortage.

Blood is needed for surgery, cancer patients, accident victims and new mothers and babies, among others. Information is available at nybc. org. Upcoming drives include:

• LaGuardia Community College, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 30, at 31-10 Thomson Ave. in Long Island City;

• Christ the King High School 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the gym on Tuesday, April 4, at 68-02 Metropolitan Ave. in Middle Village;

• Knights of Columbus Council 5103, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Friday, April 7, at 84-05 78 Ave. in Ridgewood;

• Commonpoint Queens, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 9, at 67-09 108 St. in Forest Hills;

• The Shops at Atlas Park, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 8 and 29, at 8000 Cooper Avenue in Glendale; and

• Hemja Welfare Society, noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 9, in the mobile collection site at 37th Road and 74th Street in Jackson Heights. Q

Steve Cohen’s vision for a casino next to Citi Field just got one step closer to a reality.

by Naeisha Rose

Spring has arrived and as parents try to come up with ideas on how to keep their kids occupied in the warmer weather, especially as a school break approaches, the Alley Pond Environmental Center may be just the place to find fun and educational activities.

APEC, located at 224-65 76 Ave. in Oakland Gardens, first has an afterschool course that begins next week. The Unplugged Nature Club, will be held outdoors on April 5, 19 and 26 from 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. for kids

ages 6 to 9. The three-class series costs $72 per child.

“We will focus on animals and their habitats,” said APEC educator Karen Donahue. “The April session will focus on birds.”

Children will take a nature walk with field guides to search for birds’ nests and learn how to identify different birds, Donahue told the Chronicle.

“We have various bird eggs and nests to show the children,” Donahue said. “In April, I’m sure that we will see the red-winged blackbirds, the American robins, the woodpeckers and the warblers.”

The kids will learn the process the birds use to build nests, according to Donahue. “Along with that we have some fun informational books appropriate for their age and we will be playing some games that will link

to the lesson.”

For kids ages 9 to 12, there will be a Vet Tech 101 program on April 11 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. that focuses on animal handling, according to APEC upper-grade coordinator Erica Chow, who works with older kids. There will also be an I Want to Be a Vet session the following day for children ages 6 to 8 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

“Usually when there are visitors to the center they are restricted only to meeting animals up close and petting; animal handling takes quite some time,” Chow told the Chronicle. “The Vet Tech series focuses a little bit more about technical skills that technicians will do, what they do in a clinic, their responsibilities there and what it means to be a vet.”

continued on page 27

King Crossword Puzzle

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

Rocker Ian’s Anthrax is a sound, not a poison

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Herbert Rosenfeld, age 22, married Barbara Haar, 20, of Kew Gardens Hills in 1963. Their first child, Scott Ian, was born on Dec. 31, 1963. A brother, Jason, came along three years later. The family lived at 23-35 Bell Blvd. in Bayside.

After witnessing a Kiss concert in 1977, Scott was hooked and knew he wanted to be a musician. He changed his name to Scott Ian, dropping his last name, and became a rhythm guitarist.

He co-founded the heavy metal group Anthrax with his friend from Bayside High School Dan Lilker. The band released 11 studio albums from 1984 through 2016. Their sales peaked in 1993 with “Sound of White Noise.” As a huge fan of Stephen

King, Ian wrote songs inspired by him. He married Marjorie Cynthia Ginsburg in 1987. Things didn’t work out, but after his divorce he married Pearl Aday, daughter of singer Meat Loaf, in 2011. They had a child and are very happy together. Today Ian co-owns a bar, Dead Man’s Hand, in Las Vegas and still plays his music. Q

The childhood home of Scott Ian, the co-founder of thrash metal band Anthrax, at 23-35 Bell Blvd., Apt. 2A, in Bayside, as it looks today. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET VIA WIKIPEDIA / ZACH PETERSEN

Artists to honor Satchmo at Kupferberg Center

by Michael Gannon senior news editor

Three performers who have benefited from Louis Armstrong’s legacy will headline a tribute to the late jazz legend and Corona resident in Flushing on April 1. The performance is scheduled for 8 p.m. at Kupferberg Center for the Arts on the campus of Queens College. It is sponsored by the Louis Armstrong House Museum & Archives in Corona, and is part of the organization’s Armstrong Now initiative.

Selections will include modern and reimagined interpretations of some of Armstrong’s greatest works.

The program will he headlined by pianist Matthew Whitaker, drummer Ulysses Owens Jr. and dancer Alain “Hurrikane” Lauture. All three are past or present Armstrong Now artists-in-residence.

Other performers will include Liany Mateo on bass, percussionist Ivan Llanes, drummer Johnny Steele, guitarist Marcos Robinson, dancer Gianna Theodore and vocalist Milton Suggs.

Lauture, who also is a dance instructor with the Ailey Extension of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, told the Chronicle this week that everything for his performance was just about ready.

“Everything is choreographed,” he said.

“We just have to practice on the stage we’ll be using.” He has performed with Whitaker before, including at Lincoln Center in Manhattan, as both received their artist-in-residence appointments in the same year.

“You write a letter and they choose from among the many who apply,” he said.

Owens, who also is an accomplished producer, just returned from a European concert tour, has performed on Grammyaward winning albums. He is a faculty member in the jazz studies program at the famed Juilliard School, which he attended as a student. He also teaches music business courses.

Whitaker received his first keyboard at

age 3 and taught himself to play the organ at 9. Aside from Lincoln Center he has performed at the Apollo Theater, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC, and the Newport, Monterey and Telluride jazz festivals. He has played in more than a dozen countries.

Lauture said teaching comes more naturally to him when he thinks less about instructing than about sharing his love of dance with his students.

He first fell in love with the art while majoring in visual communications in college. Like an aspiring baseball player can dream of one day joining the Mets, he said dancers dream of joining groups like Alvin Ailey.

“It’s still dream,” he said.

Tickets are $25, and can be purchased at kupferbergcenter.org; or by calling the box office at (718) 793-8080 Tuesday through Saturday. The box office also is open one hour prior to all events.

The center is located at 153-49 Reeves Ave. near the Horace Harding Expressway. Parking is available on site.

All venues at the center are accessible.

Masks are no longer required. The center’s Covid recommendations and other information can be found online at kupferbergcenter.org. Q

Youths can enjoy spring break at Alley Pond center

continued from page 25

Some of the animals will include guinea pigs, chinchillas, birds, turtles, lizards and other reptiles.

“They will understand how the animal moves and how to do some physical exams, like checking the ears and the eyes,” Chow said. “They will learn how to get some basic information from a vet on basic diagnostics, such as weight and fur condition.”

The latter program will center more on

Crossword Answers

pet ownership and responsibilities, according to Chow. They will also learn about many aspects of veterinary care, including the special needs of a variety of APEC’s animal ambassadors, which they will get to observe up close, according to alleypond.org.

“The goal of the class is to learn how to be a more responsible caretaker,” she said. “Many times people see an exotic animal like a rabbit and they just jump in to have one of the pets, but it takes more work than a traditional cat or dog, which leads to the reality of people releasing their pets ... If they want to have a profession taking care of animals they will learn about careers they can have in the future.”

Vet Tech costs $32 per child and I Want to Be a Vet costs $20.

On April 13, from 1 to 2 p.m., teens will get to make necklaces, earrings, rings and other jewelry using colorful glass and flowerthemed accessories with all the material provided from jeweler Naomi Rabinowitz for $28 per person.

“Naomi will lead the class,” Donahue said. “She has been here before for many workshops, but not for teens. We had a few parents asking about the program for

During spring break, parents can take their kids to the Alley Pond Environmental Center to learn about animal handling and more. On the cover: Children will have a chance to explore the environment to search for birds’ nests.

their teenagers.”

Rabinowitz will teach those teens how to craft jewelry and then she will make the pieces using fire, according to the APEC educator. Parents will be given a date as to when to pick up the pieces at the center’s workshop. APEC will also host programs about rob-

ins, bugs and flower crafting. There will also be a reading and an Animal Jeopardy Game from April 11 to 13. If you’re interested in any of APEC’s programs visit alleypond.org/ after-school--vacation-day-programs.

“Spaces are limited, but you can register right now,” Donahue added. Q

Dancer Alain Lauture, left, pianist Matthew Whitaker and drummer Ulysses Owens Jr. will headline a tribute to Louis Armstrong at the Kupferberg Center for the Arts at Queens College on April 1. PHOTOS BY STEEZY STDIOS, LEFT, CHRIS DRUKKERS AND COURTESY PHOTO.

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MPACIFIC 2435 LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 03/06/2023. Offi ce loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 48-02 25th Avenue, Suite 400, Astoria, NY 11103. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of NEVSKY REALTY LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/31/2019. 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: OLGA SHUBINA, 88-10 34TH AVE, APT. 2E, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME

COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET SECURITIZATION TRUST SERIES

2006-A9CB MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-I, Plaintiff, Against CAROLYNN CITRIN, ET AL.

QML Meters LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 1/24/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Queens Medallion Leasing, 21-03 44th Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101. General Purpose

Notice of Formation of United 45 Holding LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/08/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: TSZ LEONG CHEUNG, 43-45 160TH STREET, FLUSHING, NY, 11358. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Vidya & Keran Khedna Housing LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 2/13/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 109-20 117th St., South Ozone Park, NY 11420. General Purpose

WCA TRADING LLC. Art. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 02/21/2023. Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of WCA TRADING LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to WCA TRADING LLC, 89-06 Springfi eld Blvd., Queens Village, NY 11427. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 11/23/2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court located at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, NY, on 4/14/2023 at 11:00AM, premises known as 77-13 Ditmars Blvd., Unit 1 a/k/a Unit A-1, East Elmhurst, New York 11370, And Described As Follows: ALL that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Unit Known As Apartment No. A-1 In The Building Known As And By The Street Number, 77-13 Ditmars Boulevard, Jackson Hts., In The Borough And County Of Queens, City And State Of New York. Together with an undivided .1384 percent interest appurtenant to the apartment unit in common elements of the property (herein after called the “common elements”). Block 973 Lot 1009 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $471,240.48 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index #710963/2015 Stephanie S. Goldstone, Esq., Referee. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway, LLC, 10 Midland Avenue, Suite 205, Port Chester, NY 10573 Dated: 12/5/2022 File Number: 14-308671 LD

3037 BELLE PROPERTIES

LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 02/13/23. Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 286 Crabapple Road, Manhasset, NY 11030. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS CERTIFICATE TRUSTEE OF BOSCO CREDIT II TRUST SERIES 2010-1, Plaintiff, Against PRADIP SAHA, ET AL. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale, duly entered 05/23/2022, I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction, on the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court located at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, NY on 4/28/2023 at 12:00PM, premises known as 90-34 191st Street, Hollis, NY 11423, And Described As Follows: 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 10446 Lot 29 The approximate amount of the current Judgment lien is $266,249.74 plus interest and costs. The Premises will be sold subject to provisions of the aforesaid Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale; Index # 719792/2021 If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagees attorney. Gerald Chiariello, Esq., Referee. Leopold & Associates, PLLC, 80 Business Park Drive, Suite 110, Armonk, NY 10504

Dated: 12/21/2022 File Number: 6957747 LD

Notice of Formation of AIRA ASSETS LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with SSNY on 02/22/2023. Offi ce location: QUEENS County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 10 WEST 46TH STREET 12TH FLOOR, NEW YORK, NY, UNITED STATES, 10036 Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY MTGLQ INVESTORS, L.P., Plaintiff

against

MICHAEL

WILLIAMS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered June 6, 2022, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at steps of Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on April 14, 2023 at 11:45 AM. Premises known as 133-14 146th Street, Jamaica, NY 11436. Block 12091 Lot 7. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Queens, County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $559,996.46 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 706699/2021. Cash will not be accepted at the sale. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee.

Joseph Defelice, Esq., Referee

3000-000376

Notice of Formation of ATALIE LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/12/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: SONIA ROCCO, 13702 WHITELAW STREET, OZONE PARK, NY 11417. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

BIGGIE’S JEWELRY LLC

Articles of Org. fi led NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 1/16/23. Offi ce in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Alex Musheyev 26104B Langston Ave., Glen Oaks, NY 11004. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY

WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, DOING BUSINESS AS CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR BCAT

2015-13BTT, Plaintiff against RASEL PETTER, et al

Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 31, 2019, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at steps of Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on April 28, 2023 at 10:15 AM. Premises known as 99-23 215th Street, Queens Village, NY 11429. Block 11089

Lot 7. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $512,495.47 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led Judgment Index No 710013/2018. Cash will not be accepted at the sale. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certifi ed bank check made payable to the referee. Janet L. Brown, Esq., Referee 2296-001049

BULLY DRIVELINE PARTS LLC.

Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 09/23/22. Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Joseph, Terracciano & Lynam, LLP, 2 Roosevelt Avenue, Suite 200, Syosset, NY 11791.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of COMPLIANCE SERVICES CONSULTANTS LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/07/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 8046 161ST ST., JAMAICA, NY, 11432. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Legal Notices Legal Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS Index No. 710658/2022 Date Filed: 3/10/2023 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates Queens County as the Place of Trial Designation of Venue is based upon the situs of the Subject Property Subject Property: 129-34 155th Street a/k/a 12934 155th Street, Jamaica, NY 11434. U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee for MASTR Asset-Backed Securities Trust 2005-FRE1 Mortgage PassThrough Certifi cates, Series 2005-FRE1, Plaintiff, -against- Ann Marie Hurgus a/k/a Ann Marie A. Hurgus, if she be living or if she be dead, her spouses, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to Plaintiff; City of New York Environmental Control Board; City of New York Parking Violations Bureau; U.S. Bank National Association, as Trustee under Pooling and Servicing Agreement dated November 1, 2005 MASTR Asset-Backed Securities Trust 2005-FRE1 Mortgage Pass-Through Certifi cates, Series 2005FRE1; State of New York “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fi ctitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the Subject Property described in the Complaint, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York) in the event the United States of America is made a party defendant, the time to answer for the said United States of America shall not expire until sixty (60) days after the service of the Summons; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Tracy Catapano-Fox, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Queens County, entered March 8, 2023 and fi led with the complaint and other papers in the Queens County Clerk’s Offi ce. THE OBJECT OF THE ACTION is to foreclose a mortgage recorded on August 22, 2005 at CRFN 2005000469726, in the Public Records of the County of Queens, State of New York, covering premises known as 129-34 155th Street a/k/a 12934 155th Street, Jamaica, NY 11434 a/k/a Block 12259, Lot 57, part of Old Lot 54. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who fi led this foreclosure proceeding against you and fi ling the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending payment to the mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: July 22, 2022 Rochester, NY, LOGS Legal Group LLP By: Frank M. Cassara, Esq., Attorney for Plaintiff, 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard, Rochester, New York 14624 Telephone: (585) 247-9000#100251

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

Belle Harbor, 220 Beach 117 St, #2. 1 BR, newly renov, $2,100/ mo. Laundry in bldg. All SS appli, dishwasher, ceiling fans, pvt terr, 1 block to the beach. Avail Now! Call Stellina Napolitano, 646-372-7145.Capri Jet Realty

Gravesend, 2351 82 St., #LL. 2 BR/1 bath apt. $2,200/mo. open kitchen, new stove, full bath. Heat & hot water inc. Avail NOW. Call Michael Bifalco, 917-704-5147.

Capri Jet Realty

Howard Beach, sunny 1 BR, CAC, utils incl. No pets. $1,500/mo. Call 718-848-6431

Williamsburg, 216 N 6th St, #3. 2 BR w/balcony. $5,600/mo. NO FEE! Newly renov, new doors, W/D in unit, dishwasher, SS appli, Pets OK. Avail Now. Call Michael Bifalco, 917-704-5147, Capri Jet Realty

Open House

Howard Beach/Lindenwood/ Fairfield Arms, Sun 4/2, 12pm-1pm, 151-20 88 St. (HighRise). Agent Pam will be on the lobby. Unit 4C-Lg 2 BR, 2 baths. Reduced $228K. Unit 2D, 3 BRs converted from 2 BRs, 2 full baths. Reduced $259K. Unit 5D, 2 BR, 2 baths, needs TLC, 5th fl. Reduced $225K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sat 4/1, 1-3:00pm, 164-18 90 St. 40x100, Hi-Ranch, unique 5 BRs, 2 full baths, 3 BRs, 1 bath, top flr & 2 BRs on walk-in level, new kit, HW flrs & new baths. Cement & pavers front & back. Full 1 car gar, sep ent to walk-in. Reduced $965K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Ozone Park, Sat 4/1, 12pm-2pm, 94-22 Magnolia Court. Beautiful 3 BR, 2 bath duplex condo in gated community. W/D, pvt parking spot, SS appli, HW fls, new renov baths, terr, storage unit. Mint AAA.

Reduced $575. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Legal Notices

Notice of Formation of Soho City LLC. Articles of Org. fi led with Sec’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/27/16. Offi ce location is Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 10712 90th St, Ozone Park NY 11417. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Daisuke Osanai Dental, PLLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 2/15/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 4705 Center Blvd., apt. PH1, Long Island City, NY 11109. Purpose: Dentistry

Notice of Formation of DAVIS LEGACY 2023 LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/28/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: FLOYD DAVIS, 11843 228TH ST., CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, NY, 11411. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Downstate Adult Health NP, PLLC. Art. of Org. fi led Sec’y of State (SSNY) 3/2/23. Offi ce location: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 1836 Norman Street, Ridgewood, NY 11385.

Purpose: practice the profession of nurse practitioner in adult health.

Notice of Formation of EAT ME NYC JEWELRY LLC Arts. of Org. fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/13/23. Offi ce location: Queens County. Princ. offi ce of LLC: 33-46 160th St., Flushing, NY 11358. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Sara Klimavicius, Attn: Sara Klimavicius at the princ. offi ce of the LLC. Purpose: Designing, carving, casting, manufacture, sale and distribution of jewelry.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF Queens, SC Park Lane II, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. Wali Ahmed, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to an Order Confi rming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 22, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the outside steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY on April 28, 2023 at 11:15 a.m., premises known as 35-20 Leverich Street, Unit #B226, Jackson Heights, NY 11372. 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 1270 and Lot 1111 together with an undivided 0.6091 percent interest in the Common Elements. Approximate amount of judgment is $647,245.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led Judgment Index # 724727/2020. 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. Austin I. Idehen, Esq., Referee, Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 105, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Notice of Formation of GLOBALPRIMEENTERPRISESLLC

Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/19/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RAMON CANDO, 87-30 JUSTICE AVENUE, APT 6G, ELMHURST, NY 11373.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of HATS, HORSES AND HOLLYWOOD LLC Arts. of Org. fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/09/23.

Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to c/o Law Offi ces of Anthony S. Cannatella, 53 Orchard St., Manhasset, NY 11030.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS WITH NOTICE Supreme Court of New York, Queens County. U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR TRUMAN 2021 SC9 TITLE TRUST, Plaintiff, -againstTHE UNKNOWN HEIRS-AT-LAW, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming, under, by or through the decedents BLOSSOM MEDLEY and BERYL BARHAM, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein; LLOYD ALLEN; FRANK ALLEN; AYESHIA HILLARD; AUDIE ROBINSON; WAYNE MEDLEY; HORTELL BARHAM; ANDREW BARHAM; DEAN O. BARHAM; STATE OF NEW YORK; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (EASTERN DISTRICT); CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE TAX COMPLIANCE DIVISION; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; TIFFANY MILES; DWAIN MEDLEY; TEVIN MEDLEY; “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10” inclusive the names of the ten last name Defendants being fictitious, real names unknown to the Plaintiff, the parties intended being persons or corporations having an interest in, or tenants or persons in possession of, portions of the mortgaged premises described in the Complaint, Defendants Index No. 719213/2019.

Mortgaged Premises: 146-28 220th Street Springfield Gardens, NY 11413 Block: 13453 Lot: 116. To The Above Named Defendant(s): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance upon the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the date of service or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York. If you fail to so appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT. THE OBJECT of the above-entitled action is to foreclose the following: (a) a mortgage bearing date December 20, 1999 given by Blossom Medley and Catris Allen (deceased) to Roslyn National Mortgage Corporation to secure the sum of $95,000.00 and recorded in Reel 5491 at Page 1 in the office of the County Clerk/ City Register of Queens County on January 28, 2000 and which mortgage was assigned to Chase Mortgage Company as evidenced by written instrument dated June 1, 2000 and recorded in Reel 5856 at Page 2008 in the office of the County Clerk/City Register of Queens County on April 26, 2001; and (b) a mortgage bearing date April 11, 2005 given by Blossom Medley and Catris Allen (deceased) to JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA to secure the sum of $4,970.74 and recorded in CRFN: 2005000283569 in the office of the County Clerk/City Register of Queens County on May 16, 2005; and (c) a consolidation, extension and modification agreement bearing date April 11, 2005 given by Blossom Medley and Catris Allen (deceased) to JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA and recorded in CRFN: 2005000283571 in the office of the County Clerk/City Register of Queens County on May 16, 2005 and which agreement by its terms consolidated both mortgages in (a) and (b) to form a single lien in the amount of $95,000.00 and which mortgages as consolidated were assigned to the Plaintiff herein as evidenced by written instrument dated April 1, 2019 and recorded with the Queens County Clerk/ City Register on April 9, 2019 in CRFN 2019000112349 covering the premises described as follows: 146-28 220th Street, Springfield Gardens, New York 11413. The relief sought in the within action is final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. The Plaintiff makes no personal claim against any Defendants in this action. Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX NO. 713526/2020

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property Mortgaged Premises: 130-21 147TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11436 Block: 12110, Lot: 24 & 25 THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE FOR JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF POPULAR ABS, INC. MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2006-C, Plaintiff, vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specifi c lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; SYLVIA SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; DARNELL SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; KENNY SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; CAROLYN SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; KAYLA SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; LISA SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; KELLY SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; JAHIHYME SINCLAIR AKA J.R.S., AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; MALCOLM BOYD, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; LAI-SHEK SINCLAIR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR, if living, and if she/ he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specifi c lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; DOMINIQUE BOYD, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DOROTHY SINCLAIR A/K/A DOROTHY E. SINCLAIR; ATLANTIC CREDIT & FINANCE INC.; MIDLAND FUNDING LLC; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A.; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC.; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; SHATASIA BROWN, “JOHN DOE #2” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last eleven names being fi ctitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a defi ciency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $247,000.00 and interest, recorded on December 17, 2004, in CRFN 2004000777162, of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York, covering premises known as 130-21 147TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11436. The relief sought in the within action is a fi nal judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who fi led this foreclosure proceeding against you and fi ling the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: March 15, 2023 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, Matthew Rothstein, Esq., 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

THE BROOKLYN UNION GAS COMPANY d/b/a NATIONAL GRID NY

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by The Brooklyn Union Gas Company d/b/a National Grid NY (“Company”) that it has fi led with the New York State Public Service Commission (“PSC”) tariff revisions to its Schedule for Gas Service, PSC No. 12 – GAS, to become effective, on a temporary basis, April 1, 2023.

S.C. No. 1A, 17-1A – Residential Non-Heating Service

S.C.

1AR, 17-1AR Residential Non-Heating Service

S.C. No. 1B-DG, 17-1B-DG – Distributed Generation

S.C. No. 1B, 17-1B – Residential Heating Service

S.C. No. 1BR, 17-1BR-Residential Heating Service

S.C. No. 2-1, 17-2-1 – Non-Residential Non-Heating Service

S.C. No. 2-2, 17-2-2 – Non-Residential Heating Service

S.C. No. 3, 17-3 – Multi-Family Service

S.C. 4A, 17-4A – High Load Factor

S.C. 4A-CNG, 17-4A-CNG – Compressed Natural Gas

S.C. 4B, 17-4B – Year Round Air Conditioning Service

These revisions have been filed in compliance with the Commission’s Order issued August 12, 2021 in Case 19-G-0309. The table below compares the Company’s current rates (prior to April 1, 2023) to rates effective April 1, 2023 by service classification. Effective April 1, 2023, $2.5 million has been removed from base delivery rates to be collected through the ‘Rate Adjustment Clause’. The Rate Adjustment Cla use is a separate surcharge that will be included in the Delivery Rate Adjustment line on customers’ bills. S.C.

7, 17-7 – Seasonal Off-Peak Service

S.C. 21, 17-21 – Rate 1 – Less than 1MW

S.C. 21, 17-21 – Rate 2 – Equal to or greater than 1 MW but less than 5 MW

Monthly usage Current Rates 04/01/23 First 10 therms or less $333.14 $333.14

Over 10 therms, per therm (Apr – Oct) $0.1011 $0.1058

Over 10 therms, per therm (Nov – Mar) $0.1289 $0.1349

S.C. 21, 17-21 – Rate 3 – Equal to or greater than 5 MW but less than 50 MW

No change for the delivery rates for S.C. 22 & 18-22 – Non-Firm Demand Response Sales and Transportation Service.

These revisions have been fi led in compliance with the Commission’s Order issued August 12, 2021 in Case 19-G-0309. Copies of the proposed revisions are available for public inspection and can be obtained on the Company’s website at https://www.nationalgridus.com/NY-Home/Bills-Meters-and-Rates/ or the PSC’s website (dps.ny.gov).

KEYSPAN GAS EAST CORPORATION d/b/a NATIONAL GRID

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by KeySpan Gas East Corporation d/b/a National Grid (“Company”) that it has fi led with the New York State Public Service Commission (“Commission”) proposed tariff revisions to its Schedule for Gas Service, PSC No.1 – GAS, to become effective, on a temporary basis, April 1, 2023. These revisions have been fi led in compliance with the Commission’s Order issued August 12, 2021 in Case 19-G-0310. The table below compares the Company’s current rates (prior to April 1, 2023) to rates effective April 1, 2023 by service classification. Effective April 1, 2023, $2.5 million has been removed from base delivery rates to be collected through the ‘Rate Adjustment Clause’. The Rate Adjustment Clause is a separate surcharge that will be included in the Delivery Rate Adjustment line on customers’ bills.

S.C. No. 1A, 5-1A – Residential Non-Heating Service

S.C. No. 1AR, 5-1AR – Residential Non-Heating Service

Monthly usage Current Rates 04/01/23

S.C No. 15, 5-15 – High Load Factor Service

Monthly usage Current Rates 04/01/23 First 10 therms or less $153.35 $153.35

S.C. No. 1B, 5-1B – Residential Heating Service

1BR, 5-1BR – Residential Heating Service

S.C. No. 2-A, 5-2A – Non-Residential Non-Heating Service

S.C. No. 16, 5-16 – Year-Round Space Conditioning Service

Monthly usage Current Rates 04/01/23

S.C. No. 2-B, 5-2B – Non-Residential Heating Service

S.C. 17 – Baseload Distributed Generation – Rate 1 – Less than 1MW

Monthly usage Current Rates 04/01/23

therm (Apr – Oct) $0.1506 $0.1517

Over 10 therms, per therm (Nov – Mar) $0.1934 $0.1949

S.C. 17 – Baseload Distributed Generation – Rate 2 – Equal to or greater than 1 MW but less than 5 MW

Monthly usage Current Rates 04/01/23

First 10 therms or less $328.22 $328.22

Over 10 therms, per therm (Apr – Oct) $0.1506 $0.1517

Over 10 therms, per therm (Nov – Mar) $0.1934 $0.1949

S.C. 17 – Baseload Distributed Generation – Rate 3 – Equal to or greater than 5 MW but less than 50 MW

3, 5-3 – Multi-Family Service

S.C. 9, 5-9 – Uncompressed Natural Gas Vehicle Service

Monthly usage Current Rates 04/01/23

First 10 therms or less $949.35 $949.35

Over 10 therms, per therm (Apr – Oct) $0.0373 $0.0376

Over 10 therms, per therm (Nov – Mar) $0.0509 $0.0513

Demand charge per therm of MPDQ $6,252.00 $6,252.00

No change for the delivery rates for S.C. No. 1B-DG, 5-1B-DG – Distributed Genera on & S.C. 18 / 19 – Non-Firm Demand Response Sales and Transporta on Service.

These revisions have been fi led in compliance with the Commission’s Order issued August 12, 2021 in Case 19-G-0310. Copies of the proposed revisions are available for public inspection and can be obtained on the Company’s website at https://www.nationalgridus.com/Long-Island-NY-Home/Bills-Meters-and-Rates/ or the PSC’s website (dps.ny.gov).

Van Brunt

Ave., Jamaica 3 Family + Store w/ Full Basement & Garage in Prime Jamaica! $999,000

69-09 108th St., Unit 506, Forest Hills Newly Renovated Bright 1 BR Apt in Elevator Co-op Building! $349,000

63-109 Saunders St., Unit C11, Rego Park Charming Alcove Studio in Elevator Co-op Building! $205,000

661 Metropolitan Ave., Williamsburg X-LG 6 Family w/ Huge Upside in Prime Williamsburg! $1,725,000

68-07 60th Road, Maspeth Brick 1 Family w/ Backyard & Garage! $760,000

34 Apollo Street, Greenpoint Gorgeous Brick 2 Family w/Full Basement & Backyard! $1,599,000

100 Jackson Street, Williamsburg X-LG Rent-Stabilized 6 Family w/Huge Upside! $1,599,000

46 Sutton Street, Greenpoint Renovated Rent-stabilized 6 Family in Prime Greenpoint! $2,450,000

that interest rates are North of 6%, you need us more than ever.

plan/strategy

B SPORTS

Rick will revive Red Storm

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

In one of the worst-kept secrets in recent sports history, last Tuesday St. John’s University hired Rick Pitino to be the head coach of the Red Storm men’s basketball team.

The 70-year-old Pitino, who looks at least 15 years younger, has had countless ups and downs and controversies as a head coach in both the college ranks and the NBA. The St. John’s men’s basketball program has been an afterthought for far too long. It is not surprising St. John’s would want to hire someone who has always been successful when it comes to wins and losses. Under Pitino’s aegis, Iona College, not exactly a bigtime athletic powerhouse, had become a regular in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.

I have no doubt Pitino will restore SJU to the high echelon it regularly enjoyed in the 20th century. He is both a master recruiter and a superb in-game strategist. The question is “At what cost will success come?”

Every St. John’s coach has always promoted the quality education players would receive if they chose to matriculate there, and they made sure they went to class. I realize times have changed, and even colleges with stellar academic reputations, such as Duke and Stanford, are happy to recruit high school players who are only interested in spending a year (two at most) at a “school of higher learning” before jumping

to the professional ranks. I could be wrong, but I don’t think Pitino will take kindly to a St. John’s player who worries about academic success.

A key reason the public was captivated by the surprising success of the Ivy League’s Princeton Tigers in the NCAA Tournament is because their student-athletes actually attend classes and graduate on time in the vast majority of cases.

One story that did not get the attention it should have is St. John’s perplexing decision to fire Pitino’s predecessor, Mike Anderson, with cause. By doing so, SJU is attempting to avoid paying him the remainder of his contract. Anderson immediately filed suit against the school. Considering he was coaching the team in the Big East Tournament just two days earlier, it would appear the St. John’s administration is trying to save costs. Pitino signed a six-year contract and is not coming to Union Turnpike cheaply.

Baby boomer Knicks fans were saddened last week to learn of the passing of the greatest player in the team’s history, the likable and unassuming Willis Reed. I remember chatting with Reed about his days living in Park City Estates in Rego Park. He enjoyed living there because he liked his neighbors and it didn’t have the hustlebustle of Manhattan. It was also a short walk to Lost Battalion Hall, where the Knicks then practiced.

Q

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